MAMMOTH CAVE, Ky. – Vehicle access to Joppa Church in Mammoth Cave National park will not be available on Thursday, September 30th due to continued paving work along West Entrance Road (KY-70). The work will take place between the intersection of Mammoth Cave Parkway and the park entrance near Brownsville between 6 am and 6 pm CDT. The temporary closure is necessary to ensure proper curing of newly paved roadway surfaces.
The temporary closure of the Turnhole Bend Nature Trail and parking lot will also be extended until October 9th. The road paving project involves roadway resurfacing, the hardening of road shoulders, and expansion or replacement of existing guard rails, and is being coordinated by the United States Federal Highway Administration and National Park Service.
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Darren Doyle, story and photos: A Mammoth Cave man faces alcohol-related charges after a rollover crash that took place today on Mammoth Cave Road (HWY 70). According to information released by the Kentucky State Police, KSP Post 3 received a request from the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office to investigate a single vehicle injury collision around 12:30PM today. Troopers responded to the scene of the collision located at 408 Mammoth Cave Road in Edmonson County where the driver, Billy J. Meredith, (37) of Mammoth Cave, was headed west in a 1997 Chevy pickup on Mammoth Cave Road when the operator lost control of the vehicle, KSP said. According to KSP, the truck exited the roadway which caused the operator to over-correct and enter back onto the road. The vehicle overturned and came to rest on its side. The driver was extricated from the vehicle by Edmonson County JAWS. Billy J. Meredith was transported by Edmonson County EMS to the Medical Center at Bowling Green where he was treated for minor injuries. Once medically cleared, Meredith was arrested and lodged in the Warren County Jail and faces the following charges:
The investigation continues and is being led by Trooper Katan Parker. He was assisted on the scene by Brownsville Fire Department, Edmonson County EMS, Edmonson County JAWS and KSP personnel. Subjects Accused of Fleeing Across I-65 On Foot, Eating Meth To Hide From Police Edmonson Voice Report: Three individuals were arrested after a vehicle and foot pursuit that started in Edmonson County and ended in Barren County Friday night. According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, on September 24th around 7:30PM, a deputy observed a Chevy Trailblazer on Louisville Road that was reportedly weaving with the driver not wearing a seat belt. The vehicle allegedly did not stop when a traffic stop was initiated and a pursuit began, the Sheriff's Office stated. Officials said that the vehicle accelerated down Ray Houchin Road, turned onto Fairview Church Road, then continued into Barren County where the Trailblazer allegedly passed two vehicles in no passing zones. The Sheriff's Office said that two female passengers jumped out of the back seat at an intersection. The Trailblazer continued to Harper Valley Road where it ran into the grass and the driver, identified as Ron Grider (42), and front passenger, identified as Savanna Acosta (34), both of Park City, fled on foot, the Sheriff's Office stated. Grider and Acosta allegedly disregarded multiple commands by law enforcement to stop and both suspects crossed the north and south bound lanes of Interstate 65 on foot, which almost caused several vehicle accidents, the Sheriff's Office said. Acosta then allegedly jumped into the back of a citizen’s vehicle and refused commands to exit. It was at this time a deputy with the Barren County Sheriff’s Office deployed his department issued taser, while other deputies went hands-on with Acosta to place her in handcuffs and remove her from the citizen’s vehicle, according to the Sheriff's Office. Law enforcement also stated they witnessed Acosta throwing a bag under the vehicle, which was later found to be suspected methamphetamine. While deputies were working to detain Acosta, officers with Cave City Police Department had arrived on scene to assist. It was at this time that Grider conceded his foot pursuit and was detained by a Cave City Police Officer until an additional deputy with Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office arrived to formally arrest him, the Sheriff's Office stated. Deputies with Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office searched the Trailblazer driven by Grider and located suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. The Sheriff's Office stated that both Grider and Acosta both admitted to eating methamphetamine in an attempt to “get rid of it.” Acosta was arrested and served a Monroe County Bench Warrant for absconding on felony theft charges. She was also charged by Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office for:
Grider was cited by Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office for:
Virginia Rodriguez (44) of Glasgow, identified as the second female passenger that jumped out of the Chevy Trailblazer during the pursuit, was later located at TJ Samson Hospital and was placed under arrest. She was served a Barren County Bench Warrant for Violation of Bond Conditions on felony drug related charges, and she was also charged by Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office for:
All subjects located, charged, and arrested from the pursuit were medically cleared at TJ Samson Hospital. Acosta and Rodriguez were transported to Hart County Jail. Grider was cited for the Edmonson County felony charges but denied booking by Hart County Jail due to being COVID positive. He was later arrested by Cave City Police Department and lodged in Barren County Jail on felony charges, as well as being served a Barren County Bench Warrant for failing to appear on felony drug charges. The Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, Barren County Sheriff’s Office, and Cave City Police Department. The Sheriff's Office said the investigation is ongoing with further charges and arrests pending. Darren Doyle, story: Magistrates voted at today's fiscal court meeting to hire Compass Municipal Advisors, LLC., a company that will help administer Edmonson County's handling of over two million dollars in funding received from the American Rescue Plan Act. Since the purposes for the money are highly scrutinized by the federal government, Edmonson County has yet to spend any at this time, mainly due to the vagueness of instructions from the government as to how and where the money can be spent. The funding is part of the $1.9 trillion economic stimulus plan that was signed into law on March 11, 2021. The plan earmarks $350 billion for state, local, and tribal governments for the purpose of lost revenue and other financial losses during the COVID-19 pandemic. If the county spends any of the funding not later approved by the government, the funding will have to be paid back. Compass Municipal Advisors is a company that will partner with attorneys and other legal experts that will guide the county through the process. The company claims they can ensure the spending will be government approved. Judge Wil Cannon said that each project will be submitted to the company and the company either approves or disapproves the purchase, based on their expertise of the law. Their commission would be three-quarters of one percent of the amount spent each time, not a percentage of the entire grant amount. The law firm of the company would also received a .75% commission, for a total of 1.5% commission of the county's purchases with the funding, or $1500 for every $100,000 spent. The company guarantees their administering of the spending. The county received half the funding in June of 2021, which is currently earning around $1000 per month for the county, and the rest is expected to come sometime next year. Road Report: Road Supervisor Greg Carroll reported tile installation throughout the county and said crews had been working lots of overtime, including Fridays and Saturdays (along with himself) to get caught up on the many projects that are ongoing. Emergency Management Director Terry Massey reported 28 emergency runs in in the last month and noted that as of Friday, there were 183 active known Covid cases in the county. He also said the county has current Covid vaccination rate of 36% so far. Sheriff Shane Doyle reported that he recently attended training at the state Sheriff’s Conference where he undergoes annual training. He said the recent fair only had one incident where law enforcement had to respond, where an individual was allegedly asked to leave who ended up having a current arrest warrant. His report today also included the shooting incident at Rocky Hill last week where he said he requested KSP for assistance due to the Sheriff's Office current shortage in manpower. He said he still has one officer out on medical leave for an injury. Judge Cannon reported that there are currently 20 county inmates lodged at the Hart County Jail. County Attorney Greg Vincent said he had been reviewing a draft of an inter-local agreement between Ohio, Butler, and Edmonson Counties for a proposed regional jail that Judge Cannon said could possibly be centrally located somewhere west of Morgantown. While the discussion is in its early stages, another jail possibility could bring more options to the fiscal court and would guarantee a place for county prisoners. Cannon said that even with an agreement with Hart County, as the county currently has, they still have the right to refuse prisoners. County Clerk Kevin Alexander reported that his office is up and running after a recent Covid shutdown. He said the crew went back to work last week and he was thankful to be back in the office. The annual delinquent tax sale had to be postponed as a result of the closure and is scheduled for Tuesday, September 28, at 11AM in the upstairs courtroom of the courthouse. Halloween in the Park has been set for Saturday October 30th at Chalybeate Park so people can spread out more than they can at the square and for more parking, Judge Cannon said. A proposed pay increase for County Road Supervisor Greg Carroll was voted down today as three magistrates voted no with two magistrates voting in approval. The increase would have raised Carroll's annual salary from $50K to $54K; however, only magistrates Edd Rich, who made the motion to accept the increase, and Johnny Brooks, who seconded, voted YES. Magistrates Mark Meeks, James Vincent, and Corey VanMeter voted NO. The motion failed. The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 12th (due to the Oct. 11th holiday) at 9AM and will be held virtually. Public Notice EDMONSON COUNTY FISCAL COURT
NOTICE OF REGULAR AUDIO/VIDEO TELECONFERENCE MEETING In accordance with KRS 61.823, KRS 61.826, Executive Order 2020-243, OAG 20-05, 2020 Senate Bill 150 and the March 31 Attorney General Advisory, the Edmonson County Fiscal Court will meet in session at 9:00 a.m. on September 27, 2021 to consider the following Agenda. The meeting will take place via audio teleconference due to the current public health situation with the fiscal court not meeting in person. The public may attend via audio by dialing: 1-312-626-6799, meeting ID 885 7446 3500, password 533613 or by going to the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84943329570?pwd=ZEtXNndJUm8rNE9RdUZtL3JSYnpWZz09 AGENDA 9/13/2021
Wil Cannon EDMONSON COUNTY JUDGE EXECUTIVE Victim Identified Darren Doyle, story:
Kentucky State Police are still investigating a shooting that occurred in Rocky Hill this morning around 10:30AM and the suspect is still wanted, according to KSP. In a press release, KSP stated that Post 3 received a request from the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office to investigate the incident that occurred at 1171 Rocky Hill Road in Edmonson County. KSP stated that a victim, 28 year old Brett Brady, of Rocky Hill, was identified with a gunshot wound to his arm. KSP said that Brett Brady had been in an altercation with his brother, 26 year old Cody Brady, of Leitchfield. During the altercation, Cody allegedly discharged a firearm which struck Brett. According to KSP officials, Cody left the scene prior to the arrival of law enforcement. Brett was transported to the hospital to be treated for his injuries. The investigation continues and is being led by Kentucky State Police Detectives. Trooper Daniel Priddy, KSP Public Affairs Officer, said that Cody Brady's vehicle, a silver 2000 Toyota 4-Runner, was found abandoned at 11266 Bowling Green Road in Barren County this afternoon. Cody Brady is a 6ft tall white male, weighing 150lbs, with brown eyes and black hair. He should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with knowledge of the whereabouts of this individual please contact Kentucky State Police, Post 3, at 270-782-2010. Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Earlier today, Kentucky State Police responded to the scene of a shooting that took place around 10:30AM at 1171 Rocky Hill Road, by request of the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. Trooper Daniel Priddy, KSP Public Affairs Officer, said Cody D. Brady, (26), approximately 6 feet tall and 150lbs with dark hair, is currently wanted in connection with the shooting. He is reportedly driving a silver Toyota 4-Runner with front end damage. Trooper Priddy said the victim was reportedly the suspect's brother, and was transported to the hospital and was listed in stable condition. Anyone with any information is asked to immediately call law enforcement. **UPDATE** 9/22/21, 12:23PM: THIS STORY WAS UPDATED WITH SUSPECT'S NAME AND DESCRIPTION: Trooper Daniel Priddy, KSP Public Affairs Officer, said Cody D. Brady, (26), approximately 6 feet tall and 150lbs with dark hair, is currently wanted in connection with the shooting. He is reportedly driving a silver Toyota 4-Runner with front end damage. Trooper Priddy said the victim was reportedly the suspect's brother, and was transported to the hospital and was listed in stable condition. Anyone with any information is asked to immediately call law enforcement. Darren Doyle, story and photos:
11:54am: Edmonson County Sheriff Shane Doyle confirmed that Kentucky State Police are on the scene of a shooting that took place earlier today at 1171 Rocky Hill Road. "The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office and Edmonson EMS secured the scene and we requested KSP to investigate," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. It is an active investigation and no other information is available at this time. We will have more as info becomes available. Conservation Partners Celebrate Green River Dam Removal (courtesy of The Nature Conservancy, photos: Mike Wilkinson) Roundhill, KY | Sept. 20, 2021 — Today, five conservation partners celebrated the largest dam removal in Kentucky history—the demolition of Lock and Dam #5 on the Green River. The Butler County event brought together The Nature Conservancy, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, and Kentucky Waterways Alliance. “Kentucky’s waterways form the backbone of our commerce, transportation, and recreation, but because of the Green River Dam – which sat unused since 1951 – that important natural asset was threatened. With the completion of today’s removal, we will finally return the Green River to its original, unimpeded state and reopen a crucial portion of the Commonwealth to boaters, sportsmen, and wildlife,” said U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell. “As Senate Republican Leader and a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I was proud to collaborate with local stakeholders to champion the 2016 Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act and subsequent appropriations measures for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that made this removal project possible. I look forward to continuing my work to provide Kentuckians with the clean, healthy, and free-flowing water infrastructure we deserve.” Green River Lock and Dam #5 was built in 1933-34 at river mile 168.1 for commercial use. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ceased operation of the structure in 1951. Since then, the structure has been unused, creating a pooled condition in the river with lower oxygen levels, more sediment, and higher temperatures – conditions that are detrimental for aquatic life and the overall health of the river. The dam also presents a barrier to boat traffic, and a public safety hazard. Removal will address all of these challenges. “Removal of Lock and Dam #5 represents a triple win – a healthier, more accessible, and safer Green River,” said David Phemister, state director for The Nature Conservancy in Kentucky. “The largest dam removal in Kentucky’s history, this project is thanks to the hard work and leadership of many folks over more than seven years. We thank all involved, especially Senator McConnell, for delivering this win to the river and the local communities.” The Green River is one of the most biodiverse rivers in the country, with more than 150 fish species and more than 70 species of mussels, including 43 endemic species—found nowhere else in the world. Imperiled species found in the Green River include nine endangered mussel species and one endangered freshwater shrimp (the Kentucky cave shrimp). The overall fishery will improve after the dam removal, including for highly sought-after gamefish such as smallmouth bass, rock bass, and muskellunge. “We are excited to partner with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and The Nature Conservancy on the removal of Green River Lock and Dam #5,” said U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Louisville District Commander Col. Eric D. Crispino. “This project will restore the natural flow to this portion of the Green River, the most environmentally diverse river in the inland navigation system, as well as support our ecosystem restoration mission. This project illustrates the concepts of partnerships and revolutionizing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, two priorities of the Chief of Engineers. The Louisville District is proud to be part of the partnership and we look forward to seeing the Green River free flowing again in a couple of months.” Removal of the dam was made possible and specifically called for in the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act or “WIIN,” championed by Senator McConnell in 2016. The $4.6 million dam removal is funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Fish Passage Program. Removal of the dam will restore free-flowing conditions to 73 miles of the Green River.
