Darren Doyle, story and photos:
James Edward Vincent was sworn in as Edmonson County Sheriff today by Judge John M. McCarty at the Edmonson County Courthouse in the lower courtroom.

Vincent, who won the primary election in May on the republican ticket, ran unopposed in the November General Election. He was sworn in early as a result of an early retirement from previous Sheriff Shane Doyle, who officially retired today.

In addition, both paid and volunteer deputies, along with court security officers and office staff were also sworn in.

Vincent and his staff assumed their duties immediately.

The remaining county officials will be sworn in at the end of the year.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Edmonson County Judge Executive Wil Cannon's request for $700,000 in ARPA funding for a new animal shelter was denied by magistrates at today's Edmonson County Fiscal Court meeting.

Cannon's request today came after getting an estimate on a building and septic system that would be constructed on the county property located on Veterans Memorial HWY (259/101). He said that cost was estimated at $400,000. There would still need to be exterior fencing, parking lots, gates, equipment for the facility, and landscaping for the area, all of which would be in addition to the $400K. He also noted that all money allocated for the project would not have to be spent specifically for that project, only. Anything left over could go elsewhere but he wanted to be sure enough funds were available to complete the entire project.

"I feel like I wouldn't be doing my duty if I didn't ask for this before I leave," Judge Cannon said to magistrates. There are only two fiscal court meetings left with Cannon as Judge.

He asked for a motion and second for the allocation of the $700K and no motion was made. No comments were made and no discussion was had. Without a motion, the request was denied and the court moved on to the next item of business.

It had been suggested earlier in the year by some magistrates to leave the remainder of the ARPA funding allocations to the next administration, since those projects would likely be taking place later. Come January, the fiscal court and county government will look quite different with only two of six magistrates returning, (District 6 James C. Vincent and District 1 Mark Meeks) with new magistrates T.J. Massey-District 2, Anthony Hennion-District 3, Mickey Johnson-District 4, and Gary Bagshaw-District 5 taking office.

R. Scott Lindsey will take over as the new Judge Executive with Adam Turner serving as the new County Attorney, Todd Vincent will be the next Jailer, and James E. Vincent will be sworn in as sheriff on December 1st as a result of an early retirement from outgoing Sheriff Shane Doyle. All 8 of the new members of county government are republicans.

Edmonson County Parks and Rec Director A.B. Webb and Parks Program Director John Kiernan presented gifts of appreciation to residents Danny and Donna Goins for their assistance at Chalybeate Sports Complex over the years. The Goins' property joins Chalybeate Park and Webb said they have offered help in several ways since the park was built.

"I knew I never had to worry about certain things over there because Danny and Donna were always around," Webb said. The court gave a round of applause to the Goins' at the presentation.

In reports, Emergency Management Director Terry Massey said there had been 22 fire runs since the past fiscal court meeting, eight of which were grass or field fires. He said the majority of the came from people burning trash. He reminded the court that there is a fall burning season statewide ban still in effect from 6AM to 6PM within 150ft of a woods line.

Sheriff Shane Doyle gave his final report by thanking the fiscal court for everything and said it had been an honor serving as Edmonson County Sheriff for the past eight years.

A submitted Jailer's Report noted there are currently nine county inmates housed at the Hart County Jail.

County Clerk Kevin Alexander gave a recap of the voting process in the county after the recent election. Alexander was at a conference at the last fiscal court meeting and could not give the report then. He said voting at all county locations were steady and everything ran smoothly. He also thanked the election board for their hard work and specifically thanked all the poll workers, who completed what he described as a "thankless job." He added that the county is likely to see some redistricting for some voting precincts where hopefully a select number of voters won’t have to drive so far in order to vote.

Parks and Rec: Program Director John Kiernan said that youth basketball is underway, where numbers are up overall and enough for both girls' and boys' to have separate leagues except for kindergarten age group.

Tourism: Tourism Director Vanessa Ulm reported that the new county welcome signs have been installed and have received positive reaction from public. They feature the new county logo that was designed by Edmonson Voice Director and Editor Darren Doyle.

Ulm said that the signs had been installed in seven different locations at entrances to the county.

The court also voted to:

• Approve to advertise Bald Knob Road Project Bid
• Approve to change point of contact on Opioid Litigation from Greg Vincent to Tammi Willhite
• Approve to re-appoint Sarah Martin to Tourism Board. Term ends 6/1/2023
• Approve to re-appoint Renee Childress to Tourism Board effective 6/1/2022-6/1/2024

The next Edmonson County Fiscal Court meeting is scheduled for December 12, 2022 at 9AM.

Madison Doyle, story and photos:
The annual Edmonson County Lions Club Christmas Parade was Saturday, November 26, 2022. The winners were as follows:

Best of show: Brownsville Missionary Baptist Church
Antique Car: Eddie Vincent
School: ECMS Cheerleaders
Civic: Brownsville Missionary Baptist Church
Commercial: Martin & Sons Plumbing
Horse Drawn: Audrey Neely and Drummer

In case you missed the parade in person, or the Edmonson Voice livestream, you can see everyone who participated in the parade in the slideshow below.

