Comments I've received from you!

Bardstown Road and Gene Synder Intersection
Slot Machines in Kentucky
Tribute "We Must Never Forget"
Gas Prices
Stem Cell and Genetic Engineering
Renaming Freedom Hall the "Denny Crum Arena" 
Gun Control
Landfill
Seat Belts
Taxes
Schools
On the MERGER of Louisville and Jefferson County
On the effort to bring a NBA Team to Louisville

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Bardstown Road and Gene Synder Intersection
Mr. Bratcher,
I just wanted to send you an email saying thank you for your interest and hard work on making Southeast Jefferson County a better community.  We love the area we live in and are thrilled to hear we have eyes looking over the area to make it a better place to live.  Please keep us updated on the progress because even small updates make people feel better knowing things are being improved.  It does raise the spirits of the community even if it ever looks like things go unnoticed. Nothing goes unnoticed, believe me.  Thanks again!
P.S. - Get us a Starbucks out here on Bardstown Road!  :-)
Thanks, B
 
Mr. Bratcher
I received your letter regarding all the work you and Senator Dan Seum have done recently in the Fern Creek area and just wanted to send a quick note to thank you!  I am a resident of Glenmary Subdivision and have seen the positive impact this brings to our community.  We need hard working representatives that care about the community to bring about change and I appreciate your support.  In the fast paced world we live in often folks don't take the time to say thanks to those who serve us so please know your efforts are greatly appreciated.  Keep working to bring good things to Fern Creek!
Respectfully, T.
 
The Bardstown Road improvements you are suggesting are fine and much needed but if you think adding a shopping mall is going to increase property values, let me ask you a question. When has constant and unrelenting traffic congestion been an asset and how does the prospect of vastly  increasing the mess make people want to pay more, let alone live in the area?????  What kind of twisted thinking is this??? The new mall and Krohls are going to make this intersection even more impassable. Adding a lane to get OFF the Gene certainly doesn't REDUCE the tangle of automobiles at this intersection but has the opposite effect. Where are your plans to reduce the congestion? Why not put a bypass from south of Glenmary to Billtown and Johnson School Roads and add an intersection at Johnson School? How about a parallel from Walmart west to Johnson School  and east to Billtown.  It is time to do some major planning for this intersection instead blowing smoke about increased property values. This kind of baloney only makes you look stupid and gives the impression that you are far more clever than your constituents.
D.R.
 
Mr. Bratcher,
I just received in the mail today your letter summarizing the accomplishments along the Bardstown Rd. corridor from the Snyder to the Bullitt county line. These improvements have all been welcome improvements and I want to thank you for your support of these accomplishments. The most recent addition of the Kohls store brings an additional increment of traffic into this already congested area. I attended all of the planning and zoning meetings in the approval of this store and there is one phase of the development plan that I believe was approved that will likely be added when the property directly across Bardstown Rd is developed. This is the addition of another traffic signal between Colonel Hancock Dr. and Brentlinger Ln.. It was pointed out by one of my neighbors (D?????l) in the committee meeting that the location planned for this light would be in violation of the Kentucky State standard for spacing distance between traffic control devices. This fact did not sway the thoughts of the committee or Mr. Bartenwarper and I believe that this light is still in the plans. This addition will create a significant unnecessary amount of traffic  congestion to an already dire situation. Any influence that you have in preventing the addition of this light will be greatly apprecitated by all of the residents of this area. If there is any support or type of petition that you would recommend to change this planned action, I will gladly help and will approach the Glenmary Homeowners Association Board for any needed support.
Thank you,
R.
 
Mr. Bratcher,
 
I just received your letter concerning the Glenmary/Fern Creek area.  I am delighted to hear something will be done with the ever mounting traffic on Bardstown road.  Sometimes it takes 25 to 30 minutes to get to Kroger from the Glenmary area.  I am hoping this gets better with time. My biggest concern is this, I live in the ????? subdivision off of Old Bardstown road.  The entrance to my subdivision has a stop sign but there is not one on Old Bardstown road.  There have been SEVERAL accidents at this intersection.  Providence and Old Bardstown road desperately needs to be a four way stop.  Several residents have reached out for help but to no avail.  We were told that there hasn't been enough accidents at this intersection to get a much needed stop sign.  I've never heard of something so ludicrous!  How would the City feel if it was their child that was involved in a wreck here?  The speeding on this roadway is dangerous and out of control.  When you slow down to pull into the subdivision, most cars zip right around you, impeding traffic in the other direction as well.  I invite you to visit this stretch of roadway, anytime would be fine since this is a CONSTANT ongoing issue here.  But be extra careful in the morning and evening rush hour traffic. Can you please help?  Any feedback at this point will be very much appreciated!  I've only lived here for 6 years, but some of my neighbors say this has been going on for close to 10 years!  And it is only getting worse with time and new construction.  
 Thank you in advance Mr. Bratcher!
 Sincerely, P
 
Kevin,
Thanks for the letter update. We live in ???? and are very concerned about South Point Commons and the traffic problems it will entail. We are also concerned about the developers not living up to their promises. It is good to know that you are working closely with them on our behalf. One caveat: make sure they have sufficient funding before they break ground. These days, with less than sure financing, it would be a travesty to have them break ground, create a huge mess, tear out beautiful woods, and then leave it like that indefinately.
Thanks,
J
 
Hello.....I recently recieved your letter in the mail. We live in ?????....Off Old Bardstown road across from ???.We've lived here a little over three years....We like our house an the area, but have grown to hate the traffic. From Gene Snyder to out past ??? there are at least two car wrecks a day....Why know one thought of three lanes North an South through this corridor is beyond me....What idiot has been planning all of these projects without considering this......I see that your going to make the exit to Bardstown Rd. off the Gene Snyder four lanes. Your creating a funnel of traffic with no where to go.....The exisiting two lanes North an South can't handle the traffic as it is now......With all the construction it will be ten times worse.....Another Dixie Hwy...Have you been on Dixie Hwy lately.....People move away from trafficy areas....Look at all the vacant buildings....Within ten years this area will look the same.....But Hey if you don't live around here you don't care....Just keep building an building.....Our property value won't go up.....It will go South......neighborhood friendly my ass!!!!!  
 
