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Sarah Hicks Adkins

Sarah Hicks Adkins, age 63, of Morehead, Kentucky, passed away Monday, August 11, 2025, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born Friday, August 18, 1961, in Carter County, Kentucky, a daughter to the late Alfred and Mary Shrum Hicks.

Sarah was a former nurse for Edgewood Nursing and Rehabilitation. She enjoyed watching Tic Tok Videos, home decorating, taking care of her dog, Chanel and spending time with her family.

Sarah is survived by one daughter, Rachel Adkins of Morehead, Kentucky; six brothers, David Hicks of Napoleon, Ohio, Robert Hicks of Richmond, Kentucky, Paul Hicks of Olive Hill, Kentucky, James Hicks of Lexington, Kentucky, John Hicks of Olive Hill, Kentucky, Thomas Hicks of Frankfort, Kentucky; three sisters, Mattie Burton of Morehead, Kentucky, Alfreda Hall of Richmond, Kentucky, Kristie Johnson of Ashland, Kentucky, along with many other family and friends who will sadly miss her.

Funeral services will be held 12 noon, Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Globe Funeral Chapel, 17277 West US Hwy 60, Olive Hill, Kentucky, with Brother Greg Guy officiating. Burial will follow in Hicks Family Cemetery, Olive Hill, Kentucky.

Friends may visit after 10:30 a.m., Saturday, August 16, 2025, until the service hour at Globe Funeral Chapel.

David Hicks, Robert Hicks, Paul Hicks, John Hicks, Thomas Hicks and John Burton will serve as pallbearers.

Globe Funeral Chapel in Olive Hill, Kentucky is honored to serve the family of Sarah Hicks Adkins.

Marvin Gary Stevens

Marvin Gary Stevens, age 77, of Olive Hill, Kentucky, passed away Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at UK-King’s Daughter Hospital in Ashland, Kentucky, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born August 12, 1947, in Boyd County, Kentucky, a son of the late Norman and Lois Ruley Stevens.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Helen Louise Walker Stevens; one son Jeremy Blake (Ceresa) Stevens of Olive Hill, Kentucky; one daughter, Erica Stevens (Jason) Brown of Knoxville, Tennessee. He was blessed to have three grandchildren. Connor Jayce Brown, Dylan Gareth Brown both of Knoxville, Tennessee, and Delaney Louise Stevens, of Olive Hill, Kentucky.

He graduated from Olive Hill High School, before eventually making his way to Eastern Kentucky State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice.

Gary spent 17 years in the Kentucky National Guard and the United States Army Reserve, attaining the rank of Sergeant First Class.

His first real job was at Armco Steel Corporation where he worked for eight years until he found his true calling, the Kentucky State Police.

Gary often said he believed he was born to be a Trooper and was very proud of that accomplishment. He retired from the KSP after 23 years of service as a Trooper, Senior Trooper, Polygraph Examiner, and Detective.

After retirement he spent three years as Administrator of the Carter County Emergency Ambulance Service

before moving on to the Administrative Office of the Courts as a Security Specialist where he spent the next eleven years.

Gary was a competitive shooter and enjoyed all aspects of the sport. He specialized in self defense shooting skills and long range shooting, out to 1000 yards. He served three terms on the Board of Directors of the United States Practical Shooting Association and co-founded the Ashland Gun Club Practical Shooting Division.

Gary won two national Championships as a Super Senior competitor, which as he said was not an easy task.

Gary was a member of the First Christian Church, where he made the decision to accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m., Friday, August 8, 2025, at First Christian Church in Olive Hill, Kentucky, with Brother Adam Foster and Brother David Gee officiating. Burial will follow in Olive Hill Memorial Park in Olive Hill, Kentucky.

Friends may visit from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday, August 7, 2025, and after 10 a.m., Friday, August 8, 2025, until the service hour at First Christian Church in Olive Hill.

Kentucky State Police will serve as pallbearers.

KSP Honors will be conducted at the graveside by KSP Honor Guard.

Dottie Lou Davis Burge

Dottie Lou Davis Burge, age 81, of Olive Hill, Kentucky, passed away Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at UK-St. Claire Medical Center in Morehead, Kentucky.

She was born Sunday, October 31, 1943, in Carter County, Kentucky, a daughter of the late Charlie and Thelma Barker Davis.

Dottie was a member of Garvin Ridge Wesleyan Church, homemaker, mother and grandmother.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years, Walter W.F. Burge; one brother, John Paul Davis; two sisters, Jean Buckler, Joyce Stapleton and very special friend, Gary Moore.

Dottie is survived by two sons, Jeffrey (Kathy) Burge of Grayson, Kentucky, Michael Burge of Olive Hill, Kentucky; one daughter, Angela (Kevin) Parsons of Richmond, Kentucky; 5 grandchildren, Megan, Austin, Jesse, McKayla, Matthew; one brother, Jim (Elaine) Davis of Nellysford, Virginia; two sisters, Gayle Parsons of Dayton, Ohio, Janet (Quentis) Stamper of Lucas, Ohio; sister-in-law, Vicki Davis along with several nieces and nephews, who will sadly miss her.

Funeral services will be held 2 p.m., Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Globe Funeral Chapel, 17277 West US Hwy 60, Olive Hill, Kentucky, with Brother Gary Henry and Brother JC Bond officiating. Burial will follow in Garvin Ridge Cemetery, Olive Hill, Kentucky.

Friends may visit after 12:30 p.m., Sunday, August 3, 2025, until the service hour at Globe Funeral Chapel.

