Bob Porter, MayorCouncil Members Tommy Trimble, Sara Blair & Shawn Thompson

Jim Meek, Bill Mike Runyon, David VanHoose, Paintsville is the place to be in...

Welcome to theCity of Paintsville City Betweenthe Lakes

On behalf of the City of Paintsville, welcome to our community. Whatever brings you here, we hope youll take time to discover why our residents feel so warmly about their hometown. If you are visiting for pleasure, take time to discover and enjoy some of the wonderful attractions in our area. If you are here on business, were confident youll find a friendly business climate.

Were very proud of our city and the people who make up our community. If you stick around long enough, we think you will find Paintsville not only a great place to visit, but a wonderful place to live.

Local Celebs In the News

The Country Music HighwayGas up your car & tune in a Country Station for an unforgettable road trip.

US 23 CMH MuseumDiscover Star Power!Celebrates 10 years.

Chris StapletonHis whiskey-soaked sound might be the worst sports anthem ever.Is the Soulful Outlaw saving Country Music?

Where Artists Come to Play

Its Show Time!Find out whats playing at the MAC, the SIPP and JWT.

Star Spangled TalentMarlana VanHoose is loud, proud and AWESOME!

The Legacy of John C. C. MayoFrom a school teachers pay, this entrepreneur amassed a fortune.

The Mountain HomePlaceGet a firsthand look at how Johnson Countys early settlers worked and played.

Preserving the Heritage of Van LearIn this once booming company town, coal was mined around the clock by a multi-cultural workforce. The towns history is worth preserving.

Van Lear DaysBring Back the Turtle Man!

The Kentucky Apple Festival53 Years of crowd-pleasing fun!

So Much to Brag About Welcome to Our Community 7 8

Heritage Arts & Artists Adventure9

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Dawkins Line Rail TrailOnce a busy railroad line and now Kentucky's largest multi-use rail trail. You don't have to be a marathon runner or mountain bike extremist to enjoy this unique adventure.

Paintsville GolfOne of Kentucky's oldest 18 hole courses is still one of the best.

Alessandra WalkerThe heart of a champion.

Paintsville Lake Fishing, boating and watersports are great out on the lake. Enjoy the scenery from the Kiwanis Trail.

Little Mud Lick FallsOff the beaten path.

Education51

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Meet the PresidentDr. G. Devin Stephenson takes the lead at Big Sandy CTC.

Mayos MarkThe Mayo Campus of Big Sandy CTC established the nations blueprint for technical education.

Look to the SkiesThe East Kentucky Science Center is a NASA Space Place and so much more.

Paintsville Independent SchoolsThe Standard for Excellence

Johnson County SchoolsGreat Expectations for Student Success

Highlands Center for AutismChanging Lives

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Highlands Health SystemBrings speech & language therapy to our community.

Paul B. Hall Regional Medical CenterUtilizes advanced technology for quality healthcare.

Kings Daughters Medical SpecialtiesDont wait to choose your heart doctor.

Focus on Business

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Healthcare72

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The information in this publication is gathered in such a way as to insure maximum accuracy. Neither the publisher nor the Chamber guarantees either the correctness of the information furnished them nor the complete absence of errors or omissions. Hence responsibility for same neither can be, nor is, assumed.

2015 All Rights Reserved.

The information in this publication is gathered in such a way as to insure maximum accuracy. Neither the publisher nor the Chamber guarantees either the correctness of the information furnished them nor the complete absence of errors or omissions. Hence responsibility for same neither can be, nor is, assumed.

2015 All Rights Reserved.

Created, Produced & Published by:

Vantage Point Advertising, Inc.

P. O. Box 368 Stanville, KY 41659606-478-9494 vantagepointads.com

Owned and operated by Rhonda Hall Kretzer

Cover Photo - Images by John Michael

Paintsville/Johnson County Chamber of Commerce

228 Main Street Suite 201Paintsville, KY 41240

606-789-5688 www.pjcchamber.com

Contributing PhotographersJohn Michael Laney

Joshua L. BallJo Ann HarveyDoug KretzerTed Meadows

Paintsville HeraldRay Reeder

Amy Wallen

Tom Martin

Contributing WritersJoshua L. Ball Melissa Cornett

Doug KretzerFran Jarrell

Publisher/Editor/Creative Director:Art Director/Design & CompositionFeature Writers:Client Services:

Rhonda KretzerChad Eric Varney

Kitty Baird & Rhonda Kretzer

Meet Some Local EntrepreneursCountry Cottage BoutiqueEspresso CafBuckingham PlaceFarmers MarketCastles Jewelry & GiftsMaggard Security & Secure Storage Main Streets Antique Shops

Big Sandy RECCTaking power to the people for 75 years.

Paintsville & Johnson Countys Award-Winning Chamber of CommerceIts good for business!

Directories

Membership Directory

Church Directory 91

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Presented by:

Discover Paintsville & Johnson County

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Susan Wallen

The Paintsville/Johnson County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present this insiders guide to our hometown. Were eager to introduce visitors and newcomers to some of the unique features and attractions that make Johnson County such a special place. We think local residents might use it to discover something theyve been missing too.

Our Chamber is made up of local businesses and professionals working together with city and county officials, organizations and residents to improve and protect our quality of life. Please take time to review our membership directory in the back of this book and recognize the commitment our members have made to the growth and success of our community.

We hope you enjoy this viewbook and discover for yourself why we are so proud of Paintsville and Johnson County. After seeing some of what we have to offer, we think youll agree. . . we have a lot to brag about.

Fran Jarrell, Executive Director The Board of Directors and Membership of thePaintsville/Johnson County Chamber of Commerce

ACE -

So much to brag about!

Front Row: Stephanie Healy, Kathy Rubado, Angela Taylor, Judy Daniel Back Row: John Michael Laney, Wes Stedtefeld, Bobby McCool, Jim Gambill, Burt Bellamy, Mark McKenzie, Joe Porter, Ann Collins, Scott Wells

Board of Directors 2014-2015

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ohnson County might be small, but it is big in qualities that make it a Jwonderful place to live, work and play. From the elaborate mansion of John C. C. Mayo to the humble childhood home of Loretta Lynn, Paintsville and surrounding communities are committed to preserving their heritage but intensely focused on providing residents and future generations an outstanding quality of life. Johnson County is an ideal place to raise a family. Two highly successful school systems, Paintsville Independent and Johnson County, are evidence that this is a community which values education. The emphasis on education enables our young people to be competitive and successful in whatever paths they follow. The Mayo Campus of Big Sandy Community and Technical College is a landmark in Paintsville and their main campus is located nearby. When the school and workdays are over, opportunities to enjoy leisure time abound. The Dawkins Line Rail Trail and Paintsville Lake State Park provide opportunities to blend fun and fitness activities in picturesque settings alongside nature's sideshows. Golfers never tire of the unique features of the Paintsville Golf Course. And here, in the heart of the Country Music Highway, arts and entertainment thrive whether you want to participate or just enjoy the show.Come along as we explore Paintsville and Johnson County. We want to show you some of the reasons those who live here are proud to call it home. Whether you are visiting or considering relocating, we welcome you. If you choose to stay, we invite you to find meaningful involvement through our many churches and volunteer organizations. As you discover all that we have to offer, we think you will come to love our community as we do.

Welcome to our community!

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The Legacy of John C. C. Mayo

The Legacy of John C. C. Mayo

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ohnson County's rich economic Jhistory dates back to 1790 when Virginia Colonel John Preston established a trading post in the area for furs and hardware. As the settlement grew and prospered, other enterprises followed, but perhaps the most influential entrepreneur was John C. C. Mayo.Mayo's family moved to Johnson county in 1870 and John attended school in Paintsville until he left for Kentucky Wesleyan College. While attending college, he realized the potential of coal and other mineral deposits in the Big Sandy Valley. Returning home to teach school, he used his paltry teacher's salary to buy land and mineral rights in the area. He would sell his acquisitions to

eastern iron and coal companies at a considerable profit. As he continued to buy and sell, he amassed a fortune. In 1905, Mayo and his wife, Alice, began the construction of a forty-room Classic Revival mansion which was completed in 1912. Following trips to the Bluegrass region, Mayo hired architect Herman Geisky to design a mansion which would rival those he had seen. The sandstone for the foundation and cornerstones, mined and shaped at Mayo's father's farm across Paint Creek, were transported by a manually operated overhead tram that was three-fourths of a mile long and reached a height of thirty feet. The massive stone columns for the entrance,

each in three separate pieces, were hauled through Paint Creek when it was dry on timber sleds pulled by twenty-oxen teams. The masonry work was performed by over one hundred Italian stonemasons from Cincinnati. Costing more than $250,000 at the time, today it would be at least $5 million.The original plans called for carbide gas lighting, but near the home's completion, it became evident that Paintsville would be getting electrical service so the house was then wired. Running water was provided by pumping water from a well to a cistern and then into the house. Mayo Mansion is a registered historic place in Kentucky.

