Unofficial election results from November 3, 2026, show Athena Cooper Bradshaw has won the election for District Judge of the 40th Judicial District, Division 2, defeating her opponent, Tom Simmons.  

Bradshaw secured a decisive victory across the district, capturing a total of 7,991 votes to Simmons's 3,754, winning by a margin of 4,237 votes.  

A county-by-county breakdown of the unofficial results provided by Kentucky Secretary of State indicates:  

Russell County: Bradshaw led with 4,328 votes, while Simmons received 486 votes.  

Wayne County: Bradshaw tallied 2,234 votes, ahead of Simmons's 2,166 votes.  

Clinton County: Bradshaw secured 1,429 votes, compared to 1,102 votes for Simmons.  

The results currently remain unofficial as election tallies await final certification.  

A joint effort by local emergency agencies resulted in the successful airlift of a 17-year-old male who suffered a broken leg on a remote lake bed Tuesday afternoon.

?At approximately 2:30 p.m., Russell County Search & Rescue was dispatched alongside the Russell County Sheriff's Department and Russell County EMS following a call routed through Russell County Dispatch. Responders trekked roughly one mile from the nearest access point across an exposed section of the lake bed—an area normally submerged under water during peak summer pool levels.

?Upon locating the teenager, medical personnel stabilized his injuries. Due to the rough terrain and distance from the access point, officials determined that a ground carryout presented unnecessary safety risks to the patient and opted to call in an air medical helicopter.

?The helicopter landed safely on a dry patch of the lake bed, allowing the flight crew and ground teams to rapidly transfer the patient for transport to a regional medical center for definitive care.

?"This incident highlights the value of strong coordination between emergency services," Russell County Search & Rescue said in a release, commending the seamless response between dispatchers, deputies, EMS, flight crews, and rescue personnel.

?The teenager's condition has not been publicly released.

FRANKFORT, KY (Nov. 2, 2026) – During Crash Responder Safety Week, Nov. 2-6, Team Kentucky reminds drivers to slow down, move over and drive safely when approaching an emergency vehicle or disabled vehicle on the roadside displaying flashing lights, cones or reflectors. Behind every stopped vehicle are Kentuckians who are helping or being helped, and who deserve to make it home safely to their family.

“Our first responders put their lives on the line every day to help Kentuckians, often during some of their most difficult moments,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Let’s do all we can to protect each other and protect those who keep us safe by slowing down and moving over when you see flashing lights on the side of the road.”

Kentucky expanded its Slow Down, Move Over law in July 2024 to protect anyone stopped on the roadside. Drivers must move over a lane if possible or slow down when approaching stationary vehicles displaying flashing lights or warning signals.

“Everyone deserves to get home safely, including the people working along our roadways,” said Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Goodman. “When you see flashing lights or a vehicle stopped along the road, slow down, move over and give them room. Taking a few extra seconds to keep someone safe can make all the difference.”

Every year, lives are put at risk when drivers fail to slow down or move over for first responders. In Kentucky, over the past three years, crashes involving emergency vehicles in response to an incident resulted in more than 800 collisions, more than 290 injuries and six deaths.

2026 JIM BLAIR PUMPKIN TRAIL CONTEST WINNERS

1ST PLACE - MAYOR PAM HOOTS

Congratulations to Columbia Mayor Pam Hoots for her beautiful, hand-painted floral pumpkin!

$150 CASH PRIZE

A HUGE thank-you to Gaddie Shamrock for generously sponsoring our first-place prize of $150! We appreciate your support of our community!

2ND PLACE - KRISTYNE GILBERT

Congratulations to Kristyne Gilbert for her fantastic Frankenstein pumpkin! What a fun and spooky creation!

$75 CASH PRIZE

A special thank-you to Dog Gone Classy for donating the $75 second-place prize! We are grateful for your generosity!

3RD PLACE - DE'ASIA FISHERS

Congratulations to De'Asia Fishers for her creative Cheshire Cat pumpkin! That mischievous grin certainly caught everyone's attention!

$25 CASH PRIZE

Thank you to our anonymous donor for generously providing the $25 third-place prize! Your kindness is greatly appreciated!

