Floyd County, Ky – As families celebrate the Fourth of July this weekend, safety officials are reminding everyone to use fireworks responsibly. Experts recommend keeping spectators at least 50 to 75 feet away from the launch area, with 100 feet being even safer. Kentucky State Police are increasing patrols and warn that alcohol, drugs, and unsupervised children are leading causes of fireworks injuries. Vendors also stress one simple tip: always read and follow the instructions. A few extra precautions can help keep your Independence Day celebration safe.

Perry County, Ky – A major solar project is coming to Perry County. The $200 million Bright Mountain Solar Project is expected to create more than 200 construction jobs. To help fill those positions, Hazard Community and Technical College is offering free OSHA 10 certification classes in July and August. Project leaders say the training will prepare local workers for immediate employment and give Eastern Kentucky a chance to play a major role in the nation’s growing renewable energy industry.

Pike County, Ky – A Pikeville woman is facing a felony drug trafficking charge following an investigation by the Pikeville Police Department. Fifty-two-year-old Misty Tackett-Kelly was arrested after officers executed a search warrant at a Cypress Alley residence Tuesday morning. Police say they recovered a handgun, digital scales, drug paraphernalia, cash, suspected oxycodone, and pressed pills during the search. Investigators say the warrant followed a drug trafficking investigation that included controlled drug buys. Tackett-Kelly was lodged in the Pike County Detention Center on a first-degree drug trafficking charge.

Martin County, Ky – A Martin County man has been sentenced in a federal drug case. Thirty-year-old Cody Gene Spears of Lovely, was sentenced to 164 months in prison after pleading guilty to distributing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Prosecutors dismissed a conspiracy charge as part of a plea agreement. His attorney sought a reduced sentence, citing a troubled childhood and early exposure to drugs and alcohol. However, prosecutors pointed to Spears’ prior drug convictions, arguing he should be treated as a career offender. He was taken into custody following Monday’s sentencing.