Edmonson Voice Report:
​A former KSP trooper and youth camp director of Trooper Island was indicted in Clinton County on suspicion of stealing funds from the camp.

Jonathan Biven, 46, of Barren County, was indicted Monday by a Clinton County grand jury on a count of Theft by unlawful taking (greater than $10,000 but less than $1 million), according to a report from the Bowling Green Daily News.

Biven was served Tuesday with an indictment warrant and released on a $25,000 surety bond, according to court records.

​According to multiple reports, Biven allegedly took or exercised control over revenue and other funds belonging to Trooper Island between Jan. 1, 2019, and Sept. 30, 2024, (around the time of his retirement) with the intent to deprive the camp of the funds.

Biven had previously served as a trooper with KSP Post 3 in Bowling Green, working for a period of time there as a public information officer, the Daily News stated.

BGDN also reported that while Biven was with the agency, he spent several years serving as director of Trooper Island, which is a free summer youth camp operated by KSP.

Trooper Island operates as a nonprofit funded entirely by donations, grants, fundraisers, and community support.

Biven reportedly worked as a public safety officer with the Louisville Regional Airport Authority’s Department of Public Safety at the time of the indictment.

An investigation was conducted by the KSP Special Investigations Branch, where they reviewed financial transaction records and referred findings to the Clinton County Commonwealth Attorney's Office. 

Biven is due to be arraigned September 10th in Clinton Circuit Court, the Daily News said.

Darren Doyle, story:
We interviewed Edmonson County School Superintendent Brian Alexander about the beginning of the 2026-27 school year, which is today for teachers and staff, and tomorrow, August 13th for students. 

With the end of the Edmonson County 5/6 Center, the first year of the expansion of South Edmonson, and the final year of the current Kyrock Elementary before the new school opens in 2027-28, Mr. Alexander gave us his thoughts on school and some helpful tips for parents, guardians, and students.

Q: What are the biggest changes or any adjustments that the public should be made aware for the start of school on Thursday? 

A: I think first and foremost, we have reassigned students for the 5th and 6th grades.  6th graders now go to the Middle School for this year, while 5th grade will stay at Kyrock and South Edmonson, respectively.  

Q: South Edmonson Elementary's expansion has been pretty extensive and construction of the new Kyrock is still underway. Can you give us an update of those projects?

A: South Edmonson's renovation is complete.  We are so pleased with the way this turned out.  Unless you have a really trained eye, you can't really tell where the original part of the school ends, and where the new addition begins.  This was the goal from the beginning and this is both inside and out.  I think the school community at South Edmonson will be very pleased with the look and space of the newly renovated school there.  With a newly renovated media center as well, our Bulldogs have a lot to look forward to this school year.

Kyrock Elementary replacement construction is going remarkably well.  The project is ahead of schedule and will be ready for school a year from now in August of 2027.  We are very pleased with how this project will turn out and we fully expect our new Kyrock to be a source of pride for Blackhawks for generations to come!

In addition, we've worked on the Football/Soccer field as well, installing an new turf playing field.  And that's not all. We have even more additions and improvements planned for this area!

Q: People can sometimes underestimate the impact on school traffic, especially in the mornings when everyone is headed to work. What will be the main timeframes of school traffic?

A: School traffic starts to amp up around 7:15 am in the mornings, with 7:25 to 7:50 turning into the peak times for traffic at all our schools.  Please plan ahead and have your children to school on time.  We have breakfast at all locations each morning!

Q: You have been very proactive in with improvements to the facilities at all Edmonson County Schools during your tenure, as proven by the construction projects. Is there more you can discuss and provide your personal expectations for the upcoming school year?

A: We're excited to get the new year going.  It's always the goal, first and foremost, to provide a safe environment for our staff and students.  The addition of a third school resource officer this year shows the Board's dedication to safety.  Our schools are above and beyond the state requirements for school safety.

We have a great staff at each of our schools and our teachers have been working for several days to plan lessons that  will capture and stimulate the minds of our kids in the classroom.  Edmonson County Schools is very proud to say that all of our schools that start this school year are HIGH ACHIEVING SCHOOLS in terms of state standards.  We value each student!

