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 KY District 19 Representative Michael Lee Meredith (R). FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 29, 2021) - Representative Michael Meredith, R-Oakland, announced today that federal grant funding from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is available for the completion of the Bowling Green Veterans Nursing Home. “About six years ago, I became involved in a journey to bring a nursing home to Bowling Green to serve the veterans of South Central Kentucky,” Meredith said. “Today, we got the letter we’ve been waiting for and we will now be able to move forward on this worthy project for our veterans. This project has been the most important work I’ve done during my tenure in the Kentucky House of Representatives.” This will be Kentucky's fifth veterans’ nursing home, and the first for the South Central Kentucky region. The existing state veterans home are located in Wilmore, Radcliff, Madisonville and Hazard. The completion of the Bowling Green Veterans Nursing Home has been a legislative priority for Meredith for several years “Local leaders and veterans saw the need for a veterans nursing home in South Central Kentucky and started planning for this project around 10 years ago. They put their faith in me and asked me to lead their legislative efforts,” Meredith added. “Since 2016, I have been a staunch advocate for state funding for this nursing home. In 2017, I was able to pass HB 13 and we’ve had $10.5 million ready to go since then. In 2020, I passed HB 24 to secure another $2.5 million for design and pre-construction work. Just a few weeks ago, the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs and the Transpark agreed on a site. For six years, we’ve waited for a federal funding letter for the other $19.5 million in federal money needed for this $30 million project, and today we finally got it. ” Meredith thanked local leaders for helping secure federal funding for the veterans nursing home. “So many people have been involved in this project. I am thankful for each and every one of them,” Meredith said. “This would not have been possible without our local, state, and federal leaders who have graciously offered their guidance, support, and leadership. I want to specifically thank the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs and the Barren River Area Development District (BRADD) for their help with the application process. I also want to thank the veterans who started this process, with special recognition to Colonel Robert Spiller, who has passed away, and Dr. Ray Biggerstaff, a proud Vietnam Veteran who served as Executive Officer of the Medevac Company with the 101st Airborne. With this funding, the brave and courageous veterans of South Central Kentucky will finally get the care they need and deserve. Having an adequate facility to properly care for our aging veterans is the least we can do for those that were willing to give so much for our freedom.” 
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 Emergency personnel work at the scene of a fatal accident in Bee Spring. Darren Doyle, story and photo: A Louisville woman has died as a result of injuries sustained in a two-vehicle crash in Bee Spring earlier today. Today around 2:00 PM, Kentucky State Police were requested by the Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office to investigate a fatal collision. Troopers responded to the 10,000 block of KY-259 N in Edmonson County, according to a press release. KSP said that the preliminary investigation revealed 46 year-old Julia E. Broderick, of Louisville, was operating a 2007 Honda Accord southbound on KY 259 North in the Bee Spring community when Broderick's vehicle crossed the center line and struck a 2012 GMC truck, which was also towing a Nitro bass boat, being operated by 54 year-old Stanley K. Bragg of Smiths Grove, who was northbound. Julia Broderick was pronounced deceased on the scene by Edmonson County Deputy Coroner Richie Jones. Bragg and a passenger in his vehicle, 75 year-old Stanley V. Bragg, were transported to Bowling Green Medical Center by Edmonson County EMS and treated for non-life threatening injuries. The investigation is being led by Trooper Mike Wathen. He was assisted on the scene by Edmonson County Coroner's Office, Edmonson County EMS, Kyrock Fire Department, Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, and Kentucky Department of Transportation.   Firearm, drugs, and drug paraphernalia confiscated by the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office in Friday's arrest. Edmonson Voice Report: A man and woman were arrested on Friday night and face multiple drug-related charges after a traffic stop in Edmonson County. According to a press release from the Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy observed a vehicle traveling north on KY HWY 259 N without a rear license plate light. As a result, a traffic stop was initiated. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Douglas Sanders, (33) of Cub Run. According to the Sheriff's Office, the deputy smelled the odor of marijuana emitting from the vehicle and saw drug paraphernalia laying in plain view. A search of the vehicle resulted in various forms of drug paraphernalia, suspected marijuana, and suspected methamphetamine, along with a firearm and ammunition, according to the press release. Sanders and the passenger of the vehicle, identified as Jenny Durbin (41) of Bee Spring, Kentucky were arrested and charged with:
Sanders was additionally charged with:
Both were lodged in Hart County Jail.   Vietnam vets in attendance at today's ceremony were recognized with commemorative pins. Darren Doyle, story, photos, and video: The Edmonson County National Vietnam War Veterans Day Ceremony was hosted at the Brownsville Community Center today by the Disabled American Veterans and Auxiliary Wand B. Doyle Chapter 32. President Donald Trump signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017, which recognizes March 29th at National Vietnam War Veterans Day. March 29 was chosen as National Vietnam War Veterans Day because on March 29, 1973, Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV) was disbanded and the last U.S. combat troops departed the Republic of Vietnam. The last unit was elements of MACV's Infantry Security Force (Special Guard), actually special couriers.* Local and guest speakers addressed the crowd today, which included State Representative Michael Meredith and Edmonson County Judge Executive Wil Cannon; each giving thanks and honor to Vietnam Veterans. The ceremony was hosted by DAV Chapter 32 Commander Jack Hasty and it featured Debra Jefferies Reece, DAVA Chapter 20 Commander in Glasgow. Reece also recognized local Chapter 32 DAVA Commander Maurita Miller for her continued work in honoring and helping veterans.  Today's special guest speaker was Mike Stoyonovich, Army First SGT. Ret., and DAV #32 Adjutant, as well as Kentucky State DAV Jr. Vice Commander and Executive Committee member. Sgt. Stoyonovich shared several personal experiences of his own from the Vietnam war, including when he first arrived in Vietnam on January 11, 1968 on a commercial jet; however, as the plane started to land, it began taking fire and had to quickly acsend. "The landing wheels went down on the jet and we were close to landing and all of the sudden, we started taking fire from the jungle adjacent to the Bien Hoa Air Base," he said. Stoyonovich said that after about ten more minutes of flying, they saw four American gun ships out their window as they unloaded in the jungle area from where the gunfire came. "There was a big ball of smoke in the jungle, and needless to say at that point, we didn't receive anymore small arms fire. We were able to land safely on the tarmac." He also described other experiences; one specifically where he somehow escaped gunfire all around him, inexplicably. He said a fellow soldier told him that it must have been God watching over him and that Stoyonovich would surely have a purpose later in life. "So that night, I got down on my knees and gave my life to Jesus Christ, because there's no it could've been any other explanation except from an intervention from the Lord." He said that helping local veterans and their families now as member of the DAV is part of that purpose. Penny Saltsman, DAVA #32 Adjutant recognized all Vietnam Veterans that were present and each received honorary pins commemorating their service. Jack Hasty, Mike Stoyonovich, and Ronnie Stewart then called names of local Vietnam veterans that were killed in action as the bell was tolled for each name. The ceremony concluded with the presenting of the honorary wreath by veteran Johnny Russell as Boy Scout Troop 597 presented the colors for both the start and conclusion of the program. The ceremony ended with a 21-gun salute by VFW Post 6937 members and the playing of "Taps" by veteran Bennie Durbin. Judge Wil Cannon said he was honored to not only attend the ceremony but also sit as a guest speaker. "I think you have the most patriotic county in the whole United States right here," he said. "It's important we do this because when our veterans came home from Vietnam, they were looked down upon, they were spit on, cussed, mistreated in all sorts of ways. This is a way that we can let them know we appreciate them, and they're not forgotten." Mike Stoyonovich said he was proud of the turnout from today's ceremony and thanked all the local volunteers who made today possible. "I don't have the words to express how I feel as a Vietnam veteran and a veteran that sees all my brothers and sisters here today," he said. "Since President Trump designated March 29th for Vietnam Veterans Day, I think a lot of veterans organizations will make sure these ceremonies take place. I know the Disabled American Veterans is having them all across the state today." Special thanks for today's program include: Madison's Flowers for the wreath, Lebanon National Cemetery and Nathan and Shelly Carroll for providing handouts and Vietnam Veteran lapel pins, Chad Russell for refreshments, Ronnie Stewart, DAV #32 member for sound and video slideshow, and DAV and Auxiliary and VFW members for additional assistance. *https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Vietnam_War_Veterans_Day   Edmonson Voice Staff Report: The Barren River District Health Department is currently administering COVID-19 vaccines for individuals 18 years of age and older in all 8 of the county clinics. Effective March 25, 2021, the BRDHD will schedule appointments for April for 18 years of age and older. Due to vaccine supply, vaccine clinics will occur on specific days for each county. Once the appointments are full for April, scheduling will continue in mid-April for the month of May. The BRDHD listed the following instructions for scheduling an appointment online:
If you do not have internet access and do not have someone to assist you with the online process, please call the Barren River District Health Department between 8:00am to 4:30pm Monday-Friday at 270-781-8039 and press option 1.  Illinois Fugitive Nabbed In Local Reckless Driving Incident: Others Arrested For Meth, More3/25/2021  Edmonson Voice Report: A man and woman were both recently arrested and face multiple drug charges while another was arrested in the same incident as a fugitive out of Illinois after a traffic stop. According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, an Edmonson County deputy jailer called in a reckless driver complaint on Brownsville Road on March 19th. The Sheriff's Office stated that the deputy jailer continued following the vehicle through Brownsville and onto Morgantown Road, where an Edmonson sheriff's deputy then observed the vehicle traveling westbound on Morgantown Road in the middle of the highway, where a traffic stop was then initiated. The driver of the vehicle was identified as April Flora (39) of Bowling Green. Upon making contact with Flora, the deputy observed drug paraphernalia in plain view and detected the odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle, the Sheriff's Office said. A search of the vehicle was performed and produced drug paraphernalia, suspected marijuana, and suspected methamphetamine, according to the Sheriff's Office. Flora and a front-seat passenger, identified as Christopher Reeves (49) of Sturgis, Kentucky were both placed under arrest and charged with:
A third passenger, identified as Chontel M. Powell, was discovered to have an outstanding arrest warrant from Granite City, Illinois and was arrested and charged with Fugitive from Another State.   Darren Doyle, story: A Brownsville woman was arrested for DUI after a head-on collision on the Brownsville bridge on Tuesday, according to law enforcement officials. According to Kentucky State Police, Bonnie A. Vincent (66) of Brownsville was northbound on the Brownsville bridge on the wrong side of the road in a 2006 Chevy Colorado pickup when she struck a 2014 Dodge Ram pickup head-on, driven by Forrest Warden, (44) of Sweeden, who was headed south across the bridge. Video of the incident obtained by the Edmonson Voice was captured by a witness who was traveling behind Vincent's truck. Video of the head-on collision on the Brownsville Bridge. At least two anonymous witnesses said they made complaint calls as a result of the yellow truck driving recklessly on the wrong side of the road beginning at Bertie's Ice Cream; however, the accident happened almost immediately, before law enforcement could investigate. According to the arrest citation, Vincent showed signs of impairment, was unable to answer standard questions from the investigating officer, and could not provide her address. The citation also said she told state police that while she had multiple prescriptions, she had not consumed any alcohol. KSP said no injuries were reported. Also responding to the scene was the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, the Brownsville and Kyrock Fire Departments, JAWS, the KY Transportation Cabinet, and Edmonson EMS. Vincent was arrested and charged with:
She was transported to the Hart County Jail.   Darren Doyle, story: More than two million dollars in federal funding are headed to Edmonson County within the next two months; however, guidelines for the use of the funds have not yet been made clear, according to Judge Executive Wil Cannon in today's Edmonson County Fiscal Court meeting. The funding is part of the American Rescue Plan Act, which is the $1.9 trillion economic stimulus plan that was signed into law on March 11th. The plan earmarks $350 billion for state, local, and tribal governments for the purpose of lost revenue and other financial losses during the COVID-19 pandemic. District 2 Magistrate Corey VanMeter asked who gets to decide where the money goes and where the spending will go. Judge Cannon said he and county treasurer attended a virtual meeting with state officials on Friday to discuss the funding; however, he said those questions have yet to be answered. "It can only be spent certain ways," Cannon said. "We're not positive, really on how it can be spent. We think it will be similar to the CARES Act money which will be emergency personnel-kind-of things." Cannon also said that some of the uses discussed were water and broadband utilities but that broadband services are getting separate funds, and that money from this grant would not likely go there. If anything, broadband funding would only be