Auditor Mike Harmon discusses details of his office’s special examination of the Kentucky Communications Network Authority and KentuckyWired during a press conference in Frankfort on September 27. (Photo: Office of Auditor of Public Accounts) Cost overruns, botched procurement detailed in special examination of statewide broadband project Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Think that the KentuckyWired Project is a great move by the state? Not so fast, says a scathing report from the state auditor's office. A special examination by Kentucky Auditor Mike Harmon’s office of KentuckyWired, the statewide broadband project announced in 2014, finds that taxpayers will be on the hook for almost $1.5 billion over 30 years for the project. That is among nine findings detailed in Auditor Harmon’s nine-month examination of the Kentucky Communications Network Authority (KCNA) and KentuckyWired. Auditor Harmon’s report will be referred to the Executive Branch Ethics Commission for further review and possible action by that agency. “When KentuckyWired was announced by the prior administration, Kentuckians were told they would only be responsible for a $30 million investment approved by the General Assembly in 2014, and the majority of funding would come from private investment,” Auditor Harmon said during the release of the KCNA examination. “What we now find is that, between what has been paid out thus far, what has been bonded, and what we have been obligated to by former leaders, taxpayers are responsible for 93 percent of the total cost for KentuckyWired.” In addition, the report details that the KentuckyWired project is almost $100 million over budget for construction costs, and the original planned completion date for the project has already passed. Meanwhile, the state is making so-called “availability payments” to contractors for a network that is not available or operational. Auditor Harmon’s examination details other issues with KCNA and the KentuckyWired project, including:
“There are questions that remain as to why the terms were changed from the original proposal that placed little burden on taxpayers to what was signed the following year that put the responsibility of almost $1.5 billion on the Commonwealth,” said Auditor Harmon. “My office will use any and all authority given to us, including if needed our subpoena powers, in an attempt to get to the bottom of what happened, and to make sure future projects are done in a responsible and transparent fashion.” The full report can be found on the auditor’s website.
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Proficiency Scores Above State Average At All County School Levels Edmonson Voice Staff Report: The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) released assessment results for the 17-18 school year on Wednesday. This year’s results are the first released from the state’s new accountability system, and, as a result, the data looks different from past releases. Edmonson County Schools District Assessment Coordinator, Carol Stice, explained, “This is the first year that we have seen separate scores for the various indicators instead of one summative score for each school and district.” Elementary and middle schools were scored in the areas of Proficiency (Reading and Math - grades 3-8), Separate Academic Indicator (Science - grades 4, 7; Social Studies - grades 5, 8; On-Demand Writing - grades 5, 8) and Growth (Reading and Math - grades 4-8). High schools were scored in the areas of Proficiency (Reading and Math from the 11th grade ACT), Transition Readiness (Academic and/or Career Readiness by 12th grade), and Graduation Rate. In addition to giving scores for each indicator, KDE also identified the lowest performing schools in the state by labeling them as Comprehensive Support and Improvement (CSI) Schools. CSI schools are in the bottom 5% of schools at their level (elementary, middle, high) or had a graduation rate below 80%. 51 schools in Kentucky were labeled as CSI schools. Targeted Support and Improvement (TSI) schools were also identified. TSI schools have at least one student group performing as low as all students in CSI schools. There are 418 TSI schools in Kentucky. Schools that did not fall in the bottom 5% and did not have a student group performing as low as that bottom 5% were classified as Other. There are 803 “Other” schools in Kentucky. Districts were not given labels this year - only schools. The tables below show each school’s results for each indicator and their identification label. Scores are listed for all students, as well as the Free/Reduced Lunch and Disability with IEP student groups. As you can see from the tables above, Edmonson County had no schools that fell in the bottom 5% of the state. District schools labeled as TSI were identified for their Disabilities with IEP student group. This indicates that the student group within the school is performing as poorly as “all students” in CSI schools. Patrick Waddell, Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools said, “The TSI identification doesn’t mean that the school is low-performing. It means that there is an achievement gap between students with disabilities and their peers. This identification helps us see where our greatest needs are, and from that, we can begin to make plans on how to close those achievement gaps.” The tables below show the district’s scores at each level compared to the state average for each indicator. “While we can definitely see areas where improvement is needed, we also have a lot to be proud of,” Waddell said. “Proficiency scores are above the state average at all levels. We also compared our scores to other districts around the region and were pleased with how we performed in comparison. These are good things that we can celebrate.”
