Monday, August 25, 2025

City Council will propse tax rates Wednesday

Marion City Council will hold a special called meeting at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, at city hall.

On the agenda is first reading of Ordinance 25-15, which sets the city’s 2025 tax levy.


Livingston leaders will discuss solar setbacks

SMITHLAND, Ky. — Solar setbacks will be on the agenda when Livingston County Fiscal Court meets at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26 at the courthouse in Smithland.

Magistrates are expected to give second reading to a solar farm ordinance and discuss earthquake insurance under old business.

The solar ordinance has gained a good bit of attention. Setbacks were originally proposed well beyond the normal scope for such projects. The court will make the final determination of those setbacks during Tuesday’s meeting. A company is exploring a solar farm between Carrsville and Hampton in the northern part of Livingston County.

New business includes the treasurer’s report, annual settlement and $30,000 in EMS claims. The court will also hear committee and department reports on EMS, county transfer stations, the sheriff’s department and the road department, which is considering hiring two Livingston County High School co-op students.

Parks and recreation matters are also on the agenda, including repairs at Roy Ringstaff Ball Field and alterations to the Lady Cardinals’ dugout. Other items for consideration include Octoberfest T-shirt sponsorships, a health board appointment, a Hazmat-1 contract, 2025 tax rates, a Kentucky Transportation Cabinet 80/20 resolution and pressure washing the county office and library building.

A closed session is scheduled under KRS 61.810(1)(f) to discuss personnel matters.


Lyon County Sheriff's Activity Report

On Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, around 8:17 p.m., Deputy Bobby Beeler responded to a burglary complaint on Oriole Drive in Old Eddyville. His continuing investigation through Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, has led to charges being pursued against two juveniles who broke into an RV camper and did just under \$1,000 in damages.

On Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, around 6:30 p.m., Deputy Shannon Oliver took a theft report from a Lamasco citizen who stated he ran out of gas on his black Suzuki Boulevard motorcycle on U.S. 62 near Major’s Loop (eastbound side) on Aug. 10, 2025, in Kuttawa. The victim walked toward the Huck’s Travel Center to obtain fuel. Upon his return, his motorcycle had reportedly been stolen. This was the only mode of transportation the victim currently had. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office at 270-388-2311. Note: The picture below is for reference purposes as it is the same make and model of the stolen motorcycle; however, it is not a picture of the victim’s exact one.

On Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025, around 7:30 a.m., Sheriff Brent White was on patrol on Ky. 93 South when he observed a vehicle at a residence that was the subject of an extra patrol request. Sheriff White investigated and detained three subjects, one of whom was a previous acquaintance of the property owner, who was not present at the home, and who had been told not to be on the property. Chief Deputy Sam Adams arrived shortly thereafter and all three subjects were charged with criminal trespass. They were identified as follows

  • Maranda M. Driver, 34, of Princeton
  • Christian E. Romero, 27, of Princeton
  • Brett Sherill, 52, of Fredonia

Beginning on Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025, and continuing through Aug. 20, 2025, deputies arrested the following offenders:

  • Melissa Mills, 60, of Fredonia, was served with a Knox Circuit Court bench warrant for nonpayment of costs, fees or fines. Mills awaits extradition to Knox County.
  • Ashley N. Rollins, 32, of Corryton, Tenn., was served with a Lyon Circuit Court warrant charging her with failure to appear in a case from 2021 involving a vehicle pursuit. She was also served with a warrant charging her with a probation violation stemming from the same case. Rollins was extradited from Knox County, Tenn., back to Kentucky on this date. She was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

On Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025, around 8:15 a.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams responded to a rollover collision on Ky. 93 South near Lamasco. His investigation revealed a 2001 Nissan Altima driven by Tana S. Stewart, 34, of Cadiz lost control of her vehicle after she stated a deer ran into her path of travel and she attempted to avoid it. Stewart’s vehicle went off the left side of the roadway and overturned. She refused medical treatment at the scene. Chief Deputy Adams charged Stewart with no insurance.

On Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, after 8 a.m., the Sheriff’s Office received a call about a single-vehicle collision on Ky. 810 North near U.S. 62. Chief Deputy Sam Adams, Sheriff Brent White and Lyon County EMS responded to the scene. The investigation revealed John M. Huddleston, 29, of Kuttawa was southbound on Ky. 810 North when he failed to negotiate a curve and left the roadway before coming to rest in a creek. After refusing medical transport, Huddleston was arrested by Chief Deputy Adams and charged with DUI (first offense), no motorcycle operator’s license and no insurance. Huddleston was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

On Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, around 4:30 p.m., Deputy Josh Travis and other members of the Sheriff’s Office responded to a disturbance complaint on Ky. 810 South involving several adults with children present. Upon arrival, all parties were separated, and the incident was mediated. One of the adults, identified as Mae N. Frazier, 51, of Lexington, was arrested and charged with a Hardin District Court bench warrant for failure to appear and a Fayette District Court complaint warrant charging her with

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Friday, August 22, 2025

Bus driver positions available

Click Image to Enlarge
Looking for a short work-day and a great benefits package?  Consider becoming a bus driver in the Crittenden County transportation department.

