Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Schools has announced a new method of security that will be used at each school, called the "Raptor Visitor Management System," according to a letter sent to parents and guardians of students from Callie Beliles,  Director of Facilities and Safety of EC Schools.

"Part of keeping students and faculty safe is knowing who is in our buildings at all times, and the Raptor system will allow us to do that," Beliles stated in the letter. "The Raptor system will better allow us to screen visitors, contractors, and volunteers in our schools and provide us with a safer environment for our students and staff."

According to the letter, upon entering a district building, visitors will be asked to present an ID such as a driver's license, which can either be scanned or manually entered into the system. If a parent or guardian for any reason does not have a US government-issued ID, the school staff member can use any form of identification and manually enter the person's name into the Raptor system. The Raptor system will check to ensure that registered sexual offenders are not entering school campuses without knowledge.

The Raptor system checks the visitor's name and date of birth for comparison with a national database of registered sex offenders. The registered sex offender database is the only official database checked by the Raptor system. No other data from the ID is gathered or recorded and the information is not shared with any outside agency. Once entry is approved, Raptor will issue a badge that identifies the visitor, the date, and the purpose of his/her visit. A visitor's badge will not be necessary for those who visit our schools simply to drop off an item in the office or pick up paperwork. 

"The safety of our students is our highest priority and the Raptor visitor management system allows us to quickly identify those that may present a danger to our students," she continued in the letter. "We will still be requiring that a form of identification be left with the front office staff for safeguarding while the visitor is in the building, and will be returned to the visitor upon signing out. Thank you in advance for your understanding and your support in enhancing the school safety protocols in our district."

​Superintendent of Schools Brian Alexander said that he understands that some may oppose having to use ID when visiting the school, but he still feels this is one effective option for school safety.

"The use of ID for entering and visiting a schools during the school day is becoming a standard procedure across the region, state, and nation," he said. "While it is a change, it is a proven way to access data and part of a safeguard. Any inconvenience when weighed against safety of our children is well worth it."

He said that the Raptor System is a proactive approach the school system is taking to be sure visitors entering local schools meet the criteria necessary to be on school premises, and is also a safeguard in releasing students during check-out procedures. 

​"The system will also allow our secretaries and receptionists to efficiently assist parents and guardians throughout the school day, especially at peak times," he added.

​

Edmonson Voice Report:
Two individuals were arrested after meth was found in the vehicle they were in during a traffic stop on Friday, according to a statement from the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

Officials said that around 10pm on August 27th, an Edmonson County Sheriff's deputy observed a Mazda pickup cross the centerline multiple times in a short distance on Nolin Dam Road. During the traffic stop, the driver​ was identified as Andrew Hampton (40) of Brownsville, and the passenger as Kristina Emery (41) of Morgantown.

According to the Sheriff's Office, Hampton was given field sobriety test and consent to search the vehicle was given by Hampton, which resulted in the discovery of suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

The Sheriff's Office said that neither Hampton nor Emery took ownership of the drugs and paraphernalia, so both were arrested and charged with:

• Possession Controlled Substance 1st Degree, 1st Offense (methamphetamine)
• Drug Paraphernalia—Buy/Possess

​Hampton was also charged with Careless driving.

Both were lodged in Hart County Jail.

​Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Superintendent of Schools Brian Alexander has announced that schools and school sports and activities will be shut down throughout September 3rd.

His full statement is published below:


“Edmonson County Schools will close at the end of the school day on August 27, 2021, and will remain closed the week of August 30th through September 3rd. Edmonson County schools will reopen on Tuesday, September 7, 2021, after the observance of Labor Day. This closure is a direct result of the large number of COVID positive and quarantine cases that are affecting the staff and students of Edmonson County Schools.

Throughout this week our number of positive and quarantine cases have grown exponentially, and our school district has no reasonable alternative other than school closure.

Edmonson County Schools will adjust the school calendar to account for this closure at a later time. Fall Break for this school year will not be affected by this closure.

This will be a closure that will not utilize Non Traditional Instructional (NTI) Days. In talking with our school-level administrators, the students that have been and are currently affected by COVID need an opportunity to make up missing work and assignments; a closure will allow teachers to have a common starting point for instruction upon return on September 7th.

During our closure, all athletics and extracurricular activities and contests are suspended with the exceptions of state qualifying events. School offices will be open during the closure and parents and students are strongly encouraged to communicate with our schools during this week in students need assistance with makeup work. Also, if students need to turn in excuses for absences prior to closure, or if families need to inform school administration about any COVID-related positive cases or quarantines due to household contacts during closure please call your respective school between 8:00 am and 3:00 pm each day.

We ask that our families please use caution during this closure and keep students from congregating and gathering. Such activities will only compound the problem we are currently facing that forces us to make this closure and lead to more problems when we return to school.

