2 Livingston cases among KSP's unsolved

Kentucky State Police are renewing their effort to solve unsolved cases by asking the public for assistance with leads. Two of the cases are from Livingston County.

In 2010, KSP distributed over 8,000 decks of playing cards to prisons across Kentucky depicting unsolved case information. 

 

The deck of cards highlighted 52 unsolved Kentucky homicide or missing person cases.  Since that time, three of those cases have been solved.

 

KSP hopes that sharing information with the public again will provide fresh leads that can help solve these cases and bring some closure to families.

 

Tpr. Michael Webb reviews the leads as they come in and disseminates the information to local posts.

 

“We have received hundreds of tips in the past two years that we hope will lead to more cases being solved,” says Webb.  “Not only do these tips assist with solving cases, they sometimes provide additional information about other criminal activity taking place.”

 

KSP has placed copies of the complete deck of cards on its website at http://www.kentuckystatepolice.org/unsolved_cases.htm.

They have also established a toll free tip line where tips can remain anonymous at 1-877-735-2648.  The public can also submit tips via email at kyunsolved@ky.gov. 

 

 

 

 

 

Area deaths

Lonnie Bates Payne, 73, of Cadiz died Thursday, Dec. 27 at his home. Mr. Payne is survived locally by a daughter, Angela Starnes. Private services were Friday in Cadiz.

Bonnie Kay Deckert, 58 of Marion died Thursday, Dec. 27 at Crittenden Hospital. Services are Sunday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion.

Mildred Sue (Martin) King, 70, of Salem died Friday, Dec. 28, 2012 at Salem Springlake Health and Rehabilitation Center in Salem. Services are Monday at the chapel of Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem.

Area death

James W. Brown, 82, of Grand Rivers died Tuesday at Western Baptist Hospital in Paducah. Locally, he is survived by Jerry Brown and his wife, Paula of Fredonia. Services are Sunday at Lakeland Funeral Home.

Enoch funeral in Tennessee

We have updated information about funeral services for Barry Enoch, who died Christmas Day.

Enoch was a Navy SEAL, who grew up in Marion. He received the Navy Cross, the second highest medal given to soldiers who serve in the Navy, Marines and Coast Guard. He authored a book about his experiences during the Vietnam War. Here is a link to the book on Amazon.

Visitation for Enoch will be from 5-8 p.m., Saturday at Anderson & Sons Funeral Home in Lafayette, Tenn. The funeral is at 2 p.m., Sunday.

You can read a great deal about Enoch online. Follow the link below to get you started.

Barry Enoch on the Web

Westeberry funeral services

Update: Services are now finalized for the Nancy Westberry funeral in Paducah. The service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday at the Grace Episcopal Church. Burial will follow in the Smithland Cemetery.  Visitation will begin at noon Saturday at the church.  Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah is in charge of the arrangements.

Morris funeral changes

Services for Joe. E. Morris, 86, of Marion have been changed due to the weather. Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m., Thursday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion and the funeral will be at 1 p.m., Friday. Morris died Saturday.

Belated White Christmas for Marion

Local and state highway crews are reporting 2-4 inches of snow in the area. Crittenden County's snowfall is somewhere in that range depending on what end of the county you are in. The higher amounts are in the northern part. 

In Marion, city hall will be open today, but primarily for the purpose of dealing with weather emergencies. 

"We are urging people to not be on the streets of Marion unless absolutely necessary," said City Administrator Mark Bryant. "Do not come to city hall to pay water bills today. We are not going to be shutting off water for nonpayment for the rest of the week."

Street conditions are extremely slick and hazardous, Bryant added. 

"We have been plowing since 3 a.m., and are making little headway and the storm shows no signs of letting up," the city official said.

Keith Todd, spokesman for the Kentucky Department of Highways, said the snow is wet, so drifting has not been much of a problem. Pavement temperatures have held pretty steady at 30 degrees which has aided the plowing effort early this morning. However, that is expected to change as temps drop on the back side of the storm, Todd said.

Snow has accumulated rather quickly and the blowing wind is causing some visibility issues.

"As commuters start to venture out this morning we’ve had an increase in the number of vehicles off the road," Todd said. "Remember to slow down and buckle up. Motorists are asked to use extra caution when they encounter a snow plow at work."

Stay tuned for weather updates as they are available.

Area deaths

Nancy Elizabeth Kent Westberry, of Paducah, formerly of Marion, died Monday. Services are later this week in Paducah.

Barry Enoch of Lafayette, Tenn., formerly of Marion, died Tuesday. Enoch was a former U.S. Navy SEAL, earned the Navy Cross medal and wrote a book about the Vietnam War. Arrangements are incomplete at this time.

State police offer winter driving safety tips

With the onset of winter and the possibility that motorists may have to drive in inclement weather, the Kentucky State Police (KSP) are offering safe driving tips.

 

The weather in Kentucky is unpredictable and this time of year you never know when to expect black ice, snow, icy roads or a mixture of road conditions.  KSP is asking motorists to prepare in advance for the winter driving months ahead. “Winter provides new challenges and responsibilities to the public and the Kentucky State Police,” says KSP Commissioner Rodney Brewer.

 

“We ask that drivers be prepared to meet the challenges of the upcoming winter season in Kentucky.  Plan ahead, make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained, drive defensively and be sure the vehicle is properly maintained to handle the effects of cold temperatures.”

