Darren Doyle, story and photos:
The "Light the Square" event is set for Saturday, November 23rd from 5PM to 7PM and presented by the Edmonson County Art Guild.

Over a dozen trees are set up now around the Courthouse yard and north side of the Community Center building. Some have some decorations yet to come while others are fully decorated and ready for the lighting.

In addition to the guild, the event is sponsored in part by the Lions Club, Public Library, Extension Office, Homemakers, 4-H, and Youth Services Center.

Edmonson Voice Report:
Two Bee Spring men were recently recognized for each serving 50 years in the Washington Meredith Masonic Lodge 355 F & AM.

Hulen Sanders and Johnnie Davis have been members of the Brownsville lodge for 50 years.

They each received a gold membership card and a commemorative pin, which was presented by past Master, Larry Woodcock.

Darren Doyle, story:
The showtime for the popular musical "Annie" is soon approaching in Bowling Green, presented by BGOnStage and featured at the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center (SKyPAC).

The show not only will feature some of the area's most talented students, but also four from Edmonson County, including the lead role of Annie, played by local 5th grader, Eleni Pierce (pronounced Eh-Laynee)

Eleni is the daughter of Chad and Jenny Pierce of Bowling Green and Jenny shared with us some of the story behind Eleni's journey to this leading role.

She said Eleni was actually humming and singing before she could even talk and that they knew Eleni had a unique gift.

"I'm not sure where all her talent came from, because I know she didn't get it from me," Jenny jokingly said. "She tried out for a role in "Charlotte's Web," which was also a BGOnStage Production when she was in the second grade. Then, a couple years ago, we went to see a production of "Annie" in Louisville and she fell in love with it."

That's when Eleni decided she wanted to play Annie herself, if the opportunity ever arose. She began learning songs and practicing parts for the musical with her vocal teacher, so when they heard the news that the production was coming to town, she was already prepared for the tryout.

With over 100 kids vying for parts from schools all over the region, getting the call that would offer Eleni the part was obviously very emotional.

"She started crying, she was so overwhelmed," Jenny said. "She couldn't believe it."

Eleni said all the parts are filled with very talented students that are putting on a quality production.

"It's going to be a really fun show filled with talented people," Eleni said.

An Edmonson County High School sophomore has earned the role of another major character in the same production.

Xavier Gravil, the son of Wymon and Shauna Gravil of Bee Spring, will be playing the role of Daddy Warbucks.  Wymon said Xavier has been involved in theater since he was in 5th or 6th grade.

"It's something he's been interested in for a while and of course, I'm going to brag on him, but he's done well in several different roles.

Those roles started in an elementary school play then moved onto the Xclaim! Theater, a nonprofit group in Bowling Green for youth, where he played Grandpa Joe in a production of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory."

He then joined the drama team at ECHS when he was a freshman, playing roles in "The Wizard of Oz," and numerous others, along with additional BGOnStage productions.

Xavier continues to seek other theatrical opportunities in the area as well.

"He's not interested in going to Hollywood or anything like that," Wymon said. "In fact, he's said he wants to be a doctor. We just know he's really enjoying this right now."

Also in the production is Willow Cassady, the 8 year-old daughter of Craig and Erica Cassady. While the Cassadys reside in Bowling Green, they have strong Edmonson County ties with Willow being the granddaughter of Donald and JoAnn Cassady of Chalybeate, and Mark and Theresa Ashley of Bee Spring.

Willow is playing a role in the "Annie" ensemble and the understudy of another main character, which is a fill-in in the event the main character cannot fulfill their duties.

Willow's dad, Craig, credits his wife for her musical and acting talent, as Erica was the musical director at Greenwood High School, who heavily influenced Willow.

"She got started in school musicals and played a role in a Sponge Bob musical where she played Gary the Snail," Craig said. "She's just sort of hooked, I guess you could say."

This will be her second BGOnStage production, with the first being "Honk, Jr.," with whom she also appeared with Xavier Gravil.

