Ferry now closed due to flooding

The Cave In Rock Ferry is now closed due to the rising Ohio River and is expected to remain so for several days until floodwaters recede, likely the middle of next week.

Ferry should remain open all day

The Ohio River ferry is still in operation today, but several county roads remain flooded as the level of the Ohio continues to rise and drainage from tributaries backs up.

At 8:30 this morning, the gauge at Shawneetown, Ill., reported the river at 7 feet above flood stage. Ferry operation generally ceases due to high water at about 9.5 feet above flood stage. The river is expected to reach that level in the early morning hours of New Year's Day, meaning service could be unavailable after tonight for several days.

The river is forecast to crest at 11.5 feet above flood stage around noon Monday, which would be the highest January crest since 1974. It should drop to a level allowing for ferry operation to resume sometime in the early morning hours of Wednesday.

River gauge at Shawneetown, Ill.

Historic crests
65.64 feet on Jan. 30, 1937
56.35 feet on May 6, 2011
55.60 feet on March 14, 1945
55.30 feet on Jan. 19, 1950
54.60 feet on March 20, 1964

Recent crests
48.36 feet on March 20, 2015
44.50 feet, expected crest on Jan. 3, 2016
41.28 feet on April 11, 2014
40.14 feet, latest reported level today
39.14 feet on Dec. 30, 2013
56.35 feet on May 6, 2011
39.29 feet on May 10, 2010

Where will you be at Midnight?

Click Image to Enlarge

Lady Rocket Moss nets hoops milestone

Cassidy Moss reaches 1,000 career points.

Weston Road re-opens

Floodwaters have receded, and Weston Road in rural northern Crittenden County is now open, according to Judge-Executive Perry Newcom.

Ohio rises more than foot in 4 hours

Floodwaters are closer to shutting down the Ohio River Ferry. Across three and a half hours this morning, the Ohio River rose more than a foot to 38.6 feet as measured at Shawneetown, Ill. At 8:30 a.m., it was 37.4 feet.

Flood stage is 33 feet. Ferry service is generally interrupted at around 42.5 feet. The river is expected to crest Saturday evening at about 44.5 feet.

Area death

Deborah Jean Myers, 55, of Marion died at her home on Christmas Day. Myers Funeral Home in Marion is in charge of arrangements.

Ohio continues rise, county roads closed

A 50-second "Turn Around Don't Drown" PSA from the National Weather Service illustrates the dangers of driving across as little as 12 inches of water across the road. To access the video, click here.

Flood warnings for Crittenden County along the Ohio River continue as river gauges at both Shawneetown and Golconda, Ill., are above flood stage. Several roads in Crittenden County are currently closed due to flooding. The Cave In Rock Ferry continues to run, but service will likely be interrupted in the coming days as waters rise.

Although the heavy rain has left western Kentucky, the dangers of flooding still remain in and near major river systems in the area. The heavy rain, snow and ice that fell across the middle of the country the last several days are draining from creeks and streams into major rivers like the Ohio and Mississippi. As these larger rivers continue to rise, the water will back up into small rivers and creeks – like the Tradewater River and Crooked Creek in Crittenden County – that feed into them.

Ohio River floodwaters from upstream are making their way to our area, causing the river level to rise locally. Drainage of the river will be slowed by the swollen Mississippi and exacerbated by downstream releases from Barkley and Kentucky dams that drain into the Ohio, further backing up drainage. However, no further rain is forecast through Jan. 8.

Motorists are reminded to slow down and be alert in areas where floodwaters are at the edge of the roadway or may partially covering the driving surface from time to time.

According to Judge-Executive Perry Newcom, at 10:30 a.m. today, the following county roads were closed due to high water:

• Providence Road
• Enon Church Road
• Cool Springs Rd.
• Weston Road just past Baker Hollow Road
• Phin Croft Road
• Monroe Wesmoland Road
• Elizabethtown Ferry Road

By the weekend, the ferry across the Ohio River could be affected. The river at Shawneetown at 8:30 a.m. was at 37.4 feet and is forecast to crest at around 44.5 feet early Sunday morning. Ferry service is interrupted at around 42.5 feet. Flood stage is 33 feet.

For the latest information on highway flooding issues in Kentucky Department of Highways District 1 go to any of the following:

• facebook.com/kytcdistrict1
• 511.ky.gov
• waze.com

U.S. 60 traffic back to normal

Water has continued to drop along this section of US 60 between the 24 and 25 mile marker in Union County.  Water dropped enough to allow limited traffic to resume with WATER OVER ROAD signs up around 6:30 p.m. last night.

This morning floodwaters have dropped completely off the road surface to allow normal traffic flow at this site near the UNION-Henderson County Line.