 

KSP reported that slippery roads were the contributing factor in 14,913 crashes and 63 fatalities in 2011.

Here are a few simple steps to help keep you on the road and less stressed.

 

• AVOID TRAVEL UNLESS NECESSARY WHEN WINTER WEATHER IS IN YOUR AREA.
• DECREASE SPEED.
• WEAR YOUR SEATBELT.

 

Driving Considerations

• Leave early – allow more travel time; expect delays.
• Increase distance between vehicles – it takes significantly longer to stop on snow covered or icy roadways.
• Clear all windows on your vehicle prior to travel – having unobstructed vision is vital to avoid running off of the road or having a collision.
• Illuminate your vehicles headlamps.
• Use caution on bridges and overpasses as they susceptible to freezing before roadways.
• Avoid using cruise control – cruise can cause the vehicle’s wheels to continue turning on a slippery surface when speed needs to be decreased. 

 

Be Prepared

• Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas in the event you are stranded for an extended period of time.
• Charge your cellular phone prior to departure.
• Take a blanket.
• Notify a family member or a friend of your travel plans prior to departure – if you travel is interrupted, someone will know

 

Collision Information

• Be patient – weather also limits our capabilities and increases our response time; also, keep in mind that we will be experiencing a high volume of requests for service.
• Attempt to move your vehicle out of the roadway if you are involved in a minor, non-injury traffic collision; especially if you are in a dangerous area such as a curve or a blind hill.
• If your vehicle is stranded or wrecked but not in the roadway, attempts to recover your vehicle will have to wait until conditions improve for safety considerations.  

 

To view KSP’s Winter Driving Tip Sheet, click here http://www.kentuckystatepolice.org/pdf/2012_Winter_Driving_Tips.pdf

 

Citizens can contribute to highway safety by reporting erratic drivers to the Kentucky State Police toll-free at 1-800-222-5555. Callers will remain anonymous and should give a description of the vehicle, location, direction of travel and license number if possible.

Fire departments responding house fire

Various area fire departments are currently on the scene of a house fire on Crayne Cemetery Road.

Area deaths

Kenneth Ray Brantley, 63, of Marion died Saturday, Dec. 22, 2012 at Crittenden County Hospital.
Services were Monday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion.

Joe E. Morris, 86, of Marion died Saturday, Dec. 22, 2012 at Crittenden Hospital. Services are Thursday at Gilbert Funeral Home.

Area death

James Clarence Woodall, 81, of Princeton died Thursday at Lourdes Hospital in Paducah. Services are Thursday, Dec. 27 at Gilbert Funeral Home.

Area death

Terry Ray McKinney, 66, of Marion died Thursday. Services are Monday at St. William Catholic Church. Myers Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Major drug bust leads to Barry Beard in Marion

A major western Kentucky drug bust by state police and ATF agents led to the arrest of Barry K. Beard. 42, of Marion and his daughter, Brittany Beard, 18, on Saturday.

Investigators say Beard and his daughter were involved in a drug operation. Officers confiscated almost $100,000 in cash and drugs from his residence on Tom Minter Road in rural Crittenden County Saturday.

Beard is facing various drug and weapons charges.

The Crittenden Press printed edition will have details next week.

Bunton Cemetery back in the news

The U.S. Corps of Engineers is asking for public comment through the end of this month regarding an application for a proposed rock quarry and barge docking facility on the Cumberland River near Dycusburg.

Already, the company proposing to develop the quarry has removed graves from a pioneer family cemetery. Descendants of those buried at Bunton Cemetery have raised issues regarding the removal and have met with federal officials about their concerns.

See this week's Crittenden Press printed edition for details. The newspaper will be on newsstands after 3 p.m., today.

Flu is widespread, many students sick

State health officials say the flu is widespread in Kentucky, and they are recommending vaccinations for everyone except infants younger than six months old.
 
The Department for Public Health said in a statement on Wednesday that widespread flu activity means there are outbreaks in at least half of the regions in the state. 

In Marion, Jill Croft, ARNP, says the flu is in full force. She is treating both A and B strands of the virus.  
Health Commissioner Stephanie Mayfield says the agency is "strongly urging" anyone who hasn't gotten vaccinated to do so, especially if they are at risk for complications.

Students have been affected by illness. Crittenden Middle School has dropped below 90 percent attendance in recent days.

Community Christmas struggling in final hours

With only hours left before Friday's distribution day, Community Christmas organizers said they still have 33 children that need sponsorship.  

Angel tags are available at Farmers Bank and at the County Extension Office through noon on Thursday.  

Community Christmas organizer Nancy Hunt said sponsor items will be due between 9 a.m., and 4 p.m., Thursday at the National Guard Armory in Marion.

Families will pick up items at their appointed time at the armory on Friday. Distribution begins at 9 a.m.  Appointment times were arranged for families when they initially registered for Community Christmas.  

Hunt said monetary donations are down $1,300 from last year at this time.  

"Our goal of $10,865 was based on what we were able to provide last year. However, if we do not have all children sponsored we will need to provide some gift vouchers for those children which means the teen vouchers and food vouchers will be of lesser value this year," Hunt said.
 

Cash donations can be taken directly to Farmers Bank or dropped off at the Extension Office.

For more information on how to help sponsor a child for Christmas, call the Extension office at 965-5236.

