Retired optometrist Dr. Mathis dies

Dr. Howard Winston Mathis, 71, of Salem died Dec. 30, 2013 at his home. He was a Marion optometrist for 40 years. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Friday. Visitation is 5 to 7 pm Thursday at Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem.

Fredonia Valley Heritage Society meets Thursday

The Fredonia Valley Heritage Society will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday at the First Baptist Church Life Center Cafeteria on Cassidy Avenue in Fredonia.  The program will be presented by Pam Faughn about the life and art of life long Fredonia resident, John F. Rice, and the historical stories discovered in conducting research for the society’s newest book.

There will also be a business meeting and refreshments.   

The Fredonia Valley Heritage Society is for anyone interested in learning more about the heritage and history of the Fredonia Valley and for those who want to see the history of our community preserved for future generations.

The society’s newest publication entitled “In Pursuit of Art: The Talent of John F. Rice” is still available for sale. It is a unique hardback book full of over 335 wonderful pieces of art in full color with historical descriptions.

Rice was born in the Fredonia Valley in 1882 and lived there until his death in 1960. He followed his love of art to France several times to study the discipline. During one stay, he served as correspondent for the European edition of the Chicago Tribune.

If you are interested in purchasing a copy of this book, you may contact Pam Faughn at pamfaughn@att.net or by phone at (270) 545-3215. To have the book mailed, send $40 plus $6 for mailing cost together with your name, address and phone number to Fredonia Valley Heritage Society, P.O. Box 256, Fredonia, KY 42411.      

Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Fredonia Valley Heritage Society is encouraged to attend the meeting Thursday.

Coach Hodge and MVP Chelsea Oliver at Orlando

Lady Rockets beat Fairport Harbor (OH) to finish 2-1 in holiday tournament at ESPN World Wide Sports Complex.

Area death

Betty Jo Davidson Coleman, 82, formerly of Salem, Marion and Morganfield, died Dec. 25, 2013, at Palm Valley Rehabilitation Center in Goodyear, Ariz. Whitsell Funeral Home in Morganfield is handling arrangements.

State police seek Livingston fugitive

Kentucky State Police Post 1 in Mayfield is currently seeking a fugitive from justice. 

Herbert Wilford Smith, 37, of Smithland is wanted for numerous felony offenses. He is described as a white male, standing approximately 6 feet tall, and weighing 150-plus pounds with black hair and brown eyes. 

Smith was indicted by a Livingston County grand jury in 2012 for theft by failure to make required disposition of property. In 2013, after failing to appear in court numerous times, he was indicted by another Livingston County grand jury for bail jumping. He currently has active warrants for his arrest, with bond amounts exceeding $25,000. He is also wanted for questioning in other reported crimes that have occurred in other portions of the Post 1 district, namely Graves and Calloway counties.

KSP is requesting assistance from the public in locating Smith. It is believed that he may have initially fled to the state of Florida; however, it is unknown if he is back in the western Kentucky area.

If anyone knows the whereabouts of this fugitive, they are asked to contact KSP at (800) 222-5555 or they make contact the Livingston County Sheriff’s Department at (270) 928-2122.

Area death

Ronald Keith Singleton, 72, of Lola died Dec. 29, 2013, at his home. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is in charge of arrangements.

Lady Rockets win at ESPN Center

Follow the team in its holiday tournament at this link:
The Rocket Blog

Area death

Gerald Louis "Jerry" Mills, 64, of Benton, formerly of Marion, died Dec. 25, 2013, at his home. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Tiline man jailed on two separate charges

A Livingston County man is being held on charges in two unrelated cases.

According to Livingston County Sheriff's Department, Phillip Rayburn, 29, of Tiline has been charged with the June theft of a set of keys belonging to Tinsley's Dairy King, a Smithland restaurant. Rayburn has also been charged with criminal mischief tied to a Nov. 2 incident in which all four tires were slashed on a vehicle parked at a residence on Riverview Drive in Ledbetter.

Both charges are misdemeanor offenses and both cases were investigated by Deputy Irvin Davis.

Rayburn is lodged in the McCracken County Jail.

No Press this week

There will be no new issue of The Crittenden Press this week. The next edition will be available Jan. 2.

Area deaths

Jack Hall, 88, of Marion died Dec. 23, 2013, at Crittenden County Health and Rehab in Marion. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Naomi Patton Ward, 91, a native of Crittenden County, died Dec. 23, 2013. Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem is handling arrangements.

Fallen boulder shuts Blackburn Church Road

A boulder the size of a small house came crashing down onto Blackburn Church
Road over the weekend, completely blocking the roadway. The road will be closed
for several weeks while crews work on removal of the rock.

Blackburn Church Road in rural eastern Crittenden County will be closed for several weeks due to a boulder blocking the road.

Over the weekend, several hundred tons of rock fell from the side of a bluff, crashing into the roadway and creating an obstruction to through-traffic just past Travis Cemetery Road about four miles off Ky. 120. The sandstone rock caused several thousand dollars of damage to the roadway, creating a divot several feet deep in the road bed.

Crittenden County Judge-Executive Perry Newcom said removal will likely cost thousands of dollars and should begin sometime after Christmas. The county is investigating use of a jackhammer attachment on a trackhoe to break up the rock.

Local WMA featured in Louisville C-J

Gary Garth, outdoors writer for the Louisville Courier-Journal, has featured the new Big Rivers Wildlife Management Area in Crittenden and Union counties in today's newspaper article.

Read it by clicking here: http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20131221/SPORTS09/312210070/Outdoors-Big-Rivers-Wildlife-Management-Area-will-provide-area-rich-deer-turkey?nclick_check=1

Rockets 2-0 in Fifth District play this season

Denis Hodge's Rocket basketball team is off to a hot start in Fifth District play... Listen to podcast and see stats at the Rocket Hoops Blog:

http://cchsrocketbasketball.blogspot.com/2013/12/rockets-beat-livingston-in-overtime.html

KSP gathers 62 tons of food for needy

Kentucky State Police Commissioner Rodney Brewer announced this week that the agency’s 'Cram the Cruiser' food drive netted 62 tons of food statewide.

Post 2 in Madisonville, which serves Crittenden County, gathered 3 tons of food and monetary donations that were used to purchase additional, non-perishable food items. The food was then transported to local agencies which help those in need in the Post 2 District.

Brewer initiated the program in 2010 to assist needy families in Kentucky. Since that time, the agency has contributed more than 150 tons of food to shelters, food banks and churches across the Commonwealth.

"The Kentucky State Police continue to maintain the traditions of service that our agency was founded on over 65 years ago,” says Brewer. “Helping those in need is a fundamental part of our mission throughout rural Kentucky."

Crittenden County Christmas novella available from noted author of Amish book series

By JASON TRAVIS
THE CRITTENDEN PRESS
Noted author Shelley Shepard Gray has a Christmas present for fans of her "Secrets of Crittenden County" trilogy with the publication of "Peace: A Crittenden County Christmas Novella."

