Randy L. Meadors

Randy L. Meadors, age 56, of Williamsburg, Kentucky departed this life on April 22, 2024 at the Baptist Health in Corbin, Kentucky.
Randy was born on June 4, 1967 in Williamsburg, Kentucky to Kelly and Clema Jean Meadors.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kelly and Clema Jean Meadors and grandparents, Clyde M. Meadors and Sally Florence Meadors.
Randy worked for the Whitley County Board of Education, current employee at the Whitley County Fiscal Court Road Department, owned and operated Meadors Logging with his two brothers.
Randy enjoyed playing music at church and for his wife, family and friends. Randy was a member and attended Sanders Creek Church of God. Randy loved spending his free time at the racetrack, since a young age. His loved continued to grow into a passion for racing.
Randy is survived by his wife, Rebecca Brooke Meadors; daughters, Skylar Moses, Ashley Meadors, Breanna Meadors, and Madison Moses; grandchildren, Oakley Meadors, Everleigh Rose, Paisley Rose, Brena Moses, and Everlee Moses; two brothers, Steve Meadors (Michele) and Kenny Meadors (Rhonda); grandmother-in-law, Matilda Cox; brother-in-law, Kevin Moses (Brandi); father-in-law, Wayne Moses; several nieces, nephews, and a host of other family and friends to mourn his passing.
Visitation will be after 6:00 PM on Friday, April 26, at the Croley Funeral Home Chapel.
Funeral service will be at 12:00 PM on Saturday, April 26, at the Croley Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Bill Meadors and Rev. John Rhoades officiating.
He will be laid to rest in the Thomas Cemetery on Hwy 511.
Croley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

 

Community partners helped make 2nd Annual Superhero Day a success

On Saturday, March 31st, Whitley County Health Department hosted its second annual Superhero Day at Patriot Park on the campus of the University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg. About a thousand people braved icy winds to come together to support children and families in our community. There were egg hunts, food, games, first responders, prizes, resources and fun made possible by many community partners who donated time, funds, and activities to make this a completely free event for our community.

The root of Superhero Day is Child Abuse Prevention Month, which occurs every April. There are lots of things that put children at risk for abuse. However, there are many more protective factors that can keep them safe. Superhero Day is about demonstrating, supporting, and sharing some of those protective factors. The day is about reminding all of us we are superheroes for the children in our community and they need us.

Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky identifies some ways communities can prevent child abuse by supporting healthy children who can grow up to build strong communities. Superhero Day highlights each of these:

• Support local law enforcement, child protective workers and educators who are working daily to strengthen families and keep children safe.

• Offer educational programs on parenting, job skills and child development.

• Offer after-school activities, counseling and activities for children.

• Be supportive of prevention programs in our community.

• Distribute prevention information and materials throughout the community.

• Support nonprofit youth-serving organizations in our community.

• Donate resources to families in need.

• Educate youth about personal safety and prevention strategies.

• Share resources like the hotline to call if you suspect child abuse is 1-877-597-2331 or the website www.pcaky.org to find more information or support.

As mentioned, Superhero Day could not happen without the support of the community. We would like to thank these superheroes:

Aetna Better Health of Kentucky, Baptist Health Corbin, Baptist Health Behavioral Health, Bell-Whitley CAA, Bolton’s Towing, Brenda Lee’s Balloons, Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, Christ Is Faith Ministry, City of Williamsburg, Cumberland River Victims Services, Cupcakes Travel Company, Dayspring Health, Department for Community-Based Services, Eldorado Restaurant, Firestone, Friendship Center, Full-Service Community Schools Whitley County, Girl Scouts of KY’s Wilderness Road, Hodge’s Barber Shop, Horizon Health KY, Hot Pink Boutique, Intrust Healthcare, JimBo’s Appliances, Jones’ Pit Stop, KYNECT, Mr. Gatti’s Pizza, Necco Foster Care, Nurture Nest Counseling, Operation UNITE, Partners for Rural Impact, Rickett’s Pharmacy, Save the Children, Sabor Latino Mexican Restaurant, Sullivan’s Towing, The Creek Church, Therapeutic Solutions, United Way of the Bluegrass 211, University of the Cumberlands, Walmart Williamsburg, WellCare of Kentucky, Whitley County Adult Education, Whitley County Cooperative Extension, Whitley County Dispatch/Emergency Management, Whitley County Emergency Medical Services, Whitley County Family Resource/Youth Services Centers, Whitley County High School Boys’ Basketball Team, Whitley County Housing Authority, Whitley County Public Library, Whitley County Fiscal Court/Road Crew, Williamsburg Fire Department, Williamsburg Police Department, Williamsburg Tourism and Winds of Change.

