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Fight To Keep Congressman's Name On Highway Signs

In the latest development in the controversial name change of an east Kentucky highway, the House committee has voted to accept a proposal that would rename the highway again.  It won't be the Daniel Boone Parkway of old, however. Under the committee's joint resolution, Boone would have to share the billing with U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers, who in a long congressional career has made the region a magnet for federal highway dollars.  The resolution would require the road to be renamed the Daniel Boone-Hal Rogers Parkway.  Last year, Boone's name was removed from all highway signs and the road was re-named the Hal Rogers Parkway.  Early on, press reports indicated that the decedents of Daniel Boone were upset about the name change, however the most opposition has come from people that live in East Kentucky.  Their biggest complaint appears to be their lack of say in the matter and the fact that the issue was never brought up for a public vote.  

 
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  "Seems to me the people of Kentucky are speaking but apparently the House committee isn't listening.  Sounds loud and clear to me,  keep it 'Daniel Boone Parkway.'  Pave a road up some holler and call it Hal Rogers Parkway."  Polly Hoover, Palmyra, VA

  "Once again, the politicians have helped themselves without consulting the people they represent.  Hal Rogers may not have been responsible for changing the name of the Daniel Boone parkway but he can damn sure be responsible for changing it back before his road signs get torn down along with what's left of his reputation.  Stand up, Hal.  Be a man.  JWL,  Hazard, KY

  "It will ALWAYS be the Daniel Boone Parkway--don't let another politician buy an ego trip with tax dollars.  Check out how much each of those 'Hal Rogers' signs costs-not to mention the pay for man hours to put them up--you'll be amazed!"  Patsy Walker Foister

  "I am a life long Owsley County resident.  I have traveled the Daniel Boone Parkway many times. I think the name should remain Daniel Boone Parkway.  There are still many roads that are in great need in eastern Kentucky, let him get the funding for one of these roads and build it.  I am sure that no one will object if he wishes to name it Hal Rogers parkway, Hal Rogers Interstate or Hal Rogers Scenic Route.  I think that renaming Daniel Boone Parkway to Hal Rogers Parkway will cost him plenty of votes in upcoming elections." anonymous

  "I don't think I could possibly be more disappointed in anything than the fact that The Daniel Boone Parkway is now the Hal Rogers Parkway.  One vote lost Mr. Rogers."  Susan Rice

  "Please leave the name of our parkway, The 'Daniel Boone Parkway', alone.  We paid for it , it is ours, just leave it be." Wanda in Leslie County.

  "I am disgusted with this Hal...He can't replace Daniel Boone, that's just stupid, and we all know that...He sure won't get any vote of mine, see you at the polls people..."  Jackie Doane

  "I just have to wonder what these people in our government are doing.  Do they have such free time to spend on such unimportant issues?  I mean no disrespect to Hal Rogers as I believe he has made a difference to our wonderful commonwealth, however, I do believe he should have (if he didn't) renounced the idea.  When I think of the time our government has spent on renaming this parkway, the expense and man-hours it has taken to make and change the signs when we are experiencing greater difficulties really makes me shudder.  This is a classic example of just how the very people we have elected to represent us have once again chosen to squander money instead of using it wisely. I guess it's always easier to spend other peoples money.  What would I say to these 'busy' lawmakers had I the opportunity?  I would first tell them they should take the person who came up with this hair-brain scheme out back and flog them (hey, take the guy that second that motion too!) and lock the door so they can't do it again.  To the rest, I'd tell them they were elected to do a job - supposedly to make life better for us living here in the great Commonwealth of Kentucky.  We have some pretty serious issues that need to be dealt with and it is obvious they have no concept of organizing and prioritizing what needs to be done and what should be laughed at. People, elections are coming and I would suggest that you get your house in order!  We need serious people to do a serious job."  Gary Wooton

  "I can't believe this Rogers clown is going to let the parkway be named after him. The Daniel Boone parkway took a lot of the farmland that I grew up on in Clay County.  If you want to change the name, then name it after someone who worked the land for years before the road came & took all they had."  David Collinsworth 

  "I think its so pathetic that they are changing the Daniel Boone parkway to the Hal Rogers. Of all the roads, why did they have to pick this one.  If I were Hal Rogers I would be totally ashamed and ask that it would not be changed.  Does he really think he can or does compare to Daniel Boone?  If he didn't, he would ask that the change did not take place." Tracey Combs

  "Hal Rogers should decline the state's renaming of the Daniel Boone highway!!  The only reason to rename the highway to Rogers' is so people will remember him 10 years from now, otherwise, they would forget him!  He pales in comparison to the importance Daniel Boone had on the state of Kentucky!"  Chuck Olsen, Norfolk, NE

  "It is still the Daniel Boone Parkway to me.  Hal Rogers should have the decency to want to leave the honor to Daniel Boone."  Mary Meade

  "As a descendant of Daniel Boone, I was offended by the decision to change the Daniel Boone Parkway to the Hal Rogers Parkway.  Not only because I am a descendant but because I am from Laurel County.  I think it looks bad for some politician who is still alive to accept such an honor; it just seems a little vain.  It's not as if the parkway is the only thing with his name on it either.  He has a center in Somerset, a water park in Williamsburg, a couple of streets and who knows what else has his name on it.  I am sure Mr. Rogers has done a lot for our region, but isn't that his job?  Nobody has named a road after me for doing my job, or for anyone else who simply does their job.  Is it okay for politicians to decide who in history is most important?  Mr. Rogers had a commercial on the radio supporting another politician and his main quote was, 'this election is about heritage, about change.'  I'd say Mr. Rogers is ALL about change but he has no business talking heritage!  You can't just erase history and replace it as you please.  Would you tear down the Statue of Liberty if they found a prettier version?  Or replace the Vietnam Memorial with a new Gulf Memorial?  I would think not.  I know change is good but you don't dismiss the heroes of yesterday to honor those of today."  Pamela Boone

  "Daniel Boone is known nationally and will be forever!  Ask someone that is not from Eastern Kentucky, Who's Hal Rogers?  The Parkway runs through the Daniel Boone National Forest, not the Hal Rogers National Forest.  Why the change?  It's a political trophy for one person. HAL ROGERS.  The decision should have been the choice of many, not the few.  It is a shame."  Tim Smith

