Madison Doyle, story and photos: Edmonson County Parks and Rec hosted their annual Easter Egg hunt this morning, Saturday, March 30, 2024 at the Highway 70 Ballpark. Cody Stewart, EC Parks and Rec director, said there was an estimated turnout of 350 kids, and there were over 12,000 eggs hidden. In a matter of about five minutes, all 12,000 of those eggs were gone. Stewart said there were prize eggs in each group. Prizes included things such as bubbles, jump ropes, kites, and even scooters and slip n' slides. "We had a great turnout, and it was a great day with beautiful weather," said Stewart. "I want to thank Brownsville Missionary Baptist Church for coming out early this morning and hiding all 12,000 of these eggs." Stewart also noted that all of the eggs were hand filled by ECHS students in Beta Club, JAG, Math club, Science club, FFA, 4-H, Horticulture, SADD, International club, Pep club, HOSA, DECA, Plus-1, Outdoor club, FCA, ECHS Band, Drama club, Literary club, Art club, and Skills USA. "I want to personally thank each of these clubs and students who helped us make this possible, we couldn't have done it without them. I also want to thank the Edmonson County Homemakers for coming out and handing out coloring sheets and sticker tattoos. Also, a big thank you to Pelican's Snoballs for coming out, everyone seemed to really enjoy their snow cones." You can check out some of the kiddos who participated in today's egg hunt in the slideshow below:
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MAMMOTH CAVE, KY –The Sloan’s Crossing Pond trail and picnic area at Mammoth Cave National Park is now open for public use. The area has been closed since October 2023 for a rehabilitation project to the wooden boardwalk that circles the pond. Work included installation of new decking material and the repair of existing overlook and seating areas. The 0.4-mile boardwalk around Sloan’s Pond traverses around the edge of a marshy pond. Wayside exhibits along the walkway interpret the pond's unique environment where wildlife such as turtles, frogs, red-winged blackbirds, and various waterfowl are often viewed. The boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and features an accessible picnic area.
Learn about all the hiking options at Mammoth Cave National Park on the park’s Hiking page. Edmonson Voice Report:
The Edmonson County Conservation District, in partnership with the Kentucky Division of Forestry will hold their annual tree seedling giveaway Saturday, April 13, 2024 from 8:30am-12 noon (or while supplies last) first come, first served. Also, in partnership with Edmonson County 4-H, seedlings will be sent to both Kyrock and South Edmonson Elementary Schools. LOCATION: at the old service station across from the District office, 100 Washington Street, Brownsville. There will be a limited number of redbud, pecan, paw paw, persimmon, pin oak, and white pine seedlings. The pecans, paw paw, and redbud will be limited to four per household. With any trees remaining after 11AM, the limits will be lifted. The district is encouraging everyone to share their tree planting experiences on their Facebook page. For more information call the Edmonson County Conservation District Office at 270-597-2761. Event will be postponed in the event of inclement weather. The district will share any updates on their FB Page. photo: Madison Doyle The following open letter was submitted to the Edmonson Voice by newly inducted Edmonson County Hall of Distinguished Alumni member Coach Keith Madison: Here is what I wanted to say, but didn’t have the presence of mind to say, at the Edmonson County Distinguished Alumni Banquet: “We leave something of ourselves behind when we leave a place, we stay there, even though we go away. And there are things in us that we can find again only by going back there.”-Pascal Mercier There were other things I wanted to say, as well, about the influence coaches like David Webb (Little League) and Kay Don VanMeter (High School) have had on me. I mentioned my parents, grandparents, church and family, but I didn’t not mention my friends and the athletes who paved the way, Lin Meredith, Anthony Browning, Steve Meredith, Stan Alexander, Ricky “Pickle” Vincent, my brother and many others. Also, many gifted teachers and administrators who exercised much compassion and grace. I wanted to tell the story about a group of boys from Brownsville, Steep Hollow and Lindseyville having fun in the old Alexander barn in Steep Hollow. In the large loft in the barn two basketball goals were erected, perhaps 9’ high because of height limitations. Some of the friends remembered include Stan and Carlton Alexander, John Lindsey, Billy Hightower, Tommy Houchin and Richard “Big R” Minton. There were bruises, sprained ankles and many great shots and dunks. We all were inspired by the great Christmas tournament the University of Kentucky used to host, the U.K.I.T. Since the barn was located In Steep Hollow, we had our own Invitational Tournament and the logo painted on the loft floor, the S.H.I...... The memories and the influences from my years in Edmonson County will always be an important part of me. Thanks, again, to Amanda Coates Lich, Melinda Campbell, Jonathan Williams, Johnny Webb, Johnny Pete Vincent, Scottie Woodcock, Jeanne Patton, Jerry Patton and many others for making last night memorable and special. Of course, having my mother, brother, sister and wife there made it even better. Thanks to all! --Keith Madison Are you looking for a unique property that's within city limits, and has a little privacy? Then look no further! This Bedford Stone Cottage is nestled on just over an acre, and hosts a ton of charm. Recently renovated with a new roof, cabinetry, butcher block countertops, and refinished original hardwood floors, you need to view to truly appreciate. A huge family room is attached via a breezeway to the primary residence, and is the perfect place to relax with family and friends; area has it's own recently installed mini split for temp. control. The backyard features a bonfire pit, and private patio area, in addition to tidy landscaping and mature trees. An unfinished basement provides the perfect place for storage. Contact listing agent for your private showing. $239,000