"Every time we remove one of these old structures, we're making connections,” said Leopoldo “Leo” Miranda-Castro, Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s South Atlantic, Gulf and Mississippi Basin Regions. “We’re connecting all sorts of species – fish, birds, plants and human beings – to a healthier environment. We’re connecting the river to its traditional path, too. As I mentioned when I last visited the site, it looks like a great fishing spot. So we’re connecting anglers to better fishing.” The dam removal began in late June and is expected to continue through October. The dam is being removed by experienced dam removal personnel at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Aquatic Habitat Restoration Team. Edmonson Voice Report:
A Wingfield man has been arrested and faces burglary and other charges after law enforcement said he entered into one woman's home, locked her out, and began damaging the property, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. In a press release from the Sheriff's Office, around 11:30 am on Saturday, September 18, 2021, law enforcement was dispatched to a residence on Upper Smiths Grove Road where the caller had reportedly run to her neighbor’s house to call for assistance after an unknown male had showed up asking to speak to a female unknown by the caller. The Sheriff's Office stated that when the caller returned to her residence after calling 911, she found that the unknown male subject had entered her home and locked her out. When law enforcement arrived, forced entry was made into the home and the subject was taken into custody, according to officials. The home reportedly had damage inflicted by the subject, who was identified as David Sidney Hughes (37) of Bowling Green, Kentucky. Hughes was arrested and charged with:
Hughes was lodged in Hart County Jail. The Sheriff's Office said that the investigation is ongoing with further charges pending. Bee Spring Man Arrested After Allegedly Attempting To Disarm Law Enforcement In Altercation9/20/2021 Edmonson Voice Report:
Two men were arrested after an altercation during a traffic stop on Saturday night, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. Officials reported that on September 18th around 8:53 pm at the intersection of Salem Church Road and KY HWY 259 North, a sheriff’s deputy initiated a traffic stop after observing a 2000 Infiniti traveling northbound with no license plate light. The operator of the vehicle was identified as Patrick Michael Ducey (43) and the passenger was identified as Erik Harley Anderson (28), both of Bee Spring, Kentucky, The Sheriff's Office said. Law enforcement was reportedly made aware of Anderson having an active Ohio County felony warrant and he was advised to step out of the vehicle, officials stated. Once outside the vehicle, a sheriff’s deputy reportedly attempted to place Anderson in handcuffs, but he fled on foot and crossed Salem Church Road into the yard of a residential property. The Sheriff's Office stated that a deputy successfully deployed his department issued taser, which caused Anderson to fall to the ground. Anderson did not comply with officers' commands, according to the Sheriff's Office, and Anderson then allegedly pulled the taser wires out of his body and attempted to flee again. Anderson was tased again, according to law enforcement, and as officers approached to detain him, he attempted to flee again. A sheriff’s deputy then attempted to use hands-on force to detain Anderson; however, Anderson allegedly resisted and reached for the deputy’s firearm. A second officer assisted the deputy in attempts to detain Anderson, but Anderson reportedly continued to resist, allegedly forcefully elbowing and striking both officers and reaching for their gun belts. Hands-on force, consistent with law enforcement training, was used to finally detain Anderson and secure him in handcuffs, the Sheriff's Office stated. Anderson was served the Ohio County warrant for failure to appear on charges stemming from drug offenses. He was also charged with:
Ducey, the driver of the vehicle Anderson was a passenger of, was arrested and charged with:
Both Anderson and Ducey were lodged in the Hart County Jail. Edmonson County Sheriff's Office was assisted on scene by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. "I first want to offer my sincere appreciation to the agencies and officers who assisted with both incidents," said Sheriff Shane Doyle, who was also referring to press release from his office referring to an altercation at the Edmonson County Fairgrounds earlier that evening. "With a small department like ours, we do not have the resources allocated to ensure a deputy always has back-up when responding to a call for service or initiating a traffic stop. Both of these calls resulted in physical violence against officers, one with a suspect trying to disarm a deputy, and while my deputies, first and foremost, must always depend on their training, I am very thankful for neighboring agencies willing and able to offer assistance, which in both cases, resulted in positive outcomes for all officers involved. Secondly, I want the citizens of Edmonson County to know we have zero tolerance for physical violence against law enforcement. My deputies are trained to peacefully and safely detain a suspect, but when use-of-force is needed to ensure my deputies or an assisting officer goes home to their families at the end of a shift, I will always support that." Edmonson Voice Report:
A Bee Spring Man has been arrested after a physical altercation with law enforcement at the Edmonson County Fairgrounds on Saturday evening, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. Officials reported that around 5:45 pm, an Edmonson County sheriff’s deputy responded to the scene after receiving reports that Elvis Lindsey (47) of Bee Spring, Kentucky, had had a verbal altercation with a member of the Lions Club about trespassing on fairgrounds property. While en route, the deputy received notice that Lindsey had an active Edmonson County Warrant for failure to pay fines associated with an emergency protection order violation, according to the Sheriff's Office. Law enforcement reported that when they arrived on scene and made contact with Lindsey, he reportedly became irate and combative after being made aware he was going to jail for the active warrant. Officers also reported that when they attempted to place Lindsey in handcuffs, Lindsey forcefully resisted officers to the point he had to be placed on the ground to be detained. After Lindsey was transported to Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office, he allegedly continued to exhibit irate behavior with verbal threats towards deputies, the Sheriff's Office stated. Lindsey was served with the Edmonson County Bench Warrant for Violation of a Kentucky EPO/DVO and was also charged with:
Lindsey was lodged in Hart County Jail. Edmonson County Sheriff’s Department was assisted on scene by Brownsville Police Department and Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. Edmonson Voice Report: On Thursday, Sept 16th, Edmonson County Sheriff's Deputy Austin Meredith was awarded the Medal of Valor from the Kentucky Sheriff’s Association. Deputy Meredith was nominated by Sheriff Shane Doyle based on his response to a recent domestic situation involving a 14 year-old juvenile armed with knives. According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, while being an obvious “deadly-force” encounter, Deputy Meredith was able to use great restraint and, knowing he had other officers on scene who had deadly-force cover, he deployed a taser, which disabled the suspect and allowed time to disarm the knife-wielding young man. For his poise during a very frantic and stressful situation, Deputy Meredith was selected out of many qualified candidates throughout the Commonwealth to be one of four deputies awarded this prestigious decoration. This was the third Medal of Valor earned by officers with the Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office in its history. “Every member of the Sheriff’s Office deals with dangerous situations regularly," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "Occasionally, a situation is so critical that it deserves a closer examination, and this call that our office responded to could have easily become an officer-involved shooting. It would have been clearly ruled as proper use of deadly force, but thanks to excellent training, good judgement, and intervention from the Good Lord above, it ended with minimal force and everyone being safe. I’m very proud to have Deputy Meredith on my staff.” Photos by Madison Doyle:
In case you didn't get a chance to attend or didn't watch the live video, here is a photo slideshow with all the entries in this year's Lions Club Fair Day Parade. The winners for this year's parade were:
Sponsored by Shauna Gravil Realtor, Cee Bee Food Store, Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce, and Mickey's Towing & Garage.