Area death

Benetta Mae Roudebush, 81, of Salem died Sunday at CrittendenHospital. Services are Thursday at Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem.

Area deaths

Euell Kenneth Guess, 76, of Fredonia died Wednesday, Nov. 28. Services are Tuesday at Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem.

Janice Walton, 65, of Salem died Sunday. Services are Wednesday at Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem.

Area deaths

Mildred L. Croft, 88, of Lola died Tuesday. Services are today at Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem.

Lula June McKinley, 74, of Marion died Thursday. Services are Sunday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion.

Duke Energy studying Lola's breeze for wind farm

Duke Energy is studying the wind speed and collecting other data from a test tower between Hampton and Lola in Livingston County. There's a chance the company might put up to 100 windmills in that area. 

See this week's Crittenden Press printed edition for details. Issues will be on newsstands today after 3 p.m.

Police need help finding Salem woman

UPDATE: State police say that Croft has been found. They say she had been involved in a single-vehicle accident that left her car in a deep ditch.

Mildred L. Croft

The Kentucky State Police are asking for the public’s help in locating 88-year-old Mildred L. Croft of Salem. 

Croft has not been seen since 6:30 p.m., Monday. She is described as a white female, with white hair, and blue eyes, standing 5foot-3 and weighs approximately 133 pounds. 

Croft left her residence driving a blue 2002 Mercury Sable with Kentucky registration plate 074-ELD. It is unknown where Croft was heading to, and it is unusual for her to be driving at night.

Car similar to one she was driving.

If anyone locates or has information concerning MS. Croft, please contact the Kentucky State Police at 1-800-222-5555.

2-year-old with local ties dies in Eddyville accident

Kentucky State Police conducted a death investigation Friday in Eddyville when a two-year-old boy fell from a skid steer and was fatally injured. Police received a 911 call at 12:35 p.m., advising that the child had been severely injured and was being transported to the Caldwell Medical Center’s emergency room by a private vehicle.

The child, Charles Bobinsky IV of Eddyville had been riding with his grandfather, Charles Bobinsky, 52, of Eddyville, who was operating a skid steer loader on his private property.  The child fell off the skid steer and received a massive head injury, state police said in a news relesae. The child died at the Caldwell hospital. The boy has relatives in Crittenden County, including his father Jason Mullinix.

The investigation is continuing by Master Trooper Chris Anderson. 

Area deaths

Michael “Mickey” Kindred, 66, of Smithland died Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2012 at Vanderbilt University Hospital Palliative Center following a prolonged illness. Services are Friday at the Potter’s House Baptist Worship Center in Smithland. Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem was in charge of arrangements.

Imogene Brantley, 90, of Marion died Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012 at Crittenden County Health and Rehab.  She was a member of Rosebud Methodist Church. Services are Saturday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion.

UPDATE on Wednesday's fatal accident

Kentucky State Police say 23-year-old Thomas A. Sanders of Marion was driving an S-10 pickup when he crossed the center line and hit head-on a Pontiac LaSabre driven by Kenneth Euell Guess, 76, of Fredonia Wednesday about 3 p.m., on U.S. 641 at the Marion City Limit.

Guess was pronounced dead at the scene by the Crittenden County coroner. 

A news release from state police says Sanders was northbound as he rounded a curve and crossed the center line, striking Guess' vehicle. Both vehicles came to rest in the southbound lane – the car was partially in the side ditch.

Guess' wife, who was a passenger, 76-year-old Hazel D. Guess, was flown from the scene to Deaconess Hospital in Evansville.

Sanders was flown from the scene to St. Mary’s Hospital in Evansville.

Both Euell Guess and Hazel Guess were wearing seatbelts. Sanders was not wearing a seatbelt. 

The investigation by Trooper Darron Holliman is continuing. 

The highway was closed for several hours following the accident.

U.S. 641 closed at city limit for fatal wreck

There has been a fatal accident on the south edge of town. U.S. 641 is closed just south of Industrial Park Drive where a head-on collision between a small pickup and a passenger car has left one person dead. Two others are being taken to regional hospitals by air ambulance. No other details were immediately available. The highway will likely be closed for at least an hour. The accident happened just as school was letting out, but it does not appear the victims were part of school traffic.

Light wintry mix visits Crittenden County

A band of light sleet moved across a number of western Kentucky counties overnight.

Crews were called out to treat scattered slick spots, mainly on bridges.

Crittenden County received some light mixed precipitation and a highway department truck treated roads, mainly in the northern part of the county.

Fatal accident this morning in Livingston

UPDATE: The driver has been identified as Cynthia L. Felts, 51, of Paducah.  Felts was the only person in the vehicle at the time of the collision.

Kentucky State Police are investigating a single-vehicle fatality that occurred early this morning on U.S. 60 between Ledbetter and Smithland in Livingston County.

A preliminary investigation shows a 2009 Honda Accent was traveling west on US 60 two miles east of Ledbetter when it ran off the right side of the roadway for an unknown reason. The vehicle traveled approximately 200 feet off the roadway overturning and striking a utility pole.  

The driver of the vehicle was ejected and was pronounced dead on the scene by the Livingston County coroner. The name of the driver is being withheld until next of kin is notified. The driver was not wearing a seatbelt and speed is believed to be a contributing factor in the collision.

