Photo by Lisa Bicknell

Bobbie Bownman has reopened the fairbarn stable and hopes to provide a “Home Sweet Home” for horses in need of one.  She is also organizing a couple of horse shows for later in the year.

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

Bobbie Morris Bowman remembers when her dad Jim Morris used to bring her and her siblings to the horse shows at the county fair when they were all just kids.

Horse shows were “a thing” back then and drew good crowds. Bobbie loved to walk around to the stable behind the show ring to get a closer look at all the activity back there.

She is now hoping to see the old stable come to life again with the opening of her new business, B’s Boarding and Horse Care.

Bobbie began riding horses when she was three, and her love for horses has endured.  When she recently had the opportunity to lease the stables at the fairgrounds, she took the plunge and started a business.

“Let my barn be your horse’s “Home Sweet Home,” is Bobbie’s new motto.   

The stable opened on February 1.  Stall rental is $65 a month if renters provide their own feed and hay, and $125 per month if Bobbie provides their food.

The services of a farrier are available for an extra charge, as well as horse training services and riding lessons.

Bobbie already has “five and a half” horses boarding with her, or, five horses and a three week-old colt.

She feeds the horses twice a day and waters them three times a day.  She will also clean the stalls so that owners are free to simply come over, saddle up and ride their horses around the field or the show ring if that’s what they choose to do.

While the county fair won’t be hosting a horse show this year, Bobbie wants to see the tradition continue, and she is organizing a show for the spring, as well as one for fall.  She has just confirmed the dates for horse shows on May 12 and September 15.

The whole point of these shows will be to have fun and not get too serious with it, Bobby says.  There will be a few pleasure classes but mostly just lots of “fun stuff” such as egg n’ spoon races.

Bobbie encourages people to stop by anytime to look around or just to visit.  Last Saturday, she had lots of visitors and saddled up her mare Gracie for a couple of children to ride.

On Saturday, March 3, Bobbie will be hosting an open house.  She will be serving refreshments, and she’s looking forward to showing visitors around and answering any questions.

Call 606-304-8651, or email Bobbie at bsquared218@yahoo.com for more information.

Photo submitted

Charlotte Brinegar, at right, received a pin for five years of service on a foster care review board.

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

Every year, thousands of Kentucky’s children end up in the care of the state for a variety of reasons.

Finding loving, permanent homes for these children is a time-consuming task, one that is often overwhelming to the family court system.

To address the problem of back-logged family court cases, the state of Kentucky created a volunteer-based citizen review system, now the largest one in the nation, according to the Citizen Foster Care Review Board website.  There are about 700 review boards statewide.

Each county has a review board, and some have more than one.  These volunteers conduct about 21,000 reviews every year of more than 11,000 children who have been removed from their homes and placed in foster care, with relatives, or with child-care facilities.

There is a tremendous need for foster and adoptive parents in Kentucky, but not everyone can see themselves taking that step.

Volunteering to be on a review board is another way to offer help.

Estill County resident Charlotte Brinegar, a retired teacher, has been serving on the local review board now for about five years.  She first became aware of the opportunity after she read an article in the Lexington Herald-Leader about the need for people to serve on review boards.

At the time, Brinegar was still working, so she didn’t feel she could be a foster parent. These days, she’s busy with grandchildren, but she still wants to contribute.

“I do enjoy it,” she said.  “It’s not a whole lot, but I feel like I’m doing something to help.”

The main goal of the family courts is to reunite families.  Parents of children who have been removed from homes must go through a process to get their children back: they must take classes, are drug-screened, etc.

If a child is already in foster care, the review boards monitor those situations to make sure the children are adjusting and are well taken care of.

Those who participate in review boards assist family court judges by reading over case files and answering a two-page questionnaire. Reviewers also can make recommendations or take note of “findings” in the case files.

This saves the judge some time, because he or she might not have enough time to read through a four-inch case file.

There is often a backlog of family court cases, because family court only meets one day a month.  If someone can’t come for the review, the case is postponed for another month, and the cases are bogged down even further.

To become a volunteer for a review board, members must agree to an all-day training, are sworn in by a judge, and agree to total confidentiality.  Many are retired teachers and medical personnel, Brinegar said.

She is the only one from Estill County who serves on the review board in Estill County.  Local review boards try to maintain three to five members.  Typically there are three members in the county, but two of those are from Madison County.

The process doesn’t take up a lot of time. One day a month, Brinegar and others serving on the board meet to review case files, then they gather for a face to face review with case workers, a supervisor, foster parents, biological parents, and sometimes the children, particularly the teens.

If it’s clear that a foster family is not a good fit, members of review boards can recommend a child be moved.  They can also recommend that children be returned to their biological parents if those parents have taken the necessary steps to provide a good home for the children.

Additional foster parents are needed but participating in a review board can also be a way to help Kentucky children to be placed in loving homes.

Anyone who would like to become a CFCRB volunteer, may contact the Department of Family and Juvenile Services, Administrative Office of the Courts,  1001 Vandalay Drive, Frankfort, Ky, 40601.  Call 800-928-2350 or email CFRB@kycourts.net.

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

James Woolery stepped to the podium during the Irvine City Council meeting on Monday night to address the city’s garbage and property nuisance ordinances and ask that they be better enforced.

Woolery, a veteran and a real estate agent, said, “We’re trying to sell this town.”

He explained that with the chemical weapons at the ordinance on one side and the landfill on the other, it is difficult enough without the added burden of neglected and junked-up properties.

“Why are we not enforcing rules?” he said.  He wondered why stickers couldn’t be placed on doors or windows when property owners are in violation, then owners be fined if they don’t clean up.

Police Chief Brad Smith said Woolery’s concerns are “a valid concern,” and he said that he accepts responsibility for sometimes being slow to issue violations.

“How do we change the mindset of the people,” asked Councilman Tim Burkhart.

Woolery said that if they start getting fined for every day, “they may not care [about the appearance], but they will clean it up.”

City Attorney Rodney Davis explained that when the IPD issues criminal violations, that people generally comply with that, but he said that to foreclose on abatement liens costs the city $5,000 to $8,000 each. The city has forced three foreclosures within the last year or so.

Francine Bonny, chair of the Mountain Mushroom Festival committee, reminded the council that there is only two months to go until the festival.  She introduced James Maples, assistant professor of sociology from EKU, who led an economic impact study at the 2017 Mountain Mushroom Festival.

Maples said that the study looked at “place attachment,” or how many people are coming back because of ties to the county, state or region, as well as the economic impact.  One hundred and eighty people were interviewed.

An estimated 20,000 people visited the 2017 festival, and an estimated $728,000 was spent in the county, mostly on food and gas.

Forty one percent of those polled were new people coming to town.  Maples recommended that the city make it easier for the vendors to collect taxes (via wireless internet access), and work with additional local community members, such as the rock-climbing community at the Red River Gorge.  He also suggested that an ultra-marathon, 50 miles or longer, would attract people from all over the country, and they would likely stay more than one day.  One of the findings of the study, however, was t hat attendees spend very little on lodging in the city of Irvine.  He said that typically the amount of money spent in the area on food and gas, etc., doubles when guests stay overnight.

“This is something to treasure,” said Maples of the festival.

Estill Development Alliance director Joe Crawford gave an update to the city on the EDA’s activities, and he said, “It’s a big deal to even have an economic study.”  He added that such studies help with the application for grants.

In other business, Mayor W. J. Noland said, “I talked with Mr. Caudill about repairing Laurel Street, and he said they [the state] would take it over if we take care of Park Avenue and Orchard St.”

Council members wanted to check on that further.

“As long as I’m mayor there will be no parking on Laurel,” said Noland.

Attorney Davis checked on the code of ordinances, which he said states that parking areas can be designated by ordinance.

City Clerk Robin Powell spoke of next year’s budget and said the city can expect an increase in rates paid into Kentucky retirement of $42,000.

She also announced that Ron Newlin has applied for a privilege license to open the Bargain Bin at 100 River Drive.

The council went into closed session to discuss litigation.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Irvine City Council is at city hall on Monday, March 12, at 7 p.m.

Photos by Lisa Bicknell

“I wandered lonely as a cloud

That floats on high o’er vales and hills,

When all at once I saw a crowd,

A host, of golden daffodils;

Beside the lake, beneath the trees,

Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.” William Wordsworth

These well-known lines from a Wordsworth poem come to mind when one gazes on this this field of daffodils in the Sand Hill area.   The owner of the farm where they are located says the flowers have been multiplying for generations.

The Citizen Voice and Times will be having a special section in the 3/15 edition of the newspaper for the Estill County High School Boys Basketball team. Due to the game starting at noon on Wednesday we will be having an early delivery of the newpapers so that everyone can get a look at the paper before heading out to the game! Our newspapers will be delivering by 9AM Wednesday morning!! Good Luck to the Engineers!!

Photos by Shurla Cooper

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

Although forecasters warned of accumulating snowfall on Sunday night, many residents of Estill County were not prepared for the heavy snow that downed tree limbs and power lines.

Most areas of the county received six to eight inches of snow, but higher elevations received up to a foot.

At one point on Monday, more than 6,000 Jackson Energy customers were without power.

Phone service was interrupted for many people as well, which made for a cold dark day with little means to communicate.     

Temperatures hovered above freezing, so major roads were mostly clear by mid-day, but slushy snow on side roads and parking lots made for risky travel for some.

