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KSP Trooper Recognized Nationally for Heroic Actions in Rowan County Incident

A trooper with Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 8 has received national recognition for his bravery and quick decision-making that saved a woman’s life during a violent domestic incident in Morehead.

Trooper Paul Thomas has been named a regional finalist for the 2025 IACP/Motorola Solutions Trooper of the Year Award. The prestigious honor, presented by the International Association of Chiefs of Police in partnership with Motorola Solutions, recognizes law enforcement officers who demonstrate exceptional courage, leadership, and service.

“Trooper Thomas demonstrated extraordinary courage and professionalism in an incredibly dangerous situation,” said KSP Post 8 Commander Bobby King. “His willingness to act without hesitation saved a life. We are proud to see him recognized on a national level.”

The incident occurred on January 28, 2025, when Rowan County dispatch received multiple 911 calls reporting that a woman had been stabbed and was being held at knifepoint inside a Morehead residence. Callers indicated the suspect had threatened to kill the victim and any responding officers.

Trooper Thomas responded alongside officers from the Morehead Police Department. Upon arriving, officers announced their presence and heard the victim calling for help. When the suspect refused commands and the threat escalated, officers forced entry through a barricaded door on an ice-covered porch.

Inside, they found the victim trapped in an overturned recliner, with the suspect kneeling behind her holding a knife to her neck. Despite repeated commands, the suspect continued to restrain her.

Recognizing the immediate danger, Trooper Thomas discharged his weapon, striking the suspect and ending the threat. Officers quickly removed the victim from harm while Trooper Thomas provided aid to the suspect. Emergency personnel transported both individuals. The suspect later died, while the victim was treated and released.

Trooper Thomas was one of four finalists selected nationwide for the award, representing agencies from Kentucky, Kansas, South Dakota, and Virginia. The finalists were honored during the IACP State and Provincial Police Division Midyear Meeting on March 12, 2026, in Boston. Virginia State Police Trooper John Winebrenner was ultimately named Trooper of the Year.

“I am deeply honored to be selected as a finalist,” Trooper Thomas said. “It was a privilege to stand alongside other outstanding officers who represent the very best in law enforcement. I am proud to represent the Kentucky State Police.”

Trooper Thomas’ actions highlight the lifesaving work performed daily by KSP troopers and reflect the agency’s core values of service and dedication.

Editor’s Note: View Trooper Thomas’ nomination video here: https://youtu.be/JaO1EyfuHPU

Rowan County Fiscal Court Approves Annual Budget

Rowan County Fiscal Court approved its annual budget during the most recent fiscal court meeting, finalizing salaries for several county offices and elected positions for the upcoming year. The budget reflects the state‑mandated 3% pay increase applied to all county employees.

Approved Annual Salaries

• County Coroner: $48,000.00

• Deputy Coroners (3): $10,335.00 each

• County Magistrates (4): $24,000.00 each

• County’s Portion of the County Attorney’s Salary: $42,600.00

These allocations are part of the broader county budget adopted for the new fiscal year.

A complete copy of the approved budget is available for public review in the Office of the County Judge‑Executive at the Rowan County Courthouse, located at
600 W. Main Street, Morehead, Kentucky.

Local Funeral Home Employee Completes Mortuary Science Program

MOREHEAD, KY — A familiar face to many families in Rowan County has reached an important milestone in his professional journey.

Nathan Eldridge, an employee of Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, has officially completed all requirements and passed his final examinations in the Mortuary Science Program at Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service.

Eldridge shared the news earlier this week, describing the accomplishment as a dream fulfilled after years of hard work and dedication. The program prepares students for careers in funeral service, including funeral directing, embalming, and supporting families during some of life’s most difficult moments.

Funeral service education requires extensive study in areas such as anatomy, restorative art, grief counseling, funeral law, and the practical aspects of caring for the deceased and guiding families through the funeral process.

Eldridge expressed gratitude to those who supported him throughout the journey.

“This has been a long road, but truly a dream come true for me,” he said. “I’m incredibly grateful for all the support, encouragement, and prayers from everyone who has been part of this journey with me while achieving this accomplishment.”

At Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, Eldridge has already become a valued member of the team serving families throughout Rowan County and the surrounding region.

Additional details about an upcoming graduation ceremony and celebration are expected to be announced in the near future.

Note: For anyone who may be interested in pursuing a career in funeral service, see our separate article titled “Have You Ever Considered a Career in Funeral Service?” located elsewhere in this edition of The Morehead Minute.

The community of Farmers in Rowan County, Kentucky, has seen growth in its economy through partnerships with local businesses and increased sales.

Businesses of Farmers have been able to contribute to the overall economic growth of the region.

This growth is allowing the community to thrive and serve as a model for sustainable economic development in rural areas.

FROM THE ARCHIVES:  The Farmers, KY Tornado of May 28, 1990

On the afternoon of May 28, 1990, residents of Rowan County witnessed a rare and frightening event — a tornado touching down in the Farmers community near the Morehead-Rowan County Airport.

According to reports published in the May 29, 1990 edition of The Morehead News, the tornado struck at approximately 2:43 p.m. near KY 801.