As always, the health and safety of the students and staff of Edmonson County Schools is the number one concern of our Board of Education and myself. When we are placed in a situation where we cannot transport and supervise students in a manner that we feel is safe and in the best interest of the families of Edmonson County, we will always side with caution. We hope our school community understands this, and we look forward to a future of normalcy and high-quality learning for the students of Edmonson County.”

Supt. Brian Alexander

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office is seeking assistance in the investigation of two stolen tractors and two stolen trailers that has taken place over the last three days.

"Two days ago, we received a call that a utility trailer and a farm tanker trailer were stolen from the Smiths Grove area," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "This morning, we received a call that two John Deere tractors were stolen from the Park Mammoth area."

The Sheriff's Office obtained security footage that shows a suspect's white Ford Ranger. 

Anyone with information about the stolen property or the vehicle in question is asked to contact the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office at 270-597-2157.

Edmonson Voice Report:
​Residents accustomed to using Little Beaver Creek Road in Warren County will need to make alternate plans. Starting Tuesday, August 24th and what will likely last through October, a bridge over the roadway will be undergoing replacement, according to Warren County Public Works Director Josh Moore.

Warren Fiscal Court has accepted a $363,709 bid from Stewart Richey Construction to replace a low water ford bridge over Little Beaver Creek near the Edmonson County line, located off of Wingfield Church Road and will use $80,000 in emergency bridge funds from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for the project, Moore said.

The bridge is typically inundated by the flooding stream it crosses, and the replacement is expected to alleviate the majority of such problems, he said.

The bridge is about 50 feet long. Moore worked with the Army Corps of Engineers, Kentucky’s Division of Water, and other agencies to get the necessary approvals.

Signage has been posted in the area to warn motorists of the construction, Moore said.  

Edmonson Voice Report:
One woman was arrested and faces a felony drug charge and more after careless driving led to a traffic stop and the discovery of meth, the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office said.

The Sheriff's Office stated that around 1:30 pm on Sunday, August 22, 2021, a deputy observed a Chevrolet Lumina traveling north on KY HWY 259 N weaving in its lane of travel. A traffic stop was initiated and the operator stopped in the middle of the road before then being instructed by the deputy to move to an open driveway, the Sheriff's Office reported. The vehicle’s operator was identified as Jenna M. Dunn (36) of Smiths Grove.

Dunn allegedly admitted to having methamphetamine in the vehicle and after a search was conducted, the deputy discovered suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, according to the Sheriff's Office. Also located on Dunn’s person was additional suspected methamphetamine, the Sheriff's Office stated.

Dunn was arrested and charged with:

• Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense (methamphetamine)
• Drug Paraphernalia—Buy/Possess
• Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance, 1st Offense
• Careless Driving

​She was lodged in Hart County Jail.

Darren Doyle, story:
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has canceled his statewide school mask mandate that he ordered on August 10th, due to a KY Supreme Court ruling on Saturday, but has discussed the possibility of considering a statewide mandate. However, the cancelled order is unrelated to the KY Board of Education emergency order on August 12th that required masks in schools. That order still remains in effect. 

Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander has addressed the current situation that has no effect on the current mask status in Edmonson County Schools.

His entire statement is published below:

Edmonson Voice Report:
A Scottsville man was arrested Saturday night after law enforcement found him in possession of meth in a school parking lot, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

The Sheriff's Office reported that around 11:00 pm on Saturday, August 14, 2021, deputies observed a vehicle parked with its lights off in the parking lot of the Edmonson County 5/6 Center. Deputies reportedly detected the strong odor of marijuana from the vehicle as they approached to make contact with the driver, who was identified as Christopher G. Jones (27) of Scottsville.

Jones admitted to having marijuana on his person and when deputies conducted a search, they found suspected marijuana and drug paraphernalia with suspected methamphetamine residue, the Sheriff's Office stated. A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of additional suspected methamphetamine.

Jones was placed under arrest and charged with:
• Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 3rd or > Offense (methamphetamine)
• Drug Paraphernalia—Buy/Possess
• Possession of Marijuana

He was lodged in Hart County Jail.

Edmonson Voice Report:
​The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet today announced the Edmonson County Fiscal Court will receive $100,000 in County Road Aid emergency funds for slide repair on Brooks Road.

A portion of the road, which joins Union Light Road and Brier Creek Road, was closed due to a collapse into a private lake on June 8, 2021. Repairs have been ongoing since that time.

“The Transportation Cabinet is pleased to approve this request for funding to provide assistance to Edmonson County to repair and maintain safe connections in the community,” said Transportation Secretary Jim Gray. 

The repairs will take place on Brooks Road located from a half a mile north of KY 1015.
​
The Edmonson County Fiscal Court is responsible for administering the work.

