Sen. Howell | Legislative Update

Week Eight of the 2026 Legislative Session

Crossover of proposed legislation is in full swing in the Capitol Annex, and more than half the session is complete. The General Assembly is moving into its most consequential stretch. Senate bills are being considered in the House of Representatives, House bills are advancing in the Senate, and the policy debates that define this session are sharpening.

This week, the General Assembly advanced one of the session’s most significant education measures, House Bill 1, allowing Kentucky to opt in to the federal Education Freedom Tax Credit program created by Congress in 2025. Beginning in tax year 2027, the program offers a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit of up to $1,700 for donations to certified scholarship-granting organizations that fund K-12 educational expenses. States must formally opt in for students to benefit, and more than two dozen have already done so.

Eligible students must come from households earning up to 300 percent of the area median income, making most Kentucky working- and middle-class families eligible. Scholarships, distributed by certified nonprofits that must direct at least 90 percent of contributions to students, may be used for tuition, tutoring, special-needs services, instructional materials, technology, transportation and other approved expenses. Public school students are not excluded and may use funds for qualifying educational support.

HB 1 does not create a new state program, raise taxes or reduce SEEK funding. The federal tax credit can be claimed regardless of Kentucky’s decision; the question is whether those contributions support students here or flow to other states. By opting in, Kentucky keeps those federal dollars in-state and expands educational opportunity without increasing state spending.

State budget update

As noted in prior updates, the top priority during a 60-day legislative session is our responsibility to enact a new two-year state budget. We’ve heard from many regarding the initial version of the House’s budget proposal, HB 500. HB 500 was a bare-bones starting point, and significant modifications were made this week. With the Senate now officially in receipt of the House’s proposal, next week is when our deliberate and meticulous work really begins.

I experienced success with two bills passing off the Senate floor this week. Senate Bill 157 will clarify Kentucky law governing certain mortgage loans and ensure greater consistency with federal lending standards. The bill also exempts loans with points and fees below the federal threshold from existing total net income limits and applies to contracts entered into after the effective date, aligning Kentucky law with federal standards and promoting consistency in mortgage lending practices.

Senate Bill 214 allows the Kentucky Department of Agriculture to accept and manage nonfederal funds and grants from public or private sources that support its programs and clarifies the department’s authority to apply for, administer and spend funds at all levels of government. The bill includes an emergency clause that allows the department to immediately pursue privately funded grants that would benefit agriculture across the commonwealth.

Several other measures were approved in the Senate this week and were either delivered to the governor’s desk or sent to the House for consideration.

SB 33 strengthens oversight of recovery residences by closing certification loopholes and requiring the state to notify local officials when a residence seeks certification, is certified or faces discipline.

SB 37 designates the treeing Walker coonhound as Kentucky’s official state dog in recognition of its

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Turley among 2026 KHSAA Hall of Fame class

WKU photo

MARION, Ky. – Crittenden County native Curtis Turley is among a distinguished Class of 2026 that will be inducted into the Dawahares/KHSAA Hall of Fame presented by Roberts Insurance on Sunday, April 26, at the Central Bank Center Ballroom in Lexington.

With the addition of this year’s 13-member class, the Hall of Fame grows to 542 all-time inductees since its inception in 1988. Tickets for the induction ceremony will be available at a later date at khsaatickets.org.

Turley, 72, now lives in Bowling Green, but he grew up in Marion and graduated from Crittenden County High School in 1972. He carved out a 32-year career as a head basketball coach across the Commonwealth, including at Lyon County and Graves County in western Kentucky, and won 624 games with 17 seasons with 20 or more victories. Beginning his head coaching career at age 22 in 1976, he made stops at a dozen Kentucky schools and is one of a select few coaches to lead three different programs to the Sweet 16 appearances – Warren Central (1982, 1983), Henderson County (1990) and Daviess County (2003). He was named Coach of the Year by both the Lexington Herald-Leader and Louisville Courier-Journal in 1996 and has previously been inducted into multiple state basketball halls of fame, including the Kentucky High School Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame and the Marion-Crittenden County Athletics Hall of Fame. He also spent time as an assistant coach and director of operations with the women’s basketball program at Western Kentucky University. 

“To me Curtis Turley has long been a legend in the coaching community,” said former Crittenden County coach Denis Hodge. “He is a gentleman’s gentleman and a mentor so many. He has always been so willing to help other coaches, and no one is more passionate about high school basketball. 

Also among this year’s inductees is Caldwell County golf standout Emma Talley, one of the most decorated players in state history. A 2012 graduate, Talley competed in seven consecutive state

Looking back at Hodge's mark on Marion

To mark the passing of longtime local businessman Leroy Hodge, we went into the archives and retrieved this article published in THE CRITTENDEN PRESS about two years ago, on February 15, 2024. 

Emil Leroy Hodge, 83, of Marion, died Monday, Feb. 23, 2026 at Livingston Hospital. Services are scheduled for 1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 28 at Marion Baptist Church followed by burial in Sugar Grove Cemetery. The family will receive visitors from 6-9 p.m., Friday at Gilbert Funeral Home and from 10 a.m., until service time Satur- day at the church.

