Beauty can be dangerous

Photos by Greg Barker show the early stages of the ice storm near Ewing. The eerie beauty of the ice is deceptive.

State of Emergency Declared

According to the Ledger-Independent, a State of Emergency has been officially declared in Fleming County and while government agencies are using all of their resources to alleviate issues caused by the recent battery of snow and ice, officials there are urging residents to be extremely cautious until the weather breaks.
At a special meeting of Fleming County Fiscal Court Friday, county officials discussed a variety of challenges presented by the winter storms including power outages and extremely hazardous road conditions.
On Tuesday, Fleming County declared a Level 3 State of Emergency, the highest designation there is, according to Judge-Executive Larry Foxworthy. Typically during a Level 3 situation, only emergency traffic would be permitted on roadways, Foxworthy said.
"We have eased up on the restrictions so people can get to work," Foxworthy said.
Even so, Foxworthy and Sheriff Scott Royce strongly encouraged county residents to stay off the roads if at all possible.
"We are asking people to use extra caution and stay home unless they absolutely have to go out," said Royce after the meeting. "Most of the back roads are still in horrible shape, and some of the main roads still have ice."

There are currently three emergency shelter areas open in Fleming County -- one at the Flemingsburg Christian Church near the Dairy Queen, one at the Fleming County Ambulance Services building and one at the Fleming County Health Department. Anyone in need of shelter is urged to call Dwayne Price at 606-845-1419 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. For shelter assistance after business hours, call Fleming county Dispatch at 606-845-2121.

Send us your story

Good or bad, beautiful or ugly, tell us your experiences during the ice storm. E-mail gazette@fleminggazette.com. Share your experiences with the rest of us.

We need storm pictures

Send us your pictures of the ice storm, the work being done, damage, of just fun shots. Our e-mail is gazette@fleminggazette.com. We'll publish some of them here, some in the newspaper. DO NOT IMBED the photos in a Word document.  Use the "Attachment" function.

Mr. White

John Mathew White, 42, passed away Wednesday at his residence.
He was born in Fleming County June 1, 1966, to Lucy Dotson White of Flemingsburg and the late Donald White.
He is survived by his wife, Sherry Silvey White; three sons, Cody White, Shelton White and Zachory Williamson, all of Flemingsburg; one sister, Cathy (Jerry) Blankenship of Williamstown; four brothers, Randy (Rhonda) White of Maysville, Donald Ray (Candis) White, Danny White and David White, all of Flemingsburg; and his maternal grandmother, Ida Dotson of Mount Olivet.
Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. There will be no visitation.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the family.

Power restored to many homes

Much of the power has been restored to Fleming County households (including ours, at 9:30p.m.!!) and crews are still working through the night. We thank the workers from Fleming-Mason Energy and those from other states who are helping them.

Mrs. Pettit

Mrs. Ermal May Pettit, 88, of Flemingsburg loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother went to be with her Lord, Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2009, at the Fleming County Hospital in Flemingsburg.
She was born in Fleming County, Aug. 28, 1920, to the late Jim Jamison and America Jane Jamison. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hubert Jefferson Pettit.
Affectionally known as Mamaw, she was a homemaker and a member of the New Life Church of Christ in Flemingsburg.
She is survived by her son, Elvis (Ricki) Pettit of Fleming County; a daughter, Freda (Bill) Mineer of Flemingsburg; six beautiful grandchildren, Tina (Kevin) Wells, Darrin Pettit, Gina (Mike) Leet, Kristie (James) Kersey, Jennifer (Mike) Rowe and Michael (Joyce) Mineer; four beautiful great-grandchildren, Alyssa Catching, Madyson and Hayden Leet and Madelyn Wells; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by two sisters, Lorena (Raymond) Thompson and Audrey (Virgil) Snedegar; and one brother, W.C. (Christola) Jamison.
Services 2 p.m., Monday, Feb. 2, 2009, at the New Life Church of Christ, Flemingsburg. Pastors Darren Fizer and Hillary Underwood will officiate. Burial will follow in the Fairview Cemetery in Grange City.

Visitation at 5 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 1, 2009, at the New Life Church of Christ in Flemingsburg.

Mr. McCray

Floyd McCray, 66, of Flemingsburg died Friday, Jan.23, 2009, at the Meadowview Regional Medical Center in Maysville. He was born June 9, 1942, in Perry County to the late Curtis McCray and Mamie Helton McCray.
He is survived by his wife, Frances McGovney McCray of Flemingsburg; two sons, Floyd C.(Melissa) McCray of Flemingsburg and Daniel Musgrove of Flemingsburg; a daughter, Patty (Junior) Muse of Flemingsburg; eight grandchildren; four brothers, J.C. (Sharon) McCray, Paul McCray, Carl (Diane) McCray, Lonnie (Connie) McCray; and two sisters, Mary Lou (George) Davis and Carol (Richard) Lewis.
He was preceded in death by four brothers, Herbert McCray, Herschel McCray, Frank McCray and Tommy McCray.
Memorial services were held Monday, Jan. 26, 2009, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses in Maysville. Elder James Sutton officiated. Mr. McCray's body was donated to the University of Kentucky Medical Center for scientific purposes.

Mrs. Kissick

Mrs. Anna Louise Kissick, 60, of Flemingsburg went to be with the Lord on Monday, Jan. 26, 2009, after a 10 year battle with cancer.
She was born in Fleming County on Aug. 4, 1948, to the late Harlan and Lillian Ruth Moore Miller.
Anna Louise was a devoted mother to her two daughters, Cindy Lou (Bill) Jolly and Sherry Ann Kissick, both of Flemingsburg. Known as Nannie to her two grandsons, Ross and Andrew Jolly, who gave her the strength and inspiration to fight her cancer year after year. She had deep faith in God and believed in all the miracles He blessed her with each day.
Survivors include her brother, Sammy (Vicki) Miller of Flemingsburg; one nephew, Robbie (Missy) Miller; one niece, Tara Watson; and many cousins and friends who were like brothers and sisters to her. She had a devoted terrier, Annie, who stayed by her side night and day.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Ricky Lee Miller; and a sister, Nancy Blanche Miller.
Services will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2009, at 11 a.m. at the Denton - Workman Funeral Home in Flemingsburg. She will be laid to rest at the Fairview Cemetery at Grange City.