However, those new to the series might want to read the initial trilogy before reading the holiday novel, as characters and plot lines from those novels are mentioned in "Peace."

"'Peace' definitely goes with the 'Secrets of Crittenden County' trilogy that was published last year," Gray said. "I usually publish a Christmas novella to go with the previous year's series in order to let readers know what happens to some favorite characters."

For "Peace," Gray said there were story lines that many of her readers were anxious to learn more about, including that of Jacob and Deborah Schrock. The main storyline in "Peace" focuses on Chris Ellis and Beth Byler, two secondary characters in "The Search," one of the books from the Crittenden County trilogy. Gray described it as a Christmas romance that was a lot of fun to write.

Gray's books fall in the suspense-romantic genre. She said she first learned about Crittenden County when she was searching for a setting for a series.

"When I Googled 'Kentucky Amish,' a photo of Crittenden County popped up," she said. "I was immediately drawn to the photos, and soon, my husband and I drove five hours to visit. When we visited, it was pouring down rain and the creek was rising. That's when I knew I wanted to write a trilogy that had a good bit of both romance and mystery."

During a book signing last year, Gray hinted about the possibility of publishing a holiday book set in Crittenden County.

"Even though I certainly fictionalized the area, I tried my best to convey the beauty of the area," she said. "I've now been to Marion three times. I think it's beautiful."

Next year will be a busy year for Gray, as she'll have six novels published. They will include the "Return to Sugarcreek" trilogy, which begins with "Hopeful" on Feb. 4, followed by "Thankful" in May and, finally, "Joyful" in August. Next year's Christmas novella is entitled "Snowfall," which will revisit the Keim family and the "Days of Redemption" series.

"I'll also be publishing a historical Amish novella, set at the end of the Civil War," Gray said. "Finally, Zondervan will be publishing 'Secrets of Sloane House,' which is a single-title novel set during the 1893 Chicago World's Fair."

"Peace: A Crittenden County Christmas Novella," released in October, is 256 pages and is available online from most major book sellers.

Area deaths

William Alex Meek Jr., 74, of La Vergne, Tenn., died Dec. 17, 2013. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Elvis Rushing, 51, of Eddyville died Dec. 19, 2013, at Lourdes Hospital in Chicago. Morgan's Funeral Home in Princeton is handling arrangements.

KSP CVE personnel file suit alleging wage discrimination

A group of more than 100 Kentucky State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement officers and supervisors filed a civil lawsuit in Franklin Circuit Court Monday claiming wage discrimination. Both KSP and Commissioner Rodney Brewer are named as defendants in the case. The lawsuit alleges that the officers are “compensated at a substantially lower rate of pay than Kentucky State Police troopers and cadets.”

For the full story, visit The State Journal online.

Flood watch issues; heavy rains expected

The National Weather Service in Paducah has issued a flood watch this weekend for all of western Kentucky and southern Illinois. The advisory is effective from tonight through Sunday morning.

Torrential rains are expected for the weekend, bringing 3 to 5 inches of precipitation to the area from today through early Sunday. The heaviest rains are expected from late tonight through late Saturday night. Ground conditions remain saturated from recent snow melt and past precipitation. Heavy rainfall will result in creeks and streams exceeding their banks. Roads that typically flood will do so and low-lying areas prone to flooding should also be expected to be under water.

"As we prepare for heavy rain through much of the weekend, Kentucky highway crews are asking motorists to start thinking about some of the hazards they will encounter as they are out and about," reports Keith Todd, a spokesman for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. "Never underestimate the power of water, the condition of a flooded area or how fast water is flowing. These errors in judgment can be fatal."

More than half of all flood-related drownings occur when vehicles are driven into hazardous floodwaters. A flooded area with 6 inches of rushing water can knock a man off his feet and an area with as little as a foot of rushing water can sweep a vehicle off the roadway.

Area death

Donald Eugene Bunger Jr., 59, of Marion died Dec. 18, 2013, at Crittenden Hospital in Marion. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Single-vehicle accident south of Dycusburg

It does not appear that anyone is seriously hurt, but rescue squad personnel have been dispatched to the scene of a single-vehicle rollover accident near the Lyon-Crittenden County Line south of Dycusburg.

Fish and Wildlife revamps website

The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources invites visitors to explore its newly-redesigned website at fw.ky.gov.

The website features new applications that enhance navigation and functionality without sacrificing any of the valuable information users of the site have grown accustomed to having at their fingertips.

"We strove to create a more focused site that would be user-friendly and would allow hunters and anglers to find the information they were looking for quickly," said Donna Covington, information technology systems consultant with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. "We developed it using a responsive Web design so that no matter what platform they were viewing it on, whether it be a desktop computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone, it would be easy to read and navigate."

For the first time, visitors to the department's website have the ability to access their Kentucky Fish and Wildlife transactions, including license and permit history and telecheck information, through the "Find My Information" page. The database goes back to 1996.

Looking to get in touch with a conservation officer, conservation education program leader, fisheries biologist or wildlife biologist in a specific county? That information is just a few clicks away using the "Find My County Contact" feature. Search results are sorted by type and include the name, phone number and email address for each county contact.

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife staff partnered with contractor Kentucky Interactive to develop the new site, which is best viewed using the latest versions of web browsers like Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and Safari. The department's website has logged approximately 18 million web hits this year, Covington said.

As major search engines like Google, Bing and Yahoo index pages from the new website in the coming weeks, the search function will become fully functional. Bookmarks to pages on the previous website no longer will work.

Improvements to the new website will be ongoing, Covington said. Plans include the development of a more substantial online presence for public hunting areas by merging wildlife management information with public hunting information, giving visitors the ability to view that information in one place.

Pictures of Fohs Hall event sought

Fohs Hall Inc. is looking for pictures of programs or events staged at Fohs Hall throughout its time as a school and community center. Images of day-to-day life inside the school – teachers and students – are also welcomed. The photos will be used on a new website being built for Fohs Hall Inc., the organization charged with oversight of the building that will turn 88 years old this year.

Images can be e-mailed to Allison Evans at allison@the-press.com or brought by The Crittenden Press office at 125 E. Bellville St. in Marion. Photos will be promptly scanned and returned.

Updated school calendar

Click to enlarge

Area death

Allie "Kevin" Shuecraft, 52, of Marion died Dec. 17, 2013, at Baptist Health Paducah. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Nominations sought for Distinguished Alumni

Local education leaders are looking for nominees for the 2014 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 Dec. 30, 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.kyschools.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.

Community Christmas still in need

Community Christmas is still in need of sponsors for several children. The Angel Tree at the Farmers Bank main office in Marion has eight unsponsored children. The drop-off for toys is tomorrow at the National Guard Armory and distribution is Thursday.  Monetary donations are still being accepted at all Farmers Bank locations.

Area deaths

Shirley Joan Hackney, 76, of Marion died Dec. 16, 2013, at her home. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Linda Macha, 66, of Murray died Dec. 16, 2013, at Lourdes Hospital in Paducah. J.H. Churchill Funeral Home in Murray is handling arrangements.