Jeff Burge, Austin Burge, Matthew Burge, Mike Burge, Jesse Parson and Michael Stamper will serve as pallbearers.

Globe Funeral Chapel in Olive Hill, Kentucky is honored to serve the family of Dottie Lou Davis Burge.

Extension Notes: Summer Plant Care Tips for Healthier, Longer-lasting Blooms

close up photo of a person s hand using a spray hose
Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels.com
By: Rebecca Konopka
Carter County Extension Agent

By mid-summer, many summer annuals have already produced plenty of flowers, and some may be starting to set seed. Once this happens, plants shift their energy toward maturing seeds instead of producing more blooms. You can encourage fresh flowers by “deadheading,” or removing the faded blossoms. Snip off the spent blooms, give the plant a boost with a liquid fertilizer following the label instructions, and keep it well-watered. This helps redirect energy back into growth and flowering instead of seed production. 

Marigolds, zinnias, cosmos, verbena, geraniums and petunias all respond well to deadheading. That said, many modern hybrids of petunias, zinnias, and verbena are bred to keep blooming steadily without it. If your plant is vigorous, green and producing new flowers, you can skip the step. 

Container plants often get overgrown or tired-looking by mid-summer. A good trim can spark fresh growth, but sometimes the best option is to replace them entirely. Swapping in new plants can instantly brighten an entryway or patio and give your outdoor spaces a refreshed look. 

Regular watering is essential during the hottest months. Annual flowers and vegetable gardens often need water every few days. Deep watering every other day is better than a light sprinkle daily, as it encourages roots to grow deeper. If a good summer rain soaks the soil, you can safely skip your next watering. 

If plants lose their rich green color or their growth slows, they may need feeding. Applying a liquid fertilizer as directed on the label can bring noticeable results in just a few days. For best results, water the soil first — feeding dry plants will have little effect. 

Trees and shrubs usually require less attention in summer. Established woody plants are fairly drought-tolerant and can often go a week to 10 days without rain. If summer storms damage limbs, prune them back at any time. You can also remove spent flowers from shrubs now but save major pruning for late winter or early spring. 

For more information on plant care tips, contact your local Carter County Extension office for more information on watering your plants. 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.      

Upcoming Events:

  • The Olive Hill Farmer’s Market is located in the Save-a-Lot parking lot and is open on Mondays at 3:00 PM and on Wednesdays & Saturdays at 8:00 AM. The Grayson Farmer’s Market will be open on Saturdays at 9:00 AM and on Thursdays at 2:00 PM and is located in the shed behind the Extension Office.  
  • Hike & Learn – August 22nd @ 1:00 PM – Laurel Gorge Cultural Heritage Center
  • Little Sandy Beekeepers – September 2nd @ 6:30 PM – Topic: Honey Labels & Hive Product Marketing

Kentucky 4-H Teens Invited to Attend Regional Leadership Conference

four leaf clover pin on a jeans pocket
Photo by Beate Vogl on Pexels.com

Rebecca Hayes

Carter County Extension Office

Hundreds of young people from across the South will gather next month to sharpen their skills as leaders at the annual 4-H Southern Region Teen Leadership Conference (SRTLC). 

The event, set to take place on Sept. 18–21 at one of Tennessee’s premier 4-H camps, will bring together 4-H teens and adults to foster leadership, collaboration, and positive change through youth-adult partnerships. Kentucky 4-H youth who take part will have the rare opportunity to share ideas and experiences with teens from across the region, including delegations from Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and Tennessee, in a supportive, youth development-focused environment. 

Participants will engage in interactive workshops led by youth leaders and committee members, covering a wide range of leadership and life skills. The conference also features the Southern Showdown, a spirited series of team events including basketball and kickball competitions, talent showcases, and knowledge-based challenges that highlight the strengths of each state’s delegation.

In addition to leadership development, SRTLC emphasizes fun and cultural exchange through social activities such as a T-shirt swap, a parade of states, a state swap meet, and the popular “Taste of the South,” where each state shares a dish unique to its culture. These experiences help young people build lasting friendships and broaden their understanding of the region’s diversity.

Kentucky 4-H members are encouraged to take part in this exciting event to strengthen their leadership and communication skills, represent their state with pride, and experience the power of youth voice and action. 

For more information on this year’s Southern Region Teen Leadership Conference or to find out how to register for the event, contact the Carter County Extension office.

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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.    

The University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment news and communications team provides monthly Extension Exclusives in the categories of Horticulture, Agriculture and Natural Resources, 4-H and Family & Consumer Sciences. To see more exclusives, visit https://exclusives.ca.uky.edu. 

All of us old soldiers should be proud of service to God and country.

man standing on stage facing an american flag
Photo by Brett Sayles on Pexels.com
By: Keith Kappes
Columnist
Carter County Times

          (Reprinted by request from 2019)

          This week I put a new sticker on the rear windshield of my almost new car. It shows the U.S. Army logo over these words:

            “Soldier For Life”.

            To me, it says I will always be proud of my time in the uniform of my country and that I will forever be a loyal supporter of the Army and other military branches.

            I realize there are millions of veterans who gave much more than me. I never saw combat. I never fired a shot in anger. I briefly served overseas twice but not during wartime.

            My 22+ years of volunteer service included the Army, Army Reserve and Kentucky Army National Guard. As a Guardsman on state active duty, I responded to floods, blizzards, tornadoes, fires and other civil emergencies.

            I have never sought medical help, G.I. Bill benefits or other assistance from the VA because those resources should go only by those vets who can’t afford to pay.