Motorists are reminded to slow down and be alert in areas where floodwaters are at the edge of the roadway or may partially cover the driving surface form time to time.  With additional flooding anticipated along major rivers and streams across the region in the coming week or two caution is required.

Ledbetter bridge endures first tow strike

FA Kentucky Transportation Cabinet bridge inspector was dispatched to the US 60 Tennessee River Bridge at Ledbetter around Midnight after the US Coast Guard reported a barge hit on the main pier of the structure.

According to the US Coast Guard Operations Center in Louisville, the Motor Vessel Tennessee Hunter was pushing 15 empty hopper barges when the captain reported strong currents caused by floodwaters pushed the tow into the single in-water pier around 11:30 p.m.

The pilot reported no significant damage to the barges and no immediately visible damage to the pier.

Traffic on the bridge was restricted to one lane for about 45 minutes to allow an inspector to access the deck above the main pier.  After running a safety check on the bridge structure and checking the in-water pier for signs of damage, the certified bridge inspector gave an all clear.  The inspector will be back on the bridge this morning to check the pier during daylight.

The motor cessel Tennessee Hunter has the distinction of being the first tow boat to strike the in-water pier on the New Ledbetter Bridge which opened to vehicle traffic at the end of July in 2013.

The US 60 Tennessee River Bridge connects McCracken County to Livingston County between Paducah and Ledbetter.  The bridge is at US 60 Livingston County mile point 0.0 and McCracken County mile point 20.634.

Approximately 8,000 vehicles cross the structure in an average day.  

U.S. 60 at Henderson-Union line re-opens

US 60 has REOPENED to traffic between the 24 and 25 mile marker near the UNION-HENDERSON County Line with WATER OVER ROAD signs posted.

Water has dropped enough to allow traffic to resume along this section of US 60 between Waverly and Corydon near Highland Creek.  However, due to water on the edge of the roadway caution is required in this area.

Kentucky Transportation Cabinet personnel have posted signs were water is still on the highway driving surface.  Motorists should use caution as traffic has to crowd the center line in these two areas.

Engineers are optimistic water will drop off the roadway sometime Wednesday morning.  Meanwhile, caution is required as traffic resumes.

No Crittenden Press this week

There will be no issue of The Crittenden Press this week. The Jan. 7 edition will feature our annual look back at the previous year.

New Years! It's a Party at MCC

Coming Soon : Talent Contests

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Area deaths

Owen Leon Hurley, 85, of Salem died Monday. Visitation is noon until the 2pm funeral Thursday at Boyd Funeral Directors and Cremation Services in Salem. Burial will follow in Salem Cemetery.

Theresa Colleen Bradford, 65, of Marion died Dec. 24 at her home. Myers Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Flood warning on Ohio, ferry service at risk

A flood warning continues along the Ohio River in Crittenden County, and Cave In Rock Ferry service is expected to be interrupted.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the warning is until further notice. Currently minor flooding is occurring, with moderate flooding expected for several days. The river is forecast to rise to near 48.5 feet at Shawneetown, Ill., by the evening of Jan. 4.

Last night, the river was at 35 feet. Flood stage is 33 feet. The ferry generally ceases operation due to high water at around 42.5 feet.

Becoming an Outdoors Woman workshop held next month at Kenlake

Women 18 and over have until Jan. 4 to register for a special Beyond Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Workshop at Kenlake State Resort Park, Jan. 15-17.

Co-sponsored by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and the Kentucky Department of Parks, this weekend workshop features numerous opportunities for women to learn more about outdoor skills, activities, wildlife-watching and conservation efforts in the state.

The workshop kicks off with an eagle watching cruise on Kentucky Lake aboard the CQ Princess Yacht. Participants will take a three-hour ride on Kentucky Lake to spot and photograph bald eagles wintering on this waterway, and listen as a guide talks about eagles and other wildlife in the region.

On Saturday several classes will be offered, such as holiday wreath making from natural materials, archery, morel mushroom hunting, how to select the right firearm, wild game cooking, dog obedience and handling, winter birding and winter survival.

Registration forms are available on the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife website at fw.ky.gov. Search under the keyword, "BOW." Lodging and meal arrangements can be made directly through Kenlake Park by calling (270) 474-2211. Registration forms and the workshop fee must be completed and returned per the instructions on the form, postmarked by Jan. 4.

The Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Program is a national program sponsored by numerous public and private partners including the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Kentucky Parks and Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, Pure Fishing, Federal Arms, Lodge Cookware and many others. The program has reached more than 4,000 women in its 20-year existence in Kentucky.

US 60 closed at Union-Henderson

Kentucky transportation officials say US 60 is closed at the Union County-Henderson County Line at Highland Creek.

Message Boards are directing traffic along a detour via KY 260 to KY 359 through Smith Mills or via US 41-Alternate and KY 56.

