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Celebrating the true essence of Christmas in our community
As the festive lights adorn our streets and homes, our community is embraced by the warmth of the Christmas spirit. This special season, rooted in the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, reminds us of love, hope and the beauty of giving. In our close-knit community, Christmas means more than just decorations and gifts.…
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We urge legislators to act upon critical need
BY LARRY JAMES SUPERINTENDENT MARTIN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT At a time when education shapes the future, Martin County School District emerges as a pivotal force in advocating for an increase in state SEEK (Support Education Excellence in Kentucky) funding. Driven by the insights from the “Back on Track” report, this campaign transcends a mere request…
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Judge Lafferty: Unity defines community
In a ceremony at the All-Sports Hall of Fame induction, Martin County Judge/Executive Lon Lafferty, a longtime Inez doctor, summed up the spirit of Martin County in his welcoming remarks. The judge’s speech celebrated the achievements of sports luminaries and portrayed an image of a community united by shared values and strengths in the face of adversity.…
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A Thanksgiving tribute to the heart and soul of Christmas in the Mountains
As Thanksgiving casts its glow upon us, it is a fitting time to express our gratitude to those who bring the Christmas in the Mountains festival to life in Inez. This cherished annual event is more than just a celebration of the holiday season; it is community, dedication and the spirit of love. This year,…
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Christian Help is a beacon of hope
Christian Help’s goal of bringing holiday cheer to 400 families in Mingo and Martin counties is more than a seasonal gesture—it is compassion. The event, set for Dec. 16 at the old Kermit gym, embodies the true spirit of Christmas. Parents and guardians facing financial constraints will have the joy of selecting new gifts for…
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The unintended consequences of prohibiting homeless encampments in small towns
In a recent meeting, the Warfield City Commission discussed the formulation of an ordinance aimed at prohibiting homeless encampments and will be discussing the ordinance this Thursday. While the concerns of the commissioners and the community are understandable, it’s crucial to consider the unintended consequences such a move could have on both the town and…
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Fiscal Court must balance community concerns and cleanup goals
The recent Martin County Fiscal Court hearing on the real property tax rate may not have garnered much attention, but the new solid waste ordinance stole the spotlight. Residents and the county are aligned in their desire to address the county’s garbage problem. However, residents had numerous concerns and raised important questions about the balance…
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The heartbeat of rural America: The unwavering importance of local newspapers
In an era dominated by the flashing headlines of national news outlets and the rapid-fire tempo of social media updates, the humble local newspaper remains a steadfast pillar in rural communities across America. While it is easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of global events, the stories from our own backyard often have…
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Rockcastle Pedway project lost in bureaucratic inertia
It has been more than 14 years since the initiation of the Rockcastle Pedway project, and the City of Inez is caught in the tangle of bureaucracy, miscommunication and unanticipated obstacles. What was initially seen as a promising venture to construct a pedestrian bridge has become marred by delays, budget overshoots and a loss of…
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Kentucky’s outdated stance on cannabis: It’s time for change
In recent years, the United States has seen a tide turn in the debate on cannabis legalization. A majority of states have recognized the numerous benefits of decriminalizing and legalizing the substance, from reducing the burden on the criminal justice system to generating significant tax revenues. Yet, Kentucky and 17 other states have opted to…
Category: Editorial
