by Rep. Michael Lee Meredith:
Frankfort missed out on the snow that blanketed much of the state last week. While it disappointed some, it allowed legislative work to continue uninterrupted.
 
Executive Branch Budget: Late Thursday afternoon the House voted 85-8 to approve what I think is a strong, responsible budget for the next two fiscal years. This plan, HB 1 HCS has one of the lowest debt ratios of any budget I’ve seen passed during my time in Frankfort and it adds significant money to the budget reserve trust fund to protect us from future economic downturns. The budget also leaves over $1 billion unappropriated, giving us the opportunity to explore ideas like meaningful tax modernization that would lower the burden on our taxpayers and entice people and businesses to move to Kentucky and other game changing investments in our Commonwealth’s future.  
 
The bill provides record funding for public education including increases to SEEK funding, transportation funding, FRYSC funding and state dollars to fund full-day kindergarten.  This budget also prioritizes public safety by funding significant raises for state troopers and dispatchers.  It increases the training stipend for local police officers and firefighters and raises the amount of state aid funding for volunteer fire departments.  It also helps relieve the burden our jails are placing on counties all across Kentucky by providing additional funding.  However I’m most proud of 4 significant projects that are being funded in Edmonson County and Warren County.  The budget provides $10 Million to Edmonson County High School to renovate and expand our vocational department, $8.3 Million to the Bowling Green Independent School District to renovate their vocational department, $75 million to Western Kentucky University to build a new Gordon Ford College of Business and funding to operate the Bowling Green Veterans Nursing Home so that it can welcome veterans from our region after construction is complete.   The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.
 
Transportation Budget: This budget represents the administrative costs associated with operating the state’s Transportation Cabinet and includes some funds for maintenance in our state. We will consider the plan for new infrastructure projects when we vote on the 6-year road plan later this session. The sponsor of HB 241 refers to this measure as “the beginning of the end of underfunding our state’s transportation needs” and it represents a commitment to improving the safety and efficiency of our road systems. The bill provides the Transportation Cabinet an operating budget of $200 million in General Fund, $200 million in restricted funds, and $1.6 billion in road funds each fiscal year. It includes $50 million in each year for a special grant to help local governments with road maintenance. I am particularly pleased to see it replaces over $180 million in allocations formerly charged to the road fund with general fund dollars and moves that amount to the Maintenance Account. For too long the state has used road fund monies for services not associated with roads. It may all be state money, but this change ensures transportation dollars are spent on transportation.
 
Many of the 16 legislative committees met this week and sent legislation to the House floor for further consideration. Committees are critical to the legislative process because they provide an opportunity for members to ask detailed questions and give legislation a thorough review. Legislation that cleared committees this week includes:
 
Incentives for Rural Job Creation: The House Agriculture Committee approved a proposed dubbed the “Rural Jobs Act” aimed at creating jobs in communities with a population under 50,000. House Bill 308 would grant an investor who has been qualified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture or the U.S. Small Business Administration the chance to compete for a pool of tax credits in hopes of enticing further investment in rural communities around the state. The tax credit would expire in 2029 – which means the legislature would have to determine if it is an effective tool before renewing it.
 
Protecting Kentuckians Personal Banking Information: Members of the Banking and Insurance Committee approved HCR 12, sponsored by my colleague Bart Rowland and I.  The legislation is aimed at bringing awareness to a Biden administration proposal that would require banks and other financial institutions to report to the IRS information about incoming and outgoing transactions from every customer’s account violating the financial privacy of the customers.  The measure also sends a formal request to Congress to reject the proposal on behalf of Kentucky consumers.
 
Bringing Efficiency to School Construction: Anyone who has ever been involved in a construction project of any kind knows that delays can be one of the biggest cost-drivers. The Local Government Committee voted for a measure that seeks to save some time and make the school construction process more efficient by allowing local plan review, inspection and enforcement on educational facilities under certain circumstances.
 
As always, I can be reached here at home anytime, or through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181. Feel free to contact me via email at Michael.Meredith@lrc.ky.gov. If you would like more information, please visit the LRC website www.legislature.ky.gov.

by Senator Steve Meredith:
After the first week of the 2022 Regular Session extended into last weekend, allowing for passage of time-sensitive legislation, week two was an abbreviated one—only four days—ahead of the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday. This allows for a four-day weekend which greatly benefits members of the western Kentucky delegation who are eager to be home as efforts to rebuild continue. 
 
