Medical Leader News

Tug Valley Relay increases goal to $75,000 this year

Fri, 09 May 2008 15:45:41 GMT

WILLIAMSON, W.Va. - The Tug Valley Relay for Life event raised a record $64,000 for cancer research and services last year and organizers of this year's event hope to break that record by raising at least $75,000.

Organizers of the annual event, which is set to take place Friday, July 25 at Lefty Hamilton Park, say they are on track to raise that amount and believe the fundraising events scheduled between now and then will allow them to hit the mark.

"We've got some people who care and are very generous," Relay Co-Chairman Ray Justice said about Pike and Mingo county residents during a recent organizational meeting.

Relay organizers have a number of events planned in the final two months leading up to the survivor-themed event. In addition to selling chances to win an all-terrain vehicle, bandanas featuring a Survivor logo, luminaries and purple ribbons, relay participants have planned a series of road blocks in both Goody and Williamson, W.Va.

Sporting events such as three-on-three basketball and volleyball tournaments as well as bowl-a-thon are also being planned as fundraising events.

Anyone wishing to enter a team in this year's relay may do so by June 5. A team meeting will be held at 5 p.m., Thursday, June 5, at Williamson Memorial Hospital.

Identity Theft Local FBI agent speaks to Rotary Club

Fri, 09 May 2008 15:43:47 GMT

AT THE ROTARY CLUB: FBI Agent Steve Spahn addressed members of the Pikeville Rotary Club last week about the dangers of identity theft.

PIKEVILLE - FBI Special Agent Steve Spahn addressed the Pikeville Rotary Club last week about ways to prevent identity theft.

"This is a serious problem in our country," Spahn said. "More than 10 million people each year become the victims of identity theft and the numbers exceed $53 billion."

Spahn, who works out the Pikeville office, said it is becoming more difficult to keep personal information out of the hands of skilled identity thieves.

"There are more than 5,000 calls weekly into our offices around the country," Spahn said. "Ironically, I have become a victim of this crime."

He told Rotary members to be extremely careful when they throw away any mail that may have personal identification information on it.

"Thieves will get your information through the internet, or by stealing your mail from the mailbox, or even by going through your trash," he said.

Many identity theft victims are not even aware that personal information has been stolen. Spahn encouraged those in attendance to shred or burn anything they don't plan to keep that has personal data printed on it.

He said culprits may call credit card companies to change the billing address on credit card accounts, or they may open a new credit card accounts in the victim's name.

"Make sure you are getting credit card statements regularly reach month as well as bank statements," he said. "If not, call and see why."

He said people who have become victims of identity crimes may spend years and thousands of dollars trying to clear up their name and credit record.

"Occasionally, some victims have recurring problems," he said.

He said everyone should review their credit reports at least once every three months in the first year after becoming a victim and at least once a year thereafter.

"Even if you're not a victim, your chances of becoming one are always there," he said. "Just stay alert."

He also reminded Rotarians to never give out personal information over the telephone, through the mail, or on the internet.

"Do this only if you've initiated the contact or you are sure you know who you're dealing with," he added.

Most thieves receive very little punishment for their crimes.

"Since it's not a murder, rape or someone being hurt it's not considered a harsh crime," Spahn said. "Time spent in jail for these crimes isn't very much at all."

If you feel you've been a victim of identity theft please call the identity theft hotline at (877) 438-4338.

Obituaries

Fri, 09 May 2008 14:42:47 GMT

Dr. Robert Bevins
1922 - 2008

Dr. Robert H. Bevins, 86, of Pikeville, died Tuesday, April 29, 2008, at his home.

He was born, Jan. 17, 1922, the son of the late George Condor Bevins and Lena May Stepp Bevins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Ruth Reid.

He is survived by his wife, Lois Huffman Bevins; one son, Robert H. Bevins Jr., of Pikeville; one daughter, Bari Lynn Bevins of Lexington; two sisters, Nell Hatcher of Pikeville, and Geraldine Haywood of Louisville; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Friday, May 2, at J.W. Call Funeral Home Chapel.

Burial followed in Johnson Memorial Park, at Pikeville.

Millard Hamilton
1920 - 2008

Millard Hamilton, 87, of Pikeville, died Friday, April 25, 2008.

He was born at Grassy Creek, June 24, 1920, a son of the late Clark and Margaret Jane Thacker Hamilton.

He was also preceded in death by seven brothers, Bert Hamilton, Raymond Hamilton, Clark Hamilton Jr., Earl Hamilton, Clyde Hamilton, Smith Hamilton and Clarence Hamilton; and one sister, Nellie Jane Newsome.

He is survived by two sons, Clyde Hamilton of Ariton, Ala., and Millard Kenneth Hamilton of Fort Worth, Texas; two daughters, Margie Hamilton- Belanger and Debbie Hamilton Ostrowski, both of Plymouth, Mich.; one sister, Effie Mullins of Jonancy; five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held, Tuesday, April 29, at Lucas and Son Funeral Home Chapel.

Burial followed in the Annie E. Young Cemetery, at Chloe Road.

Arrangements were under the direction of Lucas and Son Funeral Home, at Pikeville.

Billy Johnson Sr.
1930 - 2008

Billy Eugene Johnson Sr., 77, of Myers Towers, Pikeville, died Friday, April 25, 2008.

He was born, Oct. 28, 1930, a son of the late Rush Merlyn and Katherine Mattingly Johnson.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife, Madeline Sue Belcher Johnson; infant son; one brother, Daniel Johnson; and one sister, Barbara Robinson.

He is survived by two sons, Billy Eugene Johnson Jr. of Yellow Hill and John David Johnson of Pikeville; one brother, John Edward Johnson of Newport, Va.; two sisters, Mary Alice Wallace of Dorton and Nancy Akers of Pikeville; three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Funeral services were held Wednesday,April 30, at Lucas and Son Funeral Home.

Burial followed in the Annie E. Young Cemetery, Chloe Road.

Arrangements were under the direction of Lucas and Son Funeral Home of Pikeville.

Josephine Shumate
1916 - 2008

Josephine Shumate, 91, of Virgie, died Saturday, April 26, 2008, at Pikeville Medical Center.

She was born, Nov. 14, 1916, a daughter of the late Cam and Eve Adkins.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Wesley Shumate; one son; six brothers; and one sister.

She is survived by two sons, Wesley J. Shumate of Tyler, Texas, and Robert B. Shumate of San Antonio, Texas; one daughter, Nancy Jo Bowers of Lexington; one sister, Maude Heidmous of Lompoc, Calif.; seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Thursday, May 1, at Lucas and Son Funeral Home Chapel.

Burial followed in the Cam Adkins Family Cemetery.

Arrangements were under the direction of Lucas and Son Funeral Home of Pikeville.

Ethan Thacker
2008

Ethan Kyle Thacker, infant son of Kevin and Reanna Smith Thacker of Pikeville, died Monday, April 28, 2008.

He was born April 28, 2008.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his maternal grandparents, Bob and Lois Smith of Feds Creek; paternal grandparents, Jim and Kay Thacker of Shelby Valley; great-grandmothers, Betty Jo Ramey of New Caney, Texas, and Elizabeth Marrs of Shelby Valley; three uncles, Robert (Tonya) Smith, Bobby Joe (Joanna) Smith, and Keith Thacker; one aunt, Conni (Ricky) Hackney. Graveside services were held, Thursday, May 1, at Marrs Cemetery, Branham Heights.

Arrangements were under the direction of Lucas & Son Funeral Home of Pikeville.

Shirley Davidson
1948 - 2008

Shirley Jean Parker Davidson, 59, of Centertown, formerly of Marrowbone, died Monday, April 28, 2008.

She was born, Oct. 2, 1948, a daughter of the late Casey and Betty Thompson Parker.

