Kentucky Insurance, Highway Safety, Wellness and More

Tornado Safety

2009-03-09T14:47:00.003-04:00

It's never a good thing when my Mom calls and says she is heading for the basement. With the recent warm weather being slammed by a cold front blast, conditions have been ripe for tornado activity in parts of Kentucky. Such was the case last night.

Having worked for the University of Kentucky Weather Center during my collegiate days, I am abit addicted to storms. I even built our new house so I could watch the storms roar up our mountain river valley. When everybody else is headed for cover, I am out on the porch with binoculars revelling in the turmoil. Probably not too smart....but I've been a storm junkie since I was a little kid.

What's the difference between a tornado watch and tornado warning?

So for my prudent readers, who wisely do not take unnecessary risks during storms, here's the skinny. A tornado watch means all the weather geeks are hovering around their Doppler's WATCHING for tornadoes. Conditions are right for tornadoes; but none have been spotted. A tornado WARNING means the weather gurus have seen a tornado and you had best get under cover. Move it!

What to do in case of a Tornado?

Here's what the government says to do in case of tornado Tornado Safety.
NOAA has great instructions for all kinds of situations you may find yourself in.

What the page doesn't cover is having flashlights handy, a couple of blankets, and a battery or solar powered radio on hand. Electric is sure to go out. Blankets can be thrown over your body to help protect yourself from flying debris. And of course a radio can let you know when danger has passed.

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Charlie Pinson Insurance KY is a Kentucky insurance agency serving all of Kentucky. With over a decade of experience, Charlie Pinson Insurance KY, offers a variety of Kentucky insurance products.

Kentucky Motorcyle Insurance Tips

2009-03-01T01:11:00.001-05:00

Rev it Up! Get ready for bike season in five simple steps

There’s nothing like cruising down the open road on your motorcycle – the wind in your hair and a few bugs in your teeth.

Before you hit the highways and byways this season, make sure your insurance policy is up to speed so that you and your bike are protected.
Here are a few tips from the experts at Progressive and Charlie Pinson Insurance Kentucky:

1. Make sure your insurance policy is still in force. Some companies have a winter layaway period when some coverages are restricted. Check with your insurance company to see if you have any type of limited coverage.

2. Update your policy. Let your insurance company know about any changes like additional riders, a new address or customized parts. A quick call to your independent agent can secure coverage that meets your needs.

3. Cover customized parts. Parts such as chrome plating, a new paint job, saddlebags or special rims usually increase the value of your bike. If you’ve added custom parts or equipment, make sure they’re protected.

4. If you don’t need it, drop it. If you own an older bike, check its value. Don’t pay for coverage that you don’t need. Consider dropping collision coverage if the premium equals 10 percent of the bike’s market value. Understand, however, that you won’t be covered if your bike overturns or collides with another object.

5. Shop around. Prices can vary from company to company, so shop around. Another tip: If you purchase comprehensive and collision coverage, consider raising your deductibles. This can lower the cost of your physical damage coverage.

For Kentucky Motorcyle insurance check out Kentucky independent insurance agent Charlie Pinson Insurance Ky.

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Charlie Pinson Insurance Ky. is a Kentucky independent insurance agent representing many Kentucky insurance carriers for you Kentucky auto insurance and Kentucky car insurance.

Handicap Access and Beyond

2009-02-24T15:57:00.004-05:00

You Just Gotta Get On with it!

Until you have to be in a wheelchair, or take care of someone in a wheelchair it is difficult to realize just how many barriers there are when on the move. Simple tasks like getting dressed seem to take hours. Finding handicap access ramps along busy city streets, and handicapped parking spaces is a real challenge. But, take it from us you just gotta get on with it!

When you run your own business, there is no time for sick days and since Charlie's accident we've only taken a couple. When a client calls, they expect us to be there. When a client needs us to come to their location, they expect us to be there. It's taken a couple of weeks to get down a commuting routine, but we have it down to a science.

And, don't think a little thing like a broken leg is going to keep us from ballroom dancing! PLEASE! Of course, we are not as graceful with the wheelchair as we are on our own feet...but hey, with some practice we'll be sure to improve. We sure didn't let the wheelchair spoil our recent dance with the Rotary Club!

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Handicap Accessible Trials and Tribulations

2009-02-16T11:47:00.008-05:00

If you follow this blog, you will know Charlie and I have been building a new home. We designed our home to be wheelchair accessible. We did this in anticipation of my mother, who may need handicap accessibility to our home at a future date. (Believe me she does one hour of aerobics a day and is in better shape than Charlie and I)

Anyway, we did not forsee Charlie breaking his leg and needing wheelchair access. So what have we learned from actually using what was deemed to be "handicap accessible?"

If you are building or adding on a porch deck; definitely put a wheelchair ramp in. We don't use the wheelchair to get out; however the gently sloped ramp is very easy to negotiate on a walker. The ramp has been handy for moving in furniture and appliances. Our elderly guests find the ramp easier to negoiate than the stairs. The ramp is also easier to keep clean during winter ice storms than the stairs. (Our dog got caught in a steel trap and had a "to the bone" wound in his front paw. He too prefers the ramp to the steps)

Our front entry is french doors; so the wide width of wheelchairs and furniture has been no problem. However, there is about a six inch step-up, designed to keep rain from coming under the doors. The step-up is a bit of a trick to use the walker, or to ease the wheelchair up and down. In hindsight, would have made it a smaller step.

All of our interior doors are thirty six inches wide. Charlie can easily maneuver himself throughout the first floor of our home. Our cental hallway is four foot wide, with space enough that he doesn't mar my walls.

Our bathroom, which we put the most thought into accessibility before construction has had a few hiccups. We made it plenty wide enough to accomodate the wheelchair or walker. A potty chair easily fits over our existing toilet. However, the potty chair has to be moved out in order to get enough room to maneuver into our shower. Oh! for six more inches of room!

We did have the forsight to install a shower with seats. We thought it was handicapped accessible, but it is not wide enough to accomodate the walker. UH! That was a problem. There was one grab bar on the long wall, but it is low and not that great when one is hobbling on one leg. We had our contractor install a couple more grab bars; one inside the shower and one at the entry so it is a little more easy to get in and out of the shower. However, it is still tricky. I would mention that it is a real challenge to find grab bars that can be retro-fitted into a shower. Most are intended for new construction. If you are remodeling the bath, go on and spend the money to get those grab bars installed before you need them.

Have you had similiar experiences? Would love to hear from you.

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Joyce Pinson is a Kentucky insurance agent as well as marketing director for Charlie Pinson Insurance KY. She looks forward to Kentucky Derby Day; when Charlie promises to be out of his wheelchair and dancing a waltz.

Kentucky Driving on Icy Roads

2009-02-10T00:57:00.004-05:00

No Slip-Sliding Away: How To Stay On The Road

(NAPS)—One thing is easy to foretell: Unpredictable weather can cause reduced visibility and hazardous driving conditions that make it challenging for even the most experienced drivers. Fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself, your passengers and your car.

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The following tips can help you stay safe when faced with treacherous roads:

Assemble a winter emergency kit. At a minimum, it should contain a blanket, boots, shovel, nonperishable food and a flashlight.

Plan ahead for stopping and turning. “Feather” the brakes when approaching a stop, especially if the road is slick. If turning, accelerate very gently through the turn.

Don’t make any sudden moves. Keep it slow and steady to maintain control.

Be cautious when braking in icy conditions. Coast over ice. Brake after reaching bare pavement. And never slam on the brakes. Brake gently in a pulsing fashion.

Steer into a skid. Remember: Locked wheels lead. If your rear tires are in a skid and “locked,” the rear of your car will start sliding to lead the car down the road. If this happens, steer into the skid, not away, and remember, don’t brake during a skid.

If you follow these tips but still find yourself in a crash, just remember that what you do after an accident can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe and in helping you and your insurance company work through a claim.

Remember to follow these tips from the experts at Charlie Pinson Insurance Kentucky and The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies if you get into an accident:

Stay calm. Stay at the scene but move off the roadway. Warn oncoming traffic by activating your hazard warning lights and/or setting flares.

Call the police.

Contact your insurance company to file a claim. The earlier your insurance company knows about the accident, the earlier it can get to work to resolve it.

Do not admit fault. Only discuss the accident with the police and your claims representative.

Exchange information with the other driver(s). And remember to get contact information for any witnesses.

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Charlie Pinson Insurance Kentucky is a Kentucky independent insurance agency serving all of the Bluegrass State including Louisville Lexington and Pikeville.

Kerosene Heat Precautions

2009-02-09T10:52:00.006-05:00

Beware of the Dangers from Kerosene Heater Use

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 6, 2009) – The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is advising Kentuckians of the possible dangers from kerosene heater use as residents seek alternative heat sources to stay warm following last week’s devastating winter ice storm.

“The improper use of kerosene heaters can become deadly if homeowners do not follow manufacturer’s instructions for this alternative heat source“, said William Hacker, M.D., DPH commissioner. “It is important to take precautionary safety measures such as allowing adequate ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and avoid fire hazards.”

Officials from DPH advise residents to follow precautionary guidelines from the National Center for Environmental Health for safe kerosene heater use:

- Be sure to properly follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for your specific heater model, making sure that the wick is set at the proper level as instructed by the manufacturer and is clean.

- Ensure your kerosene heater is only operated in a well-vented area. Leave a door open to the rest of the house or keep an outside window open to ensure an adequate flow of fresh air.

- Kerosene heaters require 1-K grade kerosene fuel. When colored or cloudy kerosene is burned, it will give off an odor, smoke and cause increased indoor pollution levels because of the fuel’s higher sulfur content. Non-1-K grade kerosene can also gum up the wick.

- Always store kerosene in a container intended for kerosene only, not in a gasoline can or a container that has contained gasoline. This helps to avoid using contaminated fuel or the wrong fuel by mistake. Kerosene containers are usually blue and gasoline containers are red.

- Never refuel the heater inside the home. Fill the tank outdoors, away from combustible materials and only after the heater has been turned off and allowed to cool. Do not fill the fuel tank above the “full” mark. This area is used to allow the fuel to expand without causing leakage when the heater is operated. Never attempt to move a lighted kerosene heater. Even a carrying handle could cause burns.

- To avoid the risk of fire, even in normal operation you should place kerosene heaters several feet away from all furniture, curtains, paper, clothes, bedding and other combustible materials.

- Infants, small children and pets should be kept away from heaters to avoid serious burns.

Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning and are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. Early symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. Carbon monoxide poisoning is treatable.

If you are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, contact the Poison Control hotline at (800) 222-1222.

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Charlie Pinson Insurance KY is a Kentucky independent insurance agency offering Kentucky Auto Insurance Quotes online. Kentucky Car insurance is just one of the many Kentucky insurance products offered through Charlie Pinson Insurance KY.

Breast Cancer Awareness

2009-02-06T00:12:00.002-05:00

First Lady Jane Beshear's Communications Office

First Lady Jane Beshear accepts check on behalf of “Horses and Hope”

Donation presented by Churchill Downs

FRANKFORT, Ky. –First Lady Jane Beshear today accepted a check on behalf of “Horses and Hope,” the breast cancer awareness program initiated by the First Lady and the Kentucky Cancer Program (KCP). The donation of more than $11,000 presented to the First Lady today in the Capitol by Churchill Downs was the result of proceeds collected during the Breast Cancer Awareness Day hosted by the track on Nov. 16, 2008.

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“It is always admirable to see the citizens of this great commonwealth come together for a common cause – to raise awareness of such a terrible disease,” said Mrs. Beshear. “I am truly thrilled that we were able to collect over $11,000 in donations to help in the fight of the second leading cause of cancer deaths among Kentucky women.”

As part of the “Horses and Hope” program, Breast Cancer Awareness Days were held at Churchill Downs, Keeneland, Turfway Park and Ellis Park.

“We are so happy that Churchill Downs could join in this initiative to increase breast cancer awareness,” said John Asher, vice president of Racing Communications at Churchill Downs. “‘Horses and Hope,’ led by Mrs. Beshear, is a wonderful project and today’s event reinforces how truly effective this program is.”

“Horses and Hope” fosters work with the state’s equine industry to identify new opportunities to provide breast cancer awareness, education, screening and treatment referral, as well as to raise funds to sustain programs into the future.

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The KCP will administer education, public awareness, provide the mobile mammography unit for the screening on the backside of tracks and handle monetary affairs for “Horses and Hope.” Donations will be placed in a University of Louisville Foundation account for the exclusive support of the project.

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The KCP at both the University of Louisville and the University of Kentucky has been awarded grants of $10,500 each from the Kentucky Breast Cancer Research and Education Trust Fund to fund breast cancer awareness, education, screening and outreach activities related to “Horses and Hope.”

In addition, the KCP at the University of Louisville has committed up to $10,000 from their 2008-09 operating budget to initiate project activities.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among Kentucky’s women. According to the Kentucky Cancer Registry, 2,700 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed on average in Kentucky women each year. Over the last five years, nearly 600 Kentucky women have died each year from breast cancer.

###

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Joyce Pinson, a Kentucky Health Insurance Agent, is a horseracing fan who longs to shed her winter coat for brightly colored spring clothes and a huge Kentucky derby hat.

Kentucky Highway Fatalities

2009-02-05T11:51:00.004-05:00

Twelve Highway Deaths On Kentucky Roads Last Week (Jan 26 - Feb 1, 2009)

Date of News Release: 02/02/09

(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that twelve people died in eight separate crashes on Kentucky roadways from Monday, January 26 through Sunday, February 1, 2009.

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All of the crashes involved motor vehicles and five of the victims were not wearing seat belts. The seat belt status of three victims is unknown at this time. Single-vehicle crashes occurred in Anderson, Carter (2), Jefferson, Ohio and Wayne counties.

Two triple-fatality crashes occurred in Lincoln and Warren county. The suspected use of alcohol was a factor in the Lincoln county crash.

Through February 1, preliminary statistics* indicate that 55 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2009. This is 8 fewer than reported for this time period in 2008. Of the 52 motor vehicle fatalities, 25 victims were not wearing seat belts. Three pedestrian have been killed. A total of 13 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.

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Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible.

*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.

Press Release Courtesy Kentucky State Police

Kentucky Insurance is available through Charlie Pinson Insurance KY. A Kentucky independent insurance agent, Charlie Pinson represents a variety of Kentucky insurance companies. His agencies offer Kentucky car insurance, as well as Kentucky health insurance, life insurance, and business insurance.

Wondering Where We Are?

2009-02-03T15:20:00.004-05:00

Well, if you haven't heard Charlie broke his leg last week while trying to install a big screen TV on the wall. It is not a bad break, but does have him somewhat out of commission for awhile.

Look for upcoming articles from us on Home Safety and Handicapped Accessibility. I think we have learned a few things you can benefit from.

Stay warm and healthy!

NAIFA features Kentucky Insurance Agent Charlie Pinson

2009-01-20T11:35:00.006-05:00

"We just do what we do," laughs Charlie Pinson when asked about a recent national magazine article his quotes appeared in. NAIFA, the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, "Advisor Today" features the Kentucky insurance agent's philosophy in the January 2009 edition.

The copyrighted article titled, "Marketing Secrets from Top Producers" reflects Pinson's penchant for local marketing strategies. "We market Charlie Pinson Insurance across Kentucky, but our home-base is Pikeville. In our hometown, people know we know insurance. But, what we want them to know is we are part of their community."

To read the NAIFA article Click here.

The January article focuses on creative ways to capture business. Pinson recounts experiences he has had by doing a ballroom dance demonstration, as well as his television sportscasting pursuits. "Do what you like, and be enthusiastic about it. I love to dance, and I love Kentucky sports. If I can combine that with my love of the insurance business, why not?"

"Too many insurance agents take themselves way too seriously," Pinson opines. "It's not all about a suit and tie. The insurance business is about people connecting. Knowledge is power, but being genuinely interested in people, their challenges, and their community is what really makes a insurance career worthwhile.

To make an appointment with Charlie Pinson, feel free to call the Pikeville KY office at 606.433.0031. The coffee is on. No suit required.

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Charlie Pinson is an independent insurance agent serving all of Kentucky including Pikeville Louisville KY : and Lexington.

Pikeville KY YMCA announces "Silver Sneakers"

2009-01-20T11:16:00.004-05:00

The Pikeville Area YMCA introduces the SilverSneakers Program. Founded in 1992, the SilverSneakers Fitness Program is the nation's leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults and offers an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially-oriented programming that allows older adults to take greater control of their health.

The unique SilverSneakers program is now available at The Pikeville Area Family YMCA at no additional cost to eligible Medicare members with the HUMANA & AARP Health insurance plans.

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SilverSneakers offers an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially oriented programming that allows older adults to take greater control of their health. This class includes work for all major and minor muscle groups addressing strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, balance, coordination, agility, speed and power. The class includes a warm-up and rhythmic range of movement, stretch, work and resistance tools, cool down, final stretch and relaxation segment. It is a total body conditioning class in which students use hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles, a SilverSneakers play ball and a chair for standing and/or seated support.

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To enroll in the SilverSneakers Program, bring your health plan membership ID card and a photo ID to The Pikeville Area Family YMCA. There will be a Senior Advisor and other friendly staff to guide you through the process!
The SilverSneakers Classes are offered at the following times: Mondays: 9:30 am; Tuesdays: 8:45 am & 5:30 pm; Wednesdays: 8:45 am; Thursdays: 8:45 am & 5:30 pm; and Fridays at 9:30 am.

Any questions? Call the Pikeville YMCA at 433-9622 or visit the YMCA online at www.pikevilleymca.org.

Article Courtesy Pike County Chamber of Commerce

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Charlie Pinson is an independent Kentucky Health Insurance Agent representing several Kentucky insurance companies including Humana Health Insurance. Humana recently partnered with the Pike County Chamber of Commerce to offer group health insurance rates to Chamber members.

Back to Kentucky Insurance Blog!

2008-12-10T11:13:00.004-05:00

I do apologize for the long absence here on the Kentucky Insurance blog. Once you hit forty, you start to realize you cannot always be superwoman, no matter what. We have been building a new home, and trying to complete everything so we can move in. It is hectic!

We started moving in about a week before Thanksgiving, but the drywall dust is still flying and there is trim that needs to be finished. In the middle of the move, we had to stop and "tidy up" to accommodate about two dozen guests for Thanksgiving festivities.

I am back to the moving mode, and trying desperately to get draperies, and pictures on the walls and windows. Not to mention preparing for the influx of holiday visitors.

So yes, I haven't been in the office as much...and yes this blog did get neglected. When you have lived in one place for 15 years, there is alot of stuff to pack and move...and let me tell you (women will understand) I just don't trust the men to move my china and breakables. So cut me some slack, I am going to get back to this full-time after the holidays. Look for weekly new posts until then.

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Joyce Pinson is a decorating perfectionist and there are alot of personal matters that have her attention right now. She will get back to being focused on Kentucky Insurance after the holidays.

Kentucky Highway Reports

2008-10-29T11:54:00.003-04:00

Seven Die On Kentucky Roadways Last (Oct. 20 through Oct. 26)

Date of News Release: 10/270/08

(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that seven people died in seven separate crashes on Kentucky roadways from Monday, October 20 through Sunday, October 26, 2008. Five of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and three of those victims were not wearing seat belts. Motor vehicle crashes occurred in Boone, Clark, Pendleton, Warren and Woodford counties. One of these crashes involved the suspected use of alcohol.

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There was one motorcycle fatality that occurred in Rowan county. The victim was not wearing a helmet. A pedestrian fatality occurred in Daviess county.

Through October 26, preliminary statistics* indicate that 630 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 90 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 471 motor vehicle fatalities, 295 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the eighty motorcycle fatalities, forty-eight were not wearing helmets. Twenty-four people have been killed in ATV crashes and twenty-two of those were not wearing helmets. Fifty pedestrians have been killed. A total of one-hundred and twenty eight fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.

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*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.

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Charlie Pinson Insurance KY, is a multi-line independent insurance agency serving all of the Commonwealth of Kentucky including Louisville Insurance Lexington and Pikeville.

Kentucky Teen Driving Week

2008-10-21T10:52:00.004-04:00

Attorney General Conway Announces Support of National Teen Driver Safety Week

Attorney General Jack Conway today announced his support for National Teen Driver Safety Week to be held October 19-25, 2008. National Teen Driver Safety Week, observed each year during the third week of October, is designed to educate teens and raise awareness about the tragedy of teen vehicle crashes and encourage youth to drive more safely. This year’s theme, “Passengers,” focuses on increasing passenger awareness of how they may contribute to driver distraction.

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“Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the U.S. and in Kentucky. While teens represent only 6% of Kentucky drivers, they account for 19% of all people involved in injury collisions and 13% of those involved in fatal collisions in the state,” General Conway said.

Also troubling are the statistics on youth alcohol-related crashes. In 2007, 519 teenage drivers were involved in alcohol-related collisions resulting in 12 fatalities, half of which were the teenage driver. According to Kentucky State Police, 3,108 teen drivers between the ages of 16-19 were arrested last year for driving under the influence.

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“Working closely with victim’s advocacy groups such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving, our office knows all too well the heartbreak behind these statistics,” said General Conway, who is also a member of the National Association of Attorneys General’s Youth Access to Alcohol Committee. This committee works to keep alcohol out of the hands of minors.

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There are several important facts regarding the incidence of teens involved in vehicle crashes. Driver error or speeding is the leading cause of teen driver crashes. Cell phones, texting, food/beverage consumption and loud music are also dangerous distractions.

“Youth drivers need to know that the phone call and texting can wait. There is nothing more important than getting from point A to point B safely,” General Conway said.

Kentucky has taken steps forward in protecting teen drivers through its graduated teen-licensing law and increasing the time young drivers must have adult supervision.

“I also applaud the Kentucky State Police ‘Drive to Stay Alive’ program for teen drivers. However, more needs to be done to ensure students are aware of the severity of a vehicle crash and the very real consequences to themselves, their passengers and the general public of operating a vehicle in an unsafe manner,” General Conway said.

Attorney General Conway now asks that the public join him to help keep our teen drivers and our roadways safe.

“We all- federal, state, local governments and the public- need to support efforts to effectively educate teens and families about ways to address increased safety measures for teen drivers. Now is the time to talk with your children and grandchildren to prevent future tragedies.”

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Charlie Pinson Insurance KY, serves all of the Commonwealth including Louisville Lexington and Pikeville. A Kentucky independent insurance agent, Charlie Pinson Insurance KY offers a variety of Kentucky Auto Insurance products from Progressive Drive Insurance, Safeco, Hartford, Farmers, Travelers, and Dairyland Sentry.

Behind the Scenes Charlie Pinson Insurance KY

2008-09-24T17:09:00.004-04:00

Health Fair Heather

All work and no play makes a Kentucky insurance office a boring place to be. So once in the while, you just gotta take a break. Even better if you can have fun and do a good deed. That's what our insurance receptionist, Heather Stiltner, did this morning.

