Deaths: We are sad to report 1 new death today from Taylor. We have experienced a total of 40 deaths resulting in a 3.7% mortality rate among known cases. Our hearts and prayers go out to all the families and friends who have lost loved ones.

Hospitalizations: We presently have 13 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 111 hospitalizations resulting in a 10.3% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 62% of ICU beds and 22% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 29 cases today from isolation (recovered). Released cases include: Adair: 6; Casey: 9; Clinton: 2; Cumberland: 1; McCreary: 4; Pulaski: 4; Russell: 1; and, Wayne: 2. In all, we have released 73.3% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,075 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 247 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 37 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 45 today: Adair: 1; Casey: 9; Cumberland: 6; Green: 1; McCreary: 3; Pulaski: 15; Russell: 5; and, Taylor: 5. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.03. This means our total case count is projected to double every 23.44 days.

New cases include:

• Adair: A 58-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 54-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 56-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 48-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 44-year-old male who is self- 
• isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 63-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 41-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 35-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 54-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 35-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 78-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 24-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 27-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 9-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 66-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 57-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic 
• McCreary: A 60-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 73-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 20-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 50-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 59-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 28-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 10-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 14-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 16-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 27-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 18-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 54-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 49-year-old female who is 
• self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 47-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 38-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 16-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 44-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 65-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 24-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 50-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 65-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 28-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 23-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic 

We are sad to announce the loss of the 80- year-old female nursing home resident from Taylor. Our mortality rate remains high when compared to the state and national averages.

Except for the day of the Nursing Home outbreak in Adair, this was our highest day of new cases. We are now starting to see cases associated with youth sports such as little league baseball and school football summer preparations. This is just another important reminder that we should all observe the guidance. Everyone should continue to wear their face coverings, avoid crowds as much as possible, social distance, wash their hands frequently, increase sanitation, and avoid the touching of their faces.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,075 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 30,278 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of 07/31/20 (this includes 30,151 statewide plus 127 recently reported cases in Lake Cumberland not in the Governor’s/Department for Public Health’s daily report).
 

Regardless of the confirmed case count for any Lake Cumberland County, we believe COVID-19 to be widespread. The LCDHD is working tirelessly, including nights and weekends, to identify and contact all those with whom any positive case may have come into close contact, and to follow-up daily with positive cases. Additionally, we are striving diligently to follow-up on business-related complaints regarding noncompliance with the Governor’s Executive Orders.

Deaths: We are sad to report 1 new death today from Taylor. We have experienced a total of 40 deaths resulting in a 3.7% mortality rate among known cases. Our hearts and prayers go out to all the families and friends who have lost loved ones.

Hospitalizations: We presently have 13 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 111 hospitalizations resulting in a 10.3% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 62% of ICU beds and 22% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 29 cases today from isolation (recovered). Released cases include: Adair: 6; Casey: 9; Clinton: 2; Cumberland: 1; McCreary: 4; Pulaski: 4; Russell: 1; and, Wayne: 2. In all, we have released 73.3% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,075 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 247 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 37 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 45 today: Adair: 1; Casey: 9; Cumberland: 6; Green: 1; McCreary: 3; Pulaski: 15; Russell: 5; and, Taylor: 5. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.03. This means our total case count is projected to double every 23.44 days.

New cases include:

• Adair: A 58-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 54-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 56-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 48-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 44-year-old male who is self- 
• isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 63-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 41-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 35-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 54-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 35-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 78-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 24-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 27-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 9-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 66-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 57-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic 
• McCreary: A 60-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 73-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 20-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 50-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 59-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 28-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 10-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 14-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 16-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 27-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 18-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 54-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 49-year-old female who is 
• self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 47-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 38-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 16-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 44-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 65-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 24-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 50-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 65-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 28-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 23-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic 

We are sad to announce the loss of the 80- year-old female nursing home resident from Taylor. Our mortality rate remains high when compared to the state and national averages.

Except for the day of the Nursing Home outbreak in Adair, this was our highest day of new cases. We are now starting to see cases associated with youth sports such as little league baseball and school football summer preparations. This is just another important reminder that we should all observe the guidance. Everyone should continue to wear their face coverings, avoid crowds as much as possible, social distance, wash their hands frequently, increase sanitation, and avoid the touching of their faces.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,075 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 30,278 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of 07/31/20 (this includes 30,151 statewide plus 127 recently reported cases in Lake Cumberland not in the Governor’s/Department for Public Health’s daily report).
 

Regardless of the confirmed case count for any Lake Cumberland County, we believe COVID-19 to be widespread. The LCDHD is working tirelessly, including nights and weekends, to identify and contact all those with whom any positive case may have come into close contact, and to follow-up daily with positive cases. Additionally, we are striving diligently to follow-up on business-related complaints regarding noncompliance with the Governor’s Executive Orders.

Deaths: We are sad to report 1 new death today from Taylor. We have experienced a total of 40 deaths resulting in a 3.7% mortality rate among known cases. Our hearts and prayers go out to all the families and friends who have lost loved ones.

Hospitalizations: We presently have 13 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 111 hospitalizations resulting in a 10.3% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 62% of ICU beds and 22% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 29 cases today from isolation (recovered). Released cases include: Adair: 6; Casey: 9; Clinton: 2; Cumberland: 1; McCreary: 4; Pulaski: 4; Russell: 1; and, Wayne: 2. In all, we have released 73.3% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,075 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 247 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 37 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 45 today: Adair: 1; Casey: 9; Cumberland: 6; Green: 1; McCreary: 3; Pulaski: 15; Russell: 5; and, Taylor: 5. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.03. This means our total case count is projected to double every 23.44 days.

New cases include:

• Adair: A 58-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 54-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 56-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 48-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 44-year-old male who is self- 
• isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 63-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 41-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 35-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 54-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 35-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 78-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 24-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 27-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 9-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 66-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 57-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic 
• McCreary: A 60-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 73-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 20-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 50-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 59-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 28-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 10-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 14-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 16-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 27-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 18-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 54-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 49-year-old female who is 
• self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 47-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 38-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 16-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 44-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 65-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 24-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 50-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 65-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 28-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 23-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic 

We are sad to announce the loss of the 80- year-old female nursing home resident from Taylor. Our mortality rate remains high when compared to the state and national averages.

Except for the day of the Nursing Home outbreak in Adair, this was our highest day of new cases. We are now starting to see cases associated with youth sports such as little league baseball and school football summer preparations. This is just another important reminder that we should all observe the guidance. Everyone should continue to wear their face coverings, avoid crowds as much as possible, social distance, wash their hands frequently, increase sanitation, and avoid the touching of their faces.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,075 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 30,278 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of 07/31/20 (this includes 30,151 statewide plus 127 recently reported cases in Lake Cumberland not in the Governor’s/Department for Public Health’s daily report).
 

Regardless of the confirmed case count for any Lake Cumberland County, we believe COVID-19 to be widespread. The LCDHD is working tirelessly, including nights and weekends, to identify and contact all those with whom any positive case may have come into close contact, and to follow-up daily with positive cases. Additionally, we are striving diligently to follow-up on business-related complaints regarding noncompliance with the Governor’s Executive Orders.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 31, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Friday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“The health and the lives of people around you, our economy and how fast we can build it back, and our ability to get our kids in school depend on you. Let’s beat COVID-19,” said Gov. Beshear.

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. July 31, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 30,151 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 778 of which were newly reported Friday. 23 of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“Our positivity rate has decreased for the third straight day. But, we still have too many cases and we need to do everything we can to try to decrease those. We’re also seeing an increase of patients in the ICU,” said Gov. Beshear.

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 4 new deaths Friday, raising the total to 735 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Friday include a 75-year-old man from Fayette County; an 86-year-old woman from Jefferson County; a 63-year-old man from Perry County; and an 80-year-old woman from Taylor County.

“Sadly, we are also reporting four new deaths,” said Gov. Beshear. “Kentucky, we know what it takes. Let’s mask up.”

As of Friday, there have been at least 629,706 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.43%. At least 7,481 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Contact Tracing Update
Yesterday, Mark Carter, executive policy advisor at the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, updated Kentuckians on contact tracing and tracking across the commonwealth, an effort that Carter leads. To learn more, read yesterday’s full release.

COVID-19 Long-Term Side Effects Update
Yesterday, Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health, provided an update on the known long-term side effects of COVID-19. To learn more, read yesterday’s full release.

Russell County had 2 new coronavirus cases Thursday, a 34 year old female and a 46 year old female who are both self-isolated. 2 cases were released yesterday. We now have 14 cases in Russell County, all on self-isolation.

Adair County reported 1 new COVID19 case Thursday and released 1 case. Adair County currently has 24 active cases with 21 on home isolation and 3 in area hospitals

Somerset, Ky. (July 30, 2020) – Kentucky State Police London Post 11 responded to a single vehicle collision that occurred on the Old Cumberland Parkway on Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at approximately 9:51pmET. 

The initial investigation indicates that a 1997 Harley Davison motorcycle operated by George Cagle, 67, of Lexington, KY was traveling west on Old Cumberland Parkway, when he lost control and struck a road sign head-on.

Cagle was airlifted to the University of Kentucky Medical Center where he died from injuries sustained in the accident and was pronounced deceased by the Fayette County Coroner’s Office. A passenger, 56-year-old Rhonda Sturgill of London, KY was also airlifted to UK Medical Center with significant injuries.

Post 11 KSP Trooper Childress is continuing the investigation. He was assisted at the scene by other Post 11 Personnel, Pulaski County Sherriff’s Office, Somerset Police Department, Pulaski County EMS, Somerset Fire Department and the Fayette County Coroner’s office.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 30, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Thursday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“Remember, we as a commonwealth, as a country and as planet Earth are in this war against this 1-in-100-year pandemic,” said Gov. Beshear. “It means we’ve got to show up every day to protect the health and lives of those around us, protect our economy and do everything we can to get our kids back in school.”

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Thursday, July 30, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 29,386 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 659 of which were newly reported Thursday. 22 of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“Our cases are a little up from yesterday, but our positivity rate is down because we’ve had more tests,” said Gov. Beshear. “Once we get the virus under control, we have to keep it under control. We can’t stop. We can’t let up. Until we have that vaccine, we’ve got to do what it takes.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 7 new deaths Thursday, raising the total to 731 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Thursday include a 75-year-old man from Casey County; a 65-year-old man from Christian County; a 92-year-old woman from Green County; an 82-year-old man from Greenup County; an 81-year-old woman from Ohio County; a 63-year-old woman from Simpson County; and a 70-year-old woman from Warren County.

“More and more people in their sixties,” said Gov. Beshear. “We know we are in this battle – and that now is a critical time to fight.”

As of Thursday, there have been at least 621,206 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.66%. At least 7,590 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Contact Tracing Update
Today, Mark Carter, executive policy advisor at the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, updated Kentuckians on contact tracing and tracking across the commonwealth, an effort that Carter leads.

There are now 631 contact tracers in Kentucky and 63 more will be added Aug. 4. In addition, there are 190 disease investigators, 54 regional team members and 11 social support connectors.

He announced that the program has already seen notable successes. In addition to their work preventing COVID-19 from spreading, contact tracers are able to offer reassurance, help monitor symptoms and connect Kentuckians to food and medical support during quarantine and isolation. Also, local health departments report that many residents are well-prepared and take the time to write down their contacts before they are contacted by contact tracers.

“Overwhelmingly once the health department is able to reach people, they are being cooperative. They want to protect their health, they want to protect their loved ones,” said Carter.

Carter said his team’s greatest challenge is that some residents still do not understand the seriousness of COVID-19. People believe they do not have the disease and refuse to name their contacts, contributing to more positive cases and the loss of information.

“I feel like the progress is good, we’re in good shape. But we all worry about what might happen with the spread of the virus and what it might mean for our public health response,” said Carter.

COVID-19 Long-Term Side Effects Update
Today, Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health, provided an update on the known long-term side effects of COVID-19.

“People in high-risk categories are relying on the rest of us to behave responsibly,” said Dr. Stack. “I may not be at high-risk, but other people are and I have an obligation to not recklessly endanger them.”

In children, COVID-19 can cause multisystem inflammatory disorder, rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, low blood pressure, shock and heart damage.

In young adults, COVID-19 can cause blood clotting disorders, including strokes and pulmonary embolisms. One in five young adults still have symptoms 14 to 21 days after being diagnosed with COVID-19. In severe cases, recovery can take six weeks or more.

Adults 50 years old or older are twice as likely as young adults to have symptoms 14 to 21 days after diagnosis.

Finally, COVID-19 survivors of any age may have long-term, irreversible lung damage.

Dr. Stack emphasized that some side effects of this new virus may still be unknown, and its side effects that we already know about highlight why our fight against COVID-19 is so important.

“There’s a lot we don’t know, and so I’m not trying to fear-monger, I’m just trying to tell you, there’s a lot we don’t know,” said Dr. Stack.

More Information
Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov, kycovid19.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Kentuckians can also access translated COVID-19 information and daily summaries of the Governor’s news conference at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

On Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at approximately 3:40pmCT, KSP Post 15 received a call of a 2-vehicle collision at the 61-mile marker on the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Parkway in Russell County. The preliminary investigation revealed that 45-year-old Keith Coffman of Bowling Green, KY was traveling westbound in a 2019 Ford pickup truck towing trailers. For an unknown reason, Coffman’s vehicle left the right shoulder of the roadway and the trailer he was towing struck a pedestrian, 71-year-old Joe Birdwell of Columbia, KY and a 1997 Dodge pickup truck, which was parked in the westbound emergency lane.

Birdwell was flown to University of Kentucky Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries. A passenger in Birdwell’s vehicle, Kenneth Davis, 76, of Columbia, KY was also flown to University of Kentucky Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A portion of the westbound lanes of the Louie B. Nunn Parkway were closed for several hours in order to allow troopers to investigate the collision.

KSP Post 15 was assisted at the scene by the Russell County Sheriffs Office, R.C. Fire Dept., EMS and Rescue. The collision is still under investigation by Trooper Jason Warinner.

1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
2. RESCENDING EMERGENCY BUDGET AMENDMENT
3. SECOND READING OF THE BUDGET AMENDMENT
4. LINE TO LINE TRANSFERS
5. ADJOURN

It is that time of year again for the 67^th annual WHAS-Crusade for Children Telethon. The crusade was established in 1954 by WHAS-TV.  It raises money for agencies, schools, and hospitals to better the lives of special needs children.  Special needs defined as physical, mental, emotional, and medical needs. Since the crusade was established over $165 million has been raised. Fire Departments raise over 50 percent of the money each year by staging roadblocks and other events. Millions of children have been helped.

The money raised in Columbia-Adair County comes back to our county 100% dollar-for-dollar in the form of grants. Grants are made to non-profit agencies, schools, and hospitals that help children up to the age of 18. These grants can be used to fund specific programs or purchase equipment that provide direct benefits to the children.