Area death

Virginia Wathen, 91, of Livingston County died Dec. 16, 2013, at Salem Springlake Health and Rehabilitation Center in Salem. Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem is handling arrangements.

Circuit clerk's office closing for holidays

Crittenden County Circuit Clerk's office will be closed Dec. 24-28 in observance of Christmas. The office will reopen at 8 a.m. Dec. 30. The office will then be closed Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 for the New Year's holiday. The office will reopen at 8 a.m. Jan. 2.

Area deaths

Christine Williamson, 83, of Marion died Dec. 14, 2013, at Crittenden County Health and Rehabilitation Center in Marion. Myers Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Thomas Agent, 78, of Providence, a native of Crittenden County, died Dec. 13, 2013, at his residence. Barnett-Strother Funeral Home in Madisonville is handling arrangements.

Area deaths

James George, 81, of Salem died Dec. 13, 2013, at Rivers Bend Retirement Community in Kuttawa. Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem is handling arrangements.

Betty Lou Bradford, 80, of Marion died Dec. 12, 2013, at Crittenden County Health and Rehab in Marion. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Crittenden schools run full day Friday

Schools in Crittenden County will run on a regular schedule Friday. However, buses will operate on snow routes only.

Rocket reschedule Caldwell for tonight

Crittenden County has rescheduled a snow game with Caldwell County for tonight. Only the boys' team will be playing.

Crittenden was originally to play Caldwell Tuesday in a varsity boys and girls doubleheader.

Both teams play at Lyon County Friday.

PSC resets public input sessions in Big Rivers Rate case

The Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC)  has rescheduled sessions at which members of the public will be able to provide comments on a request by Big Rivers Electric Corp. to increase rates.

A public meeting will be held Monday evening in Henderson. A public comment session on Jan. 8, 2014, in Frankfort will be linked through video conference to sites in Owensboro, Paducah and Brandenburg.

The meeting and videoconference take the place of sessions originally scheduled for Dec. 10 that were postponed due to inclement weather.

The meeting in Henderson will begin with a presentation by PSC staff on the regulatory processes governing the case and an overview of the Big Rivers proposal. It will be followed by a public comment session with the members of the PSC.

The public comments will be recorded and will be available for viewing on the PSC website, psc.ky.gov.

The video conference in January will occur in conjunction with the evidentiary hearing in the case and will offer participants the opportunity to address the commission directly.

“We are sorry that we were unable to hold these public comment sessions as originally scheduled,” PSC Chairman David Armstrong said. “However, the PSC is committed to offering ratepayers an opportunity to learn about the PSC’s ratemaking process and to make their views known to the commission.”

Monday's meeting in Henderson will be held in the Stagg Meeting Room of the Henderson Fine Arts Center on the campus of Henderson Community College, 2660 S. Green St. The public information session will begin at 5 p.m., with public comments beginning no later than 6 p.m.

For those unable to attend the meeting, a narrated slide presentation will be available on the PSC’s YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/kypsc, on Wedensday.

The video conference public comment sessions on Jan. 8, 2014, will be held at 9 a.m. in Paducah and Owensboro. Locations will be announced at a later date.

Because Big Rivers provides power to an area extending from Meade County near Louisville to Ballard County on the Mississippi River, conducting simultaneous meetings by video conference is an efficient way to reach the entire service territory, Armstrong said.

Big Rivers supplies power to the retail customers of Jackson Purchase Energy Corp., Kenergy Corp., and Meade County Rural Electric Cooperative Corp., and is owned by the three distribution cooperatives. Together, the three cooperatives serve about 112,000 customers in 26 counties in western Kentucky. The customers include about 20 large industrial facilities.

Big Rivers is seeking approval to adjust rates early next year in order to increase annual revenue by $70.4 million. That amount is to partially offset the loss of about $175 million in annual revenue that will occur when the Century Aluminum Co. smelter in Sebree ceases to be a customer at the end of January. The Sebree smelter accounts for about half of Big Rivers’ power sales and total revenue.

The $70.4 million is needed for Big Rivers to maintain financial stability and meet its debt obligations, the utility says. Big Rivers says it intends to offset the remaining revenue loss by idling electric power generating facilities and taking other steps to adjust for the loss of the Sebree smelter as a customer.

In its application, Big Rivers estimates that the rate changes will increase typical monthly residential bills by about $25 or $30 per month, or about 21.5 percent. The amount of increase will vary with electric consumption and with which of Big Rivers’ three distribution cooperatives serves the customer. Large industrial customers would see rates go up about 25 percent, the utility says.

However, Big Rivers is proposing to defer the impact of the rate increases by drawing on reserve funds established several years ago to offset rising rates. The utility estimates that the funds would postpone the rate increase for large industrial customers until July 2014 and for residential and small commercial customers until April 2015.

The current case follows a similar proceeding that stemmed from the departure of what was formerly Big Rivers’ largest customer, the Century Aluminum smelter in Hawesville. The Hawesville smelter ceased to be a Big Rivers customer in August and began purchasing power at market-based rates under contract terms approved by the PSC.

An order approving a rate adjustment that accounted for the loss of the revenue from the Hawesville smelter was issued by the PSC Oct. 29. The PSC has granted rehearing on one issue in that proceeding.

Big Rivers and Kenergy have filed with the PSC a contract that sets out the terms under which Century’s Sebree smelter would purchase market-based power rather than from the utility. That contract requires review and approval by the PSC in a separate proceeding before it can take effect. It is being considered concurrently with the rate case.

The Big Rivers application, the proposed Sebree smelter contract and related documents are available on the PSC website. The rate case number is 2013-00199. The smelter contract case is 2013-00413.

In addition to the public meetings, the PSC will conduct a formal evidentiary hearing in the case beginning at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2014. The hearing, which is scheduled to last three days, will be held at the PSC offices at 211 Sower Blvd. in Frankfort. It will be open to the public and may be viewed live on the PSC website.

The hearing on the proposed contract for the Sebree smelter will be held Monday, Jan. 6, 2014.

Written comments will be accepted through the conclusion of an evidentiary hearing on Jan. 7, 2014. They may be mailed to the PSC at P.O. Box 615, Frankfort, KY 40602, faxed to (502) 564-9625, e-mailed from the PSC website or submitted in person at the public meetings or at the PSC offices.

Marion Christmas Parade back on

The 2013 Crittenden County Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade is back on. It has been rescheduled for this Saturday beginning at 2 p.m. along Main Street in Marion. Parade line-up is at noon.

Parking along Main Street will be prohibited between 1 and 3 p.m. Any vehicle remaining after 1 p.m. will be towed at the owner's expense.

Welcome Animal Practice to Press Online

The Animal Practice of Marion and Dr. Stephanie Call are among the newest partners at The Press Online.

Visit the clinic's Web site at http://www.animalpracticemarion.com.

Dems request recanvass in House race

UPDATE: 11:22 a.m. Dec. 12
After a recanvass of the votes, the tally remain unchanged.

- - - - -

According to The Associated Press, Democrats are seeking a recanvass in the 7th District House race in which a Republican has already claimed victory.

