Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Schools will be closed on Thursday, December 14, and Friday, December 15, due to student and staff illness, according to Superintendent of Schools Brian Alexander. These will be NTI Days 1 and 2 for the 23-24 school year. "We have been monitoring student and staff attendance rates for two weeks," Alexander stated. "Student numbers have been low, but we have been able to sustain an attendance rate that would keep us in school. Today is the first day that we have had staff numbers that make it less than feasible to continue without a break from school so that we can combat the spread of illness." Alexander said there has been a stomach bug, as well as Flu A & B, Strep and a small number of COVID cases that have led to this decision. "We will come back on Monday, December 18, and Tuesday, December 19. Many of our schools have programs at the school-wide and classroom level that our students look forward to." "This is a special time of year and we regret the need to close school but the health and safety of our students is our first concern."
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Sheriff and Clerk's Budgets Approved Darren Doyle, story: A new director for Edmonson County Parks and Rec was hired at last night's Edmonson County Fiscal Court meeting. Magistrates voted unanimously on the hiring of Cody Stewart, a county resident, to be the new director. Parks and Rec formerly had two employees, a parks director, which was A.B. Webb, and a parks program director, which was John Kiernan. A committee made up of former Program Director Kiernan, Dist. 2 Mag. T.J. Massey, Dist. 4 Mag. Mickey Johnson, and Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey, interviewed applicants and recommended Stewart to the court for hiring. The position will pay an annual salary of $55,000 and combines the two former positions. The director position focused mainly on the mowing and maintenance of all parks while the program position focused on youth sports and events facilitated by the Parks and Rec Department. Magistrates have discussed contracting all the mowing, which will allow the newly hired Stewart to combine responsibilities, Massey said in a previous meeting. County Clerk Kevin Alexander reminded the court about the upcoming limitations his office will face at the end of December through early January with state system updates. Alexander reported that beginning Friday, December 29, 2023, through roughly midweek of January 8-12, there will be no vehicle transfers in the entire state of Kentucky. This is due to the state providing a new and updated system for vehicle transfers; however, Alexander said that Edmonson County is scheduled to be included in the first group of system updates. He also added that the Clerk's Office will be closed on December 25th-26th, the 29th-30th, and January 1st and 2nd. He also informed the court that a petition to include a wet/dry option on the next election ballot in 2024 was requested by a local resident and is currently available for signature at the Clerk's Office. He informed the court that new polling places would be added to next year's elections, with more details coming later. They include one at the Community Center for all Brownsville residents (District 4) and another at Bee Spring Park for those in Magistrate Gary Bagshaw's District. The court also heard from Roadway Management Technologies CEO Candler McCollum, who gave a presentation on his company that offers sensors on county vehicles that obtain road condition data. He gave a demonstration how the sensors work, and through vibration recording, said the system gives real-time data of the conditions of the roads. None of the magistrates had any questions or comments after the presentation. The court also voted to approve the 2024 Edmonson County Sheriff's budget in the amount of $991,300, with $267,300 coming from Fiscal Court. That is up from last year's amount of $872,300 with a $232,800 Fiscal Court contribution, and a total of an 8.79% increase. The County Clerk's annual budget was also approved in the amount of $3,848,605, which was up from $3,720,000, a 9.6% increase. The court also voted to:
The next fiscal court meeting date was scheduled for Wednesday, December 27th at 9AM. Darren Doyle, story: Local law enforcement is seeking information on a robbery that occurred at the Dollar General Store in Chalybeate, located on HWY 101 on Friday, December 8th. According to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, officers were requested to respond to the Dollar Store at approximately 8:46PM to the report of a robbery. The sheriff's office stated that an unknown white male, who appeared to be unarmed walked into the store and handed the cashier a note, demanding an unknown amount of cash. The male subject then left the store in an unknown direction, the sheriff's office said. Officers said they are currently working with the corporate office to acquire better video footage of the incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact Chief Deputy Tim Jackson at 270-929-3678 or Deputy Colton Starcher, 270-597-2157. The sheriff's office said callers can remain anonymous. Kayaks & More, Edmonson County Public Library, and Anthony Madison Honored at 2023 Chamber Dinner12/8/2023 Madison Doyle, story and photos: Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual banquet and awards at the Hidden Homestead last night, December 7, 2023. The dinner was the first sellout in several years. Kayaks and More was awarded Business of the Year, Anthony Madison was awarded Citizen of the Year, and the Edmonson County Public Library was awarded Chamber Servant of the year. The night began with Chamber President Darren Doyle addressing the crowd, with a dinner catered by Pig Diner. Doyle also gave a recap of various accomplishments and accomplished goals since January of 2021, including almost tripling the annual revenue, which he said means they can now triple their budget beginning in January of 2024. He also noted that the Chamber has helped facilitate or co-sponsor multiple events, including the annual Mammoth Cave Area Day, a College and Career Fair at ECHS, and the Big Brownsville Bash. Doyle also mentioned a few things the Chamber has in the works, including a feature magazine of Chamber members which will be available throughout the region. Anthony Madison, owner of Madison's Flowers in Brownsville, was awarded Citizen of the Year. Madison started his floral business in his garage, working only with silk flowers, because he could not afford a large flower cooler. The business grew over time, and has now been in Brownsville for over 30 years. "Even with recent health issues faced by him and his wife, along with several