Darren Doyle, story:
As calls and tips came into authorities yesterday with possible information of a wanted man in Brownsville, local law enforcement responded to one call of a man spotted walking up KY HWY 259 N in Sweeden.

The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office said they spotted a man walking near Sweeden church and asked if he was ok. According to the Sheriff's Office, the man said all he needed was a ride but was acting suspiciously. Sheriff Shane Doyle said he asked the man for his name, to which the man replied "Kristian." Doyle said when he asked for his last name, the man looked at Doyle's nameplate and answered "Doyle." 

​"I told him it was a crazy coincidence that he and I had the same last name," said Sheriff Doyle. After questioning, it was discovered the man's name was Kristian Sosbe, (31), who was wanted in Indiana on multiple felony theft warrants.

Sosbe was arrested and transported to the Hart County Jail where he is awaiting extradition to Indiana.

Brownsville Police is still searching for Joey Coleman, (32) who eluded police yesterday and is still on the run. The police department has not released any updates regarding that investigation.

All photos by Darren Doyle and Moriah Peterson:
In addition to our fast reporting of local news and events, our readers love our high quality photos included with our articles. We take pride in all of our work, but we especially enjoy reporting events in-person and taking our own photos.

Here is a look of some of the most popular and most impactful photos we've taken during 2017.

Darren Doyle, story:
A Bowling Green man wanted on multiple felony charges escaped after running from police today on foot in Brownsville and is considered armed and dangerous.

According to Brownsville Police, officials received a tip that Joe B. Coleman, (32) was staying at a residence at the Parkview Trailer Park near the Edmonson County 5/6 Center. Police said they found the suspect and asked for his identification. They reported that Coleman said his I.D. was in his jeans pocket and as he went to get it, he ran out the back door into the woods.

Law enforcement chased Coleman into the woods but Coleman was able to get away.

Coleman, who is said to go by "Joey," is wanted for multiple drug and firearm charges and officials believe that it's very likely Coleman is armed.

"We believe that someone has either picked him up or he's staying with someone," said Brownsville Police Officer Dustin Harvey. "Because of the cold conditions, we don't believe he's still in the woods, but we need help from the public."

Officer Harvey said Coleman is 5'10" and weighs 170 pounds. He was last seen wearing a blue sweatshirt and black sweatpants. 

Officials are asking for any information or help in the search for the wanted man. If you see Coleman, you are urged not to approach him directly but to call 911 immediately. 

In addition to the BPD, the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office and the National Park Service is aiding in the investigation.

The Edmonson Voice has once again seen a record year for the amount of visits to our website with 4.2 million clicks in 2017, which is nearly double from last year. 

Thank you for reading and visiting the Edmonson Voice in 2017. Because of your support, we continue to be Edmonson County's number one source for local news and information by an overwhelming margin. We finished the year with an average of 16,000 weekly readers.

According to Google Analytic statistics from EdmonsonVoice.com, here are the top 10 viewed articles from 2017,  with the amount of site visits on that day. You can click on any of the links below to read the original article.

All of us here at the Edmonson Voice extend to you and your family a very Merry Christmas and we wish you blessings throughout the new year. 

Our office will be closed December 25 through January 1, 2018 as we celebrate with our families. Part of our sports crew will be covering the Rafferty's Caveland Classic December 27-29, and we will be available for emergencies or breaking news; however, messages and phone calls may not be returned until January 2nd.

Thanks for making the Edmonson Voice the number one local news source in Edmonson County. May God bless everyone with a safe and happy holiday season.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report: 
One of the lead actors from The Prayer Box movie, Grant Davidson, wasted no time in giving back to Edmonson County after the filming of the movie wrapped on Wednesday. He donated learning materials to Kyrock Elementary School and South Edmonson Elementary later that afternoon. 

Davidson donated dozens of Highlights Magazine state activity booklets to the schools. The magazines are enjoyed by elementary students everywhere.

"The Edmonson County School District appreciates Mr. Davidson's generosity and will make good use of the donated materials," said Jamie Carnes, Director of State and Federal Programs for Edmonson County Schools.

Grant played the role of "Wesley," in the movie, which is scheduled to be released in mid 2018. ​

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Fiscal Court met on Thursday, December 21, 2017 to accommodate for the upcoming Christmas holiday next week.

