Green River ferry will be closed Wednesday (June 29) morning for repairs.

It will reopen as soon as the work is complete.

For current ferry information, please call 270-758-2166.

Darren Doyle, story and photos
U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie and staff members stopped by the Edmonson County Extension Office today as part of this summer's "Congress In Your County," a 21-county event that allows folks to speak directly with their Congressman.

"The idea is that lots of people see what's on television, but there's more to what Congress has to offer," said Congressman Guthrie. "We have someone here that can speak on veteran's issues. We have folks from our D.C. office to show people web pages that are run by Congress where you can keep up with current votes and debates, and even have the ability to watch some hearings and proceedings online."

Several folks stopped by the office today to speak with Guthrie and his staff members.

"It's always great to come to Edmonson County," Guthrie said. "We also want people to know that we know there are things that need to be done that aren't getting done because of the political situation in Washington, but we're working. We're really trying to move the country forward."

Emergency Management Director Pat Prunty is urging all Edmonson County residents to enroll in a completely free storm alert system called The CodeRED Weather Warning severe weather alert system.

The system delivers advanced warning of severe weather as soon as a bulletin is issued by the National Weather Service. The system delivers voice calls, text messages and emails to subscribed users within the direct path of the storm. Messages provide residents extra time to prepare that could save lives. Types of alerts include tornado warnings, severe thunderstorm warnings, flash flood warnings, tsunami warnings and winter storm warnings.

Prunty said he's seen calls take place faster than the actual emergency call from the NWS weather alerts at dispatch.

​CodeRED Weather Warning is automated and requires no human intervention. Notifications are delivered so quickly they often arrive prior to any other public notifications, including television or weather radio broadcasts. CodeRED Weather Warning technology has been highlighted on national media outlets for its effectiveness in early alerting.

"We only have about 300 residents signed up out of approximately 4500 landlines in the county," Prunty said. "The county pays for this valuable service, so it's free to the public. You can also receive calls on your cell phones, too, as well as text messages."

It's easy to sign up. Just click on the link below and you'll be directed to the CodeRED sight where you can fill out a short form and customize the types of alerts you'd like to receive. 

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR CODE-RED WEATHER ALERTS FOR FREE.
​

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
The fiscal court voted to approve the application of a Homeland Security Grant from Emergency Management in the amount $29,380 for three new radio consoles for EC dispatch.

EM Director Pat Prunty said the current radio consoles are working and are good units but need some serious updating.

The consoles that are now in use look more like  1985 Texas Instruments home computers, and Prunty said new units would be modernized and computer based. Two radios are currently in use and the grant will hopefully fund three new ones, or close to it.

"They're actually not as old as they look," he said jokingly. "They're pretty solid, but just like everything else, we have need to stay updated with technology. Hopefully this grant will take care of this project."

Darren Doyle, story and photo
The fiscal court received a final Invoice from Steve Vanmeter Construction for the sidewalk material and labor as well as the excavation and other related construction work for the Veterans Memorial Wall of the amount of $8,422.

When the project was first put in play by Judge Wil Cannon, the fiscal court agreed to pay for some of the work including the electric service and related material needed for proper lighting on the memorial and the surrounding area. Since then, the material has instead been donated by CED in Bowling Green and the labor was donated by Charles Langdon. This allowed county funds to become available for other areas of the project.

Mark Woosley made the motion for the fiscal court to pay the remaining balance so far, seconded by Edd Rich, which will allow the DAV to use their funds to supply the bricks which are actually paid for by brick purchasers. Maurita Miller, head of the DAV Auxiliary,  gave a heartfelt thanks to the court. Judge Cannon thanked Mrs. Miller for her dedication and hard work to oversee the project that everyone is proud to see on the courthouse square.

According to Miller, there is still more work to do in order to fully complete the project, of which she and others remain busy with the planning and preparation.

