Siemens plant here will expand manufacturing

MARION, Ky. – Siemens Mobility plans to add about 20 manufacturing positions at its Marion facility as part of a consolidation of operations previously based in Louisville, a corporate spokesperson confirmed.

Though the company said it could not provide a specific timetable these changes are expected in the coming months. The move will shift certain manufacturing functions into a single hub in Marion, while Louisville will continue to operate as an administrative office.

The work transitioning to Marion involves production tied to wayside control systems, including wayside houses, also known as bungalows. According to the company, these systems support rail crossings and other trackside infrastructure and provide real-time information to train crews, surrounding communities, and rail operations centers located hundreds of miles away.

Stay tuned for the full edition of The Crittenden Press for further details and local reaction to the expansion.

Here's the latest on what's ahead

 MARION, Ky. – The National Weather Service this morning says Marion is near a sharp snowfall gradient as a major winter storm moves through the region, with totals ranging from 6 to 8 inches in southern parts of Crittenden County to potentially 12 inches or more closer to the Ohio River.

A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect, and forecasters say the storm will bring major travel impacts. Confidence remains high that much of the area will receive at least 8 inches of snow, according to the National Weather Service.

Meteorologists say mixing along the southern edge of the system is expected to create a sharp cutoff in snowfall near the Tennessee border, limiting totals there. The highest snowfall projections have shifted farther northeast, with the heaviest amounts now expected closer to Evansville.

The coming weather is likely to affect our publication schedule next week as The Press is printed in Elkton, Ky., right near the Tennessee border where icing is projected. As of now, our printing agent tells us to expect a one-day delay so that means the paper may not hit the streets until Thursday. The Press will continue to post and publish online across our digital platforms. 

Below are the last projection maps from the National Weather Service. Click them to enlarge.

City preparing for winter storm

City of Marion | Public Notice

State Meteorologist are reporting that the City of Marion should anticipate 8 to 12 inches of snow from Friday evening through Sunday morning.  We wish to encourage everyone to refrain from traveling during this time unless absolutely necessary.  It is likely that between utility lines leaks and continued snow accumulation resources will be strained to provide safe conditions.  If you experience power outages, please make sure to direct your communication to your power provider.  Customers might consider setting a faucet for a minor drip to help prevent freezing.  If you have an emergency, as always, contact 911.

Over the next 24 hours, the city will continue in preparation for the winter weather event.  Salt will be applied to main roads, however, with wind chill and temperatures expected to reach below 10 degrees, effectiveness will be limited.  Wind and continued accumulation will mean that even roads cleared will be subject to drifts and dangerous conditions.  Efforts to keep roads passable will prioritize main roads, secondary roads, then alleyways.

The City of Marion would like to remind the community that it is unlawful to throw, push, or place any ice or snow from private property, sidewalks, or driveways onto streets and alleys.  Please help to keep our community safe during these dangerous winter storms.  

We encourage you to check on your neighbors and those you suspect may be at risk, the greatest strength of a small town is our capacity to watch out for each other.  In the event you need access to a warming center, please call dispatch at (270)965-3500 for information or assistance.  We recommend you keep your phones charged and create a winter emergency kit not only for your home, but also for the car.  This will be a lifesaver in the event you become stranded.

Adam Ledford, City Administrator

Marion man charged in high-speed chase

A Marion man is facing multiple felony charges after a high-speed pursuit on Interstate 24 that ended with his arrest in Marshall County.

According to the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, deputies responded Jan. 15 to a report of a stolen vehicle entering Marshall County from McCracken County. The vehicle, a black Dodge Charger, had been reported stolen to the Hopkinsville Police Department and was confirmed to still be listed as stolen.

Authorities said the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver failed to yield. Marshall County deputies took over the pursuit once the vehicle crossed into their jurisdiction and also attempted a traffic stop.

The driver, identified as Everette Tabor, 43, of Marion, allegedly used the stolen vehicle to strike a deputy’s patrol car while fleeing. Deputies reported Tabor reached speeds of at least 100 mph before

What's on Tap in This Week's Press

There’s a lot packed into this week’s edition of The Crittenden Press – stories that spark conversation, moments that inspire, and developments that matter to life in our communities. From people making remarkable personal journeys, to decisions being shaped behind courthouse doors, to local history that still echoes today, this is one of those issues you’ll want to take your time with.

We’re also digging into issues that affect everyday life, highlighting voices you know, and sharing stories you won’t find anywhere else. It’s the kind of local reporting that only comes from being here, week after week.

If you’re not a subscriber, now’s the perfect time. A digital subscription gives you full access to our eEdition each week, and unlocks our Newspapers.com Press archives, with searchable editions of The Crittenden Press reaching back into the 1800s. That’s more than a century of local history at your fingertips.

Read it. Explore it. Rediscover it. Subscribe today and never miss what’s happening in Crittenden County.