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ayo was also a driving force Mbehind the construction of the Mayo Memorial United Methodist Church. Located near the mansion, the building was begun in 1908, and was predicted to cost $10,000. Mayo promised to pay half and also donated the land. Although costs rose to $30,000, the church is still considered one of the finest in the area. As was Mayo's mansion, the church was constructed of native sandstone from his father's farm and stones were transported to the site by the same aerial tram used for the home. The roof is made of over 12,000 glazed green tiles that weigh 6 pounds each. The Mayos and other church members commissioned the church's magnificent stained glass windows, designed by Italian craftsmen and imported from Italy. The windows portray the Birth, Death, Resurrection and Ascension of Christ. Mayo Memorial is also notable for its Pilcher pipe organ donated by Andrew Carnegie. Thanks to a bequest from church member Carol Thomas, the organ has been thoroughly refurbished, a process which took 6 weeks, and has

been dedicated in honor of Barbara Conley who played it at services for 52 years.Other renovations using the bequest include contracting to preserve and

protect the art windows, an addition of 2 rooms to the Parsonage, a Pastor's office on the first floor, and a Sunday School Annex. The Annex is named the Carol Thomas Educational Complex in honor of her generous gift.

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ocated just west of Paintsville at Paintsville Lake State Park is LMountain HomePlace. This attraction was created to help dispel the stereotypes often associated with the people of the Appalachian area, but it does much more than that. This historic working farm provides a firsthand look at some of the daily challenges faced by Johnson County's early settlers. It offers families and interested groups experiences such as an old-fashioned wedding at a historic church or attending a concert at an outdoor theater. Annual events include an Easter Egg Hunt, Heritage Days and the Haunted Trail.

Mountain HomePlaceWhere History Comes Alive

Where History Comes Alive

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The administrative building houses a museum of authentic tools, clothing and wares that were used from around 1850 to 1875. A gift shop features Appalachian crafted items such as handmade quilts fashioned with various styles of quilting, iron works created by the farm's blacksmith, and hand painted gourds, and handsewn dolls and other handmade toys.

The administrative building's auditorium, which seats 150 guests, is available for rental for wedding receptions, reunions, and other functions. It is used daily to show the award winning video narrated by Johnson County native Richard Thomas, who starred as John Boy in the TV series 'The Waltons.'

The main dwelling on the farm is the historic double pen, saddlebag, story and loft structure known as the McKenzie farm house. It was built in 1860 by David Jess McKenzie at the

lower Peter Cave Branch, today known as McKenzie Branch, in Johnson County. Adjacent to the main residence is a smoke house used for curing meat and storing fresh and canned vegetables.

Other historic buildings include a one-room school house, a double crib barn, the old Fishtrap United Baptist Church, and the original LeMaster house, built in 1840 and now a working blacksmith shop. The barnyard is home to many animals, including horses, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, and donkeys.

The gardens and fields of the working farm are surrounded by split-rail fencing. Interpreters in authentic period costumes perform daily chores as they would have been done during the 19th century. A variety of foods are grown from April through October, including sorghum cane, vegetables and various herbs. A Pumpkin Patch has recently been added where children are invited to select and decorate a pumpkin! The association is currently working on a Kentucky Proud certification for its farm products.

The natural acoustic sound of In the Pines Amphitheater provides a sound system unmatched in an indoor setting. On Memorial Day weekend, The Redbud Bluegrass and Gospel Sing hosts singers from all parts of the United States. Various other shows are held throughout the year as well.

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Lets have some funat the Mountain HomePlace!

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Preserving the History of Van Lear

an Lear was incorporated in 1912 and owes its Vexistence to the entrepreneurial efforts of John C. C. Mayo. Mayo, a former school teacher from Pike County, bought coal rights to lands along Miller's Creek in Johnson County and along Elkhorn Creek in Letcher County. He later sold those rights to Northern Coal and Coke who in turn sold them to Consolidation Coal Company of Maryland.

Van Lear Black, a director of Consolidation Coal Company, loaned that company money to construct five miles of railroad into the Johnson County property and the town was subsequently named for him. Ultimately, five mines were opened and the reputation of Miller's Creek block coal as a highly desirable domestic heating coal soon grew.

The vast coal deposits were mined from five underground mines around the clock. The miners included immigrant Irish, Italians and Slavs, as well as Appalachians and locals. The mines were integrated; both blacks and whites worked underground. During the boom years, the population surpassed 4000.

Consolidation operated the mines from 1910 through 1946 when the company divested itself of its property there. Individuals then residing in the 'company' houses were given the first chance to purchase their homes and many of them did. The town however, went into decline and ultimately most of the major buildings were torn down and the railroad removed. Since the end of local mining, only a handful of businesses continue to operate in the Van Lear area, including the Van Lear General Store (formerly Mine Number 5 Company Store) now owned

and operated by Loretta Lynn and Crystal Gayle's brother Herman Webb.

In 1981, a first-ever school reunion was held with many of the families of the original miners attending. The following year, the non-profit Van Lear Historical Society was organized, adopting as its aim the preservation of the town's history for former, present and future citizens of Van Lear. School reunions are now held every even-numbered year during Van Lear Days.

The Coal Miners' Museum is located in the former headquarters of the Miller's Creek Division of the Consolidation Coal Company in the central section of Van Lear. The museum currently houses several permanent exhibits including a collection of mining tools, a 'company' doctor's office, a local Veteran's Hall of Fame, the Van Lear School's memorabilia, a model of 'old' Van Lear, several original works of art, and the old Van Lear Post Office.

Icky's 1050's Snack Shop is located in the bottom floor of the museum. Dating back to the 1940's, it was originally run by Richard Icky Wetzel and was a favorite of the Van Lear High School students. It has been preserved to reflect that golden age where the jukebox was king and also serves as a gift shop for the Coal Miners' Museum.

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n the first Saturday of August, Ocrowds of people descend upon the community of Van Lear which has grown famous over the years as the childhood home of Crystal Gayle and Loretta Lynn. People routinely make the pilgrimage to Butcher Hollow (Hollar) to see the cabin which was the setting for Lynn's famous ballad Coal Miner's Daughter

The yearly celebration is produced in part by the Van Lear Historical Society and features old fashioned fun for the entire family. Live music performances, a car show, games, food, crafts, a parade and much, much more!

Van Lear Days

The 2012 event drew the biggest crowd when Kentucky celebrity Ernie Lee Brown Jr., better known as The Turtleman, brought his own brand of live action to the mountains for the celebration. Brown served as one of the Grand Marshals of the event, alongside Banjo Neal James,

Squirrel Brady and Jake Ison. The group was extremely popular with the crowd estimated at nearly 10,000 people. They stayed on site late into the night signing autographs and providing photo ops for their fans.

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For more information about the many adventures to discover

in Johnson County contact:

For more information about the many adventures to discover

in Johnson County contact:

For more information about the many adventures to discover

in Johnson County contact:

For more information about the many adventures to discover

in Johnson County contact:

P. O. Box 809100 Staves Branch Road

Paintsville, KY 41240

800-542-5790 or 606-297-1469paintsville23@gmail.com

visitpaintsvilleky.com

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very year on the first Saturday of October, The Apple Festival is a collector's paradise with Epeople gather in Paintsville for the Kentucky 180 street vendors and a flea market selling Apple Festival. First held in 1962, the event has items from antique glassware to hair bows. An grown to a week-long homecoming for families arts and crafts tent featuring photographic and and friends as well as a fun affair enjoyed by water color prints by noted local artists is a visitors from across the country. popular stop. On-street musical entertainment

adds to the festivities throughout the event. With attractions including everything from baby contests to amusement rides, there is something A special highlight is the Collector Car Show. to interest all ages. Food vendors offering People throughout the area bring their babies everything apple apple pies, candied apples, for young folks to see for the first time or to stir even apple butter cooked in a cast iron kettle sweet memories for those not so young. set up throughout the downtown area. Over 30 The event wraps up with a parade of floats and local non-profit organizations participate to raise beauty queens and a big country music show funds for their causes. that evening.

To learn more about the Kentucky Apple Festival, visit the website at kyapplefest.org.

How do you like them apples!

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radley Picklesimer, a native of BKentucky and Hollywood party-planner extraordinaire, came home to revive the tradition of an over-the-top Derby Eve Bash. Although he has lived in Los Angeles for over 20 years, he hosted a big, frothy, neon-tinged revel in Lexington this year. Once Lexington's leading drag queen, Picklesimer has created events for the likes of Barbra Streisand, Elton John, Ellen Degeneres, and the Osbournes.

There is no place more beautiful than spring in Kentucky," Picklesimer told the Herald-Leader, and his heart still remains there. He plans to retire in Johnson County where he has a small cabin and farm one hollow over from Butcher Holler, the childhood home of Loretta Lynn (the only living celebrity he really wants to meet.)

