Louisville KY Diabetes Classes Begin July 8

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:

Class 1: July 8

Overview of Diabetes

Types of Diabetes

High and Low Blood Sugar

Sick Days


Class 2: July 15

Diet and Exercise


Class 3: July 22

Diabetes Pills, Insulin

Preventing Complications (Part 1)


Class 4: July 29

Preventing Complications (Part 2)

Foot and Skin Care

Glucose Monitoring and Standards of Care

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

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

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:

Ground beef - 160 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 seconds

Poultry and stuffed meats - 165 degrees F for 15 seconds

Pork products - 150 degrees F for 15 seconds

Reheating leftovers - 165 degrees F for 15 seconds

• 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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Home Fireworks are Risky

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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Wildfires possible Fourth of July Campfire Safety

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

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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Fourth of July in Kentucky State Parks

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

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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