SPECIAL HONORARY MENTION - CASH THRASHER & MAKAYLA JANES

We have a little Pumpkin Trail mystery with a very happy ending!

Cash Thrasher and his mother, Makayla Janes, created an awesome IT the Clown pumpkin to enter our contest. However, through an innocent mix-up, a family member accidentally dropped off their pumpkin with the entries for Bruss North America's pumpkin decorating contest!

As luck would have it, Bruss was setting up for its company picnic on the very same day we were accepting pumpkins for the Jim Blair Pumpkin Trail. After a little investigating, we figured out what happened, and everyone had a good laugh!

But here's the BEST PART…

CASH'S PUMPKIN WON 1ST PLACE IN BRUSS NORTH AMERICA'S CONTEST

So even though Cash's IT the Clown pumpkin never officially made it into our Pumpkin Trail contest, it still came out a WINNER! 

We want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Gaddie Shamrock, Dog Gone Classy, our anonymous donor, all of our pumpkin artists, Adair County Recycling Center, Adair County Class D, Adair County Tourism, and everyone who helped make this year's Jim Blair Pumpkin Trail possible.

The Russell County High School Mighty Laker Band is rallying its community to support a grieving family following a profound tragedy.

The band will host a Community Performance and Soup Dinner Fundraiser on Tuesday, November 3, with all proceeds from the dinner directly supporting a student of the Dobyns-Bennett High School Band in Tennessee.

The fundraiser comes in the wake of a devastating tragedy involving the Dobyns-Bennett band family. The student's parents, Brandi Elmore and Brian Elmore, were tragically killed while returning home from a Bands of America event on November 2.

In response, the Russell County Band has stepped forward to offer financial help, thoughts, prayers, and solidarity during this unimaginably difficult time.

Event Details

Date: Tuesday, November 3

Soup Dinner: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Cost is $5, which includes a bowl of soup, dessert, and drink)

Band Performance & Senior Recognition: 6:30 PM

Community members, families, and supporters are encouraged to attend the dinner and stay for the community performance to help raise funds. 
 

The Columbia Police Department, led by Chief of Police Evan Burton, released its official activity figures for October 2026 on Monday, November 2nd.  

• 812 calls for police service & public contacts
• 71 citations issued
• 25 motorist assists
• 11 escorts
• 9 criminal cases opened  
• 27 accidents investigated
• 2 injury accidents 
• 12 E-call/Incident reports

Department Training, Community Outreach, and Patrols

Beyond routine calls and traffic safety, CPD officers participated in professional development, community involvement, and specialized patrols throughout October.

Professional Development: Lieutenant Justin Cross completed 40 hours of DOCJT In-Service Training in Bowling Green, Kentucky, focusing on Current Leadership Issues for the Mid-Level Executive. School Resource Officer Corey Meyer completed DOCJT Online In-Service Training.  

Community Engagement: The department observed National Bullying Prevention Month and donated clothing items to Joy Ministries.  

Special Enforcement Patrols: CPD provided extra patrol coverage for the annual Downtown Days Fall Festival, as well as dedicated extra patrols for Adair County Schools and Lindsey Wilson University.  

Mayor Hoots has details on Monday night's meeting...

Steven Flatt of Columbia - indicted for TBUT (Theft by unlawful Taking) over $1,000 (2 counts) and Persistent Felony Offender 1st degree.

Bradley Hicks of Russell Springs - indicted for TBUT (Theft by unlawful Taking) over $1,000 (2 counts) and Persistent Felony Offender 1st degree.

Indictments are legal accusations and do not determine guilt or innocence.

Early voting numbers in the Commonwealth have seen a significant spike this election cycle, with 438,602 Kentuckians casting their ballots in person or via absentee voting through Saturday, according to figures released by Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams.

The early turnout marks a nearly 30% jump compared to the last midterm election cycle in 2022, when 337,975 voters turned out prior to Election Day. The total also easily surpasses the 313,009 early and absentee votes cast during the 2023 gubernatorial election.

State officials reported smooth operations across polling locations statewide throughout the three-day no-excuse early voting window. Secretary Adams noted that the substantial increase in early participation highlights a growing preference among Kentucky voters for expanded access options introduced in recent years.

