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News- April 22, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

Hardin County Schools announced last night that the contract of West Hardin Middle School teacher Robbie Thompson has been terminated, effective immediately. The Kentucky Attorney General’s office notified Hardin County Schools that Thompson had been arrested Tuesday on child pornography charges. Thompson was in his first year at West Hardin after coming to the district in 2018 to teach math at James T. Alton Middle School. The investigation is ongoing, and Hardin County Schools is fully cooperating with law enforcement officers during this time.

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 3,192 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of those cases, 177 were newly confirmed. It is believed that 1,226 people have recovered from the virus. However, yesterday saw 17 new deaths reported, the single greatest amount in a day, bringing the state’s total to 171. The Governor also introduced the Healthy at Work initiative, which offers a phased approach to reopening Kentucky’s economy. During phase one of Healthy at Work, the Kentucky Department for Public Health will determine whether Kentucky has met certain public health benchmarks, which closely followed the White House’s guidelines. Phase two will see the Department of Public Health evaluating individual businesses ability to safely reopen. Each business proposal is required to explain its ability to provide personal protective equipment to employees, adequate access to hand sanitizer and disinfectant, and minimal direct contact between employees and the public.

Kentucky State Police Post 4 arrested a Breckinridge County man after a domestic incident with his parents. According to arrest citations, officers were called to Pierce Mill Road in Constantine after an altercation between the parents and their son, Bradley Horn. Reportedly, Horn had flipped several items during the argument, and had begun yelling at his mother. When his father stepped in to intervene, Horn punched him in the face, causing swelling to his left eye. The parents left the residence, but Horn followed, throwing items including a machete out of the home. Horn fired a rifle into the ground in front of the two when his mother attempted to call police. The parents left the residence to get away from Horn, but when they returned, he left the residence, returning to collect different items. Horn was arrested and charged with wanton endangerment and assault. He was lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center.

With testing sites starting to increase around the Commonwealth, Attorney General Daniel Cameron is cautioning individuals about testing scams. In a PSA, Cameron explains that those seeking testing should contact their healthcare physician for testing information. Residents can also call their local health department to check the validity of a testing site. Fake testing sites should be reported to the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-432-9257.

News- April 21, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

Following the guidance from Governor Andy Beshear, Hardin County Schools and Elizabethtown Independent Schools have laid out their plans for the rest of the school year. Both districts will continue non-traditional instruction for the rest of the school year, however the date of the last day of school is different for the two districts. For Hardin County Schools the last day of school will be May 15th, and for Elizabethtown Independent Schools, the last day will be May 8th. Navigating through this tough time has proven to be a challenge, but the hopeful plan is to return to normal by next school year. Hardin County Schools spokesperson John Wright reiterates that the district loves and cares for the students, and the good of the community and the students come first. In a post on the Elizabethtown Independent Schools Facebook page, the district thanks the families of students for their patience and perseverance during this time. In his evening press conference last night, Governor Beshear acknowledged the difficulty, saying that the accomplishments of students this year are no less important than any other year. The Governor said that even though an in-person graduation or prom won’t happen, he thanked students for making the sacrifice in order to save lives. This step is in accordance with White House guidance, and is being followed in other states including Ohio, Indiana, and Tennessee.

In his evening press conference, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 3,050 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of these cases, 102 were newly confirmed. It is believed that 1,144 people have recovered from the virus, however there were six new deaths reported Monday, bringing the state’s total to 154.

With warmer weather starting to stay, officials with the Elizabethtown Police Department are reminding the public that break-ins usually increase during this time of year, even in the midst of a pandemic. Officer John Thomas says not to leave valuables in vehicles at all costs, and to lock doors of vehicles in order to prevent things such as wallets, purses, or firearms from being stolen.

In an attempt to better care for COVID-19 patients and protect other patients and staff, Hardin Memorial Hospital is introducing new negative pressure rooms. These rooms keep germs or viruses from flowing out into the hallway and hospital, rather exhausting it out of the room, claims Assistant Vice President Steve White. Ten beds in intensive care and ten in critical care have been converted to these negative pressure rooms.