Domestic Partners Insurance at Public Universities

Dear Representative Bratcher:
Please return to Frankfort July 30th and vote to Protect Marriage - Vote for Senate Bill 5. 75% of Kentuckians voted in 2004 to Protect Marriage from any kind of re-definition. U of L and UK are redefining marriage by giving tax supported spousal benefits to the unmarried domestic partners. SB 5 would specifically block this redefinition of marriage. The Senate did the right think by passing Senate Bill 5. Now it is your turn. I will watch to see how you vote.
Sincerely,
Phil S.

Louisville, KY 40291

Dear Representative Bratcher:
Please Protect Marriage in this special session. U of L and UK are redefining marriage by giving spousal benefits to unmarried domestic partners at our tax funded universities. Insist on a bill that would specifically block this redefinition of marriage, and then vote for this bill. 75% of Kentucky Voters asked for the Marriage Protection Amendment, which is now the law of our great Commonwealth. You took an oath to uphold our constitution. Now please fulfill your oath to uphold our constitution in this special session by insisting on a vote and then voting to Protect Marriage and stop the universities from redefining marriage.
Sincerely,
Mr. & Mrs. S.

Louisville 40299

I understand that you will be in Frankfort for a special session on August 13 to deal with an energy bill but I urge you to pass another – TO PROTECT MARRIAGE. The 2004 Marriage Protection Amendment passed with 75% of the vote. Now our two flagship universities, U of L and UK, have defied the will of the people and the Constitution by redefining marriage and giving domestic partnership benefits to unmarried couples (both heterosexual and homosexual). I urge you to pass legislation to protect marriage during this special August 13, 2007 special session.

Sincerely, Vicki H.

Gambling in Kentucky

Thanks for your service. Just wanted to let you know that I am NOT in favor of any additional establishments to do with gambling or any added gambling opportunities at existing establishments in KY.Just for the record. Thank you. Keep up the good work!

 

Kevin,
On the slots, my husband and I are split on this issue he says "Yes" and I say "No."

 

Many churches believe horse racing is immoral but we have it in our state. Vote YES for slots.

 

Dear Kevin,
They say that the "end justifies the means", but that is just not true. 
Every one of those "pros" could be achieved some other way that didn't
involve a moral issue. Sin is never justified. Those who think so are blind and are walking around with their heads in the sand. Kevin, stand up for
what is right during fights like this in Frankfort. Plead the Blood of Jesus
over yourself. Do Spiritual warfare. Pray for God to anoint you with wisdom and power as you get up to speak. Come against the powers that want to permeate the society with evil. God will strengthen you. Amen.

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I say NO SLOTS, the Horse Industry is not the only people in KENTUCKY
that should be allowed Gambling machines, if it is not available to the public to start a gambling business with slot machines then we should not favor the Horse industry! They have gambling at the track on HORSES,...that is unique, everybody can't do it but slot machines can be put in damn near any location the machine will fit. Why should the HORSE INDUSTRY benefit over MR or MRS TAXPAYER, VOTER, or for that matter welfare recipient!!!  Just my thoughts. Vote NO SLOTS or SLOTS FOR ALL !!!!

 

Please vote AGAINST slot machines. Just because someone else (i.e. Indiana) is doing something wrong does not mean that we should, even if it is financially profitable to do so. (And based on the damage that gambling causes, I dispute whether it is financially profitable in the long run anyway.)  If you want to profit on out-of-state gambling, tax it! Simply add a 25% state surtax on all gambling winnings won in out-of-state gaming. If that doesn't discourage out-of-state gambling, at least it will help offset the hypothetical missed revenue opportunity.  Obviously, do NOT pair that idea with the idea of a state tax credit for out-of-state gaming losses. We know that in the long run more is lost in gambling than is won, so we would NOT come out ahead on that one... 

 

Kevin
It really don't make any difference to me about the slots. But if this is something that will benefit all the people and not just the horse industry I would go for it. sorry I can't be any more help.
Good Luck

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While I don't like to admit we need to do this, let's not get caught up in the moral/immoral argument. People gamble. Kentuckians gamble... to the tune of 10's of millions of dollars a month in Indiana. We don't want our taxes raised; we'd rather keep it and spend it on the riverboats. As absurd as it may sound, that's what's going on. It is ironic that a state that can "milk" it's citizens of millions in a lottery, can have the gall to make this an issue. It's time for Kentucky to take back some serious coin that goes across the river.

 

Kevin, The Bible says "Wealth gotten by vanity comes to nothing." I believe God's way for receiving is by working and by giving. I know people in my own church who have filed for bankruptcy and go to the gambling boats and bingo, so . . . no I do not like the idea of more gambling. I noticed they have tried to tame the word by calling it gaming. Reminds me of how abortionists call killing babies, pro choice.

 

No slots

Kevin, Please vote for slots. Indiana is taking money we could use.

Yes to slots
No, no, no, gambling. We were lied about when they made the lottery happen. Don't be fooled Kevin, Valley Station says NO.

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We have been to Mississippi and Las Vegas many times. Why let those states take our money when we could use it for our schools and health care? It is a no-brainer to me.
 
I think the State of KY. should vote in gaming it is all around the west and north of the state of KY.
 
I know this will probably not be read by you, but if you care about the young people in Kentucky and about the morals of America, especially after 911, then you vote a big NO on all forms of gambling and that means bingo too. And just remember what happen to the lottery money. It was a joke.
 
Vote Yes Kevin. Kentucky is always late while other states grow we have moral/immoral debates that just keep us behind.
 
Dear Mr. Bratcher:
Thank you for asking our opinion. Please vote NO on slots. Gambling destroys lives and families, and should not be encouraged. Gambling is wrong, and we sure don't need to add to what is already available. Obtaining revenue is no excuse for encouraging immorality, in any case.

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Hi Kevin, Nice summary! My view is "yes" IF (might be a big if) the earmarks can be guaranteed and there's a way to estimate the revenues conservatively so that we don't end up with the "Mississippi problem."
 
