Sunday, November 30, 2014

Area death

Belva Ann Carter Newcom, 63, of Elizabethtown, Ky., died Nov. 28, 2014, at Hardin Memorial Hospital in Elizabethtown. Myers Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Friday, November 28, 2014

Today! It starts at Conrad's!

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Area deaths

Paul Ray Holloman Jr., 56, of Kuttawa died Nov. 27, 2014, at his home. Gilbert Funeral in Marion is handling arrangements.

Edward Bruce "Eddie" Wheeler Jr., 66, of Marion died Nov. 27, 2014, at Crittenden County Health and Rehab in Marion. Gilbert Funeral in Marion is handling arrangements.

Etta Louise McConnell, 86, of Marion died Nov. 26, 2014k at Crittenden County Health and Rehab in Marion. Gilbert Funeral in Marion is handling arrangements.

Old Ledbetter Bridge demolition continues Monday

The demolition contractor on the old Ledbetter Bridge has halted efforts to top Pier C until Monday.

The in-water pier closest to the McCracken County shoreline of the Tennessee River was pulled over Tuesday. The demolition crew moved to rig the pier nearest the Livingston County shoreline with the hope of topping it Wednesday. However, the pier turned out to be more resilient than expected.

The contractor used an industrial-strength jackhammer mounted on an excavator in attempt to weaken the pier above the water line so it could be pulled over into a trench outside of the navigation channel.

The demolition crew made several unsuccessful attempts to pull over the 83 year old pier, today. As dark approached, engineers chose to halt the demolition work and wait to resume efforts Monday, following the Thanksgiving Holiday.

Once Pier C is topped, the contractor has tentative plans to use explosives to detonate the remaining portion of the two in-water piers around Dec. 4.

Holiday traffic enforcement continues

Just because Thanksgiving has passed doesn't mean police will be relaxing their highway patrols.

Thanksgiving is the most dangerous holiday of the year for motorists, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This includes the enetire four-day holiday driving period when heavy traffic, weather and long-distance road trips combine to create severe travel conditions. Often, family celebrations include alcohol, which later evolves into impaired driving. Add that to heavy holiday traffic and you have a recipe for disaster.

Last year, 10 fatal vehicle crashes across Kentucky claimed the lives of 11 people during the Thanksgiving travel period. One fatal crash involved alcohol and four fatalities resulted from not wearing a seat belt.

“The Thanksgiving holiday weekend is traditionally one of the most traveled weekends of the year," says Kentucky State Police Commissioner Rodney Brewer. "To ensure we all make it to our destinations safely, troopers will be on Kentucky roadways looking for unsafe driving practices including seat belt and impaired driving violations.”

"It's the simple, common sense things that can make a crucial difference such as wearing a seat belt, reducing your speed and avoiding driving after consuming alcohol or drugs," notes Brewer.

KSP will participate in the official 2014 Thanksgiving holiday enforcement period that extends through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday.

Citywide Leaf Collection Schedule


City residents are encouraged to participate in the town-wide leaf collection process. Residents should rake leaves to the curb, but not into the street, as the schedule dictates for their particular area of town. City workers will come by and collect the leaves according to this schedule, which is also printed in The Crittenden Press newspaper. Weather or other factors could prompt changes to this schedule so be aware of it weekly through November and December. CLICK HERE for a higher resolution PDF of the schedule, which can be printed.

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Happy Thanksgiving

The ownership and staff of The Crittenden Press would like to wish you and yours a very happy and safe Thanksgiving 2014 holiday.


Thanksgiving
For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food,
For love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.
    – Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Ky. highway crews monitoring chance of wintry precipitation overnight

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Snow and Ice Team is monitoring weather developments across the region this evening.

While there is some chance of flurries and possible light snow accumulation, mainly along Ohio River border counties, ambient air temps are expected to remain mostly above freezing. Additionally, roadway surface temperatures should be sufficient to melt the snow as it falls.

As a precaution, District 2 has treated some bridges in the northern portion of the district in areas most likely to get winter precipitation tonight.

Otherwise, management personnel will be monitoring road conditions and calling in crews, if required.

Motorists are advised to carefully monitor local road conditions and adjust driving speeds accordingly.

Fire destroys home in Salem

Firefighters help battle a house fire this afternoon in Salem.
A house fire on Mill Street in Salem appears to have heavily damaged a home and a nearby camper trailer early Wednesday afternoon. No one was home at the time the and no injuries have been reported, although a propane tank believed to be from the trailer exploded near firefighters. The fire was reported around noon. At present, firefighters are still on the scene and no cause has been determined.

Area death

Edward Gerald Floyd, 76, of Marion died Nov. 25, 2014, at Crittenden County Health and Rehabilitation Center in Marion. Myers Funeral Home in Marion is in charge of arrangements.

What's News in Marion...

Your holiday newspaper will arrive a day late in the mail this week because of the Thanksgiving holiday. Local subscribers will get the paper on Friday instead of Thursday. However, The Press printed edition will be on newsstands at the normal time today, available on racks this afternoon.