On that note, in week two the General Assembly passed vital legislation pertaining to disaster relief for western Kentucky and ensuring in-person education is maintained for as many students as possible amid COVID-19 mitigation efforts in our schools. 
 
Members of the western Kentucky delegation championed Senate Bill (SB) 5 and the remainder of the Senate signed on as co-sponsors, in a clear show of unity for western Kentucky. SB 25–returned to the Senate as the companion House Bill (HB) 5–extended and clarified COVID-19 provisions signed into law during the 2021 Special Session, which were set to expire on January 1. 
 
HB5 provides western Kentucky communities devastated by the recent tornadoes with $200 million in general aid. The Western Kentucky State Aid Funding for Emergencies (SAFE) fund will immediately allocate $45 million, with $15 million of the funds going specifically to temporary housing for displaced families. The remaining $30 million will assist with education needs, bringing a sense of normalcy and much needed stability to children's lives. 
 
Additionally, the General Assembly approved House Joint Resolution (HJR) 29, which extended the state of emergency declaration for western Kentucky. Lawmakers contend the governor did not need an extension to continue that state of emergency, but out of an abundance of caution, passed HJR 29 as yet another showing of the legislature’s commitment to western Kentucky. 
 
SB 25 extends and clarifies COVID-19 provisions from the 2021 Special Session as it relates to schools. It also extends some of the more agreeable orders to allow for further mitigation of COVID-19. 
 
The bill continues to prioritize in-person learning by providing each school with remote instruction days, as opposed to a district-wide allotment. These non-traditional instruction (NTI) days may be used by the school in a variety of ways to ensure the fewest students are impacted. In order to address staffing shortages, the bill also loosens regulations around state retirement benefits enabling schools to rehire previously retired staff. 
 
SB 25 maintains legislative remedies first enacted in the 2021 Special Session’s SB 1, which initiates a more balanced approach to mitigating COVID-19 in schools. It is a result of the dedicated collaboration of lawmakers, as opposed to unilateral actions by the Governor. 
 
This 2022 legislative session, still in its infancy, promises many bills to review and consider, most notably the biennial budget for our commonwealth.
 
As always, I will continue to communicate during the coming weeks about the progress being made to complete a successful session.  In the meantime, if there is specific legislation of interest to you, please feel free to contact my office with your thoughts, opinions, suggestions, and recommendations.

Note:  Senator Stephen Meredith (R-Leitchfield) represents the 5th Senate District, which includes Breckinridge, Edmonson, Grayson, Hart, LaRue, and Meade Counties. He serves as chair of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Human Resources and vice-chair of the Senate Standing Committees on Health and Welfare and Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection. Senator Meredith also serves as co-chair of the Government Contract Review Committee and Medicaid Oversight and Advisory Committee. Finally, he is a member of the Senate Standing Committees on Education and Appropriations and Revenue. For a high-resolution .jpeg of Senator Meredith, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate105.jpg

 by Representative Michael Lee Meredith:
Since adjourning the 2021 Regular Session, interim committees met, heard testimony, gathered information, and focused on how to use the knowledge and data gained to craft thoughtful, intentional policies to help address the challenges our state faces.
 
Because we did our homework, we are ready for this legislative session. When we gaveled in on January 4, we hit the ground running because we were well-prepared for the task. We acted on bills that redraw the state’s legislative, congressional, and supreme court districts. Redistricting is required by the United States and Kentucky constitutions to better represent trends in population after each census. The final product must meet constitutional and legal considerations, while ensuring that each person has equal representation.
 
Not one House district remains unchanged, but there were only minor adjustments to our district. The new 19th district will continue to contain all of Edmonson County and portions of northern and eastern Warren County.
 
Redistricting consumed a great deal of our time during the first week, but it is far from the only issue that received our attention. On Friday, we made the historic move of filing a House budget proposal before the Governor’s budget address. The Kentucky Constitution is clear that the budget must begin in the House of Representatives. However, lawmakers have traditionally waited weeks and used the Governor’s budget as a starting place. By filing our own proposal, we have an opportunity to start the process sooner and consider the Governor’s recommendations and work with our colleagues in the Senate. I am pleased that it shows a commitment to meeting our state’s needs without spending every dollar available to us, giving us the opportunity to look at moving forward on reforming our tax code to attract businesses and lower the tax burden on our citizens. Highlights include record funding for education, a continued commitment to the state’s budget reserve trust fund, and resources to provide pay increases for the Kentucky State Police, state employees, social workers, and educators. To be honest, I am impressed with the investments it makes as well as the restraint it showed with money that belongs to you as a taxpayer.
 
