Darren Doyle, story:
Retired Circuit Court Judge Ronnie Dortch has been publicly reprimanded by the Kentucky Judicial Conduct Commission for an inappropriate sexual relationship with a woman who was indicted in a felony criminal case in which he was presiding.

Dortch retired on January 6, 2017 citing health reasons. 

A statement from the Kentucky JCC said "Because Judge Dortch has retired, a public reprimand is the most severe sanction of Commission can impose. Based upon the foregoing conduct, Judge Dortch is hereby publicly reprimanded."

Dortch served as Circuit Court Judge for the 38th District from 1992 to 2017. The district covers Edmonson, Ohio, Butler, and Hancock Counties. 

​The position of Circuit Court Judge is still vacant.

Smiths Grove, KY (February 28, 2017)-  The Kentucky State Police Post 3 Bowling Green is looking for a 17 year old female, Jade Sierra Chapman of Smiths Grove, who was last seen on February 23, 2017.

She is currently a senior at Edmonson County High School.
 
Chapman is 5’3” tall, 120 pounds, with medium length brown hair and brown eyes.  She was last seen wearing blue jeans and a red shirt.
 
If you have any information pertaining to this case or the whereabouts of Jade Sierra Chapman please call KSP Post 3 at (270)782-2010.  The investigation is still ongoing and being led by Trooper Ashcon Karbasi.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
A Brownsville woman arrested for driving under the influence with juveniles in her vehicle on Thursday was arrested again last night after causing a disturbance at the Brownsville Subway, according to Brownsville Police.

Officials said they received a complaint of a couple that wouldn't leave the restaurant last night and that store employees suspected they were under the influence.

Officers said upon arrival, they immediately saw signs impairment from Andrea Eastman, (31) of Brownsville, who wouldn't leave.

​Police said after administering field sobriety tests, it was determined that Eastman was under the influence of drugs. They reported that she admitted to driving to the restaurant.

She was arrested for Driving under the influence-fourth or greater offense, taken to Caverna Hospital for a blood test, then transported to Hart County Jail.

Police also said that they had been searching for the man with her, Richard J. Smith (34) of Bee Spring, earlier in the day who was wanted on warrants for Assault and Contempt of Court. He was also transported to Hart County Jail.

​Mrs. Pat McCombs, a local resident asked about possible pollution.

"What I can understand is that the Rocky Hill plant used a cleaning agent called Glycol," said Brown. "And I understand that the Glycol had a film and that's where most of the pollution came from. What they (Rocky Hill Plant) were using to purify the gas was a great overkill, so the plant could never operate efficiently because it was always starting and stopping. The new process, which is a refrigeration process, they're air conditioning units. They purify the gas through the same process used in your refrigerator, your home, your air conditioning unit, and in commercial uses like frozen food lockers and things like that."

Steven Miller, another resident who was there with his mother, Debbie, spoke on his parents' behalf.

"First, I want to make it known, and just to be clear, that we've seen lots of reports that the community has been very receptive to this gas plant," said Miller. "I think that's a little misleading. I know there are folks who are receptive to it, but for my parents and a lot of other folks we've talked to, we had no idea it was coming."

Miller also pointed out that he was under the impression that the facility was going to be located halfway between Bowling Green and the Industrial Park so there was not much concern raised in the community. 

"It was reported after a community meeting that it would be located right dead in the middle of a 127 acre farm," added Miller. "It's on the front end of a farm within 300 feet of my parents' property."

Miller went on to say that he understood there was the opportunity for many benefits to the county.

"We're not opposed to Hellervik being in the county, our challenge is, what we're going to petition for, what we're going to continue to pursue is, that Hellervik be that good neighbor that they said they were going to be and get that away from some of the residential areas."

Miller continued to discuss other concerns like air and noise pollution, along with environmental issues such as fracking and its effects. 

"I'm going to be up-front and honest with the court and with Hellervik, I don't think there's going to be anything that can be said or done to make us not oppose the location of this."

