Monday, May 31, 2021

Rockets fall by 1 in district title game

Crittenden County lost 9-8 to Lyon County in Monday's championship game of the Fifth District Tournament at Eddyville. The Rockets beat Trigg County 6-1 in the semifinal round. Crittenden will advance to the regional tournament on Saturday at University Heights in Hopkinsville. 

The Lady Rocket softball team lost a heart-breaker 1-0 in 10 innings to Livingston Central in the Fifth District semifinals at Eddyville, eliminating CCHS from further post-season play. 

Baseball, softball at district tournament today

The Lady Rockets will play Livingston Central at 1pm today in the opening round of the Fifth District Softball Tournament. Lyon and Trigg play at 11am. Championship game is at 3pm. All games are at Eddyville.

There are some late changes to the Fifth District Baseball Tournament due to rain that is anticipated to move into the area tomorrow. Today's updated tournament schedule at Eddyville is as follows: 

BASEBALL NEW SCHEDULE
3pm Lyon vs Livingston
5pm Crittenden vs Trigg
7pm Championship

For Tickets to today's softball or baseball tournaments, GO HERE

I-24 resurfacing begins on Tuesday, June 1

A contractor for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) plans to ramp up preparations for a project to replace or repair concrete along the westbound lanes of Interstate 24 in Kentucky starting tomorrow.

The work zone runs from the 69 to 51 mile markers through parts of Trigg, Caldwell and Lyon counties. Eastbound lanes will carry 2-way traffic while 10 miles of the westbound side is closed for reconstruction.

Construction barrels will be used to establish lane restrictions until installation starts on a centerline barrier wall about June 7. When installation begins, eastbound traffic will be restricted to one lane.  Once the barrier wall is in place, the contractor will set a date for westbound traffic to be shifted to one lane.

KYTC District 1 Chief Engineer Kyle Poat says eastbound I-24 traffic will be restricted to one lane with the lane restriction lengthening as the barrier wall installation progresses over several weeks.

“Some of our commuters will recall that last year the work zone included some pretty restricted driving,”

Sunday, May 30, 2021

Memorial Weekend activities in county

A ceremony Saturday at Blackford Veterans Memorial and Walk of Honor drew more than three dozen
to celebrate America's fallen heroes. 

On Monday, there will be a 10am service at Mapleview Cemetery at the Veterans Memorial and there was one this morning at Burna's American Legion. Cave In Rock is hosting a 2pm Memorial Day ceremony.

A group of early American re-enactors performed at the Blackford ceremony where Circuit Judge Rene Williams gave the keynote address. 

"It was one of the best Memorial Day speeches I have ever heard," said Crittenden County Judge-Executive Perry Newcom. 

Ag Hall of Fame looking for first inductee

The establishment of a local agricultural hall of fame will honor the legacies of Crittenden County farmers and individuals with lasting impacts on the farming industry.

Nominations are for this inaugural year's selection are due by July 1.

Nominees should have a long tenure in agriculture, preferably over 20 years and have a solid connection to the county.

Dee Heimengartner, Crittenden County Extension Agent for Agriculture & Natural Resources, said the Crittenden County Agriculture Leadership Hall of Fame was developed by Crittenden County Extension agents, Lions Club members and volunteers.  Area counties have similar programs, such as Farmer of the Year, which Crittenden’s Hall of Fame models.

The 2021 recipient will be named during the Crittenden County Fair Breakfast Aug. 6. Nomination forms can be obtained from and submitted to the Crittenden County Extension office.

Recognition may be given to current or retired members of the agriculture community or posthumously.

Selection will be made by the Crittenden County Agriculture Leadership Hall of Fame committee.

Call today to book Fohs Hall for your event

Click Image to Enlarge

Fohs Hall in Marion is the ideal venue for your next event. 

Whether it is a small celebration, anniversary party or corporate meeting, Fohs Hall is an historic setting with plenty of room to accommodate your needs.

The former school is the site of community events such as concerts, plays and special performances by school groups. It is also available for private events.

To learn more about space availability, contact Elliot West.

New amenities added at Riverview Park

Some new amenities have been installed at Riverview Park on the Ohio River in rural Crittenden County.

New grills and picnic tables have been added just in time for the summer camping season.