Roads re-open, ferry remains closed

Crittenden County reports KY 855 at the 5 mile marker and KY 902 near the Crittenden-Caldwell County Line have REOPENED to traffic after being closed by floodwaters off and on through the day.

The Cave-In-Rock Ferry remains closed due to high winds and debris in the Ohio River from recent heavy rains.

Ferry closed for high winds

The Cave In Rock Ferry closed at 4pm today because of high winds on the Ohio River.

The ferry is expected to resume operation in the morning.

Roads closed

Fishtrap Road flooding in Crittenden County

At 4 p.m., the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet reported Ky. 855 at the 5-mile marker between Frances and U.S. 60 West and Ky. 902 at the 5-mile marker near the Crittenden-Caldwell County line as closed.

Area deaths

George Henry “G.H.” McMican, 77, of Marion died Dec. 27 at Crittenden County Health and Rehabilitation Center in Marion. Services are scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday at Gilbert Funeral Home.

Rebecca Orr Gunther, 90, of Marion died Sunday at Livingston Hospital in Salem. Services are scheduled for 1 p.m., Tuesday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion. The family will receive visitors from 5-8 p.m., Monday at the funeral home.

Democrats losing control of Frankfort

Gooch

Democratic control in Frankfort continues to weaken.

Rep. Jim Gooch of Providence has changed his party registration to Republican, bringing the current number of GOP members in the 100-seat chamber to 48. However, that number will soon fall to 46 when two representatives who won statewide office in November begin their new duties.


"As I seek re-election in 2016, a presidential election year, I want to run as a member of a party that I can support that party’s nominee," Gooch said today in a statement. "I cannot support any of the Democrats running for President."


The 60-day 2016 legislative session begins Jan. 5. There will be special elections called to fill those and two other vacancies in the House at some point during the session.

Democrats have controlled the Kentucky House since 1921. The GOP maintains a strong 27-11 majority in the Senate. Kentucky is the only Southern state with split-party control of the legislature.

Earlier this month, Republican Matt Bevin took over as governor, ending eight years of Democratic executive leadership under Steve Beshear.

Phone lines down at Press office

The phone lines at The Crittenden Press are currently down. If you are trying to reach our office, please call 270.704.0435 until the problem is resolved.

Rains saturate county

A screenshot from the National Weather Service's website shows a good portion of the
nation under some type of weather advisory. Flooding is the problem in Kentucky.

Despite off-and-on flooding due to heavy rains over the last few days, as of 10 a.m., the only road currently reported under water in Crittenden County is a portion of Cool Springs Road near the Tradewater River.

South Main Street near Conrad's Food Store
is a trouble spot during heavy rains like Marion
has experienced over recent days.

As recently as this morning, Ky. 902 between Dycusburg and Fredonia and Ky. 855 between Frances and Marion were closed. County roads that have been closed as water rises and falls during periods of heavy rain include Axle Creek, Phin Croft, Coleman and Fishtrap roads. A tile on Donald Winders Road washed out over the weekend, but Judge-Executive Perry Newcom said this morning that the problem was fixed.

"The damage has been relatively minor," he said. "It's been mostly trees across the road or debris left by water."

There have been no reports of any serious injuries or wrecks due to flooding over the last day or so.

Starting Wednesday with severe storms that passed through, almost 10 inches of rain has fallen on portions of the county. Magistrate Donnetta Travis reported a rain gauge at her home in southern Crittenden County had collected 9 inches of rain. However, the Kentucky Mesonet weather and climate data station in Repton showed just under 5 inches from Wednesday through Sunday.

"We've had a lot more rain around Dycusburg than in Mattoon," Newcom said.

All of Kentucky west of Lexington is currently under a flash flood warning or watch. Crittenden County remains in the watch area. A huge swath of the nation's mid-section is under some type of weather advisory, according to the National Weather Service.

Ky. 654 North is experiencing flooding

It's a pretty sure bet the potential for flooding will continue today. Showers and a thunderstorm are forecast into the evening, with a threat of heavy rain. The chance of precipitation according to NWS is 100 percent.

Newcom said warning signs remain up on county roads in areas prone to flooding during periods of heavy rain. Any high water is not expected to last, as major creeks and rivers continue draining the county.

"Right now, it's all headwaters," Newcom said.

The judge-executive said ditching and drainage work by the county over the last few months appears to have made an impact.

"There weren't nearly as many calls as usual," he said.

Beginning tonight, the dry-out begins. Through Sunday, according to NWS, no more rain is predicted. Temperatures however, will be significantly cooler into the new year.

Rehab department ready to get you better

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New Year's Party Open to All

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Boil water order lifted

The City of Marion has now lifted the boil water order issued early yesterday.

Flash flooding possible this weekend

Crittenden County is under a flash flood watch through Monday.

