Headline News

FRANKFORT – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear shared new masking recommendations for K-12 schools in response to the highly contagious COVID-19 delta variant.

“Our priority is our kids,” said Gov. Beshear. “How we make decisions has to come from one simple place: What gives us the best chance to have our kids in school the maximum number of days in the midst of a pandemic? That is our North Star.”

The Governor was joined by Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman, Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH) Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack, Kentucky Department of Education Commissioner Dr. Jason Glass and Kentucky Board of Education Chair Lu Young.

Gov. Beshear and the state officials agreed Kentucky’s challenge is that the delta variant spreads quickly and aggressively among unvaccinated people of all ages. Without mitigation efforts, they expect the delta variant will spread through unvaccinated classrooms and throughout buildings resulting in large, frequent quarantines of students and staff.

Therefore, the Governor recommended the following:

• School districts should require all unvaccinated students and unvaccinated adults to wear a mask when in classrooms and other indoor school settings;
• School districts should require all students under 12 years of age to wear a mask when in classrooms and other indoor school settings; and
• School districts wishing to optimize safety and minimize risk of educational and athletic disruption should require all students and all adults to wear a mask while in classrooms and other indoor school settings.

“Those working in and learning in our schools know what to do to keep in-person learning going and to do so safely. We have already definitively proven that,” said Commissioner Glass. “Now as conditions have shifted again with the rise of the delta variant and reinfections, we need to call once again upon your courage, dedication and commitment to keep our schools open for school this fall.”

“I want to thank elected school board officials for consistently rising to the challenges that we’ve faced throughout this pandemic,” said Chair Young. “You have maintained a laser-like focus on the best interests, safety and health of the children in our districts and you’ve proven that we can put these kind of return-to-school guidelines in place successfully.”

K-12 COVID-19 Testing Program
The K-12 School COVID-19 Testing Program is a voluntary program offered by KDPH in partnership with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for Kentucky K-12 schools to assist in reopening safely for in-person instruction.

“We’ve been given $134 million by the federal government to create a testing program for K-12 schools, public and private, throughout the entire commonwealth,” said Dr. Stack. “I urge everyone who operates a school out there to explore the options and make testing available to keep yourselves safe.”

• Testing will be limited to staff and students of Kentucky K-12 public, private and charter schools and includes school district employees and staff (contracted or otherwise), such as bus drivers, maintenance, office staff or as determined by the school administrator.
• The K-12 School COVID-19 Testing Program will operate the entire 2021-22 academic year.
• Participation in the school-based COVID-19 screening testing program is voluntary and at no-cost.

Adair County School District officials announced today they will be holding a vaccine clinic Friday, July 30, for children 12 years of age and older.

The clinic, which is open to the public and does not require an appointment, will run from 12 noon to 5 p.m. at Adair County High School.

The Pfizer vaccine will be administered.

For more information, contact the school district at 270-384-2476.

The July 22 issue of the Adair County Community Voice is now available. This week’s issue includes the celebration of Bam Carney’s impact on this area, new decisions by the EDA, coach Jerald Bryant commenting on his team, and Summit Manor’s new chief. To get your subscription, call 270-384-9454.

Becky Conover Strange chose her friends. She chose them, then she told them they were chosen.
She would not take no for an answer, and because of her persistence, she has left a community filled with friends who now mourn an extraordinary loss.

Becky died in an automobile accident Sunday at the age of 46. She had just recently married Brian Strange, and her life was filled with love that she shared with anyone who crossed her path.

“Our friendship started with me having my son a birthday party when our boys were in 6th grade. I ended up taking 10 boys home with me to spend the night and her son, Jordan, was one of them,” recalls Becky’s best friend, Jennie Snider. “That’s how we met. Then our boys played basketball together and became best friends, and she let me know that our boys were best friends so we were gonna be best friends.”

Jennie said she thought Becky was “weird” at first, but Becky kept telling her that she would learn to love Becky, and she did.
“We were complete opposites. She was very outgoing and I was the quiet one. She spent a lot of time trying to ‘break me,’ and she did. We started hanging out and I loved her immediately when I gave in to her – she was such a sweet soul – she has been there for me no matter the time or day.”

Becky was there for Jennie when Jennie went through a divorce.

“She got me back in church, prayed with me any time things got rough for me,” Jennie said.
They were as close as sisters, taking vacations together, traveling together for ball games, and they loved each other’s children.
“My son considered her as a second mom,” Jennie said. “She loved my children as they were her own. She would always go to their bedrooms and talk to them. She picked them up for ball practice, brought them home, took them to church…anywhere they needed to go.”

Debbie Murray had a similar experience with Becky, saying Becky pursued her “to show me love.”
“She just kept on. Somehow, we eventually traded numbers, and we chatted, texted or called,” Debbie said.
Debbie had been in an abusive relationship and Becky was there for her to help her learn to trust people again.
“Whatever I needed. Whenever I needed to talk,” Debbie said.

Debbie is now a sales associate at Southern Nest Realty, and while she was working on her real estate exam and making major changes in her life, it was Becky who encouraged her.

“She never stopped encouraging me and telling me, ‘Debbie, you’re supposed to do this. God wants you to; you gotta do this.’”
But Becky was known for her tough love, too, something that Jennie and Debbie have both experienced.
“Even if it was simple…‘You want me to be honest,’” Debbie said Becky would say. “She was always telling me to do what’s right.”

Jennie said Becky would be honest but also be loving about it.
“She sure did keep me on my toes and held me accountable for all my actions because she loved me,” Jennie said.
Becky “never met a stranger,” Jennie said, and would visit Jennie at Hardee’s, where Jennie is a manager, and would “talk to everyone as if she knew them their whole lives.”

Debbie met Becky at the Columbia Church of God, where Becky’s father, Rev. Gene Conover, is pastor. Becky started a Bible study group and Debbie started attending. The group didn’t last, but Becky, Debbie and Chelsea Wood remained close friends. The three of them spent time together, and just recently took a flower class together.

“The whole time she was telling us how much she loved us. How much we meant to her,” Debbie said.
Becky was on her way to pick up a youth member to take to church on Sunday morning when the accident occurred.
“She was always trying to get those kids in church,” Debbie said.
Everyone was happy for Becky and the love she found with Brian. They were married on May 3.

“Brian asked Jordan if he could marry his Mom,” Debbie said. “Brian’s whole family fell in love with Becky.”
“She was caring, helpful, selfless; she loved her son more than life. She loved her family and I knew she loved me,” Jennie said.
Last Thursday, Becky gave Jennie a cross with Proverbs 27:9 on it: “A sweet friendship refreshes the soul.”
A week before the wreck, she gave Debbie a cross with Proverbs 17:17: “A friend loves at all times…”

“Not a stranger came through the door that she didn’t try to ground them in some way to the love of Jesus,” Debbie said. “This is how we are all supposed to live! Love unconditionally. Forgive others. Not let a day pass without telling someone how much they mean to you.”

According to the accident report, Strange was operating a 2000 Toyota sedan on Knifley Road when she lost control due to rain on the roadway and skidded into the path of a 2016 Chevrolet pickup operated by Mark Willis of Columbia.

Adair County EMS began life saving measures and transported Strange to TJ Health Columbia ER where she succomed to her injuries.
Willis, and his four passengers, received treatment on scene by Adair County EMS and were transported for injuries recieved in the collision and later released.

Adair County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Adair County EMS, Columbia-Adair County Fire Department and Constable Jason Rector.
An obituary for Rebecca Conover Strange can be located on page 2 of this week’s issue.

For the latest local news and sports, check out the Adair County Community Voice. Call 270-384-9454 now.

By Sharon Burton
snburton@adairvoice.com

This post will be updated with releases from officials paying their respects to Rep. Carney, who represented Adair and Taylor counties. Bam was a friend and family member of many in Adair County:

McConnell Comments on the Passing of State Representative John “Bam” Carney
“From the statehouse, to the classroom, to the United States Senate, Kentuckians are deeply saddened by this loss.”

LOUISVILLE, KY —  U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released the following statement today on the passing of Kentucky State Representative John “Bam” Carney of Campbellsville, Kentucky:

“Bam Carney was a tireless public servant whose devotion to his fellow Kentuckians knew no bounds. He uplifted the lives of his constituents through more than a decade of hard work and dedication, deeply committed to Central Kentucky and its people. It is a testament to his strong character that he was chosen to lead Kentucky Republicans as the House Majority Leader, a role which he passionately embraced.

“Throughout his tenure, Bam took on tough issues and fought for Kentucky’s most vulnerable students, using his expertise as an educator and coach to change the Commonwealth for the better. During his long illness, he continued to serve in a different way by becoming an inspiration to others who face hardships. The people of Kentucky are profoundly thankful for his advocacy and work.

“From the statehouse, to the classroom, to the United States Senate, Kentuckians are deeply saddened by this loss. Elaine and I share our heartfelt condolences with Bam’s family, colleagues, and friends.

SOCIAL MEDIA POST FROM SEN. MAX  WISE:

There are not enough words or phrases in a post to describe the life, qualities and impact that Bam Carney had on myself, the community, his family & his public service. He always kept Christ first in his life & that testament to faith showed throughout his illness by him & his family. Bam & I shared a wonderful friendship before our public service positions, but we became even closer as legislators.

Bam had the grit and courage to take on any legislative issue that he was passionate about. When it came to education policy, he fought for kids & what he believed would be in the best interests of children statewide. He did the same for conservative values that he believed. He was a leader within the KY House of Representatives who gained tremendous respect from both parties. He loved talking about his roots in Knifley and he always wore the passion of rural KY & his District on his sleeve. You wanted Bam Carney in your corner or in your foxhole…trust me!

Bam did not hesitate at all in endorsing me & supporting me during my initial run for office in a Republican primary when many were hesitant to do so and that was never forgotten by me & our family. He was loyal.

Bam was a family man that always shared stories about his boys, his siblings & his loving parents. His presence has been sorely missed by all during his illness, but the KY legislature lost a friend & a fighter that always put a servant’s heart first in all that he did. I’m going to miss him tremendously like all of us will that knew him and loved him. My continued prayers for peace, strength & comfort to his family and friends. Rest In Peace my friend.

HOUSE SPEAKER ISSUES STATEMENT:

‘Our hearts are broken at the loss of our friend and brother,’ Speaker issues statement on passing of Representative John “Bam” Carney

Frankfort, Kentucky (July 17, 2021) – House Speaker David Osborne issued the following statement on behalf of the House Majority Caucus:

“Our hearts are broken at the loss of our friend and brother, Bam Carney. Bam was a passionate educator, an outstanding legislator, and a tremendous leader for our Commonwealth. Those who had the privilege of working with Bam knew he led by example and subscribed heavily to the belief that you can do great things if you don’t care who gets the credit. As House Education Chair and House Majority Floor Leader, he worked diligently to provide a voice for children in classrooms across our state. His collaborative approach led to the passage of the School Safety and Resiliency Act, bringing focus to both strengthening physical safety and our approach to childhood mental health issues.

“For more than a year and a half Bam fought valiantly to overcome his health issues, all while remaining steadfastly dedicated to the people of his district. While there is great comfort in knowing he is free from the constant pain and struggle, we pray his sons, his mother, and his entire family find comfort in knowing so many join them in mourning the legacy of a good man.”

 

AGRICULTURE COMMISSIONER RYAN QUARLES:

FRANKFORT, Ky. (July 17, 2021) – Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles issued the following statement regarding the passing of Representative Bam Carney:

“I just learned about the passing of my former House colleague and friend, Representative Bam Carney,” Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture Ryan Quarles said. “When I was first elected to the House of Representatives, Bam was patient and kind in helping teach me the legislative process and how to best represent my constituents. He knew how to do both well, and was a visitor to my district many times over the years.

“Bam was a fighter. Through his role as chair of the House Education Committee, Bam fought to put the interests of students first. As House Majority Leader, he fought to bring about conservative vision for Kentucky, increase economic opportunities, and make the American dream possible for more Kentuckians. And, in these last few years, he fought tirelessly to get well, get home, and get back to representing his constituents in the halls of Frankfort.

During this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with his family and all who called him a friend. He will be missed.”

 

Statement from Chairman Mac Brown on the Passing of State Rep. John “Bam” Carney

Frankfort, KY – Please see the statement below from Chairman Mac Brown on the passing of State Rep. John “Bam” Carney:

“The hearts of all Kentuckians, Republicans and Democrats alike, are filled with grief today at the passing of our dear friend, Rep. John “Bam” Carney. He was a bold leader not only for our Republican lawmakers, but for his constituents and our entire state. We are proud of how hard he fought, and we will dearly miss his sense of humor, keen intellect and most of all his relentless commitment to making Kentucky a better place, especially when it came to working to lift up our students, teachers and schools. We offer our deepest sympathy and prayers to all of Bam’s cherished family and friends.” – Republican Party of Kentucky Chairman Mac Brown

 

 

 

 

The boil water advisory for Short Street, Adair Avenue and Spring Drive has beenj lifted by the Division of Water, Columbia Office.

Water is safe for human consumption.

Brian Muse, 35, and Linda Muse, 32, both of Columbia, are facing multiple charges, including wanton endangerment, after an incident Thursday night.