Until then, Picklesimer looks forward to spending more time in his home state doing more parties, weddings and other events.

undy Best is currently trekking the country on their Salvation City STour USA. They've had six sold-out shows in three weeks. In February, the duo was honored by the city of Prestonsburg with keys to the city. Then they received one of Kentucky's highest honors when the state revealed their names on signs along the world-famous Country Music Highway. This has been an exciting year for Sundy Best, with more great times ahead.

ohnson County native Chris Stapleton Jappeared on The Late Show with David Letterman April 14, 2015. With guest vocals from his wife Morgane, Stapleton performed the title track of his new album, Traveller. After 22 years hosting The Late Show, Letterman will retire on May, 20th.

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unning almost the entire length of eastern RKentucky, the Country Music Highway is devoted to the rich heritage of the region, especially its abundant musical tradition. Traveling the Highway, you will be immersed in the history of eastern Kentucky mountain music.

Winding 144 miles along the state's craggy eastern backbone, this National Scenic Byway honors many musical legends who have emerged from these ancient

Appalachian hills and hollows. In 1994, Kentucky's General Assembly resolved that U.S. 23 from Greenup county in the north to Letcher county in the south be designated the Country Music Highway in recognition of the many country music superstars who grew up along this route. The official recognition was the culmination of years of perseverance by a beloved and respected former music teacher in the Floyd County schools and founder of the Mountain Arts Center (MAC), Billie Jean Osborne.

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Hylo Brown (River, Johnson County) Billy Ray Cyrus (Flatwoods, Boyd County) Crystal Gayle (Van Lear, Johnson County)Tom T. Hall (Olive Hill, Carter County)Rebecca Lynn Howard (Salyersville, Magoffin County)The Judds - Naomi & Wynona (Ashland, Boyd County)Patty Loveless (Elkhorn City, Pike County)Loretta Lynn (Van Lear, Johnson County)Ricky Skaggs (Blaine, Lawrence County)Chris Stapleton (Paintsville, Johnson County)Gary Stewart (Jenkins, Letcher County)Sundy Best (Prestonsburg, Floyd County)Keith Whitley (Sandy Hook, Elliot County)Dwight Yoakum (Betsy Layne, Floyd County)

Ms Billie Jean knew talent abounded in the mountains and it was obvious to her that musicians had to leave the area to find an audience. Exploring further, she discovered the hometowns of 12 country music superstars were accessible from along U.S. 23. She incorporated her discovery into a segment of the Kentucky Opry's shows at the MAC with cast members imitating the stars from the area. Not only was their performance a critical success, it educated and enlightened those who saw it.

Among those who enjoyed the Opry's performance and were stirred by its message was U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers. Asking Billie Jean what he could do to encourage the development of the region's young people's talents, he became an avid supporter of a Country Music Highway resolution. With the assistance of

n Johnson county, around the IHighway's midway point, you will find Butcher Hollow where a narrow road leads to the humble log cabin which was the childhood home of the Queen of Country Music, America's beloved Coal Miner's Daughter, Loretta Lynn. Today, her brother, Herman Webb, still runs a general store nearby and is sometimes available to give tours of the family home.

state representatives dedicated to seeing the project through, the part of U.S 23 which passes through Kentucky became the Country Music Highway. It has been included in the National Highway system and receives Federal funding.

So fire up your car's engine and a Ricky Skaggs tune and hit this winding ribbon of mountain road for a one-of-a-kind Kentucky adventure! As you enter each eastern Kentucky county, you will see the highway sign naming the stars from the county you're passing through. It is best to allow two days for a leisurely exploration of the road, and summer and fall are the best seasons to drive this route because of the many local festivals.

As you travel the Country Music Highway, you'll find a part of America many people miss you'll find America's heart.

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s museums go, the US 23 Country Music Highway Museum isn't very big, Abut this lovely place has so much history and star power displayed that it feels huge. Country music fans will be intrigued by the stars' memorabilia and displays which each artist supplied. A unique gift shop features cookbooks by Loretta Lynn, Naomi Judd, and other area authors in addition to CDs, books, and videos by your favorite entertainers. The gift shop also features Appalachian crafts reflecting more artistry and culture along the Country Music Highway,

With table seating for 180 guests and theatre seating for 200, the Museum's Great Room can accommodate events or meetings with on-site or self-catered services from a complete kitchen facility. Other amenities include a 60-inch screen, a surround-sound system, and video capabilities.

Entering the museum, you will be greeted by the museum's coordinator. In addition to all that is displayed and written in the museum, she has much to add about life in the area, the musical families, her interactions with some of the stars, their children and families. She herself is a gem and a fountain of information. She can tell you about the stars displayed in this "hall of fame" but she can also tell you about new local talent and up and comers.

Try to visit on a Thursday, if you can arrange it. Front Porch Pickin' is a Thursday night tradition at the Museum when its stage is open to anyone who wants to play, jam and sing. Performers line the hallways and cover the porch as they tune and croon before taking the stage. It's an opportunity for talent from local and nearby counties to be heard in a truly unique way and it's your chance to take it all in or get up on stage and join in.

Sarah McCoart performed songs by Crystal Gayle at the CMH Museum's

10th Anniversary celebration.

he U.S. 23 Country Music THighway Museum celebrated its 10th anniversary on April 12, 2015. Guests were treated to cake and refreshments and given complimentary tours throughout the day. The museums superstars were honored by local artists who performed many of their hits. Special guest speakers for the event were Paintsville Mayor Bob Porter and State Representative Hubert Collins.

Country Music Highway

MUSEUMUS

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hris Stapleton's bearded face is Cwell known among the movers and shakers on Music Row. One of the most respected singer-songwriters in Nashville, Stapleton has penned songs for some of Nashville's biggest stars including George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, Luke Bryan, Darius Rucker and Josh Turner. Five of his songs have become Number One hits and more than 170 cuts are heard on albums of other well known artists such as Alan Jackson, Adele and Brad Paisley. He has worked

that whiskey-soaked sound with its punch-you-in-the-gut soul.

alongside notable co-writers including Vince Gill, Peter Frampton and Sheryl Crow. He has won six ASCAP Awards.

Born 37 years ago in Lexington, Chris Stapleton grew up in Staffordsville. His father (the late Herbert J. Stapleton) and both grandfathers were coal miners. His mother, Carol, is a dietitian. Stapleton was a member of Johnson Central High School class of 1996 where he focused more on sports than music.

After studying at Vanderbilt University for a year, he moved back to Kentucky and continued his education at Morehead State University. He left that school too

and moved into a cheap apartment with three friends in the Morehead area.

He recalled those days in a 2014 interview with American Songwriter magazine. We played bluegrass and I really got heavy into it, Stapleton said. It was more of a modern bluegrass Tim O'Brien, Darrell Scott. I loved Tony Rice and New Grass Revival. We listened to John Hartford a bunch. We'd sit around and pick and have a good time every night. That's where the discovery of that kind of music came from. I didn't really grow up with that kind of music.

A friend in Morehead put Stapleton in touch with a Nashville songwriter

By Rhonda Kretzer

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who was impressed with the songs he submitted. After a few months of traveling to and from Nashville, he decided to pack up and move there in 2001.

I moved to town with a chair, a sleeping bag, a sack full of clothes, a recorder and my guitar, Stapleton said. Within a week, he had signed a publishing contract and was writing songs every day.

In 2008, Stapleton co-founded a bluegrass band called the SteelDrivers where he played guitar, sang lead vocals and was their principal songwriter. The band was nominated for three Grammy awards. After two albums, Stapleton left the SteelDrivers and played for a short time with a rock band called the Jompson Brothers. After that, he focused on country.

In July, 2013, he released his first solo single, What Are You Listening To. CMT.com said it had that

whiskey-soaked sound with its punch-you-in-the-gut soul. The song didn't get much play on radio stations so it couldn't crack the Top 40. RollingStone magazine said that was, undeniably radio's loss.

Even though his first single didn't climb the charts, Stapleton's fans loved it and it was played hundreds of thousands of times online. The Johnson Central Golden Eagles basketball team adopted it as their theme song. Stapleton received a video from his sister showing the team cutting down the nets after winning the 2014 Regional Tournament with his soulful song playing in the background.

"I kind of think it was maybe the worst sports anthem ever, Stapleton said. But he was so honored, he drove from Nashville to sing it for the team in the locker room and was in the stands to support them at the state tournament.

Stapleton's first solo album, The Traveller, was released in May 2015. He told Rolling Stone magazine the album was inspired by a soul-searching trip west with his wife.

"I lost my dad back in October 2013, and I had a single that did not do so well on the radio," he says. "I needed some head-clearing space, and my wife had the presence of mind to purchase me an old Jeep, a 1979 Jeep Cherokee out in Phoenix. Instead of having it shipped back, we flew out there and drove it to south Florida and then home. It's a long haul back to here, which is kind of a crazy thing to do in a vehicle you aren't sure is going to make it or not.

