Edmonson Voice Staff
The Edmonson County Attorney’s office announces the launch of their new website, edmonsoncountyattorney.com.

The attorney's office said that the goal is to grant the public access to information related to the Edmonson County Attorney’s office through the website.  

The website features information about the staff, child support laws and regulations and downloadable forms, services that the office provides, contact information, links to other public offices, messages from the office and a photo gallery.

A statement from Attorney Hines' office said, "Since taking office in January 2016, Hines has improved the office’s ranking statewide in the area of child support from 91 out of 120 counties to currently being 10th in the state, according to a recent report.  Hines has also started a county attorney traffic program, an insurance monitoring program and a delinquent tax task force.  He has assertively worked with vendors in the community to collect cold debt checks, and law enforcement to fight crime."

“We want to keep residents of Edmonson County informed about the office and provide easy access to information important to our citizens.” said County Attorney J.B. Hines.

You can check out the new website by clicking www.edmonsoncountyattorney.com.

Darren Doyle
Judge Executive Wil Cannon is reminding all county residents that the burn ban implemented on November 4, 2016 is still in effect for all of Edmonson County.

The ban prohibits all outside open flames of any kind including burning trash, leaves, limbs, debris, as well as the use of fire pits and charcoal grills. Bonfires are also included in the ban.

"Basically, the ban includes any type of fire outside, period," Cannon said. "With the extreme dry conditions and the falling leaves, there is just too much fuel for a fire right now."

He said that he's hearing some have said certain types of fires or grills are permitted, but he said that is incorrect. 

"Please, until we get some rain that will improve these extreme conditions, just don't have any type of outdoor flame. The risk is simply too great."

Darren Doyle, story and photos
We are proud to announce the latest addition to our Edmonson Voice team, our new mascot, "The Voicemobile." 

We picked it up from Jones' Custom Creations in Brownsville last night where the graphics and light package was installed, and we've already received an overwhelming positive reaction. 

We thank our wonderful sponsors for making this possible including Alford's Pharmacy and Drive-Thru while the Edmonson Voice continues to grow as our county's number one source for local news, sports, and info.

Be on the lookout for the Voicemobile as we travel all over the county bringing you all the latest information that affects you and your community. Be sure to wave or honk if you read the EV!

We've been asked if the Voicemobile has missile launchers, smoke screens, or oil slicks. The answer is "not yet," however, we do have a great internet signal, which allows us to bring you up-to-date-information from virtually anywhere.

Also, watch for us in the upcoming Christmas Parade Saturday, November 26, 2016 at 6pm. The Voicemobile will be there, with Christmas decorations in place as we toss out candy to the crowd.

Again, thank you all for your wonderful support. Over the last three months, the Edmonson Voice has gathered almost a million visits, which is the total number of visits during our entire first year. 

We'll continue working hard to bring you the latest news and information, even without missile launchers. Thank you!

Roundhill, KY (November 15, 2016)- Due to information received from the autopsy that was performed in this case, the investigation is being conducted as a Murder.  No other information is available for release at this time.
 
The investigation is still ongoing and being led by Detective Graham Rutherford.  Anyone that may have information in reference to this investigation please call the Kentucky State Police Post 3 Bowling Green at (270)782-2010.

​Darren Doyle, story
​In addition to the normal reports and fiscal court discussions, the court voted to extend County Treasurer Margret Skaggs' raise retroactive to July 2016, per her request. The court had already voted at the last meeting to increase Treasurer Skaggs' pay by .50 per hour. She made a request to make it effective in July, 2016.  A motion was made,  seconded, and all voted in favor, except Magistrate Joe Durbin.

"This sets a precedent that any county employee can ask for retroactive rates when they get a raise," said Mag. Durbin. "I always understood that if you get a raise, it takes place after the raise is agreed upon. You don’t get to go back and say it began on a previous date. I don’t want to take anything away from Margret personally, this has nothing to do with her personally, but I’m against this because this could open up lots of additional costs and headaches we’re not prepared for.”

Cannon said he didn’t see it that way and that each case could be handled on a case-by-case basis. Durbin said he felt like it would be a case that if you did for one, you’d have to do for all. The retroactive amount would be an approximate additional amount of about $320 before taxes on top of the current pay raise. The motion passed.

County Road Foreman Ray Page requested that his department go to four 10hr days during the winter months. "Cold weather requires longer warm-up times for trucks and equipment," he said. "You can't just start a piece of equipment with hydraulics and take off. You have to have time for it to warm up." Page said since the weather has already began to cool down, he feels like his guys are wasting time out of the day waiting for trucks and equipment to warm up in the mornings.

