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Dealing with dogs: Grayson council postpones animal control decision

gray animal near cage
Photo by Pranidchakan Boonrom on Pexels.com

By Jeremy D. Wells
Carter County Times

The issue of animal control is one Grayson City Council has been attempting to come to agreement on for several years now.
The issue arose a couple years back, when Grayson, and later Olive Hill, rejected an agreement from the fiscal court that would have provided more service in exchange for financial support of the county animal shelter. Kentucky revised statutes require the shelter to accept animals from any county resident – even those within the cities of Olive Hill and Grayson – if those animals are brought to the shelter. However the county animal control officer has not been required to answer calls to pick up stray animals within the two cities. This has left the responsibility on city police, other city employees, or private individuals to transport animals to the shelter.

During this time city officials have continued to balk at the idea of either contributing to the shelter, or hiring their own animal control officers. The contention of the city government has been that residents of the cities are also residents of the county, who pay county taxes, and deserve the same amenities as other county residents who live outside of city limits. They’ve also pointed to an agreement reached with the county during prior administrations that led to the cities disbanding their own animal control departments. 

With no change in the situation, however, one of the suggestions floated by the mayor and council has been to hire a city employee in another department – with candidates including the street department and code enforcement – to work part time as a city animal control officer and part time in the other department.

Last week Grayson Mayor George Steele suggested another possibility could be to hire another full time employee with the street department, and to put animal control duties under that department. Steele explained that unlike the plan that called for someone to work part time in two different departments, this type of plan could allow the employee to stay busy with the same duties as other employees in the department, and would allow any employee of the street department to pick up stray animals.

While this plan wouldn’t give street department employees power to cite individuals for a violation of the city’s animal regulations – that, city attorney Jason Greer noted, would require someone with citation authority such as a police officer – it would give the city someone to call on for nuisance animal issues.

While another code enforcement officer would have that authority, police chief Travis Steele told council he would recommend that police issue any citations, regardless of what other department was held responsible for picking up and transporting animals.

“It’s not our responsibility,” Mayor Steele said, reiterating his belief that the county should be providing the service. “But if it’s going to be done, we’re going to have to do it.”

Councilman Troy Combs seemed to agree with Steele, making a motion that the city employ another full-time street department employee and to make animal pick-up one of the street department’s duties. Councilman Terry Stamper seconded the motion so that council could engage in discussion of the motion.

During that discussion councilman Bradley Cotten said while he was not opposed to the idea completely, he was not sure if the city had the money budgeted to cover the cost of another full-time position. Stamper suggested one option could be to create the position, and to add animal pick-up to the street department duties, but to not vote to fill the position until funds were budgeted.

But after discussing the situation, Stamper sided with the rest of council and voted not to approve the motion, leaving Combs as the lone yes vote.   

Cotten emphasized that his main reason for voting against the measure was because no one could answer his questions about budgeting for the position.
Councilman Jerry Yates, however, said he wasn’t ready to give up on holding fiscal court responsible for providing the service. Yates verified with Greer that council could all attend the next fiscal court meeting without violating state sunshine laws, provided they didn’t meet in private session or take any legislative action. Yates said he would be attending the next meeting of fiscal court to raise the issue once more, and encouraged his fellow councilpersons to join him.

In other action Mayor George Steele said that the city might “have to get tougher” on those who ignored warnings to comply with the city’s code enforcement, and Yates expressed concerns that subcontractors working on building projects within the city limits might not be paying their occupational taxes, despite city statutes requiring them to do so. Yates said the 30-day gap between reporting and filing of documentation might allow some subcontractors to slip through the gaps and leave town without paying their fair share of taxes. While he mentioned the quick turn-around on projects like the Dollar General construction, and the sheer number of subcontractors on the Windstream project by name, as examples, he said it would be especially egregious for subcontractors working on city funded projects to cheat on their taxes.
“We need to be mindful,” Yates told council. “That’s what fuels our economy.”
Locals, he noted, do not get out of paying their share of occupational taxes, and neither should outside contractors who come to the city to work.
Council also heard reports from the fire department on the delivery of a new truck, a new fire safety training trailer for teaching kids fire safety, and the proposed generator for the fire and police stations.

Council received two bids on that project, and chose to reject both and readvertise the project because of issues with both bids. The low bid on the project didn’t explicitly include a warranty, though a warranty could be implied since it was required in the bid advertisement. But council chose to err on the side of caution and reject both bids and readvertise.

Council also moved to recognize KY Humanities for 50 years of service, and to enter into the first reading of an ordinance to close an alley between Depot Avenue and Robert & Mary, where the county plans to construct a new health department building.

Contact the writer at editor@cartercountytimes.com

Doughboy off for repairs

The Grayson doughboy loaded and ready for repairs. (Photo by Jeremy D. Wells, Carter County Times)

By Jeremy D. Wells
Carter County Times

Carter County’s beloved doughboy statue has made his way to Oberlin, Ohio for repairs after toppling over last summer.

Judge Executive Mike Malone had the doughboy loaded onto his pickup truck last week for transport to McKay Lodge Conservation Laboratory (MLCL), in Oberlin, for repair and restoration.

Malone explained that MLCL will split the zinc statue down the side, install a new reinforced steel skeleton, then braise the statue back together, polish and remove all the old finish, and apply a new finish to give the statue its original bronze look.

