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N VOL. 107,107, NO. 51 • WILLIAMSBURGILLIAMS , KY. DECEMBER 23, 2015 For subscription info: 606.528.9767 75¢ POLICE HELPING OTHERS Former judge gets diverted sentence for drug arrest Price could have record expunged in 2 years ■ By Mark White the [email protected] News Journal Rather than net stand trial ONLINE ONLINE: Read the ..neentire Tuesday morning text of the Price’s law license sus- for allegedly traf- pension order. ficking in drugs, a former Whitley that Price told her he needed more District Judge money to “bribe prosecutors and instead entered judges” in furtherance of her case, a plea deal that according to a Kentucky Supreme could result in Court opinion and order obtained his record being Price by the News Journal Tuesday after- expunged in two noon. Photos by MARK WHITE years. Price, who had been charged Shopping fun: Above, Williamsburg Police Chief Wayne Bird helps Dakota Herron, 2, pick out a helicopter The News Journal has also with first-degree trafficking in a toy while his sister, Abigail Martin, 9, watches. Both participated in the Shop with a Cop program Thursday. unveiled new details about what controlled substance in connection Below, Aiden Helton, 3, didn’t need much help picking out his toys from Detective Bobby Freeman. initially prompted the criminal with the March 9 incident, instead investigation into Jason Price this pled guilty Tuesday to an amended past March. charge of first-degree possession of It apparently began after a a controlled substance. In exchange Work requirement doesn’t woman, who had hired Price in a for the plea, Special Prosecutor child custody case, complained to dampen Shop-With-A-Cop her probation and parole officer See PRICE, page A-11 ■ By Mark White [email protected] Teen dies in crash; speed, One of the big questions going into the Williamsburg Police Department’s 11th Annual Shop with a Cop event Thursday was how the city’s new Community Reinvestment Program alcohol are likely factors would affect participation in the program. In other words, would parents or guard- ■ By Mark White a 1997 Dodge Neon south on ians be willing to do community service in [email protected] US25W when he veered off the exchange for each of their children going on a right shoulder of the road, which $100 Christmas shopping spree at Wal-Mart? Williamsburg police say exces- caused him to lose control of the sive speed and alcohol involve- vehicle. ment are suspected in a Vanover overcorrected, ❛❛ We are also learning about fatal crash early Saturday which caused the vehicle morning that claimed the to skid sideways across our community and that life of a teenager and has the southbound lane people volunteer and are will- left the driver of the vehi- of travel and into the cle critically injured. oncoming lane of trav- ing to do a lot more than we Williamsburg Police el before striking a tree, Chief Wayne Bird said Bird said. ever anticipated…❜❜ the crash happened on The vehicle skidded US25W near the south for about 318 feet before — RODDY HARRISON side Tobacco Shack about Gilreath stopping. WILLIAMSBURG MAYOR 3:30 a.m. Vanover was ejected ty service requirement,” Williamsburg Mayor Roddy Samuel B. Vanover, Harrison said Thursday. “It did not hinder. In fact, we are 21, of Whetstone, was driving See CRASH, page A-10 The answer was a resounding yes. getting a lot of positive feedback tonight by the parents or In 2014, 150 children participated in the whoever may be bringing them to shop. event. This year 148 children took part and “The positive thing that is going to come out of this the number would have been higher except for is we are taking our children shopping as we normally some no shows Thursday. do. We are also learning about our community and that “The worry was that we wouldn’t have as many participate because of the communi- See SHOP, page A-2 Bus driver cleared by grand Alleged shoplifters jury in death of 10-year-old Driver in separate crash also exonerated lead police on chase ■ By Mark White crash. [email protected] “We didn’t expect a true bill in either one of them,” said A Whitley County Grand Jury Commonwealth’s Attorney Allen through Corbin has issued no true bill against a bus Trimble. “The Kentucky State ■ By Dean Manning driver, who was behind the wheel Police accident reconstruction- dmannning@ when a 10-year-old boy got killed ists went through all of them and corbinnewsjournal.com while getting off the bus in March. there is no indication of any kind Corbin Police responding to a shoplifting com- While issuing its monthly report of criminal conduct. They were just plaint at JC Penney Sunday night, found them- Monday, the grand jury issued no accidents.” selves in a high-speed pursuit through downtown true bill or no indictment against Jonathan A. Chatham, a fourth- that came to an end after reaching the end of a bus driver Amanda Woliver con- grade student at Whitley North dead-end road. cerning a death investigation of the Elementary School, had just got- Thirty-two-year-old Kelda L. Messer and boy. ten off the bus about 4:20 p.m. on 27-year-old Jessica E. Mitchell are each facing The grand jury also issued no March 23 near his home on Ky. 779 multiple charges after police reportedly recovered Giving spirit: Curt Hampton, a Georgia missions direc- true bill or no indictment against with three other children. $3,191 worth of merchandise reportedly stolen tor, addressed a crowd at Mountain Ash Baptist Church Rachel Adams and Daniel Jones Kentucky State Police stated from JC Penney and Belk. Saturday afternoon where 23 people from Hampton’s in connection with a separate that as the bus began moving away churches gave away 462 backpacks to local youngsters. July death investigation that also See CHASE, page A-10 For more photos see page A-5. involved a fatal motor vehicle See JURY, page A-11 A-2 — NEWS JOURNAL — DECEMBER 23, 2015 KSP investigating hit-and-run wreck FREEDOM FROM SMOKING involving Whitley EMS ambulance STOP SMOKING CLASSES ■ By Dean Manning or tag number off the truck,” Cochran said of [email protected] the ambulance crew. OFFERED AT: The ambulance was carrying a patient, but Kentucky State Police are searching for officials said neither the patient, nor either of the driver of a pickup truck involved in a hit- the two crew members were injured. and-run incident with a Whitley County EMS The ambulance suffered minor damage to Whitley County ambulance Monday afternoon. the driver’s side mirror and window, but was Officials with Whitley EMS said the wreck driven from the scene. occurred about 12:20 p.m. on U.S. 25W south Whitley County Sheriff’s deputies were ini- Health Department of the intersection with Fifth Street Road. tially called to the scene to investigate. Kentucky State Police Trooper Lloyd However, because the ambulance is a coun- Cochran, public affairs officer at Post 11 in ty vehicle, the investigation has been turned London, said the ambulance was traveling over to Kentucky State Police. GET THE north on U.S. 25W when the black pickup Anyone with information about the truck truck crossed the centerline and sideswiped or the driver is asked to contact Kentucky the ambulance before continuing south. State Police at 878-6622. Callers may remain SMOKING “They weren’t able to get a make or model anonymous. MONKEY Rupp Arena bound... OFF YOUR
Two tickets to paradise: BACK! Amber Fincher of Corbin won the Corbin Backpack Club’s raffle of two tickets ARE YOU READY TO QUIT SMOKING? to Saturday’s annual UK v. UL basketball clash at Learn how to overcome your tobacco addiction so Rupp Arena in Lexington. Presenting her with the tick- you can enjoy the benefi ts of better health, extra mon- ets is Backpack Club Board Chair Doris Moore. Proceeds ey in your pocket, and healthier relationships. from the raffle went to sup- port the organization’s con- tinuing efforts to provide food Freedom From Smoking is seven sessions intend- to almost 800 needy students at Corbin Independent, Knox ed to be held over a seven week period. This program and Whitley County schools. The tickets were donated is facilitated by the Whitley County Health Department by Tom Blair of State Farm Insurance in Corbin. and helps you gain the skills and support to become a
Photo by DEAN MANNING non-smoker for life! Get the monkey off your back! Gray, Woodbine residents among 13 arrested Sessions begin on Tuesday, January 12, 2016 in Thursday Knox County drug sting from 2 pm - 4 pm and held weekly for Three Gray residents and a • Jason Wyatt, 34, of Gray, Knox County Sheriff Mike 7 weeks ending February 23, 2016 Woodbine man were among charged with second-degree Smith said deputies secured 13 individuals arrested in a trafficking in a controlled sub- arrest warrants for the individ- sweep of suspected drug deal- stance uals after undercover officers Classes will be held at ers in Knox County Thursday • Johnny Eads, 43, of Gray, made controlled purchases of morning. charged with first-degree traf- Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, 368 Penny Lane, Williamsburg KY “Operation Silent Sweep” ficking in a controlled sub- methamphetamine and/or conducted by Knox County stance Suboxone from each of them. For more information or to register for classes contact Sheriff’s deputies with the • Matthew McCrystal, 34, of Smith said the investigation cooperation of Kentucky State Gray, charged with second-de- is continuing and more arrests Kathy Lay 606-549-3380 ext. 107 Police and Barbourville Police gree trafficking in a controlled are suspected. targeted 21 suspected drug substance Anyone with information Monday thru Friday from 3 pm - 4 pm dealers identified through the • James Roberts, 53, of about suspect drug activity department’s drug trip hotline. Woodbine, charged with in Knox County may report The Gray and Woodbine first-degree trafficking in a it anonymously through the residents arrested included: controlled substance hotline, 595-8105.
