Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
A home on HWY 70 in Butler County was burglarized around 3:30pm on Tuesday, January 22nd, according to Beech Tree News.

According to the report, the suspect was a white male in his early 30s with short hair with tattoos on his neck and arms wearing a grey sweatshirt and jeans. BTN said he kicked in the door of the residence and was in process of walking off the porch with a large screen television in hand when confronted by the homeowner. 

After a brief scuffle, the suspect escaped by driving over an embankment.  He headed east on KY 70 toward Edmonson County.  He was driving a black SUV with dark tinted windows.

If you have any information, please contact the Butler County Sheriff's Department at 270-526-3676.

​​

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Emergency personnel were dispatched to the intersection of HWY 101 and 743 around 7:45am this morning to a report of a two-vehicle collision.

According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, Courtney Kemble, (30), of Brownsville was turning left onto HWY 101 from HWY 743 when her Chrysler minivan partially entered the path of John Bratcher, (80), who was driving a white Lexus SUV headed south on 101.  

Kemble's van was struck in the rear driver's side by Bratcher's Lexus and both vehicles came to rest in opposite emergency lanes, according to the Sheriff.

The Sheriff said that neither Kemble nor her two-year old daughter were injured in the collision as Kemble was wearing a seat belt and the child was properly restrained in a child safety seat.

Bratcher, who was also wearing a seat belt, was not injured. Multiple airbags were deployed in his vehicle. Sheriff Shane Doyle said given the situation and impact, he was amazed that none of the occupants in the vehicles were injured.

"Thank God no one was injured," said Sheriff Doyle. "That's one of our busiest intersections during the school rush, and it's a miracle no other vehicles were involved and no one was hurt. This is a great example of how important seat belts and child safety seats can be. We'd like to encourage everyone to take your time when school traffic is heavy and please watch closely."

Traffic was backed up for about a half hour in both directions while the scene was being cleared.

Responding at the scene were the Chalybeate and Brownsville Fire Departments, Edmonson County EMS, Sheriff Shane Doyle, and Edmonson County Emergency Management.

**an earlier version of this report had one of the driver's names misspelled. It has since been corrected.

The following closings have been announced due to winter weather for January 20, 2019:

• Brownsville Missionary Baptist
• South Union General Baptist
• Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist (Miller Hill)
• Chalybeate United Baptist
• Pleasant Union United Baptist (Steep Hollow)
• Rocky Hill Missionary Baptist
• Wingfield United Baptist
• Jock United Baptist
• Bee Spring Missionary Baptist
• Cedar Springs United Baptist
• Community Church at Cedar Springs
• Oak Grove Baptist
• Union Light Missionary Baptist
• The Lighthouse at Nolin Lake
• Cedar Hill
• Fairview United Baptist
• Ollie United Baptist
• Shadyland Church of Christ
• Poplar Springs
• Otter Gap
• New Grove Missionary Baptist
• Red Hill Church
• Beaver Dam United Baptist

We will update this list if more become available.

Darren Doyle, story:
Wanted burglary suspect James Aubrey has been located and arrested, according to a report from the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. ​

The Sheriff's Office said that Aubrey was located with a woman identified as Melissa Graves in a vehicle in the Cave Hollow Bay community on Friday, January 18th around noon. Aubrey was arrested on the outstanding warrant for Burglary 2nd degree and Harassment - Physical Contact.

During the arrest, a handgun and suspected oxycodone was found, according to the Sheriff's Office. Aubrey now faces additional charges of Possession of handgun by a convicted felon and Possession of controlled substance-1st degree. Graves was arrested and charged with Possession of Controlled Substance 1st degree.

Aubrey is also suspected of stealing the 2000 Chevy pickup he was reportedly driving when he fled the scene of a reportedly burglary, which is yet to be recovered.

The Sheriff's Office said that the truck is a blue Chevrolet 1500 model with primer spots, short wheel base, and single cab. If anyone has any information regarding the truck or suspicious activity in the Cave Hollow Bay community the night of January 16-17th, they are asked to please call the Sheriff's Office at 270-597-2157.

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Superintendent of Schools Patrick Waddell has announced that all EC schools will be closed on Friday, January 18, 2019 due to illness.

"We are currently at 87% attendance, which is borderline," said Waddell. "However, with the long weekend ahead with the holiday on Monday, we feel this is a good time to disinfect our buses and schools to try to stop the spread of illness."

Waddell also said that games for tonight and Friday night will be cancelled. The district game against Trinity scheduled for Monday night will be played as planned, due to it being a District 12 makeup game from earlier in the season. 

"We will only cancel the Monday game if there is inclement weather, but other than that, we need to keep that on the schedule," he said.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Two Cub Run residents have been arrested on felony drug charges as a result of an attempt to locate a subject with an outstanding warrant.