County Road Supervisor Greg Carroll said that the repaired section of the road has been reopened for now.

"We will start repaving it on Monday," he said. "There are 2,000 tons of blacktop to lay. If there's no bad luck, it will take two weeks to pave it, then all the repairs will be complete."

Edmonson Voice Report:
Sean Sanders has been appointed as the newest member of the Edmonson County Board of Education. He was sworn in at the August 9, 2021 Board Meeting by Mrs. Tonya Jones.

Mr. Sanders will represent District 5, which is the Mammoth Cave and Lincoln community.  He will fill the vacancy left by departing board member Keith LaMastus.  ​

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
A juvenile teen was air lifted to the hospital today after a single vehicle crash on Sulphur Road, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. 

According to Sheriff Shane Doyle, a male juvenile driver was operating a 1996 Ford Ranger on Sulphur Road around 3:45PM. Sheriff Doyle said the driver told him that he was driving too close to the center of the road and met an oncoming vehicle. Doyle said the driver told him he swerved to miss the car, overcorrected, and exited the right side of the roadway, crashing into Sulphur Creek.

The driver and one other passenger, also a juvenile, refused medical treatment at the scene, according to the Sheriff. The third passenger was air lifted to Norton's Hospital in Louisville for possible closed head injuries. His status in currently unknown. The other passenger stood in the creek and helped emergency workers keep the damaged passenger door shut in order to prevent the injured teen, who was in and out of consciousness, from falling out until he could safely be removed from the vehicle.

Emergency personnel worked through the heat, humidity, and knee-deep water to help stabilize the pickup with jacks, bracing, and other securing methods to ensure the vehicle was steady enough for EMS workers to enter the truck and remove the passenger.

Doyle said the driver of the oncoming vehicle, which was not involved in the crash, immediately turned around to offer assistance.

In addition to the Sheriff's Office, also responding was the Chalybeate Fire Department, Brownsville Fire Department, Edmonson EMS, and Edmonson County JAWS. 

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Edmonson County Schools were back in session as the 2021-22 school year started today. Principals from all five schools spoke to the Edmonson Voice about their experiences, which all went smoothly, despite a last-minute mask mandate that had administration and staff scrambling yesterday afternoon.

Kyrock Elementary
Kyrock Principal Shaun Stice said that the entire community is glad to back in school today.

"Parents, teachers, and students are all smiling," he said. "We have had no issues with masking.  The parents have been very supportive and understand that this is something we are being required to do."

He said that the school staff had received no negative comments in-person, although there was plenty of upset parents that took to social media last night.  

"We really have a fantastic staff up here that goes out of their way to make sure every child's needs are met who can adapt to change without any problems," Stice said.  

SEES
Mrs. Sarah Hatton, new Principal at South Edmonson Elementary described the school's first day as "fabulous."

"Students and teachers were smiling today and it was just great to be back at school," she said. 

Although it was more than hot today, she said that kids were able to go outside at different times for mask breaks.

"Yes, we were hit with some last-minute changes, but this staff stepped up and everyone agreed, 'ok, this is what we're going to do,'" she said. "All our parents and students did great and I couldn't have asked for things to go more smoothly."

She continued not only bragging on the SEES staff, students, and parents, but also the PTO, who has helped acclimate the new principal to the community and the school.

"They've done such an amazing job introducing me to families and getting to know everyone. They've been wonderful and today was great. I'm looking forward to having a great second day tomorrow."

Edmonson County 5/6 Center
Newly named Principal at the 5/6 Center, Chad Johnston said his school saw a great day.

"The atmosphere was great at the 5/6 Center today," he said. "Our students showed up with a positive attitude and were eager to get back to school.  Our teachers worked hard for the students and had fun with them all day long."

Mr. Johnston said there were no issues with students and masking today.  

"The staff and students were obviously ready for school to begin and we look forward to having a great year."

​ECMS
Brandon Prunty, Principal at Edmonson County Middle School said their school got off to a great today.

"The teachers and staff have done a wonderful job to prepare for the year," he said. "Even with the mask mandate curveball thrown at us at the last minute yesterday evening, we were able to successfully communicate that to our parents and students through OneCall and our Facebook page. I appreciate our students' willingness to follow the mandate and wear their masks. We've been fortunate to have no issues so far. "

Prunty said he utilized new technology by having a school-wide Google Meet this morning will students in the classrooms.

"We discussed school rules and expectations, like we would in the gym on day one in a normal year. We talked about everyone giving their best each and every day; teachers and staff will give their best, so we expect the same from our students. Google Meet is just another example of how we've learned to adapt on the fly as new things come our way. I'd ask parents and guardians to be patient with us as we navigate through anything else that we might face. If parents have any individual questions or concerns about ECMS they can give us a call or check our Facebook page."

