At a press conference on July 16th. Brain Wright, Manager, External Affairs, for Kentucky American Water, announced that we were selected as a recipient of their 2008 Environmental Grant Program funds. Kentucky American’s environmental grants support innovative, community – based, environmental projects that improve, restore and/or protect watersheds and community water supplies through partnerships, or educate others regarding these activities.

Mayor Jim Newberry, KAW President Nick Rowe, and others were featured speakers at the press conference, which was held at the future site of the Good Foods Rain Garden. This soon to be completed project is a result of many hours of pro-bono work done by Scott Southall, Landscape Architect for CDP Engineers, along with Russ Turpin, Environmental Specialist for EcoGro. Scott and Russ are Commercial Coordinators for the Bluegrass Rain Garden Alliance, and they will continue with the design and construction supervision of our Southland Commercial Rain Gardens. At present we have accumulated funding for our projects from the following providers:

• Kentucky American Water: $10,000
• LFUCG Council 3,100
• Good Foods Market & Cafe 2,000
• The Southland Association 2,000

We commend you, our members, for providing the dues support that make it possible for The Southland Association to become involved and participate in worthwhile community projects such as the above.

You all deserve a pat on the back!