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(Wednesday May 22, 2013)
McCREARY COUNTY WOMAN JAILED ON FEDERAL INDICTMENT
A McCreary County woman was locked up Monday after her arrest on a federal indictment for drug charges. The McCreary County Record reports that 57 year old Madie S. Parriman was taken into custody by the McCreary County Sheriff’s Department following the May 9^th indictment being returned in US District Court. Parriman was charged with conspiring to distribute oxycodone over a three year period from 2009 to 2012. William Darnell “TJ” Strickland was also named in the indictment as being involvement with the drug conspiracy. The case stems from a joint investigation by the local sheriff’s department, the Lake Cumberland Area Drug Task Force, the federal Drug Enforcement Agency and Kentucky State Police. Parriman was lodged in the Laurel County Detention Center.

McCREARY COUNTY’S OWN ALLIE LEGGETT COMPETING IN MISS USA PAGEANT
In just a few short weeks McCreary County native Allie Leggett will be competing in Las Vegas in the Miss USA Pageant representing Kentucky. Leggett won the title of Miss Kentucky USA back in January and has since been preparing for the journey that will put her in the national competition on June 16^th. She will spend a total of three weeks in Las Vegas for the pageant and all the related activities and has been collecting donations from the community to help cover many of the expenses involved. While Leggett is not permitted to actually ask for contributions, others have been doing a good job of soliciting money on her behalf. Monday evening she appeared at the McCreary County Park for the Truth or Politics program where she was presented a check for $1000 from American Legion Post 115 and several combined checks on behalf of attorneys and judges from McCreary County. That award was presented by Assistant County Attorney Austin Price and the Legion’s award was presented by Post Commander Daniel Ridner. Online votes are actually being taken now through June 15^th with each online visitor able to vote up to ten times per day for their favorite contestant in hopes of getting them into the finals of the Miss USA Pageant. Information on the pageant and voting is available at www.missusa.com.      

TOWN HALL MEETING INCLUDES DISUSSION ON OCCUPATIONAL TAX
County leaders present Saturday for the town hall meeting at the McCreary County Public Library were grilled by some local citizens about the county’s occupational tax and the decision to deposit all of those funds into the General Fund. Magistrate Roger Phillips was asked whether the areas that had been receiving 20% of the tax, such as the park or ambulance service, would still be getting that 20%. In discussion, Judge Executive Doug Stephens and Deputy Judge Andy Powell talked about the proposed budget saying that the way it currently stands, the park would actually get about $150,000 from General Fund, or roughly 15% of occupational tax revenues, while ambulance service allotments went up slightly. They also noted that economic development is getting no funding through the tax in the next year because they have money already in a fund that can sustain them in the upcoming fiscal year. It was noted the reason for moving all tax funds into the General Fund was to free the county up and be able to use the money were it is needed instead of potentially sitting untouched and unusable in a designated fund, which has been the case in the past. Judge Stephens was asked if there are plans to return the tax allotments to the original formula in the future. Stephens said he would love to see the county in shape to get rid of the tax altogether but did not see that in the foreseeable future. He added that Department for Local Government had recommended the change with the tax and that it would likely stay as is.

(Tuesday May 21, 2013)
McCREARY COUNTY STUDENT NAMED ROGERS SCHOLAR FOR 2013 SUMMER
The names of this year’s Rogers Scholars have been announced by the program, which is based at the Center for Rural Development in Somerset. Caitlin King, a student at McCreary Central High School and the daughter of Ronald and Michelle King was selected for the program from McCreary County. Students selected will attend a weeklong session during the summer where they will learn about business, community service, leadership, and about careers in healthcare, engineering and video production. The students, who apply during their sophomore year of high school and attend sessions prior to their junior year, also receive exclusive scholarship opportunities from various colleges and universities. A total of 872 high school students have graduated from the Rogers Scholars program since its inception in 1998 and the value of the scholarship awards earned is more than $7.5 million.

McCREARY COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
Susan Stephens, McCreary County’s Community and Economic Development Director, once again provides an update on activities and projects of her office. This month Stephens discusses grants, business loan programs, new businesses and the use of social media to network. For the full audio update from Stephens, listen to the “Daily Update” reports on WHAY 98.3FM or visit www.mccrearycounty.com. Contact Susan Stephens at 606-376-9711 or susan@mccrearycounty.com.

(Monday May 20, 2013)
SMALL GROUP OF CONCERNED CITIZENS DRIVING TOWN HALL MEETING SERIES
After weeks and even months of hearing concerned citizens ask for more details from county leaders on what their plans for the future are and asking those county leaders to share their ideas while gathering public input in town hall meetings, it appears only a few McCreary County citizens are actually driving that push. Another in the series of town hall meetings was held Saturday at noon at the McCreary County Public Library, scheduled and organized by District 2 Magistrate Roger Phillips. Only about twenty people gathered in the library’s upstairs meeting room for the session, and that included Magistrates Rogers Phillips and Stan Cox, along with Judge Executive Doug Stephens and Deputy Judge Andy Powell, EMS director Jimmy Barnett and Solid Waste Coordinator Linda Babb. When you add members of the media in attendance, the number of actual concerned citizens showing up was again nearly outnumbered by county officials and media covering the meeting. A similar outcome was seen last month when District 3 Magistrate Jason Mann hosted his town hall meeting in Stearns.

Roger Phillips opened the session by telling a little about himself and why he initially ran for magistrate. He also discussed the four major issues that faced the county at the time of his election in 2002. Those included getting water to all citizens, being able to house female inmates at the local jail, the lack of jobs locally and the lack of recreational opportunities including a park. Phillips said he feels progress has been made in two of those areas with the establishment of a county park, which he said still needs work and further development, and the extension of water lines to about 97% of the county’s households. One citizen question that point saying that the water district received a grant for the Indian Knob water project in 1997 but that there is still no water in that area. Phillips, and water district board member Maynard New who was in attendance, directed the citizen to speak to Steve Owens at the water office about specific projects, but noted that many times, even if funding is received, the water district is unable to run water to certain homes because of distances between homes and the cost to run lines to a single residence or property.

JAIL’S CLOSING DISCUSSED AT TOWN HALL, ALONG WITH JOBS AND GARBAGE
Magistrate Phillips discussed the local jail’s closing by saying it was essentially out of the fiscal court’s hands when they were directed by the state to close the facility. Discussion of the matter led to a conclusion by those in attendance at the town hall meeting that the local jail will not open under the current administration, meaning Jailer Tony Ball, and that the state would likely not approve reopening the jail in its current state, that it would cost too much to bring it up to code at the existing building and that the state would not approve constructing a new jail, even if the county had the money to build one.

Finally, Phillips admitted little progress has been made in terms of creating jobs and improving the local economy while he has been in office. He said that under the previous administrations, court members were advised they needed an industrial authority, an economic development director and a spec building to attract industry. He said in hind sight that was handled wrong and did not accomplish what county leaders had hoped. He added that it is hard for the county to do much about job creation other than providing for the infrastructure and quality of life improvements that may attract business to an area. A citizen asked about rumors that a company was looking at reopening the Justus Mine operation in the county. Deputy Judge Andy Powell said that the judge’s office had been approached by a company but they wanted the county to find $7 million to pay for the work needed to reopen the mine. County leaders, upon advice from other officials including Congressman Hal Rogers’ office, opted not to pursue that venture feeling it would end up as a loss of $7 million especially considering that many mines are closing across the region at present.

Citizen Vicki Kidd called on county leaders to fully develop a plan for the future and start working in that direction. She said the county seems to be “putting out fires” on a monthly basis, meaning the county does what it has to in order to simply pay its bills. She wanted a long range, 20 year plan and said if the plan is to target tourism as the county’s future for economic growth then full effort needs to be put into that. Kidd said whether the plan is tourism or something else, county leaders need to push hard to move in that direction. Other issues discussed Saturday included solid waste and whether garbage collection should be mandated with penalties for noncompliance, law enforcement coverage, and the need for more community and citizen involvement.

(Friday May 17, 2013)
BY THE NUMBERS: A CLOSER LOOK AT McCREARY COUNTY’S BUDGET
This week the McCreary County Fiscal Court approved the first reading of the proposed 2013-2014 budget for all county government operations. Of course, that means very little considering Deputy Judge Executive Andy Powell said himself that the hard work is still ahead in terms of cutting and making the tough decisions before the second and final reading next month. As it stands now, the budget is a bit leaner compared to one the county is working off now for the 2012-2013 fiscal year. In the General Fund the total from the current year was listed at $2,791,741 while the proposed fund for next year is $2,699,292, a reduction of more than $92,000. The Road Fund is listed at about $20,000 less than the current year and the Jail Fund was dropped from more than $820,000 this year to a proposed $651,100 for the new year. If realized that would be a reduction of more than $150,000 for the year. The solid waste fund actually shows an increase for the new year of about $5,000 but those funds are based mainly on solid waste franchise fees and grants from the state. Most other funds are also set to see reductions for the upcoming year and the total budget for 2013-2014 is proposed at $7,654,423, down from the current year’s budget of $8,314,939. Again, county leaders still have to submit that budget to the state for approval and will still need to make revisions and likely cuts before final passage in June. The new budget will go into effect July 1^st.