            I am a proud member of Morehead’s Corbie Ellington Post 126 of the American Legion. The Legion’s motto is very meaningful to me, “Serving God and Country since 1919”.

            The American flag is displayed at my home on national holidays and other special occasions. What I know about flag etiquette I learned as a soldier. That is also true about my experience with firearms.

            My limited driving experience with big trucks and heavy equipment came from the Army. The Army also gave me the first opportunity to shave every day and shine my footwear.

            What little I know about feeding large numbers of people and cleaning up after them I learned while serving as an Army mess sergeant. That skill adapted well to family reunions, church outings and helping my wife raise eight kids.

            Yep, I’m proud as hell to be an old soldier.

            (Contact Keith at keithkappes@gmail.com).

Baseball and the Blue Goose

close up photography of four baseballs on green lawn grasses
Photo by Steshka Croes on Pexels.com
By: Charles Romans
Carter County Times

The City of Grayson Tourism Commission met in regular session last Tuesday, August 12, to discuss business including the sports park and Blue Goose building. New sports park manager, Bert Bayes, who had just recently completed his second week in that position, reported to the commission concerning recent events at the park.

“We had one event on the second and the third,” Bayes told the commission. “It was an adult softball tournament.”

Teams were men’s, women’s, and coed. Bayes said the crowd was not huge, so sales at the concession were somewhat down as opposed to other events. There were no events of the same type the previous week, Bayes said. But the splashpad was rented out three times during that time period.

“This coming weekend we will be having a baseball tournament,” he said. “I’m told that baseball this time of year does not draw the way it normally would. But we are excited for next weekend because we are expecting to have over 1,000 people at the park. There will be 39 teams coming and we will use all four fields plus the high school field for all three days starting on Friday.”

“That should have a huge turnout, and after that we have events scheduled every weekend through the end of October,” Bayes told the commission. “We have a full plate, and should have good crowds the rest of the fall.”

Commission member Deana Miller discussed with the commission the possibility of getting banners for the sports park that would list the hours of operation, etc. Miller said that she had been asked numerous times about the hours, with residents frequently asking about the splash pad in particular. Commission member Shadow Skaggs proposed an alternative in the form of more permanent signage that could be changed and updated as necessary.

The commission requested that Bayes look into potential options to improve public communication and bring it before the commission by their next regularly scheduled meeting. The director was also encouraged to bring potential capital projects to the commission so these could be planned accordingly.

Miller also told the commission that demolition of the Blue Goose Building had officially gone out to be bid.

“We had the asbestos survey done,” Miller told the commission. “They did find a little bit of asbestos in the caulk in the front window.”

“We will be having an open house from 9 to 11 on Tuesday,” she continued. “It’s not a mandatory meeting, and I’ll just have it open for two hours. And then next Friday (August 22) there will be an open bid at 2 pm.”

Miller said she was looking forward to receiving bids for demolition, and had shared the information with utilities director Gerald Haney so that he could in turn share the same with his list of contractors.

“We won’t be approving a bid on that Friday because we have to check and be sure the bids are responsive to our requirements. It will probably be the following Monday before we can contact the low bid contractor,” she told the commission.

“In the meantime, there was a lot of stuff left in the Blue Goose,” Miller said.

It is imperative, Miller told the commission, that these items be removed.

“Once we sign the contract, everything in that building belongs to the contractor. It becomes their property at that point,” she told the commission.

Miller said at that point no one would be able to go back into the building to retrieve any items left there.

Contact the writer at charles@cartercountytimes.com

Skaggs bound over to grand jury

Mickie Lee Skaggs (submitted photo)

By Jeremy D. Wells
Carter County Times

Mickie Lee Skaggs appeared before Judge Rupert Wilhoit last Wednesday (August 13) for a preliminary hearing on charges that included three counts of attempted murder. According to testimony provided by Carter County Sheriff’s Deputy Nate Lewis at that hearing, he was working on the evening of August 1 when a call came in from dispatch reporting shots fired in the area of Sumac Road.

Lewis, who was the first officer on the scene, said one of the witnesses on scene explained that there had been an altercation between Skaggs and his brother. After that fight, the witness reported, Skaggs retreated to his car and shot at his brother as he drove away – striking his automobile. The witness, who was standing on the porch with her three-year-old child when the shooting occurred, reported that she was only feet away from where the bullets struck the vehicle at that time.

Lewis then testified that Skaggs called police to turn himself in, offering to meet police at an unnamed gas station. Lewis said that while he was not on the scene when Skaggs turned himself in, he was advised that Skaggs was read his Miranda Rights. After being advised of his right to remain silent, Lewis testified that Skaggs proceeded to tell officers that he shot at his brother with intent.

Lewis testified that Skaggs would have shot at his brother from a short distance, as he was driving away.

The defense asked Lewis to describe how Skaggs looked when he showed up at the gas station to turn himself in. Lewis said that Skaggs had scratches to his face and his head. When asked if Skaggs was bleeding, Lewis replied, “lightly.”

While Lewis testified that he was not at the gas station when Skaggs gave his statement, he did collect the statement of the other witness – the girlfriend of Skaggs’ brother who was on the porch with their child at the time. She told Lewis that Skaggs had gotten into his car after the fight with his brother, and shot as he drove by, approximately 5 to 10 feet from his brother, as well as the witness and their child, who said they were standing in the doorway.

Defense asked Lewis if they had canvassed the area for any security camera footage, but Lewis advised there were no cameras and no footage available. Lewis also advised that he did find bullet holes in Mason Skaggs’ vehicle, approximately 10 feet from the porch where the witness and her child stood.

