FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 30, 2022) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear updated Kentuckians on economic development, grants for riverports, transportation funding to support economic development, the groundbreaking of Norton Healthcare Goodwill Opportunity Campus, Western Kentucky tornado recovery and COVID-19. He also named Dr. Aaron Thompson and the Thompson Scholars Program as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

Economic Development Momentum Continues to Grow
Today, Gov. Beshear highlighted two economic development projects in the commonwealth, totaling over $106 million in investment, which will create over 100 jobs.

Yesterday, Gov. Beshear joined officials in Shelby County and leaders from Wieland North America to celebrate the groundbreaking for a new $100 million copper and copper-alloy recycling facility that will create up to 75 quality jobs for local residents with additional job creation planned in the future.

Today, the Governor announced HHO Carbon Clean Systems LLC will locate its first Kentucky operation in McCracken County, with a $6.65 million investment creating 35 full-time jobs in the coming years.

“Just look at where we are. We set the lowest unemployment rate in Kentucky’s history in back-to-back months. We have the fewest Kentuckians on unemployment in the last 21 years,” said Gov. Beshear. “Yes, our present is challenging with everything we are facing, from a continued pandemic, to inflation, to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, but our tomorrow is so exciting.”

Groundbreaking for Opportunity Campus in West Louisville
Gov. Beshear joined state and local official as well as leaders of Goodwill Industries of Kentucky and Norton Healthcare to break ground on a $100 million Opportunity Campus for West Louisville. Residents of West Louisville will have access to career and social services, run by Goodwill Industries. Norton Healthcare will be building a $70 million comprehensive health care center, which will be the first hospital in this community in more than 100 years. The Opportunity Campus will also include offices for other key partners providing services.

The project is expected to create more than 200 jobs in West Louisville with an average annual wage of $59,000. Another 200 jobs are being created during the building phase. This campus also expects to serve 50,000 people every year with programs and services that will enhance their lives and careers. The full economic impact from the campus is expected to be $18.7 million each year by helping place more than 600 job-seekers into full-time employment.

Infrastructure Investments 
Today, the Governor announced $499,000 in grants for eight projects at four of Kentucky’s riverports, including Eddyville, Hickman, Owensboro and Paducah. These grants will help riverport authority meet a range of needs for both capacity and operations.

In continuing his commitment to improving local roadways, Gov. Beshear announced more than $1.8 million in discretionary transportation funding to help four local governments make roadway repairs and improvements that will promote local economic development.

“Kentuckians deserve to have safe roads to travel on when they are taking their families to and from work, school and places of worship,” said Gov. Beshear. “Our local leaders know where we can make the most impact, so we are continuing to prioritize these projects to enhance safety in our communities, while also lifting up our local economies for future investment.”

Additional SAFE Funds for Tornado Recovery
Gov. Beshear announced a seventh round of awards from the West Kentucky State Aid Funding for Emergencies (SAFE) fund. The assistance announced today will go to two eligible Western Kentucky counties to help it the cost of restoration and recovery from the devastating December 2021 tornadoes.

The nearly $800,000 in funding announced today will cover expenses for more than $134,000 of FEMA-ineligible debris removal in Taylor County and more than $655,000 for the purchase of heavy equipment to facilitate debris removal in Hopkins County.

The Governor recommended the appropriation for the SAFE fund, and the 2022 General Assembly supported the aid through Senate Bill 150. The Kentucky Division of Emergency Management continues to receive additional applications for SAFE funding, which are being carefully reviewed to ensure the funds are used to their maximum benefit.

COVID-19 Update
Gov. Beshear said the state is experiencing a slight plateau, with 9,579 cases announced from June 21 through June 27. The positivity rate is also experiencing a plateau at 13.36% on June 26. Overall hospitalizations in Kentucky, as well as the number of patients in the ICU and on a ventilator, have moderately increased, but this increase is not expected to continue.

Team Kentucky All-Stars
On Monday, Gov. Beshear attended the annual Shape America Conference where he presented an award named after his aunt, Mary Ann Miller. The Governor recognized the Mary Ann Miller Thrive Award winners, the Thompson Scholars Program and the program’s namesake, the president of Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, Dr. Aaron Thompson, as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

“My aunt was a fierce and tireless champion for Kentucky’s young people, particularly for making sure they had access to quality education and health care,” said Gov. Beshear. “I know she would have been proud to see the Thompson Scholars Program and Dr. Aaron Thompson awarded for their contributions to our commonwealth and our students.”

The Thompson Scholars Program offers pre-K through 12^th-grade students nutritious meals, tutoring instruction in leadership development, communication skills, local and cultural history, STEAM programming, college prep, field trips and civic engagement. Just under a year after opening its doors, Thompson Scholars is now serving about 100 students.

NASHVILLE, Tenn., June 30, 2022 —Independence Day is just ahead, and your plans might include fireworks displays, a backyard picnic, or perhaps fun at the beach. The American Red Cross offers these tips so you can enjoy a fun-packed, safe holiday.

“We’re all looking forward to the 4^th of July holiday. It’s a time for fun with friends and family,” said Joel Sullivan, regional executive officer for the American Red Cross Tennessee Region. “We here at the Red Cross want everyone to enjoy their celebration and to be safe.”

FIREWORKS SAFETY

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals. Stay at least 500 feet away from the show. Many states outlaw most fireworks. Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks. If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:

1. Never give fireworks to small children, and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
2. Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
3. Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
4. Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."
5. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.

PICNIC SAFETY

1. Wash your hands before preparing the food.
2. Don’t leave food out in the hot sun. Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice or freezer gel packs.
3. If you are going to cook on the grill, never grill indoors. Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches or anything that could catch fire.
4. Always supervise the grill when in use. Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited. Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.
5. Make sure everyone, including pets, stays away from the grill.

BEACH SAFETY

Watch the weather and get out of the water at the first sign of lightning or the rumble of thunder. Stay indoors and away from water for 30 minutes after the last lightning flashes or thunder roars.

Plan ahead for aquatic activities:

1. Swim only at a beach with a lifeguard, within the designated swimming area. Obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards and ask them about local conditions.
2. Always designate a “water watcher” whose sole responsibility is to keep a close eye and constant attention on everyone in and around the water until the next water watcher takes over.
3. Children, inexperienced swimmers, and all boaters should wear properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.
4. Protect your neck – don’t dive in headfirst. Walk carefully into open waters. Watch out for and avoid aquatic life.
5. If you are caught in a rip current, stay calm and don’t fight it. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current. Then, turn and swim to shore. If you can't swim to shore, float or tread water until you are free of the rip current and then head toward shore. Draw attention to yourself by waving and calling for help. 

Download the free Red Cross First Aid and Swim apps for instant access to safety tips.

Jared Lloyd, 44, of Jamestown, KY was arrested by Officer Begley with the Jamestown Police Department just after 11pm on Wednesday night. Lloyd was charged with Sodomy, 1^st Degree – Incapable of Consent – Physically Helpless, Rape, 1^st Degree – Domestic Violence, Persistent Felony Offender, Non-Payment of Court Cost, Fees or Fines and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Amy Wells, 43, of Russell Springs, KY was taken into custody Kentucky State Police on Wednesday evening and charged with Criminal Trespassing 3^rd Degree.

Both were lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Brittany Horseman, age 28, of Lexington, was arrested by Deputy Tweedy with the Adair County Sheriff’s Officer at 9 p.m. last night. Horseman was charged with Resisting Arrest, Theft By Unlawful Taking or Disposition Shoplifting, Alcohol Intoxication in a Public Place (1^st and 2^nd Offense), Fleeing or Evading Police 1^st Degree (On Foot). Horseman was lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

On Wednesday, June 22, 2022 the Columbia area HIDTA Drug Task Force executed a search warrant following an ongoing investigation in Metcalfe County. Investigators located a large quantity of methamphetamine, marijuana, and prescription pills. Also, a large quantity of ammunition, a 9mm hand gun, and a large quantity of US currency was located. 

Justin Neal and Cory Jessie, both of Edmonton, KY were charged with trafficking in a controlled substance (methamphetamine) greater than 2 grams. Neal and Cory were lodged in the Barren County Detention Center. 

Over the past few days, Adair County Judge Executive Gale Cowan, Adair County Emergency Management Director, County District and City Fire Departments have been monitoring the abnormally dry conditions.  

At this time we are reluctant to impose a county wide burn ban.  Counties to our north (Taylor and Green) are listed as being in moderate drought conditions and Adair County is listed as being abnormally dry.  Rain and storms are forecasted to begin Friday July 1st and continue until Tuesday, July 5th with a daily chance of 40-60%.  

If this forecasted moisture develops and fire reports remain low we hope that we can forgo an open burning ban.

This advisory serves as notice of increased fire risk in Adair County and that an increase of drought status, uncontrolled burns or fires may force implementation of a county wide burn ban.  

Please use caution if you must burn or use fireworks during this abnormally dry time.  

Drought status is shown in this link:

https://www.drought.gov/states/kentucky/county/adair 

Mike Keltner 

Director,

Adair Co. Emergency Management

107 N High Street

Columbia, KY 42728

Mobile (270) 634-4555

Emergency (270) 384-6464

mike.keltner@yahoo.com

The Kentucky State Police, London Post is investigating a fatal collision that occurred at the intersection of KY 90 and KY HWY 1546 in the Monticello area of Wayne County at approximately 1:53 pm Tuesday, June 28, 2022.

The initial investigation indicates that a 2001 Yamaha motorcycle operated by Michael W. McClellan, 28 years old of Monticello, KY, was traveling south on KY 90 at a high rate of speed when he struck a 2006 Chevrolet Pickup operated by Delmar G. Brumley age 81 of Monticello, and passenger Wendell R.  Kelsay age 71 of Monticello. Mr. Delmar and his passenger Kelsay was airlifted to the UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital in Lexington for life threating injuries. Mr. McClellan sustained fatal injuries in the collision and was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Wayne County Coroner’s office.

 An autopsy is scheduled for Mr. McClellan in Louisville at the state medical office.

The ongoing investigation is being conducted by KSP Post 11 Trooper Dackery Larkey, He was assisted at the scene by Kentucky State Police personnel, Wayne County Constable, Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Monticello Fire Department, AirEvac 79 and the Wayne County Coroner’s Office.

The Russell Springs Police Department is asking for the public's assistance...the trailer pictured below was taken sometime between Friday (24th) night and early Saturday (25th) morning. If anyone has any information as far as the whereabouts or people involved in this theft, please call RSPD at 270-866-3636 or Russell County Dispatch at 270-343-6600.

Please feel free to share and thank you in advance!

Jason Taylor, age 32, of Parksville Kentucky, was arrested by Deputy Tweedy with the Adair County Sheriff’s Office around 10:30 last night. Taylor was charged with Operating Motor Vehicle Under Influence of Alcohol – 1^st, Leaving the Scene of Accident-Failure to Render Air or Assistance, Resisting Arrest and Disorderly Conduct, 2^nd Degree.

Taylor was lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

The Columbia Police Department responded to a 2-vehicle accident with injuries on Saturday evening, June 28, 2022 near the intersection of Burksville Street and Dohoney Trace. 

