Scenes Set To Be Shot At ECHS, Cee Bee, and More Darren Doyle, story and photo:
A faith-based film entitled "The Prayer Box," is set to begin filming in various parts of Edmonson County from December 4 - December 20, 2017, according to Kevan Otto, from KKO Productions in Hollywood, CA. Otto said the Southern KY Film Commission recommended Edmonson County as the location for their film based on the film's needs. While the name of the actor who will star in the film has not been released, local SOKY Film Commission member Rhonda Clemmons said the actor will be a very well known name. Otto said the film's plot is a little boy that decides to start answering prayer requests from his church himself. "We've been working with Rhonda who's been amazing," said Otto. "She's been showing us around and helping us facilitate everything we need to cross off the list for our first film. We're going to come into your town with a lot of folks who'll make a lot of noise until the 20th," he joked. Clemmons said that parts of the movie are set to be filmed at ECHS, Brownsville Baptist Church, Cee Bee Food Store, and other locations inside the county. "This is why we joined the film commission," said Clemmons. "We're so excited that Edmonson County is finally able to be part of the filming process. We're so happy that we've been chosen for this film and we want everyone to welcome the crew members here and show them what our little county is all about." Clemmons also said that local bed and breakfasts have been booked for several weeks and that local help will be recruited for a variety of jobs during the filming process. Once filming is complete, the company said a private screening will be offered somewhere in Brownsville for Edmonson County. Otto also said it's likely the company could return in January for an additional film if the right locations can be secured, which will be based on farmland, something not too hard to find in Edmonson County.
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Immediate Needs Are Reportedly Being Met Darren Doyle, story and photo:
Both the Edmonson Voice and the Chalybeate Fire Department have been overwhelmed with calls and messages from those who want to help Sunday's house fire victim, L.D. LaMastus. The Chalybeate VFD is working in conjunction with the American Red Cross to see to Mr. LaMastus' immediate needs once he is released from the hospital. Mr. LaMastus spoke with us today and said he is expected to remain hospitalized for another couple of days while he undergoes more breathing tests. The Edmonson Voice has also been in contact with Santa's Secret Hands about a more local effort once Mr. LaMastus is released from the hospital and is out of Red Cross care. For now, the Red Cross has advised that anyone wishing to help can make a donation at any Goodwill location and tell them it's for the Red Cross. Both organizations will work together to see that Mr. LaMastus' immediate needs are met. His sizes are: Pants 32x32, Shirt (M), Shoes: 10 1/2 - 11. Again, these items can be taken to any Goodwill location. You can also make monetary donations to Santa's Secret Hands by contacting Mark Wardlow at 270-991-2972. While SSH funds are used to benefit needy seniors and children at Christmas, they also work with other charities to help with emergencies such as this. Mr. LaMastus said he is feeling much better today but his main concern was still focused on his dog, Judy, who is currently in the care of a neighbor. Darren Doyle, story and photos: An Edmonson County man barely escaped from a house fire this afternoon trying to save his dog from the burning building. L.D. LaMastus, (72), of 1728 Shadyland Church Road said he heard a "pop" in the back room of his home today and as he went to check it out, smoke began filling the area. Mr. LaMastus said he began looking inside for his dog, Judy, but couldn't find her. He said he went outside to search for her but didn't see her there, either. Frantic, he went back inside to make sure he hadn't overlooked her in the house and that's when smoke took over the entire building. He said he ran back out and flagged down a passerby, which was John Denton, (31), of Bowling Green. Denton said he was visiting a friend at a nearby birthday party when he saw Mr. LaMastus' home engulfed in smoke. "He said he couldn't find his dog and he ran back inside," said Denton. "We started calling for the dog and couldn't find her. We were on the front porch and I told the man we had to get out of there, smoke was everywhere. About that time, the whole place went up in flames." LaMastus thought that the dog didn't make it out alive but then saw something in a nearby field. "Just when I thought it was all over, here she come through that field," he said. "Turns out, she's smarter than me. I've lost everything here today, but I got Judy. She's all I need." The home of Ben Meredith, a next door neighbor, suffered minor damage as the vinyl siding was melted off one side of his home. Mr. Meredith said that LaMastus had rushed next door and asked him to call 911.