Here is a sampling of what's happening in the News this Week in Marion:
  • Recount is over in Rogers' judge race, but there's still room for an appeal
  • Wheeler fondly recalls adoptive life
  • Farming was soldier's mission in Greatest Generation
  • Ongoing Series: Threlkeld story ends sadly in Germany
  • Community Christmas Food Drive kicks off
  • Binkley presides over state meetings
  • Big Names: Excellence recognized at CCES
  • CCHS Basketball Preview Section
  • Deer season winds down
  • Junior Pros and soccer team dole out awards
Single copies of the newspaper are available at various groceries, drug stores and convenience stores around Marion and in Fredonia and Salem. You can also buy the newspaper at The Press office on East Bellville Street.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING !


Johnson's Black Friday Sale


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Tuesday, November 25, 2014

PVA office closing early Wednesday

Crittenden County Property Valuation Administrator Ronnie Heady's office will be closing at noon Wednesday in observance of the Thanksgiving Day holiday. The office will re-open on Dec. 1.

Area death

Lee Corley, 44, of Marion died Nov. 20, 2014, at Lourdes Hospital in Paducah. Lakeland Funeral Home in Eddyville was in charge of arrangements.


Dennis “Denny” James Maddox, 65, of Marion died Nov. 25, 2014. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Recount continues today in Webster

The three-day, three-county recount of votes in the family court judge's race between Brandi Hagan Rogers and Ben Leonard continues today in Webster County. Vote recounting yesterday in Crittenden netted no changes from the election night totals.

Rogers, a Marion attorney, won the election Nov. 4 by 50 votes. Leonard filed for a recount.

The recount will go to Union County tomorrow.

See this week's Crittenden Press printed edition for details and stay connected here for Wednesday's final word.

Monday, November 24, 2014

Alternate plan approved for demolition of old Ledbetter Bridge piers

A contractor for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KyTC) has gained approval for an alternate demolition plan for the remaining in-water piers at the Old Ledbetter Bridge site.

The contractor plans to excavate the river bottom outside the navigation channel and knock over the top half of the piers so they will fall into the excavated areas, according to KyTC District 1 Chief Engineer Mike McGregor.

“The natural silting process along the river bottom will then cover the piers, leaving them below the river bottom,” McGregor said.

When the last truss section over the Tennessee River main navigation channel was detonated Oct. 1, the blast rocked over the piers that held it up. The contractor had planned to drill the piers, place explosives and bring them down with a controlled detonation. However, cracks left in the piers raised safety questions about the drilling process.

“We believe this new plan will provide appropriate safety for workers and accomplish our goal of removing the piers from the waterway,” McGregor said.

In a letter outlining the alternate plan, Mark Hutchins with C.J. Mahan Construction Company indicated excavations could be completed this week with plans to pull over one of the piers today, followed by the second pier on Tuesday. Wednesday is a backup date in case of an unexpected delay.

“With all of this work being in the back channels we will not impede navigation traffic,” Hutchins said. “Drilling of the lower sections will start after the Thanksgiving holiday.”

Hutchins noted that once the top of each pier is removed, a date will be set for using explosives to remove the bottom half.

KyTC engineers and the company worked closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other agencies with jurisdiction over the project to gain approval for the alternate plan.

Meanwhile, the contractor has continued conventional demolition of the approach spans along the Livingston County end of the old Ledbetter Bridge and on the McCracken County shoreline.  All steel is down and the contractor is digging and pulling over the land-based piers.

The old Ledbetter Bridge went into service in 1931. In January 2012, it had to be restricted to a 3-ton load limit. Completion of the new U.S. 60 Tennessee River Bridge at Ledbetter was expedited and traffic flow moved to the new structure July 31, 2013. The old bridge was damaged by land slippage along the western shoreline of the Tennessee River in April prompting the demolition process to be expedited.

Community Thanksgiving Dinner Thursday


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Ferry reopens after wind dies down

UPDATE: The ferry has reopened as of 5:30 p.m.


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The Cave-In-Rock Ferry is closed due to high winds on the Ohio River.


The wind is blowing about 18 miles per hour at this time.  The forecast indicates winds will continue to gust from 19 to 25 miles per hour through much of the day.

Press closing for Thanksgiving

The office of The Crittenden Press will be closed Thursday and Friday in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Due to the closure, the advertising deadline for The Early Bird will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday.

Meantime, the newspaper will hit newsstands as usual Wednesday, but subscribers should expect delivery of The Crittenden Press a day late due to the postal holiday.

Sunday, November 23, 2014

Government offices closing for Thanksgiving

All city, county and state government offices will be closed Thursday and Friday in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Additionally, the courthouse offices of the county clerk, circuit court clerk and sheriff will be closing for the holiday beginning at noon Wednesday.

The University of Kentucky Crittenden County Cooperative Extension Service and Crittenden County Public Library will also be closed Thursday and Friday, as will Crittenden County Senior Citizens Center. The library will be open Saturday for its regular hours.

Meantime, federal offices, such as the post office, will be closed Thanksgiving Day only. In Marion, however, the post office will be closing at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday and noon on Friday.

Friday, November 21, 2014

City Leaf Collection Schedule


City residents are encouraged to participate in the town-wide leaf collection process. Residents should rake leaves to the curb, but not into the street, as the schedule dictates for their particular area of town. City workers will come by and collect the leaves according to this schedule, which is also printed in The Crittenden Press newspaper. Weather or other factors could prompt changes to this schedule so be aware of it weekly through November and December. CLICK HERE for a higher resolution PDF of the schedule, which can be printed.

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Tobacco use banned on state property beginning today

Kentucky ends the use of all tobacco products and e-cigarettes on executive branch state property, effective today – the day of the Great American Smokeout.