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Winter Weather Watch for Friday - Sunday

A winter storm could bring several inches of snow and dangerous cold to the region this weekend, according to the National Weather Service Paducah.

Forecasters have issued a Winter Storm Watch for late Friday night through Sunday afternoon, citing increasing confidence that a heavier band of snow may move into parts of the region. Snowfall totals could reach several inches, with some locations possibly exceeding 5 inches, though dry air to the north could sharply limit accumulation there.

Travel impacts are likely, particularly for travel, as arctic air settles into the area. Wind chills are expected to drop below zero and could approach 10 below at times during the weekend.

Probabilities for moderate to major impacts have increased compared to earlier forecasts, including hazardous or potentially impossible driving conditions and possible closures and infrastructure disruptions.

Forecasters said uncertainties remain regarding the exact placement of the heaviest snow band, the timing of precipitation onset, and whether any mixed precipitation could occur.

Residents are urged to monitor forecasts closely and prepare for hazardous travel conditions beginning Friday night. Another forecast update is expected Wednesday afternoon.

No Marion City Council tonight due to MLK holiday

There will be no Marion City Council meeting tonight due to MLK Day; the meeting will take place on Monday, January 26 at 5pm.

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Lyon County Sheriff's Weekly Report

- On Friday, Jan. 9, 2026, around 11:21 a.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams was called to a collision in the parking lot of the courthouse. His investigation revealed a 2018 Ford Fiesta driven by Jackie Shawn, 51, of Eddyville, collided with a 2025 GMC Yukon driven by Alecia Williams, 52, of Eddyville. No injuries were reported.

- On Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, around 9:30 p.m., Deputy Bobby Beeler arrested Robert E. Gaines II, 33, on a criminal complaint warrant from Lyon District Court. Gaines was the subject of an investigation that began in November 2025 and was conducted by the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office after complaints were received regarding a registered sex offender who was reportedly using aliases on social media accounts in violation of KRS 17.544.

Gaines, who resides on KY 819 (Sunnyside Loop) near Kuttawa, is a convicted sex offender from Livingston County and a lifetime registrant on Kentucky’s Sex Offender Registry. He was charged with two counts of sex offender registrant social media identity violation. Gaines faces a similar charge in Marshall County, along with possession of marijuana. That case was investigated by the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office in September 2025 and remains pending in court. Gaines was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center and later posted a cash bond before being released. The Lyon County investigation is being led by Deputy Beeler.

- On Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, beginning at 10:30 a.m. and continuing after 3:30 p.m., deputies arrested and served the following warrants:

Michael M. Whitney, 36, of Scottsville was charged with a failure-to-appear bench warrant from Bullitt Circuit Court related to a fleeing or evading police and wanton endangerment case. Whitney awaits extradition to Bullitt County.

John R. Kingston, 41, of Fredonia was charged with a contempt of court bench warrant from Lyon Circuit Court related to a child support case. Kingston was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

Megan L. Sowders, 37, of Bowling Green was charged with two Warren District Court bench warrants for failure to appear and nonpayment of court costs, fees or fines related to two theft cases. Sowders awaits extradition to Warren County.

- On Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, just after 8 a.m., deputies served additional arrest warrants on Sowders, who was still in custody. She was charged with two Warren District Court bench warrants, one for failure to appear in a theft case and another for contempt of court in a traffic case. Sowders awaits extradition to Warren County.

- On Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, just after 9 a.m., deputies served two arrest warrants on Christina J. Griggs, 49, of Hopkinsville. Griggs was charged on two failure-to-appear bench warrants from Muhlenberg

Marion man found guilty of cultivating marijuana

State Trooper Darron Holliman hands evidence
to court security officer Ray O'Neal. The duffle
bag, full of loose marijuana, was shown to the jury

MARION, Ky. – A Crittenden County jury worked into the night Friday and found a local man guilty on three drug-related charges following a circuit court trial presided over by Judge Daniel Heady.

John Henry, 48, of Marion, was convicted of felony cultivation of marijuana involving five or more plants, first offense, and misdemeanor charges of possession of a controlled substance in the second degree involving hallucinogenic mushrooms and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The 12-member jury deliberated about 35 minutes before returning the verdict around 8:40 p.m. Friday following more than 12 hours in the courtroom. The jury recommended the minimum sentence of one year on the felony and $100 fines for each misdemeanor. 

Henry was taken into custody and will be back in court Feb. 12 for formal sentencing by Heady. 

Complete article in next week's full edition of The Crittenden Press. 

E-911 Board meeting moved to Tuesday, Jan. 20

MARION, Ky. - This month's Marion-Crittenden County E-911 board meeting has been rescheduled from Monday, postponed until 3;30 P.M., Tuesday, Jan. 20 due to the Martin Luther King holiday. 

City of Marion emails hacked | BEWARE

MARION, Ky. - Marion City Hall is warning residents and employees about a phishing email circulating that appears to come from a city employee and includes an eDoc link.