​ECHS
Principal Jonathan Williams said he didn't know what to expect this morning with the changes that were thrown at the school system yesterday afternoon, but he said the high school had a great first day.

"We had a lot of energy flowing in the building and our staff was extremely glad to be back and have our kids back with us," he said. "It was great to have the whole student body here at the same time for my first time as principal. It is always busy the first day back but it was a fun day."

Mr. Williams said administration had some conversations with students about the mask mandate.

"We had some students question the mask mandate and some who didn't want to wear a mask," he said. "First of all, I assured them I personally didn't want to, either. Secondly, Mrs. Culbreth (Assistant Principal) and I met with them and had an awesome discussion about executive orders, the legislative and executive branches of government, and about our options as a school district. I respect our students very much and enjoyed the conversation with them. It was so encouraging and refreshing to have adult conversations with them and I left very impressed."

Williams said he hopes ECHS can get past masking and other distractions and keep moving toward a positive year.

"I hate it that we are having to go through this again but I feel resolve among our people, students included, to rise above and have a great year, regardless of the circumstances. Once A Wildcat, Always A Wildcat," he added.

Superintendent Brian Alexander
Mr. Alexander was candid about the surprise mask mandate ordered by Governor Andy Beshear yesterday afternoon. He said a frustrating point of the executive order was that local schools had no indication that this order was coming and that school districts across the state found out at the same time the public did.

"The number one thing I am most upset about is the lack of regard given to families in Edmonson County, and across the Commonwealth, in terms of the Governor’s executive order," he said. "I have been following the surge in positive cases since mid-July in an effort to stay informed and to keep our Board informed.   I have been watching this trend for quite some time and the Board and I, as well as Central Office and Building administrators, have discussed the surge in cases.  Local health providers have kept me apprised of case numbers.   So for me to know all this with my limited resources makes me wonder why the decision made yesterday wasn’t made sooner by our state leadership, with the vast resources at their disposal.  Again, I represent Edmonson County and it’s people.   I think the decision, for our families and our county, could not have had worse timing. I don’t like to see attention taken away from the excitement of the first day for students."

While administrators discussed positive days today, they immediately had to adjust yesterday afternoon with no notice. 

"Also, I am a big believer in local control," Alexander said. "This has been taken from us in this instance. I have been asked about personal freedom by many parents since yesterday afternoon.   I do believe in personal freedom. I own guns. I worship God. I respect the fact that people have the freedom to do this or not to do this. That’s part of what our country was founded on.  However, as a school district, we have been placed in a position where we must follow this executive order.   In Kentucky an executive order is law.   As a school district we can’t start picking and choosing which laws we follow and which ones we don’t.   That is not the example we need to set for our kids."

Although Mr. Alexander worked with all local schools today to help adjust to the changes, he said he couldn't be more pleased with how the first school day ended.

“I’m extremely proud of our teachers and staff at each school, both new staff and veterans, for their hard work and preparation that made the first day of the 21-22 school year so successful," he added.
   
"Each of our schools has excellent leadership and our administrators work hand in hand with our teachers and staff to make this day successful.   Our central office staff has worked with our schools throughout the summer since the end of school last year as well to make today, and this coming school year, a success.  Our transportation department has dealt with road closures and COVID restrictions as well, but continue to safely transport our kids."

He finished his interview with thanking Edmonson County students and families for trusting the local school system throughout the pandemic with COVID limitations and restrictions.

"We work hard to provide the best educational experience possible," he said. "The great thing about Edmonson County is the love we have for our kids and how we pull together for our children.”

Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander has released a statement regarding Andy Beshear's new mask mandates for all Kentucky schools. 

​The entire statement is published below:

Darren Doyle, story:
Just when many students were prepared to start a closer-to-normal school year tomorrow, Governor Andy Beshear says masks will be required in schools, as directed by yet another executive order from his office.

"We gave a very clear recommendation that every school in Kentucky to mandate masking," he said today in another press conference. "For everybody in the building. Really simple, really clear, and 100% scientifically backed from the very top of the CDC to every local health department. We didn't see all our school districts grab a hold of that, but I'll talk in a minute, we have seen a bunch of them, we've seen a lot of local leadership."

Beshear went on to say that students simply wouldn't be able to go to in-person school right now if people are unwilling to put on a mask.

"We're to the point where we cannot allow our kids to go into these buildings unprotected, unvaccinated, and face this delta variant," he said. "So I'm going to have the courage to do what is right. To protect our children. I've always told people I'd always treat every Kentucky child like they're mine, and treat every family like mine. So today, I'm signing an executive order that requires--that requires-- all individuals, all teachers, staff, students, and visitors in K-12 schools and childcare, and pre-K, wear a mask."