Ground already saturated by from heavy Wednesday rains will be met today with showers and thunderstorms that could produce heavy rain. Storm totals from around 2 to 4 inches should be expected with higher totals possible where thunderstorms repeat in the area.

Today's forecast, according to the National Weather Service, is for showers and thunderstorms before 9 am, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm between 9 am and 3 pm, then scattered showers and thunderstorms after 3 pm. The chance of precipitation is 90 percent.

Heavy rainfall will worsen or prolong river flooding.

Additional thunderstorms are predicted for Sunday.

The high temperature for today is forecast to be 71 degrees, nearly 30 degrees above normal.

Marion under boil water advisory

The entire City of Marion is under a boil water advisory until further notice.

Marion City Administrator Mark Bryant said city water customers will likely awake to low pressure from the faucet, and any potable water should be boiled before being ingested.

Bryant said the problem is likely a valve issue at the water treatment plant on Chapel Hill Road. He said he has driven town in the pre-dawn hours and has been unable to find a visible leak. Utility workers will continue look for the problem and make any necessary fixes.

Continue to monitor this website for updates.

Free youth deer hunting this weekend

Kentucky's free youth deer hunting weekend is Saturday and Sunday (Dec. 26-27).

Hunters 15-under may hunt for free, without a license or permit. This is a resident or non-resident opportunity for hunting deer in the commonwealth. Hunters must be accompanied by an adult.

Youth hunters may hunt deer with firearms, or any other legal method, statewide. All bag limits, zone restrictions and deer hunting requirements apply during the special youth deer seasons.

Area death

Margaret M. Robertson, 87, of Marion died Tuesday at Crittenden County Health and Rehab. Gilbert Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Open Christmas Eve Communion tonight

SCHEDULE

• 5pm Blessing of the Elements
• Reading of the Christmas Story from St. Luke
• 5:30-7pm Come and Go Communion

Holy Communion might today be more commonly associated with the celebrations of and before Easter, but Marion United Methodist Church minister Rev. David Combs says it has a place in the Christmas season, too.

His church, the county’s largest Methodist congregation, has long served communion on the Eve of Christmas. The tradition dates back to somewhere in the early 1990s, perhaps earlier. 

Amid a decorated and candle-lit sanctuary, the church’s pastor expects to serve about 200 for communion this Thursday evening.

There will be a liturgic blessing of the elements at 5 p.m., followed by reading of the Christmas story from the Gospel of Saint Luke. A come-and-go communion opportunity will follow, with the sacraments served by the pastor. The public may take communion at any time between 5:30 and 7 p.m., and spend as long as they would like in the sanctuary. 

The church offers an open communion, so anyone may partake. There are also sealed sacraments for worshipers with a compromised immune system, such as those who are undergoing chemotherapy. 

Both the Christmas Eve communion and service are open the entire community.

“Everyone is welcome,” the pastor said.

“It’s a time for reflection about the birth of Christ and the meaning it has for us,” said Rev. Combs.

The preacher said communion is clearly an appropriate sacrament with which to celebrate the beginning of the Christmas season. 

“Because of the crucifixion and resurrection the celebration of the birth of Christ has meaning for us,” he said. “That is why we have communion at Christmas.”

The tradition dates back to the Anglican and Roman Catholic churches, and it provides a spiritual connection for the faithful during their most celebrated season.

Rev. Combs reminds us that Advent, the first season of the Christian year, begins four Sundays before Christmas and culminates with the actual beginning of the Christmas season on Dec. 25. The 12 days of Christmas end on Jan. 6, which is traditionally known as the Day of Epiphany. The last day of the Christmas season commemorates the visit of the Magi to the Christ child, and celebrates the son of God as a human being in Jesus Christ. Most congregations celebrate the Day of Epiphany on the Sunday following Christmas. 

“We seem to focus on Advent and what has become the holiday season between Thanksgiving and Christmas, but the true Christmas season doesn’t start until Christmas Day,” explained the pastor.

Combs has five children and he knows that many families want to be home for Christmas Eve, but he says fulfillment from the church’s Christmas Eve communion is truly a holy experience. 

“To be able to go to the church and to think about the birth of Christ and share communion is a wonderful experience,” he said.

Ethel Tucker, a pillar of the church and one of its longest members at age 98, says the Christmas Eve communion is a blessing.

“It has grown every year and I think more people from outside our congregation come every Christmas,” Tucker said. “It is the highlight of our Christmas Eve. The family goes to communion then we all gather at my house for dinner.”

Helen Moore, 97, who has been attending the same Methodist church since childhood, said the tradition has been going on for as long as she can remember. 

“I like to go to the church on Christmas Eve. I think it’s the appropriate place to be,” she said.

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Early-morning crash injures woman

A woman was injured in a single-vehicle crash on US 60 West just over five miles from Marion.

