Darren Doyle, story and photos
Blistering temperatures and high humidity didn't seem to keep very many away from the 9th Annual Cram The Cruiser school supply drive today in Brownsville, as today's event set an all-time record of over $1300 in cash in addition to the school supplies.

"Part of the money will be used locally to purchase necessary items for our centers," said Jamie Carnes, Edmonson County Supervisor of Federal and State Programs. "The rest will be sent to "Stuff The Bus" and we'll get double that back later, maybe even triple on some things."

Family Resource Center Coordinator Lisa Sanders said the purpose of the event is to replenish school supplies that are needed each school day for Edmonson County students. "We make sure these supplies go to absolutely anyone who needs them, from a pencil or notebook, to fully stocked backpacks. We serve all the students of Edmonson County."

She said some students aren't able to purchase any supplies for the start of the school year but the Family Resource and Youth Service Centers can supply those needs, thanks to Cram the Cruiser. "These donations keep us from having to spend money in an already tight budget and should last for the entire year," she said.

Community Education Director Lisa Whobery was excited to see that last year's total of $700 had already been passed up by lunch time. "We rocked it out today," she said. "And it's extremely important for the people of Edmonson County to know that yes, we're taking all this to Stuff the Bus, but when we come back to get all of our portion, it will be doubled, and some of it tripled."

Whobery discussed the great need that some local students have. "It's so hard when you see some kids that don't have as much as others. We want everyone to have a level playing ground, so this helps us with that and it touches my heart," she said.

KSP Public Affairs Officer B.J. Eaton who helped with the event, along with the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office and Brownsville Police, said it's all about finding ways to help kids. "There are Edmonson County kids that show up to school and they don't have everything they need. Cram the Cruiser allows those kids to have those things and that's what it's all about."

Trooper Eaton also noted that KSP and other law enforcement agencies enjoy events like Cram the Cruiser because it allows kids to see the fun and friendly side of law enforcement, something that many people say is a must in today's times. "Sometimes kids see officers in a negative or intimidating way and this lets them see us in a positive light. They can come out here and joke around with us, we show them our cars, and just have a good time with everyone. It's an added bonus to an event like this."  

The Family Resource and Youth Service Centers wish to thank:

• Kentucky State Police
• Edmonson County Sheriff's Office
• Brownsville Police
• Family Dollar
• Minit Mart of Brownsville
• D93, The Tony Rose Morning Show and Stuff The Bus '16
• Bank of Edmonson County
• Edmonson EMS
• Coca Cola
• All the donors that help support Edmonson County students

Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, July 12, 2016. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding. 

Barbara Jean Hardin, Speeding 20mph over limit. Amended to No Insurance-1st. Continue in four weeks, may participate in insurance monitoring program.

Christopher J Bush, No/expired KY registration receipt. No/expired registration plates. Failure to notify address change to dept. of transportation. Proof shown on all counts, all counts dismissed.

Linda I Wolfe, Operating vehicle with expired operator's license. Proof shown, dismissed.

Nathan T Clark, Speeding 25mph over limit. Failed to appear. Notice sent to Dept. of transportation.

Bryon E Decker, No/expired registration plates, proof shown, dismissed. No/expired KY registration receipt, proof shown, dismissed. Obstructed vision and/or windshield, continue in two weeks.

Victor Cole Neal, Leaving scene of accident/Failure to render aid or assistance. Failure to report traffic accident, criminal mischief-2nd degree. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial conference 7/26/16.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
Edmonson County Clerk Kevin Alexander says the county election board is in the final stages with the State Board of Elections that are necessary to re-open the Wingfiled voting precinct, which will be located at the Wingfield Fire Department.

Alexander said that Kim Morrow from the BRADD office recently redrew the precinct map at the direction of the Edmonson County Election Board , which included the new Wingfield precinct.

"I don't see any issues with what's been done so far and don't see any reason why the state board won't approve the new precinct," said Clerk Alexander.

He also estimated that the final approval should come no later than the end of August, which would allow Wingfield residents to be able to vote in their own community for the upcoming general election in November.

"We had some Wingfield residents driving up to 12 miles one way to South Edmonson to vote," Alexander said. "Of course, it's a nice facility, but it's also the largest voting district in the county. Folks were driving out of their way to stand in a long line to vote, then drive up to 12 miles back. It's frustrating to voters and we need to do all we can to see that our residents have the best and most convenient opportunities to vote."

If approved, the new voting precinct will be divided at Alexander Creek Road. If you once voted at Wingfield, but were moved to Chalybeate in 2014, you should be able to return there again once approved. You can also call the County Clerk's Office with any questions at 270-597-2624.

