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Edmonson County's Number One Source For Local News and Information
 District Court Docket for Tuesday, October 28, 2014
The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding Donavon B Glass, Criminal Mischief, 1st degree, Failure to notify address change to dept of transportation. Pleaded not guilty, appointed an attorney, pretrial hearing for 11/25 @ 10am. Phillip Meredith, Disorderly conduct, 2nd degree, Fleeing or evading police 2nd degree, Alchohol intoxication in a public place. Pleaded not guilty, Pretrial conference scheduled for 11/25. Travis Cline, Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, 1st offense. Rescheduled for 11/18. Court cost $143.00. Laura O Boggs, Speeding, pleaded guilty, sentenced to traffic school., court cost $143.00. Adam T Madison, Speeding. Failure to notify address change to dept of transportation, proof show, dismissed without prejudice. Reckless Driving, pleaded guilty, fined $50 plus $143.00 in court cost. Tyler L Hoff, Speeding. Continued to 11/25. $143 in court cost. Jeremy Scott Keown, Speeding, Failure to appear. $143 in court cost. Lisa Michelle Elkins, Speeding, Failure to appear, $143 in court cost. Andrea Nicole Boswell, Speeding, Failure to appear, $143.00 court cost. Kathleen M Blair, Speeding, Failure to appear, $143.00 court cost. Nicole L Combs, speeding, Failure to appear, $143.00 court cost. Jeffery Dean, Theft by deception including cold checks under $500. Failure to appear, bench warrant served. $184.00 court cost. Nicholas R Sanders, 4 counts of Theft by deception including cold checks under $500. Pleaded not guilty, Pretrial conference scheduled for 11/25. Court cost $184.00. Nicholas R Sanders, 4 additional counts of Theft by deception including cold checks under $500. Pleaded not guilty, Pretrial conference scheduled for 11/25. Court cost, $184.00. Sarah E West, Harassment (physical contact, no injury) Appointed attorney, pleaded not guilty, Pretrial conference 11/25. Court cost $184.00. Sarah E West, Disorderly conduct, 2nd degree, Deferred for 6 months with no direct or indirect conduct with the victim. Harassing communications, deferred 6 months. Court cost $184.00.
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 It's that time of the year again, when all the little Avengers, zombies, ghosts, and goblins come knocking on your door, holding up a bag, not saying anything and expecting you to drop candy in their bags. Not to mention the weird adults who are in costume that think it's cool to trick-or-treat. Ok, that may be a bit harsh, but you know what we mean...It's Halloween! The Sheriff's Department has some tips to help you have a fun and safe evening. Remember, it's all about our kids making memories and stuffing their faces with all the candy that can be handled! 1. Remember, there will be lots of children out and about this afternoon. Be extra careful and watch for children crossing the road and walking down the side of the street. 2. Only visit people that you know when taking your children trick-or-treating. Family, friends, and local businesses are excellent places to visit. 3. Unfortunately, we have our fair share of mischief to happen on Halloween weekend. The sheriff's office recommends that you try to get in early and be extra careful if driving late at night. 4. Finally, remember that there will be extra law enforcement present this weekend to ensure the safety and security of the county. The Sheriff's office takes property damage and acts of mischief on our roadways very seriously, and we are working extra hard to protect and serve you during this holiday.  AREA TRUNK-OR-TREATING
A popular trend these days is trunk-or-treating. This usually occurs in a large open area like a parking lot, where vehicles loaded with candy and treats open their trunks and hatches. Trick-or-treaters simply go from car to car, loading up on goodies. This year, be sure to stop by: Chalybeate Fire Dept. from 5-7pm Brownsville Missionary Baptist Church The Community Church at Cedar Springs 5-6:30pm Kyrock Fire Department (no trunk-or-treat, but will be passing out candy) Lastly, send us photos of your kids' costumes! We'll put a slideshow together of EC's Halloween Highlights. Have fun, and eat all the candy you can hold...plus some! The Edmonson Voice has had a ton of emails asking us to do a feature on the Judge Executive's race, which is just over one week away on Tuesday, November 4th. We reached out to both candidates, Democrat Bobby Thornhill, and Republican Wil Cannon, and gave each of them the opportunity to address our readers. We asked them to tell you why they're each seeking your vote and to discuss their respective platforms. Each candidate was eager to talk with us, so we're passing it along to you.  