Brown responded:

"I totally understand, but you have to realize that we're just not going to move in here and start this plant up. We have to do trial runs, research, follow all these guidelines and all these things. We're happy to keep you informed of all these things as we go along."

​Brown also addressed a question of heavy truck traffic coming in and out of the plant, to which he said there would be none transporting natural gas. Gas would be transported via gas lines in the ground, not by truck, and according to Brown, there would be other components transported out to make other gas products like propane and butane, a portion of the sale of which would be paid to gas well owners in a royalty. Brown said the frequency of the truck traffic would be compared to Rocky Hill, which he said was once every three weeks.

Brown also said there would be no fracking in Hellervik's process. 

Judge Cannon asked if there would be any more community meetings, and Brown said yes.

"We've been coming here for two years," added Brown. "We're not just showing up today and telling you that we're putting in a plant tomorrow. We're trying to keep everyone as informed as possible. I'm sorry we haven't done that as much as some of the neighbors would like. We've been looking at different sites for sometime.

Judge Cannon asked about the possibilities of moving the new facility back further into the woods.

"Sure," Brown answered. "That's the reason we got the acreage."

Brown said Hellervik wanted to move the equipment in, do a test run, work with the community, and come to a solution for everyone.

Cannon added that fiscal court was concerned with people's property value and keeping the people that the court serves happy and safe.

"We are too," said Brown.

Cannon concluded the discussion by reminding the court that neither the county nor any residents have any say so on whether or not a group or business can run any legal operation on a piece of property in Edmonson County, due to the lack of Industrial Zoning.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
With the vacancy in the office of Edmonson County Attorney left by newly appointed Judge J.B. Hines, Judge Executive Wil Cannon appointed Greg Vincent, a local attorney who once held the role to the position. Vincent was sworn in today at the Edmonson County Courthouse as a host of family, friends, and supporters looked on.

After taking the oath of office, Vincent addressed the crowd with heartfelt thanks.

"Thank you all for coming out today," he said. "I'm honored and humbled to be in this position again. I look forward to working with most of you," he added, followed by the crowd's laughter. "Hopefully, we'll be able to do some good things for the county."

County Attorney Vincent also spoke directly to the Edmonson Voice. "I look forward to getting to work with the people and trying to make Edmonson County a better place," he said. 

He also said his private practice will remain in business in a limited capacity. "I'll scale back on some of the things I did because my primary client is now Edmonson County and the Commonwealth of Kentucky."

Judge Wil Cannon said he was honored to have the opportunity to appoint County Attorney Vincent.

"I've worked with several county attorneys over the years while I was with the State Police and now as Judge Executive," he said. "I can tell you, without a doubt, that Greg is the best one I've ever worked with."

Vincent assumed his role immediately and materials and information from the office of now Judge J.B. Hines is being transferred to Vincent's. County Attorney Vincent has asked for patience while everything is transferred, which is hoped to be completed as soon as possible.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
It was standing room only in lower courtroom of the Edmonson County Courthouse today as a huge crowd came out to support J.B. Hines as he was sworn in as the new 38th District Judge by the Honorable Chief Justice John Minton. 

Hines has served as Edmonson County Attorney since January of 2015. After taking the oath of office, he addressed the crowd, wearing his new judge's robe.

"Over the years, I've stood in this courtroom for one side or the other and faced a jury," said Judge Hines. "But I've never had such a jury as I have today; thank you so much for being here."

He went on and said how the courtroom meant so much to him, and that it embodied the principles upon that of which America was built.

"I feel so honored over the years to be part of this system, and I vow to continue to act fairly and impartially as I go forward as a judge."

Hines also thanked Chief Justice Minton, Judge Renona Browning (retired), Judge Kelly Thompson, Judge Mike McCowan, and Judge John McCarty, all of which were in attendance. He recognized all the judges and spoke how each one had helped him along the way.

We spoke one-one-one with Judge Hines and he was grateful for the opportunity.