From The Press archives | Available at Newspapers.com

It’s hard to imagine Leroy Hodge as an adrenaline junkie.

Most recognize him as somewhat of a stoic, reverent man who has served customers for many years from behind a sporting goods counter.

Yet, in his 20s and 30s, Hodge, now 81, learned to fly a plane, perform waterskiing stunts, race motorcycles and exercise an appetite for adventure as a scuba diver.

He even had an earring – if only for a day – just to prove he could do it.

It didn’t take long for Hodge’s enterprising spirit to develop into a successful business career.

Today, his namesake, Hodge’s Sports & Apparel, is on the eve of its 50th anniversary. It is a Marion landmark, a retail rock that has adapted to a varied clientele across six different decades, offering everything from motorcycles and trampolines to night-crawlers, tuxedos and electronics.

Hodge is Marion’s longest-operating retail business owner.

His career started miles from Marion in pipeline construction, but he returned to his father Charlie Hodge’s Westside Market in the 1960s working as a butcher.

In 1971, married with a young daughter, Hodge and wife Barbara purchased North Court S&T Hardware on East Bellville Street from Imogene and Raymond “Pat” Patmor. It was there that daughter Britt began “playing” store, laying a foundation for her future management of the current retail enterprise on Sturgis Road.

“It was his first leap of faith into business,” his wife recalls, pointing out that despite their desire to get into retail, it was rife with early heartache.

“I soon regretted it,” Hodge admits. “It made him sick – literally made him sick – the financial aspect of it,” Barbara said. “We were newlyweds and poor, we didn’t have any money.”

A few years later, Charlie Hodge sold Westside Market and Leroy Hodge sold North Court S&T Hardware, and the father/son team purchased York Sporting Goods on Sturgis Road and renamed it Hodge Outdoors. They sold motorcycles, bicycles, go-carts, hardware, paint, Franciscan China and wedding gifts. Charlie Hodge, who some may remember by his handle “Shotgun,” parlayed a hobby in CB radios into a Radio Shack franchise that meshed with Hodges’ business model.

On May 1, 1974, Leroy and Charlie Hodge opened Hodge Outdoor Sports. They soon phased out hardware, expanded the sporting goods department, and during the 1980s energy crisis sold wood-heater inserts.

Leroy Hodge later became the sole owner and transitioned into apparel after he found a good deal on Levis jeans from a Madisonville wholesaler. The apparel department grew from there, and today is

Development plan scrapped south of Fredonia

Area counties considering a resolution to dissolve an organization originally tasked with developing a mega industrial site south of Fredonia. 

Crittenden County Fiscal Court last week approved a resolution to dissolve the Pennyrile Westpark Industrial Development Authority, formally ending its participation in a multi-county effort to market a 500-acre industrial megasite near Fredonia. Other counties in the coalition are expected to consider similar action to withdraw and dissolve the authority, including Lyon, Caldwell, Trigg and Livingston.

The resolution states the authority “currently has no assets and is no longer deemed a viable option for the purpose of promoting economic development.”

The property for the proposed megasite was owned by the State of Kentucky, which had offered it to the authority for development. When the concept was introduced almost five years ago, it would have been one of only two megasites in the state available for industrial development.

Located near the West Kentucky Correctional Complex along the Lyon-Caldwell county line, the large tract was ultimately determined to be unsuitable for the intended purpose.

The authority was established to oversee development and marketing of the site. The Tennessee Valley Authority had expressed interest in assisting with the project, and there was cautious optimism it could become a key component in attracting large-scale industrial development to the region. The planned U.S. 641 relocation also was viewed as a potential transportation advantage for the site.

Updated Federal Emergency Management Agency maps showed a significant portion of the property in the floodplain. To confirm those concerns, a state grant was secured in 2022 to fund a comprehensive engineering study. The results of that study concluded the site was not feasible for development as an industrial megasite.

Consider Fohs Hall for your next 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.

 

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County Ethics Board meets Monday morning

Marion-Crittenden County Code of Ethics Board will meet at 9 a.m. Monday, Feb. 23 at the County Office Complex

On the agenda will be acknowledgement of financial disclosure forms and potential action for those in non-compliance, discussion and possible action on ethics complaint procedures

 The joint city-county board consists of appointees Susan Yarbrough, Dan Wood and Mickey Alexander.

Marion will celebrate 182nd Birthday

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The City of Marion marks its 182nd birthday this month.

Marion was incorporated Feb. 22, 1844. To celebrate the anniversary, the city office will host a birthday cake reception Monday, Feb. 23, 2026. A donated cake will be available to the public from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cake will be served on a first-come basis while supplies last.

Sen. Jason Howell | Legislative Update

Week Seven of the 2026 Legislative Session

With more than 30 legislative days complete of the required 60, the Senate has remained focused on steady, deliberate progress. At this stage of the session, nine of the Senate majority’s 10 top-priority bills have been filed and passed the Senate.