Visitation for Anna will be at the funeral home on Monday, Feb. 2, from 6-9 p.m.

Tea Canceled

The Winter Blues Tea scheduled for the Upstairs Tea Room Saturday, Jan. 31, has been canceled.

FCCA meeting canceled

The meeting set for today of the FC Council for the Arts has been canceled.

Site meeting rescheduled at FCHS

The FCHS SBDM meeting scheduled

for today is postponed until

 Friday, January 30, at 4 p.m.

Power outages still widespread

Over 500 households are still without electricity in Fleming County as Fleming-Mason Energy crews work around the clock, hampered by the bitter cold that is preventing the ice from melting. Two crews from North Carolina have arrived to help with the effort, which includes 1,000 homes in Mason County without power.

Side roads are treacherous, adding to the problems, and the highway update is below.

Yesterday’s ice, rain, and then more snow compounded a bad situation, and power line crews were hampered by new problems caused by the continuing bad weather. Mary Beth Nance of Fleming-Mason said the crews hope to put a dent in the big job today. Another update will be issued later.

Highway crews continue to treat roadways in northeast Kentucky

Tree damage still has some roads closed

FLEMINGSBURG, Ky. – Transportation Cabinet crews in Department of Highways District 9 continue to treat priority B and C routes this morning in the wake of a severe winter storm that began Sunday.

Except for main routes such as Interstate 64, US 60, US 23, KY 7, KY 32, KY 11 and the AA Highway – known as priority A routes – roadways remain “partly covered” to “mostly covered” with snow and ice.

Several roadways in Boyd, Greenup and neighboring counties remain closed to through traffic because of downed power lines and, in some cases, fallen trees. Those include:

In Boyd County – KY 854, KY 966 (Trace Road), KY 773 (Bull Fork), KY 1945 (Jacks Fork), KY 757 (Whites Creek), and KY 752.

In Greenup County – KY 827 (Cole Branch); KY 1459 (Low Gap) should reopen later this morning; and KY 784 is likely impassable to most vehicles.

Motorists should still drive with caution, watch for highway crews on roadways and please note that:

• In many counties, such as Carter, Elliott, Lewis, Rowan and others, crews continue to cut fallen trees that are not blocking the entire roadway. Debris could also be near roadway travel lanes in many counties.

• Secondary routes may remain slick and hazardous. And, routes where power lines are down may not be completely treated yet.

• Power outages also shut down traffic signals. Where possible, portable stop signs may be erected. Signals may also revert to “flash mode” when power returns. Intersections with traffic lights out should be treated as four-way stops. If lights are flashing yellow, proceed with caution. If lights flashing red, stop until there’s a gap in traffic.

• Ice may still occur on roadways, especially in areas of snow melt or flooding.

Condition reports on major roadways are available by calling 511 or online at http://511.ky.gov, and are described as follows:

• Wet pavement – Ice could form as temperatures drop.
• Partly covered – Markings may be obscured by snow, slush or ice.
• Mostly covered by snow, slush or ice.
• Completely covered by snow, slush or ice.
• Impassable – Conditions unsuitable for all but emergency travel.

Ice does damage

Trees fell across the county as the ice storm swept through.

About 800 households are without electricity after an ice storm swept through last night followed by heavy rains and more snow is expected during the afternoon and evening.

According to Mary Beth Nance of Fleming-Mason Energy, “All hands are on deck” as Fleming-Mason crews work to restore power. Additional crews have been requested.

Fleming County was hit worse than the others, followed by Mason and Lewis, according to Vance.

Highway crews continue to battle ice, falling trees

Dozens of roads in northeast counties blocked

Transportation Cabinet crews in northeast Kentucky are battling not only snow and ice on roadways, but also falling trees that are hampering treatment efforts.

At this time, only major routes in Bath, Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Fleming, Greenup, Lewis, Mason, Nicholas and Rowan counties should be considered passable. Those include Interstate 64, US 23, US 60, the AA Highway, KY 8, KY 32, KY 11 and others.

Department of Highways District 9 crews will continue to respond to the dozens of downed tree reports being received in each county throughout the day, and will continue to plow and treat roadways. In addition, crews are prepping for another round of snow that’s forecast for today.

Motorists are advised that roadways are slick and hazardous, and could be blocked at any time.

As of 6 a.m., primary routes were slushy in all counties, with road conditions reported as “wet pavement.” Other routes ranged from "partly covered" to "mostly covered" with snow and ice.

Rev. Smith

Rev. Woodrow Smith, 86, passed away Monday evening at the Fleming County Hospital. Rev. Smith was a minister and a farmer. He was born in Morgan County May 26, 1922. His parents were the late Ramey and Rebecca Rosenberry Smith. Rev. Smith’s wife, Gladys Hay Smith, passed away August 16, 2003.

Survivors include a daughter, Linda (Russie) Dunaway, a grandson, Dr. Michael (Lori) Dunaway, and greatgrandsons Jonathan Michael Dunaway and Charles Nicholas Dunaway, all of Flemingsburg.

He was preceded in death by brothers and sisters Ovie Smith, Autie Smith, Ocal Smith, Essie Daulton, and Ottie Wright.