Anita Frantom, Social Worker for Pikeville Medical Center and wife of agent Mark Frantom asked if we could spare Heather for a few minutes to kick off the hospital's Health Fair in the Park. Hey, we're not some big wall street high roller...and Heather is a key part of our team...but we needed a break. Heather is a terrific vocalist favoring tunes by Bonnie Rait, Janis Joplin and Carrie Underwood.

We all took turns "manning" Heather's reception desk, so she could go sing...and we even managed to switch out so everyone caught a snippet of her performance. We're proud of Heather, and hope you got to see her belt them out this morning.

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Heather Stiltner is a full time Kentucky insurance receptionist with Charlie Pinson Insurance Ky. In her spare time, she is also a local vocal performance.

Refrigerator out? Safe Food tips

2008-09-23T16:00:00.001-04:00

Department for Public Health Issues Guidelines for Safe Eating

The thousands of Kentuckians left without electricity after high-powered winds swept through the state Sunday afternoon are strongly encouraged to follow food safety guidelines endorsed by the Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) to prevent food contamination and related illness.

DPH staff recommends keeping freezers closed to maintain the proper temperature for frozen foods. A full freezer will hold the temperature for approximately 48 hours and for 24 hours if the freezer is half full.

DPH cautions that a refrigerator will only hold its temperature for about four hours, meaning food items such as milk, dairy products, meats, eggs and leftovers should be placed in a cooler surrounded by ice if the outage lasts for more than four hours. Dry ice can be used to keep refrigerators cold. If the outage lasts for several days, 50 pounds of dry ice should preserve food in an 18-cubic foot full freezer for two days. (You must be careful when handling dry ice. Never touch dry ice with bare hands or breathe its vapors in an enclosed area. Dry ice is frozen carbon dioxide, a gas).

“Horrible situations like this one emphasize the need for emergency preparedness in the home,” said William Hacker, M.D., DPH commissioner. “Food that is improperly stored or handled can lead to foodborne illness, which can be debilitating and in some cases life threatening.”

If left without power, purchase one or more coolers, ice and a digital, dial or instant-read food thermometer, DPH recommends. Public health guidelines also recommend keeping appliance thermometers in the refrigerator and freezer, no matter how long the power has been out. The refrigerator temperature should be 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below; the freezer should be 0 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.

“If you are not sure a particular food is cold enough, take its temperature with a food thermometer,” said Hacker.

DPH recommends limiting the opening of freezer and refrigerator doors, even if an appliance has been out but returns to function within a couple of hours. If the freezer is not full, DPH strongly advises that poultry and meat items be grouped away from other foods to prevent juices from contaminating other items.

When the refrigerator and/or freezer are operating again, follow these guidelines to decide what to do with foods:

· Refrigerated foods should be safe as long as power is out for no more than four hours.

· Throw out any perishable food in your refrigerator, such as meat, poultry, lunchmeats, fish, dairy products, eggs and any prepared or cooked foods that have been above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for two hours. Bacteria can multiply to unsafe levels under these conditions.

· Fresh fruits and vegetables are safe as long as they are still firm and there is no evidence of mold or sliminess.

· If an appliance thermometer was kept in the freezer, read the temperature when power comes back on. If the appliance thermometer stored in the freezer reads 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below, the food is safe and may be refrozen.

· If a thermometer has not been kept in the freezer, check each package of food to determine the safety.

· If the food still contains ice crystals or is 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below, it is safe to refreeze.

· Raw meats, poultry, cheese, juices, breads and pastries can be refrozen without losing too much food quality.

· Prepared food, fish, vegetables and fruits in the freezer can be refrozen safely, but food quality may suffer.

“Remember, you can’t rely on appearance or odor of the food to determine if it’s safe,” said Hacker. “Food that has thawed or was held above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for more than two hours should be thrown out because bacteria may multiply to unsafe levels.”

To remove spills and freshen the freezer and refrigerator, DPH recommends washing with a solution of two tablespoons of baking soda dissolved in one quart of warm water. To absorb any lingering odors, place an open box or dish of baking soda in the appliance.

Insurance and Financial Institutions in Turmoil...What does it all mean?

2008-09-18T11:46:00.006-04:00

As the marketing director for Charllie Pinson Insurance KY the question of "Where does the industry go from here?" has been on my mind this week. Insurance giant, AIG, has sure taken a beating and of course had a government bailout.

As a Kentucky independent insurance agent, I am surely grateful that our agency has many companies to offer our clients; not just one company. We represent Progressive, Hartford, Safeco, Travellers, Farmers and several other Kentucky Auto Insurance providers. We also represent AIG; but the point is we offer our clients the power to choose.

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In this day when big companies continue to swallow up smaller companies it's hard to keep up. Safeco was bought by Liberty Mutual. Wachovia, Merrill Lynch, Lyman Bros, and others are all in the news with dramatic changes.

It just goes to show you that bigger is not always better. Sure, we want to grow our business, just like any other successful business. But at the same time, with too rapid growth of overhead pursueing "the next level" of success comes at the costs of reducing profitablility. You spend more money; but make less profit. They called that the "Law of Dimishing Returns" when I was an econmics student.

With all the turmoil, you have to be watchful. As for Charlie Pinson Insurance KY we are going to stick with what we know....offering our clients downhome personal service with the choice of doing business with numerous insurance companies. Sometimes, it's fun to be the hare...but the slow and steady turtle always wins the race.

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Joyce Pinson is the marketing director for Charlie Pinson Insurance KY, and it's sister Kentucky health insurance agencies. Joyce attended the University of Kentucky majoring in Agricultural Economics.

Flue Shots...Get'em while they are available!

2008-09-18T01:20:00.002-04:00

Governor Beshear Encourages Kentuckians to Get Influenza Vaccinations; Increased emphasis this year aims to protect more children with flu shots

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 12, 2008) – With influenza season just around the corner and an ample supply of vaccine expected this season, Governor Steve Beshear joined state and local health officials at the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department today to urge Kentuckians to get a flu shot or nasal vaccine spray — and to encourage parents to make sure children older than 6 months also receive protection against the flu.

“The best way to protect yourself and your family against the flu is to receive the flu shot or nasal vaccine spray. This year the federal government has released new recommendations that emphasize the need for most children over 6 months of age to receive annual flu vaccinations,” said Gov. Beshear. “Ensuring that all eligible children and adults are vaccinated helps protect the health of our communities at large, by reducing the flu’s spread and severity.”

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ (ACIP) updated recommendations for the coming flu season include:

• Annual vaccination of all children aged 5-18 years;

• Children aged 6 months through 4 years (59 months) continue to be a primary focus of annual vaccination efforts because these children are at a higher risk for flu complications compared with older children;

• Children aged 6 months-8 years should receive two doses of vaccine if they have not been vaccinated previously; and

• Healthy, non-pregnant people aged 2-49 years can receive either the flu shot or the nasal vaccine spray.

The focus on increasing vaccination among children reflects the serious health effects the flu can potentially cause among this population. Children younger than 2 years old — even healthy children — have a high risk of ending up in the hospital if they get the flu, and children 2-5 years old are more likely to be taken to a doctor, urgent treatment center or an emergency department due to the flu, according to the CDC. Each year in the U.S., as many as 20,000 children under age 5 are hospitalized because of the flu.

Kentucky expects local health departments and private providers to have plenty of vaccine on hand for this year’s season, and clinics are already being scheduled at many locations around the state. For information on vaccine availability, Kentuckians should contact their health provider or local health department.

“It’s important that children and others receive a flu vaccine each year to ensure maximum protection,” said Kraig Humbaugh, M.D., state epidemiologist at the Department for Public Health.

The flu season can begin as early as October and last as late as May, but usually peaks between January and March. September, October and November are good months to be vaccinated for flu because it takes about two weeks for immunity to develop and offer protection against flu. However, vaccination can be given any time during the flu season. Infection with the flu virus can cause fever, headache, cough, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing and body aches.

Immunization is strongly recommended to protect Kentuckians 65 and older and those with a chronic disease such as heart disease, cancer, asthma or diabetes. Healthy individuals 50 to 64 are also strongly recommended to receive flu vaccine.

In addition to flu vaccine, the officials encouraged all adults 65 or older and others in high-risk groups to ask their health care provider about the pneumococcal vaccine. This vaccine can help prevent a type of pneumonia, one of the flu’s most serious and potentially deadly complications.

Caused by bacteria, pneumococcal disease can result in serious pneumonia, meningitis or blood infections. According to the CDC, pneumococcal disease kills more people in the U.S. each year than all other vaccine-preventable diseases combined. Nationally, between 20,000 and 40,000 deaths are attributable to flu and pneumonia each year, with more than 90 percent of those deaths occurring in people age 65 and older.

For more information on influenza disease or the availability of flu immunizations, please contact your local health department or visit DPH’s flu Web site at http://www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/Influenza.htm.

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Mark Frantom, Incoming Pikeville Kiwanis President

2008-09-17T09:58:00.005-04:00

Behind the scenes

Mark Frantom , the personal lines manager here at Charlie Pinson Insurance KY recently attended the annual Kiwanis District Convention held in Kingsport, TN. He was accompanied by his wife, Anita, and fellow Pikeville Kiwanians Roger Davis and Randy Thomas.

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Frantom, the incoming President for the Pikeville Kiwanis Club, attended a variety of seminars including Leadership Training for Club presidents. Highlights of the gathering included the Governor's banquet, Installation of new district officers, a trade show, and arts and crafts fair.

We at Charlie Pinson Insurance are very proud of Mark's efforts as a community leader. In addition to his work with the Pikeville Kiwanis, Mark is active with Pikeville College's football team and a his son's Cub Scouts and little league sports.

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Mark Frantom is a licensed Kentucky independent insurance agent. Mark writes a variety of coverages including Kentucky auto and motorcycle. Mark is especially fond of collectible cars, and enjoys seeing what cool vehicles he can help insure. Contact Mark at 606.433.0031.

Kentucky Small Business Resources Recieve Economic Boost

2008-09-10T14:45:00.005-04:00

U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05) announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded a $251,848 Rural Business Enterprise Grant to Morehead State University (MSU). This funding will be used to enable the University’s East Kentucky Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) in Morehead, Ashland and Pikeville, to continue providing business resources to stimulate the economy and spur job growth in southern and eastern Kentucky.

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“With these USDA funds, MSU, through these regional small business development centers, will be able to expand an already extensive mission by putting invaluable professional consulting resources and important business analyses directly into the hands of local companies,” Rogers said. “In a global economy with constantly changing market dynamics, our industry leaders must stay ahead of the curve, understand their financing options, and constantly innovate with new techniques and business plans to bolster operations. This assistance translates into job creation, cost-savings, and business growth for the citizens of Southern and Eastern Kentucky.”

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MSU’s East Kentucky Small Business Development Centers serve a 25-county area in eastern Kentucky. The centers provide one-on-one counseling, technical assistance, and group training programs for small and emerging businesses in the service region. In addition, the funds will be used for a Regional Entrepreneur Conference and a Women’s Business Symposium.

This grant was provided by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development

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Finalist Southeastern KY Excellence in Entrepreneurship

2008-09-09T11:38:00.007-04:00

Congratulations to Charlie Pinson, Insurance Agent

The annual 2008 Excellence in Entrepereneurship Awards Luncheon for Southeastern Kentucky was recently held at the Center for Rural Development in Somerset, Ky. A joint program of Eastern Kentucky College of Business and Technology, the Kentucky Highlands Investment Corporation, and The Center for Rural Development the program honors a variety of business entities and budding entrepreureurs. The competition Awards include Not for Profit, Start-up business, For Profit Small Business with less than 25 employees, and For Profit Small Business with more than 25 employess.

Pikeville Business man, Charlie Pinson, was recognized as a top finalists in the Not for Profit less than 25 employee category. Other Pike Countians recognized included Stephanie Richards with Artists Collaborative Theatre for a Non-Profit entity, and Shannon Wright with Wright Concrete and Construction in For-Profit business with over 25 employees. Emily Coleman, a high school student from Elkorn City, was on the first place team for the 2008 Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute.

Pinson comments,"Pike County is a great place to do business. Like most small businesses, we have had our challenges, but we keep plugging along. I cannot imagine anywhere else I would want to be."

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Charlie Pinson is a Kentucky Independent Insurance agent, licensed throughout the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Charlie is partner in three insurance agencies, and is known as "The Voice of Pikeville College Bears." Get Kentucky Auto Insurance Quotes Get Kentucky Health Insurance.

Kentucky Workers Compensation Losses Decreased

2008-08-27T16:27:00.004-04:00

Annual Workers' Comp Filing Approved

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 27, 2008) – A 2008 filing most insurance carriers will use to develop rates for workers’ compensation coverage shows the third straight decrease in loss costs, Department of Insurance Commissioner Sharon P. Clark announced today.

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The filing, approved by the state Department of Insurance and effective Oct. 1, is by the National Council on Compensation Insurance Inc. (NCCI), an advisory organization that serves as the oldest provider of workers’ compensation and employee injury data and statistics in the nation.

“As businesses face tough economic times, this is a welcome piece of news,” said Clark. “Workers’ compensation insurance is a large cost of doing business. This also is good news for hardworking Kentuckians since the report shows a continuing decline in the number of workplace injuries and a slight decline in the severity of those claims.”

Data collected from insurance carriers is used to develop loss costs, which is the average compensation for lost wages, based on the level of disability, plus medical benefit payments. Use of the information is voluntary but most workers’ comp carriers use the NCCI loss cost values as a base to which the insurer’s own loss adjustment and overhead expenses are added to arrive at the rates charged to Kentucky employers.

The loss cost figures show an average reduction of 5.1 percent for the 596 industrial classes used in Kentucky. These classes include manufacturing, office and clerical, contracting, and goods and services. For coal classes, underground mining costs dropped 10.5 percent while surface mining decreased 8.7 percent.

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Charlie Pinson Insurance KY is a Kentucky insurance agency offering a variety of Kentucky insurance products including Kentucky Worker's Compensation and Kentucky business insurance. Employee benefits and Group Health Insurance are available through their sister agency Triple B Insurance of Pikeville. Call 606.433.0031 for more information.

Fake Kentucky Insurance Cards lead to charges

2008-08-26T01:30:00.000-04:00

Nine Charged in Fake Auto Insurance Card Round-Up

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 25, 2008) – A sharp eye for detail in the Clay County clerk’s office resulted in nine Manchester area residents being charged with insurance fraud for creating or possessing fake auto insurance identification cards.

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When Clay County Clerk Freddy Thompson and his staff began seeing suspicious or altered proof of insurance cards, he brought it to the attention of the Kentucky Department of Insurance (DOI) Fraud Investigation Division. DOI fraud investigators contacted Manchester Police Chief Jeff Culver and Clay County Sheriff Kevin Johnson, along with County Attorney Clay Bishop, and began a joint investigation.

“Auto insurance is mandatory in Kentucky, and proof of insurance is required to license a vehicle. Unfortunately, the creation and possession of fake insurance cards is one of the most prevalent fraudulent activities we investigate,” said DOI Commissioner Sharon P. Clark. “Those who drive without insurance create a financial hazard for everyone.”

Culver and Thompson believe the investigation has been positive for the community, and Thompson said his staff is seeing fewer questionable cards.

“We believe news of this investigation will deter others from doing the same thing,” said Culver.

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“This is an example of teamwork at its best,” said Commissioner Clark. “I commend the Clay County law enforcement officials and Mr. Thompson and his staff for the outstanding assistance and cooperation we received in completing our investigation.”

Those charged with felony counts of insurance fraud for possessing fake cards are: Marshall D. Bodkins, 22; Lois Ann Hunter, 46; Daniel C. Mayfield, 27; Alta Mae Nolan, 29, and Bobby J. Wombles, 34, all of Manchester; David G. Caudill, 46, of Fall Rock; Rebecca Roberts, 29, of Big Creek; and Evelyn J. Simpson, 63, of Garrard. Teresa Bowling, 43, of Manchester was charged with a felony count of second degree forgery for creating a fake card.

The nine are scheduled to appear in Clay District Court on Sept. 16.

DOI is an agency of the Public Protection Cabinet.

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Charlie Pinson Insurance KY is a Kentucky independent insurance agency serving all of Kentucky. Charlie represents numberous Kentucky auto insurance companies including Progressive, AIG, Hartford, Safeco, Travellers, Farmers, Sentry Dairyland, and others.

Sucide Prevention...a new dialoge

2008-08-25T09:30:00.002-04:00

CHFS to Kick Off Suicide Prevention Campaign

To help end the stigma and silence associated with suicide, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), the Kentucky Suicide Prevention Group (KSPG) and the Department for Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addiction Services are launching a public awareness campaign about one of the most preventable, yet common, forms of death.

The “Let’s Talk: Kentuckians Affected by Suicide End the Silence” awareness campaign will launch at an event at 2:30 p.m. on Sept. 4 at the Capital Plaza Hotel in Frankfort. The event, which will feature a new educational video, is designed to educate Kentuckians about the warning signs of suicide; make people more aware of the prevalence of suicide in society; and help people discuss suicide.

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“The ‘Let’s Talk’ campaign is truly a courageous effort in our continued work to prevent suicide in Kentucky,” said CHFS Secretary Janie Miller. “Far too many Kentuckians are suffering in silence, and warning signs are being overlooked. By training our communities to be proactive and teaching our loved ones, friends and neighbors how to communicate about suicide, we can reduce the number of suicide deaths in Kentucky.”

According to a 2007 study, 64 percent of Kentucky adults knew at least one person who had attempted or died by suicide. The “Let’s Talk” campaign takes a closer look at what it’s like to be personally affected by suicide, and features several Kentuckians who will share their personal stories, as well as what they’ve learned from the experience.

“Keeping suicide a secret perpetuates suicide,” said Jenny Jones, chair of the KSPG steering committee who lost her mother, grandmother and other family members to suicide and is featured in the “Let’s Talk” video. “For many struggling with mental health issues or experiencing thoughts of suicide, there is no outlet. We have to change that.”

In addition to Jones, other stories in the video include the friend of a young Marine who died by suicide after returning to Kentucky from war and a parent discussing youth suicide contagion (one suicide becoming the trigger for other suicides). The video also includes information on suicide on college campuses, suicide among select ages or populations, and suicide among Kentuckians affected by HIV/AIDS.

The “Let’s Talk” event will be emceed by WHAS radio talk show host Francene Cucinello and will be broadcast to locations across the state via satellite through the assistance of WLEX-TV in Lexington. Participants will receive community action materials to use in their hometowns.

Seating for the general public at the “Let’s Talk” kick-off is limited, and reservations are required by contacting Cheryl Ligon at (502) 564-4456 or Email.

For more information about how to save a life, visit www.kentuckysuicideprevention.org or call (502) 564-4456.

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So many people in this world are hurting. Some think about suicide. Some live with the knowledge that someone they loved could not connect...and eventually took their own lives. If you are contemplating suicide, reach out and get help!

Charlie Pinson Insurance KY...Finalist in Excellence In Entrepreunership Awards

2008-08-17T15:43:00.008-04:00

2008 EXCELLENCE IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARDS

RICHMOND, Ky. − Eastern Kentucky University’s College of Business and Technology, Kentucky Highlands Investment Corp. and The Center for Rural Development will present the 2008 Excellence in Entrepreneurship Awards (EIEA) on Monday, Sept. 8 during a 11:30 luncheon program at The Center’s headquarters in Somerset, Ky.
Eastern Kentucky University President Dr. Doug Whitlock will serve as emcee for the event and Kentucky Economic Development Cabinet Secretary John Hindman will serve as the keynote speaker.

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The annual award was established in 2001 to honor excellence in entrepreneurship throughout Eastern and Southern Kentucky. Awards will be given in four categories – Business, Small Business, Start-Up, and Non-Profit Business – and are determined by the economic success of the enterprise, contributions to the community, job creation and operational achievement as measured by innovative business practices, superior safety achievement and superior technology.

The 2008 awards program will include recognition of the Excellence in Entrepreneurship Collegiate Business Concept Challenge award honorees and the first place team in the youth Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute Business Concept Competition.

“We’ve seen that small companies comprise the engine that drives most of our economy,” said Dr. Robert Rogow, dean of EKU’s College of Business and Technology. “We want to do whatever we can through our partnership to foster small-business development and recognize those who’ve been successful in developing companies in Eastern and Southern Kentucky.”

Finalists in the four business categories are:

For-Profit Business: Mr. Richard Rednour, II, owner/president, Rednour Properties, LLC, Clay City, Ky.; Mr. Terry E. Forcht, president/CEO, Forcht Group of Kentucky, Corbin, Ky.; Mr. Shannon Wright and Mr. Kendall Wright, owners, Wright Concrete & Construction, Inc., Dorton, Ky.

For-Profit Small Business: Mr. Jerry W. Rice, owner, Panco Wood Shop, Oneida, Ky.; Mr. Charlie Pinson, president/owner, Charlie Pinson Insurance, Pikeville, Ky.; Mr. Steve Taylor, president, EST Tool & Machine, Inc., Brodhead, Ky.

Start-Up Business: Mr. Brant Poore, president, and Mr. Raymond Sears, vice-president, Information Capture Solutions, LLC, Williamsburg, Ky.; Mr. Brian Floyd and Mr. Scott Floyd, owners, Floyd Industries, LLC, Liberty, Ky.; Ms. Cindy and Mr. Norm Kelly, owners, EZ Care, LLC, Richmond, Ky.

Not-For-Profit Entity: Ms. Stephanie Richards, artistic director, Artists Collaborative Theater, Elkhorn City, Ky.; Mr. Lonnie Cowan, executive director, Chronic Pain Support Group, Inc., offices in Clark, Jessamine, Bourbon, Laurel, Boyle, Montgomery, Madison and Taylor counties, Ky.; Ms. Debbie Long, executive director, God’s Food pantry of Pulaski County, Somerset, Ky.

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“Supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses is at the heart of the mission of The Center for Rural Development,” said Lonnie Lawson, president and CEO of The Center, “and the encouragement and recognition of Kentucky’s future business leaders is fundamental to the realization of that mission.”

Jerry Rickett, president and CEO of Kentucky Highlands Investment Corp., said “Entrepreneurs are visionaries and risk-takers vital to any community. Whether they succeed or fail, their tenacity and adventurous spirit need to be recognized and applauded. That’s what the Excellence in Entrepreneurship Awards is about.”
2007 award recipients were Stephen P. Branscum, president, Branscum Construction Co., Inc., Russell Springs, Ky – For-Profit Business; Barbara Napier, owner, Snug Hollow Bed & Breakfast, Irvine, Ky. – For-Profit Small Business; Lowell Land, president, Acres of Land Winery, Richmond, Ky. – Start-Up Business; and Wilma
Kelly, executive director, Beattyville Housing and Development Corp., Inc, Beattyville, Ky. – Not-For-Profit Entity. Award recipients in the Collegiate Business Concept Challenge were Patti Holly and Lauren Hale, student honorees; Dr. Bill Davig, EKU Business advisor; and Eastern Kentucky University as the sponsoring school. Also honored at the luncheon was the 2007 Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute Business Concept Challenge team of Rebekah Smith, Staffordsville; Michael Wright, Stanford; Kenna Trent, Morehead; and Richie Mathes, Corbin.
Award winners from previous years will receive invitations to the annual EIEA program and be recognized for their achievement.

