The Center for Rural Development has selected Adair County students Justin Loy and Kelsay Breeding to attend the 2024 Rogers Scholars Youth Leadership Program.

Justin Loy is the son of Michael and Robin Loy of Columbia. Kelsay Breeding is the daughter of Steven and Lindsay Breeding of Greensburg. Justin and Kelsay, both sophomores at Adair County High School, will join 100 high school students from 45 Kentucky counties this summer for the 27th annual Rogers Scholars Program. This is a record number of students and the largest class to ever attend the program.

More details released on Columbia Man arrested Monday on Cocaine charges…

On Monday night, April 22, 2024, the Columbia Police Department located and took into custody a subject on Burkesville Street with an active warrant. During a search in the process of arrest, the subject was found to be in possession of suspected narcotics.

Brian White, 59, of Columbia, in addition to being taken into custody for an outstanding warrant, has also been charged with possession of a controlled substance cocaine.

Officer Elliot Smith was the arresting Officer. He was assisted by Sgt Justin Cross.

A Tennessee man was arrested Tuesday in Cumberland County on a Sexual Abuse charge with the Victim being under 12

William Rowe, age 38, of Lafayette, Tennessee, was arrested by Columbia Police Officer Burton, and charged with Sexual Abuse, 1st Degree, Victim under 12 Years of Age.

He was lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

HODGENVILLE, Ky. (April 23, 2024)- The Kentucky State Police (KSP) is investigating a fatal collision involving a Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) contract worker that occurred in LaRue Co. Tuesday morning.

On Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at approximately 9:00anET, Kentucky State Police Post 4 was requested by LaRue Co. Dispatch to investigate a fatal collision that occurred involving a van and a highway worker near the 3100 block of Old Elizabethtown Road (KY 210). The preliminary investigation reveals that Henry T. James, 74, of Louisville, was operating a 2000 GMC Savana eastbound on Old Elizabethtown Road when he entered a portion of the roadway that was reduced to one lane due to routine maintenance operations. James failed to observe Blake Barnes, 22, of Elizabethtown, a KYTC contracted worker, who was in the eastbound lane of the roadway flagging traffic before he was struck by James. 

Barnes was pronounced deceased at the scene by the LaRue Co. Coroner’s Office. James reported no injuries to officials. 

The affected portion of Old Elizabethtown Road was closed for several hours to allow troopers to reconstruct the collision. KSP was assisted at the scene by the LaRue Co. Sheriff’s Department, LaRue Co. Coroner, LaRue Co. Fire Department, and the LaRue Co. EMS. The collision remains under investigation by reconstructionist Det. Kevin Dreisbach. 

A Russell County Grand Jury has returned several indictments; one Russell Co. man indicted for rape and other sex abuse charges involving a minor under 12 years of age. Lisa Clark has details...

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 22, 2024) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced continued momentum within the state’s manufacturing sector as leaders at EPC-Columbia Inc., an industry-leading plastic injection molding company, will be expanding the company’s manufacturing operation in Lebanon with a $3.6 million investment creating 21 full-time, Kentucky jobs.

“The manufacturing sector is a staple of Kentucky’s booming economy,” said Gov. Beshear. “Having companies already established here in the commonwealth choosing to expand and grow their operations is a critical component of the state’s continued economic success. EPC-Columbia is providing quality job opportunities for Marion County and the surrounding community, and I congratulate the company on this exciting next step.”

The expansion project will see the company add 40,000 square feet to its manufacturing facility in Marion County, bringing its total operating space to nearly 300,000 square feet. The additional room will allow for increased manufacturing operations, office space and equipment to meet growing customer demand. The investment will add 21 full-time jobs, bringing the company’s total Kentucky employment to 430.

“We are extremely excited to be expanding our operations and continue working within the Marion County community,” said Reza Kargarzadeh, president of EPC-Columbia. “I want to thank everyone who made this project possible, including the hard-working, dedicated employees of EPC-Columbia, local officials and the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. We are thrilled to enter this next chapter as a company and look forward to continuing to provide quality products and services to our customers around the world.”

