Blue Ribbon Dolls

For Immediate Release
April 23, 1998
Contact: Mark Pfeiffer (502) 564-2611
Kristen Miller

Governor Patton and First Lady Unveil Blue Ribbon Dolls

Frankfort, Ky. - Governor Paul Patton appeared this morning in the Capitol Rotunda, not wearing his trademark red tie, but sporting a brightly-colored tie decorated with the smiling faces of cartoon children. He made the change for a special press conference he held with First Lady Judi Patton in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month.

The Governor said, "On April 1st, I declared this month Child Abuse Prevention Month. I did that to give a strong message from this Capitol that we will not tolerate the maltreatment of children in the Commonwealth." The Governor and Mrs. Patton were on hand to unveil the new Blue Ribbon Dolls for Kentucky's Kids, created by Liz Davis. Davis is a juried artist in the Kentucky Craft Marketing Program.

Mrs. Patton, who has put the spotlight on child abuse prevention as First Lady, said, "These (dolls) will be a constant reminder to those who see them that childhoods are meant for sharing secrets, for telling stories with friends, and yes, for dolls. It is no time for child abuse."

The Governor, addressing legislation passed in this year's General Assembly to protect children, said, "This is legislation which will mean fewer children wake up afraid to face each day, and fewer children will remain in abusive homes wondering why no one cares. Most important of all, it will mean that fewer children in Kentucky lose their lives to child abuse and neglect."

Funds from the sale of the dolls will be used for programs across the state that serve children or strive to put an end to child abuse. They cost $30.00, and are available through the Governor's Office for Child Abuse and Domestic Violence Services at (502) 564-2611.

The Governor and Mrs. Patton also congratulated student winners in the Child Abuse Prevention essay and button contest with the help of University of Kentucky basketball player Jamal Magloire. Donald Williams of Henderson won the essay contest, and the button contest award went to Amber Lee of Owensboro.

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