Funeral services are 1 p.m. Friday at the Wallingford Community Church with Rev. Cecil Ison and Rev. Ray Ripato officiating.

Burial in Newman Cemetery.

Visitation is at Boone-Nickell Funeral Home after 6 p.m. Thursday.

Snow on the ragtop

About six inches of icy snow drifted on and around the Mazda Miata, which won't be going anywhere until warmer weather comes to Kentucky.

Mr. Helphenstine

Charles Garr Helphenstine, 80, of Dayton, Ohio, passed away Sunday evening. Mr. Helphenstine was employed at Litton Ford Sales for over 20 years. He was born in Fleming County on February 4, 1928, to the late Harry and Iola Doyle Helphenstine.
He is survived by two sons, Gerald (Marietta) Helphenstine, Dayton, and Rick (Elizabeth) Helphenstine, Flemingsburg; three sisters, Betty Bumgardner, Miamisburg, Ohio, Lorette Darlington, Mt. Orab, Ohio, and Wanda Martin, Hobe Sound, Fla.; and four grandchildren, Aaron Helphenstine, Gera Thurman, Joshua Helphenstine, and Tommy Gallagher. He is also survived by five great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by two infant children, Charles Allen and Charlene Helphenstine and by two sisters, Rev. Opal Helphenstine and Helen Newdigate and by three brothers, Leo Helphenstine, Jesse D. Helphenstine, and Thomas Helphenstine.
Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Thursday in the Boone-Nickell Funeral Home. Burial in Elizaville Cemetery.
Visitation at Boone-Nickell after 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Slick highways

Department of Highways District 9 update as of 6 a.m...

Storm began as rain/sleet mix across northeast Kentucky about 12:30 to 1 a.m. this morning. All county crews and contractors have been out with snow plows and salt trucks overnight, and expect to remain out through the day.

Roads are partly- to mostly-covered with snow and icy slush mix, and are considered slick and hazardous. Crews continue to plow and treat priority routes. Conditions range from mostly snow in northern counties - Mason, Fleming, Greenup, Lewis and Boyd (Boyd County reported 3-4 inches of snow, and still snowing) - to a mix of sleet on top of 2-3 inches of snow in more southern counties of the district - Elliott, Rowan, Bath, etc.

Specifically, Interstate 64 has been treated but is again mostly-covered in Bath, Rowan, Carter and Boyd counties. Crews are continuing to plow and salt the roadway, but it is considered slick and hazardous.

No closures or significant roadway hazards have been reported to the highway department at this time.

Highway department on alert for winter weather operations

 

Crews standing by in all District Nine counties

FLEMINGSBURG, Ky. – Snow plow drivers and contractors are standing by as a developing winter storm threatens to blanket northeast Kentucky with snow and sleet.

The Kentucky Department of Highways District 9 plans to station crews in each county – Bath, Boyd, Carter, Fleming, Greenup, Lewis, Mason, Nicholas and Rowan – by midnight, so they’re ready to go when snow hits the roadways.

“We are keeping a close eye on what could be a significant event,” said Transportation Secretary Joe Prather. “We will focus every possible resource on keeping roadways as clear as possible. We ask that motorists stay alert to changing weather and road conditions, make travel decisions accordingly and exercise great caution around snow plows and other heavy road-clearing equipment.”

National Weather Service forecasts call for 3 to 7 inches of snow and sleet across much of the region through Tuesday.

Wintry weather could make driving conditions hazardous. Motorists are reminded to drive with caution as bridges and overpasses can freeze before roadways, to please share the road with KYTC equipment, and to always buckle up and Drive Smart.

Winter Driving Tips

Drive carefully. Allow plenty of time to get to your destination. Do not use cruise control. Remember that bridges, overpasses and exit and entrance ramps can be icy when other areas are not.

Leave a “space cushion.” Leave enough room between you and the car in front of you

because stopping in snow may require up to four times your normal stopping distance.

Be seen. Dull, cloudy days will cut down on visibility so drive using low-beam headlights.

Steer into the skid. Stay calm and ease your foot off the gas while carefully steering in the direction you want the front of your vehicle to go.

Highway crews in District Nine are responsible for treating more than 2,000 miles of roadways with snow plows in every county, more than 100 operators, nearly 20,000 tons of salt, and tens of thousands of gallons of salt brine and liquid calcium.

For more information, including snow and ice treatment maps, forecast links and driving tips, please visit District 9's web site at http://www.transportation.ky.gov/d9/snow.htm.

Snow, snow, snow

Transportation crews treating roadways in northeast Kentucky

Motorists should use caution while traveling

FLEMINGSBURG, Ky. — Transportation Cabinet crews throughout northeast Kentucky are treating roadways this morning as snow continues to fall across much of the region.

As of 4:30 a.m., trucks were out plowing roadways and spreading salt in Bath, Boyd, Carter, Fleming, Greenup, Lewis, Mason, Nicholas and Rowan counties in Department of Highways District 9 where up to an inch of snow has partly covered roadways, making them slick. Crews in Elliott County were spot treating roadways.

Crews expect to remain out today, monitoring and treating roadways as necessary. National Weather Service forecasts call for scattered snow showers this morning, and a winter storm warning tonight through Tuesday with 2- to 4-inches of snow and sleet possible.

Wintry weather could make driving conditions hazardous. Motorists should watch for slick spots on roadways, and remain aware that bridges and overpasses can freeze before roadways.

For more information, including snow and ice treatment maps, please visit District 9's web site at http://www.transportation.ky.gov/d9/snow.htm.

Statewide, the latest road and weather conditions are available online at 511.ky.gov or by dialing 511.

Lady Panthers beat Boyle

1/24/2009

Fleming Co. 61

Boyle Co. 59

Boyle Co.
17
10
9
23
59

Fleming Co.
4
18
16
23
61

Boyle Co. (13-4) -- Hellyer 20, Neal 14, Ross 4, Hall 10, McGirr 8, Gill 3.