For more detailed information on the release of state assessment results, please visit Open House on KDE’s website. All data will be available later this year in the new online Kentucky School Report Card. Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
The murder investigation of a Todd County man has led to two Edmonson County arrests, among others, according to the Kentucky State Police. KSP said that on September 23, 2018, at approximately 4:39 PM, Troopers responded to a call of a suspicious vehicle on Stateline Road in Todd County. When Troopers arrived on scene, they said they discovered that Jerry Robertson, 47, of Guthrie had been fatally shot. Robertson was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Todd County Coroner's Office. During the investigation, KSP arrested multiple subjects in relation to the September 23rd death of Jerry Robertson, in Todd County. Faith L. Martin, age 22, of Wingfield was charged with one count of Complicity to Murder and one count of Tampering With Physical Evidence. Timmie J. Latham, age 36, also of Wingfield, was charged with one count of Complicity to Murder, and one count of Tampering With Physical Evidence. Both were lodged in the Hart County Jail. The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office assisted in the apprehension of both Martin and Latham. County Attorney Greg Vincent assisted in preparation of the search warrant that was executed by Troopers at the Wingfield residence. Daniel G. Westbrook, age 31, of Russellville, KY, was charged with one count of Murder and lodged in the Logan County Jail. Brandi M. Scruggs, age 26, of Guthrie, KY, is charged with one count of Complicity to Murder, one count of Tampering With Physical Evidence, and is lodged in the Logan County Jail. Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, September 25, 2018. The Honorable Judge Joseph B. Hines presiding. William Edward Nelson, Cultivate in marijuana- less than five plants. 1st offense. Guilty. Total fines and fees $458.00 Shawn L. Hayes, Owner permitting vicious dog to run at large. Guilty. Total fines and fees $284.00 Jared C. Sherrard, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Tampering with physical evidence. Pleaded not guilty. Preliminary hearing 10/9/18. Alex L. Perry, Theft of motor vehicle registration plate/renewal decal. Operating vehicle with expired operator’s license. Continue 10/9/18. Jordan Watt, criminal littering. Continue 10/9/18. Shaun Besau, Assault- fourth degree, domestic violence, minor injury. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 10/9/18. Lori A Knuth, Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Possession of marijuana. Continue 11/27/18.
Joseph Lee Montgomery Jr., Possession of marijuana. Continue 10/27/18. Samuel D. Lech, Failure to wear seat belts. Failed to appear. Jeffery Blake Alexander, Theft by deception- include cold checks, under $500, three counts. Guilty. Court costs $184.00 Christopher Brown, Possession of marijuana. Pretrial diversion. Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Pretrial diversion. Wesley D. Jaggers, Reckless driving. Operating on suspended/revoked operator’s license. Failed to appear. Sherry Diane Brown, Speeding 22 mph over limit. Operating on suspended/revoked operator’s license. Failed to appear. Darren Doyle, story and photo: Edmonson County Fiscal Court met on Monday, September 24, 2018 at the Edmonson County Courthouse. The dispute between Kevin Davis, owner of Mammoth Cave Horse Camp and Mammoth Cave National Park continued at today's meeting, with both sides making statements. A county resolution was passed but there's more to it than a county resolution, all of which can be read here. County Clerk Kevin Alexander discussed that the state election board is working to implement a new electronic sign in process that will eventually eliminate the paper books. Currently, voters show a photo ID then place their signature in the paper voting book under their name. Clerk Alexander said that one of the eight county polling places will implement an electronic system in the upcoming general election. In November, the Chalybeate precinct at South Edmonson will feature an electronic tablet system where voters will scan their photo ID then sign the pad with either their finger or stylus pen, the same type as you'd use when signing for a purchase at a retail store with a credit or debit card. Alexander said that the Chalybeate location was selected because one of the four poll workers there has some experience with the technology and that there were no school board elections in the precinct for this election, which might make things simpler. "Some of our older voters and poll workers will probably not like this at first, but we have to start implementing this," he said. He asked the court for an additional $60 to pay poll workers additional training on the new system, to which the court voted yes. District six magistrate Mark Woosley also brought the newly made sign for the next county memorial road, which is Denzil Bullock Road. The road will be dedicated to Private Raymond W. Bullock, who was killed in action during WWII. In order to qualify for the county to consider honoring a fallen soldier on a county road, some of the guidelines include: the fallen soldier must have been a resident of the county and lived on the particular county road for request, must have died in battle with documented proof of service provided, the sign dimension guidelines must be followed, and the county road department must be in charge of the sign installation. The vote for the Bullock Road dedication passed unanimously during the September 10, 2018 meeting and a ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, October 13, 2018 at 3pm. Road Report: Assistant County Road Foreman Greg Carroll gave a report in the place of Ray Page, who was on vacation. He said the department had picked up their new truck that was approved for purchase at the last meeting and that it had already been put to use. He added that crews had finished up the work on Carnes Road in the Richland Subdivision, which was funded by a grant from Governor Bevin's office, which Carroll said was completed under budget. Sheriff Report: Detective Wally Ritter gave the sheriff's report in the absence of Sheriff Shane Doyle. He reported that the sheriff's office was busy with fairgrounds patrol this week and other than one incident it was a quiet week. Det. Ritter said that the state overtime grant for extra patrolling will end at this month. During the grant period, which was May-September, deputies had been able to crack down on more DUIs, seat belt and child safety restraint violations, while providing extra patrol in various areas. He said the office has recently worked multiple theft cases where arrests are pending. Magistrate Clark Wood asked about an incident at the fair that involved a man that cut himself in public. Ritter said that no press release was made available on the issue because no one was charged with a crime and the incident involved an attempted suicide. He said the sheriff's office does not disclose information on attempted suicides or suicides. No official information on the incident was available from other emergency workers due to HEPA laws.
