Coke truck steals the show

Entered by Grant Kneisler and David Farmer, the Coca-Cola Truck Wins Nostalgia Award at Parade

The Coca-Cola Truck stole the show at Saturday's Christmas parade, winning the judges' Nostalgia Award, a category created to accommodate the standout entry. It was a great parade with strong participation, featuring 45 entries plus every fire truck in the county and Salem.

The Crittenden County Middle School boys' basketball bus also slipped into the parade just ahead of Santa after arriving home from winning the 5th District Championship at Lyon.

Parade Category Winners

Business

1st Place – Glenn's Pharmacies

2nd Place – KY American Seed

3rd Place – H & H Hardware

Church

1st Place – Deer Creek

2nd Place – Freedom

3rd Place – Marion General

Organization

1st Place – Friends Forever

2nd Place – E911

3rd Place – FFA

St. Nick Day Highlights Roots of Santa

And, how he slapped Arius at Council meeting 

Today, Dec. 6, marks St. Nicholas Day, a centuries-old Christian feast honoring the fourth-century bishop of Myra, whose generosity and faith helped shape traditions still celebrated today, including the modern figure of Santa Claus.

St. Nicholas, a Greek bishop in what is now Turkey, was known for quiet acts of charity. The best-known account tells of him secretly providing gold for the dowries of three impoverished young women so they could marry. His reputation for compassion spread widely, and over time his story blended with folklore across Europe, eventually inspiring Sinterklaas and, later, Santa Claus.

Though the historical record is thin, St. Nicholas is also famously – and perhaps legendarily – linked to the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. Tradition holds that he confronted the teacher Arius for denying the divinity of Christ. The tale of Nicholas slapping Arius emerged centuries later, reflecting Christian devotion to orthodoxy more than documented history.

St. Nicholas Day is observed Dec. 6 in Western Christian traditions, or the evening of Dec. 5, and Dec. 19 in Eastern churches that follow an older calendar. Families in many countries mark the day with simple, symbolic customs. Children place shoes or stockings out overnight and awaken to coins, oranges, small toys or candy, echoing Nicholas’s quiet gift-giving. Churches may hold special services, and some communities emphasize charity, donating toys or helping families in need.

Though American culture associates gift-giving with Christmas, Christian tradition recognizes St. Nicholas as the original model of generosity rooted in faith, a reminder, especially in this Advent season, of caring for the poor, encouraging children and practicing mercy in everyday life.

Crittenden Fiscal Court meets in special session

Crittenden County Fiscal Court will hold a special called meeting at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, in the Fiscal Courtroom at the County Office Complex.

The only item of business is to consider approval of claims for payment on the jail.

Hundreds may be left voiceless in the spring

Candidate filings for 2026 are already reshaping the political landscape in Crittenden County, and the early numbers may leave hundreds of local voters without a voice next spring. 

Why are some residents switching parties, and what could this mean for the balance of power going forward? 

See more about this trend in this week’s full edition of The Crittenden Press.

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No Parking for Saturday Parade | See Santa

There will be no parking along Main Street in downtown Marion from 3 p.m., until after Saturday’s Christmas Parade. 

Both sides of Main Street from Depot Street to the traffic light at Bellville Street will be coned off starting two hours before the 5 p.m., parade. Local law enforcement cautions parents to be especially attentive to children seeking candy by going into the street as motorized vehicles pass by. 

The Chamber of Commerce and Integrity Insurance are organizing the parade. 

Following the parade, Santa will see children at Crittenden County Fairgrounds inside the Lions Club's Agriculture Building. Children will get a hot-dog supper.

Marion gearing up for huge celebration

Big plans are taking shape for America’s 250th birthday in 2026 and Marion could be at the center of a major two-day celebration.

Community leaders are already sketching ideas, gathering partners and exploring ways to honor history, patriotism and local heritage.

What exactly is being planned?

What events might fill the weekend?

And how can the community get involved?

Find all the details in this week’s full edition of The Crittenden Press.

