Local News

Ever a force for fiscal conservatism, Radcliff Councilwoman Barbara Baker lauded Mayor J.J. Duvall’s 2011-12 budget proposal, commending him Tuesday night for the savings he has found.

“I think this is a wonderful budget,” she said.

The $10.7 million budget passed without a battle Tuesday as Duvall declared it a solid step toward making Radcliff a premier city. The plan also includes $1.1 million in stormwater funds.

Councilman Stan Holmes was absent, but the five members present voted unanimously to support the plan without changes.

Made up of an extended family of adults and children who live in Hardin County, the newly-formed The Elijah Band stands on a foundation of tradition.

The group continues a musical ministry that has spanned years.

“This is the fourth generation,” Elijah Taylor said.

The Elijah Band is the latest incarnation of musical ministry for the family, which at one time was made up of Taylor, his parents and two sisters and went by the name The Taylor Family. The Taylor Family band was founded by Taylor's grandfather.

Optimist Park in Vine Grove resonates every Monday with sounds of a musical genre older than Kentucky’s statehood.

The weekly bluegrass music jam sessions that began in the community four years ago now can draw hundreds. They give players throughout the region a chance to weave together melodies and harmonies that can’t be accomplished alone.

Lyrics warbled Monday included “There’s a five-pound possum in my headlights tonight,” and later, “Swing low, sweet chariot.”

Councilman Ron Thomas said his concerns about the city’s $57.5 million 2011-12 budget have been quelled in the week since he challenged the plan and its use of reserve funds.

Thomas voted Monday in favor of the budget, which passed 5-0. Councilman Marty Fulkerson was absent.

The $57.5 million budget falls just under the $57.7 million plan approved last year and includes a $3.8 million deficit in the general fund that will be offset by reserves.