Edmonson County is a great place to live, and our students all have schools that are great places to learn.  Its a great time to be a part of Edmonson County Schools!
​

Edmonson Voice Report:
Representative Michael Meredith of Oakland led the annual meeting of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Banking, Financial Services and Insurance Committee during the organization’s July meeting in Chicago, according to a press release from the Kentucky House Majority Caucus. The NCSL is a bipartisan organization that supports state lawmakers and advocates for state priorities on a wide range of public policy issues nationwide.
 
“It is an honor to represent our commonwealth on the national level,” Meredith said. “This leadership role gives Kentucky a seat at the table as states work together to address the financial issues facing our communities and economy. It also gives us an opportunity to share what we are doing right here in Kentucky and learn from the innovative ideas being implemented in other states.”
 
Meredith joined fellow state legislators from across the country at the 2026 NCSL Summit in, where he led the committee through its business meeting and discussions on issues affecting the financial well-being of states, families, and businesses, according to the KHMC's statement.
 
The KHMC said that the NCSL Summit brings together thousands of state legislators, legislative staff, policy experts and other leaders to discuss emerging issues and share ideas that can help states better serve their residents. Meredith’s involvement gives Kentucky an opportunity to contribute to those national conversations while bringing valuable information and perspectives back to the commonwealth.
 
"The Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance Committee is responsible for representing states’ interests in federal decisions involving banking and financial services, including asset development and financial literacy, cannabis banking, financial crimes, insurance other than health insurance, financial technology and digital currencies, mortgages and loans, securities and other financial services issues," the statement read.
 
The committee also provides state legislators and legislative staff with an opportunity to share experiences and learn from policies being considered or implemented in other states. As financial technology continues to evolve and consumers and businesses navigate an increasingly complex financial landscape, Meredith said it is important for state lawmakers to stay informed and ensure state policies keep pace with those changes.
 
“State lawmakers are often on the front lines of these issues,” Meredith said. “Whether we are talking about protecting consumers, encouraging financial literacy, supporting businesses or making sure our financial institutions can continue to serve their communities, the decisions we make can have a real impact on people’s everyday lives. Working with legislators from other states helps us identify what works and what we can do better.”
 
Meredith represents Kentucky’s 19th House District, which includes all of Edmonson County and a portion of Warren, and has been active in legislative issues involving financial services, economic development and the state’s business climate, according to the released statement. They said his participation in NCSL provides another avenue for Kentucky to share its experiences and work with other states on policies that strengthen communities and expand economic opportunity.

Darren Doyle, story:
A Wingfield man was arrested and faces felony charges after an eventful interaction with law enforcement that included an attempted suicide, officials said.

According to arrest reports, Edmonson County Sheriff deputies were called to 171 Bridge Road in Wingfield on Saturday, August 8th, around 2PM to the report of a neighbor dispute. The Sheriff's Office stated the dispute was over some personal property.​

Deputies arrived at the scene and saw a white male, identified as Jeremy Hopkins, (36), hanging from a tree by his neck, according to the report. Deputies then reportedly rushed to assist Hopkins, with one deputy lifting him up to remove pressure from the rope, while another cut the rope and assisted Hopkins to the ground, according to the report.

Law enforcement said that while Deputies were with Hopkins, two females in the yard began to argue over the original issue to which the deputies responded. As one deputy attempted to detain Hopkins and wait for medical attention, the other deputy went to investigate the verbal argument of the women in the front yard of the residence, according to law enforcement.

The arrest report stated that Hopkins then jumped to his feet and began to flee from the deputies, where he made his way through the underpinning of the home, underneath the floor. Law enforcement told the Edmonson Voice that Hopkins had built somewhat of an "escape hatch" in the floor of the home that exited underneath the floor. Hopkins was able to enter the home from this hatch and then exited the front door with a handgun.