She is survived by her husband, Bernie W. Davidson; three daughters, Angela Hackney and Paula Little, both of Centertown, and Misty Tackett of Robinson Creek; one sister, Louetta Bickford of Salyersville; and six grandchildren.

Funeral services were held, Saturday, May 3, at Lucas and Son Funeral Home, at Pikeville.

Burial followed in the Annie E. Young Cemetery, at Chloe Road.

Arrangements were under the direction of Lucas and Son Funeral Home, of Pikeville.

Jo Williamson
1932 - 2008

Jo Anna Ray Williamson, 76, of Varney, died Saturday, May 3, 2008.

She was born, March 27, 1932, a daughter of the late Joe Ray and Vada Williamson Ray Muncy.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an infant son, Palmer; stepfather, Bascum Muncy; two brothers; and three sisters.

She is survived by one son, Ralph Thomas Williamson of Milan, Mich.; four brothers, Jay Dee Muncy of Arnesville, Ohio, Claude Muncy and Freddie Muncy, both of Varney, and Eddie Muncy of Columbia, Tenn.; two sisters, Mildred Woodson of Berea and Mary Stevens of Sidney; and four grandchildren.

Funeral services were held, Wednesday, May 7, at Lucas and Son Funeral Home Chapel.

Burial followed in Bent Ridge Cemetery, at Meta.

Arrangements were under the direction of Lucas and Son Funeral Home of Pikeville.

Mertie Hackney
1922 - 2008

Mertie Varney Hackney, 85, of Mouthcard, died Sunday, May 4, 2008.

She was born, Dec. 5, 1922, a daughter of the late Cleveland and Mary Honaker Varney.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two sons, Clifton Hackney and Clinton Hackney; six brothers; and one sister.

She is survived by three sons, Estle F. Hackney and Carl Hackney, both of Mouthcard, and Charlie Hackney of Virginia; two daughters, Jewel France and Julia Wolford, both of Mouthcard; one brother, Jonah Bevins of Kimper; one sister, Mae McCan of Ohio; 12 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, May 7, 2008 at New Zion Freewill Baptist Church.

Burial followed in Mountain Valley Memorial Park, at Big Rock, Va.

Arrangements were under the direction of Lucas and Son Funeral Home, of Pikeville.

Goma Webb
1927 - 2008

Goma Webb, 81, of Grapevine, died Monday, April 7, 2008.

She was born March 17, 1927, the daughter of the late Troy and Lucy Abshire Ward.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ervel "Eub" Webb; two sisters, Orphan Taylor and Opal Good; and one brother, John Ward.

She is survived by two brothers, Clifford Ward of Lexington, Troy Zeldon Ward of Scottsdale Ariz; three sisters, Roma Scott of Phyllis, Imal Ramey of Kimper, Vivian Johnson of Flat Rock Mich.; and a host of loving nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Friday, April 11, 2008, at Upper Grapevine Church of Christ .

Burial followed in the Webb Family Cemetery.

Arrangements were under the direction of Lucas and Son Funeral Home.

Joseph Thacker
1941 - 2008

Joseph Lawson Thacker, 66, of Huddy, died Saturday, April 26, 2008.

He was born October 7, 1941, the son of the late Willie and Ida Chapman Thacker.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his wife, Leary Mae Thacker; five brothers, James William, Willie, Lenoral, Jim and Dan Thacker; one granddaughter, Chelsea Blake Jarrell; and great-grandson, Mason.

He is survived by one daughter, Joann Jarrell of Williamson, W.Va., two brothers, John Thacker of St. Augustine, Fla., David Thacker of Delaware; three sisters, Ella Mae Crossman of Phoenix, Ariz., Brenda Thacker of Ypsilanti, Mich., and Rosetta Compton of Delaware; five grandchildren; and four great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, April 30, 2008 at the McVeigh United Pentecostal Church at McVeigh.

Burial followed in the Mountain View Memory Gardens, at Huddy.

Arrangements were under the direction of the R.E. Rogers Funeral Home.

Harriet Pack
1948 - 2008

Harriet Jean Pack, 60, of Vonore, Tenn., formerly of Belfry, Ky., died Tuesday, April 29, 2008.

She was born April 7, 1948, the daughter of the late Earl Jack and Helen Louise Williams.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Glen E. Pack; and one brother, Greg Williams.

She is survived by one son, Glen E Pack II of Loudon, Tenn.; one daughter, Heather J Pack of Vonore, Tenn.; one brother, Bryon Williams of Belfry, Ky., and one nephew, Jack Williams of Belfry.

Funeral services were held Friday, May 2, 2008 at the R.E. Rogers Funeral Home of Belfry.

Burial followed in the Slater Cemetery at Falls Branch. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the R.E. Rogers Funeral Home .

April Russell
1957 - 2008

April Stroud Smith Russell, 51, of Rawl, died Wednesday, April 30, 2008.

She was born April 19, 1957, the daughter of the late Werner Roger and Vernonetta Yarbour Adkins.

She is survived by one son, Steven Darrell Smith of Richmond; two stepchildren, Jerry "Fred" Russell and Justin Russell, both of Williamson, W.Va.; six brothers, Randy Adkins and Kenneth Stroud, both of Canada, Roger Stroud of Richmond, Richard Stroud of Portsmouth, Ohio, McArthur Stroud of Corpus Christie, Texas, and Minis Stroud of Turkey Creek, three sisters, Carmen Maynard of Williamson, Norma Jean Scott of Hardy, Ky., and Victoria Stroud of Canada, Ky., and five grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Saturday, May 3, 2008 at R.E. Rogers Funeral Home.

Burial followed in the Maynard Cemetery on Stratton Fork at Canada.

Arrangements were under the direction of the R.E. Rogers Funeral Home.

Sidney Roehrer
1922 - 2008

Sidney G. Roehrer, 85, of New Camp Road, South Williamson, died Thursday, May 1, 2008.

He was born May 7, 1922, the son of the late William and Emma New Roehrer.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen Stanley Roehrer of South Williamson; one daughter, Barbara Rymill of Michigan; three step daughters, Vera Hankins of Burgin, Karen Jones of Vinton, Va., and Cindy Morrison of Delbarton, W.Va.; one sister, Elizabeth Reed of Kenova; four grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Sunday, May 4, 2008 at R.E. Rogers Funeral Home, at Belfry.

Burial followed in Mountain View Memory Gardens, at Huddy.

Arrangements were under the direction of the R.E. Rogers Funeral Home.

Maxine Marian
1935 - 2008

Maxine Marian, 73, of Aflex, died Thursday, May 1, 2008.

She was born Feb. 4, 1935, the daughter of the late Taylor and Eva Gordon Napier.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by two sisters, Linda Runyon and Aline Slone.

She is survived by her husband, Franklin Marian; one son, Benjamin Marian of Aflex; one daughter, Adline Bowling of Mayodan, N.C.; three sisters, Lorrine Woods of Grand Rapids Mich., Delores Jean Hylton of Aflex, Ky., and Pauline Richardson of Fort Wayne, Ind.; several nieces and nephews; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Monday, May 5, 2008 at R.E. Rogers Funeral Home, of Belfry.

Burial followed at the Mountain View Memory Gardens, Huddy. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of R.E. Rogers Funeral Home.

Anna Pasquale
1910 - 2008

Anna Chapman Pasquale, 97, of Huntington, formerly of Belfry, died Wednesday, April 30, 2008.

She was born August 24, 1910, the daughter of the late Bud and Alice May Chapman.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Santa Pasquale; and one son, Theodore Thompson.

She is survived by one son, William Thompson of Chesapeake, Ohio; several grandchildren; great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Saturday, May 3, 2008 at R.E. Rogers Funeral Home Chapel, of Belfry.