There are seven modern campsites available with power, water and sewer. At this time, reservations are not taken; however, there is some discussion about moving toward digital payments and advanced reservations. 

For now, campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers should be on site and call 270-965-5015 for a combination that will unlock power pods and water hydrants. 

Cost is $20 per day and that fee can be left in the dropbox on site.

Because demand for sites is growing, campground managers are planning to launch an online system to take reservations and accept credit card payments in advance.

Saturday, May 29, 2021

Shred Day is Saturday, June 5

Click Image to Enlarge
Have unwanted documents you want to rid of securely?

Farmers Bank welcomes you to visit the mobile shred truck between 
9 a.m.-noon, June 5.

The best way to avoid identity theft is to shred personal documents.

Up to 100 pounds of paper per individual or business will be accepted 
during this annual event hosted by Farmers Bank.

he event will be held rain or shine on Carlisle Street between the Farmers 
Bank and the Crittenden County Courthouse.


Rocket Youth Football Camp this month


The annual Rocket Youth Football Camp will be held June 22-24 on campus. 

Instruction is by CCHS head coach Gaige Courtney, his coaching staff and both current and former Rocket players. 

The registration form is included in this post. It should be completed and brought to the first day of camp, starting at 8:30 a.m. 

Friday, May 28, 2021

Crittenden graduates 88 at commencement


Crittenden County High School held commencement services for 88 graduates in the Class of 2021 on Friday amid some sprinkles on the football field at Rocket Stadium.

Due to pandemic precautions, there was no Project Graduation event following the ceremony.


Graduation set for tonight at Rocket Stadium


Update: Despite overcast skies and a small threat of rain, school officials are continuing with their original plan to hold graduation festivities on the football field at Rocket Stadium tonight. 

Crittenden County High School’s Class of 2021 graduation ceremony is scheduled for 6 p.m., tonight (Friday, May 28) at Rocket Stadium. 

There is no limit on the number of attendees per graduate; however, no one will be allowed into the football stadium once the established capacity of 1,200 is reached. 

In the event of rain, commencement could be postponed one hour, or if further delayed, until 1 p.m., on Saturday, May 29 at the football field. In case of greater weather issues, graduation will be moved to 6 p.m., Saturday at the football field, or inside Rocket Arena with a smaller capacity.


Memorial Day Weekend ceremonies in area

There will be four area Memorial Day Weekend ceremonies, including the traditional Memorial Day event at 10 a.m., at Marion’s Mapleview Cemetery. 

There will be a ceremony at Blackford Walk of Honor and Veterans Memorial at 10 a.m., Saturday with Circuit Judge Rene Williams as keynote speaker. 

Burna American Legion will host its annual ceremony at 8 a.m., at the Legion Memorial. The Legion’s Women’s Auxiliary will provide fruits, doughnuts and drinks for refreshments. Retired Col. David Coleman of Paducah will be the keynote speaker at Burna, and also at Mapleview on Monday. 

Across the Ohio River there will be a 2 p.m., dedication of the Veterans’ Memorial on Canal Street, two blocks from the Cave In Rock Ferry. Rolling Thunder, an organization that brings awareness to POW/MIA causes, will be there along with the VFW and American Legion.

Clerk online portal available for transactions

Click Image to Enlarge
The Crittenden County Clerk's Office will be closed Monday in observance of Memorial Day.

However, if you want to pay taxes or renew registration, a new online portal is available.

Visit Crittenden.clerkinfo.net and click on the red button, where you'll be directed to the registration portal.

Transactions will be mailed to you the following business day.


Thursday, May 27, 2021

Livingston hires grad for new superintendent

Livingston County School District on Wednesday named a LCHS graduate as its next school superintendent. 

David Meinschein, who graduated from Livingston Central in 1989 and has been serving as an administrator in the Ballard County School District, was chosen by the Livingston Board of Education to lead the district beginning July 1.

Meinschein will replace Victor Zimmerman, who resigned in February. Darryl Chittenden has been serving as interim superintendent since that time and will continue in that capacity until Meinschein takes over.

Meinschein posted the following Tweet on his Twitter page last night, "I am proud to come full circle and become the Livingston County School Superintendent. I look forward to serving our students, faculty and community!"

