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Kentuckians should continue to wear masks, maintain social distance, get vaccine when it’s their turn

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 29, 2021) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced the state’s positivity rate has declined to 8.75%.

“Our declining positivity rate shows that Kentuckians are continuing to make those small sacrifices we’ve been talking about all year in order to protect each other until we get enough vaccines for everyone who wants one,” said Gov. Beshear. “Wearing masks around people from different households, social distancing, washing their hands, staying home when they can and getting tested regularly. It’s the simple things you’re probably sick of hearing about by now that can make the biggest difference as we near the finish line.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29, Gov. Beshear reported the following COVID-19 numbers:

New cases today: 2,608
New deaths today: 57
Positivity rate: 8.75%
Total deaths: 3,668
Currently hospitalized: 1,505
Currently in ICU: 355
Currently on ventilator: 199

Top counties with the most positive cases today are: Jefferson, Fayette, Kenton, Daviess and Boone. Each of these counties reported 95 or more new cases; Jefferson County alone reported 360.

To see a list of those reported lost to the virus today, click here.

Kentucky Horse Park Regional Site Sign-Up (Currently Prioritizing 70+)
Kroger regional site appointments can be scheduled directly at Kroger.com/covidvaccine or call 866-211-5320; Kentuckians also can be directed to contact Kroger through the state’s vaccine.ky.gov website. This site will vaccinate 3,000 Kentuckians in the first week, approximately 600 people per day. New appointments are added to the website every day around 6 a.m.

Find a Vaccine Hotline
Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, said in addition to the Find a Vaccine website, a new hotline has been added to help Kentuckians who do not have access to the internet or computer or need additional assistance. The hotline – 855-598-2246 or TTY 855-326-4654 (for deaf or hard of hearing Kentuckians) – is available 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST Monday through Friday.

Evictions Moratorium Extended
On Jan. 20, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Rochelle P. Walensky, MD, MPH, extended a federal moratorium on evictions until at least March 31. Following the CDC’s order, today, Gov. Beshear signed an executive order extending the state’s moratorium on evictions to at least March 31.

Unemployment Insurance Update
Yesterday, Amy Cubbage, general counsel for Gov. Beshear, updated Kentuckians on Mixed Earners Unemployment Compensation, 1099-G documents, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance back pay process, the deadline to spend all funds on unemployment insurance debit cards and a new “What You Need to Know” graphic to learn more about how to keep receiving benefits, or begin receiving benefits for the first time, under the federal Continued Assistance Act. To learn more, see yesterday’s release.

More Information
To view the full daily report, incidence rate map, information on testing locations, vaccines, contact tracing, school reports and guidance, guidance for health care providers and the White House Coronavirus Task Force reports for Kentucky and more, visit kycovid19.ky.gov.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 27, 2021) – On Wednesday, Gov. Andy Beshear said the state’s positivity rate declined again. He also reminded Kentuckians that the federal government will increase each state’s supply of COVID-19 vaccines and guarantee a minimum supply for three consecutive weeks.

“The top-line message on vaccines is the same as it has been: Our one issue is supply. If we had three issues, they would be supply, supply and supply. We’ll figure out the distribution and we’re going to continue to improve. Our only limitation at this point is the number of doses we can get from the federal government,” said Gov. Beshear.

The Governor said the state had three specific challenges, all related to a limited supply of the vaccine. First, the small number of doses the state receives compared to the very large number of health care providers who would like to distribute it. Second, the state does not have enough vaccine doses or small enough vaccine batches to distribute them equitably on a county by county basis – instead the state is distributing equitably by region. Finally, as the state moves into larger and larger phases, the type of infrastructure needed from providers to accommodate patient needs changes.

Gov. Beshear said tomorrow he will announce more information on the state’s regional vaccine partners and the first Kroger Health regional vaccination center.

Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH), spoke to Kentuckians about the implications of the United Kingdom (UK) COVID-19 variant, after two cases of the strain were confirmed in Kenton County yesterday. He also encouraged individuals to keep getting tested for COVID-19 and reminded them it was normal if they experienced mild side effects after the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

“The vast majority of COVID-19 mutations have no clinical meaning, they don’t functionally have an impact on us if we’re infected. But some of the mutations do cause the virus to be more effective,” said Dr. Stack. “The COVID-19 B117 variant, the one we believe was first found in the United Kingdom, that variant is more contagious. If you get exposed to it, you’re more likely to be infected, so that means it can infect more people more easily.

“It’s not more dangerous or lethal for the person who gets it, but because it spreads to more people more easily, you could have more people who get sick and die. It is more important than ever that we wear our masks, watch our distance, wash your hands and stay at home and get tested when you are sick.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 27, Gov. Beshear reported the following COVID-19 numbers:

New cases today: 2,424
New deaths today: 47
Positivity rate: 9.35%
Total deaths: 3,542
Currently hospitalized: 1,597
Currently in ICU: 387
Currently on ventilator: 225

Top counties with the most positive cases today are: Jefferson, Fayette, Daviess, Kenton, Boone and Warren. Each of these counties reported 75 or more new cases; Jefferson County alone reported 330.

Statewide Testing Positivity Rate: 9.35%.

Deaths: We are sad to report 4 new deaths today. We have experienced a total of 320 deaths resulting in a 1.82% mortality rate (about 1 in 55) among known cases. This compares with a 1% mortality rate at the state level, and a 1.67% mortality rate at the national level. Our hearts and prayers go out to all the families and friends who have lost loved ones.

Hospitalizations: We presently have 64 cases in the hospital. This is 3 more than what we reported yesterday. We have had a total of 995 hospitalizations resulting in a 5.66% hospitalization rate (about 1 in 18) among known cases. The state hospitalization rate is 4.56%. The latest data shows that 95.56% of Lake Cumberland’s ICU beds are filled, and 35% of ventilator capacity is being utilized.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 17,565 cases since the onset of the outbreak. This means that 8.41% of our total population have been a confirmed case. However, we do not know how many additional people may have had COVID-19 and were either asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic and never tested.

