SPRINGFIELD, KY (May 31, 2025) – Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 received a call from Washington County Dispatch requesting assistance responding to a report of a tornado in the East Texas community of Washington County that resulted in the death of a Washington County man.

On Friday, March 30, 2025, at 7:39 A.M. EST, KSP Troopers responded to the 3200 block of Long Run Road to assist other emergency services personnel with rescue efforts after a suspected tornado touched down in the area. Upon arrival, Troopers learned that three missing individuals had been reported.  These individuals were subsequently located a short time later. All of the individuals affected by the tornado have been accounted for.

Ronnie Hill, 48, of Springfield, KY was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Washington County Coroner from injuries he received during the tornado.  Seven other individuals were injured and were transported to local hospitals. Detective Dexter Colvin leads the investigation into the death of Mr. Hill.

KSP Post 15 continues to coordinate with local officials in Washington County. Due to the remote location and limited roadway capacity, Long Run Road remains closed to traffic to ensure safe passage for emergency personnel and residents directly affected by the tornado. The closure is expected to remain in place throughout the weekend. The public is asked to avoid the area unless necessary. 
 

Troopers remain in the area during the recovery period to provide security and assistance to the citizens of Washington County. 
 

COLUMBIA, KY (05/30/2025) The Lindsey Wilson College education program has received straight A's on its version of a report card.

The college's education program has received a seven-year affirmation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, the national body that evaluates and accredits teacher-preparation programs.

Lindsey Wilson's education program has been reaccredited without any recommendations.

"This is incredible news because the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation accreditation process is very thorough and rigorous," said Lindsey Wilson Education Program Director Jennifer Antoniotti-Neal '98.

Antoniotti-Neal said the reaffirmation of national accreditation is also evidence that the Lindsey Wilson education program has "maintained its standard of excellence."

"As a Lindsey Wilson alumna who graduated from such a prestigious program, it's wonderful that we continue to maintain a level of excellence that has been built upon a very strong foundation," she said.

Antoniotti-Neal said that a big reason for the success of Lindsey Wilson's education program -- which includes more than 100 students in nine majors -- is because it includes an outstanding faculty with a diverse set of skills.

"We have an amazing team of faculty," said Antoniotti-Neal. "They all bring something different to the program, which gives our graduates the preparation they need to excel as teachers from day one in the classroom."

Lindsey Wilson education students also benefit from a strong academic experience outside of their education major, which further strengthens their resume.

"Our students know their content very well because of the classes they take outside of education and the cooperation our program has with other faculty members," said Antoniotti-Neal.

The connections students have with education faculty is another one of the program's strengths.

"The relationships our faculty have with our students are key because our students know if they have any special needs or are feeling stressed, our faculty members' doors are open to them," said Antoniotti-Neal. "That family atmosphere is one of the characteristics that sets us apart."

Antoniotti-Neal said the education program enjoys strong, supportive relationships with area schools, and it also works with a dynamic advisory council made up of educators from throughout the region.

Most Lindsey Wilson education majors graduate with either a job lined up or already working in the classroom. Lindsey Wilson graduated 46 education majors in 2024-25.

"Schools contact me before the semester is over to see if we have any graduates interested in working in their district," said Antoniotti-Neal. "I've already had 15 emails this week asking for our graduates, but almost all of our graduates already have jobs. Some of our graduates have jobs at the fall or spring break, before they have finished their student teaching because our partners know how strong our students are."

And Antoniotti-Neal said that it is not uncommon for schools to turn to Lindsey Wilson education graduates to serve as mentors.

"Our education graduates are sometimes asked to mentor new teachers from other programs because our graduates have such strong pedagogical and content knowledge," she said.

View Online: http://lindseywilson.meritpages.com/news/lindsey-wilson-college-education-program-receives-national-reaccreditation/52111

Russell County Jaycees President Brad Russell stopped by the WAVE Studio on Thursday and discussed the events coming up this weekend! 

The Jamestown City Council met in a Special Called meeting on Thursday evening and voted to make changes to road requirements in the City.

The Council voted unanimously to change the road width requirement to 14 feet with an additional 2 feet on each side, making the roads a total of 18 feet. The previous requirement was 20 feet with an additional 2 feet on each side.

The Russell Co. Fiscal Court will have a Special Called Meeting on Friday, May 30, 2025 at 11:00amCT. The only item on the agenda is "Russell County Transfer Station Opportunity". The meeting is open to the public.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 29, 2025) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced today (Thursday) that the state will accept applications for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) from individuals in six counties who are out of work as a result of severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes that occurred in Kentucky on May 16-17, 2025.

On May 23, 2025, President Donald Trump approved part of Gov. Beshear’s request for a major disaster declaration in response to the devastating May severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes. The declaration includes Individual Assistance for Kentuckians in Caldwell, Laurel, Pulaski, Russell, Trigg and Union counties affected by the May storms.

The Governor will request that additional designations and counties be added to the declaration through an amendment as ongoing assessments are completed.

Individuals – including unemployed and self-employed individuals who were living or working in the affected areas and became unemployed or had work interrupted as a direct result the severe storms that occurred in Kentucky on May 16-17, 2025 – are eligible to apply for DUA benefits through the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance.

DUA is available to individuals who: 

• Worked or were self-employed, or were scheduled to begin work;
• Can no longer work or perform services because of physical damage or destruction to their place of employment as a direct result of a disaster, which can also include the physical inaccessibility of the place of employment due to its closure by the federal, state or local government in immediate response to the disaster;
• Establish that the work or self-employment they can no longer perform was their primary source of income;
• Do not qualify for regular unemployment insurance benefits from any state;
• Cannot work or resume self-employment because of an injury as a direct result of the disaster; or
• As a result of the disaster, became the breadwinner or major supporter of a household because of the death of the head of the household.

In order to qualify for DUA benefits, claimants in eligible counties must show that their employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of the disaster and that they are not otherwise eligible for regular unemployment insurance benefits under state or federal law. Farmers and other self-employed individuals who traditionally are ineligible for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits may qualify for DUA.

To receive DUA benefits, the federal program requires individuals to provide documents, including a copy of their most recent federal or state income tax forms or check stubs, a bill showing their physical address at the time of the disaster and a photo ID. All required documentation must be submitted within 21 days from the date the individual’s DUA application is filed.

DUA is available for up to 27 weeks of unemployment beginning May 18, 2025, until Nov. 22, 2025, as long as the individual’s unemployment continues to be a direct result of the disaster.

How To File a Claim
Affected individuals should visit the Kentucky Career Center website at kcc.ky.gov or call 502-564-2900 to file their initial claim. The deadline to apply for assistance is July 22, 2025.

Updated information will be communicated on the Kentucky Career Center website and through future press releases with detailed information. DUA is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and benefits are not charged to employers.

Following the storms, the Governor urged local officials to start the federal Individual Assistance and Public Assistance damage assessments and asked Kentuckians who experienced storm damage to take photographs to document damages before cleaning up and to report those losses to their local emergency management officials.

Gov. Beshear also activated the State Emergency Operations Center and activated the state’s price gouging laws to protect Kentuckians from overpriced goods and services as they cleaned up from the severe weather.

The Jamestown City Council meets tonight (Thursday) in special session at 6:00pmCT. The meeting is open to the public.

The Adair County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public’s assistance to help identify these two individuals in reference to a theft case. Please call the Sheriff's Office at 270-384-2776 with any information.

A Russell County Grand Jury has returned several indictments. Lisa Clark has details....

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

RUSSELL SPRINGS, Ky. — Russell County Hospital, in partnership with the Kentucky Association of Health Plans (KAHP) — the trade association representing Medicaid managed care organizations and commercial insurers in the Commonwealth — today announced plans to launch a new Food is Medicine program aimed at helping patients manage chronic conditions through better nutrition.

This initiative will be made possible through a $300,000 grant provided by KAHP, funding $100,000 per year over the next three years. The program is part of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s broader Food is medicine initiative to improve health outcomes, support Kentucky farmers, and strengthen community ties.

“We’re excited to be at the forefront of this important work,” said Scott Thompson, CEO of Russell County Hospital. “By connecting our patients to fresh, local foods and providing hands-on support through education and check-ins, we will empower people with the tools they need to better manage chronic conditions like diabetes.”

The pilot will initially focus on a small group of outpatient clinic patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. These participants will receive disease-appropriate food boxes sourced from local farms and food producers, along with access to nutrition education led jointly by the hospital’s dietitian and the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service. In addition to clinical nutrition counseling during in-office visits, patients will receive follow-up calls from hospital staff to reinforce healthy habits between appointments.

"Russell County Hospital’s program embodies what Food is Medicine is all about: practical, local solutions that strengthen health and rural economies at the same time," said Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell. "Thanks to partners like the Kentucky Association of Health Plans, we’re helping Kentuckians live healthier lives while supporting our farm families — that’s the kind of investment that pays off for everyone."

Russell County Hospital will also track patient health indicators such as blood sugar levels at the start, middle, and end of the pilot to evaluate impact. Patients will leave educational sessions with not only fresh, Kentucky-grown foods but also recipes, basic cooking utensils, and the skills to maintain healthier eating habits over time.

"Through investments like this, we are making a real difference in the health and wellbeing of Kentucky communities," said Tom Stephens, President and CEO of KAHP. "Russell County’s program builds on the momentum of Food is medicine initiatives KAHP is supporting in Fayette, Floyd, Harlan, Jefferson, and Perry counties — and reflects our commitment to bringing innovative, patient-centered solutions to every corner of the Commonwealth."

The Russell County program is part of a growing statewide movement to integrate nutrition into health care. Under Commissioner Jonathan Shell’s leadership, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Food is Medicine initiative is working to connect patients with fresh, local foods as a tool for better health outcomes and stronger rural economies across the Commonwealth.

About Kentucky Association of Health Plans
Kentucky Association of Health Plans is the trade organization representing the Kentucky health insurance community. KAHP is a leader on issues that strengthen the accessibility, value, and quality of health care in the Commonwealth. Members include Aetna, Anthem, CareSource, Humana, Passport Health Plan by Molina Healthcare, UnitedHealth Group and WellCare. For more information visit: www.kahp.org or follow @kyhealthplans on X.

The Russell County Sherriff’s Office investigated the 3-vehicle accident on Tuesday afternoon, May 27, 2025 that injured two people. The accident occurred on Highway East 80 near the intersection of Bolin Road around 3:30pmCT.

According to the RCSO, 45-year-old Chasity Smith of Russell Springs was operating a 2017 Ford Focus traveling east on Hwy 80 when she crossed into the opposite lane and struck a 2003 Nissan Xterra, operated by 58-year-old Willie Rogers of Russell Springs. Smith’s vehicle continued further into the westbound lane and struck a 2000 Chevy van operated by 20-year-old Austin Padgett.

Ms. Smith was transported to Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital in Somerset, KY by Russell County EMS; Mr. Padgett was transported to Russell County Hospital where he was treated and released. Mr. Rogers and a passenger in his vehicle refused medical treatment at the scene.

Deputy Nathan Bradshaw is the investigating officer. He was assisted on scene by Sheriff Derek Polston, School Resource Officer Troy Young, and members of the Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department.

The Adair County Fiscal Court Budget Committee will meet at 9:00amCT on Thursday, May 29, 2025 in the basement of the Adair County Annex building, 424 Public Square, Columbia, KY. The public is invited to attend.

How much do you know about Adair County?

Come test your knowledge with Adair County Tourism and guest host, Mike Watson. From history to sports, themed drinks and lots of fun! 

Everyone is invited to Adair County Trivia Night at Anderson's by Mimi, 1411 Campbellsville Road, Columbia on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 7pmCT. 

Russell County School Superintendent Michael Ford tells Wave News about Tuesday's meeting...

On the left is the existing old tennis courts and on the right is how the marching band practice area could look...

The Eli Fire Department currently has items to distribute to the community who were affected by the recent tornado.

Items include:

Bottled Water

Cleaning supplies

Non perishable items

Trash bags

Paper products

Assortment of clothing

Tarps

Rakes

Shovels

Etc.

FRANKFORT, Ky. – A Mobile Registration Intake Center (MRIC) has opened in Russell County to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the May 16-17 severe storms and tornadoes.

The center in Russell County is located at:

Fairview Baptist Church, 2594 E. 2594 KY 80, Russell Springs, KY 42642

Working hours for this MRIC are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time, May 27-29.

This MRIC will operate in various locations until further notice and is in addition to the Disaster Recovery Centers open in Laurel, Pulaski and Russell counties.

The Disaster Recover Centers are located at:

Laurel County:

• Laurel County Public Library, 120 College Park Drive, London, KY 40741 

Pulaski County

• Center for Rural Development, 2292 S. Highway 27 #300, Somerset, KY 42501 

Working hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 - 7 p.m. Eastern Time, Sunday.

Russell County:

• Russell County Courthouse, 410 Monument Square, Jamestown, KY 42629

Working hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Saturday and 1 - 7 p.m. Central Time, Sunday.

FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs.

FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the May storms and tornadoes to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is July 23.

You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person assistance. No appointment is needed. To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362.

For more information about Kentucky storms and tornadoes recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4875. Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x.com/femaregion4.

Saturday, May 24, 2025 – Gov. Andy Beshear has announced that President Donald Trump approved his request for Individual Assistance for individuals and households in 6 counties affected by the most recent storms, May 16-17.

Those counties are Caldwell, Laurel, Pulaski, Russell, Trigg and Union. Additional designations and counties may be added at a later date if warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

On Tuesday, May 20 the Governor submitted a request to FEMA asking for both Individual and Public Assistance and hazard mitigation aid. Gov. Beshear remains committed to ensuring that families affected by the storms are cared for and get the very best service.

How to Apply: Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service – such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or other similar service – can give FEMA the number for that service.

Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC): Those affected can also apply at centers that have opened today in Laurel and Pulaski counties. Other sites will open soon. FEMA teams will also be walking impacted areas to meet with survivors. They will be dressed in FEMA attire and have FEMA identification.

Laurel County DRC
Laurel County Public Library
120 College Park Drive
London, KY
Mon – Sat: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sun: 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Pulaski County DRC
Center for Rural Development
2292 S. Hwy. 27 #300
Somerset, KY
Mon – Sat: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sun: 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

When Applying for FEMA Individual Assistance, Kentuckians should make sure:

• You upload your documents online via the FEMA App or by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Your damaged home is your primary residence.
• You haven’t received assistance for the same losses from another source, including insurance.
• You are able to be reached by FEMA at the contact information you provide in the application.

If you disagree with FEMA’s decision, you may appeal:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• In person at a Disaster Recovery Center, which more will open in coming days.  
• Or by mail or fax.

The Governor’s request for Individual Assistance for Christian and Todd counties as well as Public Assistance for cities and counties effected and hazard mitigation for the entire state are still under review.

The Columbia - Adair County Fire Department will have their annual WHAS Crusade for Children roadblocks in Columbia, KY on the following dates:
 

• Sunday, May 25th - 7am-2pm - Public Square 
• Saturday, May 31st - 7am-2pm - several locations 
• Friday, June 6th -12pm-6pm - several locations 
• Saturday, June 7th - 7am-2pm - several locations 

Please watch out for the firefighters and their families as they will be set up in multiple intersections across city limits. As always 100% of your donations come back to the community to help children with special needs.

The Columbia - Adair County Fire Department was dispatched at 12:05amCT on Saturday morning to 1425 County Line Road on a report of a structure fire. Upon arrival, firefighters found a residential mobile home with heavy fire showing. Firefighters contained the fire to the residence. The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.