Founded in 1994, EPC is an industry leader in plastic injection molded products, with services that include injection molding, two-shot injection molding, vacuum forming, cast skin, urethane foaming and painting. EPC serves major industries that include automotive, commercial and consumer appliance, aerospace, off-road heavy equipment, agriculture and forestry, scientific and medical sectors. Today, the company has 560 injection molding machines ranging from 30 to 3,300 tons and 16 manufacturing facilities. EPC operates in Alabama, Florida, Iowa, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, South Carolina, Canada and Mexico.

Marion County Judge/Executive David Daugherty looks forward to celebrating this exciting opportunity for EPC and the community: “We are thrilled about the additional employment opportunities this expansion project will bring to Marion County. We appreciate EPC’s vision for continued growth in our community and look forward to celebrating this milestone with the company.”

Lebanon Mayor Gary Crenshaw highlighted the economic impact the expansion will bring to the area: “EPC’s expansion is another addition to the economic engine that continues to thrive in Marion County. The additional investment in capital and jobs add to the vibrant progressive vision we project as a community.”

Brooklyn Leep, Marion County economic development director, noted the continued support and commitment by EPC within the community: “We welcome this exciting news for our community as EPC expands its operations, bringing new opportunities and economic growth to our community. We appreciate their continued investment and commitment to Marion County.”

EPC’s investment and job creation build on the best four-year period for economic growth in state history.

Since the beginning of his administration, Gov. Beshear has announced more than 1,000 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling over $30.6 billion in announced investments, creating more than 52,500 jobs. This is the highest investment figure secured during the tenure of any governor in the commonwealth’s history.

The robust job creation has been accompanied by rising wages across the commonwealth. The average incentivized hourly wage in 2022 and 2023 topped $26 in consecutive years for the first time.

Gov. Beshear has announced some of the largest economic development projects in state history, which have solidified Kentucky as the electric vehicle battery production capital of the United States: Ford Motor Co. and SK On’s transformative $5.8 billion, 5,000-job BlueOval SK Battery Park in Hardin County; AESC’s $2 billion, 2,000-job gigafactory project in Warren County; Toyota’s $1.3 billion investment in Scott County; and INFAC North America’s $53 million investment in Taylor County, among others.

The Governor’s administration also secured the largest General Fund budget surplus and Rainy Day Fund, as well as the most jobs filled in state history. Last year, Kentucky set the record for the longest period with the lowest unemployment rates in state history.

Kentucky also secured rating increases from major credit rating agencies Fitch Ratings and S&P Global Ratings, and Moody’s Investors Service upgraded Kentucky’s credit outlook from stable to positive.

In March, Site Selection magazine ranked Kentucky third nationally and first in the South Central economic development projects per capita in its 2023 Governor’s Cup rankings. Previously, Site Selection placed Kentucky first in the South Central region and top 5 nationally in its 2023 Prosperity Cup ranking, which recognizes state-level economic development agencies for their success in landing capital investment projects.

Gov. Beshear announced a “Supply Kentucky” initiative with the goal of boosting job growth, reducing costs and providing more security in the supply chains of our Kentucky companies.

To encourage investment and job growth in the community, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) preliminarily approved a 15-year incentive agreement with the company under the Kentucky Business Investment program in March. The performance-based agreement can provide up to $350,000 in tax incentives based on the company’s investment of at least $1 million and annual targets of:

• Creation and maintenance of 21 Kentucky-resident, full-time jobs across 15 years; and
• Paying an average hourly wage of $20.42, including benefits across those jobs.

By meeting its annual targets over the agreement term, the company can be eligible to keep a portion of the new tax revenue it generates. The company may claim eligible incentives against its income tax liability and/or wage assessments.