Jailer Report: Jailer Hank Vincent reported there were 21 county inmates currently lodged in the Hart County Jail. County Clerk Report: County Clerk Kevin Alexander also said the recent delinquent tax sale was held where 27 bills were sold for a total amount of more than $23,000. He said the amount was lower than normal but he felt like it was due to more people overall paying their taxes on time, which reduces the amount of delinquent taxes. He also reported that absentee voting begins Oct 9th. Chamber and Tourism Director Rhonda Clemmons reported that tourism met where an individual was seeking to bring more events in 2019 and that the tourism board is considering those. She also reported that tourism is still working on finishing their Trail Town designation where they have dedicated $12,000 to complete these projects. She announced the annual Chamber Golf Scramble, which is scheduled for October 4th. Rafferty’s will be featured as the lunch sponsor. November 29th will be the annual banquet, and she added that the new tourism web site (cavesandlake.com) and social media campaigns are going well. EMS Director Keith Sanders announced that local EMS has been awarded a $45,000k homeland security grant. He said the money will be used to purchase a new power lift stretcher for one of the ambulances that don't already have one. The court went into closed session to discuss the hiring of a new emergency management director. After the session, the court voted to appoint Terry Massey of Chalybeate to the position at a salary of $15,300. The court also:
The dispute between whether or not horses will be allowed on Houchin Ferry Road continued today at Edmonson County Fiscal Court as Kevin Davis, owner of Mammoth Cave Horse Camp returned to court to request the passing of a resolution that says the county recognizes horse traffic as part of normal road usage. While the resolution passed, it means nothing immediately with regards to the park's current law that states horses are not allowed on park roads. Mr. Davis spoke to the court again before a vote was called for on the resolution. "I would just like to respectfully remind you that you were elected by the people of Edmonson County to represent the interest of the people of Edmonson County, and the businesses in Edmonson County, not the interest of the National Park Service," he said. Davis led a discussion at the last meeting where he said the road was first closed “illegally” to horses and riders in 2010, despite a resolution passed by the county in 1945 that said the road would always remain available to the public for normal use. Davis said the first closure came under the direction of former MCNP Superintendent Patrick Reed. “He did it with no warning, no public comment, no input from anybody,” said Davis at the last meeting. “What this did, in effect, when he closed that road, was he took away two significant loop trails which were parts of the back-country trail system.” Mammoth Cave National Park Superintendent Barclay Tremble was also in attendance at today's meeting and was asked by Judge Wil Cannon if he had any comments. Supt. Tremble read a prepared a statement to the court. He said the main purpose of the statement was to discuss the current status of the road as well as the park's legal interpretation of the use of the road. He also said he first heard about a possible county ordinance discussing the usage of the road in the original Edmonson Voice article published on September 10, 2018. In the statement, he said he wanted to be very proactive in working alongside with Edmonson County Fiscal Court, the local chamber and tourism commission, as well as Mr. Davis and the horse camp, however, he clarified a portion of federal code by saying, "Per the 36 Code of Federal Regulations, equestrian use has been prohibited on all national park roads since 1938, which is prior to the park's establishment in 1941." "It is also not accurate to state that Houchin Ferry Road was closed to horse use in 2010," he continued. "It is not accurate to state that this road is part of the park's trail system. The park's 85-mile trail system is separately managed from the park's road system." Supt. Tremble said prior to 2010, there was very little horse usage on the road and that enforcement of the existing law was rarely needed; however, since the opening of the horse camp, horse traffic significantly increased which prompted better enforcement of the existing law. "The statement that certain roads inside the national park shall remain open for the usual use of the public was a unilateral promise that was made by the national park service," said Tremble. "Contrary to other descriptions given to this proceedings over the years, the promise was not a court order, it was not a settlement, it was not an agreement, it was not a condition on the title of the land, it was not initiated by the county or the Commonwealth. It is a unilateral promise made by the United States government." Tremble went on to say that the park has gone to great lengths to work with the horse camp to explain what they can and cannot do in the national park. "I can imagine a possible alternative, determined through the public process, that would reference changing the road designation that would allow for vehicle, bicycle, and equestrian use," he said. "Before that designation could be changed though, we would seek concurrence from this court, that the change would align with the promise made by the NPS many years ago." Judge Executive Wil Cannon said that his wish was that all roads in Edmonson County would be accessible to all traffic types, whether vehicle, bicycle, or horse use; however, any resolution that the county would pass would have no immediate bearing on whether or not horse traffic could be allowed on a road within the national park. He said he didn't want people to read in the news that a resolution had passed and that be misinterpreted as now horse usage had become legal on national park roads, because that would not be the case. He said the county's definition of what 'normal usage' of the road would be wouldn't matter to the park service. Magistrate Clark Wood asked County Attorney Greg Vincent for his input on the situation. Vincent said he took issue with some of the things stated by Superintendent Tremble.
