"Put People First!"

Greetings! So much has occurred since the last issue of KAG Notes. Kentucky has a new Governor, the General Assembly is making law and policy in Frankfort, the Presidential Primary has become very interesting and heated, gas prices are at a record high, many of us are wondering if and when things will change for the better—and, of course, there is more: more complaints, more concerns, more worries, more problems. What about more solutions? One thing is for certain: things will never change unless the voice of the people is heard loud and clear in the right places.

As you read through this newsletter, take note of the information concerning legislative issues and the advocacy efforts taking place in Frankfort. The critical issue this year is the budget and the desire of policy makers to cut critical human, social and health services. It is imperative that we speak loudly and clearly to those who make laws and public policy that it is time to “Put People First” and not consider them a line item on the budget to be cut. Kentucky cannot afford to lose ground with its health and human service network; it is imperative that we continue to move forward. The message must continue through the advocates—from all human and health service arenas, consumers, family, and concerned citizens— that increases to these programs and services are necessary, not cuts.  Assuring the continued development, growth, evolvement and expansion of this network of services and care is an investment for Kentucky, not a cost that fuels the deficit or “the budget crisis.” To not invest in these critical service networks will ultimately lead to more costly service, increased spending, and more budget deficit issues.

The Kentucky Association for Gerontology, along with many of its partners and friends, has a mission to continue to support advocacy efforts locally, statewide and nationally. It is the voice of the people that makes the difference and facilitates positive change on behalf of the Commonwealth. This unified voice is not self serving, but it is powerful and with time, patience and perseverance it produces remarkable results. This KAG Notes issue will be in your hands or on your computer screen before the Kentucky General Assembly has adjourned for 2008. This is a call for all advocates, seniors, caregivers, volunteers, professionals, concerned citizens, and the community at large to become aware of the issues, understand the cause, “Put People First,” and let your voice resound in the halls of the Capital and the streets of Frankfort. Use the information in this newsletter to educate yourself; visit the websites of KAG or AARP to become familiar with the issues and obtain contact information; e-mail or call your legislators and the Governor; and/or visit Frankfort. Join in the effort to assure that all people of the Commonwealth of Kentucky can live in the community environment of their choice.