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Daily News for
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
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Share the road - dangers to cyclists

Most dangerous cycling scenarios

It may seem obvious, but it bears repeating: Bicycling and motor vehicles are often a dangerous combination.

According to sources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), around 1,000-1,200 bicyclists die annually in the U.S. in motor vehicle-related crashes, with over 100,000 treated for injuries each year.

Many non-fatal incidents involve no motor vehicles at all, but the most dangerous situations almost always involve motor vehicles:


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2026-05-06 22:05:19 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Health Care

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David Goguen named 2025-26 Teacher of the Year



2026-05-06 - Columbia, KY - Photo by Linda Waggener, ColumbiaMagazine.com.
Dr. Jennifer Antoniotti-Neal, Lindsey Wilson University Associate Professor of Education, congratulated David Goguen, professor and coordinator of the LWU Media Studies Program, on being named the 2025-2026 SGA Teacher of the Year by vote of the student body. Goguen previously received the SGA Teacher of the Year Award at LWU in 2016-2017, and also the 2004-2005 SGA Teacher of the Year Award at Wilmington College, Ohio.

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Stephanie LeeAnn Sutton Bair, 46, Adair County, KY

Stephanie LeeAnn Sutton Bair, of Columbia, passed away Monday, May 4, 2026, at her home. She was 46.

She was born on August 9, 1979, to Janie Marie Luttrell Sutton and the late Timothy Mark Sutton. Stephanie was a caretaker that took care of everyone. She loved her kids, grandkids and her family. Stephanie enjoyed flowers, gardening and being outside. She attended Mt. Calvary Community Church.


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2026-05-06 22:02:39 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Obituaries

Tommy Druen: How our society wins

Previous Column: The Mother Load

By Tommy Druen

My high school had just over 300 students. It was the only public school in the county. Needless to say, we weren't accustomed to success. Talent isn't only found in larger places, but our school simply had a smaller pool from which to draw.

Yet, our basketball team punched well above its weight. In my four years, we won the district tournament and the All "A" region tournament three times each. I'm proud to say I was a part of the team.

For the sake of full disclosure though, I wasn't the reason. I was the guy at the end of the bench. I didn't see the floor unless the outcome was already decided. Once, my coach asked me to keep stats during the game. That moment made my role crystal clear. Our odds of winning were better if I had a pencil in my hand, not the ball. Still, I never resented it. I knew our chances of winning were better with my friend J.P. Blevins on the court, averaging 30 points a game, than me, who likely averaged more fouls than minutes played. I accepted my role. My desire to play was outweighed by my desire for the team to win.

I thought of that acceptance recently while watching a 2018 documentary called "Behind the Curve."


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2026-05-06 12:48:45 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Tommy Druen

T.J. Samson Community Hospital recognized for patient safety

From Stacey Biggs

Glasgow, KY - T.J. Samson Community Hospital was awarded an "A" Hospital Safety Grade for the 6th consecutive grading round by The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit watchdog focused on patient safety. This designates T.J. Samson Community Hospital as a "Straight A" hospital, defined as hospitals that have an A for Spring 2026 and have sustained that grade for the last five or more grading rounds.

"We are very proud of this distinct recognition from Leapfrog. Patient and staff safety are at the forefront of everything that we do, and we are constantly working to be the best in every category. Our patients and staff deserve this," stated Brandon Dickey, RN, Chief Quality Officer at T.J. Regional Health.


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2026-05-06 12:42:52 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Health Care

CPD: Public Warning issued regarding text message scam

The Columbia Police Department is warning residents about a text message scam currently circulating in the community.

On Wednesday, May 6, 2026, an individual reported receiving a fraudulent text message claiming they owed payment to the courts. This message is not legitimate and is part of a scam designed to obtain personal and financial information.

Residents are advised that government agencies do not typically request payment for citations or fees via unsolicited text messages, nor do they direct individuals to unfamiliar or unsecured payment links.

The Columbia Police Department urges the public to:
  • Not respond to suspicious text messages.
  • Avoid clicking on any links or scanning any QR codes contained within such messages.
  • Delete the message immediately.
Individuals who receive similar messages or believe they may have been targeted by this scam are encouraged to report the incident to local law enforcement.


2026-05-06 12:23:20 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports

Adair Co. Grand Jury April 24 indictments

On Friday, April 24, 2026, the Adair County Circuit Court Grand Jury met and handed down indictments against 6 individuals on charges including theft, flagrant non-support, resisting arrest, possession, trafficking, assault, strangulation, wanton endangerment, sexual abuse, sodomy, incest, and complicity.

NOTE: Indictments are considered formal charges. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceeding.

The indictments can be viewed here:
2026-05-Adair-Indictments-00028-00033-Redacted (PDF, 7MB)


2026-05-06 12:21:52 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports

Planning underway for City Independence Day Celebration

From Trey Stephens
City of Columbia | Assistant to the Mayor

The City of Columbia has begun planning for this year's celebration of American Independence on July 4th. The festivities are going to be slightly larger than normal due to the special celebration of America's 250th.

The weekend will commence with Columbia Nights on the evening of Friday, July 3, 2026, including the announcement of Columbia's Patriotic Decorating Contest winners, the display of painted rocks (in partnership with the Art Department of Adair County Schools), and a performance by Columbia Musician Jack Fishback from 6pmCT to 7pmCT.

On Saturday, July 4, 2026, the Adair County Fair Association will be hosting a family fun event featuring food options and family-focused games. The day will crescendo with a fireworks show beginning at dusk, sponsored by the City of Columbia and the Adair County Fiscal Court. The fireworks will be launched from the Joe Johnson Little League Park on Industrial Park Road.


2026-05-06 12:08:01 | Comments | Printable version

Notes from the May 4 City Council meeting

From Trey Stephens
City of Columbia | Assistant to the Mayor

The City of Columbia met in regular session on Monday, May 4, 2026, in City Hall.
  • Mary Ann Loy gave an update on the Trabue Russell House. The Trabue Russell House will be receiving $184,000 from the State of Kentucky (through county) effective for the July 1, 2026-June 30, 2027 budget.
  • In addition, the City will receive funding of approximate $800,000 for the Rice Drive drainage project and close to $400,000 for the Burkesville Loop updates.
  • The council approved for the Adair County Middle School Cheerleaders to use the Pickle Ball courts for a fundraiser.
  • The City voted to pay half of the cost of fireworks, and to have that activity at the Joe Johnson Little League Park.
  • They voted to advertise for procurement of an engineer for the TAP Project. This is contingent upon funding. This is the school sidewalk project which will run sidewalks down Greensburg Street, Walker Street, and Hudson Street; as well as in front of the Post Office.
  • The council voted on two items through Opioid Funding that will be utilized for the Columbia Police Department.


2026-05-06 12:01:46 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Local Government

CPD: Adair Co. man charged with possession

The Columbia Police Department was dispatched to a local business in reference to a harassment complaint on May 3, 2026, at approximately 8:00 p.m. (CST)

Upon arrival, Columbia Police arrested a Columbia man on multiple charges. Columbia Police Officer Trent Williams was the arresting officer.


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2026-05-06 11:57:39 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports

Pecans at Extension Office while supplies last

From Shannon Steveson

Adair County Homemakers have pecan pieces and halves (16 ounces bags) for sale for $10.00 a bag at the Adair County Extension Office, 409 Fairground Street, Columbia, KY, while supplies last.


2026-05-06 11:53:50 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Adair Co. Extension Service

Letter: Oh, so true!

Donna Rieder writes:
Very nice, and oh, so true! Every evening I take my goats and go on a walkabout down to the creek. They get to graze and I sit and listen to the waterfall, frogs, crickets, and the wind in the trees, and watch the fireflies. It keeps me sane in a crazy world.
Comments re: Kentucky Color: Into the forest we should go


2026-05-06 10:08:39 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Letters and Reader Feedback

Quote of the Day for May 6, 2026

From Joyce Coomer
"When an old person dies, a library burns to the ground." - African proverb


2026-05-06 09:57:58 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Today

Lake Cumberland Head Start visits City Hall

From Trey Stephens
City of Columbia | Assistant to the Mayor

On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, Columbia Mayor Pamela Hoots and the City of Columbia had the pleasure of hosting students from Lake Cumberland Head Start at City Hall. While at City Hall the students learned about city governance, what the Mayor does, and also learned about the Columbia Police Department.

The students were led on a tour of the Columbia Police Department facility by Assistant Chief Drew Conn before being shown his CPD cruiser.


2026-05-06 09:51:18 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Education

ACSO: Activity Report for April 2026

From Sheriff Gary Roy
Adair County Sheriff's Office

The Adair County Sheriff's Office Activity Report for April 2025:
  • 919 911 calls
  • 24 Arrest warrants served
  • 11 Criminal cases opened
  • 5 E-call response reports
  • 1 Domestic abuse cases worked
  • 17 Accidents worked
  • 9 Out of county transports
  • 19 Citations written
  • 25 Civil process papers served
  • 3 Criminal summons served
  • 56 Subpoenas served
  • 250 Hours of court security provided
  • 512 Vehicle inspections
  • 20 Animal complaints
  • 10 Motorist assists
  • 9 Alcohol/Drug related calls


2026-05-06 09:48:35 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Police and Fire Reports

Work underway on new BCF building

By Veronica Arnold

If you drove by the bypass on the southern end by 55S near Bluegrass Parkway and saw a building start going up... Why that would be the new home of Berean Community Fellowship.

