By: Aimee Nielson, submitted article
It’s already hot outside, but University of Kentucky agricultural meteorologist Matthew Dixon said it’s about to get even hotter over the weekend, and livestock producers and horse owners need to do what they can to minimize animal stress.

“Much of the state is under an excessive heat warning through Sunday evening,” Dixon said. “We expect highs to jump into the low to middle 90s each day. Some areas hitting the upper 90s cannot be ruled out. Combined with elevated humidity, peak heat indices will likely run between 100 and 110 degrees. This heat will push the livestock heat stress index into the Danger to Emergency categories during the afternoon and evening hours.”

The combination of heat and humidity can cause concern for livestock.

“The livestock heat stress index helps us determine what level of concern farmers and pet owners need to have for their animals,” said Dixon, who works with the Agricultural Weather Center in the UK College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. “That index helps producers know when heat stress could create a problem for their animals, so they can be even more vigilant in making sure they have to the necessary resources to combat the stress.”

Many livestock producers are familiar with the steps they need to take to help animals endure these dangerous conditions.

“The most important thing producers can do is provide cool, clean water and shade,” said Jeff Lehmkuhler, UK beef specialist. “It’s also a good idea to avoid working or transporting animals during periods of danger or emergency heat stress.”

Horses have difficulty regulating their body temperature when temperatures exceed 90 degrees. If humidity is high, the temperature doesn’t even have to reach 90 degrees to make life uncomfortable.

“Horse owners can reduce heat stress by scheduling activities during the cooler part of the day and making sure horses have plenty of water,” said Bob Coleman, UK equine extension specialist. “If you do transport horses during the cooler part of the day, give water before, during and after transportation to reduce the risk of dehydration.”

Coleman added that even non-working horses will double their water intake during hot weather. Owners should allow them to drink often to help maintain water balance.

“If you let them drink often, it can relieve the horse’s urge to drink a lot of water after exercise, and they need to gradually drink after a workout,” he said. “Also remember, lactating mares have special water requirements, because they are using water for milk production as well as body temperature regulation.”

Hot weather also increases horses’ need for salt, because they lose the mineral during sweating.

For dairy cattle, it is important to keep buildings as open as possible to allow air to circulate. Fans can make a big difference, and sprinkler systems that periodically spray a cool mist on the animals are also beneficial.

Poultry are especially prone to heat stress. Mortality during extreme heat can be significant, and egg production and hatching rates can drop.

“Since the birds don’t have sweat glands to help get rid of excess body heat, they have to pant to cool down,” said Jacquie Jacob, UK poultry extension project manager. “It’s important to make sure chickens are in well-ventilated areas and they have access to clean, cool water at all times.”

Dixon said the good news is that relief is on the way.

“A strong cold front will push through the region Sunday night, July 21,” he said. “This will bring a much more comfortable air mass to Kentucky over the next work week.”

The UK Agricultural Weather Center provides statewide and county-specific weather information, alerts, livestock heat stress conditions and more. To view the index for a specific location, go to http://weather.uky.edu/ukawc2.php or click a specific location from the Kentucky map athttp://weather.uky.edu

​Note: the thoughts and opinions expressed by Edmonson Voice guest columnists and authors of submitted articles are their own, not necessarily those of EdmonsonVoice.com ​

Lisa M. Anspach, FONL Events Coordinator:
It was a beautiful day for the 2019 Friends of Nolin Lake Family Fest at Moutardier Recreation Area. On top of our yearly sponsors, we partnered with Jackilyn Photography, Kona Ice Etown, Nolin River Lake, USACE, Louisville District and Sherry’s Restaurant to meet almost 200 of our friends!

The Nolin River Lake USACE, Louisville District provided water safety games and activities along with cornhole. Sherry’s Restaurant served our friends free hot dogs or hamburgers and Kona Ice Etown provided free Kona Ice to the kids.

​Friends of Nolin Lake staff and volunteers set up several activities including badminton, horseshoes, table bowling, ladder ball, outdoor Jenga and a water sponge fight. An inflatable bounce house and slide were available for those who completed the water safety activity.

