An unemployment extension going into effect this week could allow individuals an additional 13 weeks of pay if they have drawn all of their benefits.

Workforce Development Manager Tommy Wheatley said the career centers in all of the counties in Kentucky are getting ready for the new program.

Wheatley works out of the Elizabethtown office, but covers eight counties in the state including Grayson.

“We are getting the system ready to accept it (unemployment extension),” explained Wheatley. “Letters were mailed out to those who qualify.”

Wheatley added that people could go to www.oet.ky.gov or call 1-859-547-3362 if a claim has been exhausted.

“You can pull any job listing we have on the table also on the website,” said Wheatley.

Wheatley urges people to stay positive when going out to apply for a job. He added the key thing for people to do is to let family and friends know of ones desire to work.

“Most of the time a family member or friend knows of something coming open ahead of time,” explained Wheatley. “Search all avenues. Stay in touch with the local career center (Leitchfield). You may get turned down when going for a job interview, but do not get discouraged.”

He said when looking for employment to treat it as a job and spend several hours looking for one.

Wheatley said a positive in Grayson County is the recent hiring of the economic development person.

“When trying to get new employers to the area a position like this is huge benefit,” added Wheatley. “They are the driving force for employment in the area.”