1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
2. DISBURSEMENTS
3. LINE TO LINE BUDGET TRANSFERS
4. ADJOURN

Twelve Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) equipment operators will advance to represent Kentucky at the Southeastern Regional Equipment Operator’s Safety and Training Conference after earning high marks in the state-level competition hosted last Tuesday and Wednesday in Lexington.

The annual State Equipment Operators’ Safety and Training Conference, otherwise known as the Statewide Equipment Roadeo, is a respected event featuring the top two performers from six obstacle course competitions. The contestants were either the first or second-place winner in the district competition held in each of KYTC’s Department of Highways districts.

“Our crews operate heavy equipment that requires precision skills to perform critical maintenance activities, like plowing snow or hauling materials,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “The 16^th annual event is an important safety training exercise to properly handle potentially hazardous equipment and machinery, and it’s an impressive showcase of our front-line crews’ mastery of the trade.”

Operators competed in six courses testing accuracy, agility and speed while operating heavy equipment like graders, backhoes, snow plows, tractors, and lowboys. During the backhoe competition, operators’ pick up five golf balls, one at a time, from a 4-by-8 foot box of sand with a spoon-like attachment on the backhoe bucket and drop them in narrow cylinders with openings as small as three inches.

The regional competition will be held in Baton Rouge, Louisiana in September 2022. First and second place winners from each event are invited to compete.

State Competition Courses and Winners:

Tractor Truck with Lowboy Trailer

1st Place- Mathew Kirby, Highway District 10

2nd Place- Lewis Barrett, Highway District 7

3rd Place- Charlie Barnes, Highway District 10

Tandem Axle Dump Truck

1st Place- Darren Jackson, Highway District 7

2nd Place- Dustin Phillips, Highway District 4

3rd Place- Joshua Madden, Highway District 11

Single Axle Dump Truck

1st Place- Edward Howard, Highway District 2

2nd Place- Stanley Heisle, Highway District 7

3rd Place- Frederick Hylton, Highway District 10

Tractor with Mower

1st Place- Travis Padgett, Highway District 9

2nd Place- Adam Matherly, Highway District 8

3rd Place- Todd Plank, Highway District 9

Backhoe

1st Place- Joe Sharp, Highway District 8

2nd Place- Jeremiah Meyers, Highway District 9

3rd Place- Barry Johnson, Highway District 8

 Motor Grader

1st Place- Adam Matherly, Highway District 8

2nd Place- Brandon Slaven, Highway District 8

3rd Place- Hunter Sneed, Highway District 8

Kendra Scott-Wright, age 31, of Burkesville was arrested by Deputy Daniels with the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, just before 1 a.m. this morning. She was charged with Driving on a DUI Suspended License – 1^st Offense, Ignition Interlock Driver License – Use Violation, Possession of Open Alcoholic Beverage Container in Motor Vehicle Prohibited, Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition All Others and Wanton Endangerment 2^nd Degree.

• Charles Curnutte, 54, of Jamestown - Burglary 2nd degree, Criminal mischief, Public Intoxication, and Possession of Burglar's Tools.
• Richard Rodgers, 42, of Russell Springs and Jessica Helm, 29, of Jamestown - Trafficking in Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Rodgers was also indicted for Possession of a Handgun by a Convicted Felon and Persistent Felony Offender.
• David B. Johnson, 35, of Russell Springs - Speeding, Operating on a Suspended or Revoked License, Poss of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia, Theft of Identity, Wanton Endangerment, Failure to Notify DOT of Change of Address, Failure to Produce Insurance Card, and Persistent Felony Offender.
• Ronald Litteral, 32, of Russell Springs - Failure to Wear Seat-belt, Obstructed Windshield, Failure to Produce Insurance Card, Possession of Marijuana and Drug Paraphernalia, Trafficking in Methamphetamine, and Persistent Felony Offender.
• Mistie Collins, 44, of Russell Springs - Trafficking in Methamphetamine and Persistent Felony Offender.
• Ormit Kelsey, 32, of Russell Springs - Strangulation, 4th degree Assault, Unlawful Imprisonment, 2 counts of Resisting Arrest, Wanton Endangerment, Receiving Stolen Property, 3rd degree Assault, and Menacing.
• Stanley Luttrell, 67, of Russell Springs, Jeffrey Price, 44, of Dunnville, Joseph Yeadon, 67, & Harold G. Powell, 66, of Jamestown, Daniel Burton, 55, of Columbia, and Rejeshkum Patel, 40, of New Jersey - Promoting Gambling by setting up a gambling device.
• Jared Lloyd, 44, of Jamestown - Rape 1st degree, Sodomy, and Persistent Felony Offender.
• Demetrias Matherly, 28, of Bethelridge, KY - Strangulation, Assault 4th degree, Wanton Endangerment and Persistent Felony Offender.
• Alicia Ropp, 24, of Russell Springs - Bail Jumping.
• Jessica French, 30, of Russell Springs - Fraud or False Statement in Obtaining Benefits over $1,000 (2 counts).
• Georgianna Richardson, 67, of Jamestown - Failure to Illuminate Head Lamps, No Operator's License, Failure to Notify DOT of Change of Address, Possession of a Controlled Substance Not in Proper Container, Trafficking in Hydrocodone, and DUI.
• Jack Lusk, 34, of Jamestown - Theft by Unlawful Taking ($1,000 or more) and Persistent Felony Offender.
• Jeremy Vanfleet, 39, of Russell Springs - Bail Jumping & Persistent Felony Offender.
• Latasha Popplewell, 34, of Russell Springs - Bail Jumping & Persistent Felony Offender.
• Shane Grant, 49, of Jamestown - Bail Jumping.

Indictments are legal accusations and do not determine guilt or innocence.

Billy Burton, age 32, of Columbia, was arrested by Deputy Tweedy of the Adair County Sheriff’s Office just before 5:30 this morning. Burton was charged with Possession of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession, Assault, 4^th Degree (No Visible Injury) and Possession of Controlled Substance, 2^nd Degree – Anabolic Steroid.

Dustin Alexander, age 41, of Scottsville, was arrested by Trooper Poole of the Kentucky State Police, just after 1 a.m. this morning in Cumberland County. Alexander was charged with Failure to Wear Seat Belts, Failure to Dim Headlights, Failure to or Improper Signal, Improper Turning, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia – Deliver/Manufacture, Possession of Controlled Substance, 3^rd Degree – Drug Unspecified and Operating Motor Vehicle Under/Influence of Controlled Substance – 1^st.

Both men were lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

• BEREAVEMENT POLICY
• 911 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
• ADMIN CODE - COURT MEETING UPDATES
• ROAD DEPT. CDL CHANGES 

The following individuals were arrested over the weekend in the area....

• Ernest Bradley Foley, 54, of Jamestown - arrested by the RCSO on Saturday night for Assault 4th degree (Domestic Violence).

Lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

• Brenda Lee Fountain, 67, of Edmonton - arrested on Friday afternoon by KSP for DUI and Wanton Endangerment 2nd degree.
• Sandy Marie Dean, 42, of Columbia - arrested by KSP on Friday night for Public Intoxication of a Controlled Substance, Failure to Produce Insurance Card and Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance.

On Wednesday, June 22, 2022 the Adair County Sheriff’s Office  investigated a 2-vehicle collision at the intersection of Millerfield Rd and Edgar Jessie Rd.

A 2017 Kia Soul, operated by Cara Hadley of Columbia, was attempting to make a U-turn at Edgar Jessie Rd and turned into the path of a 2011 Ford van being operated by 29-year-old Dakota McGowan of Columbia. The van left the roadway and overturned.

On Thursday, June 23, 2022 K-9 Deputy Chandler Staten initiated a traffic stop at 7:21 PM on an all terrain vehicle operating recklessly at the intersection of KY 768 and KY 92. Upon contact with the operator, Deputy Staten believed there to be controlled substances in the vehicle. Upon a roadside search, suspected methamphetamine was located. 

Brandon Crawhorn, 37, of Russell Springs was arrested and lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail on the following charges:

• Possession of a controlled substance 1st degree (methamphetamine) 
• Possession of drug paraphernalia 
• License to be in possession 
• Disregarding a stop sign 
• All terrain vehicle violation
• Failure to signal and
• Non-Payment of Court Costs, Fees or Fines

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 24, 2022) – Public health officials today announced that the first probable case of monkeypox in Kentucky in 2022 has been identified in a Jefferson County resident. No further information about the patient will be released due to privacy concerns.

Initial testing was completed at the Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) Division of Laboratory Services. Confirmatory testing is pending at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Based on the initial positive test and preliminary case investigation, state health officials consider this a probable monkeypox infection. The patient remains isolated, and health officials are working to identify anyone the patient may have had close contact with while infectious.

As of June 23, 2022, the CDC reports that 173 monkeypox cases have been identified in 24 U.S. states. More information about the monkeypox outbreak is available on the CDC’s website.

State Public Health Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack said, “Identifying the first case of monkeypox in Kentucky is concerning but not surprising. Fortunately, the risk to the general public remains low. We continue to work closely with CDC and our local health department and healthcare partners to contain the spread of this virus.”

Person-to-person transmission is possible either through skin-to-skin contact with body fluids, monkeypox sores or contaminated items, such as bedding or clothing, or through exposure to respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact.

Monkeypox typically begins with flu-like illness, including fever and swelling of the lymph nodes about five to 21 days after exposure, followed by a rash or lesions one to three days later. The rash or lesions are often painful and typically begin on the face but may occur on any part of the body. The illness typically lasts for two to four weeks. People are considered infectious from the time that symptoms start until all scabs from the rash have fallen off and the skin has healed.

To prevent the spread of monkeypox in Kentucky, KDPH is asking individuals to be aware of the risks and how monkeypox spreads. It is also important to remember that monkeypox can spread through sexual networks, therefore KDPH urges you to be vigilant. People who have symptoms of monkeypox, particularly the characteristic rash or lesions, should take the following steps:

• Visit a medical provider for an evaluation
• Cover the area of the rash with clothing
• Wear a mask
• Avoid skin-to-skin, or close contact with others

Individuals with questions about monkeypox should speak to their primary care provider. In addition, people without a regular provider that have developed a rash in the genital or perianal area, can access services at local health department sexual health clinics.

KDPH is urging healthcare providers across the commonwealth to be alert for patients who have rash illnesses consistent with monkeypox:

• Monkeypox infection should be considered for patients presenting with skin lesions, especially for those with a history of recent travel to an area with confirmed monkeypox cases or who have close skin-to-skin contact (such as sexual contact) with new or affected partners.
• Take note that some patients have had genital lesions and the rash may be hard to distinguish from syphilis, herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection, chancroid, varicella zoster, and other more common infections.
• Isolate any patients suspected of having monkeypox in a single-person room, and ensure staff understand the importance of wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (gown, gloves, eye protection, and respirator) and that they wear it each time they are near suspected cases.
• Use standard cleaning/disinfectants in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and dispose of any materials that touched the patient as medical waste.
• Report all suspected monkeypox cases to Public Health immediately. Additional information is available on the KDPH website.

An Adair County Grand Jury has returned numerous indictments. Indictments are legal accusations and do not determine guilt or innocence.

Unemployment rates rose in nine Kentucky counties, fell in 107 counties, and stayed the same in four counties between May 2021 and May 2022, according to the Kentucky Center for Statistics (KYSTATS), an agency of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet.