Delivering wishes merry and bright SHOP: Participants did over 800 to all of our friends and neighbors hours of community service at Christmastime! From the front page with her three children ages 12, nine and With sincere thanks for your seven, participating. people volunteer and are willing to do a lot “I think it is awesome. They have never loyal support, we wish you and more than we ever anticipated.” participated in anything like this before,” yours a very merry Christmas! The Community Reinvestment Program Mitchell said. “There aren’t a lot of jobs out required that each of the 60 families partici- there. I think it helps a lot of families and a pating in Shop with a Cop this year to do eight lot of kids.” She said it is “extremely” diffi- hours of community service in exchange for cult making ends meet at Christmas time and their child or children participating. trying to give the children what they want and While 480 hours of community service what they need. Mitchell went to workshops were required, participants actually logged and family reading nights as her community 876.5 hours of community service this year. service for the program. Only nine of the families didn’t do any “I think it was great. It didn’t bother me at community service hours. Two were excused all,” Mitchell added. “I think if they are going for legitimate reasons and the rest were signed to do this for your kid then you need to give up about one week before the event and didn’t something back is the way I feel about it.” have time to log the community service hours. Fun event for organizers Harrison said that some participants inten- Harrison said Shop with a Cop is one of the tionally logged additional hours in case there “funnest” times of the year for him. were people who could not do their own com- “It tugs at your heart strings. Most of them munity service. want to buy for each other if they have a “People only needed 480 hours to take these brother or sister,” Harrison noted. kids shopping and we got over 800 hours of He said organizers have to explain to many community service,” Harrison noted. of the children that the $100 is for them to “To me that shows that people in this com- spend on themselves and that their siblings munity love their children and are willing to have their own money to spend on Christmas. do something so we can take them shopping. “The smiles on their faces are worth a bil- To me that is the most positive thing in the lion dollars,” Harrison added. world.” Williamsburg Police Chief Wayne Bird said Parents react that as usual it is an awesome event for the All the parents interviewed by the News police officers to participate in. Journal about the Community Reinvestment “We love it. We love seeing kids, who are Program Thursday had nothing but praise for unfortunate, get a Christmas. It is great. We the effort. love it,” Bird said. “It is one of the best things “Bringing the best together Heather Herron, who brought her two-year- we do as a police officer by far.” old, nine-year-old and 12-year-old out to par- Bird, who has two young sons of his own, to help Southern Kentucky thrive” ticipate in Shop with a Cop Thursday, said the said he could relate to families trying to make event means a lot to her. ends meet while raising children, especially “They enjoy shopping and sometimes you at Christmas time. “When you have two kids Corbin Williamsburg can’t afford to do that. This helps them out to it is tough,” Bird said. “I can imagine if you be able to get what they want when I can’t get have four or five kids. A lot of these families it every week,” Herron noted. we are seeing have four, five or six kids. I can Herron said she attended some parent work- imagine how tough it is.” shops as part of her community service for Purpose of program the program. “I thought it was good. I learned Harrison added that the purpose of the a lot of things that I could bring home to Community Reinvestment Program wasn’t do activities with the kids,” Herron said. “It to punish a child, and that roughly the same helped to see other parents involved in it too number of children went shopping this year and other programs that I never knew about.” as did last year. Haley Fannin brought her daughter and two Harrison said he got the idea for requiring grandchildren with her Thursday to partici- community service after speaking with busi- Southern Kentucky pate. “Oh it’s wonderful. My children never ness owners, who told him they couldn’t find did get an opportunity like this. To do some- people, who were willing to work. thing for the community service too is a really “What we wanted inevitably to show is great thing,” Fannin said. what we have in this town are people, who Chamber of Commerce Fannin said she attended various school are willing to do something so their child can dinners and after school projects as part of her shop,” Harrison noted. “Number one it teach- 101 North Depot Street, Corbin, KY 40701 community service. The community service es the child that nothing is free and somebody aspect of the program is something Fannin has to do something for it so the child learns.” noted she both enjoyed and thinks the city Harrison said the city has set up a database 606.528.6390 should continue requiring for next year. showing who did community service and the “It is very worthwhile. It teaches the kids type of community service they did. www.southernkychamber.com to help out the community if they want some- He hopes to put that database to future use thing in return,” Fannin added. if an employer contacts him needing someone Jessica Mitchell also attended the event with a particular skill to work. A-3 — NEWS JOURNAL —DECEMBER 23, 2015
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News Journal — (606) 549-0643 News Journal Letters to Editor policy 105 South Second St., P.O. Box 418, Williamsburg, KY 40769 News Journal The NEWS JOURNAL (USPS 683320) is published each Wednesday 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: $37.75 in local the opinion of the News Journal. No more than (2) letters per month will be published by the delivery area; $51.25 elsewhere in Kentucky; $59.50 elsewhere. Online same writer. Deadline for letters is Monday at 5 p.m. Letters may be sent to the News Journal, edition only $35.00. P.O. Box 418, Williamsburg, KY 40769 or P.O. Box 1524, Corbin KY 40702; delivered to our pinion offices at 105 South Second Street, Williamsburg or 215 North Main Street, Corbin. O CIRCULATION (606)528-9767 Search for golden horse inspired me hen I was young, there was But the experience born. at all right away. Could it even go on this strange VHS movie I left a lasting impres- I’ve enjoyed peo- for days without a winner? Wremember seeing all the time sion. ple coming up to To give you a little Paul Harvey “the at video stores called Treasure: In I always wanted to me asking for hints, rest of the story” action here, no one Search of the Golden Horse. organize something speculating on the ever found that little golden horse back After much begging, I convinced my like that. RENT phrase, and wanting in the 1980s. The proceeds of the con- parents to rent it for me one weekend This year, on a T to know what the test ended up being donated to charity. so we could play it on our desk-sized smaller scale, I did. KNUCKLES next word would be. I suppose that’s what we might do VCR. As I write this, I Many were frustrat- if no one wins our game, although I CHHECKECK THHISIS OUUTT Basically, it was an elaborate con- am equal parts ner- ed, initially, because think it’s unlikely. test. The movie — a bizarre, dreamy, vous and excited. they could not find I truly hope we have a nice, clean, narrative broken up into many short Today will end a the hidden words in satisfying end to the whole thing. chapters as best I can recall — had contest we started 12 weeks ago as a the newspaper. They were all in there, Someone wins an unexpected $500 clues nestled in it that, if deciphered way to just have a little fun, engage I promise. and gets a nice early Christmas pres- correctly, would point you to the loca- with our readers, and give people a I am the only person on this earth ent. tion of a small golden horse statue reason to really dig through the news- who knew what the phrase would • When I was young, I remember so buried somewhere in the U.S. If you paper. We called it the Secret Phrase be. My co-workers didn’t even know. fondly a few Christmas traditions and found it before a certain date, you game. That’s the way I wanted it. No shenan- rituals I’d go through ever year. would get to keep the horse, valuable Maybe we couldn’t bury a golden igans. I’d always watch a super-old, in its own right, and would receive an horse and give away half a million At 11:00 a.m. today, anyone can call black-and-white, British version of A additional $500,000. bucks. It wouldn’t be fair to many of and try to guess the phrase. If they get Christmas Carol. It was my favorite. I was enthralled by this whole con- our readers anyway. Many don’t have it exactly right, they win $500. My grandmother would come over cept. time or the physical ability to trav- I’ve been wondering for weeks what and spend the night with us. My sis- I watched the movie over and over, el around tearing up half of creation will happen. ter and I thought this was the coolest trying to glean something, ANYTHING looking for some hidden trinket. But Will the phone ring just seconds thing ever. The next day we all awoke, that would lead me to the treasure. we could entice people to search for after 11:00 a.m.? (DON’T bother call- at about 5:30 a.m. to a huge breakfast! This was all in the early 1980s and the some words in this newspaper and ing early. It won’t work.) Will it be a There was much present shaking to puzzle was so confoundedly difficult decipher a word scramble to win $500. wild onslaught of people trying to get try to figure out what gifts I was get- my young mind had no chance of solv- Easy enough. through to win the money. Or will it be ting. I miss those years. ing it. So, our Secret Phrase Game was the opposite. Perhaps no one will call Merry Christmas to everyone! I have lots of WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS great memories of Christmas
