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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.

News- April 8, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now at least 1,149 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. This was the single largest growth in cases in a single day, as 147 new cases were confirmed. In addition, seven new deaths were reported Tuesday, raising the state’s total to 65. Governor Beshear provided an update on actions being taken at long-term care facilities, as there have been 77 reported cases of COVID-19 including 55 residents, and 22 staffers as well as 11 deaths. Actions taken include the use of masks in the facility, as well as banning visitation in all but end-of-life situations. The Governor says there are 55 resident tests and 41 staff tests pending. The other concerns are in the Green River Correctional Complex, which has had 14 total cases including nine inmates and five staffers, and Western State Hospital, which has seen 13 cases, including nine patients and four staffers. Actions have been taken at both of these facilities in an effort to fight the spread of the virus.

Kentucky State Police Post Four, as well as other posts in the state, are volunteering as drop-off points for personal protective equipment donations. Those with donations are asked to call the post for drop-off. These items will be donated to healthcare workers in the state to fight the spread of COVID-19.

Several area nursing homes and long term care facilities will be hosting a car parade today at 3 PM. In this show of support for residents and health care professionals, participants, while socially distancing in their own cars, will honk horns and make signs to spread love while remaining safe. The route will begin at the EABC ballpark, and will go through Kensington Center, Elizabethtown Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, and then Signature Healthcare of Elizabethtown. Residents will be at the windows of these facilities and socially distancing on the porch. Participants are asked to not leave their vehicles during this parade.

Two Louisville women have been arrested after allegedly stealing hundreds of dollars of merchandise from a local hardware store. According to arrest records, Devriesha Britt and Raynette Martinez were observed by Lowes loss prevention concealing several pieces of merchandise on April 6th before leaving the store without paying. Britt was also served with warrants stemming from previous shoplifting events in Bullitt and Jefferson County. Britt and Martinez were charged with engaging in organized crime, a Class C felony. Both are lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has announced that beginning today, the Woodland Drive Connector from Cardinal Drive will be closed as the alignment construction project for KY 361 and US 31W continues. Traffic on Cherrywood Drive will not have access to Woodland Drive during this time, and closure signs will be placed on Woodland Drive and Cherrywood Drive. Access will be maintained for residents at all times. The connector will be reopened by 5 PM Wednesday, April 15th.

News- April 7, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are 1,008 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of those cases, 54 were newly confirmed. Unfortunately, yesterday also saw great loss as there were fourteen new deaths reported on Monday, raising the state’s total to 59 confirmed deaths related to the virus. Governor Beshear issued an urgent call for personal protective equipment for frontline workers in the fight against the virus. The Governor listed N95 masks, latex-free gloves, and surgical gowns as the most needed PPE items. In addition, Governor Beshear announced that the state would begin allowing first responders and frontline healthcare workers to quarantine in cabins at state parks in five locations across the Commonwealth if necessary. First responders and healthcare personnel interested in accommodations should contact their local emergency management operations center.

An Elizabethtown man was arrested over the weekend after he was allegedly involved in a domestic incident. According to the Elizabethtown Police Department, officers responded to a residence on Diecks Drive Sunday evening on a call of a domestic assault. The suspect, Michael Berding, allegedly assaulted his girlfriend in their home, and took her phone so she could not call for help. The girlfriend eventually asked a neighbor to call police, and Berding fled before police arrived. When officers left, Berding returned to the residence, allegedly kicking in the door. When police returned, Berding fled again and was eventually found hiding inside of a dumpster near North Dixie. Berding was arrested and charged with assault, fleeing or evading police, and intimidating a participant in the legal process. He was lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center.

The Grayson County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Royal ATV Park in Clarkson on Saturday in response to a two-vehicle ATV crash with injuries. Investigation revealed that a group of friends were riding trails at the ATV park when they approached a right-hand curve. The operator of the first unit reported that he was traveling behind the second unit when it came to a sudden stop. The first unit collided with the bumper of the second, and continued over top of it, trapping unit two underneath and into the path of a tree. The unit two operator, 22-year-old Matthew Dillon of Bardstown, sustained severe head trauma and was transported from the scene by Grayson County EMS. He was later pronounced deceased by the Grayson County Coroner’s Office. Reportedly, no one in the group was wearing a helmet. The investigation is ongoing, but alcohol or drugs does not appear to be a factor in the crash.