Mason Skaggs did not give police a statement about the altercation with his brother.

Judge Wilhoit found probable cause to bound the case over to the grand jury, and denied the defense’s request to release Skaggs on bond with an ankle monitor upon protest from county attorney Brian Bayes. Bayes noted that Skaggs had admitted to trying to kill his brother and that the county believed him to be a potential danger to society.

While the defense argued that Skaggs was acting in self-defense after being “assaulted by a convicted felon,” Judge Wilhoit overruled the request.

Skaggs remains incarcerated at the Carter County Detention Center as his case moves forward.

Contact the writer at editor@cartercountytimes.com

Pets of the Week

Submitted photo

This adorable passel of pups are all eight weeks old and includes five boys and three girls. These mixed breed cuties weigh between five and nine pounds and have a $100 adoption fee that includes rabies vaccination and being neutered or spayed. Stop by the Carter County Animal Shelter and meet them or call 475-9771 for more information.

Shelter hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday by appointment.

Joyful Noise: Beautiful feet

rain drops
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

By Pastor Naomi Mitchell

For Carter County Times

Every Sunday afternoon a pastor and his 11-year-old boy handed out gospel tracts. But one Sunday, the weather was terrible. It was cold, windy, and pouring rain. The boy bundled up in his coat and said, “Okay, Dad, I’m ready to go.”

His dad said, “Ready for what?”

“It’s time to pass out tracts, like we always do.”

“Son, it’s freezing and raining hard. I don’t think we should go out today.”

“But Dad, people are still going to hell, even if it’s raining.”

The father paused. He couldn’t argue with that. “Alright. You can go. Just be careful.”

“Thanks, Dad!” the boy headed out into the storm.

For two hours, he walked the streets in the rain, giving out tracts to anyone he could find. Soaked and shivering, he finally had just one tract left. The streets were now empty. He looked around, then walked towards the nearest house and rang the doorbell. No answer. He rang it again. Still nothing. He knocked. Waited. No one came. He turned to leave, but something in his heart told him to try one more time. He rang the bell again and knocked hard.

Finally, the door slowly opened. An elderly woman stood there looking tired and sad.

“What can I do for you, son?”

With a warm smile, the boy said, “Ma’am, I just want you to know – Jesus loves you. This is my last gospel tract. I came to give it to you.”

He handed her the little booklet.

“Thank you, son. And God bless you.”

He turned and walked back into the rain.

The next Sunday, in church, the pastor asked, “Would anyone like to share a testimony?”

From the back row, a woman stood up. No one in the church had ever seen her before. She began: “My husband passed away some time ago, and I have been completely alone. Last Sunday, I decided I couldn’t go on living. So, I took a rope and a chair. I tied the rope to a beam. I then stood on the chair. I was about to step off…but the doorbell rang. Once. Then again. Then again. It wouldn’t stop. Whoever it was, began knocking loud and hard. I thought, ‘Who could that be? No one ever visits me.’ I went downstairs and opened the door. And there stood a little boy soaked with rain.” He said, ‘Ma’am, Jesus loves you.’ Then he handed me this little booklet and walked away. I closed the door and read every word of that Gospel tract. Then I went back to put away the rope and chair. Today, I came here to receive Jesus as my Savior.”

There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

The Bible says, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news.” Someone somewhere is needing to hear some good news today. Will you be the one to bring the good news to a broken soul?

As a Jesus follower, my job is not to be the morality police, constantly checking up to see if others are behaving in a way that I deem “correct” or “righteous.” Instead, my job is to love others in ways that heal their broken heart and set them free from all the unkindness’s that hold them captive. We need to treat people like Jesus died for them! John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life.”

When you feel invisible, remember this: God sees every tear, every prayer, every step. You are fully known and deeply loved. Your tears have been heard. Each drop of pain has been collected and counted by your Heavenly Father. You have not gone unnoticed. Your cries have awoken the heart of God.

I pray for the hurt souls right now, Jesus. I pray in your mighty and matchless name that they find comfort in you, knowing that you will rescue them in this season. May all the tears they shed throughout this time of trials and attack from the enemy, be replaced with your love and victory. Amen!

God is always on time for those who need him. He will work through people in many unusual ways to reach the lost and hurting. Yes, reading this article is no accident. God loves you right now wherever you are! Your life matters to Him.

Amen! So be it! (Reprint from 5.14.25)

JOYFUL House of Prayer, 2519 Quicksand Road, (P.O. Box 856), Jackson, Kentucky 41339. Send Comments/Prayer Requests: Pastornaomi4god@gmail.com. FB: JoyfulHoprayer. Services: 10am Sunday and Joyful Kids Class at 10:30am, 6:30pm Thursdays. Radio Broadcast: WJSN 97.3 FM & WEKG 81.0 AM Sundays 1-2pm.

Possible federal education funding cuts threaten local student progress, community partnerships

woman writing on a notebook beside teacup and tablet computer
Photo by Tirachard Kumtanom on Pexels.com

by Edna Schack

Imagine a program where optometry students provide free eye exams to students. That’s happening at Olive Hill and Prichard Elementary Schools in Carter County with the help of the University of Pikeville. Sixty-two young students were identified as needing further vision assistance, and 43 received new glasses—improving learning access while giving optometry students hands-on clinical experience.