He said rather than shortening an eight-hour workday due to waiting for warm-up times, going to 10 hr days will allow a full work day while only working four days during the week instead of five. The court agreed to allow Page to make the decision himself on what he thought was best for his department. He said he let the road workers vote on it and they agreed to go to four 10 hr days. The court allowed the decision.

Senior Food Pantry Director Vickie Walker clarified the Senior Food Pantry and the Food From the Heart Food Pantry, both located in the new facility inside the Community Center. She said apparently there had been confusion that both programs were the same. A chamber ribbon cutting for the facility is scheduled for November 21, 2016 at 10am. Walker is the director of the Senior Food Pantry while Food From the Heart is operated by Terri Vincent of Community Action.

“Terri Vincent has nothing to do with my program," said Walker. "The ribbon cutting is for the Senior food pantry only, not Food from the Heart. It’s not that I’m against the other program, but the ribbon cutting is for everyone that’s put in their time and effort into the Senior Food Pantry. I want this to be a community thing that celebrates everyone that's volunteered to make our new Senior Food Pantry possible."

Vincent sent a memo to the Judge's Office that made clarifications regarding her organization. The memo stated, "Food From the Heart is supplemental food and is the third Monday of each month and as needed for emergencies." 

All county offices and local organizations can be found on the new county website, edmonsoncounty.org.

Darren Doyle, story
Several reports were given at today's fiscal court meeting and a discussion was held regarding a possible county ordinance setting a 35mph speed limit on all county roads except for those already set at 25mph.
​
Sheriff Shane Doyle gave his report to the court and recapped the four arrests made on the recent arson cases. He gave credit to Detectives Wally Ritter and Scott Skaggs on great investigative work to help solve some of the cases. Sheriff Doyle also noted that the firefighters arrested should not reflect on the entire department of which they served, nor any other departments in the county. “We have some of the best firefighters and departments in the country right here in Edmonson County. This was an example of just stupid mistakes made by some kids.”

Doyle also discussed the successful Election Day and smooth process overall at the county polling places.

Rhonda Clemmons with the Chamber of Commerce announced that the annual Chamber Dinner will be held this Thursday at 6pm, a Planning Commission meeting Tuesday at 6pm, and a Trail Town Meeting on Tuesday, November 29. She also reminded everyone that the  Christmas Parade will be held on Nov 26, at 6pm, lineup begins at 4pm at ECHS.

Deputy Jailer Todd Vincent announced that there were currently 16 inmates, with four being on home incarceration. He also reported that the jailer's office had no current breakdowns, something that rarely happens.

​Parks and Rec Program Administrator Greg Hudson reported that Little league basketball has begun and that the Baseball/Softball board had been busy working on new batting cages. He also noted that soccer is completed, and they had 31 kids who played. "We had  no complaints on this year's season and, everyone seemed to enjoy the season," Hudson said.  
Tourism Board: Magistrate Mark Woosley and Judge Cannon attended the most recent meeting, where the focus was looking to promote Trail Town and the upcoming Christmas Parade. Mag. Woosley also announced that the Mammoth Cave Hotel and restaurant will stay open all winter.
​
Hellervik Oil representative Jim Brown reported that the company had been busy meeting with Judge Cannon, lawyers, pipe layers, and potential customers. He said they have potential customers ready to purchase gas as soon as the plant is ready. “This thing is coming together, just not as quickly as we’d like it to because of all the preparations required to do this correctly.” He also thanked the Edmonson Voice for great exposure on an ad they'd recently run. He said a former Edmonson County resident that lived in Texas saw their ad on the Voice and contacted the company about some gas wells that the resident still owned in Edmonson County.

Speed Limits: Judge Cannon discussed with magistrates the possibility of either road-by-road mph limit or signing a blanket ordinance of 35mph for all county roads unless otherwise posted. J.B. Hines said ordinance would have to be drafted. Several county roads are 45mph. Those that would be changed from 45 to 35 would have to have new signage made and installed, something that could accumulate quite a cost. Road Foreman Ray Page said he would research the costs of the new signs and report back to the court at the next meeting.

