Students, teachers, parents, and school administrators across the Bluegrass have officially undertaken the 2020 school year's significant challenges.

We, members of the Kentucky General Assembly, continue to hear from constituents across the state who have expressed the concerns and frustrations with what 2020 has brought. None have been more prevalent than those related to our children's education. As we all continue to do the best we can in less than ideal circumstances, we want Kentucky to know that we hear your voices.

First, let us take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate everyone's work within the education system. Educators and others have had to adjust with each curveball this unprecedented year has thrown. 

With the arrival of COVID-19, students found their school year cut short in the spring. Throughout the following months, education professionals were tasked with the great responsibility of learning to live in a COVID-19 world. They deserve commendation for doing that. They sought guidance from medical professionals and asked for needed directives from the state. In late June, requested guidance was finally provided to them. School districts did a spectacular job of developing plans that prioritized what health professionals—such as those at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)—have argued is the best interest of our kids; safely returning them to school. 

As you may know, a "recommendation" from the Governor and potential "consequences," reported by the Kentucky Department of Education abruptly threw a wrench in districts' well-thought-out reopening plans. This came as a disappointment to many school districts where there was overwhelming support to return to some in-person learning.

Despite confidence in implementing CDC health guidelines and in-person or Non-Traditional Instruction (NTI) options provided to families, most Kentucky school districts were compelled to move forward with virtual learning only.

The Governor has stated, "We should not experiment with our kids." I agree and remain concerned about the hypothesis that NTI is in students' and families' best interests. I am troubled by some of the discoveries this experiment has brought so far.

In Kentucky's largest school district, Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS), the experiment with NTI began with about 4,500 students not making contact in week one. As the year ended, around 600 students had not been heard from since schools closed. Problems have persisted into the new school year. On August 26, JCPS experienced online disruptions. Some included profanity, smoking, and even pornographic images. To mitigate this problem, JCPS now has to transition to a new platform for NTI. As if the disruption of COVID-19 in the education of our kids is not enough, JCPS students had their first week cut short as the district dealt with the issue.

That is not the only issue districts are facing. The second-largest school district in the state, Fayette County Public Schools, experienced the effects of laptop shortages when it found itself 12,000 computers short of meeting demand. The fact of the matter is that without adequate access to NTI, a student cannot learn at all.

The technological divide is mostly present in more rural areas of our state. A lack of access to the internet has left some students behind. Districts are doing the best they can, but it is alarming to hear from struggling parents and guardians about how their child's only connection to their teacher is stored on a flash drive. However, on the bright side, we are seeing communities come together for our kids like never before. Churches and organizations like Kentucky Farm Bureau are providing Wi-Fi hotspots for families to access the internet. I want to give a special acknowledgment to a partnership in Russell County—a county I am blessed to represent—where the district has worked with Duo-Broadband to establish hotspots in that area. Duo Broadband has previously donated $10,000 to the Russell County School District for technology upgrades. There are numerous other examples across the state of private entities stepping up to the plate for Kentucky students. We are grateful for each of them.

To continue, it is important to recognize the struggles parents and guardians are facing. Without childcare, they are left to scramble to find care for their children so that they can work to put food on their table. Counterintuitive to our goal of protecting our most vulnerable, some are left no other option but to rely on grandparents or other elderly family members for childcare. Some are finding elderly guardians ill-prepared to provide students the educational support they need when completing class materials during the school day. Parents are struggling to make sure their children do not fall behind by trying to provide that support after they return from work.  I am concerned at the level of feedback from my constituents expressing the challenges they are facing.

Our response to this pandemic's saddest side-effect is the irreparable harm it is doing to our kids. The trajectory of their lives is being altered. When the CDC and the AAP encourage the safe return to school, it is not a recommendation they make lightly. Schools serve as a vital resource for our kids. Beyond education, they provide an emotional, social, and even physical haven.

One of the most challenging testimonies legislators have heard during the ongoing 2020 Interim Session was from childcare providers who shared that reported child abuse cases are down over 25%. Professionals will tell you that it is not because less abuse occurs, but because signs of it are not being identified by the teachers and school staff who are trained to recognize and report it.

Recognizing Kentucky's one size fits all school recommendations' unintended side effects is the first step in acknowledging there is a better approach. That approach was already well-vetted by school districts across the state and reviewed by the Kentucky Department of Education. It implemented the CDC's safety guidelines that required masks, hand sanitizer stations, traffic flows in the halls, and even bus seating. Many districts designed staggered school schedules that would have had some students on Mondays and Tuesday and others on Thursdays and Fridays. Wednesdays would be an NTI day and a day to sanitize the school. Plans also rightfully considered the concerns of families who may be vulnerable to COVID-19 by providing NTI options. If other states in our great nation can recognize the value of a more targeted approach to addressing this health crisis, and if European governments are fully embracing a return to school, so can Kentucky. 

While Kentucky has taken as a statewide approach to addressing COVID-19, states such as Colorado, Nevada, and even Illinois has found value in a more targeted approach. Colorado has trusted local municipalities to make decisions based on local data. Nevada has taken a county-by-county approach. Illinois developed a regional approach. This has enabled those states to have local responses based on local data.
 

Furthermore, European countries have correctly understood the negative impacts of students not being in school. Each has refused the blanketed approach taken in Kentucky and has chosen to rely on safety precautions, allowing students to receive the educational experience they deserve while dealing with outbreaks in a targeted manner. 

Unfortunately, Kentucky has the reluctance to acknowledge that Jefferson County and Cumberland County are not the same. When a single county in Kentucky accounts for 17% of the state's population, but 41% of COVID-19 cases, it is unjust to apply the same standard to students in counties with far fewer cases.

I hope that we can reassess our approach because an unwillingness to do so only harms our kids. This virus is with us, but we have to adapt and learn to live in a COVID-19 world. There is no logical basis to believe that the virus's spread will be any different on September 28 when the Governor said schools might reopen for in-person learning. Cases exist now, and they will likely exist then. Other states and other countries have recognized this reality. They have returned their kids to school with an abundance of caution. It is time Kentucky joins them. The world's future belongs to our kids, so we have a moral obligation to prepare them for it adequately. The Kentucky legislature still stands ready to work with officials to do what is best for Kentucky students.

On Monday afternoon, the Russell County Fiscal Court met and voted for condemnation of property for industrial development, which passed by resolution 20-08.

The property in questions was the former county airport which was used for a drag strip for many years. The property is located at 100 Airport Road in Jamestown. 
 

Deaths: We are sad to report 1 new death today from Casey. We have experienced a total of 62 deaths resulting in a 3.1% 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 19 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 185 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.3% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 67% of ICU beds and 26% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Not contagious) Cases: We released 61 cases today from isolation. Released cases include: Adair: 6; Clinton: 2; Cumberland: 3; Green: 17; McCreary: 6; Pulaski: 13; Russell: 8; Taylor: 5; and, Wayne: 1. In all, we have released 78.6% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,993 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 364 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 63 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 30 today: Adair: 3; Cumberland: 1; Green: 4; McCreary: 3; Pulaski: 5; Russell: 9; Taylor: 3; and, Wayne: 2. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.022. This means our total case count is projected to double every 31.73 days.

NEW CASES INCLUDE:

• Adair: An 81-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 48-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 22-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 28-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 63-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 65-year-old female who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Green: A 5-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 22-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• McCreary: A 71-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: An 87-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 9-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 30-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 27-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 23-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 73-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 52-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 34-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Russell: A 6-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 46-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 66-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 29-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 92-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Russell: A 75-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 73-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 20-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 30-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 35-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Wayne: An 80-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: A 52-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic

The death we report today is 67-year-old male from Casey who was not a nursing home resident.

We released more cases today that we added. We certainly hope that continues. Though, we did add 30 cases today. Our growth rate still projects our total cases to double in just over 31 days.

Please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding the touching of your face.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,993 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 48,462 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of today (this includes 48,396 statewide plus 66 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. (Aug. 31, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Monday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“I’m a big believer that our world can be much better than it is right now,” the Governor said. “That’s why I do this. I think my kids deserve a better Kentucky and a better world than they’re growing up in. We have an opportunity based on coming together to defeat the crisis of the moment, to build a better Kentucky that has fewer crises now and in the future.”

Overdose Awareness Day
Today, Gov. Beshear recognized International Overdose Awareness Day, a global event held on Aug. 31 each year to bring awareness to the overdose epidemic, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths and acknowledge the grief of family and friends left behind.

“Awareness is the key to survival during most medical emergencies; and that’s certainly true in the case of a drug overdose,” the Governor said. “If you find a loved one has overdosed, or even a complete stranger, knowing how to react could mean the difference between life and death.”

Those needing access to naloxone or more resources on how to respond to an overdose can find more information on the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy’s webpage.

The Governor also spoke about one overdose victim and his family’s struggle in the aftermath of his untimely death.

“As Attorney General I filed more lawsuits against opioid distributors and manufacturers than anyone else in the country. My friend Emily, who leads Fed Up in Kentucky, lost her son TJ right before he was going to deploy with our National Guard,” the Governor said. “There’s so much pain out there, and somebody may make a bad decision at the start, but by the time an overdose happens typically someone has been suffering from an addiction that we cannot treat as a bad decision. We have to treat it as the disease that it is, knowing that it is preventable, knowing that all of us can step in to either try to help an individual suffering from it, or hopefully be there with the training necessary to protect them in that worst case scenario.”

Gov. Beshear said he promised Emily he would continue to seek to provide resources to help people overcome addictions while also holding unscrupulous drug companies responsible.

Gov. Beshear noted that public health officials say that since the start of the pandemic in the U.S., they are seeing the largest number of overdose deaths since 2017.

Kentuckians struggling with substance use disorders, either themselves or within their families, can call 833-8KY-HELP (833-859-4357) to speak with a specialist about treatment options and available resources.

A live specialist will help locate everything from medication-assisted treatment to faith-based care, and walk through all the variables, such as location and cost. Callers can speak to a specialist from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (EDT), Monday through Friday. During non-business hours, callers may leave a message and the call center staff will get back in touch with them.

Gov. Beshear said the Governor’s Mansion will be lit up with purple lights this evening to honor the lives lost to overdose deaths.

‘The Fast 4 at 4’
Gov. Beshear on Monday highlighted a variety of issues of importance to Kentuckians and the commonwealth.
 

1. Today, the Governor reminded voters they now can go to www.GoVoteKy.com to request an absentee ballot for the Nov. 3 general election, if they are concerned about COVID-19 and voting. “Make sure your vote is counted,” Gov. Beshear said. “This is how you have a voice for this country, for this commonwealth, for your county, for your community.” Gov. Beshear encouraged all Kentuckians to make a plan to vote, either by mail, in person during early voting or in person on Election Day.
2. Gov. Beshear also reminded Kentuckians that the state issued a travel advisory in July that recommends people avoid visiting states with coronavirus case positivity rates of 15% or higher. Among the states currently exceeding that threshold, according to data from Johns Hopkins, are South Carolina, North Dakota, Iowa, Alabama and Nevada. Anyone returning to Kentucky after visiting these places is asked to self-quarantine for 14 days.
3. Gov. Beshear asked Kentuckians to take advantage of the free COVID-19 testing available at sites throughout the commonwealth. “While much of the country has fallen behind on testing, we have stayed ahead,” the Governor said. “We need your help to continue to do that. The resources are out there to make sure that you are safe and to make sure you’re keeping others safe.” For information on more than 200 testing sites, click here.
4. Jim Gray, Secretary of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), on Monday announced funding for access roads to spur development at industrial parks in Warren, Barren and Fulton counties.

“The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is proud to be part of Team Kentucky and to have a role in preparing the ground for new, job-creating industrial sites,” Secretary Gray said.

The projects are:

• In Warren County, KYTC is committing $500,000 from its Industrial Access Road program for a project by the Bowling Green Chamber of Commerce to extend Prosperity Drive in the Kentucky Transpark. The extended roadway will serve a new manufacturing plant being built by Crown Cork & Seal USA and open 296 additional, rail-served acres for development within the Transpark. Gov. Beshear helped to break ground for the Crown plant in February. The plant will make aluminum beverage cans.
• In Barren County, KYTC is committing $500,000 from the Industrial Access Road program to assist the Barren County Economic Authority in developing South Cooper Industrial Park along U.S. 68 in Glasgow.
• In Fulton County, KYTC has agreed to provide up to $146,500 to Fulton County Fiscal Court toward design and construction of a boulevard entrance to a new industrial park that is a joint venture of Fulton and Hickman counties. The site, which is in the City of Fulton, is contiguous to rail lines and less than a mile from the Interstate 69 corridor. It will be able to accommodate as many as seven small manufacturers or distribution companies, potentially providing hundreds of jobs.

For more information and to view the complete news release, click here.

Case Information – Monday, Aug. 31
As of 3:00pmCT on Monday, Aug. 31, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 48,396 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 381 of which were newly reported Monday. Forty-three of the newly reported cases were from children ages 18 and younger, of which two were children ages 5 and under. The youngest was a 1-year-old from Madison County.

“We always have lower numbers on Sundays and Mondays, due to lab closures over the weekend. But the White House report for this week still has 59 of our 120 counties in the red or yellow zone,” said Gov. Beshear. “We don’t want any of our counties in either. Let’s remember how serious this is and not act like everything is normal.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 3 new deaths Monday, raising the total to 933 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Monday include a 61-year-old man from Lincoln County; a 72-year-old woman from Martin County; and a 65-year-old man from Owen County.

“When we make bad decisions, most often somebody else pays for it, and can pay for it with their lives,” said Gov. Beshear.

As of Monday, there have been at least 877,443 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 4.42%. At least 10,375 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Information about COVID-19 and schools is also being made available. To view the reports, click here for K-12 and here for colleges and universities.

Case Information – Sunday, Aug. 30
Due to limited reporting on the weekends, some updated information is now available from Sunday, Aug. 30.

As of Sunday, there were 874,597 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate was at 4.54% and at least 10,355 Kentuckians had recovered from the virus.

For a detailed look at coronavirus case information from Sunday, Aug. 30, click here.

Kentucky Enhanced VINE
Today, Gov. Beshear, who formerly served as Kentucky’s attorney general, announced more than $500,000 in grant funding will build an expansion of services for crime victims in the commonwealth.

“We must continue to create more victim-centered services to help our fellow Kentuckians move forward after their darkest days,” said Gov. Beshear. “This system is another step in the right direction in creating more services focused on victims and survivors and connecting them with the support and information they deserve.”

He said the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet has awarded the Kentucky Department of Corrections $551,000 in federal Victims of Crime Act grant funding for significant enhancements to be made to the Victism Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) system, the state’s victim notification program.

“VINE offers timely and potentially life-saving notifications via email and phone about an offender in custody,” Gov. Beshear said. “With the new funding, VINE also will help victims locate services they might need, provide alerts via text message and create a unified database.”

Some of the key features of Kentucky Enhanced VINE include:

• Voice-driven phone system for victims to search via voice prompts for a faster and more intuitive means of service.
• A heightened emphasis on confidentiality and security with the option of creating a password protected user account and a “quick escape” feature to quickly exit the application.
• Users now can create a personalized watch list, allowing them to gain updated information for more than one offender at a time.
• Users can search for service providers by ZIP code or county as well as by type of service.

The new platform will take several months to complete, and Enhanced Vine is expected to launch September 2021.

For more information and to view the complete news release, click here

Child Care Guidelines
Eric Friedlander, Secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, spoke Monday about changes to the emergency regulations relating to child care, which aim to balance the safety and health of our children, caregivers and the public.

“We also recognize our children’s need to learn and socialize and the essential role of child care for working parents. It is good that everyone is now recognizing the importance of child care,” Secretary Friedlander said. “It has been a difficult time for child-care providers. CARES Act funding has resulted in over $67 million going to Kentucky child-care providers.”

In unveiling “Journey to a New Kentucky: Changes to Child-Care Facilities Guidance,” Secretary Friedlander said the department was offering a plan to address increasing capacity and the pre-existing shortages of registered and certified providers, while continuing to enforce child care standards.

Among the provisions in the new guidance:

• Help for parents to meet needs of nontraditional instruction (NTI) days by aiding background checks on providers and ensuring staffers are: masked; using proper hygiene; enforcing health checks and small groups; and have a plan is in place for when someone tests positive for COVID-19.
• Expanding the maximum number of allowed children to 15 for licensed child-care facilities.
• Certified homes, licensed infant and 1-year-old classrooms may return to typical group sizes.
• $2,500 startup incentive bonus through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act to encourage new providers.

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 summaries of the Governor’s news conferences at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

Deaths: We are happy to report no new deaths today. We have experienced a total of 61 deaths resulting in a 3.1% mortality rate among known cases.

Hospitalizations: We presently have 18 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 181 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.2% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 67% of ICU beds and 26% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Not contagious) Cases: We released 17 cases today from isolation. Released cases include: Adair: 3; Casey: 4; Clinton: 1; Cumberland: 3; McCreary: 1; Pulaski: 4; and, Taylor: 1. In all, we have released 76.7% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,963 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 396 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 81 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 35 today: Casey: 2; Cumberland: 1; Green: 3; McCreary: 6; Pulaski: 22; and, Russell: 1. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.022. This means our total case count is projected to double every 31.34 days.

The new cases include:

• Casey: A 54-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 41-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Cumberland: A 66-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 51-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 74-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 49-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 72-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 17-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 47-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• McCreary: A 43-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 87-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 64-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 42-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 32-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 26-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 20-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 54-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 61-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 83-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 55-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 66-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 86-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 79-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 92-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 89-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 85-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 69-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 76-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 64-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 91-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 99-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 60-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 87-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 18-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Russell: A 56-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 93-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic

If you carefully review the numbers above, Russell seems to be off by one. That is because a case was mis-assigned to Russell yesterday and was re-assigned appropriately today.

We are glad for no new deaths and for the decrease in hospitalizations. However, we did add 36 new cases today, several of which were from the nursing home outbreak in Pulaski.

Please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding the touching of your face.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,963 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 48,100 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of today (this includes 48,032 statewide plus 68 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.

For more statistics and local data go to LCDHD COVID-19 Information.

Mary Petrey age 18 of Columbia was arrest by Officer Dean with the Columbia Police Department just after 3 a.m. this morning.

Petrey was charged with Assault, 4^th Degree (Domestic Violence) Minor Injury.

Bo Stancil age 39, of Columbia was taken into custody by Deputy Keith with the Adair County Sheriff’s Office just before midnight, on charges of Possession of a Handgun by a Convicted Felon and Persistent Felony Offender 1.

Russell County 2 new cases Sunday, a 56 year old male and a 93 year old male. The 93 year old male is hospitalized. One of the cases Saturday was changed from Russell County to a neighboring county to correct the report. We now have 33 active cases which 30 are on self-isolation and 3 are hospitalized, 1 at UK, 1 at VA in Lexington and 1 at Somerset.

Adair County NO new cases of COVID19 to report Sunday. We released 3 yesterday. We have 17 active cases with 16 in home isolation. We do now have 1 in an area hospital.

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

“With today’s 462 new positive cases of COVID-19, this last week has been our single largest week ever for new cases of COVID: 4,503. It brings our total number of cases to date to 48,032,” the Governor said. “That means we have to do better. With this number of cases we see more people hospitalized, we see sadly more people being lost. So please wear your mask, please make good decisions. This is a time when this virus is spreading aggressively.”

Case Information
As of 3 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 30, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 48,032 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 462 of which were newly reported Sunday.

79 of the newly reported cases were from children age 18 and younger, of which 13 were children ages 5 and under. The youngest is two months old.

“We have almost 80 of today’s cases being kids 18 and under,” the Governor said. “That’s a lot of school-age kids, so please be careful.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 9 new deaths Sunday, raising the total to 930 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

“That’s nine more families who are suffering during this time,” said Gov. Beshear.

The deaths reported Sunday included an 82-year-old man from Lincoln County; a 66-year-old woman from Russell County; a 71-year-old man from Green County; an 80-year-old woman from Calloway County; an 83-year-old man from Harlan County, a 75-year-old man and an 87-year-old woman from Casey County; and an 82-year-old man and a 90-year-old woman from Fayette County.

“This being the single highest week for new cases: Do your best. We can’t be tired, we can’t give up,” Gov. Beshear said. “We have to bring it every week, because this virus is going to continue to take people we love. So, Mask Up Kentucky. Let’s beat COVID-19.”

Due to limited reporting on Sundays, some information is unavailable until Monday.

“What might be considered in Kentucky a ‘trifecta of holidays’ begins this coming Friday,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health. “Enjoy watching the fillies on Oaks Day this Friday. Watch the Kentucky Derby, the 146^th Run for the Roses, on Saturday. And, enjoy the entire Labor Day weekend. Just do it in ways that keep you and others safe. Stay Healthy at Home as much as you can.
 

When you go out in public, please practice social distancing, wear a mask whenever you are near others, and wash your hands often. If we all do these things, we have a much better chance for safer, healthier fall and winter holidays with family and friends. These changes to our routines make an immense difference and save lives. Together, Team Kentucky can get through this.”

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.

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

Deaths: We are sad to report 2 new deaths today (Saturday). We have experienced a total of 61 deaths resulting in a 3.2% 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 20 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 179 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.3% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 67% of ICU beds and 26% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Not contagious) Cases: We released 20 cases today from isolation. Released cases include: Adair: 5; Clinton: 3; Cumberland: 3; Pulaski: 3; and, Taylor: 6. In all, we have released 77.2% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,928 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 378 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 82 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 22 today: Casey: 2; Cumberland: 1; Green: 5; McCreary: 1; Pulaski: 7; Russell: 3; Taylor: 2; and, Wayne: 1. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.022. This means our total case count is projected to double every 32.47 days.

The new cases include:

• Casey: A 57-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 10-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Cumberland: A 58-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 28-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 3-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 48-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 22-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 36-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 21-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 22-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 74-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 31-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 18-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 31-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 22-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 25-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 5-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 63-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Russell: A 73-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 20-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 38-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Wayne: A 50-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic

The 2 deaths we report today are a 75-year-old male from Casey and 66-year-old female from Russell. Neither were nursing home residents. Our mortality rate at 3.16% remains high compared to the state (1.94%) and national (3.07%) averages.

In terms of new cases, this was the state’s second highest week, but it was our highest week. Last week we added 216 new cases, this week 267. As far as active cases, we, again, had our worst week. Last week we had 266 active cases, this week, 378. We also experienced the most deaths this week at 8. Last week at this time we had 24 hospitalized cases, this week 20. However, death accounts for the difference, and that is not how we like to see our hospitalization numbers go down.

Since the onset of the outbreak, we have had 4 people in their 50’s to die. We have had 30 individuals in their 50’s to be hospitalized; 9 in their 40’s; 11 in their 30’s; 5 in their 20’s; 1 in their teens, and 2 under 10 (the remaining 120 have been 60 or older). I point these numbers out to dispel the myth that only “old people” get sick.

We currently have 50 active cases that are either tied to the schools or are school age children. It is of great concern how much returning to in-person instruction could impact the spread of COVID-19 in our communities.

Please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding the touching of your face.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,928 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 47,635 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of today (this includes 47,577 statewide plus 58 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 4 new deaths today (Friday). We have experienced a total of 59 deaths resulting in a 3.1% 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 23 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 178 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.3% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 66% of ICU beds and 27% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Not contagious) Cases: We released 21 cases today from isolation. Released cases include: Clinton: 3; Green: 2; McCreary: 1; Pulaski: 8; Russell: 2; Taylor: 4; and, Wayne: 1. In all, we have released 77.1% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,906 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 378 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 81 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 32 today: Adair: 2; Casey: 3; Clinton: 3; Green: 5; McCreary: 6; Pulaski: 8; and, Taylor: 5. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.023. This means our total case count is projected to double every 29.9 days.