​Full video of parade with hosts Darren Doyle and Jamie Carnes:

Darren Doyle, story:
Judge Tim Coleman sentenced Alexandra Richardson (31) of Wingfield to 20 years in prison today in Edmonson Circuit Court as a result of an earlier guilty plea she entered for murder in the 2019 incident where she drove into Alexander Creek while intoxicated, and her 20-month old son drowned.

Commonwealth Attorney Blake Chambers said Richardson entered a guilty plea to murder, wanton endangerment-first degree, and a DUI. The 20-year sentence requires 85% serve time (17yrs) before parole eligibility.

The incident, which made headlines across multiple states, and was first reported by the Edmonson Voice, took place on December 2, 2019 on Oak Hill Road. The road had been closed due to severe flooding of Alexander Creek, which had risen over the bridge on that night. The Edmonson County Road Department had closed the road earlier and placed a large reflective barricade in the road to prevent anyone from driving further.

Richardson first told law enforcement that she didn't see the sign, which took up nearly both lanes of traffic, and mistakenly drove into the creek. She also first told law enforcement that she tried swimming with her son but a current swept him out of her arms, causing first responders to enter the icy creek to find him.

First responders found the unresponsive boy in the creek later that night. He was rushed to hospital and placed on life support but he died the next day.

Evidence at the scene showed that her vehicle went off-road and around the road closed sign and entered the creek, according to law enforcement.

She was later found to be intoxicated and admitted to smoking both meth and marijuana earlier. A search warrant was obtained for Richardson's residence on December 4, 2019 but she was not there when officers arrived, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. A search with K-9 indicated the odor of drugs and a subsequent detailed search of the residence revealed a small amount of suspected marijuana and methamphetamine. ​

Richardson was charged with murder on December 4, 2019 and located and arrested the next day. The case was investigated and handled by the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office with Deputy Wally Ritter, now with the Grayson County Sheriff's Office, serving as lead investigator.

"This case was the most egregious and reckless case I was involved in during my time with Edmonson County," Deputy Ritter said. "Dozens of first responders were involved with this case, and everyone was grief-stricken. I’m very glad that Mr. Chambers was able to reach a plea bargain so that the child victim received justice and all involved won't have to re-live it on the witness stand."

Richardson is currently lodged in the Kentucky Correctional Institute For Women where she is already serving a 5-year sentence for Criminal Facilitation Manufacturing Methamphetamine-first offense and Controlled Substance Danger to a Child-4th degree (from a 2015 arrest). Her 20 year murder sentence will begin when her current sentence is served, in approximately 18 months.

Edmonson Voice Report:​
Edmonson Circuit Court was recently held where a Grand Jury returned the following indictments:

Charles Walton: Leaving scene of accident, Possession of a handgun by a convicted felon.

Brianna Cowles: Sexual abuse in the first degree - victim under 12 years of age (10 counts), Sodomy in the first degree- victim under 12 years of age (17 counts), Rape in the first degree- victim under 12 years of age (5 counts), Use of a minor under 16 in a sexual performance (6 counts), Promoting a minor under 16 in a sexual performance, Possess matter of portray sexual performance by minor 12/U (12 counts), Distribute obscene matter to minor (10 counts), Dist. of matter portraying sexual perf (12 counts), Incest- victim under 12 years of age (22 counts), Unlawful transaction with a minor in the first degree- illegal sex act victim under 16 (32 counts), Proc or Prom use of minor by electronic means (14 counts), Unlawful imprisonment in the first degree, Criminal abuse first degree - child 12 or under.

Jordan Gray: Sexual abuse in the first degree - victim under 12 years of age (10 counts), Sodomy in the first degree- victim under 12 years of age (17 counts), Rape in the first degree- victim under 12 years of age (5 counts), Use of a minor under 16 in a sexual performance (6 counts), Promoting a minor under 16 in a sexual performance, Possess matter of portray sexual performance by minor 12/U (12 counts), Distribute obscene matter to minor (10 counts), Dist. of matter portraying sexual perf (12 counts), Incest- victim under 12 years of age (22 counts), Unlawful transaction with a minor in the first degree- illegal sex act victim under 16 (32 counts), Proc or Prom use of minor by electronic means (14 counts), Unlawful imprisonment in the first degree.

Randy P. Meredith Sr.: Rape in the first degree - Victim under 12 years of age, Rape in the first degree (2 counts), Sodomy in the first degree- victim under 12 years of age, Sexual abuse in the first degree (6 counts), Incest - victim under 12 years of age (2 counts), Incest - victim under 18 years of age (2 counts), Unlawful transaction with a minor in the first degree - illegal sex act victim under 16 years of age (25 counts).

Cody D. Brady: Escape in the second degree, Tampering with a prisoner monitoring device.

Joseph E. Dillard: Bail jumping in the first degree.

Edward J. Durbin: Theft of identity, Theft- receipt of stolen credit/debit card.