Mr. LaMastus also lost a Dodge pickup in the fire. A car belonging to LaMastus was saved thanks to Mr. Denton's quick action by putting the car in neutral and pushing it away from the house before the flames overtook the entire property. LaMastus was grateful to Denton for his help. Everything else was lost in the fire. "We did all we could do," said Denton. Mr. LaMastus appeared to have suffered from smoke inhalation and a few first degree burns. His face and hands were completely blackened with soot. He was taken to the hospital via Edmonson EMS. A neighbor offered to take care of Judy until Mr. LaMastus was again able to do so. Responding to the scene were the Chalybeate, Rocky Hill, Wingfield, and Brownsville Fire Departments, in addition to local EMS and WRECC. This was the third call for a fire in a 24hr period on Edmonson County's south side. No One Home At Time, No Electric Service To Building Darren Doyle, story and photos: Rocky Hill and Chalybeate Firefighters responded to 18035 Louisville Road, just west of Bluebird Valley around 3am this morning, November 12, 2017, to the report of a structure fire. A burning detached garage building was nearly on the ground as emergency workers arrived, but they battled to keep the fire from spreading into nearby fields and the house in front of it, which was only a few feet away. Some siding from the back of the house had melted, but the house itself was saved. Officials on scene said no one lived at the house at the time and it had been undergoing remodeling. They also reported that the garage had no electric service. No one on scene knew who owned the property, and one firefighter said no one had lived there for quite some time. A passerby called to report the fire.
No cause of fire was given and those at the scene were suspicious with no electric service to the structure. No injuries were reported. Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, October 31, 2017. The Honorable Judge Joseph B. Hines presiding. Amber B. Blake, Public intoxication controlled substance excludes alcohol. Disorderly conduct 2nd degree. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference, 11/7/17. Adrian M. Cannon, Assault 4th degree domestic violence, minor injury. Deferred on motion of county attorney, costs waived. Amy Shirvanipour, Speeding 9mph over limit. Failed to appear, notice sent to dept. of transportation. Wesley Andrew Potter, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol--aggravator, first offense. Possession of open alcohol beverage container in motor vehicle. Continue on 11/7/17. William Gregory, Falsely reporting an incident. Failed to appear. $500 cash bench warrant issued. Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding. Wesley Andrew Potter, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol--aggravator, first offense. Possession of open alcohol beverage container in motor vehicle. Pleaded not guilty to both charges. Pretrial conference 11/21/17. Michael R. Minton, Alcohol intoxication in a public place-first and second offense. Menacing. Resisting arrest. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial conference 11/21/17. David Alford, Leaving scene of accident/failure to render aid or assistance. Continue in two weeks. Tonya Johnson, Terroristic threatening, 3rd degree. Deferred for one year. Harassment-no physical contact. Deferred for one year. Michael Allen Wix, No/expired KY registration receipt. No/expired registration plates. Failure to produce insurance card. Theft of motor vehicle registration plate/renewal decal. Schools all across the county gave tribute to veterans on this Veterans Day Weekend. Kyrock Elementary presented a program today honoring local veterans in song, speech, and heartfelt thanks. The program featured two guest speakers, student-led activities, and refreshments for many veterans in attendance, along with their families. The students even lined up, shook hands with all the veterans, and thanked them in person for their service. Check out some of the photos below. (photos courtesy of Jodi Johnson) On this Veterans Day weekend, we pause to salute all our Veterans throughout the world, the country, the state, and Edmonson County. We had the opportunity to sit down with Wiley Willis two years ago as Mr. Willis shared some of the lighter side of WWII. We've highlighted one story in particular that involved Wiley quick-drawing a .45 and a picture of Adolf Hitler. Thank you for your service Mr. Willis. We miss you. Emma Rose Vincent Named Winner of Voice of Democracy Speech Writing Contest Darren Doyle, story and photos: Edmonson County High School students, faculty, staff, and administrators, along with dozens of veterans and their families attended the annual Veterans Day Ceremony at the high school. Today's guest speaker was Edwin Vincent, retired USAF Chief Master Sergeant (E-9) and veteran of the Gulf War who also serves as local VFW Post 6937 Commander. Emma Rose Vincent, a sophomore at ECHS, was named winner of this year's Voice of Democracy speech writing competition, winning $500 and was one of today's speakers along with second place winner Keylee Saling, who won $300, and third place winner Ava Kate Lich, who was awarded $200. Vincent discussed the differences that many Americans may have, including the current sport controversy over kneeling for the National Anthem, but the end result has always resulted in unity. "Though the idea of the challenges we face are too great for us to meet, history has taught us that our Nation finds a way to succeed," she said. "We should not lose hope in our future, regardless of what we see on the news. It is not in our people's DNA to accept failure, and that which divides us is not greater than what unites us." Chief Mstr. Sgt. (Ret) Vincent discussed "guilt" felt by veterans in a number of ways, including: those who joined but never fought, those that were called to battle but never saw intense action, those who served in battle but were unharmed, those who fought and served, while their comrades did not.