Applications are being accepted online for school bus drivers.  Drivers work no nights, weekends, holidays or summers and receive opportunities for extra pay and a benefits package.

Call today for more information or visit Crittenden.kyschools.us to apply.




Thursday, August 21, 2025

Magistrates ask for jailer's resignation

MARION, Ky. — Crittenden County Fiscal Court on Thursday, Aug. 21, formally asked for the resignation of Jailer Athena Hayes, citing troubling financial reports two months into the new fiscal year. One magistrate noted the county has supplemented jail operations by about $600,000 over the past two years. The request passed unanimously.

Hayes, who delivered her monthly jailer's report and fielded questions about cash flow earlier in the meeting, had left before the vote. 

Reached afterward, Hayes said she had been informed of the action and has “respectfully denied the request” to resign, adding that a more detailed response will be released later.

Stayed tuned to The Crittenden Press for more details and further developments.

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Tuesday, August 19, 2025

KENTUCKY FARMERS | Raising Hope Publication

The Farmer’s Pride: Celebrating Kentucky’s Farmers


The latest edition of The Farmer’s Pride is now available — both inside the Aug. 21, 2025 issue of The Crittenden Press and online at The Farmer’s Pride. This special publication from the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Raising Hope program shines a light on the challenges, triumphs, and resilience of Kentucky farmers.

Among the many stories featured:

  • Weathering the Wettest Year on Record – Kentucky farmers share how they’ve adapted to a historically rainy start to 2025, which delayed planting and added stress across the state.

  • The Launch of the MASH Barn – The Mobile Agriculture Safety and Health Barn, a vision of Dr. Cheryl Witt, is now traveling the state to bring health screenings, training, and resources directly to farmers in a setting that feels like home.

  • “I Can Hear the Birds Again” – A powerful personal story from farm safety leader Dale Dobson about discovering life after hearing loss, thanks to a new partnership with KY HEARS and the Heuser Hearing Institute.

  • Handshakes That Change the World – How decades of outreach, training, and simple connections have saved lives and built the foundation for today’s farm safety programs.

  • Read Now
    Grain Bin Rescues – Union County firefighters share firsthand accounts of how specialized training and equipment provided through Raising Hope have made the difference between life and death in dangerous grain entrapments.

  • Farmers’ Appreciation Day – Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell invites all Kentucky farm families to Murray State University on Sept. 17, 2025 for a celebration filled with free food, health screenings, giveaways, and awards.


This issue is packed with resources, encouragement, and inspiration for the farm families who keep Kentucky fed, clothed, and strong.

📖 Read the full publication here: www.the-press.com/TheFarmersPride.pdf
📰 Or pick up a print copy inside the Aug. 21, 2025 edition of The Crittenden Press.



Monday, August 18, 2025

Lyon County Sheriff's Report

Following is the weekly activity report from Lyon County Sheriff's Brent White's office:

 - On Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, around 11:52 p.m., Deputy Shannon Oliver served an arrest warrant for failure to appear from Lyon Circuit Court on Luis Baquero, 29, of Davenport, Fla., after he was extradited back to Kentucky from Oklahoma. Baquero was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

- On Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, around 1:20 p.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams responded to a single-vehicle collision on KY 818 North. His investigation revealed a 2006 Saturn Vue, operated by Jessie Biggs, 25, of Eddyville, was northbound on KY 818 when a rat reportedly ran up the driver’s leg, causing the driver to panic and lose control of the vehicle before colliding with a mailbox. No injuries were reported.

- On Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, around 10:51 p.m., Deputy Josh Travis responded to Hayden Drive in Eddyville for a two-vehicle collision. His investigation revealed a 2017 Nissan, driven by Jennifer Mathiew, 46, of Eddyville, collided with a parked 2009 Ford owned by John Balthus, 43, of Kuttawa. No injuries were reported.

