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Community donates 900 shoeboxes of gifts
by Rebecca Morris
Reporter

Volunteers Monday put the finishing touches on an effort to help children around the world share in the joys of Christmas.

First Baptist Church in Leitchfield served as a drop-off spot for boxes for Operation Christmas Child. Individuals, schools, businesses and churches were asked to fill empty shoe boxes with toys, school supplies and other items for needy children in other countries.

Operation Christmas Child is a project of international Christian relief and evangelism organization Samaritan’s Purse, headed by Franklin Graham. It is designed to let children know — through the power of a simple gift and the message of hope through Jesus Christ — that they are loved and not forgotten.

Stephanie Zurmehly, who coordinates the local drive, said more than 900 boxes were collected locally this year, up from 700 in 2011.

Participants are asked to pack a box with age- and gender-appropriate items for kids in three age categories: 2 to 4, 5 to 9, and 10 to 14. They’re also asked to donate $7 to help cover the cost of shipping the boxes.

People started dropping off boxes Nov. 12, Zurmehly said. On Monday afternoon, they were picked up and taken via truck to Bowling Green. From there they’ll be shipped to Atlanta, where they will be checked to make sure their contents are safe and age appropriate.

The boxes will be repackaged and sent for distribution to children in more than 100 countries, using whatever means necessary—trains, airplanes, boats, bikes and even elephants— to get them into the kids’ hands. A story about the life of Jesus — writen in the child’s native language — is included in each box, Zurmehly said.

“Leitchfield residents should know they really can change the lives of children around the world with a simple gift,” said Amy Johnson, Mid-South regional director for Operation Christmas Child. “For children living in extreme conditions, these boxes let them know that they are loved and not forgotten and that there is hope for their situation.”

In 2012, Operation Christmas Child expects to reach a milestone—collecting and delivering shoe boxes to more than 100 million children since the project began in 1993.

Zurmehly said the local project, which she’s headed for six years, is “a lot of work.”

“Our job is to make sure the boxes are packed properly for shipment,” she said, explaining each individual shoebox must be secured that then packed into shipping boxes.

While donations for this year’s Operation Christmas Child have wrapped up, people can still volunteer for prayer mobilization and other activites to support the program. For more information on how to participate in Operation Christmas Child call (615) 778-0046 or visit www.SamaritansPurse.org/OCC. Collecting for the 2013 shipments will begin in late October and early November 2013.

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Matt Lasley | News-Gazette
More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
Matt Lasley | News-Gazette More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
slideshow
Schools add to busy summer construction schedule
by Brittany Wise
Reporter
Jun 19, 2013 | 83 views | 0 0 comments | 4 4 recommendations | email to a friend | print
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow

Groundwork for the coming Central Office Building for Grayson County Schools is slated to begin before the end of the month.

Bids were recently accepted for the project, according to Superintendent Barry Anderson, and a Lexington-based firm, which offered the lowest of the ten submitted bids, was chosen for the construction of the new building.

The prep work on the Central Office site is just one of many projects the School Board has commissioned for the summer, as work at both H. W. Wilkey Elementary School and Grayson County High School is already in full swing.

At the recent School Board meeting on Thursday, September 13, board members voted to make some minimal changes to the projects which are essential an overhaul of the outdated plumbing systems in the two schools, and will be using ceramic tile instead of the originally-planned polymer. The group felt that this would be a better long-term decision and carries only a slightly higher cost.

In addition to physical changes to multiple buildings, and the construction of a new Central Office, Grayson County Schools are also facing some big personnel changes prior to the start of the 2013-14 school year.

Caneyville Elementary School Principal Ronnie Sarver spoke at last week’s School Board meeting to announce his retirement.

“It was a difficult decision for me to leave,” Sarver told the group, “but I think it’s the right one for me right now.”

He went on to thank the Board and the Central Office staff for their exceptional support. “I want you to know that Grayson County is a wonderful place to work,” he said, adding with a laugh that now that he is entering retirement, “I plan on wearing jeans for at least a year.”

Caneyville Elementary will be joining two other local elementary schools - Clarkson Elementary and Lawler Elementary - in starting the upcoming school year with a new principal at the helm.

