KY says ferry deal is reached

The State of Kentucky issued a news release shortly before noon today saying that a deal has been reached to keep the Cave In Rock Ferry open for the next two years. The full text of that news release is below.

NEWS RELEASE 

Team Kentucky, and partners at the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) have finalized an agreement with a local ferry authority that maintains a vital transportation connection between Western Kentucky and Illinois while also responsibly stewarding taxpayer dollars.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) and IDOT have engaged officials with the Ohio River Ferry Authority (ORFA) in Crittenden County, Ky., since February to develop a new two-year agreement to support the Cave-in-Rock Ferry.

ORFA was created by the Crittenden County Fiscal Court to oversee the management and operation of the private ferry service, which is equally funded by Kentucky and Illinois. 

“I applaud the teamwork among all our partners to negotiate an improved agreement that ensures citizens of Western Kentucky will remain connected to their neighbors and neighboring communities in Southern Illinois,” said KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “The updated contract ensures transparent and responsible terms are in place to appropriately manage taxpayer dollars from both states used to support the private ferry operation.”   

KYTC and ORFA agreed to a 13% increase in annual funding – the contract is now $1,878,060 each year – while updating terms of the agreement to ensure alignment with the state’s procurement regulations and providing more transparency regarding how state funds are used to support the ferry.

The Cave-in-Rock Ferry carries about 300 vehicles per day at no cost to travelers. Travelers can continue to rely on the Cave-in-Rock Ferry for their journeys between Cave-in-Rock, Ill., and Crittenden County, Ky., without the need for alternate routes.

Ferry close to deal for contract

It appears that negotiations to keep the ferry operating beyond Sunday are getting closer to a deal.

While it's too early to confirm, it appears that both sides are inching closer to an agreement.

Cave In Rock Ferry's two-year contract with the states of Kentucky and Illinois is set to expire Sunday night. Talks late Friday night appear to be making headway. 

Stay tuned for further details. 

Cave In Rock Ferry owner issues statement

With negotiations continuing ahead of expiration of the current ferry contract, Cave In Rock Ferry owner Lonnie Lewis issued a statement today just before 5pm. The ferry's two-year contract expires Sunday. 

Following is the news release issued today.

STATEMENT OF LONNIE RAY LEWIS, INC. D/B/A THE CAVE-IN-ROCK FERRY REGARDING CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS WITH KYTC AND FERRY SCHEDULE

Since October 1994, Lonnie Ray Lewis, Inc., a private Kentucky Corporation owned solely by long-time Hardin County, IL resident, Lonnie Ray Lewis, has owned and operated the Cave-In-Rock Ferry (the “Ferry”).  During this time, generations of farmers, truck drivers, travelers, tourists and local residents have used the Ferry at no cost.  Hundreds of thousands of vehicles have used the Ferry over the years.  

The current biennial contract for FY25-26 between Lonnie Ray Lewis, Inc. and the Ohio River Ferry Authority, Inc. expires on June 30, 2024.  While negotiations are ongoing, no agreement has been reached.  Contrary to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s recent press releases, I, Lonnie Ray Lewis, compromised significantly by accepting the contract price requested by the KYTC, even though I was advised that accepting that price could subject me to undue risk under the contract as modified by the KYTC.  All that I am asking is that the KYTC agree to abide by essentially the same basic contract terms that the Ferry and the KYTC agreed to in the July 1, 2018 Contract, which were slightly modified in the July 1, 2020 Contract and the July 1, 2022 Contract.  However, instead of the KYTC agreeing to use contract terms that it previously agreed to use, the KYTC is insisting on including additional contract terms that are unacceptable and inappropriate for a private business such as the Ferry.

For 16 hours per day, seven days per week, for nearly 30 years, I have put my heart and soul to make sure that the Ferry is safe and operational for all to enjoy and benefit from.  My offer to continue operations under the terms of the prior contracts that both parties previously agreed to, at the price established by the KYTC, is very reasonable.  However, to date, the KYTC has rejected my offer.

While I remain optimistic that acceptable terms can be reached to prevent an interruption in Ferry service, if an agreement cannot be reached, the Ferry’s last trip will depart the Kentucky side of the Ohio River at approximately 9:50 p.m. on Sunday, June 30, 2024.   

Lonnie Ray Lewis

U.S. 641 blocked for crash

U.S. 641 is blocked near the 3 mile marker in Lyon County between Eddyville and Fredonia due to a semi that became stuck while making a turn.

U.S.. 641 is blocked at the KY 3169 (New Bethel Church Road) intersection at mile point 3.15 where a semi attempting to make a turn ran off the roadway and caused damage to the pavement.

Estimated duration is 2 hours or approximately 3 p.m.

