Fall forest fire hazard season under way

The Kentucky Division of Forestry (KDF) is again preparing for an active wildfire season. Each year, nearly 1,500 wildfires occur in the state of Kentucky based on the 10-year average.

Wildfires in Kentucky threaten and cause damage to homes, private property, trees and landscapes. More importantly, they place lives at risk, including those of firefighters.  Most of Kentucky’s wildfires are preventable, the result of arson and careless open-burning (burning of trash, debris and brush).  People start wildfires and people can prevent them.

State law restricts open burning within 150 feet of any woodland or brushland between the daylight hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. during the fall and spring forest fire hazard seasons, which run from Oct. 1 to Dec. 15 and from Feb. 15 to April 30, 2017, respectively.

Division Director Bill Steele said hardwood leaf litter is the most common source of combustible material in Kentucky forests. 
"Unlike western fires that burn on the ground and in the canopy, Kentucky’s fires usually stay on the forest floor and burn only what is already down,” Steele said. “Beginning in October, fresh new dead leaf litter begins to fall in the forest.”

During the October through December fire hazard season, winds become erratic due to the coming seasonal change and Kentucky also typically sees lower relative humidity (RH) numbers than in summer.  When RH numbers get below 25 percent, bad fires can occur.

By restricting burning until after 6 p.m. during the fall and spring, winds are typically lower and the humidity is higher, making outdoor fires more manageable and less likely to escape.  Arson is a felony and it’s everyone’s responsibility to take proper precautions when burning.

Residents should call the Division of Air Quality at )502) 782-6592 to learn about other specific regulations before burning anything.

Conrad's 2-Day Sale Starts Today

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Bus Drivers Wanted !

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Area Death

Rudy Dwayne Cobb, 51, of Burna died after a tractor-trailer accident early Wednesday in Illinois. Boyd Funeral Directors and Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.

Jackson School Road re-opens

Jackson School Road in southern Crittenden County has re-opened to traffic after passing an inspection today.

"I have just gotten a call from the state bridge inspector, George Crump, and he has approved the re-opening of Jackson School Road," Judge-Executive Perry Newcom said this afternoon. "The bridge approaches will remain gravel through winter to allow for settling prior to being paved next spring."

Viewpoint: Editorial from Your Newspaper

COMMENTARY FROM THE CRITTENDEN PRESS

There's perhaps no address more associated with helping local people in need than 402 N. Walker St. in Marion, but Crittenden County Assistance Center to some is apparently little different than Crittenden County Convenience Center. 

Sometimes referred to as simply the PACS office, the building that was once a public health department is actually home to much more. True, it is the site to access services from Pennyrile Allied Community Services, but it's also where Crittenden County Food Bank and the local American Red Cross call headquarters. 

Notice there's no mention of a garbage collection center. Unfortunately, some people feel that because the offices at the building accept donations for distribution to the less fortunate in our community, it's a good place to dump off their discarded items. Surely, somebody can use those clothes from the 1970s you cleaned out of Grandma's basement, right? 

And who couldn't make use of a washer or dryer that no longer works or a broken rocking horse for children? What about a piano? 

These unsolicited donations help no one. In fact, they cost the very people some intend to help with their junk. Because most of it is unfit for distribution, at the county taxpayers' expense, a crew is forced to make its way to the center and cart off other people's trash. And those workers haul it to the convenience center, the same place where the dumper was happy to avoid and save a few bucks. 

Recently, the county needed about 10 man-hours to clear away the mound of useless goods piled at the back door of the assistance center that included, yes, a piano. Such a move speaks highly of the motivation of the dumper. Just not for their discretion. 

A good rule of thumb? If it's too worn out to wear, too dirty to clean up, too broken to fix or it's something you wouldn't be caught dead with, it's not appropriate to believe it will help others. 

That’s our words, not the center’s, so feel free to call the center at (270) 965-4763 or stop by for a more technical definition of what helps. 

The less fortunate, the underprivileged and those down on their luck aren't a stray dog you leave scraps for each night. They are deserving of the same respect you give your neighbor, the person in the pew behind yours on Sunday morning or your own flesh and blood. True, there are people who work the system, but let the staff at the center do the needs-vetting. For those who still don't get it, dumping off your items at the center – or anywhere – under cover of night – or anytime – is illegal. 

That's right, if you get caught, you can face a stiff fine, jail time or both. Crittenden County Assistance Center encourages donations, and, in fact, needs them to carry out the various missions of the organizations who call it home. Cash donations can feed the hungry, help pay a heating bill for a senior on a fixed income or send a fan to a home without air in the depths of summer. 

Donations of new or gently used clothes can give a kid in tatters a boost of confidence or get a family back on their feet after a house fire. Furniture, toys and even appliances are accepted, but only if they are in once piece and working. By no means do we intend to discourage anyone from giving. Quite the opposite. 

We urge you to give more, but let it come from the heart, not a desire to save a few bucks at the dump. If you are uncertain how to help or want to find out current and pressing needs, just contact the center. They will thank you. The people you will help thank you. And the taxpayers tired of cleaning up others' junk thank you.

Friday deadline for WMA drawing

Tomorrow is the deadline to apply for archery and rifle quota hunts on the Big Rivers Wildlife Management Area in Crittenden and Union counties.

The archery hunt period is Oct. 10 through Nov. 30.

The gun hunt is Nov. 5-6.

Go to http://fw.ky.gov/Hunt/Pages/Quota-Hunts.aspx to apply.

Nunn Switch Road closing for repairs

Nunn Switch Road in northeast Crittenden County will be closed for up to three weeks beginning Monday for replacement of approaches to a bridge damaged during summer flooding. The closure will be at Hoods Creek about 2 miles southeast of the U.S. 60 East junction.