In other School Board news:

- Superintendent Anderson recommended that the board approve the purchase of lighting for the high school soccer field.

He explained that they have applied for three separate grants that might cover the lighting costs, but have been turned down each time.

Through negotiations with a lighting company, however, he has been able to reduce the cost of the project from $160,000 to $118,000, and feels that the benefits which this would provide the students who use the field would be well worth the cost.

Anderson said that the field is used for a number of purposes, and recommended that action be taken promptly since “soccer season is right around the corner.”

The group voted to purchase the recommended lighting.

- Board of Education Chairwoman Carolyn Thomason announced that Superintendent Barry Anderson’s annual evaluation went very well, and he met all ten standards for evaluation.

“We’re blessed to have him,” Thomason said.

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Ruby Lee Smith
Jun 19, 2013 | 106 views | 0 0 comments | 0 0 recommendations | email to a friend | print

Ruby Lee Smith, age 66, of Olaton, KY, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2013 at the Kindred Hospital in Louisville, KY.

She was born on November 23, 1946, in Manchester, KY, the daughter of the late Enoch and Elsie Cuadill Gray.

She was a housewife, who enjoyed writing to over 200 pen pals and volunteering. She was a member of the Prayer Pal’s Group on the internet, the Handicapped Friends, the Forty Sixers club and attended Small Grove Church.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Ira Smith, one daughter, Jennifer Coon (Roy) of Horse Branch, KY, three sons, Ira Richard of Nashville, TN, Edwin Daniel of Lexington, KY and James Isaac Smith of Morgantown, KY, one grandson Thomas Coon, two brothers, Enoch and Billy Wayne Gray, and three sisters, Judy Gray, James Russell Gray and Melissa Ann Gray.

There will be no services, but the family will receive friends at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until 121 noon on Thursday.

Online condolences can be made in the guestbook at Dermitt Funeral Home’s website, www.dermittfuneralhome.com.

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Matt Lasley | News-Gazette
More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
Matt Lasley | News-Gazette More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
slideshow
Schools add to busy summer construction schedule
by Brittany Wise
Reporter
Jun 19, 2013 | 83 views | 0 0 comments | 4 4 recommendations | email to a friend | print
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow

Groundwork for the coming Central Office Building for Grayson County Schools is slated to begin before the end of the month.

Bids were recently accepted for the project, according to Superintendent Barry Anderson, and a Lexington-based firm, which offered the lowest of the ten submitted bids, was chosen for the construction of the new building.

The prep work on the Central Office site is just one of many projects the School Board has commissioned for the summer, as work at both H. W. Wilkey Elementary School and Grayson County High School is already in full swing.

At the recent School Board meeting on Thursday, September 13, board members voted to make some minimal changes to the projects which are essential an overhaul of the outdated plumbing systems in the two schools, and will be using ceramic tile instead of the originally-planned polymer. The group felt that this would be a better long-term decision and carries only a slightly higher cost.

In addition to physical changes to multiple buildings, and the construction of a new Central Office, Grayson County Schools are also facing some big personnel changes prior to the start of the 2013-14 school year.

Caneyville Elementary School Principal Ronnie Sarver spoke at last week’s School Board meeting to announce his retirement.

“It was a difficult decision for me to leave,” Sarver told the group, “but I think it’s the right one for me right now.”

He went on to thank the Board and the Central Office staff for their exceptional support. “I want you to know that Grayson County is a wonderful place to work,” he said, adding with a laugh that now that he is entering retirement, “I plan on wearing jeans for at least a year.”

Caneyville Elementary will be joining two other local elementary schools - Clarkson Elementary and Lawler Elementary - in starting the upcoming school year with a new principal at the helm.

In other School Board news:

- Superintendent Anderson recommended that the board approve the purchase of lighting for the high school soccer field.

He explained that they have applied for three separate grants that might cover the lighting costs, but have been turned down each time.

Through negotiations with a lighting company, however, he has been able to reduce the cost of the project from $160,000 to $118,000, and feels that the benefits which this would provide the students who use the field would be well worth the cost.