Editor's Note: We've heard nothing but good things here at the Edmonson Voice about the memorial and applaud the officials, laborers, volunteers, DAV and Auxiliary members, donors, brick purchasers, and of course, our wonderful Edmonson County veterans. The memorial is something that will be respected and cherished for generations and we're proud of everything it stands for. 

​Scott Waste agreed to come back on the July 11 fiscal court meeting to discuss further and the court voted to extend the current contract by 60 days until the details are worked out. The extension will end on August 30th. Rates on properties with more than one can, elderly rates, and a one year contract instead of three years are items that will be up for discussion.

One resident in attendance said better methods should be used for Scott Waste to inform the public of delayed routes and pick ups during inclement weather. Judge Cannon encouraged Scott Waste to contact the Edmonson Voice for quick announcements regarding their routes.

Scott said they would utilize the modern media company, but also asked for people to keep their telephone numbers updated so that in the event of inclement weather customers can be notified by phone if weekly pick up is delayed.

Road Report
Road Foreman Ray Page, who was not present, sent a written report that described various mowing and paving jobs throughout the county and that several pieces of equipment had broken down. One was a truck with a load of blacktop in the bed. He reported that the entire load of blacktop was lost.

Sheriff Report
Sheriff Shane Doyle reported on the attempted break in and burglary at the Chris Davis property. He also talked about the woes his office currently has with mechanical troubles. He said he has one car wrecked, a back up car broken down, and another deputy's car in the shop.  "I'm not trying to fuss at the fiscal court, but when we're having to buy worn out cars to start with, it's going to cause us to have to spend money to fix them," he said.

Parks and Rec Administrator Greg Hudson reported on a successful Freedom Fest last Friday. He said everything worked very well, lots of folks attended, and the fireworks were great. He thanked all the emergency personnel for coming out in an attempt to make the public more aware of their services.

He also gave a huge thank you to the sponsors involved: SERVPRO, Bank of EC, Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, and Scott Waste, who sponsored the fireworks, and Brownsville Insurance, Judge Wil Cannon, and a private citizen for sponsoring the band.  "We used everything on the park that was available," he said. He also plugged the upcoming concerts in the park series.

A report sent by Chamber and Tourism Director Rhonda Clemmons thanked everyone for a successful cookout on the square, and offered a huge thanks to SERVPRO who provided the grill and sponsored the event. She said the Tourism Commission is currently working on a State Fair booth and wil have a 16 page promotional pamphlet to hand out to fair goers.

The court also declined donation of property from Robert Vincent on Nolin Dam Rd, per recommendation of Judge Cannon. "Would cost taxpayers more to maintain it than it would be what property is worth." The property was described as a "small grown up hillside around half an acre." Cannon said the offer from Mr. Vincent was very generous and the court was grateful, however it would be better suited being sold to an adjacent property owner.  
​
In other fiscal court news, the court agreed to:

• ​Approve Application of a Homeland Security Grant from Emergency Management in the amount $29,380 for three new radio consoles for EC dispatch.
• Form a committee for River Birch Loop, located in Lake Forest Subdivision, to research adopting the loop into the county road system.
• Form committee to research adopting Joseph Court in subdivision owned by Joe Davis, off Sulfur Hollow Rd. 

The County Clerk's Office reported storm damage at the office resulting in a damaged computer that affected their website operation. The office will also be closed this Saturday for July 4th weekend, as well as Monday, July 4.​

The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 11th, 2016 at 9am.

After responding to the address on Arthur Road, they found Lee hiding in a wooded area but he reportedly ran again, and another foot pursuit began. Officials said after Lee failed to follow officer's commands to stop, he was tasered by KSP, subdued, and arrested.

Lee was charged with Burglary 3rd degree, Feeing/Evading first degree (on foot), five counts of Wanton endangerment of police officer 1st degree, and resisting arrest. Officials said more charges are pending, waiting for a Grand Jury.

Lee was transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail. Bond or bail information was not immediately available.

