Darren Doyle, story, Edmonson Voice photos:
Another year has come and gone as we begin our 12th year here at the Edmonson Voice.

This year's top stories revolve around fires, fatalities, and arrests. Here are the top viewed articles published in the Edmonson Voice for 2025, all with live links to the stories.

10. Early Morning Fire Claims Mobile Home

‘Twas The Night Before Christmas, Edmonson County Edition (by Darren Doyle)

Twas the night before Christmas, it was time to rejoice
In Edmonson County as all checked the Voice.
The stockings were hung by the chimneys with care, Across Nolin Lake, in the crisp Kentucky air.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While victories from the Wildcats danced in their heads.
And Judge Scott Lindsey, sitting at his desk, He had fallen asleep, he was getting some rest.
When out on the Green River there arose such a clatter, He sprang from his office to see what was the matter.
Away to the window he flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow, Gave luster to Brownsville’s quiet streets below.
When what to his wondering eyes should appear, But a pickup truck sleigh with Mark Wardlow so dear!
That jolly old driver, so lively and bold, ‘Twas Wardlow as Santa, dressed up in red and in gold.
More rapid than eagles, his coursers they came, And he whistled and shouted and called them by name:
“Now, Dasher! Now, Dancer! Now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! On, Cupid! On, Donner and Blitzen!
​Over Chalybeate hills, past the courthouse so tall,Now dash away, dash away, dash away all!”
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, They soared over Bee Spring, up into the sky.
Over the new Kyrock, the reindeer they flew, With a sleigh full of toys, over Mis Amigos, too.
As Scott looked up, and was turning around, Down the chimney ‘ol Wardlow came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his ball cap to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.
A bundle of toys, oh it looked so grand, And he was joined with others from Santa’s Helping Hands
His eyes—how they twinkled! His dimples, how merry!His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
He filled all the stockings with joy and with cheer,Then turned to the helpers who’d gathered so near.
The gifts all shined like beautiful diamonds, as here came the mayor, ‘twas Ricky Simon.
There stood Shelby, keeping order through the night, Ensuring the peace under soft Christmas light.
County Clerk Kevin Alexander, with records so neat,And Circuit Clerk Daniel Priddy, precise and complete.
PVA Kyle White assessed with a smile so bright,And Superintendent Mr. Alexander dreamed of students’ delight.
Wardlow and his helpers went straight to their work,Handed gifts out to all, then turned with a jerk.
With a nod to all present, all the Edmonson folk,
He sprang to his sleigh, gave the reindeer a poke.
And I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight,
“Merry Christmas Edmonson County, and to all a good night!”

An Edmonson County Grand Jury recently returned the following indictments for September through December, 2025. An indictment is only a formal charge and is not an admission of guilt or a verdict.

George William Payne, Jr.: Assault third degree, two counts. Assault fourth degree (domestic). Terroristic threatening, third degree. Disorderly conduct, second degree. Menacing.

Raymond Leon Seabolt: Possessing handgun by convicted felon. Persistent felony offender first degree. Trafficking in controlled substance, first degree, first offense, two grams or more of meth. Trafficking in controlled substance, first degree, first offense, four grams or more of cocaine. Operating on suspended or revoked license. Reckless driving. Possession of open alcohol container in motor vehicle. One headlight. Persistent felony offender first degree.

Cory James Burns: Fleeing or evading police, first degree, motor vehicle. Assault, third degree, two counts. Fleeing or evading police, third degree. Violation of KY EPO/DVO. Assault on service animal, second degree. Resisting arrest. Menacing. Persistent felony offender, second degree.

Rumsey Melvin Woodcock: Strangulation, second degree. Assault, fourth degree (domestic).

Edmonson Voice Report:
Edmonson County Sheriff's Office K9 Tatiana will receive a bullet and stab-protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. K9 Tatiana’s vest was sponsored by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. and will be embroidered with the sentiment “This gift of protection provided by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.”.  Delivery is expected within ten weeks.
 
