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Associated Press
20-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
UniFirst's Owensboro Earns OSHA's VPP Star Certification and Governor's Health and Safety Award
WILMINGTON, Mass., May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- UniFirst Corporation (NYSE:UNF), a North American leader in providing customized business uniform programs, facility service products and first aid and safety services, proudly announces that its Owensboro Distribution and Fulfillment Center in Kentucky has achieved two major safety milestones. UniFirst has once again received the Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) Star certification from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and it has also been honored with the prestigious Governor's Safety and Health Award, presented by Gov. Andy Beshear, Kentucky. The VPP Star certification, OSHA's highest recognition for workplace safety and health practices, is awarded to organizations demonstrating exceptional commitment to safety. Additionally, the Governor's Safety and Health Award recognizes workplaces that have exceeded 1,000,000 hours without a lost time incident, showcasing the extraordinary measures taken to foster a positive and effective safety culture. UniFirst's Owensboro Distribution Center has now earned the esteemed Governor's honor for the fourth time, with previous recognition in 2010, 2020, and 2022, validating UniFirst's commitment to employee safety and operational excellence. 'Our dedicated Team Partners are the reason we've been able to achieve these incredible safety milestones,' said Michael Gunter, Safety Engineer, UniFirst–Owensboro. 'Success in safety doesn't happen by chance; it's the result of diligent efforts, daily teamwork, and a deep belief in the value of our safety programs. Whether we're tracking hazards, conducting team-led audits, or coming up with innovative safety enhancements, every Team Partner plays a crucial role in ensuring everyone goes home safe.' The VPP certification process is rigorous, involving thorough evaluations and on-site audits conducted by Kentucky OSHA experts, alongside comprehensive employee surveys to verify a strong safety-first culture. Achieving over 1,000,000 hours worked without a lost time incident reflects an adherence to strict safety protocols and a collaborative mindset in maintaining workplace safety. For UniFirst, these honors serve as vital benchmarks of its proactive safety measures and dedication to protecting its workforce. 'Receiving the Governor's Safety and Health Award for the fourth time proves how deeply ingrained safety is in everything we do,' said Kerry Bailey, Human Resource Manager, UniFirst—Owensboro. 'It's about creating an environment where every employee feels empowered to prioritize safety. To reach this level of recognition again is a testament to the hard work and dedication of every Owensboro Team Partner.' Dan Getter, Sr. Manager of Safety Operations, UniFirst, added, 'Our Team Partners embody the culture of safety we have worked so hard to build. From identifying potential risks to participating in regular audits and reviews, achieving both the VPP Star certification and the Governor's Safety and Health Award is proof that safety is truly a shared responsibility and an intentional daily effort.' The Owensboro facility's commitment to safety includes, ongoing bi-weekly plant audits, quarterly evaluations across 25 operational areas, and direct contributions from Team Partners. These practices have positioned UniFirst as a leader in workplace safety and culture, setting a standard in Kentucky as well as across North America. These safety achievements coincide with the company's groundbreaking of a 109,000-square-foot expansion project at the Owensboro Distribution Center. The expansion, which will bring the facility's total footprint to nearly half a million square feet, has received recognition and support from Gov. Beshear, further underscoring its importance in the region. Together, these safety honors and infrastructure projects exemplify UniFirst's ongoing investment in its people and operations. To learn more about the OSHA Voluntary Protection Program and its importance in fostering workplace safety, visit OSHA's VPP website. For more information about UniFirst Corporation and its award-winning services, visit About UniFirst Headquartered in Wilmington, Mass., UniFirst Corporation (NYSE: UNF) is a North American leader in the supply and servicing of uniform and workwear programs, facility service products, as well as first aid and safety supplies and services. Together with its subsidiaries, the company also manages specialized garment programs for the cleanroom and nuclear industries. In addition to partnering with leading brands, UniFirst manufactures its own branded workwear, protective clothing, and floorcare products at its three company-owned ISO-9001 certified manufacturing facilities. With more than 270 service locations, over 300,000 customer locations, and 16,000-plus employee Team Partners, the Company outfits more than 2 million workers every day. For additional information, contact UniFirst at 888.296.2740 or visit Follow UniFirst on Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE UNIFIRST CORPORATION