setbacks, he continues to be that same, selfless person, continuing his giving, even when he was in need himself," said Chamber President Darren Doyle. Chamber Servant of the Year was awarded to EC Public Library. Doyle said even though the library has been around for a long time, its new leadership and eager team members are serving the county and community like has "never been seen". They are promoting activities for all ages every single week, and are always looking for ways to help our area, specifically our children, he said. Chamber Vice President Josh Casey introduced the Business of the Year recipient, Kayaks and More. Casey said that while their business is somewhat a competitor with his own business, C&C Firearms and Outdoors, he has never felt like a competitor or an enemy. "Many of you know, I'm not originally from here," Casey said. "But I've always felt welcomed, and these people [Kim and Tony Polson] have always treated me as a friend, and we are truly honored to present them with this award tonight." The Chamber said they look forward to see what success and accomplishments will come next year. Visit edmonsonchamber.com to become a member. Edmonson Voice Report:
An Edmonson County Grand Jury recently returned the following indictments: Michael E. Coburn: Assault third degree, Resisting arrest, Alcohol intoxication in a public place. Travis Earl Basham: Torture of a dog or cat with serious injury or death (three counts), Cruelty to animals second degree (thirty one counts). Ronald Wayne Bedwell: Possession of a handgun by a convicted felon (two counts), Trafficking in a controlled substance first degree first offense (>= 10 D.U., firearm enhanced), Trafficking in marijuana less than eight ounces (firearm enhanced), Tampering with physical evidence, Terroristic threatening third degree, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Menacing. Seth Ryan Wayne Bedwell: Trafficking in a controlled substance first degree first offense (firearm enhanced), Trafficking in marijuana less than eight ounces (firearm enhanced), Possession of drug paraphernalia. Jimmy Allen Rich: Unlawful transaction with a minor first degree victim under 16 years of age (four counts), Unlawful transaction with a minor victim under 18 years of age, Criminal attempt to commit unlawful transaction with a minor first degree victim under 16 years of age, Unlawful use of electronic means originating or received the commonwealth to induce a minor to engage in sexual or other prohibited activities by solicitation. Randall Scott Decker: Trafficking in a controlled substance first degree first offense (>= 2 grams meth), Trafficking in a controlled substance first degree first offense, Tampering with physical evidence, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Public Intoxication. 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:
The boil water advisory issued on December 5th, 2023 by the Edmonson County Water District has been lifted, which includes all customers on the south side of Brownsville. Communities impacted by this advisory are Chalybeate, Rhoda, Pig, Wingfield, Cedar Springs, and Rocky Hill. For additional info, or to sign up for call alerts, contact the Edmonson County Water District office at 270-597-2165. Story and photos by Joseph Barkoff: It almost seemed as if there were no surprises at the annual Edmonson County Industrial Authority Christmas Dinner and awards ceremony Tuesday, December 5th at Tayvin Gardens in the Chalybeate community. Almost. Perennial powerhouse Yahagi American Molding Inc., Yami, as it is called, won “Industry of the Year.” No surprise. An Edmonson County High School teacher thought he was there just as another visitor who was invited alongside a few other faculty in support of the vocational program at the high school. Surprise. Brandon Meredith of Meredith Welding Technologies was awarded “Business of the Year.” The bait strung out to get him to the dinner was IA President Kevin Alexander, who also serves as Edmonson County Clerk, speaking about the 10 million dollar grant awarded to the school to remodel the vocational facilities where Meredith teaches welding. Yami was unable to send a representative to accept their award for “I don’t know how many years in a row now,” Alexander said. “I wish they could have been here tonight,” he said about Yami. Alexander felt like his team had done a pretty good job keeping Meredith’s award “under wraps,” he said. In 2011, he was a one-man operation, Alexander said about Meredith, while today, he is a 15-man operation. Meredith was originally a student in the welding program at ECHS and the pathway to success for him was already laid out, he just had to “pick the ball up and run with it,” he said. He humbly referred to his original instructor Mr. “Woody” Woodcock, not wanting to take credit for following in Woody’s footsteps, he said. “It’s easy to follow a road that’s already plowed,” he said. He had no idea the award was coming and was flattered to be honored, but it was a double-edged sword because he said it was as well unnerving how he was one of only a couple people in the room to not know he had won. He credits his success to the program’s success and the ability to do high level instruction. “For the level that we are at, for the business we target, the customers and how we service them, we have to have a very selective hiring process,” he said. In attendance at the dinner was 9th District senator David Givens. He enjoys spending time in Edmonson County because it reminds him of his hometown area back in Green County, he said. Givens noted there are ways to grow a community with industry successfully, and while there are ways to go about in positive and negative ways, he feels Edmonson County is growing itself in positive and responsible ways, he said. Edmonson County executive recruiter Jon Sanders also spoke briefly. He gave positive news about the 17.6 acre industry park site where he feels the County is now able to compete equally with surrounding areas. Over the past year, they have competed a Phase 1 Environmental Study to present data to potential buyers the land, ground water and soil are free from hazards and contaminants, ready to build. A geophysical study to essentially map out the area underneath where building occurs. As well as a geo-technical study that consists of boring into the ground to test for things like soil compaction, he said. The point of the testing allows businesses to utilize the data for planning, engineering and construction. Having it done before a business shows interest in the area allows the Authority to compete with rival counties for business. A year ago, they did not have the information available, while every other property in the region did, he said.