McCREARY COUNTY GOVERNMENT’S DEBT (LIABILITIES) EXAMINED IN DETAIL
When looking at the county budget, you also have to consider the county’s debts, also referred to as its “liabilities”. As of the end of the current fiscal year on June 30^th, McCreary County will owe just over $31,000 on the existing jail building, a debt still being paid despite the facility being closed. The jail building was financed in 1986 for a period of 28 years meaning the debt will be paid off in 2014. The county also faces debt from a loan secured to pay off its obligation on the Ten Commandments lawsuit with a balance of about $194,000 remaining and the final payment to be made in December 2016. That is a debt that was initially being paid using donations from individuals, churches and organizations but as those contributions have dried up the county has been forced to dip into its General Fund for those quarterly payments. The county also faces debt from courthouse construction and renovations. In 1999 more than $8 million in debt was taken on for the full renovation and additions to the courthouse. Currently, almost $4 million is still owed on the project which will not be paid off until the year 2020, however those payments are made by the Administrative Office of the Courts directly to the bond holder and not paid by the county. The courthouse renovations to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act also led to $641,000 in debt in 2001 with the balance currently at $315,000 and the final payment in 2021. Approximately $230,000 is also owed currently by the county for financing of asphalt and Mack trucks along with ambulances. For more on budgets and finances of county government you can visit www.mccrearycounty.com and click on “Budget & Finances”.

ASTRONOMY PROGRAMS AT BANDY CREEK IN THE BIG SOUTH FORK
The Bandy Creek Visitor Center, on the Tennessee side of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, will be hosting Astronomy programs this Saturday May 18^th. First, from 3:00-4:00pm a telescope with sun filter will be available to allow for solar viewing. At 9:00pm that evening Paul Lewis from the University of Tennessee will be describing objects in the night sky. Both programs will be free and open to the public. In the event of rain, programs will be moved indoors. For more information or directions call the Bandy Creek Visitor Center at 423-286-7275 or visit the Big South Fork website at www.nps.gov/biso.

(Thursday May 16, 2013)
McCREARY COUNTY FISCAL COURT DISCUSSES SOLID WASTE ISSUES
Meeting in regular session Tuesday, the McCreary County Fiscal Court had a wide range of issues on its agenda ranging from the county budget and financial matters to jail inmate housing, roads, personnel and solid waste.

The solid waste issue was actually raised during the citizen participation portion of the meeting when citizen Harvey Meadows asked the court why it seemed so hard to enforce the county ordinance requiring participation in garbage disposal service. All county leaders seemed in agreement that county ordinance does require citizens to properly dispose of their trash and there are only two approved methods to do so, including being on garbage collection service or delivering garbage to the transfer station. Magistrate Jason Mann echoed comments he had made at a recent solid waste board meeting that the only way to get everyone on garbage service would be to place the bill on another utility bill, such as water or even property tax bills. County leaders noted this is not an option at this time due to ongoing legal cases involving other counties who have done just that. Magistrate Roger Phillips said he did not agree with actions by Solid Waste Coordinator Linda Babb in trying to force the issue with residents, saying if you tell someone they have to do something they are actually less likely to comply. Babb has been sending letters and making contact with local residents who have previously been on garbage service but are not currently. The McCreary County 109 Solid Waste Board is currently reviewing the county’s ordinance on the issue to determine if any recommendations for changes need to be made back to the county.

McCREARY APPROVES CONTRACT FOR INMATE HOUSING AT WAYNE COUNTY
Fiscal Court also voted Tuesday to approve a contract with the Wayne County Detention Center for the housing of local jail inmates. Judge Executive Doug Stephens said the county was not ending its contract with Laurel County, but that he wants to have agreements with as many different jails as possible to ensure housing of inmates. Stephens said some benefits exist from using Wayne County including shorter travel time for inmate transports, a savings of 50 cents per day per inmate on housing costs and Wayne County’s willingness to allow McCreary County to use some inmates for work release details. In the past inmates have been used locally at the county park and for recycling and litter abatement efforts. Judge Stephens said he also hopes to negotiate with Whitley County for inmate housing in the future.

McCREARY FISCAL COURT DEALS WITH ISSUES FROM ROADS TO INSURANCE
Other actions taken this week by the McCreary County Fiscal Court included closing to the public and removing from the county road inventory the David Kidd Road at the request of the sole land owner involved; appointing Jerry Myers as the new Chief of the Search and Rescue Squad; and approving a contract with University of Kentucky to continue annual support of the local extension service at a cost to the county of $39,312. The county also approved its health insurance plan for employees for the upcoming fiscal year. The major changes include higher deductibles for employees, but that cost is being offset by an increase in the amount employees receive on a card that can be used toward medical expenses. In addition, the county put a cap of $2500 on the amount employees can have deducted from their pay throughout the year to help toward excess medical bills. That does not involve any money out of the county budget as it comes directly out of an employees’ pay if they select that option.

(Wednesday May 15, 2013)
McCREARY COUNTY FISCAL COURT TAKES FIRST STEP TOWARD NEW BUDGET
The fiscal year will change as of July 1^st and that means a new budget must be approved and in place by then for McCreary County. Fiscal Court took the first step in that direction Tuesday evening with the first reading approval of the Fiscal Year 2013-2014 budget. According to Deputy Judge Executive Andy Powell, revenues for the county are down between 5%-7% while expenses continue to rise. He noted that the first reading puts the budget at nearly the same levels as previous years but that cuts and tough decisions will likely have to be made before the second reading and final passage comes sometime next month. Powell said that there are currently no staff or service cuts included but that seemed to hint that those actions could be on the table as the county considers the final approval of the budget. Powell also said that while he does necessarily mean raising taxes, the county will have to look at ways in the future to be creative about coming up with additional revenue sources.

We will have more on the regular May session of the McCreary County Fiscal Court, held Tuesday evening, on Thursday’s “Daily Update” report. 

TREASURE FINDERS EVENT IS COMING TO McCREARY COUNTY
Did you know that each year the Kentucky Treasurer’s Office returns millions of dollars in unclaimed property to the state’s residents? According to Todd Hollenbach, Kentucky’s Treasurer, since 2008 a total of $76 million in unclaimed property has been returned to Kentucky residents, thanks in large part to the “Treasure Finders” program. He says that currently about $13 million in unclaimed properties and money await the rightful owners. “Treasure Finders” events are being held throughout the state in each community to allow citizens a chance to get help in searching for unclaimed property and assistance with how to claim any property that may be awaiting them. Such an event has been scheduled in McCreary County as a joint effort of the Kentucky Treasurer’s Office, McCreary County Judge Executive and McCreary County Public Library. The event will be this Thursday May 16^th from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the library’s upstairs community room. Judge Executive Doug Stephens noted during Tuesday’s Fiscal Court meeting that more than $394,000 is owed to citizens of McCreary County through unclaimed properties. Anyone interested in searching for unclaimed property that may belong to them, or willing to help volunteer for the event to help locate those individuals, is encouraged to stop by and learn more. You can also find out more about the program by visiting www.kytreasury.com or www.missingmoney.com or by calling the Judge’s Office at (606)376-2413.

SOMERSET EYE DOCTOR FACING LAWSUIT OVER FRAUD ALLEGATIONS
The US Attorney’s Office has reportedly filed a lawsuit against Dr. Philip Robinson and Associates in Eyecare of Somerset for alleged Medicaid and Medicare fraud. The lawsuit states that Robinson and the business sought and received payments from the programs for unnecessary procedures and some services never rendered. For example, the suit says that Robinson claimed to have visited nursing homes in the Somerset area where he says he treated more than 100 patients in a single day. That is something the lawsuits claims would be impossible.

(Tuesday May 14, 2013)
LAUREL COUNTY MAN CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED JUVENILE ABDUCTION
A Laurel County man is facing charges after he was accused of trying to abduct a 15 year old girl from her home Friday. Police say Carl Miller, age 42, was arrested on a public intoxication charge Friday that landed him in jail at the Laurel County Detention Center. Upon investigation, officers added charges related to his alleged encounter with a 15 year old girl. Miller is accused of making sexual comments to the girl, offering her drugs and trying to grab her arm in an attempt to take her with him. Miller has denied the claims but remains behind bars in Laurel County as the investigation continues.