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No school in Crittenden today

School is closed in Crittenden County today as a result of slick roads from the first winter weather event of the season.  This is a Nontraditional Instruction (NTI) Day, with students in grades 3-12 completing classwork at home.  Teachers are available via email, Google Classroom and ParentSquare.

LYON COUNTY SHERIFF's Report

- On Tuesday, Nov. 25, 2025, at 8:30 a.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams responded to a single-vehicle collision complaint on Hopewell Road. His investigation revealed a 2016 Dodge Dart exited the roadway and was unoccupied when he first arrived. Chief Deputy Adams was able to locate and identify the driver as James Malone, 32, of Kuttawa. Malone was charged with operating on a suspended or revoked operator’s license and failure to produce an insurance card. There were no injuries in the accident.

- Beginning Wednesday, Nov. 26, 2025, at 4:34 a.m. and continuing through Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., the sheriff and deputies responded to 10 domestic-dispute-related incidents in the county. In most of the incidents, the parties were separated and no charges were filed. Several incidents resulted in the petitioning of protective orders through the court. In one incident, a woman was transported to an area hospital for a mental health evaluation. Sheriff Brent White reminds the public that Sanctuary Inc., (800) 766-0000, offers domestic violence services and emergency shelter for victims, and Pennyroyal Center, (877) 473-7766, offers mental health and crisis/emergency stabilization services. The Kentucky 988 suicide and crisis lifeline is also staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week for those needing to connect with suicide prevention assistance, mental health and substance use counselors. These providers tend to see an uptick in demand for services around the holidays.

- On Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025, just after 5:30 p.m., Deputy Josh Travis responded to I-69 with Kentucky State Police and other first responders for a rollover collision. Upon arrival, it was determined there were two non-injury collisions near the same mile marker. KSP investigated the non-injury rollover collision with two occupants, and Deputy Travis investigated a single-vehicle collision. His investigation revealed a

Wintry Mix in Forecast Tonight

A wintry mix will move into the region this evening and continue overnight, bringing light snow, sleet and pockets of ice to much of western Kentucky and surrounding areas.

A winter weather advisory remains in effect for far southeast Missouri, far southern Illinois and most of western Kentucky, where forecasters expect up to an inch of snow or sleet and some light icing. Southwest Indiana has been added to the advisory, with up to 2 inches of snow possible there as the system organizes later tonight.

Areas farther north and west may see around an inch of snow or sleet. In Trigg, Christian and Todd counties, the event is expected to be mostly rain, with only a limited wintry mix after midnight.

While overall totals are low, forecasters warn that even light ice or snow could quickly create hazardous conditions on roads, bridges and sidewalks. Temperatures will remain below normal through the week.

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Almanac releases White Christmas forecast

In its annual Christmas Forecast, the Almanac reports that the Northeast, Lower Lakes and Alaska are expected to have snow on Dec. 25, while areas such as the Atlantic Corridor, Southeast, Deep South, Texas–Oklahoma region, Pacific Northwest and Southwest are not. Several regions fall into a “chance” category, including the Appalachians, Upper Midwest, High Plains and parts of the Intermountain West.

The Almanac’s long-range outlook anticipates a “milder, gentler winter” overall across much of the country.

The Almanac also shared historical White Christmas probabilities based on NOAA’s 30-year climate data. Northern states such as Maine, Minnesota, North Dakota, Michigan and Wisconsin typically see snow three out of four years or more. Odds drop sharply across the Mid-Atlantic, South, Plains and much of the West, with Washington, D.C., historically averaging about a 6 percent chance.

Wintry weather staying to the north

Wintry weather is expected to stay north of Crittenden County and most of western Kentucky today, according to the National Weather Service. Precipitation will move across the region early this morning and taper off tonight.

Forecasters say the system will start as snow mainly in southeast Missouri and southern Illinois, where light accumulations are possible. Areas along the I-64 corridor in Illinois have the best chance of receiving an inch or more.

Across western Kentucky, including Crittenden County, the precipitation is expected to quickly transition to rain by late morning and remain rain the rest of the day. Brief travel issues are possible this morning in southern Illinois due to slushy road conditions, but rising temperatures and steady rain should improve travel by afternoon.