The new cases include:

• Adair: A 33-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 6-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 45-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Casey: A 51-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 47-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 35-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 8-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 74-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 27-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 44-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 44-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 38-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 15-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 5-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 73-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 32-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• McCreary: A 52-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 58-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 44-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 82-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 64-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 24-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 16-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 59-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 35-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 57-year-old male who is hospitalized, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 28-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 49-year-old male who is hospitalized, awaiting info
• Taylor: A 50-year-old female who is released, 8/21/20
• Taylor: A 18-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic

If you look at the above numbers closely, you’ll notice the table is off one for Russell and Pulaski. This is because one existing case originally assigned to Russell ended up being a Pulaski case.

Unfortunately, we have to report 4 deaths today: an 87-year-old female nursing home resident from Casey; a 77-year-old female nursing home resident from Green; a 71-year-old male nursing home resident from Green; and, an 80-year-old female nursing home resident from Pulaski. Our mortality rate at 3.10% of known cases is well above the state’s mortality rate of 1.95% and slightly above the nation’s at 3.07%.

Our total number of active cases grew by 7 today to 378. Our hospitalizations grew by 1 to 23. Please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding the touching of your face.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,906 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 46,827 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of today (this includes 46,757 statewide plus 70 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. (Aug. 29, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Saturday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“Unfortunately, today, I’m reporting the fourth-highest number of positives for COVID-19 that we’ve reported since our first case on March 6,” said Gov. Beshear. “Thankfully, our positivity rate is still below five at 4.59%.”

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 47,577 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 825 of which were newly reported Saturday. There were 145 newly reported cases of children age 18 and younger, with 15 being five years old or younger. Two among those age 5 and under were just 8 months old.

The Governor implored Kentuckians to “please do your part, live for your fellow human being and understand that we are all connected and that your decisions truly matter.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 3 new deaths Saturday, all of whom were from Lincoln County. The total of Kentuckians now lost to the virus is 921.

“That’s one county grieving three losses of its own. That’s three more families who are suffering during this time,” said Gov. Beshear.

The deaths of the Lincoln Countians reported Saturday include an 86-year-old woman and 81-and 94-year-old men.

Even though it’s not for a few more days, “now is the time to consider how you will celebrate Oaks, Derby and Labor Day in a way that allows you to share time with others while respecting the required masking and social distancing protocols,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health.

“As you may recall, as the number of new cases was leveling off months ago, Memorial Day and the Fourth of July resulted in celebrations and mingling. A noticeable spike in the number of positive COVID-19 cases followed. Then, the mask mandate went into effect and Kentuckians took extra care in social distancing and avoiding visits to other states known as ‘hot spots.’ This successfully plateaued our new weekly cases,” Dr. Stack said.

He cautioned, “If the running of the Oaks, the Kentucky Derby and Labor Day activities reflect other summer holidays, though, cases will spike again and Kentucky will have a setback to the progress we have made by working together.

Please, let’s show we can learn from the other holidays. Let’s not slip and lose progress against our fight against the coronavirus.”

As of Saturday, at least 871,811 tests had been administered. The COVID-19 testing positive rate, based on a seven-day rolling average, taking into account total positive tests reported by laboratories divided by total tests reported by labs, stood at 4.59%. The number of Kentuckians who have recovered stood at 10,328.

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.

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.

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

“We still have a whole lot of cases in Kentucky which means a number of people get sick and we lose a number of people, too,” said Gov. Beshear. “The good news is our positivity rate continues to decline. If we keep wearing these masks and we keep doing the work, we can get this to a manageable level to get our kids back in school and get back to more of our old lives.”

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Friday, Aug. 28, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 46,757 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 792 of which were newly reported Friday. One hundred and fourteen of the newly reported cases were from children ages 18 and younger, of which 27 were children ages 5 and under. The youngest was a 1-month-old from Green County.

“We’ve got to come together to defeat this virus,” said Gov. Beshear. “Make sure that you take a little time to take care of yourself and your family so when we have to go through some of these tough things or make tough decisions, we can react like the great people that we are.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 8 new deaths Friday, raising the total to 918 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Friday include a 69-year-old woman from Barren County; a 94-year-old woman from Carroll County; an 85-year-old woman and an 86-year-old man from Christian County; a 78-year-old woman from Scott County; a 58-year-old woman from Taylor County; a 73-year-old man from Union County; and a 92-year-old man from Warren County.

“Again, it’s been a hard month. It’s going to probably be an even harder September,” said Gov. Beshear. “Make sure that you’re praying for these families.”

As of Friday, there have been at least 860,738 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 4.50%. At least 10,266 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Information about COVID-19 and schools is also being made available. To view the reports, click here for K-12 and here for colleges and universities.

Week in Review
To read more about this week’s updates, including those on requesting an absentee ballot, completing the 2020 census, the state’s travel advisory, testing sites, evictions, fall sports, price-gouging, the Eastern Kentucky Veterans Center, #MaskUpKY, PPE donations, information about COVID-19 cases in schools, expanded internet service, the P-EBT program, commutations, the Team Kentucky Fund, CDC testing guidelines, the Auburn wastewater treatment plant expansion, three new economic development projects and Rocky Adkins’ father’s recovery from COVID-19, visit governor.ky.gov/news.

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 summaries of the Governor’s news conferences at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 28, 2020) – In the midst of a global health pandemic caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19), as a Democratic Governor and a Republican Secretary of State we have proven that we can put partisanship aside to make our elections safer for our people.

We know that working across the aisle to reach a bipartisan agreement, regardless of where you live from Washington, D.C. to Frankfort, Kentucky, during any year, certainly an election year, is all too rare.

We don’t always agree, but we have no disagreement when it comes to protecting the health of Kentuckians during this pandemic, while making sure they are able to exercise their patriotic duty to vote.

On Aug. 14, we announced an agreement to give Kentuckians more options to vote safely leading up to and on Election Day, Nov. 3, 2020.

We put politics aside – there was no political “horse-trading.” We knew we had to get this right for the people of Kentucky.

This was not the first time we’ve worked together for Kentucky’s benefit. Earlier this year when the coronavirus was intensifying in the commonwealth, we jointly delayed party primaries and then quickly reached an agreement to allow those concerned about their health to vote absentee.

The result of our agreement, we had near record turnout. We had the commonwealth’s highest primary turnout in 12 years – with both Democrats and Republicans taking advantage of voting options that helped to keep them safe.

We believe the primary was largely successful because we worked together in a bipartisan fashion. That bipartisanship not only led to a better product, with concerns on both sides accommodated, but it also showed all voters that our new election rules were fair, legitimate and credible.

The plan was not perfect, but we learned from that experience. 

Our plan for the general election keeps the best of what worked in the June primary, especially giving voters options to safely cast their votes, and it makes improvements where necessary, including pushing for more in-person voting locations and faster election results.

During this pandemic, Kentuckians will have more than just 12 hours to vote at one polling place on Election Day. 

Our plan includes: 
 

Expanded absentee voting – Kentuckians who are concerned about in-person voting due to the coronavirus can request an absentee ballot online at www.GoVoteKy.com or through other methods, all of which require voter identity verification. Voters can return their ballots by mail, or put them in drop boxes we’re distributing, a first for our state. 

Early in-person voting – In order to reduce lines and further social distancing, we’re offering three weeks of early in-person voting, including Saturdays, also a first for our state.

Election Day voting – While not every precinct will be open on Election Day, because, for example, some of our regular voting locations are nursing homes, Kentuckians are stepping up to serve as poll workers so that we can open as many locations as possible. Our plan requires every county to have at least one vote center, where anyone from that county can go vote, regardless of his or her precinct – another reform for our state.

Finally, Kentuckians who are unable to get a photo ID to vote due to the pandemic – whether because of risk of exposure to COVID-19, or because their clerk’s office was closed – can sign a document explaining this concern, present non-photo ID and cast their ballots.

We know that there is still a lot of work ahead, including educating Kentuckians on their options and working with local election officials on the implementation.

With all the options available for Kentuckians to vote safely, we are confident that we will see high voter turnout in November, just as we saw in our primary.

In June, we created a national model both for how to enable people to vote safely and for how leaders should work together.

To forge the framework for a safe, successful and historic general election, we have already overcome the largest impediment – partisanship.

– Governor Andy Beshear and Secretary of State Michael Adams

There will be a Special Called Russell County Fiscal Court Meeting on Monday, August 31, 2020 at 10:00amCT.

AGENDA:

• Executive Session for possible litigation - Per KRS 61.810 if needed OR Open Discussion 
• Action Taken as a Result of Executive Session or Open Discussion
• Adjourn

Deaths: We are sad to report 1 new death today from Taylor. We have experienced a total of 55 deaths resulting in a 2.9% 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 22 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 175 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.3% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 64% of ICU beds and 27% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Not contagious) Cases: We released 24 cases today from isolation. Released cases include: Casey: 4; Cumberland: 2; Green: 6; Pulaski: 9; Russell: 2; and, Taylor: 1. In all, we have released 77.3% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,874 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 371 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 81 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 50 today: Adair: 2; Casey: 2; Clinton: 3; Cumberland: 2; Green: 12; McCreary: 4; Pulaski: 16; Russell: 2; Taylor: 2; and, Wayne: 5. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.024. This means our total case count is projected to double every 28.7 days.

NEW CASES: 

• Adair: A 11-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 71-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 42-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 58-year-old female who is hospitalized, asymptomatic
• Clinton: A 16-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 13-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Clinton: A 55-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Cumberland: A 30-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 27-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 44-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 18-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 37-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 8 months-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 72-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 50-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 13-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 34-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 37-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 30-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 43-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 5 months-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 73-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 33-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 39-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 18-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 60-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 29-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 50-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 87-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 92-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 82-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 73-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 67-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 89-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 65-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 71-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 84-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 18-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 41-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 13-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 88-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 52-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Russell: A 70-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 81-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 35-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: A 30-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: A 43-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Wayne: A 5-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Wayne: A 58-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: A 20-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic

The death we reported today was a 58-year-old female from Taylor County. Our mortality rate is now at 2.93% of known cases.

We added 50 new cases today. We are on track for this to be our largest week of growth since the onset of the outbreak. Currently, our new case rate of 10.17 per 10,00 is considerably higher than the state growth rate at 6.62 per 10,000. Our total cases are projected to double at just over every 28.7 days. We currently have 22 cases in the hospital, which is 5 less than yesterday.

Currently, most of our new cases are tied back to long-term care and residential facilities, followed by businesses. Places of worship and schools are now tied for third place. Thirty-eight of our active cases are school age (18 or younger). Imagine how much spread could have occurred in the schools if they had been meeting face-to-face and/or these children were not in isolation. Then imagine all those exposed children bringing the virus home, and then the family members taking it to work and church.

Please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding the touching of your face.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,874 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 46,074 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of today (this includes 45,978 statewide plus 96 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.

Russell County reported 2 new cases on Thursday. A 52 year old female and a 70 year old male who are both on self-isolation. We had 2 cases released from isolation. We have 32 active cases: 29 are on self-isolation and 3 are hospitalized (2 in Somerset and 1 in Lexington at UK).

Adair County also reported 2 new COVID19 cases yesterday. 0 Released. We have 23 active cases, all on home isolation. We have no one in the hospital at this time.

An Adair County man was arrested on Drug and other charges early this morning.
 

Rayne Jones, 19, of Columbia, KY was arrested around 2:30 this morning. He was charged with Fleeing or Evading Police, 1^st Degree (on foot), Public Intoxication-Controlled Substance (Excludes Alcohol), Disorderly Conduct 2^nd Degree, Wanton Endagerment-1^st Offense Police Officer, Resisting Arrest, Assault 3^rd-Peace Officer-Communicable Bodily Fluid and Criminal Mischief 3^rd Degree. He was lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

An Albany woman was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center yesterday just after 12 noon on several charges including Assault.
 

Bethany Harding, 28, was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs .08 1^st Offense, Failure of Non-Owner Operator to Maintain Required Insurance 1^st Offense, Improper Registration Plate, Assault 3^rd Degree – Police Officer or Probation Officer, Disorderly Conduct, 2^nd Degree and a Probation Violation for Felony Offense.

Russell County Sheriff Derek Polston reports the arrest of 2 individuals both on felony warrants and one being wanted for 2 years out of the State of Wisconsin.
 

The Sheriffs Office, along with help from Kentucky State Trooper Billy Begley and the Russell County Attorneys Office, located Josh Tampbell, 38, formerly from the state of Wisconsin, on local Felony Warrants for Theft by Unlawful taking over $500, Criminal Mischief 1st and Criminal trespassing 3rd degree.

Also located was Kerstin Ohrmundt from Wisconsin who had been on the run for 2 years in a felony probation violation.
 

Both were arrested and lodged in the Russell County Jail.

• Casey 5.1%
• Clinton 5.2%
• Cumberland 4.6% (the lowest in the district)
• Green 4.9%
• McCreary 7.4%  (the highest in the district)
• Pulaski 7.0%
• Taylor 5.5%
• Wayne 6.4%

The Russell County Clerks office will be closing at noon on Friday, August 28, 2020 for system upgrading. They are sorry for any inconvenience.

An Adair County Grand Jury has returned numerous indictments (listed below), OR click on link to read entire indictments.... https://ridingthewave.com/assets/files/ADAIR-INDICTMENTS-AUG-27-2020.pdf

1. Christopher Belcher, 40, Columbia, KY - Assault 1st degree and Tampering with Physical Evidence.
2. Donald Gene Brockman, 52, Mannsville, KY  - Trafficking in Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Drug Parphernalia, Persistent Felony Offender 1st & 2nd degree, Possession of a Handgun by a Convicted Felon, Disregarding a Stop Sign, and Public Intoxication.
3. Andrea Gaskin, 39, Jamestown, KY - Trafficking in Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Parpharnalia, Persistent Felony Offender, Public Intoxication, and Endangering the Welfare of a Minor.
4. Bo James Stancill, 39, Campbellsville, KY - Possession of a Handgun by a Convicted Felon and Persistent Felony Offender.
5. Christpher Dickson, 21, Columbia, KY - Possession of Methamphetamine 3rd or Subsequent Offense and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
6. Joanna Logsdon, 31, Columbia, KY - Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of a Controlled Substance 2nd degree (Buprenorphine).
7. James Drew Griffith,  34, Columbia, KY - Possession of Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Public Intoxication.
8. Lewis Joe Burton, 57, Danville, KY - Possession of Methamphetamine 3rd or Subsequent Offense, DUI, and Operating Vehicle on a Suspended/Revoked License.
9. Joseph Lynn, 52, Liberty, KY - Possession of a Handgun by a Convicted Felon, Operating on a Suspended/Revoked Operators License, Failure to Maintain Insurance, No Registration Receipt, and No Registration Plates.
10. Patrick James Rowe, 34, Jamestown, KY - Theft of Mail Matter, and Persisent Felony Offender.
11. Christopher M. Corbin, 36, Columbia, KY - Possession of Meth, Possession of a Controlled Substance 2nd degree (Buprenorphine), Prescription Controlled Substance Not in Proper Container, and DUI 2nd Offense.
12. Jonathan Dickson, 24, Columbia, KY - Possession of Methamphetamine 3rd or Subsequent Offense, Possession of a Handgun by a Convicted Felon, Tampering with Physical Evidence, Persistent Felony Offender, Rear License Not Illuminated, Operating on a Suspended/Revoked License, Resisting Arrest, and DUI.
13. Derek Otterson, 31, Columbia, KY - Possession of Methamphetamine and Marijuana, Possession of a Handgun by a Convicted Felon, 3 counts of Wanton Endangerment 2nd degree, Resisting Arrest, Terroristic Threatening 3rd degree, Disorderly Conduct, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Menacing.
14. Adrian Stotts, 38, Columbia, KY - Receiving Stolen Property over $500 and Persistent Felony Offender.

INDICTMENTS ARE LEGAL ACCUSATIONS AND DO NOT DETERMINE GUILT OR INNOCENCE.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 27, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Thursday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“I know, at this point in our battle against COVID, the weeks can be really long. What I’d ask is, keep it up. Keep wearing the masks,” said Gov. Beshear. “All the experts say it’s working, not just in general, they say it’s working here in Kentucky.”

‘Fast 4 at 4’
Gov. Beshear began today’s briefing highlighting a variety of issues of importance to Kentuckians and the commonwealth.

1. Today, Gov. Beshear announced three new economic development projects – in 3 different regions of the commonwealth – that will bring 258 jobs and $32.65 million in investment to Kentucky.
   
   “Even with COVID-19 and significant short-term unemployment, we are seeing long-term investments in the commonwealth that are going to create jobs long after this pandemic is over,” said Gov. Beshear. “We have a chance to emerge stronger and to make sure when we move out of COVID, we don’t crawl, we don’t walk – we run.”
    
   • Clermont Distilling Co. plans to construct a new distillery in Bullitt County. Phase I of the project will comprise a $13.4 million investment creating 22 Kentucky-resident, full-time jobs, paying an average $56 per hour, including benefits. These jobs include management and operations positions.
     
     The distillery will be located right off Interstate Highway 65 at the Clermont/Bardstown exit, on 15 acres alongside Kentucky Highway 245 leading to Bardstown.
     
     “This is great news for Kentucky’s signature bourbon industry,” said Gov. Beshear. “I want to thank Lee and his team for recognizing that paying good wages strengthens families and communities.”
     
     Company leaders expect to begin construction on the distillery in spring 2021 with the potential for significant future expansion.
     
     “As a fifth generation Kentuckian, our family has deep ties to the bourbon industry through various bloodlines. This project brings us great excitement to have our new distillery joining the iconic Kentucky Bourbon industry. The land chosen for Clermont Distillery had been held by the same family for over 90 years and became available for purchase at the most perfect time,” said Clermont Distilling founder Lee Wilburn.
      
   • Separately, a $7 million investment by HVAC Distributing LLC in Graves County will increase the company’s presence in the region with a new warehousing location in the Hickory Industrial Park and the creation of 175 full-time jobs.
     
     “We welcome this new location as the latest in a key industry in Kentucky that has become more important than ever in this pandemic,” said Gov. Beshear.
     
     The distributor of heating, ventilation and air conditioning products plans to expand to a 100,000-square-foot spec building to meet growing demand and reduce shipping time and costs. HVAC Distributing handles products for well-known brands such as MRCOOL and GeoCool.
     
     “We are truly thankful for this opportunity that allows us to adapt quickly to growing market demand across our industry,” said Jason Ingram, managing member of HVAC Distributing.
     
     The company is among the more than 540 logistics and distribution facilities located throughout the commonwealth, which employ nearly 75,000 people.
      
   • The Governor also announced Danieli Corp. plans to open a 61-job facility in Ashland in one of the buildings on the former AK Steel campus.
     
     “This area has been hit hard. We’ve seen closings of a number of plants. This project, actually in one of those former plants, is an exciting new opportunity that shows that there is not just hope, but there is a future reality with new and good jobs,” said Gov. Beshear.
     
     Danieli, an Italian-owned company employing more than 10,000 people globally, will refurbish, remanufacture and repair steel mill equipment in Ashland.
     
     The new operation is scheduled to open in late 2021.
      
2. Gov. Beshear announced today the City of Auburn and Logan County Fiscal Court officially broke ground on the Auburn wastewater treatment plant expansion.
   
   The upgrades will better serve Champion Petfoods USA Inc. and make Auburn more attractive to future investors.
   
   Using a $1.5 million Community Development Block Grant from the Department for Local Government, the expansion will provide the first updates to the plant in roughly 30 years. It will encourage greater economic growth, residential expansion and industry development in the area.
   
   “There is no more important a time to encourage economic development projects across the commonwealth,” said Gov. Beshear. “As we work to rebuild our economy while continuing to keep Kentuckians safe from COVID-19, we must continue to invest in our infrastructure to make our communities even more attractive to future investors.”
    
3. Today, the Governor reminded voters they now can go to www.GoVoteKy.com to request an absentee ballot for the Nov. 3 general election, if they are concerned about COVID-19 and voting. He encouraged all Kentuckians to make a plan to vote, either by-mail, in-person during early voting or in-person on Election Day.
   
   “Please vote. You can request an absentee ballot right now. If you’re nervous about COVID, if you live with somebody like I do who has a pre-existing condition, if you’re around people who are susceptible, go to govoteky.com and request one,” said Gov. Beshear. “If you believe you haven’t been heard, your opportunity is voting.”
    
4. Finally, Gov. Beshear asked Kentuckians to take advantage of the free COVID-19 testing available at sites throughout the commonwealth.
   
   “We have to keep it up on testing,” said Gov. Beshear. “It’s so important. If we want to do the things we want to do, we have to prevent COVID’s spread. Not all the testing spots we have are being filled.”
   
   For information on more than 200 testing sites, click here.

Rocky Adkins’ Father Back Home after Battling COVID-19
Today, Rocky Adkins, senior advisor to Gov. Beshear and a former state representative, shared that his father, Jess Adkins, 84, is home after contracting COVID-19 and spending two weeks in the hospital and one week at Cardinal Hill for rehabilitation.

“I want to take this opportunity to thank all of the front line workers in Kentucky. I’m happy to report that yesterday, my dad was able to return home,” said Adkins. “My son Brandon, who tested positive also, is doing great and has not had any serious side effects. I’m proud of both of these fellows. They remind us we need to check on our neighbors. I’m thoroughly convinced that if not for my son watching out for him, my dad probably would have lost his life.”

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Thursday, Aug. 27, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 45,978 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 775 of which were newly reported Thursday. 130 of the newly reported cases were from children ages 18 and younger, of which 14 were children ages 5 and under. The youngest was a 2 month old from Jefferson County.

“We’re tracking again about what we’ve seen the last several weeks,” said Gov. Beshear. “Did you ever think we’d be to the point where 775 wouldn’t sound abnormal? It means that we do have to push to have fewer cases, but it does show that we are doing a lot of testing.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 8 new deaths Thursday, raising the total to 910 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Thursday include an 84-year-old man from Allen County; an 84-year-old man from Barren County; an 80-year-old woman from Green County; a 70-year-old man from Hardin County; a 90-year-old man from Lewis County; a 74-year-old man from Madison County; an 89-year-old woman from McCracken County; and a 75-year-old man from Warren County.

“Let’s make sure that we light our homes up green, we ring our bells. There’s an amazing woman who works in the Secretary of State’s office that walks in the rotunda every day, rings her bell 120 times, one for each county, making sure that she is paying homage to the loss that is out there everywhere,” said Gov. Beshear. “Let’s make sure we continue to do the same.”

Rocky Adkins added, “Even as my dad returned home yesterday, there are 910 people who aren’t returning home.”

As of Thursday, there have been at least 848,937 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 4.80%. At least 9,731 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

“There are still some out there claiming kids don’t get the virus or transmit the virus. Here’s what I’d tell them: there are 130 kids 18 and under on today’s report,” the Governor added.

“That’s a trend we have to pay attention to. Today we’re reporting 11 high school-aged kids in Warren County. 11 kids in one county alone. I hope that contact tracing is going fast, because that school system is open.”

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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Information about COVID-19 and schools is also being made available. To view the reports, click here for K-12 and here for colleges and universities.