They will also make repairs to the previously damaged rifle and hand at that time.

When the doughboy is returned to the community, however, Malone said he would like it to be placed in a more prominent and accessible location than the courthouse lawn, and he is seeking community input on where that should be.

One of the locations Malone suggested was at Veteran’s Park in Grayson. If it were placed in that park it and the brass plaques bearing the names of Carter County’s WWI veterans would be easier to visit, especially for those with mobility issues who might have had difficulty climbing the hill to see the statue in its original location.

Malone said that a local quarry was considering donating a piece of limestone to mount the statue on. In addition, he said, stone from the old county jail, which was recently slated for demolition, could be used to build benches or other features wherever the statue ends up being displayed.

He said once the statue has been repaired and returned to the county, the fiscal court will hold a public meeting to gauge public interest and solicit feedback on appropriate locations and ways to display the historic statue.

Contact the writer at editor@cartercountytimes.com

Pet of the Week: Meet Josie

Josie is a two-year-old female pit. She’s a very sweet, friendly girl. Josie has a free adoption with a donation of dog food, which includes rabies vaccination and being spayed. Stop by the Carter County Animal Shelter and meet her or call 475-9771 for more information.

Shelter hours are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday by appointment.

Fire claims life of Grayson city employee

A Saturday morning apartment fire claimed the life of a Grayson city employee. (Photo submitted by Brandy Felty Seagraves)

By Jeremy D. Wells
Carter County Times

A Saturday morning structure fire, at an apartment building on the corner of Second Street and Robert & Mary, has claimed the life of a Grayson city employee.

Carter County coroner William Waddell confirmed that Timothy Herron, an employee with the Grayson street department, perished in the fire. His body has been sent to the medical examiner’s office in Frankfort to determine exact cause of death, Waddell said.

City employees and community members, including Grayson Mayor George Steele, took to social media over the weekend to remember Herron and offer their support and condolences to his family.

“Our city experienced a tragic fire today,” Steele wrote. “Several families are displaced and need the help of our community.”

Steele remembered Herron as a valued city employee.

“Timmy has a pleasant disposition and a big personality. He will be missed by all of us. Our hearts go out to his wife and family,” he wrote.

“As we approach bedtime tonight, whisper a prayer for the Herron family and the first responders who worked this tragedy,” he added.

Steele also thanks the community for “being good neighbors and helping each other in times like this.”

“I am thankful for our small town and our people,” he said.

Steele also praised the first responders on the scene who, “performed their duties capably and with extreme dedication.”

Senator Robin Webb, who also employed Herron to work for her family, shared her memories of Herron on social media as well.

“He loved his family and worked hard at everything he took on,” Webb wrote. “From his day job, to his side jobs, he was dependable and honest… and I will miss his messages and him.”

Like Steele, Webb asked the Grayson community to, “hold his family in your heart and prayers,” along with the other families displaced by the fire, and praised the first responders and community members who reached out to help.

“I think he would be proud of his city’s response,” she said.  

George Sparks, with Sparks Funeral Home in Grayson, is handling arrangements for the Herron family.

A fund has been established for the family by the City of Grayson, and began accepting donations on Tuesday. Those who wish to contribute may do so at the Grayson City Building.

Individuals with the Grayson Fire Department were not available for response at press time, due to inclement winter weather that kept them busy serving the community.

Contact the writer at editor@cartercountytimes.com

Olive Hill man arrested in shooting

Delmas Harris Jr. is currently housed in the Carter County Jail for a shooting incident in Olive Hill. (Submitted photo)

By Jeremy D. Wells
Carter County Times

The Kentucky State Police are investigating an alleged shooting incident last week that left two Olive Hill residents, an adult and a child, with minor injuries.

A report from the KSP notes that last Friday afternoon, January 14, Delmas Harris Jr., 25, of Olive Hill, allegedly entered a residence on KY 955 and began firing after brandishing a weapon at the victims. The adult was reportedly struck in the hand and shoulder, while the child was struck and sustained injuries to their left leg.
After getting away and remaining hidden until Harris had left the area, the victims told KSP, they were able to walk to a safe location to seek treatment and contact police.

Police received the call at approximately 4:30 p.m. after the two victims were transported to the Olive Hill Urgent Care for treatment.

Harris was arrested by officers with Kentucky State Police Post 14 later that day, without incident, and booked in the Carter County Jail on a charge of first degree assault.

Harris remains housed in the Carter County Jail while the case remains under investigation by Detective Lawson with the KSP.

Contact the writer at editor@cartercountytimes.com

Late to the Game(s): Mothman in the Windy City?

By Jeremy D. Wells
Carter County Times

The year 2017 marked the 50th anniversary of the Silver Bridge collapse in Point Pleasant, West Virginia – an event that is largely seen as the culmination of a year of strange events centering around sightings of UFOs, poltergeist type activity, and something that locals called “the bird,” but that media would dub the Mothman.

It was also the year Small Town Monsters released their documentary film The Mothman of Point Pleasant, and the year that a new batch of sightings described as Mothman-like began coming in from the Chicago area.

