This Thursday, October 16th, Carter County will join 19 other states in the International ShakeOut Day Earthquake Drill.
At 10:16 a.m., local schools, businesses, and residents are encouraged to take part by practicing what to do in the event of an earthquake — that’s “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.”
While earthquakes may not be common here, small tremors — like the 2.4 quake that occurred near Olive Hill just last weekend — are reminders that it’s always smart to be prepared.
As part of the drill, Grayson Emergency Management will activate the city’s siren system, so don’t be alarmed if you hear it — it’s only a test.
Emergency Management Director Roger Dunfee reminds everyone that it only takes a few minutes to review safety procedures that could save lives if a real emergency ever occurs.
Again, that’s the International ShakeOut Drill, this Thursday morning at 10:16. Take a moment to participate — because being prepared is always worth it.
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It’s officially forest fire hazard season here in Kentucky, and that means burn restrictions are now in effect across the state.
From October 1st through December 15th, it is illegal to burn between the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. if you are within 150 feet of any woodland or brushland. This law is in place because conditions during fall can make even small outdoor fires spread quickly, putting homes, property, and lives at risk. The only exceptions are if the ground is completely covered in snow, or if you wait until after 6 p.m. when conditions are generally safer.
It’s also important to note that burn bans are different from these seasonal restrictions. Burn bans can be issued at any time of year if wildfire danger is high, and they may come from local officials such as county judges or even statewide by the governor. When in place, burn bans override normal burn rules and can make all outdoor burning illegal until lifted.
The Kentucky Division of Forestry reminds everyone: if you do burn, all fires must be attended until they are completely extinguished. To stay safe—and to stay legal—check with your local fire department or county officials before starting any outdoor burning. More information can be found through the Kentucky Division of Forestry at eec.ky.gov.
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It’s almost time to crown new royalty in Grayson. The Grayson Octoberfest Queens Pageant 2025 takes center stage on Saturday, October 25th at noon, and it’s all happening right at the main Octoberfest stage in downtown Grayson.
This beloved hometown tradition celebrates poise, confidence, and community pride — giving local girls a shining moment in the spotlight. The pageant is open to contestants from newborn through age 18, or up to high school seniors, with divisions for every age group.
Each year, the Grayson Octoberfest Pageant brings together families, friends, and neighbors to cheer on participants as they showcase their personalities, confidence, and hometown spirit — and this year promises to be bigger and brighter than ever.
Winners will receive their crowns and sashes during one of the biggest weekends of the year in Grayson — surrounded by food vendors, live entertainment, crafts, and all the fun that comes with the annual Octoberfest celebration.
To register, visit the link or QR code found on the official Grayson Tourism page, or send an email to GraysonKYToursim@gmail.com for details.
Don’t miss your chance to take part in a sparkling community tradition — the Grayson Octoberfest Queens Pageant, happening Saturday, October 25th at noon, at the heart of Octoberfest!
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The Carter County Clean-Up campaign continues this week, with crews operating on the East end of the county. Dumpsters will be available for public use at the county maintenance garage in Grayson, and clean-up personnel will be on hand to help unload items each day from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM, today through Friday.
As a reminder, the list of items not accepted has been updated. Crews will not collect refrigerators, deep freezers, televisions, household garbage, paint, tires, or batteries. And all materials brought to the site must be bagged or boxed — no loose items will be accepted. The County Clean-Up runs on a rotating schedule, alternating between the East and West ends of Carter County every two weeks. After this week’s collection, dumpsters are scheduled to return to the Olive Hill maintenance garage along US 60 from October 22nd through the 24th.
This valuable community service is made possible by the Carter County Solid Waste Department, who continue to support these efforts to keep our neighborhoods clean, safe, and beautiful.
Again, dumpsters are open today through Friday, 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM, at the East end site in Grayson.