After an amazing shoot at the World Archery Championship in Myrtle Beach, SC, the Edmonson County Wildcat Archery Team finished 39th out of around 80 teams. It's important to note that while the team competed against 79 others, there are hundreds of teams, possibly more, that didn't qualify for the World Meet.

While some would simply call the ranking "middle of the pack," finishing 39th in the world is something Head Coach Chris Shelton said he was "ecstatic" to have experienced with this team.  

"The whole experience was amazing for all of us," Shelton said. "It reminds me of when I played high school baseball years ago. We'd go on theses long Florida trips to play in tournaments. The long trips were terrible, but the experience was awesome and still remembered today. That's what we did this weekend, was create an awesome experience, and I'm so happy for these kids." 

While several kids shot personal bests or near best, Coach Shelton said the kids rose to the occasion and handled the pressure well. Here is a list of EC's top ten finishers and their grades:

1. Nate Wilson (11)
2. Jillian Kenney (11)
3. Bailey Burba (11)
4. Hunter Ashley (9)
5. Seth Shelton (8)
6. Jarrod Sanders (9)
7. Brandon Vincent (11)
8. Brianna Webb (10)
9. Beau Kelley (11)
10. Andrew Embry (9)

​Shelton said it was also great for the opportunity for some to see the ocean for the first time. "Several kids had never seen the ocean, including some parents. This whole experience has been amazing and I'm so proud of everyone."

He also stressed the importance of the amazing support that helped them make the trip. "We simply couldn't have done this without all the support. The community stepped up and helped us make this happen, and for that, we're so grateful. This has been something that these kids will never forget."

Darren Doyle, story and photos
A big community weekend continued today as a large crowd visited the courthouse square at the annual Chamber of Commerce Cookout.

Free hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, and ice cold drinks were served to attendees as they enjoyed live music from the band "BlackGold." Kids had loads of fun as the 4-H Pony Express Club offered free horse rides to anyone looking to hop into the saddle.

"The crowd has been great today," said Chamber Board Member Maegan Hance of SERVPRO during the event. "You know, I think we had just as large of a crowd last year, but there's more activity this year. People are moving around, having a great time. The kids love the horse rides and the live music has been great, too."

Other Chamber and community members kept the grill busy while other volunteers helped serve food and drinks. SERVPRO sponsored the food and supplied the grill.

"We had a good steady crowd all day today," said Chamber Director Rhonda Clemmons. "Everyone seems to be having a great time," she said while at the event.

The free cookout followed a successful Freedom Fest on Friday night, also free, where a huge crowd enjoyed a dazzling fireworks show. 

Darren Doyle, story and photos
Hundreds filled Chalybeate Park Friday night to get a glimpse of an impressive fireworks show at Freedom Fest 2016, while taking advantage of many other features of the park. 

The event kicked off at 4pm with local emergency personnel on hand with police cruisers, fire trucks, ambulances, and other vehicles. Little League youngsters gathered together to accept their trophies and team photos which was followed by the band "Double Nothin" as they played classic country and rock tunes.

"We couldn't have asked for a better day for the event," said Park Administrator Greg Hudson. "People took advantage of all we had to offer, including volleyball, basketball, and corn hole games."

Of course, the main reason people attended was the annual fireworks display, sponsored by Parks & Rec, Bank of Edmonson County, and the Edmonson County Lions Club. The show rivals other quality firework festivals and is something locals appreciate every year.

"As always, the fireworks show was outstanding," added Hudson. "Tons of work went into this year's event and we'd like to thank our emergency personnel for allowing a close up look at their operations. Judge Cannon was also a huge help, shuttling people to and from the parking area."

It's also important to note that the festival simply could not have taken place without the amazing unselfish labor from Administrator Hudson and Parks Director A.B. Webb. The event has been in the works for weeks, and both Hudson and Webb worked around the clock to make sure things came together. The generous gifts from the fireworks sponsors is something we all should remember. Simply put, without these guys' labor and the financial support from the sponsors, there would be no Freedom Fest. Parks and Rec puts on the event simply to give back to the community and to provide a fun, safe event for all to enjoy...for free. The Edmonson Voice salutes our Parks & Rec program, the guys that tirelessly run it, and the wonderful sponsors of the event. Thank you.