Regarding the album's release, Stapleton said, This record was made standing on the shoulders of friends, family and heroes. I hope people enjoy listening to it as much as I've enjoyed making it.

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Reprinted with permission from the Canadian

National Post

The Soulful Outlaw: Chris Stapleton is saving country musicMay 8, 2015 By Sarah Boesveld

hris Stapleton's debut record CTraveller feels like the best possible step back in time: His bluesy, soulful plea on Sometimes I Cry could have been cut during the heyday at Memphis's Stax Records. And there's a Johnny Cash-esque reflectiveness in Daddy Doesn't Pray Anymore, which chronicles the spiritual and then physical death of Stapleton's father, a Kentucky coal miner. It was the senior Stapleton's death in 2013 that set Nashville's best-kept secret a hugely sought after background vocalist and songwriter on the path to this highly anticipated solo record. But for all the attention being lavished on Stapleton for bringing a little outlaw flavour back to a genre with a bad bro-country hangover, the 37-year-old is as down-to-earth as anything. He spoke with the Post's Sarah Boesveld the day after his album's release party earlier this week.

Q: Traveller is the seventh biggest seller on iTunes right now in Canada and fourth in the U.S. which is incredible for a debut album, let alone a country record. Has it been a kind of surreal week?

A: Yeah, well it's really kinda shocking to me. I always hope for the best when you put something out, but certainly this has exceeded any expectation I would have had for how we would have been doing sales-wise. But it's good to see that people are liking the record.

Q: It's being hailed as a saving grace for the genre, like people have been hungry for the kind of record you made here soulful and gritty and outlaw, I guess is the term used.

A: You know, I just try to make the best music that I can. People are going to label it whatever they're

going to label it. I read an interview with (ZZ Top guitarist) Billy Gibbons one time when he just said he always tried to make records that he would like to buy. I think that's one of the best standards for recording music that anybody could have. I think any other standard wouldn't be regardless of the results, good or bad it just wouldn't feel right and wouldn't be authentic to whoever you are.

Q: While this is your first solo record, country listeners have heard your work for a long time you've stripped down Whiskey and You for this record, which Tim McGraw first cut. It reminds me of Brandy Clark's debut, which was so well received. Do you think there's a greater desire now to hear directly from the songwriters?

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A: I don't really know. I can only do things that hopefully I think are good. If there's a market for it, great.

Q: That's refreshing to hear, too, because Nashville often gets painted as a songwriting machine.

A: I think Nashville's a whole lot more than that. I think Nashville, as a town, has been discounted for that. But you can go to any town and find examples of things that are, you know, factory made or whatever you want to call it. Hopefully somewhere in the middle of all the commerce, there's some room to be artful too. I like things that don't sound particularly processed or mechanical or made by machines. I like music that contains human elements, with all their flaws. There's air in it, and you can hear a room of a bunch of guys playing. Those are the magic parts. You listen to a Ray Charles record a bunch of guys in a room, Ray goes for a note and misses it and cracks up at himself just laughing because he missed it.

Q: You cut your teeth in bands, fronting the Grammy-nominated bluegrass band The Steeldrivers and then The Jompson Brothers, a rock act. How did that experience inform your solo record?

A: I've always been a fan of bands, and I still tried to make this record with very much a band mentality. The record belongs to those players as much as it belongs to anybody else. It's important to me that the guys playing the songs believe in what they're playing in. You want to inspire people you're playing with and you want to be inspired by them and it's important to seek that out whatever musical situation you're in. Or just in life in general. Everybody wants to be around somebody who it feels like makes them better.

Q: Your wife, Morgane Stapleton, lends such a beautiful, complementary set of harmonies on this record. I read that she bought

you a jeep that kind of kick-started a road trip that would eventually lead to Traveller.

A: I lost my daddy and I had a single die on the radio around the same time. I needed a little head clearing space and my wife, who's a lot better at knowing what I need than I do, I always used to be into old cars and I hadn't had one since she'd known me. I found this old jeep out in Arizona and she bought it for me. We flew out there and drove it back to Nashville across the country and along the way and kind of reboot and thought 'what's the next move?' kind of head-clearing space. I wrote the song 'Traveller' along the way. We didn't know what the trip was for, we just felt like we needed to go do that and so we did. I think it's important to listen to that part of yourself, even when it doesn't make sense to anybody else.

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he Route 23 Cultural Heritage TNetwork (CHN) is a 501c3 organization dedicated to preserving the local history and culture of Johnson and surrounding counties. CHN supports programs which share their mission and values.

One of the organizations under the CHN umbrella is the OSCAR, Oil Springs Cultural Arts and Recreation Center. The OSCAR is located in Oil Springs in a building which has served as both a high school and an elementary school for the community. Today, the center serves as a regional arts education and cultural heritage center. It has two artisan studios where area artisans can teach and participate in many classes, including spinning, weaving, quilting, pottery, woodcarving, painting, heritage art, recycled art, dance, music and drama.

OSCAR provides the public an opportunity to view and purchase products made exclusively by these local artisans.

The mural-decorated "Medina Garden" cafe is available to book for numerous types of parties and gatherings.

The public is invited to participate in special activities and workshops held at various times throughout the year and visitors are always welcome.

Another CHN supported project is The Story Patch, a community theater project which weaves local history into entertaining live performances. The acts feature a series of true stories that have been handed down in Johnson County for generations. Each year, different stories are presented and new ones submitted for the next season. The committee says, There is no limit on the kind of stories we will seek out and collect, whether it be tear-jerkin' sad or knee-slappin' funny. The Story Patch series has become an annual September event.

Some other programs that work with CHN are the Culinary Arts program which focuses on locally produced food Kentucky Proud and Appalachian

Proud, and the Kentucky Heritage Collection featuring locally produced artisan products. Brenda Cockerham, advisor to the CHN organization said, The most exciting thing to me is that we are merging all of these programs into experiences for tour groups. You can book one of our participating venues, have a Kentucky Proud Meal, and enjoy entertainment or even experience the arts in a variety of ways. For example, tour groups from all over the nation have enjoyed the OSCAR. One group has been coming back for the past 6 years.

Each project is managed by separate volunteer groups who received their start through the Johnson County Cooperative Extension Family and Consumer Sciences program but now each stands on its own. Cockerham said there are more projects that may be converted under the CHN management, and the invitation is out there for other counties to utilize the organization as well. To learn more call 606-789-8108.

Where artists come to play

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he Mountain Arts Center is located Tin Prestonsburg right off US 23 Country Music Highway. The facility offers a wide range of musical genres -- bluegrass, gospel, rock and, of course, country. It is also the home of the Kentucky Opry, a showcase of the area's emerging and established talent.

The Opry's singers and musicians blend country, bluegrass, gospel and pop music with dazzling lights, costumes and mountain humor to entertain the entire family.The beautiful facility houses a 1,050 seat theater, several large meeting rooms, a commercial recording/video

editing studio, and an art gallery. The MAC has established a reputation throughout a five-state area for presenting the best family entertainment north of Nashville. In addition to musical performances, the facility has staged outstanding theater presentations.

Its Show Time!

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he Historic Sipp Theatre, located on Main Street in TPaintsville, was constructed in 1931 and opened in January 1932 as Paintsville's first "talkie." It has operated since that time as a combination movie/concert venue, and is the only regional facility of its era still functioning in its original capacity. Designed to allow a mere whisper at center stage to be heard at the back of the balcony, the Sipp's unique design is relevant even today.

In 1994, with the structure in poor condition and in danger of closing, the Belhausen family established the Sipp Theatre Foundation to fund restorations to the aging building. Because of its unique place in the entertainment and social history of eastern Kentucky, the Sipp Theatre Foundation hoped to rescue the old theatre from the wrecking ball and to restore it to its original mission and purpose. The restoration began in May 1994 and was completed to the point where the Sipp could re-open as a movie house in July of the same year.

Since that time, the theatre has been purchased by the City of Paintsville and has undergone many renovations. Funded through revenue produced through donations and shows, more work, such as new seating and aisle carpeting, is planned. Supporters of the Sipp feel it is important to pass down the tradition of attending local theatre and strive to keep audiences coming to the historical Sipp.

The Main Street Players present several productions each year on the Sipp stage and also offer local youth the opportunity to perform with them. The Players also perform original and historical dramas, such as a play on the life of John C. C. Mayo. Performances for visiting groups can be scheduled through Paintsville Tourism.

ince 1964, summer Snights have been magical under the stars at the Jenny Wiley Amphitheatre on the grounds of Jenny Wiley State Park in Prestonsburg. In 2014, with the opening of an indoor venue, Jenny Wiley Mainstage in Pikeville, the company became eastern Kentucky's only professional theatre offering year round productions.