  "Honestly,  I am impressed with Mr. Rogers efforts and results, but I would rather have his image on a stamp than give up something as special as Mr. Boone's name - it seems like he was robbed, and I feel like I am somewhere else every time I have to travel on that well known road."  Joy Farler

  "I think the parkway should remain as Daniel Boone Parkway and now will they changed the Daniel Boone National forest?  If he every runs for congress again he won't make it and not my vote.  We travel the mountains Parkway now. MDDW, Richmond, Ky

  "As much tax money that has been paid over the years plus all of the toll money that has been collected
the toll should have been removed years ago.  Hal Rogers is getting paid very well for doing his job and I think that should be enough reward for removing the tolls. I do my job every day and I do not want the company I work for to change its name to mine. The road should have been improved years ago. I know there are a lot of coal trucks hauling on it BUT they pay large road fuel taxes and registration fees and other things that more than pay for the damage they do to the road.  Lets do the right thing and change the name back to DANIEL BOONE PARKWAY.  Tim Calhoun 

  "I have lived here in Leslie County for 16 years and all the time I have lived here I have known it as Daniel Boone Parkway and everyone that visits me out of State knows it as the Daniel Boone Parkway and now they will be lost with the new name.  There's a lot of people that do not like changes.  I do not agree with changing the name to Hal Rogers, He's the Congressman and that's his job, but Daniel Boone was here before any of us including Hal Rogers.  There needs to be an election for the people to vote to stay with Daniel Boone or change to Hal Rogers and we all know what name would win.  This shouldn't end here, It needs to be brought up for the people to make that change, not ones that sit in an office to get their name on some Billboards.  I can tell you I really liked the name - Daniel Boone Parkway.  That, to me, represents Eastern Ky.  I have talked to several people away from here and that live here and none of us agree with the name change.  So why don't you get those Hal Rogers' signs off the Daniel Boone Parkway and put Daniel Boone Parkway back where it needs to be."  Joy

  "I grew up in Knott and Perry Counties and now live in Morehead, KY.  I still travel the Parkway quite frequently and I have to agree, it should never have a name change.  Honor Hal Rogers some other way."  Dermalene Brown

  "I can't believe this!  I am not even from Kentucky but I am so saddened by this news!  I have taught third graders in New York State and Virginia for more than thirty years.  There is nothing more rewarding than to see young children get excited to hear the stories of our nation's heroes, the heroes who made this country. In today's politically correct climate, we are losing so much of our history because of who may be offended!  Well, I am offended that someone or some group is turning their backs on our heritage!  Please leave our heroes alone!  We need to be reminded more of the bravery and sacrifice of those early settlers. Come on Kentucky, Daniel Boone belongs to all Americans...don't sweep him under the rug!"  Carol Amburgey

  "Well I think that renaming the Daniel Boone Parkway to Hal Rogers  is silly it should be left as it is.  After all, Daniel Boone is a part of History that we all have grew up learning about in school.  My children aren't  going to be reading about Hal Rogers in their history books.  They will however read about Daniel Boone, so why change something when there isn't any thing wrong in the first place.  I think the Parkway should be left in the right name and that is DANIEL BOONE not HAL ROGERS, nothing against Hal Rogers."  Pat Howard

  "It is sad to see the name change.  Daniel Boone was a real man.  Hal Rogers couldn't hold him a light."  anonymous

  "Should have been kept the Daniel Boone Parkway."  Mary Tarry 

  "I think we should leave history as it is.  Daniel Boone was here long before Mr. Hal Rogers, no disrespect to Mr. Rogers  When he can cut a road like Daniel Boone did, then and only then can he name a highway after himself."  Chuck

  "If there is a petition to be signed, I will gladly sign it.  Even though I now live in Tennessee, it bothers me every time I go through there and see the name Hal Rogers.  It should stay Daniel Boone." anonymous

  "It will always be Daniel Boone!"  Theresa Bledsoe

  "I think it is a shame what has been done to the Daniel Boone Highway, then when you look at what has been done in the running of Kentucky Government in Frankfort, why should it surprise me!  I think the name of Hal Rogers should be taken down off the Parkway..."  Rose Ballard Durham, Harrison, Ohio

  "I grew up in that country and I think the Parkway should not be changed from Daniel Boone Parkway to Hal Rogers Parkway."  Bug Logan

  "I have traveled the parkway since it's beginning and I think it is absurd that a politician should be placed over one of the greatest founders and explorers of this wonderful state, Daniel Boone.  Maybe if Hal Rogers had done something more profound in education or the poverty in the state I could justify it.  As I recall there were some problems with Boone ever keeping his land in this state, even if it was partly his fault I cannot help but think that the word 'politics' or 'politicians' were involved.  I guess the state still feels fit in taking away from this early explorer, no different than our Native Americans, whom Boone respected.  I think this fella - Hal Rogers was doing no more than the job he was expected to do.  Name a rest stop after him not a Highway!  While I'm on my soapbox maybe the Kentucky politicians could find it in their wisdom to research the legend of Boone Ledge in Hazard and maybe create some type of landmark for him rather than continuing to take things away from him.  I will pay for one of the signs they are taking down on the parkway.  I will show it respect and keep it in my home!  A michigander with Kentucky blood."  Dave Salley 

  "I was shocked when I saw the first sign designating the parkway's new name.  I know I don't keep up much with what's going on locally, or the world for that matter, but the change from Daniel Boone Parkway to Hal Rogers Parkway offended some sensibility of mine.  Since I'm a member of the voting public I thought I should have an opportunity to at least vote on something this significant!...Do we rename the Daniel Boone national forest next?"  anonymous

  "Change it Back!  How much longer will it be before they change the name of the Daniel Boone
National Fores to the Hal Rogers National Forest?"  anonymous

  "We should, all of us, know that the name change was in whole or part by the transportation sec. and other scumb bags in Frankfort who has taken our heritage away from us.  Hal Rogers is a good man and had no part in the process.  Lets vote these blood suckers out of office and replace the political appointees such as the transpiration sec."  Douglas Fleming, Leslie County Voter and tax payer!!!!

