The Morning 6

Students throughout the region prepare to head back to the classroom this week. The Fancy Farm Picnic wrapped up after a weekend filled with food, fellowship and political discourse.

Organizers prepare for the 146th St. Jerome Picnic, which is set to kick off in Fancy Farm on Saturday; The Unclaimed Property Roadshow made a stop in Marshall County Thursday, as Kentucky Treasurer Mark Metcalf says millions remain unclaimed.

Project leaders discussed the future of the DOE Paducah Site and addressed common concerns about AI data centers. Cornerstone Connectivity announced fiber broadband investments across nearly five square miles in southeast Carlisle County.

Industry leaders will announce a multi-billion dollar project in McCracken County Wednesday, marking a new chapter for the DOE Paducah Site. Local officials remind McCracken County Fair attendees to take safety precautions.

Several buildings throughout the Local 6 region will serve as cooling centers as intense heat and humidity continue. Providers and community members share tips on staying cool and conserving energy this summer.

The MCYSA held a community meeting to address options, after the league asked for clarification on whether the partnership with the county will continue. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 1 reports multiple downed trees across Lyon County.

Donors have the opportunity to give the gift of life through blood donation at Mercy Health Friday. Nonprofit Camp Graves is set to host its fourth annual Job, Education and Community Resource Fair on Saturday at the Mayfield High School gym.

Ahead of the first day of school, area professionals emphasize the importance of children's vaccinations as immunizations decline. Mercy Health plans to partner with the American Red Cross for a community blood drive, which will take place in the Borders Community Room at Mercy Health from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, July 24. 

Construction on Paducah Public Schools' solar field at the former Forest Hills School campus is in its final phase. The goal of the project is to reduce costs and provide hands-on renewable energy education for students; Applications are now open for the McCracken County Sheriff's Office 2026 Citizen's Academy.

Professionals urge the community to stay inside when possible; utilize fans that emit cool, moist air; and to hydrate before completing outdoor activities. The Graves County Sheriff's Office reminded pet owners that leaving animals in extreme heat is torture after a welfare check Monday found a dog deceased.