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Anyone with interest in the cemeteries' upkeep is encouraged to attend or consider sending donations that will help with mowing and maintenance costs.
Thursday, March 12, 2026
Pleasant Hill, Paris cemetery meeting March 24
Anyone with interest in the cemeteries' upkeep is encouraged to attend or consider sending donations that will help with mowing and maintenance costs.
Tuesday, March 10, 2026
Get $20,000 grant to help buy a home
First United Bank and Trust Company announced it will participate in the “Welcome Home” grant program through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati, which provides qualifying homebuyers with grants of up to $20,000 to assist with the purchase of a new home.
The program, which opens April 6, is designed to help low- and moderate-income buyers cover expenses such as down payments and closing costs. Funds are distributed through participating local lenders and are available on a first-come, first-served basis until the grant pool is exhausted.
Local mortgage lender Charlie Day at First United Bank and Trust in Marion is assisting applicants interested in the program.
The Welcome Home program is funded through the Federal Home Loan Bank of Cincinnati, which provides grants each year to support homeownership opportunities in communities served by its member financial institutions.
Bank officials note that grant funds are limited and only available to qualified buyers who meet program guidelines. Interested residents can contact First United Bank and Trust in Marion for additional details before the program opens.
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Legislative Digest | General Assembly News
The most significant development was the introduction of House Bill 757, a sweeping revenue measure spanning nearly 300 pages. The complex bill was filed Monday and is already scheduled for a committee hearing Tuesday, raising concerns among some observers about the speed at which lawmakers will be asked to review such a lengthy proposal.
Lawmakers also met during a session of the Medicaid Oversight Board, where members discussed several Medicaid-related bills, including House Bill 2. During that discussion, legislators agreed to modify the proposal by lowering the unemployment rate threshold counties must meet to qualify for a waiver. The change aligns the requirement with federal guidelines, which are lower than the previously proposed 10 percent rate. The implementation timeline for the bill was also pushed back from July 1 of this year to January 1 of next year.
Meanwhile, the General Assembly voted to override Gov. Andy Beshear’s veto of House Bill 314, legislation that reorganizes the Kentucky Communications Network Authority. The override passed the House 78-19, with all Democrats voting against the move.
Several other measures also cleared the House Monday, including HB 227, which seeks to protect minors from addictive online platforms; HB 667, which exempts solid waste companies from open records laws even when they contract with government entities; HB 669, directing the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to determine whether children in its care qualify for federal benefits; HB 677, related to geologic carbon dioxide sequestration; HB 685, creating five-year teaching certificates; HB 713, addressing
Monday, March 9, 2026
FERRY CLOSING EARLY TODAY
According to the ferry operator, service will run from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The final departure from the Illinois side will be at 5:40 p.m., and the final departure from the Kentucky side will be at 5:50 p.m.
Normal operating hours will resume Tuesday, March 10.
On the Legislative front this week
Beshear vetoed House Bill 314, which would shift oversight of the authority from the governor’s office to the Commonwealth Office of Technology. In his veto message, Beshear argued the measure would improperly remove powers granted to the governor under the state constitution. He also said the authority is currently working to hold a vendor accountable for fulfilling its contract, and warned that restructuring the agency could allow the vendor to avoid responsibility.
Several other measures advanced in the legislature Friday.
The House approved HB 67, clarifying rules governing communication between school personnel and students. Lawmakers said the bill is intended to prevent inappropriate private communications that could lead to grooming while allowing legitimate communication between educators and students.
In the Senate, lawmakers passed SB 8, which creates new types of districts intended to encourage housing development. The measure passed with mostly Republican support, with five Democrats voting against it.