First, I’m happy to inform you that the first bill of this session to be signed by the governor and become

law is Senate Bill (SB) 172. It provides an additional tool to the Kentucky Public Service Commission to address energy affordability challenges. Under the bill, upon request from your utility company, the PSC could prevent sudden spikes in utility bills from fuel surcharges by allowing the costs to be spread out over time. I’m happy to see this bipartisan measure become law, as it should provide relief for you in the very near future.

I have heard from many of you regarding the early budget bill filed in the state House of Representatives and the budget process more broadly. I understand these discussions affect real families, and I appreciate those who have taken the time to share their concerns.

It is important to clarify where we currently stand. The state budget originates in the House of Representatives, and it has not yet passed that chamber. When the House delivers a proposed budget to the Senate, we will carefully review it, evaluate any changes and make revisions where necessary. That is the Senate’s constitutional responsibility, and we take it seriously.

Questions surrounding health insurance costs, benefit stability and long-term affordability deserve thoughtful review. Those issues require discipline, transparency and careful analysis. In fulfilling the Senate’s role in the budget process, our guiding principles remain clear:

Maintain a structurally balanced budget, ensuring recurring revenues support recurring expenses.

Exercise discipline with one-time dollars and avoid short-term budgeting approaches that create long-term instability.

Make thoughtful, transparent decisions that protect both taxpayers and public employees.

There is considerable work ahead before a final budget is enacted, and I will continue keeping you informed as the process moves forward.

On Thursday, the Senate welcomed military families from across the commonwealth for our annual Military Kids Day at the Capitol. This special event honors the children and grandchildren of those who serve or have served in the United States Armed Forces. Military kids endure long deployments, frequent moves, new schools and time away from parents who answer the call to protect our freedoms. These young Kentuckians explored a Capitol campus they may one day return to as public servants themselves. It was an honor to recognize their resilience and thank their families for the shared sacrifice that strengthens both our state and our nation.

Several bills were passed out of the Senate this week.

SB 9 streamlines regulations and creates new financing tools to support housing construction and redevelopment across Kentucky. The bill aims to increase housing supply, strengthen local economies and help more Kentuckians find homes they can afford.

SB 39 gives private landowners greater flexibility to manage lakes and ponds on their own property by allowing them to stock and fish without certain state limits on size, creel or methods. It also allows landowners to extend those privileges to others through written or electronic permission, while

Items recovered from Sunday burglary

Sheriff Head inventories items
recovered on Thursday.

MARION, Ky. – A 28-year-old woman was arrested Thursday in Crittenden County on multiple felony charges in connection with a burglary at a hunting cabin on Sunday, Feb. 15.

Breauna Moon is charged with first-degree possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), second offense; convicted felon in possession of a firearm; receiving stolen property; and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Crittenden County Sheriff Evan Head said a passerby reported seeing some of the stolen items at a residence in the Levias community Thursday. During the investigation, additional items were located at a nearby home on Zion Cemetery Road.

When deputies arrived at that residence, they found Moon along with items believed to have been stolen from the cabin. An inventory of recovered property included two long guns, knives, a welder, boots, tools and maple syrup. The recovered items were valued between $10,000 and $15,000, according to the sheriff.

Assisting in the investigation and recovery were Deputy James Duncan and Special Deputy Jason Hurley.

Sheriff Head said another person of interest remains at large and may be the male suspect captured on surveillance video inside the cabin during the burglary.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department at 270-965-3400.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Ferry idled by high west winds

Cave-In-Rock Ferry has closed due to hazardous weather conditions.

The ferry shut down at 9 a.m., Friday, Feb. 20, because of high west winds creating rough river conditions on the Ohio River.

Officials said an update will be provided once conditions improve and service can safely resume. 

Missing woman is located

MARION, Ky. - ShaDonn Clark, the Marion woman who had been missing for more than two weeks, has been located and is believed to be safe, according to a statement posted by her father on social media Friday morning.

In the post, he said Clark has been seen and that “all indications she is not in harm.” He wrote that she has chosen to leave and make no contact with him, family or friends, adding that he does not know why and that many questions remain unanswered.

Clark, 38, was last confirmed to have been seen in the early morning hours of Feb. 6 in Huntington, W.Va., after a series of sightings in northern Kentucky, southern Ohio and West Virginia.

Her disappearance was reported to authorities, and the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department became the lead agency in the case Feb. 13. 

In his post, Clark’s father thanked family, friends and the community for their prayers and support and expressed appreciation to Sheriff Evan Head for his efforts during the search.

No additional details about Clark’s location were stated. Sheriff Evan Head has confirmed this information. 

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New multiplier factor could benefit Rockets football

The Kentucky High School Athletic Association Board of Control has approved a major change that could significantly reshape football classifications beginning with the 2027-28 realignment cycle.

Under the measure, private schools will have their boys enrollment multiplied by 1.35 for football classification purposes and their total enrollment multiplied by 1.35 for track and cross country. Public schools will continue to use a factor of 1.0.

The adjustment means some private schools could move up a class in football and track and cross country when the next four-year alignment takes effect in 2027. The new alignment was supposed to be released today, but the multiplier change means more time will be needed to sort through the lineup. It is unclear when realignment will be released.