Deputies then drew their weapons and commanded Hopkins to drop the gun, which resulted in a brief standoff in the front yard, the report stated. Hopkins reportedly kept the firearm at his waist and never pointed it at law enforcement. Multiple neighbors told the Edmonson Voice they witnessed this standoff as they drove by the residence.

Hopkins then reportedly attempted to flee from law enforcement once more, resulting in him being tased by a deputy. After a brief struggle, Hopkins was detained and arrested, law enforcement stated. He was transported to the Medical Center in Bowling Green, then cleared and transported to the Hart County Jail. 

Arrest documents stated that Hopkins admitted to deputies he was intoxicated on methamphetamine.

Hopkins was charged with:

• Wanton endangerment, first degree (Class D felony)
• Resisting arrest
• Disorderly conduct, first degree
• Menacing
• Criminal mischief, first degree (Class D felony)
• Public intoxication-controlled substance, excludes alcohol

Hopkins was arrested on May 5th for being intoxicated on drugs and wandered onto a neighbor's property and would not leave. He was also accused of fleeing from law enforcement in the incident.

​The Sheriff's Office was assisted by U.S. Park Rangers and Edmonson EMS.

​Hopkins remains jailed on a $10,000 cash bond.

Edmonson Voice Report:
A Morgantown man has been arrested on child rape charges after an investigation by Kentucky State Police.

According to police, on Wednesday, August 5th, Wesley Wright, age 32 of Morgantown, KY was charged with two counts of Rape, 1st Degree- Victim Under 12 Years of Age.

Wright was charged while in custody at the Daviess County Detention Center on previous unrelated charges, police said.

Kentucky State Police Post 16 was contacted with an anonymous tip regarding potential criminal activity in a camper trailer at 4164 KY-815 in McLean County August 4th. He was taken into custody on multiple outstanding warrants, police said. 

The investigation remains ongoing. Wright remains in jail on a $500,000 cash bond. ​

Edmonson Voice Report:
​A Logan County educator was arrested Tuesday on charges related to child sexual exploitation materials, according to Kentucky State Police. 

Austin Cole Epley, 25, of Russellville, was charged with distribution of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor under 12.

Epley was arrested as the result of an undercover Internet Crimes Against Children investigation on Tuesday, August 4th. The KSP Electronic Crime Branch began the investigation after discovering the suspect sharing images of child sexual exploitation online.

Epley was the band director for Adairville Elementary School, a K-8 facility. According to Logan County Superintendent Dan Costellow, Epley "has been removed from work, and is in custody. I have taken appropriate action to remove this individual from the District," Dr. Costellow said in a released statement.

Dr. Costellow also stated that based on the current information available, the matter involving the former employee was not connected to any current or former Logan County Schools students.

"The district has also begun an internal investigation and will continue to cooperate fully with local and state law enforcement as their investigation proceeds."​

According to KSP, the investigation resulted in a search warrant at a residence in Russellville on August 4, 2026. Equipment used to facilitate the crime was seized and taken to KSP’s forensic laboratory for examination, police said.

"The safety of our students is always our highest priority, and we will ensure that the employee is not permitted on our school grounds until this matter has been resolved," Dr. Costellow's statement said. "Due to individual privacy rights, we are unable to comment further at this time."

Mr. Epley is currently charged with eight counts of distribution of matter portraying a minor in a sexual performance under 12 years old.  These charges are Class-C felonies, punishable by five to ten years in prison.  Epley was lodged in the Logan County Detention Center where he remains on a $125,000 cash bond.

Edmonson Voice Report:
​More than 75 educators and staff members from Kyrock Elementary School and Edmonson County Middle School recently completed "Stop the Bleed" training, which equipped them with the knowledge and confidence to respond to life-threatening bleeding emergencies until first responders arrive.

A total of 43 staff members from Kyrock Elementary School and 34 staff members from Edmonson County Middle School participated in the training. The classes were held as part of an ongoing initiative to improve emergency preparedness throughout the Edmonson County School District.