Anderson said that the field is used for a number of purposes, and recommended that action be taken promptly since “soccer season is right around the corner.”

The group voted to purchase the recommended lighting.

- Board of Education Chairwoman Carolyn Thomason announced that Superintendent Barry Anderson’s annual evaluation went very well, and he met all ten standards for evaluation.

“We’re blessed to have him,” Thomason said.

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Ruby Lee Smith
Jun 19, 2013 | 106 views | 0 0 comments | 0 0 recommendations | email to a friend | print

Ruby Lee Smith, age 66, of Olaton, KY, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2013 at the Kindred Hospital in Louisville, KY.

She was born on November 23, 1946, in Manchester, KY, the daughter of the late Enoch and Elsie Cuadill Gray.

She was a housewife, who enjoyed writing to over 200 pen pals and volunteering. She was a member of the Prayer Pal’s Group on the internet, the Handicapped Friends, the Forty Sixers club and attended Small Grove Church.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Ira Smith, one daughter, Jennifer Coon (Roy) of Horse Branch, KY, three sons, Ira Richard of Nashville, TN, Edwin Daniel of Lexington, KY and James Isaac Smith of Morgantown, KY, one grandson Thomas Coon, two brothers, Enoch and Billy Wayne Gray, and three sisters, Judy Gray, James Russell Gray and Melissa Ann Gray.

There will be no services, but the family will receive friends at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until 121 noon on Thursday.

Online condolences can be made in the guestbook at Dermitt Funeral Home’s website, www.dermittfuneralhome.com.

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Matt Lasley | News-Gazette
More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
Matt Lasley | News-Gazette More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
slideshow
Schools add to busy summer construction schedule
by Brittany Wise
Reporter
Jun 19, 2013 | 83 views | 0 0 comments | 4 4 recommendations | email to a friend | print
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow

Groundwork for the coming Central Office Building for Grayson County Schools is slated to begin before the end of the month.

Bids were recently accepted for the project, according to Superintendent Barry Anderson, and a Lexington-based firm, which offered the lowest of the ten submitted bids, was chosen for the construction of the new building.

The prep work on the Central Office site is just one of many projects the School Board has commissioned for the summer, as work at both H. W. Wilkey Elementary School and Grayson County High School is already in full swing.

At the recent School Board meeting on Thursday, September 13, board members voted to make some minimal changes to the projects which are essential an overhaul of the outdated plumbing systems in the two schools, and will be using ceramic tile instead of the originally-planned polymer. The group felt that this would be a better long-term decision and carries only a slightly higher cost.

In addition to physical changes to multiple buildings, and the construction of a new Central Office, Grayson County Schools are also facing some big personnel changes prior to the start of the 2013-14 school year.

Caneyville Elementary School Principal Ronnie Sarver spoke at last week’s School Board meeting to announce his retirement.

“It was a difficult decision for me to leave,” Sarver told the group, “but I think it’s the right one for me right now.”

He went on to thank the Board and the Central Office staff for their exceptional support. “I want you to know that Grayson County is a wonderful place to work,” he said, adding with a laugh that now that he is entering retirement, “I plan on wearing jeans for at least a year.”

Caneyville Elementary will be joining two other local elementary schools - Clarkson Elementary and Lawler Elementary - in starting the upcoming school year with a new principal at the helm.

In other School Board news:

- Superintendent Anderson recommended that the board approve the purchase of lighting for the high school soccer field.

He explained that they have applied for three separate grants that might cover the lighting costs, but have been turned down each time.

Through negotiations with a lighting company, however, he has been able to reduce the cost of the project from $160,000 to $118,000, and feels that the benefits which this would provide the students who use the field would be well worth the cost.

Anderson said that the field is used for a number of purposes, and recommended that action be taken promptly since “soccer season is right around the corner.”

The group voted to purchase the recommended lighting.

- Board of Education Chairwoman Carolyn Thomason announced that Superintendent Barry Anderson’s annual evaluation went very well, and he met all ten standards for evaluation.

“We’re blessed to have him,” Thomason said.