Benefit singing raises over $21,000

The Saturday Night Singing Gospel Benefit Show June 22 at Fohs Hall raised more than $21,000 for the families of Kevin Maxfield, Amanda Locke, Lee Boone and the late Troy McGahan families. 

Each of the families is enduring the emotions and expense of serious medical conditions and was chosen as beneficiaries of the event produced by Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass.

McGahan, a local radio personality, died June 16 after being diagnosed with cancer this spring. 

“The love of God was so evident and without Him first and the loving people of our hometown of Marion, this could not have happened,” said Cutter Singleton. “Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!”

Singleton said about 400 people attended the event.

Performers during the fundraiser were Corey and Michelle Crider, David Conyer, Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass, The Davis Family, Lacie Duncan, Anna Beth Blackburn, Linda Brown and Regina Merrick.

“'Thank you' doesn’t seem like enough to say about how this all makes us feel and how thankful we truly are,” said Kayla Maxfield, whose husband Kevin was diagnosed this spring with pancreatic cancer.

Donations will be accepted through Thursday. Make checks payable to Marion Cares and send to 1827 US Highway 641, Marion, KY 42064 or send via Venmo to @marioncaresllc.

See Lone Star for building materials

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Lone Star Building Supply in Princeton offers a full lumber yard and sells building supplies for all types of construction.

Musgove Overhead Doors is part of the business, and both divisions offer free quotes.

Lone Star Building Supply is located on U.S. 62 between Princeton and Eddyville. 

Tolu's Legendary Walled City

Don't miss local historian Brenda Underdown's weekly column in The Crittenden Press.

In June 27 edition, Underdown traces the ancient history of Tolu and its legendary walled city, which fell to early natives who had come across the Ohio River to rescue an Indian maiden.

Underdown's writings appear every week in The Crittenden Press. You can also find her work online at Our Forgotten Passages. 

Grim outlook for Cave In Rock Ferry

With its current contract expiring on Sunday, prospects appear grim for Cave In Rock Ferry service to continue next week.

For several weeks, negotiators have tried to hash out a new deal, and while the price has been tentatively agreed upon, there are sticking points in broader language of the contract.

At the heart of the matter is Kentucky's procurement policy, which neither the ferry owner nor Cave In Rock Ferry Authority say they have been subject to in the past. 

The Ferry Authority, made up of local volunteers, acts as a pass-through agency and has no administrative staff. Crittenden County Judge-Executive Perry Newcom chairs the Ferry Authority. Kentucky's proposed contract calls for monthly reporting by the authority to the state.

Illinois pays for half of the contract cost, but it defers to Kentucky during contract negotiations. The ferry operates on a two-year contract and over the past 6 years there has been greater strife at contract time. The ferry actually quit operating for a time in 2018.

Based on conversations with both sides of the contract talks, it appears highly unlikely that the ferry will operate beyond Sunday.

Kentucky issued a news release on Tuesday that appears to indicate that it is working on an alternative plan. 

Lonnie Lewis, who has operated the ferry for the past 30 years, holds a more than 200-year-old franchise to operate a ferry at the landing on the Kentucky side of the Ohio River. He also owns the property where the ferry landing is located on the Kentucky shore.

We will continue to follow this very important matter, so stay tuned to The Press Online for further developments. 

County Road Department has opening

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An employment opportunity exists in the Crittenden County Road Department.

Candidates must have a valid driver's license and skills relate to equipment operations, general equipment maintenance and ability to learn new skills.

Paid vacation, health insurance, paid holidays, retirement and competitive pay are provided to county employees.

Cash sells Repton properties Saturday

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Two tracts of land including a large home and event venue will sell Saturday, June 30 in Crittenden County.

James R. Cash will sell the property at 303 Repton Cemetery Road near Mattoon at 1 p.m.

Visit JamesRCash.com for additional pictures and information.

Four-Way Stop Coming to Main and Gum

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) plans to convert the intersection of U.S. 60 and U.S. 641 in Marion from a traffic signal to an all-way stop on Thursday, June 27, 2024. 

Conversion of the signalized intersection to an all-way stop is being expedited due to the deterioration of a signal support pole at the northeast corner of the intersection. This is at the intersection of Gum Street and South Main Street in Marion.

As part of a study of traffic flow at the intersection, KYTC engineers temporarily converted it to an all-way stop for several weeks in early 2022. The study found that the intersection functioned well without a signal and reduced delays created by vehicles making left-turns -- even with heavy bus and passenger vehicle traffic when nearby schools dismissed for the day.

"We are confident the intersection will function efficiently as an all-way stop," said KYTC District 1 Chief Engineer Kyle Poat. "Making the conversion now will allow local drivers to become familiar with the new traffic pattern before school starts this fall. It will also save taxpayers the $80,000 or more it would cost to construct a new signal system at this location.”