The wrecked happened about 4am this morning and rescue personnel were called to the scene for assistance.

The woman, whose identity has not yet been released, was taken to Livingston Hospital by Crittenden ambulance.

Ridin' Shotgun playing at New Year event

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Storm system leaves mark as it passes

Do not adjust your screen.

The skies above Marion at 4:30 this afternoon turned an eerie orange after a severe storm system passed through, dumping hail, torrential rains and setting off sirens across the county after the National Weather Service issue a tornado warning for the area. There were no reports of a tornado touching down, though.

Water is over the road in several spots across the county, and tress are down. Authorities and rescue squad members are currently responding to a call of a vehicle surrounded by rising water on Axle Creek Road. The driver, however, is not believed to be in immediate danger.

UPDATE 5:70 pm: Authorities and rescue have called off the search for the vehicle, as it could not be found in floodwaters. However, the driver was reportedly earlier taken to safety by her husband.

Moss closing in on scoring milestone

Follow her scoring at the Basketball Blog Site

County under tornado warning until 3:15 pm

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for Crittenden County until 3:15 p.m. based on radar. According to E-911 dispatch, no tornado has been spotted.

Cave In Rock Ferry closed for weather

The Cave In Rock Ferry is closed due to high winds. A line of thunderstorms moving through the region is likely to keep the ferry closed for the remainder of the day.

The ferry is expected to resume service on Thursday morning. 

Tornado watch in effect until 6 pm

One person has already died in Arkansas and several injured in Tennessee related to today's severe weather sweeping across the South. Locally, a tornado watch is in effect until 6 p.m. High winds, flash flooding, hail and tornadoes are possible with the storm system.

As usual, the courthouse will be open as a storm shelter.

The weather is expected to clear around 7 p.m., with isolated storms to rekindle around 9 p.m.

Injury accident on Ky. 91 North

A large truck hauling lumber crashed today on Ky. 91 North.

The driver Chad Howton was slightly injured and his payload was scattered along the highway.

Crittenden County Sheriff's Department was investigating the accident.

Crittenden Press now on newsstands

Find CCES Letters to Santa and Christmas
greetings from our advertisers to their customers
inside this week's issue of The Crittenden Press

Local authorities are concerned about how brazen some criminals are becoming in Crittenden County and the expanding number of burglaries being reported. Deputy Don Perry said residents should be vigilant and call police as soon as they notice something suspicious in their community. A Frances woman was at home asleep the night of Dec. 15 when intruders entered her home and starting taking items outside. At some point, Deputy Ray Agent believes the burglaries were spooked off, perhaps when the elderly homeowner was awakened.

For more on this and the following stories, pick up the current issue of The Crittenden Press:

• Resources lacking for homeless in county.
• Find out who’s been decorating all those cedar trees along roads.
• $50,000 grant for farmers’ market approved.
• Methodist church offers story behind Christmas Eve communion.
• Smithland Mayor Ward dies at 70.
• Lyon County donates to animal shelter.
• Transmission line for rural water district leaking, slated for repair.
• Community Christmas helps dozens with contributions from many.
• Trauma designation paying big dividends for LHHS, community.
• Find a list of all Christmas and New Years public office closings.
• City right-of-way adjusted for jail.
• County gets no bids for snow removal.
• Get a jump on the 2016 Kentucky General Assembly.
• Ridley to forego congressional run.
• KSP ‘SWAT’ team responds to disadvantaged kids.
• Several local students graduate from WKCTC last week.
• Schools save enough energy to power home for 16 years.
• Local grad rate below Kentucky’s.
• FORGOTTEN PASSAGES: Marion Christmas parade quite a spectacle, draws estimated 5,000.
• Christmas by the numbers.
• Clark hangs up ladle at CCES after 32 years.
• CCMS learning center 'hopping.'
• December Rocket Role Models named at CCES.
• OUTDOORS: Hunter Ed looking for new instructors; Rushing retiring.
• SPORTS: Rocket girls unload on Cards with district crown in sights.
• SPORTS: Rocket hopes dashed after leading by 6.
• SPORTS: Rocket football awards presented.

Holiday Issue is at newsstands

The Crittenden Press holiday issue is on newsstands a bit early this week.

Pick up your copy today and find out who decorated the Christmas trees around the county and where you can take Christmas communion tomorrow evening.

This week's issue also includes the money-saving P-G Brand Saver Coupons.

Judge hosts holiday Open House

Family Court Judge Brandi Rogers entertained guests this evening during a Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours Open House at the judge's recently remodeled office on South Main Street in Marion.

City wreck injures two

Two elderly Marion women were sent to the hospital this morning as a result of injuries sustained in a one-vehicle crash at the edge of town just after 10 a.m.

