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Daily News for
Tuesday, June 2, 2026
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Pamela Diane Newton, 66, Taylor County, KY

Pamela Diane Newton, 66, of Campbellsville, Kentucky, passed away on May 30, 2026, entering her next life surrounded by loved ones.

She was born on December 22, 1959, to Glen Allen Newton and Alma Lucille (Wise) Newton. She is preceded in death by them as well as her two sons, Ernest Tyler Akins and Jonathan Glen Harmon. She was a loud and proud follower of Christ.


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2026-06-02 22:10:33 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries

<-Previous PhotoPhoto 1 of 11Next Photo->
Making the summer reading program fun



2026-06-02 - Columbia, KY - Photo from the ACPL.
These heroes are leading the summer reading program at the Adair County Public Library. This year's theme is "Unearth a Story! Stop by from 10amCT to 3:30pmCT to sign up for "Unearth a Story! Summer Reading 2026".

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Delila Christine Russell, 41, Russell County, KY

Delila Christine Russell, 41, of Russell Springs, passed away Sunday, May 31, 2026.

She was born in Somerset, KY on August 17, 1984, a daughter of Rita (Ashbrook) Campbell, of Russell Springs, KY and Roger Russell, of Jamestown, KY.


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2026-06-02 22:08:54 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries

Tales from the UP: King, the Malamute

By Donna Rieder

My grandparents lived, and raised 7 kids, in a three-room house next to where the Ford River fed into Lake Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It was a wood-frame house with tarpaper covering both the roof and sides. The first room was the kitchen, and it was the only room that had paneling on the inside, painted bright white. The other two rooms, bedrooms, did not have wood on the inside; the framing was visible, and where there were knot-holes in the wood, the tarpaper that covered the outside of the house was visible.

The kitchen had a small table that was pushed against one wall, with two chairs on one side and a chair at each end. The doorway going into the middle room, which was Nana and Grandpa's bedroom, had a blanket nailed over the opening. The inside wall of the kitchen had open shelving for pots, pans and dishes, and a huge wood-burning cookstove next to a wringer-type washing machine which was in the corner, with a hose to drain it out of a hole in the wall. Nana would boil water on the wood stove in a huge aluminum pot and then pour the hot water into the washer. She shaved soap off of a bar with a small knife.

I remember sitting next to her so many times while she replaced buttons on clothing; buttons were made from thin slices of deer antler with holes drilled in them, and oftentimes they broke while going through the wringer that squeezed the water from the washed clothing.


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2026-06-02 21:23:16 | Comments | Printable version

Letter: The games we're playing

Jennifer Parker writes:
Mr. Druen, Thank you for speaking up! Absolute truth that those less fortunate don't stand much of a chance to even get an opportunity in today's sports at their schools. It's truly sad.

I've been told by children in the family that most usually there is a required outfit needed to play, and it is most usually ALWAYS of name brand items. Frankly it's just plain "stupid" in my eyes. What one wears does not show talent, but rather shows conceit if only name brand is acceptable. On top of that is the greed of price of equipment in stores today. Kids of all backgrounds ought to all get the opportunity to play school sports.
Comments re: Tommy Druen: The games we're playing


2026-06-02 21:16:01 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Letters and Reader Feedback

Order clarifies qualifying conditions for medical cannabis

From Scottie Ellis

Frankfort, KY - On June 2, 2026, Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order directing Team Kentucky's Office of Medical Cannabis to issue an emergency regulation further clarifying qualifying conditions for medical cannabis in Kentucky law. With the clarification, 15 additional conditions are recognized, including sickle cell anemia, ALS, Crohn's disease, Parkinson's, terminal illness and more.

The Office of Medical Cannabis, the Team Kentucky Medical Cannabis Workgroup and the Board of Physicians and Advisors all previously made requests to the General Assembly to clarify the law, but no action was taken.

"The law is meant to provide a safe alternative form of pain relief for Kentuckians suffering, yet the law's lack of clarity prevented too many people from receiving help. This step makes the law more clear," said Gov. Beshear. "With the progress we've made to reduce overdose deaths and fight addiction, it's important we continue to offer an alternative to dangerous and addictive opioids. This emergency regulation will help more Kentuckians reclaim their lives through safe, nonaddictive medical cannabis."

With today's clarification, terminal illness, sickle cell anemia, ALS, Parkinson's disease, HIV, AIDS, Huntington's disease, muscular dystrophy, cachexia or wasting syndrome, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, neuropathies, severe arthritis, fibromyalgia and glaucoma are now included under Kentucky law.