That is right–over 50 partners helped make Superhero Day a success for our community! There were hundreds of people representing these organizations who worked hard alongside the ragtag team from the Whitley County Health Department to make the day a great one for children and families. We cannot wait until next year!

 

UC honored during 28th Annual Governor’ Service Awards

Gov. Andy Beshear recognized exceptional volunteerism and service contributions at the 28th Annual Governor’s Service Awards located at The Foundry in Frankfort Tuesday, including handing out an award to a University of the Cumberlands (UC) program.

“Today, we recognize selfless individuals and organizations that have made a significant impact in our communities,” Beshear said Tuesday. “Even small acts of kindness can have a powerful effect by showing what is possible. Every Kentuckian has a unique talent that can be shared.”

Serve Kentucky, an agency within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, coordinates the annual awards ceremony, which included 14 individual and 16 group awards.

Among the group awards was a Faith-Based Service Award to the University of the Cumberlands Shoes 4 the Soul event.

Each year, as a new school year begins, UC students and staff assist hundreds of children by providing new shoes, socks, hygiene items and backpacks filled with school supplies at an event called Shoes 4 the Soul.

Started in 2011, Shoes 4 the Soul has positively impacted thousands of children in the Whitley County area. Based on Christ’s actions in John 13, UC students, faculty and staff wash the feet of children and fit them with new shoes and socks. Children are identified through school family resource centers, with sizes provided to the university. UC students also serve as guides and friends to the elementary students.

On Sept. 15, under the leadership of Cumberlands’ Campus Ministries Team, Shoes 4 the Soul celebrated its 12th anniversary with 300 volunteers. Thanks to significant donor and alumni support, 600 sets of little feet were washed by UC student volunteers led by Jesus’ example.

All 600 smiling local elementary school children received new shoes, socks and backpacks, enhancing their readiness for the school year. UC student volunteers, once recipients of the event, now help to make the experience as special for others as it was for them.

The Shoes 4 the Soul event at UC continues to be a powerful tradition, showcasing the institution’s dedication to community service and well-being of local children. The impressive numbers and involvement of UC students, faculty and staff highlights the enduring significance of this annual event.

Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander said he’s inspired by those who light the world with their service: “From foster care to after-school tutoring, hunger relief to mobile dentistry, conflict resolution and so much more, you make a tremendous difference in the lives of Kentuckians. Congratulations to the class of 2023 and thank you for your service.”

 

Community will benefit from generous donation of historical documents to CPL

Monday, I met with H.E. “Hank” Everman, a true historian, at the Corbin Public Library. Many of us with age have our history in our memories. Not Hank. He specialized in American History and Social Studies at the University of Kentucky, from which he graduated in 1963. He earned a Ph.D. in 1970 from LSU. He taught at LSU and returned to Kentucky in 1970 to teach at Eastern Kentucky University. He has written numerous articles for state and regional quarterlies, encyclopedias, and magazines.

His reason for visiting the Corbin Public Library was to deliver boxes of historical documents and pictures about Corbin’s history. After categorizing the material it will become a part of the Corbin History room at the library, of which Diane Mitchell and others are working to establish.

My first question was what is a person who lives in Richmond doing with so many pictures and documents about Corbin. Everman attended East Ward School in Corbin, but later moved and graduated from Paris High School in Bourbon County. The real reason he had a treasure of information about Corbin was because of his father-in-law, the late F.D. “Jack” Heath, had urged him to research Corbin’s history.

The first thing I asked to see was a copy of the 1957 Corbin High School annual. Our news reporter Trevor Sherman quickly found it.