In football, Class A consists of the bottom 32 football-playing schools in the state based on enrollment. If enough private schools currently in Class A are pushed into Class 2A by the multiplier, that could shift the cutoff line downward – potentially allowing public schools near the margin to drop into Class A.

For Class 2A Crittenden County, that could be significant. If enrollment figures and statewide positioning fall favorably during realignment, the Rockets could find themselves back in Class A football in the next cycle. Crittenden has traditionally been a Class A football program. It won the state title in 1985. During its years in Class 2A, the Rockets have rarely advanced past the first round and routinely have been eliminated by Owensboro Catholic, a private school.

The KHSAA’s move is expected to generate discussion statewide, particularly among small public schools that have long argued competitive balance concerns in certain sports.

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Joined this morning by Judge-Exec Perry Newcom

This week's paper | Full of Local News

This week’s full edition of The Crittenden Press is packed with stories you won’t want to miss.

Inside this week’s paper:

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• A major state highway proposal that could reroute heavy truck traffic through a residential area near Crittenden County Elementary School. What does it mean for safety and local infrastructure?

• The latest developments in the search for Shadonn Clark, including updated timeline details.

• A deep dive into Marion City Council’s lengthy meeting addressing what the mayor called “egregious” budget errors and a potential $300,000 sewer fund shortfall.

• Coverage of Senate Bill 152, legislation that would eliminate school-based decision-making councils across Kentucky.

• A hunting cabin burglary caught on camera, with guns and a side-by-side stolen.

• The newly released audit of the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Office.

• Plus sports, school news, community events, opinion columns and historical features.

If you want complete access, including crime and court coverage, in-depth government reporting, sports recaps, obituaries, public records, and stories you won’t find on social media, subscribe to the digital edition.

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• The full eEdition delivered to your inbox every Wednesday at noon

• Complete access to every page of every issue

• Unlimited access to our archives dating back to the 1800s, included at no extra charge through our new agreement with Newspapers.com

That’s generations of Crittenden County history, searchable anytime, plus today’s breaking local news.

Support independent local journalism that has served this community since 1879.

Subscribe now at the-press.com or call 270-965-3191 to start your digital subscription today. 

Local leaders visit Frankfort to meet legislators

 

Local leaders paid a visit to Frankfort last Thursday, visiting with legislators and others such as Rocky Adkins (left), who is Gov. Andy Beshear’s senior advisor. Also pictured from (left) are Livingston County Judge-Executive Michael Williams, Marion City Administrator Adam Ledford, Crittenden County Board of Education Chairman Chris Cook, City Councilman Cutter Singleton, Crittenden-Livingston Water District Director Andy Hunt, Marion Mayor D’Anna Browning, Marion Code Enforcement Officer Tanya Byers, Crittenden-Livingston Water District Superintendent Abby Adamson, Crittenden County Attorney Bart Frazer and Crittenden County Judge-Executive Perry Newcom. 

LISTEN OUR INTERVIEW WITH THE OCUNTY JUDGE ON THURSDAY'S PODCAST

A delegation of Marion, Crittenden County and Livingston County leaders traveled to Frankfort late last week to meet with state officials during the current session of the Kentucky General Assembly, pressing for support on road funding, jail reimbursement and other local priorities.

Crittenden County Judge-Executive Perry Newcomb described the trip as an annual opportunity to “showcase Marion and Crittenden County” while advocating for resources critical to local operations. Joining Newcomb were Marion Mayor D’Anna Browning, representatives of the water district, school officials, the county attorney and other community leaders. Livingston County Judge-Executive Michael Williams also attended.

The group met with Gov. Andy Beshear’s senior advisor, Rocky Adkins, to thank the administration for prior support of the Crittenden-Livingston Water District expansion project and to provide an update on progress. Phase 1 is nearly complete, Newcom said, with the remaining portion involving an interconnection across Kentucky Dam that requires authorization from the Tennessee Valley Authority.

Road funding dominated discussions among county officials.

Newcomb said Crittenden County expected about $369,000 in its February road aid disbursement, roughly 30% of its annual allocation from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, but received about $165,000. The road department relies on state funds for more than 80% of its budget, covering salaries, fuel, equipment, culverts and general maintenance.

The reduction has prompted concern statewide, Newcom said, particularly among counties that depend heavily on road aid to meet payroll and continue projects through the end of the fiscal year.

Newcom cited a one-cent cut in the state gas tax at the start of the year as a contributing factor in reduced revenue. The judge said officials are hopeful a funding solution will emerge, similar to how the state addressed a shortfall in the senior meals program earlier in the fiscal year.

Economic development was also on the agenda. Local leaders met with cabinet officials to discuss the remaining balance on a loan tied to the North Industrial Park. With the loan maturing in March, Crittenden County officials requested an extension and were told options were available to work through the issue.

The delegation also highlighted the importance of continued state support for the Cave-In-Rock Ferry, which connects Crittenden County with southern Illinois. Newcomb said funding for the ferry often comes together near the end of the legislative process, requiring frequent communication between local and state officials. Right now, allocated funds are $200,000 short of what’s needed, Newcom said.

Another key issue was jail funding under House Bill 557. The proposal would adjust the per diem rate paid to counties housing state inmates and, in certain cases, reimburse counties for housing felony defendants prior to sentencing.

