Thursday, January 9, 2025

Crittenden and Livingston cancels school for Friday


Due to forecast of snowy weather Crittenden County and Livingston County have canceled school for Friday, Jan. 10. It will be a traditional snow day for Crittenden with no school work due and a LiveRed NTI day for Livingston.

NO MAIL | No newspaper in your mail

 In case you've missed today's Press, it's because of the National Day of Observance for former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away.

There was no US Postal Service delivery today, so your newspaper will not arrive until tomorrow. However, if you have the electronic version, you got your paper yesterday.

You can also buy a copy on newsstands in Marion, Salem or Fredonia. 

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

Area Braces for More of Winter’s Wrath

US 60 West between Marion and Salem on Wednesday

As Crittenden and Livingston counties prepare for a winter weather event later this week, residents are urged to take precautions to stay safe and informed. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Paducah, dangerous cold, freezing fog, and significant snowfall are expected to impact the region over the next few days.

FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE

What to Expect | Tonight's Cold Weather Advisory:

Wind chills near zero degrees along the I-64 corridor. Dress warmly and limit outdoor exposure.

Freezing Fog and Black Ice Overnight:

A Freezing Fog Advisory is in effect from midnight to 9am. Expect reduced visibility and slippery conditions on bridges and overpasses. Drive cautiously.

Winter Weather Alerts for Friday:

Snowfall begins early Friday morning and could last into late Friday night.

Areas under Winter Storm Warnings may see snowfall totals of 4 inches or more.

Marion and Smithland are likely to experience 2–4 inches of snow under a Winter Weather Advisory, but local updates could adjust these totals.

Snow Character and Travel Impacts:

Dry, fluffy snow is anticipated, which may lead to slippery roads. Plan travel with extra caution or delay non-essential trips.

Timing of Snowfall:

Snowfall is expected to start early to mid-morning Friday and continue through late Friday night, tapering off by Saturday morning.

Local Schools:

Livingston County is back in session today and Crittenden County is on a one-hour delay with buses running on Snow Routes only.

School resumes on delay Thursday

With most of our roads are clear, Crittenden County Schools will run buses and open school on a one-hour delay Thursday, Jan. 9. Buses will run on snow routes only, for both morning pick up and afternoon drop off. Families whose children ride a bus will be calling today starting around 3 p.m., to confirm a pick up and drop off spot.

Auction Friday at UBid in Marion

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U Bid Auction House will hold its first auction of the new. year at 6 p.m., Friday, Jan. 10

Among items up for sale are tools, furniture, a commercial rug cleaner and new wholesale items, plus more.




National Weather Service | Local Update


Weather Update for Livingston and Crittenden counties 

Issued January 8, 2025, 3:50 AM by the National Weather Service, Paducah, KY


Winter Storm Watch in Effect

  • Timing: Late Thursday night through Friday evening.
  • Snow Accumulation:
    • 4 inches or more of snow is likely in the watch area, with heavier amounts possible.
    • At least 1 inch of snow is expected region-wide.
  • Chance of Heavy Snowfall:
    • There is a 60-80% chance of snowfall exceeding 4 inches in parts of the region.

Impacts:

  • Travel Difficulties:
    Snow will accumulate quickly, significantly impacting travel. Hazardous road conditions are expected for both the Friday morning and evening commutes.
  • Cold Temperatures:
    Temperatures will remain below freezing during the storm, worsening road conditions and increasing risks.

Additional Cold Weather Concerns:

  • Wind Chill:
    Single-digit wind chill values near zero are expected early this morning and again Thursday morning.
  • Freezing Conditions:
    Lingering power outages could exacerbate the cold’s dangers, including risks of frozen plumbing.

Outlook:

  • Friday: Moderate to heavy snowfall to continue with below-freezing temperatures throughout the day.
  • Sunday: Temperatures may rise above freezing temporarily but will drop again Sunday night as another cold front arrives, bringing sub-freezing air into the region.

NEWScast WEDNESDAY | Local News | Sports


Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Weather update | Basketball updates | No school

Update 3pm with no school Wednesday 

While the threat of snowfall later in the week looms large for local residents and planners, things are getting back to something akin to normal today.

Still, KU is showing a handful of power users without electricity in Marion, and Kenergy has a few isolated spots with about 150 customers still without power. Those are concentrated in the areas of Phin Croft Road, Siloem Church Road, Irma White Road, KY 838, Wring-Grimes Road, North Kirk Bluff, View Road, and Dameron Road.

Planners of high school sporting events are trying to sort through options, as the All A Classic boys’ and girls’ basketball tournaments are supposed to be played this week. Crittenden County is hosting the girls’ tournament, and Dawson Springs is hosting the boys’.

The Rocket basketball team will host Lyon County tonight at 6 p.m. for the opening round of the tournament at Rocket Arena. The semifinal and final rounds will be at Dawson.

The Lady Rockets’ opening game, which was originally set for Monday, is now slated for 6 p.m. Wednesday at Rocket Arena. The semifinals are Thursday, with the championship at 4 p.m. Saturday in Marion.

Additionally, there will be no school in Crittenden County on Wednesday. 

Lyon County Sheriff's Report

LYON COUNTY SHERIFF’S ACTIVITY 

- On Thursday, December 26, 2024, around 10:50pm, Deputy Shannon Oliver responded to KY 1943, East of KY 373, for a single-vehicle collision. His investigation revealed a 2000 Mazda, driven by Matthew Todd Figert (33) of Kuttawa, was driving too fast when he lost control of his vehicle and exited the right shoulder before colliding with a tree. There was severe damage to the vehicle, but no injuries were reported.

- On Monday, December 30, 2024, beginning around 9:30am and continuing through Tuesday, December 31, 2024, around 7:16pm, deputies served multiple warrants from Lyon Circuit and District Courts on the following offenders:

  • Marcos Herrera-Zamora (38) of Norfolk, VA, charged with five (5) counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument-2nd Degree.
  • Miranda Gerald (31) of Benton, charged with Probation Violation for Felony Offense.
  • Nicopolis English (46) of Paducah, charged with Failure to Appear in Lyon District Court as it pertained to a Criminal Mischief case.
  • Alonzo Sherrill (46) of Mayfield, charged with DUI-2nd Offense, Operating on Suspended License, Fleeing/Evading Police-1st Degree, Wanton Endangerment-1st Degree, Criminal Mischief-1st Degree, numerous other traffic related offenses and Persistent Felony Offender-1st Degree.
  • Leanci Menocal Vega (26) of Sarasota, FL, charged with Fleeing/Evading-1st Degree, Wanton Endangerment-1st Degree, DUI-1st Offense, Receiving Stolen Property-$10,000 or more, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia-Possession, and numerous traffic offenses.
  • Messiah O. Robinson (20) of Gaston, SC, who was extradited from South Carolina and charged with Probation Violation for Felony Offense. Robinson was previously convicted in May of 2024 of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance and Trafficking in Marijuana. A circuit judge granted Robinson shock probation in those cases, to which the offender now stands accused of violating the terms of that probation.

- On Tuesday, December 31, 2024, around 3:42pm, Kentucky State Police (KSP) Troopers and Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a domestic assault complaint on KY 903, just North of Lamasco. The victim

Crittenden Among Hardest Hit by Ice

National Weather Service in Paducah has released its assessment of the freezing rain and ice accumulation that struck southern Illinois and western Kentucky over the weekend, highlighting the significant impact on Crittenden County.

Crittenden was among the hardest-hit areas, particularly in its northern region, where up to three-fourths of an inch of ice accumulated. This area, along with the rest of southern Illinois, saw some of the most severe conditions. 

Meanwhile, southern Crittenden County, Livingston County and Caldwell County experienced ice totals ranging from a quarter to half an inch.

Most of western Kentucky received between a tenth and a quarter of an inch of ice, with lower totals reported in Hickman and Fulton counties.

At one time on Sunday, 100% of Kenergy's service area was without power in Crittenden County.

The widespread ice storm left more than 100,000 residents across southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, northwestern Kentucky and southwest Indiana without power at its peak Sunday night into Monday morning.

Due to the lingering effects of the storm, schools in Crittenden, Caldwell and Livingston counties are closed today as crews continue to address icy conditions and power restoration efforts.

Dr. Kivisto provides local surgical services

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Expert surgical services are available close to home.  
Dr. Eric Kivisto is a general surgeon at Crittenden Community Hospital, providing surgical services and compassionate care for outpatient and short-term inpatient procedures. 