- On Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, after 8 p.m., Deputy Josh Travis responded to a theft complaint at the Coleman Bridge boat ramp off KY 730 East. His investigation revealed a Princeton resident was at the boat ramp filming a video when he reportedly set his backpack on the pavement and continued filming. As he walked away from his vehicle, a dark-colored Suburban pulled into the parking area before a person exited and stole the backpack. The vehicle left the area on KY 730 East, but not before the victim was able to capture pictures of the suspect and the vehicle. On Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025, around 9 a.m., Sheriff Brent White identified the suspect, recovered the stolen property and charged George W. Grove, 57, of Eddyville, with theft related to the incident.

City Council Meets Tonight in Marion

 MARION, Ky. — The Marion City Council will meet at 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 18, at city hall.

The agenda includes the second reading of three ordinances — one amending the city pay plan and setting compensation for elected officials, one regulating street-legal special purpose vehicles, and one amending golf cart regulations.

Council will also consider a resolution to authorize filing a funding application for a Kentucky Water and Wastewater Assistance for Troubled or Economically Restrained Systems Program project, hear the mayor’s recommendation for a vacant Chamber of Commerce board seat, and receive code enforcement and planning and zoning updates from Tanya Scholtz-Byers.

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Court-Ordered Sale of Hardware Store
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Saturday, August 16, 2025

USDA EQUIP registration open until Sept. 26

 LEXINGTON, Ky. — Landowners, farmers and producers have until Sept. 26 to apply for assistance through the USDA’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) if they want to be considered for the next round of funding.

While the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) accepts applications year-round, funding selections for EQIP and other conservation programs are made at set times during the year. Applications received by the September cutoff will be evaluated for potential cost-share contracts during this cycle.

EQIP offers financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers and non-industrial private forestland owners to address concerns related to soil, water, air and other natural resources. Participants work with NRCS to implement voluntary conservation practices in exchange for reimbursement for a portion of the costs.

The program is open to those engaged in livestock or agricultural production, as well as owners of eligible forestland. In fiscal year 2025, Kentucky NRCS provided more than $25 million in EQIP assistance.

For more information, visit www.ky.nrcs.usda.gov, contact the Crittenden County Conservation Office at 118 E. Bellville St., Marion, or visit the USDA Service Center in Salem.

Friday, August 15, 2025

Davises purchase former True Value property

Colby Davis goes over sale documents
with Master Commissioner
Rebecca Johnson, who was in
charge of the public auction.
MARION, Ky. — Colby and Bethany Davis of Marion purchased the former Marion True Value property Friday afternoon in a court-ordered foreclosure sale.

The sale was ordered to settle a Byline Bank of Chicago lawsuit over a defaulted business loan involving Coffer Stores Inc. and multiple associated parties. The Davises bought the building, lumberyard, two storage buildings, a nearby residence and the store’s remaining contents.

For months, Colby Davis has pitched plans for an indoor sports complex to the local economic development corporation, tourism commission and other public groups, seeking support for the project. He previously purchased undeveloped land adjacent to Marion-Crittenden County Park.

Just under 35 people attended the sale, conducted by Buntin Auction Co., but only two entered bids, including Davis.

For more details, see next week’s full edition of The Crittenden Press.

UPDATE: Highway 297 has reopened


LATEST UPDATE 10:46am – The Roadway is now open.

UPDATED 7:52am — Crittenden County Sheriff Evan Head reports that KY 297 is temporarily closed between Tom Minner Road and KY 723 due to a crash that damaged a utility pole. 

Kenergy crews were summoned to the scene, and the road will remain shut down until repairs are made. Outages and traffic delays expected for at least 4 hours, until about noon today.

Power outages affecting almost 400 customers are reported in the area.

The driver was transported to a nearby hospital with what appeared to be non-life-threatening injuries. 


Thursday, August 14, 2025

Highway 723 shut down for accident

MARION, Ky. – Highway KY 723 in Crittenden County is blocked at mile point 5, just south of KY 838, due to a crash.

A utility boom truck has flipped over. 

Estimated duration is 4 hours. Motorists should seek alternate routes, if possible.

Traffic will be detoured at the intersection of KY 723 and KY 838, or mile point 5.8; and also at KY 723 and U.S. 60 in Salem.

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Monday, August 11, 2025

School system hiring bus drivers

Click Image to Enlarge
Looking for a short work-day and a great benefits package?  Consider becoming a bus driver in the Crittenden County transportation department.

Applications are being accepted online for school bus drivers.  Drivers work no nights, weekends, holidays or summers and receive opportunities for extra pay and a benefits package.
Call today for more information or visit Crittenden.kyschools.us to apply.





