July reflected remembrance, public safety concerns, leadership transitions, and the early stages of long-term infrastructure planning across the region.
- Mike Cherry Memorial Highway: Community members from across the Jackson Purchase gathered in Crittenden County to honor the late Mike Cherry — a Navy veteran, longtime state lawmaker, devoted husband and father — as more than five miles of U.S. 641 were officially dedicated in his name.
- Extreme Heat Warning Issued: The National Weather Service upgraded forecasts to an Extreme Heat Warning as heat indices were expected to reach 110–115 degrees, prompting warnings about heightened risks of heat-related illnesses.
- Historic Weber Street Property Surplussed: Christian County Fiscal Court unanimously voted to surplus the property at 521 Weber Street, leaving its future open to either historic preservation or demolition for expanded space.
- Kevin Atwood Retires, Relocates: After nearly 21 years leading the Bank of Cadiz Trust & Company, longtime CEO Kevin Atwood retired and relocated to Dallas to be closer to family, marking the end of a decades-long banking career in Trigg County.
- Cadiz Wastewater Project Begins: Cadiz City Council approved early steps toward a new wastewater treatment plant, including flow meter installations and procurement planning, with officials stressing the long-term nature of the project.
August highlighted milestone anniversaries, leadership changes, civic decisions, and renewed focus on remembrance and development.
- Pennyrile Doll Club Turns 45: The Pennyrile Doll Club celebrated its 45th anniversary, honoring the legacy of its original founders while current members reflected on decades of friendship and shared craftsmanship.
- Gander Crash Monument Planned: Hopkinsville announced plans for a new memorial honoring the 248 Fort Campbell soldiers killed in the Gander crash, featuring 256 stars to represent each life lost, and an eternal flame to be revealed in December.
- MSU President Visits Trigg County: Murray State President Dr. Ron Patterson visited Trigg County as part of his statewide listening tour, meeting with educators, civic leaders, and community organizations.
- Ralph K. Thomas Honored: A plaque was unveiled at the Trigg County Recreation Complex naming the Lady Wildcats softball field in honor of the late longtime youth coach Ralph K. Thomas.
- CCPS Lowers Real Estate Tax Rate: Christian County Public Schools approved a two-cent reduction in real estate taxes while keeping other rates unchanged, maintaining one of the lowest tax structures in Kentucky.
- Sheriff’s Race Takes Shape: Mike Sandbrink announced his candidacy for Trigg County sheriff, setting up a 2026 rematch with incumbent and Trigg County native Aaron Acree.
- Melior Development Revived: Cadiz City Council approved a 10-year, $120,000 tax abatement for Melior Development at a new Main Street location just outside of the city’s main drag, reviving the project ahead of a key state funding deadline.
- School Board Resignations Announced: Trigg County Board of Education members Charlene Sheehan and Clara-Beth Hyde resigned within weeks of each other, prompting upcoming appointments to fill the vacancies.
- Tommy Wade Gym Dedication: The Boys & Girls Club of Hopkinsville-Christian County dedicated its newly renovated gymnasium in honor of Tom and Wanda Wade, bringing together generations of community connections.
September brought courtroom conclusions, statewide recognition, leadership transitions, and concern over future funding for senior services.
- Senior Nutrition Funding Warning: Pennyrile Area Development District officials were notified of funding limitations for senior meal programs due to expiring federal COVID-19 relief funds and reduced future allocations, leading to a scramble of solutions.
- Trigg Seniors Shine at Pennyrile Games: Trigg County seniors earned awards for Most Improved and Most Participation at the Pennyrile Senior Games, accounting for more than 17 percent of all competitors.
- ICE Detainees Prompt Jail Changes: Christian County Jail approved 24/7 healthcare services in preparation for housing up to 100 ICE detainees, requiring increased medical oversight.
- Bobby Spikes Convicted: A Christian County jury found Bobby Spikes guilty in the murders of Candace Marcel and Stanley Bussell, recommending two concurrent life sentences without parole.
- Knight and Hale Origin Story Shared: At the Trigg County Chamber of Commerce annual dinner, businessman Harold Knight recounted how a chance turkey hunt led to the founding of Knight and Hale Game Calls and a decades-long partnership.
- HWEA CEO Announces Retirement: Hopkinsville Water Environment Authority President and CEO Derrick Watson announced plans to retire at year’s end after overseeing major infrastructure expansions and improvements.
- New School Board Members Appointed: Trigg County Public Schools appointed Jim Mullen and Jamie Gapp to fill vacant Board of Education seats following recent resignations.
- Distinguished Alumni Weekend Announced: Trigg County announced its newest Distinguished Alumni class, recognizing leaders in agriculture, law, business, education, and community service. This year’s inductees include agriculture businessman Bob Brame, late western Kentucky farmer Firmon Cook, 56th Circuit Judge Jamus Redd, Professor and community Lee Woodruff, businesswoman Phoebe Jones-Venable, and the late Terry Scott Duncan.