Contact Dr. Kivisto directly at Family Practice Clinic (270) 965-5238 or ask your provider for a referral. 

Monday, January 6, 2025

ROAD REPORT | Here's a trip round the county

ROAD REPORT | FROM MARION & CRITTENDEN COUNTY

brought to you by
Troy's Collision Center in Marion
Tom Potter | Marion State Farm agent

BONUS NEWScast with Judge Newcom & Judge Williams

 


Monday NEWScast | WEATHER UPDATES & $20K Shot

 Today's Show is Longer than Normal, about 20 minutes

Today's First News Now is Powered by
First United Bank
BIG SHOW THIS MORNING
We're posting a little later than normal in order
to bring you the latest weather information 

Latest from the National Weather Service
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Sunday, January 5, 2025

Latest Weather Related Update

Updated with additional information at 8:30pm

A warming shelter has been designated for local residents. It will be at the new Marion Waste Water Treatment Plant on Pippi Hardin Blvd., on the north side of Marion. The treatment plant has a large back-up generator and plenty of space to accommodate a warming center, said Crittenden County Emergency Management Director Jason Hurley.

The warming shelter will open at 4:30pm.

Crittenden County Rescue Squad, volunteer fire departments, Marion Fire Department area available to assist.

Those seeking shelter at the warming center will need to bring, if possible, sleeping bags, blankets, food, phone chargers, stadium chairs, their personal medication, etc.

Anyone needing emergency assistance can call E-911 Dispatch at 270-965-3500.

SECOND WARMING SHELTER
Shady Grove Volunteer Fire Department has been established as a warming shelter as well. If you are in the Shady Grove area and need assistance, call 270-836-8368.

POWER OUTAGES
There are widespread outages across the area. Below are links to local power companies' outage maps.

ROAD REPORT
While roads are currently wet without much icing, they are expected to refreeze overnight which will make driving conditions hazardous.

SCHOOLS
Crittenden, Lyon, Livingston and Caldwell counties will have no school Monday.

OTHER CLOSINGS
- Crittenden County Office Complex
- Crittenden-Livingston Water District office
- Marion City Hall
- Crittenden County Convenience Center
- Crittenden County Animal Shelter

SPORTS EVENTS
- All A Classic Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena is postponed from Monday to Tuesday 

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE UPDATE
Warnings and advisories remain in effect. 

In general, a transition to mainly freezing rain and drizzle is expected through the evening hours while the heaviest of the precipitation gradually winds down from west to east.  Even in southern counties where plain rain has been falling, icing continues in the trees with a very shallow sub-freezing layer.

While some melting of ice remains possible in southern/eastern counties this evening, much colder air on the back side of the system will change leftover precipitation to light snow overnight and into Monday morning.  This will result in an accumulation of 1 to 2 inches of new snowfall through Monday morning, with heaviest accumulation focused across northern sections of southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, and southwest Indiana.

In addition, plunging temperatures will likely cause refreezing of roadways, even where melting has been observed this afternoon.  Those locations across the heart of the Quad State region, roughly in and near the Ice Storm Warning area, will likely continue to experience downed tree branches and power lines causing extensive power outages through the night and into Monday given the gusty winds anticipated.

Saturday, January 4, 2025

Winter Storm Emergency Declaration




As the forecasted winter storm approaches, bringing widespread ice accumulation followed by heavy snowfall, both Crittenden County and the City of Marion have declared a state of emergency. The storm is expected to impact the area from this evening through January 6. This proactive declaration enables local authorities to coordinate resources effectively and respond swiftly to protect the safety and well-being of residents. Judge-Executive Perry Newcom and Mayor D'Anna Browning each issued emergency declarations earlier this afternoon. 

Emergency Response Plans in Motion

Crittenden County’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has been activated, with all emergency response agencies on full alert. Comprehensive emergency action plans have been distributed to ensure preparedness. Collaboration with state, local, and emergency response agencies is well underway to address potential challenges, including power outages, dangerous road conditions, and shelter needs.

Assistance and Emergency Services

Residents requiring assistance during the storm are encouraged to contact dispatch at 270-965-3500 for non-urgent needs or call 911 in case of an emergency. Crittenden County Emergency Management and MCC-911 Dispatch are coordinating efforts to address emergency calls and ensure necessary resources are deployed promptly.