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc., established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) charity whose mission is to provide bullet and stab protective vests and other assistance to dogs of law enforcement and related agencies throughout the United States. This potentially lifesaving body armor for four-legged K9 officers is U.S. made, custom fitted, and National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certified.  Since its inception, Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. has provided over 6,225 vests valued at $6.9 million to K9s in all 50 states, made possible by both private and corporate donations. 
 
The program is open to U.S. dogs at least 20 months old, actively employed, and certified with law enforcement or related agencies. K9s with expired vests are also eligible to participate. There are an estimated 30,000 law enforcement K9s throughout the United States.
 
Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.  accepts tax-deductible contributions in any amount, while a single donation of $1,050 will sponsor one vest.  Each vest has a value of $1800.00, weighs an average of 4-5 lbs., and comes with a five-year warranty. For more information, or to learn about volunteer opportunities, please call (508) 824-6978.  Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. provides information, lists events, and accepts donations at www.vik9s.org, or you may mail your contribution to P.O. Box 9, East Taunton, MA 02718.   

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Hall of Distinguished Alumni Committee has announced four inductees selected for the Class of 2026 which include Darrell Cassady, Travis Hudson, Alecia Webb-Edgington, and Vietnam war hero Elzie Sanders, JR.

Cassady, a 1966 graduate of Edmonson County High School and 1970 alumnus of Western Kentucky University, devoted his career to Edmonson County schools. Over 34 years, he taught at Kyrock Elementary and ECHS, led Brownsville Elementary as principal for 18 years, and held the role of Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools for 7 years.

Travis Hudson, a 1988 graduate of Edmonson County High School, has become one of the most celebrated figures in Western Kentucky University athletics as the legendary head coach of the WKU women’s volleyball program. After graduating from WKU in 1994 with a degree in business management, Hudson embarked on a coaching career that would span more than three decades on The Hill. 

Elzie Sanders, Jr., (d.), a 1966 graduate of Edmonson County High School, was a farm boy from Noah Bledsoe Road in the Chalybeate Community whose life became defined by service and sacrifice. Just six months after graduating, he enlisted in the United States Army, beginning a commitment that would mark the rest of his life. In April 1967, Sanders was deployed to Vietnam, where he served with courage and distinction. On November 12, 1967, during a search-and-destroy mission under intense enemy fire, he demonstrated extraordinary gallantry by leaving his position to aid wounded comrades after the senior medic was incapacitated. Though wounded himself, Sanders pressed on, administering lifesaving aid until he was mortally wounded in action. For his heroism, he was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, and other honors, reflecting the highest traditions of military service.

Alecia Webb-Edgington, a 1983 graduate of Edmonson County High School, made history as the first sworn female deputy at the Edmonson County Sheriff’s Office. She joined Kentucky State Police Cadet Class #68, advancing through the ranks to retire as Major. Webb-Edgington went on to serve as the Executive Director of Homeland Security under Governor Ernie Fletcher. She subsequently represented the 63rd District as a State Representative and ran for the 4th Congressional District.

The four inductees in the 2026 Class were chosen from a pool of nominations submitted by members of the community. The committee took extensive measures to evaluate each nomination to ensure that those selected reflected the criteria set forth. These include:

• Individual must clearly demonstrate outstanding personal, civic, or professional achievements.
• Individual brings honor and recognition to the alma mater through his/her profession or service.
  
• Individual of strong personal character, moral conviction, and outstanding service/contributions.
  
• Individual having attended or graduated no less than fifteen years from date of consideration.
  
• Individual whose achievements in career, public service, and volunteer activities are worthy of recognition and have brought honor to the Edmonson County School District.
  

The 2026 ECHS Honorary Alumnus will also be announced at the event, but as has become tradition, recipients of that award are not revealed until the evening of the Induction Ceremony.

In a released statement, the committee said it works diligently to thoroughly evaluate all nominees to select an exceptional class for the prestigious honor of induction into the Edmonson County Hall of Distinguished Alumni and this year is no different. While the committee discussed many worthy names of individuals who deserve consideration, they stated they are limited to only evaluating those with complete nomination forms.