For more information on the Monday, September 8 EIEA luncheon program, please visit www.eiea.eku.edu and follow the EIEA links. Information can also be found on the Web at www.centertech.com by following the EIEA links. Reservations for the program are $20 per person and may be made by calling The Center for Rural Development at (606) 677-6000 or by e-mail at enea@centertech.com. Checks should be made payable to The Center for Rural Development and mailed to: The Center, Attn: EIEA Luncheon, 2292 S. Hwy. 27, Somerset, KY 42501.

To be eligible for the Excellence In Entrepreneurship Awards competition, businesses must be in one of the following 55 Eastern and Southern Kentucky counties: Adair, Bath, Bell, Boyd, Boyle, Breathitt, Carter, Casey, Clark, Clay, Clinton, Cumberland, Edmonson, Elliott, Estill, Fleming, Floyd, Garrard, Green, Greenup, Harlan, Hart, Jackson, Jessamine, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Laurel, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lewis, Lincoln, McCreary, Madison, Magoffin, Martin, Menifee, Metcalf, Monroe, Montgomery, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Powell, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Rowan, Russell, Taylor, Wayne, Whitley, or Wolfe.

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Charlie Pinson Insurance KY is a Kentucky Independent Insurance agency offering Kentucky insurance throughout the Bluegrass state. Representing many different companies, the agency provides many choices to it's valued customers.

Charlie Pinson Insurance KY....Kentucky Sports

2008-08-14T10:25:00.005-04:00

A life outside our Kentucky Insurance Office

Insurance is our business, and a big part of our life. But as Kentucky independent insurance agents, we really do have a life outside the office and business community.

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We like to say "an office that plays together stays together". For Charlie Pinson Insurance KY, part of that play comes from Pikeville College Bears Football. Owner, Charlie Pinson is "The Voice of Pikeville College Bears" on WPRG-TV5. Personal lines manager, Mark Frantom, is the Kentucky sports camera man. Agent, Joyce Pinson, keeps the Pikeville College press box furnished in brownies and sweets and can be counted among the Bears loudest fans. And then there's our file clerk, Justin Lamb.

We all live a little vicariously through Justin, a returning senior to the Pikeville College Bears Football squad. Justin does a good job on and off the field, in the classroom, and the in the office. We are so proud of him!

Read about Justin Lamb a Senior Pikeville College Bear

If you enjoy Kentucky Sports, check out our Kentucky sports blog.

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The staff at Charlie Pinson Insurance and Triple B Insurance wish Justin Lamb and the Pikeville College Bears a spectacular winning season. Go Bears!

Back to school time to shop Kentucky Auto Insurance

2008-08-11T10:11:00.006-04:00

With the kids back in school, consumers are now making the move to shop their Kentucky insurance. Last week, we received a record breaking number of calls for Kentucky auto insurance quotes.

As a Kentucky independent insurance agency, Charlie Pinson Insurance KY, offers KY car insurance from a number of carriers including Safeco, Hartford, AIG, Travelers, Farmers Insurance, Dairyland, and Progressive. Can we save you money?

Last week, I vented here about how much gas prices are eating into my family budget. Are you feeling the pinch? Do not drive around town, to agents who refuse to quote over the phone or internet. We'll quote you, and you won't have to leave home. Some of our insurance carriers let you purchase Kentucky Auto Insurance online!

Save Money! Save time!
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Joyce Pinson does Kentucky auto insurance marketing for Charlie Pinson Insurance Ky and Kentucky health insurance marketing for Triple B Insurance KY.

Kentucky Insurance Feeling the Squeeze

2008-08-04T03:11:00.001-04:00

You know, I try to do my part. Especially when it comes to economizing. I consolidate my errand trips. I shop local as much as possible to support the Kentucky economy. I use coupons, and I shop sales. I am not above shopping at local thrift stores. With a background in economics, you would think I would be smart enough to manage a tight budget.

Today, my mid-sized car sucked up $59 at the gas pump! Fifty nine dollars! All I do is go to work, the grocery and the dry cleaners. Fifty nine dollars! OUCH!

And so it it is no wonder, our Kentucky insurance office is seeing more calls for folks shopping their Kentucky car insurance. And, it's not just kids and newlyweds...it's blue collar and white collar people alike. With the cost of gas, I think everyone is feeling a squeeze on the budget.

Can we help you? When was the last time you shopped your Kentucky Auto Insurance? We cannot help with gas prices, but maybe we can help with your insurance budget.

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Joyce Pinson is a Kentucky health insurance agent. Charlie Pinson Insurance KY offers several diffent insurance companies for Kentucky Auto insurance including Progressive, AIG, Hartford, Safeco, Travelers and Farmers Insurance. Visit our website at www.pinsoninsurance.com

Kentucky Insurance Fraud Georgetown

2008-08-01T01:49:00.002-04:00

GEORGETOWN MAN CHARGED WITH INSURANCE FRAUD

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 31, 2008) – A Georgetown man has been charged with one felony count of insurance fraud after providing false information to Bluegrass Family Health Inc.

Darrell E. Gibson Jr. and his wife, Veronica, were divorced in December 2003. In December 2004, he allegedly listed her as his spouse on an application for health insurance obtained through his business. Veronica Gibson remained on the policy until June 2007. During that time, Bluegrass Family Health paid more than $169,000 in benefits for her health care.

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The case was investigated by the Kentucky Department of Insurance (DOI) Fraud Investigation Division.

“The company paid a significant amount in health care benefits for someone who was not eligible for coverage,” said Sharon P. Clark, DOI commissioner. “Our Fraud division actively pursues cases like this one because we all pay when insurance fraud is committed.”

The preliminary hearing in Scott District Court will be Aug. 7. If found guilty, Darrell Gibson faces a prison term of one to five years, a fine of up to $10,000, or both imprisonment and a fine.

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Louisville Insurance Fraud KY Business Insurance

2008-07-30T02:59:00.001-04:00

LOUISVILLE BUSINESS OWNER INDICTED BY GRAND JURY

Allegedly provided fake liability insurance certificates for business

From The Department of Insurance is an agency of the Public Protection Cabinet.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 17, 2008) – A Louisville business owner has been charged with eight felony counts of insurance fraud and eight felony counts of criminal possession of a forged instrument after allegedly presenting fraudulent liability insurance certificates for his business, All Star Trucking Company.

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Robert E. Holbert, 65, allegedly provided the fake documents to at least five companies doing business with All Star Trucking, claiming to have valid coverage when he did not, according to an investigation by the Kentucky Department of Insurance Fraud Investigation Division.

A pre-trial conference is scheduled for Sept. 2 in Jefferson Circuit Court. If found guilty, Holbert faces a prison term of one to five years on each count (not to exceed 20 years); a fine of up to $10,000 per count; or both imprisonment and a fine.

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Louisville KY Insurance Fraud KY Car Insurance

2008-07-29T14:49:00.004-04:00

LOUISVILLE WOMAN INDICTED FOR INSURANCE FRAUD

Allegedly left scene of accident, claimed she hit parking lot post

From The Department of Insurance is an agency of the Public Protection Cabinet

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 16, 2008) – A Louisville woman has been indicted on one felony count of insurance fraud after allegedly filing a false claim with Nationwide Insurance Company.

Linda M. Schierer, 69, stated under oath that she drove her 2008 Toyota Corolla into a concrete post in a parking lot. The insurer’s inspection revealed damage inconsistent with striking a post. During the investigation, Schierer admitted that she was involved in a collision with another vehicle and left the scene of the accident.

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Nationwide denied the claim based on the material misrepresentation. She was indicted on a felony charge because the benefit for a paid claim would have been more than $300.

The case was investigated by the Kentucky Department of Insurance Fraud Investigation Division.

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A pre-trial conference is scheduled for Aug. 18 in Jefferson Circuit Court. If found guilty, Schierer faces a prison sentence of one to five years; a fine of $10,000 or twice the amount of gain; or both a prison sentence and a fine.

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Kentucky Highway Safety

2008-07-28T11:32:00.003-04:00

Nine Fatalities Reported on Kentucky Roadways Last Week (July 14th - 20th)

(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that nine people died in eight separate crashes on Kentucky roadways from Monday, July 14 through Sunday, July 20, 2008. Seven of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and five of those victims were not wearing seat belts. Motor vehicle crashes occurred in Boyle, Knott, Madison, Taylor and Webster counties. A double-fatality motor-vehicle crash occurred in Russell county.

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A motorcycle fatality occurred in Pike county and the suspected use of alcohol was a factor. The victim was not wearing a helmet.

A bicycle fatality occurred in Jefferson county when a motor vehicle struck the bicycle as it was exiting I-65 onto the outer loop. The victim was not wearing a helmet.

Through July 20, preliminary statistics* indicate that 403 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 73 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 315 motor vehicle fatalities, 197 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 42 motorcycle fatalities, 23 were not wearing helmets. Eleven people have been killed in ATV crashes and 10 of those were not wearing helmets. Thirty-three pedestrians have been killed. A total of 79 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.

*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.

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Kentucky's Lady Jane Horses of Hope Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign

2008-07-24T10:19:00.006-04:00

First Lady Jane Beshear Announces 'Horses and Hope' to Fight Breast Cancer

State awards breast cancer grants

FRANKFORT, Ky. – First lady Jane Beshear today announced “Horses and Hope,” an initiative she has created with the Kentucky Cancer Program. The project will foster work with the state’s equine industry to identify new opportunities to provide breast cancer awareness, education, screening and treatment referral, as well as to raise funds to sustain programs into the future.

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-“Most of you know of my great love for horses,” said Mrs. Beshear. “Horses and Hope will combine my passion for these great animals with the fight to cure this disease.”

“Horses and Hope” will also be supported by the Pink Stable, a committee of women horse owners, trainers, jockeys, race track representatives and others convened by the first lady. In addition to Mrs. Beshear, who chairs the committee, members of the Pink Stable include Wende Bell, Anita Cauley, Patricia Cooksey, Carol Farmer, Mary Midkiff, Susan Nicholson, Ann McBrayer and Donna Ward.

“Horses and Hope” will sponsor Breast Cancer Race Days to raise awareness at Kentucky’s racetracks on the following days:

Aug. 16 – Ellis Park

Sept. 26 – Turfway Park

Oct. 24 – Keeneland

Nov. 16 – Churchill Downs

Other activities planned include:

Backside Outreach, where we will provide breast cancer education, awareness and screening to track workers and their families, placing special emphasis on the uninsured and underinsured;

Development of materials and a website that provide screening and treatment resources for Kentuckians; and

Working with colleagues in the equine industry to secure financial and in-kind contributions for “Horses and Hope” programs.

The Kentucky Cancer Program at both the University of Louisville and the University of Kentucky has been awarded grants ($10,500 each) from the Kentucky Breast Cancer Research and Education Trust Fund to fund breast cancer awareness, education, screening and outreach activities related to “Horses and Hope.”

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In addition, the Kentucky Cancer Program at the University of Louisville has committed up to $10,000 from their 2008-09 operating budget to initiate project activities.

The Kentucky Cancer Program at the University of Louisville will administer fiscal affairs for Horses and Hope. Donations will be placed in a University of Louisville Foundation account for the exclusive support of the project.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among Kentucky’s women. According to the Kentucky Cancer Registry, an average of 2,700 new cases of breast cancer is diagnosed in Kentucky women each year. Over the last five years, an average of nearly 600 Kentucky women has died each year from breast cancer.

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Kentucky Independent Insurance Agents

2008-07-23T14:21:00.004-04:00

Designing your own Destiny

Every once in the while, someone will ask why we choose to be an independent insurance agent instead of a captive insurance agent. Captive agents, that work for one company have many career advantages. However, when you tally the balance sheet being an independent insurance agent is one of the best jobs in the world.

Independent Insurance agents represent many insurance companies. No one company controls their paycheck, or controls the products and price points that are offered to clients. By bringing product choices to the client, independent agents have the ability to compare coverage needs and premiums. Clients can make better informed decisions when they have alternatives and choices.

If you are considering a career in Kentucky insurance, consider being an independent insurance agent. The book of business you build, will be your own. You set your own goals, make your own business decisions, and have the opportunity to bring clients a smorgasbord of choices. It's not a get rich quick career; but if you stick with it the rewards are worth the effort.

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Joyce Pinson is a Kentucky independent insurance agent specializing in Kentucky health insurance Joyce is also the marketing director for Charlie Pinson Insurance KY.

Kentucky Auto Insurance Fraud Louisville KY

2008-07-17T12:19:00.004-04:00

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 16, 2008) – A Louisville woman has been indicted on one felony count of insurance fraud after allegedly filing a false claim with Nationwide Insurance Company.

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Nationwide denied the claim based on the material misrepresentation. She was indicted on a felony charge because the benefit for a paid claim would have been more than $300.

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The case was investigated by the Kentucky Department of Insurance Fraud Investigation Division.

The Department of Insurance is an agency of the Public Protection Cabinet.

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Charlie Pinson Insurance KY is a Kentucky independent insurance agency representing many companies including AIG, Farmers, Hartford, Progressive Insurance, Safeco Insurance, and Dairyland Sentry.

Pikeville KY Health Screening Offered Tomorrow

2008-07-16T03:44:00.002-04:00

National College’s Pikeville Campus to Host Community Health Fair
Event will offer free health screenings

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PIKEVILLE, KY – The Pikeville Campus of National College (www.national-college.edu; 606-478-7200), located at 50 National College Boulevard, will host a community health fair on Thursday, July 17 from 1:00 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Free health screenings will be offered including vision, skin damage, blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol. Consultants will also be available for smoking cessation, weight loss, personal training, and healthy tanning. The college’s medical students will be on hand for osteopathic manipulation.

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The Pike and Floyd County Health Departments will offer two fascinating exhibits. Entertainment will be provided by WXCC 96.5 and 93.1 WDHR. Admission to the fair is free and refreshments will be provided.

The Pikeville campus has served the area since 1975 and offers a career-oriented education. Students may choose from five associate degree programs, or eleven short-term diploma programs in business, computers, and health care.

National College operates a total of 24 campuses in Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, and Indiana, serving more than 10,000 students annually.

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Charlie Pinson Insurance KY, and it's sister agencies Triple B Insurance and C & B Insurance, are Kentucky Independent insurance agencies offering a variety of products and services including Kentucky Health Insurance, Kentucky Car Insurance and Kentucky Life Insurance.

Teens off too college? Beware Scholarship Scams

2008-07-15T04:08:00.000-04:00

Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority

June Financial Aid Tip of the Month

Parents of college-bound students probably hear a lot of sales pitches from companies that promise to help find financial aid to pay for college.

There’s no need to pay for this kind of information. It may be obtained free by working with your guidance counselor, checking out sources in the library, doing free online scholarship searches or contacting the financial aid office of the college you plan to attend. GoHigherKY.org, the state’s one-stop college planning Web site, also offers a free scholarship search.

If you decide to use a company to help you find financial aid, make sure you’re dealing with a reputable one. The Federal Trade Commission cautions students to be especially skeptical about scholarship search companies and Web sites that make these claims.

· “You’ve been selected by a national foundation to receive a scholarship.” Check with a guidance counselor or The Foundation Center at www.fdncenter.org to find out if the foundation is legitimate. Be especially wary if you receive notification that you’re a finalist in a scholarship contest you didn’t enter.

· “We’ll do all the work.” It’s highly unlikely that the company will fill out all the applications for all the financial aid sources it sends you.

· “I just need your credit card or bank account number to hold this scholarship.” Never give these numbers to a person or company with which you are unfamiliar. You could find your credit card maxed out and your bank account cleaned out.

· “This scholarship will cost some money.” Some legitimate scholarships do have upfront fees, but no more than $5 or $10.

· “You’re guaranteed to get money for college or your money back.” Read the fine print. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

To learn how to plan and prepare for higher education, visit www.GoHigherKY.org. For more information about Kentucky scholarships and grants, visit www.kheaa.com; write KHEAA, P.O. Box 798, Frankfort, KY 40602-0798; or call (800) 928-8926, extension 7381.

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MRSA Staph risks for kids

2008-07-14T01:20:00.000-04:00

MRSA: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Child

Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been making headlines throughout the country. MRSA is a drug-resistant strain of staph infection.
Staph is a common bacteria that lives on our bodies. Staph bacteria are harmless unless they enter the body, usually through a cut or other wound. Staph infections including MRSA are treatable and in healthy adults generally cause only minor skin infections. However in older adults and people who are ill or have weakened immune systems, staph infections can cause serious illness. If left untreated, MRSA can cause serious, even life-threatening infections throughout the body. MRSA is called a superbug because it is a highly drug-resistant strain of staph infection. This strain is resistant to the majority of the antibiotics commonly used to treat staph infections.

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Associated primarily with hospitals and healthcare facilities, MRSA and other staph infection strains are now appearing more frequently in communities. “An important thing to remember is that MRSA is treatable and there are ways to help prevent infection,” said Dr. Kyle Childers, Lexington Clinic Pediatrician.

The best ways for parents to protect their children and themselves from MRSA infection is to take the proper precautions, including:

Wash your hands- Scrub hands briskly for at least 15 seconds, then dry them with a disposable towel and use another disposable towel to turn of the faucet.

Keep personal items personal- Avoid sharing items such as towels, sheets, razors, and athletic equipment.

Keep Wounds Covered- Cuts and abrasions should be kept clean and covered with dry, sterile bandages until they heal.

Use antibiotics properly- Finish all medication, even if the infection seems to get better. Improper use of medication contributes to resistance.

If you suspect an MRSA infection, contact your doctor. If you or your child test positive for staph infection, ask that the culture be further tested for MRSA. “Good hygiene is still your child’s best defense. Good hand washing habits as well as proper wound treatment and antibiotic use will greatly reduce your child’s likelihood of contracting MRSA.” continued Childers.

For more information, please contact the Pediatrics Department at Lexington Clinic at 859.258.4000.

Lexington Clinic is a private, primary and specialty-care group practice with over 150 providers in 32 specialties working in locations throughout Central Kentucky. Lexington Clinic was founded in 1920 and operates offices in Corbin, Georgetown, London, Nicholasville and Richmond, as well as Lexington, KY.

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Lexington KY Free Diabetes Support Groups

2008-07-12T02:45:00.003-04:00

Support Groups offer insight and companionship

The Lexington Fayette County Health Department offers free "Living Well with Diabetes" support groups on a regular basis.

The Second Monday of each month, a group meets at the Senior Center located at 1530 Nicholasville Rd. The next meeting will be Monday, July 14 from 11 am to 12 noon.

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The Fourth Thursday of each month, an English/Spanish bilingual group meets at the Bluegrass Community Health Center at 1306 Versailles Road. The meeting begins at 6 PM and ends at 7:30 PM.

Drop-ins are welcome.

More information about Lexington KY Health Department

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Louisville Gas Prices being Scrutinized

2008-07-11T02:30:00.002-04:00

Attorney General Jack Conway announced that his Office of Consumer Protection is launching an investigation into abnormally high gas prices in Louisville.

“When market participants and experts are telling us this is unusual; when Louisville consumers are paying some of the highest prices for gasoline in the region, I feel it is imperative to find out if those prices are simply a function of the market or if something unlawful is taking place to manipulate prices,” General Conway said.

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Gas prices in Louisville are currently averaging almost $4.30 per gallon, almost

30 cents more per gallon than other parts of the state.

Louisville retailers are required to fill their stations with reformulated gas (RFG) during the summer months because of an agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to meet federal air-quality standards. Northern Kentucky retailers must also stock their stations with RFG as part of a similar agreement, but retail prices in that part of the state are about 18 cents per gallon less than Louisville. Regionally, St. Louis must also use RFG and retail prices there are averaging $3.80 to $3.90 per gallon.

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According to industry experts, RFG is more expensive to produce, but only 5 to 8 cents per gallon more than conventional gasoline. Retailers in Louisville report that they are paying wholesalers 20 to 25 cents more per gallon for RFG when compared to conventional gas.

“Our investigators have been told by various market participants and government officials that these gas prices are abnormally high relative to other markets, so I feel it is in the public interest to determine if a violation of the Consumer Protection Act has occurred, why prices are higher in Louisville and whether any laws have been violated,” General Conway said.

The Attorney General’s Office is currently compiling and reviewing data from industry sources, commercial agencies and the Kentucky Division of Air Quality. Investigators will be looking for trends that may indicate whether any violations of the Consumer Protection Act or state anti-trust laws may have been committed.

Under the Consumer Protection Act (KRS 367.240-250), if the Attorney General believes that the law has been or may be violated, or that it is in the public interest to determine whether a violation has or may occur, he may issue subpoenas and/or civil investigative demands to wholesalers operating in Louisville.

“The Consumer Protection Act prohibits ‘unfair, false, misleading or deceptive acts or practices’, and I will be determining whether any such acts occurred,” General Conway said.

The Consumer Protection Act and anti-trust statutes provide for injunctive relief, as well as restitution and civil penalties.

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Filed for Kentucky Unemployment Insurance?

2008-07-10T02:18:00.002-04:00

More than 36,000 Kentuckians may qualify for 13-week unemployment insurance extension

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentuckians who have filed their unemployment insurance claim on or after May 7, 2006 and have exhausted those benefits and are currently unemployed may be eligible for up to 13 weeks of extended benefits, according to the Kentucky Office of Employment and Training, an agency in the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet.

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More than 36,000 Kentuckians may be eligible for the additional unemployment benefits, said Division of Unemployment Insurance Director Tony DeName. Individuals who are potentially eligible for the federally funded extended benefits program will be notified by mail.

The weekly benefit amount for extended benefits will be the same as the person received for regular unemployment compensation during the original 26-week period. The maximum amount of benefits is $415 a week and depends on the person’s prior earnings. Potential candidates may apply until March 22, 2009.

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“Governor Beshear signed the agreement with the U.S. Department of Labor on July 1, 2008. Kentucky was one of the first states in the nation to return the agreement to Washington. The program is effective with the week beginning July 6, 2008. You may file your claim for benefits on line at www.kewes.ky.gov beginning Wednesday July 9, 2008, or you may use the call center 859-547-3362 to file. However, this is not at toll-free call,” said DeName.

OET helps individuals prepare for, secure, and maintain employment; assists employers in locating and selecting the best qualified workers for their job openings; and provides income maintenance to ease the financial burden on individuals who are out of work through no fault of their own.

The Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet coordinates learning programs from P-16, and manages and supports training and employment functions in the Department for Workforce Investment. For more information about our programs, visit www.educationcabinet.ky.gov or www.workforce.ky.gov,
or call 502-564-6606.

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New Median Cables in Louisville KY area

2008-07-09T03:55:00.000-04:00

GOVERNOR BESHEAR ANNOUNCES PLANS TO ADD MEDIAN CABLE BARRIERS IN FIVE COUNTIES

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Gov. Steve Beshear, taking action to save lives on Kentucky roads, today announced plans to add 44.2 miles of median cable barriers on sections of two heavily traveled divided highways.

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“Protection of human health and safety is a fundamental responsibility of government,” the Governor said. “We are committed to making our highways safer, and I am convinced that this action I’m announcing today will result in lives saved and many serious injuries prevented.

“This is a first step in identifying problem ‘crossover’ crash areas on our interstate system. As additional money becomes available, we will continue to address priority areas,” the Governor said during news conferences in Louisville and Munfordville.

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Under the Governor’s plan, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will carry out the $10.8 million project in five sections.

One is KY 841 in Jefferson County, a 10.2-mile stretch of the Gene Snyder Freeway. It is the only part of the Snyder now lacking cable barriers in a median.

Four sections – totaling 33.9 miles – are along Interstate 65 in Bullitt, Hardin, Hart and Barren counties.

Median cables are a form of guardrail, designed to prevent crossover collisions on divided highways. Kentucky first installed median cables in September 2006 and now has 52.1 miles of median cables on sections of I-64 and I-265 in Jefferson County, I-71 in Jefferson and Oldham counties, and New Circle Road in Fayette County.

The cable barriers in Jefferson County have been struck 326 times by vehicles, preventing an estimated 269 potential crossovers. In Fayette County, barriers have been struck 59 times, with 30 potential crossovers prevented.

Sites for additional cable barriers were selected following an analysis of highway crash data ordered by Transportation Secretary Joe Prather.

“For some months, we have been committed to increased use of median cable barriers but wanted to ensure they were being placed where they could do the most good,” Prather said.

Future cable barrier projects:

Hardin, I-65, 7.8 miles, from mile point 80.5 to 88.3 (Sonora, Glendale area)

Hardin, I-65, 9.4 miles, from mile point 91.1 to 100.5 (Includes Muldraugh Hill)

Jefferson, KY 841, 10.2 miles, from mile point 0 to 10.2 (Gene Snyder Freeway from I-65 to Dixie Highway)

Hart and Barren, I-65, 10.5 miles, from mile point 52.4 to 62.9 (Horse Cave area)

Bullitt, I-65, 6.2 miles, from mile point 109.4 to 115.6 (From KY 480 to Jefferson County line)

Current locations of cable barriers:

Jefferson, I-64, 2.9 miles, from mile point 8.7 to 11.6

Jefferson and Oldham, I-71, 11.6 miles, from mile point .02 to 11.6

Jefferson, I-265, 25.1 miles, from mile point 10.2 to 35.3 (Gene Snyder)

Jefferson, I-64, 1.5 miles, from mile point 6.3 to 7.8

Fayette, KY-4, 11.1 miles from 6.7 to 14.9 (New Circle Road)

(Editors note: Because of New Circle Road’s configuration, with Nicholasville Road being at mile point 0.0, mile points do not correspond to 11.1 miles.)

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Kentucky Fourth of July Vehicle Fatalities

2008-07-08T01:56:00.001-04:00

Six Die on Kentucky Roadways During Four-Day July 4th Holiday Period

(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that six people died in six separate crashes on Kentucky roadways during the four-day July 4th Holiday period, Thursday July 3 (6:00 p.m.) through Sunday, July 6, 2008 (11:59 p.m.).

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Three of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and one of those victims was not wearing a seat belt. Motor vehicle crashes occurred in Graves, Harlan and Union counties. One of the crashes involved the suspected use of alcohol.

Two ATV fatalities occurred and both involved the suspected use of alcohol. The crashes occurred in Hopkins and Pike counties. Neither victim was wearing a helmet. One motorcycle fatality occurred in Jefferson county.

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Through July 6, preliminary statistics* indicate that 379 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 56 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 296 motor vehicle fatalities, 186 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 38 motorcycle fatalities, 21 were not wearing helmets. Thirteen people have been killed in ATV crashes and twelve of those victims were not wearing helmets. Thirty-one pedestrians have been killed. A total of 74 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.

*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas

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Kentucky Teen Drivers Keeping Young Drivers Safe

2008-07-08T00:38:00.001-04:00

Kentucky Teenagers & Safe Cars

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If your teenager has just gotten a driver's license, it may be hard to imagine handing over the keys to your brand new car, but that may be the smartest vehicle to choose.

The first years teenagers spend as drivers are very risky. In fact, teen drivers have the highest death rates of any age group. In 1997 alone, more than 5,700 teenagers died in motor vehicle crashes, and many more were left severely and permanently injured by crashes.

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While getting a driver's license is an exciting rite-of-passage for teens, it can be enough to make a parent frantic. However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) say there is something worried parents can do to protect their teens—choose a safe vehicle.

Avoid vehicles that encourage reckless driving. Teen drivers not only lack experience, but may also lack maturity. As a result, speeding and reckless driving are common.

Sports cars and other vehicles with high performance features, such as turbocharging, are likely to encourage speeding. Choosing a vehicle with a more sedate image will reduce the chances your teen will be in a speed-related crash.

Don't let your teen drive an unstable vehicle. Sport utility vehicles, especially the smaller ones, are inherently less stable than cars because of their higher centers of gravity. Abrupt steering maneuvers—the kind that can occur when teens are fooling around or over-correcting a driver error—can cause rollovers where a more stable car would, at worst, skid or spin out.

Pick a vehicle that offers good crash protection. Teenagers should drive vehicles that offer state-of-the-art protection in case they do crash.

Don't let your teen drive a small vehicle.Small vehicles offer much less protection in crashes than larger ones. However, this doesn't mean you should put your child in the largest vehicle you can find. Many mid- and full-size cars offer more than adequate crash protection. Check out the safety ratings for mid-size and larger cars.

Avoid older vehicles. Most of today's cars are better designed for crash protection than cars of six to ten years ago. For example, a newer, mid-size car with airbags would be a better choice than an older, larger car without airbags. Before you make a final choice on the car your teenager will drive, consult the U.S. Department of Transportation ( http://www.dot.gov ) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety ( http://www.iihs.org ).

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Understanding your Auto Insurance Policy

2008-07-07T00:56:00.000-04:00

What is covered by a basic auto policy?

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Your auto policy may include six coverages. Each coverage is priced separately.

1. Bodily Injury Liability

This coverage applies to injuries that you, the designated driver or policyholder, cause to someone else. You and family members listed on the policy are also covered when driving someone else’s car with their permission.

It’s very important to have enough liability insurance, because if you are involved in a serious accident, you may be sued for a large sum of money. Definitely consider buying more than the state-required minimum to protect assets such as your home and savings.

2. Medical Payments or Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

This coverage pays for the treatment of injuries to the driver and passengers of the policyholder's car. At its broadest, PIP can cover medical payments, lost wages and the cost of replacing services normally performed by someone injured in an auto accident. It may also cover funeral costs.

3. Property Damage Liability

This coverage pays for damage you (or someone driving the car with your permission) may cause to someone else's property. Usually, this means damage to someone else’s car, but it also includes damage to lamp posts, telephone poles, fences, buildings or other structures your car hit.

4. Collision

This coverage pays for damage to your car resulting from a collision with another car, object or as a result of flipping over. It also covers damage caused by potholes. Collision coverage is generally sold with a deductible of $250 to $1,000—the higher your deductible, the lower your premium. Even if you are at fault for the accident, your collision coverage will reimburse you for the costs of repairing your car, minus the deductible. If you're not at fault, your insurance company may try to recover the amount they paid you from the other driver’s insurance company. If they are successful, you'll also be reimbursed for the deductible.

5. Comprehensive

This coverage reimburses you for loss due to theft or damage caused by something other than a collision with another car or object, such as fire, falling objects, missiles, explosion, earthquake, windstorm, hail, flood, vandalism, riot, or contact with animals such as birds or deer.

Comprehensive insurance is usually sold with a $100 to $300 deductible, though you may want to opt for a higher deductible as a way of lowering your premium.

Comprehensive insurance will also reimburse you if your windshield is cracked or shattered. Some companies offer glass coverage with or without a deductible.

States do not require that you purchase collision or comprehensive coverage, but if you have a car loan, your lender may insist you carry it until your loan is paid off.

6. Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

This coverage will reimburse you, a member of your family, or a designated driver if one of you is hit by an uninsured or hit-and-run driver.

Underinsured motorist coverage comes into play when an at-fault driver has insufficient insurance to pay for your total loss. This coverage will also protect you if you are hit as a pedestrian.

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Lexington KY Volunteers Needed Classic Kentucky Car Enthusiasts

2008-07-06T01:56:00.000-04:00

Volunteers Needed for Keeneland Concours

Media Contact: Mary Margaret Colliver, (859) 361-1887

Learn more about Keeneland Concours d'Elegance

LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 13, 2008) − Volunteers are needed for Kentucky Children's Hospital on Saturday, July 19 during the Keeneland Concours d'Elegance. The event features the finest classic automobiles at Keeneland race course in Lexington. Kentucky Children's Hospital benefits from this annual event.

There are a variety of volunteer jobs available from helping with parking to selling event programs.

"Our Kentucky Children's Hospital appreciates any time you are willing to lend to this event," said Loralyn Cecil, manager of community relations and publications, Office of Development, Kentucky Children's Hospital.

For more information and if you are interested in volunteering, contact Pam Treas by e-mail or call (859) 229-5271. Or you can register on the Keeneland Concours d'Elegance Web site.

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Louisville KY Free Weight Control Classes start July 8

2008-07-05T03:42:00.001-04:00

Public Health and Wellness Department to Offer Weight Control Series

LOUISVILLE, KY (June 25, 2008) – Individuals interested in learning successful weight loss strategies, how to do smart grocery shopping, how to cook healthier foods, and how to overcome the common pitfalls of losing weight can take advantage of a free series of classes being offered by the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness.

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The classes will be held on consecutive Tuesdays on July 8, July 15, July 22, and July 29 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Family Health Center Portland, 2215 Portland Ave., room 424

“This series of free classes can be very helpful to people who want to improve their health and lose weight,” said Margaret Heyn, a registered dietitian with the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness. “These weight control strategies have been proven to be successful.”

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The class is conducted by a registered dietitian, free of charge. Participants will receive body fat analysis as well as an individually calculated meal plan. Participants should register in advance by calling 574-6663.

The mission of the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness is to protect, preserve and promote the health, environment and well-being of the people of Louisville.

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Louisville KY Diabetes Classes Begin July 8

2008-07-05T02:58:00.002-04:00

Public Health and Wellness Department Offers Diabetes Classes

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – (June 24, 2008) Individuals interested in learning about and managing diabetes are invited to attend a series of four free classes being offered by the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness. Classes begin Tuesday, July 8 at the Highlands – Shelby Park Branch of the Louisville Free Public Library, located in the Mid-City Mall at 1250 Bardstown Road.

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Classes are free and attendance at the entire series of four classes is encouraged. All classes begin at 1:00 p.m. and end at 3:30 p.m. Phone 574-6663 for reservations or for more information. Class size is limited so please call to make a reservation. The class schedule is as follows:

The Department of Public Health and Wellness also has a free support group for people with diabetes and their families or caretakers. The group meets the 2nd Thursday of each month from 9:30 – 11:00 AM at the Park DuValle Community Health Center at 3015 Wilson Avenue. July’s topic will be “Using Fruits as Desserts.” Phone 574-6663 for more information.

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The mission of the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness is to protect, preserve and promote the health, environment and well-being of the people of Louisville

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Fourth of July Reflections

2008-07-04T03:27:00.003-04:00

By the time you are reading this, I'll be up on the hill refinishing yet another piece of furniture for our home. Maybe it will be the old chair from my dad's Mason Lodge, or a table that Great Grandpa made from a tree that stood at the old home place. I like refinishing furniture, and giving it new life. And in a way, that's what the Fourth of July is all about...new life.

In 1776, some long haired, wig wearing patriots got it in their tri-cornered hats to declare our independence from an oppressive British government. Britain, at that time was a super power. America, had a few metropolitan areas, but was largely frontier. The odds were not in those wigged-out guys favor!

Yet, over two hundred years later, here we are an independent nation. We pay too much for gas, but we can go where ever we want, whenever we want. We still have freedom of speech, and can say what we want. We can pray when we want, and have the right to assembly. Many, many, many folks have fought and died to take care of our wants. They gave, and continue to give, us freedom.

Tonight, when the sky lights up with the wonderment of dazzling fireworks, and you are enjoying fresh ears of corn and the bounty of the earth, take a minute to remember...our freedom is a blessing that does not come cheap.

The Staff at Charlie Pinson Insurance KY wishes each of you a Happy and Safe Fourth of July. Happy Independence Day!

Charlie Pinson Insurance KY is off for a long weekend. Our Kentucky Insurance office will reopen on Monday, July 7. For claims numbers, or online quotes visit our website at www.pinsoninsurance.com

Food Safety for Fourth of July

2008-07-03T03:28:00.001-04:00

Don’t Let Foodborne Illness Spoil Your Independence Day

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Frankfort, KY (June 27, 2008) – The Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) wants all Kentuckians to observe a happy and safe Independence Day by following a few simple food preparation and food handling guidelines during outdoor cookouts, picnics and barbecues.

“The key to food protection is simple: Keep hot food hot, and keep cold food cold,” said Christine Atkinson, manager of the food safety branch in the Department for Public Health (DPH). “Pregnant women, infants and the elderly need to be especially mindful of food safety because they are more vulnerable to foodborne illness. However, anyone can get sick from contaminated food. We’re offering these simple guidelines for proper food preparation and storage to help our residents avoid that.” According to DPH, food left out in the sun or in hot cars too long can become a breeding ground for bacteria and may cause foodborne illness when consumed. This is particularly important to remember for holiday parties, when there is an increased likelihood for exposing multiple people to foodborne illness.

DPH investigates foodborne illness outbreaks, like the current nationwide outbreak of Salmonella Saintpaul linked to raw tomatoes. In 2006, DPH investigated three separate outbreaks of salmonella; there were two outbreaks of E. coli and two outbreaks of norovirus (both foodborne) in 2007; and in 2008, there have been three foodborne illness outbreaks.

To avoid exposure to bacteria and prevent foodborne illness, DPH recommends following these guidelines:

Wash hands before eating or preparing food, after using the restroom, between handling raw and ready-to-eat items and after handling pets. Wash with hot soapy water and dry with paper towels.

To sanitize surfaces, use a solution of regular household bleach and warm water. Add about 1 tablespoon of bleach to 2 gallons of water for the right concentration. Sanitize by first washing and rinsing the surface and then immerse, spray or swab with the bleach solution.

Separate raw foods from ready-to-eat foods. Use different cutting boards or wash, rinse and sanitize after contact with raw meat, poultry and seafood. Never use the same plate to transport the cooked hamburgers that was used for the raw hamburger patties.

Handle all cut melons carefully, including cantaloupe and watermelon. Thoroughly clean the outer surface before slicing, and keep work surface and utensils used to prepare the melon clean and sanitized. Refrigerate sliced melon promptly at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.

Be sure to wash all produce thoroughly before use.

Cook food to the proper internal temperature:

Always check the internal temperature of cooked foods with a metal-stemmed thermometer and cook another 15 seconds after the thermometer indicates it has reached the proper temperature.

Within two hours, cool and maintain leftovers at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, or freeze at zero degrees or lower.

“When in doubt, throw it out,” said William Hacker, M.D., DPH commissioner. “It’s better to be safe than sorry.”

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Triple B Insurance provides Kentucky Health Insurance throughout the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The Kentucky Health Insurance Agency does business with Anthem, Humana, Bluegrass Family Health and others. Individual, family, group health insurance, and employee benefits are available.

Home Fireworks are Risky

2008-07-02T02:47:00.002-04:00

Kentucky Advisory for Safe Fourth of July

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FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 27, 2008) Many Kentuckians enjoy the tradition of viewing fireworks as they celebrate the Independence Day holiday. To help ensure that your holiday celebration is safe, attend a community fireworks show, advises Kentucky State Fire Marshal William Swope Jr.

“Professional fireworks shows are staged by experienced companies that take all the safety precautions,” Swope said. “Plus, a pyrotechnics show is a much more exciting experience than setting off fireworks at home.”

Home fireworks carry substantial risks for little reward, Swope said. In Kentucky, only Class 1.4G (consumer) fireworks are allowed by law. This excludes firecrackers, roman candles, and any other device that explodes or shoots in the air.

Every year throughout the United States, thousands of people end up in hospital emergency rooms with injuries from fireworks. In 2007, hospitals treated nearly 10,000 such injuries. Moreover, 90 percent of the injuries were caused by legal fireworks, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Beyond the injury factor, home fireworks cause many fires. Independence Day sees more fires in the United States than any other day of the year, with most fires caused by fireworks, the NFPA reports. In 2005, fireworks caused an estimated 1,800 structure fires and 700 vehicle fires.

For those who choose to use home fireworks, here are some tips:

Always read and observe label directions.

Remember to keep water handy.

Always have an adult present.

Never re-light a “dud” firework.

Don’t give fireworks, including sparklers, to small children.

Stay away from dry vegetation.

Swope’s remarks came during a news conference promoting summer safety. The Cabinet for Health and Family Services has established a Web page offering safety tips on a variety of summer activities. The Web address is http://chfs.ky.gov/summersafety08.

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Our Kentucky Insurance agency, Charlie Pinson Insurance KY, will be off celebrating the Fourth. We will return to the office on Monday. If you need to report a claim Kentucky Insurance Claims Contacts

Wildfires possible Fourth of July Campfire Safety

2008-07-02T02:13:00.002-04:00

The Kentucky Division of Forestry (KDF) reminds Kentucky landowners and homeowners that wildfires can strike any time where grass and brush are dry enough to burn. Although the frequency of wildfires lessens after Spring green-up, there is still potential for wildfire conditions.

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“This is the greenest time of year with the lowest fire danger; however, we are still having forest fires. We are encouraging everyone to be extra careful this summer,” said Bernie Andersen, KDF Fire Management Chief. Many summertime activities can cause accidental wildfires; however, there are precautions that can reduce the risks of spreading these fires.

With July 4th celebrations coming up, it is important to remember that mishaps from fireworks can potentially spread wildfires that threaten homes, property, wildlife habitat and forests. A good alternative to personal fireworks are the community displays sponsored by cities and towns across the state.

Campfires are another potential source of wildfire. A campfire should be less than four feet in diameter, with at least a 10-foot clearance around it. Always keep water and a shovel handy and use both of them to put out fires. Campfires should never be left unattended, and they should be completely extinguished before leaving the area. Campers should also be cautious when driving in backcountry areas. Faulty mufflers and catalytic converters can leave sparks and fires behind a vehicle; therefore, it is important to limit driving to approved roads and areas.

Unsafe burning of brush piles and other debris may also lead to escaped fires. Safety precautions should be taken and weather conditions considered before conducting any outdoor burning. It is illegal to burn garbage or other materials, except natural plant matter, such as yard waste and brush. County solid waste programs have information on debris collection or drop-off sites. Check with your local fire department, the Kentucky Division of Forestry, the Kentucky Division for Air Quality and the Kentucky Division of Waste Management to make sure you comply with local and other state outdoor-burning regulations.

The best way to protect property is to prevent wildfires from getting started in the first place. Homeowners who live in or near forested areas should prune and remove flammable plant and debris. Reducing the amount of fuel from shrubs, dead plant material and firewood will help create a defensible space around your home. Fire-resistant materials such as Class-A shingles, tile, or metal adds further protection. Homeowners should also make sure that house numbers and road names are clearly marked for emergency vehicles.

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The staff of Charlie Pinson Insurance KY urges all Kentuckians to have a safe Fourth of July.

Fireworks Safety for Kids Prevent Injuries Celebrate

2008-07-01T03:56:00.009-04:00

Fireworks Injure Thousands of Kids Each Year

Media Contact: Mary Margaret Colliver, (859) 361-1887

LEXINGTON, Ky. (June 23, 2008) - In 2006, more than 2,000 children ages 14 and under were treated in U.S. emergency rooms for injuries involving fireworks during the fireworks season, which runs from the middle of June until the middle of July. Children ages 10 to 14 have the highest rate of injury from fireworks.

“Don’t let kids play with fireworks, period,” said Sherri Hannan, Safe Kids Fayette County coordinator. “They’re intended for use by adults in open spaces, with plenty of active supervision for every child present.”

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Fireworks, including sparklers and flares, can cause serious burns as well as blast injuries that can permanently impair vision and hearing. “Teach your children what to do if their clothing catches on fire — ‘stop, drop and roll’ — and how to call 911 in an emergency,” said Hannan.

Many pyrotechnic devices are illegal in Fayette County as well as other areas of Kentucky. Where permitted by law, fireworks should be handled and used in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and all warning labels. In addition, Safe Kids Fayette County recommends these precautions for adults using fireworks:
Light fireworks only on smooth, flat surfaces, and aim them away from buildings, dry leaves, flammable materials and spectators.

Do not try to relight fireworks that malfunction.

Do not carry fireworks in your pocket or hold them close to your face.

Visit www.recalls.gov to make sure the pyrotechnic devices you are using are not subject to any safety recalls.

Do not modify fireworks or use homemade fireworks.Keep a phone handy, and know first aid for burns.

Also, keep a fire
extinguisher handy and know how to use it.

Finally, as in any activity involving hazardous equipment, keep all children under active supervision — in sight and in reach at all times, with your undivided attention focused on them — when they’re near fireworks.

“The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to watch them at a community event where professionals handle them,” said Hannan.

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Safe Kids Fayette County works to prevent accidental childhood injury, the leading killer of children 14 and under. Its members include health professionals and representatives from police, fire, schools and the community. Safe Kids Fayette County is a member of Safe Kids Worldwide, a global network of organizations dedicated to preventing accidental injury. Safe Kids Fayette County was founded in 1993 and is led by UK HealthCare's Kentucky Children's Hospital.

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Specializing in Kentucky Health Insurance Triple B Insurance KY, and it's sister agency C & B Insurance, offers family health insurance, individual health insurance and group health insurance products as well as employee benefits throughout Kentucky.

Fourth of July in Kentucky State Parks

2008-07-01T02:31:00.001-04:00

July 4th Will Be Poppin' at Kentucky State Parks

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Kentucky State Parks throughout the commonwealth will celebrate the July 4th holiday with fireworks, summer fun activities and special events. Following is a brief run-down of announced festivities with phone numbers for each park. Information is also available at www.parks.ky.gov.