K-12 Education Funding

• Increases the Base SEEK guarantee to a record high dollar amount of $4,100 in the first fiscal year and $4,200 in the second fiscal year. Every dollar SEEK is increased translates into an additional investment of $800,000 in public school districts.
• Doubles state funding for full-day kindergarten in both fiscal years to cover the entire cost
• Increases funding to eligible Family Resource and Youth Services Centers (FRYSCS) from approximately $184 to $220, totaling $12 million additional in each year
• Fully funds the state portion of health insurance for retired teachers under the age of 65

Post-secondary Education

• Provides $50 million additional in each year to the performance-based funding model available to the University of Kentucky, University of Louisville, Western Kentucky University, Murray State University, Northern Kentucky University, Morehead State University, and Kentucky Community and Technical Colleges.
• Funds a new health care workforce initiative at $20 million in each year of the budget
• Provides a total of $350 million in each year of the budget to create asset preservation funds at each public post-secondary institution and KCTCS to maintain buildings and facilities. Funds will be available to these institutions based on the square footage of facilities model established in the performance-based model.
  
• Provides an additional $42 million in each year for anticipated growth in each year for the College Access Program (CAP), Kentucky Tuition Grant Program, and Work Ready Scholarship Program

Health and Family Services

• Provides necessary funding to implement the Public Health Transformation Act (HB 129/2020) to ensure public health departments are financially able to continue serving communities
• Raises the salary and institutes a retention payment for social workers totaling approximately $25.6 million additional funding in the first year and a $61.7 million increase in the second year
• Funds 100 additional social worker positions in each year of the budget for a total of 200 and provides a method of tracking the implementation of increased staffing
• Raises the reimbursement rate of 1915c (Michelle P, Home and Community Based Services) waiver services by 10% in each year of the budget

Justice

• Provides a $15,000 pay increase to Kentucky State Police (KSP) Troopers and Motor Vehicle Inspectors
• Provides an $8,000 pay increase to telecommunicators
• Allocates $28.5 million for a training center at the Department of Criminal Justice Training at Eastern Kentucky University
• Increases the county jail per diem by $4 to $35.34

Transportation/Infrastructure

• Provides $200 million for the required state match for the federal infrastructure package
• Includes $50 million in each year for a special grant to help local governments with road maintenance
• Replaces over $180 million in allocations formerly charged to the road fund with general fund dollars and moves that amount to the Maintenance Account

General Government

• Provides a 6% raise for public employees in the FY 22-23 and requires the Secretary of Personnel to develop a plan to revise the classification and compensation for funding in the second year
• Allocates $350 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding towards clean water and wastewater projects to be allocated to each county by population
• Returns the unemployment insurance fund to pre-pandemic levels by allocating $312 million in ARPA funds
• Funds the operation of the Bowling Green Veterans Nursing Home

Pensions

• Fully funds the actuarial required contribution for the Kentucky Retirement System at $1.2 billion per year
  
• Fully funds the actuarial required contribution for the Kentucky Teachers Retirement System at an estimated $1.067 billion in the first year and $1.084 billion in the second year. ($629 million in the first year and $646 million more in the second year)
  
• Provides $215 million to the Kentucky State Police Retirement Fund to reduce the employer contribution rate from 141% to 100%.
  

We also filed legislation during our first week, HB 5, aimed at addressing some of the needs generated by the deadly storms that destroyed so many homes and businesses in Kentucky. We acted swiftly on this and another measure during our second week to help those impacted by the December tornadoes in Kentucky. Not a single vote was cast against HB 5, which creates a fund and allocates $200 million towards education services, temporary housing, the rebuilding of public buildings, and the reimbursement of costs incurred by local governments and utilities for their response. While some of this funding may be reimbursed to the state through FEMA or insurance, these communities need access to resources immediately. This is the first step in what will no doubt be a long march towards rebuilding these communities. We also voted unanimously to approve HJR 29, which extends only the executive orders necessary to recovery and rebuilding efforts in the region.