Fleming Co. (8-8) -- Harmon 1, Emmons 9, S. Boyd 4, Allex 26, M. Boyd 11, Burns 8, Puente 2.

Lady Panthers whip Morgan County

1/23/2009

Fleming Co. 61

Morgan Co. 22

Morgan Co.
6
6
6
4
22

Fleming Co.
14
13
18
16
61

Morgan Co. (8-9) -- McCowan 5, Williams 2, Slone 2, Eagle 5, Stamper 2, Harmon 2, Lindon 3, Hillman 1.

Fleming Co. (7-8) -- Emmons 31, S.Boyd 5, Allex 7, Burns 4, McKee 5, Jackson 2, Puente 5, Hearst 2.

Morgan beats Fleming

Morgan Co. 59
Fleming Co. 43

Morgan Co.
9
18
14
18
59

Fleming Co.
11
15
16
1
43

Morgan Co. (8-6) -- Fyffe 14, Roy 15, Dunn 10, Adkins 8, Nickell 8, Jones 3, Smith 2.

Fleming Co. (8-11) -- Clark 11, Gray 8, Fraser 8, Jolly 8, Newsom 5, Dugan 3.

Mr. Pollitt

Donnie Pollitt, 64, of the Ewing Road in Fleming County, died Thursday, Jan. 22, 2009, at his residence. He was born July 12, 1944, in Fleming County to Anna Matt Pollitt of Mount Carmel and the late Howard Pollitt.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Wilma Clayville Pollitt.
Mr. Pollitt was a state government retiree, a former Ewing City Commissioner, a Fleming County Gideon, past Master of Favorite Lodge F&AM 581 and a deacon of Unity Baptist Church.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by two daughters, Tracy (Lennie) Eubanks of Flemingsburg and Jennifer (Eric) Walton of Winchester; two sisters, Elizabeth Ann (Hubert) Six of Port Saint Joes, Fla. and Linda (Butch) Tackett of Lexington; one brother, Caleb Pollitt of Memphis, Tenn.; four grandchildren, Tyler Eric Walton, Tanner Jacob Walton, Emory Clay Eubanks and Eldon Cain Eubanks.
Two brothers, Billy Pollitt and Jimmy Pollitt; and one grandchild preceded him in death.
Services will by at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 25, 2009 at the Unity Baptist Church in Flemingsburg. Bros. Charles Walton, Ron Taulbee and Earl Clay Sanders will officiate.

Burial will follow in the Fleming County Cemetery with Air Force Veteran Military Rites conducted by local American Legion and VFW.
Visitation after 6 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 24, 2009 at the Denton - Workman Funeral Home and one hour prior to the funeral service at the church on Sunday. Masonic Rites will be held at 7 p.m., Saturday evening at the funeral home.

Mr. Watson

Major Watson, 94, of Lexington Country Place, died Thursday, Jan. 22, 2009, in Lexington. He was born Oct. 2, 1914, in Elliott County to the late James Franklin Watson and Susan Frances Watson.
He is survived by his wife, Gladys Louis Phillips Watson of Lexington. Major Watson was a self-employed contractor. He is also survived by one daughter, Carolyn Watson of Lexington; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Morton Watson.
Services will be at 1 p.m., Monday, Jan. 26, 2009 at the Denton-Workman Funeral Home in Flemingsburg. Rev. Richard Short will officiate.
Burial will follow in the Fleming County Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Mr. Wheeler

Amos Wheeler, 66, of Goddard died Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009, at St. Joseph East in Lexington.
He was born May 15, 1942 in Johnson County to the late Jessie and Sylvia Taylor Wheeler. He was a retired roll operator for Randall-Textron Company.
He is survived by his wife, Imogene Littleton Wheeler; two sons, Amos Wayne (Karen) Wheeler of Ewing and Brian (Missy) Wheeler of Flemingsburg; a daughter, Linda Jane Justice (Roman Pecina) of Flemingsburg; four brothers, Jay Wheeler and Rufus Wheeler of Flemingsburg, Troy Wheeler of Johnson County and Ernest Taylor of Johnson County; four sisters, Mary Dailey and Princena Tackett of Fleming County and Lilly Clouse and Phyliss Ward of Johnson County; and three grandchildren, Blake and Brady Wheeler and Isaac Pecina.
Services at 1 p.m., Friday, at the Boone - Nickell Funeral Home in Flemingsburg. Burial in the Goddard Cemetery.
Visitation at 6 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home.

Mrs. Honan

Rhonda Burke Honan, 44, of Maysville passed away Sunday at Fleming County Hospital.  She was a longtime & active member of the Lewisburg Baptist Church.       

Rhonda was born in Mason County on June 1, 1964 daughter of Johnny Burke of Ewing and Donna Linville Molden of Lexington. 
She was a graduate of Mason County High School and attended Eastern Kentucky University. She was awarded the title of Miss Ewing-Fleming County Fair in the early eighties.
Survivors other than her parents are her husband, Eddie Honan.  2 daughters, Whitney (Nick) Rosenbaum and Shelby Honan both of Maysville and a son Ryan Honan of Maysville.  1 granddaughter, Izabella Rosenbaum and a half brother, Jeff Bradshaw of Louisville.  She was preceded in death by her grandparents including Elwood & Fannie Linville.
Services will be conducted at 1 P.M. Thursday at Palmer Funeral Home in May’s Lick with Rev. Tim Billups officiating.
Interment will follow in the May’s Lick Cemetery.  Pallbearers will be Kelly Faulkner, Larry Manning, Lee Sanders, Brandon Sanders, Roy Doyle, Greg Barbour, Rick Bevins and Duggie Adamson. 
Visitation 5-8 P.M. Wednesday at the funeral home.  Condolences to www.palmerfuneralhome.net

Memorials suggested to Cancer Club, P.O. Box 89 Flemingsburg, KY  41041

Panthers 50, Russell 48

Fleming Co. 50
Russell 48

Russell
14
5
11
18
48

Fleming Co.
18
10
12
10
50

Russell (2-10) -- Stapleton 17, Skaggs 13, Taylor 8, Ross 5, Boyd 3, Whittaker 2.