Newcomb cited a current local case in which a defendant has been held in the county jail since 2022. If the legislation passes as drafted, the county could receive reimbursement totaling more than $50,000. Lawmakers continue to negotiate details of the bill, including potential limits on how far reimbursements would extend.

While it may take months to determine the full impact of the visit, Newcomb said the goal was clear.

“Hopefully we were able to do some good,” he said.

Sheriff releases burglary suspect photos

MARION, Ky. - A hunting cabin was burglarized late Sunday night in rural Crittenden County, and authorities say the suspect was captured on security video inside the residence.

According to the Crittenden County Sheriff Evan Head, the break-in was reported at 11:33 p.m., on Feb. 15. Deputies determined the suspect forced entry through a rear door, then beat a lock off an interior door inside the cabin.

Two long guns, several tools and a 2021 KIOTI K9 side-by-side were taken during the burglary.

Security footage shows a male suspect inside the cabin with his face partially covered. He was described as wearing a ball cap, jacket, camouflage undershirt and possible blue jeans. Authorities say the suspect was armed with a handgun.

The stolen side-by-side was last seen leaving Zion Cemetery Road east of Marion in the Midway community and traveling toward the Salem area.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department at 270-965-3400. 

Handgun is in the suspect's waist

This is the stolen UTV

WATER DISTRICT | Lifts Boil Order

Crittenden-Livingston Water District's Boil Water Order issued on Saturday has been lifted.

Downtown Marion | Street Work Wednesday

MARION, Ky. – Motorists should be mindful of one-lane traffic Wednesday at the intersection of Bellville and Court streets in front of the funeral home as the city repairs a water line break beneath the street.

Maintenance Supervisor Greg Tabor said work will begin at 8 a.m., after school traffic has cleared the area, and is expected to be completed before school is dismissed. During the repairs, the street will be reduced to one lane.

Lyon County Sheriff Weekly Report

On Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, at approximately 1:30 p.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams arrested Kathy Baker, 49, of Water Valley, for being a fugitive from justice. Baker was listed in the NCIC database as having an active warrant from Pemiscot County, Missouri, for felony forgery. Baker awaits extradition back to Missouri regarding this offense.

On Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, at approximately 4:30 p.m., Sheriff Brent White responded to a two-vehicle, non-injury collision off KY 810 North. His investigation revealed Kimberly A. Dycus, 67, of Kuttawa, collided with a parked and unoccupied 2025 Chevrolet Trax in the parking lot of Suwanee Baptist Church. No injuries were reported.

On Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, just before 4:30 p.m., sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a drug complaint at a Kuttawa business. The complaint was investigated by Deputy Bobby Beeler and resulted in a charge of possession of marijuana against Tyler R. Frazier, 32, of Kuttawa. Frazier was cited to Lyon District Court to answer for the offense.

On Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, just after 8 a.m., sheriff’s deputies charged Juvontae T. Barney, 25, of Louisville. He was served with a Jefferson District Court bench warrant for failure to appear. Barney awaits extradition back to Jefferson County regarding this offense.

On Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, at approximately 9:24 a.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams arrested Travis Humphrey, 35, of Kuttawa, and charged him with burglary – 3rd degree; theft by unlawful taking – auto ($1,000 < $10,000); tampering with physical evidence; and theft by unlawful taking (< $500).

Humphrey is alleged to have unlawfully entered a garage and stolen an ATV, which he then sold to another person in the Suwanee area for cash. While on the property, Humphrey also is alleged to have stolen items

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ON TODAY'S PROGRAM | THE LATEST ON MISSING WOMAN

MARION, Ky. – Crittenden County Sheriff’s Office is now leading the investigation into a 38-year-old Marion woman who has been reported missing for several days.

Maria Shadonn Clark, who goes by Shadonn, was last in contact with her family in the early morning hours of Feb. 5. Authorities said she left her father’s residence in Crittenden County and had been visiting a friend in Alexandria, Ky. She departed Alexandria on Feb. 4 and has not returned home.

Surveillance video captured Clark at a gas station in the California, Ky., and Verona, Ky., areas on Feb. 5. Her last known location was at a Marathon station in Huntington, W.Va., at approximately 1:12 a.m. Feb. 6. She is believed to have been traveling alone.

Clark is described as a white female with blond hair and a slim build. She was last seen wearing a brown jacket, black shirt, black pants with a white stripe down each leg and black shoes. She was operating a 2017 black Dodge Ram extended cab pickup bearing Kentucky license plate N59011, with a CAT specialty plate displayed on the front.

The Campbell County Police Department initially took the missing person report. The Crittenden County Sheriff’s Office is now conducting the lead investigation.

Anyone with information about Clark or her whereabouts is asked to contact the Crittenden County Sheriff’s Office at 270-965-3400 or their local law enforcement agency.

