PRESTONSBURG, KY – Several business and advocacy groups are joining the debate over Kentucky Power’s proposed 15 percent residential rate increase. Organizations like the Appalachian Citizens Law Center and Mountain Association have filed motions to intervene in the Public Service Commission case, arguing for energy affordability and sustainable transition away from coal, especially for Eastern Kentucky’s low-income communities. The case has drawn public attention, with more groups and individuals commenting online as Kentucky Power’s request is reviewed.
HAZARD, KY – A $500,000 federal grant is bringing a new culinary and hospitality training program to Perry County, thanks to a partnership between Hazard Community and Technical College and the Perry County Fiscal Court. The former Leatherwood Elementary will become a center with lodging, a kitchen, and classroom space, where students will earn certificates for jobs in restaurants, hotels, or their own businesses. The project supports recovery and workforce goals, aiming to open early next year through the Appalachian Regional Commission’s INSPIRE Initiative
FLOYD COUNTY, KY – A Floyd County man faces meth trafficking charges after a traffic stop on U.S. 23 in Pikeville September 29. Police arrested 51-year-old Christopher Yates, who admitted to having illegal substances in his bag. Officers found a glass pipe, several bags of suspected meth, and a working scale. Yates also allegedly told the driver to hide drugs before stopping. He was booked into the Pike County Detention Center on multiple charges, including first-degree trafficking.
INEZ, KY – Amanda Maynard, 42, of Louisa, was arrested for first-degree meth possession after a police chase Friday night in Martin County. Deputies spotted a gold Ford Taurus driving erratically on Route 40 and tried to stop the car near Martin County Middle School, but the driver sped away before fleeing on foot. Maynard, found in the passenger seat, had suspected meth in plain view beside her. She denied owning the drugs but was taken into custody on possession charges. Maynard was booked into the Big Sandy regional detention center.