  "Ummmmmm Daniel Boone is a national icon.  Who the heck is Hal Rogers?"  Shirley in Ohio

  "As I drove along the scenic Daniel Boone Parkway, I couldn't help but notice the new signs proclaiming that I had just entered the Hal Rogers Parkway.  Who the heck is Hal Rogers?  And how can he expect to fill Daniel Boone's shoes?  I've got to tell you folks in Kentucky that the memory of Daniel Boone lives on for now but when this generation is gone so may that memory.  If you folks did a survey and asked your fellow Americans who Daniel Boone was and what he did, the majority would pretty much know, however I live in east Tennessee and I have yet to hear of the wonderful things Mr. Hal Rogers might have done.  Well, I hope those tourist dollars keep coming in."  Tom Perry

  "I believe you should leave the name of the parkway as the Daniel Boone Parkway.  Most people visiting Kentucky don't know who Hal Rogers is, I know I sure as heck didn't.  I learned about Daniel Boone in school, not Hal Rogers.  I did however take a lot of pictures and some of the signs.  The first sign I saw that said Hal Rogers Parkway, I was wondering just what he had done to make history.  I knew right off hand what Daniel Boone had done.  Please leave the name as Daniel Boone Parkway..."  Jenniferin Ohio

  "I think it should stay The Daniel Boone Parkway."  Floyd Maggard

  "To take Daniel Boone's name off anything and put up a politician's name on it instead is just plain out boneheaded and that's what I think about it even here in Florida where our politicians are so crooked when they die they have to screw them into the ground."  Henry Crenshaw

"Change it back to the Daniel Boone Parkway.  I think Daniel has done more for putting Kentucky on the map than Hal Rogers ever could!"  anonymous  

"Leave it as - a tribute to Daniel Boone.  He did a lot more than Hal Rogers ever has." Pamela Shell 

"It should remain the Daniel Boone Parkway.  Hal Rogers is not even in the same league as Boone.  He should return the road back to its original name."  Concerned Citizen

"Nothing against Hal Rogers, but I think we're getting a little carried away naming things after politicians," said Mike Mullins, head of the Hindman Settlement School in Knott County. "Hal Rogers' day will come and go, just like my day will come and go, but Daniel Boone will be remembered forever."

Rogers, a Republican from Somerset, has represented eastern Kentucky in Congress for 23 years and helped obtain the $13-million in federal funding that allowed the state to eliminate tolls on the parkway.

The two-lane road, especially popular during the autumn leaf season, runs almost 60 miles through remote, mountainous forest not so unlike the terrain that Boone himself encountered.

The state transportation agency announced its decision to rename the parkway in June at a ceremony where Rogers helped symbolically topple a toll collection booth.

Rogers, in a statement from his office Tuesday, did not address the public debate about renaming the road.

"It's a tremendous honor to have this parkway named after me," he said. "I am humbled."

Already, signs renaming the road Hal Rogers Parkway are going up, and the old Daniel Boone Parkway signs will come down next year after maps are reprinted.

But Boone's enduring folk-hero status in Kentucky is not so easily removed. Boone, who lived from 1734 to 1820, built his reputation as the model of the American frontiersman in the 1770s for his exploration and for his settlement of the state.

He hacked out the Wilderness Road, which led early settlers across the Appalachian Mountains and into Kentucky and points west, and helped defend early encampments from Indians.

And his name can still draw tourists. Every fall, thousands of people gather at the Daniel Boone Festival in Barbourville.

One eastern Kentucky newspaper, the Floyd County Times of Prestonsburg, said renaming the road is a silly honor that Rogers should decline.

"For all of Rogers' ability to bring the gravy home from Washington, it pales in comparison to the legendary life of Boone," the newspaper said.

"Change it back to the Daniel Boone Parkway.  I think Daniel has done more for putting Kentucky on the map than Hal Rogers ever could!"  Anonymous

"What's so special about Mr. Hal Rogers?  Will he be a part of history?  In my eyes if he allows this to happen then I think he's just another self glorified crocked politician.  If it isn't broke than don't fix it."  Tommy Deaton

"Kentucky's history is so tied to Daniel Boone that visitors cannot separate the two in conversation.  It seems to me that by changing the name we have shunned the importance of our heritage."  Mike Volk 

"I think Hal Rogers should ask that his name be taken off and leave the name of the Daniel Boone Parkway alone.  There are other roads being built that he could put his name on.  I'm very disappointed at the way he has handled this situation.  I think the people should get to vote on what name they want on the parkway."  A former supporter of Hal Rogers

"I am a Perry County Republican and was proud of Hal Rogers but have lost respect for him after he allowed the Daniel Boone Parkway name be changed.  The Daniel Boone name is part of our heritage and helped tourism.  People from all over our nation have heard of Daniel Boone but I have had visitors ask 'who is Hal Rogers?'  How much tax payer money did it cost to have all the signs changed?  That money could have been better spent making changes to the exit 56 area of the parkway that could save lives.  We need a concrete wall between the east and west lanes in that area to keep head on collisions from continuing to occur."  A.B.

"Hal Rogers needs to find his own road.  Daniel Boones contributions to Kentucky far out weigh Hal Rogers."  Anonymous

"Hal Rogers is a special man and has done a lot for us.  But the people that have come to Kentucky has always looked for the Daniel Boone Parkway.  That is what they remember from long ago.  Daniel Boone was a special man that discovered Kentucky and that is worth leaving the highway what it was.  Thank you to Hal Rogers, but we need to know that Daniel Boone did not die in vain with all his travels and finding our state."  Anonymous

"To whom it may concern, I think is is a disgrace to the people of the Commonwealth of Kentucky.  There is no person in the history of Kentucky that has done more for this Commonwealth.  He mapped, settled and fought in the independence of KY.  Daniel Boone has also lost children defending his home in Kentucky.  Besides the man, it will hurt the tourist industry very much I think.  It runs through the Daniel Boone Nat'l. Forest which attracts many tourist.  Maybe they are going to change the forest's name too.  I can't believe that Mr. Rogers has the gall to try put his name on one of the best known highways in the eastern United States named after a icon of history.  Did he even have any part of any stage of the building of the hwy.?  I believe they ought to build a rest stop and name that after him since he likes his name on buildings and roads etc.  That's my 3 cents worth, well maybe 4 or 5 cents. :)"  Mike Campbell, Hazard, KY.

