The News Journal January 4, 2012

20.5 MB·English

by  The News Journal

Corbin names new City It’s All About Where You Live!
Manager — A-2
Netthheews Journal
tt
ee
nn
..
The Whitley Republican Corbin! This Week
S Along for the ride
W PPIIGGSSKKIINN CCLLAASSSSIICC BBOOWWLL
An alleged kidnapping victim may have
E
N been a willing participant — Page A-3. GGAAMMEE MMAAKKIINNGG AA CCOOMMEEBBAACCKK

E
Check us out online at
D First baby of 2012
I SSEEEE SSPPOORRTTSS,, SSEECCTTIIOONN CC WWW.THENEWSJOURNAL.NET
S Baptist Regional Medical Center in Corbin
N
announces annual New Year Baby — Page A-8.
I W S ST
E A
N N
VOL. 104, NO. 1 (cid:129) WILLIAMSBURG, KY. JANUARY 4, 2012 For subscription info: 606.528.9767 75¢D
YEAR IN REVIEW
THE BIGGEST STORIES OF
2011
Photo by TRENT KNUCKLES
Last day of freedom: Above, former Whitley County Sheriff
Lawrence Hodge, center, is flanked by his attorneys as he heads
Photo provided
into federal court last May. He received 15.5 years in prison for
Pouring: Snow wasn’t the only thing pouring on Interstate 75
drug dealing, extortion and money laundering while in office.
Monday. A wreck just north of exit 29 involving this truck resulted in
3,000 gallons of diesel being spilled on the roadway.
Diesel spill on
I-75 causes
traffic woes
Surprising snowfall reeks havoc
on tri-county roadways Monday
Photo by TRENT KNUCKLES, MARK WHITE and DEAN MANNING
OH YEAH!: Above, Peter Rivera, former lead singer of the band Rare Earth, performed at the NIBROC Festival in
Corbin in Aug. Below, Jason Fox (aka, “The Bad Hair Bandit”) and his wife Tasha appear in court after being arrested ■ By Dean Manning “We had a combination of
in connection with a string of bank robberies late last year. Below, contestants in the NIBROC Just Lose it! competi- [email protected] brutal cold and bands of snow
tion clown around during the finals of the weight loss challenge. mixed with periods of sunshine
Injuries were minor but traffic that caused the precipitation to
backups and delays were major melt and then freeze back into
A year of change,
as a snowstorm moved through black ice,” Dobson explained.
southeastern Kentucky Monday “When you looked at the road,
evening. you thought you were seeing
According to John Henson, asphalt when it was really ice.”
tragedy and hope spokesperson with the Kentucky A series of wrecks brought
Transportation Cabinet office in traffic to a stop on Interstate 75
Manchester, the timing of the in both directions. While the
snow, which began accumulating wrecks in the northbound lanes
on the roadways about 4 p.m. around the 18-mile marker were
in Whitley Co.
and the on-and-off nature of the minor, a three-vehicle wreck on
storm created a perfect environ- the southbound side just north of
ment to make the roads slick and
driving hazardous. See WRECKS, page A-9
■ By Mark White and Dean Manning
T for the News Journal Blaze damages W’burg
he year 2011 can probably best be summed up as a
year of change in Whitley County.
Among the highlights, tragedy struck, former
home Tues. afternoon
officials went to prison, and new officials took
office, some of whom only stayed there for a short
time.
A robber struck local banks. Corbin shaped up
and quit smoking, and justice got a new home in
Fire appears to be electrical in origin
Williamsburg.
Here is a look back at the top 10 stories of 2011 as voted
upon by the news staff of the News Journal.
■ By Mark White
1) Dewayne Bunch [email protected]
On the morning of April 12, 82nd District Rep. Dewayne
Bunch, who took office on Jan. 2, went to his day job as a Even though the home that
teacher at Whitley County High School unaware that the she has lived in for nearly 46
events of this day would change his life for the foreseeable years caught on fire Tuesday
future, and possibly permanently. afternoon, Williamsburg resi-
Bunch was on morning duty in the cafeteria with two dent Pauline Croley says she
other teachers about 7:20 a.m. when a fight broke out feels pretty lucky.
She credits Eva Welch, who
See 2011, page A-6 stays with her during the day,
with getting her out of the
burning building.
“She stays with me dur-
Prosecutors have 33 years to collect restitution from Hodge
ing the daytime, but I stay
by myself at night. If it had
been during the night time, it
■ By Trent Knuckles $64,897 to Whitley County. Office says they are working to would have been falling in on
me because I sleep like a log,”
[email protected] He hasn’t yet paid a dime. recover money stolen during Hodge’s
Croley said. “If it happened
Attempts by authorities to seize tenure and have many options at its
When former Whitley County possible stashes of money from disposal. in the middle of the night, I
Sheriff Lawrence Hodge pleaded Hodge’s home and his mother’s Kyle Edelen, a spokesman for U.S. would have been by myself.” Photo by MARK WHITE
guilty to accusations of money laun- house have turned up empty. Attorney Kerry B. Harvey, would not Welch said there had been Above, Williamsburg firefighters
dering, drug dealing and extortion In response to News Journal inqui- comment on specifics about Hodge’s dryer problems, and that a check out the attic area of this South
while in office, part of his agreement ries about efforts to collect restitu- Second Street home, which caught
with prosecutors required him to pay tion from Hodge, the U.S. Attorney’s See HODGE, page A-9 See FIRE, page A-9 fire Tuesday afternoon.
A-2 — NEWS JOURNAL —JANUARY 4, 2012
Phillips named new Corbin City Manager
Stivers Aquatic
& Wellness Center
some returning for second inter-
■ By Trent Knuckles
views with commissioners.
tknuckles@
The application deadline 105 CENTER STREET, BARBOURVILLE, KY
corbinnewsjournal.com
for the position was extended
Months of searching and 606.546.0005
once. Originally, city leaders
speculation ended last week as had hoped to make a decision Mon - Fri 6:30 am - 8:00 pm; Sat 8:00 am - 7 pm; Sun 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Corbin city leaders officially
by Thanksgiving, but modified
hired a new city manager -
that idea.
a Greenville, SC native with
“We had a lot of strong can-
experience as an administrator
didates. It was really a tough
for cities and counties in both
choice,” McBurney said fol-
Georgia and South Carolina.
lowing Wednesday’s meeting.
Sixty-three-year-old Michael
“I think he was just a good fit.
Phillips was named as the next
We all felt that way. He was
City Manager by Corbin’s
very impressive to all of us. I
Board of Commissioners by Now taking reservations for pool parties!
think the citizens of Corbin will
unanimous vote during a spe-
benefit from this decision.” Parties can be scheduled for every day of the week:
cial meeting at Corbin city hall
Phillips said, in the short term,
last Wednesday. He succeeds Monday - Friday Saturday Sunday
he plans to “ride around town
former City Manger Bill Ed 6 - 8 pm 1 - 3 pm & 4 to 6 pm 3 - 5 pm
and get a look at everything” to
Cannon who resigned in August
become more acquainted with Party rates start at $180 for 2 hours and include use
after serving in the position for
Corbin. Also, he said he would
12 years. of shallow and diving area of the pool and the party room
be meeting fairly intensely with
“I’ve got a lot of experience department heads in city gov- For more info visit our website at stivercenter.org
and I hope to be able to bring
ernment.
some of that here,” Phillips
“We are going to be doing
told a crowd of city employees,
a lot of talking over the next
interested community members
month or two, so be prepared
and local media. “I hope that
for it,” Phillips said following
you will find some good ideas
the meeting.
in what I have to lay on the
He noted that he plans to
table, and I seriously hope you
wsoimll et akree cosommmee ntidmatei otnos oaffnedr hwCaoivtrheb ienam ncp itlio“zoyepeneessn., thdeo omr”e dpiao laincdy Under new management: MichaelP Phohtioll ibpys ToRf EGNrTe eKnNvUillCeK, LSECS t h e n e w s j o u r n a l . n e t
ideas. We are all interested in
Phillips said the City Manager was introduced as the new Corbin City Manager on Dec. 28.
the same thing. We are all inter-
position in Corbin was an Phillips was selected from more than 65 people, who applied
ested in doing what is good for
attractive one because the city for the position that became vacant when Bill Ed Cannon
Corbin and what is good for the
had such potential for increased resigned in August.
people here.”
tourism.
Phillips most recently served
“I see the tourism opportuni-
as City Administrator in Rincon,
ties here just being outstanding,”
GA for three years. Prior to
Phillips said. “You’ve already
that, he was County Manager
got a strong business setup.
for Appling County, GA and
This is a wonderful opportu-
City Administrator in Chester,
nity to me. I’m just going to try
SC. He is a Vietnam War vet-
to keep it moving in the right
eran and held government jobs
direction.” New
in the family court system and
McBurney said Phillips sup-
emergency management. He
port of and experience with
has also been a human resource Motorola
renaissance efforts and Main
manager for a private hospital.
Street programs was a particu-
Phillips officially started his Year.
lar strong point among com- Milestone X2
new job Tuesday. TM
missioners.
Commissioners agreed to pay
Commissioner Joe Shelton
him $75,000 annually. He will
was unable to attend the meet-
receive the standard benefits • 4.3” HD Touchscreen
ing and therefore did not offi-
package for city employees. cially vote on the hiring, but • 8 MP Camera
Corbin Mayor Willard
McBurney said he supported New
McBurney said the process that • HDMI®/DLNA® Connectivity
the decision to make Phillips
preceded Phillips’ selection was
City Manager.
arduous and thorough. Over
Phillips said he and his wife
65 people applied for the job.
plan to reside within the city
Deals. 99
Roughly 16 were interviewed, limits of Corbin. $ 99*
Knox/Laurel deputies say
with 2 Year Agreement
robberies are connected
Knox and Laurel County sheriff’s deputies believe they are
searching for the same person as they investigate armed robberies
at The Tobacco Hut near Barbourville and Mac’s Fillin Station in
Lily, last week.
In both robberies the suspect is described as being about 5’10”,
wearing a camouflage jacket and armed with a knife. Find out more about
According to Knox County Chief Deputy Derek Eubanks, these smartphones
the suspect came into the tobacco store about one mile south of
Barbourville on U.S. 25E about 8:05 p.m. on Dec. 26, and demand-
ed the clerk give him all of the money. The clerk complied and the
robber then fled the store in a silver car.
The clerk told deputies that the robber was wearing a mask and
the knife was a butcher knife with a black handle.
According to Laurel County Sheriff John Root the robber
came into the gas station just across U.S. 25 from Hunter Hills
Elementary School about 9:05 p.m. last Thursday and demanded
money. He then fled in a white colored car, last seen traveling east
on Springcut Road.
The clerk told deputies that the robber was a white male, 5’8”-
5’10”, wearing blue jeans and dark shoes with white soles, along
with a mask and gloves.
Anyone with information about either robbery is asked to con-
tact the Knox County Sheriff’s Department, 546-3181, or Laurel
County Sheriff’s Department, 864-6600.
Carbon monoxide poisoning
LG Ignite™ LG Optimus™ 2 BlackBerry®
suspected cause of deaths at Curve™ 9350
• Android™ 2.3 Gingerbread • 3.2” Touchscreen
Florida Avenue home • 5 MP Rear Facing Camera • 3.2 MP Camera • BlackBerry ® 7 OS
• 4.0” NOVA Touchscreen • Android™ 2.3 Gingerbread • 5 MP Camera w/Flash
Though they are awaiting the results of autopsies to confirm it, $15999* $3999* • Bluetooth® Enabled
Corbin Police say Jeffery Stephenson, 49 and Rebecca Manning, 59
33 died at a home on Florida Ave. from carbon monoxide poison- $ 99*
ing. Stephenson and Manning were found unresponsive inside the
home Thursday morning. with 2 Year Agreement with 2 Year Agreement
According to Corbin Police Major Rob Jones, police were called with 2 Year Agreement
to the scene when the owner of the rental property reported that he
hadn’t seen or talked to Stephenson in approximately two days.
