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.

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.

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. 

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Noel Barton, author of "Watch for the Whirlwinds," will be presenting her second book, "Meryl Jean-- Another Whirlwind" at the Edmonson County Library on Tuesday, July 9, at 3:00pm.  

Barton's daughter-in-law, Karen Treece, is an educator at Edmonson County Middle School.

"My books are not autobiographies, but are based on personal experiences I  had as a child," Barton said in a statement. "I would say they are about  60% fact and 40% fiction. The setting is in the Bootheel of Missouri in the '50s & '60s. My readers love the stories about Meryl Jean Strom growing up in the quiet little town of Muddy Ox.  Meryl brought some 'nevers' with her. She never wanted to be belt-whipped my an alcoholic father again, never wanted to be made fun of because she cast a larger shadow than her peers and never--ever have to wear boy shoes again because of her wide feet. After Grandma told her she could have all the money she made picking and chopping cotton to buy her clothes and put herself through school, she quickly calculated she'd never buy boy shoes again."

Barton also discussed that how Meryl crossed off that 'never' and the other 'nevers' on her list is the heart of the story, but there is much more. She said included in the book is a combination of a murder mystery, a love story, a coming of age, and many moral and spiritual messages as well. 

"It isn't a preachy book but no one can read this story and not know the power of prayer, the Grace of God or the plan of Salvation," she added.

​Barton said she hopes to see a large crowd at the event on Tuesday.
​

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
VFW Post 6937 has been honored with the title “All American”  2018 – 2019 year.  The Post was just one of five All American Posts honored from the Commonwealth, which is the second year in a row for the award. Post Commander Floyd Houston is scheduled to receive the award in person at the Nation VFW Convention in Florida on July 22, 2019.  
​
 According to a statement from local VFW Post 6937, The Veterans of Foreign Wars was established after veterans of the 1898 War with Spain returned to the United States bearing wounds and illnesses (primarily Yellow Fever), as well as the burden of taking care of the widows and orphans of their wartime comrades for which the nation at that time had absolutely no safety net.  They initially organized locally but by 1915 they became a nationwide organization which helped establish a fledgling VA by the time the Doughboys returned from WWI.  Before WWII was concluded, they helped establish the GI Bill and they have been in the forefront of national legislative, as well as practical local efforts to help veterans and their families ever since.
 
"Here in Edmonson County, VFW Post 6937 is most visible to the community in conducting burial honors for veterans, flag training, patriotic speaking and writing contests in the schools, as well as providing honors at significant community events, such as the Memorial Day ceremony in the Courthouse square," said Post Commander Houston in a statement.  "Our Post meets on the third Monday of each month at 6:30 pm at the Edmonson County Library.  If you are an Honorably discharged veteran with a campaign medal from any overseas conflict, please join us."                          

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Edmonson County DAV and Auxiliary has announced an upcoming ceremony that will honor two Edmonson County veterans.

The ceremony is scheduled to be held on the square at the Veterans Memorial Wall at 9am on Saturday, July 13th. Green Street, located north of the square running east and west before the Brownsville bridge, will be dedicated to Corporal James Larry Hightower, who was killed in action in the Vietnam war on October 22, 1966. 

The ceremony will also honor Wingfield native MSgt (Ret) Larry Hawks, who received the Distinguished Service Cross on June 21st in a ceremony at Ft. Bragg, NC.

In case of rain, the ceremony will be held inside the Community Center. Lawn chairs are encouraged.

We wish everyone a safe a happy holiday weekend on this Independence Day. Our office will be closed until Monday, July 8th. 

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
Edmonson County law enforcement officers were treated to a free lunch on Tuesday, July 2nd, at Sportsman's Grill, thanks to St. John's Thrift Store and Pantry.

Barbara Fitzhugh, organization volunteer, said it was a small price to pay in exchange for the services law enforcement provide here in Edmonson County.

"We did this to show our appreciation for all that the officers do for us since they work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year with little thanks," she said. "When the country did law enforcement day, we did not have anything for our people. This was just to say thanks for all they do."

Officers and staff members from the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, Brownsville Police, and KY State Police were represented at the lunch.

"Mrs. Barbara and St. John's have repeatedly shown their support for our office and all of law enforcement," said Sheriff Shane Doyle. "With so many across the country making it difficult for law enforcement officers everywhere, it's a blessing to see this type of support in Edmonson County. We are truly grateful for the lunch provided by St. John's." ​

Edmonson Voice Staff Report:
While attending the Disabled American Veterans Department of Kentucky Commander's Ball and Awards Dinner at Annual Convention in Lexington, Kentucky, Michael Stoyonovich of the Edmonson County DAV Chapter 32 was chosen by the DAV Department of Kentucky State Executive Committee as "Disabled Veteran of the Year" for 2019. 

Michael was presented an engraved plaque and an engraved watch by DAV State Commander, Birchel Baker.
 
“As with any individual award there are so many people to thank for getting you there, I want to thank all the members at DAV Chapter 32 in Brownsville for supporting and nominating me and providing such a great facility in Brownsville for us to meet with veterans needing their VA benefits,” said Stoyonovich "We have met with over 2,000 veterans seeking their benefits in the last four years and VA has provided over $1.5 Million in annual compensation for veterans in Edmonson and surrounding counties due to Chapter 32, Brownsville's service work.”

During the convention, Michael Stoyonovich was also elected to be Junior Vice Commander and placed on the DAV Department of Kentucky, State Executive Committee. He will also be in a position now to be DAV State Commander in the near future. 

​“I was speechless when I was chosen Disabled Veteran of the Year and elected as DAV Department of Kentucky Junior Vice Commander at the same convention, said Stoyonovich. "There are so many to thank, but without the strength from our Lord, Jesus Christ, and the 100% support I have from my beautiful wife, Susan Donoghue, I could not be the veteran's advocate that I strife to be every day.” ​