Legislative Update | Sen. Howell

Week six of the 2026 Legislative Session

As we wrap up week six of the 2026 Legislative Session, the pace of work in Frankfort continues to accelerate. Committees are meeting daily with fuller agendas, legislation is moving to the floor and priorities are advancing with thoughtful debate. At this point in the session, more than 100 pieces of legislation have officially passed at least one chamber. This is a clear sign that the General Assembly is actively working to address issues important to Kentucky families. While there is still critical work ahead, this milestone reflects meaningful progress on policies focused on strengthening our economy, addressing affordability, supporting our communities, protecting taxpayers, bettering education and ensuring government operates efficiently and transparently.  This week, the Senate approved the following measures, and they may all be taken up by the House of Representatives. Senate Bill (SB) 158, a bill I sponsored, helps people who get upside down with their car loans. It sets clear rules to protect consumers when buying optional financial products tied to vehicle purchases, such as debt cancellation or value protection plans. It makes sure these products are optional, clearly disclosed and priced separately from loan interest. It prevents lenders or dealers from requiring consumers to buy them as a condition of financing or a vehicle sale. SB 158 establishes consistent standards for contracts and applies to new agreements beginning Jan. 1, 2027, helping provide transparency and fairness for Kentucky vehicle buyers. SB 110, another bill I sponsored, modernizes Kentucky’s vehicle titling and registration system by continuing the transition to secure electronic processes that reduce paperwork, improve efficiency and better serve vehicle owners, lenders and county clerks. The bill requires lienholders to use the electronic lien system beginning in 2027 and ensures the state’s electronic titling and centralized lien systems are fully operational before broader implementation. It allows vehicle titles to be stored

Water outages should subside later tonight

MARION, Ky. — Customers in eastern Crittenden County who remain without water service following Friday’s major main line break are expected to see improvements tonight.

The Crittenden-Livingston Water District reported earlier in the day that a 12-inch main broke at the Wilson Hill tank along U.S. 641 south of Marion, causing widespread low pressure and outages.

Crews have continued working into the evening to re-establish service in the eastern portion of the county. Officials said customers in that area should see relief by 9pm or so.

A boil water advisory remains in effect for customers along U.S. 60 West from Country Club Drive to the Moore Hill water tower until further notice.

Boil water advisory issued after main break

MARION, Ky. — A boil water advisory has been issued for some customers of the Crittenden-Livingston Water District following a major water line break Saturday.

The district reported a 12-inch main break at the Wilson Hill tank along U.S. 641 south of Marion earlier in the day, causing low pressure and outages in parts of the system.

As a result, a boil water order is now in effect for customers along U.S. 60 West from Country Club Drive to the Moore Hill water tower.

Officials advise affected customers to bring all water used for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth or making ice to a rolling boil for at least three minutes before use. The advisory will remain in place until further notice.

Water service disrupted by large main break

SALEM, Ky. - Customers of Crittenden-Livingston Water District experienced low water pressure and outages Saturday morning after a major water line break along U.S. 641 south of Marion.

District officials reported a 12-inch main break that has affected water reserves in the Wilson Hill water tank above Marion. Crews were dispatched and began repairs shortly after the break was identified.

The district said water service will be restored as soon as possible. Customers may continue to experience low pressure or temporary loss of service while repairs are underway.

Nominate someone for 10 under 40 Years Old

CLICK TO NOMINATE

The Crittenden Press is now accepting nominations for its 2026 “10 Under 40” Community Recognition Program. 

The initiative will honor ten outstanding professionals under the age of 40 who work in Crittenden County and demonstrate excellence, integrity and a commitment to serving the community. 

Nominees must be under 40 by Mar
ch 1, 2026, and work in one of 10 categories including agriculture, banking, education, medical, industry and more. 

Entries must be submitted by close of business Feb. 13, 2026. Nomination forms may be returned to The Crittenden Press office or emailed to information@the-press.com.

HERE IS A DIGITAL NOMINATION FORM

Clark, missing woman, last seen heading into W.V.

Authorities in northern Kentucky say a missing Marion woman was last seen making routine purchases in Campbell County before her pickup was later detected more than 150 miles away near the Kentucky - West Virginia state line.

Capt. Christopher Lauer of the Campbell County Police Department said Maria Shadonn Clark, 38, was last seen on surveillance video around 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, making purchases at a convenience store in Campbell County near Alexandria, Ky., including fuel and an Android phone-charging device.

Clark is known to use an iPhone, and Lauer said the purchase of the Android charger leads investigators to believe she may be in possession of a second phone.

Nothing in the video rises to the level of suspicion that would be alarming, Lauer said. However, investigators continue to search in earnest for the missing woman. She has not been in contact with her family since Feb. 4.

“She was laughing with the clerk and behaving consistently with someone who was traveling,” he added.

Authorities say that all indications at that time were that Clark was alone.

Lauer said Clark had previously visited the area and has an acquaintance there. He also noted that a cellphone ping placed her in the Ohio area several hours before the Campbell County store footage, though the ping was not precise enough to determine whether she was in Kentucky or Ohio at the time.

In the early morning hours of Feb. 6, a private license plate reader system detected Clark’s vehicle heading into Huntington, W.Va., area near the Kentucky state line.

The Campbell County Police Department has opened an investigation, and entered Clark into the National Crime Information Center database as a missing person. Lauer said there was “zero indication” at the point she was seen on camera in Campbell County that Clark’s life was in danger or that she had been abducted.