Trooper Chris Smith is continuing the investigation.   Trooper Smith was assisted on the scene by the Livingston County EMS, Livingston County Coroner’s Office, and the Ledbetter Fire Department.

Area deaths

Jimmy Ray Stinnett, 70, of Dycusburg died Saturday, Nov. 24, 2012, at his home.

Services are Tuesday at Lakeland Funeral Home Chapel in Eddyville.

Carlisle Towery, 92, of Marion died Sunday. Details of his arrangements were not immediately available. Towery was a military veteran and a former professional basketball player.

Phillip Eugene Faulkner, 74, of Salem died Friday at Livingston Hospital. Services are Tuesday at Boyd Funeral Directors.

Area death

Cynthia Ann Walker, 54, of Marion died Thursday at University of Louisville Hospital in Louisville.
Services are Sunday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion.

Local man dies in Illinois auto accident

Shane Travis, 25, of Dycusburg died as result of injuries suffered in a head-on collision yesterday morning on Route 1 in southern Illinois.

According to reports from news outlets in Illinois, Travis' car veered across the center line for unknown reasons and hit a fuel tanker truck. The tanker truck driver was taken to the hospital. Travis was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to reports.

More information is available at this link, http://www.disclosurenewsonline.com/2012/11/20/route-1-closed-after-fatal-accident/

Police searching for stolen bikes, scooter

Marion police are looking for a white pickup truck that was apparently involved in the theft of four bicycles and a scooter from a Main Street residence this morning.

Police Chief Ray O'Neal said thee children's bikes and scooter were outside their residence near the old car wash across from Conrad's. One of the children saw a white pickup, possibly a four-wheel drive, stop outside. The occupants loaded the bikes and scooter and took off.

Anyone with information can call Marion Police Department at 965-3500.

Area death

Ruby Lee Phillips, 77, of Marion died Friday at her home.  Services are Sunday at Gilbert Funeral Home.

Area death

Arville Ray Collins, 60, of Marion died Wednesday, Nov. 14 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Evansville, Ind.
Services are Saturday at Myers Funeral Home.

Nursing home gets stay on termination

The federal organization that was going to lift the Medicare and Medicaid certification for Crittenden Health and Rehabilitation Center has rescinded its termination order, which would have gone into effect next week.

Nursing home officials tell The Press that an on-site inspection this week has abated the immediate jeopardy; however, long-term remediation is necessary. See next week's Crittenden Press for details.

An article about the issue appeared on the front page of this week's weekly newspaper.

Area death

Zelona Mae Belt, 92, of Marion died Sunday. Services are Wednesday at Freedom Church.

Area deaths

Audie Faye Brown, 67, of Marion died Wednesday at her home. Services are Saturday at Gilbert Funeral Home.

Peggy Allen Ralff, 62, of Marion died Tuesday at St. Mary's Medical Center in Evansville. Services are Saturday at Gilbert Funeral Home.

Sports photos available online

Want to have high-quality photographs of your favorite Rocket football player? Check out the photo link on the top of this page. Pictures from this year's football season, along with many other local sporting and civic events, are posted and available for purchase.

Louisville man injured in Rosebud wreck

A Louisville man was injured in a single-vehicle accident at Rosebud Hill on U.S. 60 East this morning about 10 a.m. John K. Elliott, 58, was extricated from his vehicle by the Crittenden County Rescue Squad and taken by ambulance to Crittenden Hospital with multiple injuries.

Bechler winner of 4th House race

Bechler with wife Kathy at his celebration Tuesday
night in Marion.

Republican Lynn Bechler of Marion has won the race for Kentucky 4th District House.

Bechler captured 57 percent of the vote districtwide and won every precinct in Crittenden County.

He defeated Democrat Raymond Giannini of Princeton.

See this week's printed edition of The Crittenden Press for a complete general election wrap up, including detailed voter totals from every precinct in the county.

2012 General Election Results: Crittenden County

GENERAL ELECTION 2012 -- ALL PRECINCTS REPORTING

ELECTION RETURNS  CRITTENDEN

U.S. PRESIDENT

Mitt Romney / Paul Ryan - R 2839

Barack Obama / Joe Biden - D 960

Jill Stein / Cheri Honkala - GRN 16

Randall A. Terry / Missy Smith - IND 14

Gary Johnson / James Gray - LIB 25

U.S. REPRESENTATIVE - DISTRICT 1

Ed Whitfield - R 2878

Charles Kendall Hatchett - D 902

KENTUCKY HOUSE DISTRICT 4

Lynn Bechler - R 2505

Raymond W. Giannini - D 1291

COMMONWEALTH ATTORNEY

Zac Greenwell - D 2782

CIRCUIT COURT CLERK

Melissa Guill 3220

BOARD OF EDUCATION - DISTRICT 1

Bill Asbridge 603

BOARD OF EDUCATION - DISTRICT 3

Chris Cook 332

BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 4

Pam Collins 386

MARION CITY COUNCIL

Don Arflack 734

Dwight Sherer 752

Greg West 659

Jared Byford 724

Michael Byford 730

Frank Pierce 701

AMENDMENT - Hunting Rights

Yes 3185

No 238

Area death

Rev. David Eugene Winders, 81, of Marion died Monday at Crittenden Hospital. Services are Thursday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion.