eace on Earth! In Pthe violent world we live in today, this Christmas wish is one that all of us should make. DON ESTEP th This is the 28 PUUBLISHERBLISHER’S year I have writ- CCOMMENTARYOMMENTARY ten a Christmas column and I have covered about every phase of my life during this season. I have lots of favorites, like the memories of going to bed early so Santa could come. I remember how hard it was to go to sleep. Every sound meant it could be him. Finally I would drift off to sleep and awake early and rush to the living room to see what Santa had brought. It was so exciting! Adding to the joy of the seasons were the big fam- ily get togethers. We had a big family and when all arrived we would fill the house. It was always fun to see what my dad had bought for my mother. It was always as big of a surprise to him as it was to us because one of my sisters did the shopping for him. Loren Hooker was an institution when Then the next phase of my life produced our own little girls to witness what Santa had brought. They would slowly approach the Christmas tree with sleepy eyes looking down to see what wonders they had received. I had my Super 8 camera filming every it came to local radio news coverage second of it. Some of the most fun of all was dressing our little ou know you’re a local insti- we were more concerned about beagle in a Santa suits. It had a beard and the rest. tution when the boss tells the radio reporters scooping us And then our neighbor, Elmer Wilson would knock Yyou he’s letting you go but than the local daily newspaper. on the door dressed in his Santa suit. He was so you can successfully refuse to be This was a different era in a funny. His Santa false face was really false and when fired. different day though. he turned to leave you could see the pillows protrud- This is what comes to mind MARK WHITE As I said earlier, Loren and when I think of former long- ing from his costume. Cathy were among the last of time WCCT radio newsman We loved that man. their generation. Loren Hooker, who passed away THHEE WAAYY I SEEEE IT It was during that period of time that I helped with I was saddened to hear the Thursday in Ohio. news of Loren’s passing when I the Lion’s Club Christmas Basket Appeal on radio About 12 years ago, the own- Loren’s primary job at the radio got a Facebook message Friday and television. For the first few years it was on radio ership over at WCTT and WKDP station was to gather and report morning from Loren’s grand- only and then Jim Ferguson, owner of Southern informed their three radio news news. He went out to government daughter, Brittney Venable. Cable Vision, made it possible for us to telecast the people, including Loren, that they meetings, such as Corbin City Loren was a friend and veteran event. We had so much fun and raised thousands of were doing away with the news Commission, the Whitley County newsman, who I was able to learn dollars for the needy. I have videotapes of some of the operation and their services were Fiscal Court, and so forth. The a lot from as a young reporter telecasts and they bring back special memories to no longer required. It’s a decision consummate professional, he fresh out of college many moons me. that I’m sure didn’t come easy always arrived early and would ago. He will be missed. And then came the first period of time when we considering that one of the news set up his microphones on the Now for a few random thoughts had our grandchildren at home for Christmas. Our people that they let go, Shawn table in front of where the gov- before I conclude this column. little grandson Blake was four-years-old and I can Powers, was the owner’s niece. ernment officials sat to pick up • For the few of you who still remember him opening his presents and say- As I recall Shawn later telling sound bites, which he would didn’t make it out to see this ing “awesome” for each gift he received. Our grand- me though, Loren wasn’t having broadcast in his stories. year’s Williamsburg Christmas daughter, Adelyn, was only 20-months-old. She was any of this, but he did relent to He would go out to wrecks, parade, it was one of the longest my bowl full of sugar. Those two little ones made it working part time though. When attend court and so forth. Christmas parades and one of special. you work on the air for nearly Sometimes, he would broadcast the most impressive I can recall I don’t want to forget the Christmas specials at 50 years with a broadcast titled, things during the middle of the in recent Williamsburg history. Central Baptist Church. “The Hooker Report,” I guess this day as a special report if the cir- I say the few of you, who didn’t is a privilege that you get. A few We had fantastic programs. The dinner special fea- cumstances warranted. see it, because this was probably years later, Loren decided to hang tured lighthearted Christmas music and put every- For those younger folks reading the largest crowd I have ever seen it up on his own terms the best I body in the holiday mood. this, the concept of near instant for a Williamsburg Christmas can recall. I participated in both the dinner program and the news didn’t start with your gener- parade. Of course, December For those that don’t know, cantata as the narrator. ation, Twitter and Facebook. weather in the 60s always helps Loren was one of the last of a Fortunately I have DVD’s of those wonderful For the first several years of my with turnout. generation of local radio station events. journalistic career, local radio • I thought the first ever news reporters. I’m not talking And as we move to this year all four of my grand- station reporters like Loren and Williamsburg Christmas bazaar about the current crop of DJ’s, children will be here to help us celebrate. I don’t the late Cathy Hall, were some of was a smashing success also. who largely just sit there and know how it could be better than that! our biggest competitors. In many read press releases verbatim. God Bless and Merry Christmas to you! cases here at the News Journal, See WHITE, page A-10 News Journal NEWS JOURNAL —DECEMBER 23, 2015— A-5 Local News Williamsburg Serving our community since 1908 Corbin April 5 trial date set in Tristan Hall cases ■ By Mark White cealment of her body. reporting that a fur coat had been The case allegedly involved a fur 5 in case something comes up pre- [email protected] Spalding noted Tuesday that the stolen. coat that a relative had given Hall venting the solicitation case from court would have to look at the Last month, Spalding agreed that went missing and was reported being tried that day. Special Judge Samuel Spalding issue of venue in regards to where to dismiss a fraudulent insurance stolen only to be found two or three On March 2 of this year, Hall was set an April 5 trial date Tuesday the case will be tried though. acts case against Hall due in part weeks later, defense attorneys have indicted for retaliating against a morning for a Corbin man, who is Attorneys for Hall had previous- to “serious reservations about the said previously. participant in the legal process. accused of advertising on the pop- ly lobbied to have the location of trustworthiness” of one of the main Hall was never paid anything by In June 2014, Hall allegedly ular website Topix to hire a hit man Hall’s trial for fraudulent insurance witnesses in the case, Hall’s ex-girl- the insurance company. made threats to Allen Trimble, who to kill someone in 2013. acts changed due to publicity sur- friend Angela Reeves. Spalding noted Tuesday that at the time was prosecuting Hall Tristan Hall, 32, is charged with rounding Hall’s criminal cases. On April 9, 2013 through Sept. finding an impartial jury now in for criminal solicitation to commit criminal solicitation to commit Spalding agreed earlier this 26, 2013, Hall allegedly act- Whitley County for the solicitation murder. Trimble has since recused murder in connection with a Jan. year to move that case to Madison ing alone or in concert with oth- case would be even harder because as prosecutor in that case. 10, 2013 incident where he alleged- County after defense attorneys suc- ers falsified an insurance claim in of publicity about the insurance acts Spalding indicated that the goal ly advertised on the popular web- cessfully argued that if there had order to obtain insurance benefits case. is to get the older solicitation case site Topix that he would pay some- been a crime, this is where it actu- worth $500 or more from U.S.A.A. Spalding also set Hall’s case for tried or resolved in April because one $5,000 cash for the murder of ally occurred, i.e., the phone call Casualty Insurance Company, retaliating against a participant in after three years it needed some Melissa Jones Davis and the con- by Hall to an insurance company according to his indictment. the legal process for trial on April kind of closure. Christmas donation… Ex-WCTT newsman Loren Hooker passes away at age 90