Edmonson Voice Staff
Paul Blanton, photo
The Green River Ferry was closed Wednesday, July 13, 2016 due to the need of a repair, according to MCNP Public Information Officer Vickie Carson.

A needed part could arrive as soon as Thursday but no official word was given as to when the ferry would be re-opened. 

The Edmonson County Clerk's Office has announced that the candidate filing deadline for Edmonson County School Board positions and Brownsville City Council seats is August 9, 2016 at 4pm. 

The only filings so far are Jerry Meredith, who is seeking re-election as Brownsville City Mayor, and Tonya Jones, who is seeking re-election in District 2 on the Edmonson County Board of Education.

The general election date is Tuesday, November 8, 2016.

by Caleb Renfro, ECHS FFA Reporter
Eight members of the Edmonson County FFA Chapter attended the Kentucky FFA State Convention in Lexington, June 7-9,2016.

The chapter was awarded the Gold Emblem rating, which is based on the number and quality of activities conducted throughout the year.

Madison Alexander and Maranda Garrett served as chapter delegates at the convention.

Madison Alexander, Emily Davidson, Maranda Garrett, Emery Hunt, Mattie Cowles, Caleb Renfro, and Nate Wilson each received the Kentucky FFA State Degree.

Mattie Cowles competed in the State Floral Impromptu contest.
Caleb Renfro competed in the State Ag Mechanics Impromptu contest, as well as the Swine Entrepreneurship SAE. 
Nate Wilson competed in the State FFA A.I.C. competition.

Madison Alexander competed in the Nursery Production Proficiency contest.
Eli Lamastus competed in the Agriscience Research Proficiency contest.
Aaron Decker competed in the Poultry Production Proficiency contest, and he also competed for a State FFA office.

Laura Beth Wilson, Savannah Lindsey, and Brianna Webb served in the Courtesy Court.

Over 2,500 members attended the Kentucky FFA State Convention.
​
Chapter advisers are Mr. Bruce Lindsey and Mr. Randy Graham.

Darren Doyle, story and photo
The Edmonson County Fiscal Court voted today to sign a temporary agreement with the Bowling Green/Warren County Humane Society Animal Shelter through December 31 of this year at a rate of $1250 per month.

The contract would be for the housing of dogs only, and would not include a dog warden or animal control officer. Judge Cannon said that the Humane Society had been very proactive with trying to help Edmonson County since the closure of the shelter owned by Kim Carroll on June 3, 2016.

Edmonson County's previously dissolved animal shelter contract was in the amount of $30K per year. The plan now is to pay BG/WC Humane Society's animal shelter $15K per year for shelter services only and contract someone locally for another $15K per year to be the animal control agent.

"We need to sign an agreement through December to see if the price is going to work with the Humane Society after we see how many county dogs have been sheltered," said Judge Cannon. "There's no way of estimating that right now."

A phone call to the Bowling Green/Warren County Humane Society was not immediately returned.

Cannon said that the agreement would also require the shelter to follow all laws, keep very detailed records, insurance for employees, and contain language that would relieve the county from liability. The agreement would be renegotiated in December.

Cannon also said that the court is currently researching requirements for a dog warden, although state law has labeled the position as an "animal control officer." Cannon said Edmonson County will name the position either "dog warden" or "Dog control personnel" because the person will only be responsible for the pick up of dogs and no other animals, and that the term "officer" suggests law enforcement capabilities, in which the position will not have.

The Judge also read a list of requirements that have been assembled so far that include but are not limited to: Compassion for animals, industry standard transportation for dogs, exercising self control when dealing with public, euthanasia qualifications, a tax identification number, and other specific requirements to be finalized.

According to Cannon, there are currently two different people interested in the job. The court agreed to hold a private special meeting for the purpose of filling the position on July 25, 2016 at 4pm. A night fiscal court meeting is scheduled for 6pm on the same day.

Darren Doyle, story and photo
Scott Waste will be the sole provider for trash pick up services in Edmonson County for the next three years, per an automatic renewal in the contract that took place on July 1, 2016. The renewal came as a surprise to the Edmonson County Fiscal Court, although it did not appear to be opposed by any member.

According to the contract, which has been in place for at least the past 8 years, the exclusive agreement between Scott Waste and Edmonson County Fiscal Court states that the contract renews automatically every three years unless one or more of the parties involved choose to stop the automatic renewal to discuss, make provisions, or discontinue. No member of the court was aware of the automatic renewal, although there are four current magistrates that served three years ago, when the last agreement renewed.