Meantime, Jackson School Road bridge has been completed and is currently awaiting the bridge inspector to approve the opening of that road. At this time, it remains closed to through-traffic.

Highway 60 Yard Sale a traffic concern

Motorists who plan to travel along US 60 between Paducah and the Louisville area should be aware of the 200-mile Highway 60 Yard Sale today through Sunday.

The yard sale runs along US 60 through 8 Kentucky counties along the Ohio River.

Those participating in the yard sale are reminded to park off the roadway and avoid blocking the view of oncoming traffic at intersections.

If you plan to set up a booth, please select a location that provides adequate off-street parking.

Motorists traveling US 60 should be alert for slowing and stopping traffic between daylight and dark each day of the yard sale.  Appropriate caution is required.

BIG Two-Day Friday-Saturday

Price Slashing at Conrad's Harvest Foods

Friday and Saturday

DON'T MISS THE FIRST TWO-DAY SALE

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

Click Here for Sale Items

Traffic restricted along Ledbetter bridge

A contractor for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has placed a work zone lane restriction on the US 60 Tennessee River Bridge at Ledbetter.

The lane restriction is to allow corrective work on wiring for roadway lighting on the bridge.  The work is expected to be in place through Thursday or Friday.

All traffic in this work zone is moved to the right-hand or driving lane to allow work along the median barrier wall on the bridge.

As a reminder, the US 60 Tennessee River Bridge at Ledbetter has a 45 mile per hour speed limit.

The US 60 Tennessee River Bridge is at US 60 McCracken County mile point 20.45, just east of the US 60 intersection with US 62.   The bridge is at US 60 Livingston County mile point 0.0.

The US 60 Tennessee River Bridge opened to traffic in July 2013.  Also known as The Ledbetter Bridge, the 3,690 foot strucutre carries approximately 8,000 vehicles per day between McCracken County and Livingston County.  The 1800 foot warren truss with no verticles is believed to be the longest sigle through truss span in the world.

Appropriate caution is required where equipment, flaggers, and maintenance personnel are along the roadway in close proximity to traffic flow.

Winner of KSP truck raffle announced

Radcliff, Ky., resident Bryce Shumate (left) received the keys to a new 2016 Dodge Ram 1500 Big Horn Crew Cab 4x4 from Kentucky State Police Commissioner Rick Sanders (center) and Tpr. Jonathan Biven, director of the Trooper Island Camp. Shumate won the vehicle in a raffle held to benefit Trooper Island, a free summer camp for underprivileged boys and girls age 10-12 operated by the Kentucky State Police on Dale Hollow Lake in Clinton County. It is financed entirely by donations, no public funds are used. Each year, the camp hosts approximately 700 children, providing good food, fresh air, recreation, guidance and structured, esteem-building activities designed to build good citizenship and positive relationships with law enforcement officers.

This Weekend in Downtown Marion!

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

Woman's Club honors unsung matriarchs of community

If all goes as planned, there will be at least one layer of asphalt on the new U.S. 641 highway between Marion and Fredonia sometime in November. At least that is what the top District 1 highway engineer from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet told a group of Crittenden County economic development leaders Monday.

For this complete story and the following headlines, pick up a copy of this week's issue of The Crittenden Press:

• Festival booth offers ‘Damsel in Defense’ tips for all women
• Full schedule of Pumpkin Festival events
• Nunn Switch closing for repairs
• OPINION: Courtroom one of last bastions of decorum
• OPINION: America: Can we keep what thousands died for?
• Former miner turns to pasta for career move
• Blood drive will help high school
• IN PICTURES: CCES August Rocket Role Models
• IN PICTURES: CCHS Class of 1952 reunion
• IN PICTURES: CCHS Class of 1956 reunion
• Called-in threat to ‘blow up’ courthouses in Crittenden, Caldwell clears buildings
• IN PICTURES: Frances festival
• Bluegrass festival has plenty local connections
• 1st responders honored
• Fall burning limits start Sunday
• SBA offers aid to some affected by summer storms
• Band tuned up for rest of season
• Critical crops fairing as September ends
• Motorcycle wreck hurts 1 on U.S. 60
• J-E’s daughter hurt last week in wreck
• County unemployment up, Ky. jobless rate below 5 percent
• Local flu clinics set for October
• FORGOTTEN PASSAGES: County full of nature’s wonders, beauty
• Caldwell historical society to meet Oct. 6 at Princeton library
• Kentucky’s Southern Baptists are putting more than ever in plates
• DEFEW'S VIEWS: Pickin’ pawpaws worth effot
• School district employees honored as Rocket Way recipients
• Myers earns KSP recognition

Sale Starts Today !

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Auction in Marion Today!

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Trick or Treat on Main Coming Up Soon!

Trick or Treat on Main has become an anticipated annual event in Crittenden County, and it’s just a few weeks before all the little ghouls and goblins hit the streets. 

Marion Main Street Inc. offers this event to children 12 and under. 

“There is a great safety aspect that goes along with this event,” said Main Street Director Susan Alexander. “The kids can trick-or-treat in the daylight hours and receive those tasty treats from businesses that we all know and trust.” 

Alexander works with the downtown merchants and other offices to offer candy for the event. This year's event will be on All Hallows’ Eve, which, of course, is Monday, Oct. 31. It will run from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Halloween day in downtown Marion. 

Children can begin at the Marion Tourism & Commerce Center, and all participating businesses will have a flyer posted in their window or door. “This event has continued to grow over the years and everyone seems to look forward to bringing the children out to visit businesses in Marion,” Alexander said. “One of the key elements of the Marion Main Street organization is to promote downtown business, and this event brings out the parents along with the children. 

“We feel it is a safe way to enjoy Halloween, gather up the candy and have fun. Our hope is that parents will also think of these businesses that are furnishing treats and return to shop or trade with them in the future.”

Yard Sale Promo... Contact Tourism Dpt.

