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Gov. Matt Bevin and Justice Secretary John Tilley announced today that Damon Preston has been appointed as Kentucky’s next Public Advocate, continuing his decades of steadfast work at the Department of Public Advocacy (DPA) on behalf of indigent clients.
Preston is taking the helm after 20 years of service at key levels of the department. Since joining the DPA in 1997, he has worked as a staff attorney, director of trial offices, and manager of the department’s appeals branch. In 2007, Preston joined the department’s leadership team as director of the Trial Division. He was later appointed deputy public advocate in 2011.
“As a career public defender, I am thrilled to be entrusted with the position of Kentucky’s Public Advocate,” Preston said. “I have been blessed to work under the strong leadership of past advocates Ed Monahan and Ernie Lewis and intend to continue their tradition of faithfully upholding the Sixth Amendment right to counsel in the Commonwealth. My goal is to improve our statewide system, which already provides excellent representation to indigent clients in the criminal courts of Kentucky.”
The Department of Public Advocacy provides legal representation to low-income clients accused of crimes, fulfilling their constitutional rights to an attorney and to a fair trial. Each year, DPA attorneys, investigators, mitigation specialists, alternative sentencing workers and administrative specialists handle more than 140,000 trial and post-trial cases statewide. These include involuntary commitments, juvenile cases, misdemeanors and felonies.
Today’s appointment fills the position of outgoing Public Advocate Ed Monahan, who dedicated more than 40 years of service to the department. Gov. Bevin selected Preston from three candidates nominated by the Public Advocacy Commission. The appointment takes effect September 16, 2017.
“Damon is a proven leader who commands with a steady hand, and he has played an instrumental role in every aspect of DPA over the past two decades,” Secretary Tilley said. “We value his data-driven approach and eye toward accountability and look forward to his continued service at the department. We also thank Ed Monahan for his unyielding service and sacrifice on behalf of DPA and its clients. He has provided a great deal of resolute leadership during tough budgetary times, and his work has impacted many lives for the better.”
A native of Harrodsburg, Ky., Preston earned a mathematics degree from Transylvania University and later graduated cum laude from Harvard Law School in 1994. He began his legal career as a public defender at the Legal Aid Society in New York City.
As deputy public advocate, Preston has focused on DPA’s legislative efforts and led the department’s implementation of a comprehensive information and case management system. Last year, Gov. Bevin also appointed Preston to serve on the Criminal Justice Policy Assessment Council.
In addition to work at DPA, Preston serves on the board of the Kentucky Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and is a past chair of the Criminal Law Section of the Kentucky Bar Association. He is married with two daughters and lives in Georgetown.
Download copy of Executive Order.
Photo: Kentucky Department Fish and Wildlife
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park will open the elk-viewing season with its Elk Night buffet Sept. 16 from 4-9 p.m.
The menu will include elk roast carved on the line, hunter’s elk chili, elk meatloaf, fried chicken, catfish with hush puppies, lyonnaise potatoes, shoe peg corn and other vegetables and desserts.
The buffet is held on the first day of elk viewing tours at Jenny Wiley that run through the fall and winter. Adults are $18.95 and children ages 6-12 are $8.95. Ages 5 and under are free. Drink not included.
Elk were re-introduced to Kentucky in 1997 as a restoration project by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. The department estimates there are more than 10,000 elk in Kentucky. Some of the best areas for elk habitat are on reclaimed surface mines in Eastern Kentucky.
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park is sponsoring elk tours at a cost of $30 per person or $15 per child, 12 and under. This fee includes transportation by van to the viewing sites and a continental breakfast. The elk-viewing tours will run through Dec. 2. The tours will resume in January.
The park also offers overnight tour packages that include lodging, dinner, and an elk tour with continental breakfast for $160 per couple. Guests should register for the trips. Special group and business tours are available.
Call 606-889-1790 for information and reservations. For a list of dates, visit: http://parks.ky.gov/calendar/details/appalachian-elk-viewing-tour/21209/
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park is located on 1,100-acre Dewey Lake. The park has a lodge and conference center as well as fishing, boating, marina, swimming, and other recreational opportunities. The park also has cottages, a campground and dining.
Attorney General Andy Beshear issued a Scam Alert today to help make Kentuckians aware of the Equifax data breach, and provided tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of identity theft.
Equifax, one of the nation’s three major credit-reporting agencies, recently announced a major data breach that could affect about 143 million American customers.
Equifax has indicated that from mid-May through July of this year hackers gained access to customers’ names, Social Security numbers, birthdates, addresses and some driver’s license numbers. Credit card numbers of about 209,000 consumers, and personal information in credit file dispute documents for about 182,000 consumers were also accessed.
