VEST, Ky. — An Ohio man was killed Friday afternoon in a utility terrain vehicle crash at Mine Made Adventure Park in Knott County.

Kentucky State Police said troopers responded to the crash on an off-road trail at Vest shortly before 1:30 p.m.

Investigators said Lance Walters, 44, of London, Ohio, was driving a UTV when he attempted to avoid a rock in the trail. The maneuver caused the vehicle to leave the trail and go over a steep embankment, overturning multiple times.

Walters suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Knott County Coroner’s Office.

A passenger in the vehicle was taken by ambulance to Hazard ARH Medical Center with injuries that were not considered life-threatening.

Police said both occupants were wearing seat belts, but neither was wearing a helmet.

Toxicology results are pending. Trooper David Banks is investigating the crash.

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LONDON, Ky. — A Mingo County man accused of trying to get a 13-year-old girl to send him nude photos has asked to plead guilty in his criminal case.

Tyler Castro, 23, of Williamson, was charged in February with a single count of attempted production of child porn in federal court.

In his signed plea agreement, Castro admits to engaging in a sexually explicit conversation with the girl over Facebook Messenger. He further admitted to sending the girl a nude photo of himself and asking her to send him nude pictures and videos of her. The girl did not comply.

Authorities found out about the conversation after the girl’s grandmother learned about it and reported him.

Once he pleads guilty, Castro will face a prison sentence of between 15 and 30 years when he is sentenced.

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PIKEVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is preparing to construct its first roundabout in the city of Pikeville, and the agency wants your input.

Roundabouts are circular intersections that replace traditional intersections using stop signs or traffic lights. Vehicles travel counterclockwise around a center island, yielding to traffic already in the circle.

Transportation officials say roundabouts are safer and reduce congestion and delays because traffic is always moving. Studies by the Federal Highway Administration show that roundabouts reduce fatal crashes by 90 percent and injury-accidents by 75-to-80 percent over traditional intersections.

The cabinet plans to construct Pikeville’s first roundabout at the intersection of Hambley Boulevard and Loraine Street.

In preparation for that project, Highway District 12 is asking area residents to complete a survey to give their opinions about roundabouts. The survey is also educational, as it includes nine questions asking people how to correctly navigate roundabouts. Once the survey is complete, the correct answers are given to let people know how they did.

You can access the survey at https://form.jotform.com/262953436420053. The survey will be available until Dec. 11.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Appalachian Power has announced plans to invest $17 billion in new natural gas-fired electricity generation and another $7.5 billion to upgrade existing coal-fired power plants in West Virginia.

Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced the investments Thursday, saying they are intended to increase electricity supply, improve reliability and help address rising energy costs.

The natural gas investment will add 3 gigawatts of generating capacity, with all new facilities expected to be operational by 2031. The projects are expected to create approximately 2,050 construction jobs and 100 permanent positions.

Appalachian Power also committed $7.5 billion to upgrades at its existing coal-fired power plants through 2050.

Morrisey said the projects will move forward under his administration’s ratepayer protection pledge, which he said will prevent infrastructure costs associated with the developments from being passed on to existing residential and business customers.

The announcement brings the total additional generating capacity announced since Morrisey launched his 50 by 50 initiative in September 2025 to 11.67 gigawatts, more than 34% of the additional capacity targeted by the state for 2050.

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by RODERICK MULLINS
media.rodmullins@gmail.com

CLINTWOOD, Va. — The Clintwood Town Council declined to reconsider its rejection of a request to place a 2009 manufactured home on a residential lot after a discussion about housing availability, neighborhood concerns and the town’s zoning requirements.

A motion to reconsider the earlier decision failed, leaving the denial in place.

Glenn Hearl asked council members to reverse their decision, arguing that the 2009 Palm Harbor double-wide was in excellent condition and would fit the surrounding neighborhood. He said the home would meet applicable building and zoning requirements and receive exterior improvements.

Supporters also cited older manufactured homes nearby and a previous exception granted in 2024 for a 1997 double-wide on Sunset Drive. They questioned why the proposed home could not receive similar consideration.

Town representatives said the earlier denial was based on the home’s age. During the discussion, council members said the town revised its ordinance in March 2025, reducing the allowable age of manufactured homes from 10 years to five years.

The legal counsel for the town, Susan Wood, clarified that the request involved a special exception rather than a variance.

The individual interested in purchasing the home, Nathan O’Quinn told the council that he and his wife, Paula, intended to buy the home and live there with their two children. He said the property would not be used as a rental. O’Quinn added that his wife works in the Dickenson County Public School system and that their children attend Ridgeview schools. The family wanted to remain in the community, he said.

Hearl also described the difficulty of finding available housing and land, saying the delay affected the proposed property purchase, relocation of the manufactured home and the family’s housing plans.

