Kentucky Transportation Cabinet

Office of Public Affairs

For Immediate Release

Media contact: Chuck Wolfe
502-564-3419

Governor Beshear unveils Friends of Coal License Plate
Plate reminds motorists that ‘Coal Keeps the Lights On!’

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 12, 2009) — Gov. Steve Beshear joined lawmakers and members of the coal industry today to unveil the Friends of Coal license plate.

The new license plate is currently on sale in county clerk offices across Kentucky. The plate’s concept was introduced by Jean Scruggs from James River Coal company.

“Kentucky owes a lot to coal. Coal creates over 17,000 jobs, 90-plus percent of our electricity and more than a billion dollars in direct wages,” said Gov. Beshear. “The Friends of Coal specialty plate gives drivers in the Bluegrass a chance to show their appreciation for the mineral and those who mine it.”

The Friends of Coal is a volunteer organization, with members from Kentucky and beyond, dedicated to informing and educating citizens about the importance of the coal industry.

“Our goal is to provide a united voice for an industry that has been and remains a critical economic contributor to Kentucky,” said Bill Caylor, president of the Kentucky Coal Association. “By working together, we can provide good jobs and benefits for future generations, which will keep our children and grandchildren close to home. This plate reminds us of these endeavors.”

Information about Friends of Coal is available at http://www.friendsofcoalky.com/index.cfm.

###