Released (Not contagious) Cases: We released 103 cases today from isolation. Released cases include: Adair: 4; Casey: 7; Clinton: 3; Cumberland: 7; Green: 5; McCreary: 4; Pulaski: 32; Russell: 11; Taylor: 22; and, Wayne: 8. In all, we have released 93.6% of our total cases.

Active (Current) Cases: We added 27 more cases today than we had deceased and/or released cases. This leaves us with 811 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. On 12/10/2020 we were at our peak number of active cases, 1,341.

Where Did Cases Visit Prior to Isolation: The most common places cases visited prior to isolation are (in descending order): Businesses, Schools, Family, and Medical Facilities. We have had 66 cases tied to Christmas gaterings, 43 tied to Thanksgiving gatherings, and 15 tied to New Year’s events. Of our active cases, 9% can not be tied back to another known case (community-spread cases).

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 134 today: Adair: 11; Casey: 20; Clinton: 7; Cumberland: 3; Green: 5; McCreary: 15; Pulaski: 33; Russell: 10; Taylor: 20; and, Wayne: 10. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.007. This means our total case count is projected to double every 100.83 days. The most new cases we ever added in a single day was on 12/30/2020 when we added 301 cases. Today’s new cases include locally are:

Adair: A 33-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic;
Adair: A 22-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic;
Adair: A 31-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic;
Adair: A 28-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic;
Adair: A 12-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic;
Adair: A 7-year-old female who is self-isolated, Asymptomatic;
Adair: A 26-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic;
Adair: A 32-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic;
Adair: A 56-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic;
Adair: A 12-year-old male who is self-isolated, Asymptomatic;
Adair: A 30-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic;

Governor, state officials also update Kentuckians on vaccines, unemployment insurance

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 25, 2021) – On Monday, Gov. Andy Beshear announced Kentucky’s COVID-19 positivity rate has fallen below 10% for the first time since Dec. 31. Today’s new case report was also the lowest for a Monday since Jan. 4.

“Our cases are way too high, but I think when you look at this it shows how important the steps we took are and how important the ability to be able to take steps is when you are facing exponential growth in cases,” said Gov. Beshear. “We believe that this decline is real, not just a result of maybe fewer tests happening, because we know the positivity rate is also going down.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. Monday, Jan. 25, Gov. Beshear reported the following COVID-19 numbers:

New cases today: 1,268
New deaths today: 39
Positivity rate: 9.93%
Total deaths: 3,460
Currently hospitalized: 1,539
Currently in ICU: 374
Currently on ventilator: 203

Top counties with the most positive cases today are: Jefferson, Fayette, Calloway and Kenton. Each of these counties reported 40 or more new cases.

To see a list of those reported lost to the virus today, click here.

Vaccine Update
Today, Gov. Beshear said Kentucky is working to become the fastest state to vaccinate school staff so that all schools can safely reopen for in-person classes.

The Governor announced that Kentucky has administered 88% of all initial vaccine doses sent to the state’s vaccination program.[1]

“Just last week, we administered the most doses we ever have, including second doses – 93,499 – and vaccinated the most people we ever have with initial doses – 82,511 people,” said Gov. Beshear. “The problem here is supply, supply, supply. We can vaccinate 250,000 Kentuckians per week, and we’re still building up our capabilities, but we’re only getting 56,000 new doses per week from the federal government.

“Fortunately, we believe that all long-term care facilities, skilled nursing homes and assisted living facilities have received their first doses of the vaccine. If there is any remaining facility that has not received it, call the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and we will make sure to raise that with CVS or Walgreens so we can correct it immediately.”

This Thursday, the Governor will provide an update on how Kentuckians in Phase 1A, 1B and 1C can sign up for an appointment at new regional Kroger vaccination centers as well as other partner locations.

Unemployment Insurance Update
Today, Amy Cubbage, general counsel for Gov. Beshear, updated Kentuckians on total unemployment insurance (UI) claims filed, total claims pending, $300 payments, 1099s, UI payment debit cards and fraud reporting.

Cubbage said there have been 1,542,008 unemployment claims, including duplicates, filed in Kentucky since the beginning of the pandemic. There are 40,748 pending claims with no fraud or identity issues. In total, there are approximately 665,000 unique claims representing about 600,000 claimants.

Cubbage said if claimants payments are delayed because they had to set up a new Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) claim, they will still get $300 for all the weeks they qualify for PUA.

“Office of Unemployment Insurance (OUI) programmers are working on programming for how PUA claimants with backdated weeks claim those weeks in an expedited manner, and I’ll have an update regarding how that programming in our next update,” Cubbage said.

“We have received questions about the amounts listed on the 1099s our 2020 claimants are receiving. Multiple claimants have been confused by the total compensation amounts listed in box 1,” Cubbage added. “Please note that the amount listed on box 1 is the pre-tax amount of compensation you were entitled to. If you chose to have income tax withheld, the amounts you received either through a direct deposit or on your prepaid card will be after-tax amounts. Kentuckians with questions on this topic can email KYOU1099@ky.gov beginning tomorrow.

“If you are still receiving payments on a debit card, payments to that card will end this week. You will have until the end of February to spend any balance on that card. If you do not update your profile with a bank account before your next payment issues after the end of the debit card program, you will get a paper check. Please make sure we have your accurate mailing address uploaded if you will be getting a paper check. For new claimants who filed after Jan. 1, 2021, you should have only had the option for a direct deposit or paper check. This only affects those who chose a prepaid card prior during 2020.

“Finally, I want to warn Kentuckians that we have had an uptick of fraudulent claims. If you receive a letter from OUI regarding a claim for yourself or one of your employees and you or the employee did not file a claim, please email UIFraud@ky.gov and we will flag the claim and make sure nothing is paid. If you are concerned about identity theft, please check out the resources on the Kentucky Attorney General’s website.”