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
19 people who died in KY storms have been identified. What we know about them
Saturday night Laurel County Coroner Doug Bowling and Pulaski County Coroner Clyde Strunk identified 18 confirmed victims of severe storms and a tornado that swept Kentucky late Friday into early Saturday. As of a 5 p.m. Saturday press conference, 10 additional victims remain hospitalized in critical condition, with more individuals receiving treatment for less severe injuries, according to Gov. Andy Beshear. Three remained in critical condition at UK HealthCare as of Sunday afternoon, the governor later said, four are considered in fair condition and three others in good condition. Beshear said in a Facebook post around 2 p.m. Sunday that a 19th victim, later identified as Indiana resident Debra Edelman, 93, had died in Russell County in the storm. As word spread of the deaths, tributes began appearing on social media, and some family members and friends additionally provided information to the Herald-Leader. Here's what we know about those who died in the storm. Tornado confirmed in Russell County during KY storms. Assessments continue Richard 'Dickie,' 73, and Wanda McFall, 66: Daughter-in-law Jaclynn England said the couple were a joy to their community and loved to help others. Dickie had served in the U.S. Marine Corps. and was an active member of the Disabled American Veterans. Wanda was a chaplain for the DAV auxiliary. They took on the role of Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus at their church at Christmas celebrations. 'Even through the hard times they had love for each other and their family. They stood strong in Christ,' England said. 'We want people to know what wonderful spirits they were. They were not only a vital vein in our family but also the community,' she said. 'They strived to help anyone in need they could and found joy in it. At Christmas they enjoyed making children laugh and the rest of the year they helped honor our veterans like Richard who served in the USMC.' June Fisher: Fisher was one of the kindest and most gracious ladies I have met,' said Debbie Gilbert, who works with a group called IGOT Community that holds events for those 55 and older. 'Not only was June a beautiful lady outside, she was a beautiful soul from the inside. I have always believed at true lady has the ability to be noticed, without trying to be noticed, and for sure that was June,' Gilbert said. Nancy Clem, 69: Clem's niece, Nancy Edwards Carnahan, said in a message Clem worked for years in the environmental services department at AdventHealth Manchester, a hospital. 'She loved to laugh and have a good time, she was loved by so many,' Carnahan said. 'One of her most cherished accomplishments was she got her GED as an adult, she loved to travel with family and friends and was always ready for a trip.' In a message, Clem's daughter Elaine Thompson said, 'She was the most helpful and caring woman --and strongest woman-- I have ever known.' Thompson said her mother had 'fought many battles in life and was fighting when she was taken. She always caring for others no matter what it took she was always there she never ever had that much but she always made a way for others and her family.' Thompson said Clem was on kidney dialysis at the time. Clem worked at the Manchester hospital for eight years in housekeeping and was a part of the committee that came up with ideas to make things better for patients. One holiday, Clem made candy bags and gave it to all the patients on her floor, Thompson said. Sherri Smith, 68: Sherri Smith was a retired Clay County High School teacher, Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers said. In a Facebook post, school officials said, 'Clay County High School is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of our retired English teacher, Ms. Sherri Smith. Known to her students as Ms. Sherri, Sherri truly loved literature, plays, and more importantly, her students. She was always delighted to see them, greeted everyone with a smile, and she made everyone feel welcome.' A former student said in a post, 'She was my favorite teacher. A few things about her: she loved the kids that had issues beyond what education could fix. Her quick wit would put out a sour mood and her Diet Coke tucked away in her desk drawer would push her through day after day. She taught many students that didn't like school and didn't want to be there. She listened, loved and gave great advice. ' Darlene Miller, 67: Darlene Miller was named among the victims of the weekend storms. 