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 summaries of the Governor’s news conferences at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

• Adair: A 58-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 55-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 70-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 24-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 75-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 34-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 79-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 30-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 75-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 47-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 6-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 33-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 1 month-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Green: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 71-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 50-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 101-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 80-year-old female who is deceased, expired
• Green: A 86-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 82-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 79-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 77-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 85-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 91-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 96-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 80-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 49-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 44-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 90-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 70-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 38-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 48-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• McCreary: A 65-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 44-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 29-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 65-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 22-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 31-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 80-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• McCreary: A 69-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 66-year-old female who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 21-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 20-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 19-year-old female who is released, 8/23/20
• Pulaski: A 64-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 24-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 55-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 49-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 89-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 75-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 24-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 7 months-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 71-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 40-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 63-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Russell: A 35-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: An 11-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 9-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 59-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 2-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 34-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 36-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: An 8-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 52-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 68-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 56-year-old female who is hospitalized, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 69-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 25-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 42-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 67-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 17-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 58-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Wayne: A 28-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: A 26-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Wayne: A 61-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Wayne: A 38-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic

Russell County we had 11 new cases Wednesday. We had 3 cases released. We now have 32 active cases which 30 are on self-isolation and 2 are hospitalized in Somerset.

Adair County had 4 new COVID19 cases to report yesterday. No releases. We have 21 active cases all in home isolation. We have no one in the hospital at this time.

A Russell Springs woman was arrested early this morning on drug and other charges…

Latisha Bunch age 31 was taken into custody by Trooper Begley with the Kentucky State Police just before 1:30 this morning on the charges of Trafficking in Legends Drugs 1^st Offense, Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession, PMT Unlicensed Operator to Operate Motor Vehicle and Public Intoxication – Controlled Substance (Excludes Alcohol) she was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Brandon Bratcher age 26 of Monticello, was also taken into custody by Trooper Begley on Drug and other charges before 1:30 this morning. Bratcher was charged with Operating on a Suspended Operators License, Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession and Serving Parole Violation Warrant. He was also lodged into the Russell County Detention Center.

Chandall Webb age 30, of Somerset was taken into custody by the Russell County Sheriff’s Office just after 10 last night on several charges. Deputy Perkins arrested Webb for Operating Motor Vehicle Under Influence of Alcohol/Drugs .08 – 1^st Offense, No Operators-Moped License, Failure to Wear Seat Belts, Possession of Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Meth) Possession of Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense Heroin, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Drug Unspecified) Possession of Controlled Substance, 2^nd Degree – Drug Unspecified.  

Gov. Andy Beshear on Wednesday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“We want to try and emerge from COVID as whole as we can be, and it’s going to be hard,” the Governor said. “We have got to work as hard as we can every day to be as close to whole as we can.”

‘Fast 4 at 4’
Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman began today’s briefing highlighting a variety of issues of importance to Kentuckians and the commonwealth.

• The Lieutenant Governor provided an update Wednesday on the Team Kentucky Fund.

“Because of this partnership, not only are we able to immediately help Kentuckians, we are also able to help them in the long run,” Lt. Gov. Coleman said. “I want to thank Community Action for your help and for everyone who has donated $5, $10, $15 to help their fellow Kentuckians.”

To date, $3,545,027 has been donated to the Team Kentucky Fund. Lt. Gov. Coleman noted that through the state’s partnership with Community Action Kentucky, for every $1 given to the Team Kentucky Fund, $1.70 goes to Kentuckians in need.

Team Kentucky Fund top categories: electric: $101,952.49; food: $123,209.34; mortgage: $102,287.30; rent: $410,290.74; for a grand total: $789,658.77.

Lt. Gov. Coleman said 2,421 vouchers had been issued that aided 1,032 households.

Those wishing to support the Team Kentucky Fund can do so at donate.ky.gov. To apply for assistance, go to teamkyfund.ky.gov.

• Today, the Lieutenant Governor encouraged all Kentuckians to make a plan to vote in the upcoming general election. Thanks to a bipartisan agreement between Gov. Beshear and Secretary of State Michael Adams, Kentuckians can go to www.GoVoteKy.com right now to request an absentee ballot for the Nov. 3 general election, if they are concerned about COVID-19 and voting.

• “The sooner you request your ballot, the better,” Lt. Gov. Coleman said. “I would recommend as soon as you get your ballot, you fill it out and send it back in and that will help fight any worry that you may have leading into this election.”

• Lt. Gov. Coleman again spoke about the importance of every Kentuckian taking time to fill out a U.S. Census form, stressing the once-per-decade count’s link to funding for schools and child welfare.

• “Many schools across Kentucky have started back this week in some form or fashion and it is really important to remember that as we fill out the census, we are provided funding based on those census numbers. One of the areas that we support with that is public education,” she said. “Please keep in mind that for those that believe we need more and better resources in our schools, make sure that you fill out the census and move us up the line.”

• Today, Lt. Gov. Coleman thanked educators, students and staffers across the commonwealth for making nontraditional-instruction (NTI) days work as most districts begin the school year with remote learning.

• “I know so many teachers across Kentucky have missed being able to hug those kids and welcome them into their classroom,” she said. “I hope everyone got off to a great first day or first week of school and continues to mask up Kentucky.” 
  ?

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Aug. 26, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 45,230 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 696 of which were newly reported Wednesday. One hundred and fourteen of the newly reported cases were from children ages 18 and younger, of which 22 were children ages 5 and under. The youngest was a 1-month-old from Fayette County.

“We hope people out there are making good decisions, especially those that are in charge of our youth. I know this is a difficult time, but we need to be wise,” the Governor said. “We need to make sure that we make decisions based on science and on what’s in the best interest of those we serve and not just based on complaints.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 7 new deaths Wednesday, raising the total to 902 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Wednesday include an 89-year-old woman from Boone County; an 81-year-old woman from Graves County; a  79-year-old woman from Greenup County; two men, ages 50 and 89, from Jefferson County; a 91-year-old woman from Oldham County; and an 83-year-old man from Whitley County.

“The virus doesn’t care that we get tired or frustrated, it doesn’t care if we want to go back to our lives, it is just as aggressive, it is just as deadly and it is killing people we know,” Gov. Beshear said. “So it’s up to us to be strong and resilient enough.”

As of Wednesday, there have been at least 839,454 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 4.64%. At least 9,691 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Information about COVID-19 and schools is also being made available. To view the reports, click here for K-12 and here for colleges and universities.

CDC Testing Guidelines
Today, Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, offered analysis and insight on new coronavirus testing guidelines issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“I would encourage you to still follow our guidance here in Kentucky,” Dr. Stack said.

“I want to be a little more explicit about the CDC’s sudden change saying those who have had direct and high-risk exposure to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 should not get tested,” said Gov. Beshear. “That’s reckless. It contradicts everything that we have learned about this virus. It’s inexplicable. I mean come on, it’s common sense. Let’s make sure we’re doing the right thing in Kentucky.”

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Dr. Stack also said the administration is now sharing the weekly reports for the White House Coronavirus Task Force, which can be found on the main Team Kentucky COVID-19 webpage.

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 summaries of the Governor’s news conferences at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

On Monday, August 24, 2020 at 7:20pmCT while investigating a complaint, Adair County Chief Deputy Justin Cross made contact with Justice Stamper, age 21, of Monticello, KY on Liberty Rd.  

During the investigation it was found that Stamper was in possession of methamphetamine. He was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail on charges of possession of a controlled substance 1st degree (methamphetamine) and possession of drug paraphernalia.
 

Russell Springs (August 26, 2020) On Tuesday August 25th, at approximately 3: 21 PM Troopers from Kentucky State Police Post 15 responded to a two vehicle fatal collision that occurred at the junction of US 127 South and West Drive in the city limits of Russell Springs. Preliminary investigations indicate that 58 year old Connie Lawson of Windsor, KY was operating a 2003 Chevy Cavalier on West Drive when she then made a left hand turn on to US 127 pulling into the path of a southbound 2014 Jeep Cherokee being operated by 41 year old Larimie Richardson of Russell Springs, KY.

Lawson and a passenger in her vehicle, 76 year old Marie Lawson of Windsor, KY were transported to the Russell County Hospital then airlifted to the University of Kentucky Hospital. A passenger, Garnetta Campbell, age 56 of Windsor, KY was transported to Russell County Hospital where she was pronounced deceased by the Russell County Coroner. All occupants in the Lawson vehicle were not wearing a seat belt. Richardson was wearing a seat belt and not injured.

This collision remains under investigation by Trooper Jason Warinner.

The Adair Fiscal Court met on Tuesday afternoon. Jim Leib has details....

Deaths: We are happy to report no new deaths today. We have experienced a total of 53 deaths resulting in a 3% mortality rate among known cases.

Hospitalizations: We presently have 18 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 163 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.3% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 64% of ICU beds and 26% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Not contagious) Cases: We released 14 cases today from isolation. Released cases include: Adair: 1; Cumberland: 1; Green: 3; Pulaski: 5; Taylor: 1; and, Wayne: 3. In all, we have released 80.2% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,748 cases since the onset of the outbreak. This has resulted in us reaching out to over 10,096 contacts (a rough average of 6 contacts per case).

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 293 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 53 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 37 today: Adair: 2; Casey: 3; Clinton: 2; Cumberland: 3; Green: 5; McCreary: 3; Pulaski: 12; Russell: 4; and, Taylor: 3. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.021. This means our total case count is projected to double every 32.66 days.

NEW CASES:

• Adair: A 46-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 30-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 33-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 44-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 64-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 71-year-old female who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 68-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Cumberland: A 33-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 10-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 37-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 61-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 2-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 62-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 69-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 25-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 46-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 73-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 59-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
• Pulaski: A 57-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 56-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 73-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 63-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 50-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 54-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 63-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 68-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 69-year-old female who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 72-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 70-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 72-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 63-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 18-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 56-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 4 months-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 51-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 23-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 20-year-old female who is released, asymptomatic

Our growth rate is picking up again. We added 23 more new cases today than we released cases that are no longer contagious. Our total cumulative cases are now projected to double every 33 days. Considering that 3.03% of our cases die and 9.32% of our cases end up hospitalized, this is a frightening scenario. Lake Cumberland’s mortality rate, by the way, is between the nation’s mortality rate (3.09%) and the state’s (3.03%); and, our hospitalization rate is consistent with the state average of 9.98%.

As if those numbers are not concerning enough, we are yet to feel the community impacts of schools reopening to in-person instruction. Noting that several area schools are using the 7-day average incidence rate per 100,000 as part of their metrics to determine if schools should be open to in-person instruction, we have no counties currently in the “green – on track” category; only one in the “yellow – community spread” category (Wayne); seven in the “orange – accelerated spread” category (Adair, Case, Clinton, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, and Taylor); and, two in the “red – critical” category (Cumberland and Green).

Please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding the touching of your face.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,748 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 44,642 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of today (this includes 44,568 statewide plus 74 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.

For more statistics and local data go to LCDHD COVID-19 Information.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 25, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Tuesday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

‘Fast 4 at 4’
Gov. Beshear is beginning his briefings with the “Fast 4 at 4,” which will highlight a variety of issues of importance to Kentuckians and the commonwealth.

• Today, the Governor reminded voters they now can go to www.GoVoteKy.com to request an absentee ballot for the Nov. 3 general election, if they are concerned about COVID-19 and voting. 

“If we believe we are patriots and doing our patriotic duty, certainly we ought to be voting,” the Governor said.
 

• Gov. Beshear encouraged Kentuckians to spread the word about the most important action we all can take to fight the coronavirus, by using the social media hashtag #MaskUpKY to model good behavior.

“The federal government says it’s working. State government says it’s working. All the public health officials all the way up and down say it’s working,” Gov. Beshear said. “So it’s easy: Just wear a mask. If you refuse to, just know that you could be spreading it to someone else. Regardless of how you feel about it, everyone else is willing to go through the discomfort. Why won’t you?”

• The Governor spoke about efforts to ensure Kentucky continues to have enough personal protective equipment (PPE) for our health care workers and others.

“When someone walks into a COVID wing in a hospital, look how much they have on,” the Governor said. “That ought to tell us when there’s a large crowd, that means there’s likely COVID-19 there. Why would we walk into it when we see what it takes to be safe?”

In particular, Gov. Beshear highlighted some recent donations, which are key to keeping Kentuckians safe. He said uniform and equipment company Galls, which has a Kentucky headquarters in Lexington, has donated 37,500 isolation gowns with a value of $130,000. Michigan-based Dow Chemical Co., meanwhile, has donated 2,000 isolation gowns valued at $8,000.

• Information about COVID-19 cases related to schools is being collected and is posted online.

“This is a highly contagious, aggressively spreading virus. We need to be very very careful, and this is one of the reasons I still don’t think it’s safe for schools to open before Sept. 28,” Gov. Beshear said. “It’s just very important when it’s our kids’ health that’s on the line that we have this at a place that where if we’re going to put 15, 20 or 30 kids potentially in a room and expose one adult to all of them in some way or another that we want to make sure we have this under the best control that we can.”

To view the reports, click here for K-12 and here for colleges and universities.

‘Last Mile’ Internet Service
Today, Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman announced a plan to allocate $8 million to provide “Last Mile” internet service to all Kentucky students from kindergarten through 12^th grade.

“COVID-19 has not only created new and unique challenges we must confront, it has brought to surface issues that have been plaguing our communities for generations. These underlying issues disproportionately affect communities of color and Kentuckians who live in poverty,” the Lieutenant Governor said. “One of these issues is lack of access to high-speed internet.”

Lt. Gov. Coleman noted that as schools have transitioned to using more nontraditional-instruction (NTI) days, it has broadened the educational gap for many communities. She said before the pandemic, approximately 90% of Kentucky’s K-12 students had internet access. That has grown to 95% over the past five months.

“We have to do better for the remaining 5% of students who do not have internet access in their homes,” Lt. Gov. Coleman said.

The Lieutenant Governor said the $8 million in federal Cornavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding will help reduce the monthly cost for low-income parents to pay for internet access for their K-12 child. A request for proposalse is being sent out with a goal by Sept. 15 of identifying providers that can supply high-speed internet service for all Kentucky K-12 students in low-income homes at no more than $10 per month for the next two to three school years.

Students currently without internet access from low-income homes will be eligible to have the full $10-per-month cost paid through the next school year. Students with internet access from low-income homes will be eligible to have nearly all of the monthly cost paid through the federal Lifeline program for the next two or three school years.

The “Last Mile” internet service includes wireless options like hotspots connected to a student’s cellphone, satellites and fixed wireless capabilities. It also includes wired options like traditional services from a cable, telephone or utility company.

Details will be posted to the Kentucky Department of Education website early next week.

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 44,568 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 688 of which were newly reported Tuesday. 96 of the newly reported cases were from children ages 18 and younger, of which 12 were children ages 5 and under. The youngest were two 8-month-olds.

“This continues to grow the percentage of kids testing positive, and we know not as many kids are being tested. But with people going back to sports, go get your kid tested,” the Governor said. “Don’t show up to a big group activity if they haven’t been tested in the last couple of weeks. Please make sure they get tested.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 10 new deaths Tuesday, raising the total to 895 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Tuesday include an 81-year-old man from Bell County; a 59-year-old man from Daviess County; an 89-year-old man from Jefferson County; three women, ages 80, 84 and 85, from Lewis County; an 87-year-old woman from Logan County; an 84-year-old man and a 92-year-old woman from Scott County; and a 79-year-old man from Webster County.

“When you’ve got a loved one that’s just in the hospital, just in the hospital with COVID-19, you are scared to death. When they go to the ICU, you almost lose hope. And when they are on the ventilator, you are thinking and making decisions that no one should have to,” the Governor said. “So let’s make sure that we don’t partake in actions that would result in any family being in this situation.”

As of Tuesday, there have been at least 831,302 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.07%. At least 9,594 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Pandemic Benefits
Eric Friedlander, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, spoke Tuesday about the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) program.

Since late May, Kentucky families with students who normally receive free or reduced-cost meals at school have been eligible for financial assistance to replace those meals through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) P-EBT program, part of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

“About 173,000 students in Kentucky’s public and private schools have been approved for these benefits,” Secretary Friedlander said. “They’ve received a preloaded P-EBT card, and cardholders have been able to shop for food at local groceries, Amazon.com and Walmart.com.”

However, Secretary Friedlander said more than 115,000 eligible Kentucky households have not applied for the P-EBT benefits they deserve.

Secretary Friedlander said the deadline to apply for the P-EBT program is Monday, Aug. 31, benefind.ky.gov.

“There is no cost to the recipient, and families who receive P-EBT benefits will not have to pay back the benefits,” Secretary Friedlander said. “These benefits are not taxable.”

Commutations
On Tuesday, Gov. Beshear and J. Michael Brown, secretary of the Governor’s executive cabinet, once again announced the commutation of sentences for hundreds of medically vulnerable inmates and inmates who are nearing the end of their sentence in an effort to reduce the chances of spreading the coronavirus.

Secretary Brown said all of those receiving a commutation had been screened to ensure they had not been convicted of violent crimes or sex offenses.

The Governor noted that this is the latest round of commutations aimed at protecting inmates and staffers. Three previous rounds of commutations by Gov. Beshear covered 1,235 inmates, under the same criteria announced today. As of July 6, 2020, the total number of inmates released was 1,171.

“I believe the last round of commutations was fairly successful at getting people back in society and making sure they are healthy, and we are looking for the same here,” Gov. Beshear said. “I wish each of those individuals a better life moving forward, one that is constructive, one that they can find purpose in, whether that be faith, family or a good job. Let’s help make sure we can work with these individuals and give second chances.”

Secretary Brown said the latest commutations followed the same guidelines as the last.

“Today’s signed executive order has 646 individuals receiving commutation from the Governor,” Secretary Brown said.

He noted that 121 of the commutations are for inmates who are medically vulnerable, according to guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and with less than five years left to serve of their sentences. Another 525 are inmates who have less than six months left to serve.

“The Governor’s actions today are taken to ensure that all Kentuckians, including those behind bars and the hardworking staff of corrections officers and deputy jailers, are given a chance to be healthy and safe in this fight against COVID-19,” Secretary Brown said.

“On Aug. 26, 2019, the Department of Corrections had 24,200 inmates. Today, we have 19,689,” said Secretary Brown. “That’s a reduction of 4,511 in our prison system. That’s good for everyone in the commonwealth.”

Evictions
On Monday, Gov. Beshear announced new rules to provide protections and clarity surrounding evictions during the coronavirus crisis. Landlords now must give tenants 30 days’ notice of an intent to evict for nonpayment of rent and work to come to an agreement during that time.

At the same time, Gov. Beshear said his administration is dedicating $15 million of federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act money to create a Healthy at Home Eviction Relief Fund that will provide relief to eligible landlords.

Read the Governor’s full executive order.

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.

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FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 24, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Monday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“Let’s start where we need to start – by remembering that we’re going to get through this and we’re going to get through it together,” the Governor said. “We need to make sure we’re not at a point in time, kind of like right at the beginning of the summer, where we let our guard down and we just get tired of doing what it takes, we want to go back to our normal life and this virus ultimately spikes.”

‘The Fast 4 at 4’
Gov. Beshear on Monday introduced “The Fast 4 at 4,” which will highlight a variety of issues of importance to Kentuckians and the commonwealth.

On Monday, he reminded voters they can now go to www.GoVoteKy.com to request an absentee ballot for the Nov. 3 general election, if they are concerned about COVID-19 and voting.

“Voting is the bedrock principle of this democracy,” said Gov. Beshear. “The way that you are heard is to make sure you vote, and there are going to be more ways to vote now than ever before.”

The Governor asked all Kentuckians to remember to fill out the U.S. Census forms, which in addition to being mandated by the U.S. Constitution is crucial to states for funding.

He also reminded Kentuckians that the state issued a travel advisory in July that recommends people avoid visiting states with coronavirus case positivity rates of 15% or higher. Among the states currently exceeding that threshold, according to data from Johns Hopkins, are Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Nevada and Idaho. Anyone returning to Kentucky after visiting these places is asked to self-quarantine for 14 days.

Finally, Gov. Beshear asked Kentuckians to take advantage of the free COVID-19 testing available at sites throughout the commonwealth.

“There are testing options all over Kentucky,” the Governor said, “and there are options close to you. If you are going to engage in new activities or haven’t been tested in a while, please get tested.”

For information on more than 200 testing sites, click here.

Case Information – Monday, Aug. 24
As of 3:00pmCT on Monday, Aug. 24, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 43,899 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 373 of which were newly reported Monday. 68 of the newly reported cases were from children ages 18 and younger, of which 14 were children ages 5 and under. The youngest was only 7 months old.

“The normal beginning of a school year has us all feeling the same things: We want to get over this, we want to get our kids out of the house. And I, at least, am seeing a change that goes beyond the ‘When to return to school?’ debate,” said Gov. Beshear. “We’re seeing more people trying to get out of quarantine when the health department has recommended it. Those feelings are natural but they’re harmful. This is a war. Whether we win or lose depends on the number of battles that we win. Let’s pick it up because lives depend on it.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 4 new deaths Monday, raising the total to 885 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Monday include a 74-year-old man from Harlan County; an 82-year-old man and a 94-year-old woman from Jefferson County; and a 71-year-old woman from Marion County.

“We’ve been able to push our mortality rate almost a percentage point lower than the national average,” said Gov. Beshear. “But we had more deaths announced last week than in any week where we’ve been battling this virus.”

As of Monday, there have been at least 822,904 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 4.77%. At least 9,544 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Case Information – Sunday, Aug. 23
Due to limited reporting on the weekends, some updated information is now available from Sunday, Aug. 23.

As of Sunday, there were 821,828 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate was at 4.76% and at least 9,524 Kentuckians had recovered from the virus.

Evictions
Gov. Beshear on Monday issued a new executive order to provide protections and clarity on the issues surrounding evictions during the coronavirus crisis. The Governor suspended evictions as the pandemic took hold. Gov. Beshear said the new executive order protects tenants and provides relief for eligible landlords.

“As this battle has taken many months, we now face three major concerns: one, wanting to make sure that people aren’t out on the street; two, wanting to make sure that these landlords aren’t bankrupted or aren’t being treated unfairly; and three, making sure that as people come out of this that they don’t have so much debt from their housing situation that they can’t ever dig out,” the Governor said. “We want a fair system that tries to address all three of these.”

Under the new order, landlords must give tenants 30 days’ notice of an intent to evict for nonpayment of rent. During that time, the landlord and tenant must meet and confer on a possible agreement. In addition, no penalties, late fees or interest can be charged related to nonpayment of rent from March 6 through the end of the year.

At the same time, Gov. Beshear said his administration is dedicating $15 million of federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act money to create a Healthy at Home Eviction Relief Fund.

The fund will reimburse eligible landlords for missed rent payments and pay some advance rent to keep tenants in their homes. Kentuckians will be able to submit applications Sept. 9. More information about eligibility and how to apply will be forthcoming.

“Kentuckians cannot be Healthy at Home without a home,” said Gov. Beshear. “We want to help get people in a place where they’re not only still in their homes, but they’re not going to owe five or six months of rent when they come out of this.”

The Governor also pointed to other programs helping Kentuckians pay rent, including the Team Kentucky Fund, the Louisville/Jefferson County Eviction Prevention COVID-19 Relief Fund and the Kentucky Housing Corporation Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program, which is awaiting funding through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Kentuckians seeking legal assistance can contact the Kentucky COVID-19 Legal Helpline or call toll-free: 833-540-0342. The service is sponsored by Kentucky’s Access to Justice Commission and the four Kentucky civil legal aid programs, AppalReD Legal Aid, Kentucky Legal Aid, Legal Aid of the Bluegrass and Legal Aid Society.

Lawyers who want to volunteer to provide direct legal assistance to Kentuckians in need during the pandemic can visit Together Lawyers Can.

Fall Sports Update
Gov. Beshear on Monday said the decision to allow fall sports to resume in the commonwealth comes with a heavy burden of responsibility from school and athletic officials entrusted with keeping student-athletes and others safe.