It was an amazing coincidence, one that led some in the fields of UFOlogy, Cryptozoology, and Forteana to wonder if the Chicago sightings weren’t a bit of guerilla marketing undertaken by producer Seth Breedlove and the Small Town Monster’s crew. It was a charge that Breedlove denied, and the community soon dismissed.
But the sightings continued, coming in not just from Chicago, but the surrounding suburbs and across the region, leading to a new moniker. This wasn’t just the Chicago Mothman anymore. This was the Lake Michigan Mothman, the name that graces one of STM’s latest releases in their On the Trail of series, On the Trail of The Lake Michigan Mothman.

First things first, ignore the negative review on Amazon and other streaming services. These appear to be from folks who aren’t familiar with the On the Trail of format – or that this film was originally part of a stretch goal for Kickstarter backers. They also ignore the fact that this documentary isn’t about an event that’s already cemented in folklore, the way most of the other STM offerings have been. Rather, this is a film about the developing folklore of an ongoing phenomenon. As such, it approaches it from a different angle. Breedlove and crew do interview witnesses to the phenomenon, despite the erroneous claims of some reviewers. But this film is as much about the differences of a paranormal investigation in the internet age, spread over a large area, versus an investigation in a specific and more insular locale where locals were more familiar with – and trusting of – one another.

If there is more anonymity in the reports of the Lake Michigan Mothman than there was in the Point Pleasant sightings, that says as much about the state of internet culture as it does about the validity of the reports.

But Breedlove and crew don’t ignore the elephant in the room that is the anonymous report. They tackle that issue head on, acknowledging both the desire for and the problems with anonymity while also finding witnesses who are willing to go on camera to share their stories.

While these accounts are far from conclusive evidence, the willingness of at least some witnesses to attach their names and images to their stories does lend some weight to their claims.

But the earnestness of the witnesses raises another interesting question; if these witnesses truly believe they saw something, what did they see?

The easy answer, like with the original sighting, is a bird of some sort. Both Point Pleasant and the Lake Michigan area are home to abundant waterfrontage and wetlands. This led some folks to initially identify the original sighting as a misidentified sandhill crane. The crane raises its head again in explanations for the Lake Michigan sighting, as do great blue herons and other large waterfowl. The fact that West Virginia locals originally referred to the creature as “the bird” leads some credence to this supposition.

But unlike the original sightings which became conflated with the Silver Bridge tragedy – catapulting the Mothman into the role of omen as it was reported in other locales around the globe – there has been no grand tragedy in the Lake Michigan area to wrap up these sightings.

Maybe that’s because the bridge collapse, while an integral part of the high strangeness experienced by researcher, and author of The Mothman Prophecies, John Keel wasn’t really the end of Mothman sightings in the area. Rather, as locals note, it was a somber and tragic event that refocused the priorities of journalists and community members alike. It wasn’t that “the bird” necessarily went away, it was that the public lost their appetite for such fare in the wake of the bridge collapse.

Taken in this light, folklorist Eleanor Hasken-Wagner explains in the film, it not only makes sense that Mothman sightings have continued within, and spread outside of, the Chicago area without that big omen context, it makes sense.
First Mothman stories migrated to other areas of tragedy, then they just migrated as people – seeing something they couldn’t explain – sought a framework to fit it into and seized upon the image of the Mothman.
It also explains how the Chicago sightings, while lacking in the same kind of high strangeness reported in the 1967 sightings, can still carry personal significance for witnesses like John, who shared his random roadside encounter with other motorists who pulled over to take in the sight. Motorist whom, he hints, may have saved his life with their kind words and a shared experience.

Maybe most of the Lake Michigan sightings, and maybe even some of the Point Pleasant sightings, were instances of mistaken identification of known animals. Breedlove’s own response to capturing a large bird while shooting b-roll footage stands as testament to how easy that can be. But that doesn’t mean they don’t carry personal significance for the witness.
And, ultimately, that is what folklore is about – allowing an individual to take a familiar story frame and share their own and others’ experiences through that lens.
While the focus might not be what those looking for a spooky story are seeking, as a snapshot of developing folklore, Breedlove and crew have delivered spectacularly.

On the Trail of the Lake Michigan Mothman is available for purchase or rent on your favorite streaming platforms now.   

Contact the writer at editor@cartercountytimes.com

Indictment issued for theft

Lisa Greene (AKA Lisa Stanely, AKA Lisa Maston) is charged with theft by unlawful taking. (Submitted photo)

The Grand Jury of the Carter Circuit Court returned only one indictment on December 17, 2021.

The jury charged Lisa Greene, AKA Lisa Stanley, AKA Lisa Maston, of Parkersburg, West Virginia, with theft by unlawful taking or disposition, in an amount more than $10,000 but less than $1,000,000 from her employer, Derrick Willis. The indictment states that between March 31, 2016, and December 11, 2020, Greene took “movable property (money greater than $10,000) from Derrick Willis, with intent to deprive Willis of said money.”

The Carter County Times reached out to Willis, who confirmed that Greene was charged with stealing money from the office of his law practice in Grayson.

An indictment is not a determination of guilt or innocence. It is simply a charge that an offense has been committed and indicates that a case is pending on the charges listed. All defendants have the presumption of innocence until found guilty in a court of law. 
Though it is a part of the public record, the Carter County Times does not make a habit of printing the names of minor children or the victims of alleged crimes, except under exceptional circumstances.

Weekly arrests report: 1/19/22

Handcuffs and wooden gavel. Crime and violence concept.