He spoke about how difficult it is sometimes to respond when someone thanks him for his service. He said he and veterans everywhere didn't serve for thanks or recognition, but because it was their duty. He also challenged the students in the gym today. "One day, you're going to be called on to defend this country. I don't know when, I don't know what the circumstances will be, but it will be your turn," he said. "Don't disrespect us, don't disrespect these men down here, and don't disrespect this country. Because one day...one day, you'll have to defend it. We want you to be prepared and be ready for that, and be willing to do it." Vincent also thanked Bank of Edmonson County for hosting the veterans breakfast and ECHS as a whole for always hosting the ceremony and being "a class act." He also thanked the Voice of Democracy sponsors, who gave a total amount of $1000 for the winners, which included Gravil Funeral Home, PVA Kyle White, and County Clerk Kevin Alexander. All veterans in attendance were recognized in addition to those that fought in the following wars or conflicts: WWII: 2, Korean War: 4, Vietnam: 18, Gulf War: 5, and one who served in the current War on Terror. Two female veterans were also recognized. Update: Statement From KY House Leadership Regarding Ongoing Inappropriate Conduct Investigation11/10/2017 Statement from Kentucky House Speaker Pro Tempore David Osborne, House Majority Leader Jonathan Shell, Majority Whip Kevin Bratcher, and Majority Caucus Chairman David Meade Update on Independent Investigation and Policy Work The following statement was released this morning from the leaders of the KY House Republican Caucus regarding the ongoing investigation that involves former Speaker Jeff Hoover, Rep. Michael Meredith, Rep. Jim DeCesare, among others: We wanted to offer a report to the media and public about the independent investigation we launched into the allegations and reports of inappropriate conduct swirling in the state capitol. Darren Doyle, story and photo: State republican legislators are facing serious questions in the wake of reports of a sexual harassment case settlement involving former Speaker of the House Jeff Hoover, who resigned as speaker earlier this week. In addition to Hoover, Reps. Jim DeCesare of Rockfield, Brian Linder of Dry Ridge, and Michael Meredith of Brownsville, along with Ginger Wills, the chief of staff, also were parties to the settlement, according to the Courier-Journal. The Courier-Journal first reported the alleged settlement over sexual harassment allegations by a woman who works on Hoover's legislative staff, according to a source that was unnamed by The CJ. Both DeCesare and Meredith were removed from their committee chairmanships pending an investigation into the sexual harassment claim, according to a statement from Republican House leadership. A request by the Edmonson Voice to the Republican House leadership for further comments was not immediately answered. Rep. Meredith was the co-chair of the Local Government committee while Rep. DeCesare was the co-chair of the House Economic Development and Workforce Investment Committee. The Edmonson Voice spoke with Rep. Meredith yesterday and asked him specifically about the allegations. "No comment," he said. Neither Hoover nor DeCesare have yet to comment specifically about the case. In a statement released today from from Kentucky House Speaker Pro Tempore David Osborne, he said: "We had a four-hour meeting in which Republican House members were able to air their thoughts and ideas on how to move forward. We heard a lot of passion in the room about the need to keep our Republican caucus united and focused on solving the problems facing Kentucky. I emerged from the meeting feeling grateful for my colleagues, who all care deeply about their public service. It is vital that we get this investigation right, and that we not lose sight of the policy problems facing our state as we do that. I firmly believe the Republican majority in the Kentucky House is capable of handling both issues. The message I took from the caucus meeting was: we will not fail the people of Kentucky.” State Police Need Your Help Darren Doyle: A Wingfield business was broken into early Saturday morning where a thief got away with two handguns. Around 4:30am on Saturday, November 4th, a burglar gained access to Saling's Country Store, located at 1800 Wingfield Church Road, by using a concrete block to smash the front door. Owner Keith Saling said the thief smashed the glass case in the front of the building, took two Taurus .38 Special Ultralight handguns, and exited the building in 36 seconds. Saling and his wife also live at the same property where their home is attached to the store.