In addition, EPC-Columbia can receive resources from Kentucky’s workforce service providers. Those include no-cost recruitment and job placement services, reduced-cost customized training and job-training incentives.

For more information on EPC-Columbia, visit epcmfg.com.

A detailed community profile for Marion County can be viewed here.

Information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts and programs is available at CED.ky.gov. Fans of the Cabinet for Economic Development can also join the discussion at facebook.com/CEDkygov, on Twitter @CEDkygov, Instagram @CEDkygov and LinkedIn.

Banners will start being hung in mid-May in honor of Veterans in Columbia/Adair County. The dedication service for the banners will be held during Memorial week.

Veterans are from the Vietnam War, Korean War, World War I, World War II, and Active Duty:

• Phillip Gaskins   
• Derek Cundiff    
• Randall Jones    
• Joe Payne          
• Leland Grant     
• Wallace Alexander 
• Bobby Kimbler   
• Bernard Dunn   
• Sammy Hughes  
• Charlie Morrison 
• James Abell         
• John Burr             
• Paul Smith          
• Michael Callison      
• Orvis Grider          
• Travis Giles            
• Vince Giles            
• Ronald Burton       
• Brad Scholl             
• Joe Spires               
• Tommy Corbin       
• C.W. Grant             
• Bernard Janes        
• William Coy Turner  
• Joe Hare                       
• Ronnie Holt                 
• Russell Arnold               
• Walter Gene Hoots    
• Shane Lee Pollard           
• Harvey Dean Nash          
• William E. (Tootie) Corbin 
• William J. Burton               
• Ray G. Willis                      
• Charles Caldwell               
• Ronald Edwards                
• Eldridge Bragg                  
• James King                         
• Pamela King                      
• Leon Huff                           
• Benjamin Hadley             
• Sammy King                      
• Edwin Downey                
• Billy Fletcher                    
• Noel Hayes                      
• Hindman Loy                    
• John William Guillion       
• William O. Pendleton       
• Billy Sullivan                       
• Edward Grider                   
• Vernon Williams                
• William F. Keys                  
• Caleb Arnold                      
• Ronald Goetz                     
• Arlin Wheet                       
• George Claywell               
• Jordan Baker                      
• James Smallwood               
• John D. Lowe III                   
• William Phelps                      
• Herman Chelf                      
• William Feese                      
• Lucian Edwards                   
• Raymond Curry
• Francis McGowan
• Stanley Jones
• Clay Thomas Moore
• Wilburn Cheatham
• Ronald Cheatham
• Garold Russell
• James Gaskins
• Tom Andrew
• Willie Ray Foster
• Stevie Foster Graves Sr.
• Larry D. Huckaby
• Walter Ray Graves
• Ples T. Grimsley
• Ray Partin
• Larry T. Antle
• Danny D. Kearney
• Kenneth Bryant
• Robert Gossett
• Clifton Hadley
• Phillip Keltner
• Jimmie Dale Cox
• John W. Arnold
• William Billy Spoon
• Leonard Price Cheatham
• Felton Fudge
• James Wolford Grant
• Tommy Lee Scott
• Radius Brown
• Charles L. Cole
• Clay Jones
• Thomas A. Turner and
• Leslie Land

On Monday night, April 22, 2024, CPD Officer Elliot Smith located and took a subject into custody with an active warrant on Burkesville Street. During the process of arrest, the subject was found to be in possession of suspected narcotics.

In addition to the outstanding warrant, 59-year-old Brian White of Columbia was also charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance (Cocaine). He was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

Officer Smith was assisted by CPD Sgt Justin Cross.

Jeffrey Kerr, 28, of Dunnville, KY was arrested by KSP Trooper Harper on Monday night. Kerr was charged with Failure to Wear Seat Belt, No Registration Receipt, No Registration Plates, Failure to Produce Insurance Card, Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance, Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1st Degree, 1st Offense (Meth), Possession of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia - Buy/Possession, and Operating Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance. He was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Here's the 2024 Russell County Fair schedule of events...