“So now, that means that if an industry wants to build on that property, that 17.6 acres, it is ready to be built on, next week,” Sanders said. “If someone wanted to.” With 50 acres on a second site, but no road access to 31W, the goal over the next 12 months is to develop a plan on the concept of creating six to seven tracks for six or seven businesses and creating access to the highway, he said. “All we got to do is raise the right bait and hopefully we can land the fish,” he said. ***UPDATE: DECEMBER 7, 2024, 2:07PM***
THE BOIL WATER ADVISORY HAS BEEN LIFTED. Edmonson Voice Report: On December 5th, 2023 the Edmonson County Water District issued a boil water advisory for all customers on the south side of Brownsville but not including the City of Brownsville. Communities impacted by this advisory are Chalybeate, Rhoda, Pig, Wingfield, Cedar Springs, and Rocky Hill. The advisory will remain in effect until water samples have been taken and the threat of contamination has been eliminated to the satisfaction of the Environmental Protection Agency. You must boil your water to a full boil for at least three minutes. If there are any questions you may call The Edmonson County Water District office at 270-597-2165. Darren Doyle, story:
Two individuals were arrested and face a host of charges after what law enforcement said was a burglary attempt on Saturday, November 30th. According to an arrest citation, Deputies Eric Smith and Tim Jackson from the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office responded to a complaint call of a possible burglary at an unoccupied residence on Blue Bird Road in Smiths Grove on November 30th around 8:30PM. Deputies found that the back door of the residence had been forced open and then locked from the inside, according to the citation. Deputies stated that they heard movement and noises from inside and made entry, where a male subject was found hiding in an ottoman in the living room, the citation stated. The male subject, identified as Michael D. Johnson, (22) of Glasgow, told authorities there was another subject inside a bedroom, according to the citation, where officers found a female subject identified as Kristen Matthews, (23) of Edmonton hiding under a blanket. Law enforcement said there was also suspected meth and drug paraphernalia in plain view and that a further search resulted in the discovery of other paraphernalia and marijuana, according to the citation. Police documents also stated that burglary tools were discovered along with a broken lock, and that both subjects had active outstanding warrants. Michael Johnson was arrested and charged with:
Kristen Matthews was arrested and charged with:
They were both transported to the Hart County Jail. Johnson is being held on a $10,000 bond while Matthews is held on $10,000 and $5,000 bonds, according to the jail. Male Subject Who Fled on Foot Still Wanted Darren Doyle, story: An investigation on the whereabouts of a suspected meth trafficker led to her arrest this past weekend, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. According to Edmonson County Sheriff's Deputy Tim Jackson and an official arrest citation, Deputy Jackson arrived at a residence on Chalybeate School Road on Saturday, November 25th around 5PM where consent to search was given by the resident, who said drugs could be present. Deputy Jackson stated in an arrest citation that Ponda Bennett, (48), who was staying with the resident, was observed in a bedroom with an odor of marijuana and a meth pipe in plain view. Jackson stated to the Edmonson Voice that while interviewing Bennett, a white male jumped out of a glass window from a closet of the bedroom and fled on foot with what appeared to be cash along with narcotics. During that time, Dep. Jackson said he observed Bennett flushing an unknown amount of methamphetamine down the toilet, which he said he was able to recover a portion. A further search of the bedroom resulted in the discovery of a large amount of meth, scales, and drug paraphernalia, Jackson said. Kentucky State Police along with Warren County Sheriff's Office assisted in the search for the male, who was later identified by Deputy Jackson, with charges pending as a wanted fugitive, according to Jackson. Ponda Bennett was arrested and charged with:
She was transported to the Hart County Jail. Madison Doyle, story and photo:
Edmonson County Fiscal Court met tonight, November 27, 2023. The meeting was called to order by Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey, who began the meeting by leading the court in the Pledge of Allegiance. Tonight's agenda was very light with only four items of new business to discuss. Most of the discussions tonight stemmed from reports from county office department heads. The majority of those reports were very short and to the point, with the exception of County Clerk Kevin Alexander. Alexander reported that beginning Friday, December 29, 2023, through roughly midweek of January 8-12, there will be no vehicle transfers in the entire state of Kentucky. This is due to the state providing a new and updated system for vehicle transfers. Alexander said the current system that is used is 25 years old. "I know this is going to be hard on some people, it's going to be hard on us too. Just know this is out of our hands, this is a state thing, but it'll be worth it." Alexander said the clerks office will be closed December 29, 2023, and they will return to office on January 3rd but will not be able to do point of sale until the new system gets put in. Alexander also said that Edmonson County is one of the first counties in the entire state on the list to receive this new system, so they might see business from other counties until they get their new system. There were no other major county office reports. The court voted to:
The next fiscal court meeting is scheduled to be held December 11, 2023 at 4 p.m. Madison Doyle, story and photos: The annual Lions Club Christmas Parade was back tonight, November 25, 2023 in Brownsville. The winners are as follows: Best of Show: Shop on 70 Commercial: Webb's Eats N' Treats Antique Car: Andrew and Macy Whobrey Civic: Cody and Jon Vincent Emergency Vehicle: Wingfield Fire Department School: ECHS Cheer Best Horse: Angela Cherry and Paisley Glenn Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Judge/Executive's Office has announced that the countywide ban on all outdoor burning has been lifted. The current statewide restrictions for fall burning are still in place. In a statement, Judge Scott Lindsey said: "I have just spoken to our Emergency Management Director, Terry "Moose" Massey, and we have made the decision to lift the local burn ban that has been in place for Edmonson County since November 15, 2023. This is for the local Edmonson County burn ban, only. We are still under the guidelines of the State Burn Ban as outlined by KRS 149.400 listed below. Violators will be subject to the state burn ban fines and punishment." 149.400 Fire hazard seasons -- Fires prohibited -- Exceptions. (1) The periods commencing on February 15 and ending on April 30 and commencing on October 1 and ending on December 15 of each year are hereby declared to be and established as the fire hazard seasons. During the fire hazard seasons, even though the precautions required by KRS 149.375 shall have been taken, it shall be unlawful for any person to set fire to, or to procure another to set fire to, any flammable material capable of spreading fire, located in or within one hundred fifty feet (150') of any woodland or brushland, except between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., prevailing local time, or when the ground is covered with snow. 100 Complete Thanksgiving Meals Delivered Madison Doyle, story and photos: Stuff the Bus, one of southcentral Kentucky's largest and most well known charities, continues to expand its giving, and today they joined forces with some of Edmonson County's hardest working charities and local organizations to make even more of a difference. What started as a radio stunt nearly 20 years ago from morning radio show host Tony Rose has turned into a giving powerhouse that continues to make a difference all across the region. Just a few years ago, Stuff the Bus started what was known as the annual STB Turkey Drop, which was inspired by an episode of the 70s TV sitcom "WKRP in Cincinnati." The episode was about a promotion that the station held where 40 live turkeys were dropped out of a helicopter for a Thanksgiving giveaway, but not all the turkeys flew, causing smashed windshields and other carnage. The episode remains one of the most popular in the series' history. Luckily, no windshields were smashed (as far as we know) as the annual STB Turkey Drop was held today all across the Bowling Green area, where the charity teamed up with other orgs in the area to see that needy families are able to have plenty on Thanksgiving Day. Rose reached out to Darren Doyle, Founder of the Edmonson Voice and President of the Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce to see how STB could partner with some EC organizations to spread a little more giving. "The Chamber knew there was a need in Edmonson County and we asked Mark Wardlow, co-founder of Santa's Helping Hands and a fellow Chamber board member, what was the best way to handle it," Doyle said. "Mark then coordinated with the Edmonson County Family Resource and Youth Services Centers, the Senior Food Pantry, and other locals to coordinate some extra giving on Thanksgiving Day." Wardlow and Doyle, with trailer in tow, made their way down to Priceless IGA on Louisville Road to meet the STB crew to pick up 100 meals, which included a full turkey with sides, ready to be delivered, cooked, and enjoyed. Tony Rose discussed the opportunity to branch out into Edmonson County for the Thanksgiving event.