Photographs from the day’s events are available on Jackilyn Photography’s Facebook page (and the Friends of Nolin Lake page). Big thanks to all who spent the afternoon with us! We can’t wait to see you at Nolin Fest on August 10th!

Note: the thoughts and opinions expressed by Edmonson Voice guest columnists and authors of submitted articles are their own, not necessarily those of EdmonsonVoice.com

 Josh Boyd, Edmonson Voice Contributor, column and photo:
As the latter half of July carries on and August grows near, summer time anglers continue to frequent the waterways of south central Kentucky despite the sweltering heat. All the while, the thought of fall's magnificent fishing opportunities and mild weather patterns linger in the not-so-distant future. As summer edges ever closer to it's eminent merger with fall, boating traffic on many waterways has the potential to reach peak yearly numbers.
 
What many boaters fail to recognize is how quickly accidents can, and do happen on waterways across our nation every year. According to the last released U.S Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics Report, published in regards to the 2017 boating season, there were 658 fatalities on American waterways recorded within the yearly surveyed period. Even more staggering, is the fact that in a large number of the reported incidents, the primary contributing circumstances were of an avoidable nature--had proper means of boating safety been utilized. By avoiding the following commonly overlooked aspects of boating safety, one can do their part to protect against potential tragedy on the water.
 
Failure To Wear Life Jackets
Many excuses are given by boaters each year in regards to why they do not regularly wear life jackets during the duration of their outings on the water. Being cumbersome, lacking adequate ventilation to prevent excess heat, and the perceived lack of necessity are all commonly given reasons for not using life jackets. However, accidents often happen without a moment's notice and a life jacket will be of no use to a boat's occupants if they are not worn. The ideology that you will have the opportunity to dawn a life jacket as a  boating accident is unfolding, is likely as far fetched as the notion that an individual will have time to secure a seatbelt once an automobile collision is already in progress.

The Edmonson Voice is once again proud to be a sponsor of one of the area's premier benefit events, the 2019 Santa's Helping Hands Annual Golf Scramble. This year's event will be held at Shady Hollow Golf Club for the third consecutive year.

Four-man teams are $200 per team and hole sponsorships are available for businesses or individuals for $50 each. Over $1000 worth of prizes will be awarded. 

Check out all the details on the official event flyer and contact anyone listed for more information.

The good 'ol boys are returning to the Chalybeate Fire Department once again, well--at least their cars will be, for the annual fundraiser event for the department.

Chalybeate Fire Chief Daniel Johnson says he expects a bigger crowd than ever as more items have been added to the lineup, which is scheduled for Saturday, August 17th.

"We've really enjoyed bringing these cars out before and the community has really responded well to our fundraisers," he said. "So many of us grew up watching the Dukes of Hazzard, so to get a close-up view of these cars brings back a lot of good memories. 

The cars are furnished by the Tennessee company, Hazzard Life. While the cars are replicas of the exact models in the show, The General Lee features autographs inside the trunk's deck lid from the show's main characters and stunt drivers. The company specializes in building and maintaining The General Lee (69 Dodge Charger), Daisy's Roadrunner, (1974 Plymouth Roadrunner from seasons 1 and 2), and Rosco's patrol car (1976 Plymouth Fury).

In addition to the iconic cars, the event will also feature over 20 different vendor booths from the area, Pelican Ice sno-cones, and a live DJ to provide music throughout the day.

A live auction is scheduled for 2:30pm which will be followed by the grand finale: a police chase on Chalybeate Road featuring the 440 Magnum V-8 powered General Lee and Roscoe's patrol car. Local law enforcement will temporarily shut down the highway for safety purposes. 

Barbeque plates, hot dogs, and more concession items will be served by members of the fire department and all proceeds will benefit CVFD.

"This will be a fun family event that everyone can enjoy," Johnson said. "Even if the cars aren't your thing, come check out our vendors, enjoy some music, and grab some food--all while helping our fire department."

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Local youth Scotty Hagan has qualified and is ready to fish in his second B.A.S.S. Jr World Nationals. Scotty also qualified last year for the2018 B.A.S.S. Nation State qualifiers.

