Smart growth can shape Winchester’s future

Pete Koutoulas July 31, 2026

Smart growth offers Winchester a chance to grow in ways that strengthen community, protect rural landscapes, and reduce long-term infrastructure costs. Instead of scattering subdivisions across the countryside, smart growth focuses on compact, walkable neighborhoods built near existing schools, parks, and utilities. Research shows these areas improve physical health, mental well-being, and fiscal stability for local governments. With abundant infill...

Main Street, Winchester, KY — July 2026.

Ark Encounter’s public funding contradiction

Chuck Witt July 30, 2026

Chuck Witt examines what he sees as a contradiction in Kentucky’s treatment of Answers in Genesis and its attractions. The article argues that AIG presents itself as a religious enterprise through its web-site, employment application, and statement of faith, yet also operates attractions with paid admis-sion, parking fees, and retail sales. Witt questions why state tourism funds support the organization...

Latest News

More news . . .

opinion

The Odyssey and the uncanny valley

Erin Skinner Smith

August 3
Smart growth can shape Winchester’s future

Pete Koutoulas

July 31
Democratic socialism’s appeal and its limits

Randy Patrick

July 30
Ark Encounter’s public funding contradiction

Chuck Witt

July 30
What the church called superstition

Misty Gay

July 29
Kentucky’s ‘At least we tried’ bills

WinCity Voices

July 29

More opinion . . .

arts & culture

‘Tis a Blustery Day in the Neighborhood

Jeanine Lister

July 31
What the church called superstition

Misty Gay

July 29
How love built a Kentucky life

Cora Heffner

July 29
A soldier’s refusal of honor

Chuck Witt

July 27
Historian recounts ‘best year ever’ for GRC sports

The Winchester Sun

July 24
‘Bringing up Baby’ still roars with comic chaos

Ron Kibbey

July 23

More arts & culture . . .

Features

Happy 100^th birthday, Ale-8-One

Pete Koutoulas

Winchester’s hometown soft drink is celebrating 100 years of producing the unique ginger flavored beverage in the green bottles that is beloved by Kentuckians here and beyond Clark County and the Commonwealth. This is our tribute to our favorite soft drink.
Read more: Happy 100^th birthday, Ale-8-One
Ale‑8 celebrates century of pop culture

Randy Patrick

Generations of Winchester residents know the story of how Ale-8-One was introduced at the 1926 Clark County Fair. A century later, those who are loyal to the brand haven’t lost their enthusiasm for its refreshing flavor or their devotion to its cult-like status. This Saturday, Aug. 1, Ale-8-One will celebrate its 100^th anniversary with a block party on Winchester’s Main Street from 5 to 9 p.m. It will begin with the…
Read more: Ale‑8 celebrates century of pop culture
‘Earl the Pearl’ comes to town

Randy Patrick

Randy Patrick reports on Earl Strickland’s return to Winchester, where the pool legend known as “Earl the Pearl” visited The Winchester Café for a free community event. Strickland met local players, shared colorful stories from past visits and demonstrated trick shots alongside Mayor Jo Ellen Reed. The café, expected to open next month for breakfast and lunch, will also serve as a filming location for episodes of the award-winning series Finding…
Read more: ‘Earl the Pearl’ comes to town
Winchester service week changes lives through relationships

JP Martin

For the eighth time in nine years, Group Mission Trips brought about 300 students and adult leaders to Winchester for a week of service, home repairs and relationship-building. Volunteers rebuilt decks, constructed wheelchair ramps and painted homes for elderly residents, people with disabilities and families in need, all while sharing meals, prayers and conversations with homeowners. Participants said the week changed more than houses, helping students grow in confidence, faith and compassion while giving residents connection, encouragement and practical…
Read more: Winchester service week changes lives through relationships