14 firefighters were on scene for approximately 3 hours. No injuries were reported.

Assisting Agencies:
Adair County E911 Center
Adair County Ambulance Service
Taylor County RECC and
Kentucky Red Cross

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 23, 2025) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced that, thanks to approval by the federal government, healthy meals will continue to be provided to 450,000 Kentucky children while school is out this summer.

Each eligible student will receive a one-time benefit of $120 to purchase nutritious food throughout the summer. Support comes through the federal Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer Program, which began in 2024.

The program will automatically enroll students 6 to 18 years old who are current recipients of SNAP, KTAP or Kinship Care benefits, as well as children attending schools participating in the National School Lunch Program. For families with students not automatically enrolled, applications are available until Aug. 15 at kysebt.ky.gov. Assistance is also available by calling the Department of Community Based Services at 855-306-8959 or by visiting a local office.

“Every child deserves access to nutritious meals year-round,” said Gov. Beshear. “Building on last year’s success, our continued effort with this program is a crucial investment in our children’s health and well-being. I’m proud to see this growing initiative provide support to families when they need it most.”

“Food isn’t just a necessity – it’s a building block for strong, thriving communities,” added Gov. Beshear. “By extending this program, we are not only fighting hunger but also laying the groundwork for a healthier future for our families. I want to thank the many individuals and organizations who work tirelessly to feed our people through efforts like these.”

Last year, Summer EBT provided food benefits for nearly 400,000 kids in Kentucky. Providing families with grocery money to make up for the loss of school meals is a proven approach to address the spike in child hunger that occurs during the summer break.

For additional details on the Summer EBT Program and other food assistance options, please visit the CHFS website at chfs.ky.gov.

Today’s action furthers the administration’s commitment to solving hunger in the commonwealth.

At the height of the pandemic, the administration used funding to eliminate a waitlist for about 7,000 meals. In total, more than 5 million meals for seniors were delivered.

Last year, the Governor included $10 million in his budget proposal, in each fiscal year, to continue providing this nutritious food and to make sure the commonwealth never has a waitlist. And he has fought to protect tens of thousands of Kentuckians from having their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits cut by members of the General Assembly. Thousands of Kentuckians rely on this program, and 40% of the households receiving SNAP include school-age children.

AGENDA:

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 23, 2025) – Gov. Andy Beshear issued an executive order Tuesday afternoon that waives fees and suspends certain requirements for duplicate ID cards, driver’s licenses, vehicle registrations and titles in select counties to remove obstacles for Kentuckians in the aftermath of recent devastating, violent weather.

“We have Kentuckians that are hurting right now, and the last thing we need them worrying about is having basic essentials,” said Gov. Beshear. “In our darkest moments, it is the smallest acts that slowly restore the promise of hope. This is just one small step of many that we’re taking to help families recover and rebuild their lives.”

The order applies to Kentucky residents of Caldwell, Christian, Laurel, Pulaski, Russell, Todd, Trigg, and Union counties, and any other county included in a presidential major disaster area declaration or amended presidential major disaster area declaration for the duration of the state of emergency.

Residents will be able to apply for duplicate license credentials at any Driver Licensing Regional Office and for duplicate vehicle registrations and titles at their county clerk’s office. Associated fees will be waived. Office listings, license requirements, and other information is available online at Drive.ky.gov.

“This action ensures people aren’t burdened by unnecessary costs or paperwork while navigating the fallout from this disaster,” said Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray. “Team Kentucky is committed to removing barriers and helping communities recover until the job is done.”

The order reflects Team Kentucky’s continued commitment to supporting disaster-stricken communities with compassion and urgency. By waiving fees, the Commonwealth is helping ensure that storm survivors can regain access to transportation, identification, and essential services as quickly as possible without added financial stress.

Kentuckians who would like to donate to storm survivors may visit TeamKYStormReliefFund.ky.gov.

Unemployment rates fell in 81 counties, rose in 31 counties and stayed the same in eight counties between April 2024 and April 2025, according to the Kentucky Center for Statistics (KYSTATS), an agency within the Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet. Locally, both Adair and Russell Counties fell below 4% for April, 2025.

Woodford County recorded the lowest jobless rate in the commonwealth at 3.1%. It was followed by Fayette and Scott counties, 3.3% each; Jessamine and Todd counties, 3.4% each; Caldwell County, 3.5%; Boone, Bourbon and Harrison counties, 3.6%; and Campbell, Kenton and Oldham counties, 3.7% each.

Martin County recorded the state's highest unemployment rate at 9.3%. It was followed by Magoffin County, 8.3%; Lewis County, 7.7%; Elliott County, 7.4%; Wolfe County, 7.1%; Menifee County, 6.8%; Jackson County, 6.6%; Lawrence County, 6.5%; and Carter and Harlan counties, 6.4% each.

Kentucky's county unemployment rates and employment levels are not seasonally adjusted because of small sample sizes. Employment statistics undergo sharp fluctuations due to seasonal events such as weather changes, harvests, holidays, and school openings and closings. Seasonal adjustments eliminate these influences and make it easier to observe statistical trends. The comparable, unadjusted unemployment rate for the state was 4.4% for April 2025, and 3.9% for the nation.

Kentucky's seasonally adjusted April 2025 unemployment rate was released on May 15, 2025, and can be viewed here. The state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was unchanged at 5.2% from March 2025 to April 2025.

In that release, Kentucky's statewide unemployment rate and employment levels are adjusted to observe statistical trends by removing seasonal influences such as weather changes, harvests, holidays, and school openings and closings. For more information regarding seasonal fluctuations, visit the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics here.

Unemployment statistics are based on estimates and are compiled to measure trends rather than actually to count people working. Civilian labor force statistics include non-military workers and unemployed Kentuckians who are actively seeking work. They do not include unemployed Kentuckians who have not looked for employment within the past four weeks. The data should only be compared to the same month in previous years.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 22, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear provided an update on severe weather recovery, Recovery Ready Communities and declining highway fatalities. The Governor named all those helping with disaster recovery following the weekend’s storms as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

May Severe Weather Recovery
Gov. Beshear provided an update on severe weather that took place May 16-17 and hit South Central Kentucky particularly hard, with a tornado touching down in Laurel County.

“To those affected by this weekend’s severe weather, our promise to you is the same one we’ve made to each and every family impacted by natural disasters these past few years,” said Gov. Beshear. “We will rebuild every home and every life. We will keep showing up over and over. We will walk this road of recovery together.”

The Governor said the commonwealth has submitted a request with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) asking for Individual Assistance for eight counties and Public Assistance for 22 counties. This is an initial request, and more counties will likely be added as damage assessments come in.

The Governor said the number of confirmed deaths connected to severe weather remains at 19. The fatalities include 17 people in Laurel County, one in Pulaski County and one in Russell County. There are eight injured people at the University of Kentucky Hospital: three in critical condition, one in serious condition and four in good condition. 

Gov. Beshear reminded Kentuckians and anyone else who would like to help that the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund is there to support survivors, including paying for funeral expenses for those lost in the disaster. To donate, click here. So far, the fund has raised more than $1.3 million in donations from 5,735 donors.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is sheltering 31 people occupying 10 rooms. There are currently 14 individuals being sheltered by the Red Cross, 40 at Airbnbs and 65 households being sheltered by Praxel. Many more households are with volunteer organizations or self-paying. Team Kentucky is working to get more than 100 travel trailers set up at Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park. Five units are currently onsite being installed, and additional units are on the way.

Emergency clearance and debris removal has begun in the affected areas. Temporary staging locations and debris management sites are being identified and approved. At the time of the Governor’s briefing, about 1,201 customers were without power, down from a high of 172,711. Approximately 50 customers were without water, and 200 customers were under a boil water advisory. The Governor noted that these numbers are fairly standard for power and utility operations on any given day in the commonwealth

U.S. Highway 27 at Somerset reopened Wednesday afternoon following significant cleanup and emergency repairs. However, highway and power crews remain at work there, and the Parkers Mill Road intersection remains blocked where crews are restoring traffic signals. Crews continue to barricade roads and set up detours so power services can be restored in Laurel, Pulaski and surrounding counties. Visit goky.ky.gov before traveling to make sure your route is not affected by road closures.

Kentucky State Police (KSP) troopers and Kentucky National Guard members are providing 24-hour security patrols in storm-impacted areas to prevent looting. Only residents and authorized personnel will be permitted in these areas. At this time, KSP Post 11 has no reports of missing persons. If someone needs to report a missing person or request a wellness check, they should contact their local KSP post.

Updates On Other Severe Weather Events
The Governor also provided an update on recovery following other severe weather events that have affected the commonwealth in 2025. Kentuckians impacted by severe weather and flooding that began in Kentucky on April 2, have until June 25 to apply for federal FEMA aid. Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated counties can begin applying for assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling the FEMA at 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App. So far from the April event, 1,715 individuals have been approved for Individual Assistance, representing more than $14.4 million disbursed.

Also for the April event, Gov. Beshear announced Wednesday that Kentucky is expanding eligibility for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) to include individuals in 24 additional counties who are out of work as a result of severe storms.

For the February storms, Gov. Beshear announced this week that Kentucky’s request for a 30-day extension to the registration period for DUA for those affected has been approved and the deadline extended until May 27, 2025, for disaster survivors in all counties designated for Individual Assistance in DR-4860-KY.

Affected individuals should visit the Kentucky Career Center website at kcc.ky.gov or call 502-564-2900 to file their initial claim. The deadline to apply for assistance is June 23, 2025.

Also for the February event, the deadline is tomorrow, May 23, to apply for federal FEMA aid. More than 6,920 individuals have been approved for Individual Assistance, representing more than $44.1 million disbursed. Many Disaster Recovery Centers for the February storms will be closing over the next few days. A few will remain open for regional support and to handle appeals. Click here to view the hours and locations of the Disaster Recovery Centers for the April and February events. 

Team Kentucky recently received a denial for Public Assistance for ice storms in January. The Governor said his administration will be appealing this denial, as he believes the event meets all the statutory thresholds for assistance.

Four Counties Certified as Recovery Ready Communities
Gov. Beshear announced that Bell, LaRue, Marion and Washington counties are now certified as Recovery Ready Communities, bringing the total number of certified counties to 25. These new certifications mean that nearly 71,000 more Kentuckians have access to second chance employment; safe, sober-living housing; health care; and treatment. Counties are recognized by having established services for residents who are seeking help for drug or alcohol addiction in three different categories – prevention, treatment and recovery support. Marion County Judge/Executive David Daugherty joined the news conference to speak about the work his county is doing to fight addiction.

Declining Highway Fatalities
Gov. Beshear announced that highway fatalities in Kentucky decreased in 2024 to 707 deaths – down 107 compared with 2023. This marks the lowest number of highway fatalities in the last 10 years.

“These numbers mean fewer families have had to deal with such a painful loss,” said Gov. Beshear. “While this is a great sign, we know each person lost on our roadways is a tragedy. Each one is a child of God, taken far too soon. Let’s keep doing all we can to prevent tragedies – like buckling up, putting the phone down, driving sober and following the speed limit.”

Team Kentucky All-Stars
The Governor named all those helping in disaster recovery as this week’s Team Kentucky All-Stars.

“From our heroic State Police, National Guard and local first responders to our transportation crews, volunteers, local leaders, nonprofits and so many more: Thank you,” said Gov. Beshear. “It’s because of your service and your dedication to helping others that we will get through this together.”

• Jenna Snow Grant, who is a native of Columbia, KY and is a recent graduate of Belmont University in Nashville, TN will be showcasing her film: “The Crow” on Thursday, June 19th. There will be a reception and meet & greet starting at 6:00pmCT. 
   
• Lance Burton, local resident and Master Magician, will be showing his film: "Billy Topit" on Friday afternoon, June 20th. This will be a matinee showing for children with a reception from 4:00pm-5:00pmCT followed by the showing.

Campbellsville Police have received reports that items are being stolen from unlocked vehicles during the nighttime hours. Never keep anything of value in your vehicles, especially during the nighttime hours and ALWAYS lock your vehicles.  

The Jamestown City Park will be closed all day Saturday, May 24th, 2025.  They are having the entire ground at the park sprayed. If you have any questions, please contact City Hall at 270-343-4594.

On Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at approximately 11:30pmCT, the Columbia Police Department responded to a complaint of promoting contraband at the Adair County Regional Jail. Upon investigation, John M. Thompson, 45, of Columbia, KY was charged with four counts of Promoting Contraband First Degree and one count of Promoting Contraband Second Degree.

Officer Dustin Bunch is the investigating officer. He was assisted by Officer Elliot Smith and deputies from the Adair County Regional Jail.

From R.C. School Supt. Michael Ford:

TRAFFIC UPDATE – Pulaski County 

U.S. 27 is now OPEN between traffic signals #19 and #25 following extensive cleanup and emergency repairs caused by last week’s devastating tornado. 

While the road is open, work is still ongoing - expect intermittent lane closures and use extra caution when traveling through the area. Crews will continue infrastructure repairs over the coming weeks.

 REMINDER:
• KY 1642 (Parkers Mill Road) remains CLOSED at its intersection with U.S. 27.
• Access to Parkers Mill Road is available via KY 914.
• Traffic signal #22 at KY 1642 is currently inoperable and may be offline for several more days.

We appreciate your patience and caution as recovery efforts continue.

#KYTC #PulaskiCounty #TornadoRecovery

MacKenzie Minton honored as Distinguished Educator

Educators across WKU's service area have been honored as recipients of the 5th annual Distinguished Educator Awards! This initiative is dedicated to honoring the exemplary educators who serve as the foundation of Kentucky's educational system. These awards represent WKU's deep commitment to celebrating the outstanding contributions of current P-12 teachers across the Commonwealth--because there are never enough ways to say, "thank you."

This year's winners included...  MacKenzie Minton - Adair County High School

School districts across the region nominate standout educators each spring. Superintendents submit district-level nominations, which are then evaluated by a selection committee composed of faculty from WKU's School of Teacher Education.

Story from our Friends at Columbia Magazine 

With National Mailbox Improvement Week (May 18 - May 24), the U.S. Postal Service is encouraging customers to inspect, maintain, and upgrade their mailboxes to help ensure safe, secure, and efficient mail delivery.

“Customer’s mailboxes are the first point of contact for receiving birthday cards, letters, and important documents,” said Acting Postmaster and CEO Doug Tulino. “A well-maintained mailbox helps to ensure that every package and parcel makes it to its intended destination safely and efficiently.”

Each year, USPS designates the third week of May as Mailbox Improvement Week to encourage customers with box-on-post-delivery to examine and, where necessary, improve the appearance of their mailboxes. Through regular mailbox maintenance efficient mail delivery, enhanced neighborhood curb appeal, and improved postal service operations are better ensured.

Mailbox care tips

The Postal Service annually calls attention to Mailbox Awareness Week because of the wear and tear that occurs to mailboxes throughout the year. Some of the typical activities homeowners may need to do include:

• Replacing loose hinges on a mailbox door.
• Repainting a mailbox that may have rusted or has started to peel.
• Remounting a loosened mailbox post.
• Replacing or adding house numbers

Keeping security top-of-mind

USPS partners with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to keep postal employees, the mail stream, and the American public safe, prevent incidents through education and awareness, and enforce the laws that protect our nation’s mail network.

Tips to secure your mail include:

• Promptly pick up your mail: Try not to leave letters and packages in your mailbox or at your door for any length of time.

• Report mailbox vandalism: If you see someone actively tampering with a mailbox, immediately report it to the police.