DUI CHARGES FILED AGAINST LAUREL COUNTY MAN ON A TRACTOR
An East Bernstadt man has been charged with driving under the influence on a tractor. Police say it happened last Wednesday when 27 year old Kyle Robinson is accused of operating a tractor just south of London where officers stopped him and made the arrest. Not only do they say he was under the influence but that he was also in possession of several illegal substances. The man was lodged in the Laurel County Detention Center facing charges. 

(Monday May 13, 2013)
US FOREST SERVICE ISSUES SAFETY ORDERS, INCLUDING TRAIL CLOSURE
Officials with the Daniel Boone National Forest have issued two alerts concerning visitor safety in the forest, which includes the portion in McCreary County. First, officials say visitors need to be aware of a current order for campers in developed sites to store food, garbage and other odorous items that could attract bears in bear resistant containers or inside their vehicles or enclosed trailers. Backcountry campers must suspend food and other odorous items at least 10 feet off the ground and four feet away from any tree or pole. All food leftovers and trash must be properly disposed of and remember that burning or burying of food trash is prohibited. Keep in mind that odorous items that may attract bears include food, garbage, soap, toothpaste and other scented items. Also, in Kentucky it is illegal to feed bears, either intentionally or unintentionally, and the public is asked to report nuisance bears by calling 1-800-25-ALERT.

The Forest Service has also issued an order closing the Sellers Ridge Trail #6296 in the Stearns District to motorized use. The 2.5 mile trailer was previously designated for off highway vehicles less than 50 inches wide but due to erosion and the narrowing of portions of that trail it is now open only to hikers.       

McCREARY COUNTY FISCAL COURT TO TACKLE BUDGET AT MAY SESSION
The McCreary County Fiscal Court will meet for their regular May session this Tuesday May 14^th at 5:00pm in the upstairs fiscal court meeting room of the McCreary County Courthouse. One major item on this month’s agenda will be the county’s multi-million dollar budget for the upcoming fiscal year beginning July 1^st. It is no secret that the county has been struggling in recent months to balance its budget and even to pay monthly bills and it is expected all of that will be taken into consideration when the court decides what to fund and what to cut in the upcoming year. Few details have been released about the new budget by county officials but the first reading is expected during Tuesday’s meeting. The court must then submit its budget to Frankfort for their nod of approval before having the second and final reading before the end of June.

MAGISTRATE ROGER PHILLIPS (McCREARY 2^ND) SCHEDULES TOWN HALL MEETING
The second in a series of town hall style meetings held by local officials will be this coming Saturday May 18^th at 12noon at the McCreary County Public Library. Second district Magistrate Roger Phillips set the date, time and location after seeking input from the public, including the outspoken “Advance McCreary” group. Magistrate Jason Mann (3^rd District) held a town hall meeting last month in Stearns with low turnout numbers and it is hoped by county officials that a Saturday meeting may draw better attendance. All county citizens, especially those in Roger Phillips’ district, are encouraged to attend, hear what county government is doing, and ask questions.

McCREARY MAGISTRATES TO APPEAR ON TRUTH OR POLITICS PROGRAM
All four McCreary County Magistrates have been invited to appear on the weekly current issues program “Truth or Politics” this evening. The show is held in front of a live audience at the McCreary County Park/Senior Citizens’ Center just north of Whitley City and is also broadcast live on WHAY 98.3FM. Host and moderator Darlene Price says she has extended an invitation to magistrates in all four of McCreary County’s districts to be guests on tonight’s program at 6:00pm to discuss their role in county government, current projects and their vision for the future of the county. This is the next in a series of local government programs featured with previous shows focusing on the Judge Executive, County Clerk and Economic Development Director. Next Monday’s program (May 20^th) will feature State Representative Ken Upchurch and State Senator Sara Beth Gregory as guests, along with Miss Kentucky USA, Allie Leggett, who is a native of McCreary County and is preparing for the Miss USA pageant this summer. Those interested can attend as audience members Monday evenings at 6:00pm at the McCreary County Senior Citizens’ Center at the county park, listen to the programs live on 98.3FM or visit www.truthorpolitics.info.

(Friday May 10, 2013)
HIGHLAND COMMUNICATIONS ISSUES E-MAIL SCAM ALERT
A warning has been issued by Highland Communications about an e-mail scam that is circulating. According to the alert issued Wednesday, an e-mail is being sent out with the subject line “Dear highland.net subscriber.” This is a scam according to Highland and they ask that anyone receiving this e-mail not respond to the message and delete the e-mail immediately. Highland Communications reminds that they will never make an unsolicited request for personal or account information.  

PETITION FOR COUNTYWIDE ALCOHOL SALES CIRCULATED IN PULASKI
Burnside and Somerset have already passed legalized alcohol sales but some in Pulaski County feel the county needs to take the next step. That step, according to some, is countywide alcohol sales that will help support businesses outside those city limits. Jess Lockard, a Bronston resident, has been circulating petitions in hopes of getting the issue on the ballot for a special election. Somerset’s Commonwealth Journal reports that Lockard is now in the process of gathering the signed petitions from at least forty different locations around Pulaski County and that he estimates having at least 12,000 signatures in total. Only 6,554 would be required to have the measure put up for vote based on the numbers of voters that came out for the last general election. As with any petition drive, some of the signatures could be thrown out as not valid but Lockard says he believes a vast majority are legitimate. The petition states “we request and demand an election be set to legalize the sale of alcohol for a unified Pulaski County…”. If the required number of signatures can be verified once submitted, a special election would have to be scheduled by the Pulaski County Judge Executive and would be a countywide vote.

McCREARY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ACCEPTING SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS
The McCreary County Chamber of Commerce has announced they are currently accepting applications for a scholarship award to be presented to a local student to help them further their education. Requirements for the application include submitting a 300 word or less essay, recommendations from a teacher and one other non-family member, a brief bio including experience with school, club or community involvement and having at least a 2.5 GPA. Applications can be submitted by mail to the McCreary County Chamber of Commerce PO Box 548, Whitley City, KY 42653 or by e-mail to wendy@crabtreewilson.com. The application deadline is next Friday May 17^th with the top three applicants to be interviewed the following week. For more information on the scholarship award visit the Chamber’s website at www.mccrearychamber.com.

(Thursday May 9, 2013)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON McCREARY COUNTY SCHOOL THREAT
As we reported yesterday, 50 year old James Paulson, a technology department employee of the McCreary County School District, was arrested Tuesday evening by Kentucky State Police, charged with terroristic threatening 2^nd degree for allegedly making verbal threats against local School Superintendent Donnie Wright. Additional information that surfaced yesterday also points to alleged threats Paulson made about blowing up a local school and comments he made to witnesses about knowing how to make pressure cooker type bombs. Paulson spoke to Lexington news sources from the Laurel County Detention Center Wednesday, after a judge denied him bond stating he was “a danger to the public”. Paulson said that he is no threat to anyone and does not even own a gun, but did admit to losing his temper, reportedly over news that some school district employees would be losing their jobs amid budget cuts. Meanwhile, WLEX TV from Lexington is reporting on James Paulson past criminal history which dates back to 2005 including charges of endangering the welfare of a minor and even assault on a minor. In both cases Paulson entered a guilty to plea to the reduced charge of disorderly conduct. School officials maintain there was never any immediate danger to students and a search of Paulson’s Stearns home turned up no evidence of any explosive devices. The investigation is continuing by Kentucky State Police with Paulson behind bars in Laurel County with no bond.  

LAUREL COUNTY COUPLE CHARGED WITH 13 YEAR OLD’S RAPE
The alleged rape of a 13 year old mildly mentally challenged girl several months ago has led to charges being filed against a Laurel County couple. The bizarre case began with the alleged rape of the girl by 45 year old Frank Brown and the pregnancy that reportedly resulted. 35 year old Joyce Blanton, the man’s girlfriend and relative of the minor, is accused of trying to cover up that pregnancy, not seeking prenatal care for the girl, and planning to claim she was the birth mother once the baby was born. Once investigators learned of the situation through an anonymous tip to social services, an investigation led to charges against both Brown and Blanton for first degree rape. The Laurel County Sheriff’s Department is leading the investigation. Both are lodged in the Laurel County Detention Center.

HIGHLAND TELEPHONE AWARDS ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS
Highland Telephone Cooperative announced this week the winners of their annual scholarship awards throughout their service area. In McCreary County Cameron Kidd and Trent Harrison received awards in the “376” exchange while Brittany King was the winner in the “354” exchange. All are students at McCreary Central High School. Each year Highland Telephone invites area high school seniors to apply for the $1000 scholarships to assist them with furthering their education after high school. In all, eleven scholarships were awarded for a total $11,000 in the HTC service area including McCreary, Scott, Morgan, Anderson and Campbell Counties.