"I have no reason to doubt you when you say it would be your intention to want to keep this open for the public use," Vincent said to Tremble. "But I've heard this said now from about five different superintendents during just my few years as County Attorney. I've seen road closed, after road closed, after road closed, and I know many roads that are on that list because I have a full set of papers from that lawsuit that were listed to be kept open for the usual use, and they're gated. They're barred, and that's definitely not the usual use. So, nothing personal against you, sir, but when I hear someone from the federal government and the park service tell me that we want to keep this open for the usual use, to me, that usually means there's going to be a gate put up across it." Vincent also went on to say that he took issue with Tremble's repeated statement that it was "a unilateral promise." "No it's not," said Vincent. "As an attorney who deals with contracts, who deals with deeds and lawsuits; when it's put into a judgement, it's not a promise of one party to do something. When a judge signs it, it's an order, it's a requirement." Magistrate Edd Rich said he felt like it would be advantageous for the county to agree to an ordinance defining the normal use of the road so that Superintendent Barclay could relay that back to the park service. Tremble said he was certainly open to that, but that there where several other road users that were against the horse usage and that park rules and regulations are written and enforced for the betterment of all users of the park, not just specific interests. After the discussion continued, Magistrate Johnny Brooks made the motion to accept the resolution defining regular use of the road to include horse traffic, which was seconded by Magistrate Joe Durbin. The motion passed; however, horse traffic is still prohibited on Houchin Ferry Road. This resolution only states that Edmonson County Fiscal Court opinion is that "the historical use is the logical definition of the usual use, and that the historical use in 1945 was by automobiles, animal drawn wagons, horseback riders, bicycles and pedestrians." The passing of the motion does not change the dispute between Mammoth Cave Horse Camp and the park service. It is unknown if and when a resolution between the two will occur. Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Fiscal Court appointed Terry "Moose" Massey as the new county Emergency Management Director today, after the resignation of former director Rob McGuffey was recently accepted. Massey has served in local emergency services in various forms for the past 35 years. "I want people in Edmonson County to be safe and I want them to feel safe," he said. "An emergency management director has to be prepared and that's what I want to be. I want to plan for the worst but pray for the best." "Moose," by which most locals know him, is an active member of both the Chalybeate and Brownsville Fire Departments and has worked for the Edmonson County Ambulance Service, the local rescue squad, the Richardsville Fire Department, and is a certified scuba diver. He also is a Fire Service Instructor and regularly teaches classes in that field. "I've tried to spend my lifetime helping others and this is another way for me to do that," he said. "I love it." Massey will assume his duties immediately. Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
An Illinois man has died as a result of a single vehicle accident this morning on I-65 in Hart County, according to Kentucky State Police. KSP reported that they responded to a single vehicle injury collision today at 9:58 am (CST) that had occurred southbound on Interstate 65 near the 66 mile marker in Hart County. According to a press release, the preliminary investigation indicated that Jerry Carter (56) of Harvey, IL who was operating a 2002 Jaguar passenger car, traveled southbound when his vehicle exited the right shoulder of the roadway. Upon exiting the roadway, the vehicle overturned, ejecting Carter before coming to final rest. Carter was not wearing a seatbelt, and was transported to the Medical Center Hospital at Caverna where he was pronounced deceased. The investigation is still ongoing and being conducted by Robert Hartley. He was assisted on scene by Master Trooper Timmy Jewell, Bonnieville and Munfordville Fire Departments, and Hart County EMS. Wet Weather Could Likely Bring This Year's Fair To Early End Darren Doyle, story: Moriah Peterson, photos: The weather was uncooperative on Saturday, September 22nd, which prompted the Bullwhip Rodeo, the 2018 Edmonson County Lions Club Fair finale, to cancel earlier today. Fair officials said the heavy rains in the morning hours were too much for the dirt arena ring at the fairgrounds and that unsafe conditions would be present for rodeo animals and participants. Rain throughout the day also made for unsafe carnival ride conditions so those activities were also cancelled for Saturday night. "We're not able to reschedule the rodeo right now," said Fair Board Chairman A.B. Webb. "There's a horse show already scheduled at the fairgrounds for next week. Unless the carnival can open one day this week, they will be finished."