School was canceled yet again on Monday and Tuesday.  Students were also out on Wednesday to allow them opportunity to attend the high school tournament at Rupp Arena.

Photos by Jeff Moreland

Former CVT Editor

Jacolbi Crowe, one of Estill County’s best soccer players, hit more lay-ups than a Corbin fan during half-time at the boys basketball game at Rupp Arena on Wednesday.  He was then awarded the opportunity to try a half-court shot.  If he made the shot, he’d win a $1,500 scholarship.  He did. Even the Corbin cheerleaders were happy..

Photo by Lisa Bicknell

There are eight candidates on the ballot for Estill County Judge-executive.  From left, they are: Rhonda Childers, Dwight Richardson, Tom Hart, Gary Powell, Jim Walters, Kevin Williams, Joseph Lambert, and Donnie Watson.

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

Candidates for Estill County Judge-executive were featured in the first of a series of political candidate forums held at the Estill High School Auditorium on Thursday night. This Thursday, March 29^th, candidates for sheriff will have the opportunity to share their concerns and vision for Estill County.

About 150 people are estimated to have attended the county judge forum.  Each candidate was given an equal amount of time to introduce themselves, then each drew a question which all candidates had opportunity to answer.

The order in which the candidates introduced themselves was also a draw.

Donnie Watson was chosen to introduce himself first.  Watson served two non-consecutive terms as Estill County Judge-executive and says he balanced eight budgets.

He spoke of his work history at Trane, from where he retired, his six years with Toler Funeral Home, and his four year bus driving tenure.  He said that he retired once, and it wasn’t what he thought it would be, so he went back to work.  Watson listed some of the programs started under his watch as county judge, including opening the first animal shelter, starting a recycling program and creating a ten-year host agreement with the landfill.

Watson said he didn’t have to prove he could do the job, because he has already done it.

Joseph Lambert, a write-in candidate, said he was born and raised in Estill County, that he’s lived here for 45 years.  “I know these roads and what they were like back in the 70s, the 80s, the 90s and the 2000s.” Lambert said they all need to be fixed, but it will take time.  He also wants to support the school system where he went to high school.  He said he quit school in 10^th grade, because he had to work.  If elected, he says, all roads will be done, and paint lines put on them. He also wants to “get the jail opened back up.”

Kevin Williams, who was appointed county judge-executive in January, said that he has always been dedicated to the community.  Thursday was his 80^th day on the job, which he describes as a rescue mission to save the county.  Williams has worked with fire and rescue groups and is a business owner. Of the county judge position, he said, “this is not an eight hour a day job.  It’s tough.”

He said he has had to make some cuts, and people have asked him why, saying he was committing “political suicide.”  But Williams insists that the county must be run like a business and not a popularity contest.

Jim Walters began his introduction by speaking of friends with whom he graduated in 1963 who had gone on to be successful.  Walters himself was the eighth of 11 siblings and the first to graduate high school.  His background includes 32 years with Frigidaire, working as a licensed plumber for five years, and working in real estate.  Walters said, “We have to have jobs here,” and he said the county needs to market assets that are already here, such as the river.  He suggested bringing the matter to the table and talk about dredging the river to open it up.  He spoke of the jail, and the need to work toward a part-time solution, but for the long term, he envisions moving it out of the current location to out in the county in an up-to-date complex.

Gary Powell said he has lived here all his life, and that he has started up seven companies in his lifetime.  He spoke of his business background, and admitted that he is not a politician but he believes his business background will serve him well.  He also told of his work with God’s Outreach in Madison County, and his work to bring that organization to Estill County.  He said he will probably be signing a lease over the weekend on a building to house God’s Outreach here.  He asked what the county has to offer with tax rates so high, the landfill on one side of the county and the ordinance on the other, a declining population and no jobs.

“We have to implement something,” he said. Powell said he would run as an independent if he could, and said, “I don’t care what your party is.”  He said if he is elected, he will run the county as “transparent as can be.”

Thomas Hart said he can’t say that his primary qualification for county judge is that he was born and raised in Estill County, but considering the decline of the population and fortune of Estill Countians, he thinks that it is time for someone with “a broader vision and skill set” to take the lead.

Hart is a retired Air Force Colonel and has worked as a civil engineer, which he says provided him with experience in road building, etc.  Hart noted that businesses are closing, the population is aging, children are leaving the county, or driving hours a day to surrounding towns to work.

“It doesn’t have to be that way,” he said.  Hart said the county needs to make itself attractive to businesses, and he has experience as a team builder to lead “this journey of economic revitalization.”

Dwight Richardson introduced himself as an employee of the Estill County Water District.  He said the hardest part about his job is the public speaking.

“I’m not really a politician,” he said, “but I’m a hard worker, and I’m honest.” He spoke of the need for the vocational school, and said few young people are learning trades such as block laying, framing houses, and construction.

Richardson spoke of the county’s litter problem and said that inmates of the jail should be out cleaning the roadsides, that it is a shame to pay people $15 to $20 dollars an hour to do that job when inmates might prefer to work off their fines.  He also said he thinks small business is the county’s best bet, because even small companies such as Carhartt are having trouble keeping employees because of the drug epidemic.

Rhonda Childers said she wants to be the next Estill County Judge-executive because she is tired of business as usual.  She said people speak to her of the financial crisis, the addiction crisis, the economy in decline, but “I don’t hear a whole lot of answers.”

However, Childers said she thinks the county is in “a unique position” to overcome its challenges.  “It’s a great time to be local…I believe that with all my heart.”

She explained that people want a safe place to raise their kids and send them to school, an affordable home and to be able to go out and eat with their neighbors, etc., things she pointed out are already here.

She also thinks the county is surrounded by potential partners, particularly in the Red River Gorge direction, and the county already has industry in the form of small businesses, tourism,  agriculture, and service.  “We can grow our county and sustain our citizens.” she said.

The first question drawn asked candidates to list and prioritize issues important to the county.

Donnie Watson spoke of the neeed for a balanced budget, and said, “We need a jail, and we need to work on our drug problem.”  He also would make road projects a priority.

Joseph Lambert said that he would talk to Frankfort about an alarm system or metal detector to keep schools safe.  He also said he thinks it’s important to “keep our head up,” and to support veterans.

Kevin Williams said the county needs to “get our budget in line,” clean up the county and enforce ordinances pertaining to that, and run the county like a business.

Jim Walters said a balanced budget and finding better resources would be at the top of his list.  “How can our revenue be increased?” he asked. He said the county is limited in how it can do that, adding that any change would have to come out of Frankfort.

Gary Powell said the drug problem needs to be addressed by building a drug rehabilitation center to unload the jail and a larger jail to house federal inmates in order to secure federal money.   He also said, “We’ve got to get a hold of this landfill” and that there needs to be stricter regulations that need to be enforced.

Tom Hart said that the county’s highest priority needs to be the getting its arms around the budget, practicing fiscal oversight and transparency and working on the illegal drug problem.  He said the county could form a task force to work with local law agencies to address the problem.

Dwight Richardson said that getting finances in line, attracting people into the county to take advantage of existing small businesses and getting kids trained for a trade are some of his priorities.

Rhonda Childers also wants to prioritize the budget, and to seek out partnerships that value what the county has to offer.  She said she will not rest until the landfill is held responsible for the illegally dumped TENORM.

The second question to be asked, was, “What factors keep jobs out and how can we attract industry?”

Josh Lambert answered first.  He said he knows several companies wanting to move back in here but the taxes are too high.  He also said, “I don’t buy votes, I don’t give out liquor to get votes…do it the right way or don’t do it at all.”

Kevin Williams said that cleaning up the county and addressing the drug problem will help attract new business.  He explained that the rampant drug problem affects the local workforce negatively.  He feels there is great opportunity in tourism.

Jim Walters said the trash on roadsides causes people to want to turn around and leave, something he sometimes wants to do himself.  He said he’s been asking if a company were to move in here seeking to hire 300 people, could they find the work force to fill that need and most of the time the answer is no.

Gary Powell said that the county has a workforce, but 67 percent of them work outside of the county.  To draw industry here, the county needs better roads in and out and “something tax-wise.”

Tom Hart said that cleaning up the county will attract new businesses, that county ordinances and tax structures need to be looked at, and the county needs to aggressively market itself.

Dwight Richardson said small business and tourism should be grown, that inmates should help with the trash problem and students should have opportunity to learn a trade in vocational school.

Rhonda Childers said people speak of the county’s isolation, but what they need to realize is “what we are is a destination.” She said the county is beautiful already, but “we need to clean it up so that people can see it.” She also said the county can’t tax its way out of its financial problems, but must grow its way out.

Donnie Watson said that he doesn’t think the county will get a big factory, and he cited as his reason the difficulty of finding enough employees for it because of the drug problem.  “We prepared the way for industry when I was in office… We got the land, Carhartt has built on it, but nothing else has been done since I left office.

The third question said, “We don’t have a new justice center like those in Wolfe, Jackson and Garrard Counties…how would you address the lack of space in the courthouse?”

Kevin Williams said that preserving our present courthouse is the way to go…that judicial centers are nice, but “they are Taj Mahals, funded by the state.”  He added that to build one would change the downtown landscape and likely take 15 to 20 buildings out.

Jim Walters said that we keep coming back to the opioid crisis. “I don’t think we are going to legislate

this away.” He also said that he thinks it will require a cultural change of the mind, and the biggest asset [for doing so] is the parents. He also called on local pastors to step up as a community.