Jason Wheat: Possession of controlled substance in the first degree (meth), Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess, Prescription of controlled substance not in original container, Endangering the welfare of a minor.

Willie R. Norton: Possession of controlled substance in the first degree (meth), Drug paraphernalia buy/possess.

David A. Hulman: Obscuring the identity of a machine $500 < $10,000, Criminal poss. of forged instrument in the second degree, Possession of controlled substance in the first degree (meth), Drug paraphernalia buy/possess, Criminal trespass in third degree.

Michael Gipson: Flagrant non-support.

Bobby J. Lindsey: Flagrant non-support.

Taylor Portsmouth: Flagrant non-support.

An indictment is only a formal charge and is not an admission of guilt. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Darren Doyle, story:
Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander has announced that all EC schools will be closed on Monday and Tuesday, November 21st and 22nd due to illness. This means an entire week off school with the addition of Thanksgiving break on Weds-Fri.

NTI days will be used for the closure.

The entire statement from Mr. Alexander is published below:

Darren Doyle, story:
What began as a response to a grass fire resulted in the discovery of a deceased Chalybeate woman by firefighters last night, according to multiple local officials.

Texie Colley, (95) was found deceased outside at her home by firefighters last night around 5PM, according to Edmonson County Deputy Coroner Richie Jones. 

According to radio traffic from last night, the Chalybeate Fire Department was paged to the report of a grass fire at Mrs. Colley's residence at 4089 Chalybeate Road. Dispatch said that someone flagged down a passerby and asked for help. The passerby called 911 and that's when firefighters were paged, according to radio traffic. Shortly after arriving, a firefighter communicated over the radio to dispatch that he had discovered one deceased individual.

Officials said that it appeared the resident had been doing some cleanup at her home, burning leaves and debris.

The cause of death has not yet been determined. Officials said it was unclear if Mrs. Colley was injured in the fire or had suffered some sort of medical episode before or during the incident.

Kentucky State Police Trooper and Public Information Officer Daniel Priddy said that no foul play is suspected but an autopsy is being performed by the state medical examiner's office in Louisville. The incident is under investigation by KSP.

Responding to the scene was the Chalybeate Fire Department, Kentucky State Police, Edmonson EMS, the Edmonson County Deputy Coroner, and Edmonson County Emergency Management. 

Darren Doyle, story:
A Brownsville couple is accused of sexually abusing a child and using a cell phone to record some of the abuse. The couple was recently indicted in Edmonson Circuit Court.

Acting on a tip from a family member, the Kentucky State Police opened an investigation into the couple that resulted in the arrests of Jorday K. Gray, 31, and Brianna Cowles, 25, Sept. 19, according to their arrest citations.

Both Cowles and Gray admitted to police to forcing sexual acts on a minor child as well as recording some of the incidents on a cell phone and through video chats, according to their citations. The videos were shared between the two.

Gray is charged with:
• First-degree wanton endangerment
• First-degree criminal abuse - child under age of 12
• First-degree rape incapable of consent/physically helpless
• Incest, victim under age of 12 or serious physical injury
• First-degree sodomy, victim under age of 12 
• First-degree rape, victim under age of 12
• Distribution of matter portraying sexual performance by a minor, first offense
• Distribution of obscene matter to minors, first offense
• Possession of matter portraying sexual performance by minor under age 12 

Gray faces a total of 142 counts related to the above charges.

Cowles is charged with:
• First-degree sodomy, incapable of consent/physically helpless
• Incest-victim under age of 12 or serious physical injury
• First-degree sodomy, victim under age of 12
• Distribution of matter portraying sexual performance by a minor, first offense
• Distribution of obscene matter to minors, first offense
• Possession of matter portraying sexual performance by minor under age 12

Cowles faces a total of 143 counts related to the above charges.

Both were already in jail on indictments of First-degree rape (incapable of consent/physically helpless) related to a different victim, according to court documents. They are both being held on a $100,000 cash bond. 

If convicted, both Gray and Cowles could face as much as 100 years in prison, each.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
The Edmonson County School District received the KEMI Destiny Award of Distinction for Workplace Safety at the November 14th school board meeting. It is one of out only 13 school districts in KY (out of 171) to receive the award.

It's also the second time that Edmonson County has been honored with the award.

The following students and staff were also recognized at the most recent board meeting: (L to R): Principal, Mr. Shaun Stice, Hadley Garmon, Cash Hight, Kinlee Haycraft, Counselor, Ms. Brandy Kinser. Not pictured was Mrs. Julie Browning.

Recognitions are made for students and staff that have displayed outstanding behavior or achievements.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Three homes were damaged and a storage building was lost but no injuries were reported today in a structure fire, according to local officials.

Edmonson County emergency personnel responded to the call of a structure fire at 705 Stone Hill Road, just off the 4900 block of Nolin Dam Road around 8:30AM today.

Steve Sanders, Lincoln Fire Chief, said a storage building at 705 Stone Hill was fully engulfed when firefighters arrived. Severe damage to the end of the home was already underway but firefighters were able to contain the garage fire and keep the home from burning further.