Barren River State Resort Park
7/4/2008
Our annual 4th of July Fireworks Celebration starts off the day with a beach party and plenty of fun and games. There will be live entertainment at 6 p.m. followed by the fireworks display at 9 p.m. Activities continue throughout the weekend with the annual "whatever floats your boat" contest on Saturday. Other activities such as the pre-4th block party on the 3rd include karaoke and the non-motorized parade.
270-646-2151

Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park
7/3/2008 to 7/5/2008
Battlefield Walks – July 3 & 5. Learn more about the fascinating history of Blue Licks Battlefield with a walk that begins promptly at 1 pm and is free to all park visitors. Canoe Trips – July 3 & 5. Enjoy a 2 ½ hour leisurely paced canoe trip down the Licking River. Cost is $10 per person and space is limited. All you can eat seafood buffet at Hidden Waters Restaurant July 4. Crab legs, shrimp, and more. Bring the entire family for a treat that they’ll enjoy. Cost is $19.95 plus tax plus beverage.
859-289-5507

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park

7/4/2008
Show your patriotic spirit with a variety of activities. Crafts, watermelon, float races, music. Ends with a fantastic fireworks display that evening over Buckhorn Lake. Event time: 10 am to 11 pm.
606-398-7510

Dale Hollow State Resort Park

7/4/2008 to 7/6/2008
Show off your red, white, and blue as you celebrate the Fourth of July with some all American activities. Enjoy a weekend filled with games, crafts, and special entertainment.
270-433-7431

Fort Boonesborough State Park
7/2/2008 to 7/6/2008
Come celebrate our nation's birthday with five days of patriotic activities. We will have scheduled times for camper decoration contests, games, crafts, free putt-putt, free historic tours, a hayride, a parade, NASCAR on the big screen satellite TV, live entertainment and our biggest fireworks show ever. This is our second annual fireworks show on the beach. The festivities start with a DJ and concessions from 6:15 pm until 9:15 pm. The fireworks show starts at 9:45 pm. The show is free, however the Fort Boonesborough Foundation will be collecting a $3 per vehicle parking fee. 859-527-3131

General Burnside State Resort Park
7/4/2008 to 7/5/2008
We will be letting the kids decorate their bikes and join in on the July 4th Parade. But you don't need a bike -- we can decorate you up to walk in the parade! There will be activities, games and prizes for all ages. On the 5th of July there will be a Checker Tournament for ages 8 and up and a watermelon seed-spitting contest. Events start July 4 at 5 p.m. and July 5 at 10 a.m.
606-561-4104

General Butler State Resort Park
7/05/2008
Kentucky Kruizers Car Club Show will feature custom and vintage cars, 50's and 60's music, along with food and merchandise booths. Following the car show, General Butler will celebrate with outdoor musical entertainment & a fireworks show over Butler Lake around 9:30 p.m. There is a registration fee if entering vehicles for judging; other than that events are free.
502-732-4384

Greenbo Lake State Resort Park
7/4/2008
Enjoy a day of family fun, hiking/biking/horseback riding, mini golf, fishing, tennis, boating, and newly renovated campground. Greenbo Lake Amphitheatre will present Bluegrass music by New Time, 6:30-9:45 pm. Fireworks will be shot at 10:00 pm at Beach Area at Community Pool Parking Lot. Event is free to the public. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for an evening of family fun. Details on other events planned for the holiday week can be obtained by calling the park.
606-473-7324

Jenny Wiley State Resort Park Prestonsburg KY
7/4/2008 to 7/5/2008
Arts and crafts activities will allow you to show your “Independence Day” spirit, with Tie-Dye t-shirts, key chains, eagle puppets, and more. There will be Watermelon Eating and Ice Cream Eating contests. On Saturday July 5 join us in the Campground for a spectacular musical event as the “One Man Band” Tim Michaels performs songs of Bluegrass, Country, and Rock & Roll.
606-889-1790

Kenlake State Resort Park
7/4/2008
One of the biggest fireworks shows in Western Ky. Fireworks display is complemented by live entertainment and a cookout. Recreation activities all day.
270-474-2211

Kentucky Dam Village
6/30/2008 to 7/6/2008
Good Ole USA Days is a week long celebration of our nation's birthday with traditional activities, nightly entertainment, music, and food. Top off the holiday week with a 4th of July fireworks show on Friday night.
270-362-4276

Lake Barkley State Resort Park
7/4/2008 to 7/6/2008
The 4th of July Weekend at the Beach tradition continues along Barkley's waters…the largest fireworks display in the area, a talented regional line-up of live music, beach games for the whole family, snacks and food vending, and a cool swim in the lake. And that's just to kick off the weekend! Lake Barkley is the place to be for Independence Day!
270-924-1131

Old Fort Harrod State Park
7/4/2008 to 7/5/2008
Picnic in the park will be from noon to 1:00 p.m. presenting puppet ministry by Heavenly Hands. Bring your picnic lunch and enjoy the live entertainment under the scenic and historic Osage orange tree. On July 5, the Patriot Quartet, a local Southern Gospel group, will perform for the James Harrod Entertainment Sampler beginning at 7:00 p.m. The concert will feature patriotic songs and favorite traditional songs as made popular by The Statesmen, The Blackwood Brothers and the original Oak Ridge Boys quartets. There are also original songs penned by group members and others. Admission is $5.00 per person and children under six will be admitted free.
859-734-3314

Paintsville Lake State Park Paintsville KY
7/4/2008
Most Patriotic Campsite -- Show us your patriotism! Celebrate the 4th of July with Paintsville Lake and deck your campsite out with red, white, and blue. Compete with your fellow campers for a chance to win a couple of free nights of camping.
606-297-8486

Pine Mountain State Resort Park
7/5/2008
On Saturday July 5, the park will host a special New Orleans Dinner and Jazz Show featuring the impeccable talents of Julie Davis and Kelly Dow. Take a trip back in time and experience an unforgettable evening of top-notch Jazz. The Jazz Show will be hosted at the park’s Whitney Conference Center and fine dining featuring some New Orleans style cuisine will precede the entertainment. Tickets for this must-see show are currently on sale at Pine Mountain State Resort Park. The dinner and show costs only $25 per person.
606-337-3066.

Rough River Dam State Resort Park
7/5/2008
Rumble Over Rough River and celebrate the Fourth with fireworks over Rough River Lake! We will have a live band -- Burly Cruz -- performing before the fireworks show and concessions will also be available. Free Fourth of July related recreational activities will be going on all weekend long! Fireworks will begin at approximately 9:00 pm (CDT) and last up to 25 minutes!
270-257-2311

###

The Kentucky State Park System is composed of 53 state parks plus an interstate park shared with Virginia. The Department of Parks, an agency of the Commerce Cabinet, operates 17 resort parks with lodges -- more than any other state. Each year, Kentucky parks draw 7 million visitors and contribute $317 million to the economy. For more information on Kentucky parks, visit our Web site at http://www.parks.ky.gov.

Charlie Pinson Insurance Ky will be closed Friday, July 4th to celebrate our independence. As you travel during the holiday, we urge all Kentucky motorists to use caution and good driving habits. Buckle Up and be safe! Get Kentucky Insurance Quotes

Keeping your Cool while on the Road

2008-06-28T03:37:00.001-04:00

Gearing up for Fourth of July Traffic Challenges

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(NAPS)—With so many people on the road during peak vacation months, it may be a good time to brush up on what you should do in the event you’re involved in a crash.
Here are some tips from The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies and Charlie Pinson Insurance KY.

Preparedness starts before you leave the driveway

Put a disposable camera and pen and paper in your glove box. Kentucky car insurance claims can be settled faster if there’s a good record of what happened. If you can take photographs or collect license plate numbers, or even names and phone numbers of witnesses, these can all help your insurance company establish facts faster.

If you’re involved in a crash:

Move your vehicle out of the roadway, if you can. If your car is able to be driven, move it off of the road a safe distance. By getting off the road, you can help to avoid a second collision.

Turn on your flashers or your lights. You want to be certain your vehicle is visible to other drivers.

Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If someone is injured, call 911 immediately.

Call local police to report the crash.

Call your Kentucky insurance company to report the crash. Charlie Pinson Insurance KY lists claims numbers on their Kentucky Insurance agency website. Kentucky Insurance Claims contacts. The earlier your Kentucky insurance company knows about the crash, the faster it can get to work to resolve your claim.

Start documenting what happened, if you can. If you’re able to do so safely, take photographs, make notes, ask witnesses for names and phone numbers. If you’re not able to do so safely, stand as far from the roadway— and the crashed cars—as you possibly can.

Exchange only your Kentucky insurance company name. Don’t discuss the details of your coverage with anyone at the accident scene.

Exchange vital information with the other driver(s). Names, addresses, phone numbers are all useful to your Kentucky insurance company in settling the claim.

For other tips to keep you safe on the road and keep your insurance rates down visit Kentucky Progressive Insurance Agent, Kentucky Independent Insurance Agent Charlie Pinson.

Will gas prices influence Kentucky Auto Insurance Rates? The Consumer Federation of American Thinks so.

2008-06-27T03:13:00.001-04:00

$4 GALLON GAS SHOULD LOWER AUTO INSURANCE RATES
FOR MANY CONSUMERS

--Consumers Who Are Driving Less Should Contact Their Insurance Companies--

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Washington, D.C. – As the price of gasoline tops four dollars a gallon nationwide, the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) today released an analysis showing that consumers who are driving less could save an average of 5 to 15 percent on their automobile insurance rates –about $47 to $142.1 (Potential average savings by state are shown below.)

While skyrocketing fuel costs have created great hardship for many consumers, these increases could mean immediate savings on automobile insurance as drivers react to high gas prices by using mass transportation, car-pooling, taking fewer trips to the store or curtailing their vacations.“Auto insurance rates are partially based on how much you drive and how you use your car,” said J. Robert Hunter, Director of Insurance for CFA and former Texas Insurance Commissioner and Federal Insurance Administrator. “If you drive less to save money on gas, these driving changes might mean that you qualify for immediate insurance rate relief,” he said.

“We encourage all Americans to act now to save money by calling their insurance company or agent and asking if they qualify for an immediate rate reduction.”
CFA released the attached “Consumer Alert” that detailed several ways that Americans
who are driving less can save money on automobile insurance, including:
If You have Stopped Driving Your Car to Work or School:
• Your insurance classification has changed from “Drive to Work” to “Pleasure.”
• Savings could be 10 to 15 percent.
If You are Driving Only to a Train or Bus Station, Not All the Way to Work or School:
• Your insurance classification may change from the “Drive to work” mileage category.
• Savings could be 5 to 10 percent.
If You Have Consolidated Trips and are Driving Much Less:
• This reduces your miles driven per year.
• Savings could be 5 to 10 percent.
1 The average auto insurance premium in the U.S. was $949 in 2005, according to the latest data from the National
Association of Insurance Commissioners (see attached table showing state data). These are average savings. Based
on the specifics of a consumer’s auto insurance, the savings will range from zero to hundreds of dollars.
2

“While these savings will vary based upon the specific auto coverage you have, it is certainly worth a call,” said Hunter. “Simply explain the actions you are taking to drive less and estimate how many fewer miles you are driving a month,” he said. “Tell the agent or company representative that you want the cheapest rate they have for drivers reflecting your new driving circumstances.”

In a letter sent earlier this week, CFA has called on the nation’s Governors to act immediately to require insurance companies to lower their rates as Americans drive less. “As Americans drive less because of the price of gas, fewer claims will be filed with insurance companies,” said Hunter. “Whether this will mean windfall profits for insurers or rate cuts for the consumers is up to Governors and state regulators to determine,” he said. “We ask that each state immediately call hearings to determine the right auto insurance prices under the changed driving situation.”

Bloggers Note-As this is a Kentucky Insurance Blog I have edited this list to include only Kentucky, and a few surrounding states

STATE 2005 Combined Savings Savings Savings

Average Premium at 5% at 10% at 15%

Arkansas $852.62 $42.63 $85.26 $127.89

Illinois $830.69 $41.53 $83.07 $124.60

Indiana $758.47 $37.92 $75.85 $113.77

Kentucky $898.01 $44.90 $89.80 $134.70

Missouri $804.53 $40.23 $80.45 $120.68

North Carolina $730.75 $36.54 $73.08 $109.61

Ohio $754.86 $37.74 $75.49 $113.23

Tennessee $787.73 $39.39 $78.77 $118.16

Virginia $795.92 $39.80 $79.59 $119.39

West Virginia $1,028.05 $51.40 $102.81 $154.21

Nationwide $948.97 $47.45 $94.90 $142.35

Source: 2004/2005 Auto Insurance Database Report,
National Association of Insurance Commissioners, 2007.
-30-
Consumer Federation of America (CFA) is a non-profit association of 300 consumer groups,
with a combined membership of more than 50 million people. CFA was founded in 1968 to
advance the consumer’s interest through advocacy and education.

Preventing Dog Bites and Homeowners Claims

2008-06-26T09:29:00.006-04:00

Tips for Dog Bite Prevention

I love dogs. Little dogs, big dogs, old dogs, and puppy dogs....mutt dogs and pedigree dogs it just doesn't matter. My personal belief is a house is not a house without a cat roaming around....and a yard is not a yard without a dog romping through it.

A few weeks back, a stray dog showed up on our porch. He is what we call a "Heinz 57" breed, kind of a mix between a collie and a German Shepard. We tried to run him off, as we live near a highway...and dogs don't do so well on the pavement. However, this dog just would not leave. I couldn't stand seeing him hungry, so I guess he is mine.

He's putting on some weight, his coat is shinier, and he is in much better shape than he was a few weeks back. I've got a collar on him, and there will be the compulsory trip to the vet for shots and vaccines.

In the interim, I saw an article in one of the insurance trade journals that said fully one third of homeowners claims was for dog bites. This cannot be good. Remember the old joke?

Does your dog bite?

No.

Off camera, the dog bites.

I thought you said your dog didn't bite!

That's not MY dog!

Here is a PDF about preventing dog bites that you might find useful. It is a collaberative effort between the American Veternary Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. There is great information about kids and dogs, and addresses plans of action.

Dog Bite Prevention

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Joyce Pinson is a Kentucky Health Insurance agent representing many companies including Anthem, Humana and Bluegrass Family Health. For Kentucky health insurance quotes Click Compare Kentucky Health Insurance rates

Kids and Lawn Mower Safety June is National Safety Month

2008-06-25T16:59:00.005-04:00

More than Sun Block Required to Protect Kids While Mowing Lawns

National Medical Societies’ Safety Tips Prevent Lawn Mower Injuries

June is National Safety Month

Chicago – Protecting children during summer activities conjures up thoughts of bike helmets, knee pads, and sun block. However, during the summer months, mowing the lawn can be as routine for some children as riding a bike and can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. In fact, nearly 210,000 people – approximately 16,200 of them children under age 19 – were treated in doctors’ offices, clinics and emergency rooms for lawn mower-related injuries in 2007, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports.

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To help prevent injuries, the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery (ASRM), the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have teamed up to educate parents, adults and children about the importance of lawn mower safety during National Safety Month, June 2008.

“Parents need to understand that lawnmowers can cause terrible devastating injuries to children's hands, feet or faces, which can impact the rest of their lives,” said ASRM President Neil Jones, MD. “The tragedy is that most of these injuries are totally preventable by following some simple precautions.”

The ASRM, AAOS, ASPS and AAP offer the following tips to help prevent lawn mower-related injuries:

Children should be at least 12 years old before they operate any lawn mower, and at least 16 years old for a ride-on mower.

Children should never be passengers on ride-on mowers.

Always wear sturdy shoes while mowing – not sandals.

Young children should be at a safe distance from the area you are mowing.

Before mowing, pick up stones, toys and debris from the lawn to prevent injuries from flying objects.

Always wear eye and hearing protection.

Use a mower with a control that stops it from moving forward if the handle is released.

Never pull backward or mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary – carefully look for others behind you when you do.

Start and refuel mowers outdoors – not in a garage. Refuel with the motor turned off and cool.

Blade settings should be set by an adult only.

Wait for blades to stop completely before removing the grass catcher, unclogging the discharge chute, or crossing gravel roads.

“Serious orthopaedic trauma can be sustained while operating a lawn mower,” said AAOS President Tony Rankin, MD. “However, by following a few simple safety tips, devastating injuries may be prevented.”

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Many lawn mower-related injuries require a team of physicians from various specialties to properly repair them. Often, patients must endure painful reconstructive operations to restore form and function.

“Many children who sustain lawn mower injuries must undergo reconstructive surgery for months, sometimes years, after the initial accident,” said ASPS President Richard D’Amico, MD. “The look on parents’ faces can be truly heart wrenching. We are the physicians called to treat these devastating injuries, but would do anything to prevent them in the first place.”

“Parents want to protect their children from accidents and injuries. But every summer we see children and teens using lawnmowers in an unsafe manner,” said AAP President Renee Jenkins, MD. “It is our job as pediatricians to help get information to parents about how to prevent injuries that are common during summer months, and that includes injuries from lawnmowers.”

The American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery is a not-for-profit organization consisting primarily of orthopaedic and plastic surgeons that perform microsurgery and other complex reconstructions. With more than 500 members, the ASRM mission is to promote, encourage and advance the art and science of microsurgical and other complex reconstructions. The ASRM serves as a forum for teaching, research and free discussion of microsurgical methods and principles. For more information, please visit www.microsurg.org.

With more than 30,000 members, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (www.aaos.org) is the premier not-for-profit organization that provides education programs for orthopaedic surgeons and allied health professionals, champions the interests of patients and advances the highest quality musculoskeletal health. Orthopaedic surgeons and the Academy are the authoritative sources of information for patients and the general public on musculoskeletal conditions, treatments and related issues. An advocate for improved patient care, the Academy is participating in the Bone and Joint Decade (www.usbjd.org) – the global initiative in the years 2002-2011 – to raise awareness of musculoskeletal health, stimulate research and improve people’s quality of life.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons is the largest organization of board-certified plastic surgeons in the world. Representing more than 6,700 physician members, the Society is recognized as a leading authority and information source on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. ASPS comprises more than 90 percent of all board-certified plastic surgeons in the United States. Founded in 1931, the Society represents physicians certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. For more information, please visit www.plasticsurgery.org.

The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organization of 60,000 primary care pediatricians, pediatric medical subspecialists and pediatric surgical specialists dedicated to the health, safety and well being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults. (www.aap.org)

Michala Riggle Young People Making a Difference Louisville Korsiar Hospital

2008-06-24T02:18:00.001-04:00

Fifth-grader raises more than $200,000 for autism research

What started as a $7.35 fund has turned into a local and national phenomenon.

After seeing improvement in her brother Evan’s autism symptoms following glutathione treatments, Michala Riggle, 11, was inspired to raise money to begin an autism research study at Kosair Children’s Hospital in Louisville, Ky. Michala and her parents wanted to know if, like Evan, other children with autism could be helped with glutathione treatments.

By making and selling beaded bracelets and through private donations, Michala has raised more than $200,000 to allow physicians at Kosair Children’s Hospital and the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Louisville School of Medicine to begin an autism research study at Kosair Children’s Hospital.

In the past several months, Michala’s hard work and “You’ve Gotta Believe” motto have inspired a team of volunteers, affectionately called Michala’s “peeps,” to bead thousands of bracelets to sell at local art shows and other community events. A high school in Louisville stops classwork each week to bead for the “Beading to Beat Autism” effort, and Michala’s aunts have persuaded their co-workers to bead on their lunch breaks. Michala has enlisted the help of Beta clubs, church groups, family, friends and even strangers who have donated supplies to support the effort. Michala even persuaded her brother, Dawson, 8, to help make bracelets!

Michala’s new goal is to raise enough money to build an autism research and treatment center in Louisville to help autistic children like her brother Evan. Learn more about Michala’s story.

Donate or purchase Michala's beaded bracelets online or call (502) 629-KIDS.
(For $3 bracelets, please specify the quantity in the “For other donations” box on the donation form. Click “Purchase Michala's bracelets" now.)

Michala told her 8-year-old brother, Dawson , “You’ve gotta believe,” we can raise this money. To help, purchase a “Believe” pin.

Believe pins can also be purchased in the Louisville area at any Ginny’s Hallmark locations:

6233 Crestwood Station

Crestwood, KY 40014

291 N Hubbards Lane

Louisville, KY 40207

6801 Dixie Hwy

Louisville, KY 40258

5009 Mud Lane

Louisville, KY 40229

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KY Motorcyle Fatalities Reported

2008-06-23T11:35:00.005-04:00

Three Motorcyclists Die on Kentucky Roadways Last Week (June 9 - June 15)

(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that eighteen people died in sixteen separate crashes on Kentucky roadways from Monday, June 9 through Sunday, June 15, 2008. Twelve of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and seven of those victims were not wearing seat belts. Motor vehicle crashes occurred in Clark (2), Greenup, Harlan, Hopkins (4), Jefferson (2), Madison, Pulaski, and Shelby counties. Three of the crashes involved pedestrians and four involved the suspected use of alcohol.

A triple-fatality crash occurred June 9 in Hopkins county on KY 109. Meagan Gibbs was traveling south on KY 109 in a 2002 Ford F250 pickup truck. Penny Garrison was traveling north on KY 109 in a 1986 Ford Ranger. Ms. Gibbs' vehicle drifted into the northbound lane and struck the Ms. Garrison's vehicle head on. Penny Garrison, Jordan Duke, and Beverly Lopez were pronounced dead at the scene by the Hopkins County Coroner. Ethan Garrison was flown by Air Evac to Deaconess Hospital in Evansville. Meagan Gibbs and her child were transported by ambulance to Madisonville Regional Medical Center.

Three crashes involved motorcycles and occurred in Daviess, Taylor and Woodford counties. One of the victims was not wearing a helmet.

Through June 15, preliminary statistics* indicate that 330 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 55 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 260 motor vehicle fatalities, 166 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 32 motorcycle fatalities, 18 were not wearing helmets. Seven people have been killed in ATV crashes and 6 of those were not wearing helmets. Thirty pedestrians have been killed. A total of 61 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.

*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.

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Safe Kids Car Seat Checkups Louisville Ky and Lexington KY

2008-06-23T02:57:00.003-04:00

Get your Child Safety Seat checked

Safe Kids in cooperation with Commonwealth Credit Union in Lexington will be sponsoring a Safe Kids Car Seat Checkup and Buckle Up event at 280 Meier Way today. The event is scheduled from 2 to 4 today.

Safe Kids in Louisville will be doing a similiar event next Monday, June 30.Sponsored by Texas Roadhouse at 6460 Dutchman's Parkway, the event runs from 6 Am to 7 Pm.