The Senate also approved SB 11, creating a Residential Safe Room Rebate Program designed to help homeowners build storm shelters to protect against tornadoes. Other measures passing the Senate included SB 94 regarding dealer warranty work requirements, SB 197 establishing a tiered county system for economic development incentives, SB 245 related to tobacco and vapor product licensure, and SJR 54, which directs exploration of ways to increase enrollment in Dolly Parton’s Imagination
Lyon County Sheriff's Report
Deputy Josh Travis responded about 5:47 p.m. Tuesday, March 3, to a two-vehicle collision in Suwanee at the intersection of U.S. 62 West and KY 810 South. Investigation showed a 2013 Ford Edge driven by Maryline F. Mead, 77, of Kuttawa, was stopped in traffic waiting to turn from U.S. 62 onto KY 810 South. A 2000 Freightliner driven by Leyva R. Oniel, 45, of Louisville, was traveling west on U.S. 62 and overtaking the Mead vehicle. Authorities said Oniel was inattentive and did not realize the Mead vehicle was stopped. As he approached the rear of the vehicle, he swerved left in an attempt to avoid a collision; however, the passenger side of his semi-trailer struck the Mead vehicle, forcing it into a guardrail. No injuries were reported. The Eddyville Police Department, Kuttawa Fire Department and Lyon County EMS assisted at the scene.
Around 8 a.m. Wednesday, March 4, Chief Deputy Sam Adams served a criminal complaint and court summons on Colby W. Cubbedge, 26, of West Paducah, charging him with theft by deception (including cold checks) $1,000 to less than $10,000. Cubbedge is scheduled to appear in Caldwell District Court on March 16 to answer to the charge.
Deputy Shannon Oliver responded about 7:17 p.m. Thursday, March 5, to a single-vehicle crash on KY 818 North near Dulaney Road. Authorities said Christopher C. Pierce, 17, of Eddyville, was traveling north on KY 818 when a deer entered the roadway. Pierce swerved to avoid the animal but lost control of the vehicle, which left the roadway, traveled up a steep embankment and overturned. Pierce refused
Thursday is next candidate forum
The next speaking event for candidates will be at Mattoon at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, March 12.
Going forward, forums are planned at Tolu on April 18 at 2 p.m., and at Marion’s Fohs Hall on May 9 at 5:30 p.m.
The accompanying image includes a photo of an old Crittenden County ballot box that once served this community during elections when paper ballots were more common.
Sunday, March 8, 2026
Lady Rocket record-setting season ends
MORTON'S GAP, Ky. – Henderson County captured its 20th Second Region championship in the past 22 years Saturday night, defeating Crittenden County 42-39 in the title game.
The Lady Rockets reached the regional final for the third time in the past four seasons but again ran into the long-dominant Lady Colonels program.
Three Crittenden players were named to the All-Region Tournament Team: Anna Boone, Elliot Evans and Jordyn Hodge. Senior center Bristyn Rushing also had an outstanding tournament and turned in one of her best stretches of play of the season, particularly in the semifinal victory over Caldwell County.
The game marked the final outing for a senior class that helped lift Crittenden to the winningest season in program history, with some of those players having been part of the varsity lineup since their eighth-grade year. Read More.
Saturday, March 7, 2026
Lady Rockets back in regional title game
This will be an unprecedented second straight appearance for Crittenden County's girls in the regional championship game, and their third in four years.
Henderson County, a school with roughly four times the enrollment of Crittenden County, has long ruled the Second Region. The Lady Colonels have won 19 of the last 21 regional championships, including the past seven in a row.
Twice in the last three seasons Henderson has ended Crittenden’s run in the title game. The Lady Colonels defeated the Lady Rockets 71-53 in the 2023 regional championship when Crittenden’s current senior players were freshmen, then followed with a 66-31 win in last year’s title game. Henderson also beat Crittenden 72-44 in the opening round of the 2024 regional tournament when this senior group was sophomores.
Read more HERE.
Interdenominational Good Friday Event in Marion
LeNeave said the idea is inspired by a similar event held in Marion years ago during the Easter season. Under the concept being developed, representatives from various local churches would take turns carrying a wooden cross along Main Street in a relay-style procession leading up to the service.
This year Good Friday falls on April 3, with Easter Sunday on April 5.
Following the procession, LeNeave envisions a short community worship service at noon at Marion First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, followed by a light lunch in the church’s fellowship hall.
The church is just a block from Main Street, and the pastor said it would be a convenient location.