I don’t have a personal copy of the annual and looking at the pictures in it brought back wonderful memories. That is what the history room will do for many of us while it will be informational also. Thanks to Everman for the valuable donation.

The people working to establish the history room are also working to digitize the collection. This is a great. It doesn’t matter whether you have lived here a short time or all your life, Corbin’s history is something you will enjoy. And for those of you in Williamsburg, the same is true. A visit to the Genealogical Society in the old depot building is very worthwhile.

• Now on to another subject. I am so glad the world did not end when Coach Calipari left Kentucky. Some acted as it would while others wanted him gone. All is well, the Pope is here.

This leads me to my story of why I became a fanatic of Kentucky basketball at a very young age. I sat at the kitchen table with my dad and listened to every game. I knew all the players names and I kept a scoring sheet.

One of the reasons I was such a fanatical fan was because of Bird, Hagan, Ramsey, Newton, Hall, Crigler, Adkins, Smith, Mills, Cox, Hatton, and more.  I guess you get the picture, they were all Kentucky high school stars winning NCAA championships for Kentucky. Of course, Groza and other out of state players contributed greatly.

Reed Sheppard brought back some of that feeling this past season, but college basketball has changed so much it no longer resembles the greatness of the past. Money, NIL, and today’s rules. I’m lukewarm compared to the days when Kentucky ruled.

In 1958, I was a sophomore at UK when they won the championship. We listened to the game on the radio and then we celebrated the win by walking to Main Street where a big bonfire was glowing. That’s how us young and crazy kids celebrated. I rode a Greyhound bus to the UKIT when school was not in session and stayed for the tournament in my dorm room. One time the snow was so bad that I asked Claude Sullivan, the UK radio announcer, to tell my parents over the radio that I made it to Lexington safely. I wish I had the fire that I had back then. Maybe the Pope will bring it back.

 

Child abusers are often people who are both known and trusted

Stranger danger. It’s what us adults tend to warn kids about.

Beware of the stranger in the park, who offers you candy or wants you to help them look for their lost puppy.

Beware of the weirdo driving the van with no windows. He might pull up along beside you while you are on the sidewalk and kidnap you.

Yes, these are all legitimate dangers that children need to be educated about.

However, the odds of a child being molested by a stranger is actually pretty slim.

Someone known and trusted by the child or the child’s family members, perpetrates 91 percent of child sexual abuse, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

Sadly, when children are sexually assaulted, molested, or sexually abused in the real world it is almost always by someone that they know. It is often someone in an authority position, such as a coach, teacher, “trusted family friend,” scout leader, or clergyman to name a few.

A 1996 Knox County case illustrates this example on multiple levels.

The perpetrator, Phillip Connley, was a preacher, the victim’s scout leader, and also mayor of Barbourville at the time he got indicted for sexual abuse and sodomy.

It was a delayed reporting case where the victim didn’t notify law enforcement until years after the incidents happened.

Connley pleaded guilty to two counts of sodomy in exchange for prosecutors recommending a five-year prison sentence and dropping the remainder of the charges.

Among cases of child sexual abuse reported to law enforcement, 93 percent of perpetrators are known to the victim. Only 7 percent are strangers, 59 percent are acquaintances, and 34 percent are family members, according to the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN). RAINN operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800) 656-HOPE in partnership with more than 1,000 local sexual assault service providers across the country.

For those that think it can’t or isn’t happening here and now, one need only to read the News Journal to find out about several other alleged incidents where either teachers, and/or coaches, or a school administrator were indicted just last month.

A Whitley County grand jury indicted a now former Whitley County High School teacher and middle school baseball coach on charges of first-degree sexual abuse of a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old. The teacher is accused of sending the girls pictures of his penis and of having the girls sending him sexually explicit content among other things.

A Laurel County grand jury indicted a now former South Laurel High School assistant girls basketball coach and South Laurel Middle School’s girls basketball coach for first-degree sexual abuse, prohibited use of electronic means to induce a minor to engage in sexual or other prohibited activities, first-degree unlawful transaction with a minor, use of a minor in a sexual performance and third-degree rape.