The discussion today was focused on a 3% increase that also automatically took place on July 1, as per language in the contract, however, according to County Attorney J.B. Hines, the basis of the 3% increase is incorrect.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report, courtesy WKU Dept. of Agriculture
WKU’s Department of Agriculture hosted 23 students at the ASSET (Agriculture Students Striving for Effective Tomorrows) Conference June 12-16, 2016, three of which were local students.

The five-day conference is designed for students who have completed their junior year of high school and are interested in attending college and studying agriculture.  The conference focused on activities that consist of leadership, communication and social development; making the most of a college experience; and created awareness of the opportunities within the agriculture industry. 

Activities included visiting Diamond C Produce, touring the WKU Farm, learning problem-solving skills at the WKU Challenge Course, and participating in labs which covered topics including animal science, beekeeping, floral design and electricity.

ASSET participants from the Edmonson County area included:  Emery Hunt from Brownsville, Slaton Kelley, also from Brownsville, and  Matthew O’Bryan from Roundhill.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office has reported several arrests and citations that were made and issued during the recent holiday traffic safety checkpoints.

The checkpoints, which have gotten positive feedback from the public, are led by the sheriff's office in conjunction with all local law enforcement agencies.

The recent locations resulted in five different DUI arrests along with 40 traffic and criminal citations, ranging from seat belt and insurance violations to driving with suspended licenses, drug possession charges, open alcohol containers, and marijuana charges.

"We announce and hold these checkpoints for different reasons," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "We announce them so the public is aware and to deter impaired driving. We don't do these just to catch people, we do them to try to prevent impaired driving and criminal activity. Our goal isn't to make arrests and write tickets, it's to get folks to follow the law and drive safely."

Along with the Sheriff's office, the Brownsville City Police, KY State Police, and Mammoth Cave National Park Rangers conducted the checkpoints and were assisted by the District Two Constable.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Nolin Lake has issued a statement regarding closings at the lake. The statement said:
​
"Nolin River Lake is rising and will continue to rise for several days.  It is anticipated that we will reach an elevation of approximately 525' MSL by Sunday morning.  Lake levels this high have resulted in the closure of Wax Campground on Saturday at 12:00 Noon.  There are also several sites at Dog Creek Campground which will be closed this weekend.  Significant additional rainfall may result in earlier closure.  We are in the process of contacting affected campers and issuing refunds."

The statement also said that boat ramps, parking lots, and other facilities have also been affected by high water.  Lake officials are urging patrons to please pay attention for signs and barricades which will help you avoid hazards and assist in allowing access to areas.

"Boaters should use caution this weekend, the statement said. "The lake contains lots of drift and submerged debris.  If you have questions, please feel free to contact our office at 270-286-4511."

Clicks McGee, Edmonson Voice
Power was restored to near 100% of WRECC customers in Edmonson County by Thursday, but more downpours and strong winds caused additional problems for residents this afternoon.

Reports of more downed trees, limbs, and debris came in from all parts of the county and several reports of flash flooding were given out along the south western areas.

Washington Street and Brownsville City Park were temporarily closed due to a large tree blocking the roadway at the park entrance. Willie Webb Road bridge remained underwater this afternoon.

Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, July 5, 2016. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding.

Trenton Vincent, No/expired registration plates. No/expired KY registration receipt. Continue in two weeks.

Ricky G House, Fugitive from another state-warrant required. Custody transferred to Gallatin Police.

Darla J Richards, Operating on suspended/revoked license. Improper registration plate. Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security. Failure to notify address change to dept. of transportation. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial conference 8/30/16.

Lori Michelle Cripe, Alcohol intoxication in a public place. Pleaded guilty, fined $25. 

​Timothy Tabler, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol. Operating ATV on roadway. Possess open alcohol beverage container in motor vehicle. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial conference 8/2/16.

Gene Duncan, Driving on DUI suspended license-1st offense. Continue 7/19/16.

Jacob Lewis, Driving on DUI suspended license-1st offense, amended to operating on suspended license. Pleaded guilty. Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security 1st. Pleaded guilty. Continue in two weeks for sentencing.

Kevin P Wesolowski, Failure to wear seat belts. No/expired registration plates. No/expired KY registration receipt. Failure to produce insurance card. Continue on 7/19/16.

Chad E Eagler, Operating ATV on roadway. Failure to illuminate head lamps. Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs, aggravator.

Darren Doyle, story and photos
Heavy rains were said to be the main factor in a two car, head-on collision on Chalybeate Road today, just south of the Chalybeate Food Mart.

Officials said that Cindy Massey of Chalybeate was headed south in a Pontiac Grand Am when she said she experienced difficulty seeing through the heavy rain. Officials said that she was in the process of finding a place to pull over but was unaware that she had drifted into the path of a Chevy Tracker driven by Larry Downy of Watervilet, Michigan, who was headed north. The vehicles then collided head-on.