If you know of someone who committed an act of mailbox vandalism, report it to Postal Inspectors at 1-877-876-2455.

LEARN MORE: How to Set Up & Mount a Mailbox

Extending mailbox reach through Informed Delivery by USPS

With Informed Delivery, customers can see photos of their mail before it arrives and receive notifications when it’s delivered. Customers can also get Daily Digest emails that preview their mail and packages scheduled to arrive soon. Additionally, Informed Delivery allows customers to track and manage their packages in one convenient place.

Informed Delivery is free, simple to set up and available to all customers who have a residential, business, or PO Box address in an eligible ZIP Code.

LEARN MORE: Informed Delivery by USPS

LONDON, Ky. (May 20, 2025) – After visiting the Laurel County and city of London emergency operations centers, Gov. Andy Beshear today provided an update on severe weather that hit South Central Kentucky particularly hard with a tornado touching down in Laurel County. 

“I promise that we will be there for our people until every home and every life is rebuilt. And I want to thank all our heroic first responders for the work they’ve done over the past few days,” said Gov. Beshear. “This is another incredibly tough time for Kentucky. And it’s another reminder that life is short and it’s our duty to be kind and do good. As always – we will get through this together.” 

The Governor was joined at the briefing by Director of the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management Eric Gibson, Laurel County Judge/Executive David Westerfield, London Mayor Randall Weddle, Laurel County Sheriff John Root and American Red Cross Bluegrass Chapter Executive Director Lynne Washbish, along with other local, state and federal officials or their representatives.   

The Governor said that, as of 9 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, there were 19 confirmed deaths connected to the severe weather. The fatalities include 17 people in Laurel County, one in Pulaski County and one in Russell County. There are eight injured people at the University of Kentucky Hospital: two in critical condition, two in serious condition and four in good condition.  

Gov. Beshear reminded Kentuckians and anyone else who would like to help that the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund is there to support survivors, including paying for funeral expenses for those lost in the disaster. To donate, click here. 

The Governor also updated Kentuckians on upcoming severe weather, as storms are expected today starting around 2 p.m. EDT in the west and reaching the eastern part of the commonwealth between 8 and 11 p.m. EDT. There is the risk of strong winds, hail and tornadoes, especially in the far west. With debris still on the ground, the incoming storms and high winds could create a dangerous mix of rain and flying debris.  

The Governor encouraged Kentuckians to be cautious and to consider not traveling during this time, especially in already damaged areas. Gov. Beshear said there is currently a NOAA Weather Radio outage for the National Weather Service in Louisville. Those who rely on the Louisville radio for their NOAA weather warnings are advised to find an alternative alert system.  

Gov. Beshear reported that he has consulted with local leaders in London, and they all agree that the hardest hit neighborhoods in London will need to be evacuated ahead of today’s storms. It is not safe to be near the debris with the high winds expected. The evacuation and sheltering of these neighborhoods will begin at 6 p.m. and continue until 11 p.m. EDT.  

For those in Laurel County, the Sheriff’s Office at 203 S. Broad St. in London will be sheltering people during the upcoming storms. A second shelter will be open at West London Baptist Church at 360 Parker Road in London.   

There are currently 20 people affected by the May 16-17 weather event in congregate shelter – 16 at Airbnbs and 65 in hotels. Team Kentucky is working to get travel trailers set up at Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park.  

Kentucky State Parks: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is sheltering 12 people occupying four rooms. 

Kentucky Emergency Management: Teams are continuing efforts to survey and document damage. The Governor also encouraged survivors to document damage. This documentation is how the commonwealth makes the best case for federal assistance. The Governor said the commonwealth has submitted a request with FEMA asking for both Individual and Public Assistance. This is an initial request, and more counties will likely be added as damage assessments come in. 

Power Outages: At the time of the Governor’s briefing, about 4,628 customers were without power, down from a high of 172,711.  

Water Outages: Approximately 60 customers are without water, and 2,108 customers are under a boil water advisory. 

Kentucky State Police and Kentucky National Guard: KSP troopers and Guard members are providing 24-hour security patrols in storm-impacted areas to prevent looting. Only residents and authorized personnel will be permitted in these areas. At this time, KSP Post 11 has no reports of missing persons. If someone needs to report a missing person or request a wellness check, they should contact their local KSP post. 

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: More than 200 transportation crew members from Laurel, Pulaski and surrounding counties have been working to clean up this weekend’s damage. This includes untangling power lines and resetting poles, removing debris and blocking and detouring roads so power crews can restore service. Don’t travel in damaged areas unless absolutely necessary. Visit goky.ky.gov before traveling to make sure your route is not affected by road closures. 

Ahead of the storm, the Governor declared a state of emergency. Gov. Beshear also signed an executive order that allows pharmacists to dispense emergency 30-day refills for any non-controlled medication. He also implemented the state’s price gouging laws to protect Kentuckians from overpriced goods and services as they clean up and recover from the storms. Consumers should report price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General. 

If you have immediate needs that are not life-threatening, please complete the Rapid Needs Assessment Form or call 502-607-6665. These needs include inconsistent or no power; individuals with medical needs or disabilities; no food or unable to cook; no or very little drinking water; unable to leave house due to weather and lack of transportation; phone issues; unable to leave vehicle; checking on a loved one; and more.

The Russell County School Board met on Monday evening. Superintendent Michael Ford has all the details...

The City of Columbia received donations of chainsaws from the United Cajun Navy on Monday morning.

In the picture are: Mayor Pamela Hoots, Street Supervisor Tim Smith, Chief of Police Evan Burton, and representatives of United Cajun Navy Kevin LaFord of Alabama, Brett Colston of Benton, and Alex Mirones of Crittenden.

Russell County Judge Exec. Randy Marcum has declared a "Local State of Emergency" due to the severe storms on Friday night that did a lot of damage to homes and property in Russell County....

Letter of appreciation from Judge Marcum...

An Adair County Grand Jury returned indictments on Thursday, May 15, 2025. The indictments range from attempted murder and child sex abuse to drug trafficking and more. Indictments are legal accusations and do not determine guilt or innocence.

The Adair County High School Class of 2025 will hold its graduation ceremony on May 23, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. CDT in the John Burr Memorial Gymnasium. Each senior has been given 10tickets for their guests to attend. All guests who are age four and older must have a ticket to enter. Doors will open at 6 p.m. CDT.

In addition to remarks from the Senior Class Officers, the keynote address will be delivered by Mr. JR Thompson, ACHS Business Teacher. The Adair County High School Choir will be performing Found/Tonight along with the National Anthem and the Adair County High School Band will be performing Too Beautiful for Words along with Pomp and Circumstance as the graduates enter. The Adair County High School Cadet Corps will be presenting the colors.

The Class of 2025 is made up of 206 students. One hundred fifteenstudents in the class have achieved a Latin honor academic recognition. Twenty-three students have earned a Summa Cum Laude designation (weighted GPA of 4.0 or greater), 43 students have earned a Magna Cum Laude designation (weighted GPA of 3.5 to 3.99), and 49 students have earned a Cum Laude designation (weighted GPA of 3.0 to 3.49). 

Additionally, 186 students in the graduating class have earned the designation of Postsecondary Ready. Postsecondary Ready students have met requirements established by the Kentucky Department of Education indicating they are ready to successfully transition to their next step after high school. One hundred twenty of these students have met the requirements for both Academic Readiness and Career Readiness, 42 students have met the requirements for Academic Readiness, and 24 students have met the requirements for Career Readiness.

The motto for the Class of 2025 is, “Chase your dreams but always know the road that’ll bring you home again.” The class chose You’re Gonna Go Far by Noah Kahan as the class song, the white rose as the class flower, and red, white, and blue as the class colors.

 

SUMMA CUM LAUDE - WEIGHTED GPA OF 4.0 & ABOVE

Trevir Andrews

Tristin Andrews

Blane Bardin

Kyrnan Bowman

Millie Brown

Lexi Dawson

Panasha Gecheo

Kloe Gordon

Easton Jessie

Kaydence Karnes

Jazlyn Kemp

Piper Kemp

Joseph Kotter

Connor Loy

Arraya Phelps

Kennedy Ray

Annabelle Robertson

Aaron Smith

Jadelyn Waggener

Bailey Watts

Carter White

Riley Yarberry

Andrew Zinati

MAGNA CUM LAUDE - WEIGHTED GPA OF 3.5 TO 3.99

Elizabeth Bair

Nathan Ballou

Isabella Blackaby

Natalie Brown

Shawn Campbell

Brandon Castrejon

Mason Coffey

Emma Compton

Brayton Coomer

Melanie Coomer

Gracie Gist

Zane Gist

Lauren Grant

Alyssa Hausdorfer

Marque' Hicks

Carlee Huckaby

Luz Jimenez

Jason Lemke

Zowi Martin

Michelle Medrano-Delgado

Gwendolynn Miles

Jayden Miller

Alexandra Murphy

Kaylei Neat

Josephine Newman

Alexander Perkins

Mercy Peterson

Sean Piatt

Charles Quinn

Kaylee Richard

Hailey Rowe

Mia Schneider

Sophie Simpkins

Hannah Slone

Trevor Speer

Gabriel Spillman

Kylie Spires

Grace Walton

Jaylee Willis

Dillon Wilson

Jada Woolridge

Chase Wooten

Molly York

CUM LAUDE - WEIGHTED GPA OF 3.0 TO 3.49  (RED)

Lilly Adams

Alijah Baerg

Dylan Baerg

Lucas Baerg

Dylan Baker

Jesse Balzano

Theo Bauermeister

Payton Bell

Adelyn Bennett

Emma Bottoms

Robert Bottoms

Jacob Boutte

Brody Brock

Andrew Butler

Jaysen Byrd

Madison Chapman

Elizabeth Coffey

Abigail Curry

Lashley Davenport

Johnathan Davis

Jack Fishback

Jacob Forster

LONDON, Ky. (May 17, 2025) – After surveying storm damage this afternoon, Gov. Andy Beshear provided an update on severe weather that hit South Central Kentucky particularly hard with a tornado touching down in Laurel County. 

“We’ve had more than our fair share of natural disasters in Kentucky in recent years,” said Gov. Beshear. “And while we can’t know why Kentucky keeps getting hit and it feels tough for our people to be facing this level of pain and destruction – one thing we know here in the commonwealth is how to come together, live our faith and values and help our neighbors in their time of need.” 

The Governor said that, as of 1 p.m. EDT Saturday, there were 18 confirmed deaths connected to the severe weather. The fatalities include 17 people in Laurel County and one in Pulaski County. 

First responders from Kentucky Emergency Management, the Kentucky National Guard, Kentucky State Police (KSP), the Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet have been onsite since this morning. 

Saturday afternoon, first responders were focused on search and rescue efforts. Anyone missing a loved one who is able to travel should go to Faith Assembly of God at 390 Faith Assembly Church Road in London and speak with the Kentucky State Police and Laurel County Sheriff’s Office. Those unable to travel can report missing persons to 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767), selecting option 4 when prompted. 

The Governor was joined at Saturday afternoon’s briefing by Director of the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management Eric Gibson, KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr., Senate President Robert Stivers, State Rep. Shane Baker and Laurel County Sheriff John Root, along with other local, state and federal officials and their representatives. 

Ahead of the storm, the Governor declared a state of emergency. Earlier today, Gov. Beshear spoke with federal Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and officials at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The Office of the Governor has been in communication with the White House. 

In the wake of the severe weather overnight, 7 counties and 1 city have declared states of emergency. 

Kentucky National Guard: Nearly 70 soldiers and airmen are assisting in Laurel and Pulaski. Guardsmen are assisting Kentucky State Police with roving and stationary patrols in Laurel County to enhance public safety. UH-60 Blackhawk crews conducted aerial surveys of Laurel and Pulaski counties to review damage and assess the area. 

Kentucky State Police: KSP telecommunicators have answered more than 4,000 calls for service since this morning. KSP troopers and officers are on the ground in Laurel County to assist the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office and the National Guard. 

Kentucky State Parks: Cumberland Falls and Lake Cumberland state resort parks have been activated to shelter those impacted by the severe weather. 

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet: State highway crews across the state went on call before the storm and responded overnight to downed trees, hail and tornado damage to clear roadways for emergency responders and rescue efforts. Chainsaw and backhoe crews continue to work alongside firefighters and police, clearing debris and assisting utility crews as they untangle lines and reset poles. Signal crews are working to restore traffic lights – drivers should treat dark signals as four-way stops. 

Emergency Shelter: First Baptist Church at 804 W. Fifth St. in London. 

Road Closures: More than 24 state highways are closed either from previous slides and flooding or from debris, downed power lines and current flooding. Visit goky.ky.gov before traveling to make sure your route is not affected by road closures. 

Power Outages: At the time of the Governor’s briefing, about 69,218 customers were reportedly without power, down from a high of 172,711. This number is constantly changing. 

Water Outages: Approximately 185 customers are without water, and 9,500 customers are under a boil water advisory. 

When to Call 911: If you have an emergency or life-threatening situation, dial 911 for immediate available assistance. 

Rapid Needs Assessment: If you have immediate needs that are not life-threatening, please complete the Rapid Needs Assessment Form or call 502-607-6665. These needs include: power is out or inconsistent; individuals with medical needs or disabilities; no food or unable to cook; no or very little drinking water; unable to leave house due to weather and lack of transportation; phone issues; unable to leave vehicle; checking on a loved one; and more.  

Emergency Prescription Refills: Gov. Beshear signed an executive order allowing Kentucky pharmacists to dispense emergency 30-day refills for any non-controlled medication. 

Gov. Beshear reminded Kentuckians and anyone else who would like to help that the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund is there to help survivors, including paying for funeral expenses for those lost in the disaster. To donate, click here.  
 

Kevin Williams presented a check totaling  $124,795.94 on Sunday afternoon at the Russell County ANC to the RC School District. That’s the amount of money raised this past year through the annual Kevin’s Kids concert. Funds will be distributed through Russell County Family Resource Centers to assist kids who need it, whether it's for hygiene items, clothing, school supplies, etc.

Williams said: "This is a banner year! We are so blessed in Russell County! I am grateful to all who contributed and who continue to support such a worthy cause. We are making life better for the next generation".

Here's a breakdown:

RC High School      $34,499.48
RC Middle School   $26,860.60
RS Elem.                 $26,486.96
Jamestown Elem.    $20,093.56
Salem Elem.            $16,855.34

TOTAL:                  $ 124,795.94

Tuesday, May 20, at 4:30amCT: Senior Sunrise - Location TBA

Wednesday, May 21, at 8amCT: Senior Breakfast - ACHS Gym

Wednesday, May 21, at 9:15amCT: Senior Walk-Through at ACHS, ACPC, ACES, & ACMS

Thursday, May 22, from 8:30amCT to 11amCT: Graduation Practice - ACHS Gym

Friday, May 23, at 7pmCT: Graduation - ACHS Gym

Friday, May 23, from 9:30pmCT to Midnight: Project Graduation - ACHS Gym

Tuesday, May 27, from 8amCT to 3pmCT: Diploma pick up - Front Office at ACHS

The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office is currently receiving a large amount of calls regarding scams after the devastating tornado. 

As a reminder, no one from the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office, or any other Pulaski County Emergency Service, will contact you by phone to request monetary donations during this time. Do not give out your personal identifying information or credit card numbers to anyone claiming to be with emergency services!

Press Release from the Russell County Coroner's Office...

SOMERSET, Ky. (May 18, 2025) - The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District Eight Office is continuing cleanup efforts in the aftermath of a powerful storm system that swept through Pulaski County overnight Friday. While crews have made progress in clearing debris, the storm’s damage remains extensive, and roadways, including a portion of U.S. 27 in Somerset, are still closed.