■ By Dean Manning good, solid, informational [email protected] delivery,” Bahrman said. As to getting the story, Loren Hooker, one of Bahrman noted that Hooker the area’s most recogniz- would wade through any- able radio voices has been thing, including scores of silenced, passing away last high school students, to get Thursday in Ohio. it. Bahrman explained that Thor Bahrman, who Hooker had been called to serves as the morning radio Corbin High School on a host on WCTT is now one story while school was still Photo by MARK WHITE of the old hands at Encore in session. As Hooker made Helping others: Above, representatives of the Kentucky Consular Center, which is also known as FCi Federal, recently donat- Communications’ radio sta- his way to his destination, ed 30 Christmas stockings to the Williamsburg Family Resource Center. Picture from left, FCi Federal supervisors Eric Turner tions in Corbin, but when the bell rang and the hall and Kenley Bidwell and Williamsburg Family Resource Center Director Tammy Stephens. he first came on board in was soon a sea of students. the 1990’s, Hooker was the Microphone held high, veteran with more than 40 Hooker continued to wade years in radio. through the crowd. “Loren was a profes- Hooker worked full-time sional,” Bahrman said of at the station as manag- Ky. Consular Center, also known as the Ohio native who came er and later news director to Corbin in 1965 to work until 2004. He continued in at WCTT as the station a part-time capacity until manager, noting he was in 2012 when he retired a the mold of such notables moved back to Ohio. as Paul Harvey who could In addition to his work in FCi Federal, donates to needy kids allow an audience to “feel” radio, Hooker was involved a story through the sound of ■ By Mark White locally in the American other goodies to keep the children busy. the stockings, who were at risk of not his voice. Legion, Rotary Club and [email protected] Besides fun things, Bidwell said the receiving anything for the holidays and “He knew how to give a First Christian Church. stockings also include some other items, weren’t being served by another local 30 local children will be having a such as gloves and scarves that FCi charitable effort, such as Shop with a merrier Christmas this year thanks to Federal provided the funds to purchase. Cop, Mt. Outreach or Cumberland River the efforts of the 260-plus employees He said that employees at the facility Behavioral Health. at FCi Federal, which is better known also donated enough toys to ensure that “These families don’t know these locally as the Kentucky Consular Center each child had at least one. are coming. It is kind of like the (KCC). Bidwell said that he wasn’t surprised Thanksgiving boxes that FCi donat- Corbin man sues tree Thursday afternoon, FCi workers at all how much his co-workers decided ed. We were kind of able to come in donated 30 Christmas stockings to the to chip in to help with the effort. and surprise them. We were met with Williamsburg Family Resource Center “It is really amazing and I think a lot a lot of thankful hearts and tears at that were filled with various items to of fun to be able to work with such a Thanksgiving and I am sure it will help make Christmas a bit merrier. large number of people, who are also be a very similar situation this time,” stand manufacturer FCi Federal currently operates the so gracious and so willing to give. They Stephens added. Kentucky Consular Center, which is a were all completely on board and every- Stephens said the biggest student need visa immigration processing facility for one participated,” Bidwell noted. the resource center at her school sees the United States Department of State. Eric Turner, another local supervisor varies from year to year but socks and Kenley Bidwell, a supervisor at FCi, at FCi, said after the goal of 30 stock- underwear are a big item needed for this in federal court noted that the effort was similar to a ings was reached organizers had more year. Thanksgiving food drive that the com- people approaching them wanting to “The socks and underwear that they Jordan claims he was injured pany did. donate additional items for the stock- brought in will be quickly used,” she Bidwell said organizers sent out ings, such as additional toys, socks and added. “We have a lot of students who a message about six weeks ago to underwear, which are some things the don’t have what they need to dress prop- when tree stand cable snapped the more than 200 employees in the family resource center informed them erly for school. We need a lot of shoes building seeking items to help fill the that students needed this year. often as well.” ■ By Dean Manning claims the cable snapped in Christmas stockings. “They exceeded our high expecta- Another item the Williamsburg [email protected] two causing the fall. “Our employer, FCi Federal, wanted tions,” Turner added. Family Resource Center is often in need According to the law- to absolutely back this as well. It was Williamsburg Family Resource Center of are student backpacks, especially A Corbin man who claims suit, the stand has a maxi- actually their idea and they provided us Coordinator Tammy Stephens said her high school size backpacks. he was injured when a sup- mum weight of 300 pounds. with funds to go out and buy 30 stock- organization is proud to be the delivery Stephens said anyone who wants port cable on his portable Jordan stated that he and his ings for 30 needy children,” Bidwell mechanism for FCi’s efforts and gener- to donate to the Williamsburg Family tree stand collapsed has gear fell under that limit. noted. osity. Resource Center can call 549-6044 filed a federal product lia- Jordan contends that Bidwell said the stockings include She said it didn’t take long to come extension 358 or mail the center at 1000 bility lawsuit against man- BGHA, which is based several things, such as pens, pencils and up with 30 needy children to receive Main Street, Williamsburg. ufacturer BGHA, Inc. and on Windom Minn. and/or retailer Bass Pro. Bass Pro, which is based in In the lawsuit filed last Clayton, Mo., knew of the Wednesday in U.S. District issues with the stand but Court in London, Kenneth failed to take appropriate Jordan claims he suffered action. injuries to his head, hips and However, a recall of the Rockholds man charged with robbing Belk arm when the cable sup- stand was later issued citing porting the bottom platform defective cables. ■ By Dean Manning robbery in connection with loss prevention employees,” became involved in the strug- on which he was standing, According to the [email protected] the incident outside the store Proffitt stated in the arrest gle and Blevins was finally snapped in half. Consumer Product Safety at the Trademart Center. citation, noting Blevins con- taken into custody. Jordan stated that he was Commission, the notice of Goodwill toward men did According to Corbin Police tinued to fight as lost preven- Blevins was charged with hunting in Daniel Boone recall went out on Oct. 20. not extended to Belk loss Officer Ken Proffitt, the inci- tion attempted to secure him second-degree robbery, National Forest on Dec. 17, Approximately 12,200 of prevention or Corbin Police dent began about 8:50 when in handcuffs. resisting arrest and pub- 2014, using Big Game Tree the stands are affected by for a Rockholds man as he loss prevention attempted to Proffitt stated that it was lic intoxication – controlled Stand’s Fusion Climber the recall. allegedly began fighting with stop Blevins as he left the about this same time when substance and lodged in the CL500-A stand that he had Jordan is seeking unspeci- them when they confronted store merchandise valued at he arrived on the scene and Knox County Detention purchased at Bass Pro in fied compensatory and puni- him about unpaid merchan- $259.98. witnesses the struggle, order- Center. Kodiak, Tenn. to climb 10 tive damages from BGHA, dise he allegedly took from “Offender would not stop ing Blevins to, “get on the Blevins is currently being to 15 feet up a tree. Inc. and Bass Pro. the store Saturday night. and started throwing items ground.” held without bond in the As Jordan was standing in Neither company has yet Thirty-year-old Jason out of his pockets and try- When Blevins failed to Knox County Detention the bottom platform of the filed a response. Blevins was charged with ing to push his way through comply, Proffitt stated he Center. stand to arrange his gear, he No trial date has been set. A-6 — NEWS JOURNAL — DECEMBER 23, 2015 Backpack giveaway… Christmas Eve CANDLELIGHT SERVICE DECEMBER 24th 5 p.m. Nursery provided for ages 3 and under.
