She says Ford had no choice but to make an emergency landing, which he did safely.

The statement says Ford is in the hospital receiving care, and his injuries are not life-threatening.

The 72-year-old "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones" actor had just taken off from Santa Monica Municipal Airport when he reported the engine trouble and then crash-landed just short of the runway on the golf course.

In 2001, Dr. Carson was named by CNN and TIME Magazine as one of the nation's 20 foremost physicians and scientists. That same year, he was selected by the Library of Congress as one of 89 "Living Legends" on the occasion of its 200th anniversary. In 2009 the award-winning movie Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story, starring Cuban Gooding, Jr. as Dr. Carson, premiered on TNT and is based on his memoir.

Dr. Carson is president and co-founder of the Carson Scholars Fund, which recognizes young people of all backgrounds for exceptional academic and humanitarian accomplishments. The Fund is currently operating in 50 states and the District of Columbia, having awarded more than $5.6 million to more than 5,600 scholars. The program also establishes Carson Reading Rooms to encourage young students to discover the pleasure of books and the true power of learning.

A VIP reception with Dr. Carson will be held at 8:30 pm in the Myre River Room (VIP tickets are an additional cost). Ticket prices are $45, $32, $20 plus fees. Call the box office at 270-450-4444 or online at www.thecarsoncenter.org.

The show will take place at the Paducah Expo Center beginning Friday from 3-8 p.m.  It will continue on Saturday from 10 a.m. til 8 p.m., and conclude on Sunday from noon til 4 p.m. Admission is five dollars, with children 12 and under admitted free.





The Home and Garden Show is sponsored annually by the Home Builders Association of Western Kentucky.

Deputies have not identified the driver. The investigation continues by the Marshall County Sheriff's Office and the Marshall County Coroner's Office.

Hilbrecht said Thursday the Guard has helped rescue stranded motorists along Interstate 65 and the Western Kentucky Parkway in the Elizabethtown area. Stranded motorists are being taken to a warming center in Elizabethtown.

He says guardsmen are also picking up stranded motorists along I-24 in the Paducah area in western Kentucky.

In Marshall and Hardin counties, guardsmen are helping transport emergency personnel and medical patients.

Gov. Steve Beshear has declared a state of emergency.

Snowplows, road graders, and even National Guard personnel are in action dealing with 12 to 16-inch snowfall along the interstate, and drifts more than two feet high.

Conditions are especially bad eastward from mile marker 27 in Lyon County, where hundreds of stranded cars and semis pose as obstacles for highway crews.

Estimates still indicate it will take several hours of work to make I-24 passable for through traffic. Meanwhile, truck stops, restaurants and parking lots in Cadiz, Metropolis and Marion, Illinois filled to capacity overnight with interrupted travelers.

In Crittenden County, a local state of emergency has been declared with the purpose of keeping people off the roads until they can be cleared.

In many communities, law enforcement officials are being forced to use alternate modes of transportation where standard cruisers cannot drive in the deep snow. 

After Wednesday afternoon's freezing rain and sleet, heavy snow persisted in western Kentucky until it exited the lakes area around 9am, leaving behind 12 inches in Paducah, 15 in Benton and 16 inches in Mayfield. 

A full day of rain on Wednesday meant it was impossible for road crews to prepare roads in advance of the snowfall that began about 4 p.m. CST and continued well into Thursday morning.

Heavy snowfall hindered road clearing efforts and Beshear urged Kentuckians to not travel if possible and to check in on elderly neighbors.

A statewide declaration does not automatically close schools and businesses. Residents should check local media for closing information.

More than a foot of snow has fallen in many parts of Kentucky. In some areas, the snow is so thick that some snow plows have gotten stuck or blocked by stranded vehicles.

Wolfe said Thursday that the snow fell so fast that roads had fresh blankets of snow on them soon after being plowed.

Some roads were blocked by tractor-trailers that jackknifed due to the slick conditions.

Illinois Department of Transportation maps showed roadways in the region were either covered with snow and ice or had patches of snow and ice. The Illinois Secretary of State has closed ten offices due to bad weather and dangerous roads. Those included Anna, Benton, Cairo, Carbondale, Carmi, Harrisburg, Marion, McLeansboro, Metropolis and Vienna.

They are expected to reopen at 8 a.m. Friday.

Keith Todd with Kentucky Transportation says emergency management closed the entire section of I-24 from exit 16 at Reidland to the Tennessee state line. Todd says slow traffic, wrecks and multiple stuck vehicles, including several semis were hampering plows. 

Emergency officials in Marshall County had earlier closed I-24 from mile marker 16 to 24, to give crews a chance to try to clear over a foot of snow today. 

At sunrise, KYTC put three road graders on I-24 at Grand Rivers. Two graders are working eastward toward Cadiz, and one is heading toward Paducah. Please stay off of I-24 this morning to allow crews to work as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Last night, Transportation officials closed the US 45 Ohio River bridge at Brookport because of icing on the bridge deck. The bridge will be closed until further notice. 

Keith Todd with Kentucky Transportation says emergency management closed the entire section of I-24 from exit 16 at Reidland to the Tennessee state line. Todd says slow traffic, wrecks and multiple stuck vehicles, including several semis were hampering plows. 

Emergency officials in Marshall County had earlier closed I-24 from mile marker 16 to 24, to give crews a chance to try to clear over a foot of snow today. 

At sunrise, KYTC put three road graders on I-24 at Grand Rivers. Two graders are working eastward toward Cadiz, and one is heading toward Paducah. Please stay off of I-24 this morning to allow crews to work as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Last night, Transportation officials closed the US 45 Ohio River bridge at Brookport because of icing on the bridge deck. The bridge will be closed until further notice. 

Keith Todd with Kentucky Transportation says emergency management closed the entire section of I-24 from exit 16 at Reidland to the Tennessee state line. Todd says slow traffic, wrecks and multiple stuck vehicles, including several semis were hampering plows. 

Emergency officials in Marshall County had earlier closed I-24 from mile marker 16 to 24, to give crews a chance to try to clear over a foot of snow today. 

At sunrise, KYTC put three road graders on I-24 at Grand Rivers. Two graders are working eastward toward Cadiz, and one is heading toward Paducah. Please stay off of I-24 this morning to allow crews to work as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Last night, Transportation officials closed the US 45 Ohio River bridge at Brookport because of icing on the bridge deck. The bridge will be closed until further notice. 

The bill passed the Republican-controlled state Senate 35-0. Then the Legislative Research Commission estimated it would cost the Department of Public Health about $500,000 every two years to test for the disease. Now some House lawmakers are concerned about the cost.

Krabbe disease occurs in about 1 out of every 100,000 people. Kentucky averages 60,000 births each year.

McConnell says "refusing to go along" will give the courts time to figure out if it's legal, and would give Congress more time to fight back.

The rule is expected to be final this summer. McConnell has long vowed to try to block the rules because of their toll on the coal industry.

Meanwhile, the EPA has requested $3.5 million in its budget to hire more lawyers to defend them.

During the search, deputies said they located approximately ¾ pound of methamphetamine with a street value of $34,000. Detectives also found five firearms, two of them loaded. A small amount of Lortabs was found along with several meth pipes and digital scales.

Toby and Elizabeth Adams were lodged in the Graves County Jail and charged with firearm enhanced trafficking more than two grams of methamphetamine, possession of controlled substance, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Toby Adams was additionally charged with five counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Highway crews have endured near-blizzard conditions during this weather event. Snowfall in some areas is believed to be about 1 inch per hour. Wind is blowing the snow creating some drifting and helping to quickly cover tire tracks of any vehicles that are moving. At some locations visibility has been down to a few hundred yards at times.

Crews have stopped spreading salt due to the low temperatures, and have been concentrating on plowing in an effort to keep roadways passable.

The National Weather Service at Paducah was officially reporting 6.1 inches of snow accumulation at 8:30 pm.

Todd says it will likely be later in the day Thursday before crews can move to "B" and "C" Snow Priority Routes, which are connector and rural secondary highways.

Unnecessary travel is being strongly discouraged.

Last year, nearly 70 percent of the state’s announced new investment and new jobs came from existing Kentucky businesses looking to expand.

Site Selection, an Atlanta-based publication, has rated the states annually since 1978. Corporate real estate analysts regard the rankings as an “industry scoreboard.”

Rushing was transported to Jackson Purchase Medical Center in Mayfield for treatment of her injuries.

The picture included in this story indicates up to 10 inches of snow and sleet is expected across the Paducah area, with slightly lesser amounts toward the Kentucky / Tennessee state line, and near Carbondale in Southern Illinois.

Forecasters are calling for temperatures to continue to fall throughout the afternoon, with the snow estimates consistently remaining on par with the other snow storm a few weeks ago across the area.

The picture included in this story indicates up to 10 inches of snow and sleet is expected across the Paducah area, with slightly lesser amounts toward the Kentucky / Tennessee state line, and near Carbondale in Southern Illinois.

Forecasters are calling for temperatures to continue to fall throughout the afternoon, with the snow estimates consistently remaining on par with the other snow storm a few weeks ago across the area.

The picture included in this story indicates up to 10 inches of snow and sleet is expected across the Paducah area, with slightly lesser amounts toward the Kentucky / Tennessee state line, and near Carbondale in Southern Illinois.

Forecasters are calling for temperatures to continue to fall throughout the afternoon, with the snow estimates consistently remaining on par with the other snow storm a few weeks ago across the area.

The picture included in this story indicates up to 10 inches of snow and sleet is expected across the Paducah area, with slightly lesser amounts toward the Kentucky / Tennessee state line, and near Carbondale in Southern Illinois.