Corbin Police, Corbin Fire Department and officials from
Whitley County Coroner Andy Croley’s office were on scene “all
day.” In addition, employees from the gas company were seen at
the home.
However, Jones declined to offer any details at the time, as police
were still in the process of notifying the victims’ families.
Whitley County Chief Deputy Coroner Jerry Croley said the bod-
The Best Coverage in the Bluegrass & the Plan to go with it. JUST
ies did not appear to have any obvious wounds or cause of death. 59
$ 99*
The bodies have been sent to the state medical office in Frankfort Unlimited Nationwide Talk
for the autopsies, which was scheduled to be performed Friday
& Text Plan
We sell & install seamless (cid:40)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:1)(cid:54)(cid:79)(cid:77)(cid:74)(cid:78)(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:47)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:80)(cid:79)(cid:88)(cid:74)(cid:69)(cid:70)(cid:1)(cid:55)(cid:80)(cid:74)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:1)(cid:78)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:86)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:88)(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:1)(cid:54)(cid:79)(cid:77)(cid:74)(cid:78)(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:53)(cid:70)(cid:89)(cid:85)(cid:1)(cid:46)(cid:70)(cid:84)(cid:84)(cid:66)(cid:72)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:72) (cid:34)(cid:69)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:37)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:66)(cid:1)(cid:71)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:77)(cid:80)(cid:88)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:5)(cid:18)(cid:22)(cid:15)(cid:17)(cid:17)
gutters & vinyl siding
17 DIFFERENT COLORS
& CUT TO THE INCH
DELIVERY AVAILABLE 1.800.928.2355 | Shop 24/7(cid:1)(cid:116)(cid:1)(cid:52)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:1)(cid:86)(cid:81)(cid:1)(cid:71)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:1)(cid:70)(cid:47)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:79)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:49)(cid:83)(cid:80)(cid:78)(cid:80)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:80)(cid:79)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:116)(cid:1)(cid:39)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:1)(cid:36)(cid:66)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:1)(cid:67)(cid:77)(cid:86)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:66)(cid:84)(cid:84)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:77)(cid:77)(cid:86)(cid:77)(cid:66)(cid:83)(cid:15)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:78)
COMPLETE BUILDING CUSTOMER CARE CENTERS Corbin: 790 E. Cumberland Gap Pkwy (Next to Mr. Gatti’s and Kroger in Corbin Station Shopping
PACKAGES FOR: Center), [phone] AUTHORIZED AGENTS Somerset: Wireless Express, 2520 Monticello Rd., [phone], Weddle
BARNS • GARAGES Technologies, 1340 S. HWY 27, Suite B, [phone]Corbin: Reelz Video, 1019 Cumberland Falls Hwy, [phone] Corporate
ESFTRIMEAETES RESIDENTIAL •& C OBMUMILEDRCINIAGL S• FARM Sales [phone] Ext. 2412
•INSULATION •SCREWS •METAL TRIM
METAL SALES
•SLIDING DOOR TRACK & ACC.
•ENTRANCE DOORS
& CONSTRUCTION, INC.
•WOOD POSTS •SKYLIGHTS
Sale dates January 1-28. Limited time offers on select phones, accessories, features and plans, while supplies last. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Promotional pricing not valid on previous purchases. Plans require service agreement
•MANUFACTURE TRUSSES subject to credit approval and $150 early termination fee. All plans require use of compatible network (CDMA) device procured by or purchased from Bluegrass Cellular or one of its authorized agents. Airtime charges are billed in full minute increments,
with partial minutes rounded up to the next full minute. Digital features may not be available in all areas. Equipment pricing: Advertised phone and data device prices apply to plans on 2-year agreements (new or renewing). Equipment pricing and phone
102 KELLER RD., WILLIAMSBURG, KY. 40769 selection may not be available at all locations. Prices do not include sales tax. Plans: Advertised Unlimited Talk & Text plan includes unlimited talk (additional minutes billed at 20 cents per minute) text. . Plan features include Caller ID, Call Waiting and
Basic Voice Mail. Monthly rates do not include any applicable taxes, surcharges and fees. Data: 3G (EV-DO) nationwide hi-speed data service subject to performance limitations and is available in select areas. All smartphones require $30 a month data
PHONE: [phone] TOLL FREE 1-866-492-1866 feature. BlackBerry®, RIM®, Research In Motion®, SureType® and related trademarks, names and logos are the property of Research In Motion Limited and are registered and/or used in the U.S. and countries around the world. Used under license from
OPEN: MONDAY - FRIDAY - 8 AM - 4:30 PM - CLOSED SATURDAY & SUNDAY Research In Motion Limited. Android is a trademark of Google Inc. Use of this trademark is subject to Google Permissions. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Other restrictions apply, call 1-800-928-CELL, log on to bluegrasscel-
lular.com or visit your nearest Bluegrass Cellular location for details. © 2012 Bluegrass Cellular, Inc. All rights reserved.
News Journal NEWS JOURNAL — JANUARY 4, 2012— A-3
Local News
Williamsburg Serving our community since 1908 Corbin
Arson suspected in Sunday blaze
■ By Mark White Kentucky Fire Marshall’s Office was sched- the blaze in less than five minutes, and were a rental property owned by Garland Newell of
uled to investigate Tuesday morning. on the scene for nearly an hour. Jellico, had pry marks on it, and various items
[email protected]
A University of the Cumberlands’ secu- “We caught it early. The full structure is appeared to be missing, Privett said.
Williamsburg firefighters suspect arson in rity guard spotted smoke coming from the still standing,” Privett said. He said that it’s possible the fire may have
an early Sunday morning blaze that damaged 822 South Second Street residence, which “Of course you always have smoke and been set in an effort to cover up a burglary.
a mobile home. is located near Hill Street, about 4:22 a.m. water damage. We had hot fire in three dif- The residents weren’t home when the fire
Williamsburg Fire Chief James Privett said Sunday and called 911, Privett said. ferent places, but the men got on it quickly broke out and no one was injured.
there were three suspected points or origin, About 12 Williamsburg firefighters and two and got it out. We had a little luck, a quick Williamsburg Police Detective Bobby
or separate places where the fires apparent- fire trucks responded to the scene. response and a good job.” Freeman has opened an investigation into the
ly started in the doublewide, and that the Privett said firefighters were able to put out The back door of the residence, which was case.
Murder suspect caught
at North Corbin hotel
■ By Trent Knuckles went to the hotel at about assault in
[email protected] 9:43 p.m. and located Sims the case
and placed him under arrest but failed
A man wanted for murder on an indictment warrant. to show
in Franklin County was cap- He was lodged in the up for his
tured Friday by Kentucky Laurel County Detention sentenc-
State Police at a hotel locat- Center. ing hear-
ed in the southern Laurel According to court ing.
County portion of Corbin. records, Sims was wanted in S i m s
According to officials Frankfort for the Sept. 2010 is from
with Kentucky State Police murder of 40-year-old Obie Detroit, Sims
Post 11 in London, 38-year- Murphy. Murphy was alleg- Mich. and
old Marquis A. Sims had edly shot to death during was indicted in Aug. 2011.
been staying at the Comfort what police and prosecutors He is currently being
Inn and Suites. KSP Trooper are saying was a drug deal held in the Franklin County
On the stand: Above, Whitley Jack Riley, Trooper Michele gone sour. Regional Jail on a $200,000
County Sheriff’s Lt. Bill Riley Lunsford and KSP-CVE Police are also looking cash bond. Frankfort Police
testifies during a Dec. 28 pre- Greg Reams and KSP-CVE for Robert Witkowski who are continuing an investiga-
liminary hearing that alleged Officer Keegan Bray all earlier pleaded guilty to tion into the case.
kidnapping victim Melissa
Johnson appeared to be a
willing participant, and that
W’burg alcohol opposition
she claimed she was driv-
ing the vehicle during a high
speed chase through south-
ern Whitley County on Dec.
7. At right, Mark Ferguson
and Johnson are seen enter-
ing Whitley District Court in beginning to organize
Williamsburg for the hearing.
Photos by MARK WHITE
■ By Mark White A petition, which would allow packaged
[email protected] alcohol sales in Corbin, will likely be set for
a special election some time next month.
Although a petition for a referendum to Citizens for Economic Progress filed the
allow alcohol sales in Williamsburg hasn’t petition on Dec. 12 at the Whitley County
been filed yet, opposition force are wasting Clerk’s Office, and 544 valid signatures
Alleged kidnapping victim no time in organizing. were certified in Whitley County, and 148
Pat Marple, who served as Chairperson in Knox County.
of the Citizens Against the Sale of Alcohol If passed, Corbin would likely be allowed
in 2006, said an organizational meeting for to issue three licenses to stores to sell pack-
the group is scheduled for Thursday at the age liquor of any type. An unlimited num-
Cumberland Inn. ber of licenses could be issued to grocery
described as willing participant
On Monday, Jan. 23, Don Cole, Executive stores, convenient marts and the like for
Director of the Kentucky League Against beer sales. Also, restrictions on sales of
Alcohol and Gambling Problems, will hold alcohol at restaurants would become more
a public forum at 7 p.m. at the Cumberland lax. Currently, restaurants that sell alcohol
Inn to discuss the matter, Marple said. must have at least 70 percent of their gross
Whitley County Clerk Kay Schwartz receipts from food sales. That would drop
■ By Mark White Police believe that the couple was initially
said that she hasn’t heard any word from to 50 percent.
[email protected] in a stolen Chevrolet Impala, which was taken
Williamsburg organizers recently about sub- Schwartz said that Judge-Executive
Sunday, and later discovered broken down
mitting their petition. Pat White Jr. hasn’t set a date for the
An Ohio couple, who led a Whitley County and abandoned in Lawrence County, Ohio.
The measure would allow by the drink Corbin special election, but she said that
Sheriff’s deputy on a high-speed Dec. 7 From there, two teenagers allegedly gave
alcohol sales at restaurants that seat at least it is too late to have both the Corbin and
chase, will apparently remain in the Whitley the pair a ride to a Burger King in Ashland,
100 people and derive 70 percent of their Williamsburg special elections on the same
County Detention Center until Jan. 9. Ky. during the evening hours of Dec. 5.
revenue from food sales. day. Special elections on the alcohol refer-
Whitley County District Judge Cathy “She was abducted at knife point, but I
It is the same referendum that Corbin vot- endums have to be held no less than 60 days
Prewitt determined during a Dec. 28 court believe she became a cooperating partici-
ers approved in 2003 by a nearly 300-vote and no more than 90 days after the petitions
hearing that there was probable cause to bind pant,” Riley testified.
margin, and one that Williamsburg voters are filed,
the cases against Mark Ferguson, 25, and “She was willing going along with what-
defeated in May 2006 by a vote of 790 - Citizens for Economic Progress had ini-
Melissa Johnson, 23, both of Xenia, Ohio, ever he wanted to do.”
577. tially asked for a Feb. 14 special election
over to a Whitley County Grand Jury. Riley said that if he had to make a judg-
A petition with at least 268 valid signa- date, but Schwartz had recommended a Feb.
Ferguson is charged with speeding 26 mph ment, he would say that Johnson was the one
tures from Williamsburg voters should be 21 date in hopes of having the Corbin and
or more over the speed limit, receiving stolen in control of the situation.
enough to place the measure on the ballot. Williamsburg elections on the same date.
property $10,000 or more, first-degree flee- “She is the one, who came out of the
In 2006, organizers gathered at least 608 “It will have to be two different elections,
ing or evading police, first-degree wanton woods. She was the one, who did the televi-
valid signatures on petitions. which will be OK,” she added.
endangerment, no insurance, operating on sion interview saying that he was a good
a suspended or revoked operator’s license, person,” Riley said. The two lived together in
and on five counts of being a fugitive from Ohio, and had a child together.