Beshear said the Attorney General’s Office of Consumer Protection is investigating the events surrounding the data breach, including the company’s response and the protections being offered to affected Kentuckians.
“Kentuckians who may be involved should take immediate steps to closely monitor their credit, and report any suspicious credit activity to my office,” said Beshear.
The Office of the Attorney General is asking Kentuckians who might be impacted by the breach to follow these steps to help protect against identity theft:
- Check to see if your information was compromised. Verify if your personal information was impacted by visiting the Equifax website, equifaxsecurity2017.com.
- Sign up for the free credit monitoring service. Equifax is offering a free year of TrustedID Premier credit file monitoring and ID theft protection for all U.S. consumers, whether or not their information was impacted. To sign up for the protection service, visit equifaxsecurity2017.com or call 866-447-7559, which is open every day, including weekends, from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. Eastern time.
- Follow the Identity Theft Toolkit. The Office of the Attorney General’s online Identity Theft Toolkit provides systematic instructions on how to respond to possible identity theft. The toolkit includes information on how to place a credit report fraud alert, order credit reports and other helpful resources and contact information.
- Report suspicious activity. Contact the Attorney General’s data breach hotline, toll free at 855-813-6508 if you are a victim of a data breach or identity theft.
As part of Beshear’s effort to protect Kentucky families from scams, fraud and identity theft he launched Scam Alerts – the state’s first direct text and email scam notification system.
Kentuckians have recently received Scam Alerts on Hurricane Harvey scams, IRS scams Targeting Western Kentuckians and a scam targeting Kentuckians’ generosity to veterans.
To stay up to date on new and trending scams Kentuckians should sign up to receive Scam Alerts from the Office of the Attorney General. To enroll text the words KYOAG Scam to GOV311 (468311), or enroll online at ag.ky.gov/scams and select text message or email alert.
The Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services announced that it will provide the public the opportunity to review and provide input on operational modifications to the 1115 Kentucky HEALTH demonstration waiver application that is currently pending approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).
Last year, Governor Matt Bevin, Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Vickie Yates Brown Glisson, and other state health officials introduced a comprehensive plan to help put Kentuckians on a path to better health outcomes and ensure long-term sustainability of the Medicaid program, known as Kentucky HEALTH (Helping to Engage and Achieve Long Term Health). Kentucky HEALTH is an innovative approach that offers opportunities for individuals to take an active role in their health, engage in their communities, and gain skills for long-term independence and success. The demonstration waiver includes innovative delivery system reforms to expand the treatment of substance abuse, and a unique community engagement and employment initiative for Kentucky HEALTH members designed to strengthen Kentucky’s workforce and improve health and well-being.
“Since its inception, Kentucky HEALTH has been crafted in an open and transparent manner to create the best path forward for all Kentuckians,” said Secretary Glisson. “Over the course of many months, our team of dedicated state employees has worked tirelessly to plan for the successful implementation of Kentucky HEALTH. Thanks to their expertise and commitment to breaking down silos across government agencies, collaborating with local communities, and cutting through bureaucratic red tape, the Commonwealth has identified operational modifications that would support member success, community engagement growth, and administrative efficiency of the program.”
Glisson continued, “Although these revisions fall within the original waiver’s parameters, we will continue this commitment to transparency by accepting public comment on these operational modifications. We look forward to discussing these proposed changes with stakeholders, and continuing this collaborative process.”
Gov. Bevin introduced the demonstration waiver known as Kentucky HEALTH on June 22, 2016, and offered an extended public comment period, during which three public hearings were held and more than 1,400
comments were collected. This feedback from consumers, providers, advocates, and other stakeholders was reviewed and taken into consideration prior to the final proposal being submitted to CMS.
These proposed program operational modifications are a logical outgrowth of the original waiver application, and are minor revisions resulting from the Commonwealth’s ongoing program development efforts and continued negotiations with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Although these slight modifications do not meet the standard for requiring public input as set forth at 42 CFR 431.408, the Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services will voluntarily hold open a 30-day public comment period and two public forums to gather public input on the proposed modifications.
The Commonwealth will be holding two public forums during the concurrent federal and state comment period:
FIRST PUBLIC HEARING:
- WHO: Representatives of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services and Governor’s Office
- WHAT: Public Forum
- WHEN: Friday, July 14, 2017, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (EST)
- WHERE: The Center for Rural Development 2292 South Highway 27 Suite 300 Somerset, KY 42501
- WHY: Opportunity to receive public input on the proposed operational revisions to the Commonwealth’s pending Kentucky’s Medicaid waiver. A complete draft of the Kentucky HEALTH waiver proposal and the proposed operational modifications are available for public review online at http://chfs.ky.gov/kentuckyhealth or for in-person inspection at the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Office of the Secretary, 275 E. Main St., Frankfort, KY 40621.