The actual language in the order reads as follows:

Face Coverings Executive Order:
Children age 2 and up in child care, pre-K, K-12 schools

• All individuals-all teachers, staff, students and visitors-must cover their nose and mouth with a face covering when indoors in all public and private preschool, Head Start, elementary, middle and high schools (preschool through grad 12, as well as child care centers) in Kentucky, regardless of vaccination status.

 Just yesterday, Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander announced extra precautions all local schools would be taking to help stop the spread of COVID. In that announcement, Alexander said that while masks would be recommended, they would not be required; however, that is likely going to change, pending a statement from Edmonson County Schools.

"Edmonson County Schools are aware of the governor's executive order regarding masking that was announced this afternoon," he said. "However, we have not had time to draft a response regarding this announcement.  School districts were not given advance notice regarding this announcement."

He said the school system will release a statement later this evening at approximately 7:00 pm CT regarding the governor's Executive Order. 

"We realize the timing, with tomorrow being the first day for students, is not optimal to say the least," he continued. "We understand parents and students have questions; please allow us the opportunity to prepare a statement regarding this after reading the Executive Order."

The complete executive order document can be read here.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander has announced additional COVID prevention measures taken by the school district for the upcoming school year.​

There are currently no mask mandates except for those riding on school buses, which is state mandated.

At this time the only masking mandate that we are following is the mandate for students to be masked to board the bus to and from their home in the mornings and evenings," Supt. Alexander said. "Buses will be ventilated to the highest degree possible, with roof hatches open and windows down at the beginning of school, weather permitting. Once again this year, we will choose not to utilize switch-buses as to not run the risk of additional exposure to students who ride the bus."

Alexander said that masking in schools is encouraged but will not be required, according to current guidelines. 

"Also, we will work hard in every instance possible to maintain social distance of 3 feet as is recommended," he said.

Edmonson County School district will follow KDE guidance with respect to quarantine guidelines for students and staff that are COVID positive or quarantined due to close contact.

"This is a very fluid situation, but we work hard to follow the latest guidance," he added.
​
Below are additional points of consideration:

• We will be turning off water foundations, but leaving bottle filling stations open, as these are touchless. We will provide students with water bottles if they forget to bring one from home.  
• We will continue to clean with chemicals that will kill COVID 19, yet safe for students and staff in the school environment  
• We will continue to use electrostatic sprayers to encompass large areas and hard to reach spaces with Covid fighting disinfectants  
• We are working toward getting bipolar ionization devices on our HVAC systems to circulate clean air.  This will aid with the prevention of not only COVID, but also Strep, Flu and Staph, as well as and other airborne viruses and bacteria.  
• We will sanitize desks between students with a solution to kill the virus  
• All high traffic areas such as door knobs, desks, hand sanitizer stations, rails, bottle filling stations, and bathrooms are wiped down and cleaned multiple times a day with high quality & safe chemicals to kill Covid 19, yet safe for students and staff in the school environment  
• Our floors are mopped with solution known to kill Covid-19, yet safe for students and staff in the school environment
• Hand washing is highly encouraged throughout the day and hand sanitizer stations will always filled completely
•  We continue to work to find new products and methods to keep students and staff safe at school and on their travels to and from school.

​"Please know that we are doing everything we can to keep students and staff safe in terms of cleaning our schools and our buses," Alexander stated.

The first day for students is Wednesday, August 11th. You can visit the school district calendar right here on the Edmonson Voice.

Darren Doyle, story:
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 3 has announced two state highway projects that will impact traffic in Edmonson County. The following roadways will undergo repair:

• KY 728 Nolin Dam Road (mile point 3.3) – A slide repair project has started on Nolin Dam Road east of Math Minton Road. Once the slide repairs have been made, crews will repair the damaged asphalt pavement. Motorists should expect shoulder closures and occasional flagging as equipment work near the traveled way.
• KY 238 Sunfish Bee Spring Road (mile point 9.3) – A slide repair project will temporarily close a section of KY 238 east of Duvall Cemetery Road. The road will remain closed until mid October. A signed detour using KY259, KY 70, and KY 187 will be in place. Motorists should allow extra time to get to their destination.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
A very brief meeting was held for Edmonson County Fiscal Court on Monday, August 9, 2021 in the upstairs courtroom of the Edmonson County Courthouse.

County Road Supervisor Greg Carroll reported multiple tile installations throughout the county and that both Brooks Road and the new lot on the south side of the courthouse were ready to be paved. He also said that mowing of right-of-ways was ongoing in District 6.

Sheriff Shane Doyle reported that a new part-time school resource officer was being hired soon. He said the individual was a certified officer that had served for Nashville Metro and other agencies.