Road Report: County Road Foreman Ray Page reported that crews had continued road tile installation along with completing various backhoe, ditching, and mailbox rock work throughout the county. He advised magistrates that as winter weather possibilities approach, that while his trucks may be ready for salting and grading the roads, they sometimes get stuck while working. He said that should any residents call and complain that their roads aren't being maintained in a timely fashion, his crews would be back at it as soon as another truck can pull them out or a large tow truck becomes available. 

Sheriff Report: Sheriff Shane Doyle said the sheriff's office was dealing with a stopped up sewer drain that caused water to shoot up through a floor drain inside. Plumbers were working on the issue and hoped to have the line cleared as soon as possible.

Doyle also spoke about a more serious issue, which was the fatal accident on Sunday night. He said the accident is still under investigation by his office and he requested prayer for the family of the 16 year old victim.

Jailer Report: Jailer Hank Vincent reported 15 county inmates were currently being housed at Hart County Jail, with one on home incarceration. He discussed the possibility of installing radios in jailers' cars, as their portable units were grossly inefficient.

County Attorney: County attorney Greg Vincent said that he would be working on a proposed ordinance that would outline the payment and organization process for the county's responsibility for pauper funerals. The county is required to fund funerals of anyone with no next of kin or estate that dies in the county. It would be an agreement that would involve both the county and two local funeral homes, who would provide their services at the same costs.

Parks and Rec: Program Administrator Greg Hudson discussed the recent volunteer banquet that was given on behalf of Parks and Rec to thank the many volunteers that assisted the parks program over the course of the last year. He also announced that a concert would be held on December 30th, where Corey Culbreth is scheduled to perform at the Community Center at 6pm.

The next Fiscal Court is scheduled to be a night meeting on Monday, January 8, 2018 at 6pm in the upstairs courtroom at the courthouse.

Darren Doyle, story:​
Increased jail costs of around $35,000 and a newly discovered state-required increase of almost 10% in the county retirement system--an extra $76,000 expense-- has slammed a bare-boned fiscal court budget for the upcoming year. 

Judge Wil Cannon said at today's fiscal court meeting that the county was just barely paying their bills before local government dealt with the extra $111,000 in expenses, so what does that mean?

Just like any business or family budget, if your bills go up you have one of three options: 1. find ways to increase your revenue, 2. Cut costs where you can 3. Both 1 & 2.

In the case of the county budget, the only way to increase revenue is to raise taxes, or have a surge of incoming business and homes. Since the latter isn't happening any time soon, that leaves raising taxes, which Cannon said he will not do as long as there is even a slight chance another option will work. With both Sheriff Shane Doyle and County Clerk Kevin Alexander scraping their budgets to the bone already, forcing them to make more cuts is asking a great deal, considering the services that each office provides to Edmonson County residents.

Doyle presented a budget to the court that was very similar to last year's, which included one newly-leased police car at a cost of $7200 per year. He is already using part of the money not spent from this year's budget to purchase one new car.

He announced at the last fiscal court meeting that his office was going to come in around $60K under budget for the year, money that was saved by not spending as much on fuel and maintenance, thanks to the new cars purchased last year, and having one less full time deputy on staff for a period of several months. A deputy quit the office in May of 2017 and was not immediately replaced. Doyle took the former deputy's shift in addition to his own work schedule until another deputy was recently hired.

"I fully support the sheriff's office," said Cannon. "But if there's no money in the budget, there's just no money. If we all can start thinking of ways to cut back and save money, we can weather this financial storm until it blows over." 

Cannon said he was making cuts to his own office, such as cutting back his secretary's position to less than 40hrs per week and cutting expenses on meetings and conferences. He said that Parks & Rec would be expected to finds cuts and that extras that the county saw in 2017 such as sidewalks, the Community Center stage, and similar projects would be suspended as well. 

Doyle said he would never purposely put the county in financial bind and asked if the budget could be tabled until the next meeting, which would be January 8, 2018, in order for Doyle to comb back over his budget to try to find ways to accommodate the court; however, that couldn't happen because the budget had to be passed in 2017, and a special meeting couldn't be called within the next week. With the upcoming holiday, the court wouldn't have enough time to advertise a special meeting in a printed newspaper, which is required by an archaic state law that forces the county government to advertise in paper form.

After a lengthy discussion, Doyle agreed to cut the newly leased car out of the budget.  He said besides the new vehicles from last year, the two other vehicles being used by current deputies share a combination of a busted steering pump, no windshield wipers, and a homemade kill switch, rigged to keep the battery from draining. The court agreed that if any extra money was available at the end of next year, they would reconsider his request for another vehicle and the sheriff's budget was passed in the amount of $582K, $135K of which is funded by fiscal court.

