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Articles by Richard Anders
Prestonsburg Tourism talks community events and Sun Safe Prestonsburg initiative
The Prestonsburg Tourism Commission discussed upcoming community events, as well as a new “Sun Safe” initiative starting in Prestonsburg, in its Nov. 10 meeting. Commissioners discussed the dedication of Prestonsburg as a trail town for the state of Kentucky, along with the dedication ceremony scheduled to take place in Archer Park at noon on Nov. 18.
Middle Creek Volunteer FD receives grant for rescue boat trailer
Volunteers for the Middle Creek Fire Department gathered on Nov. 6 to accept a $2,900 check from the United Way of Kentucky Disaster Fund, presented by United Way of Eastern Kentucky to purchase a trailer for the FD’s rescue boat. Floyd Chronicle and Times photo by Richard Anders The Middle Creek Volunteer Fire Department received a $2,900 grant from United Way of Eastern Kentucky to procure a trailer for their rescue boat.
Martin officials discuss infrastructure projects
Martin City Council members met on Oct. 28 to discuss multiple infrastructure projects across the city. One of the current concerns for council members is working to construct a post office within the city, as the Martin post office has been closed since June of 2022. “Anytime we want to go to the post office, we have to drive all the way to Allen,” said Martin Mayor Samuel Howell.
MAC discusses insurance claim and student events
The MAC board of directors gathered on Oct. 20, discussing an in-progress insurance claim as well as several student-centered events held at the venue. According to MAC Executive Director Joe Campbell, water was released from a burst gasket on Sept.18 that caused damages to the venue’s card-scanning systems, ceiling tiles, a dimmer cabinet and several other pieces of technology before the water was shut off.
Copperhead Gun and Range recognized as Small Business of the Week
U.S. Sen. Rand Paul visited Copperhead Gun and Range in Prestonsburg on Oct. 30 to congratulate CEO Aaron Scott on being recognized as a Senate Small Business of the Week. Floyd Chronicle and Times photo by Richard Anders Copperhead Gun and Range in Prestonsburg was visited by U.S. Sen. Rand Paul on Oct. 30, as the range was presented with the Senate Small Business of the Week award. Copperhead CEO Aaron Scott said it was a tremendous honor to have his business recognized.
Floyd Student athletes recognized by BOE
Floyd County student athletes were honored at the Floyd County Board of Education’s Oct. 26 meeting. Floyd Chronicle and Times photo by Richard Anders The Floyd BOE met on Oct. 26 for its regular monthly meeting to highlight student athletes and their achievements. Bobby Akers, Floyd schools chief communications officer, announced May Valley Elementary as the boys’ middle school golf champions — with the top male golfer, Hunter Samons, also being a May Valley student. Akers recognized James D.
Prestonsburg Utilities reports no lead and new purchasing procedure
The Prestonsburg City Utilities Commission held its monthly meeting on Oct. 27, adopting a new purchasing procedure and discussing progress on lead detection efforts. The commission approved a motion to adopt the revised purchasing procedure under KRS 45A.385 — a statute which was changed on Jul. 15, 2026 to allow qualifying purchases of less than $50,000 to be made by local public agencies without going through a formal bidding process.
Hesterberg says he’s ready to work for the 95th House District
Republican Tanner Hesterberg will be the next Kentucky state representative for the 95th House District. He will be taking the place of Democrat Rep. Ashley Tackett Laferty, who has served since 2019. “We said it at the beginning of this campaign — that we wanted to put on display the same level of hard work that we plan to take to Frankfort to advocate on behalf of Pike and Floyd Counties,” said Hesterberg. Hesterberg took 58.68 percent of the vote over his opponent, former state Sen.
Williams wins Floyd County judge-executive race
Incumbent Floyd Judge-Executive Robbie Williams, an Independent, defeated his Republican opponent, Debbie “Doc” Hall by taking 50.73 percent of the vote over Hall’s 49.12 percent in the Nov. 3 general election. Williams has served as Judge-Executive since Jan. 2019. “I do want to thank my supporters. Not only have they come out to support me, but they have carried themselves so well,” said Williams.
Floyd schools with low assessment ratings discuss plans to rebound with BOE
The Floyd County Board of Education held special meetings on Oct. 26 and Oct. 29 to discuss the 2025-2026 Kentucky State Summative results with leadership from each school in the county. The results of last year’s KSA revealed a total of five grade bands currently sitting at an orange (low score) rating or below, representing five unique schools in the county. Those schools are Adams Middle, Allen Elementary, Betsy Layne Elementary, Prestonsburg Elementary and South Floyd Elementary.