FUN FUN FUN Saturday at CCES

Grill on hold for now

See this week's printed edition of The Crittenden Press

for further details

Nurses Wanted at LHHS

Baby Up : Tonight in Marion!

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Auction Wednesday

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CCMS SBDM meets this afternoon

The regular Crittenden County Middle School SBDM meeting will be at 3:15 today (Monday, September 26) at the school.

Schedule altered at garbage center

Crittenden County Convenience Center, known as the county's trash dump, has altered its hours. The center has shaved a half-hour off its schedule for Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. It began its new 8 a.m.-to-3:30 p.m. schedule on those days last Friday. The center is manned by Crittenden County Detention Center staff and work release inmates. Jailer Robbie Kirk said the dump will remain open 8 a.m. to noon on Wednesday and Saturday. It is closed on Sunday.

Courthouse offices closed Saturday

The courthouse offices of Crittenden Circuit Clerk and Sheriff’s Department will be closed Saturday, Oct. 1 during the Pumpkin Festival.

Motorcyclist injured in U.S. 60 crash

UPDATE
The Kentucky State Police is investigating a one vehicle, injury-collision that occurred on US60 at approximately the 15-mile marker on Friday at 4:38 p.m.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Stoney Knight, 60, of Henderson was operating a 2000 Harley Davidson motorcycle westbound on U.S. 60. Mr. Knight lost control of his motorcycle coming out of a curve. Knight went off the roadway unable to correct himself. Mr. Knight was ejected from the motorcycle and both he and the motorcycle came to rest off the right side of the roadway. Knight’s motorcycle had severe damage from the collision.

Knight was transported via helicopter to Deaconess Hospital in Evansville, Ind., for treatment. He was not wearing his helmet.

Mattoon Volunteer Fire Department, Crittenden County EMS, Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department and Air Evac assisted KSP.

ORIGINAL POST FRIDAY AFTERNOON
A motorcyclist was seriously injured in a crash just south of Mattoon on US 60 East Friday afternoon about 4:30pm.

The injured biker was flown by AirEvac to a nearby hospital. No other information was immediately available.

Library seeking grant for expansion

FROM THE CRITTENDEN PRESS, SEPT. 15, 2106
Undersized and in need of updating, Crittenden County Public Library is seeking a state grant to help fund the first construction at the facility since it was built 41 years ago. Director Regina Merrick said the $2.5 million project, if approved, will help the library better serve the public in a number of ways, including improved access to the building and compartmentalizing areas of special interest inside.

"CCPL has strived to provide services for the past 40 years in our facility, but as the years have passed, our ability to meet the community’s needs have become more difficult," Merrick said. "With the proposed addition and renovation of the public library, I feel that we can be a vital partner in the growth of our community."

This effort marks the second time the board of trustees has elected to pursue money from the Public Library Facility Construction (PLFC) Fund for expansion to bring the building up to current state standards and meet patrons' changing expectations of libraries. The application for the grant will be submitted next month and a decision from the Kentucky Department for Library and Archives (KDLA) should be known by the end of the year.

Though the original architecture of the library has stood the test of time aesthetically, the structure is four decades old and was built for the needs of the mid-1970s. Outside of regular maintenance and work to shore up the building after settling several years ago, there has been no construction at the site. In fact, many of the young children who attended Story Hour when the building first opened are now bringing their grandchildren enrolled in the reading program to a facility that remains virtually the same as 41 years ago.

"Our library was built as a state-of-the-art building in 1975. Since then, the community’s needs have changed," Merrick said. "Better access to technology, more meeting spaces, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) access to the building and educational opportunities for children and adults are all part of the plan for an expanded library."

More programming for adults and young adults, in particular, is one of the needs a larger, modernized library can better meet. And the board of trustees is also looking to add evening and weekend hours to better serve the public, even if the grant is rejected.

Daryl Tabor, president of the five-member governing board, said financing the project would not call for any additional tax revenue nor jeopardize the library's current financial stability. The library currently has no debt or budgeted capital expenditures.

The board plans to contribute $100,000 from savings and borrow $2.4 million. The annual debt service would be about $185,000 for 20 years. As proposed, $165,000 would come from PLFC funds, with the balance from the local library. About three-quarters of that $20,000 should be met with additional tax revenue from a state-mandated increase this year in county property assessments.

"The library is bursting at the seams and desperately needs more room to accommodate the needs of our patrons, and this is the right time to seek expansion," Tabor said. "The beauty of this proposal is that taxpayers will be on the hook for nothing extra. It's long overdue, and we hope KDLA will see how this project is a win-win for everyone."

The public library was founded in 1952 with only $3,200 – $2,900 from the state and $300 from Crittenden Fiscal Court. When the library taxing district was approved by county voters seven years later, the statute under which it was created set the tax levy at 5 cents per $100 of assessment on property. Unlike other local taxing districts, the rate cannot be changed; and outside of annual state aid check, the library receives no other public money.

For several years, the library has planned for an expansion. While board members have changed during that period, Merrick, as director has kept the proposal on course. Though the grant request was not approved two years ago, she believes the library stands a strong chance of catching the eyes of decision-makers in Frankfort.

“When we did not receive the applied-for grant in 2014, we were told that we needed to think bigger. We needed to plan for space that would take care of our needs for the next 20 years" explained Merrick. "We have the land in place, and we are not planning a huge change in lifestyle, budget-wise. I think that will appeal to the grant committee.”

This year, there are three other libraries in our region asking for assistance from the $1 million pot of PLFC money. None, however, have what KDLA considers sub-standard facilities when it comes to space and parking.

Currently, the local library serves 27,000-plus patrons annually with only 5,139 square feet under roof, ranking it 109th of 119 library systems in Kentucky. It has less than a third of the space of Caldwell County's library and is smaller than those in all surrounding counties. KDLA standards call for 7,000 square feet in a county our size (population under 25,000).