Starnes Construction said they've done exactly what they were asked to do. They said that they were initially hired to install a drain and they did. They also say that drain has worked properly since the beginning. According to the contracting company, the additional problems encountered at the park since the original work was because of other conditions and had nothing to do with the initial work the company was hired to do. The construction company said they had a verbal agreement with Judge Executive Wil Cannon to return and perform a specific scope of work but that was changed by Greg Hudson at the site. Starnes Construction said no one was able to contact Cannon at that time and rather than holding up the entire job, the company completed the work at Hudson's request.

The fiscal court has postponed payment three different times since receiving the bill; each time, allowing another opportunity for a representative of the company to attend the next fiscal court meeting. No one from the company attended today's meeting either, but company owner Don Starnes sent a text message to Judge Cannon, A.B. Webb, Sheriff Shane Doyle, Magistrate Mark Woosley, and Edmonson Voice Editor Darren Doyle explaining the stance of the company. Park Director A.B. Webb read the message aloud to the court.

"Was hired to install French drain with open ditch with rock open and level with grade, we were advised that it must be covered with dirt causing French drain unable to work 100%. Met with Judge Will Cannon And agreed to come back and blade in a surface ditch above first drain installed, at no charge. While attempting to install bladed surface ditch, Greg Hudson advised he wanted another French drain installed above first drain, but this time leave open to the top grade which would allow water from Bank of lake to be diverted to existing waterway. This is the same procedure we attempted to install The first work that was agreed on. Ball park fence post were removed and reset to accomplish second drain. I myself gave judge will canon my word and guarantee before we started any excavating that drain would work sufficiently and dry up trouble spot . A French drain cannot function properly if it is not left open so to catch and divert. By having us cover The first French drain installed with dirt is the reason it did not work. I attempted to reach judge will canon when Greg Hudson advised he wanted second drain installed, but could not make contact with him, so I advised My men on job to follow Greg Hudson's instructions. Thank you Don Starnes /Starnes construction LLC."

​Mr. Starnes also told us that he'd advised Magistrate Mark Woosley that the court could do away with the bill if they thought they didn't owe it.
​
Judge Cannon said he didn’t want the local government known as an entity that didn’t pay their bills and he recommended that the fiscal court pay it and move on, even though he didn't agree with how the matter had been handled. He said he'd learned a lesson to have future agreements in writing so that there would be no question.  

Magistrate Joe Durbin said he was not in favor of paying the bill, as a guarantee meant exactly that. Mag. Woosley said he was also opposed to paying the  $2326.04 bill until Mr. Starnes attended fiscal court and explained his situation in person. 

All the court agreed that the subcontractors who returned to the site that actually completed the work did a great job and did what the court asked, however, they argued that the additional work done should’ve been included in Starnes Construction’s guarantee.

​The court agreed to take no action until Mr. Starnes attended fiscal court and spoke in person.

Darren Doyle, story
County Attorney J.B. Hines summarized an agreed order of dismissal in the ongoing lawsuit between the plantiffs Lillemor Shenk and Kathryn and Kenneth Smith and the defendants, the Edmonson County Fiscal Court, including all magistrates, Judge Executive Wil Cannon, and former animal control officers Kim Carroll and Greg Carroll.

The court took no action today on the seventeen page agreement as Attorney Hines recommended that each member of the court be given ample time to read and understand the requirements within the agreement.

Hines said that signing the agreement would dismiss the case against the county, but place affirmative duties on the county including: not being able to contract with the Carrolls indirectly or directly, agree to contract to non-profit organizations only or operate independently as a governmental agency. He also said that there were terms required for specifics on euthanasia and advertising on a shelter-run Facebook page before being administered.

Hines also discussed some specific terms about cleaning the facilities and cages, the types of cages used, and the formulas for cleaning agents. The terms also included provisions on cat care, requesting that "A cat room shall have a window, if possible."

Hines said he was perfectly fine with pursuing the court date in the event that the fiscal court didn’t agree to the terms of the agreed order of dismissal.

Cannon said the plaintiffs were asking for far more that what the law requires for operation of a local shelter. He said he didn't think any of the fiscal court members would be interested in signing the agreement. We asked him if there could be an agreement reached if the plaintiffs were interested in meeting somewhere in the middle.

"We'll follow the law as far as a new animal shelter is concerned," said Cannon. "There's no need in all the specific details the plaintiffs are asking of us. What they want us to do is above what the law requires and that's not necessary. We're following the law with our current set up and things are moving forward. There's just no need in doing all these other things."

Plaintiff Kathryn Smith is the founder of the Humane Society of Edmonson County.