"The tryout was really difficult and it was like a four or five hour day," Craig said. "It consisted of a cold read from the show, and then they let her do parts she had practiced from songs and a short choreography piece."

Willow currently takes voice lessons and attends regular theater camps and is preparing for dance lessons as well, her dad said.

"Growing up in school administration, I know the importance that sports have on kids' lives, but I think we sometimes overlook other activities where kids can thrive," Craig said. "Studies have shown that extra activities are better for kids and we need to push kids in some of these different directions."

Another actor in the production of "Annie" is Addelyn VanMeter, the 11 year-old daughter of Jamie and Jessica Wilson of Chalybeate. Addelyn is a 6th grade student at the Edmonson County 5/6 Center. While she is relatively new to these types of productions, those around her discuss her talent and her knack for performing.

"We saw she had a natural talent for acting and singing," said her mother, Jessica. "She had a lead role in an Edmonson County Arts Council production of "The Best Little Christmas Pageant Ever," and after that, we started looking for other opportunities."

She said Addelyn then earned roles in other BGOnStage productions like "The Rainbow Fish," two different roles in "Honk, Jr.," playing a role and in the ensemble, and now "Annie," where she plays the lead orphan, "Duffy."

Jessica said her tryout process was similar to others, with a 4-5 hour day, reading, choreography, and singing a one-minute cut of a song.

"She practices with BGOnStage three to four days per week, every week," Jessica said. "She just seems to have a knack for it. She plays sports, too, but she really shines at this."

She also added that Addelyn even has aspirations of someday moving to New York and becoming an actor on Broadway.

Kids throughout Edmonson County are now thriving in many different activities other than sports. Students in EC can now participate in agriculture, fishing, archery, academic, and skilled trades, on top of sports, arts, and music.

"Annie" will be presented on Friday, December 6th at the SKyPAC Theater in downtown Bowling Green with showtime starting at 6:30PM. Tickets are still available.

Click here to purchase tickets.

Editor's note: The first version of this article unintentionally omitted one of the local actors. We unknowingly did not have all of the available information at the time of publishing. We have since spoken with all four parents of the actors and have updated the article accordingly. We apologize for the omission.

Edmonson County Public Library (ECPL) invites families and community members to celebrate the holiday season at their Christmas Bazaar on Thursday, November 23rd, from 10 AM to 1 PM. This festive event, packed with holiday activities and treats, is completely free and open to everyone.

Highlights of the Christmas Bazaar include:

• Photos with Santa: Capture a special moment with Santa himself! Families can enjoy a complimentary holiday photo.
  
• Grinch Station: Stop by to meet our mischievous friend from Whoville, perfect for adding a bit of “Grinchy” fun to your holiday experience.
• Santa Letter Station: Kids can write their wish lists and letters to Santa, complete with a special mailbox for direct delivery to the North Pole.
  
• Adopt an Elf Station: Bring some holiday magic home by “adopting” a Christmas elf to care for throughout the season.
• Complimentary Coffee and Hot Cocoa Bar: Warm up with our coffee and hot cocoa bar, complete with marshmallows, whipped cream, and festive toppings.

"This event promises to bring the community together for a heartwarming morning filled with holiday spirit, creativity, and memorable moments," said Library Director Alecia Edwards. "ECPL is excited to provide a space for families to kick off the season with activities that inspire joy and connection."

"Please mark your calendars for November 23rd, and come join the Christmas cheer at Edmonson County Public Library’s Christmas Bazaar," she added.

One bedroom duplex for rent on Sulphur Road in Chalybeate. Near South Edmonson Elementary and Chalybeate Park. Water is included in rent. No pets permitted. Rent is $500 per month with a $500 security deposit. Please call or text 270-791-0945. 

Requests for applications can be emailed to [email protected], or by clicking either photo below.

Darren Doyle, story:
Santa's Helping Hands, INC., has issued guidance for receiving assistance from the charitable organization for 2024.

