US 60 remains open through Livingston County

With nearly 10 inches of rain already on the ground and more expected this weekend, Livingston County Judge-Executive Michael Williams says the county is keeping a close eye on the Ohio River level, which stood at 48.5 feet this morning at the Smithland gauge. Officials say trouble could begin if the river climbs to 49 feet or higher.

“If it gets around 51, we’ll have to sandbag in Smithland along the levee and the street in town around the mansion, about 5,000 feet,” Williams said. “We’re hoping it stays under that, but we’re preparing just in case.”

Sandbagging efforts are currently focused on flash flooding from creeks threatening homes, particularly in Ledbetter. Williams noted that US 60 is open all the way through the county.

“We’ll have to do at least a small stretch of sandbagging on Monday for sure, depending on how fast the river comes up,” Williams said.

As of this morning, Cedar Grove Road near Salem and Tucker Temple Road near Iuka were the only roads in the county closed due to high water. Williams said a few dead end county roads have water over them. 

HIGH WATER SATURDAY | Area Road Closures

 ROAD CLOSURES:

Several roads are closed due to high water across Crittenden and Lyon counties. Motorists are urged to use caution and avoid flooded areas.

Crittenden County:

• Emmaus Church Road

• Claylick Road

• Enon Church Road

• Providence Road

• Cool Springs Road

• Blackburn Church Road

• Phin Croft

• Tabor Road

• KY 855 is closed at mile point 5 between U.S. 60 and KY 70.

• KY 902 is closed at mile point 5 between Drennan Road and Union Grove School Road. (New)

• KY 1113 / Tabor Road (shared with Lyon County) is closed due to high water.

Lyon County:

• U.S. 62 is closed near mile point 6.6 at I-24 Exit 40 (near Hucks Travel Center).

• KY 295 S is closed near mile point 3.6 at the entrance of U.S. 62.

• KY 1943 is closed between mile points 3-4 near the Skinframe Creek Bridge.

• KY 819 is closed at mile point 2.3 (Panther Creek) and open but impacted by high water between mile points 6-7 (between KY 93 and Jack Thomason Road).

• KY 1113 / Tabor Road (shared with Crittenden County) is closed.

• KY 1055 (Buzzard Creek) is closed at mile point 1.2. (New)

Reminder: Do not drive around or move signs, barrels, or barricades. Even if a road is not listed, high water remains possible. Turn around, don’t drown.

Hospital hosts open house of therapy center

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Livingston Hospital will host an open house for its ic completed therapy and office complex on Tuesday, April 8.

The Clifton and Thelma Jo Arflack Therapy Center is located at 727 Main Street in Salem, just east of Livingston Hospital.

Tour the center and the Livingston Hospital Foundation Community Center next door between 3-6 p.m.

Marion declares state of emergency

Marion Mayor D’Anna Browning on Friday declared a local state of emergency in Marion following widespread flooding caused by a severe weather system that struck Crittenden County on April 4.

The declaration, Executive Order 2025-05, activates the city’s emergency response plan and places all local emergency agencies on high alert. The order also enables city and county officials to bypass normal procedures to respond to the flooding, including entering contracts, using volunteer workers and spending public funds.

Browning said the storm brought significant rainfall that overwhelmed the area, prompting full coordination between city, county and state resources for disaster response and recovery.

CAVE-IN-ROCK FERRY | Rising River will idle it soon

SEE RIVER STAGE ONLINE HERE

The Ohio River at Shawneetown is on the rise and expected to surpass the 41-foot mark early next week, likely forcing a temporary shutdown of the Cave-In-Rock Ferry.

As of 10:30 a.m. CDT on April 4, the river stage was 29.19 feet — just below the 30-foot "action" threshold. The National Weather Service forecasts the river will exceed minor flood stage (33 feet) Saturday and reach 41 feet, the typical cutoff point for ferry operations, by Sunday night or early Monday.

The river is projected to crest at 52.3 feet on April 12, which would be just shy of major flood stage (53 feet). The Cave-In-Rock Ferry, which connects Crittenden County, Ky., with Hardin County, Ill., has historically suspended service around the 41-foot mark due to low-lying approaches becoming impassable.

Local officials and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet are expected to monitor conditions closely and announce any service suspensions as the river rises.

Buntin Auction moves Saturday sale to KY 297

Click Image to Enlarge

Notice: The Keith Barnes auction originally 

scheduled for Montevista St., in Salem Saturday, April 5, has been moved.

The sale will now take place at Buntin Auction Service, 4736 State Route 297 in Marion.

STATE HIGHWAYS CLOSED THIS MORNING

State Highways Crittenden County: KY 855 is CLOSED with high water at the 5 MM. This is between U.S. 60 and KY 70 near the intersection of Frances Road. Also, Tabor Road is closed at the Lyon County Line at Livingston Creek.

COUNTY ROADS CLOSED: Emmaus Church Road, Claylick Road, Enon Church Road, Providence Road, Cool Springs Road, Blackburn Church Road, Phin Croft and Tabor Road. 