Two other homes, between 30 and 50 feet from the storage building, also sustained damage; melted siding and a window that was busted from the heat.

Oddly, the top of a single tree across the road in the woods, approximately 150 feet from the burning structure, also caught fire. Firefighters were able to cut the single tree down and contain that as well.

Chief Sanders said all the homes had occupants inside at the time of the blaze but all were able to get out safely with no injuries reported.

Responding to the scene were the Lincoln, Brownsville, Kyrock, Chalybeate, Wingfield, and Cub Run Fire Departments, along with the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, Edmonson EMS, and Warren Rural Electric.

Edmonson Voice Report:
In preparation for the change in administration, the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office has announced the following dates/information:

November 23, 2022: This will be the last day the front office is open to the public to conduct business and collect property tax payments under the administration of Shane Doyle. 

November 24-26, 2022: Front Office CLOSED for Thanksgiving holiday.

November 28, 2022: Front Office CLOSED to the public to process all remaining mail/drop-box property tax payments. Property Tax Collection under the Shane Doyle Administration will cease at close-of-business, per state auditor's office.

November 29-30, 2022: Front Office CLOSED, per state auditor's office, to reconcile financial accounts and prepare for transfer of accounts to new administration.

December 1, 2022: Property Tax Collection can resume under new administration, barring no delays in financial reconciliation and transfer of accounts from the state auditor's office.

December 5, 2022: 2% Discount extended on all unpaid property tax payments through close-of-business.

A message from the Sheriff's Office:
We realize this is the beginning of property tax season and closing the front office at the end of the 2% Discount month may cause some confusion; however, with the extension date of December 5th, property tax owners are being given the same amount of time to pay with a discount, as they would have been given, had the office not been closed. This closure would have had to happen at the end of year, just as it is happening this month, so we ask for everyone to please have patience and understanding. Our front office employee has been working diligently and will continue to do so to ensure all property tax payments received through close of business on November 28th are processed; any payment received after that will be the responsibility of the new administration and again, we ask for your patience and understanding, as there may be a slight delay in the processing time for those payments. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please call the office (270-597-2157) or email ([email protected]).

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
The driver of vehicle that was submerged in the water at the Green River Ferry was removed unharmed last night, according to Mammoth Cave National Park officials.

Molly Schroer, management analyst for MCNP, said Park law enforcement responded to the call of a vehicle partially submerged in the river at the Green River Ferry Crossing on Tuesday, November 15th around 5:30PM.

"Park Law Enforcement and Maintenance staff arrived at the crossing and found a sedan sitting in the river with water almost up to the windows located around 10 yards off the north bank," Schroer said in an email to the Edmonson Voice.

She said the driver, who was unnamed, was still inside the vehicle but was found to be uninjured. Rangers, with the assistance of Edmonson EMS, responded by boat to safely assist the driver out of the vehicle and back to shore.

The vehicle was removed from river crossing around 8:00 pm by a local towing company. The park closed the ferry during the early morning hours of Wednesday, November 16 to inspect the vessel before it was cleared to resume operations, and the ferry opened back up at 8:30AM today; however, the ferry is still closed to trailer and RV traffic due to low water levels.

The cause of the incident is currently under investigation by park officials.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
An Indiana man was arrested on Sunday morning and faces multiple alcohol-related charges after his vehicle became stuck on a golf cart bridge on Shady Hollow Golf Course in the Cub Run community.

According course manager J.C. Ramsey, a man came to his home near the golf course around 6:30AM on Sunday, November 13th asking for his assistance because his car was stuck on a bridge.

"I asked him why did he have a golf cart stuck on a bridge at this hour and why was he even on the golf course, and he told me that it wasn't a golf cart, he drove his car over it," Ramsey told the Edmonson Voice.

Ramsey said it was obvious that the man was intoxicated.

"He said he needed me to get him some help and I told him I'd definitely get him some help on the way...somebody that would lock him up, and that's when I called the sheriff."

Sheriff Doyle said a KSP trooper was close to the area and responded while Doyle assisted.

According to the arrest citation, Craig Cox, (52) of Whiteland, IN, drove his 2018 Cadillac CT6 over several areas of the golf course, including hole number 15, a par 3 with a golf cart bridge, located on top of a hill just above the green. He also allegedly drove over the green on hole number 16 and across the practice green near the clubhouse.

The citation also stated that Cox told KSP that someone named Billy was actually the one driving the car and he left, but Cox didn't know Billy's last name and law enforcement didn't buy it.

Cox allegedly attempted to drive his car across the small wooden bridge when he veered off the right side and became stuck with his rear wheels off the ground.

He was arrested and charged with:

• Criminal Trespassing 3rd degree
• Criminal Mischief 3rd degree
• Possession of open alcoholic beverage container in motor vehicle
• Operating Motor Vehicle under influence of alcohol

The citation stated that Cox's breath test showed a .134. Cox was lodged in the Hart County Jail.

Ramsey said that thankfully the damage was no worse than what it was, even though the course will have to repair it.