Dear Kevin,
Thank you once again for keeping your people informed of what is going
on around them.  I am for the slots, only if the money is spent the way it is originally set up. Unlike the Lottery, I know it doesn't go where it was originally supposed to go. I do not understand the people who set these things in motion and then they do not carry them out.  If the slots will help the Senior Citizens, then I am for it. If it will keep the people like myself from having to pay more taxes then I am for it.  In my life time I see greedy people and they see these big dollars coming in and then they say hey! let's forget what we were originally supposed to use this for and then they use this money for their own gain.  If the slots pass, I just hope that the money made will be spent wisely, and I hope that people who really can't afford to play will play responsibly.
Take care, Thanks again. 

 

Kevin, I really have mixed feelings about the slots, etc. Personally, this is one thing I have very few problems with. People are going to gamble no matter where they live, whether it be scratch-off cards in the dairy marts, 7-11's, poker games, sporting events or the river boat in Indiana.

The only thing I think about is, will this make it easier and more enticing for heads of households that really can't afford to gamble, deprive their children from their needs? I have to give an undecided on this one.

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Kevin:
I urge you to vote for this! I feel that gambling, as long as it is  controlled, is an acceptable form of revenue generation.
 
My mother is 77 yrs old and must pay over a $!00.00 a month for medications on a yearly income of $1250.00. That's right $1250.00 a month. She owns her own home and lives by herself in Valley Station. She has a Medicare supplement but doesn't have a prescription supplement. Approval of this bill would help her greatly along with other senior citizens in our community.

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The end does not justify the means. No more gambling -- it's those who
can ill afford it that are now playing the lottery. Thanks, Kevin for
representing us.
Tribute "We Must Never Forget"  
Mr. Bratcher,
I just finished viewing you "Never Forget" presentation. It was beautiful. I will forward it to all the folks on my list. Some of them are overseas. They are military and I'm sure they will appreciate it.
Thank-you and God Bless,
Heather -Cheyenne, Wyoming
Hi ~
I just wanted to let you know that the "Never Forget" Presentation is making the rounds through email.  A friend in Waco, TX, sent it to me - I am in Gatesville - I sent it to New York, Kentucky, South Carolina, and several cities in Texas.  My son, in Austin, TX, wrote that I should check out the WWW.Bratcher.cc site.  I just got down when I opened it up to find I was in Kentucky.  You see, we've been in TX since 1975, but my heart never left KY.  My first 34 years were spent in Eastern and Central KY.  Anyway, just wanted to let you know that the Never Forget site is excellent.  Thank you.
Sincerely,
Joan R. 

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Mr. Bratcher,
I am a Little League president in Mesa Arizona. We as a league would
like to show our support to our troops and country. After reviewing your
Never Forget presentation I can see no better way to show how we feel.
As a retired soldier it hit the heart. Is it possible for us to either
download a copy of your presentation, post a link from our website to
yours, or refer the link on our league webpage-- www.rmll.org? Thank you, Larry B. 
US Army (R)
President, Red Mountain Little League
Mr. Bratcher, Just a quick note to let you know how wonderful the never forget movie is. Each time I watch it, tears start and I am so proud to be an American. This movie is something that should be played on the networks regularly, so that when any doubt enter on our mission, Americans never forget why. thank you. A Proud American
Dear Mr. Bratcher, I was directed to your website to check out the "Never Forget" program. However, I also viewed several other items including your 9/23 letter in response to the newspaper editorial. Although I live in PA, thanks for telling it like it is. 

Respectfully, Greg from Lancaster, PA

I travel through your state on business often and I only wish all State Representatives in this great USA had your courage and foresite. Keep up the great work. Larry C. of Manitowoc,WI

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Sir, thank you so much for "Never Forget" I was finally able to see it at the alternate site. Karen B.  West Covina, CA
Dear Rep. Bratcher-
We are having our county convention for the Pickens County of South
Carolina Republican Party on Oct. 30. We would like to show your
presentation "Never Forget". Is there a way for us to get a copy of the file? Thank you for a great presentation and the work you do. 

Kristin M. 
Pickens County Republican Party
South Carolina

Just watched your tribute to the attacks. It was really beautiful. Don't know if you'll get this email as I'm not very good with computers. 
Thanks. Gwen W. 

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Dear Mr. Bratcher,
I just finished viewing your 'Never Forget' page... what can I say? It was incredible. Every man, woman and child in this country needs to see it, hear it, experience it. Thank you for the time that you put into preparing it. Indeed, I pray that God will continue to bless this country. But, we must also be ready to beg His forgiveness for our turning away from Him, thinking that we don't need Him anymore; that we can do it all on our own. It is clear that we are NOT immune to the evil in this world. I only pray that we truly turn to Him on bended knee and beg for mercy!!! Thank you again, sir. May God bless you..
<//><
Marie from Downingtown, PA
Representative Bratcher, What a wonderful tribute you and your staff prepared. Breathtaking. I am a registered nurse and the powerful site you provided brought about so much emotion in myself and fellow nurses and healthcare workers. What a tragedy of the loss of lives..innocent lives. Thank you again for a beautiful tribute. Respectfully yours, Jill K.
Ohio
hello
first im sorry about this proplem in usa i think this very bad very creminal from bad pepole like bin laden . i ask my god to geve usa win this war my name is basel im from syria i work in dubai branch manager in cosmetic co. i have so mony freind from usa also never i forget 11 septempr im sorry if my english note very good my adress is : 

united arab emirates dubai
mob no:00971506549556
Basel talal abu assaf
thank you
Basel

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Thank you for a beautiful tribute to America. http://www.bratcher.cc/neverforget.swf
May none of us forget September 11, 2001. I live in Florida, and can not vote for you, in Kentucky, but I can send thanks and prayers for you and your family.
May you continue to guide America and the world to peace.
Warmly, Joy L., FL, USA
Kevin some-one sent me a link to your site and I have placed it on mine
for all to click on and visit your site. I love what you created. I hope that is OK, If not let me know and I will remove it immediately 

JIM B. www.paratroopers.org

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Just saw your dedication to the victims of the WTC Attack....watched with tears streaming down my face, you did a beautiful job, Gob bless you....we will prevail, we will remember always September ll, 200l, just like we remembered where we were when President JFK was assasinated...loved the vocals of Lee Greenwood, Proud to be an American.........
Ann C. 
Hon. Rep. Bratcher: Have you sent this video on to news outlets?  I wish you would, if you haven't already.  Now that I know where it originated, I will be giving you full credit. Thank you so much again.  I showed it to my husband last night - a redneck, truck-drivin' tough guy.  He broke down. We must NEVER forget.  You have a done a great service for the people of the United States of America. 

