Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
On Tuesday March 12, 2019 Edmonson County High School seniors participated in Adulting 101, a program that is presented by the Edmonson County Family Resource/Youth Services Center and Edmonson County Community Education.

The purpose of this program is to teach students about "real life" situations that are often not taught in the standard classroom. 

The program focused on teaching students about preparing their own meals, personal safety and drug awareness, banking and general business, the basics on voting, and internet safety.

Special volunteers that helped at the event were: SKYCTC Culinary Instructor Tammy Inscoe, WKU Police Officer Timothy Gray, safety instructor Mike Lemon, PVA Kyle White, and Circuit Court Clerk Tanya Hodges. More similar activities are planned for the remainder of the week.

The following students were named winners at the 2019 Entrepreneur Fair: 1st Place- Caleb Hall and Jayden Bocock (J & C Nerf Blast), 2nd Place- Jack Browning (Spin to Win), and 3rd Place- Brylee Goins (Stress Ball Boutique). The best decorated booth winner was Ella Lindsey (EL The Pet Shack).

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Edmonson County resident Sput Houchins was inducted into the South Central Kentucky Walking Horse Association Hall of Fame on March 9, 2019 at the Barren River State Park.

Several friends and family members attended and congratulated him on this award. 

by: Ashley Osborne, 4-H youth development specialist
Spring and its warmer weather is just around the corner. Now is the time to start getting your young people outdoors and letting them experience Mother Nature as she awakes from her winter slumber.

​Youth can receive numerous benefits from getting outdoors and into nature. Sunlight exposure can help reduce nearsightedness and increase vitamin D levels. Playing outdoors also increases young people’s physical activity which helps reduce their risk for becoming overweight or obese.

Exploring nature can also help young people improve their relationship skills and reduce stress, anger and aggression. Research has shown that youth who regularly interact with their natural environment are better communicators, better cooperators and misbehave less than their peers. Learning in nature requires young people to pay attention to the environment around them. This unique teaching method helps youth focus better once they return to the classroom. Nature also promotes a hands-on learning environment, which can lead to improved academics for young people.

You can encourage your young person to spend more time outdoors in many different ways. Here are some ideas:
∙         Plant a garden filled with all kinds of different vegetables or flowers.
∙         Make it educational. Teach your child about different trees, plants and bugs that live in your yard.
∙         Weather permitting, set aside a time after school each day for outdoor playtime and exploration.
∙         Take a walk or a hike. Many Kentucky communities have made advancements over the years to increase their walk-ability and built environment. Take advantage of local trails or, on the weekends, go explore one of the numerous beautiful trails found in the state’s parks, nature preserves and arboretums.

In Kentucky 4-H, our programming allows us to get youth outside through a variety of different ways. Many of our counties have outdoor clubs that explore local environments. Many of our projects encourage youth to get outdoors and pay attention to and collect information from their natural environment. We also host the ever popular summer camps.

For more information about 4-H programs that explore nature, contact the Edmonson County Extension office at 270-597-3628.

Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expressions, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.

​by Rep. Michael Meredith:
The 2019 session is coming to a close as we finish up passing bills and move toward the veto recess. The 10-day veto period is an opportunity for the Governor to either sign bills into law or veto them, and is followed by a two-day “override” period where we have an opportunity to override any bills he may veto.
 
At this point in the legislative process, two bills have been signed into law by the Governor. Senate Bill 4 requires candidates for public office to file their campaign finance reports online, which will help the public access information in a much more timely matter. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 77 expands Kentucky’s organ donor registry in order to combat any decline in registration based on new timetables for renewing driver’s licenses. Individuals can now register to be organ donor when they log into the Kentucky Online Gateway, a website utilized by many to sign up for state services.
 
Conference Committees have been appointed to negotiate final agreements on a tax cleanup measure, House Bill 354, and legislation modifying the current state budget, House Bill 268. A conference committee includes members of leadership from both the House and Senate, and is tasked with compromising on bills passed by both legislative chambers that are related to each other, but have some key differences.
 
Among the bills passed by the House and sent to the Senate this week is HB 61, a workforce development bill that I was proud to support. House Bill 61 would allow Kentucky students who have received a scholarship through the Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarship Program (KEES) to apply the scholarship towards a qualifying apprenticeship or qualified workforce training program. Qualified programs include those that are in one of Kentucky’s top five high-demand work sectors. We are expanding the use of an effective tool to prepare our individual students for beneficial, well-paying careers while creating a skilled, prepared workforce for economic development purposes.
 
In other news, the House Judiciary Committee recently passed Senate Bill 97, which would create a tracking system for sexual assault forensic evidence kits. This measure would put into place a tracking process creating a public portal for victims to access the system, with the information also being submitted to the Kentucky State Police. SB 97 will now come before the full House for consideration.
 