The Jamestown boil water advisory includes all of Wesley Circle off of Harbor Springs Road. Boil all water used for drinking and cooking purposes for at least 3 minutes.

Tyler McKinney was sworn in today as a Police Officer for the City of Columbia by Mayor Pamela Hoots. He is scheduled to attend the Police Academy.

Congratulations to Officer McKinney from 92.7 the Wave!

CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. (April 22, 2024) – On April 21, 2024 at approximately 4:12 P.M. EST, Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 Troopers responded to a two-vehicle injury collision on KY 55 in Taylor County.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Allen Glen Yates, age 60 of Columbia, was traveling north on KY 55 in a 2002 Ford F-150. Mr. Yates crossed the centerline of the roadway and entered into the southbound lane of KY 55, colliding in a head-on manner with a 2021 Nissan Rogue traveling south on KY 55. The Nissan Rogue was operated by Tracy York-Murrell, age 39 of Columbia.

Ms. York-Murrell was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Taylor County Coroner. A passenger in Ms. York-Murrell’s vehicle, Cameron Murrell, age 33 of Columbia, was transported to the University of Louisville Hospital for treatment of severe but non-life-threatening injuries. Mr. Yates was also transported to the University of Louisville Hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. A passenger in Mr. Yates’ vehicle, Karen Bishop, age 67 of Columbia, was transported to the University of Louisville for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

KSP Post 15 Troopers were assisted at the scene by the Taylor County Sheriff's Office, the Campbellsville Police Department, the Campbellsville Fire Department, Taylor County Fire and EMS, Taylor County Rescue, the Taylor County Coroner’s Office, and the Kentucky State Highway Department. The collision remains under investigation by Senior Trooper Brandon Roark.

According to the newly released ag census, the economic impact of agriculture boomed in 2022, reaching over $100 million in market value of products sold compared to just $69 million in 2017. Livestock, including poultry, beef, and dairy, increased by $32 million, while grain crops increased by about $4 million.

While the market value of agriculture products increased, both farmland acres and the number of farms decreased by 17% and 7%, respectively. Adair County ranked 2nd in Kentucky for milk sales and 9th for beef sales.

This story from our friends at columbiamagazine.com.

Rachael Grimsley, age 21, was arrested by Officer Williams of the Columbia Police Department on Sunday afternoon on charges of Speeding 23 mph Over Limit and Operating on a Suspended or Revoked Operator License. She was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

Dorothy Taylor, 39, of Columbia was arrested by Officer Bates of the Columbia Police Department on Sunday night, on charges of Non-Payment of Court Costs, Fees or Fines and Resisting Arrest. She was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

The fatal accident occurred on Hwy 55 (between Columbia and Campbellsville) this afternoon (Sunday). An Adair County woman died as the result of the accident. Her husband was flown to the University of Louisville Hospital for treatment.
 

No other details are available at this time as we are awaiting the official police report.
 

Legislative activities culminated on April 15 outside the Kentucky State Capitol with the closure of the 60-day budget session, a significant event marked by the phrase “sine die,” or Latin for “without day,” indicating the session's conclusion without a set date for the next one. Over 210 bills progressed through the Senate during the last four months and numerous resolutions were adopted, addressing various critical issues for Kentucky's residents.

One significant action included the Senate's vote of 36-1 to appoint Dr. Robbie Fletcher as the new education commissioner for Kentucky. Dr. Fletcher, who was previously the superintendent of Lawrence County Schools and has served in roles ranging from classroom teacher to principal, was selected by the Kentucky Board of Education and examined by the Senate Education Committee last week as part of a unique and rigorous process required by Senate Bill (SB)107 enacted the previous year. He becomes the first commissioner selected through this process fitting for the vital position he will officially assume on July 1.