No imagination is needed – unless Congress cuts funding for that partnership and dozens of others that are yielding positive results across the state. Last month, a Congressional vote called a rescission clawed back federal money that had already been budgeted to various organizations across the country, including Kentucky Educational Television (KET). A recent interview with Office of Budget and Management Director Russell Vought indicated that another rescission – this one targeting schools – could occur in September. I urge Congressman Hal Rogers and the entire Kentucky Congressional delegation to preserve the existing vital funding for Kentucky Community Schools in the same way it fought to unfreeze summer school, after school and other critical school funding in July. The Kentucky Community Schools Initiative is achieving real results. But its funding, which includes more than $30 million directly to local school districts, could be in jeopardy.

In the 5th Congressional District alone, the Prichard Committee partners with Rowan, Rockcastle and Carter County schools with an investment of $4.5 million.

The initiative in Kentucky is fairly new, but community involvement in schools has bipartisan support from presidents and Congress that goes back decades. This public-private partnership in Kentucky, where businesses and organizations are working with local school students, already is yielding strong results. This work is about individual communities meeting their own unique education and workforce needs without unnecessary bureaucracy—which aligns with the current administration’s goal of giving decision-making power back to local districts.

The Prichard Committee, a private, non-partisan organization, is working to evaluate the effectiveness of the efforts. Here are just some of the early results:

  • Chronic absenteeism dropped by nearly 8.24 percentage points across Kentucky Community School Districts in just one year
  • Math proficiency increased by an average of 10.79 percentage points and reading by 9.24 percentage points across KCSI schools.
  • In total, 23 schools showed gains in math and 22 improved in reading during the 2024-25 school year.

Districts, community and business leaders, parents, and the Prichard Committee are reimagining how education works—by building deep, local partnerships with families, communities, and organizations. The results are real: better engagement, fewer barriers and stronger student outcomes.It’s transforming 20 districts that are leading the way through collaboration and action that leads to better students, stronger communities and a well-prepared work force.

The Kentucky Community Schools Initiative is one of the federal grants helping communities meet the needs of students and families at the local level. Overall, there are five active Full-Service Community School grants, including the Partners for Rural Impact and Wilderness Education Project, which attract more than $100 million to our commonwealth.

Kentucky’s unique strength lies in working together and that same collaborative energy is key to transforming education. Through our policies and priorities, let’s continue to support and encourage these strong community-school partnerships, which are leading to measurable and transformational results for students.

Edna Schack is a City of Morehead Council Member and a Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence member.

Rainwater and ATVs

Grayson Mayor Troy Combs. (Photo by Jeremy D. Wells, Carter County Times)
By: Charles Romans
Carter County Times

Fall events, golf carts, and storm water were all up for discussion when Grayson City Council met in regular session last Tuesday, August 12. During the public comment section of the meeting the council heard from city residents in the area of Landsdowne and Third Street about storm water that did not drain properly and adversely affected their property. Residents Steve and Suzie Duncan told the council about a depression in the road toward Hord Street and two storm drains, one of which was at the edge of their property.

“Every time it rains, the grates (on the storm drains) fill up with leaves and sticks,” Duncan told the council.

Duncan said that 20 years prior he had installed a 24-inch culvert pipe on the property, so drainage should not be a problem. But the grating being obstructed caused water to overflow onto his property.

“It ends up being a foot or more deep across the road,” he said, and often ends up in his garage.

Duncan posed as a solution that, while the paving for the water line project was underway, perhaps an additional concrete storm drain could be added to maintain the flow of storm water and eliminate back up. Grayson Mayor Troy Combs agreed that it would be an effective solution and suggested the possibility of changing the grade of the road slightly while the project was still being finished. The council agreed to look into further possible solutions.

Also on the agenda was a report from Grayson Tourism Director Lana Axtell who spoke to the council about upcoming tourism events. Axtell said the main focus was preparing for the city’s annual Octoberfest event.

“We have some new things for Octoberfest this year,” she said. “There will be the Hocus Pocus Pancake Breakfast hosted by the Baptist Church.”

The breakfast, she said, is planned to be held at the cafeteria of Prichard Elementary, but tourism is waiting on final approval for that location.

“We have also added a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party,” Axtell told the council.

Other events planned for Octoberfest are a cornhole tournament, pending the ability to secure enough boards to play multiple games, and a kid’s gaming area, Axtell said.

“There are a lot of moving pieces still,” she told the council. “But we are really excited for this year.”

Grayson utilities director Gerald Haney spoke to the council and gave an update on the city water pipe replacement project. The current project is winding down and is ahead of schedule to meet its September completion date. Haney provided maps and photographs highlighting the progress of the project to council and informed them that all the pipe had been placed.

“Everything that was going to be put in the ground for the water project has been done,” Haney told the council.

Haney also informed the council that all the old cast iron water pipes had been ‘retired.’ “Decommissioned after 94 years,” he noted.

“It has been tied in and tested,” Haney said of the new lines. “They have to replace some sidewalks, and there will be some cleanup. But for the most part, this will probably be the last week they have a full crew here. We are thinking we are still going to be replacing a segment on Fourth Street,” he added.

There is also a sewer project in that area, but the commission is still waiting for a change order to move forward with that project.

“As soon as we get that (the change order) we will give them the go ahead to start on that,” Haney said. “And at that point we will be able to move forward with the overlay paving. We are still projecting the first or second week of September for completion.”

The overlay on the roadway, Haney said, will be a full two inches of pavement on the roadway where the water project lines were installed. It will also include what Haney referred to as a ‘keyway’ milling, which is essentially blending the new roadway into an existing roadway in certain areas.

The council also discussed passing an ordinance concerning street legal special purpose vehicles. Typically, those vehicles are ATV’s, UTV’s, and Mini Trucks.

