A combination of political candidates and Grayson County High School athletes converged on Friday night at the Alice Theatre for a chili cookoff fundraiser for the Lady Cougars softball team.
The event packed the venue, as attendees rubbed shoulders with the 2026 version of the Lady Cougars softball team, led by head coach Jeff Rak, as the squad was introduced player-by-player. The event further served as a meet and greet for the Cougars basketball team.
The basketball Cougars, winners of the Third Region title for the first time since 2009, signed autographs and conversed with fans young and old alike, as at least one young boy walked away with a basketball autographed by all the players.
While the politicians in attendance did not give speeches, they were out in force, with supporters wearing the shirts of their preferred candidate.
In attendance were candidates for Grayson County Sheriff — Sonny Poteet and Buck Meredith; Leitchfield City Council candidate — William “Billy” Dallas; Third District Magistrate candidates — Elissa Hudson and Dustin King; and Grayson County Clerk candidates — Stephanie Brooks and Tonya Kessinger.
Also present were 18th District state Rep. Samara Heavrin, R-Leitchfield, who is running unopposed, and Grayson County Attorney Jeremy Logsdon.
Event organizer April Bowman, secretary/treasurer for the Lady Cougars softball boosters, said the evening resulted in nearly $5,000 being raised for the softball team via a silent auction, donations and entry fees for the chili cookoff.
The Lady Cougars softball team opens their season on Thursday at 5:30 against Hart County at home. For the team’s full schedule, click here.
A lineup of photos from the event
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
