Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County continues to show low positive COVID-19 cases, according to the latest data from the Barren River District Health Department. With only 5 new cases reported over the last 8 days, the coronavirus pandemic has consistently had a lesser impact on the county than some other areas of Kentucky.

The BRDHD reported a total of 132 known positive cases from the beginning of the pandemic in Edmonson County, with 113 recoveries and 12 deaths reported. Ten of those 12 deaths were reported from Edmonson Center. The center has reported no new deaths or any new cases in over two months. Total cases minus recoveries and deaths (25) equal seven active known cases in the county today.

New CDC recommendations regarding getting tested were also released this week. These guidelines recommend testing only when experiencing symptoms, which is in contrast to the Governor's Office's consistent recommendation of increased testing. Beshear still recommends more testing, especially if one has knowingly come in contact with someone with a positive case. Beshear disagreed with the recommendations and discussed them at his Wednesday press conference.

"That's reckless," Beshear said. "It contradicts everything that we know and have learned about this virus. It is inexplicable. And in Kentucky, we're going to still continue to do the right thing."

Some of the new CDC guideline language includes:

• If you have been in close contact (within 6 feet) of a person with a COVID-19 infection for at least 15 minutes but do not have symptoms: You do not necessarily need a test unless you are a vulnerable individual, or your health care provider or State or local public health officials recommend you take one.
• If you do not have COVID-19 symptoms and have not been in close contact with someone known to have a COVID-19 infection: You do not need a test.
• If you are in a high COVID-19 transmission area and have attended a public or private gathering of more than 10 people (without widespread mask wearing or physical distancing): ​You do not necessarily need a test unless you are a vulnerable individual or your health care provider or State or local public health officials recommend you take one.

The full CDC report can be read here.

Edmonson Voice Report:
A Radcliff man was arrested Wednesday night after a complaint and altercation with officers that led to force by a taser, according to Edmonson County Sheriff Shane Doyle.

Sheriff Doyle said that deputies were dispatched to the Minit Mart in Brownsville around 10pm on August 26th to respond to a complaint of an intoxicated customer, where they saw the suspected vehicle leaving the parking lot. The Sheriff said the vehicle had expired tags and a deputy activated emergency lights for a traffic stop but the suspect drove into the Brownsville Manor apartment complex, parked in a spot, and attempted to walk towards an apartment unit.

According to Sheriff Doyle, the suspect was ordered to stop and identify himself, as the Sheriff noted that all KY drivers are required to present identification if requested by law enforcement under KY law; however, the suspect then allegedly became belligerent and aggressive toward officers and then fled on foot. 

The Sheriff reported that after several commands were given for the suspect to stop, a taser was deployed and the suspect was detained, who was identified as Ian Robbins, (22), of Radcliff.

Robbins was arrested and charged with:

• DUI-third offense
• Fleeing/evading second degree
• Resisting arrest
• Driving on DUI suspended license.

He was first transported to Caverna Hospital by Edmonson EMS then to Hart County Jail.

Edmonson Voice Report:
A Pine Grove man faces multiple felonies after a domestic incident occurred early this morning, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

A press release from the Sheriff's Office said that officers made contact with a Jay J. Norris (49) of N. Alexander Creek Road to follow-up on a report of a domestic disturbance, where shots were reportedly fired inside the home. Officers reported that upon contact with Norris, he was found to be in possession of two pill bottles; one contained a controlled substance (drug unspecified) and drug paraphernalia and the other contained suspected methamphetamine.

The sheriff told the Edmonson Voice that Norris admitted to snorting prescribed pain medication that was not his. 

Deputies also reported finding two loaded handguns, suspected Gabapentin, and marijuana, according to the release. Deputies also reportedly observed bullet holes in the kitchen cabinets matching the trajectory of the earlier reported domestic disturbance, according to the sheriff.
​
Norris was arrested and charged with:

• Possession of Handgun by Convicted Felon
• Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense (methamphetamine)
• Possession of Marijuana
• Possession of Controlled Substance, 3rd Degree—Drug Unspecified
• Drug Paraphernalia—Buy/Possess
• Wanton Endangerment—1st Degree
• Trafficking in Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense (<2 GMS Methamphetamine)

​Norris was lodged in Hart County Jail.

Superintendent of Schools Brian Alexander sent the following statement to the Edmonson Voice earlier today:

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
A local non-profit basketball league took matters into their own hands after learning of the condition of the basketball courts at Chalybeate Sports Complex, which is part of Edmonson County Parks and Recreation. With their action and their relationship with another volunteer group called Bridge Kentucky, the park received four, brand-new basketball backboards, rims, and nets, along with a complete cleaning and restoration of the courts.

The "EC3" League, a non-profit 3-on-3 basketball league founded by local residents Caleb Skaggs and Peyton Talley, both of Chalybeate, and other league board members had shared ideas about being able to do something positive through the COVID pandemic, which caused their season this year to be cancelled.

"We knew the courts at the park were getting in bad shape but the next day, we saw an Edmonson Voice article about how the backboards had been broken and they were unusable," said board member Melinda Campbell. "We knew at that point we had to do something."

Bridge Kentucky was then contacted by Mrs. Campbell, who had worked with them before, and after donations to EC3 from local businesses, Campbell said the ball got bouncing on how to make some improvements at Chalybeate Park. While the Edmonson County Parks and Rec Office works tirelessly to keep up facilities and maintain the parks, vandalism commonly happens faster and more rampant than park workers can fight, and unfortunately, what their budget will allow.