Comments
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Ruby Lee Smith
Jun 19, 2013 | 106 views | 0 0 comments | 0 0 recommendations | email to a friend | print

Ruby Lee Smith, age 66, of Olaton, KY, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2013 at the Kindred Hospital in Louisville, KY.

She was born on November 23, 1946, in Manchester, KY, the daughter of the late Enoch and Elsie Cuadill Gray.

She was a housewife, who enjoyed writing to over 200 pen pals and volunteering. She was a member of the Prayer Pal’s Group on the internet, the Handicapped Friends, the Forty Sixers club and attended Small Grove Church.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Ira Smith, one daughter, Jennifer Coon (Roy) of Horse Branch, KY, three sons, Ira Richard of Nashville, TN, Edwin Daniel of Lexington, KY and James Isaac Smith of Morgantown, KY, one grandson Thomas Coon, two brothers, Enoch and Billy Wayne Gray, and three sisters, Judy Gray, James Russell Gray and Melissa Ann Gray.

There will be no services, but the family will receive friends at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until 121 noon on Thursday.

Online condolences can be made in the guestbook at Dermitt Funeral Home’s website, www.dermittfuneralhome.com.

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Matt Lasley | News-Gazette
More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
Matt Lasley | News-Gazette More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
slideshow
Schools add to busy summer construction schedule
by Brittany Wise
Reporter
Jun 19, 2013 | 83 views | 0 0 comments | 4 4 recommendations | email to a friend | print
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow

Groundwork for the coming Central Office Building for Grayson County Schools is slated to begin before the end of the month.

Bids were recently accepted for the project, according to Superintendent Barry Anderson, and a Lexington-based firm, which offered the lowest of the ten submitted bids, was chosen for the construction of the new building.

The prep work on the Central Office site is just one of many projects the School Board has commissioned for the summer, as work at both H. W. Wilkey Elementary School and Grayson County High School is already in full swing.

At the recent School Board meeting on Thursday, September 13, board members voted to make some minimal changes to the projects which are essential an overhaul of the outdated plumbing systems in the two schools, and will be using ceramic tile instead of the originally-planned polymer. The group felt that this would be a better long-term decision and carries only a slightly higher cost.

In addition to physical changes to multiple buildings, and the construction of a new Central Office, Grayson County Schools are also facing some big personnel changes prior to the start of the 2013-14 school year.

Caneyville Elementary School Principal Ronnie Sarver spoke at last week’s School Board meeting to announce his retirement.

“It was a difficult decision for me to leave,” Sarver told the group, “but I think it’s the right one for me right now.”

He went on to thank the Board and the Central Office staff for their exceptional support. “I want you to know that Grayson County is a wonderful place to work,” he said, adding with a laugh that now that he is entering retirement, “I plan on wearing jeans for at least a year.”

Caneyville Elementary will be joining two other local elementary schools - Clarkson Elementary and Lawler Elementary - in starting the upcoming school year with a new principal at the helm.

In other School Board news:

- Superintendent Anderson recommended that the board approve the purchase of lighting for the high school soccer field.

He explained that they have applied for three separate grants that might cover the lighting costs, but have been turned down each time.

Through negotiations with a lighting company, however, he has been able to reduce the cost of the project from $160,000 to $118,000, and feels that the benefits which this would provide the students who use the field would be well worth the cost.

Anderson said that the field is used for a number of purposes, and recommended that action be taken promptly since “soccer season is right around the corner.”

The group voted to purchase the recommended lighting.

- Board of Education Chairwoman Carolyn Thomason announced that Superintendent Barry Anderson’s annual evaluation went very well, and he met all ten standards for evaluation.

“We’re blessed to have him,” Thomason said.

Comments
(0)
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Ruby Lee Smith
Jun 19, 2013 | 106 views | 0 0 comments | 0 0 recommendations | email to a friend | print

Ruby Lee Smith, age 66, of Olaton, KY, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2013 at the Kindred Hospital in Louisville, KY.

She was born on November 23, 1946, in Manchester, KY, the daughter of the late Enoch and Elsie Cuadill Gray.