"Well, I think this is ridiculous!!  I really don't care what Hal Rogers has done.  The highway will always be The Daniel Boone Parkway to me.  Why change it, now?   I moved to Ohio a year ago and for the last 32 years, this has always been my heritage, I don't want to lose it!"  T. Boggs, Marietta, OH.   

"I must say I am ashamed that Kentucky which has always been a state steeped in rich tradition has allowed one of Kentucky's best loved heroes to be replaced so easily.  Hal Rogers may have been a good representative for the state of Kentucky, but he is no Daniel Boone.  Thank for allowing me to vent my frustrations."  Joie B

"I left KY 43 years ago.  We had to stay away from home just to attend High School because the school bus could not get up the hollows and creeks to transport us.  My father had the only grocery store in the hollow and had to take a hammer and shovel and work the road before he could travel it to bring groceries to the community.  I remember writing a letter to Carl D. Perkins for my dad, asking for his influence to get us just a road that was possible to travel.  I am so thankful that the people have the Daniel Boon Parkway.  Without it, they would still be in the same shape me and my family were.  By all means, it should remain the Daniel Boone Parkway.  It would be a terrible dishonor to history to take this name from the man who at least Blazed our trails."  Pat

"I think this is crazy.  The parkway is fine, put his name on something else.  Lave it a long."  Sonny Dalton 

"I do not agree with changing the name and i never will!  This is Stupid!"  Anonymous

"1st; I do not agree with the name change on the parkway.  I was born in Hazard, raised and attended school in Perry County.  I now live in Leslie County and travel the parkway due to work at least 5 days a week.  Therefore, I do not feel disrespectful to whomever made this decision regarding the name change.  I STRONGLY feel the Daniel Boone parkway should have stayed just that.  Granted Hal Rogers has done a lot for our area, I feel we should have found some other piece for ground to honor him by.  I feel the Daniel Boone was named years ago respectfully due to the forest and the history, so why change it?  I know it's a 'done deal', heck, the signs are hanging.  I do have a hope someone will take notice of web sites like yours and reconsider what they have done and make it right."  JWS in Leslie County

"I think the Daniel Boone Parkway; should remain the the Daniel Boone Parkway.  I will never call it anything else."  D. Whitaker

"I don't think they should have renamed the parkway simply because Hal Rogers took out the booths.  Daniel Boone has always been apart of our history that's what people love to talk about.  They didn't ask the people about how they felt when they changed the name.  Many are upset and think they should have asked the people to vote on it.  They should change it back!!!"  Raenell Slone

"Please change the Parkway name back to Daniel Boone Parkway.  The name of the Parkway rightfully belongs to Daniel Boone.  If you say 'Daniel Boone Parkway,' everyone knows what you are referring to and who the person it was named for?  Boone was a legend and as Kentucky being my heritage, that makes Daniel Boone part of my heritage also.  When I come home to Kentucky, I want to see the Daniel Boone Parkway signs, not Hal whoever he was or is. Thank You."  Linda Leach, Orlando, FL

"It's the sign that says 'FORMERLY' that makes me mad.  The Daniel Boone is one of the Worst stretches of road in the state, to be called a parkway.  Exit 56 has been called the most dangerous mile in the state.  BUT THAT DOESN'T GIVE HAL ROGERS THE RIGHT TO TAKE DANIEL'S NAME OFF THE ROAD.  Finish I-66 and name THAT after Hal Rogers, Leave the Daniel Boone alone (except to widen it to 4 lanes all the way, and straighten out those two or three bad curves)  Gillie Webb

"I live in Georgia and I have family living in Hyden KY.  Many times I have visited anf could not have found my way had it not been for the Daniel Boone Parkway. YES, HE is a legend.  I was taught about Daniel Boone when I was a young school girl.  I don`t blame the people of KY.  I am boiling MAD over this.  I don't know your Mr. Roger, but I sure know a lot  about Mr. Daniel Boone.  His Parkway is an HISTORICAL ROAD.  PLEASE CHANGE IT BACK.  GA. KNOWS DANIEL BOONE."  UNHAPPY GEORGION.  RAP.

"Please  put  Daniel Boone's name back where it rightfully belongs.  No one's name belongs there except Daniel Boones.  Even Mr. Hal Rodgers should  know this isn't right so please for  the sake of Kentucky's heritage, leave Daniel's name there.  It is the  right thing to do.  Come on Kentuckians - fight for what you know is the right thing to do.  Listen, it's so true the US Supreme Court comes along and strips us of the Ten Commandments on certain places, then they want to come along and take whatever we have always had as a  group of people that  love those mountains and etc.  What do you all want to do?  Run people away from the mountains and make it as a smog city.  I say fight for what you all know is right and it's right to put old Daniel's name back where it belongs.  I am formerly from Hyden, Kentucky and  I  know it's heritage and the way the pioneers lived and all.  I came to Ohio in 1963 but from time to time I travel back to the Eastern Hills of Kentucky and I always  go on the Daniel Boone Parkway and when I tell someone how to go that's the direction.  I think it's name should return to  Daniel Boone Parkway because lets face it, he was the pioneer, not Hal Rodgers.  Nothing against this man, he may be a great person and all and Kentucky may want some changes but change things where they aren't going to hurt the people who have sweated  their lives for the state and gave their all to a  place they loved so well.  Hal may have put some worthwhile money in it but I would  rather pay a toll and have the name back to  it's original position.  I hope the right decision is made and leave  politics out of it..Thank you all very much." Edna Asher Smith

"I vote to remove all people names from Road ways, they can put them on their Mail Boxes.  Thank You."  Ovitt Couch