“These vehicles will have to be street legal and compliant with all regulations,” Mayor Combs reminded the council during the discussion.

One concern brought up by council members was the noise level of some of these types and models of vehicles, and the possibility of requiring individuals operating these types of vehicles to wear helmets.

The council is considering formulating an ordinance that will deal with how these vehicles operate within the city limits and vote on it at a later date. Combs added that there have been a large number of calls to his office in support of special purpose vehicles, and the council will consider this in formulating any ordinance. Currently Carter County is actively licensing such vehicles that pass inspection and pertinent regulations.

Contact the writer at charles@cartercountytimes.com

Growing business opportunities

Grayson mayor Troy Combs addresses the Grayson Area Chamber of Commerce. (Photo by Charles Romans, Carter County Times)

By: Charles Romans
Carter County Times

The Grayson Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed Grayson mayor Troy Combs as guest speaker for their August meeting. Combs spoke before the chamber not in his capacity as mayor, but rather as part of his work with the FIVCO Area Development District. FIVCO serves the counties of Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Greenup and Lawrence. FIVCO helps local areas with resources it would be difficult to secure on their own, and Combs spoke about one particular way FIVCO could potentially help local businesses.

“FIVCO has a board of directors,” Combs began as a way of explaining his role with the area development district. “The board of directors is made up of county judge executives, mayors, and community members,” he told the chamber. “Its public officials and community representatives that get together and try to conduct business on behalf of FIVCO.”

“We offer a lot of services,” Combs said. “Like aging services and things like that. But a lot of people forget about the grant writing services and RLF.”

Combs gave an example of the grant writing services FIVCO offers, listing their work with Pathways. FIVCO, he said, worked with Pathways to secure a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).

“Every public entity gets to apply for one CBDG every year,” Combs said.

“Apart from being a Board of Directors member, I am also on the Executive Committee,” Combs continued. “But we are here today to talk about the RLF Program.” Combs then introduced Janey Orcutt, who he said is the lead at FIVCO for the Revolving Loan Fund (LRF) program.

The RLF, Combs explained, is FIVCO’s attempt to fill gaps, rather than replace traditional loans.

“We are not a traditional loan program like you would get at a bank,” Combs explained to the chamber. “What we are here to do is help fill gaps in lending. There are times when people have a great idea, but they can’t get a loan. But if it was something that was really close, the banks could send them our way, and we might be able to help.”

Janey Orcutt, whose official title with FIVCO is Community & Econ Dev Planner / RLF Planner, agreed with Combs’ assessment and added information.

“That’s true,” Orcutt said. “We can also loan up to $20,000 per job created or up to $10,000 per job retained. So, if you are a current business and want to expand or you need new equipment, then you could come to us, and we could help you with that.”

“We also loan to people whose credit scores are not that great,” Orcutt told the chamber. “We can make ‘riskier’ loans than those traditional banks make. So, if the bank doesn’t cover fifty percent of your loan, then we can come in and do the rest of it.”

“The funds are for new businesses, or businesses who would like to expand, or they need help retaining employees,” Combs explained to the chamber. “There may be some businesses who realize they need a loan to keep their workforce.”

Orcutt told the chamber that the program was started when the COVID pandemic hit.

“A lot of businesses couldn’t bring their employees into work,” she said.

This was the beginning, she said of CARES and Legacy. The CARES program is federalized, she explained, where the Legacy is not and is more flexible.

The revolving loan fund is something current business owners and potential business owners are encouraged to consider, Combs said. The funds are set up to be self-perpetuating to help community businesses, and as funds are repaid they return back into the fund to be loaned out again.

Contact the writer at charles@cartercountytimes.com

Grayson Chamber announces golf scramble

titrist golf ball near golf hole
Photo by tyler hendy on Pexels.com
Staff Report
Carter County Times

The Grayson Area Chamber of Commerce has opened registration for their annual golf scramble fundraiser, scheduled for Friday, October 3, at Hidden Cove Golf Course. To register your team for the event, visit the link at https://grayson-area-chamber-of-commerce-golf-scramble.perfectgolfevent.com/ or reach out to the chamber coordinator.

This year’s fundraiser contest includes a $10,000 prize for a hole-in-one, among several others. Businesses and individuals interested in donating prizes should reach out to GACC coordinator Mike Nelson at graysonchamber41143@gmail.com. The chamber is still seeking sponsors for the event, with various positions available. For any questions about sponsorship, reach out to Jared Hitch at jhitch@fnbgrayson.com.

Recharged and Ready

West Carter's Bentley Barker (50), pushes back against the Boyd County line. (Photo by Brayleigh Boggs, Carter County Times)

By Brayleigh Boggs

Carter County Times

After finishing with a 5-6 record last season, the West Carter Comets are back this year feeling recharged, refocused, and determined to take the next step in their 2025 campaign. With a move back to Class 2A, and a completely new district, this year’s squad is optimistic about their prospects.

Following an impressive showing against Boyd County in preseason play at the Grid last week – the score was reset each quarter, but West Carter came out ahead by one in cumulative scores – the team took time to discuss their new offensive approach.

“The team is using our roster’s depth to our advantage this year,” senior quarterback Hayden Hall (15) explained. “With a constant rotation of veteran and rookie players, it helps our team stay fresh and ready for every play.”

Hall, who threw for over 1,900 yards and recorded 22 touchdowns last season, is expected to be a major leader for the Comets this year. And he’s not alone – many seniors are stepping into critical roles as the team pushes toward a breakout year.

Senior Tabor Tackett (53, OT) acknowledged the early success of the preseason but emphasized the need for full commitment.