“The Stuff the Bus Foundation is humbled to have the chance to work with Santa’s Helping Hands, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Edmonson Voice to help make sure families in Brownsville and the county can celebrate together this morning and this holiday season," he said. "We are blessed to have some amazing friends in Edmonson County.” Wardlow said it was another way that SHH could continue making a difference in Edmonson County. "Coming off the single biggest year we've ever had with our annual benefit auction, this was a fantastic way to start the holiday season for several Edmonson County families that could use a 'helping hand,'" he said. "Once we learned about the opportunity, we jumped at the chance. We appreciate Tony, all the Stuff the Bus crew, and of course, our Edmonson County friends that helped make this happen." Santa's Helping Hands and the Edmonson Voice helped sponsor the local event while the regional event was sponsored by Houchens Food Group, The Mint Gaming Hall, WBKO, Farmers Bank & Trust, Logan Aluminum, Wendy's of Bowling Green, Red Elephant Studio, Tri County Auto & Oil, D93 WDNS, and WRUS 104.9 610. All 100 meals were delivered to Edmonson County families just in time for cooking and sharing with friends and family. The annual Santa's Helping Hands shopping day is coming up this Sunday, Nov. 26th at 3pm at Walmart on Morgantown Road. Any volunteers looking to help can meet there to assist purchasing items for distribution for SHH. Darren Doyle, story:
A Mammoth Cave man has been arrested and faces meth and other charges after a dispute call on Monday, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. Sheriff James Vincent said that deputies responded to Chestnut Drive in Mammoth Cave on Monday, November 20th around 11AM to a call of what was described as a family property dispute. According to an arrest citation, a subject at the residence identified as Andy Quentin Hornback, (38), was found to be in possession of a small bag of methamphetamine. The citation also stated that Hornback was found to be in possession of multiple meth pipes with fresh residue along with discharged needles that tested positive for methamphetamine. The citation also stated that upon attempt for law enforcement to detain the subject for questioning, Hornback refused commands from officers and jumped off the porch, pulling a deputy with him. The citation also stated that during an altercation to subdue the subject, a deputy obtained multiple injuries to his arm, finger, and shin. Hornback was arrested and charged with:
He was transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail. Sponsorships Available For 2024 Induction Ceremony Darren Doyle, story: The Edmonson County Hall of Distinguished Alumni has announced four new inductees that will be honored at a ceremony on March 15, 2024. The new members include Mr. Jimmie Gipson (d.), Coach Keith Madison, Judge N.E. Reed (d.), and Mr. Scottie Woodcock. The HODA Committee provided the following information for the inductees: Jimmie Gipson is a 1959 graduate of Brownsville High School. Whether on the basketball court or leading a large company, he was a key player on every team for which he played. Described by friends as a servant leader who embodied the characteristics of loyalty and altruism, Jimmie was proud of his modest upbringing in the Chalybeate community. He was employed by Houchens Industries for 55 years, serving as CEO for the last 26 years. It was under Jimmie’s leadership that Houchens expanded from a single grocery store to become the largest and most diversified ESOP in the country. This strategy fended off the expansion of big box stores into Houchens’ territory while transforming the company into an ESOP with over 19,000 participants. Thus, securing it as a primary driver of the southcentral Kentucky economy. Jimmie has received many honors over the years including Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst and Young, honoree in the WKU Hall of Distinguished Alumni and the Junior Achievement Hall of Fame, and recipient of the Lou Fox Award for Charity and Community Service from Associated Wholesale Grocers. Keith Madison, a 1969 graduate of Edmonson County High School, grew up in the Lindseyville community in a household where faith, family, and sports were mainstays. At age 17, he signed his first professional baseball contract charting the trajectory of his life toward a career in athletics. During his career, Keith played with several professional teams including the Montreal Expos and the Cincinnati Reds. His collegiate coaching career began at Mississippi State University in 1977. In 1979, Madison, then age 26, became the youngest head coach in NCAA Division I baseball when he was hired to lead the University of Kentucky baseball team. He remains the winningest coach in U.K. baseball history, which led to the retirement of his jersey and recognition as an honoree in several halls of fame for his success on the field. Judge Noah Everett “N.E.” Reed, Jr., a 1965 graduate of Edmonson County High School, grew up in the Mohawk community, but served all of Edmonson County for 21 years as Judge/Executive. First elected in 1993, the role was a natural fit for this servant leader who tirelessly sought opportunities to improve the quality of life for his constituents. He developed the first Parks and Recreation Department and Industrial Authority in Edmonson County and he worked tirelessly throughout the region to create economic development opportunities and enhance infrastructure for residents. As a long serving Judge Executive, Judge Reed was well known by his peers across the Commonwealth and his sage council was often sought by other elected officials. Judge Reed continued to serve Edmonson County after retiring from office as a District 4 Director of WRECC and a Board Member of Edmonson County Water District as well as a member of the Edmonson County Lions