ANNVILLE, KY -- U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) joined Operation UNITE on Monday, August 5, 2013 to visit a drug-free educational program located at the Triple R Ranch in Jackson County called "Cowboy Up for Christ."  Community leaders use equestrian activities to teach young people about the dangers of drugs each week. 

"The answer to the drug epidemic is not in government, it's right here," said Rogers. "This is ground zero, where we can have the greatest impact on our young people through education and you're doing great work."

"Cowboy Up for Christ" is operated by Brad and Kim Hornsby near Annville, Kentucky where more than 100 children learn about caring for horses and equestrian events every week. The couple's faith-based mission is designed to help young people find interest in positive activities.

"This ranch was once the site of a drug dealer's operations, but after Operation UNITE successfully put an end to the illegal activity several years ago, the Hornsby family had a greater vision and turned this place into an impressive ranch to change lives," said Rogers.

Rogers presented the Hornsby family with a "Difference Maker Award" for their efforts in the fight against the drug epidemic in our region. 

Hundreds of people visit the ranch every month from Jackson and surrounding counties, along with visitors from across the nation. 

Rogers encouraged community leaders to continue their efforts to provide positive alternatives for young people through programs like PRIDE and UNITE. He commended the efforts of PRIDE Spring Clean-up volunteers in Jackson County where 1,379 volunteers cleaned up 110 tons of trash, collected 140 old tires, 4.04 tons of appliances and cleaned 259 miles of roadway. 

Rogers presented the 2013 PRIDE Spring Clean-Up first runner-up award for "Greatest Volunteer Participation" to Jackson County. Solid Waste Coordinator, Barry Spivey accepted the award for Jackson County.