Suicide rates are higher than ever 

By Nikki Meade
The Greenup Beacon
Life is hard. Sometimes the level of hard a person has to deal with can just seem too much. Maybe the pain they feel leads them to isolate themselves as if their feelings are contagious or they fear not being understood. Sometimes people believe everyone around them would be better off without them. They can’t see any hope of better days to come.
The suicide rate for the state of Kentucky is 16.5 per 100,000 people. The numbers could be skewed in either direction due to overdose deaths and the inability to know the intentions. For every 1 person who commits suicide, there are 316 more who consider or attempt it. Locally, our numbers have been increasing and even children are killing themselves. Recently we were all reminded that mental health is especially important. The suicide of Naomi Judd was a jolt to our community. A reminder that depression and anxiety doesn’t discriminate based on your status.
Justin Taylor says, “I have been on many suicide calls over the years as well as attempted suicide calls. We have had to fly people out on medivac to try to save their lives. It is hard to try to lower the suicide rates because we live in such a desperate area and the times have changed. We need to deal with the drug issue and bring in jobs. This area needs hope. We need to be able to work towards making life better for our residents. And if people need help, we need them to know they can always reach out before it comes to suicide.”
Ashland Fire Department Chief Greg Ray says “The numbers are even higher for first responders. We see things all the time that would haunt anyone. We have developed procedures to help first responders. After difficult calls we have a debriefing. We watch out for any warning signs of depression or anxiety or just general unrest. We have implemented peer support and other treatment options for members of the fire service. We respond to calls for many types of deaths including suicide victims.”
Suicide can be a domino effect. It is advised that it runs in cycles and once one member of a group dies by suicide that others in that family or group are more likely to follow the lead. So, anyone who has been affected by the suicide of someone they care about should be monitored by their loved ones.
The CDC provides a list of risk factors on its website. A quick view of the list can explain why we have seen a spike. Problems with jobs and loss of employment, substance use disorders, social isolation, financial problems, serious illness, family history, and bullying are just a few things that can increase your risk. The country has been through a pandemic where everyone was isolated, many of the better jobs in our area have left, the drug epidemic is raging, and so many other things.
Signs to watch out for in your loved ones include losing interest in activities, talking of hopelessness or being a burden to those around them, indifference to life, and even talking about wanting to die or not caring if they live.
There is help. Pathways has a 24-hour crisis line as well as inpatient crisis services. The National Suicide Hotline also has help and you can always call 911 for help. Don’t suffer in silence. You can have better days ahead. There is always hope.

Farm to Table slated July 16

The July 16 date for the Greenup County Farm to Table dinner is fast approaching and it looks like it will be a sell-out.
Last year’s event was labeled by Kentucky Agricultural Commissioner Ryan Quarles as the largest farm to table dinner ever held in the state of Kentucky and it looks like this one will be even bigger and better.
It will once again be held at Imel’s Greenhouse at 2836 SR 1, Greenup KY.  All proceeds go to youth programs at Greenup County Future Farmers of America, 4-H, and the historic McConnell House.
With ticket prices being held at $35, it promises to be a big bang for the buck.
There will be dinner including cobbler which will be topped with ice cream made by the Greenup Old Tractor and Equipment Club, entertainment, a live auction and weather permitting, it will end with a fireworks display.
You know with Imel’s Greenhouse being involved there is going to be photo opportunities with hay bale art and fantastic decorations with plants and Old Farm Equipment.
Ask us about sponsorship opportunities. Your name or company’s name will be listed on our farm to table Facebook page, on a placemat at each diner’s seat, displayed at the event and recognized and announced during dinner.
You can get your tickets or sponsorship information at Imel’s Greenhouse or by calling Bud Matheny at 606-585-1585 or Kenny Imel at 606-831-1208. Call us. We can make it happen.

McKell names Ward principal

The McKell Middle School Site Based Decision Making Council has chosen MMS teacher, Robert Ward, as the school’s new assistant principal. Mr. Ward will replace longtime assistant principal, Chris Ailster, who will move to the head principal position at MMS beginning July 1. 

“Mr. Ward has proven himself as an exemplary teacher and leader”, says superintendent, Traysea Moresea. “He will work well with Mr. Ailster to serve MMS students, staff, and the community. I am excited to welcome Mr. Ward to the administrative team”.   

Mr. Ward holds a Bachelor’s degree in Middle School Education from Morehead State University, and a Master’s Rank 2 in Instructional Technology with teacher leader endorsement, as well as a Master’s Rank 1 in Administration from Georgetown College. Mr. Ward has served MMS as KY Youth Assembly Advisor, Academic Team Coach, Basketball Coach, and Beta Club Advisor.    

Ward currently lives in Ashland with his wife Kristen and their 7-month-old son, Benjamin.  

Bond Named Principal at WES

The Wurtland Elementary School Site Based Decision Making Council has chosen Heather Bond as the school’s new principal. 

Ms. Bond has served as the assistant principal at McKell Elementary School since January, 2021. She previously served as a classroom teacher at the elementary level for 11 years. Ms. Bond holds an Education Specialist Degree in Instructional Leadership from University of the Cumberlands, a Master's Degree in Elementary Education from Marshall University, and a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from Morehead State University. Outside of school, she enjoys taking trips with her husband, Joel, and their two children, Josie and Layne. 

Ms. Bond is looking forward to her new role. "I am beyond excited for the amazing opportunity to help lead Wurtland Elementary School forward. I'm looking forward to building relationships with the students, staff, families, and the community of Wurtland Elementary!” 

Ms. Bond will begin her new role on July 1, 2022.