Club. Scottie Woodcock, a 1951 graduate of Brownsville High School, grew up in Brownsville and when he married his wife, Ethel, they put down permanent roots to raise their family and make a living there. He had a strong business acumen at an early age and found success in several ventures, including the Gulf service station, Woodcock General Store, (serving as manager), and Western Auto. Scottie also played a critical role in bringing the first factory—Kelwood—to Brownsville, which created jobs for many residents leading to far-reaching economic impact in the county. In 1989 Scottie made a career change and became a Loan Officer and Board Member at the Bank of Edmonson County. This allowed him to help many Edmonson Countians achieve their dreams by approving loans for homes, farms, and businesses. He served in a myriad of volunteer and civic roles, including Brownsville City Council, Brownsville Water District, Lions Club, and the Washington Meredith Masonic Lodge. His professional success and service to his community led to his recognition as Mr. Brownsville in 1964. The inaugural class of the Edmonson County Hall of Distinguished Alumni, 2023: L-R: Johnny Pete Vincent, the late David Webb (accepted by wife Ann Webb), MSgt. Larry Hawks, Johnny Webb, Jeanne Patton, Jerry Patton, Dr. Kevin Clemmons. "The four inductees selected for the 2024 Class were chosen from a pool of 26 nominations submitted by members of the community," HODA said in a written statement. "The committee took great care to evaluate each nomination to ensure that those selected reflected the criteria set forth, which include: outstanding personal, civic, or professional achievements, honor and recognition to the alma mater through his/her profession or service, strong personal character, moral conviction, and outstanding service/contributions, attended or graduated no less than fifteen years from date of consideration, and achievements in career, public service, and volunteer activities worthy of recognition which have brought honor to the Edmonson County School District.
The 2024 ECHS Honorary Alumnus will also be announced at the event, which will not be revealed until the evening of the Induction Ceremony, the committee stated. The committee also made special note of those inducted that are being done posthumously, Mr. Gipson, Judge Reed, as well as last year's Mr. David Webb. "The committee has endeavored to be thoughtful in selecting honorees who have reached the pinnacle of their careers or community involvement and, in some cases, to choose those who may be nearing the twilight of their impactful lives to ensure we are able to personally celebrate with them while they are still with us," they stated. "The committee recognizes that in the first few years of the program, it will likely be necessary to “reach back” to honor some inductees who are no longer with us. It is our privilege to do so and we make those selections with reverence and gratitude for their achievement in their chosen profession and service to our community. We give special consideration to make sure that there is a good balance of living inductees with whom we may personally celebrate and those who have gone on and will require a loved one to receive the award on their behalf. Each group is equally important and it is our wish to honor them well while bringing a top tier event to our community. While the committee discussed many names of worthy individuals who deserve consideration, we are limited to only evaluate those with complete nomination forms. Consequently, if the community feels strongly that someone should be included, then the onus is on them to submit a complete nomination for that candidate. Once a nomination is submitted, it will remain in the pool for consideration for three years." There are also a number of sponsorship opportunities available for the ceremony, which is to be held at Tayvin Gardens.
Tickets to the public will go on sale soon and will be advanced-sale, only. No tickets will be sold at the event. For more info, see any committee member or email edmonsoncountyhoda@gmail.com. The sponsorship levels will be filled on a first come, first served basis. Committee members of HODA are: Regina Byrd, Melinda Campbell, Darrell Cassady, Treasurer, Cooper Clark, Video Production, Morgan Esters, Amanda Lich, Chair, Hon. Ronald Scott Lindsey, Carol Stice, Laura-Grace Vincent, Johnny Webb , Jonathan Williams. Darren Doyle, story: After a record-breaking year at the 2023 Edmonson County Fair, the Edmonson County Lions Club is sharing the success with the same community that helped make this year's event the biggest ever. Newly-elected Fair Board Chairman Donnie Turley said the Lions Club had to commit to investing much more capital this year, in order to secure a much bigger and better carnival--something that has been lacking in recent years. The cancellation of the 2020 fair due to the Covid pandemic was a huge setback to the Lions Club, which was already struggling to attract fairgoers. Turley and a new group of Lions Club members began asking for support from businesses in the community to help make the much-needed investment happen, and it happened. Their efforts raised nearly $20K to help fund the new carnival and fair, which rejuvenated the community's interest in the annual event. As a token of thanks, the Lions Club wanted to pay it forward. So far, the Lions Club have provided the coats for this year's local Coats for Kids and made $1000 donations to each of the following local charities: VFW Chapter 6937, DAV Chapter 32, Santa's Helping Hands, Feeding America (Edmonson Backpack Program), Edmonson County FRYSC Affordable Christmas, and Turley said they have plans on doing even more in the future. "We just wanted to do something for our community that gave back," said Turley. "There are so many good organizations in Edmonson County doing great things for our community and we want to help anywhere we can."