It’s also an option that would keep trucks from hitting signal poles as has occurred in the past, providing a better turning radius for trucks while enhancing traffic flow.

Approximately 8,200 vehicles travel through the intersection in an average day. U.S. 641 connects with and terminates at U.S. 60 (Main Street) on the north-south legs of the intersection. U.S. 60 (Gum Street) serves as the west leg of the intersection with the east leg being a city street.

On Thursday, traffic signals and equipment will be removed and all-way stop signs placed at each leg of the intersection. 

Ag Hall of Fame | Call for Nominations

Nominations are being accepted through July 5 for Crittenden County Agriculture Rural Leadership Hall of Fame. 

Nominees can be a farmer or someone who has supported the community through agriculture. 

Nomination packets are available at Crittenden County Extension office. 

The 2024 inductee will be recognized during the Lions Club Fair 4-H Breakfast later this summer. 

Living Tree Looking for Voices

1989 Living Tree Photograph

More individuals, particularly men, are needed to join the Living Christmas Tree roster. 

The Community Arts Foundation is reviving the Christmas tradition after an 18-year hiatus. 

Christmas selections will be performed by adult and children’s choirs on five dates in early December at Fohs Hall. 

In addition to vocalists, crew members to help erect and decorate the tree are needed. 

Visit the Community Arts Foundation Facebook page to find a link to register or call Kim Vince at (270)  704-1446.

Recycling still on hold in county

Crittenden County’s recycling program remains on hold, but Judge-Executive Perry Newcom said this week that steps are being taken to resurrect a five-county recycling effort.

The multi-county coalition had been using West Kentucky Correctional Complex as an operations center, but the prison ceased its program earlier this year.

Newcom said a company interested in providing a regional recycling program for area counties hopes to occupy a building in Princeton. There is, however, no specific timetable for the program to begin. As for now, Crittenden County Convenience Center is still not accepting recyclable materials such as plastics, glass or cardboard.

Ohio River seasonal dock launched

County road crews recently launched the Riverview Park boat dock. 

The temporary pier is installed seasonally. It is a convenience for pleasure boaters and fishermen.

A concrete ramp is located at the park on the Ohio River, which is also known as Dam 50.

Truth Troupe performs at Lake City Baptist

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An impressive puppet show with blacklight demonstration will be presented during a special event at Lake City Baptist Church.

Pastor Billy Riley and congregation invite youth groups and individuals alike to the free event June 23.

Lake City Baptist Church is located in Grand Rivers on Hazel Demery Rd.

"Get in the Book" is the theme of the event, that features a smoke features, strobe lights and an exciting show for all ages.

Chamber hosting Leadership Breakfast

Crittenden County Chamber of Commerce will host a Leadership Breakfast starting at 7 a.m., on Wednesday, June 26 at The Venue (former Woman’s Club Building) with Dr. Tyler Hamilton of Livingston Hospital leading a program about addiction in the community. 

Candy’s Kitchen is catering the event. 

Fatal Accident in Marion Wednesday

An Illinois man was killed Wednesday night when his tractor-trailer crashed on the north side of Marion.

A preliminary investigation by Kentucky State Police found that Shawn G. Colman, 61, of Louisville, IL was operating a 2025 Kenworth, traveling eastbound just before 11 p.m., on US 60 when the rig exited the right shoulder of the roadway striking a power pole and overturning.

Colman, the driver, was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Crittenden County coroner.

State police investigators were assisted on scene by the Crittenden County Sheriff's Department, Crittenden County Rescue Squad, Crittenden County EMS, Marion Police Department and state highway crews.

The investigation is ongoing byAccident Reconstructionist Aaron Jestes. 

Benefit Singing Saturday at Fohs Hall

A benefit singing led by Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass will be held starting at 7 p.m., Saturday at Fohs Hall. Beneficiaries will be four local individuals either deceased or currently battling life-threatening illness. 

Troy McGahan, one beneficiary of the concert proceeds, passed away earlier this week. His survivors will be presented with a share of the charitable gifts.

Kevin Maxfield and Amanda Locke, who are fighting cancer; and Lee Boone, who suffered a series of strokes, will also benefit from the event.

There is no admission to the event, but donations are being accepted.

McGahan was a WMJL on-air radio personality. He hosted the West Kentucky Wakeup Show weekdays from 6 to 9 a.m. 

Maxfield is a member of the Marion Tourism and Recreation Commission, Boone is a longtime auto body repair specialist and Locke works in the nursing field. 

The show will feature a variety of music genres with performances by local entertainers, including Corey and Michelle Crider, David Conyer, The Davis Family, Linda Brown, Lacie Duncan, Anna Beth Blackburn and Eli Moss. Doors open at 6 p.m.