The proposal calls for an additional 3,950 square feet to include special areas, office space, a garage for the bookmobile and a covered porch. Those special areas would include separate enclosed reading and genealogy rooms, an isolated children's area and additional meeting space.

"Currently, we cannot have more than one program at a time, because beyond the meeting room, the rest of the library is wide open," Merrick explained. "The expansion of the current meeting room, an additional meeting space and the other separate spaces will allow at least three meetings or programs at one time.

"To be able to offer an adult program and have space to have a children’s program at the same time?  Unprecedented in our library."

Furthermore, access to the library would be greatly improved through the addition of 20 off-street parking spots and increased handicap-accessibility. Currently, the library relies on only a couple off-street parking spots for patrons. Curbside parking is minimal and is often overwhelmed by courthouse patrons, particularly on days court is in session. And parking and access for disabled patrons is almost nonexistent.

"This will change the way the library is used for years to come," Merrick said of the overall plan.

Crittenden County Public Library has an annual materials circulation – books, audio, video, magazines, etc. – of more than 41,000, and its 28,000-plus books give Crittenden County a higher books-to-resident ratio than all but 26 of the library systems in the commonwealth. It hosted 7,200 public Internet sessions (not including WiFi) last year and 870 children enrolled in programs. It ranked 79th in visits per capita and 58th in circulation per user despite having the 11th smallest building in Kentucky.

Merrick is planning an open house at the library for sometime next month in order to give the public a view of the expansion plans and see how it will benefit the community.

The board of trustees includes Tabor, Vice President Brenda Underdown, Treasurer George Sutton, Secretary Dulcie Hardin and Carol Harrison. The board meets at 5 p.m. the fourth Thursday of every month in the library's meeting room.

Area Deaths

V. Frances Ramage, 90, of Fort Mill, S.C., formerly of Niagara Falls, N.Y., died Thursday. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is in charge of arrangements.

Madison LaShae Conger, 15, of Crestview, Fla., formerly of Marion, died Tuesday from injuries suffered in an automobile accident in Florida. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is in charge of arrangements.

Edith Mae Wheatcroft, 96, of Marion died Thursday. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is in charge of arrangements.

Community Baby Shower!

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Lori is doing our catering!

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Benefit Glow Ball Golf Saturday

Crittenden County's high school golf team is hosting a Glow Ball Rocket Golf Scramble tomorrow (Saturday, Sept. 24) at The Heritage Golf Course at Marion Country Club.

One glow ball will be provided for each player and others can be purchased. Nine holes will be played before dark and nine more after dark. There will be a meal and a number of contests associated with this event such as putting and closest to the pin.

Cost is $75 for a 2-person team. All proceeds benefit the CCHS golf program.

Tee time is 3pm.

For information, or to register, call golf coach Vicki Hatfield at (270) 285-3566.

This event is open to the public.

Circuit clerk plans to adjust Saturday schedule

Beginning Jan. 1,  Crittenden County Circuit Clerk Melissa Guill will be reducing her weekend office hours. After the first of the new year, the office will be open 9-11 a.m. only one Saturday per month. Guill said that will be the first Saturday unless weather, holidays or other circumstances close the courthouse that particular weekend.

“No matter what, the office will be open one Saturday a month,” Guill said in a social media post seeking input from the public.

Until 2017, however, the office will remain open 9-11 a.m. each Saturday unless affected by a holiday or weather. It will also be closed Oct. 1 for the annual Pumpkin Festival.

Guill said the change will address multiple concerns, including the safety of the lone deputy who staffs the office on Saturday. It will also reduce the number of compensatory hours accrued on weekends. Though Guill is elected locally, hers is a state office, and Frankfort requires comp time to be kept to a minimum.

The circuit clerk said Saturday traffic for licensing at her office is rather low, and the types of transactions available on Saturdays are already limited because Frankfort offices are not open on weekends. For basic renewals, she is willing to make arrangements for anyone who cannot make it to the office during regular business hours.

“I want to make this change as easy as possible for the public and my office,” Guill said.

Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department, according to office Deputy Mandi Harrision, currently has no plans to change its weekend hours. The office is open every Saturday unless holidays, weather or special circumstances like the Pumpkin Festival close the courthouse.

Mineral museum free on Saturday

The Ben E. Clement Mineral Museum in Marion will open its doors for free admission Saturday as part of Smithsonian magazine’s Museum Day Live! On this day only, participating museums across the United States emulate the spirit of the Smithsonian Institution’s Washington, D.C.-based facilities, which offer free admission every day. Those museums wil open their doors for free to people who download a Museum Day Live! ticket. 

“The mineral museum is proud to be a part of Smithsonian magazine’s 12th annual Museum Day Live! because it allows us to share the beauty of the museum with everyone,” said Tina Walker, museum director.

The mineral museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

The Museum Day Live! ticket is available for download at Smithsonian.com/museumday. Visitors who present the ticket get free entrance for two. One ticket per household is permitted.

Injury accident on 365

Emergency personnel have responded to an injury accident on Ky. 365 in Crittenden County about three miles from the Union County. The accident happened shortly after 5pm.

Preliminary reports are that two vehicles were involved in the crash.

At least one person was taken to Union County Hospital where AirEvac was to be waiting.

No driver testing in county Oct. 7

There will be no driver’s testing, written or road, on Friday, Oct. 7, per Crittenden Circuit Clerk Melissa Guill.

Area deaths

Rocky Allen Darnell, 61, of Marion died Saturday. Myers Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Robert M. Conyer, 73, of Marion died Wednesday. Gilbert Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Courthouse closed due to threat

Crittenden County Courthouse has been closed due to a threat. It was evacuated shortly after 2:30pm Thursday.