SUNDAY SERVICES Traditional 8:30 am Sunday School 9:45 am Contemporary - 11 am www.graceonthehill.org Like us on Facebook!
1632 Cumberland Falls Hwy, Corbin (next to the hospital) NOW OFFERING NEW MEMBERSHIPS NOW OFFERING NEW MEMBERSHIPS State of the art facility! All new Equipment! Photos by MARK WHITE Helping others: 23 volunteers from Georgia churches traveled to Mountain Ash Baptist Church in Williamsburg with 462 back- packs loaded with Christmas goodies that they brought to give away to local children during an event Saturday at Mountain Brand new tanning beds! Ash Baptist Church. Above, volunteers handed out the backpacks to children and their families. Below left, a volunteer hands a stuffed animal to a local child. Below right, “Rodney” and Mountain Ash Pastor Billy Carpenter gave a brief message to those, who attended Saturday’s event. AEROBIC CLASSES! 7 PM - MON., WED. & THUR.
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COCHLEAR IMPLANTATION Carolyn IMPROVED SPEECH Reeves, PERCEPTION, Hearing COGNITIVE FUNCTION IN Specialist OLDER ADULTS Cochlear implantation was associated with improved speech percep- tion and cognitive function in adults 65 years or older with profound hearing loss, according to a new report. Hearing impairment is associated with cognitive decline. In cases of Student paramedics, EMT’s will soon be able to severe to profound hearing loss where there is no benefi t from conven- tional amplifi cation (i.e. hearing aids), cochlear implantation that uses direct electrical stimulation of the auditory nerve has proven successful and selected older patients are among those who can benefi t. Researchers examined the relationship between cognitive function and hearing restoration with cochlear implantation in older patients at do ‘ride-a-longs’ with Whitley County EMS 10 tertiary referral centers between 2006 and 2009. The study included 94 patients (ages 65 to 85) with profound postlingual (after speech has developed) hearing loss who were evaluated before cochlear implanta- ■ By Dean Manning under the terms of the annual Corbin Area Technology mining near a county road, [email protected] tion and then six and 12 months after. agreement, the students will Center,” Owens said, adding the fiscal court must approve Results show cochlear implantation was associated with improved ride with the crews but will that other local ambulance it. speech perception in quiet and in noise, quality of life and depression Perspective paramedics and not be assisting the crews or services work with the school • Reappointed Jimmy scores, with 76 percent of patients giving responses that indicate no de- EMTs at Southeast Kentucky providing any type of patient to help the students meet their Creekmore to serve as a com- pression at 12 months after implantation vs. 59 percent before implanta- Community and Technical care. required time. missioner in the Cumberland tion. As early as six months after cochlear implantation, improved aver- College will have the oppor- “They will simply be The agreement runs through Falls Water District. age scores in all cognitive domains were seen. More than 80 percent tunity to observe Whitley observing,” Owens said. December 2016 . • Reappointed Peggy Bird of the patients (30 of 37) who had the poorest cognitive scores before EMS personnel in action. The students will be cov- In other business, the fiscal to the Whitley County Water implantation improved their cognitive function one year after implanta- At the December meet- ered under the college’s insur- court: District Commission. tion. In contrast, patients with the best cognitive performance before ing of the Whitley County ance for the cost of any acci- • Authorized Judge- • Appointed Lorene implantation showed stable postimplantation results, although there Fiscal Court, the magistrates dents or injuries sustained. executive Pat White, Jr. to Bowling and Barry Arnett to was a decline in some patients, according to the results. approved a memorandum of “This is not going to cost sign a letter to the Department the Whitley County Extension agreement with the college the county anything,” Owens of Natural Resources per- Council District Board Brought to you as a community service by to allow students to perform said. taining to Alden Resources • Approved a resolution some of their, 500 hours “ride Owens added the students LLC’s mining permit. authorizing Santa Claus to time,” with Whitley County will sign patient confidential- Owens said the new coal use Whitley County air space Hearing EMS ambulance crews. ity statements. mining operation will be during his annual Christmas Whitley County Projects “We have done this in the near Springtown Road in deliveries. Aid Center Director Amber Owens said past with the students at the Rockholds. Anytime there is 105 S. Main Street, Corbin, KY - 528-1136 You Should Hear What You’re Missing! FOR HEARING AIDS: FOR THERAPY: • Programmable Hearing Aids • Tinnitus Retraining (ringing ears) • Digital Hearing Aids • Canalith Repositioning (dizziness) • Assistive Listening Devices • Repair of Hearing Aids Medically staffed by East Tennessee • Buyer Protection Ear Nose & Throat physicians for the best options for your hearing needs
1 Trillium Way, Corbin, KY 40701
Photo by MARK WHITE (606)523-8770 Biblical proclamation: Above, Whitley County Judge-Executive Pat White Jr., right, signs a TOLL FREE 1-(866)479-HEAR proclamation Friday morning declaring Jan. 1 - 8 as Bible Reading Week in Whitley County. 95 800 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Suite C-101 300 East Central Avenue 2497 South Roane St. other counties have already signed similar proclamations. White is pictured with Steven Jett, Haley Wright, M.A., CCC-A Oak Ridge, TN 37830 LaFollette, TN 37766 Harriman, TN 37748 Director of Missions with the South Union-Mt. Zion Association of Baptist Churches. Audiology (865)482-1086 (423)562-9744 (865)882-1600 NEWS JOURNAL — DECEMBER 23, 2015 — A-7 Hometown Bank donates to worthy charities… www.tricountycineplex.com
2015 CANNED FOOD DRIVE BRING ANY IN-DATE CANNED FOOD ITEM FOR A CHANCE TO WIN 1 YEAR WORTH OF FREE MOVIES Winner will be drawn CUMBERLAND FALLS HWY, CORBIN, KY on January 1, 2016 SCHEDULE FOR DECEMBER 25-31 FRI. & SAT. ONLY DADDY’S HOME PG13 2:00 4:15 7:00 9:30 11:25 JOY PG13 1:35 4:05 6:40 9:10 11:00 CONCUSSION PG13 2:00 4:30 7:10 10:30 POINT BREAK PG13 1:50 4:10 6:55 9:20 11:35 STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS PG13 1:30 4:30 7:30 9:15 10:30 STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS PG13 4:00 STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS 3D PG13 1:45 6:50 ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: ROADCHIP PG 1:40 4:25 7:05 9:00 11:30 SISTERS R 1:55 4:20 6:45 9:10 11:30 10:00 & 11:00 PM SHOWTIMES ARE GOOD FRIDAY & SATURDAY ONLY SHOWTIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE DAILY SHOWTIME INFORMATION 528-1505 Photos submitted In the holiday spirit: Hometown Bank Corbin recently donat- ed to local charitable efforts. At left, the bank donated to the Corbin Lions Club. Pictured is Sherry Logan presenting the COMING TO CORBIN ARENA check to Mike Pawula of the Lion’s Club. Above, Hometown Bank gives a donation to Corbin Rotary Club for the Empty SATURDAY, Stocking Fund. Pictured is Lee Parks, Don Robinson and Sherry Logan. JAN 23RD BRAD PAISLEY Crushin’ It World Tour Special Guests Eric Paslay & Cam