JWT's presentations of classic Broadway musicals, comedies, historical dramas and holiday productions have kept theatre-goers entertained for over 50 years. The theater's first musical was South Pacific performed in the summer of 1965. Many alumni later achieved success in television, film and national theater, including Nettie Fowler in the original Broadway cast of Carousel, Sharon Lawrence from ABC's Blue's Jeff Silbar composer of "The Wind Beneath my Wings," and Paige Davis, host of TLC's Trading Spaces.

Jenny Wiley Theatre also provides opportunities for local up-and-coming young performers. After an amazing enrollment in the theatre's first Footlights Youth Theatre Camps, three productions featuring aspiring young actors will be presented in the summer of 2015. The workshops focus on honing acting skills, individual and group expression, creativity and storytelling, and will be taught by professional actors.

For more information go to www.jennywiley.org.

The Sipp Theatre Jenny Wiley Theatre

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hen Senator Rand Paul launched his presidential Wcampaign on April 7,

2015, some of the news coverage was unexpected. A front page headline on Yahoo! News read, Marlana VanHoose: The 18 year old singing powerhouse who stole Rand Paul's show. The Huffington Post reported, She absolutely brought the house down like a Grammy-award winning superstar.

Even before she finished belting out her powerful rendition of our National Anthem, Twitter was buzzing with tweets like, I have chills from this talented little girl who's singing the national anthem at Rand Paul's announcement. That was followed by a stream of tweets

including, Holy Cow that was amazing.

This was by no means the first time Johnson County native Marlana VanHoose heard a crowd erupt in cheers. In fact, she heard thunderous applause the previous afternoon when she sang for a record crowd at the Great American Ballpark for the Cincinnati Reds opening day. A few days earlier it was reported that she blew the crowd away at an NBA game at Quicken Loan Arena where the Cleveland Cavaliers were playing the Miami Heat. For the past two summers she sang before some NASCAR Sprint Cup races in front of crowds exceeding 107,000.

Marlana said she doesn't get nervous about singing in front of so many

people because she can't see them -- she only hears them and she loves it when crowds are loud and proud.

Marlana was born blind and later diagnosed with cerebral palsy but her love of music, awesome talent and Christian faith have overpowered her limitations. Her musical talent became apparent at an early age when she would hum songs before she could talk. She began playing piano when she was just two years old.

IN 2013, Marlana was featured in a CBS evening news story where Jim Axlerod asked, Do you ever feel like it's too much the challenges that have been put in your lap? Marlana replied, Too much? Well, not way too much.

Marlana VanHoose

Star Spangled Talent

By Rhonda Kretzer

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team, Kentucky guard Kastine Evans said, We just really take pride in that she's part of our family. She's part of the Big Blue Nation. At that time the team was 4 and 0 when Marlana sang. Coach Mitchell said, I think she gets everybody charged up. I don't think there's any doubt about it. It's inspiring.

If you've never had an opportunity to hear Marlana sing, you can listen to what the fuss is all about on YouTube. Numerous videos have been posted there since the UK hoops performance went viral. You can

In 2012, Marlana was invited to sing the National Anthem at a University of Kentucky women's basketball game. Afterward UK Women's coach Matthew Mitchell said, It was the best performance we've ever had here in Memorial Coliseum. A video of that performance went viral on YouTube.

In 2014, ESPN produced a video about her and her relationship with the team. Basketball in my case means the crowd, cheerleaders, Marlana said. Sometimes their shoes squeak. In speaking for her

hear her sing gospel at Kentucky's Renfro Valley, blues at the Waterfront Blues Festival in Portland, Oregon, or classic rock on Tim Farmer's Homemade Jam show on KET. You can hear her sing My Old Kentucky Home at a Special Olympics ceremony or God Bless America at a Reds game. But to discover what audiences at NBA games, NASCAR races, and college sporting events across the country already know, listen to her sing the Star Spangled Banner. She's awesome.

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If you enjoy new and unique ways to spend your leisure time, Johnson County is a great destination. Whether it's challenging hiking trails, hunting, fishing, water sports, or a round of golf on one of the first 18-hole courses in the mountains, you'll find it here. From Dawkins Trail to the Country Music Highway, Johnson County offers a wide variety of activities to satisfy your adventuring spirit. I encourage each of you to get out and enjoy all of the beauty and adventure Johnson County has to offer!

Senator Brandon Smith

BrandonSmith STATE SENATORPAID FOR BY BRANDON SMITH

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By Melissa CornettPhotographs by Jo Ann Harvey

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hether you prefer to lace up Wyour hiking boots or explore all that nature has to offer on a bicycle or horseback, a trip to Kentucky's largest multi-use rail trail is a perfect way to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Appalachian foothills that make up Johnson and its surrounding counties.

Called "one of the greatest recycling projects in our country by Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear, the Dawkins Line Rail Trail was once a booming coal-hauling railroad line owned by the R.J. Corman Equipment Company that has been transformed into one of the highlights of eastern Kentucky's growing adventure tourism industry.

Opened in June 2013, the Dawkins Line Rail Trail is currently 18 miles long and runs from Hager Hill in Johnson County to Royalton in Magoffin County.

The state provided $3.5 million for acquiring, planning and building the first section of the Dawkins Line Rail Trail. Gov. Steve Beshear announced a $1.47 million contract in September 2014 for the next section, which is tentatively set for completion this spring. Most of the overall funding is coming from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. The trail will be managed by the Kentucky Department of Parks when it's finished.

There are 24 scenic trestles along the first 18-mile stretch of the planned 36-mile trail. The trail features a mild grade allowing visitors of all fitness levels to enjoy the many unique sights along the rail trail, including the 662-foot-long Gun Creek Tunnel, an old railroad tunnel constructed of massive wooden beams.

The trail is very pretty and just breathtaking in spots, and the great thing is you don't have to be a marathon runner or a mountain bike extremist to enjoy it, says Paintsville Tourism Executive Director Tia Fletcher-Campbell. There really is something to appeal to everyone.

From the honeysuckle that climbs old railroad ties, bubbling streams, waterfalls and open meadows dotted with wildlife including deer and even the occasional elk,to historical coal structures and rustic tunnels, the trail gives visitors a view of eastern Kentucky's striking Appalachian region, home to the highest biodiversity in North America.

Prestonsburg attorney Jo Ann Harvey, an avid bicyclist, says she rides the section between Hager Hill and Royalton several times a week when the weather allows.

"I think it's a terrific asset for the area," Harvey says. "It's beautiful and you don't have cars to contend

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with. You can do a long, hard bike ride or an easy ride; get out on your horse; or just walk for exercise. It's great for kids and families. I can't wait for the whole thing to be completed."

Ultimately, plans call for the trail to continue through the Tiptop Tunnel and wind up at Evanston, a former

of the 1,557-foot Carver Tunnel, which suffered heavy damage from a fire, could take approximately 6-8 months from the contractor start date.

The Dawkins Line is modeled after another successful rails-to-trails project of 34 miles in southwest Virginia called The Virginia Creeper Trail. The trail in Virginia attracts over 200,000 visitors a year and has led to new businesses with a positive economic impact.

Fletcher-Campbell says the Dawkins Line Rail Trail has already boosted interest to the area, noting that the trail draws visitors from near and far who come to give the trail a whirl, and ultimately seek out other area attractions while in town.

Most folks come to Paintsville to experience the Dawkins Line Trail over a few days which allows them to ride one half each day, take a break, learn more about the rich

coal camp in Breathitt County. It would form Kentucky's longest rail-to-trail project, offering a continuous 36-mile stretch free of vehicular traffic, taking visitors past rural homes and remote areas with beautiful scenery. Long-term plans also call for expanding the trail to feature water trails.

According to Jackie Jones with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Phase II of the trail, which includes construction of the trailheads at Royalton and the one near Hager Hill, as well as the construction of a trail from approximately mile point 18 to mile point 24, is currently under construction with an anticipated completion date of May 30th.

Phase III of the trail, from the south portal of Carver Tunnel (approximately mile point 26) to the end (mile point 36) could be completed by late November. Plans also in place for the rehabilitation

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history of our town, and visit notable attractions, she says, noting organized events are held each weekend to offer visitors plenty to see and do while in the area.

In fact, it is this type of interest that has Paintsville on the fast track to becoming a Certified Kentucky Trail Town. In order for Paintsville and Salyersville to become Kentucky Trail Towns, they must be connected directly by trail to the Dawkins. For

Salyersville, an approximately four-mile long connector trail has been engineered into the road plan for the Mountain Parkway four-lane extension project. Kentucky Trail Towns see a boost in tourism development by providing outdoor adventure seekers connections to land and water trails as well the opportunity to shop, take in theatrical and musical performances, purchase Kentucky crafted souvenirs, stay overnight and visit other area attractions.

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Friends meet up at Royalton Cyclery

he first sign of economic Tdevelopment spawned by the Dawkins Trail is the bicycle shop that opened last fall in Royalton. Already a favorite meeting place for friends using the trail, Royalton Cyclery is a hot spot for cyclists wanting to rent or buy bicycles or just to take a break in the coffee and snack shop.

