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Daily News for
Thursday, June 25, 2026
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Paint The Town blocks being assigned on Square

The sixth annual Paint The Town will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026 on the Columbia Public Square. The square will be closed from 4pm until 7pmCT for the event.

Organizations, individuals, churches, and groups will gather to paint (sidewalk chalk) on the square. If you would like to participate, please contact city hall at 270-384-2501. A location will be assigned to each participant.


2026-06-25 20:40:38 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Local Government

<-Previous PhotoPhoto 1 of 9Next Photo->
MCHS class of 1966 reunion coming July 18th



2026-06-25 - Edmonton, KY - Photo from yearbook.
The MCHS class of 1966 will have a reunion at the Old School Cafe at 11:30amCT on July 18, 2026. Contact for info to reserve lunch - lindawaggener@gmail.com . Part of the class Junior year is pictured from the yearbook: Row 1: Gary Acree, Billy Joe Asbury, Wayne Bailey, Kathy Ball, Richard Barrett
Row 2: Gloria Jean Bishop, Patty Bitner, Billy Blaydes, Carolyn Bowles, Connie Bowles,
Row 3: Helen Butts, Zola Crenshaw, Suzanne DeVore, Rita Elmore, Darrell Ennis
Row 4: Bobby Fancher, Dwight Forrest, Elsie Franklin, Penny Garmon, Wayne Gassaway
Row 5: Danny Gibson, Roger Gibson, Gerald Gilley, Sandy Gravens, Yvonne Hamilton
Row 6: David Harbison, Stanley Harbison, Stan Harlow, Dorothy Hatcher, Rebecca Hayes.

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Rosa Stephens, 89, Russell Springs, KY

Rosa Stephens of Russell Springs, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at her home. She was 89 years of age.

Born on November 15, 1936, in Jamestown, she was a daughter of the late William Everette and Mollie Jane Chrisman Foster. Rosa was a member of the first graduating class from Russell County High School. She was a retired CNA for Fair Oaks Health and Rehabilitation. Rosa was a lifelong housewife and mother. She was a member of Bernard Ridge Church of God, being the longest active member.


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2026-06-25 15:56:24 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries

Nelson Pickett, 78, Green County, KY

Nelson Pickett was born March 17, 1948, in Adair County to the late Herbert "Stanford" and Elnora Martin Pickett. He departed this life Saturday, June 20, 2026, having attained the age of seventy-eight years, three months and three days of age.

Nelson made a profession of faith in Christ and was a devoted member of Greensburg Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Throughout the years, he faithfully served his church as a former Elder, assistant Sunday School Teacher, and volunteered for the Crossroads Youth Program. He also served as Secretary of Summersville Volunteer Fire Department and was a former member of the Jaycees. He was honored to be named Kentucky Colonel. He enjoyed traveling, farming, movies, sports, and antiquing, but above all, he loved spending time with his family and took great pride in supporting his grandchildren at their extracurricular activities and special events.


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2026-06-25 15:49:59 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries

TJCMF: Stop the Bleed Training at the Glasgow Police Dept

Glasgow, KY - The T.J. Community Mission Foundation and T.J. Regional Health, through the coordination of T.J. Samson Community Hospital's newly designated Level IV Trauma Center, recently presented the Glasgow Police Department with individual trauma first aid tourniquet kits designed to help officers provide lifesaving care during emergency situations.

The Foundation provided a total of 41 individual bleeding-control kits, enough to equip every Glasgow Police Department officer with a personal trauma kit that can be carried on their utility vest while on duty. In addition, five advanced sling bags containing approximately four times the amount of lifesaving supplies found in the individual kits were provided for use by School Resource Officers.

Randy Burns, Executive Director of the T.J. Community Mission Foundation, said the Foundation was honored to support the department through the grant. "The T.J. Community Mission Foundation is honored to be able to provide this lifesaving equipment to the Glasgow Police Department. Our healthcare network has a wonderful working relationship with the leadership and officers of the department, and to be able to provide them with this equipment is very meaningful to our board pf directors."


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2026-06-25 15:16:49 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Health Care

Cumberland, Russell Co. projects approved for $2M KDPI funds

From Scottie Ellis/Brandon Mattingly

Frankfort, KY - On Thursday, June 25, 2026, Gov. Andy Beshear announced further momentum within the state's site and building development efforts as more than $6.1 million was approved to support future investment and job creation in Cumberland, Fayette, Madison, Russell and Scott counties through the Kentucky Product Development Initiative (KPDI).

The Burkesville-Cumberland County Industrial Development Authority is planning a multiphase development project in the Cumberland River Industrial Park. Phase 1 includes installation of waterlines and hydrants, sanitary sewer systems and manholes, gas line infrastructure, roadway construction, stormwater systems and associated site development activities. Phase 2 includes additional utility extensions (water, sewer and gas), roadway construction, stormwater infrastructure and site preparation necessary to expand the available industrial sites. The $1.4 million project was approved for nearly $1.3 million in state support.