With early voting concluded on Saturday, Kentuckians who have not yet voted will cast their ballots on Election Day, Tuesday, November 3. Polls will be open statewide from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time.

Russell County Candidates who participated in our "Meet the Candidates" forum on 92.7...

Jamestown City Council candidates: Richard Bennett, Scottie Weston, & Joey Hoover

Jamestown City Council candidates: Wendel McGowan, Jared Roy & Tony Wright

Jamestown Mayoral candidates: Dwight Richards, Brian Young, & Barry Coffey

RS Mayoral candidates: Eddie Thomas & Cody Wilson

The Adair County High School Marching Band has captured the Kentucky Marching Band Class 3A State Championship, topping off an outstanding competition season for local high school music programs in the region. 

The Marching Band delivered a championship-winning performance during the state finals competition, taking the top spot in Class 3A and bringing the state title home to Adair County for the 25th time.

The Adair County High School Marching Band will showcase its acclaimed 2026 production, "Out of Your Shell," during a special community encore performance on Monday, Nov. 2nd at 7:00 p.m. CST at the Lindsey Wilson University Parnell Family Stadium Field in Columbia. Admission is free and open to the public, though donations supporting the marching band program will be welcomed.

Meanwhile, neighboring Russell County High School also made a strong showing on the state stage. The Russell County Laker Band earned a "Distinguished" rating for their performance, placing 7th overall at the semifinals on Saturday morning.

Congratulations to the student musicians, directors, section leaders, and boosters of both programs for representing their communities with distinction at the state level!

Russell County Hospital has announced the opening of a new pediatric clinic under the umbrella of its Adair Clinic in Columbia.

The new practice will feature Cassandra Justice, APRN, specializing in pediatric care. The clinic is set to officially begin accepting new patients on November 16, 2026.

Located at 805 Burkesville Street in Columbia, the facility aims to expand local healthcare access for children and families in Adair and surrounding counties.

Community members interested in scheduling appointments or seeking more information about pediatric services can contact the clinic directly at 270-380-1335.

The local Search and Rescue (SAR) community is mourning the loss of K9 CJ, a highly decorated tracking and trailing canine assigned to Unit #649, whose dedicated service helped bring answers and hope to families during critical moments.

Although the department's K9 unit is relatively new, officials noted that CJ quickly established herself as much more than a search resource, becoming an integral part of the team and a beloved member of the department family.

Alongside her handler, CJ underwent rigorous training to achieve her Advanced Certification in Tracking and Trailing through the National Police Canine Association / National Narcotics Detector Dog Association (NNDDA). The prestigious credential reflected hundreds of hours of grueling discipline, teamwork, and sharp skill in the field.

"CJ played an important role in the search and rescue community and touched the lives of those who had the privilege of working alongside her," the department shared in an official tribute. "Her work helped bring hope to families during difficult times and demonstrated the incredible bond that exists between a working dog and their partner."

Colleagues and fellow first responders are extending their condolences to CJ’s handler, family, and teammates as they process the loss. While CJ's watch has officially ended, department members emphasized that her legacy and impact on the community will not be forgotten.

CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. (October 31, 2026) – Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 Troopers have arrested a female following an investigation into a report of theft from a local business. 
 

In August 2026, KSP Post 15 received a report of an employee stealing funds from Phoenix Way in Taylor County. Master Trooper Nick Davis responded to the business and launched an investigation into the incident. Trooper Davis learned that Amanda Michelle Atwood, 38, of Campbellsville, KY was employed by Phoenix Way and responsible for the company’s payroll. Trooper Davis uncovered that Ms. Atwood had been issuing fraudulent checks to herself from the company’s bank accounts since December 2025. It was determined that, in total, Ms. Atwood had stolen over $160,000 from Phoenix Way.

In October 2026, the investigation was presented to the Taylor County Grand Jury, which returned an indictment on Amanda Atwood, charging her with 96 counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument - 2nd Degree, 34 counts of Forgery - 2nd Degree, 1 count of Theft by Unlawful Taking - $10,000 to $1,000,000, and 1 count of Theft of Identity.  

On October 28, 2026, Trooper Davis served the indictment on Amanda Atwood.  She was subsequently arrested, lodged in the Taylor County Detention Center, and is being held on a $25,000 bond.