The training was led by Ashley Ritter, Trauma Program Coordinator for T.J. Regional Health and paramedic with Edmonson County EMS, alongside Officer Wally Ritter with the Leitchfield Police Department. Both Ashley and Wally said they are proud parents of a student at Kyrock Elementary School and were honored to help provide this lifesaving education to local school staff.

Participants learned how to recognize life-threatening bleeding, apply direct pressure, properly pack wounds, and correctly use tourniquets. Following completion of the course, "Stop the Bleed" kits were placed in strategic locations throughout each school, ensuring staff have immediate access to lifesaving equipment should an emergency occur.

The training and equipment are part of a project initiated by Daniel Ashley, Battalion Chief with the Bowling Green Fire Department and husband of a Kyrock Elementary teacher. His vision was to provide schools with the equipment and education necessary to save lives during the critical minutes before emergency responders arrive. The bleeding control kits were made possible through the generosity of community donors and supporters who recognized the importance of improving school safety.

Edmonson County High School staff completed the same training earlier this year before the end of the spring semester, with bleeding control kits being installed throughout the high school following the course. With the completion of this week's classes, two more schools are now equipped with both trained personnel and readily accessible bleeding control equipment.

"Stop the Bleed is designed to empower everyday people to act in an emergency," said Ashley Ritter. "Severe bleeding can become fatal within minutes, and by providing staff with both the training and the proper equipment, we're giving them the ability to make a difference until EMS arrives. We hope these kits are never needed, but if they are, we want staff to feel prepared and confident to respond."
​
Mrs. Ritter also said the initiative reflects a collaborative effort between local emergency responders, healthcare professionals, school leaders, and community supporters who share the common goal of creating a safer environment for students and staff throughout Edmonson County.

She also noted that future training sessions are in the works for other schools as well.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
The Edmonson County Lions Club has announced the dates and events of this year's fair, which is scheduled for Tuesday, September 8th through Saturday, September 12, 2026.

This year's theme is officially "Happy 250th Birthday America."

The following events have been announced with admission and further information to come later:

• TUESDAY, SEPT 8TH: KOTTPA TRUCK PULL
• WEDNESDAY, SEPT 9TH: TRACTOR PULL
• THURSDAY, SEPT 10TH: OFF-ROAD CHALLENGE (new event)
• FRIDAY, SEPT 11TH: FAIR PARADE AT 9AM, FAIR DAY 10AM - 2PM
• FRIDAY NIGHT, SEPT 11TH: RODEO BY SPUR A PRODUCTIONS
• SATURDAY, SEPT 12TH: DEMOLITION DERBY

Edmonson County Fair Pageant information is provided in the flyer below: For more information, contact [email protected].

For more information, contact the Edmonson County Lions Club via their Facebook Page here.

Darren Doyle, story:
The following press release was issued by the office of U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell today, regarding an update on his health and his continuing recovery. McConnell has not yet been medically cleared to return to the Senate after a reported fall at his home that resulted in hospitalization on June 14th of this year.​

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and the Office of the Attending Physician released the following today:

“I’m still working hard to get back to my full schedule of work in the Senate and in Kentucky, keeping up with intense physical therapy per my doctors’ orders. Unfortunately, that means I won’t be able to make it to Fancy Farm, Kentucky this Saturday.

“There’s no place I’d rather be on the first Saturday in August than with the good people of western Kentucky, feasting on pork and mutton. When I first attended forty-two years ago, Fancy Farm was a pretty lonely place to be a Republican. But, my, how times have changed. Today, western Kentucky is a conservative Republican sea of red. So I hate that I’ll miss the fun this year, but I’m sending my best wishes to the St. Jerome community for a successful picnic.

“As always, I appreciate all of your continued well wishes, and I’m looking forward to getting back to the Senate and to Kentucky soon.”

From the Office of the Attending Physician (OAP):
“Senator McConnell continues his recovery from a fall at home in June. OAP physicians visit with the Senator every day, discussing all aspects of his rehabilitation care. Since his discharge from hospital care, he has maintained a strenuous course of physical therapy and rehabilitation, including multiple sessions a day designed to rebuild strength and reduce the risk of future falls. His bout with childhood polio continues to be a significant factor in his mobility. He is not yet medically cleared to leave the rehab facility and return to the office.”