Gary Powell said he doesn’t think our county could afford a bigger center.  He said it would be nice to have a more efficient system, but he expects that will be years down the road. He also thinks it will takes lots of people working together.  Later on, if the county has lots of money, he would like to have one.

Tom Hart said he hadn’t really considered a new justice center, but he thinks it’s something the county could look into.

“How did the other counties find the money?” and “Where are you going to build it?” are questions he raised.

Dwight Richardson said he’s for fixing up the current courthouse if it’s serving the purpose.  He wasn’t in favor for the county taking on more debt.

Rhonda Childers said the county should explore options that they already have downtown and there are options not available to us before, with the use of technology.  She said she didn’t think it would be a high priority of hers to pursue a center.

Donnie Watson was also in favor of maintaining the current courthouse, and said, “If we solve our drug problem, we won’t need as much space in the courthouse. That’s where all the traffic comes from.”

Josh Lambert also recommended working on the drug problem.  He said the county needs to get the DEA working on it.  “We need to get our community straightened up.”

4) We live in a region where other communities are facing the same issues. What approach would you take to work with our region to address these issues?

Jim Walters said he would seek community involvement and welcome the input of “every person in this county. I will sit down with anybody that wants to come in my office and office a solution or a solution….  If it’s me, I hope that these gentlemen here will get in there with me…”

Gary Powell said there are a lot of people in the county that have the resources to help the county more than they are. He also said, “I don’t know how I ran the companies that I did…”  He thinks it’s because he asked God for wisdom and knowledge.

Tom Hart said that we’ve got a lot of talent, and “don’t have to reinvent the wheel…”  He recommended using others’ successful ideas, pulling in business leaders, and getting help that is available from the state.  “Put together a strategic plan and make it work,” he said.

Dwight Richardson said he would agree that it is a good idea to reach out to the state. He said he’s worked with the Bluegrass Area Development District quite often, and that they will do anything to try to help the community. 

Rhonda Childers said that any strategic plan has to include surrounding counties. She commented that in the past, the county has looked to Madison and Fayette Counties, but she suggested looking at rural counties with rural needs and forming partnerships with them.  She also pointed out that Estill County has many of the same attractions that draw people into the Red River Gorge from all over the world.

Donny Watson said when he was county judge, the county had the Estill Development Corporation, and the Estill County Industrial Development Corporation, as well as a solid waste committee.

“I didn’t act entirely on my own,” he said. “We tried to work with people all across the county.”

Josh Lambert said, “We need to work with Lee and Owsley County…everybody that we can. We all need to work together… and quit bickering…”

Kevin Williams said that there are a lot of concerned citizens and action groups that are already looking at the regional concept, which he said is “kind of where it’s at right now.”  He also said, “We’ve had big plans all along,” adding that it takes money.  Williams is hopeful that after getting the county’s house in order, “we’re going to get there.”

5) Estill County needs better access to Mountain Parkway. How would you go about seeking improvements on Highways 89 and 82 leading to Mountain Parkway?

Gary Powell said that the area needs better access to interstates or the county is not going to get much here.  He said that plans are already in the works for cutting across White Oak and Dry Branch, which would shorten the distance to the Mountain Parkway to only three or four miles, although it might be 10 years down the road before the project happens.

Tom Hart said it takes staying on top of it, staying in contact with state senators and representatives to make sure the project gets funded.

Dwight Richardson agreed that Hwy. 89 and 82 need some improvements, because there is a lot of truck traffic every day that is wearing down the roads.

Rhonda Childers also agreed that improved access to Mt. Parkway should be part of a long term or strategic plan, but said, “We need to be the driver of that project.”

Donny Watson said that [White Oak] was one of the proposals he took to Frankfort in Nov. 30, 1984.  He also thinks it’s “way down the road.”  He commented that there’s already good access to the industrial park from Hwy. 52. 

Josh Lambert thinks it would be a nice opportunity to see the road go through, and it would be safer to keep truckers off the roads.

Kevin Williams said he’d met with some representatives in Frankfort, and the Hwy. 89-and 82 intersection at Hudson Mill Rd. is in the six-year plan. He said there is “good things coming,” but it will take staying in touch with Frankfort.

Jim Walters said there’s “a good road going in [Hwy. 52]…and a good road coming out. If you don’t believe me, just go to Walmart with me and watch me campaign.”

6) We are all aware of the TENORM currently stored in our landfill.  What regulations would you put in place so that this doesn’t happen in the future? 

Tom Hart said that there is an agreed order between the landfill and the Energy and Environment Cabinet to install radiation monitors, which are already in place, and as part of the CAP, policies and procedures are in place already.

Dwight Richardson said he thinks the landfill needs to be closely monitored so that if there is anything illegal brought in, it is caught before it is unloaded. He also thinks a camera system should be set up, and files kept of what is brought in.

Rhonda Childers said that the TENORM issue remains unresolved, and if the landfill gets by with a “slap on the wrist,” she sees “no reason why they would think they should do ever do anything different.” She thinks the solid waste coordinator position and the community host agreement could serve the county well if “we put some teeth into it.”

Donnie Watson said that when he was in office, the landfill was monitored, had cameras, and kept up with the manifests. 

Joseph Lambert suggested more recycling to decrease the need for the use of the landfill. 

Kevin Williams noted that it may be years before litigation with the landfill can be resolved, and he’s willing to shut down the landfill to keep out the radioactive material if that’s what it takes. 

Jim Walters expressed distrust of the landfill liner to last, and said he thinks the county needs to “get the whole thing out of here.” He also posed the question, “Why do we have so much cancer in this community?”  and “Why such high insurance?”  He said outside organizations should be called on to investigate.

Gary Powell said he has a problem with allowing the landfill to monitor itself.  “If you let a thief put your door locks in, he’s going to get in,” Powell said. He thinks the county needs to weigh the cost of monitoring the landfill to see if it is actually worth it to the county, because he thinks the landfill is only worried about making money.

7) What do you think Estill County could do to get the Kentucky River Park project back on track?

Dwight Richardson said that because the park is in a remote area, widening the road was the best thing for it.  He suggested asking for volunteers to do some of the work, and he expressed concerns about vandalism if the county invested a lot in the park.

Rhonda Childers said the park is yet another example of a project getting off on the right foot, but then “we falter and don’t utilize to the fullest what we have to offer.”   She added that county government must seek and secure the funds that are available, and if the park is promoted and used regularly, it will sustain itself.

Donny Watson said he hadn’t been out there and couldn’t really give an answer about it.

Kevin Williams said he’s been on the phone recently to talk with Congressman Bar and others about grant monies. He said it’s a very beautiful location and is a great opportunity for camping, recreation on the river, as well as soccer and football.

Jim Walters said he had no comment on the park.

Gary Powell said he thinks the park has the potential to generate quite a bit of money, that he thinks camping is huge right now, and that there shouldn’t be a large boat ramp built there, but one just for canoes, etc., so that the park would appeal to campers and trail people. “Wildlife is abundant down there,” he said.

Tom Hart said he was not really familiar with the park, but it sounds like the county got started on the project but didn’t come up with a plan to keep it going.  He recommended stepping back to look at the issues such as vandalism and access then forming a plan to move forward.

8) Do you support merging the three local governments of Irvine, Ravenna, and Estill County?  Why or why not?

Rhonda Childers said there are pros and cons, but a huge pro is to think in terms of how the county could maximize resources.  “Whether we merge or not, our government must work together and remember we are working for the whole. 

Donny Watson said he is opposed to merging the local governments. 

Josh Lambert said that he thinks the county should stay in the county, and the city should stay in the city, that way they can keep all the paperwork straight and the government straight.

Kevin Williams said it’s been brought up over and over for years, and he thinks it’s something to keep discussing, but he doesn’t see anything happening in that direction for a few more years.

Jim Walters said he is noncommittal on the issue, but if there is some interest in a merger, a study ought to be done to find out the facts.

Gary Powell said right now there is no sense in the county asking Irvine or Ravenna to merge with them, as he asked, “What would we have to offer them?”  He did say it could work, and he thinks that sooner or later all three will come together.

Tom Hart said that from a business standpoint you can’t argue with a merger, adding that first the two cities have to come to terms that they can take better care of their citizens if they are merged, and that maybe they can combine with the county later. “It can’t help but be more efficient,” he said.

Dwight Richardson said he doesn’t think right now is the time, and he doesn’t think that what the city’s got to offer would help him, or what the county has to offer would help them at this point, but he expects it will happen on down the road.

Photo by Lisa Bicknell

Five candidates participated in the sheriff’s forum on March 29.  From left, they are Kevin Chaney, Terry Carroll, Teddy Hunt (standing), Chris Flynn, and Ken White.  Angela Osborne, in back, served as the forum moderator.

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

Candidates for Estill County sheriff were given the opportunity to introduce themselves on Thursday night during the second of a series of political forums being sponsored by the Estill County Public Library, the Estill Action Group, the Estill County School District, and Pickup Country 104.9, in partnership with several local media outlets.

Candidates were also asked several questions about their hopes and plans for their time in office, should they be elected.  The candidates each drew a question from those submitted earlier by citizens of the community, and each was given opportunity to answer all the questions.