Utility Assistance for Kentucky Families
Today, Gov. Beshear announced up to $38 million is available to local governments to help Kentuckians with overdue utility bills in their jurisdiction. Each unit of local government may request up to $200,000 for assistance in their communities. To learn more, see the full release.

Appalachian Regional Commission Grants
Today, Gov. Beshear announced $2.5 million in Appalachian Regional Commission grants for two projects in Eastern Kentucky that will upgrade waterlines, create jobs and build a better Kentucky. To learn more, see the full release.

Kentucky Broadband Speed Test
Lt. Gov. Coleman reminded families to take the Kentucky Broadband Speed Test, a crowd-sourcing project that will gather data from Kentuckians needed to expand internet home access for distance learning, telework and telehealth. Kentuckians can take the free, anonymous speed test from Jan. 19 to Feb. 18 here. To learn more, see the full release.

“Gov. Beshear and I are committed to closing the digital divide for Kentucky families,” said Lt. Gov. Coleman. “If you don’t have internet access at home, we definitely need you to take part in this test! You can connect on any wireless network – at a business, local library or at a friend or family member’s house. You’ll choose ‘enter an address with no available service’ and after entering your home address you’ll identify the reason you do not have access at home.”

Memorial
On Friday, Gov. Beshear was joined by First Lady Britainy Beshear and Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman for a memorial flag ceremony on the Capitol grounds to commemorate the more than 3,300 Kentuckians lost to the coronavirus pandemic. To learn more, see the full release and video.

Today, the Governor recognized one of those Kentuckians, Tara Mahone.

“The Kentucky Court of Justice lost one of its own to COVID-19 when Tara Mahone passed away Jan. 15, 2021. Tara worked with young people as a court designated worker for Christian County,” said Gov. Beshear. “She was full of energy and had a smile that made you feel at ease. She exemplified service above self, especially for those in need. Her passion was to mentor the youth of her community.

“Her husband, Keith Mahone, said he was proud of all the work Tara had done ministering to youth and families. He said he was at peace knowing she was going to heaven and he will see her again. Tara will be inducted into the Department of Family and Juvenile Services’ Hall of Fame by the Administrative Office of the Courts.”

More Information
To view the full daily report, incidence rate map, information on testing locations, vaccines, contact tracing, school reports and guidance, guidance for health care providers and the White House Coronavirus Task Force reports for Kentucky and more, visit kycovid19.ky.gov.

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[1] Long-term care residents and staff in Kentucky are vaccinated through a separate, federal program run through CVS and Walgreens.

Funding will help Kentuckians offset the financial impact of COVID-19

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 25, 2021) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced up to $38 million is available to local governments to help Kentuckians with overdue utility bills in their jurisdiction. Each unit of local government may request up to $200,000 for assistance in their communities.

“Even with our victory over COVID-19 coming into sight, times are still tough for our families,” said Gov. Beshear. “We are grateful to be able to provide these funds, because they will ensure many Kentuckians won’t have to make the impossible choice between feeding their family and keeping the lights on.”

The Department for Local Government (DLG) will administer the funding from the Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Response (CDBG-CV) program established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

“We want to get this assistance out the door as quickly as possible, because protecting Kentuckians is our number one priority,” said DLG Commissioner Dennis Keene. “We encourage local governments to submit applications as quickly as possible.”

To apply, local governments must submit an application to DLG. If approved, local governments must then partner with a community action agency to assist with funding administration. To simplify the process and fulfill that need, DLG has partnered with Kentucky’s 15 Area Development Districts (ADD) to assist units of local government, local nonprofit community service providers and eligible Kentuckians with their applications and administering funds.

Households are eligible for up to $250 per month for six consecutive months if:

• They live in a city or county approved for funding;
• Have been financially impacted by COVID-19;
• Are struggling to pay water, sewer, electric, gas or other heating and cooling bills; and
• Have received notice for disconnect between January 21, 2020, and present day and/or up to two months following.

Once a household’s application is approved, the local nonprofit community service provider will transfer funds directly to a utility provider on their behalf.

Local governments can apply for CDBG-CV funds now by completing the application on DLG’s website.

Kentuckians should contact their local government or ADD for more information on CDBG-CV funds in their area.

This aid follows a previous fund set up by Gov. Beshear. In October 2020, the Governor created the Team Kentucky Healthy at Home Utility Relief Fund by dedicating $15 million of federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act funding. This fund is estimated to have helped over 63,000 individuals in more than 26,000 households through December of last year.

A third round of utility relief is forthcoming as Congress passed the Omnibus Appropriations and Coronavirus Relief Package, H.R. 133 (“the Consolidated Appropriations Act”), which was signed into law Dec. 27, 2020. That package is expected to provide nearly $297 million to Kentuckians to protect tenants from evictions and utility disconnections, through the Team Kentucky Healthy at Home Eviction and Utility Relief Fund. More information on this program will be coming within the next few weeks.

More Information
Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov and the state’s response to COVID-19 at kycovid19.ky.gov.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 22, 2021) – On Friday, Gov. Andy Beshear announced the state’s COVID-19 positivity rate has fallen to the lowest rate since Jan. 2.

“Folks, there’s a pretty simple reason why I think our cases are declining, and that’s that I see you all doing the hard work,” said Gov. Beshear. “I see people wearing masks now more than ever and engaging in social distancing when they can. Keep it up. We are going to beat this virus in 2021. We’ve just got to protect everyone until we get there.”

Earlier in the day, he visited Broadbent Arena where 1,200 Jefferson County Public Schools teachers and staff were vaccinated today. Kentucky is among only 19 U.S. states – and is the only state in the region – that continues to prioritize vaccinations for all K-12 staffers. In addition, Kentucky is the only state with plans to finish the first round of these vaccinations by the end of the first week in February. To learn more, see the full release.