Additionally, the Senate moved forward with legislation dubbed the “Momnibus” bill, a comprehensive measure aimed at enhancing maternal health. Originally part of House Bill (HB) 10, this bill was incorporated into SB 74 on the last session day. It introduces a special enrollment period for pregnant women who previously weren't recognized for insurance under qualifying life events, a crucial provision among others. These include establishing the “Kentucky Lifeline for Moms” and expanding access to psychiatric services and breastfeeding support. The bill passed the Senate with a vote of 29-5 and is now on the Governor’s desk for his signature approval.

The legislative session saw the Governor veto 19 bills and one concurrent resolution, with the General Assembly overriding most of these vetoes subsequently. Notable bills include SB 1, creating an endowed research fund similar to North Carolina's Research Triangle, and SB 2, which enhances school safety by potentially employing veterans and former police officers as school guardians.

Other legislative highlights include:

• SB 11 improves the notification process for schools when a student is charged with serious offenses.
• SB 16 limits drone operations over food production sites.
• SB 20 targets youth gun violence by escalating serious cases to circuit court.
• SB 45 established the Kentucky Ashanti Alert System to help locate missing adults.
• SB 70, known as the Donor Intent Act, enhances transparency in charitable contributions.
• SB 127 supports the aerospace industry through scholarships and a new advisory committee.
• SB 140 offers amnesty for mistakenly awarded unemployment benefits during the pandemic.
• SB 265 addresses teacher shortages via the Option 7 certification process.

House Bills also saw significant developments, including HB 6, which details the biennial executive branch budget with substantial allocations for education and safety, and HB 3, which establishes a comprehensive approach to combat human trafficking. HB 829 updates Kentucky's medicinal cannabis program to allow earlier licensing opportunities from July onwards while maintaining local control over its implementation. The Senate approved this bill 26-12.

As these legislative measures move forward, they reflect Kentucky's multifaceted approach to addressing statewide issues ranging from education and health care to infrastructure and public safety, poised to impact various aspects of life in Kentucky. The legislative interim begins in June, setting the stage for further policy development and refinement.

If you would like to learn more about any legislation passed this session, visit legislature.ky.gov and KYSenateRepublicans.com for news releases from the Senate Majority Caucus.

It remains my great privilege to represent you in Frankfort. Please contact my office if I can assist you by emailing me at max.wise@lrc.ky.gov or calling my office toll-free at 1-800-372-7181.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 19, 2024) – The Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corp. (KAFC) approved $2,893,877 for 18 agricultural loans for projects across the Commonwealth at its monthly board meeting.

Agricultural Infrastructure Loan Program (AILP)    

Eight Agricultural Infrastructure loans totaling $1,426,167 were approved. Loan recipients were in Adair ($177,000 and $250,000), Calloway ($250,000), Hart ($71,667), Henry ($250,000), Meade ($65,000), and Taylor ($112,500 and $250,000) counties. KAFC participates with lenders to provide financing to producers making capital expenditures for agricultural projects through the AILP. Eligible projects include permanent farm structures with attached equipment that improves the profitability of farming operations. Producers may be eligible for up to $150,000 not to exceed 50 percent of the project.

Beginning Farmer Loan Program (BFLP)

Eight Beginning Farmer loans totaling up to $1,167,710 were approved. Loan recipients were in Adair ($142,860), Casey ($82,500), Edmonson ($106,250), Green ($150,000), Harrison ($100,000), LaRue ($110,000), McLean ($226,100), and Mercer ($250,000) counties. The BFLP is designed to assist individuals with some farming experience who desire to develop, expand, or buy into a farming operation. Beginning farmers may qualify for financing to purchase livestock, equipment, or agriculture facilities; to secure permanent working capital; for the purchase of farm real estate; or to invest in a partnership or LLC.

Diversification through Entrepreneurship in Agribusiness Program (DEALP)

Two Diversification through Entrepreneurship in Agribusiness loans totaling $300,000 were approved. Loan recipients were in Jefferson ($200,000) and Marion ($100,000) counties. DEALP is designed to assist agri-entrepreneurs with the purchase, establishment or expansion of a business that sells agricultural products or services to farmers or consumers.