The court also agreed to approve the budget of County Clerk Kevin Alexander, which works differently than that of other county offices. The County Clerk overturns fees to the county, and based on the needs of his office, the fiscal court and the clerk's office approve those numbers. The total budget approved was $2,561,585 in receipts with $2,537,734 in disbursements.

Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, December 19, 2017. The Honorable Judge John M. McCarty presiding.

Jeffery Chris Harrison, Theft by deception-including cold checks under $500. Failed to appear, $250 bench warrant issued.

James Elam, Terroristic threatening-3rd degree (four counts). Continue 6/19/18.

Mathew Avery, Operating on suspended/revoked license. Failure of owner to maintain required insurance/security 1st. Person 18-20 poss/purch/att purch/have another purchase alcohol. Possess open alcohol beverage container in motor vehicle. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial conference 1/13/18.

Derek Lane Weber, Possession of marijuana. Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty to both charges. Continue 4/10/18.

Curtis J Teague, Criminal littering (merged into second charge). Possess open alcohol beverage container in a motor vehicle. Pleaded guilty, fined $25. Total fines and costs $179.

John Bruce Patton III, Theft by deception-including cold checks under $500. Pleaded not guilty, continue 1/30/18.

Regina Kaye Smiley, First degree possession of controlled substance/drug unspecified, first offense. Possession of synthetic drugs-first offense. Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial hearing 1/2/18.

John Derrick Brooks, *OBS Possession of controlled substance-3rd degree-first offense, drug unspecified. *OBS Possession of marijuana. *OBS Use/possess drug paraphernalia-first offense. Possession of controlled substance-first degree-first offense-meth. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Continue 1/2/18.

Samantha Jo Gron, Theft of identity of another without consent. Unlawful access to computer first degree. Theft by unlawful taking or disposition all others under $500. Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. Pleaded not guilty to all charges. Pretrial hearing 1/2/18. 

Jordan Roy Sanders, Sexual Abuse-first degree. Sodomy-first degree. Pleaded not guilty to both charges. Pretrial hearing 1/2/18. 

Darren Doyle, story:
A Mammoth Cave man was arrested by the Kentucky State Police on Tuesday, December 12th, and is facing felony sexual abuse charges involving a juvenile.

According to the KSP arrest citation obtained from the Edmonson County Circuit Clerk's Office, Jordan Roy Sanders, (26), of Mammoth Cave was arrested and charged with Sexual Abuse (first degree) and Sodomy (first degree.

According to the citation, an unnamed juvenile female accused Sanders of both exposing himself and forcing himself upon her at the juvenile's work. The citation stated that the juvenile later notified authorities and through KSP's communication with the Commonwealth Attorney's office, a "probable cause arrest would be warranted based on the information from the victim."

He was then located at his residence and arrested, according to the citation. He was then transported to the Hart County Jail where he was released on a $10,000 cash bond on December 14th with restrictions, as confirmed by the jail.

The citation further stated that Sanders admitted to urinating in the presence of the juvenile but denied the other allegations. Sanders pleaded not guilty to both charges at Tuesday's Edmonson District Court. A pretrial hearing has been scheduled for January 2, 2018 at 8am. 

If found guilty on the sexual assault charge, Sanders faces 1-5 years in prison, and 10-20 years if found guilty of sodomy.

​*Comments without a first and last name and an email address are not published. All comments are subject for review and must adhere to the Edmonson Voice commenting policy which is posted on this site.

Darren Doyle, story and photo: Film still shots courtesy of Almost Never Films:
With only one day of filming to go, team members from "The Prayer Box" say they've been welcomed into Brownsville and Edmonson County like no town before. We had a chance to sit down with Michael Wickham, better known as "Wick," from Almost Never Films, the production company behind the movie.

"In L.A., it's all about 'where's my check,' but not here. Here, it's more about the experience," said Wickham. He is the line producer of the film, who is in charge of the budget and efficiency of the production process. He says his role is the "behind the scenes of the behind the scenes."

Of course, he's still writing checks in Edmonson County, but he said the hospitality of the local community has made the process much easier for his crew.

"We couldn't have done what we've done so far without the overwhelming support of this community. The overall hospitality has been incredible."

Wickham said that the idea of filming in the county was pitched to them by Rhonda Clemmons and the SOKY Film Commission. Through tax incentives that KY offers filmmakers and being a centralized location for their Nashville and Louisville crew members, they chose one of the few county seats in America without a single stoplight for the location of their movie, Brownsville, Kentucky.