complimented by the county's spending. Cannon also said it was unclear whether or not the spending would be decided by himself, which was the case in previous CARES funding, or if by fiscal court vote or other means. Cannon said even if left up to the Judge Executive's discretion, he would likely bring it before fiscal court for discussion. He also noted that he welcomed any magistrate to discuss the funding possibilities with him at any time. "It's so broad, the way they threw it out there, that nobody really knows the answers to these questions that you asked," he said in reply to Magistrate VanMeter. "Those same questions were asked Friday and not a single conclusive answer was given." County Treasurer Whillhite said the county is to receive 50% of the total funding within the next 60 days and then the remaining balance within the next 12-18 months. She said this was guaranteed money to the county without an application process and would not be reimbursement. The funding has to be spent by the end of 2024 or the remainder would have to be refunded to the federal government. County Reports: Road Report: County Road Supervisor Greg Carroll said that crews had completed repairs on bridges and other flooding damages throughout the county and that he was applying for aid from FEMA for those costs, which are estimated to be around $3.5 million from over 300 separate incidents. He also reported that county crews plan to begin paving projects for this year beginning on April 5th. Judge Cannon updated the court with a jail report that showed 19 county inmates currently housed in the Hart County Jail. Sheriff Report: Sheriff Shane Doyle reported several drug arrests over the past week as well as capturing a fugitive out of Illinois. He also discussed the need for another vehicle to replace one that was beyond repair. Magistrates voted later in the meeting to allow the purchase of a patrol truck, similar to what the officers currently use. Funding will come from previously granted CARES Act money. County Clerk Kevin Alexander had no report but announced to the court that his office would be closed on Friday, April 2nd and Saturday, April 3rd for Good Friday and Easter, respectively.  In an item tabled from the last fiscal court meeting, magistrates voted against the county sending funding to WKU's Small Business Development Center. Treasurer Willhite contacted surrounding area county governments and discovered that eight other counties decided against the funding. No one from the court had any evidence regarding how the SBDC assisted any Edmonson County business in any way. Magistrate Edd Rich made the motion to decline funding and stated that anytime the fiscal court approves to spend taxpayer dollars, those dollars should directly benefit Edmonson County. He said he didn't see any benefit here. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. Blake Williams, with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, provided the fiscal court a report that outlined funding from the state for rural secondary road projects in Edmonson County for the next fiscal year. He provided the following information:
The fiscal court also voted to:
The next Edmonson County Fiscal Court meeting is scheduled to be held virtually on April 12, 2021.   Darren Doyle, story: Active COVID cases in Edmonson County remained nearly the same for another week, according to the latest data released from the Barren River District Health Department. It is the sixth consecutive week that cases have either declined or remained steady in the county. The BRDHD reported a total of 918 cases from the start of the pandemic, 838 recoveries, and 18 deaths listed from COVID-19 in Edmonson County, which is an active case number of 62 this week; a slight change from 59 last week, out of 12,000 county residents. Edmonson County is still at the bottom of the eight-county list when it comes to reported deaths from the virus and has consistently had the lowest number of active and total cases, swapping occasionally with Metcalfe County.   Edmonson Voice Staff: The historic Edmonson County Courthouse received a new top yesterday as a newly constructed cupola was installed on the roof of the building. The former structure was beyond repair and removed in September of last year.   A crane prepares to lift the new cupola to the top of the Edmonson Co. courthouse.  Structure is moved into place.  View from The Reed-Dossey House in Brownsville. Photo courtesy of Tony & Sharon Zagaros. The structure was built and installed by Campbellsville Industries, who completed another job in Edmonson County back in late January. The same company installed the very first steeple on Cedar Springs United Baptist Church in the church's 200 year history. The bell that was housed inside the cupola was removed when the old structure was taken down and is being restored. The county plans on putting 146-year old bell on display once the restoration is complete. The new octagon-shaped cupola is fashioned similarly to the previous one and features a copper roof and weathervane. It stands 22-feet tall from the bottom to the weathervane's tip and weighs 600 pounds.  