I expect us to soon take up a measure which has already passed the House Economic Development Committee, and would provide more opportunities for beginning farmers. SB 246 would create a farmer small business tax credit underneath existing small business tax incentive programs, and would allow a farmer to receive a credit for selling their farm to a beginning farmer. The maximum credit for each year is $25,000, and $100,000 for a lifetime.
 
I also would like to provide you with a brief update on legislation I am personally working on. HB 311, which prohibits lab grown meat from being labeled as real meat, was passed by the Senate and is heading to the Governor’s desk for his signature. I was proud to carry this measure in strong support of our cattle farmers and agriculture community, as consumers deserve to know where their meat comes from. House Bill 132 also passed through a Senate Committee, which is legislation I’m sponsoring to stiffen prison sentences for individuals convicted of murdering EMS personnel. This legislation amends existing protections for firefighters and peace officers to also cover our dedicated emergency service workers, sending a message that our society does not tolerate the murder of any first responder.
 
We are in session for a few days this week to sort through some final bills before sending them onto the Governor’s desk. While our work during this session may be nearly complete, there are still some major issues remaining. Please feel free to reach out to me with your thoughts and ideas on other critical issues before us as we wrap up this session.

Rep. Michael Lee Meredith represents the 19th House District, which includes Edmonson County and part of Warren County. Contact him with any questions, concerns, or advice. He can be reached through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181, or via e-mail at [email protected]

by: Senator Steve Meredith
The pace of activity inside the Capitol is picking up as we rapidly approach the end of the 153rd Regular Session. With only a few days left to pass bills, the Kentucky General Assembly has been working in overdrive to develop the best legislative policy for the Commonwealth.
 
Many big issues have been addressed in this 30-day short session. This was one of our busiest weeks yet, as bills concerning abortion, medical marijuana, and education had Frankfort buzzing with visitors who attended rallies and committee meetings.
 
Policy relating to the use of e-cigarettes or “vaping” was also addressed. Senate Bill 218 would establish an anonymous system for students to report vaping and would encourage school boards to inform teachers and students of the dangers of e-cigarette use and nicotine addiction.
 
The major legislative priority, tax reform, was addressed this week, as the Senate took up the tax overhaul bill, House Bill 354. Amended by a Senate committee substitute, HB 354 would exempt nonprofits from collecting and remitting sales tax on admissions to charity events in addition to making it clear in statute that one-time fundraising events are not subject to the sales tax. HB 354 is now before a free conference committee, a joint committee of senators and representatives directed to reach agreement on legislation of which the two chambers are unable to agree.
 
I am the proud sponsor of Senate Bill 110 and Senate Bill 149. SB 110 and SB 149 have both passed in the Senate and the House and are awaiting the Governor's signature.  Both bills focus upon reducing costly, redundant and unnecessary red tape for health care providers which translates to lower health care cost of my constituents. Additionally, I have two other bills that have passed through the Senate and are awaiting final approval of the House.
 
The first bills of the session were signed into law by Governor Bevin during the sixth week of session. They include Senate Bill 77, a measure that would allow people to join Kentucky’s organ donor registry via a single sign-on system, and Senate Bill 4, legislation that would require mandatory electronic filing of all candidates’ campaign finance reports.
 
In a recent calendar revision, the General Assembly will begin its veto recess on March 15 and final adjournment of the 2019 Regular Session is now scheduled for March 28. The revised session calendar can be found online at www.legislature.ky.gov.
 
Lastly, I would like to congratulate Senator-elect Phillip Wheeler on his recent special election victory. The Senate Republican Caucus is proud to welcome him and know he will represent the 31st Senate District well.
 
Thank you for reaching out with your questions and concerns. It is an honor to represent you in Frankfort.
 
If you have any questions or comments about the issues or any other public policy issue, please call me toll-free at 1-800-372-7181 or email me at[email protected].  You can also review the Legislature’s work online at www.legislature.ky.gov.

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Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
The Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce has announced the 2019 membership drive has begun.

According to the Chamber, Existing members will receive their renewal form in the mail in the first week of January. All new members are welcome.

Memberships can be mailed with a check or paid on online at www.edmonsonchamber.com. Just click on the join tab  and follow prompts all with paying online convenience.
 
The Chamber of Commerce strives through out the year to promote Edmonson County in its best light, offering assistance to folks inquiring and seeking specific businesses, as well as helping travelers and those relocating to the area, the Chamber said in a statement.

“We get many inquiries from those visiting the lake, seeking or enjoying vacation or a second home lake houses and needing goods and services” said Rhonda Clemmons, Chamber Director.
 
“We help with maps, phone number and web site assistance, and our online directory of businesses“, said Clemmons. “We help business owners and service providers the entire year.”
 