Shelters and Support Services

Plans for emergency shelters are in place to provide relief in the event of power outages or severe cold. These shelters are controlled-access facilities, with locations determined based on specific needs, such as warming stations or power-loss shelters. Residents requiring shelter will be directed by emergency services to the appropriate facility.

Stay Safe and Prepared

As the storm progresses, residents are urged to remain informed, avoid unnecessary travel, and take necessary precautions to stay safe. For updates on the situation and guidance, monitor local news outlets and official emergency communications channels.


Winter Storm Alert: Brace for a Wintry Mix Tonight

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The National Weather Service has issued an urgent winter storm forecast starting late tonight, January 4. Here's what local residents need to know about the incoming storm and its potential impacts:

What to Expect

  • Timing:
    • The storm will start between 10 PM and 1 AM tonight, spreading from west to east. It will continue through Sunday night, tapering off as light snow into early Monday morning.
  • Precipitation Types:
    • A mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow is expected to blanket the region. Freezing rain may transition to rain in the southern counties during the early hours of Sunday, but sleet and snow will persist elsewhere.
  • Hazards:
    • Damaging ice accumulations are likely, particularly in areas under Ice Storm Warnings. Snowfall is also anticipated in regions with Winter Storm Warnings.
    • Widespread power outages are expected, coupled with gusty winds and dangerously cold temperatures following the storm.

Impacts on Travel and Safety

  • Travel Conditions:
    • Hazardous road conditions are likely throughout the weekend. Heavy precipitation and slick surfaces may make driving treacherous.
  • Power Outages:
    • With significant ice accumulation and strong winds, power outages are expected across affected areas. Residents should prepare for extended outages by stocking up on essentials.
  • Post-Storm Arctic Chill:
    • Beginning Monday, temperatures are forecasted to drop significantly, with wind chills plunging into single digits or below zero. This could exacerbate challenges caused by power outages.

Preparation Tips

  1. Stock Up: Ensure you have enough food, water, and medications to last several days.
  2. Stay Warm: Prepare alternative heating methods in case of power loss and keep extra blankets handy.
  3. Protect Your Home: Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing, and have sand or salt ready to treat icy walkways.
  4. Travel Caution: Avoid unnecessary travel. If you must drive, carry an emergency kit and check road conditions.

Looking Ahead

The storm's effects will linger into Monday morning, with precipitation ending as light snow. However, the arctic cold that follows will be a major concern, particularly for areas experiencing power outages. The National Weather Service advises continued monitoring of updates as small shifts in the storm's path could affect precipitation types and accumulations.

Stay safe and prepare now for this significant winter event. For the latest updates, visit weather.gov/pah/winter

Friday, January 3, 2025

Garage door installer wanted

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Looking for a job? 

Bobby Howard is hiring a garage door installer.

Call to discuss terms. (270) 508-0043.

NEWScast | Grant Money for the New Year!

 



Thursday, January 2, 2025

Fit Camp begins Jan. 7

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An eight-week program offered at Full Body Fitness Studio in Marion is a great way to start the new year.

Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 7, Fit Camp classes are 
offered at various times to help you get in shape and improve your health.

Contact Serena Dickerson, certified personal trainer, 
at (270) 704-1871 to register.



Weekend weather threat increasing

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A winter storm is on the way and is expected to bring mixed precipitation types to our area late Saturday night into early Monday. This system poses a significant concern for travel, so let's break down what we know and how it may affect you.

Timing: Precipitation will begin late Saturday night, peak during the day on Sunday, and taper off by early Monday morning.

Precipitation: Marion is in Zone 2, which means we are likely to see a wintry mix of sleet, snow, and freezing rain. Travel impacts are likely, so plan accordingly and stay off the roads if possible.

Uncertainty: The exact track of the storm is still uncertain, which could affect how much snow, sleet, and freezing rain we receive. Stay tuned for updates as forecasts are refined.

Impact Level: The National Weather Service has raised concerns to a growing level, so now is the time to prepare. Icy roads and power outages are possible, so stock up on essentials and have an emergency kit ready.

Tuesday, December 31, 2024

Ferry closed for high winds

FERRY has resumed operation.


ORIGINAL POST

Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at approximately 7:35 a.m., Cave In Rock Ferry closed due to high west winds and will remain closed until further notice.