Darren Doyle, story:
The newly purchased Edmonson County Jaws of Life Vehicle is now fully operational and on the road in Edmonson County.

The vehicle is a fully-equipped 2026 Ford F-550 Extrication Response Vehicle, and local emergency workers say it marks a significant investment in the safety of both emergency responders and the community they serve.

The new truck replaces a 2008 Ford F-250 that was in service since 2013. Over the years, the previous vehicle began to age from wear and tear as increased usage took its toll.

"One of the most significant improvements is the ability to transport up to five emergency responders in a single vehicle," said local paramedic and firefighter Ashley Ritter. "The previous truck could only accommodate two personnel, often requiring additional vehicles to respond. Having more rescuers arrive together allows the team to begin complex extrication operations more quickly and efficiently, improving response times during critical incidents."

The extrication response vehicle is housed at the Kyrock Volunteer Fire Department and is staffed by Kyrock firefighters, who provide specialized rescue services throughout Edmonson County. The truck responds countywide to motor vehicle collisions where rescue tools, stabilization equipment, and advanced extrication techniques are needed to safely remove patients trapped inside damaged vehicles.

"This new vehicle represents a major step forward in our ability to serve the citizens of Edmonson County," Jeff Clubb, Kyrock Fire Chief. "Our firefighters are now able to respond in a safe vehicle that is better equipped to perform vehicle extrications."

Ritter said the addition of the 2026 Ford F-550 demonstrates Edmonson County's continued commitment to supporting its emergency responders and investing in equipment that enhances public safety.

"Whether responding to a single-vehicle crash on a rural roadway or a complex multi-vehicle collision, the new rescue truck will help ensure firefighters have the resources necessary to provide the highest level of service to the community," Ritter said.

Magistrates voted to approve the purchase of the vehicle in March of this year. While the vehicle is overseen and operated by Kyrock Volunteer Fire Department, it is contracted by the county government.

The winning bid for the vehicle was awarded to Paul Miller Commercial Vehicle Center, according to County Judge/Executive Scott Lindsey, with a price tag of $91,009.48.​

"As traffic volumes continue to increase and vehicle technology becomes more complex, having a purpose-built extrication response vehicle ensures Edmonson County remains prepared to meet the challenges of today's emergency rescue operations while providing a safer working environment for the firefighters who answer the call," Ritter said.

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Schools has announced the hiring of Mrs. Rachel Donnelly as the newest school board finance officer.

School Superintendent Brian Alexander discussed the hire, which became finalized a few days ago.

"We are so excited to welcome Rachel into the school system in her new role," he said. "She has a wealth of knowledge, incredible work ethic, and the experience needed for the job. We had several very strong candidates that applied for the job, but she is definitely the total package."

Rachel, who is a lifelong resident of Edmonson County and a graduate of ECHS, said she was truly thankful for the opportunity to work in Edmonson County.

Both of her parents, the late Mr. Dennis Priddy, and Mrs. Lecia Priddy retired from the Edmonson County school system. 

She described Edmonson County as a place "where my heart will always be."

"It breaks my heart thinking about Callie’s (Ashley) tragic passing. She left big shoes to fill and did a great job for the students in Edmonson County. She worked hard and I only hope the Lord will help me honor her legacy."

Mrs. Donnelly has worked 8.5 years in school finance in Warren County.

"I hope that foundation will help me in this role," she said. "I look forward to getting started."

​She resides in Edmonson County with her husband Arthur and two young sons.

Darren Doyle, story:
A Leitchfield man was arrested and faces a host of charges after he was found running naked in a field in the Sunfish community.

According to a press release from the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, deputies responded to a domestic disturbance call on Sunfish Bee Spring Road on July 22nd around 3AM.

The Sheriff's Office stated that the caller said her son, David Hensley, (35) of Leitchfield, had awakened during the night and was behaving erratically. The caller reported that Hensley struck her in the face, prompting her to take her
grandchild to a neighboring residence, where she contacted law enforcement, according to the press release.

