Hopkins County closed out the year with a series of milestones and celebrations in the fourth quarter, as we take a look back at the top stories from October to December.
In October, Bluegrass on Beshear event organizers, Laura and Jeff Smith, said this year’s event in Dawson Springs attracted about 500 attendees and raised a record $55,000. The couple noted that over the past twelve years of hosting the event, they’ve raised more than $300,000 to support pregnancy care centers in region.
Madisonville Community College dedicated its Learning Resource Center to President Emeritus Dr. Judith L. Rhoads, honoring her years of leadership and service. Officials credited her vision and commitment for expanding educational opportunities and shaping programs, facilities, and scholarships that support student and community success..
Prow Brothers, Inc., a Madisonville-based plumbing, heating, and air conditioning company, celebrated its 100th anniversary in October.
Owner Tony Moore, whose family acquired the business in 2015 along with R & D Electrical Service, shared that Prow Brothers has since expanded to four additional locations serving western Kentucky. Moore said 100 years in business is truly extraordinary for him personally.
4th District State Representative Wade Williams was honored as a 2025 Legislative Hero by the Kentucky Hospital Association for his dedication to improving healthcare in Kentucky.
Baptist Health Deaconess Madisonville officials said Rep. Williams earned the honor for his leadership in the Kentucky House and dedication to expanding quality health care access. They noted his advocacy has been vital in passing laws that protect patients and support crucial hospital services statewide.
In November, J.D. Chaney, executive director of the Kentucky League of Cities, visited a Madisonville City Council meeting to present Mayor Kevin Cotton with the 2025 Elected City Official of the Year Award for his achievements, including the new Western Kentucky Training Academy and his dedication to positive change. He also presented a donation from the Kentucky League of Cities.
click to download audioThe 62nd annual Madisonville Veterans Parade, the largest in Kentucky, took place in November with John Thorpe as grand marshal. Mayor Kevin Cotton praised the event and Madisonville Salutes for honoring and supporting veterans.
click to download audioHopkins County Schools Career and Technology Center marked its 10th anniversary in November with an open house and tours. Principal Alaina Lancaster highlighted the center’s decade of preparing students for success, calling it a vital resource for Hopkins County’s future and economy.
click to download audioThe open house also featured the unveiling of the Career and Technology Center’s new mascot, Jets.
At the 55th annual Madisonville Farm City Breakfast in November, held at the new Hopkins County Extension Office, five awards honored local farm community members: Bradley Brown as Environmentalist of the Year, Kris-Ann Tapp as Danny Peyton Friend of Agriculture, Hopkins County Central FFA for Agriculture Innovation, Ben and Gabrielle Prevette as Educators, and Metcalfe’s Greenhouse, Florist, and Landscaping as Farm of the Year.
In December, more than 150 floats joined the Madisonville Noon Kiwanis Christmas Parade, with Clark Legate serving as grand marshal, according to Parade Committee members Stephanie Oakley and Amy Keith.
click to download audioDawson Springs also hosted its annual Christmas Parade, with Lindsey Morgan serving as the grand marshal.
click to download audioPlanning and Zoning Administrator Mandy Todd reported to Madisonville City Council at a December meeting that the 2025 construction costs through November surpassed $85 million in the city.
click to download audioMayor Kevin Cotton called the amount “incredible.”
That’s also some great news to end our 2025 Year in Review for WFMW News. Coming up tomorrow, Aaron Bone will have a look back at the top sports stories in 2025.