'Darlene Miller was one the most compassionate and giving person I know,' Joann Seals, who said she was Miller's best friend, told the Herald-Leader. 'She was a caregiver in a nursing home for about 40 years. She was caring, loving, funny and she was loved by so many.' 'She fed the hungry and she clothed the naked and she visited the sick. She did her best to help everyone she could. She was a Christian and she loved Jesus,' Seals said. Tiffany Heim, 48: Heim was among the victims confirmed dead Saturday in Laurel County. 'You will always be remembered for your spunky personality, beautiful love of flowers and wild hair,' a friend posted on social media. 'RIP girl.' Kenneth Elliott, 63: Elliott and his girlfriend Lisa Fortney died when a suspected tornado hit their Laurel County apartment building, the Herald-Leader confirmed early Saturday. Elliott's niece Sabrina Elliott said in a Facebook post Elliott was a 'quiet, kind soul.' 'A gentle presence with a goofy streak that made people smile. And now he's gone --just like that. It doesn't seem real,' she said in the post. His nephew, David Elliott, also remembered him fondly. 'Kenny was a big family person, (a) really funny and loving man, he loved being outside,' David Elliott told the Herald-Leader. 'He also mowed yards for a living and adored animals,' David Elliott said. Bobby, 76, and Bernice Tillman, 73: The Tillmans were also among the Laurel County victims. 'If they considered you to be family, you were blessed,' a friend said in a post on Facebook. Lisa Fortney, 51: Katie Fortney told the Herald-Leader in a message Saturday morning that her mother, Lisa, was among those who died in the tornado in Laurel County along with boyfriend Kenneth Elliott. 'Above all, she was known for her unwavering work ethic and dedication—a true hard worker in every sense,' her daughter said. Lisa Fortney was a lifelong resident of London, growing up in the heart of downtown, where she built memories and lasting connections. 'I would want people to remember her for her kind heart and her ability to do the best she could, no matter the circumstances. She loved her family deeply. Her compassion extended to all living creatures—she loved any animal that breathed,' Katie Fortney said. Roger Leslie Leatherman, 57: The Laurel County Fire Department confirmed Saturday afternoon one of its own, Maj. Roger Leslie Leatherman, was fatally injured while reportedly responding to a tornado in the area. 'Major Leatherman was a dedicated public servant for 39 years, answering the call to protect and help others in their critical time of need. His courage, commitment, and sacrifice will never be forgotten,' the department said in a Facebook post. Laurel County Fire Department Chief Shane Lynch told the Herald-Leader he believes Leatherman was trying to respond to a neighbor's home in Sunshine Hills when he died. He was found outside his storm-damaged home. Leatherman's wife, who has not been identified, was also injured and is reportedly hospitalized. Melody Godby, 68: Godby lived in the Poplarville community on the the eastern side of Pulaski County, that county's coroner confirmed late Saturday. Strunk said Godby's house 'exploded' during the storm. Her body was found in debris in her yard, he said. Godby died as a result of blunt force trauma. Debra Edelman, 93: Russell County Coroner Mark Coots identified Edelman, of Richmond, Indiana, as the 19th victim Sunday afternoon. Coots said Edelman was staying on her houseboat at State Boat Dock in Russell County when she died Saturday. The electricity had been off as a result of storms that hit Russell County, Coots said. Edelman asked someone to turn on her generator Saturday morning, and she later died of carbon monoxide poisoning, according to preliminary findings. The Herald-Leader is working to get more information and speak with the friends and family of all confirmed victims. No information was immediately available for Marshall Miracle, 25, Ray Cowan, 88, Linda Sweet, 72, Gary Sweet, 71, and Pam Mason, 67.