THE ARENA TICKET OFFICE IS OPEN MON - FRI 10 AM - 5 PM WEEKEND HOURS WILL VARY Tickets may be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or to charge by phone call 1-800-745-3000 FOR EVENT INFORMATION CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE LIKE US ON FACEBOOK 606.258.2020 www.thecorbinarena.com
STEAKS BUFFET Photos by DEAN MANNING An ‘A’ for effort: Above, the Corbin City Commission recognized the Corbin High School cheerleaders at their recent meeting. BAKERY The team won the medium division state championship at the KHSAA competitive cheer competition. Below, Corbin Patrolman David’s Ken Proffitt is honored by Mayor Willard McBurney for receiving the 2015 Governor’s Impaired Driving Enforcement Award. TRY OUR FAMOUS DAILY BUFFET FOR LUNCH OR DINNER!! ENJOY SIRLOIN STEAK ON OUR BUFFET EVERY NIGHT & ALL DAY SAT & SUN CHS cheerleaders, Redhound Theatre Variety of entrees & vegetables daily! HOMEMADE CHILI OR Try them honored for success at state competitions POTATO W/BACON SOUP today! ■ By Dean Manning [email protected] LUNCH SPECIAL The Corbin City Commission recognized the Corbin High Cheeseburger, Sirloin Tips or School Cheerleaders, Redhound Theatre and Corbin Police Ribeye Steak Sandwich Officer Ken Proffitt for being among the best in the state with your choice of WOW Monday night. baked potato or fries, ONLY! $ The commissioners authorized Mayor Willard McBurney to sign a proclamation declaring the week of Dec. 21-25 to be dessert and drink “Corbin High School Theatre Week” in Corbin. Dine in only! The theatre students, collectively known as, “Redhound 7 Theatre,” brought home the award for “Best Play,” for their 125 W. Cumberland Gap Pkwy., Corbin, KY - just off exit 29 performance of “The Elephant Man,” at the Kentucky Theatre 606.528.0063 Association state competition in November. The commissioners authorized McBurney to sign a proc- lamation declaring the week of Dec. 28 through Jan. 1 as “Corbin High School Cheerleading Week” in Corbin. The cheerleaders were named the 2015-16 Kentucky School Athletic Association Competitive Cheerleading state McBurney told the cheerleaders who were in attendance at the champions in the medium division at the competitive cheer meeting. competition on Dec. 12. Proffitt received the 2015 Governor’s Impaired Driving Anytime that we have our young people that excel in our Enforcement Award for leading the department in the number schools or anything the City of Corbin is certainly proud of of DUI arrests with 17. them,” McBurney said. Corbin Police Capt. Coy Wilson told the commissioners the Redhound Theatre and the cheerleaders each received the department has made 74 DUI arrests in 2015. key to the city. “They do a good job,” said Commissioner Freddy “Bruce” “We can’t say enough about you for the job well done,” Hodge. KIDS THE MODERN PHARMACY FREE LOCAL WITH OLD FASHIONED SERVICE D EAT Species ELIVERY! FREE* Stephanie’s *Kids 10 & under with Down Home purchase of adult meal Species every Wednesday MON - THURS CLOSE AT 10:30 PM Pharmacy FRI & SAT CLOSE AT 11:30 PM SUN CLOSE AT 10 PM HOURS: MON - FRI 8:30 - 6:00; CLOSED SAT & SUN 6WHSKDQLH&ROOLQV53K0LNH6L]HPRUH53+ 1895 CUMBERLAND FALLS HWY. CALL 606-261-7877 1996 5TH STREET OFF I-75 EXIT 25 0DVWHU6WUHHW&RUELQ.< *%,,)#/ 4. s 606.523.0600 A-8 — NEWS JOURNAL — DECEMBER 23, 2015 News Journal Local Business Williamsburg Trent Knuckles, Business Editor ([email protected]) Corbin The final week… A TRUE HOMETOWN STORE
Photo submitted Heartwarming effort: Santa Claus stopped by a Forcht Bank location recently to donate gloves for the ‘Warm Hearts’ cloth- ing drive sponsored by the bank. The effort ends Dec. 31. ‘Warm Hearts’ drive enters Business is good: Sears Hometown Store in Corbin cel- ebrated its official grand opening last Friday with a spe- cial ribbon cutting ceremony attended by members of the Southern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Sears employ- final week ees and local officials. Above, Corbin Sears Store Manager Tim Petro cuts the ribbon. At right, Southern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce President Trent Knuckles presents ■ Staff Report Resource Centers and other Petro with a membership plaque. Sears is a member of for the News Journal local charities for distribution the chamber of commerce. Sears was formerly located in to children in need beginning the Trademart Shopping Center, but relocated earlier this Only one week remains January 4, 2016. year to Forest Hills Shopping Center, which is located on for the Forcht Bank “Warm As of December 21st Cumberland Falls Hwy. Hearts” clothing drive that the total number of cloth- began on November 17th. ing items collected were Photos DEAN MANNING The general public is asked 92 scarves, 111 coats, 1053 to drop off any new gloves, pairs of gloves, and 2531 coats, hats, and scarves, hats. Forcht Bank is also sized infant to teen, at any donating $10 for every of Forcht Bank’s 30 loca- checking account opened tions through December during the clothing drive 31st. All clothing collected to purchase additional chil- will be delivered to School dren’s clothing. Kim Dowell announced as new CEO of Jellico Community Hospital; will take over position Jan. 26
■ Staff Report sincere thanks to Keith Richardson, Interim CEO, for his ded- has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of for the News Journal icated service.” Tennessee and Master of Hospital Administration degree from As Kim comes on board and becomes familiar with our Texas Woman’s University-Houston. Community Hospital Corporation and the Jellico organization, she will be working closely with CHC execu- Jellico Community Hospital became part of CHC earlier Community Hospital Board of Directors are pleased to tives and JCH leadership. She and her husband, Mike, will this year, when CHC entered into a relationship with the City announce the hospital’s new CEO, Kim Dowell, RN. She will be relocating to Jellico from Lenoir City, Tenn., where she of Jellico for long-term lease of the hospital facility and its begin her new leadership position on January 25, 2016. was Director of Patient Care Services for Methodist Medical CarePlus Center located in Williamsburg, Ky. “We are excited for Kim to join our organization as we Center in Oak Ridge. With a long history of healthcare ser- CHC owns, manages and supports more than 25 community work collaboratively to ensure that quality of care remains the vice in Tennessee, she held previous roles as CEO of both hospitals nationwide, bringing practical solutions that help priority for our community,” said Allen McClary, chairman Jamestown Regional Medical Center in Jamestown, and community hospitals enhance efficiencies, improve quality of the JCH board. “We are also grateful and want to express Haywood Park Community Hospital in Brownsville. She and strengthen financial stability. Forest Hills Business Center celebrates grand opening
