LAUREL COUNTY, Ky. — In a brief but highly significant visit by two state representatives on Wednesday, two local persons received outstanding honors from the state level.

The first stop was at the Laurel County Courthouse where Laurel native Keith Parrott was recognized for winning the 2011 World Championship Trap Shooting competition. Parrott shot 100 for 100 in the Chicago competition, tying with another expert marksman. A shootoff resulted in Parrott taking the title, winning with a 25 for 25 record over this opponent, who shot 22 of 25.

“And he hasn’t missed yet!” said State Representative Jim Stewart.

Stewart and Representative Marie Rader also unveiled a sign commemorating Parrott’s achievement which will be displayed at the Laurel-Clay County line and another posted along Ky. 192 in London City Limits.

Rader said Parrott’s achievement was remarkable and served as a positive role model for other young people.

Joining Rader and Stewart for the ceremony were Parrott’s parents, Dr. Wayne Parrott and wife, Linda; members of the Laurel County Fiscal Court; Laurel County Judge Executive David Westerfield; Deputy Judge Executive Rick Brewer; Laurel County Sheriff John Root; Laurel County Jailer Jamie Mosley; and Laurel County Clerk Dean Johnson.

Immediately after that presentation, Stewart and Rader visited the Laurel Stockyards on East Fourth Street, where they presented Lee Williams with an Honorary Commissioner of Agriculture award.

“This is the first Honorary Commissioner award ever and I don’t know of anyone more deserving,” Stewart told Williams.

Williams, who is approaching his 90th birthday, has been an icon in agricultural development in Laurel County for many years. He was part owner in the Williams Stockyard on South Laurel Road with three brothers and a sister.

That company sold in recent years and Lee Williams then purchased the Laurel Stockyard on East Fourth Street, carrying on the tradition of raising and buying cattle that he has established over several decades.

He is owner of Williams Cattle Company and still maintains between 300 to 800 head of cattle.

Though he said he had some health problems, his bright smile has not dimmed and nor does his face when he begins talking about cattle. If there is one thing Williams knows, it is raising cattle — a vocation he has pursued throughout his life.

Though Williams said he is not intrigued by receiving honors, he didn’t hide his pleasure in receiving the award on Wednesday morning.

“I just know cattle. That’s all I’ve ever done,” he said.



njohnson@sentinel-echo.com