The current jail report was read by Judge Executive Wil Cannon, which stated there were 26 county inmates currently housed at Hart County Jail. 

County Attorney Greg Vincent reported to the court that he had been asked to review a proposed ordinance from a citizen outlining requirements for lighting in subdivisions. Vincent said he would be more than happy to review; however, he presented a copy to each magistrate and asked them to review it first. He wanted to ensure that the fiscal court was interested in moving forward with such an ordinance before he reviewed it. He said if the court determined there would be no interest in the ordinance, there would be no need for him to review.

A.B. Webb, head of Edmonson County Parks and Rec, said that he is currently working with Edmonson County Schools to see that the new ECHS soccer teams (both boys and girls) will be able to play and practice at the county park in Chalybeate. Youth basketball leagues are also able to use school facilities and Webb said Parks has always had a good working relationship with the school system.

Judge Cannon added to Webb's report about the possibility of adding RV hookups at Chalybeate Park. He said several bring in RVs to the park for horseshoe tournaments and it might help draw more participants.

Cannon also updated the court on the current rec tax system, which charges entertainment facilities a .50 cent flat rate per ticket or admission sold. He said the rec tax commission was working on updates to the policy in order to make the tax rates more fair to all businesses.

He gave an example that compared a local karaoke business to the local ATV park. He said both pay the same .50 cents per admission; however, if the karaoke charges $5 per person, the business is paying a 10% tax on that admission. If the ATV park charges $250 for a weekend event, they still only pay .50 per admission, which is only 2/10ths of a percent tax. All funds from the county rec tax go to fund Edmonson County Parks and Rec.

The court also voted to:

• Acknowledge July BGWC Shelter Directors Report.
• Acknowledge July Dog Control CAD Report.
• Approve Sheriff’s July Monthly Fee Account Report, pending final audit.
• Approve to purchase 2005 Ford Expedition for Dog Control at $3900.00.
• Schedule Safety Meeting for September.
• Approve Joe Carl Daugherty pay increase from $10.24 to $13.00 per hour for Dog Control, effective 8/2/2021.
• Acknowledge Big Reedy Conservancy District 2021 Tax Rate.
• Acknowledge City of Brownsville 2021 Tax Rates.
• Acknowledge Edmonson County Public Library 2021 Tax Rates.
• Approve Resolution EC 21-20, Flex Road Agreement FY 2022.

The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 23rd at 9AM in the upstairs room of the courthouse.

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (Aug. 6, 2021) – Due to a historic home relocation, multiple roads near the roundabout area in Bowling Green are expected to see traffic disruption on Tuesday, August 10. Chestnut Street will be closed near Ogden Avenue at about 3 p.m. A rolling block will be in place as the house moves along Chestnut Street.

A traffic pattern change and partial closure will take place on U.S. 31-W at the roundabout beginning at 6 p.m. Loving Way and Oaklawn Way are expected to be impacted as well. Motorists are encouraged to avoid the roundabout area at U.S. 31-W, U.S. 231X University Boulevard and Loving Way by seeking an alternate route from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Message boards were put in place Thursday to give motorists advance notice of the disruptions.
​
Bowling Green Municipal Utilities, AT&T and Spectrum will be onsite moving utilities out of the way for the move. The historic house is being moved from Chestnut Street to Oaklawn Way. The total distance of the move is about a half a mile.

An indictment is only a formal charge and is not an admission of guilt. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
​
Edmonson Circuit Court was recently held where a Grand Jury returned the following indictments:

Cheri Beasley, Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree (Methamphetamine), Possession Of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess.

​Phildon D. Wooden, Trafficking In Controlled Substance In The First Degree (> Or = 2gms Methamphetamine, Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess, Wanton Endangerment-Second Degree Police Officer, Persistent Felony Offender In The Second Degree,

Shawn Skaggs, Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree (Methamphetamine), Tampering With Physical Evidence, Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess, Persistent Felony Offender In The First Degree.

​Dennis, W. Fuller, Operating Mv U/Infl Cont Sub- First Offense, Assault In The Second Degree, Criminal Mischief In The First Degree, Wanton Endangerment In The First Degree.

Michael Vance, Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess-Firearm Enhanced, Trafficking In Controlled Substance, First Degree (< 2gms Methamphetamine)- Firearm Enhanced.

Lancer G. Hodges, Strangulation In The First Degree, Assault In The Fourth Degree (Domestic Violence) Minor Injury, Wanton Endangerment-First Degree, Tampering With A Witness,  Persistent Felony Offender In The Second Degree.
​

​
Burton Houchin, Dui First Offense, Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree (Methamphetamine).

Billie Durbin, Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree (Methamphetamine), Tampering With Physical Evidence, Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess.

