UPCOMING Back to School Events

Crittenden County Schools’ back-to-school events are just around the corner as students prepare to return for the new academic year. All back-to-school events will be held on consecutive days Monday, Aug. 17 and Tuesday, Aug. 18. The schedule includes:

•Kindergarten 5 to 6:30 p.m., Aug. 17

•Preschool 4 to 5:30 p.m., Aug. 17.

•Elementary School grades 1-5 from 4 to 6 p.m., Aug. 18.

•Middle School 4 to 6 p.m., Aug. 17.

•High School 4 to 6 p.m., Aug. 17.

Families will have an opportunity to meet teachers and staff, visit classrooms and prepare for the start of school.

Local student completes KY Gov's School

Crittenden County High School student Creea Whitfield recently completed the 2026 Kentucky Governor’s School for the Arts program, studying visual art.

Whitfield was among 275 students from 60 Kentucky counties who participated in the tuition-free program June 7-27 at Northern Kentucky University. It was the first year NKU hosted the three-week program.

Students participated in daily seminars, creative projects, master classes and lectures across 10 artistic disciplines. They also attended a performance of Broadway’s “The Lion King” in Cincinnati.

Since 1987, the Governor’s School for the Arts has provided more than 9,000 rising Kentucky high school juniors and seniors with intensive arts instruction and opportunities to qualify for college scholarships. 

Click Image to Enlarge

Decorated teacher is leaving classroom

MARION, Ky. – Crittenden County Middle School science teacher Neal Bryant is trading chemistry for counseling this year, as he becomes the elementary school’s next counselor when school resumes later next month. 

Bryant, an accomplished educator with teaching experience both at the elementary and middle school levels, said he is excited for a new journey and the opportunity to help students grow socially and emotionally.

“I love encouraging kids, helping them work through challenges, and being another trusted adult in their lives,” said Bryant. “Counseling just feels like the right fit for me.”

Bryant’s goals in his new role include building trust and forging relationships with students and families. 

“I want my office to be a place where kids feel safe, welcome, and excited to visit, not because they’re in trouble, but because they know someone cares about them,” he said. “I also hope to partner closely with teachers and families to help students be successful both in and out of the classroom.”

Known for bringing engaging and exciting lessons to his students, Bryant said he looks forward to infusing the same creativity into his counseling work. 

Bryant is a past winner of Paducah Challenger Center’s Outstanding Educator award, the Linda McDowell Outstanding Educator award, and the Regional Educator Partnership Excellence in Teaching award, among others. Most recently, Bryant has served as a GoTeach Kentucky Ambassador, sharing content expertise, teaching strategies, and engagement techniques with colleagues across the state. 

Bryant also serves as an assistant coach for Crittenden County High School’s boys basketball program. He enjoys running, being outdoors, and spending time with his family in his free time.

A NEW SCHOOL YEAR, SAFER JOURNEYS AHEAD

A back-to-school message from Sen. Jason Howell

As students across Kentucky head back to the classroom, a new school year brings fresh opportunities to learn, grow and prepare for the future. Whether it’s a child’s first day of kindergarten or a student’s final year before graduation, every school year marks a new beginning filled with possibility.

This year is especially meaningful for my family because it marks our youngest child's senior year of high school. With every "last first day," "last football game" and "last school event," we're reminded that this chapter is quickly coming to a close. As parents, we're trying to savor every moment while preparing for the bittersweet transition that comes with watching our child take the next step into adulthood. I know many of you have experienced those same emotions, and my family shares that mix of pride, gratitude, excitement and nostalgia right alongside you.

As excitement builds for the year ahead, it is also a timely reminder that every student’s journey to and from school should be just as safe as the learning that takes place inside the classroom. While families return to their regular routines, it is important for every driver to understand the rules of the road around school buses. With the passage and implementation of House Bill 7, drivers are now required to stop whenever a school or church bus has its signal lights flashing and its stop arm extended on most roadways. This includes highways and four-lane roads with a center turning lane.

Drivers traveling in both directions must stop unless the roadway is divided by an elevated barrier or an unpaved median. A painted centerline or middle turning lane does not create an exception. These requirements help protect students as they enter or exit a bus and may need to cross multiple lanes of traffic.

