Cumberland County Fiscal Court

Hutson School of Agriculture recognizes alumni during Homecoming Murray State University’s Hutson School of Agriculture announced the recipients of two annual awards during Homecoming 2023. Judge/Executive Luke T. King received one of those awards, being named the 2023 Outstanding Young Agriculture Alumnus. Each year, the Hutson School of Agriculture Alumni Association selects two alumni from among many outstanding alumni to receive their most prestigious awards. This year’s award winners, Judge Luke King and Morehead University President Jay Morgan, continue a long line of successful alumni who have received these awards. The Outstanding Young Alumnus Award is given each year to someone who has made significant contributions to the agriculture industry, the Hutson School of Agriculture, Murray State, and Murray State’s Agriculture Alumni Association. Judge/Executive King, of Cumberland County, grew up on a beef cattle farm and served as a state officer for the Kentucky FFA Association from 2012-2013. King earned bachelor’s degrees in both Agriculture and Political Science ('15) at Murray State. During his time at the university, he was a member of the Ag Leadership Council, Student Government Association, Presidential Search Committee, and was named Murray State Homecoming King in 2013. During his final year at MSU, King earned the top two honors in his fields of study: the Outstanding Graduating Senior in Political Science & the Hutson School of Agriculture Outstanding Senior. In the same year, King also received the highest honor that can be given by the university when he was named the Outstanding Senior Man of Murray State University. At an early age, King discovered his combined interest in government, public service, and business. Shortly after graduating, he put his education to work and accepted a job at the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. From there, King was hired by the U.S. House of Representatives as one of the youngest Directors of Constituent Services in the United States. After working at both the state and federal levels, he returned to his hometown in Cumberland County where he was elected as KY’s second-youngest county judge/executive and Cumberland County’s youngest ever. In addition to his public service, King is a KY real estate broker and investor, auctioneer, furniture/antique store owner, and advocate for agriculture. With an ever-present attitude of gratitude, King wears many hats and enjoys helping others do the same. When asked about the award, Judge King responded “every success, title, or award received is a product of the countless hands and hearts that have guided and helped along the way. This award is not mine alone, but rather shared by everyone who made it possible and continues to do so.”

Monday’s fiscal court meeting was a special occasion where the youngest leaders in our county recognized the bravest members of our county! I am incredibly proud of the Cumberland County Civics Club for taking an interest in their community and wanting to recognize those individuals who gave us the freedom we enjoy today. To the veterans and active soldiers, thank YOU for investing in our youth and leading by example with your selfless service. We appreciate you joining us for the meeting and making it a memorable occasion!

For months, I’ve heard repeatedly how this US election will be the most important election of a generation. I agree, but for a slightly different reason than what makes a headline on this or that media outlet. I feel so privileged to have been part of public service teams at the state, federal, and now local level. I’ve watched important issues and races begin and end. I’ve experienced the feeling of being on those winning teams, and I’ve felt the defeat and pain that comes with being part of a team that falls short. Over the last decade, I’ve looked at campaigns and elections through the lens of a campaign staffer or candidate. Today, I’m looking through a different shade of glasses. Since assuming the role of Cumberland County Judge/Executive, I’ve been extremely fortunate to have spoken with hundreds of young leaders ranging from elementary school to college age. Anyone who thinks this demographic isn’t paying attention is sorely mistaken and isn’t paying attention themselves. Some of the most thoughtful and long-term questions I’ve received in 22 months have been from our youth. They are watching, listening, and making mental notes about how elected officials, parents, business leaders, and various public servants are handling the issues facing our nation. The younger generation wants to know how and why things work so that they can one day make sure the system works better. The youth doesn’t want to accept “the world just isn’t fair” as an excuse to accept things as they are. They are ambitious and have faith that positive effects can come from their hard work. I’ve learned that just because the younger generation doesn’t watch the news on tv or read a daily newspaper, doesn’t mean they aren’t consuming news elsewhere on some social media platform or even by word of mouth among peer groups. We cannot keep assuming the youth isn’t paying attention just because “paying attention” doesn’t look the same as it did 10, 20, or 40 years ago. Here's why I agree that this election is the most important of a generation. Presidential terms are for four years and then we enjoy the democratic practice of voting again. As any informed voter can tell you, a lot of good or bad can be done in a four-year term, but what’s far more lasting is the impression we – as current officials, parents, and adults – leave on our youth when they watch how we handle the campaign cycle and then election results. We can be extremely excited about the election results or we can be sorely disappointed. There’s nothing wrong with having those emotions, but we also have the incredible responsibility of handling the news with humility and dignity because the younger eyes watching us may base their future actions on ours now. If we’re all genuine in our efforts to do something for the younger generation, I cannot think of anything we can do that’s more important than being a good example for them. Thank you for doing your part to be a positive example for others. -Luke

Cumberland County Judge-Executive Luke King met with representatives from the Cumberland County Retired Teachers Association on October 24 to sign a proclamation recognizing October 21-25 as Retired Teachers' Appreciation Week in Cumberland County. The retired teachers pictured with Judge King from left to right are: Connie Cravens, Syliva Braber, Patricia Garner, Judge Luke King, Kathy King, Kelly Claywell, Vickie Anderson, and Charlotte Cash. The retired teachers of Cumberland County continue to serve their community, having reported over 7,000 community service hours for this year alone.??