In addition to our legislative work, I was also extremely pleased to see the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) halt the Biden administration’s attempt to mandate privately owned businesses require employees vaccinate. I appreciate the Court’s consideration of this issue. We should continue talking about how to best provide the tools that individuals, businesses, churches, and other organizations need to address Covid just like all challenges they face. 

As always, I can be reached here at home anytime, or through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181. Feel free to contact me via email at Michael.Meredith@lrc.ky.gov. If you would like more information, please visit the LRC website www.legislature.ky.gov.

Click the ad to call:

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
There are just a few 2022 Edmonson County Feeding America Backpack Food Program Benefit Calendars left, and the creators and organizers of the annual project are hoping to sell them by the weekend.

The brother and sister duo, Paul Blanton and Michelle McCoy along with other family members and volunteers are usually set up somewhere on the weekends peddling the calendars that have grown hugely popular around the area. The project was started back in 2019 by Blanton, who turned his hobbies of enjoying the outdoors and photography into a fundraiser for the backpack program, that feeds hundreds of Edmonson County kids on the weekends.

100% of the proceeds go toward the program, thanks to the additional sponsors of the program that help cover the costs.

McCoy said there are only about 100 of the calendars left but they will likely go fast. At just $10 each, the calendars feature outdoor photography from Edmonson County and the surrounding areas, all taken by Blanton.

"We can deliver, meet you in Edmonson County, Glasgow, Bowling Green and possibly other locations," McCoy said "We hope we can sell the remaining calendars by the week's end." 

To purchase your calendar, pease call Paul Blanton at 270-597-7799 or Michelle McCoy 270-784-2371.  You can also send a message through the EC Calendar Fundraiser Facebook page.

The family and close friends of Porter & Christine Brooks celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on January 2, 2022 with a small private gathering in their Bee Spring home.

The couple was married on December 28, 1951. They have five children and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Edmonson Voice Report:
The Edmonson County Water District Office has announced that they are closed Monday, January 3, 2022. They sent the following statement to the Edmonson Voice:

"The Edmonson County Water District office is is temporarily closed, due to short staffing due to illness. You can still make payments by either calling the office, online or night deposit box. In case of an emergency call the office at 270-597-2165. We will re-open the office as soon as possible. We are sorry for any inconvenience."

click the ad to call:

submitted by Edmonson County Tourism:
The Edmonson County Tourism Commission wrote these lyrics to showcase the adventures and activities that await locals and visitors in Edmonson County, KY. The highly talented local residents of the Caveland Quartet graciously tackled the request to bring these lyrics to life, which only further celebrates what our county offers.

From our crisp waterways beckoning for a float, to our beautiful horses, over to our natural terrain perfect for hiking, biking, and golfing, through the world's longest cave system, playing in our local parks and to our abundance of vacation rental homes waiting to host you, we wish you a very Merry Christmas from #thenaturalplacetobe!

The Caveland Quartet consists of Lonnie Miller, Lead; Hoyt Webb, Jr., Baritone; Bro. Jerry Patton, Bass; Joey Webb, Tenor

For more information on the exiting adventures awaiting you in #edmonsoncounty, visit our web site www.cavesandlakes.com.

submitted by Edmonson County Tourism and Cave Country Trails:
On a brisk December day, Cave Country Trails (CCTI) partners and friends gathered on the banks of the Nolin River to honor Junior Duvall as their very first Trail User of the Year. He was presented a vintage oar with a plaque that read: Junior Duvall - 2021 Trail User of the Year - in recognition of his undeniable passion for the outdoors and inspirational calls for others to join him on trails throughout our region.

“This award was created to recognize community members who are models of dedication to outdoor adventure,” said Rachelle Wright, CCTI Project Director. “Our board of directors enthusiastically supported honoring Duvall with the inaugural award for his enthusiasm and willingness to share that and his talents with his community.”

Joseph Senate Duvall, Jr., better known to locals as Junior, is a lifelong resident of Edmonson County, born and raised in the Sunfish community to a hardworking family of farmers. Spending his childhood on the farm sparked Junior’s appreciation and adventurous love of the outdoors. When not hard at work sowing the ground, he found himself riding ponies, zooming around on his dirt bike, hunting, and exploring the abundant creeks and fields peppered throughout the county.