"Edmonson County is full of those that are always looking to help others," said Campbell. "We have a lot of great people who want the same opportunities for all kids here and all communities here, and it seems like this project was pieced together by accident, but by people who had the same goal of helping the community."

​Matt Boston, Director of Bridge Kentucky, which is based in Barren County, said the organization has reached a "goal" of beginning their expansion into other counties in the BRADD area.

"Our main target is at-risk families, foster kids, and troubled areas, but our goal is help provide ways so that everyone has the same opportunities to grow; whether that's financially, mentally, physically, or whatever the need is to reach their potentials. We got in touch with Melinda and shared our ideas, she liked it, and ever since then, it's been go-go-go, and that's exactly what we want because a lot of people need help right now."

Boston said the virus pandemic has taken a toll on so many in Barren County and the surrounding area. 

"If we can make a difference in Barren County, why not Edmonson, too?" he said. "Our goal is to 'bridge' that gap wherever we can. What better way to do that other than a park? Everyone can come here, enjoy it, spend time, hang out, and the best part is, it doesn't cost any money to come to the park."

​Caleb Skaggs said he hoped this wasn't the last collaboration with Bridge Kentucky.

"We spend a lot of time at the park and noticed it wasn't in good shape," he said. "We got in touch with (park director) A.B. (Webb) about fixing everything and he jumped in with us. This is just the start of what EC3 wants to do in Edmonson County."

Director of Parks and Rec A.B. Webb said the county was only out some labor and some standard hardware to replace the backboards, which are painted steel backboards and rims. The backboards were painted by local shop owner Richie Jones of Jones Custom Creations.

The old plexi-glass boards were thrown away and volunteers from EC3, Bridge Kentucky, and local youths assembled the new backboards and installed them on Monday, August 24th along with Parks and Rec personnel.

Both Webb and Parks Program Director John Kiernan helped with the install yesterday and both expressed their gratitude of the help the county received from the volunteers. 

Like most everything else in Edmonson County, the park system has a very limited budget and must often rely on grants, volunteers, and other projects when it comes to large expenditures. One volunteer said the next step for the park was coordinating a video camera system that will hopefully deter vandalism. 

You can volunteer for Bridge Kentucky or apply for assistance through them by visiting their Facebook Page. You can also become part of EC3 via their Facebook Page as well.

​Darren Doyle, story:
An Edmonson County man was arrested and faces multiple felony charges after a brief standoff with law enforcement on Friday evening, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

Through an interview with Sheriff's Office personnel, The Edmonson Voice learned that law enforcement was dispatched to 4057 Chalybeate School Road to respond to a complaint of a dispute between a landlord and tenant. The Sheriff's Office said that while en route, law enforcement was notified that the landlord had allegedly forced entry into the tenant's place of residence. 

The Sheriff's Office said that an officer made contact with the tenant and that the landlord had returned to his home, which was next door. The landlord was identified as Keith Graham, (56) of Bowling Green (south Chalybeate/north Wingfield area).

​An officer who followed him to his residence next door said that when contact was made with Graham, he threatened the officer by saying "I'm going to shoot you," as he headed back inside his house. The officer said that Graham threatened to shoot law enforcement multiple times and that backup was requested.

After a short standoff, one officer was able to talk Graham out to his front porch while other officers subdued and arrested him after an altercation with officers, according to a Sheriff's deputy.

Deputies reportedly found prescription pills out of their original container along with drug paraphernalia at the residence. One deputy said Graham appeared to be under the influence of drugs during the incident.

Officers said Graham never presented an actual firearm during the incident.

Graham was charged with:

• Two counts of Terroristic threatening-3rd degree
• Fleeing or evading police-2nd degree on foot
• Resisting arrest
• Disorderly conduct
• Assault-3rd degree (police officer)
• Disorderly conduct
• Possession of controlled substance-1st degree, first offense
• Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess

​Edmonson County Sheriff's deputy Austin Meredith graduated from the Department of Criminal Justice Training law enforcement academy on August 13th. He said this incident occurred on his second day on the job since his graduation.

According to law enforcement, more charges are pending regarding the incident involving the tenant.

Darren Doyle, story:
Brownsville Police Chief Jeff Jewell has officially resigned from his position, as confirmed to the Edmonson Voice by Brownsville City Attorney Marc Lovell. Mr. Lovell gave no reason for the resignation and said he couldn't comment further.

In today's Edmonson County Fiscal Court virtual meeting during Sheriff Shane Doyle's regular report, he informed the court that the city has asked him to be the interim supervisor for their city department.

"I can't go into a lot of details because this is an active investigation," Sheriff Doyle said to the court, "but this was a very abrupt resignation. The city has a fairly new officer that is basically working unsupervised right now and they've asked me to act as their law enforcement supervisor until a long-term solution is found."

Doyle said the Sheriff's Office and Brownsville City Police have always worked closely together, and the county regularly responds to city calls; however, being short a city officer, which is also a supervisor, will increase the workload for the Sheriff's Office. 

"We're waiting to receive something in writing from the city attorney," Doyle said. "That will make everything official for now and then we'll see what can be worked out in a long-term solution."

We reached out to former chief Jewell for comment but messages were not returned.

Darren Doyle, story:
The Barren River District Health Department reported only one new known positive COVID-19 case in Edmonson County this week, making it only 5 new cases over the last two weeks. With known recoveries and reported deaths from coronavirus figured, Edmonson County's current number of active cases stands at only 13. Deaths that were reported to have come from the virus (12) have remained the same for nearly two months.