Prestonsburg VFW decides not to renew alcohol license
Officials at VFW Post 5839 in Prestonsburg have decided not to renew their alcohol license for the foreseeable future. “We don’t do any alcohol, don’t sell it or allow it on the premises,” said post commander Dave Haley. “It’s just not something we need.” Post 5839 currently operates as a shelter, with a current capacity of 10 rooms, that works with veterans to aid them in seeking employment and other community outreach opportunities, according to Haley.
Hesterberg, Turner seeking 95th Dist. seat in the House
Two candidates are running to become the state representative for Kentucky’s 95th District in the Nov. 3 general election. Republican Tanner Hesterberg and Democrat Johnny Ray Turner, a former state senator, are seeking to replace Ashley Tackett Laferty, who has served in the seat since 2019 and is the last Democrat in the state legislature representing an area east of Lexington. The 95th District includes all of Floyd County and part of Pike County.
MAC celebrates 30th-year anniversary
The Mountain Arts Center celebrated 30 years of operation with its 30th anniversary show on Oct. 24. The sold-out show included performances from the Kentucky Opry Jr. Pros and several MAC alumni — along with commemorative video messages from special guests. Floyd Chronicle and Times photo by Richard Anders The Mountain Arts Center presented its 30th anniversary show to a sold-out crowd on Oct. 24. “It felt like a family reunion,” said MAC Executive Director Joe Campbell.
Prestonsburg Tourism celebrates positive growth
The Prestonsburg Tourism Commission held its monthly meeting on Oct. 13, discussing the success of recent events along with initiatives planned for the near future. Photo by Richard Anders The Prestonsburg Tourism Commission gathered for its monthly meeting on Oct 13 to discuss the Jenny Wiley Festival, updates from the community, future tourism initiatives and more. Commissioners spoke with Prestonsburg Mayor Rick Hughes about the large turnout for the 2026 Jenny Wiley Festival.
Chamber hears from Kentucky Power
The Floyd County Chamber of Commerce spoke with Dalton Hatfield, director of external affairs for Kentucky Power, about the company’s role in economic development at their monthly membership meeting on Oct. 14. Photo by Richard Anders The Floyd County Chamber of Commerce met for their monthly membership meeting to discuss Kentucky Power’s role in economic development on Oct. 14.
Floyd Schools to host several Halloween events
Several Floyd County schools are set to host their own Halloween events. The current list of planned events includes: Floyd Central High School will be hosting a Halloween concert at 7 p.m. on Oct. 15 and Oct. 16. Entry will be free, but donations will be welcome upon entry. Visitors are asked to enter the school’s auditorium.through Door H. • Floyd Central High School Band will be hosting a haunted house from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Oct. 23, Oct. 24, Oct. 30. and Oct. 31.
Allen City Commission discusses city projects and FEMA reimbursement
Infrastructure projects and FEMA reimbursements were among the items discussed by the Allen City Commission during its Oct. 5 meeting. The commission reviewed the proposed master plan for bicycle/pedestrian travel, which was initially launched during their Sept. 14 meeting. The plan introduced an array of potential infrastructure projects for the city, with some projects facilitating a combining of the City of Allen with New Allen, which some commissioners thought would not work exactly as planned.
MAC inducts 15 names during inaugural Hall of Fame ceremony
Founders of the Mountain Arts Center, as well as legends from the venue’s 30-year history, were honored at the inaugural MAC Hall of Fame induction ceremony on Sept. 29. Floyd Chronicle photo by Richard Anders The Mountain Arts Center inducted 15 individuals and groups at the venue’s inaugural MAC Hall of Fame ceremony on Sept. 29. Each inductee was presented with a granite plaque displaying their name and role within the MAC.
BOE leaves property tax rates unchanged, celebrates high attendance
The Floyd County Board of Education agreed to leave its property tax rate unchanged for the 2026-2027 fiscal year at a rate of 68.5 cents per $100 of assessed value at a Sept. 21 meeting. The board also gave final approval to lowering its 2026-2027 Motor Vehicle Tax rates to 54.9 cents per $100 of assessed value from 55 cents per $100 of assessed value.