Talk to Grant Rogers about life insurance coverage

Click Image to Enlarge
Do you have life insurance? Are you preparing for your family's future? 

You may not realize that you can secure $100,000 in life insurance coverage for as little as $17.24 a month.

Grant Rogers, a WoodmenLife Financial Representative, can give you all the details.

Rogers has an office in Marion and serves the area with multiple WoodmenLife products.

Call today to discuss financial planning (270) 965-3333.

Wednesday, May 26, 2021

Lions Club building available for rentals

Click Image to Enlarge
A newly constructed building at the Lions Club Fairgrounds in Marion is available for a variety of rentals.

The building has hosted community dinners, parties, meetings, pageants and wedding receptions since it was constructed, and is available for rent for those and other purposes.

The building contains a spacious commercial kitchen.

If you are planning a special event this year, consider the Lions Club building. Rates vary. 

For more information, contact Natalie Parish. 

Livingston to name new superintendent tonight

Livingston County Board of Education will meet in special session at 6pm tonight at South Livingston Elementary School. On the agenda selection of a new school superintendent and approval of the new superintendent’s contract.

Darryl Chittenden has been serving as interim superintendent since the resignation of former superintendent Victor Zimmerman in February.

The school board meeting is open to the public, but capacity is limited due to pandemic protocol. Instructions on viewing it online can be found HERE.

Tuesday, May 25, 2021

Pool passes available beginning Tuesday night

Click Image to Enlarge
Marion's pool opens this weekend!

Marion Golf & Pool will open its pool for the season Sunday. Season passes are now available.

Get your pass Tuesday, May 25 from 6-7 p.m. or Saturday, May 29 from 10 a.m.-noon.

Passes are $300 for families and $150 for individuals for unlimited use of the pool.

Public days will be held beginning June 7. Pool parties are being booked, so call now to reserve your party time!

Liberty Fuels seeking propane delivery driver

Click Image to Enlarge
Are you looking for a new job? Have a CDL?

Liberty Fuels, Inc., in Marion is hiring a CDL truck driver to deliver propane.

Liberty Fuels offers paid holidays and additional benefits. Wages dependent on experience.

Apply in Marion at Liberty Fuels, 825 S. Main St.

Monday, May 24, 2021

Like many, Myatt is from a generational farm family

It's Beef Month and The Crittenden Press recently published an article celebrating a local farmer. 

Kyle Myatt checks his herd.
You can still get a copy of the newspaper at our office or see it online with an electronic subscription to the full version.

Here are some Kentucky cattle figures:

• More than 38,000 farms raise cattle in Kentucky

• 51% of farms raise cattle in Kentucky

• Total inventory, cattle and calves, January 1, 2021 – 2,090,000 head

• 14th in U.S. in head of cattle and calves

• Beef cows – 983,000 head; 8th in U.S.

• #1 beef cow inventory east of the Mississippi River

• 2020 production:  667,595,000 pounds

• 2020 Value of Production:  $ 701,113,000

• 2020 Cash Receipts:  $ 727,564,000

• 2020 Gross Income:  $739,386,000


Saturday, May 22, 2021

Coming to Marion Farmers Market this summer

Farmers Market Days will be coordinated by the Crittenden County Extension Service the first Saturday of the month June through September at the Imogene Stout Market on Main.

Located on Main Street in Marion, the market is named after the late Imogene Stout who lived across the street from the lot which was a service station for many years.

Vendor space will be available June 5, July 3, Aug. 7 and Sept. 4. Dee Heimgartner, Crittenden County Agriculture Agent, said vendors must meet Kentucky Department of Ag and Health Department guidelines outlined in the Farmers’ Market Manual and Resource Guide which can be found online. Heimgartner can be reached at (270) 965-5015 for more information.

Farmers Market Days will be open 9 am.-noon with pavilion space reserved for home-town products. Spaces will be marked and available on a first come, first served basis with no reservations available.

Friday, May 21, 2021

Farmers welcomes Brent Bugg

Click Image to Enlarge
The Farmers Bank & Trust Co. welcomes Brent Bugg.

Bugg, most recently president of Fredonia Valley Bank, joins the Farmers Bank & Trust Co. as a business development specialist.