She was a housewife, who enjoyed writing to over 200 pen pals and volunteering. She was a member of the Prayer Pal’s Group on the internet, the Handicapped Friends, the Forty Sixers club and attended Small Grove Church.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Ira Smith, one daughter, Jennifer Coon (Roy) of Horse Branch, KY, three sons, Ira Richard of Nashville, TN, Edwin Daniel of Lexington, KY and James Isaac Smith of Morgantown, KY, one grandson Thomas Coon, two brothers, Enoch and Billy Wayne Gray, and three sisters, Judy Gray, James Russell Gray and Melissa Ann Gray.

There will be no services, but the family will receive friends at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until 121 noon on Thursday.

Online condolences can be made in the guestbook at Dermitt Funeral Home’s website, www.dermittfuneralhome.com.

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Matt Lasley | News-Gazette
More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
Matt Lasley | News-Gazette More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
slideshow
Schools add to busy summer construction schedule
by Brittany Wise
Reporter
Jun 19, 2013 | 83 views | 0 0 comments | 4 4 recommendations | email to a friend | print
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow

Groundwork for the coming Central Office Building for Grayson County Schools is slated to begin before the end of the month.

Bids were recently accepted for the project, according to Superintendent Barry Anderson, and a Lexington-based firm, which offered the lowest of the ten submitted bids, was chosen for the construction of the new building.

The prep work on the Central Office site is just one of many projects the School Board has commissioned for the summer, as work at both H. W. Wilkey Elementary School and Grayson County High School is already in full swing.

At the recent School Board meeting on Thursday, September 13, board members voted to make some minimal changes to the projects which are essential an overhaul of the outdated plumbing systems in the two schools, and will be using ceramic tile instead of the originally-planned polymer. The group felt that this would be a better long-term decision and carries only a slightly higher cost.

In addition to physical changes to multiple buildings, and the construction of a new Central Office, Grayson County Schools are also facing some big personnel changes prior to the start of the 2013-14 school year.

Caneyville Elementary School Principal Ronnie Sarver spoke at last week’s School Board meeting to announce his retirement.

“It was a difficult decision for me to leave,” Sarver told the group, “but I think it’s the right one for me right now.”

He went on to thank the Board and the Central Office staff for their exceptional support. “I want you to know that Grayson County is a wonderful place to work,” he said, adding with a laugh that now that he is entering retirement, “I plan on wearing jeans for at least a year.”

Caneyville Elementary will be joining two other local elementary schools - Clarkson Elementary and Lawler Elementary - in starting the upcoming school year with a new principal at the helm.

In other School Board news:

- Superintendent Anderson recommended that the board approve the purchase of lighting for the high school soccer field.

He explained that they have applied for three separate grants that might cover the lighting costs, but have been turned down each time.

Through negotiations with a lighting company, however, he has been able to reduce the cost of the project from $160,000 to $118,000, and feels that the benefits which this would provide the students who use the field would be well worth the cost.

Anderson said that the field is used for a number of purposes, and recommended that action be taken promptly since “soccer season is right around the corner.”

The group voted to purchase the recommended lighting.

- Board of Education Chairwoman Carolyn Thomason announced that Superintendent Barry Anderson’s annual evaluation went very well, and he met all ten standards for evaluation.

“We’re blessed to have him,” Thomason said.

Comments
(0)
Comments-icon Post a Comment
No Comments Yet
Ruby Lee Smith
Jun 19, 2013 | 106 views | 0 0 comments | 0 0 recommendations | email to a friend | print

Ruby Lee Smith, age 66, of Olaton, KY, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2013 at the Kindred Hospital in Louisville, KY.

She was born on November 23, 1946, in Manchester, KY, the daughter of the late Enoch and Elsie Cuadill Gray.

She was a housewife, who enjoyed writing to over 200 pen pals and volunteering. She was a member of the Prayer Pal’s Group on the internet, the Handicapped Friends, the Forty Sixers club and attended Small Grove Church.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Ira Smith, one daughter, Jennifer Coon (Roy) of Horse Branch, KY, three sons, Ira Richard of Nashville, TN, Edwin Daniel of Lexington, KY and James Isaac Smith of Morgantown, KY, one grandson Thomas Coon, two brothers, Enoch and Billy Wayne Gray, and three sisters, Judy Gray, James Russell Gray and Melissa Ann Gray.