He was also joined by First Lady Britainy Beshear and Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman for a memorial flag ceremony on the Capitol grounds to commemorate the more than 3,300 Kentuckians lost to the coronavirus pandemic. To learn more, see the full release.

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 22, Gov. Beshear reported the following COVID-19 numbers:

New cases today: 2,756
New deaths today: 36
Positivity rate: 10.80%
Total deaths: 3,337
Currently hospitalized: 1,561
Currently in ICU: 387
Currently on ventilator: 195

Top counties with the most positive cases today are: Jefferson, Fayette, Bullitt, Warren and Daviess. Each of these counties reported 95 or more new cases; Jefferson County alone reported 445.

To see a list of those reported lost to the virus today, click here.

More Information
To view the full daily report, incidence rate map, information on testing locations, vaccines, contact tracing, school reports and guidance, guidance for health care providers and the White House Coronavirus Task Force reports for Kentucky and more, visit kycovid19.ky.gov.

Governor, First Lady and Lt. Gov. Coleman place flags during memorial ceremony at Capitol

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 22, 2021) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear was joined by First Lady Britainy Beshear and Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman for a memorial flag ceremony on the Capitol grounds to commemorate the more than 3,300 Kentuckians lost to the coronavirus pandemic.

“Every flag you see represents a real Kentuckian, one who was and is loved by their families and friends, who meant something to the communities in which they lived,” Gov. Beshear said. “Each and every loss is singular and heartbreaking.”

The Governor and Lieutenant Governor spoke briefly before they and the First Lady placed the last of 3,301 flags, one for each Kentuckian whose death has been attributed to COVID-19.

Gov. Beshear said the flag he placed was in honor of front-line health care workers lost to the coronavirus, including Dr. Rebecca Shadowen, a physician and infectious disease specialist in Bowling Green who was just 62 when she died of the coronavirus in early September of last year.

“I will be placing this flag in the ground for Dr. Rebecca Shadowen, and all of our health care heroes who have given their own lives during this pandemic to save others,” Gov. Beshear said. “This noble sacrifice cannot and will not be forgotten.”

The First Lady’s flag honors every parent, child and family member who has lost a loved one to this virus, including the Rev. Robert “Bob” Duggan, a husband, dad, grandad and longtime Presbyterian and United Methodist minister who was 81 when he died of COVID-19.

Lt. Gov. Coleman placed her flag in honor of educators lost to COVID-19.

“We grieve for the more than 3,000 Kentuckians who lost their lives to this virus. In a state as tight-knit as ours, one loss is too many; 3,000 is utterly devastating,” said Lt. Gov. Coleman. “I am dedicating my flag to the education community including Simone Parker, who taught science at Trigg County High School for 19 years and passed away two weeks ago.”

Also taking part in Friday’s ceremony were the Rev. Tonya Kenner of First United Methodist Church in Frankfort, who offered an opening prayer, and soloist Keith Dean, who sang the Gospel hymn “His Eye Is on the Sparrow.”

Gov. Beshear stressed that despite the virus’ dark toll, Kentucky has fared far better than most states due to decisive action and the compassion and sacrifices of people across the commonwealth. He noted that Kentucky currently is administering the safe and effective vaccines faster than the federal government is providing new doses to the state.

The Governor said that until more people are vaccinated, we remain in a dangerous time. The best way to honor those we have lost, he said, was to protect others.

“Let us also show them the respect they deserve by continuing to do what is right to protect those around us,” Gov. Beshear said. “Masking up, maintaining social distance, avoiding crowds and getting the vaccine when your turn comes around: All of these measures are desperately needed and show that you care about your fellow Kentuckians and honor these terrible losses.”

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 21, 2021) — Kentucky’s seasonally adjusted preliminary December 2020 unemployment rate was 6 percent, according to the Kentucky Center for Statistics (KYSTATS), an agency within the Education and Workforce Development Cabinet (EWDC).

The preliminary December 2020 jobless rate was up 0.3 percentage points from November 2020 and up 1.7 percentage points from the 4.3 percent recorded for the state one year ago.

The U.S. seasonally adjusted jobless rate for December 2020 was 6.7 percent, unchanged from November 2020, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Labor force statistics, including the unemployment rate, are based upon estimates from the Current Population Survey of households. The survey is designed to measure trends in the number of people working, and includes jobs in agriculture and individuals who are self-employed.

Kentucky’s civilian labor force was 2,017,235 in December 2020, a decrease of 1,067 individuals from November 2020. The number of people employed in December fell by 6,835, while the number unemployed rose by 5,768.

In a separate federal survey of business establishments that excludes jobs in agriculture and people who are self-employed, Kentucky’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm employment dropped by 9,100 jobs in December 2020 compared to November 2020. Kentucky’s employment was down 100,900 jobs or 5.2 percent compared to December 2019.

“Most of December’s employment decline was in accommodations and food service businesses, which operated under additional restrictions to help slow rising COVID-19 rates during the week December employment data was collected,” said University of Kentucky’s Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) Director Mike Clark, Ph.D.

“While total employment was down, there were several bright spots in the jobs data. Employment in construction remains up compared to last year due to strong demand for housing; manufacturing employment has gained momentum over the past couple of months; and some of Kentucky’s sectors are finally showing employment growth over last year including retail trade, and arts, entertainment, and recreation,” he said.

Nonfarm data is provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Current Employment Statistics program. According to the survey, employment increased for five of Kentucky’s 11 major nonfarm North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) job sectors in December 2020 while five declined and one was unchanged.

The trade, transportation and utilities sector rose by 6,400 jobs in December 2020 or 1.6 percent. Employment in retail trade jumped by 4,200 jobs in December. Transportation, warehousing and utilities subsector posted an additional 2,100 positions. The wholesale trade subsector added 100 jobs from November to December. Since December 2019, employment in this sector was down 1,400 positions or 0.4 percent.