News- April 20, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 2,960 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of these cases, 273 were newly confirmed, which marks the highest number of new cases thus far. In addition, it was reported that 1,122 people have recovered from the virus, however there were also four new deaths reported on Sunday, bringing the state’s total to 148. Governor Beshear praised Kentucky’s heroes, and all the forms they come in including frontline heroes such as grocery store employees and first responders, everyday heroes, including those who are staying healthy at home, and health care heroes, who put themselves in harm’s way everyday in order to help the public. Governor Beshear also reported details about announced benchmarks that the Commonwealth must meet in order to start safely reopening the state’s economy while keeping Kentuckians safe. These seven benchmarks reflect White House criteria and include 14 days of decreasing cases, increased testing capability and contact tracing, personal protective equipment availability, ability to protect at risk populations, ability to social distance, preparedness for possible future spike, and status of vaccine and treatment.

Cooperation between two local law enforcement agencies resulted in the arrest of two men suspected in an Iowa homicide. On Friday, the Elizabethtown Police Department was contacted by Radcliff Police, who were seeking assistance in serving two felony arrest warrants. The suspects, Elijah and Milton McAbee, were wanted for a 2019 Iowa homicide. Milton McAbee was taken into custody at a residence in Radcliff while Elijah was apprehended in Elizabethtown. Officer Chris Denham says the arrests were made without incident. Both men were lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center.

A Hardin County man was arrested yesterday after leading police on a high-speed pursuit. According to officials, a Kentucky State Police trooper observed a vehicle make an improper turn on Bacon Creek Road shortly after midnight on Sunday. When the trooper activated his lights, the vehicle fled, allegedly reaching speeds of up to 80 miles per hour. When attempting to make a turn, control of the vehicle was lost and the car came to a rest. The driver, Prentice Wheeler, exited the vehicle and fled on foot into the woodline. Troopers were able to apprehend Wheeler a short time after. Wheeler was arrested and charged with fleeing and evading police, wanton endangerment, and reckless driving among other charges. He was lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center.

The Lincoln Trail District Health Department has announced that there are 64 total cases of COVID-19 in the district. The case breakdown is as follows: 28 in Hardin, 13 in Marion, three in Meade, 13 in Nelson, and three in Washington. Currently, 57 cases are on home isolation or have been released from monitoring. For reliable information and updates, visit the Health Department’s website, ltdhd.org, or the Kentucky state website, kycovid19.gov.

News- April 17, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 2,429 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of those cases, 159 were newly confirmed. It was also reported that, in total, 956 people have recovered from the virus. However, there were seven new deaths reported on Thursday, bringing the state’s total to 129. In terms of new steps, the Governor announced four new testing sites coming online next week, part of the state’s partnership with Kroger to provide drive-thru testing. These sites will be in Madisonville, Paducah, Somerset, and Pikeville. Again, these tests are for those exhibiting symptoms, health care workers, first responders, and those who are high risk who may have been exposed to the virus. For location details, or to register for a test, visit krogerhealth.com/covidtesting. The Governor also announced the opening of state shelters in Lake Barkley and Lake Cumberland State Parks to house people ill with, or who may have been exposed to COVID-19. The facilities will be made available to patients or guests who can care for themselves with minimal medical intervention.

An annual summertime tradition for children in the area has been postponed. The annual Children’s Fair, sponsored by Heart of Kentucky Association of Realtors, announced that the 25th edition of the event would be postponed until a later date. The event was postponed due to concerns and health guidelines set forth regarding COVID-19. The fair has run annually since the summer of 1995.

Hardin County Schools will release earlier than previously expected this year. The Board of Education voted last night to amend the school district’s school year calendar. May 15th will now be the final day of instruction for students. Teachers will still have to work their contractually obligated dates, with a closing day scheduled for May 22nd. Graduation dates for the three high schools are still on schedule at this time.

With the Kentucky Derby officially moved to September 5th, people can get their hands on what is sure to be unique pieces of Derby memorabilia, and the proceeds go to a good cause. The Kentucky Derby Museum’s online store is now selling dated Derby merchandise from what would have been this year’s Run for the Roses, May 2nd. 20% of proceeds from the purchased items will go to two local COVID-19 funds. The sale runs until May 3rd.

The list of cancellations due to COVID-19 continues to grow as the Forecastle Festival, which was scheduled to have its 18th edition this year, has been called off. In a statement from event staff, disappointment was expressed, but it was also noted that the safety and health of fans, artists, staff, and community was a higher priority. Tickets will be automatically refunded at point of purchase, and purchasers will receive an e-mail with details on timing and processing. The event promises to be back even stronger in 2021.

The BBQ, Blues, and Bikes Festival in Elizabethtown has been cancelled for this year due to COVID-19. According to Executive Director of the Heritage Council Stacy Reynolds says the Council attempted to find a reschedule date for the event, but the lack of open dates paired with the current uncertainties made it necessary to cancel the event, citing that public safety is of the utmost importance. Refunds will be issued on all vendors and ride registrations. Sponsorships will also be fully refunded or be given the option to sponsor next year’s event.