HB 7 also allows school districts to use stop-arm camera systems to identify motorists who illegally pass stopped buses and strengthens penalties for violations. While these provisions increase accountability,

C-PLAN | Monday NEWScast

 

LISTEN NOW

News | Sports| More

Today we hear from Andrea Clement

about this weekend's fluorspar heritage event

to recognize the 100th anniversary of the

Hudson Mine Rescue

Fredonia Festival is Saturday, Aug. 8

The Fredonia Lions Club’s 61st annual Summer Festival will be held Saturday, Aug. 8 at Buddy Rogers Park in Fredonia. The all-day event begins at 8 a.m. with Little League activities and includes bingo, cake walks, water balloons, a petting zoo, pedal tractor pulls, trophies, a pet show and washer pitching. 

Food will include smoked pork, chicken, burgers, hot dogs, homemade desserts and other festival favorites. 

Live music begins at 5:30 p.m. with the Fort Campbell Band, followed by local talent at 6:30 p.m. Large raffles and hourly cash drawings will be held throughout the day. Admission is free, and proceeds benefit the Fredonia Lions Club’s charitable projects.

Martin completes Washington learning mission

MARION, Ky. – Crittenden County High School student Maeson Martin returned from Washington, D.C., with new friendships, greater confidence and a deeper appreciation for American history and civic engagement after participating in the 2026 Washington Youth Tour.

Martin was among three students sponsored by Kenergy for the weeklong experience coordinated by Kentucky Electric Cooperatives and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. She was joined by Heath Ford of Henderson County High School and Carson Whitsell of Webster County High School.

The students visited Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and George Washington’s Mount Vernon before touring the U.S. Capitol, museums and memorials in Washington. They also heard from U.S. Sen. Rand Paul and congressional staff members during a discussion about artificial intelligence, term limits and Federal Emergency Management Agency reform.

Martin said the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum was the most meaningful stop.

“You can talk about it over and over again in history classes all throughout years of school,” Martin said, “but looking at it through pictures and video, being able to actually walk through one of the cattle cars, it hits you different.”

The tour also included stops at the National Mall, Smithsonian museums, White House Visitor Center, World War I Memorial, National Air and Space Museum and Arlington National Cemetery. At Arlington, students watched the Changing of the Guard, and members of the Kentucky delegation placed a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Kenergy representatives Kristine and Jonathan Carrier served as chaperones.

Lane restrictions in Lake City next week

LAKE CITY, Ky. – A lane restriction is planned Monday, Aug. 3, and Tuesday, Aug. 4, along U.S. 62 between KY 453/Dover Road and KY 952/J.H. O’Bryan Avenue in Livingston County.

Crews will cut brush along guardrails from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The westbound right lane will be restricted Monday, followed by the eastbound right lane Tuesday. Traffic will shift into the left lane.

The northbound KY 453 exit ramp to U.S. 62 also will be blocked for part of Tuesday morning. Work is weather permitting.

School says Jackson is back as coach

 

Less than 24 hours after the school district announced that Crittenden County Rocket basketball coach Kenny Jackson had resigned, school officials issued a news release saying the coach had rescinded his resignation. 

Following is the release issued by the school district today:

Marion, KY—July 30, 2026… Following honest conversations and time for reflection between Coach Jackson, district, and school leadership, Jackson has rescinded his resignation and will continue leading Crittenden County’s high school basketball program. Superintendent Tonya Driver and Coach Jackson acknowledge that emotions were running high when recent decisions were made. Taking a step back created the opportunity for meaningful dialogue, fresh perspective, and a renewed commitment to moving forward together.

"Leadership sometimes means recognizing when it's time to slow down, listen, and reconsider," said Superintendent Driver. "I'm grateful that Coach Jackson, Principal Josh Cook, and I had the opportunity to have open and honest conversations. We share the same goal—to do what's best for our students—and I'm thankful we found a path forward together."

Driver and Jackson agree that the situation has led to the opportunity to demonstrate what healthy leadership and conflict resolution look like, and they are thankful for the chance to show staff, students, parents, and the community how adults can work together to put kids first and make a situation better. 

Coach Jackson added, "My love for Crittenden County, this school system, and certainly, these athletes, runs deep. The support shown by our kids, parents, alumni, colleagues, and community has been incredibly humbling. I’m grateful for the time I spent with Mrs. Driver and Mr. Cook this morning, and for the transparent conversation we have shared. I’m glad to continue to lead this basketball program, and I appreciate the trust and support we have placed in each other going forward.”

The district also recognizes the overwhelming support expressed by the community in regard to the situation. While the circumstances have not been easy, they have served as a powerful reminder of how deeply this community values the people who dedicate themselves to its children. 

“We are all partners in education,” said Driver, “and in shaping students into the kind of contributing citizens we want them to become. It takes all of us working together, working through times of harmony and times of challenges, to model what it means to take responsibility, listen to understand, admit our shortcomings, and move forward with a new perspective.”

Practice continues as scheduled for the boys’ basketball team, with Coach Jackson and assistant coaches Coley Rogers and Neal Bryant at the helm. Workouts start in mid-September. Jackson encourages any high school student interested in joining the program to attend workouts or reach out for more information. 

THURSDAY NEWScast - US Rep. Comer in Marion

 

LISTEN NOW

News | Sports | More

On today's program we head out to

the airport to hear our congressman

Jackson resigns from Rocket basketball

MARION, Ky. – Kenny Jackson has resigned after one season as Crittenden County High School’s boys’ basketball coach, the school district announced Wednesday.

Jackson, a 1993 CCHS graduate and former Rocket basketball player, inherited a program that had finished 0-26 the previous season. Crittenden went 2-29 during his only season as head coach.

Jackson said resigning was not something he particularly wanted to do but that school leaders had placed him in an uncomfortable and potentially untenable position. He said he was told too many players had quit during the past year and that the school would not retain him for another season if more players left the program.

A paraprofessional coach, Jackson had no other employment ties to the district. 

He was the Rockets’ fourth boys’ basketball coach in six seasons. The district has begun searching for his replacement.

“We are looking forward to the future of Rocket basketball,” CCHS Principal Josh Cook said.

The CCHS basketball squad has won just five games over the past three seasons, finishing last in the Second Region each year.

Rep. Comer in Marion today for big announcement

U.S. Rep. James Comer visited Marion today for the formal announcement of $1 million in federal funding for a parallel taxiway at Marion-Crittenden County James C. Johnson Airport. 

The Crittenden Press first reported the funding in February. 

Dozens of dignitaries and individuals were present for the official announcement this week.

Comer said the project will improve airport safety and support regional economic development. A full report will appear in next week’s newspaper.

911 Board hosts special meeting

Marion-Crittenden County 911 Board will meeting in special session at 2 p.m., Thursday at Marion City Hall for an update on the Harris Radio system and grant process. 

Big events remain for annual fair

Click Image to Enlarge

A few big events remain on the schedule for the annual Crittenden County Lions Club Fair.

4-H entries are being accepted and available for viewing in the Lions Club building at the fairgrounds.

On Friday, the late Beverly Herrin will be enshrined in the Ag Hall of Fame; followed by free admission on Family Night featuring activities for kids.

Events conclude Saturday with the demolition derby.

Duncan's Service Center closing for good

MARION, Ky. – Duncan’s Service Center, located on the northwest corner of Main and Gum streets in Marion, will permanently close Thursday after six years in business.

The business announced the closure Tuesday in a social media post, thanking customers for their support.

“After six years of serving our community, Duncan’s Service Center will be closing its doors July 30. Thank you to our customers for all the dedication and allowing us to serve you and this community. Thank you!”

No reason for the closure was provided in the post. See the post here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1BU1aiRmBw/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Lyon County Sheriff's Weekly Report

 

On Saturday, July 18, 2026, around 6:30 p.m., Deputy Bobby Beeler was dispatched to a theft complaint in the Confederate community. His investigation revealed a property owner had come to his property on July 18 and determined a building had been burglarized and multiple vehicles had been stolen. A Harley-Davidson motorcycle, a Kawasaki motorcycle, a go-kart and a Procraft bass boat, in addition to other personal property items, were stolen in the burglary. The value of the theft exceeds $33,000. If anyone has information about this burglary and theft, they are asked to contact the sheriff’s office at 270-388-2311 or 270-388-0911.

On Sunday, July 19, 2026, just before 8 p.m., an off-duty Lyon County sheriff’s deputy observed a suspicious male wearing a backpack near a closed business in Kuttawa. The deputy contacted Sheriff Brent White, who dispatched Deputy Bobby Beeler and a Kentucky State Police trooper to the area. They located Cameron M. Mortensen (34) of Waukegan, Ill., at the closed business. After confirming with the business’s owner that he did not know Mortensen and that Mortensen did not have permission to be on the property, Deputy Beeler arrested him. During the investigation, it was determined that Mortensen had also shoplifted items at Huck’s Travel Center. Mortensen was charged with third-degree criminal trespassing and theft by unlawful taking-shoplifting. He was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

On Monday, July 20, 2026, just before 5 p.m., Deputy Bobby Beeler was dispatched to a two-vehicle collision on KY 293. His investigation revealed a 2000 Ford Explorer, driven by Linda F. Barnhart (79) of Eddyville, was backing out of a private lot onto KY 293 when she collided with the passenger side of a

Dance academy to offer classes in Marion

Click Image to Enlarge

A Paducah-based dance studio is bringing classes to Marion.