Darren Doyle, story
A Clarkson man was arrested on meth charges after he reportedly ran through Sweeden Church's yard, in and out of a ditch, coming to rest in the front yard of a residence near the church, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

Authorities said they were called out at 4AM on Monday morning to the report of a vehicle parked in the yard at the Sweeden residence with the engine running and headlights on. Homeowners said they attempted to make contact with the man but he could not be awakened.

The Sheriff's office said after they arrived, they eventually were able to awaken Ryan C. Alvey, 32 of Clarkson who was driving a 2013 Nissan Altima. According the Sheriff's Office, Alvey told authorities that while driving home, he became sleepy and decided to pull into the church parking lot to sleep, but he claimed he must have dozed off before putting his vehicle in park.

Officials said it appeared that Alvey's foot slipped off the brake, causing the vehicle to travel through the church yard, a ditch, and finally coming to rest in the homeowner's yard, all while Alvey remained asleep. 
​
The Sheriff's Office said that Alvey had admitted to taking meth before the incident and seemed to be coming down from a high. Officials said that Alvey did not show signs of intoxication, only severe fatigue.

​It was also discovered that Alvey was wanted on an outstanding meth warrant in Texas on a $200,000 bond for possessing over two pounds of methamphetamine. 

Authorities said that Alvey admitted to having meth and a pipe used to consume meth in his possession and he was arrested and charged with Possession of a controlled substance-first degree-first offense-meth, and Drug Paraphernalia-buy/possess. 

​He was lodged in the Hart County Jail. ​

Darren Doyle, story and photos
The Brownsville Community Center was packed today with folks looking to make a difference in their community while bidding on some great items and gift packages. When it was all said and done, over $24,000 was raised at the annual Santa's Secret Hands benefit auction today.

"There were other events going on in the county today, plus it was the first day of deer season, so we were a little worried about our turnout," said event coordinator, Mark Wardlow. "The other events didn't really seem to hurt our crowd and we were very happy with the turnout."

The organization will use the funds to purchase Christmas gifts for Edmonson County folks that are in need. Wardlow says the program benefits an array of needy folks, all of which must reside in Edmonson County.

Those that are helped by the program are Edmonson County school children (up to age 18) and their younger siblings, those in the nursing home that don't fall under family or church care, residents of the local adult day care center, and some recommended by Community Action and Lifeskills.

"These gifts really count, too," said Wardlow. "Sometimes a person just wants a flannel shirt or a new pair of work boots. Sometimes it's an elderly lady who doesn't want anything for herself, but can't afford to buy her husband something." 

He also said over $600 was raised for the new Senior Food Pantry, located inside the Community Center.

Wardlow gave all credit to the volunteers, donors, and those that attended.

"There are so many people that make this happen. All the great gifts and items that were donated, the hard work our volunteers put in this all year long, everyone that came out and helped in anyway, we just appreciate them so much," he said.

And with turmoil and uncertainty ruling national headlines these days, it's good to know that folks still come together in Edmonson County, Kentucky to help their community when they can. The Edmonson Voice salutes everyone that helped Santa's Secret Hands benefit auction become another success this year. Someone's holidays will be a little brighter this year thanks to you. 

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
Kyrock Elementary and the Edmonson County 5/6 Center were among local schools that honored their veterans today with school programs.

Kyrock featured 3rd grader Brayden Johnson and 4th grader Cecilia Spainhoward leading the song "God Bless The USA" while guest speaker Chester Brooks addressed the crowd.

Local Boy Scouts presented the colors.

The Edmonson County 5/6 Center also honored veterans today at their annual veterans assembly where they hosted guest speaker John Vincent. Andrea Brantley also sang "God Bless The USA." Everyone in attendance received a small American flag.

Derek Curtis, story and photos
Today, Boy Scouts from Edmonson County Troop 597 and Arrow of Light Scouts from Edmonson County Pack 597 conducted a Veterans program at the Brownsville, Kentucky senior care center for those Veterans that were unable to attend a Veteran's Day program.

The Program opened with the Scouts presenting the American, Kentucky and Edmonson County Flags.   Arrow of Light Scout Dakotah Curtis led the pledge of allegiance while Boy Scout Haydn Burrell, Arrow of Light Scouts Brycen Daniels, and Jason Willis presented the flags.