The Edmonson County Sheriff's office said they arrived at 1935 Cub Run Road at approximately 8pm on Tuesday night with intentions of locating the subject with the warrant. According to a press release, once deputies made contact with resident Melissa Carrier Hornberger (42), it was discovered that the intended subject was not on the premises, but Hornberger, had three outstanding warrants; one Edmonson County Bench Warrant for Failure to Appear on Flagrant Non-Support and Persistent Felony Offender charges, and two Hart County Probation Violation Warrants for Possession of Controlled Substance 1st Degree, 1st Offense (Methamphetamine) and Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess.

​According to the Sheriff's Office, deputies also made contact with an additional resident, Billy Joe Clemons (48), and consent was given to search the property. During the search, deputies found marijuana, a meth pipe containing what appeared to be meth, and multiple pieces of drug paraphernalia. 

Both Hornberger and Clemons were arrested and charged with Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense (Methamphetamine), Possession of Marijuana, and Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possess. 

​Hornberger was also charged with Tampering with Physical Evidence. Both were lodged in Hart County Jail. This is an on-going investigation by Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office, with further charges pending.

Moriah Peterson, story and photos:​
​One of the two annual night meetings for Fiscal Court was held last night in the upstairs courthouse. Around three dozen visitors were in attendance. ​It was the first full fiscal court meeting attended by three newly elected county magistrates in their official capacities: District One Mark Meeks, District Two Corey Vanmeter, and District Six James Vincent.

Road Report- Assistant County Road Foreman Greg Carroll updated the court on repairs for both backhoes, which have both been completed. Mowing is almost complete in district six and will be moving into district 4. The road department finished accepting job applications last week and will begin conducting interviews this week. The automatic gate openers were picked up and Carroll reminded the public that these openers are not a luxury item and are needed for safety. Last year Foreman Ray Page was pinned between the gate and their truck which created a dangerous situation. The gate opener's expense came out of the road department budget.

EM Director Report- EM Director Terry "Moose" Massey reported 28 emergency runs during the last quarter.

Sheriff Report- Sheriff Shane Doyle reported that since the beginning of the year, 44 citations have been given which included everything from speeding tickets to warrants served. The Sheriff said he has been working with KSP to update all their contact info for school and county officials. He also discussed the Sheriff’s Office assisting KSP in a double fatality accident last Thursday. Edmonson County Deputies were first on the scene but KSP was called in due to the nature of the accident.

Jailer Report- Hank Vincent reported that there are 21 county inmates at the Hart County jail and one on the home incarceration program. There were multiple ER visits and Vincent said in some cases they will work with the judge to get the inmate released for medical care but that is dependent the inmate’s charges. All jailer vehicles are reportedly in good shape.

County Clerk Report- County Clerk Kevin Alexander reported on the 2018 taxes for the county. The following numbers were reported.  $27,711.61 in delinquent tax, $55,493.64 of transfer taxes, $132,892.28 in motor vehicle tax and $304,792.22 in excess fees. These excess fees go back into the community and are used for Parks & Rec, courthouse and community center updates, etc.

Parks & Rec Report- Program administrator John Kiernan shared that little league basketball is currently having games. April 13th is the start of baseball season. The Edmonson County Easter egg hunt will be held on April 20th. The 2019 Freedom Fest date has been set for June 28th.

Rhonda Clemmons reported that Chamber of Commerce is beginning their 2019 membership drive. Forms can be picked up on the Chamber door in the courthouse or signing up online at edmonsonchamber.com. In addition to the membership drive the Chamber is planning a free breakfast in the first quarter that will be sponsored by Edmonson Health Care Center and a free luncheon in May sponsored by St. Johns.

She also announced the EC Planning commission will meet Tuesday, January 22nd in the downstairs office at 7pm. All forms and plats must be turned in the Friday before to be on the agenda. If anyone has items to turn in they can call 270-597-2222 to setup a drop off time and to go over documents.

Clemmons also noted that The Edmonson County Tourism Commission is currently working with the SOKY Film Commission to have language changed in the KY Film Incentive Program to restore the program back to what it was and is seeking letters of support. Edmonson County Tourism is also currently working with Caveland Marketing to distribute alternative visitor info to cave visitors that are being turned away due to no cave tours, in hopes that these visitors will still find other things to do in the area. She also updated the court on room and rec tax collection. Fourth quarter dues went out and are due January 15th.  A new tax collection program for Airbnb is being written so that their website will honor the taxing districts that rentals are in and Edmonson County will get their tax money from web hosting sites.

Scott Waste representative Mr. Pete Reckard, was at the meeting tonight to address questions or concerns from the court and public. Commercial trash pickup for dumpsters was discussed due to the price increase. The county will be looking into other company options for commercial pickup. The Scott Waste contract is due to renew in June.

