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Daily News for
Monday, June 8, 2026
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Hatcher, TJ Health Columbia, is Employee of 2026

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


This year's Columbia-Adair County Chamber of Commerce Employee of the Year, Shelby Hatcher, is Director of Nursing Services at TJ Health Columbia. She is dedicated to her patients and employees and recently she was awarded The Spirit of Columbia Award.

Shelby Hatcher chose nursing because of her genuine passion for helping others and making a difference in people's lives during their most vulnerable moments. Her kind heart, compassion, and selfless nature shine through in the care she provides every single day. Shelby not only cares deeply for her patients, but she is also a supportive and uplifting coworker who brings comfort and positivity to everyone around her.


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2026-06-08 22:49:30 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Chamber of Commerce

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Historic Giles House opens for the summer season



2026-06-08 - Adair County, KY - Photo by Mig Feuser, Adair Progress.
The Janice Holt Giles Society opened the 2026 season of visiting hours at the historic site with the spring festival Saturday. The home will be open Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 4pmCT through September. The Giles Society continues to preserve the home and its legacy through educational programs, tours and community events. The property, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, welcomes hundreds of visitors each year and serves as a reminder of the region's rich literary heritage.

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Ballot positions drawn for non-partisan races

Adair County Clerk Lisa Greer directed the official ballot draw last week to set the non-partisan race order of candidates as they'll be listed on the November ballot.

Ballot position 1 - Richard L. Swartz; 2 - Ronald “Butch” Rogers; 3 - Mark D. Harris; 4 - Andrea Burke; 5 - Craig Dean; 6 - Sharon Payne; 7 - Hannah Peck; 8 - Beverly Loy; and 9 - Charles Grimsley.

Click here to review all the 2026 Primary election results


2026-06-08 22:25:02 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Local Government

Hilda Patton, 88, Casey County, KY

Hilda Patton, of Liberty, passed away Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Liberty Care Center. She was 88.

Born on July 25, 1937, in Casey County, she was a daughter to the late Troy "Bud" Tucker and Nora Campbell Tucker. Hilda was a homemaker and a former owner of Patton Country Store on KY 1547. She was a former seamstress at Liberty Sports Wear, where she worked for several years. Hilda enjoyed canning, gardening and cooking, and was known for making the best chicken and dumplings and fried chicken. She was a true farmer's wife. Hilda enjoyed fishing, being outdoors, and checking the cows with her husband, Junior. She was a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church.


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2026-06-08 22:18:28 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries

KY Afield Video: June 6, 2026 Full Show


This week KY Afield is in Campbell County at the Special Olympics Fishing Derby. Then, they are floating down the Cumberland River in search of trout. Lastly, running whitetail fawn distress sounds in hopes to lure in coyotes.


2026-06-08 21:04:07 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Ky Afield Outdoors

P&Z Public Hearing on June 11

The City of Columbia Planning and Zoning Board will hold a Public Hearing at 6pmCT on Thursday, June 11, 2026, in City Hall, 116 Campbellsville Street, Columbia, KY.

The purpose of the Public Hearing is to adopt the Plan Elements of the Comprehensive Plan. All interested citizens will have the opportunity to give written or oral comments at the Public Hearing. Senior citizens are encouraged to attend and comment.

Handicapped persons needing assistance or aid should contact the City Clerk's office at 270-384-2501. TDD Number 1-800-247-2510.


2026-06-08 20:51:47 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Local Government

ACSO: Home visit leads to firearm charges

From Sheriff Gary Roy
Adair County Sheriff's Office

On Friday, June 5, 2026, the Adair County Sheriff's Office responded to 12431 Edmonton Road, to assist Probation and Parole Officers on a home visit.

Deputy Sheriff Emily Wall arrested Nathan Chandler, age 45, of Columbia, and charged him with the following:
  • Persistent felony possession of firearm
  • Possession of handgun by convicted felon


2026-06-08 20:48:57 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports

KSP: Jury recommends life sentence for Maynard

From Trooper Jonathan Houk

Jamestown, KY - A Russell County man has been found guilty on two charges stemming from a Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 investigation into a murder in Russell County.

On June 1, 2026, a four-day trial began in Russell County Circuit Court. On June 5, 2026, a jury found Lee Maynard, 21, of Russell Springs, guilty of Murder and Tampering with Physical Evidence.