Police abuse lawsuit set for trial
another state. Police scoured the Whitley County and
Johnson, 23, is charged with receiving sto- Williamsburg area looking for the duo for
len property $10,000 or more, first-degree several hours on Dec. 7 before spotting the
fleeing or evading police, reckless driving, couple about 6:15 p.m. in the Tackett Creek
first-degree wanton endangerment, operating and Mt. Ash areas.
on a suspended or revoked operator’s license, Riley said the vehicle took off when he ■ By Dean Manning seized medication she had Restaurant when she was
and no insurance. tried to pull it over. [email protected] been prescribed and then stopped by Taylor, who
Sheriff’s Lt. Bill Riley testified that police Riley pursued the vehicle for six to seven removed bandages cover- apparently questioned her
had been notified on Dec. 7 that the couple miles at speeds of up to at least 80 mph on The trial of a federal ing wounds and then probed about a “loud and potential-
had stolen a white, 2007 Toyota Camry from the single-lane road until the car turned up lawsuit against the City of inside them claiming she ly violent argument” among
the Ashland area, and were believed to be in Lucy Lake Hollow where the vehicle stopped, Williamsburg filed by a was hiding drugs. employees at the Days Inn.
Whitley County where Johnson had relatives. and the driver and passenger fled on foot. Jellico, Tenn. woman who According to the lawsuit, She said she knew nothing
The notification noted that Ferguson was Johnson soon came from behind a building, claims she was abused at Perkins was a guest at the about the fight and didn’t
wanted in Ohio on various felony charges, and surrendered to police while Ferguson fled the hands of city police offi- Days Inn motel in learn about it until after the
and that Johnson, who was also in the car, into the woods. cers is set to begin Monday Williamsburg on May 14, fact.
was an assault victim and reported as miss- Riley let Johnson use the public address in U.S. District Court in 2008, where she had trav- The lawsuit goes on to
ing. system on his cruiser in an attempt to com- London. eled to meet a friend follow- claim that Taylor referred to
About 7 a.m. on Dec. 4, Ferguson alleg- municate with Ferguson to persuade him to Kimberly Perkins filed ing a surgical procedure at her as a man,
edly abducted Johnson from a hotel room in give himself up. the lawsuit against the city, the University of Tennessee inappropriately touched
Xenia, Ohio, by throwing a rock through a “She hollered on the PA system several Mayor Roddy Harrison, for- Medical Center. The two her then later, with Jones,
Knight’s Inn window, and entering the busi- times for him to come out and give himself mer Police Chief Russell shared a room and were searched her room and
ness with a knife. up. They were in this together until the end Jones, Officer Michael planning on traveling to seized some medications
According to the Xenia Police Department, that is what they promised each other,” Riley Taylor and Whitley County Louisville. that had been prescribed to
Ferguson threatened everyone in the room testified. on May 13, 2009, stating Perkins left the hotel to her, along with other items.
and removed Johnson from the motel against that the officers detained get something to eat at a
her will. See HEARING, page A-5 her without cause, illegally nearby Krystal ABUSE, page A-5
A-4 — NEWS JOURNAL — JANUARY 4, 2012
N J News Journal — [phone]
ews ournal
O News Journal Letters to Editor policy 105 South Second St., P.O. Box 418, Williamsburg, KY 40769
The NEWS JOURNAL (USPS 683320) is published each Wednesday
pinion Letters to the editor are welcomed. We invite you to express your opinion on local, state and by The Whitley Whiz Inc., 105 South Second St., Williamsburg,
national issues. All letters must be signed by the author with a phone number for verification KY. 40769-0418. Periodicals-class postage paid at Williamsburg, KY.
purposes. Please contain letters to 500 words or less. We reserve the right to edit or reject any and POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: NEWS JOURNAL, P.O. Box 418,
all letters for any reason. All letters are the opinion of the writers and do not necessarily represent Williamsburg KY 40769-0418. Annual subscription rates: $36.00 in local
the opinion of the News Journal. No more than (2) letters per month will be published by the delivery area; $48.00 elsewhere in Kentucky; $56.00 elsewhere. Online
same writer. Deadline for letters is Monday at 5 p.m. Letters may be sent to the News Journal, edition only $35.000.
P.O. Box 418, Williamsburg, KY 40769 or P.O. Box 1524, Corbin KY 40702; delivered to our
offices at 105 South Second Street, Williamsburg or 215 North Main Street, Corbin. [phone]
CIRCULATION
Pen Points This newspaper begins its
104th year of publication
On the front of the Cumberlands
page of this and the Hal Rogers
newspaper Don entertainment
you will see Vol. Center are great
104. That means Estep attractions in
we are starting the Williamsburg.
104th year of pub- Commentary The Arena in
lication dating back
Corbin should come
to March 12,1908
to life and offer
when this newspa-
events that will
per was born.
attract crowds. It is a perfect place to
It was then when a group of Whitley
host small town conventions and this
County Republicans gathered in the
should be explored.
office of Attorney J.N. Sharp to orga-
Those are just a couple of examples.
nize the Whitley County Publishing
Other improvements would include
Company.
new restaurants, retail establishments,
The newspaper was published under
industry, activities, and the list can go
the name of Whitley Republican until
on and on.
1991 when the name was changed to
A new year is always a starting point
The News Journal. This was done to
and 2012 can be a time to make our
accommodate the merger of two edi-
area better.
tions, The Whitley Republican and
*Our daughter, Ashley, who had
Corbin! This Week. Both of those
lived in Connecticut the past 12 years
names still appear on the masthead.
moved back to Corbin recently.
This year I complete 25 years as its
While living in that state she had to
Letters to the Editor publisher. I was named publisher in
deal with snowfalls that came up to
June, 1987 and started the Corbin!
the windows on her car. Even though
This Week edition in August 1987.
the winters there were bad she never
With 2011 behind us, I am look-
was stranded because crews were out
Lions Club President thanks Prisoner praises News ing for our economy to improve this clearing the roads no matter how much
year. We took a tremendous hit in
snow fell.
basket program volunteers Journal, opposes alcohol 2008 when several businesses closed.
She got her taste of how things are
We lost all new car dealers in Whitley
here Monday night. When she left our
To the Editor: To the Editor: County that year, plus several others house at 6:30 p.m. heading home, I
in the Tri-County area.
The Corbin Lions Club continues was startled when she called at 7:20
Mr. Estep, allow me to introduce myself. Whitley County is too big to be with-
to accept donations toward our annu- and said she had not made it home
As you can tell, I am an incarcerated inmate out a new car dealership. I’d like to see
al Christmas Basket Program. We have in the state of Florida. I’m not writing to one locate here or some of the dealer- yet. Normally it is a five minute drive.
raised $10,464 towards paying for the proclaim my innocence for the crime that ships in the area establish branch From what I have heard the brief
240 Christmas food baskets distributed on I’m presently incarcerated for because the snow storm Monday afternoon totally
locations in our county.
Christmas Eve. Lord and myself knows that I am, in fact, paralyzed the traffic in the area.
This year should serve as a new
This is our 63rd consecutive year of pro- guilty and deserve the punishment that the Perhaps nobody could have predicted
beginning in several ways. It should be
viding food baskets to local families during state of Florida has imposed upon me. No how slick it was going to be and the
the time for factions to come together
the Christmas season. Beginning with five sir, I’m writing to thank you and your staff folks in the northern states could have
baskets in 1949, we have delivered hun- for what I feel is a breath of fresh air. I and work toward a common goal. been as unprepared as we were. But it
dreds of baskets each year. myself cannot afford to have a newspaper The potential for the tourism dollar should serve as a warning to be ready
Our goal can only be met with the gen- sent to me, however there is another inmate is great in our county. The University when snow is in the forecast.
erosity of community members and busi- here who is from the area that gets your
nesses. We have also seen a need to meet weekly paper. This inmate is kind enough to When we needed him,
pass the newspaper to me after he has read
hunger needs throughout the year and will,
it. This newspaper has given me something
therefore, use any surplus funds to meet
to look forward to each week, and when
these ongoing needs. We want you to be
I end up with the News Journal I read it
assured that your money is used responsi-
from front to back including all the ads.
bly. Please mail donations to P.O. Box 365,
You see, I’m not from the state of Florida.
Corbin, KY 40701. Sid Strunk was there
I was born in West Virginia, but have not
We wish to thank over one hundred peo-
lived there since I left for the Army in 1968.
ple who gave of their time to help prepare
I have been all over the world and lived in
the baskets and deliver them on Christmas big cities and lived the fast life, but your
Eve morning. newspaper has made me realize I wa not
In addition to the previous letter to the living a life, but I was missing a good clean
editor, the club wishes to thank the fol- small-town life. Sid Strunk Everyone at this
lowing individuals and businesses for their Your paper has made me almost feel like was an newspaper will
monetary or food donations: I am part of your town. I wait each week to Trent
instrumental miss him terribly.
A Professional Staffing & Sorting read and see if Mr. Ken Mobley will be the
part of making the In his honor, we
Solutions, Archie & Karen Marr, Audrey Whitley County Jailer or if Ms. Moses or
Norvell, Billy & Vera Gibbs, Carl & Judy Mr. Moses will be the new Jailer. And the News Journal’s Knuckles are renaming our
McDaniel, Carol D. Forbes, Christian great things Mr. Jackson and his wife are annual cornhole tournament the Sid
Women Fellowship of First Christian doing with their students. It even saddens tournament dur- Check This Out Strunk Memorial
ing the NIBROC
Church, Chuck Wilson, Cloyd & Associates, me to read of the passing of Mr. Mosley, our Classic Cornhole
Festival one of he
former parks and recreation director. I had Tournament.
Corbin Flower Shop, Delta Natural Gas
biggest and most
Company, Donation Cans from David’s never met the man in person, however, after We feel this is a
Steakhouse, Drs. Brent and Terri Chumbley, reading about him I feel it would have been prestigious in southeastern Kentucky. fitting tribute to someone who helped
a honor and a privilege if I would have. For his help, we are eternally grate-
Earthgrains, Forcht Bank, Freddie Cox, us so much.
I would like to express a little concern I’d ful. He was a great guy.
Golden Circle Sunday School Class of (cid:129) In the wake of what happened
like to share with you if I may. About 90 Sid died last week after a long fight
Central Baptist Church, Henry & June on Corbin’s roadways on Monday, I
percent of people end up in jail/prison due with cancer. He was 75-years-old.
Martin, Jackie & Sandra Willis, Joan Black, think it is safe to say that one of the
to drinking, drugs or women. After reading I attended visitation for Sid at Croley
Johnny & Donna Woods, Kathy Goins, Lion your paper, it’s clear that a drug problem first things new Corbin City Manager
Funeral Home Saturday. It is clear Sid
Jim Castle, Lion Willie Champlin, Marvin does exist in your area, like in many other Michael Phillips should
had a lot of friends.
& Donna Jackson, McDonald’s (Mann areas across the United States. However, tackle is getting a better
I got the chance to speak
Enterprises), Mike Sparks Insurance Agency what you don’t have many of are DUIs or plan in place to pre-treat
/ State Farm Insurance, Mr. & Mrs. Charlie wrecks due to drinking and causing deaths with his family - his wife, and salt roadways in the
Moore, Ossoli Club, Paul & Jo Rains, or injuries, or young teens ending up in jail grandson and others at
city. There’s a few months
Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company, Pit Stop, because they were able to get their hands the funeral home. They
of winter remaining. It
Renew You Medical Aesthetics, Rita Cox, on something to drink and did something often came to our tourna-
could happen again real
Ron “Bubba” Bowling, Sav-Rite, Specialty stupid and don’t recall it, but they and their ments as well. They are
soon.