“Retail trade showed strong growth in December as consumers returned to stores for holiday shopping,” said Clark. “While retailers have not quite reached the employment levels just before the pandemic, December’s retail employment was higher than December 2019.”

Kentucky’s manufacturers added 3,000 positions from November 2020 to December 2020 or 1.2 percent. Employment was up 1,600 jobs among durable goods manufacturers and up 1,400 jobs for non-durable goods manufacturers. Kentucky’s manufacturing employment was down 7,300 jobs, or 2.9 percent, since December 2019.

Employment in Kentucky’s educational and health services sector increased by 1,800 jobs in December 2020. Employment in the educational services subsector contracted by 1,800 positions. The health care and social assistance subsector gained 3,600 positions in December. Since last December, the sector was down 11,300 positions or 4 percent.

Kentucky’s construction sector rose by 600 jobs in December 2020, a 0.7 percent increase from November. The construction sector was up 2,400 jobs or 3 percent from one year ago.

Kentucky’s mining and logging sector added 200 jobs from November 2020 to December 2020 and was down 1,500 jobs or 16.5 percent from a year ago.

Employment in the information services sector did not change from November to December. The industries in this sector include traditional publishing as well as software publishing; motion pictures and broadcasting; and telecommunications. This sector was down 3,400 jobs or 16.1 percent from a year ago.

The financial activities sector lost 100 positions in December 2020. The finance and insurance subsector reported 200 fewer jobs while the real estate, rental and leasing subsector added 100 jobs from November 2020 to December 2020. The sector lost 4,000 positions compared to last December or 4.3 percent.

Employment in the other services sector fell by 1,300 jobs in December. This sector was down 100 positions since December 2019. The other services sector includes repairs and maintenance, personal care services and religious organizations.

The professional and business services sector dropped by 2,100 jobs or 1.1 percent in December 2020. The administrative and support and waste management subsector fell by 1,600 positions. The management of companies subsector declined by 100 jobs. Employment in the professional, scientific and technical services subsector was down 400 jobs. Employment in this sector was down 21,900 or 10.2 percent since December 2019.

The government sector reduced payrolls by 5,800 jobs from November 2020 to December 2020. While federal government employment was unchanged from November to December, state government employment was down 3,100 jobs and local government employment dropped by 2,700 jobs. Total government employment was down 26,100 positions or 8.4 percent since December 2019.

Kentucky’s leisure and hospitality sector fell by 11,800 positions from November 2020 to December 2020 for a decrease of 6.2 percent. This sector contracted by 26,300 jobs or 12.8 percent compared to December 2019. The accommodations and food services subsector reduced payrolls by 12,700 positions during December while the arts, entertainment and recreation subsector added 900 positions.

“Cold weather and restrictions on indoor dining to help slow rising COVID-19 cases reduced capacity and contributed to lower employment at Kentucky’s restaurants and drinking places in December,” said Clark.

Civilian labor force statistics include nonmilitary workers and unemployed Kentuckians who are actively seeking work. They do not include unemployed Kentuckians who have not looked for employment within the past four weeks.

Kentucky’s statewide unemployment rate and employment levels are seasonally adjusted. Employment statistics undergo sharp fluctuations due to seasonal events, such as weather changes, harvests, holidays and school openings and closings. Seasonal adjustments eliminate these influences and make it easier to observe statistical trends. However, due to the small sample size, county unemployment rates are not seasonally adjusted.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 20, 2021) – On Wednesday, Gov. Andy Beshear said the state’s COVID-19 positivity rate has stayed below 12% for the fifth day in a row.

“While there is still so much pain and darkness in our commonwealth due to this pandemic, we are beginning to see the light ahead of us,” said Gov. Beshear. “This plateauing positivity rate is great news for Kentucky, especially as we continue to bring more of these live-saving vaccines to our people each week.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20, Gov. Beshear reported the following COVID-19 numbers:

New cases today: 3,433
New deaths today: 49
Positivity rate: 11.29%
Total deaths: 3,243
Currently hospitalized: 1,678
Currently in ICU: 399
Currently on ventilator: 205

Governor also vetoes unconstitutional bills that risk Kentucky lives during a pandemic

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 19, 2021) – On Tuesday, Gov. Andy Beshear updated Kentuckians on increased funding for Kentucky hospitals, COVID-19 cases and COVID-19 vaccines as well as bills he is vetoing because they are unconstitutional and a threat to Kentucky lives during this pandemic.

“I come to you today as our country passes a grim milestone of losing 400,000 Americans to the coronavirus. That is a staggering loss. It’s so large it’s hard to actually see it in your mind, to process how big it is,” said Gov. Beshear. “You could fill up both UK and UofL stadiums three-and-a-quarter times and that would represent the number of lives, the number of people that we have lost in America.”

The Governor said 332,450 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been received in Kentucky and 221,440 doses have been administered. Of the doses administered, 36,970 have been given to long-term care facility residents and staff.

More than 83,000 doses were administered from Jan. 10 to 16, about 16,000 more than were administered the week prior. Of the doses administered, 209,736 were first doses and 11,704 were booster doses.

The Governor said Kentucky is now administering the vaccine faster than the federal government is sending it new doses. The state expects to receive 56,175 new doses next week. Kentucky has been recognized as one of only nine states that have administered more than half of the doses they’ve received.

“Right now we can’t guarantee that every pharmacy across Kentucky gets vaccine, because we don’t have enough supply. That’s why today I formally requested from Operation Warp Speed that the federal government double the amount of vaccine we receive every week,” said Gov. Beshear. “We are proving we can get it out there. We are proving that we are efficient. We are proving that we can get it into people’s arms.”

“I am confident that in Kentucky if we had unlimited vaccine, we could easily immunize 200,000 to 250,000 people a week, if not more today, if we had enough vaccine,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health. “We get about 54,000 doses per week approximately, and that’s all we can do.”