"I have lived in eastern Kentucky all my life and one day I look to my right and it says Hal Rogers
Parkway.  I travel the parkway many times each weak  It breaks my heart that my ten year old daughter asks me, 'Mom, who is Hal Rogers?'  She said it was suppose to be Daniel Boone.  She was tought in school it was part of her heritage.  I told her, to me, and I probably speak for all others in Kentucky, it will allways.be the Daniel Boone Parkway.  What are our schools suppose to tell our kids about Hal Rogers?  That he took out these toll booths that was to be taken out many years ago?  I'm really surprised they haven't named part of it the George bush parkway."  Lana Brock

"The public outcry has apparently sent some politicians into a panic at the thought of having to remove Roger's name from the highway.  The latest suggestion by Representative Yonts is a slap in the face to those who live in East Kentucky.  He is suggesting spending thousands more of our tax dollars to change all the signs again in an effort to keep Hal Rogers' name on the highway.   Everyone is making it clear they want Daniel Boone's name, and not a politician's name on the parkway.  Representative Brent Yonts proposes that it be called the 'Daniel Boone Hal Rogers Parkway'.  This is nothing but politics.  Can you imagine anyone actually calling it the 'Daniel Boone Hal Rogers Parkway?'  I guess it would be located right next to the Daniel Boone Hal Rogers Forest, and Booneledge in Perry County could be called Boone - Rogers - ledge.  This is getting ridiculous.  I guess election day is the one way Eastern Kentucky can fight back."  Steven Deaton, Hazard, KY

"Daniel Boone was a pioneer, a great man, why should a name change even be considered?  What he accomplished affected the United States of American, not just Kentucky.  Can you even begin to ponder on another man, as great, being associated with the  state of Kentucky?  If Hal Rogers does something great, then 100 years from now, let something be named after him.  First he must stand the test of time.  I do not think any person living should have something named after them, (who knows what may be in their closets and come out later) especially something as important as this Parkway, which represents ALL OF KENTUCKY,  to the whole world.  Go into any State, any School system and ask any 6th grade student, who is Daniel Boone?  Then ask the same student, who is Hal Rogers?  Please leave The Daniel Boone Parkway named after a great man, a part of Kentucky's heritage.  Kentucky must strive to have the best.  Rogers claims to want the best for Kentucky, if he does, then can't he see by taking a name away from this parkway is like removing pages from History."   Junior Craig

"Please leave the name alone.  That's what's wrong today - taking the tradition away takes away our history.  Name something else after this man.  I was raised in Kentucky."  Linda Dalton, Houston, TX

"I have traveled the Parkway for the biggest part of my life and it really doesn't matter what they change it too, it will always be and remain the Daniel Boone Parkway to me, so I don't agree with the change.  I think that
Hal Rogers has made a significant impact on Kentucky today but some how it is just not the same as Daniel Boone!!" Lydia Morgan

"Please change the name back to Daniel Boone Parkway. Leave our 'History ALONE'!!!!!!!!  "THANKS"  Barbara Puckett, Network Analyst, Governor's Office for Technology, Frankfort, KY

"Perhaps some folks really feel the need to be immortalized on highway signs and other designations.  I would hope that Mr. Rogers has enough self-respect to ask that the name be changed back to Daniel Boone and carve himself a piece of history to be remembered by, not ride the back of someone's else's horse."  Dave Fallis, Systems Consultant, Governor's Office for Technology, Frankfort, KY  

"I was un aware of the name change till one morning on my way to work.  I noticed the new HAL ROGERS PARKWAY signs all over the place, I first thought, well at least there keeping the Daniel Boone Parkway signs.  After further conversations with people I found that the parkway was being renamed.  This is an outrage!!!  I've lived in Leslie County my whole life and travel this road everyday.  The removal of the toll booths were long over due, but if Id known the price for removal would be trashing our heritage, Ill gladly keep paying my 50 cents.....  I've read most of the message board and like most, there's no greater feeling when traveling home to see the signs of the Daniel Boone Parkway.  I'm not a politician, but this should have been voted on by the people,  but I could probably sum up the voting for you.  40,000 votes against & 1 vote in favor."  Johnny W. Sizemore

"Take Hal Rogers' name off." Allie Davidson

"Please, leave the 'Daniel Boone Parkway' as is.  It was Hal Rogers' elected duty to remove the tolls from the Parkway when time was appropriate."  Pearl Maggard, Pippa Passes, KY  

"We all make mistakes and the best thing to do is correct them when we can, so correct this one and change it back to the Daniel Boone Parkway,  we the people paid for the highway, maybe we can call it the Peoples Parkway, why not?  Leave it as Daniel Boone, we are all proud of that name."  Ginger Carroll

"It's a total shame and disgrace to change the name.  That's part of our history and Hal Rogers can make his own name for the history books - but leave the Parkway - the Daniel Boone Parkway." Anonymous

"While you are at it, why don't you go back to all the history books about Kentucky and change the name Daniel Boone to Hal Rogers.  It makes as much sense as changing the Daniel Boone Parkway to the Hal Rogers Parkway, to me.  This is politics at its best...the best of the worst."  Becky Vanover 

"Mr, Rogers has done some things for southeastern KY, but think, people...has he really done anything GREAT?  Has anything been so terrific that a highway should be named after him?  Yes he has brought jobs in here, but they only pay minimum wage.  Who can live on that?  I know I can't.  What about bringing jobs in here for the people who spend 4+ years in school trying to make something of themselves.  I am sorry we can't do that, they have to move away from family and friends just to make a decent living.  Now what is he doing, taking away from KY's history a great frontiersmen just so our kids, grandkids etc... can ask us what Hal Rogers ever did to get such a beautiful stretch of highway named after himself?  What can we reply to that? hummmm 'Oh yeah I know, he gave us all the privilege of making $5.25 an hour and took away some toll booths'.  Wooohooo.  How great is that, really?  Put the name of the road back to The Daniel Boone Parkway.  Let us pass along the history of the 'founder' of our state as we drive along the road, NOT our congressman."  Anonymous, Hazard, KY