Last week, the Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) voted 16-2 to allow practices to begin today for the fall sports of cross county, field hockey, football, soccer and volleyball. Regular season games will begin Sept. 7, with football starting Sept. 11.

“Let me start by saying we’re not going to overturn that decision, and it’s not because I think it’s a good decision or a wise decision,” the Governor said. “But if we’re going to defeat this virus, we need people other than me all over Kentucky taking responsibility to make good and wise decisions.”

The Governor highlighted recent reports about athletes facing cardiac problems after COVID-19 infections. Dr. Curt Daniels, a cardiologist who is the director of the adolescent and adult congenital heart disease program and a professor of clinical internal medicine in pediatrics at Ohio State University and Nationwide Children’s Hospital, reported a study that found 10-13% of athletes with coronavirus had developed mild cases of myocarditis, which is inflammation of heart muscle.

Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, reinforced the Governor’s message about sports and provided an update Monday about COVID-19 infections in young people.

“We’ve hit a new plateau, but if we take off from this level, it gets out of control much more quickly,” said Dr. Stack. “I hope that in Kentucky we can be more successful with youth sports than other places, but the outlook is not good. There’s a lot we don’t know about this disease. We don’t know some of the more silent but really serious harms that this disease causes.”

Price-Gouging Update
For a third time, Gov. Beshear signed an executive order prohibiting price gouging, extending consumer protections outlined in previous orders. This order will remain in effect for the duration of the state of emergency.

“The order protects Kentuckians from those who would take advantage of the pandemic by charging inflated prices for goods – goods like hand sanitizer, soap, cleaners and disinfectants,” said La Tasha Buckner, the Governor’s chief of staff and general counsel.

Eastern Kentucky Veterans Center
Today, Gov. Beshear said nine veterans and one staff member at Eastern Kentucky Veterans Center (EKVC) in Hazard have tested positive.

The Governor said the cases were confined to one hallway unit and the veterans’ cases were traced to one transport aide, who has left the hospital and is recovering at home.

Out of an abundance of caution, all veterans who have tested positive have been sent to Appalachian Regional Healthcare. The hospital has agreed to keep the veterans until either a negative test or 14 days have passed. EKVC is testing all veterans in that unit today, and the rest of the veterans in the facility tomorrow and Wednesday.

Some of the steps being taken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 include: putting up a barrier between the two hall ways; consistent staffing; deep/terminal cleaning of the rooms; ongoing audits and re-training on all infection control procedures and personal protective equipment usage; cancellation of all non-essential appointments; continued testing and working closely with both the local health department and the Department for Public Health.

Remembrance
Gov. Beshear on Monday spoke about the loss of lifelong Carter County resident Rob Perry, who died last week at age 56 of COVID-19.

Chris Perry, Rob’s brother, is a state park manager and shared his brother’s story, stating “these past four weeks have been the worst of my life, not being by his side and not having the ability to say a proper goodbye.”

Chris said his brother was a devoted father, husband, son and brother, as well as a preacher dedicated to his community. He leaves behind his wife, Tawana, children, Tyler and Destiny, and his 80-year-old mother, Sonja.

Rob Perry’s family is asking that everyone honor his life by wearing a mask and maintaining social distance.

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 summaries of the Governor’s news conferences at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

Hayden Vanarsdale,18, of Columbia was arrested Sunday afternoon at 12:30 p.m. by officer Burton with the Columbia Police Department. Vanarsdale was charged with Possession of Marijuana, Possession of a Controlled Substance 3^rd Degree – Drug Unspecified, Terrorist Threatening, 3^rd Degree and Public Intoxication-Controlled Substance (Excludes Alcohol).

Lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

Adair County had 3 new cases to report Sunday with 4 cases being released. We have 16 active cases in Adair County with all 16 in home-isolation.

Russell County reported no new cases on Sunday, 1 case has been released from isolation. We now have 19 active cases in Russell County with 17 on self-isolation and 2 hospitalized in Somerset.

• Before festivities begin, plan a way to safely get home at the end of the night;
• If impaired, use a ride-booking company or taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation to get home safely;
• If you see an impaired driver, safely pull over and contact law enforcement. You may dial the KSP toll-free line directly at 1-800-222-5555 or call 911.
• If you know people who are about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get them safely to where they are going.
• Wear a seat belt! It is not only the law, it is the best defense against an impaired driver. Buckling up helps prevent injury and death if involved in a crash.

“We want all Kentuckians to enjoy the upcoming Labor Day holiday,” said Siwula. “All we ask is that you make smart choices and celebrate responsibly.”

The Adair County School System kicks off the new school year virtually today! 
 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 23, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Sunday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“We remain in a plateau with our number of new cases, which is positive, but we have to see those numbers steadily decline,” Gov. Beshear said. “All of your sacrifices are working, and we must all continue to be patient and do our part to drive those numbers down.”

Case Information
As of 2:00pmCT on Sunday, Aug. 23, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 43,529 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 467 of which were newly reported Sunday. Seventy-nine of the newly reported cases were from children ages 18 and younger, of which 15 were children ages 5 and under. The youngest was 3 days old.

“We are seeing a steady number of coronavirus cases among the young in Kentucky, and make no mistake: Youth is not a guarantee of a good outcome against this virus,” the Governor said.

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 9 new deaths Sunday, raising the total to 881 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

“That’s nine more families that are suffering during this time,” said Gov. Beshear.

The deaths reported Sunday included a 63-year-old man from Johnson County; a 63-year-old man from Shelby County; two men from Lewis County, ages 73 and 78; a 72-year-old man from Knox County; a 77-year-old woman from Oldham County; and an 88-year-old woman from Scott County. Green County lost two residents, a 90-year-old woman and a 91-year-old man.

Due to limited reporting on Sundays, some data is unavailable until Monday.

“The mask mandate, group restriction to 10 or less and other steps implemented in July have made a positive impact,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health. “Based on the number of new cases, Kentucky concludes this week at the end of a new and elevated four-week plateau.”

He noted, “While this is good news, we remain in a difficult  place and Kentucky could quickly begin a rapid escalation. 

“These are difficult times without simple solutions,” continued Dr. Stack. “Through their actions, local leaders have an obligation to keep the virus under control to reduce the risk of medical harm to their students, staff, and larger communities.

“Please, socially distance greater than six feet. Wear a mask at all times when in public and around others. Wash your hands often. Check for signs of infection and get tested if ill. Cooperate with contact tracing if you are called. If we do these things, we can contain the coronavirus and get back to more of the activities we miss,” urged Dr. Stack.

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.

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.

Deaths: We are sad to report 2 new deaths today. We have experienced a total of 53 deaths resulting in a 3.2% 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 20 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 158 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.5% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 66% of ICU beds and 27% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Not contagious) Cases: We released 8 cases today from isolation. Released cases include: Adair: 1; Casey: 1; Cumberland: 1; Green: 2; McCreary: -1; Taylor: 2; and, Wayne: 2. In all, we have released 80.8% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,661 cases since the onset of the outbreak. This has resulted in us reaching out to over 9,632 contacts (a rough average of 6 contacts per case).

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 266 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 67 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 40 today: Adair: 1; Casey: 5; Cumberland: 1; Green: 2; Pulaski: 24; Russell: 1; Taylor: 4; and, Wayne: 2. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.02. This means our total case count is projected to double every 34.76 days.
 

The new cases include:

Adair: A 57-year-old female who is released, 5/10/20
Casey: A 31-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Casey: A 29-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Casey: A 48-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Casey: A 55-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Casey: A 45-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Cumberland: A 28-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Green: A 90-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
Green: A 78-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
Pulaski: A 16-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Pulaski: A 17-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info

Pulaski: A 82-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 88-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 59-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 80-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 63-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 90-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 58-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 74-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 71-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 81-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 70-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 77-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 60-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 76-year-old female who is who is self-isolated, awaiting info

Pulaski: A 90-year-old male who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 68-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 80-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 70-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 76-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 84-year-old female who is self-isolated, awaiting info
Pulaski: A 63-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Pulaski: A 37-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Russell: A 76-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Taylor: A 10-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Taylor: A 7-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
Taylor: A 64-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Taylor: A 24-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic

Wayne: A 59-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
Wayne: A 20-year-old female who is released, 8/07/20

If you look closely at the numbers, you will see McCreary’s released cases as -1. We listed someone in error as released yesterday that we had to add back today. So, we released 9 today, and added one back, for a net released today of 8.

The two deaths we announced were a 91-year-old male and a 90-year-old female, both nursing home residents from Green County. This week tied for our most deaths, six.

We have two very large nursing home outbreaks occurring in our district right now, one in Green and one in Pulaski County. Our hearts and prayers go out to those residents, families, and staff members. I can’t imagine the stress, anguish, and pain they are going through.

We have 62 more active cases today than last Saturday, this despite having released 148 cases this week. Thus, community spread is still happening as we are adding more new cases than we are releasing recovered cases. Last Saturday, we had 26 cases hospitalized and today, 20. However, patient death accounts for much of the difference. This week, our new case rate once again exceeds that of the state’s new case rate. While the state’s new case rate seems to have plateaued for the moment, Lake Cumberland had its larges week of growth since the onset of the outbreak.

Please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding the touching of your face.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,661 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 43,126 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of today (this includes 43,066 statewide plus 60 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. (Aug. 22, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Saturday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“We are seeing our positivity rate go down, which means if we’re patient, we can find the right time to do things safely and that’s what I want us to be able to do,” said Gov. Beshear. “Now is the time when we determine if we can open schools safely, if we can get back to doing so many things we care about; so do your part.”

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 43,066 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 814 of which were newly reported Saturday. Seventeen of the newly reported cases were from children age 5 and younger. School has resumed within the past several days in some areas of the commonwealth. Among children ages 6-18, 93 have tested positive or were identified as “probable” for having tested positive for COVID-19.

“A hundred and ten kids 18 and under on today’s report – we continue to see far too many,” said the Governor.

“And in many of the places hardest hit for kids, they’re looking at opening schools this Monday or very soon.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 8 new deaths Saturday, raising the total to 872 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

“That’s eight additional families who are suffering during this time,” said Gov. Beshear.

The deaths reported Saturday included a 60-year-old man from Perry County; two 73-year-old women, one from Bell County and one from Garrard County; a 78-year-old woman from Oldham County; a 64-year-old man and an 84-year-old woman from Lewis County; an 81-year-old man from Scott County; and an 88-year-old woman from Jefferson County.

“An unfortunate consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic has been people avoiding care for both acute and chronic illness unrelated to the virus,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health.

“Don’t ignore caring for your health,” Dr. Stack said. “If you’re having chest pains or signs of stroke, for example, don’t let fear of contracting the virus stop you from seeking care. And, as this is Immunization Awareness Month, please make plans now to get your flu shot. We need to do all we can to avoid what’s being referred to as the ‘Twindemic,’ a flu season that’s projected to be very active at the same time as we continue to battle the coronavirus.”

As of Saturday, at least 819,265 tests had been administered. The COVID-19 testing positive rate, based on a seven-day rolling average, taking into account total positive tests reported by laboratories divided by total tests reported by labs, stood at 4.84 %. The number of Kentuckians who have recovered stood at 9,502.

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.

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.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 21, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Friday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“We have stopped the exponential growth and escalation of this virus, but we still have to fight every day, wear masks and stay six feet apart so we can get this thing on the decline and open more things safely,” said Gov. Beshear.

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Friday,  Aug. 21, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 42,265 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 785 of which were newly reported Friday. Seventeen of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“Ninety-seven of today’s cases are kids under 18,” said Gov. Beshear. “We’ve got to protect all of our children.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 8 new deaths Friday, raising the total to 864 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Friday include a 49-year-old man from Clark County; a 92-year-old woman from Green County; a 92-year-old woman and a 71-year-old man from Jefferson County; a 78-year-old man from Lewis County; a 56-year-old man from Madison County; a 77-year-old woman from Montgomery County; and a 63-year-old woman from Taylor County.

“It’s going to be a hard month. Let’s make sure we don’t do things that are going to spread this virus because ultimately, they do take a real human toll,” said Gov. Beshear.

As of Friday, there have been at least 803,198 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.18%, unchanged from yesterday. At least 9,448 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Week in Review
For more information on this week’s updates, including those on CARES funding for Western Kentucky, Central Kentucky and Northern Kentucky local governments; a new testing partnership with UK HealthCare; federal funding for public safety agencies; funding for new transit vehicles; the 100^th anniversary of the 19^th amendment; correctional facilities; unemployment assistance; testing expansion with Kroger; the 2020 census; Meals on Wheels; the Kentucky State Fair opening day; Immunization Awareness Month and more go to governor.ky.gov/news.

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 summaries of the Governor’s news conferences at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

On August 21, while acting on a tip from The Cumberland County Sheriff, Scott Daniels, Officers with the Columbia Police Department located a female juvenile previously reported missing from Colorado.

Whitley City, Ky. (August 21, 2020)- On Wednesday, August 19, 2020 shortly after 7:00 pm,  Kentucky State Police, London were sent to investigate a fatal train accident in the Revelo Community of McCreary County.

The initial investigation is that a train from Norfolk Southern had hit a pedestrian that was walking on the railroad tracks. The victim was identified as Chastity J. Atwell, 48 years old of Whitley City, KY. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene by the McCreary County Coroner. The victim has been sent to the State Medical Office in Frankfort for an autopsy.

Trooper Keegan Bray is continuing the investigation. He was assisted by State Police personnel, the McCreary County Sheriff's Office, Pine Knot Fire Department, McCreary County EMS and the McCreary County Coroner’s Office.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 21, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced Friday that the state’s application to bring in additional federal money to aid unemployed Kentuckians has been accepted.

“COVID-19 has caused the loss of millions of jobs across the nation, and unfortunately Kentucky is no exception,” the Governor said. “I am committed to fighting for every dollar to help our people survive this global pandemic and our workforce return to full strength.”

The Governor said Kentucky is the first state in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Region 4 to be approved through the agency’s Lost Wages Program to give $400 to unemployment insurance claimants.

“This program will allow about 80,000 Kentuckians receiving at least $100 a week unemployment benefits for the weeks of July 26-Aug. 15 to receive an additional payment of $400, if they are unemployed or partially unemployed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Gov. Beshear said. “The $400 will apply to all programs: traditional UI, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program and the extended benefits programs.”

The Governor noted the federal government originally provided an additional $600 to those facing job loss. That program ended without a replacement by the U.S. Congress. Then on Aug. 8, President Donald Trump signed a memorandum seeking to extend some additional benefits to Americans whose jobs have been harmed or eliminated by the global pandemic.

Gov. Beshear noted that most of the states approved for the program – including Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico and Utah – have chosen to fund the program solely with federal dollars, meaning recipients will receive $300.

“We have decided to provide an extra $100 using CARES Act money. Kentucky’s portion will be approximately $8 million per week, for a total of $24 million over the three-week initial grant period,” Gov. Beshear said. 
 

While the application is approved, reconfiguring the computer systems to pay the $400 is likely to take about two weeks. Therefore, benefits recipients should not expect the payments until sometime in early September.

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 summaries of the Governor’s news conferences at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

In Russell County 2 new cases Thursday. No one released. The 2 new cases are a 38 year old female and a 20 year old male who are both on self-isolation. We now have 20 active cases which 17 are on self-isolation and 3 hospitalized, 2 in Somerset and 1 at Russell County Hospital.

Adair County with 2 new cases yesterday with one person being released. We have 9 active cases with all 9 in home isolation.

Adair County School Board met last night.

Jim Liebe was there for WAVE NEWS and spoke with Dr. Stephens following the meeting... 

Jamestown City Council had a lengthy meeting last night.

Mayor Nick Shearer tells WAVE NEWS what took place...

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 20, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Thursday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“Today’s report is good news and bad news. This virus is still out there and still aggressively spreading,” said Gov. Beshear. “But our positivity rate is now down to 5.18%, which is headed in the right direction.”

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Thursday, Aug. 20, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 41,626 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 726 of which were newly reported Thursday. Twenty of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“Let’s make sure we make the right decisions to keep our cases low. Let’s make sure we wear our masks and stay six feet apart,” said Gov. Beshear.

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 14 new deaths Thursday, raising the total to 856 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Thursday include a 66-year-old man from Barren County; a 95-year-old woman from Clay County; two men, ages 81 and 88, from Fayette County; an 88-year-old woman from Gallatin County; a 55-year-old man from Graves County; an 84-year-old woman from Harlan County; a 77-year-old woman from Hopkins County; an 89-year-old man from Jackson County; a 57-year-old man from Marion County; a 96-year-old woman from Oldham County; a 65-year-old woman from Pulaski County; and a 76-year-old man from Warren County. One family asked for their loved one’s demographics not to be shared.

“We are announcing 14 new deaths today. That’s 38 deaths in just three days. We have to understand that this is not just real, this virus takes lives from us,” said Gov. Beshear.

As of Thursday, there have been at least 794,282 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.18%. At least 9,388 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Census Update
Today, Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander reminded Kentuckians of the importance of completing the 2020 census at 2020census.gov or by calling 844-330-2020. Kentuckians most comfortable in a language other than English can find multilingual census phone numbers here. At last count, 66.2% of Kentuckians have completed their census questionnaires. The deadline to submit once-per-decade census forms is Sept. 30, 2020. 

“Our hospitals, health care providers, social service agencies, housing authority and other organizations receive grant funding based on the number of people and the demographics of the population they serve. Let's not leave their supplemental funding on the table,” said Secretary Friedlander. “Furthermore, congressional and state legislative seats are based on population, which means if we don’t complete the census, we threaten our ability to be heard in Washington and here in Frankfort.”

Department of Aging and Independent Living Update
Today, Secretary Friedlander updated Kentuckians on the accomplishments of the Kentucky Department of Aging and Independent Living (DAIL) since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“For Kentucky’s 900,000 plus seniors ages 60 and up who live independently in our communities, nutrition has often been an issue,” said Secretary Friedlander. “For some of these vulnerable Kentuckians, it’s been a matter of transportation. For others, it’s been about not having enough money to pay for basic needs. For still others, they have had difficulty preparing meals. None of this is what we want for our seniors.”

DAIL has served 2.1 million meals to seniors in fiscal year 2020, and specifically, 1.4 million meals since March.

“DAIL has provided senior center meals and home-delivered meals thanks to the passage of the Older Americans Act in 1965. For some, this is their only meal of the day,” said Secretary Friedlander. “This is one of those success stories that should make us all proud to be Kentuckians.”

Secretary Friedlander highlighted that senior meals are another program supported by census completion.

“Federal funding for senior meals is based off of our census numbers. Let’s ensure Kentucky has increased funding to feed seniors as we are one of the fastest aging states in the nation,” said Secretary Friedlander.

Kentuckians who are interested in supporting seniors in their communities can reach out to local senior centers to volunteer to deliver meals. Kentuckians ages 60 and older who need meals may call the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 877-925-0037.

Kentucky State Fair Opening Day
Today, the Governor thanked the members of the Kentucky State Fair Board for their hard work to design a fair that would keep many traditions alive while also ensuring the safety of Kentuckians. The participants-only Kentucky State Fair opens today and runs until Saturday, Aug. 29. Today, the fair featured 4-H and FFA youth showing dairy cows and goats.

“Although this year’s fair looks different, it continues to highlight Kentucky’s premiere agriculture and equestrian industries,” said Gov. Beshear. “With nearly 76,000 farms and over 240,000 horses in the commonwealth, the state fair has a long history of celebrating the best Kentucky has to offer.”

For more information on the fair’s schedule and COVID-19 precautions, visit the fair’s website.

Immunization Awareness Month
August is Immunization Awareness Month, and today Gov. Beshear reminded Kentuckians of the importance of keeping themselves and their families up to date on vaccinations. The Governor shared an informational video on the topic as well, from Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky, which can be viewed here.

“One of the things that happened while we were all sheltering at home this spring and early summer was a big decline in vaccinations among Kentuckians,” said Gov. Beshear. “The rates have come back up as families feel safe going back to their physicians’ offices, but we’re still quite a bit behind where we need to be. And we’re about to enter into flu season, when getting our annual flu shot is vitally important to keeping our immune systems strong.”

When people get vaccinated, they not only protect themselves from a disease, but they also prevent themselves from spreading it to others who may be more vulnerable, including infants, seniors and people with compromised immune systems.

Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, also recently encouraged Kentuckians to keep their vaccinations up to date and especially urged them to get a flu shot this fall, citing the need to maximize hospital capacity in case of a COVID-19 surge.

“Get your flu shot. We need everyone to do this. We have to keep influenza as suppressed as we possibly can,” said Dr. Stack. “In a bad year with influenza, our hospitals are strained just keeping up with flu patients.”

Remembrance
Gov. Beshear on Thursday spoke about the life of one of the Kentuckians lost to the coronavirus.

Huey Cornelius and his wife raised their four children in Lexington.

“Dad was an educator, a principal, a coach, a class president, a neighbor, a Sunday School teacher, an insurance salesman, a friend, a classmate, an uncle, a brother, a grandpa, a husband and my father,” his son Brance Cornelius said.

Huey Cornelius, 81, died last Tuesday after falling ill with the coronavirus three weeks earlier. Brance said his father had no underlying health issues. “No heart attacks, no strokes, no diabetes, no bypasses,” he said. “He was an active 81-year-old.”

Brance said his mother also tested positive for COVID-19 but quickly recovered. He asked Gov. Beshear to share their story in the hope that Kentuckians will honor his father by doing everything they can to keep each other safe and prevent other families from enduring such a painful loss.

“Our father touched so many lives. He held several positions, but mostly that of educator and insurance agent. If we would have been allowed to have a funeral, the number would be in the hundreds,” Brance said. “Instead, we will mourn with our immediate family, that is, until it is safe to celebrate his life and legacy with those who loved him.”

Unemployment Assistance
Gov. Beshear announced yesterday that the state is applying for additional unemployment insurance assistance from the federal government. On Aug. 8, President Donald Trump signed a memorandum seeking to extend some additional benefits to Americans whose jobs have been harmed or eliminated by the global pandemic.

“This program will allow all Kentuckians receiving unemployment benefits for the weeks of July 26-Aug. 15 to receive an additional payment of $400 if they are unemployed or partially unemployed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Gov. Beshear said. “The $400 will apply to all programs: traditional UI, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program and the extended benefits programs.”

For more information, read yesterday’s full release.

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 summaries of the Governor’s news conferences at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

Local police report two arrest overnight on Drug related and other charges…

Kristina Cooper age 24, of Virginia was arrested by Officer Foster with the Columbia Police Department just before 3 a.m. this morning. Cooper was charged with 2 counts of Promoting Contraband – 1^st Degree, Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession, Possession of Open Alcohol Beverage Contain in Motor Vehicle Prohibited and served a warrant from another police agency.

Bobby Morrison age 43, of Columbia was arrested by Trooper Bale of the Kentucky State Police just after midnight last night. Charges included Operating Motor Vehicle under the Influence Alcohol/Drug – 1^st Offense, Operating Vehicle with Expired Operators License, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Meth), Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession and Assault, 4^th Degree (Domestic Violence) Minor Injury.

Both were lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

A Russell County Woman was arrest on theft charges yesterday morning. Rachel Tarry age 30, of Russell Springs was taken into custody by the Russell County Sheriff’s Office yesterday morning around 9:30. Tarry was charged with Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition Shoplifting. Tarry was also lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

Russell County had NO new cases on Wednesday, We had 1 case released yesterday from isolation. We now have 18 active cases which 15 are on self-isolation and 3 are hospitalized, 2 at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital in Somerset and 1 at Russell County Hospital.

Adair County also had NO new cases yesterday, we have 8 active cases with 7 in home isolation and 1 in an area hospital.