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Want to help Kentucky residents impacted by deadly tornadoes? Here are ways to assist
After tornadoes and other severe storms devastated Kentucky on May 16 and 17, several organizations have opened disaster relief funds and volunteering opportunities for those willing to provide a helping hand. In southeastern Kentucky, where at least 18 people are dead from the storms and others are displaced from their homes, volunteers can assist with debris cleanup and meal preparation. Donations are also being accepted. Here's how you can help Kentuckians in the aftermath of the deadly storms. The Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund established by Gov. Andy Beshear is accepting donations for those impacted by severe storms in 2025. All donations to the fund are tax-deductible, and donors will receive a receipt for tax purposes after donating. Those interested in donating to the fund can do so online or by mail. If sending a check, include "Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund" in the memo line and mail to: Public Protection Cabinet, 500 Mero Street, 218 NC, Frankfort, KY 40601. Donate online at United Way of Laurel County's long-term disaster relief fund is the official fund for the City of London and Laurel County government, city officials stated in a Facebook post. Those who are interested in donating to United Way's fund can do so online, by mail and in person at the London Community Center or any Community Trust Bank location. Checks can be made payable to United Way of Laurel County and can be mailed to PO Box 5004, London, KY 40743. In the memo line, write "Tornado Relief." Donate online at Laurel County residents looking to receive United Way funds should apply in person at a disaster relief site, London city officials stated. Members of the Salvation Army are providing hot meals, beverages, snacks, and emotional and spiritual care to Laurel and Pulaski residents impacted by the tornadoes, Eric Short, public information officer for the organization, stated in a news release. A Danville-based mobile kitchen unit stationed in Somerset is providing meals to first responders and residents displaced due to the recent storms there, Short said. A truckload of food and catering supplies from Louisville was bound for London on May 18. Short said the Salvation Army's emergency response services in southeastern Kentucky are made possible through public donations. "Financial contributions are the most effective way to support disaster response, ensuring that resources can be quickly allocated to areas of greatest need," he said. Donations to the Salvation Army can be made: Online: By phone: 1-800-725-2769 By mail: Checks can be sent to: The Salvation ArmyPO Box 436437Louisville, Kentucky 40253Include "May 2025 KY Tornadoes" in the memo line Samaritan's Purse, a Christian humanitarian aid organization, is deploying volunteers to Laurel County from May 19 through June 7, according to a job posting online. Volunteers are needed for debris cleanup, tree work and roof tarping, among other things. Volunteers who are coming to stay in Laurel County overnight are expected to serve at least three days and can assist with recovery efforts for a maximum of two weeks, according to the post. The typical work schedule is Monday through Saturday, and limited work hours on Sundays may be needed. Meals, tools and sleeping quarters are provided to overnight volunteers, though they will need to bring their own air mattress or cot, towels and personal hygiene items. Volunteers can serve one day only if they wish. They would need to select the "day" option on their application. The base of operations for the disaster relief unit is at Calvary Baptist Church, 111 N. McWhorter St. in London, Kentucky. More: At least 18 dead in Kentucky tornadoes. What we know as cleanup, storm surveys continue Reach reporter Leo Bertucci at lbertucci@ or @leober2chee on X, formerly known as Twitter This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky tornadoes: How to help residents affected by storm damages
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
At least 18 dead in Kentucky tornadoes. What we know as cleanup, storm surveys continue