With a growing number of organizations needing financial support during the COVID-19 pandemic, one regional foundation is stepping up to help. In a press conference yesterday, the Central Kentucky Community Foundation announced that they had activated their disaster relief fund- Central Kentucky Cares- which will provide support via grants for area non-profits. Those interested in donating can do so online at ckcf4people.org. An application for a grant will be available by the end of the week.

Hardin County Schools has announced they have added three satellite sites to their meal distribution site list; Airview Estates, Fun and Sun, and Jones Do-It Center. A full list of the sites and times for meal distribution can be found on the Hardin County Schools website.

News- April 6, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there were 955 total cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of those cases, 38 were newly confirmed, and at least 306 patients have recovered. There were also five new deaths reported on Sunday, bringing the state total to 45. On a more positive note, Governor Behsear announced that the Governor’s office entered into an agreement with Gravity Diagnostics in Northern Kentucky. The agreement will provide up to 2,000 tests a day that we will be able to use around the state. This would be next day testing, and would be used for symptomatic, high-risk patients, first responders, and health care workers. The Governor says this would significantly increase the number of tests being done in Kentucky on a daily basis. Governor Beshear also noted that he will likely announce further steps to reduce large gatherings later this week.

The Lincoln Trail District Health Department has announced that there are 26 cases of COVID-19 in their service area, with ten cases in Hardin County, two in Larue, five in Marion, two in Meade, four in Nelson, and three in Washington. The health department urges those in their service area not to panic, but to follow guidelines put forth by Governor Beshear including social distancing, and wearing some sort of cloth facemask in settings where social distancing can be more difficult, such as the grocery store. However, the department discourages wearing surgical masks or N95 facemasks, as that takes away resources from healthcare workers who desperately need them.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has announced that starting today, the spur of KY 434 between US 31W and Wilson Road will be closed for removal and reconstruction. Traffic on Wilson Road will have access to US 31W from the new Centennial Avenue connector on the north end or from KY 220 on the south end, and traffic from KY 434 will have access to Wilson Road from the same routes. This area should be reopened to traffic by April 10th.

Ireland Army Health Clinic on Fort Knox is expanding their appointment capabilities in an ongoing effort to improve patient access to care in the face of COVID-19. The clinic announced they will be opening the Nelson Troop Medical Clinic on post beginning today. Nelson TMC has thirteen exam rooms that will be staffed with Fort Knox medical professionals, and is available to beneficiaries who call to schedule appointments. Patients will be told if they are seeing a provider at either Ireland or Nelson when they call to make an appointment.

News- April 3, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced 100 new cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth, bringing the total number of cases to 770. There were 11 new deaths related to the virus reported last night, bringing the state’s total to 31. Governor Beshear said all but one of the deaths, and possibly all of them, were people with other health conditions. In terms of new steps being taken, Governor Beshear recommended Thursday that school districts statewide extend the suspension of in person instruction until May 1st. Non-traditional instruction will still continue during this time. The Governor says that there is a chance that in-person instruction will not be revisited this year, but that the state is not there yet. In other news, Beshear says plans are moving ahead to convert the state fairgrounds in Louisville into a 2,000-bed field hospital. The Governor says the plan is to have the operation together before it is needed. Other executive orders include the temporary banning of overnight stays in Kentucky State Parks and campgrounds, and restricting travel to include people from out of state coming into the Commonwealth. Those entering the state have to follow the same travel restrictions as Kentuckians and self-quarantine for 14 days.

It has been announced that Akebono Production will remain cancelled for the week of April 6th to April 12th. This shutdown is unpaid, however the company offers kcc.ky.gov in order to file for unemployment. More updates will be given as they become available.

When schools across the Commonwealth stopped in-person instruction on March 12th, the number one concern for many was how students would get access to meals. In the nearly three weeks since, area school districts have reported distributing large quantities of meals for students. Hardin County Schools spokesperson John Wright says the district has given out over 120,000 meals. Elizabethtown Independent Schools Superintendent Jon Ballard says their district has distributed 750-1,000 meals a day, and West Point Independent Schools have reported that they have given out close to 2,000 meals since spring break.

Amid all the cancellations and closures related to COVID-19, one Hardin County event is still slated to open on schedule. The Hardin County Farmer’s Market will open for the season tomorrow morning. Market manager Autumn Milliner recognized that while it is difficult, the market is taking several precautions to protect the health of customers, including handwashing stations and spread out vendors. They are also encouraged to preorder and pickup instead of spending time in the pavilion. The farmer’s market has the ability to be open, as they are classified as an agricultural business, which was placed on the essential business list by Governor Beshear.