These numbers are in contrast to a White House report, a portion of which that was tweeted by Governor Andy Beshear this week that listed Edmonson County as a "yellow zone" county, meaning it has between a 5-10% positivity rate. The positivity rate is calculated by taking the total number of current positives and dividing them by the total number of tests administered; however, we were told directly by Kentucky's top epidemiologist Dr. Doug Thoroughman that there was no good way of calculating this number, due to the number of testing facilities that are not reporting their tests administered. All facilities, however, are required to report their positive tests.

Dr. Thoroughman told the Edmonson Voice, "Even at the state level, we don't have a good way of accounting in a given county what tests have been given, or how many tests have been given."

We took issue with Governor Beshear's sharing of this information because it was in direct contrast with state, regional, and local data, which the Edmonson Voice has tracked, or attempted to track from the beginning of the virus. Some of this data provided to us was from Kentucky governmental agencies. We contacted the Governor's Office and asked this question specifically: "We were told by all these entities that either they don't track administered tests or that the positivity rate for individual counties is not available. If that's the case, how can the Governor's tweeted graphic labeled "White House Report," that showed Edmonson County as one of many in KY with a 5-10% positivity rate be accurate? The White House now has information on individual county rates in KY but Kentucky does not?"

We did not receive a response from the Governor's Office; however, we were forwarded the complete White House report by the Office of Public Affairs of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. The report listed several counties in Kentucky as troubled areas and described how this was determined. This method contrasted from data regularly reported in Kentucky.

According to the report, Edmonson County was placed in the "yellow zone," because it supposedly met one of two conditions: 1. It had 10 or more confirmed cases per 100,000 people during the week of August 8 - 14th; (special note: the BRDHD reported only 5 new cases for Edmonson County during that time period) Or 2. It had a viral (RT-PCR) lab test positivity result between 5-10%, data which the state epidemiologist told us was not available for Edmonson County. Not that we couldn't obtain it, but that it didn't exist because there was no good way to calculate it. The report also included a "red zone," which were counties reporting both new cases above 100 per 100,000 population, and a viral (RT-PCR) lab test positivity result above 10%.

While Edmonson County saw a slight increase in cases during the week of August 2nd through August 7th (14 cases,) the county has not seen the same negative impact from COVID-19 as many surrounding counties. When one sees our county in a report flagged by the White House and shared by the Governor with his tweeted statement, "If you add the red and the yellow counties, you are close to, if not over, 50% of the entire state. We must work to get #COVID19 under control in Kentucky," it could cause unnecessary fear. 

According to the data we can confirm, COVID-19 is already under control in Edmonson County, at least at the moment.
​

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Clerk Kevin Alexander discussed possible voting options for the upcoming 2020 General Election, where he said he hopes to see all county polling places open to the public.

"This morning, the board of elections decided to go ahead with my recommendation of having our regular polling places open," he said. "We feel confident we will have the workers to do this."

Last Friday, an announcement made by Secretary of State Michael Adams and Governor Andy Beshear outlined procedures for the election, which will be held Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020.

Details for the plan include:

​1. Absentee ballot by mail

• Kentuckians concerned with health and safety can request a ballot by mail.
• An online portal will launch within the week to allow Kentuckians to request a ballot by mail. Ballots can be requested through the portal through Oct. 9, and through traditional means after.
• Mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day, Nov. 3, and received by Nov. 6.
• Drop boxes will be available for Kentuckians to return their mail ballots if they are concerned about postal delays. County clerks will determine these locations.

2. Early voting

• Beginning Oct. 13th, Clerk Alexander said in-person voting will be expanded in his office, which includes Saturdays.
• Early voting is not absentee voting – anyone can vote early for any reason.

3. Election Day voting

• County election officials will decide election sites on Election Day. The State Board of Elections, Secretary of State and Governor will approve each plan.
• Every county will have at least one voting super-center, where everyone from the county can go to vote, regardless of his or her precinct.

VOTER ID NOW REQUIRED:
Alexander also is reminding all voters that Senate Bill 2 was signed into law on July 15th, which requires all Kentucky voters to present a proper photo I.D. Secretary Adams issued a statement that answered frequently asked questions.

"While non-photo ID (or personal acquaintance with the poll worker) previously was required to vote, the ID presented will now need to include a photo of the voter to be valid as defined in KRS 117.375(12), as amended," one portion stated. 

"The most common form of a valid photo ID is your driver’s license. Other examples of acceptable ID (as long as they include your name and photo) are: Military ID, College ID, or Kentucky government ID. A voter’s identity still can be confirmed by personal acquaintance with an election official, but now the election official must sign an affirmation."

Kentuckians who were unable to get a driver’s licenses or photo ID due to the pandemic because their clerk’s office was closed, or because they were afraid of exposing themselves to COVID-19, can sign a document explaining this concern and cast their ballot.

Alexander also noted that long-time republican representative of the local election committee Bob Kleier has stepped down after many years of service. 

"Sharon French was appointed the new republican representative by the state at the recommendation of the local republican party chair," he said. "We are grateful for Bob's service over the years and I thank him for his hard work and dedication."

Edmonson County High School has made the following announcement regarding distribution of Chromebooks and class info:

Judge Executive Wil Cannon's Office has announced that the next fiscal court meeting will be held virtually via Zoom, which is August 24, 2020. 

