Jim Carroll

(502) 564-8110, ext. 307

Jim.Carroll@ky.gov

         FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 20, 2004) -- Commerce Secretary W. James Host today announced a new policy that will result in more Kentucky-made items being sold in Kentucky state park gift shops.

   “We need to support our own businesses,” Host said. “This new policy will ensure that our gift shops are showcases for items made right here in the Commonwealth.”

   Host said the cabinet will draw on the expertise of the staff of the new Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea to seek out in-state vendors. The center, like the Department of Parks, is a part of the newly created Commerce Cabinet.

      The department will first locate any Kentucky vendors before buying any items for the gift shops. Only after ensuring that a product is not available from a Kentucky firm will the department stock a popular item made elsewhere.

   The Department of Parks operates 34 gift shops in all, including one at each of 17 resorts.

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