Officials said recipients should DELETE the message immediately and not click the link. City IT professionals are aware of the issue and are actively working to resolve it.

This Week in The Crittenden Press

Inside this week’s issue.
City Hall News: A former administrator files a lawsuit against city officials.

Major Bridges Reopened: Two key county routes are back open after months of closure.

Public Alert: A phone scam is targeting local residents with fake jury duty threats

There’s much more inside, but for the full story, you’ll need the paper.

Pick up your copy today or subscribe online.

Let's Do This | Staci Style Teams with The Press

See Staci's column in print
the first newspaper
of each month in 2026

When The Crittenden Press first asked if I’d consider joining its team as a lifestyle columnist, my initial reaction wasn’t excitement – it was pure panic. Me? A lifestyle columnist? The same woman who can’t get anywhere on time, has a laundry pile so large my family lovingly calls it Mount St. Laundry, and is famous for starting new projects even though there are already three unfinished ones begging for attention? Surely they meant someone more… put-together. More adult. More June Cleaver and less Frankie Heck. More Ethel Tucker and far less – well – me.

After sharing the news and receiving a round of lovingly sarcastic comments from my family, encouragement from my friends and a few heart-to-hearts with Jesus, here we are. Anyone who knows me knows two things: I rarely back down from a challenge, and “no” is not a word I practice often. Still, before anyone assumes I’m about to provide polished, Pinterest-worthy instructions on folding fitted sheets or organizing a pantry by color and can height – please rest assured, I am not qualified for that level of adulthood, and most everyone around me agrees. If you don’t, then I have somehow fooled you, along with Chris and Allison Evans at The Press.

Yet, somewhere in the conversations with friends and family, I realized that maybe that’s exactly the point of view people need – a point of view from those of us who are surviving but not necessarily thriving at all times. For those of us wearing mismatched socks and not caring who notices. Those of us who will invite you to dinner at their secondhand-but-newly-repainted kitchen table. Those of us who show up to birthday parties with a pretty gift bag holding a $20 bill only because the Facebook reminder popped up an hour earlier. Those of us who will cook you a homemade meal with old pots and pans. Those of us who can offer you a coat, gloves and a snack at a freezing baseball game, all because we haven’t cleaned out the vehicle since Obama was president.

CONTACT US

Those of us whose houses are clean and hair is done – but never both at the same time.

If anything, I’m more of a professional chaos coordinator and seasoned disguiser of all things broken, dusty or a little junky. I can make things look pretty. I can cook a good meal. I can start DIY projects with Olympic-level enthusiasm – finishing them is a different story. I can throw together a cute outfit like I’m in a hurry, which works out well since I’m always in a hurry. I don’t gentle parent, but I do parent with love, humor, a raised eyebrow and the occasional “Lord, give me strength” whispered into the abyss. And usually, with all that going on, life turns out pretty fun – and gives me plenty of material to share with all of you.

Since announcing this new gig, I’ve been asked, “Where do you find the time?” and “How do you keep up with everything?” Here’s the honest truth, though it may not be the most clever or well-thought-out answer: I just do. I run on little sleep and large cups of caffeine, but I genuinely enjoy the chaos that life throws my way. I literally wrote this article while shuffling between birthday parties and basketball practice – typing sentences in five-minute bursts and reminding my kids not to lick the icing off someone else’s cupcake. If there’s a perfect time to do everything I do, I haven’t found it yet. But I’ve always enjoyed sharing my life with others, and God gave me a way to share it with another group of people I may not otherwise reach. Though I may feel underqualified, when He says do it – you do it. Who am I to turn that away?

So no, I’m not the expert who will guide you to spotless counters or serene morning routines. But if you need someone to remind you that a good life doesn’t have to look perfect – and that the best stories often come from the biggest messes – then you’ve found your people in me. Trust me, I’ve learned many lessons and skills through the ability to look past the mess I created while laughing at myself in the process.

If you see me in public with two kids parkouring off the grocery store shelves and you have an idea for a topic, stop me and tell me. Even though my life is sure to provide plenty of material, I welcome all ideas. After all, Ryan Blackburn’s favorite place to wait is the grocery store parking lot because, as he often reminds me, I like to talk – to everyone.

If you follow me on social media, send me a message. If we aren’t friends on social media, we should be. I share recipes, family happenings and plenty of embarrassing stories that will make it worth your while.

It’s 2026 – the year I became a writer(ish), heavy on the “ish.” I’m excited, honored and only slightly unprepared.

But that’s never stopped me before. Let’s do this!

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FATE OF KHSAA SCOREBOARD IN QUESTION

Frank Riherd, the longtime architect of the Kentucky High School Athletic Association’s online Scoreboard, announced this week that he will retire from maintaining the system effective June 30 after being diagnosed with ALS, a progressive neurological disease.

In a statement released Jan. 10, Riherd said the decision was driven solely by his health, noting that he needs to focus on the time ahead. Riherd has operated the Scoreboard since its launch in 1997, building it into one of the most comprehensive and accurate high school sports reporting systems in the country.