Locally, unemployment was down year-to-year in Adair and all surrounding counties. Month-to-month, rates rose slightly in Cumberland, Green, Metcalfe, and Russell Counties, and was down slightly in Adair, Casey, and Taylor Counties.
 

Cumberland and Woodford counties recorded the lowest jobless rates in the commonwealth at 2.6% each. It was followed by Scott County, 2.8%; Anderson, Boone, Fayette, Harrison, Jessamine and Monroe counties, 2.9% each; and Carroll, Logan, Simpson, Todd and Washington counties, 3% each.

Caroline Wells of Russell Springs, Kentucky, has received the Lindsey Wilson DUO Broadband Scholarship. The $3,000 tuition scholarship is given annually to a first-time, full-time Lindsey Wilson freshman from DUO Broadband's service area, which includes parts of Adair, Cumberland, Casey, Clinton, Russell and Taylor counties.

The daughter of Scott and Marsha Wells of Russell Springs, Wells plans to major in biology at LWC this fall. While at Russell County High School, Wells was involved in several activities, including: Boss Club, Pep Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and was a member of the varsity softball team. She was also named "Best All-around" student by her classmates.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 23, 2022) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear updated Kentuckians on economic development, efforts to provide relief from record gas prices, Western Kentucky tornado recovery, the lowest unemployment rate in state history for second consecutive month, the I-69 Ohio River Crossing in Henderson, work to address the water shortage in the City of Marion and a new recruitment program for law enforcement. He also recognized Hannah Edelen, Miss Kentucky 2022, as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Star.

Economic Development Momentum Continues to Grow
Today, Gov. Beshear highlighted four economic development projects from across the commonwealth, totaling over $70 million in investment, which will create over 525 jobs.

Local leaders in Rowan County will implement $425,000 in upgrades to the Menifee-Morgan-Rowan-County (MMRC) Regional Industrial Park with support from a $212,500 state grant and a local match from the MMRC Regional Industrial Development Authority. The project will see the construction of a new 150,000-square-foot pad that will include extensive upgrades in site work for grade, drain and infrastructure extensions.

Today, the Governor announced Funai Lexington Technology Corp.’s planned expansion in Fayette County, which includes an investment of over $3.8 million and will create six high-quality jobs for local residents. 

Seven innovative Kentucky companies will receive nearly $900,000 in state matching grants to support high-paying jobs and further grow the state’s technology industry. The grants are part of the commonwealth’s nationally recognized Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Matching Funds Program.

Augusta Distillery announced its new operation in Bracken County with a $23 million investment that will create 14 jobs for Kentuckians. This will be the company’s first full-scale operation in the commonwealth.

New Riff Distilling LLC broke ground on a more than $10 million barrel storage warehouse in Campbell County that will create five jobs for Kentucky residents. The new 55,000-square-foot warehouse will be located on 10 acres in Silver Grove and will help meet growing customer demand at the flagship distillery in Newport.

Mayfield Consumer Products LLC, a manufacturer of candles and other home fragrance products, announced it will invest a total of $33.3 million and employ more than 500 people full-time over the next five years as the company builds back following last December’s destructive tornado outbreak.

Gov. Beshear Activates State Price Gouging Laws to Combat High Gas Prices
In a further effort to provide relief for Kentuckians from record high gas prices, Gov. Beshear today issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency and activated the state’s price gouging laws to protect families from grossly overpriced gasoline and motor fuels. To learn more, see the full release.

“There are many challenges and even difficulties in our present,” Gov. Beshear said. “But as we push through it, there is a big and bright tomorrow that we will get to, and we will get to it together. Part of that is about doing everything we can here in state government to help our families get through.”

Governor Announces $3.25 Million in Relief for Grain Farmers Devastated by Tornadoes
The Governor announced a new effort to help farmers in Western Kentucky in the aftermath of the December 2021 tornadoes. The Team West Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund will provide up to $3.25 million through the Graves County Grain Assistance Program to help local farmers doing business with the Mayfield Grain Co. that took a direct hit from the tornadoes.

The Graves County Grain Assistance Program was established after Beshear’s administration was contacted by Graves County Judge/Executive Jesse Perry and local farmers. The group was concerned about the potential loss of crop yield and sought assistance for local farmers, who are an important part of ensuring the state has an ample grain supply. 

Unemployment Update
The Governor reported that the commonwealth’s May 2022 unemployment rate hit a new historic low of 3.8%, resulting in two back-to-back months of the lowest unemployment rates in Kentucky’s history. Currently, unemployment is 78,893, the lowest since May 2000.

“Today we have the fewest number of Kentuckians on unemployment in 21 years,” said Gov. Beshear. “Even better, 107 Kentucky counties saw their unemployment rates drop even from last month. Kentucky’s economy is surging and we’re creating quality jobs for people across the commonwealth.”

Kentucky’s labor force is now the highest it’s been since pre-pandemic at 2,064,679 and the civilian labor force participation rate is the highest it’s been since May 2020, now at 58.2%. The Governor also reported the employment rate is also the highest it’s been since pre-pandemic at 1,985,786.

Gov. Beshear and Kentucky Officials Break Ground on I-69 Ohio River Crossing
On Wednesday, the Governor joined local and state officials to break ground on the Interstate 69 Ohio River Crossing in Henderson. The Governor noted that his administration has made this project a priority.

“With another interstate over the Ohio River, the project will bring with it more jobs, improved travel and the ability to move people and goods quickly and safely from place to place,” Gov. Beshear said.

“Investment in our roads and bridges is essential, and smart investments like this one pay huge dividends for our state.”

Beshear Administration Helping City of Marion Address Water Shortage
­­Gov. Beshear updated Kentucky families in Marion on his administration’s actions to help address the city’s water shortage. On June 18, hours after receiving a request from local officials, the Governor issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency for the City of Marion.

Yesterday, he visited the city to meet with Mayor Jared Byford, City Manager Adam Ledford and other local leaders to help find solutions. They completed two site assessments at Lake George and City Lake. In the short-term, bottled water for drinking and cooking is being delivered to Marion.

“We are continuing to ask folks in the city to conserve water, because that will have the largest impact on prolonging the current water supply,” Gov. Beshear said. “I want families in Marion to know that the state is behind you, and we will stay with you until this crisis is solved.”

A follow-up meeting of all local and state officials has been scheduled for June 27.

Public Safety Enhanced by Recruiting Military Heroes as Law Enforcement Officers
Today, Gov. Beshear announced the state is making another historic investment in law enforcement by launching the Military to Law Enforcement Program. This program allows active service members within all branches of the U.S. military to be hired by local law enforcement agencies in Kentucky during their last 180 days of service. The military member will continue to receive their pay and benefits from the U.S. Military while they undergo law enforcement training at the Department of Criminal Justice Training. To read more, see the full release.

Team Kentucky All-Stars
Gov. Beshear congratulated Hannah Edelen, a public school teacher from Northern Kentucky who was just crowned Miss Kentucky 2022, and recognized her as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Star.

“Hannah has an incredible story. She’s the first in her family to graduate with a bachelor’s degree at Northern Kentucky University. After graduating she became a 6^th-grade social studies teacher for the Covington Independent School District. We are really excited for her and look forward to seeing everything she will do as Miss Kentucky,” Gov. Beshear said.

Jerry Compton, 49, of Columbia, KY was arrested by Trooper Begley of the Kentucky State Police just before midnight.  Compton was charged with No Brake Lights, Failure to Produce Insurance Card, Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Drug Unspecified) and Failure to Notify Transportation Department of Address Change. He was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 22, 2022) – Today, Gov. Beshear hosted a ceremonial signing for two bills that help more Kentuckians, including first-responders, access mental health services.

First, the Governor signed House Bill 127, which expands access to assisted outpatient treatment. This form of mental health treatment is a partnership between the courts, the health care system and the people of Kentucky. It allows the courts to order outpatient care for individuals with severe mental illness.

Since 2017, Kentucky, along with 47 other states, has offered court-ordered assisted outpatient treatment. This method of court-ordered mental health care ensures that individuals with severe mental illness get the treatment they need when they are not capable of seeking it out on their own. Tim’s Law also allows individuals with severe mental illness to receive treatment without being involuntarily hospitalized.

HB 127 expands Tim’s Law in three ways:

• It allows for expanded access to those who would benefit from outpatient treatment by modifying the criteria;
• It requires a more thorough evaluation of individuals who may receive court-ordered treatment; and
• It helps cover additional treatment costs necessary to ensure successful re-entry and participation in the community.

“Providing care to individuals with severe mental illness is crucial to the health and success of the commonwealth,” Gov. Beshear said. “This law gives our people more options to get treatment and to keep them out of institutions. This has a positive impact on the patients, their families, the courts and the community at large.”

“With this mental health treatment option, we are helping Kentuckians struggling to get the help they need,” said Rep. Ken Fleming, who cosponsored House Bill 127. “Tim’s Law is the first step toward building a system of care for those at risk so that they can chart a new path forward on the road to recovery. It’s about making sure they have the right tools and services available to avoid this revolving door situation in our judicial system.”

“On behalf of the Kentucky District Judges Association, I assure you that our judges are eager and anxious to help implement assisted outpatient treatment programs statewide,” said District Court Judge Stephanie Pearce Burke, a key advocate for the bill. “I want to thank Rep. Fleming and Rep. Willner for their time and commitment, and also to Sen. Julie Raque Adams who has advocated for this measure since 2017.”

Second, the Governor signed House Bill 562, which helps first responders get the mental health care they need. The bill allows peace officers and firefighters to take 48 hours leave after being involved in a critical incident. These types of incidents cover a range of events from car accidents to the death of a colleague.

“This legislation allows first responders to have time to seek mental health care after a traumatizing incident at work. This helps the first responder, their family and the community they serve take the time they need to recover,” Gov. Beshear said. “It also protects the first responders’ employment by allowing them to take the time they need for their mental health without fear of losing their job.”

“I filed this legislation after talking with Eastern Kentucky Pastor Joshua Ratliff, who takes great pride in counseling first responders and happens to be one himself,” said Rep. Ashley Tackett Laferty, the sponsor of House Bill 562. “He believed these brave men and women deserve time off after responding to a traumatic incident, and I am proud that my General Assembly colleagues unanimously agreed. I want to thank them as well as Gov. Beshear for highlighting this critical issue at today’s bill-signing ceremony.”

“This bill will help protect first responders by giving them time to process the events after a critical incident and begin seeking help,” said Pastor Josh Ratliff, who is a captain in the Middle Creek Volunteer Fire Department, where he serves as chaplain, as well as with the Floyd County Rescue Squad. “I hope this bill will start to help reduce post-traumatic stress disorder and suicide rates.”

The Adair County Judge Executive's office anounces that the upcoming firework show will be held at Lindsey Wilson College (the old A.C. Fairgrounds) beginning just after dark on the 4th of July. Casey Creek Pyrotechnics has been hired once again to put on the show for Adair County. Per their contract, no one will be allowed on the fairgrounds property for parking or viewing. There will be free parking on a first-come, first served basis at Lindsey Wilson College, Green River Window and Door, and at the Adair County Extension office. The Judge's office urges everyone to please be thoughtful of those who allow us to use their facilities, and remember to remove any trash from the parking areas after the fireworks display. Public safety arrangements will be provided by the Columbia-Adair County Volunteer Fire Department and the Adair County Sheriff’s Office.