Consequently, if the community feels strongly that someone should be included, then the onus is on them to submit a complete and detailed nomination for that candidate that thoroughly describes their contributions to the community as well as their professional success. Once a nomination is submitted, it will remain in the pool for consideration for three years. As nominations rotate out of the pool, they may be nominated again.

"It is critical for the community to engage with the process by submitting nominations on behalf of worthy individuals," stated the committee.

There are ten members of the 2026 Edmonson County HODA Committee. They are responsible for selecting each year’s class, identifying sponsors, planning and executing the annual Induction Ceremony and Dinner, and ensuring that the program is held in high regard through a consistent and fair selection process. They meet throughout the year and bring unique perspectives through their different professional experiences, community engagement roles, and broad generational representation.

The 2026 Edmonson County HODA Committee members are:

• Andrea Brantley
  
• Jamie Carnes
  
• April Hennion
  
• Dion Houchins
  
• Amanda Lich, Chair
  
• Ronald Scott Lindsey
  
• Carol Stice
  
• Laura-Grace Vincent
  
• Johnny Webb
  
• Jonathan Williams
  

Peytin Manor, photos:
Two very deserving organizations were recognized at last night's annual banquet for the Edmonson County Chamber of Commerce.

SCRTC was presented Chamber Business of the Year while local volunteer organization, The Edmonson County Art Guild, was named Chamber Servant of the Year.

SCRTC has been instrumental in bringing fiber internet to much of Edmonson County. While the company has been around for over 70 years, they are still relatively new to Edmonson County. As part of a statewide initiative, they helped thousands of local residents enjoy not only high speed internet, but phone, television, and other services.

As a result of their investment, other quality options are now available through competitors throughout the county that have improved their products and services as well. 

The Edmonson County Art Guild has had a significant impact on the community since their organization in 2023. With multiple beautification projects, like painting, photography, and murals, free community events such as Light the Square and live music shows, the group has brought a variation of improvements in the county. This past summer, they placed 200 American flags on all the utility poles in the City of Brownsville in conjunction with the county's 200th anniversary.

The Chamber also unveiled a new logo and new name that will be implemented in January of 2026, "EdmonsonInc." 

Outgoing Chamber President Darren Doyle discussed the night.

"These are two very deserving organizations that we've worked closely with over the past few years," he said. "First, the Art Guild is run by tremendous people that were born and raised here that have a deep love for our community. Their projects show how much they truly care about this place."

He then spoke about SCRTC.

"These guys have arguably had the biggest impact in our community in several years, with their investment in bringing fiber here," he said. "For years, we all struggled with the fact that internet service was just simply bad here and there was no sign of it changing until these guys came to town. But not just that, they have become part of our community by giving back to schools, and other organizations and causes. It's obvious they care about Edmonson County, and their example has led other companies to do the same."

He then discussed changes coming within the Chamber. 

"I have served for the past four years in my term as President, and it's time for someone else to take that role. In addition, our Vice President Josh Casey, Treasurer Daniel Bolton, and Board Member Mark Wardlow have also fulfilled their terms. It's been an honor working with these guys. They are fine folks, dear friends, and extremely passionate about Edmonson County. The same can be said about the newer board members as well. We've worked hard and done the best we could to improve the organization, which included a re-organization to better serve our members. The remaining members, Alicia Edwards, Sherrell Thompson, and Corey Culbreth have a great vision for next year with EdmonsonInc., the new name for the Chamber. We will welcome new board members Stacy Raymer and Jessica Turner in January, and they are already working well together. We can't wait to see what direction they go."

Darren Doyle, story and photos:
Two local businesses, each described as "home grown," were honored last night at the annual Edmonson County Industrial Authority dinner and awards, held at Tayvin Gardens in Chalybeate.

Bank of Edmonson County, which recently celebrated their 100th anniversary, received Business of the Year, presented by Chairman of the Industrial Authority and County Clerk Kevin Alexander. 

Alexander, a former employee of the Bank, discussed the impact the Bank has had on Edmonson County and the surrounding area. He spoke about the growth of the Bank through different decades and how it began as a $15,000 company that has now grown to a $200 million enterprise with three branches. The Bank leadership is still in the same family, with Alex Ulm serving as president and his sister Michelle Coleman serving as CEO.