Junior worked for 25 years as a sales rep for welding equipment and safety supplies, but the lure of farming couldn’t keep him away. He married his partner-in-adventure, Kim Johnson Duvall, in 2003 and became a fantastic Dad to their two children, Ben Owens and Emalee Duvall.

After officially retiring and finding himself with some free time, Junior started to trail hike, which reignited his appreciation for the great outdoors. Hiking led to biking, which led to kayaking and Junior was instantly hooked; he bought two kayaks and never looked back. The waters call to him like a siren song and you will find Junior, and his camera, on the trails through all four seasons. While he and Kim paddle and hike in multiple locations, the local trails offered in the Cave Country Trails region are his playground.

Sharing the rivers with local paddlers allowed Junior to learn about hidden natural gems off the beaten path, which he would take upon himself to research, explore, and share on his social media and with the Cave Country Trails audience. Junior once wrote “People you meet on the water seem to always flow the right way in life.”

His passion for outdoor adventures, especially kayaking, is evident when describing a trip down the river. According to his wife Kim, “Kayaking has become his passion. The rivers are different from day to day. He loves helping others see the beauty in what is around us every day that some may never get the chance to see. He has always had a kind and helping heart.”

“Junior knows these rivers better than most and we can always depend on him to encourage others to get out, paddle, and see how wonderful they are for themselves. Plus if we ever need him, he’s just a phone call away.” said Joel Davis, CCTI board member and owner of Green River Canoeing and Kayak.

“We thank Junior for all he does to promote trail use, and we look forward to honoring other trail users in years to come,” added Wright.

Cave Country Trails focuses on creating a regional network of biking, hiking, equestrian, and water trails to connect communities and make the Mammoth Cave Area and South Central Kentucky a more attractive outdoor destination and place to live. This initiative promotes healthy lifestyles while attracting visitors and new businesses, managed with local flavor, resulting in regional economic growth. The counties involved in Cave County Trails are Barren, Edmonson, Hart and Warren, including the Trail Towns of Munfordville, Park City, Cave City/Horse Cave and Brownsville. To learn more, visit cavecountrytrails.com

Edmonson Voice Report:
"Shelby Claus," one of Santa's helpers, was spotted in Brownsville today on his bike at the Brownsville Post Office. Shelby Duvall, one of Edmonson County's favorite residents, was out and about today spreading some Christmas cheer.

"I'm out here helping Santa Claus keep a watch on everybody," Shelby said.

He was greeting post office customers today and wishing them Merry Christmas. He was also happy to stop for a photo opportunity.

paid advertisement:
EDMONSON COUNTY 2021/2022 SPAY/NEUTER PROGRAM
 
Edmonson County and City of Brownsville have joined forces with Thomas & England Veterinary Services in Smiths Grove to offer Spay/Neuter vouchers for residents of Edmonson County.  Edmonson County residents can pick up vouchers from the Judge Executive’s Office Monday thru Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Cat spay/neuter vouchers will be in the amount of $40, with pet owner paying the difference based on sex of cat.  If cat has not had rabies vaccine, there will be an additional charge for that, you will need to show proof of rabies vaccination if you have it.

Dog spay/neuter vouchers will be in the amount of $50, with pet owner paying the difference based  on weight of dog.   If dog has not had rabies vaccine, there will be an additional charge for that, you will need to show proof of rabies vaccination if you have it.
 
Thomas & England is currently scheduling the spay/neuter appointments, so make your appointment as soon as possible by calling 270-563-0011.
 
The price range is below for the spay/neuter program:
 
Cat Spay (female) $50 - $ 40 voucher
Cat Neuter (male) $45 - $ 40 voucher
Dog Spay/Neuter: $50 voucher with owner paying the difference based on weight
 
Feel free to call the Judge Executive’s Office at either of these numbers with questions 270-597-2819 or 270-597-1079. Once vouchers are picked up, there is a 30- day expiration date, if the voucher is not used within 30 days, it will be voided and unable to redeem at Thomas & England. Individuals that pick-up vouchers will be required to show proof of residency in Edmonson County.

Edmonson Voice Report:
The Edmonson County Board of Education recognized several students and staff members at the November, 2021 Board of Education Meeting at Kyrock Elementary.

Kyrock students Jeremy Minton, Jones Young, McKenna Browning, Charly Beville, and Brody Hyman were all recognized for their outstanding achievements. The Pledge of Allegiance was also by Jeremy Minton.