The following individuals were arrested and booked into the Carter County Detention Center over the past week. This list includes local arrests only. It does not include federal inmates being housed at or transported through the detention center.

  • Lancer Holbrook, 51, of Olive Hill, arrested by Elliott County Sheriff, on charges of flagrant non-support, and two counts of failure to appear, arrested and booked January 10.
  • Jonathan Crum, 26, of Grayson, self-surrender, charges unavailable, arrested and booked January 10.
  • John Prichard, 44, of Grayson, arrested by Kentucky State Police, for failure to appear, arrested and booked January 11.
  • Robert Affolter, 58, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, for failure to appear, arrested and booked January 11.
  • Donna Weiler, 42, of Grayson, arrested by Grayson PD, on charges of abuse of a corpse, first degree possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), and theft by unlawful taking or disposition more than $1,000 but less than $10,000, arrested and booked January 11.
  • Nathan Henderson, 35, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, for failure to appear, arrested and booked January 11.  
  • Frederick Plummer, 62, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, for failure to appear, arrested and booked January 11.
  • Glen Lett, 41, of Grayson, arrested by Kentucky State Police, for failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, arrested and booked January 12.
  • Michael Cook, 34, of Olive Hill, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, for failure to appear, arrested and booked January 12.
  • Caleb Skaggs, 21, of Grayson, self-surrender, charges unavailable, arrested and booked January 12.
  • Whittney Butler, 30, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, for failure to appear, arrested and booked January 13.
  • Charles Henderson, 36, of Paducah, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on charges of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance with aggravating circumstances, failure to maintain required insurance, no registration receipt, no registration plates, failure to notify department of transportation of address change, failure to wear seat belts, reckless driving, failure to or improper signal, and operating on a suspended or revoked operator’s license, arrested and booked January 13.
  • Brandon Greene, 31, of Grayson, arrested by Elliott County Sheriff, on a parole violation for technical violation, arrested and booked January 14.
  • Miranda Sammons, 37, of Grayson, self-surrender, weekender, arrested and booked January 14.
  • Delmas Harris Jr., 25, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on a charge of first degree assault, arrested and booked January 14.
  • Michael Carter, 24, of Cannonsburg, arrested by Grayson PD, serving a warrant for parole violation, arrested and booked January 15.
  • Eric Justice, 40, of Grayson, arrested by Grayson PD, serving a warrant for parole violation, arrested and booked January 15.
  • Elijah Littleton, 30, of Olive Hill, arrested by Olive Hill PD, on charges of first degree possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), and non-payment of court costs, fees, or fines, arrested and booked January 15.
  • Kari McGuire, 36, of Vanceburg, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, serving two bench warrants for court, arrested and booked January 15.
  • Brandi Dailey, 32, of Olive Hill, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on charges of possession of drug paraphernalia, first degree trafficking in a controlled substance (methamphetamine), tampering with physical evidence, second degree possession of a controlled substance (drug unspecified), and failure to appear, arrested and booked January 15.
  • Jesse Smith, 25, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on a charge of violation of a Kentucky Emergency Protective Order/Domestic Violence Order, arrested and booked January 15.
  • Timothy Bradley, 29, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, for failure to appear, arrested and booked January 15.

All of the charges listed are arrest charges only, and do not indicate an indictment or a conviction for the charges in question. All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Information is compiled from publicly available sources, but may not be comprehensive. Individuals who are released or post bail shortly after arrest may not be listed.    

After 31 years of keeping the faith, Bengals fans are happy at last

selective focus close up photo of brown wilson pigskin football on green grass
Photo by Jean-Daniel Francoeur on Pexels.com
By: Keith Kappes
Columnist
Carter County Times

I saw the Cincinnati Bengals play their first game in old Nippert Stadium in 1968 and I’ve been a devoted fan since that day, much like my undying affection for the Cincinnati Reds.

Yes, I have whined and complained for years that the Bengals and Reds seem to let me down each season but I never gave up on the “wait till next year” hope of better results.

For example, former Bengals Coach Marvin Lewis took squads to the NFL playoffs on eight occasions but could never get past the first round. That continuing disappointment finally led to his departure.

There is a strange tradition in the National Football League that dictates you have to get really bad before you can get really better. By having the worst record, you get the first pick in the player draft the following season.

That’s exactly what happened to the Bengals in 2019 and they wisely selected quarterback Joe Burrow, the Heisman Trophy winner who led LSU to the national college football championship, in the 2020 NFL draft.

Burrow, who grew up in Athens in southeastern Ohio, was injured his first year and missed half the season. But this year was a game changer for Burrow and his teammates, including Ja’Marr Chase, his favorite receiver at LSU, who joined him on the Bengals and has caught 13 touchdown passes so far this year.

The Bengals finished at the top of the AFC’s North Division and just broke the 31-year jinx of no playoff wins by defeating the Las Vegas Raiders, 26-19. I don’t know who they play next but I feel good about their chances.

Perhaps the best indicator of the unending loyalty of Bengals fans is the fact that the game drew the largest Paul Brown Stadium crowd since it opened in 2002. And I know that some tickets sold for as much as $600 each.

Sidelined by a troublesome knee, I couldn’t go to that playoff game but I was well represented by my four sons who played high school football. Their seats were three rows from the field but they stood and cheered for the entire game.