 

Dear Kevin, Tears streamed down my cheeks as I sat at my computer watching the remarkable tribute you did in honor of a few of the heroes who were unfortunate victims of Sept. 11. Thank you for putting this together. I am honored to have received it and will gladly pass it on. 

Sincerely, Suzanna L. Battle Creek, MI

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Thank you for putting "Never Forget" out on the WEB. The link was e-mailed to me from an American friend who now lives in Ireland.

Representative Bratcher: Thank you for your poignant presentation "Never Forget . . " I am an Air Force officer assigned at a "forward deployed" location (prior to 9-11). We watched with shock and horror as AFN presented the unfolding story of terrorism brought to our shores. It is heartening to see the outpouring of unanimous patriotism which "Never Forget. . ." typifies. 

Lt Col James L. P., USAF
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

I had no idea where the "never forget" video came from, as I received it via email. When I went looking for the source, this is where I ended up, at your site. If you were, indeed, the one responsible for it, thank you, thank you so much. It is a beautiful tribute, and I have already emailed it on to many. It is important that we never forget. It is important that we resolve it shall never happen again. Thank you for a very touching, reverent tribute to those who unknowingly gave their lives to our country. 

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Thank you for sharing the 9-11-01 video.
Kim Y. 
Andover, MA
Your wonderful page... "Never forget" ... it is awesome and breathtaking. I have made a few and seen many but yours is the most moving and
inspiring to come across the net. Thank You! Joanne V.  Pgh,Pa.

http://gabbiash.nstemp.com/LoveAmerica.html

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I just viewed the 9-11 tribute, and I must say, I haven't seen anything so far that has brought me to tears until today. My heart has been hurting for all who have been hurt, lost, or found dead, but I haven't been able to cry about it until today. Thank you for doing such a beautiful thing for us. A Proud American in Ohio
Awesome presentation. I'm recommending it to all of my friends to
watch... and remember! Casi

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Received your 911 Remember in an Email. It was very nice. Couldn't help
but notice that we share a name. I come from the Bratcher family out of
the St. Louis area. Somewhat unusual name. . .thank you for what you do in serving our country. 

D. Bratcher Farris
Hamilton, IL

Thank you so much for the Never Forget presentation. So much attention has been placed on the NYFD and NYPD, that we tend to lose sight of the other victims. Thank you. God Bless! 

Amy U. 
Pennsylvania

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Hello I just viewed your Never forget part of your website in memory of all who died and are missing. Words can't describe what I felt viewing this, I sent it to all who are on my mailing list....Thank you
Thank you Sir . . . to you and your offices. I have just watched the beautiful tribute at your site . . . I live in New York just outside of NYC on Long Island. My friends and family have all been affected. Thank you. Madelon  K. Hicksville, New York

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Kevin, I served 4 in the Marines and never thought that I'd ever be
complimenting a sailor. Someone sent me a link to the "We must never forget" presentation. It was very moving. After viewing it I checked out your domain to see who was responsible. I browsed through your site to get a feel of your policies and voting history. I have to admit that I wish
that I was in Kentucky to support you 100%. Keep up the good work! The main reason I'm writing is to see if I can get a copy of the presentation to show my son when he gets older. Is there a way to do that? 

Cheers,Tom B. 

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Dear Kevin, I just viewed the .SWF file you have located at your web site to remember the victims of Sept. 11,2001. I am a 52 year old man who has not cried in some time until I saw the pictures you have in that file. It was very moving to say the least. Very good job. I do have a request to ask of you though, thus the reason I am sending this email. I am constructing a web site for a friend of mine with LiveMotion and was wondering if you would allow me to use the music from your site. Would you object to sending the music file to me via email so I may use it in the snugglebugblankie.com tribute to Sept.11, 2001. Snuggle Bug Blankie is a small company who is making blankets for the children of the firefighters and police officers of New York. You can see the site at snugglebugblankies.com and I will send you an email when its finished. Thank you very much for bring out tears I haven't been able to cry. Walter

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I was very impressed with your tribute page to our Amercian tragedy, It was wonderful and brought tears to my eyes! Chris from Oklahoma
Thank you so much for your moving tribute regarding the Sept. 11th
disaster. I cried through the whole thing. You also have a fantastic
website! So much information for your local people. Keep up the great
work. Knowledge is power and you use yours well. Laurie- Irvine, CA

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Gas Prices
Dear Kevin; The gas stations and gas suppliers that raised their prices 50% to 100% during Tuesday's (9/11/01) disaster should be put out of business. The **** said it was so they wouldn't run out of gas. This was not true. They did it profit from this terrorism. They are just as bad as the terrorists. Other stations did raise their price. We need to remember which companies tried to cheat us and put them out of business, by not buying anything at all from them. Even if we need to drive an extra mile or two to a different station.
 
Stem Cell and Genetic Engineering
Kevin, I to am alarmed by genetically engineered crops accidentally getting in the food chain. We don't know what affect it would have on the environment as a whole. Scientist and Corp. are in too big of a hurry to try things for money and fame, before they study the affect on the World Cloning of Human Beings, to me, is a totally different thing. We have not set any legal or moral guidelines for this. I think until the social problems this process present to our society are answered, cloning should be put on hold. Nice to hear from you. I am glad you are still asking our views on things. It was in the paper the other day that local politician should vote their own views, rather than that of the voter, because they know better then us. I am still glad I voted for you and will again, God Willing.