Advertising, Tim & Deirdre Barnes, Titan families will be forced to pay for it the rest first class people, every one
Propane (Empire Gas), Tri County Elks of their lives. of them, just like Sid. His Even if some of our main
Lodge #2826, Tri-County Cineplex, Venture I am an alcoholic and believe me I know grandson told me that Sid’s roads are state or federal
Cabs, Wallen’s Towing & Recovery, Weber what it can do to families. So is it worth the fascination with the game highways, I’m pretty cer-
Appraisal Service, West Corbin Christian extra money that alcoholic beverages may of cornhole was a hobby tain the state and federal
Church. bring into your community? Just by reading that probably extended his government wouldn’t get
your paper, I feel what your community has
too mad if we helped them
is priceless so why would anyone want to life six or seven years. Sid
SIMON MORTIMER, PRESIDENT allow alcoholic beverages to take away what loved to play the game. I out a bit. It can be hard to
CORBIN LIONS CLUB seems to me is such a pure, clean Christian think it is good to be pas- know exactly what to do
with weather changing so
life your area is living? Please don’t be the sionate about one’s hob-
town to say “life was enjoyable here before bies. I believe in that. The annual News Journal rapidly, but better to err
Don’t be silent! Write a they allowed drinking. You could leave your When this newspaper Cornhole Tournament will on the side of caution.
door open and not worry about drunk fights be rennamed in honor of Finger pointing and
endeavored to start a
and drunk drivers. Yes, it was pure and clean Sid Strunk, of Williamsburg. blame won’t help now. But
cornhole tournament over
and simple and life was good.” His efforts helped make the when things like this hap-
letter to the editor and three years ago, we had
Again, thank you for such a great paper. tournament a great suc- pen, we can use them as
only a vague idea what
cess. learning experiences.
we were getting into. Sid
TIMOTHY L. LONG (cid:129) One of the cool-
see your thoughts in print LIBERTY CORRECTIONAL BINRSISTTITOULT,I OFNL hboelapredds uasn dim smcoernekseeleyp binyg s euqpupilpyminegn t, est things that happened this past
brackets and good old-fashioned know- Christmas was my daughter receiving
how. He played in every tournament. a reply letter from Santa Claus. She
He always showed up right on time mailed her wishes to him in the big
DON ESTEP - Publisher/Editor [email protected] with the boards and would stay until mailbox at NIBROC Park. She was so
TRENT KNUCKLES - Associate Publisher [email protected] the last bag was thrown, often very late excited that he actually reads his mail!
MARK WHITE - News Editor [email protected] into the evening. He made quite useful What a great memory.
LINDA CARPENTER - Corbin Office Manager [email protected] suggestions on how to make our tour- (cid:129) I just realized that the difference
JOYCE MORGAN - Williamsburg Office Manager [email protected] nament better. He did all this for abso- between victory and defeat in our office
DEAN MANNING - Reporter [email protected] lutely no gain to himself, other than college bowl game challenge could like-
JIM MCALISTER - Sports Editor [email protected] the pleasure he derived from helping ly come down to who picked the cor-
FATEMIA FUSON - Society Editor [email protected] the sport thrive in this area. He did rect winner of the Arkansas State vs.
BENA MAE SEIVERS - Columnist [email protected] everything he could to get people into Northern Illinois game in the GoDaddy.
MELISSA HUDSON - Advertising [email protected] the game and nurture a community of com Bowl! Funny that one of the lam-
TREVOR SHERMAN - Advertising [email protected] local players who loved it as much as est bowls could secure me bragging
JENNIFER BENFIELD - Circulation [email protected] he did. rights for a year if it comes out right.
NEWS JOURNAL —JANUARY 4, 2012 — A-5
Reams jailed while awaiting sentencing
*
■ By Trent Knuckles any chemical weapons incidents. The to be delivered.” Vess
[email protected] Depot contains a stockpile of chemical received one payment
weapons. on the equipment
A former local emergency manage- An Integrated Process Team (IPT) was for $9,996.15, but a
ment director, who has pleaded guilty formed by the 10 counties that made up second invoice was
to defrauding a program designed to CSEPP. Reams was a member of the rejected.
help prepare communities respond to IPT. In addition, Reams *Ask for details. Max size 4 ft. x 6ft.
potential incidents involving chemical From Nov. 2006 through Aug. 2007, was also accused of
weapons, is behind bars this week for Reams conspired with Melody Vess using $26,029.06 to
violating the terms of his bond. Reams to rig bids regarding the purchase pay “unrelated finan-
Brian Reams, 43, is asking a judge to of equipment like generators, decontam- cial obligations of the Reams
set aside the conditions of his release, ination tents, emergency response trail- Laurel County Fiscal
signaling his intention to remain in jail ers, etc. Vess owned a company called Court.”
without challenging revocation of his Providing Response and Emergency Vess pleaded guilty to her part in the
bond. Prosecutors accused Reams of an Preparedness (PREP) that was founded scheme last September and received a
unspecified violation of the conditions in Aug. 2006. He ensured her company sentence of three years probation. She
of his release. Documents that could was the low bidder on the project. was also ordered to pay $215,134.30 in
1/2 PRICE
shed light on the violation are currently Prosecutors say Vess provided coun- restitution.
under seal and cannot be viewed by the ties “with equipment of lesser value and Reams pleaded guilty to a single
public. quality than that called for in PREP’s charge of conspiracy to defraud the
Reams was formerly Director of the winning bid.” She and Reams worked United States on Oct. 20, 2011. He could
Laurel County Department of Public together on purchase of the equipment receive up to five years in prison and a
Safety and Emergency Management. He and both benefited from the contract. fine of $250,000. A formal sentencing
SHOE SALE
was accused last October of conspiring Vess deposited $539,446.35 in a bank hearing on the case is scheduled for
with his girlfriend, and eventual wife, account at L&N Federal Credit Union in March 8.
to rip off a program called CSEPP - London on May 4, 2007 - payment for Reams appeared before Magistrate
Chemical Weapons Stockpile Emergency the equipment. Judge Hanley Ingram in U.S. District SELECTED CLEARANCE
Preparedness Program. In 2006, CSEPP The actual lone legitimate bidder on Court in London last week for a hearing SHOES, BOOTS & HANDBAGS!
provided $1.8 million to the Kentucky the CSEPP contract had undercut PREP on the bond violation, but it was con-
Division of Emergency Management to with a bid of $378,260, a difference of tinued generally. His attorney, Michael SELECTED STYLES TENNIS SHOES
“purchase and maintain emergency pre- $152.186.35. Murphy, filed a motion in court Tuesday UGGS
NIKE SHOX, K SWISS
paredness equipment” so that communi- The duo agreed in January and May asking the judge to set aside Reams’
NEW BALANCE,
ties near the Bluegrass Army Depot, in 2008 to fraudulently bill CESEPP for two order of release, assuring that he will
REEBOK ZIG, ADIDAS,
Madison County, could be respond to radio repeaters “that were never intended remain in jail until he is sentenced. AUSTRALIAN
SAUCONY & MORE!
BOOTS
HEARING: GREAT PRICES ON ALL
Judge orders high-speed 30%
THE NEWEST STYLES
TO
PLUS A GROUP FOR
40%
1/2 PRICE
OFF
chase case on to Whitley Grand Jury
B H
FAMILY
&
From page A-3 road during the chase, the for Ferguson nothing that now,” Moses added. SHOE STORE
results could have been tragic. both are flight risks. Ferguson is currently serv-
“If they had met another car, During last week’s court ing a six-month jail sentence
“BIG LOCATION - JUST DOWN FROM K-MART ON THE SAME SIDE.”
About an hour later, a secu- they would have wiped out appearance, Ferguson signed in Whitley County after HWY. 25E - CORBIN - 528-0521
rity guard at Rowe’s Scrap half the community,” Riley papers waiving extradition pleading guilty to criminal
Metal spotted Ferguson and testified. back to Ohio to face charges mischief.
held him at gunpoint until Ohio authorities obtained there, but Prewitt declined to He allegedly led three other
police arrived. arrest warrants for Ferguson release him to go back to inmates in an effort to bust
Need help
Riley said that he isn’t sure on charges of abduction, two Ohio. “My concern is that a through the back wall of their
who was driving while he counts of aggravated burglary, mistake will be made, and jail cell at the Whitley County
was chasing the vehicle. felonious assault and grand he will be released to Ohio Detention Center in an effort
with your
Both Johnson and Ferguson theft auto, Riley said. before Whitley County fin- to get to the cells of the female
claimed that she was driving Prewitt ordered the pair ishes with him,” Prewitt said. inmates. Jail officials said the
and he was the passenger, to report to Whitley Circuit Whitley County Attorney four men didn’t count on 16
retirement
but Riley said he couldn’t Court on Jan. 9 to see if they Don Moses said he doesn’t inches of concrete and steel
take the word of either one have been indicted. have a problem with Ferguson between the cell walls, and
of them. She declined to lower being transferred to Ohio at the fact that the cell located
savings?
He is sure that if another Johnson’s $7,500 cash bond, an appropriate time. behind them housed male
vehicle had been on narrow and set a $100,000 cash bond “I don’t think that time is inmates.
ABUSE:
Case scheduled for trial Monday Joshua P Curry
Financial Advisor
.
From page A-3 Whitley County Detention Center “in a her attorneys claim is “false and without South Park Center Drive 11
dirty cell with an unkempt man who was any basis in law and fact.” Suite A
Perkins also claims Taylor removed lying on an old mat” and was refused The lawsuit claims Perkins’ Corbin, KY 40701
bandages covering wounds as deep as medications and proper treatment for Constitutional rights to be free from ille- 606-523-8306
one and a half inches and probed them her wounds. She says that some of her gal search and seizure and from use of www.edwardjones.com
claiming she was hiding drugs, which medication, $585 in cash, three rings and excessive force were violated. She says
“caused excruciating and uncontrollable some winning lottery tickets have never she has been physically and emotionally
pain.” been returned to her. Her arrest is part of traumatized by the incident and is seek-
Perkins says she was lodged in the an ongoing criminal prosecution which ing monetary damages.
First day on the job…
Member SIPC
ABSOLUTE LATE ANDREW
ON-LINE ONLY
ESTATE
COOPER’S
46 +/- ACRES
BIDDING ENDS JAN. 16TH, 2012 AT APPROXIMATELY 1 P.M.
WILLIAMSBURG, KY
Bid Online at www.fordbrothersinc.com
DIRECTIONS: : From Williamsburg take Hwy 25 South approximately 8 miles and turn
Photo courtesy Kentucky House Republican Caucus/LRC Public Information left onto Hwy 1804. Proceed on Hwy 1804 approximately 2 ½ miles and turn right onto
Rep. Regina Bunch, R-Williamsburg (82nd District) shakes hands with Kentucky Supreme Court Sandy Flat Road (near the railroad tracks) and make an immediate left. Go 200 yards and
Chief Justice John Minton shortly after taking the oath of office on the floor of the Kentucky turn right onto A. Cooper Road. Follow to dead end. Auction signs are posted.
House of Representatives on the first day of the 2012 Regular Session. Rep. Bunch was elected
DESCRIPTION: This 46 acres (more or less) is an ideal playground for the outdoor en-
last month to serve out the remaining term of her husband, former Rep. Dewayne Bunch.
thusiast! Whether it is for hunting, hiking, or for those who love horseback riding or four
wheeling, this acreage is the place for you.
Woman hides drugs in body cavity AUCTIONEERS NOTE: This property is being offered at absolute online only auction. Please log onto our
website at www.fordbrothersinc.com for bidding and terms. This property would be an excellent investment
property and ideal for the adventurer.
TERMS: 20% deposit required within 48 hours of close of auction.
A Whitley City woman is facing a felo- traband. While performing a strip search, Cox Note: There will be a 10% buyer’s premium added to the last bid to determine the fi nal sales price.
ny contraband charge for allegedly trying noticed something inside of Hamby’s rectum, ** 3 % broker participation will be offered.
to smuggle drugs into the Whitley County and asked her to remove it, according to an
This property has not been surveyed and is being sold by the boundary.