Motorists should expect delays and allow for additional travel time, particularly for the Monday morning commute. Alternate routes are strongly recommended as cleanup operations continue.

Traffic Signal Repairs and Power Outages

KYTC Traffic Technicians are actively repairing damaged traffic signals, prioritizing those where electrical service has been restored. However, many signals remain inoperable due to ongoing power outages. Along U.S. 27 in Somerset, signals #19 through #25 are currently non-functional and could remain offline for several days or longer.

Motorists should treat all intersections without functioning traffic lights as four-way stops and proceed with extreme caution.

Road Closures in Pulaski County

Due to severe damage, the following roadways are closed until further notice:

• KY 1643
• KY 769
• U.S. 27 from Bourbon Road (MP 12.2) to KY 914 (MP 13.7)

KYTC crews are working alongside utility companies and emergency responders to assess damage and reopen roads as conditions permit.

KYTC asks the public for patience as response teams continue to work in challenging conditions. 

Stay Informed

KYTC encourages residents to stay updated on road conditions and ongoing recovery efforts through official channels:

• Twitter: @KYTCDistrict8
• Facebook: facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8

KYTC District 8 is responsible for maintaining state highways across Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Lincoln, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Russell, and Wayne counties.

Kentuckians are reminded to buckle up and properly secure children in car or booster seats to keep themselves safe throughout the year and during the “Click It or Ticket” Campaign, which runs now through June 1st and includes the Memorial Day holiday.

“It only takes two seconds to fasten your seat belt – and those two seconds could save your life,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “We want everyone to buckle up, every trip. Let’s look out for one another and make sure we all get to where we’re going and come back home, safely.”

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s (KYTC) Office of Highway Safety (KOHS) is joining law enforcement around the commonwealth and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the annual federally funded high-visibility seat belt enforcement effort.  

According to the KOHS, of the 707 roadway deaths last year in Kentucky, 471 were killed in motor vehicle crashes, and 47% of them (220) were either not wearing a seat belt or were not properly restrained in a car seat or booster seat. Nine of the 471 deaths were children ages 9 and younger. One of the nine was improperly restrained. 

“Wearing a seat belt is the simplest, most effective way to protect yourself and the people you care about,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “Buckling up should be second nature – every time, every ride. It’s a small action that makes a big difference.”

According to NHTSA, despite typically low traffic volumes at night, fatal crashes nationwide are three times higher during nighttime hours compared to daytime. Of the 471 occupants killed in motor vehicle crashes, at least 185 occurred at night. Of those, more than 90 were unrestrained.

More than 110 law enforcement agencies throughout Kentucky have participated in the KOHS Click It or Ticket “Local Heroes” initiative to reinforce this message. Localized public service announcements (PSAs) feature officers, deputies and Troopers in counties with low seat belt usage rates and/or a high number of unrestrained motorist-involved crashes. The PSAs will air during the Click It or Ticket campaign beginning Memorial Day weekend. In areas without a county-specific PSA, statewide versions will air featuring various law enforcement agencies throughout the state.   

“Every decision behind the wheel matters,” said Sec. Gray. “Our goal is to prevent tragedy before it happens – and sometimes that means taking enforcement action to protect lives.”

According to NHTSA, when worn correctly, seat belts reduce the risk of death by 45% for front-seat vehicle occupants and by 60% for pickup truck, SUV and minivan occupants. Properly fastened seat belts contact the body's strongest parts, such as the chest, hips and shoulders. A seat belt spreads the force of a crash over a wide area of the body, putting less stress on any one part, and allows the body to slow down with the crash, extending the time when the occupant feels the crash forces. 

Visit kyhighwaysafety.com for more information. 

SOMERSET, Ky. (May 17, 2025) - Crews with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 are actively working in multiple areas following a powerful storm system that swept through portions of the district overnight Friday.

Maintenance crews worked through the night and continue to operate today to remove downed trees, clear debris, and address other hazards impacting roadways.

In Pulaski County, damage is extensive—particularly on the south side of Somerset—where crews are encountering numerous downed power lines and fallen trees. KYTC crews are working alongside first responders and utility companies to clear roadways and restore access to these areas as quickly and safely as possible.

The KYTC traffic signal crew is also responding to widespread damage. Technicians are prioritizing signal repairs where power is available. However, several signals remain out due to power outages. These will be addressed as utility services are restored. At this time, signals #19 through #25 on U.S. 27 in Somerset are inoperable, and some may remain out for days or even weeks.

Motorists are reminded to treat intersections without functioning signals as four-way stops and proceed with extreme caution.

Road Closures

The following roadways have been closed until further notice due to severe storm damage:

Pulaski County:

• KY 1643

• KY 192 (from MP 11.2 eastward)

• KY 1003

• KY 1675

• KY 1642 (MP 4.6 to 7.0)

• US 27 (MP 12.2 to 13.7)

Rockcastle County:

• KY 490 at MP 1.5

• KY 328 (MP 2.2 to 1.5)

KYTC asks the public for patience as response teams continue to work in challenging conditions. Updates will be sent out as more information comes in.

Stay informed on KYTC District 8’s response by following:
???? Twitter: @KYTCDistrict8
???? Facebook: facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8

KYTC District 8 maintains state highways in Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Lincoln, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Russell, and Waynecounties.
 

Banners are hung throughout downtown Columbia in honor of veterans in our community. The dedication service for the banners will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025 at 10:00amCT at City Hall, 116 Campbellsville St, Columbia, KY.

Veterans are from the Vietnam and Korean Wars as well as World War I, World War II, and active duty.

List of banners for 2025:

• Billy Ray Page
• Charles A. Thomas
• Maddox Cook
• Dannie M. Kelley
• Danny Hoover
• David H. Gaskin
• Douglas Baker
• Edwin M. Harmon
• Garnett Baker
• George Caldwell Jr.
• George Kenneth Staton
• Glenn Shirley Glasgow
• Golden Parker
• James E. Abell
• Larry Donald Parker
• Lee Harris Smith
• Marion Baker
• Mark E. Hutchison
• Melissa M. Brockman
• Pete Reliford
• Robert Jesse Loy
• Roger E. Burton
• Roger Huckaby Jr.
• Russell Perkins
• Sandford R. Green
• George Loy Jr.
• Toby j. Thompson
• Walter Ewing Humphress
• Walter Gene Hoots
• William Coy Turner
• William D. Brockman
• William J. Combest
• William Ralph Hoots
• Shane Lee Pollard           
• Harvey Dean Nash          
• William E. (Tootie) Corbin 
• William J. Burton               
• Ray G. Willis                      
• Charles Caldwell               
• Ronald Edwards                
• Eldridge Bragg                  
• James King                         
• Pamela King                      
• Leon Huff                          
• Benjamin Hadley             
• Sammy King                      
• Edwin Downey                
• Billy Fletcher                    
• Noel Hayes                      
• Hindman Loy                    
• John William Guillion       
• William O. Pendleton       
• Billy Sullivan                       
• Edward Grider                   
• Vernon Williams                
• William F. Keys                  
• Caleb Arnold                      
• Ronald Goetz                     
• Arlin Wheet                       
• George Claywell               
• Jordan Baker                      
• James Smallwood               
• John D. Lowe III                   
• William Phelps                      
• Herman Chelf                      
• William Feese                      
• Lucian Edwards                   
• Raymond Curry
• Francis McGowan
• Stanley Jones
• Clay Thomas Moore
• Wilburn Cheatham
• Ronald Cheatham
• Garold Russell
• James Gaskins
• Tom Andrew
• Willie Ray Foster
• Stevie Foster Graves Sr.
• Larry D. Huckaby
• Walter Ray Graves
• Ples T. Grimsley
• Ray Partin
• Larry T. Antle
• Danny D. Kearney
• Kenneth Bryant
• Robert Gossett
• Clifton Hadley
• Phillip Keltner
• Jimmie Dale Cox
• John W. Arnold
• William Billy Spoon
• Leonard Price Cheatham
• Felton Fudge
• James Wolford Grant
• Tommy Lee Scott
• Radius Brown
• Charles L. Cole
• Clay Jones
• Thomas A. Turner &
• Leslie Land

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 16, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency as a dangerous weather system is moving through the state this afternoon through tonight. Strong winds, hail, flooding and tornadoes are possible across much of the state.

“Once again we have a dangerous weather system sweeping across the commonwealth,” Gov. Beshear said. “We expect a significant round of weather coming this afternoon and into tonight that will produce strong winds that could lead to power outages, a possibility of hail, flooding and potential for tornadoes. We need everyone to be really careful and make sure you have weather alerts on and are at a location where you can seek safety if needed.”

The Governor is taking action by activating the Kentucky Emergency Operations Center, and units of the Kentucky National Guard are standing ready to respond. Kentucky Transportation Cabinet officials and crews are also on alert, and local emergency management leaders are working to keep Kentuckians everywhere informed.

Gov. Beshear also implemented the state’s price gouging laws to protect Kentuckians from overpriced goods and services as they clean up and recover from the storms. Consumers should report price gouging to the Office of the Attorney General.

Drivers are urged to check traffic conditions before traveling at GoKy.ky.gov.

For additional preparedness tips, visit kyem.ky.gov.

USA TODAY 10BEST is thrilled to report that Russell County, KY represents 1 of the nominees competing in the Readers’ Choice Awards that went live Thursday afternoon.

These are the nominees most relevant to you:

Best Lake

• Lake Cumberland

Best Lake for Water Sports

• Lake Cumberland

Readers can vote once per day for each award at https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-lake-for-water-sports/ until voting ends on Monday, June 2nd at 11:59am EDT. The top 10 winners, as ranked by USA TODAY 10BEST readers, will be announced on Wednesday, June 11th at noon EDT.
 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 15, 2025) – Thursday, Gov. Andy Beshear said the commonwealth has once again secured a new job growth record. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in April, the number of people employed, the number of filled jobs and the civilian labor force in Kentucky were at their highest point in the state’s history.

“More than ever before, we are getting people to work and filling more jobs,” Gov. Beshear said. “This is great news for our families, and it’s very appealing to companies looking to invest in the commonwealth.” 
 

April’s report confirms that Kentucky reached new highs for each of these three-monthly metrics:

• The number of people employed in April increased to 2,009,018.
• Kentucky’s civilian labor forcewas 2,118,333 in April 2025.
• The number of filled jobsincreased to 2,052,400.

Earlier this month, the Governor provided an update on Kentucky’s labor market and reported that not only have labor force numbers fully rebounded from the pandemic, but they are at their highest levels since the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics started keeping record.

April’s labor report, issued today, broke March’s record. The number of people employed in April increased by 2,550 from March 2025. Kentucky’s civilian labor force increased by 752 individuals from March 2025. And the number of filled jobs increased by 400 from March 2025. Estimates are preliminary and are subject to monthly and annual revisions. 

Earlier today, the Governor highlightednew investment in Kentucky’s workforce development initiatives to further maintain and advance the commonwealth’s thriving economy. Over 11,700 Kentuckians will receive skills training thanks to support provided through the Bluegrass State Skills Corp. that helps private-sector businesses establish industry-specific training initiatives.

Kentucky’s investment in workforce development builds on the best five-year period for economic growth in state history.

Since the beginning of his administration, Gov. Beshear has announced more than 1,100 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling over $35 billion in announced investments, creating more than 60,500 jobs. This is the highest investment figure secured during the tenure of any governor in the commonwealth’s history and $14 billion more than the next highest total.

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

Adair County School Superintendent Jason Faulkner with details on last night's meeting...

COLUMBIA, KY. (05/16/2025) Two Russell County High School students have received Lindsey Wilson College's most prestigious scholarship.

Addison Hart of Jamestown, Kentucky, and Luke Popplewell of Russell Springs, Kentucky, have been named a John B. Begley Scholar at Lindsey Wilson. The Begley Scholarship is a full-tuition, room-and-board scholarship that provides students with unparalleled academic- and cultural-enrichment experiences.

The daughter of Ryan Hart, Hart plans to major in biology and minor in chemistry to prepare for medical school with the goal of becoming a pediatrician. In addition to being a peer tutor, Hart was a member of the Russell County basketball, softball and volleyball teams -- "I've played every kind of sport you can imagine since I could walk" -- but she doesn't plan to play sports in college.

Hart, who has a perfect 4.0 grade point average, said she was attracted to Lindsey Wilson because of the atmosphere she experienced on visits to the campus.

"I was attracted to the personal attention offered at Lindsey Wilson," said Hart. "The people I met on campus were so nice. It just felt like I was surrounded by good people who would help me."

The Begley Scholarship is one of the most unique college scholarships in U.S. higher education. Begley Scholars take enrichment trips to Earnest Hemmingway's four "Great American Cities" -- Chicago, New York, New Orleans and San Francisco -- and take part in cultural learning opportunities alongside Lindsey Wilson President William T. Luckey Jr. and First Lady Elise Luckey, who serve as directors of the Begley Scholars Program. Regular meetings and discussions about current events are also held at the Emily Hundley President's Home.

Popplewell was familiar with Lindsey Wilson because his father, Tim Popplewell '05, and stepmother, Kendra Popplewell '06, gave him multiple opportunities to see the school while he was growing up. But Popplewell said he became even more impressed with the school when he sat in on a couple of classes, especially one taught by political science professor Matt Powers.

"I just loved the way Dr. Powers teaches his class -- very open, just a great guy," said Popplewell, whose mother is Susan Taylor. "His class really did catch my attention."

Popplewell -- who has been a member of his high school's football team, Sources of Strength Club and DECA Club -- plans to major in business administration with an accounting emphasis and possibly double major in political science.

Regardless of his major, Popplewell said it will be exciting to be at Lindsey Wilson this fall as a member of the first four-year class of Lindsey Wilson University, which the Luckeys reminded him when they called him with the news that he had been named a Begley Scholar.

"When I was talking to President Luckey, he said, 'Lindsey Wilson is like a rocket ship, and it's about to take off, and we want you on board,'" he said. "That made me feel like, 'Oh, my gosh, it's about to take off. I'm glad I'm going to be on the ship.'"

The Russell Springs City Council met in Special Session on Thursday evening. Mayor Eddie Thomas spoke with WAVE NEWS after the meeting and discussed what took place... 

As of 12:25pm on Thursday, May 15, 2025 the boil water advisory for Columbia Adair Utilities District customers from 9958-14364 Burkesville Road, Harrods Fork Circle, South 61, Independence Road, Independence Ridge Road, Greenbriar Road, Johnny Harvey Road, Dirigo Road, Edgar Janes Road, Breeding Loop, Reece Hurt Road, Shady Ridge Lane, Flatrock Road, Toria Road, and all side roads in between has been lifted by the Division of Water. This means your water is safe for human consumption. You no longer have to boil your water.

On Thursday, May 15, 2025, a 2-vehicle collision occurred on Greensburg Road near the Veterans Memorial Bypass in Columbia, KY. 

David Wolford of Magnolia, KY was operating a 2017 Dodge Caravan and was traveling from Greensburg Road onto the Bypass when he collided with a 2015 Ford Edge, driven by Vanessa Cooper of Columbia, KY. 

Both drivers sustained injuries and were transported to TJ Health Columbia for treatment. Ester Wolford, a passenger in the Dodge Caravan, was initially taken to TJ Health Columbia and later flown to a Lexington, KY hospital for further medical care due to the severity of her injuries.