​Boy Scout J.T. Stewart provided a prayer thanking the Lord for our veterans. Boy Scout Derick Jaggers and Arrow of Light Scout Tristan Lucas read poems thanking our veterans. The veterans in attendance were then presented with an American Flag. Boy Scout Dalton Curtis concluded the program by playing Taps in honor of those veterans that paid the ultimate price. ​

Darren Doyle, story and photo
As students led today's Veterans Day Ceremony with worthy speeches, prayers, and songs of their own, former Edmonson County Sheriff B.J. Honeycutt, an Army National Guard Veteran delivered the keynote address at the annual event attended by dozens of veterans, their families, county officials, students, and school board employees.

Honeycutt had no prepared speech, but addressed the crowd in a very down-to-earth manner. As students focused their speeches on respect and honor, Honeycutt followed suit while reiterating the idea that "freedom isn't free." 

"We've got a lot of freedom out here," Honeycutt said. "We got the freedom to do just about anything we want to unless it's governed by law. We can wear the clothes we want, we can go to church, the kind of car we drive...everything we want to do, we have freedom to do it. Sometimes we take that freedom for granted. We think that's free, but it's not free...it was paid for by somebody."

Honeycutt noted that during WWII, over 9% of the total population had joined the military, but today, those numbers are less than 1%. 

"We still should be thankful for that. The fact that someone is out there standing guard so we can meet here today. I know I'm thankful, but lots of times I take it for granted," he said. 

Honeycutt, who served in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, spoke about some of the horrors of war and the effects of such.

"I'm not trying to scare you, but I want you to realize what these veterans have done, and what has to be done to provide these freedoms for us all," he said. 

Honeycutt read a poem by an author that wasn't announced, that spoke of the freedoms we have today, each one being made possible by a veteran, including the freedom to burn an American flag if one so chooses.

"That's one of the freedoms people have today. They have the right to burn that flag if they want to, but I guarantee you if you try to burn a flag in front of me or some of my buddies here today, we're going to open up on you like a jar of molasses," he said as several in the crowd nodded in agreement.

As Honeycutt concluded, he thanked the crowd for their attention.

"Thank you," he said. "God bless you. God bless the United States, and God bless our veterans," as the crowd stood to their feet in applause.

Darren Doyle, story and photos
As students, faculty, staff, veterans, county officials, and friends and family gathered at ECHS for the annual Veterans Day Ceremony and Voice of Democracy speeches, one common theme rang true with all speakers during the program: respect and honor.

First place winner Lauren Ballance, second place winner John Michael Mills, and third place winner Presley Kendall, all spoke of the need of having respect for one another as humans and respecting what it takes to keep democracy and freedom. They all spoke of honoring the flag, our country, and the veterans that fought and died for our way of live, along with those that are still fighting.

Ms. Ballance received a $500 prize for first, Mr. Mills received $300 for second, and Ms. Presley took home $200 for winning third place.

The student-led program began with the presentation of the colors by members of the ECHS color guard, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance by Senior Bailey Board, the playing of the National Anthem by the ECHS band, and then opening prayers, also led by students.

Mr. Edwin Vincent, a U.S. Air Force veteran and local VFW Post Commander recognized the dozens of veterans that attended the program, some from all branches of the Armed Forces including black, white, male, and female veterans from all walks of life.

The keynote speaker was former Edmonson County Sheriff and Army National Guard Veteran B.J. Honeycutt. 

The program was closed out by Ms. Morgan Ray and Mr. Dawson Stith leading the crowd in closing prayer followed by a heartfelt rendition of "Taps," by the ECHS band. 

Dozens of veterans and their families stayed after the program for fellowship and visiting. The Bank of Edmonson County provided a hospitality room for all veterans and their families. The Voice of Democracy awards were sponsored by Gravil Funeral Home, Madison's Flowers, Kyle White PVA, and Walmart #266 on Campbell Lane.

Other students entering the Voice of Democracy contest were: Olivia Forester, Morgan Ray, Lilleee Ashton Sanders, Sawyer Spainhoward, Haley Tarter, Cameron Vincent, and Kolbie Vincent.

​The ECHS FFA greeted all visitors, handed out programs,  and escorted them to the proper entrance today.

by Diane Dyer, Beech Tree News
​Local fire departments were dispatched to Region Reedyville Road in Butler County around 4:40pm yesterday for a vehicle and possible field fire.  Upon arrival, firefighters found the vehicle fully engulfed.  After extinguishing the fire, two bodies were discovered inside the vehicle. The vehicle was impounded and the bodies were taken to Madisonville for autopsies.