Fleming Co. (8-9) -- Gray 20, Jolly 11, Newsom 5, Dugan 4, Kinder 4, Clark 3, Fraser 3.

Mr. Wagner

Elza Lee Wagner, 87, of Wallingford Road, died Friday, Jan. 16, 2009, in Flemingsburg.
Mr. Wagner was born in Lewis County on Sept. 24 1921, to late Otha and Elizabeth (Bessie) Wagner.
He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Marcella K. Wagner; his sisters, Martha Bloomfield, Edith Hedges and Verna Doyle.
He was a farmer. Mr. Wagner served in World War II Army Air Corp as a staff sergeant.
Mr. Wagner is survived by his wife, Iona Wagner; his sons, John (Libby) Wagner of Flemingsburg, Mike (Jeri) Wagner of Fleming County, and Mark (Charlotte) Wagner of Fleming County; his daughter, Pam (John) Adams of Brown County; his sister, Frances Carpenter of Fleming County; grandchildren, Angela Paver, Melissa Redmond, Misty Conn, Tiffany Wagner, Macy Wagner, Ian Adams; and great-grand children.
Services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009, at Wallingford United Methodist Church. Pastor Bob Ray and Pastor Frank Cannon will officiate.

Internment will follow at Longview Cemetery in Bethel, Ky., with military rites performed by the VFW and American Legion.
Visitation will be Monday, Jan. 19, 2009 from 5-8 p.m. at Denton-Workman Funeral Home as well as one hour at the church, 10-11 a.m., Tuesday prior to the services.

Mr. Ruggles

Frankie Ruggles, 54, of Flemingsburg, died Friday, Jan. 16, 2009, at the Fleming County Hospital.
Mr. Ruggles was born in Rowan County on April 3, 1954, to the late Johnny D. and Rose Marie Ross Ruggles.
He was a member of the Mount Pisgah Baptist Church, Fairview.
He is survived by seven sisters, Ida Mae Ruggles of Flemingsburg, Ethel Ann Ruggles of Aberdeen, Ohio, Mary Frances (Jimmy) Emmons of Hillsboro, Betty Jean Davis of Fleming County, Pauline Willis of Ewing, Linda (Larry) Herrington of Ewing and Florence (Steve) Hickerson of Flemingsburg; a nephew, Jonathan Herrington of Nicholasville; and two nieces, Rose Ann Ballard of Hazard and Alicia Herrington of Ewing.
He was preceded in death by a son, Clinton Ruggles.
Services are 1 p.m., Monday, Jan. 19, 2009, at the Boone - Nickell Funeral Home in Flemingsburg. Pastor Todd Wiley will officiate.

Burial will follow in the Fleming County Cemetery.
Visitation at the funeral home is after 5 p.m., on Sunday.

Mrs. Ross

Mrs. Diane Marie Bugis Ross, 57, died Jan. 15, 2009 at the Fleming County Hospital.
She was born April 23, 1951, in Pontiac, Mich., to Anthony John and Helen Jozwick Bugis.
Diane was a 1969 graduate of Hartland High School, in Hartland, Mich. She went on to graduate from Western Michigan University and Vanderbilt University where she received her masters degree. She loved her job as a speech pathologist working for Comprehend, Inc. and the Fleming County School System. Diane also was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Flemingsburg where she played the organ for 13 years. She enjoyed cooking and loved to play cards. She was an active member of the community and was Lady of the Year in 2005. Diane absolutely cherished spending time with her family and many friends.
She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Jerry Ross of Flemingsburg; one daughter, Dr. Madeline "Cori" Ross Tabor of Horse Cave; one son, John Paul Ross of Nashville, Tenn.; and one grandchild, Joseph Anthony Tabor; three brothers, John Bugis of Nashville, Edward (Penny) Bugis of Highland, Mich., and Anthony (Rose Marie) Bugis of Holly, Mich.; two sisters, Mary Jo (Joel) Kowall of Holly, Mich. and Roseanne (Harold) Bennett of Howell, Mich.; brother-in-law, Robert (Lisa) Ross of Flemingsburg; and several nieces, nephews and many dear friends.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m., Monday, Jan. 19, 2009 at St. Charles Catholic Church.
Burial will follow in the Fleming County Cemetery, Flemingsburg.

Visitation is Sunday, Jan. 18, 2009 at the Denton-Workman Funeral Home in Flemingsburg.

Mr. Ripato

Michael Ray Ripato, 56, of Flemingsburg, died Thursday, Jan. 15, 2009 at his home.
He was born Sept. 16, 1952, to Ray and Lois Ripato of Maysville.
Mr. Ripato was a diary farmer for many years, served on the American Dairy Association Board, as well as the Southern United Dairy Industry Association Board of Directors. He was also the owner of the Fox Run Farms Trucking.
He was a graduate of Mason County High School and the University of Kentucky. He also attended Asbury Theological Seminary and was a member of the Olivet United Methodist Church.
Survivors in addition to his parents are two sons, Peter Ripato and wife, Amy of Flemingsburg, and Brandon Ripato of Maysville; one grandson, Levi Turner Ripato; two sisters, Patty Firesheets and husband, Don of Marietta, Ga., and Ruth Ann Furby of Maysville; and two brothers, Rev. Silas Ripato and wife, Carolyn of Louisville and Bobby Ripato of Maysville; two nieces, Bethanie Ripato and Courtney Ripato; and three nephews, Justin Firesheets, Nathan Firesheets and Cory Ripato.
Services will be held Monday, Jan. 19, 2009, at 1 p.m., at the Barbour and Son Funeral Home in Tollesboro. Rev. David Green will officiate.