The Governor also announced Kentucky hospitals will receive an additional $800 million to $1 billion annually to help advance the quality of care of Medicaid members and provide a stable base for hospitals that will extend beyond the financial challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander said, “This is an opportunity for Kentucky to really take a step forward in coverage for our fellow Kentuckians, for improving the quality of care and for paying hospitals what we should.”

Kentucky Hospital Association President and CEO Nancy Galvagni, said: “Our hospitals are proud to offer high-quality care close to home. And this program that CMS approved will help them continue to meet that goal. This enhanced funding will be crucial to our hospitals for upgrading equipment, for retaining their employees and covering the cost of providing quality care for their communities.”

To learn more, see the full release.

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 19, Gov. Beshear reported the following COVID-19 numbers:

New cases today: 2,250
New deaths today: 27
Positivity rate: 11.55%
Total deaths: 3,194
Currently hospitalized: 1,633
Currently in ICU: 442
Currently on ventilator: 208

Top counties with the most positive cases today are: Jefferson, Campbell, Warren, Fayette and Kenton. Each of these counties reported 80 or more new cases.

To see a list of those reported lost to the virus today, click here.

Memorial
“Today we are sharing the story of Josephine Hollkamp of Louisville, who passed away on Jan. 5 from COVID-19. Her granddaughter Shannon reached out to us, sharing how her grandmother was a fighter, but unfortunately she did not survive the virus, passing away at 97.

“Shannon told stories of how her grandmother cared for her daily after school, and how she was always amazed by the love between her grandmother and her grandfather. Even in the little mundane parts of their day, love was always there. They were married for 53 years, and the family finds comfort knowing they are now reunited.

“Josephine lived a long and amazing life, full of travel, quilting and cooking. She always gave to others, volunteering her time with both her church and with Little Sisters of the Poor for 25 years. But more than anything, she loved being with her family. Josephine had nine children, more than 20 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren. She always made sure to say ‘I love you’ every day, and the family never left without a hug or a kiss.

“Shannon and their family ask us to mask up, if not for ourselves, for those around us. In honor of Josephine, let’s spread love by doing our part to keep those like her safe.”

Gov. Beshear Vetoes Unconstitutional Bills That Would Put Kentucky Lives at Risk
Today, Gov. Beshear vetoed five bills, including House Bill 1 and Senate Bill 1, allowing him to continue taking bold, effective actions to save lives, and ensuring future governors have the tools they need to address new emergencies quickly.

The Governor said his efforts to stop COVID-19 are widely supported by Kentuckians: 86% support asking people to stay at home and avoid gathering in groups; 78% support limiting restaurants to carry-out only; and 73% support prohibiting K-12 schools from teaching in-person.

“What this says is no matter what party you’re in, no matter who you voted for for president, the people of Kentucky support the ability to take steps necessary to protect us,” said Gov. Beshear.

Normalized by population, Kentucky has a lower number of deaths than all neighboring states. The state has crushed or plateaued three different surges in cases. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) consistently has backed the effectiveness of Gov. Beshear’s restrictions aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19 in restaurants and bars, gyms, schools and other venues.

Gov. Beshear also reminded Kentuckians that even the director of the CDC, Dr. Robert Redfield, advised against any bill that writes public health guidance into law.

“I want to make it clear that CDC guidance should not be interpreted as regulation; rather, they are meant as recommendations. It should be used in consideration for specific state and/or local regulations, but this guidance is meant to be flexible and adaptable,” Dr. Redfield said. “It is not meant to be prescriptive or interpreted as standards that can be regulated.”

These bills are unconstitutional: the Kentucky Supreme Court ruled “our examination of the Kentucky Constitution causes us to conclude the emergency powers the Governor has exercised are executive in nature, never raising a separation of powers issue in the first instance.”

“This is a way of saying under the Kentucky Constitution, this is the executive branch’s job,” said Gov. Beshear. “I certainly hope we wouldn’t think that in the middle of a battle, in the middle of a war, you would have a legislative branch debate and vote on tactics – that’s just not how the Constitution is set up.”

The Governor said Senate Bill 1 interferes with the Governor’s power and constitutional responsibility to confront emergencies; allows the General Assembly to exercise power outside of session and forces the Governor to call it back into session in the event of an emergency; and, the bill provides an inferior executive officer, the Attorney General, the power to approve or disapprove of the Governor’s decisions.

The Governor also said Senate Bill 1 would also be costly for taxpayers. If the General Assembly approved the Governor’s emergency action in 30-day increments, with no Saturday meeting days and five days to pass a bill or resolution through both chambers, special sessions would cost $65,000 per day. That would be $325,000 per five-day session and $3.25 million for 10 sessions.

The Governor emphasized that House Bill 5 is unconstitutional as well, because it would: “…prevent [the Governor] from executing new laws passed by the General Assembly or the United States Congress that require new or different governmental structures to carry out.  It would also disqualify the Commonwealth from federal grants that may require a new office or commission.”

The Governor said moving forward he would be working with lawmakers on a resolution to the legislation.

More Information
To view the full daily report, incidence rate map, information on testing locations, vaccines, contact tracing, school reports and guidance, guidance for health care providers and the White House Coronavirus Task Force reports for Kentucky and more, visit kycovid19.ky.gov.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 15, 2021) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear updated Kentuckians about COVID-19 case information and vaccines, as well as security measures at the State Capitol this weekend.

“These case numbers are still far too high, but there is hopeful news today, too. We are on track as we ramp up to meet our goal of administering 90% of all vaccine received within seven days of arrival,” said Gov. Beshear. “In fact, last week we administered more doses of vaccine than we received.”

The Governor said 325,625 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been received in Kentucky and 190,547 doses have been administered. Of those doses, 31,158 have been administered to long-term care facility residents and staff.

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 15, Gov. Beshear reported the following COVID-19 numbers:

New cases today: 3,955
New deaths today: 19
Positivity rate: 12.09%
Total deaths: 3,061
Currently hospitalized: 1,644
Currently in ICU: 392
Currently on ventilator: 203

Top counties with the most positive cases today are: Jefferson, Oldham, Fayette, Kenton and Boone. Each of these counties reported 160 or more new cases; Jefferson County alone reported 584.