Columbia Police Department Lieutenant Justin Cross is leading the investigation. He was assisted on the scene by Adair County Sheriff Deputy Gary Roy, Kentucky State Police Trooper Billy Begley, Adair County Fire Department and Adair County EMS.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 15, 2025) – In Pulaski County today, Rocky Adkins, senior advisor to Gov. Andy Beshear, cut the ribbon on the newly renovated Fishing Creek Bridge as it reopened to traffic to provide an improved, longer-lasting connection for the people of Nancy, Somerset and surrounding communities.

“This bridge has provided access for tens of thousands of families since the 1950s, and we’re excited to complete these renovations to extend its lifespan so it can serve many more,” Adkins said. “This project preserves the major strides we’ve made as a state, not just in transportation, but in how we support our communities and provide a New Kentucky Home.”

Adkins joined officials with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), local officials and community members at the Fishing Creek Bridge in Nancy to announce substantial completion of the $8.6 million project that modernized the bridge’s structural components while preserving its historic integrity. After a temporary six-month closure for the overhaul, the bridge is now open to traffic.

“Reliable, well-maintained and robust transportation infrastructure not only provides safe passage for Kentuckians – it connects them to opportunities,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “Today, we are fortunate enough to revitalize this bridge so it can continue to serve this community for years to come.”

The bridge, which carries Kentucky Highway 80 and more than 5,200 motorists daily across Fishing Creek, a tributary of Lake Cumberland, first opened in 1951. A renovation and repair project was awarded last year that included a new deck, rail, floor beams and connections engineered to ensure the safe passage for all motorists.

The bridge closed to all traffic Nov. 11, 2024, to expedite repairs. Additional repairs to floor beams were required during construction, which continued through the winter and spring, until the bridge’s opening today, 185 days later.

Although the bridge is now open to traffic, it is still an active construction zone while the finishing touches are made. Motorists are encouraged to stay alert and to drive distraction-free to protect workers, themselves and others.

According to reports, four vehicles were involved in the accident that occurred close to the Cumberland Parkway on Highway 127.

Police say a 2019 Jeep Wrangler driven by Ronda Salyer of Jamestown, had stopped suddenly behind a 2020 Toyota Tacoma being operating by Terry Colett Jr. of Mt Washington, who was backed up from the stoplight on 127 and Maple Street.

Charles Fletcher, of Russell Springs who was operating a 2025 GMC Sierra, was unable to stop in time and struck the Salyers vehicles. The Impact caused Salyer to strike the Toyota Tacoma, who then ran into a 2025 Dodge Ram 3500 being driven by David Kendrick Jr, of Harrodsburg.

Salyer and a passenger in the Tacoma, Terry Collett Sr, of Mt Washington, were transported by EMS to the Russell County Hospital.

The Jamestown City Council regular monthly meeting will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at City Hall. The meeting starts at 6 p.m. 

AGENDA
CITY OF RUSSELL SPRINGS
SPECIAL CALLED CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MAY 15, 2025
6:00 P.M.

PRAYER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
I. MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
II. ROLL CALL
III. ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
IV. ACCEPTANCE OF CASH DISBURSEMENTS & FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
V. OLD BUSINESS
VI. NEW BUSINESS
• RESOLUTION 2025-06: CDBG RESOLUTIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS – CAST 
IRON WATERLINE PROJECT
• RESOLUTION 2025-07: MUNICIPAL ROAD AID COOPERATIVE PROGRAM 
AGREEMENT
• RESOLUTION 2026-08: DONATION OF REAL PROPERTY TO ARC PREGNANCY
CENTER
• FIRST READ OF ORDINANCE 2025-06: BUDGET ORDINANCE FOR FY 2025-
2026 (SPONSORED BY COUNCILMAN HUDSON)
• FIRST READ OF ORDINANCE 2025-07: ADMENDED BUDGET ORDINANCE 
FOR FY 2024-2025 (SPONSORED BY COUNCILMAN BARNES)
• FIRST READ OF ORDINANCE 2025-08: CREATION OF A PART-TIME DEPUTY 
UTILITY CLERK POSITION (SPONSORED BY COUNCILWOMAN DANIEL)
• EXECUTIVE SESSION UNDER KRS 61.810(1)(B): DISCUSSION OF THE 
POTENTIAL ACQUISITION OR SALE OF REAL PROPERTY
• POLICE CHIEF DISCUSSION
• POLICE DEPARTMENT UPDATE
• ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT UPDATE
• MAYOR’S UPDATE
ADJOURNMENT

COLUMBIA, KY (5/13/25) - No sooner had the final chair been put in storage in Biggers Sports Center and the last discarded commencement program had been picked up and tossed into a garbage bin did Lindsey Wilson College employees turn their attention toward the summer months to prepare for several thousand visitors to Columbia-Adair.

More than a dozen major events are scheduled for this summer at the college, including athletic and theater camps, meetings and conferences of civic groups and religious organizations, and a couple gatherings of rising student leaders from the region's schools.

"We have an array of groups who will be on campus this summer," said Lindsey Wilson Director of Student Activities Stephanie Blackwood, who helps plan, coordinate and accommodate events for campus visitors. "We're pretty open to working with everyone and anyone we can, and we look for every way to accommodate them and their needs."

Economic impact

The college also started the summer with more than 180 students living on campus for a variety of reasons -- members of spring sports teams, student-teachers finishing out the school year, and students who chose to take summer classes on campus.

Including family members and friends who will accompany some campus visitors, Blackwood expects more than 2,000 people to be on campus this summer. Combined with another 1,000 people who will participate in events held at the Doris and Robert Holloway Health & Wellness Center and the incoming Lindsey Wilson students and their family members who will attend one of the five new student orientation days, the Columbia-Adair County economy should receive a significant shot in the arm this summer.

"It definitely adds up, between our summer students and guests," said Blackwood. "They all spend their money at restaurants, at stores and at area hotels."

A recent economic impact study commissioned by the Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges found that Lindsey Wilson contributes nearly $100 million annually to the Columbia-Adair County economy.

Summer sports

Director of Campus Recreation Tori Starks and her staff are ready for the summer athletic camps to start in early June in the Holloway Health & Wellness Center. In addition to the usual offering of basketball, soccer, swim and volleyball camps, this summer's athletic events will include a cheerleading combine that is expected to attract a large number of spirit makers from throughout the region.

"We have a very full schedule, all of which will contribute to a lot of activity on campus and in the community," said Starks.

Starks said that summer is also a popular season for area residents to hold birthday and pool parties in the Holloway Health & Wellness Center.

"We'll definitely have our share of birthday parties in the summer in the Holloway Center," she said. "They are very popular because we have a room right next to the recreational pool, which makes things very convenient."

The campus visitors Blackwood will work with, which will include the Center for Rural Development's Rogers Scholars and Rogers Explorers from the region's schools, will make use of the college's classroom buildings, residence halls and of course the Robert D. Cranmer Dining & Conference Center.

"Sometimes it can get a little bit crazy because we have constant movement in our office with so many things being held all over campus," said Blackwood. "But it's really a lot of fun. I love the chaos."

For some of this summer's campus visitors, it will be the first time they will have visited Columbia-Adair County.

"We will have a lot of people who will come to campus in the summer and say, 'I've never been to Columbia or Adair County before,'" said Blackwood. "So our summer events will introduce a lot of people from Kentucky and surrounding states to our region."

Once the summer season concludes, Blackwood and Starks will jump right into activities to kick off 2025-26 at Lindsey Wilson, the first school year as Lindsey Wilson University. And right after they get finished helping plan and execute Welcome Weekend activities on Aug. 22-23, their attention will turn toward the 2025 Homecoming Weekend, which will be held Oct. 23-25.

"I just kind of hold on from June until the end of October," said Blackwood.

View Online: http://lindseywilson.meritpages.com/news/Lindsey-Wilson-College-Set-to-Welcome-Campus-Visitors-Throughout-the-Summer/51673

WASHINGTON, DC – In recognition of National Police Week, Congressman Rogers visited with police officers from Kentucky who are in Washington, DC to witness the names of 18 fallen officers from Kentucky who have been added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Fourteen of those officers are from Eastern Kentucky, including eleven from Perry County alone. Congressman Rogers met with Perry County Chief Deputy Sheriff Jason Duff who is representing the Sheriff’s Department on Capitol Hill for the nation’s memorial events.

“Blessed are the peacemakers who serve and protect our communities. This week, we are honoring our brave law enforcement officers who maintain law and order at the federal, state and local levels, including those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. It’s humbling to see 18 names from Kentucky added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial,” said Congressman Rogers, Dean of the House. “We are voting on several bills this week that honor and protect the men and women who protect us, and I am proud to support each one.”

This week, U.S. House of Representatives is considering several bills that support law enforcement officers across the country, including: the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Act (LEOSA) Reform Act (H.R. 2243) allowing current and retired officers to carry concealed firearms in certain restricted public areas; the Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act of 2025 (H.R. 2255) allowing eligible officers to purchase their own service weapons after the firearm is retired; and Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness through Data Act (H.R. 2240), requiring the Attorney General to develop a report on violent attacks on law enforcement officers and recommendations for local response. Congressman Rogers supports all three bills.

In addition to ongoing legislation, the 2025 COPS Hiring Program is now open for state and local law enforcement agencies to apply for federal funding to hire more law enforcement officers and increase crime prevention efforts. Up to $156 million is available for this competitive grant program. Eligible police departments can apply online. Applications are due by June 25, 2025 and the grant program closes on July 1, 2025.  

The following Kentucky fallen officers’ names have been added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC:

• BURL W EVERMAN, Bath County, Kentucky, S.O.
• JOSEPH WOJTOWICZ, Lawrence County, Kentucky S.O.
• LEVI HALL, McDowell, Kentucky, P.D.
• LEM NOLAN, Perry County, Kentucky, S.O.
• RUSSELL WOOTON, Perry County, Kentucky, S.O.
• RICHARD JOHNSON CRAWFORD, Perry County, Kentucky, S.O.
• JAMES HOLLIDAY, Perry County, Kentucky, S.O.
• ROBERT H. NAPIER, Perry County, Kentucky, S.O.
• WILLIAM SMITH, Perry County, Kentucky, S.O.
• BOYCAN JONES, Perry County, Kentucky, S.O.
• ELHANON JONES, Perry County, Kentucky, S.O.
• LINVILLE H. MILLER, Perry County, Kentucky, S.O.
• JAMES CORNETT, Perry County, Kentucky, S.O.
• SAM FIELDS, Perry County, Kentucky, S.O.
• BRENT L. HALL, Pioneer Village, Kentucky, P.D.
• JOSHUA C. PHIPPS, Russell County, Kentucky, S.O.
• WILLIAM M. JACKSON II, Winchester, Kentucky, P.D.
• HUNTER S. MILLER, Frankfort, Kentucky Department of Corrections 

Click here for more information about National Police Week events on Capitol Hill.

Click here for more information on the 2025 COPS Hiring Program.
 
For more information about Congressman Rogers’ work in Washington and at home in Kentucky, visit halrogers.house.gov and follow him on social media. 

A BOIL WATER ADVISORY is in effect for Columbia-Adair Utilities District consumers from 9958-14364 Burkesville Road, Harrods Fork Circle, South 61, Independence Road, Independence Ridge Road, Greenbriar Road, Johnny Harvey Road, Dirigo Road, Edgar Janes Road, Breeding Loop, Reece Hurt Road, Shady Ridge Lane, Flatrock Road, Toria Road and all side roads in between.

The advisory has been issued due to a main line break.

Following such an event, the potential exists for bacteriological contamination of the water supply therefore this Boil Water Advisory has been issued as a precautionary measure.

Until further notice, boil all water used for drinking and cooking, bringing the water to a rolling boil for 3 minutes before using.

This advisory will remain in effect until the situation has been corrected and test results have shown the water to be of an acceptable quality.

For more information concerning the Boil Water Advisory, contact Bradley Miller at Columbia Adair Utilities District, 270-384-2181.

The LIHEAP Spring Subsidy program is currently underway for residents needing assistance with their electric bills.
 

For more information or to make an appointment, contact your local Community Action Agency:

• Russell County:  270-343-4565
• Adair County:  270-384-2147

Key details:

• Application Period:  April 15 - May 30, 2025
• Eligibility:  Income up to 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines 
• Application Process:  Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis 
• Required Documentation:  Proof of Social Security Number, income verification, and most current electric bill

The Adair County High School SBDM Council is currently taking nominations for Parent Members for the 2025-2026 school year. Nomination forms will be available beginning on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. Forms can be picked up at ACHS or may be downloaded at this link: 2025-2026 Parent Member Nomination Form.

Forms should be returned to ACHS by Tuesday, May 20, 2025. Parent elections will take place from 8amCT to 3pmCT on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at Adair County High School, 526 Indian Dr, Columbia, KY.

On May 13, 2025, the Russell Springs Volunteer Fire Department was called to a house fire at 345 Decatur Road. When firefighters arrived, the mobile home was already on fire. They quickly started working to put it out.

Fourteen volunteer firefighters helped fight the fire and were able to keep it from spreading to other buildings. They stayed at the scene for about 1 hour and 35 minutes.

We want to thank SKRECC for helping us while we were there.

“Our volunteer firefighters always give their best, no matter the time or the challenge,” said Fire Chief Bobby Johnson. “I’m proud of the hard work they put in every time they’re called to serve.”

County Judge Randy Marcum spoke with WAVE NEWS following the meeting and discussed what took place... 

On May 12, 2025 at approximately 2:43pmCT, Columbia Police Sergeant Trevor Foster conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle near the intersection of Fairgrounds Street and Waterworks Road.

During the stop, the driver, identified as Mathew O-Trevino Richards, 40, of Campbellsville, KY was arrested and charged with Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, 1st Degree (Cocaine). Richards was also served with an outstanding warrant issued by the Russell County District Court.

The arrest was made by Sergeant Foster with assistance from Officer Travis Bell of the Columbia Police Department.

From: Holly Trowbridge, Director of Federal Programs & Grant Writer for Adair County Schools 

We’re excited to announce that Adair County is one of 34 Kentucky school districts selected to participate in the 2025 Summer Boost: Reading and Mathematics Program! In collaboration with the Adair County Schools Summer Feeding Program, Summer Boost provides free books and learning materials that are designed to keep kids engaged and learning all summer long!

Families may pick up FREE Summer Boost materials while picking up FREE Summer Feeding Meals on Thursdays from June 5th-July 31st, 2025 from 2:00pm-4:00pmCT at Adair County Primary Center.

Contact the Adair County Board of Education at 270-384-2476 to find out more about meal service sites and how your child can participate in Summer Boost.

Let’s keep learning all summer long!

Pulaski County, KY Sheriff Bobby Jones reports the arrest of a Russell Springs man after deputies responded to a complaint of a domestic altercation where a cat had been harmed.

On Saturday, May 10, 2025 at approximately 3:03pmET, Pulaski County Deputy Noah Dishman responded to a report of a domestic altercation on Skyview Drive. While deputies were in route, they were notified that one of the individuals involved in the domestic had bitten the ear off of the caller’s cat.

Zachary L. Rollins, 22, of Russell Springs, KY was arrested at the scene and charged with Torture of a Dog/Cat. Rollins was transported to the Pulaski County Detention Center without further incident. 

After Rollins arrest, a warrant was filed by Deputy Marcus Harrison for a separate incident involving Rollins and the death of two other cats from April, 2025. The warrant was signed on Sunday, May 11, 2025 charging Rollins with two more counts of the Torture of a Dog or Cat, and subsequently served while he remained in the Pulaski County Detention Center. Rollins is being held with a combined $50,000 bond.