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Madison Doyle, story and photos: Three different ribbon cutting ceremonies were held today at the Mohawk Center in Brownsville, hosted by the Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce. The Hive Hair & Company, Little Dumplins Boutique, and Body & Mind Massage Studio all celebrated the grand opening of their businesses. Ashley White, owner of The Hive Hair & Company, says she has been a hair stylist since 2020. She began this journey in Smiths Grove, and "much sooner than anticipated" found herself home [Brownsville], which she said was ultimately her long term goal. "I am so glad to be back in my community doing what I love, embraced by the people that I have grown up with my entire life!," said White. White says services offered at the Hive Salon include custom color, personalized extensions, and care for the entire family. Sara Hennion, owner of Body & Mind Massage Studio she is beyond excited for the opportunity to have her business here in Brownsville. "All of my family is from here and my main goal from this is to make people here locally feel more comfortable," Hennion said. Hennion said services she offers include but are not limited to Swedish massage techniques, deep tissue massages, and even hot coals. Little Dumplins Boutique is owned by Hannah Dennison. Dennison says the boutique offers "stylish, everyday clothing and accessories for children." She also said they offer holiday wear, custom embroidery, and more.
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Call or text Chris at 270-975-1298. The Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon cutting for the grand opening The Mohawk Center, featuring Little Dumplin's Boutique, The Hive Hair & Company, and Body & Mind Massage.
The Mohawk Center now features Airbnb rentals upstairs and commercial spaces throughout the bottom floor after a recent remodeling. A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at 11am, and open hours for each business will be 12-4pm. Darren Doyle, story and photos: The Spring 2024 Tour for blues/rock giant Joe Bonamassa kicked off Monday night at the Louisville Palace theater in downtown Louisville, KY. The concert was the first of 19 shows throughout the eastern U.S. region that ends in mid-March, just before the Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea Caribbean Cruise. The sold-out show had folks waiting down 4th Street in Louisville on both sides of the theater entrance as patrons shoved their way to the metal detectors and ticket stalls. The Louisville Palace is a stunning venue that gives show-goers an authentic vintage feel and a ceiling dimly lit in dark blue that feels like the sky. The 2,800 seats were full with fans paying close attention to the virtuoso and his incredible band. Of course, with musicians of this caliber, words like "stunning," "incredible," and "amazing" are too often used but it's really difficult to truly describe the level of talent, musicanship, and straight-up entertainment that was on display Monday night in Louisville. Bonamassa opened up the show with cuts from his latest album, "Blues Deluxe, Vol. 2," a nod to the twenty-year anniversary of his first album, "Blues Deluxe." The former was produced by Josh Smith, who is also Joe's accompanying guitarist that blistered concert attendees last night in his own right. The first tune was "Hope You Realize it (Goodbye Again)" written by Bonamassa and Tom Hambridge, and is probably my favorite on the record. It's a funk-shuffle groove with a driving rhythm and bass line. Joe wasted no time getting to the guitar work, playing his custom model '63 Epiphone SG. Throughout the show, he would switch to a sunburst Les Paul, and ES335, his '51 Nocaster (Bludgeon), a Strat, what I first thought to be a Gibson Explorer, but was actually a Hamer, and then a wine red Tele to close out the show. Joe has said all guitars used in shows are from his world renown vintage collection that is like none other. He didn't talk much, but his fingers sure did. Not just his fingers, but all of Bonamassa was somehow able to access every bit of life available out of his guitars and amps. He quipped about his suit and told the audience it was only $49 at Sears and Roebuck from their "Action Suit" line. He was very complimentary of his band throughout the entire night, not just by their flattering introductions, but by constantly pointing to each member after a solo and encouraging the audience to show their appreciation, which they gladly did. His band featured Smith on guitar, Lamar Carter on drums, Calvin Turner on bass, legendary Hall of Fame keyboardist Reese Wynans, and back up singers Jade McCray and Danielle De Andrea. Unfortunately, I did not catch the third singer's name. Bonamassa introduced Wynans after everyone else and instructed the crowd to specifically stand up and applaud him. Wynans has played for just about every big name you can imagine and toured with Stevie Ray Vaughn and Double Trouble. The 76 year-old did not disappoint, playing multiple keyboards at once, on multiple songs. The spinning inside his Leslie cabinet flickered in the lights throughout the night.