He added that a substantial amount had been paid toward moving the home and that the mover had been waiting about a month and a half. He said another location, including property in Wise County, could become necessary.

Some council members expressed concern about reconsidering the request without further consultation with the town attorney and additional input from neighbors who had previously opposed it.

Council members discussed postponing the matter and arranging another meeting before ultimately voting on the unsuccessful motion to reconsider.

In other business, town officials reported receiving a $100,000 grant for a waterline replacement project. An official said the funding followed an extension granted after the town missed an application deadline. Additional funding is being sought for the project.

The council also authorized an agreement for general architectural and engineering services, contingent on revisions requested by town staff and legal counsel and a final review of the contract.

Town officials scheduled the Christmas tree lighting for 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, followed by a performance of “Frosty” at the Jettie Baker Center.

Organizers also reported preparations for Christmas in the Park, including Santa, music, hot chocolate and participation by businesses and other groups. Town crews have begun installing holiday lights, with additional decorations planned after Veterans Day observances.

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PAINTSVILLE, Ky. — Police are investigating after what appear to be human skeletal remains were discovered beneath a residence on Main Street in Paintsville.

According to the Paintsville Police Department, officers were dispatched to the home around 7 p.m. Wednesday after homeowners remodeling the property discovered what appeared to be human remains beneath a bathtub.

Officers and investigators responded along with members of the Johnson County Coroner’s Office. Further examination revealed potential human skeletal remains and a dress beneath the bathtub.

Additional potential human remains were later discovered in a crawlspace beneath the residence, police said.

The remains have not been publicly identified, and authorities hav not said how long they may have been there or how the person died.

The investigation remains active. Police said additional information will be released when it becomes available and appropriate.

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by RODERICK MULLINS
media.rodmullins@gmail.com

CLINTWOOD, Va. — The Dickenson County Board of Supervisors hosted its annual Veterans Breakfast recently, bringing together local veterans for a morning of fellowship, appreciation, and recognition of their service to the nation and community.

The annual event provided veterans an opportunity to share a meal, reconnect with friends and neighbors, and be recognized for their military service and sacrifices. The breakfast has become a meaningful tradition in Dickenson County, reflecting the community’s continued appreciation for the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

This year’s breakfast also highlighted the contributions veterans continue to make long after their military service has ended. Three individuals were presented with special awards recognizing their dedication, leadership, and commitment to serving others.

• Jim Childress received the Lifetime of Service Award, recognizing his long standing dedication to serving his community and making a positive difference in the lives of others.
• Andy Rose was presented with the Steadfast Service Award, honoring his dependable service, volunteerism, and continued willingness to contribute to his community.
• Chris Cronkhite received the Veterans Champion Award, recognizing his ongoing efforts to support fellow veterans, strengthen connections within the veteran community, and encourage veterans to remain engaged and involved through his work with Rally Point Appalachia.

Additional recognition was given to the oldest veteran, youngest veteran, and veteran with the most years of military service in attendance. These recognitions highlighted the generations of military service represented at the gathering.

The event also featured a raffle made possible through the generosity of local businesses, organizations, and individuals who donated prizes for the veterans in attendance. The Board of Supervisors extends its sincere appreciation to Shelbie Willis, Homemakers, NAPA, Clintwood Farm Supply, Gift Baskets Instead, Modern Hardware, Clintwood Lumber, Rosewood Gardens, Rally Point Appalachia, and Veterans Services for their generous contributions. Their support helped make the event even more special and demonstrated the community’s appreciation for its veterans.

The Board also extends its gratitude to all veterans throughout Dickenson County for their service, sacrifice, and continued contributions to the community. Their dedication to both country and community remains an important part of Dickenson County’s history and future.

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by RODERICK MULLINS
media.rodmullins@gmail.com

CLINTWOOD, Va. — Dickenson County is pleased to announce the official naming of Mountain Laurel Commerce Park, formerly known as Red Onion Industrial Park, marking another milestone in the county’s ongoing efforts to attract investment, support business development, and create new economic opportunities.

The newly named Mountain Laurel Commerce Park represents years of planning, investment, and collaboration to develop infrastructure and prepare competitive industrial sites for prospective businesses and industries. The Park features approximately 5-, 10-, and 15-acre development sites, providing opportunities for businesses seeking to establish or expand operations in Southwest Virginia.

The name Mountain Laurel Commerce Park reflects the natural beauty and identity of Dickenson County while presenting a welcoming and marketable image to prospective industries and investors.

“Economic development is about creating opportunities and positioning our community for the future,” said Dana Cronkhite, Executive Director, Dickenson County Industrial Development Authority. “Mountain Laurel Commerce Park represents a significant investment in our county’s future. Having build ready sites allows us to compete for projects that bring jobs, investment, and long term economic growth to our community.”