The investigation remains ongoing and is being led by Master Trooper Nick Davis.
 

On Friday, October 30, 2026, the Adair County Sheriff’s Office responded to a suspicious vehicle that had been located in a field on Lampton Lane. The vehicle had been involved in a collision, however no operator could be located. Simultaneous to this, authorities were notified of an escaped inmate from the Adair County Regional Jail Class D Facility.

During the investigation, it was determined that 22-year-old Marcus Lawrence of Bowling Green had escaped custody and stolen a vehicle, before ultimately crashing it. A short time later, Mr. Lawrence was located and taken into custody without incident. He was charged with Escape 2nd Degree, Theft by Unlawful Taking (Auto - over $10,000), and Criminal Mischief 1st Degree. He had been lodged in the Adair County Jail since May 12th, 2026 on Burglary & Theft charges.

Deputy Ricky Shirley made the arrest and was assisted by Deputy Tweedy, Deputy Wall, Sheriff Roy, and members of the Columbia Police Dept.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Oct. 30, 2026) -Today, Gov. Andy Beshear joined the Kentucky State Police (KSP) to honor 40 cadets graduating from the KSP Training Academy, marking the start of their careers as state troopers serving communities across the commonwealth.

“Thank you for your hard work, sacrifice, and commitment to service above self each and every day,” Gov. Beshear said. “All of Kentucky is grateful for the role you will play in keeping our communities safe.”

Cadet Class 107 reported to the KSP Academy on May 17 and completed 24 weeks of intensive academic instruction and practical training designed to prepare them for the challenges of modern law enforcement. Cadets in the class underwent more than 1,000 hours of classroom and field study in subjects such as constitutional law, juvenile and traffic law, use of force, weapons training, defensive tactics, first aid, high speed vehicle pursuit, criminal investigation, computer literacy, hostage negotiations, evidence collection, radio procedures, search and seizure, crash investigation, drug identification, traffic control, crowd control, armed robbery response, electronic crimes, sex crimes, hate crimes, domestic violence, bomb threats and hazardous materials.

During today’s ceremony, KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. commended Cadet Class 107 for their dedication to complete the academy and answer the call to serve the commonwealth: “Becoming a Kentucky State Police Trooper takes grit, determination and a genuine commitment to the people we serve. Each member of this class has demonstrated the ability to rise to challenges and uphold the expectations of this profession.”

Capt. Joey Vorbeck, commander of the KSP Academy, spoke to the importance of developing troopers who possess not only the knowledge and skills needed for the job, but also the judgment and character required to lead and serve: “Throughout their 24 weeks of training, these cadets have faced demanding physical challenges, rigorous coursework and situations that tested their resolve. They have demonstrated tremendous growth and earned the opportunity to take the next step in their careers.”

Cadet Class 107 graduates and their assigned posts are:
 

Post 1, MAYFIELD
Peter Joseph Rougeux, Hilton Head Island, S.C.
 

Post 2, MADISONVILLE      
Eddie Caudill, Hopkinsville, Ky.
Christian Crase, Ardmore, Okla.
Trey Lovell, Greenville, Ky.
Avery Grant Mefford, Browder, Ky.
Kelley Seitz, Oak Grove, Ky.
Roy Wilson, Nortonville, Ky.
 

Post 3, BOWLING GREEN
Blake Aaron Hensley, Glasgow, Ky.
Austin Stinson, Scottsville, Ky.
Daniel Wright, Glasgow, Ky.
 

Post 4, ELIZABETHTOWN
Anthony Cromer, Berea, Ky.
Kaden Henry, Louisville, Ky.
Joseph Moeggenborg, Marquette, Mich.
Peyton Nash, Leitchfield, Ky.
 

Post 5, CAMPBELLSBURG
Jack Thomas Harris, La Grange, Ky.
 

Post 6, DRY RIDGE
Dylan Clise, Morehead, Ky.
Logan Hurt, Frenchburg, Ky.
Patrick Smith, Jacksonville, N.C.

Post 7, RICHMOND
Jonathan Collett, Annville, Ky.
Grayson Domidion, Lancaster, Ky.
Riley Mullins, Jackson, Ky.
Tyler Whitaker, Beattyville, Ky.