Responding to the scene were: Fourth District, Fifth District, Brownsville, Bear Creek, Kyrock, and Chalybeate Fire Departments, Butler County Sheriff's Department, Morgantown Police Department, and the Butler County Coroner.

Kentucky State Police is conducting the on-going investigation.

This article was first published by BeechTreeNews.com.

Darren Doyle, story and photo
A voter amount of 5,344 was the final number in Edmonson County today for a total of a 59% turnout in the 2016 general election. 

Republicans took the national and state races as Donald Trump took 79% of the total count along with Rand Paul's 68% over Jim Gray, State Senate Candidate Steve Meredith's 79% over Leslie Stith, and local Michael Lee Meredith's 84% total over John Wayne Smith. 

U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie ran unopposed.

In the Brownsville City races, Mayor Jerry Meredith defeated challenger Roger Stevenson 179 to 112 (62%). 

The six elected city council members are:
Jeremy Spainhoward 227
Stephanie Stewart Gibson 207
Greg Nugent 180
Anthony Slug Duvall 163
Silas Sonny Prunty 158
Justin Meredith 148

School board candidates and County Coroner all ran unopposed.

County Clerk Kevin Alexander said he was well pleased with the day and all the cooperation his office received county-wide.

"We had a great day with very little problems," he said. "All of our poll workers did a great job and I appreciate everyone here on the election commission for their hard work. We were able to tally the votes quickly and easily and we were thrilled with the great voter turnout."

Darren Doyle, story and photo
Folks have steadily voted all over Edmonson County today in what appears to end up being a near 60%-65% voter turnout, a number unheard of here, locally.

Normally, up to a 50% voter turnout is all that's expected during general Presidential elections in the county, but local voting officials say they believe Edmonson County voters see more at stake.

"People will vote their convictions and beliefs when they feel like it really matters," said Sheriff Shane Doyle, who is also a member of the county election board. "The voters that I've talked to are really concerned about the current political landscape and they want to make sure their vote is counted."

County Clerk Kevin Alexander said the overall numbers by midday were very high.

"People were already lined up at several places before the polls opened this morning at 6AM," he said. "There has been a good turnout at each polling place throughout the county so far with some really strong numbers."

Alexander said for the most part, the voting process has gone smoothly county-wide, with no major issues. 

"We tried our best to publicize the re-opening of the Wingfield polling place, but there were still some people who were unaware. There are always voters that will call our office at the last minute to try to find out where they're supposed to vote. Of course, we're here for that, but we've really tried hard to keep folks informed of those things. We're just glad we're seeing such a high number of voters today."

Darren Doyle, story and photos
Four men have been arrested for their connections and involvement with the Sunfish Mall fire on Halloween night, and/or other recent fires, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

Tyler Hamilton, 20, and Daniel Massey, 20, both of Brownsville, which are also volunteer firemen for the Kyrock Fire Department, have been arrested and charged with Arson-second degree and Burglary-third degree.

John Richard Woodcock, 20, of Leitchfield and Dylan Ramsey, 21, of Brownsville were also arrested and face the same charges.

Officials said the men were involved in or connected to setting nearby fires that occurred on October 30, 2016, and a house fire across from Willie Hogan Road on August 6, 2016. 

The Sheriff's Office reported that Hamilton, Woodcock, and Ramsey were directly connected to the Sunfish Mall  and other fires, and Massey was directly connected to a string of several other area fires.

​Authorities also said that more arrests are pending, following the next Edmonson County Grand Jury, with at least one of those being a juvenile.

​Officials said that all four men admitted to their involvement with the fires.

The Sheriff's Office says they believe that a "hero" motive was the reason for the fires. This is where firefighters start fires only so they can respond to them, seemingly becoming heroes to the public. 

"There are certainly no heroes in this situation," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "This hurts all of our local firefighters and we have some of the very best right here in Edmonson County. We also have several local fire departments with out-dated gear, budget problems, and not enough members, yet you have have this going on. People also have property that's been destroyed and someone could've been seriously injured, or worse, killed."

The cases are still under investigation and officials said that the accused men will likely face a host of other charges.

​If convicted, each man faces up to 25 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine for the arson and burglary charges alone. Each of the men were transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail.

Sheriff Doyle said they immediately reached out to the state fire marshal's office after the Sunfish incident.

"We knew those guys were busy statewide, but we obviously had a time-sensitive situation here. We had some good leads on a couple of suspects and thanks to very thorough investigative work in our office, we were able to find the answers we were looking for. A couple of our guys and myself went without sleep for a night or two, but it's worth it to solve a case, especially arson. These types of cases are rarely solved." 