Columbia Police Department officers responded to what was initially a noise complaint at an apartment complex on Carrie Bolin Drive. On arrival, officers spoke with two female juveniles and smelled a strong marijuana odor coming from the apartment.

A male subject, who had left earlier, returned to the apartment and refused to allow officers to search the premises. A search warrant was soon obtained and the officers made entry to find a female attempting to hide, marijuana and suspected methamphetamine. The female, it was found, has three active warrants from three counties.

Brian Muse and Linda Muse have been charged with possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and two counts of wanton endangerment, first degree. Additionally, Brian Muse is being charged with hindering prosecution or apprehension.

Officers Adam Cravens, Trevor Foster and K9 officer Cally assisted officer Justin Cross on the scene.

The Adair County Fair Association has announced the lineup for this year’s pageant schedule for July 30-31 at the pavilion at the city park (next to the old fairgrounds) in Columbia.

The events will begin Friday, July 30 with the youngest contestants. The baby contests will begin at 6 p.m., including the following categories: Birth to 3-month-old girls, birth to 3-month-old boys, 4-to 6-month-old girls, 4-to 6-month-old boys, 7 months to 1-year-old girls, and 7 months to 1-year-old boys.

The final two categories in the baby division will be held at 7 p.m. with the 1-to 2-year-old girls and the 1- to 2-year-old boys.

The Tiny Tot division will held be at 7:30 p.m. That includes the 2-to 3-year-old girls and 2 to 3-year-old boys. The 3-to 4-year-old girls and 3-to 4-year-old boys will compete at 8 p.m. to close out the competition.

The Sunshine Pageant will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 31.

The Little Mr. and Miss Adair County pageant will be held at 11 a.m. and that category is open to 5-to 8-year-old boys and girls. The Miss Pre-Teen Adair County Fair, consisting of 9 -to12-year-old girls, will be held at noon.

The Miss Teen Adair County Fair will be held at 12:30 p.m. It will consist of 13-to 15-year-old girls, and the Miss Adair County Fair, for 16- to 21-year-olds, will close out the day at 1 p.m.
For applications and registration, send an email to gregthomas541@gmail.com

By Scott Wilson
scott@adairvoice.com

A boil water advisory is in effect for Columbia Adair Utilities District customers on Short Street, Adair Avenue and Spring Drive.

The advisory has been issued due to a main line leak.

Following such an event, the potential exists for bacteriological contamination of the water supply; therefore this boil water advisory has been issued as a precautionary measure.

Until further notice, boil all water used for drinking and cooking, bringing the water to a rolling boil for three minutes before using. This advisory will remain in effect until the situation has been corrected and test results have shown the water to be of an acceptable quality.

For more information concerning the boil water advisory, contact Lennon Stone at Columbia Adair Utilities District at 270-384-2181.

In this week’s issue of the Community Voice, read about the impact Becky Conover Strange had on her family and friends, the recovery of Christy Murphy, and the retirement celebration for Mike Glasgow. For all the latest news and sports, subscribe to the Community Voice by calling 270-384-9454.

Adair County Fiscal Court Clerk Bridget Compton has announced the Bull Run side of Vester Road will be closed for road work on July 15 beginning at 7:30 a.m. Delays are expected until late in the afternoon.

By Al Cross
Kentucky Health News

James Tudder II of Adair County was arrested Saturday on felony drug charges after Adair County Sheriff’s deputies initiated a traffic stop on Hughes Road, about four miles south of Columbia.

Deputies had been patrolling the area because of multiple complaints of possible drug activity. Tudder II was stopped around 1 a.m.

Deputy Kenny Perkins initiated the stop and placed Tudder II under arrest for possession of a controlled substance, first degree, methamphetamine; operating on a suspended operator’s license, and two outstanding warrants for Adair County District Court.

Tudder II, 58, was lodged in the Adair County Jail.

The Adair County’s Sheriff’s office is continuing the investigation.

The Adair County Community Voice is working on its annual Discover Adair County magazine. It is the yearly publication which highlights the best this county has to offer in categories like business, commerce, education, real estate, local government and recreation – just to name a few.

Each year, we ask for you to assist us by sending in photos of your experiences in the county, such as public events, outdoor gatherings, children, time on the rivers and lakes, school classrooms, your favorite restaurant and any other picture you feel catches the beauty of this great county.

Please email your photos to newsroom@adairvoice.com

Check out this week’s Adair County Community Voice for the latest local news and sports. In the July 8 issue, read about an effort to help a family while a daughter recovers from a liver transplant, how the city council approved a gas rate hike, and how the Indians are getting ready to open preseason football camp. The Community Voice can be found at news stands around the county or by calling 270-384-9454.