"You guys had everything we needed for our film except a hospital and we were able to get that done at Twin Lakes (in Leitchfield). We needed a pool hall, a church, a food mart, and houses. We found all that here. It's a good thing we didn't need a stoplight," he said with a laugh.

​While Brownsville has been the smallest town in which he's ever worked, and they've limped through poor internet and cell phone service, Wickham said the process has been a "positive feedback loop."

"Because this town has been so good, it's helped us really enjoy this entire process and we've tried to put that positivity back into the town."

One of the film's stars, Reginald VelJohnson, better known as Officer Carl Winslow on the hit 90's ABC tv show "Family Matters," and Sgt. Powell from the "Die Hard" franchise, also sat down with us and talked about the very same hospitality. Check out our full interview here.

When asked about the film's budget, he didn't give specific numbers.

"It's independent filmmaking, you know. It's not the Avengers, but it's not a student film. It's the type of film where things are tight. We'll get scrappy. Everyone is covering multiple jobs and we have to work together."

Within 30 seconds, another crew member asked Wick for a credit card. "We need a garden hose," said the crew member.

"See? We go from one thing to buying garden hoses," Wick said with another laugh.

He couldn't say enough about Edmonson County's own woman of many hats, Rhonda Clemmons. Rhonda serves as local Chamber Director, Executive Director of Tourism, she helps with the county recreation and room taxes, and she's pretty much got a hand in anything in the county where an extra one is needed.

"She was insanely instrumental in the process of us coming here," he said. "She wants to see us succeed and she's taken so much initiative to help in so many ways. We couldn't have done this without her help. As some of our guys were talking at your Chamber dinner recently, we all felt like we've been stuck in a Beach Boys song because we all keep saying, 'help me, Rhonda...help, help me Rhonda.'"

Wickham said that his crew has six more films to make and while there are many pieces that have to fall in place that help decide where those will be filmed, he's optimistic that they'll be back in the area. "We'd be silly not to try." 

Filming is supposed to wrap on Wednesday then it's off to post-production. It could be around six months before the film is complete and ready for distribution, but Wickham said he's hoping to have a private screening in Brownsville for locals before the movie's official release.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
Many of today's actors and celebrities that rose to fame early in their careers for a specific role try to steer clear of them, and some pretend like the old days didn't even happen. That's not the case with actor Reginald VelJohnson, known for his Die Hard and Family Matters fame.

He played Sergeant Al Powell in Die Hard in 1988, which then led to the call for an opportunity to audition for Carl Winslow, a police officer and family patriarch of the Winslow family (and opposite of the infamous Steve Urkel), in the hit ABC show, Family Matters.

VelJohnson, or "Reggie," sat down with us last week on set of "The Prayer Box," a faith-based movie that was filmed in Brownsville. He's enjoying his profession in somewhat smaller roles these days, but he still embraces his earlier career that people still remember today. 

"I'm glad people still respond to those characters," he said. "I just keep going with it...although Steve Urkel still comes back to haunt me sometimes," he said with a chuckle.

"I was approached by some folks in L.A. as I was doing Die Hard and they wanted me to read for this part for a new sitcom. I'm from New York, so my plan was to go out to L.A., stay for a couple months, then go back home. But this thing, Family Matters came along and I ended up staying for nine years."

​Filming is set to wrap up on Wednesday, December 20th and he said he plans on heading back home to be with his family for the holidays, although he felt like he has a new family here.

"I can't even begin to count how many people have invited me to dinner...I'm serious. Everybody says 'you need to try my' whatever dish. Or, 'you think you like _____? Well, you haven't tried mine!' And the people are genuine. This whole town is really one big family."

"I think the movie here will attract more people and I hope that when I tell everyone how wonderful the people are here, they'll believe me, and they'll come here."

VelJohnson said he'll continue to embrace the Die Hard and Family Matters fame, but the one lesson he said he's learned through it all is that family still does matter.

"It does. And it's important to remember, no matter who your family is. I'm heading back soon to see mine, after I see Star Wars. I plan on spending Christmas at home with my dogs, but my niece is also getting married so I'll get to be with her. We're nothing without a family and you guys have that here in this town. Family does matter."

Reggie was gracious enough to jump into that smiling character we've all known and he allowed me to take a photo for the article. I took one click and it's the photo you see published. He also joined me for a couple of selfies. A half hour conversation with him reminded me that although there's not much industry, commerce, or a stoplight in Brownsville, we have something you don't find everywhere, and that's family.