​The court also discussed whether or not to continue monthly allowances for employee telephone bills. Judge Executive Wil Cannon said that if they continue to give monthly allowances for cell phone bills he recommends the court deciding on a guideline for cellphone use. County Attorney Greg Vincent also expressed his support in developing a policy for cellphone use. The court voted to keep the allowances the way they are until a policy is put into place rather than eliminating the cellphone allowances. 

The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled for January 28, 2019 at 9am in the upstairs courtroom. ​

Edmonson Voice Staff Report: ​
On Thursday afternoon at 3:28 pm (CST,)  the Kentucky State Police Post 3, Bowling Green received a call for service in reference to a two vehicle injury collision involving a passenger car and a commercial vehicle.  The collision had occurred near 22512 Louisville Road (US 31W,) approximately one mile south of Park City in Edmonson County.  Trooper Daniel Priddy, along with other KSP personnel, responded to the collision.   
 
A preliminary investigation has revealed that James E. Arms (32) of Park City, KY was operating a 1999 Chevrolet passenger car traveling southbound on Louisville Road when his vehicle exited the right shoulder of the roadway briefly.  Arms reentered the roadway overcorrecting, causing his vehicle to rotate counter-clockwise across the yellow centerline of the roadway, into the path of travel of Stefanee Dawkins (26) of Scottsdale, GA, who was traveling northbound in a 2016 Freightliner semi truck.  Dawkins’ vehicle then struck the passenger side of Arms’ vehicle.   
 
Both Arms and a passenger, Lavonda J. Flannery (45) of Rocky Hill, were pronounced deceased on scene by the Edmonson County Coroner’s Office.  They were unrestrained at the time of the collision.  Stefanee Dawkins did not report any injury.
 
The  investigation continues and is currently being led by Trooper Daniel Priddy.  He was assisted on scene by other KSP personnel, Edmonson County Sheriff’s Department, Park City, Chalybeate, and Rocky Hill Fire Departments, Edmonson County Coroner’s Office, Edmonson County JAWS, Medical Center EMS and Edmonson County Emergency Management Director Moose Massey.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
The Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office and Kentucky State Police are currently on the scene of an accident near the Edmonson County and Barren County line. All lanes of 31W/Louisville Rd. are shut down at the 22,000th block. Traffic is completely shut down and there is currently an unknown ETA of when the road will reopen. The Park City Fire Department, Brownsville Fire Department, Med Center EMS, Edmonson County EMS, and the State Highway Department are also on the scene. 

Edmonson District Court was held on Tuesday, January 8, 2019. The Hon. Judge Joseph B. Hines presiding.

Linda Faye Wilson, Operating motor vehicle under the influence of drugs/alcohol. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 4/9/19.

​Wendell Leon Reynolds Jr., Assault 4th degree domestic violence minor injury. Convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Wanton endangerment-1st degree. Trafficking marijuana, less than 8oz- 1st offense. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial hearing 1/22/19.

Douglas B. Sanders, Violation of Kentucky E.P.O/D.V.O. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 1/22/19.

Bennie Douglas Sanders, Assault 4th degree domestic violence minor injury. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 1/22/19.

James D. Wells, Operating motor vehicle under influence of alcohol/drugs, aggravator, 1st offense. Judgement: show cause orders signed.  

​Priscilla S. Towe, Operating on suspended/revoked operator’s license. Pleaded not guilty. Pretrial conference 2/12/19.  

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Last week, President Donald Trump signed into law Congressman Brett Guthrie’s (KY-02) Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act (H.R. 4256/S. 2076) into law.
 
“Alzheimer’s disease is devastating on multiple levels: For the person who suffers with it, and for the families and friends who must help their loved ones fight this terrible disease,” said Guthrie. “As the number of Americans with Alzheimer’s – currently over 5 million people – is expected to rise, we need more information about what causes it and how to help treat it. I was proud to introduce the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act to address this need. I want to thank the many advocates in Kentucky and the around the country who are fighting Alzheimer’s every day, my fellow members of Congress and the Senate for supporting this bill, and President Trump for signing the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act into law. I look forward to seeing this bill implemented, and I will continue to support Alzheimer’s research in Congress.”
 
The BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act will create a public health infrastructure to support prevention, treatment, and care for patients with Alzheimer’s and related neurological diseases. Guthrie introduced the bipartisan House bill with Rep. Paul Tonko (NY-20), and the Senate companion was introduced by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), and Tim Kaine (D-VA). Following its passage in the House and Senate late last year, President Trump signed the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act into law last week.
 
Specifically, the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act will:

Build an Alzheimer’s and related dementias network by establishing Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Public Health Centers of Excellence and awarding cooperative agreements to public health departments, which will help the Centers and state, local and tribal public health departments develop and carry out Alzheimer’s interventions. This crucial support will help the Centers and public health departments across the country strengthen their efforts aimed at increasing early detection and diagnosis, reducing risk, and preventing unnecessary hospitalizations of people living with Alzheimer's and related dementias.   