Republican Suzanne Miles of Owensboro had 3,568 votes, narrowly besting Morganfield Democrat Kim Humphrey's 3,436 votes in the race to the fill the seat once held by John Arnold, who resigned after allegations of sexual harassment.

The recanvass was requested by Humphrey.

No issue of The Press on Dec. 26

There will be no issue of The Crittenden Press on Dec. 26, so please be sure to have your long-range church notes, community calendar items and other announcements to our office by 5 p.m. Monday.

Crittenden schools on 2-hour delay Thursday

School in Crittenden County will operate on a two-hour delay again Thursday. School will start at 10 a.m. There will be no morning preschool, and breakfast is not served when schools are on a two-hour delay.

Buses will run on the same abbreviated snow route as Wednesday, which is as follows:

Bus Number • Driver • Route information
Bus 1403 • M. McConnell • Will pick up and deliver at the intersection of Ky. 654 and Mt Zion Church Road and Mattoon Store

Bus 066 • E. Fortune • Main roads County Wide Handicap where possible

Bus 0129 • C. Ladd • Will pick up and deliver at the Mattoon Store

Bus 0736 • D. Helms • Will pick up and deliver at the intersection of Marion Road and Ky. 855, Ky. 855 and U.S. 60, the Intersection of U.S. 60 and  Ky. 2132

Bus 9614 • J. Manley • Will pick up and deliver on Ky. 506 to Ky. 902 must meet the bus along Ky. 506

Bus 0130 • R. Orr • Will pick up and deliver along U.S. 60 East to Union County line

Bus 9916 • T. Ryan • Will pick up and deliver along Main Street

Bus 0426 • G. Damron • Will pick up and deliver along Ky. 297, Ky. 723 and Ky. 135 at Tolu. Students in Tolu will pick up and deliver at the Fire Station

Bus 0932 • C. Tyson • Will pick up and deliver AM and PM starting on Ky. 70 to the intersection of  Ky. 902, Ky. 902 to Ky. 855 back to Ky. 70

Bus 0527 • C. English • Will pick up and deliver along Ky. 120 from Marion to Shady Grove.

Bus 1111 • L. Schneckloth • In town where possible

Bus 1110 • T. Alexander • Will pick up and deliver along U.S. 60 West to Salem

Bus 0244 • R. Winders • Will pick up and deliver along Ky. 91 North, Ky. 135 to  Ky. 1668

Bus 9707 • T. Pennington • Will pick up and deliver along Ky. 120 and Depot Street

Bus 065 • H. Peek • Will pick up and deliver along Ky. 855, Ky. 70 and U.S. 641

Bus 0742 • L. Robinson • Will pick up and deliver along  Ky.. 723, Ky. 838 and Ky. 297

Bus 2019 • T. Fitzgerald • Town route only will not pick up on Freedom Church Road

Bus 0931 • E. Myrick • Will pick up and deliver along Ky. 91, town roads and Fords Ferry Road to The Church of God in Marion
                                                                            
Bus 0523 • L. Williamson • Will pick up and deliver along U.S. 641and Chapel Hill Rd

Bus 2018 • A. Starnes • Preschool//HeadStart town students only where possible

School board tweaks calendar to make up days

Crittenden County Board of Education has already started adjusting the school calendar in order to begin making up snow days. It is quite rare that school cancellations for snow start piling up prior to Christmas. Because students have missed three days over the past week, the board of education took a proactive step at its regular monthly meeting Tuesday, tweaking the school calendar over the next couple of months in order to make up the missed days.

Previously, students were going to get be out for Christmas starting Friday, Dec. 20 and then return to classes on Tuesday, Jan. 7. There was also a teacher planning day set for Monday, Feb. 17. Now, students will go to school on the following days that were previously set aside for the holiday vacation or the planning day:

School will be in session on these days:

• Friday, Dec. 20
• Monday, Jan. 6
• Monday, Feb. 17

Currently, the last day of school for students in Crittenden County is scheduled for May 14 if more days of school are not missed.

GOP picks up House seat

Republican Suzanne Miles of Owensboro has won a special election in Kentucky’s 7th House District.

Miles won by an unofficial 112 votes in her race against Democrat Kim Humphrey of Union County. The seat was formerly held by John Arnold of Sturgis, who resigned his seat among allegations of sexual harassment.

Democrats will have a 54-46 majority in the House when the Legislature convenes in January.

Students back to school... but later Wednesday

Crittenden County schools will be back in session Wednesday, but buses will run two hours later than normal and on an abbreviated "snow route." See snow route information below:



CRITTENDEN COUNTY  ALTERNATE BUS ROUTES                                                                                    

Bus Number, Driver's Name and Route information

Bus 1403      M. McConnell      Will pick up and deliver at the intersection of 654 and Mt Zion Church Road and Mattoon Store


Bus 066        E. Fortune              Main roads County Wide Handicap where possible


Bus 0129      C. Ladd                 Will pick up and deliver at the Mattoon Store


Bus 0736      D. Helms          .  Will pick up and deliver at the intersection of Marion Road and HWY 855, HWY 855 and HWY 60, the
                                                       Intersection of HWY 60 and  HWY 2132


Bus 9614      J. Manley             Will pick up and deliver on HWY 506 to HWY 902 must meet the bus along HWY 506


Bus 0130      R. Orr                    Will pick up and deliver along HWY 60 East to Union Co. line


Bus 9916      T. Ryan                 Will pick up and deliver along Main Street


Bus 0426      G. Damron           Will pick up and deliver along HWY 297, HWY 723 and HWY 135 at Tolu. Students in Tolu will pick up and
                                                        deliver at the Fire Station


Bus 0932     C. Tyson               Will pick up and deliver AM & PMstarting on HWY 70 to the intersection of  HWY 902, HWY 902
                                                        to HWY 855 back to HWY 70

Bus 0527     C. English               Will pick up and deliver along HWY 120 from Marion to Shady Grove.


Bus 1111     L. Schneckloth     In town where possible


Bus 1110     T. Alexander        Will pick up and deliver along HWY 60 West to Salem


Bus 0244     R. Winders           Will pick up and deliver along HWY. 91 North, Hwy. 135 to  Hwy. 1668

Bus 9707    T. Pennington       Will pick up and deliver along HWY 120 and Depot Street


Bus 065      H. Peek                   Will pick up and deliver along HWY 855, HWY 70 and HWY 641


Bus 0742    L. Robinson          Will pick up and deliver along  HWY. 723, Hwy. 838 and HWY 297


Bus 2019    T. Fitzgerald         Town route only will not pick up on Freedom Church Road


Bus 0931    E. Myrick             Will pick up and deliver along HWY 91, town roads and Fords Ferry road to The Church of God in Marion

                                                                                   
Bus 0523    L. Williamson      Will pick up and deliver along HWY 641and Chapel Hill Rd


Bus 2018    A. Starnes                 Preschool//HeadStart    town students only where possible

Blood drive cancelled

Today's blood drive at Crittenden County Health & Rehab has been cancelled.