“I expect a very big crowd, standing room only,” said Brennan Cruce, bass player for The Kentucky Grass.

Make contribution checks payable to Marion Cares.

The Longest Day

Today is Summer Solstice, the day when the earth reaches its maximum tilt toward the sun

It is the longest day of the year and the official start of summer. 

There will be approximately 15 hours of daylight today with the sun rising at 5:31 a.m., and setting at 8:17 p.m.

Press closed but paper available Wednesday

The Crittenden Press, along with the federal, state and county offices and banks will be closed Wednesday, June 19 in observance of the Juneteenth federal holiday. Juneteenth, officially Juneteenth National Independence Day, is celebrated on June 19 to commemorate the ending of slavery in the United States.

This week's edition of the newspaper will be available at normal outlets.

Cash sells Repton property June 30

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Two tracts of land including a large home and event venue will sell Saturday, June 30 in Crittenden County.

James R. Cash will sell the property at 303 Repton Cemetery Road near Mattoon at 1 p.m.

Visit JamesRCash.com for additional pictures and information.

10 Under 40: Volunteer - Taylor Crabtree

This spring The Crittenden Press honored 10 of the brightest in their field 

with the 10 Under 40 community recognition program. 

 Today we're celebrating our final honoree, Taylor Crabtree in the Volunteer Category.

In case you missed it, you can read a feature story about Crabtree was published 

in the May 16 issue of The Crittenden Press. Subscribe.

Thank you to our 10 Under 40 sponsors:

A Cut Above Butcher Shop

Saturn Machine

Farmers Bank and Trust Co.

Marion Recycling

Par 4 Plastics

Dairy Queen

Meuth Concrete

Holcim

Mike Gilkey Shelter Insurance

Mr. Paint offers interior, exterior services

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Mr. Paint LLC is transforming the home improvement scene with its comprehensive and high-quality painting services. Known for their meticulous approach and use of top-tier brands like Valspar and Emerald paints, Mr. Paint is rapidly becoming the preferred choice of residents in Marion and surrounding counties.

Mr. Paint offers an impressive range of services such as walls, ceilings, trim and furniture and challenging projects on metal roofs, chimneys and fences. It also offers wood staining, ensuring that both new and old decks receive the perfect finish. Mr. Paint's licensed and insured teams operate multiple crews, guaranteeing efficiency and reliability on every job.

What sets Mr. Paint apart is its systematic and customer-focused process. Each project undergoes rigorous planning and supervision, with final inspections personally conducted by the owner alongside homeowners. This decision to excellence and customer satisfaction is making waves, positioning Mr. Paint as a game-changer in the local home improvement industry.

Get your estimate today by calling (270) 454-4088. You can also visit us at Mr. Paint Homes mrpaint.homes or by clicking the link provided on the button on The Crittenden Press blogspot.

Redbone Coonhound puppies for sale

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Outstanding bloodline of Redbone Coonhound puppies are available from a Crittenden County breeder.

Puppies were born May 19. Sire and dam are on site.

Call for more information, (270) 969-0739.

Cicadas responsible for dead limbs, leaves

While the cicada serenade has died down, evidence of their spring fling is never more evident.

Trees across the landscape have been damaged by the insects egg-laying ritual.

See this week's full edition of The Crittenden Press for further details.

June PTSD Awareness Month

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New Beginnings Behavioral Health is offering free, confidential PTSD screenings this month.

June is PTSD Awareness Month, bringing attention to the condition that is caused by multiple types of trauma, including abuse, violent crime, war or disasters.

On June 27, New Beginnings is encouraging everyone to wear teal on PTSD Awareness Day.

To learn more about New Beginnings' services or to speak to a clinician, call (270) 988-2675.

US 60 closing farther out on Tuesday

Motorists have dealt with a closure of US 60 in front of the schools and hospital this week. 

Next week it will be closed farther out of town. 

The highway will be closed to traffic from 6:30 a.m., until 2 p.m., on Tuesday, June 18 to allow crews to replace a cross drain at the top of Moore Hill near the water tower. 

The road will be closed to through traffic between KY 297 and KY 1668.

Drama Camp Registration Deadline June 14

Students in grades 2-6 will learn acting techniques and public speaking skills and enhance self-confidence and memorization skills during a five-day drama camp at Fohs Hall.The camp runs daily from 1-4 p.m., at Fohs Hall.

"Drama Camp is the most fun kids will have all summer – it’s an experience they won’t want to miss," says Community Arts Foundation member and coordinator 

Kim Vince. "This is a great opportunity for kids to gain skills locally to enhance their acting skills, build confidence, and create lifelong memories."

Pre-registration is required to ensure a spot. Early bird registration is $75 through June 7. Late registration is $100, with a final deadline of June 14. Registration is required to help organizers plan and pick an appropriate play for the number of participants. 