R&R, which began as a simple business called R&R Refrigeration in a small shop over 40 years ago, was honored as the Edmonson County Industrial Authority Industry of the Year. Co-founded by local resident Rex Wells, the HVAC company has expanded into multiple branches, including sheet metal, technical services, in addition to R&R Properties. 

The Brownsville company now employs nearly 100 people and serves not only this area, but has customers in multiple states. The family-based company is still owned and managed by the same company with three siblings, Ross Wells, Nathan Wells, and Holly Hayes serving as leadership for the company now simply known as R&R. 

Former Bowling Green Mayor and Edmonson County native Johnny Webb was the keynote speaker at the event.

He spoke of his humble upbringing in Lindseyville and traded jabs with several attendees in the crowd. He discussed the creation of one of the most efficient cleanup and beautifying projects in the state, which he led: "Operation P.R.I.D.E." 

The project, started over 30 years ago, helped improve the Bowling Green exits on Interstate 65 and other areas in Bowling Green. He encouraged those in attendance to have pride in their communities and to sell those same communities to others in order to promote growth in them.

The Industrial Authority is managed by a board of directors of all local residents.

Darren Doyle, story:
The Edmonson County Board of Education recently voted to name the Edmonson County High School gymnasium court “Bowman Davenport Court."  The naming of the floor will be recognized on December 29th, between the ECHS boys' and girls' games at approximately 6:45PM. 

Coach Davenport led the 1976 Edmonson County Wildcats to the KHSAA State Championship trophy. This basketball season represents the 50th anniversary of the achievement. 

Superintendent of Edmonson County Schools Brian Alexander said he was able to locate Coach Davenport's signature from old school documents. His signature will be added to the court.

“It’s very important to the Board to embrace our past as a school district while striving to build for the future.   Coach Davenport led our boy’s basketball team to the pinnacle of success here in the state of Kentucky 50 years ago, and the Board felt this honor would be a way to commemorate him.”

There will also be a recognition for the 1976 team at the Butler County game on Feb 6th. 

Edmonson Voice Report:
Kentucky State Representative Michael Lee Meredith has been appointed Vice Chair of the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance Committee of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), a bipartisan organization that supports state lawmakers and advances sound public policy across the country.

As part of his new role, Rep. Meredith traveled to Washington, D.C., on November 19th and 20th to participate in meetings, including a legislators-only policy briefing at the White House with members of President Donald Trump’s staff. The briefing brought together a select group of state leaders to discuss how state and federal governments can work together.

Meredith currently serves as Chair of the Kentucky House Banking and Insurance Committee, where he has prioritized strengthening the financial well-being of Kentucky families, according to a statement released by the KY House of Representatives Office of the Speaker of the House.

"His work has focused on balancing robust consumer protections with policies that promote innovation, competition, and increased access to high-quality, affordable banking and insurance products," the statement said.

Meredith said he was honored to represent Kentucky on the national stage as Vice Chair of NCSL’s Banking and Insurance Committee.

“This appointment provides an opportunity to ensure Kentucky’s voice is heard as we work to build policies that protect consumers, encourage responsible growth, and expand access to essential financial and insurance services," he added.

According to the released statement, NCSL’s standing committees bring together legislators and legislative staff from all 50 states to study issues, share best practices, and develop policy positions that guide the organization’s advocacy in Washington, DC.

Meredith added that he looks forward to continuing his work both in Kentucky and nationally. “I remain committed to advancing thoughtful, commonsense policies that support working families, strengthen our financial systems, and make Kentucky an even better place to live and do business.”

Edmonson Voice Report:
District 19 State Representative Michael Lee Meredith filed paperwork this week for re-election to continue representing Edmonson County and part of Warren County. Meredith submitted his filing papers in person at the Secretary of State's office, officially entering the 2026 Republican Primary.