The tournament will be held on Carroll County 1,000 Acre Lake in Mackenzie, TN.  Scotty is allowed to pre-fish until July 20th and then tournament waters go off limits until August 3rd-4th. On August 6-7th Scotty will represent the state of Kentucky along with one other co-angler. He will be competing for scholarship money among other prizes. Weigh-in will be live on Bassmaster.com.

“All of Scotty’s family and friends are excited for his opportunity again to fish against other youth ages the 7-14 that are the best in the country,” said Carlet Hagan, Scotty Hagan’s mother. “We invite all to join in the fun of watching the weigh-in, as hopefully all of the first year jitters are behind him and he can focus on the task at hand of catching big fish.” 

​According to Carlet, Scotty’s brother Mason Hagan missed fishing with him in the finals by just ounces this year. She stated that with the new team format next year, she expects the brothers to be qualifying more as the years go by. 

Scotty is the son of Raymond and Carlet Hagan of Mammoth Cave.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
The Brownsville Post Office, located at 535 S Main St., is hosting a Passport Fair this Thursday, July 18, 2019.  The Fair hours are 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.  The additional hours assist busy families in planning for the upcoming travel season.
 
Fairs serve customers on a first come, first served basis.  No appointments are needed.  (There is a limited capacity for acceptance.) 
 
NOTE:  The State Department now recommends allowing six to eight weeks for processing.  For an additional fee, they will expedite the application within three weeks.
 
Customers have the option of applying for a passport book (good for all international travel) or the passport card (good only for land and sea travel between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda).
 
Passport Fees
 
Passport Card
$30 Adults (Age 16 Years and Older)
$15 Minors (Under Age 16)

Passport Book
$110 Adults (Age 16 Years and Older)
$80 Minors (Under Age 16)

Passport Card and Book
$140 Adults (Age 16 Years and Older)
$95 Minors (Under Age 16)

The fees listed above must be paid with a personal check or money order. There is a $35 processing/acceptance fee and a $15 fee for photos, which can be paid for by cash, personal check, debit and credit cards, or money order.  The Brownsville Post Office offers passport photo services.
 
To apply for a passport, travelers need to complete Passport Application Form DS-11 (unsigned) and provide one of the following: a U.S. birth certificate from the Department of Vital Statistics (not a certificate of birth) or naturalization papers. Applicants must also show either a valid driver’s license, a previous or current U.S. passport book or card, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, military I.D. or a federal, state or municipal government employee I.D. card. Applicants 15 & under must be present with both parents unless consent is given; ages 16 & 17 require only one parent be present.
 
For more information about passport application requirements and to download forms, visit the State Department’s travel website at www.travel.state.gov.
 
NOTE:  For appointments during regular passport processing hours, the U.S. Postal Service has made scheduling easier with the launch of the USPS Retail Customer Appointment Scheduler™ tool (RCAS) at http://www.usps.com/scheduler.  The RCAS™ tool provides customers with an easy, convenient way to schedule appointments to apply for a passport.
 
Customers can register for Informed Delivery to see digital images of incoming mail, before it’s delivered to the mailbox. 

​The Kentuckiana District serves ZIP Codes 400-409, 411-427 in Kentucky and 471, 476-477 in southern Indiana.
 
The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses, and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

Check out this unique opportunity from United Country Real Estate: Heartland Realty & Auction:

Click the ad to visit the official "Scare on the Square GC" Facebook Page:

Moriah Peterson, story and photos:
The community gathered on the courthouse lawn on Saturday July 13, 2019 to honor two Edmonson County native Veterans, Cpl. James Larry Hightower and Master Sergeant (Ret) Larry L. Hawks.

The opening prayer was led by brother Jerry Patton, and the Barren County Chapter 20 DAV Honor Guard presented the U.S Flag. Edmonson County resident Destiny Day Butler preformed the "Star Spangled Banner" and "Amazing Grace".

Guest speakers included State Representative Micheal Meredith, Judge Executive Wil Cannon, and Brownsville Kentucky Mayor Jerry Meredith. DAV Senior Vice Commander Mike Stoyonovich, read biographies of both Veterans during the ceremony. 