Editor Discusses Stice's Accolades, Time Spent Together On Road by Darren Doyle, Edmonson Voice Editor Jeff Stice, age 61, an award-winning gospel pianist and Edmonson County resident, has died from complications from a fall in his home on August 28th that resulted in serious neck and spinal injuries. Jeff was the son of (the late) Jimmy and Evonia Stice and began playing piano at an early age. He began playing for his father's quartet at the age of 15 and after graduating from ECHS in 1978, he went on to major in Piano Performance at Western Kentucky University. Shortly after, Jeff was offered a job with The Blackwood Brothers, where he played for the next four years. He then joined The Rex Nelon Singers on the piano where he received his first award, "Favorite Young Artist" by the Singing News Magazine. He would leave the Nelons to help form the award-winning male quartet Perfect Heart in 1990. The group's very first song, "Somebody Touched the Lord," went number one on the Singing News charts and would win "Southern Gospel Song of the Year" in 1990. Jeff would later hire me as a vocalist for the group in 1997. We traveled together until the group disbanded in 1999. In 2002 he was offered an opportunity from Louise Mandrell to put together a quartet for her theater in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, which led to Jeff helping form the award-winning Triumphant Quartet, as pianist, producer, and arranger for 12 years. Jeff also played in Louise’s orchestra on several occasions. JEFF STICE PERFOMING "I'VE GOT CONFIDENCE" (featuring Darren Doyle on backing vocals) During this twelve year span, Jeff was honored to receive a number of awards and nominations. He was voted Musician of the Year in 2007 by the Southern Gospel Music Guild and received Favorite Musician of the Year Award in 2009 and 2012 at The Southern Gospel Fanfare. In 2007 he was inducted into The Edmonson County Music Hall of Fame in Brownsville. In 2010 and 2011 he received Grammy and Dove Award nominations for the album "Love Came Calling," which he co-produced with Wayne Haun. He produced and arranged the album "Songs From the Heart" which was voted Favorite Album of the Year in 2012 for The Singing News Magazine. He also received the Musician of the Year Award by The Singing News Magazine in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012. He was most recently awarded AGM Musician of The Year. Jeff’s music allowed him to travel all around the United States and Canada as well as the opportunity to perform at the world-renowned Carnegie Hall on more than one occasion. Jeff moved back home to Edmonson County after his departure from Triumphant Quartet to spend more time with family and enjoy a solo career. Jeff gave me my first opportunity to be a professional musician and singer. As a 21-year old kid, Jeff took me under his wing and showed me how to be a professional. We didn't always see eye-to-eye, but I respected him not only for his amazing talent, but also for his grit, determination, work ethic, and competitive spirit that helped shape the person I am today. After Perfect Heart disbanded, Jeff and I lost touch for several years. While we shared a phone call here and there, I didn't really reconnect with him until he moved back to Edmonson County a few years ago. There, he and I would exchange studio work with each other, where he'd play piano on some recording projects I'd produce in my spare time, and I'd perform and arrange some backing vocals on his piano projects. He called to invite me to a Perfect Heart Reunion a couple years ago in Memphis and I chose not to go because of work and other commitments. Looking back, I wish I'd gone. Watch Perfect Heart Switch Parts and Perform "Have a Little Talk With Jesus:" Jeff Sings Tenor and Darren Plays Piano Three years ago, my youngest daughter, Alyssa, was scheduled to perform "God Bless the USA" at a veterans program at school. She was going to sing with a prerecorded soundtrack, but as she took the stage, the track malfunctioned and she was stuck on stage, scared, and alone. Jeff was in the crowd that day as his daughter was also performing. He knew who Alyssa was and he jumped on stage to the piano. He asked her if she knew in what key she performed the song, which luckily, she did. He played the song flawlessly, just like he'd done it a million times. She got a standing ovation and had no clue who he was. Afterwards, she thanked him for bailing her out and his reply was, "I was glad to help. I'm a friend of your dad. Tell him I owed him one." We'll miss you, Jeff. He is survived by his wife and children and funeral arrangements will be handled locally this week. The obituary will be published in the Edmonson Voice once available. Madison Doyle, story and photos: The annual Edmonson County Fair Baby Show, sponsored by the Edmonson County Homemakers, was held last night at the fairgrounds. The winners are listed below: Overall Girls Winner: Lyla Jane Massey Overall Boys Winner: Sawyer Colt Payne 0-6 Months Girls: Winner: Brynlyn La Sha Calvert, daughter of Ericka and Justin Calvert of Leitchfield. 