The Chamber of Commerce is entirely operated from memberships. Individuals and non-profits can join for as little as $30 per year and the most popular business membership is $75 per year. For more information visit the Chamber web site at www.edmonsonchamber.com or call 270-597-2222.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) today announced the beginning of the 2019 Congressional Art Competition.
 
The Congressional Art Competition is an annual high school art contest held by each of the U.S. House of Representatives in their respective congressional districts.
 
“There are so many talented students in the Second District, and every year I am impressed by the level of skill among the submissions to the annual Congressional Art Competition,” said Guthrie. “I look forward to seeing this year’s entries. Best of luck to all of the participants!”
 
All high school art students (grades 9-12) are encouraged to submit artwork for the competition. Artwork and application materials are due to Congressman Guthrie’s Bowling Green District Office by Wednesday, April 10, 2019.
 
The winner and finalists will be selected by an independent panel of art professors from colleges and universities across Kentucky’s Second District. The first place winner from each congressional district will receive two tickets to fly to Washington, D.C., to view their artwork on display in the U.S. Capitol and attend a congressional reception in their honor. The winning artwork will hang in the U.S. Capitol for the rest of the year.
 
Additionally, Congressman Guthrie will hold a “Facebook Favorite” competition to give members of the general public the opportunity to vote for their favorite entries. Artwork will be posted on his official Facebook page, and the winning piece will be displayed in Congressman Guthrie’s Bowling Green District Office. The online competition will be open from Monday, April 15 – Thursday, April 18 at 5:00 PM (EDT).
 
Winners will be announced on Tuesday, April 23, 2019. All artwork will be returned to the students following the competition.
 
Rules and guidelines are available under the “Constituent Services” section of Congressman Guthrie’s website. Faculty or students with questions can also reach out to Congressman Guthrie’s Bowling Green District Office at 270-842-9896.

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Some impressive artwork is now on display at South Edmonson Elementary, but it's not the usual creative work of local students. US Bank in Bowling Green has donated nearly $4,000 worth of art that once donned the walls at their downtown branch on State Street. 

“We would like to express our gratitude to Mr. Craig Browning and U.S. Bank for donating nearly $4,000 worth of artwork to our art room. The bank was in the process of redecorating and thought our students would enjoy seeing these three massive, colorful acrylic paintings created by professional artist Walter Stomps," said SEES art/music teacher Jessica Doyle.

​The acrylic artworks are similar to those that the students regularly study in class. The donation was made possible by US Bank Regional President Craig Browning, who is an Edmonson County resident.

​“The students and I have loved adding these colorful, abstract paintings to our art room walls. Thank you to Mr. Craig Browning and U.S. Bank for this awesome donation," said Mrs. Doyle.

by: Senator Steve Meredith
As we approach the latter days of the 2019 Regular Session, the Capitol remains as busy as ever. Countless visitors from across Kentucky advocated important issues in a week that had no shortage of legislative activity.
 
Significant bills are heading to Governor Bevin’s desk with the hope that they will soon be signed into law. As the result of months of discussion and collaboration, Senate Bill 1, the School Safety and Resiliency Act, passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in the House. SB 1, sponsored by Senator Max Wise, would boost school safety by improving the type of personnel, systems and structures, and student culture in Kentucky’s schools. While in the House, improvements were added to the language such as creating the position of the state school safety marshal, whose role would be similar to that of a state fire marshal. We are hopeful that this pivotal school safety bill will soon be signed into law.
 
Senate Bill 4 is also awaiting a signature from the Governor. SB 4, sponsored by Senator Damon Thayer, would require all candidates running for a public office in Kentucky to electronically file their campaign finance reports starting in 2020. This bill eliminates the option of filing a paper report with the exception of candidates whose campaigns raise less than $3,000. As more filing measures move to digital platforms, SB 4 establishes an organized and efficient way to report campaign finances.
 
The Senate passed two substantial bills this week, which were sponsored by Senate President Robert Stivers. Senate Bill 6 addresses executive branch ethics by requiring the disclosure of executive agency lobbyist compensation. Senate Bill 2 would allow a broader representation of elected judges to hear cases which affect the entire Commonwealth and its constituency rather than two circuit judges who are elected by only the residents of Franklin County.
 
Additionally, three bills which I sponsored passed out of the Senate.  Senate Bill 149 would allow a provider to appeal multiple insurance claims for health and medical services in a single external review and allow a single administrative hearing to be held to appeal the final decision of an external review that involved multiple claims.  Senate Bill 110 would amend these definition of credentialing verification organization to delete the requirement that verification by certain non-profits to only include employees of its members.  Senate Bill 41 would increase transparency and accountability for contingency fee legal personal services contracts entered into on behalf of our commonwealth.
 