(Wednesday May 8, 2013)
McCREARY COUNTY SCHOOL EMPLOYEE CHARGED WITH MAKING THREATS
Parents and staff of the McCreary County School District may have been alarmed Tuesday evening as they received automated calls from the school system informing them of an ongoing investigation into threats allegedly made against the school district. While little information was released in that call or by officials last night, we have confirmed that 50 year old James Paulson of Stearns, who is in an employee of the local school system, was arrested and booked Tuesday by Kentucky State Police for terroristic threatening 2^nd degree. Paulson was lodged in the Laurel County Correctional Center with no bond allowed. Kentucky State Police are continuing the investigation while school officials say there is no immediate danger to students or staff and school will operate on a regular schedule. 

NEXT IN SERIES OF TOWN HALL MEETINGS SCHEDULED IN McCREARY COUNTY
The next in a series of public town hall style meetings in McCreary County has been scheduled by District 2 Magistrate Roger Phillips. The session will get underway at 12noon Saturday May 18^th at the McCreary County Public Library in downtown Whitley City. All citizens of Phillips’ district, and McCreary County, are invited and encouraged to attend, learn what county government is working on and ask questions. For more on the activities of county government, including upcoming meeting schedules and department updates, visit the official county website at www.mccrearycounty.com.

McCREARY COUNTY TAX BRINGS IN MORE THAN $160,000
McCreary County officials have released the totals for the occupational tax for the month of April with more than $160,000 collected last month. The exact total came in at $162,783.91 which is up significantly from just over $108,000 collected during April 2012. After $3,192.10 were deducted for administrative expenses including the tax administrator’s salary, benefits and the cost of running that office a total of $159,606.29 was left to be deposited into the county’s General Fund. The monthly tax summary reports are posted online at www.mccrearycounty.com or by going directly to tax.mccrearycounty.com.   

SOUTH KY RECC ANNOUNCES NAMES OF NEWLY ELECTED DIRECTORS
The South Kentucky RECC Board of Directors will have four new names and faces serving as of its June regular meeting. The names of the new directors recently elected have been released with The McCreary County Record reporting that Boris Haynes was selected to serve District 6, representing McCreary County. Other local candidates who had sought to serve on the board were Braxton King and Vernon Gilreath. Haynes will join new directors Cathy Crew Epperson, Greg Redmon and Greg Beard in serving on the board with the existing members. The directors will be officially seated at the June 13^th board meeting. All RECC members were mailed ballots in early April with a deadline of April 24^th to submit their votes. About 25” of eligible RECC members voted in the election.

(Tuesday May 7, 2013)
WAYNE COUNTY MAN KILLED IN ATV ACCIDENT THURSDAY
A Wayne County man was killed Thursday afternoon in an all terrain vehicle (ATV) accident according to authorities. 65 year old Alvin Brown was reportedly riding the ATV in the Canada Creek Road area of Wayne County when he went off the roadway for some reason and flipped, causing the ATV to overturn and land on top of him. Brown suffered head injuries, including a skull fracture, according to information released by the Wayne County Coroner’s Office.

McCREARY COUNTY SOLID WASTE COORDINATOR ISSUES “TRASH TALK” UPDATE
McCreary County Solid Waste Coordinator Linda Babb has issued her latest installment of the monthly “Let’s Talk Trash” update, which will appear each month in local newspapers, on the official county website at www.mccrearycounty.com and can also be heard here on WHAY 98.3FM. During this month’s report, Babb discusses the April spring cleanup and gives numbers to back up how busy the month was in terms of cleanup efforts, tire recycling and bulk item drop off. To listen to the full audio update visit the county website or listen to WHAY’s “Daily Update” report Tuesday at 7am, 12noon or 5pm.

McCREARY COUNTY’S 21^ST ANNUAL HEALTH FAIR SLATED FOR MAY 18^TH
For the twenty-first consecutive year, the McCreary County Health Fair will be held this spring allowing local residents to take advantage of many free and low cost health screenings and services. This year’s health fair will be held Saturday May 18^th at the McCreary County Park/Senior Citizens Center on Highway 27 just north of Whitley City. Lab testing will offered at reduced rates while many services and educational information will be provided free of charge. The 21^st annual McCreary County Health Fair will be held from 8:00am-12noon on Saturday May 18^th and is sponsored by the McCreary Christian Care Center with other health care partners. For additional information call the center at 376-8742.

(Monday May 6, 2013)
SOMERSET CRASH CLAIMS ONE LIFE, INJURES THREE OTHERS
Saturday morning turned tragic in Somerset when a two car crash on US Highway 27 claimed one life and injured three others. Authorities say it appears a car driven by Larhonda Thacket pulled into the path of an oncoming Jeep driven by Lacey Denny causing the collision. One of Thacket’s passengers, 58 year old Mary Wells, was airlifted from the scene to UK Hospital in Lexington where she was later pronounced dead. Meanwhile, both drivers and another passenger were all injured and transported to the hospital for treatment. The crash remains under investigation.   

McCREARY COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT REPORTS BUSY APRIL
The McCreary County Sheriff’s Department has issued its activity report for the month of April. During the thirty day period the department reported serving 38 civil summons along with 6 criminal summons, 5 emergency protective orders and 35 arrest warrants. In addition, 123 vehicle inspections were completed by department staff last month. The sheriff’s department reminds local citizens that while budget cuts forced the discontinuation of the telephone tip line, tips of drug activity or criminal behavior can still be submitted through the sheriff’s department website at www.mccrearysheriff.com or by calling the sheriff’s office during regular business hours.

MCCREARY COUNTY GEARING UP FOR ANNUAL RELAY FOR LIFE EVENT
Each year, McCreary County citizens, businesses and organizations join to raise thousands of dollars for the American Cancer Society through Relay for Life events and activities. This year’s main event, the Relay for Life, will be held starting at 6:00pm Friday May 31^st and lasting through the night on the track and football field at McCreary Central High School. In addition to the actually Relay for Life, local resident and radio personality Larry “Lucky Dog” Davis is again planning for the annual Relay for Life Elvis Show with all proceeds going for the cause. This year’s show will again feature Davis singing Elvis songs backed by the group Neon Country, along with MC and show opener Dr. Jerry Burgess. The Elvis Show will be held Sunday May 26^th, Memorial Day Weekend, starting at 3:00pm at the auditorium of McCreary Central High School. Admission will be $5.00 and concessions will be sold with all money going to the local Relay for Life. For more information in getting involved with local Relay for Life efforts you can contact Heather Rogers, this area’s community representative for the American Cancer Society, at 606-678-0203 or e-mail heather.rogers@cancer.org.

(Friday May 3, 2013)
APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED FOR EMPLOYMENT AT SCOTT COUNTY HOSPITAL
After a year in the dark Scott County officials are hopeful that the hospital serving that county and surrounding communities will reopen in the next few months. In fact, Pioneer Health Services, the company working to reopen the facility in Oneida, is currently taking applications online from individuals interested in working at the hospital. While the application can be downloaded from the company’s website at www.phscorporate.com it must be completed and returned by mail. Those who do not have internet access can reportedly also obtain printed applications at the Scott County Mayor’s office at 2845 Baker Highway in Huntsville. Completed applications should be mailed to Roy Day, Corporate Human Resources Director, Pioneer Health Services, PO Box 1100, 110 Pioneer Way, Magee, MS 39111. No firm date for the Scott County Hospital’s reopening has been set.

SCHOOLS ALREADY OPTING TO RAISE DROPOUT AGE, COLLECT GRANT MONEY
A new law passed this year in Kentucky has not even taken effect yet but school districts are already starting to line up to comply. Of course, a $10,000 grant incentive is helping those school districts make their decision on whether to raise the dropout age from the current 16 to age 18. In eastern Kentucky, the Russell Independent School District has even scheduled a midnight meeting on the first day the law is in effect, June 25^th, so they can be one of the first districts to comply with the law. To push school districts to consider the move the Kentucky Department of Education is offering a $10,000 grant to the first 57 school districts that raise the dropout age. Under the new law, if at least 55% of the school districts in the state opt to raise the dropout age it will go into effect for all districts statewide within four years.

KENTUCKY ELECTION OFFICIALS LOOKING AT ADDITION OF “EARLY VOTING”
While Kentucky does provide for absentee voting, allowing voters to vote early in elections if they will be out of town or otherwise unable to go to the polls on election day, the state does not offer regular “early voting” as is offered in many other states. Early voting allows registered voters to cast ballots before election day regardless of whether they will be out of town or have other acceptable reasons for not going to the polls. Kentucky Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes is reportedly looking at whether adding an early voting option would increase voter turnout or make voting easier for Kentuckians. Grimes is seeking public input on the proposal and says she will make legislative or regulatory recommendations based in part on that public input.

(Thursday May 2, 2013)
PULASKI COUNTY MAN KILLED WHEN HIT BY TRAIN
Authorities in Pulaski County say a man in his late 20s was killed Tuesday evening when he was struck by a train near the West Columbia Street crossing. It happened at about 8:00pm when a Norfolk Southern train struck the man whose identity was not being released at last report pending notification of his family. Foul play is not suspected but the accident remains under investigation. 