Deaths: We are sad to report 1 new death today from Pulaski. We have experienced a total of 48 deaths resulting in a 3.1% 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 21 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 154 hospitalizations resulting in a 10.1% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 65% of ICU beds and 27% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Not contagious) Cases: We released 22 cases today from isolation. Released cases include: Adair: 1; Casey: 2; Clinton: 2; Green: 1; Pulaski: 8; Russell: 1; Taylor: 2; and, Wayne: 5. In all, we have released 85.1% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,528 cases since the onset of the outbreak. This has resulted in us reaching out to over 9,170 contacts (a rough average of 6 contacts per case).

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 180 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 49 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 21 today: Casey: 1; Clinton: 3; Cumberland: 1; Green: 2; Pulaski: 7; Taylor: 6; and, Wayne: 1. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.015. This means our total case count is projected to double every 46.21 days.

The new cases include:

• Casey: A 5-year-old male who is self-isolated
• Clinton: A 56-year-old female who is self-isolated
• Clinton: A 68-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 12-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 57-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 46-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 33-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 54-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 53-year-old female 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, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 33-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 38-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 46-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 5-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 35-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 81-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 17-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 21-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 11-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: A 54-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic

The death we are reporting today was a 65-year-old female from Pulaski. Our hospitalizations remain at 21 with an average age of 60. Among our hospitalized cases, we have a 19-year-old, a 21-year-old, two patients in their 30s, two in their 40’s, and two in their 50’s.

We are happy we released more cases than we added. We so hope this downward trajectory will continue even as several area schools reopen to in-person instruction. Along that line, we are happy, to report no new clusters in any area schools.

Please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding the touching of your face.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,528 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 40,962 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of 08/19/20 (this includes 40,926 statewide plus 36 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. (Aug. 19, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Wednesday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“The COVID-19 death toll is more than in several wars that we have fought,” the Governor said. “I hope that we are committed to doing what it takes and making smart decisions to keep this virus on the decline. Not just so we can reopen businesses and schools, but so we can have fewer people die.”

Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, urged people to remain vigilant in protecting themselves and others.

“I know people are tired and want to get back to their normal lives. We are not here to separate people from their schools, jobs and social activities, but we cannot rationalize our way out of this. There’s a bad disease out there. We have no vaccine, cure or treatment. When it hits people it hits them hard, it causes hospitals to overcrowd and it takes lives,” Dr. Stack said. “We want to inspire you to do the right thing. Please listen to the public health professionals, here and around the nation. Every single one of us is saying the same thing: Wear masks, wash your hands, social distance.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. Aug. 19, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 40,926 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 655 of which were newly reported Wednesday. Fifteen of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger, including a 12-day-old baby in Jefferson County.

“Of the 655 new cases, 91 – which is 14% – are kids 18 years and younger,” the Governor said.

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 12 new deaths Wednesday, raising the total to 830 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Wednesday include an 82-year-old woman and an 86-year-old man from Barren County; a 79-year-old woman from Butler County; a 78-year-old man from Garrard County; a 75-year-old woman from Harlan County; a 58-year-old woman from Hart County; a 72-year-old man from Letcher County; an 81-year-old woman and a 91-year-old man from Logan County; an 82-year-old man from Mercer County; a 62-year-old man from Oldham County; and a 42-year-old man from Warren County.

“I don’t remember two days where we had this many deaths back-to-back, and it’s the result that we talked about earlier, that when you have 3,000 cases a week, the deaths follow a couple weeks after,” the Governor said. “We’re at that point now.”

As of Wednesday, there have been at least 785,138 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.41%. At least 9,331 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Unemployment Assistance
Gov. Beshear announced Wednesday that the state is applying for additional unemployment insurance assistance from the federal government. On Aug. 8, President Donald Trump signed a memorandum seeking to extend some additional benefits to Americans whose jobs have been harmed or eliminated by the global pandemic.

“Originally the federal government provided an additonal $600 for those on unemployment in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic,” the Governor said, noting that that benefit ended without being renewed by Congress.

The Governor said that on Thursday the Labor Cabinet will file an application for the Lost Wages Assistance Program that is being operated through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

“This program will allow all Kentuckians receiving unemployment benefits for the weeks of July 26-Aug. 15 to receive an additional payment of $400 if they are unemployed or partially unemployed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Gov. Beshear said. “The $400 will apply to all programs: traditional UI, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program and the extended benefits programs.”

He said only seven states – Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico and Utah – had been approved for the program and all have chosen to fund the program solely with federal dollars, meaning recipients will receive $300.

“We have decided to provide an extra $100 using CARES Act money. Kentucky’s portion will be approximately $8 million per week, for a total of $24 million over the three-week initial grant period,” Gov. Beshear said. “We believe this will make us the first state to apply that plans to fund the full $400 promised in the President’s memorandum.”

He cautioned that while FEMA should approve the application in 48-72 hours, reconfiguring the computer systems to pay the added $400 is likely to take about two weeks. Therefore, benefits recipients should not expect the payments until sometime in early September.

More Than $8 Million Approved in CARES Act Reimbursements for Local Governments
In collaboration with the Department for Local Government (DLG), today, Gov. Beshear announced 18 Central Kentucky governments were approved for $8,194,518 in reimbursements from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act for local governments with expenses related to COVID-19.

“Our local governments have been lifelines in our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, which is why this funding is so important,” said Gov. Beshear. “We are grateful for their hard work and dedication to keeping Kentuckians safe.”

For more information, read the full release.

New Testing Update
Gov. Beshear announced Wednesday that the state’s partnership with Kroger to provide free, drive-through testing is being extended in Lexington.

The testing will be done at Bluegrass Community & Technical College, 500 Newtown Pike.

“We know there have been testing shortages in this area, and so let’s make sure we fill up all of those appointments,” the Governor said.

To register and find more information on the testing, click 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 summaries of the Governor’s news conferences at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

• Casey: 52-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: 35-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 62-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: 1-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: 40-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: 74-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: 52-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 51-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 67-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: 57-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: 72-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: 73-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: 84-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: 74-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: 42-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 71-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 81-year-old female who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic

A Columbia man was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center on Domestic Violence and other charges early this morning. Thomas Doughty, 35, was taken into custody by Officer Trevor Foster for Assault, 4^th Degree (Domestic Violence) with Minor Injuries; Assault, 4^th Degree (Child Abuse); Endangering the Welfare of a Minor; Criminal Mischief 2^nd Degree; and Criminal Abuse Third Degree – Child 12 or Under.

Luis Martinez Cruz, 20 of Russell Springs, KY was arrested by Trooper Scott of the Kentucky State Police last evening. Martinez was charged with Strangulation 1^st Degree, Assault 4^th Degree (Domestic Violence), and Criminal Abuse 3^rd Degree. Martinez was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Autumn Thompson, 30 of Burkesville, KY was taken into custody by Deputy Daniels with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office overnight. Thompson was charged with Hindering Prosecution or Apprehension – 2nd Degree and Criminal Mischief 2^nd Degree.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 18, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Tuesday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“We can’t tell you how long we’re going to be fighting it, but we’re going to get through it and we’re going to win,” the Governor said. “To do it and to do it right, we’re going to have to listen to and follow some wisdom such as this Chinese proverb: ‘One moment of patience may ward off great disaster. One moment of impatience may ruin a whole life.’

“We are all desperate to get back to our old lives. But if we are not patient, we put the lives of other people on the line, we put the health of our economy on the line. And we potentially threaten what we love the most – our children – and their wellbeing. At a time like this, our patience is being tested. My question is, are we going to pass that test?”

Gov. Beshear also spoke about his recent orders and guidance on openings for schools and businesses. He noted that the decisions he and others in his administration have made are based on public health and pegged to information provided by the White House. The Governor noted that for the week of Aug. 8-14, the White House listed 20 Kentucky counties in the “red” zone, meaning there is a positivity rate of 10% or higher. Dozens more are in the 5-10% positivity rate “yellow” zone.

“If you add the red and the yellow counties, you are close to if not over 50% of an entire state,” the Governor said. “That’s exactly the reason that we took the actions on bars and restaurants and reduced gatherings to 10 or fewer, Dr. (Deborah) Birx said we have to do it statewide. She said, ‘I can hand you this report, but when you have this many counties that are in the red and the yellow zone, you have statewide community spread that is uncontrolled – uncontrolled spread of COVID-19.’ That doesn’t mean we can’t get it under control, it just means it takes some time and we have to be patient.”

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 40,299 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 627 of which were newly reported Tuesday. 14 of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger, including a 1-month-old from Pike County.

“Today, this is about what we have seen on other Tuesdays, going back three or four weeks. We are announcing 627 new cases; 76 of which are in Kentuckians 18 years or younger,” the Governor said. “I believe, again, first we’ve got to plateau, then we can get on that downward slope. Then we’re going to be in a much safer place to do things.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 12 new deaths Tuesday, raising the total to 830 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths include a 44-year-old woman from Carter County; a 67-year-old woman from Daviess County; an 89-year-old man from Graves County; two women, ages 72 and 83, and two men, ages 72 and 80, from Jefferson County; a 67-year-old woman from Letcher County; a 75-year-old woman from Oldham County; a 72-year-old woman and a 73-year-old man from Perry County; and an 84-year-old woman from Washington County.

“Today we’ve also lost 12 Kentuckians to COVID-19. Twelve. And when you look at this report, it’s people of a number of different ages,” Gov. Beshear said. “We haven’t had a lot of days where we’ve had double-digit deaths. What we’ve suffered from are a few every single day, which is hard, but a day when we have 12 from all over Kentucky is a difficult day.”

As of Tuesday, there have been at least 770,382 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.48%. At least 9,223 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Reinforcing the fact that the global health pandemic caused by COVID-19 will touch most of our lives in some way, Rocky Adkins, senior advisor to Gov. Beshear, spoke Tuesday about his father – 84-year-old Jess Adkins – who is recovering after falling ill from the coronavirus.

“I’m happy to report to you today that I got a call this morning from UK Medical Center that they are moving my father from the hospital to Cardinal Hill,” Adkins said. “Folks, that’s good news. And my dad is going to rehab, and after that, where we’re going to return him home.”

Adkins noted that his son who was helping his father also tested positive for coronavirus but is asymptomatic.

“I wanted to give this personal testimony today and this very personal story to hopefully reach somebody across Kentucky. First of all to tell you – by phone call or by someone – check on your neighbors. Check on your neighbor. Make sure they’re OK.

“Second of all, follow the guidelines. The protocols, the orders, all of these things that none of us may like, but appreciate and respect what’s being handed down,” Adkins said. “There will be time for debate on all of this, but I’m telling you for now, for Jess Adkins, for an 84-year-old man who will tell you as soon as he can to wear your mask, to wash your hands, to stay away from crowds, to social distance, all of that.”

100^th Anniversary of the 19^th Amendment
Gov. Beshear and Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman on Tuesday marked the 100^th anniversary of the 19^th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution with a proclamation honoring those who fought to ensure that women secured the right to vote.

“We honor the approval of the 19^th  Amendment, and recognize the contributions made by Kentucky women and men to its ratification, including Nettie Depp, a pioneer in education who will become the first woman to be presented with a statue in a place of honor in the State Capitol,” the Governor’s proclamation reads, in part. “And we resolve to remember their struggle and celebrate the history of the movement, and commit to the full equality for women.”

For the complete text, read the full proclamation here. After signing the proclamation, Gov. Beshear said he will give the pen he used as a gift to his daughter, Lila, as a reminder of the historic victory and advancement of women’s rights.

“I’m proud of our Kentucky men and women who made that historic achievement possible. In fact, in 1920, Kentucky had the highest women’s voter turnout in the nation at 57%,” said Lt. Gov. Coleman. “To every woman in Kentucky of voting age, this year, I challenge you to join me in beating that record set 100 years ago.

“We’ve made amazing strides – women can realize goals and serve in roles that previously have been far out of reach. However, we still have much further to go. We must recognize and celebrate women of color and of diverse backgrounds for us to fully be inclusive and realize our potential as a society. We must fight for equal pay for equal work. And we must continue to support young women and encourage them to follow their dreams, whatever they may be, because nothing – absolutely nothing – can or should stop a determined woman,” said Lt. Gov. Coleman.

In addition, the Governor was scheduled to take part in a ceremony at 8 p.m. in downtown Lexington along with Mayor Linda Gorton to dedicate a new sculpture, named “Stand.” Due to inclement weather, the event was postponed until Wednesday evening. The bronze work depicts five silhouetted images of the suffragists who fought for women’s right to vote in the early 20^th century.

$5.7 Million in U.S. DOJ Grants to Public Safety Agencies
In collaboration with the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet, today, Gov. Beshear announced that Kentucky’s local public safety agencies and eligible local governments have been awarded more than $5.7 million in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Justice’s (USDOJ) Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding Program (CESF).

“These funds are crucial in assisting police departments, sheriff’s offices, correctional institutions and other agencies within the criminal justice system to prevent, prepare for and respond to COVID-19,” said Gov. Beshear. “Our public safety agencies have worked tirelessly on the front lines during this pandemic and have adapted quickly to many new challenges to continue protecting our Kentucky families.”

For more information, read the full release.

More Than $9 Million Approved in CARES Act Reimbursements for Local Governments
In collaboration with the Department for Local Government (DLG), today, Gov. Beshear announced 11 Northern Kentucky governments were approved for $9,249,838 in reimbursements from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act for local governments with expenses related to COVID-19.

“Our local governments have been lifelines in our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, which is why this funding is so important,” said Gov. Beshear. “We are grateful for their hard work and dedication to keeping Kentuckians safe.”

For more information, read the full release.

Kentucky Transportation Gets $3 Million in Federal Funding
Gov. Beshear also announced Tuesday that the Federal Transit Administration has awarded more than $3 million to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. The money – $3,070,671 – will go to 10 public transit agencies across the commonwealth to purchase new transit vehicles.

“Reliable transportation is essential to so much we do in our daily lives,” Gov. Beshear said. “For many of our fellow Kentuckians, that means public transportation. It’s how they get to work, or school, or health care appointments, or the grocery and a host of other places. This funding is an investment on their behalf.”

The agencies serve 41 communities around the state. The agencies will use the money to purchase 62 vehicles.

For more information, read the full release.

Dr. Stack Update
Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, provided new information on a prison testing pilot program and reporting on COVID-19 for schools.

Dr. Stack said a pilot program is testing wastewater at Kentucky Correctional Institute for Women in Shelby County and the Kentucky State Reformatory in Oldham County. He said university labs will test the wastewater for the presence of COVID-19 RNA, hopefully providing an early indication of an outbreak.

“We are committed to keeping inmates and the staff that work in correctional facilities safe. This enables us to monitor a population that is confined in an area without having to test them unless we see a warning sign in the wastewater. In this type of test, COVID-19 also shows up multiple days earlier than people become symptomatic. So there’s a lot of reason to be hopeful about this,” said Dr. Stack.

Dr. Stack also spoke Tuesday about reporting protocols for public and private schools. He said schools will identify new COVID-19 cases and the students and staffers involved. The school will then notify the Kentucky Department for Public Health. The individual schools also will notify their school community about new cases. Finally, the KDPH will publish school case reports, just as it does for long-term care reports. The current plan is to not publicly list names, ages or genders of positive cases matched to a school, but to report the overall positive number of cases involving educators and students.

“Bringing kids back to school is not an issue where public health is in any disagreement with education. It’s not easily that we recommend that schools defer in-person class. Even though at the national level there’s clearly an emphasis on getting back in school, the surgeon general himself has said that when your test positivity rate goes over 10%, it’s going to be really hard to succeed regardless of your plans in place because the disease just spreads too fast. The World Health Organization goes further and says at over 5%, you’re going to have a really hard time,” said Dr. Stack. “We’re all committed to getting kids back to school, but we’ve got to do it safely.”

Prison Update
J. Michael Brown, secretary of Gov. Beshear’s executive cabinet, provided an update Tuesday on efforts to fight coronavirus at the state’s prisons.

“Looking week over week, some of the news is positive. Some of the news is tragic,” Secretary Brown said.

In the last week, there have been 12 new cases of positive inmates with seven of those coming from being transfers from Louisville Metro Detention Center. During that time, there was just one new positive staff member. Unfortunately, the Department of Corrections lost its first staff member, a retiree who had returned to work part-time, to COVID, bringing the overall number of deaths from correctional facilities to 13.

In corrections, there have been 863 total inmate cases with 570 of those now recovered. There have been seven institutions that have never had an inmate case.

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 summaries of the Governor’s news conferences at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

New cases of Covid-19 in the area went up as the Lake Cumberland District Health Department put out the latest numbers last night…

Russell County had 8 new cases Monday. None were released. We now have 22 active cases which 20 are on self-isolation and 2 are hospitalized, 1 in Somerset and 1 at Russell County Hospital. The new cases are a 62 year old female and a 4 year old female,36 year old male,27,54,58,52,57 year old males.

Adair County announced 9 cases were released yesterday and we have 4 new cases to report. We have 11 active cases with 10 in home isolation and 1 in an area hospital.

The Russell County Board of Education met last night in their regular monthly meeting.

Superintendent Michael Ford discussed the delay in Chrome Books for students and the start of the school year…

Ford tells us other action that was taken at Monday night’s meeting…

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 17, 2020) – In collaboration with the Department for Local Government (DLG), today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced 23 Western Kentucky governments were approved for $14,445,419 in reimbursements from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act for local governments with expenses related to COVID-19.

“Our local governments have been lifelines in our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, which is why this funding is so important,” said Gov. Beshear. “We are grateful for their hard work and dedication to keeping Kentuckians safe.”

DLG Commissioner Dennis Keene said the reimbursements are essential for local governments.

“We know our local governments are experiencing decreases in revenue, making this funding even more important while we combat this virus,” said Commissioner Keene. “Our staff is working diligently to make the process simple and efficient so we can get reimbursements out the door to our cities and counties as quickly as possible.”

Barren County
Barren County will use $512,399 for PPE, telework supplies, cleaning materials and payroll expenses.

“I would just like to thank everyone for all the work they have been doing and continue to do with the CARES application and process,” said Barren County Judge-Executive Micheal Hale. “We appreciate the work the Department for Local Government has done thus far and are looking forward to working with them in the future.”

Christian County
Christian County will use $850,598 to cover payroll for first responders.

“Christian County Fiscal Court received our first installment of CARES Act Funds on August 10,” said Christian County Judge-Executive Steve Tribble. “We appreciate Executive Director of the Office of State Grants and Acting Executive Director of the Office of Federal Grants Billie Johnson for the streamlined process she has in place. The conference calls and emails on the front end of the process with DLG staff was also very helpful. We look forward to working with DLG in the future as we draw down Christian County’s funds.”

Logan County
Logan County will use $368,518 for payroll expenses.

“As Logan County Judge Executive, I want to say thank you to the Department for Local Government for being responsive to our questions and application and the quick turn around of the CARES Act money,” said Logan County Judge-Executive Logan Chick. “What a blessing during this pandemic that we have a professional team of people that are so helpful and responsive to county and city governments.”

Meade County
Meade County will use $701,414 for PPE and payroll for police officers and EMS workers.

“On behalf of the Meade County Fiscal Court, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Department for Local Government for the help with the CARES Act funding during this difficult time,” said Meade County Judge-Executive Gerry Lynn. “This funding will greatly help us get through the pandemic by offsetting expenses for our first responders and keeping our community safe.”

Metcalfe County
Metcalfe County will use $175,332 for PPE, food delivery and payroll expenses.

Ohio County
Ohio County will use $245,242 for telework supplies, PPE, sanitation materials and payroll expenses for first responders.

“The CARES Act funds are a great blessing to our county,” said Ohio County Judge-Executive David Johnston. “I want to thank Gov. Beshear for allowing local governments to decide where the need is in our communities. This has allowed us to provide for the costs put on us by this pandemic. The extra cleaning, the jobs previously done by the inmates and the extra work put on front facing public officials are but a few of the challenges facing local government during this time. The CARES Act funds helped tremendously on these and other issues.”

Simpson County
Simpson County will use $317,392 for payroll expenses and PPE.

Webster County
Webster County will use $249,139 for senior services, payroll for the sheriff’s department and public health officials.

“The CARES funds come at such a helpful time for Webster County,” said Webster County Judge-Executive Stephen R. Henry. “Because of having to use unbudgeted funds in dealing with this pandemic, this funding will keep us from making future cuts to essential services for our citizens.”

Arlington
Arlington will use $529 for PPE.

Benton
Benton will use $226,890 for public radio announcements, sneeze guards, telework supplies, emergency sick leave for employees and police payroll.

Bowling Green
Bowling Green will use $4,918,471 for payroll expenses for police officers and firefighters.

Brownsville
Brownsville will use $20,737 for sanitizing supplies and payroll expenses.

“The City of Brownsville is grateful to receive the CARES Act funding to help us comply with the CDC guidelines,” said Brownsville City Clerk and Treasurer Lori Burnett.

Clarkson
Clarkson will use $52,671 for PPE and payroll expenses.

“We are very excited to receive this reimbursement,” said Clarkson Mayor Bonnie Henderson. “As a small town we have been hit hard financially by the pandemic. We are thankful for this money to help us at these uncertain times.”

Clay
Clay will use $19,857 for PPE, the installation of glass protective shields in offices and payroll for polices officers and firefighters.

Elizabethtown
Elizabethtown will use $2,168,482 for payroll expenses for police officers and firefighters.

“In a time of so much financial uncertainty for city governments across the commonwealth, we appreciate Gov. Beshear and our friends on the state level for identifying and providing assistance for financial hardships on municipalities,” said Elizabethtown Mayor Jeff Gregory. “These funds will help replenish rapidly emptying coffers due to costs associated with this terrible pandemic.”

Franklin
Franklin will use $533,490 for first responder payroll.

Hodgenville
Hodgenville will use $232,833 for first responder payroll.

“The CARES money will help us pay for the PPE items purchased for our employees,” said Hodgenville Mayor Jim Phelps. “We’ve purchased iPads for our staff and council members, set up cameras to allow in person meetings to be viewed on Facebook Live and we’ve secured our utility office to protect our staff and customers. We greatly appreciate the work that Gov. Beshear and DLG has done on our behalf.”

Horse Cave
Horse Cave will use $97,051 for PPE, telework supplies and payroll for police officers.

“We are most appreciative to receive these funds to purchase and cover essential needs for our city,” said Horse Cave Mayor Randall Curry. “Purchase of personal protective equipment has been very much one of our greatest needs during this very trying time in city government.”

Glasgow
Glasgow will use $1,037,178 for equipment to enable virtual meetings, payroll for police officers and firefighters, PPE and sanitizing supplies.

Morganfield
Morganfield will use $132,223 for payroll expenses.

“The CARES money will be a huge help to the City of Morganfield,” said Morganfield Mayor Randy Greenwell. “We will use part of the funds to install protective equipment for our citizens and employees, as well as make many needed repairs and improvements being neglected because of the loss of income caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Murray
Murray will use $1,391,245 for payroll expenses.

Tompkinsville
Tompkinsville will use $158,373 for police payroll, laptops and sanitizing supplies.

Uniontown
Uniontown will use $35,355 for payroll expenses for police officers.

“On behalf of the City of Uniontown I would like to thank Gov. Beshear for his support in such unprecedented times,” said Uniontown Mayor Thomas Byrd. “The money went to much needed various emergency protective equipment to keep our employees and citizens safe.”

Since the application was released in May, DLG has received more than 200 applications for reimbursement from city and county governments across the commonwealth that are pending approval until all documentation is submitted. In addition, 134 applications have already been approved totaling $66,601,727.

For additional information and to apply for reimbursement, visit DLG’s website.