Burial followed in the Highland Cemetery in Huntington, W.Va.

Arrangements were under the direction of the R.E. Rogers Funeral Home, of Belfry.

Williamson Justice
1940 - 2008

William Edgar Justice, 68, of Ransom, died Sunday, May 4, 2008.

He was born March 2, 1940, the son of the late Eli and Belvie Justice.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a daughter, Shirley Justice; and four brothers, Bennie, Dealis Ray, Danny and Thurman Justice.

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie Lee Justice; two sons, William Edgar Justice II of Lewisburg, Tenn., and Danny C. Justice of Flint, Mich.; three stepchildren, Billy R. Ball of Olney, Ill., Bonita Hubbard of Dials Branch, and Chester Ball of Ransom, two brothers, Clyde Justice of Flint, Mich., and Jim Allen Justice of Waterford, Mich.; one sister, Shirley Justice, of Flint, Mich.; 15 grandchildren; host of greatgrandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, May 7, 2008 at Bluesprings Freewill Baptist Church, with the Bluesprings Freewill Baptist Church Ministers officiating.

Burial followed in the Bluesprings Freewill Baptist Church Cemetery. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of R.E. Rogers Funeral Home.

Peggy Thacker
1926 - 2008

Peggy Jane Thacker, 82, of, Elkhorn City, died Thursday, May 1, 2008.

She was born, April 21, 1926, a daughter of the late Greenville Isaac and Darcus Thacker.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by one daughter, Ave' Jean Worrix; five brothers, James Epperson Thacker, John Nelson Thacker, Elisha Thacker, Jeff Thacker and Jessie Elzie Thacker; and one sister, Mollie Adams.

She is survived by one daughter, Shirley Worrix of Pikeville.

Funeral services were held, Sunday, May 4, 2008 at Pikeville Funeral Home Chapel.

Burial followed in the Annie E. Young Cemetery, at Shelbiana.

Arrangements were under the direction of Pikeville Funeral Home of Pikeville.

Verda Stewart
1928 - 2008

Verda Marie Stewart, 80, of Island Creek, died Monday, May 5, 2008, at her home.

She was born in Pike County, Jan. 2, 1928, a daughter of the late William and Mecie Dye Akers.

She was a homemaker and of the Baptist faith.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dock Morgan Stewart; one son, Freddie Isaac Stewart; one brother, William Everett Akers; two sisters, Jane Irick and Polly Akers; and one grandchild, Debra Dawn Stewart.

She is survived by one son, Randall Lee Stewart; one daughter, Reba Gay Stewart-Burchett; five grandchildren; nine greatgrandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held, Thursday, May 8, in the Island Creek Regular Baptist Church.

Burial followed in Johnson Memorial Park, at Pikeville.

Arrangements were under the direction of Thacker Funeral Home of Pikeville.

Levi Howell
1938 - 2008

Levi Howell, 69, of Harold, died Thursday, April 24, 2008.

He was born, Sept. 3, 1938, the son of the late Jeff and Phena Adkins Howell.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by two brothers, Tracy Howell and Buford Howell; and three sisters, Holly Bea Sterling, Flora Sue McQuen and Geneva Hunter.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley Gillespie Howell; one son, Justin Howell of Galveston; three daughters, Barbara Ellen Keathley of Grethel, Susann Mullins of Harold, and Esta Mae Akers of Galveston; two brothers, Kermit Howell of Ligon, and Willie Howell of Ohio; two sisters, Melissa Martin of Grayson, and Phyllis Coleman of Somerset; eight grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Sunday, April 27, 2008 at Nelson Frazier Funeral Home, at Martin.

Burial followed in the Howell Family Cemetery, at Branhams Creek, Galveston.

Arrangements were under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home.

Douglas Jarvis
1947 - 2008

Douglas Jarvis, 60, of Van Lear, died Tuesday, April 29, 2008.

He was born May 22, 1947, son of the late Edgar Jarvis and Nellie Endicott Jarvis Dale.

In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by six brothers, Esau Jarvis, George Jarvis, Mick Jarvis, Monroe Jarvis, Greene Jarvis and Estill Dale.

He is survived by his wife, Marlene Sturgill Jarvis; two sons, Danny Cornelison of Ypsilanti, Mich., and Sheldon Douglas Jarvis, of Van Lear; two daughters, Drema K. Hunt of Ashland and Debbie Cleavinger of Pinckney, Mich.; five brothers and four sisters, Luther Jarvis, of Pikeville, Jake Jarvis of Banner; Edgar Jarvis of Tram; Merlin Dale, Frances Vanover and Pat Hamilton, all of Stanville; Don Dale, of Ivel, Alice Graves, of Tennessee, Sandra Justice, of Betsy Layne; 11 grandchildren; and two greatgrandchildren.

Funeral services were held Saturday, May 3, 2008 at Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, at Martin.

Arrangements were under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home.

Stella DeRossett
1924 - 2008

Stella DeRossett, 87, of Dwale, died Sunday, May 4, 2008.

She was born, April 18, 1924, the daughter of the late Joe and Mary Compton Hall.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Sol DeRossett; four brothers, John Fields, Riley Fields, Oke Fields, Olen Fields; and one sister, Rinia Mae Hall.

She is survived by one son, Billy David DeRossett of Dwale; two grandchildren; and a loving host of family and friends.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, May 6, 2008 at Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, at Martin.

Burial followed in the Dwale Community Cemetery, at Dwale.

Arrangements were under the direction of Nelson-Frazier Funeral Home, at Martin

Mining statue planned

Fri, 09 May 2008 14:32:16 GMT

IN HONOR OF MINERS: Pike County Judge-Executive Wayne T. Rutherford addressed those in attendance during Coal Miners Appreciation Day on May 1 at the Pike County Courthouse. A small-scale replica of a coal miner statue was unveiled during the ceremony.

PIKEVILLE - Coal mining has been the heart and soul of Appalachia and eastern Kentucky since the first Pike County mine went into operation back in 1854.

Pike County Judge-Executive Wayne T. Rutherford announced on May 1 that the county has plans to erect a miner's statue outside the Pike County Courthouse.

"Pike County coal is Pike County's economy," Rutherford said during a Coal Miner Appreciation Day ceremony at the Pike County Courthouse. "This should have been done years ago."

The statue will commemorate the many dedicated coal miners across the county and those who have lost their lives on the job.

Rutherford said the effort to have the statue placed on the courthouse grounds would be a joint project involving county officials, the local coal mining industry and private citizens.

"We are the number one coal-producing county in the Commonwealth, and we should have something to pay tribute to the people who make that possible," he added.

Disabled coal miner Kermit Wright, who is an elder with the Caney Creek Old Regular Baptist Church, said miners have felt "neglected" over the years.

"I've never been ashamed to say that I'm a coal miner from eastern Kentucky," he said.

He delivered the opening prayer for the ceremony and said the county should remember all those coal miners who have lost their lives.

"We have much to be thankful for," Wright said. "Coal mining has been a part of our community for a long, long time."

Kentucky Coal Academy President Dr. Bill Higginbotham said his group was taking steps to make the coal-mining industry safer.

"Coal miners are the driving force behind this industry and any gesture to recognize them is certainly well deserved," he said. "From Pikeville to Madisonville, our purpose is to help make mining safer and less destructive."

Coal is King: Demand worldwide has prices skyrocketing

Fri, 09 May 2008 14:27:36 GMT

WILLIAMSON, W.Va. - With coal prices spiking - and the demand for coal surging in overseas markets - local coal companies are experiencing tremendous growth.

And coal - taken from the mountains of eastern Kentucky and southern West Virginia - is fueling economies worldwide.

The National Mining Association says the value of coal exports grew by 19 percent last year to $4.1 billion. That margin is expected to grow this year.

Employment ads line newspapers across the region. Companies in eastern Kentucky have formed a partnership agreement with Big Sandy Community and Technical College to form the Kentucky Coal Academy, a collaborative effort for workforce development that trains soon-to-be miners and works with local companies to place students in particular jobs. Asimilar program - the West Virginia Coal Academy - exists at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College's Logan, W.Va. campus.

Big swings in the prices of coal and other commodities are common. But while the price of coal has slipped slightly in recent weeks, many analysts and companies are wondering whether high prices are here to stay.

As increasing numbers of the world's poor join the middle classes, hooking up to electricity grids and buying up more manufactured goods, demand for coal grows.

World consumption of coal has grown 30 percent in the past six years, twice as much as any other energy source. About two-thirds of the fuel supplies electricity plants, and just under a third of the fuel supplies industrial users (mostly steel and concrete makers).

As the demand for coal - in the U.S. and across the globe - continues to rise, it could prove difficult to maintain the role as the world's largest producer for coal.

Massey Energy, a Richmond, Va.-based company that operates mining operations in Pike and Mingo counties, announced last month a $310 million expansion that will result in a new mine opening every 17 days this year. This ambitious move could increase production by 25 percent by 2010.

The company's net income increased 28.5 percent during the first quarter of 2006, earning $41.9 million - an increase of nearly 10 million over the first quarter of 2007.

Massey's improvement was driven largely by revenue. The company increased produced revenue 4.5 percent to $543.2 million, and received higher cash margin per ton, which increased 8.5 percent.

A big part of meeting the demand for coal is employee retention.

Alpha Natural Resources, based in Abingdon, Va., recently announced a $13 million retention package at its 58 mining operations, including White Flame Energy in Varney. W.Va.

As the nation's largest supplier and exporter of Metallurgical coal (a key ingredient in steel manufacturing) and with 89 percent of its reserves high BTU coal, the company hopes that the incentive package, which averages an increase of $3 per hour, will keep a competent and experienced workforce intact during the high demand for coal.

"Today, coal finds itself squarely in the middle of our nation's discussion on energy independence," Alpha Natural Resources President Kevin Crutchfield said. "It's time we readied ourselves for an exciting future."

According to the National Mining Association, a ton of coal that sold for $44.75 a year ago is now selling for $85.50. The rising price and demand globally has an experienced workforce, with the average age of 50, seeking to redefine itself.

As countries continue to develop, the demand for coal consumption - for energy and steel - will continue to rise.

Consol Energy, which operates a mining operation in Mingo County, announced earlier this month that coal exports had risen 30 percent (versus last year's figures) for the first two months of the year.

Another local coal company, International Coal, expects to sell about 20 million tons of coal at an average selling price of $51 to $52.50 a ton, up from the previous estimate of $47 to $48 a ton this year.

Mike Whitt, the director of the Mingo County Redevelopment Authority, said in an interview earlier this year that coal provides a stimulus to the economies of the entire region. It is predicted that nine jobs are created for every coal-related job.

"We can all remember when coal was king," he said. "While our organization continues to work with the mining industry to develop post-mine sites, we understand that the foundation of our economy is coal."

Caught in the storm: Pikeville natives pick up pieces after tornado strikes home

Fri, 09 May 2008 14:18:20 GMT

DAMAGE: Lt. Cade C. Cinnamond, his wife, Jenny, and their two children were not injured when a tornado tore through their home in southern Virginia earlier this month

SUFFOLK, Va. - A former Pikeville couple is picking up the pieces left behind by tornados that struck southern Virginia last month.

Pikeville College School of Osteopathic Medicine graduate Lt. Cade C. Cinnamond and his wife, Jenny, had only lived in their new home - their first home - for two weeks before three tornados hit southern Virginia, injuring 200 people and devastating homes.

The couple lived in Pikeville for four years while Cinnamond attended college, but they moved to the Suffolk area last June, where they rented until April, when they bought their new two-story home.

Cade, a surgeon, works the night shift at the Portsmouth Naval Hospital, where he will complete his residency program. He was home at 4:17 p.m. when the tornado funneled through his neighborhood.

"My 3-year-old daughter [Cassia], my 6-month-old [Caden] and I were sitting in the family room near a window in the back of the house watching the storm come in," Jenny said. "It was pretty dark outside, so I knew it'd be a bad storm. There was a lot of thunder and lightening. All of a sudden, it got really, really dark and the wind started to pick up. I ran upstairs to wake up my husband."

Cade came running out of the upstairs bedroom, and when the family started down the stairs, three windows broke downstairs. A tree had fallen into the back of the house. They took their children in the upstairs bathroom, Jenny said, and the storm was "over in the blink of an eye."

"It sounds just like a freight train, like everyone says," Jenny said. "Cade looked out the bedroom window and saw the siding coming off the neighbor's house. Then, everything just went white. That's when we knew the tornado had passed."

The house was "basically hit with debris" from the tornado, which hit two other homes in the neighborhood, Jenny said. Her neighbor's roof landed on the outside of the couple's fence, which was tattered and torn down by the tornado. An air conditioning unit was banged up, and gutters on the home were damaged. She said a six to eight-inch piece of plastic sliced through the deck railing, splitting it in half.

"Our roof is missing shingles, but, luckily, there are no holes," Jenny said

She doesn't understand how the tornado destroyed a neighbor's home and damaged another home there, while hitting only the back part of her home. Nothing moved on the neighbor's porch across the street, she said, and nothing happened to the front of her home.

"She just asks me every day, 'Mommy, what happened?'" Jenny said, about her 3-old-daughter Cassia, who was born in Pikeville. "When we went out to look at things and to see if everyone was okay, I was carrying her on my shoulder and she said, 'Don't worry, Mommy, we'll fix your house.' Out of everything she could have said, that's the one thing she said. It's pretty amazing for her to realize that."

Jenny said the neighbors pulled together to help them after the storm. Several neighbors helped them hammer plywood over the broken windows and one neighbor offered to baby sit so that she can pick up broken glass in the backyard.

"Everybody kind of pulls together when you have mass destruction like this," she said. "We're very lucky in comparison to the damage that a lot of people received."

Family members back home are thankful that the couple and their children were unharmed.

"Thankfully, it was one of the smaller ones that went through the area that they live in," Cade's mother, Carrie Cinnamond, said. "It's sad and it's not. There's always mixed feelings, but they're glad because they're doing so well. They can rebuild. They at least have a starting point. A lot of other people didn't."

Strokes: Recovery is life-long process

Fri, 09 May 2008 14:08:50 GMT

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

Stroke Statistics

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States. Of the more than 700,000 people affected every year, about 500,000 of these are first attacks, and 200,000 are recurrent attacks. About 25 percent of people who recover from their first stroke will have another stroke within five years.

Stroke is a leading cause of serious long-term disability for an estimated 5.4 million stroke survivors currently alive today.

The American Heart Association estimates that in 2003, stroke cost about $51.2 billion in both direct and indirect costs in the United States alone. Understanding the factors that increase your risk of a stroke and recognizing the symptoms may help you prevent a stroke. Receiving early diagnosis and treatment may improve your chances for complete recovery.

What is stroke?

Stroke is an abrupt interruption of constant blood flow to the brain that causes loss of neurological function. The interruption of blood flow can be caused by a blockage, leading to the more common ischemic stroke, or by bleeding in the brain, leading to the more deadly hemorrhagic stroke.

Ischemic stroke constitutes an estimated 80 percent of all stroke cases. Stroke may occur suddenly, sometimes with little or no warning, and the results can be devastating. It is crucial that proper blood flow and oxygen be restored to the brain as soon as possible. Without oxygen and important nutrients, the affected brain cells are either damaged or die within a few minutes. Once brain cells die, they cannot regenerate, and devastating damage may occur, sometimes resulting in physical, cognitive and mental disabilities.

What are the risk factors for stroke?

Although they are more common in older adults, strokes can occur at any age.

Controllable or treatable risk factors for stroke include: smoking, high blood pressure, carotid or other artery disease, history of transient ischemic attacks, or mini strokes, diabetes, high blood cholesterol: physical inactivity and obesity.

What are the symptoms of a stroke?

The range and severity of early stroke symptoms vary, but strokes occur suddenly. Warning signs may include some or all of the following symptoms:

Dizziness, nausea, or vomiting, unusually severe headache, confusion, disorientation or memory loss, numbness, weakness in an arm, leg or the face, especially on one side, abnormal or slurred speech, difficulty with comprehension, loss of vision or difficulty seeing, loss of balance, coordination or the ability to walk.

What are the effects of a stroke?

The effects of a stroke depend on the location in the brain affected by the stroke and the length of time a it takes a person to get treated (or the extent of brain tissue affected before treatment).One side of the brain controls the opposite side of the body, so a stroke affecting the right side will result in neurological complications on the left side of the body. A stroke on the right side may result in the following: paralysis on the left side of the body, vision problems, quick, inquisitive behavior, memory loss. A stroke on the left side may result in the following: paralysis on the right side of the body, speech/language problems, slow, cautious behavior, memory loss.

How are strokes treated?

Rehabilitation may involve a number of medical specialists, but the early diagnosis of a stroke, its treatment or its prevention, can be undertaken by a neurosurgeon. Rapid and accurate diagnosis of the kind of stroke and the exact location of its damage is critical to successful treatment. Such technical advances as the use of the operating microscope (microsurgery) and the surgical laser have made it possible to treat stroke problems that were thought to be inoperable a few years ago.

Recovery and rehabilitation are important aspects of stroke treatment. In some cases, undamaged areas of the brain may be able to perform functions that were lost when the stroke occurred.

Rehabilitation includes physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy. Physical therapy involves using exercise and other physical means (e.g., massage, heat) and may help patients regain the use of their arms and legs and prevent muscle stiffness in patients with permanent paralysis. Speech therapy may help patients regain the ability to speak. Occupational therapy may help patients regain independent function and relearn basic skills (e.g., getting dressed, preparing a meal, and bathing).

PIKEVILLE - Recovery from a stroke doesn't end with the rehabilitation program, Harvard University reports.

A stroke victim may have lingering disabilities that last for months after a stroke occurs. The transition from rehabilitation to living independently can be physically and emotionally trying. The support of relatives and friends can make a tremendous difference in the person's well-being.

Some people who've had a stroke return home after spending just a few days in a hospital, but other people don't leave the hospital for several weeks and some people need long-term nursing care after a stroke. Even after the physical rehabilitation has taken place, a stroke victim may still need help dealing with emotions.

Since the brain is a person's cradle for emotions and psyche, a brain attack like a stroke can have psychological effects.

Stroke victims may experience overpowering or misplaced feelings during recovery.

Psychosocial counseling for the stroke patient and the family can help with the aftershocks of a stroke.

About 25 percent of stroke victims develop major depression, a problem that can undermine rehabilitative efforts and worsen cognitive disabilities, like speech and language difficulties, if left untreated. Psychotherapy and/or antidepressants may be helpful.

Depression and sexual difficulties go hand in hand. Even though there is no medical reason to avoid having sex after a stroke, stroke victims may experience sexual dysfunction because neurological damage can interfere with a person's sensation.

A stroke victim may lose the desire for sex because he or she feels self-conscious or troubled by body appearance or tiredness.

Note for caregivers

If a relative, spouse or close friend has had a stroke or other major health problem, the caregiver is affected, too. But if the caregiver over-extends himself or herself, he or she will grow tired and fail to provide the appropriate care needed.

Caregivers should remember to:

� Take care of yourself by eating well, getting enough rest and taking time to do things you enjoy. Don't be afraid to ask for help.

� Make life easier by learning about and using assistive devices that will help the person be as independent as possible.

� Take advantage of support groups and other resources for caregivers.

� Learn as much as you can about the stroke (or other illness) and rehabilitation.

� Support the person's decisions about rehabilitation. Help him or her practice skills that he or she learned in rehabilitation.

� Ask for help from a doctor or a speech therapist if the person has difficulty speaking.

� Consider adult day-care. A local adult day-care program can be a good option if a loved one is living at home, but has some degree of mental impairment. The program can provide a few hours of respite to a person who is taking care of someone else at home.

Miners set to cash in: Alpha Natural Resources announces $13 million retention package

Fri, 09 May 2008 13:50:13 GMT

The Medical Leader / COURTESY OF ALPHA NATURAL RESOURCES

MEETING WITH MINERS: Alpha Natural Resources President Kevin Crutchfield speaks to miners following the unveiling of a $13 million appreciation package for Alpha miners on May 1.

VARNEY, W.Va. - More than 3,600 Alpha Natural Resources, Inc., employees, including those employed at the company's White Flame Energy operation in Mingo County, were rewarded for their hard work and dedication to the mining industry.

Vice President Vaughn Groves made the journey from the company's home office based in Abingdon, Va., to announce an unprecedented, multi-year package of rewards and incentives on May 1.

"We truly appreciate all that you do for our company and the mining industry of this nation," Groves told the more than 100 miners assembled at a press conference at White Flame Energy.

Alpha's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael Quillen was on hand in Cumberland, W.Va., to meet with miners there.

"We see this as a significant day, maybe the most significant in our company's history," he said. Employees were given ownership in the company - a grant of 25 shares of company stock.

The generosity didn't stop there.

Company officials also promised that the miners will no longer have to contribute to health, dental and vision insurance premiums. The company is even giving employees vacation money to use in their time off with families.

Additional incentives included semi-annual bonuses for operating personnel (based on continued service to the company) and rewards for mine rescuers and trainers that include payments for participating on the "all-volunteer" teams.

The benefits package is expected to cost more than $13 million in the first year and it averages out to be worth more than three dollars per hour to the average employee.

"Alpha wants each employee to know that we value their contribution to the mining industry," Quillen said.

Another factor in the company's "generous" decision was rising gasoline prices.

"We have a lot of workers who have to drive long distances to reach our mines," Quillen said.

"We appreciate what they do for the company and we intend to help them out with fuel assistance."

Pike Co. Relay for Life � May 16 � Bob Amos Park

Fri, 09 May 2008 13:31:45 GMT

READY FOR RELAY: Members of Pike County 4-H walk around the track at Bob Amos Park during last year's Pike County Relay for Life celebration. Several local businesses, including Pikeville Medical Center, will participate in this year's relay.

PIKEVILLE - For months, area organizations have planned events and hosted fundraisers for Pike County's annual Relay for Life.

The overnight ceremony, scheduled for May 16-17 at Bob Amos Park, is a celebration for those who have beaten cancer, and a time to remember those who have lost their fight.

On the heels of this year's Relay for Life, Chair Cindy May Johnson said the event is tugging along but "we are seeing the affects of the slowdown in the economy."

Johnson, the vice president of East Kentucky Broadcasting, is encouraging the public, especially those not affiliated with a team, to attend the Relay for Life.

"It's a fun time for the entire family," Johnson added. "We especially want the public to be there from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on May 16. During this time, we will have our opening ceremonies, the survivors' walk and a wide variety of activities both on the stage and around the track."

Pikeville Medical Center, which employs more than 1,600 health care professionals, will have a team once again this year. The hospital, which ranked as the No. 4 "Best Places to Work in Kentucky" last month by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, will also sponsor a survivor's dinner on Tuesday at the Mark V in Pikeville.

"We've already had 150 people register for the dinner," said Jessica Howard, a public relations specialist at PMC.

When participants walk throughout the night, it signifies the fact that cancer never sleeps. Survivors lead the annual walk around the track at Bob Amos each year and luminaries are lit in a special ceremony to recognize the lives of people who lost their lives to cancer.

"Luminaries can be purchased the night of the event as well," Johnson said.

The Relay for Life is the largest community-based fundraiser in the world. The event provides funds for cancer programs and research conducted by the American Cancer Society.

The American's Cancer Society's mid-south division, which includes Relay for Life teams in Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas and Louisiana, raised $41.6 million for cancer research and programs in 2007.

As of April, 40 teams - comprised of 6,547 participants - had signed up to participate in Pike County's Relay for Life.

NATIONAL STROKE AWARENESS MONTH

Fri, 09 May 2008 12:42:17 GMT

Time is essential during a stroke

Minutes and seconds wasted could lead to severe brain damage

PIKEVILLE - Whitesburg resident Gary Adams, 59, was sitting on his couch watching television when his life changed. Without any warning, he had a stroke that nearly cost him his life.

Adams spent about a month at Pikeville Medical Center, where he had to learn to walk, talk, eat and take care of himself again - something that took many hours and a lot of dedication from him and hospital employees.

When Adams returned home this year, he became one of the few -a stroke victim who recovered.

When a stroke occurs, the amount of time it takes a victim to get treatment effects the extent of brain damage that occurs.

May is National Stroke Awareness Month, and the National Stroke Association recommends that people act "F.A.S.T." to treat a stroke:

F = Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

A = Arm: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S = Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Does the speech sound slurred or strange?

T = Telephone: If you observe any of these signs of stroke, call 911 immediately.

In December 2007, the American Heart Association's Statistics Committee and Stroke Statistics Subcommittee reported that cardiovascular disease death rates are the major cause of death in this country.

Coronary heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, heart failure and all other heart and blood vessel-related problems have been the major cause of death in the United States every year since 1900 - except during the 1918 flu pandemic.

Several risk factors contribute to heart disease, including high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol levels, and type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle habits - including high-fat, high-salt diets and low levels of physical activity - contribute to obesity, which is related to heart disease.

People with cardiovascular risk factors like hypertension and diabetes are also diagnosed more with kidney disease.

In total, cardiovascular disease accounted for 869,724 deaths in 2004 compared to 911,163 deaths in 2003. Stroke was the No. 3 U.S. killer, responsible for 150,074 deaths. Coronary heart disease accounted for 451,326 deaths - making it the single No. 1 killer in the nation.

May was declared National Stroke Awareness Month in 1989 in an effort to help Americans understand they can save a stroke victim's life by knowing about risk factors, prevention methods and symptom recognition of strokes.

Mingo students excel at Marshall event

Fri, 02 May 2008 16:35:15 GMT

GOOD NEWS KIDS: Members of the Mingo County Career and Technical Center graphic arts and business technology classes pose for a picture outside of Marshall University last month

DELBARTON, W.Va. - For the third year in a row, Mingo County Career and Technical Center students won the Division 5 award in a competition held at Marshall University in March.

More than 25 schools from West Virginia, Kentucky and Ohio participated in the event.

Senior Riley Adkins, who was honored earlier this year for creating the official poster for the Matewan Massacare reenactment, won a full-paid tuition scholarship to Marshall University for presenting the best overall portfolio. The scholarship will rollover as log as he maintains a 3.0 grade-point average each year.

"This is an incredible accomplishment for Riley and this speaks volumes of the caliber of students we have in our program," said Doug Martin, an instructor at the Mingo County Career and Technical Center.

Students from the graphic design, health occupation and business education took part in the event.

Jonah Coleman won a one-year tuition scholarship for finishing in the top five in overall points. He plans to major in graphic design.

"To watch these students attain these incredible goals in rewarding as a teacher," Martin added. "This is something they (the students) will never forget, and it is gratifying to know that I played a small part in this."

Other winners were:

Advertising Children's Literature - first place, Kenny Blackburn; second place, Gage Justice.

Designing an Advertisement - first place, Kenny Blackburn; second place, Riley Adkins; third place Jonah Coleman.

Promotional Poster Design - first place, Todd Jeffrey; second place, Jonah Coleman; third place, Stephen Ooten.

Photo Illustration - first place, Gage Justice.

Art Portfolio - first place, Riley Adkins.

Emergency Medical (CPR) - first place (tie), Amber Gillman and Karen Elaine Dotson.

Infection Control for Health Professionals - third place, Kayla Hammond Simpkins.

Newspaper Design - first place, Nick May; second place, Jonah Coleman; third place, Tiffany Mayhorn.

Designing Costumes - first place Mariea Vance; second place Charlotte Johnson; third place Carla Bowman.

Designing of Scenery - first place, Stephen Ooten; second place, Kenny Warrix.

Fashion Design (Victorian Period) - first place, Mariea Vance.

Civil War enthusists wanted

Fri, 02 May 2008 16:27:45 GMT

PIKEVILLE - Area officials are calling recruits for the area's first Civil War roundtable.

The group will research and discuss the Civil War in the Big Sandy Valley and surrounding areas, said organizer Randall Osborne, Pike County's Heritage Commission chairman. Dues collected by the organization will help pay for presentations by well-known guest speakers.

People interested in the Civil War or people who want to develop an interest in the Civil War should take part in an organizational meeting of the group at the Landmark Inn restaurant in Pikeville on Saturday, May 3, at 11:30 a.m.

Osborne said monthly meetings for the Civil War roundtable will be held in different locations.

Breaking the mold � with comedy: Mingo filmmaker making strides with spoof "Crash Gordon"

Fri, 02 May 2008 16:25:34 GMT

AT SUNDANCE: Mingo County native Bill Richardson is shown at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year.

WILLIAMSON, W.Va. - "This isn't sophisticated humor. This is the sort of movie where you check your brain at the door and hope you don't pee your pants," said Tug Valley resident Bill Richardson, about his new film.

Richardson got into the film-making business when the historical film, "Matewan," was produced several years ago. He said was "in between jobs" at the time.

"I worked about half of the film," he said. "And I sat down and thought, 'You know, I can do this.'"

"Crash Gordon," a feature length comedy that Richardson said "cost less than what Steven Spielberg spends on food" to produce, is a spoof of "Flash Gordon Conquers the Universe," a serial that has not been copyrighted. Richardson combined parts of the Flash Gordon serial with other classic science fiction movies, new characters and a new theme to create his "over-the-top" feature.

The film features space pioneer Crash Gordon, who tries to keep evil Emperor Bing from destroying the Earth with a plague of killer flatulence. (Yes, flatulence.)

The film's heroes embark on a rambunctious, roller coaster ride across planet Mondo. To succeed in saving the Earth, the heroes must overcome silly robots, strange aliens, Bing's minions and their own ineptitude.

"There's nothing socially redeeming about the film," Richardson said. "It's just fun. It's a chance to escape your troubles."

He said he stumbled upon some old public domain films, or films that haven't been copyrighted, before he started working on the comedy. He spent about 3,000 hours trying to produce a film that he could enjoy.

"You go to the video store and you can't find a film you like," he said. "That's especially true of comedy. You sit down and you have 200 channels on T.V. and you can't find anything worth watching. I was frustrated with that and I decided to make something a little different, something fun and entertaining. I think people will enjoy it."

Richardson said it was "nerve-wracking" to watch people watch his film at the Appalachian Film Festival in Huntington, W.Va., on April 19. It was also "kind of exciting," he said, because he got to see the crowd respond to his film.

"Crash Gordon" earned a second-place ranking in the Appalachian Film Festival's feature film category. It earned a Gold Award at the in the comedy category of the Worldfest International Film Festival, which was held in Houston on April 19.

The Worldfest International Film Festival, the oldest independent film and video festival in the world, discovered filmmaker Steven Spielberg and director George Lucas.

"This has been a great honor for this film," Richardson said. "The film is different than what's out there and it doesn't fit neatly in a lot of the boxes. There were not a lot of stars used in the film and it was made in a very unique way than most films. For judges to look past all that, to see that it's worthy, that's a great honor."

Richardson is now in the process of finding national distributor for the film. This year, he will continue traveling across the country and submitting the film at other film festivals.

BLACK RIDGE GALLERY: A WORK of ART

Fri, 02 May 2008 15:48:11 GMT

The Medical Leader / MARY MUSIC

UNVEILING: Sandra Marcum unveiled "Shades of Summer," the largest canvass painting she's ever completed, during a reception at her Black Ridge Gallery on April 24.

PRESTONSBURG - Artist Sandra Lee Kansas Marcum, who recently opened the Black Ridge Gallery on West Court Street in Prestonsburg, hosted "Art Night Out: Celebration of Downtown" on April 24. The show featured several pieces of her work - oil and acrylic paintings - and stone sculptures by West Virginia resident Earl Gray.

During the reception, Marcum unveiled the largest painting she's ever completed on canvas, "Shades of Summer," a 6-foot by 8-foot landscape painting of an eastern Kentucky hillside near a creek.

When the painting was unveiled, the audience looked at it silently for a moment, before breaking into applause. People in the crowd called the painting "familiar" and "realistic." "It makes me feel like I can walk right into it," one woman said.

Marcum, who began to paint professionally about 10 years ago, is familiar with painting murals.

She says large homes, like her home with cathedral ceilings, should be decorated with large paintings or murals.

"Why do you breathe?" she said, when asked why she enjoyed painting. "I paint because it's just a natural function for me."

Marcum said one of the most profound lessons she's learned came when she was a child, when she realized that the students in her classroom couldn't draw as well as she could. At the time, she believed drawing was second nature to everyone, like it is to her.

She says her paintings often reflect her moods and her best paintings are those that she paints in just one sitting. Although she sells more floral and landscape paintings, figurative paintings are her favorite.

Some of the paintings on display included: "Stuff that Dreams are Made Of" and "Black Ridge Mountains," oil and acrylic paintings of a coal tipples that actually include bits of pieces of coal in the paintings; "Horse Friends," a close-up painting of two horses; and "This, too, Shall Pass," a scene of an ocean surrounded by dark, stormy skies. Opening the gallery was a childhood dream for Marcum.

"I didn't' want to look back one day and regret never taking the chance to find out if I could do it," she said. "I'm doing exactly what I love doing. How many people get the chance to do that?"

People buy art because they want an escape from reality or because they want an original piece of art, something that is completely unique and will increase in value, Marcum said.

"When I finish a work, I'll stand back and look at the piece. It's the only one like it in the universe. I get a kick out of that," Marcum said.

Marcum does custom work with customers - paintings or furniture painted and decorated to match design plans - and she also consults with designers in planning home decor.

The Black Ridge Gallery, located in the old Hawkins Law Office, is open between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, between noon and 5 p.m. on Saturday, and on Monday and Tuesday by appointment only. Marcum will host "Art Night Out" showings throughout the summer.

For more information, contact the gallery at (606) 886-8004.

Fallen troopers honored: State Police dedicates monument at Post 9

Fri, 02 May 2008 15:42:32 GMT

The Medical Leader / TEDDY PAYNTER

MONUMENT: The Kentucky State Police dedicated a monument to nine Post 9 troopers who have died in the line of duty.

COAL RUN - All Jonathan Leonard ever wanted to do in life was be a state trooper.

His childhood dream became a reality in 2003 when he was one of 63 cadets to take on the challenge of earning the right to wear the gray uniform.

Leonard's career came to a tragic end almost as quickly as it had begun. The Sidney native was killed in a two-vehicle accident shortly after 6 p.m. on Dec. 19, 2006, while responding to a call. He was the 24th trooper to lose his life in the line of duty.

"As bad as it is� that's what he wanted to do," Leonard's mother, Karen, said following a monument dedication ceremony held on April 25 at Kentucky State Police's Post 9 headquarters. "Troopers are family and he was one of their own."

Leonard's name is one of nine Post 9 troopers engraved on the monument. Twenty-five Kentucky troopers have lost their lives while serving and protecting since 1948, including six assigned to the Pikeville Post.

Trooper Stewart Joey Howard was the last office to die while still active. He passed away Christmas Day of 2006, just six days after Leonard's death.

"The Kentucky State Police is a family affair," Post 9 Capt. Jeff Caudill told those gathered. "We are here today to honor those and their sacrifices."

Kentucky State Police Commissioner Rodney Brewer said he was honored to be able to spend time with state troopers and family members at such a historic event.

"These troopers being honored today were just upholding justice for which the troopers gave their lives," he said.

He told family members he knew the sacrifice was a "tremendous loss for better good."

Lt. Gov. Daniel Mongiardo said the greatest gift that anyone can give is their life.

"I'm sure they are looking down on us today," he said. "When people see the gray suits that are worn by state police, they have this feeling of security."

Pikeville Post 9 Lt. Henry Banks closed the ceremony by reading off the names of all nine fallen troopers during "roll call" as officers from throughout the region presented family members in attendance with white roses.

In addition to Leonard and Stewart, other troopers engraved on the monument include: Elmer Mobley, Jr., Cecil W. Uzzle, Bobby McCoun, Jerome S. Clifton, Johnny Adkins, Larry D. Preston and Larry Prater.

"This was our way of honoring the troopers," TFC Scott Hopkins said. "Every day troopers sacrifice and give for whatever reason. All of these troopers gave of themselves. They were our brothers."

TRIUMPH from TRAGEDY: 1958 bus accident paved way for start of Floyd Co. Rescue Squad

Fri, 02 May 2008 15:35:32 GMT

The Medical Leader / TEDDY PAYNTER

CELEBRATION: Floyd County Rescue Squad captain Tim Cooley speaks during a celebration of the organization's 50th anniversary on April 27 in Prestonsburg. The squad - the first one of its kind in America - formed during the aftermath of a Feb. 28, 1958 bus accident which killed 27 people. (Bottom ) A large crowd gathered to honor members - past and present - of the Floyd County Rescue Squad.

PRESTONSBURG - It was a day of celebration - and reflection - for members of the Floyd County Rescue Squad.

Good food, musical entertainment and fellowship were the themes for a day-long celebration on April 27, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the rescue squad.

However, part of the ceremony - fittingly - was a tribute to the reason the unit, the first of its kind in America, was formed.

Everything went hand-in-hand.

"We are here today to honor those who started this great organization back in 1958," Chief Tim Cooley said. "It's just a wonderful feeling we can do that and member those responsible." Original member Petty Thompson, now 80, said the 27 lives lost in the nation's worst school bus disaster near this small eastern Kentucky community was the spark that ignited the fire 50 years ago.

"It wasn't hard to get people interested in joining after the tragedy," he said. "Several of us got together at the old armory building here in town and decided to form the squad."

Thompson, who served as Floyd County's civil defense director for 18 years, said the current squad has "plenty more resources available."

"They are blessed to have what they have today," said Thompson, who served on the rescue squad for 30 years. "Anyone who has served here understands what it means to be a part of this great group of men and women."

Bud Alexander has remained an active member for 50 years.

"This is all I've ever wanted to do in my life�help others," Alexander said. "I've worked my regular job, but I've been here doing what I love to do and that's make sure that others are cared for."

Floyd County Judge- Executive R.D. "Doc" Marshall said the anniversary was "special to me."

"The school bus tragedy will live forever in our hearts and minds," he said. "This group was born from that tragedy. Many of those responsible for its beginning are no longer around, but they live forever with us."

Cooley said the group has been able to operate solely on public and private donations.

"This rescue squad was started with nothing," he said. "We had individuals involved with this group that took out personal loans just to keep it going." Senator Johnny Ray Turner hopes state government can soon lend a helping hand.

"I want to commend all of you for your hard work and dedication to this squad," Turner said. "I'm very hopeful that funding can be allocated in the budget for the rescue squad and I'm going to work hard to see that it's done."

Prestonsburg Mayor Jerry Fannin said he was extremely proud the squad was located in the city. "This is a great day for this small community, "he said. "We have one of the best rescue squads in America."

He said many of the workers give up their time to protect the community they call home.

"To the charter members here today, and current members, I realize what you give up to serve this community," he said. "I commend each and every one of you today."

The 13 individuals who started the squad included late captain Graham Burchett and James "Beady" Goble, who lost three children in the tragedy.

"This celebration is a testament to those individuals," Marshall said. "The nation's first-ever rescue squad was formed right here in our hometown. Our county is truly blessed."

Letcher team receives hazardous training

Fri, 02 May 2008 15:16:45 GMT

WHITESBURG - Letcher County's emergency management team just completed a 40-hour training course to receive hazardous materials technician certification.

When a hazardous materials incident occurs, 20 members of the team are trained to rescue victims and contain the hazardous materials until a certified cleanup crew arrives on scene.

The 20 team members from the Gordon Fire Department, the Whitesburg Fire Department, Colson Fire Department, Sand Lick Fire Department, the Whitesburg Police Department, the Letcher County Sheriff Department and a local funeral home took two 20-hour training sessions at the Whitesburg Fire Department over a period of two weekends. The training was provided by the Office of Applied Innovation.

Letcher County Emergency Manager Paul Miles said the team members learned requirements in dealing with hazardous materials, how to correctly wear fully-encapsulated Level A suits, and passed physical exams before they were certified.

The air-tight suits protect the hazardous materials team from dangerous liquids or gases that are spilled during a vehicle accident or other hazardous materials event. The suits cost up to $2,500 apiece.

"People see the big tankers going down the road and people don't give it a second thought," Miles said, "but if one of those tankers wrecked, the things carried in them could cause an evacuation for up to two or three miles. A lot of chemicals are deadly by just inhaling them."

Letcher County received a homeland security grant that funded the purchase of a hazardous materials truck and trailer a couple of years ago. The training came as part of a re-certification process.

Delorean Grey to open second night at July Jam at Expo

Fri, 02 May 2008 15:15:12 GMT

PIKEVILLE - The annual "Open at the Jam" band competition was held on April 26 at Grace Fellowship Church in Pikeville.

The winning band, "Delorean Grey," from London, won the opportunity to open at JULY JAM on Saturday, July 19, at the Eastern Kentucky Exposition Center in Pikeville.

July Jam, an annual twoday Christian Rock event, aims to send eastern Kentucky youth the positive message of the gospel of Jesus Christ through the influence of Christian music.

July Jam events are organized to help young people understand that there is an alternative to drug use.

The event begins on Friday, July 18, at the Pikeville City Park with free music and refreshments. Other bands performing are StorySide:B, Santus Real and Pillar.

Tickets go on sale Saturday, May 3, and can be purchased at Ticketmaster on the Internet www.ticketmaster.com or by phone at (606) 433-1793.

Fallen Belfry fire chief honored

Fri, 02 May 2008 15:11:20 GMT

The Medical Leader / John Doe

SPECIAL DEDICATION: Members of the Belfry Volunteer Fire Department unveiled this new truck dubbed 'The Pirate' during a special ceremony to honor late fire chief Rexel Jackson.

BELFRY - The late Rexel Jackson served as chief of the Belfry Volunteer Fire Department (BVFD) until his untimely death last year.

The man who protected his community with honor and respect was memorialized April 19 by the men who worked alongside him saving homes and lives.

A new fire truck was unveiled in his honor during a special ceremony held at the department. "We still miss the chief," said Lt. Dorsey Rowe, chairman of the BVFD Board of Directors. "I think about him every day."

Dubbed "The Pirate," the new truck was obtained from assistance to firefighters grant administered through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The balance of the cost of the truck was paid with a donation from Sidney Coal and by fundraisers organized by the department.

"If it weren't for the help of the community," Rowe said, "none of this would have been possible."

He went on to explain how the truck was outfitted to serve the needs of the Belfry unit.

"The base price of the truck was $289,000, but we had to put a lot of our own equipment on it," he said.

The truck is ready to respond to emergencies, having been equipped by the department with new selfcontained breathing apparatus tanks, nozzles, hoses and 30-gallon foam tanks.

"People don't realize what it costs to get a truck like this ready to handle an emergency," BVFD Secretary Randall Harmon said.

He explained that he was especially glad to have the foam tanks.

"At least 80 percent of our calls are for car accidents, and the foam tanks are important. They are very effective in putting out car fires, things of that nature," Harmon said.

Pike Co. ATV trail system nears reality

Fri, 02 May 2008 14:37:19 GMT

BELFRY - "It is amazing what can be accomplished if you do not care who takes the credit."

State Representative W. Keith Hall used that Harry Truman quote when describing the progress made on the development of a multi-use trail system in eastern Kentucky.

He and other local leaders joined Lt. Governor Daniel Mongiardo at Belfry on April 22 to discuss the trail system with area residents at the Belfry Volunteer Fire Department.

The Kentucky legislature recently passed a bill that allows the state to enter into agreements with private landowners for the purpose of opening land for public use for horseback riding, hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, and motorized sports, like all-terrain vehicles (ATV) and dirt bikes.

The law alleviates liability concerns for landowners in the event of an accident on their property.

"We want to get your comments and your input about what we need to do. � Where you would like to see this go?" Pike County Magistrate Chris Harris asked the crowd.

He explained that the meeting was part of the process to obtain funding for the trail system. The Pike County Fiscal Court is applying for a grant to finance the development of an ATV trail system in the northeastern part of the county.

The trail, which will be called the "Skyward Trail System," will connect with the Hatfield and McCoy Trail System in neighboring Mingo County, W.Va.

Eventually, the trail system will connect Pike, Martin, Johnson, Morgan, Wolfe, Breathitt, Perry, Knott, Letcher, Harlan, Bell and Floyd counties.

Pike County officials are working to obtain permission from private and commercial property owners for about 100 miles of the trails in order to connect with other existing trails near Mingo County.

The fiscal court has $190,000 to contribute to the project, Pike County Judge-Executive Wayne T. Rutherford said.

He added that the fiscal court hopes to give the project an additional $700,000 once it connects with the trail system in Letcher County.

Rutherford said he would expand the initiative by meeting with officials with the Department of Tourism, Breaks Interstate Park and Pikeville College to discuss adventure tourism initiatives.

"Pikeville College has expressed an interest in offering an Adventure Tourism degree program," he explained.

Mongiardo, who is from Harlan County, said citizens take the area's greatest resources for granted.

"We have searched so far and wide to bring jobs to the mountains of eastern Kentucky," he said, "and we have missed what is right under our noses: the hospitality of our people and the beauty of our mountains."

Hall told those gathered that an additional $100,000 would be available if Fishtrap Lake was added to the trail system.

Harris was initially skeptical about creating a trail system in Pike County, but said the success of the Hatfield-McCoy system changed his mind.

The Hatfield-McCoy Trail system covers 300 miles of trails in nine counties in southern West Virginia. An economic impact study shows that the system brings in $51 million in revenue and more than 1,500 jobs.

More information on Skyward Trails can be found at www.skywardtrails.org.