"We hope everyone enjoyed themselves and will come out for Concerts in the Park planned for July, August, and September," said Hudson. "Please visit our website to stay updated on all things Parks & Rec."

Darren Doyle, story
When evil terrorist groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda are mentioned, you don't expect to hear "Edmonson County residents" in the same sentence, however, one local family recently experienced something that hits close to home.

Terry and Sherry Blanton, residents in the Otter Gap community, recently received a phone call from a Louisville Metro Police Department detective, who was also a member of the State Terrorism Task Force.

Mr. Blanton said the detective, whose name is being withheld, advised them that one of the family's personal email addresses had shown up on what was called "an Al-Qaeda hit list." This apparently meant that the task force had reason to believe that something connected to the terrorist group had attempted to hack, use, or contact the email address.

"The detective told us to just go about our normal lives but to be more aware of our surroundings," said Blanton. He also said the detective advised them to discontinue the use of the email address, which he said has been deleted.

Blanton said at first, he wasn't sure if it was a prank or some sort of scam attempt, but he felt like the call was legitimate as the caller didn't ask for any personal information, nor seemed to benefit in any way from the phone call other than to help.

​We contacted Louisville Metro PD and requested to speak to the detective that Blanton said had called and we were forwarded to his voicemail. We received a call the next day from the detective who confirmed that he made the call, but said an official statement had to come from the Media Relations Office and asked us not to publish his name, due to the sensitive nature of his position.

A Louisville Media Relations Officer, Sgt. Phil Russell called our office today and advised us that the KY Joint Terrorism Task Force, a division of the FBI, would give us a statement on the matter. We received an email from the Louisville FBI Office earlier today.

"The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force is handling the matter. Along with our local partners, the JTTF takes seriously any terrorism or criminal matter," said Special Agent David Habich, a spokesman for the FBI Office in Louisville. "At this time there is no information indicating an imminent threat from this ISIL-related issue to the persons contacted. The JTTF will continue to warn citizens accordingly out of an abundance of caution."

Mr. Blanton said an FBI Agent visited their home in person today, Friday, June 24th, to confirm everything that had been discussed so far.

So what does this mean, exactly? For the Blantons and the rest of Edmonson County, hopefully, nothing. However; the fact that an email address from someone in Edmonson County in fact crossed paths with a known association of Al-Qaeda is a bit unnerving to say the least.

"I know it sounds crazy, but with the way things are in the world today..." Blanton added. "It's a creepy feeling."

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
On Tuesday, House Bill 422, sponsored by Representative Michael Meredith, R-Brownsville, was signed into law by Governor Matt Bevin. HB 422 will take steps toward streamlining local government codes by providing more clarity and protecting property owners, including those with security interests.
 
“House Bill 422 provides the transparency of government regulations that Kentuckians want, and deserve,” said Rep. Meredith, who represents Edmonson and Warren County. “HB 422 was designed to clarify local government code enforcement while ensuring the protection of property owners and other invested individuals. As representatives, it is our responsibility to produce legislation that seeks to eliminate any existing ambiguity and protect our constituents.”

​Representatives from the Kentucky League of Cities and Kentucky Bankers Association were present at the official bill signing as well as the bill’s co-sponsor, Representative Adam Koenig, R-Erlanger.
 
“I want to thank everybody who was a part of this bipartisan effort and the citizens of the 19th House District for the opportunity to pass good legislation and to represent them,” added Meredith.
 
HB 422 will become law on July 15, 2016.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
Only one name was released on the Tuesday, June 21, 2016 Edmonson District Court docket, which was former Edmonson County Animal Shelter Director Kimberly Carroll.

She pleaded not guilty to "cruelty to animals, second degree." A pre-trial conference has been scheduled for July 19, 2016 at 9am. 