Area death

Virginia Lois “Ginny” Threlkeld, 49, of Marion died Friday, Nov. 2, 2012 at her home.  Services are Tuesday, at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion.

Schools issue Rachel's challenge on bullying

In an effort to educate students, parents and the community on the subject of bullying, Crittenden County School District has organized a variety of events to teach students the importance of respecting their peers.

Parents and guardians of middle school students were recently asked to join students in taking a pledge on the Kentucky Safe Schools website on the subject of bullying.  School officials believe student behaviors can be modified if children see their parents or guardians actively participate and take a stand against bullying.

Middle School Guidance Counselor Robyn Taylor said parent involvement is vital to help reinforce the idea to respect one’s peers.

“I challenge them to take the pledge as well.  That way we’re all working together.  The schools can’t do it alone.  It takes a village.  And these kids need that,” Taylor said.

Taylor said the school works to build strong relationships with each student and believes good communication is the key to reducing instances of bullying.

“Dr. Yarbrough has sat down with our students in a circle on the gym floor and talked with them about bullying.  What bullying is and how to report bullying,” Taylor said.  “We’ve talked about bullying in so many different ways.  You have to build these relationships with the kids so they will come and talk to you about things.”

School officials also urge parents to become aware of cyber bullying.  Cyber bullying, or on-line harassment or threatening, can occur online via email, chat rooms or social networking sites.

To better inform parents, students and community members about the subject of bullying, the school district has planned a special anti-bullying program next week that will be held at each school and at Rocket Arena as a community event.

Rachel’s Challenge is a program that provides strategies that help both students and adults combat bullying.  The program is based on the writings of Rachel Scott, one of the first students killed at Columbine High School.  Rachel’s Challenge will be held Nov. 5 at the elementary and middle school and Nov. 7 at the high school.  A community event will also be held Nov. 7 at Rocket Arena at 6 p.m.  Parents and community members are encouraged to attend.

Holly White is the community educator for Crittenden County schools.  She said Rachel’s Challenge teaches compassion as a catalyst.  It uses the tragedy at Columbine High School to teach about making a difference in the lives of others by doing the little things that can start a chain reaction of kindness and compassion. The Rachel's Challenge team will challenge every person to eliminate prejudice and guard their influences by setting big goals for their life.

"It is important to expose our students and our community to proactive strategies to help us to be more compassionate and caring toward others. It takes everyone working together and doing little things to make this world a better place. I know that even as an adult, I may have a rough day and not be as nice and polite to people as I should be. I have to remind myself that every action has reactions and the little things can change a person's life," White said.  

Area deaths

Mary Alice Sigler 99, of Marion died Oct. 28, 2012 at her home. Sevices are Thursday at Gilbert Funeral Home.

Stella Joice Templeton Newsome, 56, of Marion died Sunday at Crittenden Hospital. Services are Friday at Gilbert Funeral Home.

Mircides Melvaleen Rayburn, 89, of Smithland died Friday at Western Baptist Hospital. Services are Thursday at Myers Funeral Home in Marion.

Relay kicks off with free chili Thursday

Crittenden County Relay for Life's annual Kick Off event is at 6 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 1 at Marion Baptist Family Life Center.

Chili will be served at no charge.  This event is open to the public and all teams and survivors are encouraged to attend.  Vonda Todd, a cancer survivor, will be the featured speaker.

Area deaths

Crawford “Jack” Lanham, 76, of Marion died Saturday at his home. Graveside services are Monday at Mapleview Cemetery.

Shirley Jean Conrad, 79, of Marion died Saturday at Crittenden Hospital. Services are Monday at Myers Funeral Home.

Area deaths

Marilyn “Mickey” Shewmaker, 65, of Marion died Thursday at Lourdes Hospital in Paducah. She was of the Baptist faith. Graveside services are Saturday at Love Cemetery in Marion. Gilbert Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

David Allen Perrin, 55, of Salem died Monday, Oct. 22, 2012 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Evansville, Ind. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Myers Funeral Home in Marion was in charge of arrangements.

Donna Cheryl Millikan, 67, of Marion died Sunday, Oct. 14, 2012 at her home. Graveside funeral services were Oct. 17 at the Asbridge Cemetery in Crittenden County. Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem was in charge of arrangements.

Semi crash slows traffic on 91

There is a semi wreck on Ky. 91 near Crider. At 7 a.m., traffic was moving on one lane but recovery efforts are expected to close the road temporarily at some point this morning. Stay tuned for updates.

Sent from my iPhone

Accident on U.S. 60 sends 2 to hospital

Two people were taken to the hospital this morning following a three-vehicle accident in Mattoon that also involved a pedestrian.

It appeared that a motorist driving an SUV side-swiped an empty log truck, then hit a state-owned pickup parked on the side of the highway. The state vehicle was there because inmates were nearby clearing brush from a guardrail.

A deputy jailer working for the Crittenden County Detention Center was standing on the side of the highway and was injured. That man and a woman driving the SUV were both taken to the hospital. It did not appear either had life-threatening injuries, but both were put onto stretchers and taken by ambulance to Crittenden Hospital.

CCES wants Watch DOGS with pizza today

MEN WANTED: Are you interested in volunteering your time mentoring students and providing added safeguards for elementary age children? If so, Crittenden Elementary School wants to tell you more about a program it's starting called Watch DOGS. The program is aimed at attracting men to serve as positive role models for students during the school day.