Consider Fohs Hall for your special event

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Planning a bridal shower, class reunion or special 

event? Consider holding that event at Fohs Hall.

Fohs Hall, a beautiful 100-year-old cultural arts 

center, is the area's premier special events venue. 

For rental information, contact Elliot West.

Sunday could get a little slippery

A wintry system is expected to move into the region Saturday morning, bringing a round of snow before changing over to rain by late morning. Forecasters say the precipitation will taper off by Sunday morning.

Snow is expected mainly across southeast Missouri and southern Illinois, where light accumulations are possible. The greatest chance for an inch or more is along the I-64 corridor in southern Illinois. 

Extreme northern Crittenden County and parts of Union, Webster, Hopkins and Caldwell counties could see some preciptation. 

Slippery or slushy road conditions could cause brief travel issues early Saturday, but rising temperatures and afternoon rain should improve driving conditions later in the day.

Three injured in crash near Salem

Updated Friday, Nov. 28

SALEM, Ky. – Three people were flown from the scene of a head-on crash on U.S. 60 in Livingston County Thursday afternoon.

The collision, involving a passenger car and an SUV, occurred just before 3:30 p.m., on Thanksgiving Day between Burna and Salem just west of Old Salem Road. Two of the victims had to be extricated from the wreckage by Salem Fire and Rescue.

U.S. 60 was shut down for about three hours while emergency crews worked the scene. 

Livingston County Sheriff’s Office said a 2018 Ford Edge driven by Beverly Wallace, 72, of Paducah crossed the center line and struck a 2015 Hyundai Sonata driven by Quinton Gibson, 24, also of Paducah. His passenger was identified as 26-year-old Emma Colwell.

Sheriff’s deputies were assisted by Livingston County EMS, Livingston County Emergency Management, the Kentucky Department of Transportation, Bailey’s Wrecker Service, and three AirEvac helicopters. 

Liquor Sales | Breakdown of Marion's thirst

Every penny of Marion’s alcohol tax goes directly to policing and enforcement of ABC laws, and our latest analysis shows how those dollars are generated month to month. 

August is typically the city’s strongest month for alcohol sales, while July is surprisingly the weakest. After a soft midsummer in 2025, receipts have surged this fall, putting Marion slightly ahead of last year’s pace.

Read the full breakdown in this week’s Crittenden Press.

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Wakesports regs on KDFWR agenda

MORE COUNTIES MAY BE CWD ZONED

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Proposed changes to boating, fishing and wildlife regulations will headline the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Commission’s quarterly meeting Friday, Dec. 5, in Frankfort. The meeting begins at 7:30 a.m. CST in the Schaff Room at the Salato Wildlife Education Center and is open to the public. It will be streamed live on the department’s YouTube channel.

The commission is expected to consider amendments to waterway safety rules that would designate specific waterbodies or zones where wakesports may be allowed. Updates to fishing regulations are also on the agenda, including modified size and daily limits for Black Bass, Shovelnose Sturgeon and Skipjack Herring, along with additions to the Fishing in Neighborhoods (FINs) program.

Members will also weigh whether to add Pulaski, Wayne, Whitley, McCrery, Lincoln, Laurel, Rockcastle, Russell and Casey counties to the state’s Chronic Wasting Disease surveillance zone, a move that would bring additional restrictions to those areas.

Other expected action includes clarifying that paid hunting guides are prohibited on Wildlife Management Areas, affirming that fishing tournaments launching from WMA boat ramps are not commercial activity under current regulations, and updating definitions within WMA rules. The panel will also review proposed changes to deer-hunting rules on county- and locally owned properties; updates to taxidermy and fur-buyer licensing forms; and revisions to special agency fundraising permit regulations.

The commission will further consider a request to establish a limited number of standing committees. Discussion and new-business items are scheduled, but action on those matters is expected at future meetings.

Marion Baptist Invites you to Thanksgiving Lunch

On the eve of Thanksgiving, volunteers at Marion Baptist Church are already deep in preparations for Thursday’s annual community meal, which will be served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the church’s Family Life Center.