More Information
Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov and the state’s response to COVID-19 at kycovid19.ky.gov.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 17, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Monday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“We are certainly in a time of crisis, and it’s one where our character and how we respond has never been more important,” the Governor said. “If crisis shows our character, is it one that yells at the checkout clerk who tells us we have to be wearing a facial covering? Is it one where if somebody is for something, we’re against it just because? Or is it one where we put the health and lives of our neighbors above our personal interests, a time where our character shows more kindness and empathy to one another than ever before, knowing we are all going through something very difficult?”

Case Information – Monday, Aug. 17
As of 3:00pmCT on Monday, Aug. 17, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 39,691 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 376 of which were newly reported Monday. Fourteen of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger, including two 11-month-olds.

“54 of these cases are from people 18 or younger,” said Gov. Beshear. “Just based on that, when they might have been going back to school today or next Monday, I think the right decision was made even if it was a hard one.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 5 new deaths Monday, raising the total to 818 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Monday include an 84-year-old man from Boyd County; a 91-year-old man from Calloway County; an 87-year-old woman from Franklin County; a 63-year-old man from Henry County; and a 75-year-old woman from Oldham County.

“We’ve also lost 5 more Kentuckians to COVID-19. So those green lights I saw – thank you. I don’t need them half as much as these families need them, but thank you for having the strength and the perseverance to keep going. We are still being tested about our kindness and our character, and I thank you for rising to that occasion,” said Gov. Beshear.

As of Monday, there have been at least 760,022 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.80%. At least 9,158 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Case Information – Sunday, Aug. 16
Due to limited reporting on the weekends, some updated information is now available from Sunday, Aug. 16.

As of Sunday, there were 757,828 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate was at 5.76% and at least 9,122 Kentuckians had recovered from the virus.

For a detailed look at coronavirus case information from Sunday, Aug. 16, click here.

New Testing Partnership
Gov. Beshear announced Monday that Kentucky’s Department for Public Health is partnering with the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare ?to begin free drive-up COVID-19 testing for the community. Officials said the testing will begin Aug. 24 at two sites.

“Kentucky remains at war with the coronavirus, and a robust testing program is essential to protecting one another, fully reopening our economy and getting all of our children back in classrooms,” Gov. Beshear said. “I want to thank the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare for stepping up with this partnership to provide the community with this free public health resource. Everyone should take advantage of these testing opportunities and be part of Team Kentucky’s push to defeat COVID-19.”

Beginning Aug. 24, community testing will be available in the new parking lot on College Way near the UK motor pool on the far southern edge of campus as well as on the grounds of Eastern State Hospital, which UK operates and manages for the state. The hospital is located off of Newtown Pike near the Interstate Highway 64/75 exchange. Eastern State is located at UK’s Coldstream Research Campus.

All testing will be available by scheduling an appointment. To receive a free COVID-19 test, an individual can register at: lexington.wildhealth.com. Testing will be seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

More information on testing opportunities at more than 200 sites throughout the commonwealth can be found here.

Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, explained that Kentucky is one of only a few states that has been able to maintain the same COVID-19 testing capacity in recent weeks as supplies necessary to run those tests are in greater and greater demand across the country.

“Test supplies are getting tight again. The demand for the tests continues to grow more quickly than the resources to provide the tests. So we are likely to be at some kind of plateau in number of tests for a while, but it’s going to be a challenge just to maintain the plateau because a lot of other states are going to compete now more intensely to try to get these resources,” said Dr. Stack. “But we’re going to work really hard to make sure we keep access to that. If we keep that, that’s just under 60,000 tests a week on average. That’s about 4.7% of the total population of Kentucky we would be testing. The White House’s initial guidelines were to test over 2%.”

More than $14 Million Approved in CARES Act Reimbursements for Local Governments
In collaboration with the Department for Local Government (DLG), today, Gov. Beshear announced 23 Western Kentucky governments were approved for $14,445,419 in reimbursements from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act for local governments with expenses related to COVID-19.

“Our local governments have been lifelines in our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, which is why this funding is so important,” said Gov. Beshear. “We are grateful for their hard work and dedication to keeping Kentuckians safe.”

For more information, read the full release.

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 summaries of the Governor’s news conferences at teamkentuckytranslations.com.

SOMERSET, Ky. (Aug. 17, 2020) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 Office advises motorists that Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2020 crews will be performing paving operations at the intersection of U.S. 127/KY 92/KY 619 (Jamestown Square) in Russell County.

Work is expected to begin approximately 6 a.m. CT and will continue until paving operations are completed tomorrow afternoon. Motorists are urged to use caution when traveling through the area and to pay close attention to signage and flaggers controlling traffic.

The date and duration of work may be adjusted for inclement weather or other unforeseeable delays. Drivers should expect delays and are encouraged to allow extra time in reaching their destination.  

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. 

Steven Harmon, 36, of Jamestown was arrested by Deputy Nathan Bradshaw with the Russell County Sheriff’s Office on Sunday afternoon. Harmon was charged with Assault, 4^th Degree (Domestic Violence) Minor Injury, Assault, 4^th Degree (No Visible Injury) Wanton Endangerment – 1^st Degree and Strangulation 1^st Degree.

Krista Meece, 48, of Russell Springs was taken into custody by Officer Justice with the Russell Springs Police Department on Sunday. Meece was charged with Failure to Register Transfer of Motor Vehicle, Failure of Non-Owner Operator to Maintain Required Insurance 1^st Offense, Failure to Produce Insurance Card, Driving on a DUI Suspended License – 1^st Offense, Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession.

Both were lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Tyler Thompson, 29, of Columbia, was arrested by KSP Trooper Lunz last night and charged with Failure to Give Right-of-way to Emergency Vehicle, Booster Seat Violations, Operating Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol – 2^nd Aggravated Circumstances and Wanton Endangerment – 2^nd Degree.

Johnathan Lawhorn, 23, of Russell Springs with arrested by Deputy Cross the Adair County Sheriff’s Office on Sunday evening. Lawhorn was charged with Assault 4^th Degree (Domestic Violence) Minor Injury, Menacing and Resisting Arrest.

Denzel Alcorn, 24, of Russell Springs was arrested by Columbia Police Dept. Officer Burton last evening. Alcorn was charged with Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession and Possession of a Controlled Substance.  

They were lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

• Joshua Eugene York, 33, of Russell Springs - arrested Saturday by Office Justice with the RSPD and charged with Assault 4th degree (Domestic Violence), Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct, Menacing, Violation of a Kentucky EPO/DVO, and Terroristic Threatening 3rd degree.

• Tracy Huff, 46, Monticello – arrested Sunday afternoon by KSP for Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st degree (Opiates), Prescription Controlled Substance Not in Proper Container, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Failure to Produce Insurance Card.
• Austin Weller, 25, Columbia - arrested Saturday night by the ACSO for DUI, Possession of Marijuana, Reckless Driving, and 3 counts of Wanton Endangerment 2nd degree.
• Kelsey Allen, 41, Westmoreland, TN - arrested by KSP on Saturday night for Possession of Open Alcoholic Beverage Container in Motor Vehicle, DUI, and Failure to Wear Seatbelt.
• Preslie Anne Lawless, 24, Columbia – arrested by Columbia Police on Saturday for DUI and No Seatbelt
• Reginald O’Connor of Columbia - arrested by KSP on Saturday for Registered Sex Offender Public Playground Restrictions.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 16, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Sunday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“The total number of new COVID-19 cases has increased this week which shows the disease is still very active in Kentucky, but on a positive note it appears that Kentuckians have stopped the exponential growth of the virus,” Gov. Beshear said. “Team Kentucky has again shown that if we socially distance, wear masks and wash our hands, we have a better chance of continuing to reopen our economy safely and get more Kentuckians back to school and work.”

Case Information
As of 2:00pmCT on Sunday,  Aug. 16, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 39,315 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 390 of which were newly reported Sunday. 13 of the newly reported cases were from children age 5 and younger.

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 3 new deaths Sunday, raising the total to 813 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

“That’s three more families who are suffering during this time,” said Gov. Beshear.

The deaths reported Sunday were all women: a 67-year-old from Fayette County, a 73-year-old from Perry County and a 91-year-old from Franklin County.

Due to limited reporting on Sundays, some statistics are unavailable until Monday.

“In Kentucky, the mortality rate is 2.1% compared to 3.2% nationally,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health. “This success is a combination of accomplishments including keeping COVID-19 from spreading out of control, excellent health care and more widespread testing than many other states.”

Even so, Dr. Stack urged, “We can’t allow ourselves to forget that this virus spreads rapidly and is very dangerous. Let’s continue to come together as Team Kentucky to keep ourselves, our friends, families and communities as safe as possible.”

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.

More Information
To read more about this week’s updates, including those on school reopening, restaurants and bars, behavioral health care, the state budget, CARES Act funding for Area Development Districts, the virtual ribbon-cutting ceremony for Abandoned Mine Lands pilot projects, CARES Act reimbursements for local governments, Volunteer Kentucky, Dr. Stack’s guidance and groundbreaking ceremonies at the Pikeville Medical Center, visit governor.ky.gov/news.

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

Deaths: We are pleased to report no new deaths today. We have experienced a total of 47 deaths resulting in a 3.3% mortality rate among known cases.

Hospitalizations: We presently have 17 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 141 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.8% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 60% of ICU beds and 29% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 30 cases today from isolation (recovered). Released cases include: Adair: 5; Casey: 1; Clinton: 2; Green: 4; Pulaski: 14; Russell: 1; and, Taylor: 3. In all, we have released 82.6% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,445 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 204 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 56 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 12 today: Adair: 1; Clinton: 2; Cumberland: 1; Green: 1; McCreary: 1; Pulaski: 4; Russell: 1; and, Taylor: 1. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.016. This means our total case count is projected to double every 44.46 days.
 

The new cases include:

• Adair: A 27-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 63-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 63-year-old female who is self-isolated, missing info
• Cumberland: A 40-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 39-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 67-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 82-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 23-year-old female who is self-isolated, missing info
• Russell: A 26-year-old female who is self-isolated, missing info
• Taylor: A 21-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic

It has been a challenging week for us and many of our community leaders as we have grappled with the decision to return to school in-person or not.

Undoubtedly, this is a complex and difficult decision with many valid variables to consider. From a purely public health perspective, we feel anything that encourages gatherings should be strongly discouraged until there is a vaccine. However, we know society will not tolerate that level of restriction.

Schools represent a series of difficult challenges. How do you enforce social distancing during transportation, mealtime, class exchanges etcetera? Will children be truly vigilant in wearing their face-coverings? Each school in our district has produced very well thought out re-opening plans that align with the state’s “Healthy at School” guidelines as they existed prior to the Governor shifting the guidelines to a recommendation not to return just yet to in-person instruction.

Will COVID-19 spread within the schools at an accelerated rate if they return to in-person instruction? Very likely it will. In fact, it is happening as we speak at many schools across our nation that have aleady reopened. Also, despite extreme, extreme measures being taken at long-term care facilities, once inside the building, in many instances, COVID-19 has spread rapidly. The “Healthy at School” guidelines are not nearly as restrictive as are the long-term care facility guidelines. We have also witnessed COVID-19 in many instances spread in environments were groups gather in confined spaces like churches, businesses, and medical facilities.

The question our society faces right now in terms of schools reopening to face-to-face instruction is, “Is the remedy (virtual classes to avoid the spread of COVID-19) worse than the problem (the significant chance of causing a community spike in COVID-19 cases [and the mortality and hospitalizations that would undoubtedly follow] if schools return to face-to-face instruction)?” Each community will have to answer that question for itself. Again, from a purely public health perspective, any activity that encourages social gathering should be strongly discouraged until there is a vaccine.

Our hospitalizations remained at 17 today. On a positive note, our total new cases for the week dropped to a 5-week low and our active cases dropped by 72 (meaning we released 72 more cases as recovered than we added new cases). Let’s not conclude that one week’s worth of data is a trend, but we are happy for the immediate downturn.

Please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding the touching of your face.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,445 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 38,976 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of 08/15/20 (this includes 38,930 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 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. (Aug. 15, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Saturday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“Saturday’s COVID report unfortunately suggests this is going to be the highest week of total cases that we’ve ever had, though our positivity rate is going down a little bit,” said Gov. Beshear. “Folks, this thing is real. We are at war with it and we are going to have to be the strong, resilient and also patient Kentuckians that we are to make sure that we prevent loss of life, that we promote health and that we protect our children, that we should never, ever experiment with.”

Case Information
As of 3pmCT on Saturday, Aug. 15, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 38,930 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 638 of which were newly reported Saturday. Seventeen of the newly reported cases were from children age 5 and younger.

The Governor highlighted how more young Kentuckians are testing positive, especially in the hot spots, as the new school year approaches. “When you look at how hard children are being hit now, 322 people under the age of 18 have tested positive since the beginning of this in Warren County alone.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 6 new deaths Saturday, raising the total to 810 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

“That’s six other families who are suffering during this time,” said Gov. Beshear.

The deaths reported Saturday included two men from Jefferson County, ages 71 and 85; a 57-year-old woman from Jefferson County; a 74-year-old man from Graves County; a 72-year-old man from Nicholas County, and an 89-year-old man from McCracken County.

Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health, said, “We all have crucial roles to play in the battle against the novel coronavirus. Now, more than ever, we have to renew our commitment to work together to protect ourselves, our friends, our families, and our communities. This week outpaced the number of new cases last week and, if we become complacent, our hard-fought containment of the coronavirus could slip from our grasp.”

We have to take this coronavirus seriously, Dr. Stack said. “Every person who avoids crowds, wears a face covering in public, maintains a social distance of at least six feet, and frequently washes their hands makes essential and invaluable contributions to our ability to fight this pandemic. If we all do these things consistently, we can suppress COVID-19 enough to more safely open schools and engage in many activities so important to our lives.”

As of Saturday, at least 754,985 tests had been administered. The COVID-19 testing positive rate, based on a seven-day rolling average, taking into account total positive tests reported by laboratories divided by total tests reported by labs, stood at 5.45%. The number of Kentuckians who have recovered stood at 9,091.

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

To read more about this week’s updates, including those on school reopening, restaurants and bars, behavioral health care, the state budget, CARES Act funding for Area Development Districts, the virtual ribbon-cutting ceremony for Abandoned Mine Lands pilot projects, CARES Act reimbursements for local governments, Volunteer Kentucky, Dr. Stack’s guidance and groundbreaking ceremonies at the Pikeville Medical Center, visit governor.ky.gov/news.

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.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 14, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Friday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“In my core, I want to get our kids back in classes. I want to get my kids back in class,” said Gov. Beshear. “My job is to tell people when I don’t believe it’s safe even if it’s unpopular. It is my job to make sure I do the very best I can for Kentuckians.”

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Friday, Aug. 14, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 38,298 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 679 of which were newly reported Friday. 22 of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“Today we continue to see high numbers of COVID-19 cases,” said Gov. Beshear. “At best we are at a plateau thanks to people’s wearing of facial coverings and we still need more time to reach a decline to get this state in the place we really need to be to do so many activities that we want.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 8 new deaths Friday, raising the total to 804 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Friday include an 85-year-old woman from Bell County; an 85-year-old woman from Casey County; a 63-year-old woman from Christian County; two women, ages 82 and 92, from Franklin County; a 75-year-old woman from Hopkins County; an 83-year-old woman from Jefferson County; and a 77-year-old woman from Lewis County.

“Those are most likely moms, grandmothers, sisters, who people have lost,” said Gov. Beshear. “Aunts, loved ones. So let’s make sure that for them we are strong, we light those green lights and we ring those bells every day at 10 a.m.”

As of Friday, there have been at least 743,500 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.68%. At least 9,021 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Gov. Beshear, Secretary of State Adams Finalize Plan for Safe General Election
Today, Gov. Beshear and Secretary of State Michael Adams announced a bipartisan agreement to allow Kentuckians to exercise their right to vote in the November General Election while protecting their health during the ongoing global pandemic.

On Friday, Secretary Adams sent Gov. Beshear a formal letter of recommendation, and the Governor issued an Executive Order that outlines procedures for the state’s General Election, to be held Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020.

“Secretary Adams and I were able to put partisanship aside and develop a plan for the General Election that puts the health and safety of Kentuckians first,” Gov. Beshear said. “This plan provides more time and options to vote in this General Election than ever before.”

“Gov. Beshear and I worked together across the partisan divide to fashion election rules that are fair to every voter regardless of party,” Secretary Adams said. “We kept the best of what worked in the June primary, especially giving voters options to safely cast their votes, and we built on that record with improvements – more in-person voting locations and faster election results.”

To learn more, read the full release detailing their agreement.

Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation Approves $1.3 Million in Loans
The Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation (KAFC) today approved $1,314,319 in seven agricultural loans for projects in the commonwealth at its board meeting.

“This is an area where we can lead the county but we’ve got to be innovative,” said Gov. Beshear. “We can’t just do things the way we’ve always done. This is an area where the next breakthroughs are going to be as important as in any other industry.”

To read more about each approved project, read the full release on KAFC’s board meeting.

Week in Review
To read more about this week’s updates, including those on school reopening, restaurants and bars, behavioral health care, the state budget, CARES Act funding for Area Development Districts, the virtual ribbon-cutting ceremony for Abandoned Mine Lands pilot projects, CARES Act reimbursements for local governments, Volunteer Kentucky, Dr. Stack’s guidance and groundbreaking ceremonies at the Pikeville Medical Center, visit governor.ky.gov/news.

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.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 14, 2020) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear and Secretary of State Michael Adams announced a bipartisan agreement to allow Kentuckians to exercise their right to vote in the November General Election while protecting their health during the ongoing global pandemic.

On Friday, Secretary Adams sent Gov. Beshear a formal letter of recommendation, and the Governor issued an Executive Order that outlines procedures for the state’s General Election, to be held Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020.

“Secretary Adams and I were able to put partisanship aside and develop a plan for the General Election that puts the health and safety of Kentuckians first,” Gov. Beshear said. “This plan provides more time and options to vote in this General Election than ever before.”

“Gov. Beshear and I worked together across the partisan divide to fashion election rules that are fair to every voter regardless of party,” Secretary Adams said. “We kept the best of what worked in the June primary, especially giving voters options to safely cast their votes, and we built on that record with improvements – more in-person voting locations, and faster election results.”

Gov. Beshear and Secretary Adams also worked across party lines to reach an agreement ahead of Kentucky’s primary elections, which were considered a national model and a success in the commonwealth and across the country with near record turnout while allowing Kentuckians to vote safely during the pandemic.

In the weeks ahead, the Governor, Secretary of State, State Board of Elections and local election officials will educate Kentuckians on the General Election plan.

Details of the plan include:
 

Absentee ballot by mail

• Kentuckians concerned with contracting or spreading COVID-19 can request a ballot by mail.
• An online portal will launch within the week to allow Kentuckians to request a ballot by mail. Ballots can be requested through the portal through Oct. 9, and through traditional means after.
• Mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day, Nov. 3, and received by Nov. 6.
• Drop boxes will be available for Kentuckians to return their mail ballots if they are concerned about postal delays. County clerks will determine these locations.

Early voting

• Beginning Oct. 13, three weeks before the election, every work day between Oct. 13 and Election Day, and every Saturday for at least four hours, every county clerk will provide a location for safe in-person voting.
• Early voting is not absentee voting – anyone can vote early for any reason.

Election Day voting

• County election officials will decide election sites on Election Day. The State Board of Elections, Secretary of State and Governor will approve each plan.
• Every county will have at least one voting super-center, where everyone from the county can go to vote, regardless of his or her precinct.

Voter identification

• Kentuckians who were unable to get a driver’s licenses or photo ID due to the pandemic because their clerk’s office was closed, or because they were afraid of exposing themselves to COVID-19, can sign a document explaining this concern and cast their ballot.

For more information on the state’s response to COVID-19 visit, kycovid19.ky.gov.

17-year-old Avel Gundorin has passed away as a result of injuries sustained in a vehicle vs pedestrian collision on Tuesday, August 11th, 2020 on Hwy East 80 in Adair County.

The collision occurred 4 miles east of Columbia on KY80. Upon arrival and investigation it was found that an unknown young, white male was pushing his bike in the middle of the roadway, going west toward Columbia. A 2007 Chevy pickup, operated by William Bryant, 79 of Columbia who was also traveling west, came over a small rise and struck the male who was in the roadway. The young man had no I.D. but the Adair Co. Sheriff's Office eventually discovered his identity with family members identifying him after seing a picture taken from a security camera.

Gundorin was flown to the University of KY Medical Center in Lexington, KY where he had been in the Intensive Care Unit since Wednesday. Again, Vundorin succumbed to his injuries earlier today (Friday).

A Census worker (with a badge/picture ID) could possibly show up on your property. This is of major importance to our local counties. It is required by law and is confidential. We need this “people” count! Census workers are sworn federal employees with a picture ID carrying a Census hand held device (smart phone).

Beverly Ballard, 59, of Burkesville was arrested by Officer Williams with the Burkesville Police Department last night. Ballard was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs .08 1^st Offense, Possession of a Controlled Substance, 3^rd Degree – Drug Unspecified, Prescription Controlled Substance not in Proper Container 1^st Offense, and Rear License not Illuminated. She was lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

Russell County 2 new cases Thursday, a 59 year old female and a 52 year old female which are both on self-isolation. We had 9 cases released from isolation yesterday. We now have 20 active cases which 18 are on self-isolation and 2 are hospitalized, 1 In Somerset and 1 at Russell County Hospital.

Adair County NO NEW CASES of COVID19 Thursday. We released 2 cases yesterday. We have 24 active cases with 22 in home isolation and 2 in an area hospital.

The Russell Springs City Council met in regular session Thursday night. Mayor Eddie Thomas tells WAVE listeners what took place…

Deaths: We are sad to report 1 new death today from Casey. We have experienced a total of 47 deaths resulting in a 3.3% 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 17 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 138 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.7% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 63% of ICU beds and 23% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 25 cases today from isolation (recovered). Released cases include: Adair: 2; Clinton: 1; Cumberland: 3; Green: 1; Pulaski: 9; and, Russell: 9. In all, we have released 79.5% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,417 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 243 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 60 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 24 today: Casey: 4; Green: 2; McCreary: 3; Pulaski: 11; Russell: 2; and, Taylor: 2. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.019. This means our total case count is projected to double every 37.7 days.

The new cases include:

• Casey: A 21-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 47-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 59-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 24-year-old female who is self-isolated, missing info
• Green: A 93-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 79-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 75-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 73-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 61-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 47-year-old female who is released, 8/08/20
• Pulaski: A 9-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 48-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 82-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 56-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 50-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 51-year-old male who is released, 7/23/20
  Pulaski: A 35-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 62-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 33-year-old female who is self-isolated, missing info
• Pulaski: A 76-year-old female who is self-isolated, missing info
• Russell: A 52-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 59-year-old female who is self-isolated, missing info
• Taylor: A 42-year-old female who is self-isolated, missing info
• Taylor: A 10 months-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic

Today has been a real struggle.  The death reported today was a 91-year-old female from Casey. Our current number of hospitalized increased by 4 to 17.

A lot of emotions are running high today as schools struggle with the decision to re-open to in-person instruction or not. There are strong emotions on both sides of issue. Both sides make valid points. Unfortunately, there is no good answer and each community will have to decide which “bitter pill to swallow”. We have little doubt, though, that COVID-19 will spread throughout the schools if face-to-face classes resume. We sincerely hope and pray we are wrong about that.

Please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding  the touching of your face.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,417 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 37,766 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of 08/13/20 (this includes 37,686 statewide plus 80 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. (Aug. 13, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Thursday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“Wearing a facial covering is absolutely critical to what we want to be able to do in the commonwealth moving forward,” said Gov. Beshear. “Protect lives, protect people’s health, protect the economy and ultimately get our kids back to in-person classes.”