Officials: Floyd County Animal Shelter far above capacity
The Floyd County Animal Shelter has announced an indefinite closure of animal intakes due to a lack of space at the shelter. Photo by Richard Anders The Floyd County Animal Shelter has announced an indefinite closure of animal intakes due to a lack of space for new animals to be accepted. Floyd County Animal Shelter Onsite Manager Allison Cobern said that every available square inch of their building is being used to store animals as safely as they can.
Medicaid listening tour continues in Prestonsburg
Four Kentucky Democratic legislators gathered at Big Sandy Community and Technical College’s Prestonsburg Campus on Sept. 17 to hear firsthand accounts of how Medicaid and access to its services have affected Kentuckians. Four legislators visited Prestonsburg on Sept. 17 to share information on how Medicaid eligibility and work requirements will soon change as part of a “Medicaid Reality Check” listening tour held across the state.
R/S-Godwin to expand Ivel facility
R/S-Godwin announced an upcoming expansion project for its Ivel location on Sept. 24. According to Floyd Judge-Executive Robbie Williams, the truck body manufacturing company recently procured 6.5 acres of nearby property for development. The $16.8 million investment is expected to result in a 110,000-square-foot facility being added to their existing operations in Ivel, Williams said.
Allen City Commission discusses future infrastructure plans
The Allen City Commission gathered on Sept. 14 to discuss infrastructure plans made for the city. Floyd Chronicle and Times photo by Richard Anders The Allen City Commission met on Sept. 14 to discuss potential infrastructure changes to the city, as well as other community updates and events. The commission received a proposed master plan for bicycle/pedestrian travel from Troy Hearn, who works with the public health department in Frankfort.
Medicaid listening tour continues in Prestonsburg
Four Kentucky Democratic legislators gathered at Big Sandy Community and Technical College’s Prestonsburg Campus on Sept. 17 to hear firsthand accounts of how Medicaid and access to its services have affected Kentuckians. Floyd Chronicle and Times photo by Richard Anders Four legislators visited Prestonsburg on Sept. 17 to share information on how Medicaid eligibility and work requirements will soon change as part of a “Medicaid Reality Check” listening tour held across the state.
Prestonsburg Tourism hears monthly updates
The Prestonsburg Tourism Commission discussed updates to its website as well as community events at its monthly committee meeting on Sept. 8. Executive Director Brooke LeMonds told the commission that changes are underway to the Prestonsburg Tourism website. She said she has been in contact with graphic design companies to have them redesign the website and have it include more up-to-date information.
Ky Sec. of State gives election details
Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams spoke with the Floyd County Chamber of Commerce about the current priorities of his office and discussed information about polling and funding opportunities in Kentucky as part of the chamber’s Sept. 9 meeting. Photo by Richard Anders Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams visited the Floyd County Chamber of Commerce’s Sept.
Newman sisters receive Josie Music Awards nominations
Hailey Newman and Brittney Newman of Hi Hat are both nominated artists for the 2026 Josie Music Awards hosted at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee. This is Brittney's first time receiving nominations for the awards ceremony, and Hailey said she is excited to bring her sister along to this year's awards as she makes her return to the city. "What's adding to the excitement is that I get to go with my sister this year," said Hailey.
MAC hosts Judge-Executive debate
The MAC hosted a debate forum between incumbent Floyd County Judge-Executive Robbie Williams and Republican Primary winner Debbie Hall on Sept. 8. The forum was moderated by Floyd County Chronicle and Times Publisher Jeff Vanderbeck. Photo by Richard Anders Incumbent Floyd County Judge-Executive Robbie Williams met with Republican nominee Debbie Hall during a public forum at the Mountain Arts Center on Sept. 8 to answer questions about their future actions as judge-executive if they are elected.
Beshear announces near-million-dollar investment in Prestonsburg
The City of Prestonsburg is slated to receive $976,000 in funding to help construct a bridge for cyclists and pedestrians, according to a recent statement from Gov. Andy Beshear. This new bridge will establish a safe connection between the Passage Rail Trail and Middle Creek National Battlefield, as well as the community of David. The city's funding comes as part of a larger $18.8 million investment, which will be used to fund 18 new transportation projects across the state, the statement said.
Prestonsburg’s Battle of Middle Creek events set to get underway Sept. 11
Reenactments and remembrance services will be held in Prestonsburg as part of Middle Creek National Battlefield's annual fall events, running from Sept. 11 to Sept. 13. The first day of events on Sept. 11 will include guided tours for regional schools, as well as a 9 p.m. remembrance ceremony to remember the events and victims of Sept. 11, 2001. The last two days of events will include reenactments, both starting at 2 p.m. On Sept. 12, the Battle of Ivy Mountain reenactment will be held.