We would like to thank the following sponsors: Adair County Fiscal Court, City of Columbia, Lindsey Wilson College, Bank of Columbia, Community Trust Bank, United Citizens Bank, First and Farmers National Bank, and Gaddie Shamrock. These sponsors enable us to come together and enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks show and celebrate our Independence as a community!

40-year-old Brent Grimsley was arrested by Trooper Begley with Kentucky State Police, and charged with operating on a suspended or revoked license, failure to use a child restraint device in a vehicle, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of an unspecified drug, and was also served a parole violation warrant. Grimsley was lodged in the Russell County Detention Centeraround 5:30 p.m.

Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Officers will be participating in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Operation SafeDRIVE (Distracted Reckless Impaired Visibility Enforcement) from June 21-23, 2022. This enforcement campaign targets unsafe driving behavior that often leads to crashes involving passenger cars and commercial vehicles. It complements national efforts to educate all drivers on how to share the roads safely with large trucks.

The national SafeDRIVE initiative cracks down on dangerous interstate driving behaviors such as aggressive driving, speeding, tailgating, failing to wear a seat belt, distracted driving, and driving under the influence.

According to the Columbia Police Dept, it has been brought to their attention that local residents are receiving numerous scam calls. People have reported that scammers are claiming to be with Social Security Office, IRS, and Publishers Clearinghouse.

The Columbia Police Department would like to remind everyone to NOT give personal details and information over the phone when solicited. If you believe your identity or accounts may have been compromised, visit https://www.identitytheft.gov/#/ and follow the steps in the link.

Russell County School Superintedent Michael Ford tells WAVE NEWS what took place at last nights meeting... 

A work-related accident in Adair County today claimed the life of a 22-year-old Russell County man.

On Monday, June 20, 2022 at 12:20pmCT, Adair County Sheriff Josh Brockman was dispatched to a reported male being struck by a utility pole and was unresponsive. The caller advised they were out KY 768 east but could not give an exact location and contact was lost. Adair 911 Dispatchers were able to ping the phones location and get responders going in the right direction. 

The work crew was located 2.6 miles out KY 768 near the KY 92 intersection. 22-year-old Joseph Hayden Robertson of Jamestown, KY was deceased upon Sheriff Brockman's arrival and was pronounced dead at the scene. 

The preliminary investigation reveals that Robertson, along with another crew member, was attempting to unload a 30ft utility pole. The poles vary in size with an approximate weight of 900-1200 lbs. The crew was part of A&C Communications Corperation, a business out of Cumberland County, KY who specializes in utilities. The company was working on setting out utility poles to be installed at a later date. During the attempt to unload the pole, it got away from them. The pole struck Robertson in the head and chest area, pinning him to the blacktop roadway.  

The investigation is ongoing by Sheriff Josh Brockman who was assisted on scene by Adair EMS, the Columbia-Adair County Fire Dept, and Adair County Coroner Todd Akin. 

Partnered with Russell Co. Judge-Exec Gary Robertson, KYTC is hosting a Popup Driver Licensing Event in Russell Co. on June 21 from 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Russell Co. Courthouse at 410 Monument Square in Jamestown. Appointments must be scheduled at https://t.co/z0PCOYbkE4 https://t.co/YvIkzFkaUR

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 20, 2022) – As part of his Better Kentucky Plan, Gov. Andy Beshear today announced a historic investment of over $203 million to expand reliable and affordable high-speed internet to more than 34,000 Kentucky families and businesses.

The Governor said that the state’s Better Internet program is providing more than $89.1 million in 46 grant awards to 12 internet service providers and local governments across 35 Kentucky counties. Grant recipients have pledged funds to match the state’s contributions, bringing the total investment for this round of broadband expansion awards to over $203 million.

“I am incredibly pleased to announce what I believe is the single largest provision of funding for high-speed internet in our commonwealth’s history,” Gov. Beshear said. “High-speed, reliable internet service is not just the infrastructure of the future, it is the infrastructure of the present. It is just as important right now as roads and bridges. And today is a key part of our plan to build a better Kentucky, as high-speed internet will be critical to the success of our state’s economy and to future job creation.”

The awards were made using a competitive process managed by the Finance and Administration Cabinet, which issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) in August 2021. An evaluation team comprised of state government employees spent six months evaluating and scoring the nearly 100 proposals received in response to the RFP. The 12 successful applicants, representing 46 projects, were selected based on their demonstrated ability to meet certain conditions required to receive this funding.

“These grants will lower the cost of construction so that our most rural areas will have access to this necessity of high-speed internet,” State Budget Director John Hicks said. “These funds are dedicated to unserved areas in Kentucky. We’re also setting up Kentucky’s first Office of Broadband Development to help administer and create a master plan for the commonwealth to provide universal service to every Kentuckian.”

Awards announced today include:

Charter Communications received 18 grant awards totaling $49,980,694. The overall project investment is $118,808,035 including the required matching funds. This investment will expand access to high-speed internet to 18,553 currently unserved households and businesses located in Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Carroll, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Lincoln, Madison, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer and Trimble counties.

Frankfort Plant Board received 11 grants totaling $8,045,741. The overall project cost is $16,091,483 including the required matching funds. This investment will expand access to high-speed internet to 1,918 currently unserved households and businesses located in Franklin County.

Pennyrile Rural Electric Cooperative received seven grants totaling $13,827,320. The overall project cost is $27,906,340 including the required matching funds. This investment will expand access to high-speed internet to 5,598 currently unserved households and businesses located in Caldwell, Christian, Lyon, Todd and Trigg counties.

West Kentucky Rural Telephone Co-op Corporation received two grant awards totaling $3,365,704. The overall project cost is $6,731,408 including the required matching funds. This investment will expand access to high-speed internet to 843 currently unserved households and businesses located in Calloway and Marshall counties.

Cumberland Cellular received a grant for $1,012,879. The overall project cost is $2,025,758 including the required matching funds. This investment will expand access to high-speed internet to 290 currently unserved households and businesses located in Casey County.

South Central Telecom received a grant for $1,885,000. The overall project cost is $3,710,000 including the required matching funds. This investment will expand access to high-speed internet to 215 currently unserved households and businesses located in Edmonson and Warren counties.

Gibson Connect received a grant for $4,650,880. The overall project cost is $11,073,552 including the required matching funds. This investment will expand access to high-speed internet to 1,763 currently unserved households and businesses located in Fulton, Graves and Hickman counties.

Boone County Fiscal Court received a grant for $808,832. The overall project cost is $4,880,432 including the required matching funds. This investment will expand access to high-speed internet to 2,130 currently unserved households and businesses located in Boone County.

Duo County Telephone Cooperative received a grant for $3,368,826. The overall project cost is $6,737,652 including the required matching funds. This investment will expand access to high-speed internet to 550 currently unserved households and businesses located in Russell and Wayne counties.

Bardstown Connect received a grant for $1,090,982. The overall project cost is $3,305,064 including the required matching funds. This investment will expand access to high-speed internet to 1,061 currently unserved households and businesses located in Bullitt, Nelson, Spencer and Washington counties.

Crystal Broadband Networks received a grant for $255,835. The overall project cost is $515,835 including the required matching funds. This investment will expand access to high-speed internet to 1,006 currently unserved households and businesses located in Powell County.

Tri-County Electric received a grant for $900,000. The overall project cost is $1,800,000 including the required matching funds. This investment will expand access to high-speed internet to 97 currently unserved households and businesses located in Monroe County.

Frankfort Plant Board Chair John Cubine, who attended today’s announcement, cited the positive impact the funds will have on residents in Franklin County.

“At the Frankfort Plant Board, we have long discussed the critical need to provide citizens in our most outlying areas the vital link to internet access that will increase the quality of life, access to educational and employment opportunities and a connection to the world,” Cubine said. “This award helps to ensure FPB can provide that access no matter where you live in Franklin County. As a long-standing service provider in this community, we recognize the value of this opportunity as it will promote economic development throughout the county. And we want to thank the Franklin County Fiscal Court for our partnership to secure this funding.”

“This is a momentous occasion for Powell County and the communities of Frames Branch, Hardwicks Creek and Furnace Road,” Fareed Saghir, general manager, Crystal Broadband Networks said. “This project covers approximately 1,000 households and is set to transform the lives of thousands of people since it opens up a world of opportunities – from telemedicine, to remote learning and being able to thrive in the ever-changing digital economy. Today’s awards are a giant leap toward bridging the digital divide between urban and rural communities.”

“The grants are going to bring fiber broadband to over 850 people. I can’t tell you what an impact that has on people’s lives. It promotes health care, learning and just a better quality of life,” DUO Broadband CEO and Cumberland Cellular, LLC president Tom Preston said. “On behalf of our employees, our board of directors and everybody involved, we just want to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

The president and CEO of Pennyrile Electric Cooperative said the co-op is honored to be selected as a recipient of broadband funding.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the state and build a fiber-to-the-home network for the communities we serve,” Pennyrile Electric Cooperative President and CEO Alan Gates said. “This funding from the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority will alleviate some of the significant financial burden associated with building a rural fiber-optic broadband network. The return on Kentucky’s investment will manifest through state residents receiving reliable, affordable and sustainable high-speed internet.

Pennyrile’s served communities will be connected to vital services that include remote access to education and health care. Further, our members will be able to fully participate in the digital economy, helping these areas grow and thrive economically. We are grateful to the State of Kentucky for their support of the members in the Pennyrile Electric service territory.”

Charter Communications executives also expressed appreciation for the grant.

“We applaud this bold, bipartisan broadband expansion effort and look forward to the opportunity to extend our ongoing partnership with Kentucky leaders – including the Beshear administration, Kentucky Infrastructure Authority and state and local leaders – who recognize the importance of rural connectivity to Kentucky’s future,” Area Vice President of Charter Communications Jerry Avery said. “From investing to deploy internet access to reach unserved Kentuckians, to continually upgrading our network to provide fast and reliable broadband products at great value, to addressing affordability and adoption barriers, Charter has long been committed to increasing connectivity across the Commonwealth. We look forward to this opportunity to extend our network to reach an additional nearly 20,000 unserved families and small businesses across 13 counties, in seven of which broadband availability will be further expanded through Charter’s ongoing rural deployment initiative.”

Bardstown Mayor J. Richard Heaton said the funds will greatly benefit citizens in the Bardstown area.

“The City of Bardstown greatly appreciates the award for Kentucky Broadband Deployment funds,” Mayor Heaton said. “These funds and our matching funds will enhance some of our planned buildouts in areas of our county and market that are unserved or significantly underserved. This would not be possible without the help of the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority and Gov. Beshear’s administration.”

The President of the Gibson Electric said they are thrilled to receive Kentucky Broadband Deployment Program grant funds for their project.

“Our member-owners desperately need high-speed, fiber-based internet service and it will vastly improve the quality of life in our communities by providing opportunities for education, health care, jobs, entertainment and more,” President and CEO of Gibson Electric Membership Corporation and Gibson Connect Dan Rodamaker said. “We sincerely thank all those who have made the grant possible and particularly Gov. Beshear, our legislators and members of the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority. We also are grateful to our local leadership for their support of this important project and to our members for their patience as we have worked to provide internet service as economically as possible. We plan to begin work immediately and will soon communicate details of our buildout plan.”