We do not currently have a place of our own to worship, but Lindsey University graciously rents us space.

Currently the church family is hard at work building and raising funds for the new church. We just held our Carne Asada grill out on May 3, 2026. I believe there will be another grill out coming in July, another effort to raise funds for our church building project. So as you drive by, pray for your brothers and sisters in Christ as we work to build our own house of worship. Consider if you are being led to come to one of our fundraising events to help us.

I just know when I see something new being built I am so curious as to what is being built who owns it, when will it be open, etc. Now you know! And if you don't have current church home, you are most welcome join us in worship, fellowship and learning from the Word on Sunday mornings at 10:15amCT in the Hodge building on Lindsey Wilson campus.


2026-05-06 09:42:44 | Comments | Printable version | See topic Church News


Birthdays and Anniversaries for May 6
Happy Anniversary, John and Missy Arnold | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Anniversary, Randy and Sherry Keltner (1989) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Abby Lane Cowan (2006) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Betty Cowan, Indianapolis, IN (1936) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Bridgett Mouser | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Courtney Foley (2010) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, DeGary Ford (1968) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Elizabeth Horton | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Hayden Bennett (2005) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Jake McQueary (2005) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Jehovah Davis (1966) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Jenny Moss | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Linda Calhoun | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Louine Sinclair (1940) | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Margie Edwards | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Michael Loy | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Pattie McClister | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Shelby Elezabeth Jones | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Steve Hancock | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Sue Smythe Dowell | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Taylor Phelps | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Todd Dean Powell | (Updates/Corrections)
Happy Birthday, Tori Eaton | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jimmie H. Rodgers, Adair County, KY (1938-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Sammy T. Mann, Jamestown, KY (1940-2019) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Margie Edwards Adair Co., KY (1938) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Virginia Ruth Starnes, Casey Co., KY (1932) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Hazel Gentry, Russell Co., KY, (1924) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Edna Yarberry, Adair County, KY (1919) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Lewis (Bud) Wright, Casey County, KY (1929-2013) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mr. Kenneth Ed Hise, Crocus Creek Community (1948-2014) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Anne Elizabeth (Liz) Shaw, Taylor County, KY (1923-2014) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Winfrey Vanoy, Casey County, KY (1953-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Kathy Copley, Taylor Co., KY (1949-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Jeanette (Jenny) Wilson Moss, 86, Columbia, KY (1929-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Basil Oneal Roy, 78, Russell County, KY (1937-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In memory birthday, Roberta Miller, Campbellsville, KY (1939-2015) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, L.J. Tucker, 91, Adair County, KY (1925-2016) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Mr. Wendell Newman Jarvis, Cumberland Co., KY (1923-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Zachary McDonald, 2 years, Jamestown, KY (2014-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Kathy Ellen Spalding, Lebanon, KY (1959-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Pamela June Hadley, 62, Russell Springs, KY (1955-2017) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Dexter Dewey Berndt, Casey Co., KY (1972-2072) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Timmy Lee Young, Metcalfe Couny, KY (1954) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Gary Ford, Adair County, KY (1968-2018) | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Bobbie Homsi, 55, Liberty, KY (1966-2022) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Brenda Loy, 74, Columbia, KY (1948-2023) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Bro. Stanley Watson, 74, Adair Co., KY (1950-2024) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Christine I. Burris, 97, Amandaville, KY native (1926-2023) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Dale Willis, 82, Campbellsville, KY (1941-2023) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Danny Paul Atwood, Greensburg, KY (1948-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Elaine Chelf, 99, Campbellsville, KY (1921-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Estleen Wright, 87, Campbellsville, KY (1934-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Ethel Sells, 86, Glasgow, KY (1934-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Gale Lee Scott, 63, Liberty, KY (1957-2020) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Helen Louise Butler, 76, Columbia, KY (1946-2022) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, James Roberts (J.R.) Bottoms, 73, Knifley, KY native (1948-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Karen Romines, 67, Columbia, KY (1957-2024) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In Memory Birthday, Kaylee Tennison Frost, 28, Hodgenville, KY (1993-2021) Obituary | (Updates/Corrections)
In memory birthday, Odie Roy "Bouncer" Burton (1921-1995) | (Updates/Corrections)

Events scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, 2026
All events are listed in Central Time. Submit your upcoming event using our Contact Form.
8:00amCTExcused In-Person Absentee Voting
Excused In-Person Absentee Voting will be available from 8amCT to 4pmCT on May 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, and 13, 2026, in the Adair County Clerk's Office, 424 Public Square, Ste3, Columbia KY. Voters must have one of the qualifying reasons to cast a ballot during this period, and must provide a valid ID. | (ID:70618, Comment)

 






























 
 
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