Sheriff Wayne Agent said the courthouse was shut down and all county and state employees sent home for the day. The closing was done as a precautionary measure, the sheriff said, and the courthouse will reopen on schedule in the morning.

A yet unidentified caller made the threat from a 911 call that went through central dispatching at Marion City Hall. The caller threatened to "shoot up the courthouse," the sheriff said.

There is some indication that the call came in from another county. Agent said investigators are working on tracking down the caller and authorities have placed special security at the courthouse.

Porter play in Softball World Series

Jeff Porter

Marion’s Jeff Porter will be playing this weekend in the USSSA Class B Men’s Softball World Series in Florida.

A long-time, high-level amateur softball player, Porter is a pitcher for the Indiana-based Slayer (KB Construction).

He hopes his play this week will help propel him into the higher Class A next season and also to play Senior League Softball (49-over).

Saturday in Frances

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Monday in Marion

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Want to be on US 60 to sell?

SPACE FOR RENT for US 60 Yard Sale

At former J-Dub’s Pizza on US 60 East, Marion. 

Call (270) 704-2361 or  (270) 704-0022.

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

At least one neighbor of Crittenden County Detention Center wants to see its new restricted custody center shut down. On Monday, the City of Marion was asked to force that closure, though that’s not likely to happen. Mike Harris and Rosanne Chandler turned to the council at its monthly meeting for help with complaints related to the newly-opened annex built to house low-risk work-release inmates.

For the complete story, more from city council and the following headlines, pick up a copy of this week's issue of The Crittenden Press:

• Flu an early guest in Kentucky, shot clinics scheduled
• UK studying county road safety
• Repairs made, but roads still worry for magistrates
• Kenergy rate increase approved, but bills will decrease
• EDITORIAL: Illegal dumping at ‘PACS office’ helping no one
• Schedule altered at garbage center
• Mineral museum free on Saturday
• Historical society sells cabin
• All-local meal newest annual event
• Christmas charity deadline nearing
• Trick or Treat on Main set for Halloween day
• Agent going for Walk to discover cure for MS
• IN PICTURES: Football homecoming 2016
• VFW remembers POW/MIAs
• Local adults win at Senior Games
• Hampton visits Siemens touting Ky. manufacturing
• Local 1st-responders honored
• FORGOTTEN PASSAGES: Closing day at schools a big deal for students, parents, community
• New compilation of marriages available for local genealogists
• SPORTS: Rockets celebrate homecoming with end to losing skid
• SPORTS: KHSAA fines McLean
• SPORTS: Fall sports wrap-up
• Sorority honors members at tea
• Farmers donates to booster club
• Garden Club to consolidate two events

Fire in Webster County

Crittenden County Volunteer Fire Department responded to aid Providence firemen in battling a structure fire on Green Road near the City of Providence. By the time most of the Crittenden volunteers arrived, the fire had been extinguished.

KHSAA fines McLean County

McLean County High School’s football team was fined $1,300 and its coaches must complete a National High School Federation course in managing behavior of student-athletes prior to its ninth game of the season or face further sanctions.

The Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) handed down its final ruling today on the incident that occured during the Crittenden vs. McLean County football game on Sept. 2.

As documented by the KHSAA, McLean head coach Zach Wagner’s conduct was found to be lacking. The KHSAA said the incident “quickly escalated into a display of unsporting conduct by the McLean head coach that clearly does not appear to be intended to de-escalate the situation.”

McLean County has also been ordered to conduct a comprehensive review of sportsmanship expectations within the athletic program and report to the KHSAA on the completion of this task.

Additionally, principals at both schools must review all game management practices and determine any changes necessary to prevent recurrence of this type of situation.

Further, the KHSAA accepted McLean’s self-imposed one-game suspensions for 17 players who crossed the field during the incident. They also upheld the on-field suspensions of two McLean players and Crittenden County assistant coach Jeremy Wheeler.

Read The Entire Final Ruling By Clicking Here

Next Week through Marion!

Area Deaths

John Samuel Madden Jr., 55, of Brandenburg, Ky., died Friday, Sept. 16, 2016. Boyd Funeral Directors and Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.

Lisa Joyce Sizemore, 61, of Marion died Friday. Beshear Funeral Home in Dawson Springs is in charge of arrangements.

Teresa Faye Shuecraft, 50, of Salem died Thursday at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville.  Boyd Funeral Directors and Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.

Seeking Nurses

Friday's Homecoming Court

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Crittenden County High School crowned its homecoming king and queen Friday night before the annual homecoming football game, which Crittenden won 28-6 over Webster County. The homecoming court was (from left) freshmen Jagger Hayes and Shelby Cooper; juniors Christian White and Kaitlyn Hicks; seniors Dylan Smith and Alexis Tabor; Queen Jesse Brewer and King Charlie Johnson; seniors Emily Tinsley and Will Perkins; sophomores Ashley Wheeler and Devon Nesbitt; 2015 Queen and King, Kali Travis and Tyler Coleman. The flower girl was Lilly Fernlund and crown bearer was Josh James.

Revival in Fredonia

Watch for 1-lane traffic on I-24

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will have a work zone lane restriction on the westbound lanes of Interstate 24 at the Livingston-Marshall County Line to allow repairs to a joint on the Tennessee River Bridge. The work, with a one-lane restriction, will last about 4 hours this morning.

Starts Sunday

Youth Campers Enjoy Volleyball Clinic

Lady Rocket Volleyball Camp

Youngsters who recently attended the after-school volleyball camp at Rocket Arena were (front from left) Emily Hall, Jaylee Champion, Alivia Cowsert,  Aubrey Grau, Mary Rachel Stephens, Gracie Orr,  Aerie Suggs,  Hattie Hatfield, Addison Hendrickson, Pam Bearden, Sage Winternheimer, Ashleigh Dunkerson, (middle) Taylor Davis, Hannah Tyrie, Carly Porter, Emily Mattingly, Haylee Perrin, Andrea Frederico, Riley Remus, Emily Adams, Sofie Watson, Riley Smith, Katie Perryman, Keira Chaney, Jada Hayes, Emily West, (back) Coach Rheanda Dunn, Alexa Kidd, Ellie McGowan, Gabby Taft, Hannah Bell, Alaina Cowsert, Kyron Hicks,  Alyssa West, Madison Champion, Jaycie Driver, Paige Gilbert, Kenlee Perryman, Kaitlyn Hicks,  Brandy Book,  Kyonna Ross, Lilly Gardner, Lilly Newcom, Cameron Howard, Southern Pate, Harley Wesley, Amanda Estes, Ellie Smith, Chloe Maxfield and Coach Cara Merrick. Not pictured Lacey Boone and Laycee Lynn.

Victory Gardens done for summer

Distribution at the community Victory Gardens is over for 2016. Friday was the final day for produce give-aways at the plots maintained by Crittenden County Detention Center.

It’s been a difficult year at the gardens, with Mother Nature drowning out several plots and extreme heat wreaking havoc on others. Still, the jail was able to offer summertime favorites to the public for several weeks and supply the lock-up with its own store of produce, reducing feeding costs.

Area Death

Clarence Martin Higgins, 90, of Fredonia died Wednesday at his home Wednesday. Gilbert Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

School Board meets next Thursday

Crittenden County Board of Education will meet for its monthly working session at 6 p.m. Tuesday in the Rocket Arena conference room. Next Thursday, the board meets at 6 p.m. for its monthly meeting in the elementary school library. An announcement in today's issue of The Crittenden Press incorrectly identified Tuesday's meeting as the regular business meeting.

Former SEAL talks about Crittenden's Barry Enoch

Former SEAL command master chief Hershel Davis was in Crittenden County recently teaching an advanced weapons training course at Jackson Knob Training Range near Crayne. 

Davis spent time with the late Barry Enoch, who grew up in Crittenden County and became a SEAL hero and author.

Hear part of our interview with Davis at the gun range. Beware that his language is a bit raw at times, but enjoy listening to this interesting character and national hero.

Collection, raffles benefit food bank

Crittenden County Food Bank has launched an effort to increase community backing, selling raffle tickets for several gift packages and collecting non-perishables at multiple locations.

According to Dwight Sherer, who is spearheading the effort, non-perishables will be collected at Conrad's Harvest Foods from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, or items can be dropped off anytime through Saturday at Marion City Hall, Crittenden County Courthouse or Partners Insurance.

In addition, raffle tickets are being sold for $100 gift cards to both local grocery stores, a $100 gas card from Five Star Food Mart, gift cards from Glenn's on Main in Marion and Copper Top Bar-B-Q in Fredonia and two rounds of golf for two separate foursomes including cart rentals at Deer Lakes Golf Course in Salem. Tickets – $1 per chance or six for $5 – can be purchased from Sherer, Denise Byarley at Partners Insurance, Mayree Sherer at Crittenden Health Systems or Mitzi Vaughn in Salem. Sherer said winners will be drawn Saturday evening and notified.

All money collected will go directly to the food bank, which expects this year to distribute about 55 tons of food to hungry families.

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

Inside this week's issue of The Crittenden Press, find out why
Rockets Coach Al Starnes is sharing this hug with a Special Olympian
at last week's football contest with Caldwell County.

A Crittenden County grand jury indicted Mark Bryant, the former Marion City Administrator, last week on all of the charges he was facing following his August arrest. Bryant is free on bond and now facing felony indictments for tampering with physical evidence, first-degree promoting contraband and trafficking in synthetic drugs.

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

• Library seeking grant for $2.5 million expansion
• Collection, raffles benefit food bank
• Judge: Insufficient evidence to revoke probation of felon charged with sexual assault, bond set
• Lacy named grand marshal of homecoming parade, homecoming attendants announced
• ‘Smoke’ could be start of budding relationship for CAF, Playhouse
• 4-H youth mow down competition
• Ex-SEAL remembers local man during high-level weapons class
• Rep. Bechler wants election security assured
• 6 on presidential ballot in Ky.
• Ky. on trend for all-time bean harvest
• FORGOTTEN PASSAGES: J.H. Stone remembers childhood in Tolu
• Bill would offer VFW property tax exemption
• Victory Gardens done for summer
• Circuit clerk plans to adjust Saturday hours starting January
• Kentucky ranks fifth in soft drink consumption
• Ky. grocery prices up slightly in Q2
• Gov. Bevin honored as Christian Statesman
• Yearly yard sale offers 200 miles of bargains
• SPORTS: Gilchrist 15th in state tournament
• SPORTS: Rockets hope Webster solves early ailments
• SPORTS: Fall sports roundup

Falling river level shouldn't affect rural water customers

Customers of Crittenden-Livingston Water District should not notice any changes to their service over the next few days as falling water levels in the Cumberland River "greatly affect" how the utility treats its potable water.

Work to repair damage to the locks and dam on the Ohio River at Brookport, Ill., is the cause of the falling water level on the Cumberland, which drains into the Ohio upstream from Brookport at Smithland. For the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to make necessary repairs, which could take up to four days depending on river conditions, the dam may have to be lowered. That would temporarily halt river traffic and cause water levels upstream, including on tributaries like the Cumberland River, to fall below water intakes for utilities such as Crittenden-Livingston Water District.

Officials at the water district office in Salem say the falling river level will indeed drop below their intake at Pinckneyville, but a large pump is being used to bypass the normal intake and deliver river water to the treatment plant in order to ensure undisrupted water service to customers in Crittenden and Livingston counties.