The development of the commerce park is part of Dickenson County’s broader strategy to diversify its economy, strengthen its business environment, and build upon the region’s existing assets. With infrastructure improvements and site development substantially completed, the county will continue working with regional and state economic development partners to market the property and identify prospective businesses.

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by NED PILLERSDORF
Former Congressional Candidate

Can’t help but notice that the Kentucky Democratic Party is giving themselves a standing ovation for their modest wins in the midterms.Excuse us here in eastern Kentucky if we are not applauding.

In fact, the performance of the Kentucky Democratic Party when compared to other southern states was an abysmal failure.

While the Democratic parties in states such as Mississippi, South Carolina ,Florida, North Carolina, and Tennessee went all out to help all of their candidates, who either won or were competitive, the leadership of the Kentucky Democratic Party made the strategic decision to completely ignore the fifth congressional district in Eastern Kentucky.

The stunning historic truth is there is not a single Democratic office holder from the Fifth Congressional District who will be in Frankfort when the legislature convenes in January. We had one — the number is now zero.

Myself and the four female legislative candidates all lost our races, and none of our races were competitive.

The Democratic Party made it clear at their annual convention at the Hyatt in Lexington this summer that we were not worthy.

I personally sponsored the excellent four female legislative candidates and helped fund their campaigns throughout our fifth congressional district.

When we arrived at the Hyatt and learned there was a downstairs fundraising reception, we were greeted by a security guard who was told by the party officials we were not allowed in. Not surprisingly our names were never mentioned at the annual convention dinner. None of us received funding.

I was personally treated as an incompetent novice, even though I was the campaign manager for my spouse’s five successful judicial campaigns.

Former Supreme Court Justice Janet Stumbo accomplished something the Democratic Party doesn’t know how to do- it’s called winning elections in Appalachia.

The bottom line is that there is not a single congressional district in the nation who has suffered and will suffer more from the Republican assault on the less fortunate than our poverty-stricken district.

The good news is that thanks to the wonderful blue tsunami, help is on the way from elsewhere thanks to the Democratic parties in other states who saw the blue wave coming and didn’t do what the Kentucky Democratic Party did — abandon many of their candidates.

As far as the Democratic party is concerned, we might as well be in West Virginia.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — The USDA is proposing a change to federal food assistance rules that could make an estimated 6.3 million people ineligible for SNAP, including households that currently qualify through certain state assistance programs.

The proposed rule would narrow the circumstances under which households can automatically qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as food stamps.

The proposal, published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, would limit that automatic eligibility to households receiving qualifying assistance through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, or TANF.

Under current rules, states can also use certain noncash benefits and services funded through TANF — including child care, transportation assistance and other family support services — to establish automatic SNAP eligibility.

The proposed change would require households qualifying through those other services to meet SNAP’s regular income and resource requirements instead.

The USDA says the change is intended to ensure benefits are directed toward households that have demonstrated financial need through qualifying assistance programs. The department also says it would bring eligibility rules more closely in line with the original purpose of categorical eligibility, which was to simplify the application process rather than expand the number of people eligible for benefits.

The department estimates approximately 3.2 million households, representing 6.3 million people, could lose SNAP benefits when the proposal reaches its full effect in fiscal year 2029. That would account for approximately 17.6% of current SNAP participants.

The USDA estimates the change would reduce federal SNAP spending by approximately $44.6 billion over five years, from fiscal years 2027 through 2031.

The proposal could also affect other assistance programs that use SNAP participation to establish eligibility.

The department estimates approximately 1.78 million children could lose automatic eligibility for free school meals. However, it says about 97% of those children would likely remain eligible for free or reduced-price meals through a separate income-based application process.

An estimated 42,000 children could potentially lose access to summer food assistance, while approximately 5,500 women, infants and children could lose eligibility for the Women, Infants and Children program, commonly known as WIC.

The USDA says the proposed rule addresses the expansion of broad-based categorical eligibility policies, which allow states to use certain TANF-funded programs to extend SNAP eligibility beyond federal income and resource limits.

According to the department, 46 states were using those policies as of December 2025. The USDA estimates that 17.6% of current SNAP participants qualify through these expanded policies.

The department acknowledges the proposed changes would increase administrative work for states, which would have to conduct additional income and resource assessments for households that no longer qualify automatically.

The rule is a proposal and has not been finalized. The USDA is accepting public comments for 30 days following its publication in the Federal Register. Those wishing to submit comments can do so by the following methods:

• Mail: Send comments to SNAP Program Development Division, Food and Nutrition Administration, 5601 Sunnyside Ave, Beltsville, MD 20705
• Website: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for submitting comments.
• Email: Send comments to: sm.fn.snappdbrules@usda.gov. Include Docket ID Number [FNA-2026-0661], “Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: Reforming Categorical Eligibility” in the subject line of the message.
• All written comments submitted in response to this proposed rule will be included in the record and will be made available to the public.

A copy of the proposed rule follows:

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