​Require robust data analysis and reporting through Cooperative Agreements with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that will ensure data on Alzheimer’s, cognitive decline, caregiving, and health disparities are analyzed and disseminated to the public in a timely manner.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
The Department for Public Health (DPH), within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), now reports “widespread” flu activity in Kentucky for the first time this flu season. Widespread is the highest level of flu activity, which indicates increased flu cases or flu outbreaks in at least half of the Commonwealth’s regions.

“We strongly encourage anyone who hasn’t received a flu vaccine, particularly children six months and older and those people at high risk for complications related to the flu, to get a flu shot,” said Jeff Howard, M.D., commissioner of DPH. “Also remember to cover your cough and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth because germs are spread this way. Be sure to frequently wash your hands with soap and water and stay home if you are sick with flu-like illness.”

DPH reports weekly influenza activity to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The weekly report is located online at https://healthalerts.ky.gov/Pages/FluActivity.aspx and is updated each Friday by noon. Kentucky currently is reporting 1,457 laboratory-confirmed cases of flu. The report consists of laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza that are defined by molecular virus testing and positive virus culture test results. Rapid positive influenza tests are not included in this report, but are used as an indicator of flu-like illness circulating across the state.

The number of flu cases to date this season (1,457) is comparable to the number of cases at the same time last season (1,411). One of the hardest hit areas currently is Louisville Metro, which has confirmed more than 550 cases recently. Overall, approximately 882 cases have been confirmed in Louisville Metro this flu season, which is up from just 179 cases confirmed at the same time in the previous flu season.

Four adult deaths and one pediatric death have now been linked to the flu in Kentucky this flu season. At this time in the last flu season Kentucky had twelve flu-related deaths, all adults. During the entire flu season there were 333 flu-related deaths in Kentucky last year, five of which were pediatric.   

​

​The CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends flu vaccine for all individuals six months of age and older. People who are strongly encouraged to receive the flu vaccine because they may be at higher risk for complications or negative consequences include:

• Children age six months through 59 months;
•  Women who are or will be pregnant during the influenza season; • Persons 50 years of age or older;
• Persons with extreme obesity (Body Mass Index of 40 or greater);
• Persons aged six months and older with chronic health problems;
• Residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities;
• Household contacts (including children) and caregivers of children aged ≤59 months (i.e., aged <five years, particularly contacts of children aged <six months) and adults aged ≥50 years;
• Household contacts and caregivers or people who live with a person at high-risk for complications from the flu; and
• Health care workers, including physicians, nurses, and other workers in inpatient and outpatient-care settings, medical emergency-response workers (e.g., paramedics and emergency medical technicians), employees of nursing home and long-term care facilities who have contact with patients or residents, and students in these professions who will have contact with patients.

Adequate supplies of flu vaccine are available for this year’s season. Vaccinations can be given any time during the flu season but providers are encouraged to administer the vaccine as soon as possible.

During the 2016-17 and 2017-18 influenza seasons, ACIP recommended that Flu Mist not be used because of concerns about low effectiveness against influenza A (H1N1). However, ACIP recommends that FluMist once again be an option for vaccination during the 2018-2019 influenza season for persons for whom it is age-appropriate and who have no medical contraindications. The change in recommendation is a result of the influenza A (H1N1) strain being changed in the current FluMist formulation. 

Due to the timing of the decision by the ACIP regarding use of FluMist, the Kentucky Vaccines for Children Program (VFC) will not be offering FluMist for VFC or KCHIP patients during the 2018-2019 influenza season.  However, some private providers will offer FluMist this season for their patients.

The flu vaccine is especially important in light of the severe season experienced last year across the U.S. The CDC reports that more than 900,000 flu-related hospitalizations occurred and more than 80,000 people died as a result of flu. Of the pediatric flu deaths reported in last year’s season, more than one-third of these occurred among healthy children between the ages of 6 months and 4 years.

It is especially important for pregnant women to be vaccinated before or during pregnancy.  Antibodies cross the placenta and provide immunity to infants up to 6 months of age, when the infant is eligible to receive their dose of flu vaccine.

DPH relies on sites such as doctors’ offices, hospitals and health departments to help track the level of influenza activity in the state and to identify which strains of the flu are circulating in Kentucky. These voluntary sites collect data and report influenza-like illness (ILI) cases according to age groups each week. This sampling represents only a small percentage of influenza cases for the state, but contributes to the ongoing assessment of flu activity in the Commonwealth and helps determine the weekly level of flu activity.

Infection with the flu virus can cause fever, headache, cough, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing and body aches.  Flu can be very contagious.  For more information on influenza or the availability of flu vaccine, Kentuckians should contact their primary care medical provider or local health department. 

Influenza information is also available online at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm.

Madison Doyle, photos:
The 2019 ECHS Basketball Homecoming took place on Friday, January 4th as 16 young ladies, their escorts, attendants, and last year's queen took center court in Brownsville. 

