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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Kentucky’s outdated stance on cannabis: It’s time for change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…
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The silent crisis of education funding in Kentucky
In Kentucky, the educational promise to our children is dimming. A disturbing report from the Kentucky Center for Economic Policy paints a bleak picture: the chasm in per-pupil funding between the state’s wealthiest and poorest districts is not just widening—it’s reaching a level that was deemed unconstitutional three decades ago. Yet, here we are, facing…
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Resurgence of Warfield Park is a testament
The decision of Martin County officials to revitalize Warfield Park was welcome news last week. Martin County Judge/Executive Lon Lafferty and District 5 Magistrate Ronald Workman’s announcement about sweeping renovations reminds us of the park’s importance in the lives of Martin County’s residents. Warfield Park, once the “jewel of Eastern Kentucky,” as the judge called…
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Mural is more than paint on a wall
In downtown Inez, a captivating mural has emerged on the outer walls of the old jailhouse, drawing locals and tourists alike to what is now termed “Umbrella Alley.” A story of passion, talent and the will to beautify a community is painted upon that wall, and at the center of this tale stands Inez artist…
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Solar hiring fair gives Martin Countians golden opportunity
In the face of economic challenges, Martin County residents stand at the cusp of a transformative chapter. With the upcoming hiring fair for the Martin County Solar Project set for Sept. 7 at the Collier Center in Inez, the opportunity for residents to reshape their own economic fabric beckons. With as many as 300 positions offering an…
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Hope for Riverside Apartments residents
Perhaps now more than ever, it is a truism that home is where the heart is. For the residents of Riverside Apartments, their homes have recently been entangled in a web of administrative and utility-related complexities that have threatened to destabilize their lives. The Martin County’s Fiscal Court’s initiative to offer zero-interest loans for residents…
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Waters of concern in Martin County
The July 25 Martin County Water Board meeting laid bare troubling issues and the possibilities of further troubles. First, let’s address the leaky clarifier debacle. Part of a $3.4 million rehabilitation project is nothing to scoff at. It’s an investment to ensure the proper functioning of the district’s water treatment plant and raw water intake.…
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A step forward but a long road ahead for water
The plight of Martin County’s water system is a grave reminder of the critical condition of infrastructure in the region and Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District. The recent request by U.S. Representative Harold “Hal” Rogers for $5 million in funding for Martin County, part of an $85.85 million Community Project Funding package, is a step in…
Category: Editorial