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Dear Kevin, I read the article like you asked me to do and here is what I 
think of it. You may not like what I have to say, but remember you asked. If people start doing the act of nature then where is this going to leave "God"  at in there life? Women who want children that badly then they need to check into  adoption. What happens to a child that has been cloned and turns out to  be handicapped, then who will take care of this child? What kind of life would that handicapped child have? Even if the child was not handicapped which to me is highly unlikely, the media would be all over them all their life. No peace, no freedom from anything because everyone will want to know how this cloning thing effects the life of the child, as well as the parents who are raising them. Why would any researchers want to put anyone through a trial like this. Leave the act of "God" to "God" himself. There is enough unwanted children handicapped and not handicapped in the world. Why add more?  I am strongly against this cloning thing, just incase you could not tell.  Thanks for asking for my response.

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Kevin, I'm no way a professional on the subject but believe that we have to continue to do genetic engineering on food stuffs, but we should really test for long term affects before approving same. From what I know at this point I'm against human cloning.

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I feel that "Fools rush in where Wise men dare not tread". Although human cloning could , and probably does, have its positives, we are rushing into something that we know very little about. We are not dealing with live stock or crops, but people. What will we do with the results that go astray? Throw them away!? What if we start creating mass quantities of creations that have three arms or four eyes? Then again, what if it all works out and there becomes an entire "race" of clones? Does this create a whole new social dilemma? As an educator , I can conceptualize the day when people will voice and protest against their children going to school and sitting next to a "clone". Will we allow intercloning marriages? I don't feel "FEAR" is the adjective that I would use to describe my emotional and intellectual state towards this idea. But , rather, caution. Because: "Fools do rush in where Wise men dare not tread"
Thank you for being concerned enough about issues that need attention and those that need to be left alone. Your example of blood transfusions is a good example of how we can be helped by modern medicine. For all of those that choose to believe that God created the heaven and the earth, we hold dearly that, In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Genesis 1:1 Genesis 1:24 says, And God said, let the earth bring forth the living creatures after his kind, cattle, and creeping thing, and beast of the earth after his kind: and it was so. 25 And God made the beast of the earth after his kind, and cattle after their kind, and every thing that creepeth upon the earth after his kind: and God saw that it was good. 26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. I'm going to leave the rest alone. Thank you,

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Adlolf Hitler killed life to 'discover & advance science', it was wrong. Making life to destroy it, is doubly wrong. Embreos are life's earliest form. Science is God's understanding disclosed to us humans, it's good. All good things can be perverted into bad. We have so much to learn from stemcell research, and it can be done by borrowing adult stem cells. We don't have to create life and then kill it for further advancement of our own needs.
Hello Kevin....
      Thank you for that report.  I appreciate you keeping me abreast as to what is happening not only here in Kentucky, but in Washington too.   I totally disagree with the cloning of humans, or any type of parts, because it is morally and ethically WRONG!!!  I understand that the scientists believe that they are trying to help mankind, but in my opinion, they are becoming too far advanced in their research.  In our world, we have people dying from cancer on a daily basis, and  these people have to take radiation therapy or some type of hormonal medicine to try and control it, and after paying out all that money for the treatment,  they die anyway.  That is life.  All of us were born for a purpose and 
whatever disease that we contract, we have to contend with what we have,  whether we like it or not.  If people did not die, then our population would  be MORE overcrowded than what it is right now.  On a daily basis, we have people dying from starvation, for one reason or another.  We have people who are unable to work, elderly people are in nursing homes, because the families are unable to provide for them, so they turn them over to the State.  So what good would it do, for scientists to clone humans, just for them to grow up and suffer as everyone else does in the world?  If God had intended for us to be cloned, everyone in the world would have a twin, and the cycle would continue on and on....then it would be twice as difficult for families to raise their children.  That's why we are, who we are.
      Also, back in the early to mid 1970's, the cancer research institutes came on television saying they had a possible cure for cancer.  They said that the vitamins that was found in the apricot seed helped to put cancer in remission.  I remember that very well, because my father had prostate cancer and he had my mother to go and purchase apricots.  Also, they said that asparagus was high in the vitamins, the same as apricots and that people should eat them too. Unfortunately, he passed away anyway, with a massive heart attack. In my opinion, the American Medical Association has a cure for cancer, but because so much money can be made with the radiation treatments and the patients having to pay the doctors for the treatments....the cycle goes on....So tell me, why the scientists would want to clone humans when they're going to be killed off anyway????  Also, on a daily basis, we have babies being aborted because they're unwanted.  Now, they're wanting to clone the embryo's????  That makes absolutely no sense to me!!!  I believe that we need to take care of the matters at hand and help those who are sick to be more comfortable while they are living.  Because no matter what the scientists, or doctors do, when it's that persons time to die, they will have NO CONTROL over that....Only GOD DOES. On Judgement Day, when EVERYONE has to go before the  Judgment Throne 
of God, I'd sure hate to be in their shoes!!!  Thank you so much for allowing me to state my opinion.  You can even use my name if you wish....you have my permission.     

Sincerely,
Marcia D. Kern

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I know we, as a planet, need to find new ways to feed the billions of
people on its earth. But at what cost? We are only human and it will take a lot of trial and error to get it right and it may be at the cost of millions of people. These corporations are telling us they are trying their best to find ways to produce more food for consumption, but when it comes down to it, they are looking at the bottom line. That's what scares me. In regards to cloning, I am very much against it. I don't understand the need to make someone just like you. Only God creates through the miracle of birth from one male and one female. I do believe we should work on further research to help cure more diseases, but at a slow pace. Anyone who has a life-threatening disease would want stem cell research, but we must be careful. It could lead to people just getting pregnant only to sell their embryos to the highest bidder. But how do we do this without the government watching every move we make? These are tough questions that don't need to be answered in total right away. We should move with caution and not look at the bottom line.  
Teacher Pay
Spending is probably about right, perhaps better oversight insure better use of the available funds. As a person who has sat with many teachers in Post Graduate education programs I would also focus on teacher salaries. Improve the salaries - based on individual teacher performance and accomplishment.
 
