Author: Hayden Ballinger

The Community Foundation awards 2026 South Central Kentuckian of the Year

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The Community Foundation of South Central Kentucky hosted a luncheon at the Knicely Conference Center to honor this year’s South Central Kentuckian of the Year. This year’s award was presented to Mickeye Murphy and her late husband, Mike Murphy. Organizers say the honor recognizes individuals who demonstrate generosity, civic responsibility and a strong commitment to the…

Warren County Public Library hosts local election forum

BOWLING GREEN, Ky – The Warren County Public Library hosted a forum Monday night for candidates running in the local sheriff and jailer races. All four candidates opened the event with brief remarks before taking part in a question-and-answer session. Topics included budgeting, conduct and priorities for each position. Organizers say events like this help inform voters ahead of the…

Douglas Keen, Hugh Poland Halls set for demolition at WKU

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – On Thursday, Western Kentucky University said goodbye to two of its oldest residence halls. The university plans to demolish Douglas Keen Hall and Hugh Poland Hall and invited students, alumni and staff to take part in a farewell event. The event featured a memory wall where attendees could share their favorite moments, along with giveaways and…

The Capitol hosts ‘Farm to Front Porch’

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The Capitol hosted an event Tuesday night called “Farm to Front Porch.” The event, hosted by Telia Butler, featured guests including Pennyroyal Market owner Laura Gilbert, Ace Coffee and The Dive owner Leticia Cline, and “The Pie Queen” Bre Golliher. Organizers say the event focused on sharing the stories of female leaders in south-central Kentucky, giving…

Ribbon cutting for Morgantown Bank & Trust new main office

MORGANTOWN, Ky. – On Tuesday, Morgantown Bank & Trust celebrated the opening of its new main office with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. The building officially opened March 24, but Tuesday marked the bank’s celebration with the community. “It’s been a really fun project. It’s been the talk of local restaurants and barber shops … people asking what we’ve been working…

Bowling Green Youth Orchestra celebrates 25th anniversary

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The Bowling Green Youth Orchestra celebrated its 25th anniversary with a special concert Monday night. The orchestra is made up of more than 60 students from across south-central Kentucky and parts of Tennessee. The performance featured four pieces, each conducted by a music director who has played a role in the program’s 25-year history. “It just…

DSSKY hosts seventh annual Pre-Derby Gala

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Down Syndrome of South Central Kentucky hosted its seventh annual Pre-Derby Gala on Friday night. The Kentucky Derby-themed fundraiser raises money for the Buddy House. The event began with a cocktail hour and dinner before transitioning into games and an auction featuring sports memorabilia, artwork created by Buddy House participants and other items. Organizers say events…

Norton Leatherman Spine Center surgeon makes history

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – A surgeon with Norton Leatherman Spine Center is making history with next-generation technology.  Dr. Jeffrey L. Gum became the first person in the world to perform spine surgery using a robotic-assisted platform known as the ‘Medtronic Stealth Axis Surgical System.’ Experts say the system is designed to provide greater precision and accuracy than previous technology. “Overall, the…

Blood drive held at Western Kentucky University

BOWLING GREEN, Ky – Western Kentucky University partnered with the American Red Cross to host its annual blood drive at the Preston Center this week. Organizers say it is the largest blood drive in both Kentucky and Tennessee. The three-day event began Tuesday and is expected to collect between 1,200 and 1,400 units of blood. Each unit of blood can…