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A tragic loss rocked a community when 18-year-old Tyler Jay Smith died from a gunshot wound after a July 4th gathering. His family is demanding transparency as the investigation remains shrouded in secrecy — they were told it might be an accident, then later learned it’s open, yet police haven’t confirmed homicide status. Heartbroken and confused, they say they were informed by a neighbor before a...

The Kentucky Barrels’ season imploded after a shocking 60-8 loss to the Minnesota Monsters, fueled by a mass player walkout over disputed contract terms and schedule changes. With stars like Zeke Rose and Darius Prince sidelined, a hastily assembled team took the field—barely prepared. Owner Corey Cunningham called it a “great misunderstanding,” but fans are left reeling as the Barrels, now dubbed...

Six N The Mornin just made a major leap with their grand opening in Covington’s RiverCenter — a sleek, 4,000-square-foot riverside spot that marks their move from Cincinnati. Owner Trey Graham, who also runs the nonprofit Always Better Collectively, is scaling up to meet demand with upgraded kitchen space, signature Southern dishes like shrimp and grits, and even a happy hour menu. The new locatio...

Former Kentucky State Senator John Schickel is being inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame for his pivotal 16-year legislative push that modernized bourbon laws, fueled tourism, empowered small distilleries, and helped turn Kentucky bourbon into a global powerhouse—all while preserving its authentic soul. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/...

Dive into the wild world of hellbenders and freshwater mussels at Thomas More University’s third annual “Raisin’ Hellbenders on the River” concert, July 25th, where music meets conservation. Celebrate the Ohio River’s health, support vital water quality research, and enjoy live bands, kayak tours, and a stunning new mural by alum Michael Thompson—all while helping protect the region’s drinking wat...

Young Ellie Stidham, a brave and spirited girl battling rare Stage Four rhabdomyosarcoma, is rallying her community with a carnival-themed benefit designed to ease the crushing financial burden of her treatment. Known for her kindness, black belt in taekwondo, artistic talent, and unwavering faith, Ellie’s strength inspires everyone around her. Volunteers from schools, churches, and families are c...

Mindset isn’t just what you think—it’s the energy you bring to your thoughts. Two people can experience the same thing, but one sees it as failure while the other sees it as proof of potential. The key? Catch your negative loops, pause, and choose empowering thoughts. Shift your focus from what you’re escaping to what you’re striving for. Build your story around growth, not defeat. It’s not about...

Get ready for a vibrant night of art, music, and community at the Campbell County Public Library’s Fort Thomas Branch this Friday, July 24th, from 7 to 9 PM. Celebrate the end of Summer Reading with local artists showcasing paintings, pottery, and more—there’s something for everyone. Enjoy live jazz from the Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra, refreshing drinks, and floral decor. Don’t miss th...

Covington’s City Hall is celebrating America’s 250th anniversary with neighborhood-themed art posters—each highlighting local history and charm. For $20, you can own a laminated poster of your favorite neighborhood, and every dollar supports the Fund for Covington, a nonprofit driving community projects. Get yours by emailing Erin Callery at Erin. Callery@covingtonky.gov. Art, history, and giving...

Hundreds gathered in Campbellsville, Kentucky, for a candlelit vigil to honor 18-year-old Jaron Johnson, a gifted athlete, devoted believer, and beloved community member tragically killed by gun violence just days prior. As mourners sang, shared stories, and reflected on his radiant spirit, family members described him as an angelic presence whose kindness and excellence—both on the field and in t...

Fayette County’s Superintendent Demetrus Liggins has struck a deal to walk away from his job—no reinstatement, just three years of full pay, matching his contract’s end date in 2029. After months of tension, financial turmoil, and calls for his resignation, Liggins’ legal team calls it a fair compromise, letting the district focus on students and stability as audits reveal decades of accounting is...

Vice President JD Vance landed in Louisville aboard Air Force Two, triggering temporary flight restrictions labeled “VIP movement” — a clear sign of the high-security protocols surrounding his visit. He was spotted at the famed Valhalla Golf Club, drawing attention amid heightened public scrutiny following the tragic death of Charlie Kirk earlier this year. The timing and secrecy of his weekend tr...