From Bobby Thornhill: "I have said from the beginning I want to work hard for all of Edmonson County! I see an opportunity to move the county forward with new ideas and new energy. I have a business and marketing background that I feel strongly will be beneficial to Edmonson County. I want to focus on jobs and economic progress without sacrificing our outstanding quality of life. Edmonson County lacks vision and cooperation. As a small county we have to share common goals and work together. Our community lacks synergy. The county needs a vision and a leader to bring elected officials, businesses, schools and families together. If elected I would bring an intelligent, bi-partisan, dedicated group of citizens together to develop a comprehensive plan for Edmonson County. It’s not about change it’s about a plan, our county needs to be on the same page, and have a united vision. I will focus on job development, emergency services, parks and recreation, small business, agri-business, tourism and transportation to improve the future for our children and grandchildren. Once again I will work hard for all of Edmonson County, not just a select few."  From Wil Cannon: "The County Judge Executive is the head of the executive branch of the county government and a member of the fiscal court. I've attended fiscal court meetings for over four years and understand the issues facing Edmonson County. I’m a moral conservative and believe that an elected official should be 100% dedicated to the office they hold and should always remain fiscally responsible. I’ll work to be accessible and responsive to Edmonson County. My job will be to find ways to fund or resolve the issues that we face. I’ll continue to work with our magistrates as I have in the past. I’ll work with the Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Board, and the Industrial Authority to find ways to improve our local economy. I’ll also work hand-in-hand with the City of Brownsville as well as the Agriculture Extension Agent. I wish to see our Fire Departments, Ambulance Service, Sheriff’s Office, and the Jaws of Life provide the best emergency services possible. I’ll also seek to improve our local Parks and Recreation Programs, working with our Park Director. Selfless service, integrity, honor, team work, and leadership matter to me. I’ll do everything I can to keep Edmonson County the best place in the world. Soon we’ll have the most cooperative local government that we’ve had in a long time, and for the betterment of our county, I want to be part of it." The Edmonson Voice would like to thank both candidates for their cooperation and for taking the time to speak with us. We'd also like to remind you that voting is one of the greatest privileges we have as Americans, and it's our duty to do so. There are other important local races in the upcoming election that effect us all. No matter who you choose to vote for in this and other races, just make sure you vote on Tuesday November 4th. Your vote counts and it does matter.
Judge Executive N. E. Reed addresses the crowd. Close to 300 people were in attendance at the (photo by W. Ritter) ceremony. (photo by W. Ritter)
It was an emotional night for current Judge Executive N.E. Reed as many of his friends, family, and colleagues gathered for a retirement celebration in his honor. The event was organized by the Edmonson County Public Library last Thursday night to give thanks to Judge Reed for his 21 years of service as Judge Executive. "It was far beyond anything I could ever have expected." Reed said. "To have local folks plus people from Paducah to the far eastern part of the state, as well as Frankfort...I was most gracious." People in attendance had a good time while "roasting" Judge Reed, giving some playful jabs, making jokes, and enjoying the food and fellowship. The Edmonson County Public Library Building was named "The N.E. Reed Complex" as a thank you for Reed's role in bringing the new facility to Edmonson County. A video presentation was given that featured many moments from Reed's tenure as Judge Executive. "I really appreciate the people of Edmonson County supporting me these 21 years. I never thought about being able to serve this long," Reed said. "All I can say is, that I always did what I thought was the best for Edmonson County." When asked how he'd summarize his time in office, he replied, "I hope that people can see the progress that was made through the cooperation of the other elected officials and the fiscal court. I didn't do it...it was a cooperative effort from everybody." Edmonson Voice Staff  District Court News, Docket from Tuesday, October 21, 2014