In Lyon County: KY 1943 is CLOSED with high water between the 3-4 MM near Skinframe Creek Bridge. This is the backroads route traffic is using to avoid the closed bridge on KY 295. 

Crittenden County saw about 2 inches of rainfall overnight Wednesday and another 2 inches last night for a total of 4 inches over the past couple of days, and more is forest to come. 

HOW TO DEAL WITH RECORD RAINFALL

CONVENIENCE CENTER CLOSED | Crittenden County Convenience Center will be closed today and Saturday due to weather. With all the rain in the forecast and all the flooding issues in hte county, Crittenden County Judge-Executive Perry Newcom said convenience center personnel will be needed to provide assistance on road work. The center will reopen Monday. 

In Caldwell County, KY 91/from Fredonia to Princeton is closed.

KY 139/Farmersville Rd is closed between the 14.4-14.7 mile points 

April is National Donate LIfe Month

Each April, the Circuit Court Clerks of Kentucky lead the celebration of National Donate Life Month — a time to honor the generous gift of donation and increase education about the critical need for organ, eye, and tissue donors.

This April, Donate Life Kentucky Trust is proud to share powerful local impact: In 2023 alone, 320 lives were saved through transplants at UK and UofL Jewish Hospitals—and 192 of those lifesaving organs came from registered donors.

“These numbers are extraordinary,” said Melissa Guill, Crittenden Co. Circuit Clerk. “That’s 192 people who made a selfless decision during their lifetime—one that became a miracle for someone else. Our Donate Life Kentucky Trust organization and our supporters have worked tirelessly to inspire and educate Kentuckians since 1992. These efforts are literally saving lives. It fills me with pride and gratitude.”

Behind every registered donor is the possibility of healing. Sadly, when individuals are not registered, families are often hesitant to say “yes” during times of tragedy. Registering in advance brings clarity and compassion—and increases the chance that lives will be saved. Everyone is encouraged to share your generous decision with your family.

This month, Donate Life Kentucky Trust also celebrates a new milestone in accessibility: the MyChart Patient Portal now connects directly to the National Donate Life Registry, making it easier than ever for patients to register as donors with just a few clicks.

This year’s Donate Life Month theme is “Let Life Sing!” featuring artwork inspired by birds—symbols of hope, renewal, and messages from those we’ve lost. As spring returns, so does Kentucky’s commitment to honoring the life and legacy of donors.

---

Ways to Participate in National Donate Life Month 2025:

• Register your decision to be an organ, eye, and tissue donor at the KYTC Regional Driver’s License Office, on RegisterMe.org, or in your iPhone Health app. Make sure you tell your family of your decision.
• Educate your family and friends on the impact of donation and encourage them to Register.
• Explore living donation as a way to give the gift of life while still living.
• Shine a Light on donation and transplantation by lighting up your home in blue & green. Tag @donatelifekentucky in photos on social media.

---

April Events to Celebrate the Donate Life Mission:

• Donate Life Blue & Green Spirit Week – April 5–12, 2025
  A week of daily themes dedicated to outreach, appreciation, and education.
• National Donate Life Blue & Green Day – April 11, 2025
  Wear blue and green to raise awareness and join the national photo contest!
• National Pediatric Transplant Week – April 20–26, 2025
  A week focused on ending the pediatric transplant waiting list and recognizing children’s hospitals across the region for their lifesaving work.

Historic flooding expected over weekend

A rare and dangerous weather pattern is forecast to continue through the weekend, putting much of western Kentucky at risk for severe storms and catastrophic flooding, according to the National Weather Service.

Thunderstorm threats remain elevated with a Level 2 of 5 (Slight Risk) rating for Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Western Kentucky is expected to see the greatest risk on Saturday, including damaging winds, large hail and isolated tornadoes.

Forecasters are particularly concerned about rainfall, which could total 4 to 8 additional inches through Saturday night. Combined with 1 to 4 inches already fallen, this may result in historic flash flooding, river rises and damage in areas that don’t typically flood. Crittenden County received 2.1 inches of rainfall overnight Wednesday. 

A flood watch remains in effect through Saturday night.

“This is a particularly dangerous situation,” the NWS said in a briefing. “Impacts from this event will be significant, and may be historic.”

Another round of severe weather is possible Sunday. All modes of severe weather — including tornadoes, very large hail and damaging wind gusts — are possible.

Residents are urged to review severe weather plans, prepare for flooding, and monitor updated forecasts.

Truckers get weather waiver

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has granted a 14-day Hours of Service Waiver and exemption from stopping at weigh stations for commercial vehicles responding to severe weather and flooding over the weekend.

The waiver applies to trucks hauling gasoline, diesel, propane, food, water, medical supplies, livestock feed and animals, poultry, and crops ready for harvest in affected areas. Drivers must carry a copy of the official order in their vehicle cab.

Livingston Museum opens on Saturday

Livingston County Historical Courthouse Museum will open for the season Saturday and will be open every first Saturday of the month from April to October from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. 

The museum is located in downtown historic Smithland in the old courthouse and features displays and exhibits of historical interest, highlights events of the past and includes stories of the people who lived and worked in Livingston county. 

