Serving Morehead / Rowan County & All Surrounding Communities

Human Remains Identified in Rowan County

Human remains discovered last year in a remote area of Trent Ridge have now been identified.

According to the Rowan County Coroner’s Office, the remains were found on April 19, 2025, by a man and his son while hiking. Authorities conducted a coordinated search of the area and recovered additional evidence. The remains were then sent to the Kentucky State Police Forensic Laboratory for examination and DNA testing.

Officials have confirmed the remains as those of Rowan County resident Cameron Lee Boling, shown here. 

According to Crime Solvers Central, he went missing on June 30, 2022.

The circumstances surrounding Boling’s death remain under investigation by Kentucky State Police and the Rowan County Coroner’s Office. No further details have been released at this time.

Pastor Finds Family Roots at Siloam Church 

A Morehead pastor has uncovered a deeply personal connection to a church she now leads.

Saundra Nathanson recently became pastor of Siloam First Church of God, which reopened after being closed since May 2025. What started as a simple visit—encouraged by Kentucky State Church of God Pastor Jim Todd—soon turned into something much more meaningful.

While preparing for the church’s reopening, Nathanson discovered that her great-grandmother, Martha Flannery, helped establish the church. Other relatives were also involved and are now buried in the Siloam cemetery.

“It’s like I’ve come full circle,” Nathanson said.

Siloam First Church of God has resumed services and is welcoming the community.

Location: 100 Siloam Road (just off Bullfork Road)
Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM
Wednesday Bible Study: 6:00 PM

Photos below courtesy of Saundra Nathanson's Facebook and the Siloam First Church of God Facebook.

76 Years Strong: Holbrook Drug

Since 1950, Holbrook Drug has been more than a pharmacy—it’s been a part of Morehead’s story.

Founded by Bob Holbrook and J.B. Calvert, the business later operated under Paul Cooper until 2013. Today, owner Jennifer Anderson continues that legacy, working to keep the Holbrook name strong in the community.

For 76 years, generations of families have found not just care, but connection inside its doors.

(Photo courtesy of Holbrook Drug)

COMMUNITY ALERT: MISSING TEEN – MOREHEAD

16-year-old Tionna Ramya Smith has been missing since March 18, 2026 in Morehead.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office at (606) 784-5446 or call NCMEC at 1-800-THE-LOST (Case #2081132).

FROM THE EDITOR:
When the Lights Become a Luxury

Electricity used to be a basic necessity.

In Eastern Kentucky, it’s starting to feel like a luxury.

Across the region, power bills are climbing—and not just from one company. Families everywhere are feeling the pressure. And for some, it’s becoming unbearable.

Just recently, a woman near Cumberland took to social media asking for help. Even after receiving assistance, her electric bill was higher than her monthly income.

Higher than her income.

That left nothing for groceries. Nothing for medication. Nothing for her home.

And she’s not alone.

Power companies point to infrastructure, maintenance, and federal costs. Those things matter. Reliable service matters.

But so does affordability.

Because what good is electricity if people can’t afford to use it?

Eastern Kentucky families are already stretched thin. Fixed incomes and working-class wages don’t leave room for constant increases. Yet the bills keep rising—and more increases may be on the way.

At some point, something has to give.

This isn’t about politics. It’s about people.

It’s about making sure no one has to choose between keeping the lights on and putting food on the table.

Because when electricity becomes unaffordable, it’s no longer just a utility issue—

It’s a crisis.

- Joe Clark

LOCAL HISTORY
Remembering James Mitchell

A long-overdue step toward acknowledging history took place this past weekend in Mount Sterling, Kentucky.

A historical marker was unveiled honoring James Mitchell, a 20-year-old Black man who was lynched there in 1882.

According to newspaper accounts from the time, Mitchell was arrested in the afternoon and, within hours—without a trial—was taken by a mob and hanged near the railroad. There was no jury. No due process. Only accusation.

The marker, years in the making, is part of an effort to recognize and remember what happened. Participants retraced the path Mitchell was forced to walk from the jail to the site of his death—an act described as resembling a funeral procession.

Organizers say the goal is not to assign blame today, but to acknowledge the past and ensure it is not forgotten.

For decades, James Mitchell was little more than a brief line in old newspapers.

Now, his name—and his story—are finally being remembered.

Photo courtesy of the DuBois Community Center)

Morel Season Has Begun in Eastern Kentucky

Spring has officially arrived in the hills of Eastern Kentucky—and with it comes one of the most anticipated traditions of the year: morel mushroom season.

The first small black morels are already beginning to appear, signaling the start of a short but rewarding window for foragers across the region.

For those who have never had success finding morels, the process can feel frustrating. But seasoned hunters know that success comes down to timing, terrain, and knowing exactly what to look for.

Local author and herbalist Joe Clark has released a practical field guide designed specifically for Eastern Kentucky, breaking down the season, locations, and techniques needed to consistently find morels.

You can get a copy of the guide by clicking here: The Eastern Kentucky Morel Mushroom Field Guide

Supporting the Body Through COVID-19

With reports of a new COVID-19 variant circulating in the United States, many are once again focusing on how to support their overall health during and after infection.

For those looking for a grounded, practical approach, Supporting the Body Through COVID-19: An Herbalist’s Guide offers a calm and balanced look at how herbal support may complement recovery—without fear-based claims or unrealistic promises.

The guide explores lingering symptoms many people continue to face, including fatigue, breathing discomfort, brain fog, and nervous system imbalance.

Available now for those wanting a deeper understanding of herbal support alongside medical care.

Morehead-Rowan County Chamber of Commerce to Host “Coffee + Connections” Networking Event

MOREHEAD, KY — The Morehead-Rowan County Chamber of Commerce is inviting local business owners, professionals, and community members to attend an upcoming networking event focused on building connections and strengthening the local business community.

April 7, 2026
7:30 – 9:30 AM
Jolted Cup, 2575 KY 801, Morehead, KY 

The event, titled “Coffee + Connections,” is part of the Fleming & Rowan Connections Over Coffee series and is co-sponsored by Egan Technology Services along with Jolted Cup and Perk & Plate.

Organizers say the gathering offers a relaxed, come-and-go atmosphere where attendees can meet fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships.

Free to attend
No registration required

Participants are encouraged to stop by at their convenience and bring business cards.

For more information, follow the Morehead-Rowan County Chamber of Commerce on social media.

Tip of The Day

Explore the hiking trails at Cave Run Lake for beautiful views and a relaxing outdoor experience in Morehead, Kentucky!

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