Pastor Aaron Brown said the kitchen will be busy, busy tomorrow morning as members warm dishes, organize sides and get ready for what has become one of the church’s most signficant outreach events of the year.

“The crew works hard,” Brown said. “This will be a full Thanksgiving meal for our community.”

Brown emphasized that the lunch is open to everyone.

“We’re not worried about what you think or believe,” he said. “We just want you to know that if you have a hungry belly and you want some lunch, we’ve got a great Thanksgiving meal prepped and ready to serve you and your family – or maybe someone you know.”

Most of the meal is prepared by church members, with the exception of the turkeys, which come from Pleasant Valley Store near Fredonia because of the large quantity required. Desserts are a mix of dishes made in the church kitchen and others donated by volunteers.

“Everything else is cooked either in-house or brought in from volunteers,” Brown said. 

Fellowship is as central to the meal as the food itself. Many volunteers enjoy working side-by-side, and the church expects to serve guests who may otherwise be spending the holiday alone.

“There are a lot of people that might be lonely this time of year,” he said. “You can just come and enjoy a full Thanksgiving meal and enjoy the fellowship, maybe even sit with people you don’t know and get to know other people in the community.”

Along with dine-in service, Marion Baptist plans to deliver well over 100 meals Thursday to shut-ins, nursing home residents and others unable to leave home.

Brown said the church office may be difficult to reach Thursday morning as volunteers work in the Family Life Center preparing and serving the meal, but walk-ins will be welcome and meals can be picked up to take to others who need them.

We're Out a Day Early for Turkey Week!

🗞️ This Week in The Press

We're on newsstands, in the mail, online and in your inbox a day early this week to make way for Turkey Day!

HEADLINES THIS WEEK

USDA Approves $78M Hospital Expansion

Livingston Hospital secures major financing for multi-million-dollar project. 

County Will Stop Paying Jail Bills

Fiscal Court warns of a looming deficit as detention center faces deepening financial strain. Jailer disputes figures. 

Bids Opened for New 5-Year EMS Contract

Two proposals now under review as county evaluates ambulance service options. 

2023 Fentanyl Death Leads to Felony Charges

Two Marion men indicted for second-degree manslaughter following lengthy investigation. 

Small Business Saturday Kickoff

Chamber giveaway starts 8 a.m. Saturday — 100 gift bags, mystery prizes, shop-local deals. 

Election Filings Continue to Grow

Judge, sheriff, magistrate seats and more drawing early candidates heading into 2026. 

New Deputies Join Sheriff’s Office

Two full-time hires heading to academy after October start. 

Students Earn KMEA Honor Choir Recognition

Local elementary and middle school students shine at MSU. 

KY Assessment Scores Released

CCHS and CCMS earn green ratings; elementary school shows notable gains. 

Forgotten Passages: Mina Wheeler’s 1894 Journey

County’s first female superintendent recounts her extraordinary solo trip to rural schools. 

Internet outage hobbles school phones

Crittenden County School District is among several districts in the region experiencing an internet outage this morning, which is also affecting phone lines. Officials said the district will remain reachable through ParentSquare and by email until service is restored.

Families needing assistance may contact school administrators directly at the following addresses: 

CCES Julie.champion@crittenden.kyschools.us
CCMS Heidi.hicks@crittenden.kyschools.us
CCHS Staci.blackburn@crittenden.kyschools.us
Board Office Bridgette.porter@crittenden.kyschools.us 

District leaders said staff will be monitoring messages throughout the day.

State officials survey local water issues

Kentucky Energy and Environmental Cabinet officials spent Friday in Crittenden and Livingston counties for a daylong review of local water infrastructure improvements and upcoming needs.

Sara Marshall, director of the Division of Water, and members of her staff met with local leaders in Marion before touring several key sites. The group reviewed dam rehabilitation work at Lake George, visited Old City Lake and Marion’s water plant, and later traveled to the Crittenden-Livingston Water District’s treatment facility on the Cumberland River south of Salem.