Charlie and Joyce Pinson, Kentucky Insurance Agents, first became aquainted with Safe Kids through their involvement with Kiwanis. The Pinsons participated in a Safe Kids event, where a carseat was given away and hours later the child who recieved it was involved in a serious accident. What could have happened if that child had not been in a Kiwanis Safe Kids carseat? We will never know, but surely that carseat was a blessing!

If you have kids who are in carseats, go have your installations checked. If you need a carseat check with the Lexington and Louisville Chapters of Safe Kids. Keep you kids safe!

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7000 Drivers Cited in Kentucky Click It or Ticket

2008-06-17T02:49:00.001-04:00

KSP Writes Over 7,000 Seat Belt Citations During 'Click It or Ticket' Campaign

Date of News Release: 06/10/08

(Frankfort, KY) - The Kentucky State Police announced that as a result of its seatbelt enforcement efforts, 7,021 seat belt and 223 child restraint citations were issued to unrestrained motorists during the national 'Click It or Ticket' enforcement mobilization (May 19 – June 1, 2008). KSP joined other state and local law enforcement agencies who participated in 'Click It or Ticket' as part of a statewide effort to increase seat belt use among those identified as least likely to buckle up. The campaign includes the Memorial Day Holiday travel period which is one of the deadliest for motorists in the Commonwealth.

KSP Commissioner Rodney Brewer was pleased with his agency's results in the statewide mobilization effort.

"Last year, there were 835 crashes in Kentucky during the Memorial Day weekend," said Brewer. "Eight people lost their lives and 355 were injured. Many of these fatalities and injuries might have been avoided if the drivers had buckled up, slowed down and avoided the use of drugs and alcohol. I applaud the efforts of our troopers during this campaign and their dedication to saving lives on Kentucky roadways."

Captain Tim Lucas, Commander for the Highway Safety Branch points out that, according to the National Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), regular seat belt use remains the single most effective way to protect yourself and reduce fatalities in motor vehicle crashes. When worn correctly, seat belts have proven to reduce the risk of fatal injury to front-seat passenger car occupants by 45 percent - and by 60 percent in pickup trucks, SUVs, and minivans.

"Kentucky has a seat belt usage rate of 72 percent and even though we have improved from past years, it is still disturbing that some individuals refuse to buckle up - the citation numbers bear this out," said Lucas.

"We are hopeful that the numbers we achieve in 2008 will reflect that we are getting the message across to those who have cavalier attitudes when driving and less likely to buckle up," added Lucas.

In addition to the seat belt citations, KSP issued 6,333 speeding citations; 461 Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests; 46,308 vehicle inspections; 434 suspended license violations; 2,029 failure to provide proof of insurance citations; 77 reckless driving citations; 151 drug arrests; 6,279 miscellaneous traffic violations and 164 fugitives were apprehended during the enforcement campaign.

'Click It or Ticket' is a national enforcement effort that is supported by federal NHTSA funding allocated to the Kentucky Office of Highway Safety. KSP will continue its highway safety efforts through enforcement and public awareness throughout the summer.

The public is encouraged to report any unsafe operation of a motor vehicle by contacting the Kentucky State Police at 1-800-222-5555.

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Kentucky Motorcycle Safety

2008-06-16T02:41:00.002-04:00

Governor Beshear Appoints Members to Motorcycle Advisory Commission for Highway Safety

Press Release Date: Wednesday, June 11, 2008

FRANKFORT, KY – Governor Steve Beshear has appointed the following members to the Kentucky Motorcycle Advisory Commission for Highway Safety:

William H. McKinney, of Frankfort, is an engineer specialist for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. He represents the Transportation Office of Project Development. The appointment replaces Roy E. Johnson, whose term has expired. McKinney shall serve for a term expiring June 30, 2009.

David Webster, of Glencoe, has previously managed an excavating company and worked as a journeyman iron worker. He represents the Kentucky Motorcycle Association. The appointment replaces Eugene P. Blakeman whose term has expired. Webster shall serve for a term expiring June 30, 2009.

Tim Cody, of Hindman, is the director of the Knott County ATV & Motorcycle Rider Training Center. He represents the Kentucky Motorcycle Safety Education Advisory Council. The appointment replaces Malcolm Winsper, whose term has expired. Cody shall serve for a term expiring June 30, 2010.

Tim Lucas, of Lawrenceburg, is a captain for the Kentucky State Police. He represents Kentucky State Police. The appointment replaces Shelby Lawson, whose term has expired. Lucas shall serve for a term expiring June 30, 2012. This appointment shall become effective July 1, 2008.

Jo Anne Tingle, of Frankfort, is an engineer specialist for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. She represents the Transportation Office of Construction and Operations. The appointment replaces Katrina O. Bradley, whose term has expired. Tingle shall serve for a term expiring June 30, 2011.

The governor has also reappointed the following members to the commission:

Gary L. Johnson, of Calhoun, is a construction manager for the Rogers Group, Inc. He represents the Kentucky Association of Highway Contractors. Johnson will serve for a term expiring June 30, 2011.

Michael A. Canchola, of Lebanon Junction, is an inspector for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. He represents the Kentucky Motorcycle Association. Canchola will serve for a term expiring June 30, 2010.

The Motorcycle Advisory Commission for Highway Safety assists the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet in ensuring that highway design, construction and maintenance policies and procedures consider the specific needs of motorcyclists. The commission examines cabinet policies and procedures in areas including, but not limited to, crash barrier design, road maintenance practices, road construction, traffic control devices and intelligent transportation systems and recommends changes where necessary.

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Alledged Kentucky Insurance Fraud in Corbin

2008-06-13T10:32:00.005-04:00

CORBIN WOMAN INDICTED FOR INSURANCE FRAUD

Allegedly falsified claims history information on application

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 11, 2008) – A Corbin woman is in custody after being indicted on a felony count of insurance fraud.

According to court documents, Christine V. Young filled out an application for homeowners insurance coverage with State Farm Insurance Company stating that she and other household members had no losses for the past three years. She also allegedly stated that no insurer had refused to issue or renew coverage during that time period.

An investigation by the Kentucky Office of Insurance (KOI) Fraud Investigation Division found that another insurer canceled Young’s homeowners policy due to misrepresentations on the application. In addition, Young was directly or indirectly involved in at least four fire losses and one major theft loss during the three-year period.

She was arrested by a KOI fraud investigator and the Corbin City Police and is being held in the Knox County Jail. If found guilty, she faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

The Office of Insurance is an agency of the Department of Public Protection in the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet

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Kentucky Highway Fatalities June 2-8

2008-06-10T11:47:00.003-04:00

Nine Die on Kentucky Roadways Last Week (June 2 - June 8)

Date of News Release: 06/09/08

(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that nine people died in nine separate crashes on Kentucky's roadways from Monday, June 2 through Sunday, June 8, 2008. Seven of the fatalities involved motor vehicles and four of those victims were not wearing seat belts. The motor vehicle crashes occurred in Clay, Graves, Hopkins, Leslie, Mason, Pulaski and Warren counties. The suspected use of alcohol was a factor in one of these crashes.

Two of the crashes involved motorcycles and occurred in Boyle and Pike county. One of the victims was wearing a helmet.

Through June 8, preliminary statistics* indicate that 309 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 55 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 247 motor vehicle fatalities, 158 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 27 motorcycle fatalities, 15 were not wearing helmets. Seven people have been killed in ATV crashes and 6 of those were not wearing helmets. Twenty-seven pedestrians have been killed. A total of 56 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.

*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.

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Summer Food, Swimming and Kentucky Health

2008-06-03T03:11:00.001-04:00

Public Health Issues Safety Guidelines for Food Handling, Swimming

The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) wants to remind outdoor dining and swimming enthusiasts of some tips to stay safe during family get-togethers and swimming outings planned for the season.

“The onset of summer is reason to celebrate for many people, especially those who enjoy outdoor parties and water sports,” said William Hacker, M.D., acting undersecretary for health and DPH commissioner. “They certainly are wonderful activities, and we want all Kentuckians to enjoy them. Still, we have to be mindful of public health and safety.”

DPH has compiled a list of basic safety tips to follow to avoid illnesses linked to improperly stored/prepared food or swimming in contaminated waters.

For grilling:

Wash your hands before and after handling food. Be sure all utensils and plates are clean before preparing or serving food.

Use the refrigerator for slow, safe thawing or thaw under cool running water. You may use the microwave for thawing, but grill immediately.

Marinate in the refrigerator, not on the counter.

Always use a meat thermometer to check internal meat temperatures. Color is not a reliable indicator of doneness. Cook food to the proper internal temperature:

DPH also recommends keeping meat and poultry refrigerated until ready to use. After cooking meat and poultry on the grill, keep it at 140 degrees F or warmer. In weather warmer than 90 degrees F, food should never sit out for more than two hours. Refrigerate any leftovers promptly in shallow containers to ensure they’re cooled quicker and more thoroughly.

Kentucky Swimming Health Concerns

In addition, DPH also stressed the importance of healthy swimming behaviors in preventing recreational water illnesses (RWIs). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), state and local health departments across the country investigated more RWI outbreaks in 2007 than ever before, many linked to Cryptosporidium (“Crypto”), a chlorine-resistant parasite.

Awareness of RWIs and healthy swimming behaviors play an important role in stopping transmission of the illnesses. Germs on and in swimmers’ bodies end up in the water and can make other people sick. Even healthy swimmers can get sick from RWIs, but young people, the elderly, pregnant women and immunosuppressed people are especially at risk. Specific actions you can take to promote healthy swimming include:

Do not swim when you have diarrhea.

Do not swallow pool water or get pool water in your mouth.

Shower before swimming (children too).

Wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers.

Take children on bathroom breaks or change diapers often.

Change children’s diapers in a bathroom, not at poolside.

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Joyce Pinson,Kentucky Health Insurance agent, is an avid griller and loves to grill fresh Kentucky produce.

Kentucky Teen Driving Resources

2008-06-02T11:40:00.007-04:00

It's graduation week here in the Kentucky, with many high schools ready to turn loose Kentucky's latest crop of graduates. Like their parents, and their parents before them, new graduates are eager to celebrate their accomplishments and new found freedom. It's the job of educators, parents, and mentors to help the graduates keep their feet on the ground and drive responsibly.

In previous columns, I have referred a number of sites that are aimed at teens and parents of teens. It always comes down to parents having an open dialog with their children about being responsible behind the wheel.

Here's the latest website I think is worth mentioning

Road Ready Teens by Chrysler

The site includes sections for Teens as well as parents of teens. The Kentucky Department of Transportation has this site on their resources page. Additionally, they post links to the National Safety Council's site, which includes many links to young drivers and teen drivers information.

Happy Kentucky Graduation...and be safe out there!

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Saving Money At the Pump

2008-05-29T10:38:00.005-04:00

Gas prices hitting Kentuckians in the Pocketbook

Is it just me or is gas prices spilling over into all aspects of our lives? For instance, at the grocery store I am used to the shelves being stocked to biblical proportions "heaped up, pressed down, and running over." Not only are the shelves not stocked, they are on the verge of "empty" on many items. Ask store management, and they tell you vendors stock less frequently due to fuel costs. Not only are the shelves less than overflowing, but prices are going up, up, up. It's a pinch on the pocketbook!

At our Kentucky insurance office we are seeing more of our office pays take advantage of our Internet online pay options. I miss seeing some of them, but again it's more economical to pay online, than drive to our office.

On the home front, we have been building. Costs of lumber is going up, chiefly due to fuel expenses. Materials are not even delivered "as needed," now they wait until they have a full load. Yes, I understand the fuel economy but when you have contractors with no materials, it is no economy for me.Whaaa!

So what can I do to economize my fuel costs and make consumption more efficient?

Check your tires to make sure they are inflated properly.

On pretty days, lay off the air conditioner. Roll down your car windows and let the breeze blow your hair. Forget about your dignity! Buy a comb.

Combine trips. I have been amazed how many gallons of gas I have saved by running all my errands at once. Not only does it save gas, it saves me time...something I have precious little of!

My metro friends in Lexington and Louisville, avoid traffic snarls and lots of stopping and starting. Take the back way. Get off the expressway...if you are travelling over 60 mph you are wasting fuel anyway.

Get a tune up. Make sure your vehicle is in tip-top running condition for best fuel efficiency.

This one surprised me, but empty out your trunk if you are carrying allot of "extra baggage." The more you carry, the more energy you expend.

Are you a visual person? Check out this site which has an interactive car graphic that allows you to analyze all parts of your car and see what you can do to save your Kentucky gas dollars.

Other resources

Myths about saving gas

Fine Living saving gas

CNN Best Fuel Efficient Cars

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A Kentucky insurance agent, Joyce Pinson hates to drive. She is very good at carpooling and planning efficient errand running. Click for more Kentucky Insurance Consumer Tips.

Pool and Spa Safety Tips Protecting Your Kids

2008-05-28T03:38:00.001-04:00

Safe Kids Issues Pool and Spa Safety Reminder

Media Contact: Mary Margaret Colliver, (859) 361-1887

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 22, 2008) –Safe Kids Fayette County, led by UK HealthCare's Kentucky Children's Hospital, is reminding families about the serious risk of child drownings in pools and spas.

With pool season unofficially opening during Memorial Day weekend, the Neighborhood Safety Network (NSN), a project of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), reports there has been an increase in drownings.

The report indicates the national average number of drowning deaths involving children younger than 5 in pools and spas has increased from a yearly average of 267 (for 2002-2004) to 283 (for 2003-2005), with most of the incidents involving 1 to 2 year olds.

"Drowning occurs more commonly when children get access to the pool during a short lapse in adult supervision" said Sherri Hannan, coordinator of Safe Kids Fayette County. "To reduce the risk of drowning, pool owners should adopt several layers of protection, including physical barriers, such as a fence completely surrounding the pool with self-closing, self-latching gates to prevent unsupervised access by young children. If the house forms a side of the barrier, use alarms on doors leading to the pool area and/or a power safety cover over the pool."

Hannan says parents should use these tips to help prevent drowning deaths:

Since every second counts, always look for a missing child in the pool first. Precious time is often wasted looking for missing children anywhere but in the pool.

Don't leave toys and floats in the pool that can attract young children and cause them to fall into the water when they reach for the items.

Inspect pools and spas for missing or broken drain covers.

Do not allow children in a pool or spa with missing/broken covers. Inserting an arm or leg into the opening can result in powerful suction and total body submersion/drowning.

For above-ground and inflatable pools with ladders, remove or secure the ladder when the pool is not in use.

It is important to always be prepared for an emergency by having rescue equipment and a phone near the pool. Parents should learn CPR.

New CPSC data also shows that between 1999 and 2007 there were 74 reported incidents involving entrapment, resulting in nine deaths and 63 injuries. Six of the deaths occurred in pools and three occurred in spas and all of the deaths except for one involved children 14 or younger. These entrapment incidents involve being trapped by the force of suction at the drain and can occur because of a broken or missing outlet cover.

Parents, caregivers, and pool owners are encouraged to make safety a top priority at the pool and spa. The new “Partners in Drowning Prevention” PDF poster is available.

Safe Kids Fayette County works to prevent accidental childhood injury, the leading killer of children 14 and under. Its members include health professionals, school, police and fire officials, and community leaders. Safe Kids Lexington is a member of Safe Kids Worldwide, a global network of organizations dedicated to preventing accidental injury. Safe Kids Lexington was founded in 1993 and is led by UK HealthCare's Kentucky Children's Hospital. For more information, contact Safe Kids Lexington at (859) 323-1153.

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Charlie and I first became acquainted with the Safe Kids program through our work with local Kentucky Kiwanis Clubs. Our Kentucky insurance agency personal lines manager,
Mark Frantom is in-line to be president of our local Kiwanis club.

Kentucky Highways 100 Deadly Days of Summer

2008-05-27T09:59:00.003-04:00

By Rodney Brewer, Kentucky State Police Commissioner
Date of News Release: 05/15/2008

(Frankfort, KY) - Many families plan summer vacation road trips which include scenic areas within the Commonwealth that are a convenient driving distance from home. This vacation time frame is often referred to by law enforcement as the "100 Deadly Days of Summer," part of a national enforcement campaign that targets aggressive drivers. The time period from Memorial Day to Labor Day represents one of the most dangerous and deadliest times of year on our nation's highways. An overarching reason is the significant jump in alcohol-related traffic crashes and fatalities.

Impaired driving is one of America's deadliest problems. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that an average of 36 fatalities occur each day on America's roadways as a result of crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver. Every 30 minutes, someone in America dies in an alcohol-related crash, and more than 300,000 are injured each year. Statistics reveal that about three in every 10 Americans will be involved in an alcohol-related crash at some point in their lives.

During the Commonwealth's peak travel season, we must call awareness to the need for increased driver safety. With rare exception, the vast majority of vehicle crashes are preventable. The Kentucky State Police (KSP) can help stem the tide, but we also need every Kentuckian's cooperation. KSP has a toll free number (800.222.5555) that motorists can call to report impaired, aggressive or unsafe drivers.

Seat belt usage is the single most effective action you can take to protect yourself in a vehicle crash. Seat belt use reduces the risk of sustaining a fatal injury by 45 percent in a car and 60 percent in a light truck. Additionally, 60 percent of passengers killed in traffic crashes are not wearing seat belts. As of May 1, 2008, a total of 224 people have lost their lives on Kentucky's roadways. Of the 224 motor vehicle fatalities, 125 were not wearing seat belts and 47 were the result of crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.

Kentucky Highway Safety Tips

Despite record gas prices, the American Automobile Association (AAA) predicts that nearly 39 million drivers across the United States will hit the road during each Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day holiday weekends. If you're going to be one of the countless people behind the wheel, here are a few safety tips you should know:

Obey speed limits. Excessive speed reduces your ability to avoid a crash, extends your vehicle's stopping distance and increases the severity of a crash when it occurs.

Don't tailgate. Follow other vehicles at a safe distance. If you find yourself being tailgated, don't hit the brakes. Slow down gradually and let the other vehicle pass you.

Avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as passing on the shoulder of the road, changing lanes without signaling, violating traffic signals and weaving in and out of traffic.

Avoid or minimize in-car distractions such as cell phone use, changing tapes or CDs, or eating.

Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation and fatigue can cause lapses in attention, slowed awareness and impaired judgment.

Take frequent breaks to keep alert during long distance trips.

Be extra cautious around large trucks. They have large "blind spots" and much longer stopping distances than passenger cars.

Please do your part to be safe and remember that 80 percent of crashes occur within 20 miles of home at speeds of 45 miles per hour or less. About 40 percent of all fatal crashes occur on roads where the speed limit is 30 miles per hour or less. These tips will increase your chances of survival and reduced speed will also increase your fuel mileage.

The Kentucky State Police, in conjunction with local law enforcement will be out in force conducting safety check points, saturation patrols on interstates and local highways with emphasis on high-crash locations throughout the summer. Do your part not to be a statistic during this dangerous time period by buckling up and driving the speed limit.

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Safe Driving Tips for Memorial Day

2008-05-23T13:27:00.003-04:00

Kentucky State Police Working Overtime During Memorial Day Weekend

Date of News Release: 05/21/08

(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Traffic on the state's roadways is expected to increase significantly during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, which traditionally marks the beginning of the summer driving season. Accordingly, the Kentucky State Police plans to intensify its traffic safety efforts from 6 p.m. on Friday, May 23, through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, May 26.

To increase your chances of surviving highway travel during this dangerous holiday, KSP offers this simple advice: slow down, buckle up and don't drive while impaired by drugs or alcohol.

"Last year, there were 835 crashes in Kentucky during the Memorial Day weekend," says KSP Commissioner Rodney Brewer. "Eight people lost their lives and 355 were injured. Many of these fatalities and injuries might have been avoided if the drivers had slowed down, buckled up and avoided the use of drugs and alcohol."

"As of May 18, a total of 270 people have lost their lives on Kentucky's roadways in 2008," says Capt. Tim Lucas, commander of KSP's Highway Safety Branch. "Of the 220 motor vehicle fatalities, 142 were not wearing seat belts and 50 were the result of crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol."

Lucas points out that, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), using a seat belt is the single most effective action you can take to protect yourself in a vehicle crash. Seat belt use reduces the risk of sustaining a fatal injury by 45 percent in a car and 60 percent in a light truck. It also reports that 60 percent of passengers killed in traffic crashes are not wearing seat belts.

Lucas also reminds motorists that Kentucky has a zero tolerance policy regarding driving while impaired by alcohol. "Although driving with a blood alcohol level of .08 is illegal, you can also be arrested for lower levels if you are under 21 years of age or operating a commercial vehicle," he explains. "If you are going to drive, it's best not to consume any alcohol at all."

"Even first time violators face immediate arrest, which can result in court costs, legal fees, higher Kentucky auto insurance rates, fines, loss of license and even imprisonment," he adds.

As part of the "Click It or Ticket" campaign, which started May 19 and continues through June 1, state troopers will be working overtime during the Memorial Day holiday. Operations will include increased saturation patrols and traffic safety checkpoints and coordinated enforcement activities with local police and sheriff's departments for maximum coverage.

KSP reminds motorists that Kentucky law requires them to slow down and use caution when they see a law enforcement or emergency vehicle stopped alongside the road with its lights flashing. They must move over to the lane farthest away from the vehicle if they are on a four-lane road with two lanes proceeding in the same direction and can do so safely.

Motorists should also be aware that the back seat is the safest place for children to sit, especially in vehicles equipped with passenger-side air bags. Infants and toddlers should never ride in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger-side air bag. Parents should always be sure that their child's safety seat has been properly installed in the vehicle according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Kentucky law requires all children 40 inches in height or less to be buckled into a child safety restraint seat that meets federal standards. Children over 40 inches tall must wear a seat belt. Violators face a $50.00 fine with an additional $10.00 fine donated to the Traumatic Brain Injury Trust Fund.

According to NHTSA, properly installed child safety seats reduce the risk of death by 71 percent for infants and 54 percent for toddlers in passenger cars.

Kentucky law makes the driver responsible for assuring that all occupants of the vehicle are properly restrained. Violation of this law will result in a fine not to exceed $25.00.

Other tips recommended by KSP for safe road travel include:

Slow down in roadway construction zones. Watch for lane closures and merge well before the actual closure. Look for orange warning signs, follow posted speed limits, leave adequate space between vehicles, watch for workers and sudden stops and be prepared for changing road surfaces and traffic patterns.

Avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as passing on the shoulder of the road, changing lanes without signaling, violating traffic signals and weaving in and out of traffic.

Expect the unexpected. Watch traffic around you and be prepared to react. Scan the road ahead for potential hazards.

Watch for road debris such as tire treads, garbage, lumber, gravel, tree limbs, mufflers and exhaust parts.

Take extra care on rural roads with 55 mile per hour speed limits.

"Please do your part to be safe," says Brewer. "Remember, three out of four crashes happen within 25 miles of home at speeds of 45 miles per hour or less. About 40 percent of all fatal crashes occur on roads where the speed limit is 30 miles per hour or less."