Hopefully, long gone are the days of frustration when radio personalities used to call for a public meeting downtown to talk about bringing professional football to Cincinnati.

Go Bengals!

Health Matters with Fresh Start Health: Out with the old, in with the new – welcome to 2022!

woman stretching on ground
Photo by Jonathan Borba on Pexels.com
By: Vanessa Flannery, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Fresh Start Health, Grayson

This is typically the time of year where you reflect on the past year and set your expectations for the new year ahead. For some of you, that may be focusing on being more active and eating a balanced diet. For others, maybe it’s finally scheduling those preventive screenings you put off the previous year and allowing yourself to rest more. Either way, we encourage you to consider your wellbeing and set goals to strive for a healthier you in 2022.

While roughly 40% of Americans make New Year’s resolutions, only 20% succeed at their resolutions. So, let’s work to set goals that are attainable. Below are 6 tips that can help you achieve your healthiest self. All you have to do is put in a little effort, time, and stay consistent.

Helping you reach your healthiest, happiest self for 2022 with these 6 tips.

Tip #1: Schedule Your Annual Physical: An annual physical is one of the best ways you can stay fit for your current and future self. It’s an important key to living a long, healthy life. No matter your age or stage of life, physical exams are essential to your ongoing health. But what is a physical exam you ask? There’s no definitive answer here since an annual physical is unique to every patient; but here’s how it works: depending on your risk factors, age, lifestyle, and family history — your healthcare provider may order a wide variety of blood tests and other screenings during your physical exam. Based on your test results, your healthcare provider may make necessary recommendations for additional testing or any suggested lifestyle changes. While some people’s annual physicals are just blood work, others may be blood work and testing more severe conditions, like heart disease or cancer. It all depends on the patient’s current health status and their family history.

Tip #2: Get Some Quality Sleep: Establishing a regular sleeping pattern is crucial for your well-being. This includes going to bed at roughly the same time every night and waking up around the same time every morning. Now, it doesn’t have to be so rigid, but try your best to stay within a 30-minute window each night and morning. You may even consider turning off all electronic devices an hour before bedtime. Ever wonder why you can’t fall fast asleep after staring at your phone right before bed? Studies show that the light screens radiate actually decreases melatonin production, therefore causing disruptions to your sleep throughout the night.

Tip #3: Schedule Your Exercises: Fitting in a workout during your busy day may seem like a serious challenge. One of the biggest problems experts see when it comes to fitness is a lack of schedule and consistency. The problem itself is usually narrowed down to this — “finding” the time versus “making” the time. So, what if you looked at exercise differently? What if you scheduled it into your days and weeks, just like you would a meeting at work? “Finding” the time to workout implies that it’s not a high priority, whereas “making” the time sets a boundary for you and others that the time allotted for a scheduled workout cannot be missed. 

Tip #4: Eat Veggies More Often: Whether you’re trying to lose a few pounds or just improve your overall health, vegetables are a key source of nutrients necessary for your success. Fiber-rich veggies are especially important, as they are critical for a healthy heart and strong veins. You may even want to throw in some citrus fruits high in vitamin C; like oranges, grapefruit, or clementines. While vitamin C-rich foods help promote collagen production, they also prevent wrinkles and dry skin. Who knew an orange a day kept wrinkles away?

Tip #5: Drink More Water: It’s recommended that women consume 11.5 cups (93 ounces), and men consume 15.5 cups (125 ounces) of water each day. Keep in mind that most people typically consume 20% of their daily fluid intake from food. The rest should be from drinking water.  Well, did you know that it’s especially important to drink more water when you’re running on less sleep (specifically 6 hours of sleep or less)? The less sleep you get, the more dehydrated you are after a night of disrupted sleep. This is because the hormone (Antidiuretic) that regulates your body’s waters conservation is released in later stages of sleep. So, make sure you’re getting adequate water intake each day for your body. 

Tip #6: Prevent Work Burnout: While some may say it’s important to find work-life balance, you may consider a different approach — finding work-life harmony. It’s important to be connected to and care about the work you’re doing, as well as those you are working with. When you’re at work, be fully present and leave work at work. Your family deserves the rest of your time. Burnout also comes a lot faster when you’re spending 4 hours a day at a job that empties your tank than working 10 hours a day at a job filling your tank. Some other ways to prevent work burnout are taking breaks throughout the day, limiting your number of early mornings or late evenings, and completely unplugging while taking time off for personal days or vacations.

Kickstart 2022 by focusing on your goals and improving your overall wellbeing. You can start by scheduling your physical exam today! There’s no better time to start than now and know that Fresh Start Health Center is here to keep you and your loved ones healthy and happy through dedicated patient-centered care.

Extension Notes: Growing microgreens is a great indoor winter project

shallow focus of sprout
Photo by Gelgas Airlangga on Pexels.com
By: Rebecca Konopka
Carter County Extension Agent

Tiny, edible greens grown from the seeds of vegetables and herbs are called microgreens.  You can grow microgreens indoors over the winter when gardening outdoors isn’t an option.

Microgreen seeds must be sown very thickly in shallow pans with potting soil and are a great indoor winter project to do with children. Microgreens will grow really fast and need no fertilizing, as all their needed nutrients come from the seeds.  In 12 to 14 days, on average, you will have a finished product that is flavorful and packed with nutrients.

