Monday, February 17^th, 2014 Carl D. Perkins Office Administration student Dimitri Bien-Aime and Culinary Arts student Jazzmine Mathis got the opportunity to learn about Kentucky’s “Appalachia Proud”, when they traveled to Hindman, Kentucky with Perkins Business Community Liaison Jimmie Slone, to attend the unveiling of the states “Appalachia Proud” brand to boost agriculture in Eastern Kentucky.

The students got to hear from Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner James Comer, U.S. Senate Republican Leader, Mitch McConnell and U.S. Sen. Rand Paul where they discussed the revitalization of Eastern Kentucky’s economy through agriculture and getting the young people involved by working with community colleges, high schools and activating FFA chapters in every school district in the region. Students also got to visit several local Kentucky vendors from 37 different counties. The vendors offered products made in their county; the products included but limited to honey, jams, candy, locally grown produce and crafts.

Students Dimitri Bien-aime and Jazzmine Mathis both stated “That they have a better understanding of Kentucky’s Culture by attending this event”. The students also had an opportunity to talk with U.S Senate Leader Mitch McConnell and U.S. Sen. Rand Paul about their accomplishments while attending the Carl D. Perkins Job Corps Center and their future plans once completing the program.