Got a story you’d like Photo by DEAN MANNING A great place to do business: Above, local officials and members of the Southern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce gathered last to see on the business Friday to celebrate the official grand opening of Forest Hills Business Center in Corbin. It is located next to Forest Lanes in the Forest Hills Shopping Center. Arlene Perkins cuts a ribbon to commemorate the event alongside her son, and co-owner of the center, Kyle Perkins. At right, Southern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce President Trent Knuckles presented Perkins with a chamber member- page? Call 528-9767 ship plaque. Duo indicted for allegedly exploitingNEWS JOURNAL — DECEMBER 23, 2015 — A-9 local man by taking $21,000 ■ By Mark White were in Whitley County. tions were in Whitley County. tonly disobeyed a direction to 44 - first-degree possession • Tonya L. Daugherty, 45 - [email protected] According to its monthly • Eddie Baker, 53, of stop given by Corbin Police of a controlled substance. On theft by unlawful taking over report and the indictments, Corbin - first-degree posses- Officer Kenneth Proffitt. Also Nov. 1, she allegedly pos- $500 but less than $10,000. A Whitley County Grand the grand jury handed down sion of a controlled substance on Dec. 12, Allen alleged- sessed a quantity of metham- On Oct. 11, she allegedly Jury has indicted two people several other indictments and second-degree fleeing or ly intentionally damaged phetamine. unlawfully took merchandise in connection with the alleged Monday, including: evading police. On Nov. 7, Proffitt’s uniform, attempt- • Kevin Brimm, 22 - sec- from Wal-Mart. taking of over $20,000 from a • Dewayne Chambers, 35, Baker allegedly possessed ed to prevent officers from ond-degree trafficking in a • John McKiddy, 28 - sec- local man. and Vickie Holt, 36, both of a quantity of methamphet- affecting his arrest and was controlled substance. On July ond-degree trafficking in a The Whitley County Grand Williamsburg - third-degree amine and while on foot wan- carrying a machete. Allen has 17, Brimm allegedly sold a controlled substance. On Jan. Jury issued its monthly report burglary, theft by unlawful tonly disobeyed a direction to prior felony convictions for quantity of Suboxone to a 6, McKiddy allegedly sold a Monday and charged Candice taking over $500 but less stop given by Corbin Police possession of meth precur- confidential informant. quantity of a drug classified Canada, 26, and Dwayne Cox, than $10,000 and second-de- Col. David Maiden, who was sors, third-degree assault of a • Anna Marie Meeler, 44 as a schedule-three controlled 31, with adult exploitation. gree persistent felony offend- trying to serve a warrant on police officer/probation office - first-degree possession of substance. Between Jan. 16, 2015 er. On Oct. 29, Chambers the defendant. and disarming a peace officer. a controlled substance. On • Travis Partin, 33 - first-de- and Dec. 10, 2015, the duo and Holt allegedly entered • Tommy Thompson, 36, of • Jacob Carr III, 45, of Aug. 19, Meeler allegedly gree wanton endangerment. allegedly knowingly diverted a garage owned by Freddie Corbin - first-degree criminal Corbin - flagrant non-support. possessed a quantity of LSD. On Oct. 13, Partin allegedly assets belonging to Dennis Akers with the intent to com- mischief, theft by unlawful On Dec. 14, Carr allegedly • Tyler Ramey, 18 - first-de- wantonly engaged in conduct, Parks, which resulted in a mit a crime and took vari- taking over $500 but less than persistently failed to provide gree possession of a con- which placed Jared Rowe in loss to Parks that exceeded ous items belonging to Akers. $10,000 and second-degree support for his three minor trolled substance. On Nov. risk of serious physical inju- $300. Chambers was previously persistent felony offender. On children while knowing he 23, Ramey allegedly pos- ry. Commonwealth’s Attorney convicted of receiving stolen Oct. 10, Thompson allegedly had an obligation and duty to sessed a quantity of metham- An indictment by informa- Allen Trimble said the defen- property over $300 in 2007 damaged a fence owned by provide the support. phetamine. tion occurs when the defen- dants took about $21,000 in Whitley County. Holt was Gentry’s Automotive causing In addition to Monday’s • Bobby Strunk, 49 - dant, the defendant’s lawyer worth of checks from the vic- previously convicted of traf- in excess of $1,000 damage grand jury indictments, 14 first-degree trafficking in and the prosecuting attor- tim over the course of one ficking in a controlled sub- and took various items from other people have been indict- a controlled substance. On ney agree upon the charge year. stance within 1,000 yards of vehicles belonging to Gentry’s ed by information on various Sept. 14, Strunk allegedly a defendant will be charged The grand jury also indict- a school in 2009 in Whitley Automotive. Thompson has a charges, since the last time unlawfully sold a quantity of with in circuit court in addi- ed Michael Walters Jr., 26, County. prior 2009 felony conviction the grand jury returned indict- methamphetamine. tion to a recommended sen- whose address is listed as • Steven Perkins, 29, Lakin for second-degree trafficking ments on Nov. 13, including: • Ancil Arthur Foley, tence for that crime. the homeless shelter in Ayers, 23, Krysten Stevens, in a controlled substance in • Robert D. Huff, 41 - pos- 57 - first-degree wanton An indictment by the grand Williamsburg, with third-de- 25, and Darren Canada, 26 Whitley County. session of methamphetamine endangerment. On Nov. 28, jury means that evidence was gree rape. - manufacturing methamphet- • Tyler Ramey, 18, of precursors. On Nov. 8, Huff Foley allegedly manifest- presented to the grand jury On Sept. 7, Walters alleged- amine, first-degree traffick- Rockholds - first-degree pos- allegedly had two or more ed an extreme indifference by usually either the victim ly engaged in sexual inter- ing in a controlled substance session of a controlled sub- items used in the manufacture to human life by wantonly or investigating officer and course with a minor under and fourth-degree controlled stance and possession of drug of methamphetamine. engaging in conduct, which at least nine of the 12 grand the age of 16, according to his substance endangerment to paraphernalia. On Nov. 23, • Cotie Huskey, 19 - pos- created a substantial danger jurors agreed that a crime indictment. a child. In addition, Ayers Ramey allegedly possessed session of methamphet- of death or serious physical had at least likely been com- According to his arrest was indicted for being a sec- a quantity of methamphet- amine precursors. On Nov. injury to another person. mitted.
citation, Walters allegedly ond-degree persistent felo- amine and three needles. 8, Huskey allegedly had pos- had sexual intercourse with ny offender. On Sept. 4, the • Joshua Walters, 27, of session of two or more items 606.549.2784 Species
a 15-year-old female victim. group allegedly knowingly Rockholds - first-degree sec- used in the manufacture of
Williamsburg Police Chief and unlawfully manufac- ond-offense trafficking in a methamphetamine. KY Williamsburg, Street, 3rd S. 107 Wayne Bird said that the vic- tured methamphetamine and controlled substance, sec- • Franklin A. Parks, 24 tim’s mother notified author- possessed for sale or trans- ond-degree first-offense traf- - receiving stolen property Furniture ities. fer more than two grams ficking in a controlled sub- under $10,000 and first-de-
He said that Walters and the of methamphetamine. On stance and possession of a gree possession of a con- victim had been communicat- that date they also alleged- firearm by a convicted felon. trolled substance. On Oct. ing with each other and the ly permitted children under On Sept. 26, Walters allegedly 29, Parks allegedly received Williamsburg girl told authorities that the the age of 12 to be present possessed for sale or transfer a motorcycle knowing it to two had sex. in an adjoining apartment over two grams of metham- be stolen and unlawfully pos- Bird said the victim appar- while illegally compounding phetamine, 36 Suboxone, 19 sessed a quantity of metham-
ently willingly had sex with chemicals to make metham- Clonazepam and a Mossberg phetamine.