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2026-06-02 21:13:46 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Health Care

Area students named to WKU Honors Lists

Western Kentucky University has released the honors lists for the spring 2026 semester, including 92 area students. Eight students from Adair County were named to the honors list, five of them on the President's List.

Full-time undergraduate students with a semester grade-point average of 3.4 to 3.79 are named to the Dean's List. Students with a GPA of 3.8 to 4.0 are named to the President's List. Their names are marked with an asterisk (*).

Adair Co. students on the WKU Spring Honors Lists:
  • Ian X. Makranszky, of Breeding
  • Aileen E. King, of Breeding
  • Kylie C. Miller*, of Columbia
  • Sophie M. Eaton*, of Columbia
  • Isaac W. Little, of Columbia
  • Brantley K. Lyon*, of Columbia
  • Paris B. Barkes*, of Columbia
  • Emily G. Bivens*, of Columbia
Click title for lists from surrounding counties.


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2026-06-02 21:11:16 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Education

Robert G. Shanklin, 90, Columbia, KY (1936-2026)

Robert Glenn Shanklin of Columbia died on Monday, June 1, 2026 at Metcalfe Health Care Center in Edmonton. He was 90 years old.

Visitation is requested from 11amCT to 1pmCT on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Grissom-Martin Funeral Home, 200 Campbellsville Street, Columbia, KY. A graveside service will follow in Haven Hill Cemetery, with Brandon Nokes officiating.


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2026-06-02 20:47:55 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries

Kennedy Anne Bright, infant (2026)

With heavy hearts and endless love, we announce the birth of precious Kennedy Anne Bright, who was born sleeping on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Taylor Regional Hospital. Though her time here was far too brief, Kennedy Anne was deeply loved and will forever remain in the hearts of her family.

The family humbly asks for continued prayers, love, and support during this unimaginable time.


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2026-06-02 20:43:22 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries

KSP: Driver arrested after fatal collision on parkway

From Trooper Jonathan Houk

Russell Springs, KY - Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 Troopers were requested by the Russell County Sheriff's Office to respond to a two-vehicle injury collision, just after 2:30pmCT yesterday afternoon, June 1, 2026, on the Cumberland Parkway in Russell County.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Christopher Austin, 28, of Russell Springs, was traveling west on the Cumberland Parkway in a 2016 Kia Optima. Mr. Austin left the roadway on the left shoulder and steered his vehicle back onto the roadway. Upon traveling back on the roadway, Mr. Austin entered the path and collided with a 2020 Jeep Cherokee, operated by Maylon Brown, 60, of Russell Springs, also traveling west on the Cumberland Parkway.

Maylon Brown was pronounced deceased at the hospital by the Russell County Coroner. Christopher Austin refused medical treatment at the scene.


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2026-06-02 20:40:33 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports

Dalton Miller, 57, Stanford, KY (1969-2026)

Dalton Miller, 57, of Stanford, Kentucky, passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at the Lexington Veterans Hospital, following a courageous two-year battle with colon cancer.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2026 at Stuart Underwood Auditorium, Lincoln County High School, Stanford, Kentucky.

A private visitation for the Stanford City Council, City Staff, 137th Transportation Detachment and 217th Quartermaster Detachment will be held from 3pmET to 4pmET. Public visitation will follow from 4pmET until 8pmET.

A second visitation will be held from 11amCT To 1pmCT on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Trinity Church, 2418 Campbellsville Rd., Columbia, KY, under the direction of Stotts-Phelps-McQueary Funeral Home. Funeral services will immediately follow at 1pmCT at the same location, with Bro. Wendell Johnson, Bro. Tim McClure, and Bro. Damon Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Caldwell Chapel Cemetery in Knifley, KY.


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2026-06-02 11:20:14 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries

June monthly Chamber meeting is June 9

From Ellen Zornes, Executive Director
Columbia-Adair County Chamber of Commerce

Columbia-Adair County Chamber of Commerce members are invited to the Welcome Center at NoonCT on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, for a FUN monthly Chamber Meeting. Paige Nickel and Breann Franklin, Tourism, will be our featured speakers and lunch sponsor.

They'll be serving up All American summertime foods as well as local tastings. You don't want to miss this!

Columbia-Adair County Chamber of Commerce is located at 201 Burkesville St, Columbia, KY.


2026-06-02 11:15:23 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Chamber of Commerce

Forbes feature highlights Bank of Columbia's 160-year history

By Dr. Mig Feuser - Psi Pro

A community bank with roots stretching back more than a century and a half is now gaining national attention. The Bank of Columbia recently announced it was featured in a special advertising section of Forbes Magazine as part of the bank's 160th anniversary celebration.