Chamber Farm to Table Moved Indoors

The Crittenden County Chamber of Commerce Farm to Table Dinner which will feature local fare from livestock yards and gardens is going to be moved inside due to the threat of rain on Saturday.

Chamber Executive Director Susan Alexander said tha instead of planning for the outdoor meal and having to adjust at the last minute because of weather, the Chamber has opted to make the call early.

The dinner will be held at fellowship hall at Marion First Presbyterian Church on West Bellville Street. The church was already scheduled as the preparation site for the food. Now it will host the 6:30 p.m., Saturday dinner as well.

A few tickets remain. Anyone interested in purchasing those for $50 apiece should contact the Chamber office at (270) 965-5015.

Saturday at Deer Creek Church

Circle of Sisters blurs congregational lines

A local ministry is bringing together women from the community's small churches and those without a church home for the benefit of its participants and others.

Circle of Sisters was born from Crooked Creek Baptist Church's outreach ministries that include GriefShare and DivorceCare. Through such programs, the small Southern Baptist congregation is encouraging people to get involved with God's work in order to help them further their spiritual journey. COS, as organizer Donna Girten refers to the women's ministry, is a non-denominational effort to bring like-minded people together for a common cause.

"Many of our smaller rural churches are challenged to find people and resources to provide a women's ministry," said Girten, whose husband Mark is pastor at the tiny church at Crooked Creek. "We may be small, but joining together, we can be greatly used and produce fruit. We need to lift each other up because when one church fails we all fail."

The group of women rotate their meeting between participating churches. Their next meeting is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sept. 24 at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Greenwood Heights.

"Our ladies join together for fellowship and to participate in Bible studies, devotionals and other activities to grow their faith, and they work together to do outreach service projects in our community," Girten explained.

One outreach ministry is offering "survival bags" to the homeless or displaced. The kits include items such as crackers, water, small toiletries, a shirt, a blanket and information about Christianity.

"Many months ago, The (Crittenden) Press had an article on the homeless," Girten said, explaining the outreach ministry's origins. "It was a need we'd never realized, and one of our ladies said, 'I'd like to do something.'"

Girten said the women met with Marion Police Chief Ray O'Neal and Crittenden County Sheriff Wayne Agent to figure out how best to distribute the bags to those in need. The law enforcement officers pointed to newly-freed prisoners at the county's jail as one group often in need. When their sentence is up, inmates from around the state being held at the 179-bed detention center are released just after midnight. The men and women, some of whom may live hours away, often have no one to pick them up.

"Those with just a bus ticket home are not able to leave until the  afternoon," Girten said.
For those individuals, the COS survival bags are the first act of kindness they receive on the outside, giving them a bit of a jump on re-entering society and most importantly, encouragement for their future.

Circle of Sisters is open to any woman who shares the tenets of Christianity.

"Our  basic belief shared is Jesus Christ is the Lord of all," Girten explained. "We want to reach women of all ages and stages searching and seeking their individual ministry and spiritual journey, especially if they're not connected to a church or family of God who can help them."

To learn more about joining COS, contact Girten at (270) 969-9553.

Area Deaths

Emmett Lee Powell, 62, of Carrsville died  Friday. Boyd Funeral Directors and Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.

Ginger Lee Glass, 67, of Salem died Saturday. Boyd Funeral Directors and Cremation Services is in charge of arrangements.

Festival Time in Frances

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Victory Gardens out of produce

The Victory Gardens near the park are depleted of fresh produce. Friday was the final day for distribution.

Jailer Robbie Kirk, who oversees the community gardens project, said produce has been coming in so slowly over the last few days there isn't enough to continue distributing it.

New Breakfast at Glenn's on Main

Want a job umpiring baseball?

The Second Region – which includes Crittenden and other nearby counties – is needing high school baseball umpires for spring 2017 season. Pay is good. For more information, call assigning secretary for baseball umpires Matt Bell 270-871-6956.

Local Job Opportunities

LOCAL COMPANY looking for full-time sales person to work in office. Right candidate should possess: Sales experience preferable, some Quickbooks knowledge, attention to detail. We offer: 6 paid holidays, retirement plan, paid vacation, partial paid health insurance. Send resume to: P.O. Box 191-M, Marion, Ky. 42064.

LOCAL COMPANY looking for part-time person to work in office. Right candidate should have knowledge of: Quickbooks, attention to detail, be able to converse with customers by phone. Send resume to P.O. Box 191-M, Marion, Ky. 42064.

Senate candidate Gray to visit Princeton

Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate Jim Gray will be in western Kentucky next week. Currently serving as Mayor of Lexington, Kentucky's second largest city, Gray will be at Pagliai's restaurant in Princeton from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday. Everyone is invited to meet the candidate.

Pleasant Hill road re-opens to traffic

Pleasant Hill Road in Crittenden County has re-opened to traffic. The county road was closed about week for replacement of a cross drain.

KHSAA ruling expected Monday

The Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) has yet to rule on the incident that occurred last week during the McLean County at Crittenden County football game, but McLean reportedly plans on self-imposed sanctions for tonight's game. Read More on Football Page.

Shoulders captures Sycamore Hills title

Dustin Cash, Jeremy Shoulders, Kyle Myers

Local golfer Jeremy Shoulders won the Sycamore Hills medal play golf tournament recently at The Heritage Golf Course at Marion Country Club. Shoulders shot even-par to capture the club’s signature tournament title. Here are scores from the two-day, 36-hole tournament:

CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT

1. J.Shoulders 70-74-144
2. D.Cash 74-70-144
3. K.Myers 74-75-149
4. C.Day 72-77-149
5. D.Phelps 79-78-157
6. L.Hughes 79-80-159
7. J.Dorroh 79-83-162

FIRST FLIGHT

1. D.Ogeltree 81-77-158
2. A.Pierce 81-78-159
3. N.King 84-86-170
4. M.Wright 88-85-173
5. J.Kirk 90-83-173
6. L.Rogers 89-89-178
7. J.Rousseau 94-89-183
8. C.Etheridge 93-93-186
9. S.Rogers 121-WD

SENIORS

1. R.Myers 75-76-151
2. M.Fraliex 74-78-152
3. L.Yates 77-86-163
4. T.Heaton 85-84-169
5. E.Voorhis 83-WD

Hospital seeking nurses

Area Deaths

Sandra Rhea Sills, 75, of Marion died Monday. Myers Funeral Home in Marion is in charge of arrangements.

