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Joyal “Joe” Skaggs

Joyal “Joe” Skaggs, age 95, of Olive Hill, Kentucky, went home to be with the Lord, Friday, March 20, 2026, at his residence.

He was born Thursday, January 22, 1931, in Elliott County, Kentucky, a son of the late Elijah and May Kinster Skaggs.

Joe was a devoted husband, father, papaw and Christian. He gave his heart to the Lord and was baptized in March 1981 at Lower Rock Lick Enterprise Baptist Church in Fleming County, Kentucky. He loved sharing the love of the Lord with anyone that he came in contact with. He enjoyed going to church, singing the praises of the Lord with his family, playing his banjo, farming, gardening and spending time with his family—especially squeezing his babies.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 71 years, Opal Holbrook Skaggs; one daughter, Dazel Mauk; two great-grandchildren, Randy Sammons, Thomas Holbrook; two brothers, Norwood Skaggs, Willie Skaggs; one sister, Wonedia Flannery and one son-in-law, Ed Williams.

Joe is survived by two sons, Joyal Thomas Skaggs of Salt Lick, Kentucky, Glen Willie (Loretta) Skaggs of Elliott County, Kentucky; four daughters, Della Faye Williams of Richmond, Kentucky, Patricia Ann (Johnny) Holbrook of Olive Hill, Kentucky, Melissa (Jim Tom) Caudill of Morehead, Kentucky, Karen Sue (Eric) Fulcher of Prospect, Kentucky; 21 grandchildren; a host of great-grandchildren; one brother, Waldo Skaggs of Stark, Kentucky; four sisters, Marcella Hawes of Stark, Kentucky, Arvetta Adkins of Brown Ridge, Kentucky, Helen Williams, Lois Machen both of Augusta, Kentucky, along with many other family and friends who will sadly miss him.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Globe Funeral Chapel, 17277 West US Hwy 60, Olive Hill, Kentucky, with Brother Ronnie Easterling, Brother Bobby Day and Brother Willie Skaggs Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in Joyal Skaggs Family Cemetery in Elliott County, Kentucky.

Friends may visit from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., Tuesday, March 24, 2026 and after 9 a.m., Wednesday, March 25, 2026, until the service hour at Globe Funeral Chapel.

Joe’s grandsons and great-grandsons will serve as pallbearers.

Globe Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the family of Joyal “Joe” Skaggs.

Marilyn Ruth Adams

Marilyn Ruth Adams, age 67, of Olive Hill, Kentucky, passed away Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Southern Ohio Medical Center in Portsmouth, Ohio.

She was born Friday, August 15, 1958, in Carter County, Kentucky, a daughter of the late Charles and Maxine Duncan Adams.

Marilyn loved caring for her dogs and cats. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her granddaughter, Miranda Kay Adams and one sister, Sheila Adams.

She is survived by two sons, Toby (Audrey) Adams of Lima, Ohio, and Brandon (Angela) Adams of Olive Hill, Kentucky; two grandchildren, Brandon Blake Adams, Cassandra Brooke Adams; three great-grandchildren, Carlee Ann, William Blake, Hunter Thomas Wayne, along with many other family and friends who will sadly miss her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 7 p.m., Monday, March 23, 2026, at Globe Funeral Chapel, 17277 W. US-60, Olive Hill, Kentucky with Sister Brandy Glover and Brother L.A. Biggs officiating. Burial will follow in Mayo Cemetery.

Friends may visit after 5 p.m., Monday, March 23, 2026, until the service hour at Globe Funeral Chapel.

Globe Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the family of Marilyn Ruth Adams.

Diana Lynn Cline Carroll

Diana Lynn Cline Carroll, age 72, of Olive Hill, Kentucky, passed away Monday, March 16, 2026, at UK-St. Claire Health Care in Morehead, Kentucky.

She was born Saturday, September 19, 1953, in Carter County, Kentucky, a daughter of the late Paul and Dessie Stephens Cline.

Diana was a member of First Christian Church of Olive Hill. She enjoyed reading, caring for her cats, clearing land and spending time with her family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Bill Carroll; one brother, Jim Cline and two sisters,  Kay Baker and Shelia Bales..

Diana is survived by one son, Bobby Carroll of Ohio; four sisters, Brenda Cline of Olive Hill, Kentucky, Margaret (Mick) Carlson of Atoka, Tennessee, Donna (Joe) Cordle of Conway, Arkansas and Marie (Terry) Sublett of Catlettsburg, Kentucky, along with many other family and friends who will sadly miss her.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, March 20, 2026, at Globe Funeral Chapel, 17277 West US Hwy 60, Olive Hill, Kentucky, with Brother Adam Foster officiating. Burial will follow in Carroll Cemetery on Rattlesnake Ridge.

Friends may visit after 9:30, Friday, March 20, 2026, until the service hour at Globe Funeral Chapel.

Loberta Knipp

Loberta Bair Knipp, 80 of Olive Hill, Kentucky passed away Friday, March 20, 2026, at her home. She was born in Carter County, Kentucky on May 26, 1945, a daughter of the late Virgil and Lenora Stigall Bair.

Loberta attended the Beartown Church of God and enjoyed movies, watching television, cooking, reading, working puzzles and especially spending time with her family. She loved her Lord and her faith was very important to her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel David Knipp, Sr. who passed away February 12, 2022, four brothers, Burlin Jackson Bair, William Gilbert Bair, Elmer Bair and Delmer Bair.

Survivors include two sons, Daniel David Knipp, Jr. (Jamie) and Matthew Virgil Knipp (Robbin) all of Olive Hill, Kentucky, one daughter, Jennifer Beth Conn (Daniel) of Olive Hill, Kentucky, one sister, Floella Baldridge of Clearfield, Kentucky and two grandsons, Michael Ryan Knipp and Mark Andrew Hamm. Also, several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were conducted at 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in the chapel of the Michael R. Gray Funeral Home in Morehead with Brother Elijah Wagoner officiating. Burial followed in the Manning Chapel Cemetery in Carter County.

Visitation at the Michael R. Gray Funeral Home in Morehead was after 11:00 A.M. Tuesday.

Pallbearers were Matthew Knipp, Mark Andrew Hamm, Michael Ryan Knipp, Michael Gregg, Timmy Stockton and Stephen Bair. Honorary pallbearers were Danny Knipp and Bryan Fraley. 

The Michael R. Gray Funeral Home, 808 Old Flemingsburg Road, Morehead, Kentucky cared for all arrangements for Loberta Bair Knipp.

To view the online memorial and sign the guest book, please visit www.mrgrayfh.com.

Keep the Menu Small

two people holding white papers
Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com
By: Tommy Druen
Guest Columnist

We are all shaped by the people we watch. Some leave a mark intentionally. Others—like the man I encountered one rainy afternoon in 2006—leave one without ever knowing we exist.

A thunderstorm rolled in while my wife and I were at the beach. The sky turned charcoal, the waves grew choppy, and I found myself trapped indoors with little to do. Flipping through channels, I landed on the Travel Channel and encountered a wiry, sharp-tongued chef named Anthony Bourdain.

