February is Black History Month and we as Americans should be very grateful to the Black African Americans who have been such a vital part in the development and growth of our United States of America. As Americans, they have impacted every aspect of our United States. There have been many shows, documentaries, and opportunities to tune into presentations to inform and allow us to appreciate all cultures, races, ethnic groups and especially our Black communities and especially here in Bowling Green! Check out Bowling Green School District for their recognition and appreciation for Black History Month and all the personalities and individuals who contributed to this thing called a Republic.

The Bowling Green Public Library is hosting a fun-filled Trivia Night on March 15 at 7:00 at the VFW Hall. It’s also a fun way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. It’s BYOB and Snacks along with brain teasers and trivia galore! Support our Public Library by coming to this fun event plus explore our BG Public Library by visiting, enjoying, and entertaining yourself and others in their welcoming and accommodating environment!

I have heard by so many that they miss our Save-A Lot grocery store. It was frequented by walkers, wheelchair-ers, bicyclists; customers that didn’t want to or couldn’t make it all the way to Dollar General or Wal-Mart. As many of you know, I have been trying for 4 years now to get an Aldi grocery store along with the efforts of the Pike County Development Agent. We simply don’t meet their requirements currently and the place. I have pursued IGA, Independent Grocers Association, and I have Zoom meetings scheduled with them. However, I‘m not sure it would be the best fit for Bowling Green. I am in pursuit of other southern chains of grocery stores as well. Also, Schnucks out of the St. Louis County area. Again, I’m not sure we could afford them.

It is my honor to serve Bowling Green as your Mayor and I look forward to serving you for this year and a part of 2026. I am grateful to the previous mayors who have served and helped develop our wonderful town. We have talked a lot about leadership over the past 2024 and now in 2025, but we seldom talk about the support team that makes leadership possible. For instance, I thank my amazing wife, Karen, for all her support, warming missed meals and late meetings and the same goes for our elected men and women who serve as Aldermen and council members. Public service can be demanding with extra meetings and tough decision making. We can’t forget City Hall staff who are dedicated individuals who serve and assist you residents of our great city. City Hall includes our city clerk/administrator, our code enforcer, and our animal control personnel. In addition, we have a Fire Department with strong leadership but mostly volunteers who are committed to keeping our town safe and secure along with our dedicated police officers.

 

Written by Mayor Jim Arico