Forecasters are calling for temperatures to continue to fall throughout the afternoon, with the snow estimates consistently remaining on par with the other snow storm a few weeks ago across the area.

Expectations for southern border counties in Kentucky are for 1/10 to 1/4 inch of freezing rain, with other areas below 1/10th inch of ice, with maybe ½ to 1 inch of sleet. The snow would then accumulate on top of that. 

With substantial winds from the northwest there will be more potential for drifting on roadways.

Highway crews in each county have prepared to provide around the clock response, including working 14-to-16 hour shifts.

The outcome was a victory for Obama and Democrats, and a defeat for the GOP strategy of trying to overturn Obama's executive actions on immigration by linking them to funding for Homeland.

Republicans were unable to overcome united opposition from Senate Democrats to their strategy. They also suffered embarrassing internal divisions that left the country within hours of a partial agency shutdown last week.  

This changeover will likely not take place until late afternoon... and perhaps even early this evening near the Tennessee border. Moderate to heavy snow will continue for several hours tonight before tapering off early Thursday morning.

By early Thursday morning... snowfall totals are expected to average 6 to 8 inches along the Tennessee border. An eight to ten inch swath of snowfall is possible generally twenty-five miles either side of a line from Sikeston Missouri to Paducah and Madisonville. As much as one inch of sleet may fall prior to the snow. It should be noted that if freezing rain and sleet persist longer than expected...  snow amounts may not be as high.

This quantity of snow and sleet accumulation will produce treacherous conditions and cause significant travel issues across the region. Isolated power outages will also be possible. 

Click the link below for more information.

This changeover will likely not take place until late afternoon... and perhaps even early this evening near the Tennessee border. Moderate to heavy snow will continue for several hours tonight before tapering off early Thursday morning.

By early Thursday morning... snowfall totals are expected to average 6 to 8 inches along the Tennessee border. An eight to ten inch swath of snowfall is possible generally twenty-five miles either side of a line from Sikeston Missouri to Paducah and Madisonville. As much as one inch of sleet may fall prior to the snow. It should be noted that if freezing rain and sleet persist longer than expected...  snow amounts may not be as high.

This quantity of snow and sleet accumulation will produce treacherous conditions and cause significant travel issues across the region. Isolated power outages will also be possible. 

Click the link below for more information.

Police later arrested 43-year-old Christopher H. Simpkins of Cairo in connection to what is being called a homicide.

Police said no motive has yet been determined, and the investigation continues.  

But the legislation doesn't give the governor the power to spend the money. Spending still has to be approved by the Legislature.

Rauner has asked for expanded authority to patch the full $1.6 billion hole in the budget.

Senate Republicans call the effort a "half-hearted'' attempt at a fix. 

Moody’s said the stable outlook reflects their expectation that the steps recently taken by Paducah Power will lead to a better financial picture in coming months and their belief that Prairie State’s improved operating performance can be sustained.       

“The Moody’s adjustment is not a surprise, given our financial metrics,” said PPS General Manager Gary Zheng. “However, we’re very encouraged by Moody’s confidence in our recovery plan and their willingness to keep us at an investment grade rating. Of all the possible decisions by Moody’s this was one of the more positive outcomes we could have achieved under our current circumstances.”       

Since November Paducah Power has implemented key elements of the utility’s Rate Recovery Plan, including replacing debt service reserve funds with surety bonds and hiring a new portfolio manager to better manage power sales and purchases. The goal is to stabilize PPS’s finances, saving about $4.7 million in the current fiscal year, so customers can get some rate relief in July.     

Moody’s said it expects the recovery plan to yield cost savings and strengthen the utility's finances without rate increases, so they gave the “Baa1” rating instead of the lower “Baa2” rating their scorecard indicated in some of their metrics.        

“They seemed impressed with the presentations staff made to them in New York in December, and with the recent performance of Prairie State,” said Zheng. “Our conversations with Moody’s have been very positive.”   

Kentucky is one of five states receiving $27 million in grant money from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The project will begin in January 2016 and finish in September 2017. Only families with children 16 and younger can participate.

The project will focus on eastern Kentucky counties where family incomes are low. About 38 percent of families in eastern mountain counties receive federal food benefits.

The Elk & Bison Prairie will re-open Tuesday, March 3. The following attractions and facilities previously scheduled to open for the season March 4, will now re-open Wednesday, March 11, weather permitting:
· North and South Welcome Stations
· Woodlands Nature Station and Homeplace 1850’s Farm
· Developed Campgrounds – Energy, Hillman Ferry, Piney, and Wranglers

Turkey Bay Off-Highway Vehicle Area will remain closed until weather and soil conditions greatly improve.
 
Many side roads were not treated following the previous winter weather event and are still ice and snow packed. Please drive slowly and use caution when driving through the area.
 
Updates and additional information can be found online at www.landbetweenthelakes.us, or by calling 270-924-2000 or 800-525-7077. You may also follow Land Between The Lakes on Twitter @LBLScreechOwl or @LandBtwnLakes for updates.

Stevenson and two passengers on the bus – 41-year-old Marnetta Roddy of Oakland Circle, and 66-year-old Chloe M. Jolie, of South 9th Street – were taken to local hospitals for treatment. The driver of the bus, 78-year-old William E. O’Brien and another passenger, 75-year-old Daniel L. Brown, of Legion Drive were not injured. 

New to the fair this year is the local Army office’s American Soldier Adventure Semi-Truck (AS7) that will feature a unique science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) experience based in the future.

The AS7 experience includes a series of three different rooms, the Situation Room, the Mission Room, and the Research and Development Room.

Upon entering the experience in groups of 10-20, visitors will enter the future surrounded by flat panel displays showing fictional news clips from around the world in 2032.

In room two, the groups will join a team of soldiers and scientists to analyze the factors faced in a disaster scenario and use STEM skills to consider a way to overcome the hazards involved and help people in the scenario.

The groups will use an interactive screen to devise a solution to the scenario in room three.

The Job and Transfer Fair and entrance to the AS7 are free and open to all WKCTC students and alumni.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Paducah Police Department at 270-444-8550 or Crime Stoppers at 270-443-TELL. Information leading to an arrest or indictment may result in a reward of up to $1,000.

This year’s competition featured 167 different wines produced by both commercial wineries and amateur vintners alike from Kentucky and Illinois.

“One of the best parts of this competition is that it is blind and all wines are judged on standards,” said this year's event coordinator, Tom Curstinger. “The judges don’t know if the wine they are tasting was made by a professional winery or a hobbyist, and sometimes the hobbyists beat the professionals, since they are scored to standard.

32 judges scored the wines on a 100 point scale on criteria such as bouquet, color, clarity, and of course taste. The wines were divided into eight categories, from sweet, fruit, semi-sweet, dessert, and dry.  

Flavors included the usual reds and whites, to apple pie, and even butter pecan.  And Fruit wines, including pomegranate, elderberry, blackberry, blueberry, peach, pear, strawberry and cherry.

“The way we do the judging, each wine is scored fairly and objectively, and we allow notes from the judges, which helps everyone to improve their wines.  In the past there have been some wines that didn’t score well at first but took the notes from the judges and came the back next year and medalled. And at the end of the day we want to help everyone make better wine.

Curtsinger said one of the goals the group has for the contest is to reach out to the amateurs and help them to grow, and produce good wines.

“There are a lot more amateur winemakers out there and that’s who we really want to reach out to and help, even if they want to just do it for fun and a hobby. It’s a cool feeling to know you put together a wine that ranked better than some of the commercial wines out there. It makes that wine taste even better to do that.”

The winners will be announced and medals will be presented in a couple of weeks. West Kentucky Star will have complete results.

If you want to learn more about making wine, or how to start making wine, or how to enter next year's contest you can contact the West Kentucky Winegrowers Association on Facebook.

This year’s competition featured 167 different wines produced by both commercial wineries and amateur vintners alike from Kentucky and Illinois.

“One of the best parts of this competition is that it is blind and all wines are judged on standards,” said this year's event coordinator, Tom Curstinger. “The judges don’t know if the wine they are tasting was made by a professional winery or a hobbyist, and sometimes the hobbyists beat the professionals, since they are scored to standard.

32 judges scored the wines on a 100 point scale on criteria such as bouquet, color, clarity, and of course taste. The wines were divided into eight categories, from sweet, fruit, semi-sweet, dessert, and dry.  

Flavors included the usual reds and whites, to apple pie, and even butter pecan.  And Fruit wines, including pomegranate, elderberry, blackberry, blueberry, peach, pear, strawberry and cherry.

“The way we do the judging, each wine is scored fairly and objectively, and we allow notes from the judges, which helps everyone to improve their wines.  In the past there have been some wines that didn’t score well at first but took the notes from the judges and came the back next year and medalled. And at the end of the day we want to help everyone make better wine.

Curtsinger said one of the goals the group has for the contest is to reach out to the amateurs and help them to grow, and produce good wines.

“There are a lot more amateur winemakers out there and that’s who we really want to reach out to and help, even if they want to just do it for fun and a hobby. It’s a cool feeling to know you put together a wine that ranked better than some of the commercial wines out there. It makes that wine taste even better to do that.”

The winners will be announced and medals will be presented in a couple of weeks. West Kentucky Star will have complete results.

If you want to learn more about making wine, or how to start making wine, or how to enter next year's contest you can contact the West Kentucky Winegrowers Association on Facebook.

No timetable for when the remodeling will be complete. 