Rev. Lucy Tedrick, a weekly columnist for The Crittenden Press, and a passenger had to be extricated by Crittenden County Rescue Squad before they could receive treatment. Both women were conscious as they were loaded into ambulances. According to witnesses, the passenger is believed to be Frances Rorer, a close friend of Tedrick's.

Tedrick was driving, heading south in Marion on Ky. 91 North (West Bellville Street) when it appears she ran off the right shoulder of the road in a curve and overcorrected, sending the vehicle off the left side of the roadway and overturning. The highway, just inside the city limit, was still wet from overnight rains.

Rescue workers at crash site in town

Rescue and ambulance personnel are working an accident on West Bellville near the former West Side Market.

Early reports are that the vehicle overturned and two people are trapped inside. 

NWS warns of Wednesday weather

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the entire area of western Kentucky is included in a slight risk of severe thunderstorms Wednesday. An enhanced risk of severe storms appears to be for a portion of the area south of Princeton.

At this time, the main areas of concern is for isolated damaging wind gusts over southeast Missouri between daybreak and noon, and more intense thunderstorms (supercells) developing shortly after noon just west of the Land Between the Lakes, then working northeast during the middle and late afternoon. This second area has the potential for thunderstorms to produce damaging winds and hail, as well as isolated tornadoes.

Remember, tomorrow is a big travel day, so many will be on the road.

Home Health Just a Knock Away

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Mysterious Christmas trees showing up

Most of you have heard about the mysterious Christmas trees popping up around the county from Frances and Marion and to Dam 50 and Fords Ferry.

There are about 9 or 10 of these decorated trees at various locations throughout Crittenden County. 

Our reporters have been working this story for a week, trying to solve the who-done-it. 

Don't miss this week's issue of The Press to find out who has been spreading anonymous Holiday Cheer!

Our elves are on it!

Find me, if you can!

The Press Online has an Elf hiding somewhere on the Website.. And there will be one in this week's printed edition of The Crittenden Press.

See if you can find them!

It's our way to feeding this Christmas phenomenon.

Man charged in last week's club burglary

Kentucky State Police think the man in this surveillance photograph is Christopher T. Freeman, 46, of Marion.

They have charged Freeman in connection with a Dec. 14 burglary at Marion Country Club where security cameras caught this image and more video.

Country Club officials say there was a good bit of damage at the club's restaurant, but the burglar got away with little more than a pot roast.

Area Death

Larry Allen "Snake" Herron, 67, of Marion died Saturday at Crittenden Hospital.
He was a member of Marion Second Baptist Church. Gilbert Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Area death

Bro. Shoney Oliver, 80, of Marion died Friday at Crittenden County Health and Rehab. The funeral will be at 1 p.m. Monday at Morgan's Funeral Home in Princeton.

Press closing Thursday, Friday for Christmas

Smithland Mayor Ward dead at 70

Smithland Mayor Joe Ward, 70,  died Saturday, Dec. 12 at Baptist Health of Paducah.

Ward was for many years a self-employed businessman, who operated a farm and home supply store in Livingston County. He also served as Livingston County’s judge-executive from 1999 to 2003.

Babies of 2015

Place a photo of your bundle and joy in 2016's first

issue of the year. Please be sure to include your 

baby's name, birthdate and parents.

Drop them by our office or email them to thepress@the-press.com 

by Dec. 31. If you email, you can pay over the phone 

with your credit card through Jan. 4.

Heritage Hosts Ridin' Shotgun for New Year

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CCES's Clark serenaded at retirement

Student Cutter Singleton played a few tunes to help celebrate the retirement of Crittenden Elementary School cafeteria employee Brenda Clark.

Today she is hanging up the apron for the last time after 32 years at the school.

See next week's newspaper for more about her career and memories at CCES.

Holiday office closings

With Christmas comes a flurry of closings and altered holiday hours at public offices around Crittenden County. A schedule of closings includes:

• Senior center: Closed Dec. 24-28.
• PACS office: Closed Dec. 24-28.
• City hall: Closed Dec. 24-27.
• Judge-executive: Closed Dec. 24-27.
• Circuit clerk: Closed Dec. 24-27.
• County clerk: Closed Dec. 24-27.
• PVA: Closed Dec. 24-27.
• Sheriff: Closed Dec. 24-27.
• Library: Closed Dec. 24-27.
• Extension Service: Closed Dec. 24 through Jan. 1.
• Mineral museum: Closed Dec. 22 through Jan. 2.

Death of Local Interest

Betty Jewel “Da” Lemon, 85, of Louisville, formerly of Marion, died Monday. The funeral is today at Newcomer Funeral Home in Louisville. Burial is tomorrow at at Mapleview Cemetery in Marion.