McCREARY COUNTY’S UNEMPLOYMENT FIGURES SHOW LITTLE CHANGE
The latest unemployment figures released by state officials show very little change in McCreary County’s jobless numbers during the first three months of this year. In fact, the county started 2013 with a 14.3% jobless rate, which rose slightly to 14.5% in February and then leveled off again at 14.3% for March. McCreary County is still listed as having one of the highest jobless rates in Kentucky although several counties land lower on the list including Magoffin County, which had the state’s highest rate at 18.3%, followed by Leslie, Harlan, Letcher, Knott, Bell, Jackson, Menifee, Fulton and then McCreary Counties. The lowest unemployment rates in Kentucky were recorded in Woodford County at 6.1%, followed by Oldham, Fayette, Davies, Franklin, and Madison Counties, all below 7%. Unemployment rates are estimates based on the number of active job seekers within a four week period and are compiled and released by the Kentucky Office of Employment and Training, an agency of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet.

McCREARY COUNTY HEALTH SURVEY PARTICIPANTS SOUGHT
The McCreary County Health Department is encouraging all local residents to help complete an ongoing survey of health conditions and the availability of care and resources in our community. The survey will help local and regional health officials compile data on the most pressing health issues facing this area and form a plan to deal with those issues. You can complete the survey in just a couple of minutes and can do so online by going to www.surveymonkey.com/s/mccrearycountyhealthsurvey or can obtain a printed survey to complete at the McCreary County Health Department or at the McCreary County Extension Service. You do not have to provide your name or other person information for this survey. The deadline to complete the survey is May 22^nd.

(Wednesday May 1, 2013)
McCREARY COUNTY PREPARES TO WELCOME ATV RIDERS TO NEW RECREATION AREA
People in McCreary County have been talking for several years about the need for more all terrain vehicle (ATV) trails for locals to ride, as well as the for the potential draw to tourists. This weekend a major step in that direction will be taken as the new Skullbone ATV Recreation area officially opens in western McCreary County. The Shook family owns the land where more than fifty miles of trail are already available for riding and more are on the way, according to McCreary County Tourism Director Tara Chaney. Talks between county leaders and the Shooks continued for months before an announcement was made last year that the recreation area would soon be opening. A sneak preview weekend was held last fall, mainly for local ATV riders, to gather input on what was needed to make the area and the project a success. Now, this weekend marks the official grand opening including rides, live music, concessions, primitive camping on site and a mud bog Saturday at 11:00am followed at 2:00pm by a hill climb. For more details on the schedule of activities, the recreation area or directions call 376-5659 or call the McCreary County Tourism Office at 376-3008.

IS McCREARY COUNTY READY FOR MORE ACTION ON GARBAGE ISSUE?
The question of how to deal with garbage and solid waste issues in McCreary County has been a debate that has been ongoing for years, even decades, but is it time to push the issue more? That is one item that was discussed Monday evening when the McCreary County 109 Solid Waste board met for their regular monthly session. Members discussed ways to increase participation in garbage collection service including dealing with the issue of rental properties in the county. Currently, while county ordinance requires participation in proper garbage disposal service, enforcement can prove difficult especially when it comes to properties that are rented out and it is unclear whether the property owner or the renter should be responsible for being on garbage collection. The solid waste board voted to begin the process of reviewing the county ordinance for any recommendations that can be made back to fiscal court on the issue. The board also discussed other potential ways to increase participation including some ideas that have been floated for some time like putting the garbage bill on other utility bills, like the water bill, or on property taxes. Both could also prove difficult especially given legal challenges to such measures in other counties in Kentucky which are still working their way through the court system. Magistrate Jason Mann, who serves the county’s third district and is also a member of the 109 board, said he felt the only way the county would ever see a major increase in participation would be to put the bill on another bill.

McCreary County Solid Waste Coordinator Linda Babb is also currently working to identify and contact county residents who are not on garbage service to determine why they dropped service or have not signed up. More is also being done to prosecute individuals found to be dumping and littering in the county.

Discussions during Monday’s sold waste board meeting also revolved around the recent cleanup efforts, both with roadside litter pickups and the free bulk item drop off offered to county residents. Linda Babb noted that more than 200 volunteers took part in last Saturday’s Highway 27 cleanup with more than 200 bags of trash collected from that one day event. Non-profit groups are also currently cleaning up sections of roadway in the county as fundraisers, being paid $50 per mile using Litter Abatement grant funds received by the county from the state.

(Tuesday April 30, 2013)
CRASHES LEAD TO BUSY SUNDAY AFTERNOON ON INTERSTATE 75
Authorities and cleanup crews were busy Sunday afternoon dealing with crashes along Interstate 75 in Whitley and Rockcastle Counties. Police say a section of I-75 was shut down for at least an hour at about 4:00pm Sunday near exit 25 in Corbin when a four vehicle crash occurred. Three adults and a juvenile were injured and had to be treated from the accident with at least two people airlifted for treatment. A little further north, in Rockcastle County, a crash happened near mile marker 71 at about 4:30pm Sunday when a tanker truck carrying gasoline reportedly suffered four flat tires including a blowout on the trailer that also sparked a fire. The area around the flaming truck was cleared in case of an explosion but luckily crews were able to extinguish the fire before that happened. No injuries were reported but the interstate was shut down in both directions due to the potential hazards and while crews worked to clean up the wreckage.

LAUREL COUNTY CRASH DISCOVERED BY FISHERMEN; TWO TEENS DEAD
A crash in Laurel County near the Bee Rock Campground area claimed the lives of two teenagers who were reportedly not discovered for several hours after the crash. A group of fishermen in the area say they spotted a car over an embankment Saturday afternoon and contacted police. Investigators found two people inside the car and both were pronounced dead at the scene. They were identified as 19 year old Joshua Campbell and 19 year old David Shepherd. The car apparently went off the roadway and flipped over the embankment but authorities were not sure exactly when the accident happened, although they said it appeared it was sometime Friday, meaning the victims remained at that location overnight before being found. Police are also investigating what may have caused the crash and if alcohol or drugs may have been involved.

McCREARY COUNTY'S FREE BULK ITEM DROP OFF CONTINUES
We had hoped to bring you an update today from McCreary County Solid Waste Coordinator Linda Babb on activities from the month of April, which has been a busy one for her office with the various spring cleanup events happening. However, due to the continuing bulk item drop off disposal program, Babb was unable to provide final numbers from the cleanup and her update has been delayed until those figures are available.

The free bulk item drop off began Saturday for McCreary County residents who are current on their garbage collection service with Scott Solid Waste and allows those individuals to deliver truck or trailer loads of bulk items, ranging from old furniture, mattresses, old appliances and other bulk items to the transfer station in Stearns where they can be properly disposed of free of charge. No regular household trash and no hazardous materials are accepted. We were told that through Monday a total of nine dumpsters had been filled but five were still on site to be filled so the program will continue until that happens.

In addition, local residents can also dispose of old, unwanted tires free of charge thanks to a tire amnesty grant received by the county from the state. This program allows residents to get a free voucher from the solid waste coordinator’s office to dispose of the tires. According to McCreary County Deputy Judge Executive Andy Powell as of Monday, nearly $2,000 remains in that grant fund which must be spent by the end of June or the balance will be returned to the state.

(Monday April 29, 2013)
McCREARY COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD SPLITS ON NEARLY EVERY FINANCIAL DECISION
During their regular monthly meeting last Thursday evening the McCreary County Board of Education was split on nearly every decision dealing with finances and the school district’s budget for the upcoming year. New board member Larry Davis was the deciding vote on several crucial measures including ways to cut spending, make up for a budget shortfall in excess of $1 million and balance the budget for the year beginning July 1^st. One major topic discussed in length was the possible phasing of the McCreary Academy, often referred to as the “alternative school”, into McCreary Central High School. Opponents of that move said it was not good for the students who have made mistakes or fallen behind, nor for the students in regular classes which may be disrupted by the inclusion of the alternative students into the student population. Mike Cash, Principal at the Academy, told board members that the school system would not really save money but cutting the program because they would also lose out on some revenue that helps support the program. In addition, Cash said the program has seen positive results among many students who may otherwise have dropped out but are instead getting their diplomas. Those who supported the move say it will cut costs by eliminating the principal position and transitioning other teaching positions into the high school. It was estimated about $200,000 could be saved by the move. In the end, board members Larry Davis, Nelda Gilreath and Roxanne Shook voted in support of the budget proposal to cut the more than $1 million in expenses, while Brandon Kidd and Debbie Gibson voted against the move saying they wanted to see other options put on the table.