The Lions Club is making preparations for Santa to stop in Brownsville this Saturday, November 25th at 6PM for the annual Christmas Parade. Participants will lineup beginning at 4PM at Edmonson County High School. The Lions Club is the title sponsor for this year's Edmonson Voice Christmas Parade Livestream that is scheduled to begin at 6PM on both the Edmonson Voice Facebook and YouTube pages. Darren Doyle, story: Edmonson County Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey has issued an executive order for a burn ban for all of Edmonson County, due to drought conditions. The ban applies to all open outdoor burning with the exception of campfires in an established campground or structured fire pit. Local firefighters have battled multiple recent field and grass fires, including two today, according to the Judge's Office.
The National Weather Service has placed the region in an "enhanced fire danger," as a result of the combination of a dry atmosphere and low fuel moisture. The ban will remain in effect until further notice. Darren Doyle, story and photos: An early morning fire claimed a mobile home in Wingfield on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 just before daylight. Fire departments were paged around 5:30AM this morning to the report of a structure fire in the 2900 block of Wingfield Church Road. Firefighters arrived to a mobile home that was fully engulfed. The resident of the home, Russell Logsdon, was staying with a friend at the time of the fire. He said he had left a small space heater on for his dog, which was inside. He said he thought the dog must have knocked over or moved the heater, which could have caused the blaze. The dog was lost in the fire and the home was a total loss. The mobile home was on the property of Freddie Logsdon. Responding to the fire were the Wingfield, Chalybeate, and Brownsville Fire Departments. No other injuries were reported. Darren Doyle, story and photo: Another quick meeting of the Edmonson County Fiscal Court was held today, Monday, November 13, 2023 at the Edmonson County Courthouse. An update of current Edmonson County Water District projects was among some of the brief discussions held at today's meeting. Edmonson Water General Manager Tony Sanders addressed the court today to bring magistrates up to speed on the current projects with the district, including the ARPA allocated project and the continuing issues with Green River water levels that are major concerns to the district. In April of 2022, magistrates with the former fiscal court administration voted to allocate $650,000 of the county's $2.3M in ARPA funding for a water district project that focuses on a $1.1M job that would improve multiple pump stations, new service to E Hack Road, and improvements on Luttrell Cemetery Road, Segal Road, Carl Ashley Road, and HWY 70. "We are now in the process of the design," Sanders said. "We expect to have plans ready in March or the first of April to submit to the division of water. Once we get approval back, we're thinking we can probably do our advertising and hopefully go to bids sometime in the second quarter or the beginning of the third quarter." Sanders said he hoped to have a finished contract by the end of 2024. He said that former Judge /Executive Wil Cannon approached him a couple years ago when the ARPA funding first came to the county and asked Sanders how the water district could use some of the funding. Early on, restrictions on how funds could be spent were focused for infrastructure, only; however, the restrictions for the funding became much looser as time went on. With additional grants available to the water district from The Cleaner Water Act, projects are moving forward, however, inflation has driven up the prices of labor and material since the first estimates in 2021. Sanders said he was concerned about completing the projects now at the 2021 prices, but only time would tell. Sanders also updated the court on the current intake situation that has been a major concern of the water district since the federal government passed legislation to remove Lock number 6 and Lock Number 5, which has currently been halted. The changing water levels from the Lock 6 removal have caused major problems for the district's intake system which is expected to fail in it's current state, should the Lock 5 removal continue. It has been temporarily halted due to the emergency it has caused. "It's a touchy subject," Sanders said. "We had a meeting on October 27th. The new Colonel from the Louisville Division (Corps of Engineers) was here and we talked to her. Of course, we're still looking at a permanent solution--one of the new ideas is to build a new intake structure up close to where the old Lock is. They're looking at a short term solution to where they can take the Locks out. The problem is, with the short term solution, nobody really knows what to do." Congress allocated funding for the removal of the dam, so if it's not done, Congress will have to decide on something else, which leaves local decision makers helpless. However, both Sanders and Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey said Senator Rand Paul's Office, Senator Mitch McConnell's Office, and the office or Congressman Brett Guthrie have been very resourceful in helping the county with the issues, despite the continuing push to remove the lock/dam. The Edmonson Voice spoke with representatives from Rep. Brett Guthrie's Office just over a month ago about the pending issue. They informed us that their door was open to helping the water district in anyway they could; however, Sanders said today that neither a short term nor a long term solution is in place yet, other than the hold of the lock removal. In other discussion, Judge Lindsey reminded the court of the current statewide fall burning restrictions that occur during this time each year. Burning anything 150ft or closer to woodland or brushland is prohibited between the hours of 6AM to 6PM. These restrictions are in effect from October 1st to December 15th each year.