Burial will follow in the Olivet Cemetery in Mason County. Serving as pallbearers will be Peter Ripato, Brandon Ripato, Silas Ripato, Bobby Ripato, Randy Barker and Jim Meadows.
Visitation will be Sunday, Jan. 18, 2009 at the funeral home from 5-9 p.m.

Mr. Flora

Samuel J. Flora, 81, of Elizaville, passed this life, Friday, Jan. 16, 2009, at his residence.
Sammy was born in Fleming County on April 25, 1927, to the late Maude Moran and Paul J. Flora.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Martha.
Sammy and his wife, Martha operated Flora Grocery in Elizaville for many years. He was a former employee of the Elizaville Cemetery and served as a member of the cemetery board.
He is survived by one daughter, Jennifer Flora James and husband, John of Elizaville; five siblings, Ollie Ray (Nancy) Flora of Flemingsburg, Aaron (Sue) Flora of Flemingsburg, Cora Helphinstine of Ewing, Berry Burke of Ewing, Eric (Shirley) Flora of Flemingsburg and Marion (Suzanne) Flora of Flemingsburg; a sister-in-law, Janice Hunt Flora of Elizaville.
He was preceded in death by three brothers, Edward (Buck) Flora, Ovel (Jip) Flora and Bobby Flora; and one sister, Nancy Carrie Flora.

Services are 1 p.m., Monday, Jan. 19, 2009, at the Price Bros. Funeral Home. Rev. Rich Anderson will officiate.
Burial will follow in the Elizaville Cemetery.
Visitation is 6 - 9 p.m., Sunday at the funeral home.

Murder charges filed

According to the Ledger Independent, the parents of infant Kaylee Buchanan are facing murder charges related to the death of the child, according to documents filed in Fleming County Circuit Court Friday.
Nearly six months after Kaylee Buchanan died at a Lexington hospital, a Fleming County grand jury indicted Terry Joe Buchanan, 31, and Jessica Marie Allen, 22, on one count of murder and one count of first-degree criminal abuse each. Both individuals could face a maximum of life in prison if convicted.
On July 20, 2008, 4-month-old Kaylee Buchanan was transported by ambulance from a Ewing residence on Connector Road (Kentucky 165) to University of Kentucky Hospital, where she died approximately three days later, according to investigators familiar with the case. The case officially became a homicide investigation late last month after the Fayette County Coroner's Office determined that the death was caused by "blunt force head trauma."
The criminal abuse count of the indictments alleges both defendants "intentionally abused Kaylee Buchanan, who was less than 12 years of age, or aided and assisted another, by causing serious physical injury to said child, when her right femur and fibula were broken, which required medical treatment."
The abuse allegedly occurred "on or about the period of July 9-13, 2008," according to the indictment.
The murder count alleges "on or about July 20, 2008" the defendants "struck, or aided and assisted another, to strike Kaylee Buchanan's head one or more times, which resulted in her death."

Fleming County Council for the Arts

The new Fleming County Council for the Arts will present the Herman Chittison Celebration of the Arts in Flemingsburg as its initial project. The all-inclusive organization is in the process of legal incorporation and application for non-profit status. More details and event dates will be released as they become available.

The next meeting of the Council for the Arts will be Jan. 27, 5:30 p.m., at the Fleming County Public Library. Everyone with an interest in the arts, of any kind, is welcome to attend and join. Annual dues for individuals are $25.

Mrs. Gibson

Mary Lee McClain Gibson, 71, of Watson Road, Hillsboro died Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2009, at her residence.
She was born March 3, 1937, in Hillsboro, daughter of the late Byrom and Lucille Royse McClain. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Byrom McClain Jr. Her husband, William Franklin Gibson, died Aug. 3, 2002.
Survivors include one brother, Don (Janie) McClain of Hillsboro; three sisters, Billie (Gabe) Alderman of Morehead, Louise England of Maysville and Carolyn (Ronnie) Helphenstine of Flemingsburg; and several nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Gibson was a 34-year employee of the U.S Shoe Corp. / Nine West in Flemingsburg, Ripley, Ohio, and Maysville. She was a member of the Hillsboro Christian Church.
Services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009, at the Hutton Funeral Home with the Rev. Harley Sexton Jr., officiating.
Burial will follow in the Hillsboro Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Kevin Fulkerson, Mike McClain, Rick Rhodes, Harold Dean Sorrell, Dick Adams, Steve Call, Calvin Flora and Claude Reffitt.

Visitation for Mary Lee McClain Gibson is after 5 p.m., Friday, Jan. 16, 2009, at the Hutton Funeral Home in Hillsboro.

Transportation crews treating, patrolling roadways

FLEMINGSBURG, Ky. - Transportation Cabinet crews in several northeast Kentucky counties are treating and patrolling roadways as light snow moves through the region.
Salt truck crews are out in Mason, Fleming, Lewis, Rowan, Bath and Carter counties in Department of Highways District 9. In neighboring District 7, crews are spot-treating in Scott and Bourbon counties until midnight.
National Weather Service forecasts call for bitter cold and snowy weather through Thursday. Highway crews will monitor road conditions and treat as necessary. Motorists should watch for slick spots, and remain aware that bridges and overpasses often freeze first.
Road and weather conditions for major highways across Kentucky are available online at 511.ky.gov or by dialing 511. Kentucky's Snow and Ice Treatment Map may be viewed online at http://kytcgis.ky.gov/snow_ice/. The map shows highway crew activity in each county.