According to deputies, Lampkin admitted that he had purchased $50 worth of meth from an unknown subject at a local gas station on Paducah’s south side earlier in the day and had ingested the substance prior to the deputies' arrival.

Lampkin was arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The bill would raise those requirements. Children would have to stay in booster seats until reaching 9 years old or 57 inches tall under the measure. Any child taller than 57 inches would not be required to ride in a booster seat as part of the bill.

The legislation passed the House on a 61-26 vote Friday. The bill now goes to the Senate, where a similar proposal died last year.

Conversion is underway on more than 500 miles of natural gas pipeline, part of which runs through the Shawnee National Forest. The stretch runs underground from Joppa in Massac County north through Johnson and Williamson counties up to Johnsonville in Wayne County.

Southward, the pipeline crosses into western McCracken County through Ballard, Carlisle, Hickman and Fulton counties in Kentucky. It will continue to St. James, Louisiana for refining or loading into tankers.

Granado told The Southern Illinoisan in Carbondale the pipeline would not carry tar sands crude. That's the Canadian product involved in the Keystone XL pipeline, a project President Barack Obama vetoed last week.

___ Information from: Southern Illinoisan, http://www.southernillinoisan.com

To conclude the annual fundraiser there will be an open house on May 23 from 2pm until 4pm, with food and refreshments, a silent auction for donations, as well as cash drawings for $200 and $100 (you must be present to win). For any questions about this event please contact Curt Curtner at (270) 703-8204.

The menu includes beef carved on the line, baked country ham, golden fried catfish and hushpuppies. The meal will also include fresh fruit, a cheese bar, garden vegetables, salad and desserts.

Several parks are planning egg hunts and other activities for guests. For more information, or to make lodging reservations, visit www.parks.ky.gov. Here are Easter weekend events (all times are local):

Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park, Mount Olivet
Children’s Egg Hunt, April 4
Over 2,000 eggs filled with candy will be hidden for girls and boys under the age of 12 to hunt. There will be four different age categories for children: 0-2, 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12. Eggs for each category will be hidden in different locations surrounding the Pioneer Museum. Prizes awarded for those who find the first-, second- and third-place eggs and “special” eggs in each category. In cooperation with the Robertson County Tourism Commission, there will be two different hunts on the morning of April 4. At 11 a.m., age groups 0-2 and 3-5 (Sponsored by the Robertson County Tourism Commission). This hunt will be at the public pool ball field. At 11:30 a.m., age groups 6-8 and 9-12 (Sponsored by Blue Licks and the Blue Licks Commemorative Commission). This hunt will be at the historic battlefield in front of the Pioneer Museum. Call 859-289-5507.

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn
Easter Egg Hunt, April 5
The Easter Bunny will be present at Buckhorn Lake as several hundred eggs filled with candy will be hidden for girls and boys the age of 12 and under. There will be different age categories and eggs will be hidden in different areas on the Marina Road. Easter bags with toys in them will be given out as well. The hunt will start at 2:30 p.m. Call 1-606-398-7510 for more information.

Carter Caves State Resort Park, Olive Hill
Easter Weekend Getaway, April 3-5
Carter Caves will have family-oriented programs throughout the weekend.  Events include egg coloring, scavenger hunting, a wildflower walk and other fun activities. On Easter Sunday, the park is serving the Easter buffet. The annual Easter egg hunt sponsored by the Carter Caves Homemakers – with over 1,000 eggs for children 12 and under – starts at 2 p.m. at the welcome center. Tours of Cascade and X-cave will be on a regular schedule.  Call 1-606-286-4411.

Grayson Lake State Park, Grayson
Easter Crafts, Contest and Eggs, April 3-4
Campers at Grayson Lake begin decorating their campsite April 3 for the campsite decorating contest. Easter crafts at the campground shelter will be 3-4 p.m. The Easter egg hunt is Saturday, April 4, starting at noon. Age groups are 2 and under, 3-5, 6-9, and 10-12. Campsite decorating contest winners will be announced. Call 606-474-2553.

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, Prestonsburg
Easter Egg Hunt, April 4
It is a hopping good time at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park campground! Children age 12 and under are invited to come look for all the eggs hidden throughout the campground. We will have three age groups and 6,000 eggs along with prize eggs! You will have the opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny and have your photo with him. Each child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and there will be separate areas for different age groups. This event is free. Call 606-889-1790.

John James Audubon State Park, Henderson
Eggstravaganza, March 28
Bring kids ages 3-7 for a hopping good time at the annual Eggstravaganza, 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Audubon Museum. Children will enjoy Funny Bunnies Art, storytelling, live bunnies and Easter snacks. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required. The fee is $7. Contact Kim McGrew-Liggett 270-827-1893 or kim.mcgrew@ky.gov

Little Rembrandts - Funny Bunnies Art, April 3
Cherish those creative moments with your little Rembrandts at John James Audubon Museum. Art classes will meet once a month on Fridays from 10:30-11:30 a.m., with a variety of themes and art materials. Dress for a mess and discover the world of Art with Miss Kim. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required. The fee is $5. Contact Kim McGrew-Liggett, kim.mcgrew@ky.gov  or 270-827-1893.

Kenlake State Resort Park, Aurora
Egg Hunt, April 5
Kenlake State Resort Park is hosting an Easter egg hunt on the front lawn of the Kenlake Hotel, April 5 at 2 p.m. Eggs will be stuffed with prizes for girls and boys in age categories 2 and under, 3-5, 6-9 and 10-12. The Easter Bunny will also make an appearance during the festivities. Enjoy breakfast in the Aurora Landing Restaurant from 7-10 a.m. and the Easter buffet from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Call 270-474-2211.

Lake Barkley State Resort Park, Cadiz
Egg-ceptional Egg Hunt, April 5
Lake Barkley’s Windows on the Water Restaurant will offer its annual Easter buffet from noon-8 p.m. April 5. That afternoon, more than 3,000 eggs will be part of the park’s Egg-ceptional Egg Hunt! The Easter Bunny arrives at the fitness center at 2:30 p.m., and the egg hunt starts at 3 p.m., also at the fitness center. From toddlers to teenagers, bring your baskets and gather some goodies. The egg hunt is sponsored by employees of Lake Barkley State Resort Park and Friends of Lake Barkley SRP Inc. Call 270-924-1131.

Lake Cumberland State Resort Park, Jamestown
Easter Egg Hunt, April 4
Several thousand eggs filled with candy or toys will be hidden for girls and boys under the age of 13. There will be different age categories, and eggs will be hidden in different areas for each category in the disc golf course area. Prizes will be awarded. The hunt will start at 1 p.m. at the disc golf course’s first hole. Call 1-270-343-3111.

Old Fort Harrod State Park, Harrodsburg
Community Egg Hunt, April 4
The entire community is invited to the park at noon to take part in a long-running Harrodsburg tradition!  Children up to 12 years old can search for eggs and candies hidden in the grass and compete in great fun and games. Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Harrodsburg. Kids can have pictures made with the Easter Bunny. Call 859-734-3314.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, Dawson Springs
Easter Eggcitement, April 5
Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park invites you to enjoy the Easter buffet served noon to 8 p.m. Get pictures with the kids and the Easter Bunny at 1:30 p.m. ($2 per photo) and then take part in the free Easter egg hunt at 2:30 p.m. at the lodge. Events will be held rain or shine. This event is sponsored by the Friends of Pennyrile. Call 270-797-3421.

Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville
Kiwanis Egg Hunt, April 4
The Pineville Kiwanis Club will be hosting its annual Easter egg hunt at Pine Mountain State Resort Park on Saturday, April 4, from noon-2 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Some 1,500 eggs will be filled with candy and hidden in the cove. There will also be prizes for kids. Grilled hot dogs, chips, drink and dessert will be served.  The Easter buffet will be served Sunday. Call 606-337-3066.

Rough River Dam State Resort Park, Falls of Rough
Easter Eggstravaganza, April 4
Make plans to attend Rough River Dam State Resort Park’s giant egg hunt on April 4 starting at 2 p.m. Registration starts at 1:30 p.m. More than 5,000 eggs for children in age groups 0-2, 3-5, 6-8 and 9-12 will be hidden. Bring a camera for pictures with the Easter Bunny. Easter buffet on Sunday. Call 270-257-2311.

The Kentucky State Park System is composed of 49 state parks plus an interstate park shared with Virginia. The Department of Parks, an agency of the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, operates 17 resort parks with lodges -- more than any other state. For more information on Kentucky parks, visit our website at http://www.parks.ky.gov



Information provided by the Kentucky State Park System Kentucky State Park System.

Each spring and fall for more than ten years, the Graves County Schools have partnered with the American Red Cross to host blood drives and through that tradition, have helped save thousands of lives. “These are not easy events to pull off, to say the least,” Fristoe noted. “Coordinators from each school put in hours of hard work recruiting and scheduling donors, assigning volunteers and educating and motivating students to increase their leadership skills and to become heroes by recruiting adults to donate in their place. It is amazing to see each community as well as the entire county come together to support the efforts of each school and to make a significant impact on so many lives!

“Many people don’t realize that most cancer patients must receive blood products: platelets and/or red blood cells during their treatment, as one example of the need.  Last year alone, Graves County schools collected 435 units of blood, which resulted in more than 1,300 lives potentially saved. This year is on pace to collect even more.” Fristoe concluded, “Tori’s family hopes her story inspires others to donate blood at one of seven locations over the course of four days. When you give blood, you truly do give the gift of life.”

Walk-ins are welcome. However, donors are encouraged to pre-schedule appointments because it reduces waiting time. To schedule an appointment, visit www.redcrossblood.org or email the coordinator at the preferred location. 

