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Daily News for
Friday, May 2, 2025
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Nursing Awards presented at Pinning and Recognition Ceremony

From Duane Bonifer

The Lindsey Wilson Program of Nursing presented ten awards to graduating senior nursing students at the annual Pinning and Recognition Ceremony on Thursday night, May 1, 2025.

The following students were recognized:
  • 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.
Senior Haley Cook of Russell Springs, Kentucky, who received the Elizabeth Lowe Whitfield Nursing Professional Development Award, 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."


Article continues... click title or click here to read whole article.
2025-05-02 17:38:03 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Lindsey Wilson College

<-Previous PhotoPhoto 1 of 8Next Photo->
Horses dance in Kentucky skies



2025-05-02 - Adair Co., KY - Photo by Susan Eoff.
Susan captured this beautiful photo at Horse Woods Haven in Columbia.

Permalink | Comments?

LWC Nursing Seniors symbolically welcomed to profession

From Duane Bonifer

Less than 48 hours before they will receive their Lindsey Wilson College 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.

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 Columbia
  • Destiny Whitaker of Somerset
  • Jenna Wood of Somerset
"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."


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2025-05-02 17:28:59 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Lindsey Wilson College

Carol Perkins: Running from Grief

Previous Column: I wonder

By Carol Perkins

When sickness hits on the high seas and you are quarantined to your cabin until further notice, the trip becomes one of those, "I wish I'd stayed at home." That happened to me.

After my mother passed in January, I was so distraught and exhausted that time away from home sounded good. I could postpone, or so I thought, my upcoming responsibilities.

I found a cruise perfect for Guy. (He loves cruises.) Then, sickness hit me just as we were ready to enjoy five ports of call after nine days at sea.

The ship's doctor diagnosed me with the flu and pneumonia. He x-rayed, did an EKG, drew blood, and filled me via an IV with meds, but I couldn't shake it. Twice a day, I went for treatments (nebulizer) and an extra round of meds. In the meantime, I missed four of the five ports of call. I was too sick to care.

I was sure I would get better if I could get back home to my recliner, but that was wishful thinking.


Article continues... click title or click here to read whole article.
2025-05-02 17:23:09 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Carol Perkins

Red Cross blood drive at TJHC on May 9

TJ Health Columbia is sponsoring a Red Cross Blood Drive from 11amCT to 4pmCT on Friday, May 9, 2025, at T.J. Health Columbia, 901 Wellness Way, Columbia, KY.

To register, visit redcrossblood.org. Sponsor Code: TJHealth


2025-05-02 17:19:28 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Health Care

Winners of 2025 Chamber Crawl 5K Fun Run/Walk (or Crawl)

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

Our inaugural Chamber Crawl was all we'd hoped for...and more! The weather was perfect and all our runners and walkers were so patient and complimentary. They also shared valuable suggestions for future races. Next year's Chamber Crawl will be even better and we can't wait.

Overall Chamber Crawl award winners:
  • Overall Male: Bill Hillock
  • Overall Female: Elizabeth Dudley

Age Bracket Medallion winners:
  • Age 10 and under: Mia Montoya
  • Age 11-25: Liam Hillock, C. Albrektson, Karla Manjarrez
  • Age 26-49: Zack Proffitt, Elizabeth Madewell
  • Age 50-69: Mike Everett, Donna Young
  • Age 70 and up: Phillip Grant, Judy Good

As with any successful event, it takes a lot of people to pull it off. We especially thank all our sponsors, Supt. Jason Faulkner and the Board of Education, Jonathan Vaughn, Cross Country/Track Coach, Adair County Middle School FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), our media outlets, Evan Burton, Police Chief, Chad Wheet and ambulance service, Tyler Kimbler Porta Pots, Hot Prints, Mayor Pam Hoots, all our participants and our Chamber Crawl committee, Beth Owens, Sarah Jessie, Angie Cowan, Landon Edwards, and Chamber volunteers, Brenda Mann, Stacey Biggs, JD Zornes and Connie Devore.

All funds received from the Chamber Crawl will go toward Chamber community events such as Workshops/Trainings, Home Tour, Garden Tour, Treats on the Town and of course, our beloved, traditional Christmas Parade.


2025-05-02 17:14:48 | Comments | Printable version

CPD receives 2 PBT devices from KOHS

From Kila Kean, Secretary
Columbia Police Department

Earlier this 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 our 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.

We 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.