PRESS RELEASE October 17, 2024 For Immediate Release The Cumberland County Civics Club met on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at the Cumberland County High School with U.S. Congressman James Comer and discussed his role in public service for the last 20+ years. Congressman Comer shared how public service has changed since he entered the field two decades ago. He also congratulated the group on their success forming the organization and for pioneering a local internship program. After speaking with the group of young leaders, Congressman Comer joined Civics Club Judge-Executive Sadie Arterburn and County Judge-Executive Luke King for a proclamation signing, recognizing October 17, 2024 as Youth in Public Service Day in Cumberland County. “One of the most rewarding parts of the judge-executive role has been watching the youth of our county grow and develop into future leaders for the entire region and state. Since the program started nearly a year ago, I’ve watched them engage with local, state, and federal officials. Congressman Comer got to see first-hand that all the compliments of this group are well-deserved,” said Judge-Executive King. "We appreciate Congressman Comer’s time and recognize how big of a deal it is for a group of youth in just one of his 34 Kentucky counties to be able to have this kind of conversation with him. All of us were pleased to show a U.S. Congressman that we’re taking our role in shaping the future very seriously,” said Civics Club Judge-Executive Sadie Arterburn. U.S. Congressman James Comer serves Kentucky’s First Congressional District and currently serves as chairman for the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Reform. ***

PRESS RELEASE September 18, 2024 For Immediate Release Judge-Executive Luke King and Civics Club Judge-Executive Sadie Arterburn gathered with cheerful clients, talented staff, and other members of the Cumberland County Civics Club at Just Family Adult Day Services in Cumberland County to sign a proclamation identifying September 16-20 as Adult Day Services Week. President Ronald Reagan first signed a national proclamation in September of 1983 and government leaders across the country continue the deserving tradition of recognizing these incredibly giving workers and their clients. “The team at Just Family in Cumberland County deserves credit and recognition far more frequently than one week out of the year. We were thrilled to honor the entire staff and visit with the clients this week. Each time I walk into Just Family, I’m greeted with energy, smiles, and an invitation to join a card game, conversation, or activity. I’m already looking forward to my next visit,” said Judge-Executive King. "As members of the younger generation, we are happy to be part of this proclamation signing and show our appreciation to all staff members and volunteers who make such a big difference in our community. We encourage our peers to visit with the team and clients at Just Family to see what a wonderful group we have here in Cumberland County,” said Civics Club Judge-Executive Sadie Arterburn. “It is our pleasure to provide services to the individuals we support which allow them to stay at home and as independent as possible. Being able to care for others in a selfless manner represents one of life’s most significant values and we are proud of our team of healthcare professionals. It is our top priority to provide a supportive, fun, and family-oriented environment to meet their social, physical, and mental needs,” said Program Director Candace Grider. Just Family Adult Day Services of Burkesville is located at 325 Keen Street, Burkesville, KY and may be reached by phone at 270-864-3481. ***

PHOTO RELEASE September 11, 2024 For Immediate Release The Cumberland County Fiscal Court and Cumberland County Civics Club met this week to sign joint proclamations in remembrance the tragic events on September 11, 2001. The full proclamation was read aloud during the September 9 court meeting. “Even though none of the current civics club members were alive 23 years ago, they still recognize the significance it continues to play in shaping our country. Equally as important is their public appreciation toward all those who responded in the weeks, months, and years after the attacks,” said Judge-Executive King. All members of the Cumberland County Fiscal Court and the Cumberland County Civics Club voted in support of the proclamation’s signing. ***

Youth from Cumberland County traveled to the Area Development District Office in Russell County on August 20 to present to the Cumberland’s Workforce Development Board about the local civics club and internship program that has been created in Cumberland County. The young leaders presented to a room of nearly 80 people, including the KY Cabinet Secretary for Education and Labor, members of the KY General Assembly, county judges, executive directors, board members, business owners, program directors, and community members. The overwhelming interest from attendees led to immediate scheduling and speaking requests throughout the region to discuss what the program entails. ? During the internship program, the youth have reviewed and compiled a list of all active county ordinances dating back to 1934, conducted an internal road audit of over 300 miles of county roads, researched and developed hundreds of questions for the county’s first-ever Cumberland County Trivia Night, conducted interviews with the Cumberland County News and WKYR, and drafted press releases, meeting agendas, and special notices. They set up for and assisted with court meetings, gave regular public updates at those meetings, created social media accounts for county boards/commissions/committees, helped with phone calls/mail/general constituent inquiries, coordinated Fourth of July activities at the park, and wrote and signed joint resolutions and proclamations with the county fiscal court. The group grew our USDA commodity food program to record numbers, visited regional splash pads and wellness centers, traveled to Frankfort and received recognition from the floor of the KY General Assembly, and traveled to DC (at no taxpayer expense) where they represented our county well in the halls of the US Congress and the US Supreme Court. They’ve met with Members of Congress, KY cabinet secretaries, a senior advisor to the governor, members of the KY General Assembly, the KY Secretary of State, President Reagan’s Economic Advisor, a former Miss America, and the CEO of the KY Fair and Expo Center.??? “Our administration saved a seat at the table for our youth and we haven’t regretted a single minute of it. The young leaders have contributed so much in the time they’ve been with us and the interest in their program is spreading rapidly. I’m glad that we’re able to help our youth prepare for their future careers, but I’m especially happy that our younger folks are helping us prepare the entire county for a bright future,” said Judge-Executive King.