Carroll was cited with the animal cruelty charge on June 3, 2016 when the Kentucky State Police shut down the facility that served four counties. All animals on the property were relocated to other area shelters with the exception of a select few, that according to reports were euthanized. Her husband, Greg was not charged in the incident.

​The Edmonson County Fiscal Court had contracted animal control and shelter services with Carroll and her husband, Greg until Monday, June 13, when the fiscal court voted to dissolve the contract on grounds that the Carroll's and their facility failed to fulfill the requirements of the contract. 

Judge Executive Wil Cannon has stated more than once that the Carroll's were the only facility to bid on the state mandated service. Cannon has also stated that since the county contracted the service to an outside private organization, the county had no authority or enforcement as to how the facility was run. 

He did, however, admit that more periodic checks should have been conducted by the fiscal court in order to see that all the contract requirements were being properly met.

So far, Mrs. Carroll and her attorney have yet to comment, but have agreed to give a statement to the Edmonson Voice at a later date.

The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office was first to respond to the June 3rd complaint, but immediately turned the case over to KSP due to a county office/contract conflict of interest. A special prosecutor has been appointed to handle the case from this point forward in order to eliminate another conflict of interest with the Carroll's and the Edmonson County Attorney.

​
Official reports said that Pate, the operator of the Infiniti, was transported to the Medical Center at Bowling Green by Edmonson EMS for neck and back pain.

Hardin, the operator of the Caravan, was reported to have refused medical treatment along with her four children that were in the car. The Caravan only showed minor damage to the front of the vehicle. Hardin was also issued a citation  of failure of owner to maintain required insurance, first offense.

The wreck was the sixth accident with injuries within a one week period in Edmonson County.

​"Hornback has been known to run in the past and has a history of burglary in and around the lake area," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "He is considered armed and dangerous."

Doyle urges anyone who routinely walks or rides around the lake area to be aware at all times.

"We strongly encourage those who have concealed weapons permits to carry their firearms if proficient with them," Doyle added.

Darren Doyle, story and photo
Thousands look forward to the annual Parks and Rec fireworks and little league awards night each year, which grows bigger every summer and is now known as Freedom Fest.

Greg Hudson, Parks and Rec Program Director, and A.B. Webb, Facility Manager, have spent months planning and preparing for this year's event which is scheduled for this Friday and is expected to be the biggest to date.

That's betting on good weather, of course, which is always a factor. As of now, the forecast is calling mostly clear skies, but we're still a few days away.

Hudson said that the parking will be structured a bit differently this year for a few different reasons. There will be no parking from the gated area and beyond. The gate is positioned at the drive to turn left into the ball fields and concession area.

"The first reason for this is to accommodate "Community Pride Day," which is an emergency personnel appreciation that will be included in this year's festival," said Hudson. County organizations scheduled to be set up in the lower parking lot beyond the horseshoe pits are local law enforcement, fire departments, EMS, Corps of Engineers, U.S. Park Rangers, and an Air Evac helicopter.

​Hudson said it will be the perfect time for families and kids to meet our local emergency workers, learn about their jobs, and take a closer look at their vehicles and equipment. The lower parking lot will be filled with these organizations.

"The second reason is for there to be more efficient use of the park's property and to have more order, which will provide a safer environment.  Another reason is for vehicles to keep a safe distance from the firework launch area and to provide ample room for emergency vehicles on scene to exit safely," he added.

Parking will be available in the following areas:

• Upper lot near the barn (now striped off)
• Marked areas on each side of the entrance drive
• Areas beyond the Kinser Field outfield fence (attendants will be available to help park vehicles)
• South Edmonson Elementary Parking Lot

Hudson said although less area will be used for this year's parking, the amount of parking spaces should remain close to the same because of a more efficient use of the space.

Little League awards are scheduled to begin at 6pm and will take place under the horseshoe shelter with live music from "Double Nothin" beginning immediately afterwards.