Detention Center inside a body cavity. arrest citation.
About 1:35 a.m. on Jan. 1, Deputy Jailer The bottle allegedly contained two Xanax AUCTIONEER/BROKER/SELLER DISCLAIMER: The information contained herein is believed to be
Samantha Cox charged Renee Michelle pills and 1.5 Hydrocodone pills, according to correct to the best of the auctioneer’s knowledge. The information is being provided for the bidder’s con-
Hamby, 27, with first-degree promoting con- the citation. venience and it is the bidder’s responsibility to determine the information contained herein is accurate and
complete. The property is selling in its as-is condition with no warranties expressed or implied.
Announcements made the day of the auction take precedence over printed matter.
Corbin woman charged with assault For additional information contact the auctioneers at 800-526-9430.
A Corbin woman is being held in the ond-degree assault.
Whitley County Detention Center in lieu of a On Nov. 15, Morgan allegedly caused
$7,500 fully secured bond after being arrested serious physical injury to Anthony Wayne
on Dec. 29 for assault. Eversole by stabbing him in the arm with a
www.fordbrothersinc.com
About 9:13 p.m., Kentucky State Police knife, according to the arrest warrant, which REALTOR/AUCTIONEER: DANNY FORD, MATT FORD, RON SHAW, DAVID
REYNOLDS, MIKE BROUGHTON, KEVIN WILSON. REALTOR/APPRENTICE London, KY Somerset, KY Mt. Vernon, KY
Trooper David Lassiter served Heather Ann was sworn out by Eversole. AUCTIONEERS: VERLAN OWENS, MIKE McCOLLOM, DOUG KING, 606-878-7111 606-679-2212 606-256-4545
Morgan, 34, of 453 Frankfort School Road, Eversole allegedly had to have seven stitch- REALTOR BARRY TURNER. APPRENTICE AUCTIONEER: DAVID CASADA. 800-526-9430
with an arrest warrant charging her with sec- es in his arm as a result of the injury.
A-6 — NEWS JOURNAL — JANUARY 4, 2012
Looking back at 2011…
2011:
Former
Sheriff among
top stories, again
From the front page
between two students, ages 15 and 16 years old.
Bunch rushed over to break up the fight and ran right into
one of the punches, which knocked him to the ground where
he also banged his head on the hard floor.
Bunch had blood coming from his ears due to a traumatic
brain injury. Later at the hospital doctors told his family that
he had only a 5 percent chance of living, but he beat the odds.
Bunch is currently in a rehabilitation facility still trying to
recover from his injuries.
On Oct. 26, his family resigned his position as state rep-
resentative. Nearly a week later, his wife, Regina Bunch,
announced her intentions to seek the nomination to replace
her husband as state representative.
She was the unanimous choice, and was uncontested during
the Dec. 20 special election.
Two other teachers were also assaulted while breaking up
the fight, but no one else was injured.
The two teenagers were charged with felony assault, and
their charges are still pending in juvenile court.
2) Lawrence Hodge and associates
For the third straight year in a row, former Whitley County
Sheriff and current federal prison inmate Lawrence Hodge has
notoriously cracked the top 10 list for the year. Last year he
grabbed the top spot, and in 2009, he grabbed the number five
spot.
In late 2010, a special called Whitley County Grand Jury
indicted Hodge following a nearly six-month investigation on
charges of abuse of the public trust and theft.
Hodge left office at the end of 2010, but by March he was
making headlines again when the details of a federal affidavit
were revealed alleging that Hodge had illegally bought drugs
while sheriff, and that he received drugs from area drug deal-
ers in exchange for not busting them. Old and new: Above, work-
The affidavit also revealed that Hodge allegedly orchestrat- ers removed 15 large, artis-
ed the December 2009 break-in at his courthouse office where tically painted trains from
several guns were stolen, and that he later sold or traded guns downtown Corbin, the end of
taken from his own department. an 18-month public art proj-
Days later, Williamsburg lawyer Ron Reynolds, who had ect undertaken by the town’s
been a friend of Hodge’s since childhood, pleaded guilty in Main Street Program. Some
federal court to taking part in a conspiracy with Hodge to of the trains, which were all
extort money from clients Hodge would refer to Reynolds in decorated by local artists,
exchange for lenient sentences. were later sold at an auction
In July, a federal judge sentenced Reynolds to 27 months in to benefit the program. At left,
prison. students and faculty at Lynn
In May, Hodge pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of Camp High School attempted
extortion, drug trafficking and money laundering, which all to set a world record last year
took place during his two terms in office. by playing a game of Rummy
U.S. District Judge Gregory Van Tatenhove sentenced with the largest playing cards
Hodge to 15.5 years in prison, ordered him to forfeit $50,000 ever used in such a game.
to the federal government, and ordered him to pay $64,897 in The event took place in the
restitution to the Whitley County Fiscal Court. school gymnasium and gar-
Hodge admitted that he conspired with a former bookkeep- nered quite a lot of statewide
er, Vicky Paul, to embezzle nearly $65,000 from the sheriff’s media attention.
department.
Paul also pleaded guilty in federal court, and in September
Photos by TRENT KNUCKLES
was sentenced to six months in prison and six months of home
and MARK WHITE
incarceration.
Additional state audits of Hodge’s books, which were
released last year, showed a total deficit of more than
$240,000.
Whitley County Attorney Don Moses announced in
December that he was filing an action with Hodge’s bonding
company in an attempt to recover at least $200,000 of that
money.
Hodge’s charges in state court are still pending.
3) Whitley County Jailer
The position of Whitley County Jailer made headlines
almost immediately from the start of 2011 lasting throughout
most of the year.
Newly elected Jailer Les Moses, who had defeated Ken
Mobley in the 2010 May Primary Election, took over on Jan.
2.
After only eight days on the job, Moses resigned in large
part because the jail and the county were in worse financial
shape than he had envisioned, which would prevent him from
delivering on several campaign promises that he had made.
Moses asked Whitley County Judge-Executive Pat White
Jr. to appoint Mobley back to the job, which White did on a
interim basis.
Moses later mulled seeking the job again, but in the end
decided not to do so.
Although several people sought the Republican nomination,
Mobley was the nominee for the November special election
against Democrat Joe Fuson.
A record number of nine write-in candidates filed to run for
the position, but Mobley ultimately garnered more votes than
all his opponents combined in the November special election.
In October, controversy erupted at the jail after Whitley
County Deputy Sheriff Cody Harrell cited Deputy Jailer
Donald L. McElroy, 32, of Williamsburg, for false imprison-
ment after McElroy wouldn’t let Harrell out of the jail in a
timely manner.
Head over heels: Above, Michael Fox and Dylan Bell flipped head over heels on the bounce slide during Old Fashioned Trading
Deputy jailers refused to accept Johnny Satterfield until he
Days in September. Below left, 2011 Miss NIBROC Allison Chumbley presided over the NIBROC Parade in August. Below right,
was taken to the hospital and cleared medically, and wouldn’t
Sheriff Colan Harrell shows off some of the surplus military firearms, which he was able to secure for his department this year.
unlock the door for Harrell to leave until he took Satterfield
with him. This lasted for over five minutes.
Jail officials contended Satterfield was so intoxicated that
he couldn’t keep his eyes open, answer medical questions or
stand up.
“As to Donald McElroy, he did what I told him and what he
has been trained to do,” Mobley said.
Eventually, Harrell loaded Satterfield into the back of his
cruiser, and deputy jailers opened the Sally Port doors so that
Harrell could pull out in his police cruiser. After he pulled
out, Harrell cited Satterfield and turned him loose in the jail’s
parking lot.
4) Bad Hair Bandit
From June 9 through Dec. 1, a thief nicknamed “The Bad
Hair Bandit” by the FBI because of wigs and various disguis-
es that he wore, robbed seven banks in Southeastern Kentucky
and Northern Tennessee.
The day after he robbed the L&N Federal Credit Union in
Williamsburg on Dec. 1, Williamsburg Police identified the
Bad Hair Bandit as Jason D. Fox, 30, of 23 King Mountain
Spur Road.
Barbourville police spotted him at a traffic light, and arrest-
ed him that afternoon.
Fox later confessed to being the Bad Hair Bandit, and to
robbing banks in Jacksboro, Corbin, Jellico, Barbourville,
Pine Knot and Williamsburg, according to Williamsburg
Police Chief Wayne Bird.
On Dec. 14, a federal grand jury indicted Fox, and his
wife, Tasha Fox, 27, for armed bank robbery in the Dec. 1
Williamsburg robbery.
Bird said that Tasha Fox confessed to being the getaway
driver in the Williamsburg robbery and at least two more rob-
beries.
Continued on page A-7
NEWS JOURNAL —JANUARY 4, 2012 — A-7
2011:
Year in Review continued from A-6
From page A-6
On Dec. 20, authorities
used sonar and a magnet to
recover the gun, which they
Online Degree Programs
believe was used in the rob-
beries, from a local pond. Enrolling Now!
5) BRMC cuts staff by
more than 10 percent
- Health Care Administration
Through a combination of
- Medical Assisting
layoffs and leaving vacant
positions unfilled, Baptist - Medical Coding
Regional Medical Center cut - Psychology
117 positions in an effort to
trim $5 million from its annu-
al operating budget.
The cuts, which took place
in May and June, included Call today!
59 layoffs from departments 800-639-6398
throughout the facility.
www.midwayworks.com
John Henson, who as the
hospital’s CEO at the time,
MidwayCollege is an equal opportunity institution.
said the labor cuts were nec-
essary because labor costs
I’m Alive...
make up about half of the
hospital’s annual operating
budget.
“We could have done sal-
ary cuts across the board,
because someone
but we wanted to negatively
impact as few people as pos-
like YOU joined
sible,” John Henson said at
the time. “If we had elected Photo by DEAN MANNING the Kentucky
to do an across the board cut, Saying ‘yes’ to no smoking: Supporters of an anti-smoking ordinance in Corbin showed their
we would have had 1,100 support for the measure at a meeting of the Corbin City Commission late last year. The measure Organ Donor
people trying to figure out passed and went into effect Jan. 1.
how they are going to make Registry
ends meet.” Center, which was five added that when Lexington staff weeks to put together
Henson added that no years in the making, offi- and Louisville enacted their an inventory of even basic AAt 3 months old, Levi’s parents
department was exempt from cially opened for business on smoking bans, they exempt- equipment ranging from how wwere told he would not live
the staff cuts. However, cuts Halloween. ed Keenland and Churchill many guns there were to the wwithout a life-saving organ
were not based on seniority Whitley District Judge Downs race tracks, respec- number of working vehicles ttransplant. He’s alive because
but on job performance. Cathy Prewitt presided over tively. As a result, both cit- in the department, of which sssomeone like you said “yes” to
“The 59 were chosen by the first court session held ies have been forced to fight there weren’t many. organ donation. Now, Levi is a
comparing performance in the new facility. The first lawsuits filed by businesses This isn’t even including happy 3-year-old. He loves to
appraisals, attendance and case called was civil case that did not receive similar the overall level of cleanliness run, jump and swim.
what area,” Henson said. number 08-C-00383 involv- exemptions. that existed in the office.
Please give $1.00
“We had a outside consul- ing Houston Funding II vs. At the second reading of To add insult to injury, Supported
tant come in to help deter- Renee Leach. Prewitt con- the ordinance, Gregory joined Harrell started out on day one to promote organ by
donation when you
mine what areas we could tinued the challenge to a gar- Mayor Willard McBurney with zero money to operate
www.trustforlife.org renew your driver’s
afford to downsize and still nishment until Nov. 15. and the commissioners in vot- with, not even enough to buy
give the care our patients Over 200 people, including ing for the ordinance, which a receipt book during his first 866-945-5433 license.
expect,” Henson said. local dignitaries, attended the went into effect at midnight day in business.
