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Bevin Stops Issuing 'Kentucky Colonel' Titles to Review Requirements

Matt Markgraf, WKMS

Governor Matt Bevin is reviewing what it takes to be commissioned as a “Kentucky Colonel.” The governor’s spokeswoman Jessica Ditto says Bevin has temporarily stopped issuing commissions pending a review of the requirements necessary to receive the honor. She says he wants to make sure the title remains significant.

The title of Kentucky Colonel dates back to the early 19th century, when Kentucky had a volunteer militia. Today, the governor often bestows the title to honor a person’s good deeds or service. According to The Honorable Order of the Kentucky Colonels there are approximately 85,000 with the title.

Elvis Presley  and Bill Clinton are Kentucky Colonels, so are some of the members of WKMS staff, including Chad Lampe, Todd Hatton and Dave Shinall.

Matt Markgraf joined the WKMS team as a student in January 2007. He's served in a variety of roles over the years: as News Director March 2016-September 2019 and previously as the New Media & Promotions Coordinator beginning in 2011. Prior to that, he was a graduate and undergraduate assistant. He is currently the host of the international music show Imported on Sunday nights at 10 p.m.
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