"What's a community bank from Columbia, Kentucky doing in Forbes Magazine?" the bank said in a social media post announcing the feature. "The same thing we've been doing since 1866: Serving our customers, supporting our communities, and building relationships that last generations."

The publication feature appeared through Advent Media Group, an independent media company that produces sponsored advertising sections for national publications including Forbes and Fortune magazines. Bank officials noted the feature was a paid placement and clearly labeled as advertising content, but said the opportunity was extended to the Columbia-based institution following independent research by Advent Media Group.


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2026-06-02 11:11:49 | Comments | Printable version

Words of Wisdom for June 2, 2026

From Miss Donna Rieder
"It takes time to learn how to be alone without being lonely, but once you do, it's called freedom."

Farm-fresh, free-range eggs just $4/dozen. Call 270-805-1527 to schedule a pickup.
Donna Rieder's Clifty Creek Farm is located at 3190 White Oak Church Rd, Russell Springs, KY (visitors by appointment only). You can reach Donna by email at cliftycreekkikos@aol.com, or on the Clifty Creek Farm Facebook page.


2026-06-02 10:55:19 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Today

Softball: Lady Indians finish with most wins since 2022

By Trey Stephens, Staff Writer

The Lady Indians wrapped up their season with a 1-10 loss to LaRue County in the 5th Region Tournament. The squad fell to a tough LaRue County team that would go on to be region runners-up. The loss means the team will finish the season 14-15, the most wins posted by the program in a single season since 2022.

In the game against LaRue, the team was led on the bump by Sophomore Keylin Bergin. Bergin got the start and did six innings of work, giving up seven hits and three earned runs, walking a batter, and striking out three batters on 77 pitches. She posted an ERA of 3.5, a respectable figure against a high powered Lady Hawks offense. The Hawks hung ERAs of 48 and 15 on the previous two starting pitchers they faced.

The Lady Indians struggled on offense against the Hawks. Sophomore Ashley Loy scored the lone run for the Tribe on an RBI from Bergin. Loy, Bergin and Reese Bardin each posted a hit. The Lady Indians were able to get aboard other times through walks. Loy drew one and Braylee Corbin and Cady Kimbler drew a pair of free passes.

When you look at the Lady Indians performance from this game, what pops out to you is not exactly the stats, it is the relative youth of the players. The lineup that faced LaRue County for the Tribe featured just one senior and one junior, with six sophomores, one freshman, and a 7th grader. In contrast, the Lady Hawks lineup they faced featured four upperclassmen. The takeaway for the Tribe from this season should be pride in their success and excitement for the bright future ahead.


2026-06-02 09:44:54 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Sports

Next Lanterns & Tombstones Tour is June 5

From Mike Watson and Dave Thomas

The next installment of the Fifth Season of Columbia City Cemetery "Lanterns & Tombstones" Walking Tours will take place at 7pmCT on Friday night, June 5, 2026. The Tour will form at the edge of the Judicial Center parking area at Merchant and Monroe Streets, and will proceed up the drive to the Historic Cemetery. We will return to the same location. Please do not park in the cemetery.

Dave Thomas and Mike Watson will lead participants through various parts of the more than two century-year-old graveyard, pointing out bits of interesting lore along the way.

This is a walking tour through the historic cemetery and participants are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes, and your enthusiasm. Small flashlights will be provided to aid you in winding your way on the Tour.


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2026-06-02 09:33:35 | Comments | Printable version

Kentucky free fishing weekend is June 6-7

From Lisa Jackson

Frankfort, KY - The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources invites residents and visitors of all ages to take advantage of Kentucky's "Free Fishing Weekend," June 6-7, 2026.

This annual event allows everyone to enjoy fishing in waters across the commonwealth without purchasing a fishing license or permit. All other regulations, including size limits and the number of fish an individual is permitted to keep, still apply. Permission is always needed if fishing in private waters.

Communities all across Kentucky participate by offering fun special events for anglers, especially for youth. Check local listings or click on the Free Fishing Weekend webpage on the department's website (fw.ky.gov) to find many known events.

For those new to fishing, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife provides plenty of resources to get started on a lifetime of fishing enjoyment:


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2026-06-02 09:28:03 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Ky Afield Outdoors

Frazier officially opens new fitness center

By Ellen Zornes, Executive Director
Columbia-Adair County Chamber of Commerce

A ribbon cutting and grand opening was held May 28th by the Chamber Health Advocate of the Year, O'Shaugnessy Fraizer, at his Infinity Fitness and Wellness. He is married to Dr. Shantila Frazier and together they are dedicated to health.

He is a fitness professional with nearly two decades of experience helping individuals achieve healthier, stronger lives. His passion for fitness began at a young age and has grown into a lifelong commitment to supporting people of all ages and ability levels on their wellness journeys.