"We heard the alarm going off, but by the time I was able to get up and get dressed, the guy was already gone and the damage had been done," he said. The store is a long-time staple of the community and offers a little bit of everything there, including items from thick bologna sandwiches to firearms and ammo. Saling was recently honored by the Edmonson County Bus Garage for 30 years of service as county school bus driver. "I'm thankful that no one was hurt and that he was actually gone when I got in there," he added. "I would've been scared and mad and I'm sure the end result would've been much worse than it was." Saling said there was around $2,000 worth of damage to the store. While the thief was caught on camera inside the building there were no cameras outside, something he says he plans to change. Although the camera doesn't show the subject's face, Saling is hoping someone might be able to see something that will be useful in tracking the criminal. He said the guns have been reported to the LINK/NCIC nationwide database, which is used by law enforcement everywhere to track stolen firearms. Members of Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church (Miller Hill), which is less than a mile down the road, said three different car alarms went off during a Sunday night revival service the next night. Members reported that no one was seen breaking into cars but it's suspected that someone tried to open doors while the service was taking place. All members of the community have been advised to keep your vehicles, homes, and other property locked and secured. The case is currently under investigation by the Kentucky State Police. If you have any information about this burglary and theft, please call Trooper Timmy Jewell at 270-782-2010. Man, Investigation Has Edmonson County Ties Rene Boucher (pronounced Boo-Shay), who was arrested and charged with assault in an incident involving U.S. Senator Rand Paul yesterday is also a Bowling Green anesthesiologist and a pain specialist who at one time was affiliated with the Medical Center at Bowling Green and Interventional Pain Specialists, according to multiple physician listing directories.
Local pharmacist and business owner Kasey Alford said Dr. Boucher once showed some property to Alford and his wife that Boucher had for sale a few years ago. "He showed it to us personally," said Alford. "Nothing seemed out of the ordinary at the time, but we didn't buy the property." Boucher's Facebook page shows a large number of anti-Trump and similar posts. The investigation is being led by Trooper Bartley Weaver, who is the son of Bart Weaver, a coach and teacher at Edmonson County High School. Edmonson County Helps Their Own At Annual Event Darren Doyle, story and photos: It was a record-breaking event today at the Edmonson County Community Center as bidders from across the county joined together in an effort to raise money for needy local seniors and children at the 13th Annual Santa's Secret Hands Benefit Auction. The event is coordinated by Mark Wardlow and Jeff Rich, among others on the SSH team, where 100% of all proceeds go to it's intended purpose. That purpose is to help provide Christmas gifts as well as necessities for less fortunate elderly and children in Edmonson County. Over $37,000 was raised at today's auction. "Before the auction even started, one guy gave me a $500 check. Another handed me $200. So many people came out today to help their own," said Wardlow, who is always adamant about not receiving any credit for the event. "Listen, $37,000 is a number you might expect to hear about an event in Warren or Grayson County because of their size. Sometimes others look down on a small county like ours, but we have another reason to be proud of our little community after today." The biggest ticket items were featured at the start of the auction, which included a Yamaha golf cart, a new bedroom suite, and three separate lower level UK men's basketball games, including one against Louisville. The games also included a hotel stay and Rafferty's gift cards. Those items alone brought a total of $12,000. Homemade pies and cakes were also popular items. The yummy treats raised more than $1,000. The group already raised $7500 at a golf scramble earlier in the year. That amount, the auction, and more expected donations could amount to somewhere in the neighborhood of $50K.