Pointing to Kentucky’s high rankings in smoking and cancer deaths, Gov. Steve Beshear announced the tobacco-free policy Sept. 4. Kentucky has the highest rate among all states of adult smokers and the sixth-highest rate of youth smoking. Kentucky also leads the nation in cancer deaths. One of the primary goals of the Gov. Beshear’s kyhealthnow initiative is to reduce Kentucky’s smoking rates by 10 percent by 2019.

“I am committed to reducing the exposure to unnecessary health risks in the workplace and taking the steps needed to improve the quality of life for all Kentucky citizens,” said Gov. Beshear. “Smoking and breathing secondhand smoke causes disease and there is no level of exposure to secondhand smoke that is considered safe.”

Kentucky is the fifth state to institute such a policy. As the largest single employer in Kentucky, the state’s tobacco-free policy will affect approximately 33,000 state workers, as well as hundreds of thousands of visitors to state offices and properties. 

All executive branch buildings are currently smoke-free inside. The governor’s executive order transitions that policy to include all tobacco products and executive branch state property. This means no cigarettes, tobacco products or e-cigarettes may be used in state-owned or leased buildings, in state-owned vehicles, or on state property. All state office buildings, parking lots, sidewalks, and green space on state grounds are included in the ban. Tobacco users will have to leave the property to smoke or use other tobacco products.

State-owned property in Crittenden County included in the smoke-free zone include:
  • The Carson G. Davidson National Guard Armory at 135 Rochester Ave.
  • The Transportation Maintenance Garage at 110 Old Salem Road.
State-leased properties include:
  • The Cabinet for Health and Family Services office at 815 S. Main St.
  • The Fish and Wildlife Conservation District office at 118 E. Bellville St.
  • The unified prosecutorial system Office at 112 S. Main St.
An implementation period was set aside for state government agencies, guided by the Personnel Cabinet and Finance and Administration Cabinet, to ready the workforce before today's effective date. 

“Nearly 5,000 executive branch workers report they use tobacco, and their health care costs average 20 percent higher than those who do not report tobacco use,” said Tim Longmeyer, Personnel Cabinet secretary and chairman of the Kentucky Group Health Insurance Board. “As a former smoker, I know it is tough to quit and that the tremendous benefits of quitting are not readily apparent to a person going through nicotine withdrawal. That’s why our priority has been to make sure employees know where to turn if they, or someone they know, would like help quitting.”

The Kentucky Employees’ Health Plan, managed at the Personnel Cabinet, offers many tobacco-free resources to nearly 170,000 Kentucky teachers, state employees and retirees. Programs available to health plan members include a personal health coach, cessation classes, nicotine replacement therapies and incentives for getting healthier. These and many other resources, including Kentucky’s own quit line – (800) QUIT NOW – can be found on the tobacco-free.ky.gov website.

As the policy applies to nearly 2,888 state-owned buildings and more than 26.4 million square feet, the Finance and Administration Cabinet has been working to mark the tobacco-free zones.

Cram the Cruiser food drive kicks off

The Kentucky State Police will kick off their fifth annual Cram the Cruiser food drive on Friday. 

Food collection sites have been established at all 16 posts throughout the state and at the agency’s headquarters in Frankfort. The campaign extends through Dec. 16 and is designed to collect non-perishable food items for those in need.

The food will be distributed to local shelters, churches or other organizations serving those in need during the holiday season. Suggested donations include canned fruit and vegetables, canned meat, macaroni and cheese, cereal, peanut butter, jelly, canned soups, chili or spaghetti sauce, brownie and cake mixes, coffee, water, powdered milk and juices.

Donations can be dropped off at any KSP Post. KSP Post 2 Madisonville is located on the Western Kentucky Parkway.  

Visit the KSP website at kentuckystatepolice.org for a listing of the post locations.

Tri Rivers Schedule: Marion and Salem


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CLICK IT: Louise's Christmas Sale

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Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Court rules recount to begin Monday in family court judge's race

The recount will begin next week.

Circuit Judge René Williams has ruled that the election recount petitioned for by Webster County attorney Ben Leonard in the race for 5th Circuit family court judge in Crittenden, Webster and Union counties will begin Monday in Crittenden County.

The three-county race for family court judge was decided by only 50 votes on Election Day, with Marion attorney Brandi Hagan Rogers coming out on top with 6,193 votes to Leonard's 6,143. On Friday, Leonard filed a petition with Crittenden Circuit Clerk Melissa Guill's office for a recount in the hope of a different outcome from the Nov. 4 vote.

Besides scheduling the recount to start next week, Judge Williams ordered this evening that ballots be tabulated by digital voting machines and not by hand as Leonard had requested. Leonard was also ordered to post a $5,000 cash bond to cover any expenses associated with the recount.

The recount will begin at 7:30 a.m. Monday at Crittenden County Courthouse when Judge Williams, local election officials and the parties involved in the case will be on hand to begin the process, which is expected to take all day. At least one technician with Lexington-based Harp Enterprises, the distributor of the election machines who sets them up for all three counties, will also be on hand to handle the technical aspects involved with the machines used in the recount.

The recount will move to Webster County on Tuesday and Union County on Wednesday, with each beginning at the same time and under the same procedure as in Crittenden County.