​He said he'd definitely be back as soon as the opportunity arose. If he does, I'll invite him to my house; my wife makes a mean bowl of mashed potatoes.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
Most Edmonson County students are still in shock after learning that one of their classmates, sixteen year-old Christian Goodroe, a junior, was killed in a single vehicle accident last night on KY HWY 70, and today's school day focused around support and care, according to Principal Tommy Hodges.

"Since we're part of the GRREC Region, (or the Green River Regional Educational Cooperative), we partner with them with more counselors to put an emergency or a disaster plan in place," he said. "We've had that in addition to our own ECHS counselors as well as our counselors from other district schools."

Hodges said that plan began last night and everyone has focused their attention on helping each other. School work was put on the back burner for today as Edmonson County School Board members were also available at ECHS today, offering additional help.

"Christian was a good young man," said Hodges. "He was very involved in our vocational program and welding. This has been a difficult day."

He also said that part of honoring Christian was allowing students to share memorable or funny stories involving him and allowing students and staff to be there for each other.

"We've got a great group of people that come together when a tragedy like this happens. We've seen our students be there for one another, they're reaching out to the family to help them in any way they can, and there have been other students stepping up. Maybe some students that didn't know Christian are helping other students that are in need."

He also said that the school's Fellowship of Christian Athletes officers have organized a volunteer prayer at the school flagpole tomorrow morning at 7:35am for anyone wishing to attend.

"That was very touching," he added. "It's just one reason that we're all part of an extended family here at Edmonson County High School."

**NOTE: We have been contacted by Patton Funeral Home, who is in charge of arrangements. Those arrangements have not yet been finalized but they will notify us immediately when they become available. They ask for your patience as they work with the family to finalize all arrangements. We will update the public with the obituary as soon as it becomes available.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
A fatal single vehicle crash occurred last night near Cub Creek Cemetery on KY HWY 70 (Morgantown Rd) that claimed the life of Christian Goodroe, (16) of Smiths Grove. Goodroe was a junior at Edmonson County High School.

According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, Goodroe apparently lost control of a 2001 Dodge Ram pickup on HWY 70 when it left the roadway and crashed in the middle of two trees around 8:00pm on Sunday, December 17th.

The Sheriff's office said the cause of the accident was not immediately known. The driver was reportedly wearing his seat belt. Goodroe was pronounced deceased at the scene by Edmonson County Coroner Brentley Esters. Officials released all information after family members were notified.

Additional counselors were on site at ECHS today to help students with the sudden loss of their classmate, according to school officials. As students arrived at the high school this morning, many of Goodroe's friends silently stood around his parking space in remembrance. Many students were distraught as they made their way into the building, describing the atmosphere as very solemn. 

Sheriff Shane Doyle said the investigation is still ongoing.

"These are the most difficult accidents to investigate," he said. "This family definitely needs your prayers during this horrible tragedy. This is a great loss for our community.  We pray for comfort and peace during this time."

Also responding to the scene were the Bear Creek, Brownsville, and Kyrock Fire Departments, as well as Edmonson County JAWS, Edmonson and Butler EMS, The Edmonson County Coroner's Office,  and Brownsville Police.

​**NOTE: 12/18/17, 4:15pm: We have been contacted by Patton Funeral Home, who is in charge of arrangements. Those arrangements have not yet been finalized but they will notify us immediately when they become available. They ask for your patience as they work with the family to finalize all arrangements. We will update the public with the obituary as soon as it becomes available.

*Comments without a first and last name and an email address are not published. All comments are subject for review and must adhere to the Edmonson Voice commenting policy which is posted on this site.

​A few more candidates have officially filed to run for office in the May 2018 primary election. The following names have been released from the office of Kevin Alexander, Edmonson County Clerk.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Edmonson County Clerk Kevin M. Alexander has announced that the changes to polling places in District Three have been finalized with the State Board of Elections, and residents in that district should be receiving cards soon advising them of their new polling location. 

​Residents formerly voting at The Community Church at Cedar Springs will now vote at the new Rocky Hill Volunteer Fire Department location at 1498 Rocky Hill Road in Rocky Hill.  That building, known previously as the Atmos Energy building, now belongs to Rocky Hill VFD.  The precinct has been renamed simply “Cedar Springs” for identification purposes.  In addition, voters in the Rocky Hill precinct will also vote at the new Rocky Hill Volunteer Fire Department. 
 