"Thanks for allowing me to talk with you," he said. "First and foremost, I want to thank my wife, Shaska, who has been a bedrock and so supportive of me. Without her, I wouldn't have been able to do what I've done."

He said being appointed to the judgeship has been a great honor, and he credited the people of Edmonson County for their support over the last few years.

"I've been humbled and honored that Edmonson County has given me an opportunity to serve them and I'll continue to do so in this capacity while also serving all the people of the 38th district," he said with a smile.

Judge Hines also recognized and thanked several members of the bar and the circuit court clerks of the 38th district in attendance which included Shannon Kirtley (Ohio Co.), Melissa Cardwell (Butler Co.), Noel Quinn (Hancock Co.), and Edmonson County's own Tanya Hodges.

"I've worked with Tanya over the years, and I thank her for everything she's done to make me successful in my work and helping the court system in Edmonson County," he said. 

Judge Hines closed his remarks by telling the crowd that he looked forward to working with the people of the 38th District.

"I feel immensely proud and humbled," he added. "Thank you for coming, thank you so much," he said as the crowd raised to their feet in a standing ovation.

Judge Hines' duties are effective immediately and his county attorney office is in the process of transferring all office material, information, records, and documents, to Attorney Greg Vincent, who is set to be sworn in as Edmonson County's Attorney at 2pm today.

Did you miss anything from this week? Catch up on the latest Edmonson County news and updates, including the Wildcats' first district basketball championship in 24 years! Don't wait until next week to get this week's news, check it all out right here. Click on any of the links below.

• Brownsville Woman Charged With DUI With Kids In Car
• Sen. Steve Meredith's Legislative Update: Defunding Planned Parenthood, More
• Wildcats Are District Champions For First Time In 24 Years
• District 12 Individual Awards
• District Championship Celebration Slideshow
• Local Firemen Battle Several Brush Fires, Remind Community That Spring Burn Ban Is In Effect
• Serving Of Summons Leads To Multiple Felony Drug Arrests And Car Chase In Two Separate Incidents
• House Passes Rep. Meredith’s Bill to Secure Permanent Pay Raise Law Enforcement, Qualified Volunteer Fire Depts.
• District Court Report, February 21, 2017
• House Passes Rep. Michael Meredith’s Bill for Bowling Green Veterans Center ​
• Local Resident Severely Injured In Shepherdsville I-65 Crash, Showing Improvements After Reconstructive Surgery
• Governor Bevin Proclaims Severe Weather Awareness Week March 1 – 7, 2017​
• Parks & Rec News: Baseball/Softball Board, Disc Golf Club Make Improvements To Parks​
• Edmonson County Little League Baseball/Softball Applications Here, Deadline Approaching​
• New Local Hero Feature On Edmonson Voice: "Next Door Neighbor"

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
Edmonson County Dispatch received a complaint around 5pm on Thursday, February 23, 2017 from a caller who reported an erratic driver near Laura's Hilltop Restaurant.

According to Brownsville Police, the caller said that the driver of a white Buick appeared to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office made a traffic stop on a vehicle with a matching description at the Sun Valley Feed Mill, where Brownsville Police also made contact.

Officials said the driver, Andrea Eastman (31) of Brownsville, who also had two juveniles in the vehicle, showed signs of impairment and was given field sobriety tests.

​Authorities determined that Eastman was too impaired to drive and was arrested for Driving under the influence. She also faces Wanton Endangerment charges due to the presence of juveniles in the vehicle while she was driving.

According to reports, Eastman was then taken to Caverna Hospital for drug screening and later transported to Hart County Jail.

In a joint statement from both the Brownsville Police Department and Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, both agencies stressed the importance of not getting behind the wheel while being impaired.

"Doing so not only risks your life, but the lives of those with you and other motorists on our community's roadways as well," the statement said.

Darren Doyle, story: 
Fire departments from around the county have battled numerous brush and woods fires over the last couple of weeks, and according to Chalybeate Fire Chief Daniel Johnson, they've occurred during prohibited burning hours.