Webb said the decision was ultimately up to Mark's Midway Amusements, the carnival contractor. If they experience any schedule conflicts then this year's fair is officially over. "Unfortunately, we can't do anything about the weather," Webb said. "We'd like to have one more night but it's out of our hands right now. The fair is scheduled for the same time each year and lots of other schedules have to fit together to make it all work. We'll make a final announcement as soon as we know." Webb said other than soggy weather, the fair had a good turnout once again this year. "We appreciate all the hard work our Lions Club volunteers put in for the fair, not just this week, but all year long," he added. "We also want to thank our local emergency workers for helping us throughout the week. It takes several organizations and volunteers to make the fair happen and we're thankful for everyone that helped this year." All proceeds from the fair help fund all the charitable causes that are sponsored by the Lions Club each year. No member of the Lions Club receives any payment. Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
The Edmonson County Lions Club has announced that tonight's Bullwhip Rodeo has been cancelled due to weather conditions at the fairgrounds. The organization is currently working on a reschedule date which will be announced as soon it becomes available. **UPDATE** 9/22/18 8:42AM** The carnival will be closed tonight as well. All fair activities tonight are cancelled. Darren Doyle, photos: Here are some of our favorite photos from today's fair day. Please enjoy the slideshow at the bottom. Moriah Peterson, photos: The 2018 Edmonson County Fair Parade took place Friday morning September 21st. Did your picture make it into our slideshow? Check it out below. Looking for the actual parade? Good news--we live streamed the entire thing! Click here to watch.
Did you miss the parade? Were you there but want to watch it again? Good news--we were there and we live -streamed the entire event! Check out the video below with commentary and see this year's winners at the bottom.
Stay connected to Edmonson Voice for a photo slideshow of today's fair parade watchers.
Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Congressman Brett Guthrie announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development office is awarding a $258,000 grant and a $1,032,000 loan to the Edmonson County Water District. This investment from the USDA will be used to construct approximately 4.5 miles of water lines that will interconnect with existing lines and to install new hydrants and leak detection meters. “I am excited to announce this water development investment for Edmonson County,” said Guthrie. “This grant and loan package will help connect 25 new customers to the water system and will improve service for more than 10,400 Edmonson County residents. This is great news for Edmonson County, and I congratulate the Edmonson County Water District on receiving this competitive award.” Darren Doyle, video: The 2018 Edmonson County Fair Demolition Derby was full of crashes, mud, and fun, with thousands of dollars in prize money for the winners.
This year's winners were: Mini Car Feature: 1. Justin Tuttle 2. Colton Oller 3. Austin Lindsey Big Car Feature 1. Kyle Skaggs 2. Chris Vanmeter 3. James Smith Consolation Mini Car 1. Adam Shake 2. Darrell Glenn 3. Kaitlyn Vanmeter Moriah Peterson, story and photos: The 2018 Edmonson County Fair Tractor and Truck Pull took place at the fairgrounds on Friday night September 15th. The event featured three sanctioned classes and one non-sanctioned with a winner in each category. The first class of the night was the 6000 LT Hot Farm Tractor class. Michael Rose from Ashland, Tennesse was named the winner. The second class of the evening was the 2.6 Diesel Trucks. Scott Willoughby from Winchester, Kentucky was named the winner. The final sanctioned class of the evening was the Super Modified 4WD Trucks class. Nathan Sewell of Georgetown, Kentucky was named class winner. Local competitor Tyler Wells, 19, of Brownsville competed in the non sanctioned class Friday night. He was the only person from Edmonson County to compete and came in second place in his class. Tyler has been competing in truck pulls for six years. Below is a slideshow featuring some trucks from the event. O.The 2018 Edmonson County Fair Baby Show, hosted by the Edmonson County Homemakers, took place Thursday night September 13th. The Baby Show has the following categories for both boys and girls: 0-6 months, 6-12 months, 12-18 months, 18-24 months, 2 years old and 3 years old. This year's overall winners are both from the Chalybeate community. Overall Boy Winner: Brantley Porter McCoy son of Ben and Shannon McCoy of Chalybeate. Overall Girl Winner: Layla Jane Massey daughter of TJ and Alex Jane Massey of Chalybeate. Boys 0-6 months category finalists: Winner- Liam Martin son of Brent and McKenzie Martin of Grayson County. 