By Bill Bartleman, The Paducah Sun, Ky. Jul. 30--Gov. Steve Beshear will cut ribbons, hand out checks and make political speeches throughout the region on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The events are centered around Saturday's 128th Fancy Farm Picnic.

By Steve Vantreese, The Paducah Sun, Ky. Jul. 26--If President George Bush will sign legislation permanently restoring a long-standing exemption, recreational boaters won't have to purchase an additional permit under the Clean Water Act.

By Steve Vantreese, The Paducah Sun, Ky. Jul. 12--U.S. Rep Ed Whitfield, R-Hopkinsville, said Friday he plans an August meeting in the Lake Barkley area to seek a consensus on water level management of Barkley and Kentucky Lake.

By Steve Vantreese, The Paducah Sun, Ky. Jun. 14--Revolting gasoline prices are beginning to make boating by sail or paddle power look even better.

By Bill Bartleman, The Paducah Sun, Ky. Jun. 4--The company that proposed a $3 billion coal-to-diesel plant in Cairo, Ill., last year has filed an application with the Kentucky Economic Development Cabinet seeking incentives for an undisclosed project in McCracken County.