Ken White was the first candidate to introduce himself. Among the qualifications that he listed is that he is a graduate of the police academy, has 25 years of law enforcement experience, 14 of which acquired as the Ravenna Police Chief.  He added that he has heard a lot of citizens’ concerns and complaints during the 20 years he has headed up the Toys for Tots program.

“I want to make this a safe community for your kids and mine,” he said.

In written comments submitted before the forum, White also said he wants everyone to feel comfortable in coming to the sheriff’s department with their complaints and concerns, so they can work together for a better Estill County.

“The public knows what is going on in their areas, and I am willing to take that information and hopefully reduce the crime rate and illegal drug usage,” he said. “There are still people who won’t report something, because they either don’t trust law enforcement or think nothing will be done.  I want to change that way of thinking, so everyone will feel that their problems will be taken seriously.”

White said that he’d like to maintain an open door policy.

“My sheriff’s department will be known for its dedication, honor and integrity,” he said.

Teddy Hunt introduced himself as the husband of Missy Brandenburg Hunt, and the father of four children, and an employee of IMU.  He said he served eight years with Winchester Fire Department and EMS, and he also successfully managed a construction business during that time, where he managed several employees and a budget.  He has served the community for 33 years in various organizations, including being a member of the fair board for 20 years, a volunteer fireman for 33 years, and a zone director for the Kentucky Association for Fairs and Horse Shows.  He discussed the possibility of running for sheriff ten years ago, but because his children were younger, decided to wait until a later time.

Hunt named the four main duties of a sheriff: serving the courts, tax collection, election duties, and “last but not least”-law enforcement. Hunt said he thinks sheriffs should be formally trained, as he himself was at EKU. Hunt served as police chief in Ravenna for three years, and he also served as a deputy under the current sheriff for one year.

One of Hunt’s greatest aspirations for the county is to eliminate the drug epidemic, to provide safer communities for families, and assist the school board and school resource officer (SRO) in providing a safe schooling for the children.

Because of funding shortfalls, Hunt sees the lack of manpower as one of his biggest obstacles to reaching his goal, but he said he will seek more funding through grants and other sources.

Chris Flynn introduced himself as the son of Glendle and Brenda Flynn, and as the husband of Ashley Watson Flynn.  They have two children.

Flynn served in the United States Marine Corp for eight years, where he reached the status of Staff Sergeant.  He also served as a Reconnaissance Marine.  Since Jan. 2013, he has operated Flynn’s Auto Service.

Flynn recited the Reconnaissance Creed and said the core set of values stated in the creed often provide guidance for his life and his business.  He said he would instill those same values in his deputies.

Flynn has always felt a call to serve, and he has wanted to be sheriff since he can remember.

In his written responses, Flynn said his main hope is to make the community a safer place for the citizens of the county.  He also said he wants people to walk into the sheriff’s office and feel that their concerns are taken seriously and that he and his staff are there to work for them.

He sees the communities main challenges as the current drug epidemic and the county’s current financial situation.

Flynn also outlined a crawl, walk, run plan.

“We can’t start sprinting on day one,” he said. During the crawl phase, he sees cutting unnecessary expenditures and instilling professionalism, leadership by example, and uniformity into the deputies to earn the county’s respect.

He would also like to organize neighborhood watch programs and assist in setting them up, and he thinks it is important to work with law enforcement in Irvine, Ravenna and the state to maximize resources.

Terry Carroll introduced himself as an employee of Lockhead Martin??? and a former deputy sheriff, where he says he gained valuable experience and knowledge of the job requirements, which included “serving warrants and testifying in murder trials.”

“Ninety percent of you here today will only need the sheriff’s office during tax collection,” he said, adding that the other 10 percent will need them for traffic accidents, thefts, robberies, etc.

“I will respond to emergency calls from the dispatch center,” he said, “and I will do whatever is possible to decelerate criminal activity in the county.”

Carroll promised to work to recover stolen items and to convict crimes against citizens.

He also said he’d patrol the community, that he’d maintain an open door policy, be approachable and hold conversations confidential.  He expressed a desire to increase rehabilitation services and said he’d like to see more occupational opportunities for those in recovery from drug addiction.   

Kevin J. Chaney introduced himself as someone who has been of public service to his community for 25 years.

“I spent over half my life telling people what Jesus Christ can do as your Savior, but right now I want to take a few minutes to tell you what I can do as your sheriff,” said Chaney, also a minister.

Chaney spoke of his concern for the safety of churches and schools in the community.  He said if elected, he would encourage every church to provide their address and service times, so his department can actively patrol and attempt to deter any criminal activity around them.

He also said he has offered his full support to the Board of Education, and his top priority would be the “safety of our children.”

“As soon as our county can afford it, I’ll be on the judge’s door knocking for the addition of another SRO,” said Chaney.

Chaney is also very concerned about the huge impact of drugs within the county, and said he has been visiting with local groups that work with addicts.  He said there are some addicts who don’t know where to turn.

“I will invite all those who want help to come to my office. I’ll be there for you,” he said.   

Following the introductions, each candidate drew a question which had been submitted and screened earlier by forum organizers. All candidates had opportunity to answer the question.

The first question was, “With the jail being closed, how do you see the prisoner transport issue affecting the duties of the sheriff’s office and how might you deal with it.”

Ken White answered that the jail has hired transport officers who do most of the transport, but on court days, the sheriff’s office helps out.  He said if the jail opens back up, that problem will take care of itself.

Teddy Hunt said he doesn’t think the change has affected the sheriff’s department as much as people think, and that the sheriff’s department is required to transport some inmates by law anyway.

Chris Flynn said he doesn’t think it will affect the sheriff’s office greatly and he thinks the judge’s new plan to transport inmates is going to save some money, but “if the jail needs help, I’m all about helping them.”

Terry Carroll said that transporting is a big part of the sheriff’s department’s job, with the only problem that some days courts are busier than others which can take sheriff and deputies out of the county for an extended period of time. Carroll said they would have to “make do with it” until they figure out what the county is going to do with the jail.

Kevin Chaney said when he was deputy sheriff, the jail was closed for a short time.  As far as interfering with deputies making arrests, it shouldn’t make much difference, although he acknowledged that it is an inconvenience and costs a lot for medications, emergency room visits and meals.

“Hopefully, the county will get turned around and we’ll get our jail opened back up,… but whatever’s needed is what we’ll have to do.”

2) What are three of the most important problems you want to prioritize?

Teddy Hunt said the safety of our children, the drug problem, and to eliminate crime are his priorities.

Christ Flynn said drug rehab programs, school safety, and trainings for sheriff and deputies are his priorities.

Terry Carroll listed combating drug activity, insuring school safety, and, one of his main priorities- “answering 911 calls, assistance calls, or just any question.”

Kevin Chaney said the safety of children in the schools, safety in the churches, and being more aggressive in combating the drug problem are some of his priorities.  He also wants to conduct sobriety checkpoints according to KSP protocol, in an effort to get people who should not be driving off the roads.

Ken White named the drug problem, which he said affects nearly every family, and the safety of children. He also said he would answer all calls.  “I want everybody to know we will take their concerns seriously.”

3) If elected how do you intend to recruit and retain deputies?

Chris Flynn answered that the department would have to give deputies incentives and provide them with trainings because “the big thing is all about them returning home to their families at the end of the day.”

Terry Carroll said he thinks it is important to hire deputies from in the county, because they know their way around and know most of the people in the county. He also said it might be hard to give incentives because of the county’s budget restraints, but the department would have to do the best they can until the budget is lined out.

Kevin Chaney said he would interview candidates for the job, and that being a deputy is not a job to “collect pay and just go home.”  He also would look for grants to help pay his deputies, and he would hire people who are willing to serve the people.

Ken White said he’d hire people who want to work and are going to apply commons sense in their duties, that he’d let them know that he appreciates them, and the sheriff’s department would have to work with the county judge to try to get them raises.

Teddy Hunt said recruitment would not be an issue, because he thinks there are several people who would love to work for the sheriff’s department, but that detention would be the problem.  He would try to find ways to fund the department better, such as obtaining grants, and he hopes the county would get out of financial trouble soon.

4) How would you handle someone’s request to do personal favors?

Terry Carroll: “It would be unethical. If you did it once, they’d be expecting it twice, so you can’t be doing that stuff.”

Kevin Chaney said that if a person asks for a personal favor to get out of trouble, “we’re not there for that,”  but if someone needs help, he’d definitely try to do them a favor.  “We’re not just here to bang heads and throw them in jail.”

Ken White said, “Everyone during my tenure will treated the same, No one will ever receive special treatment.”

Teddy Hunt, “Can’t pull favors for anyone, you do your job by the letter of the law…that’s all you can do.”

Chris Flynn said as a matter of professional pride and integrity, there would be no special favors…not even to family…”if you break the law you have to pay the price.”

5) Which of the sheriff’s duties is most important?  Tax collection, election duties, service to the courts or law enforcement?

Kevin Chaney said law enforcement would probably be one of the top duties.  “Tax collection is needed…the others are necessary, but if we can’t enforce the law, if we can’t protect our people, what else counts?”

Ken White said they are all important, but law enforcement is most important to “protect and serve the citizens and children.”

Teddy Hunt said the most important is law enforcement.

Chris Flynn agreed that law enforcement is most important and said that the sheriff’s office needs to be more proactive, that there needs to be more community policing, that officers should be in the parks to be better role models and leadership examples…and they should not just sit back and be reactive.