Jason Michael Weedman, Sexual Abuse In The First Degree-Victim Under 12 Years Of Age, Sodomy In The First Degree-Victim Under Twelve Years Of Age. 

Easton Rector, Trafficking In Controlled Substance, First Degree (< 2gms Methamphetamine)- Firearm Enhanced, Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess-Firearm Enhanced.

​Nicholas J. Baxter, Attempted Murder, Assault In The First Degree, Assault In The Fourth Degree, Wanton Endangerment-First Degree. 

​Keith L. Huff, Fleeing Or Evading Police In The First Degree (Motor Vehicle),  No Registration Plates, Obstructed Vision And/Or Windshield, Wanton Endangerment-First Degree, Failure To Wear Seat Belts, Wanton Endangerment-First Degree- Police Officer, No Operators License, License To Be In Possession. 

​Samantha A. Welsh, Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree (Methamphetamine), Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree, Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess, Possession Of Marijuana, Possession Of Open Alcohol Container In Motor Vehicle, Failure To Produce Insurance Card, Careless Driving, Prescription Controlled Substance Not In Original Container.

Christopher T. Thompson, Manufacturing Methamphetamine - Firearm Enhanced, Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree, Methamphetamine- Firearm Enhanced, Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess Firearm Enhanced.

Jimmy Allen Rich, (Four Counts) Sexual Abuse In The First Degree, Rape In The First Degree, Proh Use Of Elec Com Sys To Procure Minor/Peace Off Re: Sex Offenses, Attempted Sexual Abuse In The First Degree.

Jason Temples, Trafficking In Controlled Substance, First Degree(< 2gms Methamphetamine)- Firearm Enhanced, Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess-Firearm Enhanced.

Gabrielle Kemp, Possession Of Open Alcohol Container In Motor Vehicle, Possession Of Marijuana, Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree (Methamphetamine), Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess, Unlawful Transaction With A Minor Second Degree, Unlawful Transaction With A Minor Third Degree.

​Carrisa L. Carey, Possession Of Marijuana, Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree (Methamphetamine), Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess, Unlawful Transaction With A Minor Second Degree, Unlawful Transaction With A Minor Third Degree.

Auther Caldwell, (Two Counts) Terroristic Threatening In The Third Degree, Sexual Crimes Against Animals,  Assault In The Fourth Degree (Minor Injury) Persistent Felony Offender In The First Degree.

​Loretta Goodpaster, Assault In The Fourth Degree (Minor Injury), (Two Counts) Endangering The Welfare Of A Minor, Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First.

​Charles Grindley, Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree (Methamphetamine), Resisting Arrest, Menacing, Assault In The Fourth Degree (Domestic Violence) Minor Injury, Possession Of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess.

​Clay A. Roof, Strangulation In The First Degree, Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree (Methamphetamine), Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess, Assault In The Fourth Degree- Domestic Violence.

Randall T. Coulter, (Two Counts) Uor: 02763 Violation Of Kentucky E.P.O./D.V.O., Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree (Methamphetamine), Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess, Stalking In The First Degree.

​Raymond Harp, (Four Counts) Sexual Abuse In The First Degree,  (Four Counts) Attempted Sexual Abuse In The First Degree, Burglary In The Second Degree.

​Sharleena M. Byus, (Two Counts) Uor: 00197 Fleeing Or Evading Police In The First Degree (On Foot), Disorderly Conduct In The Second Degree, Obstruction/Interence With An Officer, Persistent Felony Offender In The Second Degree.

Katrina S. Holderman, Trafficking In Controlled Substance, First Offense > Or = 2 Gms Meth), Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess.

​Kirsten Jecker, Manufacturing Methamphetamine - Firearm Enhanced, Possession Of Controlled Substance In The First Degree, Methamphetamine- Firearm Enhanced, Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess Firearm Enhanced.

James T. Ashley, Dui First Offense, Wanton Endangerment-First Degree-Police Officer, Falsely Reporting An Incident, Persistent Felony Offender In The First Degree.

​Willie Ray Lindsey, Strangulation In The First Degree, Assault In The Fourth Degree (Domestic Violence) Minor Injury,  Fleeing Or Evading Police, Second Degree (On Foot), Persistent Felony Offender In The First Degree.

Darren Doyle, story:
A local man got an eye-opening surprise today (again) when he stumbled upon a large timber rattlesnake on his farm in the Ollie community while tending to a deer feeder.

Craig Browning of Chalybeate said he was ten bags deep into filling the feeder when he looked down and saw the rattler just three feet away.

"I'm usually very cautious when I'm tending to the deer feeder this time of year," he said. "When it's hot and dry, you gotta keep an eye out. But I hadn't seen anything all summer so I guess I gotten pretty relaxed. I normally carry a .38 special with rat shot, a homemade forked walking stick, and snake boots. Well, today, I didn't have any of that stuff."