In our earlier interview, I asked Joe what would he say to those that might not know his music, and he simply said, "If you know, you know." And to someone who has been touring for 35 years, it was a fairly dumb question. But to your average music fan (standard commercial radio in your vehicle) most would say something like, "I'm not into blues--it's the same thing over and over." To me, what is most impressive about Bonamassa is that although he's known as king in the world of blues, his music and shows are anything but your typical three chord, 12 bar blues. He and his band are constantly throwing unexpected things at the crowd and listener that are always right in place. He routinely would smoke a solo with the band on level 10, then immediately pull the emergency brake and use techniques like he was caring for a baby to make soft, subtle sounds that I'm still unsure of how they were made. He discussed his band in our previous interview and described them as those who "speak all the languages." That they did. Each one shared blistering solos that showcased their individualism and creativity but never broke loose from the locked down band unit. With his massive song catalogue, I was curious as to how his set list would appear but the 12 songs were as good of a mix as anyone could ask for, including his cover of ZZ Top's "Just Got Paid," that morphed into Led Zepplin's "Dazed and Confused." I'm pretty sure the volcanic energy from the band placed stress fractures in the ceiling throughout the theater. Their encore song was "Mountain Time," a Bonamassa original that goes back to the early days of his touring. The performance was flawless and the peak-and-valley dynamics of the song kept it true to its title. At the band's shutting of the door on the final D chord, two hours had somehow passed, and it somehow actually felt like we were on mountain time at the moment. The staff at the Palace was great and I picked up a groovy "Bonamassa Guitars" black mesh cap on the way out. Tickets are available here for future shows that include an upcoming performance at the Ryman during the summer tour later this year. Legislative Update With Rep. Michael Meredith: House Continues to Pass Meaningful Legislation2/16/2024 By Representative Michael Lee Meredith:
Wrapping up yet another week in Frankfort in the 2024 Regular Session, we have officially surpassed the halfway mark. We now have less than 30 legislative working days to conclude our business for the year, and pass even more legislation to make Kentucky even stronger. One of those measures, HB 563, was filed Thursday, and would create a first of its kind framework for funding water infrastructure improvements that many of our communities desperately need. This measure would create two distinct revolving loan funds. The first, the Kentucky Waste Waters Fund, a loan pool modeled after the successful Kentucky Product Development Initiative would target troubled, economically-struggling systems that do not qualify for grants or loans through existing programs. Additionally, HB 563 creates the Emergency Kentucky Waste Waters Fund. Similar to the other fund, the emergency revolving loan fund would provide capital to systems during a state of emergency in order to restore utility service. This legislation would ensure millions in funding for water and waste water infrastructure reaches the state’s most troubled water districts, and I look forward to considering this bill in the weeks to come. Further enhancing our elections: Members of the Elections, Constitutional Amendments, and Intergovernmental Affairs Committee approved HB 53 this week. This measure would revise the election verification process in all 120 counties, establishing a publicly visible hand-counted ballot process to ensure full integrity in our elections. Strengthening our families: Members of the Families and Children Committee considered several incredibly important pieces of legislation in their last meeting starting with HB 105, which establishes the Mentorship for At-Risk Male Students Grant Program, the Responsible Father Initiative Grant Program, and requires the Department of Juvenile Justice and the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to identify children that are involved with both systems of care and provide a report to the General Assembly each year that includes actions taken by both agencies to better serve these children. It also adds promotion of father engagement activities as part of the Kentucky HANDS Program. Next, they considered HB 367, which would prohibit the state from taking certain actions regarding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program(SNAP) including