The shop is headquartered in the former Royalton Post Office near the junction of Routes 7 and 867. Owner Don Fields said he chose that location because it sits at the 18 mile mark, the midpoint of the trail when it's complete.

Royalton Cyclery is a satellite to Fields other business, Pro-Fitness Multisports in Prestonsburg. Pro Fitness has been popular with area fitness buffs since 1986 and has evolved into a bicycle/adventure center. Both Pro Fitness and Royalton Cyclery offer guided bike tours and shuttle service as well as information about group rides and events.

Bicycle Rentals Shuttle Service Bicycle Sales

Coffee Shop Snack Bar Guided Bike Tours

multisport1752@yahoo.comfacebook.com/dawkinsbikeshop

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stablished in 1929, the historic EPaintsville Golf Course offers a unique and challenging experience for the novice to the most skilled golfer. A true Kentucky original, it was one of the first 18-hole golf courses in Eastern Kentucky. The course architect was the late Dr. Paul B. Hall, a member of the Kentucky Golf Association Hall of Fame. The land for the course was also donated by Dr. Hall.

The front nine is hilly with rolling fairways and several elevation changes, offering a variety of shots. The back nine is level but proves to be quite a challenge with two lakes and the Big Sandy River weaving through. Two holes on the back

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nine (#10 and #17) require tee shots to carry over the river. At that point, golfers face the challenge of crossing a narrow cable suspension bridge just wide enough to accommodate a golf cart. The swinging bridge is part of the intrigue of the challenging course. The natural beauty of the area only adds to the golfing experience.

The Paintsville Golf Course is situated conveniently between Paintsville Lake State Park and Jenny Wiley State Park and is just minutes off the US23 Country Music Highway.

The Paintsville Golf Course Clubhouse has been an intriguing and delightful location for gatherings since it formally opened on November 24, 1939. The original structure was built by the

WPA from rock transported from nearby Route 40. The clubhouse has hosted events honoring governors, senators, congressmen, college presidents and distinguished athletes and coaches. The banquet facilities are available

for parties, receptions and weddings. Anytime is a good time to stop by and view the front side of the golf course and the eighteenth hole from the dual level porch. The scenery is exceptional.

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By Rhonda KretzerPhotos Courtesy University of Kentucky

hen high school sports are discussed in Johnson County, Wbragging rights usually center around basketball, football or baseball. But one young lady from Paintsville has repeatedly turned the conversation to golf.

Alessandra Walker, best known as Ale (pronounced Allie,) started playing golf at the age of 13. While a student at Paintsville Independent Schools, she was a five-time State Tournament qualifier, named to the 2009-2011 All-Area Teams and was the 2011 Player of the Year. Ale was the individual champion at the Madisonville Invitational in 2011 and, in 2012, was the first woman to compete in the Paintsville Invitational, placing third. She won back to back All-A Regional championships from 2010 to 2012. A highlight of her high school career was winning the All-A State High School Championship in a three hole sudden death playoff.

As if her golfing accomplishments weren't enough to showcase her athletic prowess, she also lettered in soccer and softball. She achieved academic success at Paintsville High School too and was president of her senior class in 2013. She remains close friends with many of her classmates.

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Ale's junior golf career extends far beyond Kentucky High School Athletics. She said, Two of the biggest moments in my sports life were winning my first AJGA (American Junior Golf Association) event and qualifying for the US Women's Amateur.

The U.S. Women's Amateur is the leading golf tournament in the United States for female amateur golfers. Organized by the United States Golf Association, female amateurs from all nations are eligible to compete and there are no age restrictions.

Qualifying for my first US Amateur was an amazing experience! A very dramatic qualifier to say the least. I qualified at Walnut Grove Country Club in Dayton, Ohio. I had to get up and down on 17 from the bunker and birdie my last hole on 18 to qualify. I was able to do it and avoid an eleven girl playoff for the invitation to play in New York. It was pretty exciting. The US Amateur was played at Nassau Country Club on Long Island.

In following her passion for golf, Ale travels extensively and plays on some of the nation's most celebrated courses. When asked about her favorite, she said, The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia means so much to me. It is one of my favorite places in the world and my parents have taken me there since I was a little girl. I took my first golf lesson there. That's where I won my first big AJGA event and that's where I committed to play golf for the University of Kentucky. It is just so special to me in so many ways.

Ale competed in all 10 tournaments as a freshman for the Kentucky Wildcats, owning a 76.43 stroke average. She turned in her best 54-hole score at the UCF Challenge with a 221 (71-75-75). She tied for 20th at the "MO"Morial Invitational with a three-day score of 224 (75-77-72).

Ale finished her first year at UK with a 3.679 GPA and was placed on the UK Athletic Directors Honor Roll and the 2014 SEC First Year Academic Honor Roll. She was appointed to the All American Scholars Team by the Womens Golf Coaches Association. A University of Kentucky press release said, The criteria for this

prestigious honor are some of the most stringent in all of college athletics, including a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.50.

Ale's parents are Butch and Kathy Walker and she has an older brother, Bryan. Now a sophomore at UK, she says she is amazed at the support she gets from her hometown. It means so much to me, especially when people travel hours to watch me play. I think it is just awesome. It attests to how special the Paintsville people are and how much they truly care. I couldn't be more proud to represent my hometown at the University of Kentucky and at the next level. I feel truly blessed.

I couldn't be more proud to represent my hometown at the University of Kentucky and at

the next level.

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aintsville Lake State Park, in PStaffordsville, is 3 miles west of Paintsville. Created by the Corps of Engineers and opened to the public in May 1984, Paintsville Lake is 26 miles long and more than 100 feet deep in some places. Steep cliffs and wooded coves border the lake shoreline offering over 1,000 acres for boating, skiing, and fishing. Anglers will find excellent opportunities to cast for walleye, bass, trout, and crappie.

The full service marina offers docking and launching facilities, a fishing pier, rental houseboats, pontoons, fishing boats, and other marine and fishing supplies. The marina restaurant, Floaters, is a great place for relaxed waterfront dining.

After a day on the lake, visitors can relax at the campground which features 32 developed sites with restrooms, showers, laundry and sewer hookups. Ten primitive sites have terraced pads for tents. Two RV sites are adapted for the disabled, and pets are allowed at all, if restrained. All campsites have a picnic table, a campfire ring and a lantern post. The area also has two playgrounds, a sand volleyball court, basketball court and horseshoe pits.

Two lakeside pavilions and two shelters can be reserved in advance. One pavilion and both shelters have electricity and water.

Paintsville Lake State Parkhe spectacular beauty of TPaintsville Lake and the

surrounding lush foliage can be enjoyed from the Kiwanis Walking Trail.

Built and maintained by the Paintsville Kiwanis Club in cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the 1.5- to 2.5-mile Kiwanis Walking Trail is across from the Mountain Homeplace. It offers an easy-to-moderate walk around Paintsville Lake in a wooded setting.

Walkers have the opportunity for a glimpse of wildlife while getting exercise. There are several resting areas throughout the well-marked footpath where walkers can sit for a spell and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. The Kiwanis Trail is open from daytime to dark.

Kiwanis Trail

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ittle Mud Lick Falls at Staffordsville can only be reached via a footpath but Lit's worth lacing up your hiking boots during the rainy season when the falls are flowing. The falls also create a beautiful scene when frozen over during winter.

Little Mud Lick Falls is within 75 feet of the cave or rock house from which local legend Jenny Wiley escaped from her Native American captors in the spring of 1790. Her path to freedom, now called the Jenny Wiley Trail, can be traveled by foot through Johnson, Floyd, Elliot, Carter and Boyd counties. Wiley's gravesite is near the small Johnson County community of River where she spent her final years. The landmark provides an interesting excursion for those seeking their roots or those just wishing to catch a glimpse of our past.

Little Mud Lick Falls

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Dr. G. Devin Stephenson and wife, Judy, the new President and First Lady of BSCTC.

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Meet the President

Dr. Stephenson, a native of Sumiton, Alabama, became the second president of Big Sandy Community and Technical College (BSCTC) in June 2015. He came to the college after serving as president/CEO of Three Rivers College in Missouri from 2009-2014.

Big Sandy Community and Technical College is uniquely positioned to be a thriving part of the economic and community development happening across the region, said Dr. Stephenson. We want the college to be the first choice when it comes to higher education, technical

education, and workforce and community education.

Dr. Stephenson said there were parallels that drew him to the Big Sandy region. He is from a small coal mining community that has experienced some of the same economic hardships. He said

By Joshua L. BallPassion for the possible. That's the mantra Dr. G. Devin Stephenson has adopted in his 40 years of experience in higher education.

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economic and workforce development is most efficiently achieved on a regional level, and believes BSCTC should be a leader in such efforts.

