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Daily News for
Thursday, July 3, 2025
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We celebrate Independence Day, 2025

The Thirteen British colonies that would become the first of the United States - Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Virginia - declared independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain on July 4, 1776.

To commemorate the occasion, here's some patriotic trivia courtesy of the U.S. Census Bureau to share with family and friends at your Independence Day festivities.


Article continues... click title or click here to read whole article.
2025-07-03 23:59:18 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Local History

<-Previous PhotoPhoto 1 of 5Next Photo->
Flags are flying in celebration



2025-07-03 - Russell County, KY - Photo by Linda Waggener, ColumbiaMagazine.com.
This grouping of flags marks the welcome sign to Russell Springs at the exit from the Cumberland Parkway and there are many more lining the streets in celebration of Independence Day.

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Pamela Ann Guffey Parent, 76, Russell County, KY

Pamela Ann Guffey Parent, 76, of Russell Springs, passed away Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at home. She was born in Indianapolis, IN on May 25, 1949, a daughter of the late Anna K.(Selby) and Nenis Guffey.

She was a homemaker, loved her flowers and gardening, spending time with family and going to the beach in Ocean City, NJ.


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2025-07-03 23:09:05 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries

Lois Melton, 91, Taylor County, KY

Lois Melton of Campbellsville, daughter of the late E. O. Clark and Olsie Mae Davis Clark, was born June 29, 1934 in Taylor County, Kentucky. She died Wednesday, July 2, 2025 in Campbellsville at age 91.

She professed faith in Christ and was a member of Freedom Baptist Church. Lois was a retired employee of Fruit of the Loom in Campbellsville.


Article continues... click title or click here to read whole article.
2025-07-03 20:22:31 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries

Revival starts July 7 at Flatwoods Separate Baptist Church

From Tina Corbin

Flatwoods Separate Baptist Church will have revival at 6pmCT nightly, starting Monday, July 7, 2025. Bro. Tim Riddle will be the evangelist, special singing nightly.

Pastor Bro. Billy Hewitt and congregation invites you to come be in service with us. Flatwoods Separate Baptist Church is located at 1025 Wheeler Hill Road, Columbia, KY.


2025-07-03 19:21:03 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Church News

Adair Co. Arts Council to meet July 10

By Joyce Coomer

The Adair County Arts Council, "Embracing the Arts In and Around Adair County," will be meeting at 5pmCT on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Highland Station Gallery, 3292 Wheeler Hill Rd., Columbia, KY. Everyone is welcome.

Highland Station Gallery is currently hosting an exhibit of photography by Paul Bela -- A Closer Look at Nature, July 3 through July 12, 2025. Visit highlandstationgallery.com for gallery schedule.


2025-07-03 19:15:52 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Local Arts Scene

Deputy Rick Eastham medals at World Games 2025

From Carine Fletcher
Adair Co. Sheriff's Office

One of our own, Deputy Rick Eastham, took part in the World Police and Fire Games 2025 and brought home the following medals in his age category:
  • Men's Javelin: Gold medal
  • Men's Discus: Gold Medal
  • Men's Shot Put: Silver Medal
The 2025 World Games this year took place in Birmingham, Alabama. This event has 8500 First Responders from nearly 80 countries competing in 60 different sporting events.


2025-07-03 16:02:18 | Comments | Printable version

Baseball: Congratulations 7U Indians All-Stars!

From Taylor Grant

After a 2 day tournament in Leitchfield, the 7U Indians All-Stars Baseball team went undefeated, winning the 5th District Championship with a 3-0 record and walking away with the championship title.

The 7U Indians All-Stars roster:
  • #00 Sallee
  • #2 Sandusky
  • #3 Keltner
  • #6 Colon
  • #7 Melton
  • #8 Burton
  • Coach Stan Sallee
  • #9 Roy
  • #10 Humphress
  • #13 Hatcher
  • #17 Withers
  • #23 Sallee
  • #25 Maulden
  • Coach Jacob Hatcher
The boys will travel to Richmond starting July 12, 2025, for their chance to battle for the 7U Coach Pitch Kentucky State Championship Title.


2025-07-03 15:33:58 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Sports

Letter: Beanpole

Phillip Coffey writes:
Hudson (Beanpole) Willis is a native of Keltner, Ky. Mom (Venie Coffey) attended Keltner Elementary school with him.

On one occasion, Mom said to Hudson (later Beanpole), "Hudson, you have your sweater wrong side out."

He responded, "Other side is dirty."
Comments re: The Best and Worst of Beanpole


2025-07-03 08:37:06 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Letters and Reader Feedback

Tommy Druen: Next chapter of progress should be co-authored

Previous Column: The cultivation of understanding

By Tommy Druen

I never had the chance to meet my great-grandfather, William Elbert Druen. He passed away several years before I was born. From all accounts though, he was a kind and decent man, the sort of person who made others feel comfortable simply by being near him. He was a farmer and lived a life marked by hard work and conviction.