0-6 Months Boys: 1st Runner Up: Jace Carson Basham, son of Angela Basham of Bowling Green Winner: Brantly Cole Skipworth, son of Tyler and Destiny Skipworth of Leitchfield 6-12 Months Girls: 2nd Runner Up: Remi Lynn Ellis, daughter of Jordan and Erica Ellis of Smiths Grove 1st Runner Up: Marley Raylynn Jones, daughter of Isaac and Julie Jones of Roundhill Winner: Claire James Donnelley, daughter of Brian and Paige Donnelley of Plum Springs 6-12 Months Boys: 2nd Runner Up: Easton Graham, son of Zachary and Abby Graham of Pine Grove 1st Runner Up: Liam Thomas Wood, son of Michael and Rayven Wood of Leitchfield Winner: Lucas Cole Vincent, son of Austin and Rachel Vincent of Bee Spring 12-18 Months Girls: 2nd Runner Up: Adalynn Beth Elmore, daughter of Faith and Nathan Elmore of Smiths Grove 1st Runner Up: Graelyn Lawrence, daughter of Logan and Amy Lawrence of Windyville Winner: Korie Hampton, daughter of Willie and Kristan Hampton of Big Clifty 12-18 Months Boys: 2nd Runner Up: Abel Neal Hennion, son of Ryan and Destinee Hennion of Cedar Springs 1st Runner Up: Isaac Frederick Peterson, son of Moriah and Jacob Peterson of Brownsville Winner: Brayden Cole Pedigo, son of Sidney Pedigo of Glasgow 18-24 Months Girls: 2nd Runner Up: Adalee Minor, daughter of Cherokee Brooks and David Lee Minor of Brownsville 1st Runner Up: Hadley Minyard, daughter of Kaitlyn Meredith and Carter Minyard of Chalybeate Winner: Erie Kate Johnson, daughter of Ryan and Taylor Johnson of Brownsville 18-24 Months Boys: 1st Runner Up: Connor Blair, son of Janna and Colton Blair of Lindseyville Winner: Rylan Hazelwood, son of Steven and Kristen Hazelwood of Brownsville 2 Years Girls: 2nd Runner Up: Laney Jade Basham, daughter of Angela and Josh Basham of Bowling Green 1st Runner Up: Raelynn Michelle Wood, daughter of Michael and Rayven Wood of Leitchfield Winner: Adeline Short, daughter of Matt and Crystal Short of Madisonville 2 Years Boys: 2nd Runner Up: Owen Ritter, son of Richey and Heather Ritter of Sweeden 1st Runner Up: Pierce Skaggs, son of Kelli and Kyle Skaggs of Oakland Winner: Benjamine Beach Peterson, son of Jacob and Moriah Peterson of Brownsville 3 Years Girls: 2nd Runner Up: Emerie Kate Sosh, daughter of Joey and Magan Sosh of Leitchfield 1st Runner Up: Molly Cole Taylor, daughter of Andrew and Ashley Taylor of Cedar Springs Winner: Lyla Jane Massey, daughter of TJ and Alex Massey of Chalybeate 3 Years Boys:
2nd Runner Up: Kane Allen Johnson, son of Allen and Courtney Johnson of Brownsville 1st Runner Up: Mason McEntire, son of Crystal McEntire of Brownsville Winner: Sawyer Colt Payne, son of Ashley and Robert Payne of Brownsville The awards were given by Mia Cris Holland, Miss Teen Edmonson County. Masks Required Until October 22, 2021 Darren Doyle, story: The Edmonson County Board of Education voted 3-1 to continue mask requirements in Edmonson County Schools until October 22, 2021. The decision comes after Governor Andy Beshear's statewide mandate was scrapped by Kentucky lawmakers on Thursday of last week. Beshear vetoed the passed bills, but those vetoes were immediately overturned by legislators. That decision-making power was given back to local schools in Kentucky; however, nothing will change in Edmonson County for now, regarding masks. In a statement sent to teachers, Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander discussed the outline of the school board masking decision, which included the following:
"I would like to point out that the new plan's incident rate will be based on positive cases of staff and students in each building," Alexander said in the statement. "Quarantines will not factor into the incident rate. The COVID dashboard on the Edmonson County School's District home page will be updated to show where each school stands in relation to the 2.5% incident rate." Edmonson County School's District COVID dashboard is updated daily and can be viewed here. As of today, September 14, 2021, the incidence rate at all of Edmonson County's schools are below 2.5%. All other neighboring school districts have followed suit with their own mask requirements, several with no listed options for going maskless. The KDE mandate will remain in effect until the end of this week. "We're the only district around trying to do anything like this," Alexander told the Edmonson Voice. "All other districts are masking for foreseeable future or they've set a date of October 22nd, which is two weeks after fall break. The break was problematic this year and we're afraid it will be this year as well." Alexander also said the staggered schedule used last year is also no longer an option for local schools this year. The entire adopted COVID-19 Operations Plan for Edmonson County Schools is published below. Edmonson County Schools Covid-19 Operations Plan (Approved 9/13/21) Introduction
Face masks inside school building
Quarantine
Procedures
Test to Stay Program
Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI) Days
Remote Learning Days
KY Lawmakers Shoot Down Beshear's School Mask Mandates: Local Schools Currently Working On Plan9/13/2021 Darren Doyle, story:
Kentucky lawmakers shut down Governor Andy Beshear's mask mandates in schools after a special called session by the Governor last week. Lawmakers also banned any sort of statewide mask mandate. In his Friday press conference, he said if he still had the authority, he would implement a masking mandate for indoor settings, because he said masking works. He encouraged school districts to require masks in schools. "They (the legislature) went to the Supreme Court and said that I, the Governor, shouldn't making those calls, they should be making the calls. They are the policy-making body," said Beshear. "The Supreme Court agreed. So, the legislature owns this pandemic moving forward." Edmonson County Superintendent of Schools Brian Alexander said in a statement on August 23rd, "As I have stated before with Governor Beshear’s masking mandate, our Board and I would prefer local control in terms of what is best for Edmonson County." Alexander told the Edmonson Voice this morning that the school system is currently working on the course of action that will be taken in local schools. He also said that information will be released soon. Beshear said whatever results occur from this decision fall "squarely on the shoulder's of the legislature." "The masking decision that the general assembly made was wrong," Beshear said. " Beshear vetoed two bills from the legislature but those vetoes were overridden by lawmakers. Church Pleads For Return With No Questions Asked Darren Doyle, story:
Wingfield United Baptist Church is pleading for the person or persons responsible for taking a small safe with historic church documents to return the documents to the church. Keith Saling, clerk for the church, said the safe was taken from the church recently. He said he noticed it when he needed some documentation regarding a former member's family. He said the only items in the safe were church minutes and other documentation from the church dating back to 1935. There are no other copies of these documents. "This is really important to us," said Saling. "No doubt, whoever took it thought it had money in it, but all that was in there were these documents. We're just sick over it. Hopefully, the documents weren't destroyed and we just want them back. If anyone has any information on this or if you can get these back to us, they'll be no questions asked. We just need these back." Saling said there was no sign of forced entry at the church, but it's common for area churches to be unlocked shortly before a service starts, or he said it's possible someone used a credit card or other non-destructive means of gaining entry to the church without being noticed. Anyone with any information can contact Keith Saling at 270-799-3196. Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Fiscal Court met virtually on Monday, September 13, 2021. Various offices gave their normal reports with County Clerk Kevin Alexander discussing the sudden closure of his office, which was announced earlier this morning due to quarantines and COVID-positive cases, including himself. He said another staff member tested positive over the weekend and the only choice they had was to temporarily close. This affects the scheduled delinquent tax bill sale that was originally scheduled for Tuesday, September 14th, which has now been rescheduled for Tuesday, September 28th. He noted that delinquent taxes can still be paid up until the morning of the 28th. Judge Executive Wil Cannon said he had recently recovered from COVID and wished the clerk well. Magistrates also voted to reject the CDBG bids for a new Lincoln Fire Department Substation. According to the Judge Executive's Office, in order to accept the CDBG grant in the amount of $500,000, the substation will have to be built to specs that are far above what the fire department feels is feasible for the structure and with only selected contractors. Bids have come in anywhere from $775K and up, which would require the fire department to come up with an additional $225,000, something that is not doable at this time. The Judge Executive's Office said that Lincoln's plan is to simply build the substation themselves without a grant. Magistrates also voted to:
The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 27th at 9AM and will be held virtually. Edmonson Voice Report:
Edmonson County Clerk Kevin M. Alexander announced that the Edmonson County Clerk's Office will be closed the entire upcoming week, September 13-18, due to multiple Covid-19 positives in the office and staff exposures. "The health and safety of our staff, along with the public we serve, will always be a priority" said Clerk Alexander. "This is not something we can help. Our crew enjoys being open and waiting on our citizens. We're going to have to allow everyone to get better and clear quarantine for right now. Fortunately, it's the middle of the month and a bit slower time in our office." The upcoming delinquent tax sale of unpaid property taxes, set for this upcoming Tuesday, September 14th at 11:00 am, will also have to be rescheduled to a later date this month. "Unfortunate timing regarding this as well. I will be contacting the state to get another date as soon as possible" said the clerk. Clerk Alexander said he is remains optimistic that things can again return to some sort of sense of normalcy. "We've only been closed two days due to Covid up to this point" Clerk Alexander noted, but "this last year and a half have been tough on everyone. Our staff loves waiting on our people. That's really what this office gets to do that most of the others do not. With Covid, it's been such a difficult thing for our community, our state, and our entire country. I hope and pray things get better soon for everyone." Any questions related to the office may be sent via email to Kevin. [email protected]v. The clerk says he will be checking his email numerous times daily from home, Darren Doyle, story and photos: A good crowd was on hand at the first event hosted at the fairgrounds for the 2021 Edmonson County Lions Club Fair, which was the Bullwhip Rodeo from Celina, Tennessee. Dale Burton, Arena Director for the Bullwhip Rodeo said the goal for their program is to provide a good family show. "We like to include a little bit of everything in our rodeo," he said. "Everything from the little kids, all the way up to the cowboys riding the big bulls. We want to try to include something for everyone. And I believe we have a good, fair rodeo for our competitors." PHOTO SLIDESHOW The event started with a tribute to America and the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers in New York City on the 20th anniversary of the event as a rider made several laps around the arena with the American Flag.