“Our biggest setback in the Grid wasn’t that we didn’t know what to do. It was that it felt like nobody wanted to do it,” Tackett said. “We need to have everyone one hundred percent on board. We need everything out of everyone every Friday night.”

Despite facing a tough 4A opponent in Boyd County, West Carter pushed themselves and never backed down. After a slow first half, the Comets’ offense came alive. A 33-yard touchdown pass from Hall to defensive back Kadin Thompson (1), followed by a rushing touchdown from running back Nathan Flannery (0), showcased the firepower West has in its arsenal. If they can focus that firepower, and maintain its intensity, the Comets believe this could be their year.

“A district championship is always on our minds,” Hall stated confidently.

Contact the writer at news@cartercountytimes.com

  • West Carter quarterback Hayden Hall (15) prepares to pass the ball. (Photo by Brayleigh Boggs, Carter County Times)
  • West Carter quarterback Hayden Hall (15, senior) hands the ball off to running back Nathan Flannery (0, senior) during a preseason matchup against Boyd County last week. (Photo by Brayleigh Boggs, Carter County Times)

We don’t hate outsiders, we fear pretenders

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By Brandon LaVoie

For the Carter County Times

They say we hate outsiders. But if you come here hungry and honest, we’ll feed you before we feed ourselves. Always have.

I’ve watched men with nothing split their last pack of smokes with a stranger; two days from payday, nothing in their pocket but callouses. I’ve seen women digging through laundry piles to find a spare hoodie for someone else’s kid. That’s the real Appalachia. That’s the real us.

My name’s Brandon LaVoie. I run Pactolus & Sons with my family, clearing land, restoring what’s been left behind, and trying to leave something solid for our kids. I wasn’t raised with much, and neither were most of the people around here. But we’ve got dignity. And we protect it like gold.

The people I know aren’t hateful. They’re hurt. They’re tired of being tricked, labeled, and used.

And when someone shows up who doesn’t talk like them or look like them, sometimes that pain comes out sideways. Sometimes it sounds like anger. Sometimes it is anger.

But deep down? It’s fear. Not fear of difference, but fear of being played again. Of watching one more outsider sneak past the line of trust and pull the rug out from under us. That’s what happened with the mines. That’s what happened with the unions. That’s what happened with the pills.

In the Battle of Blair Mountain, it wasn’t Black versus White. It was workers versus lies. Families versus betrayal. The men wore red bandanas because they were united; not because they were pure. And we’re still fighting that same war today, just with different weapons.

What they call bigotry is sometimes just poor translation. The old men at the diner don’t have the words for systemic power grabs. They’ve never heard of cultural subversion. But they feel it.

And if you’d just sit down with them – not to argue, but to listen – you’d realize: these folks don’t want to win for themselves. They just don’t want to be erased.

If you come here with truth in your heart, we’ll house you. We’ll clothe you. We’ll walk through fire with you.

But if you come here to climb over us – if you come to win instead of share – then don’t be

surprised if the land spits you out.

We’ve buried enough betrayal in this soil. It won’t take more without a fight.

We don’t hate the world. We just remember what it did to us. And we’re not letting it happen

Again. Not without a voice, and not without a witness

Contact us at news@cartercountytimes.com

Ask Daryl – Your Professional Organizer: Update your closet

clothes hanger hanged on clothes rack
Photo by EVG Kowalievska on Pexels.com

By Daryl Ashley

Confusion Solution

It is a fact that most homes are lacking in the closet department. Time and cost have always been issues when it comes to either allowing for a larger room or installing simple limited fixtures. This means we are often subject to very few options when it comes to our specific needs, but there are things we can do. That being said, there will be a cost involved in making any suitable changes.

I don’t usually recommend buying fixtures that are bought off the shelf, only because it takes a lot more effort on our part to make them fit and they don’t always hold up over time. However, if we assess what we want in our closets and design before we buy, these are definitely solutions. Here are some tips for investing in pre-made closets:

  • Measure the existing closet space.
  • Evaluate what we would want to live in that space.
  • Use design applications online. There are many.
  • Compare material costs.
  • Determine the ease of installation.
  • Consider any obstructions.
  • Keep receipts, just in case.

The best alternative, though not always less expensive, is to search for companies in the area that will design and install closets. Preferably, either from wood or wood-like materials that will be strong, free-standing, accommodate our belongings, and look good. Here’s what is necessary to find just the right custom closet builder:

  • Research and compare companies.
  • Ask about in-home consultations.
  • Question deposits and final costs for design and installation.
  • Ask about how long it will take to finish the project.
  • Read all documents carefully.
  • Make sure they comply with specific needs.

Whether we are looking for an inexpensive quick fix or something custom, the solution for a functional closet is out there. Just check out the options carefully and oversee all installations.

It’s as simple as that!

Send your questions and comments to me at info@confusionsolution.com

Weekly Arrests: 8/20/25

The following individuals were arrested and booked into the Carter County Detention Center (CCDC) 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.