While there is no lack of official dedication ceremony Jan. 1. However, the community
patients coming through the for the new center on Nov. McBurney said Tuesday rallied to help out Harrell and
hospital’s doors, Henson 2. that there have been no prob- his department.
explained that the hospital’s “This building will be lems reported with instituting Police agencies from across
financial problems stem from here for the next 50, 75, 100 the new ordinance. Kentucky and elsewhere
the chronic health problems years. We don’t know how donated used police cruisers
of the people in Southeastern long it is going to last, but 9) Corbin City Manager for the department to use.
Kentucky and the poor eco- this is the day that people Bill Ed Cannon resigns Whitley County High
nomic conditions. can remember being here for Days after it came to light School vocational students
Out of $24 million in char- many years, the day that we that he was among the Knox pitched in to help with re-
ity charges written off in the dedicated the new Whitley County property owners striping of the vehicles along
Baptist Healthcare System, County Judicial Center,” said delinquent on their tax bills, with Wynn Fire Equipment.
BRMC accounts for $9 mil- Whitley Circuit Court Clerk Bill Ed Cannon submitted his Harrell said that Steve Hart,
lion, while producing five Gary Barton. resignation as Corbin City who owns The Outdoorsman,
percent of the system’s rev- The Kentucky General Manager. called him the day after he
enue. Assembly authorized con- “Please accept my sincere heard on television about the
“That is 40 percent of struction of the new Whitley thanks for the opportunity shortage of guns. CUMBERLAND FALLS HWY, CORBIN, KY
the system’s total charity,” County Judicial Center in you gave me to work with “He said, ‘I just cannot
Henson noted. 2006, and approved its fund- you for the past 13 years; and sleep knowing you all don’t SCHEDULE FOR JANUARY 6TH - 12TH
With both the health and ing two years later. the personal closeness and have enough guns,’” Harrell FRI. & SAT. ONLY FRI. & SAT. ONLY
financial not likely to change The judicial center consists the consideration and sup- recalls.
in the near future, Henson of approximately 57,300 port shown by the Citizens Hart had Harrell come to THE DEVIL INSIDE R 2:10 4:10 7:00 9:05 11:15
said Baptist Healthcare square feet, and includes of Corbin and the politi- his store, and donated several
System officials are realistic space for circuit and dis- cal leaders that I have been .40 caliber Glock pistols so ALVIN & THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED G 2:15 4:15 7:10 9:10 11:10
about the expectations for the trict court, the office for the privileged to work beside,” every officer had one in addi-
hospital. Circuit Court Clerk, and Cannon stated in the letter tion to 10 rechargeable flash- WAR HORSE PG13 1:45 4:30 7:15 11:00
“If BRMC can break even ancillary services. he submitted to the commis- lights, and ammunition. WE BOUGHT A ZOO PG 2:00 4:25 6:55 9:20 11:40
next year, it would be a good Whitley County Judge- sioners in August. The Henderson County
year,” Henson said. Executive Pat White Jr. noted However, neither Corbin Sheriff’s Department MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: GHOST PROTOCOL PG13 1:50 4:20 6:50 9:20 11:45
that the project was com- Mayor Willard McBurney donated four shotguns, and
6) Nibroc “Just Lose It” pleted more than $1.5 million nor any of the four commis- the Rockcastle Sheriff’s SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS PG13 1:55 4:25 6:55 9:20 11:45
contestants drop 1860 under the original projected sioners would comment on Department donated seven
pounds in five months cost. whether the delinquent taxes shotguns to the department. GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO R 4:00 7:00 11:00
While thousands who had any bearing on Cannon’s In March, the Williamsburg THE DARKEST HOUR 3D PG13 4:15 9:15
packed Main Street in down- 8) Smoking ban passes resignation. Firestone plant donated 32
town Corbin were enjoying a in Corbin Cannon owed more than tires to the sheriff’s depart- THE DARKEST HOUR PG13 2:10 7:05 11:15
variety of fare including deep Citing his first-hand experi- $4,500 dating back to 2001. ment.
fried Snickers, gyros, ham- ence working with individu- Within days of the story “Without the outpouring of 2:00 SHOWTIMES ARE GOOD FOR FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY ONLY
11:00 PM SHOWTIMES ON FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS ONLY
burgers and hotdogs at the als who are suffering the neg- breaking, officials in the generosity, we would have
SHOWTIME INFORMATION - 528-1505
annual Nibroc Festival, 188 ative effects of smoking and Knox County Clerk’s Office been really hurting. This just
SHOWTIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
people were making that final exposure to tobacco smoke, said Cannon came into the tells you that the people want
www.tricountycineplex.com
push in the inaugural “Nibroc Corbin City Commissioner office and paid everything law enforcement,” Harrell
Just Lose It” competition. Joe Shelton proposed and that could be paid in their noted.
The top 20 took to the stage the Corbin City Commission office to settle the delinquen-
on Aug. 13 to see which one approved an ordinance ban- cies.
had dropped the greatest per- ning smoking at all indoor The status of two other (cid:39)(cid:76)(cid:74)(cid:81)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:82)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:68)(cid:86)(cid:86)(cid:76)(cid:82)(cid:81)
centage of body weight. public places within the city bills is unclear as they had
In the end, Jennifer Tackett, limits. been purchased by Tax Ease
who lost 21.32 percent of her “My main objective is get Lien Servicing, LLC. Those (cid:52)(cid:88)(cid:68)(cid:79)(cid:76)(cid:87)(cid:92)(cid:3)(cid:38)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:72)
body weight, was declared the kids away from this,” said bills totaled $923.55.
the winner, beating Darren Shelton, who works as a phy- While Cannon resigned
Shelley by .76 percent. sician’s assistant, noting that the position, Corbin City (cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:72)(cid:3)(cid:87)(cid:75)(cid:76)(cid:81)(cid:74)(cid:86)(cid:3)(cid:92)(cid:82)(cid:88)(cid:3)(cid:71)(cid:72)(cid:86)(cid:72)(cid:85)(cid:89)(cid:72)
Tackett said she and her most restaurants in Corbin Commissioners approved
husband, Donald, were moti- offer “smoking” and “non- an agreement for Cannon to
vated to get up, get moving smoking” sections, but that remain as an on-call consul- (cid:11)(cid:25)(cid:19)(cid:25)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:24)(cid:21)(cid:22)(cid:16)(cid:22)(cid:19)(cid:28)(cid:19)
and get the weight off by does not keep the smoke in tant with the city for the next (cid:11)(cid:27)(cid:26)(cid:26)(cid:12)(cid:3)(cid:27)(cid:19)(cid:26)(cid:16)(cid:22)(cid:19)(cid:20)(cid:20)
their 1-year-old grandson. that area and employees are three months.
(cid:90)(cid:90)(cid:90)(cid:17)(cid:75)(cid:82)(cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:76)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:69)(cid:74)(cid:17)(cid:82)(cid:85)(cid:74)
“We wanted to be able to forced to work in that area. Cannon was “on-call” to
chase after him,” Jennifer The first reading the ordi- city officials during that time.
Tackett said. nance passed by a vote of However, he continued to be
Whitley County Healthy
As it came down to the last 4-1, with Commissioner Phil paid the same salary, $78,000
two weeks, Jennifer Tackett Gregory casting the lone that he received as city man-
said she began to struggle “no” vote. ager. In addition, he contin-
Communities & Tri-County Clear
again as she focused more “More and more, the gov- ued to receive his benefits
on doing what she had to do ernment is telling us what to and vacation, though he was
to win. do,” Gregory said of his vote. not be eligible for sick pay.
the Air Coalition invite you to
“The hardest thing was the “I don’t know of a public Corbin Mayor Willard
food,” Tackett said. “It seemed place where you can smoke. McBurney said there were
like we gave up everything Who is it that needs this?” a number of grant applica-
a community health forum on
but meat and lettuce.” Also at that meeting was tions in which Cannon was
Though the contest is over John Mullins who owns involved as well as other
Tackett said she will continue Bingo Zone on Falls Hwy. projects on the table.
on the fitness path. Mullins was asking the com- On Dec. 28, Michael SECONDHAND SMOKE
“We are trying to change mission to include an exemp- Phillips of Greenville, SC
our lives,” Tackett said. “This tion for bingo establishments, was introduced as the new
is just the beginning for us.” noting that he spent $80,000 city manager.
Rounding out the top five on an air filter system. In When: January 12, 2012
were Christopher Lipps, addition, he offers smoking 10) Colan Harrell takes
Trent Knuckles and Rebecca and non-smoking sections office Time: 6:00 p.m.
Warren. that are completely separate When newly elected
Though Tackett declined and that are serviced by sepa- Whitley County Sheriff Where: City Hall in Williamsburg
to reveal how many pounds rate heating and air condi- Colan Harrell took office
she lost, Roberta Webb, who tioning systems. on Jan. 2, he inherited what
Express your concerns and opinions about a Smoke-free Ordinance for the City of
chaired the competition, “Second hand smoke is not can best be described as a
noted that the contestants lost an issue,” Mullins said. mess from his predecessor Williamsburg and learn more about this issue from a panel of experts that will be available.
a combined 1860 pounds. Shelton said he is against Lawrence Hodge.
Webb said the event will any such exemptions. “It’s not like in some sher- Moderator: Adam Sulfridge
return in 2012 with the goal Commissioner Joe “Butch” iff’s departments and the
Panelists will include: Dr. David Williams M.D.,
of making it bigger and bet- White responded that if administration changes and
ter. the ordinance includes any all you do is say, ‘Here is Mindy Rogers (Kentucky Cancer Program), Dr. Vazey (Pulmonologist),
exemptions, the commission the key that fits this car.’ It is
Brandi Gilley (Laurel County Health Department).
7) Justice Center Opens is opening the city to a law- somewhat different,” Harrell
The new $17 million suit. noted.
For more information call Kathy Lay, 549-3380
Whitley County Judicial Mayor Willard McBurney It took Harrell and his
A-8 — NEWS JOURNAL — JANUARY 4, 2012 News Journal
Local Business
Williamsburg Trent Knuckles, Business Editor ([email protected]) Corbin
Retail food costs slip downward
Marketbasket Survey shows roughly one percent decrease in last quarter of 2011
■ Staff Report The Marketbasket survey’s top five average price decreases gy costs have gone up 12.4 percent while gasoline prices have
for the News Journal reported for items in the fourth quarter of 2011 were: increased by 19.7 percent over the last 12 months.
Despite the rise in retail food prices experienced nation-
ITEM SEP 2011 DEC 2011 PRICE DECREASE wide, Americans continue to enjoy some of the lowest food
The latest Marketbasket Survey, conducted by the Kentucky Idaho Potatoes $4.82 / 10 lbs. $3.98 / 10 lbs. -$0.84 / 10 lbs., or -17.4%
prices in the world and spend only about 10 percent of their
Farm Bureau Federation in December 2011, indicates that Vanilla Ice Cream $3.64 / 1/2-gal. $3.12 / 1/2-gal. -$0.52 / 1/2-gal., or -14.3%
Whole Smoked Ham $2.95 / lb. $2.55 / lb. -$0.40 / lb., or -13.6% disposable income on food each year. U.S. food costs remain
average retail food prices in supermarkets across the state have
Red Delicious Apples $1.76 / lb. $1.46 / lb. -$0.30 / lb., or -17.0% far lower than that of other countries thanks in large part to
decreased by 1 percent during this last quarter. According Whole Fryers $1.37 / lb. $1.08 / lb. -$0.29 / lb., or -21.2%
agricultural efficiencies utilized in America. Putting those
to the survey, the total cost of 40 basic grocery items was The Marketbasket survey’s top five average price increases
efficiencies to use currently allows the average U.S. farmer
$115.90. This reflects a decrease of $1.16, or 1 percent, from reported for items in the fourth quarter of 2011 were:
to produce enough food and fiber to provide for about 154
the same list of items reported in the previous quarter.
