A night celebrating the accomplishments of others brings a prominent U.S. senator into Eastern Kentucky.

Senator Mitch McConnell was in Hazard Wednesday night for Civic Night, an event honoring those who have went above and beyond over the past year. The senator also talked about some key issues including the state of U.S. economy and the war in Iraq.

On a night when Hazard honored it's own, the city also welcomed U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell to the First Federal Center in Perry County. McConnell was there to help honor some local folks. He also talked about two things that are on many American minds, the economy and the war in Iraq.

"We regret the loss of life of our military. Their each courageous, outstanding people that volunteered for a very hazardous duty and protected us here at home for these many years," McConnell said.

McConnell knows the country is growing tired of the war and the loss of life from it. He told the capacity crowd the war is a different war, one with an enemy that most times cannot be see. Because of this, McConnell says the fact the war has stayed overseas has made it a success.

"Who would have thought we wouldn't have had an attack again for six years. It's been because of our courageous military that's been on offense in Afghanistan and Iraq. They've killed a lot of the terrorists many are in Guantanamo which I think is a perfect place for them myself," McConnell said.

On the subject of the economy, he says its slowing down but he hopes the slow down is temporary. McConnell says one of the ways to help a sluggish economy is to give tax incentives to people looking to buy into the housing market.

The senator says the economy and the situation overseas may not be where many want it to be, but America is up to the challenge.

Several people that make Hazard and Perry County a better place to live were also recognized Wednesday night.

Among the awards handed out, Lillie Baker was the Woman of the Year, and Lt. Governor and Hazard native Daniel Mongiardo was picked as the Man of the Year.

"I think this is an award about the hope for the future. I think the people in Eastern Kentucky are looking for leadership to bring us to a level that we all know we have here. Eastern Kentucky is the best place in this state and I think the best place in this country and that makes it the best place in the world to live in and we need to bring it to a level we can all be proud of," Mongiardo said.

The Young Woman of the Year was Charla Napier and WYMT's own Chief Meteorologist Jim Caldwell was completely surprised when his name was called for Young Man of the Year. Jim began his career at WYMT when he was only 18 and he has many fans, including Hazard's mayor.

"He is a wonderful person and makes a wonderful contribution, not only to Hazard and Perry County, but to all of Eastern Kentucky and we're honored to be able to honor him tonight," Hazard Mayor Bill Gorman said.

The Youth of the Year was Madison McIntyre of Leatherwood Elementary and Dwight Vires of Perry County Central was Teen of the Year.

Several others received special awards.