"We're in a burn ban right now," said Johnson. "According to KRS 149.400, the time between February 15 and April 30 is Kentucky Forest Fire Hazard Season."

Chief Johnson also said that the statewide ban says it is unlawful for any person to set fire to, or procure another to set fire to, any flammable material capable of spreading fire located in or within one hundred fifty feet (150') of any woodland or brushland except between the hours of 6PM and 6AM local time, or unless the ground is covered with snow.

He also noted that with dry and windy conditions, burning a simple pile of trash can quickly get out of hand and burn hundreds, even thousands of acres.

"We've had the Division of Forestry involved of some of these recent fires," he said. "We are encouraging everyone to please obey the law."

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Local officials have reported multiple drug-related arrests that stemmed from serving a criminal summons at a residence in the Windyville area. 

Officers said that when they arrived at the address, the resident and a visitor began acting suspicious, and due to their reactions, the officers suspected illegal activity taking place. Authorities said both parties were questioned and the visitor, Laura June French (46), Morgantown, suggested that the deputies search her vehicle. During the search, officers reported that they found narcotics in the car for which French did not have a prescription.

​French was arrested and charged with Possession of Controlled Substance-First Degree-Second Offense-Drug Unspecified. 

While transporting the individual, officers reported that they met a vehicle on the road that was driven by a man that officers knew did not have a valid driver's license. Officers said they turned in an attempt to make a traffic stop when the vehicle abruptly pulled into a nearby yard and began driving towards the woods.

​During the short chase, deputies reported that the passenger door flew open, a man jumped out of the vehicle, and fled on foot into the woods. His name is currently being withheld due to the current investigation.

Officials said the driver, Danny McGrew (64) Brownsville,  and two other passengers were interviewed and that McGrew gave consent to search the vehicle. Officers said they found a concealed deadly weapon, drug paraphernalia, and a large amount of drug residue that was suspected to be meth inside the vehicle, and since McGrew had been convicted of other felonies in the past, he was not lawfully allowed to have the weapon.

​He was arrested and charged with: Carrying a concealed deadly weapon, Drug Paraphernalia-buy/possess, Possession of controlled substance first degree (meth), and Hindering prosecution or apprehension-first degree.

One of the passengers, Timothy McGrew (58) Brownsville, was also arrested and charged with: Drug Paraphernalia-buy/possess, Possession of controlled substance first degree (meth) (third or greater offense), and Hindering prosecution or apprehension-first degree.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (February 24, 2017) – Today, the House passed a measure to secure permanent pay raises for law enforcement and firefighters and increase annual allotments to qualified volunteer fire departments. House Bill 60, sponsored by Rep. Michael Meredith, R-Brownsville, makes raises that were implemented in the 2016 Regular Session permanent.
 
“Our first responders are dedicated to ensuring the safety of our communities,” said Rep. Meredith. “Public safety workers face unprecedented threats these days and I firmly believe they should be compensated to the best of our state’s ability. I commend the House for swiftly passing this measure, and I look forward to its consideration in the Senate.”

House Bill 60 seeks to solve the pay disparity that exists for law enforcement and firefighters, and help retain and attract dedicated servants. The measure also increases annual allotments to volunteer fire departments from $8,250 to $11,000 to help with the purchase of needed equipment.  As the country sees a rise in on-the-job fatalities, particularly in law enforcement, pay raises for those who put themselves in the line of danger while on the job are becoming more and more necessary.
 
The measure now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, February 21, 2017. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding.

Blake Vanover, Speeding 25mph over limit. Failed to appear, notice sent to Dept. of Transportation.

Tasha Renee Jones, Speeding 18mph over limit. Continue in two weeks.

Gatt R Ware, Speeding 17mph over limit. Failed to appear, notice sent to Dept. of Transportation.

Samantha J. Phillips, Speeding 19mph over limit. Failed to appear, notice sent to Dept. of Transportation.

Frances K Embry, Speeding 16mph over limit. Failed to appear, notice sent to Dept. of Transportation.