According to a profile published by the Bowling Green Daily News, Riherd’s path to becoming the steward of Kentucky high school sports data was unconventional. He did not play sports in high school and instead gravitated toward music and numbers, taking piano lessons and playing the organ at Glasgow Baptist Church. His interest in statistics was sparked during Glasgow High School’s memorable 1968 basketball run to the KHSAA Sweet Sixteen championship, when the Scotties captured the state title at Freedom Hall.

The Daily News reported that Riherd began keeping statistics for Glasgow’s football and basketball teams the following year, drawn not to the games themselves but to the data they produced. His aptitude for numbers later earned him admission to the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he studied electrical engineering and worked on early data-analysis software.

After an engineering career that took him to California, Germany and France, Riherd returned to Kentucky in the late 1990s with an idea to use the emerging internet to share statewide high school sports scores. With encouragement from his father and support from then-KHSAA assistant commissioner Julian Tackett, the Scoreboard officially launched in the fall of 1997, the Daily News reported.

Over nearly three decades, Riherd refined the system from manually reported scores to a fully integrated platform used by schools, coaches, media outlets and the KHSAA itself. The Scoreboard has logged hundreds of thousands of games and millions of individual statistics, becoming a cornerstone of high school sports coverage across the state.

Riherd said he hopes the KHSAA finds a successor who shares his commitment to accuracy and detail, adding that the athlete has always been the system’s “North Star.

It's very dry for this time of year

Crittenden County recorded just 1.5 inches of rainfall in December 2025, making it the driest December in more than a decade and contributing to unseasonably dry conditions across the area.

While outdoor burning is currently permitted during daylight hours under state guidelines, officials urge residents to use extreme caution. Anyone planning a large fire is advised to notify central dispatch before burning.

The dry weather has already contributed to several recent wildfires locally. One fire last week burned more than five acres before being contained. 

Lyon County Sherif's weekly report

- On Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, at approximately 3:27 p.m., Deputy Bobby Beeler and other first responders were dispatched to a Parkview Drive residence for a reported overdose. A 46-year-old man was transported to an area hospital for treatment of medical and mental health issues. The investigation is continuing by Deputy Beeler. Lyon County sheriff’s deputies were assisted by Lyon County EMS and the Eddyville Police Department.

- On Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, at approximately 5 p.m., deputies served a Fayette District Court bench warrant on Gregory A. Stokes, 43, of Hickman. Stokes had previously failed to appear in court in an assault case. He awaits extradition back to Fayette County.

- On Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, at approximately 9 a.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams arrested Shelby King, 30, of Kuttawa, at a residence on KY 93. King was the subject of a Lyon Circuit Court bench warrant for a probation violation for a felony offense. He was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

- On Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, at approximately 6:30 p.m., Deputy Bobby Beeler served a Jessamine District Court bench warrant on Jordan Palmer, 37, of Lancaster, for failure to appear. Palmer awaits extradition back to Jessamine County.

- On Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, at approximately 8:14 p.m., Deputy Bobby Beeler was dispatched to a hit-and-run collision at a Kuttawa business. His investigation revealed a semi operated by Ngoc Thuc Tran, 29, of Carrollton, Texas, collided with a parked semi and left the scene. Once Tran was identified as the driver,

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Three vying county judge in Crittenden

Three candidates have filed for judge-executive in Crittenden County, and all filings for the 2026 primary election are Republicans.

Perry Newcom is the incumbent in the race for Crittenden County judge/executive. He is challenged in the Republican primary by Nathan Ratley and Todd Campbell.

In the sheriff’s race, incumbent Evan Franklin Head will face former deputy Ray Agent in the primary.

The jailer’s race includes incumbent Athena Hayes against former jailer Robbie Kirk.

Incumbent County Attorney Bart Frazer will face opposition from Chad Eric Nelson, an assistant commonwealth’s attorney serving Caldwell, Trigg, Lyon and Livingston counties.

Unopposed are County Clerk Daryl K. Tabor, PVA Todd Perryman and Coroner Brad Gilbert.

Here is a full listing of Crittenden County election filings for 2026 primary: 

COUNTY JUDGE/EXECUTIVE
Perry A. Newcom (Republican) filed Nov. 5, 2025.
Nathan Ratley (Republican) filed Nov. 7, 2025.
Todd Campbell (Republican) filed Jan. 6, 2026.

SHERIFF
Evan Franklin Head (Republican) filed Nov. 5, 2025.
Ray Agent (Republican) filed Nov. 10, 2025.

JAILER
Robert P. Kirk (Republican) filed Nov. 5, 2025.
Athena Hayes (Republican) filed Nov. 20, 2025.

COUNTY CLERK
Daryl K. Tabor (Republican) filed Nov. 5, 2025.

COUNTY ATTORNEY
Bart Frazer (Republican) filed Nov. 5, 2025.
Chad Eric Nelson (Republican) filed Nov. 5, 2025.