HIGHWAY 27 CLEAN UP DRAWS MORE THAN 250 VOLUNTEERS DESPIT RAINY WEATHER
Rainy weather did not deter more than 250 volunteers from showing up Saturday to help clean up along Highway 27 in McCreary County. The annual Highway 27 Clean Sweet took in sections of the main highway through the county from the junction of Highway 90 in the north to Highway 92 in the south. Saturday was also the free bulk item drop off day in McCreary County. We will hear more about both events tomorrow when we get a monthly update on activity from McCreary County Solid Waste Coordinator Linda Babb.

(Friday April 26, 2013)
THIS SATURDAY IS CLEANUP DAY IN McCREARY COUNTY
This Saturday, April 27^th, is going to be a day to do some spring cleaning, both around your home and property and along the roadways in McCreary County. McCreary County and Eastern Kentucky PRIDE are co-sponsoring the annual Highway 27 cleanup tomorrow with registration starting at 9:30am at IGA in Whitley City followed by a cleanup through the county from 10:00am-12noon. All who volunteer for the “Highway 27 Clean Sweep” will receive a free PRIDE t-shirt, designed by local third grader Casey Jo Stephens, and a free lunch.

McCreary County is also hosting a free bulk item drop off Saturday starting at 8:30am at the transfer station in Stearns for any McCreary County resident current on garbage collection service. Those customers can deliver truck or trailer loads of bulk items, ranging from old furniture such as couches, chairs and mattresses to old appliances and more. No regular household trash and no hazardous materials will be accepted and the drop off will run for a limited time, so you are being encouraged to arrive early in the day.

For more information on either cleanup opportunity, call the McCreary County Solid Waste Coordinator’s office at 376-2556, the Judge Executive’s office at 376-2413 or visit the official county website at www.mccrearycounty.com.    

WHITLEY COUNTY WOMAN PLEADS GUILTY IN GRANDMOTHER’S DEATH
First thought to be death by natural causes, a Whitley County woman entered a guilty plea this week and was sentenced for killing her grandmother. Michele Loy admitted that she had caused her grandmother’s death at the age of 76. Prosecutors claimed Loy was selling Georgia Dotson pain medication rather than administering it to the woman and that was likely the motive for the killing. Loy was first charged with wanton murder but the charges were lessened in exchange for her guilty plea, which earned her a 20 year ticket to prison. Georgia Dotson’s daughter, Patricia Lawson, was also initially charged in connection with the death but those charges were dismissed in court this week.

“BAD HAIR BANDIT” ACCEPT PLEA DEAL FOR STRING OF BANK ROBBERIES
In exchange for pleading guilty to several bank robberies in 2011, the robbery suspect known as the “bad hair bandit” could receive a lighter sentence when in federal court for a sentencing hearing this coming August. Jason Fox and his wife, Tasha Fox, were charged with a string of bank robberies between June and December 2011 including at least five banks in Kentucky and two in Tennessee. One such bank was the Pine Knot branch of Bank of McCreary County, which was hit by the suspects on July 7, 2011 when the male subject entered wearing a blonde wig and padded clothing and armed with a handgun demanding money. A similar method of operation was used in the other bank robberies across the region. After pleading guilty to the robberies in US District Court, Jason Fox could face up to 24 years behind bars and be ordered to pay restitution of more than $79,000 to the banks that were robbed. His wife, Tasha Fox, entered a plea agreement earlier this year and will be sentenced June 20^th facing up to 15 years in prison.

BIG SOUTH FORK HOSTING ANNUAL SPRINT PLANTING FESTIVAL THIS SATURDAY
It’s an annual event in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area with activities planned all day this Saturday April 27^th. This will be the 13^th annual Spring Planting Festival held at the Bandy Creek Visitor Center and nearby Lora Blevins home place with events beginning at 9:00am. An antique tractor show will be part of this year’s festivities along with a program on the history of moonshining in the area at 9:30am. Other activities include a talk on how to save hemlocks at 10:00am; a presentation on buried treasurer (fossils as a record of the past) at 11:00am; a talk on sharing the outdoors with bears at 12noon; a presentation on abandoned oil and gas wells in the Big South Fork region at 1:00pm; and the songs of the Big South Fork at 1:30pm. In addition, there will be music throughout the day provided by the Knoxville Area Dulcimer Club and the bluegrass band Great Day in the Morning. A number of old fashioned demonstrations and crafts will be on display and for sale along with items from various food vendors through the day from 9:00am to 4:00pm Saturday. For more information or directions to the Bandy Creek area call 423-286-7275 or visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/biso.

(Thursday April 25, 2013)
McCREARY BOARD OF EDUCATION TO DEAL WITH BUDGET SHORTFALL
The McCreary County Board of Education will meet in regular session this evening (Thursday) at 6:00pm at the board office in Stearns. A number of items are on the agenda including the swearing in of the newest board member, Larry Davis. In addition, the board will deal with a projected $1 million budget shortfall as they are set to approve a budget for the 2013-2014 school year.

FIBER OPTIC PROJECT MOVES FORWARD FOR HIGHLAND TELEPHONE
Members of Highland Telephone Cooperative have been asking when the new fiber optic project would improve their service. The answer, according to information released this week by Highland Telephone, is very soon. In fact, officials with HTC say some customers are now starting to be cut over to the new fiber optic system and others can expect to be contacted soon about scheduling a time for an installer to complete the process at homes and businesses. The new fiber optic lines will not only improve telephone service and greatly increase the speed of Highland’s internet service, but will also allow for digital television service to be offered in areas previously unreached by Highland, such as areas in McCreary County. Installers who come to complete the cutover at each home and business will reportedly be leaving information on television service that is and will be available in the area and customers will soon be able to start taking advantage of that service. For more details on Highland Telephone’s fiber optic project you can visit www.highlandtel.net or stop by the Whitley City office or call 611. More details on the project can also be found in this week’s edition of The McCreary County Record.

STATE APPROVES ASPHALT REHAB PROJECT IN McCREARY COUNTY
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet released the list of asphalt rehab projects approved across the state this week with a total price tag of more than $27 million in 45 counties. Among the list is a project in McCreary County that will resurface KY Highway 92 from the Yamacraw bridge over the Big South Fork to the railroad bridge in Stearns for a distance of 5.3 miles. The total cost of the project, using state highway funds, is $451,633 and the project is scheduled for completion by November of this year. Additional projects will be announced later in the year according to state highway officials.

McCREARY CENTRAL RAIDER BASEBALL HOST FUNDAMENTAL CAMP SATURDAY
This Saturday April 27th the McCreary Central High School Raider Baseball team will host a fundamentals of baseball camp for youth ages 7-14 at the high school baseball field. The camp will run from check in at 10:30am to 1:00pm and will include warm up, throwing mechanics, fielding mechanics, hitting mechanics, and live hitting on the field with all aspects instructed by coaches. For more information on Saturday’s baseball fundamentals camp, call McCreary Central High School at 376-5051.

(Wednesday April 24, 2013)
UPDATE ON PULASKI COUNTY STUDENT WHO BROUGHT GUN TO SCHOOL
In an update to the story we brought you yesterday, the 11 year old Southern Pulaski Elementary School student who brought a loaded gun to school Monday is now back home with his parents after spending Monday night in a juvenile detention center. Authorities say the boy appeared before a judge Tuesday morning and was released to his parents but is facing a felony charge and has also been expelled from school. The boy brought a loaded gun to school in the pocket of his cargo pants Monday but immediately notified school officials when he realized his mistake. Meanwhile, it has just been reported that a private security company in Somerset has installed three “panic” buttons at each of Pulaski County’s schools, including one next to each front office receptionist’s desk. This move was motivated by the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Connecticut a few months back. The buttons reportedly send a signal directly to 911 informing them of an emergency at the school.    

JUDGE EXECUTIVE JOINS “ADVANCE McCREARY” ON CURRENT ISSUES PROGRAM
Members of the Advance McCreary group were joined Monday evening by McCreary County Judge Executive Doug Stephens on the current issues program “Truth or Politics”, hosted by Darlene Price. A number of issues were discussed during the program but the one that seemed to get the most attention was trash, including the county’s policy on garbage disposal, litter along roadways and recycling efforts. Judge Stephens said while trash still remains a major issue and obstacle for progress in the county, some positive signs are being seen. In addition to less trash being seen along Highway 90 during that recent cleanup, a Rock Creek cleanup last weekend also yielded less to be picked up. When asked by a citizen in attendance at Monday’s program about whether garbage pickup service in the county is “mandatory” and what the county is doing to enforce that measure, Judge Stephens said that while he hopes to encourage residents to take part because they see the benefit to the program, some other steps, including legal action, are being taken.

Another issue addressed to Judge Stephens was how federal cuts handed down from Washington, DC are impacting local government and if local officials are already feeling the effects. Stephens mentioned the cuts being seen in grant funds as well as a 5% cut in money received from the Forest Service for roads and schools in McCreary County. That money, known as Title I money, has already been received and, in some cases, used by the county. One option on the table is for the federal money received in Title II phase of Forest Service funds to be reduced rather than forcing the county to return money already received.

