By: Charles Romans
Carter County Times
The population of the City of Olive Hill grew by one last Tuesday, August 18. The city recognized Hayden the Miracle Pig at the council meeting, and a proclamation was read by Councilman Chris Bledsoe to that effect.
“The City of Olive Hill, Kentucky, Certificate of Proclamation recognizing Hayden the pig as an Honorary Citizen of Olive Hill,” Bledsoe read from the proclamation. “Whereas the City of Olive Hill takes great pride in the people, traditions, and personalities of the special characters that make our community unique. Whereas Hayden the pig has brought joy, smiles, conversation, and memorable presence to the city and visitors of Olive Hill. And whereas Hayden has become a beloved part of the community and represents the friendly, welcoming and good-natured spirit for which Olive Hill is known. And whereas the City of Olive Hill wishes to formally recognize Hayden for his special place in the hearts of the community. Now, therefore let it be proclaimed that the City of Olive Hill, Kentucky hereby recognizes and declares Hayden the pig to be an Honorary Citizen of the City of Olive Hill, Kentucky, with all the affection, recognition, and pride befitting such a distinguished member of our town. The city extends congratulations to Hayden and recognizes his contribution to the character, charm, and spirit of Olive Hill.”
The proclamation was met with applause for the five-month-old potbelly pig, Hayden, who overcame a birth defect so severe that it is believed that he is the only animal to have survived the condition beyond birth. Hayden was born with a hernia, and it left a hole in his diaphragm. Then his liver developed in the void, further complicating the situation.
After numerous trips to the veterinarian, Hayden’s owner Deborah Pack said that he is doing much better. Currently Hayden and Pack are traveling through communities in an effort to make people aware that even in the darkest times there is hope.
In other business, the city council discussed resolutions and conducted readings of the same. The council read and adopted the statewide mutual aid and assistance agreement, and also discussed vendor business licenses in the city. The second topic was the subject of much discussion as the council assessed all options in an attempt to both benefit the city and not put undue strain upon those hoping to vend within city limits.
Some aspects that needed to be addressed were who should be responsible for the cost of a license during an event inside the city limits, the event promoter or the individual vendor. There was also discussion of the difference between the operation of food trucks, which typically operate regularly, and individuals setting up just a few times per year. Mayor Jerry Callihan in particular called for working out a fair plan, saying that a person setting up a lemonade stand, for instance, shouldn’t be required to spend as much on a license as individuals who routinely made more sales.
Contact the writer at charles@cartercountytimes.com