The Hon. Renona Carol Browning Presiding Joshua T. Irvin, Speeding, pled guilty. Court cost of $143. Operating on suspended/revoked operator’s license, proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. Failure to produce insurance card, proof shown, dismissed without prejudice. Roger D. Stevenson, Violation of Kentucky EPO/DVO, pled guilty. Sentenced to 10 days in jail, probated for 2 years. Court cost of $184. Matthew D. Bell, Violation of Kentucky EPO/DVO, pled not guilty, Pre-trial conference for 11/18/14. Veronica Leigh Meredith, Speeding, dismissed without prejudice. Megan Roof, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs, 1st offense, pled guilty. Sentenced to 30 days in jail, suspended for 2 years, License suspended for 60 days. Total fines and court cost: $728. Omie Jessie, Leaving Scene of Accident/Failure to Render Aid or Assistance, pled guilty. Total fines and court cost: $384.  Ford Ranger driven by Mandy Reynolds (photo by Shawn McCombs) Edmonson Voice Staff
Shawn McCombs, Contributor A two-vehicle accident involving a school bus occurred on South Main Street in Brownsville this morning. Mandy Reynolds, driving a Ford Ranger pickup, was traveling north and had stopped to turn in her driveway on Main Street when she was hit from behind by Edmonson County School Bus #221. Kentucky State Police reported that the driver of the bus was Marilyn D. Wells of Brownsville. KSP also said that no injuries were reported and that there were no passengers on the school bus. Lannie Deweese, Director of Transportation for Edmonson County Schools, said that there was very little damage to the bus and that the bus driver was fine. Ms. Reynolds said that her small pickup suffered quite a hit. "You can imagine that the impact of the school bus felt anything but light. I was wearing my seat belt, though, and I feel fine," she said. "The bus driver was very cooperative. She asked if I was okay and called dispatch right away." Edmonson Voice Staff
Darren Doyle, Photos There were lots of laughs, corny jokes, and outlandish stories shared this morning at the Dairy Queen, but that was before any politicians arrived. The local restaurant had a good number of coffee drinkers in attendance this morning as Congressman Brett Guthrie stopped in to chat with Edmonson County citizens. Guthrie moved from table to table, answering various questions and discussing upcoming elections with voters. "We're visiting 21 counties and I want to make sure that anyone who has a question has a chance to let their voice be heard," the Congressman said. "The overall theme of what I'm hearing is simply, concern. They know that ISIL is gaining ground, the air strikes don't seem to be working, people are disappointed how the Ebola situation has been handled, the economy is drifting, and people are still worried about the (President's) healthcare bill," he said. "People just have a unease in the general direction that the country's going." Both democrats and republicans were on hand and shared many lighthearted moments with the Congressman. Everything from college football to favorite Sunday School teachers was discussed, as the coffee makers were pushed to the limit. Kaylee Carnahan, a spokesperson for Guthrie's campaign also attended the stop. "With some stops we make, like this one, we just want to have a cup of coffee with people and chat about what's going on in the district," she said. The congressman was asked by Bill Canty about his relationship with the soon-to-be-retired Judge Executive, N.E. Reed. "Judge Reed has been great," Guthrie said. "Because Mammoth Cave National Park is in Edmonson County, Judge Reed has had a number of federal issues to deal with as well as the county issues. We've always had a good working relationship with Judge Reed and wish him nothing but the best." PAID ADVERTISEMENT Mimi's Gift Gallery, located on old Chalybeate Road, is celebrating their 4 year anniversary this week with a 25% Off Everything In The Store Sale. The store offers a little bit of everything, including men's and women's jewelry, custom made items, personalized gifts, scarves, handbags, accessories of all types, UK gear, local music, Duck Commander merchandise, and the list goes on and on. Owner Debbie Doyle says she can't believe it's already been four years. "Where does the time go?" she said. "It seems like we just opened up and now we're celebrating four years! We want to let our customers know how much we appreciate them by offering 25% off everything in the store, and we've got something for everyone. Hopefully, we'll celebrate with a bigger sale on our next anniversary!" The sale is happening now through this Saturday, Oct 25. Mimi's Gift Gallery is open Wednesday, Thurs, and Friday, 10am to 6pm, and Saturdays, 10am to 4pm. You can contact the store at 270-597-3474, located at 2530 Chalybeate Rd, Smiths Grove KY 42171. 