The storm toppled trees, knocked out power lines, and caused damage to several buildings in the area. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

One of the most dramatic scenes occurred at the Morehead-Rowan County Airport, where the tornado overturned several small airplanes and destroyed a 40-by-60-foot aircraft hangar owned by Roy Byrd of Salt Lick. Debris from the hangar was scattered across the surrounding area.

A plane owned by Fred Bate of Vanceburg was flipped upside down during the storm, though no one was inside.

Nearby homes were also affected. A vacation house owned by Dennis Adkins of Pikeville was reportedly lifted from its foundation and dropped about 45 feet away.

Witnesses described hearing trees cracking and debris swirling through the air as the funnel passed over the hills.

Kevin Donehue, who lived in a trailer at the airport and photographed the approaching tornado, later told reporters: “It was through the grace of God that it didn’t destroy any of our personal property.”

Despite the destruction, Rowan County was fortunate that day. The storm caused property damage but no loss of life or serious injuries, leaving behind a powerful story still remembered by many longtime residents.

The Herbal Corner

When most people think about career paths, funeral service is rarely the first profession that comes to mind. Yet it is one of the most meaningful and community-centered careers a person can choose. In towns like Morehead and throughout Eastern Kentucky, funeral directors serve families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Funeral service is not simply about organizing a funeral. It is about helping families navigate grief, honoring the life of a loved one, and guiding people through decisions that can feel overwhelming. Funeral directors often become trusted figures in their communities because they provide compassion, stability, and professionalism when families need it most.

A typical day in funeral service can involve many different responsibilities. Funeral directors meet with families to plan services, coordinate with churches and cemeteries, prepare legal documents, and ensure every detail of a funeral or memorial service is handled with care. Embalmers and funeral professionals also prepare the deceased for viewing, helping families say goodbye in a dignified and respectful setting.

For people who feel called to help others, funeral service can be a deeply rewarding career. It requires empathy, patience, and a strong sense of responsibility. It also provides a stable profession that communities will always need. Even as funeral traditions evolve—through cremation, green burial, and new memorial options—the need for trained professionals to guide families remains constant.

Another advantage of funeral service is that it is a specialized profession with clear educational pathways. In order to become licensed, most states require students to complete an accredited mortuary science program, pass national board examinations, and complete a period of apprenticeship or internship.

Fortunately, several respected mortuary colleges are located within driving distance of Eastern Kentucky. These include Mid-America College of Funeral Service, Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science, and John A. Gupton College. Each of these schools offers programs designed to prepare students for careers as funeral directors and embalmers.

Across the country, many funeral homes are also facing an upcoming challenge: a large number of experienced funeral directors are reaching retirement age. That means communities will need the next generation of professionals to step forward and continue serving families.

For young people searching for a career that combines professionalism, service, and community impact, funeral service may be worth considering. It is a profession built on compassion, trust, and respect—qualities that never go out of style.

And in communities like ours, those qualities matter more than ever.

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Adoptable Pet Of The Week

More than 460 days ago  Rambo walked into the Montgomery County Animal Shelter not knowing how long he would be there. It breaks our heart that he has spent over a year at the shelter with not ever receiving a single application for adoption. He is the shelter's only dog that has been with the shelter over a year.

He has watched SO many dogs come and go hoping that today may be his turn… but he is still waiting.

Despite that, he is such a good boy. He is so excited every time someone comes to his kennel to let him out to play. He gets thumper feet and is just the happiest boy.

He is around 3/4 years old so he is slowing down. He loves to lay down and get belly rubs. He loves to play. He loves pig ears and big bones! He loves everything and everyone, (except other dogs) He’s just a people person.

People may be intimidated by his size and breed but if you just took a few minutes in the play area with him you would know he’s just a giant baby. That is why he is many of the staff & volunteers favorite dog at the shelter!

He has waited longer than any dog should wait. We are really hoping this reaches the right person and they can come and adopt him and it would have all been worth the wait for him to have the perfect home.

Local Event Aims to Break the Stigma Around Men’s Mental Health

MOREHEAD, KY — A local nonprofit is taking an important step toward addressing men’s mental health in the community.

Win the Day, an organization focused on building supportive relationships and strengthening community among men, will host a public event titled  “Breaking the Stigma of Men’s Mental Health” on Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Rowan County Public Library.

The event is designed to create a welcoming space where men can come together, have open and honest conversations, and support one another through life’s challenges.

Cultural expectations have long encouraged men to appear tough and self-reliant, often making it difficult to express emotional struggles. Organizers say that by normalizing conversations about mental health and encouraging men to seek support, communities can help individuals prioritize their well-being without feeling that it challenges their identity.

“Life can get heavy, and too often men feel like they have to carry it alone,” organizers shared. “This isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about showing up, connecting, and reminding each other that we’re not alone.”

The gathering will function as a men’s support meeting, offering encouragement, connection, and a sense of brotherhood for those who attend. Whether someone is facing personal challenges or simply looking for community, all are welcome.

The mission behind Win the Day  centers on breaking stigma, fostering meaningful relationships, and building a stronger, more supportive community for men.

For those seeking connection, encouragement, or simply a place to talk, this event offers an opportunity to take a step forward — together.

Together, we can “Win the Day.”