He and my great-grandmother raised four children--three daughters, followed by their youngest, my grandfather. The girls were born in 1913, 1915, and 1920. Remarkably, each one graduated from Hart Memorial High School. That may not sound extraordinary today, but it was rare for girls--especially rural girls during the Great Depression--to finish high school. Each would've walked those hallways during the darkest economic downturn in American history.

At a time when families were scraping by and children were pulled from school to work, my great-grandfather kept his daughters in the classroom. That simple choice, made in hardship, speaks volumes.


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2025-07-03 08:21:05 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Tommy Druen

CAUD Closing at 2pmCT on July 3

From Ashley Bennett

Columbia Adair Utilities District will be closing the office at 2pmCT on Thursday, July 3, 2025, to begin the transition to our new location at 221 Dohoney Trace, Columbia, KY. Sorry for any inconvenience.


2025-07-03 08:13:59 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Local Government

Kentucky releases 2024 Crime in Kentucky report

From Sherry Bray

Frankfort, KY -The Beshear-Coleman administration takes another step forward in turning progress into prosperity by ensuring Kentuckians are safe in Our New Kentucky Home. On Tuesday, July 1, 2025, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that overall serious crime rates in 2024 dropped by nearly 8% compared to the prior year.

The Governor said this builds on the administration's recent announcements of Kentucky securing another record-low recidivism rate and the third consecutive decrease in overdose deaths.

"As we build Our New Kentucky Home, we're ensuring not only that our communities are safer, but that our people feel safer too," said Gov. Beshear. "Today's announcement is a testament to our law enforcement officers' commitment to serve and protect the commonwealth as we make our communities stronger, our streets safer."

The 2024 Crime in Kentucky report (PDF) shows that from 2023 to 2024, of the 23 categories, 17 saw a decrease in crimes reported, indicating an overall decrease of 7.66% in reports of serious, Category A crime. Some of the notable data indicates an 11.55% decrease in drug/narcotic offenses, a 12.7% decrease in homicide offenses and a 13.78% decrease in sex offenses.


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2025-07-03 08:12:30 | Comments | Printable version

Antique Tractor Show part of Campbellsville 4th of July

The 35th Annual Citizens Bank Tractor Show will be held from 11amCT to 3pmCT on Friday, July 4, 2025, with a parade at 9amCT. The show is open to everyone.

Classic tractors from all across Kentucky will be on display at the corner of First St and South Columbia Ave (near the Taylor County Courthouse). Many of the tractors can also be seen driving down Main Street during the Duo Broadband Parade at 9amCT.

More info at www.campbellsvillefourthofjuly.com.


2025-07-03 08:03:46 | Comments | Printable version

City Hall to be closed July 4

From Woody Sharpe

City Hall in Columbia will be closed Friday July 4th. We wish everyone a safe and happy 4th of July.


2025-07-03 07:56:27 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Local Government

County offices closed on Fourth of July

From Bridget Compton
Adair County Deputy Judge Executive, Road Administrative Assistant & Solid Waste Coordinator

The Adair County Judge Executive's Office, Adair County Road Department, and the Green River Animal Shelter will be closed on Friday, July 4, 2025 in observance of Independence Day! Wishes for a safe and blessed Holiday with family and friends!


2025-07-03 07:54:28 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Local Government

Letter, RE: Animals, Thunderstorms, and Fireworks

Cynthia A Meyer writes:
Yes, it truly does test ones metal for the old adage of love thy neighbor especially if you have a neighbor who is somewhat of a closet pyromaniac which emerges every July Fourth much to the chagrin of most of the neighborhood. To each their own, and everyone has the right.

The majority of the objection to personal fireworks displays are the loud noises associated with the fireworks. One would think they could make a boomless firework display where it would not offend dogs, cats, horses, livestock, wildlife and small children, some veterans, and the elderly.

Simple enough to leave the boom out, and charge more just like they do with no salt green beans and other grocery items where they charge us more, and give us less.

I can honestly say that my horses would enjoy the Fourth of July displays so much more if they just light up the night skies without the booms that shake the earth beneath them. (And yes, my horses do enjoy watching the displays- just not keen about the big booms).
Comments re: Animals, Thunderstorms, and Fireworks


2025-07-03 07:51:18 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Letters and Reader Feedback

Letter: Montgomery genealogy story

Dennis Willan writes:
My grandfather was Clyde Montgomery and my grandmother was Jewel Montgomery. I would love to know more. I was at Shiloh placing flowers today and saw a new plaque.
We highly recommend checking out the resources at the The Adair Genealogy & History Research Center, located next to the Adair Co. Public Library at 307 Greensburg Street, Columbia, KY. For more information, you can email them at adairgenealogy@gmail.com.

Comments re: Event celebrates Montgomery ancestors, Shiloh Christian Church


2025-07-03 07:49:09 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Letters and Reader Feedback

Paving to begin Monday on US127 in Casey Co.

From Amber Hale

Somerset, KY - The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 Office advises motorists that resurfacing work is scheduled to begin Monday, July 7, 2025, on U.S. 127 in Casey County, from Barry Street (mile point 13.7) to KY 817 (mile point 14.76).

