Outstanding achievements in Kentucky history will be recognized during the 2009 Kentucky History Awards Ceremony, scheduled for 5 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History in downtown Frankfort.

The Kentucky Historical Society program recognizes outstanding achievements by individuals, business and civic leaders, communities, museums, and history organizations throughout the commonwealth in the field of history.  Those projects and individuals that have demonstrated exceptional efforts to promote the preservation, awareness, and appreciation of state and local history will be honored.

“We are delighted by the opportunity to honor those who strive to preserve Kentucky’s story,” said KHS Executive Director Kent Whitworth.

Tickets for the dinner are $30 for members of the Kentucky Historical Society and $35 for non-members.  To make a reservation, contact Julia Curry at 502-564-1792, ext. 4414, or at Julia.Curry@ky.gov.

Award categories include Service Awards, Special Awards, and General Awards. Within these categories are many honors, including the Outstanding Museum or History Organization of the Year, which is presented to a museum or organization for exceptional achievement throughout the year, the Frank R. Levstik Award for Professional Service honoring the contributions of a current or recently retired paid staff member of a museum or history-related organization, and the Lifetime Dedication to Kentucky History Award.

For more information about the Kentucky History Awards, please contact Chris Goodlett at chris.goodlett@ky.gov or Ann Johnson at anng.johnson@ky.gov.

An agency of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, the Kentucky Historical Society, since 1836, has provided connections to the past, perspective on the present, and inspiration for the future.  KHS operates the Old State Capitol, the Kentucky Military History Museum, and its headquarters, the Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History.   Since 1999, the thirty-million-dollar Center has welcomed more than one million visitors.   For more information about the Kentucky Historical Society and its programs, visit the Web site at www.history.ky.gov.