Two earthquakes were felt in Kentucky over the weekend. A 2.8 magnitude earthquake was recorded in central Kentucky near Nicholasville early Sunday morning. A day prior, on Saturday, a 4.1 magnitude earthquake in East Tennessee was also felt in parts of southern and eastern Kentucky. 

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the 4.1 magnitude earthquake happened just after 9 a.m. The quake was initially reported as a 3.5.

Its epicenter was reported near Greenback, Tennessee, which is about 30 miles south of Knoxville.

A 2.8 magnitude earthquake was recorded south of Nicholasville at 3:41 a.m. Sunday.

According to the United States Geological Survey, other cities affected include Danville, High Bridge, Frankfort, and Richmond, Kentucky.

The 2nd quake came less than 20 hours after the 4.1 magnitude earthquake was recorded in Tennessee and Southern Kentucky on Saturday.

That is two earthquakes over a 2.0 magnitude impacting Kentucky within a 24-hour timespan.

The Russell County Jaycees Fair begins Friday, May 30th...

As of 2:36pmCT on Saturday, May 10, 2025 the Columbia - Adair Utilities District boil water advisory for customers from 4172-4617 Campbellsville Road and all side roads in between, 360-705 Cane Valley Road,Vanhoy Lane, Murrell Aries Subdivision, Mary’s Drive, Monts Lane, 1402-1698 Keltner Road has been lifted by the Division of Water. This means your water is safe for human consumption. You no longer have to boil your water. 
 

Lindsey Wilson College counseling professor Hannah Coyt has always had a "passion to help." And she recently received a national award for her efforts over the years to strengthen and support the counseling profession.

Coyt was given the Leadership Excellence for Counselors by Counselors Award from the National Board for Certified Counselors, the national organization for counselors.

"I was just absolutely humbled by the award," said Coyt. "The reason it means so much to me is because I was nominated by fellow counselors in the field."

Coyt was presented the award because of her professional work on the national level, including with the Association for Counselor Education and Supervision, where she has contributed to that group's strategic planning and has led an emerging leaders program in the Southern United States.

She has also served on the Kentucky Board of Licensed Professional Counselors since 2020, including two years as its chair.

"I have never worked a day in my life," said Coyt, who earned her bachelor's degree, master's degree and doctorate in counseling from Lindsey Wilson. "I absolutely love, love, love being able to validate people. It's a thankless job because you don't get a lot of things like these awards, but I don't need that. It's just incredible to help people. You are in the right space when you feel like you don't have a job; it never gets old."

Coyt, who grew up in the Adair County community of Knifley and attended Adair County High School, said her career trajectory was influenced by family members who served in helping professions, especially her paternal grandmother, Stella Tucker. When Coyt was in grade school, Tucker often took her to work with her at Summit Manor Nursing Home in Columbia.

"I would go with her and talk to the residents, who loved the opportunity to talk to me," she said. "I remember just feeling so passionate about seeing them smile and seeing them feel like somebody was validating them. That's where I developed my passion to help others."

In addition to serving as a professional counselor, Coyt is counseling assistant professor and assistant director of Lindsey Wilson's nationally ranked professional counseling graduate program.

"A big reason we have one of the best counseling programs in the nation is because we are blessed with a faculty where their work is not just a job for them," said Coyt. "Our faculty are so focused on our students being as prepared as they can be for the profession when they graduate. And our students are very well prepared because I have counseling supervisors who seek out Lindsey Wilson students. That makes me extremely proud to be part of an institution whose graduates are so sought after by members of the profession."

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 8, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that highway fatalities in Kentucky decreased in 2024 to 707 deaths – down 107 compared with 2023. This marks the lowest number of highway fatalities in the last 10 years.

The Governor said the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) continues education, engineering and enforcement campaigns aimed at enhancing highway safety.

“These numbers mean fewer families have had to deal with such a painful loss, and it’s welcome news,” said Gov. Beshear. “By working together, we can ensure everyone traveling on Kentucky’s roadways makes it home safely. Let’s keep doing all we can to prevent tragedies – like buckling up, driving distraction-free and slowing down.”

Team Kentucky encourages all travelers – including motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians – to stay alert and make safe choices on Kentucky roadways. Whether it’s driving sober, crossing at designated crosswalks or wearing reflective gear while biking or walking, small actions can save lives.

Since nearly half of all reported motor vehicle fatalities in Kentucky involve unbelted drivers or passengers, Kentuckians are urged to buckle up – every trip, every time. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), you cut your risk of a fatal injury in a crash nearly in half by buckling up.

“We’re asking motorists and passengers to commit to safe driving behaviors when behind the wheel, such as buckling up, putting the phone down, obeying the speed limit and driving sober,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “This helps keep our roadways safe, not only for those in vehicles, but for all road users, such as pedestrians, bicyclists and motorcyclists.” 

According to KYTC’s Office of Highway Safety and Kentucky State Police (KSP), of the 707 fatalities, 47% of vehicle occupants were not wearing a seat belt and 19% involved alcohol. Approximately 33% involved speeding or aggressive drivers, and 22% involved driver distraction. Pedestrians and bicyclists accounted for 110 deaths and motorcyclists accounted for 96. 

“One of the hardest tasks for law enforcement is notifying a family that their loved one has been in a fatal crash. So, if we can potentially save a life by enforcing traffic laws, we’ll do it,” said KSP Major Eric Walker. “At the end of the day, it’s not about writing tickets; it’s about ensuring everyone makes it home safely.”

According to NHTSA, wearing a seat belt gives motorists the best chance of preventing injury or death if involved in a crash. Properly fastened seat belts contact the strongest parts of the body, such as the chest, hips and shoulders. A seat belt spreads the force of a crash over a wide area of the body, putting less stress on any one part, and allows the body to slow down with the crash, extending the time when the crash forces are felt by the occupant.

So far in 2025, preliminary numbers indicate 182 roadway deaths, down 17.27% compared with the same time last year.

In addition to encouraging safe driving behaviors, KYTC is committed to enhancing safety for all users through infrastructure projects and programs aimed at reducing deaths and serious injuries on our highways, roads and streets.

A wrong-way driving prevention project launched last year will bring technology to interstates in central Kentucky to detect and deter wrong-way driving in urban areas where it’s more likely to occur.

Additionally, KYTC has introduced safer road solutions by implementing roundabouts, Restricted Crossing U-Turns and other safety-focused designs in many areas across Kentucky to reduce the number of conflict points at intersections and reduce the risk of crashes.

Restricted Crossing U-Turns have transformed highway safety for areas such as the intersection of U.S. Highway 68 and Kentucky Highway 139 in Trigg County, where crashes declined by 64.5% over the last four years – a greater reduction than the nationwide 54% average for the design – and where fatalities decreased to zero.

Among similar efforts across Kentucky this year, work is underway on a $12.75 million Restricted Crossing U-Turns project along the high-traffic Richmond Road and Athens Boonesboro Road corridor in Fayette County that’s expected to reduce the number of crashes there and improve traffic flow.

To further enhance road safety, education efforts such as the Kentucky Safe Teen Driving Challenge aims to reduce teen driving crashes by promoting safer driving habits. Using an app that tracks behaviors such as speed, braking and phone distraction, participants receive feedback after each trip to help them improve their skills. Ultimately, the challenge helps ensure safer roads by equipping teens with the tools they need to become more cautious and aware drivers.

In January, the Governor announced the preliminary numbers which showed Kentucky was making major progress in reducing roadway fatalities.

Today’s news builds on the work Team Kentucky is doing to increase public safety and protect Kentuckians.

Last week, the Governor announced that overdose deaths in the commonwealth decreased for the third year in a row, with a 30.2% decrease in 2024 compared with the previous year.

The Governor also announced that Kentucky secured another low recidivism rate. Nearly 70% of people released from state custody over the past two years have not been re-incarcerated.

The 2023 Crime in Kentucky report, released in July of last year, indicates crime rates have remained stable with a decline in offenses for homicide, burglary, robbery, sex offenses, kidnapping and gambling. For the last three consecutive years, homicide rates have been declining.

Historical Kentucky Highway Fatality Statistics: 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 8, 2025) - Now that a new Kentucky law, House Bill 15, has taken effect allowing 15-year-olds to earn their driver’s permits, Team Kentucky is hosting events across the state on Saturday, May 17, to help meet the increased interest from young Kentuckians wanting to apply for a permit.

The state is offering more than 1,500 written permit test appointments at 20 testing locations across the state. Appointments will be released online tomorrow, Friday, May 9, at 1 p.m. EDT and applicants can select the time and location that best meets their schedule when accessing the portal online. Applicants can take the test in any county offered that day. These events will not include road skills or CDL testing.

“Since House Bill 15 went into effect with an emergency clause, Team Kentucky has been working to develop solutions to meet the increased demand,” Gov. Beshear said. “I appreciate everyone who has worked to host these events and make it easier for Kentuckians to obtain their permit.”  

To ensure a smooth signup process and reduce wait times on May 17, Kentucky State Police Driver Testing Captain Chris Baker encourages applicants to have all required documents ready prior to signing up for an appointment.

“The online portal for this event requires applicants to have specific information before finalizing their testing appointment,” said Capt. Baker. “If you want to obtain one of these appointments successfully, you must have your Social Security number, date of birth and address at your fingertips before logging in online.”

Prior to arriving to take their written permit test with the Kentucky State Police, Kentuckians should remember to:

• Bring all required documentation to take to your appointment so the permit test can be administered. Necessary documents include proof of identity such as birth certificate (not a photocopy), proof of Social Security and a School Compliance Verification Form. See Drive.ky.gov for full list and more info.
• Study the Kentucky Driver Manual, which can be found here. Should an applicant not pass the written test, they can schedule another appointment on the website.

“This is just one way we are working with KSP to provide improved licensing services for Kentuckians,” said Commissioner Matt Cole of Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Department of Vehicle Regulation. “License renewals, upgrades and other services are available at any of our 34 regional offices for appointment or walk-in customers, and we have new ways you can skip the line.”

The Governor signed House Bill 15 into law on March 25, which allows 15-year-olds to obtain their permit. State law still requires you to be 16 years old to obtain a license (intermediate). For more information about Kentucky’s graduated driver licensing program and requirements to move from a permit to an intermediate license and then to a full, unrestricted license, click here.

Last week, the Governor announced “Skip the Line,” a new remote renewal-based licensing alternative offered by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to help Kentuckians avoid waiting at Driver Licensing Regional Offices across the state. Those options for renewing your license include:

1. For those who can, visit an eye specialist, ask for a vision screening form and upload it to renew online at DLRenewal.ky.gov. 
2. Visit a licensing office, get a vision screening, receive a passcode, then return home to renew online at DLRenewal.ky.gov. 
3. Visit a licensing office, get the vision screening, fill out a renewal form on site without waiting and receive a temporary license via email. 
4. Renew by mail: Print and fill out the mail-in form at Drive.ky.gov and attach a completed vision form from an eye specialist. 

For more information about office locations, hours and services provided, visit Drive.ky.gov.

From Columbia City Hall:

It was brought up at the Monday night’s Columbia City Council meeting that there are continuing issues with parking on the Public Square.

We are requesting that businesses located on the Square to park in one of the City's public parking lots. This has been a complaint with several people attempting to find parking on the immediate Square.

The City realizes that parking is limited and we encourage everyone to work with us on this situation.

Lexington, KY - Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky (PCAK) has launched a newly redesigned website, pcaky.org, offering a modern, mission-focused platform designed to serve as a vital resource in promoting safe, nurturing environments for Kentucky’s children.

With a fresh design, mobile-friendly features, and easier navigation, the new site offers families, professionals, and community members powerful tools to help prevent child abuse before it starts. PCAK’s revamped online platform puts education, training, resources, and advocacy opportunities right at your fingertips, empowering everyone across the Commonwealth to take action and make a difference.

"Prevention is possible and it starts with education, awareness, and a commitment to building stronger communities,” said Jill Seyfred, Executive Director of PCAK. “Our new website is more than just a redesign; it’s a gateway to the resources Kentuckians need to protect our children and create safer, healthier futures for every family.”

What’s New at pcaky.org?

• A Resource Hub Built for You: Access free, research-based materials with ease. Whether you're a parent, a professional, or simply someone passionate about protecting kids.
• Toolkits to Take Action: Find step-by-step guides designed to help strengthen families, support prevention efforts, and build safer communities across Kentucky.
• Fresh Materials for Families and Advocates: From parenting tips to digital safety guides, new resources make it easier than ever to educate, empower, and engage.
• Connections to Trusted National Partners: Explore curated links to national best practices, expert insights, and additional support to amplify prevention efforts locally.

PCAK encourages Kentuckians from every corner of the state to explore the new pcaky.org, discover the latest tools and opportunities, and join in the mission to prevent child abuse before it happens.

Because a brighter future for Kentucky’s kids begins with all of us.

The following is a letter from Adair Co. School Supt. Jason Faulkner concerning school closure on Friday...

COLUMBIA, KY. (05/07/2025) A gift to Lindsey Wilson College will strengthen educational opportunities for Adair County residents.

The Bank of Columbia has given $20,000 to Lindsey Wilson, which will be used to support a scholarship and the college's operating expenses.

"The Bank of Columbia is proud to support Lindsey Wilson College and honored to partner with the college to provide the opportunity for our local students to further their education after high school in obtaining a college degree right here in their hometown," said Bank of Columbia President and CEO Mark Dykes.

The Tommy D. Grider Endowed Scholarship, named in honor of the longtime Bank of Columbia board member, will receive $15,000 of the Bank of Columbia gift. The Grider Scholarship is given annually to an Adair County High School graduate pursuing a degree in business or finance.

The remaining $5,000 is an unrestricted gift to Lindsey Wilson.

"The economic impact Lindsey Wilson College has on Columbia and Adair County is, to say the least, more than significant," said Dykes. "The Bank of Columbia owners, its board members and employees pledge continued support of Lindsey Wilson College in our community."

A recent economic impact study by the Association of Kentucky Colleges and Universities showed that Lindsey Wilson's direct impact on the Adair County economy in 2021-22 was $91 million. The college, which graduated a record 1,733 students in 2024-25, is poised to become Lindsey Wilson University on July 1.

Lindsey Wilson President William T. Luckey Jr. said that a big reason the college is a major drive of the Columbia-Adair County economy is because of the local support it enjoys from area businesses.

"Since its founding in 1903, Lindsey Wilson has been committed to serving this region's educational needs, and a big reason we are able to do it so well is because of strong partners such as Bank of Columbia," said Luckey.

Lindsey Wilson College is a vibrant liberal arts college in Columbia, Kentucky. Founded in 1903 and affiliated with The United Methodist Church, the mission of Lindsey Wilson is to serve the educational needs of students by providing a living-learning environment within an atmosphere of active caring and Christian concern where every student, every day, learns and grows and feels like a real human being. Lindsey Wilson -- which will become Lindsey Wilson University on July 1 -- has an enrollment of more than 4,000 students, and the college offers 28 undergraduate majors, five graduate programs and a doctoral program. The college's 28 intercollegiate varsity athletic teams have won more than 120 team and individual national championships.

The Adair County Fiscal Court will have a Special Called Meeting on Friday, May 9, 2025 at 9:00 A.M. in the Adair Annex Basement.