increasing the eligibility standards for participation in the program, granting non-cash, in kind, or other benefits to individuals in the program unless those individuals are eligible for those benefits under a different program, exempting individuals from the gross income and financial resources standards for benefits, applying for, seeking accepting, or renewing any waiver of work requirements for able bodied adults without dependents. It would remove the provisions that allow the Cabinet to waive certain requirements within the SNAP program without obtaining authorization from the General Assembly. Teacher Recruitment and Retention/HB 377: This measure establishes the Teacher Recruitment Student Loan Forgiveness Pilot Program and the Student Teacher Stipend Program. The Teacher Recruitment Student Loan Forgiveness Pilot Program provides that students accepted into an eligible program will be eligible to receive $5,000 per semester, and those who have declared a major in an eligible program will be able to receive up to $2,500 per semester. Students who accept these awards will be required to teach in the state for one year for each semester award accepted. Students accepted into the Student Teacher Stipend Program will be eligible to receive up to a $5,000 stipend during the academic term in which the student is a student teacher. Protecting Students from Abusive Conduct/HB 275: This bill prohibits school districts from signing nondisclosure agreements with faculty accused of abusive conduct toward a student. The measure also instructs schools to investigate all allegations of abusive conduct until a conclusion is reached. Additionally, HB 275 requires school districts to conduct reference checks with past school districts of teaching applicant. Past school districts must disclose all records of abusive conduct of an individual to the districts hiring the new personnel. HB 275 was approved by the House and now awaits consideration in the Senate. As always, I can be reached anytime through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181. You can also contact me via e-mail at Michael.Meredith@lrc.ky.gov and keep track through the Kentucky legislature’s website at legislature.ky.gov. Edmonson Voice Report:
Employees at Peoples Bank recently made a donation to the Edmonson County Senior Pantry in the amount of $9,755. The check was presented last week to Vickie Walker, pantry coordinator. The Edmonson County Senior Pantry provides aid to limited-income seniors, ages 60 and older. Residents can receive canned and dry goods, personal hygiene products, and more from the food pantry located inside of the Brownsville Community Center. Peoples Bank’s donation to help further the organization’s mission was made possible through its "Jeans for Hunger" program where associates can wear jeans to the office on Fridays and Saturdays in exchange for a donation of any amount. During the 2023 fourth quarter, associates collectively donated $48,775 to local food banks and pantries across the company’s footprint. Since Jeans for Hunger began in April 2020, associates have donated a total of $504,021. Kevin Eagan, Chief Marketing Officer of Peoples Bank, stated, “We are honored that our associates prioritize the importance of impacting our communities. They are the backbone of PEBO, and they take care of each other, our clients and our communities. We are very thankful for each and every associate.” For more information on Peoples Bank, visit pebo.com. To receive services from the Edmonson County Senior Pantry, call 270-779-1203. Regional Tournament is Next L-R: Front row: Jax Cook, Josh, Stice, Case Sowders, Back Row: Coach Angie Hughes, Caroline Keown, Gracie Hawkins, Jesse Denham, Madison Smith, Anthony Beach, Lincoln Hughes, Alex Beach, (Not Pictured - Bethany Turner) Edmonson Voice Report:
The Edmonson County 5th grade Academic Team competed in the District Governor’s Cup Competition on Saturday, February 3, 2024. The group earned medals in each category where they competed. Earning awards were: Science - 4th place Josh Stice 2nd place Caroline Keown Social Studies - 4th place Jesse Denham 1st place Madison Smith Language Arts - 3rd place (tie): Bethany Turner, Lincoln Hughes Math - 4th place (tie): Jesse Denham, Case Sowders 3rd place: Lincoln Hughes Arts & Humanities - 4th place: Jax Cook 2nd place: Anthony Beach 1st place: Alex Beach In addition, the Quick Recall Team placed 2nd and the team won 2nd place overall. The team will now move on to compete in the regional tournament on March 23rd. |
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