McConnell meets with DOT nominee Anthony Foxx in his office in the U.S. Capitol.

Senate republican leader Mitch McConnell welcomed secretary of transportation nominee Anthony Foxx to his office in the U.S. Capitol this afternoon.

The meeting provided Senator McConnell the opportunity to highlight the importance of several Kentucky transportation projects, including the Brent Spence Bridge in Northern Kentucky, Ohio River Bridges in Louisville and the I-69 Bridge in Henderson.

The Kentucky Historical Society (KHS) is currently accepting nominations for the 2013 Kentucky History Awards. All nominations must be received by close of business Friday, Aug. 16.

The Kentucky History Awards recognize outstanding achievements by historians, public history professionals, volunteers, business and civic leaders, communities and historical organizations throughout the commonwealth. Individuals and communities across the state are encouraged each year to nominate projects and individuals for their efforts to promote the preservation, awareness and appreciation of state and local history.

“The Kentucky History Awards provide an opportunity for Kentucky’s individuals and community groups to share the great strides they are making in the study of state and local history,” said Stuart Sanders, KHS professional services administrator. “These projects significantly enhance our understanding of Kentucky history and deserve statewide recognition.”

Nominated projects must have been initiated or completed between January 1 and December 31, 2012 and must either pertain to some aspect of Kentucky’s state or local history, or must be sponsored by or benefiting a museum, historical society, genealogical society or other history-related organization in Kentucky. An applicant may self-nominate and may nominate more than one project, individual or group.

For complete rules of entry and to download a nomination packet, visit www.history.ky.gov/historyawards.

The Kentucky History Awards ceremony will be held Friday, Nov. 8, at the Old State Capitol in downtown Frankfort. It is free and open to the public, but reservations are required.

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The Kentucky Industrial Hemp Commission unanimously elected Harrison County farmer Brian Furnish as its new chairman at the close of its meeting on Thursday after Agriculture Commissioner James Comer stepped aside in compliance with Senate Bill 50, industrial hemp legislation that is set to take effect at the end of the month.

“I have every confidence that Brian Furnish will take the reins and run with the mission of this group,” Comer said. “Like me, Brian is interested in new opportunities for agriculture and in bringing more jobs to Kentucky, and he is not afraid to ruffle some feathers in order to accomplish these goals.”

An estimated three to five million older adults in America were victims of abuse in 2011. Elder Abuse often occurs at home, with a family member or caregiver causing the abuse.  In many instances, it can go undetected for some time.

June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month and I am encouraging Kentuckians to join me in raising awareness about this important issue.  Please watch for any warning signs that may suggest that elder abuse is occurring to someone you know and love.

By Glenn Mollette

"Abortion"

Celebrating family on these summer holidays or any day is always a special day.

However, all holidays are tough days for many. While millions celebrate others wonder about what might have been. Some have lost a child while others made tragic decisions to end a life.

Each spring, as Kentuckians welcome the long-awaited change of the season, spring also brings the unwelcome discomfort of seasonal eye allergies. Symptoms include swollen eye lids, dry eye, bloodshot eyes, or itchy, watery eyes.

The wedding planning season is in full swing - and bridal expos are headed to the Louisville area in the coming weeks! Your Better Business Bureau (BBB) has helpful tips for future brides and bridesmaids attending a show.

By Roger McKinney, Reporter

Mayor Mark Hart presented four municipal employees with plaques commemorating their dedication and hard work in the city of Falmouth. Terry England, Hank Jenkins and Larry Cox were honored for 25 years of service. Gary Lea was recognized for his service of 33 years.

The Falmouth Rotary Club invited and recognized veterans on Thursday, May 30 with a lunch held at the Veteran's Park in Falmouth.

Captain Greg Pollard of the Falmouth Fire Department recently made contact with Wayne Roberts from Puroclean expressing the need for an air compressor for the fire department.