Citizens can further contribute to highway safety during the holiday period by reporting erratic drivers to the KSP toll-free hotline at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible.

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The staff of Charlie Pinson Insurance KY wishes all a safe Memorial Day holiday. We will return to our Kentucky insurance office on Tuesday.

Kentucky Senior Citizens urged to get Shingles Vaccine

2008-05-22T03:15:00.000-04:00

May 15, 2008 Contact: CDC Division of Media Relations

CDC Recommends Shingles Vaccine

People age 60 and older should be vaccinated against shingles, or herpes zoster, a condition often marked by debilitating chronic pain, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended today.

CDC recommends a single dose of the zoster vaccine, Zostavax, for adults 60 years of age and older even if they have had a prior episode of shingles. The new full recommendation replaces a provisional recommendation that the CDC made in 2006, after the vaccine was licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and recommended by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a committee of immunization experts who advise CDC on immunization policy.

The recommendation was published in an early release electronic edition of CDC’s Mortality and Morbidity Weekly Report (MMWR) Recommendations and Reports. The ACIP recommendation becomes CDC policy once it is published in the MMWR.

Researchers found that, overall, in those ages 60 and above the vaccine reduced the occurrence of shingles by about 50 percent. For individuals ages 60-69 it reduced occurrence by 64 percent. The most common side effects in people who received Zostavax were redness, pain and tenderness, swelling at the site of injection, itching and headache.

Over 95 percent of people are infected by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), during their lifetime. The virus causes the common childhood disease chickenpox and then becomes dormant within the nerves. If it reactivates later in life, the result can be shingles. Shingles is characterized by clusters of blisters, which develop on one side of the body in a band-like pattern and can cause severe pain that may last for weeks, months or years. About one in three persons will develop shingles during their lifetimes, resulting in about one million cases of shingles per year.

Chickenpox (also called varicella) is usually mild, but it can be serious, especially in young infants and adults. Children who have never had chickenpox should get two doses of chickenpox vaccine starting at 12 months of age. The risk of contracting shingles increases with age starting at around 50, and is highest in the elderly. Half of people living to age 85 have had or will get shingles. The risk of experiencing chronic pain also increases with age.

Shingles Facts

Anyone who has had chicken pox can get shingles. That means 95 percent of adults are at risk.

Approximately one-third of the U.S. population will get shingles.
More than half of older adults do not understand the seriousness of shingles and its complications.

Among those who get shingles, more than one-third will develop serious complications. The risk of complications rises after 60 years of age.

Appropriate and immediate treatment of herpes zoster can control acute symptoms and reduce the risk of longer term complications. Starting anti-viral medication within 72 hours of the onset of shingles can reduce the pain and the length of time the outbreak lasts.

For more information about the
shingles vaccine, please visit this website.
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Senior Citizens being targeted in Insurance Scam

2008-05-21T03:20:00.001-04:00

NEWS RELEASE from Kentucky Office of Insurance provided on this blog by Kentucky Health Insurance Agents at Triple B Insurance

CONSUMERS WARNED OF SCAMS ASKING FOR PERSONAL DATA

Agency advises consumers to hang up on suspicious callers

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 16, 2008) – The Kentucky Office of Insurance (KOI) has received reports of several scams and is warning consumers to take extra precautions to protect financial information.

Consumer advocates, police departments and other agencies across the country are warning about a variety of scams coming from a Bismarck, N.D., telephone number - 701-221-2212.

A woman in Louisville told an investigator from KOI’s Consumer Protection and Education Division that she took a call from that number earlier this week. The caller, who identified himself as Sid Johnson, said Medicare was making some changes to its plan and he needed her bank account information to ensure that her Social Security check was properly deposited.

In an effort to prove the call was valid, the man said his Medicare ID # was MD10956J. The Louisville woman said the caller already had some information about her but was missing some key pieces, such as her age. She did not give him any information, hung up and called KOI.

Other scams associated with this number have included the promise of a rebate from the Internal Revenue Service or some other refund or check that can only be received by direct deposit.

Consumers should never give financial information over the phone, particularly if they did not initiate the call, said John Burkholder, KOI acting executive director.

Another scam report came from the Mt. Vernon police department. Several senior citizens in the area reported receiving an automated message that the consumer’s auto insurance was expiring and must be renewed by pressing “1.” When the consumer followed the directions, the next message asked for personal information. This call originated from 702-528-1131, a number in Las Vegas.

“If a call makes you suspicious or uncomfortable, hang up,” said Burkholder. “Government agencies, insurance companies and legitimate businesses would not ask consumers for information using these methods.”

The Office of Insurance is an agency of the Department of Public Protection in the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet.

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Article provided courtesy of Triple B Insurance Kentucky Health Insurance. Click for a Kentucky Medicare Supplement Quote.

Kentucky Child Safety Seat Check MAY 20 Somerset KY Pulaski County

2008-05-20T03:21:00.002-04:00

Pulaski County Safe Kids Grand Opening Today 12 - 3 PM

If you live in Somerset, or are part of the "Ohio Navy", Check out the new Safe Kids Pulaski County chapter today. From Noon until three, the local GM dealership in conjunction with Safe Kids will be doing a Child Car Seat Event at 117 Washington Drive, which is of course the Walmart parking lot off of US 27.

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More about Safe Kids Programs Child Safety Seats and Highway Safety

Safe Kids USA Plans Nearly 500 Child Passenger Safety Events During May

Safe Kids Buckle Up Offers Families Hands-on Educational Activities to Increase Knowledge about Safety In and Around Vehicles

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Safe Kids USA’s local coalitions will conduct nearly 500 child passenger safety events in locations across the country during the month of May. Events will be held in nearly all 50 states, at locations including Chevrolet and other GM dealerships, fire stations, hospitals, retail stores, and insurance offices.

More than 300 of the events will be traditional car seat check-up events, where parents and caregivers learn how to properly secure children in car seats, booster seats and seat belts. Coalitions will also be holding the Automotive Safety Patch program for Cub Scouts, a new element of Safe Kids Buckle Up that teaches families how to keep children safer in and around vehicles.

The program covers proper safety belt and booster seat use, teaching families not to leave their children unattended in a vehicle, safety in and around vehicles and how to contact OnStar in the event of an emergency. Certified child passenger safety technicians from the coalitions will also conduct educational workshops for dealership personnel.

“The Safe Kids Buckle Up program holds vehicle safety events for children and families throughout the year in all parts of the country,” said Torine Creppy, Safe Kids USA’s chief program officer and director of the Safe Kids Buckle Up program. “The sheer number of events scheduled for May shows the commitment of our Safe Kids coalitions and volunteers who dedicate themselves to assuring a safer ride for children across the country.”

Safe Kids Buckle Up is a national program developed by Safe Kids USA and sponsored by the General Motors Foundation and Chevrolet to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of protecting children in and around vehicles at all times. Since 1997, the program has inspected nearly one million car seats, donated approximately 365,000 seats to families in need and educated millions of adults and children through programs such as Spot the Tot and Never Leave Your Child Alone.

In addition, a fleet of more than 130 Mobile Car Seat Checkup Vans serves communities across the United States, more than 450 permanent child safety seat inspections stations are operated by Safe Kids coalitions, and program resources are used to advocate for upgraded child passenger laws in the states.

About Safe Kids Buckle Up

Safe Kids Buckle Up® is a national program developed by Safe Kids USA and sponsored by General Motors Foundation and Chevrolet to educate parents and caregivers about the importance of properly restraining children on every ride. Since 1997, the program has inspected nearly one million car seats; held approximately 45,000 car seat checkup events around the country; donated approximately 365,000 car seats to families in need and educated more than 13 million parents and caregivers. For more information visit: www.safekids.org.

About General Motors

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world’s largest automaker, has been the annual global industry sales leader for 77 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 274,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 35 countries. In 2007, nearly 9.37 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

SPOT THE TOTsm is a service mark of Primary Children’s Medical Center Foundation.

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Our Kentucky Insurance Agency became familiar with the Safe Kids program through our work with the local Kiwanis clubs. We encourage all parents to have their child's safety seats checked.

Louisville KY gets new Heart Doc

2008-05-19T03:48:00.000-04:00

Internationally-known Cardiac Surgeon to Join Jewish Hospital and University of Louisville KY

Louisville, Ky. – Mark S. Slaughter, M.D. will join Jewish Hospital and the University of Louisville as Director of the Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, effective August 1, 2008. The appointment at UofL is contingent upon approval from the University’s Board of Trustees.

Dr. Slaughter is director of the heart transplantation and mechanical assist device program at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, Illinois and holds appointments in the Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology and Biophysics at the University of Illinois, Chicago.

A world-renowned expert in heart transplantation, ventricular assist devices and surgical management of heart failure, Dr. Slaughter earned his B.S. in civil engineering at Purdue University and his M.D. at Indiana University. He completed his residency in general surgery at Northwestern University and fellowship in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery at the University of Minnesota. He is board certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery, the American Board of Surgery and the National Board of Medical Examiners.

Dr. Slaughter’s research focuses on vascular assist devices and heart failure, with a strong track record of research funding over the last decade. He has participated in more than 35 clinical trials focused on innovations in cardiac surgery, vascular assist devices, treatments for congestive heart failure and related areas. He has given more than 65 invited lectures, published more than 50 peer-reviewed papers and book chapters and presented more than 85 papers and abstracts at national and international conferences.

Slaughter succeeds Laman Gray, M.D., who is retiring as the Chief of the Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery after a distinguished career to focus on his position as Medical Director of the Cardiovascular Innovation Institute, a partnership between the University of Louisville and Jewish Hospital aimed at improving quality of life for patients with cardiovascular disease by building on the success of both organizations’ previous work with ventricular assist devices and artificial hearts.

“Dr. Slaughter is known around the world and brings to this community and our medical team tremendous experience in the field cardiac research,” said Bob Shircliff, Jewish Hospital & St. Mary’s HealthCare CEO. “Dr. Gray has been a pioneer in innovative heart procedures, and we’re looking forward to continuing our work with him at the Cardiovascular Innovation Institute. I’m confident that Dr. Slaughter will provide us similar leadership in heart care and that he will help Jewish Hospital continue to be recognized among the top 50 hospitals in the U.S. in quality care in heart and heart surgery as reported by US News and World Report .”

“I have every expectation that Dr. Slaughter will provide the type of senior leadership that will take this program to new heights, building on the tradition of excellence established by Dr. Gray. He understands and is committed to our vision for outstanding education – particularly in our cardiothoracic residency program – groundbreaking research and compassionate, leading-edge patient care,” said Kelly McMasters, M.D., Ph.D., Sam and Lolita Weakley professor and Chairman of UofL’s Department of Surgery.

“Dr. Slaughter is an outstanding cardiac surgeon and will advance University of Louisville's and Jewish Hospital's cardiac surgery,” said Dr. Gray. “His expertise in mini invasive coronary artery and valve surgery will bring new expertise to the community. In addition, he is one of the outstanding surgeons in cardiac transplantation and circulatory support in this country.”

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Don't Stay In Car when Tornadoes are on the Way

2008-05-16T03:12:00.001-04:00

Kentucky Tornado Safety

Growing up in Northern Kentucky, my high school usually conducted tornado safety drills a couple of times a year. Later, when I was a student at Lexington's UK, I worked for the Agricultural Weather Center. When tornadoes were near campus and everyone else was heading for cover, I was heading to the weather center to get the news online for our Kentucky farmers. I guess I am a storm junkie.

Nevertheless, I know if there are tornadoes and I am in a car it is best to take cover. Find a strong structure and get inside; do not stay in your car. A vehicle is no match for a tornado!

Read the Insurance Journal's Article on Tornados and Cars

Fema offers Tornado Safety tips at their site. If you are driving or a passenger in a car, do not try to outrun the storm. If you can get to a strong shelter quickly, do so. If you need to act immediately, get out of your car and into a ditch or depression. Get LOW, and cover your head with your hands. Do not get under a bridge. Watch out for flying debris, and be careful that the ditch you have chosen doesn't put you in a vulnerable position for storm flooding.

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Joyce Pinson is a Kentucky Health Insurance agent. While Kentucky is perhaps less prone to tornadoes than the breadbasket states of Kansas and Oklahoma, it is important to be informed about tornado safety. Talk to your family about your tornado safety plans.

Pikeville KY State Trooper Crum KSP Trooper of Year 2007

2008-05-15T03:34:00.000-04:00

Kentucky State Police Announce Trooper of the Year

Date of News Release: 05/08/2008 Kentucky State Police

(Frankfort, KY) - The Kentucky State Police named Pikeville, Ky.-resident Edward R. Crum "2007 Trooper of the Year" at a ceremony held today at the University Club in Louisville. Thirty-nine other troopers and four private citizens were also recognized for acts of meritorious service and achievement, valor, bravery, life-saving acts, professionalism and dedication to duty.

An 18-year veteran of the Kentucky State Police, Detective Crum is assigned to KSP Post 9 in Pikeville, which covers Floyd, Johnson, Magoffin, Martin and Pike counties.

Capt. Jeff Caudill, commander of Post 9, described Crum as "an aggressive investigator and one of the most highly skilled accident reconstructionists in the state."

In 2007, in addition to his normal investigative workload, Crum conducted 100 collision reconstructions, assisted other KSP troopers with 82 collision investigations and assisted other agencies with 55 collision investigations. He also completed 67 downloads from vehicle electronic control modules to assist in collision investigations. As a member of KSP's Accident Reconstruction Team, he was activated three times.

Crum was also the lead investigator in a series of armed robberies in his post area and his persistence resulted in arrests that are now awaiting prosecution.

A native of Elkhorn City, Ky., Crum is a 1983 graduate of Elkhorn City High School and a 1985 graduate of Mayo State Community College in Paintsville. He is the son of Jim and Brenda Crum of Pike County.

Twenty-one troopers were named Trooper of the Year at the post or branch level. They include:

Trooper Thomas M. Clifton --Post 1-Mayfield

Trooper Derek A. Smith--Post 2-Madisonville

Detective Scott A. Skaggs --Post 3-Bowling Green

Detective Jon Paul Taylor--Post 4-Elizabethtown

Trooper Seth B. Willis--Post 5-Campbellsburg

Trooper Christopher D. Steward--Post 6-Dry Ridge

Trooper Robert R. Purdy--Post 7-Richmond

Detective Christopher S. Fearin--Post 8-Morehead

Detective Edward R. Crum--Post 9-Pikeville KY

Trooper Walter S. Szczepan--Post 10-Harlan

Detective Michael Bowling Jr.--Post 11-London

Trooper First Class Ronald Turley--Post 12-Frankfort

Trooper Charles J. King--Post 13-Hazard

Trooper Craig Morella--Post 14-Ashland

Trooper Fredrick R. Cornett--Post 15-Columbia

Trooper Thomas M. Hampton, Jr.--Post 16-Henderson

Trooper First Class Ricky Underwood--Special Operations

Detective Marcus W. Hopkins--East Drug Enforcement

Detective Timothy N. Simpson--West Drug Enforcement

Trooper First Class Mack Rayburn--Administrative Division

Detective Christopher L. Frazier--Technical Services Division

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Our Kentucky Insurance agency congratulates all the above troopers on a job well done. We are especially pleased to congratulate Edward "Eddie" Crum, who lives and works in our hometown.Get Kentucky Insurance Quotes.

Kentucky Teen Highway Fatalities

2008-05-14T11:54:00.005-04:00

Four Teens Among Traffic Fatalities Last Week (May 5 -11)

Date of News Release: 05/12/08 from Kentucky State Police

(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that eleven people died in ten separate crashes on Kentucky's roadways from Monday, May 5 through Sunday, May 11, 2008.

Nine of the fatalities were traveling in motor vehicles and six of those victims were not wearing seat belts. One double-fatality crash occurred in Woodford county.

A motorcycle fatality occurred in Fayette county and the driver was not wearing a helmet. A pedestrian fatality was also reported in Fayette county.

Four teens were among the traffic fatalities this week and those collisions occurred in Grayson, Muhlenberg, Scott and Woodford counties.

Single-fatality crashes occurred in Grayson, Hardin, Muhlenberg, Perry, Pike, Scott, and Trigg counties.

Through May 11, preliminary statistics* indicate that 248 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 49 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 203 motor vehicle fatalities, 134 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 18 motorcycle fatalities, twelve were not wearing helmets. Twenty-three pedestrians have been killed. Three fatalities involved ATV's and one involved a bicycle. A total of 46 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.

*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.

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Kentucky Teensurance
Kentucky Teen Insurance for
Kentucky Young Drivers

With graduation and prom season upon us, pay close attention when you are behind the wheel. Be sure it buckle-up and drive with caution. ClickKentucky Auto Insurance Quotes from a Kentucky independent insurance agent.

Kentucky Young Drivers and Kentucky New Graduates

2008-05-13T03:40:00.000-04:00

Across the Commonwealth, May is traditionally college graduation month. As new graduates enter the workforce, rent their first apartment, look for their first real job, consider employee benefits, and insure their first car their plate is pretty full. Graduation is a time of celebration; but the "real world" can be overwhelming.

A resource that might be helpful is Insure U-Get Smart About Insurance . While not specific to Kentucky Insurance, the website by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners is a good starting point for new Kentucky insurance consumers.

There are interactive quiz surveys and thought provoking articles. Of course, consulting a Kentucky Insurance agent can help guide new graduates through the process.

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Charlie Pinson is a Kentucky Insurance agent and part-time Kentucky sportscaster. He is "The Voice of Pikeville College Bears" and is very involved with high school and college athletes. Charlie maintains a Kentucky sports blog focusing on student athletes. His Kentucky Insurance agency offers Kentucky car insurance, renters insurance, life insurance, and a variety of insurances for business professionals.

May is Disability Insurance Month

2008-05-12T02:56:00.003-04:00

If you couldn't work; how would your finances fair?

Several news sources have been buzzing about a Harris Interactive poll that indicates is someone became disabled, their first line of defense is retirement savings. Most people have not made preparations for a disability.

Years ago, the industry norm was that disability insurance was the most undersold product in our offerings. Consumers were more apt to buy life insurance than disability insurance; yet the likelihood of disability could be more eminent.

Disability income helps consumers have a bit of financial security. While most products do not replace 100% of an income, they do provide a revenue stream. It could mean the difference between keeping or loosing a home.

MetLife Disability Insurance Calculator

Findings from several different sources indicated that most consumers over estimate the amount of income they potentially could receive from the government. Are you curious about your own situation? The MetLife Disability Insurance Calculator is a good first step in your evaluation process.

This information is presented solely as an educational tool and is not meant to offer financial advice. Always consult an attorney or accountant when working with your finances.

Kentucky Insurance Agent

Charlie Pinson is a licensed representative of MetLife Investors USA Insurance Company, Metropolitain Life Insurance Company, and Met's auto insurance companies.

Smoke Free Laws Don't Impact Employee Turnover

2008-05-09T04:29:00.001-04:00

University of Kentucky Media Contacts:
Ann Blackford, (859) 323-6363, x230 Amanda Nelson, (859) 323-6363, x224

LEXINGTON, Ky. (May 7, 2008) − In a recent study published in Contemporary Economic Policy, Ellen Hahn, professor in the University of Kentucky College of Nursing, found that smoke-free laws do not negatively impact employee turnover. The report , “Smoke-Free Laws and Employee Turnover,” was the first of its kind to examine the impact of smoke-free laws on the restaurant labor market.

“We already know from multitudes of other studies that going smoke-free doesn’t hurt business,” Hahn said. “But this is the first one to look at how smoke-free laws may impact employee retention and training.”

The study examined payroll records of a franchisee of a national full-service restaurant chain that operates 23 restaurants in the state of Arizona, a state where several communities have adopted smoke-free laws.

“We thought we might see a short term spike in turnover but we didn’t see that,” said Eric Thompson, associate professor with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. In fact, they found a decline in the probability of turnover in the initial months after a smoke-free law was implemented as well as evidence that turnover rates were lower 16 to 18 months after implementation. However, over the long-run (a five year period) there was no consistent pattern of either a decline or an increase in employee turnover after the implementation of a smoke-free law.

By focusing on how a smoke-free policy impacted the restaurant workers’ interest or ability to stay on the job, the study supports existing evidence showing that smoke-free laws are positive for business.

“The reactions of the workers to the smoke-free laws showed that they weren’t apt to leave their jobs after their restaurants went smoke-free,” Hahn said.

Health advocates support local smoking ordinances as a public health strategy to enhance the safety of workplaces. But like many safety regulations, smoke-free laws have the potential to introduce economic inefficiencies. One earlier belief was that the introduction of a smoke-free law may cause some workers to leave their jobs at bar and restaurant businesses.

“The concern was that once smoking was no longer allowed, workers would no longer be interested in that particular job," Thompson said. "Ostensibly, when the smoking law changed, the mix of characteristics in their job (such as wages, job responsibilities, the presence of second hand smoke) may have changed and caused people to choose another place of work. But the study did not bear this out.”

Hahn hopes that this study will give the restaurant industry the courage to stop fighting smoke-free laws.

“There’s no reason the hospitality industry should resist smoke-free legislation in light of the huge body of research showing that it doesn’t impact business,” Hahn said.

The Substance Abuse Policy Research Program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation funds research into policies related to alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs.

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation focuses on the pressing health and health care issues facing our country. As the nation's largest philanthropy devoted exclusively to improving the health and health care of all Americans, the foundation works with a diverse group of organizations and individuals to identify solutions and achieve comprehensive, meaningful and timely change. For more than 30 years the foundation has brought experience, commitment, and a rigorous, balanced approach to the problems that affect the health and health care of those it serves. Helping Americans lead healthier lives and get the care they need—the foundation expects to make a difference in our lifetime.

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Triple B Insurance is a Kentucky health insurance agency offering Kentucky Group Health Insurance and employee benefits. Family and Individual Kentucky health insurance is also available.

Getting Students on the road to financial responsibility

2008-05-08T03:45:00.004-04:00

The Hartford offers "Playbook for Life" Broadcaster Dick Vitale to be spokesman

So you have children getting ready for college? So you are in college and want to work on a plan for financial success? You need to check out The Hartford's new Playbook for Life series. There is a guide for students to do their own financial planning as well as a guide for parents to help talk to their children about being fiscally responsible.

The Hartford's Playbook website features calculators, worksheets and guides to using credit cards.

A webinar by two time All-American from Notre Dame alumni, Allan Pinkett, is also presented. The webinar focuses on financial goal setting, understanding "real world" salaries, and tips for savings and credit.

The Hartford's "Playbook for life" is meant as a general education tool. Always consult a financial advisor when making important life choices.

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Charlie Pinson Insurance KY offers Kentucky Auto insurance through a number of companies including The Hartford. Charlie had the true pleasure of meeting Dick Vitale at a Kentucky health insurance conference several years back. Visit our website for Kentucky Insurance Quotes.