CORONER
Bradley R. Gilbert (Republican) filed Nov. 6, 2025.

PROPERTY VALUATION ADMINISTRATOR
Todd Perryman (Republican) filed Nov. 5, 2025.

MAGISTRATE / JUSTICE OF THE PEACE
District 1
Robert S. Horack (Republican) filed Nov. 6, 2025.
Danny Allen Fowler (Republican) filed Nov. 7, 2025.

District 2
Matt Grimes (Republican) filed Nov. 10, 2025.

District 3
Robert Kirby (Republican) filed Nov. 12, 2025.
Pamela A. Todd (Republican) filed Nov. 25, 2025.

District 4
Chadwick Wayne Thomas (Republican) filed Dec. 12, 2025.

District 5
Brennan P. Cruce (Republican) filed Nov. 5, 2025.

District 6
Craig B. Gilland (Republican) filed Dec. 30, 2025.
Bob Rowley (Republican) filed Dec. 15, 2025.

CONSTABLE
District 3
Paul Beard (Republican) filed Nov. 12, 2025.

District 4
Lynn Goodrich (Republican) filed Dec. 10, 2025.

District 5
Gregory J. Rushing (Republican) filed Jan. 5, 2026.

Three will seek county judge's post in Livingston

Livingston County’s 2026 primary election ballot is shaping up with sharp contrasts, featuring crowded races for the county’s top offices while at least one longtime incumbent faces no opposition.

The most competitive contests are for county judge/executive and sheriff, where multiple candidates have filed to appear on the May ballot. In contrast, the Salem-area magistrate seat held by Brad Hunter appears settled, with the incumbent drawing no challengers.

The race for county judge/executive in Livingston County includes three candidates, setting up a competitive primary and a general election in the fall. Incumbent Michael Williams is seeking re-election after winning a 2024 special election to fill the remainder of a term vacated by former judge Garrett Gruber. Also filing on Friday, the final day to register, was Democratic candidate Teris Swanson, who had been appointed by the governor as interim judge/executive before she and Williams squared off in the November 2024 special election. Williams defeated Swanson with 54 percent of the vote, 2,682 to 2,287. Republican Tina Gay Tinsley has also filed to run for county judge/executive.

The sheriff’s race is equally crowded, with four Republican candidates. Glenn Gordon, Shannon Edging, Donald Crawford and Shawn Malston are all seeking the GOP nomination. With no Democratic candidates filed for sheriff, the Republican primary will effectively determine the next sheriff.

Hang Up | Don't fall for scam going around county

Local officials are warning residents about an ongoing phone scam that has hit the area hard in recent days, with at least one individual reportedly losing more than $2,000.

In the scam, callers claim the victim missed jury duty and falsely identify themselves as being from the sheriff’s office. The caller then pressures the person to provide money or personal information, often threatening arrest or jail time if payment is not made immediately.

Residents are urged to hang up immediately if they receive such a call. Crittenden County Sheriff Evan Head said law enforcement agencies do not call individuals to demand money, fines or payments over the phone, and they will never threaten arrest as a way to collect funds.

Sheriff Head reminds the public to never give personal or financial information over the phone to unsolicited callers. Anyone who believes they have been targeted or victimized by this scam should report it to local law enforcement.

LEGISLATIVE REVIEW | By KY Sen. Jason Howell

The first week of the 2026 Legislative Session is now complete, officially beginning the constitutionally required 60-day budget session for the Kentucky General Assembly. While the opening days were largely procedural, they set the stage for the policy debates and budget decisions ahead. 

As a member of the Senate Majority Caucus, I can assure you our focus remains on you, the Kentucky taxpayer. We continue to advance fiscally responsible, pro-growth, conservative policies that have helped strengthen Kentucky over the past decade. 

You will notice in your upcoming paycheck that more of your hard-earned dollars are staying with you. Through pragmatic and thoughtful individual income tax reductions crafted by the legislature, the rate has been lowered from 6 percent to 3.5 percent, with the most recent 0.5 percent reduction taking effect January 1. Each half-percent reduction keeps approximately $700 million in the pockets of Kentucky families, providing greater flexibility as households manage rising costs. 

Throughout this session, lawmakers will focus on issues that matter most to Kentuckians, including affordability, economic growth, education, housing, job creation, public safety, and more. 

As a budget session, the coming months will be critical and demanding, as the legislature’s primary responsibility is to adopt a new two-year state budget and road plan. Under Kentucky’s constitution, the process begins in the House of Representatives, which drafts and passes the initial budget before sending it to the Senate. Once received, the Senate can propose changes, advocate for district priorities, and negotiate final spending decisions with House counterparts.

In addition to the budget, the General Assembly is considering individual policy bills. Any bill may be filed in either chamber and must move through committee review, floor debate, and votes in both chambers. Bills may be amended through committee substitutes or floor amendments, and identical versions must pass the House and Senate before being sent to the governor.