The Sheriff's Office stated that upon their arrival, deputies observed Hensley running through a nearby field completely naked. Deputies made contact with Hensley and issued multiple verbal commands, which he failed to obey, and during the encounter Hensley reportedly continued to make verbal threats toward the victim, according to the Sheriff's Office.

Deputies reported that as they attempted to place Hensley under arrest, he became combative and kicked the responding deputies. Hensley reportedly stated that he had taken "all kinds of drugs," the Sheriff's Office stated.

Hensley was taken into custody and transported to the Hart County Jail where he currently remains on a $10,000 cash bond.

​ He was charged with:

• Public Intoxication-Controlled Substance (Excludes Alcohol)
• Indecent Exposure, 2nd Degree
• Disorderly Conduct, 2nd Degree
• Menacing
• Terroristic Threatening, 3rd Degree
• Assault 3rd Degree-Police or Prob Officer
• Assault 2nd Degree- Domestic Violence
• Resisting Arrest
• Endangering the Welfare of a Minor

This is the second Edmonson County arrest in as many days involving naked men and controlled substance intoxication.

Darren Doyle, story:
An Ohio County man faces a felony drug charge after law enforcement said he was intoxicated in his vehicle while being only partially clothed.

In an Edmonson Voice interview, an Edmonson County sheriff's deputy said deputies were dispatched to Cedar Grove Church Road at approximately 6:45AM on Monday, July 20th to the complaint of a suspicious person in a pickup truck that was in a ditch. Deputies reportedly made contact with the caller, who stated the driver of the vehicle was acting erratically. 

The deputy stated that they found a Chevy Colorado nearby, approximately 75 yards off the road in an overgrown field and they made contact with the driver who allegedly was unable to open the door. Sheriff's deputies then opened the door to discover the man was nude from the waist down, wearing only a t-shirt, while showing signs of substance intoxication, the deputy stated.

The deputy also stated that the man could not identify himself, was unable to give his address, nor any other information other than "I don't know." He also stated to law enforcement that he did not know where he was, how long he'd been there, nor why, the deputy stated.

According to the deputy, the man's wallet was found in the vehicle and he was identified as Matthew Gilstrap, (52) of Hartford, Kentucky. The deputy also stated that drug paraphernalia was found in plain view, and after a probable cause search of the vehicle, multiple bags of suspected meth along with other paraphernalia were also found.

The deputy said that Gilstrap was arrested and was provided a pair of pants. He was charged with: Possession of controlled substance-first degree-first offense (meth), Public Intoxication of controlled substance (excludes alcohol), and Possession of drug paraphernalia-buy/possess. 

He was lodged in the Hart County Jail where he was later released on bond. 
​

Darren Doyle, story:
A Bowling Green man has died as a result of a drowning on Nolin Lake yesterday.

According to the Edmonson County Coroner's Office, emergency personnel was called to the scene of a possible drowning around 7PM on Sunday, July 19th at Juniper Lane, off Dickeys Mill Road at a private dock on Nolin Lake.

The Coroner's Office said that multiple people were swimming near the dock yesterday evening when storm clouds rolled in and caused the group to exit the water. 

Dartel Long, Jr., age 20, who was reportedly not a strong swimmer, was in the water on a float but after swimmers began gathering in, he was missing from the float and could not immediately be located, Deputy Coroner Richie Jones said.

Mr. Long's body was recovered about an hour after the incident occurred, according to the Coroner's Office. He was pronounced dead at the scene. 

He was reportedly a student at Western Kentucky University who was there visiting a friend's cabin, the Coroner's Office stated.

Also working at the scene was Edmonson EMS, Lincoln Fire Department, Edmonson Emergency Management, Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Darren Doyle, story:
A local man died as a result of a fiery crash on Tuesday, according to Kentucky State Police.

​In a press release, KSP said they received a call from Edmonson County dispatch about a single vehicle fatal collision on Tuesday, July 14th around 7PM, where troopers responded on scene in the 3800 block of Segal Road. 