Microgreens obviously are grown a little bit differently than normal herbs and vegetables.  Microgreen seeds should be labeled for use as microgreens only to ensure there is no coating on the seeds that may contaminate the growing young plant. There are about 50 herb and vegetable seeds you can grow for microgreens, such as broccoli, beets and some mustards.  Pre-soaked seeds can produce a finished product in about seven days, but 12 to 14 days is more typical. You can grow some of the larger seeds, like mung beans and sunflowers, as microgreens. Larger seeds may take 21 days to mature. 

Microgreens average 4 to 5 inches tall when fully grown and can be used fresh in salads, wraps or garnishes.  Because microgreens are used fresh and grow close to the soil, you want to sow the seeds in new, clean potting soil in shallow containers.  Disposable aluminum pans make perfect containers with 1 to 2 inches of potting soil. Place the pans inside near a sunny window or use grow lights.

Contact the Carter County office of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service for information about growing microgreens.  Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expressions, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.

Lon Scott “Lonnie” Patton

Lon Scott “Lonnie” Patton, 68, of Ashland, KY, entered into rest Wednesday morning, January 12, 2022, at Kingsbrook Life Care Center in Ashland, KY.  He was born in Ashland, KY, on April 19, 1953 to the late Frank Hubert Patton and Betty Lorraine Scott Patton.

Lonnie was a member of Olive Hill Masonic Lodge #629. He enjoyed target shooting and collecting guns.  He had a passion for antique vehicles, including his 1956 Chevrolet Cameo.   

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Lon Edward Patton and Lulu King Patton; his maternal grandparents, Hazel Bauers Scott and Clarence Scott; and his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Dannie Sue and Robert V. Cox.

Lonnie is survived by his wife, Dolores Anne Cox Patton; and one son, Lance Erik  Patton. In addition to these, he leaves behind his current canine companion, Harlow, as well as a host of family and friends who will greatly miss him.

 Masonic rites will be conducted at 2:00 PM, Sunday, January 16, 2022 at Duvall & Moore Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Burial will follow at the Olive Hill Memorial Park.

Friends may visit from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, Sunday, January 16, 2022, at the Duvall & Moore Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 149 Whitt St., Olive Hill, KY 41164.

Due to the current community rise of Covid-19, we request that everyone wear a mask and practice social distancing.Online condolences may be sent to www.duvallandmoore.com

Oma Opal Blevins Owens

Mrs. Oma Opal Blevins Owens, age 91, of Olive Hill, Kentucky, passed away Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at King’s Daughters Medical Center in Ashland, Kentucky.

She was born Thursday, October 30, 1930 to the late Oscar Blevins and Vergie Stapleton Blevins.

Oma was of the Baptist faith and enjoyed sewing, drinking coffee and spending time with family and friends, especially little children.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by two daughters, Evelyn Mauk and Holly Hamm Green, one son Terry Hall. Six brothers, Hansford Blevins, Chester Blevins, Willard Blevins, Lloyd Blevins, Arthur Blevins and Elmer Blevins. Three sisters, Erma Mosier, Earlene Roe and Ruby Holbrook.

She is survived by two sons, Luster Hall of Shiloh, Ohio and James Hall of Olive Hill, Kentucky, two daughters Lois Dean, Mansfield, Ohio and Marta Mosier of Bellville, Ohio. Seventeen grandchildren and several great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren and a host of other family members and friends who will sadly mourn her passing.

Funeral services will be held 1 p.m., Saturday, January 15, 2022 at Globe Funeral Chapel, 17277 US Hwy. 60 West, Olive Hill, Kentucky with Brother Bobby Day officiating. Burial will follow in the Bledsoe Cemetery on Rattlesnake Ridge in Olive Hill, Kentucky.

Friends may visit 12 noon until 1 p.m. at Globe Funeral Chapel in Olive Hill, Kentucky.

Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Globe Funeral Chapel in Olive Hill, Kentucky is caring for all arrangements for Mrs. Oma Opal Blevins Owens.

Carol Lyn Williams

Mr. Carol Lyn Williams, age 88, of Olive Hill, Kentucky, passed away Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at Carter Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Grayson, Kentucky.

He was born Friday, May 19, 1933 in Carter County, Kentucky to the late Merle Williams and Edna IngrahanWilliams Lemmings.

Carol was of the Christian faith and enjoyed taking country rides, fishing, reading, and collecting books.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by one infant sister and one grandchild, Hayden McKenzie,

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Wanda Lee Wilson Williams, one son, Jerry (Donna) Williams of Winchester, Kentucky and one grandchild, Shawn (Alisha) McKenzie of North Middletown, Kentucky, three great-grandchildren, Katie McKenzie, Abby McKenzie and Kree McKenzie and a host of other family members and friends who will sadly mourn his passing.

Funeral services will be held 3 p.m., Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at Globe Funeral Chapel, 17277 US Hwy. 60 West, Olive Hill, Kentucky with Brother David Rayburn officiating. Burial will follow at the Garvin Ridge Cemetery in Olive Hill, Kentucky.

Friends may visit after 2 p.m., Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at Globe Funeral Chapel in Olive Hill, Kentucky.