For more on Truth or Politics or to listen to the full program visit www.truthorpolitics.info. 

(Tuesday April 23, 2013)
PULASKI COUNTY STUDENT BRINGS GUN TO SCHOOL
Parents of students at Southern Elementary School in Pulaski County were shocked Monday when they learned that an 11 year old student brought a loaded gun to school. The boy reportedly forgot the gun was in the pocket of his cargo pants and when he realized what he had done, he took the weapon to school officials. The child was sent home with his father but has since been charged and is said to be in a juvenile detention center. He was scheduled to be in juvenile court today to answer to charges. Many parents and those in the community in Pulaski County are questioning how an 11 year old got a loaded gun and also why they did not receive a phone call from the school notifying them of the situation. Instead, school officials sent letters home to parents at the end of the day to inform then what had taken place. The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department investigated the incident. 

NEW MEMBER OF McCREARY SCHOOL BOARD SELECTED
About two months after Stewart Jones resigned his seat on the McCreary County Board of Education citing personal reasons, a new member of the board has reportedly been selected. Whitley City resident and radio personality Larry “Lucky Dog” Davis was notified by mail this past weekend that he has been chosen to serve the remaining year and a half of the unexpired term representing McCreary County’s 4^th educational district. Davis was among three applicants interviewed by a committee for the seat, including retired educators David “Mike” Baker and Clinton Gay. The committee held interviews last week and consisted of a representative from the Kentucky Department of Education as well as two from school districts outside McCreary County. The local school board will hold their regular monthly board meeting this Thursday April 25^th at 6:00pm at which time Davis is expected to be sworn in. He will serve at least until the regular election for the seat in November 2014. In addition to being a retired railroad employee of 38 years and host of various programs on WHAY Radio, Davis is actively involved with the Blazin’ Bluegrass Festival and also helps raise money for the local Relay for Life each year with his Elvis show.

FORMER KENTUCKY AGRICULTURE COMMISSIONER INDICTED
Once a Kentucky basketball standout and the former Agriculture Commission for Kentucky, in addition to being a candidate for Lt. Governor in 2011, Richie Farmer has been indicted on federal charges. The federal grand jury filed the indictment Friday with the details released Monday. Farmer faces four counts of misappropriating property and funds while serving as head of the Department of Agriculture and also faces a single count of soliciting property of value in exchange for influence in department matters. Accusations against Farmer include everything from using state employees to run personal errands to obtaining a job for a woman with whom he is accused of having a relationship and receiving various items of value such as guns, clothes, hotel rooms and appliances. He has also been accused of promising department grant money to a private business in exchange for three vehicles that were allegedly provided to him and his father. If convicted on all federal counts against him, Richie Farmer could face up to ten years in prison and fines worth $250,000 on each count. Officials say they will also seek to have Farmer repay the approximately $450,000 he is accused of mishandling while in his former job. Farmer currently sells cars in his hometown of Manchester but was previously a standout guard for the Kentucky Wildcats from 1988-1992.

(Monday April 22, 2013)
**UPDATE: GOLDEN ALERT CANCELLED FOR ELDERLY McCREARY COUNTY MAN
After issuing a Golden Alert for 75 year old William Alton Slaven of Whitley City this past weekend, officials cancelled the alert as of Monday morning. Reports indicate the man, who suffers from Alzheimer's and diabetes, was found and returned home safely.  
 

GOLDEN ALERT ISSUED FOR MISSING McCREARY COUNTY MAN
McCreary County Emergency Management and law enforcement officials issued a Golden Alert this past weekend for a missing man. According to the bulletin released 75 year old William Alton Slaven of the Whitley City area was last seen Saturday afternoon by a neighbor driving a 2007 Chrysler 300 that was silver in color. He was seen just minutes later on US Highway 27 driving north in the Greenwood area but has not been seen since. Authorities say Slaven is a diabetic who needs medical attention and also suffers from Alzheimer’s disease. He is described as a white male about 5’ 11” tall weighing about 240 lbs with gray hair who wears glasses. He was last seen driving a 2007 Chrysler 300 4 door, silver in color with license plate number 310 NRV. If anyone has information on the whereabouts of William Slaven, for whom a Golden Alert was issued this weekend, call the McCreary County 911 Center at 376-9117.      

HIKERS RESCUED AT LAUREL RIVER LAKE AFTER COLD NIGHT
A group of hikers apparently unprepared to spend a night in the woods alone had to do just that last Thursday night when they became stranded by rising water. The group was hiking in the Laurel River Lake area in northern Whitley County Thursday afternoon when rising water trapped them and prevented the group from returning home. The group spent the night in the woods but was able to build a fire to help stay warm despite not being dressed for the chilly weather. Search crews spent Thursday evening and much of the day Friday looking for the group before they were finally rescued safely Friday evening. The only injuries reported included mild hypothermia.

LAUREL COUNTY MAN CHARGED WITH ASSAULTING 9 YEAR OLD BOY
A 44 year old man in Laurel County has been charged after he allegedly assaulted his girlfriend’s 9 year old son. Police say they received a call about the incident Friday afternoon and when they arrived at the scene they found Paul Gray intoxicated. Gray was arrested and charged with assault, disorderly conduct and alcohol intoxication after he allegedly twisted the boy’s arm and hit him in the head. The child was treated at a nearby hospital.

(Friday April 19, 2013)
McCREARY COUNTY SEEKING NEW RESCUE SQUAD CHIEF
The McCreary County Search and Rescue Squad is doing a different type of searching these days. They are searching for a new leader to get the squad back on track. After the former chief and treasurer were removed and have now been charged for misusing squad funds, a new board of directors was appointed this month by the McCreary County Fiscal Court. County officials are now accepting applications from interested individuals to serve as chief of the local rescue squad. Resumes and applications will be taken for the post to head the all volunteer organization until 4:00pm Friday May 3^rd at the McCreary County Judge Executive’s Office. Applicants should be familiar with all aspects of emergency service and response as well as search and rescue squad operations and be certified in CPR, first air, and basic search and rescue and initial attack management. For more information on the position contact the McCreary County Judge Executive’s Office at 376-2413, e-mail info@mccrearycounty.com or visit www.mccrearycounty.com.

FREE BULK ITEM DROP OFF APRIL 27^TH IN McCREARY COUNTY
McCreary County residents who are current on garbage collection service will have the chance to do some spring cleaning as a free bulk item drop off day is scheduled for next Saturday April 27^th. The gates to the transfer station in Stearns will open at approximately 8:30am with residents able to dispose of truck or trailer loads of bulk items including furniture, old appliances and other items provided regular household trash is not included as well as any hazardous materials. The event will run only as long as dumpsters are available and the number of dumpsters is limited to the amount of funding for the event. Those participating are being encouraged to be at the transfer station early on Saturday April 27^th. The event is sponsored in part by the McCreary County Solid Waste Coordinator’s Office, 109 Solid Waste Board, McCreary County Fiscal Court, and Eastern Kentucky PRIDE.

In addition, Saturday April 27^th is the day for the Highway 27 “Clean Sweep” trash pickup event through McCreary County. Tammie Wilson with PRIDE is encouraging volunteer individuals and groups to get involved. Registration will begin at 9:30am at IGA in Whitley City with the cleanup from 10:00am-12noon followed by a free lunch for volunteers.

For more information on the bulk item drop off or the Highway 27 cleanup, contact the McCreary County Solid Waste Coordinator’s office at 376-2556, the Judge Executive’s office at 376-2413 or visit www.mccrearycounty.com.

MAY 3-5 BRINGS NEW ERA OF ADVENTURE TOURISM TO McCREARY COUNTY
McCreary County Tourism Director Tara Chaney, and it seems most in county government, are excited about the new era of tourism coming to McCreary County these days. In addition to the Trail Town project underway and the various attractions to draw visitors to our area, the new Skullbone ATV Recreation Area in western McCreary County is set to officially open next month. Chaney says the Skullbone trails already offer many miles of all terrain recreation for locals and visitors but more trails are also being added. The grand opening for the Skullbone Recreation Area will cover three days from Friday May 3^rd through Sunday May 5^th. For more details on that event or the trails offered you can call 376-5659 or visit www.mccrearytourism.com.

(Thursday April 18, 2013)
PULASKI COUNTY MURDER-SUICIDE INVESTIGATED
Authorities say it appears the death of a husband and wife in Pulaski County was a murder-suicide. It happened Tuesday when a neighbor reported a shooting to police. Upon investigation officers determined that 34 year old Vernon Lee Barnes had shot his wife with a 22 caliber rifle then killed himself with the same gun. Reports indicate the couple had been having marital problems and that 33 year old Paula Jean Barnes was planning to separate from her husband. The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the incident.