A recognition ceremony was held for retired Master Sergeant Larry L. Hawks 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) the recipient of Distinguished Service Cross for "Valorous Actions" in Afghanistan in 2005.

​SFC Hawks is the son of Tonie and Patsy Hawks of Wingfield. He and his wife, Callie Hawks, currently reside in Clinton NC, with thier sons, Tristan and Adian and daughters, Lorin and Addie. 

The Distinguished Service Cross is the second highest military award that can be given to a member of the United States Army, for extreme gallantry and risk of life in actual combat with an armed enemy force. 

The following is from the citation for Sargent First Class Hawk's Distinguished Service Cross: For extraordinary heroism and valor while engaged in hostile action against anti coalition forces in the town of Syahcow as the Senior Engineer Sergeant for ODA 324. SFC Hawks' valor, dedication to duty, and disregard for his own personal safety directly contributed to mission accomplishment. His gallantry under extreme enemy fire led to the destruction of a determined enemy and helped to save the lives of his fellow detachment members and coalition solders. His performance reflects great credit upon himself, the combined joint task force-Afghanistan, and the United States Army. 

During the Ceremony, Master Sergeant Larry. L. Hawks thanked all who attended and the event organizers for all their efforts.

In the ceremony, Green Street in Brownsville was dedicated to the honor and memory Corporal James Larry Hightower, a Edmonson County native and U.S Marine Corps Co. G, 3rd Marines, who was killed in action on October 22, 1966, during a search and destroy op in Khe Le Valley, Vietnam.

​Corporal James Larry Hightower was the son of Russell and Margaret Denham Hightower of Brownsville, and had one brother, William G. Hightower. Luther N. Norene, a second cousin to Corporal James Larry Hightower, was also in attendance of dedication and recognition ceremony.

​Josh Boyd, column and photos:
The familiar twitch of a rod tip, followed by a pole bending double to the accompanying sound of line being stripped from a reel is enough to elevate any angler's heart rate. The excitement of the bite and anticipation of the fight that awaits often elicits a frenzied response from a fisherman. Each crank of the reel brings the fisherman that much closer to landing their prize. With a sense of exhaustion from a hard won fight and the rush of adrenaline leaving them shaking, an angler drags the whiskered behemoth from the murky waters.
 
These are the realities of a successful day on the water fishing for catfish. Numerous reasons exist for catfish continually being among one of the most commonly sought after fish species in waterways all across America. Their relative abundance in many regions, relentless hard fighting tendencies, and well deserved reputation as quality table fare are just a few of the reasons for the popularity of catfishing. During the hot biting summer months of June-August, untold numbers of individuals looking for fishing fun will flock to bodies of water day and night in pursuit of hard fighting catfish.

 
Catfish are generally fished for using relatively heavy tackle. Their reputation as stout fighters warrant such a need. Care must be taken when selecting a catfish rod to evaluate the size of fish that you are most likely to be catching. When fishing in a farm for channel catfish where the average fish is likely to be one to five pounds, far less rod is required than when targeting larger flathead catfish in a lake or river. While it is important for a rod to be strong enough to complete the desired task, fishing with too heavy of a rod will, in some cases, make the detection of lighter biting smaller catfish difficult.
 
Reels for catfishing come in the form of spincasting, spinning, and baitcasting. All of these reels have merit in certain situations, but ultimately the decision of which reel to choose comes down to the size of catfish that you intend on pursuing. Generally, 20 pound test or greater line is the popular choice among those angling for catfish. No matter the chosen test of line, it is advisable to ensure that the drag on your reel of choice is set properly before you venture out on the water. A properly adjusted drag serves to circumvent the issue of line breakage, while also ensuring an adequate amount of line tension for making forward progress when working a sizable catfish to shore.

Several different varieties of tackle options exist on the market for catfishing today. Hooks come in multiple forms with bait holder, treble, and circular hooks being the most commonly used offerings. All of these hook forms come in varying sizes to custom suit your needs. Likewise, sinkers come in multiple forms and sizes as well. Bell, egg, flat, and split shot sinkers are among some of the most popular styles.
 