"It takes all kinds, I reckon," Ramsey said.

Madison Doyle, story:
Fiscal Court was held today, November 14, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Judge Executive Wil Cannon with the pledge of allegiance. Normally, multiple county office heads give updated reports on what is happening within their department. Today, most of those people were either not there or stated they had no report. However, Sheriff Shane Doyle did announce his retirement to the court, which you can read more about here.

The court then moved into new business, which started with an update from Scott Waste Site Manager, Sam Upperman. Upperman said that since he last updated the court in August and told the court they were taking care of the issues at hand, he has received little to no complaints from the people of Edmonson County being dissatisfied with the service. Upperman said he feels as they have handled the staffing and route issues, things were going great, and there should be no more issues. Judge Cannon agreed, and said that the Judge Executive's office have also not received many more complaints about the trash service.

There was also a discussion about the second reading of ordinance EC22-29, transient room tax. County Attorney Greg Vincent advised the court to vote against passing the ordinance with its current wording. Vincent said there were areas that needed to be clarified or reworded in the ordinance before it was passed. After a very lengthy discussion, the court unanimously voted to re-write the ordinance, even though Judge Cannon was in favor of it passing as-is. After the ordinance failed to pass it was then suggested by Judge Cannon to hold a meeting with everyone involved "hopefully before the year ends," so that all parties would be in agreement.

The court voted for the following:

• Approve to accept Motorola Bid for Dispatch Consoles.
• Approve 2023 County Paid Holidays.
• Approve 2023 Fiscal Court Meeting Dates Schedule.
• Acknowledge October BGWC Shelter Director’s Report.
• Acknowledge Paul Vincent Proclamation.
  
• Acknowledge 2022 Nurse Practitioner Week Proclamation.
• Approve Regional Jail Board Travel.
  
• Approve to appoint Josh Roney to Tourism Commission filling Sarah Childress’ seat, term to end 6/1/2023.
  
• Approve to appoint Terri Webb to Extension Board, effective 1/27/2023. Term expires 1/27/2026.
  
• Approve to appoint Veronica Bendixen to Extension Board, effective 1/27/2023. Term expires 1/27/2026.
• Approve Resolution EC22-28, Adoption of Solid Waste Plan 2023-2027.
• Approve Treasurers October Monthly Settlement Report.
  
• Approve Sheriff’s October Monthly Fee Account, pending final audit.
  
• Approve County Clerks October MVAV Collection Report, pending final audit.
  
• Approve County Clerks October Deed Transfer Tax Report, pending final audit.
  
• Approve County Clerks October Excess Fee Report, pending final audit.
  
• Approve County Clerks October Delinquent Tax Collection Report, pending final audit.
• Acknowledge County Clerks October Clerk Storage Fee Report, pending final audit.
• Acknowledge Dog Control October CAD Report.
• Approve Sheriff Bond #2120725, Increase Rider.
  
• Approve November Cash Transfers.
  
• Schedule Finance Budget Meeting. December 9th , 8:00 a.m.
  
• Approve to move December 26th Fiscal Court Meeting to December 27th at 9:00 a.m. due to holiday.

The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled on November 28, 2022 at 9 am.

Edmonson Voice Report:
Edmonson County Sheriff Shane Doyle announced his early retirement at today's Edmonson County Fiscal Court meeting. He read the following letter to the court and has requested that it be published in the Edmonson Voice.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Veterans from Kentucky and Edmonson County were specifically honored today at the annual Veterans Day program at Edmonson County High School.

Highlights from today's program included a proclamation read by Edmonson County Judge-Executive Wil Cannon as today was honored as "Paul Vincent Day." Mr. Vincent is Edmonson County's last living WWII veteran, and at age 95, he humbly received a copy of the proclamation to a standing ovation. Vincent served in both WWII and the Korean War, for both the U.S. Army and Navy.

Vincent has been a longtime familiar face in the county, participating in most all veteran events, regularly visiting multiple churches, and serving as a deacon in his own church for over 60 years, in addition to several other church roles. He is also known for singing his favorite song, "I'll Wear A White Robe."

Gerald Carroll, U.S. Army (ret) and Commander of local VFW Post 6937 was today's guest speaker. He focused on several more notable veterans over the years that were from Kentucky and Edmonson County. Carroll became emotional several times as shared stories of those honored, which included those he knew personally. He also prepared a slideshow that was shown on the video board in the gym.

He also awarded the Voice of Democracy winners their prizes; first place was given to Ben Raymer, who was awarded $500. Second place was Addison Browning, who received $300, and Emma Claire Skaggs was awarded third place and $200.

All veterans that attended today's ceremony were escorted in one-at-a-time and recognized by Principal Jonathan Williams as the program began. They lined up the entire length of the gym floor and all received a standing ovation.

Taylor Atwell, FFA President, led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance, Rep. Michael Meredith gave remarks on the meaning of "veteran," the ECHS band and choir performed several numbers, as well as a trumpet soloist performing "Taps."