AGENDA:                 

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

PRAYER

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL 
          

 1.     APPROVAL OF AGENDA

 2.     DISBURSEMENTS

 3.     BUDGET TRANFERS
                  A.)   LINE TO LINE TRANSFER

                  B.)   FUND TO FUND TRANSFER

 4.     ACTION ITEMS:                                   

• MACK OR PETERBILT TRUCK/AUCTION DISCUSSION
• PERMISSION TO BID ANNEX PROJECT FOR $50,000.00 GRANT
• PERMISSION FOR JUDGE BRYANT TO SIGN ALL PAPERWORK FOR CRUMB RUBBER GRANT COUNTY WAS AWARDED

 5.     ADJOURN

The Columbia Police Department is happy to welcome a new piece of equipment to the department, a DJI Avata 2 drone. This drone was anonymously donated by a supporter of the local community and law enforcement. The drone is the same make and model that is used by various other law enforcement agencies across the state, including Kentucky State Police. The Avata 2 has a battery life of 25 minutes per battery, a range of 7 miles, and a maximum altitude of 500 meters, making it fully able to cover the entire City of Columbia under good weather conditions. The drone also came with DJI goggles and a joystick remote.  

Chief Evan Burton and another officer will be licensed in the operation of the drone, which will allow them to use it in various ways to keep the community safe. Specifically, those uses will include Traffic Accident Investigations, Attempted Recovery of Missing Persons, Barricade situations, Crowd Patrolling at large events, and other scenarios with surveillance and patrol. All of these uses will help keep Columbia Police Department officers safe, and better equip them to serve and protect the community.    

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

Russell County Schools is currently accepting sealed bids for various miscellaneous items.
·      One Colorpoint Serving Line  Model:  CPT-62-R  208V  Phase 1
·      One Cashiers Cart
·      Football Scoreboard
·      Former Area Technology Center sign
·      Former Union Chapel Elementary School sign
·      Miscellaneous bleachers/bleacher parts (all sold together)
·      Riding Mower  Scag Turf Tiger runs & mows
·      Riding Mower  Reelmaster 3100-D  runs & mows
·      Countertops (all sold together)
·      Junk metal (old dumpsters, metal frames, etc.)

https://www.russell.kyschools.us/our-district/surplus

The Russell County Board of Education reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids.

The Russell Springs boil water advisory for Highway 1870 and all side roads and Robertson Street has been lifted at 11:55amCT on Tuesday, May 6th. 

Columbia Mayor Pam Hoots and Tray Stephens stopped by the WAVE Studios on Tuesday and disccused Monday evening's City Council Meeting... 

Last week, representatives from the Kentucky Office of Highway Safety visited the Columbia Police Department. During their visit, they generously provided the department with two Alco-Sensor 3 Preliminary Breath Test (PBT) devices. These portable devices will be a valuable tool for officers on patrol, allowing them to quickly and easily assess a person's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) when they suspect impairment. This preliminary test helps officers make informed decisions in the field, contributing to safer roadways for everyone.

The Columbia Police Dept. would like to extend a sincere thank you to Rob Richardson and Kyle Stork from the Kentucky Office of Highway Safety for their continued support of the Columbia Police Department and their dedication to keeping the citizens of Kentucky safe. Their partnership is greatly appreciated!

There is a boil water advisory for Highway 1870 in Russell Springs, KY starting at Tonkin Drive to the Adair County line, Shepherd Drive, a section of Rose Street, a section of Gentry Mill Road, and all side roads. Until further notice, boil all water used for drinking and cooking purposes, bringing the water to a rolling boil for 3 minutes. The advisory was issued on Sunday afternoon due to a water main break.

A boil water advisory for Robertson Street in Russell Springs was issued on Monday morning due to a water main break. Boil all water used for drinking and cooking for at least 3 minutes.

COLUMBIA, KY (05/05/2025) Graduates at the final commencement weekend held by Lindsey Wilson College were reminded of the importance of community support during wartime and the transformative power of higher education.

At three ceremonies held on Friday, May 2, and on Saturday, May 3, in Biggers Sports Center, Lindsey Wilson awarded a total of 890 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees at its 121st commencement. It was the largest number of spring graduates in the college's 122-year history.

Combined with 843 degrees awarded at last December's winter commencement, the Lindsey Wilson Class of 2024-25 is a record 1,733 graduates.

Lindsey Wilson College will become Lindsey Wilson University on July 1, making this weekend's commencement the final group of graduates awarded a Lindsey Wilson College diploma.

"You will forever be the last class to ever graduate from Lindsey Wilson College," Lindsey Wilson President William T. Luckey Jr. told the Saturday morning graduates. "Although our name will change, the faculty and staff who have been pouring themselves into you will continue to do the same for the next generation of students."

But for this weekend, the focus was celebrating the graduates who were closing out the Lindsey Wilson College era.

"We don't just walk across a stage -- we walk into our calling," said Erin Kershaw Guy of Hendersonville, Tennessee, who gave the student address at the Saturday afternoon ceremony and graduated with a master of education degree in counseling. "And that the degree we hold today is not just a symbol of what we know but of who we've become in the process."

Support during the Ukraine-Russian War

At the Saturday morning ceremony, Anatoliy Voloshyn of Cherkasy, Ukraine, recalled in the student address how the Lindsey Wilson community has supported him and fellow students from Ukraine throughout that country's more than three-year war against Russia.

When Russian forces invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, Voloshyn said he was "gripped by an overwhelming fear for my loved ones, consumed by darkness and shock, and paralyzed by the gut-wrenching feeling of helplessness -- unable to protect my family, my home or my country from across the ocean."

"Over the past three years, I have seen my friends and people I grew up with being killed defending Ukraine," said Voloshyn, whose family members watched him receive a bachelor of arts degree in business administration with a minor in political science online from their homes in Ukraine. "One of my former coaches was killed in the first year of the full-scale invasion. Meanwhile, my parents have slept most of the nights in their basement, seeking refuge from Russian missiles. Each day I open the news to witness the suffering and pain my people are enduring."

Voloshyn said that "I don't know if I would have been able to endure all of this if I hadn't received so much help and support from our Lindsey Wilson community."

At Lindsey Wilson, Voloshyn said he found a place where people "care deeply for one another, where it doesn't matter where you come from or who you are -- you will always be welcomed and judged only by the rule of law and where you can become whoever you want to be."

'Part of someone else's healing'

At the Saturday afternoon ceremony, Guy said she also found support from the Lindsey Wilson community while dealing with personal adversity.

"What I found at Lindsey Wilson College -- not just academic knowledge, but personal transformation," said Guy. "This place, these professors and the people in this community helped me discover that I am not defined by what I've lost but by how I rise. That my story can be used to serve others. That my scars can become part of someone else's healing."

At the Friday evening ceremony, Ujjwal Bhattarai of Nashville, Tennessee, said in the student address that his Lindsey Wilson experience "unlocked something within me, helping me not only learn but also step into my own as a leader."

"Eight years ago, I took a leap, an adventure that brought me across oceans to this amazing country," said Bhattarai, a native of Nepal who earned a master of science degree in information technology management. "And you know what? I've genuinely loved every bit of it. From the cities to the quiet corners, the warmth of the people, the sheer variety of experiences -- it's been an incredible ride."

Press release from Adair County School Supt. Jason Faulkner on the passing of 6th grade student, David King, Jr...

The Kentucky State Police (KSP) announced the graduation of 33 cadets from the KSP Training Academy. These troopers will begin their new public safety careers in communities throughout the commonwealth.

One of the graduates, Sean Sweat, of Somerset, will be serving at KSP Post 15.

Cadet Class 105 arrived at the KSP Academy on Nov. 10, beginning 24 weeks of demanding instruction and hands-on training required to become a state trooper.

Cadet Class 105 underwent more than 1,000 hours of classroom and field study in subjects such as constitutional law, juvenile and traffic law, use of force, weapons training, defensive tactics, first aid, high speed vehicle pursuit, criminal investigation, computer literacy, hostage negotiations, evidence collection, radio procedures, search and seizure, crash investigation, drug identification, traffic control, crowd control, armed robbery response, electronic crimes, sex crimes, hate crimes, domestic violence, bomb threats and hazardous materials.

All the graduating cadets will uphold KSP's mission to promote public safety through service, integrity and professionalism using partnerships to prevent, reduce and deter crime and the fear of crime, enhance highway safety through education and enforcement, safeguard property and protect individual rights.

The Kentucky State Police remain committed to building a professional, diverse and well-equipped workforce that enhances public safety across the commonwealth. Cadet Class 106 begins August 10, 2025. Those interested in becoming a Kentucky State Police Trooper are encouraged to visit our website.

On Thursday, May 1, 2025, Columbia Police Officer Trent Williams while on routine patrol observed a wanted male subject on Greensburg Street. Officer Williams made verbal contact with the male, and at that time he fled on foot which led to a short foot pursuit.

Richard A. Sparks, 45, of Columbia was arrested for two outstanding Adair Circuit Court bench warrants while additionally being charged with Fleeing or Evading Police, 1st Degree (On Foot).

Officer Williams was assisted on scene by Columbia Police Sergeant Trevor Foster and Adair County Deputy Sheriff Derek Padgett.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 2, 2025) – First Lady Britainy Beshear and the Kentucky State Police (KSP) are raising awareness about human trafficking and educating the public on how to identify and report it. The First Lady said Kentuckians should stay alert and learn the warning signs, especially as Kentucky Derby weekend begins, bringing thousands of visitors and large crowds to the commonwealth.

“Every single person deserves to be safe – and to be free,” Mrs. Beshear said. “This weekend, as we celebrate one of our most special traditions, we also have the chance to change lives and save lives by staying alert for signs that someone is being held against their will or without full control of their choices. Remember, if you see something, say something ... because together, we can stop this horrific crime and look out for those who are most vulnerable.”

Human trafficking involves the exploitation of individuals through force, fraud or coercion. As many as 24.9 million men, women and children are sold into prostitution, domestic servitude or other forced labor around the globe.  KSP states that human trafficking becomes a higher concern surrounding large events due to the increase in both foot and vehicular traffic.

Kentuckians have a legal duty to report suspicions of children involved in the commercial sex trade to Kentucky Department for Community Based Services at 877-KYSAFE1 and to local law enforcement. Other concerns about possible trafficking activities should be reported to the National Human Trafficking Hotline: call 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. To learn more about the signs of human trafficking, click here. If there is an emergency, dial 911 immediately.

The First Lady is dedicated to raising awareness and supporting survivors, and she serves on the advisory board for the National Coalition for the Prevention of Human Sex Trafficking. In January, she joined Gov. Andy Beshear’s Team Kentucky Update to recognize Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Later that month, she also presented at the Frankfort Police Department’s annual Human Trafficking Awareness Training at the Paul Sawyier Public Library. In March, she visited Holly Hill Child & Family Solutions in Northern Kentucky, which provides residential treatment, therapy and other services for vulnerable youth, including some children who have been trafficked.

KSP has developed a cycle map to illustrate how human trafficking originates and perpetuates among victims, aiming to provide a clearer understanding of its devastating impact.

There are three primary forms of trafficking prevalent in Kentucky:

• Labor Trafficking: Victims are coerced into work to meet basic needs or fund drug habits.
• Sex Trafficking: Victims are forced into commercial sexual acts through threats, pressure or manipulation, often by someone they know, such as a romantic partner or family member.
• Familial Trafficking: Based on reports made to the Department for Community Based Services, the in Kentucky involves a trusted family member exploiting a victim for profit, often in exchange for drugs, money or other benefits.

“Human trafficking is not just a crime; it is an attack on human dignity,” said KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. “Traffickers prey on the vulnerable using manipulation, violence or deception, and we will target these individuals using law enforcement collaboration, intelligence and resources.”

In addition to the First Lady’s efforts to prevent and address this crime, Gov. Beshear has made fighting human trafficking a core mission during his time in elected office.

As attorney general, Beshear’s office established itself as the leading agency in Kentucky’s fight against human trafficking. He created the Office of Child Abuse and Human Trafficking Prevention and Prosecution, assigned staff to assist local law enforcement with resources in an effort to resolve human trafficking complaints and trained thousands of individuals statewide.

The Office of the Attorney General also arrested a historic number of child predators during Beshear’s term. He also created the Survivor’s Council, which provided a way for survivors of violent crimes, including human trafficking, to advise and assist the office on matters related to victims of crime.

Gov. Beshear signed Senate Bill 73 making sexual extortion a felony law and House Bill 207, strengthening the language in statute to include other forms of abuse and sexual exploitation of minors. 

Since taking office in 2019, the Beshear-Coleman administration has awarded more than $149 million in grant funding to victim service agencies and provided victim services to approximately 323,000 Kentuckians. In August, the Governor awarded $14.9 million through the federal Victims of Crime Act grant program prioritizing services to victims of child abuse, sexual assault and domestic violence; survivors of violence; victims of burglary, theft, drug and alcohol-related crimes; and elderly victims. 

In April 2023, the Governor signed into law Senate Bill 319, increasing award amounts, expanding reimbursement categories and adding caregivers to the persons eligible for reimbursement from the Crime Victims Compensation Fund.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 2, 2025) - The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources has completed its Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) surveillance and testing for the 2024-2025 deer season. Testing of 9,204 samples statewide found no new cases of the disease in wild deer.

Since 2002, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife has tested more than 60,000 deer and elk, with hunters providing most of the tissue samples for testing. Outside the fall hunting season, the department also collects and tests samples from roadkill and sick or found dead deer reported to the department throughout the year.

"We are grateful for the continued support of Kentucky's deer hunters, whose participation makes this possible," said Joe McDermott, deer program coordinator for Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. "Their contributions play a key role in monitoring the health of the state’s deer population and tracking the spread of CWD.”

To date, CWD has been detected in Kentucky twice: in a wild deer in Ballard County in November 2023, and more recently in October 2024 in a captive deer from a permitted captive deer facility in Breckinridge County. Just over 100 deer farms or high-fence shooting facilities operate in Kentucky. Captive deer and elk are legally designated as livestock in the commonwealth and are thus regulated primarily by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture.

A significant portion of the 2024-2025 deer season samples tested - 4,483 - were gathered from two multi-county CWD surveillance zones. These surveillance zones were established as a result of the two detections of the disease in Kentucky.

Chronic Wasting Disease samples were submitted by hunters via a variety of pathways, including CWD Sample Drop-off sites, CWD Sample Mail-in Kits, partnering taxidermists and processors and mandatory check stations operated by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife staff. Testing for the disease was free, and hunters can access their results online. If a hunter-harvested deer tested positive for CWD, the hunter would have been contacted upon confirmation of the disease.

Chronic Wasting Disease is a fatal neurological disease affecting the cervid family, including deer, elk and moose. The disease not only affects individual deer; it causes long-term effects in deer herd health. It can also adversely affect hunting participation; hunting is vital for keeping deer numbers in check on a large scale.

Kentucky’s wild deer population is estimated at around a million animals, which largely underpins the $2 billion in economic benefit afforded by hunting to the commonwealth each year. More than 300,000 hunters pursue white-tailed deer and elk in Kentucky annually, depending on this important source of protein for themselves and their families. Deer hunters also donate thousands of deer to Kentucky Hunters for the Hungry, which in turn supplies more than a half-million protein servings to shelters and food banks across the state each year. Chronic Wasting Disease thus poses a significant threat to Kentucky’s wild deer and elk herds, our culture and food supply, and our economy.

While CWD is not known to be transmissible to humans, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that hunters avoid consuming meat from deer that test positive for the disease as a precaution. Kentucky Fish and Wildlife also advises against consuming meat from animals that appear sick or unhealthy.

Plans for 2025-2026 CWD surveillance and monitoring will be presented to the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Commission at an upcoming meeting. For more information on CWD visit the Chronic Wasting Disease webpage on the agency’s website (fw.ky.gov).