Lyon County Sheriff Weekly Report

On Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025, beginning around 8:30 a.m., deputies served the following warrants:

  • Michael J. Simmons, 29, of Bowling Green was charged on a Lyon Circuit Court indictment warrant with promoting contraband, first degree, and being a persistent felony offender. Simmons remains in state custody.
  • Phillip M. Hobdy, 39, of Owensboro was charged on a Lyon Circuit Court indictment warrant with promoting contraband, first degree, and being a persistent felony offender. Hobdy remains in state custody.
  • Bryan M. Enoch, 36, of Smithland was charged on a Lyon District Court bench warrant for failure to appear in a traffic case. Enoch was also served with a Livingston Circuit Court indictment warrant charging him with receiving stolen property valued at \$500 to less than \$1,000, first-degree criminal mischief, tampering with physical evidence, destruction of a VIN number, no registration receipt and no registration plates. He was later lodged in the McCracken County Jail.
  • Joshua W. Calvert, 29, of Lebanon was charged with promoting contraband, first degree, and being a persistent felony offender. He was also served with a Marion District Court bench warrant for nonpayment of fines, fees and costs. Calvert remains in state custody.
  • Lovell Turner, 28, of Louisville was charged on a Lyon Circuit Court indictment warrant with third-degree assault (inmate assault on a correctional employee) and being a persistent felony offender. Turner remains in state custody.

On Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, around 11:25 a.m., Sheriff Brent White and Capt. Dennis Beckett served

City Declares New Water Conservation Order

MARION, Ky. — For the second time in just over two years, the City of Marion is under a State of Emergency for water conservation after Mayor D’Anna Browning issued Executive Order No. 25-06 today, reinstating Stage 3 restrictions, the city’s most extreme level of conservation.

The order comes amid ongoing low-water conditions at Lake George, one of Marion’s primary raw water sources. City officials say already low water reserves are being worsened by excessive evaporation and limited rainfall. The National Weather Service predicts continued dry weather for our region, the mayor said, and August, September and October are typically the driest months of the year for Marion.

Under Stage 3, residents are prohibited from washing vehicles, sidewalks, or porches, and from using municipal water to irrigate non-food-producing plants. The goal, according to the city’s Water Conservation Plan, is to ensure essential water needs can be met while minimizing unnecessary usage.

The conservation plan, established by Ordinance 22-10 originaly in 2022 and amended in March 2023, also calls for increased public awareness and education about best water use practices, along with encouraging all residents to conserve wherever possible.

“We must be proactive in protecting our water supply,” Browning said. “The city will remain vigilant in monitoring the situation, and further orders will be issued should conditions change.”

This is the first time Marion has returned to Stage 3 restrictions since May 2023, when the city enacted the order after Lake George was purposely breached to prevent a levee failure. Plentiful rains later eased the crisis, allowing the city to drop to Stage 1 restrictions.

With current forecasts offering little hope for significant rainfall, city leaders are urging the public to take the restrictions seriously to avoid more severe shortages.

The emergency order remains in effect until further notice.

DISCOLORED SHORELINE: Sign of Troubles 

Discolored rocks at the lake’s edge near the city’s raw water intake show reddish-brown staining. 

City officials say this is a sign of elevated manganese levels in the water, which can occur naturally when minerals in surrounding soil and rock dissolve into the lake.

The city’s assessment could be correct because manganese, like iron, is a naturally occurring element found in many soils and rocks. In low-oxygen areas of a lake, especially near the bottom manganese can dissolve into the water. 

When that water is exposed to oxygen near shorelines or riprap, the manganese oxidizes and precipitates out, coating rocks with dark brown, reddish or even black stains. 

While iron typically leaves a brighter orange or red color, manganese can mix with iron deposits, altering the hue. This natural process can lead to higher manganese concentrations in the raw water drawn for treatment.

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Thursday, August 7, 2025

Some digital options phasing out


The Crittenden Press is phasing out its current online full-version subscription option as it prepares to roll out a new digital offering that will include access to the newspaper’s archives via Newspapers.com later this year. While the full online version is no longer available for new subscribers, current users will continue to receive it for the time being. Meanwhile, the ePress email edition remains available and is the most cost-effective option for readers. Subscribers can now choose from two formats:

•ePress – A PDF version of the full newspaper emailed each Wednesday for $32 per year. This edition renews automatically through PayPal unless canceled.

•Traditional Print Edition – Delivered weekly via USPS. Rates vary by location: $45 per year for Crittenden and bordering counties; $60 for other Kentucky addresses; or $86 for out-of-state delivery (which may take up to 10 days)

All subscriptions, both print and digital, are nonrefundable and subject to Kentucky sales tax.

Morris Estate Auction is Aug. 16

Click Image to Enlarge
A huge collection of guns of many makes will be sold from the collection of the late Everett Morris on Saturday, Aug. 16.

Additional outdoors equipment, household and shop tools, mowers and more are also included in the sale conducted by Buntin Auction Service at 303 Sturgis Rd., Marion. Sale begins at 9 .m.