Regarding the salaries for teachers, I was not that involved in this field until my daughter became a teacher. With all she had to do to prepare to become a teacher and all the "extra" things she does and buys for her 4th/5th grade split class at Watson Ln. Elem., I really know first hand what teachers who care do to make a difference in children's lives. She has a master's degree in education and any other master's degree would pay a great deal more than she makes. I feel in order to get and keep "good" teachers, we need to pay them what they are worth. I know there are a lot of teachers who are only in it for the money and it is hard to differentiate between the two, but teachers should be held accountable for their classrooms. And, I feel discipline should come back into our schools. It didn't hurt us and it won't hurt this generation either. Teachers have to have some control or there is no environment to learn in the classroom.

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Dear Mr. Bratcher, I feel that the school system in Kentucky does need
an uplift in many ways. I feel that the teachers should be really qualified to teach our children and should be willing to give their 100% to teach our children. I feel that the teachers are underpaid for what they must go through with not being able to discipline their students like I was when I was in school. I would like to see discipline back into all Kentucky schools. I feel that the teachers have the right to punish the students when necessary. I don't believe in expelling a student for what they have done, for this just satisfies the student knowing that he don't have to go to school and this doesn't accomplish anything. Let's bring back the punishment of standing in front of the principal's office all day long I hated that cause everyone knew that I had done something bad. Also , I believe in a good spanking, we had that when I was in school, our principal had a big paddle that he called "The board of Control" and boy did it hurt. My parents had to go to school for conferences due to my fighting. I never got mispelled from school . But I got punished at school and then when I got home, I got it again. The kids now days are out of control and they know and are taught if a teacher touches them for misbehaving they could get into trouble and they could call it child abuse. I know for a fact that they teach child abuse in school and they did when my son was in school, to the point every time that I spanked him, he would tell me that he was going to report me to the child protection people, and he learned this in school. I do believe that the teachers are underpaid and I feel that most of the shortage of teachers is caused by they have no control over their students and I wouldn't make a good teacher at all for I believe in discipline. I feel that too much money from Louisville is spent for unnecessary things, just like the concert at Derby time, which was a bust, our Mayor and other higher ups do not have their priorities straight and if they would put them in the proper order, education and good teachers for our children and grandchildren is a must for they are our future representatives. Thank you for letting me voice my opinion on this matter.  
 
Renaming Freedom Hall the "Denny Crum Arena" 
Anyway, just watched the news about you pushing to rename Freedom Hall. Just a suggestion that may resolve the conflict with the original winner of the essay contest of naming the place. Denny Crum's Freedom Hall Sounds like a no brainer.
Gun Control
Nothing says it better than the old saying, "When guns are outlawed. Only outlaws will have guns. As far as all the shootings by children. There needs to be more education. I have 2 children (grown now) and had loaded guns laying around the house since before they were born and not once did they ever touch one of them. They were taught what they were to be used for and not as toys.
I am not very familiar with the KY gun laws. But as a retired Army Officer I am familiar with the damage guns can cause and would prefer that no hand guns be available to the general public.
I'm sure we have all seen and read stories of young kids getting a hold
of their parent's gun and ending up seriously harming themselves or
others. Gun fighting is glorified in movies, and kids can not distinguish
fantasy from reality. I personally find it unsafe to have guns around
children, or anyone for that case, even if they are taught the "proper"
way to use them. Knowing the harm they can cause, it's just a
dangerous risk that should not be taken.

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Landfill
I'm opposed to using Jefferson Country as dumping ground for other countries, I think all countries should take care of their own Waste...As for Odors on warm days I can smell the Outer Loop Land Fill traveling on I-65 with the windows up or down. Thanks for representing us and filing these amendments.
Representative Bratcher, We agree with your position on the land fills Your leadership on the amendments to House Bill 237 is very positive for our district.

 

Kevin; Thanks for giving me the opportunity to give my opinions; Regarding solid waste program that you guys are working on, We do have a problem in our part of the county in illegal dumping. A mandatory curbside garbage pickup would help.. I believe many county already have this. I see many garbage bags along our roadway that such a system would help rectify. Meade County has such a system. Each homeowner is required to pay. I'm not sure who bills for this service, the county or the garbage hauler contractor. Currently County Public Works is required to police this solid waste from our roadsides, and they will if you call them. We would still have the problem with tire and garbage but not as much??? This could also be labeled as a backdoor tax but most of us are already paying??? We also have a problem with small contractor putting their construction garbage in the back of their pickup and driving on Gene Snyder and other roadways and letting the stuff blowout. I heard a Louisville small contractor bragging about this??? Regarding the $300,000. short fall, I really don't know?? I'm basically for some co-pay for medical services. I know this would add paperwork, but???? Keep up the good work
Seat Belts
Mr.Bratcher:
I understand there is a movement on to expand the seat belt law. This would permit the police to stop you and issue a citation for not wearing your seat belt. Please do what you can to keep this from passing. It does not make sense to me that one year we do away with the helmet law for motorcycles and then turn around and toughen the seat belt law. Everyone knows they should wear a seat belt. However not wearing a seat belt harms no one except the person who chooses not to wear it. Where does government stop? Perhaps someone will determine that eating pizza is hazardous to your health and we will pass a law prohibiting eating pizza. Where does it stop?

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I drive up and down the roads everyday. I see children hanging out windows and jumping seats as the vehicle is in motion. The children are our future. More enforcement for children needs to be engaged in the quest to get people to buckle up. If the adult wishes not to buckle, they bring upon themselves their own destiny. Pain and Suffering. I buckle, and everyone that gets into my vehicle does also. They don't have to buckle; but they can find another ride.