“This is something we’ve been working on for quite some time” said Clerk Alexander.  “We appreciate the help that Rocky Hill Volunteer Fire Department has provided us, and congratulate them on their new building.  There are still a few minor things to do on the premises to be Election-Day ready, but we will get there.”
 
Now, all polling places in Edmonson County are located at either a fire department or a school, which has been a priority of Alexander's.
 
“I’ve said from day one that I believe in making our polling places as consistent as possible.  As a result of this change, all of our residents, county-wide, will now vote in either a school building or a fire department if they go out on Election Day,” Alexander stated.  “I’d be remiss if I did not thank all of those at The Community Church at Cedar Springs for the hospitality they’ve shown voters and poll workers alike the last few years.” 
 
Edmonson County’s Election Board is comprised of County Clerk Kevin M. Alexander, Sheriff Shane A. Doyle, Democratic Representative Markeeta Wood, and Republican Representative C. Robert Kleier.
 
List of Polling Places in Edmonson County
 
Precinct Number          Precinct Name                         Polling Place Location
A101                             Wingfield                                    Wingfield Volunteer Fire Department
A102                            South Edmonson                       South Edmonson Elementary School
B101                             Brownsville                                 Edmonson County Middle School
C101                             Cedar Springs                             Rocky Hill Volunteer Fire Department
C102                            Rocky Hill                                    Rocky Hill Volunteer Fire Department
D101                             Kyrock                                         Kyrock Elementary School
E101                              Lincoln                                        Lincoln Volunteer Fire Department
F101                              Bear Creek                                 Bear Creek Volunteer Fire Department

This article is pursuant to KRS 117.065 (1) under the notice to the public regarding polling place changes, and KRS 424.290 under “Matters Required to Be Published.” ​

“A lot of people throughout the state have worked very hard to make this plate a realization” Alexander said.  “Alzheimer’s has affected many families throughout the commonwealth, upwards to 70,000 people I read just the other day.  I certainly hope this plate will make more people aware of this disease.”
 
The purchase of the Alzheimer’s license plate can be made at any time (although prorated fees may be incurred) or when you typically receive your annual renewal card.  The plate renews each year in the licensee’s birth month.  The plate is $44.00 to purchase.

Moriah Peterson, story and photos: ([email protected])
The Edmonson County Industrial Authority held their annual dinner Thursday night at the Mammoth Cave Lodge. The guest speaker was Scotty Woodcock of Brownsville. His presentation was filled with history of Edmonson County and several humorous stories that were enjoyed by those in attendance.

The Industrial Authority presented awards for Industry of Year, New Industry of the Year, and Business of the Year.

YAMI or Yahagi American Molding Inc. won industry of the year for 2017. The company now employs 100 people and continues to expand.

New Industry of the Year of was awarded to Bluegrass Supply Chain.

​Cathy and Jason Johnson, owners of Whittle's in Chalybeate, received the award of Business of Year. ​

Both industries are located in the Edmonson County Industrial Park on Louisville Road. Whittle's has been a staple of retail in Edmonson County for many years with recent improvements and a large expansion.

For more information about the Edmonson County Industrial Authority, you can visit their website at ​https://www.ecindustrialauthority.com/.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Local emergency personnel were dispatched to the junction of Winston Davis Road and Sunny Point Road around 6am Tuesday morning to a two vehicle injury.

According to Kentucky State Police, Joseph Meredith, (29) was traveling west on Sunny Point Road in a 2001 Dodge Ram when Marilyn Johnson (59), who was driving a 1996 Toyota Camry, pulled into the path of the truck and both vehicles collided.

KSP said Johnson was transported to the Medical Center for non-life threatening injuries. Officials also reported that Johnson was carrying a passenger, Paula Meredith, who was unrestrained. She was also transported to the hospital for non-life threatening injuries.

Johnson had to be extricated from her vehicle by the Edmonson County JAWS, according to KSP. Joseph Meredith was reportedly uninjured.

Also responding were the Brownsville and Bear Creek Fire Departments.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report: 
V & C Talent, LLC has become the newest member of the Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce.

Beginning in October 2014, V & C is owned and operated by Agent Cheryl Mann. The agency has represented over 150 talented actors, actresses, dancers and models. They represent talent of all ages and ethnicity throughout the USA. Their primary markets include Louisville, Lexington, Nashville, Atlanta, Charlotte, Wilmington, Cincinnati and other cities in VA. Their office is located at 2413 Nashville Rd., Suite 317, Bowling Green, KY.
 