The event included mutton riding for the little kids, which is always a fan-favorite at the rodeo. Small ones clung to sheep as they were released from the pen, some lasting longer than the 8-second requirement for the bull riders. Also for the kids was cattle wrangling, where kids had the opportunity to chase down calves with a pink ribbon tied to their tails. Prizes were offered to the kids that could grab the ribbons. There was also a stunt rider who rode laps upside down as well as standing up, barrel racing for both rodeo and local riders, a steer wrangling event for any team of three that could wrestle a steer and ride it for a required amount. There were also two different calf roping events, one for solos and teams, and the final event of the evening was the bull riding. The Edmonson County Fair will continue Monday, September 13th with the Baby Show that will be hosted at the fairgrounds. Victims Speak Out On Ordeal Darren Doyle, story: Two 18 year-old men have been arrested and are accused of stealing cars right out of local owners' driveways, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. Local authorities were notified by Jeff and Holli Doyle of the Cedar Springs community that a vehicle belonging to them had been stolen out of their driveway during the early morning hours of September 9th. The Doyles said that they were nearly run over as they attempted to stop the subjects. "Our daughter came running in to tell us that her car was just stolen right out of the driveway," said Jeff Doyle. "Me and Holli jumped up and took out after them and they would have got away but they took off and went down a dead end so they had to turn around. We tried to stop them but they drove on by and almost ran us over. They took another dead end road and that's when we knew they wasn't from around here. Holli had grabbed the car and I just jumped in and we followed them through Pig. I called the law and told them where we all were. We followed them through Brownsville, then Midway, and then Deputy Jordan Jones started in about Sweeden Church. That's when we turned around and let the law handle it." An Edmonson County deputy along with the District 5 Constable attempted to make a traffic stop on the vehicle, which appeared to be accompanied by two more in the same group, the Sheriff's Office said. The vehicles fled from law enforcement, reaching speeds of over 100 mph in their attempt to evade police and two of them crashed shortly after the pursuit entered into Grayson County. The drivers allegedly fled the scene before officers could reach them. The Sheriff's Office said that the vehicles were identified as a Ford Fusion belonging to Jeff and Holli Doyle, and a Kia Optima belonging to Joey and Dee Dee Webb of Brownsville, which was also stolen. Assisted by the Grayson County Sheriff’s Office, officers located the suspects' cell phones in each stolen vehicle. Joey Webb said his Kia was unlocked and the key was in the console, which he said wasn't a usual scenario at his house. "That sure made it an easy target," he said. "Thankfully, our car was recovered and the criminals were apprehended, but not before the car was totaled. Things can be replaced, but people can’t, so we are very blessed. It could’ve been much worse." Later that morning, officers with Leitchfield Police located a young Hispanic male at the FiveStar gas station in Leitchfield that had marks consistent with airbag burns. After being interviewed, the suspect, identified as Edwin Leoset Carrillo, 18 of Louisville, was determined to be the operator of the stolen Kia. He was arrested and lodged in the Hart County jail. He also confirmed to the Sheriff’s Office that the crew had been responsible for multiple vehicle break-ins throughout the night, the Sheriff's Office stated. At approximately 4:30 pm, officers with Leitchfield PD made contact with another Hispanic male at the Walmart in Leitchfield. This suspect also showed minor injuries consistent with a vehicle crash, and after further investigation, it was determined that he was the other missing suspect from the theft of the Ford Fusion, the Sheriff's Office stated. He was identified as Victor Escobar, also 18 of Louisville and was also arrested and lodged in the Hart County Jail. Carillo was charged with:
Escobar was charged with:
“I want to send a huge thank you to all agencies involved," said Edmonson County Sheriff Shane Doyle. "Without the help of the Grayson County Sheriff’s Office and Leitchfield Police, it would have been difficult to apprehend these suspects so quickly and efficiently. I’ve worked years as your sheriff building these relationships, and times like these is when it really pays off. It’s a pleasure working with such professionals and serving our citizens.” Webb shared his frustrations with working hard only to have his property stolen from criminals. "It is a shame that you can live in a decent community, but out-of-town thugs will come in and steal your property that you’ve worked so hard to get," he said. "My wife, Dee Dee, worked a second job to make the payment on her car, only to have it stolen by some low-life thief. I highly encourage everyone to keep their cars and personal belongings locked at all times and invest in some security cameras." Webb wanted to extend his family's thanks to Edmonson County Sheriff Shane Doyle and his office for their work with the Grayson County Sheriff and the Leitchfield PD, and also to Deputy Jordan Jones and Jeff and Holli Doyle for their quick actions. Both the stolen vehicles were totaled in the police pursuit. "I'm so glad of our law around here because they do such a good job," said Jeff Doyle. "I'm glad nobody got hurt. I just tried to defend my place the best we could, it all just happened so fast. I didn't even have any shoes on. Thankfully our law caught them and hopefully it keeps somebody's else's property from getting stolen." |
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