The guidelines are published below:

Letter deadline is November 20th.

All proceeds will go to assist local families in need for the holiday season.

Are you looking for a move in ready home on a little acreage with some privacy? Then look no further! This 14 acre, surveyed hobby farm is partially fenced, and hosts a spring fed pond, in addition to several outbuildings that are perfect for animals, storage, or both.

The brick ranch styled, one level home has been recently updated with fresh paint, new flooring, and updated electrical and plumbing fixtures throughout. The custom fireplace provides a focal point for the main living space, giving it a cozy and inviting ambience Unique butcher block countertops, and refurbished cabinetry, make this kitchen a one of a kind work space, while the semi open floor plan gives it an open feeling, perfect for hosting friends and family.

Located at 2091 Morgantown Road, Brownsville, KY, 42210.

Visit the full listing here with all the details and tons of photos!

Check out the Edmonson Voice Facebook Page for your chance to win a $100 gift card to Stacy's on Main just for sharing this listing!

Contact Shauna Gravil, Realtor today for your private showing!

Edmonson Voice Report:
An additional local resident has been nominated as a candidate for WKU’s Homecoming Queen, 2024.

Kaylee Russell, a 2021 graduate of Edmonson County High School, is one of 41 students nominated. She is the daughter of Chad Russell and Brandy Meredith.

She is sponsored by College of Education and Behavioral Sciences Ambassadors, according to WKU. She is also an English for Secondary Teachers major at Western Kentucky University.

She is one of two candidates from Edmonson County; MaKaylee Thompson of Pig was also named.

The queen will be crowned at halftime of WKU’s Homecoming game against LA Tech on  November 16th. Kickoff is set for 11 AM CST at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. This year’s Homecoming theme is “Roaring Red.”

Candidates will participate in several activities during Homecoming Week, including a fall social on Sunday (Nov. 10), an interview on Tuesday (Nov. 12), a banquet on Wednesday (Nov. 13), a volunteer experience , and on Friday (Nov. 15) at 5:00 PM will join the homecoming parade and Big Red’s Roar pep rally at Fountain Square Park. 

WKU students cast their votes for queen in online balloting on November 11th. 

For more about WKU’s 2024 Homecoming, visit http://alumni.wku.edu/homecoming

Christmas in Chalybeate is an annual event hosted by the Chalybeate Volunteer Fire Department is set for Saturday, November 16, 2024. Vendors of all types will be present including crafts, ornaments, clothing, food - all located conveniently inside for easy shopping at one location.

A local massage therapist will also be on site and look for Santa while you're there.

Precious Memories Photography will be onsite offering Christmas photo packages from 11 AM until 2:30 pm.  Various food trucks available including Twin Lakes Creamery and Grill, The Local Lemon, and Pelican's Snoballs North Bowling Green.

Edmonson Voice Report:
A local resident has been nominated as a candidate for WKU’s Homecoming Queen. MaKaylee Thompson, is one of 41 students nominated. She is the daughter of Michael and Sherrell Thompson of the Pig community.

MaKaylee is a Junior in the Recreation, Parks, and Non-Profit Administration Major. She is a graduate of Edmonson County High School, graduating with honors and a 4.0 GPA. 

She is one of two candidates from Edmonson County; Kaylee Russell was also nominated.

The queen will be crowned at halftime of WKU’s Homecoming game against LA Tech on  November 16th. Kickoff is set for 11 AM CST at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. This year’s Homecoming theme is “Roaring Red.”

Candidates will participate in several activities during Homecoming Week, including a fall social on Sunday (Nov. 10), an interview on Tuesday (Nov. 12), a banquet on Wednesday (Nov. 13), a volunteer experience , and on Friday (Nov. 15) at 5:00 PM will join the homecoming parade and Big Red’s Roar pep rally at Fountain Square Park. 

WKU students will cast their votes for queen in online balloting on November 11th. 

For more about WKU’s 2024 Homecoming, visit http://alumni.wku.edu/homecoming

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