Starnes honored by West Ky Conference

Crittenden County head football coach Al Starnes received the Joe Russell Distinguished Leadership Award presented Sunday by the West Kentucky Football Conference at its annual awards banquet.

The award is presented annually to the coach who most exemplifies leadership, sportsmanship, ethics and integrity; and in doing so, has instilled those attributes in his staff and players.

The coach said he was humbled and very grateful to be selected for the highly coveted honor. Starnes said the recognition is a reflection of the entire Rocket football program, and that he appreciates the dedication and dignity in which the entire staff and players display on a daily basis whether on or off the football field.

Starnes was also named the WKC’s Coach of the Year for all classes.

He also recently was honored by the Kentucky Coaches Association as Coach of the Year Class A in the First Region.

Courthouse closed for lunch Friday

Crittenden County Courthouse will be closed from noon to 1 p.m. Friday for county government’s annual Christmas dinner.

New Year Party at MCC Heritage

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KSP searching for inmate from Marion

UPDATED, 2:45 p.m.: Troopers from KSP Posts 1 and 2 received information on the escapee’s and located them traveling on Interstate 69 in Caldwell County. Troopers conducted a felony traffic stop on the vehicle and took Everett E. Tabor and Chancelor A. Britt into custody at 12:28 P.M. Tabor was charged with Escape 2nd degree, Britt was charged with a parole violation. Randi N. Essawi, 30, of Princeton was in the vehicle and charged with facilitation of escape second degree. They are currently being transported to the McCracken County Jail, where they will be lodged. Trooper Jody Cash is continuing his investigation.

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At approximately 4:08 a.m. today, the Keaton Correctional Institution in Paducah contacted Kentucky State Police Post 1 in Mayfield about a missing inmate. The staff advised after a head count search, they discovered Everett E. Tabor of Marion was unaccounted for. 

He is described as a 33-year-old white male, 6-1 with short brown hair and brown eyes. It is unknown as to what Tabor was wearing at the time of his escape. Tabor is serving time for trafficking in methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Chancelor A. Britt, 21 of Byrdstown, Tenn., a parolee staying at the Keaton Correctional Institution, also went missing. Britt is describes as a white male, 5-11, 143 pounds, blue eyes and strawberry blonde hair. It is unknown as to what Britt was wearing when he left. Britt is on parole for a wanton endangerment conviction.

Kentucky State Police is investigating the escape. If anyone has any contact with these subjects, contact Post 1 at (800) 222-5555.

Sen. Ridley will not run for Congress

State Sen. Dorsey Ridley (D-Henderson) announced today that he will not run for Congress.

“I was honored to have been considered as a candidate for the 1st Congressional District, but after much thought and consideration, my family and I felt that it is not the right time in my life to run for this office,” Ridley said.

“I look forward to continuing my service in the Kentucky state Senate to move our state forward,” he added.

Ridley, who represents the 4th Senatorial District, has been a member of the Senate since 2004. The 4th District includes Caldwell, Crittenden, Henderson, Livingston, Union and Webster counties.

Monday last chance to mail cards

Monday will be the last day to mail Christmas cards from Marion and expect delivery by the holiday to locations in western Kentucky.

All post offices will be closed Christmas Day. Marion Post Office will be closing at noon on Christmas Eve, but will re-open on Saturday, Dec. 26.

What's news this week in Crittenden County...

Cash Express and Marion Police Department 
collected Christmas toys for children this week.

After years of delaying the inevitable, the City of Marion is now facing an ultimatum from Frankfort that would require an investment of millions of dollars to upgrade an insufficient wastewater treatment system. Sewer rates could nearly double to pay for the project. Kentucky’s Energy and Environment Cabinet claims the city is “chronically non-compliant” with environmental protection regulations by releasing millions of gallons of untreated wastewater into the ecosystem at its treatment facility on the northern edge of town.

For more on this and the following stories, pick up a copy of this week's issue of The Crittenden Press:

• Grand jury indicts 8 on a variety of felony, misdemeanor charges.
• Threat locks down schools, investigation ongoing.
• Mineral museum gets $357K Christmas gift for renovations.
• Burglar hits country club, steals pot roast.
• Ex-CCHS principal pens children’s book.
• Lottery funds helping dozens of Crittenden County students.
• Dec. 31 final day to cross party lines for spring election.
• CCES K-PREP award winners listed.
• JUDGE'S JOURNAL: Judge-executive closes out year with state of the county.
• PASTOR'S PEN: Immigration debate requires common sense.
• Public office hours altered for holiday.
• Seniors invited to see holiday lights.
• Birdhouses made from old license plates benefit vets.
• IN PICTURES: 'Uncle Myron' play a big hit.
• IN PICTURES: Salem Christmas parade delivers.
• Probation revoked for two; judge sends man to prison.
• FORGOTTEN PASSSAGES: Take a look back at the year 1985.
• SPORTS: Girls basketball team turns things around in a day.
• SPORTS: Boys basketball looking for first win.
• OUTDOORS: Details emerge on KDFWR plan to limit Big Rivers bowhunting.