Post 8, MOREHEAD
Ryan Davidson, London, Ky.

Post 10, HARLAN
Austin Lewis, Corbin, Ky.
Toni McCombs, Barbourville, Ky.
Jason Nunley, Williamsburg, Ky.

Post 11, LONDON
Zachary Chesnut, London, Ky.
Jacob Loudermilk, Mount Vernon, Ky.

Post 14, ASHLAND
Cayden Bennett, Ashland, Ky.
Tristan Bingham, Mouthcard, Ky.
Aiden Fields, Millstone, Ky.
Logan Lundy, Raceland, Ky.

Post 15, COLUMBIA
Austin Blakeman, Greensburg, Ky.
Adam Melson, Jamestown, Ky.
Maddox Mink, Somerset, Ky.
Zachary Smith, Campbellsville, Ky.
Seth Stockon, Albany, Ky.
Tristan Thomas, Somerset, Ky.

Post 16, HENDERSON
Camden Greer, Boonville, Ind.
Jermaine Poynter Jr., Henderson, Ky.

Several members of the graduating class received special recognition during the ceremony.

Trooper Peyton Nash received the “Ernie Bivens Award.” This honor is presented to a cadet who, in the opinion of the KSP Academy and fellow cadets, shows distinction as a leader, strives for academic excellence and has excelled in all phases of the academy’s physical and vocational training.

The class Valedictorian award, which includes a new 2026 Dodge Durango police cruiser, was awarded to Trooper Peter Rougeux. The Salutatorian was awarded to Trooper Tristan Thomas.

Trooper Christian Crase received the “Commissioner’s Commitment to Excellence Award.” This is presented to the cadet who has demonstrated leadership, the desire to get the job done and is determined to be the best each day.

Thirteen cadets earned their associate degree in General Occupational and Technical Studies from Bluegrass Community and Technical College during their 24 weeks at the training academy. These cadets benefited from the new hiring guidelines established by the state legislature in 2017. Through this revision, anyone who possesses a high school diploma or GED, and has three years of full-time work experience can apply for employment as a KSP Trooper and earn an associate degree during the training process.

Cadet Class 107 graduates who earned an associate degree while at the training academy are:
Cayden Bennett
Tristan Bingham
Jonathan Collett
Anthony Cromer
Kaden Henry
Blake Aaron Hensley
Logan Lundy
Toni McCombs
Maddox Mink
Riley Mullins
Patrick Smith
Zachary Smith
Tyler Whitaker

The Kentucky State Police is dedicated to recruiting, training and supporting a professional, diverse and well-equipped workforce to serve the commonwealth. KSP will welcome the next cadet class to the academy in May 2027. Those interested in pursuing a career as a KSP trooper are encouraged to visit the agency’s website for more information.

For more information about KSP’s commitment to creating a better Kentucky by making the commonwealth’s streets safer, communities stronger and the nation more secure by providing exceptional law enforcement, click here.

The Beshear-Coleman administration’s top priority is the safety of all Kentuckians. The Governor’s public safety actions are creating safer communities and a better Kentucky.

The 2025 Crime in Kentucky Report, released in June, shows that, from 2024 to 2025, reports of serious crime decreased by 8.14%.

For four straight years, overdose deaths have decreased in Kentucky. In 2025, the commonwealth saw 22.9% fewer overdose deaths than the year prior.

Since Gov. Beshear took office, fewer Kentuckians have returned to prison after their release. For two years in a row, recidivism rates in the commonwealth have decreased, meaning that nearly 70% of those released from state custody have not returned.

For more about the Beshear-Coleman administration’s work to build a safer New Kentucky Home, click here.

Cadet Class 107 at the State Capitol Building

FRANKFORT, KY. Oct. 29, 2026 – Chief Justice of the Commonwealth Debra Hembree Lambert will deliver her annual State of the Judiciary address at 11 a.m. EST Thursday, Nov. 5, before the Interim Joint Committee on Judiciary. The meeting is open to the public and will take place in Room 149 of the Capitol Annex in Frankfort.

The State of the Judiciary address is an annual tradition that allows the chief justice to report on the status of Kentucky’s court system and highlight the judiciary’s work in serving the people of the commonwealth.