There will be no services, but the family will receive friends at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until 121 noon on Thursday.

Online condolences can be made in the guestbook at Dermitt Funeral Home’s website, www.dermittfuneralhome.com.

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Matt Lasley | News-Gazette
More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
Matt Lasley | News-Gazette More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
slideshow
Schools add to busy summer construction schedule
by Brittany Wise
Reporter
Jun 19, 2013 | 83 views | 0 0 comments | 4 4 recommendations | email to a friend | print
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow

Groundwork for the coming Central Office Building for Grayson County Schools is slated to begin before the end of the month.

Bids were recently accepted for the project, according to Superintendent Barry Anderson, and a Lexington-based firm, which offered the lowest of the ten submitted bids, was chosen for the construction of the new building.

The prep work on the Central Office site is just one of many projects the School Board has commissioned for the summer, as work at both H. W. Wilkey Elementary School and Grayson County High School is already in full swing.

At the recent School Board meeting on Thursday, September 13, board members voted to make some minimal changes to the projects which are essential an overhaul of the outdated plumbing systems in the two schools, and will be using ceramic tile instead of the originally-planned polymer. The group felt that this would be a better long-term decision and carries only a slightly higher cost.

In addition to physical changes to multiple buildings, and the construction of a new Central Office, Grayson County Schools are also facing some big personnel changes prior to the start of the 2013-14 school year.

Caneyville Elementary School Principal Ronnie Sarver spoke at last week’s School Board meeting to announce his retirement.

“It was a difficult decision for me to leave,” Sarver told the group, “but I think it’s the right one for me right now.”

He went on to thank the Board and the Central Office staff for their exceptional support. “I want you to know that Grayson County is a wonderful place to work,” he said, adding with a laugh that now that he is entering retirement, “I plan on wearing jeans for at least a year.”

Caneyville Elementary will be joining two other local elementary schools - Clarkson Elementary and Lawler Elementary - in starting the upcoming school year with a new principal at the helm.

In other School Board news:

- Superintendent Anderson recommended that the board approve the purchase of lighting for the high school soccer field.

He explained that they have applied for three separate grants that might cover the lighting costs, but have been turned down each time.

Through negotiations with a lighting company, however, he has been able to reduce the cost of the project from $160,000 to $118,000, and feels that the benefits which this would provide the students who use the field would be well worth the cost.

Anderson said that the field is used for a number of purposes, and recommended that action be taken promptly since “soccer season is right around the corner.”

The group voted to purchase the recommended lighting.

- Board of Education Chairwoman Carolyn Thomason announced that Superintendent Barry Anderson’s annual evaluation went very well, and he met all ten standards for evaluation.

“We’re blessed to have him,” Thomason said.

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Ruby Lee Smith
Jun 19, 2013 | 106 views | 0 0 comments | 0 0 recommendations | email to a friend | print

Ruby Lee Smith, age 66, of Olaton, KY, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2013 at the Kindred Hospital in Louisville, KY.

She was born on November 23, 1946, in Manchester, KY, the daughter of the late Enoch and Elsie Cuadill Gray.

She was a housewife, who enjoyed writing to over 200 pen pals and volunteering. She was a member of the Prayer Pal’s Group on the internet, the Handicapped Friends, the Forty Sixers club and attended Small Grove Church.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Ira Smith, one daughter, Jennifer Coon (Roy) of Horse Branch, KY, three sons, Ira Richard of Nashville, TN, Edwin Daniel of Lexington, KY and James Isaac Smith of Morgantown, KY, one grandson Thomas Coon, two brothers, Enoch and Billy Wayne Gray, and three sisters, Judy Gray, James Russell Gray and Melissa Ann Gray.

There will be no services, but the family will receive friends at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until 121 noon on Thursday.

Online condolences can be made in the guestbook at Dermitt Funeral Home’s website, www.dermittfuneralhome.com.