The largely anticipated fireworks show will begin at dusk which is usually around 9pm and is sponsored by Parks and Rec, Bank of Edmonson County, and the Edmonson County Lions Club.

Any questions can be directed to Parks and Rec at 270-597-9103 or via email at [email protected].

The event is 100% free to the public. Concessions will be available. Volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts will be open and corn hole games will be set up as well.

To all the dads and father figures out there, we hope you have a great day. If you still have the opportunity to call, text, message, or visit your dad, we encourage you to do so. 

​From all of us here at the Edmonson Voice, HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

​The Edmonson County Board of Education met Monday, June 13, 2016.  Superintendent Patrick Waddell recognized the following staff members who retired at the end of the 2015-2016 school year.

Left to right - Karen Tillman, Mechille Gravil, Lecia Priddy, Danzel Clemmons, Bonnie Vincent, Stella Newton, Billie Jo Rich, Glenda Lashley and Superintendent Patrick Waddell.

Retirees not present were;  Susan Vincent, Diana Hilliard, Landon Salings, Truly Jaggers, Sue Logan, Donna Meredith, Wanda Kinser, Penny Highbaugh

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
A jury returned a guilty verdict Wednesday, June 15, 2016 for a Roundhill man on one count of Cruelty To Animals 2nd Degree from an arrest back in August of 2015.

The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, who conducted the investigation, arrested Brent Basham, 42, of E.G. Nash Road on August 4, 2015 after an anonymous tip led to the gruesome discovery of a horse suffering from a decayed leg. The horse had to be euthanized by a local veterinarian.

​Basham pleaded not guilty in district court on August 11, 2015 but his case was automatically declared a mistrial on March 7th of this year due to what the prosecution called a "procedural error by the defense" and was rescheduled.

The prosecution recommended the maximum penalty for the defendant, which was 12 months in jail and a $500 fine. After deliberating approximately 30 minutes, the jury returned a sentence of guilty, but no jail time and a $500 fine.

"While we appreciate the jury's guilty verdict, it's a bit disheartening that the defendant will receive no jail time," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "To put so much time and manpower into such a difficult case involving an animal that had to be euthanized by a veterinarian at the county's expense simply because it had been neglected, it's frustrating to see only a $500 fine."

Mark Yurchisin, from the law office of Gary S. Logsdon and Associates, represented Basham and said he was also disappointed in the verdict.

"We feel like there should've been a full acquittal," he said. "We presented a good case. As far as the sentence goes, it's more fair than a year in jail, but not what we were looking for, as our client was innocent."

Yurchisin said the defense took issue with some of the evidence and is currently in talks with the client regarding an appeal. 

The Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce has announced the Annual Cookout On The Square will be held Saturday, June 25, 2016. The event held each year in Brownsville is a family fun event that is free to the public. 

​We welcome all Chamber members but we also welcome the public” said Rhonda Clemmons, Chamber Director. “It's our day to give back to our community in food, fun and fellowship."

​The event’s major sponsor is SERVPRO of Butler, Hopkins, Ohio, Muhlenberg, and Edmonson Counties. They help provide free hot dogs, hamburgers and door prizes. Members of the Board of Directors will gear up in aprons and spatulas to “man the grill” once again this year.
 
The Chamber of Commerce will also welcome hometown favorite “Blackgold” for live music. Free children's activities will also be available for enjoyment, including free horse and pony rides, also sponsored by SERVPRO. “We encourage everyone to bring a lawn chair,” Clemmons said.

​The event is held from 11 am to 1 pm.

Darren Doyle, story and photos
Emergency personnel were dispatched to the Genesis Health Care/Edmonson Center nursing home around 1AM on Thursday morning when smoke began to fill the nurses' station.

Facility Administrator Chris Swihart said that a rooftop air conditioner unit malfunctioned and as a result, a portion of the facility was filled with smoke.

Stan Tillman, Assistant Chief for the Brownsville Fire Department, said Admin. Swihart climbed on top of the building with emergency workers and saw where the AC unit's motor had burned itself out. The nurses' station was located directly below the area.