County Clerk Kevin Alexander reported that last week's general election went smoothly throughout the county, in all precincts. He said he was meeting with officials to discuss the upcoming changes to the precinct boundary lines that will take place next year. Park Director Position: Judge Lindsey said the candidates that have interviewed for the open Edmonson County Parks and Rec Director have been narrowed down to six individuals. The hiring committee will now discuss and make a recommendation for a fiscal court vote. Sunfish-Round Hill Road Update: Judge Lindsey reported that FEMA has finally allocated $860K for the repair of Sunfish-Round Hill Road, a dangerous unfinished project since the previous fiscal court administration. One man died as he drove off the unfinished portion of the road into the creek. The caveat is that the county will have to determine a way to front the costs of the repair and then be reimbursed for the project; however, most would argue that it's a must for the county. The court also voted to:
The next Edmonson County Fiscal Court meeting is scheduled for November 27, 2023 at 9AM. Madison Doyle, story and photos: Local Veterans were honored today at Edmonson County High School during the annual Veterans Day Program. The program began with opening remarks from Principal Jonathan Williams, and FFA President Johnathan Vincent leading the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance. The ECHS Band then performed the National Anthem, and later also performed "God Bless America" and "American Heroes." The ECHS Choir also gave a performance of "America the Beautiful." Vice Principal Nikki Culbreth introduced the Voice of Democracy Essay winners to read their essays to the audience. Cariann Williams was the first place winner, Addison Browning won second place winner, and Peyton Manor won third place. Each winner received a cash price; $200 for third, $300 for second, and $500 for first. Mr. John Vincent, VFW State Commander, then presented VFW Post 6937 with a special award. Edwin Vincent was the special guest speaker today. Vincent is a former US Air Force Chief Master Sergeant, retired Post 6937. Mrs. Nikki Culbreth gave closing remarks, and an ECHS Band Performer played "Taps". Darren Doyle, story:
District 19 State Representative Michael Meredith (R) has filed for re-election, according to an announcement today. Meredith has held the office since 2011. The primary election for District 19 is set for May of 2024. An Edmonson County native, Meredith lives with his wife and children in Warren County. He will face at least one challenger in May, Warren County resident Kelcey Rock. Rock ran for District 6 Magistrate in Warren County in the 2022 primary where he was defeated by incumbent Ron Cummings. Rock announced this week that he was seeking the office of District 19 Representative as a conservative republican. He lives with his wife and children on a farm in Warren County. District 19 includes all of Edmonson and a portion of Warren County. Darren Doyle, story:
A Bowling Green man faces multiple charges after he was found hiding in a vacant building near a local daycare center, according to the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office. According to an arrest citation, Sheriff James Vincent responded to a complaint call at Sarah's Playschool around 8:30AM on November 8, 2023, located on KY HWY 259 North, of an individual that walked across their property and disappeared into a vacant building. Sheriff Vincent stated that he entered the vacant building and made contact with a man who was identified as Richard Spears, (59) of Bowling Green, who was not an owner of the property. The citation stated that Sheriff Vincent asked Spears to walk outside but Spears attempted to run away. Spears was detained by the sheriff and a search of his person resulted in the discovery of a bag of suspected methamphetamine, cash, and a pipe that was suspected for the use of smoking meth, according to the citation. Spears was arrested and charged with:
He was also found to have two outstanding arrest warrants for probation violations from Warren County. He was transported and lodged in the Hart County Jail. Darren Doyle, story and photo: Andy Beshear has claimed victory in the Kentucky governor's race according to the Associated Press earlier tonight. While Republican challenger Daniel Cameron carried Edmonson County by a large margin, Beshear was reelected to his position, 53% to Cameron's 47%. Also winning statewide races were Republicans Russell Coleman (Attorney General), Michael Adams (Secretary of State), Allison Ball (Auditor of Public Accounts), Mark Metcalf (State Treasurer), and Jonathan Shell (Commissioner of Agriculture). Edmonson County saw a 37.39% voter turnout with 3,656 ballots cast out of 9,777 registered voters. CUMULATIVE COUNTY TOTALS: PRECINCT TOTALS: |
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