Terry Carroll said you can’t pull off the side of the road without seeing needles and drug paraphernalia, and it’s destroying our kids and our county.  “Yes, law enforcement is the most important,” he said.

6) What kind of law enforcement training have you received to date?

Ken White: I’ve had over 25 years law enforcement experience, graduated the police academy, and still receive extensive training every year…you also learn on the street, that every problem cannot be solved the same way.”

Teddy Hunt had basic training at EKU, four years experience in Ravenna, three of which were as police chief there.

Chris Flynn said, “None.”  But he spoke of receiving a call from a state trooper, also a former marine, who said that what he learned in the Marine Corp prepared him better than any training he had ever received. Flynn served eight years as a Marine.

Terry Carroll said he had “a little less than four years of on the job training…you don’t have to be certified in the state of Kentucky to be a sheriff.”

Kevin Chaney received four years of on the job training when he was a deputy, and he completed the academy training for bailiff.  He also said he was employed by the honorable Ms. Heather Combs, Commonwealth Attorney.  Chaney emphasized that the sheriff is “here to serve, and has to have the heart to see the need.”

7) How do you plan to help combat the overwhelming drug problem in the community?

Teddy Hunt said he will reach out to other agencies throughout the community and state, but it all falls back to funding.  He said that he will be active out in the community and out being seen.

Chris Flynn said training is a big over-lapse, that constables need to be trained, so that they could set up community citizens’ watches, because he thinks communities need more eyes and ears.  He also said it will take lots of work and some time to overcome the problem.

Terry Carroll said that he will work with the community to identify from where and whom the drug problem is coming.  He said if a judge assigns someone to rehab for 90 days, and they go in for two or three days and decide they don’t want to be there any more, their sentence shouldn’t be probated, that they should finish their sentence out.

Kevin Chaney said that criminals are pretty well intelligent and they understand risk vs. reward.

“If there’s little risk, but great reward, there is little to deter,” he said.  He also said he met with the clerk [at the courthouse] who said information could be provided to him from records to help find out where lots of drug activity is happening.

Ken White said he would assign a drug enforcement deputy to investigate all the drug tips.  He also said he’d like to set up a tip line and a website for information for people who don’t want to be seen talking to the police.  “Hopefully with being anonymous, they’ll give us more information.”

8) Why did you decide to file for the office of sheriff?

Chris Flynn joked that he was born in the sheriff’s office, because his father took office not long after he was born.

“I’ve always had a calling to serve people,” he said, adding that he considered running right out of high school, but he decided to go to the Marines instead.  Flynn said he wants to put his military training to good use to benefit the citizens of Estill County.

Terry Carroll also said it’s a lifelong dream, something he wanted to do as a child, and is also a calling for him to try to make a difference in the community.  “[It’s the only thing I’ve ever wanted to do in my life as well.”

Kevin Chaney said law enforcement “has always been a passion of mine.”  In his early 20s, he wanted to be a state police trooper, but he felt the time wasn’t right.

“I’ve always felt a strong desire to be sheriff here…I’m not wanting to better myself..but to better my community.”

Ken White said that law enforcement “has always been in my blood,” and he likes to take care of people.  “I actually care about people, and I want to help them,” he said. He also said he has two grandchildren growing up in the community, and he wants to make sure they and others are safe and able to enjoy life.

Teddy Hunt said he and his wife talked over the possibility of him running for sheriff ten years ago, but they decided to wait because their kids were all in school, and he realized that the job would probably require him to work 60 hours a day.

Russell “Doc” Morris is also a candidate for sheriff, but he was not present at the forum, having just lost a son, Russell Morris III, last weekend.  Morris will be given the opportunity to participate in a later forum.

Angela Oldfield Osbourne was the moderator of Thursday night’s forum, and Susan Hawkins was the timekeeper.

There will be no forum this week, but the next forum will feature those seeking the offices of county court clerk and circuit court clerk.  It will take place on April 12 at 6 p.m. at the high school auditorium.

Drivers urged to be cautious, FEMA to help fund repairs but it might be weeks

Photos by Lisa Bicknell

Breaks in the road such as the one at right on Doe Creek are creating problems for drivers.  In some places, traffic can only travel one lane.   One resident of the area said she was worried the road would slide into the river which runs parallel in that section of roadway.

Crews are attempting to patch and level surfaces until a more permanent repair can be made.

Below, efforts are being made to repair a slump on Wagersville Rd.

HB Elkins with the State Transportation Cabinet, said work is scheduled to begin on the breaks at Doe Creek in a couple of weeks.  The repairs will be funded in part by FEMA. A section of Red Lick Rd. is particularly bad, but it might be a month before work starts there, Elkins said.

Photo by Lisa Bicknell

One little girl had to have a boost from Girl Scout Troop Leader Emma Day so she could shake the hands of magistrates and the judge.

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

In his judge’s address on Monday night during the Estill County fiscal court meeting, Judge-executive Kevin Williams reported that the jail transport plan is working to save the county money.  Because of these savings, he believes the county will be safe to budget $900,000 for housing and transporting inmates for fiscal year 2018-19.

So far this year, the county has spent $1,117,000 on housing and transporting inmates, with May and June still to go.

Williams expressed appreciation for the jailer and the transport officers for being “great to work with,” as well as the magistrates, for their help in hammering out a contract with Lee county to house all inmates from Estill County, both male and female, at a cost of about $32 per inmate.

Williams said that it would take “hundreds and thousands” to get the jail going again, even if repairs required by the state were made and that it is effectively a closed jail.

There are now three full-time jail transport employees, down from nine at one time, and a pool of part-time employees, with two or three typically working at a time, at a savings of about $4,500 every two weeks. Besides that, Williams said, the county is saving on utilities, water, electric, and gas.  He also said that the new transport van is being used frequently.  It had 2,000 miles on it when he took office, and now has about 13,000.

“This is working,” said Judge Williams, who added that the transport officers are utilizing a new reporting system so that everything is logged, and purchase orders are being handled differently.

In the county attorney’s report, Rodney Davis said that Judge Michael Dean has ruled as the county requested, holding the Kevin and Rebecca Moes in contempt of court for blocking Mt. Springs Rd. Each will be fined $500 each, or serve 10 days in jail, contingent on paying the fine.

Girls Scout Troops 661 and 144 attended the meeting and were recognized for the many ways they contribute service to the community.

“They are a real benefit and a real asset to the county,” Judge Williams said. Each scout was presented a certificate and a handshake from each of the magistrates and the judge.

Joe Crawford, Estill Development Alliance director, presented a report to the fiscal court.  He said it is “a big deal,” that some of Estill County has been designated an Opportunity Zone.  He also said it is yet to be determined how the Economic Development Cabinet will make the new capital available for further development in Estill County.

Crawford reported that work to remove asbestos from the Mack Theater is underway, and the next step will be to hire a structural engineer.  After the Theater is structurally sound, the building’s electric and plumbing will have to be brought up to code.

He also said that planning continues for Moonlight Market, scheduled to happen on six Friday evenings throughout the warm months, the first event being on May 11. The events will feature vendors, live music, arts, demonstrations, and other activities for all age groups.

Signs are being ordered this week to install for Trail Town, Crawford said, and hopes are that a trial Trail Town event can be held soon.

Judge Williams said he wanted to clarify that the theater space will be used more as an arts and cultural center, and that it will “be awhile” before movies could be shown.

The county will be meeting with Bluegrass ADD and discussing the next round of funding for the Mack Theater and will be applying for a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant.

Magistrate Marty Snowden, asked if the original theater held more people, and Crawford said it would hold less than 300, which would be fewer seats than it once had.

The county continues to check into the market for some surplus tanks currently stored at the site of the proposed biofuel plant.

Judge Williams said he’d like to have a preview day where people can walk in and look at the equipment, then the court could decide whether to take sealed bids or have a public auction.

In new business, sealed bids were opened for some surplus items.

A bid of $1,037 came in from Tyler Noland for a 2000 Chevy S-10 4×4 (the old animal shelter truck). Dale Clark made a bid of $800 for the same truck.  The court accepted the highest bid.

A bid of $4,500 came from Richard Hamblin for a 1999 Freightliner box truck.  Clark bid $3,500, but the court voted to reject both bids, because they thought the truck was worth more.

A bid of $7,700 was made by Tyler Noland for the 1996 Ford dump truck (with a broken frame). A second bid was opened for the amount of $3,500, but the court voted to accept the high bid.

Ronnie Riddell, CSEPP director, explained the items on the agenda listed for permission to advertise.  Requests were made for funds for yearly siren maintenance, the microwave modification project, and the replacement of generators.  The court approved, as Judge Williams explained the projects are 100 percent funded by federal dollars. The court also voted to give permission to purchase radios.   Williams said that was almost $300,000 coming into the county, which he said is a good thing.

In other business, the appointment of Industrial Development Authority board members was put off to the next meeting. Williams said he would like to “rebrand” the board with the court’s permission, and perhaps call it the Estill County Economic Authority.

Williams said he is passionate about getting the Kentucky River Park developed further and he has met with Scott Jones to discuss a scaled down version of park plans.  Williams hopes a campground can soon be open for travel ball teams and their families, etc.

Susan Starling was reappointed to the Health Department Board of Health Taxing District.

The fiscal court continues to chip away at unpaid claims to Hinkle, for jail expenses, and to “Hollerwood,” with the goal of paying them all by June 30.

The fiscal court will have a special called meeting, on May 17, at 4:30 p.m. The regular meeting time was changed to accommodate the upcoming election schedule.

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

Fire spread to the top of the mountain behind Broadway on Saturday evening after escaping a backyard on North Madison in Irvine.  The fire swept through approximately 100 acres, according to Irvine Fire Chief Tony Murphy.

Murphy said that flames burned high and looked like a “California wildfire,” as they spread up the mountain behind Irvine on Saturday evening, leaving a ring of fire visible around the mountain from miles away.   

As many as 17 homes were threatened by the flames.  Murphy said some siding melted on two of the houses, but no one was hurt.

Irvine fire fighter Chad Neal said it appears someone was burning trash on North Madison Avenue on Saturday afternoon, and left the fire unattended.  The wind picked up the flames, which spread to a thicket growing around an old garage.

The thicket went up in flames quickly, and the garage burned, as well as an older pick-up truck.

About 100 acres of woodland eventually were burned, as a stiff breeze caused the fire to spread quickly.

Murphy said his department used more than 4,000 feet of hose as they battled the flames.  Estill, Ravenna, and Hargett Fire Departments responded to the fire, as well as the Division of Forestry.

The fire was under control by 1:30 on Sunday morning, but Murphy said he was glad to see the rain on Monday.

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

Photo by Lisa Bicknell

From left, candidates for Magistrate of district 1: Joe Crawford, Roy Embs and Mike Abney.

The fourth forum featuring local candidates for office was held on Thursday night at the high school.

During the forum, candidates for Magistrate of the three districts had opportunity to introduce themselves and answer a few questions.

Brianna Palmer, captain of the Mock Trial Team at EKU and an intern with Davis Law in Richmond, conducted the forum.

Candidates for Magistrate, District 1 were called to the stage first.

Robert O’Neil Sanders was randomly selected to be the first to speak.  He said that although he is not from here, he has been here for 29 years.  He stated that he didn’t have anything else to do, and there is a lot to be done.  “I have some good ideas, and I think I can be a positive influence on who I work for and who I work with,” he said.   Sanders also said he has experience in construction, contract management and engineering, and he has worked with the federal government, Coast Guard and the US Army.

Mike Abney said he has lived in Estill County all his life and has owned and operated Abney Auto Sales for 36 years. His son is now a partner with him, which he said will allow him more time for being a magistrate. When asked why he wanted the stress and headaches of the public office, he said he’s learned how important it is to be involved.

Abney spoke of the positive changes he has seen in Estill County, including the new restaurants and businesses downtown, and said he’s encouraged to see young adults and older ones with a new interest and enthusiasm working hard for new growth.

He said that the beauty of living here, where people come together to comfort and support, can’t be beat.  He does see a need to stimulate growth and keep the county’s youth here,  while utilizing the county’s natural resources. Funding is needed, which he says will take “digging in, researching, and staying in touch with elected officials.”

Abney also stressed that balancing the budget is important, and said, “You can’t spend money you don’t have.”

Roy Embs was the next of the magistrate candidates to speak. He said he’s lived in the county all his life, and he worked for the railroad for 20 years.  He also served as a water commissioner for 12 years, where he helped oversee the installation of three water projects out in the county.

Of the magistrates and judges, Embs said he can “work with everyone.” He said there is a lot of stuff he’d like to see why it’s like it is now and he’d like to work on some changes.  He also said he would “try to get a balanced budget and keep it that way.”

Joe Crawford was called.  He said he was born and raised in the county, and he was taught by his family to value hard work and to know right from wrong.  He studied economics at EKU and diplomacy at UK.  He has worked for the Estill Development Alliance for the past 13 years, where he has helped get started such programs as Leadership LEAP, the Estill Action Group, the River City Players, and the Estill County Chamber of Commerce.

Crawford called himself “the worst politician you’re ever gonna meet,” because, he said, “I really don’t care for partisan politics or politics in general.” He thinks it gets in the way of getting things done.

He is also willing to make the decisions that “might make somebody mad.”

He believes in the “inherent greatness” of our community, as is evidenced by the support of the community when the boys basketball team made it to Rupp.

“I believe in a transparent, open and engaged local government,” Crawford said.  He also said he thinks public meetings should be videoed and put online.

Crawford said, “We have to focus on quality of life issues to keep young families here.”

The candidates for District 1 each drew a written question and had opportunity to answer it.

Robert Sanders was asked why he decided to run, and he answered with a laugh that he was “unemployed and looking for a good job.”  But his serious reply was that he is concerned about the population of Estill County.  He said he worked around the east coast, building restaurants and shopping centers. He then came back to Estill County, where he noticed that many people are desperately looking for a job, but there are “none to be had,” so people have to go to surrounding communities. Sanders said he has an idea for developing property for a factory, but he said it will take people coming together to make it happen.

Mike Abney drew the question, “What are your feelings about the landfill?”

He replied that he thought it should never have been here in the first place, but it is, so it really needs to be watched closely. He said that the worst thing about it is that is across from the schools, and that it needs to be watched to keep out “the stuff that we don’t want in there.”

Roy Embs was asked, “What is the one thing you would like to see happening in Estill County?”

Embs said he’d like to see more businesses come into the county, and he would work with the judges to balance the budget. Embs also said that he agrees with Abney on the landfill.

“The main thing is to get in there and balance the budget,” he said.

Joe Crawford selected this question: “In your opinion, what makes you the best candidate for the people who live in your district?”

Crawford said he has pertinent experience with community issues and economic development, and he has been involved at the state and federal level with some of local projects.   In doing so, he has made connections with people at both the state and federal level that would be beneficial to him as magistrate.

“I’m already involved, and I want to be more involved,” he said.

The District 2 candidates were then called to the stage, and Earl Young, Jr. was chosen to introduce himself first.

Young said he has lived in the county for 50 years, and for at least 40 years in the district.  He worked for Bundy Tubing for 22 years, where he was a group leader for 20 years.  He was also the vice president of the union for nine years.  For 20 years, he served with the Estill County and Irvine Road Departments.

Young reminded that he has four previous years’ magistrate experience, during which he worked hard.  He said it was a learning experience, and he put in 160 hours of trainings and went to a lot of meetings.  He said he’d like to put that knowledge to use again.

Young would also like to see the county “standing on our own feet.” He thinks there are enough honest and good fair people to make it work.  He’d like to see work come in, but says the county needs good roads.

“I promise one thing, if I get elected you’ll have fair and honest government as far as my concern,” Young said.

Bill Eldridge introduced himself as currently serving as magistrate, and said he was appointed to the position.  Eldridge said it’s a great job, but it’s “whatever you want to make of it.”

He said that he left the county and went to Florida to work for a while, but couldn’t wait to get back home.  “This is my home, I love it here,” he said.

He got a job with the county, and said “there is no better feeling that to go help someone,” even if it’s just fixing a pot hole.  Eldridge said he will give the job 100 percent, and he promised to be there for anyone who calls.

He also said he works for the people, and he wants a better place for the kids.  He said he likes to listen and think everything through before making a decision, which he makes based on if it’s good for the county.

Paul Tipton has lived in Estill County all his life. He introduced himself as an employee of IMU for 25 years, 15 of which he was the outside manager, laying water and sewer lines, and working on culverts, roads, and maintaining equipment.  “We need more jobs,”  he said, adding that those who drive out of county for work often spend their money out of town.

“We need a factory,” he also said, adding that since 1994, the county has lost 1,000 people.  He said that jobs will bring people back and will bring a better fire department and law enforcement.

He also thinks a park and someone to monitor it will help give young people something to do and a reason to stay out of trouble.

Each month, he’ll publish his phone number in the paper.  “I’ll do what’s right for the entire county, not just one district, but for all,” Tipton said.

Keith Bradley said he runs a business here in town, has lived and worked in Estill County most of his life. Bradley has served on the volunteer fire department, as well as the rescue squad and as an EMT.

He said if elected,  he’d like to invite everyone to the meetings to get their input. He spoke of how bad the roads are at this time, and said he’d be willing to go to Frankfort to get grants.

“I do want to see more jobs,” he added, and said that is why he chose to start a business here, to provide himself and others more jobs.

In the Q and A session, Earl Young was asked how he planned to make himself available to the public.

Young said he would post his phone number or his cell number for anybody to call, and if at all possible, he would be there night or day if someone needed something.

Bill Eldridge was asked, “Based on the conversations with voters that you’ve had, what is the biggest challenge facing the magistrates?

Eldridge said the roads are one of the biggest issues, that he has had someone call and say they can’t keep ball joints in their vehicle.  Eldridge is concerned about safety, particularly of school buses.  He said the money has been there[to repair roads] for a year and a half, but they just haven’t used it.

Paul Tipton was asked, What do you see is the answer to our county’s financial woes at this time?

Tipton joked, “We need someone to win the lottery.” He also said, “We need to bring more jobs back into the county and get people moving back in.” He explained how he thinks bringing more money back into the county will result in more to spend on the roads, on the jail, and police and fire protection.

“Everything depends on the budget, if there’s no money in the county, you can’t have a budget.”

Keith Bradley was asked, “When people complain about paying local taxes, how do you plan to address this issue with them?”

Bradley said that if they complain about it, he would tell them that he has to pay taxes same as everyone else, and it’s the only way to get things done such as taking care of the roads for our school buses.   “It’s hard to do anything without the taxes,” said Bradley.    

Magistrates for District 3 were then called to the podium.

Douglas Dooley was the first of those to speak. Dooley said his hope is that everyone will come together to make the necessary adjustments needed to form a better foundation for the county.  He sees opportunity here, and said he’d like to give back to the community that has given so much to him.  His work experience includes working for Bundy Tubing for 15 years at various facilities, where he was promoted from production operator to acting supervisor over the years.  He said he had to find part time work at one time during an economic downturn when he was laid off, and he went to work for Wigg and Judy Wolfinbarger, and they taught him a lot.  He also worked for Johnny French for an excavating and tank service where he learned how to operate heavy equipment and basic diesel mechanics.  Eventually, he ended up working for his in-laws at Marcums Auto Sales.  In all his jobs, he said, he gained experience in working beside a team.

Gary Robinson introduced himself next.  He’s a graduate of ECHS in 1981, and has been self employed as a painter and a general contractor for almost 30 years. Robinson said he was a member of the United States Navy, a member of the Kiwanis Club, and a member of the golf club where he is serving as vice president of the board for his second three year term.

He has coached and volunteered for his kids’ school activities and sports.  He listed some of the problems facing the county, but also spoke of some of the positives.  He said there is a lot of good things going on.  He spoke of the county’s natural beauty, and said he visited the Kentucky River Park last week.  “I can’t think of a more beautiful place to go for a walk or go watch your kids sporting events,” he said.

“I don’t have all the answers, but I am willing to work with others to solve problems,” he said.

Gerry Flannery was next to speak.  He named several duties of the fiscal court, which include appropriation of funds and maintaining all roads.  “I have traveled a lot of roads and many of them are in dire need of repair,” said Flannery.  He said, if elected, he would be available to take calls, and that his number is in the book.  He also said that being a magistrate is a full-time job, and that he is retired from Jackson Energy and has the time to devote to the job.  He spoke of the importance of services to keep people in the county safe, including 911, fire, rescue, and ambulance.  Flannery said he would work with other magistrates and the judge, and would work to bring more jobs in.  “Because of the road problems,” he said, “a lot of companies won’t come in.”

Holden Hardy introduced himself.  He said he was born and raised in Estill County and lived in District 3 all his life.  He said that growing up, he had great role models who taught him hard work, honesty and respect.  He has three daughters, and he hopes they grow up to love the county as much as he does. Hardy said he has worked for the fiscal court and as a bailiff, as well as a CDL driver for the road department.  If elected, Hardy said, “I will not be idle. I will work and do my best for the people of this county…it will be a privilege to serve.”

Melvin Fields was the last of the candidates to speak.  Fields thanked God to be there, and said without Him he’d be nothing.  He said he has farmed for half his life and now works in Lexington. “I love my county, but I want to get back home,” he said.  Fields was raised on Red Lick and has lived at South Irvine for 25 years.  He’s not afraid of hard work, and not afraid to get his hands dirty.  He said if anybody has a problem to call him.

“I want to be your magistrate 24/7, seven days a week,”  he said. He also said when he “takes that problem on, it’s no more your problem, but my problem.”

Doug Dooley was then asked, “What makes you feel most proud about living in Estill County?”

“It’s just a good place to live, and I just want to try to make it better for everybody,” said Dooley.

Gary Robinson was asked, “In your opinion, what are the most important skills or qualities for a magistrate to possess?”

He replied, “Balancing the budget, dealing with people, making good decisions, working hard, and doing what you say you will do.”

Gerry Flannery’s question was, “What solutions would you recommend for all of the trash along our road sides, in our streams and rivers?”

Flannery said much of the garbage comes off trucks heading to the landfill. Although he thinks it would be hard to write them all a ticket, he thinks they should be cited.  He also said a lot of stuff comes from upstream in the eastern part of the state and that it would be hard to stop it.

Holden Hardy was asked, “What kind of involvement have you had in county government or community service in the past?”

Hardy said he served as bailiff for the Estill County Sheriff’s Department and has worked for the road department, so he has seen all the issues with the roads that all the other candidates have been talking about lately.

Melvin Fields was asked, “How do you feel about city and county government merging into one governmental body?”

Fields replied, “I don’t think they will right now, because Estill County’s broke. Why would you want to bring another city into a county that is broke?”

The last of the Estill County Candidate Forums will be Thursday, May 3, from 6 to 8 at the high school auditorium.  Forum Five will feature candidates for mayor, constable, and jailer. The forum is free and open to the public.

Lindsey Isfort and Jericho Puckett, above, were crowned prom queen and king.  (Photo submitted.)  

Photo by Lisa  Bicknell

Dog Tick Farm, at McIntosh Hollow on Pitt’s Rd., will be the site of a retired railroad employees’ gathering on Saturday, May 19.  Donald McIntosh, “Dog Tick,” is quite the gardener as is evident in the top photo.  The cold wet spring didn’t stop him from raising an impressive bed of lettuce and onions.

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

Dog Tick’s Railroad Reunion began in 2006 as a simple affair with Eva Lou McIntosh cooking up sausage and biscuits for a couple of dozen retired railroaders.

Now in its 12^th year, the size of the crowd-and the meal-just keeps growing as railroad retirees gather from Louisville, Hazard, and Jackson.

Donald McIntosh worked for the railroad for more than 40 years, when it was both L&N and CSX. He and his wife Eva Lou moved to “McIntosh holler” in the 80’s, where they built a welcoming cabin and filled the scenic little valley with vegetable gardens and apple and peach orchards.

Donald, or “Dog Tick,” as he is known to his friends, loves to garden, and he tends everything from a rhubarb patch to a patch of horseradish from which he makes homemade horseradish sauce.

He’s generous with what he raises, too, and many friends and family members are beneficiaries of the produce he grows.

Besides the railroad reunion, the McIntoshes now host the McIntosh family reunion and Eva Lou’s Fielder cousins every year.  They also host numerous other cookouts and get-togethers.

Photo by Lisa Bicknell

Pictured from left: Joe Crawford, Chris Harpole, Sandy Dunahoo, Shantel Davis, Chris Campbell, Erik Hendrickson, and Kevin Williams.

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

The air was steamy, but the air electric as hundreds gathered at the Ravenna Veteran’s Memorial Park on Saturday afternoon for an announcement that is expected to bring economic revival to the area.

Officials with Kentucky Steam Heritage Corporation(KSHC), a non-profit rail preservation group, said they are in the process of purchasing nearly 50 acres of property from CSX Transportation.  The retired Ravenna Car Shop located on that property will be repurposed as a rail-based tourist attraction and community development center.

The car shop has been closed for several years, but it will be re-opened to restore, preserve and display train engines and other pieces of railroad history.

Plans are to eventually bring Chesapeake and Ohio Steam Locomotive 2716 to town, and it will serve as the first restoration project.

The yard office, once the old freight depot, will be the site of a museum of sorts, but Chris Campbell, president of KSHC, says it will be much more than that.

“The Kentucky Rail Heritage Center will be a destination where people can experience the operation of historic rail equipment, take their dog for a walk, and get a bite to eat at a local restaurant, all on the same visit,” he said in a press release.  “We can’t thank CSX enough for providing the opportunity to creatively infuse the local and regional economy.”

He also said it will be the first time in more than a century that the property has changed hands.

Several officials spoke at the announcement ceremony, including Congressman Andy Barr.

“Ravenna’s railroad history is one to be recognized and celebrated, as it brought tremendous economic growth to Estill County,” he said.

“We’ll remember this day for a long time, I promise you,” said Estill County Judge-executive Kevin Williams.

When Estill Development Alliance Director Joe Crawford stepped to the podium, he said it was “a wonderful day to be in Ravenna and Estill County.”

“Today we stand in reverence to the CSX Corporation…for the dinners on the table…the kids in school..the house payments they’ve helped make,” he said.

Shantel Davis, vice-president of real estate and facilities for CSX, announced that CSX has also donated to the center a historic 1969 caboose, used on freight trains until last year.

Senator Mitch McConnell sent a letter, calling the development “an important step toward preserving the unique culture of our Commonwealth.”

“Visitors to this facility will have the chance to learn about the vital rail lines that have helped Kentucky fuel American prosperity for generations.”

Not only will the center provide a history lesson for interested parties, but KSHC plans to partner with the Estill County School system to establish a technical skills training component where vocational students can “practice modern trades on historic equipment.”

Students will learn skills such as welding and pipe fitting, which can be widely applied in other settings.

According to a press release from KHSC, CSX has been working with the non-profit and local community leaders for more than a year on the endeavor.

The project will, of course, cost a lot of money. Funds will be needed to improve the buildings and track on the rail yard grounds.

Vice-president of KHSC Chris Harpole said, “Fundraising is our first and most important aim.”

“Without significant investment, this will take time to get going.  But, with proper funding, we envision being up and running by late 2018.”

He said the group hopes to raise $300,000 in the first three months of the project, and $500,000 by year’s end. Contributions will help provide matching funds for federally-funded ARC grants.

KSHC’s long term vision for attracting visitors to the multi-use campus also includes providing the community with a meeting and event space and offering rail excursions within the yard.

CSX will continue to own and operate the main track line that runs closest to River Drive.

Photo by Lisa Bicknell

Tinkerbell is the lone Nigerian goat in a farm full of Nubians, but she’s the one who gets to eat oatmeal creme pies and animal crackers.

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

Slate Woods Farm in the Trapp area of Clark County is a tidy little goat commune tucked beneath some shade trees.

It was hot and humid the day I visited the farm with Robyn Arvin, who was looking to acquire a young billy goat.

The goats mostly peered at us from the shade of the small sheds scattered around the property of Kathy and Terry Jones. Separated into fenced lots containing the nannies (or does), the bucks (or billies), and the kids, the “kids” called for their “maa-a-ma” frequently.

It’s likely they are calling for Kathy, who has been raising Nubian goats for 25 years, not their biological mothers.

She still has the daughter of one of the first goats she acquired all those years ago.  At any given time, she has three or four generations of the Nubians on her farm.

When they are retired as breeding stock, she keeps them until they die.  “They give me their life, so I give them mine,” said Kathy.

Most of her goats have a name, and if they do, she likely remembers it.

Of all the goats on the farm, one kid on the block looks a little different.  It’s Tinkerbell, the lone Nigerian goat among the herd.  She’s the resident “house goat” who likes to watch TV and eat oatmeal creme pies and animal crackers.

So far, it’s been a great year for kids to be born on Slate Woods Farm.

Kathy says her 23 does birthed 60 kids this spring.  They often came in multiples: twins, triplets, even two sets of quads and one set of quintuplets.  Only eight of those kids are left, and one of those goes home with Robyn when we leave.

Kathy has been working with goats so long, she’s developed a breeding system down to an exact science.

The goats are artificially inseminated so Kathy knows almost to the day when they are due to give birth.  Sometimes she induces their labor, so she can pinpoint down to the hour when the babies will arrive.  Timing is everything when it’s very cold outside.

Once the kids are birthed, they are removed from their mothers. Kathy milks all the mamas by hand, then she will bottle feed the same kids the same milk she just got from the mother.

This process is one breeders use to prevent the development of caprine arthritic encephalitis.

This process is obviously a lot of work, so Kathy’s day begins at four every morning.  She feeds the babies first from the milk she milked the previous night, and around 5:30, she begins milking the goats for the next feeding.  The babies get fed three times a day, and the mamas are milked twice a day.

By the time Kathy washes up all her equipment, it’s time to begin the whole process again.

Kathy’s goats are such good milkers, that she has extra to sell for animal consumption or to crafters. She’s had dog breeders buy it for puppies, a horse owner buy it for a foal, and some folks purchase it for their own goats or sheep.  She also makes goat milk soaps and lotions.

Not only does Kathy raise registered livestock, she raises meat chickens and sells eggs.  The chickens are processed in a USDA facility and are also for sale.

Kathy is generous with her knowledge of goats and their care. She teaches goat education classes through extension offices and university programs and she’s eager to answer any questions that beginning breeders have.

“I have learned a tremendous amount from Kathy,” said Robyn. “She is always available to answer any questions, large or small.”

Robin met Kathy through another local goat breeder, Diane Johnson of Creek Bank farms.

Both Robyn and Johnson live on Jake’s Heavenly Hwy., and they are among the growing number of farmers who raise goats to sell as breeding stock, as meat, and to milk. Both create valued-added products made from extra milk, and they sell milk for animal consumption as well.

The information Robyn has learned from Kathy came in handy over the weekend, when twins were being born, and one was presented abnormally during labor.

“If I had not taken the class from Kathy, I would not have been able to save it,” said Robyn.

Cutline: Robyn Enright, a customer from Estill County, chooses a young billy from this year’s kids.

Because of the threat of rain, this year’s graduation ceremony took place inside the Estill County High School gym.

As seniors lined up outside before entering the gymnasium, they released green balloons in honor of Russell Morris III, a student in the class of 2018 who lost his life earlier this year.  A moment of silence was also observed for Russell during the ceremony.  His parents accepted his diploma.

“While most parents watched as their children got ready for graduation and helped them with their cap and gowns, we received Russell’s with his diploma,” wrote Letisha Willis Morris, Russell’s step-mom on her Facebook wall.  “I was so proud of the Class of 2018. Thank you so much for remembering our son and your classmate, Russell Morris III,” Morris said.

Photos by Lisa Bicknell

Jackson Energy employees and members of the Four Seasons Garden Club installed pavers, weeded, mulched and planted more flowers in West Irvine Elementary’s Monarch Waystation on Friday.

Four Seasons Garden Club and Jackson Energy employees revamp Monarch Waystation

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

Members of the Four Seasons Garden Club and Jackson Energy Cooperative employees arrived at West Irvine Elementary bright and early Friday morning to tackle a Beautify the Bluegrass project.

The Monarch Waystation built by the Four Seasons Garden Club on the school grounds was the beneficiary of help from Jackson Energy’s employees.

Beautify the Bluegrass is a state-wide partnership between Governor Matt Bevin, Kentucky’s electric cooperatives, and Kentucky Living magazine.  The initiative is in its second year.

The co-ops choose different projects, and one will be selected in August to have a barbecue meal with Governor Bevin.  Kentuckians can choose from among ten nominees on KentuckyLiving.com to determine the four finalists.  Governor Bevin will announce the winner of the Beautify the Bluegrass contest at the Kentucky State Fair on August 23.

Not only is the Monarch Waystation at West Irvine Elementary a haven for Monarch butterflies and a
“Beautify” project, to Francine Bonny, member of the Four Seasons Garden Club, the Monarch Waystation is an effective outdoor classroom.

She remembers working in the flower garden one afternoon when she noticed some little girls sitting in the grass watching club members work.

When Bonny asked if they’d like to help, the girls were eager to pitch in. Francine explained to them the difference in the weeds and the desirable plants, as well as some of their benefits.  After recess was over, the girls were reluctant to go back inside.  One of the little girls told Bonny it “was the best day of school we’ve ever had.”

Teachers also use the Monarch Waystation as a teaching opportunity.  Sometimes they take the chrysalis into the classrooms so students can watch the butterflies emerge.

The Waystation is a green oasis of annual and perennial plants and shrubs on the school grounds. Native milkweed is among those plants, and it is crucial for the development of the Monarch butterfly.

The plot not only nurtures butterflies, but pollinators such as birds and bees are attracted to it.

The work crew, consisting of one Estill County employee and others from Lee County, pulled weeds, applied mulch and arrangedpaver stones.  Jackson Energy also donated $500 to the club for purchasing needed materials for the project.

There is a larger picture at stake here than the contest though. The presence of Monarchs is an indication of the health of their local environment, Bonny explained.

Some common threats to the Monarch are that milkweeds (their main food source) are often mown.  The use of pesticides and herbicides also threatens them.

Bonny said she would like to think that dozens, at least, of the Monarchs hatched in the garden on the school grounds are among those which will eventually migrate to Mexico.

Cutline: On Friday, members of the Four Seasons club had the help of several Jackson Energy’s employees with weeding, mulching and planting at the Monarch Waystation at West Irvine Elementary.

Photo by Lisa Bicknell

One young patient gets a free eye exam on opening day of ‘Operation Bobcat.’ The military clinic is offering free medical screenings through June 24th at the Estill County High School.

By LISA BICKNELL

CV&T News Editor

Operation Bobcat, a military-sponsored medical clinic, opened last Friday at the Estill County High School to begin a ten-day session of voluntarily meeting the community’s medical needs.

Forty-one personnel from the U.S. Navy Reserve and the Air Force National Guard, many of them doctors, dentists and optometrists, make up the staff of Operation Bobcat.

The clinic offers free dental and eye screenings, as well as other general health screenings.  Clinics are also operating simultaneously in Lee, Breathitt and Owsley Counties.

Sandra Dunahoo, Commissioner of the Department for Local Government which is co-sponsoring the clinics, said they are full-fledged military maneuvers designed to help troops be prepared in the event of a conflict or natural disaster.

At one time, the military would deploy to other countries for training exercises, but during the Clinton administration, they began to realize the need for such trainings within the country’s own borders.

The first clinic in Kentucky was in the Paducah area, and nearly 13,000 patient contacts were made during that time.  The estimated economic impact of the clinic there was $1.5 million, but the experience was “invaluable to the military,” said Dunahoo.

“That convinced me to make it happen as often as we can,” said Dunahoo.

Not only does the community receive benefits, but troops have many opportunities to hone field operations and logistics skills, as they move into areas to which they are not familiar.

Personnel are 100 percent self-sufficient, Dunahoo said, bringing their own equipment, supplies, and pharmaceuticals (no narcotics).

The troops sleep on site and prepare their own meals on site.

To be selected as a clinic site, there is a “very competitive application” for communities applying to host the clinics.

Some of the free medical services being provided are very general medical screenings and sports physicals.  If a serious problem is detected, patients are referred to local doctors or agencies.

Patients can walk in for dental cleanings, fillings and extractions.  Optometry services include vision screenings and prescription eyeglasses (single lens only).  Glasses can be picked up the day following the exam.

Jennifer Lee, Jacob Lee, Jocelyn Lee and Jessica Lee were among those awaiting their turn to get their eyes checked at the clinic on opening day.

Jessica Lee said she was instrumental in bringing the program to Estill County because she helped file the application in 2016 to get the clinic here when she was employed in the governor’s office.

She had seen first-hand what clinics provide to communities and wanted that service available here.

“You can’t put a value on being able to help,” said Lee.