Pallbearers will be John Goodan, Mitchell McKenzie, Wayne Mitchell, Caleb Mitchell and Danny Lee Kiser. Chris Binion will serve as honorary pallbearer.

Globe Funeral Chapel in Olive Hill, Kentucky is caring for all arrangements for Mr. Carol Lyn Williams.

Debra Vanhoose

low angle photography gray sky
Photo by Adam Kontor on Pexels.com

Ms. Debra Vanhoose, age 62, of Staffordsville, Kentucky, passed away January 11, 2022 at her residence.

She was born June 14, 1959 in Grayson, Kentucky to the late James and Dorothy Hale Dinkens.

She is survived by two brothers, Timmy (Donita) Dinkens and Anthony Dinkens both of Flatwoods, Kentucky. One sister, Holly (Richard) Crider of Staffordsville, Kentucky.

At Debra’s request there will be no visitation or funeral.

Grayson Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Grayson, Kentucky is caring for all arrangements for Ms. Debra Vanhoose.

Timothy Van Kitchen

Mr. Timothy Van Kitchen, age 60, of Shelbyville, Tennessee, passed away Monday, January 10, 2022 at King’s Daughters Medical Center in Ashland, Kentucky.

Timothy was born January 22, 1961 in Ashland, Kentucky to the late Van (June) and Myrtle Faye Dickerson Kitchen.

He was a member of Trinity Baptist Church in Shelbyville, Tennessee. Timmy loved his nieces and nephews as his own and they adored their uncle T.T. In Timmy’s spare time he loved fishing with his wonderful nieces and nephews and his good friends and he also loved his two cats Nacho and Gizmo. He loved taking care of his precious mother.

In addition to his parents, Timothy is preceded in death by one brother Gregory Kitchen and one sister Tamara Kay Gillum.

He is survived by two sisters Teresa Joy (Barry) Tigue of Olive Hill, Kentucky and Tarice (Mike) Steele of Grayson, Kentucky, nieces and nephews, Stephanie (Brandon) Kingman, David Ray Gilliam, Troy Fannin, Ashton Faith Sloas, Anthony Trace Sloas, Haley Vann (Kevin) Hignite, Ashley Steele, Nathan Steele and Jacob Steele.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m., Saturday, January 15, 2022 at Grayson Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 49 McCoy Road, Grayson, Kentucky with Brother Steven Keyes officiating. Burial will follow in the East Carter Memory Gardens in Grayson, Kentucky.

Friends may visit 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, January 14, 2022 at the Grayson Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Grayson, Kentucky.

Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

Grayson Funeral Home and Cremation Services is caring for all arrangements for Mr. Timothy Van Kitchen.

Snow on the road

landscape photography of snow pathway between trees during winter
Photo by Simon Berger on Pexels.com

By Jeremy D. Wells
Carter County Times

I got caught foul this week. I thought I had time for an oil change I had scheduled on Thursday morning in Mt. Sterling before the snow hit. But I was wrong. The dealership took about twice as long as anticipated to change the oil, and the snow started two hours earlier than the meteorologists predicted.

So, by the time I left the dealership, the snow was already coming down steadily. Thankfully Porter Tires had just hooked me up with a new set of all-weather tires, so – keeping it slow and steady – I did fine on 64, though not everyone was so lucky. I passed several cars who had pulled off, or slid off, onto the shoulder or into the median. I passed one car that had failed to keep up their momentum, and as a result came to a dead stop about a quarter of the way up a small hill. A state police officer was parked in the road behind them, trying to help push the car to the shoulder. Because of the warning from his flashing lights I had plenty of time to get over without sacrificing any of my momentum and ending up in the same situation.

Still, by the time I made it to Morehead, I was skeptical of my ability to make it on home. After mulling it over a bit I was ready to risk it, but when I got talked to my partner on the telephone she didn’t recommend our normal route home. All the state routes were still in pretty rough shape, and the storm was just getting started. So, after talking it over, and considering alternate routes, we decided to play it safe, and I rented a hotel room in Morehead.

I’m not going to dwell on what a horrible experience that was (and it is a horrific tale in its own right).

Instead, I’m going to talk about how much I missed my family for the two days I ended up being away.

Once I left the hotel the next morning, I quickly realized the roads were still pretty rough. I was able to make it to my father-in-law’s house, along a state route that runs parallel to our road. But we live off of a county road, and those still hadn’t been touched.

So, after a supper of fried bologna and vegetable soup I turned in for my second night away from my family.
What you need to realize is, in the nearly three years since my son was born, I haven’t spent more than a single day away from him. I wasn’t prepared at all for how much I’d miss him.

He still sleeps with me and his mother, and though I often wish he’d move into his own bed and give us back some space, I missed falling asleep with his little arm draped over my chest. I missed waking up to his laughter and cuddles. I missed watching him play. I missed his sweet “thank you” after I fill his milk cup for him. I missed him, and his mommy. 

So, though rising temperatures still hadn’t melted all the snow from our road or driveway, on Saturday morning I decided I was going to risk the drive home. It was slow, and laborious, and I took the longer – but flatter – route into our holler instead of attempting either of the routes that go over large hills. But I made it home safely. And my boy has been practically attached to my hip ever since.
I think he maybe missed his daddy a little bit, too.