Holidays alter Press deadlines, printing

Due to an early holiday printing schedule, 5 p.m. Friday will be the advertising deadline for next week’s issue of The Crittenden Press.

Also, there will be no issue of The Press the final week of this year. Instead, any pertinent news or announcements will appear in the Dec. 29 issue of The Early Bird. Due to the holidays, all deadlines for that publication will be 10 a.m. Tuesday. The newspaper will return Jan. 7 with our annual look at the top stories of the previous year.

Author A.Y. Hodge at Marion book signing

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Water District holds special meeting

Crittenden-Livingston Water District Board of Directors will meet at 6 pm tonight at the Salem office to discuss hiring a contractor to repair a transmission line leak underneath the Cumberland River near Pinckneyville in Livingston County.

Driver's test change for Friday

The time for driver permit testing has changed this week. Anyone needing to take the Kentucky Driver's License written exam may take it between 1pm and 2pm Friday. This is a half-hour time shift from the normal schedule and is only for this week.

Nurses pledge to get you better

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Like our sweaters ?

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Area death

Nelda Frances Phelps, 91, of Marion died today at Crittenden Health and Rehabilitation Center. Gilbert Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Police looking for restaurant burglar

Do you know this alleged burglar?
Call Police at (270) 965-3500

Kentucky State Police are investigating a burglary that occurred at 1am Monday morning at the Marion Country Club Heritage Restaurant.

An intruder busted out a window to gain entrance into the dining room, which is on the second floor of the building above the club's pro shop.

There was other damage, but the burglar got away with very little loot. Among the most valuable items taken was a pot roast.

Alec Pierce, the restaurant manager, said garbage bags and digital scales were among the things taken. There was a good bit of damage inside the restaurant where the intruder busted the empty cash register and ransacked the facility. He also tried to disable a surveillance camera, but it had already captured video and still images (one of which is shown here).

Anyone with information can call police (270) 965-3500 and remain anonymous.

Consider a gift subscription for Christmas

Area death

Max Berryman Bynum, 76, of Fredonia died Friday. A graveside service is at 1pm today at Fredonia Cemetery.

Play's encore performance 2:30 Sunday

A family is helped to see the true meaning of Christmas in
the Community Arts Foundation's play at Fohs Hall.

Uncle Myron's Christmas Review, starring 30 local children, opened Saturday night at Fohs Hall to rave reviews.

The nearly 1-hour production will have its encore performance at 2:30pm Sunday at Fohs Hall.

The cast is also performing the play at the elementary school next week.

Admission Sunday is free, but donations are accepted.

CAST AND CREW:

Uncle Myron - Natalie Boone

Father Alex - Paul Combs

Mother Annie - McKenna Myers 

Daughter Jenny - Kailyn Stokes 

Daughter Michelle - Hailey Belt

Little Stanley - Carly Porter

Little Alex - Cutter Singleton

Billy Ann - Lyli Wesmolan

Ornament Shiner - Sophia Holliman

Ornament Shimmer - Kylie Bloodworth

Ornament Digital - Aria Kirk

Ornament Sparkles - Elliot Evans

Ornament Glitter - Elle McDaniel

Ornament Bulbo - Andrea Federico

Ornament Blinker - Morgan Piper

Carpet Queen - Lacey Boone

Carpet King - Cash Singleton

Wacky Wally - Cutter Singleton

Pitchman - Aria Kirk

Mailman - Anna Boone

Sailor - Jack Porter

Sailor - Caleb Combs

Sailor - Hudson Stokes

Sailor - Lacey Boone

Sailor - Cash Singleton

Sailor - Anna Boone

Stage Crew - Anthony Federico

Baby Jesus - Blake Beck

Mary - Anna Boone

Joseph - Bennett McDaniel

Director - Karen Nassari

Assistant Director - Phyllis Sykes

Assistant Director - Becky Tyner-Belt

Assistant Director - Gaye Porter

Student Director - Jessica McConnell

Salem hosts annual Lighted Christmas Parade

Salem's annual Lighted Christmas Parade drew a big crowd tonight.

See this week's printed edition of The Crittenden Press for more from the parade.

Play opens tonight at Fohs Hall

AUDIO

UNCLE MYRON'S CHRISTMAS REVIEW
CLICK HERE FOR PODCAST

Fohs Hall Community Arts Foundation will present its annual children's Christmas Play at 6:30pm Saturday (tonight) and 2:30pm Sunday. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

There are about 30 young members of the cast and crew.

Click here to listen to a podcast promoting the event.

For more photos, visit our Facebook photo gallery.