News Item #1228

Kentucky’s oft-derided “Mr. Smiley” license plate is being replaced with a much blander plate featuring the “Unbridled Spirit” motto: Hopkinsville Kentucky New Era: Goodbye smiley face...; Fletcher frowns on state's happy plates (June 30, 2005) , (Covington) Kentucky Post: New state motto hitting stride (July 5, 2005) , WAVE 3: Unpopular License Plates Phased Out Early (July 26, 2005) , Ashland Daily-Independent: Governor unveils new 'Unbridled Spirit' plate (July 19, 2005) , Courier-Journal: 'Unbridled Spirit' plates are unveiled; 'Smiley' licenses ride into sunset (July 20, 2005) , Cincinnati Enquirer: Smiley plate exiled early; Governor cites tag's incorrect 'panache' (July 20, 2005) , Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: Governor Ernie Fletcher Unveils New Unbridled Spirit License Plate; Sun Sets On “Smiley Face” Plate (July 19, 2005) , Governor Ernie Fletcher’s Communication Office: Governor Ernie Fletcher unveils new Unbridled Spirit license plate (July 19, 2005)