PRESS RELEASE ? June 26, 2024 ? For Immediate Release ? Members of the Cumberland County Civics Club traveled to Washington, D.C. last week and represented our county well. Civics club members showed their commitment to bettering themselves and their community by preparing for months, attending court meetings, visiting Frankfort, and speaking with regional leaders on current issues. Cumberland Countians were represented in our nation’s capital at no cost to local taxpayers because each member of the civics club went on their own time and paid all expenses out of pocket.???????? ? “For anyone who believes our young leaders aren’t engaged or don’t care about public service, think again. These young people walked over 40 miles in three days, and a lot of that was in professional attire! They explored the city, met with leaders, and expanded their perspectives of the world. I genuinely believe investing in the youth of our county is the single best long-term investment we can make. I appreciate the Fiscal Court, Board of Education, and CCHS Site Based Council for helping to bring this club to life,” said Judge-Executive Luke King. ? While in Washington, civics club members toured the Capitol Building, sat in on two sessions of the U.S. Supreme Court (getting to see eight of the nine U.S. Justices), paid their respects to fallen soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery, saw the original founding documents (Constitution, Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence), and enjoyed learning from each memorial, monument, and museum. ? Before each student could be extended an invitation for the trip, he/she had to be engaged locally at community events and meetings. The students also traveled to Frankfort earlier in the year and met with state-wide leaders prior to traveling on to the federal level. Students who are interested in getting involved with the club may contact any current club members or the County Judge-Executive’s Office at 270-864-3444. We can also be reached via email at?[email protected]. *** Picture 1 in front of the U.S. Capitol (left to right): Civics Club Judge Sadie Arterburn, Civics Club Deputy Judge Aidan Capps, Civics Club Magistrate Evan Stotts, & Cumberland Co. Judge Luke King. ? Picture 2 on the Speaker’s Balcony (L to R): Luke King, Evan Stotts, Sadie Arterburn, and Aidan Capps. ? Picture 3 in front of the U.S. Supreme Court (L to R): Aidan Capps, Sadie Arterburn, and Evan Stotts.??

PRESS RELEASE May 24, 2024 For Immediate Release The newest members of the Cumberland County Team accompanied Judge Luke King to the recent Lake Cumberland Area Development District (LCADD) meeting. These local county interns were able to experience a full board meeting and listened to discussion from not only judges across the 10-county region, but also from LCADD staff as well as Senator Paul and Congressman Comer’s Office. The students were recognized during the meeting and were able to communicate with leaders from across the region after the meeting adjourned. The young leaders answered several questions about both the local Civics Club and the county internship program. After the board meeting, students traveled to the Russell Springs City Park and met with Mayor Eddie Thomas and Economic Development Director Jeramy Coffey to watch a demonstration of the city’s newly constructed splash pad. Mayor Thomas and Director Coffey answered questions from the students about construction costs, maintenance, design, and funding. The group also inquired about the city’s new pickleball courts and the costs associated with their construction and design. “The students represented our county well during the board meeting, paying careful attention to all the resources in our area. They also did a remarkable job after the meeting answering questions about one of the region’s first civics clubs and suggesting how other counties could implement something similar. These young leaders are invested in our county’s future progress and that was especially apparent in their discussions with Mayor Thomas and Director Coffey,” said Judge-Executive Luke King. The Cumberland County Civics Club set their annual priorities at the beginning of 2024. One of the top two priorities was creating a place where local youth can relax and gather together. Splash pads and recreational centers are a key focus of their agenda. The group will be traveling to other counties over the next couple months to view similar sites and have more conversations about the long-term and short-term costs. If you have suggestions or wish to be part of the ongoing discussions, you may call 270-864-3444 or email [email protected]. *** This press release was drafted by Civics Club Member and County Intern Tyler Thacker. Pictured from left to right: Casey Co. Judge Randy Dial, Taylor Co. Judge Barry Smith, Whitley Co. Judge Pat White, Green Co. Judge John Frank, McCreary Co. Judge Jimmie Greene, Civics Club Judge Sadie Arterburn, Civics Club EM Director Tyler Thacker, Civics Club Magistrate Evan Stotts, Civics Club Communications Director Taylor Craig, Russell Co. Judge Randy Marcum, Clinton Co. Judge Ricky Craig, Pulaski Co. Judge Marshall Todd, Cumberland Co. Judge Luke King, and Adair Co. Judge Larry Russell Bryant.??