The process is expected to take all day in each county. In fact, once the recount begins, it will continue that day until all precincts in the respective counties are retabulated, no matter the hour.

The recount will take place in the courtroom in each county's courthouse and is open to the public.

After Judge Williams' ruling, one of Leonard's attorney's, Amealia R. Zachary of Dixon, said she was satisfied with the outcome.

"We would have preferred a hand count, but we are pleased with the ruling," she said.

Though frustrated with the request for a recount, Rogers, too, expressed her contentment with the assigned process by Judge Williams. She anticipates the same outcome from the recount.

"I have faith in the election process, the machines and the people involved," she said.

HUGE DISCOUNTS: Cozy Living

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What's News in Marion this Week...

Police have been busy
over the past few days.
There are a variety big stories brewing in Marion this week, including the following which are featured in the current
printed edition of The Crittenden Press due out on newsstands this afternoon.
  • There will be an official recount locally. See who's questioning the results of the Nov. 4 election.
  • The drug task force has been arresting suspects. The total was 11 as of press time this week and there could be more to come.
  • Emmy-nominated rapper T.O.N.E-z is coming back to Marion for a concert Saturday night.
  • Deer season continues through the weekend. See who's been bagging big bucks.
  • Guest commentary by the man who's heading up a renewed effort to vote for alcohol sales in Marion.
  • Underdown: Marion was booming in 1894. See where the growth was!
  • Urgent call by Food Bank organizers. Holiday season is tough time, effort needs a boost.
  • Longtime Extension Agent Nancy Hunt has a big announcement. 
  • CCES announces Honor Roll students.

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Schools on 2 hour delay today

Crittenden County Schools are back in session Tuesday, but on a two-hour delay.

There will be no morning preschool.

Buses will operate on normal routes, unless you have been contacted about dangerous conditions on your road.

Monday, November 17, 2014

School decision to be made in morning

School officials are waiting until the early morning to make a final decision about whether to have classes tomorrow. Tonight's weather conditions will play a role in that decisioin.

Medicare Supplemental Insurance



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No basketball scrimmage

The Lady Rockets' basketball scrimmage against Ballard Memorial, scheduled for tonight, has been cancelled due to weather-related issues.

All Crittenden County School District athletics events are cancelled for today, including practices.

Community Thanksgiving Dinner!

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Cattle truck overturned on I-24

UPDATE: One eastbound lane is now open.

Motorists traveling through Lyon County toward Nashville on I-24 will have to detour this morning. A tractor-trailer hauling cattle has overturned and crashed in a creek. Some cattle are running at large along the interstate. The eastbound lanes of the interstate are closed at this time. Kentucky Department of Transportation officials say the interstate could be closed for up to four hours. Other accidents have been reported in that area. Use caution when approaching.

Library opening later

Crittenden County Public Library will be operating on an abbreviated schedule today. It will open one hour late at 10 a.m., and close one hour early at 4 p.m.

Local highways report...

Most main highways are generally clear of snow and ice, but water is pooling which could refreeze as the temps drop throughout the day.

Side roads are snowy to slushy, and water is pooling where those roads are melting, too.

Some of the more rural roads, which have little traffic, remain snow covered.

No school in Crittenden County today

Due to the November winter blast, there will be no school in Crittenden County today.

The Kentucky Department of Transportation reports a wet heavy snow as they plow counties along the Ohio River, including Crittenden and Livingston, where accumulations were greatest.

Temperatures are expected to drop into the 20s as the day progresses with a frigid overnight that could be close to single digits.

Great Rates on Medicare Supplement


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Classes in Crittenden County cancelled

School in Crittenden County has been cancelled for today due to the wintry precipitation that fell overnight and into this morning.

Sunday, November 16, 2014

3-7 inches of icy precipitation predicted

This first major winter event of the season is expected a full month ahead of winter's official arrival.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, a winter storm warning is in effect for Crittenden County from 6 p.m. today until 6 a.m. Monday.

The warning is for sleet and snow for areas along the Ohio River in Kentucky. Wintry precipitation will become likely by this evening over much of the area. Rain and sleet, possibly mixed with snow, will arrive before 9 p.m., then switch over to snow and sleet between 9 p.m. and midnight. Mostly snow is anticipated after midnight, according to the NWS. The chance of precipitation is 100 percent. New snow and sleet accumulation of 3 to 7 inches is possible.

Hazardous driving conditions will be the major impact. Conditions will be quite hazardous during the morning commute Monday. A strong west to northwest wind gusting up to 30 mph on Monday may cause some blowing and drifting of snow.

Motorists are advised to stay off the roadways until entirely necessary.

If school in Crittenden County is cancelled due to the weather, it will be posted as soon as the announcement is made.

Scammers using social media to find victims

Forget phone calls and door knocks. Today’s scammers are just as likely to use Facebook. Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine this week is warning that residents statewide have reported being duped by too-good-to-be-true offers that pop up on social media sites.

For more on the story, visit the Kentucky Enquirer online.

Kynect app designed to reach 'invincible' young without health insurance

Want to learn about options for health insurance through the state's program, Kynect? There's an app for that. State health officials are hoping that the app, available via a free download, will attract the demographic of young, health people the state has dubbed as the "invincibles." Those folks are crucial for the long-term financial stability of the state's effort to enroll people under the Affordable Care Act.

For more, visit The Herald Leader online.

