FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                     CONTACT:  Chris Kellogg
September 29, 2003                                 502-564-2611

Statement from Governor Paul Patton regarding the death of Maj. General John R. Groves:

I am stunned by the untimely loss of General Groves over the weekend.  He served state government the way he lived his life-with dedication and enthusiasm.   His leadership of the Kentucky National Guard was exemplary.  He eliminated all vestiges of political favoritism and established the Kentucky Youth Challenge Program as one of the best in the nation.  He was a valued member of our cabinet for five years of our administration and will be missed.