The entire notice is published below: 

Darren Doyle, story:
Governor Andy Beshear's account tweeted a graphic today showing counties in Kentucky with a 5-10% COVID-19 positivity rate (total number of positives divided by the total number of tests administered). Edmonson County was included in this graphic; however, this information is in direct contrast to our conversation last week with the top epidemiologist in KY, Dr. Doug Thoroughman.

Dr. Thoroughman said "Even at the state level, we don't have a good way of accounting in a given county what tests have been given, or how many tests have been given."

​​He then described a process where all labs are asked to enter information into a daily survey, which is both total number of positives and tests, and break that down into what type of tests they are, but he described that process as "not very good because a lot of those people are repeat-tested so they can be in those numbers more than once." 

"Nothing's perfect, I'll tell you right now, there's no good way to get positivity rate in any state, unless the state health department is the only testing body in the state, there's no good way of getting that."

Unless the state has figured out how to break this down county-by-county in just one week, this graphic cannot be accurate. The only numbers tracked by the regional health department are positive cases, deaths, and recoveries.

According to today's numbers for Edmonson County from the Barren River District Health Department, who doesn't track total amount of tests administered, there are only 14 known active cases in Edmonson County, which has a total population of 12,000. That means as of now, one tenth of one percent of the population of Edmonson County has been confirmed positive for coronavirus (.01%). That obviously isn't the way positivity rates are figured, but without knowing the total number of administered tests to Edmonson County residents, this rate simply cannot be figured. 

Until the state can provide accurate data on tests administered county-by-county, The Edmonson Voice will not report positivity rates, as it would be irresponsible on our part to relay this equation without all the variables necessary to provide accurate numbers.

MAMMOTH CAVE, Ky., August 14, 2020. – The Green River Ferry and Green River Ferry Road north in Mammoth Cave National Park will be closed to all vehicular traffic on August 17-20 in order to complete a freshwater mussel relocation project and pavement preservation project. The relocation work is being conducted in advance of the next phase of the Green River Ferry improvement project which will extend the south ramp 30 feet into the river and require the installation of a coffer dam, and the paving work is a part of the ongoing project to resurface paved areas throughout the park. 
 
The Green River in Mammoth Cave National Park contains some of the most diverse populations of freshwater mussels in North America. Over 50 species of mussels are found within the park with ten species included on the federally endangered list. The extension of the Green River Ferry access will require coffer dams to be built to restrict water across sections of the river. These dams, as well as the construction equipment’s impacts to the riverbed and dredging, would negatively affect the many mussels living in the construction zone

The mussel relocation project will involve a specially trained dive team who will collect mussels and “re-plant” them in the riverbed either above or below the Green River Ferry crossing. The park relocated over 2,500 mussels in May 2019, just prior to the construction work on the north Green River Ferry ramp. The mussel team collected twenty-eight different species of mussels including two species of federally endangered mussels: fanshell (Cyprogenia stegaria) and sheepnose (Plethobasus cyphyus).  
 
To check the current status of the ferry operation, follow Mammoth Cave Roads and Ferry (@MCNPRoadsFerry) on Twitter or call the Green River Ferry Hotline at 270-758-2166.  ​

Darren Doyle, story:
A Bee Spring man was killed in a single vehicle crash today in Bee Spring, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

The Sheriff's Office said Ira Meredith, (88) of Jock Road, was headed south on HWY 259 near Jones and Gravil Tax Service around 1:30pm today in a 1998 Chevy S-10 pickup when his truck exited the right side of the roadway and overturned. Meredith was ejected from the passenger's side window. 

He was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Edmonson County Coroner Brentley Esters, assisted by Deputy Coroner Richie Jones. It was reported Mr. Meredith was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.

Officials at the scene said it was a possibility that Mr. Meredith suffered some sort of medical emergency that might have led to the crash. The accident is under investigation by the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

Also responding to the scene was Edmonson EMS, Kyrock Fire Department, and Edmonson County Emergency Management.

Darren Doyle, story:
New positive reported COVID cases in Edmonson County rose by 18 this week (126 total cases) while recoveries rose by 16 (95), according to the Barren River District Health Department. The reported deaths from coronavirus in Edmonson County have not changed in nearly 6 weeks; holding at 12 deaths, 10 of which were reported from Edmonson Center nursing home facility.  

According to numbers provided by BRDHD, there are currently 19 active known positive COVID-19 cases in Edmonson County, (sum of recoveries and deaths subtracted by total cases) or roughly one tenth of one percent of the county's total population (.01%) of 12,000 people.

We attempted to calculate a local positivity rate (the total number of positive cases divided by the total number of tests administered) for both the county and the BRDHD, but there is no access to the number of tests administered in individual counties. As we reported earlier today, Kentucky Epidemiologist Dr. Doug Thoroughman told us there was no good way of calculating a positivity rate at the state level and that doing it locally is not feasible at this time.  

In the Barren River District, cases rose by 355 (4316), while recoveries rose by 301 (3515) according to the BRDHD. The department also reported an increase in deaths from coronavirus by 2 (85).

Across KY, Governor Andy Beshear reported 38,298 known positive coronavirus cases, which is an increase from 33,796 last Friday. Recoveries rose by 432 over the same time period and deaths across the commonwealth rose by 40 to 804 total reported deaths from COVID-19.

Darren Doyle, story:
In case you needed more confusion about the coronavirus numbers, data, and percentages, a new number has popped up on the COVID-19 radar, which is "positivity rate." 

Governor Andy Beshear continues to stress this number in his regular press conferences, which recently has remained over 5% in KY. He reported yesterday this rate stood at 5.67%. The positivity rate is calculated by dividing the total number of confirmed positive cases by the total amount of tests administered; however, that number is only accurate if the total number of tests administered is also accurate. 