CCES is offering free pizza for anyone who wants to come and learn more about the program today (Wednesday) at 5:30 at the school. This program is for fathers of students, uncles, grandfathers, retired teachers, or just any male figure with the time and interest in children.

For more information, contact Principal Melissa Tabor at CCES.

Health seminar tonight at Ed-Tech Center

There will be a free Health Seminar tonight (Tuesday) at Marion Ed-Tech Center. Local healthcare professionals will be discussing non-medical healthier living options. The event is from 6 to 8 p.m.

Sirens tested at noon today

Local officials plan on testing early-warning storm sirens each today at noon.

After today, testing will be done each Friday at the same time.

During a real emergency, a long tone will alert residents to serious weather. The sirens will be activated during the following circumstances:

• A tornado warning has been issued for Marion or Crittenden County by the National Weather Service in Paducah.
• When a public safety officer such as police, fire or EMS reports sighting a funnel cloud or tornado.
• When a trained Sky Warn Spotter sights a tornado.

Area death

Charline Haney Ford, 83, of Marion died Wednesday at Crittenden Hospital.
Services are Sunday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion.

District judge injured in fall from treestand

UPDATE: Heady's surgery went well, according to his office.

District Judge Daniel Heady was injured in deer hunting accident Wednesday in Webster County. An avid outdoorsman, Heady fell 18 feet from a deer stand that broke away from the tree while he was hunting. He was able to call for help from his cell phone.

PHI air ambulance evacuated Heady from the scene and took him to an Evansville hospital where he was to undergo surgery today for a serious back injury.

Heady was on the bench in Marion Wednesday morning for the regular weekly district court docket.

Boy who inspired thousands dies of cancer

Lane Goodwin

Lane Goodwin, the McLean County teen who inspired many with his "Thumbs Up for Lane" campaign, has died.
 
The 13-year old Calhoun, Ky., boy had been battling a rare form of cancer. His mother said on the family Facebook page that her son died Wednesday.
 
Lane received support from all over the world when word of the campaign spread on the Internet. 

Livingston not issuing licenses tomorrow

Livingston County Circuit Clerk's office will be getting new computers and driver's license cameras installed on Friday. That work means the office will be unable to issue driver's licenses on that day.  Other operations of the Circuit Clerk's office will not be affected and the office will be open all day Friday. The office expects to resume licensing services on Monday. 

Power outage affects schools, hospital

UPDATE 2: Power has now been restored to almost everyone, including CCES. KU still says about five customers will be without electricity until 2:30 p.m.

UPDATE: Power has been restored to some areas, however, KU says 431 customers are still without electricity, including the elementary school. Students were fed sandwiches for lunch. School officials anticipate that the lights will be back on at CCES by noon.

A widespread power outage on the southwest side of Marion this morning has affected homes, businesses, schools and the hospital.

The hospital is operating, however, on a back-up generator.

It appears there is a transformer or substation issue on Chapel Hill Road in Marion. Kentucky Utilities crews are on site working on the problem.

KU says about 1,372 customers are currently without power. The company estimates that electricity will be restored by 11 a.m.

Thursday last chance for Community Christmas

Thursday is the last day to sign up for Community Christmas. Individuals may register at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Greenwood Heights from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Community Christmas organizers say they saw lower turn out than expected on the first registration day earlier this month.

“We have always had our largest number to sign-up on the first day. We would like to think not as many people are needing assistance but we’re afraid for whatever reason households just didn’t sign up on the first day,” said Nancy Hunt, one of the program coordinators.

Individuals wishing to participate in Community Christmas need to bring proof of income for everyone living in their household.  Residents are considered part of a household if they receive mail at that address.  Parents are encouraged to bring wish lists for children 12 and under. The wish lists will be attached to their application.
Wish list items should not exceed $50. Anyone having questions about their income eligibility can call the PACS office at 965-4763.  

Area death

Kathleen Reed, 76, of Marion, Kentucky died Friday at Salem Springklake Heath and Rehabilitation Center. Services are Tuesday at Myers Funeral Home.

SBDM meeting notice

The Crittenden County High School SBDM will meet at 3:30 p.m., Monday in the CCHS teachers conference room.

Victory Garden ends harvest season

The Crittenden County Victory Garden is finished for 2012. There will be no more community vegetable giveaways for this growing season. 

"We have already plowed an additional 12 gardens which will bring our total gardens to 28 for next year," said Robbie Kirk, one of the men spearheading the effort. 

Kirk hopes more churches take part next year with plans to have daily giveaways. 

Pumpkin Festival Schedule: This weekend

TODAY
11 a.m.- 3 p.m. Carnival rides at Farmers Bank parking lot
Carnival Food Available, Farmers Bank parking lot

3 p.m.- 6 p.m. Crittenden County Pumpkin Festival Photography Contest

 Enter at the Woman’s Club of Marion Building.