Less than 48 hours before they will receive their LWC diploma, a dozen members of the Class of 2025 were symbolically welcomed into the nursing profession on Thursday night, as well as recognized for their accomplishments and achievements while studying for the profession.

The Lindsey Wilson Program of Nursing Pinning and Recognition Ceremony included a long-standing tradition held all over the world in which nursing students on the cusp of receiving their degree are presented a pin, a ritual initiated in the 19th century by nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale.

"This is a truly special group of students," Lindsey Wilson Director of Nursing Dr. Emiley Button told the audience gathered in V.P. Henry Auditorium. "I can personally attest to their exceptional character and camaraderie. They are a bright, cohesive cohort who have set a high standard."

After Saturday morning's commencement ceremony, Lindsey Wilson Class of 2025 nurses will have one more challenge -- sitting for the National Council Licensure Examination. Also known as the NCLEX, it is the national standardized examination for nursing licensure in the United States.

Separate from a college's commencement ceremony, a pinning ceremony is a "more personal event that signifies the end of the years of toiling in nursing school and getting ready to tackle the NCLEX," said Button.

'A passion for this career'

Button said this year's seniors have exhibited the qualities essential to being an effective nurse.

"Most nurses work long hours in challenging conditions, and the work can be emotionally draining," said Button "In order to be a nurse, one must have tough skin and a heart filled with love for nursing."

In his remarks to the nursing seniors, Lindsey Wilson Vice President for Academic Affairs Ray Lutgring reminded them that the profession of nursing is as much an art as it is a science.

"I know you've learned all of the science of nursing at Lindsey Wilson," said Lutgring. "But I also hope you've learned the art. Your humanity and your empathy will be just as important."

And senior Haley Cook of Russell Springs, Kentucky, said that is what she and her classmates have learned during their four years at Lindsey Wilson studying for a bachelor of science degree in nursing.

"We have not only learned the science of nursing, we have learned the importance of caring, of comforting and of healing," said Cook, who received the Elizabeth Lowe Whitfield Nursing Professional Development Award, which is presented by the nursing faculty to a senior who embodies the qualities and characteristics of a professional nurse. "We have faced challenges with courage and determination, and we have demonstrated resilience in ways that would shape us into the professionals we have become today."

Cook said that she and her classmates chose to enter the nursing profession because "we truly have a passion for this career" and have "a calling to serve, a desire to care and a commitment to be there for people when they need it the most."

"This dream we have shared to help others, impact lives and live out our calling is finally becoming a reality," said Cook.

Lindsey Wilson's 121st commencement ceremony will be held in three parts: at 6 p.m. CT Friday, May 2, and at 10 a.m. and at 2 p.m. CT Saturday, May 3, all at Biggers Sports Center. It will be the final Lindsey Wilson College commencement as the school will become Lindsey Wilson University on July 1.

***

The Lindsey Wilson nursing seniors who received their pins during ceremony were: 

Bailey Baker of Science Hill; Anna Burton of Columbia; Haley Cook of Russell Springs; Emilee Flatt of Columbia; Jaidyn Franklin of Glasgow; Savannah Gray of Jamestown; Ryan Higgott of Shelbyville; Hannah Holt of Russell Springs; Angel Marcum of Russell Springs; Payton Polston of Russell Springs; Destiny Whitaker of Somerset; and Jenna Wood of Somerset.

***

The Lindsey Wilson nursing awards presented during ceremony were:

Assessment Technologies Institute Highest Average Score: Haley Cook of Russell Springs;

Assessment Technologies Institute Highest Exam Score: Bailey Baker of Science Hill;

Elizabeth Lowe Whitfield Nursing Professional Development Award: Haley Cook of Russell Springs;

Lab Ambassador Award: Jaidyn Franklin of Glasgow;

Nursing Competency Recognition: Bailey Baker of Science Hill;

Nursing Compassion Recognition: Destiny Whitaker of Somerset;

Nursing Caring Recognition: Savannah Gray of Jamestown;

Outstanding Senior Nursing Academic Excellence Award: Bailey Baker of Science Hill;

Spirit of Nursing Award: Jenna Wood of Somerset;

TJ Samson TJ Pledge Award 6 C's: Emilee Flatt of Columbia.

ALBANY, Ky.  (May 2, 2025) – Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 Troopers responded to a two-vehicle injury collision at the intersection of US 127 and KY 558 in Clinton County on May 1, 2025, at 4:10pmCT.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Kayelyn Garrett, 21, of Livingston, TN, was traveling west on KY 558 in a 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe and approached the intersection with US 127. Ms. Garrett entered the intersection into the path of a 1999 Dodge Dakota traveling north on US 127, operated by Derek Guffey, 18, of Albany, and both vehicles collided.

Kayelyn Garrett was transported to the Medical Center at Albany, where she succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased by the Clinton County Coroner. Derek Guffey, along with a juvenile passenger in Ms. Garrett’s vehicle, were transported to the University of Kentucky Hospital with serious injuries. Two additional passengers in Ms. Garrett’s vehicle, Sierra Fulton, 23, of Monticello, and a juvenile, were transported to the Medical Center at Albany for treatment of minor injuries.

KSP Post 15 Troopers were assisted at the scene by the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department, Albany Police Department, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, Clinton County Fire/EMS and the Clinton County Coroner. Senior Trooper Trevor High continues the investigation of the collision.

The following story is from the National Association of Letter Carriers website: https://www.nalc.org/community-service/food-drive

Each year, letter carriers across the country head out on their routes on the second Saturday in May to collect donations of non-perishable food items to benefit local food pantries. Since launching in 1993, the National Association of Letter Carriers’ annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive has grown into the nation’s largest one-day food drive, helping to fill the shelves of food banks in cities and towns throughout the United States.

The need is great, but you can help. We invite you to join letter carriers and our partner organizations in the fight to end hunger in our communities by participating in the annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive.

Simply leave your donation of non-perishable food in a bag near your mailbox on the second Saturday in May, and your letter carrier will do the rest.
 

To determine participation, please contact your local Post Office. Together, we can Stamp Out Hunger in America. 
 

Riley Yarberry is a senior at Adair County High School and will be attending Morehead State University, to study agronomy and horsemanship. Riley is Adair Co. 2024-2025 FFA President and has future plans to return to the community upon graduating college to support the agriculture industry in Adair County.

Grant Adamson is a senior at Adair County High School and plans to attend Kentucky Community & Technical College System, to study to become a respiratory therapist. Grant is a member of the Adair Co. marching band and aerospace club. Grant also hopes to return to Adair Co. after college to help those in the community.

Jayden Miller is a senior at Adair County High School and plans to attend Western Kentucky University, to study business. Jayden is a member of the following clubs at ACHS; Pep Club, FBLA, FFA, BETA, and a student ambassador. He wishes to return home after college to apply his business knowledge to help small businesses in the community thrive.

Brayton Coomer is a senior at Adair County High School and will be attending Morehead State University to continue his athletic career playing baseball and studying business. Brayton is a member of the following ACHS clubs; FBLA, FFA, and Pep club. He looks forward to bringing back his knowledge and business skills learned to contribute to the Adair Co. community.

Benjamin Kingrey is a senior at Adair County High School and plans to attend the University of Kentucky, to study businessand pursue a career in accounting. Benjamin is a member of the following clubs at ACHS; FBLA, Academic team, Source of Strength, AC red hound (history club), Beta, science tech leadership program, and attended Governor's School for Entrepreneurs.

Aaron Smith is a senior at Adair County High School and plans to attend the University of Virginia to study finance and pursue a career in financial banking. Aaron is a member of the following clubs at ACHS; FBLA, HOSA, TSA, Beta, and was a Governor's Scholar. He looks forward to pursuing his education and the opportunities to come.

Kathy Sutton, 60, of Jamestown, KY was arrested by Deputy Bolin of the Russell County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday evening. Sutton was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance 1st degree (Hydrocodone), Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1st degree, 2nd offense (Meth) and 2 counts of Probation Violation (for felony offense). She was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 1, 2025) – New remote renewal-based licensing alternatives will provide Kentuckians opportunities to “Skip the Line” and avoid waiting at Driver Licensing Regional Offices across the state, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet announced. Options are now available using online, in-office and mail-in renewal forms.

“We’re working to do everything we can to provide alternative options for Kentuckians and reduce wait times at our Driver Licensing Regional Offices,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “We encourage everyone to make a plan and skip the line if they can.”

In recent months, Kentucky’s licensing offices have experienced significant increases of in-office visits as customers come to renew a license, obtain a REAL ID or take advantage of free vision screenings now required by law.

The Transportation Cabinet has been adding staff, implementing new line-management technology and adjusting procedures to make it easier for many customers to return to remote renewal options and avoid unnecessary waits.

Those “Skip the Line” renewal options include:

1. For those who can, visit an eye specialist, ask for a vision screening form and upload it to renew online at DLRenewal.ky.gov.
2. Visit a licensing office, get a vision screening, receive a passcode, then return home to renew online at DLRenewal.ky.gov.
3. Visit a licensing office, get the vision screening, fill out a renewal form on site without waiting and receive a temporary license via email.
4. Renew by mail: Print and fill out the mail-in form at Drive.ky.gov and attach a completed vision form from an eye specialist.

“We understand the frustration of lines and want everyone to know what’s available to save them the time and hassle of unnecessary waits,” said Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray. “Since 2020, when lawmakers shifted licensing from circuit court clerks to our cabinet, our professional licensing staff have set up 34 regional offices and are committed to caring for their customers, issuing over 1.1 million permits, driver licenses, CDLs, Real IDs, motorcycle licenses and ID cards each year.” 

Some customers might still need to visit licensing offices if they: 

• Need to upgrade or apply for a REAL ID;
• Change the address, marital status or photo on your license;
• Need CDL, hearing or noncitizen services; or
• Are a new Kentucky driver, and need a permit or license after passing a Kentucky State Police-administered test.

With less than a week until the May 7 REAL ID enforcement, the Transportation Cabinet is also reminding Kentuckians that this is not a deadline, but a federal enforcement date. Customers can still get one any time after that date and they have other options. Forms of REAL ID accepted by the TSA to fly or visit military bases include a U.S. passport, passport card, global entry card, military ID, Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) and others. See TSA.gov for a full list.

For more information on licensing, documentation requirements for REAL ID, and a list of 34 regional offices anyone may visit by appointment or as a walk-in customer, visit drive.ky.gov. 

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 1, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that overdose deaths in the commonwealth decreased for the third year in a row, with a 30.2% decrease in 2024 compared with the previous year.

Among Black Kentucky residents, which had not previously seen a decrease, 170 died from a drug overdose, a decrease from 271 in 2023, marking a 37.3% decrease. According to the 2024 Kentucky Drug Overdose Fatality Report, 1,410 Kentuckians lost their lives last year to a drug overdose.

Fentanyl was present in 62.3% of overdose deaths, and methamphetamine was present in 50.8% of overdose deaths. The two continue to be the most prevalent drugs contributing to overdose deaths in the state. The report also indicates that most Kentucky age groups saw a decrease in overdose deaths, with the only increase being among those ages 75-84.

“I am thankful that more Kentuckians are alive and in recovery today compared with last year,” Gov. Beshear said. “But we still mourn and grieve our 1,410 Kentuckians who lost their life last year to addiction and the many more who we lost before that. Every life lost is a child of God, and someone’s mom, dad, son, daughter and loved one. We won’t stop until every Kentuckian is saved from addiction.”

In 2023, Kentucky reported a 9.8% decrease compared with 2022. In 2022, there was a decrease of 2.5% from 2021, marking the first year Kentucky saw a decrease in overdose deaths since 2018. By working together, the Governor said, Kentucky is saving lives. He credited the state’s continued decline in overdose deaths to several factors including:

• More than $29.7 million was distributed in grant and pass-through funding from the Office of Drug Control Policy;
• 170,000 doses of Narcan were distributed;
• 84 syringe exchange program sites served 27,799 unique participants;
• More than 142,310 Kentuckians received addiction services through Medicaid;
• More than 17,390 Kentuckians received addiction treatment paid for by the Kentucky Opioid Response Effort;
• More than 17,980 Kentuckians received recovery services (housing assistance, employment services, transportation, basic need services, etc.) in their community paid for by the Kentucky Opioid Response Effort;
• 19 Kentuckians sought treatment through the Kentucky State Police Angel Initiative;
• More than 3,320 incoming calls were made to the KY HELP Call Center with more than 14,080 outgoing follow upcalls; and
• 21 counties are now certified as Recovery Ready Communities representing nearly 1.5 million Kentuckians.

“Today’s announcement is made possible by every state agency, local community, health department, addiction treatment program and advocate who has put politics aside and fought for our Kentuckians to obtain recovery. Thank you for moving Kentucky forward and doing this good work,” said Office of Drug Control Policy Executive Director Van Ingram. “If you are a family member of one of the Kentuckians who lost their lives to an overdose last year, we are praying for you and will continue this work in your loved one’s honor.”

Brandon Fitch, program administrator for recovery services with the Kentucky Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities, said: “Kentucky’s commitment to recovery is saving lives across our commonwealth – and I’m one of them. The state invested in me when I needed it most, and now I’m honored to give back through my work. Recovery isn’t just possible – it’s happening.”

The Governor has continued to fight the state’s drug epidemic since his time as attorney general, when he led the nation in the number of individual opioid lawsuits filed by an attorney general. Now, Gov. Beshear is working to make sure the hundreds of millions of dollars in settlement funds go to treatment and the communities impacted.

Recently, Gov. Beshear announced that Kentucky secured another low recidivism rate. Nearly 70% of people released from state custody over the past two years have not been re-incarcerated. 

The state’s Treatment Access Program also allows those without health insurance to enter residential treatment, and the Recovery Ready certification helps communities support residents who are seeking help for drug or alcohol addiction. The Beshear-Coleman administration created a website to help people in recovery find housing, FindRecoveryHousingNowKY.org, and a website to support Kentuckians seeking second chances find a job, get an education or continue recovery, SecondChance.ky.gov. The site also connects business leaders with resources to help them hire second-chance talent.

Treatment Resources
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, the KY HELP Call Center can connect you to treatment by calling 833-8KY-HELP (833-859-4357).

Information about treatment programs all across the commonwealth is available at FindHelpNowKy.org. Information on how to obtain the life-saving drug naloxone, which is used to reverse an opioid overdose, can be found at that website as well as at FindNaloxoneNowKy.org and FindMentalHealthNowKy.org.

Visit the Kentucky State Police website to find one of KSP’s 16 posts where those suffering from addiction can be paired with a local officer who will assist with locating an appropriate treatment program. The Angel Initiative is completely voluntary, and individuals will not be arrested or charged with any violations if they agree to participate in treatment. 

About the Report
The 2024 Kentucky Overdose Fatality Report is compiled by the Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center using data from the Office of Vital Statistics, the Office of the State Medical Examiner and Kentucky’s coroners. These numbers are subject to change.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report includes both the deaths of Kentucky residents and nonresidents in their reporting. Kentucky’s overdose report includes only the deaths of Kentucky residents, which has been the standard since the Kentucky General Assembly first required this annual report. The Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy includes resident deaths only to better target harm reduction and prevention activities for Kentuckians.
 

Ernest Foley, 57, of Russell Springs was arrested by Officer Wesley with the Jamestown Police Department on Wednesday afternoon. Foley was charged with Theft by Unlawful Taking or Disposition greater than $1,000 but less than $10,000. He was lodged in the Russell County Detention Center.

Mayor Eddie Thomas released this statement on Social Media Wednesday...