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Thursday, Aug. 13, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 37,686 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 785 of which were newly reported Thursday. Twenty-five of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“We know that we have a lot of work to do to create the type of safe environments that we need to,” said Gov. Beshear. “Wearing a facial covering is working. Other steps are working. But we need you to stick with it. We cannot make decisions that are going to cause a significant spread.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 6 new deaths Thursday, raising the total to 796 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Thursday include a 56-year-old man from Carter County; an 80-year-old woman from Fayette County; two women, ages 82 and 89, and a 92-year-old man from Jefferson County; and a 74-year-old man from Taylor County.

“Let’s make sure we continue those green lights and ringing those bells,” said Gov. Beshear. “That’s for these families. Let’s honor those we’ve lost.”

As of Thursday, there have been at least 730,362 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.67%. At least 8,965 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

“We had more than 100,000 kids test positive nationwide just in the last couple weeks of July. We are seeing an explosion of positive tests among our young people,” said Gov. Beshear. “We cannot experiment with the health of our children.”

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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Dr. Stack Update
Today, Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, demonstrated how the commonwealth’s recent actions against COVID-19, including the statewide face coverings mandate, have flattened our curve of cases in comparison with other Southern states, like Georgia.

“When some of these states barreled forward, in Kentucky, we had a very measured and phased approach,” said Dr. Stack. “I think what we see is that the mask mandate is what impacted and hopefully flattened our curve.”

Dr. Stack also discussed how starting the K-12 school year virtually will give districts more time to prepare for a safe reopening later in the fall, as public health officials continue to learn more about how to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in classrooms, cafeterias, school buses and other spaces.

“Some schools have had to quarantine many students within days of kicking off the school year. I very much support the decision that the Governor made. I respect it’s a very difficult decision, but our disease burden for COVID-19 is at its all-time high,” said Dr. Stack. “We need to get kids back to school but we need to get kids back to school safely.”

Finally, Dr. Stack reminded Kentuckians that while the world is still waiting for a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine, each of us can already protect ourselves, our families and our communities from another illness by getting our annual flu vaccine. Dr. Stack has also previously urged parents to keep children on their regular schedule for all other required and recommended vaccines.

“Get your flu shot. We need everyone to do this. We have to keep influenza as suppressed as we possibly can,” said Dr. Stack. “In a bad year with influenza, our hospitals are strained just keeping up with flu patients.”

State Launches New Website to Support Nonprofit Organizations
Today, Gov. Beshear and Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS) Secretary Eric Friedlander announced many nonprofits now have free access to the state's new volunteer recruitment and management website, Volunteer Kentucky.

The new website, through Serve Kentucky, a CHFS agency, aims to provide efficient volunteer recruitment and management system, facilitating Kentuckians' search for, and response to service opportunities within their communities. The site will also help better track volunteerism in Kentucky.

“Kentuckians are generous people and are always stepping up to give back and help one another in a safe way during these unprecedented times,” Gov. Beshear said. “Through this new platform, more of our nonprofits have the ability to recruit new volunteers to help support many worthy causes.”

For more information, read the full release.

Virtual Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for Abandoned Mine Lands Pilot Projects
Gov. Beshear and Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) hosted the first-ever virtual ribbon-cutting ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda Thursday to celebrate the completion of Abandoned Mine Lands (AML) Pilot Program economic development and tourism-related projects in Perry, Floyd and Clay counties.

They also applauded the beginning of new construction at the EastPark Industrial Site spanning Boyd, Carter, Elliott, Greenup and Lawrence counties. The projects are a result of multiple investments, including more than $14 million in Abandoned Mine Lands Pilot Program grants.

Gov. Beshear praised the projects as a positive step for the region, which has seen coal severance funds diminish.

“I am committed to bringing economic opportunity to all regions of Kentucky, to create good jobs and make life better for every Kentucky family,” Gov. Beshear said.

“We’ve already made great strides in bringing greater investment to the region. In the coming months and years, more and more of these projects will continue, bringing jobs and economic diversity to Eastern Kentucky.”

To learn more, read the full release.

Nearly $4 Million Approved in CARES Act Reimbursements for Local Governments
In collaboration with the Department for Local Government (DLG), today, Gov. Beshear announced 15 Eastern Kentucky governments were approved for $3,891,092 in reimbursements from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act for local governments with expenses related to COVID-19.

“Our local governments have been lifelines in our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, which is why this funding is so important,” said Gov. Beshear.

“We are grateful for their hard work and dedication to keeping Kentuckians safe.”

For more information, read the full release.

School Opening Guidance
On Monday, Gov. Beshear, in consultation with Kentucky teachers and school administrators, announced new guidance asking schools to wait until Sept. 28 to begin in-person classes.

The Governor said the decision was driven by four factors: Kentucky’s cases being near a peak, an increase in infection rates among children across the U.S., the experience of school districts in other states and families continuing to travel to hotspots for vacations against the advice of health officials.

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.

• Adam Mann, 35, of Russell Springs was taken into custody by Deputy Perkins of the Russell County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday.  Mann was charged with 2 Counts of Probation Violation (for Felony Offense), 2 Counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance (Meth) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

• James West, 57, of Russell Springs was arrested by Deputy Perkins just on Wednesday evening. He was charged with Disorderly Conduct, 2^nd Degree and Menacing.

Both were lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

• Anthony Gilbert, 28, of Burkesville, KY was arrested by Deputy Daniels with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday afternoon. He was charged with Burglary, 3^rd Degree, Theft by Unlawful Taking (from building) $500 or more but under $10,000, Theft by Unlawful Taking (all others) $500 or more but under $10,000, Fleeing or Evading Police, 1^st Degree (on foot). 

Gilbert was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

Russell County 1 new case today, which is a 62 year old female who is on self-isolation. We had 3 cases released from isolation today. We now have 27 active cases which 25 are on self-isolation and 2 are hospitalized. 1 in Somerset and 1 at Russell County Hospital. Today, there will be a free drive thru testing clinic off of Dowell Road across from the Russell County Hospital 10:00 to 2:00 pm sponsored by Russell County Hospital, Lake Cumberland District Health Department and Russell County Emergency Management.

In Adair County yesterday also 1 new case of COVID19 to report. We have had 237 total cases with 192 recovered and 19 deaths. We have 26 active cases with 24 in home isolation and 2 in area hospitals.

Deaths: We are sad to report 1 new death today from Casey. We have experienced a total of 46 deaths resulting in a 3.3% 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 135 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.7% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 62% of ICU beds and 23% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 23 cases today from isolation (recovered). Released cases include: Casey: 1; Cumberland: 4; McCreary: 1; Pulaski: 10; Russell: 3; Taylor: 3; and, Wayne: 1. In all, we have released 79.1% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,393 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 245 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 61 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 36 today: Adair: 1; Casey: 2; Clinton: 2; Green: 13; McCreary: 3; Pulaski: 6; Russell: 1; Taylor: 6; and, Wayne: 2. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.018. This means our total case count is projected to double every 39.41 days.

The new cases include:

• Adair: A 52-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Casey: A 61-year-old male who is self-isolated, missing info
• Casey: A 85-year-old female who is deceased, expired
• Clinton: A 67-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 42-year-old female who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Green: A 80-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 35-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 71-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 18-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 73-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 86-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 92-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 75-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 65-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 40-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 95-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 64-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Green: A 76-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 22-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 26-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• McCreary: A 42-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 18-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 18-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 57-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 48-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 59-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 20-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 62-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 59-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 64-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 60-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 81-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 91-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 63-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: A 74-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Wayne: A 35-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic

Today has been challenging. The death reported was an 85-year-old female from Casey. Also, we have now experienced another nursing home outbreak, this time in Green County where 16 residents and/or staff are currently positive.

We are now hearing that some of the public schools will likely return by way of in-person instruction. I have consulted personally with several area Superintendents today. Our advice must agree with that of the Governor and the Kentucky Department of Public Health. That is, it would be best to wait. I have fielded some complaints today that we (the health department) had recently reviewed the schools’ reopening plans and found them to be consistent with the guidance. It is true, all the schools put a lot of thought into their plans and those plans did align with the guidance that was in place at the moment the plans were reviewed. Today’s guidance from the Governor and the Kentucky Department of Public Health, though, has evolved.

We look anxiously forward to the day a vaccine for COVID-19 is developed and we can transition from a containment to a vaccination plan. Until then, please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding the touching of your face.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,393 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 37,060 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of 08/12/20 (this includes 36,945 statewide plus 115 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. (Aug. 12, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Wednesday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

The Governor said he was feeling better a day after he and First Lady Britainy Beshear felt ill and the family was tested for the coronavirus.

“I am happy to report that both the First Lady and I and our kids and everybody that’s working around us tested negative for COVID yesterday, but we tried to take every precaution that we would want other people to take,” said Gov. Beshear.

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 36,945 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 1,163 of which were newly reported Wednesday. 39 of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“I believe today will be our single highest number of positive cases that we’ve had. Today we’ve set a record that we never wanted to set, going over 1,000 cases,” the Governor said. “Now, if there is good news in this, it is with the number of tests with the seven-day average, our positivity rate is actually down a little bit. But we need to get that much, much lower.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 7 new deaths Wednesday, raising the total to 790 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Wednesday include a 71-year-old man from Barren County; a 73-year-old woman from Christian County; a 75-year-old woman from Fayette County; two women, ages 85 and 87, from Jefferson County; a 71-year-old man from Meade County; and an 80-year-old man from Oldham County.

In an effort to show the human stories behind the numbers, Gov. Beshear has highlighted some of the Kentuckians taken from us too soon by the deadly coronavirus. On Wednesday, he spoke about William “Curtiss” Ice of Nelson County, who passed away at age 72 after fighting COVID-19.

Ice served in the Kentucky National Guard Battalion 138th Field Artillery, before a career as a manufacturing engineer with General Electric. After retiring, he returned to his passion of farming where he remained active in agriculture and beef cattle.

“Above all else, Curtiss was proud of his family and loved helping serve people in need,” the Governor said. “Those who knew him described Curtiss as intelligent, amiable and ‘downright jolly.’ You’d often see him supporting his grandchildren in their sports or academics, or using his leadership qualities in organizations throughout the area.”

Ice is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Wanda, his three children, seven grandchildren and 10 siblings.

As of Wednesday, there have been at least 717,370 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.62%. At least 8,893 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

$6 Million to Aid Kentucky Area Development Districts
Gov. Beshear announced today that Kentucky’s 15 Area Development Districts will have access to $6 million through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act to reimburse costs associated with the fight against COVID-19.

“Our Area Development Districts are critical parts of our local communities,” said Gov. Beshear. “These funds come at a crucial time when we are looking for ways to strengthen our communities and thoughtfully provide new opportunities, while continuing to keep Kentuckians safe. I am confident their guidance and this funding will help our cities and counties develop recovery plans that will help us come out of COVID-19 stronger than before.”

The funding will be split equally among the ADDs, totaling approximately $392,000 each. The remaining 1% each year will cover administrative costs for Department for Local Government. A list of Kentucky ADDs and their areas of service is available here.

Travel Advisory Update
Gov. Beshear offered an update on his administration’s travel advisory, which 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%.

The current areas meeting this threshold include Washington State, Florida, Nevada, Mississippi, Idaho, South Carolina, Texas, Alabama and Arizona.

For an updated list of areas meeting that threshold, click here.

School Opening Guidance
On Monday, Gov. Beshear, in consultation with Kentucky teachers and school administrators, announced new guidance asking schools to wait until Sept. 28 to begin in-person classes.

The Governor said the decision was driven by four factors: Kentucky’s cases being near a peak, an increase in infection rates among children across the U.S., the experience of school districts in other states and families continuing to travel to hotspots for vacations against the advice of health officials.

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.

Unknown man remains in critical condition after a vehicle vs pedestrian collision yesterday.

On 8-11-20 at 4:06pmCT, the Adair County Sheriffs Office responded to a call received by Adair 911 of a vehicle vs pedestrian collision 4 miles east of Columbia in KY80. Upon arrival and investigation it was found that an unknown white male, who appears to be in his early to mid 20’s, was pushing his bike in the middle of the roadway going west toward Columbia. A 2007 Chevy pickup, operated by William Bryant, 79 of Columbia who was also traveling west, came over a small rise and struck the male who was in the roadway.

At this time we have no positive ID on the pedestrian. A picture has been distributed to local and state media that was taken from a security camera a few hours prior to the collision. The bicyclist had no form of ID on him or any information leading to who he was or where he came from. The Sheriffs Ooffice has information he was seen in Casey County and Russell County earlier In the day. Sheriff Brockman says they are tracking down all leads but have had no success in making ID .   

Deaths: We are happy to report no new deaths today. We have experienced a total of 45 deaths resulting in a 3.3% mortality rate among known cases.

Hospitalizations: We presently have 12 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 132 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.7% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 62% of ICU beds and 23% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 27 cases today from isolation (recovered). Released cases include: Adair: 2; Casey: 8; Clinton: 1; McCreary: 3; Pulaski: 7; Russell: 5; and, Taylor: 1. In all, we have released 79.5% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,357 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 233 active cases in our district across all 10 of our district’s 10 counties. Of those active cases, 48 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 13 today: Casey: 2; Clinton: 1; Cumberland: 2; Pulaski: 3; Russell: 3; Taylor: 1; and, Wayne: 1. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.02. This means our total case count is projected to double every 33.91 days.

The new cases include:

• Casey: A 36-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 59-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: A 26-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Cumberland: A 42-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Cumberland: A 48-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 16-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 58-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 55-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 48-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 33-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 45-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 73-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: A 61-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic

We are glad to be able to report no new deaths. Our hospitalized cases increased by 2 to a total of 12. We released 14 more cases today as recovered than we added new cases. Our growth rate now projects our total cases to double about every 34 days.

Most of the area public schools have decided to start the school off via a virtual modality. Most of the private schools still plan on going in-person. At least this will allow us to evaluate how quickly COVID-19 will spread in a school setting on a “smaller scale” than if all schools had elected to returned to in-person instruction. We will learn a lot between now and October.

Please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding the touching of your face.

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,357 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 35,928 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of 08/11/20 (this includes 35,793 statewide plus 135 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.

Russell County with 3 new cases yesterday. We had 5 cases released Tuesday. We now have 29 active cases which 27 are on self-isolation and 2 are hospitalized, 1 in Somerset and 1 at Russell County Hospital.

Adair County with no new cases on Tuesday...

A Russell Springs man was arrested on several charges early this morning. Perry Bryant Bishop, 25, was taken into custody by Officer Justice with the Russell Springs Police Department just after 3:30 this morning. He was charged with: Fleeing or Evading Police, 1^st Degree (Motor Vehicle), Fleeing or Evading Police, 2^nd Degree (on Foot), Criminal Mischief, 1^st Degree, Reckless Driving, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Meth), Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/ Possession, Wanton Endangerment – 1^st Degree, Driving too Fast for Traffic Conditions, Operating on a Suspended or Revoked License, The by Deception-Include Cold Checks under $10,000, Theft of Identity of Another Without Consent, and Forgery, 2^nd Degree. Bishop was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Ellen Nicole Hodge, 24, of Columbia was taken into custody by Officer Foster with the Columbia Police Department, just before midnight last night. Hodge was charged with Menacing, Resisting Arrest and Disorderly Conduct, 1^st Degree. She was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.  

The Adair County Sheriff’s Office is needing assistance identifying the young man seen here on the bicycle. This photo is from a security camera taken on KY East 80 approximately 2 hrs before he was struck by a vehicle 4 miles east of Columbia on 80. The young man was airlifted out and is in critical condition. He had no identification with him and authorities are unable to find anyone who knows him.
     
If you have any information you think could help identify him, please call Adair County 911 and ask to speak to the deputy on duty or to Sheriff Brockman.   
 

Adair County Fiscal Court met Tuesday night. Jim Liebe covered the meeting for 92.7 the Wave...

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 11, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Tuesday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

Earlier Tuesday, the Governor and First Lady Britainy Beshear were not feeling well and, out of an abundance of caution, were tested for COVID-19 to protect themselves and those around them. The test results for Gov. Beshear and his family came back negative for the coronavirus.

“I wanted to start by letting you know that both my family and I are OK. We’ve tested negative for COVID-19 after a real scare. And I want to thank everybody out there who sent their thoughts and their prayers,” the Governor said. “This morning, late in the morning, I started feeling bad with a lot of the symptoms that can suggest COVID-19. Because of that I immediately isolated and canceled events we had in the afternoon. A couple hours later, I was tested. And even the short wait that I had to endure gives me newfound empathy for those that are having to wait even a couple days to get their test results back, knowing that they may be separated from their family and wondering what their immediate future is going to be. So I’m going to continue to try to lead with this empathy and hopefully it makes me a better Governor in addressing this virus.”

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT (4:00pmET) on Tuesday,  Aug. 11, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 35,793 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 562 of which were newly reported Tuesday. 18 of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger, including an 18-day-old from Hardin County, a 1-month-old from Rowan County and a 3-month-old from Lincoln County.

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 8 new deaths Tuesday, raising the total to 783 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

“This thing is real, it’s out there. We’ve got to make sure we’re doing everything we can to fight it,” the Governor said.

“While my family ended up negative today, I know there are a lot of families out there that are positive. We send you our love, we want you to get better. We want to make sure we’re not spreading this to any other family that has to endure any of that hardship.”

The deaths reported Tuesday include an 86-year-old man from Grant County; a 79-year-old woman from Hopkins County; three women, ages 54, 65 and 84, and two men, ages 75 and 93, from Jefferson County; and a 60-year-old man from Ohio County.

As of Tuesday, there have been at least 711,017 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.87%.

“That is a number that is just too high to do a number of things we want to do,” Gov. Beshear said. “It means it’s just not safe at this moment to do a number of things that we’re working toward. But I’m committed, I’m committed to getting our kids back in school in a safe manner.”

At least 8,819 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

School Opening Guidance
On Monday, Gov. Beshear and administration officials, in consultation with Kentucky teachers and school administrators, announced new guidance asking schools to wait until Sept. 28 to begin in-person classes.

The Governor said the decision was driven by four factors: Kentucky’s cases being near a peak, an increase in infection rates among children across the U.S., the experience of school districts in other states and families continuing to travel to hotspots for vacations against the advice of health officials.

Restaurants and Bars Update
Also Monday, La Tasha Buckner, the Governor’s chief of staff and general counsel, offered an update on bars and restaurants operating in the commonwealth.

Buckner said a new order, effective today, allows bars to reopen and restaurants to increase their capacity. Both bars and restaurants can operate at 50% of capacity, as long as other guidance requiring social distancing, facial coverings and sanitation is followed.

Customers in both bars and restaurants will be required to remain in their seats, except when entering, leaving or using the restroom. In addition, bars and restaurants will be required to halt food and beverage service by 10 p.m. and close at 11 p.m. local time.

The full list of requirements is posted on the Healthy at Work website.

Burkesville, KY. (August 11, 2020) – The Kentucky State Police, Columbia Post is investigating an officer involved shooting that occurred just before 4:30pmCT yesterday afternoon in Cumberland County.

The initial investigation indicates that the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department responded to a residence on Rose of Sharon Road in reference to a domestic violence dispute between a man and a woman. During their investigation, 40 year old Kevin M. Starks of Burkesville, refused to cooperate, and attempted to leave the scene in a 2009 Ford Flex. While leaving, he struck a deputy and a cruiser with his vehicle, at which time shots were fired. Following the shooting, the suspect led deputies on a short pursuit that ended on Glidwell Spur Rd, where Starks was taken into custody without further incident.

Kevin Starks was transported to the Cumberland County Hospital with non-life threatening injuries and later airlifted to the University of Kentucky Hospital. The Cumberland County Deputy who was struck by the vehicle was not injured, and criminal charges are pending by the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department.

The ongoing shooting investigation is being conducted by KSP Post 15 Sergeant Adam Likins.

Deaths: We are sad to report 1 new death today from Taylor. We have experienced a total of 45 deaths resulting in a 3.3% 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 10 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 130 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.7% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 63% of ICU beds and 25% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 41 cases today from isolation (recovered). Released cases include: Adair: 5; Casey: 8; Clinton: 2; Cumberland: 5; Green: 1; McCreary: 1; Pulaski: 11; Russell: 1; Taylor: 3; and, Wayne: 4. In all, we have released 78.3% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,344 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, 47 are asymptomatic.

New Cases: We report that our total case count has increased by 28 today: Adair: 4; Casey: 2; Clinton: 1; McCreary: 1; Pulaski: 9; Russell: 5; Taylor: 4; and, Wayne: 2. Our current new case growth rate is: 1.02. This means our total case count is projected to double every 30.54 days.

The new cases include:

• Adair: A 63-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Adair: A 18-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Adair: A 58-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 26-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 67-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 18-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Clinton: A 55-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 48-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 19-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 41-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 43-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 80-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 65-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 49-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 65-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 3-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Russell: A 54-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Russell: A 25-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 37-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 60-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 58-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 21-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Taylor: A 74-year-old male who is deceased, expired
• Taylor: A 21-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: A 56-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: A 7-year-old female who is self-isolated

We must announce one new COVID-19 related death today, a 74-year-old male from Taylor. We also have one additional hospitalized case over yesterday (from 9 to 10). On the upside, we released 14 more cases today than we added new ones.

I just heard in the Governor’s Brief where he is recommending schools be postponed to in-person classes until the end of September. How many of our local school districts will follow this guidance, we will find out over the next few days. Hopefully, a vaccine will be developed by early next calendar year and we can transition from a containment to a vaccination strategy. Like everyone else, we are anxious for things to return to normal.

Until then, please help us slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing your face covering, avoiding crowds (especially in confined spaces), social distancing when around others, increasing your hand hygiene, increasing your general sanitation, and by avoiding the touching of your face?

The Lake Cumberland area has experienced 1,344 Cumulative Confirmed Cases and there have been 35,409 Confirmed COVID-19 cases across all 120 Kentucky Counties as of 08/10/20 (this includes 36,254 statewide plus 155 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.

https://www.lcdhd.org/2020/08/10/public-information-brief-8-10-20/

A Russellville woman was arrested early Tuesday morning on speeding and drug charges by the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office.

Barbara Johnson, 29, was taken into custody by Deputy Daniels and charged with Speeding 16 mph over the limit, Failure to Wear Seat Belt, Operating on a Suspended or Revoked Operators License, and Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1^st Degree, 2^nd Offense (Meth). Johnson was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

The Russell County Fiscal Court met last evening for its regular monthly meeting. Russell County Judge Exec. Gary Robertson spoke to WAVE NEWS following the meeting... 
 

An Adair County man was arrested for Arson following an early morning fire in the Coburg community.

• REQUEST FOR PAYMENT FOR TRANSFER STATION 
• PERMISSION TO APPLY FOR AND ALLOW JUDGE TO SIGN LITTER ABATEMENT GRANT 
• PERMISSON FOR RIGHT OF WAY EASEMENT ON LOY CEM. RD. 
• PERMISSON TO SIGN CINTAS AGREEMENT FOR ROAD DEPT UNIFORMS, MATS & GRAS SANITIZATON STATION

11.  OTHER BUSINESS

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 10, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Monday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the commonwealth.

“Let me start by reiterating that we are still in a very difficult, dangerous place with a virus that is spreading so significantly right now,” the Governor said. “One of the foremost experts this morning talked about it raging in the United States. I believe we have stopped the exponential growth, but we can’t just stay where we are. We have got to start decreasing our cases.”