Edmonson Voice Staff
In January of this year, a fraud complaint was filed with the Sheriff's department regarding stolen money via an eBay purchase. A local business owner, Jackie Snelling, was attempting to purchase an embroidery machine on eBay. The seller somehow was able to defeat the eBay security measures and embedded an unauthorized link directing Mrs. Snelling to a separate website with instructions as to how to make the payment. After several fraudulent emails, the seller cut off communication with Mrs. Snelling and never shipped the embroidery machine. Lt. Shane Doyle with the Sheriff's Department worked the case, and requested assistance from the Dept. of Homeland Security. Doyle spoke with Agent Theodore Curtis, who assisted in the investigation. Together with DHS, Lt. Doyle was able to obtain search warrants for the seller's eBay and Google log in information, and they were able to track the seller to a location in South Carolina. Mrs. Snelling was contacted by agents in the South Carolina field office in October advising her that arrests had been made, and that she had been identified as a victim. The investigation spanned over six states and several countries, resulting in multiple arrests on federal fraud charges. "We have worked very hard to establish good working relationships with all of our surrounding law enforcement agencies, whether local, state, or federal," Doyle said. "Thankfully, the Dept. of Homeland Security has been very helpful, and they've done an excellent job on this case." Jackie Snelling told the Edmonson Voice to warn others of these types of scams. "When I first realized I had been scammed, I was so embarrassed. How could I be so stupid?" she said. "The more I thought about it, the more I realized how convincing the scam was. The Ebay listing, the e-mails from what looked like Ebay, logos and disclaimers, the confirmation of the transaction... all so convincing," she said. She also said that she contacted Ebay, but was told that the transaction had never taken place and the item had been removed. She then contacted Green Dot, (a payment service) but was told there was nothing they could do except recommend that a report be filed with local police. That didn't sound very promising because she didn't think the sheriff's department could be much help in this situation. "I went in and filed a report with Shane Doyle and to my surprise, he had special training in cyber crimes! I couldn't believe it. He took my report and ran with it," Snelling said. "Apparently through his investigation, he found that the money had left the country so he then contacted the local Homeland Security office." Mrs. Snelling also said that when she received the phone call from Homeland Security in South Carolina letting her know arrests had been made, she was beyond thrilled. Apparently several others had reported this scam on Ebay, but few were willing to help in the investigation. Homeland Security then requested more information from Snelling and luckily, she had kept good records of her ordeal. She was able to work with local officer Curtis and he helped expedite the process. "I am so proud of our local law enforcement and what they have accomplished," she added. "I learned a very expensive lesson. As they say, “If it sounds too good to be true it probably is...” I may not get my money back but I know I did my part to keep these crooks from scamming someone else. The shame is not in being the victim, the shame is in letting it continue," she said. The sheriff's department also added that any victim of fraud is urged to contact the National White Collar Crime Center, as well as local law enforcement.  Rep. Meredith speaking at recent event. (photo courtesy of ECRP) Edmonson Voice Staff
State Representative Michael Lee Meredith, also an Edmonson County resident, accepted yet another award last night, as he received the "Friends of Kentucky Cities Award" at the Bowling Green City Commission Meeting. The award is given by the Kentucky League of Cities to legislators who perform outstanding work in the legislature advocating for issues that impact cities across the state. “From my father’s role as mayor of Brownsville, to my own work as a former member of the city council I understand the hard work that our cities, both large and small, do to make their communities a better place to live and work,” said Representative Meredith. “As someone who tirelessly advocates for our cities I’m humbled to be named a Friend of Kentucky Cities, and pledge to continue working on their behalf in Frankfort.” The accolade is added to a longer lists of endorsements and awards including: recognition from The National Federation of Independent Business for Meredith's 100% pro-small business voting record, a recommendation from the KY Right-To-Life Political Action Committee, endorsements from The Associated General Contractors, which is the leading organization in Kentucky's commercial construction industry, an "A" rating from the National Rifle Association for being an advocate for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms, The Kentucky Educators' Political Action Committee for preserving public education, as well as the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #13. He also recently received the Hospice Champion Award from the KY Hospice and Palliative Care Association for moving their legislative priority forward in a bipartisan manner. Meredith added, "I can't tell you how much I appreciate these awards and endorsements, but my main focus is serving the people of the 19th District, as it's been since day one. It's just humbling that other folks are taking notice."  L-R: Shane Doyle, Jeff Brooks, Sheriff Wil Cannon, Wally Ritter, Stoney Phillips (courtesy ESCO) ECSO and