Sedalia, from 1-6 p.m. Monday, March 9, contact Mike.Duncan@graves.kyschools.us.

Fancy Farm, 1-6 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, contact Leahckeeling@yahoo.com.

Central, 1-6 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, contact Juliana.Reyes@graves.kyschools.us.

Symsonia, noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 11, contact Jennifer.Morris@graves.kyschools.us.   

Farmington, noon to 5 p.m. Thursday, March 12, contact Jennifer.Morris@graves.kyschools.us.

Lowes, noon to 5 p.m. Thursday, March 12, contact Stephanie.Matthews@graves.kyschools.us.

Wingo, 1-6 p.m. Thursday, March 12, contact Tana.Jones@graves.kyschools.us.

Mayfield EMS and the Wingo Fire Department removed Preuett from the vehicle. According to deputies, Preuett was intoxicated and driving on a suspended license. She was transported to the Wingo Ball Field by Mayfield EMS and then flown by Air Evac to St. Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau, MO.

According to deputies, charges on Preuett will be filed for DUI, driving on a suspended license, possession of an open alcohol container in a motor vehicle and other moving violations.

For teams who register by Tuesday, March 3, those team captains who sign up with a Relay For Life event in Graves, Ballard, Carlisle, Hickman or Fulton counties will be eligible for a drawing to win an extra-large promo Yadier Molina St. Louis Cardinals jersey.

Teams are welcome to attend their respective county’s event and set up a campsite or simply bring lawn chairs and walk the track to support cancer survivors and raise awareness about the fight against cancer. Teams are also encouraged to help fund research grants and programs and services through the American Cancer Society by holding fundraisers.

Registration can be done online at www.relayforlife.org and search for the Graves, Ballard, Carlisle, Hickman or Fulton county event. For additional information, contact the Paducah office of the American Cancer Society at (270) 444-0743.

When the policy goes into full force on August 5, personal tobacco use will be prohibited on property owned, operated, leased, occupied or controlled by the university, including vehicles on university property.

The rule applies to e-cigarettes as well as cigarettes, cigars, pipes and unlit tobacco such as snuff or dip.

Some recommendations will take effect March 15, with no smoking allowed within 25 feet of building openings and major air intake vents.

Lourdes Foundation raises and manages philanthropic contributions which allow Lourdes to promote good health, purchase state-of-the art technology and equipment, construct and maintain facilities and support the programs and services that comfort and heal our patients. More than $20 million has been committed to Lourdes Foundation since its inception in 2001. These contributions have been invested into life-saving and life-changing programs and services, such as The Ray & Kay Hospice Care Center, the region’s first inpatient Hospice care center, scheduled to be completed in April. Foundation contributions also helped fund a newly renovated Outpatient Infusion Therapy Center and The Lourdes Center for Sleep Disorders.

The TVA contractor began the project in the Neville Bay area and is slowly moving north, removing overgrowth that has encroached upon the area beneath the electrical lines. When completed, approximately 75 feet from the center on each side of electrical transmission lines will be cleared to help protect the lines from falling trees. Overgrowth will be removed along approximately 31 miles of electrical transmission lines in Land Between The Lakes.

Land Between The Lakes management asks visitors to take extra safety precautions traveling roads and trails that may cross under the electrical transmission lines during this time period.

For more information regarding TVA and their maintenance on power line right-of-ways, log on to their website at http://www.tva.com/power/rightofway/index.htm.

The following students (listed by their county residence) earning this recognition for the fall 2014 semester are:

Ballard County, KY
Jillian Babb, Brittany Buchanan, Lacey Collins, Rebecca Conner, Tanner Davis, Whitney Garnett, Elizabeth Goodin, Emily Hargrove, Katie Hicks, Betty Hon, Bridget Houston, Keaton Johnson, Jessica Kelley, Caitlyn Meinschein, Aaron Milgate, Rhonda Miller, Brennen Neeley, Tanya Parker, Cera Peck, Erika Ray, Jeremy Renfrow, Devon Robertson, Samuela Scott, Charles Stinson, Emily Sullivan, Katina Sullivan, Jade Tilford, Karley Wray

Caldwell County, KY
Chelsea Armstrong, Holly Birdsong, Jennifer Brown, Jessica Conger, Amanda East, Cory Simmons, Latifah Stills, Laura Stovall, Victoria Walker, Robert Waters III, Austin Witherspoon, Haleigh Wright

Calloway County, KY
Destiny Adams, Mykyta Birbasov, Michelle Burkeen, Emily Carraway, Amber Carter, Michelle Chadwick, James Clendenen, Aaron Collie, Megan Cooper, Carrie Crouse, Erica Drake, Alicia Eaves, Seth Frederick, Kennedy Garrison, Terrah Gere, Sarah Goad, Mary Gonsalves, Travis Hoskins, Joshua Hudspeth, Crystal Keene, Antonio Kendall, Jason Kirks, Travis Moore, Heather Quinn, Henry Richardson, Kerri Saunders, Emily Scott, Sarah Swinford, Laken Vance, Blake Vincent

Carlisle County, KY
Michael Copeland, Micah Ellegood, Alyssia Fernandez, Trevor Gourley, Barry Hinkle, Haylie Hobbs, Thomas Martin, Jennifer McKelly, Emily Owens, Keristen Patterson, Rachel Phelan, Sydney Phelps, Nyssa Shemwell, Kayla Stephens, Amanda Toon, Nicholas Sams

Crittenden County, KY
Justin Bane, Elizabeth Brown, Melia Cappello, Jessica Collins, Danielle Duncan, Amelia Gilley, Ethan Hill, Savannah Oliver, Keaton Shewcraft, Linda Swyter

Daviess County, KY
Kara Aud and Lindsey Schroeder

Fulton County, KY
Sarah Bennett, Christian Gardner, Aaron Leach, Eddie Tidwell, Dione Wilson

Graves County, KY
Jacob Alexander, Carissa Barham, Nicholas Barham, Jonathan Bell, Christopher Belt, Justus Blount, Kevin Bond, Meagan Breeden, Laura Britt, Monty Burch, Jacquelyn Burgess, Jennifer Burnett, Lindsey Campbell, Christian Carrico, Elizabeth Carver, Jacob Chambers, Jessica Choate, Kaitlyn Clapp, Dawn Coleman, Randi Coleman, Karla Cortez, Rebecca Crews, Heather Dillon, Donnie Dixon, Natalie Doran, Wendy Duffy, Macy Elder, Amber Fiers, Kimberly Fulcher, Danielle Gardner, Tanisha Gills, Monica Glasco, Jonathan Goatley, Jerry Gore, Jordan Gream, Kyler Hagan, Kelly Helton, Steven Hooper, Vanessa Hopper, Douglas Irby, Marcus Irvan, Kyanna Jackson, Dalton Jackson, Kelsey Jackson, William Jones, Steven Jones, Eron Jones, Ashley Keen, Erika Keipp, Michelle Keipp, Rebecca Key, James Lamb, Mandi Lee, Sydney Long, William Lozoya, Chance Marshall, Gloria Morales, Nicole Nanny, Jade Nichols, Todd Norsworthy, Ralisha Oliver, Crystal Orr, Tina Page, Lexi Page, Steven Parrott, Terri Price, Kaylin Reed, Cynthia Richard, Randy Rives, Georgiana Roberts, Sheena Skaggs, Brandie Smith, Robyn Smith, Kristie Starks, Sandra Stephens-kruse, Nick Suiter, Andrea Sullivan, Cory Toon, Lakin Toon, Jessica Treas, Kevin Trevarthen, Colene Tyler, Donna Von Schoech, Jason Waid, Krista Williams, Sylvia Willie, Shannon Wilmoth, Carley Wilson, Christopher Woods

Henry County, TN
Katrina Mathis and Joy Slaton

Hickman County
Teressa Campbell, Allison Jones, Hailey Parnell, Mandy Sullenger, Gena Wilson, Mia Wilson

Hopkins County, KY
Aerielle Crick, Jessi Finch, Laurie Robinson, Stephanie Robinson

Jefferson County, LA
Rickey Melancon

Jefferson County
Benish Shabbir, Mark Wetzel

Johnson County, IL
Laurie Ellis

Livingston County, KY
Haley Adams, Cheryl Baker, Jessica Bartilotta, Mishel Crowe, Amber Davis, Lawson Davis, Irvin Davis, Tracey Dismore, Jason Finnie, Chester Gainey, Valerie Ginn, Madison Gray, Nathan Hackney, Sarah Hall, Mackenzie Hardin, Jessica Hopkins, Gary Ivy, Lucas Joiner, Keirsten Keith, Adam Kinnes, Kaitlin Kirkham, Nicole Kitchens, Josie Lasters, Breanna Lowrance, Christen Manhart, Shawanna Oliver, Adam Padon, Alex Padon, Jana Ramage, Melissa Scheidler, Klay Southern, Courtney Walker, Katherine Wallace, Kelsey Warren, Jenny Watkins, Haley White, Ashley Wright, Jamie Zaim

Lyon County, KY
Josie Armstrong, Amanda Barnes, Rhonda Collins, Crystal Jewell, Tyler Martin, Jordan Mciver, Ashley Melander, Joy Morrison, Jillian P'poole, Eric Ramey, Kristen Swiader, Sarah White, Benjamin Wilson, Megan York