The Columbia-Adair County Fire Department has been participating in the crusade since 1963 and has raised over $1.3 million dollars for special needs in Adair County. Roadblocks will begin this Sunday, August 2nd from 8:00am-12:00pmCT on the four corners of the Public Square. Firefighters will also be out on roadblocks on Friday, August 7th and Saturday, August 8th. The remote will be broadcast live on WBKO-13 on Saturday, August 8th in Campbellsville at 6:00pm.  Everyone (including Adair County churches) are encouraged to support this year’s Crusade for Children. 

If you have any questions, contact Crusade Chairman Charles Esch at 270-634-1690.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 29, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Wednesday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“The commonwealth is at war with the coronavirus. It’s going to take how long it takes. But we know if we don’t put our best effort forward, it will take the lives of our people, it will hurt our economy and it will impact the education that our kids get,” said Gov. Beshear. “This is probably the most significant challenge that most of us will face in our lifetimes. We’ve got to come together as a state. We all have to do what it takes.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. July 29, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 28,727 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 619 of which were newly reported Wednesday. 17 of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“It’s another day of tough news that we’re seeing across the country: whether it is Dr. Fauci warning that a number of states including us are poised for a significant outbreak, or high and even record-breaking numbers just to the south and all the way around us,” said Gov. Beshear. “That’s why we’re acting decisively. If we plateau again, it’s because of the hard work and willingness of people to wear facial coverings.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 5 new deaths Wednesday, raising the total to 724 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Wednesday include an 87-year-old woman from Clay County; an 82-year-old man from Graves County; a 77-year-old man from Jefferson County; a 58-year-old woman from Knott County; and a 71-year-old man from McCracken County.

“Let’s make sure we stop the spread because we know what follows high cases are high death counts,” said Gov. Beshear. “None of us, none of us, want to see that. Stopping this virus is what we do for those five families hurting today.”

As of Wednesday, there have been at least 609,989 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.81%. At least 7,495 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Unemployment Insurance Update
Today, the Governor announced that in-person unemployment insurance services will begin in Louisville next week, from Monday, Aug. 3 to Friday, Aug. 7. Kentuckians must register online at kcc.ky.gov. The location and hours will be:

     
     UAW Local 862

     3000 Fern Valley Road

     Louisville, KY 40213

     Monday to Thursday - 9am-6pmET

     Friday - 9am-2pmET

“We are going to have a significant number of people on hand, so get on and sign up,” said Gov. Beshear. “We want to see those who believe they need to see us in-person, in-person.”

Corrections Update
Today, J. Michael Brown, secretary of the Governor’s executive cabinet, gave an update on COVID-19 cases in Kentucky’s correctional facilities. There are currently 379 active inmate cases and 53 active staff cases; 432 inmates have recovered and 69 staffers have recovered. In total, eight inmates have died due to complications from COVID-19.

Secretary Brown added that the Governor was considering commuting the sentences of more offenders who are at least 65 years old and near the end of their sentences.

“We have released right at 1,200 inmates from our previous round of commutations and we’re currently in the process of screening another 700 inmates to see if they qualify based on those criteria,” said Secretary Brown.

The list of medically vulnerable inmates who could be considered for sentence commutation is still being compiled.

Kerner Commission 2.0
Yesterday, Gov. Beshear highlighted a new effort in Kentucky that aims to pick up the mantle of the landmark National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders, better known as the Kerner Commission, which was established 53 years ago today by President Lyndon Johnson.

“As Governor, I support this work because it’s important,” Gov. Beshear said. “I support it because it’s the right thing to do. I support this work now because it can’t wait.”

For more information, read yesterday’s full release.

New Actions to Fight Surge in Cases
On Monday, Gov. Beshear announced new actions, conceived through and backed by guidance from the White House, to stem the growing number of coronavirus cases and rising test positivity rate in the commonwealth.

Under a new order from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, bars are closed and restaurants are limited to 25% of pre-pandemic capacity indoors. The Governor and the Kentucky Department for Public Health will monitor case numbers over the next two weeks with the goal of reopening bars and restoring restaurant capacity after that time.

In addition, the Governor is recommending public and private schools to avoid offering in-person instruction until the third week of August.

The new actions followed previous moves by Gov. Beshear’s administration, including a travel advisory that recommends a 14-day self-quarantine for Kentuckians who travel to states and U.S. territories that are reporting a positive coronavirus testing rate equal to or greater than 15%. For an updated list of areas meeting that threshold, click here. In addition, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services issued an order pulling back the guidance on non-commercial gatherings to allow only for meet-ups of 10 or fewer people.

Testing Update
Responding to some reports that some seeking coronavirus testing still are being asked to provide a doctor’s order, administration officials reiterated that the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Public Health (DPH) issued an order removing any such requirement to receive a COVID-19 test.

Kentuckians can sign up for molecular diagnostic testing at more than 200 locations throughout the state, listed by county here.

Daniel E. Muthig, Christopher Grady and Sascha J. Hunt - Theft by Unlawful Taking over $500, 4 counts Burglary 3rd Degree. Muthig Fleeing or Evading Police 3rd degree. Muthig and Grady Criminal Mischief 2ndd degree. Muthig Criminal Mischief 1st degree. Muthig, Criminal Mischief 1st degree. Muthing and Grady Fleeing and Evading Police 2nd degree. Hunt. Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1st degree and Promoting Contraband, 1st degree. Muthing Fleeing and Evading Police, 1st and 2nd degree and Criminal Mischief, 1st degree. 

Gilbert Pitman - Theft of Identity, a class D felony and Persistent Felony Offender, 1st degree.

Tamara Conover - Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1st degree, a class D felony, Possession of Marijuana, a class B misdemeanor and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

Thalon E. Warner - Receiving Stolen Property over $500, a class D felony, and Instructional Permit Violation. 

Michael Carr - Burglary, 2nd Degree, a class C felony, Menacing, a class B Misdemeanor and Criminal Mischief 3rd degree, a class B Misdemeanor, Persistent Felony Offender, 1st degree.

Tony Huff - Burglary, 2nd degree, a class C felony, Tampering with Physical Evidence a class D felony and Peristent Felony Offender, 1st degree. 

A Russell County Grand Jury has indicted a former Russell County Substitute Teacher for Sexual Crimes against a Minor. 

Hunter B. Lovell, 25, was a Substitute Teacher and Assistant Football Coach at the school. The investigation found that Lovell, from September 2019 to November 2019, had committed the offense of Rape 3rd Degree with a minor student while in his role as a substitute teacher. 

Russell Springs Police Chief Joe Michael Irvin, Sgt. Detective Chasity Shirley, and an Investigator with the Attorney General Cyber Crimes Unit conducted the investigation. Attorney General Daniel Cameron's Office appointed a Special Prosecutor to handle the case. Assistant Attorney General Rewa Zakharia will prosecute the case on behalf of the Commonwealth. 

A warrant has been issued for Lovell's arrest and a full cash bond is set at $20,000. 

A Jamestown woman was taken into custody on drug trafficking charges just before midnight last night.  Brenda Hammond age 57, was arrested by Deputy Cooper with the Russell County Sheriff’s Office. Hammond was charged with Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 1^st Degree, 1st Offense, more or equal to 2 grams.

An Adair County man was arrest was taken into custody just after 8 last evening on Drug Charges. Jerry Dale Sneed age 71, of Columbia. Was arrested by Trooper Scott with the Kentucky State Police. Sneed was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Meth), Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession and Possession of Marijuana.

Nathanial Martin age 31, of Russell Springs was arrested by Deputy Padgett with the Adair County Sheriff’s Office on several charges… Operating a Motor Vehicle under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs .08 (Aggravated Circumstances) 2^nd Degree, Leaving the Scene of an Accident-Failure to Render Air or Assistance, Driving DUI Suspended License – 1^st Offense (Aggravated Circumstances), No Registration Plates and Failure of Non-Owner Operator to Maintain Required Insurance 1^st Offense.  

The Adair County Fiscal Court met yesterday afternoon for their regular session. 

Jim Liebe spoke with County Judge Gayle Cowan following the meeting... 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 28, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Tuesday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“We are at war with this virus. It has come to take the lives of our people, it has tried to turn everything about our lives upside down, and it’s our job to fight back,” the Governor said. “This is a war fought by every single one of us. Every single individual’s actions matter.”

Gov. Beshear again warned that without everyone complying with safety requirements – including social distancing, wearing face coverings and avoiding travel to virus hotspots – we risk squandering our hard work and facing the devastation being experienced by some other states.  

“Today, again, tough news for Florida and Texas: Florida setting a record for deaths in a single day and in Texas, every six minutes and 16 seconds they are losing someone to COVID-19,” the Governor said. “But again, we are at a point in time where we have the ability to stop this before it gets anywhere close to what we’ve seen in those states.”

Case Information
As of 4:00pmET on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 28,126 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 532 of which were newly reported Tuesday. 21 of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger, including a 2-month-old girl from Madison County and a 7-month-old boy from Graves County.

“Today’s update gives us hope that we may be seeing a new plateau or stabilization, although it is too early to come to that conclusion,” the Governor said. “It’s also the first time the positivity rate has gone down in four days. My hope is that the facial covering requirement is starting to kick in and help.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 10 new deaths Tuesday, raising the total to 719 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Tuesday include a 74-year-old woman from Butler County; an 84-year-old man from Fayette County; two women, ages 86 and 87, and an 82-year-old man from Jefferson County; two women, ages 89 and 101, and an 83-year-old man from Logan County; a 37-year-old man from Lyon County; and a 73-year-old woman from Oldham County.

“Let’s remember, high cases means we lose more Kentuckians,” said Gov. Beshear. “Every time we do something that spreads the virus, we expose more people to that potential outcome.

As of Tuesday, there have been at least 599,251 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.08%. At least 7,470 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Kerner Commission 2.0
Gov. Beshear highlighted Tuesday a new effort in Kentucky that aims to pick up the mantle of the landmark National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders, better known as the Kerner Commission, which was established 53 years ago today by President Lyndon Johnson.

Simmons College of Kentucky in Louisville recently announced the formation of a Kerner Commission 2.0, for which Gov. Beshear said his administration will offer support.

The original Kerner Commission was tasked with working to understand the root causes of civil unrest and violence that plagued several major cities during the summer of 1967. The report concluded: “Our nation is moving toward two societies, one Black, one white – separate and unequal.”

“Today, 53 years after his call for answers, our nation still is struggling with racial inequity and history continues to replay itself before our very eyes,” the Governor said. “Undoubtedly, progress has been made in civil rights as a nation, but we can’t deny the disparities that still exist for Black people in our great nation and even in our great commonwealth.”

The Governor noted that most of the report’s recommendations went unheeded and that the civil unrest seen in recent months mirrors what happened in 1967. The new Kerner Commission 2.0 soon will name its commissioners and convene as a statewide brain trust to help identify current problems and potential solutions.

“As Governor, I support this work because it’s important,” Gov. Beshear said. “I support it because it’s the right thing to do. I support this work now because it can’t wait.”

New Actions to Fight Surge in Cases
On Monday, Gov. Beshear announced new actions, conceived through and backed by guidance from the White House, to stem the growing number of coronavirus cases and rising test positivity rate in the commonwealth.

Under a new order from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, bars are closed and restaurants are limited to 25% of pre-pandemic capacity indoors. The Governor and the Kentucky Department for Public Health will monitor case numbers over the next two weeks with the goal of reopening bars and restoring restaurant capacity after that time.

In addition, the Governor is recommending public and private schools to avoid offering in-person instruction until the third week of August.

The new actions followed previous moves by Gov. Beshear’s administration, including a travel advisory that recommends a 14-day self-quarantine for Kentuckians who travel to states and U.S. territories that are reporting a positive coronavirus testing rate equal to or greater than 15%. For an updated list of areas meeting that threshold, click here. In addition, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services issued an order pulling back the guidance on non-commercial gatherings to allow only for meet-ups of 10 or fewer people.

Fiscal Year 2020 Budget Update
Expanding on some good news about fiscal year 2020, Gov. Beshear announced Monday that the General Fund revenues ended up $104.6 million above the budgeted estimate, at a total of nearly $12 billion. The General Fund surplus will be $177.5 million.

The Governor has said the improved economic footing means there will be no budget cuts to K-12 education, post-secondary education, and health and public safety, and no cuts to the Judicial or Legislative branch budgets.

After holding back $15 million for necessary government expenses, Gov. Beshear said the $162.5 million going to the rainy day fun, which is called the Budget Reserve Trust Fund, will bring it up to $465.7 million.

Gov. Beshear cautioned that the outlook for fiscal year 2021 remains challenging.

Testing Update
Responding to some reports that some seeking coronavirus testing still are being asked to provide a doctor’s order, administration officials reiterated that the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Public Health (DPH) issued an order removing any such requirement to receive a COVID-19 test.

Kentuckians can sign up for molecular diagnostic testing at more than 200 locations throughout the state, listed by county here.

More Information
Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov, kycovid19.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Kentuckians can also access translated COVID-19 information and daily summaries of the Governor’s news conference at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

Russell County has 4 new cases announced yesterday. We now have 19 active cases which 18 are on self-isolation and 1 is hospitalized in Lexington Central Baptist.

Adair County with NO NEW CASES of COVID-19 Monday. We have released. We have 23 active cases with 22 in home isolation and 1 in an area hospital.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 27, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Monday announced several new measures to stem the rising number of cases of the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“At a time when Kentucky is dealing with a surge in the coronavirus, knowing where other states have gone and knowing what it takes to stop it from happening here, let’s remember that we’re going to get through this, and we’re going to get through this together, but it’s going to require us to do what’s necessary,” the Governor said. “Wherever you live in Kentucky, the virus is spreading. Our state government and the federal administration have significant agreement on what we need to do right now to make sure we don’t turn into Florida, Texas, Arizona, so many other states going through what could be absolutely devastating for them.”

So, today Gov. Beshear announced the following steps:

• Bars will be closed for two weeks, effective tomorrow, Tuesday, July 28.
• Restaurants will be limited to 25% of pre-pandemic capacity indoors; outdoor accommodations remain limited only by the ability to provide proper social distancing.
• Public and private schools are being asked to avoid offering in-person instruction until the third week of August.

To view the order from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services covering the new restrictions, which goes into effect at midnight tonight, click here.

The Governor and the Kentucky Department for Public Health will monitor case numbers over the next two weeks with the goal of reopening bars and restoring restaurant capacity after that time.

“Let me say, there are a lot of really responsible bar owners out there, and I hate requiring this for them. They are paying for the actions of others, and it’s not fair, but this virus isn’t fair either,” the Governor said. “On restaurants, again, they can do unlimited outdoor seating as long as they can sufficiently spread guests out under social distancing guidelines, and we are going to work with our cities and localities to do what we need to do administratively to allow that outside seating to expand. This is going to hurt a lot of restaurants. But the White House modeling shows that this is absolutely necessary to control the spread at this time when we either become the next Florida, or we get it under control and save the lives of our people and protect our economy.”