Edmonson Voice Staff Report courtesy KSP
Morgantown, KY (November 6, 2016)- The Kentucky State Police Post 3 Bowling Green was notified this morning at approx. 2:13 am that a Butler County Deputy had been involved in a shooting after being dragged by a vehicle on Logansport Road near the intersection of Dave Gaskey Lane in the limits of Morgantown.
 
The preliminary investigation indicated that Deputy Chris Reneer with the Butler County Sheriff’s Department conducted a traffic stop on a 2010 Ford Explorer on Logansport Road near the intersection of Dave Gaskey Lane in the limits of Morgantown Road where it was believed that the occupants had outstanding warrants.

During the process of attempting to positively identify the passenger, the subject became combative and involved in a physical altercation with Deputy Reneer.  The Deputy deployed his Taser where the suspect continued to be combative and gained access to the driver’s side of the vehicle and accelerated, resulting in Deputy Reneer being dragged by the vehicle.
 
At this time Deputy Reneer fired multiple shots from his agency issued handgun in response to being dragged by the vehicle where he struck the suspect multiple times.  The vehicle continued a short distance before coming to a stop after striking a guardrail at the intersection of Logansport Road and Dave Gaskey Lane, allowing Deputy Reneer to free himself from the vehicle.
 
The suspect was identified as Randy J. Clark Jr (43) of Bowling Green and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Butler County Coroner’s Office.  It was discovered that Mr. Clark was wanted on multiple outstanding warrants in Warren County and by Probation and Parole.
 
Deputy Reneer was transported by the Butler County EMS to the Medical Center in Bowling Green for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.
 
The investigation is still ongoing and being led by Sergeant Jermaine Savage.  He was assisted on the scene by Detectives and Troopers from KSP Post 3 Bowling Green, Butler County Sheriff’s Department, Morgantown Police Department, Butler County Coroner’s Office, Butler County EMS, and the Morgantown Fire Department.  No other information is available for release at this time.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
Local law enforcement went looking for a Roundhill man on two outstanding warrants from Edmonson and Warren Counties several weeks ago, but the night ended in a high-speed chase that led to the man eluding officials.

Officials said that they were advised that Brian Keith Green Jr, (36) of Roundhill, could be staying with a girlfriend on Hunts Church Road. After arriving at the residence and speaking with the girlfriend, deputies said the woman said she hadn't seen Green in over two years.

Officials said they left the scene and met a van just down the road matching the description of Green's van, but instead of stopping, the van attempted to hit the officer's car head on, but the deputy was able to avoid a collision, Green's van took the ditch at the last minute, and a pursuit began. He was able to get away but authorities said his girlfriend admitted that he had been staying at her residence.

​Later, on October 27, 2016, deputies received an anonymous tip that Green was broken down on the side of the road on KY HWY 185 near the Grayson County line. The Edmonson County Sheriff's office reported that they drove to the location, found Green, and he was arrested on the spot.

In addition to the outstanding warrants, he was also charged with Wanton endangerment-first degree police officer, Fleeing or evading police-first degree motor vehicle, and Operating on suspended/revoked license.

The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office was also assisted by the Grayson County Sheriff's Office.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report
The Edmonson County Fiscal Court has announced the launch of their brand new county government and organization website, edmonsoncounty.org, built by local company Studio DD.

The project is a multi-page website that lists and describes the members of fiscal court, all county officials, county-run offices, organizations, local utilities, local, state and federal law makers, a history of Edmonson County and an easy way to contact any local office.

"This is something that's been necessary for a long time," said Judge Executive Wil Cannon. "People want information quickly and easily, and the best way for that to happen nowadays is through something internet-based."

The new site has a fresh new logo with a county road-sign theme and also features beautiful photos from around the county as background art.

​Cannon said the county had a previous site run by the state government in Frankfort but it has not been updated since 2007. 

"The old site doesn't help the county at all. It's embarrassing to search for something about Edmonson County and the only thing available on the internet is from 2007. We're working with Frankfort to completely disable the old site and hopefully it will be gone soon. We felt like having a local company take care of this was the right way to go and we couldn't be more pleased with how it turned out."

Cannon said many county residents have been frustrated with the inability to contact certain offices or officials. The site lists contact info for all six county magistrates along with photos and also includes direct links to any office or organization's individual website.