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Four-family auction April 12

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Hoover 's Auctions will conduct a multi-family auction on KY 654 North in Marion on Saturday, April 12.

The sale will begin at 9 a.m., and will include equipment, farm machinery, tools and more.

Four families have contributed items to the sale, conducted at 3010 KY 654 North.

See HooversAuctions.com for more details.

Severe Weather Alert

7pm Estimate

 🚨 Severe Weather Alert 🚨

⚠️ A rare and dangerous storm system is developing TODAY and will last through SATURDAY.

🌪️ HIGH RISK (Level 5/5) of severe thunderstorms this afternoon and tonight, including:

• Long-track tornadoes

• Widespread damaging winds

• Large to very large hail

🌧️ 7–12 inches of rain expected through Saturday night.
🚨 Catastrophic flash flooding possible.

💨 Winds today could gust 45–55 mph even outside of storms.
📍 Flood Watches already in effect.

🕑 Storms will begin developing after 5 p.m., here and move very fast (60–70 mph).
🚗 If a warning is issued, take shelter immediately—don’t wait!

📅 Thursday–Saturday: Continued threat of severe storms and potentially historic flooding.

📅 Sunday: Another round of severe weather possible.

📢 Make a plan NOW. Stay weather-aware. 
LOCAL STORM SHELTERS: Mexico Baptist Church | Marion Baptist Church | Marion Methodist Church

📱 Follow @NWSPaducah for the latest updates.
#SevereWeather #FloodWatch #TornadoWarning #StaySafe #KYwx

Enon church hosts Easter event

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Celebrate the Easter season with a Walk Through Calvary at Enon General Baptist Church.

Between April 16-19, visitors to the church grounds 

can read the scriptures that Jesus experienced each 

night before the crucifixion.

On Sunday, April 20, the empty tomb will celebrate Jesus' resurrection.

Services are at 7 nightly, with Easter services beginning at 7 a.m., April 20.

Riverview Park fees going up

Beginning immediately, visitors to Riverview Park will see higher costs for camping and reservation fees following a set of rate adjustments approved last week by Crittenden County Fiscal Court, which owns and operates the facility on the Ohio River. 

Judge-Executive Perry Newcom told magistrates that the park’s oversight committee met earlier this month and determined that based on inflationary pressures on its budget, a cost adjustment was needed to meet financial needs and to bring the fees more into line with other campgrounds around the region.

Newcom said the camping rates have not seen an increase in many years. The committee presented its request to magistrates who approved the new price plan.

Changes include increases for overnight RV camping, reservation fees, credit card processing charges, and cancellation penalties.

Under the new rates, RV camping fees will rise from $20 to $30 per night. The reservation fee will increase from $3 to $5 per booking, while credit card processing charges will also go up.

Cancellation fees will also see adjustments. If a reservation is canceled with at least 48 hours' notice, the fee will increase from $15 to $25. For cancellations made with less than 48 hours' notice, the penalty will rise from $25 to $35.

These rate adjustments reflect the park's effort to cover operational costs and maintain facilities for visitors. The changes are expected to take effect soon, with officials encouraging campers to plan accordingly.

Pass Pest Control serves Marion area

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Shopping around for pest control services? Consider Pass Pest Control, servicing western Kentucky.

Pass Pest Control's ownership and staff have more than 40 years experience.

Call today for more information (270) 477-6695.

Lyon County Sheriff's Report

- On Sunday, March 23, 2025, around 9:40 p.m., Sheriff Brent White investigated a single-vehicle collision on U.S. 641 North. The investigation revealed a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Noah M. Campbell, 22, of Eddyville, was southbound on U.S. 641 when the driver became fatigued before leaving the roadway and colliding with a mailbox. There were no injuries reported in the collision.

- On Monday, March 24, 2025, around 3 p.m., Sheriff Brent White served a criminal summons on Tabitha Szmanda, 39, of Eddyville. She was charged by the local school district with Parent or Custodian to Send Child to School – 1st or 2nd Offense. Szmanda faces an April court date in Lyon District Court to answer for this offense.

- On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, around 9:15 a.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams served a citation on Steven Warfield, 47, of Kuttawa, charging him with obstructing a roadway. The Sheriff’s Office received complaints from the State Fire Marshal’s Office and County Judge-Executive reporting this subject had laid an electrical line across a county roadway to service property reportedly belonging to Warfield. He faces an April court date in Lyon District Court to answer for this offense.

- On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, around 1:30 p.m., Deputy Lori Francis served a bench warrant on Tiffany Kendrick, 42, of Pikeville. She was charged with a Floyd Circuit Court bench warrant for nonpayment of court costs, fees or fines. Kendrick will remain in state custody pending extradition back to Floyd County.

- On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, around 8:50 a.m., Capt. Dennis Beckett arrested Jasmine J. Jones, 36, of Jennings, Mo., after she was found to be a fugitive from Lyon District Court. Jones was served with a 2018 bench warrant charging her with failure to appear in court. She was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

- On Thursday, March 27, 2025, around 7:20 p.m., sheriff’s deputies and a Kentucky State Police trooper responded to a residence on Ky. 293 for a fugitive complaint. While at a residence in the 2000 block of Ky. 293, a vehicle pulled up and quickly accelerated from the home. The vehicle was stopped by law enforcement. Fugitive Joshua E. Harper, 35, of Eddyville, was arrested by Deputy Shannon Oliver and charged with two Lyon District Court bench warrants for failure to appear in court on drug, trespassing and menacing-related cases. In addition, KSP charged Harper with driving on a DUI-suspended license – 1st offense, no or expired registration, no insurance, obstructed windshield and failure to notify DOT of address change. Harper was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

- On Saturday, March 29, 2025, around 4:30 a.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams responded to a runaway juvenile complaint south of Eddyville. His investigation revealed a child left their home in the late-night hours and was missing when the mother awoke to go to work early that morning. Chief Deputy Adams initiated a search and requested assistance from EM Director Randy Wright, DCBS social workers and Sheriff Brent White. The initial search did not reveal any trace of the child near their home in Lyon County. The investigation later revealed the child was located around 10:40 a.m. at a residence in Princeton. The child was initially returned to the custody of the mother and later transferred to a residential treatment facility out of the county.

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Barnes auction is April 5

Click Image to Enlarge

Buntin Auction Service will sell the personal property 

of Keith Barnes beginning at 9 a.m., Saturday, April 5.

Located at Montevista St., in Salem, the sale features household items, furniture and personal effects, plus outdoor equipment including mowers, tools and more. 

Contact Curt Buntin for more information.

Croft joins KY Court of Honor

Jimmy Croft along with family and supporters from
Crittenden and Livingston counties.

Jimmy Croft, the all-time winningest boys basketball coach in Crittenden County High School history and a Rocket Hall of Famer, was recognized today at Rupp Arena as part of the Sweet 16 Boys Basketball Tournament by the Kentucky Association of Basketball Coaches Court of Honor. 

Croft coached the Rockets at his alma mater from 1995 to 2005. When he took the job, Crittenden hadn’t had a winning season in more than 20 years. Over a 10-year period, his squads won 138 games and lost 117. In 1998, Croft and his Rockets won the Fifth District championship — one of only two CCHS has won since 1957. Croft’s 2000 Rockets won 20 games for the first time since Marion and Crittenden consolidated schools in the 1950s. 

Croft was head coach of the Lady Rockets from 1985 to 1990 with a 61-51 record. He was boys’ head coach at Livingston from 2006 to 2011 with a 56-67 record. Croft was also an assistant coach at CCHS and at Trigg County, when his son Payton was head coach there. Croft’s career head coaching record is 255-235 over 20 years, and he coached 16 more years as an assistant.

Travis speaking Saturday at Vietnam ceremony in Fredonia

JT Travis in a Press file photo

Vietnam War veteran J.T. Travis, who served two tours in the U.S. Marine Corps, will be among the featured speakers during a ceremony Saturday, March 29, honoring those who served during the Vietnam War era.

The event, hosted by the Fredonia Valley Heritage Society and Fredonia American Legion Post 103, will begin at 1 p.m. at the Fredonia Valley Veterans Memorial. It coincides with National Vietnam War Veterans Day — designated by federal law to be observed each year on March 29.

The public is invited to attend. All Vietnam War veterans in attendance will be recognized and presented with a commemorative challenge coin. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. A flyover by an Air Evac helicopter is also planned, and gifts will be given away through a drawing, including an engraved brick to be placed at the memorial and a copy of Veterans of the Fredonia Valley.

National Vietnam War Veterans Day marks the March 29, 1973, disestablishment of the U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, and the departure of the last U.S. combat troops. Around that same time, Hanoi released the final group of its acknowledged American prisoners of war.

The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration honors all veterans who served on active duty from Nov. 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975 — whether in-country, in-theater, or stationed elsewhere — as well as their families. The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates between six and seven million U.S. Vietnam veterans are living today, along with millions of their family members.

Challenge coins and engraved bricks will be available for purchase at the event. Each $25 coin sold helps provide a free coin to a veteran. Bricks are $50.

Organizers encourage all Americans to thank Vietnam veterans for their service and sacrifice.

“You answered the call of duty with bravery and selflessness, and we will never forget all you’ve done to keep us safe and free,” organizers stated. “On behalf of a grateful nation, thank you — from the bottom of our hearts.”

According to the latest Census figures, therea e 274 Vietnam veterans living in Caldwell County, 214 in Crittenden and over 75,000 in Kentucky.

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MARCH MADNESS BONUS PODCAST

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Tipoff 6:39pm in Indianapolis

FRIDAY, MARCH 28

No. 3 Seed Kentucky

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No. 2 Seed Tennessee

PREVIEW BY TRACE DERRINGTON

- Journalism | Multimedia student at Murray State -

THURSDAY NEWscast | Beware of Closed Roads

 

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Roads, Bridges, Turkeys, Ballgames, Auto Renewals

Electronic subscription price increase

As of the first of this month, the price of The Crittenden Press newspaper increased to $2 per issue. All electronic subscription rates have now been updated to reflect a price increase, but by a lower percentage than the single-copy rate.

We truly regret having to raise our prices, but in today’s economic climate – faced with ongoing inflation, particularly rising postage, newsprint and insurance costs – this adjustment is necessary in order to continue publishing the paper you count on each week.

It is worth noting that this is our first significant across-the-board increase in many years, and the first single-copy price increase in more than 20 years.

For those looking for the most economical way to stay informed, our email edition remains the best value. It is delivered straight to your inbox every Wednesday around noon with a convenient link to the full newspaper. It may not feel the same, but it looks just like our traditional version.

Access to our website, The-Press.com, remains free for breaking news, sports and other community information, such as election results, court news and more.

If you would like to switch your subscription type or have any questions about the new rates, please call our office at 270-965-3191 during regular business hours or email us at thepress@the-press.com.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding. As one of the very last family-owned newspapers in all of western Kentucky, we remain devoted to this community and enjoy bringing you news, sports and information – and perhaps as importantly, chronicling for posterity. Our mission includes writing an accurate history of our county.

KSP offers Youth Academy Program

Gov. Andy Beshear and the Kentucky State Police (KSP) are encouraging young Kentuckians interested in a career in law enforcement to apply for the second annual Youth Academy Program. The weeklong camp, set for July 21–25, 2025, at Trooper Island Camp on Dale Hollow Lake, is designed to introduce participants to law enforcement principles while fostering leadership skills and physical fitness.

“The Kentucky State Police Youth Academy Program offers an outstanding opportunity for young Kentuckians to gain firsthand experience in law enforcement,” Beshear said. “By supporting those who want to pursue a career in law enforcement, Kentucky will continue to be a national leader in public safety.”

Applications are now open for Kentuckians ages 16–17, with a deadline of June 10. The program is free to participants.

KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. emphasized the importance of early engagement in law enforcement career development. “By engaging with young Kentuckians early, we are helping them explore career options and choose the path that best aligns with their goals,” he said.

Throughout the week, participants will engage in a variety of activities, including training in forensic techniques, crime scene analysis and commercial vehicle enforcement. They will also take part in team-building exercises and learn about core law enforcement values and ethics.

Trooper Island Camp Commander Scott Ferrell noted the success of last year’s inaugural program, which graduated 23 participants from 17 counties across the state. “Having the opportunity to watch young individuals grow, learn and develop leadership skills through this innovative program is truly rewarding,” Ferrell said.

According to the national Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Office, youth law enforcement academies are an effective tool for recruiting future officers while providing essential education on public safety.

KSP remains committed to strengthening its workforce to better reflect Kentucky’s diverse communities and enhance public safety. Those interested in applying for the Youth Academy Program can find more information on the KSP website.

Will a new local tax be rolled out this fall?

Like we mentioned on yesterday's NEWScast, Crittenden County is considering a new local taxing district to collect money that will help pay for the ambulance service, plus shore up a lack of funding in the E-911 department.

A special meeting will be held next week to hear more about the proposal.

Get all the details in this week's full edition of The Crittenden Press, which will be on newsstands today around now, or dropping in your in-box.

Cattle prices are up across Southeast

Cattle prices surged to new records last week, with five-weight steer average prices in Mississippi exceeding $321 per hundredweight (cwt). Kentucky reported averages above $332 per cwt, while Oklahoma City reached $354 per cwt – marking a sharp increase from year-ago levels, according to a newsletter published regularly by Josh Maples of the Mississippi Extension Service. Cull cow and bull prices have also climbed to all-time highs.

The 2025 CME feeder cattle futures contracts have shown exceptional strength, surpassing historical records. The May 2025 CME Feeder Cattle contract closed above $280 per cwt on Friday, March 14, while the September 2025 contract ended the week above $283 per cwt. These new highs eclipse the previous record of $241, set during the 2014-2015 period.

This upward trend reflects strong market confidence in cattle prices for 2025. The latest USDA World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) project live cattle prices to average $200 per cwt in 2025, up from $187 in 2024.

Many Southeastern producers currently have calves on the ground with plans to sell later this year. Given the optimistic market outlook, experts suggest considering price risk management strategies. Tools such as futures and options trading, Livestock Risk Protection (LRP), and forward contracting could help producers secure favorable prices while safeguarding against potential market declines.

Controlled Burns on Area WMAs

 🔥🌿 Prescribed Fires Planned in KY WMAs 🌿🔥

Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources will be working with local officials to conduct prescribed fires in several counties this March & April as part of habitat management on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs).

✅ Why use fire?

To support healthy ecosystems by: • Boosting nut & fruit production 🌰🍓

• Regenerating oaks 🌳

• Controlling invasive plants 🚫🌿

• Creating open ground space 🌾

🔥 Local Impact 🔥

Prescribed fires are planned in several counties, including:

📍 Livingston County – Livingston County WMA

📍 Union County – Higginson-Henry & Big Rivers WMAs

📍 Crittenden County - Big Rivers WMA

Fire managers will only proceed when conditions are safe and ideal. Portions of WMAs may temporarily close, and signs/gates will mark affected areas. Fires will be carefully monitored until completely out.

💨 If smoke is in the air, protect your health:

🔗 Fires and Your Health | AirNow.gov

🌐 Learn more about Kentucky WMAs:

👉 fw.ky.gov

#PrescribedFire #KYWildlife #WMA #KentuckyOutdoors #CrittendenCounty #LivingstonCounty #UnionCounty #HabitatManagement #ControlledBurns 🔥🌾

Crittenden Board of Education meets tonight

Crittenden County Board of Education will hold its regular meeting tonight (March 25) at 5:30 p.m. in Rocket Arena. 

Following the welcome and Pledge of Allegiance, the board will consider approval of the meeting agenda. Recognitions will include Rocket Way Students of the Month and Heart of a Rocket recipients, both presented by Tiffany Blazina. 

Reports will be shared from various departments, including SBDM minutes, food service, enrollment, and technology, along with the superintendent’s update, which includes personnel notices, the spring athletic calendar, thank-you acknowledgments, and information on the 2025 bond sale. 

Routine matters will be approved, including previous meeting minutes and the superintendent’s report. 

The consent agenda features financial reports, fundraisers, and approval of trips for the high school softball team and FCCLA group. 

Action items include a shortened school week for a student, contracts for summer benefits and HVAC maintenance, the 2025-2026 preschool calendar, payment applications related to the middle school addition and GESC project, and options for disbursing funds from the Vince Clark Rocket Foundation and Fohs Hall scholarship. 

Additional approvals will address graduation-related events, bid renewals, surplus equipment, insurance renewals, grant agreements, a storm damage roof repair payment, Project Graduation donation, new event coordinator stipends for baseball and softball, surplus technology, the creation of a district digital learning coach position, and revisions to the current school calendar and middle school construction documents. 

Old Kentucky Hayride is Saturday at Fohs

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The spring edition of Old Kentucky Hayride returns 

to Fohs Hall Saturday, March 29. The event begins at 

7 p.m. Admission is $5.

The event features the talents of a host of local musicians.

Fohs Hall hosts a number of events and is the community's historical event center.

Two highway projects will disrupt traffic next week

Two highway closures are set to impact Crittenden County motorists next week, including a months-long bridge project on Dam 50 Road and a brief U.S. 60 shutdown.

Starting at 8 a.m. Monday, March 31, KY 387 (Dam 50 Road) will close at mile point 0.77 for construction of a new bridge over Crooked Creek, according to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. The closure — about three-quarters of a mile east of KY 91 — will block access to KY 91 for most residents along the 3-mile stretch of KY 387 closest to Dam 50 at Riverview Park. 

There will be no marked detour, so drivers, including local farmers and Riverview Park visitors, should use Cotton Patch Road and KY 654 as an alternate route.

 Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will also close a section of US 60 between Salem and Marion starting at 7 a.m. Tuesday,  April 1. The closure, scheduled to coincide with Crittenden County Schools’ spring break, will be between KY 855 and KY 297 in the New Salem area. Crews will remove and replace a concrete box culvert at the 1.13-mile marker that carries a tributary of Dry Fork Creek beneath the highway. Work is expected to be completed by 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 2, weather permitting.

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Special Sports Analyst and Former Rocket

Trace Derrington helps us break down the

Wildcats win over Illinois in the NCAA Tournamennt

Cumberland River shoreline meetings

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nashville District invites the public to attend a public workshop to provide input for the 2025 Lake Barkley Shoreline Management Plan update.    The review and update of the SMP is accomplished every five years. It contains policies and guidelines for the effective long-range management of the shoreline resources on Lake Barkley. A copy of the 2025 draft plan is available at https://usace.contentdm.oclc.org/utils/getfile/collection/p16021coll7/id/27349.   The public workshops are scheduled 6 to 8 p.m. on these dates and these locations:   March 25: Lyon Convention Center at Lee S. Jones Park in Eddyville, Kentucky. March 27: Lake Barkley State Resort Park Sunrise Room in Cadiz, Kentucky. April 1: Stewart County Visitor Center in Dover, Tennessee.   During this review process, public workshops are held so the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers can receive public input.  Attendees are encouraged to bring useful items such as photos and documents and be prepared to share any recommendations and/or concerns.     Although USACE cannot grant every request, the Corps of Engineers will actively evaluate each comment and make sound natural resource management decisions to provide optimum use and protection of finite lake resources.   “Our primary goals for management of Lake Barkley are to establish and maintain acceptable fish and wildlife habitat, preserve natural aesthetic qualities, and promote the safe and healthful use of the lake and surrounding lands by the public. Your ideas and comments concerning this review are helpful and provide valuable insight to improve the plan,” said Kayl Kite, Lake Barkley resource manager.    Participants can make a brief public comment or submit a comment card. The public can also comment by e-mailing lakebarkley@usace.army.mil or by sending mail: Resource Manager’s Office, Lake Barkley, P.O. Box 218, Grand Rivers, KY, 42045. Written comments are accepted for 30 days following the public workshops.  The public can obtain news, updates and information from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nashville District on the district’s website at https://www.lrd.usace.army.mil/About/Districts/Nashville-District/, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/nashvillecorps and on X (formerly Twitter) at www.x.com/nashvillecorps. Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest Nashville District employment and contracting opportunities at https://www.linkedin.com/company/u-s-army-corps-of-engineers-nashville-district.