2025-05-02 17:08:32 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports

CPD: Columbia man arrested on outstanding warrants

From the Columbia Police Department

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


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2025-05-02 17:06:04 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports

Lantern & Tombstones at Bearwallow is still on at this time

From Mike Watson

People have been asking... Yes, we are still scheduled for Lanterns & Tombstones at Bearwallow Cemetery at 7pmCT this evening, Friday, May 2, 2025.

We try not to cancel for weather, unless it is raining at start time.


2025-05-02 13:38:25 | Comments | Printable version

LWC student Kendall Hacker named ACA Ledford Scholar

From Duane Bonifer

Lindsey Wilson College student Kendall Hacker '26 of London, Kentucky, plans to spend a lot of time in the fields this summer.

That's because the biology major will be studying the golden mouse and the white-footed mouse. Hacker will work on her summer research thanks to being named a Ledford Scholar by the Appalachian College Association.

Hacker is one of 49 undergraduate students from 16 Appalachian College Association member institutions who have received funding for research projects as a Ledford Scholar. The Appalachian College Association is a consortium of 35 private four-year liberal arts institutions spread across the central Appalachian Mountains in Kentucky, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia.

Hacker will conduct her research with Lindsey Wilson biology professor Sara Ash. Hacker's work will include field measurements of the personality traits of the golden mouse and the white-footed mouse, who are two common competitors. Hacker will test the rodents for docility, boldness and exploration, and she plans to study the mammals on Ash's farm in Metcalfe County, Kentucky.


Article continues... click title or click here to read whole article.
2025-05-02 13:07:13 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Lindsey Wilson College

Arts Council to meet May 8

From Joyce Coomer

The Adair County Arts Council, "Embracing the Arts In and Around Adair County," will be meeting at 5pmCT on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Highland Station Gallery, 3292 Wheeler Hill Rd, Columbia, Ky. Everyone is welcome.

Highland Station Gallery is hosting an exhibit of sculpture by David Waltz through May 10, 2025. Visit highlandstationgallery.com for gallery schedule.


2025-05-02 13:04:55 | Comments | Printable version

Chamber Connecting and Conversation at Black Stallion

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

All Chamber members (and potential members) are cordially invited to the second 'Chamber Connecting and Conversation' event, from 5pmCT to 7pmCT on Thursday, May 8, 2025, on the newly renovated patio of the Black Stallion Steakhouse, 202 Will Walker Rd., Columbia, KY.

Join us for an informal time of networking with the availability of their flair for food and drink.


2025-05-02 09:51:24 | Comments | Printable version

Kentucky overdose deaths declined by 30.2% in 2024

From Crystal Staley/Morgan Hall

Frankfort, KY - On May 1, 2025, 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."


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2025-05-02 09:49:04 | Comments | Printable version

Baseball: Indians win 5 straight

By Trey Stephens, Staff Writer

The ACHS Indians Baseball Team currently sits at 15-7 on the season after winning five straight games. The Tribe's most recent outing was an 18-5 win on the road at Marion County in five innings on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

Explosive hitting led the way for the Indians against Marion County. Alex Martin lead the Indians with 3 hits, followed by four Indians all posting two hits each. Martin, Jasper Kemp and Zane Gist all led the Indians with 3 RBIs each. Aiden Smith also contributed an impressive three stolen bases.

Starter Jagger Kemp, Brayton Coomer, Bryce Russell, and Brayden Fitzgerald all contributed on pitching. Coomer and Kemp did the most throwing, with 40 and 36 pitches respectively.

Adair County will seek to continue the winning streak as they close out the week on the road at 6pmCT on Friday, May 2, 2025, at South Warren High School, 8140 Nashville Rd, Bowling Green, KY.


2025-05-02 09:41:03 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Sports

T.J. Samson Community Hospital earns top Safety Grade

From Stacey Biggs

T.J. Samson Community Hospital earned an "A" Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit watchdog focused on patient safety. Leapfrog assigns an "A," "B," "C," "D" or "F" grade to general hospitals across the country based on over 30 measures of errors, accidents, injuries and infections as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent them.

"We work hard to create a culture of safety that is focused on compassionate, high-quality care," said Neil Thornbury, CEO of T.J. Regional Health. "Our physicians, providers, management team, and all of our team members are committed to the success of our patients, one another, and the communities we feel so honored to serve. We greatly appreciate this acknowledgment and will continue to work hard every day to improve our high level of engagement and dedication to the people of south central Kentucky."


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2025-05-02 09:35:41 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Health Care

Free Air Fryer Class at Extension Office

Learn more about cooking with Air Fryers in a free class at NoonCT on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Adair County Extension Office, 409 Fairground Street, Columbia, KY.