The jury recommended life in prison with the possibility of parole for the Murder conviction, the maximum sentence allowable under Kentucky law.


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2026-06-08 20:45:19 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports

Adair County raises $67,431 for WHAS Crusade for Children

From Grant Loy, Public Information Officer
Columbia Adair County Fire Department

Thank you, Adair County! We are incredibly grateful for your continued support of the 73rd annual WHAS Crusade for Children. This is a truly special cause, with 100% of the funds raised coming right back into our community to support local children through programs like our school system and other vital services.

We are proud to share that the Columbia-Adair County Fire Department raised a total of $63,850.00. This effort would not have been possible without the dedication of our Crusade Chairman, Phillip Richard, who put in countless hours behind the scenes, along with the hard work of our volunteer firefighters & their families. From the Pancake Breakfast and Chili Supper to the roadblocks, their commitment made a huge impact.

We would also like to extend a sincere thank you to Breeding Area Volunteer Fire Department and Knifley Area Volunteer Fire Department for their continued partnership--both in raising funds and assisting with roadblocks this year.

Together, all three departments raised a combined total for Adair County of $67,431.00 for the WHAS Crusade for Children.

Your generosity continues to make a difference in the lives of children right here in Adair County. We couldn't do it without you.


2026-06-08 09:37:46 | Comments | Printable version

One hundred nineteen years ago, June 7, 1907

By Mike Watson

More than a century ago, the worst natural disaster ever to occur in Adair County, up to that date, struck on Friday night, June 7, 1907, when a cloudburst sent a wall of water roaring down Big Creek and its tributaries and through the hamlet of Gradyville, literally washing away most of the town and claiming the lives of 20 citizens, a staggering blow for such a closely-knit community. This event should not and will not be forgotten.

When the flood came, the night was dark and ominous: the clouds in the west were black and heavy, and charged with electricity, yet few gave it serious consideration. The inhabitants of the town retired to rest as usual, and were soon asleep. About the hour of ten o'clock those living near the stream were suddenly awakened by the sounds of rushing water and the crash of timber against their homes and outbuildings. Before there was time to think, much less to act, the furniture was floating in the rooms, and some of the houses were torn to pieces, or washed away. Some of the inmates of the houses were probably swept away before they knew the imminent danger.

Those on higher ground were aroused from their slumber, but little relief could be given. They could only look out through the darkness while the rushing, angry water did its work of destruction and death.

When morning came, a scene of desolation was presented, the like of which had never been seen here. Houses had disappeared, carrying all the inhabitants with them, and where they were not removed, were surrounded with logs, rails, brush and debris, which had been brought from up stream.

Those who lost their lives:


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2026-06-08 09:33:36 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Gradyville Flood Special Issue

Homecoming and VBS at Bethlehem Separate Baptist Church

From Dylan Gentry

Bethlehem Separate Baptist Church invites the community to two upcoming special events in June:
  • Homecoming Service: The church will hold its Homecoming Service on Sunday, June 14, 2026. Since this year's Homecoming falls on Flag Day, the service will include a special presentation honoring the American flag. The service will also feature beautiful worship music by The Blakeys and a message from Bro. Dustin McGowan. Services will begin at 10amCT, and a dinner will follow the service. Everyone is welcome to attend.

  • Vacation Bible School: Bethlehem Separate Baptist Church will also host Vacation Bible School: Bible Bootcamp from June 25-28, from 6pmCT to 8pmCT nightly. This year's military-themed Vacation Bible School will include Bible lessons, crafts, food, games, and music. Classes will be available for both children and adults.
Bethlehem Separate Baptist Church is located on Highway 80 on the Adair-Russell County line, at 3722 KY-80. The church invites families and community members of all ages to join them for these special times of worship, fellowship, and Bible teaching.


2026-06-08 09:29:07 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Church News

CACFD: Structure fire on Rooks Denton Road

From Grant Loy, Public Information Officer
Columbia Adair County Fire Department

The Columbia Adair County Fire Department was dispatched at approximately 15:08 hours Saturday afternoon, June 6, 2026, to 1188 Rooks Denton Road on a report of a structure fire.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a shed-style structure fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters then initiated an attack on the fire and were able to contain the fire to the structure. The cause of this fire is unknown at this time. There were two firefighters checked out by Adair County EMS. They refused to be transported at the time of the incident.