"We've checked all the other air units to make sure there are no issues and we've ventilated the building to remove all the smoke. Luckily, everything is ok," Stillman said.

Admin. Swihart said that at no time were the residents in danger and the smoke was kept away from their rooms. "The damaged unit had nothing to do with individual rooms," he said. "It was isolated to another part of the building." 

The scene was cleared around 2AM. Responding were the Brownsville, Kyrock, and Chalybeate Fire Departments, Edmonson County Emergency Management, and Edmonson EMS.

"We want to thank all our local emergency workers for all their help," Swihart added.

Darren Doyle, story and photo
It was an unlucky event for one Grayson County man recently when he tried to avoid a rear-end collision by maneuvering around an SUV on HWY 259N.

Turns out that the SUV was an Edmonson County Sheriff's patrol vehicle being driven by Deputy Wally Ritter. Dep. Ritter had been heading north when he slowed down to turn right in to a driveway. 

According to KSP, William Hodge, 31, of Clarkson didn't notice Ritter's vehicle and tried to avoid the vehicle by swerving to the right side the road way, but ended up side-swiping the SUV, causing anywhere from $3K to $4,000 worth of damage.    

Ritter said he was milliseconds from making the turn, which could've had disastrous results in a possible t-bone collision. No one was hurt, but law enforcement is urging everyone to pay closer attention to their surroundings in the wake of several accidents over the past week, some that were very serious.

"I'm not sure what it is," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "This was just a fender-bender, but it could have been very serious. People need to wake up, slow down, put their phones down and just concentrate on driving. We've had several residents seriously hurt over the past week, including some teenagers and small kids."

While Doyle said none of the recent accidents were said to have definitely been caused by distracted driving, he mentioned that there are more ways for drivers to be distracted today than ever before.

Kentucky State Police Information Officer B.J. Eaton also encouraged all drivers to give 100% of their attention to their driving while on the highways.  "It's an awesome responsibility to drive on the roadway and the safety of everyone on Kentucky roadways depends a lot on folks paying complete attention while doing so," he said.

Trooper Eaton also added that a huge number of collisions are attributed to distracted driving and in-attention. "With that being said, that means several collisions could possibly be avoided if we all committed to giving our driving our complete attention and eliminate any and all distractions."

Sheriff Doyle said that the department SUV can easily be repaired, and that wasn't the issue. He said the point is for drivers to concentrate on the road. "Sometimes accidents just happen for whatever reason, but other times they can be prevented with a little care. Taking your eyes off the road for a split second can have devastating effects. We're just asking everyone to use a little more caution," he said. ​

Edmonson Staff Report
Traffic safety checkpoints can sometimes be inconvenient, especially to drivers that are in a hurry to reach their destinations. Some folks even consider them invasive. There were several little league goers that were aggravated at the recent checkpoints near the HWY 70 county park last week, but according to Sheriff Shane Doyle, what caused the aggravation may have saved Edmonson County lives.

"We don't conduct the checkpoints to hassle drivers or to look for a reason to write tickets," he said. "We do them to help get rid of drugs, find those with outstanding warrants, and help stop drinking and driving."

He said during an eight hour period, there were eight arrests made on 23 different charges. Among those were:

• three outstanding arrest warrants
• one DUI
• six open alcohol container charges
• two possession of meth charges
• one possession of marijuana
• two possession of drug paraphernalia
• one charge of possession of controlled substance
• one charge of possession of legend drug
• five charges of public intoxication

Everyone arrested was from out of town, either traveling to, from, or through the park.

"It's the kickoff of summer and the traveling and camping season for the National Park and surrounding areas," Doyle said. "We just want everyone to know we plan on having a heavy presence during this season. It's all about keeping our families and kids safe."

The checkpoints are conducted by the sheriff's office, Brownsville Police, and KSP. Oft times all agencies work together at one checkpoint.