Professional guidance will be given by Corey and Michelle Crider and additional volunteers.

Camp activities will include workshops, interactive games and rehearsals, all leading up to a public performance at 4 p.m. on June 21. This final showcase will allow campers to shine and share their newfound skills with family and friends.

To register, contact Vince at 270-704-1446 or register at https://forms.gle/invjwCWwWH3czdk4A.

Get out your Time Machine

This week's Crittenden Press newspaper has a big announcement from Fohs Hall and Community Arts Foundation. 

Get out your Time Machine and get revved up for this week's news. 

Can you name everyone in this 1989 picture of the Living Christmas Tree?

We have taken a stab at it in this week's paper.

Some voices of the past could be rocking the holidays once again.

Cash Auctions selling Repton property

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An auction of a large Crittenden County home and 

event venue will be sold by James R. Cash on 

Sunday, June 30.

Located on Repton Cemetery Rd., near Mattoon, the property will be sold in two tracts. One with 12.83 acres plus home and event center and a second grant of 8.63 acres.

Photos can be found at JamesRCash.com.

Moth survey on Crittenden County trees

Residents of Crittenden, Livingston and other nearby counties may see a bright red box tacked to a tree along a roadside in their neighborhood. These are traps designed to help scientists survey spongy moths.

The moth was accidentally introduced to America just over 100 years ago. 

Since then, it has spread across a great portion of the country, particularly the Northeast and now westward and southerly.

See the June 6, 2024 full edition of The Crittenden Press for further details on the program to track the month's movement. 

CCHS SBDM meeting Thursday

There will be a special meeting of the Crittenden County High School Site-Based Decision-Making Council meeting at 3:30 p.m., Thursday at the high school.

UK Transfer Almonor will not be overwhelmed

Kentucky basketball fans can sometimes overwhelm a player with their attention but that should not be a problem for Fairleigh Dickson transfer Ansley Almoner.

“If people reach out to me, I am not too big for anybody,” said the 6-7 Almoner. “I am open to any opportunity and talking to anyone. That’s just my natural personality. I am a nice guy. If you want to talk to me, I will. I am not the most outgoing person but I am not shy either.”

He admits it did surprise him a bit when he had “thousands of people” following him after he became interested in transferring to UK to play for coach Mark Pope. 

“It was tough at first but I got used to it,” he said. “I am from a small town, a small school. We didn’t get that much coverage or recognition.”

Almoner made a school record 93 3-pointers at Fairleigh Dickinson last season when he averaged 16.4 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game to earn first-team All-Northeast Conference honors.

“I always thought I could play at the highest level. I was not always thinking about that but I knew if the opportunity came, I would jump on it,” Almoner said. “It was a pretty easy sell with Kentucky. I asked my questions. I wanted some feedback and to get the Kentucky vibe. It worked out perfectly.”

Almoner had never been to Lexington before  his official visit. He liked the “city vibe” but was surprised that Lexington was bigger than he thought. He also liked what the opportunity to play at Kentucky could potentially do for his basketball career.

“I want to play at the highest level to get me ready to play at the next level (NBA). I want to be able to enjoy the next level,” the Kentucky transfer said. “Shooting is my best strength. I have a good midrange game and can make plays with the ball in my hand. I use different angles and footwork.

“I have worked to develop my all-around game. My dad always told me to stay in the gym and everything you deserve will come to you. Just pray and work and good things will come. My dad

Night closure of I-24 Bridge Tuesday

A contractor for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) plans a night closure of Interstate 24 between the U.S. 62 Calvert City Exit 27 interchange and the KY 453 Grand Rivers Exit 31 interchange starting at 7 p.m., tomorrow.

Milling and paving at the end of the I-24 Tennessee River Bridge will require both eastbound and westbound lanes to be closed from 7 p.m. to about midnight on Tuesday.

Eastbound Detour
Eastbound I-24 traffic will be detoured off at the U.S. 62 Calvert City interchange to take U.S. 62 East to KY 453 North to return to I-24 eastbound at the Grand Rivers Exit 31 interchange.

Westbound Detour
Westbound I-24 traffic will be detoured off at the KY 453 Grand Rivers Exit 31 interchange to take KY 453 South to U.S. 62 West to return to I-24 westbound via the Calvert City Exit 27 interchange.

Flaggers will be stationed at key intersections along the detour to assist with traffic flow.  There will be a substantial police presence along the detour.

Motorists who regularly travel U.S. 62 and KY 453 along the detour route should be aware of increased traffic volume while the detour is in place.

When traffic returns to normal flow around midnight on Tuesday, motorists should be aware that the I-24 work zone from the 29 mile marker to the 33 mile marker will continue to be active from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily.  