Edmonson Voice Staff A message from the Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office: As many of you know, the Edmonson County Fiscal Court voted to withdraw from the Drug Task Force a few weeks ago upon the recommendation from Sheriff Wil Cannon and Lieutenant Shane Doyle. Many of you have had questions and concerns regarding the matter. The Edmonson County Sheriff’s Department wants everyone to know that there is no cause for concern. We are currently fighting drugs in our county harder than ever before. The number one asset that the Drug Task Force always had was our department and other local law enforcement. Without us, the task force would have simply been ineffective. We initiated almost every drug investigation they had by bringing them the information they needed. Our department has been active in almost every drug investigation since Sheriff Cannon was elected. We were there in full force on all drug busts in the county, even storing the evidence in our facilities. They could do very little without our help. Before making the decision to leave the task force, we studied the numbers, researched all the information, and reviewed every possible scenario. One key factor was that the cost for us to remain in the task force increased substantially. We used to benefit from grant money that is now no longer available to Edmonson County. We now have to pay what is called “Buy-in Money,” which is about $9,400.00 per year. We also pay salary, benefits and overtime for our investigator. Just this year alone, in the five months we employed an investigator from the Drug Task Force, we were out over $3,000.00 in overtime—nearly all of which was in Barren and Allen counties, not here at home. Additionally, the Drug Task Force board of directors voted to rewrite the contract to require that all assets from drug seizures would go directly to the Task Force. This policy alone has cost the people of our county close to $75,000.00 over the past four years. Sheriff Cannon, Lt. Doyle, and the rest of our department know that the best thing for Edmonson County is to provide our own investigator who will spend all of their time in Edmonson County. This will be far more productive and efficient as our own investigator would not only be able to work drug cases, but also help with other investigations, such as burglaries and thefts. We know that most theft occurs as a result of drug use or activity. Solving these crimes will enable the investigator to develop their own information on dealers, activity, and drug use here at home. The final asset is that all forfeitures will remain in Edmonson County and not somewhere else. This will be a great benefit to all our citizens. So rest assured, leaving the Drug Task Force and adding our own drug investigator will be the best thing for our department, our families, and all Edmonson County citizens. We’ll be stronger and much more effective in our fight against drugs. And rest assured, we will never stop or slow down our attack in the war on drugs. EC Board of Education Brownsville, Kentucky – October 13, 2014 – Edmonson County Schools Superintendent Patrick Waddell today announced that the school district will receive a contribution of $10,000 from AT&T to support the Edmonson County High School science program. The contribution will be used to help purchase new microscopes for the biology labs and Venier probes for gathering data in chemistry and physics projects. "By providing students with the tools they need to get a good education, we are making a significant investment in their ability to be successful later in life,” said State Representative Michael Meredith. “I appreciate the partnership between the business community and our educational leaders to support Kentucky’s next generation of leaders.” “The overwhelming support from Representative Meredith is why we are able to bring these programs to the community and positively impact the lives of students throughout the area,” said Waddell. “We look forward to building our science program and preparing our students to continue their education or join the workforce for years to come.” “At AT&T, investing in the communities we serve is a critical part of what we do,” said Nancy Jarett, AT&T Kentucky Regional Director. “Supporting the work of local schools to educate students is one of the best investments a company could make. We appreciate the chance to partner in this effort.” 