Participating in the day’s discussions and tours were Crittenden County Judge-Executive Perry Newcom, Livingston County Judge-Executive Michael Williams, Marion Mayor D’Anna Browning, Marion Water Plant Superintendent Jeff Black, members of the CLWD board, CLWD Superintendent Abbie Adamson, CLWD Board Chairman T.L Maddux, consultant Tim Thomas, project engineers and others.

The visits come as the City of Marion and CLWD have secured roughly $32 million in grants and low-interest loans for ongoing and planned water projects. Only about $3.5 million of that total will require repayment.

Additional conversations last week centered on future expansion needs and options for removing PFAS – often referred to as forever chemicals – from local drinking water systems.

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FCCLA Christmas Toy Drive

 

Lyon County Sheriff's Report

- On Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, at 2:30 p.m., Sheriff Brent White arrested William M. McQuigg Jr., 43, of Kuttawa at a residence on KY 93 North. He was served with a Lyon District Court bench warrant for failure to appear in a civil court case. McQuigg was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

- On Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, just before 4 p.m., Sheriff Brent White and Deputy Bobby Beeler responded to a complaint of a suspicious person at Huck’s Travel Center in Kuttawa. Callers stated there was a man on a motorcycle who was believed to be passed out in the parking lot. Sheriff White made initial contact with the subject and identified him as David R. Gansert, 44, of Brownsburg, Ind. The investigation revealed the registration plate affixed to Gansert’s motorcycle was not assigned to it and he could not provide proof of insurance. Additionally, a serial number on one of the motorcycle’s major components had been reported stolen off a motorcycle in Indianapolis, Ind. Gansert was arrested by Deputy Beeler and charged with the following offenses: (1) receiving stolen property ($1,000 < $10,000), (2) failure of owner to maintain required insurance, second or greater offense, (3) improper registration plate, and (4) expired out-of-state registration plate or receipt. Gansert was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

- On Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, around 7:18 p.m., Deputy Bobby Beeler investigated a single-vehicle collision on Port Authority Road involving an Eddyville Police Department cruiser. His investigation revealed Officer Joshua Oden, 35, of Cadiz was eastbound on Port Authority Road when a deer entered his path and he was unable to avoid a collision. No injuries were reported and the vehicle remained operational.

- On Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, around 10:23 a.m., Deputy Lori Francis served a criminal summons from Christian District Court on Tana S. Stewart, 35, of Gracey, charging her with one count of unlawful transaction with a minor, third degree. She faces a December court date in Hopkinsville.

- On Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, around 3:30 p.m., Deputy Josh Travis and Chief Deputy Sam Adams responded to a disturbance complaint at a residence on KY 93 North near Kuttawa. The investigation

Marion men face manslaughter charges

Two Marion men have been arrested and charged with second-degree manslaughter in connection with an alleged fentanyl-related death more than two years ago.

Dustin McKinney, 35, and Andrew Bryan, 29, were taken into custody Friday night about 8 p.m. by Crittenden County Sheriff Evan Head. They separately face Class C felony charges filed in sealed indictments, which were issued by the Crittenden County Grand Jury on Nov. 13.

While those case files have not been formally unsealed, it appears the two are charged in connection with the death of a 22-year-old man found deceased at McKinney’s home in Greenwood Heights in June 2023.

Both men are being held in the Crittenden County Detention Center. Marion Police Department is the lead investigative agency on the two cases. 

House fire extinguished near Tolu

Firefighters from Tolu and surrounding agencies were called to a house fire just east of Tolu about 30 minutes before dark Friday. Crews were able to contain the blaze quickly. No further details were immediately available.

Talk to Integrity Insurance for Medicare review

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It's Open Enrollment time for Medicare continues through Dec. 7.

See the professionals at Integrity Insurance of Marion for your annual benefits review.

Owner Denise Byarley and staff will discuss Medicare supplements and associated plans to give you piece of mind.

Call today (270) 965-2239.

Another candidate files for spring primary

Crittenden County Jailer Athena Hayes has filed to seek re-election. 

Filing deadline if Jan. 9 to seek election in the spring primary election. Filing opened on Nov. 5.

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Rocket Arena hosting full hoops slate

Rocket Arena will host a multi-team high school basketball scrimmage Saturday with the boys entertaining teams from a Paducah homeschool league (PATCH), Caldwell County, Hickman County and Fulton City. 