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Representative Bratcher, I understand that the do gooders have been active in this session of the legislature. I am dead set against the change in the seat belt law. I personally think that most all safety equipment should be optional in a car. It is irresponsible for government to legislate common sense. As far as I am concerned this is just another form of taxation. The automobile industry goes out of its way in this country to sell the Fed on new safety equipment technology. They do this for 3 reasons (in my opinion) 1st, competitive edge. It takes overseas competitors time and money to catch up to the new technology. 2nd, by getting the Fed to mandate this technology, it raises the overall price of the vehicle and provides more profit margin. And 3rd, It's good PR with the public. Jane Doe Housewife feels safer driving in this new car. Let's examine the flip side of some of these "safety features". How many people have been injured or killed by Air Bags? Did you know that if you have a minor accident and bump something lightly with your car (not enough to deploy your air bag) that at sometime later if you hit the slightest bump (ex.pot hole) the air bag could suddenly deploy? Are you aware that if you have a minor accident and the air bags do deploy but no serious damage occurs to the car that A.) The air bag could injure the occupants and B.) It is going to cost somebody, either you or your insurance company approximately 1200-1400 dollars to put the air bags back in their place. Let's talk about ABS brakes, (Now mandatory in all vehicles) It is true that if you do not know how to drive that they can prevent an accident in a skid. There are a couple of gotchas though. First, there is a time delay in braking when using ABS brakes. I don't know about you but when I need brakes I NEED BRAKES NOW! This has contributed I believe to more minor accidents on the road which in turn raises everyone's automobile insurance. Also, Now that ABS brakes are on vehicles most mechanics will not touch them with a ten foot pole. This leads to having to take the vehicle to the Dealership for service. That only cost you mo money. It is true that seatbelts save lives but if used improperly by the uninformed public they can also cause injury. Every time a new law is enacted we give up a little more of our freedom. There obviously are good laws and bad laws. I believe that laws should only be enacted as a last resort. It seems that the legislators in the rush to make a name for themselves have forgotten what has made this country strong and number 0ne ... Freedom!

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Taxes
Hello Rep. Bratcher
I don't want to take up a lot of your time but, I just want to let you
know that Elaine and I, (Frank) agree wholeheartedly with you that we
should not be raising taxes when there is the kind of waste in our
government that you have cited in your emails. Kentucky needs more
representatives like yourself who care about the peoples needs.
Kevin, I agree with this article and with you resisting the liberal idea that any tax is a good tax. In Louisville we have spent enough money on studying an East end Bridge to build it, because of special interests. Keep Up The Good Work. We appreciate it.
Hello Kevin, I hope that your Summer has gone well and all is great with you and the family. Listing to the news tonight, I am very concerned that the  Governor is going to try and increase the amount of Taxies that we pay for fuel here in KY.  I ask that you help defeat this proposal. Also, I’m asking that you join in causing an investigation of the Transportation Cabinet for  giving away, to a Highway Construction contractor, 5 million dollars as a Bonus for completing the work ahead of the scheduled completion date on I-64. Whom ever in the Transportation Cabinet, that established the work completion date, for this project, was derelict in the performance of their duties and responsibilities to the Tax payers of Kentucky and should be removed from having the opportunity to ever commit such an act, against the KY Tax Payer, in the future. Also, the authority to give Bonus should be taken away from the Transportation Cabinet. Our Highway tax dollars need to be spent on making roads better to drive on in KY. Kevin, it looks like some folks are going to try to make it happen again. Let’s not let a law be made that would allow the Police to stop a vehicle because they see a person not wearing a seat belt. Instead lets cause our Police force to start obeying the Traffic law (themselves) that are presently on the books and enforcing them. Examples:  Speeding, vehicles with out a Bumper. vehicles with Head lights and Tail light inoperative or missing. Bottom line, yes we know that seat belts do save some peoples lives, but the decision on whether to wear or not to wear a Seat Belt should be left to each individuals. After all we are in America. God Bless. 
"Regarding last years Tax Surplus, that the General Assembly spent, in my opinion, for what it's worth, was a criminal act against the Tax payers of KY. I sure hope that the Voters don't send these people back to represent them when they come up for reelection."

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Schools
Although I do believe that spending could be better in education, there
are many other problems with education that don't relate to spending. 
I, being a college student, have seen and heard of many teachers who
are no longer enthused with there work and who just don't put much effort into their job. With some jobs people would be able to get by with
putting in only the minimum effort, but when it's dealing with kids and
the future I do not believe "minimal" should be accepted. One solution
to this problem would be of course increasing pay for teachers, or
allowing annual raises based on performance. Not many people are excited about going into a field that pays so little. Increasing pay would
account for helping to end the teacher shortage. Also, in some areas it seems even the teachers are not very well educated, so therefore are little help to there students. 
"Having first-hand knowledge of the Jefferson County school district I know that there are many hard working dedicated teachers in the system. My concern is that the school district devotes so much time on the FEW bad children in the classrooms the eager-to-learn students are missing out. The school officials spend their time with issues unrelated to the classroom that there is little support for the teachers. Another problem in the district is that fingers need to start pointing to the parents. Teachers can not spend their time disciplining their children although many school officials and MOST parents think that is part of the MANY responsibilities of the teachers. The curriculum for teachers now include so much nonsense it takes away from the important subjects, as a matter of fact it takes away from the core subjects. I challenge everyone to get involved, use the Open Records Act and find out what is going on within the classrooms. Let's help these teachers."

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Money is not the problem with educating the Children of KY. I don't understand why we put so much money into the educational system in KY, when we get little or no results.

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On the MERGER of Louisville and Jefferson County
I do think it will make Louisville grow, but if we merge we would have a new stadium shoved down our throats. I don't think you can top county emergency services either. People make the Government up; so Government is as good as the People doing the job. A merged system won't create a better government.

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"We are basically against the merger - largely because my husband believes that we (in Jefferson County) will then be forced to pay city taxes AND county taxes. Also - trying to get something done through the city or county government is like working with a huge monster now - merging would make the monster ENORMOUS! :). Anyway - for the common people, I can't see how the merger would be of any benefit. It seems the main benefit would be for the bureaucrats to brag about how big Louisville has become."
"The city of Louisville has enough problems, we who live in the county do not need the problems that they have. That's the reason I live in the county."

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"I would like to have some more info on the pros and cons of a merger"
"This is necessary for economic survival and to retain being the largest city in Kentucky. I understand that Metro Lexington is already on the verge of surpassing us."

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"____ no, we don't need to merge with a city being run by a bunch of idiots."

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"I think it is more efficient for a community that is so dependant on each other to share one government. A decrease in bureaucracy is needed."

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"It seems to me that merger is the only way Louisville will continue to be a player in the national/world economy. Being outside of Kentucky now, I find it frustrating that a city with such a great infrastructure, hardworking people, and great potential (from industry to the arts) is still viewed as a backwater. Size will change that impression and attract business, keeping our city moving forward."