Pictured L-R: Denise Stice, Derek Stice, ECHS Principal Tommy Hodges, Carolyn Vincent Michael Meredith, Superintendent Patrick Waddell
We've teamed up with Creekside Garden and Nursery in Chalybeate for our first annual Pumpkin Decorating Contest! All you have to do is send us a photo of your carved or decorated pumpkin and we'll narrow the entries down to 5 finalists. We'll post the finalists on edmonsonvoice.com and let our readers vote on their favorite. The one with the most votes wins $50 CASH! It's that simple. Creekside Garden and Nursery still has plenty of pumpkins available at their Chalybeate Road location, but with Halloween just around the corner, they won't last long. Already have a pumpkin? They've got tons more than just pumpkins...Please stop by and check out their other items that can make your fall decorations the talk of your neighborhood. Click here for the rules and more details. Entry deadline is Monday, Oct 27, at 12 noon. Submit your photo to: [email protected].   by Derek Curtis
On October 13, Edmonson County Sheriff Wil Cannon and Brownsville Police Department Officer Nathan Dennis attended a meeting with Edmonson County Cub Scout Pack 597. Sheriff Cannon and Officer Dennis spoke to the Scouts about a career in Law Enforcement and other public service careers. Sheriff Cannon presented Jason Willis with a United States Flag that is weathered and worn for the Scouts to retire. photo by Melanie Willis Edmonson Voice Staff
Darren Doyle, photos The Edmonson County Fiscal Court met on Monday, October 13, 2014 and discussed items regarding Mammoth Cave National Park facilities and the current status of Houchins Ferry. Mr. E. Lee Davis, President of Mammoth Cave National Park Association, along with Bobby Bunnell, Assistant Secretary of the organization, discussed the importance of hotel and restaurant facilities within the park. Their organization is a watchdog for Park Service activities and reports on various funded activities that effect local tax payers. Mr. Davis said that a committee in California has authority over the type of hotel and restaurant facilities that are in the park and that his organization has a resolution to oppose the current system. He discussed the economic benefits that building new facilities would bring to the area as opposed to moderately remodeling the current facilities. The resolution was handed out to the court and upon approval, would be sent to Congressman Brett Guthrie, as well as Senators Mitch McConnell, Rand Paul, and various lobbying groups. The main purpose of the resolution is to put local decision making back into the hands of local groups. Judge Reed suggested opposing the US Army Corps of Engineers Clean Water Act for Edmonson County as it would include county ditching and draining within the act. This would require permits for ditching and draining, would cause increased costs and construction delays and mentioned that Edmonson County has always acted responsibly for water quality and conservation. The court voted and agreed to oppose. A letter in reply to Brett Guthrie’s request to the Department of Interior to continue the operation of Houchins Ferry from the US Park Service was read. The letter claimed that the ferry was neither the property of Edmonson County nor the Commonwealth of Kentucky and was under full jurisdiction of the Park Service. At this time, the ferry will not be re-opened for the following reasons: 1. Budget cuts, 2. Costs too much to operate the ferry, 3. The Green River Bridge and Nolin Dam provide alternate routes, and 4. The ferry equipment is outdated and will cost a half-million dollars to replace. The Fiscal Court wanted the record to show that it opposed the letter and will continue to fight for the reopening of Houchins Ferry. The court approved a federal grant that will allow the local dispatch center to receive $70,000 in upgraded equipment as well as: Approved 9/14 Financial Report, the Judge’s Quarterly Report, the Sheriff’s Excess Fees Report pending final audit, approved a Road Dept Safety Meeting for 10/30, and set the speed limit for Browning Road at 40 MPH. The court also approved Sheriff Wil Cannon’s report. The sheriff said tax bills will go out on October 31. He also said school resource officer Jeff Brooks confiscated some marijuana at one of the schools, and acting on a tip, found more in another location in Rocky Hill. Sheriff Cannon also reported there had been 24 traffic citations, 18 courtesies, 8 vehicle searches, 14 accidents, 14 motor assists, and that the department answered 195 total calls. Edmonson Voice Staff