- Please Note: An interpreter for the deaf will be providing translation services at the hearing. Telephonic capabilities will be made available and posted on the Kentucky HEALTH website.
SECOND PUBLIC HEARING:
- WHO: Representatives of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services and Governor’s Office
- WHAT: Public Hearing
- WHEN: The Interim Joint Committee on Health and Welfare and Family Services meets at 10 a.m. EST, on Monday, July 17, 2017. During this meeting, there will be a short presentation explaining the modifications to the waiver. Public comments on the waiver will be taken upon adjournment of the committee meeting.
- WHERE: Kentucky Capitol Annex, room 129 702 Capital Avenue Frankfort, KY 40601
- WHY: Opportunity to receive public input on the proposed operational revisions to the Commonwealth’s pending Kentucky’s Medicaid waiver.
- Please Note: An interpreter for the deaf will be providing translation services at the hearing. Telephonic capabilities will be made available and posted on the Kentucky HEALTH website.
A complete draft of the Kentucky HEALTH waiver proposal and the proposed operational modifications are available for public review online at http://chfs.ky.gov/kentuckyhealth or for in-person inspection at the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Office of the Secretary, 275 E. Main St., Frankfort, KY 40621.
Photo: Bluegrass Supply Chain Services
Gov. Matt Bevin announced Bluegrass Supply Chain Services LLC, a third-party logistics provider for the automotive and food and beverage industries, will invest more than $3.35 million and create 51 jobs at two locations: a new operation in Edmonson County and upgrades at its Bullitt County facility.
“Bluegrass Supply Chain Services has been a customer-focused and high-growth employer in Kentucky for the past 15 years,” Gov. Bevin said. “Their decision to open a fourth location in the commonwealth and to reinvest in an existing facility is a compliment to Kentucky’s leadership in the distribution and logistics sectors. I congratulate BSCS and thank its leaders for their continued confidence in Kentucky.”
The company will invest more than $1.78 million to lease and upfit a building in Park City for office and warehouse space, and more than $1.57 million for similar upgrades in Shepherdsville. The projects will create 27 and 24 full-time positions, respectively.
“We are thrilled to continue our growth and expansion in the Shepherdsville area,” said John Higgins, president of BSCS. “This incentive program provides a mechanism for Bluegrass to compete with other companies outside of Kentucky.”
Headquartered in Bowling Green and founded in 2002, BSCS provides warehousing, quality support, light assembly and transportation management services to customers across four states. In addition to its Bowling Green and Shepherdsville locations, BSCS operates a 49-job facility in Russellville. The new jobs will bring its total Kentucky employment to about 590.
Sen. Dan “Malano” Seum, of Fairdale, bid the company well as it expands its presence in the region.
“It’s a great day for our city and our state when a local employer decides to expand its operations,” Sen. Seum said. “I thank Bluegrass Supply Chain Services for this new investment in Shepherdsville and wish the company all the best in its future endeavors.”
Rep. Dan Johnson, of Mt. Washington, said the state’s efforts to attract business are producing results.
“Bluegrass Supply’s significant expansion in Shepherdsville is fantastic news for Bullitt County, and will bring more jobs and increased opportunity to our area,” Rep. Johnson said. “The legislature’s work to make Kentucky more business friendly is already paying off for our workers, and I applaud the Governor for his continuing efforts to bring more investment to the commonwealth.”
Shepherdsville Mayor Curtis Hockenbury pointed out the significance of keeping business in Kentucky.
“I am always pleased to see a company that is in Shepherdsville expand, because it shows its faith in our community and our workers,” Mayor Hockenbury said. “It is an even greater thrill to have a Kentucky based company firmly believe in our city.”
Bullitt County Judge-Executive Melanie J. Roberts said the community welcomes the expansion with open arms.
“Bluegrass Supply Chain Services has shown a dedication to our community and we must admire the social conscience of its philosophies. The citizens of the county want to welcome this new investment and the job opportunities it provides,” Judge-Executive Roberts said. “We are glad to welcome more automotive-related jobs to the county, thus diversifying our employment base.”
Sen. David Givens, of Greensburg, believes the company will be a great fit for Park City.
“I am pleased to hear Bluegrass Supply Chain Services chose Park City for its newest location,” Sen. Givens said. “I know our region will serve this company well with a centralized location, strong workforce potential and a business-friendly economic climate, and I look forward to the company’s success in the region.”
Rep. Steve Riley, of Glasgow, expressed enthusiasm about the added job opportunities for the community.
“Since entering public office, attracting more jobs and higher levels of investment has been a top priority of mine, and I am glad to see that a company like Bluegrass Supply sees value in our area,” Rep Riley said. “This exciting announcement only adds to the positive economic news that we have been seeing across the state, and I look forward to seeing more in the future.”