LeNeave said he hopes other congregations will participate in this interdenominational initiative. Churches interested in participating or seeking more information may contact LeNeave at 731-414-8232.
Friday, March 6, 2026
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE | Sen. Jason Howell
Kentucky State Senator
As the Kentucky General Assembly enters the ninth week of the 2026 Legislative Session, our work in Frankfort continues to move forward at a steady pace. With only a few weeks remaining in the 60-day session, much of our focus is on advancing legislation through the process while continuing discussions on the state budget.
Passing a balanced two-year budget is one of the most important responsibilities the General Assembly has during even-numbered years. Budget discussions are ongoing as lawmakers review spending priorities, agency requests and the commonwealth’s long-term fiscal outlook. The House of Representatives has advanced its initial proposal, and the Senate will carefully review and amend the plan. As conversations continue, my focus remains on ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly while maintaining the core services Kentucky families rely on.
Earlier this session, the Senate Majority Caucus identified 10 priority pieces of legislation aimed at addressing some of the most pressing issues facing our commonwealth. I’m pleased to report that all 10 Senate priority bills have now been filed. Several have already passed the Senate and are now being considered by the House of Representatives, while others continue advancing through committee hearings.
These measures address a range of issues, including education, economic development, and regulatory reform. Many of these proposals were developed during the interim months through conversations with constituents, local leaders and stakeholders across Kentucky.
Several bills have passed the Senate this week including one I sponsored. Senate Bill (SB) 199 which approves a pesticide label by the U.S. EPA to be used as a warning label under Kentucky law for state duty-to-warn claims. It effectively aligns Kentucky law with EPA standards while preserving liability from manufacturers.
SB 8, a priority bill, modernizes Kentucky’s Public Service Commission to improve oversight and expertise in regulating utilities. It increases the commission from three to five members, sets qualifications, requires political balance and formalizes it as an independent state agency. The law ensures the PSC is an independent entity that will receive administrative support from the state auditor's office. It also clarifies rules for reviewing electric projects, and sets standards related to those who may intervene in a case while maintaining organizations ability to bring concerns before the commission.
SB 11 creates a rebate program to help homeowners build FEMA-compliant storm shelters that are open to neighbors during emergencies. The program covers up to $5,000 or 50 percent of construction costs and prioritizes community safety by requiring shelters to be listed for public use during severe weather. The program will be supported through gifts and grants, not state funds.
SB 34 allows Kentuckians to transfer a home or vehicle directly to a named beneficiary at death without going through probate. Like naming a beneficiary on a bank account, the owner keeps full control during life and may change or revoke the designation at any time. Ownership transfers only at death, and existing
Staci has some advice this week
This week in The Crittenden Press, Staci Blackburn’s Staci Style column offers a humorous and honest look at getting older.
In “Just Wait: When Gravity Renegotiates, and Confidence Gets Louder,” Blackburn reflects on the surprises of aging, the lessons that come with experience, and the confidence that eventually replaces self-doubt.
It’s a relatable read for women of every generation. Find it in this week’s edition of The Crittenden Press.
SUBSCRIBE to our digital version right now and $AVE! Get signed up and as soon as your subscription is processed, we will email this week's edition to you! It's that simple. 52 Weeks for just $32.
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Blackburn Church Rd closed for water damage
Judge-Executive Perry A. Newcom announced that Blackburn Church Road is closed from the bridge at mile point 5.0 to the old Blackburn Church at mile point 5.75 due to flooding and resulting roadway damage.
County road crews will assess the extent of the damage once water levels recede. An inspection is planned for Friday, March 6 with hopes that repairs can be made and the road reopened if conditions allow.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes until the roadway can be safely reopened.
Top Voice 270 competition Saturday at Fohs
After two nights of auditions last month at Fohs Hall, organizers announced the 10 finalists who will compete in a live vocal showdown for a $500 grand prize.