We also passed a pro-life bill commonly known as the Born Alive Infant Protection Act. Senate Bill 227, sponsored by Senator Whitney Westerfield, requires that medical professionals take all appropriate steps necessary to preserve the life and health of an infant who is born alive after a failed abortion. This commonsense bill is another legislative stride to protect life here in Kentucky.
 
Thank you for your continued feedback and support. It is an honor to represent you in Frankfort, and I look forward to continued discussion on a number of issues facing our district and the Commonwealth.
 
If you have any questions or comments about these issues or any other public policy issue, please call me toll-free at 1-800-372-7181 or e-mail me at[email protected].  You can also review the Legislature’s work online at www.legislature.ky.gov.

by Rep. Michael Meredith:
The 2019 session is nearing its ending point, and I am proud to say that the General Assembly accomplished our top legislative priority. Senate Bill 1 – also known as the School Safety & Resiliency Act – is heading to the Governor’s desk after passing both the House and Senate.
 
SB 1 is a profound step toward both securing our schools and strengthening our students. This legislation is a bold step forward in tackling an issue brought to light by last year’s shooting at Marshall County High School, a tragedy that rocked our commonwealth. The death of two young children highlighted the need for action, and the General Assembly delivered with passage of this transformative measure.
 
This bill stemmed from the excellent work of the School Safety Working Group in 2018, addressing two major challenges of securing our schools and strengthening our students.
 
This proactive approach to combatting violence in our schools focuses on increasing physical security, promoting an increased culture of student connection, and increasing oversight and accountability of school safety efforts. This framework sets a state goal of placing more trained law enforcement officers and school counselors in Kentucky schools, steps that will both harden the targets of our school buildings while better addressing the mental health needs of our youth.
 
A significant point of discussion has been just how new school safety initiatives will be funded. While the exact amount of costs associated with SB 1 will not be known until administrators begin to implement the bill, I am committed to prioritizing increased funding to support the major initiative we just passed. We will craft the new state budget next year, and it is critical that we appropriate enough funding to bring our school safety efforts to fruition. When 2020 comes, we will have a better idea of what kind of funding will be necessary to support the School Safety and Resiliency Act.
 
Also last week, the House passed a measure to protect the unborn against unjust discrimination. The bill, HB 5, would prohibit abortion providers from performing an abortion based on gender, race, national origin or disability. Under the bill’s provisions, anyone who performs or induces an abortion knowing that the mother wants the abortion based, at least in part, on the sex, race, color, national origin or disability of her unborn child would face a felony charge carrying up to five years in prison and revocation of their license to practice in Kentucky. Exceptions would only be made in a medical emergency involving the mother. This measure is a necessary step in ensuring that unborn children have equal protections under the law and are not unjustly discriminated against based on protected classifications.
 
I was also extremely happy to support HB 21, legislation that would allow Family Resource and Youth Service Centers to accept private donations. FRYSCs are among the great stories of public education in Kentucky, as they provide necessary resources for all of our children, but particularly those in need. They are currently funded through the school’s budget, but HB 21 would allow them to accept private donations for operation and maintenance. This measure comes on the heels of an increase in FRYSC funding that the legislature was able to include in last year’s budget.
 
Members of the Kentucky House also voted 93-1 to approve my legislation that would ensure Kentucky consumers are aware of how the meat they are eating was raised. The legislation, HB 311, would prohibit cultured animal meat, which is produced in a lab, from being labeled as meat. Instead, it would bear the appropriate label that informs consumers of how it was created. As a strong advocate for our agriculture community and beef farmers, I was proud to sponsor this legislation and look forward to pushing for its passage in the Senate.
 
With school safety legislation behind us for this session, I am now looking ahead to other potential issues as this session begins to wind down. Please reach out to me with your thoughts and ideas on the critical issues remaining before us, as I would like to represent each of you in Frankfort to the best of my ability.
 
Rep. Michael Lee Meredith represents the 19th House District, which includes Edmonson County and part of Warren County. Contact him with any questions, concerns, or advice. He can be reached through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181, or via e-mail at [email protected]​by Rep. Michael Meredith:

THE BANK OF EDMONSON COUNTY HAS THE FOLLOWING FOR SALE:

2007 CHEVROLET CORVETTE
VIN#: 1G1YY36U575138596
         
Convertible, Leather Seats, Bose Stereo System, Performance Handling Package, Sports Suspension, Keyless Entry, Automatic Transmission, less than 85K miles.

​This vehicle will be sold as is.
$17,500.00

The bank reserves the right to reject any offer that is inadequate.

This vehicle can be seen at the main office located at 109 N. Main St. Brownsville, Ky.

If interested contact Valerie Antle at 270-597-2175.