There were 8 firefighters on scene for approximately two hours. Mutual Aid was provided by Russell Springs Fire Rescue. Other agencies that assisted included the Adair County E911 Center, Adair County Ambulance Service, and Taylor County RECC.


2026-06-08 09:26:19 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports

Food distribution at Old Concord Community Church

From Crystal Dillingham

Old Concord Community Church will be having a food distribution from 9amCT to 11amCT on Saturday, June 13, 2026. Food is distributed on a first come-first served basis.

Old Concord Community Church is located at 5996 Fairplay Rd., Columbia, KY.


2026-06-08 09:23:44 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Church News


Birthdays and Anniversaries for June 8
Happy Anniversary, Cody and Natalie Dobbs | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Jeff and Kristie Johnson (2005) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Charles Barnes | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, David August Lepiarczyk | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, George Kolbenschlag | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Jeff Jolley | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Judy Vance | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Karen Keltner | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Lana Burris | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Norma Yarberry | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Ridge David Long (1992) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Robin Hancock | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, William Glen Canada, Campbellsville, KY (1937-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Larry Wayne Jones, Edmonton, KY (1948-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Rhonda Lynn McClister, Russell Co., KY (1978) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Thomas Shofner, Campbellsville, KY (1926) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Bonnie Garrett Gregory, Columbia, KY(1957) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Regina Bennett Wray, Taylor Co., KY (1947) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, James B. (J.B.) Day, Taylor Co., KY (1948) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Wanda Thomas, Cumberland Co., KY (1931) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Ollin Reed Scott, Green Co., KY (1941) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jimmie Kendall, Campbellsville, KY (1944) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mary Lou Lester, Caseu Co., KY (1916) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Larry Ballard, Cumberland Co., KY (1960-2013) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Rodney L. Johnson, Russell Co., KY (1933-2014) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Ervin Junior Blythe, 53, Beaumont, KY (1961-2014) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Phillip William Sears, Liberty, KY (1951-2014) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Naomi Oldeda Curry, 86, Taylor Co., KY (1928-2014) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jo Ann Coffey, 78, Russell Co., KY (1937-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Roberta Atwood, 88, Casey County, KY (1927-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Fredia Roy, 56, Adair County, KY (1960-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Darrell Ray Compton, 48, Green Co., KY/Adair native (1968-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Bobby Jessie, 60, Edmonton, KY (1956-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Ada Jones Antle, 95, Campbellsville, KY (1920-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Theresa Smith, 66, Adair County, KY (1951-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, James Walter Leach, 55, Jamestown, KY (1962-2018) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Leonard D. McIntyre, 83, Cumberland County, KY (1934) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Alice Coomer, 89, Columbia, KY (1921-2010) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Anna Joy Chaffin, 88, Columbia, KY (1931-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Barbara Barnes, 86, Columbia, KY (1938-2024) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Christopher Wayne Cowan, 45, Columbia, KY (1975-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Clara Flowers, 87, Columbia, KY (1935-2022) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Delphus (Jummy) Bardin, 79, Adair Co., KY Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Donna Nolena Bryant, 74, Adair Co., KY native (1946-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Gary Alan Brown, Jr., 21, Prospect, KY (2001-2022) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, J. R. Haggard, 90, Casey County, KY (1929-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jeff Wilson, 59, Russell Springs, KY (1963-2022) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Johnny Ray (Pops) Walden, 70, Columbia, KY (1954-2024) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, McIvor Newcomb, 89, Campbellsville, KY Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Norman Lee Coomer, 69, Metcalfe County, KY (1950-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Peggy R. Bryant, 70, Taylor County, KY (1948-2018) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Sue Cravens Stivers, 86, Columbia, KY (1936-2022) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Thomas Murray, 98, Green County, KY (1921-2019) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)

Events scheduled for Monday, June 8, 2026
All events are listed in Central Time. Submit your upcoming event using our Contact Form.
11:00amCTArtist Jeanie Edwards speaking at Katie Murrell Library | (ID:70712, Comment)
6:30pmCTVacation Bible School at New Hope Separate Baptist Church | (ID:70767, Comment)

 
































 
 
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