During last Friday's Edmonson Voice update on coronavirus cases in both Edmonson County and the Barren River Health District, (which serves 8 counties), we wanted to calculate the positivity rate for Edmonson County and compare it to state numbers. We reached out to A Plus Family Healthcare, a local clinic and a current area hot spot for COVID testing. CEO Patrick Merritt confirmed that their clinic has not been reporting total number of tests administered to any local or state entity, as there has been no requirement from the clinic to do so; however, they are required to report the total number of positive cases to the Barren River District Health Department. 

We asked BRDHD if they could provide us with the amount of tests that have been administered in Edmonson County, as well as the amount of tests administered district wide, a population of more than 276,000 people. 

We received an emailed response from Kim Flora, listed as Human Resources Manager for Barren River District Health Department. In the email she said, "BRDHD is not tracking the total number of tests being administered so we cannot give that number for our region."

After reaching out to the Governor's Office, we were directed to Susan Dunlap, Executive Director of the Office of Public Affairs for the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. She gave us some general information how administered tests are reported but our specific question was what is the exact process that ensures all testing facilities, (and those can be everything to large hospitals, all the way down to small localized clinics), are reporting the total number of tests that they are administering. Our entire mission was to provide a localized positivity number to compare to statewide numbers. The Edmonson Voice has consistently seen lower numbers in Edmonson County for both active coronavirus cases and deaths than many other surrounding counties, as well as lower than statewide numbers. ​

She said she was not certain she could give me a comprehensive answer, so she directed us to Dr. Doug Thoroughman, Epidemiologist for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. He oversees the infectious disease operation in KY and is tasked to ensure KY follows national guidelines. We spoke with him on the phone on Tuesday.

"Even at the state level, we don't have a good way of accounting in a given county what tests have been given, or how many tests have been given," he said. 

He then described the Kentucky Health Information Exchange, which is an electronic data collection system that gathers data from most hospitals and some providers that allows clinicians to share information. If a doctor sees a patient, he or she can access this information portal and see patient information, where COVID data can be seen and shared, but because all medical facilities don't use this, problems occur.

"In the case of COVID-19, there's a whole boatload of new labs that have started testing that have never done public health testing before. A lot of them are labs that traditionally test for drug levels in people for places of employment, and a lot of them say, 'hey look I can do some COVID testing and make some extra money,' and now they're doing COVID-19 testing and a lot of them are unfamiliar in public health reporting and surveillance, and they've never reported to state health departments or local health departments."

He said those labs are unaware they're supposed to report this information and no one knows how many of them are out there; however, every facility is required to report their positive cases.

"By law, labs only have to report positive tests, they don't have to report all their tests--they only have to report positives, so if they're aware they're supposed to be reporting, and we try to make sure people are aware--but like I said, not all are--but by law, they're only required to report their positive tests."

​We then asked how can KY's positivity rate be accurate if these hurdles exist for gathering the necessary data.

"So the way we're getting positivity rates, and it's only a statewide rate-we don't get a per-county, it's by a different mechanism because of that very issue. We don't have a very good way of getting all these numbers together--and I will just say---the positivity rate is just an estimate because it's definitely not complete with all the testing that's been done."

He then described a process where all labs are asked to enter information into a daily survey, which is both total number of positives and tests, and break that down into what type of tests they are, but he described that process as "not very good because a lot of those people are repeat-tested so they can be in those numbers more than once." 

"Nothing's perfect, I'll tell you right now, there's no good way to get positivity rate in any state, unless the state health department is the only testing body in the state, there's no good way of getting that."

Some argue it is unfair to claim Kentucky's positivity rate is accurate if all lab facilities are not tracking the total amount of tests administered. Others say the process of data collection is accurate enough to give Kentuckians a fair assessment of the situation; however, the fewer administered tests that are reported compared to the same number of positive cases, which all testing sites are reporting, will result in a positivity rate that could potentially be much higher than the correct rate. What does that mean?

According to the World Health Organization, before a region can relax restrictions or begin reopening, the test positivity rate from a comprehensive testing program should be at or below 5% for at least 14 days. If KY's positivity rate remains above 5%, restrictions will likely remain in place as they've been.

Beshear has recently made what he described as a "recommendation" to push in-person school back to September 28th; however, he has come under fire from school officials all across the state claiming that while it's being labeled as a recommendation, it is much more serious than that. 

Edmonson County Schools voted to delay in-person classes until September 28th; however, all students will begin virtual classes on September 8th.

Barren County unanimously voted to start in-person classes on August 24th, going against the Governor's recommendation. They also offer virtual classes for those that choose not to attend in-person. Bowling Green City Schools are holding a special called meeting tonight to make their decision. Warren County Schools still plan to open in-person classes on the same date, August 24th. ​

An Edmonson County Grand Jury recently returned the following indictments:

Jackson Simmons, Rape 3rd degree (5 counts), Sodomy 3rd degree (5 counts), Unlawful transaction with a minor first degree-illegal sex act (10 counts).

Robert A Pedigo, Theft by unlawful taking $500 or more, Persistent felony offender first degree.

Brandon Shaw, Failure to comply with sex offender registration. Persistent felony offender first degree.

Keith Wallingford, Escape 2nd degree, Fleeing or evading police 2nd degree (on foot), Disorderly conduct 2nd degree, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess, Possession of controlled substance first degree (meth), Tampering with prisoner monitoring device, Criminal mischief 3rd degree, Persistent felony offender 1st degree.