KSP stated that a white Chevrolet passenger vehicle operated by Tim Kinser, 65, of Brownsville, was traveling east on Segal Road where Mr. Kinser's vehicle left the roadway and collided with a tree, where the vehicle then caught fire.

Mr. Kinser was pronounced dead at the scene by the Edmonson County Coroner, KSP stated. 
​
The investigation is ongoing and is being led by Trooper Grant Robertson. He was assisted at the scene by Edmonson County EMS, Edmonson County Coroner's Office and other KSP personnel.  

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Sheriff's Office has released a warning regarding a new scam in Edmonson County and beyond.

"Scammers are contacting citizens and falsely claiming they have active federal warrants for failing to report for federal grand jury subpoenas," the statement read. "The callers impersonate U.S. Marshals or other law enforcement officers to demand information or payment."

In addition, the Sheriff's Office included the following: 

• Law enforcement will never call to demand money or threaten arrest over missed jury duty.
• Federal warrants are never handled via spontaneous phone requests for personal data.
• Do not disclose personal data, financial details, or credit card numbers to these callers. 

Local residents are encouraged to let their elderly family members know, as older folks are often the primary victims of these frauds.

"If you receive one of these calls, hang up immediately," the Sheriff's Office stated. 

Edmonson Voice Report:
The Edmonson County School District has offered a tribute to Finance Officer of Edmonson County Schools Mrs. Callie Ashley, who died unexpectedly from a sudden illness. 

Superintendent Brian Alexander submitted the following statement to the Edmonson Voice:

​"The Edmonson County School District mourns the loss of Callie Ashley, our faithful co-worker for the last five years and a dear friend to all throughout our schools.
 
Callie came to Edmonson County Schools in July of 2021 as Facilities and Safety Director, making an impact on school safety with our school district winning the KEMI Destiny Award each year she handled safety.
 
Callie also had a huge impact on the construction at Edmonson County Schools during her tenure.  She helped to complete the Senate Bill 1 Safety project, and worked with the Local Area Vocational Education Center (LAVEC) project from start to finish.  Callie also initiated and assisted with the South Edmonson Renovation project, the Kyrock Elementary replacement project, and the Football/Soccer Turf project as she transitioned  to Finance Officer.
 
Callie was a loyal and proud member of Edmonson County Schools.  She led by example with a tremendous work ethic and a giving heart.  She chose to be a part of our school district for all the right reasons.  She leaves a tremendous void to fill.
 
We join her family and a host of friends in mourning the tremendous loss we all feel.  Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time and times to come."

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County School District has announced that there are now full time school resource officers in each of Edmonson's school buildings, beginning with the 26-27 school year.

"We're very excited to be able to say that we have a dedicated School Resource Officer at each campus starting in August, 2026," said Superintendent Brian Alexander. "Chris McKee will be at Kyrock, Jeff Brooks at the Middle School/High School campus and we now have the addition of Austin Meredith at South Edmonson."

Mr. Alexander said the district is very fortunate to have this ability.

"Thanks to our Board for their dedication to student safety and the ECSO for their cooperation in making this possible."

In addition, he wanted to remind the public that all schools have ballistic film on every door, which surpasses state regulations and shows the board's dedication to student safety.

Darren Doyle, story:
Two individuals were arrested after Kentucky State Police reportedly discovered methamphetamine and marijuana during a search of their RV on July 5, 2026.

According to an arrest citation, officers responded to an anonymous tip regarding possible drug use at 2035 N. Alexander Creek Road just after midnight on July 5th. Upon arrival, troopers encountered two individuals identified as Brandon Harrison, (42) and Ponda Bennett (50), both listed as Bowling Green residents with separate addresses, according to the citation.

Troopers observed a clear glass pipe in plain view on the couch, commonly used to smoke methamphetamine, along with marijuana also visible in the open, the citation stated. A search warrant was obtained for the residence where approximately 1 gram of methamphetamine, four glass pipes containing methamphetamine residue, a glass pipe believed to contain marijuana, and 3.1 ounces of marijuana were discovered, the citation stated.