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"Mr. Bratcher, We received your newsletter in the mail today. It is good to hear how you are representing the people in your district. We appreciate all your hard work. We, meaning my husband and myself, want you to continue to vote against the merger of the city and county. This merger is not good for the county...we can only see our services declining if the merger goes through. Thanks again for the work you do."

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On the effort to bring a NBA Team to Louisville
"The average worker cannot afford the prices of seeing an NBA game. If the prices were lower than maybe an average person could afford it. I heard somewhere that the price of a NBA game is arou8nd $65.00 if that is the case then I know that my family will never get to go. I believe that the money could be used else where. Like for the homeless that gave use the freedom to celebrate Independence Day. I feel that a lot of the homeless are vets. Let's help our own people before bringing in others to give them a good income by paying the players X amount of money."
"The NBA has been in decline for the past 2 years. I don't think now is the time to worry about NBA team. Now an NFL team ..... Just wishful thinking :)"
"Based on past attempts of obtaining professional and even semi-professional sports teams I fear this will be a big embarrassment. I question if the wages in this area are enough for the average person to afford the ticket prices. And as Kroger showed us during the Derby Festival, industry support is already tapped out. When I talk to my buddies about basketball the mention of U of L or U of K is, well.... I think you already know. But if a mention is made of professional basketball, no one shows any great interest."

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"____ no, we don't need an NBA team. We are taxed too much already."
"If we are ever going to be a "big time" city then we need a pro team of some kind. But I don't know if the NBA is the answer. 
"We never were able to support sport teams in the past, what's different now?"

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"The answer to this question is similar to the one above. The notoriety wrought by an NBA team will improve Louisville's national standing. The worst thing, however, would be to have a team and then lose it for lack of attendance, so make sure the demographics are there to support it."
"I think the community is too small to support an NBA team. Ticket prices in other communities are too high. We need more affordable entertainment avenues."
 
Mr. Bratcher,
I am writing to first of all thank you for your public service. I also want to express my opposition to legislation which would prevent organizations from speaking out about candidates who are running for election. This type of legislation prevents citizens of our country from being well-informed and able to make sound decisions related to our government. It also deteriorates a right that most Americans treasure, free speech. Apparently some people do not want to be spoken freely about. I also am disturbed by legislation which would give homosexuals increased rights and other citizens less right to speak openly of our religious belief that homosexuality is a sin and therefore, is wrong. I do appreciate the job you have taken on and pray God will give you strength and courage to have a positive impact on our state and country. Have you seen the movie, Amazing Grace? I think any person in political office would be inspired by it. Thank you for your time. A concerned citizen,
C. A.

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Kevin- I hear the Governor is spending the state surplus on his friends. Everyday we hear about programs that are "under-funded", not to mention the Governor's plan to expand facilities for the World Equestrian Games. WHERE IS the surplus being spent?? Yes, I am a Republican. Thanks. LH
 
Kevin, Please vote YES to KY HB 375. We need responsible legislation within this state that will supercede this obnoxious dog ordinance in Jefferson County. Kentucky is an animal friendly state - we have people who depend on their livestock to earn a living, we have the Kentucky Derby, the best State Fair in the nation, the largest All-Breed Dog Show cluster in the nation, etc.  etc. We cannot have a dog ordinance in Jefferson County that imposes upon the individual rights and civil liberties of responsible dog owners/breeders. Please vote YES on KY HB 375.
H.
 
Thank you for your letter of Feb 13 advising of the short session and asking for comments. One thing that is pending in Frankfort that is very
important to us is HB335. We strongly urge you to support HB335 as the taxes and other exhorbant prices charged to KY Pilots and Aircraft Owners is costing the sate millions every year and will not get any better unless action is taken in Frankfort to redo taxes and aviation costs.
 
Autism is a very prevalent disorder that 1 out of 150 children born today are diagnosed with. Kentucky is not funding treatment and schooling to the extent that Indiana is. Some who live in Kentucky and are faced with this problem with their child or children are considering moving to Indiana for the help that that state offers for autistic children.  What is the status of this matter in kentucky? Is it under any consideration at this time? What can you do to help these families faced with this problem?
My 4 year old grandson is autistic. He lives on Randomwood Court
in your Zip Code. He will be going into kindergarten in the Fall and his schooling will be a real problem. These kids deserve more from us who are much more fortunate.
 
Hello Representative Bratcher,
We appreciate your letter and update for current session. I
want to thank you for your service and send well wishes for the
upcoming year. The only thing I see that effects me at this time
(and you as well) is we need to do something about I-64. I know
they are going to install cable barriers but that road needs
another lane both ways. Driving from Shelbyville to Louisville in
the late afternoon is just plain dangerous. I'm sure you know
the situation. Another is why aren't the Ky. Republicans
rallying around our Governor. He is doing a terrific job.
 
Kevin, I know your Dad. I would like for you to look at state bill 10 (SB-10) this is a bill requiring state inspection of HVAC for new construction, plus replacement. The counties have been doing it already. I feel the Homebuilders plus the average homeowner are permitted and taxed to death already. I feel it would also be an added expense to the state to hire and maintain the inspectors since there is 120 counties as well as the taxpayers. Please take this in consideration when you look at this bill. I was going to talk to your Dad about it but I know he is with your brother. Thank you, Jim
 
I am one of your constituents; I live in the Reserves at Glenmary. I want to let you know of my strong support for, and encourage your
support for, HB 1 ~ which will restore funding for several important projects for U of L. It is my understanding that these items were stricken from this year's budget quite by accident, and clearly deserve to be restored.
 
I'm sure you will agree that U of L is a very important part of this community, and has taken seriously the General Assembly's directive to become a preeminent metropolitan research university. U of L does quite a bit to power the economic engine of Louisville, which keeps this state running! I love U of L, and I love Louisville! In most instances, and most assuredly in this one, what is good for U of L is also good for Louisville, and likewise good for the economic vitality of this Commonwealth. I sincerely hope you will support HB 1, which is very important to U of L.

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