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2026-06-02 00:14:54 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Health Care

Martha Ann Roy, 88, Casey County, KY

Martha Ann Roy, of Dunnville, passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at Russell County Hospital. She was 88.

Born on June 16, 1937, she was a daughter of the late Charles Meece and Ora Lee Fox Meece. Martha was a homemaker and enjoyed babysitting. She loved yard sales, flea markets, and going to car shows. Martha attended Dunnville Christian Church for many years and enjoyed helping at the church.


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2026-06-02 00:07:25 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries


Birthdays and Anniversaries for June 2
Happy Anniversary, Amy and Scott Tarter | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Bob and Sandy Land (1962) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Earl and Marilyn Coffey (1962) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Mike and Laura Harris (1984) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Odell and Celystine Baker (1962) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Kayden Long (2004) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Alicia Coffey (2004) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Brooklyn Paige Beard (2001) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Cali Pitman (2005) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Cali Pittman | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Dana Reliford Walker | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Eric Vanarsdale (1995) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Erin Shelby Yates (1992) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Jason Brown, (1978) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Jerry Lynn Padgett | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Karen Price (1969) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy birthday, Laura Feese | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Leslie Branham | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Ralph Waggener (1943) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Randall C. Sneed (1978) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Sarah Streeval | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Shannon Thomas | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Susan Bohannon (1960) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy birthday, Tracy McCarroll | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Valeria Shepherd Bault | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, John D. (Curly) Wilson, 80, Russell Co., KY (1935-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Sharalyn Jenise Whitley, Campbellsville, KY (1971-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jimmie Todd Rogers, Adair Co., KY native (1935-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Gary Wayne Taylor, Columbia, KY (1956-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Cashius Ray Beard, Columbia, KY (1935-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Kathryn Gilpin, 73, Casey Co., KY | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Bobby Matherly, Taylor Co., KY (1934) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Marguerite Davis, Taylor County, KY (1926) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mr. George Robert Vetter, 74, Taylor County, KY (1940-2014) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Irene Elizabeth Frederick, Casey County, KY (1923-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mr. Tim (Gordon) Thurman, 72, Glasgow, KY (1943-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Sheila Ann Clements Burton, Columbia, KY (1948-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Louise Brock, 96, Adair Co., KY (1919-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Howard (Junior) Walker, Jr., 87, Sparksville, Adair Co. KY | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Joseph (Joe) Pickett, 88, Adair County, KY (1928-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Ewing Smiley, 99, Adair County, KY (1918-2018) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Annabelle Milby Henderson, Gabe, KY (1927-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Anthony H. (Tony) Grider, 60, Adair Co., KY (1965-2026) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Della Jean Redmon, 76, Columbia, KY (1945-2022) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Dr. Drewry Meece, Jr., Russell Co., KY native Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Floyd Nelson (Jimmie) O'Banion, Green County, KY (1922-2018) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, James W. Galbreath, Sr., 80, Jamestown, KY (1940-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jimmy R. Stephens, 82, Campbellsville, KY (1943-2025) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Johnnie Abell, 91, Adair Co., KY native (1929-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, June Alice Walker, 95, Roley, KY (1925-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Lucille Harden, 78, Columbia, KY (1944-2023) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mary Morrison, 73, Columbia, KY (1951-2024) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Obituary: Edward Oris May, 89, Liberty, KY Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Regina Campbell Rowe, 89, Adair County, KY (1930-2019) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Tony Landin Burton, 53, Columbia, KY (1969-2022) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)

Events scheduled for Tuesday, June 2, 2026
All events are listed in Central Time. Submit your upcoming event using our Contact Form.
8:00amCTLast day for nonpartisan candidates to file to run in the 2026 General Election | (ID:69636, Comment)
9:00amCTAdair Food Pantry, 203 South Monroe Street, Columbia, KY
Open 9am-12pmCT, Contact: Michele Fruth, Director, 270-250-5432 | (ID:70605, Comment)
10:00amCTSummer Reading at ACPL: Unearth a Story
Registration Day! Stop by anytime from 10amCT to 3:30pmCT to sign up for "Unearth a Story! Summer Reading 2026". Pick up your 'Summer Time, Fun Time Journals', Calendar of Events, Reading Buddies and participate in activities. | (ID:70627, Comment)
3:00pmCTSpecial Called ACMS SBDM Meeting | (ID:70708, Comment)
5:30pmCTBeulah Chapel VBS | (ID:70695, Comment)
5:45pmCTVacation Bible School at Kelleyville Community Church | (ID:70589, Comment)

 






























 
 
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