Gov. Beshear noted that all of today’s actions were conceived through and backed by guidance from the White House. He said we are currently at a point seen in Florida and Arizona before both of those states saw their cases grow to a point that has threatened their health care infrastructure, which puts even more lives in danger.

Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, highlighted the fact that our fate is in all of our hands when it comes to fighting the coronavirus.

“This is not outside of our control. Our actions can have a positive impact. One point I want to emphasize is that it’s not politics if you have President Trump and Governor Beshear making the same recommendations. It’s not politics. This is science. If we work together through this, we can succeed,” Dr. Stack said. “Back when we were Healthy at Home, we crushed the curve. … But when we started lifting restrictions, our mobility went right back to normal. So now, if you want to keep Kentucky open and keep your loved ones safe, wear a mask.”

Gov. Beshear noted that he was joined Sunday in Frankfort by Dr. Deborah Birx, response coordinator for the White House’s Coronavirus Task Force. Dr. Birx advised that the growth in Kentucky’s COVID-19 cases and, especially, the commonwealth’s rising test positivity rate is cause not just for concern, but for immediate action. Dr. Birx specifically recommended that the Kentucky’s bars close and indoor dining capacity be limited.  

“We are in an escalation of cases, where our positivity rate also continues to increase. This virus is now escalating and spreading so much statewide that statewide action is necessary. That’s the opinion of the Trump administration, and that’s the position of this state government. It’s every expert on the federal level and at our state level,” said Gov. Beshear.

Even before Dr. Birx’s visit, Gov. Beshear and his administration officials were making targeted moves to stop the spread of the virus in Kentucky. Last Monday, Gov. Beshear’s administration issued a new travel advisory that recommends a 14-day self-quarantine for Kentuckians who travel to states and U.S. territories that are reporting a positive coronavirus testing rate equal to or greater than 15%. For an updated list of areas meeting that threshold, click here. In addition, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services issued a new order pulling back the guidance on non-commercial gatherings to allow only for meet-ups of 10 or fewer people.

Gov. Beshear said his new recommendation for schools is the only path toward getting, eventually, back to in-person instruction.

“By waiting until the third week of August, we believe it gives us a chance to get this thing under better control, to get more people wearing that facial covering and to get us in a place where we can handle this in a much better way,” said Gov. Beshear. “My concern is if schools start before this, we’ll see cases in schools. And if we see a lot of early cases in schools, it will be harder to get all of our schools open for in-person classes in some way that works for those families.”

Case Information – Monday, July 27
As of 4 p.m. July 27, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 27,601 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 522 of which were newly reported Monday. Twenty-one of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger, including a 4-month-old from Jessamine County and a 9-month-old from Bullitt County.

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported nine new deaths Monday, raising the total to 709 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Monday include a 74-year-old woman from Bell County; four men, ages 70, 71, 82 and 98, and three women, ages 61, 76 and 84, from Jefferson County; and 61-year-old man from Livingston County.

“I don’t want to be a state where casket-makers are running out of their caskets, that they’re loaded into 18-wheelers to come to us. I don’t want to be a state that has to order one of these freezer trucks because their morgues run out of space. I don’t want to be a state that runs out of ICU beds and one of your loved ones doesn’t have space. I don’t want to be a state where a doctor has to look at 10 young people, knowing they have three ventilators, and possibly make a decision on who lives and who dies,” said Gov. Beshear. “By taking action right now, we can keep all of that from happening.”

As of Monday, there have been at least 588,926 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.58%. At least 7,466 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Case Information – Sunday, July 26
Due to limited reporting on the weekends, some updated information is now available from Sunday, July 26.

As of Sunday, there were 586,679 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate was at 5.51% and at least 7,464 Kentuckians had recovered from the virus.

For a detailed look at coronavirus case information from Sunday, July 26, click here.

Fiscal Year 2020 Budget Update
Expanding on some good news about fiscal year 2020, Gov. Beshear announced today that the General Fund revenues ended up $104.6 million above the budgeted estimate, at a total of nearly $12 billion. The General Fund surplus will be $177.5 million.

“COVID-19 has upended all of our lives, and what it’s going to do to our budget next year, without federal assistance, will be devastating. We believe it could cause the single largest budget cuts in our state’s history, and we hope Congress will act,” said Gov. Beshear. “But what I can tell you is that this year’s budget has turned out to be one of the better budgets we’ve had here in a while in Kentucky. We did not end the year with a deficit; we ended up $177.5 million in the black. … I hope the people of Kentucky know how fiscally responsible this administration is committed to being, especially during this crisis.”

Previously, Gov. Beshear said the improved economic footing means:

• No budget cuts to K-12 education, post-secondary education, and health and public safety, and
• No cuts to the Judicial or Legislative branch budgets.

The Governor also has said an increase in lottery revenues would result in another $15 million for need-based student financial aid this coming school year.

After holding back $15 million for necessary government expenses, Gov. Beshear said the $162.5 million going to the rain day fun, which is called the Budget Reserve Trust Fund, will  bring it up to $465.7 million, which is the largest deposit to the fund from a year-end surplus.

“This extra amount to the rainy day fund is good, because we’re going to need it. As good as this looks, next year looks just as bad,” said Gov. Beshear.

Gov. Beshear cautioned that the outlook for fiscal year 2021 remains challenging.

He said that although the Road Fund revenue posted a shortfall of $60.3 million, no cuts were being made to the state construction program due to lower spending and help from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

Gov. Beshear emphasized that successfully fighting to stop the spread of COVID-19 remains the most important component to safeguarding our economy.

Unemployment Insurance Claims Update
Amy Cubbage, general counsel of the Labor Cabinet, provided an update Monday on the state’s efforts to address the unprecedented number of unemployment insurance claims brought on by the pandemic.

There currently are approximately 68,000 initial claims waiting for resolution, though some significant percentage of those are duplicates. This includes 4,900 claims filed in March, 22,000 filed in April and 20,000 filed in May.

Of the 68,000 initial claims, approximately 63,000 have been investigated and are awaiting a written Notice of Determination.

“When someone loses a job and files an unemployment claim, it could be disputed or undisputed, and a claim could be disputed for multiple reasons. The undisputed claims are obviously the easy ones. We can process those quickly and get payments out. But if a claim is disputed, federal law requires the Office of Unemployment Insurance to issue a formal, written adjudication of the dispute,” said Cubbage. “That is a federal rule. We can’t waive that.”

Testing Update
Responding to some reports that some seeking coronavirus testing still are being asked to provide a doctor’s order, administration officials reiterated that the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Public Health (DPH) issued an order removing any such requirement to receive a COVID-19 test.

Kentuckians can sign up for molecular diagnostic testing at more than 200 locations throughout the state, listed by county at kycovid19.ky.gov.

More Information
Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov, kycovid19.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Kentuckians can also access translated COVID-19 information and daily summaries of the Governor’s news conference at tinyurl.com/kygovespanol (Spanish) and tinyurl.com/kygovtranslations (more than 20 additional languages).

Early this (Monday) morning, The Columbia Police Department initiated a knock and talk at a residence on Guthrie Street with suspected drug activity. Once contact was made with the resident, an odor of marijuana was detected by Officers and entry was made. The homeowner stated she had recently used methamphetamine. A search of the home yielded suspected methamphetamine as well as marijuana. 

While on general patrol, a CPD Officer came upon a vehicle sitting at the stop sign at the intersection of Miller Avenue and Jamestown Street. The Officer was behind the vehicle for approximately 4 minutes with the operator not proceeding to turn, despite no oncoming traffic.

Once the Officer initiated his lights to stop and do a welfare check, the operator suddenly pulled onto Jamestown Street before pulling off the roadway. After contact was made with the driver, the male subject was asked to step out of the vehicle to which he complied and initially gave consent to search the auto. The subject however kept putting his hands in his pockets despite verbal commands to stop. It was at this time the driver was handcuffed for safety and a small bag of suspected methamphetamine was found in the parties’ pants pocket.

After this was found, the male subject rescinded his consent to search the vehicle. K9 Unit Nitro from The Adair County Sheriff’s Office was utilized and alerted on the car where another small bag of suspected methamphetamine was located on the driver’s side.

John Thomas Giles, 50, of Columbia, KY was taken into custody and charged with resisting arresting, disorderly conduct 2nd degree, and possession of a controlled substance methamphetamine (a class D felony).

CPD Officer Trevor Foster was the arresting Officer. He was assisted on scene by Officer Jamie Cole and Deputy Josh Durbin.

Julian Rosa Guadlupe, 61, of Russell Springs was taken into custody by Deputy Meyer just before 11 last evening. Guadlupe was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs 1st (Aggravated Circumstances), No Operators-Moped License and Leaving the Scene of Accident – Failure to Render Aid or Assistance.  He was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center. 

Deanna Sue Copper, 58, of Columbia was taken into custody by Officer Foster with the Columbia Police Department at 3 a.m. this morning on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 2nd Offense (Methamphetamine) and Possession of Marijuana. She was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail. 

Local Corona Virus Update 7-27-20

Russell County had 1 new case Sunday. The new case is a 16 year old male who is self-isolated. We now have 15 cases which 14 are on self-isolation and 1 is hospitalized at Central Baptist in Lexington.

Adair County NO NEW CASES of COVID19 Sunday. We released 4 yesterday. We have 32 active cases with 31 in home isolation and 1 in an area hospital.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 26, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Sunday updated Kentuckians on the commonwealth’s ongoing fight against the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“I want you to know that the White House and Kentucky state government are in complete agreement that the escalation of cases is going to require us to take some new steps,” said Gov. Beshear. “We’re going to announce those steps tomorrow and we’ll talk through the what and the why behind each one.” 

Case Information
As of 3 p.m. July 26, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 27,079 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 316 of which were newly reported Sunday. 8 new cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“Kentucky is in that spot now where if we don’t act, we will look a lot like states in the South that are facing devastating consequences,” said Gov. Beshear. “Thankfully today’s numbers are lower than what we’ve seen recently, but we know less testing comes in on Sundays.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 4 new deaths Sunday, raising the total to 700 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Sunday include a 70-year-old woman from Harlan County; a 37-year-old man and an 87-year-old woman from Jefferson County; and a 76-year-old man from Ohio County. 

“Last week was a difficult one in the United States and in Kentucky,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health. “Nationally, cases surpassed 4.1 million, and in our commonwealth, over 27,000 cases have now been reported. It seems like an eternity since we reported Kentucky’s first positive COVID-19 patient on March 6. Every day is important and the upcoming week will determine which additional measures will be needed to blunt the increase of COVID-19 in our commonwealth. Please avoid crowds, socially distance at least six feet and wear a face covering when in public. Together, Team Kentucky can beat COVID-19.”

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Week in Review
Visit the Governor’s website for more information on this week’s updates, including those on: the new travel advisory, social gatherings limited to 10 people, Kentucky Commercialization Ventures, the state budget, long-term care testing and Healthy at School.

More Information
Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov, kycovid19.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

• July 14, 2020-Minutes-Regular Called
• July 17, 2020-Minutes-Special Called

• 2019-2020 YEAR END SETTLEMENT

• LINE TO LINE TRANSFERS
• FUND TO FUND TRANSFERS                                    

  7.  READING OF ROADS

• 2020-2021 HEALTH DEPARTMENT BUDGET
• LEASE AGREEMENT FOR ELECTION SPOT AT A-1 GATE

• Edward Simpson, 44, of Columbia was arrested on Saturday afternoon by ACSO for Receiving Stolen Property and was served 2 warrants for other police agencies. He was lodged in the Adair Co. Regional Jail.

• Terri Garner, 37, Russell Springs was arrested by RCSO on Friday evening for Driving on a DUI Suspended License, 2nd offense (Aggravating Circumstance), No License in Possession, DUI 4th or more offense, and TBUT (Auto) - over $500. She was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

• Stephen Valli, 61, Stout, Ohio was arrested by Fish & Wildlife Officer Carney on Saturday night for Failure to Illuminate Navigation Lights, Non-approved Floatation Device, Operating a Boat/Watercraft while Intoxicated; Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct, and Assault 3rd Degree (of a Peace Officer). He was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Deaths: We are pleased to report no new deaths today. We have experienced a total of 37 deaths resulting in a 4.1% mortality rate among known cases.

Hospitalizations: We presently have 9 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 102 hospitalizations resulting in a 11.2% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 73% of ICU beds and 22% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 19 cases today from isolation (recovered). Released cases include: Adair: 1; Casey: 8; Pulaski: 4; Taylor: 3; and, Wayne: 3. In all, we have released 70.9% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 910 cases since the onset of the outbreak. This has resulted in the health department reaching out to over 2780 individuals during our contact tracing.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 228 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 55 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 21 today: Casey: 1; Clinton: 2; Cumberland: 3; McCreary: 2; Pulaski: 8; Russell: 1; Taylor: 2; and, Wayne: 2. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.03. This means our total case count is projected to double every 23.44 days.

New Cases include:

• Casey: 40-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: 50-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: 57-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic 
• Cumberland: 8-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Cumberland: 27-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: 28-year-old male who is self-isolated
• McCreary: 45-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 33-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 13-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 48-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 33-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: 79-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 61-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 21-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 49-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: 88-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Taylor: 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: 20-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: 16-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Wayne: 39-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic 

Last week we added 164 new cases, this week 163. For the last 3 weeks, our growth rate has been higher than the state average, this week we dropped back below state average. Last Saturday we had 7 cases that had ever been hospitalized, this week, 9 (this is a number we really must watch). Last Saturday we had 265 active cases, this week 228. We experienced 4 deaths this week related to COVID-19, and 3 each the 2 weeks prior. 
 

Our growth rate for new cases is now at 1.03 (doubling every 23 days). This was Kentucky’s second highest week of new cases since the outbreak began.

Long-term care centers account for 19.2% of where we see cases associated; places of worship, 17.2%; businesses, 16.2%; travel, 16.2%; and, recreation 13.1% (with several other categories with lesser percentages.

Our numbers are still high and projected to double every 23 days. Therefore, it continues to be important that each of us remain vigilant when it comes to wearing our face coverings, avoiding crowds, social distancing, washing one’s hands frequently, increased sanitation, and with the avoidance of touching one’s face.

The Columbia Police Department responded to a residence on West Barbee Street on Friday night, July 24, 2020 just after 6:30pmCT, that ultimately led to a vehicle pursuit and multiple charges for two individuals.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 25, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Saturday, once again, announced the second-highest single-day total of novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) cases in Kentucky.

“Today’s numbers continue a concerning increase in the number of COVID-19 cases in our commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “We expect to take additional steps next week if the case numbers don’t stabilize.”