After the program, all veterans, their families, and the community was invited to the Heritage Centre for a free luncheon, presented by the Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by DAV Auxiliary Chapter 32 and Patton Funeral Home. A veterans breakfast was hosted this morning at ECHS courtesy of Bank of Edmonson County.

Darren Doyle, story:
The unofficial Edmonson County totals have been tallied for the 2022 General Election. As previously reported, Scott Lindsey (R) defeated democratic candidate Greg Hudson 3407 to 844.

Three republican magistrate candidates won: District 2: TJ Massey over Joe Durbin 415 to 325, District 3: Anthony Hennion over incumbent Charlie Tarter 420-286, and District 5: Gary Bagshaw over Steve Sanders, 344-208.

Judge JB Hines won over Dennie Hardin 2039 to 632, Judge Kelly Thompson won over Shawn Alcott for KY Supreme Court, and Senator Rand Paul and Rep. Brett Guthrie also won their respective races.

Melinda Campbell won the contested school board race and the following six Brownsville City Council members were elected: Melinda VanMeter, Ricky Simon, Justin Meredith, Lloyd Blanton, Slug Duvall, and David Campbell.

Both constitutional amendments had the majority of "YES" votes.

The full totals are published below:

Darren Doyle, story:
Republican candidate for District 3 Magistrate Anthony Hennion has won the race over democratic incumbent Charlie Tarter, according to the vote totals at the Edmonson County Clerk's Office.

TJ Massey (R) won over democrat candidate Joe Durbin in the District 2 Magistrate race and republican Gary Bagshaw won over democrat candidate Steve Sanders in District 5.

Full precinct totals will be published when available; total magistrate votes* are as follows:

District 3:
Anthony Hennion (R) 420
Charlie Tarter (D)  286

District 2:
TJ Massey (R) 415
Joe Durbin (D) 325

District 5:
Gary Bagshaw (R) 344
Steve Sanders (D) 208

*Unofficial totals

Darren Doyle, story:
Republican candidate for Edmonson County Judge-Executive Ronald Scott Lindsey has defeated democratic candidate Greg Hudson, according to the unofficial totals from the Edmonson County Clerk's Office.

The unofficial totals for the Judge-Executive race are as follows:

Ronald Scott Lindsey (R) 3407 (80%)
Greg Hudson (D)  844  (20%)

Full precinct totals will be published when available.

Edmonson Voice Report:
A Magnolia man has been charged with murder in a shooting incident in Hart County, according to Kentucky State Police.

KSP stated that on Monday, November 7, 2022 at approximately 5:44PM, they received a call of a shooting that occurred in Hart County where troopers responded to the scene located at 92 Eve Highway in the Magnolia community. 

According to police, Dennis Wells, 62, of Magnolia, was in a verbal altercation with William Kelleher, 31, of Glasgow.  Mr. Wells brandished a firearm and fired multiple rounds at Mr. Kelleher striking him in multiple times, KSP said. William Kelleher was transported from the scene to Baptist Health Hardin Hospital, in Elizabethtown, then air lifted to the University of Louisville Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries, according to police.  Mr. Wells was arrested, charged with murder and lodged in the Hart County Jail, where he is being held on a $250K bond, according to the Hart Co. Jail website.

The investigation continues and is being led by KSP detectives. They were assisted on the scene by Hart County EMS and the Hart County Sheriff's Office.

Darren Doyle, story:
The 2022 General Election Ballot has been released and contains both local and state races, U.S. Senator and Congress, plus the addition of voting on two state constitutional amendments.

While Constitutional Amendment #1 is lengthy, the main difference if it passes will allow both the Governor and the General Assembly to determine when the legislature meets outside of normal meeting dates and times, not just the Governor as it stands now. Currently, the General Assembly meets for 30 days in odd-numbered years and 60 days in even-numbered years and is must end by certain dates in the spring. If the General Assembly needs to meet for a longer period or later in the year, only the Governor can convene a special session and the Governor alone decides for what purposes. A vote for "no" would continue the current law.

Should Constitutional Amendment #2 pass, it would add specific language that would establish that Kentucky’s Constitution does not provide a right to abortion or require the public funding of abortion. If passed, it would not ban abortion in Kentucky but allow those decisions to be made by the elected officials of the General Assembly, same as it is now. The amendment only adds the specific language about the right and public funding of abortions.

In the national races, Republican incumbent Rand Paul will face Democratic candidate Charles Booker for U.S. Senate and Republican incumbent Brett Guthrie is being challenged by Democratic candidate Hank Linderman for U.S. Representative.

State Rep. Michael Meredith is running unopposed in this year's race.