Motorists should anticipate lane closures and delays in both work zones. The project is expected to take approximately one week in Casey County and four weeks in Lincoln County. The start date and duration of work may be adjusted for inclement weather or other unforeseeable delays.


2025-07-03 07:45:27 | Comments | Printable version

Death penalty sought in Deputy Josh Phipps case

By Mike Scales, 92.7 The Wave

A woman indicted for complicity in the death of Russell County Sheriff's Deputy Josh Phipps could get the death penalty if found guilty.

Deputy Phipps was killed in the line of duty on September 16, 2024.


Article continues... click title or click here to read whole article.
2025-07-03 01:17:19 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports

Perry Hogue, 85, Taylor County, KY

William Perry "Perry" Hogue, 85, of Campbellsville, passed away peacefully at his daughter's home on Tuesday, June 24, 2025in Campbellsville.

Born on March 8, 1940 in Campbellsville, Kentucky, he was the son of the late Forrest J. Hogue and Anna Frances Hogue.

Perry was a man of faith and a former member of Woodlawn Christian Church. A 1957 graduate of Campbellsville High School, he continued his education at Campbellsville College, graduating with honors. He also studied at the University of Kentucky and remained a devoted Wildcats fan throughout his life.


Article continues... click title or click here to read whole article.
2025-07-03 01:14:35 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries


Birthdays and Anniversaries for July 3
Happy Anniversary, Adam and Tina Price (1998) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Chad and Kim Barnett (2008) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Don & Barbara Franklin (1964) in Memory of Don Franklin | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Mike and Joyce Kelsay | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Courtney Koenig Martin | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Danny C. Burton | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Herbert Harrell | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Jacob Boils (1999) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, James Blake Fisher (2000) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Jeff Potts | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Johnie Humphrey Hickman | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Laramie Keltner Pelston | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Maddox Phillips | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Phyllis Grider | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Dillery Margaret Cooper Bell, Casey County, KY | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Maude A. Neal, Burkesville, KY (1928-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Laura Adams Gabehart, Campbellsville, KY (1963-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Russell Glenn Godbey, Casey County, KY (1942-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Treva Ann Warren, Knifley, KY (1941-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Regeina Paulette Campbell, Albany, KY (1949-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Richard Dudgeon, Campbellsville, KY (1948-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jessie Caldwell Tupman Shirley Adair Co., KY (1929) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Timothy J. (Tim) Phelps, 46, Russell Co., KY | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jeanette Estes Bishop, Adair Co., KY native (1934) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Darrel Wethington, Casey Co., KY (1933) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Ethan Foster, Taylor Co., KY (1968-2013) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mrs. Carolyn Jewell Milby, Green Co., KY (1945-2014) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Cathy Long Akin, Columbia, KY (1964-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mr. Ernest James Rush, 82, Cumberland Co., KY (1933-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Wanda Lou Nunnally Ball, 72, Summer Shade, KY (1944-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Nell V. Rooks, 82, Russell Springs, KY/Adair Co., KY native (1934-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Kenneth Brewington, 86, former Cumberland Co., KY (1930-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Patricia A. Justice, Russell County, KY (1964-2018) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Charlene Sneed, Adair County, KY (1949-2018) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Brian Fabozzi, 69, Cumberland County, KY (1948-2018) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Albert Louis Maulden, 64, Columbia, KY (1957-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Charles Hugh Austin, 94, Jamestown, KY (1929-2023) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Danny C. Burton, 68, Columbia, KY native (1953-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Elbert O. McGaha, 89, Adair Co. native Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jana Rae Grant Hayes, Adair Co., KY native (1954-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jay Michael Rose, Columbia, KY (1961-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Judy Shanahan, 63, Adair County, KY (1959-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Kenneth Carl Norris, 73, Burkesville, KY (1947-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Larry Neil Jones, 85, Greensburg, KY (1935-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Ralph Compton (1942) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Shirley Grider Braman, 91, Russell Co., KY Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Bithday, Winnie Maxine Shaw, Glasgow, KY (1931) | (Updates/Corrections)

Events scheduled for Thursday, July 3, 2025
All events are listed in Central Time. Submit your upcoming event using our Contact Form.
11:00amCTServices for Todd Grider, 54, Columbia, KY (1971-2025) | (ID:69074, Comment)
2:00pmCTMeal kit pickup at ACPC | (ID:68752, Comment)
Services for Bro. Kerry Yates, 77, Columbia, KY (1948-2025) | (ID:69063, Comment)
CAUD closed this afternoon | (ID:69083, Comment)
4:00pmCTMeet the Artist: Paul Bela reception at HSG | (ID:69073, Comment)
5:00pmCTPicnic in the Park on July 3
Vendors, music, and a movie, at the Jim Blair Center | (ID:68994, Comment)
6:00pmCTVacation Bible School at Bloomington Chapel | (ID:69047, Comment)

 
































 
 
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