Judge/Executive Gary Moore of Boone County said financial support for this project will be transformational for his constituents.

“Boone County is extremely pleased and grateful to KIA in receiving a notice of preliminary award for the county’s highspeed internet project in the amount of $808,832,” Judge Moore said. “These funds will be applied to continuing the buildout of fiber to every household in the county, resulting in universal access to a system capable of delivering 1.0 gigabyte of service. This transformative project continues to move forward and is on schedule for completion during the first half of 2023.”

CEO of West Kentucky & Tennessee Telecommunications Trevor Bonnstetter said, “WK&T has served parts of rural Calloway and Marshall counties since our founding members saw a need in rural areas that weren’t being met by the large telecom providers. This grant award means that more residents of Calloway and Marshall counties outside the current WK&T footprint are one step closer to having access to the fastest, most reliable internet technology available. This technology improves the daily lives of our members by opening up a whole new world of opportunities in entertainment, health care, education and so much more.”

“We are absolutely thrilled with the announcement regarding the approval of Tri-County Electric’s broadband grant application,” Tri-County Electric CEO Paul Thompson said. “I believe that having our application approved, in the amount of $900,000, is evidence that the state knows we are ready to provide fiber internet to Cumberland County. I, along with our District B (Burkesville) Director, Bret Carver, am very excited for these families.”

The awards announced today are the result of a bipartisan agreement signed into law by Gov. Beshear in April 2021 that allocated $300 million in federal American Rescue Plan dollars to bring internet access to unserved and underserved communities across the commonwealth.

House Bill 320 and House Bill 382, enacted by the 2021 General Assembly and signed into law by Gov. Beshear, established Kentucky’s Broadband Deployment Fund to assist private sector entities and governmental agencies in the cost of constructing the “last mile” of high-speed internet access to unserved and underserved households and businesses across Kentucky.

The fund includes $300 million earmarked for the construction of high-speed internet infrastructure to connect areas currently without access.

Combined with at least 50% required matching federal investments, a minimum of $600 million will support the expansion of high-speed internet in Kentucky, creating more than 10,000 direct and indirect jobs. This historic investment, coupled with the internet speed test, access mapping and the KentuckyWired project, positions the commonwealth to move to the forefront of high-speed internet expansion nationwide.

The Governor’s Better Kentucky Plan aims to help the commonwealth lead in the post-COVID economy by applying federal dollars to build new schools, deliver clean drinking water, expand access to broadband, build stronger communities, improve roads and bridges and expand electric vehicle infrastructure.

The Governor also reminded Kentuckians that in December 2021, the FCC launched the Affordable Connectivity Program. This is a long-term, $14 billion program to ensure our people can afford the internet needed for work, school, health care and more. Qualifying households can receive a monthly benefit up to $30 per household. For more information or to apply, visit fcc.gov/acp.

A Russell Springs woman taken to the local hospital following a 2-vehicle hit-and-run on Sunday afternoon.

According to Russell Springs Police Chief Tim Pierce, 88-year-old Vonnie Popplewell was turning left into Northridge Shopping Center in Russell Springs when she was hit by a Honda Civic. The driver of the Honda Civic left the scene, and as of Sunday evening, law enforcement said they were searching for the driver of the vehicle.

Popplewell was transported to Russell County Hospital.

The Russell County Sheriff’s Office assisted at the scene. The investigation is ongoing by Russell Springs Police.

• Chad Cecil Reynolds, 36, of Russell Springs, KY - arrested on Friday by the RCSO for Public Intoxication of a Controlled Substance (Excluding Alcohol)
• Steven Wayne Fowler, 32, of Elkhorn, KY - arrested on Sunday morning by the ACSO for Possession of Methamphetamine
• Tasha Lynn Spaulding, 35, of Ludlow, KY - arrested by the ACSO on Friday night on a Fugitive from Another State Warrant

• Dylan Bland, 19, of Russell Springs, KY - arrested Saturday night by KSP for Speeding, Reckless Driving, DUI (2nd or Greater Offense), Failure to Produce Insurance Card and Failure to Appear.
• Michael Miller, 40, of Shepherdsville, KY - arrested on Saturday night by KSP for Failure to Illuminate Head Lamps, No Registration Plates, No Reg Receipt, Failure to Producer Insurance Card, Possession of Marijuana, DUI, Possession of Meth and Drug Paraphernalia.

Bobby Mull, 32, of Columbia, KY was arrested by Deputy Padgett with the Adair County Sheriff’s Office just after 2 on Thursday afternoon. Mull was charged with Operating on a Suspended or Revoked Operators License, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Meth), Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession and Operating Motor Vehicle Under/Influence of Controlled Substance 1^st. He was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

Jim Lieb spoke with Supt. Stephens following last nights meeting... 
 

Jamestown Mayor Regina Hinton tells listeners information on this years Lakefest Celebration in Jamestown... 

There will be a Special Called Columbia City Council Meeting on Friday, June 17, 2022 at 11:15amCT at City Hall. 

AGENDA 
                               

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL

1^ST ITEM:   MOTION TO APPROVE MINUTES OF JUNE 14, 2022 SPECIAL CALLED MEETING.

2^ND ITEM:  SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 220.185.
 

AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE CITY OF COLUMBIA,

KENTUCKY ANNUAL BUDGET FOR THE FISCAL YEAR

(07/01/2022) THROUGH (06/30/2023) BY

 ESTIMATING REVENUES AND RESOURCES AND APPROPRIATING

FUNDS FOR THE OPERATION OF CITY GOVERNMENT

MOTION TO ADJOURN

Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced funds exceeding $162 million for more than 360 non-entitlement cities in Kentucky from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). This is the second round of ARPA funding for eligible local governments, as these cities received their first tranche of funding last year.

The money, going out today, will help cities offset expenses related to COVID-19, including the costs of personal protective equipment, vaccination clinics, loss of revenue, payroll and more.

“COVID has proven that Kentucky can rise to meet challenges when we work together,” said Gov. Beshear. “This funding will set eligible city governments up for success as we remain committed to building a better Kentucky.”

The Department for Local Government (DLG) is tasked with distributing these funds. Non-entitlement cities, or cities with populations under 50,000 that did not file for a different distinction with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, were required to submit budget certification forms to DLG. The total amount of funding to be sent out to cities is $162,101,603.

Each allocation was based on population, per the U.S. Treasury.

For more information on ARPA funding for non-entitlement cities and a full list of eligible expenses, visit the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s website.

The Operation Christmas Child "Christmas in July Packing Party" is just around the corner. Boxes will be packed at 5:30pmCT on Sunday evening, July 17, 2022. The boxes will be dedicated during the Sunday morning service on July 24, 2022.

There will be a meal following Sunday School on July 24th to help raise money for postage. The goal is to pack 250 shoe box gifts during Christmas in July. The church goal is 600 boxes in 2022, while the goal for postage is $6,000.

Items needed include: school supplies, tooth brushes, soap, wash clothes, sunglasses, tennis balls, coloring pages, crayons or coloring pencils, flip flops, toys, and small plastic bowls or cups.

If you're interested in purchasing any of these items or making a monetary donation, call the church office at 270-384-3176 or contact Mark Fudge at 270-634-2919.

South Kentucky RECC has a planned power outage this morning (Thursday) in Jamestown.

According to a press release, the outage will begin around 8 a.m. Areas affected will include East Highway 619, South Highway 1680, and Pleasant Hill Boat Dock. The outage will last about 3 hours as crews work to replace a pole.

Mark KirkPatrick, age 67, of Columbia, was taken into custody by Trooper McQuerery with the Kentucky State Police, just after 11 last night. Kirkpatrick, was charged with Reckless Driving, No Registration Receipt and Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence Substance 1^st.

Brittany Dunn, age 30, of Columbia, was arrested by Trooper Smith with the Kentucky State Police around 10:30 last night. Dunn was charged with Failure to Illuminate Head Lamps, Rear License Not Illuminated and Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1^st Degree,  1st Offense.

Rubin Omora, age 67, of Columbia was arrested by Officer Durbin with the Columbia Police Department. He was charged with Serving Alcoholic Beverages to Minors 1^st Offense.

All 3 were lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail

T-Mobile announces Columbia as one of the 25 small towns winning Hometown Grants to jumpstart vital community development projects. The city's grant will go towards building a multi-use arena on the Adair County Fairgrounds to host community and student 4H agricultural education events.

"We are extremely excited for the prospect of development that this grant from T-Mobile brings to the local Adair County Fair Association," said Mayor Pam Hoots.

Launched in April 2021, T-Mobile Hometown Grants is a $25 million, five-year initiative to support the people and organizations who help small towns across America thrive and grow by providing funding to kickstart important new community development projects. Since the program's start, T-Mobile has given more than $4.4 million dollars to kickstart 100 community development projects across 36 states, including Adair County. Hometown Grants are provided every quarter to up to 25 towns. Every small town with a population of less than 50,000 people with a vision for how to make their community even stronger than it is today are eligible and encouraged to apply.

Hometown Grants are part of the Un-Carrier's massive 5-year commitment announced in April 2021 to bring 5G to rural America, open hundreds of new stores and support economic development in small towns by providing $25 million in funding. In addition, the Un-Carrier unleashed T-Mobile Home Internet, a new broadband service available to more than 13 million rural households across the country. Just last month, T-Mobile unveiled Internet Freedom, a new Un-Carrier move to address pain points in the broadband industry and make it easier for broadband customers to break up with Big Internet, lock in their price with massive savings, and feel appreciated.

It's all part of T-Mobile's goal to ensure that all Americans -- from big cities to small towns and rural communities across the U.S. -- have access to all the latest products, services and technology.

For full details on how to submit a proposal for Hometown Grants, visit https://www.t-mobile.com/brand/hometown-grants [1].

For more information on past Hometown Grant recipients, visit the T-Mobile Newsroom here [2], here [3] and here [4].

For more information about T-Mobile's commitment to small towns, visit

https://linkprotect.cudasvc.com/url?a=https%3a%2f%2f%2f%2fT-Mobile.com%2fAcrossAmerica&c=E,1,k8VbuyucfKQjwJj_0T28QtJXyd0GBlAB_JZWnA1tjPFgeoi4rziFLP-DT4-2dDe5LYWZnxHrR1IzrL2tYSqda66OCJPht3S8etpP-znc7f1QeZB6daqYTU8,&typo=1 [5].

The Boil Water Advisory on Gosser Ridge in Russell Springs, KY has been lifted. You no longer have to boil your water.

The Russell County Sheriff’s Office released its monthly activity report for May at this week’s meeting of the Russell County Fiscal Court.

The sheriff’s office reported 482 calls of service, 41 arrests, and 14 mental health transports. The sheriff’s office also reported 111 court papers received, along with 5,993 court security transport miles. There were also 31 criminal summons, 48 vehicle inspections, and 19 concealed carry of deadly weapons permits given.

Campbellsville Fire-Rescue was dispatched to a report of a person drowning near Wilson Creek on Green River Lake just before 5:30 on Tuesday.

Upon arrival, firefighters located the reporting party and obtained a point last scene (PLS). A public safety diver and backup public safety diver were deployed to that area and conducted search patterns. During this time, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife (KFW) Officer deployed a side scan sonar and was able to guide our public safety divers directly to the victim approximately 75' from the bank. The victim was pronounced deceased by Taylor County Coroner’s Office (TCCO). This is still under investigation with TCCO and KFW. No rescuers were injured during this recovery.