To see a list of those reported lost to the virus today, click here.

Security at Capitol Increased for Next Several Days
Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced heightened security measures around the Kentucky State Capitol grounds in Frankfort following the Jan. 6 attack by domestic terrorists on the U.S. Capitol.

To learn more, see the full release and this video.

More Information
To view the full daily report, incidence rate map, information on testing locations, vaccines, contact tracing, school reports and guidance, guidance for health care providers and the White House Coronavirus Task Force reports for Kentucky and more, visit kycovid19.ky.gov.

Kentuckians can listen to translated audio summaries (created in partnership with RadioLex) of the Governor’s Jan. 14 update on unemployment insurance, the state’s partnership with Kroger to expand vaccinations in the commonwealth and more here: Chinese, English, French, Japanese, Korean, Russian and Spanish.

Governor, state officials also update Kentuckians on unemployment insurance, vaccine progress; state surpasses 3,000 COVID-19 deaths

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 14, 2021) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear, state officials and Kroger leadership announced a new partnership to significantly increase the speed of COVID-19 vaccinations across the commonwealth.

The first Kroger regional, drive-through vaccination sites will open the week of Feb. 1 for Kentuckians in Phase 1A, 1B and 1C. For more details on who is included in each phase, click here. On Jan. 28, the Governor said more details would be announced on site locations and how to sign up.

“Last year, when we were wondering when anybody who wanted a COVID-19 test would be able to get one, Kroger made that a reality. That testing partnership created the national model for surge testing,” said Gov. Beshear. “These drive-through vaccination sites are fantastic news all Kentuckians, and we’re grateful to the entire Kroger team for making it possible. Your help in this effort will save countless lives.”

The Governor announced that Transportation Secretary Jim Gray has also been named Director of the Vaccine Distribution Project.

“This is all about Team Kentucky delivering on an ambitious, life-saving project,” said Secretary Gray. “This regional system will grow over time to reach even more Kentuckians. As we speak, we are working to get sites evaluated and secured. We are committed to ensuring equitable distribution of the vaccine and everyone will have their turn.”

“We are proud to partner with the state on efforts to make sure all Kentuckians have access to the COVID-19 vaccine as quickly as possible,” said Meggen Brown, Chief Nursing Officer and National Clinical Director at Kroger Health. “Kroger Health’s vision is to help people live healthier lives, and that has never been more important.”

Vaccinations have already begun for K-12 school personnel through individual school districts and will continue to ramp up over the next few weeks. The Governor said the state expects to finish administering initial vaccination doses for K-12 educators and support staff the week of Feb. 1.

“The great news is, we expect to finish first dose vaccinations for school staff the week we said we would start,” said Gov. Beshear.

The Governor urged Kentuckians to be patient as vaccine allocations from the federal government are still far too small to cover everyone in Phase 1A, 1B and 1C who wants to be vaccinated. However, it is critically important that the state gets vaccines into arms quickly. That means in some cases, vaccine providers will need to vaccinate Kentuckians out of the phase sequence in order to meet the state’s goal of administering 90% of vaccines within one week of their arrival at a distribution site.

The Governor and the Kentucky Department for Public Health outlined these phases to help providers distribute vaccines in the most equitable order they can while still vaccinating people as fast as possible. To learn more, see the Jan. 4 release.

“I know people are understandably anxious and want to get the vaccine as soon as they can, especially those who are high-risk. We want to do our very best to put those people in the front of the line, but we also need to move quickly so vaccines don’t just sit in a freezer, helping no one,” said Gov. Beshear. “The faster we increase our vaccination numbers, the safer we all will be, because we will get closer to herd immunity as a state more quickly. That’s the overarching goal, so we ask Kentuckians to bear with us if they have to wait a little while in order to get an appointment.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 14, Gov. Beshear reported the following COVID-19 numbers:

New cases today: 4,084
New deaths today: 51
Positivity rate: 12.34%
Total deaths: 3,042
Currently hospitalized: 1,661
Currently in ICU: 409
Currently on ventilator: 196

Top counties with the most positive cases today are: Jefferson, Kenton, Boone, Oldham and Fayette. Each of these counties reported 170 or more new cases; Jefferson County alone reported 642.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 13, 2021) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced the state’s fourth-highest report of new COVID-19 cases and third-highest report of new COVID-19 deaths.

“We’re going to pass 3,000 COVID-19 deaths in the commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “That is tragic. We can stop this. We need to wear masks. We need to follow the rules and restrictions, and now is not the time to pull away the authority that keeps us safe. That allows us to be fluid and flexible with a virus that appears to be mutating and spreading more aggressively.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, Gov. Beshear reported the following COVID-19 numbers:

New cases today: 4,560
New deaths today: 47
Positivity rate: 12.29%
Total deaths: 2,991
Currently hospitalized: 1,702
Currently in ICU: 403
Currently on ventilator: 225

Top counties with the most positive cases today are: Jefferson, Oldham, Kenton, Fayette, Daviess and Boone. Each of these counties reported 160 or more new cases; Jefferson County alone reported 664.

SOMERSET, Ky. (Jan. 14, 2021) – Public input is needed to help the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) identify transportation concerns along the U.S. 127 corridor in Russell County between the Jamestown Bypass and KY 379.

KYTC along with the Lake Cumberland Area Development District and Stantec Consulting Services has been working to analyze existing conditions and wants to hear from you regarding your safety and traffic concerns within the study area.

Your input is essential to identify the needs of roadway users on a local and regional level. Please take a moment to help the team identify needs along the highway, by completing a short survey available at https://transportation.ky.gov/DistrictEight/Pages/US-127-Russell-Springs-Improvement-Study.aspx. The site also includes a story map which summarizes existing conditions in the study area and an opportunity for you to place points on an online mapping portal to enter location-specific data about existing traffic and safety concerns.