Kentucky Health Insurance Fraud Honesty is the best Policy

2008-05-07T08:05:00.000-04:00

NEWS RELEASE Kentucky Office of Insurance
Contact: Ronda Sloan 502-564-6098 502-330-1804 (cell)

FAILURE TO DISCLOSE MEDICAL INFORMATION IS FRAUD

Bowling Green man faces felony charge after allegedly lying about his health

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 5, 2008) – You are filling out an application for health insurance. Is it okay to shave a few pounds off your weight? To not mention those chest pains and the accompanying trip to the emergency room? What about your history of asthma?

“Lying or leaving out relevant information on an insurance application is fraud,” said John Burkholder, acting executive director of the Kentucky Office of Insurance (KOI). “Often, consumers think those things are minor and don’t matter. That thinking is very wrong.”

The KOI Fraud Investigation Division receives many referrals regarding instances where a consumer has supplied false, misleading or incomplete information on a health insurance application.

Tracy Cardwell, 40, of Bowling Green, recently was indicted on a felony count of insurance fraud after he allegedly completed an Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield application for individual health insurance, indicating he had no significant health problems. After Anthem accepted Cardwell in the plan, medical records showed he had health conditions that were not disclosed on the application. The company rescinded the policy and received refunds from the providers who had treated Cardwell. He now is responsible for repaying the more than $14,000 paid for his medical care under the Anthem policy.

“Consumers often think that leaving out information can result in a lower premium or will ensure acceptance into a plan. This case underscores the need to be totally truthful on an application. Otherwise, you could pay a lot more in the end,” said Burkholder.

KOI is an agency of the Department of Public Protection

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Triple B Insurance offers Kentucky health insurance from a number of providers including Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. The Kentucky health insurance agency offers group, individual, family, employee benefits, and short term health insurance.

Fatal Schoolbus Crash Pendleton County KY

2008-05-06T10:11:00.003-04:00

KSP Highway Safety Branch News Release

For More Information Contact:

Sherry Bray KSP Highway Safety Branch

Media Coordinator (502) 695-6353

Tragic Week on Kentucky Roadways (April 28 – May 4)

Date of News Release: 05/05/08

(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that fifteen people died in twelve separate crashes on Kentucky's roadways from Monday, Apr. 28 through Sunday, May 4, 2008.

Ten of the fatalities were traveling in motor vehicles and five of those victims were not wearing seat belts. There were three double-fatality motor vehicle crashes that occurred in Bullitt, Greenup and Livingston counties.

There were two ATV fatalities and both of those victims were not wearing helmets. The fatalities occurred in Knott and Magoffin counties and one was the result of the suspected use of alcohol. One pedestrian fatality occurred in Pulaski county. A bicycle fatality was reported in Jefferson county.

A bus crash occurred in Pendleton county, killing sixteen year old Daniel Wood of Falmouth. The crash occurred on Ky. 22 at Ballinger road when a dump truck crossed the double yellow line hitting the side and back of the bus.

Single-fatality crashes occurred in Christian and Lyon counties.

Through May 4, preliminary statistics* indicate that 236 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 37 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 193 motor vehicle fatalities, 126 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 17 motorcycle fatalities, eleven were not wearing helmets. Twenty-two pedestrians have been killed. Three fatalities involved ATV's and one involved a bicycle. A total of 46 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.

*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.

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Kentucky Insurance Agent, Joyce Pinson grew up near Pendleton County. She spent many hours with Pendleton County 4-H members, Paul Hall and Jill Conrad, who by the way got married and have their own insurance agency. The staff at Charlie Pinson Insuranceextends condolences to the famalies in Pendleton County.

Graduation...Looking for a job?

2008-05-05T09:54:00.005-04:00

Interviews and Good Impressions

With graduation around the corner, and the job market being rather tight new graduates need all the "edge" they can get to land a job. To me, some of these tips may seem obvious, but having interviewed many young hopefuls apparently they are not.

Send out resumes, and don't be afraid to follow up with a phone call.

Use your connections. Do you know someone who can help you land an interview?

Do your homework. Learn all you can about the company you are applying to.

Once you land an appointment, get there on time! I am appalled at how many potential employees show up late for appointments. If you are stuck in traffic, call your contact and explain. That is just common courtesy.

Dress appropriately and be pressed and clean. Many young people dress too casually for the position they are applying for. If you have doubts, go to the company and watch the folks come out either for lunch, or as they are leaving to go home. Pick your interview clothes accordingly.

Please, please refrain from perfume and aftershave. Many people are allergic. You want a lingering impression from your dazzling personality; not your trendiest fashion scent.

Before you walk in to the interview, take a deep breathe and relax. Force yourself to smile; after all your professional career is why you spent all that time in college. Be optimistic and excited!

Use your interviewers' name, when responding to questions. Look them in the eyes. Keep the interviewer engaged. You are just one in a crowded field. Take positive action to be remembered.

After the interview, jot off a hand written than you note to the person you interviewed with. Even if you don't get the job, they will remember you and perhaps give your name to someone else who has an opening...or remember you when another position is available. Build your contacts!

Graduating? Need Kentucky Short Term Health Insurance?

Charlie Pinson Insurance KY salutes all Kentucky graduates.

Graduation? Marriage? New Job? New Home? Call your Kentucky Insurance Agent

2008-05-01T15:53:00.009-04:00

If your life changes; your insurance agent needs to know

It's crazy how many people don't think to call their Kentucky insurance agent when there is a major life change. With graduation and wedding season upon us, I thought it would be timely to mention a few reasons to get in touch with us; or your existing insurance agent.

Graduation. If you are moving to a new location, your Kentucky auto insurance agent needs to know. You want important communications to keep up with you to avoid a lapse in coverage.

If you are coming off your parents' health insurance, and either have not found a job or need to get a policy to span the time between when your employee benefits kicks in you may need Kentucky Short Term Health Insurance.

Getting married? It pays to shop your coverages on Kentucky Car Insurance. Do not assume that adding a spouse to your existing policy is going to be the most economical. Shop with a Kentucky independent insurance agent. Independent agents offer comparisons with a number of companies; helping you find the best value for your money.

What about wedding insurance? Travelers Insurance recently introduced a wedding insurance product in Kentucky. Be sure to insure your big day!

Most importantly, do not forget about Kentucky Life Insurance. Young couples can purchase life insurance fairly inexpensively. Being married means being responsible. Set down with a Kentucky Insurance agent and explore your options.

New job? Will you be driving your car more? Will you be driving it less? Commuting miles are a factor with many Kentucky auto insurance companies. Let your agent know. If you have had a significant wage increase, you may need to evaluate your disability insurance.

New home? Obviously, your home owners policy will need to be updated. You may need an umbrella policy for additional liability, and maybe more life insurance to pay off the additional debt.

New motorcycle or toy? Please do not assume it is automatically covered under a homeowners policy. Be sure you check with your Kentucky insurance agent.

New baby? New grand baby? Life insurance on juveniles is very inexpensive. Call your agent for rates.

As many of you embark on "real jobs" outside the university community, and as you begin your life of wedded bliss, we wish you only the best. Find yourself a Kentucky Insurance agent who cares about you.

This posting is meant as a general guide to Kentucky Insurance. For legal and financial matters always consult a accountant and attorney. Joyce Pinson is a Kentucky Insurance agent. Get Kentucky insurance quotes.

Bulding Kentucky Small Business Goals The importance of a Mission Statement

2008-04-30T13:23:00.013-04:00

Thanks for asking

I received an inquiry from a college student in Colorado who works part time at a property casualty agency. He asked several questions about our mission statement.
With permission, I'll share the questions and my opinions and answers.

Here is our Kentucky insurance agent mission statement

Charlie Pinson Insurance is a service-oriented agency driven by sales excellence through client and vendor relations. Based in Pikeville Ky, our market area includes Kentucky and West Virginia. Our multi-line focus includes Commercial and Personal lines, with an emphasis on Kentucky health insurance.

As a family owned business, we believe in a family friendly work environment.
It is our goal to provide clients with the service they deserve and products to fulfill their needs. People make the difference at Charlie Pinson Insurance.

Here's the questions

1. Did you have a collaborative team to help you develop a mission statement? If so how was that team chosen?Yes, our statement was a collaborative effort. We established our goals of what we wanted to say; then assigned our copy writer (that's me) the task of sewing the patchwork of ideas together. Like your "scratch" start-up agency, we are small. It was a no-brainer to include all personnel.

2. What were some of the steps you used to arrive at your mission statement?First, we established WHY we even needed a mission statement. Our goal was and is, to define our identity for our clients as well as our carriers. Secondly, we were at a defining moment in our growth. Did we want to grow, or did we want to keep the status-quo? We opted for growth; but underlined the paths that had brought us success.

3. How long did this process take?We hammered this out in about a week. However, from time to time we revisit our mission statement. New products, new employees, and changes in the market influence who we are and who we strive to be.

4. What would you do differently in the process?Not a thing. We sat down and got it down. Don't over think. Don't get bogged down in committee. Put it in writing, and put it out there. It's not written in stone. Change is inevitable.

5. Do you feel like your employees are living the mission and vision of your agency? We continually strive to find balance between "service-oriented" and "sales excellence." We are getting there. We always focus on family, and clients.

Our defining statement, "People make the difference at Charlie Pinson" reflects a two-fold philosophy. We believe our staff is one of the best in Kentucky. We also believe our customers are not a policy number. So even though we do business on the internet, as well as in a brick and mortar location, our message is Kentucky people helping Kentucky people. That is what we are all about. So yes, we live the mission and we live the brand.

For my collegiate pen pal in Colorado, I hoped this helped. You may want to check out Troy Korsgaden's "Power Position your Agency." For insurance agents, I think it is one of the best resources for attracting, building, and retaining business. At the moment, my copy is at the house. However, if memory serves Troy had a great section on developing mission statements. I wish you well in your endeavours.

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Joyce Pinson is a Kentucky Health Insurance Agent. With a background in Agricultural Economics, Public Relations, and Marketing she wears many hats (most of them cute) at Charlie Pinson Insurance Agency and it's sister Kentucky Health Insurance Agency, Triple B Insurance.

Kentucky Insurance Agent's Musing the Market

2008-04-30T12:28:00.007-04:00

Weathering the Soft Market

Just so we are clear on this, I am a big Louisville Kentucky Derby Fan. I would rather be talking about Kentucky Derby than Kentucky Insurance this week. To solve this conflict, I blogged about the Derby over at Charlie's Kentucky Sports Blog.

So what about this soft market?

National Underwriter reported yesterday that the soft market could change quicker than expected. In talking with several of our insurance reps, we hear rumors the rates may begin going up again by fall. If one of the big three companies announces rate hikes, the others usually follow.

Being an established Kentucky Insurance agency, we have seen the market go through its cycles. We do not worry like we once did; it's like the weather in Kentucky. If you don't like it today; it will be different tomorrow! LOL

For young agents, soft markets can be tough. Have determination. Make a plan for success and hang in there. Eventually, the pendulum will swing back.

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On the week before Kentucky Derby, it's really hard to concentrate on Kentucky Insurance. Please give me credit for making the effort. If you need a Kentucky Insurance Agent, check out our agency at www.pinsoninsurance.com

Kentucky Motorcycle safety awareness April 21-May 2

2008-04-29T14:58:00.004-04:00

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet
Office of Public Affairs 502-564-3419

For Immediate Release
Media contact: Chuck Wolfe Chuck.Wolfe@ky.gov
Robin Jenkins Robin.Jenkins@ky.gov

Kentucky Motorcyclists and motorists encouraged to 'share the road'

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 18, 2008) — Motorcycle fatalities have doubled since 2003, and Kentucky’s fatality rate is now second-highest in the nation. One of every nine U.S. road fatalities involves motorcycle riders. The steady increase in fatalities over the past decade represents one of the commonwealth’s greatest highway safety challenges.

To increase awareness and safer driving practices, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is promoting motorcycle safety April 21-May 2. All travelers are encouraged to “share the road,” be courteous, and stay alert during the busy summer travel season.

“With warmer weather here, more motorcycles are back on the roads. Drivers of all vehicles need to be extra cautious,” said Secretary of Transportation Joe Prather. “Motorcyclists can be difficult to see, so it’s important that we all follow the rules of the road and stay alert.”

Motorcyclists are far more vulnerable to death or serious injury than motor vehicle passengers in the event of a crash. Research shows that approximately 80 percent of motorcycle crashes injure or kill a motorcycle rider, while only 20 percent of passenger car occupants are injured or killed. In fact, in terms of vehicle miles traveled, motorcyclists are 35 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a motor vehicle traffic crash.

Safe driving tips:

Remember to allow a motorcyclist the full lane width. Although it may seem as though there is enough room in a traffic lane for both an automobile and a motorcycle, the motorcycle needs the full room to maneuver safely —never try to share a lane;

Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic;

Remember that motorcyclists are often hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot or missed in a quick look due to their smaller size. Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic or proceeding at intersections.

Be aware that motorcycle signals usually are not self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed.

Remember that road conditions which are minor annoyances to passenger vehicles pose major hazards to motor¬cyclists. Be aware that motorcyclists may need to change speed or adjust their position within a lane suddenly in reaction to road and traffic conditions such as potholes, gravel, wet or slippery surfaces, pavement seams, railroad crossings, and grooved pavement.

Allow more following distance, three or four seconds, when following a motorcycle so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. And don’t tailgate. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.

Follow the rules of the road, be alert to other vehicles, and always wear your seat belt or DOT-compliant helmets and protective gear.

“Our message to all drivers is clear,” Prather said. “Make this the first year in recent years when motorcycle fatalities do not increase. Help to share in the responsibility and do your part to share the road with everyone.”

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Save the Delta Queen Tomorrows Great Steamboat Race may be her last!

2008-04-29T10:49:00.016-04:00

If you read my blog about theDelta Queen receiving an award this year, you know how much the Delta Queen means to me. Her appearances along the Ohio River communities are something to be treasured and protected. Encourage your representatives and senators to petition for her exemption from upcoming legislation. Otherwise, when the Delta Queen steams out of Louisville tomorrow night, amongst a huge fireworks display...it may be the last time the old girl will compete for the Golden Antlers. That is just too sad!

Delta Queen to be Feted on Steamboat Race Day

By: KDF Press Office
Posted: 4/2/2008 9:00:44 AM

The Kentucky Derby Festival is pleased to announce some special activities to celebrate what could be the Delta Queen’s last year to take part in the Kentucky Derby Festival Great Steamboat Race. The Delta Queen, based out of the port of Cincinnati, is in jeopardy of losing its exemption to make overnight passenger cruises and thus would not be able to participate in future Great Steamboat Races unless another exemption is granted by this November. The Delta Queen raced the hometown Belle of Louisville in the inaugural Great Steamboat Race in 1963 and has been a contestant almost every year since. To help commemorate the heritage of this historic vessel, the Derby Festival has planned the following activities on Great Steamboat Race Day, Wednesday, April 30:

A “Tea With the Queen” party will be held from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Chow Wagon at Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront. This family-oriented event will feature appearances by several former Kentucky Derby Festival Queens, dating back to 1957. They will be on hand to meet and greet the public and assist children with decorating tiaras and coronets that will be given out. A variety of refreshments will be served, including tea, punch, cookies and other finger foods. Derby Festival mascots Peggy and Gus will also be part of the festivities. Families may have their picture taken in front of the Delta Queen.

A Calliope Contest between the Belle of Louisville and the Delta Queen will be held at 3 p.m. along the East Wharf on Louisville’s waterfront. The musical contest, featuring traditional tunes played on the boats’ steam whistles, will be judged by Louisville native Patrick Henry Hughes, a local celebrity since appearing on ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” this spring.

The Great Steamboat Race Awards Ceremony will take place on the main stage at the Chow Wagon, beginning at approximately 7 p.m. The captain and crew of the winning vessel will receive the Golden Antlers and various dignitaries will make remarks. The winner of the Calliope Contest will receive an award created by Louisville Stoneware, presented by Patrick Henry Hughes.

A Mardi Gras party to celebrate the Delta Queen’s river heritage will take place at the Chow Wagon from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Zydeco Bon will provide musical entertainment and Mardi Gras-style beads will be distributed.

A fireworks show at 10 p.m. will accompany the Delta Queen’s departure from the wharf as she heads upriver to Cincinnati. All of the aforementioned Great Steamboat Race activities are free with a 2008 Pegasus Pin.

The Great Steamboat Race starts at the Clark Memorial Bridge and proceeds upriver to Six Mile Island before returning to the bridge for the finish. The 14-mile route takes about 1 ¼ - 1 ½ hours. The Belle of Louisville leads the annual racing series on the Ohio River to 22 to 19.

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Joyce Pinson, that's me, grew up along the Ohio River and spent many summer days watching the Delta Queen steam by. It would be a terribly shame to loose the legacy of the Queen. She is an important part of our Kentucky history.

Eleven Die On Kentucky Roadways Last Week (Apr. 14 through Apr. 20)

2008-04-28T09:31:00.003-04:00

Kentucky State Police Media Contact S. Bray 502.695.6353

Date of News Release: 04/21/08

(FRANKFORT, Ky.) - Preliminary statistics* indicate that eleven people died in ten separate crashes on Kentucky's roadways from Monday, Apr. 14 through Sunday, Apr. 20, 2008.

Nine of the fatalities were traveling in motor vehicles. Six of the victims were not wearing seat belts.

One fatality involved a motorcycle that occurred in Hardin county. The motorcyclist was exiting the Natcher Parkway onto southbound I-65 when he lost control of his Harley Davidson motorcycle with sidecar. After the motorcycle lost control, it struck a semi-truck before coming to a rest. Those on the motorcycle included a man, his son and the man's girlfriend. The man and his son walked away uninjured but the woman was killed in the crash. None of the victims were wearing helmets.

A fatal ATV crash occurred in Warren county and the driver was not wearing a helmet.

Single-fatality crashes occurred in Bracken, Carter, Graves, Leslie, Lyon, Warren and Whitley counties. A double-fatality crash occurred on KY 210 in Taylor county.

The fatality in Bracken county was the result of a motor vehicle collision with a railroad train on Mary Ingles Highway in Mt. Olivet.

Through April 20, preliminary statistics* indicate that 209 people have lost their lives on Kentucky roadways during 2008. This is 17 fewer than reported for this time period in 2007. Of the 175 motor vehicle fatalities, 115 victims were not wearing seat belts. Of the 13 motorcycle fatalities, eight were not wearing helmets. Twenty pedestrians have been killed. A total of 43 fatalities have resulted from crashes involving the suspected use of alcohol.

Citizens can contribute to Kentucky highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible.

*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas.

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As a Kentucky independent insurance agency, Charlie Pinson Insurance KY represents a number of carriers including Progressive, Safeco, AIG, Hartford, Farmers, Travellers and more. Click for Kentucky Auto Insurance Quotes.

Buying New Car? Think about Kentucky Insurance Costs before you buy

2008-04-25T10:35:00.008-04:00

Cutting New Car Costs in KY

(NAPS)—One way to avoid sticker shock or buyer’s remorse when purchasing a new car is to consider expenses you may encounter down the road. For instance, experts say that while most people anticipate the purchase price, taxes and registration fees associated with a vehicle, many forget that the Kentucky Insurance they need to protect their vehicle could come with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, there are ways to keep insurance costs down while maintaining the type and amount of coverage a new car typically requires.

To help consumers control car costs from sticker price to Kentucky insurance premiums—The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies and Charlie Pinson Insurance KY offers these tips:

Decide ahead of time how much money you can spend and what type of vehicle best suits your needs.

Research crash test and accident data. You can see crash test video and analysis from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety online or at progressive.com.

Check with several dealerships and get firm quotes in writing. Having quotes from several places can help you negotiate your best deal.

Shop around for financing. Rates vary between institutions.

Kentucky Insurance Costs

Before you buy a car, you should check into how much it would cost to insure. Try talking with a Kentucky independent insurance agent—it may save you some money. Unlike “captive” agents who represent only one company, Kentucky independent agents and brokers offer products from many different Kentucky insurance companies. That means more choice and more opportunities for you to find the best coverage and service at the right price.

Here are a few questions to ask a Kentucky independent insurance agent or broker.

Can I get any discounts for my car’s safety features? Your Kentucky auto insurance premium is based in part on the car’s value, the cost to repair it, its overall safety record and the likelihood of theft. Many insurers offer discounts for safety features that reduce the risk of injuries or theft.

How does this KY insurance company handle claims? Price isn’t the only factor to consider. It’s a good idea to deal with a company that will be there for you when you need it around the clock.

What coverage do I need? Your specific needs may vary by the age of the car, your personal situation and other factors.

Charlie Pinson Insurance KY will take time to answer your questions. Follow the link for a Kentucky Auto Insurance quote.

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With summer and Kentucky Derby season upon us, many people are shopping for new cars. Remember to factor in the costs of Kentucky Insurance when you are purchasing a new car. Prices for Kentucky car insurance vary by company. To shop multiple companies at one time select a Kentucky Independent Insurance Agency.

New Car for Graduation? Be a Smart Kentucky Consumer

2008-04-24T14:04:00.002-04:00

Seven Shopping Strategies For New Car Buyers

Congratulations Kentucky Graduates!

New car shopping can be a lot of fun, especially if you’re a car enthusiast. But others can find the experience stressful and tedious. Either way, there’s a lot to think about. According to a survey of car shoppers, overall purchase price is the most important factor when shopping for a new car (46 percent), followed by make and model (31 percent).

Safety and performance come in a distant third, tied at seven percent. But whether you’re turned on or turned off by the dizzying array of car choices, trim options, “expert” reviews, incentives and other deals, it definitely pays to approach car buying strategically.

So if you’re in the market for a new vehicle and you find yourself having trouble keeping a clear head, just keep these strategies, courtesy of Charlie Pinson Insurance in mind:

Decide how much money you can spend

Research crash tests

Shop around for financing

Test drive the car.

Check pricing

Get a firm quote, in writing

Inspect your new car

Finally, it’s important to consider the cost of Kentucky auto insurance, although it seems that few people realize that what they pay for insurance can add significantly to the vehicle’s total cost.

Wise car buyers know to shop around for Kentucky insurance and find out how costs compare. They also know to visit a Kentucky independent insurance agency – like Charlie Pinson Insurance. We can check with several companies to find the best combination of coverage and price.

To get a Progressive quote with Charlie Pinson Insurance, visitwww.pinsoninsurance.com

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Charlie Pinson Insurance is a Kentucky independent insurance agency representing many Kentucky Car Insurance companies including Progressive Insurance. In addition to online Kentucky Auto Insurance Quotes consumer education, claims contacts, and agency profiles are available. New college graduates might also need Kentucky Short Term Health Insurance when coming off a parents policy, or awaiting benefits from a new employer.

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