The girls’ preseason action will include teams from Caldwell County, Allen County-Scottsville (ACS) and Paducah Tilghman. Boys play will be two 16-minute halves and girls’ action will be varsity and JV in each scheduled hour of competition and include 15-minute varsity halves. 

Meet the Rockets events will begin at 6pm with its popular dessert auction, all of open to the public.

Games during all sessions will be played at Rocket Arena and the middle school gym, which is designated by an asterisk below.

GIRLS SCHEDULE
Crittenden vs Caldwell, 10am
ACS vs Tilghman, 10am*
Crittenden vs Tilghman, 11am
Caldwell vs ACS, 11am*
Crittenden vs ACS, noon
Caldwell vs Tilghman, noon*
BOYS SCHEDULE
Rockets vs PATCH, 1pm
Fulton vs Caldwell, 1pm*
Caldwell vs Hickman, 1:45pm
Rockets vs Fulton, 1:45pm*
Hickman vs PATCH, 2:30pm
Rockets vs Caldwell, 2:30pm*
Rockets vs Hickman, 3:15pm
PATCH vs Fulton, 3:15pm*

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Lyon County Sheriff's Report

- On Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025, at 1:35 p.m., Sheriff Brent White responded to a single-vehicle collision on KY 93 South near Titus Road. His investigation revealed a 2018 Chevrolet Equinox traveling south and driven by Tara S. Russell, 48, of Hopkinsville, collided with a deer in the roadway, rendering the vehicle inoperable. Neither Russell nor her two passengers were injured. Deputy Scott Wathen and the Eddyville Police Department assisted at the scene.

- On Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025, at 8:30 a.m., Sheriff Brent White served a Crittenden District Court criminal summons on Dee Anna Kinnis, 57, of Marion. She faces a November court date in Marion for a local ordinance violation.

- On Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, around 11:40 a.m., the sheriff’s office was dispatched to a burglary in progress at a closed Kuttawa business on Lakeshore Drive. Upon arrival, deputies did not locate anyone as initially reported. Deputies followed up with the victim to obtain more information and later identified a suspect based on video surveillance. Chief Deputy Sam Adams later located the suspect, who admitted to stealing items from the property. Dwight “Dee” S. Smith, 57, of Princeton was charged with criminal trespassing and theft by unlawful taking.

- On Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, around 1:52 p.m., deputies were dispatched to a disturbance on Lake Barkley Drive in Kuttawa. The investigation revealed two female adults had engaged in a physical altercation before one of the women, who was reportedly intoxicated, fled prior to police arriving. Deputies located an injured woman who refused medical attention from Lyon County EMS. An investigation has been initiated, and deputies are searching for Katharine R. Stacy, 38, of Hopkinsville, who allegedly assaulted the victim and fled the scene. Deputy Josh Travis is continuing the investigation.

- On Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, around 4:45 p.m., deputies went to a home on KY 810 South and arrested Mae N. Frazier, 51, of Kuttawa. She was charged on a Fayette District Court bench warrant with failure to appear in a receiving stolen property case. Frazier posted bond and was later released.

- On Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, around 5:42 p.m., deputies were dispatched to Days Inn Drive in Kuttawa for a disturbance complaint. Their investigation revealed a disturbance began while two family members were traveling on I-24, leading to a female passenger exiting a vehicle and walking to a Kuttawa business for assistance. Deputies determined she was in crisis due to significant mental health issues. She was transported to an area hospital and admitted for treatment. No criminal charges are expected.

Harris Real Estate accepting consignments

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Harris Real Estate & Auction is accepting farm equipment consignments for a sale Dec. 13 in Mayfield.

To consign, contact Michael Harris at (270) 247-3253.

Harris Real Estate & Auction will gather photos and descriptions, and equipment can be taken to Mayfield Dec. 10-12. 

If you're considering selling tractors, trucks or field equipment, call Harris Real Estate today.