The Adair County School Board will meet on Thursday, June 16, 2022 for a Special Regular School Board Meeting at 6:00pmCT at the Adair Co. Board Conference Room.

**Meeting called to order**

**Supt. Dr. Stephens & Adair County Board Members will open meeting with Pledge of Allegiance**

**Prayer**

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA?
 

CONSENT AGENDA

• APPROVAL OF MINUTES
• APPROVAL OF TREASURER’S REPORT
• APPROVAL OF PAYMENT OF BILLS
• APPROVAL TO CLOSE OUT FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022
• APPROVAL OF PREMIUM INSURANCE RENEWAL OPTION #1 FOR THE 2022/2023 SCHOOL YEAR.
• APPROVAL OF SHORTENED SCHOOL DAY WAIVER TO KDE FOR A STUDENT
• 2120326509
• ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF PERSONNEL ACTION

REGULAR AGENDA

• SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
• APPROVAL OF MONTHLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Renae Smith
• APPROVAL OF 2022/2023 BOND OF DEPOSITORY – Renae Smith
• APPROVAL OF 2022-2023 BOND OF TREASURER AND FINANCE OFFICER – Renae Smith
• PERMISSION TO APPLY AND SUBMIT APPROVAL OF FEDERAL ASSURANCES FOR ALL FEDERAL GRANTS AND ARP FUNDS FOR 2022-2023 SCHOOL YEAR – Renae Smith
• APPROVAL FOR OUT OF STATE TRAVEL FOR ACHS BAND TO ATTEND DCI COMPETITION IN MURFREESBORO, TN AT FLOYD STADIUM ON JULY 29th – Jordan Humphress
• APPROVAL TO CREATE DISTRICT INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANT II POSITION FOR ADAIR CO. SCHOOL SYSTEM. – Wes Irvin
• APPROVAL OF MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH KENTUCKY HIGHER EDUCATION ASSISTANCE AUTHORITY AND KENTUCKY CAMPUS COMPACT FOR 2022-2023 SCHOOL YEAR
• APPROVAL OF MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN LAKE CUMBERLAND DISCTRICT HEALTH DEPARTMENT FOR 2022-2023 SCHOOL YEAR
• APPROVAL OF SCHOOL THERAPY SERVICE AGREEEMENT WITH GREY COUNSELING SERVICES, LLC DBA FOR 2022-2023 SCHOOL YEAR
• APPROVAL OF KENTUCKY OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION VENDOR AGREEMENT FOR 2022-2023 SCHOOL YEAR
• APPROVAL OF ACHS TEACHERS MATT & KERI WILLIS TO ATTEND AOPA SYMPOSIUM IN MEMPHIS, TN in FALL of 2022. Chad Parnell/Sheila Willis
• APPROVAL OF KSBA ANNUAL POLICY AND PROCEDURE UPDATES – Robbie Harmon
• APPROVAL OF CMTA/RFP PROPOSAL
• SCHEMATIC DESIGN PRESENTATION OF THE MIDDLE SCHOOL BY DECO
• BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS UPDATE – Steve Burton
• PUBLIC COMMENTS
• ADJOURNMENT

Reshandall Leigh Bridgewaters, 41, of Columbia was arrested by KSP on Monday night for Burglary 2nd degree and Violation of a Kentucky EPO/DVO. Bridgewaters was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

On Monday evening, June 13, 2022 Columbia Police responded to Tractor Supply on Jamestown Street after a report of an infant left unattended in a vehicle. 

Upon arrival, officers observed a female baby alone inside a vehicle. The couple who had left the baby were inside Tractor Supply. Security camera footage showed the baby was left alone in the vehicle for approximately 7 minutes before officers arrived on scene. 

David Weiand, 25, and Victoria Rogers, 20, both of Russell Springs, were both taken into custody and charged with wanton endangerment 1st degree. Social Services was notified and the baby was placed in the care of relatives. 

Sgt Evan Burton made the arrest. He was assisted on scene by Officer Josh Durbin.

 

  

 

 

 

Jim Lieb covered the meeting for Wave News and spoke with County Judge Executive Gale Cowan ...

During Monday nights Russell County Fiscal Court meeting, Jailer Bobby Dunbar addressed the Court concerning a pay issue for employees hired before the recent pay increase. Judge Gary Robertson shared what took place...

Judge Robertson went on to discuss other items on last night's agenda...

The Adair County Fiscal Court will meet in regular session on Monday, June 13, 2022 at 6:00pmCT in the basement of the Adair County Annex. The public is invited to attend.

ACTION ITEMS ON THE AGENDA:                        

• PRESENTATION AND POSSIBLE AWARDING OF ROAD BIDS
• 1^ST READING ADMIN CODE CDL CHANGES
• 1^ST READING ADMIN CODE BEAREVEMENT CHANGS
• 1^ST READING-911 STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
• PERMISSION FOR JUDGE TO SIGN 2023 MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE                                              

Anna Gayle Harley, age 22, of Cookeville, Tennessee, was arrested by Trooper Cary of the Kentucky State Police in Cumberland County just after 2 a.m. Sunday Morning. Harley was charged with Failure of Owner to Maintain Required Insurance 1^st Offense, Possession of Open Alcoholic ever Container in Motor Vehicle Prohibited, Possession of a Controlled Substance 1^st Degree 1^st Offense (Cocaine), Operating Motor Vehicle Under Influence ALC .08 – 1^st, and Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession. She was lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.  

The 2022 Adair County Fair is coming up July 23-29, 2022...

• Dustin Sheene, 35, of Liberty, KY - arrested on Saturday night by Fish & Wildlife for Alcohol Intoxication in a Public Place, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

• Timothy Brown, 32, of Russell Springs, KY - arrested by the RCSO overnight for Disorderly Conduct 2nd degree.
• Michael Erwin, 40, of Hebron, KY - arrested on Saturday night by Fish & Wildlife for Operating a Boat/Watercraft while Intoxicated and Failure to Operate Boat at Idle Speed.

There will be a Special Called Columbia City Council Meeting on Monday, June 13, 2022 at 11:15amCT at City Hall.

AGENDA

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL 

1^ST ITEM:  MOTION TO APPROVE MINUTES OF JUNE 03, 2022 SPECIAL CALLED MEETING.

2^ND ITEM:  MOTION TO APPROVE MINUTES OF JUNE 06, 2022 REGULAR CALLED MEETING.

3^RD  ITEM:  FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 220.185:  AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE CITY OF COLUMBIA, KY ANNUAL BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 07/01/2022 THROUGH 06/30/2023 BY ESTIMATING REVENUES AND RESOURCES AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THE OPERATION OF CITY GOVERNMENT.

The Russell County Fiscal Court will meet on Monday, June 13, 2022 at 5:30pmCT....
 

There is a Russell County Boil Water Advisory on Tucker Avenue, Charles Peck Drive, Womack Street, Rena Drive, Steve Drive, Joe T Petty Drive, Lacey Lane, part of Northridge Shopping Center and a section of Dowell Road. The advisory is due to a water main being hit at the junction of Hwy. 127 & Bernard Lane. Boil all water used for drinking and cooking purposes for at least 3 minutes until further notice.

Nighttime paving starts Sunday on KY 80X through downtown Somerset.

Work hours will be approximately 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. Street parking will be prohibited beginning at 6:30 p.m. each night. 

Work is expected to last approximately two weeks. https://t.co/qUglq2gFyd

Christopher Dial, age 25, of Burkesville, was arrested by Trooper Justice just after 10 last night. Dial was charged with Speeding 15 mph over limit, Failure to Produce Insurance Card, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession and Operating Motor Vehicle Under Influence of Controlled Substance – 1^st.

He was lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

Russell Springs City Council met in regular session last evening

Mayor Eddie Thomas tells WAVE listeners what took place... 

The drawing for ballot position in Russell County was held on Thursday afternoon and is as follows:

Russell Springs City Council:

1.      Tommy Holt
2.      Ricky Barnes
3.      Johnny Bell
4.      Timmy Hudson
5.      Sherry Bottom Daniel
6.      David C Blakey
7.      Larry “Gene” Brown
8.      Cody L Wilson

Jamestown City Council:

1.      Barry Coffey
2.      Dwight W Richards
3.      William Murray
4.      Mitchell Marcum
5.      Ada Lawson
6.      Terry Robertson
7.      Tony H Wright
8.      Jared Roy

School Board District #2

1.      Sheila Wicker
2.      Eric Selby

Mayor of Jamestown

1.      Regena Hinton
2.      Richard Bennett

*The position of RC Judge Executive is a partisan race, so the ballot position order is determined by the winner of the State of Kentucky, in the last Presidential race. The winner in Kentucky was Republican Donald Trump, so the Republican candidate is listed first*

RC Judge Executive

1.      Randy Marcum
2.      Brent West

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 9, 2022) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear updated Kentuckians on expansions by two Kentucky distilleries, economic development awards, efforts to bring parity in gas prices to the Louisville metro area and to protect Kentuckians from price-gouging related to the baby formula shortage, Western Kentucky tornado recovery and COVID-19. Public health commissioner Dr. Steven Stack also briefed Kentuckians about recent cases of hepatitis in children.

Bourbon Industry Expanding to Meet Demand
Gov. Beshear recalled two announcements this week by Kentucky distilleries that are expanding operations in the commonwealth.

The Governor and Heaven Hill broke ground Monday on a new distillery in Bardstown in Nelson County. The $135 million investment marks a return to Bardstown for the company, which lost its distillery, seven storage warehouses and nearly 100,000 barrels of Bourbon in a fire in 1996. Click here to read the release.

Tuesday, Gov. Beshear joined leaders of Four Roses Distillery to announce that the company will invest more than $23 million to construct 17 new warehouses totally more than 776,00 square feet in Coxs Creek in Bullitt County. This investment will support continued growth of the Lawrenceburg-based distillery and comes in response to increased demand for the company’s bourbon throughout the United States. Click here to read the release.

Accolades Continue for Kentucky’s Economic Momentum
Gov. Beshear discussed the recent announcement by industry publication Area Development, which awarded Kentucky a Gold Shovel award and named Ford Motor Co. and SK Innovation’s investment in the BlueOvalSK Battery Park in Hardin County one of its Manufacturing Projects of the Year. The honors from Area Development come in response to recent economic momentum in the commonwealth as the state builds back stronger from the effects of the pandemic. Click here to read the full release.

Central Kentucky Railroad Modernization Project
Gov. Beshear announced the award of a $7.4 million federal grant for a railroad modernization project that will improve rail safety and efficiency while yielding environmental and traffic-mitigation benefits. The grant from the Federal Railroad Administration is to R.J. Corman Railroad Co.’s Bluegrass Multimodal Freight Improvement Project.

The project will include construction of a rail-to-truck transload facility in Frankfort, rehabilitation of track on the mainline between Frankfort and Lexington and improvements to the company’s main yard and transload facility in Lexington. Learn more about the project here.

Financial Relief for Kentucky Families
Today, the Governor sent a letter to top administrators at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency formally requesting that they grant a waiver to Jefferson County and the portions of Bullitt and Oldham counties in which reformulated gasoline is mandated.