In local races, most are uncontested with only four out of fourteen races with challengers. Challenged races include:

• Edmonson County Judge-Executive: Ronald Scott Lindsey (R) and Gregory Hudson (D)
• District 2 Magistrate: T.J. Massey (R) and Joe Durbin (D)
• District 3 Magistrate: Anthony Hennion (R) and Incumbent Charlie Tarter (D)
• District 5 Magistrate: Gary Bagshaw (R) and Steve Sanders (D)

Those that choose to vote straight ticket will still have to manually vote for non-partisan and write-in candidates should they want their vote to count in those races. There are several judicial races, all of which are non-partisan with some being write-in. Contrary to popular belief, write-in candidates must have filed to run as such. Random names not filed to run are not recognized. Currently, there is only one candidate eligible for write-in for the District Judge 38th Judicial District First Division, which is Greg Vincent. 

Additionally, there is one uncontested race where the candidate recently withdrew. J.C. Daugherty is still on the ballot for District 3 Constable: however, he has withdrawn from the race and his father, Joe Carl Daugherty has filed to run as a write-in candidate. He is currently the only eligible write-in candidate.

Other contested judicial races are:

• Kentucky Supreme Court District 2: Kelly Thompson Jr. and Shawn Marie Alcott
• Court of Appeals, second appellate first division: Jeff S. Taylor and David J. Clement
• Circuit Judge, 8th circuit division 5: Dennie Hardin and J.B. Hines

The final two contested races (both non-partisan) are for Board of Education seats and Brownsville City Council members.

In the Board of Education District 3 race, three candidates are on the ballot that include Melinda Campbell, Scarlett Roney, and Ashley Blanton Wilkerson. This race is only for voters in District 3, which includes Rocky Hill, part of Cedar Springs, and Edmonson County Middle School location voters.

Mark Rich has filed to run as a write-in for Board of Education District 4.

The last contested race on the ballot is for Brownsville City Council. There are eight candidates on the ballot where the top six vote getters will be placed on the council. They include Erin R. Milton, John D. Chidester, David Campbell, Anthony "Slug" Duvall, Lloyd T. Blanton, Justin D. Meredith, Ricky Simon, and Melinda VanMeter.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 8th. All polling places will be open in-person from 6AM to 6PM.

Excused early voting will be available Weds-Friday October 26th-28th at the County Clerk's Office during normal business hours. Early voting will be available on Thurs-Saturday, November 3rd-5th.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
A Chalybeate woman was sent to the hospital yesterday after a two vehicle crash yesterday during rainy conditions, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office.

Emergency personnel responded to the call of a collision around 11:30AM on Saturday, November 5th to Chalybeate Road in front of the Byrd Center. Officials said that Sharon Cowles, (58) of Chalybeate, was operating a 2015 Subaru Outback in the southbound lane of HWY 101, waiting for traffic to clear to turn into the Byrd Center. According to the Sheriff's Office, Roxanne Danuser, (57) of the Stockholm community, was operating a 2008 Dodge Avenger, also headed south. The sheriff's office stated that Danuser told law enforcement that after glancing away shortly, she looked back she saw the other vehicle stopped. She applied her brakes, which locked up on the wet roads and she collided with the Subaru, law enforcement stated.

Mrs. Cowles was transported to the hospital for non-life threatening injuries, the Sheriff's Office stated, where she was treated and released. Mrs. Danuser refused medical treatment at the scene, according to law enforcement.

In addition to the Sheriff's Office, the Chalybeate, Brownsville, and Wingfield Fire Departments, along with Edmonson EMS responded to the scene.

GLASGOW, Ky. (November 4, 2022) — The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Electronic Crime Branch arrested Kaven T. Eder, 21, on charges related to child sexual abuse material.

Mr. Eder was arrested as the result of an undercover Internet Crimes Against Children investigation. The KSP Electronic Crime Branch began the investigation after discovering the suspect sharing images of child sexual exploitation online.

The investigation resulted in a search warrant at a residence in Glasgow on November 3, 2022. Equipment used to facilitate the crime was seized and taken to KSP’s forensic laboratory for examination. The investigation is ongoing.

Mr. Eder is currently charged with three counts of distribution of matter portraying a minor in a sexual performance under 12 years old and one count of possession of matter portraying a minor in a sexual performance under 12 years old. These charges are Class-C felonies punishable by five to ten years in prison. Mr. Eder was lodged in the Barren County Detention Center. 

The Kentucky Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force is comprised of more than twenty-six local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. The mission of the ICAC Task Force, created by the United States Department of Justice and administered by the Kentucky State Police, is to assist state and local law enforcement agencies in developing a response to cyber enticement and child sexual abuse material investigations. This support encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, prevention and community education. The ICAC program was developed in response to the increasing number of children and teenagers using the internet, the proliferation of child sexual abuse material, and the heightened online activity of predators searching for unsupervised contact with underage victims. 

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Hall of Distinguished Alumni (EC HODA) has announced their inaugural class that includes seven inductees.

The EC HODA opened nominations to the public in September of 2022 which allowed candidates to be nominated based on specific criteria. According to a press release from EC HODA, their purpose is to honor alumni whose exceptional achievements and careers reflect the highest values embraced and promoted by the school and committee. The award recipients have distinguished themselves by contributions made in their fields of work, professional or public service, or in the betterment of humanity.