Gospel music to benefit medical patients

A gospel singing to benefit four families undergoing serious medical situations will be presented by Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass June 22 at Fohs Hall.

The show will feature performances by local entertainers to raise money for Troy McGahan, Kevin Maxfield and Amanda Locke, all of whom are fighting cancer; and Lee Boone, who is hospitalized after a series of strokes, according to information posted on the band’s social media. Donations accepted at the event will be divided among the four families. McGahan is a WMJL on-air radio personality and Maxfield is a member of the Marion Tourism and Recreation commission. Boone is a longtime auto body repair specialist and Locke works in the nursing field.

The event begins at 7 p.m., and includes performances by Corey and Michelle Crider, David Conyer, The Davis Family, Linda Brown, Regina Merrick, Lacie Duncan and Anna Beth Blackburn. Admission is free.

Mr. Paint focuses on customer service

Mr. Paint LLC is transforming the home improvement scene with its comprehensive and high-quality painting services. Known for their meticulous approach and use of top-tier brands like Valspar and Emerald paints, Mr. Paint is rapidly becoming the preferred choice of residents in Marion and surrounding counties.

Mr. Paint offers an impressive range of services such as walls, ceilings, trim and furniture and challenging projects on metal roofs, chimneys and fences. It also offers wood staining, ensuring that both new and old decks receive the perfect finish. Mr. Paint's licensed and insured teams operate multiple crews, guaranteeing efficiency and reliability on every job.

What sets Mr. Paint apart is its systematic and customer-focused process. Each project undergoes rigorous planning and supervision, with final inspections personally conducted by the owner alongside homeowners. This decision to excellence and customer satisfaction is making waves, positioning Mr. Paint as a game-changer in the local home improvement industry.

Get your estimate today by calling (270) 454-4088. You can also visit us at Mr. Paint Homes mrpaint.homes or by clicking the link provided on the button on The Crittenden Press blogspot.

US 60 / Gum Street Closed starting Monday

Construction of a new turn lane in front of the high school and hospital will temporarily close U.S. 60 (Gum Street) for a few days starting on Monday, June 10.

The closure will be only a short stretch of highway, but will prevent through traffic and prevent access into the main entrances of Crittenden Community Hospital and the school campus. Alternative access to the hospital on Country Club Drive and the U.S. 60 entrance to Family Practice Clinic will remain open. Also, the school campus can be accessed from West Elm Street near the bus garage. 

U.S. 60 will be closed about 150 feet east of Country Club Drive to allow a large cross-drain to be replaced near the hospital entrance. 

The roadway at this site is expected to close at 6 a.m., Monday and remain closed for about three days.

For more details on the road work and closure see the full edition of The Crittenden Press dated June 6, 2024.

 

10 Under 40: Food Service - Dustin Greenwell

This spring The Crittenden Press honored 10 of the brightest in their field 

with the 10 Under 40 community recognition program. 

 Today we're celebrating Dustin Greenwell in the Food Service Category.

In case you missed it, you can read a feature story about the staff of Greenwell was published 

in the May 9 issue of The Crittenden Press. Subscribe.

Thank you to our 10 Under 40 sponsors:

A Cut Above Butcher Shop

Saturn Machine

Farmers Bank and Trust Co.

Marion Recycling

Par 4 Plastics

Dairy Queen

Meuth Concrete

Holcim

Mike Gilkey Shelter Insurance

Police launch death investigation into incident

A death investigation is underway into what appears may have been some type of traffic accident near Dycusburg this afternoon.

An Illinois man in his late 30s was found deceased in a ditch. It’s unclear at this time what exactly happened. 

An ambulance and local authorities were called to the scene about 3:30pm and found the man. Kentucky State Police is in charge of the investigation.

A female, who is believed associated with the victim, was taken into custody. Although both have Illinois identification, the couple is believed to have been residing not far from the scene where the man was found near the intersection of KY 902 and Stinnett Road.

Backwater affects 3 county roads

Three Crittenden County roads are affected by high water as of this morning.

They are Providence Road, Cool Springs Road and Enon Church Road. All of them are in the eastern quadrant of the county and affected by backwater from Piney Creek and Tradewater River.

Hurricane Camp Meeting next week

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Next week marks the 136th annual Hurricane Camp Meeting, the week long non-denominational church revival on the grounds of Hurricane Church.

Nightly church services coincide with the annual youth camp. Meals are available in the dining hall at 5:30 p.m., followed by church services Monday through Saturday at 7 p.m., and at 6 p.m., Sunday. An 11 a.m. service on Sunday is also scheduled.

Bro. Steve Stone is the evangelist, with music provided by The Stone Family and Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass.

We write the history of your community

Every week we're writing the history of Marion and Crittenden County, and beyond. 