Crittenden County Sheriff’s Department and Marion Police Department continue assisting in the investigation. Anyone with information regarding Clark’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Marion Police Department at 270-965-3500 or their local law enforcement agency. #Missingperson

INSIDE THE HALL OF FAME | Members List

MARION, Ky. – The Farmers Bank Marion-Crittenden County Athletics Hall of Fame will open its hospitality room at Rocket Arena 30 minutes prior to the start of Saturday’s Hall of Fame Game, which tips off at 3 p.m. 

There will be one varsity girls’ game only, with the induction ceremony held at halftime. 

Friends, fans and family of the inductees are encouraged to visit with them in the hospitality room. 

Marion-Crittenden County Athletics Hall of Fame, sponsored by Farmers Bank, will formally induct three individuals on Saturday afternoon at Rocket Arena. 

Breanna (Cozart) St. Cyr and her father, Stephon Cozart, will be inducted together, honoring their standout contributions to area athletics, and Jessi (Hodge) Sigler will be the other inductee.

See this week's full edition of The Crittenden Press for full articles on each inductee. 

Here is a current list of all members of the Hall of Fame.

• Andrews, Josh – 2005 – Football

• Belt, Bruce – 2001 – Basketball

• Berry, Austin – 2022 – Football, Track

• Beverly, David – 2007 – Football

• Brasher, Don “Sucky” – 2002 – Basketball

• Bridwell, Lynn “Lefty” – 2009 – Baseball

• Brown, Nicky – 2009 – Basketball

• Champion, Jamie – 2006 – Football

• Conyer, Roy – 2001 – Football

• Courtney, Gaige – 2021 – Football, Basketball

• Cozart St. Cyr, Breanna – Year Not Listed – Volleyball, Basketball, Track

• Cozart, David – 2019 – Football, Baseball, Basketball

• Cozart, Spencer – 2004 – Basketball

• 
  
  Cozart, Stephon – 2025 – Football, Track, Basketball

• Croft, Jeremy – 2022 – Track, Basketball

• Croft, Jimmy – 2013 – Basketball

• Daniels, Markeata Brown – 2009 – Basketball

• Davidson, Glen “Ace” – 2003 – Basketball

• Dooms, Morgan – 2015 – Basketball

• Easley, Clinton – 2005 – Football

• Elder, Houston “Hound” – 2001 – Football

• Faith, Leonard – 2008 – Basketball

• Franklin, W.A. – 2006 – Basketball

• Gates, Pat – 2002 – Football

• Grady, Orville “Soupy” – 1998 – Football

• Gray, JD – 2003 – Football, Baseball

• Gray, Vanessa – 2011 – Basketball

• Green, Don – 2001 – Basketball

• Hart, Brad – 2017 – Football, Basketball

• Hart, George – 1998 – Basketball

• Head, Frank – 1998 – Football

• Hicklin, Robert “Hickie” – 2002 – Football

• 
  
  Highfil, Hugh – 2002 – Basketball

• Hill, Tim – 2016 – Basketball, Track

• Hinchee, Jeanee – 2007 – Basketball

• Hodge, Denis – 2006 – Football

• Hodge Sigler, Jessi – 2025 – Basketball

• Hodge, Shannon Collins – 2008 – Basketball

• Hopper, Jimmy – 2005 – Football

• Hughes, Charles “Turkey” – 1999 – Football

• Johnson, Tom – 2001 – Football

• Kirk, Melissa – 2021 – Soccer

• Knoth, Curtis “Gig” – 1998 – Football

• Litchfield, Louis – 2007 – Basketball

• Little, Dwight – 1998 – Football

• Little, Ercel – 2003 – Basketball

• Martin, Turner – 2012 – Basketball

• Mathieu, Jessica – 2018 – Basketball

• McChesney, James “Burlap” – 2003 – Football

• Mills, Billy – 2024 – Football

• Mills, Jim Fred – 1999 – Football

• Moss, Ronnie – 2003 – Football, Basketball, Track

• Mott, Chad – 2006 – Football

• Mott, Dennis – 2010 – Football

• Myers, Kyle – 2017 – Basketball, Football

• Myers, Ronnie – 2021 – Support Staff

• O’Leary, Angie Hobbs – 2019 – Basketball, Track

• Ordway, Bruce – 2008 – Basketball

• Owen, Aaron – 2024 – Basketball, Golf, Baseball

• Perryman, Chad – 2011 – Baseball

• Phillips, James – 2000 – Basketball

• Rich, Joey – 2014 – Football

• Rushing, Woodson “Chuck” – 1999 – Football

• Shadowen, Lige – 2003 – Basketball

• Sherer, Dwight – 2021 – Support Staff

• Shewcraft, Jeff – 2004 – Basketball

• Simmons, Ellis – 2005 – Basketball

• Smith, Bennett – 1999 – Basketball

• Starnes, Al – 2004 – Football

• Starnes, Angela – 2018 – Track Coach

• Stewart, Wompie – 2007 – Football

• Summers, Von – 2014 – Football

• Swisher, Bob – 2000 – Football

• Tabor, Charles “Bill” – 2003 – Football

• Tabor, Gerald “Hoopy” – 2000 – Basketball

• Tabor, Melissa Jones – 2009 – Golf

• Terry, William “Gander” – 1999 – Football

• Thompson, Sean – 2023 – Football

• Thurman, Greg – 2002 – Basketball

• Towery, Carlisle – 1998 – Basketball

• Turley, Curtis – 1999 – Basketball

• VanHooser, Carroll – 1998 – Football

• Wheeler, Floyd “Rip” – 2010 – Baseball

• Wheeler, Clark – 2019 – Track and Field

• Willoughby, James – 2012 – Track

• Winders, Nicky – 2019 – Basketball, Golf

• Woodall, Deller E. – 1998 – Football

• Woodall, Jerry – 2004 – Football

• Wring, Tommy – 2002 – Basketball