More than a dozen people are dead in southeastern Kentucky from strong tornadoes May 16 and 17, state and local officials said. Heavy damage was reported in Pulaski and Laurel counties, where Laurel County Sheriff John Root said a tornado tore through the area just before midnight. Previous coverage: At least 18 killed, others injured in storms in Kentucky Here is what we know about tornado and storm damages throughout Kentucky. At least 18 people have died from tornadoes in Kentucky, Gov. Andy Beshear said during a press conference May 17. Earlier that day, London Mayor Randall Weddle said 23 people had died in Laurel County alone, citing information from the Laurel County Communications Center. More: Beshear: At least 18 killed, 10 in critical condition after tornado hits Kentucky Beshear said "there are other figures out there" for the death toll, but the state must follow an official process through the Department for Public Health. "So there may be more," he said. Beshear added at least 10 people are in critical condition, and others are still receiving medical care. "This was a devastatingly strong tornado that tore through a subdivision in the middle of the night, and that is the worst type of natural disaster," Beshear said. Of the 18 deaths reported by Beshear, 17 were in Laurel County and one was in Pulaski County. In a Facebook post, the Laurel County Fire Department shared Maj. Roger Leslie Leatherman died after he was injured while responding to the reported tornado. Beshear said the 18 victims were: A woman in Pulaski County, age unknown Two men in Laurel County, age unknown A 76-year-old man in Laurel County A 74-year-old woman in Laurel County A 73-year-old man in Laurel County Two 72-year-old women in Laurel County A 71-year-old man in Laurel County A 69-year-old woman in Laurel County A 68-year-old woman in Laurel County Two 67-year-old women in Laurel County A 65-year-old woman in Laurel County A 63-year-old woman in Laurel County A 51-year-old woman in Laurel County A 48-year-old woman in Laurel County A 25-year-old man in Laurel County An EF-3 tornado with maximum wind gusts of 155 mph was determined from a preliminary survey of a May 16 storm in Morganfield, officials with the National Weather Service in Paducah stated in a Facebook post May 17. Additional surveys were planned for May 18. State officials have reported other tornadoes in Laurel and Pulaski counties, with Beshear saying the tornado that struck Somerset in Pulaski was at least an EF-3. No life-threatening injuries have been reported in Louisville, Mayor Craig Greenberg stated in a post on X, formerly Twitter. Tree damages were reported throughout the city, and at least four people were injured when a tree fell on their house. About 12,500 LG&E and KU customers were without power just after 9 a.m. May 18, according to the company's online tracker, down from the over 45,000 outages reported the morning of May 17. Laurel and Pulaski counties are in southeastern Kentucky. The counties share a border with each other and both include parts of the the sprawling Daniel Boone National Forest. Over 62,000 people lived in Laurel County during the latest census in 2020, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pulaski County's population was over 65,000. London is the county seat of Laurel County, while Somerset is the seat of Pulaski County. Stephanie Kuzydym, Hannah Pinski and Bailey Loosemore contributed reporting. Reach reporter Leo Bertucci at lbertucci@ or @leober2chee on X, formerly known as Twitter This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky tornadoes: What we know about deaths, tornado rating, damages
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
At least 18 people are dead in overnight KY storms. How you can help survivors
Officials in Laurel County said they are taking donations for storm victims and need volunteers to help coordinate relief efforts. At least 18 people are confirmed dead across Kentucky as of Saturday afternoon following a wave of overnight storms and with at least one unconfirmed tornado destroying homes in Somerset and London. Laurel County Sheriff officials said they are currently taking donations to help survivors, including personal hygiene products and food. Those supplies can be dropped off at London First Baptist Church at 804 W. Fifth St. 'We need volunteers to work at the give away point at 201 South Laurel Road at South Laurel High School,' Laurel County Sheriff Deputy Gilbert Acciardo said around 1 p.m. Saturday. Other places are also opening their doors in hard hit Laurel and Pulaski counties. The Palace Family Entertainment Center in London said in a Facebook post it is accepting water, nonperishable food and cleaning supplies. It was also open if people who have lost their homes needed respite or a place for their kids to play. Somerset police are asking people to stay away from areas affected by the storms as debris clean up and search and rescue efforts continue, according to a Facebook post. The state has not yet announced an official fundraiser for victims, but Gov. Andy Beshear is set to make an address at 5 p.m. State-sponsored relief funds have been established for previous storms, including the 2021 tornadoes that hit Western Kentucky. If you are considering making a donation, particularly an online monetary donation, be wary of disaster scams. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau recommends you: Identify who you are donating to Don't feel pressured to give immediately Be wary of price gouging Don't give out personal information Stay up to date on scams in your area or related to the disaster Be on the lookout for fake charities This is a developing story.