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Jankowski will coach first at Texas

Texas Raners Photo

ARLINGTON, Texas – Former Texas Rangers outfielder and former Marion Bobcats summer-league player Travis Jankowski has been hired as the Rangers’ first-base coach for the 2026 season.

Jankowski, 34, joins new manager Skip Schumaker’s staff as one of four newcomers announced Wednesday. A veteran of 10 major-league seasons, Jankowski played for the Rangers in 2023 and 2024 and was part of the club’s World Series championship run two years ago. Known for his speed and defense, he finished his playing career with a .236 batting average, 104 stolen bases and more than 350 hits.

Truck crashes into NAPA store in Marion

An accident near Main and Gum streets in Marion around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday led to a secondary crash that damaged the front of the NAPA Auto Parts store. 

First responders said no one was seriously injured, but the building sustained significant damage.

Responders reported that the driver of a red pickup had pulled into the NAPA parking lot to avoid the initial wreck and apparently hit the accelerator instead of the brake, sending the truck into the storefront.

Two incumbents file for re-election

Two more incumbents filed candidacy documents today with the Crittenden County Clerk, signaling their intent to seek re-election. Those were Robert Kirby for District 3 magistrate and Paul Beard for District 3 constable.

Caldwell sheriff seeks help finding wanted man

PRINCETON, Ky. – Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating Zachary Vanskike, 36, who is wanted in connection with an investigation into the theft of electricity from Pennyrile Electric. Chief Deputy Stacey Blackburn said Vanskike is charged with theft of services over $1,000, a felony, and faces additional charges in Caldwell County.

Anyone with information about Vanskike’s whereabouts is urged to contact the sheriff’s office at (270) 365-2088 or Chief Deputy Blackburn at (270) 963-0911. All tips will remain confidential.

Where have all the deer gone?

By Philip Sharp

Certified Wildlife Biologist
Superior Whitetail Habitats LLC

This is a simple but very complex question going around. The Kentucky modern firearm deer season brings outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen from far and wide to our great state known for hospitality and phenomenal deer-hunting opportunities. So, back to the simple question: Where have all the deer gone?

Here is my honest and professional opinion on that question – it’s complicated – but I will try to shed some light on the subject.

First and foremost, EHD (Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease), commonly known to most as blue tongue, took a devastating toll on deer populations in certain counties. Within any individual county, we saw huge variances in occurrence and mortality from the disease, which is spread by a midge fly. If your area saw significant mortality rates from EHD, it likely took out a disproportionate number of 2½- and 3½-year-old bucks compared to does, leaving your area with a gap within the buck age class. This will alter deer rut and movement behavior. With fewer mature bucks in the age class and higher-than-normal doe-to-buck ratios, territorial displays are minimized, leaving fewer scrapes, rubs and what we all hunt for — the chase.

Many are asking about CWD, or Chronic Wasting Disease. Has this affected Kentucky’s population? My

Frazer seeks re-election as county attorney

 

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2 New Candidate Filings on Monday

Two more candidates came out on Monday. Crittenden County candidate filings to date, include Perry Newcom, judge-executive; Nathan Ratley, judge-executive; Bart Frazer, county attorney; Chad Nelson, county attorney; Daryl Tabor, county clerk; Evan Head, sheriff; Ray Agent, sheriff; Todd Perryman, PVA; Robbie Kirk, jailer; Brad Gilbert, coroner; Danny Fowler, 1st District magistrate; and Rob Horack, 1st District magistrate; Matt Grimes, 2nd District magistrate; Brennan Cruce, 5th District magistrate. All are Republican candidates. 

Subsequent to the announcement that longtime Livingston County Sheriff Bobby Davidson would not seek another term in office, local officers Shannon Edging, Glenn A. Gordon and Donald Crawford have each filed to seek the sheriff’s post in Livingston County.

Other Livingston County candidates who have filed as of early this week are Mark Long, 2nd District magistrate; Jeff Armstrong, coroner; Benji Guill, jailer; and Sonya Williams, county clerk.

 

Sheriff's Report | Lyon County

Sheriff Brent White and deputies made several arrests and handled multiple cases last week, including the service of several out-of-county warrants and a single-vehicle crash involving a deer.