V & C Talent has worked with CMT, Lifeway, Elevating Entertainment, B4Entertainment, Rossetti Productions, Mainstreet Productions, Sword of Peace Productions, Lionsgate, Moore Casting, Jupiter Entertainment and VSM Entertainment in modeling, on screen acting and commercial print.

For more information visit www.vandctalent.com or  telephone 270-996-8475.
 
“We welcome all new members” said Rhonda Clemmons, Chamber Director. “We do feel that this new member is a result of the film industry coming to Edmonson County," she said.

Clemmons added that the 2018 Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce Membership Drive would begin soon and that the Chamber Membership form is available at www.edmonsonchamber.com.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
The Edmonson County School District was awarded KEMI's 2017 Destiny Award today at the Board of Education Office. The award was presented by the Kentucky Employer's Mutual Insurance company and is given to only 14 out of 24,000 policy holders each year.

The award highlights safety efforts in the workplace by policyholders and is a direct reflection of how employers like the Edmonson County Board of Education work to keep employees in a safe environment, according to client service manager Tammy Adams.

"This is only the second time that a school district has won this award," said Adams. "We can easily see how all Edmonson County administrators take workplace safety seriously, and that can make for a safe and happy environment."

Superintendent of schools Patrick Waddell said the award was definitely something of which to be proud.

"It's a win-win for our district and all our employees," he said. "Representatives like Tammy help get our employees back to work when there is an accident, which allows our district to have confidence in what they do, while keeping premiums down for school employees. We're very proud to have the opportunity to receive this."

KEMI Loss Education and Safety Rep Eli Roberts, who presented the award, said that the award was much deserved.

"With only 14 out of 24,000 being recognized, this shows Edmonson County school board's drive for workplace safety," he said. "This is a group effort and it shows just how much safety counts for all employees."

Darren Doyle, story:
As movie production continues in Brownsville today for "The Prayer Box," verbal commitments have been received for the filming of two more movies in Edmonson County in 2018, according to Rhonda Clemmons, local representative of the SOKY Film Commission.

The same company that is working here now plans on bringing another faith-based movie, "The Bethlehem Ranch," to Edmonson County in January. Clemmons said that crews now working in Brownsville said how impressed they've been with the hospitality of Brownsville and Edmonson County.

"They keep telling me how nice everyone is," she said. "They say that people aren't this nice everywhere they go." 

Crews today are filming at Brownsville Missionary Baptist Church where many locals are participating as extras. Scenes have also been shot at ECHS and other parts of the community with production being expected to wrap up on Dec. 20th. Sources close to the production crew told the Edmonson Voice that two well known movie veterans are starring in the local production and are now in Brownsville. They are: Denise Richards and Reginald VelJohnson. Richards, once married to Charlie Sheen, starred in "The World Is Not Enough" as a 'Bond girl' with Pierce Brosnan, and VelJohnson's most notable role was Carl Winslow from the hit 90's tv show "Family Matters."

Clemmons said a different production crew has committed to a film called "Pirates' Cove," and is set to be filmed in March at Nolin Lake. The movie is supposed to be about children finding treasure and will have similarities to the 80's hit "Goonies."

"This is why Edmonson County joined the film commission," said Clemmons. "This is great for our local businesses and our community. We're happy these companies have chosen Edmonson County for their films."

Local Chamber of Commerce Director and Tourism member Rhonda Clemmons says that the local tourism board is making plans to purchase "Welcome to Brownsville" signs, along with other tourist-friendly projects in the community. 

An architectural landscape class from the University of Kentucky under the direction of professor Jayoung Koo, has adopted Brownsville as part of a class project and has donated proposed plans for signage and other improvements around Brownsville and the county. Clemmons said that while many of their proposed plans are not economically feasible for the county right now, the project has been good for the Tourism board, as it's allowed them to set some goals to work toward.

"Right now our plans are to place signs as you enter the county that say "Welcome to Edmonson County, home of Mammoth Cave and Nolin Lake," said Clemmons. "In addition, we're also planning a kiosk to be constructed somewhere on the square that will contain tourist info about our nearby attractions."

Clemmons said that currently, someone from out of town may not know how to get to the Green River access from the square, and that needs to change.

"We don't have a ton of things to offer, but what we have, we're proud of, and we want others to know about them," she said. 

Future plans include possible signage near the Lock #6 site, Houchins Ferry, the courthouse square, and the city park.

Tourism is funded mainly through the county's Recreational and Room Tax, which the county has had trouble enforcing. One business alone owes thousands in back taxes, which makes it difficult for Tourism to promote local attractions as they'd hope.