Macy Wrye was crowned senior queen by last year's winner, Abby Alexander. Macy's escort was Preston Dunn.

The homecoming court was made up of Freshman Princess Rachel Hennion, escorted by Austin Lindsey; Sophomore Princess Heather Todd, escorted by Nick Johnson; and Junior Princess Mia Goad, escorted by Brock Stethen.

Little Miss Wildcat and Little Mr. Wildcat attendants were London Simon, escorted by Tripp Woods, and Honor White, escorted by Jase Ellis.

The Lady Cats enjoyed a win over district opponent Trinity 67-54, while the boys were edged in a tough battle 62-59.

Two Facing Multiple Felonies After Pursuit, Vehicle Recovered

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
A short pursuit in Warren County has resulted in the arrest of two individuals and the recovery of a stolen vehicle from the Wingfield community, according to the Warren County and Edmonson County Sheriff's Offices.

Early on New Year's Day, a Warren County deputy reported that he noticed a vehicle at the Lonnie White Boat Ramp before 8am, according to a press release. As the deputy turned into the boat ramp parking area, the vehicle sped away on Barren River Road. According to officials, the vehicle failed to stop when the deputy activated his emergency lights and a short pursuit began.

Deputies discovered the vehicle had been reported stolen out of Edmonson County and was eventually stopped with assistance from Bowling Green Police and Kentucky State Police. According to the release, the driver was identified as Joseph Raby (36) of Bowling Green, who was arrested without incident; however, Mya Bailey (40), also of Bowling Green, was taken into custody by KSP after an attempt to flee the vehicle, according to officials. 

Both were arrested and lodged in the Warren County Jail. The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office confirmed the vehicle had been reported stolen by Ms. Barbara Buchannan in Wingfield a few days ago.

​Raby was charged with speeding 15 mph over the limit, reckless driving, operating on a suspended license, driving under the influence-aggravated circumstance-first-degree, fleeing and evading police (motor vehicle) first degree, Wanton endangerment-police officer (18 counts), theft by unlawful taking or disposition (automobile, $500 or more-under $10,000), tampering with physical evidence, Possession of a controlled substance (meth, first degree) drug paraphernalia- buy/possess, and criminal mischief-first degree.

Bailey was charged with receiving stolen property under $10,000, tampering with physical evidence,  possession of a controlled substance-first degree- third or more offense; drug paraphernalia-buy/possess, and public intoxication.

An Edmonson County Grand Jury returned the following indictments in December, 2019. 

Robert Trent, Possession of controlled substance, first degree, second offense, meth. Tampering with physical evidence. Drug paraphernalia-buy/possess.

​Brian Spencer, Flagrant Non-support. Persistent felony offender, second degree.

Michael L. McKinney, Criminal possession of forged instrument first degree (two counts). Failure to produce insurance card. No registration receipt. Operating motor vehicle with expired operator's license. Drug Paraphernalia-buy/possess. Possession of marijuana. Possession of controlled substance first degree, meth. Prescription controlled substance not in original container. Theft of motor vehicle registration plate/decal. Unlawful possession of meth precursor first offense. Possession of controlled substance first degree. Persistent felony offender first degree. 

​Jamario Coleman, Flagrant non-support.

Annie J. Bush, Arson second degree. Wanton endangerment first degree (8 counts). Criminal mischief first degree.

Tara E. Burns, Intimidating a person in the legal process (two counts). Menacing (two counts). Retaliating against participant in the legal process (two counts). 

Brandon Blanton, Bail jumping first degree. Persistent felony offender first degree.

Shawn Besau, Unlawful taking over $500.

Michael Joseph McGrew, Possession of controlled substance first degree, meth. Cultivate in marijuana, less than 5 plants. Unlawful possession of meth precursor. Persistent felony offender first degree.

Zachary A. Kinser, Criminal mischief first degree. Theft by unlawful taking under $500.

Silas D. Kinser,  Burglary second degree. Persistent felony offender first degree. 

Alexander L. Jennings, Wanton endangerment first degree. Complicity to assault first degree. Assault fourth degree.

Kory Houchin, Flagrant non-support.

​Cheryl L. Henry, Possession of controlled substance first degree, meth. Cultivate in marijuana, less than 5 plants. Unlawful possession of meth precursor. 

Charles Henry, Possession of controlled substance first degree, meth. Cultivate in marijuana, less than 5 plants. Unlawful possession of meth precursor. Persistent felony offender, second degree.

Michael E. Hartenhoff, Receiving stolen property over $500. Tampering with physical evidence.

Billy Hardin, Fleeing or evading police in motor vehicle, first degree. Three counts of wanton endangerment first degree.  Three counts of wanton endangerment first degree, police officer.  Speeding 26mph or greater over speed limit. Reckless driving. Failure to or improper signal. Improper passing. Disregarding stop sign. Criminal mischief first degree. 