KSP Press Release (Bowling Green, KY.) On Sunday, October 12, 2014, Kentucky State Police Post 3 Bowling Green was requested by the Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office to investigate a single vehicle fatal collision. According to Trooper Chris Newkirk, James Miller (19) of Sweeden was travelling south on Little Mountain Road in Edmonson County when his vehicle collided with a pedestrian. The pedestrian, Tammy Duncan (49) of Sweeden died as a result of the collision. The investigation is still ongoing and is being investigated by Trooper Chris Newkirk. The Edmonson Voice will continue to follow the story as more details unfold. Edmonson Voice Staff
A couple of broken mains are the reason for a boil water advisory in the Big Reedy community for at least the next 24 hours. The Edmonson County Water District said that a broken main on Highway 70 caused problems around the Bear Creek area as well as an additional break in the Sunfish area on Highway 187. Residents are asked to boil all consumable water until further notice. FRANKFORT, KY. (Oct. 9, 2014) – The Kentucky Chamber Political Action Committee (PAC) has endorsed Michael Meredith (R-Brownsville) for re-election in the upcoming 2014 General Election. His selection for endorsement is based on his support for private enterprise and understanding of business issues, as well as his past voting record and his answers to the Kentucky Chamber PAC’s 2014 Legislative Candidate Survey.
Rep. Meredith has a consistent record of promoting and supporting issues that enable job growth and economic development, which lead to a higher quality of life for the citizens of the 19th House District and the Commonwealth. The Kentucky Chamber PAC is the independent political arm of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, the largest broad-based business organization in Kentucky. 
photo by Darren Doyle
After the strong winds and hail yesterday, the storms moved out, leaving an amazing lightning show just after dark. Our editor, Darren Doyle snapped this photo from his back porch.
 Gary Highbaugh, 63, (Hart Co Jail) Edmonson Voice Staff The weekend proved to be busy for local police as three separate unrelated DUI arrests were made throughout the county. On Friday night, Gary Highbaugh, 63, was pulled over by Deputy Sheriff Stoney Phillips, who was assisted by Deputy Wally Ritter and Officer Garth Avery of the Brownsville PD. There had been a complaint of erratic driving from a vehicle matching Highbaugh's description. As Highbaugh was stopped, police say a Pabst Blue Ribbon flew out the driver's side window. Highbaugh was charged with DUI, tampering with physical evidence. He was then served with an FTA warrant for possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, trafficking a controlled substance 2nd degree (2nd offense), carrying a concealed deadly weapon, and for being a persistent felony offender. Highbaugh was also arrested last week for being intoxicated and causing a disturbance in the Bee Spring Restaurant. He was lodged in the Hart County Jail. On Saturday evening, Phillip Meredith, 61, Bee Spring, was pulled over by Deputy Wally Ritter who was assisted by Special Deputy Jordan Jones, after police received reports of Meredith driving recklessly on Jock Road. As contact was made with Meredith, police said the strong smell of alcohol was evident. Police also said that Meredith was very non-compliant and he was arrested with multiple charges on top of aggravated circumstances DUI.  Jeffery Poteet, 40, (Warren Co. Jail) On Sunday night, Jeffery Poteet, 40, Warren County, was stopped by KSP Trooper Chris Newkirk on Highway 1749 in the Wingfield Community. Police said the odor of alcohol was very strong and that after Poteet failed the administered sobriety tests, he was arrested and charged with DUI.