The gradual removal of a traffic light in Elizabethtown has been completed. As previously reported, the State Highway Department began phasing out the traffic signal at the intersection of Helm Street and North Mulberry. The light is now fully removed, leaving stop signs on Helm Street, and no traffic signal on North Mulberry. The traffic on North Mulberry does not stop, and always has the right of way. The State Highway Department had previously deemed the light unnecessary.

News- April 2, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear confirmed 93 new cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth, bringing the total number of cases to 680. In addition, two more deaths were announced, a 60-year-old male from Davis County and a 76-year-old female from Hopkins County. The Governor stressed the importance of continuing social distancing and not travelling out of state, noting that this was the one thing in this situation that citizens can control. The Governor also touched on the surge in unemployment claims, saying that officials are working to fix problems brought on by the influx. In addition, the National Guard is being called into action in order to assist Kentucky’s food banks in distributing food during this time.

Hardin County Schools has announced that they need help from the community in order to continue providing meals to those in need. The district announced in March that they were accepting donations in order to help pay for meals for those who could not get them for free. However, due to the high demand, those funds have now run dry and more donations are needed. Donations to the meal fund can be made at thepac.net by clicking on the Donate tab.

On Tuesday, the Bardstown Police Department was called for a trespasser in the area of Stephen Foster. Officers engaged a male suspect, identified as Joseph Cahoe. Cahoe stated to officers that he had killed his roommate at 525 North Second Street. Officers responded to the residence and did, in fact, find a deceased male. Cahoe faces charges of murder. The case is ongoing.

An Elizabethtown woman is seeking assistance with hospital bills after seeking a heart transplant for her four-month-old daughter. Megan Eades, a friend of the mother, Beth Dugas, says that medical bills have already reached the $1 million mark. To donate to the family, visit gofundme.com/miraclesformadison. $2000 has been raised so far for the family.

The fallout related to COVID-19 extends even into the waste disposal industry. In a release issued yesterday, Hardin County Government stated they are changing their guidelines related to trash disposal. Items should be placed in a garbage bag, tightly closed, and should be placed in a garbage receptacle. Crews have been instructed not to pick up loose debris or bags. Residents wishing to dispose of large or bulk items can take them directly to Pearl Hollow landfill.

News- April 1, 2020

94.3 The Wolf

Yesterday marked one of the toughest days for the Commonwealth thus far in the fight against COVID-19, as Governor Andy Beshear announced that there were 114 new cases of the virus in the state. In addition, seven more deaths related to the illness were announced, bringing the state’s total to 18. All of these victims had underlying health conditions. In terms of new steps being taken, Governor Beshear announced that the child care options that the state has been providing to first responders and health care workers will be expanded to grocery store workers as well. In addition, the Governor announced that an order was issued to allow critical workforce sectors such as fire departments, law enforcement, emergency medical service personnel, park rangers, and corrections officers to rehire previously retired workers to fill key roles. The order will last the duration of the state of emergency.

The city of Elizabethtown has received a grant from the federal government. In a press release Tuesday, 2nd District Representative Brett Guthrie announced the grant from the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which totals over $115,000. The city has already received federal grants from last week’s passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, or the CARES Act, which gives municipalities like Elizabethtown the ability to use the money as they deem necessary in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

A Vine Grove police officer is being hailed a hero after saving the life of an infant. According to a post from the department’s Facebook page, officers responded to a call of a possible cardiac episode Tuesday morning in Vine Grove. Two officers arrived and found an infant child in the floor with a parent and provided CPR until medical crews arrived. Chief Kenneth Mattingly says Officer Jones with Vine Grove PD will be honored with the deparment’s life-saving award at the next City Council meeting. He says he will also nominate Jones for the Hardin County Fire Chief’s Life-saving Award.

A regional food bank will be receiving a donation to help with supplies. Feeding America Kentucky’s Heartland will receive a $5000 donation from retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel, and current Senate hopeful, Amy McGrath. Feeding American Kentucky’s Heartland also announced that they would be closing their office and Volunteer Services to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Food distribution will still continue as scheduled. Those who need good assistance can still call the office.

April marks the beginning of Child Abuse Awareness Month, and advocates want to make sure that the facts are not forgotten despite the COVID-19 pandemic. In Hardin County alone, in latest statistics, there were 1312 reports and 957 substantiated reports. Spokesperson for the Community Collaboration for Children Linda Funk says that anyone who is aware of child abuse taking place is encouraged to still notify someone who can help. Kentucky is ranked number one in the nation in cases of child abuse and neglect.