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 ©Copyright, 2012
Cumberland Co. News
412 Courthouse Square
P.O. Box 307
Burkesville, KY 42717
tel. (270)864-3891
fax. (270)864-3497

News Clips
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Grand Jury indicts nurse on neglect, theft charges, following investigation by Attorney General and Burkesville Police
January 25, 2012 Issue
Attorney General Jack Conway announced Monday the indictment and arrest of a former nurse at the Cumberland Valley Manor Nursing Home in Burkesville on charges of neglect of an adult and theft of a controlled substance. A Cumberland County Grand Jury indicted 41-year-old Jinger Butler on January 19, 2012 on 11 counts of neglect and 11 counts of theft of a controlled substance following an investigation by General Conway’s Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control and the Burkesville Police Department. Members of the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office took Butler into custody on January 21. She was released on her own recognizance. The indictment for neglect alleges that between May and November of 2010 Butler replaced and retained the medication of 10 adult residents while she was acting as a caretaker at the Cumberland Valley Manor Nursing Home. Butler’s conduct, according to the indictment, deprived each resident of services necessary to maintain the health and welfare of the patient, constituting knowing neglect of an adult. Under KRS 209.990(2), each count of knowing neglect of an adult is a Class C felony with a potential prison sentence of five to 10 years. The indictment for theft of a controlled substance charges that Butler took hydrocodone pills, identified as Lortab, from the residents. Theft of a Controlled Substance is a Class D felony with a potential sentence of one to five years of imprisonment. Both indictments release to the same 10 residents. The office of Jesse Stockton, Commonwealth Attorney for the 40th Judicial Circuit representing Monroe, Cumberland and Clinton counties, is handling the prosecution of this case. A charge is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Grand Jury returns indictments
January 25, 2012 Issue
The Cumberland county grand Jury returned the following indictments on January 19. Patrick Pruitt was indicted and charged with four counts of Receiving Stolen Property; Ronald Melton - Marijuana Cultivation; Phillip Williams - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition; Barbara Williams - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition; Casey Hayes - Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 1st Degree; Shannon Zackary - two counts of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 1st Degree; Jinger Butler - 11 counts of Theft of Controlled Substance and 11 counts of Neglect of an Adult by a Caretaker. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

School Superintendent John Hurt announces retirement
January 18, 2012 Issue
Cumberland County Schools Superintendent John Hurt announced his pending retirement at the regular January school board meeting on January 11. Superintendent Hurt told those present that he would be retiring at the end of this fiscal year which is June 30, 2012. He stated that he was announcing his retirement now in order to give the board ample time to go through the selection process for hiring the next superintendent and ensure a seamless transition. Hurt has served as Superintendent for the past 10 years and has been an educator for 32 years.

Special election for State Representative, 53rd House District, will be held Feb. 7
January 11, 2012 Issue
Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes announced last Wednesday that a Special Election will be held on February 7 to fill the vacant seat in the House of Representatives, 53rd House District, previously held by the Hon. James R. Comer. The 53rd House District includes Cumberland, Green, Metcalfe and Monroe counties.

Local citizens involved in accident in Edmonton
January 4, 2012 Issue
A Dubre man was involved in a two-car accident in Metcalfe County on Sunday, January 1 at 7:30 p.m., two miles south of Edmonton on Subtle Road. According to Kentucky State Police Trooper Daniel Stephens, Nile Smith of Dubre was operating a 2002 Nissan Maxima and traveling westbound on H. Garrett Road at the junction of Subtle Road, when he pulled into the path of a 2008 Ford Crown Victoria operated by Josh Neal of Edmonton. Neal’s vehicle was traveling westbound on Subtle Road. A passenger in the Smith vehicle, James Burns was transported by Barren-Metcalfe EMS to Cumberland County Hospital for non-life threatening injuries. All occupants were belted. Smith and Neal were not injured.

One injured in accident
December 28, 2011 Issue
According to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department, Dennis Shelton of Albany was traveling east on Hwy. 90 near Norris Branch Road on Tuesday, Dec. 27 when he lost control of the 2008 Pontiac G6 he was operating. Shelton’s daughter, Brittany Shelton was a passenger in the vehicle and was transported to the Clinton County Hospital. Shelton was not injured.

Grand jury returns indictment
December 21, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictment on December 15. Laurence Holfelder was indicted and charged with Flagrant Non Support. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Three Cumberland Valley Manor employees recognized
December 14, 2011 Issue
Maribeth Shelton, Office Manager; Jerome Helm, Environmental Service and Sherry Johnson, Dietician at Cumberland Valley Manor were each recognized with a Mid-Western District Award, and the facility received the Mid-Western District Award for Community Outreach. The awards were presented at the Kentucky Association of Health Care Facilities (KAHCF) Annual Meeting on November 17.

CCMS 8th Grade Basketball Team finishes season with 14-2 record
December 7, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Middle School’s 8th Grade basketball team has closed a very successful season with a record of 14-2. The team finished the year by placing 2nd in the Adair County Invitational Tournament, falling to Southern Pulaski Middle School after a very hard fought game.

Five arrested on meth charges
November 30, 2011 Issue
Five people were arrested last Wednesday night, November 23 on methamphetamine charges. According to Cumberland County Sheriff Stevie Wheat, authorities acted on a tip of a meth lab on Bee Riley Road at the home of Matthew Riley. Wheat said multiple meth labs were discovered at the location, inside and outside the residence. Arrested were Matthew Riley, 43; John Cherry, 44; Jessie Allen, 28, all of Burkesville, and Patricia N. Roach, 37, and Zach Huddleston, 23, both of Celina, Tennessee. All were charged with Manufacturing Methamphetamine. Riley was also charged with Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. All were taken to the Adair County Regional Jail.

Audit of 2010 financial statement of former sheriff released
November 23, 2011 Issue
The State Auditor Crit Luallen recently released the audit of the 2010 financial statement of the former Cumberland County Sheriff, James Pruitt. The audit found that the former sheriff’s financial statement presents fairly the revenues, expenditures, and excess fees of the Cumberland County Sheriff in conformity with the regulatory basis of accounting. However, the audit identified issues with the improper disposal of two county owned vehicles and undeposited receipts. The report is being referred to the Office of the Attorney General for further investigation into these matters.

Morrison named Assistant Fire Chief
November 23, 2011 Issue
The During last week’s Burkesville City Council meeting, Earl Morrison, was appointed Assistant Fire Chief.

Grand jury returns indictments
November 16, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on November 10. Johnny K. Riley was indicted and charged with four counts of Receiving Stolen Property; Jerry Edward Perdue - Flagrant Non Support; Beverly Jane Garner - Flagrant Non Suppport. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Election results
November 16, 2011 Issue
Click this link for the November 8 local election results: Election

Local KY-ASAP Board receives 10-year award of excellence and achievement
November 9, 2011 Issue
The Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy and the Kentucky Agency for Substances Abuse Policy has awarded the Cumberland County Local KY-ASAP Board the 10-Year Celebration & Achievement Award for outstanding accomplishments in providing substance abuse education, prevention, treatment and law enforcement initiatives for the past 10 years.

Truck vs. utility pole, no injuries
November 2, 2011 Issue
A one vehicle accident amazingly left no injuries last Thursday afternoon, October 27 on Hwy. 90 West near Allen’s Creek Road. According to Sheriff’s Deputy, Craig Groce, John Finley, 17, of Burkesville, was traveling west in a 2001 Dodge Ram pick up when he lost control of his vehicle on the wet roadway and hit a utility pole and overturned. Finley was wearing a seat belt and was not injured in the accident.

Two injured in Sunday morning accident
October 26, 2011 Issue
Two Burkesville men were injured in a one vehicle accident on Sunday morning, October 23 about 3.8 miles south of Burkesville. According to Sheriff’s Deputy Jay Wilson, Michael Moons, 18, was traveling south on KY 691 when he ran off the roadway, over corrected, slid out of control and hit a tree. Moons and his passenger, Jacob Scott, 20, were transported to Cumberland County Hospital.

Roach injured in accident
October 19, 2011 Issue
According to Cumberland County Sheriff Stevie Wheat, Joey M. Roach, 52, of Burkesville, was traveling west on KY 953 last Thursday when he lost control of his 1991 Ford pick up and hit a utility pole. Roach was taken to Cumberland County Hospital where he was flown to the University of Louisville Hospital with head injuries.

Grand jury returns one indictment
October 19, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictment on October 13. Christoper Watson was indicted and charged with Flagrant Non Support.Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Officials address transportation committee on KY HWY  90 West
October 12, 2011 Issue
Cumberland County Judge Executive John Phelps, Jr., Cumberland County Sheriff Stevie Wheat and Cumberland County Coroner (and paramedic) Gary White spoke to the Interim Joint Committee on Transportation in Frankfort last Tuesday, October 4 concerning the completion and relocation of a portion of KY 90 West. In December 2007, this portion of highway was under a changer order for completion, and in January 2008 it was stopped. It is now on the unscheduled needs list. Also attending the meeting were Emergency Management Director Greg Cary, Burkesville Fire Chief Weldon Rowe, County Attorney Lindsey Bell, concerned citizen, Jeremy Wright, and Magistrates Edward Anderson, J.V. Groce and Ricky White.

Annie Ruby’s to be featured on KET
October 5, 2011 Issue
The Burkesville’s Annie Ruby’s Cafe will be featured on KETS’ production Kentucky Life, which airs several times throughout the week. The date and time of the show on which the cafe will be featured is not certain at this time, but tune in to CCN for details in the upcoming issues. Kentucky Life is a show that began in 1995 which was designed to celebrate the heritage of the Commonwealth through profiles of Kentucky people and their communities and the ideas which make them unique. The show is hosted by Dave Shuffett.

Grand jury returns indictments
October 5, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on Sept. 29 Rebecca Branham was indicted and charged with six counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument and six counts of Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Ricky Morrow - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition and Criminal Mischief 1st Degree; David W. Smith - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree, Possession of a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree, Possession of Controlled Substance Not in Original Container, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Open Alcoholic Beverage Container, Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration Of or above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 1st Offense, Public Intoxication and Improper Registration Plate. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Record setting attendance at Steel Horse Stampede
September 28, 2011 Issue
The 5th Annual Steel Horse Stampeded, held Sunday, September 25, was bigger and better than ever with 247 motorcycles/drivers and 129 passengers. That a total of 376 riders! This year’s proceeds to to We Care and the Cumberland County Search and Rescue Squad.

Missing boy from Georgia found here
September 21, 2011 Issue
A 2 1/2 year old boy missing from Marietta, Georgia has been found here in Burkesville. According to Burkesville Police Chief Brad Perdue, Kathleen Salsberg, 42, allegedly kidnapped her son, Jacob Briscoe, from his father, Wally Briscoe. Perdue said it was a tip from a local citizen last Thursday, September 15 that alerted local authorities to investigate Salsberg who was living in Burkesville under a different name. The tip came from a local woman who witnessed the child and his mother at the park. The witness said she talked to the boy and Salsberg and told police something didn’t seem right. The witness researched the website, missingkids.com, and found Salsberg was wanted for the kidnapping of her son, Jacob. Apparently, Salsberg took Jacob for a two week visit on July 7, 2011 and was to return him to his father on July 21, 2011 at 5 p.m. A felony warrant for Kidnapping was issued for Salsberg on July 29, 2011. Perdue said Salsberg was arrested and charged with Fugitive from Justice and was taken to the Adair County Regional Jail where she remained at press time. She will be extradited to Georgia to face her charges there. Wally Briscoe drove from Marietta, Georgia Thursday and was reunited with his son that night. Assisting Perdue were Cumberland County Sheriff Stevie Wheat and Emergency Management Director Greg Cary.

Tragic accident claims life of local child
September 14, 2011 Issue
A two car accident on Tuesday, September 7 has claimed the life of a local child. According to Kentucky State Police Sgt. Jamie Heller, the accident occurred around 7 a.m. on Hwy. 90, approximately three miles west of Burkesville. Megan crafton, 24 of Marrowbone, was traveling east in a 1999 Ford. She exited a graded curve and attempted to slow for stopped traffic when she lost control of her vehicle. She then entered the westbound lane where she was struck by a 1999 Ford pickup operated by James B. Kerr, 27, of Burkesville. A passenger in the Crafton vehicle, Gracie Faye Hurt, 6, of Marrowbone, was pronounced dead at Cumberland County Hospital. Crafton was transported to Cumberland County Hospital. Kerr was not injured.

Local producers invited to showcase their products October 6
September 7, 2011 Issue
Any home-based producer of food, fiber or craft or handiwork that is offered for sale is invited to shocase their work at a special event on Thursday, October 6 from 3-6 p.m. at the County Extension Building in Burkesville. Table space will available free of charge. The general public will be invited to this event to meet and visit and perhaps taste test any products on display.

Grand jury returns indictments
August 31, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on August 25. Joshua D. Brooks was indicted and charged with Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition. Christinia M. Brooks was indicted and charged with Theft By Unlawful Taking or disposition. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

More affordable prescriptions now available locally through 340B program
August 24, 2011 Issue
Cumberland County Hospital, along with the B.F. Taylor Clinic, Flowers Rural Health Clinic, Capps Pharmacy and Morgan’s Medicine are happy to implement section 340B of the Public Health Service Act. 340B is a Federal Program extended to a select number of qualifying hospitals and clinics throughout the United States to give substantial discounts on prescription drugs. Hospitals and clinics have to meet specific guidelines in order to participate in the program. This program will allow ONLY local pharmacies to fill prescriptions written by ONLY the Cumberland County Hospital and its affiliates. This means if you go to the E.R. and the E.R. doctor writes a prescription, it qualifies. If you to the B.F. Taylor Clinic and a doctor or nurse practitioner from there writes a prescription, it qualifies also. The same goes for Flowers Rural Health Clinic and also any doctor that comes to Cumberland County Hospital and provides services there. Cumberland County Hospital and its clinics are some of the first in the state of Kentucky to qualify for and implement this program.

Local school enrollment dips slightly
August 17, 2011 Issue
The total enrollment for the Cumberland County School District showed a slight decrease for the 2011-2012 school year, which began on Tuesday, August 9, 2011. According to Rodney Schwartz, Director of Pupil Personnel, the start of the 2010-2011 school year saw 995 students compared to 984 enrolled this year, a decrease of 1.1 percent. At Cumberland County Elementary School, the total enrollment decreased from 471 students last year to the current total of 469. Cumberland County High school dropped from 311 last year to 298 this year. Cumberland County Middle School was the only school to show an increase, going from 213 students last year to 217 this year. Despite a drop in numbers, the Cumberland County Schools staff welcome students back and look forward to a great year!

One injured, one arrested in shooting
August 10, 2011 Issue
One person was injured and one arrested last Wednesday afternoon, August 3, following an argument and shooting on Celina Road at the home of Robert and Karla Weimer. According to Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy Craig Groce, an argument over personal property occurred between Robert Weimer and his father-in-law, John Richard Smith. Groce said the two men “wrestled” and somtime during the struggle, Weime’rs mother-in-law, Linda Smith, shot Weimer in the leg above his knee cap. Weimer was taken to the Cumberland County Hospital and then flown to a Nashville hospital where he was treated and released. Linda Smith was arrested and charged with Assault 1st Degree.

Meth lab discovered Monday night
August 10, 2011 Issue
One An active methamphetamine labe was discovered at a residence on Grider United Methodist Driver Monday night, August 8. According to Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy Craig Groce, the police were called to a domestic disturbance. After a HCl generator was found (used in manufacturing meth), the residence was evacuated immediately. Local certified meth technician Lawrence Nettles and Emergency Management Director Greg Cary were called to the scene. Another search of the residence resulted in the confiscation of several components used to manufacture meth, more HCl generators and drug paraphernalia. Groce said arrests are pending.

Two seriously injured in accident
August 3, 2011 Issue
Two people were seriously injured in a one vehicle accident Monday afternoon, August 1 on Hwy. 61, approximately 3 1/2 miles south of Burkesville According to Cumberland County Sheriff Stevie Wheat, two females were traveling north in a 1998 Chevrolet Malibu registered in Clay County, Tennessee. Wheat said the drive of the vehicle attempted to pass an RTEC van and over-accelerated, lost control and left the roadway, striking a culvert and overturning several times. The driver and passenger were taken to Cumberland County Hospital and then transported elsewhere. One suffered from a broken neck and the other from a fractured skull. Rescue workers used the Jaws of Life to remove the top of the vehicle so the accident victims could be extricated. Names were not available at presstime.

Grand jury returns indictments
August 3, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on July 28. Bradley Richardson was indicted and charged with Manslaughter 2nd Degree and Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration Of or Above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 1st Offense; Kenneth Andrus - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition; Jeremy S. Akers - Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Failure to Produce Insurance on a Motor Vehicle as Required, Driving on Suspended Operator’s License and Persistent Felony Offender 1st Degree; Nathaniel Abney - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree (Meth); Teresa Garner - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree (Meth); Dustin Riddle - Possession of Marijuana and Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree (Meth); Julie Burchette - Possession of Marijuana and Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree (Meth); Byron Weber - Possession of Marijuana and Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree (Meth); Ryan Weber - Possession of Marijuana and Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree (Meth). Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Spears named principal at CCES
July 27, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Elementary School Site-Based Decision Making Council has selected Carolyn Stalcup Spears as the new principal. She as 10 years of experience as an administrator at CCES, with nine years as the assistant principal, and this past year as the Administrator of School Improvement. Over the past 25 years, she has been an elementary school teacher, a middle school teacher and basketball coach for Cumberland County Schools.

Local couple killed in accident
July 20, 2011 Issue
A Cumberland County couple was killed in a one vehicle accident in Metcalfe County Last Tuesday afternoon, July 12. The accident occurred about one mile east of Beaumont on Hwy. 90.According to the Metcalfe County Sheriff’s Office, Frank Fishback, 70, of Burkesville, was operating a 2006 Ford F250 pick up truck on the wet roadway when he lost control, struck a rock wall and overturned several times. Both Fishback and one of his passengers, Jannie Fishbank, 67, of Burkesville, were pronounced dead at the scene by Metcalfe County Coroner Larry Wilson. A second passenger in the vehicle, Kirt Morgan, 3, of Glasgow, was transported to T.J. Samson Community Hospital where he was treated and later released. The Summer Shade Volunteer Fire Department used the “Jaws of Life” to extricate all from the vehicle.

One injured in accident
July 20, 2011 Issue
The Lucinda Swartzentruber, 39, of Burkesville, was injured in a one vehicle accident Friday morning, July 15 on Hwy. 90 West. according to Cumberland County Deputy Sheriff Craig Groce, Swartzentruber was traveling west when she lost control of her van, veered and went over a guardrail and embankment, overturning. She was taken to Cumberland County Hospital and then flown to the University of Kentucky Hospital. Her passenger, a male child, 4, was in a child restraint and not injured.

Boat ramp renamed for angler who caught world record smallmouth bass
July 20, 2011 Issue
The On the morning of July 9, 1955, angler David L. Hayes of Leitchfield began a trolling run in the Phillip’s bend are of Dale Hollow Lake. After Hayes cleared a point near what is now Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park, the biggest smallmouth bass ever caught by an angler struck his pearl-colored Bomber 600 lure. The 27-inch long smallmouth bass that Hayes reeled in from the Kentucky side of the lake that day weight 11 pounds, 15 ounces. It remains the all-tackle world record. To commemorate this legendary catch, the auxiliary boat ramp at Dale Hollow State Resort Park Marina was recently renamed the David L. Hayes Boat Ramp. The sign marking the ramp include a life-sized image of the record fish. “Now anglers that launch or take out their boats at Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park can compare their trophy catches to the world record,” said Chad Miles, administrative coordinator for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Nationally recognized wildlife artist Rick Hill painted the life-sized fish and 100 prints signed and numbered are available for purchase at www.kentuckywildlife.com

Work continues at Wolf Creek Dam
July 13, 2011 Issue
The foundation remediation project that has been ongoing at Wolf Creek Dam since early 2007 is about 55 percent complete according to David Hendrix, project manager for the Corps of Engineers, and Kathy Lust, resident engineer for the Corps of Engineers. The Corps hosted a Media Day last Thursday, July 7 at the project site. They showed a PowerPoint presentation outlining the entire project, showing what work had already been completed and what was still to come. Several members of the media were present including a crew from Fox 17 News in Nashville. Fox 17’s story will air on Monday, July 18.

Murphy named principal at CCHS
July 6, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County High School Site-Based Decison Making Council has selected Mr. Daryl Murphy as the new principal of CCHS. He fills a vacancy left by Mrs. Kay Graham-Bright who retired in May. Murphy began his new duties on July 1.

Local teenagers killed in tragic accident
June 29, 2011 Issue
A tragic accident last Wednesday evening has claimed the lives of two Cumberland County teenagers. Pronounced dead at the scene were cousins, Yolanda Nicole Guerra, 16, of Burkesville, and Alisha Mae Wright, 17, also of Burkesville. Wright’s sister, Desiree Wright, 14, of Burkesville was airlifted to Vanderbilt Hospital and was released Saturday.

4th of July Celebration planned for Monday, July 4
June 22, 2011 Issue
The 4th of July Celebration is set for Monday, July 4 at the Dr. Joseph Schickel Veterans Memorial Park. events being held during this year’s celebration include: 5K Run, Bicycle Parade, Car Show, Free inflatables, Fire Cracker Pageant, Karaoke, Corn Hole Tournament, Horseshoe Tournament, Cross Fire Band, Generations band, Border Line band and Fireworks.

Governor announces $90,058.11 recycling grant for Cumberland County
June 15, 2011 Issue
The Governor Steve Beshear announced Tuesday 59 recycling and 14 household hazardous waste (HHW) grants to expand recycling, reduce the amount of solid waste going into landfills, and sustain the environmental management of household hazardous waste, which includes electronic scrap and mercury from homes throughout the Commonwealth. The Cumberland County Recycle Center was named a recipient in the amount of $90,058.11

Sawmill destroyed by fire
June 8, 2011 Issue
An electrical fire is being blamed for a fire at the Larry Stalcup Lumber Company #2 on Smith Grove Road on Friday, June 3. Burkesville Fire Chief Weldon Rowe said a 40x80 building was a complete loss.

Grand jury returns indictments
June 1, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on May 25. Joseph A. Brien was indicted and charged with five counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 1st Offense and five counts of Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Andrea K. Hurt - Burglary 3rd Degree, Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition and Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Darrell G. Wallen - Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Watson named Lindsey Wilson Duo County Scholar
May 25, 2011 Issue
Taylor Danielle Watson of Burkesville has been named a Duo County Scholar at Lindsey Wilson College and has received the Lindsey Wilson Duo County Scholarship. She will attend the liberal arts college in the fall. The $3,000 tuition scholarship is given annually to a first-time, full-time Lindsey Wilson freshman from Duo County’s service area, which includes parts of Adair, Cumberland and Russell counties.

Wiliams wins Republican primary for Ky. governor
May 25, 2011 Issue
State Senate President David Williams and Gov. Steve Beshear are political foes in the state legislature - and now they’ll face off at the ballot box. On Tuesday, May 17, Williams won a three-way primary for the Republican nomination to challenge Beshear, a first-term Democrat, in November.

Ribbon Cutting held at Extension Office
May 18, 2011 Issue
A ribbon cutting was held last Friday at the new location of the Cumberland County Extension Services office located on Hwy. 90 east. Attending the ceremony were extension board members and several community supporters. Tours of the building were given and refreshments were served.

Relay for Life brings in $52,585.42
May 11, 2011 Issue
The 11th Annual Relay for Life of Cumberland County was held over the weekend and brought in $52,585.42. The theme this year was “Wish Upon a Cure.”

Grand jury returns indictments
May 4, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on April 28. Michael L. Neathery was indicted and charged with Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Failure to Signal and Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Tiffany C. Evans - Manufacturing Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Eva J. Neathery - Manufacturing Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Dennis Williams - Manufacturing Methamphetamine and Persistent Felony Offender 1st Degree; Teresa L. Garner - Manufacturing Methamphetamine; Nathaniel D. Abney - Manufacturing Methamphetamine and Persistent Felony Offender 1st Degree; Michael L. Chambers - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree-Methamphetamine, Manufacturing Methamphetamine and Driving on Suspended Operator’s License; Michael Joe Neathery - Manufacturing Methamphetamine; Bradley L. Foster - Possession of a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree, Possession ofa Controlled Subtance 1st Degree-Methamphetamine, Operating a Motor Vehicle with expired Operator’s License, Failure to Signal and Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Wallace H. White - Fleeing or Evading Police 1st Degree, Resisting Arrest, Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or Above 0.08 or Or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 2nd Offense and Reckless Driving. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Spears is Cumberland County School Volunteer of the Year 2011
April 27, 2011 Issue
Mrs. Donna Spears has been named the Cumberland County School Volunteer of the Year for 2011. She was presented a certificate of recognition for her 13 years of volunteering with the Cumberland County Schools. Donna has been a dedicated volunteer for the success of student.

Cooksey home and Monday home destroyed by fire
April 20, 2011 Issue
The Brandon Cooksey home on Glasgow Road was destroyed by fire on Thursday, April 14. Marrowbone, Burkesville and Breeding fire departments responded to the fire. No one was injured in the fire. the cause of the fire is unknown at this time. The Keith Monday home on State Park Road was destroyed by fire on Monday, April 18. No was injured in the fire; however, the Mondays lost a dog in the blaze. The Mondays also lost a camper and a van. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.

Missing man and car recovered from Cumberland River
April 13, 2011 Issue
A car belonging to Robert Cleon Biggerstaff, 76, of Burkesville, was pulled from the Cumberland River on Saturday afternoon, April 9. Biggerstaff was reported missing on April 5 around 9:45 p.m. He was last seen in the area of Cloyd’s Landing. Cumberland County Emergency Management Director Greg Cary, along with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, began a land search April 5 that later ended in searching the Cumberland River. The search was conducted by Cumberland County Search and Rescue, Wayne County Search and Rescue, the Russell County Dive Team, the Pulaski County Dive Team and Randal Gibson and Jimmy Scott with their boats and sonar. Biggerstaff was pronounced dead at the scene by Cumberland County Coroner Gary White.

Ayers selected for People to People Ambassador Program
April 6, 2011 Issue
Cumberland County High School freshman Casey Ayers has been selected to participate in the People to People Ambassador Program. He is the son of William and Amy Ayers of Burkesville. This summer Ayers will travel to Scotland, Ireland, England and Wales.

Grand jury returns indictments
March 30, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on March 24. Bradley Richardson was indicted and charged with two counts of wanton Endangerment 1st Degree; Darrell G. Wallen - Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Obstructed Vision and/or Windshield; Maggie A. Wallace - Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Billy K. Daniels - Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Ribbon cutting held at C&C Land Surveying
March 23, 2011 Issue
C&C Land Surveying celebrated its recent opening with a ribbon cutting last Thursday, March 17. C&C is owned by John Capps and Jeremy Cooksey and is located on the east side of the public square.

Three arrested and charged with manufacturing meth
March 16, 2011 Issue
Three Burkesville residents were arrested and charged with manufacturing methamphetamine last Thursday afternoon, March 10. According to Cumberland County Sheriff Stevie Wheat, authorities received a tip about a meth lab at a residence on Little renox Road. Wheat said the meth lab was dormant when authorities arrived. Arrested were Dennis Williams, 33, Nathan Abney, 26, and Teresa Garner, 44. all three were charged with manufacturing methamphetamine and lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

Bowlin injured in explosion last week
March 9, 2011 Issue
An Albany man was seriously injured last Wednesday afternoon, March 2, in an explosion at Premium Air Systems, located on West Alley Street. According to Cumberland County Emergency Management Director, Greg Cary, Donnie Bowlin, 31, was using a plasma cutter to open a 50 gallon barrel that once held paint thinner when the explosion occurred. Cary said the fumes from the paint thinner caused the explosion. The end of the barrel hit Bowlin in the face and upper body causing severe facial injuries. Bowlin was taken to Cumberland County Hospital, then flown to the University of Kentucky Hospital where he remained at press time.

Cary killed in logging accident
March 2, 2011 Issue
A Burkesville man was killed in a freak logging accident last Wednesday afternoon, February 23. The accident occurred around 1:50 p.m. in the Whites Bottom area off of Warsaw Road. According to Cumberland County Coroner Gary White, Chris Cary, 35, was operating a skidder when the accident happened. Apparently, Cary hooked up to a log and put the skidder in reverse, then backed down a hill (approximately 100 feet) and hit a ditch. Cary hit his head on the metal cage of the skidder and was pronounced dead at the Cumberland County Hospital as a result of head trauma. Cary’s father, Bobby Cary, was treated and released at Cumberland county Hospital for a leg injury he received while trying to help his son.

Radford named  2011 State KAPOS Coach of the Year
February 23, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Cheerleading Coach Sherry Radford has been named the 2011 State KAPOS (Kentucky Association of Pep Organization Sponsors) Coach of the Year. She was honored Saturday, Feb. 19 at the State KAPOS Cheerleading competition at Diddle Arena in Bowling Green.

School board amends school calendar
February 16, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Board of Education, at its meeting on Feb. 9, amended the school calendar for the 2010-2011 school year. As of that date, Cumberland County Schools had missed 14 days of school. Since the board meeting, additional days of school have been missed. The decision of when to make up those days will be considered at the next meeting. At the February meeting the board made the following changes: February 21 was changed to a day for students to attend school; the April 1 staff work day was changed to a day for students to attend school. That staff work day was moved to the Primary Election Day (May 17); April 4, 5, and 6 were changed to days for students to attend school; April 7 and 8 were kept as days off for sprink Break, this however could change depending upon the total additional days missed; Memorial Day (May 30) remains a day off from school. The remaining days that needed to be made up were moved to the end of the calendar. This puts the last day for students on June 2 and Closing Day on June 3. These ending dates are also likely to change depending on the total number of days missed.

Grand jury returns indictments
February 9, 2011 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on Jan. 27. Joshua Nichols was indicted and charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol of Other Substance 3rd Offense, Aggravating Circumstances; Operating a Motor Vehicle While License is Revoked or Suspended for Driving Under the Influence, Reckless Driving and Possession of Open Alcoholic Beverage Container; Walter G. “Chopper” Brown - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition; Scotty Reece - Unlawful Possession of a Methamphetamine Precursor, Failure to Maintain Insurance on a Motor Vehicle as Required, Reckless Driving, No Registration Receipt and Persistent Felony Offender 1st Degree. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Nation dies at age 78
February 2, 2011 Issue
Long-time mail carrier, Berel Nation, 78, of Burkesville, died last Wendesday, Jan. 26, on Hwy. 1206 (State Park Road). According to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, Nation was delivering the mail on Hwy. 1206 when he ran off the road and hit some trees. An autopsy is being performed to determine the exact cause of death. Nation was pronounced dead at the scene by Cumberland County Coroner Gary White.

Garland named Outstanding PTA for 2011
January 26, 2011 Issue
Chris Garland of Burkesville has been named the recipient of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Orthopaedic Section’s Outstanding Student Physical Therapist Assistant Award for 2011. Garland is currently enrolled in second-year studies in the Somerset Community College Physical Therapist Assistant Program. She will graduate in May, 2011.

Relay for Life 2011 Kickoff is Friday
January 19, 2011 Issue
Don’t miss out on the fun at the Relay for Life of Cumberland County 2011 Kickoff this Friday, Jan. 21 beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Community Center.

Jeffrey Ashley killed in accident
January 12, 2011 Issue
A Cumberland County man was killed in a three-vehicle accident Monday in Barren County on Burkesville Road near the intersection of Old Sherfey Road. The accident occurred shortly before 1 p.m. According to the Barren County Sheriff’s Department, Jeffrey T. Ashley, 43, of Marrowbone, was traveling west when he crossed the center line striking a Freightliner hauling logs and being driven by Clinton E. Birdwell, 33, of Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee. Ashley’s vehicle then continued out of control striking an eastbound vehicle driven by Randall A. Honeycutt, 35, of Albany, who was following the tractor-trailer. Ashley was pronounced dead at the scene. Honeycutt and his four passengers, Shana L. Honeycutt, 33, Mattie L. Honeycutt, 8, and two-week twins, were treated and released at T.J. Samson Community Hospital.

Death of Howard couple is possible murder/suicide
January 12, 2011 Issue
The Kentucky State Police is investigating an incident that resulted in the death of Blanton Howard, 75, and his wife, Stephanie Howard, 39, both of Burkesville. Cumberland County dispatch contacted KSP Post 15 on Sunday, Jan. 9 just after 8:30 a.m. and requested assistance at a residence on Scott River Drive in Burkesville with a possible murder/suicide. The investigation revealed that Blanton Howard shot Stephanie Howard during a domestic altercation and then turned the weapon on himself and took his own life. Autopsies were performed Monday and preliminary results confirmed that both victims died as a result of gunshot wounds. Detective B.J. Burton is continuing the investigation.

Local officials sworn in
January 5, 2011 Issue
New and returning City Councilmen Odis Young, Kyle Booher, Billy Maxey, Billy Cain, Harvey Graves and David Rush, Deputy Jailers Jamie Howard, Jerry Ralph Pennycuff, Dorothy Roach and Lisa Smith, Jailer Junior Smith, County Court Clerk Kim King, Mayor Keith Riddle, Circuit Court Clerk Nancy Brewington and Sheriff Stevie Wheat and his deputies Kenny Johnson, Craig Groce and Jay Wilson were sworn in to begin their duties in 2011.

Lady Panthers win Holiday Tournament
December 29, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County Lady Panthers took home championship honors in the Lady Panther Christmas Tournament.

Five injured in two vehicle accident
December 22, 2010 Issue
Five people were injured in a two vehicle accident last Wednesday afternoon on Hwy. 90 West at Leslie Road. According to Cumberland County Sheriff James Pruitt, Samantha England of Burkesville was exiting Leslie Road and crossing Hwy.90 onto Old Glasgow Road, when she pulled into the path of Brandy Franklin of Burkesville, who was traveling west on Hwy. 90. England and Franklin were taken to Cumberland County Hospital and treated and released. A passenger in the England vehicle, Chasity England, and a passenger in the Franklin vehicle, Kaylen Franklin, were flown out. Other passengers in the Franklin vehicle, Gracie Willis and Chris Gardner, were treated and released. Brittany Farlee, a passenger in the England vehicle was not injured.

Grand jury returns indictments
December 15, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on Dec. 9. Johnathan Keith Riddle was indicted and charged with two counts of Forgery 2nd Degree. Jeffery Neal Scott was indicted and charged with Flagrant Non Support. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Brown killed accident in Florida
December 8, 2010 Issue
A Cumberland County native was killed in a two-vehicle accident Monday, November 29 in Osteen, Florida. According to the Florida Highway Patril, Patrick Brown, 39, of Edgewater, Florida, was traveling southbound in the right lane of I-95 when his vehicle swerved to the left and into the median and overturned. Brown’s Chevy truck slid into the northbound lanes of the interstate and struck a tractor-trailer driven by Aaron Watson, 50, of Jacksonville, Florida. Brown’s truck burst into flames, trapping him, police said. Watson was not injured. Services for Patrick Brown, the son of Jerry Thomas and Nora Mae Brown of Burkesville, were held Sunday, Dec. 5.

Marrowbone Christmas Parade held
December 1, 2010 Issue
The annual Marrowbone Christmas Parade was held Saturday, Nov. 27 with the Cumberland County High School Marching Band leading the way. Click here to see photos, http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/album.php?aid=39094&id=100000298844317.

Ribbon cutting held at new water treatment plant
November 24, 2010 Issue
On Tuesday, Nov. 16, a ribbon cutting ceremony took place at the City of Burkesvile’s new two million gallon per day water treatment plant. Several people were on hand to celebrate including the mayor, city council, the newly elected judge executive and fiscal court members, Cumberland County Water District, city and county attorneys, GRW engineers, Lake Cumberland Area Development District, Columbia Regional Office of the Kentucky Divisions of Water, Kentucky Rural Water Association, city staff and well wishers.

One killed in three vehicle accident
November 17, 2010 Issue
One person was killed in a three vehicle accident last Tuesday, Nov. 9 around 6:35 p.m. on Hwy. 90 East (Bear Creek Hill). According to Kentucky State Police Trooper Dewayne Holder, Joseph C. Davidson, 24, of Burkesville was traveling west on Hwy. 90 when he attempted to pass a vehicle. Davidson’s vehicle struck at eastbound vehicle operated by Misti V. Kemp, 32, of Jamestown, head on. Kemp was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger in the Kemp vehicle, Adam Wilburn, 49, of Burkesville was flown to Vanderbilt University Hospital. A second passenger in the Kemp vehicle, three month old Kylie Kemp of Burkesville was flown to Vanderbilt University Hospital. After the initial collision, the Davidson vehicle re-entered the westbound lane and struck a vehicle operated by Jon E. Frederick, 65, of Burkesville. He was transported to Cumberland County Hospital. Davidson was flown to the University of Kentucky Hospital.

Cumberland County FFA wins State Land Judging
November 10, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County High School Land Judging Team won first place in the the State Land Judging Contest held last Thursday at the FFA Leadership Training Center in Hardinsburg. Taking second place was Madison Central and third place was Spencer County. Members of the team from Cumberland County were Chelsea King, Katie Fletcher, Hannah Hopper and Dixi Secula. Cumberland County Advisor Lannie Willen coached the team, which will represent Kentucky FFA in the National Land Judging Contest in May in Oklahoma City. Katie Fletcher was also the high individual in the contest.

Cumberland County FFA wins State Land Judging
November 10, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County High School Land Judging Team won first place in the the State Land Judging Contest held last Thursday at the FFA Leadership Training Center in Hardinsburg. Taking second place was Madison Central and third place was Spencer County. Members of the team from Cumberland County were Chelsea King, Katie Fletcher, Hannah Hopper and Dixi Secula. Cumberland County Advisor Lannie Willen coached the team, which will represent Kentucky FFA in the National Land Judging Contest in May in Oklahoma City. Katie Fletcher was also the high individual in the contest.

Russell Springs woman killed here
November 3, 2010 Issue
Kentucky State Trooper Dewayne Holder is investigating a single vehicle collision that occurred in Burkesville on Saturday, Oct. 30 at approximately 11:25 p.m. Bradley A. Richardson, 34, of Russell Springs, was traveling north on KY Highway 61, three miles south of Burkesville, operating a 2002 Buick, Richardson lost control of his vehicle, left the roadway, striking an embankment before overturning. A passenger in the vehicle, Rhonda L. McClister, 32, of Russell Springs, was ejected form the vehicle. McClister, who was not wearing a seat belt, was pronounced dead at the scene by Cumberland County Coroner Gary White. A second passenger, Heather N. Richardson, 27, of Russell Springs, who was wearing a seat belt, along with Bradley A. Richardson, who was not wearing a seat belt, were transported to Cumberland County Hospital for non-life threatening injuries. KSP was assisted at the scene by the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, Cumberland County EMS and the Burkesville Police Department. Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the accident which is still udner investigation by Trooper Holder.

Castillo keeps judge’s seat, Wheat is new sheriff, King keeps clerk’s office, Riddle remains mayor
November 3, 2010 Issue
Incumbent Kristi Castillo won the district judge’s seat with 1,411 local votes combined with 3,162 votes from Monroe County over Stephen Poindexter with 1,520 local votes combined with 1,661 votes from Monroe County. County Court Clerk Kim King kept her office with 2,146 votes over Stacey Thrasher’s 904 votes. Stevie Wheat is the new sheriff after defeating Kenny Bean, 2,302 votes to 779 votes. Mayor Keith Riddle kept his office with 390 votes over Mike Irby’s 231 votes.  Billy Maxey (398), Odis Young (388), Harvey Graves (372), Kyle Booher (323), Billy Cain (321) and David Rush (287) rounded out the top six in the Burkesville City Council race. In the 4th Magisterial District, Ricky L. White won with 510 votes over Mike Garrett who had 53 votes and Jeff Melton who had 253 votes. In the District 2 Constable’s race, Roger Wray defeated Kevin Thacker, 438 votes to 120 votes.

Grand jury returns indictments
November 3, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments recently. Barry L. Claywell was indicted and charged with Assault 3rd Degree, Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct 2nd Degree and Alcohol Intoxication. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

An unforgettable weekend...Burkesville celebrates 200th birthday
October 27, 2010 Issue
Burkesville or Cumberland County has never witnessed this many visitors...not in a long time at least! Thousands came out during the Bicentennial Celebration and had a GREAT time! If you weren’t there, let’s just say you missed the best birthday party ever held. To see photos click the following link http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1193955972#!/group.php?gid=135582359809885&v=photos

Gilbert loses battle with cancer
October 20, 2010 Issue
A Burkesville man lost his battle with cancer on October 11, 2010. Victor Brooks Gilbert, 22, passed away at Kosair Children’s Hospital in Louisville where he had been for several weeks following a bone marrow transplant in August 2010. Gilbert began battling cancer when he was three years old, and had been in remission for 18 years until March when his cancer returned. When the Burkesville-Cumberland County Community learned the news of Gilbert’s relapse, it rallied around him, having several fundraisers and a bone marrow drive in his honor. He was on every prayer list of the churches throughout the community as well. The community is certainly mourning the loss of this young man.

Grand jury returns indictments
October 13, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments recently. Norman Weston was indicted and charged with Traffikcing in a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree; Danny L. Staten - four counts of Trafficking in Cocaine and four counts of Persistent Felony Offender; Joseph G. Carey - three counts of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree and Trafficking in Marijuana; Andre W. Staten - Trafficking in Cocaine. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Grand jury returns indictments
October 6, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments recently. Jennifer Talley was indicted and charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle While License is Revoked or Suspended for Driving Under the Influence and Operating a Motor Vehicle With Alcohol Concentration of or Above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 4th Offense; Larry Westrater - Possession of a Firearm By a Convicted Felon, Receiving Stolen Property and two counts of Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Michael Birdwell - Rape 3rd Degree, Sodomy 3rd Degree and two counts of Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Bennie Jason Stailey - Flagrant Non Support; Beth Ann Garmon Riley - Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree and Assault 4th Degree; Billy J. Thompson - Complicity to Commit Burglary 2nd Degree; April Thompson - Complicity to Commit Burglary 2nd Degree; Desiree N. Anderson - Burglary 2nd Degree. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Marching Band finishes first in class...twice
September 29, 2010 Issue
Cumberland County’s Marching Band finished first in its class not once, but twice Saturday and achieved its overall goal by qualifying for regional competition.

Color Guard brings home first place
September 22, 2010 Issue
Saturday was a winning night for Cumberland County’s Marching Band Color Guard as they brought home first place honors in Class A at the South Central Kentucky Marching Band Classic at Glasgow High School.

McKinney and Bell awarded Robert Wells Keeton Scholarship
September 15, 2010 Issue
Sam Bell, son of Lindsey and Annette Bell, and Casey McKinney, son of Sandy and Roger McKinney, were awarded the 2010 Robert Wells Keeton Memorial Scholarship.

David Williams enters governor’s race
September 8, 2010 Issue
Kentucky state Sen. David Williams and Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer, both Republicans, entered the 2011 race for the state’s governor and lieutenant governor on Sept. 1.

Brotherly love: Craig to give brother, Brooks bone marrow this week
September 1, 2010 Issue
On Sept. 1, Craig Gilbert, 28, will donate his bone marrow to his brother Brooks, 22, who will receive the stem cells shortly after the procedure starts at Kosair Children’s Hospital in Louisville. Brooks had a relapse in March 2010 to T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Now, a brother’s love will give Brooks another chance in life.

Two injured in motorcycle accident
August 25, 2010 Issue
A Lebanon, Tennessee couple was injured in a motorcycle accident Monday afternoon on Hwy. 214 (Kettle Creek Road). According to Cumberland County Sheriff James Pruitt, John (age 35) and Flora Kunstman (age 41) were traveling east on Hwy. 214 when they lost control and overturned in the ditchline. Flora Kunstman was flown from the scene and taken to Vanderbilt Hospital with head injuries. John Kunstman was taken to Cumberland County Hospital where he was also flown to Vanderbilt. (Note: Flora Kunstman passed away on August 27, 2010.)

Grand jury returns one indictment
August 18, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland Grand Jury returned one indictment on August 12. Randall Blake Hesson was indicted and charged with Flagrant Non Support. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

You must use new 911 address, old address leaving the system soon
August 11, 2010 Issue
Burkesville Postmaster Margaret Norris urges Cumberland County residents to correct and use their new 911 address they received last September. Customers have been receiving their mail with both the old and new address for the past year. After a year the old address ceases to exist. There will no longer be a record of the old address and this mail may be returned to the sender.

Fillingham is new band director
August 11, 2010 Issue
Cumberland County’s Marching Panthers are marching to the beat of a new band director this season. Jordan Fillingham was hired August 2 as the high school’s new band director. He replaces Jonathan Wheatley who left to take a band director’s job in New Mexico.

Grand jury returns indictments
August 4, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on July 29. Donald L. Polston was indicted and charged with three counts of Assault 3rd Degree, Resisting Arrest and Public Intoxication; Dustin Sullivan - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Cody Willis - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Robert Riley - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct and Public Intoxication. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Mother and child escape serious injury
July 28, 2010 Issue
Cumberland County Sheriff James Pruitt said Elizabeth R. Scott, 20, of Burkesville, and her child, escaped serious injury after a one vehicle accident Tuesday morning. According to Pruitt, Scott was traveling northeast on Hwy. 449 when she lost control of her jeep Cherokee and overturned in a gully, landing upside down. Mother and child were transported to Cumberland County Hospital where they were released with no injuries. Seat belts and a child restraint were in use.

Bicentennial Celebration increased to 4 days!
July 21, 2010 Issue
Burkesville’s Bicentennial Celebration, originally scheduled for Oct. 23-24, has been increased to a four-day celebration, Oct. 21-24. The Celebration will kick off with a Beauty Pageant on Thursday, Oct. 21. There are so many events planned and the citizens of Cumberland County are greatly needed to help pull off this monumental event. Please attend the next committee meeting on Thursday, July 29 at 12 noon at J & D Restaurant.

Bicentennial Celebration set for Oct. 23-24
July 14, 2010 Issue
A new committee has been formed to plan the Burkesville Bicentennial Celebration. which has been scheduled for Oct. 23-24. A last minute special called meeting was held Thursday, July 8 at J & D Restaurant with over 30 people in attendance. The next meeting is planned for Friday, July 16 at 12 noon at J & D Restaurant. Please attend the meeting and help plan Burkesville’s 200th birthday celebration!

Peytonsburg man killed in accident
July 7, 2010 Issue
A Peytonsburg man was killed in a one-vehicle accident Monday afternoon, June 28, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Timothy Huff, 29, died in the accident that occurred just after 3 p.m. on Neeley’s Creek Road in Clay County, Tennessee. Huff was driving a 1998 Toyota Camry south when the vehicle ran off the left side of the road and struck a utility pole. After hitting the pole, the car continued traveling south and struck a tree, then continued south and hit another tree before coming to rest.

Grand jury returns indictments
June 30, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury has returned the following indictments. Kevin Humphrey and Daniel R. Settle were both indicted and charged with Flagrant Non Support. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Corps corrects reports on cracks at Wolf Creek Dam
June 30, 2010 Issue
Recent reports that new cracks have suddenly appeared on the roadway over Wolf Creek Dam are inaccurate, the U.S. Army Corps of engineers stated recently. The Corps has been monitoring these cracks for several years, and widening of the cracks were one of the reasons work was suspended in March in the 600-foot section of the dam nearest the concrete embankment.

Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park added to NWS StormReady Program
June 23, 2010 Issue
Two Kentucky state parks are the first state parks in the nation to be designated as StormReady Supporters by the National Weather Service (NWS). Personnel at Lake Cumberland and Dale Hollow Lake State Resort parks in south central Kentucky have completed the NWS training program designed to enhance the safety of park guests and staff in case of severe weather. Representatives from the NWS, the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management and members of the Kentucky General Assembly were included last week at a dedication event at Lake Cumberland’s Lure Lodge with park’s staff and other guests.

Annual 4th of July celebration scheduled for July 3 at park
June 16, 2010 Issue
The Annual 4th of July Celebration, organized by the Burkesville-Cumberland County Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by local businesses, will be held Saturday, July 3 at the Dr. Joseph Schickel Veterans Memorial Park. Activities include a 5K Run at 8 a.m., Bicycle Parade at noon, opening ceremonies at 12:15 p.m., Karaoke Contest, Car Show, Corn Hole Tournament, Horse Shoe Tournament at 1 p.m. Crossfire will perform at 4 p.m. and Borderline at 6 p.m. There will be inflatables for the kids and several new vendors serving bratwurst, snow cones, caramel apples, funnel cakes, along with the hot dogs, hamburgers and tenderloin. Fireworks begin at dark.

Spivey is Class A State Champion in 400m Dash
June 9, 2010 Issue
Cumberland County High School senior Kameron Spivey became the Class A State Champion in the 400m dash at the state meet on June 5 at the University of Louisville Track. He covered the lap around the track in 50.82 seconds. His time also bettered the previous best CCHS time which was held by Craig Smith at 51.20. Spivey has signed a letter of intent with the Track and Field program at Lindsey Wilson College.

Grand jury returns indictments
June 2, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on May 27. Johnny Mark Walker was indicted and charged with Assuming a False Title to Obtain a Controlled Substance and Persistent Felony Offender 1st Degree; Joshua M. Stafford - Possession of Controlled Substances Not in Original Container and Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree; Timmy Branham - two counts of No Registration Receipt, Failure to Maintain Insurance on a Motor Vehicle as Required, Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or Above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 1st Offense, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Manufacturing Methamphetamine and Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Athania Anderson - Flagrant Non Support; Rodney Hopper - Flagrant Non Support; Fate Riley - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition; James “Buddy” Whitlow - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition; Daniel Hardin - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Burkesville awarded $12,000 at Tourism Week event
May 26, 2010 Issue
TOUR Southern and Eastern Kentucky (TOUR SEKY) held its annual National Tourism Week event May 11 at The Center for Rural Development in Somerset. During the ceremony TOUR swarded more than $400,000 through its Community Initiative in Tourism for You (C.I.T.Y.) and Let’s Paint the Touwn programs. The City of Burkesville was awarded $10,000 for a streetscape master plan. Jay Cary with Burkesville Tourism applied for the funding through the C.I.T.Y. program. The City of Burkesville was also awarded $3,000 for the Post Card Project through the “Let’s Paint the Town” program.

Softball Lady Panther signs with St. Catharine College
May 19, 2010 Issue
Senior Lady Panther Softball pitcher, Taylor Davidson, signed a letter of intent last week to play college softball at St. Catharine College in St. Catharine, Kentucky. Taylor has been a Varsity pitcher for the Lady Panthers for the last four years. She is daughter of Todd and Claudine Davidson of Burkesville.

Brewington, Phelps, Thrasher, Wheat, Smith win primary
May 19, 2010 Issue
Nancy Brewington won the Circuit Clerk’s race with 1,817 votes over Vickie Pruitt’s 914 votes. In the County Judge Executive’s race, John Phelps, Jr. won with 750 votes. Following Phelps was Frankie Sells with 510, then Randy Maynard with 453, Tom Watson with 400, Neal Poindexter with 345 and Donna Thurman with 344. Lindsey Bell won the County Attorney’s race with 1,746 votes over incumbent Angie Capps with 1,026. Stacey Thrasher won the Republican nomination for County Clerk with 1,349 votes over Sara Huckelby with 1,152. Thrasher will face incumbent Kim King in the November election. In the Sheriff’s race, Stevie Wheat won with 1,542 votes. Following Wheat was Scot Daniels with 1,120 votes, then Tim Theobald with 99, Josh Willis with 41 and Jack Keen with 29. Wheat will face Democratic candidate Kenny Bean in November. Junior Smith won the Jailer’s race with 1,370 votes. Incumbent Rondall Wray came up short with 1,001 votes followed by Jerry Branham with 226 and Doyle Branham with 197. Incumbent Thomas J. Brown won the Magistrate’s race in the first district with 501 votes over Earl Morrison who had 435 votes. Incumbent Edward Anderson took the Magistrate’s race in the second district with 480 votes. Rocky Branham had 143 votes and Ricky Neal Scott had 39. In the fourth Magisterial District, Ricky L. White won with 428 votes. James Walter Dyer had 161 votes. Steve Manthei finished with 40 votes and Alan Walker had 36. White will face Democratic candidate Mike Garrett in the fall. In the Constable’s race in the first district, incumbent Tony Wright won with 491 votes. Following him was Jimmy Myers with 124 votes, then Joe Harris with 59 and Michael Ruch with 39. Roger Wray won the second district Constable’s race with 349 votes Donnie Thrasher had 135 votes and Dewaun Maxey had 123. Wray will face Democrat candidate Kevin Thacker in November. Incumbent Stanley Smith won the third district Constable’s race with 278 votes over David Willis who had 170 votes. Senator David L. Williams took Cumberland County with 2,080 votes over opponent Denver Capps’ 501 votes in the State Senator’s race. Rand Paul took Cumberland County with 1,192 votes in the U.S. Senator’s Republican race. Trey Grayson was closest behind him with 600 votes. Jack Conway took Cumberland County with 60 votes in the U.S. Senator’s Democratic race. Daniel Mongiardo followed close by with 53 votes.

Young receives Fulbright award
May 12, 2010 Issue
Joseph “Lee” Young of Burkesville is one of 12 University of Louisville scholars selected to study abroad through the Fulbright Student Program, a prestigious international exchange scholarship sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. Young, a spring 2010 U of L graduate, will go to Russia on a Fulbright research grant to study narcotics addicts undergoing treatment at a state hospital in Kazan. He also was awarded the U.S. Department of State’s critical languages scholarships for intensive summer institutes of study in Russia in 2008 and 2009.

Humphrey injured in accident
May 12, 2010 Issue
One person was injured in a one vehicle accident last Wednesday afternoon on Cherry Tree Road. According to Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy Mark Cromwell, Malcolm Humphrey, 65, of Burkesville, was traveling west when he apparently lost control of his Geo Tracker and hit an electric pole. Humphrey, who was not wearing a seat belt, was transported to Cumberland County Hospital then flown to a Louisville hospital with head and hip injuries.

Report says trucker speeding and distracted at time of crash
May 12, 2010 Issue
Kentucky State Police investigating the March 26 crash on Interstate 65 that killed 10 Mennonites claim the tractor-trailer driver whose rig slammed into the van carrying the Esh family near Munfordville was likely speeding and distracted by a phone call when the wreck occurred. Citing a KSP collision report, a Thursday story in The Courier-Journal revealed that Alabama trucker Kenneth E. Laymon could have been goiong as fast as 80 mph when his rig crossed a cable median barrier and struck the passenger van carrying a dozen people, including many Esh family members, north to an Iowa wedding. Laymon also died in the fiery head-on collision which spurred an investigation by KSP and the National Transportation Safety Board. Members of the church close to the Esh family say they have forgiven Laymon for the crash.

Relay for Life raises over $61,000
May 12, 2010 Issue
The local Relay for Life event, held May 7-8, raised $61,256.39 for the American Cancer Society. The team raising the most money was Citizens Bank of Cumberland County with a total of $10,164.18.

Heavy rains, strong winds plague county
May 5, 2010 Issue
“I’ve never seen it like this.” That’s what many citizens of Cumberland county are saying after a weekend of over 9 inches of rain. Greg Cary, Cumberland County Emergency Director, said some parts of the county received 9 1/4 inches of rain and some received 9 1/2 inches. Whatever the amount, damage has been done. Road closures on Sunday included Hwy. 61 North and South, Hwy. 90 West, Hwy 953 (Judio Hill) and Hwy. 3115 (Gray Gap Road). Cary said Tuesday that Hwy. 953 and Hwy. 3115 would be closed at least three weeks so repairs could be made. A tornado warning was issued for Cumberland County on Sunday at 9:47 a.m. Straight line winds at this approximate times caused damage to buildings on Keen Street. Trees and powerlines were downed, and signs and roofs were twisted.

Cumberland County Hospital set for a “once in a lifetime” project, $8.5 million addition
April 28, 2010 Issue
“It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity for this community,” Rick Neikirk, Cumberland County Hospital Administrator, said. Neikirk is referring to the hospital’s opportunity to secure $8.5 million for a 20,000 sqaure foot addition at the hospital which will include 25 patient rooms with five of those larger to accomodate families for extended stays. Also there will be a new pharmacy, physical therapy department, kitchen and dining room and chapel.

Grand jury returns indictments
April 21, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on April 15. Tony M. Spears was indicted and charged with three counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd Degree and six counts of Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree. Cody Key was indicted and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Meticulous investigation underway in crash that killed 9 local residents
April 14, 2010 Issue
Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board looking at what caused a fatal crash on Interstate 65 that killed 11 people on March 26 left Kentucky a few days ago. Their work, however, is far from complete. On-site investigators from the NTSB arrives at the crash scene March 26, just hours after a southbound tractor-trailer crossed a median on I-65 in Hart County and collided head-on with a northbound van carrying 12 people.

PRIDE offers $11,500 to county and city for Spring Cleanup
April 7, 2010 Issue
During PRIDE spring Cleanup Month in April, PRIDE will award up to $11,500 to Cumberland County and Burkesville to dispose of roadside litter, remove dumps or offer free trash drop-off events. April also is Redbud Month, and the county and city can get free Redbud trees to plant.

Tragic accident leaves 11 dead, 8 in local Esh family
March 31, 2010 Issue
A tragic accident Friday morning has left a community grieving for a family who has lost eight members and two close friends. The Esh family of Marrowbone was traveling to Iowa for a wedding when a tractor trailer on I-65 left the road, plowed over a cable barrier in the median before entering oncoming traffic and striking the Esh van head-on. The accident occurred in Hart County between Munfordville and Horse Cave. Dead are John and Sadie Esh, their daughters, Anna, Rose and Rachel, their son, Leroy and his wife, Naomi and their son, Jalen. Joel Gingerich, who was engaged to Rachel, was also killed, and a family friend, Ashlie Kramer of Franklin. Surviving the accident were Leroy and Naomi’s sons, Josiah and Johnny, who were treated and released at an unidentified hospital. The driver of the tractor trailer, Kenneth Laymon of Danville, Alabama, was also killed. Authorities still do not know what caused Laymon to cross the median.

Grand jury returns indictments
March 31, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments. David H. Cash was indicted and charged with Flagrant Non Support; Martrel Blewett - Flagrant Non Support; Johnny Daniels - Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or Above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 2nd Offense and Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Campaign signs will be removed from state right of way
March 24, 2010 Issue
As the political campaign season heats up, Kentucky department of Highways crews face an increasing number of campaign signs on the state highway right of way - signs that must be removed for safety purposes. Illegal signs will be moved to the state highway garage in each county and kept for two weeks. Owners may claim them by showing identification and completing a claim form. Unclaimed signs will be discarded.

Corps of Engineers announces partial suspension of work at Wolf Creek Dam
March 17, 2010 Issue
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nashville District announced last week a partial suspension of work on the Wolf Creek Dam Safety Major Rehabilitation Project in Jamestown, Ky. Instrumentation used to monitor the foundation has indicated movement and increased hydrostatic pressure since work began in the area adjacent to the concrete section of the dam, which includes Critical Area 1.

Branham arrested for meth lab
March 17, 2010 Issue
A Burkesville man was arrested Friday in connection with a methamphetamine lab in his vehicle. According to Burkesville Police Chief Stevie Wheat, Timmy W. Branham, 47, was stopped at Jimmy’s Food Mart parking lot by Officer Kenny Brown for expired registration. Branham consented to a search of his vehicle and a methamphetamine lab was found under the hood of the vehicle. Officer Lawrence Nettles disassembled the lab. Branham was arrested and charged with Expired Registration Plate, Expired Registration Receipt, No Insurance, DUI, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Manufacturing Methamphetamine. He was taken to Adair County Regional Jail..

CCHS Academic Team takes first place; CCMS Jr. Beta takes first place overall
March 10, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County High School Academic Team received first place overall in the Governor’s Cup Competition on Feb. 4-5 and will compete at the regional level. The Cumberland County Middle School Jr. Beta Club took first place overall out of 100 schools at the Jr. Beta Club State Convention March 3-5.

Taylor inducted into Kentucky Auctioneers Hall of Fame
March 3, 2010 Issue
Malcolm L. Taylor was inducted into the Kentucky Auctioneers Hall of Fame on February 14 during the annual state convention held at the Holiday Inn-University Plaza in Bowling Green.

Two injured in accident last Thursday
February 24, 2010 Issue
Two local teenagers were injured in a two-vehicle accident last Thursday afternoon on Hwy. 90 West. according to Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy Mark Cromwell, Mykayla Harris, 19, of Burkesville was turning left onto Hwy. 90 from Hwy. 2276 (Alpine Road) and pulled in the path of Charles A. Gibson, 41, of Albany, who was traveling east. Harris was extricated from the vehicle by the Burkesville Volunteer Fire Department and flown to the University of Louisville Hospital. Her passenger, Ariel Thompson, 19, of Burkesville was taken to Cumberland County Hospital and admitted. Gibson and his passenger, Dale Hurd, 33, of Bronston, were not injured.

Wheat achieves 1,000 points
February 17, 2010 Issue
Panther Shaun Wheat has reached the 1,000-point mark. “We were really proud of Shaun’s accomplishment,” Head Coach Brandon Combs said. “He has stayed in the top 2 or 3 all year in field goal percentage and has played pretty steady for us for his four years. Shaun is a competitor and works very hard to get the most out of his ability.”

Grand jury returns indictments
February 10, 2010 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on January 28. Darian C. Riddle was indicted and charged with Theft of Identity, Burglary 3rd Degree and two counts of Persistent Felony Offender 1st Degree; Angela R. Riddle - Theft of Identity, Burglary 3rd Degree and two counts of Persistent Felony Offender 1st Degree; Roy A. Waid - Theft of Identity, Burglary 3rd Degree and two counts of Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Howard D. Glidewell - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition and Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd Degree; John Bertrum - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition and Burglary 3rd Degree; Benji Christopher Flatt - Flagrant Non Support; Jonathan Filbert - Flagrant Non Support and Persistent Felony Offender 1st Degree; Scott D. Ford - Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Michael Groulx - Rape 2nd Degree. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

One injured in accident on South Main
February 3, 2010 Issue
One person was injured in a two-vehicle accident Monday morning on South Main Street. According to Burkesville Police Chief Stevie Wheat, Leticia King of Burkesville was making a left-hand turn onto Keen Street when she pulled into the path of Patrick Stotts of Columbia, who was traveling north. King was taken to Cumberland County Hospital where she was treated and released. Stotts was not injured.

Coe House listed on National Register of Historic Places
January 27, 2010 Issue
The Coe House, located at 433 North Main Street, Burkesville, has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The listing of this property began with an application process, followed by an appeal to the Kentucky Heritage Council. The Heritage Council voted in September to nominate the property as a historic resource within the state of Kentucky. At the end of December, the National Register approved the property for listing.

Lost tombstones removed from steps of Burks home
January 20, 2010 Issue
This past week the original home of Ishum Burks, the man Burkesville was named for, was torn down to make way for the new Burkesville Community Church.Civil War tombstones were being used as steps on this property and were recovered.

Clinton County man injured
January 13, 2010 Issue
A Clinton County man was injured in a car vs. tractor accident last Wednesday night. According to Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy Randy Abernathy, David King of Burkesville, was attempting to cross Hwy. 90 East when he was struck by a car driven by Kendrick Flowers of Albany who was traveling east. Flowers was transported to Clinton County Hospital.

Circuit Clerk Jones retires after 34 years
January 6, 2010 Issue
After 34 years in the Circuit Clerk’s Office, Hazel Jones has retired. Her last day was December 30.Jones was Chief Deputy Circuit Clerk from 1976 until 1994. She was appointed Circuit Clerk in 1994 after Clerk Paul E. Spear died. Jones was then elected to the position in 1995.

CCHS Beta Club attend State Convention
December 30, 2009 Issue
The Cumberland County High School Beta Club recently attended the State Convention in Louisville. The club brought home several awards. Hannah Cooper received first place in pencil drawing, on-site colored pencil drawing, banner competition and weaving. She received third place for her collage in pencil. The club’s skit received third place and the scrapbook placed first. The club received third place in overall sweepstakes. Candi Graves was awarded the Harris Leadership Award.

CCMS Academic Team is overall champion
December 23, 2009 Issue
The Cumberland County Middle School Academic Team competed in Monroe County on December 4 and captured the title of Overall Champion of the 14th Region.

Grand jury returns indictments
December 16, 2009 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments recently. Michael J. Turner was indicted and charged with Receiving Stolen Property; Barbara J. Wright - Receiving Stolen Property and Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Tara Copas - Receiving Stolen Property and Persistent Felony Offender 1st Degree. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Fire destroys Esh home
December 9, 2009 Issue
A home was destroyed and one person was injured in a fire early last Thursday morning, December 3 in Marrowbone. According to Marrowbone Fire Department Chief Eddie Branham, three fire departments, Marrowbone, Burkesville and Breeding, responded to a fire around 5:45 a.m. at the home of John and Sadie Esh on Hwy. 90 in Marrowbone. Sadie Esh was injured in the fire and was taken to Clinton County Hospital. She has been released. Branham said the cause of the fire was possible electrical.

County addressing audit finished
December 2, 2009 Issue
The addressing audit is complete for Cumberland County. A review of addresses for the city of Burkesville recently finished. City address changes will go out before year end.

Grand jury returns indictments
November 25, 2009 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on November 12. Jeffrey Neal Scott was indicted and charged with Flagrant Non Support; Thomas Wayne Spears - Flagrant Non Support; Desiree N. Anderson - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition; April Anderson Thompson - Complicity to Theft By Unlawful Taking Over $300; Billy James Thompson - Complicity to Theft By Unlawful Taking Over $300; Linda S. Rhoton - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree Cocaine, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree Meth; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Criminal Trespass 3rd Degree; Scott D. Ford - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree Cocaine, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Fleeing or Evading Police 1st Degree and Criminal Trespass 3rd Degree; Eddie L. Huddleston - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree Cocaine, Possession of a Controlled Sbustance 1st Degree Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Criminal Trespass 3rd Degree.

CCMS Boys 8th Grade take second place
November 18, 2009 Issue
The Cumberland County Middle School 8th grade boys took second place in the Adair County basketball tournament.

Candidates begin filing for office
November 11, 2009 Issue
And the race begins. Last Wednesday, November 4 was the first day candidates could file for an office. Twenty-one have filed as of 12;30 p.m. Tuesday, November 10.

Local man killed in accident
November 4, 2009 Issue
A Burkesville man was killed in a two-vehicle accident Friday afternoon, October 30 on Hwy. 61 South, approximately 8 1/2 miles south of Burkesville. according to Cumberland County Sheriff james Pruitt, James R. Hodgson, 23, of Burkesville, operating a motorcyle, was traveling north on Hwy. 61 and passing two vehicles when Leslie Groce, 75, of Burkesville, made a left-hand turn onto Hwy. 61 into the path of Hodgson who hit Groce in the front left side. Hodgson was pronounced dead at the scene.

Three injured in accident
October 28, 2009 Issue
Three people were injured in a two-car accident last Tuesday afternoon on Hwy. 61 South in front of Moon’s Station. According to Cumberland County Sheriff James Pruitt, Carol Cutshall, 40, of Burkesville, was attempting a left hand turn into Moon’s Station when she was rear-ended by Bernal McCool, 67, of Dubre. Rachel Cutshall, 20, a passenger in Carol’s vehicle, was extricated from the vehicle by the Burkesville Fire Department, and flown from the scene to the University of Louisville Hospital where she is listed in stable condition. Carol and her other passenger, Emma Craft, 4, were transported to Cumberland County Hospital. McCool was not injured.

Vincent wins state award
October 21, 2009 Issue
Dakota Vincent has won the Kentucky School Media Association Technology Award that recognizes an outstanding K-12 student who has demonstrated leadership through technology activities coordinated with the school curriculum and community involvement.

Cumberland Valley Manor receives award
October 14, 2009 Issue
Cumberland Valley Manor Skilled Nursing and Rehab Center was awarded the Kentucky Initiative for Quality Nursing Home Best Practices Award. This award is presented in recognition for exemplary best practices that serve as a model for other nursing homes to adopt in order to enhance the quality of care that is provided to all residents.

School out rest of week for suspected cases of H1N1
October 7, 2009 Issue
Superintendent of Cumberland County Schools John Hurt has canceled school for Wednesday and Thursday, October 7-8, as a result of consistently increasing numbers of suspected and confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza in school age children and the number of student and staff absentees over the past few school days. Schools were scheduled to be out Friday, October 9 for a staff work day which has also been canceled. Fall break is next week, October 12-16. School will reopen on October 19.

Grand jury returns indictments
September 30, 2009 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on September 24. Stacy Collins was indicted and charged with Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd Degree, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree and Possession of a Controlled Substance Not in Original Container; John Brown - Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or Above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 1st Offense, Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree, Possession of a Controlled Substance Not in Original Prescription Container and Failure to Use Seat Belt; Shannon Proffitt - Burglary 3rd Degree and Burglary 2nd Degree. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Diesel spill keeps local officials busy last Thursday
September 23, 2009 Issue
A flatbed truck was stopped at the Metcalfe County line last Thursday after spilling approximately 70-75 gallons of diesel on roadways from Hwy. 1590 in Clinton County to Hwy. 90 West in Cumberland County. Officials received the call around 1:19 p.m.

Daniels dies as result of accident
September 16, 2009 Issue
Bonnie Daniels, 82, of Burkesville, died last Wednesday night at the University of Louisville Hospital after sustaining injuries in a one vehicle accident that same afternoon. According to Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy Randy Abernathy, Daniels apparently lost control of her Dodge Intreprid while moving the car from the yard and hit a tree. She was transported to Cumberland County Hospital and then flown to Louisville where she later died.

911 address changes beginning this week
September 9, 2009 Issue
As part of a continuous improvement effort, the Cumberland County Emergency 911 Board is conducting a quality control audit of street addresses in Cumberland County. We are well into this process and have found numerous addresses that need to be changed Address change letters are beginning to go out this week and may continue for a few months. This is a long process. Please be patient.

Cumberland Valley Manor is “Evening of Hope” sponsor
September 9, 2009 Issue
Cumberland Valley Manor is a Gold level sponsor of the Third Annual Esther’s Evening of Hope Dinner and Reverse Raffle which will be held October 10 at 6 p.m. in the Ray Mullinix Conference Center at the Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park. For a donation of $100 you will receive two dinners and one ticket for an opportunity to walk away with $5,000. You do not have to be present to win. For more information call 270-433-2400 or 406-3193 or visit www.estherhouseky.org. The Esther House is a long-term home for battered women and their children and provides a safe environment to allow women to grow spiritually, emotionally and physically.

Coe House being considered for listing in National Register of Historic Places
September 2, 2009 Issue
The Kentucky Historic Preservation Review Board will consider nine nominations for listing in the National Register of Historic Places during its next meeting Thursday, September 3 at Eastern Kentucky University. One of the nine nominations is located in Burkesville. Coe House, 433 North Main Street, was nominated. The Coe House is noted for being significant architecturally as a good local example of Princess Anne styling, a simplified form of Queen Anne, which is a nationally recognized style of the Victorian era. The house was purchased through a Sears, Roebuck and Co. catalog in 1908, the first year the precut homes were available for purchase. According to the nomination, the two-story frame house features an asymmetrical floor plan and is important for ushering in a new era of simplified home styling, fusing late Queen Anne and early Colonial Revival styles.

Local Veterans take Honor Flight
August 26, 2009 Issue
On August 20, 80 World War II Veterans departed Louisville for Washington, D.C. They were off to visit the memorial that was built and dedicated to them. Three of those Veterans aboard this “Honor Flight” were from Cumberland County. They were Louis (Louie) Keller, 90, Julius (Steve) Stephenson, 89, and Kenneth Ballou, 84.

Albany man seriously injured
August 26, 2009 Issue
An Albany man was seriously injured on August 18 on Hwy. 90 West. According to Deputy Scot Daniels, Warren Keefer, 62, was traveling east on Hwy. 90 near the junction of Hwy. 100, when he lost control on the slick roadway, went off the roadway, hit an embankment and overturned. Keefer was ejected from this truck. He was taken to Cumberland County Hospital then flown to the University of Louisville Hospital.

One vehicle accident
August 19, 2009 Issue
Police responded to a one vehicle accident last Wednesday evening on Hwy. 449. According to Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy Randy Abernathy, Kandra Harris, 20, of Burkesville, was traveling east when she lost control in a curve and struck a utility pole. Harris was wearing a seat belt and was not injured.

Local artist Billy Guffey interviewed by ABC News
August 12, 2009 Issue
Cumberland County News employee, Billy Guffey was recently interviewed by ABC News. The 3-page article was posted on the website, abcnews.com, on Tuesday, August 11, and included many photographs of Guffey¹s paintings along with the references he used to create the artwork. The story focused on Billy¹s use of Google Street View to travel the world virtually and paint scenes from other countries as well as many here in the United States. The article can be found at http://abcnews.go.com/technology/story?id=8295043&page=1. Or you can go to abcnews.go.com/technology and search for the story. Billy was also recently interviewed by WKYU-PBS, located in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This interview will be aired at a later date still to be determined.

Airport Board approves New Hope site
August 12, 2009 Issue
The Clinton-Cumberland County Airport Board has approved the top site selection recommended by engineers. This will allow ENTRAN to submit the top site of New Hope to the State Division of Aviation and FAA for final approval. The board meets again on August 25 at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Center in Burkesville.

State Board awards $150,000 for local ag investment program
August 5, 2009 Issue
The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board, chaired by Gov. Steve Beshear, approved $150,000 in Cumberland County Agricultural Development Funds for a County Agricultural Investment Program at their monthly business meeting. The Clinton/Cumberland Cattlemen’s Association Inc. submitted a proposal to the Cumberland County Agricultural Development Council and the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board to provide cost-share incentives to area farmers.

Grand jury returns indictments
July 29, 2009 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on July 23. Charles W. Massie, 60, was indicted and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, Trafficking in Marijuana and Assault 4th Degree. Bobby Amonett, 41, was indicted and charged with Unlawful Procurement of Controlled Substance. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Two arrested on drug charges, inactive meth lab in vehicle
July 22, 2009 Issue
Two Albany residents were arrested on drug charges Friday evening on South Main Street at the Burkesville First United Methodist Church parking lot. Arrested were John H. Brown and Stacy Collins, both 29. Police discovered pills and an inactive meth lab in the vehicle being driven by Brown who was charged with Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Controlled Substance Not in Original Container, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Controlled Substance 1st Degree, Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Drugs/Alcohol 1st Offense and No Seat Belts. Collins was charged with Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Controlled Substnace Not in Original Container, Possession of Controlled Substance 1st Degree and Possession of Controlled Substance 3rd Degree.

New York man arrested here on drug charges
July 15, 2009 Issue
A Syracuse, New York man was arrested here last week on drug charges. According to Cumberland County Sheriff¹s Deputy Scot Daniels, police were summoned to 1810 Carter Branch Road, 10 miles west of Burkesville on a domestic call. After an investigation and search of the home, police confiscated marijuana, a gun, drug paraphernalia and a large amount of cash. Charles W. Massie, 60, was arrested and charged with Assault 4th, Trafficking in Marijuana, more than 8 ounces, less than 5 pounds Firearm Enhanced; Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Massie was lodged in the Adair County Jail.

Abney seriously injured in accident
July 8, 2009 Issue
Nathaniel D. Abney, 24, of Burkesville, was seriously injured in a one vehicle accident last Wednesday afternoon on Dug Hollow Road. According to Cumberland County Deputy Sheriff Scot Daniels, Abney was traveling south when he left the roadway and struck an embankment. Abney was taken to Cumberland County Hospital then airlifted to the University of Louisville Hospital where he was listed in stable condition.

Most critical section of Wolf Creek Dam rehabilitation to be completed by fall 2010
July 1, 2009 Issue
The most critical section of the wall at Wolf Creek Dam will be completed by October 2010, the US Army Corps of Engineers Nashville District has announced.

One vehicle accident, no injuries
June 24, 2009 Issue
No one was injured in a one vehicle accident last Wednesday afternoon on State Park Road. According to Cumberland County Sheriff James Pruitt, Jacob Marx, 18, of Burkesville, was traveling north when he apparently lost control of his vehicle and overturned.

Relay for Life raises over $50,000
June 17, 2009 Issue
The annual American Cancer Society Relay for Life event was held last Friday night. Approximately $50,415.28 was raised. Ten teams made up this year’s event.

Kentucky Mesonet expanding to Cumberland County
June 10, 2009 Issue
The Kentucky Mesonet is expanding its weather and climate monitoring network to Cumberland County. A Mesonet station is being installed this week at the James Garmon Jr. farm. More than 20 Mesonet sites are operational statewide collecting real-time weather and climate data on temperature, precipitation, humidity, solar radiation, wind speed and direction. Data is packaged into observations every five minutes and transmitted to the Kentucky Climate Center at WKU every five minutes, 24 hours per day, throughout the year. The data is available online at www.kymesonet.org.

Carhartt to close Marrowbone sortation facility, 17 jobs lost
June 3, 2009 Issue
Carhartt, a Michigan-based manufacturer of premium workwear, Tuesday announced the closing of its Marrowbone, Kentucky sortation facility, resulting in a loss of 17 jobs. The facility will cease operations around Saturday, August 1.

Jury finds Hill not guilty
May 27, 2009 Issue
After a four-day trial here, a Celina, Tennessee man has been found not guilty of murder. Robert Hill, Sr. of Celina was arrested in February 2008 after an altercation with Kenneth “Bubbles” Huddleston, who had ties to Cumberland County, but resided in Celina. Hill and Huddleston were involved in the altercation on Ashlcok Road in Cumberland County when Huddleston was shot and then later died from his injuries. The trial began on May 11 and ended on May 14..

Expect delays on KY 61/KY 90 with ongoing construction
May 20, 2009 Issue
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s District Eight office announces ongoing construction of the design/build project on KY 61 and KY 90. This project was awarded to ATS/Gaddie-Shamrock on September 19, 2007. All work is subject to weather delays.

Indoor marijuana confiscated on Hegira Road
May 13, 2009 Issue
Kentucky State Police Post 15 Columbia received an anonymous tip of an indoor marijuana growing operation on Hegira Road in Cumberland County recently. Troopers responded to the scene and through investigation they located an indoor marijuana grow yielding 203 marijuana plants, as well as growing equipment. Arrests are pending and the investigation continues by the Kentucky State Police.

Grand jury returns indictments
May 6, 2009 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments recently. Jim Webb was indicted and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Marijuana; Douglas E. Matthews - Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd Degree; Billy J. Rasdall - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree; Keith A. Long - Receiving Stolen Property; Garon Garrett - Operating a Motor Vehicle While License is Revoked or Suspended for Driving Under the Influence, aggravating circumstances, Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or Above 0.08, or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 2nd Offense, Possession of Controlled Substances Not in Original Container, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree, and two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd Degree; Miranda Neal - Giving a Peace Officer a False Name or Address, Driving on Suspended or Revoked Operator’s License, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Kylie Ortiz - Possession of Controlled Substance 1st Degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Shannon Smith - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree and Possession of Controlled Substances Not in Original Container; Johnny Lee Daniels - Criminal Attempt to Commit Burglary 2nd Degree. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

 Williams sisters involved in accidents
April 29, 2009 Issue
Hannah Williams, 18, and her sister, Haven Williams, 16, both of Burkesville, were both involved in accidents last week. On Monday, April 20, around 7:00 p.m., Hannah Williams, driving a 2004 Ford Mustang, pulled onto Garmon’s Ferry Road from the Burkesville Fertilizer parking lot when she apparently hydroplaned, went into a ditch, hit a tree and then overturned. Hannah and her passenger, Kayla Dicken, 18, were taken to Cumberland County Hospital, treated and released. Both were wearing seat belts. On Thursday, April 23, around 6:50 a.m., Haven Williams, driving a 2004 Saturn Ion, was traveling north on South KY 61 when she lost control and hit a bluff on the left side of the roadway. Haven and her passenger, Hannah, were taken to Cumberland County Hospital, treated and released.

Long killed in plane crash in Metcalfe County
April 22, 2009 Issue
A Cumberland County man was killed in a plane crash Saturday afternoon in Metcalfe County. According to authorities, David Mickael “Beuf” Long, 51, of Burkesville, was flying his single-engine plane when he crashed in Metcalfe County near the Cumberland County line, off of Ferris Creek Road. The crash occurred around 4:30 p.m. A witness told police that he saw the plane “flopping in the air, and then the plane did a nose dive straight to the ground.” Long was the only person on the plane.

No opposition voiced to airport project at last week’s public meeting
April 15, 2009 Issue
The long awaited public meeting process to hear comments and answer questions from the public about the proposed joint Clinton-Cumberland County airport and the final three sites selected was held last Tuesday night, April 7 at the Veterans Memorial Community Center in Burkesville. And, unlike such public gatherings in past decades, no opposition to the proposed project was voiced.

One injured in Monday night wreck
April 8, 2009 Issue
A Cumberland county woman was injured in a one vehicle accident Monday night on Allen’s Creek Road. According to Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy Randy Abernathy, Ashley Powell Moolhuizen, 25, was traveling north on Allen’s Creek Road when she lost control of her vehicle, ran off the road and over an embankment, landing upside down in a creek. She was taken to Cumberland County Hospital.

Carey killed in Sunday early morning accident
April 1, 2009 Issue
A Burkesville man was killed in a one vehicle accident early Sunday morning on Hwy. 61 South, approximately 3 1/2 miles from Burkesville. According to Kentucky State Police, James D. Carey, 52, of Burkesville, was traveling north when he left the roadway and struck a fence post, a tree, then a vehicle parked in a private driveway. His vehicle came to a final rest in the ditch line. Carey was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy is pending. Trooper Kenny Perkins is investigating.

Homeland Security grants received
March 25, 2009 Issue
On March 18, the Honorable Governor Steve Beshear visited the Lake Cumberland Area Development District (LCADD) office in Russell Springs where he presented two Kentucky Office of Homeland Security grants totaling $242,000 to the agency for distribution to emergency service entities in Adair, Clinton, Cumberland, McCreary and Russell counties. The Cumberland County 911 Center received $5,863.

Maynard receives Medal for Freedom
March 18, 2009 Issue
Governor Steve Beshear presented 38 Kentucky Medals for Freedom Friday, March 13 to the families of 15 Kentucky military members who died in combat. Cumberland County resident Stella Maynard, mother of fallen soldier, Stephen P. Downing, II, was one of those receiving a medal. SPC Downing, US Army was killed October 28, 2004 while conducting combat operations in Ramadi, Iraq. He was 30.

Grand jury returns indictments
March 11, 2009 Issue
TheCumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments. Carl Spears was indicted and charged with two counts of Murder and Tampring with Physical Evidence; Tracy J. Tweedy - Possession of Marijuana, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree and Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or Above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 1st Offense; Doris C. Norris - two counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Prescription 1st Offense and Theft of Prescription Blank for a Controlled Substance; Casey Hayes - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition and Criminal Mischief 1st Degree; Brandi Farlee - Theft By Deception; Louise Cary - Possession of Marijuana, Trafficking in Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Illegal Sale/Give Alcohol Dry Territory 1st Offense; Donald Polston - Fleeing or Evading Police 1st Degree, Operating a Motor Vehicle While License is Revoked or Suspended for Driving Under the Influence and Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or Above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 4th Offense, aggravating circumstances; Ritchie Dean Lawson - two counts of Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition and two counts of Tampering with Physical Evidence; William D. Lewis, Jr. - Unlawful Transactions with a Minor 2nd Degree; Jimmie Dawn Abney - three counts of Unlawful Transactions with a Minor 1st Degree, Endangering Welfare of a Minor, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, two counts of Unlawful Transactions with a Minor 2nd Degree, two counts of Unlawful Transactions with a Minor 3rd Degree and Possession of Marijuana; Johnie R. Stines - two counts of Unlawful Transactions with a Minor 2nd Degree, two counts of Unlawful Transactions with a Minor 3rd Degree, three counts of Unlawful Transactions with a Minor 1st Degree, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Panthers win district championship
March 4, 2009 Issue
The Panthers defeated the Lakers of Russell County, 57-41 to win the District Championship on Friday night.

PRIDE offers $14,000 to Burkesville, Cumberland County for Spring Cleanup
February 25, 2009 Issue
April is PRIDE Spring Cleanup Month in southern and eastern Kentucky. If Cumberland County and Burkesville participate, they can receive up to $14,000 from PRIDE to pay for roadside cleanups and beautifucation projects. April also is Redbud Month, and they can get free redbuds to plant.

Arrest of local man solves 30-year old murder case
February 18, 2009 Issue
Last Tuesday’s arrest of a local man has Indiana authorities announcing they have solved a 30-year old murder case. Marion, Indiana investigators announced last Wednesday that charges were filed on Monday, Feb. 9 in Grant Superior Court against Alfred Solomon, 67, of Cumberland County, in the 1979 murder of Terry Headley in Marion. Solomon was also charged with robbery resulting in serious bodily injury. Solomon was arrested without incident at the Spray N Shine Car Wash by Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy Scot Daniels who had received a fugitive from justice warrant on Solomon.

Three arrested in meth lab bust on Columbia Road
February 11, 2009 Issue
Three Burkesville residents were arrested Saturday night ater an active methamphetamine (meth) lab was discovered at a Columbia Road residence. Arrested were Paula E. Bryant, 33, Bernice Michelle Stearns, 26 and Timmy Graham, 39.

Man shot entering Groce home
February 4, 2009 Issue
A Cumberland County man was shot early Saturday morning on Highway 61, 12 miles south of Burkesville, at the home of Ada Groce. Ada Groce, 78, of Burkesville, told police that a man was jerking on her door, trying to enter her house. According to Cumberland County Sheriff James Pruitt, Groce said she warned the person not to come in, then shot Johnny Lee Daniels, 28, of Burkesville, as the door came open. Daniels was shot in the side of the head.
Daniels was taken to the Cumberland County Hospital then transferred by ambulance to Vanderbilt Hospital in Nashville, Tennessee where he was listed
in stable condition at presstime, but was on a ventilator. Pruitt was assisted at the scene by the Burkesville City Police and the Kentucky State Police. The shooting remains under investigation by Sheriff James Pruitt. No charges have been filed at this time.

CCMS takes top honors in Governor’s Cup Competition
January 28, 2009 Issue
Cumberland County Middle School Academic Team dominated at the District Governor's Cup Competition in Edmonton on Saturday, January 24, in both group and individual competitions. The CCMS Academic Team also took home the first place overall trophy.

Two dead, one arrested
January 21, 2009 Issue
Two Cumberland County men were found dead at a residence on Judio Road last Wednesday night, January 14. Cumberland County Dispatch notified Kentucky State Police at around 10 p.m. of a possible homicide at 3951 Judio Road, the home of Kenneth Spears. Upon arrival, two individuals were observed inside the residence and appeared to be unreponsive. Kenneth Spears, 38, and Timmy Medlin, 45, both of Burkesville, had been stabbed multiple times. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene by the Cumberland County Coroner Gary White. Carl Spears, 57, of Burkesville, was arrested and charged with one count of murder. Detective Mike Dubree is continuing the investigation.

2008-2009 Homecoming Queen Crowned
January 14, 2009 Issue
This year’s Cumberland County High School Homecoming Queen, Brianna Groce, was crowned Friday night between the boys and girls varsity basketball games against the Lakers of Russell County Her court included freshman Kimberly Spears, sophomore Maggie Brown, junior Kayte Owens and senior Tonya Farlee. Congratulations!

Weather, TVA’s October rate increase result in higher electric bills
January 7, 2009 Issue
Mild temperatures in October and the first part of November prevented TVA’s October 1st rate increase from seriously impacting many Tri-County Electric member-owners. Unfortunately colder weather has caused the TVA rate increase to be felt by everyone. In the thirty one day billing cycle of November 17th through December 18th, there were 18 days that the low temperature was below 30° and on 10 of those days the low temperature was below 25°. Tri-County Electric did not have a rate increase and will receive no additional revenue from TVA’s 20% wholesale rate increase (17% retail rate increase) that went into effect October 1, 2008. Tri-County Electric informed their member-owners of TVA’s rate increase in September and Paul Thompson, Executive V.P. & General Manager, explained “as a distributor of TVA power, when higher prices force TVA to increase its rates, we must pass those costs along to our customers.”

Local FSA office to close
December 31, 2008 Issue
Jeffery S. Hall, State Executive Director announced that Kentucky has received approval to close 13 local Service Center Offices in the final phase of restructuring that began in 1997. The Burkesville FSA Service Center will be consolidated with the Albany Service Center in Clinton County effective January 8, 2009. The FSA Office in Albany is located at 801B Tennessee Road, toll free telephone 1-888-758-6912. “Consolidation of offices is necessary due to the reduced staffing and continued budget cuts,” said Hall. “The restructuring process began in 2005, when Kentucky’s staffing was cut by 51 employees. With the end of the tobacco price support program and the enactment of the Tobacco Transition Payment Program, our staffing and funding levels were reduced significantly.” FSA delivers programs that improve the economic viability of American agriculture. The Agency meets this goal through direct payments, commodity and facility loans, assistance to cover natural disasters, and programs to promote good environmental stewardship. FSA extends credit to family farmers who are unable to obtain credit from conventional sources. Information of FSA programs is available at the local FSA county Office on on-line at www.fsa.usda.gov/ky.

One injured in accident
December 24, 2008 Issue
A Celina man was injured in an one vehicle accident last Thursday afternoon on Hwy. 61 North. According to the Cumberland County Sheriff¹s Office, Jason Gray, 36, of Celina, Tennessee was traveling south on Hwy. 61 when he apparently lost control and went off the roadway and struck a utility pole. Gray was transported to Cumberland County Hospital and then transferred to the University of Kentucky Hospital by ambulance. Sheriff¹s Deputy Randy Abernathy was the investigating officer. He was assisted by the Burkesville Police Department and the Burkesville Fire Department.

Grand jury returns indictments
December 17, 2008 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments. Linda Vibbert was indicted and charged with Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd Degree; Tracy Cecil - Fraud or False Statements in Obtaining Assistance Benefits; Christopher D. New - Manslaughter 2nd Degree, Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree, Leaving Scene of Accident/Failure to Render Aid or Assistance and Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or Above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 1st Offense. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Hospital implements tobacco-free campus policy, begins Jan. 1
December 10, 2008 Issue
Cumberland County Hospital has committed to going tobacco-free on January 1, 2009. As of that date, no tobacco use of any kind will be permitted ­ inside or outside ­ on hospital property. This initiative also will include the elimination of designated areas outside Cumberland County Hospital where employees, patients and visitors currently use tobacco products. Cumberland County Hospital has joined national and state efforts to reduce the negative health effects of tobacco use on the community. As a health care organization, they are committed to the health and safety of our employees and patients. They believe that they have a responsibility to take a leadership role on this major health issue, and allowing people to use tobacco products defeats this purpose. More than 8,000 die every year in Kentucky due to tobacco-related diseases. Tobacco use in and around hospitals poses health and safety risks for patients, employees and visitors. Cumberland County Hospital’s decision to go tobacco-free is not an attempt to “force” anyone to quit using tobacco products. Rather, the tobacco-free initiative demonstrates their ongoing commitment to improving the health of our community. They are asking for community support in Cumberland County Hospital’s tobacco-free initiative as we move toward January 1, 2009.

Cope killed in tragic accident
December 3, 2008 Issue
A tragic accident early Thanksgiving morning has claimed the life of a Cumberland County woman. On Thursday, November 27 at approximately 3:30 a.m., at 120 Garmon Ferry Road, Melissa Maggie Cope, 26, of Burkesville was struck by a vehicle driven by Christopher New, 20, of Bowling Green. Cope was pronounced dead at the scene by Cumberland County Coroner Gary White. New was charged with Manslaughter 2nd Degree, Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree, Driving Under the Influence and Leaving the Scene of an Accident. He was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail. Brad Norris, 27, of Burkesville, was a passenger in the vehicle. Burkesville Police Officers Junior Smith and Brad Perdue are investigating the accident. Assisting at the scene were Cumberland County Sheriff¹s Deputy Mark Cromwell and Constable Tony Wright.

Local author to conduct book reading at library
November 26, 2008 Issue
Children’s book author, and new Burkesville resident, Elise Lael Kieffer will be conducting a book reading of her Christmas story, “The Littlest Star.” The reading will be in the children’s area at the Cumberland County Library on Thursday, December 4, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. The book tells the classic story of Jesus’ birth from a unique perspective, that of the Christmas star. This star, the Littlest Star, was the most unlikely choice for this important job, but she learns that God can use anyone, even her. She discovers that God has a purpose for everyone, no matter how small or unlikely they seem to others. It is an inspiring story that will entertain people of all ages. You will both laugh and be touched by the simple message this book communicates. The book features eye-popping illustrations and a timeless story of faith. This is Mrs. Kieffer’s first book. She has worked in such illustrious venues as the Nashville Children’s Theatre, ranked by TIME magazine as one of the top five children’s theatres in the nation, and other theatres around the country. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music Theatre and a Masters Degree from Tennessee State University. She currently works in non-profit fundraising. Along with her husband and son, she just moved to Burkesville from New York. If you are moved by the story you will be happy to know that the story will be brought to life as a musical at Living Word Ministries. The production includes live singing, dancing, beautiful costumes, impressive sets, and features a local cast of talented performers. Books will be available for purchase, at a cost of $10, following the reading. They will also be sold at the Cumberland County News office and at Kelly’s Korner Salon and Day Spa throughout the holiday season.

Grand jury returns indictments
November 19, 2008 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments. Betty Patterson was indicted and charged with Assault 3rd Degree and Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Audit of Cumberland County Clerk released
November 12, 2008 Issue
State Auditor Crit Luallen released the audit of the 2007 financial statement of Cumberland County Clerk, Kim King. state law requires the Auditor to conduct annual audits of county clerks and sheriffs. The audit found that the Clerk’s financial statement presents fairly the revenues, expenditures and excess fees of the Cumberland County Clerk in conformity with the regulatory basis of accounting..

Band finishes 10th at state
November 5, 2008 Issue
Cumberland County High School’s Marching Panther Band finished its 2008 marching season with a 10th place finish in state competition. Band members and parents left at 3:30 a.m. Saturday morning to prepare for a 9 a.m. performance at Butler Traditional High School in Louisville. Band directors had drawn for time slots the previous week and by the luck of that draw, Cumberland County was the first of 16 bands on the field for the day’s semi-final competition. Wheatley said he would have preferred that the band have a later performance time to better its chances of a higher score but he was pleased with the band’s performance. He said he could tell some of the younger band members were nervous as they took the field for their first semi-final performance. He explained that the later a band performs in a competition, the better chance it has to earn a higher score. Bands are scored on a point system with 80 to 100 points being a distinguished rating, a 60 to 79 being a proficient score. Only bands which had earned a proficient or distinguished rating were allowed to perform at regionals. There are 38 bands in Class A in Kentucky. Bands are divided into classes based on the enrollment at their high schools. Cumberland County’s score was 72.16 and overall judges’ comments regarding the performance were positive. “Good use of visual impacts” wrote one judge. “Fine moments of performance and style” commented another. A third judge added “a nice show with lots of excitement.” Wheatley said this season’s show, entitled Jail Break, was designed to be easier in both music and marching since two-thirds of the band members are freshmen, eighth and seventh graders. “In a couple of years they’re going to be really tough because trial by fire makes you stronger,” predicted Wheatley. “We stood on our own with such young kids.” He said he’d like to thank the many sponsors who have supported the band throughout the marching season and especially during the regional and semi-final competition. “A lot of sponsors really stepped up and gave us $50 here and $50 there and allowed us to do something special for the kids to show them they are special,” he said. Thanks to generous donations, band members were treated to a visit to the Louisville Science Center, including a viewing of the IMAX movie “Dinosaurs” and dinner at the Spaghetti Factory in downtown Louisville. They concluded the day at Papa John’s Stadium where they watched the finals of the state marching band competition. “We wanted to make it a special day to encourage the kids to come back next year.” Wheatley said. This marks his third year as band director at CCHS and his 10th year teaching.

Grand jury returns indictments
October 29, 2008 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments. Jeffrey D. Norris was indicted and charged with Fleeing or Evading Police 1st Degree, Assault 3rd Degree, Terroristic Threatening 3rd Degree, Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohl Concentration of or above 0.08, or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 2nd Offense, Failure to Maintain Insurance as Required, Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct 2nd Degree and Speeding; Bridgett Taylor - Criminal Possession of Forged Prescription; Stephanie White - Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree; Michael L. Chambers - Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 1st degree (Methamphetamine), Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd Degree, Possession of a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree; Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Obstructed Vision and/or Windshield, Failure to Illuminate Registration Plate, Operatig a Motor Vehicle of or above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 1st Offense and Driving on a Suspended Operator’s License; Rebecca S. Piehl - Possession of a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree; Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 1st Degree (Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd Degree; Crissy Jackson - Possession of a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree, Possession of a Controlled Subtance 3rd Degree, Trafficking in a Controlled Substance. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Senator McConnell campaigns here
October 22, 2008 Issue
U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell visited Cumberland County Monday, while campaigning in Southern Kentucky. During the visit, Senator McConnell spoke to constituents on the courthouse steps about the importance of his leadership on behalf of Kentucky. The senator was joined by his wife, Elaine Chao (U.S. Secretray of Labor), Congressman Ed Whitfield and Senator David Williams.

Home Sweet Home for the Holidays
October 15, 2008 Issue
It may seem early, but it’s time to start working on those Christmas Parade floats! The Burkesville Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Burkesville-Cumberland County Chamber of Commerce, is scheduled for Saturday, December 6 at 5:30 p.m. The theme for this year’s parade is “Home Sweet Home for the Holidays.” The prize money this year has doubled! Overall float winner receives $300, 1st place for non-profit and business/for profit is $150 each, 2nd place is $100, 3rd place is $50. The Home/Business Decoration Contest is $75 for 1st place, $50 for second place and $25 for third place.

CCHS now has Student Advisory Council
October 8, 2008 Issue
The 2008-2009 school year brought a new organization to Cumberland County High School. The Student Advisory Council consists of class officers and club presidents. These leaders will represent the student body this year as they share student concerns in monthly meetings with teachers and administrators. They will also represent their peers at Site Based Decision Making council meetings, where they will gain a better understanding of school procedures. Discussions at advisory meetings will address school culture and climate. Student perceptions can often reveal needs for improvement in various areas. The Student Advisory Council gives students an opportunity to develop leadership skills in and out of the classroom. Students will be provided opportunities to demonstrate their talents, skills, and interests while continuing to develop ideas that will make CCHS a school that gives students a voice in making decisions. It is also about giving students more ownership of the programs and activities that they are involved with on a daily basis. Student input improves and strengthens programs in ways that teachers and administrators could not do by themselves. Students on the council will bring new energy and fresh ideas to the traditions of the high school. The opportunity for students to become more involved and to learn skills that can be transferred to the workplace and the community are goals of the student advisory council. The following students serve as the 2008-09 members of the CCHS Student Advisory Council: Kourtney Griffith, Megan Watkins, Stacy Hill, Kimberly Johnson, Jake Williams, Erin Flowers, Lauren Dyer, Will Hurt, Kalyn Barnett, Eryn Smith, Luke King, Austin Flaugh, Travis Garmon, Jordan Henson, Dusty Thacker and Cameron Stalcup.

Some street addresses changing due to 911
October 1, 2008 Issue
As part of a continuous improvement effort, the Cumberland County Emergency 911 Board, in cooperation with the Cumberland County Fiscal Court, is conducting a quality control audit of street addresses in Cumberland County. This evaluation of the street numbering system will take several months to complete, but will aid rescue workers in finding your house in emergency situations when minutes matter. Each address in the Cumberland County Emergency 911 area must be based on an accurate scaling of the distance from the beginning of the road or street. The accuracy of each address should be within 150 feet of the truth. If your street address does not meet this criteria, you will be receiving a letter from the Cumberland County Fiscal Court showing your new address along with easy to follow guidelines for applying highly visible street numbers to your mailbox, residence, or business. Should you receive an address change letter, please begin using your new address immediately and issue a change of address notice to those who send you mail via your residential or business street address. This process will not change your P.O. Box numbers at the post office, just your physical street address. If you believe that your street address is in error before you receive a change notice, help us out by sending your name, current street address, and telephone number along with the reason you feel the address is incorrect to Mapper, Cumberland County Emergency 911, 299 Glasgow Road, Burkesville, KY 42717 or email mapper@cchospital.org. It’s all about your safety and security..

First & Farmers National Bank is “Evening of Hope” sponsor
September 24, 2008 Issue
Vickie Wells, CEO/President of First & Farmers National Bank, recently presented a check to Kelly Guffey, President of Esther House, Inc., a home for battered women and their children, to sponsor “Evening of Hope,” Esther House’s largest fund-raiser of the year. The Dinner and Reverse Raffle will be held October 11th at the Ray Mullinix Conferenec Center at Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park. Tickets are $100 which includes two dinners and an opportunity to win $5,000. Sponsors are still needed at all 3 levels, Silver ($500-$999), Gold ($1,000-$1,999) and Platinum ($2,000 and up). Call Kelly at 270-406-3193 to purchase tickets are to become a sponsor. As a ticket holder, you are aslo invited to an Open House the night before Esther’s Evening of Hope on Friday, October 10 from 6 - 8 p.m. at the Esther House.

Local schools continue to progress
September 17, 2008 Issue
The Cumberland County school district is progressing, as defined by the Kentucky Department of Education, based on its scores for the 2007-08 Commonwealth Accountability Testing System (CATS), according to information released last week. All three schools made substantial gains in content areas and in their 2008 accountability indexes. Cumberland County Elementary School obtained an 81.1 accountability index, a gain of 2.6 over the 2007 index. The greatest gains at CCES were in the content areas of Practical Living/Vocational Studies and Science. Cumberland County Middle School obtained an 80.9 accountability index, an increase of 2.2 over the 2007 index. The greatest gains at CCMS were in the
content areas of Science & Practical Living/Vocational Studies. Cumberland County High School obtained a 76.7 accountability index, an increase of 11.1 over the 2007 index. CCHS made gains in all content areas, with the highest gains in Social Studies, Math and Science. “We are very pleased with the progress that our schools are making,” said Elaine Webb, Assistant Superintendent in Charge of Instruction. “Our District Curriculum Coordinator, Michelle Morgan and I will be working closely with the schools to evaluate their scores and to prioritize their needs. We will continue with our local initiatives, such as Thoughtful Education, teacher assessment analysis, and district walk-throughs of classrooms. We will persistently strive toward proficiency in 2014.”

Fudge injured in tractor accident
September 10, 2008 Issue
A Cumberland County man was injured in a tractor accident Monday afternoon according to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office. Carl Taylor Fudge, 79, of Marrowbone, was working in a field on Chism Road when he was injured. According to Cumberland County Sheriff James Pruitt, Fudge apparently stepped down from the tractor thinking it was secure and the tractor ran over him. Fudge was taken to Cumberland County Hospital then transported by helicopter to the University of Louisville Hospital where he underwent surgery Tuesday.

Former county clerk receives sentence
September 3, 2008 Issue
A former Cumberland County Clerk was sentenced in Cumberland Circuit Court last week. Lynn W. Groce, clerk from 2003 to 2006, was indicted last year on seven counts of Abuse of Public Trust. Two counts were Abuse of Public Trust Greater than $10,000 but less than $100,000, and five counts were Abuse of Public Trust less than $10,000. On a plea of guilty, four charges were dismissed and Groce received a sentence of 8 years on one charge, 8 years on another charge and 5 years on the remaining one with sentences to run concurrently for a total of 8 years. Groce will serve one year with the balance of the sentence probated for eight years or until restitution of $30,000 to Cumberland County Fiscal Court is paid in full. The probation is supervised. Groce must begin payments of the restitution 90 days after her release and must pay no less than $300 per month. Formal sentencing will be handed down on September 25. Groce was placed in custody after appearing in court.

Hospital again expands Radiology services
August 27, 2008 Issue
Cumberland County Hospital has a new addition to its health care family. This summer they have added a new CT machine to their Radiology department. With over a half million dollars invested, it is a terrific improvement over the machine it replaced and shows the hospital’s continuing commitment to its patients and the community.

Cumberland County Schools to give overview of new student drug testing program on August 28th
August 20, 2008 Issue
Middle school and high school students and their parents will be introduced to the Cumberland County Schools new student drug testing program on Thursday, August 28th. The introduction will take place at the Cumberland County Middle School, beginning at 6 p.m., and include an overview of the program, drug awareness training, and a question and answer session. The overview will include a detailed explanation of the actual testing process and the confidentiality embedded in the process. All interested students, parents and school personnel are invited. The primary speaker will be Premier Integrity Solutions’ National Program Director Bill Ramage. Earlier this year, Premier obtained a three-year federal grant that includes Cumberland County, along with Russell County, Perry County, Pulaski County and Knox County. The Cumberland County School System’s new drug testing program was approved this summer by its board of education. The Board established a mandatory random drug and alcohol testing program for all staff, student drivers and students participating in competitive extracurricular activities, including athletics (Board Policy 09.423 - Use of Alcohol, Drugs & Other Prohibited Substances). According to the policy, students will not be allowed to participate in competitive extracurricular activities or to drive on campus until they sign and return to the school the required consent forms that are sent home to all parents/guardians.

Radford receives “Fred Award”
August 13, 2008 Issue
The administrative staff at Cumberland County Middle School gave the first ever “Fred Award” in Cumberland County Schools. The award is based on qualities exemplified by speaker and author Mark Sanborn in his motivational book, The Fred Factor. In his book, Sanborn tells the true story of a mailman named Fred who went above and beyond his job description each and every day he delivered mail to the people on his route. Since publication of this book, many organizations have recognized their own “Freds.” Schools can nominate employees as their “Freds” who can then be eligible for state recognition. Sherry Radford was the recipient of the “Fred Award” at Cumberland County Middle School. Radford has been a teacher in the Cumberland County School System for 32 years. She has served in many capacities in those years, some of which she received reimbursement for, and many for which she received no reimbursement. Mrs. Sherry is always willing to stay late hours with students to work on homework, Beta projects, 21st Century activities and cheerleading activities. She comes in early every day so students can get into the building when parents have early work schedules. She helps students work on homework during this time. Mrs. Sherry takes students on trips, both as a bus driver and a chaperone, works as cheerleading sponsor and Beta sponsor, sets up the sound system for all school dances, ceremonies, award activities and graduations, and, most of all, she has given many hours of service away from her family to make sure that all students at CCMS have the opportunity to enjoy their middle school years. Mrs. Sherry Radford is an inspiration and mentor to all students at CCMS and is truly deserving of this award.

CCMS meets AYP goal, CCHS, CCES fall short
August 13, 2008 Issue
No Child Left Behind (NCLB) reports were released to the public on Tuesday, August 5, 2008. Data indicates that 70.9% of Kentucky¹s public schools made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP). Of the 175 school districts, 58.9% met 100% of their AYP goals. AYP results are based on the Kentucky Core Content Test (KCCT) scores, in both reading and mathematics, and on the local graduation rate. Schools are required to have specific percentages of students reaching proficiency or above in reading and mathematics each year and to meet other criteria in order to make AYP. Cumberland County Elementary School did not make AYP for the first time, but reached 10 of their 11 targeted goals. The goal missed was students with disabilities in content area of math. Cumberland County Middle School made AYP for the second consecutive year and came out of the Tier 1 status that they had been in for 2 years. They met all 10 of their targeted goals. Cumberland County High School did not make AYP in 2008, as well as in 2004, 2005, & 2007, but they did make AYP in 2003 and 2006. They met 9 out of 10 of their targeted goals, with the target missed being the graduation rate.

First test of emergency sirens completed without incident
August 6, 2008 Issue
Emergency sirens sounded along the Cumberland River Friday in their first test run. The test was completed without incident and there were only a small number of calls as a result of the activations. The county received 8 of the 16 sirens provided by the Commonwealth under the Fletcher administration to give an outdoor warning in case of a Wolf Creek Dam failure. These sirens are placed in flood areas only and are located in Irish Bottom, Lawson Bottom, Bakerton, Burkesville, Leslie, Whites Bottom, Salt Lick Bend and Judio.

Grand jury returns indictments
July 30, 2008 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments. Jason Highberger was indicted and charged with Possession of a Handgun By a Convicted Felon, Receiving Stolen Property and Persistent Felony Offender; Kelly Roop - five counts of Theft of Identitiy, eight counts of Receipt of Stolen Credit/Debit Card, Receiving Stolen Property, Display/Possession of Fictitious Operator’s License and Trafficking in Stolen Identities; Nathan Abney - three counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd Degree. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Fugitive arrested here, wanted in four states
July 23, 2008 Issue
A woman wanted in four states was arrested here July 14 by Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy Scot Daniels. According to Daniels, Kelly E. Roop, 20, of Salem, Virginia, was suspected of passing bad checks in Cumberland County using other names. Daniels stopped the suspect’s vehicle on State Park Road. The driver, Roop, along with a male, passenger, Jason Highberger, 22, and a two-year-old child were inside the vehicle. After running a check on the vehicle which came back to a Salem, Viiginia resident, Daniels contacted the Salem Virginia Sheriff’s Department and was informed of the active warrants on Roop including those in Tennessee, Virginia, South Carolina and North Carolina.

Groundbreaking held at new water treatment plant
July 16, 2008 Issue
Burkesville Mayor Keith Riddle, County Judge Executive Tim Hicks and other local dignitaries, along with representatives from the Lake Cumberland Area Development District, GRW Engineering and Herrick Construction attended a groundbreaking ceremony for the Burkesville-Cumberland Co. Regional Water Treatment Plant Project last week.

Grand jury returns indictments
July 9, 2008 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments. Johnny Spears was indicted and charged with Flagrant Non Support; Christopher Melton - Possession of a Firearm By a Convicted Felon; Gerry Lawson - Assault 2nd Degree and Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Burkesville dentist sentenced to 6 months imprisonment
July 2, 2008 Issue
On Monday, in United States District Court, Bowling Green, Mary Todd Stephenson, 51, of Burkesville, was sentenced to 6 months imprisonment for illegally prescribing hydrocodone with no medical purpose, U.S. Attorney David L. Huber of the Western District of Kentucky announced. Thomas B. Russell, Judge, United States District Court, also sentenced Stephenson to 2 years supervised release following incarceration. There is no parole in the federal judicial system. In addition, a fine of $20,000 was imposed. Judge Russell also ordered Stephenson to forfeit her interest in the dental building in which she practiced.

Jr. Beta Club brings home national awards
June 25, 2008 Issue
Several students with the Cumberland County Middle and High School Jr. Beta Club Clubs recently competed at the 12th Annual National Jr. Beta Convention in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Students bringing home national awards were Laura Hopper, Lakesha Radford, Hannah Cooper, Kimberly Spears, Paige young, Dixi Secula and Luke King.

Grand jury returns indictments
June 18, 2008 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments recently. Brandy Rexroat was indicted and charged with Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree; Danny Watson - six counts of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 1st Degree; James E. Stafford - seven counts of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 1st Degree; Joshua Grider - five counts of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Grand jury returns indictments
June 11, 2008 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments recently. David W. Hammer was indicted and charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or Above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 4th Offense, Operating a Motor Vehicle While License is Revoked or Suspended for Driving Under the Influence, Third or Subsequent Offense, Failure to Maintain Insurance on a Motor Vehicle as Required and No/Expired Registration Plates; Williams Staley - No Operator’s License, Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or Above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 1st Offense Aggravating Circumstances, Possession of Controlled Substances Not in Original Container, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Open Alcoholic Beverage Container, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree; James J. Graham - Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Robert Hill, Sr. - Murder. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Reliford is new Lady Panthers coach
June 4, 2008 Issue
Andrew Reliford has been hired as the new Lady Panther coach for the 2008-2009 basketball season.

County cuts benefits to meet budget
May 28, 2008 Issue
The Cumberland County Fiscal Court approved the first reading of the 2008-2009 budget. The budget does not include insurance or retirement benefits for the county clerk’s and sheriff’s office employees. The sheriff and county clerk will still receive the benefits because they are elected officials.

Schools hold successful evacuation drill
May 21, 2008 Issue
For the third consecutive year, the Cumberland County School District held a district-wide practice of their emergency evacuation drill. School Superintendent John Hurt said he was extremely pleased with the outcome, describing this year’s drill as “very efficient.” Approximately 1,100 students and 185 staff were evacuated on 20 buses.

Outdoor Early Warning System project is near completion
May 14, 2008 Issue
Lake Cumberland Community Action Agency Executive Director Bruce B. Brown and Cumberland County Judge/Executive Tim Hicks are pleased to announce that the Cumberland County phase of the Outdoor Early Warning System for the Area below Wolf Creek Dam Project is nearing completion. The eight sirens allocated to the county have been set up and are awaiting electrical service. The project is funded by Executive Order 298 which allocated four hundred thirteen thousand twenty-nine dollars ($413,029) in state emergency funds to install the outdoor early warning system to alert residents who live below the dam of impending disasters after the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers announced in 2007 that Wolf Creek Dam had been determined to be at high risk for failure. Lake Cumberland Community Action Agency, Inc. was awarded the grant to implement the project which places a total of 16 outdoor early warning sirens at strategically located sites below Wolf Creek Dam along the Cumberland River throughout Clinton, Cumberland, Monroe and Russell Counties. Brown stated that he was pleased that Lake Cumberland Community Action Agency, Inc. (LCCAA) was selected to provide such a needed service to the community.  Brown went on to state that all of the funds allocated to the project would be spent for the implementation of the outdoor early warning system; LCCAA would not accept any funds for administering the grant. Cumberland County¹s 911 Center has local control to activate the 8 sirens in the case of an emergency in addition to having the ability to activate all 16 sirens either as a group or individually. The sirens are set on utility poles approximately 45 feet above the ground and have a sound range of 1 to 2.5 miles depending upon the terrain and rotate a complete 360 degrees. The sirens are located at Irish Bottom, Ralph Hughes property, Lawson Bottom Road, Burkesville Fire Department, Kim King property, White¹s Bottom Road, Sand Lick Bend and Judio Road at KY 953. Once the sirens are fully operational, LCCAA will notify the public of the date and time on which the sirens will be tested. Brown shared that LCCAA would like to thank those who contributed to the successful implementation of the Cumberland County portion of the project, specifically LCCAA Board Member, Judge/Executive Tim Hicks and Emergency Manager Harvey Graves for their assistance and Tri County Electric for boring the holes and supplying electricity to the sirens.

Accident in Leslie Curve; two sent to jail
May 7, 2008 Issue
Two Celina, Tennessee men were involved in an accident last Friday afternoon on Hwy. 90 West (Leslie Curve). According to Burkesville Police Officer, Kenny Brown, Israel Martinez was traveling east when he lost control in the curve and overturned. Also in the vehicle were the driver’s brother, Moses Martinez and a dog. The driver was charged with DUI, Possession of Marijuana and No Insurance. Moses was charged with Possession of Marijuana. Both refused treatment at the scene.

Rich, Thrasher wreck on Gray Gap Road
April 30, 2008 Issue
Two people were involved in an accident on Gray Gap Road last Friday morning. According to Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy, Scot Daniels, Joseph Rich, 72, of Pleasant Shade, Tennessee, was traveling north on Gray Gap Road (KY 3115) in a 2008 GMC when he crossed the centerline and was hit by an oncoming 2000 Acura driven by Amy E. Thrasher, 18, of Burkesville. Both vehicles received extensive damage. Rich and Thrasher were both wearing seat belts and were taken to Cumberland County Hospital by private vehicles where they were treated and released. Assisting Daniels at the scene were Sheriff James Pruitt, Cumberland County EMS and the Marrowbone Fire Department.

Airport board meets with commissioner and engineers
April 23, 2008 Issue
The Clinton-Cumberland County Airport Board met last Tuesday, April 15 at the Farm House Restaurant in Byrdstown, Tennessee. Special guests from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Department of Aviation of Frankfort flew in for the meeting. Special guests included Commissioner Paul Steeley and two of his top airport engineers, Craig Farmer and Joe Carter. Their mission was to encourage, advise and support the airport board’s efforts in reviewing earlier sites and potential new sites in light of current FAA regulations. The board was very pleased to have Judge Executives, Tim Hicks of Cumberland County and Lyle Huff of Clinton County and Mayors Keith Riddle of Burkesville and Nicky Smith of Albany in attendance. Also in attendance were Jim McIntyre, William “Bill” Stout and Gabe Benson representing the board’s new engineering firm, Entran, located in Lexington, Louisville, Nashville, Cincinnati and many other areas in the United States.
Commissioner Paul Steeley praised the board for their enduring effort to establish a new airport for our communities as an attraction for economic growth and encouragement for job opportunities. Prior to being Commissioner of the Department of Aviation, Steeley was the chairman of the Williamsburg (KY) Airport Board for over 20 years. He was very instrumental in the the development of their airport. The board acknowledged its appreciation of Steeley’s efforts in assisting in securing the Department of Aviation’s grant in the amount of $208,364 dollars for the Site Selection Study and Master Plan (engineering and site planning work). During the meeting, the board authorized Entran to proceed with planning and site development associated with the grant funding. A special thank you to Leon Denney for picking up special guests at Monticello’s airport and providing an aerial tour and view of potential new and old airport sites on the way to the Farm House Restaurant and then back to Monticello. The airport board was represented by Junior Cary, Leon Denney, Jim Soma, Jimmie Sloan, Greg Smith and Frank Brendel. Also in attendance was former board member Keith McWhorter representing the Clinton County Industrial Board. Absent due to illness were Richard Keen and Orestus Flowers.

County receives hail damage, Clinton, Wayne harder hit
April 16, 2008 Issue
It’s spring time in the south. Along with unpredictable temperatures, come the spring storms. Friday, April 11 was no exception. As the sky darkened, in came the heavy rain, hail and weather warnings. A tornado warning was issued for Cumberland County Friday afternoon with large hail reported in the southern part of the county. The heaviest hail damage reported (with insurance claims) was in the eastern part of the county, from Alex Montgomery Chevrolet-GMC to the Clinton County line according to Todd Morgan, Kentucky Farm Bureau agent, who has been busy with hundreds of vehicle and property claims. “In the 17 years I’ve been working here,” Morgan said. “I haven¹t seen anything that compares to this.” Morgan said there were several reports of hail damage in the southern part of the county also. Also busy with claims was Wade Flowers, local State Farm Insurance agent, who said he started writing checks Monday morning and was still at it Tuesday afternoon. Morgan estimates he will have about $300,000 in auto damage and $500,000 in property damage. He said he had some homes with roof damage, windows broken, and vinyl siding damage. Flowers estimates he will have about $200,000 in auto damage and about $50,000 in property damage. (Note: These are only estimates.) Clinton and Wayne counties were hit even harder. Areas near the Clinton-Wayne County line appear to be among the hardest hit by the storm. Emergency management in Wayne County estimated 40 houses, barns and other structures were damaged or destroyed. In Clinton County, 50 to 60 structures were estimated to be damaged.
 

Grand jury returns indictments on three
April 9, 2008 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on March 27. Leland Neal was indicted and charged with Bail Jumping1st Degree; Chad Thrasher - three counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd Degree; James J. Graham - Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree, Terroristic Threatening 3rd Degree, Resisting Arrest, disorderly Conduct 2nd Degree, Possession of Open Alcoholic Beverage Container, Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 3rd Offense, Aggravator and Fleeing or Evading Police 1st Degree. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

One injured in DUI collision
April 2, 2008 Issue
A Cumberland County woman was injured in an one-vehicle accident last Wednesday evening on Galloway Road. According to Kentucky State Police, Linda G. Taylor, age 57, of Burkesville, was southbound on Galloway Road when she lost control of her 1995 Chevrolet. Taylor’s vehicle left the roadway and went over an embankment. She was admitted to Cumberland County Hospital due to her injuries. She was cited for Driving Under the Influence.

City council meets in regular session
March 26, 2008 Issue
The Burkesville City Council held its regular monthly meeting March 20.
During the meeting:
-the council approved the second reading of Ordinance No. 2008-1, “Repeal of Ordinance Establishing a Tourist and Convention Commission.”
-the council approved Resolution No. 2008-1, “A Resolution of Authorization, for the City Council, City of Burkesville, Kentucky Water Treatment Plant Expansion and Transmission Main Project.”
-the council approved Resolution No. 2008-2, “A Resolution of Approval Signature Authority for the Kentucky Water Treatment Plant Expansion and Transmission Main Project.”
-the council approved a request from the Masonic Lodge to use the park on March 23.
-the council approved a request from the Burkesville Little League to use the park on April 26.
-the council approved a request from Band Director Jonathan Wheatley to use the park on May 3.
-Mayor Keith Riddle presented the council with a letter received concerning the Clinton-Cumberland County Airport monies that have been received, and the Notice to Proceed with the project.

Burkesville man injured in Glasgow accident
March 19, 2008 Issue
An one-vehicle accident on Hwy. 90 (Burkesville Road) in Barren County, on Friday, March 14, involved a local resident. Jason Armstrong, 25, of Burkesville, was traveling in a 1996 Saturn when the car went out of control, struck two brick columns and overturned onto its roof, according to the Barren County Sheriff’s Department. A mechanical problem with the car appears to have caused Armstrong to lose control. Armstrong was transported to T.J. Samson Community Hospital for treatment and was later released.

Grand jury returns indictments on several
March 12, 2008 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on February 28. Jeremy Blackburn was indicted and charged with Retalitating Against a Participant in the Legal Process; Kristina French - Tampering with Physical Evidence; Timmy Branham - Burglary 2nd Degree and Criminal Mischief 3rd Degree; David Rains - Operating a Motor Vehicle While License is Revoked or Suspended for DUI 3rd or Subsequent Offense, Obstructed Vision and/or Windshield, Failure to Maintain Required Insurance and Failure to Register Transfer of Motor Vehicle; Samantha Jones - three counts of Unlawful Transactions with a Minor 2nd Degree, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Ruby A. Greenwood - three counts of Unlawful Transactions with a Minor 2nd Degree, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Isaiah D. Shelton - three counts of Unlawful Transactions with a Minor 2nd Degree, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; James Clark, Jr. - Burglary 2nd Degree, Unlawful Transactions with a Minor 3rd Degree and Disorderly Conduct 2nd Degree; James Thompson - Defrauding a Secured Creditor; Joseph M. Rhoton - Marijuana Cultivation and Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Howard Long - Marijuana Cultivation; Jerrod Dane Ryan Norris - Marijuana Cultivation; Bufford Wilburn - Marijuana Cultivation; Tonya Marie Robertson - Theft of Identity, Speeding, Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or Above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 2nd Offense and Giving a Peace Officer a False Name or Address; Jessie Phillips - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Wilson found murdered in his home on KY 1880
March 5, 2008 Issue
A Cumberland County man was found murdered last Wednesday morning at his home on KY 1880. According to Kentucky State Police, a call from the Cumberland County Sheriff¹s Office was received by KSP at around 9:06 a.m. Authorities found Clarence Wilson, Jr., 51, dead in his home. Cumberland County Coroner Gary White said Wilson died from multiple trauma to his head and multiple stab wounds. An autopsy was performed to determine the exact cause of death. At presstime, Tuesday, White said the results of the autopsy have not been released. The case is being investigated by KSP Detective Tony Wells, Detective Kevin Hunt, Sgt. Bobby Sullivan and the Cumberland County Sheriff¹s Office. If anyone has information about this crime please contact the Kentucky State Police at 1-800-222-5555 or 270-384-4796. Wilson was the son of Lige Wilson and Olene Moles Murray. He was a longtime self-employed logger. A complete obituary can be found on page 16.

CCMS Academic Team tops at Sportsmanship
February 27, 2008 Issue
Academic Team tops at Sportsmanship Saturday, Feb. 16th, the Cumberland County Middle School Academic Team participated in the Regional Governor¹s Cup Competition at Adair County Middle School. The team came away with high honors and we at CCMS are very proud of all the participants. The first award received was the Catherine Hume Award. This award is for sportsmanship and is voted on by the other 15 schools participating in the competition. CCMS is very proud of its academic team, because not only are they competitors, but they are a class act while doing so! The Future Problem Solving team received 2nd place and will advance to state competition in March. Members include Kristen Dyer, Eliza Smith, Leah Smith and Karrie Struthers. Way to go girls! Also qualifying for state were Gabe Smith who placed 2nd in Arts and Humanities, and Trevor Davidson who placed 4th in Math. This will be Trevor¹s second year to qualify for state in Math. Excellent! The Quick Recall team competed very well, and received 4th place honors. Members include: Kurtis Spears, Gabe Smith, Eliza Smith, Karrie Struthers, Heather Stalcup, Branden Young, Kristen Dyer, Chelsea King and Leah Smith. Katie Cook also participated in Written Composition. We are very proud of all of the participants who have represented our school proudly! Good Luck to the FPS team, Gabe and Trevor at State. They will participate in Louisville on March 15 and 16th! Way to go CCMS!CCMS

Stephens Mfg. will locate here
February 20, 2008 Issue
Stephens Manufacturing Co., Inc. formally announced last Thursday plans to operate a new facility in Burkesville. Stephens Manufacturing is a family-owned business based in Tompkinsville and has been manufacturing concrete batching equipment for the ready-mix industry for over 50 years. Stephens had accepted proposals from six communities in South Central Kentucky and Northern Middle Tennessee. After evaluating all the proposals the company chose Burkesville and Cumberland County. “We are very excited about coming to Cumberland County,” Stephens Mfg. President and CEO Max Stephens said. “We are very appreciative of all the efforts of city and county leaders on this project.” He also said that the incentives offered in Cumberland County and the available work force were the key factors in the decision. Rick Neikirk, chairman of the Burkesville-Cumberland County Economic Development Corporation, said Stephens’ move here was the culmination of over a year’s work and planning, involving the development corporation, the Burkesville-Cumberland County Chamber of Commerce, local and state government, the Tennessee Valley Authority and particularly local attorney Lindsey Bell. Bell is a charter board member of the development corporation and, until this year, had served as chairman. “This has been a terrific cooperative effort with Mayor Keith Riddle and Judge Executive Tim Hicks working together for the common good of the community, but no one has worked harder than Lindsey in helping bring these jobs to Cumberland County,” Neikirk said. Plans call for the construction of a 19,800 sq. ft. building on Lower River Street. Total cost of the project is expected to be approximately $2.5 million. The company plans to employ approximately 20 people during the first year and up to 40 employees over the next 4-5 years. It is anticipated that the facility would be in operation this fall. Stephens said that this new facility would not have any negative effect on the approximately 130 employees at the Tompkinsville facility. The primary purpose of the facility in Burkesville is to accommodate current and projected future growth. An official ground-breaking will be announced for a later date.

Huddleston killed Saturday; man and two sons arrested
February 20, 2008 Issue
A man with local ties was killed during a domestic disturbance Saturday night in the Ashlock Community of Cumberland County. According to Cumberland County Sheriff James Pruitt, Robert Hill, 47, of Celina, Tennessee and Kenneth “Bubbles” Huddleston, 44, of Firehall Road, Celina, had been involved in an altercation. Pruitt said Huddleston was shot in the altercation on Ashlock Road. He was taken to Clay County Hospital, then transferred to Cookeville Regional Hospital where he died. Hill and his son, who is a juvenile, and his stepson Chad Cherry, 23, were arrested. Hill and Cherry are charged with murder. The juvenile has been charged with complicity to murder. Assisting Pruitt were the Burkesville Police Department and the Clay County Sheriff¹s Department.

Bank of Cumberland changing name to First & Farmers National Bank
February 13, 2008 Issue
Over the next week you may notice a few changes at the Bank of Cumberland. The bank will be adopting a new name and logo as well as new corporate colors. Effective February 18, the Bank of Cumberland will be known as First & Farmers National Bank. The bank has elected to embrace the colors of the American flag and the corporate logo of an eagle. The change comes as the bank consolidates operations with sister banks in Albany, Somerset and Columbia.

Cumberland River receives extra trout to boost populations affected by water quality problems
February 6, 2008 Issue
While last summer’s low water flows into the Cumberland River tailwater made it a fishing paradise for wading anglers, the higher temperatures that resulted downriver created stressful conditions for trout. To help boost the trout populations in the lower section of the river, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources stocked 13,250 brown trout into the tailwater this week. The bonus stocking is in addition to the 38,000 brown trout normally stocked in March. The Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery, in partnership with Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, supplies trout stocked in Kentucky. Water quality in the tailwater below Burkesville decreased last summer due to higher temperatures created by the ongoing work to repair Wolf Creek Dam at Lake Cumberland. The flow of cold water through the dam is being reduced because the lake is being held at a lower level while construction is underway. Biologists did not observe fish kills in the tailwater last year. However, the higher water temperatures stressed trout, and researchers believe the fish responded by moving upriver. Kentucky Fish and Wildlife employees will stock the 6-inch brown trout at public access areas and boat ramps from Helms Landing downstream to McMillan’s Ferry. The March stocking will include 8-inch fish. It will take several years before anglers may keep these fish. The Cumberland River tailwater has a one fish, 20-inch size limit on brown trout. Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources personnel also stock 161,000 rainbow trout in the tailwater each year, beginning in April. All rainbow trout between 15 to 20 inches caught in the Cumberland tailwater must be released immediately. Anglers may keep five rainbow caught from the tailwater, but only one fish may exceed 20 inches. Anglers fishing the Cumberland River tailwater from Wolf Creek Dam downstream to the state line must possess a valid trout permit.

Homicide-suicide investigation underway by state, local police
January 30, 2008 Issue
State and local authorities are investigating an apparent homicide-suicide that occurred over the weekend on Columbia Road. According to Kentucky State Police, a call came in Saturday around 3:50 a.m. requesting assistance at 4959 Columbia Road. Located at the residence was the body of Janice Cole, 56, who died from a single gunshot wound to the back. Also at the residence was the suspect, Freddy Groce, 54, who died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the chest. Both were pronounced dead at the scene by the Cumberland County Coroner, Gary White.

Riddle home destroyed by fire
January 23, 2008 Issue
A fire destroyed a house belonging to Roger Riddle, Smith Grove Road, on Sunday, January 20th. The cause of the fire has not been determined, but was possibly electrical. The Burkesville Fire Department, long with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department, responded to the scene.

Wind overturns truck near bridge
January 16, 2008 Issue
A 1999 International semi-truck overturned last Thursday afternoon on Hwy. 90 east. According to Burkesville City Police, the driver of the truck, Mark Warrick, 50, of Rockvale, Tennessee, was traveling east to Rocore on Southwind Drive, when a strong gust of wind blew his truck over into the west bound lane of Hwy. 90 after he crossed the bridge. Warrick refused treatment at the scene..

Fire destroys Monday home
January 9, 2008 Issue
A fire destroyed the home of Keith and Samantha Monday on Friday afternoon. The home and contents were a total loss. Burkesville Fire Department Chief Weldon Rowe said the possible cause was an electric clothes dryer. Their will be a Household/Pounding (a pound of this a pound of that) Shower for the family on Sunday, January 13 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Burkesville Baptist Church hosted by the Young Adult Sunday Class.

Jury finds local dentist guilty of illegally distributing hydrocodone
January 9, 2008 Issue
Dr. Mary Todd Stephenson, 50, of Burkesville, was found guilty by a federal jury in United States District Court, Bowling Green, Kentucky, on December 21, 2007, of illegally distributing hydrocodone outside the course of professional medical practice on four separate occasions, U.S. Attorney David L. Huber of the Western District of Kentucky has announced. The jury¹s guilty verdict was returned following a three-day trial before Thomas B. Russell, Judge, United States District Court, after deliberating for approximately one hour and forty-five minutes. Stephenson, a practicing dentist for 20 years, was tried for prescribing hydrocodone to patients without a medical reason, once on November 29, 2006, and on three separate occasions on March 7, 2007. Hydrocodone is a highly addictive pain killer that requires a prescription. At trial, it was shown that Cumberland County had a significant problem with the illegal sale and distribution of prescription pain killers like hydrocodone. The Kentucky State Police conducted an investigation, and several undercover buys and arrests were made. When the dealers were
interviewed following their arrest, several of them identified Dr. Stephenson as their source of hydrocodone. U.S. Attorney David L. Huber praised the cooperation of the Kentucky State Police with the DEA, saying “This is the best way to stop the illegal prescription drug dealing at the community level.” Facts presented during the trial include:
-On November 27, 2006, a confidential informant, wearing a recording device, asked Dr. Stephenson for a prescription for pain pills so she could sell the pain pills to pay her bills. Dr. Stephenson agreed, and on November 29, 2007, Dr. Stephenson prescribed hydrocodone to the informant¹s relative,knowing that the relative would give the hydrocodone to the informant to
sell.
-On March 7, 2007, three informants, each wearing recording devices, met with Dr. Stephenson in her dental office at different times, and all three told her that they were not experiencing any pain. Dr. Stephenson nonetheless performed medically unnecessary procedures on their gums and then gave them prescriptions for hydrocodone. Dr. Stephenson subsequently billed Medicaid for these medically unnecessary procedures.
Evidence at trial also revealed that Dr. Stephenson:
-prescribed hydrocodone to patients who were addicted,
-sometimes prescribed hydrocodone even though she did no dental work on the
patient,
-sometimes performed medically unnecessary procedures, billed those
procedures to Medicaid, and then prescribed hydrocodone,
-prescribed hydrocodone to one patient over 70 times in four years,
-traded prescriptions for hydrocodone to a patient in return for the patient¹s Zoloft, and                             -once gave a patient 30 pills of valium as a Christmas gift.                                                            The maximum potential penalties are 10 years imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, and supervised release for a period of 3 years. The United States has also moved to forfeit Dr. Stephenson¹s ownership interest in her dental practice. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David Weiser and Bryan Calhoun, and it was investigated by the Kentucky State Police and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. A motion was filed in United States District Court, Bowling Green, on January 3 by Dr. Stephenson¹s attorney, David L. Williams, asking the court to enter an order granting a judgment of acquittal or in the alternative granting her a new trial. Yesterday, Huber filed in the same court a response opposing the motion. The document states that the only recognized basis for granting a motion for judgment of acquittal is the insufficiency of the evidence, and in this case “the evidence was overwhelming.” It also says “a reasonable jury could, and in this case easily did, find guilt beyond a reasonable doubt...and the defendant¹s motion should be denied.” Stephenson is scheduled to be sentenced before Judge Russell on March 31, 2007, at 12:00 p.m., in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Fletcher scores her 1,000th point
January 2, 2008 Issue
Lady Panther Laura Fletcher scored her 1,000th point in the Lady Panther vs. Clinton County game on Dec. 11th. Fletcher will be honored with an award this Friday at the match against Russell County.

Whitfield secures $100,000 for Cumberland County
December 26, 2007 Issue
U.S. Rep. Ed Whitfield has secured $100,000 for Cumberland County to recruit new businesses to the county. Cumberland County will receive these funds to construct a new 19,808 square-foot metal spec building, which will be used to attract new businesses to Cumberland County.

Grand jury returns indictments
December 19, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on December 13. Jeremy Ray Blackburn was indicted and charged with Terroristic Threatening 2nd Degree and Harassing Communications; Anthony Garrett - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition, Criminal Mischief 1st Degree and Burglary 3rd Degree; Adrain Cecil - Complicity to Criminal Mischief 1st Degree, Complicity to Theft By Unlawful Taking Over $300 and Complicity to Commit Burglary 3rd Degree; Steven Bell - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition, Criminal Mischief 1st Degree and Burglary 3rd Degree. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

CCHS Marching Band performs in Beshear’s Inauguration Parade
December 12, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County High School Marching Band marched in the inauguration parade of Kentucky’s 61st governor, Steve Beshear, on Tuesday. Beshear was officially sworn in Tuesday morning after midnight in the Exeuctive Mansion. Swearing in the governor was Supreme Court Justice Bill Cunningham.

Fire destroys Traces of the West
December 5, 2007 Issue
Fire destroys Traces of the West A fire has destroyed Traces of the West, a western store owned by Ed Secula, on Hwy. 61 South. According to Burkesville Fire Department Chief Weldon Rowe the department was called around 6 p.m. Sunday. Burkesville¹s department responded with three trucks and 17 fire fighters. Marrowbone Fire Department responded with two trucks and 12 fire fighters. Pea Ridge had two trucks and eight fire fighters at the scene. Breeding Fire Department had two trucks and six fire fighters. The building and five vehicles were a total loss. There was also heat damage to the Doris Cary home next door. Also assisting at the scene were the Burkesville Police Department, the Cumberland County Rescue Squad and Cumberland County EMS. At press time, the cause of the fire had not been determined. The fire is under investigation by the Kentucky State Fire Marshall and Kentucky State Police Fire Investigator.

Moore killed in accident
December 5, 2007 Issue
A Burkesville man was killed in an one-vehicle accident last Tuesday night on Hwy. 90 west, in Marrowbone. According to the Cumberland County Sheriff¹s Office, Donald B. Moore, 34, was traveling west on Hwy. 90 when he veered off the right side of the highway and struck a utility pole. Moore was not wearing a seat belt. Moore was pronounced dead at the scene by Cumberland County Coroner Gary White. An autopsy was performed in Louisville, but the cause of death had not been determined at press time. The investigating officer was Deputy Scot Daniels. Also at the scene were the Marrowbone Fire Department, Cumberland County EMS, Kentucky State Police and the Cumberland County Rescue Squad.

Thurman arrested for rape of elderly woman
December 5, 2007 Issue
A Burkesville resident has been arrested and charged with Rape 1st Degree. According to Kentucky State Police, a call came into KSP around 5 p.m. on Friday, November 20 that a 79-year-old female in Cumberland County had been raped. During the investigation, KSP determined that Cordelro D. Thurman, 19, had physically assaulted the victim. The case is under investigation by KSP Trooper Bradley Stotts and KSP Detective Kevin Hunt. KSP was assisted by the Cumberland County Sheriff¹s Office.

Judge Hurt threatened, schools, justice center go on lockdown
December 5, 2007 Issue
Last Thursday was a hectic day in Cumberland County as law enforcement agencies searched for a man who had made threats against a local judge. On Thursday, sometime before noon, Jeremy Ray Blackburn, 25, apparently made phone calls to the Cumberland County Sheriff¹s Office threatening to kill Judge Steve Hurt, Vice Chief Regional Judge and Chief District Judge for Kentucky Judicial District 60, which serves Cumberland and Monroe counties. Blackburn told authorities he had guns. Cumberland County schools and the Cumberland County Justice Center were locked down for precaution. Hurt¹s wife, Cindy, is a teacher at Cumberland County Middle School. On Friday, November 30, Blackburn was arrested around noon during a traffic stop in Great Bend, Kansas. Blackburn will be extradited to Kentucky to face charges of terroristic threatening second degree, intimidating a judicial officer and harassing communications. At press time, Blackburn was still being held in Kansas. The case is under investigation by Kentucky State Police. In Monroe County Tensions were high in Monroe County Court Friday as Judge Hurt took the bench. A gunshot sounded elsewhere in the court house. Tommy D. Wilson¹s .22 caliber pistol fell out of a hole in his pants and discharged on the ground. No one was injured, but the incident put everyone on edge since the location of Blackburn was unknown at the time.

Grand jury returns several indictments
November 28, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments recently. Heather Moreland was charged and indicted with Tampering with Physical Evidence, Possession of Controlled Substances Not in Original Container, Possession of a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree and Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree.. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Auditor says city “in real good shape”
November 21, 2007 Issue
The Burkesville City Council met in regular session Thursday and received good news during the meeting. Sammy Lee, certified public accountant with Sammy Lee, PSC, discussed the city’s auditor with Mayor Keith Riddle and councilmen. “You have stopped the bleeding,” Lee told the council. “The important thing is you only lost $34,000.” Last year’s total loss was $247,000. “It’s a total turn around,” Lee said. “You also have a good clerk (Tammy Hurt). She’s very conscientious. The city is in real good shape.”

Willen, Smith are “Voice of the Panthers”
November 14, 2007 Issue
WKYR 107.9 FM is proud to introduce to Cumberland County, the new “Voice of the Panthers,” Lannie Willen and his color comentator, Anthony Smith. Lannie is a lifelong resident of Cumberland County, a 1992 graduate of Cumberland County High School and a 1997 graduate of Western Kentucky University. He is currently employed as the vocational agriculture teacher at CCHS. He, and his wife, Kristi, and son, Lance, live in the Seminary Community. Anthony was also born and raised in Cumberland County. He graduated from CCHS in 1987 and from the University of Kentucky in 1991. Anthony also teaches at CCHS. He, his wife, Sandra, and their three children, Erin, Ethan and Ellie make their home in the Big Renox Community.

Grand jury returns several indictments
November 7, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on October 25. Brian William Thompson was indicted and charged with Manufacturing Meth, Obstructed Vision and/or Windshield, Giving a Peace Officer a False Name or Address, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Corinne L. Thompson - Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Manufacturing Meth; Todd M. Anderson - Controlled Substance Endangerment to a Child 4th Degree, Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Trafficking in Marijuana and Manufacturing Meth; Lavonda Garner - Criminal Abuse 2nd Degree; Teresa Riley - Criminal Abuse 2nd Degree; Mark Riley - Criminal Abuse 2nd Degree and Robbie R. Williams - Forgery 2nd Degree and Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

One injured in bridge accident
October 31, 2007 Issue
Clifton Hagan, 64, of Burkesville, was injured in an one vehicle accident Saturday evening on Hwy. 90 east, in the middle of the bridge. According to Burkesville Police Officer Lawrence Nettles, Hagan was traveling east when he blacked out, lost control and struck the bridge. Hagan was transported and admitted to Cumberland County Hospital.

Governor unveils new warning system, breaks ground for highway improvement projects
October 24, 2007 Issue
Friday, Governor Ernie Fletcher unveiled an outdoor warning system for residents of four counties below Wolf Creek Dam. A system of sirens would sound a warning throughout Cumberland, Clinton, Monroe and Russell counties in the event of a failure at the dam, which holds back Lake Cumberland. The sirens also can be used during times of severe weather and other emergencies. Wolf Creek Dam is undergoing repairs by the Army Corps of Engineers to halt erosion around its base. “Since the Wolf Creek Dam issue first surfaced, we have taken every
precaution possible to ensure your safety and the safety of your friends and family,” Governor Fletcher told a gathering at Cumberland County Elementary School. “One thing that many of you told me this region needed was an outdoor warning system ­ and you are getting it.” Plans call for 16 weather sirens to be arrayed in the area. Eight sirens would be installed in Cumberland County, five in Russell County, two in Monroe County and one in Clinton County. The sirens are designed to be audible for as far as four air miles. The warning system is one of several actions taken by Governor Fletcher on behalf of the affected counties since the Corps of Engineers disclosed that the dam was eroding. Failure of the dam is considered unlikely, but Governor Fletcher has left nothing to chance. At his direction, enhanced and reverse 9-1-1 emergency dispatch systems have been implemented, and extensive disaster planning has taken place. Weather radios have been distributed to households. “I want to commend Congressman Hal Rogers and Congressman Ed Whitfield for their commitment to helping protect the people of this region,” said
Governor Fletcher. “Without their tireless efforts, many of the resources we are using to ensure the safety of people in the Lake Cumberland area would not have been possible.” Following the announcement of the new warning sirens, Governor Fletcher joined Senate President David L. Williams, Secretary of Transportation Bill Nighbert, Cumberland County Judge-Executive Tim Hicks, Burkesville Mayor Keith Riddle and other community leaders in breaking ground on a $53 million investment to improve two heavily traveled routes in Cumberland County. The two-pronged design/build project includes reconstruction of a section of KY 61 and critical safety improvements along KY 90. “I am committed to building safer roads that lead to new opportunities,” said Governor Fletcher. “Today we are breaking ground on a project that will benefit this community for many years to come.” Kentucky¹s innovative use of a “design/build” process for highway projects allows work to be completed more quickly and efficiently. Contractors work simultaneously on different aspects of the project, including design and construction. Williams applauded Governor Fletcher for his commitment to Cumberland County. “This is a significant transportation project for Cumberland County,” Williams said. “Governor Fletcher¹s support for this project has been critical in moving it forward. As president of the Kentucky Senate, I am
honored to work with a man who is committed to going the extra mile to make our state a better place to live, work and raise a family. Furthermore, the investment we are making in an outdoor emergency warning system will help keep our families safe in the event of a natural disaster.” “I appreciate Governor Fletcher¹s commitment to keeping our residents safe,” said Rep. Jamie Comer (R-Tompkinsville). “The outdoor warning sirens will provide another critical line of defense for thousands of residents during severe weather situations and other life-threatening emergencies. I¹m also excited to help celebrate the ground-breaking for the KY 90 and KY 61 improvement projects, which will improve safety and mobility, not only for the people of Cumberland County, but for the hundreds of thousands of visitors who travel those roads en route to Dale Hollow Lake.” The project includes reconstruction of a 5.5-mile section of KY 61 from Jones Chapel to a point just south of KY 704. The new roadway will have improved shoulders, wider bridges, and improved drainage. Friday¹s announcement incorporates several improvements along KY 90 at various locations between Burkesville and the Metcalfe County line, including:
-From the KY 61/KY 90 intersection to Cumberland County Hospital. KY 90 will be reconstructed, with new curbs, gutters and sidewalks. The intersection in Burkesville also will be improved to reduce congestion and improving mobility.
-KY 90 at the Sawmill Curve, just north of Burkesville, to Thrasher Hollow Road. The roadway will be straightened to eliminate curves that frequently have been scenes of accidents.
-Curve near Marrowbone at Wisdom Creek Bridge. KY 90 will be raised to address a flooding problem.
-KY 90\KY 100. The roadway will be reconstructed to improve safety at the intersection.
-West of Marrowbone to the Metcalfe County line. A four-mile section of KY 90 will be reconstructed, with 12-foot lanes and 10-foot shoulders. “These projects are the right things to do because they offer hope and peace
of mind for local residents,” said Governor Fletcher. “We are all Kentuckians and these investments benefit us all.”

Band makes school history, places fourth in state Class A
October 24, 2007 Issue
By J.D. Robinson Saturday, October 20, at approximately 2:32 EST, people were jumping from the grand stand and rushing toward the end zone. Old men and women were leaping into the air as they once had done in their youth. There were shouts of joy and tears in their eyes. The announcement had been made, the Cumberland County Marching Panther Band, under the direction of Jonathan Wheatley, had advanced from semi-finals to the Final Four. The band exploded with excitement and an energy only matched by their performance. The CCHS Band re-formed in the end zone and proudly played the “Alma Mater.” As people gathered to ask questions and wish good luck, Mr. Wheatley asked to be excused, the band had little time to travel to Papa John¹s Stadium and perform in the Final Four. The band had drawn a 5:15 performance time, second on the field. This left little time for warm-ups, focus, and fine tuning. Once again it was a question of how much heart and determination the CCHS Band could put on the field. There had been no time for major adjustments. At 5:15 the CCHS Marching Panther Band entered the field of the Final Four. The band exploded with the energy we had become accustomed to, yet you could see something different in the faces of the bandsmen. The contras were held exceptionally high as if they were being offered to the judges. The flash of the horn twirls was especially sharp. As their heels struck the ground, their toes pointed in the air as if they had special shoes. When Shaun Carrow leaned back to hit his hanging high note his face turned bright red and his head almost touched the ground while the note hung in the air even longer than expected. The pit answered with a special sharpness, the percussion was in unison, dynamic and sharp. The woodwind solos and challenges were clean and clear. The color guard displayed exceptional grace and timing. The brass stayed strong and precise throughout the performance. At the finale, the guard exploded with flags waving, presenting a field of color, and the band filled the arena with bold, proud sound. A sense of accomplishment filled the air as the crowd cheered and the “Mighty Panther Band” retired from the field to await the decision of the judges. History had been made. Cumberland County is now on the KMEA list of state finalists. The Cumberland County High School Marching Panther Band finished fourth in State Class A competition. The highest achievement in school history. They have marched on the field with the best bands in the state; they are one of them. Without question, the CCHS Marching Panther Band of 2007 is our “Champion.” They have done themselves and their community proud. The 2007 Cumberland County Marching Panther Band consists of: Dale Adams, Travis Arms, Harrison Ashley, Daniel Blakely, Corey Brito, Amelia Brito, Nick Burns, Jessica Butler, Sarah Butler, Shawn Carrow, Alexis Contos, Sierra Cope, Zane Cyphers, Trevor Davidson, Brittany Day, Josh Finley, Austin Flaugh, Justin Graves, Lucas Groce, Mykala Harris, Jordan Henson, Josh Howard, Landon Kirk, Jacob Marx, Josh Marx, Jesse Marx, Jessica McLeod, Anika Mosby, Charlie Price, Ben Robinson, Beth Rush, Erin Rush, Sarah Scott, Will Scott, Brooke Sharp, Brittany Thomas, Ariel Thompson, Dakota Vincent, Casey Williams, Erica Williams, Jake Williams, Kayla Wilson,
Brandon Young, Rachael Butler, Bethany White and Samantha Robinson. March on Big Green! March proud, champions! March on!

CCHS Marching Band is Class A West Region Champs
October 17, 2007 Issue
On Saturday, October 13th, there was a sense of nervousness and urgency in the air. Nothing the Cumberland County High School Marching Band had done prior to this point really mattered. To reach the Final Four, the band would have to score high to assure good position in the semi-finals. At 2:30 p.m. CDT, the Cumberland County High School Marching Panther Band entered the Warren East football field, the last of 14 bands competing for Class A champs. The band knew that they had to finish the show as strong and energetic as they started it, and remain focused. The pit crew worked quickly to set up field as the band positioned itself and then came the announcement “Cumberland County you may take the field for competition.” And take the field they did, in what has been described as a stellar and “awesome” performance. The music was full and clean, the formations were on the mark, the lines straight and the horn twirls effective, the color guard graceful and brilliant, the pit in perfect rhythm, and the percussion flashy and dynamic. The balance between woodwinds and brass was definitely achieved. As the performance ended, the field exploded with color, movement, and sound. As the band left the field there was still noticeable excitement in the air among spectators and Cumberland County supporters, a feeling that history had been made. Patiently and proudly the band waited at the end of the field for the announcement of finalists going to semi-finals. First came the report of which bands had earned a Distinguished rating (an 80 or above), in performance order. The emcee calls out Mayfield, then a long pause, then Cumberland County. The Cumberland County band had earned its first Distinguished rating for the season. This was followed by the announcement of which bands would be going to semi-finals and presentation of performance packets and draw for semi-final position. Cumberland County had placed first in regionals and drew position 16 for Class A semi-final performance. This is the highest ranking that the Cumberland County band has achieved in school history. The Cumberland County High School Marching Panther Band has made its first step towards the Class A Final Four. On October 20th, the Cumberland County band will be competing against 15 bands as the best of the west meets the best of the east. The Class A semi-finals will be held at Butler High School, in Louisville (222 Crums Lane). Cumberland County will perform at approximately 2:00 p.m. EST. There will be four bands emerging from this event to compete in the state finals at Papa John’s stadium later that evening (beginning at 5 p.m. EST). The community is encouraged to come and support the CCHS Marching Panther Band as they make their bid for the Final Four and an outstanding over all ranking. Show the Pride! Show the Talent! March on BIG GREEN! March on!

Grand jury returns indictments
October 10, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments recently. Erin Melton Pitcock was indicted and charged with Retaliating Against a Participant in the Legal Process; Ella L. Alexnader - Trafficking in Marijuana within 1,000 Yards of a School; Steven King - Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Registry; John Short - Persistent Felony Offender; Tommy Reed - Criminal Mischief 1st Degree; John A. Neal - Theft of a Controlled Substance; Timmy Medlin - Assault 3rd Degree, Disorderly Conduct and Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Tina L. Lauderdale - Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Trafficking in Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Improper Registration Plate and Failure to Register Transfer of Motor Vehicle; Keith D. Stiltz - Manufacturing Methamphetamine, Assault 3rd Degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Timothy Neill, Jr. - Receiving Stolen Property, Operating a Motor Vehicle with Alcohol Concentration of or above 0.08 or while Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 2nd Offense, Operating a Motor Vehicle While License is Revoked or Suspended for Driving Under the Influence Third or More Offense, Leaving the Scene of an Accident and Criminal Mischief 3rd Degree. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

CCHS Marching Band takes first in Class A and 5th overall
October 3, 2007 Issue
On Saturday, September 29, the Cumberland County Marching Band headed to Ohio County to participate in the Ohio County Marching Invitational, the oldest marching event in Kentucky. The Panther band attacked the field taking first place in Class A competition and best in Class A percussion, as well as best in Class A Color Guard. This accomplishment prepared them for the finals where they competed against 11 other bands in all classes. The Proud Panther Band placed 5th overall edging out Central Harden, a 5A band, and a new rival, Muhlenberg South, a 2A band. Daviess County took Grand Champion. This was a great step for the Cumberland County High School Band as they march their way to the state finals. This coming weekend, Saturday, October 6, the band will be heading to the South Laurel Cardinal Classic Invitational in London, Ky. This will give the Panther Band the opportunity to compete against bands from the Eastern region, which they will meet in semi-finals. The Panther Band will enter the field of competition at 3:45 EST, and will compete against the Hazard band, among others which historically have made the state finals. On Friday, October 12 at 7:00 p.m. CST, the Panther Band will hold a Senior Night exhibition at the practice field. This will be a fine opportunity to show support and view an outstanding show. The Panther Band is still ranked first in the West and this is a great time to get behind the band and wish them success.  “MARCH ON BIG GREEN!!! MARCH ON.”

Police kept busy with meth and marijuana
September 26, 2007 Issue
Local law enforcement has been kept busy with more meth labs and marijuana. Cumberland County Deputy Sheriff Kenny Brown confiscated a mobile meth lab Wednesday morning on Hwy. 61 South at KY 214 after a traffic stop. Brian W. Thompson, 27, and Corrine Carter Thompson, 27, both of Celina, Tennessee, were arrested and charged with Manufacturing Meth. Burkesville Police Officers Lawrence Nettles and Junior Smith, Commonwealth Detective Eddie Paul Murphy and Cumberland County Deputy Sheriff Scot Daniels assisted Brown at the scene, and the meth lab was dismantled. Upon further investigation by Brown and Murphy, a search warrant was obtained for the residence of Todd McKinley Anderson on Oakland Street. Inside the residence, Brown, Murphy and Nettles found an active meth lab, a large quantity of marijuana and several items of drug paraphernalia. The Burkesville Police Department, Cumberland County Sheriff¹s Office, Burkesville Fire Department, Cumberland County Rescue Squad and Cumberland County EMS all assisted at the scene. The meth lab was dismantled by local meth technicians. Anderson, 38, was arrested and charged with Manufacturing Meth, Trafficking Marijuana and several other charges. The house was quarantined by the local health department until state laboratory tests are conducted. If you have any tips about suspected drug activity, please contact the Cumberland County Sheriff¹s Office at 864-4321 or the Burkesville Police Department at 864-4141.

Thrasher injured in accident
September 19, 2007 Issue
Chad Thrasher, 23, was injured in an one vehicle accident last Tuesday evening on Leslie Road. According to Cumberland County Deputy Sheriff Kenny Brown, Thrasher was traveling south on Leslie Road when his vehicle left the roadway and overturned. Thrasher was flown from the scene by AirEvac to Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville. He was released from the hospital on Friday.

Three wreck in Sawmill Cut
September 12, 2007 Issue
Local police were kept busy Monday with three accidents occurring in the Sawmill Cut (Hwy. 90 West). Tim Rowe of Burkesville, was traveling west on Hwy. 90 early Monday morning in a Ford F150 when he lost control on the slick roadway. Rowe was treated and released at the Cumberland County Hospital. He was wearing a seat belt. Burkesville Police Officer Shawn Inabnitt investigated the accident. At around 4:30 Monday afternoon, Michael Vibbert of Burkesville was traveling west when he lost control on the wet roadway. He was not injured. At 6 p.m. Monday, Weldon Parmley of Burkesville was traveling west in a Chevrolet truck when he lost control. He was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from his vehicle. He was taken to Cumberland County Hospital. Both accidents were investigated by Cumberland County Deputy Sheriff Randy Abernathy.

Grand jury returns indictments on one
September 5, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on August 23. These indictments were previously sealed and were released after the other indictments had been printed last week.
- Donald G. Vincent, 43, was indicted and charged with two counts of Unauthorized Procurement of Controlled Substance and Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Meth lab seized from car, officer receives minor burns
August 29, 2007 Issue
Two people were arrested for manufacturing methamphetamine during a routine traffic stop Saturday night on Hwy. 61 South at Jackson Hollow Road. A vehicle driven by Tina Lauderdale, 42, of Edmonton, was stopped for improper registration by Burkesville Police Officer Junior Smith. The passenger in the vehicle, Keith Stiltz, 41, of Edmonton, became “antsy” according to Smith, and began putting his hands under the seat. Smith and Officer Lawrence Nettles began questioning Stiltz, who then reached under the seat and retrieved a 2-liter Mountain Dew bottle with a product in it that was not soda. Stiltz then got out of the car and pitched the bottle which landed approximately three feet from Smith. Vapors from the bottle, which contained meth in the process of cooking, hit Smith causing minor chemical burns on his arm and face. Smith was taken to Cumberland County Hospital to be checked and decontaminated. He was treated and released. Local meth technicians were on the scene for approximately three hours to decontaminate the scene. Stiltz was arrested and charged with Manufacturing Meth 1st, Trafficking in Meth and 1st Degree Assault of a Police Officer. Lauderdale was arrested and charged with Manufacturing Meth 1st, Trafficking in Meth, Improper Registration and Failure to Register a Transfer. Also responding to the scene were the Cumberland County Sheriff¹s Office, the Burkesville Fire Department, the Cumberland County Rescue Squad, Cumberland County EMS, Fish and Wildlife officers and Cumberland County constables.

Grand jury returns indictments
August 29, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on August 23.
- Eva Neathery, 46, was indicted and charged with Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd Degree.
- Dustin Barnes, 18, was indicted and charged with Engaging in Organized Crime-Criminal Syndicate and three counts of Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition.
- Anthony Barger, 34, was indicted and charged with Receiving Stolen Property and Engaging in Organized Crime-Criminal Syndicate.
- John Short, 31, was indicted and charged with Engaging in Organized Crime-Criminal Syndicate.
- Arlie Grubbs, 19, was indicted and charged with Receiving Stolen Property and Engaging in Organized Crime-Criminal Syndicate.
- Nina Secula, 21, was indicted and charged with Engaging in Organized Crime-Criminal Syndicate.
- Tommy E. Phillips, 31, was indicted and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree (Meth).
 - Floyd Owens, 45, was indicted and charged with Possession of Controlled Substances Not in Original Container, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree, Possession of a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree and Tampering with Physical Evidence. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Several break-ins reported
August 22, 2007 Issue
Robbery attempts have been made at approximately five homes in Cumberland County have been in the past two weeks. Cumberland County Sheriff’s Deputy Scot Daniels said incidents have occurred at the Doug Williams residence, a Holmes residence, the Darrell Moons’ residence, a home in Grider and the Jerry Dodson residence. Daniels asks residents to report any suspicious activity to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department at 864-4321 or the Burkesville City Police at 864-4141. “Watch out for yourself and your neighbor,” Daniels said.

TCEMC asking customers for voluntary electric conservation
August 15, 2007 Issue
At TVA’s request, Tri-County Electric is asking all our members to voluntarily conserve electrical usage during the extreme heat we are experiencing to allow TVA to meet their peak demands. Energy conservation is especially needed during the late afternoon and early evening hours when electricity use is reaching record levels. This will hopefully avoid mandatory curtailments in the future. As higher temperatures equal higher energy usage which result in higher electric bills, Tri-County Electric offers these energy saving practices:
- Keep curtains closed on the south and west sides of the house during the day;
- Use the microwave for cooking, and;
- Operate large appliances, such as dishwashers and laundry units, only with full loads and after 8 p.m.

Radford critically injured in accident last week
August 8, 2007 Issue
A Burkesville teenager was critically injured last Wednesday night after apparently falling from the vehicle he was a passenger in. According to the Cumberland County Sheriff¹s Office, Dylan Radford, 16, was a front seat passenger in a Jeep Wrangler traveling on Hwy. 449 from Robert Ridge, near Finley Road, with three other teenagers. Deputy Sheriff Kenny Brown said Radford apparently fell from the vehicle onto the highway. The jeep was open, with no sides or doors. Radford was transported to Cumberland County Hospital and later flown to the University of Louisville Hospital with severe head injuries. At presstime he remains in critical condition. Assisting Brown with the accident was Sheriff James Pruitt.

Four arrested and charged with murder of 14-year-old
August 1, 2007 Issue
Four Burkesville residents were arrested last week and charged with murder in connection with the 2006 death of a 14-year-old girl. On July 19, a Cumberland County Grand Jury indicted Jamie Cleary, 40, Lavonda L. Garner, 34, Teresa G. Riley, 45, and Mark L. Riley, 41, with murder in connection to the death of Kristan Cleary, 14, who died May 16, 2006 at her home. The indictments for Cleary and Garner, parents of Kristan Cleary, say ³that between May 15-May 16, 2006, Cleary and Garner committed murder under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to human life when his/her minor child was brought to his/her residence unconscious due to the excessive amount of alcohol being consumed and he did not seek medical attention on the minor child¹s behalf causing death of the minor child. The indictments for the Rileys, aunt (and her husband) of Kristan Cleary, say that between May 15-16, 2006, the Rileys committed murder under circumstances manifesting extreme indifference to human life when a minor child in his/her custody and during that time the child consumed an excessive amount of alcohol thereby causing her death. All four were detained on a $500,000 cash/$1 million property bond. Kentucky State Police Detective Kevin Hunt is investigating the case.

Grand jury returns indictments
August 1, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on July 19. Mark Riley, 41, was indicted and charged with Murder; Teresa Riley, 45, Murder; Jamie Cleary, 40, Murder; Lavonda Garner, 34, Murder; Steve Walker, 40, Trafficking in Marijuana; Jordan Davis, 22, Theft of a Controlled Substance; Amanda Eversole, 22, Theft of a Controlled Substance and Possession of Controlled Substances Not in Original Container. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Three injured in accident last Wednesday
July 25, 2007 Issue
Three local people were injured in a two-vehicle accident last Wednesday afternoon on Hwy. 90 East near Page’s Grocery, nine miles east of Burkesville. According to Kentucky State Police, Mitchell Guffey, 27, of Glasgow, was traveling east on Hwy. 90 in a Chevrolet TrailBlazer, when he made a left turn into the path of Tina Collins, 35, of Burkesville, who was traveling west in a 2004 Nissan Altima. Mary Todd Stephenson, 50, of Burkesville, and Barbara Moore, 53, also of Burkesville, were passengers in the Collins vehicle. Moore was flown to the University of Louisville Hospital. Collins and Stephenson were admitted to Cumberland County Hospital. Guffey refused treatment at the scene. Guffey, Collins and Stephenson were wearing seat belts, Moore was not. Jeremy Bowen of Campbellsville, a local UPS driver, extinguished an engine fire on the Nissan Altima while he was at the scene. The accident was investigated by Trooper Nathan Cary.

Applications being taken this Saturday for company considering locating in Burkesville
July 18, 2007 Issue
A company is considering Burkesville-Cumberland County as a site to build a new factory. Cumberland Workforce Investment, through the Department of Labor, will be taking applications this Saturday, July 21, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Community Center on Upper River Street
(across from City Hall). City and county government, the Burkesville-Cumberland County Industrial Development Board, along with state and federal officials and agencies have jointly put together an attractive proposal which includes 14 acres of land, utilities, and road and parking development to offer this industry. The proposal also includes low interest loans to construct a factory. “Working together, we have purchased a site for a new industry, have large local and state tax credits approved and available, received a $500,000 grant from the state for economic development, and are eligible for reimbursement for the job training and training at the KCTCS Center,” Cumberland County Judge Executive Tim Hicks said. Hicks added that the proposal also includes low interest financing over a 10-year period. “The package we can offer to an industry to locate in Cumberland County is competitive or exceeds incentives offered by other communities,” Hicks said. The company currently considering Cumberland County for the location of its expansion has worked with local officials over the past several months. The company has narrowed the site of its new plant to Burkesville and one other location. A final commitment from the company will not be made until they can review the number of applications received this Saturday. “The interest shown at this job fair Saturday will determine whether this company chooses to locate in our community,” Burkesville Mayor Keith Riddle said. “Their purpose is to see if we have the work force to support their company’s needs. I urge everyone interested in jobs in the fields of welding, electricity, maintenance, etc. to attend the job fair and learn about the opportunities being offered.”

Capps killed accident on State Park Road
July 11, 2007 Issue
A Cumberland County man was killed in an unusual accident early Tuesday morning on KY 1206 (State Park Road). According to Kentucky State Police, Christopher D. Capps, 32, of Burkesville, was lying in the roadway in the eastbound lane of KY 1206 around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday. Stacy Wray, 30, of Burkesville, was traveling east on KY 1206 and struck Capps, who died from his injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene by Cumberland County Coroner Gary White. Wray was not injured. Capps was the son of Denver Capps and the late Juanita Capps. A complete obituary will appear in next week’s Cumberland County News.

Local resident, Chris Korrow, shares his bug expertise on national PBS program
July 4, 2007 Issue
A local resident is sharing is bug expertise on national television. Colorful closeup photography and an original theme music score, combined with facts about insect habitats and life cycles, offer viewers a documentary film that is at once informative and appealing. Garden Insects airs Sunday, July 8 at 9:30 central time on KET1 and Thursday, July 12 at 9:30 p.m. central time on KET2. The unique aspect of the program is that producer and Kentuckian Chris Korrow is both a filmmaker and an organic farmer. His insights come from hours in the fields and a love for the garden ecosystem. Chris is a Cumberland County resident and he lives on Bull Ridge Road with his wife Christy and their two daughters.

Former county court clerk arrested
June 27, 2007 Issue
A former Cumberland County Court Clerk has been arrested after a four-month investigation, Kentucky State Police said Monday. Lynn Groce, 47, of Burkesville, Cumberland County Court Clerk from 2003 to 2006, was arrested Monday and charged with seven counts of abuse of public trust. State police allege that Groce took over $60,000 from 2004 through December 2006. A local grand jury indicted Groce on June 21 with the seven counts. She was indicted on two counts of abuse of public trust greater than $10,000 but less than $100,000 and five counts of abuse of public trust less than $10,000. Groce was booked at the Adair County Jail and released on bond. Her arraignment is scheduled for July 19.

Mullinix sells WKYR to Crabtree
June 27, 2007 Issue
Three years after a lease/purchase agreement between WKYR, Inc. (Libby Mullinix) and Cumberland Broadcasting, LLC (Judy Jessie² Crabtree), the local radio station has sold to Crabtree. The sale was completed Tuesday, June 12. WKYR (107.9 FM) went on-air in December 1975. Libby Mullinix¹s late husband, Ray Mullinix was the general manager and later became the owner. He was there for 27 years until his untimely death in 2002. “Ray would want WKYR to go forward and remain to serve the people of Burkesville and Cumberland County,” Libby said. “For the past three years Jessie has done a wonderful job with ‘KYR. I wish her well and Godspeed.” “I am very pleased about purchasing WKYR from Libby,” Crabtree said. “She has always been proud of the station and the community service it provides. And I couldn¹t be happier. It is with great pleasure that I will continue to serve Burkesville and surrounding communities.” Crabtree, who has worked at numerous stations the past 25 years, says everyone has made her feel welcome in the community and Burkesville and Cumberland County support their radio station better than any community she has ever worked in.

Grand jury returns indictments
June 27, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments on June 21. Lynn Willis Groce, 47, was indicted and charged with seven counts of Abuse of Public Trust. Rebecca Vibbert, 24, was indicted and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree, Tampering with Physical Evidence, Possession of a Controlled Substance 2nd Degree and two counts of Possession of Controlled Substances Not in Original Container. Eva Neathery, 46, was indicted and charged with Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd Degree. Kelvin Jones, 33, was indicted and charged with Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition. Nicole M. Moran, 27, was indicted and charged with Complicity to Theft By Unlawful Taking Over $300. Charity L. McCoy, 26, was indicted and charged with Complicity to Theft By Unlawful Taking Over $300. Nathaniel Abney, 22, was indicted and charged with Escape 2nd Degree. Adam Lynch was indicted and charged with Burglary 3rd Degree and Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition. Eric Schorman, 22, was indicted and charged with two counts of Unlawful Transactions With a Minor 2nd Degree, Criminal Attempt to Commit Burglary 2nd Degree and Criminal Mischief 3rd Degree. Stephen Shane Flatt, 35, was indicted and charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle With Alcohol Concentration of or above 0.08 or While Under the Influence of Alcohol or Other Substance 4th Offense, Operating a Motor Vehicle While License is Revoked or Suspended for Driving Under the Influence, Disorderly Conduct 2nd Degree, Resisting Arrest, Display/Possession of Fictitious Operator¹s License, Possession of Open Alcoholic Beverage Container and Persistent Felony Offender 1st Degree. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Trout limit changed in lower Cumberland River
June 20, 2007 Issue
Beginning Saturday, June 16, anglers may keep 10 trout of any size taken from the lower Cumberland River from the state line to a point 100 yards upstream of the public boat ram at Burkesville. A fishing license and a trout permit are still necessary to fish this section of river. Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Commissioner Jon Gassett authorized an emergency measure liberalizing the limits on this 40-mile section of the state’s premier trout river due to high water temperatures. Because of the Lake Cumberland drawdown and the ongoing drought, water flows are lower than normal and temperatures are increasing. Water temperatures are becoming too high in the lower section of the river to support trout, which are a cold-water species. “Under the current conditions, the odds of trout surviving in the lower river are not good,” Gassett said. “We decided to make the best of a bad situation by giving anglers an opportunity to keep more fish.” Fisheries Director Benjy Kinman said he expects the department to rescind the special limit once water conditions improve in fall.

Local dentist facing federal charges
June 13, 2007 Issue
Last Wednesday, a Federal Grand Jury returned an indictment on a local dentist. Dr. Mary Todd Stephenson was indicted on three counts of illegally distributing painkillers without a medical purpose. The indictment lists three times when Stephenson allegedly prescribed hydrocodone and Lorcet without reason. If convicted, she faces a maximum 15-year sentence, a $750,000 fine and a three-year term of supervised release. She could also lose her share in the dental office where she practices. Stephenson is scheduled for arraignment on June 20 in Bowling Green. On Friday, June 8, agents with the Kentucky Bureau of Investigation/Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control Division, along with investigators from the Kentucky State Police, the DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency), and the HIDTA (High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas) Task Force executed a search warrant at 405 N. Main Street where Stephenson practices dentistry. Vicki Glass, a spokeswoman in the Attorney General’s office said the search warrant was a result of an ongoing investigation regarding fraudulent claims being filed to and paid by the Kentucky Medical Assistance Program to Stephenson.

Drought conditions will adversely affect the Cumberland River Basin
June 6, 2007 Issue
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Nashville District, announced today that drought conditions in the Cumberland River Basin will lead to modified operations of Cumberland River Basin reservoirs in order to reduce, to the  extent possible, the adverse impacts along the river. Adverse impacts will affect project purposes all along the Cumberland River from Laurel River Lake to  Lake Barkley. There will be adverse impacts to project purposes including: recreation, hydropower, navigation, water quality, and water  supply as well as to fisheries along the Cumberland River and fossil fuel power plants along the Cumberland River. The drought conditions being experienced in the Cumberland River Basin are due to lack of precipitation during early 2007. The impacts of the drought will be greater than normal due to operating restrictions at Lake Cumberland and Center Hill Lakes. Wolf Creekand Center Hill Dams are being operated at lower levelsafter being classified ashigh risk dams. Both dams have major rehabilitation projects ongoing. "It is the end of beginning of June and  we are seeing conditions that we would not normally see until the end of August in a typically dry year," said Bob Sneed, Chief of the Water  Management Section, Nashville District. "I am also concerned about the  low dissolved oxygen levels (DO) at some of our reservoirs. For instance, Old Hickory Lake is seeing the lowest DO levels since 1988. Fish kills are possible if water temperatures in the Cumberland River continue to rise and the dissolved oxygen levels continue to drop. Warmer water puts stress on fish overtime and then the lower dissolved oxygen rates make the water uninhabitable for fish, according to Sneed.

Relay for Life nets over $34,000
June 6, 2007 Issue
The annual Relay for Life event was held Friday night through Saturday morning with approximately $34,852 raised for the American Cancer Society.

Veterans, past and present, honored
May 30, 2007 Issue
Local veterans, past and present, were honored Friday, May 25 during a memorial ceremony held by local officials. A new name has been added to the World War II list on the monument on the courthouse yard. Marshal C. Webb, who was a member of the “Thunderbolt” infantry who left Burkesville on Feb. 1, 1944. He was killed in action in April, 1945 and is buried in an American cemetery in Holland. Webb left behind a wife, Mabel and two young sons, Jesse and Randall. Jesse was on hand Friday to honor his father who died when he was only 11 years old.

Grand jury returns indictments
May 23, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury recently returned the following indictments. Mary S. Upchurch was indicted and charged with Arson 1st Degree, Criminal Attempt to Commit Murder, Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree and Criminal Mischief 1st Degree; Kelvin D. Jones - Kidnapping, Robbery 1st Degree, Assault 1st Degree and Fleeing or Evading Police 1st Degree; James P. Sears - Kidnapping, Robberty 1st Degree, Complicity to Assault 1st Degree and Fleeing or Evading Police 1st Degree; Erik M. Hendricks - Receiving Stolen Property, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Operator’s License and Failure to Maintain Required Insurance on a Motor Vehicle; Betty C. Patterson - Assault 3rd Degree, Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct 2nd Degree and Alcohol Intoxication; Teddy Weiss - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree, Giving a Peace Officer a False Name and Alcohol Intoxication; Timmy Medlin - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition and Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; Oscar Flowers - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Trafficking in a Controlled Substance within 1,000 Yards of a School. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge..

Hot Shots bring home 29 trophies from Lake Cumberland Area Meet
May 16, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Hot Shots 4-H Shooting Sports Team opened its season on Saturday, April 21 at Pulaski County. The Hot Shots received 13 trophies in the quiet gun competition and 16 in the loud gun division.

Local woman arrested on arson and attempted murder charges
May 9, 2007 Issue
A Burkesville woman was arrested on April 30 in connection to a house fire that occurred April 26 in the Ashlock Community. According to Kentucky State Police, Mary S. Upchurch, 47, was arrested and charged with Arson 1st Degree, Attempted Murder, Wandon Endangerment 1st Degree and Criminal Mischief 1st Degree. KSP Detective Alex Wesley is investigating the case.

Dale Hollow Lake elevations will be impacted by work at dam
May 9, 2007 Issue
The decision to maintain Lake Cumberland at a lower 680-foot elevation for the seepage rehabilitation project at Wolf Creek Dam, will cause some changes in the water elevation at Dale Hollow Lake this summer. Dale Hollow may maintain a higher than usual water elevation early in 2007 and then, later in the year, may be drawn down to a level that is lower than customarily seen. Lake Cumberland, as a storage facility, typically supplies water to the Cumberland River for a variety of authorized purposes and that storage capability will be lost during the rehabilitation project at Wolf Creek Dam. Dale Hollow will assume some of the water supply mission for Lake Cumberland in 2007. While there may be some inconveniences for visitors to Dale Hollow, such as high or low water on beaches, access ramps to courtesy floats underwater, and campsites and parking lots covered with water, this should not have an adverse effect on the visitor's experience. Alternative launch and parking locations are available and campers with reservations affected by high water will have an alternative camping site. The staff at Dale Hollow does request that visitors use caution near the shoreline or developed areas and that they be aware that there may be structures underwater that could damage vessels. Visitors should also be mindful of wakes, tie-ups and prop washout when near the bank. Your courtesy will help us (U. S. Army corps of Engineers) not add to the problem of shoreline erosion. Of course, the lake elevation will be contingent on the amount of rainfall received.

Grand Jury returns indictments
May 2, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury recently returned the following indictments. William J. West was indicted and charged with Defrauding a Secured Creditor; Jonathan Gilbert - Persistent Felony Offender 2nd Degree; April Mabrey - Criminal Mischief 2nd Degree; Eric White - Receiving Stolen Property, Fleeing or Evading Police 2nd Degree and Criminal Mischief 2nd Degree; Charles J. Thurman - Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition and Burglary 3rd Degree; Donald R. Pruitt - Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st Degree, Trafficking in Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Note: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but tht enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge. .

New marina planned for Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park
May 2, 2007 Issue
Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park will be getting a new $5 million marina featuring 200 boat slips and other improved services for boaters. The new marina will be built and operated by The Webb Companies of Lexington, which won the bid to build and operate the marina at the state resort park. The state will receive a percentage of the marina revenue in return.

Schools to hold evacuation drill next Thursday, May 3
April 25, 2007 Issue
Cumberland County Schools will hold a practice of their evacuation plan on Thursday, May 3rd, according to Superintendent of Schools, John L. Hurt. “We are letting everyone know in advance so there won’t be any anxiety about there being an actual emergency,” said Hurt. An informational letter was sent home with every student earlier this week in addition to getting information on the local radio station and newspaper. Teachers and staff are also working with students at every grade level to prepare them for the drill. “We think it’s important that we practice an evacuation so the students, staff and the community will know what to expect should an actual emergency arise,” Hurt said. “It also allows us to test our plan and evaluate its effectiveness so we can continue to improve it.”

Gravity Race coming soon!
April 18, 2007 Issue
The Veterans Gravity Race down old Bear Creek Hill is one month away! On Saturday, May 19th, a group of pioneers will make his history. They will be the first to race down Bear Creek Hill in their homemade race carts powered only by gravity. There will be no charge for spectators, so come out and watch these non-motorized creations compete. There are no bleachers or grandstands, yet, so be sure to bring your lawn chairs and your race-fan enthusiasm. Refreshments and t-shirts will be available for this historical event. If we are “rained out” on May 19, we will have the race on June 9. Another race is in the planning stages for July 2007.

Blankets being collected for Sudan refugees
April 11, 2007 Issue
Living Word Ministries, in conjunction with Voice of the Martyrs, is collecting blankets to be distributed among the refugees in Sudan. Many people do not realize that most of the victims of the Civil War have nothing to do with the political strife and are forced to flee their home literally with nothing more than the clothes on their backs. These refugees, many of them children, are forced to sleep outside on the ground enduring the cold desert nights with nothing to cover them. Donate your new or gently used blanket along with $2 to cover the cost of oversees shipping. Blankets needed are full, queen or king size, preferably cotton or synthetic blends. No wool, sleeping bags or comforters, baby blankets, afghans, quilts or army or camouflage blankets. Drop off your blanket at Living Word Ministries, two miles east of Burkesville, on Hwy. 90, Tuesday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Cleanest Subway Store 2006
April 4, 2007 Issue
Subway of Burkesville, owned by Karen Black, has received the "Cleanest Store of 2006" award from Subway Development of Kentucky for being the cleanest store of all 197 Subway stores in the state.

Local woman hurt during robbery
March 28, 2007 Issue
A local woman was injured during a robbery at a local business early Wednesday morning. According to Burkesville Police Chief Steve Wheat, Carolyn Meza, 39, of Burkesville, was working at Riverfront Lodge, Keen Street, around 2:30 a.m. when two men entered the building inquiring about a room. Meza told police when she turned to register the men, she was hit in the back of the head. She received another blow to the back of the head, and then blocked another blow which broke her hand. She was treated and released at Cumberland County Hospital. Wheat said she had several stitches. The perpetrators, Kevin Jones, 33, of Glasgow, and James Sears, 33, of Park City, overpowered Meza and bound her hands with duct tape and fled the scene with approximately $600. At around 3 a.m. Cumberland County Sheriff's Deputy Randy Abernathy spotted the suspect's vehicle and began pursuit. The suspect lost control and wrecked on Hwy. 90 west, near Marrowbone, and fled the scene. At around 8:30 a.m., a call came from a residence in Marrowbone reporting a suspicious man knocking on doors. Police responded and arrested James Sears. Tompkinsville authorities arrested Kevin Jones in Monroe County. Both were charged with 1st Degree Robbery, Kidnapping and Criminal Mischief. Wheat said more arrests and charges are pending. The $600 was recovered.

Weather radios will be distributed Saturday
March 21, 2007 Issue
Gov. Ernie Fletcher has announced distribution information for emergency alert weather radios being provided free of charge to residents and businesses located within the flood inundation area below Wolf Creek Dam in Cumberland, Clinton, Monroe and Russell Counties. This week residents and businesses will receive cards via mail providing them with distribution information. To receive a weather radio, each individual receiving a card must bring the card and a proof of residency (photo ID or utility bill) this Saturday to the Veterans Memorial Community Center (213 Upper River Street) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. WBKO will be on-site to program your radio. Individuals who are disabled or have special needs and are unable to pick up their radio may call the Lake Cumberland Community Action Agency at 1-800-928-6382 and a radio will be delivered to them.

Three arrested on drug charges
March 14, 2007 Issue
On Sunday, March 11, Cumberland County Sheriff's Deputy Kenny Brown and Burkesville Police Officer Ricky Marcum stopped a vehicle driven by a juvenile and passenger Matthew Cope for failure to wear seat belts. They were both arrested and charged with trafficking marijuana under 8 ounces. During the traffic stop the vehicle was searched and approximately three ounces of marijuana was seized. After a brief investigation a third individual, Steve Walker of Burkesville, was arrested for trafficking in marijuana second offense, a class D felony.

Lady Panthers win district title for first time in 22 years
March 7, 2007 Issue
For the first time in 22 years the Cumberland County Lady Panthers won the 16th district basketball tournament as they defeated the host school, Metcalfe County, 51-39, in the championship game last Thursday night.

Three injured in accident
February 28, 2007 Issue
Three local people were injured in a two-vehicle accident last Wednesday afternoon on KY 100. According to Kentucky State Police, John S. Cembruch, 63, of Burkesville, was traveling east on KY 100, in the overturned Ford Explorer above, when he lost control of his vehicle in a curve, overcorrected and struck a Buick La Sabre, being driven by Cecil Hall Dyer, 74, also of Burkesville. Cembruch was transferred to St. Thomas Hospital in Nashville, Tenn. and his passenger, Mary Cembruch, was taken to Cumberland County Hospital. Dyer was taken to Cumberland County Hospital and then transferred to UK Medical Center. The Burkesville Volunteer and Marrowbone Fire Departments were on the scene to extricate John and Mary Cembruch from their vehicle.

Grand jury returns indictments
February 28, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments recently. Robert Covey, 38, was indicted and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance in the First Degree, Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Second Degree and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Leland B. Neal, 37 - Marijuana Cultivation. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was pr

Governor talks about dam, says safety is top priority
February 21, 2007 Issue
Approximately 250 concerned citizens turned out to hear Governor Ernie Fletcher discuss Wolf Creek Dam Friday evening at the Veterans Memorial Community Center. Gov. Fletcher and cabinet officials he appointed to assist with the Wolf Creek Dam repair issue discussed the dam situation then answered questions from the crowd. "Public safety is first," Gov. Fletcher told the crowd. "I want to emphasize that a dam breach is not imminent, but we do not know what will happen in the future. Our first priority is the safety of individuals."

Towns below Wolf Creek Dam to receive funding for early warning system equipment
February 14, 2007 Issue
Governor Ernie Fletcher today announced that several communities in Russell, Cumberland, Clinton and Monroe Counties will receive important early warning system equipment. Communities in each county will be provided a reverse 911 system, while a number of local citizens and businesses will be supplied with weather radios. Additionally, the counties will receive an upgrade to their 911 systems by installing enhanced 911 in each county. Enhanced 911 provides 911 dispatchers with caller information on 911 calls. I am committed to ensuring the public health and safety of every citizen, business, and visitor to Lake Cumberland while preserving the great quality of life in the region, said Governor Ernie Fletcher. Public safety in the Wolf Creek Dam area is our top priority and this equipment will enable a more efficient emergency response to any potential natural or man-made emergency involving these communities. Reverse 911 systems improve the lines of communication to the general population and targeted groups. Reverse 911 users such as local emergency response personnel can quickly target a precise geographic area and saturate it with thousands of calls per hour. The system’s interactive technology provides immediate interaction with recipients and aids in rapid response to specific needs. Users can also create a list of individuals with common characteristics (such as a Neighborhood Crime Watch group or emergency responder teams) and contact them with helpful information as needed. Weather Radios continuously broadcasts National Weather Service forecasts, warnings and other crucial weather information. The radios can be programmed to receive information specific to a certain area, using the Specific Area Message Encoder (SAME) feature, and can sound an alarm to alert users of approaching dangerous weather. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Weather Radio is the lone government- operated radio system that provides direct warnings to the public for natural and man- made hazards, from floods to forest fires, to oil spills. It also is the primary trigger for activating America’s Emergency Alert System on commercial radio and television stations. Additionally, the citizens and businesses of each county directly below the Wolf Creek Dam currently have access only to Basic 911. These funds will provide for an upgrade to Enhanced 911 (E911), improving the effectiveness and reliability of landline and wireless 911 services by providing 911 dispatchers with additional information on 911 calls. The equipment will be paid for by Kentucky Office of Homeland Security funds. It is critical that we provide local emergency personnel in these communities with the ability to communicate effectively with the public during an emergency, said (Ret) Maj. Alecia Webb-Edgington, director of the Kentucky Office of Homeland Security. Improving public safety is our number one goal as we work to implement a strategy based on preparedness for all emergencies: natural or man-made.

2005 Audit of County Clerk's Office released, Kentucky State Police notified of findings
February 7, 2007 Issue
State Auditor Crit Luallen released the 2005 audit of the Cumberland County Clerk's Office. State law requires the Auditor's Office to conduct annual audits of county clerk's Findings during the 2005 calendar year led the Auditor's Office to review 2006 records through August 31. The audit discovered that the Cumberland County Clerk's Office had $26,244 in undeposited receipts between January 1, 2005 and August 31, 2006. Undeposited receipts consist of money that came into the Clerk's Office but was not deposited in the Clerk's official accounts or money owed the office that was never collected. Of this amount, $16,536 was personally withheld by the clerk, Lynn Groce, and combined with her personal funds. $2,528 was repaid leaving a combined balance of $14,008. This amount is taxpayer money that should be in the Clerk's Official accounts. The Kentucky State Police have been notified of the audit's findings. Among the nine findings was that the clerk expended more to operate her office than the income earned by the office leaving a $9,440 deficit. Also, the audit found that the clerk did not properly submit deed transfer tax payments to the Cumberland County Fiscal Court. The Clerk's Office owes the Cumberland County Fiscal Court $46,214 for 2004, 2005 and 2006 through August 31. The audit recommends that the Clerk personally reimburse the Clerk's Office and the Cumberland County Fiscal Court the money diverted or withheld. The total reimbursement would be $61,038. This report, with responses from the Cumberland County Clerk, is posted on the Internet at the following site: www.auditor.ky.gov

Lady Panthers win Fourth Region All A Classic
January 31, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County High School Lady Panthers captured, for the first time in school history, the Kentucky Touchstone Energy Fourth Region All A Classic, this past Friday night as they defeated the Russellville Lady Panthers 66-57 in the championship game held at Clinton County.

City council removes $200 cap on payroll tax
January 24, 2007 Issue
The Burkesville City Council met in regular session last Thursday evening with new Mayor Keith Riddle, new councilmen Kenny Booher, Odis Young and Kyle Booher present, along with Councilmen Billy Maxey and Ricky Branham. Councilman Harvey Graves was absent due to training. The council discussed the current $200 cap on the payroll tax and agreed it needed to be removed. The council approved removing the $200 cap with four voting yes, Kyle Booher, Kenny Booher, Odis Young, Ricky Branham. Maxey abstained.

4th Region All A Classic starts Monday night
January 17, 2007 Issue
The Kentucky Touchstone Energy 4th Region All A Classic will get underway next Monday night with first round action at various sites. There will be three girl-boy doubleheaders at three sites. The Cumberland County Lady Panthers and Panthers will host Glasgow at 6 p.m. Monday. The girls semi-finals will be held Wednesday night at Clinton County with the boys semi-finals being held Thursday night at Clinton County. The championship games will be held Friday night at Clinton County.

Grand jury returns indictments
January 10, 2007 Issue
The Cumberland County Grand Jury returned the following indictments recently. William Ray Kerney, 18, was indicted and charged with Assault 2nd Degree; Benjamin J. Gustafson, 21 - Burglary 2nd Degree and Criminal Mischief 3rd Degree; Todd M. Anderson, 37 - Setting Fire on Own Land Without Taking Precautions, Interfering with Forestry Officer, Criminal Mischief 1st Degree and Assault 2nd Degree; James Darrell Moons, 57 - Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree and Criminal Mischief 1st Degree. NOTE: An indictment is not a determination of innocence or guilt, but that enough evidence was presented to a grand jury to warrant a trial on the charge.

Ribbon cutting held at Copper Hollow Bed & Breakfast
January 3, 2007 Issue
Last Friday, a ribbon cutting and open house were held at Cumberland County's newest business, Copper Hollow Bed & Breakfast, located at 3462 State Park Road. The bed and breakfast offers five rooms with private baths and whirlpool tubs, flat screen TV's, wireless internet service and memory foam mattresses. The owners are Howard and Debbie Barnett.

Governor presents over $2.1 million for county projects; announces $20 million Highway Improvement Project
December 27, 2006 Issue
Governor Ernie Fletcher was in town last Wednesday to present ceremonial checks totaling over $2 million. The largest check, a $2 million Community Development Block Grant for Burkesville/Cumberland County Water Treatment Plant Expansion Project, was a surprise to local officials. Funds will be used to expand the Burkesville water treatment plant from a 0.5 million gallons per day facility to a 2.0 million gallons per day facility. The governor also presented $173,138 in agricultural diversification funding to the Cumberland County Agricultural Development Council. Fletcher also presented $25,000 in KYTC road bond funds to resurface various city streets in the City of Burkesville. Fletcher announced a project to make safety improvements to KY 90. Total funding for that project is estimated at over $20 million.

Cumberland County Middle School 6th Grade Academic Team places 1st
December 20, 2006 Issue
The Cumberland County Middle School 6th Grade Academic Team took part in the Kentucky Colonels' Sixth Grade Academic Showcase held on December 2nd at Barren County Middle School. Six schools competed in written assessment events in Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Language Arts and Arts/Humanities, and a double elimination Quick Recall Tournament. Cumberland County dominated and won first place overall with 51.5 points and the second place team, Glasgow, scored 38. The Quick Recall Team placed second.