Beginning this fall, Center Stage Dance Academy and owner Lisa Hill will be offering classes on Thursdays at Fohs Hall. Several types of dance will be taught to multiple ages and ability levels. 

See the business' Facebook page for online registration, or make plans to register in person Aug. 2 at Fohs Hall.

Cooling center established at former armory

MARION, Ky. – The former National Guard Armory will serve as a cooling center Monday, July 27, and Tuesday, July 28, as dangerous heat continues across the region.

The cooling center will be available during daytime and early evening hours but will not remain open overnight. Residents who need relief from the heat are encouraged to use the facility.

The center can be accessed by calling dispatch at 270-965-3500 as you can see in the attached letter of notice.

The National Weather Service in Paducah said heat index values could reach 105 to 115 degrees through Tuesday afternoon, with Monday expected to be the hottest day. Residents should limit strenuous outdoor activity, drink plenty of water and check on older adults and others vulnerable to extreme heat.

More than 1,000 without power in county

Kenergy Outage Center
 http://stormcenter.kenergycorp.com

MARION, Ky. – Many area residents remain without electricity this morning after a storm raced across the region around dusk Sunday.

The storm followed an unusual north-to-south path, leaving downed trees, flooded roadways and widespread power outages. Kenergy’s outage map showed hundreds of homes and businesses without electricity this morning, including more than 1,000 customers in northern Crittenden County. Outages stretched from Henderson south to Princeton and Eddyville.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said KY 902, which was closed because of high water near the Crittenden-Caldwell county line this morning, is now clear.

Red Cross declares national blood crisis

FIND OUT HOW AND WHERE YOU CAN HELP

The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis for only the second time in its history as donations have fallen to a four-year summer low.

All blood types are needed, but the shortage is particularly severe for type O blood. The supply of type O positive blood has fallen below one day, prompting the Red Cross to limit distributions to hospitals.

Appointments may be scheduled through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 800-733-2767. Donors who give through July 31 will receive a Fandango movie ticket by email, valued at up to $15. Those who donate Aug. 1-31 will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email.

Upcoming donation opportunities include:

• July 27: First United Methodist Church, 210 S. Washington St., Clinton, noon-5 p.m.
• July 27: Trace Creek Baptist Church, 3577 Ky. 131, Mayfield, 1-6 p.m.
• July 28: Vanzora Baptist Church, 1981 Vanzora Road, Benton, 1-6 p.m.
• July 28: Washington Street Baptist Church, 721 Washington St., Paducah, 12:30-5:30 p.m.
• July 29: Jackson Purchase Medical Center, 1099 Medical Drive, Mayfield, 7 a.m.-noon.
• July 29: The FOR Center, 2314 Brinn Road, Murray, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
• July 30: Altona Baptist Church, 5827 U.S. 62, Calvert City, 1-6 p.m.
• July 30: Morgantown Mission, 109 S. Main St., Morgantown, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
• July 31: Elkton Baptist Church, 301 E. Main St., Elkton, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Aug. 3: First Baptist Church, 307 Massac Creek Road, Metropolis, Illinois, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Aug. 3: First Christian Church, 415 Audubon Drive, Paducah, 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
• Aug. 4: St. Stephen Catholic Church, 1698 Canton Road, Cadiz, noon-5 p.m.
• Aug. 5: Livingston Hospital Foundation Community Building, 131 Hospital Drive, Salem, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Aug. 6: Calvary Baptist Church, 121 Kentucky Ave., Princeton, noon-6 p.m.
• Aug. 6: Rest Church, 1200 Jefferson St., Paducah, noon-5 p.m.
• Aug. 7: Murray Masonic Lodge No. 105, 2036 Ky. 121, Murray, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Aug. 9: St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 5645 Blandville Road, Paducah, 8 a.m.-noon.
• Aug. 10: First Baptist Church, 127 E. Jefferson St., Golconda, Illinois, 12:30-5:30 p.m.
• Aug. 10: First Christian Church, 2515 S. Main St., Benton, 1-6 p.m.
• Aug. 13: Jackson Purchase Medical Center, 1099 Medical Drive, Mayfield, 7 a.m.-noon.
• Aug. 13: St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1620 W. Main St., Murray, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Aug. 14: Sedalia Baptist Church gym, 5572 Ky. 97, Sedalia, noon-5 p.m.

The Paducah Blood Donation Center, 4635 Falconcrest Drive, will also accept donations on multiple dates through Aug. 14. Appointments and available times can be found at RedCrossBlood.org.