Kyrock staff members Julie Harp and Ashley Haynes were also recognized for their recent efforts.

More staff members were recognized at the December 13, 2021 Board meeting held at South Edmonson Elementary, which were Hannah Potter and Shannon Lowe.

By Senator Steve Meredith:

In light of the tragic aftermath of the severe weather that swept across the Commonwealth last weekend, instead of delivering season's greetings and wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas, my message takes a different tone. I pray that your Christmas season is filled with love and blessings, and you will remember the reason for the season. However, as we all know, many of our fellow Kentuckians are facing unimaginable pain, grief, and loss.
 
For many, the seasonal festivities that make Christmas so joyful will not be their experience this year. The days, weeks, and months ahead will prove difficult in ways most can never imagine.  That is why we must unite as one Kentucky and work to bring hope, love, and peace to those who lost so much in a matter of hours. For a great example of our state's united response, look to the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund, which has received millions in contributions to help Kentuckians impacted by severe weather. All donations to the fund are tax-deductible. 
 
Coming off the heels of the pandemic, many who have been personally impacted are understandably facing challenging times. We can do much as a community to ease the pain of the losses suffered. Lend a helping hand at your local shelter or supply distribution center.  Consider donating to Toys for Tots to provide Christmas to a child who has been forever affected by this tragedy. Donate blood if you are able and lift your neighbors in prayer.
 
The devastation experienced in our communities impacted by this natural disaster will weigh heavily on all of us this holiday season. Let us be grateful for the blessings in our lives, including those who are there for us in moments of need —be it family, friends, neighbors, or strangers offering a helping hand. We cannot undo the tragedies across the Commonwealth; we can choose to be a positive force for recovery as a united Kentucky.
 
 
Note:  Senator Stephen Meredith (R-Leitchfield) represents the 5th Senate District, which includes Breckinridge, Edmonson, Grayson, Hart, LaRue, and Meade Counties. He serves as chair of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Human Resources and vice-chair of the Senate Standing Committees on Health and Welfare and Veterans, Military Affairs, and Public Protection. Senator Meredith also serves as co-chair of the Government Contract Review Committee and Medicaid Oversight and Advisory Committee. Finally, he is a member of the Senate Standing Committees on Education and Appropriations and Revenue. For a high-resolution .jpeg of Senator Meredith, please visit: https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators%20Full%20Res%20Images/senate105.jpg

Some classes from both South Edmonson Elementary and Kyrock Elementary Schools have submitted their letters to the North Pole with hopes that St. Nicholas soon will be here. 

The Edmonson Voice has received copies of the letters for publishing just in case they get lost in the mail, as Santa checks the Edmonson Voice everyday.

Mrs. Amber Priddy's Class, SEES:
Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a Barbie and a LOL Doll. And I promise to leave out cookies for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Ellington McReynolds P.S. Please say “Hi” to the baby elves for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a Sonic and Sonic and his wheel. And I promise to leave out cookies for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Abel Constant P.S. Please say “Hi” to me for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 6 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a toy dog and a doll. And I promise to leave out cookies for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Ava Joy P.S. Please say “Hi” to the elves for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a stuffed animal and a pop it. And I promise to leave out a note for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Colton Burnley P.S. Please say “Hi” to Rudolph for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 6 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a puppy toy and a cat toy. And I promise to leave out a new hat for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Raeleigh Atwood P.S. Please say “Hi” to the elves for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a Magic Mixie and Olaf. And I promise to leave out candy for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Ava Kemble P.S. Please say “Hi” to Ava for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 6 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a Venom Plushie and a Hulk Plushie. And I promise to leave out cookies for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Gunner Lee P.S. Please say “Hi” to the reindeer for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 6 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a picture of God and squishies. And I promise to leave out a cup and cookies for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Addyson Baker