Jeremy D. Wells can be reached at editor@cartercountytimes.com

Olive Hill and Grayson compete in “Battle of the Badges” blood drive


On November 22, the Olive Hill and Grayson Police Departments participated in the first annual “ Battle of the Badges” blood drive. The Olive Hill Police Department won the 1 round of the friendly competition, by collecting 21 units of blood. Grayson Police Department collected 14 units of blood. The total units of blood could help save 105 lives. Just as East and West Carter High School pass the barrel back and forth to the winner, we will pass the blood drop to the winner each year. Until the next time Olive Hill Police will maintain the blood drop. (submitted photos)

Public Notice: Request for Bids

 Fiscal court plans demolition of old jail

By Jeremy D. Wells
Carter County Times

 Carter County fiscal court took the next steps towards demolition of the old jail building in their regular meeting on Monday night, accepting an 86-page report from Howerton Engineering detailing their recommendations for safely bringing the building down. 

While it isn’t feasible to save and refurbish the building, which is in a state of advanced disrepair, the county does plan to salvage the stone and other historical elements from the building. But it isn’t the salvaging of historical items that offers the biggest challenge to the county, it’s how to safely bring the building down in such a tight space, without damaging the attached courthouse or surrounding buildings. 

Luckily for the county, Howerton has recommendations for doing just that. 

“There’s stuff in there I never considered,” said Judge Executive Mike Malone, explaining that because of the materials used in the building and the tight workspace, the process will be very involved for whoever is awarded the demolition contract.

While the county could have begun soliciting bids for the demolition as soon as January 19 if they’d approved a plan on Monday evening, because of the length of the report from the engineering firm, Malone suggested revisiting the issue in a special session in two weeks. This, he said, would give the magistrates time to look over the report and familiarize themselves with the recommendations. 

While there was agreement among magistrates that something needs to be done with the building, they still lamented the loss of the historic structure, and discussed ways to preserve as many of the historic elements as possible. 

For instance, some of the old jail bars may be reutilized in the road department, for securing equipment. While there was some discussion of selling any unused bars and doors for scrap metal, magistrate Donnie Oppenheimer expressed some concern with that idea. 

“It would be a shame to destroy them, because of their historical value,” Oppenheimer said. 

Malone responded that scrapping the metal bars from the old jail cells was simply one possibility, but not something the county would be required to do.

He said the bars could be stored, along with the stone, at the county garage. 

That is what they already plan to do with the stone from the building. Malone explained that it will be stored at the county garage until they determine how much of the material the county wants to use, and what projects they want to use it on. Then they could sell off any surplus material. 

Stone saved for county usage could be used to construct the façade of the new E911 dispatch office, as a bank reinforcement for elevating and leveling land for extra parking space, or as material for a base or display area for the refurbished doughboy once repairs to the statue are complete, Malone said.

In other action the court accepted the sheriff’s quarterly and annual reports from Sheriff Jeff May, which indicate that a little over $39,000 will be returned to the county from taxes collected by the sheriff’s office. 

The court also moved to accept the treasurer’s report, to approve claims and transfers, and to hear department reports. 

The court also discussed developing a policy for unclaimed remains. Though it hasn’t been a pressing issue for the county in recent years, they were recently informed that the county was responsible for any unclaimed remains outside the county when a county resident passed away in a hospital and next of kin could not be located, or were unwilling or unable to take possession of the body. 

This news came as the county was experiencing a sudden uptick in unclaimed remains – the first from an elderly man who was transported from a local nursing home to the UK Medical Center, where he passed away. 

Then, while working that issue, Malone said, the county got notice that a second body had gone unclaimed by family – this time in Frankfort.

“We hadn’t had one in seven years,” explained County Attorney Brian Bayes. “Then we had two (back-to-back).” 

Malone said while the county may not have any more remains they need to take responsibility for right away, it would pay to be prepared should the situation arise again. 

Malone said one thing he thought any policy should include is a stipulation requiring all cremated remains by interred at a “perpetual care cemetery.” 

That, he said, would make it easier to guarantee remains were preserved if family showed up in the future to claim them. It would also make it easier to locate where they were buried, as perpetual care cemeteries record the exact locations of each burial. 

More importantly, though, magistrate Morris Shearer added, it “provides a little more dignity” for the deceased. 

Council voted four to zero to solicit bids for the cremation and disposal of unclaimed remains – with Malone and Huddle abstaining. 

During the public comment period the county heard once again from a former jail employee who is seeking his share of a bonus awarded for first responders who worked during the pandemic. They had previously chosen to award him the funds for the time he spent working during the public health emergency. That ordinance, however, mistakenly granted the employee the bonus because he retired. In actuality, though, he had resigned. 

The problem with that, the county attorney explained, was that it would set a precedent that might open the door to claims from other employees who left during the pandemic. The court moved to revisit that issue in two weeks, during their special session. 

In other public comments, a resident along Avis Road, in Iron Hill, told the court he had called his magistrate and complained about the poor state of the road, but no action was ever taken. 

Another county resident, this one from Cattleman Lane, asked the county about progress made on bringing the end of his road into the county road system. 

The court promised to revisit both issues during their special meeting in two weeks and – if all conditions are met – to take Cattlemen Lane into the county road system. 

The court also heard a report on Vincent Road, and moved to begin the process of removing a portion of the road from the county system. 

Contact the writer at editor@cartercountytimes.com

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