Browning said he took a couple steps back and regrouped. He said he knew if he left the site to get his gun that the snake would be gone when he returned. Luckily, he had a camp hatchet and he was able to go a short distance to the edge of the woods, get a limb, and cut a makeshift forked stick. 

"The snake was still there when I got back," he said. "I called my son-in-law and put him on Facetime. I told him he was my backup 911 in case something went wrong," he said with a laugh; however, he said trying to kill a giant timber rattler with a stick and a camp hatchet didn't seem funny at the time.

"I forked the snake, but the forks were a little long, so he was able to squirm out a little bit, but a good knock on the head got him."

The snake measured out close to 60 inches and had 9 rattles. Browning killed almost the same exact size snake 4 years ago, on August 13, 2017, also shared with the Edmonson Voice.

"It was almost identical to the snake I killed four years ago, and within 20 feet of the same spot," he said. "This one pretty much scared me the same amount as that one did, too."

Browning, a very accomplished hunter and outdoorsman, said people often question him about his secret hunting spot where he regularly kills trophy deer.

"I'm raising trophy rattlesnakes," he said.

He said he plans on skinning the snake and displaying on a board in his hunting room.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
After missing the first fair in Edmonson County in more than 50 years due to the 2020 virus pandemic, the Edmonson County Lions Club Fair is returning to the fairgrounds in September.

Some of the most popular events featured annually at the fair are returning, such as the demolition derby, mud bog, pageants, and baby show; however, there are going to be some changes, still due in part by the pandemic.

The biggest change? There will be no carnival at this year's fair. Lions Club President Jimmie Duvall explained the situation to us earlier today.

"Of course, we had to cancel everything last year because of the pandemic," he said. "And we didn't really know if we were going to be able to have one this year, either. Carnival companies are expensive and they are booked at least a year in advance. By the time we decided it would be safe enough to have the fair this year, those carnival companies were no longer available."

Lions Club members Julia Wilson, who is also with the Edmonson County Extension Office, and Greg Hudson, Director for the Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce, are working together to try to create a fall festival-type atmosphere that will include a host of activities for this year's fair, which will take place on Fair Day.

According to Wilson and Hudson, activities scheduled so far are inflatables, games, food vendors, other vendor booths, exhibits, and a petting zoo with more possible additions coming later.

While many kids will be disappointed to know the rides won't be available this year, the annual Lions Club Parade is scheduled to take place on Fair Day, where kids will be out of school. The Edmonson Voice will also livestream the entire parade.

In addition to the parade and other popular events, the annual pageants are also scheduled to take place on Thursday, September 2nd and Saturday, September 4th at the Edmonson County High School auditorium.

The fair is also offering a new event, which is mud run for both trucks and side by sides. This is different from a mud bog as it is not a deep pit where most vehicles don't make it, but a slimy track intended to see how fast the vehicles can make it through.

Also added to this year's fair is the return of a very popular attraction not seen here since 2018, which is the rodeo.
​

The current schedule of events are as follows:

• Sept 2nd, 4th: Edmonson County Beauty Pageants (more info below)
• Sat, Sept 11th: Wild West Rodeo
• Monday, Sept 13th: Baby Show
• Tues 14th, Weds, 15th: no events
• Thurs 16th: Truck Mud Bog
• Friday, 17th: Fair Day, Parade that morning, Poultry Show at Fairgrounds during the day, Side x Side Mud Run that night
• Saturday, 18th: Demolition Derby

Times and other info will be updated closer to the fair dates.

The Lions Club is also working to construct a brand new demolition derby ring on the north side of the mud pits. Fair Board Chairman Mike Blanton said this was for the purpose of allowing more spectators to attend in a safer manner and would allow for more lawn chairs.

Duvall said while this wouldn't be exactly how the Lions Club would prefer, they are working hard to make it the best they can.

"We're already planning for next year," he said. "We've been in contact with several carnival companies. Several of them went out of business during the pandemic and it will take others a year or two to bounce back from it. County fairs are dying everywhere and we're doing all we can to see that this one keeps going."

All members of the Lions Club are volunteers and are paid nothing. All proceeds from the fair go towards the Lions Club charitable causes throughout the year, which include multiple benefits for the Edmonson County needy and children.

This year's Grand Marshal will be Scotty Woodcock, the last living charter member of the Edmonson County Lions Club.

PAGEANT INFO:
Lori Alexander is the coordinator for the Edmonson County Fair AND Local Pageants this year. She has released the following information regarding the 2021 Edmonson County Pageants:

Newly named Edmonson County 5/6 Center Principal Chad Johnston speaks with us about the upcoming school year, and shares his thoughts and plans for students and the community.