Case Information

As of 4 p.m. July 25, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 26,764 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 836 of which were newly reported Saturday. Twenty-two new cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“Yesterday, there were more than 74,000 new cases and more than 1,000 deaths reported across the country,” said Gov. Beshear. “We know how to control this virus. We’ve seen states like New York – which had hospitals overflowing with sick patients in March and April – now reporting a positivity rate of 1% or less. If they can do it, we can do it. But we have to work together, stay smart and wear face coverings.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 5 new deaths Saturday, raising the total to 696 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

“This is the part that never gets easier and never will,” said Gov. Beshear. “Every day that we do the right thing, we are protecting each other from the worst pain imaginable. My heart is with these families every waking moment.”

The deaths reported Saturday include a 79-year-old man from Casey County; an 80-year-old man from Christian County; two women, ages 68 and 93, from Fayette County; and a 66-year-old man from Ohio County.

As of Saturday, there have been at least 582,521 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.41%, the highest rate reported in the last few months* and a sign the disease is spreading more actively in our communities.

“The number of positive cases in Kentucky is on the rise, but we can still avoid the crises confronting other states,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health, referring to other states’ filled ICU beds and increasing deaths. “Our personal choices, right now and every day, will directly determine Kentucky’s situation in early August. Small acts of kindness and personal sacrifice will make a big difference. We can choose to delay a party or picnic.

We can shop for groceries or go to the pharmacy when it’s less crowded. We can opt for an online or drive-up worship service. We can wear a face mask. Every one of us has a role to play in determining Team Kentucky’s future.”

At least 7,421 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Week in Review

Visit the Governor’s website for more information on this week’s updates, including those on: the new travel advisory, social gatherings limited to 10 people, Kentucky Commercialization Ventures, the state budget, long-term care testing and Healthy at School.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 24, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Friday announced the second-highest daily total of new cases of the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in Kentucky.

“Today we are reporting what I believe is the second-highest number of new cases we have had since our first case on March 6, with 797 new cases of COVID-19. That brings our total number of cases to 29,931. What it means is we are continuing to see an increase and a growth that we absolutely have to stop,” said Gov. Beshear. “And we’ll be watching these very carefully through the weekend and if we do not see the numbers come down, we going to have a series of recommendations and steps that we’ll need to take next week.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. July 24, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 25,931 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 797 of which were newly reported Friday. Nineteen new cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“Let’s make sure that we’re more committed than ever,” said Gov. Beshear. “Let’s make sure that we are not violating these basic rules that we know can help us. Let’s make sure we realize that each and every one of our actions can impact someone else. And let’s just realize that this thing is escalating in Kentucky, that we’re seeing more cases than we ever imagined before. And now is the time for everybody to recognize the severity of the situation that we’re in.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 7 new deaths Friday, raising the total to 691 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

“Let’s remember these families need our help,” said Gov. Beshear. “And because of the surge in cases, we’re probably going to see more families out there in the near future need our help. So let’s not get tired. Let’s light our houses up green. Let’s ring those bells every single morning at 10 a.m. People need us now more than ever not just to wear a facial covering. Not just to engage in social distancing. Not just to cut their social occasions at their home to 10 not just to cancel your vacation if you’re going to any state that has a 15% positivity rate. But also they need your compassion. And they need your help when they have suffered the worst.”

The deaths reported Friday include an 81-year-old man from Boone County; a 59-year-old woman from Hardin County; an 85-year-old woman and an 82-year-old man from Jefferson County; a 66-year-old man from Oldham County; and two women, ages 54 and 74, from Warren County.

“Again, how we manage this crisis, whether we can bring down cases is going to determine how many lives we lose,” said Gov. Beshear. “It’s going to determine what economic impact we have going forward because our reopening and our economy are now tied to how well we deal with this virus. And it’s going to be directly related to when we can get our kids back in school for in-person classes.”

As of Friday, there have been at least 574,233 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.28%, the highest ever reported in Kentucky. At least 7,396 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Ernst & Young Contract to Help with Unemployment Claims Extended
Today, Gov. Beshear announced that he is extending Ernst & Young’s contract to help process unemployment claims, after the firm met and exceeded expectations in July.

“Today we’re also announcing on the unemployment side, that we are extending our contract with Ernst & Young for another five weeks to continue assisting with our unemployment insurance claims,” said Gov. Beshear. “When we announced the contract with EY three-and-a-half-weeks ago, I said I hoped that we could get through 50,000 claims. As of yesterday, EY had helped with more than 56,000 claims, with two days to go on the current contract. Thus far, EY has met all expectations.”

He added that the number of Ernst & Young employees will decrease during the additional five weeks of the $4.4 million extension and that the new contract and the original contract with Ernst & Young would not impact the state’s normal budget.

“The renewed five-week contract and the original contract are both coming from our CARES Act funding and not the General Fund,” said Gov. Beshear.

Finally, Gov. Beshear emphasized that the partnership with Ernst & Young has helped state government employees assist more Kentuckians in-person and has led to much faster resolution of claims.

“If our staff were to drop everything and only work on the issues EY has been working on, it would have taken three months we think to do the work that they have done to date. That means in-person services would have stopped and we would’ve fallen further behind,” said Gov. Beshear. “But this new contract is going to continue to help us catch up, not just on initial claims where we are doing much better, but those issues that arise with the second and third payments where people may have made an error in requesting those. There is a significant amount of those out there and we think we can move through them very fast.”

Since the pandemic began, there have been more than 1 million claims filed for unemployment insurance, paying out more than $3.23 billion to Kentuckians since March.

Kentucky Commercialization Ventures Launched
Today, Gov. Beshear announced the formation of Kentucky Commercialization Ventures (KCV), a public-private partnership aiming to grow the commonwealth’s tech sector jobs and startups.

KCV will help develop innovations from the state’s public universities and colleges into market-ready products, services and businesses.

Funded by $1.155 million in contracts through KY Innovation, the state’s office for entrepreneurial and small business support within the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, KCV brings together the commercialization offices at the University of Louisville and University of Kentucky with the Kentucky Science and Technology Corp.

As well, it partners with Eastern Kentucky University, Western Kentucky University, Northern Kentucky University, Kentucky State University, Morehead State University, Murray State University and the Kentucky Community & Technical College System. KCV’s model is nationally unique in partnering every public university and community and technical college in the state to create a state-funded, shared and dedicated resource for commercialization of innovations from those institutions. 

“Folks, it’s really hard to go out there a recruit a fortune 500 or 100 company to move their location,” said Gov. Beshear.

“There’s lots of reasons that’s difficult. But some of the largest companies in America right now were started not that long ago by great ideas that ultimately grew into large companies. By trying to foster the innovation, by trying to support the very best ideas that are out there, we can build a brighter future based on our own intellectual capabilities and intellectual capital. This is a way that we invest to make sure that our future can be based on Kentucky born, Kentucky bred and Kentucky raised companies that can employee a lot of Kentuckians in high-end and well-paying jobs.”

More Information
Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov, kycovid19.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Kentuckians can also access translated COVID-19 information and daily summaries of the Governor’s news conference at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

Adair County 3 new COVID19 cases to report Thursday. We have released 2 yesterday.

We have 27 active cases all on home isolation.

Russell County 2 new cases Thursday, a 25 year old male and a 83 year old female which are both on home self-isolation. We now have 18 active cases which are all on self-isolation. No cases hospitalized.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 23, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Thursday updated Kentuckians on the state’s ongoing fight against the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“This week we have seen some of our highest number of cases of the coronavirus going all the way back to the start of dealing with this pandemic in Kentucky on March 6,” said Gov. Beshear. “These results ought not to make us panic but it also ought to make us get back into the habits that we know help defeat this virus.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. July 23, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 25,147 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 611 of which were newly reported Thursday. Twenty-one new cases were from children age 5 and younger.

“Today is one of the highest days we’ve had. Let’s remember every day with a high number of cases is a day we don’t want to have,” said Gov. Beshear. “We continue to see hospital systems in the states to our south running out of ICU beds.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 7 new deaths Thursday, raising the total to 684 Kentuckians lost to the virus. The deaths reported Thursday include a 60-year-old woman from Casey County; a 49-year-old woman from Fayette County, a 57-year-old woman from Jefferson County; a 64-year-old woman from Knox County; two women, ages 88 and 89, from Ohio County; and a 68-year-old woman from Whitley County.

“We’re reporting seven deaths today, and the spread in ages ought to tell us something. The way we need to look at this is everybody can get this virus. No one is immune,” said Gov. Beshear. “Let’s remember to ring those bells – we do it here in the Rotunda every day. Let’s turn on those green lights.”

As of Thursday, there have been at least 565,490 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 4.94%.

At least 7,046 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Long-Term Care Testing Update
Today, Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander announced that all staff at congregate residential settings serving older or disabled adults will get a molecular diagnostic test for COVID-19 at least every 14 days. Staff who test positive will be tested again for confirmation, and symptomatic residents will also be tested.

From August through the end of 2020, the state anticipates that 65,000 tests per month will be conducted in these facilities, which include: nursing facilities, nursing homes, intermediate care facilities, intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities, personal care homes and assisted living communities. The testing will be conducted by clinical labs that the state pays directly.

Secretary Friedlander also announced that the federal government has allocated an additional $5 billion going to nursing and veterans facilities across the country to help with PPE and testing. The federal government will also be providing more rapid testing equipment to nursing facilities in the hardest-hit areas of the country.

“Today I signed a contract that will allow laboratories to bill us directly for maintenance testing of staff and residents at all nursing facilities across Kentucky,” said Secretary Friedlander. “We continue to want to support our nursing facilities, we’re glad to partner with the federal government so we can have a consistent program and keep our folks safe.”

Fiscal Year 2020 Budget Update
Yesterday, the Governor said in the midst of an incredibly challenging pandemic, he was pleased to report some good economic news.

The Governor said the official numbers for fiscal year 2020 – the filing for which was extended from April 15 to July 15 this year due to the pandemic – will show a surplus. He noted that it is a marked improvement from May 22, when a revised revenue estimate expected a shortfall of $457 million. He said the Office of the State Budget Director will issue final end-of-the-fiscal-year numbers and details after the books officially close this weekend.

In immediate practical terms, this improved economic footing means:

• No budget cuts to K-12 education, post-secondary education, and health and public safety, and
• No cuts to the Judicial or Legislative branch budgets.

Gov. Beshear said his administration’s cost-saving moves also were expected to result in a more than 18% increase of the state’s rainy day fund, the Budget Reserve Trust Fund, and an increase in lottery revenues would result in another $15 million for need-based student financial aid this coming school year.

Gov. Beshear emphasized that despite these encouraging signs, the economic outlook in Kentucky remains extremely difficult and successfully fighting to stop the spread of COVID-19 remains the most important component to safeguarding our economy. To learn more, see yesterday’s full release.

Rising Cases Prompt New Actions
On Monday, Gov. Beshear’s administration issued a new travel advisory that recommends a 14-day self-quarantine for Kentuckians who travel to states and U.S. territories that are reporting a positive coronavirus testing rate equal to or greater than 15%. For an updated list of areas meeting that threshold, click here. In addition, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services issued a new order pulling back the guidance on gatherings to allow only for meet-ups of 10 or fewer people.

Safety Reporting Hotline
Gov. Beshear reminded Kentuckians that the COVID-19 reporting hotline is available to help keep everyone safe.

People who witness dangerous non-compliance with coronavirus mandates, including requirements for mask wearing, social distancing and sanitation, at Kentucky businesses are encouraged to call the COVID-19 reporting hotline at 833-KY SAFER (833-597-2337). Labor Cabinet personnel will monitor the line from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. To file a complaint online, click here.

Testing Update
Responding to reports that some seeking coronavirus testing still are being asked to provide a doctor’s order, administration officials reiterated that the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Public Health (DPH) issued an order removing any such requirement to receive a COVID-19 test.

Kentuckians can sign up for molecular diagnostic testing at more than 200 locations throughout the state, listed by county at kycovid19.ky.gov.

On Wednesday, July 22nd, 2020 the Adair County Sheriffs Office responded to a 2-vehicle accident around the 500 block of Blue Ridge Circle Road in Adair County.
 

A preliminary investigation determined that a 2000 Suzuki, being operated by Heather Morrison, 25, of Russell Springs, KY was traveling north, when she crossed the centerline of Blue Ridge Circle and struck a 16ft bumper hitch trailer around its axles. The trailer was being pulled by a 2004 GMC pickup and was being operated by Nathan Dickey, 41, of Columbia, KY. The collision caused Morrison's vehicle to flip and come to rest on its top. 

A Nancy, KY man was arrested on several charges by Kentucky State Police on Wednesday.  Daniel Denham, 49, was taken into custody by Trooper Harper just before 6 last evening. Denham was charged with No Registration Receipt or Plates, Failure to Produce Insurance Card, Failure to Wear Seat Belt, Operating a Motor Vehicle under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs .08 1^st Offense, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia – Buying/Possession and Operating a Motor Vehicle on Expired Operators License. Denham was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Josiah Evans, 24, of Menroe, Tennessee was arrested by Burkesville Police Officer Williams on several charges last night. Evans was charged with Disregarding a Stop Sign, Possession of an Open Alcoholic Beverage Container in Motor Vehicle, Possession of Marijuana, Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs .08 – 1^st Offense, and Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance 1^st Offense. He was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

Adair County reported 4 new COVID19 cases on Wednesday with 3 additional cases being released. Adair County has 26 active cases all in home-isolation.

Russell County reported 1 new case on Wednesday, a 49 year old male who is in self-isolation. 3 cases were released yesterday. There are now 16 active cases in Russell County with 15 who are self-isolated and 1 hospitalized.

Campbellsville Police responded to 102 Hill Street in Campbellsville on Tuesday at approximately 11:00pmET in reference to an individual with a gunshot wound. Once officers arrived on scene, they discovered a 27 year old male who was deceased from a suspected gunshot wound. The victim was identified as James Micheal Carman, 27, of Campbellsville. Carman was pronounced deceased at the scene by Taylor County Coroner Daniel Cook. 

The shooter had fled the scene and has not been arrested, but Campbellsville Police have obtained a warrant and are expecting to make an arrest very soon.

The investigation is being conducted by Campbellsville Police Det./Sgt. Nelson Bishop.

Campbellsville Police was assisted at the scene by Campbellsville Fire, Campbellsville/Taylor County EMS, and Taylor County Coroner’s Office.

The motorcycle accident occurred at 5:09amET this morning on Speck Ridge road in Taylor County. Jonathon Clark, 56, of Columbia, KY swerved to miss a deer in the roadway and lost control of the motorcycle. Clark was taken to Taylor Regional Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 22, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced Wednesday that the state is looking to close out fiscal year 2020 without a shortfall, despite the continuing challenges presented by efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

The Governor also provided an update on the state’s efforts to fight the pandemic as cases here and across the country have surged in recent days.

