Author: Carlyle Coppins

Bowling Green Junior High launches JAG Program to build students’ futures

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. -Bowling Green Junior High School has added a new program aimed at breaking down barriers for students and preparing them for success beyond the classroom. The initiative is part of the national Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) Career Association,  which begins in seventh grade and continues through high school. Students are selected based on teacher, counselor and…

Musician from Bowling Green makes difference through his new foundation

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Vito Tisdale, better known as “Big V” from the Grammy-nominated group Nappy Roots, is stepping back onto the scene—but not just for the music. The Bowling Green native has turned his energy toward mental health advocacy, youth empowerment and community-building. Now the CEO of Working Class and the Tisdale Foundation, Big V says his mission is…

Feel Good Friday: Red Cross Elementary teacher builds 3D-printed hand for student, inspires confidence for the future

BARREN COUNTY, KY.- Jackson Farmer, a fourth grader at Red Cross Elementary, was born without his right hand, but thanks to his STEM teacher, he now has a 3D-printed prosthetic designed just for him. Before receiving the new hand, Jackson used a non-functional version with limited use. His teacher, Scott Johnson, spent over 30 hours creating the prosthetic, which cost…

WKU names new multi-purpose facility after Tim and Sarah Ford

BOWLING GREEN, KY.- Western Kentucky University has officially named its new multi-purpose facility the Tim and Sarah Ford Fieldhouse. The 120,000-square-foot building honors the Fords for their contributions to WKU athletics and student life. Tim Ford, a former WKU athlete, and his wife Sarah have committed both funding and personal support to the university. Faculty and staff say the couple’s dedication…

Child Passenger Safety Week highlights importance of proper car seat use

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – It’s Child Passenger Safety Week, and Safe Seats Safe Kids is working hard to educate parents on the importance of proper car seat use—completely free of charge. The organization is providing hands-on learning experiences for families to ensure children are safe and secure while riding in vehicles. Rayvionna Sivils, a mom of two, attended one of…

Chick-fil-A set to open in Glasgow, led by former teen employee turned owner

GLASGOW, Ky.- Opening day for the Chick-fil-A in Glasgow is right around the corner, and for owner-operator Sarah Jane Cobb, it’s a full-circle moment. Cobb began her journey with the company at just 15 years old, working part-time in a Chick-fil-A restaurant. After college, she pursued a career in journalism before returning to the brand that had helped shape her…

Women’s Fund uplifts nonprofits across south-central Kentucky

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.- The Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky and its Women’s Fund are making powerful investments in local nonprofits, including Junior Achievement of South Central Kentucky and Habitat for Humanity, working to improve lives throughout the region. Matt Sheffield, development officer at Habitat for Humanity, the Family Enrichment Center and Barren River Area Safe Space, Inc., emphasized the…

Barren County Schools receives $400,000 Opioid Recovery Grant

BARREN COUNTY, Ky. – Barren County Schools have received a major boost in the form of a $400,000 opioid recovery grant aimed at supporting families throughout the county, including those in the Caverna area. The funds will allow the district to partner with The Resilience Factor and a program called Alternate Response to connect with families in need. Shelly Thomas,…

The Center for Courageous Kids hosting 4th annual Bourbon Raffle

SCOTTSVILLE, Ky. – A hidden gem in Scottsville is giving the community a unique chance to help every child experience the joys of summer camp. The Center for Courageous Kids is hosting its fourth annual Bourbon Raffle, and all proceeds will go directly toward supporting children who attend the camp. Anyone can enter the raffle, and 100% of the funds…

Farm to Table program at Barren Co. Schools inspires, ag commissioner visits district

BARREN COUNTY, Ky.- Elementary schools across Kentucky— including Red Cross, Park City and Austin Tracy — are celebrating Ag Education Week by showcasing the success of their student-grown vegetable gardens. Students are growing fresh produce like green beans, tomatoes, squash, zucchini and cucumbers, which they even get to enjoy during lunchtime. Lily Crowe, a fifth grader, proudly shared some of…