  • Thomas Leslie, 69, of Olive Hill, arrested by Olive Hill PD, on charges of third degree criminal trespass, and second degree possession of a controlled substance – drug unspecified, arrested and booked August 11.
  • Jeffrey Hansen, 63, of Amherst, VA, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on a charge of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, arrested and booked August 11.
  • Robert Ward, 44, of Ashland, self-surrender, charges unavailable, arrested and booked August 11.
  • Linda Carroll, 52, of Grayson, arrested by Grayson PD, on charges of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance, and failure to produce an insurance card, arrested and booked August 11.
  • Berman Skaggs, 47, of Olive Hill, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on charges of first degree promoting contraband, and non-payment of court costs, fees, or fines, arrested and booked August 12.
  • Gregory Hall, 40, address unavailable, arrested by Kentucky State Police, serving a warrant for a parole violation, and for failure to appear, arrested and booked August 12.
  • Kesly Moore, 20, of Ashland, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on charges of leaving the scene of an accident – failure to render aid or assistance, and operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, arrested and booked August 12.
  • Billy Collins, 42, of Grayson, arrested by Grayson PD, on a charge of public intoxication, arrested and booked August 12.
  • Anthony Potter, 43, of Grayson, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on two counts of failure to appear, arrested and booked August 12.
  • Tiffany Gonzalez, 33, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, for failure to appear, arrested and booked August 13.
  • Paul Sammons, 60, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky Department of Corrections, on a probation violation, arrested and booked August 14.
  • Staci Wagoner, 36, of Rush, arrested by Grayson PD, serving a warrant for a parole violation, and for failure to appear, arrested and booked August 14.
  • Derrick Harper, 28, of Detroit, MI, arrested by Department of Corrections, on a parole violation, arrested and booked August 14.
  • Devaine Lewis, 38, of Lexington, arrested by Kentucky Department of Corrections, on a parole violation (for a felony offense), arrested and booked August 15.
  • Tony Collins, 21, of Somerset, arrested by Carter County Detention Center, on a parole violation (for a felony offense), arrested and booked August 15.
  • Terrico Williams, 34, homeless, arrested by Carter County Detention Center, on a parole violation (for a felony offense), arrested and booked August 15.
  • Thomas Alexander, 31, of Louisville, arrested by Kentucky Department of Corrections, on a parole violation (for a felony offense), arrested and booked August 15.
  • Aaron Clem, 45, of Terre Haute, IN, arrested by Carter County Detention Center, on a parole violation (for a felony offense), arrested and booked August 15.
  • Gail Callihan, 54, of Olive Hill, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, for failure to appear, arrested and booked August 15.
  • Joseph Burton, 49, of Olive Hill, self-surrender, weekender, arrested and booked August 15.
  • Timothy Hammons, 41, of Grayson, self-surrender, weekender, arrested and booked August 15.
  • Brandon Fraley, 38, of Grayson, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on charges of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance, and possession of marijuana, arrested and booked August 16.
  • Jeremy Lyons, 44, address unavailable, arrested by Grayson PD, on charges of first degree possession of a controlled substance (cocaine), possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia, arrested and booked August 16.
  • Billy Eldridge, 48, of Grayson, arrested by Grayson PD, on charges of failure to appear, first degree trafficking in a controlled substance (two or less grams of methamphetamine), first degree trafficking in a controlled substance (10 or less dosage units, drug unspecified), possession of drug paraphernalia, and two counts of first degree possession of a controlled substance (heroin), arrested and booked August 17.

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.

Senator Robin Webb’s Legislative Update

Senator Robin Webb

This past week was full of meaningful opportunities to connect with Kentuckians and represent our commonwealth on both local and national stages. Last Saturday, I had the honor of delivering the invocation at the Kentucky Statewide Lincoln Day Dinner. As the newest Republican member of the General Assembly, it was inspiring to gather with Republicans from across the state to celebrate the principles that guide our party and our public service. Opening the evening in prayer gave me a moment to reflect on the work we do each day to serve our communities and the importance of staying grounded in the values that have shaped Kentucky for generations.

Last week, I also had the privilege of representing Kentucky at the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) and participating in a panel discussion on the North American Model for Wildlife Conservation. As a lifelong sportsman, this topic is especially close to my heart. Hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation have been a part of my life since I was young and taught me respect for nature, patience, and the value of stewardship. The North American Model for Wildlife Conservation, grounded in sound science, accountability, and sustainable management, ensures that these traditions can continue for generations to come.

On the panel, we discussed the critical role state policies play in protecting wildlife habitats, regulating harvests responsibly, and funding conservation programs that benefit both the environment and the communities that rely on it. From maintaining healthy deer and turkey populations to supporting fishing programs and public lands access, strong conservation practices help preserve the outdoor heritage that is such an important part of eastern Kentucky life. I am committed to working in Frankfort to ensure that Kentucky remains a leader in responsible wildlife management and balancing conservation with the opportunities for sportsmen and families to enjoy the outdoors safely and responsibly.

It’s always inspiring to see the people of northeast Kentucky actively engaged in their communities. Whether attending a local event, volunteering, or advocating for fairness and justice, these actions remind me why public service is such an honor.

As the new school year approaches, I want to wish students, teachers, and families a successful start. Just as the law provides structure and guidance, strong education equips our young people to thrive, think critically, and contribute to the communities they call home. Here’s to a year of learning, growth, and civic responsibility in every corner of eastern Kentucky.

###

Sen. Robin Webb, R-Grayson, represents the 18th Senate District, which includes Boyd, Carter, Greenup, and Lewis Counties. She serves as co-chair of the Disaster Prevention and Resiliency Task Force. She is a member of the Interim Joint Committees on Agriculture, Appropriations and Revenue, Families and Children, and Natural Resources and Energy. Webb is a liaison member of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Justice and Judiciary. Additionally, she serves on several statutory committees, including 2026-2028 Budget Preparation and Submission, Capital Projects and Bond Oversight, Tobacco Settlement Agreement Fund Oversight, and as a non-voting ex officio member of the Juvenile Justice Oversight Council. 

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