County Continues To Have Lowest COVID Numbers In Barren River Health District  Darren Doyle, story: Although by only a couple, the active COVID-19 cases in Edmonson County dropped again this week, from 61 to 59 on Friday, according to the latest released data from the Barren River District Health Department. In a five-week span dating back to February 4th, Edmonson County's active cases have dropped 47% from the all-time highest number of 127 down to yesterday's count. With the exception of one week that saw a two-case increase, those active cases have steadily dropped since the spike in late January-early February. The BRDHD listed one additional death reported from COVID in the county, bringing the total number to 18. The first cases of COVID-19 in Edmonson County were first reported by the Edmonson Voice on March 30, 2020. Since that time, the BRDHD has reported a total of 903 confirmed cases in the county with 827 recoveries. Edmonson County still has the lowest total cases, the lowest deaths reported, and shares the lowest active COVID numbers with Metcalfe County for COVID-19 in the Barren River District, which has a population of over 200,000. The Barren River District Health Department is currently administering COVID-19 vaccine for individuals in Phase 1C. For phase guidelines, please visit https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/covid19/20210104_Phasesbupdate.pdf. Effective March 8, 2020, the BRDHD will schedule appointments for mid-March through the end of March for individuals in Phase 1C. Due to vaccine supply, vaccine clinics will occur on specific days for each county. Once the appointments are full for March, appointments will be scheduled again in late March for the month of April. To schedule an appointment online: Visit https://www.yellowschedule.com/booking/brdhd__vaccine__site. There is a link available on our website home page at www.barrenriverhealth.org
  James W. Reynolds, (38) of Bee Spring, Edmonson Voice Report: A Bee Spring man was arrested today and faces multiple charges after a multi-county, high-speed pursuit ended with a disabled vehicle and a foot chase. According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, Edmonson County 911 Dispatch received a call around 1:30PM today from a Louisville resident who owns property in the 800 block of Brier Hill Road, who stated his security system actively showed someone on the back porch of the Brier Hill Road residence. An Edmonson County deputy and the District 5 Constable responded, where the constable arrived first and attempted to block the driveway, but the suspect, who fit the description from the caller, was able to maneuver around the constable, according to the Sheriff's Office. The deputy attempted to block the suspect from exiting, but the suspect veered straight for the deputy’s marked patrol car, before driving around and fleeing onto Brier Creek Road, the press release said. The Sheriff's Office said that a high-speed pursuit of the suspect ensued, reaching speeds of nearly 130 mph, ending in Hart County, where an off-duty Hart County Sheriff’s Deputy was able to spike-strip the vehicle, disabling it. The suspect then allegedly fled on foot for approximately 100 yards before being apprehended by an Edmonson County deputy. A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of stolen power tools from the residence of the property owner. The suspect was identified as James W. Reynolds (38) of Bee Spring. Reynolds was arrested and charged with:
Reynolds was lodged in the Hart County Jail and is being held on a $10,000 bond. "Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office greatly appreciates the assistance provided by Constable Charlie Peck, Hart County Sheriff’s Office, and the Kentucky State Police," the press release stated. This article was updated on 3/13/21.  Edmonson Voice Report: Two Brownsville residents face drug trafficking charges after a warrant service attempt last night on KY HWY 70 that resulted in a woman being tased, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. In a press release, the Sheriff's Office said that around 10:30PM on Thursday, March 11th, deputies arrived at the 2700 block of HWY 70 for a warrant service for Toni Brown (40). According to the release, officers detected the strong odor of marijuana from the garage and saw drug paraphernalia and residue while seeing Brown and another individual, identified as Jason Stanka (35), also of Brownsville, inside. The Sheriff's Office said that Jason Stanka attempted to exit the garage and failed to comply with law enforcement’s demands to stop and he had to be physically restrained for officers to place him in handcuffs. According to the Sheriff's Office, a deputy then informed Brown that she had a warrant from a recent Grand Jury Indictment and was under arrest. Brown allegedly became combative towards law enforcement and allegedly failed to comply with their demands, where a deputy then deployed his department-issued taser in order to place Brown in handcuffs. A search of the property yielded multiple forms of drug paraphernalia, multiple bags of suspected methamphetamine, and cash, the Sheriff's Office said.