“It is just so critical that we do the right thing, right now. Today I got a grim report. There is at least one casket maker that is having every single bit of its capacity sent to Georgia and Alabama and Texas, not on the delivery trucks that they’re used to using, but on 18-wheelers,” said Gov. Beshear. “Let’s make sure that Kentucky doesn’t end up in that position.

What we’re dealing with is life or death, but the good news is we are taking the type of aggressive action that should work.”

Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, noted that among Kentucky’s quick and aggressive actions is its robust testing regime. However, he warned against believing that alone is a panacea in this fight.

“We have come light years away from where we were a couple months ago on testing, but we cannot test our way out of poor decision making,” said Dr. Stack. “We cannot test our way out of bad judgement. You don’t solve an infection with a test. You prevent an infection with a mask.”

Fiscal Year 2020 Budget Update
While staying focused on the pandemic fight, the Governor said he was pleased to report some good economic news.

Gov. Beshear credited the hard work of Cabinet leaders and state agency officials as the state’s General Fund revenues for fiscal year 2020 came in far higher than was expected only months ago. The Governor praised the administrators of all state agencies, who were asked to reduce spending by a 1% annualized amount in the last two months. He said they did better than that, by limiting hiring and holding the line on discretionary expenses without reducing levels of service.

The Governor said the official numbers for fiscal year 2020 – the filing for which was extended from April 15 to July 15 this year due to the pandemic – will show a surplus. He noted that it is a marked improvement from May 22, when a revised revenue estimate expected a shortfall of $457 million. He said the Office of the State Budget Director will issue final end-of-the-fiscal-year numbers and details after the books officially close this weekend.

In immediate practical terms, this improved economic footing means:

• No budget cuts to K-12 education, post-secondary education, and health and public safety, and
• No cuts to the Judicial or Legislative branch budgets.

Gov. Beshear said the cost-saving moves also were expected to result in a more than 18% increase of the state’s rainy day fund, the Budget Reserve Trust Fund, and an increase in lottery revenues would result in another $15 million for need-based student financial aid this coming school year.

Gov. Beshear emphasized that despite these encouraging signs, the economic outlook in Kentucky remains extremely difficult and successfully fighting to stop the spread of COVID-19 remains the most important component to safeguarding our economy.

The key to protecting both the health and safety of Kentuckians and the state’s economy, Gov. Beshear said, was everyone adhering to guidelines, in particular his recent mandate on face coverings in most public places.

He noted that the governors of Ohio and Indiana in recent days have followed Kentucky’s lead in announcing statewide face covering mandates.

“They have followed our lead. The step that we took is the right step. This is going to help and make Kentucky’s response more effective,” said Gov. Beshear. “These are two governors that I respect. This region requiring facial coverings should help all of us and it should show you that there is no political division in what is the right public health response. This is the difference between life and death.”

He pointed to recent analysis by Goldman Sachs that found the simple act of wearing a mask, if adopted widely, would save 5% of Kentucky’s Gross State Product – a total of more than $10 billion.

Despite the better than expected year-end fiscal news, Gov. Beshear said threats to the fiscal year 2021 budget remain.

Among the challenges:

• Fourth quarter General Fund revenues, from April through June, declined by almost 8%, which is the worst fiscal quarter Kentucky has experienced since the Great Recession.
• Road Fund revenues during the same quarter declined by 23.5%.

Gov. Beshear also reiterated his appeal to congressional leaders to provide additional federal relief through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act or other means. Without such funding, the Governor warned that budget cuts in fiscal year 2021 would be deeper even than those implemented during the Great Recession.

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. July 22, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 24,540 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 518 of which were newly reported Wednesday. Fourteen new cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“Our positivity rate has gone up. That is a concern and that shows it’s not just an increase in testing, it’s more people that are being tested are showing positive results,” the Governor said. “That’s why we’re going to do what it takes to defeat the coronavirus.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 3 new deaths Wednesday, raising the total to 677 Kentuckians lost to the virus. The deaths include a 69-year-old woman from Allen County, a 49-year-old woman from Simpson County and an 81-year-old man from Webster County.

“There are a couple of new counties that are experiencing loss. Let’s remember those green lights and those bells,” said Gov. Beshear. “I believe the families that lose their loved ones four months into this virus deserve our support just as much as those we lost earlier. The fewer people we can get infected, the fewer we will lose.”

As of Wednesday, there have been at least 560,161 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 4.92%.

At least 7,000 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus. On Wednesday, Gov. Beshear shared an inspiring story of recovery that was reported by WLKY.

“There are good signs out there. After being hospitalized for 116 days, Rhonda King, who is 56, has gone home after recovering from COVID-19,” said Gov. Beshear. “She was in a medically induced coma on a ventilator. Despite this, her husband called three times a day so she could hear his voice and he could remind her of her strength. Rhonda began to improve after receiving a plasma donation from a COVID-19 survivor. There are multiple heroes in this real-life story: our frontline heroes in the hospital and rehab center; her plasma donor; her husband, Anthony; and her, putting up that fight to defeat this virus.”

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Rising Cases Prompt New Actions
On Monday, Gov. Beshear’s administration issued a new travel advisory that recommends a 14-day self-quarantine for Kentuckians who travel to states and U.S. territories that are reporting a positive coronavirus testing rate equal to or greater than 15%. For an updated list of areas meeting that threshold, click here. In addition, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services issued a new order pulling back the guidance on gatherings to allow only for meet-ups of 10 or fewer people.

Safety Reporting Hotline
Gov. Beshear reminded Kentuckians that the COVID-19 reporting hotline is available to help keep everyone safe.

People who witness dangerous non-compliance with coronavirus mandates, including requirements for mask wearing, social distancing and sanitation, at Kentucky businesses are encouraged to call the COVID-19 reporting hotline at 833-KY SAFER (833-597-2337). Labor Cabinet personnel will monitor the line from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. To file a complaint online, click here.

Testing Update
Responding to reports that some seeking coronavirus testing still are being asked to provide a doctor’s order, administration officials reiterated that the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Public Health (DPH) issued an order removing any such requirement to receive a COVID-19 test.

Kentuckians can sign up for molecular diagnostic testing at more than 200 locations throughout the state, listed by county at kycovid19.ky.gov.

More Information
Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov, kycovid19.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Kentuckians can also access translated COVID-19 information and daily summaries of the Governor’s news conference at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

According to Fire Chief H.M. Bottom, the department responded just east of the Eli exit on the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Parkway where a semi and the semi bed were fully engulfed in flames. The driver had tried to extinguish the blaze, which was thought to have started from the heat in a wheel barring, but the fire quickly got out of control and caught the pallets that were being hauled on the trailer of the truck on fire. The truck was owned by Walbert Trucking Company of Glasgow, KY.

The Russell Springs Fire Dept. was assisted by the Eli Fire Department and the Transportation Department. Firemen were on the scene for about 3 hours.

Area Arrest…

Taylor Nivens age 24, of Burkesville was taken into custody by Deputy Watson with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office just after 6 last evening. Nivens was charges with

Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition all other over $10,000 or More but Under 1 Million.

Adair County had 1 new case of COVID19 to report yesterday. We released 3 additional cases. We have 25 active cases all on home isolation.

Russell County NO new cases Tuesday. We had 2 cases released. We now have 18 active cases which 17 are on self-isolation and 1 is hospitalized.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 21, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Tuesday updated Kentuckians on continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) as officials reported the second-highest number of cases in a single day.

“Here in Kentucky, our surge continues as well. Today we are reporting our second-highest daily total of 674 new cases. That’s not good news,” the Governor said. “We have got to be committed to doing better, and I do see a lot of that out there. We’ve got to make sure we are not one of these other states where their cases are exploding. We still have time to act. But we have got to know that we are on that trajectory, we are on that path, without everybody doing the right thing."

Gov. Beshear stressed the need for everyone to adhere to the mandates and advisories – all based on the guidance and science provide by the White House and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

He noted that on Monday he issued a new travel advisory that recommends a 14-day self-quarantine for Kentuckians who travel to nine states – Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Mississippi, Nevada, South Carolina and Texas – and Puerto Rico, which are reporting a positive coronavirus testing rate equal to or greater than 15%. In addition, the Cabinet for Health and Family Services issued a new order pulling back the guidance on gatherings to allow only for meet-ups of 10 or fewer people.

“This is the time for statewide action, coming together to get this done,” the Governor said.

He said Kentucky’s facial covering requirement in particular would effectively slow the increase in coronavirus cases, but only if people wear masks.

“It will work. It will absolutely work, and we can do almost everything we want to do,” Gov. Beshear said.

“From saving lives to keeping the economy open, if we can do that and get this thing under control, it will make what we can do in schools so much easier. But we need your buy-in to do it.”

Analyzing the numbers, Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, said the state’s recent rise in cases is a stark reminder to be more disciplined about wearing masks, maintaining social distance and washing and sanitizing our hands.

“These numbers today are not a surprise,” Dr. Stack said. “They unfortunately validate where we are on this journey. Having nearly 700 new positives puts us solidly at the base of that escalation of the curve. It’s consistent with what we’ve seen in the last week where our numbers clearly broke out of a multimonth stable period.”

Healthy at School Update
Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman on Tuesday provided a Healthy at School update on the state’s efforts to help districts make healthy and safe decisions on reopening schools.

“At the heart of every reopening plan should be the health and safety of every child and every adult in the building, as well as every family they go home to at night,” said Lt. Gov. Coleman, an educator who also serves as secretary of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet. “That should be first and foremost.”

The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the state’s Healthy at School guidelines, which promote best practices including social distancing, cloth face coverings, contact tracing, sanitation and health screenings.

She also touted expanded flexibility the state is extending to school district officials so they can make decisions about what is best for their students, teachers and school staffers. Among the new provisions being allowed for the coming school year are unlimited non-traditional instruction (NTI) days, removing “daily average attendance” requirements for funding, an expanded care program and unlimited COVID-19-related emergency days for teachers and staff in quarantine.

Lt. Gov. Coleman said she will be taking part Thursday in a Kentucky Department of Education virtual town hall with educators and staffers to talk about issues related to reopening schools.

In addition, the Lieutenant Governor said she sent a letter to U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos and Kentucky’s congressional leadership explaining the health and safety challenges facing schools across the commonwealth and appealing for additional funding for Kentucky schools through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

“All of our schools and college campuses have to keep students safe and they have to keep them learning,” Lt. Gov. Coleman said. “Today I urge Congress and our national leaders to meet this moment so that we can meet the needs of our communities in this unprecedented time.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. July 21, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 24,060 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 674 of which were newly reported Tuesday. Twenty-three new cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

Pointing to a map breaking down the state’s cases by county, the Governor said there is no region of Kentucky that is safe from COVID-19.

“There is only one way to address this virus, and that’s with statewide policies. Because when you can have 100 cases (in one county) over the course of a week, surely to God we all want to prevent that, and not to say, 'There’s not a problem here,’ until it’s out of control,” he said. “That would be taking approaches like we’re seeing in other states where the numbers have to be in the thousands before we act.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported three new deaths Tuesday, raising the total to 674 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Tuesday include a 63-year-old man from Calloway County, a 91-year-old woman from Casey County and a 95-year-old man from Shelby County.

“Today we’re sad to announce three new deaths. Yes, the deaths are lower, which we like to see, but remember, they lag by about 14 days or more from the announced cases,” Gov. Beshear said. “Again, we continue to see a lot of people in their 60s passing away, and I hope none of us believes that is old.”

As of Tuesday, there have been at least 549,208 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 4.37%. At least 6,928 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Safety Reporting Hotline
Gov. Beshear reminded Kentuckians that the COVID-19 reporting hotline is available to help keep everyone safe.

People who witness dangerous non-compliance with coronavirus mandates, including requirements for mask wearing, social distancing and sanitation, at Kentucky businesses are encouraged to call the COVID-19 reporting hotline at 833-KY SAFER (833-597-2337). Labor Cabinet personnel will monitor the line from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. To file a complaint online, click here.

Testing Update
Responding to reports that some seeking coronavirus testing still are being asked to provide a doctor’s order, administration officials reiterated that the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Public Health (DPH) issued an order removing any such requirement to receive a COVID-19 test.

Kentuckians can sign up for molecular diagnostic testing at more than 200 locations throughout the state, listed by county at kycovid19.ky.gov.

WAVE NEWS spoke to Jamestown Mayor Nick Shearer over the odd taste of the water coming from the Jamestown Water Department. According to Shearer the issue is being caused by the lake level. The Water Department has had to move the line deeper and when they do that, the water will go through a period of tasting bad. According to the Mayor it should start improving this week. Monticello has been having the same issue due to the lake level. 
 

Russell County had 4 new cases Monday: 18 and 30 year old males and 44 and 68 year old females, all on home self-isolation.

Adair County reported 3 new COVID19 cases on Monday. 8 were released yesterday. There are 27 active cases in Adair County, all on home isolation.

The Russell County School Board met last night in their regular monthly session. Superintendent Michael Ford spoke to WAVE NEWS following the meeting.....

On Saturday at 11:43amCT, the Adair County Fire Department received a call of a residential house fire at 6671 Pellham Branch Road. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy fire and smoke coming from the roof area of the home. The home was owned Michael and Kathy Jones and was a total loss. There were 17 firemen on the scene for 4 hours. The Breeding Area Volunteer Fire Department assisted at the scene.

On Wednesday, the Columbia Fire Department received their newest engine (Engine 4) which is a 2020 Sutphen Monarch. It replaces the 1986 Pierce Pumper that the City has used as its "first out" pumper since October 1986. On Friday afternoon, the new fire truck responded to its first call at exit 49 on the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Parkway.

A Russell County man was taken into custody on Sunday for Terroristic Threatening.

Jacob Smith, 38, of Russell Springs was taken into custody by Deputy Hughes of the Russell County Sheriffs Office last evening. Smith was charged with Terroristic Threatening 3^rd Degree.

The Columbia Police Department responded to a two vehicle injury accident at the intersection of Jamestown Street and The Veterans Memorial Bypass, Sunday afternoon. 

The accident occurred when Millard Kinnett, 93, of Columbia left the bypass and appeared to be driving straight ahead onto Industrial Park when he drove into the path of a second vehicle on Jamestown Street Highway 55 South, operated by Jessica Brown, 21, of Knightstown, Indiana. After impact, both vehicles came to rest just off roadway.
Kinnett was taken by ambulance to TJ Samson Columbia and was later flown to UK for treatment. Brown, as well as two passengers, a 62 year old female and a 24 year old male were all taken by ambulance to TJ Samson Columbia where the female passenger was later transferred by ambulance to. UofL. Brown had required mechanical extraction from vehicle due to impact damage. 
Officer Adam Cravens investigated the collision, he was assisted on scene by Officer Ethan Pike and Deputy Brandon Hitch. Adair EMS and The Columbia Adair Fire Department also responded. Multiple other motorists also stopped to render aid before first responders arrival.