Federal regulations require that a reformulated gasoline be sold in many urban areas, like Louisville, in an effort to cut down on pollution. This reformulated blend can cost as much as 25 cents per gallon more than conventional gasoline.

If approved, the waiver would be in effect for up to 20 days and would allow for the sale of conventional gasoline in the area.

“The people who live and work in the Louisville area do not deserve to shoulder this extra burden during what is already a trying time when it comes to filling up,” Gov. Beshear said. “This is the right thing to do for our families, and it’s how we will ensure they will continue not just to survive but to thrive.”

Gov. Beshear also declared a state of emergency regarding the shortage of baby formula in the commonwealth. The Governor’s executive order activates state price-gouging laws, which aim to protect families from predatory pricing as they seek to purchase baby formula, which is currently in high demand.

Kentuckians should report baby formula price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General. At this time, the attorney general has not reported any claims of price gouging to the Governor or requested that the price gouging laws be activated, but other states have reported claims and are taking steps to address them. Under current law, the state of emergency and price gouging laws can last for 30-days; however, local county and city officials can request an extension.

For more information on these actions, see the complete press release.

More than $16.3 million in additional SAFE Funds for Tornado Recovery
Gov. Beshear announced a sixth round of awards from the West Kentucky State Aid Funding for Emergencies (SAFE) fund. The more than $16.3 million in assistance announced today will go to two eligible Western Kentucky counties and one utility to help with the costs of restoration and recovery from the devastating December 2021 tornadoes.

“This weekend will mark six months since tornadoes wreaked havoc on some of our Western Kentucky communities. Steady progress is being made to rebuild and restore what was taken from our people and their hometowns, but the work continues.” Gov. Beshear said. “The SAFE fund awards announced today will help further that progress by helping to cover expenses and services ineligible for FEMA aid and relieve some of the fiscal strain these communities have endured.”

Today’s funding awards include:

• $1.2 million to the city of Dawson Springs for land survey costs;
• $15 million to Mayfield Electric & Water Systems for strained fiscal liquidity; and
• More than $61,000 for strained fiscal liquidity and nearly $115,000 for wet debris removal to Muhlenberg County.

The Governor recommended the appropriation for the SAFE fund, and the 2022 General Assembly supported the aid through Senate Bill 150. The Kentucky Division of Emergency Management continues to receive additional applications for SAFE funding, which are being carefully reviewed to ensure the funds are used to their maximum benefit.

Gov. Beshear also noted that he will be in Mayfield Friday to mark the 6-month anniversary of the tornadoes that struck portions of Western Kentucky on Dec. 10-11, 2021. He provided an update on the recovery efforts in the region. Read more about those efforts here.

Health Updates: COVID-19; Pediatric Hepatitis
Gov. Beshear began his COVID update remarking on the tragic milestone reached this week of more than 16,000 Kentuckians lost to COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic.

The Governor noted that cases are rising once again, with 9,760 cases announced from May 30 through June 5. The positivity rate continues its upward trend, reaching 12.41% the on June 5. Overall hospitalizations in Kentucky, as well as the number of patients in the ICU and on a ventilator, have increased, but not proportionally with case numbers.

Commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health Dr. Steven Stack discussed efforts by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), working with state health departments, to identify children with hepatitis of unknown cause. So far, there are six cases in Kentucky, with children ranging from 8-months to 4-years old. Dr. Stack said there is no relation to the COVID-19 vaccines and no link to other common causes of viral hepatitis.

Team Kentucky All-Star
The Governor named Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman this week’s Team Kentucky All-star and wished the Lieutenant Governor a happy birthday, which she celebrates today.

The Russell County Jaycees Fair continues through Saturday, June 11th. Gate admission is $10; rides ARE included in gate admission. For a full schedule of events, visit the Russell County Jaycees Facebook page.

Wednesday, June 8 - Garden Tractor Pulls and dirt drag racing
Thursday, June 9 - Fresh off the Farm Truck & Tractor Pull, Championship Draft Horse Pull & Wrestling
Friday, June 10 - Beef show, TNT Truck & Tractor Pull and Karaoke Contest
Saturday, June 11 - KIDS day events, RC Derby, Championship Rodeo and Closing Ceremony
 

4-H Division 

Elizabeth Hoskins - Sewing 

Abby Fox - Arts 

Dalton Foley - Photography

Gunner Coe - Entomology 

Open Class Division 

Bea Massengill - Flowers 

Donna Tucker - Baked Goods 

Charlene Perkins - Photography 

Tyler Hoskins - Art 

Rhonda Hammond - Food Preservation

Cristy Martin - Needle Work 

Cynthia Mills - Quilts 

Tonny Kerr - Horticulture 

Freddie Roy - Arts and Crafts 

Tammy PIckett - Home Furnishings 

Go by SKRECC from 7:30am-5:30pmCT and pick up your FREE bucket and light bulbs. They are located at 2405 N. Main Street, Jamestown, KY.?

The Russell County High School Baseball Team will be escorted to the county line on Thursday, June 9th at 3:00pmCT as they head to the Final 4 in Lexington, KY. Their game will be on Friday, June 10th at 11:30amCT against Woodford County.

On your way out of town, be sure to fill up at Russell Shell Mart (across from ACE Hardware) on pumps #7 and #8. A percentage of sales will go to the Russell County Athletic Dept.

On Wednesday morning, June 8, Columbia Police were dispatched to a break-in in progress on Creekview Drive, off Oak Street, just after 4:30 AM. Upon arrival, Officers observed and detained a male and female who were on the property’s front porch. 

At the residences front door, Officers observed a screwdriver and credit card wedged in the door. 
Both parties were taken into custody, with the male subject additionally being found to be in possession of suspected methamphetamine. 

Ryan Roy, 41, of Liberty and Kelly Phelps, 37, of Edmonton have both been charged with attempted burglary 2nd degree with Roy additionally being charged with possession of methamphetamine 2nd offense. 

Officer Adam Cravens was the arresting Officer. He was assisted on scene by Officer Justin Cross.

SOMERSET, Ky. (June 8, 2022) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 Office advises motorists that the intermittent ramp closures at Exit 78 (Nancy) on the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Expressway have been rescheduled.

Work originally scheduled for today will now take place Thursday, June 9 and Friday, June 10. The ramp closures are necessary as crews perform paving operations. 

Work will be performed both east and west bound. Motorists should seek alternate routes while this work is addressed. 

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/KYTCDistrict8and at www.twitter.com/KYTCDistrict8.  
 

Devan Durrant, 28, of Jamestown was arrested by Officer Smith with the Jamestown Police Department just after 2:30 this morning. Durrant was charged with Speeding, 15 mph over Limit, Operating Motor Vehicle Under Influence Alcohol/Substance – 1^st, Resisting Arrest, Disorderly Conduct, 2^nd Degree and Failure to Notify Address Change to Department of Transportation.

James Kiser, age 57, of Russell Springs, was arrested by Deputy Pierce with the Russell County Sheriff’s Office just before 11 last night. Kiser was charged with Possession Controlled Substance, 2^nd Degree – Drug Unspecified, Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession, Possession of Marijuana, Strangulation and Assault 4^th Degree (Domestic Violence) Minor Injury.

Angela Passmore, 39, of Russell Springs was arrested by the Russell County Sheriffs Office and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance first degree (Methamphetamine), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Tampering with Physical Evidence. Passmore was also served with a parole violation warrant.

These individuals were lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

2022 Adair County November General Election Candidates...

(Note) Mark Harris has also filed for Columbia City Council

2022 Russell County November General Election Candidates....

• Reckless driving 
• Operating a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence 
• Operating on a Suspended license 
• Assault 2nd degree 
• Resisting Arrest 
• Wanton Endangerment and
• Criminal Mischief

The Columbia-Adair County Volunteer Fire Department collected 52,851.76 This years 2022 WHAS Crusade for Children,  This is up from last year, and we would like to thank everyone that donated.         

Donald Hare, Program Director

Air Evac Lifeteam 56-Danville, KY

donald.hare@gmr.net

(417)505-9241

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 Office advises motorists that intermittent ramp closures will occur at Exit 78 (Nancy) on the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Expressway in Pulaski County, tomorrow, June 8. The ramp closures are necessary as crews perform paving operations. 

Work will be performed both east and west bound. Motorists are urged to use caution when traveling through the area and to pay close attention to signage.

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.  

Johnny Bell filed his papers for a seat on the Russell Springs City Council.

Jared Roy filed for a seat on the Jamestown City Council.

Today at 4:00pm is the deadline to file for office. The drawing for ballot position will be held Thursday, June 9, 2022 at 2:00pmCT in the 2^nd floor courtroom of the old Russell County Courthouse.

ADAIR CO. SHERIFF’S DEPT. ACTIVITY REPORT FOR MAY, 2022

41    WARRANTS OF ARREST SERVED

11    CRIMINAL CASES OPENED

0      CALL RESPONSE REPORTS WRITTEN

2      DOMESTIC ABUSE CASES WORKED

11     ACCIDENTS WORKED

21     OUT OF COUNTY TRANSPORTS

17     CITATIONS WRITTEN FOR CRIMINAL ACTIVITY

44     CIVIL PROCESS PAPERS SERVED

3       CRIMINAL SUMMONS SERVED

71     SUBPOENAS SERVED

191   HOURS OF COURT SECURITY PROVIDED

269   VEHICLE INSPECTIONS DONE 

9       ANIMAL COMPLAINTS

13     MOTOR ASSISTS

693   911 CALLS

8       ALCOHOL/ DRUG RELATED

14,576  MILES DRIVEN

The Columbia Police Department's Activity Report for May 2022:

• Calls for service 606
• Citations 92
• Motorist assists 12
• Escorts 15
• Accidents investigated 24
• Injury accidents 5
• Incident reports 7
• Criminal cases opened 7

• Adam Smith, 37, of Russell Springs - arrested by KSP on Saturday afternoon for Speeding, Operating on a Suspended or Revoked Operators License, Theft of Identity of Another Without Consent, No Registration Plates or Receipt, 2 counts of Failure to Appear, and 2 counts of Non-Payment of Court Costs, Fees, or Fines. 

Lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

• Christopher Glover, 26, of Russell Springs - arrested on Saturday night by the ACSO for Speeding, Reckless Driving, Possession of Marijuana & Drug Paraphernalia, DUI 2nd or greater offense (Aggravating Circumstance), Failure of Non-Owner/Operator to Maintain Insurance, No Registration Plates, Resisting Arrest, and Failure to Wear Seatbelt.
• Christina Anderson, 30, of Campbellsville - arrested on Saturday morning by Columbia Police for Receiving Stolen Property over $10,000.

Lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.
 

June is proclaimed as June Dairy Month...
 

In photo: Adair County Judge Executive Gale Cowan, David Burris, Fred Thomas, Ben Compton, & Extension Agent Nick Roy

Jacob Hall, age 22, of Jamestown, was arrested by Deputy Golden with the Russell County Sheriff’s Office, just after 3 a.m. this morning. Hall was charged with Assault, 4^th Degree (Domestic Violence) No Visible Injury, Public Intoxication-Controlled Substance (Excludes Alcohol) and Disorderly Conduct, 2^nd Degree.

Jason Flatt, age 18, of Russell Springs, was arrested by Trooper Justice of the Kentucky State Police, just before midnight last night. Flatt was charged with Driving on a DUI Suspended License – 1^st Offense, Booster Seat Violations and Failure to Wear Seat Belt.