Air fryers are popular appliances that can be used to limit consumption of deep fried foods but also cook meals in a quick fashion, often of better quality than can be made in a microwave. Learn more including recipes and techniques at this workshop, which is open to everyone.


2025-05-02 09:32:57 | Comments | Printable version

Skip the Line driver licensing initiative

From Allen Blair

Frankfort, KY - 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 on May 1, 2025. 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:


Article continues... click title or click here to read whole article.
2025-05-02 09:29:59 | Comments | Printable version

Fish fry to raise funds for NM VFD and Rescue

North Metcalfe Volunteer Fire Department & Rescue Squad, Center Station, is holding a Fish Fry & Auction fundraiser on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 4 - 8pm. All proceeds will be used to purchase needed equipment.

Cost is $11 Per Plate for the meal that includes choice of two sides - Fish, Slaw, Fries, Baked Beans, Bread, Dessert, and Tea or Lemonade. Hot Dogs and Chips also available. For more Information By Gary Fancher or Judy McCubbin 270-537-4379 or 270-565-2241.


2025-05-02 09:10:21 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports


Birthdays and Anniversaries for May 2
Happy Anniversary, Charles and Opal Hudson (1951) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Victoria Buchanan Compton | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Bethoni Stinson (2005) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Debbie Willis | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Katelyn Charlina Moore (1997) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Preston Coomer | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Rick Shelton (1961) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Tia Smith White | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, twins Zane and Gracie Gist | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Brandon Wayne Morgan, Green Co., KY (1995) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Glen Hubbard, Taylor Co., KY (1920) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Michael "Mickey" Pyles, Russell Springs, KY, Adair Co., KY native (1972) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Minnie Catherine England, Adair County, KY (1928) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Ruth Cunningham, W. Hwy 76, Russell Springs, KY (1920) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mr. Raymond H. Thompson, Jr., Green Co., KY (1943) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Abe Luttrell, 92, Casey Co., KY (1920) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, H.D. Patterson, Breeding, KY (1933) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mrs. Sherry Morgan Yates, Green County, KY (1949-2014) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Judith Russell Vaughn, Taylor Co., KY (1950-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Elizabeth May Eastham, 78, Russell Co., KY (1937-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Davey Lawson, 43, Russell Co., KY (1972-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, David Hoover, 74, Adair County, KY (1942-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Carl Wethington, 77, Taylor County, KY/Casey County, KY native (1939-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Clifford Ray Hutchison, Taylor County, KY (1960-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Lola Mae Rexroat, 91, Russell Springs, KY (1926-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Donnie J. Wheeler, 62, Adair County, KY (1955-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Shelby Jean Brown, 81, Jamestown, KY (1936-2018) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Patsy Ann Leslie, Adair County, KY (1949-2018) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Hubert Dean Paxton, 65, Green County, KY (1952-2018) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Janet Quivey MacHattie, 84, Casey County, KY/Schenectady County, NY native (1934-2018) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Aileen Milby Skaggs, 88, Cambpellsville, KY (1928-2017) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Beulah McAllister, 74, Adair Co., KY Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Coakley Hoosier, 79, Liberty, KY Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Dorothy Bunch, 90, Russell Co., KY Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Howard Richard Carter, Russell County, KY (1953-2015) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, James Howard Sexton, 87, Adair County, KY Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Lucy Kassem Mullinix | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Paula Lewis Baker, 92, Columbia, KY native (1930-2022) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Richard L. Knight, 87, Columbia, KY (1935-2023) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Tandy Rodgers, 58, Columbia, KY (1964-2023) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Terry Bennett | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Warren H. (Buck) Perkins, 102, Columbia, KY (1921-2023) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)

Events scheduled for Friday, May 2, 2025
All events are listed in Central Time. Submit your upcoming event using our Contact Form.
10:00amCTChamber of Commerce ribbon cutting, grand re-opening, Columbia Walmart | (ID:68683, Comment)
1:00pmCTCelebration of Life for Jimmie D. Moye, 72, Columbia, KY (1952-2025) | (ID:68661, Comment)
6:00pmCTRevival at Through The Fire Worship Center | (ID:68655, Comment)
Lindsey Wilson College Spring Commencement
Ceremony for Graduates of Lindsey Wilson's hybrid graduate program | (ID:68676, Comment)
6:30pmCTAdair Co. Community Choir Spring Concert | (ID:68670, Comment)
7:00pmCTLanterns & Tombstones Tour at Bearwallow Cemetery | (ID:68680, Comment)

 
































 
 
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