Basketball games tonight are cancelled

The high school and middle school basketball games scheduled for tonight have been cancelled due to travel conditions.

No school Tuesday in Crittenden County

School in Crittenden County has been cancelled for Tuesday.

More in store for weekend than warmer temps

If you were disappointed Saturday's Christmas parade in Marion was cancelled due to the weather, you might find this weekend's forecast will bring more than warmer temperatures. See this week's issue of The Press for the full story.

No school in Livingston County

There will be no school in Livingston County Monday.

No school Monday in Crittenden

School officials have called off classes for Monday in Crittenden County.

CHS open house for surgical wing

Crittenden Health Systems this week will host an open house for its new surgical wing. The event will be from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Thursday. Visitors will be able to tour the facility and meet and talk with doctors and staff. It will also provide the community an opportunity to meet new CHS Chief Executive Officer Greg McNeil. Refreshments will be served.

Methodists will worship Sunday

Marion United Methodist Church will be worshipping as scheduled Sunday unless there is a significant weather event Saturday night or early Sunday.

Sunday School begins at 9:30 a.m., and worship is at 10:45. Everyone is welcome.

Winter weather advisory issued

A winter weather advisory from midnight tonight to 5 p.m. Sunday has been issued by the National Weather Service for Crittenden County. Light freezing rain or sleet is possible late tonight into Sunday morning.

State of emergency declared

Crittenden County Judge-Executive Perry Newcom today has declared a state of emergency in the county following Thursday and Friday's major accumulation of ice and snow. The declaration allows for a better response by local authorities to the needs of the community.

Church closings

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Area church closings

• Marion Second Baptist Church will not be having Sunday services. The Thanksgiving/Christmas Celebration will be postponed until Dec. 15.
• Marion Christian Church has cancelled services for Sunday. The next services will be Dec. 15. 
• Tolu United Methodist Church has cancelled Sunday services.
• Emmanuel Baptist Church has cancelled Sunday services.
• Frances Presbyterian Church has cancelled Sunday services.
• Marion First Cumberland Presbyterian Church has cancelled all services for this Sunday.
• Fredonia Cumberland Presbyterian Church has cancelled Sunday services.
• Miracle Word Church in Salem will cancel services Sunday.
• Mexico Baptist has cancelled Sunday services.

Send us your church closing to be listed here on our website. E-mail us your closing announcement to thepress@the-press.com.

Blood drive held Tuesday in Marion

Baptist Health Madisonville Blood Bank will be having a blood drive from 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesday at Crittenden County Health and Rehab.

Library closed Saturday

Crittenden County Public Library will be closed Saturday.

KyTC working around the clock

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet plans for overnight are to scale down snow-clearing operations after about 9 p.m. due to cold temperatures. Each county in the District 1 area, which includes Crittenden County, will keep a couple of trucks on active duty to respond to trouble spots. Crews will go back to full staffing and operation at 6 a.m. Saturday.

Truck blocking U.S. 60 East

There is a 2-ton truck stuck in the middle of Rosebud Curve on U.S. 60 east of Marion blocking traffic. Law enforcement is on its way to direct traffic.

Governor orders remembrance of Pearl Harbor

Gov. Steve Beshear has directed that flags at all state office buildings be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday in observance of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

This is in memory of and to honor the 2,400 Americans who died in the surprise attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet’s Pearl Harbor base in the early-morning hours of Dec. 7, 1941.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt declared Dec. 7, 1941, “a day which will live in infamy” and signed the Declaration of War against Japan the following day, Dec. 8, 72 years ago.

Gov. Beshear encourages individuals, businesses, organizations and government agencies to join in this tribute.

Marion City Hall closes early

Marion City Hall has closed today due to the deteriorating weather.

Band concert features holiday music

Enjoy the sounds of the holiday season with a concert performed by the Crittenden County School bands. The holiday band concert will feature sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade jazz and high school bands which will perform music from the Christmas season. The concert will begin at 7 p.m. next Thursday at the Crittenden County High School multipurpose room.

Got snowmen?

By 1:30 p.m. Friday, snowfall in Marion was very heavy, making driving difficult;
however, a thick blanket of snow should lead to lots of snowmen around the county.

If your family or neighbors are out building snowmen (or snow forts) over the next couple of days, send us your photos. They might appear in The Crittenden Press. E-mail us your photos to thepress@the-press.com or post them on this Facebook page.

People Bank adjusts weather-related closing

Due to deteriorating weather conditions, The Peoples Bank in Marion will be closing its main office at 1 p.m. today. The drive-thru location closed at noon and will also be closed Saturday.

Day care closed due to weather

Tiny Tot Child Care is closed today due to the weather.

No power outages reported

There are no power outages reported in Crittenden County, according to both Kentucky Utilities Co. and Kenergy Corp. In fact, west of Elizabethtown, Ky., KU reports no power outages. Kenergy reports only one, at a grain bin.

Road conditions deteriorating

According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, road conditions across western Kentucky are deteriorating rather quickly. Most roads are slush-covered and Interstate 24 is under an ice advisory.

Farmers Bank closing until Monday

Due to severe weather conditions, all offices of Farmers Bank & Trust Co. in Marion and Salem will close at noon today and will reopen on Monday.

Clerk's office closing early

Crittenden County Clerk's office will close at 11 a.m. today due to the weather.

Marion City Hall open this morning

Marion City Hall is open this morning. However, City Administrator Mark Bryant said there is a chance city hall could close early due to the weather. Keeping checking back for updates.

Most courthouse offices open

Crittenden County Circuit Clerk's office is closed today due to the inclement weather. All other courthouse offices are open this morning; however, some may close early if the weather continues to deteriorate. Keep visiting The Press Online or our Facebook page for updates.

As a reminder, all courthouse offices were already slated to be closed on Saturday.

Saturday book-signing cancelled

Saturday's book signing with local author Tom McKenney at Crittenden County Public Library has been cancelled due to the weather. McKenney said the event will be rescheduled for the spring.

Peoples Bank closing early

The Peoples Bank will be closing the drive-thru office at noon today and the main office at 3 p.m. due to weather conditions.

Senior center closed today

Crittenden County Senior Citizens Center is closed today due to the weather.

Weather closes library

Crittenden County Public Library is closed today due to the weather.

Board of education meets Tuesday

Crittenden County Board of Education meets for its monthly meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday at Rocket Arena.

KyTC provided update

From the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet...At this hour, we've had no reports of specific traffic issues in spite of a glaze appearing in trees at some locations.  Radar indicates most of the frozen precipitation is remaining just to the north of the Ohio River.   Pavement temperatures have remained above freezing due to the warm weather over the last few days. 

We continue to urge motorists to avoid overnight travel due to freezing rain and sleet in the forecast.

Driving conditions are expected to deteriorate as freezing rain is expected to transition to sleet and then to snow overnight.

Motorists are asked to carefully monitor area news media outlets and the National Weather Service for regular updates as the winter weather event moves through.