Gov. Andy Beshear on Sunday announced the largest single-day total of new COVID-19 cases in the commonwealth and warned that Kentuckians could face dire days ahead without renewed efforts by everyone to rein in the virus’ spread.

“We have got to defeat this virus. We are at war and we are in the trenches,” said Gov. Beshear. “I have faith and I have trust in the people of Kentucky. But today and in the days ahead we’ve got to do a whole lot better. We’re going to have to take some more action.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. July 19, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 23,161 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 979 of which were newly reported Sunday. Thirty cases were from children five-years-old or younger.

“We typically have limited reporting on Sunday which makes today’s record-setting number of positives particularly alarming,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health. “In the interest of accuracy, we are going to reach out and confirm results with some of the major labs. Even so, this surge in positive cases is a shocking wake-up call. Kentucky has flattened the curve before and it must act immediately and decisively to flatten it again. Please, wear your mask and socially distance.”

“This ought to be a wake-up call for everybody. This is a rough day for the commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “Thirty children under five who have tested positive. Thirty families whose parents and caregivers are hurting more than anything we can imagine.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported three new deaths Sunday, raising the total to 670 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Sunday include a 67-year-old woman from Clark County; a 74-year-old woman from Jefferson County; and a 58-year-old man from Oldham County.

“Today we’ve lost three individuals, all far too young,” said Gov. Beshear.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Kentucky Supreme Court Keeps Executive Orders Protecting Kentuckians in Place
Gov. Beshear announced Friday that the Kentucky Supreme Court has kept in place all executive orders related to the fight against COVID-19, including the order mandating the wearing of face coverings in many instances, until the court can hear full arguments from the Beshear administration and the attorney general’s office and issue a final ruling. Given the large increases in cases today, the Supreme Court order is even more critical in giving the Governor the authority he needs to protect Kentuckians.

A Boone Circuit Court judge was expected to sign an injunction nullifying many of the Governor’s executive orders on COVID-19. The attorney general challenged the orders Gov. Beshear put in place to protect Kentucky lives, to keep Kentucky from losing more than $10 billion in the economy and to help schools safely reopen this fall.

In an order issued Friday afternoon by unanimous decision, the Supreme Court stated, “Given the need for a clear and consistent statewide public health policy and recognizing that the Kentucky legislature has expressly given the Governor broad executive powers in a public health emergency, the court orders a stay of all orders of injunctive relief until such time as the various orders are properly before the court with a full record of any evidence and pleadings considered by the lower courts.”

To learn more, read the full release.

Retailers Require Masks, Support Statewide Face Coverings Mandate
The Governor is highlighting the many national retailers and small businesses that are now requiring customers to wear masks while shopping to protect the health and safety of all customers and staff members.

Kroger, an invaluable partner in the commonwealth’s testing efforts, announced its decision Wednesday.

Local elected officials like Harlan County Judge-Executive Dan Mosley have also shared their support.

“Masks disappeared like melted snow prior to this week. I’ve been encouraged to see near 100% compliance since Gov. Beshear implemented what was needed to protect our people,” Judge-Executive Mosley said.

Safety Reporting Hotline
Gov. Beshear reminded Kentuckians that the COVID-19 reporting hotline is available to help keep everyone safe.

People who witness dangerous non-compliance with coronavirus mandates, including requirements for mask wearing, social distancing and sanitation, at Kentucky businesses are encouraged to call the COVID-19 reporting hotline at 833-KY SAFER (833-597-2337). Labor Cabinet personnel will monitor the line from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. To file a complaint online, click here.

Testing Update
Responding to some reports that some seeking coronavirus testing still are being asked to provide a doctor’s order, administration officials reiterated Thursday that the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Public Health (DPH) issued an order removing any such requirement to receive a COVID-19 test.

Kentuckians can sign up for molecular diagnostic testing at more than 200 locations throughout the state, listed by county at kycovid19.ky.gov.

More Information
Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov, kycovid19.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Kentuckians can also access translated COVID-19 information and daily summaries of the Governor’s news conference at tinyurl.com/kygovespanol (Spanish) and tinyurl.com/kygovtranslations (more than 20 additional languages).

Statement from the Mayor

It has come to my attention that there is concern about an announcement I made earlier this week.

On Wednesday, July 15, I released a statement making City Hall accessible to the public; only by appointment. This was not an easy decision; but, considering the city has had a reported five positive cases for COVID 19, within our city family, I felt we had no other choice.

I feel it is my responsibility as Mayor to protect the safety and health of our community; as well as all city employees. With that being said, I made this decision.

This is temporary only. We want to ensure that the current situation was not worsening; and, at a standstill with our staff.

If anyone knows me; they know I am a huge supporter of our local businesses; who are the backbone of our community. I would never consider the “closing-down” of our community; but, under these circumstances; felt it was my responsibility to protect and serve all.

Once again, I thank you for your ongoing support; and, most of all for your prayers. I am looking forward to a day in the future with no closings and the ability to see everyone’s smile again. We want to remain positive for you and the community.

God bless each of you.

Mayor Pam Hoots

A Russell County man was taken into custody on charges of assault and unlawful imprisonment…

John Johnson age 29, of Russell Springs, was taken into custody by Deputy Bradshaw with the Russell County Sheriff’s Office just before midnight last night. Johnson with charged with Assault, 4^th Degree, (Domestic Violence) Minor Injury and Unlawful Imprisonment – 1^st Degree.

Adair County had 7 new COVID19 Cases to report yesterday. We released 1 from isolation. This makes us 170 total cases with 110 recovered and 19 deaths. We have 41 active cases all in home isolation.

Russell County had 3 new cases Thursday. We also had a case released. We now have 24 active cases which 23 are on self-isolation and 1 case is hospitalized.

An Adair County woman died yesterday afternoon after a car crash in Casey County.

The Fayette County coroner says 57-year-old Kathleen “Kathy” Goode died around 1:40 p.m. Thursday at UK Chandler Medical Center in Lexington from multiple blunt force trauma.

According to the coroner, Goode was driving a car involved in a two car wreck Thursday around 10: 40 a.m. on West Kentucky 70 and Gum Lick Road in Clementsville in Casey County. She was flown from Clementsville to UK Hospital.

State Police in Columbia are investigating the wreck.

Jim Liebe with WAVE NEWS attended last night school board meeting and filed this report...

The Jamestown City Council met Thursday night for the regular monthly meeting for the city leaders. 

WAVE NEWS was at the meeting and spoke with Mayor Nick Shearer for details on what took place... 

As Announced last week on the WAVE, the Russell County Jaycees will be having a 3 day fair, July 30-Aug 1.

The Jaycee’s announced that things are going to be different, there will be no carnival and not all of the events will take place.

Highlights of events:

Floral Hall
Horse Show
Truck and Tractor Pull
Beauty Pageants (little miss and mr., pre-teen, teen and Miss Russell County Fair only)
Local 4-H/FFA Beef and Dairy Show
Demolition Derby

Now with that said we still have to follow all state, local and CDC guidelines along with any and all governor’s executive orders. There will still be a limited number on attendance.

More details will be announced by the Russell County Jaycee’s in the upcoming days…

Russell County announced 7 new cases on Wednesday. A 16 year old male, 38 year old male, 57 year old female, 60 year old female,41 year old female, 3 month old male, and a 75 year old female. We also had 5 cases released from isolation. We now have 22 cases active which are all on self-isolation.

Adair County had 3 new cases of COVID19 to report yesterday. We have released 2. We have 35 active cases, all on home isolation. No hospitalizations at this time).

A local teacher was named one of the 2021 Valvoline Teacher Award winners yesterday afternoon.

Russell County Schools Donnie Wilkerson from Jamestown Elementary, was named to the list which was released on Wednesday.

Wilkerson and the other 23 teachers from across the state, will be honored at a yet-to-be finalized event in the fall. At that time the Kentucky Elementary, Middle and High School Teachers of the Year will be announced. From this group of three finalists, the Kentucky Teacher of the Year will be named and will represent the state in the National Teacher of the Year competition.

Valvoline will provide the 24 recipients with cash awards. In addition, the three Kentucky Teachers of the Year will receive custom-designed glassware commemorating their accomplishments.

Gov. Beshear Provides Update on COVID-19

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 15, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Wednesday updated Kentuckians on the state’s ongoing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) as cases continue to rise in the commonwealth.

“I think about this journey that we’ve been on, going back to our first case reported on March the 6th. I remember us taking very aggressive action, and while our actions were working watching what happened in New York, with devastating loss and hospitals overrun. I remember how our story wasn’t that story, because we bought in, we accepted the actions that I had to take – not that I wanted to take – but that we had to take to protect human life. And together, we flattened that curve,” the Governor said. “But now what we see is that same thing that was happening in New York happening in areas like Florida and Arizona, with ICUs filled up, and Arizona is ordering freezer trucks because their morgues are full. And here in Kentucky we are in a new time of escalating cases.”

Dr. Steven Stack, the commissioner of the Department for Public Health, urged Kentuckians to remain on guard and resilient in the face of rising coronavirus cases in the commonwealth.

“The climbing number of positive cases is tough news,” said Dr. Stack. “This crisis remains an overwhelming challenge for all of us. The size of the impact on our lives and potential loss of human lives, however, is not outside our influence. Wear a face mask. Keep a social distance of at least six feet. Thoroughly wash your hands. Answer the call if a contact tracer reaches out to you. These steps will save lives and reduce further spread of this dangerous disease that has so terribly disrupted our lives.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. July 15, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 20,677 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 477 of which were newly reported Wednesday.

The Governor emphasized that the rising case numbers show the need for everyone to wear a face covering in public or in close quarters with non-immediate family members, as required by his mandate.

“It shows you how critical this facial covering requirement is,” he said. “And we have to end the silliness. Challenges to this mean the loss of lives and could send us the way of Arizona or Florida, and we don’t want that.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 10 new deaths Wednesday, raising the total to 645 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Wednesday include a 73-year-old man and a 94-year-old woman from Casey County; a 90-year-old woman and a 96-year-old man from Fayette County; a 67-year-old man from Hardin County; two men, ages 70 and 73, and a 67-year-old woman from Jefferson County; an 88-year-old man from Laurel County; and a 71-year-old woman from Logan County.

“We care about each other. We have risen to the challenge of this virus before and we’re ready to do it again,” Gov. Beshear said. “So I need everybody’s best. Remember: Everybody’s counting on you. Their life, it may well be in your hands.”

As of Wednesday, there have been at least 498,179 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 4.62%. At least 5,475 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Safety Reporting Hotline
Gov. Beshear reminded Kentuckians that the COVID-19 reporting hotline is available to help keep everyone safe.

People who witness dangerous non-compliance with coronavirus mandates, including requirements for mask wearing, social distancing and sanitation, at Kentucky businesses are encouraged to call the COVID-19 reporting hotline at 833-KY SAFER (833-597-2337). Labor Cabinet personnel will monitor the hotline from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. EDT. To file a complaint online, click here.

Testing Update
Responding to some reports that some seeking coronavirus testing still are being asked to provide a doctor’s order, administration officials reiterated Wednesday that Gov. Beshear signed an executive order last week removing any such requirement to receive a COVID-19 test.

Gov. Beshear continues to highlight free, drive-through testing that is available through the state’s partnership with Kroger.

This week’s Kroger testing sites are in Independence, Louisville and Lexington. Kentuckians can sign up for COVID-19 molecular diagnostic testing online. Tests are being conducted at the following sites:

Today – Thursday, July 16 – Summit View Academy, 5006 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051

Today – Friday, July 17 – Louisville Southern High School, 8620 Preston Highway, Louisville, KY 40219

Today – Friday, July 17 – Bluegrass Community and Technical College, 500 Newtown Pike, Lexington, KY 40508

More Information
Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov, kycovid19.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Kentuckians can also access translated COVID-19 information and daily summaries of the Governor’s news conference at tinyurl.com/kygovespanol (Spanish) and tinyurl.com/kygovtranslations (more than 20 additional languages).

Gov. Beshear Provides Update on COVID-19

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 15, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Wednesday updated Kentuckians on the state’s ongoing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) as cases continue to rise in the commonwealth.

“I think about this journey that we’ve been on, going back to our first case reported on March the 6th. I remember us taking very aggressive action, and while our actions were working watching what happened in New York, with devastating loss and hospitals overrun. I remember how our story wasn’t that story, because we bought in, we accepted the actions that I had to take – not that I wanted to take – but that we had to take to protect human life. And together, we flattened that curve,” the Governor said. “But now what we see is that same thing that was happening in New York happening in areas like Florida and Arizona, with ICUs filled up, and Arizona is ordering freezer trucks because their morgues are full. And here in Kentucky we are in a new time of escalating cases.”

Dr. Steven Stack, the commissioner of the Department for Public Health, urged Kentuckians to remain on guard and resilient in the face of rising coronavirus cases in the commonwealth.

“The climbing number of positive cases is tough news,” said Dr. Stack. “This crisis remains an overwhelming challenge for all of us. The size of the impact on our lives and potential loss of human lives, however, is not outside our influence. Wear a face mask. Keep a social distance of at least six feet. Thoroughly wash your hands. Answer the call if a contact tracer reaches out to you. These steps will save lives and reduce further spread of this dangerous disease that has so terribly disrupted our lives.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. July 15, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 20,677 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 477 of which were newly reported Wednesday.

The Governor emphasized that the rising case numbers show the need for everyone to wear a face covering in public or in close quarters with non-immediate family members, as required by his mandate.

“It shows you how critical this facial covering requirement is,” he said. “And we have to end the silliness. Challenges to this mean the loss of lives and could send us the way of Arizona or Florida, and we don’t want that.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 10 new deaths Wednesday, raising the total to 645 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Wednesday include a 73-year-old man and a 94-year-old woman from Casey County; a 90-year-old woman and a 96-year-old man from Fayette County; a 67-year-old man from Hardin County; two men, ages 70 and 73, and a 67-year-old woman from Jefferson County; an 88-year-old man from Laurel County; and a 71-year-old woman from Logan County.

“We care about each other. We have risen to the challenge of this virus before and we’re ready to do it again,” Gov. Beshear said. “So I need everybody’s best. Remember: Everybody’s counting on you. Their life, it may well be in your hands.”

As of Wednesday, there have been at least 498,179 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 4.62%. At least 5,475 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Safety Reporting Hotline
Gov. Beshear reminded Kentuckians that the COVID-19 reporting hotline is available to help keep everyone safe.

People who witness dangerous non-compliance with coronavirus mandates, including requirements for mask wearing, social distancing and sanitation, at Kentucky businesses are encouraged to call the COVID-19 reporting hotline at 833-KY SAFER (833-597-2337). Labor Cabinet personnel will monitor the hotline from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. EDT. To file a complaint online, click here.

Testing Update
Responding to some reports that some seeking coronavirus testing still are being asked to provide a doctor’s order, administration officials reiterated Wednesday that Gov. Beshear signed an executive order last week removing any such requirement to receive a COVID-19 test.