Deadline tomorrow for HC entries

Crittenden County High School 2016 "Greek Week" Homecoming Parade will be Thursday, September 15 at 5 p.m., on Main Street. If you or your organization will have an entry, please contact Glenna Rich at the high school (270)965-2248 or email glenna.hoeszle@crittenden.kyschools.us. The deadline to enter is September 9 at 3 p.m. All drivers must be 18, and no golf carts or ATV's will be allowed.

Singles Event This Weekend

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Festival Sept. 24 in Frances

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

Read more in this week's newspaper
about the chaos at last week's home
opener for the Rockets that led to
multiple ejections.

Country stores are gone, post offices have closed and there’s no longer a filling station in any of the county’s rural communities. What some have left to protect and preserve their identities are community fire departments. In the spirit of community pride, Caldwell Springs Volunteer Fire Department has stepped up with a significant plan to bring the former Frances school back to life.

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

• KHSAA reviewing video from Friday’s football game
• Conrad’s under new ownership
• Hospital  CEO let go after 3 years
• EDITORIAL: Sharing emotions can be valuable part of any 9/11 lesson
• Chamber, CAF pair for unique Saturday
• Ky. fifth fattest state in America
• Final tax rates in county set: What’s your tax burden?
• License renewals no longer mailed
• KSP destroy 224 pot plants, charge 4 men
• Director: Public health departments to get more visibile
• Local planning for 2017 eclipse at standstill
• CCES recognizes kindness
• Whitfield resigns seat before set retirement
• 3 groups of critical state workers to see raise
• More families now qualify for child care assistance
• Caldwell County teen dies in ATV accident
• Beef Bash in Princeton offers producers valuable information
• Princeton Pasture to Plate session offering tips on retaining ownership to freezer beef
• Extension service can provide free soil testing
• Ky. unemployment insurance surcharge for employers ends
• SPORTS: KHSAA reviewing video from incident sparked by late hit
• OUTDOORS: September is quota hunt application month
• OUTDOORS: Ky. waterfowl blind drawings this month
• FORGOTTEN PASSAGES: Shady Grove community history rich
• Lola native Williams retires as Norton CEO
• @ YOUR LIBRARY: Library strives to increase friendships

Ky. 723 closed for crash

A two-vehicle injury accident on Ky. 723 north of Salem has the highway blocked at this time. The wreck happened at 2pm.

First responders are at the scene and tending to the injured.

Motorists should avoid this area and self-detour if necessary.

Area deaths

Kenneth Eugene Campbell, 74, of Marion died Friday. Gilbert Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Edward Darrel Smith, 76, of Fredonia died Friday. Myers Funeral Home in Marion is in charge of arrangements.

Youth Triathlon is Labor Day

The annual youth triathlon will be held at Marion Country Club pool on Monday on Labor Day.

Race-day check in and registration is from 7:30 a.m., to 8 a.m. Cost is $10. For information, call (270) 704-1871.

Distances vary by age.

The event is for participants age 5-18.

The event distances are as follows for swimming, biking and running, respectively:
Age   Swim, bike, run distances
5-6, 25 meters, half mile, quarter mile
7-10, 50 meters, 1 mile, half mile
11-14, 100 meters, 2 miles, 1 mile
15-18, 200 meters, 5 miles, 2 miles

Hunting seasons kick in today

If there appears to be more four-wheel drive pickups pulling ATVs and camo-clad sportsmen in your favorite coffee shop or restaurant it's because the fall hunting seasons kick into high gear today.

The dove season, which opened Thursday, will see its full frontal assault from gunners this weekend and the archery deer and turkey seasons opened today.

The Crittenden Press annual fall hunting section will be out in early October.

Job Openings

LOCAL COMPANY looking for full-time sales person to work in office. Right candidate should possess: Sales experience preferable, some Quickbooks knowledge, attention to detail. We offer: 6 paid holidays, retirement plan, paid vacation, partial paid health insurance. Send resume to: P.O. Box 191-M, Marion, Ky. 42064.

Flag football starts Saturday

Area Death

Bertha Lorine Arvin, 84, of Marion, formerly of Princeton, died Thursday. Morgan’s Funeral Home in Princeton is in charge of arrangements.

Tour the new Restricted Custody Center

Take a quick tour of the new

Crittenden County Restricted Custody Center

It is expected to open this week

Located at the former rescue squad building

See this week's printed edition of The Press for details

Area death

Clinton W. "Pete" Drennan, 100, of Murray, formerly of Marion, died Wednesday. Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion is in charge of arrangements.

Nursing positions available

Crash blocking I-24

Interstate 24 eastbound is blocked near the Grand Rivers exit due to semi crash.

Siren malfunction

The city emergency siren that went off this morning before 8 AM was a malfunction. It is not the first time such has happened with this system.

Public offices close Monday

All city, county, state and federal offices will be closed Monday in observance of Labor Day, as well as all courthouse offices on Saturday. Labor Day closings also include the public library, senior citizens center, Extension service, mineral museum and post offices.

Crittenden County Courthouse offices will be closed Saturday, Oct. 1 due to the annual Pumpkin Festival that takes place around the court square.

The sheriff’s and circuit clerk’s offices are normally the only county offices open on weekend.