State road crews ready for weather

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet highway crews are geared up and ready to roll as soon as freezing precipitation moves southward across the Ohio River into Kentucky.

The District 1 Snow and Ice Team will have at least one truck available to roll out to treat bridges and overpasses through the evening hours as required.  As the freezing precipitation moves across the river into Kentucky highway crews are prepared to ramp up activities very quickly to respond to a full assault by Mother Nature.

All area highway crews have snow plows mounted and salt spreaders loaded and ready to roll.

Highway officials say there is residual heat in the pavement from warm weather the last few days that will initially help melt the frozen precipitation as it falls.  Today, pavement temperatures were hovering around 50 degrees Fahrenheit.  However, sometime around 9 to 10 p.m., tonight, they expect colder temperatures to sap that heat.  When that temperature shift occurs, there is a potential for roadways to become hazardous fairly quickly.

Their best advice is to avoid unnecessary travel overnight.  Crews will be making a big push during the hours between Midnight and daylight to spread as much salt as needed to keep roadways cleared, but ice creates a unique set of challenges for both highway crews and the driving public.

Motorists are asked to carefully monitor area news media outlets and the National Weather Service for regular updates as the winter weather event moves through

No school in Livingston Friday

There will be no school Friday in Livingston County.

PACS transportation cancelled

There will be no transportation or home meal delivery Friday through PACS and the Crittenden County Senior Citizens Center.

Preparations made as winter storm nears

By 3 p.m., the temperature in Marion had dropped to just above the freezing mark
as a winter storm approached western Kentucky.

By DARYL K. TABOR
THE CRITTENDEN PRESS
The temperature is dropping and Old Man Winter is on his way with the first significant winter weather of the season.

A winter storm warning for most of western Kentucky, including Crittenden County, is in effect from 6 p.m. today until 6 p.m. Friday. The system is expected to bring a significant accumulation of ice, sleet and snow.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service are pretty certain of their predictions, with precipitation chances at 100 percent overnight. Exactly how much accumulation and what type of precipitation that means for Crittenden County remains to be seen.

But local officials are cautiously optimistic about this storm.

"The best comparison I've heard is that this will be a distant cousin to 2009," said Crittenden County Emergency Management Deputy Director Fred Brown, who has sat in on meetings with National Weather Service forecasters over the last couple of days as the storm developed.

In 2009, of course, a massive ice storm blanked much of Kentucky, leaving hundreds of thousands without power for extended periods of time and making travel difficult. Power was out for as long as two weeks in Crittenden County.

This weather system is not expected to touch the 2009 event, though it could create havoc on roadways and lead to widespread power outages. Utility crews with Kenergy Corp. and Kentucky Utilities Co. are on standby, awaiting what the storm has to offer.

Brown said Crittenden County Courthouse has been designated as a warming center for those who may lose heat at their homes. The courthouse basement will remain open throughout the event for anyone needing refuge from the storm and its effects.

Should the power go out at the courthouse, those taking cover there will be moved to the emergency operations center on Industrial Drive. The EOC has a backup generator to keep the lights on and the facility heated.

The warming center plans are a solution to short-term power outages. Should the power be out for an extended period across a wide range of the county, a shelter would then be open. But Brown said that decision will come later.

"Opening a shelter is a big deal," he said.

During 2009, the elementary school and some churches were used as shelters, keeping people warm and fed.

After that disaster, officials are taking nothing for granted.

"It's obviously concerning," Marion City Administrator Mark Bryant said. "We need to be prepared for some issues, that's for sure."

Taking precautions, Crittenden County Board of Education has cancelled school for Friday and all school-related events through Sunday. Saturday's Christmas parade in Marion has also been cancelled, as well as a number of other community events.

Today, road crews with the state, county and city are prepared for the worst on the roads. Trucks are equipped with snow plows, salt for treating the roadways is at hand and crews are on standby, waiting to see what develops overnight as the storm system enters the region.

"All the equipment is gassed up and ready to go," Bryant said this afternoon of the city's preparedness.

Bryant said crews will not be pretreating the 39-miles of city streets with a brine solution but instead will be on standby awaiting what develops. Today's rains have prevented road crews across the state from pretreating roads, as the water would simply wash away the solution used on pavement prior to wintry precipitation in order to reduce freezing temperatures on roads.

When clearing becomes necessary, city street crews will focus on major city thoroughfares like Fords Ferry Road, Chapel Hill Road, Industrial Drive and Country Club Drive, as well as major intersections. State crews in Crittenden County will first address federal highways like U.S. 60 and U.S. 641, then focus on state highways. Country crews have almost 400 miles of roadways to care for.

Temperatures that yesterday topped out in the 70s had dropped to the freezing mark by 4 p.m. today. After discussions with National Weather Service authorities, Brown expects the worst to begin hitting around 8 or 9 p.m. tonight. He said emergency management officials will remain in touch with the weather service and monitor the changing conditions in order to address issues as they arise.

"We've just got to play it by ear," Brown said.

As the wintry weather is imminent, local police are advising people to use common sense.

"If you don't need to be out, don't get out," said Marion Police Chief Ray O'Neal.

Crittenden County Sheriff Wayne Agent said he and deputies are on standby, ready to respond if they are need in rural parts of the county. O'Neal's department will have watch over events inside the city.

"I feel good about things," O'Neal said, evoking memories of 2009. "People seem to be a little better prepared than last time."

Both the sheriff's and police departments are equipped with four-wheel drive vehicles to respond to emergencies.

The police chief is asking people not report power outages to 911 dispatch. Instead, they should be reported to the respective utility company of the individual reporting an outage. For KU customers, that number is (800) 981-0600. Kenergy customers should report outages at (800) 844-4832.

Wrecks should, however, be reported to dispatch, either by calling 911 or the non-emergency number, 965-3500.

Scott Tabor, owner of Tabor's Towing and Repair in Marion, also urges people to call the dispatch center first, as law enforcement is the quickest means to ensure help arrives to a stranded motorist.

Because there could be a backlog of calls for wrecker service, Tabor said it could be a matter of hours before some vehicles could be reached. That's why he, too, is urging people to stay put when the roads begin to freeze unless getting out is completely unavoidable.

"There's no sense in risking injury or damage to a vehicle unless you have to be out," he said.

Tabor estimates that during winter weather events, more than half of the calls he makes is to pull in the vehicles of people who didn't have to be out on the road.

If you need help

• Power outages: Kenergy (800) 844-4832; KU (800) 981-0600
• Police or fire emergencies: 911
• Wrecks: 911 or 965-3500

No little league hoops this weekend

Little League basketball for Saturday morning is cancelled do to forecast of bad weather.

Area death

Mary L. Gross, 83, of Fredonia died Dec. 5, 2013, at Baptist Health of Paducah. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Crittenden schools cancelled for Friday

Due to the winter storm predicted to hit western Kentucky with ice and snow beginning early this evening, school has been cancelled in Crittenden County for Friday.

Schools will not be let out early today; however, all school-related events after 3 p.m. today have been cancelled through Sunday.

Kenergy prepares for severe winter weather

Kenergy Corp. officials hope to have very few power outages with the vegetation management and numerous improvements and upgrades made to its distribution system over the course of the year.

"Our operations department works hard to keep our right-of-ways clear and continues to relocate lines out of fields and closer to the roads," said David Hamilton, vice president of member services. "We also continue to phase out our old copper lines by replacing them with new aluminum lines; however, ice and snow effects on power lines can be very unpredictable."

Kenergy customers needing to report an outage should call the 24-hour number at (800) 844-4832. Customers should use their new 10-digit account number, if requested. If your previous account number began with an 8 or 7, you must delete the first and last digits.

"We will keep you abreast of the situation to the best of our abilities," Hamilton said.

Kenergy officials ask customers to be prepared to spend 72 hours without electricity. 

"If you need medical devices that run on electricity, buy a generator or make arrangements in advance for an alternative place to stay during a severe outage," Hamilton advised.

For more information on how to prepare for severe weather, visit Kenergy's "First 72 is on You" information page at http://tinyurl.com/kthyedm.

Area death

Mike Hamilton, 46, of Marion died Dec. 3, 2013, at the Caldwell Medical Center in Princeton. Myers Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

CCMS Arts Extravaganza postponed

Due to possible bad weather next week, Crittenden County Middle School has decided to postpone its Arts Extravaganza slated for Tuesday night. It has not yet been rescheduled.

NWS: 100 percent chance of snow, sleet

THE GLEANER
A weather event likely bringing sleet, snow and ice is expected to hit western Kentucky.

The National Weather Service in Paducah has issued a winter storm warning kicking off this evening with the beginning of the system.

The NWS said, “significant accumulations of ice, sleet and snow will likely result in treacherous driving conditions Thursday night and Friday. In addition, some isolated power outages will be possible where freezing rain is most prevalent which appears to be across (eestern) Kentucky.”

Officials with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KyTC) said the rain coming in before the wintry mix will prevent crews from pretreating the roads.

“We expected an impact on transportation starting sometime around dark on Thursday,” according to Keith Todd, public information officer with the KyTC.

Thursday’s high temperature looks to be around 48 degrees. There’s a 70 percent chance of rain this afternoon and a 90 percent chance of a wintry mix tonight as the temperatures fall to around 30 degrees.

Weather forecasters are calling for a 100 percent chance of sleet and snow on Friday with the high temperature reaching 32 degrees. The low temperature Friday night is expected to plummet to 12 degrees.

The sun will make an appearance Saturday, but conditions are anticipated to remain frigid with a maximum temperature of 26 degrees. The low Saturday night could fall to 21 degrees.

On Sunday, the area could see more sleet and snow.

The weather service said that rain, freezing rain and sleet “are likely.” The high temperature Sunday could reach 33 degrees, and drop again Monday.

LBL closing due to incement weather

Due to inclement weather moving into the region, Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area will close all facilities by 5 p.m. today. All visitors will be asked to leave, including campers in backcountry areas.

Closed facilities and activities include:

• Administrative Offices.
• Backcountry and Self-Service Camping.
• Brandon Spring Group Center.
• Golden Pond Planetarium and Observatory.
• Golden Pond Target Range.
• Golden Pond Visitor Center.
• Trails and Scenic Roadways.
• Turkey Bay OHV Area.
• Wranglers Campground.

According to Tina Tilley, Area Supervisor at Land Between The Lakes, “The safest decision is to close Land Between The Lakes due to hazardous road conditions with freezing rain, sleet, snow, and freezing temperatures predicted for our area. When conditions allow, we will reopen.”

For updated information, check the LBL website: www.lbl.org. Alerts & Notices Page, follow LBL on Twitter @LBLScreechOwl or @LandBtwnLakes, or check with local media.

Master Commissioner property sale postponed

The Master Commissioner Property Sale set for Friday at the Crittenden County Courthouse has been postponed due to the threat of bad weather.

PSC cancels Big Rivers case hearing

The Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) has cancelled a public meeting scheduled for Tuesday in Henderson, as well as associated videoconferences at sites in Owensboro, Paducah and Brandenburg.

The meetings were for the purpose of providing information and taking public comment on a proposal by Big Rivers Electric Corp. for an increase in rates to partially offset the loss of revenue that will occur when the Century Aluminum Co. smelter in Sebree ceases to be a customer at the end of January.

“With snow, ice and bitter cold forecast through the middle of next week, the commissioners felt that cancelling the meetings was the prudent course of action,” PSC Chairman David Armstrong said. “Our first concern is not to imperil the safety or health of anyone travelling to the meetings.”

Armstrong said that the PSC staff is working to reschedule information and public comment sessions. Those will be announced next week, Armstrong said.

“We certainly intend to offer ample opportunities for public comment in this proceeding,” he said, noting that anyone wishing to express an opinion may always submit written comments to the PSC.

Written comments may be mailed to the PSC at P.O. Box 615, Frankfort, KY 40602, faxed to (502) 564-9625, e-mailed from the PSC website or submitted in person at the PSC offices at 211 Sower Blvd. in Frankfort.

The Big Rivers application and related documents are available on the PSC website. The case number is 2013-00199.

The PSC is an independent agency attached for administrative purposes to the Energy and Environment Cabinet. It regulates more than 1,500 gas, water, sewer, electric and telecommunication utilities operating in Kentucky and has approximately 90 employees.

EZ-ACCESS expanding in Morganfield

Gov. Steve Beshear today announced EZ-ACCESS, a manufacturer of portable and modular ramp systems, will expand its operations in Union County. The company is adding manufacturing production lines with the expectation of creating 15 new jobs and investing an estimated $330,000 in the Commonwealth.

“Growing companies are successful companies, and we are delighted that EZ-ACCESS is growing in Union County,” said Gov. Beshear. “Their success is further proof that manufacturers enjoy excellent results in Kentucky. The Commonwealth’s partnership with EZ-ACCESS demonstrates the quality of our workforce, as well as the advantages which come with such an ideal location to do business.”

EZ-ACCESS provides premier home access and commercial access solutions through a variety of portable mobility ramps, commercial mobility ramps and mobility accessories. The company established its Morganfield facility in 2007 as a result of increased national sales. The new lines will produce assembly parts and subcomponents for mobility access ramps and other mobility access solutions.

Beekeeping meeting cancelled

Tonight' beekeeping meeting at the University of Kentucky Livingston County Cooperative Extension Service office in Smithland has been cancelled due to the impending winter storm.

No driver testing in Marion on Friday

Due to the forecast of bad weather, driver's license testing – both written and driving – have been cancelled for Friday in Marion.

MPD cramming cruiser with toys

Marion Police Department, in cooperation with Cash Express, will have its annual holiday Fill-a-Cruiser program on Tuesday at the Cash Express parking lot at 103 Morningside Drive. Officers are accepting toys that will be given to children in the community. Their goal is to completely fill a police cruiser, in this case, the department's Humvee. Toys, coats or canned foods can be donated by dropping them off at Cash Express until Dec. 15.