McCREARY COUNTY EMS DIRECTOR DROPPED FROM DISCRIMINATION LAWSUIT
McCreary County EMS Director Jimmy Barnett has been dropped as a defendant from a lawsuit filed against him and the county for discrimination and wrongful termination. The McCreary County Record reports that Barnett was removed as an individual from the case by order of US District Court but that the case against McCreary County will proceed. The lawsuit was filed last year by former EMS employees David and Rhonda Ivey. The case stems from allegations that Mrs. Ivey was sexually harassed by Barnett dating back to 2009 and that once Barnett became EMS Director in 2011 the Iveys were wrongfully terminated in part due to complaining about the alleged harassment. While Jimmy Barnett was dismissed as an individual defendant in the case, the suit remains active and will proceed against McCreary County Fiscal Court and McCreary County EMS.       

SK RECC MEMBERS RUNNING OUT OF TIME TO VOTE IN BOARD ELECTIONS
Members of South Kentucky RECC are running out of time to cast their votes in the current board elections. Next Wednesday April 24^th is the deadline to have ballots back in for them to be counted in the race for board seats in districts 1, 2, 5, and 6. All members of South Kentucky RECC should have received their official ballot in the mail just after April 1^st and can vote for one candidate in each of the four districts for a total of four votes per ballot. All candidates had to meet set criteria to run for these seats including turning in signatures from at least 75 members and passing background checks. Additional information about the districts involved, the candidates and voting process can be found online at www.skrecc.com.

(Wednesday April 17, 2013)
PULASKI COUNTY TEEN IS DEAD; MAN FACING MURDER CHARGES
A deadly crash in Pulaski County Monday night claimed the life of a teenager and sent a man to jail with DUI and murder charges. Authorities say the crash occurred at about 10:30pm Monday at the intersection of Kentucky 635 and Smith Vault Road about 10 miles north of Somerset. 19 year old Jacob Ebenstein was ejected from the motorcycle he was riding after a car, driven by 40 year old William Wesley, reportedly pulled out in front of him causing the collision. Ebenstein was airlifted from the scene to UK Hospital in Lexington but later died from his injuries. William Wesley was arrested at the scene and charged with driving under the influence. He was lodged in the Pulaski County Detention Center with the charge of murder added later after the teen died at the hospital. The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Department continues the investigation.

McCREARY COUNTY’S INFLUENCE CONTINUES BEING FELT ACROSS REGION
The talent and influence of McCreary County’s people continues being felt across the region with the announcement this week that a McCreary County native will now head the Eastern Kentucky PRIDE program. Tammie Wilson, a graduate of McCreary Central High School, was selected by PRIDE’s board of directors to serve as interim President/CEO until next month when the appointment is expected to be made official and final. Wilson replaces Karen Kelly who left the post to take the position of District Administrator for US Congressman Hal Rogers. Since 2008, Kelly had been leading both PRIDE and the anti-drug program known as Operation UNITE. Tammie Wilson joined PRIDE through her position with the Center for Rural Development which dates back to 2001. In 2005, Wilson was promoted to Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of PRIDE. She has resided, with her son Cody, in the Somerset area for the past 12 years. For more information on PRIDE, which stands for Personal Responsibility In a Desirable Environment, visit their website at www.kypride.org.    

HIGHLAND COMMUNICATIONS ISSUES SCAM ALERT
Another scam alert has been issued for this area, coming from Highland Communications and involving reports of telephone scams. Highland reports that some customers have been getting calls telling them that they have viruses or other unwanted items on their computer. The caller then attempts to sell the potential victim software to correct or fix the problem and asks for personal and account information. Highland officials say this is a scam and not to give any information over the phone or internet to anyone unless you have initiated the contact. In this case, you are advised to use your own anti-virus software program, some of which are available for free download online, to determine if your computer has any of these problems.

WHITLEY COUNTY MAN JAILED FOR EXPOSING HIMSELF TO CONSTABLE
A Whitley County man enjoying the day at Laurel River Lake Sunday took getting back to nature a little too far. Constable Ron Bowling said he was fishing at the lake when he spotted a man looking at him. Just a moment later the man was stripping off his clothes and making rude gestures. Bowling called for police assistance and officers were able to track and locate the man, later identified as 26 year old Larry Wayne Osbourne. He was arrested and charged with indecent exposure, possession of marijuana, public intoxication and disorderly conduct. The man was lodged in the Whitley County Detention Center where, we hope, he was forced to put his clothes back on.

(Tuesday April 16, 2013)
McCREARY COUNTY JUDGE EXECUTIVE OFFERS MONTHLY UPDATE
We continue our series of updates on activity from county government in McCreary County. Judge Executive Doug Stephens offers an update this week on areas ranging from tourism and economic development to 911, county budget and other issues facing the county. To listen to the full update from Judge Stephens listen to our Daily Update report on radio or visit www.mccrearycounty.com.

(Monday April 15, 2013)
McCREARY COUNTY CLAIMS THE 2013 PRIDE LITTER CUP AWARD
Each year, volunteers from McCreary and Whitley Counties, as well as other surrounding communities, come out to take part in the annual Cumberland Falls and Highway 90 cleanup. That event was held this past Saturday with PRIDE announcing that a total of 488 volunteers registered. McCreary County recorded the highest number of volunteers from a single county with 229 and won the Litter Cup for 2013. Volunteers picked up trash, litter and debris from around Cumberland Falls and Highway 90 on both sides of the county line followed by a free lunch and presentation of awards.  A Highway 27 cleanup through McCreary County is scheduled for Saturday April 27^th with volunteers asked to register at the IGA parking lot in Whitley City starting at 9:00am. The cleanup will last from 10:00am to 12noon followed by lunch for volunteers.

McCreary County and PRIDE are also joining to offer local residents a free bulk item drop off day at the transfer station in Stearns Saturday April 27^th. Local residents in good standing on garbage collection service can dispose of items starting at about 8:30am that morning until all available dumpsters have been filled.        

SMALL GROUP OF CITIZENS SHOWS UP FOR TOWN HALL MEETING
After weeks of pushing for answers about the plan for the future by local elected leaders and calling for town hall meetings to address issues in the county, only a few concerned citizens attended Friday evening’s town hall meeting at the train depot in Stearns. In fact, it was noted that the number of elected officials and county department heads on hand to update the citizens actually outnumbered others in attendance.

Present were McCreary County Judge Executive Doug Stephens along with all four magistrates and all county department heads from the road department to EMS, tourism and all other county departments. Judge Stephens spent part of the session discussing his ideas and vision for the county saying that the chances of a big manufacturing plant locating here and creating jobs all at once was very small and that his administration is focusing most of its attention on supporting existing small businesses, helping those who want to start a small business and boosting the local tourism industry. Economic Development Director Susan Stephens and Tourism Director Tara Chaney were both on hand to back up Judge Stephens’ comments and discuss what they are working on.

One issue addressed which some citizens in attendance said was a point of confusion is the status of 911 in the county. Despite numerous radio and newspaper articles explaining the use of the $2.65 fee on each phone since 1998 some citizens apparently still believe that money was supposed to be used specifically for enhanced 911 and that it has either been set aside in a fund or has been misused elsewhere. In fact, according to county officials and backed up by county financial statements, the money collected from telephone lines for 911 since first implemented has been used to operate the existing 911 service including paying for equipment, utilities and payroll.

Other issues discussed at Friday’s town hall meeting included solid waste issues such as recycling and garbage collection service, the county park, emergency services and the jail. On that topic, Judge Stephens said it is still unclear exactly what financial impact the jail’s closure will have on the county but did say that other counties that have closed jails have reported actually saving money in the long run. He noted that talks are underway with other surrounding counties to find the lowest rates for housing inmates and that several options are being examined.

Future town hall style meetings will likely be held in other parts of the county to continue gathering input from citizens. The next regular meeting of the McCreary County Fiscal Court is scheduled for Tuesday May 14^th at 5:00pm.

NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK INCLUDES ACTIVITIES AT McCREARY COUNTY LIBRARY
National Library Week began yesterday (April 14^th) and runs through Saturday April 20^th. The McCreary County Public Library is getting in on the occasion by recognizing National Bookmobile Day which is held this Wednesday as part of the weeklong celebration. On Wednesday April 17^th, the McCreary County Public Library will offer a tour of the local bookmobile which will be on hand at the library on Main Street in downtown Whitley City from 9:00am to 2:00pm. In addition to the bookmobile which transports reading materials and other services to the various communities in the county, the library offers many other services such as historical resources, interlibrary loan programs, public use computers, copies and faxes, assistance doing research and completing resumes, and the loaning of books, videos and even music. The library’s meeting room also offers a free venue for various community meetings including Chamber of Commerce, Girl Scouts, Gideons, community watch and others. For information on the services offered at the McCreary County Public Library stop by in downtown Whitley City, call 376-8738, visit them online at www.mccrearylibrary.org or look them up on Facebook.