SOMERSET – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) District 8 Office advises motorists that KY 61 in Adair County has been reduced to one lane at the Russell Creek bridge (mile point 16.9) as crews work to remove drift and other debris from beneath the structure.

Work is requiring a full closure of the roadway as debris is being loaded onto trucks. Motorists may experience longer delays during this process. Flaggers will maintain traffic during the work.

Work is expected to be completed Monday, July 12. The duration of work may be adjusted for inclement weather or other unforeseeable delays. Drivers should expect delays and are encouraged to allow extra time in reaching their destination.

For Kentucky’s latest traffic and travel information, visit goky.ky.gov.  Motorists can also access traffic information for the District 8 counties at www.facebook.com/KYTCDistrict8 and at www.twitter.com/KYTCDistrict8.

Carlton Dobson, of Adair County, was arrested on multiple drug charges July 1 after Adair County Sheriff’s deputies executed a search warrant at a residence in the Pellyton community, 17 miles east of Columbia.

During the search, numerous pills were located along with a large quantity of marijuana. Deputies also found 138 marijuana plants in an indoor grow operation. Dobson, 40, was arrested and lodged in the Adair County Regional Jail.

He is being charged with cultivating marijuana over five plants, possession of a controlled substance, first degree; and possession of marijuana.

Deputy Kenny Perkins is leading the investigation and he was assisted on scene by Sheriff Josh Brockman, chief deputy Brandon Hitch and K-9 deputy Chandler Staten.

Mike Keltner, director of the Adair County EMS, announced the outdoor warning siren test scheduled for today (July 5) has been cancelled.

A silent communication test will be conducted.

The Adair County 4th of July fireworks show is estimated to begin around 8:45 – 9 p.m. tonight at the old fairgrounds.

Bring your family and enjoy a great show.

Casey Creek Pyrotechnics is in charge of the fireworks, which are sponsored by the fiscal court, city of Columbia and several area businesses.

Happy Independence Day from the Community Voice!

Kentucky State Police Post 15 in Columbia will be conducting periodic traffic safety checkpoints in the Post 15 area, which includes Washington, Marion, Taylor, Green, Casey, Russell, Adair, Metcalfe, Monroe, Clinton, and Cumberland counties.

These checkpoints will be conducted as part of Post 15’s highway safety efforts.

Troopers will be checking for violations of Kentucky traffic and regulatory laws relating to motor vehicle equipment safety, licensing of drivers, motor vehicle registration, and operation of motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicants.

Charles Weston of Adair County was arrested June 28 on numerous charges following a vehicle pursuit.

Adair County Sheriff’s Deputy Kenny Perkins was patrolling the White Oak Community when he received a complaint of illegal activity. He observed Weston in a 2002 GMC run through a stop sign, and initiated a traffic stop. Weston sped off.

Perkins later apprehended Weston and he is being charged with operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs, operating on a DUI suspended license, fleeing and evading police, expired tags, and failure to obey traffic control.

Perkins was aided on the scene by Columbia Police Officer Trevor Foster.

Catch up on all the latest news and sports in this week’s “Community Voice” newspaper, on sale now. Read about pay raises for city workers, the county working to fix the jail’s cooling system, and the resignation of school board chairman Lisa Burton.

For more information, call 270-384-9454.

As of 8:55 a.m. on July 1, 2021, the boil water advisory starting at 702-1125 Campbellsville Road, including all side roads in between, has been lifted by the Division of Water Columbia Office.

This means your water is safe for human consumption. You no longer have to boil your water.

A boil water advisory is in effect for consumers of Columbia Adair Utilities District for customers at 702 to 1125 Campbellsville Road, and all side roads.

The advisory has been issued due to main line break.

Following such an event, the potential exists for bacteriological contamination of the water supply; therefore this boil water advisory has been issued as a precautionary measure.

Until further notice, boil all water used for drinking and cooking, bringing the water to a rolling boil for three minutes before using.

This advisory will remain in effect until the situation has been corrected and test results have shown the water to be of an acceptable quality.

For more information, contact Lennon Stone at Columbia Adair Utilities District at 270-384-2181.

Adair County Judge Executive Gale Cowan announced her office, the Adair County Road Department and the Green River Animal Shelter will be closed Monday, July 5, 2021 in observance of Independence Day!

Adair County Clerk Lisa Greer has announced her office will be closed July 3 – 5 in observance of the 4^th of July holiday.