Amber Kay Mason, Improper registration plate. Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/second offense or more. Instructional permit violation. Improper registration plate. Continue on March 28, 2017.

Edward Michael Samac, Speeding 18mph over limit. Continue in two weeks.

Max A Holloway, Speeding 25 mph over limit. Continue in two weeks.

According to an announcement from Mammoth Cave National Park, the park has temporarily closed ferry service to trailers and long vehicles.  The Green River Ferry is not able to safely ferry vehicles with trailers or vehicles with a long wheel base.  The level of Green River is 1.2 feet.

The park has also announced that the ferry will remain closed beginning 9:00 a.m. Friday, February 24, 2017, for general maintenance.  It will reopen as soon as the work is complete.

For ferry service status, please call 270-758-2166.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (February 23, 2017) –Today, the House passed a measure which commits $10.5 million in matching state bonding funds for a veteran’s nursing home in Bowling Green. House Bill 13, sponsored by Rep. Michael Meredith, R-Brownsville, completes a necessary step for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to begin construction on the facility.
 
“The brave men and women who have selflessly served our country deserve accessible healthcare,” said Rep. Meredith, who has led the charge on this issue since 2016. “South central Kentucky has seen immense growth, leading to an underserved population of veterans. This legislation will ensure funds for the facility are matched through the state, and those who have worn the uniform will not be forgotten about. I thank the House for passing this measure and supporting Kentucky’s veterans.”    
 
The Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs (KDVA) conducted a market assessment and feasibility study for the State Veterans’ Nursing Home Program. Upon reviewing the placement of future facilities, KDVA concluded that south central Kentucky was the area most in need of a veterans’ nursing home.
 
The measure passed the House 99-0. It heads to the Senate for consideration and, if passed, will be signed by the Governor into law.

Darren Doyle, story:
A Brownsville man was severely injured in an accident involving a tractor trailer on I-65 yesterday in Shepherdsville.

According to a Shepherdsville Police report, a 2002 Peterbuilt semi lost a trailer load which contained 42,000 pounds of rolled steel. The report also said that the out-of-control trailer went into the center portion of the highway and threw debris into the air and into oncoming northbound traffic. The truck was reportedly registered to O and I Transport out of Michigan City, IN, driven by Jeffery Lee Mayfield, (48) of Louisville. 

The report also stated that this debris was thrown into the path of David Houchin, (61) of Brownsville, who was traveling north on I-65 in a 2010 Ford Expedition. Houchin reportedly swerved to avoid the debris and clipped a 2013 Ford Edge, driven by Mindy Tucker (39) of Cox's Creek, KY. This caused Houchin's vehicle to leave the roadway where it collided with a tree.

Houchin suffered severe head and facial injuries and was taken to University of Louisville Hospital by Bullitt County EMS.

According to family members, Houchin was traveling to a Louisville hospital to visit his brother Terry, who had been ill for quite some time. Houchin, who is more commonly known as "Dink," and a longtime employee of the Bank of Edmonson County, is showing improvement after surgery, according to his brother, Tommy.

"They took him to surgery last night about 10 o'clock," said Tommy. "They were concerned that he might lose his eye, but after reconstructive surgery, it seems to be doing much better today. He was responding to verbal commands this morning, which is an extremely positive sign."

The report does not say what caused the semi truck to lose the load and the Shepherdsville Police declined to give any further information than what was listed on the report.

"We know everyone's been praying for us and we appreciate it," Tommy said. "Please continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers."

from the office of Edmonson County Emergency Management:
Governor Matt Bevin has signed a proclamation proclaiming March 1 - 7, 2017, as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Kentucky.
 
Partnering with Kentucky Emergency Management and the National Weather Service,  Edmonson County Emergency Management recognizes March 1 - 7, 2017, as “Severe Weather Awareness Week in Kentucky.” 
 