Prestonsburg’s Battle of Middle Creek events set to get underway Sept. 11
Reenactments and remembrance services will be held in Prestonsburg as part of Middle Creek National Battlefield's annual fall events, running from Sept. 11 to Sept. 13. The first day of events on Sept. 11 will include guided tours for regional schools, as well as a 9 p.m. remembrance ceremony to remember the events and victims of Sept. 11, 2001. The last two days of events will include reenactments, both starting at 2 p.m. On Sept. 12, the Battle of Ivy Mountain reenactment will be held.
Prestonsburg’s Battle of Middle Creek events set to get underway Sept. 11
Reenactments and remembrance services will be held in Prestonsburg as part of Middle Creek National Battlefield's annual fall events, running from Sept. 11 to Sept. 13. The first day of events on Sept. 11 will include guided tours for regional schools, as well as a 9 p.m. remembrance ceremony to remember the events and victims of Sept. 11, 2001. The last two days of events will include reenactments, both starting at 2 p.m. On Sept. 12, the Battle of Ivy Mountain reenactment will be held.
Beshear announces near-million-dollar investment in Prestonsburg
The City of Prestonsburg is slated to receive $976,000 in funding to help construct a bridge for cyclists and pedestrians, according to a Sept. 3 statement from Gov. Andy Beshear. This new bridge will establish a safe connection between the Passage Rail Trail and Middle Creek National Battlefield, as well as the community of David. The city's funding comes as part of a larger $18.8 million investment, which will be used to fund 18 new transportation projects across the state, the statement said.
MAC receives $30,000 for commercial kitchen project
A donation of $30,000 was made by the Highlands Foundation to the Mountain Arts Center for the MAC’s commercial kitchen project on Aug. 31. Submitted Photo The Mountain Arts Center has received a $30,000 donation from the Highlands Foundation to begin construction on a commercial kitchen. "In the past, we've worked with catering companies in the area," said MAC Executive Director Joe Campbell.
Battle of Middle Creek events set to get underway Sept. 11
Reenactments and remembrance services will be held as part of Middle Creek National Battlefield's annual fall events, running from Sept. 11 to Sept. 13. The first day of events on Sept. 11 will include guided tours for regional schools, as well as a 9 p.m. remembrance ceremony to remember the events and victims of Sept. 11, 2001. The last two days of events will include reenactments, both starting at 2 p.m. On Sept. 12, the Battle of Ivy Mountain reenactment will be held.
Floyd BOE proposes keeping property tax the same, slightly lowering vehicle tax
The Floyd County Board of Education began the process of setting its tax rates for this year during a meeting on Sept. 3, proposing to keep the property tax rate the same and slightly lower the motor vehicle tax. During a special meeting, the board unanimously approved a measure to propose the property tax remain at 68.5 cents per $100 of assessed value and the motor vehicle tax rate be reduced from 55 cents per $100 of assessed value to 54.9 cents per $100 of assessed value.
Prestonsburg archery champions recognized
Prestonsburg High School archers were presented with state championship rings at the Aug. 26 meeting of the Floyd County Board of Education. Submitted Photo The 2025-2026 Prestonsburg High School Archery team was recognized for their win as champions of the 2026 Kentucky All “A” Classic state tournament during the Floyd County Board of Education’s regularly scheduled Aug. 26 meeting.
Veterans receive a helping hand
A total of 56 groups and individuals offered goods and services to veterans residing in the Big Sandy area at the Prestonsburg VA Clinic's homeless veterans stand down on Aug. 27. Floyd Chronicle and Times photo by Richard Anders A total of 39 veterans were offered assistance at the Prestonsburg VA Clinic's homeless veterans stand down on Aug. 27. Stand downs offer services from the VA and community partners to veterans who are homeless, formerly homeless or at risk of homelessness.
MAC plans for the near future
Updates on cleaning expenses, rental rates, Kentucky Opry Jr. Pros performances and a number of repairs were among the topics discussed at the Mountain Arts Center’s board of directors meeting on Aug. 18. The MAC is looking to agree on new terms for a yearly cleaning package, as they receive this year’s bid offers from cleaning companies. So far, one bid has been submitted and reviewed by the board, said MAC Executive Director Joe Campbell.