Gov. Beshear continues to highlight free, drive-through testing that is available through the state’s partnership with Kroger.

This week’s Kroger testing sites are in Independence, Louisville and Lexington. Kentuckians can sign up for COVID-19 molecular diagnostic testing online. Tests are being conducted at the following sites:

Today – Thursday, July 16 – Summit View Academy, 5006 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051

Today – Friday, July 17 – Louisville Southern High School, 8620 Preston Highway, Louisville, KY 40219

Today – Friday, July 17 – Bluegrass Community and Technical College, 500 Newtown Pike, Lexington, KY 40508

More Information
Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov, kycovid19.ky.gov and the Governor’s official social media accounts Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Kentuckians can also access translated COVID-19 information and daily summaries of the Governor’s news conference at tinyurl.com/kygovespanol (Spanish) and tinyurl.com/kygovtranslations (more than 20 additional languages).

Update: KY 551 Temporary Closure Postponed to Monday in Adair County

Closure for bridge maintenance

SOMERSET, Ky. (July 15, 2020) – The temporary closure of KY 551 that was scheduled to take place tomorrow has been postponed and will now take place on Monday, July 20.

The roadway will be closed to through traffic at mile point 1.8 (Bulters Branch) between David Butler Road and Howard Dublin Road/Cundiff Cemetery Road as crews to perform bridge maintenance. Traffic will detour via KY 901 to KY 1323 and reconnect to KY 551.

The closure will be in place starting at approximately 8 a.m. and ending by 11 a.m. CT.

The date and duration of the closure may be adjusted for inclement weather or other unforeseeable delays.

For Kentucky’s latest traffic and travel information, visit goky.ky.gov or navigate traffic by downloading the free Waze app at www.waze.com. Motorists can also access traffic information for the District 8 counties at www.facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8 and at www.twitter.com/KYTCDistrict8.

Area Arrest for 7-15-2020…

Pamela Polowy age 67, of Columbia, was taken into custody by Deputy Keith with the Adair County Sheriff’s Office just before midnight last night. Polowy was charged with Menacing, Resisting Arrest and Alcohol Intoxication in a Public Place (1^st and 2^nd Offense). She was lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

Adair County Schools were notified yesterday that a high school student tested positive for COVID-19.  Yesterday afternoon we were also informed of a non-related, high school staff member receiving a positive COVID-19 diagnosis.  We will continue notifying the media of any additional positive cases within our student body and staff family.

Our prayers are with all persons being affected by the Coronavirus.


Dr. Pamela A. Stephens,
Superintendent
Adair County Board of Education

WANTED PERSON

***UPDATE***

Gatlinburg, Tennessee (July 14, 2020)  Acting on information received from authorities in Tennessee, McIntosh is believed to be operating a 2004 Mazda Tribute, Silver or Grey in color, with Tennessee License Plate 1E51H2

Means, Kentucky (July 12, 2020) Kentucky State Police Post 8, Morehead, is looking for information of the whereabouts of Harlan Eddie McIntosh, 44 years of age.  Mr. McIntosh is wanted in connection to an Armed Robbery in Menifee County, Kentucky and a Robbery, Kidnapping and Rape 1^st Degree in Powell County, Kentucky.  Mr. McIntosh is 5’-11” tall and weighs approximately 200 pounds.  He has brown hair and blue eyes.  He is considered armed and extremely dangerous.  There are active warrants for his arrest at this time.  Anyone who sees the suspect is advised not to approach him and to contact their local law enforcement or Kentucky State Police Post 8 at (606)784-4127. 

KY 551 to be Temporarily Closed Thursday in Adair County

Closure for bridge maintenance

SOMERSET, Ky. (July 14, 2020) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) advises motorists that KY 551 will be temporarily closed to through traffic at mile point 1.8 (Bulter’s Branch) as crews perform bridge maintenance on Thursday, July 16. 

The closure will be located between David Butler Road and Howard Dublin Road/Cundiff Cemetery Road. Traffic will detour via KY 901 to KY 1323 and reconnect to KY 551.

The closure will be in place starting at approximately 8 a.m. and ending by 11 a.m. CT.

The date and duration of the closure may be adjusted for inclement weather or other unforeseeable delays.

For Kentucky’s latest traffic and travel information, visit goky.ky.gov or navigate traffic by downloading the free Waze app at www.waze.com. Motorists can also access traffic information for the District 8 counties at www.facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8 and at www.twitter.com/KYTCDistrict8.  

On Monday night July 13, Officers responded to Carrie Bolin Drive after multiple 911 calls initially stating a woman had been thrown from a truck.
Upon arrival female victim was found to have leaped from the vehicle on her own to get away from vehicle’s operator and had multiple lacerations on her body consistent with puncture wounds. Female stated she had been assaulted and stabbed by vehicle operator before fleeing and was able to provide Officers with attackers identity. Victim was transported to TJ Samson Columbia by Adair EMS, and was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. 
Some time later the vehicle was located abandoned on Downey Lake Road and was found to have the interior cleaned out with bleach.  
Chris Belcher, 39, of Columbia was located before midnight at a residence four miles down Pelham Branch Road and was promptly taken into custody without incident. He has been charged with assault 2nd degree as well as tampering with physical evidence; a class C and D felony respectively. 
Officer Evan Burton was the arresting Officer. The Columbia Police were assisted by The Kentucky State Police and Adair Sheriff’s Office.

A Science Hill man was taken into custody by the Russell County Sheriff’s Office on several charges just before 3:30 this morning.

Brandon Steele Scott age 33, was taken into custody by Deputy Wine with the Sheriff’s Office on charges of Fleeing or Evading Police, 1^st Degree (Motor Vehicle), Wanton Endangerment – 1^st Degree (Police Officer), Criminal Mischief 3^rd Degree, Improper Registration Plate, Trafficking in Controlled Substance, 1^st Degree, (more than 2 grams of METH), Receiving Stolen Property (under $10,000), Possession Controlled Substance 1^st Offense (Heroin), Receiving Stolen Property (Under $10,000) and 2 Counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Meth).

April Lawson age 39, and Julian Rosa Guadlupe both of Russell Springs was arrested by officer Justice with the Russell Springs Police Department. Both were taken into custody after midnight last night, and charged with Assault 4^th Degree Domestic Violence (Minor Injury).

Christopher Belcher age 39, of Columbia was arrested by officer Burton with the Columbia Police Department just after midnight. Belcher was charged with Assault, 2^nd Degree and Tampering with Physical Evidence.

Local Corona Virus Update…

Adair County on Tuesday announced 7 new COVID19 cases to report for Adair County yesterday. We did not release anyone. We have 37 active cases with 36 in home isolation and 1 in an area hospital.

Russell County had NO new cases Monday. There have been 5 cases released from home isolation yesterday. We now have 20 cases which are all on self-isolation.

It was a short but productive meeting last night for the Russell County Fiscal Court. 

Wave news met with County Judge Gary Robertson following the meeting for details on what took place... 

Local Corona Virus Update…

Adair County had 2 new COVID19 cases to report Sunday. We have 30 Active cases with 29 in home isolation and 1 in an area hospital.

Russell County NO cases yesterday. Still 25 active cases on self-isolation.

Weekend Arrest…

A Columbia man was lodged this morning in the Russell County Detention Center on Contraband charges…

Brandon Burton age 30 of Columbia, was charged by officer Bunch with the Russell Springs Police Department with Promoting Contraband 2^nd Degree. Burton was lodged in the detention center just after 3 a.m. this morning.

The Russell County Schools have additional funding for school security... 

Superintendent Michael Ford tells WAVE news more details on the funding... 

Kentucky’s new executive order requires Kentuckians to wear face coverings under several circumstances for the next 30 days. The order will be evaluated during that time to determine any additional steps or extension.

The executive order states that face coverings will be required:

“While inside, or waiting in line to enter, any: retail establishment; grocery store; pharmacy; hair salon/barbershop; nail salon/spa; tattoo parlor; child care facility; restaurant or bar (when not seated and consuming food or beverage); health care setting, or; any other indoor public space in which it is difficult to maintain a physical distance of at least six feet from all individuals who are not members of that person’s household;

“While waiting for or riding on public transportation or paratransit, or while riding in a taxi, private car service, or ride-sharing vehicle, or driving any of the above while customers are present; or

“While in outdoor public spaces in which the person cannot maintain a physical distance of six feet from all individuals who are not members of the person’s household and is not otherwise covered by previously issued guidance.”

There are several exemptions to the order, including children who are 5 or younger and any person with a disability, or a physical or mental impairment, that prevents them from safely wearing a face covering.

The Russell Springs City Council held it's regular monthly meeting last night

Mayor Eddie Thomas spoke to WAVE NEWS about what took place at the meeting including special recognition to police chief Joe Michael Irvin who will be retiring from the department... 

A Nancy man is facing several charges after being arrested by State Trooper Begley last night in Russell County, just before 9:30. Anthony Corrado age 27, of Nancy was charged with Failure to Dim Headlights, Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense more or equal to 2 grams of (Meth), Trafficking in Marijuana (less than 8 oz) 1^st Offense, Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession, Possession of Marijuana and License to be in Possession. He was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.  

Sheriff Derek Polston reports that a search warrant was executed on Tuesday in the Eli Community of Russell County off Hwy 76 at 126 stanelle road. As his Department continues its Battle on the Drug Epidemic In Russell County. 3 individuals were charged with Trafficking in Methamphetamine and other Drug related charges all enhanced by a firearm. Confiscated during that search were Methamphetamine, Seven-thousand dollars in cash, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Arrested at the scene were: Angela Passmore age 38, Kenneth Dyer age 35,he was additionally charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and  Rikki Brassfield age 30, she was additionally charged with tampering with physical evidence. All were lodged in the Russell County Detention Center. Deputy Sheriff Kenny Perkins is the investigating officer and more arrest could be forthcoming. He was assisted at the scene by other members of the sheriffs office and Ky State Trooper Billy Begley.

Sheriff Polston reminds all Russell County Citizens that if you suspect illegal drug activity in your Neighborhood to contact the Russell County Sheriffs Office Drug/wanted persons tip line at 270-343-8116 all callers will remain anonymous.

Columbia City Council met last evening and Jim Liebe covered the meeting for the WAVE and files this report…

A Michigan woman was arrest last night just after 11, on assault charges.

Renee Turner age 33, of Howell Michigan, was taken into custody by officer Young. She was charged with Assault, 4^th Degree (Domestic Violence) Minor Injury and Alcohol Intoxication in a Public Place (1^st and 2^nd Offense).

Brittany Neal age 27, of Columbia, was arrested by Deputy Keith with the Adair County Sheriff’s Office just after 10 p.m..

Neal was charged with Menacing, Disorderly Conduct, 2^nd Degree, Public Intoxication-Controlled Substance (Excludes Alcohol) and Assault, 4^th Degree (Domestic Violence) Minor Injury.

Russell County Coroner Mark Coots tells Wave News that a young Jamestown man has died as a result of drowning Monday afternoon.

Tyler Grant age 17 of Jamestown, the son of Brian and Teresa Grant, was recovered from the lake just after 5. The original call went out to emergency officials around 4:15 p.m.

According to reports Grant was with family and friends and were swimming near the Clifty Creek Ramp when the drowning occurred. 

Superintendent Michael Ford spoke to Wave News Monday afternoon and told us that counselors will be available at the school for any students who need to talk to them. 

Russell County Sheriffs Department responded along with the KY State Police. The KDFWR was also dispatched as well as the Jamestown Fire Department dive team and the Russell County Rescue Squad.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 6, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Monday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continued efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

 “I hope everyone’s Fourth of July weekend was filled with safely celebrating the founding of our great nation,” the Governor said. “As we face the unprecedented challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic, it’s comforting to know Americans have faced great threats in the past and have passed the test of humanity. Now is our time to do the same.”

The Governor reminded everyone that his next press briefing will be held Thursday, July 9, at 4 p.m. EDT, not Tuesday, July 7, as previously was planned.

Case Information – Monday, July 6
As of 4 p.m. July 6, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 17,152 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 268 of which were newly reported Monday.

“While the day-to-day reported cases fluctuate somewhat, our numbers have been holding remarkably steady even as other states have experienced sharp increases,” the Governor said. “We can stay on this plateau and hopefully move to a steady decline in cases only if we follow the guidelines for social distancing, hand-washing, wearing cloth face masks and limiting our exposure to crowds. We also need to get tested regularly and to answer the call when contact tracers reach out with information.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported eight new deaths Monday, raising the total to 593 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Monday include two women, ages 100 and 103, from Fayette County; a 72-year-old man from Hopkins County; two women, ages 51 and 89, and a 90-year-old man from Jefferson County; an 88-year-old man from Nelson County; and a 96-year-old woman from Shelby County.

“Even knowing that our response in Kentucky is rightly being recognized nationally for keeping COVID-19 in check, we need to remember this is still a deadly virus,” the Governor said. “These eight Kentuckians were unique and loved individuals whose families and communities are hurting. Let’s honor them by recommitting ourselves to keeping one another safe.”

As of Monday, there have been at least 435,471 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. At least 4,785 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Case Information – Sunday, July 5
On Sunday, July 5, Kentucky health officials reported 280 new cases of the novel coronavirus.

There were no new deaths attributable to COVID-19 reported on July 5.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Case Information – Saturday, July 4
On Saturday, July 4, Kentucky health officials reported 255 new cases of the novel coronavirus.

There were no new deaths attributable to COVID-19 reported on July 4.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

Anti-Price Gouging Order
Vowing to protect Kentuckians from unfairly being overcharged for goods or services during the pandemic, Gov. Beshear again extended his executive order prohibiting price gouging. Anyone with information about unfair sales or billing practices is encouraged to contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection hotline at 888-432-9257 or fill out the complaint form online.

Last Week in Review
Click here for the last week’s updates, including those on COVID-19 case information, the extension to late August to apply for Pandemic EBT benefits, a three-month extension for unemployed, uninsured Kentuckians to apply for short-term assistance and the hiring of Ernst & Young to begin immediately processing outstanding unemployment claims that resulted from the global pandemic.

MONTHLY ACTIVITY REPORT
June 2020

Columbia, KY (July 6, 2020) During the month of June 2020, there were 16 traffic accidents investigated by the State Police working in the Post 15 area in the 11 counties of Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Green, Marion, Metcalfe, Monroe, Russell, Taylor and Washington.

There were six fatal collisions during the month of June in the Post 15 area.
Tina Stephens age 60 of Clay Co TN was killed on 06/03/2020 in Monroe Co KY.
Geraldine Turner age 57 of Green Co KY was killed on 06/05/2020 in Green Co KY.
Rose Grace, unk age of Marion Co KY was killed on 06/06/2020 in Marion Co KY.
Thomas Hunt, unk age of Taylor Co KY was killed on 06/07/2020 in Taylor Co KY.
Ashia L. Barrett age 20 of Taylor Co KY was killed on 06/12/2020 in Taylor Co KY.
Jessica L. Murphy age 26 of Taylor Co KY was killed on 06/12/2020 in Taylor Co KY.