Edmonson County Emergency Management Director Pat Prunty, said, “Weather is always a threat in Kentucky. Each year our citizens face the dangers of severe weather in many forms; from severe storms that create tornadoes and straight line winds, to deadly lightning, flooding, and severe winter storms.”   Prunty continued,” It is important to ensure your safety and the safety of your family. Plan ahead and know what to do when severe weather threatens our community.” 

A statewide tornado drill is being conducted in conjunction with the Governor’s proclamation and you are encouraged to participate.
 
At approximately 10:007 a.m. EST, Tuesday, Feb 28, the National Weather Service, in partnership with Kentucky Emergency Management, the Kentucky Weather Preparedness Committee, and Kentucky Broadcasters Association will issue a tornado warning test message.  
 
Outdoor warning sirens may sound across Kentucky communities; weather alert radios will activate; and television and radio stations and mobile devices will broadcast the alert.  This drill will give the public the opportunity to practice tornado safety measures.
 
The broadcast test message will emphasize this is only a test of the alert system.  During the test alert, all Kentuckians, businesses, hospitals, nursing homes, educators and government agencies are encouraged to practice their tornado safety drill and update their emergency plan.
 
Severe weather preparedness begins with knowing severe weather risks:
Step 1. Understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather can impact you and your family.
 
Step 2. Check the weather forecast regularly. Get a NOAA Weather Radio and sign up for localized alerts from emergency management officials.  
 
Step 3. Develop a personal emergency plan that considers all types of local hazards and associated risks.  
 
If you do not have a tornado plan; make one using these guidelines:

• Designate a tornado shelter in an interior room on the lowest level of a building, away from windows. 
•  Basements are best, but, if there is no basement, choose an interior bathroom, closet or other enclosed space on the lowest level of a building.   
• Tell everyone where the designated shelter is and post the location.

 
To conduct a tornado drill at home or work:

• Announce the start of the drill.  
•  Participants should act as though a tornado warning has been issued for the immediate area or a tornado has been sighted nearby. They should move as quickly as possible to the designated tornado shelter.  
• Once people reach predestined safe areas, they should crouch as low as possible to the floor, facing down, covering their heads with their hands.
•  Once everyone has reached safe shelter, announce the mock tornado has passed and the drill is complete.  
• After the drill, perform an assessment.  Determine if the shelter you chose was large enough for everyone, easy to get to and uncluttered.

Help emergency managers and weather officials improve weather notifications and awareness campaigns by completing a short online survey, available at http://kyem.ky.gov/preparedness/Pages/default.aspx.   

During severe weather, if you are caught outdoors and unable to seek indoor shelter; lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands.  Be aware of the potential for flooding.
 
Remember, outdoor sirens are not designed to warn indoor inhabitants, and tornadoes also strike during the night. If you are asleep or don't happen to have a television or radio turned on when a severe weather warning is issued; battery-backed weather alert radios are always on and ready to sound an alarm. This is the most effective way to monitor severe weather watches and warnings at any time of day or night. 
 
Homes and businesses alike should have and monitor weather alert radios which automatically transmit NWS severe weather watches and warnings 24 hours a day.
 
Severe weather safety information and resources can be found at www.kyem.ky.gov, www.weather.gov and www.ready.gov.
 
 If inclement weather is in the forecast on Feb 28, the Statewide Tornado Drill will be rescheduled.

Superintendent Patrick Waddell presented Board Member Tonya Jones a certificate from KSBA Academy of Studies at the board meeting February 13, 2017.
​
The KSBA Academy of Studies is a voluntary program designed to assist board members in obtaining continuing education while satisfying the legal requirements for annual in-service training.  It provides a framework that helps direct members' efforts and recognizes their commitment to continuous learning.
courtesy ECBOE:

County Clerk Kevin Alexander has announced that his office will be closed on Saturday, February 18, and Monday, February 20, 2017 in observance of President's Day. 

Edmonson Voice Sports, Madison Doyle, photos:
Several seniors and their friends and family members took center court tonight at ECHS to celebrate Senior Night 2017 for boys basketball, girls basketball, archery, cheerleading, and band. The Lady Cats won over Greenwood 66-56 and the Wildcats won 70-68 against Logan County.