 Gregory K. Saltsman, 52 (Hart Co Jail) Edmonson Voice Staff
An alert driver's call resulted in a traffic stop last night in Brownsville. A tip came in to the Edmonson County Dispatch Center that there was an erratic driver in Brownsville. Lt. Shane Doyle, who was on duty at the time, caught up with Gregory K. Saltsman, 52, of Bee Spring and pulled Saltsman's vehicle over. As Doyle approached the window, he could see that Saltsman was behaving oddly. Saltsman admitted to having a drink some 5 hours earlier, but said that he was ok to drive. Doyle then asked Saltsman to participate in a number of field sobriety tests, all of which Doyle said were failed miserably. Saltsman was then placed under arrest and charged with driving under the influence and wreckless driving. He was lodged in the Hart County Jail. "The Sheriff's Office takes driving under the influence very seriously," Doyle said. "We appreciate every tip we get from motorists. Anytime that they notice any erratic driving, please call the Edmonson County Dispatch Center at 270-597-2729."  Darren Doyle, story and photos: John Wayne Smith, democratic candidate for District 19 State Representative, announced he is remaining in the race today at a press conference held at the Brownsville Courthouse. He was indicted along with five others this past Monday for failing to report sex abuse at the Bluegrass Challenge Academy in Fort Knox while he was the academy's director. He denied the charge today as he addressed the media and a few spectators on hand. "I am innocent of the charge filed against me which consists of one single misdemeanor count stemming from the alleged wrongdoing of another individual under my command while I served as director of Bluegrass Challenge Academy," as he read in a prepared statement. He also said, "If anyone would think I'm going to be a puppet for the state democratic party, I would hope that these actions (remaining in the race and denying the charge) would remove that from your mind." We asked Smith if he felt that the indictment was going to be a distraction for him throughout the remainder of the race. "This week has been a distraction," he replied. "The rest of this campaign will not be a distraction. I still need to meet voters, convince them who I am, just like I've convinced the many people who know me. I need to convince them that what is being said about me is false, and it will be proven false." And as for how he will secure voter confidence in his ability to lead with a current indictment of failing to report sex abuse? "That's why I waited to have this press conference. I waited to see what the public opinion was going to be. We have been getting nothing but phone calls urging me to remain in the race...is it more difficult? Of course, it's more difficult." He went on to comment about the alleged sex abuse at Bluegrass Challenge Academy and said that what the indictment says and what really happened are two different things. "When Jane Doe (the accused victim-a minor) testifies as to what actually happened, what the investigation tried to do...it was determined that nothing--nothing happened, when people see that-- versus what's alleged in the indictment, they'll wonder how did they get that incident out of that statement? And I'll be acquitted, too." He also said he is standing by the other five individuals that are facing the same indictment as he. We caught up with his opponent, republican candidate and incumbent, Michael Meredith and asked his thoughts on Smith's current position. "Just like I've said in other interviews, I still think it would be inappropriate for me to comment about the situation," he said. "I have run a positive campaign, I feel good about the race, and I will continue running a positive race introducing myself to the voters and communicating with them about who I am, what I stand for, and why I want to continue representing the people of our district."  photo by ECSO Edmonson Voice Staff
A two-vehicle accident on Veteran's Highway in Chalybeate created some very difficult traffic conditions this morning when a silver Nissan driven by Haley Strunk, 18, turned left at Beaver Dam Church Road in front of Jeremy Hardwick, 41, driving a Chevrolet work van. The accident happened near a work zone on the right of way where Kentucky Highway Department workers were on site on a project when the front of Hardwick's vehicle struck the right rear of Strunk's. Both Strunk and Hardwick, as well as a passenger, were complaining of minor injuries and were transported for treatment by private vehicle. |
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