Author: Carlyle Coppins

AJ’s Restaurant and Bar serves up community support amid SNAP uncertainty

BARREN COUNTY, Ky. – When Alex Goldsmith opened AJ’s Restaurant and Bar six months ago, her goal was to create more than a place to eat – she wanted to build a community hub. Now, with uncertainty surrounding SNAP benefits, she’s doing just that. Goldsmith has launched a “Soup Wednesday” initiative where anyone can enjoy a warm meal and pay…

Students at W.R. McNeill Elementary honor veterans

GLASGOW, Ky.- Schools across South Central Kentucky are helping the next generation understand the importance of Veterans Day through lessons and ceremonies. At W.R. McNeill Elementary, students filled the gymnasium to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The school’s “We the People” club shared why they love the United States and highlighted the freedoms citizens enjoy…

Veterans honored at Glasgow ceremony despite the weather

GLASGOW, Ky.- The Glasgow Chapter of the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary and the Barren County Veterans Association celebrated Veterans Day at the South Central Kentucky Cultural Center on Monday, despite cold and rainy weather. The event drew community members, veterans, and families together to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Amber Shockley, commander of the Disabled…

Three educators inducted into Governor Louie B. Nunn Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. -The Governor Louie B. Nunn Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame honored three outstanding educators this week for their lasting impact on students across the Commonwealth. Lois Chandler, Jennifer Fritsch, and Julie Cowan were recognized for decades of dedication, creativity, and compassion in the classroom. Chandler, who devoted 56 years to education before her passing, was remembered for…

7-year-old leukemia survivor spreads hope after beating the odds

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.- A local 7-year-old girl is inspiring her community after bravely overcoming a long battle with leukemia. Avery Paynter was diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, or ALL, when she was just 3 years old. Her early symptoms included fatigue, fever and bruising, but her family never imagined the diagnosis that would follow. Avery’s grandmother, Patti Paynter, remembers…

The Bowling Green Fire Department’s Training Academy is laying the groundwork for the next generation

BOWLING GREEN, KY.- The Bowling Green Fire Department’s Training Academy is laying the groundwork for the next generation of firefighters through its intensive 16-weekend program. The academy begins with the basics — teaching fire behavior, water supply, and forcible entry — to build a strong foundation for recruits. Assistant Chief of Training Shannon Pardue said many participants arrive with little or…

Porter Parish Grainger Blues Festival to launch in Bowling Green

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.- A new blues festival is coming to Kentucky, celebrating the deep roots and lasting influence of African American music. The Jack Dappa Blues Heritage Preservation Foundation is launching the Porter Parish Grainger Blues Festival in Bowling Green later this month. The three-day event will feature live performances, workshops and panel discussions highlighting the legacy of Black musicians….

Doug Gorman files for re-election

WARREN COUNTY, Ky. – Local elections are officially underway, and News 40 was there as a familiar face kicked off the campaign season. For decades, Doug Gorman has served Bowling Green and Warren County in a variety of leadership roles. This week, the Warren County judge-executive filed for re-election, emphasizing his goals of responsible budgeting and community development. Gorman said…

Kentucky residents receiving SNAP benefits will continue to see payments

BARREN COUNTY, KY – Kentucky residents receiving SNAP benefits will continue to see payments despite the ongoing federal government shutdown. According to the nonprofit Bridge Kentucky, a federal judge has ordered the continuation of food assistance after the state filed a lawsuit against the federal government. The ruling ensures that November SNAP benefits will still be funded, though only at…