The study team will use engineering, traffic data (current and projected to 2045), and public input to help develop possible short- and long-term highway improvements. Another round of public involvement in late Spring 2021 will collect your input on any proposed improvements. Further funding will be necessary to advance any improvement concept identified as part of this study.

Please complete the survey by February 15, 2021. For additional project information or special assistance, please contact the KYTC Project Manager, Jeff Dick at JeffD.Dick@ky.gov or call 606-677-3507.

Updates can also be found at www.facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8 or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/KYTCDistrict8.

Jan. 14, 2021

Maggie Coleman had set what she thought was a pretty reasonable goal for 2020. The treasurer of J.O.Y Ministries in Columbia thought if this year’s Christmas campaign could bring in $14,000, considering the Covid pandemic, that would be a very successful effort.
After all, that’s one-third of the group’s operating budget, and what it raised last year.

When Coleman totaled up the numbers of this year’s campaign earlier this week, she received a huge surprise. It even made her take a second look. Through the end of December, J.O.Y. Ministries had raised $33,100.
“It pretty much covers our whole budget,” Coleman said with excitement in her voice. “Feeding America gave us a credit for food, so with that credit, we have our expenses covered for the year. That’s real exciting; and our basic ministry needs are covered, too.”
Coleman said though J.O.Y. Ministries did receive some larger donations, most of the donations this year came in small increments. The campaign began in mid-November.

“We had a lot of people give $50 here, or $50 there,” she said. “We didn’t have a lot of big checks. One of the interesting things was a lot of the donors had never given before, so we’ve been able to expand our donor list, and that’s always a good thing. It has been pretty exciting.”

Coleman said she spoke with a gentleman who had called to inquire about the ministry, checking to make sure it was legitimate. He told her he had been reading about the ministry, was excited about what was being done.
“We’re looking at what we’re going to do because of the gifts. We will continue to do what we’ve done before, while maybe being able to offer more financial assistance, help with utilities,” Coleman said. “I am not sure what direction the board wants to go. Maybe we won’t have to be so tight, especially toward the end of the month.”

Several ministries the funds go to are the emergency shelter known as Cally’s House, their summer Mission Week, the after school program Camp HOPE, and the organization’s Crisis Resource Center.
“There were so many small donors in this campaign that we can actually say it was a community effort,” Coleman said. “That just shows how much we care about each other in this county. We’ve seen that all through Covid. I think it shows people want to step up and help.”
To contribute time or money to the ministries, reach out to the J.O.Y Ministries Crisis Resource Center at 411 Greensburg St. or at 270-380-1808 from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“I just want to tell everyone thank you,” said Coleman.

By Scott Wilson
Assistant Editor
scott@adairvoice.com

Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2021:

The Adair County Fiscal Court will meet in regular session Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. This meeting will not be open to the public due to the Governor’s Executive Order but will be streamed live via the Adair County Fiscal Court’s Facebook page.

 

AGENDA

ADAIR COUNTY FISCAL COURT

REGULAR CALLED MEETING

JANUARY 12, 2021 @ 6:00 P.M.

ADAIR COUNTY ANNEX BASEMENT

424 PUBLIC SQUARE, COLUMBIA, KENTUCKY 42728

 

 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

PRAYER

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL

 

1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
2.         APPROVAL OF MINUTES

 

1. Regular Called Meeting – December 29, 2020

 

3.        DISBURSEMENTS

 

4. A.)  SHERIFF’S REPORT

B.)  ROAD DEPARTMENT REPORT

C.)  G.R.A.S. REPORT

D.)  COMMITTEE REPORTS

E.)   JAIL REPORT

 

5.         TREASURER

 

1. TREASURER’S REPORT
2. QUARTERLY REPORT

 

6. BUDGET AMENDMENTS

 

7. BUDGET TRANFERS

A.)        LINE TO LINE TRANSFERS

B.)        FUND TO FUND TRANSFERS

 

8. COURT ORDERS
9. READING OF ROADS

`           10.       ACTION ITEMS:

 

1. SET YEARLY PAYRATE FOR FISCAL COURT EMPLOYEES
2. REVENUE OPTIONS DISCUSSION
3. APPPOINTMENT OF DEPUTY CORONER
4. JUDICIAL CENTER HVAC/BOILER BIDS DISCUSSION AND AWARDING
5. KACO LINE TO LINE AND WORKER’S COMP RENEWAL

 

11. OTHER BUSINESS
12. PUBLIC COMMENTS
13. ADJOURN

 

 

This meeting will be held via ZOOM, and will NOT be open to the public, but will be live streamed on the Adair County Fiscal Court Facebook Page.

ADAIR COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

424 PUBLIC SQUARE

COLUMBIA, KENTUCKY   42728

(270)384-2776

FAX (270)384-5049

 

 

ADAIR CO. SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT ACTIVITY REPORT FOR DECEMBER, 2020

 

11         WARRANTS OF ARREST SERVED

12         CRIMINAL CASES OPENED

 

1          CALL RESPONSE REPORTS WRITTEN

 

5          DOMESTIC ABUSE CASES WORKED

 

14         NON-INJURY ACCIDENTS WORKED

 

3          INJURY ACCIDENTS WORKED

 

2          OUT OF COUNTY TRANSPORTS

 

29         CITATIONS WRITTEN FOR CRIMINAL ACTIVITY

 

20         CIVIL PROCESS PAPERS SERVED

 

2          CRIMINAL SUMMONSES SERVED

 

60         SUBPOENAS SERVED

 

198       HOURS OF COURT SECURITY PROVIDED

 

466       VEHICLE INSPECTIONS DONE

 

10          ANIMAL COMPLAINTS

 

10         MOTOR ASSISTS

 

568       911 CALLS

 

18         ALCOHOL/ DRUG RELATED