The list of the inaugural class includes (in alphabetical order):

• Dr. Kevin Clemmons, a 1978 graduate of ECHS. He has served the area as a dentist for more than 30 years. He has also contributed to ECHS athletics as a paid and volunteer softball coach, and his family’s philanthropy has tremendously helped Edmonson County’s sports programs. He was also a gifted athlete while at ECHS and was a member of the 1976 KHSAA boys’ basketball state championship team.
• Sgt. First Class Larry Hawks (Ret.), a 1988 graduate of ECHS. He is a 30-plus year veteran of the U.S. Army and a recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross Award, the second highest military honor that is awarded by the U.S. Army. Hawks has also been awarded the Silver Star, Bronze Star Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Southwest Asia Service Medal with 2 stars, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia), Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait), Special Forces tab, Ranger tab, Combat Infantry Badge, HALO Jumpmaster Badge, Static Line Jumpmaster and the Excellence in Combat Marksmanship Badge Bronze.
• Mrs. Jeanne Patton, a 1966 graduate of ECHS. Mrs. Patton began her long and successful banking career during her college years. She became a director of Bank of Edmonson County in 1981 and during her career, served as Vice President, Compliance Officer, Cashier, President, President and CEO, and then Chairperson of the Board of Directors in 2013. Under her leadership, Bank of Edmonson County grew from a $35M institution to what is now a $200M community bank in three locations.
• Bro. Jerry Patton, a 1961 graduate of ECHS. Bro. Patton has served the Edmonson County community for over six decades as an EMT, the founder of Patton Funeral Home, an advocate of Edmonson County, and a well-respected religious leader. Bro. Patton has served on nearly every committee and organization that has ever contributed to the growth and promotion of Edmonson County through his years of service and has helped countless individuals in their spiritual lives. After purchasing Don Sharer’s Funeral Home in 1952, Patton Funeral Home has grown into three locations and serves thousands in the area each year.
• Johnny Pete Vincent, a 1959 graduate of Kyrock High School. Mr. Vincent was a gifted athlete as a student in the late 50s at Kyrock and went on to be a local educator and administrator in Edmonson County Schools. He was a longtime principal at ECHS and Kyrock Elementary, constructively impacting the lives of thousands of students during his tenure. He served as principal of ECHS in 1976 when the Edmonson Wildcats won the boys’ basketball KHSAA state tournament. His positive and professional representation of Edmonson County put the county in a much different light than the preconceived notions of a small, rural community. A gifted Sunday School teacher and church leader, he has been a positive influence in hundreds of other individuals outside of school, and still is today.
• The Late David Webb, a 1959 graduate of Brownsville High School. He began his professional career as a local educator and served as a longtime superintendent of Edmonson County Schools. During his tenure, he oversaw the construction of a new high school in 1982 as well as millions of dollars in improvements to both Edmonson County Middle and Kyrock Elementary Schools. The relationships he built with legislators greatly benefited the schools of Edmonson County . He also held seats on both the KY Board of Education and the KHSAA Board of control.
• Johnny Webb, a 1961 graduate of ECHS. Mr. Webb established Southern School Supply in 1977, and built a large and successful company over the course of 20 years. He was elected mayor of Bowling Green in 1992 and established Operation Pride, an organization dedicated to the appearance, landscapes, and entrances to the city of Bowling Green. He is a member of Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame and a former recipient of Small Business Person of the Year. He was also a founding board member of the KY Tri-Modal Transpark Authority, now the home to dozens of manufacturing facilities and thousands of jobs. His family’s philanthropy has reached into Edmonson County for many years, helping local causes with no wanted recognition.

ECHS Principal Jonathan Williams said he was beyond excited for the inaugural inductees.

"This group of people sets the bar high in regards to distinguished accomplishments in many areas, but most of all, they have also found ways to make Edmonson County a better place," he said. "Getting the privilege to be present when five of the seven were informed and on the phone with the other two was truly a great honor.  To see their reactions, the tears, the humbleness they showed, and their words of reflection was truly special for me to witness. During the selection process, our committee received a number of excellent nominations, agreed on effective and fair criteria for choosing this year's inductees, and in my view, we had great conversations during the selection process. My hat is off to committee chair Amanda Lich for leading this committee, as she has done a wonderful job exhibiting professionalism during this process."

An induction ceremony dinner is scheduled for Thursday, January 26, 2023 in conjunction with the Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce at Tayvin Gardens Event Venue and Restaurant, located in the Chalybeate Community. Tickets will be available at a later date and corporate table sponsorships are also available.

The day after the ceremony dinner, the inductees will also be recognized at the Edmonson County High School basketball boy-girl game at home against Grayson County, on Friday, January 27, 2023. 

"I have been blessed to have experienced the great leadership, philanthropy, and the overall giving of the majority of these inductees and we have all had the privilege of enjoying freedom in the USA because of the service and sacrifice of men and women like SFC Hawks," Williams added. "I hope our students at ECHS choose to take a path like these inductees have, which is distinguished work and pouring back into this great county."
 
Each inductee will be honored with a plaque that will be permanently displayed at Edmonson County High School.