Downy and his two juvenile passengers where transported to the hospital via Edmonson EMS for a possible chest injury to the driver and several lacerations to the juveniles.

Massey was also transported to the hospital via Edmonson EMS for a possible neck/back injury.

The second wave of severe thunderstorms hit the accident scene seconds after emergency personnel cleared the area. Crews left directly from there to begin clearing trees, limbs, and debris from roadways county-wide.

Darren Doyle, story and photos
Severe thunderstorms ripped through Edmonson County around 3pm on Wednesday, July 6, 2016, toppling trees, twisting limbs, and throwing debris everywhere. 

Virtually all of Edmonson County was without power at press time. 

Highway crews, emergency personnel, and volunteers were out county-wide clearing downed trees and limbs from roadways. Several state and county roads were blocked with trees and debris.

​Warren Rural Electric released a statement that said "At 3:45 p.m., there were over 13,000 Warren RECC members without power. All crews are working to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. To report outages in Warren County, call 270-843-9710; outside Warren County, call 1-888-604-4321."

WRECC urges anyone who sees a downed power line to stay clear and call Warren RECC immediately.

Officials say there are reports of downed power lines all across the county which means power outages could last several hours.

Edmonson Voice Staff
Traffic was backed up in both directions today in the 3000 block of KY HWY 259 N, just south of B. Douglas road after a single vehicle accident sent two to the hospital.

Officials said Michael Fields of Glasgow, the driver of a Mitsubishi Montero, said he lost control of the vehicle as he was traveling north. The SUV left the roadway and slammed into a road tile. Officials said he complained with chest pain while his passenger, Tori Vincent, also of Glasgow, suffered head injuries. The air bag did not deploy and it was unclear if either was wearing a seat belt.

​Both were transported to Twin Lakes Regional Hospital in Leitchfield via Edmonson EMS. 

The accident is still under investigation by the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. A deputy on scene said possible criminal charges are pending. 

​Also responding to the scene was the Kyrock Fire Department.

Heavy rains washed out cookouts and other gatherings as folks around the county celebrated Independence Day today. Check out some of these wild photos of the flash flooding.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
In an unorthodox move, a Gallatin, TN police officer was sworn in as an Edmonson County special deputy in order to take custody of an Edmonson County man accused of stealing a trailer in Gallatin last week.

The Edmonson County Sheriff's office said they were contacted by the Gallatin Police Department on Friday, July 1, 2016 who said they had video of a man with a Bee Spring address stealing a utility trailer from Swim World Pools, a pool and supply store located on W. Eastland Ave in Gallatin.

They requested the Sheriff's Office to help locate the man with outstanding warrants, Ricky House, (52) whose last known address was on Oklahoma Road, but that location turned out to be a dead end.

Another possible local address was discovered through an investigation led by Deputy Jordan Jones, and the suspect was located at a residence on Little Henry Meredith Road in Wingfield where he was arrested on the outstanding warrant in Tennessee.

Deputy Jones said at first, the suspect denied being in Tennessee, but further investigation led to the recovery of the stolen trailer which had been sold to a man on South Alexander Creek Road. 

Officials said House began to complain with chest pains which required the sheriff's office to transport him to Caverna Hospital. Caverna officials were not equipped to handle heart problems there, so they requested that the suspect be transferred to Greenview Hospital in Bowling Green via Edmonson EMS. 

In an attempt to help stop impaired driving, the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office along with Brownsville City Police, KSP, and Mammoth Cave National Park has announced that local law enforcement will be conducting traffic safety checkpoints throughout the county this Independence Day holiday weekend.

"We want everyone to have a good time and enjoy their weekend," said Sheriff's Detective Wally Ritter. "We also want everyone to be safe and follow the law. If you're going to drink, please do so responsibly and don't get behind the wheel of a vehicle."

Officials urge you to make sure your license and registration is updated and that you have it in the vehicle along with current proof of insurance.

The following locations are approved traffic safety checkpoint locations in Edmonson County.

Edmonson District Court was held on June 28, 2016. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding. Only four cases appeared on this week's docket.

William Akridge III, Wanton endangerment first degree. Assault second degree. Pleaded not guilty to both. Pretrial hearing 7/12/16.

Matthew E Lee, Burglary 3rd degree. Fleeing or evading first degree on foot. Wanton endangerment first degree police officer. Resisting arrest. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial hearing 7/5/16.

Christopher B Wilburn, Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security 1st. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 7/12/16.

Dustin T Gibson, Failure to produce insurance card. Pleaded guilty, fined $50. Failure to wear seat belts. Pleaded guilty. Fined $25. Total fines and costs, $193.