​Check out the participants in the slideshow below.

Seniors not present: Bailey Burba from Archery, and Emily Vincent, Patrick Cowles, Spencer McMurdo, Kolbie Vincent, Katie Johnson, Jared Grimes, and Tabitha Miller of Band.

Darren Doyle, story: EdmonsonVoice SKYview photos:
Hellervik Oil has announced the location of their new natural gas purification facility, which is in the 16000 block of Louisville Road, near the junction of KY HWY 422 and U.S. 31W.

The plant will sit in the middle of an 8.5 acre tract belonging to Hellervik, INC., which is surrounded by a heavily wooded area that's over 100 acres.

Jim Brown, the Kentucky field representative for Hellervik, said that equipment is now being prepared and the company was about a month away from pouring concrete.

Brown said Hellervik was very pleased with the work done so far, which was performed by local contractor, Tommy Brooks.

"Tommy was a Godsend," Brown said. "We discussed the work, he gave us a fair price, we shook hands, and he went to work. That's how we like to do business."

Brown said Hellervik would continue to look for local contractors whenever possible to complete the remaining work. 

Brown said that Hellervik will continue doing everything they can to assure the residents of Edmonson County that they are committed to being a community and business partner.

"We have a vested interest in this community. Of course we want to sell natural gas, but we also want to bring jobs here and we want to be good neighbors."

He pointed out that this facility would be only 1/10th of the size of the failed Rocky Hill plant that did nothing but upset the community.

"There's no comparison with this and the Rocky Hill plant. Here, there'll be no chemical discharge, no odors, and no sound pollution. The folks in Rocky Hill had all of that going on and we understand why they were so upset. The old plant was designed to work at a much larger scale than was even possible in this area."

According to Brown, the community has been very receptive to their new operation.

"We've talked to so many landowners and it's been really positive," he said. "What we're finding out is that people are very interested in buying and selling natural gas at a fair price and we're working hard to see that happen. Our facility will serve as mainly a purification place. We'll remove nitrogen from the gas at the proper level to sell."

Brown said the plan was to have the new facility up and running by mid summer. 

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Emergency personnel responded to a structure fire at the junction of KY HWY 259 and Chaumont Road around 6:20pm this evening that was fully engulfed when they arrived.

The Rocky Hill, Chalybeate, and Brownsville Fire Departments battled the blaze for over an hour as they fought to keep the fire contained in a specific zone. Embers and debris floated across the road and caused brush and grass fires nearby.

Workers on scene said that the structure was a log cabin-type building that had been abandoned for years. Emergency personnel also said that they believed the owners no longer lived in the area and hadn't for some time.

Since there was no electric service to the building, and certainly no lightning, several witnesses on scene said arson could be suspected; however, no official word was given as to the cause of the blaze.

The building and all contents were lost in the fire, but even in spite of the huge flames in a congested area, firefighters were able to keep the fire contained to one general area.

No injuries were reported during the incident.

In addition to the three fire departments, the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office and the Kentucky State Police were also on scene.

Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, February 14, 2017. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding. 

Christina M. Sullivan, Theft by deception-including cold checks under $500, (two counts). Continue in two weeks.

Erik Anderson Harley, Possession of controlled substance, first degree, first offense (meth). Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security first. Failure to or improper signal. No/expired registration plates. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Attorney appointed. Pretrial hearing for 2/21/17.

Ashlie Lindsey, Operating motor vehicle with expired operator's license. No/expired registration plates. No/expired KY registration receipt. Continue in two weeks.

Jackee L Gable, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Continue in two weeks.

Joshua Lee Smith, No/expired registration plates. No/expired KY registration receipt. Failure to register transfer of motor vehicle. Proof shown on all counts, all counts dismissed.

Matthew A. Davis, No/expired registration plates. No/expired KY registration receipt. Proof shown for both counts, both counts dismissed.

Tiana Marie Downs, Speeding 25mph over limit. Failure to notify address change to dept. of transportation. No/expired KY registration receipt. No/expired registration plates. Failed to appear, notice sent to dept. of transportation.

Chelsie R. Keown, Operating vehicle with expired operator's license. Proof shown, dismissed. No/expired registration plates. Proof shown, dismissed. Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security first. Pleaded guilty. Fined $500, $450 of which probated for 90 days.

Sara B. Zachary, No/expired KY registration receipt. Proof shown, dismissed. Failure to produce insurance card. Pleaded guilty, fined $25. Total costs and fines, $168.

House Republican Leadership for Edmonson Voice: 
​Photo: House Majority Communications--
According to a statement from the House Republican Leadership, the Kentucky Department of Veteran’s Affairs recently conducted a market assessment and feasibility study for the State Veteran’s Home Program. After studying the placement of future facilities, they concluded that south central Kentucky was the area most in need of a veteran’s nursing home, prompting swift committee passage of House Bill 13, sponsored by Rep. Meredith.

On Wednesday, the House Committee on Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection passed this legislation by a wide margin, which commits $10.5 million in matching state bonding funds for a veteran’s nursing home in Bowling Green. The project is pending, based on the commitment of the state to provide matching funds.
 
“As your representative, I have always been fully engaged on veteran’s issues,” said Meredith. “I understand the dire need that veterans have for more beds, better care, and accessible facilities in the Bowling Green area. I am pleased to see the findings of the KDVA, and applaud members of the committee for moving forward on this critically important legislation.
 
Meredith pre-filed House Bill 13 last June. The $10.5 million in state funds, along with $20 million in federal funding, would provide for a 90-bed facility for veterans.
 
Following swift committee passage, HB 13 will now move to the House Floor for debate and a vote.

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Judge Executive Wil Cannon has announced that local attorney Greg Vincent will be appointed as the new County Attorney after current County Attorney J.B. Hines is sworn in as the new District Court Judge for Division 1 of the 38th Judicial District on February 27, 2017.

Cannon said that he began interviewing candidates as soon as Hines was nominated for the judgeship. 

"We had to be prepared in the event that J.B. was appointed by the governor and that's exactly what happened," said Cannon. "We can't be without a county attorney and I felt like Greg was the best choice to fill this vacancy. He has 16 years experience as our county attorney and we're confident that he'll fit in well with our county government now."

Attorney Greg Vincent said he is humbled by the appointment and looks forward to serving again in the role that he previously held.

"I'm honored to be asked to come back and help the county," Vincent said. "Frankly, I never really expected to be back in this position. I was happy to be in the private business, but after continually being asked to fill the vacancy by other county government officials and many citizens, I accepted."

Vincent said he plans to remain in his current office at 103 East Main Cross Street on the square and that everything pertaining to the county attorney office will be moved from J.B. Hines' office next door on February 28. 

"It will take a little time, so I ask for your patience while we make the transition," said Vincent. "We'll have to have secure computer and phone lines installed and some other things, but we'll do everything we can to make the change as efficiently and quickly as possible."

​Cannon said the decision came down to who he felt would serve Edmonson County the best as County Attorney and Cannon's past experience with Vincent had already proven out.

"I was a Kentucky State Trooper when I first met Greg. At that time he was a defense attorney, and a good one," said Cannon. "Soon after, he was elected as our County Attorney and he was by far the best local prosecutor I've ever worked with."

Vincent is scheduled to be sworn in on February 27, 2017 at 2pm at the courthouse. Hines' swearing-in ceremony is scheduled to take place on the same day at 11am, also at the courthouse. Vincent said he's happy to have the opportunity to serve his county again, especially being a county native.

"I'll try to do everything I can to help Edmonson County, whether it be through the local government and fiscal court or assisting our local law enforcement," he added.

Vincent also said he plans to continue his private practice, although he'll have to make some changes to accommodate the new role he'll assume in a couple of weeks.