Report from Lyon County Sheriff Brent White

LYON COUNTY SHERIFF’S ACTIVITY

On Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, beginning around 10 a.m. and continuing through the day, deputies served the following arrest warrants:

• Aramis S. Murray, 34, of Lexington, was charged with third-degree assault and second-degree persistent felony offender on an indictment warrant from Lyon Circuit Court.

• Dustin T. Smith, 23, of McKee, was charged with first-degree assault, first-degree promoting contraband, and first-degree persistent felony offender on an indictment warrant from Lyon Circuit Court.

• Jamie C. Muse, 33, of Williamsburg, was charged with first-degree promoting contraband and first-degree persistent felony offender on an indictment warrant from Lyon Circuit Court.

• Chase E. Sisk, 25, of Dixon, was charged with second-degree assault, first-degree promoting contraband, and second-degree persistent felony offender on an indictment warrant from Lyon Circuit Court.

• David A. Faulkner, 37, of Louisville, was charged with second-degree assault by complicity, second-degree promoting contraband, and first-degree persistent felony offender.

• Devery Shanowat, 32, of Virgie, was charged with first-degree assault by complicity, first-degree promoting contraband, and first-degree persistent felony offender.

• Timothy S. Meskimen, 53, of Lexington, was charged with second-degree assault by complicity, first-degree promoting contraband, and first-degree persistent felony offender.

• Donnie L. Ashby, 44, of Louisville, was charged with second-degree assault by complicity, first-degree promoting contraband, and second-degree persistent felony offender.

• Brandon M. Kraatz, 28, of Louisville, was charged with second-degree assault by complicity, first-degree promoting contraband, and second-degree persistent felony offender.

On Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, just before 7:30 p.m., deputies and Kentucky State Police (KSP) troopers were dispatched to a disturbance on KY 1055. The investigation revealed a domestic dispute between two adults. Austin L. Wilson, 38, of Eddyville, was arrested by KSP on a McCracken District Court bench warrant for failure to appear in a drug- and traffic-related case. In addition, Deputy Josh Travis charged

Ivy Construction: Built on Generations of Trust

When it comes to building or remodeling a home, few things are as valuable as experience that spans generations. For lifelong Crittenden Countian Ryan James, owner of Ivy Construction, craftsmanship isn’t just a career – it’s a family tradition. As a third-generation carpenter, Ryan has spent his life learning the trade, perfecting his skills, and carrying forward a reputation for quality and reliability.

“I grew up on job sites, watching and working alongside family,” Ryan says. “Construction is in my blood. It’s more than building houses – it’s about building relationships and creating spaces where families can live, grow, and make memories.”

Ivy Construction specializes in both new construction and remodeling projects, offering homeowners the confidence that every detail – from foundation to finish – is handled with care. Whether it’s building a dream home from the ground up or transforming an existing space into something new, Ryan and his team bring a personal touch to every job.

Helping manage the day-to-day operations is Pat James, Construction Manager, who ensures projects run smoothly and efficiently. Together, they offer not just carpentry expertise but also peace of mind that the work will be completed professionally and on schedule.

Licensed and insured, Ivy Construction takes pride in serving the community with the same integrity and dedication that have defined the James family for decades.

For more information or to discuss your next project, contact:

• Ryan James, Owner – (270) 704-1398

• Pat James, Construction Manager – (270) 969-0110

Ivy Construction: Local roots. Generational craftsmanship. A commitment to quality you can trust.

Fohs hosts remarkable Magnolias

 

The weekend's two-day performance of “Steel Magnolias” at Fohs Hall drew large crowds and rave reviews. Audiences praised both the performances, which included a dinner Saturday night, by local actresses and an atmosphere that included laughter, tears and memories stirred by the production.

The cast included Lindsay Sizemore as Truvy Jones, Holley Curnel as Annelle Dupuy-Desoto, Katie Keene as Clairee Belcher, Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie played by Terra Haire, M’Lynn Eatenton played by Trish Gage, Ouiser Boudreaux played by Brittney Meredith-Miller, and The Voice of KPRD portrayed by Cole Foster.

Behind the scenes, director Teresa Foster led a strong production team. Kim Vince served as producer, John Michael Gage as sound engineer and Cameron Hernandez as light engineer. Construction and set design were handled by Darlene Abell, Lauryn Faulkner,  David Foster, Kathleen Guess, Braden Locke, Elizabeth Rodriguez, Jessica Sherer, and Kim and Mark Vince.  Braden Locke also managed tables and hall decorations. Kim Vince was stage manager, assisted by London McCord and stage crew members.

Saturday's dinner was catered by Catering and Creations and served by CCHS FCCLA, adding to the evening’s appeal. Special thanks were also given to Wanda Olson and Market House Theatre for providing many of the props and accessories.

The combination of talent, teamwork and community support made this production one of the most memorable Fohs Hall performances in recent years.

FIRST NEWS NOW | Powered by 1st United Bank

 

LISTEN NOW

News | Sports | More

Today an Ethics Discussion 

State Urges Conservation Amid Latest Crisis

Lake George's waterline is receding daily

Marion city officials are continuing to work with state leaders and agencies as the water crisis persists and levels at Lake George continue to decline

Mayor D’Anna Browning had a conference call Friday with representatives from the state government, Kentucky Emergency Management and the Division of Water. Those agencies are closely monitoring the situation and remain in contact with the National Weather Service for both short- and long-term forecasts.

