Kentuckians who have disabilities and live in rural areas are urged to attend a one-day training conference in Lexington March 14.

The conference, which is sponsored by Kentucky AgrAbility and Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital, features programs and information on such topics as rural life and diabetes, rural disability resources, assistance dogs, and rural implications of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

“This conference is for anyone who believes they can benefit from this kind of information, including farmers and their families, Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service professionals, rehabilitation service providers, community leaders or members of the general public,” said Kathy Sheppard-Jones, training coordinator with Kentucky AgrAbility.

Other program highlights include a discussion of rural assistive technology, accessible horticulture, the Project ASSET Kentucky self-employment initiative, and a farmer panel.

“Our farmer panel features two individuals with disabilities who will explore some of the real situations and issues confronting themselves and other people, and how these individuals are choosing to continue their family traditions in farming,” said Sheppard-Jones.

The conference, titled “The Rural Landscape: Rural Life and Disability Kentucky AgrAbility Training Conference,” will be held at the Cardinal Hill Hospital Center for Learning, 2050 Versailles Road in Lexington.  Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, March 14, 2003.  The cost per person is $20, and advance registration is encouraged.

“We are offering a few scholarships for farmers and farm families, so we urge people to notify us as soon as possible if they’re planning to attend,” said Sheppard-Jones.

To register contact Sandra Bellows, Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital, 2050 Versailles Rd., Lexington, KY 40504, or call 859-367-7189.