During week one, several notable Senate bills were filed, including legislation related to public safety, education, and economic policy. 

As the session moves forward, attention will turn to committee work. Committees will begin reviewing legislation, hearing public testimony, and shaping bills before they reach the Senate floor, where many of

CCHS girls tonight vs Lyon; Boys at Ft. Campbell Friday

Results and upcoming games were set this week in the Second Region All “A” Classic for both girls’ and boys’ basketball.

In girls’ play Monday, Lyon County defeated Fort Campbell 80-18, and Crittenden County routed Dawson Springs 64-13. Caldwell County and Livingston Central advanced with byes. 

Semifinal games will be played Thursday, Jan. 8, at Dawson Springs, with Caldwell County facing Livingston Central at 6 p.m., followed by Crittenden County against Lyon County at 7:30 p.m. The championship game is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 10, at 4 p.m. at Dawson Springs.

Boys’ tournament action on Tuesday saw Dawson Springs defeat Livingston Central 67-59, University Heights beat Fort Campbell 73-64, Lyon County cruise past Caldwell County 80-43, and Crittenden County knock off Heritage Christian Academy 68-48. 

Semifinals will be played Friday, Jan. 9, at Fort Campbell, with Dawson Springs meeting University Heights at 6 p.m., followed by Crittenden County versus Lyon County at 7:30 p.m. The boys’ championship game is set for Saturday, Jan. 10, at 7:30 p.m. at Fort Campbell.

Winners of each tournament will advance to the All “A” state tournament later this month.

Superintendent eval on agenda for tonight's meeting

Crittenden County Board of Education will hold a working session and special board meeting at 5:30 p.m., (tonight) Thursday, Jan. 8 at Rocket Arena Conference Room.

The agenda includes presentations on the Comprehensive and District Improvement Plans, test score updates and a new data dashboard. Board members are also expected to consider approval of a memorandum of agreement with Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the district local and state board facilities hearing report, the district facility plan and an agreement with ATLAS Kids for Applied Behavior Analysis services.

The meeting will also include the superintendent standards report and other discussion before the board enters closed session for a superintendent evaluation. The board will reconvene in open session prior to adjournment.

The board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, in the Rocket Arena Conference Room.

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Your first issue of The Press in 2026

This week’s edition of The Crittenden Press is packed with stories that connect past, present and future across our communities. 

From a major historical milestone gaining national attention, to local government decisions that could shape development for years to come, there’s plenty happening close to home. 

We also introduce a brand-new monthly feature, share a hometown success story that reaches all the way to Washington, and take a closer look at a piece of local history that’s been hiding in plain sight for more than a century. 

Add in election news, community updates and sports, and you won’t want to miss it. Pick up your copy or read online.

GET THE PRESS eEdition sent to your inbox each Wednesday without fail. No delays, no problems. GET IT HERE

LBL cracking down on feral bacon this winter

USDA PHOTO

LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES – The U.S. Forest Service and its partners will begin their annual effort to remove feral swine from Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area starting Jan. 12, using professional wildlife control methods rather than public hunting.

The removal work will be carried out by the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, known as APHIS, in coordination with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. Operations will continue through February.

APHIS wildlife specialists will euthanize feral swine using aerial operations and baited trapping. Helicopters equipped with Forward Looking Infrared, or FLIR, technology will be used to locate hogs, allowing trained personnel to direct removal efforts more efficiently. Trapping also occurs year-round, aided by hog sighting reports from visitors.

Feral swine are not native wildlife and are considered invasive. Officials say they pose safety risks to visitors, damage cultural and natural resources, threaten agriculture and harm native plant and animal species, including white-tailed deer and wild turkey.

“Feral hogs have become a challenge for all of us who care about Land Between the Lakes,” said Jim McCoy, area supervisor at Land Between the Lakes. “They can harm the land and wildlife we enjoy, so we’re working together with our partners to manage the problem in a responsible way.”

Visitors may notice increased official vehicle and aircraft activity in parts of Land Between the Lakes during the winter removal period. Officials emphasized that safety plans are in place for both staff and the public.

Most feral swine activity remains concentrated on the Tennessee side of the recreation area, though some sightings have been reported north of the state line. Daily operations will be based on confirmed hog locations.

APHIS has assisted with trapping at Land Between the Lakes since 2014, but earlier efforts did not remove hogs fast enough to stop population growth. In 2018, 70 feral swine were euthanized. With a longer and more intensive operational window, 1,445 hogs were removed in 2025.

Public hunting of feral hogs is illegal at Land Between the Lakes and is not considered an effective control method. Kentucky banned wild pig hunting in 2024 to prevent illegal releases and the spread of hog populations. In Tennessee, feral swine may only be taken on designated public lands under strict regulations, and it is illegal to possess, transport or release them.

Wildlife managers say recreational hog hunting often worsens the problem by dispersing animals, increasing nocturnal behavior and undermining coordinated removal efforts. Instead, agencies are pursuing intensive trapping and professional removal aimed at full eradication.