Harrison was charged with Possession of controlled substance first degree -- third or more offense (meth), and Drug paraphernalia -- buy/possess.

Bennett was charged with Possession of controlled substance first degree -- third or more offense (meth), Drug paraphernalia -- buy/possess, and Possession of marijuana.

Both were lodged in the Hart County Jail where Harrison is listed with a $10,000 cash bond and Bennett is listed as released on a $5,000 cash bond.

Darren Doyle, story and photo:
The office of Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has reported that today Beshear sent a letter to the office of U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell requesting an update on his health and well-being amid growing concerns around the Senator’s ability to serve.

Senator McConnell was reportedly admitted to the hospital on June 14th. Limited information has been available on his status and overall health. Speculation is growing throughout the media and social media as to whether or not McConnell is currently able to serve in his role as senator.

“Over the last several weeks, Kentuckians have grown increasingly concerned about the health and well-being of Sen. McConnell. As Governor – and a fellow public official who understands the commitment we’ve made to the people we serve – I am requesting the Senator provide an update on his current health status,” said Gov. Beshear. “Allowing speculation to continue in the media is not fair to the Senator or to Kentuckians, and my hope is that this provides him the opportunity to share the information in a transparent manner, direct from the source. I wish him a safe and speedy recovery.” 

There have been multiple reports that refered to an unconscious person at McConnell’s D.C. address on June 14th, in addition to the mentions of possible cardiac arrest, and CPR in progress, which has fueled rumors about the severity of his condition.
​
McConnell's last appearance in Edmonson County was on May 26th of this year, where he had to be assisted in walking by two staff members. The Senator appeared very frail at his public appearance on that day.

The Governor's Office attached the letter reportedly sent to McConnell's Office today in a press release.

According to reports from today and yesterday, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) and Senate Republican Whip John Barrasso (R-WY) both spoke with McConnell by phone in recent days. They described “lengthy and substantive” conversations covering national security, Senate races, Supreme Court rulings, and other topics. McConnell was reportedly “fully engaged” and “eager to get back to the Senate.”

McConnell is 84 years old and has served as one of Kentucky's Senators for 42 years. He has a history of health incidents in recent years, including falls, concussions, and episodes where he completely froze while speaking publicly.

He was first elected as Senator in 1984. McConnell announced in 2025 that he would not seek re-election and plans to retire when his current term ends in January 2027.

Darren Doyle, story: Mark Wardlow, photos:
Local veteran CWO-4 (Chief Warrant Officer 4) Tim "T-bone" Vincent of Bee Spring, a retired Apache helicopter pilot, has been named "Distinguished Aviator" from the Bowling Green Aviation Heritage Park Museum. He was honored with two other veterans in a ceremony at the park on July 3, 2026.

​As a highly-skilled pilot of an AH-64 Apache helicopter, a heavily armored, twin-engine attack helicopter used by the U.S. Army and other international forces, he and fellow pilots fired the very first shots of the Gulf War in 1991.

Vincent was honored alongside Allen County veteran Lt Col Gerald Roark and CWO3 Warren County veteran Charles Browning as part of the Aviation Heritage Park and Museum's grand opening of their Freedom Gallery, a new exhibit honoring hometown aviators whose courage and service helped preserve our nation's freedom.

Uniforms and memorabilia from Vincent's career and service are now on display at the museum, including a photo of Vincent standing on the door of the hiding place where Saddam Hussein was captured.

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​"Over the course of his career, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Vincent flew 292 combat missions, engaged in 27 direct-fire combat engagements, and accumulated 880 combat flight hours," the Aviation Heritage Park said in a written statement. "His service reflects a rare combination of Ranger leadership, aviation expertise, and sustained combat experience across multiple conflicts."

Vincent’s awards and decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, two Meritorious Service Medals, and six Air Medals with “V” Device for valor in combat operations.

He resides in Bee Spring with his wife Maria Roslyn.