This is a one you don't want to miss.

Click Here for Full Sale Listing

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Wednesday, August 6, 2025

School Board Special Meeting Thursday

Crittenden County Board of Education will hold a special called meeting and working session at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7 in the Rocket Arena Conference Room.

The agenda includes discussion on the 2025 tax rate, the district’s SRO contract, and roofing updates. The board will also consider approving an emergency certification for a shared financial literacy and career exploration teacher at the middle and high school levels.

Additional items include a review of Commonwealth Academy’s enrollment policy and discussion on creating a one-year lead preschool teacher position.

The board’s regular monthly meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12 at the same location.

DELAY | No school until September

Crittenden County Schools has pushed the first day of the 2025-26 school year to Tuesday, Sept. 2, due to delays in the delivery of desks, chairs and other classroom furniture for the new middle school addition.

Superintendent Tonya Driver said that while the new facility itself is ready, the company responsible for furnishing classrooms is unable to deliver before the original start date of Aug. 26 and does not offer weekend or evening delivery options.

“We’ve missed our students and we’re ready to begin learning,” Driver said in a statement to families. “We want to do so, however, in the best way possible.”

Despite the delayed start, no changes will be made to the 2025-26 academic calendar. The last day of school will remain May 28.

All professional development and planning dates for staff will continue as scheduled, and Opening Day for faculty and staff will still take place Monday, Aug. 25. A detailed schedule for staff for Aug. 26–29 will be shared by the end of the week.

Back-to-School Bashes may also be rescheduled, with more information expected later this week.

Families with questions can contact Superintendent Driver’s office directly.

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

Lyon County Sheriff's Report

From Lyon County Sheriff Brent White, here is last week's report, which also included information about its cooperation with Crittenden County in arresting three individuals jailed in connection to a shooting in southern Crittenden County in February.

- On July 22 around 2 a.m., Deputy Bobby Beeler investigated a car-deer collision on KY 93 South. A 2020 Dodge Charger driven by Joshua Oden, 35, of Cadiz struck a deer but no injuries were reported.

- On July 23 just before 1 p.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams investigated a minor crash on Fairview Avenue in Eddyville where a 75-year-old man backed into a parked vehicle. No injuries occurred.

- On July 27, a high-speed crash on Lake Barkley Drive in Kuttawa resulted in two minor injuries. Jonathan Ramos, 21, of Calvert City lost control of a 2019 Chrysler 300, hitting a guard rail and ditch.

- On July 30 at 5:50 p.m., Deputy Josh Travis served a criminal complaint on Amber Beckner, 45, of Eddyville for failing to send a child to school.

- On July 31 at 10:27 p.m., Deputy Shannon Oliver investigated a parking lot crash off Days Inn Drive where a truck backed into an SUV. No injuries were reported.

- On Aug. 1, Capt. Dennis Beckett arrested Shanda A. Walker, 37, of Winchester on a Fayette County

Monday, August 4, 2025

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Riverport Authority calls special meeting

Eddyville Riverport & Industrial Development Authority Board of Directors will hold a special called board meeting on Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at 7:30 a.m. in the Eddyville Riverport & Industrial Development Authority Inc. office located at 630 W Dale Ave, Eddyville, KY 42038.

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Friday, August 1, 2025

Downed power pole causes outage


More than 200 Kenergy customers were without power about 10:30pm Friday due to a downed utility pole north of Marion off of KY 91.

Crittenden County Sheriff's Department reports that a farmer accidentally struck the pole.

Customers will be without power for about two hours until the pole can be repaired. 


Hendrix will be honored at Friday breakfast


Carol Hendrix, 86, a lifelong farmer and factory worker from the Cave Springs area, will be inducted into the Crittenden County Agriculture Hall of Fame during the 4-H Fair Breakfast Friday morning at the Lions Club Fairgrounds. The event begins at 7 a.m.

Known for his humility, leadership, and early adoption of no-till farming, Hendrix spent decades balancing full-time work at Potter & Brumfield with managing a 275-acre farm, raising cattle, and serving in numerous agricultural and civic organizations.

Read the full story in this week’s edition of The Crittenden Press.

Thursday, July 31, 2025

Court Street transitioning to one way

MARION, Ky. — Due to ongoing construction at the new Crittenden County Judicial Center, Court Street in downtown Marion will permanently transition to a one-way street as early as next week.

Traffic will flow south to north, and signage is expected to be installed in the coming days. Striping of the new angled parking layout will follow shortly after.