Zachary Farmer, Criminal mischief first degree. Theft by unlawful taking over $500.

Anthony B. Davis, Assault first degree.

Brandon Embry, Unlawful transaction with a minor first degree, victim under age of sixteen.

Donald K. Bartley, Criminal possession of forged instrument second degree. Theft by deception including cold checks greater than $500, less than $10,000. Forgery, second degree.

James Adams, Theft by unlawful takings over $500.

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

Here are some of our favorite and most popular photos from 2018 including those from the news, community happenings, and sports. While not all our top stories from this year have featured photos, the pics below are all Edmonson Voice photographs taken by our staff members.

Another year has come and gone and we've gathered all the website traffic information for EdmonsonVoice.com for 2018. It's the second year in a row with more than 4 million visits, but we're more excited that our weekly readership skyrocketed by 50% last year. In 2017, we averaged 16K weekly readers, but that climbed to 24,000 readers each week in 2018. Thank you for your overwhelming support.

​Here are the top 10 viewed articles from our network over the past year:

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office arrested 5 people, issued 7 total citations, and worked 6 motor vehicle accidents over the course of two days, December 24th and 25th. Two of the six accidents resulted in various citations while another resulted in two separate citations and arrests for Operating a Motor Vehicle under the Influence of Alcohol and or Drugs.
 
At approximately 10:21 pm on December 24th, Edmonson County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the Upper Smiths Grove Road area for an attempt to locate on a suspicious person who had reportedly been knocking on random doors throughout the neighborhood, according to the Sheriff's Office. It wasn’t until 3:43 am, after Deputies responded to similar calls in the same area, that the suspicious person, Brandon Young (37) of Richardsville Road, was located in the vicinity of E. Cooke Road, Smiths Grove. Young was arrested and lodged in Hart County Jail for Public Intoxication of a Controlled Substance after Young reported to Deputies that he was high on Methamphetamine. 

​According to the Sheriff's Office, a Christmas Day accident involved only one impaired driver at first, but resulted in two separate arrests for DUI.

At approximately 12:58 am on December 25th, Sheriff’s Deputies responded to Morgantown Road for a vehicle in a ditch that was partially blocking the roadway. Once on scene, Deputies said they found James D. Wells (22) of Morgantown Road in the driver seat and the strong odor of alcohol was detected. Wells reportedly admitted to having recently consumed alcoholic beverages and after a field sobriety test was performed, Wells was arrested and charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs, 1st Offense.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
We've seen Santa Claus at a few different places recently and we asked him if he would take a few moments for an interview. When he said "yes," the visions of sugarplums began to dance in our heads and we sat down with the world's most famous sleigh pilot.

EV: We're only a few days away from Christmas and we've seen you in Edmonson County several times over the last few weeks. How is that possible during what would seem to be your busiest time of the year?
SC: Well, the credit goes to Mrs. Claus and the elves. There's no way I can handle everything by myself. She is currently overseeing everything at the North Pole and the elves are seeing to the reindeer and finishing up the toy making and preparation for Christmas Eve. I have other homes all over the world that I stay in during the summers and I even have one here in Edmonson County. 
EV: Do you and everyone at the North Pole work all year round?
SC: For the most part, yes; however, everyone takes a vacation immediately following Christmas. The elves usually go to the Bahamas and spend some time recharging the batteries while Mrs. Claus and I also head south. We might be gone from anywhere from a couple weeks to a month, it just depends.
EV: We've seen you several places, but you never have any elves with you. Do they stay at the North Pole?
SC: Ho, Ho, Ho! No...elves are everywhere. Not all of them are small with pointy ears, either. I have hundreds of thousands of undercover elves that work with me 24/7, all year long. They could be anyone: teachers, policeman, someone at the grocery, or even your own brother or sister. How do you think I keep such a close eye on everyone? We also incorporated the "Elf on a Shelf" a few years ago. You may only see them at Christmas, but they send reports to the North Pole everyday.
EV: Do you really put coal in stockings of those on the naughty list?
SC: Well, I did until a few years ago when the price of coal went sky-high! These days I use rocks instead, and they come right from the driveways or yards of those that get them. I know it doesn't help Kentucky's coal industry, but hey...
EV: We heard someone call you "Skip" the other day. Do you sometimes go by another name?
SC: Skip is a nickname I was given long ago. It stands for "Santa Klaus In Person."
EV: When are the naughty and nice lists finalized?
SC: They're not. It's never too late to be transferred from one to the other. But hey, there's only been one person on this Earth that was perfect, and that was Jesus, the reason for the season, so I know that everybody else makes mistakes, including me. As long as you're making an honest effort to be good, you'll be on the nice list.