"It's up to the county to see that people are paying their taxes," she said. "We hope to complete one project at a time, as the funding becomes available."

Darren Doyle, story:
John and Marsha Hammons of Otter Gap Road spoke at today's fiscal court meeting about the possibilities of Edmonson County allowing county roads to be memorialized in the names of fallen soldiers from Edmonson County.

The couple spoke specifically about Noah Bledsoe Road, near the Edmonson/Warren line, which was the home of U.S. Army Specialist Fourth Class Elzie Sanders, Jr., who was killed in action on November 12, 1967 in the Vietnam war. Mr. Hammons said that he was a childhood friend of Sanders and wanted to honor him in a way that has not been done before.

The couple proposed footing the bill for a new sign to be installed that would not rename Noah Bledsoe, but would state something similar to: "This Road In Honor of Elzie Sanders, Jr.," and include service and date information.

Judge Wil Cannon said he was in favor of passing a county ordinance that would allow such signage, but with certain regulations to ensure all county roads would follow the same stipulations. He also suggested that the memorialization would only be in the names of soldiers who had paid the ultimate price in battle, which was their lives.

Judge Cannon asked for discussion from the magistrates and all were in favor of discussing the steps to pass an ordinance in an upcoming committee meeting that would be held this week.  Cannon said that the county road department would be in charge of installing any signs once approved and that the signs would be sponsored by private donations, not taxpayer money.

The Hammons' spoke with the Edmonson Voice after the meeting.

"Elzie and I grew up together," John said. "We hunted and fished together, we rode bikes together, he was a dear friend. When he died, nobody really did anything for his family and he grew up on that road (Noah Bledsoe). The least we can do is honor him with a sign, and I don't expect the county to pay for it, we'll take care of the costs."

​​Hammons also said he had spoken to the late Mr. Sanders' sister, Linda Hodges, who also lives on the same road with her husband, J.D. Hodges. She is also in favor of the signage.

"Johnny (Hammons) contacted me and asked if this was okay because he didn't want to cause any hurt or pain and I said 'Oh, this is wonderful!' One of my biggest fears is that Junior would be forgotten after I'm gone."

Mrs. Hodges was 15 years old when her older brother was killed in action. She said that Sanders was an army radio operator. The medic with their company had both of his hands horribly injured and was giving Sanders instructions as to how to run IVs and give others emergency treatment. Sanders saved two other soldiers by giving them the care they needed. He was shot and killed in the process.

"I know he was my brother, but he really was a war hero," said Mrs. Hodges.

Sanders was posthumously awarded the Silver Star. 

Mrs. Hodges said she has met both men saved by her brother and they went on to live very successful lives. "They're both wonderful men," she said. 

Judge Cannon said he was looking forward to further discussion about the possible ordinance later in the week.

Edmonson County Fiscal Court met on Monday, December 11, 2017 at 9am in the upstairs courtroom of the county courthouse.

Magistrate Edd Rich was absent while magistrates Buck Simmons, Joe Durbin, Mark Woosley, Johnny Brooks, and Clark Wood were all present.

Road Report: County Road Foreman Ray Page reported that installation of road tiles were continuing throughout the county. There was limited mowing and trimming during winter hours while ditching was still ongoing. He also said that the backhoe, dirt work, and gravel work around mailboxes also was being continued.

Sheriff Report: Sheriff Shane Doyle reported that the first month of property tax revenue was $200,000 more in November 2017 than 2016, and that the county was already ahead of schedule on this month's tax revenue. Sheriff Doyle also reported that it appears his office will come in at a likely $60K under this year's budget.

Jailer Report: Jailer Hank Vincent reported 19 County inmates were currently being housed at the Hart County Jail, with one on home incarceration. 

Parks and Rec: Program administrator Greg Hudson handed out brochures including photos, event schedules, and an overview of services provided by Parks and Recreation. He announced that the bluegrass jam continues tonight at the Community Center. He said during the last jam, the event was held at the community center and drew the largest crowd yet. He also updated various events in the county through the end of December.

​The court also discussed possibilities of memorialization of county roads for fallen Edmonson County soldiers and you can read about the discussion by clicking here.

​The court also: 

• Appointed Roger Stevenson Industrial Authority board.
• Approved contract for Telecom Audit group on telephone/communication line system
• Approved the Sheriff's Fire protection report, Tax report, Excess fee report, and Property tax report, pending final audit
• Approved County Treasurer's November 2017 Financial report.

​The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for Thursday, December 21, 2017 at 9am due to the Christmas holiday.