"I have traveled the Daniel Boone Parkway quite a lot, as I am sure a lot of the people in Ky and surrounding states have.  To me it will always be the Daniel Boone Parkway.  I have heard and read about Daniel Boone all my life and I think it is so sad that the Parkway name was taken away and replaced with Hal Rogers.  Nothing against Hal Rogers, mind you, but there are plenty more highways that could have been named after him.  Why pick a highway that was named after someone that means so much to Kentuckians?  Please.........whoever has the power to get it changed back.......CHANGE IT BACK TO DANIEL BOONE PARKWAY!"     Betty McIntosh

"For the love of God!  Please change this parkway back to Daniel Boone Pkwy, I can't believe it was changed in the first place.  I have read a few books on Daniel Boone and am still fascinated with him and all his travels.  Who is Hal Rogers anyway???  The name rings a bell, but I couldn't tell you in what capacity."  Tammy in Ohio

"Though Congressman Rogers is an admirable man, and has done a lot for our state, I don’t believe that politicians should be looking to have things named after them. What did Daniel Boone do to deserve the demotion anyway? I believe having things named after historical events, or people can be acceptable in certain circumstances. However, I think this area particularly has gone WAY overboard with naming things after local politicians, who usually don’t deserve the recognition anyway. It seems like you can’t turn your head around here without seeing the names Gorman and Neace, just to name a couple. A politician who is in office to truly serve the people that elected him or her, will not seek to have their name plastered all over every new building or park that comes to the area. Does that say anything about most of the people holding public office here now?"  Jay V.

"Heavens Be!  What are we going to do wrong next?  First of all I thought you had to be dead to get a Highway named after you.  Well I was wrong, evidently.  Now young`uns, I don't want to hurt Rep Hal Rogers feelings, because he don't deserve it, but neither does he deserve to have his name placed overtop Daniel Boone's.  Let's just be logical for a minute.  What did ol Dan`l do to get his name torn down?  To get your name torn down, shouldn't you have to do something terrible?  And, since Ol` Dan`l is dead he couldn't have done anything bad since we put his name on the parkway.  Now, if someone has found some new historical fact that he doesn't deserve the honor they placed on him when they named the parkway after him, let's reconsider it and let the state legislature vote to change it or put it to a vote on the ballot this fall.  Personally I vote to leave OL DANL`s name alone.  GET A GRIP!  Now that we've decided to vote on it we can either leave his name up or take it down.  I think that without this being done, nothing else can be done.  Next, If by chance, WE decide to take down Ol Danl`s name, we can consider Hal Roger`s.  I for one, like what Hal Rogers has done for Eastern Kentucky.  I also like what I hear about him personally.  Still, I do not know him personally so I am limited on what I do know of him.  That said,  I would probably vote to name some road after him after his death.  Is it a qualification that they be dead?  That is an important question to be answered first.  No,  first, we should decide if Ol Danl`s  name should come down.  If not, the  whole thing is settled.  So, if the presses do the right thing, tomorrow, we will hear that all is on hold and we, the people will decide if the name of the Daniel Boone Parkway should be changed.  To Rep. Hal Rogers:  Please do the right thing.  So far I hear that it isn't your idea.  That's good.  Make your best political move and refuse the name change under any and all circumstances.  The people will respect you and praise you for the move.  Don't do it and I promise it will hurt you.  How much it will hurt you I venture to not even guess, but rest assured, it will hurt.  Personally, I do not know how it would effect me in the polls, if you do nothing.  It would definitely make a difference on who runs against you.  If it's a tossup, you would lose.  I respect you a lot and do appreciate all you have done for me and Eastern Kentucky.  Watch this move awful careful.  It could make or break you.  It looks  like a GREEDY move, more than anything else.  Build us a convention center or a nice big gym in Hazard and put your name all around it.  We'll help you.  Patton is doing it for Pikeville, Can't you do it for Perry County?  I'm still a fan and supporter of you, put everything to rest and just REFUSE it."  Wallace Begley, Hazard, KY

"Please change it back.  I agree with what has already been stated.  Hal Rogers is an honorable man and in my opinion - a good representative, but Daniel Boone is as much as Kentucky as Wildcat Basketball.  And now here is your Hal Rogers Wildcats.  See what I mean?  Just doesn't make good sense, does it" Glenn Overbee "

"I think it stinks! Dan'l Boone built the first road into Ky.  To have his name replaced by anyone's is a disgrace!  Hal Rogers needs another road named after him, if it has to be, not Ole Dan'l's.  Please don't do this, Hal."  Lynda Combs Gipson, Frankfort, Ky   

"Changing the name of the Daniel Boone Parkway is an outrage.  Regardless of anything that Hal Rogers has done, it does not warrant naming a road after him.  Why did this not come to a vote?  Are we to assume that we as voters can give voice to some decisions but not all of them.  I will never call the Daniel Boone Parkway anything else but the Daniel Boone.  I guess we will see what kind of man Hal Rogers really is when he realizes that with this arrogant road naming he is separating himself from the 'people' he claims to represent.  If he really cares, he will work day and night to restore the rightful name to this roadway.  If he doesn't work to change the name back, then we will all see how selfish and self centered he is."  A Viper resident.

"Hal Rogers is not worthy of replacing a local and national historic legend.  Please change the name back."  Charles Godsey Jr., Rowdy, KY

"I think the parkway should be left alone.  Yes, Hal Rogers has helped Kentucky out a lot, but Daniel Boone is what Kentucky is about.  Let's not change history and have our children not growing up knowing the real meaning of our history.  Leave well enough alone.  Name something else after Hal Rogers." Anonymous

"I had actually moved away from Hazard about the time the parkway was finished, but whenever I have returned home, seeing the 'Daniel Boone Parkway' signs stirs lots of good memories.  There are too many instances now days to try to remove all vestiges of our history.  Daniel Boone was a part of our history in Eastern Kentucky.  Change the name back!  Eventually the toll booths would have been removed anyway because as I understood it at the time it was built, the tolls were only being charged to pay for the construction.  Once that was paid off, the tolls were supposed to go away."  Jim Ozee, Atlanta, GA ozee@mindspring.com