A released statement from his campaign said "Raised on a family farm and guided by the principles he learned there – faith, hard work, and honesty – Meredith has served the families of South-Central Kentucky in Frankfort for over fifteen years. As Chair of the House Banking & Insurance Committee, Meredith has focused on the issues that hit closest to home: good jobs, strong schools, safe communities, and respect for the values that make Kentucky special. Meredith's tenure has delivered real results. He led the successful effort to build a state-of-the-art veterans' nursing home in Bowling Green, fought for better pay and benefits for first responders, helped families afford prescription drugs, and supported expansion of vocational training opportunities in Edmonson County and Bowling Green. As a local banker, he brings a practical understanding of the challenges families and small businesses face."

In the statement, Meredith said that leadership starts with showing up and listening.

"When neighbors need help or businesses need a hand cutting through red tape, I’m in the middle of the work, not watching from the sidelines," he stated. "We’ve made real progress. Our families deserve leaders who are focused on job growth and get things done.”

Meredith's statement said his priorities include:

• Bringing more investments and job growth to Edmonson and Warren counties
• Strengthening workforce development so young people can build their futures here
• Protecting life, faith, and freedom as the community grows
• Defending the values that make Kentucky special: faith, family, and freedom
• Making sure the government serves with less bureaucracy and more common sense

Rep. Meredith was joined by local petitioners Tanya Hodges, retired former Edmonson County Circuit Court Clerk, and local farmer and business owner Andy Alford who both signed in his support.

For more information, visit MeredithForKentucky.com or follow "Elect Michael Lee Meredith 19th District State Representative" on Facebook.

Darren Doyle, story:
A Mammoth Cave woman was arrested on a felony drug charge for the second time within a one-month period.

In a press release issued by the Edmonson County Sheriff's Office, deputies reportedly observed a vehicle traveling on KY Highway 259 North on Saturday, November 29th around noon, and recognized the registered owner as having an active arrest warrant. The active warrant was for Failure to Appear in court, a deputy told the Edmonson Voice.

Gregory was arrested on November 12th and charged with Trafficking in Cocaine and Tampering with Physical Evidence.

A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was identified as Penny Thompson (44) of Auburn, who was found to be operating the vehicle on a DUI-suspended operator’s license, and the passenger, Rose Gregory (43) of Mammoth Cave, was identified as the vehicle’s owner and was confirmed to have an active arrest warrant, according to the Sheriff's Office.

The released statement said that during the encounter, deputies observed drug paraphernalia in plain view which led to a probable-cause search of the vehicle. The search resulted in the discovery of additional drug paraphernalia, along with substances believed to be methamphetamine and crack cocaine, according to the Sheriff's Office.

A subsequent search of Ms. Gregory’s person revealed further concealed drug paraphernalia, the Sheriff's Office stated, and both individuals were taken into custody without incident and transported to the Hart County Jail.

Rose Gregory was arrested and charged with:

• Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense (Methamphetamine)
• Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense (Cocaine)
• Tampering with Physical Evidence
• Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possess

Penny Thompson was arrested and charged with Driving on a DUI-Suspended License, 1st Offense. She was released on bond. Gregory remains in jail on a $10,000 cash bond, according to the Hart County Jail.

Darren Doyle, story:
Edmonson County Schools are closed today as a result of hazardous winter road conditions, according to Superintendent Brian Alexander.

“While some of the main roads are clear, the majority of side roads in the northern part of the county are snow covered,” he said. “And with temps dropping throughout the early morning hours, black ice is a strong possibility.”

It will be NTI day number one. An announcement will be made later on Tuesday night's Wildcat basketball season opener.

Peytin Manor, photos:
Santa and all his helpers packed downtown Brownsville on Sunday, November 29th for the annual Lions Club Christmas Parade. A large crowd came out to be part of the festivities, despite temps being in the low 30s. 

Parade winners in various categories were as follow:
Best in Show: American Eagle (neon train)
Emergency Vehicle: Wingfield Fire Dept.
Commercial Division: Halsell's Appliance Repair
Civic Division: Camp Joy
Antique Car: Earl Talley, Cody Vincent
School Division: ECHS Band