We invite you to enjoy enjoy this living history by subscribing to The Crittenden Press either in print or electronic form. Our mission is to inform you of current news, but to also provide archival material for later generations. With that in mind, we started many years ago keeping electronic archives of our news and obituaries. 

Below you can find links to what was making news here 20 years ago this month. 

Each week in the full edition of The Crittenden Press, we publish a similar feature called ThrowBack Thursdays where we highlight happenings from 10, 25 and 50 years ago that week. 

June 3, 2004 / June 10, 2004 / June 17, 2004 / June 24, 2004 

In order to keep the news coming, we need your help. Please consider subscribing. We can send the paper to your mailbox or your in-box. There is even an SMS option. 

SUBSCRIBE LINK

The Crittenden Press is your primary source of news and information for this community. We’re proud to serve our community and we take great pride in bringing you real news, sports reporting and other information that helps you know what’s going on in town and across the county. Help ensure that real reporting continues in this community by subscribing today. You can subscribe online to the full version of the newspaper for only $2.95 a month. Try our new e-Edition newspaper emailed straight to your inbox every Wednesday. Click here to SUBSCRIBE.

Copyright 2024

The Crittenden Press

Junior golf begins Monday in Marion

The second season for a junior golf league sponsored by Marion Baptist Church begins Monday, June 10 at the Heritage Golf Course in Marion.

Cost is $50 and includes five sessions and a collared golf shirt. Students first grade through high school are encouraged to participate.

Golf league will be held on the following dates: June 10, June 24, July 8, July 15 and July 29. Registration starts at 4:30 p.m., on each of these dates with play beginning at 5 p.m. Pre-registration is available online or at MBC during regular office.

For more information, call Shawn Holeman at (270) 704-1493.

Fredonia considering higher water rate

Water, sewer and garbage collection rates are likely to rise in July for Fredonia utility customers.

A proposed increase was introduced during last month’s Fredonia City Council meeting. Final approval will be considered when the council meets in regular session on Monday, June 17.

For more details on this proposed increase, see this week's full edition of The Crittenden Press.

Ferry company rejects state contract

Cave In Rock Ferry has rejected the offer of Kentucky's two-year contract to operate the service across the Ohio River. 

The current contract expires at the end of June. Negotiations for the last three 2-year contracts have gone until the 11th hour or later before a pact has been signed.

The state, which in cooperation with Illinois reimburses the ferry operator for expenses, has offered a 13-percent revenue bump for the coming contract period.

We will have full details in next week's Crittenden Press.

Marion High School demolition

 

Bike crash sends 10 year old to Vanderbilt

A 10-year-old Marion boy injured Monday in a bicycle crash involving an automobile on East Bellville Street is recovering at Vanderbilt Hospital in Nashville. 

The crash happened during a brief rainstorm at about 6:30 p.m.

While the investigation remains open, no charges are pending against the driver of the automobile.

More details can be found in this week's full edition of The Crittenden Press.

Summer farm consignment sale is Saturday

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The summer consignment sale at Buntin Auction Service June 8 will offer farm equipment of all makes and type. 

Auctioneer Curt Buntin has tractors, trailers, tools, vehicles, recreational vehicles and miscellaneous farm equipment ready to be sold to the highest bidder.

The sale begins at 9 a.m., behind Buntin Trailer Sales on KY 297 near Sheridan.

Drama camp June 17-21

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Students in grades 2-6 will learn acting techniques and public speaking skills and enhance self-confidence and memorization skills during a five-day drama camp at Fohs Hall.The camp runs daily from 1-4 p.m., at Fohs Hall.

"Drama Camp is the most fun kids will have all summer – it’s an experience they won’t want to miss," says Community Arts Foundation member and coordinator 

Kim Vince. "This is a great opportunity for kids to gain skills locally to enhance their acting skills, build confidence, and create lifelong memories."

Pre-registration is required to ensure a spot. Early bird registration is $75 through June 7. Late registration is $100, with a final deadline of June 14. Registration is required to help organizers plan and pick an appropriate play for the number of participants.
Professional guidance will be given by Corey and Michelle Crider and additional volunteers.

Camp activities will include workshops, interactive games and rehearsals, all leading up to a public performance at 4 p.m. on June 21. This final showcase will allow campers to shine and share their newfound skills with family and friends.

To register, contact Vince at 270-704-1446 or register at https://forms.gle/invjwCWwWH3czdk4A.

Free Summer Meal Program begins today

Crittenden County School District’s free summer meals program began this week and runs through July 23. 

There are five locations around the county where students, parents or guardians can pick up meals every Tuesday during the program period.

This locations are Crittenden County Elementary School at the back entrance 11 a.m., to 1 p.m., Mattoon Fire Department 11 to 11:15 a.m., Frances Fire Department 11 to 11:15 a.m., Shady Grove Fire Department noon to 12:15 p.m., and Tolu Fire Department noon until 12:15 p.m. 