Ronald Langbauer, age 52, of Jamestown, was taken into custody by Officer Tarter with the Jamestown Police Department at 10 last night. Lanbauer, was charged with Possession of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession, No Operators-Moped License, Failure to Produce Insurance Card and Operating Motor Vehicle Under/Influence Substance, 4^th or Greater Offense.

All 3 were lodged into the Russell County Detention Center.

Jason Bowers, age 37 of Burkesville, was arrested by Deputy Watson of the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office around 10:30 last night. Bowers was charged with Wanton Endangerment 1^st Degree, Disorderly Conduct, 2^nd Degree and Discharge Firearm/Other Device across Public Road. Bowers was lodged into the Adair County Regional Jail.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 2, 2022) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear updated Kentuckians on gas tax relief, economic development, funds for tornado recovery and road improvements. He also recognized Kentucky’s Class of 2022 as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

Gov. Beshear Stops State Gas Tax Hike, Providing Relief to Kentuckians at the Pump
Today, Gov. Beshear’s administration filed an emergency regulation to freeze the state gas tax and to prevent a 2-cent increase per gallon that would have taken effect July 1.

“Kentuckians cannot afford to pay more, and I am committed to doing everything I can to help keep more dollars in people’s pockets,” said Gov. Beshear. “This law was never intended to hurt Kentuckians during tough times, but with rising prices and inflation, this increase would have a negative impact on our families and it is time to take action.”

The state gas tax is set by statute, both in its rate and how it is calculated. The current rate of 26 cents was set to increase under a trigger, resulting in a price hike on both regular and diesel fuel. The Governor has looked for ways to relieve the financial burden on Kentuckians and asked the Department of Revenue to file this emergency regulation.

The funds collected through the state gas tax contribute to the Road Fund, which year to date is up 2.3%. Over the first seven months of the fiscal year, this action will reduce the budgeted Road Fund revenues by 1.6%. To make up for the lost road fund revenues, Gov. Beshear will propose using funds from the upcoming General Fund budget surplus. The budget for next year also includes a 21% increase in transportation infrastructure dollars from the federal government.

“This action to provide relief to Kentuckians will have no material impact on the transportation budget and projects,” Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray said. “All projects will move forward.”

To learn more, see the full release.

Gov. Beshear to Join Fruehauf North America, Local Officials for Grand Opening of $15 Million, 290-Job Facility in Bowling Green
Today, Gov. Beshear will join leaders from Fruehauf North America for the grand opening of the company’s new $15 million, 290-job operation in Bowling Green, signifying the semi-trailer manufacturer’s return to production in the United States.

“I always love to see a new company locate in the commonwealth, but it speaks to our many advantages when a company decides to locate its first U.S. operation in 25 years in the commonwealth,” Gov. Beshear said. “Fruehauf is a welcome addition to Kentucky and the Bowling Green area, and this is the start of what I know will be an excellent partnership for years to come.”

Gov. Beshear Announces More than $1 Million in Additional SAFE Funds for Tornado Recovery
Gov. Beshear announced a fifth round of awards from the West Kentucky State Aid Funding for Emergencies (SAFE) fund. The more than $1 million in assistance announced today will go to two eligible Western Kentucky counties and one city to help with the costs of restoration and recovery from the devastating December 2021 tornadoes.

“Nearly six months have passed since tornadoes struck Western Kentucky. And while our people are resilient and our communities are rebuilding, there is more work to be done,” Gov. Beshear said. “The funds awarded this week will help cover expenses and services that are not eligible for FEMA aid and will help relieve some of the financial strain these communities continue to face during this time of recovery.”

The more than $1 million announced today will accommodate the 5.2% local share for FEMA-eligible expenses for Taylor and Hopkins counties and support the purchase of heavy equipment in Hopkins County to facilitate debris removal. Bowling Green will receive the majority of today’s funding, which will reimburse the city for its upfront payments to cover utility reconnection charges for its citizens, as well as the cost for the removal of trees and stumps from private properties and the replanting of trees lost to the storm.

Today’s funding awards include:

• $970,000 to the City of Bowling Green;

• $58,500 to the Hopkins County Fiscal Court; and

• $10,400 to Taylor County.

Since early May, Gov. Beshear has announced awards of more than $20 million in SAFE funding to eligible Western Kentucky cities, counties and other entities.

Gov. Beshear recommended the appropriation for the SAFE fund, and the 2022 General Assembly supported the aid by passing Senate Bill 150, which the Governor signed into law in April. The Kentucky Division of Emergency Management continues to receive additional applications for SAFE funding, which are being carefully reviewed to ensure the funds are used to their maximum benefit.

Gov. Beshear Announces $2.8 Million in Transportation Funding to Local Governments for Street and Road Improvements
Today, Gov. Beshear announced more than $2.8 million in discretionary transportation funding to give travelers a smoother, safer drive and support economic development in communities.

The funding from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) will support 27 projects that include resurfacing at least 28 miles of local roadways and improving connections to existing and emerging business sites.

“For many Kentuckians, the most important mile they travel is from home to work, school or places of worship,” Gov. Beshear said. “Each dollar will support much-needed repairs and economy-boosting infrastructure upgrades to improve the lives of Kentuckians.”

To learn more, see the full release.

Team Kentucky All-Stars
Gov. Beshear congratulated Kentucky’s Class of 2022 and recognized them as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars, because of their resilience and compassion over the past two years during a global pandemic, ice storms, flooding, the deadliest tornadoes in state history and other challenges.

Gov. Beshear said, “You found ways to stick together, even when you had to stay physically apart. So, as you earn your degrees and diplomas, we want to make the celebration for you extra special.”

This year’s high school and college graduates will enter a record-breaking economy in the commonwealth: This year alone, Gov. Beshear has announced more than $3.9 billion in new investments, generating more than 6,700 jobs for Kentuckians.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 2, 2022) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear’s administration filed an emergency regulation to freeze the state gas tax and to prevent a 2-cent increase per gallon that would have taken effect July 1.

“Kentuckians cannot afford to pay more, and I am committed to doing everything I can to help keep more dollars in people’s pockets,” said Gov. Beshear. “This law was never intended to hurt Kentuckians during tough times, but with rising prices and inflation, this increase would have a negative impact on our families and it is time to take action.”

The state gas tax is set by statute, both in its rate and how it is calculated. The current rate of 26 cents was set to increase under a trigger, resulting in a price hike on both regular and diesel fuel. The Governor has looked for ways to relieve the financial burden on Kentuckians and asked the Department of Revenue to file this emergency regulation.

The funds collected through the state gas tax contribute to the Road Fund, which year to date is up 2.3%. Over the first seven months of the fiscal year, this action will reduce the budgeted Road Fund revenues by 1.6%. To make up for the lost road fund revenues, Gov. Beshear will propose using funds from the upcoming General Fund budget surplus. The budget for next year also includes a 21% increase in transportation infrastructure dollars from the federal government.

“This action to provide relief to Kentuckians will have no material impact on the transportation budget and projects,” Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray said. “All projects will move forward.”

The Governor also sent a letter to Attorney General Daniel Cameron today asking for advice on whether he should declare a state of emergency in order to activate the price gouging statute and further protect Kentuckians.

In addition to the executive regulation filed today, the Governor signed an executive order in February that immediately stopped an increase in vehicle property taxes caused by soaring used car values and proposed a 1% state sales tax cut that the legislature failed to act on. He also wrote a letter to federal leadership, calling on them to suspend the federal gas tax until the end of the year.
 

God's Food Pantry in Russell County will have a special food giveaway on Friday afternoon, June 3, 2022. The event will be open to everyone with many dairy products to be given away. The distribution will be held from noon till 4 p.m. The Pantry is located at 19 Dan Street in Russell Springs. 

Kenny Luttrell, a Russell County Constable, has been in the UK Hospital in Lexington, KY and has been diagnosed with Large B Cell Non- Hodgkins Lymphoma. Kenny & his family need our prayers and help to help pay hospital bills, family living expenses, and other bills. He has been a blessing to so many having served on the Rescue Squad and as a Law Enforcement Officer. A bank account has been set up in Kenny’s name at the Bank of Jamestown to help him and his family out. If anyone would like to donate go by any Bank of Jamestown location and they will put any donations where they need to go. Everyone say a prayer for Kenny as he battles this form of cancer.

Pamela Johnson, age 32, of Russell Springs was taken into custody by Deputy Golden with the Russell County Sheriff’s Office, just after midnight. Johnson was charged with Criminal Trespassing-3^rd Degree.

Timothy Eads, age 41, of Russell Springs, was arrested by Officer Parish with the Russell Springs Police Department just before 3:30 yesterday afternoon. Eads was charged with Trafficking in Controlled Substance, 1^st Degree, 1^st Offense (Meth), Drug Paraphernalia-Buy/Possession, Possession Controlled Substance, 1^st Degree, 3^rd Offense (Meth), Possession Controlled Substance, 3^rd Degree- Drug Unspecified and Drug Paraphernalia – Buy/Possession.

Both lodged into the Russell County Detention Center.

The Columbia City Council will have a Special Called Meeting on Friday, June 3, 2022 at 11:15amCT at City Hall.

AGENDA

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL
 

1^ST ITEM:   1^ST READING OF 2021/2022 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS.

2^ND ITEM:  REQUEST FOR APPROVAL TO ADVERTISE FOR INSTALLATION OF A SPLASH PAD.

3^RD ITEM: 1^ST READING OF AMENDMENT OF ORDINANCE 2016-01 ARTICLE XII, SECTION 1(a).

4^TH ITEM:  REQUEST FOR APPROVAL TO APPLY FOR SIDEWALK GRANT.  

ADJOURN

92.7 the WAVE wants to recognize and wish the very best to our Special Olympics Team that will be in competition in Richmond at EKU this Saturday for Track & Field...

On Thursday, June 2nd, 2022 the Russell County Baseball Team will be traveling to Lexington for the KHSAA Sweet Sixteen State Tournament. As a sendoff and showing of support, the team will be escorted to the county line by some of our local first responders. If you would like to line 127 with posters and cheers, it will begin at RCHS at 12:15pmCT and will end near the county line of North 127.

On Sunday, May 29, 2022 Deputy Kenny Perkins initiated a traffic stop on Jamestown Street on a 2007 GMC. During the stop it was found that the operator, Jon Hutcheson, was operating with a suspended license. Deputies also suspected that illegal substances were in the vehicle and called for a K-9. Columbia Police Officer Trevor Foster responded with K-9 Callie who gave a positive hit indicator to the presence of narcotics. A search of the vehicle resulted in a quantity of suspected methamphetamine, marijuana and cash being located.   
     

• Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st degree (Methamphetamine)
• Possession of Marijuana 
• Operating Motor Vehicle on a Suspended Operators License &
• Expired Registration Plates.

Aaron Rossok, 33, of Columbia, KY was arrested by Trooper Lunz with the Kentucky State Police just after 9:30 last night. He was charged with Reckless Driving, Improper Start from Parked Position, Obstructed Vision and/or Windshield, Excessive Windshield Tinting, License to be in Possession, No Registration Receipt, Failure to Produce Insurance Card, Failure to/Improper Signal, and Rear License Not Illuminated. Rossok was lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.