John R. Meredith, Tampering with prisoner monitoring device, Persistent felony offender first degree.

Roger Clark, Trafficking  controlled substance first degree-second offense (meth), Possession of controlled substance first degree (meth), Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess, No/expired registration plates, Obstructed vision and/or windshield, Persistent felony offender first degree.

​Sara V. Frederick, Trafficking in controlled substance first degree (meth), Possession of controlled substance first degree (meth), Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess.

Steven F. Burns, Possession of controlled substance first degree-second offense (meth), DUI first offense, Possession of marijuana, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess.

Tommy Ladd, Wanton endangerment-first degree, Disorderly conduct second degree. 

Laura McCain, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess, Possession of controlled substance first degree (meth), Possession of controlled substance first degree.
​

Jagger Filback, Possession of controlled substance first degree-firearm enhanced, Trafficking controlled substance first degree-firearm enhanced, Possession of marijuana-firearm enhanced, Trafficking marijuana less than 8oz-first offense-firearm enhanced, Unlawful transaction with a minor-second degree, Unlawful transaction with a minor-first degree-illegal controlled substance-victim under 18 years of age, Unlawful transaction with a minor third degree, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess-firearm enhanced, Trafficking in legend drug, Illegal possession of a legend drug.

Jimmy Vincent, Strangulation first degree, Assault first degree-domestic violence, Possession of marijuana.

Ryan Minton, Trafficking in controlled substance-second offense (meth), Trafficking in controlled substance first degree-second offense, Fleeing or evading police second degree (motor vehicle), Possession of marijuana, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess, Tampering with physical evidence, Reckless driving.

Jonathan Sparks, Fleeing or evading police-first degree (on foot), Assault third degree-police officer, Resisting arrest, Possession of marijuana-firearm enhanced, Possession of handgun by convicted felon, Persistent felony offender first degree.

Jonathan Weaver, DUI first offense, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess, Assault second degree, Wanton endangerment-first degree, Possession of marijuana, Tampering with physical evidence.

Nathan Mullet, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess, Possession of marijuana, Tampering with physical evidence.

Mitchell T. Poynter III, Strangulation first degree, Assault degree-domestic violence, Unlawful imprisonment second degree, Terroristic threatening third degree, Intimidating a participant in the legal process.

​Note: An indictment is only a formal charge and is not an admission of guilt. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Superintendent of Schools Brian Alexander has announced that the opening day for in-person classes at Edmonson County Schools will be pushed back to September 28th as recommended by the Governor; however, all students will begin the school year on September 8th, either by virtual instruction for students that chose virtual learning this year, or by NTI, for those that chose in-person instruction for the upcoming school year.

Supt. Alexander provided a statement to the Edmonson Voice earlier today describing the school's stance on the matter as well as an explanation behind this decision. The entire statement is published below:

Darren Doyle, story:
Governor Andy Beshear announced today in a press conference that administration officials, in consultation with Kentucky teachers and school administrators, he is recommending schools meet via virtual classes only until the end of September.

“Our recommendation today is that schools wait to begin in-person classes until Sept. 28,” the Governor said. “Yes, that’s six weeks from now, but it’s also six weeks from what I hope is the peak of this virus, six weeks from the last three weeks where we have been at an all-time high week in and week out, six weeks from a time when we just had a 6% positivity rate. Let’s face it, we’re trying really hard and we’ve taken good steps. Masks are working. But we do not have control over this virus. And to send tens of thousands of our kids back into in-person classes when we don’t have control of this virus, it’s not the right thing to do for these kids, it’s not the right thing to do for their faculty and it’s not the right thing to do as Governor.”

He said the decision was driven by four factors: Kentucky’s cases being near a peak, an increase in infection rates among children across the U.S., the experience of school districts in other states, and families continuing to travel to hotspots for vacations against the advice of health officials.

The Edmonson County Board of Education previously approved the 2020-21 school calendar and the first day of classes beginning on September 8th. 

Superintendent of Schools Brian Alexander said no changes have been made to the school calendar at this time; however, the board will soon make a decision regarding the Governor's recommendation.

"We're aware of the Governor's recommendations and we're looking at all aspects of this situation, just like we've done from the beginning," he said. "We are working on multiple plans because as we've said all along, this is a fluid situation and we need to be ready to adjust. We will continue making the best possible decisions for the students, faculty, and staffs of Edmonson County Schools and will keep the public updated as soon as possible with any changes that are made."

Bars & Restaurant Order:
​La Tasha Buckner, the Governor’s chief of staff and general counsel, offered an update on bars and restaurants operating in the commonwealth.

“Today we are issuing a new order, effective tomorrow, which will allow bars to reopen and restaurants to increase their capacity,” Buckner said. “Both bars and restaurants can operate at 50% of capacity, as long as people can remain six feet from anyone who is not in their household or group.”

She said the reopening and increase in capacity comes with new requirements to avoid another spike in COVID-19 cases. First, customers in both bars and restaurants will be required to remain in their seats, except when entering, leaving or using the restroom.

Second, bars and restaurants will be required to halt food and beverage service by 10 p.m. and close at 11 p.m. local time.

Face Covering Mandate Extended for 30 More Days:
“Third, as the Governor mentioned previously, the face-covering requirement has been extended as of Sunday for another 30 days,” Buckner said. “Therefore, just like in other businesses, all customers and staff must wear a face covering while in the bar or restaurant except when actively eating or drinking.”