This year’s address coincides with the 50th anniversary of Kentucky’s unified court system. In 1974, the General Assembly voted to place a landmark constitutional amendment before voters, who approved it Nov. 4, 1975. The reforms took effect beginning Jan. 1, 1976, transforming a collection of more than 300 local courts into a unified, statewide judicial system.

The public can also watch the address via livestream at https://bit.ly/KETLegislature or view the archived meeting at https://bit.ly/KETLegislatureArchive. The recording is usually available within 24 hours.

Chief Justice Lambert began her four-year term in January 2025, becoming the first woman to serve as Kentucky’s chief justice. As the administrative head of the court system, she oversees the operations of Kentucky’s judicial branch.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Oct. 29, 2026) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear provided updates on economic development, Halloween safety tips, medical debt relief, voting information, disaster relief, Cancer Education and Prevention Month and a Kentucky State Police cadet class graduation. First Lady Britainy Beshear provided updates on human trafficking awareness and the Team Kentucky Food Drive. The Governor named young animal advocates and Oldham County students, Ava and Amelia Kellner, this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars. The Governor also wished Kentuckians a happy and safe Halloween and debuted his Halloween costume.

Economic Development 
Once final, with today’s approvals, the Beshear administration has announced nearly 1,400 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling $55 billion in announced investments, creating more than 72,000 jobs to date.

The Governor highlighted a September economic development announcement, when he joined local officials and leaders from Medvantx, a leading pharmacy services company, to cut the ribbon on the company’s newly expanded, high-capacity distribution facility in Louisville. With a nearly $27 million investment, Medvantx is creating 122 new Kentucky jobs helping to distribute prescriptions across Kentucky and the rest of the United States and its territories. Today, Kurt Browning, CEO of Medvantx, joined the Team Kentucky Update to highlight this exciting project.

Gov.?Beshear highlighted continued growth of the state’s site development efforts?as a site in Caldwell County was approved through the Kentucky Product Development Initiative program. The project was approved by the Kentucky Economic Development Finance?Authority for over $350,000 in state funding in?addition to local support.

The Governor announced exciting new momentum within the state’s logistics and automotive industries, as Nissin International Transport U.S.A., a global logistics company specializing in air and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage and warehousing, announced plans to locate a new distribution center in Franklin County, a $14.3 million investment creating 30 quality jobs. 

Gov. Beshear announced exciting momentum within the state’s manufacturing industry as Niagara Bottling, a leading private-label and branded beverage manufacturer, celebrated the grand opening of its new $141 million production facility in Kenton County, a project creating 60 new full-time jobs. The project, which was initially announced in September 2024, has exceeded the original investment amount by over $11 million. 

Gov. Beshear announced continued site and building development efforts throughout the state, as 137 census tracts across 76 Kentucky counties were approved for Opportunity Zone (OZ) 2.0 designation. The OZ program seeks to spur long-term economic development and job creation in overlooked communities, and the Governor recommended the tracts for designation.

Halloween Safety Tips
Gov. Beshear encouraged all Kentuckians to celebrate Halloween safely this weekend and shared safety tips from the Kentucky State Police. Motorists are encouraged to stay alert for increased pedestrian traffic, be patient and slow down. Parents are encouraged to help their children stay visible by giving them flashlights or glowsticks, make sure children exit the vehicle on the curbside of the road if parents are driving, inspect candy before letting children eat it, and teach children how to dial 911 in case of an emergency.

Children are encouraged to only visit homes that have porchlights turned on, never enter a stranger’s home or vehicle, stay on the sidewalk, look both ways before crossing the street, and always listen to a trusted adult. As adults look forward to Halloween parties, the Governor reminded Kentuckians to be safe and drive sober. Plan a sober ride by having a designated driver or using a rideshare app.

The Governor also shared that due to safety concerns with ongoing construction at the state capitol, unfortunately, Team Kentucky will not host trick-or-treating at the Governor’s Mansion this year.

“More than anything else, we want everyone to enjoy a happy and safe Halloween.,” said Gov. Beshear. “This is such a fun time of year for so many. Happy Halloween, everyone.”