News- April 16, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are currently 2,291 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of those cases, 88 were newly confirmed. In addition, it was reported that 862 have recovered from the virus, however there were seven new deaths reported last night, brining the state’s total to 122. In terms of new steps, the Governor announced the first stage of a unique testing regiment, and partnership with Louisville Metro Government, the Christina Lee Brown Environmental Institute, and the University of Louisville designed to save lives and get people back to work quicker. The goal of the regiment, called the Co-Immunity Project is to check antibodies in those who have had the virus to see if there is a level of immunity. This would be the beginning steps to allow those with a level of immunity to assist in public places and help those in need. The Governor also announced that his administration is deepening ties with neighboring Indiana and Ohio in order to eventually coordinate plans to reopen the economies of the states. Governor Beshear says the leaders will continue regular calls and planning sessions over the coming weeks, with updates being provided as actions are taken.

As part of the CARES Act passed by Congress, the Payroll Protection Program has been created to help small businesses make payroll during this time of uncertainty. That uncertainty even extended to the banks tasked with helping customers apply for the loans. Brandon Fogle with South Central Bank explained that while the beginning of the program rollout was rough, the response from clients has been positive and fulfilling. More information about the Payroll Protection Program can be found at sba.gov.

An Elizabethtown man was arrested after police say he allegedly tried to break into a man’s car while he was in it. According to a warrant, William Masden approached a car that was parked at the Park and Ride on East Dixie in Elizabethtown. The victim, who was asleep in the car, noticed Masden allegedly trying to break in to the vehicle. When the victim opens the door, Masden began to beat him with a wooden club and grabbed a machete out of the car. Masden fled, and was later found in the middle of I-65 with significant injuries. Masden was charged with first-degree robbery and was lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center.

Just weeks after the census count officially began, government officials are encouraging citizens to fill out and complete their census information. 2nd District Representative Brett Guthrie explains that not only is it important when it comes to reapportioning Congress, but federal aid money and electoral votes are also impacted by the results of the Census. More information can be found online at 2020census.gov.

News- April 15, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 2,210 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of those cases, 177 were newly confirmed. In addition, 653 people have recovered from the virus. However, there were 11 new deaths reported last night, bringing the state’s total to 115. In terms of updates, Governor Beshear lauded the public’s response to the Team Kentucky Fund, including from the Order of Kentucky Colonels, who donated the largest amount seen so far towards the fund; $1 million. In addition, the Governor applauded the public’s efforts in donating personal protective equipment, but stressed that more is still needed. An update was also given on unemployment from Josh Benton of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet who reassured those who have not gotten the service they need that the government assumes responsibility, and they are working on it. Benton said the top reason that claims are tied up in the system is that the claim is still within the 13 to 15 day window since filing.

As stimulus checks from the CARES Act begin to deposit across the country, residents are being cautioned about possible scams related to the CARES Act. 2nd District Representative Brett Guthrie says that the government will not contact individuals by text, phone, or e-mail requesting access to their bank account. Individuals who filed taxes last year are eligible for the $1200 check with $500 for every child under 17 years old; however, those who are claimed as dependents on last year’s tax documents are not eligible for the check.

The controversial voter ID bill that has seen much debate in the Kentucky General Assembly has passed. Yesterday, the Kentucky Senate obtained a 2/3 override vote in favor of the measure, which would require all residents to show their ID when attempting to vote. Proponents of the bill say it will help to shore up election security, but those who oppose it, including Governor Andy Beshear, say it promotes voter suppression. The Governor previously vetoed the bill when it reached his desk, but both the House and the Senate overrode the Governor’s veto. The law would go into effect before the November presidential election.

The Kentucky Community and Technical College system will receive approximately $34 million from the CARES Act. Each of the 16 colleges in the KCTCS will receive a portion of these funds. Locally, this means that Elizabethtown Community and Technical College will be receiving $2,426,734. This emergency financial aid can be used by students for course materials, technology, housing, food, healthcare, and childcare costs. KCTCS should receive further information and guidance on when and how the funds will be distributed to students.

A Hardin County business is doing something special to help spread some good will during this time of uncertainty. In a video posted to the Hardin County Schools Facebook page yesterday, District Spokesperson John Wright announced that Kat’s Mobile Kitchen had paid off the lunch debt of North Hardin High School. Owner Kat Hennemut says the act was a continuation of a previous donation to other schools in the north end of the county. Hennemut says the next step is to pay off the lunch debt at John Hardin High School.