FRIDAY
All Day Carnival rides & food at Farmers Bank parking lot
All Day Vintage Tractor Show, West Carlisle Street and on vacant lot south of Farmers Bank
Morning Health Fair by Crittenden Health Systems on West Carlisle Street
6 p.m.-7 p.m. – Awards Reception for Photography Contest

SATURDAY
All Day Carnival rides & food at Farmers Bank parking lot
All Day Vintage Tractor Show West Carlisle Street and on vacant lot south of Farmers Bank
8:30 a.m. Fun Run for all ages at Marion Commons
9 a.m. Pet Show at stage area behind courthouse
9 a.m. Hay Maze and Duck Pond in front of Farm Bureau
9 a.m. Booth vendors open on court square
9 a.m. Pumpkin Art Contest at Crittenden County Library

9 a.m. – Photography Contest Exhibits Open for Viewing (Check-out 12-1)

Mid Morning Living Statues by Community Arts Foundation at courthouse
10 a.m. Kenergy electrical display beside of library
11 a.m., to 3 p.m. Top 50 car show at Darben Plaza

The Little Miss and Mr. Contest scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday has been cancelled due to low participation.

1 p.m., to 4 p.m. Band Cantegeus at stage area
1 p.m. What Sounds Good Bake Off upstairs at Main Street Italian Grill
1 p.m. Corn hole contest on West Carlisle Street
2 p.m. Dash for Cash on West Carlisle Street
3 p.m. Pedal Tractor Pull on West Carlisle Street

Obituary

T. Rankin Terry, 98, of Fort Myers, Fla., formerly of Marion died Tuesday. A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m., at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion Oct. 20 with a reception to follow at the Main Street Italian Grill. 

Group seeks vendors for Oct. 20 event

Area Death

Sandy Lynn Carter, 44, of Marion, died Monday, Oct. 8, 2012 at her home in Marion.

Services are scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 11 at Rose-Gilbert Funeral Home in Cave-In-Rock.

Area Death

Nellie Farley Qualls, 99, of Marion died Thursday, Oct. 4, 2012 at Crittenden County Hospital.

Services are scheduled for Saturday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion.

New Arrivals at Ann-Marin in Princeton

Leet, Clark are queen, king on soggy night

Crittenden County High School seniors Devin Clark and Alyssa Leet were crowned homecoming king and queen during coronation ceremonies prior to Friday night's 55th annual Rocket football homecoming game.

The pre-game ceremonies were conducted during a steady downpour as was the game.

Click here to read about the Rockets' disappointing loss to the Murray Tigers. Also, stay tuned for next week's printed edition of The Crittenden Press for complete coverage of homecoming week.

Homecoming festivities continue this week

Crittenden County High School continues football homecoming festivities this week with the annual parade at 5 p.m., Thursday on Main Street.

The annual powder puff football game will be played immediately following the parade at Rocket Stadium.

The football game Friday against Murray will begin at 7:30 p.m., with coronation of a queen before kickoff.

Pictured are Taylor Champion and Cody Caraway in a race against the clock during the annual Banana Split Eating Contest at Dairy Queen Tuesday night.

Freddie Cowan going in Union County Wall of Fame

Union County Public Schools Wall of Fame will induct former University of Kentucky basketball player Freddie Cowan during a ceremony Friday at Morganfield.

Cowan, who graduated from Union County High School in 1977, played for the Wildcats' 1978 national championship team. He was drafted by the Houston Rockets, but chose to play professionally in Japan.

Brenda Cowan, a 1981 Union County graduate, will also be inducted. She died in 2004 in the line of duty while working for the Lexington Fire Department.

Crash at Tradewater Bridge near Sullivan

A tractor-trailer crash at the Union and Crittenden County line could create some traffic problems this afternoon. Right now, state transportation officials say traffic is moving, but at some point the road will be temporarily closed while the semi is recovered. The wreck is near the Tradewater River Bridge near Sullivan.

Junior Pro football cancelled this evening

Due to rain and wet fields, Junior Pro football practice for fifth- and sixth-graders and third-grade B-team is cancelled today. Fourth-grade A-team will watch film as previously scheduled.

Area Death

James Harley Rose, 87, of Cave-In-Rock died Friday at Mt. Vernon Health Care Center. 

Services are scheduled for Sunday at Rose-Gilbert Funeral Home in Cave-in-Rock with interment in Cave Hill Cemetery. 

No Victory Garden work today

Due to weather there will be no Victory Garden harvesting nor distribution this morning.

Tiline man charged in Livingston investigation

Livingston County Sheriff's Department has charged Jonathan D. Starczewski, 46,  of Tiline with one count of felony third-degree sodomy and two counts of felony first-degree sexual abuse as the result of an investigation conducted by Deputy Kenneth Vincent.

Starczewski is charged having sexual contact with a female under 15 years of age and one female under 14.

Starczewski was arrested at his residence yesterday and lodged in the McCracken County Jail.

Ledbetter bridge down to one lane tomorrow

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet plans to restrict traffic to one lane on the U.S. 60 Tennessee River Bridge between Paducah and Ledbetter.

The lane restriction is to allow a walk-through inspection on the bridge deck.

Motorists can expect to encounter one-lane traffic with alternating flow controlled by flaggers between about 8:30 a.m., and 1 p.m.

Motorists are reminded that the US 60 Tennessee River Bridge continues to have a strictly enforced 3-ton load limit and a 35-mile-per-hour speed limit with an enhanced police presence.

Students raising money Wednesday at DQ

On Wednesday night, bring the coupon below to Marion Dairy Queen to help local students raise money for their freshman and junior trip to Washington, D.C.

Area Death

Jerald Allen Penn, 52, of Marion died Sunday at his home. Services are Thursday at Gilbert Funeral Home.