Economic developers are now focused on bringing jobs to the region and I see the community

college's role as the facilitator of that process. We have the expertise to assess workers' proficiencies, narrow the skills gap, create work-ready communities, and lock arms with the many partners who play a vital role in positioning the region for growth and recruiting jobs that will be required of an ever changing workplace, said Dr. Stephenson.We have our work cut out for us, but if we condition ourselves to change and if we are dedicated to becoming and staying relevant, Big Sandy Community and Technical College can and will play the primary role in making things happen to secure the region's future. Our success will be determined by

how we partner with economic developers, respond to changing educational needs, and provide innovative delivery systems.

At the end of the day, it is about student success for Dr. Stephenson. It's about seeing a graduate walk across the stage at graduation, each journey different, but to a common destination a point of success.

The smile on their faces, the gleam in their eyes, and the loud shouts of affirmation from family and friends are strong indicators that each student has successfully completed a journey that was filled with joy, struggle, fulfillment, trials and accomplishment, he said.

It's about seeing a graduate walk across the stage at graduation, each journey

different, but to a common destination a point of success.

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Equally as significant are the stories for first jobs, transfer success and career milestones.

Student success, in my opinion, forces all the rewards, and recognitions that I personally have realized to fade into the background. It isn't about me it is about 'we' the college personnel, the students, and the thousands of citizens who stand behind us and advocate for our goal of helping students achieve their dreams, he explained.

Dr. Stephenson believes community colleges are becoming the relevant sector of higher education and with that recognition comes much responsibility. He wants BSCTC to become a college of opportunity; a college of hope; and the college of dreams.

Big Sandy Community and Technical College has tremendous growth potential; however, it will require that we approach our future work with a dedication to excellence, a commitment to changing to meet the demands of a global economy, and with the clear understanding that we cannot exist as an island and expect to be successful, he said. I see the college as a change agent a vibrant, dynamic community of learners dedicated to engaging with every organization, entity, and consortium possible for the purpose of opening doors of opportunity.

What will BSCTC look like in 2020? Stephenson unequivocally sees a college on the move and a powerful regional stakeholder in economic and workforce development.

I see new and upgraded facilities and programs, increased enrollment, a robust external grant development initiative, and an institution that is characterized as a one that is fulfilling its mission and 'making a difference' for the entire eastern Kentucky region, he said.

It's not all about work for Dr. Stephenson. He is a classical pianist and plans to join the Big Sandy Singers and Band from time to time.

Music is a great vehicle to unite diverse talents. It is the language of the soul and the universal language, he continued. I would also like to do

some recording projects and take the proceeds from the sale of CD's to endow a scholarship for students with a demonstrated financial need.

Dr. Stephenson and his wife, Judy, are also cyclists. They look forward to taking advantage of the Dawkins Line rails to trails project.

Judy and I will certainly be taking advantage of the Dawkins Line Trail, as well as other venues, and we look forward to the possibility of having other personnel join us for the rides, he said. Creating healthy lifestyles while at the same time providing a stage for people to communicate and interact is important to us and we intend to ride these trails for years to come.

Dr. Stephenson is a community college graduate. He earned an associate degree in science from Walker Junior College, followed by a bachelor of arts degree in business administration from Birmingham-Southern College and both master's and doctoral degrees in the administration of higher education from the University of Alabama.

Dr. Stephenson and his wife, Judy, reside in Paintsville. They have two adult children, Jon Stephenson and JuliAnne Stephenson.

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Mayos Mark

he Mayo campus of Big Sandy TCommunity and Technical College (BSCTC) is the crown jewel of technical education facilities in the United States.

Still, some 75 years later, theres been a lot of change, but the commitment to student access and success very much remains the same.

In 2003, Mayo Technical School consolidated with Prestonsburg Community College to form Big Sandy Community and Technical College. Through House Bill 1, the creation of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS) paved the way for a comprehensive and unified approach to higher education.

BSCTC is the leading provider of post-secondary education and workforce education and training in the Big Sandy region with an enrollment of more than 4,700 students. The college offers 27 programs and more than 200 industry-leading credentials.

The Mayo campus serves as a hub for technical education training. Opened in 1938 through a state appropriation of $56,000 signed by Governor A.B. Happy Chandler, the school was initially formed to help the United States train communications specialists for World War II.

It evolved into the envy of educational facilities in the United States.

By the early 1950s and 1960s, the economic boom associated with the end of the war, coupled with global competition from the Soviet Union, brought vocational education at the

Martez Mackey, a student in the masonry program at Big Sandy Community and Technical College, was part of a team of students and instructors that helped construct the Mayo Park in Paintsville.

Martez Mackey, a student in the masonry program at Big Sandy Community and Technical College, was part of a team of students and instructors that helped construct the Mayo Park in Paintsville.

Big Sandy Community and Technical Colleges Mayo campus established the nations blueprint towards technical educationBy Joshua Ball

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forefront of the national conversation. The late George Ramey, the director of the Mayo State Vocational School, spearheaded efforts to streamline technical education across the nation. As a close advisor to Congressman Carl D. Perkins, Ramey and Perkins worked with President John F. Kennedys administration to craft legislation that

would build workforce and education efforts then and for years to come.

One of the first pieces of legislation passed by President Lyndon B. Johnson following the death of President Kennedy was the Vocational Education Act of 1963, which is often referred to as the Perkins Act. The American

Vocational Association called the act the most comprehensive vocational education measure that had ever become law.

Today, Big Sandy Community and Technical College still benefits from the Perkins Act.

Bobby McCool, chief institutional officer, said the Perkins Act allows institutions of higher learning to stay at the forefront of technical education and workforce development.

The funding provided by the Perkins Act has allowed us to be responsive to the economic trends of Eastern Kentucky, said McCool. Weve been able to work closely with our natural resource industries. This enabled companies to have access to a highly-skilled workforce and continuing education opportunities for employees.

Through the work of BSCTCs Workforce Solutions program, business and industry have access to anytime,

David Goode, 48, of East Point, lost his job as a coal miner in 2012. He enrolled at Big Sandy Community and Technical College (BSCTC) in January 2013 to study Electrical Technology.

I was looking for a career that did not rely on the booms and busts of market conditions, said Goode. I knew furthering my education would provide me with the tools to weather the storms of life.

Through the help of the HOME (Helping Our Miners Ever yday) program administered by the Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment Program, Inc. (EKCEP), Goode was able to get financial assistance and pursue a new trade.

After one semester, he applied for a position at AT&T and was hired shortly thereafter as a technician.

On the side of my van, it says 'Rethink Possible,' he said. That was made possible by going to BSCTC.

Georgetta Preece is a student in the Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program at Big Sandy Community and Technical Colleges Mayo campus in Paintsville.

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anyplace customized training that provides employees world-class, transferable skills that improve productivity and employability.

Kelli Hall, director of Workforce Solutions at BSCTC, said the college is devoted to establishing dialogue with business and industry partners.

We take great pride in providing our partners effective and industry-leading

training opportunities that will keep people working and companies thriving in the Big Sandy region, said Hall.

In 2014, the colleges Workforce Solutions department served 4,305 people and more than 100 businesses.

Providing access to higher education and workforce training remains a

cornerstone of BSCTCs mission. Since 2008, more than 21,000 first-generation college students have enrolled in classes. During that time, the college has experienced unprecedented growth in degrees conferred (64 percent) and credentials awarded (140 percent).

Through the work of the Big Sandy College Educational Foundation, Inc. and the Office of Institutional Advancement, the college awards more than $350,000 annually in scholarships to deserving students.

Today, the Mayo campus is a landmark in the Paintsville community. The campus has undergone more than $7 million in renovations, and in 2013, BSCTC opened the Mayo Park, a sprawling greenspace. The park was constructed after Building B, built in 1955, was razed. It features a gazebo, pergola, manicured gardens, picnic tables, benches and swings. Additionally, the park demonstrates the colleges commitment to sustainability as the benches and swings were made of recycled plastic.

Big Sandy Community and Technical College Enrollment (2013-2014): 4,939Campuses: Paintsville (Mayo), Hager Hill, Prestonsburg and Pikeville

LeadershipDr. Devin Stephenson, PresidentDr. Nancy B. Johnson, ProvostBobby McCool, Chief Institutional OfficerMichelle Meek, Chief Business Affairs OfficerJohn Herald, Director of FacilitiesJohn Dove, Dean of Administrative ServicesJoshua Ball, Director of College Relations

Workforce SolutionsKelli Hall, Director of Workforce Solutions(606) 788-2946 | kelli.hall@kctcs.edu

Programs of StudyAssociate in ArtsAssociate in ScienceAir Conditioning TechnologyAutomotive TechnologyBusiness Studies - Business Administration SystemsBusiness Studies - Medical Information TechnologyCivil Engineering TechnologyCollision Repair TechnologyComputer-Aided Drafting and DesignConstruction TechnologyCosmetologyCriminal JusticeDental Assisting and Dental Hygiene Integrated ProgramDiesel TechnologyGeneral Occupational/Technical StudiesHuman ServicesComputer and Information TechnologyMasonryManufacturing Engineering Technology - Electrical TechnologyManufacturing Engineering Technology - Engineering and Electronics TechnologyManufacturing Engineering Technology - Industrial MaintenanceNursing (Associate Degree Nursing and Licensed Practical Nurse)Respiratory CareSurveying and Mapping TechnologyVisual Communication - Design and TechnologyWelding Technology

HIGHER EDUCATION BEGINS HERE

Student Kellby Slone programs a servo motor drive with the help of Assistant Professor Charles Vanhoose on the Mayo campus of Big Sandy Community and Technical College. The campus features state-of-the-art technology that allows students to be among the most employable in the nation.