Yesterday, the Supreme Court extended the suspension of in person court services to May 31st in order to ensure ongoing social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. The order restricts dockets, jury trials, and jury service from taking place at court facilities, and requires court proceedings to be done remotely.

Southeast Christian Church is partnering with the American Red Cross in holding blood drives at many of their locations, and the drive for the Elizabethtown location is scheduled for tomorrow. Michael Kast, a preacher with Southeast Christian, says many precautions, including constant sanitation of the donation space, will be taken to ensure safety. Temperatures will also be taken before anyone is allowed to go into the building. Donations can only be made by appointment, and those appointments can be scheduled at southeastchristian.org. Times for the blood drive go from 1-7 PM.

News- April 14, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 2,048 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of these cases, 84 were newly confirmed. In addition, an unfortunate mark was met, as Governor Beshear announced seven new deaths, bringing the state’s total to 104. The Governor ordered flags at all state office buildings to be lowered to half mast in honor of those lost to the disease. The Governor said that the first day of drive-thru testing in Franklin County was a success, and announced a second planned location set to open on Wednesday. This location will be in Kenton County, and will shoot for 250 tests per day. Registration for this site is open to those who qualify, and can be completed at thelittleclinic.com/drivethru-testing. In addition, the Governor gave an update on the field hospital being set up at the Kentucky State Fairgrounds, noting that there are now more than 250 beds on site. The plan is to have 2,000 beds, and the Governor says the work is ahead of schedule and thanked the National Guard for their continued efforts.

As the Commonwealth continues to see increases in positive cases, so does the Lincoln Trail District Health Department. In their daily press release yesterday afternoon, the department confirmed a total of 57 cases so far in the region, with one new case being reported in Hardin, Larue, and Marion counties. In total, 19 individuals have been released from their home isolations, with 30 cases still partaking in self-quarantine at home.

The Elizabethtown Police Department arrested two men Saturday morning after an armed robbery. According to reports, the incident took place on Friday night. Allegedly, Bradley Felkins, the driver, and Evan Miller, the passenger, picked up an individual whom had requested a ride from the two. In the area of French Street and Metts Court, Felkins turned in his seat and pointed a firearm at the victim, telling him to give up his money and phone and get out of the car. The victim complied, and Felkins and Miller fled the scene. Luckily, the victim was uninjured. The two were apprehended and charged with robbery. They are lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center.

Elizabethtown Community and Technical College has established a donor-based program to help remove financial obstacles that may prevent students from continuing or successfully completing their college education during the COVID-19 pandemic. This fund is called the Student Emergency Fund, and relies on donations in order to disperse assistance. Those interested in donating to the fund should visit elizabethtown.kctcs.edu/studentemergencyfund. The application link will be shared with students when it becomes available.

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the American Red Cross is dealing with a shortage of blood. To help combat this problem, the City of Elizabethtown will be hosting a blood drive to help boost supplies. The drive, which will occur on April 27th, will take place at the Historic State Theater in Downtown Elizabethtown. However, donations will be by appointment only to ensure the safety of donors and staff alike. More information can be found at redcrossblood.org.

News- April 13, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 1,963 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of these cases, 134 were newly confirmed. Also of these cases, 607 have recovered from the virus. However, there were three new deaths reported last night, bringing the state’s total to 97. The Governor announced a partnership last night that will greatly expand the testing capability in Kentucky. Kroger is partnering with state government in an effort to test up to 20,000 people statewide over the next five weeks. This would almost double the amount of tests done so far. Kroger is providing the medical personnel, personal protective equipment, and sign-up portal for those to register. This is a drive-thru testing site, the first of which will open in Franklin County. The Governor says he hopes to announce three more sites in the next two weeks. These tests are for those with symptoms, health care workers, first responders, those aged 65 and older, and those with chronic health conditions. Test results will be expected within approximately 48 hours with the new site. Kentuckians who are eligible can register online at thelittleclinic.com/drivethru-testing.

While Easter Sunday was different for many this year, it was business as usual for one church in Bullitt County. Maryville Baptist in Hillview continued to hold gatherings Sunday, weeks after Governor Beshear called for all mass gatherings across the state to cease. On Sunday, Kentucky State Police troopers were in the parking lot of the church collecting license plate numbers, which will be used to find those who attended and have them self-quarantine for 14 days. Last week, the Kentucky Cabinet of Health and Family Services sent an enforcement notice to the church, calling on them to cease gatherings immediately.