School board meets at CCES library

Crittenden County Board of Education will meet at 6 p.m., Tuesday at Crittenden Elementary School's library.

School board meets at CCES library

Crittenden County Board of Education will meet at 6 p.m., Tuesday at Crittenden Elementary School's library.

School board meets at CCES library

Crittenden County Board of Education will meet at 6 p.m., Tuesday at Crittenden Elementary School's library.

School board meets at CCES library

Crittenden County Board of Education will meet at 6 p.m., Tuesday at Crittenden Elementary School's library.

Nominations sought for Distinguished Alumni

Local education leaders are looking for nominees for the 2013 class of Crittenden County Schools Distinguished Alumni Awards, which will be presented before graduation in the spring. Both living and posthumous awards can be given.

Nominations may be made through Oct. 15, and selections will be determined by educational, professional and communities service accomplishments. The five-member selection panel will announce the honorees later this winter.

Anyone may nominate an individual. Recipients of the award must have graduated high school from a Crittenden County school. Applications are available online on the school district's website at www.crittenden.k12.ky.us or you may download the PDF by this link.

Past honorees have included authors, legislators, educators, research specialists, historians, geologists and scientists. 

Any nominee not inducted will be considered by the committee for three years after the initial nomination is submitted. They will not need to be renominated until after that three years is up.

Area death

Mary Lois Wicker, 88, of Marion died Wednesday at Livingston Hospital. Services are Sunday at Myers Funeral Home.

Area Death

Charlotte Ann Maness, 69, of Marion, died Wednesday Sept. 19 at St. Mary Hospital in Evansville.

Services are scheduled for  Saturday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion.

Area Death

John Earl Crider Sr., 71, of Greenville, died Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2012. Services will be Friday, Sept. 21. Gary's Funeral Home of Greenville is in charge of arrangements.

Water boil advisory

UPDATE: The boil water advisory has been lifted by the Crittenden-Livingston Water District.

The Crittenden-Livingston Water District has issued a water boil advisory along U.S. 60 West, from Moore Hill to address 1201 U.S. 60 West. The advisory includes residents of Claylick Road. The district said the advisory will stay in place until tomorrow, but could not give a specific time. Only 50 customers are affected by the advisory.

New developments in Invensys expansion

There are some new developments in Invensys' plans to expand its wayside division. The Marion manufacturing facility may have a good chance to keeping 50 new jobs the company is expected to create in the coming months. The jobs were originally slated to go to Lyon County.

See today's Crittenden Press printed edition for details. The newspaper will be on sale after 3  p.m.

Junior pro football cancelled tonight

There will be no Crittenden County Junior Pro football practice tonight due to wet fields and forecast of more rain.

Area Death

 Rosa Nell Hillyard, 84, of Marion, died September 15, 2012 at Lourdes Hospital in Paducah.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, Sept. 18 Myers Funeral Home in Marion.

Authorities need help locating missing woman

UPADTE: The missing woman was found unharmed early Sunday morning walking along U.S. 60 West.

Local authorities need the community's help locating a missing special needs woman who was last seen Saturday morning at 9 a.m., on West Elm Street in Marion.

Katherine Stokes, 27, of Marion was last seen wearing black shorts and white shirt with Special Olympics printed on the front.

Stokes is 5-foot-7, 180 pounds with dark hair and she wears glasses.

Authorities say Stokes had an argument with her mother then disappeared. She is believed to have been on foot initially, but law enforcement has searched the neighborhood and knocked on doors in the area without any luck finding her.

If you see her, call Marion Police Department at 965-3500.

Rocket football kickoff at 7:30 tonight

There has been some confusion this year because some games start earlier. This one kicks off at 7:30 and it's Young Rockets Nights. Players and cheerleaders in flag football, junior pro and middle school can wear jerseys and get in free.

State police find 22 pounds of pot in Princeton

Kentucky State Police have arrested a Princeton man, who they say had 22 pounds of marijuana in his home on North Cave Street.

The KSP Drug Enforcement/Special Investigations (DESI) West Branch was conducting an investigation of illegal drug activity when they made contact with Charles M. Dequintin Jr., 32. Officers seized the pot and drug paraphernalia inside the residence. They also found four pot plants being grown inside the house. 

Dequintin was lodged in the Caldwell County Jail and charged with felony trafficking, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Area Death

Terry W. Baker, 66, of Marion died Thursday at Crittenden Hospital. He was an Air Force Veteran.

Private services will be held at a later date.

Area death : Update on services

Virginia Sivells Hunt, 90, of Marion died Thursday. Services will be at 2:30 Sunday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion.

Turkey leg sale tomorrow; Order today

Click Here to Place an Order By Email

Click Here to Place an Order By Email

U.S. 60 one lane in Union County for 2 weeks

A contractor for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet plans to restrict traffic to one lane on U.S. 60 in Union County Thursday.

This work zone is to allow milling and asphalt paving from the Ky. 2019 intersection eastward to the Union-Henderson Line.

Motorists should be prepared to encounter one lane traffic with alternating flow controlled by flaggers during daylight hours. Appropriate caution is required where equipment, flaggers and construction personnel are on the roadway in close proximity to traffic flow.

Rogers Group is the prime contractor on this $1.4 million highway project.  Work in this area is expected to take about two weeks to complete, weather permitting.