I was captivated immediately.

Here was a man who traveled the globe not in search of five-star luxury, but in pursuit of authenticity. He ate fermented shark in Iceland, roasted pigeon in Egypt, and balut—that controversial fetal duck delicacy from the Philippines. But what fascinated me most wasn’t the shock value of the cuisine—it was the culture surrounding it. The stories. The people. The pride served alongside every plate. Through him, I traveled vicariously for years and came to understand that food is rarely just food. It is history, identity, and community made tangible.

That Christmas, my wife gave me a copy of Kitchen Confidential, Bourdain’s 2000 memoir exposing the underbelly of New York’s restaurant scene. Having never worked so much as a fast-food shift, I found myself immersed in a world both gritty and strangely beautiful. Kitchens, I learned, weren’t simply places where meals were assembled. They were ecosystems built on hierarchy, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence—as well as an unhealthy amount of stimulants.

I emerged with three practical lessons that reached far beyond the kitchen:

First, never order the Monday special. There’s no telling how long it’s been sitting around.

Second, pay attention to your server’s body language. A server’s genuine enthusiasm reveals whether a kitchen cares. Indifference reveals indifference.

And third, the smaller the menu, the more optimistic I become.

That last point seems counterintuitive. After all, wouldn’t more options increase the odds of finding something I’d enjoy? Perhaps. But more options also increase the likelihood that nothing is done exceptionally well. My experience has taught me this: the more sprawling and diverse the offerings, the less likely any single dish has been perfected. But walk into a place that offers two or three entrées—prepared the same way every night—and you can rest reasonably assured they’ve mastered them. Otherwise, they wouldn’t remain in business for long.

That principle extends far beyond restaurants.

We all know the phrase “jack of all trades, master of none.” It’s not the harshest of criticisms, but it’s hardly a compliment either. And yet modern life seems determined to push us in precisely that direction.

We’re expected to simultaneously be exceptional spouses, parents, children, employees, volunteers, and informed citizens. We’re shamed if we haven’t seen the award-winning film, formed a thoughtful opinion on international conflicts, responded to every email within the hour, exercised daily, hydrated properly, and somehow found time for self-care in the margins.

For all the conveniences technology has added to our lifetimes, the result hasn’t been leisure—it’s been expectation. Our grandparents would have seen our lives as chaos masquerading as productivity. But they had something we’ve surrendered: the right to down time. To call a day complete. To let something remain undone.

Our grandparents had the same twenty-four hours we do. The clock hasn’t changed. So why do we feel so stretched? So fragmented? So perpetually behind?

Perhaps it’s because we’ve allowed our menus to become too large. We’ve tried to offer everything—to everyone—at all times. Mastery requires focus. Deep focus. The kind that demands saying no to almost everything so you can say yes—fully, deeply—to a few things that matter.

Maybe the better path forward isn’t to expand our offerings, but to refine them. Choose two or three things that matter most. Invest there. Perfect those dishes. A well-crafted life, like a well-crafted menu, never apologizes for what it doesn’t offer. It triumphs because of what it does.

In the past, bringing the circus to town was a happy, exciting event.

circus theme party
Photo by Vidal Balielo Jr. on Pexels.com
By: Keith Kappes
Columnist
Carter County Times

          Instead of the proposed $400 million monstrosity of a gaudy, gilded ballroom overshadowing the White House, it seems we would be better served by erecting a giant circus tent instead.

            That much less costly structure is normally what is used to display the clown show at the circus. And, for the last 14-plus months, I believe a clown show is what we have seen operating out of the Oval Office.

            Those expensive clown cars and planes that haul the clown cabinet around the world might be better used to generate a few bucks to help defray the cost of an undeclared war and an underfunded federal government that cruelly fired many of its most seasoned employees. Perhaps worst of all, we are witnessing what likely has become the world’s most costly ego trip focused on the names and size of various national memorials.

            As for the war with Iran, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, a former TV celebrity, appears more concerned about how he looks in news photographs and how often he can kiss up to his boss who obviously shares his conviction that only white men can become effective military leaders.

            A Washington insider was quoted last week as saying that the very old man in charge doesn’t like his clown cabinet members to wear sneakers to White House clown meetings so he is buying them dressy leather shoes. It is believed that some of the shoes are too big but are worn to work regardless because no one has the courage to complain.

            Come to think of it, don’t clowns still wear oversized, floppy shoes with their colorful costumes?

            And shouldn’t we all be concerned about the other clowns in charge of various departments like the now-being-fired DHS secretary Kristi Noem who made a shambles of ICE and FEMA and damaged the Coast Guard budget with a $50 million jetliner for her personal travel. My favorite Noem gaffe was featuring herself in glamor photographs in a taxpayer-funded $200 million advertising splurge.

            “Send in the Clowns” is a famous song from Stephen Sondheim’s 1973 musical, “A Little Night Music,” but surely we have realized that it clearly is not the best way to manage the federal government.

            Contact Keith at keithkappes@gmail.com.

Extension Notes: Beyrond the Scarecrow: Smart Approaches to Controlling Wildlife on the Farm

cows grazing on field
Photo by Mike van Schoonderwalt on Pexels.com
By: Rebecca Konopka
Carter County Extension Agent

Wildlife is integral to Kentucky’s landscape, and farms inevitably share space with a diverse range of animals. Rather than attempting to eliminate wildlife — an unrealistic and counterproductive goal — effective on-farm wildlife management can work to reduce conflicts and encourage natural behaviors that keep wildlife and people safely separated. Consider these strategies: 

Define the problem — and the likely culprit. 

Is the interaction causing harm or simply inconvenience? Economic loss, crop damage or threats to safety clearly require intervention, while other encounters — like a harmless snake sighting — may only require tolerance.  

Identifying the species responsible for damage is not always simple. Clues such as habitat type, height of tree damage, bite patterns, tracks and scat can narrow the possibilities. Trail cameras, field guides and expert assistance can also provide confirmation. 

Modify the habitat. 

Small changes can make the environment less inviting and discourage wildlife from lingering near crops, buildings and livestock areas. Modifications can include: 

  • Reducing cover by mowing or clearing vegetation 
  • Removing attractants such as fallen fruit, unsecured feed or debris 
  • Eliminating denning or nesting sites such as hollow trees or woodpiles 

Use deterrents strategically. 

Deterrents can provide short-term protection. Visual tools like decoys or scare devices often work best when rotated frequently so animals do not become accustomed to them. Try to introduce them right before wildlife pressure increases, such as just before fruit ripens or during calving season.  

Deterrents like lasers or noise-making devices can help in certain scenarios but rarely offer permanent relief. For any deterrent, timing and variety matter more than the device itself.  

Invest in fencing and exclosures. 

Fencing is one of the most reliable long-term options for reducing wildlife damage, especially around high-value crops and livestock. Though they require higher upfront costs, well-designed exclosures reduce the need for repeated deterrents. 

Deer generally require structures at least eight feet tall, but an offset fence disrupts their depth perception. Electrified fences are more appropriate for wildlife that climb or dig.  

Exclosures also work best when installed proactively, before animals get accustomed to feeding or traveling in the protected area.  

Trap and hunt to reduce populations. 

Trapping and hunting can be effective, especially for species like raccoons and deer. Kentucky law (KRS 150.170) allows landowners to protect their property from most wildlife, except those protected under federal law (bats and migratory birds). When animals are taken, landowners must notify a conservation officer to obtain a confirmation number and may only keep consumable meat. 

Hunting also supports long-term deer management and can provide supplemental income through leased access. Effective population control requires harvesting does, and landowners should monitor harvest outcomes. 

Plan for long-term management. 

There is no one-time, permanent fix. Effective management requires persistence and the combination of multiple strategies.  

Every farm is different, and species-specific recommendations vary widely. Next week we will take a deeper dive into managing small mammals in the garden.   For additional tailored assistance, contact your Carter Extension office, where agents can help identify wildlife problems and recommend safe, effective management options.  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:

  • Northeast Area Livestock Association – March 24th at 6:00 PM; Topic: Farm Management Strategies for Improved Decision-Making; Speaker: Dr. Jordan Shockley, UK Ag Econ Extension Professor
  • Ag Advancement Council – March 30th @ 6:00 PM
  • Hike & Learn – April 2nd @ Ohio River Bluffs

March Marks the 41st Anniversary of Music In Our Schools Month®!

Lawrence Banks conducts the Carter County All-County Band during a practice. (submitted photo)

GRAYSON — For more than 40 years, March has been designated by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) as Music In Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®). The positive impact of music education in the lives of students lasts a lifetime. Therefore, ensuring equitable access to music education for the youngest members of our society – students – is paramount.

Every day, in classrooms and rehearsal rooms across our school district, music educators dedicate themselves to reaching all students with life-changing musical experiences. Parents, administrators, and the wider community often only see the wonderful results of music performances; however, we miss the months of practice and rehearsals and more importantly the learning process that takes place to make it all happen.

Members of our community are encouraged to acknowledge and celebrate music education as an essential part of every student’s educational journey.

As part of Carter County’s Music in Our Schools Month celebration we recently held our annual Carter County All-County Band. This took place at West Carter High School on Saturday March 14.

This year we were very excited to have Lawrence Banks as our guest conductor, conducting the band on Excelsior! by James Cunrow, Stay by Randall Standridge, Irish Legend arranged by Joseph Eidson, Joy by Frank Ticheli, and the Phantom of the Opera arranged by Michael Sweeney.

Lawrence Banks is an experienced and dedicated music educator currently in his fifteenth year with the Catholic Diocese of Lexington. He teaches 5th-8th grade band at Seton Catholic School and Christ The King School, as well as grades 9-12 at Lexington Catholic High School (LCHS), where he conducts both the Concert and Symphonic Bands. In addition to his responsibilities with the main ensembles, Mr. Banks also oversees the jazz band, percussion ensemble, and pep bands at LCHS.

Mr. Banks is a respected member of several prestigious music organizations, including the Music Educators National Conference, the Kentucky Music Educators Association, and the American School Band Directors Association. He is also a proud member of Phi Mu Alpha and Phi Beta Mu Bandmaster Fraternity. His expertise extends beyond the classroom, as he is a sought-after adjudicator and clinician throughout the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

A graduate of Morehead State University, Lawrence earned his bachelor’s degree in music education there. During his time at Morehead, he was an active member of the university’s marching band, serving as drum major for three years. He studied tuba under Dr. Stacy Baker and received his conducting instruction from Dr. Richard Miles, both of whom influenced his development as a musician and educator.

Before joining the Diocese of Lexington, Mr. Banks served as the assistant band director at George Rogers Clark High School in Winchester, KY, where he also taught elementary music for grades K-5.

In addition to his teaching career, Lawrence has a rich performing background. He has played with several notable musical ensembles, including the Morehead State University Symphony and Marching Bands, The Sacred Winds Music Ministries, The Lexington Brass Band, The Miles of Jazz Orchestra, The Bluegrass Area Jazz Ambassadors, the Central Kentucky Concert Band, and the BlueBrass Quintet.

Outside of his professional commitments, Lawrence is passionate about working with area high school marching bands. A sports enthusiast, he is an avid supporter of the UK Wildcats and the Cincinnati Bengals. Lawrence also maintains a private lesson studio, where he teaches middle and high school students in the local area.

Lawrence lives in Lexington, KY with his wife, Emily, and their two daughters.

Joyful Noise: Faithfulness and truth!

shallow focus photography of man wearing red polo shirt
Photo by Nathan Cowley on Pexels.com

By Pastor Naomi Mitchell

For Carter County Times

I have good news for you. In a world where everything seems to be chaos or on the brink of disaster there is one thing for certain, God’s counsel (Word) hasn’t changed! His Word is forever settled! The thoughts of God’s heart are still to all generations. His thoughts are about you and me right now at this very moment, everyday!

Psalm 33:11 The counsel of the Lord standeth forever; the thoughts of his heart to all generations. Isaiah 25:1 says, “O LORD, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.” Psalm 33:4 says, “For the Word of the Lord is right; and all His works are done in truth.”

His counsels of old are faithfulness (they do not fail) and truth (the purposes of God are firm and will certainly be fulfilled).

When we think about all the wonderful things the Lord has done, it is easy to make the decision to worship the Lord. God wants our worship to be filled with thought and remembrance of God’s great works, not only an emotional response. When we remember the greatness and permanence of God’s Word, it makes us want to praise Him. What is more reliable, more everlasting, more enduring than the Word of God?

In the book of Isaiah, Jesus is called “Wonderful Counselor” when the prophet writes about the coming Christ. Isaiah 9:6 says, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”  Jesus is called the Wonderful Counselor because He alone can give us guidance, help, and deliverance through His wisdom and miracles. He causes everything to work together for a twofold purpose: The greatest good of mankind and the highest glory to God.

Reminder of Psalm 33:11 which say, “The Word of the Lord standeth forever, the thoughts of His heart to all generations.” No matter what is going on in this great big world which includes your little world, “The Word of the Lord that stands forever” has already told us about things that will come. We have the assurance that “the thought of His heart is to all generations” and that “the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and His ears are open unto their cry.” Psalm 34:7 says, “The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them.” Psalm 35:9 says, “And my soul shall be joyful in the Lord: it shall rejoice in His salvation.”

Get into the Word and find out more about His counsels of old that are faithfulness and truth to all generations. Be joyful and rejoice that His thoughts are higher than our thoughts and His ways are higher than our ways. To find out more about what His thoughts are for you, open your Bible! Stop worrying, God’s got this!

Amen! So be it!

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.

Tourism discusses future projects

(Photo by Charles Romans, Carter County Times)
By: Charles Romans
Carter County Times

The Grayson Tourism Commission met in its regularly scheduled meeting last Thursday (March 12) to discuss finances and tourism projects for the city. Financial reports included a statement of activities from the Sports Park for the month of February in the amount of nearly $71,000 in restaurant tax collected. $703,000 of restaurant tax was reported as collected for the fiscal year, compared to the same period the previous fiscal year of $638,000. Concession sales for the year to date were reported at $67,000, compared to $70,000 the previous year. Total profit for the month was reported at $71,543, and a yearly profit of $774,00.

In other business, Tourism Director Lana Axtell discussed upcoming projects with the Tourism Commission.

“We are going to do the Easter egg hunt at Kentucky Christian University,” Axtell told the commission. “I do have some extra empty eggs that I saved from last year and I am going to buy some candy. The kids at the college are going to be the ones stuffing the eggs. And that’s part of the great partnership with them.”

Axtell said she was still seeking donations to be applied to that community event.

“It will be held on the Saturday before Easter,” Axtell told the commission. “And we are hoping to have a pretty good turnout for that.”

Axtell told the commission that Danny Stamper from KCU had reached out to her about the university’s Summer in the Sun concert series.

“We do that every year at the college, and I think it is very beneficial,” she said.

Axtell pointed out that given there is no food at the concert series, people who attend will be patronizing local restaurants and other related businesses in Grayson.

“That is exactly what tourism is,” Axtell said. “Plus, we have such a good relationship with KCU, and moving forward with them is a good decision.”

“I have spoken with Carl Burton from Carter County Tourism,” Axtell added. “There is a new group that’s called Appalachian Front Porch Tourism that a lot of folks are signing up for. It’s going to cover this end of the Tristate, so instead of a lot of advertising going toward Lexington, which honestly doesn’t bring a lot back this way, it’s going to go the other way and bring people in from West Virginia and Ohio.”

Another item Axtell brought to the commission’s attention was the clock tower.

“We do still have the clock tower,” she told the commission.

She pointed out to the commission that in the movie Back to the Future, a central part of the movie was the fundraising efforts to repair the city clock tower.

“I have reached out to some Delorean groups about putting together a Back to the Future Festival,” Axtell said.

Encouraging people to dress up as their favorite character from that series of movies would be a fun way for the community to help raise money to repair the clock tower.

“We have got some bids, and they aren’t cheap because there aren’t very many companies that can repair that type of clock,” Axtell said.

The clock has four faces, and she estimated it to be about 12 feet tall, explaining why estimates for repairs were around $9,000.

“I’m sure there will be some businesses that will donate to the repairs,” she said. “But the Back to the Future themed festival could raise money and be a lot of fun.”

The Tourism Commission also discussed the potential for a new event venue with a local nonprofit. The proposed project has the potential to generate tourism dollars for the city, but potential concepts and costs are being discussed, and no decisions were made at the March meeting regarding the proposal.

Contact the writer at charles@cartercountytimes.com

Grayson Council discusses ordinances and tax reduction

(Photo by Charles Romans, Carter County Times)
By: Charles Romans
Carter County Times

Grayson City Council welcomed Mike Nelson to their regularly scheduled meeting in March. Nelson, who is very active in the community in roles such as Director of the Grayson Chamber of Commerce, was present at the meeting in his media capacity through local radio station WUGO.

“We are recording tonight’s meeting, and actually streaming it on our YouTube page,” Nelson told the council. “We started streaming East Carter athletics earlier this year as a test to see how it would go. We had numerous games where we have had a couple of thousand people watching it at the same time. And we are basically running this test tonight just to see how it goes.”

“We will be able to stream council meetings live on our Go Radio local YouTube page each and every month,” Nelson told the council. “If the council would like that, we have the capability of doing that.”

Nelson said that the March meeting was a test to make sure everything went well.

Mayor Troy Combs told council that Nelson had brought the proposal to him, and he subsequently invited Nelson to the meeting so he could address the council and answer any questions the members of council might have.

“I invited him to do a test run,” Combs said. “But this is the council’s chambers, and I would like to have your approval going forward.”

The council members will be able to view the finished product and then discuss it at the next regular meeting.

The council next heard from visitors who were listed on their agenda, beginning with Andrew Smith from the Department of Corrections Inmate Services. Smith addressed the council concerning the possibility of the city using inmates to perform work in the city.

“If the council approves, you will get four inmates per day for a minimum of six hours,” Smith said. “They will be training with the street department, the mayor, and Joe Hammer.”

Smith said the cost for all three inmate workers would be $350 per month.

“The City of Olive Hill does it,” Smith told the council.

Smith said Elliott County also uses the inmate workers, and both of those government entities are very pleased with the results.

Smith explained the mechanics of making use of the inmate workers to the council, stating that the inmates would need to be picked up to perform whatever work was required, and be supervised constantly from the time of pickup until the time of return. There would also need to be several of these supervisors added to an approved pickup list, and Smith said that as long as the supervisor was on the list, there could be different individuals doing pickup and return. The council made a plan to discuss the possibility of using inmate services, but no vote was taken at the meeting.

In other business, local businessman Larry Doucett addressed the council about amending an alcohol ordinance in the city.

“As you may have heard, I am putting a cigar lounge on 112 East Main Street,” Doucett told the council. “What I want to do is have the license amended so I can sell bourbon. I don’t want to sell beer or anything but top shelf bourbon.”

Doucett stressed to the council that he had no interest in starting a bar but rather intended to sell only drinks that would heighten the enjoyment of his customers while they smoked premium cigars. The cigar lounge would be selling premium cigars, humidors, and other items geared toward the cigar culture, Doucett said. The business would also sell fine pipe tobacco as well as the pipes themselves.

“You will be able to sit inside and smoke a good cigar,” Doucett told the council.

He also informed the council that the projected hours of operation were not before 11 am and closing during the week not later than 9 pm, and weekend closing hours of no later than 10pm. The council discussed possible ways to accommodate Doucett’s request, but no action was taken at the March meeting.

The council took a brief break from city business to remember Councilman Willis Johnson who recently passed away. Council members shared stories of the man who had been a friend to all of them and had served the city for decades. But after this break of remembrance, there was the need to fill the former councilman’s seat so that the business of the city could continue. Ultimately, another former council member, Terry Stamper (an 18-year veteran of the council), was sworn in to fill the balance of Johnson’s term.

There was discussion during the meeting concerning a reduction to the municipal tax, but no action was taken. In a special meeting, however, the council conducted a first reading of the amended Municipal Insurance Premium Tax Ordinance. The amended ordinance effectively reduces the tax from 10.5 percent to 10 percent, lowering it by a half of a percent.

Mayor Troy Combs said that the loss of revenue from reducing the tax would be between $30 thousand to $50 thousand each year, but the benefit to Grayson residents would far outweigh that budgetary loss. In practical terms, the savings each Grayson taxpayer can expect will be around ten dollars per month, Combs said. But especially considering unilaterally rising costs and the recent increase to electric bills, Combs said the .5 percent reduction is one thing the city is able to do to help its residents with their own monthly expenses.

The amended ordinance was scheduled for a second reading Tuesday, March 17, and was expected to pass.

Contact the writer at charles@cartercountytimes.com

Jury acquits Estepp on sexual abuse charges

Harlee Estepp, center, is flanked by his attorneys as the verdict is read in this still image from court provided video. (Submitted image)

By Jeremy D. Wells
Carter County Times

A Carter County jury heard six days of evidence from law enforcement, school administrators and personnel, and the alleged victim and her family before returning a verdict on Tuesday, March 3 finding former West Carter and Paul Blazer special education teacher Harlee Estepp not guilty on all three charges against him, including two counts of first degree sexual abuse and one count of unlawful use of electronic means to induce a minor to engage in sexual activities.

The verdict marks the end of a tumultuous five years for both the accused and the alleged victim since the allegations first surfaced in the summer between the alleged victim’s freshman and sophomore years of high school.

According to the story presented by the alleged victim and her mother, the family was set up at the Haldeman Volunteer Fire Department when Estepp allegedly sent a text message to the minor. The mother saw the message pop up on the unattended phone, displaying the name Harlee according to the mother’s testimony. The alleged victim said it should have come up as “H” but that when the mother – who had her daughter’s passcode – opened the phone she would have been able to see the full first name. That name was the tipoff for the mother, who didn’t believe her daughter’s claim that it was someone else messaging her because of the unique spelling of Estepp’s first name. After discussing the content of the text with her husband, which they read as a request for nude images from the minor without explicitly stating such, the alleged victim’s stepfather suggested calling the police.

During the course of those initial police interviews and the subsequent investigation, the alleged victim denied any wrongdoing by Estepp. The mother of the alleged victim claimed that her child expressed concern about the teacher getting in trouble, a sentiment that the alleged victim echoed during her testimony. The alleged victim, now a freshman at UK, said that over the time that has elapsed since the initial investigation, she’d come to understand how damaging Estepp’s alleged actions had been, and no longer felt the need to protect him. After discussing the incident with someone at a later date the incident was reported as required by law, prompting the second investigation, arrest, and trial.

Over the course of the trial the jury heard from Kentucky State Police detectives involved in the original investigation, as well as the second investigation about the evidence collected. While a number of photos and videos showed Estepp spending time with students, including the alleged victim, during weekly school field trips for special education students, known as CBI or community based instruction days, none of those videos or photos showed any of the allegations of inappropriate touching.

Likewise, the suggestive text message seen by the alleged victim’s mother was not preserved by the mother or the state police. The mother testified that after the initial investigation faltered, she deleted her screen shot or photo of the text message because it distressed her having it on her phone.

School administrators, including the principal at West Carter at the time of the alleged incident, testified about the CBI trips, including the need to document which students participated as student peer mentors or in related capacities. While the alleged victim could not be a peer mentor yet as a freshman, she was involved with the club that peer mentors are drawn from.

The director of transportation and maintenance for the school district also testified about the capabilities and limitations of the cameras employed on all buses used for such field trips, and reviewed footage from some of those trips with the court.

Clothing that the alleged victim said Estepp gave her to wear for him, Estepp’s lawyers argued, was actually old clothing that Estepp had brought into his classroom for instances when students had accidents and needed a change of clothing. Photos taken by the alleged victim in those items of clothing were shared by the alleged victim, but investigators did not find any evidence of those photos being shared to Estepp’s phone or any apps on his device that could have saved such evidence. Likewise, images from Snapchat that clearly showed communication between the alleged victim and Estepp were from a trivia game that Estepp played with individuals or the entire peer mentor group.

Estepp’s attorney, Sebastian Joy, admitted that his client did engage in a non-professional manner by chatting via social media, but that this did not amount to a crime – particularly as the law banning such communications had not been enacted yet at the time of the alleged incidents, while the prosecution alleged that Estepp engaged in a pattern of grooming, including those unprofessional communications, and according to the alleged victim expressed concerns about what could happen to him if people found out about his inappropriate relationship with a student.  

Ultimately, the jury agreed that there was not sufficient evidence to convict Estepp, finding him not guilty on all three counts. The verdict elicited audible sobs from those in the courtroom, drawing an admonition from the judge to remember where they were.

Contact the writer at editor@cartercountytimes.com

AS WE SEE IT: Please don’t flush your wipes

modern minimalist bathroom with vanity and toilet
Photo by Peter Vang on Pexels.com

Bathroom products have come a long way since Mr. Whipple asked us to please not squeeze the Charmin, and that’s a good thing. But as wonderful as it is to leave the bathroom feeling fresh and clean, you can’t believe all the marketing hype – especially when it comes to “flushable” wipes. Because while these so-called “flushable” wipes may go down the drain with fewer clogs than old fashioned baby wipes, they can still cause significant issues for wastewater treatment centers.

It’s an issue that the Grayson Utilities Commission is unfortunately very familiar with, to the point that the utility recently sent out notices to customers asking them to please refrain from flushing these types of sanitary wipes – encouraging them instead to place these items their bathroom garbage.

The notice asks them to “help in preventing clogged sewers and overflows,” noting that “increased flushing of wipes (and) paper towels cause issues in sewer systems and lift station(s).”

“In recent weeks,” the letter to customers read, “the Wastewater Lift Station on River Road has experienced frequent pump outages caused by a large volume of ‘flushable’ wipes and paper towels.”

It then goes on to explain that even items marked as “flushable” can create issues when they don’t break down exactly like toilet paper.

“Even wipes labeled flushable don’t break down like toilet paper,” the letter continued. “Once flushed, they often tangle together, blocking pumps, and cause costly backups in homes and throughout the wastewater system. When pumps stations are clogged, they stop working and require cleaning and repair – or even replacement – in order to get the sewage moving again. These expenses can be very costly and could eventually lead to increases in sewage rates for all customers.”

You read that right. If folks continue to flush items that shouldn’t be flushed, we could all see our utility bills increase.

But why can’t you flush these items, even though they are labeled by the manufacturer as flush safe? Well, the utilities commission explained that too.

“Wipes are made from strong fibers, designed to hold together when wet – a feature that makes them useful for cleaning, but disastrous for plumbing,” the utility noted. “When flushed, they collect on other debris inside sewer lines and create larger blockages.”

So, even though you can still poke a finger through them with relative ease, they don’t break down the same way tissue does. And because they can create these “larger blockages,” they can also lead to other issues inside the home. Some of these, according to the utilities commission, include “backed up drains and toilets inside homes, and damage to household plumbing systems,” as well as “expensive repairs to wastewater pumps and treatment equipment.”

No one wants any of that – particularly the first two that are more likely to hit tenants or homeowners than the utility.

So, what can be flushed? According to the utilities commission, “only toilet paper and human waste should be flushed. Everything else belongs in the trash – even items that say flushable.”

In addition to avoiding placing flushable wipes in the toilet, the utility says the trash bin is also the best place for baby wipes, cleaning wipes, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, cotton swabs, dental floss, coffee grounds, food waste (including fats, oils, or grease, which the utility says should “never” be poured down drains), cat litter and other pet wastes, or needles and sharps. Flushing any of those items can cause problems both inside the customers’ home as well as for the utility. But “taking a few simple steps at home,” they note, “can prevent costly repairs and keep the wastewater system running smoothly.”
Sure, it’s convenient for us to flush them and forget them. Out of sight, out of mind, as they say. Particularly when we aren’t the ones who have to clear a clogged pump station. But increased utility rates – or the cost of a plumber to fix problems on your side of the meter – those won’t stay out of sight or out of mind very long at all.

Perhaps it’s best to just heed the commission’s warning, and put those “flushable” wipes in the trash.

Contact the writer at editor@cartercountytimes.com

Chamber promotes job fair

KCU students interact with local businesses during the Grayson Chamber’s Job Fair & Career Expo last Wednesday. (Photo by Jeremy D. Wells, Carter County Times)
By: Charles Romans
Carter County Times

Grayson Chamber of Commerce Director Mike Nelson reported during last week’s meeting that chamber membership was currently at 230 members. Nelson also alluded to an upcoming new restaurant and new chamber members that he will release more information about soon. In the meantime, Nelson told the chamber that rumors concerning a hibachi restaurant coming to Grayson were true, and the new restaurant will be going in at the location of the old Giovanni’s in Grayson. Nelson told the chamber that the owners of the new restaurant are also the owners of the Hibachi Express food truck that is regularly set up during Memory Days.

In other news, Nelson told chamber members that the chamber was grateful to partner with Kentucky Christian University twice a year for their job fair. The next job fair is scheduled for March 25, Nelson said.

“I still have spots available,” Nelson said. “So, if you would like to take that day from 10 am until 1 pm the table is provided for you for free. The venue can also accommodate electrical needs for those wishing to participate in the job fair.”

“Come and find new employees for your business,” Nelson said. “And if you are not hiring right now, it is still a good opportunity for public relations. You can tell people a little about your business and what you do,” he added.

Students from the business school will be at the fair, Nelson told the members present, as well as students from East and West Carter High Schools.

Nelson also announced that Kentucky Christian University will be partnering with the chamber for the chamber’s annual Chamber Banquet, where the chamber looks at the year in retrospect and also passes out yearly awards. The banquet had been held for the last several years at Carter Caves State Resort Park, Nelson said, and the experience has consistently been amazing.

“We love having the banquet at Carter Caves, and the staff is always amazing,” he said.

The only problem, he said, was that the banquet had grown so much that it had “run out of space.” Nelson said that the event had grown so large that the chamber had been forced to limit the number of interested parties that might want to attend.

“So, we are happy to announce that we will be moving our Chamber Banquet to Kentucky Christian University inside their gymnasium,” he told the members in attendance.

“To do this, we have had to change the day,” Nelson said. “We have always had the banquet in December, but this year we will be moving it up to November. This year’s banquet will be on November 10, and you will be able to purchase your tickets well in advance.”

Nelson said he wanted to thank both Kentucky Christian University and KCU Director of Development Danny Stamper for all their help with the transition of venue.

The chamber also discussed plans for the upcoming Memory Days event. The 2026 Memory Days will celebrate 55 years of the popular event, and Nelson said there was a desire to “do it up right.” Nelson told chamber members that Memory Days planner Michelle Boggs has been hard at work to ensure that this year’s Memory Days will be the best one to date.

“We are expecting thousands of people this year,” Boggs told the chamber. “And we have a lot going on in those four days.”

Boggs said that there will be new things for people to enjoy as well as the return of wonderful live music, headlined by the group Sunday Best. The event will be held May 21 through 24, and the roster continues to grow, Boggs said. For updated information Boggs encourages everyone to visit the event’s Facebook page.

Contact the writer at charles@cartercountytimes.com

Ask Daryl – Your Professional Organizer: You and your fur babies

side view of giving treats to a dog
Photo by Cup of Couple on Pexels.com

By Daryl Ashley

Confusion Solution

Most of us know how to make our pets comfy and happy. However, we don’t think of organizing solutions to truly give them the extra special care they deserve. We give them a place to sleep, food, water, toys, and, for cats, a place for them to enjoy some privacy. But there are so many options for organizing supplies, as well as toys and food.

Here are some tips to make things easier for you to care for your pet.

  • Set up a special place in your home for storing your pet supplies.
  • Transfer dry food and treats from bags into clear plastic sealable containers just like the ones you would use for storing cereal or pasta. This will keep food fresh longer and make it easier to see when your supplies are running low.
  • Use clear plastic trays for small items, like wet food in cans, grooming tools, and dental care.
  • Keep shampoos, flea collars, litter, and sprays on shelves in the same area but not adjacent to food. 
  • Use decorative baskets for toys that compliment your decor and cycle them out to give your pets some variety.
  • Mount hooks near the back or front door for leashes, collars, and rain gear.

Even if you have other pets like, birds, reptiles, or fish, storing their supplies in a manageable location – just for them – makes them safer and easier to access when needed. A few small adjustments can make a big difference in how you care for your pets.

It’s as simple as that!

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

Weekly Arrests: 3/18/26

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.

  • Gary Conley, 59, of Rush, arrested by Kentucky State Police, for failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, arrested and booked March 9.
  • Terry Carter, 51, of Louisville, arrested by Grayson PD, for failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, arrested and booked March 9.
  • David Whitt, 64, of Grayson, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, for failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, arrested and booked March 10.
  • Charles Dunn, 47, of Carlisle, arrested by Nicholas County Sheriff, for failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, arrested and booked March 10.
  • Rex Parsons, 48, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on charges of reckless driving, no or expired registration receipt, no or expired registration plates, improper display of registration plates, failure to maintain required insurance, operating on a suspended or revoked operator’s license, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, failure to surrender revoked operator’s license, and two counts of failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, arrested and booked March 10.
  • David Barnes, 48, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on two counts of failure to appear on a citation for misdemeanor, arrested and booked March 10.
  • Nichlos Collins, 31, of Wheelersburg, OH, arresting agency unavailable, for failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, arrested and booked March 11.
  • Dianna Martin, 25, of Soldier, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on charges of first degree trafficking in narcotics (two or more grams of methamphetamine), trafficking in a controlled substance (heroin), possession of drug paraphernalia, and tampering with physical evidence, arrested and booked March 11.
  • Charles Dunn, 47, of Carlisle, arrested by Nicholas County Sheriff, for failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, arrested and booked March 12.
  • Woodrow Mays, 51, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on two counts of violation of a Kentucky emergency protection order/domestic violence order, arrested and booked March 12.
  • Lynuel Conn, 59, of Grayson, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on charges of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, first degree possession of a controlled substance (fentanyl), convicted felon in possession of a handgun, and first degree possession of a controlled substance (drug unspecified), arrested and booked March 12.
  • Jacob Steagall, 31, of Grayson, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on charges of third degree burglary, receiving stolen property valued at more than $1,000 but less than $10,000, theft by unlawful taking or disposition of items valued at more than $1,000 but less than $10,000, and two counts of contempt of court, arrested and booked March 13.
  • William Perry, 23, of Olive Hill, arrested by Grayson PD, on charges of speeding 5 MPH over limit, possession of an open alcoholic beverage container in a motor vehicle, and operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, arrested and booked March 14.
  • Aaron Dickerson Jr., 33, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on charges of third degree terroristic threatening, and fourth degree assault (domestic violence) with minor injury, arrested and booked March 14.
  • Corey Parker, 38, of South Webster, OH, arrested by Kentucky State Police, for failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, arrested and booked March 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.

Center for Rural Development accepting grant applications for Flex-E Grant program

person using a calculator
Photo by Marina Agrelo on Pexels.com

The Center for Rural Development is accepting grant applications for the 2026 Kentucky Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) mini-grant program.

The mini-grant program (sometimes referred to as the Flex-E-Grant program) is open to qualified local units of government and non-profit entities in Carter County for capacity building planning and implementation projects.

The mini-grant program provides strategic investments in projects that build community capacity to mobilize local resources, gain leadership experience, and strengthen community institutions and networks.

Grants are subject to approval for up to $10,000, require a 20 percent match of total project costs, and are to be completed within a six-month timeframe. Mini-grant funds are available on a reimbursement basis only.

For more information or to download a request for proposal, visit https://centertech.com/arc-mini-grant-flex-e-grant/.

All grant applications and supporting documents must be submitted to The Center for Rural Development by 5 PM (EDT) on April 10, 2026. Digital files are preferred and may be emailed to arc@centertech.com.

Counties within The Center for Rural Development’s primary service area designated as economically distressed by ARC are eligible to apply for the mini-grant program. Eligible counties include Bath, Bell, Breathitt, Carter, Casey, Clay, Clinton, Elliott, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Jackson, Johnson, Knott, Knox, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, McCreary, Menifee, Metcalfe, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Rockcastle, Rowan, Russell, Wayne, Whitley, and Wolfe.

For questions about the application process or program guidelines, please call 606-677-6000 or email jvanthournout@centertech.com.

The Center for Rural Development administers programs funds in partnership with the Kentucky Department for Local Government and the ARC.

Legislative Update from Senator Webb

Before I provide this week’s legislative update, I want to take a moment to recognize the loss of one of our own — Staff Sgt. Benjamin Pennington of Glendale, Kentucky.

At just 26 years old, Pennington made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country. He was stationed at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Epic Fury when the installation came under attack by Iranian drones and missiles on March 1. He was gravely injured during that attack and passed away on March 8. Kentuckians across the commonwealth join our nation in mourning his loss and remembering the sacrifice he made in defense of our freedoms.
Pennington enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2017 and served as a unit supply specialist with the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade at Fort Carson, Colorado. In that role, he supported critical systems that help protect our troops, including missile warning capabilities, GPS positioning and satellite communications. Those who served alongside him described him as a dedicated soldier and a dependable leader who took pride in serving something bigger than himself.
This week, the Kentucky Senate honored Staff Sgt. Pennington’s life and service with the adoption of a Senate resolution. I join many across Kentucky in offering prayers and condolences to his family, friends and fellow soldiers during this difficult time.
Legislative update: Late-session processes to expect
As the General Assembly moves through Week 10 of the 2026 Legislative Session, activity in Frankfort has picked up considerably. With the closing days of the 60-day session now in sight, committee meetings are becoming more frequent and the list of bills being considered on the Senate and House floors continues to grow.
This is also the time of year when many bills begin arriving at the governor’s desk for review. The governor has the authority to veto legislation, but the General Assembly can vote to override those vetoes during the final days of the session. One bill has already been enacted over a veto this year, and it is possible we will see more in the weeks ahead.
The most important work still ahead of us involves finalizing the state’s two-year budget and the two-year road plan. The budget serves as the commonwealth’s roadmap for how taxpayer dollars are invested in priorities like education, infrastructure and public safety.
As a member of the Senate budget committee, I’ve spent many long hours reviewing the details of this proposal alongside my colleagues. That work includes combing through agency requests, evaluating spending priorities and ensuring the plan reflects responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. Crafting a state budget is one of the most complex and time-consuming responsibilities the General Assembly undertakes, and it requires careful attention to every line item.
The Senate is currently reviewing the House version of the budget, House Bill 500, and considering potential changes before sending our version back to the House. Once both chambers weigh in, the bill will likely move to a conference committee where members of the House and Senate work together to iron out the final details before sending the completed plan to the governor.
As always, I appreciate the opportunity to serve and represent our communities. I will continue working to ensure the voices of folks back home are heard as these final decisions are made.
Bills approved in the Senate
With the close of Senate and House proceedings on Friday, just 14 legislative days remain in the 2026 session. The following is an update on legislation approved by the Senate this week.
Additional bills passing this week include the following.
Senate Bill 6: Appropriates $150 million in fiscal year 2027 to the Endowed Research Fund created by Senate Bill 1 in 2024. The fund supports five research consortium accounts administered by the Council on Postsecondary Education to advance collaborative research initiatives across Kentucky.
Senate Bill 19: Designates the indigo milk cap, a mushroom native to Kentucky forests, as the official state mushroom. The proposal was brought forward by students from Letcher County Central High School and is intended to recognize Kentucky’s natural heritage and promote environmental education.
Senate Bill 34: Allows Kentuckians to transfer a home or vehicle directly to a named beneficiary at death without going through probate. Owners retain full control during their lifetime and may change or revoke the designation, with the transfer taking effect only upon death if properly recorded.
Senate Bill 41: Requires most local tax increases that exceed four percent above the compensating rate to be submitted to voters for approval. Local governments may avoid a recall election by lowering the proposed rate within the four-percent threshold.
Senate Bill 53: Clarifies that local planning units, commissions and boards may hold public hearings and accept public comment when reviewing subdivision plats and development plans. The bill reinforces transparency and public participation in local land-use decisions.
Senate Bill 65: Nullifies several administrative regulations deemed deficient by the Administrative Regulation Review Subcommittee. The measure reinforces legislative oversight of agency rulemaking by invalidating rules that lawmakers determined did not properly implement statutory intent.
Senate Bill 66: Updates Kentucky’s impaired driving laws to clarify the consequences of refusing a blood test and to improve enforcement procedures. The bill also expands the list of substances subject to per se DUI prosecutions and aligns record-retention requirements for moving violations.
Senate Bill 77: Creates a framework to support research into ibogaine as a potential treatment for opioid use disorder and other neurological conditions. The bill establishes the Ibogaine Research and Intellectual Property Development Fund and authorizes public-private partnerships to conduct clinical research.
Senate Bill 97: Requires health benefit plans to cover medically necessary prosthetic and orthotic devices and establishes minimum coverage standards. The bill also sets patient notification requirements, network adequacy standards and reporting requirements for insurers.
Senate Bill 100: Strengthens the authority of the Energy Planning and Inventory Commission in evaluating Kentucky’s energy supply and utility decisions. The bill expands the executive director’s access to information and allows the commission to participate more directly in Public Service Commission proceedings.
Senate Bill 116: Updates statutes governing physician assistants to support more efficient collaboration within physician-led care teams. The bill modernizes practice and administrative requirements to help improve health care access, particularly in rural areas.
Senate Bill 133: Updates fiscal reporting and audit requirements for certain local entities. The bill raises reporting thresholds, allows qualified entities to move to longer audit cycles and aligns audit procedures for several local government offices.
Senate Bill 147: Modernizes Kentucky’s vital records laws governing birth and death certificates. The bill clarifies the legal status of certified copies, updates fee structures and strengthens coordination between death records and voter registration maintenance.
Senate Bill 149: Updates statutes governing the office of county treasurer. The bill aligns treasurer appointments with county election cycles and allows fiscal courts to appoint acting or deputy treasurers when necessary.
Senate Bill 198: Updates statutes governing the authority and responsibilities of the Office of the Attorney General. The bill adds federal tax information security requirements, clarifies agency record custody and establishes a 10-year statute of limitations for certain legal actions.
Senate Bill 219: Requires the commissioner of the Department of Financial Institutions to impose a $3 fee on deferred deposit transactions. The fee supports the collection and reporting of required data from licensed deferred deposit service businesses.
Senate Bill 221: Strengthens Kentucky’s abuse of a corpse statute by making it a Class D felony to knowingly buy or sell a corpse or parts of a corpse after final disposition has been authorized. The bill addresses gaps in law exposed by cases involving the illegal sale of human remains.
Senate Bill 222: Updates Kentucky law governing environmental covenants used in environmental remediation projects. The bill clarifies procedures for creating and enforcing land-use restrictions on contaminated properties to support redevelopment.
Senate Bill 224: Establishes statutory protections for vested property rights in development approvals. Planning authorities must evaluate permit applications using the development standards in effect when the application was submitted.
Senate Bill 225: Requires the Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction to evaluate the impact of proposed building code changes on residential construction. The department must conduct cost-benefit analyses and report findings to the General Assembly.
Senate Bill 226: Allows agents guaranteeing prices under preneed burial contracts to charge a one-time administrative fee of up to 15 percent once the contract is fully paid. The fee is exempt from certain refund requirements and applies to contracts entered into after the law takes effect.
Senate Bill 261: Allows fiscal courts and cities to fund the maintenance of pedestrian swinging bridges used for recreation. The bill also provides liability protections for landowners who lease property to local governments for these purposes.
Senate Bill 262: Proposes a constitutional amendment allowing constitutional amendments to appear on ballots as a clear summary or question rather than the full text. The change is intended to make ballot language easier for voters to understand.
Senate Bill 291: Creates a statewide licensing system for secondary metal recyclers to help deter the resale of stolen metal. The bill requires reporting through the LeadsOnline database and strengthens coordination with law enforcement to combat copper theft.
Senate Bill 312: Expands the authority of certified court security officers to transport individuals in custody beyond courthouse grounds. The bill also allows these officers to assist with certain involuntary mental health commitment transports.
Senate Bill 323: Requires subpoenas for medical records to be served at least 14 days before records must be produced. The change provides health care providers adequate time to locate and provide records while supporting orderly court proceedings.
Senate Bill 333: Requires proceeds from the sale of confiscated firearms to be transferred to the Office of the Attorney General. The funds will be used to provide grants to police departments for the purchase of body armor.
Senate Bill 343: Reorganizes the Department of Workers’ Claims by moving it under the Office of the Governor. The bill establishes leadership qualifications and transfers all related staff and resources as part of the restructuring.
Senate Concurrent Resolution 66: Encourages the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville to explore participation in federal nuclear energy programs. The resolution also urges expansion of academic programs in nuclear science and engineering.
Senate Joint Resolution 62: Directs the Division of Water to prepare a report outlining the permitting process for debris removal from waterways following flooding. The report will also include recommendations for improving cleanup coordination and efficiency.
Senate Joint Resolution 75: Directs the Public Service Commission to study ways to improve the affordability of utility services, particularly for low-income households. The commission must report findings and recommendations to the General Assembly by Sept. 1, 2027.
Senate Joint Resolution 116: Directs Kentucky’s public universities to collaborate on solutions to address the state’s physician shortage. The effort will produce recommendations for expanding health care access in underserved areas.
Senate Joint Resolution 134: Directs the Public Service Commission to review how utilities calculate fuel adjustment charges on customer bills. The commission must gather public input, evaluate ways to reduce volatility and report recommendations to the General Assembly.
House Bill 314: Modernizes oversight of the KentuckyWired broadband network by placing management under the Commonwealth Office of Technology. The bill expands board representation and took effect immediately after the legislature overrode the governor’s veto.
It’s an honor to represent you in Frankfort.  I look forward to continuing my dedication to Boyd, Carter, Greenup, and Lewis counties while representing my fellow communities in District 18.  If you have any questions, comments or concerns, you can always contact me at 502-564-8100 or by email at Robin.Webb@kylegislature.gov.
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Sen. Robin Webb, R-Grayson, represents the 18th Senate District, which includes Boyd, Carter, Greenup, and Lewis Counties. She served as co-chair of the Disaster Prevention and Resiliency Task Force in 2025. Webb is a member of the Senate Committees on Agriculture; Appropriations and Revenue; Natural Resources and Energy; and Families and Children. She also serves as a liaison member of the Budget Review Subcommittee on Justice and Judiciary.
For a high-resolution JPEG file of Webb, please visit https://legislature.ky.gov/Legislators Full Res Images/senate118.jpg 

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Linda Wilson Harper

Linda Wilson Harper, age 82, of Grayson, Kentucky, passed away Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Community Hospice Care Center in Ashland, Kentucky.

She was born Monday, June 28, 1943, in Carter County, Kentucky, a daughter of the late Herbert Lee and Velva Phillips Wilson.

Linda enjoyed gardening, flowers, mowing grass, canning, cooking for her family and caring for Gary and her family.

Linda is survived by her loving husband of nearly 35 years, Earnest Gary Harper; two daughters, Deadrea (Chuck) Oney, Tammy (David) Skinner, all of Olive Hill, Kentucky; one son, Garry Allen (Karen) Harper of West Liberty, Kentucky; five grandchildren, Justin (Allison) Oney, Ryan (Madison) Buckler, Ashley Jones, Cody (Morgan) Harper, Cory (Sadie) Harper; four great-grandchildren, Callie Roth, Addison Oney, Cadence Straka, Myleigh Buckler, John Henry Harper; one brother, Bill (Barb) Wilson of Olive Hill, Kentucky; one sister, Phyllis Ann Berry of Grayson, Kentucky, along with many other family and friends who will sadly miss her.

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Barker Cemetery, on Mauk Ridge in Elliott County, Kentucky, with Brother Elijah Wagoner officiating.

Justin Oney, Chuck Oney, Garry Allen Harper, David Skinner, Ryan Buckler and Callie Roth will serve as pallbearers.

Globe Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the family of Linda Wilson Harper.

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