McConnell vows war with Obama over coal

Sen. Mitch McConnell, the next majority leader, said Friday that in response to a "war on coal" waged by President Barack Obama, "I'm going to go to war with him." He pledged that he and his fellow Republicans would combat the White House "in any way that we can" in the next Congress and signaled that a primary weapon will be using spending bills to limit funding of the Environmental Protection Agency, which wants to reduce carbon emissions.

For more on the story, visit The Courier-Journal online.

Friday, November 14, 2014

Rifle deer hunting season closes Nov. 23

Hunters have two more weekends to bag a deer with a rifle. So far, field reports have been varied. Some hunters say the rut (mating season) is in full swing, but others cite indications that the peak is still in the offing. Nonetheless, as of Friday evening, local hunters had bagged 1,451 deer during the modern gun season. Crittenden County gunners have taken 1,944 deer so far this season – that is No. 3 out of all 120 counties in Kentucky. The gun season ends Nov. 23. Hunters may take only one buck during the deer season, but they are allowed an unlimited number of antlerless deer with the proper licensing. The local Hunters for the Hungry program is accepting deer at Family Butcher Shop in the Amish community. There is no cost to the hunter to donate a deer. The venison goes to the needy families through the Crittenden County Food Bank.
Pictured here is 5-year=old Jett Reddick, who harvested this nice buck last weekend. Counting all its sticker points, the buck was a 12 pointer!

Law enforcement conducts drug roundup


UPDATED

Ten individuals, mostly in Marion and Crittenden County, were arrested this morning as part of a sixth-month undercover investigation by the Pennyrile Area Narcotics Task Force. The individuals arrested today were charged in sealed indictments yesterday by the Crittenden County Grand Jury. Next week's printed edition of The Crittenden Press will have more details about the drug suspects in the roundup. In addition to the task force, Marion Police Department and Crittenden County Sheriff's Department assisted in the investigation and the service of warrants on Friday in Marion. Livingston and Lyon county authorities also assisted in the roundup.

Those arrested on warrants Friday and lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center were:

  • Pauline Wright, 41, of Marion, second-degree criminal simulation and endangering the welfare of a minor.
  • Charles E. Williams, 50, trafficking in a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school and theft of services.
  • Curtis R. Smith, 28, of Marion, trafficking in marijuana less than 8 ounces, second offense.
  • April Bivins, 34, of Marion, theft of services.
  • Bridgette Belt, 19, of Marion, theft of services.
  • Tabitha Sisco, 32, of Marion, second-degree complicity to traffic in a controlled substance and first-degree complicity to traffic in a controlled substance. 
  • Wade H. Downs, 28, of Marion second-degree complicity to traffic in a controlled substance and first-degree complicity to traffic in a controlled substance. 
  • Bruce A. Day, 42, of Marion, two counts of second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
  • Lisa M. Mason, 36, of Marion first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.
  • Catina J. Tolley, 36, of Marion, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance.



City water pressure low, leak being repaired

Low water pressure is being experienced throughout the City of Marion as employees work to repair a water leak on West Bellville Street near Old Salem Road.

City Administrator Mark Bryant said a boil water notice is not necessary at this point. He said the origin of the leak has been identified and crews are on site repairing the damaged line.

Johnson's Black Friday Sale

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KyTC prepares for winter weather event

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 1 crews in the state’s 12 westernmost counties, which includes Crittenden and Livingston counties, are gearing up for a developing winter weather event expected to arrive Sunday and continue into Monday.

The weather forecast indicates about a 50 percent chance of rain moving into the area Sunday afternoon with a 50 percent chance of a switch over to snow during the overnight hours into Monday morning.

Temperatures are expected to drop below freezing at some point overnight Sunday. Accumulations of snow up to around 1 inch are possible.

To prepare, Kentucky highway crews will be out pre-treating bridges and overpasses in District 1 counties today. Motorists should be alert for slow moving trucks going about pre-treating activities, particularly along Interstates, parkways and other major routes.

Pre-treating with brine leaves a fine coating of salt powder that will stick to road surfaces for several days. The salt is then available to be activated by falling precipitation during the early hours of a winter weather event.  Due to rain that is expected to precede the snow, crews will only pre-treat bridges and overpasses for this event.

Additionally, highway crews across western Kentucky will be loading salt onto their trucks, mounting snow plows, and preparing other necessary equipment before they leave work on Friday. This will allow crews to hit the road quickly over the weekend, if required.

The KyTC District 1 Snow and Ice Team will continue to monitor the weather forecast for changes and provide regular updates on the snow response plan.

The National Weather Service has indicated that this is not expected to be a significant event. However, there may be some limited travel impact as the system develops. Pronounced cold is expected to remain over the region into most of next week.

Motorists are asked to do their part by assuring that they have good tread on their tires, carrying appropriate emergency supplies in their vehicle, wearing warm clothing anytime they go out, and using appropriate caution when precipitation and freezing temperatures create hazardous driving conditions.

Motorists are advised to closely monitor the local forecast for updates as the system approaches, and be aware of the potential for rapid changes in driving conditions.

The NWS has started their winter weather awareness campaign. Details are available at http://www.crh.noaa.gov/jkl/?n=ky_wwa_portal under "Top News of Day."

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

Conrad's: 2Day Sale Starts Today!