Relief is on the way for some Americans in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it might be arriving as soon as this week. In an interview last Friday, 2nd District Representative Brett Guthrie says the much-talked about stimulus checks, $1200 per adult, might be deposited into bank accounts this week. There are a few exceptions to those who will receive the checks, including high-earners and college students, among others. The $2.2 trillion CARES Act also includes the Payroll Protection Program, which is designed to help businesses cover their payroll.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is alerting Hardin County residents of a closure due to railroad construction. According to the department, railroad work will require closure of the KY 224, or Grayson Street, crossing in Upton today. This is expected to only be a one-day closure. The majority of planned railroad work in Hardin County took place last week.

News- April 10, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are at least 1,452 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of these cases, 134 were newly confirmed. Also of these cases, 395 have recovered from the virus. However, there were also six new deaths reported on Thursday, bringing the state’s total to 79. In terms of new orders, Governor Beshear made the decision to close Natural Bridge and Cumberland Falls State Resort parks due to concerns related to public gathering. The Governor stresses not using resort parks for socializing or gatherings, or else others will have to be closed as well. In addition, Governor Beshear has expanded the number of workers who can receive workers compensation if they are ordered to be quarantined. This includes military, active National Guard, child-care workers, grocery store workers, domestic violence shelter workers, corrections officers, postal workers, and Department of Community Based Services workers.

The first COVID-19 related death has taken place in the region. In a statement released yesterday, the Lincoln Trail District Health Department confirmed that a Meade County resident, who had previously been diagnosed with the virus, had succumb to the illness. No additional information on the individual has been released at this time.

The Larue County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in locating two missing teens. 16-year-old Taylor Flatt and 17-year-old Cole Roberts have been reported missing by their families. It is possible that the two missing juveniles are together. Information on the whereabouts of Taylor or Cole should be directed to the Larue County Sheriff’s Office or other local authorities. Photos of the two are available to view on the Larue County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page.

Fort Knox is making the public aware of a change in policy currently on post. Beginning today, anyone visiting a public or shopping facility on post is required to wear a face covering at all times. This includes the visitor center, post office, and Lindsey Golf Course Pro Shop among others. The health code on post currently is “Charlie”.

The Lincoln Trail District Health Department has announced that there are currently 48 cases of COVID-19 in their service area. The breakdown of cases is as follows: 22 in Hardin, two in Larue, ten in Marion, two in Meade, nine in Nelson, and three in Washington. However, despite all the negativity, the department is doing their best to share the positive things happening as well. Public Health Director Sarah Jo Best noted that the majority of those with the virus have been able to isolate at home, not having to go to a hospital. In addition, there are some who are actively recovering from the virus and being released from quarantine. The department continues to urge residents to practice safe social distancing and to follow the Governor’s ten-step plan.

News- April 9, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 1,346 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of those cases, 204 were newly confirmed, the largest single day growth thus far. Eight new deaths were also reported on Wednesday, raising the state’s total to 71 deaths related to the virus. In an effort to help stop the spread of the virus, Governor Beshear and his staff passed a new executive order that will only allow one adult per household into stores that are still open, such as grocery stores and pharmacies, at a time. Exceptions will be made for single parents or caregivers for adults who cannot be left alone. In addition, a previous executive order was extended to allow pharmacists to dispense emergency refills for up to another 30-day supply. The Governor’s Office also banned door-to-door selling, and warned against any sort of mass gathering this weekend, including church services.

One of the region’s largest healthcare providers has seen a decrease in volume during COVID-19. According to numbers obtained from Hardin Memorial Hospital, the month of march saw many categories, including endoscopies, radiology, and emergency room volume present a decrease in patients. Chief Marketing and Development Officer Tracee Trout says that numbers were down in large part due to the cancellation of elective procedures, which went into effect March 18th. Trout says that regardless, HMH stands ready to care for the community. One aspect that the hospital has seen an increase in is births, with over 130 taking place last month.

Trash collection around the area has seen a change. Hardin County Government has announced that all trash must be placed in a trash bag that is tied shut, and placed in a receptacle. In a statement, Hardin County Solid Waste Director Stephanie Givens said that the change was made in an effort to protect the health and safety of sanitation workers amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Givens also said that trash that is not bagged and placed in a can will not be picked up. Those with large items can still take them for drop-off at the Pearl Hollow Landfill.