Human Trafficking Awareness Posters 
The First Lady announced that Kentucky state office buildings will now display human trafficking awareness posters, in partnership with the First Lady’s Human Trafficking Awareness Coalition. This comes after another announcement by Mrs. Beshear earlier this month, that all nine of Kentucky’s racetracks will now display human trafficking awareness posters in line with signage seen at airports, hotels, convention centers and sports arenas.

The posters were developed by the First Lady’s Office and are available in both English and Spanish. The posters list indicators of human trafficking and contact information for the National Human Trafficking Hotline. The posters are part of an awareness campaign led by the Coalition to increase education on how to spot and report human trafficking. The First Lady shared a Good News update on this announcement.

“Information is our most valuable tool in the fight against human trafficking,” said Mrs. Beshear. “When people are aware of the warning signs, we can protect more lives. Human trafficking is a heinous crime, and I want to end it – in every awful form that it takes. With the progress we’re making here in Kentucky, I know we can make a difference.”

Team Kentucky Food Drive  
The First Lady reminded Kentuckians that the Team Kentucky Food Drive will take place Nov. 1-18. There will be boxes in state office buildings throughout the commonwealth where state employees can donate non-perishable food items. Additionally, the public can drop off donations at 1239 Wilkinson Boulevard in Frankfort on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, Nov. 2-18, from 12:30 to 3 p.m. Donations will be distributed through Feeding Kentucky and its 900 partner pantries. During last year’s drive, more than 12,000 food items were collected.

“Across our commonwealth, 1 in 5 people are facing hunger. Even more heartbreaking, 1 in 4 children are struggling – and the President’s decision to cut SNAP benefits, which 1 in 8 Kentuckians rely on, is making life even harder,” said Mrs. Beshear. “So, if you’re looking for an opportunity to make a difference, I encourage you to donate. Through our first Team Kentucky Food Drive, we saw an overwhelming response to help those in need. I have faith that we can show up for our neighbors again this year.”

Second Round of Medical Debt Relief Complete 
Gov. Beshear announced that a total of $153 million in medical debt has been erased for 67,000 Kentuckians as his administration makes progress toward the relief goal of $250 million through the Team Kentucky Medical Debt Relief Program. Established by the Governor through an executive order in September, the program is set to relieve medical debt for 130,000 eligible individuals across the commonwealth.

Voting Information 
Ahead of the Nov. 3 elections in Kentucky, Gov. Beshear reminded Kentuckians that eligible registered voters without an acceptable form of identification, like a driver’s license, can get a Voter ID card at no cost at Driver Licensing Regional Offices. Offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Governor also reminded Kentuckians that under a new state law, the following forms of identification are no longer valid for voting: SNAP or EBT cards; social security cards; or credit cards. The Governor opposed the law that implemented these changes but wants to ensure Kentuckians are aware of new requirements. Kentuckians that previously used these forms of identification should get a Voter ID card at Driver Licensing Regional Offices.

No-excuse early voting is available to all eligible voters from Thursday, Oct. 29, to Saturday, Oct. 31. To find out where early voting is taking place in your community, visit govote.ky.gov.

In-person voting on election day will take place Tuesday, Nov. 3, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time. Visit govote.ky.gov for locations. Voters who requested an absentee ballot are reminded that their ballots must be returned to their county clerk by 6 p.m. local time on Nov. 3. Dropbox locations can be found at govote.ky gov.

Gov. Beshear also discussed the federal government’s decision to have the Department of Justice send federal election monitors to Louisville and Lexington polling locations. The Governor noted that this is not unique to Kentucky – it's happening across the United States. The Jefferson County and Fayette County Clerks denied consent to federal monitors being inside the polling places. This means federal monitors must remain outside of the polling location – at least 100 feet from the entrance at any polling place. The federal election monitors are not allowed to interfere with, stop, physically block or intimidate voters. Federal election monitors may speak with voters, but only if voters choose to talk to them.

If these federal election monitors go against any of these directives, voters are encouraged to call one of the following resources: the Kentucky Election Law Hotline, the Jefferson County Election Hotline, the National Nonpartisan Election Protection Hotline, or make a report to their local Kentucky State Police Post.

“I am committed to ensuring this is a fair and free election for Americans everywhere,” said Gov. Beshear. “And I encourage every eligible Kentuckian to exercise your right to vote, regardless of your party.”