In his new position, Bugg will take community banking on the road, 
likely meeting customers wherever they deem most convenient. 

For the past 25 years, Bugg was employed by Fredonia Valley Bank. 
He resides in Fredonia with his wife Chris.

Graduation next Friday night at stadium

One week from today, up to 1,200 spectators will be able to attend the 2021 Crittenden County High School graduation on Friday, May 28. 

It starts at 6 p.m., on the Rocket football field. There is no limit to the number of attendees per graduate; however, no one will be allowed into the facility once capacity is reached. 

In the event of rain, commencement will be postponed until Saturday, May 29. 

Four tickets per graduate will be provided for Class Night on Thursday night, May 27 due to pandemic capacity restrictions.

Thursday, May 20, 2021

Traffic accident damages downtown light


A traffic accident late last night has left some damage on Main Street.

The decorative light pole on the southwest corner of Main and Carlisle was damaged.

There were no charges as a result of the accident. 

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

KY 91 blocked going toward Ferry

UPDATE: Site is open.

ORIGINAL POST: State Route 91 North continues to be blocked by a tractor-trailer crash near the 12 mile marker in northern Crittenden County.

The crash is just south of the Fords Ferry Road intersection and it happened before 3pm today.  Both lanes are blocked at this time. 

No one was seriously injured and it involved only the tractor-trailer.

The load of liquid nitrogen has been pumped off without incident.  A recovery crew is on site to upright the truck.

The highway is expected to be blocked until about 9pm.

This blockage impacts access to and from the Cave-in-Rock Ferry along KY 91.  The suggested detour is via U.S. 60 to KY 1668/Crittenden Springs Road to KY 135 to return to KY 91 North of the crash site.


No "do-over" years for Crittenden students

Crittenden County Board of Education unanimously denied applications for so-called "do-over" years by a half dozen students. The decision was made at Tuesday night's school board meeting. 

The Kentucky General Assembly recently gave local school boards the option of accepting all – or taking no – applications for students requesting to retake the previous school year, which would also have given them an extra year of athletic eligibility. Based on the way legislation was written, applications could not be considered on individual merit. School districts had to either accept all or completely deny the option as a whole.

School Supt. Vince Clark said in a podcast interview with The Press earlier this spring that there are other options for students to be held back for academic reasons, and those will remain available. 

All six applicants have been student-athletes during their high school careers. The applicants ranged from 10th to 12th graders. 

Livingston looking for suspect


Livingston County Sheriff Bobby Davidson is requesting the public's assistance in identifying the owner of this truck and the occupant in the accompanying photograph.  

The vehicle and its occupant were observed at approximately 11:37pm on Sunday, May 16, 2021 on the property of Pine Bluff Materials in Ledbetter.  

Items were stolen from a vehicle on the Pine Bluff property that night.  If you recognize this vehicle and/or the occupant, contact the Livingston County Sheriff at (270) 928-2122.

Rocket Youth Football Camp


 

Morganfield academy hiring various positions

Click Image to Enlarge
Looking for a job with a nice benefits package? Check out the opportunities at the Earle C. Clements Job Corps Center in Morganfield.

The academy offers competitive salaries, benefits and advancement opportunities for full- or part-time and substitute positions.

Apply only at mtcjobs.com.

Monday, May 17, 2021

Bluegrass Farm has home and farm supplies

Click Image to Enlarge
Good deals on hardware, boots, tools and feed of all kinds can be found at Bluegrass Farm Supply.

Located in the heart of the Crittenden County Amish community, Bluegrass Farm Supply has everything you need for a project at home or on the farm.

Custom feed mixes for a variety of feeding purposes are available at Bluegrass Farm Supply, located on Mt. Zion Cemetery Rd., about 3 miles from U.S. 60 at Mattoon.

Stop by and shop Monday through Saturday.

Blackford Church Road closed temporarily

UPDATE: Road will be back open shortly after 3pm.

ORIGINAL POST

A cross tile has caved in on Blackford Church Road in rural Crittenden County near the Blackford Veterans Memorial.

The road will be temporarily closed until repairs can be made by county road crews.

The closure is almost two miles from the road's intersection with U.S. 60 East.

Keeping it Rural hosts Bluegrass, BBQ

Click Image to Enlarge
Listen to bluegrass, enjoy some barbecue and shop at one of Kentucky's most unique shops.