ITEM SEP 2011 DEC 2011 PRICE INCREASE people. In 1980 each farmer only produced enough food and
While the Marketbasket Survey now reports two consecu-
Rib-Eye Steak $9.59 / lb. $10.37 / lb. +$0.78 / lb., +8.1% fiber for 115 people, and that output drops to just 19 people
tive quarters with decreasing prices to close out the year, the Idaho Potatoes $4.44 / 10 lbs. $4.82 / 10 lbs. +$0.38 / 10 lbs., or +8.6%
when looking back to 1940.
fourth quarter total for 2011 is still $6.69, or 6.1 percent, Mild Cheddar Cheese $4.42 / lb. $4.91 / lb. +$0.49 / lb., or +11.1%
Cut-Up Fryers $1.68 / lb. $1.98 / lb. +$0.30 / lb., or +17.9% Yet while more food is now being produced on less land,
higher than the same reporting period in 2010, and $10.62, or
American Cheese $3.39 / 24 slices $3.67 / 24 slices +$0.28 / lb., or +8.3% the farmer’s share of the retail food dollar in America is down.
10.1 percent, higher than the third quarter of 2009. White Bread $1.39 / lb. $1.67 / lb. +$0.28 / lb., or +20.1%
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s new Food
Additionally, the average Marketbasket Survey total from
Dollar Series, a farmer earns less than 16 cents per dollar
all four quarters of 2011 was $116.34 – an increase of $9.39, While Kentucky retail food prices in 2011 mirrored national
spent on food, down significantly from the 31 cents earned as
or 8.8 percent, over the previous year’s average total of trends and increased noticeably during the first half of the
recently as 1980.
$106.95. year, the fourth quarter’s 1 percent decrease deviates slightly
Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation has conducted its region-
Of the six food groups recorded in the survey – beef, dairy, from what has been reported nationwide. Based on the U.S.
al Marketbasket survey over the past four decades as a tool to
fruits and vegetables, grain, pork, and poultry – the fruits and Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics’ most recent
reflect local retail food pricing trends and their relationship to
vegetables category showed the greatest total decrease with an Consumer Price Index data released in mid-December (which
what farmers receive for raw commodities. Cities reporting on
average price drop of 7.0 percent. The beef category made the reflects figures through November 2011), national food prices
the Kentucky Farm Bureau Marketbasket Survey for the fourth
largest average increase of 1.9 percent. Idaho potatoes had the increased by 0.1 percent in the last reported month and
quarter of 2011 include: Augusta, Bardstown, Bowling Green,
greatest single-item decrease with an average price drop of climbed a total of 4.6 percent over the past 12 months.
Brandenburg, Campbellsville, Danville, Eddyville, Elkton,
$0.84 per 10 lbs, and the highest single-item increase was rib- Though food prices have a myriad of market factors that
Flemingsburg, Gamaliel, Glasgow, Grayson, Harrodsburg,
eye steak, climbing an average of $0.78 per pound. Overall, impact total retail pricing, many price boosts can be directly
Hopkinsville, Lexington, Louisville, Madisonville, Mayfield,
20 of the 40 items in this survey experienced decreases in linked to the necessary role that energy and transportation
Munfordville, Owensboro, Owingsville, Powderly, Richmond,
average price, one was unchanged (1-lb. whole wheat bread), have in food production – and their associated changes in
Russellville, Somerset and Walton.
and 19 items increased. cost, too. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that all ener-
Nursing home group
NEW YEAR NEWBORN
wants panel to review
all potential lawsuits
“A long-term care industry group wants a new law in
Kentucky that would create medical review panels to evalu-
able potential lawsuits against nursing homes, personal care
homes and some facilities for the intellectually and develop-
mentally disabled,” reports Valarie Honeycutt Spears of the
Lexington Herald-Leader.
The panel would be made up of three physicians and chaired
by an attorney who would not be allowed to vote. The panel’s
findings would be admissible in court. The panel would
“help eliminate frivolous lawsuits against the long-term care
industry,” said Ruby Jo Cummins Lubarsky, president of the
Kentucky Association of Health Care Facilities. “Kentucky’s
long-term care profession has seen a drastic increase in litiga-
tion from lawyers whose sole practice has been limited to tar-
geting our nursing facilities. Their primary tactic is to exploit
the integrity of our survey process with misleading advertise-
ments designed to alarm the public about a supposed failure
to provide quality care in our facilities.”
The Kentucky Justice Association, formerly the Kentucky
Academy of Trial Attorneys, is against the proposal because
it “makes nursing home corporations less accountable for
the neglect and abuse of Kentucky’s elderly citizens,” said
Maresa Fawns, the association’s executive director. Bernie
Vonderheide, founder of Kentuckians for Nursing Home
Photo submitted Reform, is also opposed, saying the formation of medical
Welcome to 2012: The first baby born in 2012 at Baptist Regional Medical Center was Alaina Marie Kilgore on January review panels is “blatantly unfair to residents of nursing
2, 2012, at 6:39 am, weighing 5 lbs, 15.5 oz to Maggie Neese and Aaron Kilgore. The following businesses donated itams homes.”
for the New Year’s Baby this year: Shea’s Fine Jewelry, Baptist Regional Medical Center Gift Shop, Dollar Mart, Sonic, The proposal has not yet been filed for the 2012 General
Applebee’s, Walmart- Corbin, Corbin Flower Shop, Arby’s, Nestle, Fashion Gallery, Fashion Palace, POSH Boutique, Assembly. House Speaker Greg Stumbo, a lawyer, has said he
Princerella’s, Brookhaven Christian Books, Carousel Florist and Sew Fine Embroidery and Gifts. Pictured left to right, are: “would never support any measure that would deny a person
Row 1: Maggie Neese and Alaina Kilgore, Row 2: Michelle McKinney, Amy Jackson, James Hourigan, Mallory Head and his or her day in court if injured,” but added he understands
Jayne Head, Row 3: Donna Davenport, Rhonda Taylor, Kelly Burton, Tammy Wilson and Aaron Kilgore. “that small, rural nursing homes are in extreme jeopardy
because of out-of-state predatory law firms. Given that, the
only responsible thing is to gather information on the issue
and keep an open mind.”
Ways to make your credit cards work for you
If you’re like most people, your mail- widely from company to com- ance when you travel. Others much of the total as you can so you’re
box is overflowing with credit card pany. Know what you’re get- provide an extended warranty not incurring interest charges, which
offers. Before you shred the next ting. on certain purchases. Know can really accumulate and are not gen-
batch, take a look and see what the Skinny down your wallet. the details so you can take full erally tax deductible.
credit card companies are offering Once you’ve added a new card advantage.
these days. You might find a deal that’s you might want to consider Don’t forget to redeem. Pay on time. Know when your pay-
better than what you already have closing older accounts. Closing As you start piling up points, ment is due and get that bill paid on
stuck in your wallet.
accounts that have higher don’t forget to use them. Some time, allowing plenty of time for the
Companies are offering everything
fees or interest rates can save rewards will have an expira- mail to get there or for online transfers
from airline miles to groceries to elec- DDoollllaarrss aanndd SSeennssee
money. However, there can be tion date on them. Don’t lose to take place. On-time payments will
tronics as incentives for using their
drawbacks to closing estab- WWeeeekkllyy aaddvviiccee oonn hhooww ttoo bbeetttteerr out on the very benefits you keep you from incurring late fees, keep
particular credit card. Find the card lished credit card accounts. mmaannaaggee yyoouurr mmoonneeyy signed up for in the first place. your interest to a minimum, and keep
and benefits that are right for you
Understand the potential your credit score looking good.
and you can rack up some really nice impact on your credit score before you Smart money
rewards. A few tips for success: close down old accounts that have a While you’re enjoying the benefits Shop around, reap the rewards
Find the perfect card. So which good history. and rewards of your credit card, be A lot has been written about the per-
card is going to be “your” card? That sure to heed these additional tips: ils of credit cards and the debt people
depends. What benefits are you look- Access to low interest funds. If Avoid unnecessary fees. Make sure can amass by using them. But credit
ing for? Do you want to collect airline you need ready access to cash, many you know about and understand any cards can also provide some excellent
miles for a trip? Do you want to receive credit card companies offer no inter- late payment or over-the-limit fees. You benefits that can help you achieve your
rewards from a particular store or ven- est, or very low interest rates called may also incur fees for cash advances goals, whether that’s travel or a little
dor? Maybe you want cash back on teaser rates, for a certain length of time and balance transfers. Some compa- cash back in your pocket at the end of
each purchase instead. Fortunately, on cash advances. Carefully check the nies may even charge a fee if you pay the month. For more advice on credit
there are many choices out there and terms on your card, but don’t overlook by phone or online. Know the terms of cards and personal financial planning,
with a little research you can find a this option for accessing funds when your card and stick to them. talk to a CPA.
card that suits your needs. you need them. Don’t just make the minimum Dollars and Sense is contributed by
Compare offers. Don’t jump to sign Fringe benefits. Many credit cards payment. It may look great on paper the Kentucky Society of CPAs to help
up for the first offer that looks good. come with extra benefits most people that you only owe $25 for last month’s readers with financial matters. For a
Be sure to read the fine print because don’t use or even know about. Some shopping spree, but ideally, you’ll pay referral to a CPA in your area, go to
interest rates, annual fees, payment offer additional car or accident insur- your bill off each month or pay as www.kycpa.org.
terms and reward redemption will vary
NEWS JOURNAL —JANUARY 4, 2012 — A-9
HODGE: O’NEIL FUNERAL HOME
Effectiveness of collection
HAS BEEN SOLD.
As a result I (Curt Dizney) have
efforts have no bearing on sentence
been let go.
I would like to thank everyone who
From the front page is due. potato chips through his prison com- allowed me to serve them during the
Each U.S. Attorney has a “financial missary account. This got investigators
past several years.
case like whether his home and other litigation unit” whose sole purpose it is curious.
assets can be seized.’ to collect debts (restitution, fines, etc.) In response, Todd Tremaine, a Special It was an honor and privilege.
“Right now, there’s nothing in the owed to the government or victims of Agent with the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol,
record that talks about our effort in col- crime. Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Again, thank you,
lecting Mr. Hodge’s debt in this case,” Some common strategies: investigated and found that while at
Curt Dizney
Edelen said. • Filing liens on any real property the Grayson County Detention Center,
“We are only allowed to comment on (land, a house, etc.) that a defendant has Hodge actually spent around $600 from
what’s in the public record.” an interest in or a future interest in. his commissary account. The money
Now Hear This
But Edelen did provide some general • The debt can be submitted to a was being deposited through money
information about restitution collection Department of Treasury and any funds orders sent by his mother, Ruth Hodge,
efforts. that person receives, like a tax refund, his brother, James Hodge, his son, Basil
Firstly, collection can be a time con- would be intercepted. R. Hodge and/or Taylor Landscaping.
suming process. • Wages can be garnished once some- Taylor landscaping is owned by a known
Ear anatomy may
“We have the time period of a defen- one is released from prison if they are friend and associate of Hodge, Larry
Carolyn
dant’s incarceration plus 20 years to employed. Taylor. amplify irritating
obtain full restitution,” Edelen noted. • Oftentimes, payment plans are estab- Despite his opulent spending through Reeves, tones of
“Sometimes we are able to collect the lished for those who owe restitution. his commissary account, Hodge has yet Hearing
chalkboard squeak
debt very quickly and other times it takes Retirement accounts can also be gar- to pay any of the restitution he was
Specialist
years. Our efforts to collect restitution nished. ordered to make, according to the affi-
doesn’t’ impact a defendant’s sentence.” “This doesn’t represent all of our davit.