This brings our yearly fatality count to 14 compared with 23 through this same period in 2019.
Statewide fatality count stands at 317 compared with 355 through this same period in 2019.

During the month of June 2020, there were 767 citations written, 184 courtesy notices written, 465 complaints answered, 132 motorists assisted, 49 criminal cases opened and 221 criminal arrests made.

On Friday, July 3, 2020 at 9:38pmCT, K-9 Deputy Josh Durbin was on patrol in the south end of the Adair County around Sparksville Community.  Durbin was running radar and initiated a traffic stop on a 2000 Chevrolet for excessive speeding. During a roadside investigation it was found that the operator, James Adcock, 47, of Columbia did not possess a valid KY Drivers Licence. It was also determined that Adcock had an outstanding warrant for his arrest from Adair Circuit Court.  After taking Adcock into custody, Deputy Durbin deployed his K-9 Nitro who located methamphetamine in the vehicle.  

Adcock was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st degree (Methamphetamine), Speeding 73 mph in 55mph zone, No Operators Licence, and No Insurance. He was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

The Adair County Sheriff's Office experienced a busy holiday weekend with nearly 100 calls for service responded to (including several critical incidents). Several arrests were made as well. See stories posted below for details.

Jamestown Fire Department was dispatched out around 8:30 Saturday morning to Valley view storage units on E. Cumberland Ave.

The Department  was dispatched to just off the Square to the report of the structure fire. First units On Scene found the building fully involved, and according to Fire Chief Jeff Landers, the building is a complete loss. Jamestown fire was assisted by the Russell Springs fire Department, Jamestown Police Department, Russell County sheriffs Department and Jamestown public works. Also the South Russell Fire Department was asked to respond for the report of a gas leak for Jamestown during this time. We would also like to thank the public who brought food and drinks to the scene. There were no injuries reported. Jamestown fire was on scene for about 4 1/2 hours.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. 

• Elisabeth Luttrell, 49, of Russell Springs - arrested early Sunday morning by RSPD Officer Justice for DUI (Aggravating Circumstance); Wanton Endangerment, 1st Degree; Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1st degree (Drug Unspecified); Possession of Prescription Controlled Substance Not in Proper Container; Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; No Registration Receipt; Failure to Produce Insurance Card; and Failure to Wear Seat belt.
• Cody Murray, 43, Jamestown - arrested late Saturday night for Failure to Operate a Boat at Idle Speed Harbor; Operating a Boat while Intoxicated; Assault, 3rd degree (of a Police Officer); and Disorderly Conduct, 2nd degree.
• Rocky Weddle, 49, Russell Springs - arrested Saturday evening by Russell Co. Deputy Sheriff Kenny Perkins for Driving on a DUI Suspended License, 2nd Offense; DUI, 3rd or more Offense; Failure to Register Transfer of Motor Vehicle; Failure to Wear Seat belt; and Failure of Non-owner Operator to Maintain Insurance.
• Michael Wade Passmore, 36, and Travis Passmore, 25, both of Dunnville - arrested on Saturday afternoon by KSP for 1st degree Wanton Endangerment.
• Byron Marcum, 37, Russell Springs was arrested by KSP on Saturday morning for Operating on a Suspended or Revoked License; No Registration Plates; No Registration Receipt; Failure to Register Transfer of Motor Vehicle; Failure to Wear Seat belt; Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance; 3 counts of Receiving Stolen Property; and 2 counts of being a Persistent Felony Offender.

Deaths: We are pleased to report no new deaths today. We have experienced a total of 27 deaths resulting in a 6.2% mortality rate among known cases.

Hospitalizations: We presently have 10 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 75 hospitalizations resulting in a 17.3% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 73% of ICU beds and 26% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 2 cases today from isolation (recovered). Released cases include: Pulaski: 2. In all, we have released 67.9% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 433 cases since the onset of the outbreak. This has resulted in the health department reaching out to over 2657 individuals during our contact tracing.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 112 active cases in our district across 9 of our 10 counties. Of those active cases, 23 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 17 today: Adair: 3; Casey: 6; Pulaski: 3; and, Russell: 5. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.03. This means our total case count is projected to double every 23.44 days. 

New cases include:

• Adair: A 21-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 76-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 72-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 40-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 61-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Casey: A 79-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic Casey: A 93-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 89-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 87-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 52-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 70-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 19-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 27-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 12-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 60-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 62-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 59-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic

This was a week of aggressive growth in our area for COVID-19. We had more new cases and currently have more active cases than at any point since the onset of the outbreak. For the week, our active cases jumped by 38 (from 74 to 112). This happened despite us releasing 37 cases as recovered since we added 75 new cases this week. 

While our present cumulative total cases are still only a fraction of our total population, the current growth rate of 1.03 is concerning. At a 1.03 growth rate, our total cumulative case count is projected to double about every 23 days. Fortunately, we had no new deaths this week and our hospitalization rate remains in a manageable region. However, with additional outbreaks occurring in Nursing Homes (Casey County is the latest Nursing Home Cluster), additional hospitalizations could soon occur.

We remind everyone that our best chance for slowing the spread is for everyone to wear a mask when out in public, to avoid crowds, to social distance (stay 6-feet from others), to wash their hands with soap and water often and thoroughly, to stay home if they have a fever or are coughing, to increase sanitation, and to avoid touching their faces.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 433 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 16,405 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across All 120 Kentucky Counties as of 07/04/20 (this includes 16,376 statewide plus 46 recently reported cases in Lake Cumberland not in the Governor’s/Department for Public Health’s daily report). 

Regardless of the confirmed case count for any Lake Cumberland County, we believe COVID-19 to be widespread. The LCDHD is working to identify and contact all those with whom any positive case may have come into close contact.

Deaths: We are pleased to report no new deaths today. We have experienced a total of 27 deaths resulting in a 6.5% mortality rate among known cases.

Hospitalizations: We presently have 11 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 75 hospitalizations resulting in an 18% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 75% of ICU beds and 26% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 0 cases today from isolation (recovered). In all, we have released 70.2% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 416 cases since the onset of the outbreak. This has resulted in the health department reaching out to over 2657 individuals during our contact tracing.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 97 active cases in our district across 9 of our 10 counties. Of those active cases, 23 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 11 today: Green: 3; Pulaski: 4; Russell: 2; Taylor: 1; and, Wayne: 1.

New cases include:

• Green: A 63-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 62-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 35-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 25-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 19-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 38-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic Pulaski: A 36-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 36-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 40-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 24-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: A 91-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic

We again see a significant rise in new and active cases. At this moment, we have more active cases in our district since the onset of the outbreak. The most common clusters now are emerging from long-term care facilities and out-of-state travel.
 

We remind everyone that our best chance for slowing the spread is:

• Wear a mask when out in public
• Avoid crowds
• Social distance (stay 6-feet from others)
• Wash hands with soap & water often (and thoroughly)
• Stay home if you have a fever or are coughing
• Increase sanitation
• Avoid touching your face

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 416 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 16,405 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across All 120 Kentucky Counties as of 07/03/20 (this includes 16,376 statewide plus 29 recently reported cases in Lake Cumberland not in the Governor’s Dept. for Public Health’s daily report). 

Regardless of the confirmed case count for any Lake Cumberland County, we believe COVID-19 to be widespread. The LCDHD is working to identify and contact all those with whom any positive case may have come into close contact.

Jennifer Melson, 44, of Columbia was arrested Friday night by Columbia police for Public Intoxication (excluding alcohol), Promoting Contraband, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st degree (Drug Unspecified), and Tampering with Physical Evidence. Melson was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

Early this (Saturday) morning just before 2:00amCT, the Columbia Police Department initiated a traffic stop in the area of Orvis Grider Road and Jamestown Street. After making contact with the operator, K-9 Unit "Annie" was utilized and alerted on the vehicle for possible narcotics. A search of the auto yielded findings of several pills as well as 5 grams of suspected methamphetamine and cash. 

Rodulfo Vasquez, 31, of Russell Springs was taken into custody early Friday morning by Deputy Corey Meyer for Reckless Driving, No Operators License, Operating a Motor Vehicle under Influence of Alcohol/Drugs 1^st Offense, Possession of an Open Alcoholic Beverage Container in Motor Vehicle and Resisting Arrest.

James Adcock, 48, of Columbia was taken into custody by Deputy Durbin with the Adair County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday night. Adcock was charged with Speeding 18 mph over Limit, No Operators-Moped License, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, (Methamphetamine), Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance, Criminal Mischief 3^rd Degree and Theft by Unlawful Taking (Under $500).

• Beginning July 7, 2020 Kentucky driver’s licenses, permits and IDs that expire on or after July 7, 2020 will no longer receive a 90-day renewal date extension and cardholders will be responsible for renewing their credential with their local circuit court clerk office in order for it to be considered valid. Cards with an expiration date between March 18 and July 6, 2020 are still under the March emergency order that automatically provides a 90-day extension to the card’s printed expiration date.
   
• During the period March 1, 2020 through September 30, 2020 any individual whose operator’s license, permit or identification card has expired, will expire, was lost or stolen may apply through a remote application process with the circuit court clerk in his/her county of residence based on each clerk’s preferred method (i.e. mail form, drop-off form). The applicant must not require any testing when requesting a card renewal or replacement. More information about the application process is available on the Administrative Office of the Courts website.

• The grace period for all vehicle and vessel registrations or disabled parking placards administered by county clerks or the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will continue with no penalties charged through close of business on October 6, 2020. If a vehicle or vessel owner with expired registration does not renew by this date, they will be subject to late fees.

1. CALL SPECIAL CALLED BOARD MEETING TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
3. SUPERINTENDENT EVALUATION
4. EXECUTIVE SESSION
5. ADJOURNMENT

Through the USDA and the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, a USDA Mixed Dairy Box with various products will be provided free to the public on Tuesday, July 7th. This service is provided free of charge for Adair County residents through a partnership with the Kentucky Dairy Council. The milk products can be picked up at Adair County Primary Center (ACPC), 158 Col. Casey Drive, Columbia, KY starting at 9:00amCT on Tuesday. This will be a drive-up service where patrons will remain in their car and be loaded by community and dairy industry volunteers. Citizens should enter the ACPC campus via Indian Drive off Greensburg Street. Social Distancing guidelines and PPE guidelines will be practiced to ensure the safety of the patrons and workers.

• Adair: 9-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: 38-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Adair: 15-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: 42-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: 16-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: 22-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 31-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 13-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 29-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 13-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: 61-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Russell: 61-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: 25-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 1, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Wednesday updated Kentuckians on the commonwealth’s continued fight against the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“Kentuckians have risen to the challenge as heroes in this test of a lifetime,” said Gov. Beshear. “You continue to put others first, even if it means a little inconvenience and discomfort. And as we’ve seen from other states experiencing spikes in cases right now, rising to the challenge is our only option. We simply cannot overwhelm our hospital system and risk the lives of our frontline health care professionals who have already sacrificed so much.”

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 15,842 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 220 of which were newly reported Wednesday.

“We’ve got to keep these case numbers under control,” said Gov. Beshear. “We’re doing a good job, but we’ve got to work even harder. We can’t let our guard down when an invisible enemy is still out there.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 7 new deaths Wednesday, raising the total to 572 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Wednesday include an 89-year-old woman from Fayette County; an 88-year-old man from Jackson County; a 63-year-old woman and 86- and 97-year-old men from Jefferson County; a 54-year-old man from Oldham County; and a 94-year-old woman from Shelby County.

“Each one of these folks was special. Each one of them won’t get to see their friends, their neighbors, their kids and grandkids anymore,” said Gov. Beshear. “We cannot let this become the new normal. I’m heartbroken for these families.”

As of Saturday, there have been at least 411,217 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. At least 4,052 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

For additional information, including up-to-date lists of positive cases and deaths, as well as breakdowns of coronavirus infections by county, race and ethnicity, click here.

On Monday, June 29, 2020 an Adair County man was arrested after a joint investigation by the Adair County Sheriff's Office and Probation and Parole.
 

Deaths: We are happy to report no new deaths today. We have experienced a total of 27 deaths resulting in a 7.2% mortality rate among known cases.

Hospitalizations: We presently have 6 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 70 hospitalizations resulting in an 18.7% hospitalization rate among known cases.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 9 cases today from isolation (recovered). Released cases include, Adair: 3; McCreary: 2; Pulaski: 3; and, Wayne: 1. In all, we have released 74.9% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 374 cases since the onset of the outbreak. This has resulted in the health department reaching out to over 2632 individuals during our contact tracing.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 67 active cases in our district across 9 of our 10 counties. Of those active cases, 12 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 7 today: Adair: 2; Casey: 1; Green: 1; Russell: 1; and, Taylor: 2.
 

New cases include:

• Adair: A 62-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 21-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 56-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic asymptomatic
• Green: A 64-year-old male who is self-isolated,
• Russell: A 65-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 85-year-old female who is hospitalized, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 33-year-old female who is hospitalized, asymptomatic

With all the recent new cases in Taylor County, the turn-out was large today for mass drive-through testing. There were 239 tests performed. We appreciate the partnership with Taylor Regional Hospital, Campbellsville-Taylor County EMS, Taylor County Emergency Management, Campbellsville-Taylor County Fire and Rescue, Taylor County Schools, Campbellsville Police, Taylor County Sheriff’s Office, Taylor County 911, the Mayor’s Office and the County Judge-Executive’s Office.

The Governor and the Commissioner of Public Health both reinforced the message today regarding how important it is for the public to wear a mask when out and about. Our best chance for slowing the spread is for everyone to wear a mask when out in public, to avoid crowds, to social distance (stay 6-feet from others), to wash their hands with soap and water often and thoroughly, to stay home if they have a fever or are coughing, to increase sanitation, and to avoid touching their faces.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 374 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 15,634 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across 119 Kentucky Counties as of 06/30/20 (this includes 15,624 statewide plus 10 recently reported cases in Lake Cumberland not in the Governor’s/Department for Public Health’s daily report).
 

Regardless of the confirmed case count for any Lake Cumberland County, we believe COVID-19 to be widespread. The LCDHD is working to identify and contact all those with whom any positive case may have come into close contact.

A Russell Springs woman was taken into custody last evening on Drug and other charges by the Russell County Sheriff’s Office.

Rebekah Devore, 37, was arrested by Deputy Corey Meyer at 10:30pmCT last night. Devore was charged with 2 Counts of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense more or equal to 2 grams, Drug Paraphernalia Buy/Possession, Illegal Possession of Legend Drug, Operating a Motor Vehicle under the Influence Alcohol/Drugs .08 2^nd Offense, Possession of Marijuana and 2 Counts of Persistent Felony Offender.