​EV: No doubt you get this question a lot, but what do you say when someone asks you if you're the real Santa?
SC: Christmas is a wonderful time of celebration and love. There's so much more to Christmas than just me and what goes on at the North Pole. I can best answer that in a poem that I wrote long ago..
​I can answer your question that should explain,
I’m sure this will make it all quite plain.
Does God live in your heart?
I think that’s where we should start.
God is a spirit that lives within you,
The spirit of Santa is like that too.
Santa’s spirit, like God’s, wants you to be good,
Not just sometimes, but all the time you should.
Anyone can be Santa , even you can play the part,
All you need is love in your heart.
Be kind and generous to others,
Make all you meet your sisters and brothers.
Still, the question remains, “Am I Santa?“
You must search your heart for the answer,
No fair asking Prancer or Dancer……
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EV: Wow, that's amazing. You obviously have plenty to do and places to go. Is there anything else you'd like to tell our readers?
SC: Sure, I'm headed back to the North Pole where we'll be loading up and getting ready for the big night. Make sure everyone goes to bed early on Christmas Eve... MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL, AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT! HO, HO, HO!!

**a version of this article was first published in the Edmonson Voice on December 21, 2016.

MAMMOTH CAVE, Ky., December 22, 2018.– Due to the lapse of appropriations and the subsequent partial shutdown of the federal government, Mammoth Cave National Park will not operate cave tours, provide visitor services, or operate the Green River Ferry during the government shutdown.  Park roads, lookouts, and trails, will remain accessible to visitors, but emergency and rescue services will be limited.
 
Please visit www.nps.gov and select “Find a Park” for additional information about access to other parks and sites in this area. However, note that because of the federal government shutdown, NPS social media and websites are not being monitored or updated and may not reflect current conditions.

Darren Doyle, story:
It was the final fiscal court meeting of the year for Edmonson County as well as the terms of District 6 Magistrate Mark Woosley and District 2 Magistrate Joe Durbin today. Distict 1 Magistrate Buck Simmons was absent due to a family matter, but he is also a departing official.

In addition to the sheriff's budget discussion that took up the majority of the meeting, several other topics were on today's agenda.

Road Foreman Ray Page asked the court to furnish powered gates to the road department entrance as an alternative to the steep entrance that caused Page to be pinned between a truck and the current gates during a snowstorm last year. Magistrates seemed to be behind the idea and Page said estimates would be around $4K for the powered gates. Judge Cannon said the amount was in the budget and the court agreed to look into the matter. Page also said it looked like the estimate for repairing the county backhoe that was damaged in an accident a few weeks ago, looked to be around $19K, which would be filed under the county's insurance.

Sheriff Shane Doyle discussed a free DUI training in which deputies recently took part. Doyle said it was advantageous for the deputies at no cost to the county.

Emergency Management Director Terry Massey reported 23 recent emergency calls to which he recently responded and encouraged any of the officials to call him with any needs they may have.

Jailer Hank Vincent reported there were 23 county inmates currently housed at Hart County Jail.

In addition, the court also voted to:

• Approve SOKY Film Commission Dues for $1500
• Approve Susie Vincent for 3 year term to Extension Board, effective January 15th, 2019.
• Approve Anthony Hennion for 3 year term to Extension Board, effective January 15th, 2019.
• Approve to hire full time Road Dept. employee.
• Approve ATVG Winter Meeting on January 23rd and 24th in Chattanooga, TN.  Registration Fee is $100.00.
• Approve for Treasurer to close General Money Market at Bank of Edmonson County and to open a new General Money Market at Limestone Bank.
• Approve Fiscal Court Schedule Bond Renewal # 398 34 44.
• Approve Jailer Bond Renewal # 204 30 05.
• Approve Qualifying Sheriff Bond Renewal # 212 07 26.
• Approve Sheriff’s County Revenue Bond Renewal # 212 07 25.
• Approve Sheriff’s Department Schedule Bond # 398 34 43.
• Approve County Judge Executive Bond Renewal # 212 07 24.
• Approve County Clerk Bond Renewal # 212 07 23.
• Set Special Fiscal Court Meeting January 7th, 2019 for new fiscal court office appointments

The next regular Fiscal Court meeting is scheduled for January 14, 2019 at 6pm.

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Some familiar faces along with some new took the oath of office from District Judge J.B. Hines today in the Edmonson County Courtroom as they were sworn in for the 2019 term.

County Officials Judge Executive Wil Cannon, County Attorney Greg Vincent, Sheriff Shane Doyle, Jailer Hank Vincent, Coroner Brentley Esters, District 3 Magistrate Clark Wood, District 5 Magistrate Johnny Brooks, and District 4 Magistrate Edd Rich, who were all re-elected, were sworn in, as well as newly elected magistrates Corey Vanmeter (District 2), Mark Meeks (District 1), and James Vincent (District 6).

Also sworn in were newly elected constables: Anthony Cobb (District 1), Travis Madison (District 2), Ricky Page (District 4), as well as re-elected constables, Joe Carl Daugherty (District 3), Charles Peck (District 5), and Ben Minton (District 6).
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All law enforcement members of the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office were also sworn in as they took the law enforcement oath. They included: Sheriff Shane Doyle and deputies Matt Skaggs, Stoney Phillips, Wally Ritter, Jordan Jones, Jeff Brooks, Devin Lindsey, and Austin Meredith. 