City and county officials said the change is necessary to accommodate infrastructure updates and planned features along the back of the courthouse property. Construction supervisors are coordinating closely with local leaders to implement the change with minimal disruption.

Motorists and property owners along Court Street are encouraged to prepare for the new traffic pattern and directional parking shift. City officials plan to notify affected property owners directly.

Local text service launching Friday

Crittenden County Clerk Daryl Tabor has launched a new text service called TextMyGov. It’ll send out important info, like election updates or vehicle registration reminders, straight to your phone. 

If you’re in the 42064 ZIP code, you may get a text from 91896 to opt in. If not, just text “CRITTENDENCLERK” to 91896 to sign up. You can opt out anytime by texting STOP.

Highway closed Aug. 6 near county line


WEBSTER COUNTY, Ky. – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet plans to close a section of KY 120 near the Crittenden County line on Wednesday, Aug. 6, to replace a failing cross drain.

The highway will be blocked to through traffic between KY 1525 (Gardner Lane) at mile point 0.62 and Diamond Green Grove Road at mile point 2.309. The closure is expected to last from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the work centered near the 1.5 mile point.

There will be no marked detour, and motorists are advised to plan alternate routes.

Three charged in alleged murder plot


ALLEGED SHOOTING WAS IN FEBRUARY;

IN MEXICO COMMUNITY OF CRITTENDEN COUNTY

 ©The Crittenden Press 

Three individuals are being held without bond in the Crittenden County Detention Center on conspiracy to commit murder and other charges following the conclusion of a months-long investigation into a winter shooting in the Mexico community of southern Crittenden County.

The arrests stem from a Feb. 10 incident in which an unnamed male victim in his 30s was allegedly shot while driving along KY 70 near the intersection with Jackson School Road around 4 a.m. The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the left hip but was able to drive himself to Crittenden Community Hospital. The victim has recovered.

As a result of an investigation by the West Kentucky Violent Crime Task Force, Lyon County Sheriff’s Department and Crittenden County Sheriff Evan Head, arrests were made Thursday after sealed indictments were handed down Tuesday by the Crittenden County Grand Jury.

Jailed are Allison Robinson, 25, of Marion, charged with a Class B felony conspiracy to commit murder; Travis Robinson, 47, of Marion, charged with a Class B felony conspiracy to commit murder, a Class D felony possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, a Class D felony tampering with physical evidence and for allegedly being a persistent felony offender (PFO); and Jonathan Chase York, 40, of Marion, charged with a Class B felony for attempted murder, a Class D felony for possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, a Class D felony tampering with physical evidence and for allegedly being a persistent felony offender (PFO). The Class B felony charges against the two male suspects are enhanceable to Class A felonies under the PFO indictments. Based on the charges, it appears that York is believed to have been the actual shooter. 

Travis Robinson was taken into custody in Kuttawa at 12:44 a.m. Thursday by Lyon County Deputy Bobby Beeler. York and Allison Robinson were arrested in Crittenden County by Sheriff Evan Head later in the day.

Back in February, authorities said the shooting involved a small-caliber handgun, likely larger than a .22, and the bullet entered through the driver’s side door of the victim’s Ford Mustang. The investigation revealed enough evidence to warrant multiple felony charges against the three suspects, each of whom will be arraigned in Crittenden Circuit Court on Thursday, Aug. 14.

Beeler was initially involved in the investigation while he was briefly a deputy in Crittenden County. He later transferred to the Lyon County Sheriff’s Department, but continued the investigation with help from the other agencies.

At this time, a motive behind the shooting has not been publicly disclosed. All three suspects have lengthy criminal records involving drugs and other crimes. Three weeks ago, Allison Robinson was convicted in Crittenden Circuit Court of being in possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine) and misdemeanor charges of second-degree possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. She was given a probated three-year sentence. Travis Robinson is facing a firearms charge in Hopkins County, with formal sentencing set for Aug. 25. He also has previous trafficking convictions in Crittenden County and other felony convictions on his record. York has previous drug convictions in Crittenden and Caldwell counties and is currently on parole from at least one conviction. 

Post office lobby closed, back door open

Marion postmaster Adam Graham
The lobby of the Marion Post Office closed Thursday due to ceiling damage. It is closed indefinitely until work can be completed. 

Post office patrons may conduct business through the back door of the building on East Carlisle Street by ringing the buzzer near the loading dock.

Post office box access, stamp purchases and package drop-off will 
be handled by staff through the back entrance. 

Postmaster Adam Graham said a timeline for repairs should be known later today after a contractor surveys the problem.





STATE FARM | Thursday NEWScast

 


Wednesday, July 30, 2025

Tabor Road closing Friday for shoulder repair


A Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) Crittenden County Highway Maintenance Crew plans to temporarily close Tabor Road and KY 1113 on Friday, Aug. 1, weather permitting.