Darren Doyle, story:​
Edmonson County Fiscal Court met today at 9AM in the upstairs courtroom of the courthouse where several discussions took place, including possible litigation against the seller of the future site for a county animal shelter and a special election for District 3 magistrate this November. 

In Sheriff Shane Doyle's update to the fiscal court, he described a series of weekend events at Blue Holler ATV Park as not only problematic for the area, but also for law enforcement and medical personnel. He said his office has received numerous complaints about large gatherings at the park during the pandemic, as well as noise and similar complaints, but he said health regulations as a result of the pandemic are left up to the local health department and the Kentucky State Police, which he said was was the law enforcement agency dedicated to enforcing the Governor's executive orders, according to a conversation he said he had with the Attorney General's Office.

"We don't have the manpower to police the entire area, plus, we can only enter there on official business if we're responding to a complaint," said Sheriff Doyle. "This weekend, there were multiple medical emergencies at the park that included four different medical helicopter runs, plus additional ambulance runs. It was estimated that as many as 18,000 people attended the park this weekend. We want businesses to do well in our county but it has to be kept under control with regards to public safety. We wrote several citations for riding ATVs on the roadways, but if we'd have started arresting people for public intoxication, we'd have needed five different buses to haul them all away."

Jailer Hank Vincent, who is also a paramedic with Edmonson County Ambulance Service, said five buses wouldn't have held them all. 

"It's overwhelming," said Vincent. "And it's going to get worse out there. I wouldn't be surprised if the next thing you hear out there is a killing."

Doyle said one of his deputies was tied up for 10 hours at the hospital with an individual so drunk he suffered a major medical issue. The individual allegedly refused to cooperate with medical personnel at the site after the health concern and law enforcement had to intervene.

The park is located in the Ollie community in District 5, which is magistrate Johnny Brooks' area.

"When you put that many people in one place like that, there's going to be problems," Brooks said.

Phone calls to Blue Holler ATV Park were not immediately returned.

​

​​In other reports given from county offices, County Road Supervisor Greg Carroll said county road crews were busy with tile installation and drainage work as well as mowing throughout the county.

Jailer Hank Vincent reported 14 county inmates currently housed at the Hart County Jail with one on home incarceration.

The county also voted to:

1. Acknowledge Dog Control July CAD/Duty Status Report.
2. Acknowledge July Shelter Directors Report.
3. Approve Resolution EC 20-26, Affiliation Agreement with South Central Kentucky Crime Stoppers.
4. Approve FY21 Litter Abatement Grant Application.
5. Approve to Appoint Barbara Fitzhugh to Barren River Council on Aging for 2 year term.
6. Approve to refund Anthem Health Insurance COVID Relief Credit to employees at $56.00 per employee on health plan.
7. Approve Treasurer’s July Monthly Settlement.
8. Approve Sheriff’s July Monthly Fee Account Report, pending final audit.
9. Approve Sheriff’s July Franchise Tax Report, pending final audit.
10. Approve County Clerk’s July MVAV Collection Report, pending final audit.
11. Approve County Clerk’s July Occupational Tax Report, pending final audit.
12. Approve County Clerk’s July Deed Transfer Tax Report, pending final audit.
13. Approve County Clerk’s July Excess Fee Account Report, pending final audit.
14. Approve County Clerk’s July Delinquent Tax Collection Report, pending final audit.

​The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for August 24, 2020 at 9AM. 

Darren Doyle, story:
Governor Andy Beshear appointed democrat Charlie Tarter as Edmonson County District 3 Magistrate on July 24th to fill the vacant seat left by the passing of republican Magistrate Clark Wood in March of 2020; however, Tarter must be elected in November in order to keep the position.

County Clerk Kevin Alexander discussed the scenario at today's Edmonson Count Fiscal Court meeting. He said that the law states that in a situation where an elected office has an appointment from the Governor in a situation of a death, there is a 90-day window where that appointment stands until the next election cycle for that office. In Edmonson County, that election would be November of 2022. Since Tarter was appointed after that period, a special election for magistrate in District 3 must be held in November, despite the fact there will be no other county offices on the ballot. 

Alexander further stated that the election will be write-in only; however, not just any name will be counted. One wishing to run for this office must file at the County Clerk's Office by October 23, 2020, even though it's a write-in election. Currently, three candidates (all republicans) have filed to run. They are: Billy Joe Honeycutt, Faron Lindsey, and Terry Joe Hennion.  

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Fiscal Court voted 4-3 against filing a lawsuit against Rollin Rountree after a lengthy discussion at today's meeting. Magistrate Corey VanMeter made the motion to file the lawsuit against Rountree, which was seconded by Magistrate Mark Meeks. Rountree's extended deadline is now nearing 6 weeks past due. 

The county voted to enter a into a purchase contract with Rountree in September 2019 for a 12-acre tract on HWY 259 (Veteran's Memorial Highway) for a price of $105,000. The contract stated that the county would pay $20,000 down and would pay the $85,000 balance upon Rountree vacating the property by a deadline of June 1, 2020. The property held a mobile home, an abundance of heavy equipment, machinery of all types, and salvage items.

In May of this year, Rountree addressed the fiscal court and said the property where the vehicles and property were going to be moved had been too wet and he simply couldn't do it in the time period since September of 2019. Rountree said many of the items were moved over a period of one weekend, but he still needed more time and asked the court for an extension. He also said he had no intention of still being on the property on that current date when he sold the land to the county back in September. 