U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Declaration for June 2026 Storms 
Gov. Beshear announced that his request was approved for a disaster declaration from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) following widespread flooding, tornadoes and severe weather that took place in June of this year. Now, eligible homeowners, businesses and nonprofit organizations in Adair, Bullitt, Clark, Clinton, Cumberland, Estill, Fayette, Garrard, Hardin, Jackson, Jefferson, Jessamine, Madison, Metcalfe, Monroe, Nelson, Rockcastle, Russell and Spencer counties can apply for an SBA disaster loan. The deadline to apply for a loan for physical damage is Dec. 28, 2026, while the deadline to apply for a loan for economic injury is July 26, 2027.

SBA business recovery centers are opening today in Bullitt County at St. Aloysius Church, 187 S. Plum St., Shepherdsville; and in Hardin County at West Point Independent School, 209 N. 13th St., West Point. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Both centers are closed Nov. 3 and Nov. 11 and close permanently at 5 p.m. Nov. 12. Schedule an appointment at appointment.sba.gov. Walk-ins are welcome. Assistance is limited to qualifying damage or economic injury directly related to the June storms. Visit a center to discuss your eligibility and application. Madison and Cumberland County centers will open next week; locations and hours will be announced later this week.

Cancer Education and Prevention Month 
The Governor recognized October as Cancer Education and Prevention Month in Kentucky. The Beshear administration has prioritized fighting cancer by: supporting new cancer centers and hospitals with oncology specialists across the commonwealth; dedicating record funding to pediatric cancer research and family support; and prioritizing screening programs like the Kentucky Colon Cancer Screening & Prevention Program, Lung Cancer Screening Program and the Kentucky Women’s Cancer Screening Program. Dr. Michael Vanderford and Holly Burke with the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and Markey Cancer Center joined the Governor to accept the Cancer Education and Prevention Month proclamation.

“As your Governor, I won’t stop working until every Kentuckian has access to the screenings and treatment they need to beat this disease,” said Gov. Beshear. “I believe healthcare is a basic human right. While the federal government has cut funding for medical research and healthcare coverage, Team Kentucky has stepped up, providing more than $45 million in state funding during my administration for pediatric cancer research, and supporting screening programs that have screened thousands of Kentuckians and saved lives.” 

Kentucky State Police Cadet Class 107 Graduation 
The Governor shared that Kentucky State Police (KSP) Cadet Class 107 will graduate from the KSP Training Academy tomorrow, Oct. 30. The Governor will attend and speak at the graduation. Forty cadets will graduate and report to their posts to begin protecting their communities after receiving 24 weeks of intensive academic instruction and practical training designed to prepare them for the challenges of modern law enforcement.

Gov. Beshear also reminded Kentuckians that applications for Cadet Class 108 close tomorrow, Oct. 30. Any interested and eligible Kentuckian is encouraged to visit JoinKSP.com to apply.

“These soon-to-be troopers will join nearly 900 sworn colleagues and hundreds of civilian employees doing the important work of saving lives – work that has helped us see violent crime fall for two years in a row and overdose deaths decline for four straight years,” said Gov. Beshear. “We are so grateful to those who have stepped into these roles to protect our people and our commonwealth, and we will continue to pray for your safety every day.”

Team Kentucky All-Stars 
The Governor named young animal advocates and Oldham County students, Ava and Amelia Kellner, this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars. Ava, 10, and Amelia, 8, donate food and blankets to the Humane Society of Oldham County once a month, using their allowance, or money from lemonade and snack stands. The two sisters wrote Gov. Beshear a letter, asking him to highlight the importance of helping local animal shelters. Today, as the holidays approach, the Governor encouraged Kentuckians to donate to their local food pantry or animal shelter, volunteer to spend time with pets who are waiting for their forever home, or – for those who are able – foster or adopt a pet.

Ava and Amelia joined the Team Kentucky update, and the Governor gave them each Team Kentucky Winnie coloring books and Governor’s challenge coins.

“These girls are proof that you’re never too young to step up for your community,” said Gov. Beshear. “Ava and Amelia are such great examples of being good neighbors. Thank you for making Kentucky a better place. You are this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.”