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he East Kentucky Science Center in TPrestonsburg is a highlight in science education for students and the general public of Eastern Kentucky, and visitors from other areas.

Opened in 2004 on the campus of Big Sandy Community and Technical College, The East Kentucky Science Center includes a state of the art planetarium, a large exhibit area, a multi-purpose classroom, and a gift shop.

The Planetarium has a GOTO Chronos Spaceflight Simulator star projector, one of only 16 in the world; a Spitz SciDome HD projection system, one of only 24 in the world; and a SkyLase Laser system, one of only 23 in the world. This combination of equipment makes the planetarium one of the most technologically advanced planetariums in the United States.

Planetarium programs cover a variety of topics such as the current night sky, planets, space flight, and telescopes, while the laser shows contain music from a wide variety of musical areas. The sound system is one of the most powerful in the state of Kentucky.

While school groups visit the Science Center during weekday mornings, there is a schedule of public programs during the afternoons and on Saturdays. The exhibit hall is used to showcase exhibits from other science

centers and also displays relating to different areas of science. Evening laser shows and astronomical observ-ing sessions are held during the year.

The EKSC is a NASA Space Place, and has NASA TV in the exhibit hall showing information about Astronomy, space flight, and live feeds from the International Space Station. It is also a member of NISE Net. The Nanoscale Informal Science Education Network is a national community of researchers and informal science educators dedicated to fostering public aware-ness, engagement, and understanding of nanoscale science, engineering, and technology.

The East Kentucky Science Center currently has 15 planetarium shows, 40 classroom and outreach programs, and 29 laser shows, with new lessons and programs added yearly.

The Science Center offers several program options to student groups when they visit any or all of its attractions and also offers a series of outreach programs in which staff makes presentations to area schools on topics such as Astronomy, Physics, Electricity, and Biology. Presentations about the Solar System and the History of Space Flight are also available to civic organizations.

Science summer camp programs are held every year for youth, and its regional science fair every Fall draws students from approximately twenty different schools annually that com-pete for trophies and monetary prizes.

The East Kentucky Science Center is a member of ASTC; the Association of Science- Technology Centers. A membership with the Science Center gives members free admission to over 300 science centers in the world.

ucked away in the hills of Eastern TKentucky, the Paintsville Independent School District provides a quality educational experience for its students. Paintsville Independent, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, offers a modern curriculum with a traditional approach. According to Coy D. Samons, Paintsville Independent Superintendent, The mission of Paintsville Independent Schools is to assure that all students acquire knowledge and skills enabling them to become productive members of a global society.

Quality leadership from administration and highly qualified teachers create a recipe for success and high student achievement in the district. As we continue to review state and national testing data, once again, results reveal Paintsville Schools are among some of the best public schools in the country. This is a distinction that should be

celebrated by our constituents, stated Samons.

The academic excellence of Paintsville Schools is manifest in the national and state testing data based upon the 2013-14 school year. The current senior class at Paintsville High School propelled the district to a 3rd place ranking within the state with a composite score of 22.2 on the ACT, which is administered nationwide and considered the predominant college entrance exam in 25 states.

At the state level,both the high school and elementary school continue to experience success on annual assessment. For 2013-14, the Kentucky Department of Education classified Paintsville High School as a Distinguished/Progressing High School and was labeled as a High School of Distinction, which indicates the school soared into the 97th percentile and scored in the top 5% of all high schools

on the Unbridled Learning state accountability model. Paintsville Elementary scored in the 77th percentile on the Unbridled Learningstate accountability assessment and was recognized as a Proficient/Progressing School.

For over 125 years, Paintsville Independent Schools and the residents of the City of Paintsville have demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence and to providing quality learning experiences for students in grades K-12, stated Superintendent Samons. Clear indicators of this commitment are shown with the recent renovations and additions at our respective elementary & high school campuses. These completed projects demonstrate a desire to have our students housed in buildings capable of preparing individuals for success in the 21st Century. Always proud to be a Tiger!!!

The Standard for ExcellencePaintsville Independent SchoolsPaintsville Independent Schools

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Paintsville Independent School's Notable Academic Achievements

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Member of the Kentucky High Performing Districts Alliance22 Kentucky Governor's Scholars8 Rogers Scholars15 National Merit Award Winners4 Singletary Recipients (2 from the class of 2015)Over 96% of Graduates attend Post-Secondary Institutions2015 District Elementary Governor's Cup Champions2014 District and Regional Elementary Governor's Cup Champions10 District and Regional Elementary Governor's Cup champions10 Kentucky Colonel's 6th Grade Showcase Overall Champions 2010 Governor's Cup Middle School District and Regional Champions (Social Studies and Composition Written Assessment)80 High School State Qualifiers at Governor's Cup1 International Middle School Community Problem Solving championship2 International Individual Future Problem Solving Championships2 Science Olympiad Regional ChampionshipsP.R.I.D.E. School and Teacher of the YearC.E.D.A.R. Coal Grant Teacher of the Year

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For the 2014-15 school year, our district (along with our KY Valley Educational Cooperative partners) received the Race to the Top Grant, which included the Appalachian Renaissance Initiative. With this grant our district will receive over $150,000 to employ an administrator, outfit 2 Next Generation Classrooms, and provide our students with new cutting edge technology. This 4 year initiative will have a direct impact on student achievement within our district.PHS offers Dual Credit opportunities through Big Sandy Community and Technical College and Morehead State University.Paintsville Independent Schools partners with Big Sandy Community and Technical College to offer the Mayo Early College Academy to qualifying juniors. In the first year of this offering, eleven juniors take a full-time college course load through BSCTC and will be on course to graduate with an Associate's Degree by the end of their senior year of high school. These classes are offered free of charge to these students and the second class will be chosen in the spring of 2015.4 Teachers certified by National Board for Professional Standards.Interactive Whiteboard technology is in every elementary and high school classroom.13:1 Student to Teacher RatioHead Start Program serving 3-5 year old childrenFull day of KindergartenGifted and Talented Program, K-12A Comprehensive Special Education ProgramFree afterschool program for students K-8Collaborative effort with the City of PaintsvilleSchool Based Decision Making Councils at elementary and high schoolActive extracurricular organizations/clubs: Interact, FCLA, BETA, Junior BETA, Student Technology Leadership Program (STLP), Student Council, Academic Team, Yearbook, Pride, Pep, and FCA.

We Believe, They Achieve!

2015 Singletary Recipients and Governor's Scholars Participants

2014 Regional CEDAR Coal Fair Particpants

2014 Regional Elementary Governor's Cup Champions

2015 District Elementary Governor's Cup Champions

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or a visitor considering a move to Feastern Kentucky, one does not need to look any farther than Johnson County. One of the primary reasons that people new to the area choose to locate in this wonderful county is the fantastic education provided by the Johnson County School District.

Every parent wants to ensure academic success and a maximum array of opportunities for their children, and no district in the region or state delivers more than Johnson County. With an overall accountability rating in the 96th percentile, the Johnson County School System is designated as a Distinguished District, including a ranking among the top 15 districts in the entire state.

Every classroom in the entire district is equipped with 21st Century technology including high speed wireless connections.

Johnson Central High School is a premier learning institution in Kentucky with the largest selection of course opportunities in the whole Appalachian region. JCHS has 27 different career majors for students including opportunities in Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Information Technology, Pre-Veterinary Science, Horticulture, Accounting, Nursing, Culinary Arts, Early Childhood Education, Carpentry, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, and Telemedia. Johnson Central also has one of the top

honors programs in Kentucky with over 20 Advanced Placement and College Credit courses. JCHS offers an Early College Program with Big Sandy Community and Technical College where students can earn an Associate's Degree during their junior and senior year of high school. These unmatched academic opportunities resulted in approximately 2 million dollars of offered scholarships to our graduates last year.

JCHS is also the only school in the entire world to have earned five International Future Problem Solving Championships. In addition to this accomplishment, the JCHS Academic Team has demonstrated complete domination of area schools by winning 15 of the past 16 Regional Governor's Cup competitions and numerous top 5 finishes in state competition.

In ath