Marshall County, KY
Kailen Adams, Tamra Baker, Jansen Barrett, Caitlin Becker, Thomas Bennett, Lauren Benton, Rachel Bowlin, Kelly Bradham, Sara Bradley, Taylor Clark, Haley Copeland, Marla Croft, Tara Croft, Taylor Cruce, Peter Davis, Dalton Dawes, Haley Duerr, Lynnette Galvan, Joshua Gipson, Morgan Giurintano, Matthew Gore, Mikal Gowins, Madison Grammer, Casey Hackney, Darian Helton, Kiona Hochstatter, Lindsey Holland, Jacob Hugenroth, Melody John, Nathaniel Jones, Songhyun Kim, Ashley Kim, Alice Knight, Jacy Knoth, Amanda Lenhardt, Rachel Mahoney, Malorie Mays, Joseph McClanahan, Teresa Mcguins, Madeline Mensch, Courtney Nanney, Brandi Pearson, Brandyn Potavin, Rachel Redden, Kelly Schloss, MaKayla Smith, Latesha Stevenson, Matthew Taylor, Jessie Titsworth, Hillary Turner, Valaree Vinson, Ryan Wells, Austin West, Jordan West, Shannon Wilford, Mckenna Wilkey, Sarah Willett, Christina Winsett

Massac County, IL
Natalie Bailey, Drew Bailey, Travis Beck, Taylor Bowman, Jonathan Buhrman, Christina Bundren, Michael Cate, Austin Green, Courteney Green, Dustin Hardin, Keith Hayes, Mason Heine, Jodie Jacobs, Kaylor Martin, Kimberly Meyers, Molly Nordquist, Keisha Prewitt, Kevan Ragsdale, Lawrence Ragsdale, Rebecca Steinmetz, Jacob Wolfe, Grace Yocum

McCracken County, KY
Angela Allison, Summer Allred, Timothy Ball, Stephanie Barrett, Laurie Beasley, Sydney Bebout, Elizabeth Behrens, Zachary Belt, Christopher Bencini, Che Bernhardt, Baylee Blackburn, Miranda Bliss, Shelby Bommarito, Ryan Born, Lonna Bradford, Alexander Bradley, William Brandon, Courtney Brantley, Thomas Brassell, Shannon Bright, Carla Brindley, Cayce Brockwell, Steven Bruce, Christopher Buckhalter, Christianna Bullmer, Jared Burnett, Richard Buurman, Sarah Byassee, Katie Canter, Lexie Carper, Barbara Chambers, Kain Choat, Danielle Clapp, David Clardy, Kenneth Cleary, Lawrence Cloyd, Brittany Cocke, Heather Cole, Michael Coons, Kelsey Couch, Roy Crouch, Douglas Cunningham, Nicholas Davis, Anthony Davis, Desiree Delapaz, Suzanne Denson, Nicholas Dillon, Brennan Draw, Cody Duncan, Tammy Dunker, Alex Ellermann, Haleigh Ellis, Monica Esterlein, Matthew Fike, Chaisty Fondaw, Amanda Forsythe, Kyle Foster-ballinger, Jeremy Fowler, Aaron Fox, Brandi Fuller, Robert Fulton, Alessia Gallo, Crosby Gardner, Shelby Garner, Lesley Garrett, Gina Gee, John Gentry, Catalina Giraldo Reyes, Elizabeth Gracely, William Graves, Fionna Gray, Taylor Guthrie, Madison Guthrie, Thomas Hagan, Zachary Hague, Mackenzie Hardeman, Lakin Hardison, Andrea Hardison, Olivia Harp, Claudia Harris, Lauren Harris, Jacob Harshman, Stephanie Hawkins, Mckenzie Hayden, Jacqueline Headrick, Gary Hearell, Austin Helton, Lyndsey Hendrix, Anita Henson, William Heritage, Katelyn Hinchey, Danielle Holland, Katie Holstein, Benjamin Hopper, Lauralee Horn, Julie Howard, Deric Hudson, Rebecca Hummel, Marina Inman, Nicole Jackson, Nicholas Jagielo, Ryan James, Bethanie Johnson, Maria Johnson, Jasmine Johnson, Ashley Johnston, Alyson Jones, Krista Jones, Jeston Jones, Chandni Joshi, Kristen Kelley, Keri Key, James Kimble, Alexandra King, Isaac Klapp, Joanna Koster, Theresa Kucera, Sydney Kuiper, Ashley Lambert, Michael Langston, Thomas Largent, Hyeonbin Lee, Andrea Lester, Logan Lindblad, Keith Lloyd, Eslobanka Loaiza, Marlee Loverkamp, Benjamin Lowery, Chelsey Marble, Lexi Martin, Matthew Martin, Steven Martin, Hunter Mcgregor, Alec Mcmahon, Tyler Mcmanus, Katelinn Meyer, Dylan Miller, Ryan Miller, Barry Miller, Louis Moffatt III, Christina Moore, Blake Morrow, Susanna Morrow, Juanya' Moss, William Myers, Austin Nall, Corey Nance, Casey Nelson, Lindsey Newberry, Skylar Nunley, Courtney Nussbaumer, Selenia Ortiz, James Ouderkirk, Bryan Owen, Shelley Pangman, James Panosh, Clarissa Pease, Thomas Peeler, Peacelynn Perilloux, Allison Petterson, Scott Potter, Wilma Prather-Freeman, Hillary Price, Victoria Pulley, Jeff Riedfort, Tanner Riley, Judy Roach, Jordan Robertson, Mckenzie Rogers, Jonathan Ross, Bing Rounsavall, Joanna Rowland, Josef Rumsey, Benjamin Sandman, Renee Schrecengost, Jacob Shanks, Mack Shannon, Lindsey Sharer, Andrew Shields, Robert Simon, Ansley Sims, Haylee Siress, Renita Skinner, Lindsay Slone, Jared Smith, Mary Spear, Michael Steele, Ryan Steele, Paul Strasser, Allen Tabor, Tramisha Taylor, Joseph Taylor, Casey Thomas, John Thompson, Emily Thompson, Keely Thompson, Jonathan Thompson, Charles Thresher, Caleb Tidwell, Jade Townsley, Clayton Tracy, James Turner, Emily Verbaere, Jacob Vied, Juliane Vo, John Vorholt, Charles Wahl, Timothy Walker, Charles Walker, Immanuel Wallace, Vickie Ware, Allison Warford, Rometta Washington, Evan Watkins, Dwain Watson, Gwen Watson, Judith Watson, Benjamin Watson, Caitlin Weaver, Andrew Weitlauf, Jill Westerfield, Gracen Wheat, Sarah Wilkerson, Hannah Williams, Millicent Williams, Daniel Wilson, Katherine Wisdom, Kaytlyn Woodruff, Troy Woody, Kayla Word, Kelly Word

Meade County, KY
Ronald Vessels

Mississippi County, MO
Terri Taylor

Nelson County, KY
Christina Keeling

New Madrid County, MO
Gary Thornberry

Obion County, TN
Cheryl Blair, April Jaggers, Crystal Stewart

Pope County, IL
Kristina Bates, Mary Hudspeth

Union County, KY
Leann Martin

Weakley County, TN
Joshua Scott

Whitman County, WA
Jonathon Wells

Information provided by Janett Blythe, WKCTC.

The first tournament of the 20th anniversary season of the FLW Tour, the most competitive tour in professional bass fishing, kicks off March 5-8 at Lake Toho in central Florida. The tournament will feature some of the world’s best bass fishing professionals casting for top awards of up to $125,000 cash in the pro division, and up to $25,000 cash in the co-angler division.  

Fishing fans that can’t make the trek to Florida can still follow along with all of the tournament action at FLWFishing.com. Live on-the-water tweets, updates and videos will be posted throughout the four days of competition as well as a live streaming video feed of the weigh-in held at 5 pm each day.  

In FLW Tour competition, anglers are also vying for valuable points in hopes of qualifying for the Forrest Wood Cup, the world championship of bass fishing. The 2015 Forrest Wood Cup will be in Hot Springs, Arkansas, August 20-23 on Lake Ouachita. The Forrest Wood Cup Champion could win as much as $500,000 – professional bass-fishing’s richest prize.  

For complete details and updated information visit www.FLWFishing.com, at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

Author Lee McClellan is a nationally award-winning associate editor for Kentucky Afield magazine, the official publication of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. He is a life-long hunter and angler, with a passion for smallmouth bass fishing.

 

Dr. Petty completed residency in general surgery at the University of Alabama-Mobile. She is certified by the American Board of Surgery in general surgery.

Dr. Petty is accepting new patients at West Kentucky Surgical Associates in Doctors Office Building 1, Suite 102, Baptist Health Paducah, 2601 Kentucky Ave. in Paducah, The office phone is 270-443-0202.

Those arrested were 19-year-old Helen N. Austin of Mayfield, 21-year-old Joseph Delaney of Murray, 19-year-old Frances C. Lee of New Concord, and 22-year-old Causha Wilkey of Geneva, Nebraska. 

All face charges of theft by deception under $500, theft by unlawful taking under $500, and engaging in organized crime. All four were taken to Calloway County Jail.

The bill had bipartisan support and dissent, with a handful of Republicans and Democrats voting against it. Republican Sen. Tom Buford of Nicholasville said it was hypocritical to vote for a debt limit and then vote to borrow about $130 million for a new cancer research building at the University of Kentucky, which the Senate is scheduled to do next week.

Republican Senate President Robert Stivers said the debt limit would prompt future lawmakers to consider things differently.

Sen. Danny Carroll argued the bill would protect the rights of everyone by requiring transgender student to use the bathroom of their biological sex or a separate bathroom provided by school administrators. But Sen. Reginald Thomas said the Senate has failed in the most important civil rights issue of the era.

There is an estimated two to five-thousand backlogged rape examination kits waiting to be tested in Kentucky.

Sen. Angel says having the actual count is the first step in clearing the shelves of untested rape kits.

The legislation now moves to the full Senate for consideration.

It was the ninth such vote in the last eight years. 

This year the House rejected an amendment that would have added a three-year waiting period. 

Kentucky is one of four states that permanently denies the right to vote for everyone convicted of a felony, unless they receive a pardon from the governor. 

The group has performed at the Kentucky Music Educators Association Conference, the Elmhurst College Jazz Festival and the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic.

The campaign kicked off Thursday and will last for 30 days. It will be shared through social media and email. The crowdfunding site is at the link below

Since 1943, every president has designated March as Red Cross Month to recognize how the Red Cross helps people down the street and across the country.

“The everyday heroes are those who donate blood, volunteer, take a lifesaving class, host a blood drive or make a financial contribution to help neighbors here in the Tennessee Valley Blood Services Region and across the nation,” said Regina Conway, External Communications Manager of the Tennessee Valley Blood Services Region. “We thank and honor these everyday heroes who support the Red Cross.”

People also can become everyday heroes by hosting a SleevesUp virtual blood drive or creating a team via the Blood Donor App. SleevesUp provides an easy way for Red Cross supporters to encourage those in their networks to give blood or platelets to honor someone’s life, celebrate a special occasion or simply bring people together to help save lives. Campaigns can be created online at redcrossblood.org/SleevesUp.

The Blood Donor App allows individuals to find a local blood or platelet donation opportunity, schedule appointments and track their donation history. Plus, it lets users create teams and recruit friends and family to roll up a sleeve with them. The Blood Donor App is available for download by texting BLOODAPP to 90999 or by visiting redcrossblood.org/BloodApp.

“It doesn’t take superpowers to be a hero for a patient in need – just a little time,” added Conway.

Blood donors with all blood types, particularly O negative, A negative and B negative, and platelet donors are encouraged to make an appointment to give.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:
ILLINOIS
Johnson
Cypress
3/11/2015: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Cypress Grade School, 4580 Mt. Pisgah Road

KENTUCKY
Calloway
Murray
3/3/2015: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Murray High School, 501 Doran Road

Carlisle
Bardwell
3/5/2015: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Bardwell Baptist Church, 323 US Highway 51 South

Fulton
Fulton
3/10/2015: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., First Baptist Church, 115 Second St
3/13/2015: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Parkway Regional Hospital, 2000 Holiday Drive

Graves
Fancy Farm
3/10/2015: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Fancy Farm Elementary School, 10225 State Rt. 80 West
3/15/2015: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall 1418, 106 Picnic Blvd.

Mayfield
3/9/2015: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Sedalia Elementary School, 5252 State Route 97
3/10/2015: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Graves County Central Elementary, 2262 State Rt. 121 North
3/12/2015: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Farmington Elementary School, 7730 State Route 121 South

Symsonia
3/11/2015: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Symsonia Elementary School, 11730 State Route 131

Wingo
3/12/2015: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Wingo Elementary School, 449 Lebanon Street
Livingston

Grand Rivers
3/4/2015: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Lake City Baptist Church, 410 Hazel Demery Road

Marshall
Calvert City
3/9/2015: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Calvert City Civic Center, 1445 5th Avenue Southeast

McCracken
Lone Oak
3/1/2015: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m., St. John's Catholic Church, 6705 Old Highway 45

Paducah
3/2/2015: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., First Christian Church, 415 Audubon Drive
3/4/2015: 7 a.m. - 1 p.m., Lourdes Hospital, 1530 Lone Oak Road

MISSOURI
Mississippi
Charleston
3/9/2015: 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., First Baptist Church, 301 South Main

In addition:
Paducah Blood Donor Center at 4635 Falconcrest Drive is open:
· Monday - 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
· Tuesday - 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
· Wednesday - Closed
· 2nd, 3rd Thursday of month - 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
· Friday - 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
· Saturday - 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
· 1st, 4th, 5th Sunday of month - 7 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Paducah Apheresis (Platelet Donation) Center at 4635 Falconcrest Drive is open:
· Monday - 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
· Tuesday - 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
· Wednesday - Thursday - Closed
· Friday - 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
· Saturday - 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
· 1st, 4th, 5th Sunday of month - 7 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
 
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

Hawkins’ recognition was announced February 22 at New Greater Love Missionary Baptist Church during the college’s 2015 Super Sunday, an annual college fair event with the 16 colleges of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System and local churches across the state.

WKCTC President Barbara Veazey presented Hawkins with the award during Sunday’s church service. “To receive this recognition is humbling; I am truly honored,” said 27 year-old Hawkins, a 2005 Paducah Tilghman High School graduate.

The award was created to recognize and commend outstanding individuals and organizations for their leadership and support of diversity and inclusion. “We want to honor those who are transforming our diverse community into an inclusive environment where individuals become educated, are valued for their talent and able to reach their full potential,” said Belinda Dalton-Russell, WKCTC vice president of student development and Super Sunday co-organizer.

Hawkins is a poet, performer, author of “This is Why Kids Wanna Stay Up Late” and community advocate who formerly served as a unit director for Paducah’s Oscar Cross Boys and Girls Club. He has conducted over 300 live poetry performances and workshops throughout Kentucky to promote cultural understanding and responsiveness. Hawkins also shares his poetry with schools and community groups including diversity forums, cultural presentations, student and staff development, training, mentoring, and tutoring students of underrepresented groups. 

“Samuel’s commitment to promoting values of diversity, equity, education and inclusion makes him the perfect choice for our first award,” said Dalton-Russell.

Writing since he was 14 years old, Hawkins’ said his poetry and performances come from a deeply introspective place and strive to celebrate differences and acceptance.  “I want to encourage people to ‘be who you are - love yourself and serve others.’”

A 2009 graduate of Bethel College, Hawkins wants to continue to write and perform while earning a master’s degree in writing with hopes to teach at a four-year university in the future.

“Everything I do is from the heart; it’s never about me. It’s about serving God and giving people hope. Then it’s just about having fun in life, which for me, is giving of myself.”

For more information about the WKCTC diversity and inclusion offerings, contact Dalton-Russell at 270-534-3081, belinda.dalton-russell@kctcs.edu.

The kits will be available to community members, Monday-Friday, at the Graves County Sheriff’s Office from 8am-4:30pm and at the Graves County Health Department from 8am-4pm.

The test kits give parents a tool to engage in the critical conversations about drug use and offers a method for parents who suspect their child may be using illegal substances to be reassured of their judgment and to seek professional help if needed.

According to Andrea Hoskins with Graves County ASAP, because of the limited quantity of drug testing kits, parents are only allowed one kit per month.

If you have any questions or need more information about the drug testing kits, please call Hoskins at 270.247.3553 ext. 248.

The following students advanced to State Finals, which will be held March 14-16 in Louisville, KY.

Mathematics: Zach Althouse (3rd) and Drew Schofield (4th)

Science: Zach Althouse (1st) and Ethan Brown (5th)

Language Arts: Caleigh Propes (1st)

All required forms, recipes, and the $150 team entry fee must be mailed to the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and postmarked no later than March 12. Forms, guidelines, and answers to frequently asked questions are available at the Farm to School Junior Chef website, www.kyagr.com/junior-chef.

Kentucky students in grades 9-12 are eligible to participate. Each team must have three to five members and may have one alternate. Each team’s recipe must include at least five local products and must conform to National School Lunch Program guidelines. Dishes will be judged on taste, appearance, creativity, best and most use of local products, and appropriateness for school food service personnel.

District competitions will open in April, and regional competitions will take place in May. The 16 regional champions will meet to determine the state champion at the Kentucky State Fair in August in Louisville.

Owen County High School won the Junior Chef championship in 2014. Mayfield High School earned the inaugural Junior Chef crown in 2013.

The Farm to School Junior Chef competition is made possible with the cooperation of Sullivan University, the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, the Kentucky Department of Education, and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.

For more information, go to the Junior Chef website, www.kyagr.com/junior-chef, or contact Tina Garland, the KDA’s farm to school program coordinator, at 502-382-7505 or tina.garland@ky.gov.


Information provided by the KY Department of Agriculture.

The clinic is now being offered every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8 am to 5 pm until April 29 in the Anderson Technical Building, Room 230.

Cleanings include examination, x-rays and fluoride treatment. The cost is $45 for adults and $35 for WKCTC students, faculty and staff as well as senior citizens 65 and older and children 12 and under.

Call Robert Sirls at 270-534-3437 to schedule a dental clinic appointment.

This ENCORE SERIES PERFORMANCE features nearly 200 voices representing four separate choruses (Paducah Symphony Chorus, Murray State University Concert Choir, Paducah Symphony Youth Chorus and Paducah Symphony Children's Chorus).

The concert showcases great american hymns and spirituals that are sure to leave you inspired. Purchase tickets online at www.PaducahSymphony.org or at the church for only $10 for adults, free for students. PSO Encore Series Performance season ticket holders have tickets as part of their season package.

The Convenience Store and Arby's Restaurant will remain open during this time. Only the rest rooms will be closed.

Message boards will be placed on ramp approaches to the rest are to alert motorists that no rest rooms are available.

Again, the rest room repairs are expected to take about 3 to 4 days to complete. We will attempt to provide timely notice if the rest room repair work is completed earlier than expected.

The Western Kentucky Parkway Beaver Dam Rest area is at the 75 mile marker, about a mile west of the Natcher Parkway Interchange.

Timely traffic advisories for the 11 counties of KYTC Highway District 2 are available by going to www.facebook.com/kytcdistrict2. You do not have to be a Facebook member to access this page.

Information provided by Keith Todd, KY Transportation Cabinet Public Information Officer.

Gift baskets will be awarded for the five best sculptures.

Along with your photos, include your name, the name of your sculpture, and your contact information. Photos can be emailed to Amie Clark at aclark@paducahky.gov or mailed to the Parks Services Department, 1400 H.C. Mathis Dr., Paducah, KY 42001. 

The deadline to submit entries is March 31.

Information provided by Pam Spencer, Paducah Information Officer.

Area Supervisor Tina Tilley says the facilities won't be opened to the public until next week.

More winter weather is predicted for the weekend along with rain, and Tilley says that will make travel conditions worse.

Updates will be posted online at http://www.landbetweenthelakes.us .

The Elk and Bison Prairie, Golden Pond Visitor Center and Planetarium, Turkey Bay OHV Area and Wranglers Campground remain closed.

Land Between The Lakes manages more than 170,000 acres in western Kentucky and Tennessee.

Once all the artwork has been received, each entry will be available to be viewed by "liking" Congressman Whitfield's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RepEdWhitfield. After "liking" the page, visit the "2015 Congressional Art Competition" album, which will be pinned to the top of Whitfield's Facebook timeline. Participants are encouraged to get their friends and family members to "like" their art to show support for their entry.

The Congressional Art Competition is an annual, nationwide contest sponsored by Members of Congress and the Congressional Institute to showcase the talent of their creative high school constituents. Submissions from winning artists will hang in a part of the Capitol complex known as the Cannon Tunnel - a walkway connecting the House office buildings with the U.S. Capitol and Capitol Visitors Center. Members of Congress along with congressional staff and countless visitors travel this corridor daily, enabling the selected artwork to be viewed by a truly nationwide audience.

The final winner will be determined by a panel of local art experts who will judge the artwork on various criteria. The winner and a guest will be invited to attend the Congressional Art Competition Reception on Capitol Hill being held in late June. The winning entry from the First Congressional District will be displayed in the Cannon tunnel, with the second place entry being displayed in Whitfield's Washington, D.C., office and third place entry being displayed in his main district office in Hopkinsville.

"Every day as I pass these works of art on my way to the Capitol, I continue to be impressed with our young people's talent," stated Whitfield. "It is truly an honor for a student to have their work exhibited in this location and I encourage all interested students from the First District to submit their work for consideration. I also encourage everyone to check out these students' amazing work after April 25th by 'liking' my Facebook page."

Entries must complete and return the attached three documents when the artwork is submitted. For additional information please visit: http://www.house.gov/content/educate/art_competition/ or http://www.whitfield.house.gov .

The transmission lines start at Kentucky Lake Dam and continue south across Lake Barkley beyond Neville Bay in the south eastern portion of Land Between The Lakes in Tennessee. TVA began the project in the Neville Bay area on Monday and will slowly move north over the next several months.

Land Between The Lakes management asks visitors to take extra safety precautions traveling roads and trails that may cross under the electrical transmission lines during this time period.

For more information regarding TVA and their maintenance on power line right-of-ways, log on to their website at http://www.tva.com/power/rightofway/index.htm.

The following link will take you to Flickr where you will find the photos included in this Media Update, along with photo credits, captions, and additional photos for downloading: https://www.flickr.com/photos/lblkytn/sets

High school juniors and seniors whose parents or guardians receive power from West Kentucky Rural Electric Cooperative are invited to apply for the cooperative’s annual Scholarship Program and Washington Youth Tour program. 

Applications for both programs are now available at high school guidance counselors’ offices, online at www.wkrecc.com, or at any West Kentucky RECC office and are due on March 6. 

The Scholarship Program annually awards eight $1,000 scholarships to high school seniors who will be pursuing higher education in the next year. To be eligible for the program, you must be a high school senior in good standing and your parent or guardian must be a member of and receive electric service from West Kentucky RECC at their principle residence. Two high school seniors from each of the cooperative’s four districts are chosen for the award of academic achievement.   

Two high school juniors in the West Kentucky Rural Electric Cooperative service area are chosen each year to participate in the Rural Electric Youth Tour Program, sponsored jointly by WKRECC and the Kentucky Association of Electric Cooperatives. Students who participate in this program will receive an expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. where they will spend a week with other cooperative representatives touring the city and meeting with Kentucky’s congressional delegation.   

Questions about either program can be directed to Georgann Lookofsky at 270-247-1321 or 1-877-4WKRECC (1-877-495-7322). 

The Empty Bowls food tasting extravaganza will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Trace Creek Baptist Church’s Family Life Center, 3357 State Route 131. All proceeds from the project will go to the Mayfield-Graves County Food Pantry, which provides emergency food for local needy families.

“Last year’s event raised $17,500 for the hungry in this community,” said Claudia Heath, Project Coordinator. “The need is still just as great this year. All the restaurants from 2014 have been contacted and the response has been positive and we expect 20 to 25 restaurants to support this event.”

“Every cent from the ticket sales and silent auction will go directly to the Food Pantry. We have some very nice items collected for the silent auction. In addition to buying the first ticket, Mayor Teresa Cantrell has graciously donated a set of four prints by local artist Ken Crawford showing the Mayfield court square as it was in years gone by. We expect to have hand-thrown bowls by local artisans for the auction also.”

Cher Rambo, owner of Sissy & Me Too, has donated the bowls used at cost. About 1,000 individually hand-painted bowls are needed for the event and about 250 bowls still need to be painted, Heath said. Individuals pay $10 to paint and decorate a bowl, which covers the cost of supplies. The bowls are then turned back over to Sissy & Me Too for firing and glazing.

Persons attending the fund-raiser select a unique bowl, sample the fares from local restaurants and food businesses and then take home the bowl as a reminder of the hungry families around the world and in their own community.

“I cannot thank Cher Rambo of Sissy & Me Too enough for all her time and effort she has put into making the Empty Bowls Project the success it has been,” Heath noted. “Her contributions are invaluable.”

To purchase a ticket or schedule a bowl painting party for your family, church, civic or school group call Sissy & Me Too at 270-247-0008, Trace Creek Church at 270-658-3304, or Heath at 270-705-6062.

The series is a collaboration between the WKCTC’s student development and cultural diversity offices, the Student Multicultural Appreciation Club and the Campus Diversity and Inclusion committee. The programs are designed to reflect the college’s commitment to create and maintain a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming college environment. 

Programs are held on the WKCTC campus and various locations in the community.

The programs for January – June on the WKCTC Campus are as follows.:

January 23

Safe Zone Ally Reception

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Anderson Technical Building Bistro

Members of the college community provide a safe zone to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) student population. The college strives to build trust, support, and a space for celebrating differences, learning, and discovering self-identity. Any LGBT student who experiences challenges will be able to identify safe support systems to build self-confidence and overcome barriers to achievement. 

January 28

Obesity, Culture and Health

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Emerging Technology Center, Room 109

According to the Center for Disease Control, childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and quadrupled in adolescents in the past 30 years. This presentation will identify effective interventions that encourage healthy, eating habits as well as ways to stay in shape. Participants will learn how to improve health through exercise. Presenters will be Tammy Johnson, a nutritionist at Achieve Medical Weight Loss and Greg Vaughn, fitness manager at Stay Fit 24. 

January-May, every Wednesday afternoon

Getting Ahead in a Just Getting By World

1 – 2 p.m., Anderson Technical Building, Room 142

Are you from a low-income family? Learn what it really takes to get ahead. Topics include community resources, resource building, and the hidden rules of economic class. Seminars will be held every Wednesday. Call Jennifer Etherton at 270-534-3257 to register or for more information. Workshops begins January 14. 

February 4

Heart Disease: Women’s Number One Health Threat — A Wake-Up Call Workshop

11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m., Crounse Hall, Room 101

During this one-hour presentation, a mother and daughter will heighten the awareness of heart disease as the number one cause of death in American women. WKCTC’s Chevene Duncan-Herring will discuss her experiences as a survivor of a heart attack at age of 34 and eleven years later surviving triple bypass heart surgery. Her daughter, Verneda Herring, a board certified family nurse practitioner, will discuss how important it is for women to have ongoing dialogue with their medical providers related to heart issues to determine their risk level. 

February 13

Blind Boys of Alabama

7:30 p.m., Clemens Fine Arts Center

Blind Boys of Alabama, a gospel music tradition, first sang together in 1944 at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind. Five-time Grammy winners, the group features eight musicians, including four blind singers. Original member Jimmy Carter is still touring with the group and going strong! Watch for their latest album, I’ll Find a Way, produced by Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon. Purchase tickets at artsinfocus.org or by calling (270) 534-3212. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children. 

February 18

Chinese New Year Celebration – Year of the Sheep

11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m., Student Center

Activities planned for this year’s Chinese New Year Celebration include a performance and information about the year of the sheep, translating English names to Chinese, a presentation about tea culture and a demonstration of how to make South Korean Sushi. 

February 25

Jabali Afrika

11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m., Student Center

Jabali is Kiswahili, Kenya’s national language for “rock.” Jabali Afrika, from east Africa’s Kenya, is a multi-faceted group with its own unique mixture of fusion and African rhythms. Original compositions and traditional African rhythms come alive on a wide variety of instruments, accompanied by vocal harmonies that form the foundation of modern rock, jazz, blues and more.

Dancing and choreography with traditional African tribal costumes will provide the audience with a multicultural experience. 

March 2

In My Shoes: Families Brought Together Through Adoption

11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m., Crounse Hall, Room 101

According to the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute, around 2% of the U.S. population under 18 is adopted. This panel discussion will include both adoptive parents and people who were adopted. Panelists will share their experiences and their advice. A short question-answer time will follow the discussion. 

March 4

Domestic Violence Doesn’t Discriminate

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Emerging Technology Center, Room 109

The impact of violence can affects the physical, emotional, and financial well-being of victims and families. During this presentation, Mary Foley, executive director of Merryman House, will define domestic violence and discuss the services provided by the organization including counseling, employment assistance, and safe shelter. 

March 28

Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story

3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Clemens Fine Arts Center

One of the world’s most successful rock ‘n’ roll musicals continues to thrill audiences around the world! Buddy tells the story of Buddy Holly through his short yet spectacular career, and features the classic song including “Peggy Sue,” “That’ll Be The Day,” “Not Fade Away,” “Oh Boy,” Ritchie Valens’ “La Bamba,” and The Big Bopper’s “Chantilly Lace.” Purchase tickets at artsinfocus.org or by calling (270) 534-3212. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children. 

April 2

Hope Unlimited Family Care Center

1 – 2:30 p.m., Emerging Technology Center, Room 109

During the presentation, participants will learn about Hope Unlimited Family Care Center’s Paducah and Metropolis, Ill., locations that provide faith based hope to individuals and families including making responsible choices, pregnancy, planned parenthood, post-abortion trauma, sexual purity, adoption, under-employment or unemployment. 

April 8

Service Learning Abroad in El Salvador

11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m., Matheson Library

WKCTC students will share reflections on service learning experiences abroad in El Salvador. The discussion topics may include self-awareness, world injustice, relationship building, privileges, poverty, and understanding hardships and joys from other’s reality. Students express what is at the heart of service learning and recognize how to use their talents and knowledge to create a better world. 

April 24

Feet Don’t Fail Me Now

7:30 p.m., Clemens Fine Arts Center

Feet Don’t Fail Me Now is rapid-fire tap dance with high-spirited humor and finger-snapping tunes. Accompanied by a full band, the show treats the audience to a creative experience. In addition to the performance, the Rhythmic Circus Company will also conduct a tap dance workshop on April 24 in the Clemens Fine Arts Center. Purchase tickets at artsinfocus.org or by calling (270) 534-3212. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children. For information, contact Gail Robinson-Butler, WKCTC Clemens Fine Arts Center director, at gail.robinson@kctcs.edu. 

Several programs will also be produced on WKCTC’s Channel 2 to discuss overcoming poverty including Poverty-Mindedness, Identifying Barriers Experiencing Success, and Persisting in the Face of Adversity. Check local listings for program dates and times. 

For more information about WKCTC diversity and inclusion programs, contact Dr. Belinda Dalton-Russell at (270) 534-3081 or belinda.dalton-russell@kctcs.edu. A complete list off-campus programs can be found at westkentucky.kctcs.edu/Student_Life/Cultural_Diversity.aspx.

Runners interested in participating may sign up at www.MurrayHalfMarathon.org and several discount levels are offered based on how early the participant registers. Course information and other important details are also available on the site.

For information on sponsorship opportunities or to find other ways to contribute, call 270-762-1908 or 270-762-1800.  


Information provided by Kyser Lough, Murray-Calloway County Hospital.

Fluor-Paducah recently hosted a town reception at the West Kentucky Community and Technical College. Nearly 100 community leaders came to meet with the FFS leadership. Attendees included members of area chambers of commerce, employees from local banks, and leaders from area schools.

“I was impressed with the turnout and southern hospitality that was shown to us by the Western Kentucky and Southern Illinois region” said Bob Nichols, Fluor Federal Services Paducah Director of Gaseous Diffusion Plant Facilities, Operations, and Infrastructure. “As Fluor‟s presence in Paducah continues to expand, we look forward to hosting more of these types of activities so that our leadership can build the vital relationships necessary to execute the strategy at the Department of Energy site.

With the holiday season upon us, FFS took the opportunity to give back to the community in a variety of different ways. Over the past month, Fluor has made $10,000 in charitable contributions to the following local organizations:
* McCracken County—Martha‟s Vineyard
* Ballard County—Family Focus Family Resource and Youth Service Center
* Marshall County—Caring Needline and Marcella‟s Kitchen
* Carlisle County—S.T.A.R. Family Resource Center
* Graves County—Mayfield-Graves County Need Line and Food Pantry and Operation Not 1 Missed

“We are pleased to give back to the community, especially during this holiday season of giving,” said Con Murphy, Program Manager for Fluor Federal Services. “We view our job as not only working to deactivate the gaseous diffusion plant, but also using our resources to „give back‟ and we were pleased to do just that.”

Busy holiday schedules and seasonal illnesses, like the flu, can often mean fewer donors giving blood. But for patients with cancer or other illnesses or injuries requiring blood transfusions, the need for blood is constant and doesn’t get a holiday break. The gift of a blood donation only takes about an hour and can give patients a chance to celebrate more holidays to come.

To encourage donations and show appreciation, all those who attempt to donate blood Dec. 24 through Jan. 4, 2015, will receive a long-sleeve Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.

Eligible donors with all blood types are needed, especially those with type O negative, A negative or B negative. To learn more about donating blood and to schedule an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit www.redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Upcoming blood donation opportunities

Paducah Blood Donor Center at 4635 Falconcrest Drive is open:
· Monday - 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
· Tuesday - 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
· Wednesday - Closed
· 2nd, 3rd Thursday of month - 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
· Friday - 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
· Saturday - 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
· 1st, 4th, 5th Sunday of month - 7 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Paducah Apheresis (Platelet Donation) Center at 4635 Falconcrest Drive is open:
· Monday - 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
· Tuesday - 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
· Wednesday - Thursday - Closed
· Friday - 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
· Saturday - 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.
· 1st, 4th, 5th Sunday of month - 7 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Ballard
La Center
12/18/2014: 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Ballard County Cooperative Extension Office, 110 Broadway

Wickliffe
12/29/2014: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., City Hall, 321 Court Street

Calloway
Murray
12/18/2014: 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1601 Main Street
12/23/2014: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Wal-Mart, Hwy 641 North

Fulton
Fulton
12/30/2014: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Parkway Regional Hospital, 2000 Holiday Drive

Graves
Mayfield
12/16/2014: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., American Legion, 211 South 7th
12/23/2014: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., His House Ministries, 1250 State Route 303

Marshall
Benton
12/16/2014: 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Benton Church of Christ, 3901 Main Street
12/22/2014: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Walmart, 310 West 5th Street
12/22/2014: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., Aurora-Ross Fire Department Ladies Auxillary, 8280 Aurora Hwy
Calvert City
12/26/2014: 3 p.m. - 7 p.m., Altona Baptist Church, 5817 US HWY 62
12/29/2014: 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Calvert City Church of Christ, 4625 US Highway 62

McCracken
Paducah
12/17/2014: 2:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Lone Oak Church of Christ, 2960 Lone Oak Road
12/19/2014: 7 a.m. - 1 p.m., Baptist Health Paducah, 2501 Kentucky Avenue
West Paducah
12/28/2014: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 9701 Blandville Road

It's easy to donate blood. Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit www.redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

For the seventy-five years between 1854 and 1929, an estimated 250,000 orphaned, abandoned, and homeless children were placed with families throughout the United States and Canada during the Orphan Train Movement, according to the National Orphan Train Complex. 

This year’s One Book, One Campus, One Community Read of New York Times best-selling author, Christina Baker Kline’s, Orphan Train, opens the door to the story of the children and teenagers being sent on orphan trains in hopes of finding a better way of life.

“We have found that many people today have never heard about the orphan trains or the thousands of children that left behind devastating circumstances and traveled to uncertain futures,” said Gail Robinson-Butler, Clemens Fine Arts Center director. “We want to change that with this year’s One Book Read of Orphan Train – a remarkable story of how to face the past, deal with the present, and look toward the future.”

The book centers on Vivian Daly, a young Irish immigrant who was orphaned in New York City and boarded a train to the Midwest, changing her life forever. During this vulnerable time, Vivian was forced to learn new life skills, and sewing was near the top of the list.

“To share this aspect of the book, we are presenting ‘Sewing with Angie York’ as our first One Book event,” said Butler. York will visit the WKCTC campus to teach participants the techniques of creating hand-embroidered greeting cards and yo-yo quilt blocks. The embroidered class begins at 2 p.m. and the quilt class begins at 6 p.m. Both classes, which are free and open to the public, will be held in the Emerging Technology Center, Room 140.

Later in life, Vivian meets 17-year-old Molly Ayer who is close to “aging out” of the foster care system - something Vivian knows all too well. Molly helping the elderly Vivian clean out her attic that is packed with possessions and memories from the past is the only thing keeping Molly out of trouble in the juvenile system. Vivian and Molly learn they aren’t as different as they seem to be; they learn about friendship and second chances.

The One Book, One Campus, One Community Read project is a community wide effort to encourage reading throughout the community with the hope of improving regional literacy rates. The project encourages the community, area school districts, and colleges to read the same book and come together to discuss it in a variety of settings.

Future One Book events, to create awareness of the read and the book, will be announced in the months prior to the project finale when Christina Baker Kline will visit the WKCTC campus on March 31 and April 1, 2015. For more information about Kline’s visit, Orphan Train, and the One Book, One Campus, One Community Read, visit http://westkentucky.kctcs.edu/Student_Life/OneBook.aspx .


Information provided by WKCTC.