School Opening Guidance
Gov. Beshear and administration officials, in consultation with Kentucky teachers and school administrators, on Monday announced new guidance for schools that are planning for the fall semester.

“Our recommendation today is that schools wait to begin in-person classes until Sept. 28,” the Governor said. “Yes, that’s six weeks from now, but it’s also six weeks from what I hope is the peak of this virus, six weeks from the last three weeks where we have been at an all-time high week in and week out, six weeks from a time when we just had a 6% positivity rate. Let’s face it, we’re trying really hard and we’ve taken good steps. Masks are working. But we do not have control over this virus. And to send tens of thousands of our kids back into in-person classes when we don’t have control of this virus, it’s not the right thing to do for these kids, it’s not the right thing to do for their faculty and it’s not the right thing to do as Governor.”

He said the decision was driven by four factors: Kentucky’s cases being near a peak, an increase in infection rates among children across the U.S., the experience of school districts in other states and families continuing to travel to hotspots for vacations against the advice of health officials.

“I think what all of the health care specialists said when we talked about reopening, is we need to be looking at a decline. In other words, we need to get our positive rate down,” the Governor said. “On top of that, what we’re seeing are more outbreaks and more infections in kids. The two hardest things I do every day is read the deaths and the number of kids infected under 5. And it’s not just kids under 5. We’re having record numbers of children that are infected, and it shows this infection spreads to them when we still don’t know the long-term impact. What we do know is children have a harder time social distancing. And we can’t put a whole bunch of them in a classroom with a teacher right now. Other states that have tried to open this new school year are now having to close. We don’t want to start and stop. That may be more difficult on our children.”

Restaurants and Bars Update
La Tasha Buckner, the Governor’s chief of staff and general counsel, offered an update on bars and restaurants operating in the commonwealth.

“Today we are issuing a new order, effective tomorrow, which will allow bars to reopen and restaurants to increase their capacity,” Buckner said. “Both bars and restaurants can operate at 50% of capacity, as long as people can remain six feet from anyone who is not in their household or group.”

She said the reopening and increase in capacity comes with new requirements to avoid another spike in COVID-19 cases. First, customers in both bars and restaurants will be required to remain in their seats, except when entering, leaving or using the restroom.

Second, bars and restaurants will be required to halt food and beverage service by 10 p.m. and close at 11 p.m. local time.

“Third, as the Governor mentioned previously, the face-covering requirement has been extended as of Sunday for another 30 days,” Buckner said. “Therefore, just like in other businesses, all customers and staff must wear a face covering while in the bar or restaurant except when actively eating or drinking.”

The full list of requirements is posted on the Healthy at Work website.

Case Information – Monday, Aug. 10
As of 4 p.m. Aug. 10, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 35,254 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 275 of which were newly reported Monday. Thirteen of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger, including five who are less than a year old.

The Governor noted that a technical issue with the state’s data processor is causing a delay in some reporting, leading to lower numbers that will be updated later this week.

“Today’s number needs to have a giant asterisk on it, because we know that number is higher and will change,” said Gov. Beshear.

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 2 new deaths Monday, raising the total to 775 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Monday include a 60-year-old woman from Graves County and a 98-year-old woman from Lincoln County.

“We hope we are getting even better at treating this virus,” said Gov. Beshear. “But these are two families that still need our support, our green lights, those bells and most important, for us all to do the things we know will help prevent more tragic loss.”

As of Monday, there have been at least 700,417 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.71%. At least 8,738 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Case Information – Sunday, Aug. 9
Due to limited reporting on the weekends, some updated information is now available from Sunday, Aug. 9.

As of Sunday, there were 698,854 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate was at 5.74% and at least 8,721 Kentuckians had recovered from the virus.

For a detailed look at coronavirus case information from Sunday, Aug. 9, click here.

Behavioral Health Care
Eric Friedlander, Secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, also spoke Monday about a new project that Kentucky has been selected to take part in to expand behavior health care treatment.

The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recently informed Kentucky it had been selected to participate in the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic demonstration.

“In addition to a more efficient payment system, more treatment options for serious mental illness are needed, and that includes attention to opioid addiction,” Secretary Friedlander said.

Initial results from an evaluation of the eight original states to participate in the program found positive outcomes across a range of factors, officials said.

Secretary Friedlander also provided an update about payment assistance to providers impacted by COVID-19. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has made $15 billion available to help cover lost revenue attributed to the coronavirus, or to help defray the cost of expenses to prevent, prepare or respond to COVID-19. Providers may be eligible for approximately 2% of reported revenue from patient care. The application deadline is Aug. 28, and providers may call 866-569-3522 for more information.

State Budget Update
The Office of the State Budget Director announced today that the state’s General Fund receipts for July, the first month of Fiscal Year 2021 (FY21), totaled $905.1 million, a 7% increase compared with July 2019 receipts. Collections for the month were surprisingly strong given the general slowdown in consumer spending arising from the uncertainty of the novel coronavirus.

“That’s really good news. It suggests that our economy is still afloat. But we know what it’s taken to keep it afloat,” said Gov. Beshear. “The people of Kentucky are doing what we need them to do with those stimulus and unemployment insurance dollars – they are spending them. They are helping our economy in so many different ways. And so the federal government is going to have to come to some compromise to continue to support state and local governments.”

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.

On Sunday evening, August 9, 2020 a traffic stop was initiated by the Columbia Police Department near Helen Flatt Drive. The operator could not produce a valid operators license and denied Officers consent to search the vehicle. 

K-9 Unit Nitro was utilized from the Adair Sheriff’s Office and alerted on the vehicle. A search of the vehicle yielded drug paraphernalia and suspected methamphetamine. 

Noah Dial, 18, of Columbia, KY has been charged with No Operators License, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Methamphetamine 1st offense (a class D felony).

Additionally, Riley Baker, 18, also of Columbia who was a passenger in the vehicle, was charged with possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Methamphetamine 1st offense and Tampering with Physical Evidence. 

Officer Trevor Foster was the arresting Officer. He was assisted on scene by Deputy Justin Cross and Deputy Josh Durbin.

Latisha Bunch, 31, of Russell Springs, KY was taken into custody by Deputy Hughes of the Russell County Sheriff’s Office just after noon on Sunday. Bunch was charged with Assault, 4^th Degree (Domestic Violence) with Minor Injury and Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Meth). She was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Russell County 2 new cases Sunday, a 50 year old female and a 51 year old female which are both on self-isolation.We had 1 case released today from isolation. We now have 27 active cases which 26 are on self-isolation and 1 is hospitalized in Lexington at Central Baptist. One of the new cases is symptomatic and the other new case is asymptomatic.

Adair County had 1 new case of COVID19 to report Sunday. We released 3 cases today. Adair has 28 active cases with 27 in home isolation and 1 in an area hospital.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 9, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Sunday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“Some good news and some bad news in today’s COVID-19 report,” the Governor said. “In good news, we’re ending the week with about 330 fewer cases than we had last week. That’s directly attributable to people wearing their facial coverings or masks. Please keep it up, wear them even more, especially when you’re inside. On the bad side, our positivity rate, which won’t be official until tomorrow for this week, will be higher meaning that the virus continues to spread aggressively.”

Case Information
As of 3 p.m. Aug. 9, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 34,982 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 425 of which were newly reported Sunday. Nine of the newly reported cases were from children age 5 and younger.

“We’ve got a number of counties that have 10 or more new cases – Jefferson, Fayette, Pulaski, Taylor, Hardin, Madison, Casey, Warren and Wayne – and a number that are really close there. So remember no matter where you are in the commonwealth, COVID-19 is spreading,” the Governor said. “Nine new kids under 5 have tested positive, so again let’s make sure we’re protecting each other.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported one new death Sunday, raising the total to 773 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

“That’s yet another family that is suffering during this time,” said Gov. Beshear.

The death reported Sunday was a 71-year-old man from Pulaski County.

Due to limited reporting on Sundays, some statistics are unavailable until Monday.

Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health, said: “Last week, we saw rising case counts of COVID-19 in all but five Kentucky counties.
 

COVID-19 is still out there and it’s still a threat. We are encouraged, though, by the many Kentuckians taking this seriously and taking steps to keep themselves and others safer, including wearing a mask.”

Dr. Stack added: “More Kentuckians will get COVID-19 resulting in more hospitalizations and deaths, but we know what to do right now to mitigate the risk. Every time we take steps, such as wearing masks and social distancing, it impacts how many Kentuckians will test positive, how many businesses, schools and other places where we gather can remain open, and how many Kentuckians will get hurt.”

He noted that this can be done by remembering a few things. “When you and your household members leave your home, be aware that it increases your risk of exposure. Ultimately, you decide when to leave your home, how often, and for what reasons. If you do, please do it in a safe way,” Dr. Stack said.

“Continue to wear a mask. When possible, walk or bike to your destination or take your own vehicle,” he said.

“Avoid interacting closely with people and unnecessarily touching things. Keep disinfecting wipes or hand sanitizer with you. Wash your hands frequently. If you sneeze, sneeze into your elbow. If you sneeze into a cloth mask, wash your mask when you get home.”

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
For more information on this week’s updates, including those on expanded COVID-19 testing, new flexibility for schools, the David McAtee shooting investigation, the First Lady’s Coverings for Kids program, long-term care, transportation CARES Act funding, Dollar General’s expansion in Kentucky, the Nettie Depp monument, Kentucky Infrastructure Authority loans, the 2020 Kentucky State Fair, corrections, driver’s licensing, pharmacy refills and price-gouging prohibition, visit governor.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.
 

• Drivers License or state-issued identification
• Social security card
• High school diploma or GED
• Home internet test (test can be run by going to www.speedtest.com)

• Adair: 23-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Clinton: 75-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• McCreary: 27-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 46-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 18-year-old female who is self-isolated, missing info
• Pulaski: 19-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: 11-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: 42-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: 62-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: 63-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Taylor: 31-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Wayne: 59-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: 67-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Wayne: 49-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Wayne: 17-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Wayne: 13-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Wayne: 15-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Wayne: 35-year-old female who is self-isolated, asymptomatic

• Thomas McVay, 37, Campbellsville - arrested on Saturday morning by the Cumberland County Sheriffs Office for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Giving Office False Identifying Information, and was served 3 Warrants for other Police Agencies.
• Bryan Cozier, 42, Columbia - arrested by the ACSO early Saturday morning for Alcohol Intoxication in a Public Place (1st & 2nd Offense).
• Brian White, 56, Columbia - arrested Saturday night by CPD for Terroristic Threatening 3rd Degree and Alcohol Intoxication in a Public Place. 
• Michael White, 57, Columbia- arrested last night by the CPD for Speeding, Reckless Driving, DUI, Menacing, Possession of Open Alcoholic Beverage in Motor Vehicle, Disorderly Conduct 2nd degree, and 2 counts of Terroristic Threatening.

• Kenny Robertson, 65, Russell Springs - arrested by KSP on Saturday morning for DUI, Driving on a DUI Suspended License, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Trafficking in a Controlled Substance 3rd degree (Drug Unspecified).
• Pamela Murray, 66, Jamestown - arrested by RSPD for Illegal Possession of a Legend Drug and Failure to Appear.
• Robert Gagel, 57, of Battletown, KY arrested by Fish and Wildlife Resources for Failure to Operate his Boat at Idle Speed; Operating Boat/Watercraft While Intoxicated or Under the Influence; and Non-Approved, Insufficient, or No Personal Floatation Device.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 8, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Saturday updated Kentuckians on the state’s continuing efforts to fight the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).

“Today is a tough day in our fight against COVID-19,” said Gov. Beshear. “I know we are slowing the growth of this virus in Kentucky, but it’s still aggressive. We simply need to do better.”

Case Information
As of 4 p.m. Aug. 8, Gov. Beshear said there were at least 34,578 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 801 of which were newly reported Saturday. Twenty-nine of the newly reported cases were from children age 5 and younger.

“Our positivity rate is the highest we’ve had since we tested the entire Green River Correctional Facility back in May,” said Gov. Beshear.

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 8 new deaths Saturday, raising the total to 772 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

“Folks, we need your help. This is the time where we need to buckle down and do what it takes to get this virus under control. Please stay safe and take this seriously,” said Gov. Beshear.

The deaths reported Saturday include a 64-year-old woman from Fulton County; a 56-year-old woman from Kenton County; a 68-year-old man from Bell County; a 93-year-old man from Christian County; a 97-year-old woman, also from Christian County; a 66-year-old woman from Pulaski County; an 82-year-old woman from Clinton County, and a 73-year-old woman from Muhlenberg County.

COVID-19 has hit us hard, “but we are not powerless,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health. “We have shown repeatedly that our individual actions will determine our future. Will you continue to wear a face covering? Are you keeping at least six feet distance between yourself and others?

Are you washing your hands frequently? And, if you receive a call from a contact tracer, will you answer? If each of us answers ‘Yes!’ through our actions, we can keep Kentuckians safe and keep Kentucky open.

Together, Team Kentucky can contain the coronavirus.”

As of Saturday, there have been at least 690,942 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 6.02%. At least 8,647 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 Saturday, August 8, 2020 CPD Officers observed a subject at FiveStar on Hudson Street behind the wheel, whom they were aware had a suspended operators license. The individual, identified as 33-year-old Patrick Rowe of Columbia, KY also had warrants from Adair and Russell counties. Officers observed scales in the auto and suspected there was heroin in the vehicle. 

The Columbia Police Department initiated a traffic stop on Bomar Heights near Cedar Street on Friday afternoon, August 7, 2020 which resulted in drug charges.

The operator of the vehicle, Lonnie Mann, 25, of Columbia was taken into custody on three active warrants related to previous drug charges. Mann was also charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance (Heroine) after he was found to be in possession of suspected narcotics at the time of his arrest. 

Officer Evan Burton was the arresting Officer. He was assisted on scene by Officer Drew Conn.

• Joshua Eugene York, 33, of Russell Springs - arrested Saturday by Office Justice with the RSPD and charged with Assault 4th degree (Domestic Violence), Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct, Menacing, Violation of a Kentucky EPO/DVO, and Terroristic Threatening 3rd degree.

Lodged in the Russell Co. Detention Center.

• Tracy Huff, 46, Monticello – arrested Sunday afternoon by KSP for Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st degree (Opiates), Prescription Controlled Substance Not in Proper Container, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Failure to Produce Insurance Card.
• Austin Weller, 25, Columbia - arrested Saturday night by the ACSO for DUI, Possession of Marijuana, Reckless Driving, and 3 counts of Wanton Endangerment 2nd degree.
• Kelsey Allen, 41, Westmoreland, TN - arrested by KSP on Saturday night for Possession of Open Alcoholic Beverage Container in Motor Vehicle, DUI, and Failure to Wear Seatbelt.
• Preslie Anne Lawless, 24, Columbia – arrested by Columbia Police on Saturday for DUI and No Seatbelt
• Reginald O’Connor of Columbia - arrested by KSP on Saturday for Registered Sex Offender Public Playground Restrictions.

Lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

The start of school for Adair County Students is just a couple weeks away and according to Superintendent Dr Pamela Stephens classes will resume in the classroom... We discussed that and other action taken at last nights board meeting with Dr. Stephens... 

Deaths: We are sad to report 1 new death today from Pulaski. We have experienced a total of 41 deaths resulting in a 3.3% 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 9 cases in the hospital. We have had a total of 121 hospitalizations resulting in a 9.7% hospitalization rate among known cases. The latest state data shows that 62% of ICU beds and 24% of ventilator capacity are being utilized.

Released (Recovered) Cases: We released 18 cases today from isolation recovered). Released cases include: Adair: 1; Casey: 2; McCreary: 1; Pulaski: 8; Russell: 2; and, Taylor: 4. In all, we have released 75.1% of our total cases.

Total (Cumulative) Cases: The Lake Cumberland District has experienced a total of 1,251 cases since the onset of the outbreak.

Active (Current) Cases: Taking all things into account, this leaves us with 271 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 25 today: Adair: 8; Casey: 1; Green: 1; McCreary: 2; Pulaski: 7; Russell: 1; Taylor: 3; 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:

• Adair: A 1-year-old male who is hospitalized, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 54-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 73-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 77-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 44-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 17-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 18-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Adair: A 12-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Casey: A 51-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Green: A 70-year-old male who is self-isolated, under investigation
• McCreary: A 31-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• McCreary: A 33-year-old male who is self-isolated, asymptomatic
• Pulaski: A 17-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 55-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 52-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 45-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 44-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 26-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Pulaski: A 46-year-old female who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Russell: A 28-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic
• Taylor: A 19-year-old male who is self-isolated, still symptomatic

Jamestown city council met last night in special session and approved a purchase that will improve water quality in Russell and surrounding areas that get their water from Jamestown. 

Mayor Nick Shearer shared with WAVE NEWS details about the meeting... 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (August 6, 2020) –The first Kentucky State Police (KSP) “Cover the Cruiser” event is in the books and raised $16,206.16 to support Special Olympics of Kentucky (SOKY). 

KSP posts across the state parked their cruises at designated locations and encouraged the public to cover their cruisers with custom SOKY stickers. A minimum donation of $1 was requested to place a sticker on the cruiser, but Kentuckians donated more than the minimum. 

The 'Cover the Cruiser’ campaign was developed when the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run was canceled due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Each year, The Torch Run escorts the Special Olympics Flame of hope to kick off the Kentucky State Summer Games in Richmond. State Troopers, in conjunction with national law enforcement agencies throughout the U.S., participate to raise awareness and funding for Special Olympics programs. 

KSP Spokesman Sergeant Josh Lawson gave credit to the troopers who hosted the local 'Cover the Cruiser' events. "Even in the midst of a global pandemic our troopers stepped up and took ownership of this new program, adding it to their long list of community outreach activities," said Lawson. "Whether it was during torrential downpours or sweltering heat they did what was needed, as they always do, to demonstrate their service to the citizens of Kentucky." 

SOKY President Trish Mazzoni said the new campaign was a tremendous success. “We are deeply grateful to the Kentucky State Police, all of the Troopers who took part, our host locations and to everyone who donated," said Mazzoni.

"Thank you to KSP and to all of the law enforcement community that continues to be so deeply committed to the support of Special Olympics Kentucky Athletes.” 

The fundraiser developed into a friendly competition among Kentucky State Police posts*. For this inaugural event, the London Post took top honors with a total of $2,577.94 raised. Trooper Scottie Pennington organized the post fundraiser and battled heavy rain on the date of his event. ”To say that I am humbled by the support and generosity of our Laurel County Citizens is an understatement. Special Olympics of Kentucky holds a special place in my heart and it was an honor to assist them in this way." 

Special Olympics is the world’s largest program of sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The organization has been serving the needs of our athletes and their families since 1970 and welcomes 11,300 athletes in Kentucky. 

Photo Description: Trooper Scottie Pennington, KSP London Post accepting a donation from a young girl at the London Walmart. 

*Link to individual post level donation totals: http://kentuckystatepolice.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Cover-The-Cruiser-Donation-Results.pdf

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 6, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear on Thursday extended the state’s mandate requiring face coverings in some situations for another 30 days, citing its success and continued importance in flattening the curve of novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) cases in the commonwealth.

“By now, we all know someone that we care about, that we’re close to who is fighting this virus or has fought this virus. And as things progress, we will all probably know somebody who we have lost to this virus. This is going to be a month where I hope we turn things around, but based on July, we’re still going to see a lot of pain,” said Gov. Beshear. “So let’s make sure that we protect our mental and emotional health, stay as committed as we’ve always been to defeating this virus and step it up.”

The Governor also noted that on Monday, he will have additional guidance for Kentucky’s bars and restaurants.

“Expectations ought to be that capacity will increase again to 50% but there will be some changes. Especially in restaurants, we need people to still prioritize outdoor seating,” said Gov. Beshear. “Bars and restaurants are both going to be expected to have their last item served at 10 p.m. Then there is going to be an hour to let people eat and drink and ultimately go home.”

Case Information
As of 3:00pmCT on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020 Gov. Beshear said there were at least 33,254 coronavirus cases in Kentucky, 516 of which were newly reported Thursday. 12 of the newly reported cases were from children ages 5 and younger.

“We appear to not just be slowing, but we hope stopping any escalation that we’ve seen. It’s further evidence that wearing that facial covering is truly helping Kentucky in so many different ways – our people, our economy, our kids,” said Gov. Beshear. “So let’s keep it up. I believe that if we continue to do this, we can see even better numbers than what we have now.”

Unfortunately, Gov. Beshear reported 8 new deaths Thursday, raising the total to 760 Kentuckians lost to the virus.

The deaths reported Thursday include a 68-year-old woman from Bell County; an 86-year-old woman from Fayette County; a 94-year-old woman and a 94-year-old man from Franklin County; an 87-year-old man from Graves County; a 78-year-old woman from Jefferson County; a 68-year-old woman from Kenton County; and an 84-year-old woman from Ohio County.

“We’ve had major wars that we’ve gone through, at least in the last 40 years, where we’ve lost fewer Kentuckians than those who we’re going to lose to Covid-19,” said Gov. Beshear. “So let’s remember that just because we don’t see numbers like New York had or Florida is going to experience, that doesn’t mean this isn’t hitting Kentucky really hard.”

As of Thursday, there have been at least 674,490 coronavirus tests performed in Kentucky. The positivity rate currently stands at 5.51%, unchanged from yesterday. At least 8,523 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus.

“We know the deaths follow large numbers of cases and that we’re going to have days when it’s really hard to read that list. But I do feel hopeful. I do feel optimistic that if we do wear that facial covering that we have found a way to stop what was going to be devastating,” 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. To see all recent daily reports, click here.

Kentucky Infrastructure Authority Loans Update
Gov. Beshear announced today the approval of five project loans from the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority (KIA) totaling $7,230,900 for wastewater and sewer system improvements in the cities of Bardstown, Calvert City, Dawson Springs, Lewisburg and Whitesburg. For more information, read the full release.

“Every city and county in Kentucky should have reliable wastewater and sewer systems” said Gov. Beshear. “I’m glad these five cities can make necessary updates and provide more reliable service to their communities.”

State Fair Update
Today, the Governor announced that through consultation with public health officials, the Kentucky State Fair Board determined that limiting the fair to participants only was a necessary step to prevent a surge in COVID-19 cases.

The fair will feature wider aisle ways, reduced occupancy, increased hygiene accessibility and facial covering requirements. In an effort to manage crowds and social distancing, Lot A exhibits, Midway, concerts, entertainment and food vendors will not be featured in this year’s fair.

“By hosting a participant-only event, fair officials can more effectively enforce social distancing and facial covering requirements as well as gather the necessary information to perform contact tracing,” said Gov. Beshear. “I appreciate the board’s willingness to be agile, and their efforts to ensure that the health and safety of Kentuckians remains a top priority.”

The Kentucky State Fair will be held Aug. 20-30 at the Kentucky Expo Center in Louisville.

The World’s Championship Horse Show will be held without spectators and adhere to the U.S. Equestrian Federation COVID-19 guidelines.

“We believe the decision will allow Kentucky to continue our tradition of highlighting the state’s premiere agriculture and equestrian industry while prioritizing the health and safety of Kentuckians,” said Gov. Beshear.

“We are proud that we are having the fair, but obviously the health and safety of our community is uppermost in our minds and we’re delighted that we will at least be able to have the horse show and livestock contestants, the 4H-ers and the FFA kids,” said Steve Wilson, chair of the State Fair Board.

Agriculture is one of the state’s leading and most vital industries. There are nearly 76,000 farms in Kentucky, contributing about $45.6 billion to Kentucky’s economy each year.

For more information, visit the Kentucky State Fair’s website.

Corrections Update
Today, Secretary of the Executive Cabinet J. Michael Brown provided a Department of Corrections update.