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City Leaf Pickup Schedule


City residents are encouraged to participate in the town-wide leaf collection process. Residents should rake leaves to the curb, but not into the street, as the schedule dictates for their particular area of town. City workers will come by and collect the leaves according to this schedule, which is also printed in The Crittenden Press newspaper. Weather or other factors could prompt changes to this schedule so be aware of it weekly through November and December. CLICK HERE for a higher resolution PDF of the schedule, which can be printed.

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Tri-Rivers Schedules: Marion and Salem

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Cold temps to persist; some snow is possible

Cold weather is expected to continue through the weekend into next week with the possibility of snow, which a local meteorologist called "pretty remarkable" this early in the season. "This is the longest stretch of cold weather - this intense, this early in the season - since 1997," Paducah National Weather Service meteorologist Sean Poulos said. He added that highs won't likely be much colder than Wednesday's 36 degrees, the lowest high ever for Nov. 12. Temperatures are predicted to remain 20 to 25 degrees below average for this time of year.

For the full story, visit The Paducah Sun online.

All Wednesday accident victims identified

All victims have been identified in a two-vehicle accident that happened at dusk Wednesday near Moore Hill on U.S. 60 West.

The wreck involved off-duty Livingston County Sheriff Bobby Davidson.

Five people were injured in the crash that occurred around 5 p.m. near Moore Hill in Crittenden County just west of Ky. 297.

According to Crittenden County Sheriff’s Deputy Chuck Hoover, Katrina Lynch, 37, of Salem was westbound in a white 2008 Chevrolet Impala when she swerved to miss a deer in the roadway. She then reportedly lost control of the vehicle and veered into the path of an eastbound 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe driven by Davidson, 46, of Salem.

Crittenden County Rescue Squad was called to extricate one of the victims.

Lynch and her daughter, Makenzie, 11, were taken by ambulance to Livingston Hospital and Healthcare Services, as were Davidson and his passenger, Jackie Teems, 30. Lynch's son, Kaden, 13, was taken from the scene by air ambulance to an Evansville-area hospital, where he remained in critical condition Thursday morning.

Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the collision. Livingston County Sheriff’s Department, Kentucky State Police, Crittenden County constables, Crittenden County EMS, Livingston County EMS, Lyon County EMS, Caldwell County EMS, Air Evac Lifeteam, PHI Air Medical, Crittenden County Rescue Squad, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Salem Fire Department and several first responders assisted on scene.

Fohs Hall hosts Bama Blue-grace Friday


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Blood drive hosted at school

Crittenden County High School Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) will be sponsoring a school/community blood drive from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 20 at Rocket Arena.

As a fundraiser, FCA will receive $5 for every pint collected. The proceeds from this fundraiser will go to the FCA Relay for Life Team fund.

"Our goal is to reach 100 units," said Carol West, CCHS teacher and FCA sponsor.

Anyone wishing to donate can contact West at carol.west@crittenden.kyschools.us or call the high school at (270) 965-2248 from 9 to 10 a.m. each day or after school.

Band fruit fundraiser under way

The Crittenden County Middle and High School bands are conducting their annual fruit sales through Nov.28. All orders and money will be due Nov. 28.  

Delivery will be the week of Dec. 15.
   
Available are:
  • Navel Oranges
  • Red Grapefruit
  • Citrus Sampler
  • Gift Box
  • Fresh Trio
  • Tangerines
  • Juice Oranges
  • Red Navels
  • Apples
  • Other varieties
All orders must be prepaid. If you would like to place an order, see any band member, parent or contact Carol Hodge (270) 704-9052 or Stephanie Goin (270) 704-1640.

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Two-vehicle injury wreck on U.S. 60

Emergency personnel are responding to a two-vehicle accident on U.S. 60 near Midway. There are reported multiple injuries among six people involved in the crash. Two air medical helicopters have been called to the scene.

The accident occurred just before 5 p.m. and is west of the intersection of Ky. 297.

update 2
According to our sources, one person is seriously injured and five others have been taken to area hospitals. One was flown from the scene via helicopter.

According to relatives, Livingston County Sheriff Bobby Davidson was among those injured in the accident.

The highway is now clear and passable.

Davies bags huge 10 pointer

Katie Davies
Crittenden Press student sports reporter and outdoors writer Katie Davies bagged a monster whitetail buck with her bow this week. The huge 10-pointer is the second record book buck this Crittenden County High School student has taken in the last two years. This one will score in the 170s. Stay tuned for her story in an upcoming newspaper.

To see how everyone else has done this hunting season, log onto the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources website and check the harvest numbers.

Click here.

What's News in Marion...

This week's printed edition of The Crittenden Press includes 14 pages of news, information and advertising that will help the reader know where to shop, who's having sales, what's going on in town and  what has happened over the past week.

Among some of the big news stories this week are:
  • William Clarke gets long awaited military honor
  • Veterans celebrated in Marion
  • Group wants alcohol back on ballot
  • Kirk will be appointed interim jailer

Hams, Turkeys, Shoulders: Holiday Orders!

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Tuesday, November 11, 2014

GIFT IDEAS: Superior in Marion

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Happy Veterans Day

To all veterans on this Veterans Day, The Crittenden Press says thank you for your service.

Monday, November 10, 2014

Sunday, November 9, 2014

Area deaths

Mary Plunkett, 88, of Marion died Nov. 8, 2014, at Crittenden Health and Rehabilitation Center in Marion. Arrangements are incomplete at Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem.