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a unicorn circle pillow and a real phone. And I promise to leave out cookies for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Demi Lindsey P.S. Please say “Hi” to my toys for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is kinetic sand and a Barbie. And I promise to leave out cookies for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Amelia Johnson P.S. Please say “Hi” to the elves for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is wrapping presents for others and a Barbie house. And I promise to leave out a letter for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Blakely Kessinger P.S. Please say “Hi” to the elves for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is an eagle car and a bat bot. And I promise to leave out cookies and milk for you! And carrots for the reindeer. Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Harrison Baker P.S. Please say “Hi” to the elves for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 6 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time (because my elf said I am)! What I would like most this Christmas is a chair that looks like an egg and a watch to play games. And I promise to leave out cookies and milk for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Isla Childress P.S. Please say “Hi” to Rudolph for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is LOL toys and snowballs. And I promise to leave out a gun for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Charlotte Keown P.S. Please say “Hi” to Rudolph for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 6 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a doll with rainbow hair and a baby doll. And I promise to leave out cookies and milk for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Hayden Estes P.S. Please say “Hi” to the elves for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a PS5 and a camo hoverboard. And I promise to leave out cookies for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Keaton Lamastus P.S. Please say “Hi” to Rudolph for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 6 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a racecar and a boat. And I promise to leave out chocolate cookies and milk for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Charlie Horton P.S. Please say “Hi” to Rudolph for me!

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good this year. What I would like most this Christmas is a football/ And I promise to leave out cookie for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Gracie Gaine

Dear Santa, This Christmas, I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. What I would like most this Christmas is a Paw Patrol Vehicle and a Paw Patrol Tent. And I promise to leave out cookies for you! Merry Christmas, Santa! Love, Gabriel Doerr

Mrs. Stephanie Bullard's Class, SEES:
Dear Santa,
I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time.  I would really like to have_LOL’sand a cat for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Freya

Dear Santa,
I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time. I would really like to have a new Iphone and a makeup table for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Allison

Dear Santa,
I am 6 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. I would really like to have a LOL doll and a Barbie doll for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Lily

Dear Santa,
I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time.   I would really like to have a Pikachu toy and a Pokemon bed for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Harrison

Dear Santa,
I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. I would really like to have a toy truck and a tractor for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Gavin

Dear Santa,
I am 6 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time.  I would really like to have Barbie dolls and Paw Patrol toys for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Aubriella

Dear Santa,
 I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time. I would really like to have new clothes and Nerf guns for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Salem

Dear Santa,
 I am 6 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time.  I would really like to have Barbies and a Barbie dollhouse for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Emilia 

Dear Santa,
I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time. I would really like to have Army toys and a bucket of soldiers for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Brantley 

Dear Santa,
 I am 6 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time. I would really like to have Minecraft pajamas and a MInecraft coat for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, David

Dear Santa,
I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time. I would really like to have a mermaid doll and mermaid costume for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Rosa

Dear Santa,
I am 5 years old. This year, I have been good all of the time.  I would really like to have a scooter and a bike for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Ryker 

Dear Santa,
I am 6 years old. This year, I have good some of the time
I would really like to have a Husky puppy and a kitten for Christmas.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Nova

Dear Santa, 
I am 5 years old.  This year, I have been good some of the time.  I would really like to have a bouncy ball and a lizard for Christmas.  
Merry Christmas, 
Love, Ivan

Dear Santa, 
I am 5 years old.  This year, I have been good some of the time.  I would really like to have a Barbie camper and a Barbie dreamhouse.
Merry Christmas,
Love, Abigail

Dear Santa,
 I am 6 years old. This year, I have been good some of the time.  I would really like to have Rainbow High dolls and a LOL setup.
Merry Christmas!
Love, Kinley

Dear Santa, 
I am 5 years old.  This year, I have been good some of the time.  I would really like to have a Monster truck and a car.
Merry Christmas!
Love, Jacob

Mrs. Karen Jackson's Preschool Class SEES:
 
"Can I please see you Santa? I want a a real live unicorn and that's it! "   -Rylie
 
"Santa I want a doll and a stuffed animal." - Lucy
 
"I watns some barbies and dolls, that's all I need."        -Thea
 
"Santa I need a new kitchen because my other one is dirty. I want a bunk bed
and lots of new toys."    -Zaylee
 
"Santa I want a Goo Jit Zu. It's super stretchy and have minis and they have feelings inside of them."    -Andrew
 
"Santa I lovc you. Will you please bring me a live unicorn so I can ride it?"       -Maci Kate
 
"I want you to bring me a stuffed animal kitty cat because I like cats. Just a cat that's all!"          -Scarlett
 
"I want a sleigh so I can go down the hill when it snows. I will have lots of fun!"        -Claire
 
"I want you to bring me a new stove and a baby."        -Tinsley
 
"I want a shape pop it and a pink car like Jojo." -Zinna
 
"I really want a pot that makes magical toys, it has a wand and you say the magic work and BOOM it makes a toy!"    -Catherine
 