Brown was served an Indictment Warrant for a charge of Failure to Report Child Dependency Neglect/Abuse. She was also charged with:
Jason Stanka was arrested and charged with:
A previous incorrect spelling of Toni Brown has been corrected since this article was first published. We apologize for the error.  Sheriff: Man Throws Item Out Window Later Discovered To Be Suspected Meth  Willie Ray Lindsey (38), Brownsville. Edmonson Voice Report: A Brownsville man was arrested on meth charges and served criminal summonses for additional charges after a traffic stop, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. A press release from the Sheriff's Office stated that deputies observed a vehicle traveling on Morgantown Road around 7:30PM on Tuesday, March 9th with no visible license plates. As deputies activated their blue lights, they say they witnessed the driver of the vehicle throw an object out the window, which was later discovered to be suspected meth, according to the press release. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Willie Ray Lindsey (38) of Brownsville. The Sheriff's Office also stated that drug paraphernalia with suspected drug residue was also discovered inside the vehicle. Lindsey was arrested and charged with:
Lindsey was also served a Logan County Criminal Summons for Theft of Services, as well as another Criminal Summons out of Edmonson County, stemming from a recent Grand Jury Indictment for Possession of Controlled Substance and Drug Paraphernalia charges. Lindsey was lodged in Hart County Jail. The Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife.  Emotional Homecoming At South Edmonson Today  Second grader Parker Treece embraces his mother, Molly in a surprise homecoming at SEES today. Darren Doyle, story and photos: A second grade student was surprised by his mother today at South Edmonson Elementary when she returned unannounced from a nine-month deployment. Parker Treece, a student in Mrs. Lauren Alford's class, jumped into his mother's arms as she appeared from a hidden compartment in the gym while students, teachers, administration, and staff fought back tears. Well, many fought the tears, but most were unsuccessful. First Army Lieutenant Molly Treece, who had been deployed to Kuwait and stationed at Camp Arifjan, was able to return home, at least for now. With the help of staff members at SEES, everyone managed to pull off the surprise today. Lt. Treece, who was still wiping tears, discussed surprising Parker with the secret homecoming. "He had no idea. Everything changes on a daily basis out there so I didn't want to tell him and get his hopes up. I thought it would be better to just keep it hush-hush, but the school surprised me with all of this because I wasn't expecting such a big to-do, but I greatly appreciate this. I know he did, too because he was very surprised."  Parker Treece with his mom, Molly. SEES Principal Josh Long said it took a little doing to make sure the event was a surprise. Students were brought into the gym for a "special meeting," where Mr. Long recognized some students for various reasons while Lt. Treece was positioned in a hiding place. Long said that Parker had mentioned a couple different times during the school year that he would like to have Mr. Long's autograph, for whatever reason. Just as students thought their program was over, Long asked Parker to stand up so he could accommodate his autograph request, as he signed a piece of paper and gave to him. When asked what Parker thought about the autograph after the celebration had ended, Mr. Long said, "He gave it back to me. He told me he was just being sarcastic." Long said it was a special day at SEES. "I can't even explain it or I'll start crying again," joked Mr. Long. "To see this in person, when a parent comes back from serving in the military, with us having their child all year and taking care of that child here, and their grandparents taking care of them at home, it was just amazing to see this and be part of this today."  Students hold up signs with Lt. Treece, her son Parker, and her sister, Marlee Treece. Lt. Treece, who has served in the army for 11 years thanked everyone that made the day possible. "I haven't seen him in 9 months and he's my only baby," she said. "Nothing can take the place of physically being here and taking care of your son, but I'm above and beyond grateful for everyone putting this together and helping. They took it upon themselves to put it together without me even knowing and I appreciate it." Lt. Treece also was able to reunite with her sister, fourth grader Marlee Treece, who is in Mrs. Heather White's class.  Former KY State Trooper Ben Hubbard, (28) Edmonson Voice Report: A former Kentucky State Trooper has been arrested after his alleged involvement with a possible stolen and illegal firearm in Barren County. Kentucky State Police reported that during an internal investigation on the matter, KSP Trooper Ben Hubbard resigned and was arrested and charged with the following:
Hubbard was lodged in the Barren County detention center. The investigation is ongoing and being led by KSP. No other information has been released at this time. Edmonson Voice Report: The Barren River District Health Department is currently administering COVID-19 vaccine for individuals in Phase 1C, according to a press release from their office today. For phase guidelines, please click here for all the info. This includes anyone age 60 or older, anyone age 16 or older with CDC highest risk C19 risk conditions, and all essential workers. "Effective March 8, 2021, our agency will schedule appointments for mid-March through the end of March for individuals in Phase 1C," the statement read. "Due to vaccine supply, vaccine clinics will occur on specific days for each county. Once the appointments are full for March, we will schedule appointments again in late March for the month of April." To schedule an appointment online: Visit this link here. There is a link available at the BRDHD website home page at www.barrenriverhealth.org.