Walters but was under the age phetamine, which placed the shotgun. He was previously • Crystal Branham, 31 - AT NOW
of consent, which is some- children in danger of seri- convicted of first-degree traf- first-degree possession of HEADREST POWER thing authorities frequently ous physical injury or death. ficking in a controlled sub- a controlled substance. On ë L Z encounter. Ayers has a prior 2013 fel- stance in 2013 in Whitley Nov. 6, Branham allegedly In addition, the grand jury ony conviction for first-de- County. possessed a quantity of meth- RECLINERS POWER indicted Apren Poore, 30, gree promoting contraband in • Megan Patterson, 28, of amphetamine. of Rockholds, charging him Whitley County. Corbin, and David Allen, 29, • Stephanie Dawn Voland, with first-degree assault and • Kelly Coffey, 42, of of East Bernstadt - first-de- for being a first-degree per- Rockholds - first-degree pos- gree trafficking in a controlled sistent felony offender. session of a controlled sub- substance and second-degree On Nov. 3, Poore allegedly stance, possession of a fire- fleeing or evading police. WEIGHT MANAGEMENT CENTER, LLC stabbed Justin Hatfield with a arm by a convicted felon and In addition, Allen was also Here We Grow knife causing serious physi- possession of a handgun by a indicted for third-degree crim- cal injury. convicted felon. On Aug. 28, inal mischief, resisting arrest, According to his indict- Coffey allegedly possessed carrying a concealed deadly ment, Poore has prior felony methamphetamine and vari- weapon and first-degree per- convictions for being a con- ous firearms after previously sistent felony offender. On victed felon in possession of being convicted of manufac- Dec. 12, the duo allegedly a firearm in 2013 and first-de- turing methamphetamine in possessed for sale or transfer gree promoting contraband in 2013 and trafficking in mar- two grams of methamphet- 2010. Both prior convictions ijuana in 2005. Both convic- amine and while on foot wan- WEIGHT MANAGEMENT CENTER, LLC New CMS construction means that As of December 1, 2015 our alternative school must relocate HARROGATE PATIENT’S Site preparation work will begin in mid-January will have a ■ By Dean Manning “The top of the arch will be reinstalled in [email protected] the media center of the new building as a trib- ute to the history of the site,” McNeel said. NEW OFFICE! The Corbin Alternative School will be “We are not sure about the fountain but we returning to its former home at the old Corbin will be looking at placing it at the bottom of City Utilities Building during the holiday the hill,” he added. break as construction crews gear up for the McNeel said any other materials removed start of site work for the new Corbin Middle from the existing buildings would be reincor- Our Office Hours will remain the same: School. porated into the new building where appro- The school, which has about 35 stu- priate. Tuesday 10 - 7 & Friday 9 - 5 dents from Corbin, Whitley County and “That is part of the site package,” McNeel Williamsburg Independent Schools, will be said. (Closed for lunch 1-2) moved back to the building on South Main McNeel said construction on the building Street. is expected to begin in the summer with com- Superintendent Ed McN eel said the build- pletion scheduled for 2018 or early 2019. ing had previously been used as an office The building will house 800 students in complex. While it will be a tight fit for the grades 6-8. There will be 24 traditional class- BRING THIS AD TO school, McNeel said it will be adequate. rooms, five science classrooms, two computer YOUR NEXT VISIT AT OUR The goal, once the new middle school is classrooms and separate classrooms for art, open, is to move the alternative school and band and vocal music. NEW HARROGATE OFFICE the central office to the old middle school As requested by faculty, space has been building. allocated for a stage, high school sized bas- McNeel said the final financial hurdle for ketball court in the gym, piano lab, and addi- FOR AN EXTRA $10 OFF the construction of the new middle school, tional science classroom. selling the $29 million in bonds to finance the The initial cost of the project was esti- (Not Valid With Any Other Offer/ project, was held Dec 16 as scheduled. With mated at $21 million. With the addi- Phentermine Purchase Required the funding in place, and the buildings empty, tion of the sixth grade, the cost increased Valid 12/1/15 - K&K Construction is expected to move for- to $25 million. Under agreement with the ward in mid January. Kentucky Department of Education, Corbin 12/31/15 McNeel said the work, which includes Independent Schools pledged its available extending the next entrance road to the top of bonding capacity of $5.125 million, with the the site and building the parking lots, clearing state funding the remainder. trees, and razing the buildings, is expected to When the board approved the bid packages Our New Office is 1.8 mi. from our take several months. for the project in November, the cost was set current office in the Realty Group II Building While the larger trees on the site must be at $28.350 million. removed, McNeel said attempts will be made McNeel said the school system always has LOOK FOR THE RED TILE ROOF to save as much of the existing shrubbery, a capital projects wish list. Next on the list plants and smaller trees, with the goal of would be a building to house grades 3-5, not- incorporating them into the landscaping of ing neither the existing elementary or inter- FROM KY/VA: 2.8 mi. from tunnel on left just past Oasis Pizza the new building. mediate school buildings can house all three FROM TAZEWELL: Turn right at Harrogate city limit sign Among the requests from the Corbin Board in one place. of Education was that the arch from the orig- “It has always been a dream of mine to inal St. Camillus Academy building, along have a new middle school and a new ele- Our New1-866-563-7553 Office is 1.8 mi. from our with the fountain that now marks its location, mentary school,” McNeel said. “This is just a be saved and incorporated into the project. major step closer to that dream.” currentweightlossatpremier.com office in the Realty Group II Building A-10 — NEWS JOURNAL — DECEMBER 23, 2015 CHASE: Driver nearly hit ERNIE’S parked vehicle and house HAS YOUR From the front page tags from Belk and JC Penney attached. In addition, officers reported finding a plas- Christmas Spirits The incident began about 9:30 p.m. when tic baggy containing a white, powdery sub- Officer Ken Proffitt initiated a traffic stop stance that field tested positive for metham- on Messer’s 2013 Dodge Dart in connection phetamine, along with multiple syringes in a Jim Beam with a complaint of shoplifting at JC Penney. boot and in Messer’s purse. Another loaded Proffitt stated that Messer refused to com- syringe containing an unknown drugs was Gift Set ply with his requests that she shut off the found under the driver’s seat vehicle and exit it. Proffitt stated that Messer admitted to “Officer attempted to open the driver door shooting up drugs. $ 99 but it was locked,” Proffitt stated. “As officer Messer was charged with receiving stolen 13 was doing so, the offender started to roll up property of the value under $10,000, speeding 750 ML her window and hit the gas pedal taking off – 26 mph or greater over the limit, first-de- while officer had a hold of the door handle.” gree fleeing or evading police in a motor Officers initiated the pursuit down Master vehicle, reckless driving, first-degree wanton Street, through downtown and south on Ky. endangerment of a police officer, disregard- Tailgate Ready 26. ing a stop sign, driving under the influence Bud, Bud Light, Crown Royal Proffitt noted that Messer passed other of alcohol/drugs/etc., failure to or improper vehicles in the turning lane and opposite lane, signal, resisting arrest, disregarding a traf- Miller Lite, Gift Set running through multiple traffic lights and fic control device – traffic light, first-degree stop signs. possession of a controlled substance – meth- Coors Light The pursuit turned on to Eatontown Road amphetamine, first-degree possession of a and then to Corinth Cemetery Road. controlled substance – drug unspecified, pos- $ 99 $ 99 At the end of the road, Proffitt said Messer session of drug paraphernalia and theft by 26 21 750 ML turned into a driveway, almost striking a unlawful taking of the value under $500. parked vehicle and the house. Mitchell was charged with receiving stolen 30 pack Proffitt stated that Messer then attempted property of the value under $10,000, first-de- 12 oz. cans to flee from officers on foot and continued gree possession of a controlled substance to resist as officers attempted to secure her in – methamphetamine, possession of drug para- handcuffs. phernalia and public intoxication – controlled Prewitt stated that officers found clothing substance. scattered across the back seat and floorboard Messer and Mitchell are each being held Stella Artois Jagermeister of the car. Neither Messer nor Mitchell could without bond in the Knox County Detention produce receipts for the items, which still had Center. $ 99 $ 99 12 19 750 ML 750 ML CRASH: Empty beer cans Casillero found in floor of vehicle 120 Proof del Diablo KnobKn Creek From the front page dent, Bird said. Byrd is survived by his The accident report notes parents, Jerri Byrd Inman SingleSinS Barrel $ 99 from the vehicle and was there were empty beer cans and Matthew Inman of 9 750 ML flown to the University of in the floor of the vehicle Williamsburg. HandHa Selected Tennessee Medical Center and half a case of beer in the Visitation will be after 5 where he was still unrespon- back seat. p.m. Wednesday at Croley 99 sive as of Sunday, Bird said. Bird said Vanover is facing Funeral Home. 39 750 ML According to a hospital possible criminal charges if The funeral service will be spokesperson Tuesday after- he survives his injuries. at 11 a.m. Thursday at the PersonallyPersoo y SSelectedect by Bourbon Review Editor noon, Vanover was listed in Bird said that the crash was Croley Funeral Home Chapel “critical condition.” both tragic and preventable. with Rev. Robert Caddell and (ONLY AT ERNIE’S) Bird declined to release He said his department Rev. Auston Brown officiat- We Gift Wrap Bottles the name of the passenger in participates in the highway ing. After the funeral, Byrd the vehicle because he was a safety grant program each will be laid to rest in the Ball juvenile, but said he appar- year in an effort to decrease Cemetery. The last wet spot until the Tennessee line! ently died in route to Jellico drunk driving and try to pre- Chief Bird added that www.erniesspirits.net Community Hospital. vent accidents, such as this. police have received infor- Mon - Thur - 7 am -11 pm; 2*6 $2)6% #/2"). +9 s Email: Whitley County Coroner “We try to enforce seatbelt mation from a couple of [email protected] Andy Croley identified use and speed to try to deter sources that some of the Fri - Sat - 7 am -12 pm; "%().$ !00,%"%%3 *534 /&&