Keeping it Rural in Kentucky will host a Bluegrass & BBQ event Saturday, May 22.

Barbecue by Rollin' Smoke will be accompanied by the tunes of Classy & Grassy, featuring Cutter and Cash Singleton and Brennan Cruce.

Owner Stella Guess invites the community to bring chairs and enjoy the day and shop inside her gift shop featuring all Kentucky-made gifts and products.

Saturday, May 15, 2021

Fire destroys Marion home



Marion Fire Department was called to the scene of a residential fire on Chad Street this afternoon.

The home was badly damaged.

No one was home at the time. 

Friday, May 14, 2021

Free vaccine in Marion today


Anyone 12 and older can get a free Pfizer vaccine today Marion Commons in front of city hall.

A mobile FEMA-sponsored clinic will be set up there until 4:30pm today.

This will be the first of two shots to become fully vaccinated. The clinic will be back on June 4 to administer the second round of vaccine.

Set aside about 15 minutes to complete the registration and get the shot.

Masks will still be required at schools

The CDC relaxed guidelines for fully vaccinated people yesterday, allowing them to stop wearing masks indoors, and Gov. Andy Beshear immediately said Kentuckians may follow those guidelines. 

Beshear also announced today, that on June 11, all Kentuckians – vaccinated or not – can drop the masks.

However, there are several exceptions, including crowded indoor settings like buses, planes, nursing homes, hospitals and prisons, even if fully vaccinated. 

Students in K-12, faculty, staff and visitors as schools must continue to mask up, which includes those on a school bus.

A handful of retail stores across the state have initially said they will continue to require masks in their buildings. 

The CDC says encouraging people to get their COVID vaccine was a factor in changing the guidelines, and the governor says he agrees.

Thursday, May 13, 2021

Ages 12-15 can now get vaccine nearby

Gov. Andy Beshear has announced that state vaccination sites can begin today administering Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines to Kentuckians age 12 to 15.

Local public health officials say that rural health departments are not equipped at this time to store that particular vaccine, but strategies are being explored to facilitate its storage and availability here and in nearby counties. 

Currently, Baptist Health in Madisonville, Walgreens in Morganfield or Madisonville and CVS in Paducah are the nearest locations to get the vaccine approved for this age group.

According to a report from the Kaiser Family Foundation, approximately 231,000 Kentuckians are in the 12-15 age group, which makes up roughly 5% of the state’s total population.

Among the three highly effective COVID-19 vaccines that are available, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is the only option for individuals 12-17 years of age. Consent from a parent or legal guardian is required in order for the vaccine to be administered to those who are 12-17 in Kentucky.

During Monday’s briefing on COVID-19, Gov. Beshear and Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, announced the state’s transition to a federal website – vaccines.gov – that allows Kentuckians to search nearby vaccination sites and filter the search by vaccine brand: Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna and/or Janssen/Johnson & Johnson. 

Children are less likely to develop severe illness from COVID-19, however, they can spread COVID-19 to others even when they are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms. Therefore, vaccinating 12- to 15-year-olds will help protect more vulnerable adults by reducing their likelihood of exposure from infected family members. This is important for vulnerable adults even if they are immunized.

The Pfizer vaccine has proven very highly effective at preventing COVID-19 cases in 12- to 15-year-olds.

Children represent a growing proportion of reported cases, and clusters of cases have occurred among adolescents in schools and on sports teams.

Individuals who are fully vaccinated do not need to quarantine after an exposure to someone with COVID-19, which minimizes disruption to the individual and their family.


Buntin to conduct Belt auction May 22

Click Image to Enlarge
Auctioneer Curt Buntin will conduct a sale May 22, selling the estate of Harold and Billie Belt.

The Belt property is located at 854 Lola Road near Salem.

Included are tractors and farm equipment, recreation equipment, outdoor items, tools, furniture and household items.

The sale begins at 10 a.m.

Maranatha hosts Stone Family Sunday

Click Image to Enlarge
Maranatha Baptist Church will have Homecoming Sunday, May 16. 

The event will feature the vocals of The Stone Family led by Bro. Steve Stone.

Services begin at 1 p.m.