Progress reports at Floyd Fiscal Court
Progress on Thunder Ridge and a lack of flood damage within the county were among the topics discussed at the Floyd County Fiscal Court regular meeting on Aug. 19. Photo by Richard Anders Representatives from East Kentucky Power Cooperative made an appearance at the Floyd County Fiscal Court’s Aug. 19 meeting to speak about their work with the county to get Thunder Ridge, a 50-acre industrial park project, ready for operation for any willing businesses.
Floyd County upcoming events set in motion
The Floyd County Tourism Committee held their monthly commission meeting on Aug. 11 to review upcoming changes and events happening within the county and beyond. Floyd Chronicle and Times photo by Richard Anders The Prestonsburg Tourism Commission discussed the logistics of several upcoming events in Floyd County during its Aug. 11 meeting. This marks the second meeting attended by new Tourism Executive Director Brooke LeMonds.
Chamber dicsusses Jenny Wiley updates
The Floyd County Chamber of Commerce held their monthly membership meeting on Aug. 12, with guest speaker Taylor Iery giving updates on the progress of Jenny Wiley State Resort Park’s construction projects. Photo by Richard Anders The Floyd County Chamber of Commerce discussed expected deadlines for renovation projects at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park during its monthly members’ meeting on Aug. 12.
Floyd officials: Aug. 13 storms in Floyd County caused limited damage
Southwest Floyd County was struck by thunderstorms on the night of Aug. 13, with flooding and road closures primarily occurring in Wayland, Garrett and the Right Beaver region. However, according to Floyd County Judge-Executive Robbie Williams, there is little to no lasting damage left behind by the heavy rain. “The water started draining last night,” said Williams.
FCSO: Wanted sex offender arrested after brief vehicle and foot pursuit
Floyd County Sheriff's deputies said a man wanted for violating the provisions of the Kentucky Sex Offender Registry was arrested in Floyd County after fleeing from them and nearly hitting two pedestrians in the process. According to court documents, the sheriff's office was made aware that Johnny Ray McQueen, 63, whose address was listed in court documents as Depot Hollow Road, Auxier, was wanted by Kentucky State Police Post 7 for allegedly failing to comply with the registry.
10 Ingenious Tech Experiments That Think Outside the Box
Innovation in technology often means thinking outside the box. This list highlights some of the most ingenious tech experiments that push boundaries and showcase human creativity. These projects aren’t just theoretical; they have real-world applications, making a big impact across various industries. From energy efficiency to data storage, these innovations show how inventive thinking can lead to major advancements.
All-natural art contest
The Rowan County Arts Center is once again hosting their community art contest. This contest’s third installment will be held on the second floor of the Arts Center during their upcoming Maker’s Market on May 4. The deadline for submissions is Friday, April 26 at 5 p.m. “The thing we love most is giving people the chance to create and display their art,” said Ashley Gilliam, director of the Rowan County Arts Center.
Huey Magoo's comes to Morehead
A new chicken restaurant has opened in Morehead. Huey Magoo’s, a fast-casual chicken restaurant, opened their 61 location in Morehead. Making it the second busiest opening in Huey Magoo’s history. “The reception was way beyond anything I had hoped or dreamed of,” said owner of the Morehead Huey Magoo’s location and Morehead State University alumnus Tracy Stephens.
Out with the old, in with the new
Books were flying off the shelves at the Camden-Carroll library’s first ever book sale. Over 10,000 books were selected from the library's catalogue to be put on sale Friday. Every hardback book was sold for $1, and every paperback book was sold for 50 cents. “We had a lot of material we needed to move, so we wanted to make them affordable to help find a new home,” said Rodney Watkins, interim dean of library services.
Mid-semester music fills the air
The spring semester may be winding down, but the Kentucky Center for Traditional Music is amping up. Each semester, the KCTM hosts concerts to mark the halfway point of the semester while giving its students the spotlight to show off music they've been preparing for the past few months. This year's mid-semester concert took place Wednesday evening. "It’s an absolute thrill to teach traditional music to this next generation," said Ruth McClain Smith, a long-standing instructor for the KCTM.
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Skylar Shutz (Left) and Anabel Peterman (Right) perform with the MSU Country Band at the Kentucky Center for Traditional Music’s Mid-semester Concert at the Rowan County Arts Center on March 27, 2024. Photo by Richard Anders | The Trail Blazer
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