Each week, meal packages will include five breakfasts and five lunches. 

This program is available for anyone 18 and under.

10 Under 40: Retail - Staff of H&H Home and Hardware

This spring The Crittenden Press honored 10 of the brightest in their field 

with the 10 Under 40 community recognition program. 

 Today we're celebrating H&H Home and Hardware in the Retail Category.

In case you missed it, you can read a feature story about the staff of H&H Home and Hardware was published in the May 2 issue of 

The Crittenden Press. Subscribe.

Thank you to our 10 Under 40 sponsors:

A Cut Above Butcher Shop

Saturn Machine

Farmers Bank and Trust Co.

Marion Recycling

Par 4 Plastics

Dairy Queen

Meuth Concrete

Holcim

Mike Gilkey Shelter Insurance

Mr. Paint offers local services

Mr. Paint LLC is transforming the home improvement scene with its comprehensive and high-quality painting services. Known for their meticulous approach and use of top-tier brands like Valspar and Emerald paints, Mr. Paint is rapidly becoming the preferred choice of residents in Marion and surrounding counties.

Mr. Paint offers an impressive range of services such as walls, ceilings, trim and furniture and challenging projects on metal roofs, chimneys and fences. It also offers wood staining, ensuring that both new and old decks receive the perfect finish. Mr. Paint's licensed and insured teams operate multiple crews, guaranteeing efficiency and reliability on every job.


What sets Mr. Paint apart is its systematic and customer-focused process. Each project undergoes rigorous planning and supervision, with final inspections personally conducted by the owner alongside homeowners. This decision to excellence and customer satisfaction is making waves, positioning Mr. Paint as a game-changer in the local home improvement industry.

Get your estimate today by calling (270) 454-4088. You can also visit us at Mr. Paint Homes mrpaint.homes or by clicking the link provided on the button on The Crittenden Press blogspot.

Commuting: Who's In and Who's Out

If you missed the May 23, 2024 full edition of The Crittenden Press don't worry!

An article starting on that front page examined Commuting in Crittenden County. We detailed who is coming into the county for work and who's driving out. 

The article was complete with data showing precisely where people are driving to in order to earn a paycheck, and why.

You can still get that issue either in hard copy at our office in Marion, or by subscribing to the full edition online. 

Online, we archive our newspapers back to 2008 so when you subscribe to the full electronic edition, you get them all. 

Our archives are great for historic and genealogy research. 

We also have options for subscribing to an emailed or texted version of The Crittenden Press.

SUBSCRIBE LINK

The Crittenden Press is your primary source of news and information for this community. We’re proud to serve our community and we take great pride in bringing you real news, sports reporting and other information that helps you know what’s going on in town and across the county. Help ensure that real reporting continues in this community by subscribing today. You can subscribe online to the full version of the newspaper for only $2.95 a month. Try our new e-Edition newspaper emailed straight to your inbox every Wednesday. Click here to SUBSCRIBE.

Copyright 2024

The Crittenden Press

Fraschilla impressing hoops observers

Jasper Johnson is in Buenos Aires, Argentina, this week with USA Basketball playing in the FIBA U18 AmeriCup along with 11 other talented USA players.

The former Woodford County High School standout who transferred to Link Academy (Branson, Mo.) for his junior season has over 20 scholarship offers including Kentucky, North Carolina, Auburn, Baylor, Kansas, Louisville and Texas A&M. 

ESPN college basketball analyst Fran Fraschilla considers himself a “hoops junkie.” He’s a former head coach at Manhattan, St. John’s and New Mexico and had his first chance to watch Johnson in person at the USA tryout camp.

“He is not athletically as dynamic as (former UK guard/NBA star) De’Aaron Fox but his smooth lefty game does remind me of De’Aaron,” Fraschilla said. “A lot of guys are shooters but not many are makers. He scores so effortlessly and just has unique skills. I was really impressed with not only his outside shooting but also his ability to get to the basket and be a very creative scorer.

“To be a great scorer you have got to be able to get your own shot off and he has a knack for getting his shots. He’s not piggish at all. He didn’t look to take a shot every time he touched the ball on a team with very good future point guards. But to me, he is the best scoring guard they have. 

“When I coached a guy like Jasper, I always told my staff, ‘Let’s not over complicate this. He needs to score.’ He can really add to this team with all he does but there’s no doubt his strength is putting the ball in the basket.”

Fraschilla knows Johnson is in the “early stages of his physical maturity” just like other players on the USA team. Fraschilla said Johnson, who played football two years at Woodford County, could hold his own physically now.

“He is a very elusive player. He just knows how to get himself into the right places, especially driving