The church is located at 1442 Cedar Grove Rd., Salem.

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

Mobile Vaccine Center Friday at Marion Commons

 


Utility pole down at busy Marion intersection


Traffic flow is interrupted at the intersection of US 60 and US 641 (Main and Gum streets) in Marion after a large truck making a turn knocked down a utility pole.

A state highway crew is on the scene directing traffic, but motorists can expect some congestion there for a while this morning until the pole can be replaced.


Tuesday, May 11, 2021

Swim team informational meeting Sunday

Click Image to Enlarge
An informational meeting about the Marion Swim Team will be held Sunday, May 16.

The meeting will be held at Marion Golf & Pool (formerly Marion Country Club), where the Stingrays practice daily and host swim meets.

Sophomores, juniors must be at school Thursday

All Crittenden County sophomores and juniors are required to attend in-person school on Thursday, May 13 whether enrolled for virtual or in-person learning. 

On that day, those students will be engaged in K-PREP testing. Students will be socially distanced and in-person and virtual students will be separated. 

Sophomores will complete tests in reading and math, while juniors will complete tests in science, on-demand writing and social studies. 

Freshmen and seniors will not be on campus during that testing day. They will all be assigned to remote learning. 

With prior approval, sophomores and juniors will be allowed to leave campus upon completion of the testing periods. Transportation will be provided to any students who require it.

Monday, May 10, 2021

Legislators tour Crittenden County schools


Two local legislators visited Crittenden County School District last week.

Sen. Robby Mills (R-Henderson) and Rep. Lynn Bechler (R-Marion) toured all three local schools, meeting with students and staff. Their visit included a roundtable discussion of the victories and challenges of the 2020-21 pandemic school year. 

Track meet to raise lung cancer awareness

Typically, Crittenden County athletes host once a year a track meet to bring attention to efforts to prevent and treat breast cancer. The theme began several years ago when now-retired Angela Starnes was the track and field coach, and even before she was diagnosed with the disease that affects mostly women.

This year, cancer remains the culprit that’s raising awareness, but the annual Pink Out Track and Field Meet set for Tuesday is turning against lung cancer. Senior distance runner Kate Keller asked current track coach Sandra Martinez to allow the gist to be tweaked a bit because one of her mentors was suffering from lung cancer. Plus, it just so happens that the cancer victim has a storied history with the track and field program at Crittenden County.

Marty McKinney of Marion was diagnosed with advance lung cancer a few weeks ago. She was instrumental in helping raise funds to build the oval track at Marion-Crittenden County Park in the 1980s. McKinney’s daughter, Sally, was a talented distance runner who set a couple of records back then. Ironically, it was Keller who recent broke two of them in the .... see the remainder of this article in the May 6, 2021 full edition of The Crittenden Press, which is available online or in print. 


Sunday, May 9, 2021

$50 toward your broadband bill

Starting May 12, eligible families can take advantage of a new government subsidy designed to offset the cost of getting connected at home.

COVID-19 has made the importance of a reliable broadband very clear, but connections like that aren't always easy for rural Kentuckians to find or afford. Now, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is providing a subsidy called the Emergency Broadband Benefit. Families that qualify can sign

Saturday, May 8, 2021

Summer options will help students catch up

Crittenden County School District is finalizing plans for summer school which will offer opportunities for extended learning through Crosswalk and credit-recovery programs for any student needing to complete or repeat graduation requirements. 

Crosswalk will be June 7-10 and July 12-15. Credit recovery will be offered June 7-10, June 14-17, July 12-15 and July 19-22. 

All in-person opportunities for summer learning are from 8:30 a.m., to 12:30 p.m. Transportation will be available and breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Friday, May 7, 2021

Cancer screenings free to qualifying participants

Click Image to Enlarge
You may qualify for a free colon cancer screening.

Regular screenings can help prevent colorectal cancer.

Call today to see if you qualify.

Cancer is preventable, beatable and treatable.

People, materials in high demand

Scarcity of human resources and materials ranging from computer chips to crab legs is frustrating local business owners and inflating costs for consumers.

Glenn Conger at the 88 Dip restaurant has struggled at times to find servers and cooks, but now the shortage is in ketchup and other foods. He had to call off the regular Friday night crab leg special last week because the supply chain had broken down.