"I have just recently moved to Kentucky and am impressed by the love the people show for their heritage.  I too learned about Daniel Boone in school and could name several things that he was known for doing.  When I first saw a sign change for Hal Rogers Parkway, I turned to my husband and asked, 'Who is Hal Rogers and what did he do for Kentucky that was so much better than what Boone did?'  He just laughed and replied, 'He knocked down a toll booth.'  Woop dee do.  I read earlier about someone who said that when they see the Daniel Boone sign, they know that they are close to home.  I do the same when I go back to visit my family in another state.  I think it is a shame and the people of Kentucky should not allow this change to happen.  If it does, we may as well change the Daniel Boone National Forest to the Hal Rogers National Forest.  I mean he helped to pioneer our country, lets honor him in everything and not take everything away from our real heroes and just forget about our history.  Name a building or side road after Mr. Rogers, because maybe he does need some recognition for what he has done for Kentucky, but don't take away our heritage and loving landmarks."  Anonymous

"Why change the name?  Almost everyone in the nation has heard of Daniel Boone.  How many have heard of Hal Rogers?  I think the name 'Daniel Boone Parkway' is very fitting to the region.  What about the Daniel Boone National Forrest?  We would'nt want to change the name to something else would we?  I remember when I was a little boy we would drive from Hazard to Big Creek to see my Grand Parents using the Daniel Boone Parkway.  It was among the most beautiful, scenic views of southeastern Kentucky you would find.  I will always remember it as Daniel Boone Parkway.  I'm sure over time there will be something else we could name after Hal Rogers, perhaps a new park, building, or new highway in the future.  I'll always consider Southeastern Kentucky my home."  Phil Hill, Swayzee, IN

"I grew up in Hazard but left in 1959.  I don't know who Hal Rogers is but I am sure people all over the United States know who Daniel Boone is.  Why take that part of Kentucky's history away for a man who has not really proven himself yet.  Maybe he has done some good for eastern Kentucky, but let us not forget what old Daniel did for us."  JNL

"What a sad day.  I can't imagine changing the name of the Daniel Boone Parkway to Hal Rogers.  Isn't there something new that can be named after Mr. Hal Rogers?  If he has done so much for Kentucky, why not give him credit for what he has done.  I live in Tennessee and I travel this Parkway several times a year.  It means coming home to me. I am not opposed to change.  We live in a changing world, but we also need some consistency in our lives.  When I come home to Perry County I look for familiar things.  They get fewer and fewer every time I return.  Please leave the name Daniel Boone Parkway so I will know I am getting closer and closer to Home."   Anonymous

"I say change the road back to Daniel Boone Parkway.  Who Is Hal Rogers anyway?  If he has done so much for Eastern Kentucky, why is it then, that he is so little known?  I was born and raised in Perry county, and I love it, yet.I only left Perry County to find work, where I could make a living."  Anonymous

"I think the new name change just adds confusion to out of town visitors, maps are now inaccurate."  Anonymous

"It was very nice of Mr. Rogers to finally remove the tollbooths from the 'Daniel Boone Parkway'.  I applauded him for that.  He has done a lot of important stuff for Southeastern Kentucky.  I do hope he continues to fight for the region that he serves.  Furthermore, I do agree with Transportation Secretary Mr. Codell, we do need to honor our modern day heroes.  But not by changing our past.  Leave the past alone.  Name a section of I-66 after him.  Name something new after him, not something old.  Not a landmark that everyone in Perry, Leslie, Clay, and Laurel County can identify.  He could have been the bigger person and declined the name change.  We are getting mad at Mr. Rogers because he allowed a piece of our lives to be named after him.  Southeastern Kentuckians we are barking up the wrong tree.  We need to be fighting this battle in a different manner; we need to be asking the new gubernatorial candidates 'who among you will change the name of our parkway back?'  We are forgetting that 'WE' have the power.  If we don't like the way something has been handled, we can always not vote for that person.  As a collective of people who believe in a common cause, are we going to allow this to die in the next 6 months?  Or, are we going to stand strong to our convictions?"  J. Rice, London, KY

"Daniel Boone.  Yes, change it back.  Boone is more of a legend of Kentucky people."

"I have lived in the state of Kentucky for 22 years, and one of the things that I find exciting about Kentucky is it's rich history of Daniel Boone.  Every time I drive down the parkway, seeing his name on the road signs makes me starts thinking what Kentucky was really like at that time and how beautiful it still is today!  When I see Hal Rogers on the parkway I'm certainly not going to think about the history or beauty!!!  I think it's very wrong.  I realize Hal Rogers has done some things for Kentucky and the people but he didn't bring the beauty of Kentucky to the people!  Please change the name back!"  Kevin Branam, Lawrenceburg KY  askkatie@mail.com

"Please leave the parkway name alone.  This is not about politics, it's about what is right.  Daniel Boone came through Cumberland Gap, not Hal Rogers.  Hal will get his recognition without this name change.  There is a record of Hal's accomplishments in the history of Kentucky.  Leave ole Daniel alone.  I am strongly against changing the name of the parkway.  Hal Rogers will not politically prosper on this one.  He would get more respect to protect the name of the parkway rather than agree that it be named after him."  Kenneth Goforth

"I look forward once a year, going back home to Hazard, KY.  It is always such a relief, and a moment of joy when I see the big sign on I-75..'Daniel Boone Parkway.'  'Oh, I am almost home'.  I will probably take another route if that stretch of road is renamed after a politician.  Hal Rogers' just does not meet the qualifications in my estimation.  The name 'Daniel Boone' is written in our hearts and will always be there.  Nothing can change that.  Thank you for the opportunity to express my views."  Faye Barnett Barker, Palm Harbor, Florida

"It's too bad that we discount and disregard History in the name of expedience.  There was a time when you had to be dead to have something named for you.  To do otherwise is just self-serving."  C.L. Turner 

"I don't think it is right for you to change the name.  We can't put every Tom, Dick and Harry's name on roads just to make them look big.  The Daniel Boone has been named.  Just leave it alone."