If you do not have internet access and do not have someone to assist you with the online process, please call the Barren River District Health Department between 8:00am to 4:30pm Monday-Friday at 270-781-8039 and press option 1. The KY COVID-19 Hotline (800) 722-5725 can answer general COVID-19 vaccine questions.  The Alexander Creek Bridge at Oak Hill Road is closed for repairs caused by recent flood damage. Darren Doyle, story and photos: The Edmonson County Road Department is warning drivers that the "Road Closed" signs at the Alexander Creek Bridge on Oak Hill Road are there for a reason, despite the fact that the bridge is no longer underwater. County Road Supervisor Greg Carroll said that flood waters from last week penetrated the bridge between the concrete surface and the asphalt on top, which caused the asphalt to break away from the bridge.  Edmonson County Road employee Jo Jo Montgomery inspects Alexander Creek Bridge after operating an excavator on its surface. "We're having to dig up all the blacktop because of the damage and we'll replace it with gravel as a temporary fix until we can get some pavement. People are still driving around the signs that we have in place. They think they can get across because the water's down, but there's a reason we put those signs up." Carroll said work is expected to continue over the next several days so drivers in the area need to be aware of the bridge closing and seek an alternate route. Darren Doyle, story: Edmonson County is hoping to receive FEMA aid funding for local work handled by the Edmonson County Road Department during both the winter storms in February and the recent flooding that currently has lingering effects in some parts of the county. In today's virtual fiscal court meeting via Zoom, County Road Supervisor Greg Carroll discussed the recent flooding that not only put all four of Edmonson County's low-lying bridges underwater, but also for an extended period of time. Carroll said more than a foot of mud had washed up on one bridge, several road tiles were washed out or damaged throughout the county, and asphalt on some county roads were damaged during the flooding. He said the county will seek funding from FEMA to help cover the costs of the damages that are estimated to be around $500,000 for the flooding alone. He added that overtime pay and other resources used during the winter storm were estimated to be around $80,000. The court also acknowledged a local state of emergency declared by Judge Executive Wil Cannon that was issued during the flooding. There was no current information on when officials will receive word on any projected federal funding for both emergencies. Sheriff's Report: Sheriff Shane Doyle said his office had received part of the new radios provided through emergency government COVID funding and that he was working with Edmonson County 911 Communication Director Pat Prunty in the process. Doyle said the project has gone well so far and that six more cruisers would be getting the new radios installed. He also thanked ECHS for the use of their auto mechanic shop for the installation. He also asked the court to help find a better solution to the problem faced with transporting some prisoners that are supposed to be medically cleared before being accepted at Hart County Jail. Doyle said that the Jailer's protocol, which is guidance from the state jailer's association, in addition to following regulations at the jail, allows them to sometime refuse to transport a prisoner that has been involved in an accident if they have not been medically cleared. Doyle used one example where a man arrested was recently involved in an accident but uninjured and he refused medical treatment. He said that a transportation officer refused to transport the prisoner because he'd not been released from a medical facility. This forced an on-duty deputy to take the prisoner to an out-of-county hospital for evaluation, keeping the deputy unavailable to the county, even though it was unnecessary because the prisoner was uninjured. He said this also forces the county to have to pay overtime to deputies, which isn't in the budget for these scenarios. He also noted that he wasn't blaming the local jailer's office, as they were following the protocol as instructed, the same as his office follows guidance from the Sheriff's Association; however, he asked Judge Cannon and the magistrates to help figure out a better solution that works for Edmonson County than a blanket policy that only works in theory in some places. Jailer Report: Judge Wil Cannon reported that there were currently 17 county inmates housed at Hart County Jail with one on home incarceration. County Clerk Report: County Clerk Kevin Alexander said his office had completed another audit where there were no violations, other than the standard 'delegation of duties,' which occurs due to the small size of the office personnel. He also updated the court on the county's voter redistricting process, which could be hindered due to the delay of the latest census results; however, he said his office will continue to do what they can in the process and will continue to give updates. Parks and Rec: Judge Cannon said the annual Park and Rec Easter Egg Hunt is scheduled to take place this year after the event was cancelled in 2020. Cannon said with school opening back up to four days per week, the county feels that the event can be held safely. According to Parks and Rec Program Director John Kiernan, the event is scheduled for Saturday, April 3, 2021 at 11AM. Stay connected to the VOICE to find out more about this event later in the week. The court also voted to:
The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for March 22, 2021 at 9AM and will be held virtually, via Zoom audio and video.  Darren Doyle, story: More encouraging data was released by the Barren River District Health Department yesterday regarding active COVID-19 cases in Edmonson County, which dropped again. Current data shows 61 active cases in Edmonson County this week, down from 71 last week. Total cases in the county over the last year are now at 896 with 818 recoveries and 17 reported deaths from COVID-19. The county continues to have the lowest number of total cases, deaths, and active cases in the entire Barren River Health District.  Statewide, only 17 out of 120 counties are now considered to be in the red zone and Edmonson County has dropped from red, to orange, to now yellow over the past few months.  EDMONSON COUNTY FISCAL COURT
NOTICE OF REGULAR AUDIO/VIDEO TELECONFERENCE MEETING In accordance with KRS 61.823, KRS 61.826, Executive Order 2020-243, OAG 20-05, 2020 Senate Bill 150 and the March 31 Attorney General Advisory, the Edmonson County Fiscal Court will meet in session at 9:00 a.m. on March 8, 2021 to consider the following Agenda. The meeting will take place via audio teleconference due to the current public health situation with the fiscal court not meeting in person. The public may attend via audio by dialing: 1-312-626-6799, meeting ID 864 4907 2298, password 721472, or by going to the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86449072298?pwd=cDZKc2xiRDc2MXJQc0J2Tm43TE1vZz09 AGENDA 3/08/2021
Wil Cannon EDMONSON COUNTY JUDGE EXECUTIVE Recent Vandalism At Property Raises Questions  Firefighters work to contain a structure fire on Louisville Road early this morning. Darren Doyle, story, photos, and video: Firefighters responded to the report of a structure fire near the old Park City rock quarry location near the 20000 block of Louisville Road this morning around 4AM. A garage building was fully involved when firefighters arrived. The Rocky Hill, Chalybeate, and Brownsville Fire Departments battled the fire for nearly three hours. Edmonson Voice video of a structure fire near the old Park City rock quarry location on Louisville Road. Rocky Hill Fire Chief Tim Compton said there was also an apartment at the building but no one had lived there for some time. He also said there had been recent vandalism at the property where tractors and other farm equipment had been damaged.  A firefighter works at the scene of a structure fire near the 20000 block of Louisville Road.  One example of vandalism recently reported on the property. In addition to the fire departments, Sheriff Shane Doyle also responded to the scene. According to Doyle, an investigation is pending a request from the State Fire Marshal's Office. He said while the recent vandalism could point to foul play in this incident, the State Fire Marshal's Office typically contacts Kentucky State Police for their availability of trained arson investigators. No injuries were reported at the scene.  All 11th Grade Students Must Attend In Person On March 9th Regardless of Staggered Schedule Edmonson Voice Report: Edmonson County High School has announced some schedule changes and important points regarding the upcoming ACT on March 9, 2021. Senate Bill 1, 2017, mandates that all 11th grade students take a college admissions examination. The Kentucky Department of Education’s primary use of the college admissions exam is to measure students' level of readiness for college in core academic content areas. Meeting benchmarks on the ACT is one way students may demonstrate academic readiness in the Transition Readiness indicator of the state's accountability system for schools. The ACT test is scheduled for Tuesday. March 9, 2021. ALL 11th grade students (regardless of assigned school days or learning platform) should be present at Edmonson County High School on March 9th to complete this required assessment. Because of testing protocols that are compliant with KDE’s Safe at School guidelines, only 11th graders will report to ECHS in-person on March 9th. All other ECHS students (9th, 10th, and 12th graders) will have a virtual learning day on March 9th. All other schools will operate on their normal schedule. "We realize this is not an ideal situation, but because of COVID restrictions, it will take twice as many proctors and testing rooms to administer the ACT as it has in the past," said a statement from the Board of Education. " This is the best plan we can find to ensure a safe and secure testing environment for our students." FAQs
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