Darren Doyle, story:
District three magistrate Clark Wood clashed with Sheriff Shane Doyle on Doyle's proposed budget for 2019, which is around a total of a 7% increase from last year's budget. 

"This is what we discussed in our finance committee meeting," said Judge Executive Wil Cannon. "We did all the math on it and this is what is has to be in order for the Sheriff to continue providing the services that he currently provides." Cannon asked for a motion and second to pass the Sheriff's budget which was in the amount of $626,000, which was up from $582,000 for last year.

Magistrate Wood told Doyle that the sheriff's new budget amount was excessive and he was against the increase. He made a motion to reject to budget which was seconded by departing magistrate Joe Durbin. He asked Doyle to simply lower the amount. Doyle said the reasons for the increase in the budget were explained during both the week before last and last week's finance committee meetings where the discussion was shared by all magistrates, except Magistrate Buck Simmons, who was unable to attend to latter meeting. While Magistrate Wood asked several questions at last week's meeting, Doyle said he answered them and felt like magistrates understood Doyle's reasoning behind the increased numbers at the meeting, the place to discuss the line items for the budget, not the regular fiscal court meeting.

Today, the Sheriff said the increase was caused by several factors that were beyond his control, such as: payroll errors made by the former county treasurer, a new tax server required in order for the office to properly send and collect property taxes, a 15-20% increase in fuel, an increased cost from retirement costs set by the state, and their call volume that increased by 25% last year. Doyle said out of the entire amount, only a $3,300 increase could be credited to simply overspending.

"I want to the level of services to be up here," said Doyle as he gestured his hand above his head as he spoke with magistrates. "But you're only wanting to fund me down here," as he moved his other hand near his chest. "I want to be the best sheriff's office in the state. The public expects us to try to do that. If you want me to cut this budget then I have to cut the services we provide. Tell me what you want me to cut, write it down and sign your name to it, that way I can tell the public that these are the things some magistrates don't want us to do."

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​Magistrate Wood repeatedly said that wasn't his job to find the cuts. He said it's up to Doyle to come up with a satisfactory number to present to fiscal court and that Doyle would have to change the amount to a suitable number, not magistrates. 

County Attorney Greg Vincent said Wood was incorrect and that in fact, it was exactly the magistrates' job to make changes if they didn't like what was presented.

"He submits the recommend budget to you, and you have to vote on what the budget will be," said Vincent. "You can't just say, 'no, we're not accepting your budget,' today, you have to pass a budget, regardless. You will have to pass a number today. It's not him, he's already given his recommendation."

Wood said, "It's his job to cut the budget. If we don't approve it, it's his job to cut it."

Vincent replied, "No, it's your job to do that. He (the sheriff) did present the budget, he did his job. It's your job today to pass the budget. You will have to come up with a number today. It's the same thing we've done with every other sheriff, it's the same we did with every other clerk, even with the (former) clerk protesting and throwing a fit and other sheriffs throwing a fit. If you want the budget cut, YOU have to tell him what to cut and cut it out and he'll have to live with it."

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​The entire discussion lasted more than an hour with Wood questioning the sheriff on most all his figures, even asking for office staff from the sheriff's office to make a special trip to the meeting in order to furnish specific drug fund money information, which is an account that is funded by seized property and cash from drug arrests. While the amount exceeded more than $60K last year, it can only be spent on specific items that are for the use in fighting drugs. Vehicles, equipment, and uniforms are acceptable types of purchases, and none of those line items were increased from the previous year with Doyle's proposed budget. While the total budget amount from last year increased by $44K, only $6100 will come from the county's general fund.

Magistrate Johnny Brooks made the motion to pass a budget amount of $610K, which was $16K less than Doyle's recommendation. After nearly 20 more minutes of going over each line item again, Doyle ended up reducing salaries, including his own, and said it would not be pleasant explaining the cuts to his deputies.

"These are real people. They count on this money," said Doyle. In addition, Doyle was also forced to cut social security, retirement, workman’s comp, uniforms, and law enforcement supplies for a total of $9500 in cuts to bring the total down to $616K, a $10K decrease from his proposed amount. 

"We’re setting ourselves up for failure with all these cuts," said Judge Cannon. "We're probably going to be right back in this same situation with the sheriff asking for more money at the end of the year because he'll need more than this to operate."

Magistrates said they'd cross that bridge when faced with the task next year and Magistrate Brooks made the motion to accept the budget amount of $616,600. The motion was seconded by Clark Wood. A roll call vote was made and all voted in favor except magistrate Joe Durbin, who voted no, and departing Magistrate Buck Simmons, who was absent due to a family matter.