Adriel Barnes of Burna, Autumn Dunaway of Wickliffe, Cade Crider of Marion, Dominic Rorer of Paducah, Karen Harris of Marion, Lacie Duncan of Marion, Rachel Pears of Marion, Rebecca DeMoss of Salem, Sean Markwell of Marion and Tammy Heady of Marion will compete in the upcoming Top Voice 270 live competition.
The event begins at 7 p.m. at Fohs Hall. Tickets will be available at the door for $5 per person.
Organizers describe the evening as a high-energy celebration of local talent. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Community Arts Foundation’s Student Support Fund, which helps expand access to arts opportunities for area students.
THRUSDAY | Local NewsCast
News | Sports | More
Rebecca Woodall, local chamber president,
visits this morning to talk about the upcoming
spring home and garden show
State analysis finds that jail is understaffed
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| The detention center's monthly reports are published the last week of every month in The Crittenden Press full edition. |
A recent staffing analysis presented to Crittenden Fiscal Court shows the Crittenden County Detention Center is operating well below the minimum number of full-time employees recommended by the state.
Jailer Athena Hayes told magistrates at last week’s fiscal court meeting that the requested staffing study verifies “what the state says we need to safely and securely operate the facility.” The analysis, conducted through the Kentucky Department of Corrections using a National Institute of Corrections model, outlines minimum staffing levels necessary to meet regulatory and operational standards
According to the report, the detention center would require 44 full-time employees to meet the recommended minimum, a figure that does not include the elected jailer, canteen operations or certain outsourced services
Currently, the jail operates with 33 staff members, Hayes said.
Hayes noted that recent budget pressures led to some staffing reductions in an effort to cut payroll and insurance costs. However, those reductions have placed the facility below the level recommended to safely operate.
The Department of Corrections’ advisory letter stresses that correctional facilities require sufficient staffing to maintain safety for the public, employees and inmates, and warns that operating below recommended levels could jeopardize that priority.
Magistrates asked whether the state would mandate additional hires. Hayes said the state does not directly force counties to hire more staff but cautioned that operating below recommended levels could expose the county to liability, particularly if litigation arises and the county is aware it is below the suggested minimum.
The staffing model is based on facility capacity rather than current inmate population. While jail populations across Kentucky are currently down, Hayes said the recommended staffing level is tied to the jail’s design and capacity for holding inmates.
No formal action was taken by fiscal court, and there was no further discussion on how the county might address the staffing gap.
After the meeting, Judge-Executive Perry Newcom said the analysis amounts to guidance and that it would be taken into consideration next month when budget talks begin on planning for the upcoming Fiscal Year 2026-27.
Wednesday, March 4, 2026
CCES Honor Roll Announced
Here is Crittenden County Elementary School’s honor roll for the previous 9 weeks grading period.
SECOND GRADE
Teacher Cappello
All As:
Lincoln Martin
As and Bs:
Cynthia Brown
Beau Byford
Harper Cox
Phoenix Ford
Sebastian Gutierrez
Brailee Harris
Zephan Ottosen
Mia Overfield
Matthew Payne
Alieah Rowley
Caleb Stiles
Paisley Witherspoon
Diesel Wood
Brodie Wright
Teacher B.Guess
All As:
Henley Zimmer
Jameson Watson
Boomer Snyder
Jolea Sigler
Amaryllis Shewcraft
Harrison Schultz
Crittenden Sheriff's Monthly Report
Head reported deputies investigated seven vehicle collisions during the month while responding to 45 calls for service. Officers served 52 legal papers and made 91 total service attempts. Deputies also assisted motorists 13 times and conducted 28 building checks.
Enforcement activity included 12 criminal citations, eight misdemeanor arrests and five felony arrests. Deputies also opened five new cases and completed 15 follow-up investigations.
Other activity included 63 special details, 129 instances of general policing and 36 vehicle inspections. Deputies issued seven verbal warnings but no DUIs or courtesy warnings during the reporting period.
The sheriff’s department reported a total of 966 manhours worked during the month, including 155.25 hours providing bailiff services for court. Officers also logged 297 hours of training.
Sheriff Head’s detailed monthly activity report is published regularly in the full edition of The Crittenden Press.
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