Charles David Stone, 54, of Salem died Nov.  8, 2014, at Livingston Hospital and Healthcare Services in Salem. Arrangements are incomplete at Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem.

Mary Frankie Marie Todd Hunter, 88, of Marion died Nov. 8, 2014, at Crittenden Health and Rehabilitation Center in Marion. Arrangements are under the direction of Boyd Funeral Directors in Salem.

Berlin Wall falls 25 years ago today

Today, the world will commemorate the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. The graphic (click to enlarge) below describes the construction of the wall and the celebrates the wall coming down and what it meant to the world.

Click to enlarge

Friday, November 7, 2014

Making Hay: Hunt's Forage Farm


City Leaf Collection



City residents are encouraged to participate in the town-wide leaf collection process. Residents should rake leaves to the curb, but not into the street, as the schedule dictates for their particular area of town. City workers will come by and collect the leaves according to this schedule, which is also printed in The Crittenden Press newspaper. Weather or other factors could prompt changes to this schedule so be aware of it weekly through November and December. CLICK HERE for a higher resolution PDF of the schedule, which can be printed.

THINGS TO KNOW: Deer Season

  • The rifle deer season opens tomorrow (Nov. 8) and runs through Nov. 23.
  • Tonight is the annual Deer Expo at Marion Baptist Church, 7 to 9 p.m.
  • You can still register for the Big Buck Contest - adult and youth divisions - at Hodge's.
  • If you see illegal hunting practices, call 1-800-25-ALERT.
  • TeleCheck to report a harvest is 1-800-CHK-DEER.
  • Remember safety is first. Absolutely know your target and what is beyond it.
  • Hunters for the Hungry is accepting deer for the local food bank. Take your deer to Family Butcher Shop in the Amish community. There is no charge to the hunter. Venison will go to the needy.
  • Watch for deer on the roads. Hunters and the mating season for whitetails tend to push them into the paths of vehicles. Be alert.
  • Email your deer photos to The Press for publication in the newspaper. It's free. Click here.

Archived election returns since 2002

The Press Online archives election returns from 2002 to present. Click here to see them.

We have just posted complete precinct by precinct results from the 2014 primary and general elections.

Nowhere else can you find this kind of local information in one location on the web. It's always there, at MY LINKS on The Press Online's homepage.

Thursday, November 6, 2014

7th annual Buck Expo Friday Night



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Kentucky lieutenant governor bound for White House

President Barack Obama has chosen Kentucky Lt. Gov. Jerry Abramson as his liaison to state and local governments, bringing an official experienced in successfully implementing his health care law to the White House as the second open enrollment period is set to kick off.

According to The Associated Press, Gov. Steve Beshear has chosen former state Auditor Crit Luallen to serve as his new lieutenant governor in his final year in office.

For the full story, visit The Gleaner online.

Area deaths

Margaret Tonne, 102, of Smithland died Nov. 2, 2014, at Livingston Hospital and Healthcare Services in Salem. Arrangements are being handled by Boyd funeral Directors in Salem.

David N. "Jock" Crider, 55, of Marion died Nov. 5, 2014, at Norton Health in Louisville. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements.

Section of Ky. 120 to close Monday in Webster

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet plans to close a section of Ky. 120 in Webster County on Monday.

Ky. 120 will be closed at mile-point 10.7 to allow a cross drain to be replaced. This is along Ky. 120 between Clayton Road and Ky. 2836/Picas Austin Road in the Bull Creek area.

The roadway at this site will close at 8 a.m. Monday. It is expected to reopen to traffic at about 2:30 p.m. Monday.

There will be no marked detour.

Ceremonies at Rocket Arena, Mapleview war memorial to honor veterans Tuesday

The annual American Legion Post 111 Veterans Day ceremony at the war memorial in Mapleview Cemetery in Marion will begin at the traditional time of 11 a.m. Tuesday. District 4 state Rep. Lynn Bechler of Marion will be the keynote speaker. If inclement weather, the ceremony will be moved indoors to Fohs Hall.

Also Tuesday, veterans and the public are invited to celebrate Veterans Day at Rocket Arena beginning at 9 a.m. This week's edition of The Crittenden Press incorrectly gave the location as the middle school gym.

There will be no keynote speaker at Rocket Arena, but the program is designed to honor both living and deceased veterans.

World War II veteran William E. Clarke will be presented the Knight of the Legion of Honor medal, which is awarded through the French government to pay tribute to those who fought to liberate France and western Europe during the war.

Special fiscal court meeting Friday

Crittenden Fiscal Court will meet in special session at 8:30 a.m. Friday in the judge-executive's office.

The sole purpose of the meeting is to discuss a potential amendment to the jail budget concerning the county jailer's salary.

Poll: Half of Kentucky voters say no to idea of Grimes entering 2015 race for governor

Throughout the U.S. Senate race, rumors persisted that if Alison Lundergan Grimes lost, she would quickly launch a gubernatorial bid.

Only a third of Kentucky voters think that’s a good idea, according to the final Bluegrass Poll of 2014, conducted last week before the election.

Poll respondents were asked: “If Alison Lundergan Grimes fails in her bid for the U.S. Senate, should she run for the Democratic nomination for governor in 2015?”

Fifty percent of registered voters said no — and that was in a poll that showed McConnell with a five-point lead, well short of the 15-point margin he ended up with Tuesday — and 33 percent said yes. The remainin 17 percent said they weren’t sure.