Tabor Road, a county-maintained route, runs south from the intersection of KY 902 and KY 855 to connect with KY 1113 at the Crittenden-Lyon County Line.

The closure will extend from KY 902 in Crittenden County to KY 1943 in Lyon County.

KYTC crews will be performing shoulder repairs along both sides of the roadway. Work is scheduled to take place from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday.

Motorists are asked to plan ahead and use alternate routes.

Tabor Road has seen increased traffic since the closure of the Livingston Creek Bridge at mile point 9.4 on KY 295, southeast of Dycusburg.

The new Livingston Creek Bridge is currently under construction, with an estimated completion date of the end of September, weather permitting. 

Fair Runs through Saturday Night

 

Crittenden County Fair Queens for 2025 are (from left) Brinley Tramble, 
Miss Crittenden County Teen; (Kendall Brooke Buell-Belt, 
Miss Pre-Teen; and Ella Geary, Miss Crittenden County.

🎪 FRIDAY, AUGUST 1 – FAMILY NIGHT
Starts at 5 p.m. @ the Fairgrounds

  • Pony Rides, Face Painting, Games, Concessions & More!

  • Just $5 per carload (kids FREE!)

  • 5:30 PM: 4-H Poultry Show

  • 6:00 PM: FFA Pedal Tractor Contest

  • 7:00 PM: Stick Horse Contest & Barrel Racing

🚗 SATURDAY, AUGUST 2

  • CAR SHOW: 9 a.m.–3 p.m. @ the Fairgrounds
    $15 entry fee | Awards at 3 p.m.
    Contact: Matt Tinsley (270) 704-1477

  • DEMOLITION DERBY: 7 p.m.
    Gate: $15 (16+), $5 (ages 6–15), under 5 FREE
    Contact: Rodney Travis (270) 704-9514

🎟️ Bring the family and enjoy the excitement of the fair! #CrittendenCountyFair #FairFun #DemolitionDerby #FamilyNight #CarShow #KYFairs2025

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

KY 91 closed Thursday for road work


FREDONIA, Ky. — The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet plans to close KY 91 in Caldwell County on Thursday, July 31, for a cross drain replacement.

The closure will block the highway to through traffic from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. between KY 70 in Fredonia (mile marker 23.3) and KY 139 in Princeton (mile marker 13.9). The work zone will fully block KY 91 between Bright Hill Road (15 mm) and East White Sulfur Road (16 mm).

A marked detour will direct drivers along KY 70 and KY 139. Motorists may also bypass the closure using U.S. 62 and U.S. 641 through Eddyville, though this alternate will not be marked.

The closure is expected to last one day.

Crash blocking I-24

GRAND RIVERS, Ky. — A crash has blocked both westbound lanes of Interstate 24 near mile marker 31 in Livingston County, according to a release from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.


Traffic is being detoured using the I-24 Exit 31 off-ramp at KY 453 (Grand Rivers/Smithland) and routed back onto the interstate via the on-ramp. Emergency crews are on scene, but there is currently no estimate for how long the closure will last.


Heavy traffic is expected along KY 453 and at the interchange as westbound motorists navigate the detour. Drivers are urged to avoid the area if possible.


Marion Post Office lobby temporary closed

Update: The lobby of the office is open.

The lobby of the Marion Post Office is closed indefinitely until work can be completed to repair ceiling damage.  Post office patrons may conduct business through the back door of the building on East Carlisle Street by ringing the buzzer near the loading dock. 

Post office box access, stamp purchases and package drop-off will be handled by staff through the back entrance. There is no timeline for repairs.

Monday, July 28, 2025

Lyon County Sheriff's Activity

WEEKLY SHERIFF'S REPORT

On Tuesday, July 15, around 12:24 p.m., deputies served a Whitley County bench warrant on Justin G. Jaynes, 33, of Williamsburg, for nonpayment of fines and court costs associated with a criminal mischief case.

Later that day, around 1:30 p.m., deputies responded to a criminal mischief complaint from the Lyon County judge-executive’s office regarding a county road that had been trenched by someone installing a water line to a nearby barn. The investigation led to Chief Deputy Sam Adams citing Lonnie J. McFadden, 48, of Oakland City, Ind., for second-degree criminal mischief. The estimated damage was $900. McFadden will face an August court date.

On Wednesday, July 16, around 8:15 a.m., Sheriff Brent White served a Lyon District Court bench warrant on Aiden J. B. Whiteman, 23, of Hickory, who had failed to appear in court for a DUI-related case. He was turned over to the Lyon County Jailer.