Bait choices for catfish are as numerous as the day is long. Nightcrawlers, chicken livers, and production stink or dough baits are favorites among anglers pursuing channel catfish. Many who fish predominantly for flathead catfish prefer live bait such as small bluegill and use it to much success. Catfish are known to readily feed on a wide array of food sources, therefore making bait selection somewhat of a trial and error process.
 
This summer, take to the water in search of some of the most enjoyable fishing that the state of Kentucky has to offer.  Fish after fish and smile after smile, your day will be much the richer for doing so. Then watch the sunset while reflecting on the joys of the day over a dinner of fresh catfish fillets.  ​

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Chalybeate Food Mart owners Manish and Nisha Patel, their son Parin, and Manish's father Baldev, presented a $1000 check to Edmonson County Schools today at the 13th annual Cram the Cruiser/Stuff The Bus event, which was the biggest success in the event's history.

"We have a good business and it's because of our good community," said Manish. "We wanted to help our local kids that have needs at school. I have a son in Edmonson County Schools and they are good schools. We just want to help the kids of our community."

Manish said he and his family have seen firsthand what community support can do and he believes it's their obligation to give back.

"I believe we all should try to help each other," he added.

This year's event has raised more than $3K, all of which go directly to the school supply needs of students in Edmonson County Schools.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
The Friends of Nolin Lake Familyfest will take place at the picnic shelter at Moutardier Marina this Saturday, July 13th for from 11 am to 2 pm.  This event will feature fun family music, many inflatable jumping balloons, water safety, games, Kona Ice, and face painting.
 
The event is free of charge to the public and some free food and drinks will be complimentary to the first arriving guests, while the free food lasts.
 
“The event serves as a platform to assist our US Army Corps of Engineers deliver water safety information to our children and adults alike so that we may all have a fun and safe summer on our Nolin Lake, and other waterways” stated Rhonda Clemmons, Edmonson County Chamber & Tourism Director. “Also, mark your calendars for their next event, Nolinfest Sat. Aug. 10th, also at Moutardier, that will feature their spectacular fireworks show at nightfall, “ stated Clemmons. For more information visit www.friendsofnolinlake.org

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County's annual Cram The Cruiser and Stuff The Bus school supply drive event is scheduled to launch Friday, June 12th. School and community volunteers will be set up at Dollar General in Chalybeate (10am-3pm), Family Dollar (10am-3pm), and Ace Hardware (3pm-5pm) to accept monetary and supply donations; however, local organizers have created a new way for the community to help even if you're not able to attend.

Local businesses all across the county are selling $1 donation tabs that will go directly to Edmonson County Schools. Just add one of the donation tabs to your order at checkout for only one dollar and your name will be placed on the tab and displayed to show your support of local students in need.

All participating businesses are selling the above "Cram the Cruiser--Edmonson County" tabs for one dollar. Ace Hardware, which is part of the Stuff The Bus Foundation of Southern KY, is also selling tabs at their Brownsville location. While the tabs are "Stuff The Bus," 100% of those sales will also go directly to Edmonson County students.

​Lisa Whobrey, Community Education Director of Edmonson County, and one of the event's local coordinators, says the event is to try to help all students begin the year on a level playing field.

"We know lots of parents purchase their own students' supplies before the start of school and wonder why we need donations," she said. "Not all students are able to acquire everything they need to be successful, and that's where Cram the Cruiser and Stuff The Bus come in."

Whobrey said while cash donations and standard school supplies are welcomed, other items like clothing, non-perishable food items, and personal hygiene products are also needed.

"We want to close the gaps that can keep students from succeeding in Edmonson County. This annual event is huge for us and we're asking our community once again to help make a difference," she said. 

Ace Hardware Stuff The Bus donations will be accepted through July 20th, and the Cram The Cruiser donation tabs will be available through the beginning of August.

​Here's another exciting auction from Ken Byrd Realty & Auction! Click the flyer for all the details!

Join Brownsville Missionary Baptist Church for a completely free VBS starting next week. Children will receive full dinners served each night, along with time for worship, games, crafts, Bible study and more!

Click on the flyer below to preregister.