For more information on the programs offered by the KAFC, contact Bill McCloskey at Kentucky Office of Agricultural Policy at (502) 382-6093 or email kafc@ky.gov.

Mowing cycles are underway and illegally placed items along state maintained right of way areas are being removed.  Residents, business operators and property owners along US and KY routes are reminded no signage is allowed on right of way other than official highway signs and items approved through a permit process. Particularly, with yard sales and property sales commonly taking place in spring along with the May Primary, related signs must be placed beyond right of way limits. Crews will not mow around illegally placed items. They will be removed. Items placed on right of way areas create significant delays for mowing crews and are potential hazards for mowing operators and passing motorists. They can create additional hazards by blocking sight distance or distracting drivers, particularly at intersections. All sale activities including parking should be off right of way limits. 

It is also illegal to attach items such as flyers, posters, balloons or streamers to stop signs, highway markers or any other road sign or utility pole. Illegal placement on utility poles presents additional obstacles and potential dangers for utility crew workers.

Removed items will be taken to each county’s KYTC maintenance facility and held for a short period of time. Unclaimed materials will be trashed or recycled.

Members Honored include: 

• Chief Jeff Landers 40 years
• Major Junior Malone 40 years
• Major Phillip Anderson 25 years
• Billy Bunch 15 years 
• Major Michael Clark 10 years 

The first annual Student Exhibition of Learning will be held from 5pmCT to 7pmCT on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, in the Gym at Adair County High School, 526 Indian Dr, Columbia, KY. Students, families, and community members are invited to come celebrate K-12 student learning.

There will be Family Fun Basket door prizes, student snowcones & cotton candy with FRYSC, plus Kiss the Pig Winners from each school.

Enjoy supper from ACHS Track, with chili & other soups, grilled cheese, chips, dessert, and a drink for just $8 per person.

Kentucky State Police (KSP) is partnering with Special Olympics Kentucky to 'Cover the Cruiser' April 19-26, 2024 as Team Kentucky raises funds for the summer games. They will be at Doc's Market at 2939 Campbellsville Rd., Columbia from 10amCT to 1pmCT on Friday, April 19, 2024.

The two big items on the agenda for Thursday evenings Jamestown City Council meeting were recognizing members of the Jamestown Fire Department and sidewalk work in the city. Mayor Regena Hinton discussed both items with WAVE NEWS... 

Two events are coming up the next 2 weekends on the Jamestown Square: the Market Place and Movie Night in Beck Park...

(In a note from Superintendent Ford)

I am thrilled to announce that after an extensive search process, I have appointed a new principal who will be joining our school community. It is with great pleasure that I introduce Mr. Zach Smith.  A lifelong resident of Russell County, Mr. Smith is excited to take the helm as Jamestown Elementary School’s principal.  He is married to Kelsey, has one daughter, Logan Elyse and he and his wife are expecting their 2nd child, River Wayne, in July. 

Mr. Smith comes to us after teaching middle grades social studies at Northern Middle School in Pulaski County and has been serving as School Counselor at Pulaski Elementary School in Pulaski County for the past five years.    His dedication to education, passion for student success, and commitment to fostering a positive school culture make him an excellent fit for Jamestown Elementary School.

As we welcome Mr. Zach Smith to our school, I am confident that his leadership will bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a renewed sense of enthusiasm to Jamestown. I encourage each of you to extend a warm welcome and offer your support as Mr. Smith transitions into his new role.

I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Jamestown Elementary School council for their hard work and dedication throughout the selection process. Their efforts have ensured that we have found an outstanding leader who will guide Jamestown to great heights. 

In closing, please join me in extending a warm welcome to Mr. Smith. Together, let us embrace this new chapter in our school's journey and work collaboratively to continue providing an exceptional educational experience for our students.

Thank you!

Michael A. Ford, Superintendent
Russell County Schools