Panthers beat Augusta

Fleming Co. 71
Augusta 56

Fleming Co.
22
18
14
17
71

Augusta
9
5
29
13
56

Fleming Co. (7-9) -- Gray 21, Jolly 17, Dugan 11, Clark 8, Fraser 4, Newsom 6, Kinder 2, Taylor 2.

Augusta (4-9) -- Kelsch 28, White 14, Krebs 7, Gibbs 3, Pue 2.

KYTC road crews on alert for snow and ice

Crews out in district counties

FLEMINGSBURG, Ky. – Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) road crews in Department of Highways District Nine have begun pre-treating interstates and major highways in advance of a winter storm.

Crews are applying brine, which is a salt compound that sticks to dry road surfaces and begins dissolving as soon as snow hits the road. It’s the first line of defense against wintry precipitation, giving salt truck crews a head start.

National Weather Service forecasts call for chances of snow most of the week with accumulation possible Tuesday. In addition, cold arctic area is expected to move through Kentucky, which could make driving conditions hazardous.

Highway crews in District Nine – covering Bath, Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Fleming, Greenup, Lewis, Mason, Nicholas and Rowan counties – will remain on alert, ready to treat more than 2,000 miles of roadways with snow plows in every county, more than 100 operators, nearly 20,000 tons of salt, and tens of thousands of gallons of salt brine and liquid calcium.

The most heavily traveled roadways are the first priorities during snow removal. Less traveled roads are cleared as quickly as possible. You can find your county’s snow and ice priority map online at http://transportation.ky.gov/d9/Snow.htm.

Motorists are reminded to drive with caution in snow and ice, to please share the road with KYTC equipment, and to always buckle up and Drive Smart. Kentucky’s Snow and Ice Treatment Map is available online at http://kytcgis.ky.gov/snow_ice.

Winter Driving Tips

Drive carefully. Allow plenty of time to get to your destination. Do not use cruise control. Remember that bridges, overpasses and exit and entrance ramps can be icy when other areas are not.

Leave a “space cushion.” Leave enough room between you and the car in front of you

because stopping in snow may require up to four times your normal stopping distance.

Be seen. Dull, cloudy days will cut down on visibility so drive using low-beam headlights.

Steer into the skid. Stay calm and ease your foot off the gas while carefully steering in the direction you want the front of your vehicle to go.

Mrs. Barcy, Mrs. Leet, Ms. Stacy

Thelma L. Gilvin Barcy, 54, of Flemingsburg, died Saturday, Jan. 10, 2009, in Flemingsburg.
She was born Nov. 25, 1954 in Cincinnati, the daughter of Fannie and Auston D. Gilvin.
In addition to her parents, she is survived by her husband, William Barcy; three sons, Joseph Modesitt of Florida, Jeramia Modesitt of Fleming County, and John Esposito of Florida; three grandchildren, Auston, Heaven and Halee Modesitt of Flemingsburg; four brothers, Bill Gilvin of Fleming County, Ron Gilvin of Miamisburg, Ohio, Gene Gilvin of Dayton, Ohio, and Frank Gilvin of Kentucky; and two friends, Susan (Rick) Schatz and Helen Rowe.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Eli Gilvin; and two sisters, Martha Hamilton and Nettie Swearinger.
In following Thelma's wishes, the family has chosen cremation.
Denton-Workman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Mary Ethel Leet, 98, of Flemingsburg, died Friday, Jan. 9, 2009, in Flemingburg.
She was a housewife and the widow of William (Willie T.) Leet.
Mrs. Leet was born Aug. 22, 1910 in Jessamine County, the daughter of the late John and Anna Rose Burgent Hager.
She is survived by two sons, Ernie (Linda) Leet of May's Lick and Ronnie (Mabel) Leet of Fleming County; a daughter, Betty Ruark of Fleming County; 254 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and 15 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her sons, Russell Leet, Kenneth Leet, David Leet, Richard Leet and Tommy Leet; and a grandchild, Tracy Leet.
Services are 2 p.m., today, Jan. 12, 2009, at the Mount Tabor United Methodist Church with Bro. Greg Grimes officiating.
Burial will follow in the Mount Tabor Cemetery.
Visitation is 1 p.m., until the hour of services today at the church.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105-1905.
Denton-Workman Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Deborah Ann Stacy, age 33, of Flemingsburg, passed away Saturday, Jan. 10, 2009, at her residence.
She was born July 27, 1975, in Fleming County. He parents are Wilma R. Kegley and her husband, Nelson Kegley of Lewis County and the late James Dale Stacy.
Other survivors include two daughters, Haley Lasha Hilterbrand and Mallory Dale Simms, both at home; her grandfather, James Stacy of Wallingford and the late Thelma Blevins Stacy; a brother, Travis Dean Stacy of Lewis County; and two sisters, Della Jean Logan of Carter County and Tammy Jo Richmond of Flemingsburg. She is also survived by two nieces and one nephew.
Services are 1 p.m., Tuesday at the Petersville Church of God with Rev. Milt Stanfield officiating.
Burial will follow in the Sargents Cemetery.
Visitation is after 6 p.m., today at Boone-Nickell Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to the family for funeral expenses.

Comets 53, Lady Panthers 37

West Carter 53

Fleming Co. 37

Deming 68, FCHS 55

Deming 68
Fleming Co. 55

Fleming Co.
14
11
17
13
55

Deming
21
12
20
15
68

Fleming Co. (5-8) -- Dugan 12, Frazier 2, Gray 11, Jolly 8, Newsome 8, Clark 14.