While hunting remains an important part of the region’s culture and conservation tradition, officials say eliminating feral swine is necessary to protect native wildlife, forests and agricultural resources across Land Between the Lakes and surrounding areas.

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Time to begin tax filing preparation

WASHINGTON — With the 2026 filing season quickly approaching, the Internal Revenue Service is urging taxpayers to take a few simple steps now to prepare for filing their 2025 federal income tax returns. Visit Get Ready on IRS.gov for checklists, updates and no-cost filing options.

 

One of the most important steps taxpayers can take is to access their IRS Individual Online Account. IRS Individual Online Accounts are available24/7, to view account information, make payments, manage communication preferences and protect tax information.

 

Use direct deposit

Due to the presidential executive order, Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account the IRS is phasing out paper tax refund checks. The IRS encourages taxpayers who do not have a bank account to open one so they can receive refunds by direct deposit.

 

Review new 2025 tax law changes

Recent legislation, such as the provisions in the One, Big, Beautiful Bill, includes several new deductions and credits that may reduce tax bills or increase refunds. Beginning in 2025, to be eligible to claim certain credits for other dependents, the taxpayer and their spouse, if filing jointly, must have valid Social Security numbers or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers issued on or before the due date of their returns (including extensions).

 

New Trump Accounts for eligible children

Parents, guardians and other authorized individuals will be able to open Trump Accounts, a new retirement savings vehicle for children under the age of 18 with a valid SSN. A pilot program contribution of $1,000 will be available for children who are U.S. citizens and born from Jan. 1, 2025, to Dec. 31, 2028. Visit trumpaccounts.gov for details.

 

Income from payment apps and online sales

All income from part-time work, gig activities or sales of goods and services is taxable. Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions, will be issued by payment card companies for any amount and by payment apps and online marketplaces when payments exceed $20,000 and more than 200 transactions occur for the year.

 

Digital assets reporting requirements

Taxpayers who bought, sold or received digital assets, including cryptocurrency, stablecoins or NFT, must report those transactions. Some taxpayers may receive Form 1099-DA from brokers. Regardless, all taxpayers must answer the digital asset question on Form 1040 and report any related income, gains, or losses. Visit Digital Assets for more information.

 

Get ready now

Take a few steps today, reviewing tax law changes, gathering documents and using online tools, to help ensure a smoother less stressful experience when filing taxes in 2026.

Lyon County Sheriff's Weekly Report

- On Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, around 5 p.m., Deputy Bobby Beeler charged a 17-year-old Fredonia juvenile with criminal mischief, criminal littering and disorderly conduct in connection with the Dec. 27, 2025, explosion incident off Eddy Creek Road. The juvenile voluntarily surrendered with parents at the sheriff’s office. After being processed, the juvenile was released to the custody of the parents per District Court.

- On Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, around 5 a.m., the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint concerning a fugitive staying at a Kuttawa residence. Over the next four hours, sheriff’s office personnel positively identified the fugitive and confirmed three active warrants for his arrest in Kentucky and one warrant from Illinois.

- Sheriff Brent White petitioned Lyon District Court for a search warrant for the residence, which was granted. Around 9:20 a.m., members of the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office, Eddyville Police Department and Kentucky State Police executed the warrant. The only occupant of the home was the fugitive. He initially disregarded verbal commands to exit a bedroom; however, after the deployment of pepper spray, he surrendered without further incident. A subsequent search of the home yielded additional evidence, including suspected methamphetamine, marijuana and numerous items of drug paraphernalia. Shane L. Jones, 52, of Paducah, was arrested by White and charged with contempt of court/resistance to order (McCracken Circuit Court), bail jumping (McCracken Circuit Court), failure to appear (Marshall District Court), failure to appear or pay (Massac County, Illinois), possession of a controlled substance, first degree (meth), third or greater offense (Lyon County, new), possession of marijuana (Lyon County, new), and possession of drug paraphernalia (Lyon County, new). Jones was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

- On Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025, around 10:30 a.m., White charged Harold A. Hale, 56, of Kuttawa, in connection with items found in his possession at the Kuttawa residence searched the previous day pursuant to a District Court search warrant. Hale voluntarily surrendered at the sheriff’s office and was

Hunting | Fishing License. Fee going up this month

State legislators have approved a new, standardized method for adjusting license, tag, registration and permit fees charged by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, tying future increases to inflation rather than periodic legislative action.

The changes were finalized following adjournment of the Interim Joint Committee on Natural Resources and Energy meeting Nov. 6 and took effect through administrative regulation 301 KAR 5:022.

Among the updates is a new reduced-cost $35 sportsman’s license for resident first-time buyers who have not purchased an annual Kentucky hunting or fishing license since 1996. The license includes resident hunting and fishing privileges along with spring and fall turkey permits, a trout permit, migratory bird and waterfowl permit, and a statewide deer permit.