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Matt Lasley | News-Gazette
More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
Matt Lasley | News-Gazette More than 600 unserviceable American flags were placed in the American Legion Post 81's fire pit to be burned during its annual Flag Day Ceremony on Friday, June 14.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Samuel Gaither, Grayson County's Camper of the Week, shows off his new bicycle along with Sheriff Rick Clemons.
slideshow
Schools add to busy summer construction schedule
by Brittany Wise
Reporter
Jun 19, 2013 | 83 views | 0 0 comments | 4 4 recommendations | email to a friend | print
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette
Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
Brittany Wise | News-Gazette Remodeling is well underway at H. W. Wilkey Elementary school, one of two schools receiving a much-needed plumbing make-over during the summer break.
slideshow

Groundwork for the coming Central Office Building for Grayson County Schools is slated to begin before the end of the month.

Bids were recently accepted for the project, according to Superintendent Barry Anderson, and a Lexington-based firm, which offered the lowest of the ten submitted bids, was chosen for the construction of the new building.

The prep work on the Central Office site is just one of many projects the School Board has commissioned for the summer, as work at both H. W. Wilkey Elementary School and Grayson County High School is already in full swing.

At the recent School Board meeting on Thursday, September 13, board members voted to make some minimal changes to the projects which are essential an overhaul of the outdated plumbing systems in the two schools, and will be using ceramic tile instead of the originally-planned polymer. The group felt that this would be a better long-term decision and carries only a slightly higher cost.

In addition to physical changes to multiple buildings, and the construction of a new Central Office, Grayson County Schools are also facing some big personnel changes prior to the start of the 2013-14 school year.

Caneyville Elementary School Principal Ronnie Sarver spoke at last week’s School Board meeting to announce his retirement.

“It was a difficult decision for me to leave,” Sarver told the group, “but I think it’s the right one for me right now.”

He went on to thank the Board and the Central Office staff for their exceptional support. “I want you to know that Grayson County is a wonderful place to work,” he said, adding with a laugh that now that he is entering retirement, “I plan on wearing jeans for at least a year.”

Caneyville Elementary will be joining two other local elementary schools - Clarkson Elementary and Lawler Elementary - in starting the upcoming school year with a new principal at the helm.

In other School Board news:

- Superintendent Anderson recommended that the board approve the purchase of lighting for the high school soccer field.

He explained that they have applied for three separate grants that might cover the lighting costs, but have been turned down each time.

Through negotiations with a lighting company, however, he has been able to reduce the cost of the project from $160,000 to $118,000, and feels that the benefits which this would provide the students who use the field would be well worth the cost.

Anderson said that the field is used for a number of purposes, and recommended that action be taken promptly since “soccer season is right around the corner.”

The group voted to purchase the recommended lighting.

- Board of Education Chairwoman Carolyn Thomason announced that Superintendent Barry Anderson’s annual evaluation went very well, and he met all ten standards for evaluation.

“We’re blessed to have him,” Thomason said.

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Ruby Lee Smith
Jun 19, 2013 | 106 views | 0 0 comments | 0 0 recommendations | email to a friend | print

Ruby Lee Smith, age 66, of Olaton, KY, passed away on Monday, June 17, 2013 at the Kindred Hospital in Louisville, KY.

She was born on November 23, 1946, in Manchester, KY, the daughter of the late Enoch and Elsie Cuadill Gray.

She was a housewife, who enjoyed writing to over 200 pen pals and volunteering. She was a member of the Prayer Pal’s Group on the internet, the Handicapped Friends, the Forty Sixers club and attended Small Grove Church.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Ira Smith, one daughter, Jennifer Coon (Roy) of Horse Branch, KY, three sons, Ira Richard of Nashville, TN, Edwin Daniel of Lexington, KY and James Isaac Smith of Morgantown, KY, one grandson Thomas Coon, two brothers, Enoch and Billy Wayne Gray, and three sisters, Judy Gray, James Russell Gray and Melissa Ann Gray.

There will be no services, but the family will receive friends at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until 121 noon on Thursday.

Online condolences can be made in the guestbook at Dermitt Funeral Home’s website, www.dermittfuneralhome.com.

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