The county granted him a penalty-free extension through July 1, 2020 at the May 26th fiscal court meeting. That deadline has now passed with some of Rountree's personal property still at the premises. Judge Executive Wil Cannon read a text message he received from Rountree to the court today where Cannon said the message stated Rountree was still working to move the rest of the personal property off the land and vacate the premises. According to the extended deadline, Rountree would lose $5,000 of the balance owed as of today. 

County Attorney Greg Vincent updated the fiscal court on how litigation would work in a suit against Rountree, which had been discussed in a previous closed session.

"This lawsuit would be asking a judge to require Mr. Rountree to comply with the contract and simply make him turn it over to the county, as the signed contract says," he said. "The county will have to sue Rountree, his wife, and the bank, because the bank holds a mortgage against the property. This is a common lawsuit and there's not really any defense to it. The bank will insist their mortgage will be paid and the county will insist to take ownership of property. All this does is force Mr. Rountree to uphold his end of the already agreed upon and signed terms."

Vincent said filing the suit would cost the county a couple hundred dollars in filing fees. 

Judge Cannon said he didn't feel the suit would accomplish anything more than what the weekly $1,000 penalties are doing. The motion to file the suit then went to a roll call vote that went as follows: Mag. James Vincent YES, Johnny Brooks NO, Charlie Tarter NO, Corey VanMeter YES, Mark Meeks YES, Edd Rich NO, and Judge Wil Cannon voted NO. The motion to file a lawsuit against Rountree did not pass.

According to the current contract, Rountree will continue forfeiting $1,000 per week until he vacates the premises and turns possession of the property over to the county.

Darren Doyle, story:
A Brownsville man is facing multiple felony charges after law enforcement officials say he struck a man on a lawn mower during a DUI crash on Friday.

According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, Clay Davis, (19) of Brownsville, was traveling north on Louisville Road (KY HWY 31-W) in a Chevy Impala when his vehicle left the right side of the roadway and struck a man mowing his yard near the intersection of KY HWY 422. The unidentified man was transported to the Medical Center for unknown injuries.

The Sheriff's Office said that multiple witnesses on scene claimed that Davis had been driving erratically on 31-W and that witnesses and a deputy reported the strong smell of alcohol at the scene. Officials said that a breath test at the accident site showed that Davis' blood alcohol level was three times over the limit. Davis was arrested and charged with Driving under the influence and Wanton endangerment.

Law enforcement said that once Davis was transported to the Sheriff's Office for processing, he became unruly towards another deputy and threatened to kill him. Deputies said that Davis attempted to fight the deputy and that officers had to subdue him by the use of a taser, which they said had to be activated three different times.

The Sheriff's Office also said that the crash involving the lawn mower was not a direct hit, but investigation showed that it was a side-swipe, which officials said likely saved the unnamed man's life.

Davis was faced with more charges, which included:

• Assault, third degree (police or probation officer)
• Resisting arrest
• Terroristic threatening, third degree
• Operating motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, aggravated circumstances
• Careless driving
• Wanton endangerment, first degree

A sheriff's deputy said more assault charges are pending. Davis was transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail. Edmonson EMS and Rocky Hill Fire Department assisted at the crash scene and KSP also assisted in the investigation.

Darren Doyle, story:
Coronavirus cases rose in Edmonson County by the largest reported confirmed number (14) in several weeks, from 94 last week to 108 today, as reported by the Barren River District Health Department. Reported confirmed recoveries rose by 5, to 79 total with 12 reported confirmed deaths; a number that has held steady for a month.

Across the BRDHD area, total confirmed cases rose by less than one percent (.89%) while recoveries rose by 1.1%. Deaths rose from 81 to 83, according to press release from the health department. 

Edmonson Voice Report:
A Rocky Hill man and a Park City woman were arrested on multiple felony charges and warrants after a three-county pursuit that ended in the driver's car being disabled, according to Kentucky State Police.

KSP said Trooper Jordan Matthews, of Kentucky State Police Post 3 in Bowling Green, observed a blue Toyota car fail to stop at a stop sign on Old Bardstown Road in Barren County.  Trooper Matthews reportedly activated his emergency equipment, but the vehicle failed to pull over and started to flee.  An official press release from KSP said based on the vehicle registration plate, it was determined that the registered owner had active warrants.  The vehicle reportedly continued on multiple roads in Barren, Edmonson, and Warren Counties but came to a stop after a tire deflation device was successfully utilized on Louisville Road in Warren County, KSP said.

​Troopers identified the operator of the vehicle as 25-year-old Cody Brady, of Rocky Hill, Ky, who was taken into custody and lodged in the Hart County Jail.  He was charged with:

• Menacing, 
• Possession of a Controlled Substance, 
• Possess of Drug Paraphernalia, 
• Tampering with Physical Evidence, 
• Criminal Mischief, 
• Failure to Produce Insurance Card, 
• License to be in Possession, 
• Speeding, 
• Disregarding Stop Sign, 
• DUI 1st, 
• Fleeing or evading Police (Motor Vehicle), 
• Reckless Driving, 
• Wanton Endangerment 1st (Police Officer), 
• Failure to or Improper Signal, 
• Failure to Wear Seat Belt and 
• Resisting Arrest.  

​Brady was also served with active warrants.

​A passenger in the vehicle identified as Brittany Decker, (26) Park City, was also lodged in the Hart County Jail.  She was charged with:

• Resisting Arrest,
• Menacing,
• Possession of Controlled Substance,
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and
• Tampering with Physical Evidence.

​
​Decker was also served with active warrants.