Kentucky just unveiled its most transparent school funding report yet — revealing per-student spending, tax sources, and performance data across all 171 districts and 1,400+ schools. This new School Report Card Suite isn’t just about money — it’s a full dashboard for parents, teachers, and communities, covering academics, safety, and overall school health. With Kentucky ranking 31st nationally in...

Kentucky’s launching a brand-new, state-built social studies curriculum designed for grades K-8 — no more forcing-fit materials, just fresh, locally relevant lessons in civics, economics, geography, and history. Free for all districts, it rolls out in phases starting 2027-2028, with digital lesson plans, assessments, and even low-cost workbooks. Teachers get hands-on support through summer trainin...

Fayette County Public Schools board refuses settlement offers from Superintendent Demetrus Liggins, escalating a months-long power struggle that’s drawing intense local attention and leaving the district’s future uncertain. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary base...

London’s mayor, Randall Weddle, has resigned amid legal trouble, leaving the small Kentucky town in limbo as officials scramble to appoint a temporary leader and plan for a permanent replacement. With just 5,800 residents, this leadership vacuum could ripple through the community, and the full scope of his legal issues remains unclear. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://sol...

A tour bus rolled into Salt Lick, Kentucky, not for a concert—but to save cats. Jordan’s Way, a passionate live-streaming fundraiser, hit the road to support small, rural rescues like Cats’ Meow Feline Fosters, who struggle to cover $3,000 monthly costs. With Kris Rotonda’s high-energy antics—pies, tortillas, and endless cat cuteness—their Friday fundraiser smashed goals, raising $5,000 to keep do...

Lafayette High’s architectural design squad just snagged second place at the national TSA conference—beating teams from across the country in a fierce competition themed “Unity through Community.” Their state-level domination in April, where they claimed both first and second in architectural design, set the stage for this national triumph. Individual stars like Ty Sampson (runner-up in CAD) and J...

Fayette County Public Schools is set to destroy old special education and Section 504 records — but don’t panic, it’s legal and necessary. Special ed records for students born before June 30, 1997, will vanish on July 15, 2026; Section 504 files for those born between Jan 1, 1990, and Dec 31, 2003, are scheduled for August 3, 2026. All destruction follows FERPA and state rules, with secure methods...

Kentucky’s voter registration surged last month, adding over 11,000 new voters—the biggest jump in nearly two years—with nearly 7,000 net gains after roll cleanup. As the state braces for a major 2026 election cycle—with primaries on May 19 and the general election on Nov. 3—Secretary of State Michael Adams continues his push for accurate rolls, having removed 750,000 voters since taking office. R...

The Lexington Legends just unveiled a game-changing partnership, renaming their stadium CommonSpirit Ballpark — and it’s all about lifting up Central Kentucky’s community. This isn’t just a logo swap; it’s a commitment to health, family, and fun, with new wellness programs, nonprofit spotlight events, and memories made under the lights. Owner Andy Sandler and CommonSpirit Health president Matt Gri...

A three-year-old warrior, Sophia Brockman, is fighting back against stage four neuroblastoma that returned just months after her treatment ended. Her parents, Chrissy and Jason, are holding tight through the emotional and financial storm, cherishing every moment with their brave daughter as she faces another round of grueling chemotherapy and surgery. Amid rising costs and growing fears for other...

Kentucky’s LIHEAP program, vital for 150,000+ households battling heating and cooling costs, faces a chilling threat: potential federal elimination. With state leaders warning they won’t cover the gap, vulnerable families risk freezing or overheating. But lawmakers argue Kentucky’s rainy day fund could step in—highlighting a critical debate over who should shoulder the burden of keeping homes safe...

Storms are still rolling through Central and Eastern Kentucky with heavy downpours and scattered thunderstorms, keeping temps in the low 80s under cloudy skies. A slow-moving front this weekend will keep rain chances high, with a Flood Watch in effect statewide until 2 AM Sunday. Southern Kentucky may see the heaviest rain, but everyone should stay alert for flooding. Sunday brings more scattered...

Fayette County School Board stands firm against suspended superintendent Dr. Demetrus Liggins, rejecting his push to return to leadership and his demand for a payout exceeding his remaining contract value. The board insists its focus remains on students and district stability as they prepare for the new school year, signaling no room for disruption amid ongoing investigations. The situation remain...