Contact: Public Affairs Office, 615-736-7161 chief.public-affairs@usace.army.mil

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Buntin accepting spring consignment items

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Consignments are being accepted for Buntin Auction Service's annual spring consignment sale.

Contact Curt Buntin at (270) 704-0726 to schedule your consignment.

Farm equipment of all types will be accepted.

Wind and other potential weather today

 The weather briefing from the National Weather Service in Paducah for Western Kentucky highlights several important alerts:

• Wind Advisory: In effect from 8 AM to 7 PM CDT, with gusts reaching up to 50 mph. Travel hazards and potential power outages are expected.
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• Heightened Fire Danger: A Red Flag Warning is in place from 11 AM to 8 PM due to strong winds, dry vegetation, and low humidity.
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• Severe Storm Risk: Showers and thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and evening, with the potential for damaging winds, large hail, and possibly a tornado. The highest risk is in northwest Kentucky.

I-69 Interchange Public Meeting

As a reminder, a public meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 20, to gather public input on the I-69 Interchange Re-configuration Project. This project spans approximately two miles and crosses the Tennessee-Kentucky state line, connecting the proposed Interstate 69 in Tennessee (currently U.S. 51) with Interstate 69 (formerly the Purchase Parkway) in Kentucky.

The preferred alternative generally follows the U.S. 51 alignment, creating a new sweeping curve to the east near State Line Road. Additionally, it reconstructs the U.S. 51/U.S. 45E/U.S. 45W interchange at its current location to improve connectivity and traffic flow.

The public meeting will be held on March 20 from 5 to 7 p.m., at **South Fulton Middle and High School, 1302 John C. Jones Parkway, South Fulton, TN 38257. 

Led by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) in partnership with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), the meeting will follow an open house format. Attendees will have the opportunity to view exhibits, speak with TDOT staff and project team members, and ask questions about the project. There will be no formal presentation.

For those who wish to provide feedback, comment sheets will be available at the meeting. Additionally, written comments may be submitted within 21 days after the meeting date to the following address:

LBL hosts Girl Scout Day

Woodlands Nature Station in Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area will host Girl Scout Day: Wonders of Nature on Saturday, March 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering scout troops and families a chance to explore wildlife and earn badges.

Scouts of all levels Daisies, Brownies, Juniors and Cadettes can participate in hands-on activities led by naturalists and volunteers to meet badge requirements. Activities include tree identification hikes, live animal encounters, and insect crafts. The badges covered are Design with Nature for Daisies, Bugs for Brownies, Animal Habitats for Juniors and Trees for Cadettes.

“We will be learning all about wonders of nature for this year’s Girl Scout Day,” said Vanessa Sivils, a naturalist at the Nature Station.

The event is open to everyone, including siblings and non-scouts. Visitors should plan for up to a three-hour visit to complete all activities. Admission is $7 for ages 16 and older and free for those 15 and under.

The Woodlands Nature Station is located at 3146 Silver Trail Road in Cadiz.

Check out Crayne Tires in Princeton

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In the market for new tires? What about heavy equipment rental?

Give Roy Crayne and his staff a call at Crayne Tires in Princeton.

This new business on East Legion Drive is beating the competition. Check their tire prices before you buy.  

CCHS SBDM to meet Thursday

Crittenden County High School's Site-Based, Decision-Making Council meets at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, March 20 in the school library. 

TRAFFIC ALERT | I-24 Bridge Inspection

A contractor for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) is planning a daytime lane restriction on the Interstate 24 Cumberland River Bridge starting on Monday, March 24. 

Crews will be using an under-bridge inspection vehicle (UBIV) to inspect the bridge starting at 8 a.m. each day for approximately five days.

Motorists should be alert for signage and trucks with arrow boards guiding traffic to shift into the open lane, as work will alternate from one side of the bridge to the other. 

The Interstate 24 Cumberland River Bridge, which also carries Interstate 69, are twin structures at the Livingston-Lyon County Line at the 33.67 MM on I-24. The structures carry just over 30,000 vehicles across the Cumberland River in an average day.

The inspection is expected to be completed by Friday, March 28, weather permitting.

Three deadly officer-involved incidents in W.KY over past week

Western Kentucky has seen three officer-involved shootings in the past week, spanning Lyon, Trigg, and Christian counties. Each incident involved law enforcement engaging with armed suspects, resulting in the deaths of the individuals involved. The Kentucky State Police (KSP) is investigating all three cases.

The most recent occurred early Monday in Kuttawa, where a Lyon County Sheriff’s deputy stopped a vehicle linked to a Marshall County shooting. The encounter at Huck’s Travel Center led to a deadly force incident, leaving the suspect dead while the deputy remained unharmed.