“Finding product is just as hard as finding people,” said Conger, and based on his contacts throughout the restaurant industry the problem is widespread.

“We have it easy compared to some restauranteurs I know in other states,” he said.

More than a dozen local businesses are now hiring, but finding few applicants.

“As far as applications go, we have had zero,” Conger adds. “It’s been a long struggle to get there, but right now we have enough workers.”

Michael Parshall, human resources director at Par 4 Plastics, says applications are indeed slow to roll... for the rest of this article see the May 6, 2021 full edition of The Crittenden Press. 


Thursday, May 6, 2021

FRIDAY FOOD: On Campus with Supt. Vince Clark


The inaugural Day of Giving cookout on Friday, May 7 will help raise funds for the Rocket Foundation. 

Established in 2020, the foundation was created to enhance educational and career-related opportunities for Crittenden County High School students. 

Businesses and individuals are encouraged to treat their staff and themselves to lunch. A $6 donation during the Day of Giving cookout includes a pork chop sandwich, chips and a drink.

Pre-orders are accepted at the Board of Education by calling (270) 965-3525.

A donation to the foundation assists the academic efforts of students in the following ways:
•Covers cost of dual credit tuition and textbooks for juniors and seniors and Senior Academy at Madisonville Community College
•Aids with work ready certifications and industry certifications at the Caldwell Regional Career Center
•Provides scholarship opportunities to colleges, universities, and trade schools
•Furthers opportunities for OSHA certification at the Caldwell Regional Career Center and EMT certification through the Health Science Department at Madisonville Community College.

The kickoff fundraiser Friday is one way to support the foundation; however, additional means are offered such as one-time, tax-deductible donations and payroll deductions by employers. To learn more about the latter, contact Tiffany Blazina at (270) 965-3526.



COVID-19 cases continue to drop

Crittenden County's COVID-19 cases have dropped almost off the charts in recent days.

During the six-day period from April 29 through May 5, there were four cases reported in the county.

There have been 699 cases of the virus reported here since the pandemic began and 22 deaths. 

Backwater closes three roads in county

Cool Springs Road, Enon Church Road and Providence Road - all in the eastern part of Crittenden County and in the Tradewater River and Piney Creek flood zones - are under water.

Crittenden County Road Department issued a notice this morning that all those roads are impassable due to rising backwater.

Wednesday, May 5, 2021

Judge to sign motorcycle proclamation

Crittenden County Judge-Executive Perry Newcom will sign a proclamation at 4pm Friday, recognizing Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month for May.  

"All local motorcycle riders or enthusiasts can come to the fiscal courtroom in support of the proclamation and join other Kentucky Motorcycle Association representatives for the signing," Newcom said.

Tuesday, May 4, 2021

Kentucky Secretary of State visits Marion


Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams knows what’s meaningful to western Kentuckians, particularly those in Crittenden and Livingston counties.

His maternal grandmother still lives in Lola and he has deep connections in the Salem area... see the entire Crittenden Press article in this week's newspaper, which will be on newsstands Wednesday. 

County's corn maze will be ready by fall


Later this year, Crittenden Countians will be able to enjoy a corn maze thanks to efforts from some local volunteers.

The crop has already been planted on a plot of land in Industrial Park North.

See the April 29, 2021 full edition of The Crittenden Press for all the details.

Monday, May 3, 2021

Secretary of State at Tuesday Chamber meeting


Crittenden County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a visit from Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams at 9 a.m., Tuesday, May 4. 

Adams will be outlining provisions of Kentucky’s election reform laws. 

This forum will be open to the public and light refreshments will be served. It will be held at the Lions Club’s new Agriculture Education Building at the fairgrounds. 

Adams, who is from Paducah, is a Republican who began serving in January 2020.

Saturday, May 1, 2021

Three chosen for learning programs


Three local students have been chosen for prestigious summer learning programs.

Crittenden County High School juniors Dane West and Samantha Tinsley were chosen from about 2,000 statewide applicants for the Kentucky Governor’s Scholars Program (GPS) for outstanding high school students.

Alyssa Bozeman, a junior at CCHS, was selected as a participant of the Commonwealth Honors Academy.

See the April 29, 2021 full edition of The Crittenden Press for more details.