• 1945 Marion High Football Team – 2008

• 1963 CC High Football Team – 2008

• 1985 CC High Football Team – 2000

• 1942 Marion High Football Team – 2015

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Region 1 Academic Competition Results

GO HERE FOR COMPLETE RESULTS

WEST KENTUCKY — Results from recent Region 1 Academic Competitions have been compiled by David Snow, highlighting student achievement across the West Kentucky area. The event featured schools from all four districts within Region 1:

📎 Click here to view full results

District 1: Ballard Memorial, Carlisle County, Fulton County, Hickman County
District 2: Marshall County, McCracken County, Paducah Tilghman, St. Mary
District 3: Calloway County, Graves County, Mayfield, Murray
District 4: Caldwell County, Livingston Central, Trigg County

The competitions showcased academic excellence across a range of subject areas and grade levels. Schools competed at the district, region, and state levels.
📎 Click here to view full results

Lyon County Sheriff's Report

- On Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, around 12:20 p.m., Sheriff Brent White responded to a collision complaint on U.S. 62 East within the city limits of Eddyville. His investigation revealed a 2006 Ford F-450 bus, driven by Archie L. Hudson, 64, of Princeton, was traveling eastbound on U.S. 62 when a large piece of snow and ice became dislodged from the roof of the bus and struck a 2017 GMC Yukon driven by Hannah Lowry, 33, of Bowling Green. No injuries were reported.

- On Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, around 3 p.m., White arrested Joshua L. Williams, 43, of Cookeville, Tenn., on a bench warrant after he failed to appear in Lyon Circuit Court earlier in the day. Williams was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

- Later Monday, around 3:15 p.m., Chief Deputy Sam Adams arrested William M. McQuigg Jr., 43, of Kuttawa. He was served with a Lyon Circuit Court bench warrant for failure to appear in court. McQuigg later posted a cash bond and was released from custody.

- At approximately 6:30 p.m. Monday, Deputy Bobby Beeler and Adams responded to a complaint of a man urinating in the parking lot of a Kuttawa business. Deputies located the man in his vehicle, passed out with the engine running. He was identified as Todd B. Santee, 53, of Kokomo, Ind. Santee was administered field sobriety tests and subsequently arrested. He was charged with DUI, first offense, and possession of an open alcoholic beverage container in a motor vehicle. Santee was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

- Around 8:15 p.m. Monday, Beeler responded to a Kuttawa business for a two-vehicle collision in the parking lot. His investigation revealed a 2020 International truck, driven by Davis A. Mikel, 43, of

3 injured in house fire early Monday

MARION, Ky. – Three people were taken to the hospital and a two-story home was destroyed by an overnight fire on Aunt Jane Tabernacle Road in Northern Crittenden County.

Firefighters from multiple agencies were called to the scene shortly before 4 a.m., and found the home fully engulfed. Two adults and one child were treated for smoke inhalation and transported by ambulance to a Paducah hospital.

The fire occurred at 217 Aunt Jane Tabernacle Road on the southern end of the county road near its intersection with KY 91 North. In addition to the home, two outbuildings and two vehicles were destroyed.

Responding agencies included Crittenden County Fire, Tolu Fire, Salem Fire and Rescue, Mattoon Fire and the Marion Fire Department. Fire crews remained on the scene until around daylight and had to return later when the fire rekindled. 

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Marion woman missing near Cincinnati

Clark was last seen in this truck

MARION, Ky. - Marion Police are working with authorities in Campbell County (Alexandria, Ky.) and other agencies as they try to locate a missing Marion woman.

Authorities and family members are asking for the public’s help in finding Maria Shadonn Clark, 38, who has been reported missing and entered into the National Crime Information Center database by authorities in Campbell County. 

Clark was last seen in Alexandria around 11:55 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4. She was wearing black Puma tennis shoes, black sweatpants with white stripes down the sides, and a Mossy Oak Bottomlands camouflage hoodie with a logo on the front.

She is believed to be driving a black Dodge Ram pickup truck. The last known signal from her cellphone was detected in the early morning hours of Thursday, Feb. 5, in the Cincinnati, Ohio, area.

Anyone with information regarding Clark’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Marion Police Department at 270-965-3500 or their local law enforcement agency.