The sound of fi ngernails on a chalkboard sets many people’s teeth
Hodge was given a 15.5-year prison efforts to collect debt. Forfeiture and res- A search warrant was granted under on edge. Researchers think they know why. In a study designed to pin-
term for his crimes. Since there is no titution are complicated issues,” Edelen the assumption that some of the money point the source of this and similarly irritating sounds, scientists found
parole in the federal system, anyone noted. “Hopefully, this gives a general stolen from Sheriff’s Dept. accounts that the most obnoxious elements of the noises may be amplifi ed by
convicted of a crime must serve at least idea.” may be hidden in Ruth Hodge’s home, the shape of the human ear.
85 percent of a sentence. According to an affidavit filed in U.S. but federal agents failed to find any In the study, scientists removed information from actual audio clips
Assuming that Hodge were released District Court in London last Sept., an money or records regarding criminal of people scraping their nails or bits of chalk against a chalkboard.
at the earliest opportunity - after serving informant told police that Hodge had activity at the residence. Two outbuild- They then played these modifi ed clips to willing participants. Half the
158 months behind bars - prosecutors been spending upwards of $300 to $400 ings on her property were also searched study subjects were told what the sounds were; the other half thought
have a little over 33 years to collect what a month buying things like soda and to no avail. that they were listening to selections from contemporary music. Sci-
entists asked the participants to rate each sound’s unpleasantness, and
also gauged the subjects’ stress responses to the noises by measuring
their blood pressure, heart rate, and skin conductivity (a measure of
JUMP: sweating).
Vehicles abandoned along roadways
The human ear is known to be particularly sensitive to pitches in the
mid- to low-level range of frequencies, between 2000 hertz and 4000
hertz, which is the peak of human hearing. It turns out that when sci-
From the front page caused numerous wrecks and left motorists crawling along. entists removed all the pitch information in this range from the audio
According to records from Corbin 911, Corbin Police recordings, the study participants rated the noises as more pleasant
exit 29 included a tractor-trailer truck hauling diesel fuel. responded to two accidents with injuries and 14 non-injury than other versions of the sounds. One explanation for people’s sensi-
According to Steve Douglas, spokesperson for Kentucky accidents between 4 p.m. Monday and 2 a.m. Tuesday. tivity to this band of frequencies is that sounds in this range are ampli-
State Police Division of Commercial Vehicle Enforcement, Multiple vehicles remained abandoned along the roadways fi ed due to the anatomy of the ear canal; they are literally louder to us
William B. Smith, 51, of Gate City, Va. Lost control of the Tuesday morning. than other sounds are. So chalkboard squeak may be irksome because
truck and hit a Chevy Cavalier driving by Lisa Estep, 49, of Corbin Public Works Director Gary Kelly said because state the most obnoxious elements of the sound sit right in the sweet spot
Corbin. As a result, Estep’s car slid into Shirley M. Laing’s highway crews were unable to reach state roads in Corbin of human hearing.
Ford Thunderbird. including Master Street, Kentucky Ave. and Main Street,
Brought to you as a community service by
The tank on the trailer was ruptured, spilling about 3,000 Corbin road crews made those roads a priority, but trying to
Hearing
gallons of fuel oil onto the roadway. work around the traffic and the wrecks made the job that much
“It is used as heating oil and to power farm machinery,” more difficult.
Douglas explained. Kelly and his crew of six worked continuously to get the
With the interstate backed up, motorist sought alternate roads clear and keep them clear. He estimated it was after Aid Center
routes, primarily U.S. 25W through downtown Corbin. midnight before the crews finally had a handle on it.
Corbin Police Major Rob Jones, the department’s public “Nobody was expecting this,” Kelly said. “The forecast was
105 S. Main Street, Corbin, KY - 528-1136
affairs officer, said the amount of traffic and the black ice for flurries.”
FIRE: Fire Chief thinks fire started Introducing
around washer and dryer area
the smart way
From the front page called 911. By the time we got out that house
was full of smoke.”
repairman worked on the dryer Friday. Williamsburg Fire Chief James Privett said to save.
“It wouldn’t work, and he came back this smoke was rolling out from the eaves of the
morning and worked on it,” Welch said. “I house when about a dozen firefighters arrived
threw a load of towels in there, but it wouldn’t at the 215 South Second Street residence
work.” about 1:43 p.m.
Welch said she thought she smelled smoke, Privett said that the electrical fire started
but looked in the dryer and behind it, but around the washer and dryer area, and then
didn’t see anything until she went upstairs spread up the back wall into the attic area of NEW
to get a box to store some Christmas decora- the two-story, wood-framed home. The home
tions. suffered minor fire damage and smoke and
“When I got up there, it was full of smoke. water damage throughout. SaveUp
So I came back down really quick and told her “We’re very lucky. I’m sure glad this wasn’t
to get a good warm coat and to get her shoes a two or three a.m. fire,” Privett added.
on because we had to get out,” Welch said. “I No one was injured during the blaze.
air purifier
It’s simple. Look for the NEWS JOURNAL The smart savings program.
ENERGY STAR® to reduce
your home energy use. CHRISTMAS COLORING
CONTEST WINNERS
To learn more, go to What do you want to save up for? Vacation? Home improvements?
energystar.gov.
6 & BELOW DIVISION Education expenses? Now there’s an easy, automatic way
EMILY HOLCOMB - 1ST PLACE to save–SaveUp! All you need is a Forcht Bank checking account,
MCKYAH BOOKER - 2ND PLACE savings account, and Debit Mastercard. Then every time you
use your debit card, we’ll round up the purchase amount to the
7 & ABOVE DIVISION
next dollar and transfer the difference from your checking account
DAVID ROWE - 1ST PLACE
to your savings account.
YOUR HOME CAN CAUSE TWICE AS GRANT MORTON - 2ND PLACE
MANY GREENHOUSE GASES AS A CAR.
It’s the easy, automatic, smarter way to save–SaveUp!
ENERGY STAR® is sponsored Prize money will be mailed within 5 to 10 business days.
bENy EtRhGeY UST.SA.R E®n ivs isrpoonnmsoerendt al
Pbyr o thtee cUt.iSo. nEn Avigroennmceyn taaln d the 1ST PLACE WINNERS WILL RECEIVE $50.00
Protection Agency and the 2ND PLACE WINNERS WILL RECEIVE $25.00
UU..SS. .D Depeaprtamretmnt eofn Etn oefr gEyn.ergy.
SaveUp with every swipe!
The Medical Practice
of
David B.
Your morning Debited from Differenceautomatically The savings
Williams, M.D.
coffee:$1.75 checking: $2.00 transferred to savings: $0.25 add up . . . fast!
is proud to be
David B. Sheila Lambdin,
entering
WIlliams, M.D. APRN-BC
Marvin Baker,
Corbin Main Banking Center Manager
24 years of service to
Southeastern Kentucky
Family Practice
forchtbank.com | Member FDIC
403 East Sycamore Street, Williamsburg, KY
Monday - Friday - 8:30 am - 5:00 pm * Personal checking account, personal savings account (Simple Savings or Forcht Friend Savings or Performance Money Market), and
Forcht Bank Debit Mastercard required to enroll in SaveUp program. New savings account tied to SaveUp requires a minimum opening
deposit. All Debit Mastercards connected to the checking account(s) will round up to one savings account. You must be an account
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS owner on each checking and savings account to enroll. Both signature and PIN transactions made with Forcht Bank Debit Mastercard
qualify for SaveUp savings program. SaveUp transfer amounts will be shown on statements. If you do not have suf(cid:196)cient funds in your
CALL 549-8244 FOR APPOINTMENTS checking account or if a transaction has overdrawn your checking account, all SaveUp savings transfers will be cancelled for that day.
Savings account closed within 180 days will be charged a $25 closing fee. Forcht Bank reserves the right to modify or discontinue this
program at any time.
A-10 — NEWS JOURNAL —JANUARY 4, 2012
Road crews should be
Happy
better prepared for snow
Moo
Iw as driving up It wasn’t a lot of
to London about snow, but the road
Mark
12:30 p.m. departments got
Monday with my caught completely
wife to meet some White by surprised. It Year!
friends for lunch reached a point
when it started to
The way I see it where you couldn’t
snow.
even see the lines
Nothing was stick-
on I-75.
ing at that point,
We had almost
but I commented to my wife that if
made it home, and were about two
officials were smart, they would go out
miles from Exit 29 when my wife lost
and pre-treat at least the main roads. Holiday bills piling up?
control on a flat, straight stretch of
I figured the main roads were going to
interstate, which hadn’t been salted.
get pretty slick particularly after dark See us for a bill
We spun around two and one-half
when the temperature dropped.
times, and ended up facing the wrong
Besides, it’s not like they had spent direction in the fast bound lane. consolidation loan that
a lot of money on snow removal so far
Fortunately, the semi and other traf-
this winter as compared to the last two
fic behind us didn’t hit us. I guess it can lower your monthly
years.
just wasn’t our time to go.
As it turns out, I was right that
Let’s hope road treatment and snow payment.
roads were going to get bad, but I’m
removal the rest of this winter goes
not sure there was much pre-treat-
better than Monday.
ment of the roads in or around Corbin
Now for a few other topics before I
judging from Facebook posts that I
conclude this column. Call or stop by today,
saw Monday night and scanner traffic
(cid:129) I feel about holidays like many
that I heard.
grandparents feel about visits from or apply online at
My wife had a couple of friends over
their grandchildren. I’m happy to see
to our home in Corbin to play Boggle
them come, and I’m happy to see them www.ffcredit.com.
after lunch Monday. Because of the
go. On a more serious note, I actually
bad weather, they left about 5 p.m.
enjoy Christmas and even New Year’s
to go home. The one, who lived in
Day, it’s just all the stuff leading up to
Somerset, didn’t get home until after 9 “the Cash
the holidays that get you.
p.m. She got stuck on Ky. 80 for quite
Apparently I’m getting kind of old Cow”
some time. Since she is one of those
though. I went to bed on New Year’s
people, who always prays for snow, I
Eve about 10:30 p.m.
can’t say that I felt too sorry for her.
(cid:129) Just a reminder for you high
My wife’s other friend, who lives in
school football enthusiasts. The
Williamsburg, didn’t get home until
2012 National Guard Border Bowl
about 11 p.m. Monday. She couldn’t
will take place Saturday afternoon in
get down Gordon Hill because it was
Williamsburg. The game features high
so slick, so she tried going out the
school all-stars from Kentucky and
other end of Ky. 312. She ended up
Tennessee. Organizers do a great job
getting stuck at the Dollar General
store for several hours because wrecks lining up talented players and good
prevented her from getting to Exit 29 coaches for this annual event.
or back to our house. I know some The best thing about the Border
Keavy residents waited at Sonny’s Bowl, is that it usually results in sev-
Barbeque for at least a few hours until eral kids getting scholarships to play
roads cleared so they could get home. football in college.
CORBIN – 1610 Cumberland Falls Hwy., Suite C, [phone]
Monday’s bad weather just goes to The football playing part isn’t as
show that it doesn’t take a lot of snow significant as the fact that this will WILLIAMSBURG – 10 West Hwy. 92, [phone]
to make roads dangerous. enable several of these kids to get a BARBOURVILLE – 401 Knox St., [phone]
I’ll cite an example from a few years free college education. LONDON – 909 South Laurel Road, [phone]
back when my wife and I were return- My thanks to the organizers of this
ing from her parent’s home in West bowl game, who put in many hours of Equal Housing Lender | All loans are subject to normal credit policies.
Virginia when a surprise snow hit. free work to make this event happen.
Welcome...
To Your New Home
We can save you THOUSANDS
with our fi nance sources!
Before you buy anywhere else stop by
and let us put you in your new home.
FINANCING AVAILABLE • CUSTOM BUILT • TURN-KEY
•Guaranteed lowest prices
•We sell the best built homes
•New home payments less than rent
EDGEWOOD HOMES
•We give top dollar on trade-ins
SUPERCENTER
•Certifi ed deliver and set-up
www.edgewoodhomes.com
•Friendly sales team Williamsburg
•The very best selection to choose from 549-5223
800-317-5337