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Clerk’s office promoting new CASA specialty plate

April is Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month, and the Hardin County Clerk’s Office is promoting the new Court Appointed Special Advocates specialty license plate as a way for the community to commit to the safety and well-being of area children.

“The CASA specialty plate is more than just a piece of metal,” said Hardin County Clerk Brian D. Smith. “It’s a moving billboard for child safety. We’re honored to provide this resource at the clerk’s office, knowing that each plate sold helps provide a voice for a child in the family court system who needs it most.”

According to the clerk’s office, the CASA plate is $44 to issue and “features the recognizable blue and white branding of the organization, which provides highly-trained volunteers to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children within the court system.”

“We are thrilled to see the CASA mission represented on vehicles throughout Hardin County and the state,” said CASA of the Heartland Executive Director Michelle Kail.

A portion of the $44 issue fee goes towards supporting CASA organizations.

“The funds generated from these plates are vital,” Kail said. “They allow us to expand our reach and ensure that every child in need of a CASA has a dedicated advocate in their corner as they navigate the court system. This month, as we wear blue and share our mission, we encourage everyone to consider changing their plate to help change a child’s story.”

Contact your county clerk’s office or visit drive.ky.gov for more information on switching to the CASA plate. Learn more about CASA of the Heartland at www.casaheartland.org.

EPD hosting victims’ rights resource fair and 5K

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is April 19 through 25, and the Elizabethtown Police Department is giving the community the opportunity to “listen, act, and advocate.”

“On Monday, April 20, we are hosting a community resource fair beginning at 5:30 p.m. followed by a 5K run/walk at 6:30 at the ElizabethTown Sports Park in recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week,” said EPD Public Information Officer Chris Denham. “This event is free to attend and is a great opportunity for citizens to stand alongside crime victims while learning about resources available in our community. Beach Snow Snack Shack will also be on site providing free treats for participants.”

The registration link for the 5K can be accessed via the QR code on the event poster, which is posted on the Elizabethtown Police Department Facebook page. Contact EPD Victims Services Specialist Anesha Knott for more information.

New state maps help you explore new areas of Kentucky

Kentuckians looking to hit the road this summer can find somewhere new to explore with the new state highway maps that debuted this month.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet says the new Team Kentucky 2026-2027 Highway Map showcases historic horse landscapes, diverse trails, and accessible attractions which the KYTC says show that no matter where you land in the commonwealth, adventure and entertainment awaits.

Created in collaboration between the KYTC and the Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet, the new maps offer traditional map features for Kentuckians looking for unplugged navigation while highlighting eclectic entertainment as well as ADA-acceccible attractions, themed trails, and festivals and events.

The map includes primary and secondary roads, parks and trails locations, Kentucky State Police posts, weigh stations, and more. The map highlights destinations unique to Kentucky such as natural stone arches, the Country Music Highway on U.S. 23, bourbon distilleries, and museums and attractions celebrating horse racing.

The new state highway maps can be found at Kentucky rest areas and welcome centers. You can download an electronic copy or request a printed copy at transportation.ky.gov.