Deming (8-5) -- Mitchell 15, Grause 7, L.King 12, K.King 22, Caldwell 10, Clifford 2

Mrs. Schwartz

Mrs. Virginia Sparks Lowe Schwartz, 89, died Thursday at the Maysville Nursing and Rehab. Facility.
She was the widow of the late Virgil A. Lowe and Paul H. Schwartz.
She was born in Fleming County, on Jan. 11, 1919, to the late William T. and Clarice Million Sparks.
She is survived by a son, Jack (Merlyn) Lowe of Augusta; two daughters, Bonnie Lowe Tosso of Lexington and Phyllis Ann Reese of Maysville; one brother, Clyde Sparks of Lexington; and two sisters, Bernice Sparks Porter of Kansas and Christine Sparks Harmon of Flemingsburg; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Edith Mineer; and a brother, Elwood Sparks.
Private funeral services and visitation will be at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are by the Boone-Nickell Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

Mrs. Purcell

Helen Purcell passed away Monday, Jan. 5, 2009, in Lexington.
Born April 14, 1918 to the late Harry and Mollie Hughes Henry, she was the widow of Theodore Purcell.
Surviving in death is her son, Ted (Penny) Purcell of Flemingsburg; daughter, Dr. Carolyn Purcell of Lexington; three grandchildren, Drew Purcell of Lexington, Amber Tolle of Maysville and John Ashley Black of Flemingsburg; one sister-in-law, Anna May Henry; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her two brothers, Emmett Preston Henry and Harry Hughes Henry; and her sister, Emma Jane Henry.
Helen had three great loves in her life. One great love was for children. She served as a foster grandmother for Fleming County school children for many years, well into her eighties. At 80, she quipped, "Both my children are retired and I'm still working." Her second love was church music, especially the old hymns. From her early thirties she played piano for her church, Oakland Mills United Methodist Church in Nicholas County, Helena Methodist Church in Mason County, and Flemingsburg First United Methodist Church in Fleming County. Her third great love was laughter, As a teen she played the clown in school plays, and until the end of her long and full life, she read the comics and the obituaries (to see if she was there). One of her recent doctors said he loved to have her come in because she was joyful.
Services will be 11 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 8, 20089, at the Flemingsburg First United Methodist Church in Fleming County, with Rev. Ben Cain officiating.

Visitation for Mrs. Purcell will be 6-8 p.m., today, Jan. 7, 2009, at the Denton-Workman Funeral Home in Flemingsburg.
Interment will be in the Elizaville Cemetery at Elizaville following the services Thursday.
Memorials may be made to Flemingsburg First United Methodist Church Memorial Fund.

Pollard trial begins Jan. 20

Circuit Judge Stockton Wood heard arguments from attorneys on both sides of the Roy Pollard case Jan. 5, and ruled to keep the trial date set for Jan. 20.

Pollard defense attorneys Amanda Mullins and Tom Griffiths with the Department of Public Advocacy had made a motion for a continuance of the trial scheduled for Jan. 20 and 21, 26, 27, and 28. Wood said he was not in favor of a continuance and ruled that the trial would go on as scheduled.

Another motion for change of venue was made by DPA in which Commonwealth’s Attorney Kathryn Hendrickson made a motion objecting to the change of venue to Mason County. Wood ruled Dec. 5 that the court would try to seat an unbiased jury before he would consider a change of venue.

Pollard has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the death of Jason Thompson and his aunt, Willa Thompson on Jan.11, 2008, at their homes in the Muses Mill community. He has also been charged with one count each of unlawful imprisonment for allegedly kidnapping his ex-wife Bonnie Butler, first-degree assault, first-degree burglary, tampering with physical evidence, third-degree terroristic threatening, and violation of a domestic violence order related to the events of Jan. 11, 2008.
Wood also heard the motions filed on Dec. 29, which included a request for additional peremptory challenges, in addition to the standard eight peremptory challenges granted both the defense and prosecution during jury selection. The motion asks for 10 additional peremptory challenges for the defense team, which allows the opportunity for both the defense and prosecution to dismiss or excuse a potential juror without giving a valid reason. He said he would rule on those motions Jan. 16.
The second motion filed asks Hendrickson's office to disclose its victim(s) impact evidence and any penalty evidence it intends to produce during either the trial guilt phase or penalty phase.
The third motion asks the court to preclude aggravating circumstances of first-degree burglary because as it is applied in the case, it is unconstitutional. Mullins argued "the fatal shooting" took place outside of the Thompson home and there was no indication the crime was committed inside.
Mullins said she and Griffiths were trying to arrange a mental evaluation of Pollard, as well as get crime lab reports regarding blood stains found on the shirt Pollard was wearing the night of the murders. Mullins said the report would indicate exactly whose blood was on the shirt.
Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Gary Adkins said "the facts of the case are very clear cut, whether the blood is from Richard Anderson (who was shot in the hand), Willa Thompson or Jason Thompson.” There were no injuries on Pollard when he was admitted to Fleming County Hospital after he was captured Jan. 12, 2008.
Mullins argued that some of the evidence could relate to blood splatter.

Wood said he wanted to get the case started since it has been "several, several months" since the shootings took place. He then instructed Adkins to follow up on when lab reports would be available and advised Mullins to make arrangements to have Pollard transported from the state correctional facility in La Grange where he is currently incarcerated to the Mason County Detention Center for a mental evaluation.

Marla Toncray of The Ledger Independent contributed to this article.

Mrs. Purcell

Helen Purcell of Flemingsburg died Monday, Jan. 5 at her daughter’s home in Lexington. She was the widow of Theodore Purcell and the mother of Dr. Carolyn Purcell of Lexington and Ted (Penny) Purcell of Flemingsburg. Services are pending at Denton-Workman Funeral Home.

Betty Fryman

Betty Boone Fryman, 74, died Dec 31, 2008. Service 11am Mon. Denton-Workman Funeral Home. Visit 4-6pm Sun.