"Changing a highway name of one of the most notable Kentuckians is taking away from out state's heritage and is just plain stupid.  Boone was the one who opened up our state for settlers and has a lot more heritage in the state than Hal will ever have.  Change it back.  Enough politicians have made more than enough changes in their honor...patting their own backs."  Harvie Wilder

"I am completely disgusted with Hal Rogers, I voted for him the first time around, but I definitely learned my lesson.  Let's compare the actions of Daniel Boone & Hal Rogers.  Daniel Boone - braved a wilderness and helped create the state of Kentucky, he was a true hero!  Hal Rogers -  a man that hands out 'free' septic tanks (at the cost of people who work) to people who CHOOSE not to work, and I know that a great portion of them did not vote for him in the first place.  People think that Hal Rogers has done so much for Kentucky.  Sure he has helped bring in some jobs - look at what kind they are!  The pay minimum wage and they offer no chance of getting a better job.  Change it back to DANIEL BOONE PARKWAY! Daniel Boone will still be known to Americans long after Hal Rogers is forgotten. Change the name back!"  Anonymous

"I don't think they should mess with our history.  We teach our children in schools everyday about Daniel Boone and Benjamin Franklin and others.  We have named these roads for a reason for respect and to teach about our heritage.  Why would anyone want to change our kids future for my three year old will never know that Daniel Boone once hiked through here and camped under a ledge and a highway was named for him.  Yes, Mr. Rogers has done a lot for Kentucky.  I have contacted him on some issues and he has helped me but that's no reason to strip Daniel Boone of his rights.  You might as well name it Herman Maggard road because he has helped thousands of people from starving, letting them live in his rentals and pay only what they could and letting people charge at his store.  That's my point.  Just because someone does  good deeds, it's not right to strip Daniel Boone of his history and our children of knowing him.  You will have to take his name out of our history books in school too so what's the use of our kids even going to school if you're going to do this. I think it's wrong and a disgrace to mankind and our history."  Mary Feltner

"Although Hal Rogers has helped the people of eastern Kentucky who have been neglected in Washington, we owe our history to Daniel Boone.  Besides, the majority of the buildings that Rogers has allotted funding for bare his name in thanks.  I think that there are many great ways to show our thanks to one of Kentucky's most dedicated politicians, however, changing the name of this parkway is not one!" Jonathan Sumner

"Change in good!!!  But in this case it is not.  How can someone want to change the name of a parkway for his own self esteem.  I think  the voters  should make that decision not Hal Rogers.  When people do their job that they are PAID to do it really shouldn't go to there heads like in many cases in eastern Ky now that the toll way has paid for it self in all those years.  Hal wants to come in and take over. Where was Hal when it still owed money?  Where did his share come from?  If you want this highway then maybe you should be the one to pay for its up keep, not the people who elected you.  Thank you."  Rita Couch, Houston, Texas

"Although I now live in Florida, my heart is still in Kentucky.  I think this is a crazy idea about changing the name of the Daniel Boone Parkway.  When I come home, I look forward to seeing the sign to the Daniel Boone because I know I am almost to Hazard and Daniel Boone is part of our history.  I think they just need to leave it alone."  Wilma in Florida

"I think changing the name of the Daniel Boone Parkway is really sad for Kentucky and it's people cant anyone stop them and who asked the people of Kentucky what they thought about this?  Who is this so called (hero) Hal Rogers?  It just really makes me mad!!!"  Anonymous in Kentucky

"Where does Hal Rogers get off with thinking he should have the parkway named for him?  I admire him for his past work in Kentucky BUT isn't that his elected duty to work for the people ?  Too many of our elected officials forget what they are supposed to be doing  except, work to get re- elected and please big business.  Everyone including Mr. Hal Rogers knows the people who traveled the Daniel Boone Parkway paid it off several years ago with tolls collected especially the coal truckers ! and instead of taking the toll booths out when it was paid off, they were kept to pay off the Bluegrass Parkway which was never traveled enough to pay the toll booth workers salaries much less make payments on the debt.  I challenge anyone to prove me wrong on what I have said about the Daniel Boone Parkway paying for itself with tolls.   I have traveled it hundreds of times and paid my fair share!  What about you Hal?  I WILL NEVER CALL IT THE HAL ROGERS PARKWAY!!  I don't want to blemish Daniel Boone's record in this state with a politician!"  A Disgusted Taxpayer in Ravenna, Ky

"I was born and raised in Kentucky and I am appalled that you have a congressman who thinks more of himself than of the history of a GREAT STATE.  Who does he think he is kidding with the joke about 'honor those persons who are heroes of today'. I'm sure there are other ways to honor today's hero's other than destroying our history.  And what, by the way, makes him a hero.  No one has heard about him, so what makes him a hero?  How can he be humbled and honored when he is taking away a piece of our history?  No matter what the sign says, it will always be Daniel Boone Parkway in the hearts of any true Kentuckian.  I hope the Boone Society takes him down.  A politician that has to have a road named after him is only out for himself and could care less about the people he represents.  While many may move away, we never forget our home in Kentucky."  Susan Summerlin, Orlando, FL  Summerlin44@yahoo.com

"I had heard about this elitist congressman on the evening news a while back but didn't think he would actually go through with such a selfish, self centered, arrogant act.  Who does this man think he is?  He sits in his air conditioned office up there in that bastion of over paid gutless wonders swinging a pen and he is going to compare himself with Daniel Boone.  I do not blame the Boone descendants for being outraged, it is outrageous.  I would sure like to know more about this transportation secretary, James Codell III.  If you could send some history on him it would be much appreciated.  When I read the article, in our local news paper, I was so outraged I had to write someone.  Again if someone could send me some history on Mr. Codell it would be appreciated.  Thank you and have a good day."  Patrick Treviranus, Winter Park, FL  ptrev1@earthlink.ne

Perry County's Oldest Legend

This inscription in a sandstone cliff near Glomawr is the source of one of Perry County's oldest legends, which holds that on a trip to this area in 1776, Daniel Boone marked his camping spot, as he frequently did, with his name and the date.  

Because of the legend, the small Perry County community where the carvings were found, was named Boone Ledge.  For years the area was referred to as "above Glomawr" "below Jeff" or "next to Stormking."  The closest the area came to a formal name was "Old City Fuel Curve." 

Tradition holds that while on a hunting trip up the North Fork of the Kentucky River in 1776, Daniel Boone camped under a ledge by the river near Glomawr and there made the carving. 

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