Based on the victim’s date of birth listed in the indictment, they were as young as 13 when the incidents first began.

A McCreary County grand jury indicted a now former McCreary Central High School assistant principal on charges of third-degree rape, unlawful transaction with a victim under age 16, solicitation to commit third-degree sodomy and first-degree official misconduct.

All three men have resigned from their positions in their respective school districts. It’s fair to point out that all of these men have pleaded not guilty to their charges and are considered innocent until proven guilty.

However, I bring up these cases to point out that these type of incidents are allegedly taking place right here in this area right now.

Yes, it is good to still warn children about stranger danger, but more importantly, we need to warn them about other dangers involving sexual predators that may come from people that they already know, and in many cases, thought that they could trust.

Also, if you think that child sexual abuse won’t affect someone that you know or care about, then you need to think again.

About 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 20 boys in the United States experience child sexual abuse. These numbers are more than likely much higher when you factor in that most children wait to report or never report child sexual abuse, according to the CDC website.

 

Tree trimming operations begin Monday (April 22) on I-75 in Whitley County

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) advises motorists that a right lane closure due to tree trimming operations will occur on I-75 southbound (mile points 15.0 – 9.0) in Whitley County on the following dates: Monday, April 22, Thursday, April 25, Monday, April 29, Thursday, May 2, Monday, May 6, and Thursday, May 9.

Hours of operation on the scheduled workdays are 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

KYTC asks motorists to be aware of the work zone, expect significant delays, and to utilize safe driving habits when traveling through the area.

The date, time, and duration of work may be adjusted if inclement weather or other unforeseen delays occur. Motorists can access travel and traffic conditions at http://goky.ky.gov or contribute their reports at www.waze.com or via the Waze mobile application. You can also get traffic information for District 11 counties at www.facebook.com/KYTCDistrict11 or by following them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/KYTCDistrict11.

 

William Darrell “Dipstick” Carter

William Darrell “Dipstick” Carter passed away peacefully on April 15, 2024, at his residence in Rockholds, KY, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on April 13, 1947, in Rockholds, KY, Darrell led a fulfilling life as a dedicated husband, father, grandfather and friend, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Darrell will be dearly missed by his devoted spouse ,Donna; adoring son, Brian (Danielle) Hill; and loving daughter, Vanessa (Dustin) Richardson. He will also be remembered fondly by his cherished grandchildren Madison Richardson, Bristol Hill, Eastyn Hill, Brandy Sharp, and Andrea Meadows. William leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication that will continue to live on through his family.
In addition to his immediate family, Darrell is survived by his caring sisters, Sherry Poore, Linda Hill, Brenda (Johnny) Ball, Rhonda Lyons; brothers, Les Carter, Ray (Wilma) Carter, Berry (Marty) Carter, and Marvin Carter; brothers-in-law, Earnest Hill, James Hill, Sidney Hill, and Ralph Hill; and sister-in-law, Barbara Logan.
A funeral service in honor of William’s life will be held at Croley Funeral Home on Sunday, April 21, at 2:00 pm with the Reverend Dillard Cupp and the Reverend Jody Wells officiating.
Visitation will be on Saturday, April 20, at 6:00 pm at the Croley Funeral Home chapel.
Darrell was preceded in death by his parents, Amos Carter and Edith Faulkner; along with brothers, Paul and Virgil Carter; and his sister, Sylvia Walters.
Darrell will forever be remembered for his kindness, strength, and unwavering love for his family. He touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in peace.
Croley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

 