Winter storm warning issued

The National Weather Service in Paducah has issued a winter storm warning for western Kentucky, including Crittenden County, effective from 6 p.m. Thursday to 6 p.m. Friday.

Freezing rain and sleet will overspread the area early Thursday evening with precipitation transitioning to sleet and snow overnight. The precipitation will come to an end as snow from west to east Friday afternoon. Ice accumulations up to a half-inch will be possible mainly Thursday night.

Once temperatures drop below freezing Thursday evening, the mercury is not expected to rise above 34 degrees through Dec. 12. More freezing precipitation is anticipated for Sunday.

KSP offers winter driving tips

Western Kentuckians are being dealt a wintry forecast for later this week. Kentucky State Police are asking motorists to be aware that weather conditions may change rapidly over tonight (Thursday) and into Friday.

“Winter weather provides new challenges and responsibilities to the public and the Kentucky State Police,” said KSP spokesman Sgt. Michael Webb.

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

KSP reports that slippery roads were the contributing factor in 12,034 crashes and 72 fatalities in 2012.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, arctic air will spread across the region today and into Friday. As the front passes, wintry precipitation will be generated. Freezing rain and sleet are expected initially, with the possibility of snow into Friday. The heaviest accumulation is anticipated in western Kentucky. Moderate accumulations of icy precipitation are predicted.
KSP offers 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.
• Slow down.
• Always wear your seat belt.
• Leave early, allowing more travel time, and expect delays.
• Increase the following distance between vehicles.
• Clear all windows on your vehicle prior to travel.
• Turn on your vehicle’s headlamps.
• Use caution on bridges and overpasses as they are susceptible to freezing before roadways.
• Avoid using cruise control.
• 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 your travel is interrupted, someone will know.

'Sniper' book signing still on

Despite a wintry weather forecast, Saturday's book signing at Crittenden County Public Library is still on. Local author Tom McKenney will be on hand from 10 a.m. to noon to sign copies of the book "The Sniper Anthology: Snipers of the Second World War II."

Lunch with Santa cancelled

The Lions Club Lunch with Santa on Saturday at Marion Baptist Church has been cancelled due to the forecast for wintry weather. The event will be rescheduled. Check back for a date.

Courthouse offices closed Saturday

All courthouse offices will be closed Saturday. This includes the office of circuit clerk, county clerk and sheriff.

State snow, ice crews prep for wintry mix

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 1 snow and ice team is carefully monitoring a winter weather event that is expected to hit the 12 westernmost counties of Kentucky with a winter mix of precipitation on Thursday and Friday.

Area highway crews have stocked up on brine to prepare to pretreat roadways, if possible. At this point, it appears rain will move in before the winter precipitation hits. That prohibits pretreating because the rain would wash away any benefits.

The snow and ice team will continue to monitor the weather forecast. If the chance of rain diminishes crews will be prepared to pre-treat. Otherwise, crews are continuing their regular maintenance activities. In between other duties, operators will be checking their equipment to assure they are prepared for whatever arrives at our doorstep later in the week. Back in late-October, operators made test runs along their assigned routes with snow plows and salt spreaders mounted on their trucks.

Motorists are asked to carefully monitor area news media outlets for updates as this winter weather event approaches.

KyTC has established snow and ice priority routes for each county. Maps showing the snow removal priority routes are available at http://go.usa.gov/gmDe. In the initial hours of a winter weather event, crews focus much of their attention on “A” snow and ice priority routes such as interstates, parkways and federal highways. As conditions improve on major transportation routes, crews move to “B” routes which are generally connector routes, then move to “C” routes which are generally rural secondary highways.

Timely traffic advisories for the 12 counties of KyTC Highway District 1 are available by going to www.facebook.com/kytcdistrict1. You do not have to be a Facebook member to access this page.

'Scrooge' play rescheduled due to weather

This weekend's play at Fohs Hall, "Scrooge in Bethlehem," has been rescheduled for a later date due to an impending winter storm forecast to arrive Thursday night with a significant accumulation of wintry precipitation expected.

New dates for the play will be Dec. 13 and 15. The times will remain the same, 7 p.m. and 3 p.m., respectively.

The musical production incorporates the Nativity with the Dickens classic "A Christmas Carol."

Saturday's Christmas parade cancelled

According to Crittenden County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Susan Alexander, weather experts, Crittenden County Emergency Management and local law enforcement have advised the Chamber to cancel Saturday's Christmas parade due to a forecast winter storm arriving Thursday night. Once the weather arrives, temperatures are not expected to rise above the freezing mark until mid-Sunday, when more wintry precipitation is expected.

As of right now, there are no plans to reschedule the parade.

Keep checking The Press Online and our Facebook page for cancellations and rescheduled events related to the impending weather.

Accident on US 60E

Emergency response personnel are at the scene of an automobile accident on U.S. 60 East near the Crittenden-Union line. Although an ambulance crew was dispatched to the scene, it does not appear that the victim(s) have sustained life-threatening injuries.

School custodian, referee Hamilton dies

Mike Hamilton, a Crittenden County School District custodian and sports referee, passed away in Eddyville earlier tonight while officiating a basketball game.

Hamilton had called the first game of a middle school boys' doubleheader between Lyon and Caldwell counties. In the second game, he left the court and went into the locker room where he later died of an apparent heart attack.

Hamilton was the head umpire for youth baseball and softball games at Marion-Crittenden County Park and had for several years officiated various other school and youth sporting events in western Kentucky.

Food Giant circulars not in Bird

Local consumers who did not receive Food Giant inserts in this week's Early Bird may pick up a copy of the current sales flyer at the Marion Food Giant or at The Crittenden Press office. A delivery issue with the grocer's printing company prevented the weekly inserts from being included in the Early Bird this week. We apologize for any inconvenience this causes for local consumers.

Area death

Donald E. Ryan, 77, of Portage, Ind., a native of Crittenden County, died Dec. 1, 2013, at his home. Reese Funeral Home in Portage is handling arrangements.

Circuit clerk's office closed Wednesday

Crittenden County Circuit Clerk's office will be closed Wednesday.

Area death

Phillip Conger Jr., 85, of Earlington, Ky., formerly of Mexico, died Nov. 28, 2013 at Baptist Health Madisonville. Morgan's Funeral Home in Princeton is handling arrangements.

Area deaths

L. Dwayne Croft, 80, of Marion died Dec. 1, 2013, at his home. Myers Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

H.F. Simpson, 82, of Marion died Dec. 1, 2013, at Baptist Health Madisonville. Myers Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

U.S. Senate candidate in Marion Monday

Matt Bevin, a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate, will be in Marion Monday at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church on West Bellville Street. Bevin will be at the church's fellowship hall from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Area deaths

J.D. Hackney, 71, of Marion died Nov. 29, 2013, at his home in Marion. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Maranda Sue “Mandy” Robinson-Nichols, 41, of Marion died Nov. 29, 2013 at her home in Marion. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Judith A. Roach, 73, of St. Augustine, Fla., formerly of Marion, died in Florida. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.