Last Tuesday, a high-speed pursuit that began in Lyon County ended in Trigg County, where the suspect crashed, fled on foot, and fired at law enforcement, striking a deputy. Officers returned fire, killing 21-year-old Jermaine Terrell Jackson Jr. The injured deputy was transported to Vanderbilt Medical Center in stable condition.

Another shooting took place early Sunday in Crofton, where Christian County deputies responded to a domestic violence call. Upon arrival, 39-year-old Patrick J. Martinez opened fire on deputies, who returned fire and fatally shot him.

KSP’s Critical Incident Response Team is conducting investigations into all three incidents, with further details expected after witness interviews and evidence reviews. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and offer support to officers and families affected by the violence.

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Mayor Browning talks about veterans
banner project for Main and Carlisle streets

Henry & Henry having monument sale

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A 5 percent discount is offered through March 31 on monuments purchased at Henry & Henry in Marion.

Monuments paid in full at time of purchase qualify for this winter discount.

Call (270) 965-4514 to learn more.

Lyon County Weekly Sheriff's Activity

 LYON COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

- On Sunday, March 9, 2025, just after 3pm, Sheriff Brent White responded to a disturbance complaint on Hayden Drive in the city of Eddyville. Following an investigation, Sheriff White arrested Breanna M. Castello (34) of Eddyville. Castello was charged with Assault-4th Degree. She was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

- On Sunday, March 9, 2025, just after 7:30pm, Deputy David Carroll made a traffic stop on a 2003 Buick on KY 93 South for speeding. Following a roadside investigation, he arrested the driver, identified as Chase R. Deason (29) of Eddyville. Deason was charged with Speeding, Driving on a DUI Suspended License-1st Offense, Possession of Marijuana, and Drug Paraphernalia-Possession. Deason was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

- On Monday, March 10, 2025, around 10:30am, Sheriff Brent White responded to a reported collision on KY 1199. His investigation revealed a 2001 Chevrolet pickup truck, driven by Michael J. Gregory (68) of Eddyville, was South on KY 1199 when it sideswiped a 2023 Ram van driven by Diego A. Gonzalez Martinez (34) of Martin, TN, which was North on KY 1199. No injuries were reported in the collision. 

- On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, around 11am, Sheriff Brent White responded to a reported collision on Eddy Creek Marina Road off KY 93 South. His investigation revealed a 2017 Toyota pickup truck, driven by Willard D. Johnson (66) of Eddyville was West when the driver engaged in a coughing spell which resulted in him losing consciousness, before losing control and leaving the roadway. The Toyota collided with four wooden traffic barriers before impacting a large tree. Lyon County EMS responded to the scene; however, the driver declined transport to the hospital. No injuries were reported in the collision. 

- On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, just after 8:30pm, Deputies David Carroll, Shannon Oliver, and Josh Travis answered a complaint regarding a fugitive on Green Road. They identified a residence where the subject had been seen previously and conducted surveillance on it. At one point, a person matching the description of the fugitive appeared outside on a porch. He apparently saw deputies and immediately fled on foot. A foot pursuit ensued with the fleeing fugitive crossing Green Road before entering a rugged terrain area. All three deputies gave chase and attempted to locate the fugitive. He was later located in a thick brushy area and after refusing verbal commands to surrender, he was the recipient of a Taser deployment. He continued to physically resist arrest until all three deputies were able to take him into custody without further incident. The Kuttawa Fire Department and Lyon County EMS responded to the scene and assisted deputies. 

The fugitive, identified as Michael W. Overbaugh (40) of Owensboro, was taken to a local hospital for evaluation before being released. Overbaugh was charged by Deputy David Carroll with Fleeing/Evading Police-1st Degree (on foot), and Resisting Arrest. Overbaugh was charged by Deputy Josh Travis with a

Check out Round 2 Boutique

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Earn a coupon for your next visit when you spend 

$35 – that's the savings offered by Round 2 Boutique 

on Main Street in Marion.

Round 2 is located next to Mike & Stoner's Barber 

Shop on South Main Street.

Round 2 sells children's and adult's clothings at oh-so affordable prices.

Deputy shoots man in Christian County

A Christian County man was fatally shot by law enforcement early Sunday after allegedly opening fire on deputies responding to a domestic violence call.

The Kentucky State Police Post 2 in Madisonville said it was asked by the Christian County Sheriff’s Office to investigate the officer-involved shooting, which occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Clark Store Sinking Fork Road in Crofton.

According to a preliminary investigation, deputies arrived at the scene after receiving a report of a physical domestic violence incident. Upon their arrival, Patrick J. Martinez, 39, of Crofton, began shooting at law enforcement. Deputies returned fire, striking Martinez, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

KSP, which investigates officer-involved shootings statewide, said it will not release further details until witnesses have been interviewed and key facts have been gathered. The length of the investigation will depend on the complexity of the case.

Marion Tornado Shelter

Marion Baptist Church will open its basement at midnight tonight and remain open until the threat of potentially hazardous weather passes.

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