- On Nov. 5, at 11:30 a.m., Sheriff White served a Lee Circuit Court indictment warrant on Cruz M. Bolton, 32, of Madisonville, charging him with second-degree assault and being a persistent felony offender I. Bolton awaits extradition to Lee County.

- At noon the same day, Sheriff White served a Lee Circuit Court indictment warrant on Demarcus L. Bowie, 24, of Lexington, charging him with second-degree assault and being a persistent felony offender I. Bowie also awaits extradition to Lee County.

- At 12:25 p.m., Sheriff White served a Lee Circuit Court indictment warrant on Timothy J. Hall, 32, of Staffordsville, charging him with third-degree assault and being a persistent felony offender II. Hall awaits extradition to Lee County.

- On Nov. 6, at 9:25 a.m., School Resource Officer Deputy Cory Jessup charged a 16-year-old female

See Integrity Insurance for Medicare review

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It's Open Enrollment time for Medicare.

See the professionals at Integrity Insurance of Marion for your annual benefits review.

Owner Denise Byarley and staff will discuss Medicare supplements and associated plans to give you piece of mind.

Call today (270) 965-2239.

Boone wins big breakfast prize

Shady Grove Volunteer Fire Department held its annual Deer Hunters Breakfast and Gun Raffle on Saturday, serving a record 345 breakfast plates. 

It's the department's largest fundraising event of the year and it wants to thank the volunteers who prepared and orchestrated the event, and all of those who came to eat breakfast. 

Hunter Boone won the drawing for a bolt action .30-06 Weatherby rifle, about a $900 value.

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Mining Engineer Russ Adams

Joins the Show to talk spar

Pictured is a geologist with the

KY Geological Survey who was

in Marion recently. She is

examining spar in a core sample. 

Read more in the No. 6 issue of The Press.

Foggy start for opening morning whitetail gunners

MARION, Ky. – The start of modern gun deer season has brought an influx of hunters and visitors to Crittenden County, one of western Kentucky’s most popular outdoor destinations. Trucks towing campers and UTVs have filled local roads and backwoods as the 16-day rifle season opens today and runs through Nov. 23.

Conditions were a bitty foggy for early starters, but a cold front rolling in should improve hunting conditions.

Hunters for the Hungry will be accepting donated deer in Crittenden County at Family Butcher Shop on Rooster Lane off KY 365 near Mattoon.

The county’s fall deer season is among its largest tourism draws, with a significant economic impact from lodging, fuel, food and supply purchases. Hunters have been afield since September with archery and crossbow seasons, but the modern gun hunt marks the peak of activity for Kentucky sportsmen.

Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources reports hunters statewide harvested nearly 150,000 deer last year, with modern gun season accounting for the majority. The agency says Kentucky’s thriving white-tailed deer population provides abundant opportunities and a sustainable source of lean, local meat.

To aid hunters, the department offers resources online at fw.ky.gov, including the 2025-26 Fall Hunting and Trapping Guide, public land maps, and licensing information. The new Kentucky Deer & Elk App is also available for free on Apple and Google Play, allowing users to view property boundaries, find processors and taxidermists, and store digital licenses.

Hunting licenses and deer permits can be purchased online or from authorized agents statewide. Hunters born in 1975 or later must have hunter education certification or obtain a free one-year exemption permit to hunt under supervision.

For more information on regulations, licensing or hunter education, visit the “Deer Hunting” section at fw.ky.gov.

Friday's Election Fillings in Crittenden County

On Friday, the third day individuals may file as candidates for the spring primary election, two more have stepped forward. 

Former magistrate Danny Fowler has filed to seek the District 1 Magisterial seat and Nathan Ratley has filed to run for judge-executive. Both are Republican candidates. 

The join others who filed earlier in the week. 

Two more file candidacy papers

Two more individuals filed for candidacy in the spring election. They are incumbent Brad Gilbert for coroner and newcomer Rob Horack for District 1 magistrate. Both are Republicans.

Wednesday was the first day to officially file. A handful of others filed yesterday.

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On today's program we hear from

local entertainer Cutter Singleton