The Russell County Fiscal Court is considering purchasing 67 acres of industrial land that will enable the Russell County Industrial Development Authority (RCIDA) to market and attract new industries. Phase 1 was previously approved by the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) in March. The RCIDA is now moving ahead with Phase 2 of the project, which involves the construction of an access road into the property that would provide immediate connectivity to U.S. Highway 127 and connect the property to the existing Industrial Complex. The over $1.4 million project was approved for nearly $789,000 in state support.


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2026-06-25 15:10:38 | Comments | Printable version

County level unemployment data for May 2026

From Mike Clark/Kim Saylor Brannock

Frankfort, KY - Unemployment rates rose in 95 counties, including Adair, Casey, Cumberland, Green, Metcalfe, and Taylor, between May 2025 and May 2026, fell in 17 counties, including Russell, and stayed the same in eight counties, according to the Kentucky Center for Statistics (KYSTATS), an agency within the Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet.

CountyCLFEMPUNEMPMay26Apr26May25
Adair8,2357,8543814.6%3.8%4.5%
Casey6,1175,8093085.0%4.2%4.9%
Cumberland2,9792,8561234.1%3.5%4.0%
Green4,4984,2662325.2%4.4%4.8%
Metcalfe4,4084,2091994.5%3.6%4.1%
Russell8,0647,6993654.5%3.9%5.9%
Taylor10,79910,2575425.0%4.2%4.8%

Woodford County recorded the lowest jobless rate in the commonwealth at 3.7%. It was followed by Fayette, Scott and Todd counties, 4% each; and Boone, Campbell, Cumberland, Franklin, Kenton and Oldham counties, 4.1% each.


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2026-06-25 15:06:41 | Comments | Printable version

P&Z hearing on data center moratorium on July 2

From Tiffany Collins, Planning and Zoning Administrator
City of Columbia

The City of Columbia Planning and Zoning Board will hold a Public Hearing at 5pmCT on Thursday, July 2, 2026, in City Hall, 116 Campbellsville Street, Columbia, KY. The purpose of the Public Hearing is to discuss Data Centers and moratorium for further study.

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)


2026-06-25 12:56:44 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Local Government

Letter: $500,000 surplus collected on Hospital debt

Michael C. Watson writes:
So, logically speaking, that $500,000 will be refunded to the Adair County Tax Payers. Correct? Otherwise, overcollection of tax might be considered misappropriation or fraudulent taxing policy. Correct??
Comments re: Adair Hospital District granted permission to close


2026-06-25 12:53:02 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Letters and Reader Feedback

Scams Alert from Team Kentucky

Major shopping events, like Amazon Prime Days through June 26, bring an increase in scams targeting shoppers expecting packages.

Be aware of fake "smishing" texts claiming delivery issues, unpaid fees, or asking you to verify details through a link. These messages are designed to steal your personal or financial information.

If a delivery text feels urgent or unexpected, it's likely a scam. Visit StopScams.ky.gov for more information.


2026-06-25 11:17:59 | Comments | Printable version

Pete Pierce, 85, Taylor County, KY

Talmond J. "Pete" Pierce of Campbellsville, son of the late Vernon P. Pierce and Effie Blankenship Pierce, was born March18, 1941 in Green County, Kentucky. He died Friday, June 19, 2026 at age 85.

He served his country honorably in the Army National Guard and Reserves

Pete was a farmer and retired employee of Cox Interior.


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2026-06-25 11:02:51 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries

KADB approves $500K for area projects at June meeting

From Madison Pergrem Cannon

Frankfort, KY - The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board approved $3,694,091.50 for agricultural diversification and rural development projects across the Commonwealth at its June 22, 2026, monthly board meeting.

More than $500,000 in local area projects were awarded funding. Central Kentucky Custom Meats, Inc was approved up to $5,000 in Casey County funds and up to $73,553 in state funds to upgrade meat processing equipment, Green and Metcalfe were among the County Agricultural Incentives Programs funded, and Metcalfe County was also approved for Shared Use Equipment Program funds and Youth Agricultural Incentives Program funds.

"The Kentucky Agricultural Development Board is committed to supporting a wide variety of farming and agricultural projects across Kentucky," Commissioner of Agriculture and Board Chair Jonathan Shell said. "The projects funded today show our goal of strengthening agriculture in many different ways to benefit the Commonwealth and the people who live and work here."


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2026-06-25 08:02:06 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Farm and Garden

Life goes by fast, make each day count

You wake a young man...

are middle age at lunch...

by dinner you can imagine your death.
-- From the book, Beautiful Ruins, by Jess Walter


2026-06-25 01:35:19 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Today

CPD arrests parent, grandparents for child abuse

Columbia Police Department Arrests Parent And Grandparents
for Criminal Abuse 2nd Degree - Child 12 Or Under

By CPD Chief Evan Burton


The Columbia Police Department was dispatched to a complaint of possible child abuse and neglect on June 24, 2026, at approximately 11:46 a.m. (CST) at a residence within the City of Columbia.