"I want a Barbie house!"         -Penny Jeanne
 
"I want a slinky because my other one is broken and I also want a trampoline!" -Charrlotte
 
"Santa I want two little ponies, white and pink." -Brooklyn
 
"I want a bunch of presents and a comfy chair!" -Brantley
 
"Santa I want a Paw Patrol you have to push it. I am going to have fun playing with it!"           -Maggie
 
"I want a monster truck you are suppose to have a remote with it, you press the button and it goes around and around."       -JT
 
"Santa will you bring me a batman robot?"         -Elliott
 
'Santa I hope you give me lots of presents. I want a tiger and a rocketship!"      -Hayden
 
"I want Santa to bring me a moster truck and a dog!"   Rylan
 
"I want an LOL that's alive and talks and a blue glitter baby and some toy cats!"                  -Maddie
 
"I want Santa to bring me King Kong, Godzilla, and dinosaurs!"              -Dean
 
"I want a Minecraft sword and a teddy bear."      -Evan
 
"I want Santa to bring a doll!" -Chloe
 
"I want Santa to bring me a real kitten!"    -Lyla Jane
 
"I want Santa to bring me a Ken doll and a new teddy!"         -Ella Ruth
 
"I want Santa to bring me a LOL doll!"      -Raelee
 
"I want Santa to bring me a dollhouse, a garden, a garage, and a swimming pool!"      -Cora
 
"I want Santa to bring me a skateboard and a race car!"         -Isaiah

Madison Doyle, story and photos:
What was formerly known as The Bee Spring Restaurant was reopened as The Bee at a ribbon cutting ceremony on December 14, 2021, hosted by the Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce. Owner Valina Page has worked for more than one owner at the restaurant as a cook since 2017, and says she is very excited to be reopening it as her own. 

"I have always had the love and passion for this job, the customers, and the restaurant. I have always taken care of it as my own." She continued, "I opened The Bee as my own with the love and support from my husband, family, friends, and (former owner) Scott (Brooks)."

Page said she could not have done this without the support of her family, customers, and community. 

Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce Director Greg Hudson encouraged the new owners of The Bee in their new endeavor and encouraged the community to help support it.

"The goal of the Chamber is to promote our local business community and we are proud to welcome another member into that," he said. "While this establishment has been here for many years, we are excited for the new owners and wish them the best in the direction they take this restaurant."

The restaurant, located at 7879 HWY 259N, in Bee Spring, is open daily and offers breakfast until 10:30am each day along with daily specials. They can be reached at 270-286-0222 and by their Facebook Page link here.

paid advertisement:

Edmonson Voice Report:
Through the combined efforts of REALTORS® Hope for Hunger and Feeding America, Kentucky’s Heartland (FAKH), a total of 8,708 servings of food have been distributed to families in need in Edmonson County Schools.

REALTORS® Hope for Hunger is a fundraiser conducted twice a year, with spring and fall campaigns. The cumulative efforts of those campaigns have resulted in a total of 787,893 servings in 2021. Now in its tenth year, the REALTORS® Hope for Hunger efforts have donated nearly 4 million servings of food to local area school districts.

The Realtors® Hope for Hunger, led by members of REALTORS® Association of Southern Kentucky, collects money to purchase food to be distributed throughout southern Kentucky in partnership with FAKH. This fall, more than $20,000 was raised and FAKH provided another $10,000 in food to assist families in need. Together, creating a total impact of 174,168 servings of food that was distributed throughout Edmonson and surrounding counties.

Family Resource Center Coordinator for South Edmonson and Kyrock Elementary Schools discussed how the food would be distributed.

"A portion of the food will be used for families that will be picking up Toys for Tots assistance," she said. "The rest will be distributed to each center to be given out as emergency food baskets for the families we serve. We appreciate our partnership with the Realtors Association and Feeding America.  Both help provide so much throughout the year for families who are in need of a little extra help."

FAKH Executive Director Jamie Sizemore said “With rising grocery and fuel prices eating into family budgets, parents are faced with tough choices. This food donation should ease the burden on families as they go into the holiday break. Again, Feeding America, Kentucky’s Heartland is proud to be a partner with the REALTORS® Hope for Hunger project.”

Click the flyer to visit their Facebook event: