Extension Notes: Farmland Sales and Taxes

March 4, 2026

young cow in a field in uruguay — Photo by Sergio Arteaga on Pexels.com

By: Rebecca Konopka
Carter County Extension Agent

Generally, the sale of farmland triggers taxes in the year of the sale. Disregarding any depreciable items that are part of the sale, the tax treatment is long-term capital gains. That is assuming the property has been held at least one year. The capital gain is calculated based on the sale price minus the adjusted basis of the property. The adjusted basis is the amount paid for the land (or the value when inherited) minus any depreciation taken on improvements. Federal capital gains rates are currently 0%, 15%, or 20% depending on taxable income level. State and local taxes will also be owed on the gain depending on location.

One strategy to defer the capital gain tax is use of a 1031 like-kind exchange. A 1031 like-kind exchange allows landowners selling their property to reinvest in replacement property that is similar in nature. There are specific rules associated with a like-kind exchange. First, there is a 45-day window to identify the replacement property after the sale of the old property. Second, the new property must be acquired within 180 days of the sale. Third, a qualified intermediary must hold all the funds of the transaction. In other words, the landowner selling the old property cannot take possession of the money. Lastly, if the exchange of property includes related parties, then both parties must hold their respective properties at least two years to avoid triggering tax consequences.

As part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) of 2025, there is an option to spread out the taxes owed as part of selling farmland. The new option is referred to as IRC Section 1062. It applies to any farmland sales after July 4, 2025. The election allows a landowner to pay the federal taxes owed in four equal annual installments instead of one year. The land must be in the United States. It must have been in farm use 10 years prior to the sale. In addition, the buyer must be actively engaged in farming. There will need to be a restrictive covenant that legally enforces the use of the land for farming purposes for 10 years. The covenant would need to be attached to the tax return in the year of sale when the election is made. The first installment is due at the original due date of the tax return for the year of sales. The remainder is due with the following three tax returns. If any payments are missed the remaining tax becomes due immediately.

Lastly, there is a Kentucky tax credit available called the Kentucky Selling Farmer Tax Credit. It allows for an income tax credit of up to 5% of the sale price of qualifying agricultural assets, subject to annual and lifetime tax credit caps. The sale must be to eligible buyers who will continue using the land for farming purposes. Sales involving immediate family members do not qualify for the credit. There are applications that must be filed from both the seller and the buyer to qualify for the credit. These can be found at the Kentucky Selling Farmer Tax Credit (KSFTC) Program website at https://newkentuckyhome.ky.gov/entrepreneurship/KSFTC.

If a landowner is considering selling their farm property, it is recommended they contact their tax advisor and/or attorney before the sale takes place.

This article was written by Suzy Martin, KFBM Area Extension Specialist, for the University of Kentucky Department of Agricultural Economics newsletter published on January 28, 2026. 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:

Extension Council & District Board Meeting –March 10^th @ 10:00 AM
Honey Bee Education Day – March 12^th from 9:00-2:00; Call 474-6686 to register.
Farmer’s Market Vendor Training & Annual Business Meeting – March 17^th; Executive committee meets at 5:30 and vendor training starts at 6:30.

Is the GOP trying another end run on public funds for private schools?

March 4, 2026

desks and chairs in classroom — Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

By: Keith Kappes
Columnist
Carter County Times

Like it or not, the ghosts of white supremacy are alive and well in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Two times the Republican supermajority in the Kentucky General Assembly passed laws to allow public funds to be used to help fund private schools and both times our courts threw the laws out as unconstitutional because our state constitution says public funds can only go to the “common” schools of the Commonwealth.

Then it was proposed as a constitutional amendment and Kentucky voters rejected it soundly in all 120 counties.

Perhaps acting on the advice and encouragement of the White House, the GOP leadership in the General Assembly embraced House Bill 1 to take advantage of a new federal tax-credit scholarship program. The legislation literally flew through both houses of the legislature and has been sent to the governor’s desk.

If Gov. Andy Beshear vetoes HB 1, the six Democrats left in the Senate and the 20 survivors in the House will look on helplessly as their GOP colleagues quickly override the veto.

HB 1 would make Kentucky eligible to participate in the qualified elementary and secondary education scholarship federal tax credit program established in House Resolution 1, which passed the U.S. Congress last year.

The legislation grants Kentucky’s Secretary of State, pointedly not our Democratic governor, the authority to opt into the program on behalf of the state. Participants would receive a federal tax credit of up to $1,700 for donations made to Kentucky scholarship granting organizations (SGOs).

The bill sponsor described the legislation as a dollar-for-dollar credit. In essence, a tax dollar owed to the feds would give taxpayers the choice of sending that dollar to Washington or to a “scholarship granting organization” here in Kentucky. It was claimed that no state funds would be involved in the programs.

Sen. Robin L. Webb, R-Grayson, explained her “yes” vote by saying she would monitor how any increased funding is used in the state to ensure the bill achieves its intended effect in improving education.

We hope she is successful, but we won’t be surprised if and when the authorized-but-yet-to-be-funded charter schools siphon off good students and state monies from our existing, underfunded public schools.

Contact Keith at keithkappes@gmail.com.

Martin to the Mountains

March 4, 2026

3-4 Wyatt Martin — (Photo by Brayleigh Boggs, Carter County Times)

By Brayleigh Boggs

Carter County Times

Wyatt Martin’s path to becoming one of the most decorated specialists in West Carter football history started in his front yard at age seven.

“My dad,” Martin said when asked what first made him want to become a kicker. “He started me at age seven.”

Martin, a senior at West Carter High School, signed to continue his football career at the University of Pikeville. He leaves West Carter holding the school records for most career points by a kicker and the longest field goal in a career.

Kicking runs in the family. Martin’s father was a college kicker at West Virginia State University and later pursued a career in law enforcement. Martin plans to follow a similar path. He will major in criminal justice at Pikeville and hopes to join the Kentucky State Police.

“I want to go down the state police path, like my dad did,” Martin said.

But that’s the future. When looking back at his time on the field, Martin said, one moment stands above the rest. On senior night, Martin drilled a 32-yard game-winning field goal against Rowan County.

“That was definitely my most memorable moment,” he mentioned.

West Carter coach Daniel Barker said Martin’s work ethic set him apart from the beginning.

“From the time we got Wyatt, he’s always been so hardworking,” Barker said. “He’s always been very serious about kicking. Wyatt’s the kind of kid you have to slow down, or he will kick all day, and I’ve always appreciated that about him.”

Martin said his father has been the most influential person in his football journey.

“Definitely my dad,” Martin said. “He started working with me at age seven in our front yard, just kicking footballs over top of a soccer net. Mainly my dad, but also Coach Barker, for always motivating me, stopping me when I was over-kicking.”

His recruitment process began before his junior season. After a strong sophomore year, Martin posted his highlights on social media and quickly gained attention.

“Going into my junior year, I had a good sophomore season,” he said. “I posted my highlights on Twitter, and had a coach reach out inviting me to a camp. After that, I was never off Twitter. I am so thankful for all the opportunities I had during high school. A lot of high schools don’t use kickers to their full potential, but I’m very grateful to be used the way I was.”

When Pikeville extended an opportunity, Martin said the decision felt right.

“I was so excited,” he said. “I love their facilities. It was everything I wanted that wasn’t super far from home.”

Barker said finding the right fit was important.

“When he started looking for places to play in college, we wanted to find a place that was not only a good school, but a good team fit,” Barker said. “We think he can earn a spot at Upike and become a kicker, and we expect really great things out of him.”

“Not many people in the last few years have gotten the opportunity to play,” Martin said. “Not only that, but I am also the only kicker from West Carter ever to go play college football.”

Coming from a small town, Martin said the recruiting process required persistence.

“It’s hard to get recruited,” he said.

But you can’t let how hard something is deter you from pursuing it. That’s the advice Martin would give other young athletes.

“Don’t give up,” he said. “When I moved here my eighth-grade year, I went to practice for a few weeks and kicked some, and I wanted to quit within three weeks. Now I realize if I did that, I wouldn’t be where I am now.”

(Contact the writer at news@cartercountytimes.com)

Lions hold off Comets’ comeback effort

March 4, 2026

3-4 West vs Elliott — (Photo by Brayleigh Boggs, Carter County Times)

By Brayleigh Boggs

Carter County Times

West Carter fought for every point in the first round of the 62nd District Tournament. But despite their efforts, the Elliott County Lions held on to their double-digit lead to secure their place in the championship game, defeating the Comets 63-46

Even with multiple comeback chances and three players in double digits, the offensive power of Elliott’s Tyson Crabtree (00), Elijah Faulkner (5), Lake Adkins (21), and Ian Griffith (23) proved to be too much for the Comets to handle.

Senior Nate Hale (24) opened the game with a tone-setting layup under pressure. Elliott wasted no time responding with a pair of their own from Ethan Copley (24). Hale (24) fired back, making it 4-2 Comets early into the first. The Lions clawed back with an and one from Ian Griffith (23). The comets kept the offensive pressure heavy with free throws from Nate Webb (33). Elijah Faulkner (5) made his mark on the stat sheet with a long three and a layup, sending Elliott into a scoring frenzy. Coach Webb called a timeout to settle the Comets, who trailed 12-6.

Elliott’s Faulkner (5) and Copley (24) added six to the scoreboard before the Comets fired back in the paint and on the line. As the buzzer sounded, Elliott took the first quarter 18-9. Crabtree (00) worked the post and the board to steadily raise the Lions’ lead. The senior brought home six points and three rebounds within 90 seconds of the second quarter. Cannan Arrowood (3) followed with his own basket, separating them by 15 points.

Wade Lawson (32) snagged a steal, and Nate Webb (33) finally saw some potential for the Comets. Hale (24) pulled up for a long three, and the West team finally got the kick start they needed. With one minute remaining in the half, Elliott regained their spark with a triple by Arrowood (3) and a steal that locked in the halftime score at 32-18 Lions.

Hale (24) opened the second half strong, powering through pressure to get the Comets going early. Webb (33) kept the fire going with a three of his own. Adkins (21) and Griffith (23) responded for the Lions, keeping their lead strong. West Carter refused to give up, Brody Boggs (14) and Hale (24) fought for every opportunity at the basket, and Tabor Tackett (53) was relentless on defense. Crabtree (00) added an and one but was countered by a contested shot from Webb (33). Hale (24) forced a turnover from the Lions, but their momentum was short-lived. Caden Sloas (11) sank a three-pointer for Elliott, and Copley (24) locked down the Comets’ offense. Sending them to their bench with a 47-32 lead.

Christian Clarke (0) and Boggs (24) hit the ground running to begin the final quarter, bringing in eight within a matter of minutes. Jamison Wagoner (31) pulled down an offensive rebound for the Comets, and Boggs (14) cut the deficit to ten at the line. Arrowood (3) stepped up to the line, where he finished two. Tackett (53) checked back in for the Comets and made his presence known, causing chaos defensively. Hale (24) powered through the lane for a hard-fought basket, but Elliott responded with one of their own. Griffith (23) and Copley (24) were unshakable at the line, stretching their lead to 13. A technical foul and four free throws by Griffith (23) sealed the Lions’ victory. As time expired, the clock read 63-46, locking in Elliott’s seat in the 62nd District Tournament Championship last Friday (February 27) at East Carter High School.

Contact the writer at news@cartercountytimes.com

Improving creative endeavors

March 4, 2026

By: Charles Romans
Carter County Times

Amanda Lewis has a vision of bringing together creative people from across the region while preserving our regional folk traditions. Lewis started the non-profit Trillium Project with the express purpose of making it easier for these creative individuals to create. Lewis is building what she calls a “Creative Campus,” or a Maker and Workforce Hub for the tri-state area. The goal is to bring together artists, craftsmen, and the keepers of Appalachian traditions and help them do what they do best.

The Trillium Project is designed to help, among others, creators who want paid opportunities to teach their crafts to those who wish to learn them. Lewis wants to give creators access to makers markets and exhibitions, provide a shared fabrication infrastructure, and encourage apprenticeship partnerships and opportunities. And in the process Trillium hopes to foster expanded tourism visibility and small business growth support for creative businesses.

“We’re specifically calling for makers in Boyd, Carter, and Greenup Counties, so we can map a regional maker ecosystem and better understand what support local makers actually need to make a living on their craft,” Lewis said of her goals and how she hopes to impact the region.

“I founded an arts and culture nonprofit in Southern Ohio in 2020,” Lewis continued. “And our primary focus has been creative place making projects that give local artists paid opportunities to do their crafts and stay here and make a living doing it. We have been doing that for the last six years, and now we are moving into the next phase of development.”

That next phase is a capital project, Lewis said. And as part of that project, she is trying to connect with all of the makers and creators in the area, not just in southern Ohio. Currently Lewis is located in Portsmouth, Ohio, but she said Trillium operates remotely rather than having a brick-and-mortar facility. The capital project will be headquartered in Portsmouth, she said, but her focus will be the entire region.

The campus Lewis is working on building is intended to be what she calls multi-disciplinary.

“It will have space for artists in the traditional sense like painters and print makers,” Lewis said. “But we are also looking at building out spaces for things like blacksmithing, stained glass making, and basket weaving. We want to codesign a campus that’s not just for the traditional workshops but also where we can train people locally in creative enterprise so they can, if they are so inclined, open creative businesses.”

One creative business Lewis used for an example was a business making and frames such as those for paintings and prints.

“We don’t really have a business like that locally,” Lewis said. “If you want a picture framed then you have to go to a big store such as Hobby Lobby. But we want to be able to create pathways for individuals who might be interested in doing something like that and build small businesses around that.”

Lewis said the campus is going to serve as a regional revitalization model and will impact the entire region.

“We have partnerships in multiple states,” she said.

West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky are all represented, Lewis said, and the hope is that by codeveloping workforce pathways with regional makers she will be able to begin supporting smaller rural communities.

Currently Trillium has half a dozen local partnerships, including FIVCO.

“They (FIVCO) are working with us and have agreed to guide us with the workforce pathways for individuals in Kentucky,” Lewis said.

Lewis also has partners in Portsmouth and the Scioto Visitors Bureau.

“We have also spoken with Shawnee State University about developing some micro credentialing programs,” Lewis said.

On the horizon for the Trillium Project is an event called A Gathering of Appalachian Makers that will be held on March 24, 2026, at the Shawnee State University Kricker Innovation Hub, located at 221 Chillicothe Street in Portsmouth, Ohio, from 5 to 8 pm. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to RSVP by March 18.

“This is the first of several gatherings we are planning,” Lewis said.

She said the plan over the next nine months is to have numerous events in West Virginia and Kentucky. Creatives and makers are encouraged to visit their website, email the Trillium project, or even call 740-352-4498 to discover the possibilities available to makers and craftsmen.

More information on The Trillium Project can be found at http://www.trillium-project.org/thehollow.

Contact the writer at charles@cartercountytimes.com

Joyful Noise: When to shut up!

March 4, 2026

girl in white crew neck shirt smiling — Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

By Pastor Naomi Mitchell

For Carter County Times

Growing up we heard the old saying, “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Well, we all know that is a lie. Words are powerful and can hurt longer than a broken bone.

Have you ever wished you hadn’t said certain things? Have you said something that made you feel like you had put your foot in your mouth? Something you said really hurt someone’s feelings? Maybe you told something about someone that destroyed a good friendship? You assumed something when you didn’t know all the facts? We wished we could eat our words when this happens, but once they are out there, they can’t be taken back. Proverbs 21:23 says, “Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue, keepeth his soul from trouble.”

Scripture tells us a lot about our “mouth” that life and death are in the power of the tongue. We make the choice to say things we know we shouldn’t and wouldn’t want someone to say about us. Gossip is cheap and not becoming on a mature Christian or anyone for that matter.

Here are some scriptures to look up in the Bible that basically tells us what we need to pay attention to when it comes to keeping our mouth shut.

Keeping your mouth shut: In the heat of anger – Proverbs14:17. When you don’t have all the facts – Proverbs 18:13. When you haven’t verified the story – Deuteronomy 17:6. If your words will offend a weaker brother – 1 Corinthians 8:12. If your words will be a poor reflection of the Lord to your family or friends, neighbors and co-workers – 1 Peter 2:21-23. When you are tempted to make light of holy things – Ecclesiastes 9:2. When you are tempted to joke about sin – Proverbs 14:9. If you would be ashamed of your words later – Proverbs 8:8. If your words would convey a wrong impression – Proverbs 17:27. If the issue is none of your business – Proverbs 14:10. When you are tempted to tell an outright lie – Proverbs 4:24. If your words will damage someone’s reputation – Proverbs 16:27. If your words would destroy a friendship – Proverbs 16:28. When you are feeling critical – James 3:9. If you can’t speak without yelling – Proverbs 25:28. When it is time to listen – Proverbs 13:1. If you may have to eat your words later – Proverbs 18:21. If you have already said it more than one time then it becomes nagging – Proverbs 19:13. When you are tempted to flatter a wicked person – Proverbs 24:24. When you are supposed to be working instead of talking – Proverbs 14:23.

Practice and pray Psalms 19:14, “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.” Think before you speak! Will the words you speak be acceptable to the Lord?

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.

AS WE SEE IT: Quiet complicity

March 4, 2026

photo of empty class room — Photo by Diana ✨ on Pexels.com

Last week the Kentucky Association of School Administrators released a statement noting that they are “taking a clear and unequivocal stand: grooming and sexual abuse of students will not be tolerated in Kentucky’s public schools.”

Despite bold statements like this, however, as we look around at both local and national news it’s obvious that our society is not doing enough to protect this most vulnerable segment of our population. Or to hold those who take advantage of that vulnerability accountable for their actions.

It’s there in the Epstein Files.

It’s there in the coverage of the Greenup County special education aide who was released on bond only to victimize another minor in Carter County.

And though some of those folks eventually go to jail – at least for a while – and have their day in court, too many more slip through the cracks with nothing more than a lost job and a gap in their resume. They’re quietly let go and allowed to go about their lives. No accountability. No therapy or intervention. No justice.

And the media is often complicit.

We live in a litigious society. One where you can be sued for anything – even if you did nothing wrong. Even if you have the documentation to back up and verify the claims you make. It happened to the Carter County Times last year, when we were alerted that a plaintiff was attempting to serve us for coverage of allegations of sexual impropriety involving patients at a regional hospital. Everything we reported was backed up by documentation from the hospital and the medical board and, ultimately, our attorneys were able to get them to drop the suit against us because our coverage was accurate, and protected by state law.

But even the potential of such lawsuits can make editors and publishers, especially those at corporate owned papers, nervous. As an example, several years ago, when covering one of the most egregious and, frankly, insane cases of sexual grooming and assault I’ve ever read about, I received a quote from the Commonwealth’s attorney who agreed to accept an Alford plea from the defendant in the case. (An Alford plea allows a defendant to plead guilty while maintaining their innocence, but acknowledging that the preponderance of evidence would likely lead to a conviction in a jury trial.) The quote from the attorney – which to this day I contend should have been the front page pull quote – was, “There are some things that are evil, and immoral, but aren’t technically illegal.” But instead of being placed in a box on the front page to tease the story, the quote was cut entirely by my editor, who was worried about any potential litigation.

It didn’t change the objective facts in the story. But it sure changed the tone. And though that story was released, because there was a court case and a verdict, there are other stories we hear about as news media that never see publication. Usually because of built in bureaucracy that – like the policies my editor was following – are designed to protect the institutions involved from a lawsuit. Policies that keep us from accessing documentation that would verify the stories we’ve heard.

As a hypothetical, imagine that someone who works with children in Carter County had an inappropriate relationship with a student. In this hypothetical situation the student in question is 18. Because of their age, no criminal charges are filed against the perpetrator. But because they have engaged in a serious breach of professional ethics they are let go by their employer. The newspaper hears about this story from a concerned parent, who wishes to remain anonymous, and we follow up. A contact within the school district confirms the story, also under anonymity, but is unable to verify the name of the individuals involved. The newspaper, though, now has the name of the alleged perpetrator, and confirmation that they were let go for the reasons indicated. We now go to the employer with the name, and questions about their dismissal. But, because dismissals are a personnel issue, the employer isn’t legally allowed to discuss them. The employee records are considered privileged information, and thus are protected from public scrutiny.

In this situation, the story dies. We can’t run a story based on nothing but rumor and hearsay. Even if we believe it, even if we’ve had it confirmed “off record” and anonymously, we need documentation to verify. That’s part of our ethical duty as responsible journalists. If we can’t back it up with documentation, we aren’t a news source, we’re a gossip rag.

But we’re also complicit. The newspaper. The employer. The society that allows these forms of legal obfuscation. Whenever we don’t allow coverage of a story, or leave out pertinent information, out of fear of litigation, we’re complicit.

And we all need to do better.

Cougars come out on top

March 4, 2026

3-4 East Girls — (Photo by Brayleigh Boggs, Carter County Times)

By Brayleigh Boggs

Carter County Times

The East Carter Lady Raiders and the Morgan County Lady Cougars faced off in a highly anticipated rematch of the 2025 62nd District Championship at the Harold L. Holbrook Athletic Complex. In a tightly contested battle, Morgan County came out on top, defeating East Carter 53–50 to bring home the hardware.

One year after falling just short on the same stage, Morgan County proved why experience and composure matter in championship moments. In a game that featured multiple lead changes, clutch three-pointers, and defensive stops down the stretch, the Lady Cougars leaned on timely shooting and poise in the final minute to secure victory over East Carter and claim the 2026 62nd District title.

Morgan’s Lily Litteral (33) got the Cougars on the board early. The Lady Raiders responded quickly with a three from Bristol Boggs (1), who followed up with a steal moments later. Jocie Rudd (10) added her own triple to the mix, but Sara Jenkins (3) wasted no time adding her own to the score sheet. Rudd (10) went 2-2 outside the arch and added another basket from inside, giving East a steady lead early in the first quarter. Brynlee Walker (24) muscled through pressure for her first points of the night. Litteral (33) cut the deficit to three just before Coach Derrik Young called his team to the sideline to regroup.

Sophomore Jenna Goble (20) and Boggs (1) held the Cougars scoreless, picking up multiple rebounds. Abby Boggs (5) bought home a triple just as time expired to end the first quarter, 19-12 in the Lady Raiders favor. Boggs (5) seemed unbeatable defensively, with multiple steals and a possession-ending block from Walker (24). Tori Bishop (21) drove into the lane to give the Raiders a double-digit lead. Litteral (33) revived the Cougars, posting up under pressure. Jenkins’ (3) and-one jumper put Morgan back in the game. Emma Clinger (11) had the last shot of the half, keeping the ball game within five.

Litteral (33) opened the second half for the Cougars. Boggs (1) added with two free throws, and Walker (24) followed in the paint. Clinger (11) stayed consistent for Morgan, but Hall (4) never made it easy with strong defensive pressure. Bishop sent the ball downcourt to Rudd, who grabbed two in transition. Soon, Clinger (11) fired back with one of her own. Bishop (21) scooped up an and-one, just before Boggs (5) snagged a steal. KK Halsey (1) and Litteral (33) combined to give the Cougars a one-point lead going into the final eight minutes of the match.

Bishop (21) knocked down a floater but was matched by Bella Smith’s (13) long three-pointer. Boggs (1) hit Hall (4) backdoor to put East back on top. Rudd (10) hit a clutch three, but Morgan quickly evened the playing field. The Raiders trailed by two with under a minute remaining. Walker (24) tied it up once again. Jenkins (3) added three for the Cougars. With 29 seconds remaining, the Raiders regained possession. Even with multiple last-second attempts, the Lady Raiders could not connect and fell short. Morgan County finished 53-50 over East Carter, officially naming them the 2026 62nd District Champions.

Contact the writer at news@cartercountytimes.com

Raiders fall short

March 4, 2026

3-4 East Boys — (Photo by Brayleigh Boggs, Carter County Times)

(Photo by Brayleigh Boggs, Carter County Times)

By Brayleigh Boggs

Carter County Times

It was a back-and-forth battle between East Carter and Morgan County for a spot in the 62nd District Championship game. The Cougars came out on top in a 74-70 win that kept every fan on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer.

A senior-led East Carter team fell short, but not without a fight. The loss ends the Raiders’ season and sent Morgan County on to the 62nd District Championship Game on February 27, where they played Elliott County to defend their title.

East Carter’s Thomas Burton (1) opened the scoring for the Raiders, but was quickly countered by a sneaky backdoor pass to Morgan’s Asher Gamble (11). Eli Bradley (4) knocked down two free throws to get the Cougars a steady 4-2 lead. Colton McGuire (12) wasted no time, hitting back-to-back three’s and firing up the Raiders for their first lead of the night. Grant Menix (10) followed with a steal and an offensive foul, keeping the game in their control.

Morgan County’s Aiden Barker (1) and Parker Trusty (2) combined for 4 points to cut their deficit to 2. Freshman Max Karle (11) responded with a contested three, but Morgan followed with their own set of points. McGuire (12) hit another three for the Raiders, and Menix (10) added his own as the buzzer sounded to end the first quarter, with the score 21-16 Raiders.

The Cougars started the second quarter with a contested layup. Caden Tussey (15) seemed unstoppable, driving into the lane, scooping up back-to-back shots for East Carter. Trusty (2) brought life back to the Cougar sideline with a long three-pointer. Grayson Hampton (3) and Barker (1) tied the game at 25. After a timeout to settle both teams, McGuire (12) came in hot with multiple three-pointers in pressure situations, followed by Burton (5) and Tussey (15), but Morgan responded with their own shots. The score was 35-33, Morgan with 34.9 seconds remaining in the half. Hampton (3) cut backdoor to close out the half, with the clock reading 37-33 in favor of the Cougars.

Tussey (15) started the second half with a tough drive to the lane for two points. Trusty (2) made a statement with a three-pointer, surrounded by a host of Raiders. William Burton (5) and McGuire (12) responded with triples of their own. Gamble (11) created multiple scoring chances for the Cougars, including a three-pointer that brought Morgan’s lead to six. Menix (10) came through with three clutch free throws, but Morgan wasn’t ready to relinquish their lead. Morgan’s Gamble (11) and Bradley (3) led a 9-0 run for the Cougars, which included Bradley’s half-court shot as the buzzer sounded to end the third quarter. Morgan maintained a 60-48 lead heading into the final quarter.

McGuire (12) battled in the paint for a putback jumper. Barker (1) responded with four points of his own. Thomas Burton (1) fought for an and-one, and then some, at the free throw line. Morgan kept a ten-point lead with 2:31 remaining.

With 57.1 seconds remaining, Coach Cole Brammer called a timeout, trying to close the ten-point gap Morgan had built. The Burton brothers left it all on the court in the last 15 seconds, causing chaos on both ends. Tussey’s (15) last-second efforts kept them within six, but it was not enough. Morgan County sealed their spot in the 62nd District Championship Game on February 27th with a final score of 74-70.

Contact the writer at news@cartercountytimes.com

Years of Farming Bluegrass Show welcomes Don Rigsby & the Fly By Knights

March 4, 2026

FLEMINGSBURG – Years of Farming is excited to welcome Don Rigsby & Fly By Knights to Years of Farming on Sunday, March 8, at 2 pm at Double S Entertainment, 150 Foster Street, Flemingsburg. The Mountain Music Ambassadors will open. This will be our 118th show! Tickets are $20, available in advance or at the door. Children 12 and under accompanied by an adult are admitted free. Attendees will have the chance to win door-prizes provided by our sponsors including two tickets to the March 29 show featuring Danny Paisley and Southern Grass.

Don Rigsby has been involved in bluegrass most of his life, learning to sing Ralph Stanley songs at the age of five. The very epitome of a bluegrass sideman, he has been a member of the Bluegrass Cardinals, Lonesome River Band, Longview, J.D. Crowe & The New South and is currently a member of Balsam Range and Southern Legacy besides his own band the Fly By Knights. As a solo artist and bandleader, he has seven albums to his credit and has appeared on countless projects as a session player and singer. Rigsby was director at Kentucky Center for Traditional Music at MSU for several years. He has lived a musical life most only dream about with too many accolades to share so be sure to check out his bio online. Rigsby still lives in Isonville and more important to him than his career are his children Sarah and Andrew. The Fly By Knights also includes Caleb Daugherty on guitar and vocals, Caleb Smith on banjo and vocals and Tim Corbett on upright bass.

The Mountain Music Ambassadors is the flagship touring ensemble for the Kentucky Center for Traditional Music at Morehead State University, featuring students majoring in traditional music. The ensemble has entertained audiences across the United States and internationally, as far away as the People’s Republic of China and Ireland. Other notable performances include the historic Carter Family Fold, Industrial Strength Bluegrass Festival, IBMA’s Wide Open Bluegrass Festival, the internationally syndicated Woodsongs Old Time Radio Hour and Song of the Mountains on PBS. Daxson Lewis and Ruth McLain Smith direct the group.

We hope you will join us at Years of Farming for an afternoon of awesome bluegrass music. It is a terrific opportunity to see this caliber of artists in our area. If you are not familiar with any of our bands, whether a feature band or an opening band, check their websites and/or YouTube for some of their music and history and you will want to attend! Keep checking our website www.yearsoffarming.com for updates on our schedule. Tickets are available on our website or at the door. For more information contact Paula Hinton at (606) 748-0798 or paulahinton2000@yahoo.com.

The sin of waste and the right to repair

March 4, 2026

a hand fixing an electronic device using screwdriver — Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.com

By Robert Dean
Guest Columnist

It’s been a long few days in a long year that’s only three months in. The mass shooting in Austin, the bombing of Iran, the endless argument about whose AI is going to save or destroy us. I want to tap dance on all of it with jokes about how Trump is an infected elephant stomach in a miraculous human body, but I’m not here for that this week.

I’m here to talk about waste.

My Irish grandmother used to say wasting is a sin. She grew up with nothing, so she meant it the way people mean things when they’ve had to. I think about that a lot. I think about it every time I finish a bottle of bodywash and pitch it in the trash, knowing that bottle will be in a landfill long after everyone I love is dead.

My girlfriend’s Converse are falling apart. She was about to throw them away when a tube of superglue would do the trick. Why is it always our first instinct to discard instead of repair? Maybe because that instinct has been engineered into us.

In 1932, real estate broker Bernard London wrote, “We must induce people to buy more and more.” Nearly a century later, the logic hasn’t changed. It’s just been lawyered up. When pressed on right-to-repair legislation, Apple has said that repairs are best left to trained technicians using genuine Apple parts. Safety. Reliability. Innovation. All very clean words that somehow always end with you buying another sealed box instead of fixing the one you already own.

I have a guy named Dave who works on old analog equipment, record players, cigarette machines, jukeboxes. I own a 1954 Rockola I inherited and when it needs a tune-up, I have to haul the thing across town because Dave is in his seventies and doesn’t make house calls. He is, as far as I can tell, one of the last people in town who knows how to do what he does. When Dave’s gone, that knowledge goes with him. What happened to the culture of the working class repairman? We traded it for the culture of the upgrade.

This MacBook Pro I’m writing on costs $3,500. It’s a 2019. Guess who’s getting a new battery instead of a new computer? I’m not replacing this machine until it’s as dead as John Dillinger.

Recycling at scale is largely a myth. We rarely turn old stuff into new stuff in any meaningful way. A significant portion of what Americans dutifully sort into blue bins ends up shipped to India, Africa, or China, because that’s how the economics of guilt work. Out of sight, out of conscience.

The food waste numbers are staggering. The USDA estimates 30 to 40 percent of the American food supply gets thrown away. Meanwhile fast food joints, grocery chains, and big box stores pitch perfectly edible food because liability lawyers said so, or because the date on the package turned, or because the season changed and nobody wants last fall’s lipstick shade. My grandmother would have called that a sin. She would have been correct.

We’ve constructed this villainous economy that depends on disposal. The product isn’t the thing you buy. The product is the need to keep buying, to keep consuming, to devour and line the pockets of those who make at scale. And we’ve accepted it so completely that repair feels like eccentricity, like something only stubborn old men and broke college kids do.

Maybe we should all be a little more stubborn. Maybe we should pick up the superglue.

Contact us at news@cartercountytimes.

Ask Daryl – Your Professional Organizer: It’s about time

March 4, 2026

glass jars on kitchen counter top — Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

By Daryl Ashley

Confusion Solution

We intend on clearing out a closet or organizing our kitchen and then we put it off. Why? Simply because we have too many other things that need to be taken care of and an absence of time.

It isn’t laziness or lack of desire, it’s that it isn’t a part of our priorities. So, how do we accomplish those tasks while juggling our other responsibilities? Here are some tips that will help give you permission to adjust your routine.

Make a list of what you have to do on a daily basis and a separate list of the things you would like to do to bring order to your living space and to your routine.
Really delve deep to determine the time you spend on each of your daily activities, and then determine the time you can spend on new tasks. Make sure you include time for yourself. This is extremely important to avoid burn-out.
Then place the list of things you would like to organize in order by project. Estimate the time it might take to work on those projects.
Compare the time you spend on your daily activities with the time it would take you to accomplish one other goal.
Incorporate one new task into your normal routine. Keep in mind that things may change, which is to be expected. So, don’t put too much into your schedule, just in case. Then when things do change, you can pick up where you left off on another day.

Being organized starts with planning which, in turn, becomes part of your routine and once accomplished will eventually fall off your schedule. Getting started is the hardest part and making a list will bring to light how you are really investing your time. Allow a few minutes to make a list.

It’s as simple as that!

Weekly Arrests: 3/4/26

March 4, 2026

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.

Douglas Claxon, 35, of Olive Hill, arrested by Grayson PD, on charges of failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, trafficking in narcotics (carfentanil or fentanyl derivatives), first degree possession of a controlled substance (drug unspecified), and possession of drug paraphernalia, arrested and booked February 23.
Derek May, 35, of Grayson, arrested by Grayson PD, on charges of one headlight, no or expired registration plates, operating a motor vehicle on a suspended or revoked operator’s license, failure to maintain required insurance, trafficking in narcotics (carfentanil or fentanyl derivatives), possession of drug paraphernalia, and first degree possession of a controlled substance (drug unspecified), arrested and booked February 23.
Richard Carver, 35, of Olive Hill, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on three counts of failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, arrested and booked February 24.
Jonathan Young, 36, of Webbville, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on charges of failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, and first degree bail jumping, arrested and booked February 25.
Kaitlynn Riddle, 24, of Burkesville, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on two counts of probation violation (for a felony offense), arrested and booked February 25.
Tyler Leadingham, 28, of Olive Hill, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, for two counts of non-payment of court costs, fees, or fines, arrested and booked February 25.
Theresa Decker, 58, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on charges of reckless driving, inadequate silencer (muffler), operating a motor vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance, failure to wear seat belts, no or expired registration receipt, and failure to produce an insurance card, arrested and booked February 25.
Christin Walker, 32, of Olive Hill, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on charges of fourth degree assault – domestic violence (with minor injury), and endangering the welfare of a minor, arrested and booked February 25.
Danny Withrow, 39, of Olive Hill, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on charges of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance, failure to wear seat belts, no or expired registration receipt, possessing a license when privileges are revoked, failure to surrender revoked operator’s license, and driving on a DUI suspended license, arrested and booked February 26.
David Walker, 58, of Flatwoods, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on charges of fourth degree assault – domestic violence (with minor injury), endangering the welfare of a minor, and non-payment of court costs, fees, or fines, arrested and booked February 26.
Zackary Wooten, 31, of West Portsmouth, OH, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on charges of third degree criminal trespass, resisting arrest, and public intoxication on a controlled substance (excludes alcohol), arrested and booked February 26.
Kim Kearns, 34, of Clearfield, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on a charge of failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, arrested and booked February 26.
Dezaray Webb, 28, of Mays Lick, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on two counts of probation violation for a felony offense, arrested and booked February 26.
Austin Hensley, 24, of Garrett, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on charges of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance, rear license not illuminated, inadequate silencer (muffler), operating a motor vehicle on a suspended or revoked operator’s license, first degree trafficking in narcotics (less than 4 grams of cocaine), possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana, arrested and booked February 27.
Randy Lewis, 51, of Grayson, arrested by Kentucky State Police, on a probation violation for a technical violation, and charges of no or expired registration receipt, no or expired registration plates, improper registration plates, failure to produce an insurance card, operating a motor vehicle on a suspended or revoked operator’s license, failure to wear seat belts, inadequate silencer (muffler), excessive window tinting, and failure to appear on a citation for a misdemeanor, arrested and booked February 27.
Joshua Sparks, 38, of Clay City, arrested by Kentucky Department of Corrections, on a probation violation for a felony offense, arrested and booked February 27.
Nathan Carver, 34, of Vanceburg, arrested by Carter County Circuit Court, on a hold for drug court, arrested and booked February 27.
Davon Yancy, 26, of Toledo, OH, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on charges of speeding 13 MPH over limit, failure to produce an insurance card, no or expired registration receipt, third degree trafficking in narcotics (20 dosage units, drug unspecified), trafficking in narcotics (carfentanil or fentanyl derivatives), arrested and booked February 27.
Deangelo Mitchell, 27, of Eastpointe, MI, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on charges of third degree trafficking in narcotics (more than 20 but less than 120 dosage units, drug unspecified), promoting contraband (fentanyl, carfentanil, or derivatives), and trafficking in narcotics (carfentanil or fentanyl derivatives), arrested and booked February 27.
Charles Bryant, 38, of Grayson, arrested by Grayson PD, on two counts of contempt of court, arrested and booked February 28.
Crystal Vanover, 48, of Grayson, arrested by Grayson PD, on charges of second degree disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and alcohol intoxication in a public place, arrested and booked February 28.
Charles Lester, 48, of Grayson, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, for non-payment of court costs, fees, or fines, arrested and booked March 1.
Mihai Nasui, 57, address unavailable, arrested by Kentucky State Policed, on charges of careless driving, and operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol, arrested and booked March 2.
Clayton Puckett, 56, of Olive Hill, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on a charge of second degree arson, arrested and booked March 2.
Daniel Till, 66, of Grayson, arrested by Carter County Sheriff, on a charge of first degree sexual abuse of a victim under 12 years of age, arrested and booked March 2.

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.

Surprising catch of the day

March 4, 2026

3-4 Abandoned vehicle — (submitted photos)

By: Charles Romans
Carter County Times

What started as a relaxing day on the lake turned into something more on Saturday (February 28) when a local fisherman picked up more than a potential school of fish with his depth finder equipment. The equipment identified a submerged object that, the Grayson Fire Department reported, “was consistent with a submerged vehicle beneath the water’s surface.” After the report came in, the Grayson Fire Department and Grayson Fire Dive Rescue were dispatched to the Bruin Boat Ramp at Grayson Lake at approximately 9:11 am.

The response was initially treated as a rescue operation, with an incident command being set up and the situation being quickly assessed. Environmental conditions were evaluated, water depth was determined, operational hazards were assessed, and access points were established. Rescue teams followed every safety protocol in their response.

Rescue and recovery divers were deployed on the scene in approximately 10-12 feet of water that offered near zero visibility. Though hampered by these conditions, divers conducted a controlled search and made contact with what was, in fact, a submerged vehicle. According to Grayson Fire Department, they conducted “…a methodical underwater assessment—including exterior sweep and compartment checks.” After these efforts, the vehicle was determined to be unoccupied.

Carter County Sheriff Jeff May responded to the call, saying the location was right off of the Bruin Ramp. May said that part of the area was in Carter County and part was in Elliot County, and he responded to determine exactly where the reported submerged vehicle was located and if it was in his jurisdiction. Upon arrival, May determined it was in fact in Elliot County, but he offered his assistance.

“I believe it had been there for several years,” May said.

He credited the find to the new sonar equipment available to fishermen, because as the Grayson Fire Department previously stated, visibility was near zero. He also acknowledged the various agencies that worked together to investigate the abandoned vehicle.

“Grayson’s Dive Team, Fish and Wildlife, and the Kentucky State Police were all on the scene,” May noted.

Fortunately, no human remains or any signs of human remains were discovered on the scene, May said. And the condition of the vehicle would seem to suggest that it had been intentionally abandoned, perhaps as part of an illegal activity.

“All the windows were down,” he said, “and the Vehicle Identification Number plate had been removed as well as the license plate.”

May said there was no way to get to the vehicle to remove it from the lake, and authorities opted to leave it in place.

“One of the team pulled a part off the vehicle,” May said. “And they thought that the vehicle could be a 1996 Chevy Cavalier.”

Given the age of the vehicle and the estimated time of submersion, any ecological impact it might have had has since been felt. Currently it isn’t thought to pose any risk, hence one consideration in leaving it where it had submerged.

In a statement on their social media the Grayson Fire Department said, “Complex water operations demand precision, discipline, and seamless coordination. We extend our sincere appreciation to the agencies that assisted on and off scene.”

The Fire Department also gave special thanks to Carter County Emergency Management for the use of their drone.

“This incident underscores the critical importance of maintaining highly trained public safety dive personnel and strong regional partnerships. Whether operating on land or beneath the water’s surface, our mission remains constant: to protect life, preserve property, and serve our community with professionalism,” the Grayson Fire Department stated.

Contact the writer at charles@cartercountytimes.com

3/4/26 e9

March 4, 2026

3.4.26 e9 Download

Extension Notes: Bale Grazing: A Winter Feeding Strategy

February 25, 2026

photo of hay bale on grass field — Photo by Vlad Chețan on Pexels.com

By: Rebecca Konopka
Carter County Extension Agent

The winter feeding method known as bale grazing can reduce tractor use by more than 50%, keep cattle clean and out of mud and improve pasture fertility without buying fertilizer. This method will also allow livestock producers to take a worry-free winter vacation.

Many believe these benefits sound too good to be true, but they have been consistently observed on nearly 100 farms across five states over the past decade. With a small investment in portable fencing and a shift in winter management, bale grazing can transform how you feed cattle.

What is bale grazing?

Instead of delivering hay to livestock as needed, one to three months of winter hay is placed on pasture in large batches. This is typically done in late fall or early winter, when drier ground conditions allow for tractor traffic. Bales are sectioned off by temporary electric fencing, and cattle gain access to new bales as you move the fence every few days, much like rotational grazing. When hay rings are used, they’re simply rolled to the next set of bales.

Pugging damage to the soil is minimized because the cattle spend most of their time near the current set of bales. The sod they were just moved to hasn’t had any animal impact for months, and that pasture will only be bale-grazed once that winter.

The biggest mindset shift? Instead of moving hay to the cattle all winter, you will be moving your cattle to the hay. Instead of you doing the bulk of the winter feeding work, your cattle will do the bulk of the work for you.

What are the benefits of bale grazing?

Better fertility, less work. Bale grazing spreads nutrients across the pasture naturally. Many farms have seen dramatic improvements in pasture production within two to four winters.

Reduced tractor use. Hay is distributed in large batches during dry weather, eliminating the need to drive a tractor through wet winter fields. Most farms see immediate reductions in labor and fuel use, with 50% or more time savings by year two or three as confidence grows in setting out more hay at once.

Cleaner, healthier cattle. Cattle stay cleaner because they’re moved onto fresh sod every few days rather than standing in accumulated mud near a single hay-feeding area. Cleaner coats mean better insulation and less energy spent navigating muddy ground.

Easier winter travel. Because you only need to move a portable fence every few days — and can even preset moves — it’s far easier to leave the farm for short periods. Helpers don’t need to operate equipment; they only need to move portable fencing.

What are the challenges of bale grazing?

The biggest hurdles are planning and cattle training. You’ll need to estimate winter hay needs, choose suitable pastures and plan bale layout before winter begins. Cattle must also be comfortable with temporary electric fencing. Training is simple but essential — especially when numerous bales sit behind a single crossfence. Using two fences (current and next move) adds security. And as always, avoid letting cattle get hungry enough to test a fence.

A bale grazing field day will be held on March 11^th at 6:00 PM in Mt. Sterling. Please register for the field day by calling 859-498-8741. For additional information on bale grazing, contact your Carter County Extension Agriculture & Natural Resources agent or Greg Halich at greg.halich@uky.edu.

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:

Beef Quality Care & Assurance Training – February 27^th @ 10:00 AM; Call 474-6686 to register.
Small Ruminant Quality Assurance Training – March 3^rd @ 6:00 PM; Call 474-6686 to register.
Little Sandy Beekeepers Association – March 3^rd @ 6:30 PM; Topic: Brainy Bees – Using Honey Bee Brains to Understand Shifts in Behavior

Working the weather

February 25, 2026

2-25 weather response — Snow and ice-covered roads plagued Carter County and surrounding communities for weeks. (Photo by Jeremy D. Wells, Carter County Times)

By: Charles Romans
Carter County Times

Winter isn’t quite over; but even though spring has yet to breathe fresh life into the region, after the recent extreme weather conditions, most people have begun to make jokes about the 35-degree (and higher) ‘heat wave.’ Roads, for the most part, are clear and safe to travel. Any snow left over – and there isn’t much – has shrunk to dirty little mounds at the fringes of yards or at the roadside in the shadows of the many hills in our area. And soon even that will have melted away with no danger of being replaced by the brief flurries some of us have seen.

Still, the memory of the snow that was is fresh in our minds. And while those memories of our recent experiences with multiple inches of ice in temperatures far too cold to be melted by salt, and roads that were all but impassable, are still fresh, it might be a good idea to remember that there were folks who weren’t able to avoid the icy mess. Road crews fought the deep snow and frigid temperatures, and emergency crews still answered calls on roads that, in many areas, should have been avoided.

“This last couple of weeks has been tough,” Carter County Judge Executive Brandon Burton said during the Fiscal Court meeting in February.

Burton said that he and emergency director Jason Gillam were in constant contact during the weather event, and had probably spoken more during that time than they had for the last year.

“Our team has been really, really good the last few weeks,” Burton said. “And I say team because it has been all hands on deck.”

“I can’t say enough about the efforts of 911,” Burton continued. “They came when you couldn’t get out. They stayed late and didn’t even go home if we needed them to stay. They did everything they had to do to make sure the people of this county, if they called 911, there was someone there to answer their call. If they were out of heat, or they needed food, the team went. I can’t say enough how much I appreciate and thank you.”

Burton said that at the end of the day, for the people of Carter County, the team of first responders and other county personnel made sure that no matter what was going on, they answered the call. “When we call, you go,” Burton said. “No matter what was needed.”

Emergency director Jason Gillam echoed the judge executive’s sentiments, and added his own thoughts.

“I can’t say how impressed I am about how everyone in this county has come together during this emergency,” Gillam said. “We had two commercial structure fires, and everyone has reached out to help. Local businesses have donated food, and it was just amazing. It starts small. And luckily, we have a great team at emergency management. We have run to every corner of this county.”

The coverage of the county, Gilliam said, was due to everyone coming together at the beginning of the emergency and setting their minds to get through it. He said this emergency was the strongest he had ever seen the county respond, fighting response times hampered by frigid temperatures and inches of ice welded to the roadways. Police, fire, 911, and emergency management, he noted, all went above and beyond to respond to the needs of Carter County residents.

Contact the writer at charles@cartercountytimes.com

Board approves schedule and bus purchase

February 25, 2026

2-25 School board — (Photo by Charles Romans, Carter County Times)

By: Charles Romans
Carter County Times

The Carter County Board of Education voted to approve a new schedule for the 2025-26 school year at their regular meeting on February 16. The adjustment to the schedule was deemed necessary due to the amount of time Carter County students have missed because of widespread sickness and the extended weather event in the area. The changes were set to take effect beginning on Monday, February 23. So far this year Carter County has lost 23 instructional days due to bad weather.

The new schedule will add 20 instructional minutes to each school day to make up for the lost time. The additional minutes will not affect start times and will be added onto the end of the day. The new schedule also takes the first two days of what would have been Spring Break (March 30 and 31), and adds that back into the instructional calendar. Based upon the new calendar, the projected last day of school is set for May 29.

Carter County Schools Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Fraley explained how the adverse weather has impacted the school year, and how NTI (Non Traditional Instruction) and snow days are applied.

“NTI Days count as instructional days, and we don’t have to make those up,” Fraley said. “Snow Days (the county has used 13) have to be made up.”

Given the fact that Carter County and many other counties have fallen under a disaster declaration due to the extreme winter weather, there is a possibility that other snow days might become available. But that is not a guarantee, and the board has taken that into consideration.

“We have looked at both of the proposed bills (House Bill 631 and House Bill 635) that are in the legislature right now,” Fraley said. “One was filed by Representative Truitt, and that was House Bill 635. And when you look at what his bill says – that all school districts are required to have the equivalent of 170 student days or 1,062 hours – we operate on the variable calendar which is the 1,062 hours.”

“Truitt’s Bill states that if a district is unable to provide the required 1,062 hours of instruction by June 10 they would be eligible for the (extra) days. Our last day without doing anything with instructional time would have been June 10,” Fraley said. “So, we don’t qualify in that respect. But we also know that this is just an ‘introduced bill’ and it is not well-developed, and that might change.”

Fraley said that at this time both of the proposed bills state that the only way a district would be eligible for emergency days is if they put instructional days back into their calendar. That restructuring of instructional days was what the board worked on and accomplished at the February meeting.

“So, if this bill does go all the way through, then we might be eligible for it. But then there would be the decision of whether or not we even want to apply for those days.”

Fraley said that ultimately every decision the board makes is based upon what is best for the students and the district.

“Every day that we miss school in that type of instance, where we weren’t running transportation and we weren’t feeding students, we lose money for days like that,” Fraley said. “So, we would really have to consider whether it’s a good idea and if it’s feasible.”

Fraley said that right now, the way both bills are written, Carter County does not qualify for the extra days, so the consideration might not even be necessary. But as those bills go through the legislative process there could be changes made based upon the input of school districts.

Missed days do affect a school’s finances, and even though the board has added two days back into the calendar, there will still be losses. But more important than the financial issue is the instructional issue, Fraley said.

“Our real focus on putting this time back into the calendar is for improved instruction,” Fraley said. “Because our kids have missed so much, even with the NTI Days. NTI Days are instructional days; but no matter what, they are never as good as having our kids with us.”

For this reason, even considering that the NTI Days don’t have to be ‘made up,’ there are still some instructional things that need to be done to supplement those days, Fraley said.

“And then for the 13 snow days, we definitely need to put some things in place because there was no NTI on those days. We really need to build in some time into our calendar before testing to allow us to work with our kids and help make up for that lost instructional time.”

Fraley said that Carter County Schools want to take advantage of every opportunity to both maintain and improve the learning experience for Carter County students. If there are changes made to the proposed bills that would make the district eligible, then the board would consider it, she said. But every decision has to be based upon what is ultimately the most beneficial to the students and their educational careers.

In other business, the board voted to go to the bid process for the new Career and Technical Center. The purchase of two diesel school buses to add to their bus fleet next year was also approved by the board. The new buses will be one 72 passenger and one 52-passenger bus, and it was decided to go with diesel as opposed to electric due to the fact that the current diesel fleet are older vehicles with increasing maintenance costs. Diesel is also currently superior to electric vehicles on longer trips due to potential charging station availability.

Contact the writer at charles@cartercountytimes.com

Dealing with leaks

February 25, 2026

2-25 Olive Hill Council — (Photo by Charles Romans, Carter County Times)

By: Charles Romans
Carter County Times

Bluegrass Engineering discussed a small surplus with the City of Olive Hill at their regularly scheduled meeting last week. The surplus came from a project concerning water leak maintenance, and it was suggested that those funds be applied to zone metering in the city water system. The proposed meters would be applied to relieve high pressure in certain lines in the water system.

Olive Hill Mayor Jerry Callihan told the council that the city did have some zone meters, but the additional meters could be used to cut the applicable zones in half, and relieve pressure from the system. The installation of those meters would also lower the frequency of leaks occurring, and ultimately save the city money. Typically, when a leak occurs, the water lost has already been treated, so the city loses both water and the chemicals used to treat that water to make it fit for human consumption.

The $32,000 in surplus will not purchase many of the needed zone meters, but every bit of savings counts, Bluegrass Engineering told the council. Callihan pointed out that the city will be installing those meters, so the funds spent will be applied directly to needed materials.

In other business, the council was given a report from the Olive Hill Tourism Commission. Tourism President Jeremy Rayburn updated the council on projects the commission had funded or were currently considering funding.

“We voted on several things at the past meeting,” Rayburn said. “The first thing was to give the City of Olive Hill $10,000 to finish up the light project on the light poles. The second thing was the $76,850 to start the paving project and get the concrete torn out.”

Rayburn reported the third item Olive Hill Tourism voted on was to give the City of Olive Hill $10,000 to purchase banners and other decorations for the city’s Fourth of July Celebration.

“That isn’t including fireworks,” Rayburn told the council. “That will be discussed at our next meeting.”

Tourism also ear-marked $6,000 to host a free movie night, Rayburn said.

“It will be called Flicks at the Depot, and it will be held every Friday night except the last Friday of the month. It will be free to the public, and it will be set up so that local sporting groups can set up concessions to make money.”

The council then entered executive session, and upon returning to regular session voted to begin condemnation proceedings on the Steagall property which is located in downtown Olive Hill across from the property currently housing First National Bank. The decision is part of the city’s move to rectify the dangers posed by abandoned and/or dangerous buildings. Currently there are five such properties city attorney Derek Willis said the city could file on.

Contact the writer at charles@cartercountytimes.com

(Photo by Charles Romans, Carter County Times)

Olive Hill council discusses water and tourism

By Charles Romans