-
SOAR Innovation POWER team ignites entrepreneurial ecosystems in eastern Kentucky
BY PHILL BARNETT MOUNTAIN CITIZEN PIKEVILLE — In a significant development for the region, Shaping Our Appalachian Region (SOAR) unveiled its Innovation POWER team, poised to transform eastern Kentucky’s economy. Bolstered by a nearly $1.5 million Appalachian Regional Commission POWER grant awarded in October 2023, the team will develop a technology-focused entrepreneurial ecosystem across the…
-
Woody and Bear’s House of Rhythm and Brews Opens in Louisa
BY BUGS DIXON MOUNTAIN CITIZEN LOUISA — Woody and Bear’s House of Rhythm and Brews, a new venue offering live music, BBQ cuisine and affordable drinks, held its soft opening this past weekend in Louisa. The establishment is set for its grand opening Friday. Local musicians Jason Jobe, Devin Moore and Phill Barnett performed during…
-
Fill out Martin County Water District lead and copper survey before July 1
BY PHILL BARNETT MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — In a proactive step towards ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water, the Martin County Water District has initiated a Lead and Copper survey aimed at gathering critical information from its customers, which will remain open until July 1. The short survey, designed to be concise and…
-
BOE spotlights Gifted & Talented, Science Fair winners
BY PHILL BARNETT MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — This month’s Board of Education meeting, which was postponed for the 15th Region tournament, featured a student spotlight highlighting the academic achievements of middle and elementary school students in Martin County. Superintendent Larry James recognized regional science fair winners, including McKenna Fletcher, who received first place in the…
-
Martin County BOE discusses attendance crisis
Price named regional BOE chair, MCHS Solar bid rejected BY PHILL BARNETT MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — The Board of Education met March 13 at a rescheduled time due to the 15th Region Tournament last week. The top agenda items included staff and school reports as well as bids for various contracts with the district. After…
-
Governor’s proposed budget allocates $12 million for Martin County water
BY PHILL BARNETT MOUNTAIN CITIZEN During Gov. Andy Beshear’s Team Kentucky update Jan. 18, the governor laid out the differences in the budgets proposed by his administration and the budget proposed by the House of Representatives. Gov. Beshear’s proposed budget allocated $12 million specifically for Martin County water projects, a significant and direct investment in…
-
Appalachian Artist Festival announces 2024 musical lineup
BY ROGER SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — The Appalachian Artist Festival, returning for its second year, is set to light up downtown Inez with its “hotter than blue blazes” musical lineup Aug. 3. This event celebrates Appalachian culture, bringing together an eclectic mix of musicians, artists, crafters, writers, photographers and other creative talents. This year’s…
-
Appalachian Artist Festival rings in New Year with exclusive fundraiser show
BY BUGS DIXON MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — As the clock wound down on 2023, a select group of music enthusiasts gathered at the Collier Center for a special New Year’s Eve celebration. The evening was an exclusive prelude to the 2024 Appalachian Artist Festival (AAF), featuring an intimate acoustic concert with musicians Cody Christian, Phill…
-
Stidham Old Time Music Association launches with Christmas jam session
BY BUGS DIXON MOUNTAIN CITIZEN TOMAHAWK — Old time music is set to resonate even louder throughout northeastern Kentucky with the formation of the Stidham Old Time Music Association Inc. This new organization, dedicated to the promotion of music and arts in the region, is hosting its inaugural board meeting followed by a jam session…
-
Lawrence County’s Phill Barnett unveils debut single ‘Nowhere,’ an ode to home and heritage
LAWRENCE COUNTY — Mark your calendars. On Oct. 27, Lawrence County native Phill Barnett will step into the music scene with the release of his much-anticipated debut single “Nowhere.” Available to stream and purchase online and uniquely offered for purchase on floppy disc, “Nowhere” is more than just a song—it is a haunting and spiritual…