1st Runner Up- Sawyer Colt Doan son of Ashley Doan of Brownsville. 2nd Runner Up- Owen Sanders son of Haley and Kent Sanders of Leitchfield. Girls 0-6 months category finalists: Winner- Aria Vincent daughter of Erica and Dex Vincent of Oakland. 1st Runner Up- Jesalynn Self daughter of Maurica and Jessie Self of Brownsville. 2nd Runner Up- Harper Botts daughter of Bianca and David Botts of Brownsville. Boys 6-12 months category finalists: Winner: Kane Allen Johnson son of Courtney and Allen Johnson of Brownsville. 1st Runner Up: Jaxtyn Allen Stewart son of Bethany Richards and Cody Stewart of Pig. 2nd Runner Up: Emmett Haynes son of Ricky and Ashley Haynes of Roundhill. Girls 6-12 months category finalists: Winner: Layla Jane Massey daughter of TJ and Alex Jane Massey of Chalybeate. 1st Runner Up: Molly Taylor daughter of Andrew and Ashley Taylor of Cedar Springs. 2nd Runner Up: Emerie Kate Sosh daughter of Joey and Megan Sosh of Leitchfield. Boys 12-18 months category finalists: Winner: Branson Newton son of Randy and Tamara Newton of Leitchfield. 1st Runner Up: Heath Garmin son of Jeremy and Haley Garmin of Chalybeate. 2nd Runner Up: Jake Daniel Spainhoward son of Maria and Jeremy Spainhoward of Brownsville. Girls 12-18 months category finalists: Winner: Juliana Tennison daughter of Colton and Kristal Tennison of Brownsville. 1st Runner Up: Lily Ahna Doan daughter of Ashley Doan of Brownsville. 2nd Runner Up: Maci Kate Lindsey daughter of Kyle and Kisha Lindsey of Brownsville. Boys 18-24 months category finalists: Winner: Brantley Porter McCoy son of Ben and Shannon McCoy of Chalybeate 1st Runner Up: Colby Martin son of Andy and Kelsea Martin of Brownsville. 2nd Runner Up: Xzavier Neighbors son of Bryanda Neighbors of Morgantown. 3rd Runner Up: Samuel Mooneyhan son of Jeff and Cody Mooneyhan of Morgantown. Boys 18-24 Month Category Finalists From Left to Right: 3rd Runner Up: Samuel Mooneyhan son of Jeff and Cody Mooneyhan of Morgantown, 2nd Runner Up: Xzavier Neighbors son of Bryanda Neighbors of Morgantown, 1st Runner Up: Colby Martin son of Andy and Kelsea Martin of Brownsville, Winner: Brantley Porter McCoy son of Ben and Shannon McCoy of Chalybeate. Girls 18-24 months category finalists: Winner: Lily Grace Vincent daughter of Joshua and Katie Vincent of Segal. 1st Runner Up: Zoey Schulter daughter of Trisha and Ryan Schulter of Woodburn. 2nd Runner Up: Jalene Kirtley daughter of Lisa and Ryan Kirtley of Bremon. 2 year old boys category finalists: Winner: Ryker Liam VanMeter son of Amanda and Chris VanMeter of Chalybeate. 1st Runner Up: Zane Alexander VanMeter son of Amanda and Chris VanMeter of Chalybeate. 2nd Runner Up: Jace Self son of Maurica and Jessie Self of Brownsville. 3rd Runner Up: Baley Abel Phelps son of Jeremy and Teara Phelps of Sunfish Boys 2 Year Old Category Finalists From Left to Right: 3rd Runner Up: Baley Abel Phelps son of Jeremy and Teara Phelps of Sunfish, 2nd Runner Up: Jace Self son of Maurica and Jessie Self of Brownsville, 1st Runner Up: Zane Alexander VanMeter son of Amanda and Chris VanMeter of Chalybeate, Winner: Ryker Liam VanMeter son of Amanda and Chris VanMeter of Chalybeate. 2 year old girl category finalists: Winner: Mya Reese Kerr daughter of Amanda and Jason Kerr of Grayson County 1st Runner Up: Lexie Johnson daughter of Kendall and Haleigh Johnson of Grayson County. 2nd Runner Up: Khloe Marie Sosh daughter of Joey and Megan Sosh of Leitchfield. 3 year old boy category finalists: Winner: Levi Thomas Benter son of Matt and Megan Benter of Smiths Grove. 1st Runner Up: Ryan Saltsman son of Mathew and Ashley Saltsman of Leitchfield 2nd Runner Up: Silas Wayne Vincent son of Joshua and Katie Vincent of Segal 3 year old girl category finalists: Winner: Eryn Wink daughter of Matthew and Beth Wink of Edmonson County. 1st Runner Up: Annabele Meredith daughter of Savannah and Allen Meredith of Leitchfield 2nd Runner Up: Ada Marie Brown daughter of Adam and Brooke Brown of Morgantown The 2018 Baby Show was held at the Edmonson County Fairgrounds.
Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
The Edmonson County Water District has issued a boil water advisory for the areas of Dickeys Mill Road, Lakeview Manor, Twin Oaks Drive, and Hicks Road, effective September 13, 2018 due to a main line break. The announcement also said that the advisory will stay in effect until further notice and will be lifted as soon as water samples are safely approved. Should any additional information be needed, please contact the water district office at 270-597-2165. Smiths Grove, KY (September 12, 2018)- The Kentucky State Police Post 3 Bowling Green responded to a single vehicle injury collision today at 7:23 am (CST) that had occurred southbound on Interstate 65 near the 41 mile marker in Warren County, according to a KSP press release. According to the release, the preliminary investigation indicated that Elzie J. Prater (39) of Jeffersonville, KY who was operating a 2007 Chevrolet Aveo, traveled southbound in the right lane of Interstate 65 following behind a black sport utility vehicle. The SUV came to a sudden stop, causing Prater to swerve right to avoid a collision. Prater’s vehicle crossed the right lane and exited the shoulder of the roadway. Upon exiting the roadway, Prater’s vehicle traveled up an earth embankment, overturning several revolutions, before coming to final rest. A passenger, Elzie T. Prater, (biological father, 59 years of age) of Mount Sterling, KY was restrained with the passenger seat in a reclined position. He was ejected from the vehicle during the rollover event. He was transported to the Medical Center Hospital in Bowling Green, however he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased a short time later by the Warren County Coroner. The operator, Elzie J. Prater, was transported to the Medical Center Hospital in Bowling Green where he was treated and released.
The investigation is still ongoing and being conducted by Trooper Daniel Priddy. He was assisted on scene by Mammoth Cave Fire Department, Smiths Grove Fire Department, Med Center EMS, and Warren County Coroner’s Office. Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, August 7, 2018. The Honorable Judge Joseph B. Hines presiding. Kimberly Ann Deering, Possession of controlled substance, third degree- drug unspecified. Controlled substance prescription not in original container. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial conference 9/25/18
Larry D. Highbaugh II, Assault fourth degree, minor injury- no medical attention. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 9/25/18. Hollie J. Croslin, Speeding 17 mph over limit. Failed to appear. Bobby Kerr, Operating motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol/drugs. Careless driving. Failure to wear seatbelts. Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial conference 11/13/18 George W. Payne, Operating on suspended/revoked operator’s license. Failed to appear. Dennis Brewer, Possession of marijuana, guilty. Possession of controlled substance, third degree- drug unspecified, guilty. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess, guilty. Defer pay order and judgement signed. Aaron Pok, Possession of marijuana. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess. Continue on 9/25/18. Christopher Brown, Possession of marijuana. Drug paraphernalia- buy/possess. Continue to 9/25/18. John Robert Meredith, Theft by unlawful taking or disposition auto- more than $10,000 but under $1,000,000. Pleaded not guilty. Preliminary hearing 9/25/18. Vicky C. Wells, Harassment- no physical contact. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 10/9/18. Floyd Wayne Gibson, Assault fourth degree- minor injury. Continue to pretrial conference 10/9/18. County Offices Give Reports, Discuss Hiring of New Emergency Management Director Darren Doyle, story: Edmonson County Fiscal Court met on Monday, September 10, 2018 in the upstairs courtroom at the Edmonson County Courthouse. Road Report: County Road Foreman Ray Page said crews have worked on various projects to accommodate bus garage since the start of school and that the work had gone smoothly. He said county mowing crews had completed work on the north side of the county and several repairs and maintenance items have been performed on mowing equipment. The county later voted to purchase a new pickup truck for the department. Sheriff Report: Sheriff Shane Doyle discussed the felony theft arrest which he said turned out to be a stolen motorcycle case where two other fugitives were captured in process. He said that Grayson County Sheriff's Office was able to make a major drug arrests as a result of that investigation. He also discussed what he said was a good working relationship with all the surrounding law enforcement agencies, including Grayon's Sheriff, Norman Chaffins. He added that he was proud of his appointment by the governor to KLEC. Jailer Report: Jailer Hank Vincent reported that there were currently 21 county inmates housed in the Hart County Jail. He discussed an issue on one of their transport vehicles overheating. The court later discussed the purchase of a Dodge Ram truck for the jailer's use, but Sheriff Shane Doyle said the state contract price for a new vehicle isn't much more than what the budget amount was for a used one, which was $17,500. Magistrates agreed to wait until the next fiscal year to explore those options and Jailer Vincent agreed. County Clerk: County Clerk Kevin Alexander said his office is preparing for the upcoming General Election, which will be held on November 6th. The ballots have been approved and machines are being set today in preparation. He said that absentee ballots will be coming soon and encouraged those that will vote absentee to go ahead and request their ballots, so they will be sent as soon as they are available. He said there had been mail delays in the past. He concluded by announcing that tomorrow is the annual delinquent tax sale, which is scheduled for 11am in the old fiscal court meeting room. He said the Clerk's office will be closing at 10am for the sale and will stay closed for about an hour. Parks and Rec: Director A.B. Webb said that soccer is rolling along smoothly and the backstop project for the baseball and softball fields is still in works. He also said the horseshoe tournament finished this weekend under the shelter at Chalybeate Park. He reported vandalism at all three parks where troublemakers are stopping up toilets and causing damage. While cameras are installed, he said the angle of the cameras cause the frame to appear unclear and that different placement of the cameras or the addition of more cameras was in the works. The county also:
The court went into closed session to discuss the hiring of a new county Emergency Management Director since the resignation of Rob McGuffey, who left for family reasons. Two applicants are being considered: Mr. Terry "Moose" Massey, and Mrs. Ashley Ritter. Both have emergency service training in various fields. No decision was made today but the court agreed to discuss further at the next meeting, which is scheduled for Monday, September 24th at 9am. Motion Passes Unanimously Darren Doyle, story:
Magistrates voted today to honor Denzel B. Bullock Road in the Segal Community as the next county road to be memorialized for a fallen soldier. The county approved an ordinance back in the spring of 2018 that gives veterans' families the opportunity to memorialize a county road on which the fallen veteran lived by purchasing a road sign that would display the soldier's name, rank, branch of service, and other military related information. Bullock Road will be memorialized to honor Army veteran Raymond Bullock, who was killed by a German sniper in action while serving in WWII, according to Magistrate Mark Woosley, who read a portion of the fallen soldier's biography at today's fiscal court meeting. The first road to be recognized after the county ordinance was passed, was Noah Bledsoe Road, which was memorialized in honor of Elzie Sanders, JR., who was killed in action during Vietnam. In order to qualify for the county to consider honoring a fallen soldier on a county road, some of the guidelines include: the fallen soldier must have been a resident of the county and lived on the particular county road for request, must have died in battle with documented proof of service provided, the sign dimension guidelines must be followed, and the county road department must be in charge of the sign installation. Today's vote for Bullock Road passed unanimously and a ceremony is scheduled for *Saturday, October 13, 2018 at 3pm. *9/10/18, 4:47pm--this article was updated with a date and time with information from Magistrate Mark Woosley Darren Doyle, story and photo: One local businessman is asking Edmonson County Fiscal Court for their support in his ongoing disagreement with Mammoth Cave National Park in a park decision that he says is hurting his business. Kevin Davis, owner of Mammoth Cave Horse Camp says that the park has closed horse traffic on Houchin Ferry Road, specifically the north side of the river. Davis said the road was first closed “illegally” to horses and riders in 2010, despite a resolution passed by the county in 1945 that said the road would always remain available to the public for normal use. Davis said the first closure came under the direction of former MCNP Superintendent Patrick Reed. “He did it with no warning, no public comment, no input from anybody,” said Davis. “What this did, in effect, when he closed that road, was he took away two significant loop trails which were parts of the back-country trail system.” Davis said that the closure has caused a negative impact on businesses in Edmonson County and that normal usage for that particular road should (and according to the original ordinance, does) include horses and riders, being as it’s in the heart of the horse camp tourism area.
“I’m not here to ask Edmonson County Fiscal Court to join in any legal issues, spend any money, or get involved in any kind of a court battle,” Davis said. “But I am asking you to support the citizens of this county that ride horses in Mammoth Cave National Park, and the businesses in this county that rely on tourism dollars that are generated as a result of that, by adopting a resolution simply defining what the usual use of Houchin Ferry Road has been.” Davis said he’s attempted to work with three different superintendents of Mammoth Cave National Park over the past 8 years to reopen horse traffic on the road with no success. Magistrate Mark Woosley asked if Amish horse drawn carriages were allowed on the road and Mr. Davis said they were, because they were considered vehicles. Magistrate Joe Durbin asked about the amount of vehicle traffic that was normally seen on the road, and Mr. Davis said it was little to none since the ferry closed. Magistrate Edd Rich asked if the trails were still open and Davis said yes, but because the road is between two trails that form a loop, riders don’t want to take those particular trails. Judge Wil Cannon said he was in favor of passing a resolution that defined normal usage of the road to include horses and riders. The court agreed to examine Mr. Davis’ submitted resolution and vote on it in a future meeting. School Transportation Director Credits VOICE Article, Local Cooperation For Safer Bus Routes9/10/2018 Darren Doyle, story:
Lannie Deweese, Transportation Director of Edmonson County Schools thanked local officials at today's fiscal court meeting for making public statements regarding the crackdown on drivers that illegally pass school buses in an article published last week by The Edmonson Voice. "I appreciate our law enforcement, our officials, and our road department for always doing a great job and for what they do for us and the county," said Deweese. He also publicly thanked the Edmonson Voice for last week's article where Deweese discussed the dangers of these passing violations and how local officials are working together to ensure local drivers are obeying school bus traffic safety laws. Deweese asked County Attorney Greg Vincent the proper protocol when dealing with those that violate passing laws, which are now captured with cameras mounted on Edmonson County School buses. Vincent and Sheriff Shane Doyle discussed the procedure, which included the school bus garage contacting the Sheriff's Office' School Resource Officer. The officer will investigate and turn over to the county attorney for prosecution. "Our cameras are working great," said Deweese. "Our drivers say that the public has responded since the article. There were seven violations during the first ten days of school, but since the article, it has stopped for now." |
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