Edmonson County Judge-Executive Wil Cannon welcomed the news.
“This is great news for Edmonson County,” Judge-Executive Cannon said. “This will be the third factory that will be operating in our county. We appreciate the opportunity for our citizens to have a job closer to home. On behalf of Edmonson County and our industrial authority, we thank everyone who assisted in making this happen.”
To encourage the investment and job growth in the community, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) in May preliminarily approved BSCS for tax incentives up to $300,000 for each project through the Kentucky Business Investment program. The performance-based incentive allows a company to keep a portion of its investment over the agreement term through corporate income tax credits and wage assessments by meeting job and investment targets.
In addition, BSCS can receive resources from the Kentucky Skills Network. Through the Kentucky Skills Network, companies can receive no-cost recruitment and job placement services, reduced-cost customized training and job training incentives. In fiscal 2016, the Kentucky Skills Network provided training for nearly 95,000 Kentuckians and 5,000 companies from a variety of industry sectors.
For more information on Bluegrass Supply Chain Services, visit www.bluegrass-scs.com.
A detailed community profile for Edmonson and Bullitt counties can be viewed at http://bit.ly/EdmonsonCo and http://bit.ly/BullittCo.
Information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts and programs is available at ThinkKentucky.com. Fans of the Cabinet for Economic Development can also join the discussion on Facebook or follow on Twitter. Watch the Cabinet’s “This is My Kentucky” video on YouTube.
In one of her first official site visits since taking the helm of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Dr. Anne Schuchat met with public health officials in Kentucky to discuss various programs and policies impacting the state’s public health system. Dr. Schuchat, CDC’s acting director, participated in day-long activities with staff from the Department for Public Health (DPH), within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), related to Kentucky’s opioid and drug overdose epidemic as well as sessions dealing with health data and analytics.
“I appreciate the chance to learn from the partnerships and programs that Kentucky has established to tackle the opioid epidemic and other public health challenges, said Dr. Schuchat, following her visit to Kentucky. “Hearing from people from public health, academia, coalitions, and public safety made a strong impression on me of the crucial role that partnerships play in protecting people’s health in Kentucky.”
“We were tremendously honored to host Dr. Schuchat in Kentucky today and greatly appreciate her time and invaluable insights into the American public health system,” said CHFS Secretary Vickie Yates Brown Glisson. “The opioid epidemic is the number one public health crisis facing Kentucky. It is extremely beneficial for us to be able to share information and collaborate with CDC leadership on these issues as we work toward building a healthier state.”
Dr. Schuchat began her public health career in 1988 when she came to CDC as an Epidemic Intelligence Service officer. She was principal deputy director of CDC during 2015-2017 and director of CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases from 2006-2015. She was promoted to Rear Admiral in the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service in 2006 and earned a second star in 2010. Dr. Schuchat was elected to the National Academy of Medicine (formerly the Institute of Medicine) in 2008.
Dr. Schuchat has played key roles in a number of CDC emergency responses. Most notably, she served as Chief Health Officer for CDC’s 2009 H1N1 pandemic influenza response; led the CDC team responding to the SARS outbreak in Beijing in 2003; and supported the Washington D.C. field team during the 2001 bioterrorist anthrax response.
“She has a unique overview of medicine and health in America and strong ideas about public health as an important profession,” said DPH Commissioner Dr. Hiram C. Polk, Jr.
The sessions were held in DPH. Sec. Glisson, Deputy Secretary Judge Timothy Feeley, DPH Commissioner Dr. Hiram Polk and public health experts from across the Commonwealth got a chance to speak with the acting director about Kentucky’s relationship with the CDC and her plans for the agency.
The next meeting of the Kentucky Native American Heritage Commission will take place at 1 p.m. (EDT) Thursday, July 6 at the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Conference Center, 200 Mero Street, Frankfort. The commission is administratively attached to the Kentucky Heritage Council/State Historic Preservation Office.
Commission members are Helen Danser, Tyner, Chair; Angela M. Arnett, Waynesburg; John P. Bowes, A. Gwynn Henderson, David Pollack and Anne Wood, Lexington; Dwight R. Cropper, South Portsmouth; Michael Dunn, Cynthia L. Isbell and Rep. Reginald Meeks, Louisville; David Lee Fallis, Frankfort; Deanna Jessie, Olive Hill; Susan Mullins, Berea; Christopher A. Robinson, Richmond; and William St. Pierre, Villa Hills.
The commission was established to recognize and promote Native American contributions and influence in Kentucky’s history and culture.
Meetings are open to the public and an agenda will be provided. For more information, contact Tressa Brown, Kentucky Native American Heritage Coordinator, at 502-564-7005, ext. 4467.