Support Fund Created For Injured Distillery Workers

For Immediate Release – April 27, 2015

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Kentucky Distillers’ Association announced today that a support fund has been created to assist two distillery workers injured in a Friday explosion and fire in Western Kentucky.

Jay Rogers, Second Distiller at Silver Trail Distillery, and his assistant and cousin, Kyle Rogers, remain in critical but stable condition at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tenn. Both sustained severe burns, but are steadily improving.

“Lifting Spirits – Jay & Kyle Rogers Support Fund” has been established at CFSB Bank in Benton, Ky., to assist with any medical or necessary expenses. Contributions can be mailed to P.O. Box 467, Benton, Ky., 42025.

The KDA also is finalizing an online donation option on its website at www.kybourbon.com.

“Jay and Kyle’s families have been humbled by the outpouring of support,” KDA President Eric Gregory said. “They asked us to pass along their thanks for everyone’s thoughts, prayers and generosity.”

On Friday, April 24, Silver Trail Distillery in Marshall County experienced what appears to be a massive equipment failure, resulting in an explosion and fire that destroyed the facility. The official cause has not been determined.

Gregory said the KDA’s 27 members are working to coordinate tastings and other events to raise money for the support fund. Details should be announced soon. Check www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com for more information.

“Jay and Kyle are doing better, but they still have a long way to go,” Gregory said. “Please keep them in your prayers, and remember Silver Trail Founder and Master Distiller Spencer Balentine and his family during this difficult time.”

The KDA, a non-profit trade association founded in 1880, is the state’s voice for Bourbon and distilled spirits issues. Its mission includes governmental and regulatory advocacy, technical assistance, international trade development, media relations, economic development support, legal defense and integrated marketing strategies.

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For more information, contact KDA President Eric Gregory at (502) 875-9351.