David Clark Cloud

David Clark Cloud, age 71, of Williamsburg, KY, passed away on Sunday March 31, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 23, 1953, to the late Harvey Cloud and Guelda Mae Jump Cloud.
In addition to his parents, he was proceeded in death by two sisters, Kathy Cloud and Darlene Strunk, and one brother, James “Buzz” Cloud. He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Opal Cloud, three daughters, Donna (Sammy) Peace of Corbin, KY, Debbie Campbell of Williamsburg, KY and Jenny (Daniel) Rose of Williamsburg, KY. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, Malachi (Kayla) Hersey, Nathaniel (Kacie) Hersey, Lashae Campbell, Ethan Peace, Allison Peace, Nathan Carter, Whitney (Zach) Sharp, Rachel Campbell, Leann Campbell, Payton Rose and Kalup Rose, 4 great grandchildren, Aaliah, Kinsleigh, Cason and Olsen, one brother, Bobb Cloud from Louisville, KY, 6 sisters, Rita Lanham, Brenda Cloud, Bety (Charles) Petrey of Corbin, KY, Carolyn White Mason, Vivian (Walter) Rose and Judy Leach of Williamsburg, KY, 3 very special friends, Ronnie (Caroline) Petrey, Larry Ball ad Ray Lanham along with several nieces and nephews and host of other family and friends to mourn his passing.
To know David was a pleasure. He left a memory with anyone who encountered him. He never turned his back on anyone. His passion was time spent with his family and friends. He enjoyed the garden, cooking and just piddling around the house. His memories will linger with us, and he will remain in our hearts forever.

Croley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

 

Eleanor Monhollen

Eleanor Monhollen, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and wife, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2024, at the age of 88.
Born on March 30, 1936, Eleanor lived a life defined by love, warmth, and devotion to her family.
In 1954, Eleanor married the love of her life, George Monhollen, and together they built a life filled with cherished memories.
Eleanor was a pillar of strength and compassion, dedicating herself wholeheartedly to nurturing her family and creating a home filled with love and laughter.
Eleanor found joy in simple pleasures, particularly in the art of quilting. Her creations were not only beautiful works of art but also symbols of her love and care for those around her. She treasured spending time with her loved ones, especially on the front porch of her cabin, where stories were shared and bonds were strengthened.
Preceded in death by her beloved husband, George Monhollen, as well as her brothers, Wendell, Charles, Terry, and Verlon Wilson, and her parents Orena and Roscoe Wilson, Eleanor leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will be cherished by all who knew her.
She is survived by her devoted daughters, Fonda Barney, husband Jeff Barney, and Ronda Wallen and husband Keith Wallen, as well as her cherished grandchildren Jenna Fiegl and husband Tom Fiegl, Ryan Wallen, and Adam Barney and wife, Shenna Barney. Eleanor was also blessed with the joy of being a great-grandmother to Jack Fiegl. She is further survived by her loving sisters, Betty Carol McKee and Judy Durbin, and their husbands Scott McKee and Eddie Durbin, along with numerous nieces and nephews whom she adored.
Eleanor Monhollen will be remembered for her unwavering love, her kind spirit, and her ability to bring warmth and joy to all those around her. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
Visitation will be on Friday April 19, after 5:00 PM at the Croley Funeral Home Chapel in Williamsburg, Kentucky. Funeral service will be 1:00 PM at the Croley Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Michael Wilson and Rev. Anthony Reaves.
Burial will be at the Hamblin Cemetery following the funeral service.
Croley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

 

 

Ioma E. Smith

Ioma E. Smith, fondly known as Pete, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2024, in her home at the age of 73.
Pete was born on March 12, 1951, in Keith, West Virginia to her parents, Richard (Ken) and Geraldine (Deaner) Siler.
Pete was known for her kindness, generosity, and creating family traditions.
She touched the lives of many with her true friendship and love of others.
Her favorite role was beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and dear friend. She loved nothing more than spending time with her family and friends and creating lifelong memories. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who know her.
Pete is survived by her husband of 54 years, James A. Smith; her daughter, Sonya Cathey and husband Justin Cathey; her grandchildren, Carley Cathey and fiance Caden Marshall, Jacson Cathey, Lexy Smith, and Garrett Smith; along with nieces and their families.
Pete was preceded in death by her beloved son, Richard Smith; as well as her sister, Cora McKiddy; and her parents, Richard and Geraldine Siler.
Visitation will be on Saturday, April 20, starting at 9:00 AM with the funeral service immediately following the visitation beginning at 10:30 AM at the Croley Funeral Home Chapel in Williamsburg, Kentucky with Rev. Chuck Broyles and Rev. Larry Siler.
Burial will be at the Highland Park Croley Addition cemetery following the funeral service.
Croley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.