Hunters will now be required to purchase a $10 permit to hunt bobcats, which was previously free. The motorboat registration fee structure has also been simplified, with fees now based solely on vessel length. Additional amendments adjust fees for boat manufacturers and dealers, as well as hunting and fishing guides and outfitters.

Going forward, Fish and Wildlife will make incremental fee adjustments every other year based solely on the Consumer Price Index calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Federal Duck Stamp and application fees are exempt from the CPI-based adjustments.

All licenses, permits, tags and registrations will be adjusted in January using CPI data from 2024 and 2025. The change will affect the remainder of the 2025-26 license year through Feb. 28, 2026, and the 2026-27 license year beginning March 1, 2026.

Agency officials said the new approach replaces an unpredictable system with smaller, more consistent adjustments.

“Relying on a widely accepted federal economic indicator to determine price adjustments for user fees helps our customers know when to anticipate changes,” said Gabe Jenkins, deputy commissioner for Fish and Wildlife.

Licenses, tags and permits for the 2026-27 license year went on sale Dec. 1, 2025. Officials encouraged hunters and anglers to consider purchasing before the anticipated January increase later this month.

Purchases can be made through the My Profile app on the Fish and Wildlife website at fw.ky.gov. For more information, the public may contact the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Information Center at 800-858-1549 or by email at info.center@ky.gov during weekday business hours.

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Local leaders heading to Frankfort Jan. 12

MARION, Ky. – Crittenden County leaders are finalizing plans for their legislative trip to Frankfort on Feb. 12, an annual visit aimed at advancing the county’s local agenda with state leaders.

The trip will include meetings with area legislators – Rep. Jim Gooch, Rep. Steven Rudy Bridges, Sen. Jason Howell and Sen. Robbie Mills Carroll – to provide updates on county priorities, with a primary focus on water infrastructure projects. Crittenden County Judge-Executive Perry Newcom said water issues will anchor the discussion, with time also expected for other local concerns.

As in past years, county officials also plan to meet with leaders of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to discuss ferry operations during the current budget and agreement renewal cycle, which will set funding for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, as well as updates related to the U.S. 641 project.

Additional stops are planned with economic development officials and at the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet.

Launch Pad opens today at former True Value building

MARION, Ky. – The Launch Pad will host its grand opening this weekend, Jan. 3–4, bringing a new baseball, softball and athletic training facility to Marion and the surrounding region.

The center, located at 223 Sturgis Road, was founded by area youth baseball coach Colby Davis and is designed to provide advanced instruction and player evaluations supported by Lexington-based Pitching Performance and Hitting Performance Labs.

The Launch Pad will be open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Team assessment slots are filled, but individual evaluation spots remain available by contacting Davis or general manager Tyler Boone.

The facility is being developed in two phases. Phase One opens this weekend with a 5,500-square-foot baseball and softball training area featuring multiple turfed hitting and pitching cages. Phase Two, expected to be completed this spring, will add a 14,000-square-foot gym with 24-hour access. When complete, the complex will exceed 20,000 square feet.

A separate 1,350-square-foot jiu-jitsu space also opens Jan. 3 and will be led by Brandon Ottosen of Inward Quest Jiu-Jitsu of Marion.

During the grand opening, guests can take part in free hitting assessments and a Bat Demo Day, with members receiving discounts on bats, gloves and other equipment through a partnership with Baseline Sports. Bats will be available on-site for players to test before purchasing.

“We’re thrilled to open The Launch Pad this weekend,” Davis said. “This project was shaped through vision and prayer. We look forward to welcoming everyone from Marion, Crittenden County, West Kentucky, Southern Indiana and Southern Illinois to our open house.”

More information is available by calling 270-994-2019, messaging The Launch Pad on Facebook, or visiting wkylaunchpad.com.

Boom likely explosive New Year's revelry

Authorities continue to investigate a loud boom reported by multiple residents across the area before midnight yesterday, but no cause has been identified. Checks with the U.S. Geological Survey confirmed there was no seismic activity in or near the region at the time of the reports, and the National Weather Service said there were no weather-related events that would have produced such a sound. 

Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department and the Marion Police Department both acknowledged receiving several calls from concerned residents, but officials said that as of now, the origin of the boom remains unknown. 

While the source of the noise has not been confirmed, there are several possibilities that could explain it. These include a mining activity, sonic boom from military aircraft operating at high altitude, which can sometimes be heard far from the flight path due to atmospheric conditions, or a meteor or fireball breaking apart in the atmosphere, which can generate a sudden, explosion-like sound. At this point, authorities emphasized that no evidence has surfaced to point conclusively to any single cause.

Crittenden County Sheriff Evan Head said reports so far indicate the incident appears to be isolated to Crittenden County and the immediate surrounding area such as around Sturgis, Clay and even Fredonia and Salem. He added that there have been no indications at this time that the boom was connected to any wider regional event.

It was very likely a charge of tannerite, some say, perhaps boosted by other additives.

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