"This will simply allow us to help even more people than ever," said Wardlow. "Our goal every year is to help as many as possible. Hopefully we can even build a little surplus that will allow us to help throughout the year when someone loses their home or belongings in a fire or other emergencies." Wardlow also said that the group has filed for 501C Non-Profit Status that will allow them to do even more. A scholarship for an ECHS student is also in the works for the near future. On behalf of everyone involved with SSH, Wardlow sent out a genuine thank you to the entire community, all bidders, and all donors. He said the group is in the process of compiling a list of those to thank that will be published in the Edmonson Voice soon. "We had more bidders than ever, our crowd was the biggest ever, and when they told me how much was raised, all I could say was 'Wow,' I mean, that's huge." The amount raised at this year's auction was more than a 50% increase from last year's total of $24,000. Senator Reportedly Received Minor Injury Darren Doyle, story: A Bowling Green man has been arrested and charged with assault against U.S. Senator Rand Paul in an incident that happened at the Senator's Warren County home, according to Kentucky State Police. On Friday, November 3, 2017 at 3:21 p.m., KSP Troopers responded to the residence of Rand Paul in Warren County, and according to a press release, it was determined that Rene Boucher, (59) of Bowling Green had intentionally assaulted Paul, which caused a minor injury. No information was given on the nature of an injury and a call to Senator Paul's office was not immediately returned. A warrant of arrest was issued and obtained for Boucher and he was later arrested by Trooper Bartley Weaver. Boucher was charged with one count of Assault 4th—minor injury, and lodged in the Warren County Detention Center.
This investigation is being led by Trooper Weaver, and is still ongoing. Darren Doyle, story and photos: Two new officers were sworn in this morning at the Edmonson County Courthouse by Judge Mike McKeown on behalf of the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. Court Security Officer Brad McDougal took his oath today along with new full time deputy, Matt Skaggs. Both men are former law enforcement rangers at Mammoth Cave National Park. Officer McDougal recently retired from the Park Service as Chief Law Enforcement Officer with over 20 years of service. Skaggs served as a ranger for seven years. Sheriff Shane Doyle said the added personnel are much needed and welcomed by his office.
"I have no doubt that both of these men are fine additions to our office as they bring their experience and integrity to our staff. It's an added bonus that both Officer McDougal and Deputy Skaggs already have strong ties to our community." McDougal is a lifelong resident of Edmonson County along with his wife, and while Skaggs currently resides in Bowling Green, he and his wife are in the process of moving here. Deputy Skaggs and his family have attended a local church in the county for many years. Edmonson Voice Staff Report: A jury deliberated for only two hours yesterday in Edmonson Circuit Court before finding the defendant, Thomas Jaggers, (55) of Brownsville, guilty of attempted rape from an April, 2016 case, as well as other charges. Jaggers was arrested on April 13, 2016 at the home of an Edmonson County woman where he was accused of a home invasion and sexual assault. Detective Wally Ritter of the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office testified that he broke up the sexual assault that was taking place when he arrived. The jury found Jaggers guilty on one count of Attempted Rape-first degree, three counts of First Degree Sexual Abuse, one count of Second Degree Burglary, one count of First Degree Wanton Endangerment, and one count of Resisting Arrest. The jury also recommended a total sentence of 10 years in jail and a $250 fine. Jaggers has been out on bond since his arrest last year but that bond was revoked and he was taken into custody last night. Final sentencing is currently scheduled for January 17, 2018 and he will remain incarcerated until sentencing. Darren Doyle, story:
Although Halloween has just ended, Thanksgiving and Christmas will be here before you know it, and that means it's time to plan for the annual Lions Club Christmas Parade. This year's event has been scheduled for Saturday evening, November 25, 2017 at 6pm. The 2017 theme will be "Christmas Traditions," and those entering floats and other rides are asked to begin lining up at Edmonson County High School at 5pm. Participants are encouraged to toss candy and prizes out to the crowd during the parade route. Lions Club member A.B. Webb, who is also one of the coordinators of the event, said the club received a very positive response from the public by having the event on Thanksgiving weekend. "We had a great crowd last year and we heard that it helped jump start the Christmas season for a lot of people," he said. "If we have it any sooner, then it's before Thanksgiving, which doesn't really work. If you have it later, it begins to interfere with other Christmas parades and activities. We want as many to enjoy it as possible." For more information, you can contact Mr. Webb at 270-597-6623 or Anthony "Slug" Duvall at 270-597-7146. |
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