Upon arrival, Columbia Police Officers made contact with the grandparents, a parent, children, and other family members at the residence. During the investigation, officers discovered that four juvenile children had allegedly been locked inside a bedroom for extended periods of time.


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2026-06-25 01:31:58 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports

Vital economic and wellness lifeline rescued by TJ

"When TJ first purchased this hospital in February 2016, they didn't just save a building. They rescued a vital economic and wellness lifeline for our town..."

By Landon Edwards, President
Columbia-Adair County Chamber of Commerce


As a chamber, our mission is to foster a community where families thrive, businesses grow, and our local economy stays vibrant. There is no foundation more critical to that mission than accessible, high-quality healthcare. That is why today is a monumental milestone for Columbia, Adair County and our entire regional business community as we celebrate the opening of the brand new Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Department.


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2026-06-25 00:59:40 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Health Care


Birthdays and Anniversaries for June 25
Happy Anniversary, Bob and Andi Chelf | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Bradley and Holly Caldwell (2005) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Bryan and Crystal Caldwell | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Dale and Brenda Janes (1941) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Ken and Jean Lefaivre (2011) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Kyle and Judy Coffey Stephens | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Mendell and Teresa Milby (1987) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Odell and Shirley Corbin (1955) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Tim and Cheri Olson (1996) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Casey Alan Richards | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Hagen Christopher Wayne McQueary (2008) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Hillary Brooke Klingberg (2009) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, John Luke Partin | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Judy Corbin | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Keri Willis (1978) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Madolyn Kate Brown | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Sheri Banks Little (1974) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Stacy Hare | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Steve Coomer | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Tony Grant | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jesse R. Welch, Campbellsville, KY (1946-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Edna Myrtle York, Jamestown, KY (1925-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Terry Randall Hammond, Russell Co., KY (1950) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Edro Harvey, Breeding, KY (1931) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Ethel June Warren Sluder, Taylor Co., KY (1930) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Daniel Marion Whitlock, Green Co., KY (1937 | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Emma Jean Burbridge, Adair County, KY (1936-2013) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, David Hymon Pierce, Adair County, KY (1950-2014) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mrs. Ila J. Judd, Greensburg, KY (1920-2014) | (Updates/Corrections)
In memory birthday, Mathew Dale Grider, Liberty, KY (1978-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, John (Guy) Hancock, 90, Hancock Mtn, KY (1925-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Geraldine Reynolds, Taylor County, KY (1930-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jack Pierce, Burkesville, KY (1953-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In memory birthday, Jeannie Moss, Jamestown, KY (1940-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In memory birthday, Opal Helm Liberty, KY (1924-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Paul E. Krage, 51, Russell County, KY (1964-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Lucian T. (Luke) Beard, 84, Knifley, Adair Co., KY (1931-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Bennie Spears, Casey County, KY (1952-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Ray William Sheppard, 60, Metcalfe Co., KY (1936-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Nina Mae Short Curry, 78, Horse Cave, KY (1938-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Susan Melanie Whalen, 57, Russell County, KY (1969-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Donnie Roots, 67, formerly of Campbellsville, KY (1950-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Barbara Ann Perkins Barr, 59, Taylor Co., KY Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Bobby (Bob) Bruce Rowe, 78, Somerset, KY Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Bobby Morrison, 67, Burkesville, KY (1955-2022) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Darry Dale McElroy, 73, Russell Springs, KY (1949-2022) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Delbert Lee (Peanut) Dotson, 80, Campbellsville, KY (1943-2023) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, John A. (Johnny) Helm, 54, Greensburg, KY (1966-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jordan Wayne Coppage, 33, Taylor County, KY (1986-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Kezia Ximenes, Campbellsville, KY Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Lois Crum, Taylor Co., KY (1955-2013) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Lucreta Eads, 87, Russell Springs, KY (1934-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mary Allender, 77, Columbia, KY (1945-2023) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mary Linda Denton, 52, Columbia, KY (1969-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mildred Sparks, 92, Adair Co., KY native (1930-2023) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Peter Arnett, Taylor County, KY (1933-2013) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Sue Parrott, 82, Taylor County, KY (1937-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Wanda Murphy, 75, Casey Co., KY Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Wendell Lynn (PeeWee) Grant, 65, Breeding, KY (1956-2022) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Wilma Jean Keith, 76, Adair County, KY (1943-2019) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)

Events scheduled for Thursday, June 25, 2026
All events are listed in Central Time. Submit your upcoming event using our Contact Form.
NoonCTAdair Tourism Commission special called meeting | (ID:70857, Comment)
4:00pmCTACHS SBDM Council meeting | (ID:70854, Comment)
5:30pmCTVacation Bible School at Russell Springs Christian Church | (ID:70805, Comment)
6:00pmCTVacation Bible School at Bethlehem Separate Baptist Church | (ID:70774, Comment)
Bible School at Bethany Baptist Church | (ID:70821, Comment)
6:30pmCTThe Inspirations in concert at Egypt Christian Church | (ID:70833, Comment)

 
































 
 
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