For the full story, visit The Herald Leader online.

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Just Posted: Cheer and Football Jamboree Pics

Customer Appreciation Sale this Week


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Photos sought of Vietnam War casualties

For years, volunteers across the country have worked with the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund (VVMF) on the "Faces Never Forgotten" call for photos campaign. The effort aims to find a face for each of the 58,300 names inscribed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. 

As of Oct. 21, VVMF had located photos for 38,300 of the names on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. This means VVMF has only 20,000 photos remaining to put a face to every name on The Wall. There are about 450 Kentucky photos still missing from 86 of the state's 120 counties, including two each from Livingston and Webster counties. The names of those area veterans with missing photos are:

  • James W. Ramage of Burna. He was in the Army and was killed on June 5, 1967.
  • Robert L. Smith of Smithland. He was in the Army and was killed on June 6, 1968.
  • Robert L. Davis of Providence. He was in the Army and was killed on Nov. 17, 1965.
  • David A. Jameson of Providence. He was in the Army and was killed on Jan. 20, 1968.

All photos have been collected from Crittenden, Caldwell, Lyon and Union counties. Three states – New Mexico, Wyoming and North Dakota – have completed the task, finding photos of all of those who died or went missing during the Vietnam War.

In putting together this effort, VVMF is wanting the names of the missing to be made available to the public in hopes a family member, friend, high school classmate or other person might see the list and know how to get a picture of the soldier. And it doesn't have to be a picture of the soldier in uniform. Some have sent in photos from high school annuals, even elementary school photographs. It's not when the picture was taken, it's that there is a picture of this fallen soldier to go with his/her name on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

For more information on the project, visit VVMF.org. For those with a picture to submit, visit VVMF.org/how-to-submit.

Area death

Steven Crider Daniel, 71, of Rosiclare, Ill., a native of Marion, died Nov. 4, 2014, at Hardin County General Hospital in Rosiclare. Cox Funeral Home in Rosiclare is handling arrangements.

Betty Sue Hooten, 87, of Marion died Nov. 4, 2014, at Crittenden Health Systems in Marion. Myers Funeral Home in Marion is handling arrangements. There are no services scheduled. 

Bechler, McConnell, Whitfield all winners

Kentucky State Rep. Lynn Bechler (center) speaks with
supporter Andy Fox as results from Tuesday's general election 
came in across the 4th House District. Bechler (R-Marion) was 
re-elected to another two-year term in Frankfort.

Republicans failed to take the Kentucky House of Representatives Tuesday night, but GOP incumbent Lynn Bechler of Crittenden County defeated his Democratic opposition to return to Frankfort for two more years representing Crittenden, Livingston, Caldwell and a portion of Christian County in the 4th House District.

In Congress, U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell was re-elected to the upper house and will be promoted to Senate Majority Leader, as Republicans gained enough seats to take control of the 100-seat chamber.

Republican Congressman Ed Whitfield of Hopkinsville was also re-elected to represent western Kentucky's 1st Congressional District. He was first elected to the seat in 1994.

For complete election results across the state, follow this link.

Livingston County election results

Livingston County Sheriff Bobby Davidson, a Republican, fended off a challenge by Democrat Larry O'Neal Tuesday night, gaining 59 percent of the 3,883 votes cast.

Sheriff was the only contested countywide race in the county.

All four races for magistrate were, in effect, uncontested. Terry Stringer in District 1, Franklin Walker in District 2, Brad Hunter in District 3 and Marvin Buford in District 4 will comprise Livingston Fiscal Court. All are Democrats, joining fellow Democrat Judge-Executive Chris Lasher, who faced only nominal write-in opposition.

Though the ballot showed Hunter with competition, Republican Jimmy "Brent" Ferrell had pulled out of the race. His exit came too late to remove his name from the ballot. Regardless, Hunter, who will represent the Salem area, earned 64 percent of the vote.

All constable races were unopposed.

Sheriff Davidson was the only Republican to be elected to office in Livingston County.

School board
There were two non-partisan races for seats on the board of education in Livingston County.

In the 1st Education District, Pam Hopkins Salazar defeated Ronica Woodward with 62.6 percent of the vote.

Ronald Jones won the seat to represent the 5th Education District, defeating Michael Joiner and Carl Dietz. Jones garnered 55.9 percent of the ballots, followed by Joiner with 28.5 percent and Dietz with 15.6 percent.

Salem
Salem City Commission will include Crystal Belt-Franklin, Janet Hughes, Craig Dossett and Gary Damron.

Smithland
Smithland City Commission will be comprised of Mayor Joe Ward, who ran unopposed, and commissioners William Hesser, Dianne Fraley, James Terry and William Mahan.

Carrsville
Deana Jo Gerding was unopposed in her race for mayor of Carrsville.

Grand Rivers
Grand Rivers City Council will be comprised of Mayor Tom Moodie, who ran unopposed, and council members Pat Gorbett, Dianne Bingham, Bill Huffman, Randell O'Bryan, Mark Sunderman and Oliver "Bud" Hunt.

Other races
U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell, Congressman Ed Whitfield and Kentucky House District 4 Rep. Lynn Bechler, all Republicans, carried Livingston County in defeating their challengers for re-election.

For complete election results from Livingston County, follow this link.