On Thursday and Friday, July 17–18, deputies served warrants on the following individuals:

  • Bradley Tanner, 45, of Calhoun, charged with second-degree escape out of Jefferson County. He awaits extradition.
  • Valerie Turner, 40, of Cave City, charged with flagrant non-support out of Hart County. She awaits extradition.
  • Wendy C. Furbush, 60, of Glasgow, charged with failure to appear in Barren District Court for a theft-related case. She awaits extradition.
  • Jimmy L. Clark, 21, of Clay, charged on four warrants from Webster County for failure to appear in cases involving criminal mischief, assault, disorderly conduct and traffic offenses. He awaits extradition.
  • Mackenzie Redd, 34, of Kuttawa, charged with contempt of court in a Graves District Court traffic case. Redd posted a cash bond and was released.

On Sunday, July 20, around 7:19 a.m., Deputy Josh Travis served a Lyon Circuit Court bench warrant on Marcko N. Palomo for failure to appear. He had been extradited to Kentucky from Florida and faces charges related to a felony drug trafficking case. Palomo was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

On Monday, July 21, around 3:38 p.m., deputies along with Eddyville and Kuttawa fire personnel responded to a hazardous materials incident on KY 293 at I-24. A semi hauling cars ruptured a fuel tank while exiting I-24 at Exit 45, spilling more than 300 gallons of diesel. KY 293 and the ramp were closed until midnight while cleanup and road repairs were completed. KYTC and KSP personnel also assisted.

On Tuesday, July 22, around 11:13 a.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams investigated a scam. A citizen received a computer pop-up claiming the device had been hacked and was scammed into sending thousands of dollars in Bitcoin to fraudsters located outside the U.S. The sheriff reminds the public not to divert money

Registration Open for Fall Soccer

FIRST NEWS NOW | Powered by 1st United Bank

Former Mayor Mickey Alexander
talks about the new Cherry Highway
Plus, solar farms in Livingston and Crittenden's fair


Saturday, July 26, 2025

Life’s Most Important Memorials

Henry & Henry Monuments | Marion, Kentucky

When it comes to honoring a loved one, every detail matters. From the shape of a headstone to the font etched in granite, families want a lasting tribute that reflects a meaningful life. At Henry & Henry Monuments in Marion, we've been guiding families through these deeply personal decisions for more than 140 years.

Since 1881, our family has served Western Kentucky with compassion, craftsmanship, and unmatched knowledge of cemetery guidelines across the region. With over 120 years of combined experience among our team, we help you navigate the many options available—traditional headstones, cremation markers, custom shapes, personalized engravings, and more.

Whether you're pre-planning or making decisions during a difficult time, our staff is here to answer your questions and make the process as comfortable as possible. We take pride in helping you create a memorial that tells a story, preserves a legacy, and offers comfort for generations.

Visit us at 207 Sturgis Road in Marion, or explore our services online at henryandhenrymonuments.com. You can also find us on Facebook for updates, design inspiration, and testimonials from families we've helped throughout the years.

Let our family help your family create a lasting tribute—because every life deserves to be remembered beautifully.



Friday, July 25, 2025

Fair events begin Saturday with pulls

Click Image to Enlarge
Events associated with the Crittenden County Lions Club Fair begin Saturday with the tractor and truck pulls.

Four additional nights of activities include pageants at Fohs Hall, a free Family Night, car show and the fan-favorite demolition derby.

All events, other than the pageant, are held at the Lions Club Fairgrounds near City-County Park in Marion.

Shop Local for These Fresh Products

GET MORE INFO

🛒
Local Producers & Farm Goods – Marion Area 

Support these hometown businesses offering fresh, local, and specialty products:

🔹 Bluegrass Farm Supply – Non-GMO feeds, plumbing & hardware (Mt. Zion Church Rd)
🔹 Camp Creek Farm – Pure Kentucky Maple Syrup (Rooster Lane)
🔹 Stutzman's Feed Mill – Custom livestock & pet feed mixes (Mt. Zion Church Rd)
🔹 Barnes Farms & Milling Co. – Fresh heirloom cornmeal, grits & ancient grains
🔹 P&H Cattle Co. – American Wagyu beef, pork, chicken & seafood
🔹 Croft Family Farms – Whole or half hogs & lambs, delivery available
🔹 Mary’s Veggie Station – Jellies, sauces, pickles & produce (Crittenden Springs Rd)
🔹 Tobie Mast – Sweet corn $4.50/dozen (Fords Ferry Rd, thru Aug. 14)

Eat fresh. Buy local. Support our farms! 🌽🐖🍅🥩🧄

Get More Information on these producers