​A push for the new website was also made by County Clerk Kevin Alexander.

"As a county official, I'm excited to see this new site and am very pleased with the work done by Studio DD," said Alexander. "Having centralized information is beneficial to everyone, and I think it's great. I'm glad our fiscal court took the bold move by having this done."

Again, the new site address is edmonsoncounty.org.

Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, November 1, 2016. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding.

Andrew Hampton, Theft by deception-including cold checks under $500 (four counts). Pleaded not guilt to all counts. Pretrial conference 11-29-16.

Tyler Patrick Poole, Speeding 26mph over limit. Failure to produce insurance card. Failed to appear. Notice sent to Dept. of Transportation.

Rodney Wayne McNutt, Burglary 3rd degree. Tampering with physical evidence. Convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Controlled substance prescription not in original container. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial hearing 11-15-16.

Richie Dylan Seabolt, Possession of controlled substance first degree-first offense-meth. Use/possess drug paraphernalia first offense. Pleaded not guilty to both charges. Pretrial hearing 11-15-16.

Brian Keith Green Jr, Wanton endangerment first degree police officer. Fleeing or evading police first degree motor vehicle. Operating on suspended/revoked license. Probation violation for felony offense. Continued for 11-15-16.

Rich L Jaggers, Tampering with a witness. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial hearing for 11-15-16.

Jonathan M Gammons, Theft by deception-including cold checks under $500, (two counts). Pleaded not guilty to both. Pretrial conference 1-10-17.

Darrell W Ray, Theft by deception-including cold checks under $500 (four counts). Pleaded not guilty to all. Pretrial conference 1-10-17.

William C Smith, No operator's/moped license. Careless driving. Pleaded not guilty, pretrial conference 12-20-16.

Darren Doyle
Judge Executive Wil Cannon has issued a county-wide ban on all open burning in Edmonson County effective immediately.

This includes any and all types of outdoor burning, including burning leaves and limbs, trash, or brush. 

"Several other counties have already put this in place," Cannon said. "We've spoken with our local fire departments and emergency management office and we all feel that this is the right thing to do."

Current outdoor conditions are extremely volatile for the advancement and spreading of a fire, due to the extreme dry and breezy situation.

"You know, you could just throw a cigarette out your vehicle window and that's just enough of a spark to cause some major damage," he added. "This ban will be in effect until conditions improve, and that's going to take a good amount of rainfall."

*UPDATE: MAMMOTH CAVE NATIONAL PARK ALSO ANNOUNCES BURN BAN 
​Superintendent Sarah Craighead instituted a ban on all open-flame fires within Mammoth Cave National Park, effective immediately.  Judge executives in Barren, Edmonson and Hart Counties have also issued fire bans.
 
“The lack of precipitation in September and October has caused drought conditions in our area,” said Craighead.  “The fire ban will protect park visitors and park resources.  The ban will be in effect until conditions improve.”
 
Campfires and use of charcoal are banned in the park.  Only camp stoves will be allowed in the campground.

Darren Doyle
Tuesday, November 8, 2016 is a big day in the United States, Kentucky, and Edmonson County as the polls will be open once again for Election Day.

​Nationally, voters will choose a new President of the United States, and while there are six choices on the ballot, the decision will come down to either Democratic Nominee Hillary Clinton, or Republican Nominee Donald Trump.

Statewide, Kentuckians will choose either Republican incumbent Rand Paul or Democratic Challenger Jim Gray for U.S. Senate, and in the U.S. Congress race, Republican incumbent Brett Guthrie is unopposed.

In the 5th district state senate race, a new state senator will be chosen between Republican Steve Meredith and Democrat Leslie Stith. The 19th district state representative race features a local resident, Republican incumbent Michael Lee Meredith against Democratic challenger John Wayne Smith.

Locally, Republican appointed Coroner Brentley Esters is running unopposed. 

There are also non-partisan county school board races, but all incumbents are running unopposed.

In the non-partisan Brownsville Mayoral race, incumbent Jerry Meredith is being challenged by local business owner Roger Stevenson.

In the Brownsville City Council race, seven non-partisan candidates are vying for six spots. One will left out from the choices of Jeremy Spainhoward, Greg Nugent, Richard D. Jones, Silas "Sonny" Prunty, Justin Meredith, Anthony "Slug" Duvall, and Stephanie Stewart Gibson.

Polls will be open county-wide, including the Wingfield Fire Department, from 6AM to 6PM.