Officials said the state has an action plan developed in case there is no measurable rainfall over the next couple of weeks or so. Officials are holding out hope for rain this weekend, but only modest chances exist.  

Meanwhile, Kentucky Emergency Management continues to emphasize the importance of conservation, Mayor D'Anna Browning said, as residents and businesses adjust to reduced water supplies.

What's cooking on East College Street?

Something big is stirring on East Carlisle Street, and it could change the look and feel of one of Marion’s oldest business blocks. 

The Blue-Nunn Building, a century-old landmark most recently home to Coach’s Cleaners, is being cleared and reimagined. Renovation crews are already at work, and the project promises to breathe new life into a piece of downtown history.

What exactly is coming? You’ll have to read this week’s issue of The Crittenden Press to find out. Or you can also listen to Thursday's podcast to hear from the developer himself. 

SUBSCRIBE LINK

The Crittenden Press is your primary source of news and information for this community. We’re proud to serve our community and we take great pride in bringing you real news, sports reporting and other information that helps you know what’s going on in town and across the county. Help ensure that real reporting continues in this community by subscribing today. You can subscribe online to the full version of the newspaper for only $2.95 a month. Try our new e-Edition newspaper emailed straight to your inbox every Wednesday. Click here to SUBSCRIBE.

Copyright 2025 

Tax Bills Hold Steady, But Changes Worth Noting

Final decisions are in on local tax rates for 2025, and taxpayers can now see what that means for their bills. While some individual rates changed, the overall effective rate stays about the same as last year for most.

In this week’s Crittenden Press, we break it all down, including a chart that lets you calculate your own tax bill based on the value of your property.

The Press is your trusted source for this kind of detailed local information you won’t get anywhere else. This newspaper is supported by advertising and subscribers. Go here to subscribe. 

Salem Scene Sponsored by Brantley's

 

READ AT EARLYBIRDKY.COM

Boil Water Order in Crittenden County

UPDATE: Order lifted Monday, Sept. 22, 10am

ORIGINAL POST

Crittenden Livingston Water District has issued a boil water order along KY 855 South from the intersection of US 60 to the bottom of Amos hill toward Frances. 

This is in the southwest quadrant of Crittenden County.

Back to the Future | Community journalism

10am Saturday at CCPL

MARION, Ky. — Four of Crittenden County’s most recognizable names in community journalism will share stories from more than a half-century of local news during a special program at Crittenden County Public Library.

The event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 20, and will feature author and former Crittenden Press reporter Tim Farmer, former editor Daryl Tabor, current Press editor and publisher Chris Evans, and John Lucas, who began his career at the Press before becoming a columnist and reporter for the Evansville Courier & Press.

Farmer will also sign copies of his new book, This Ain’t The New York Times, during the program.

Library officials said the forum offers a rare glimpse into the stories behind the headlines that have shaped Crittenden County for generations.

STATE FARM | Thursday NEWScast

 

LISTEN NOW

News | Sports | More

Interview today with Todd Riley

about the Carlisle Street development

Former school board chairman Keith Hart dies

Former school board chairman and retired local businessman Richard “Keith” Hart, 71, of Marion died Sept. 16, 2025. 

A 1971 Union County High graduate and Murray State alumnus, he co-owned Marion Feed Mill for more than 40 years and was active in local civic and school leadership. 

Visitation is 4–8 p.m. Sat., Sept. 20, at Gilbert Funeral Home, with services at 2 p.m. Sun., Sept. 21, and burial in Pleasant Hill Cemetery. 

Memorials may be made to the Vince Clark Foundation of Crittenden County Schools. 

The full obituary will appear in next week’s Crittenden Press.

Glendale Area Rd. closed until late October

CRITTENDEN COUNTY – Highway KY 2123 in rural Crittenden County is closing Wednesday, Sept. 17, at mile point 1.63 for a bridge replacement project, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet announced.

The closure, just south of Glendale Church Road over Caney Fork Creek, is between KY 297 and KY 1668. Work is expected to be finished by the end of October.

Traffic counts show about 68 vehicles use this section of roadway daily.

Last Chance to Read this One

From the Sept 11 edition of The Crittenden Press

MARION, Ky. – A rural Crittenden County couple has claimed the 2025 St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway. Timothy and Hope Hodge, who live near Frances on a 45-acre farm, were watching WPSD-TV last Friday when Timothy’s name was announced as the winning ticket holder.

The prize is a newly built, 2,700-square-foot house in Paducah’s Westwood Hills, valued at about $665,000. It was the grand prize in a fundraiser that generated more than $923,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The Hodges, both in their 60s, said the win is life-changing, though they are uncertain whether to move into the home or sell it. They purchased their ticket the old-fashioned way, mailing in a check rather than buying online.

Hope, 71, has battled COPD, and Timothy, 65, retired from the City of Marion in 2022 after more than 40 years in maintenance.

“It ain’t hit yet,” Hope said of the win. “It’s the most I ever won in my life and Timothy, too.”

For the rest of this article grab last week's newspaper. It will be on newsstands until around noon Wednesday, or stop by our office for a copy anytime. 

Sheriff's Activity in Lyon County

LYON COUNTY SHERIFF REPORT

On Monday, September 8, 2025, at 1:45pm, Chief Deputy Sam Adams arrested Tawny M. Clinton (36) of Eddyville, and served her with a Lyon Circuit Court bench warrant for Failure to Appear in court as it pertained to a felony drug case. Clinton was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

On Tuesday, September 9, 2025, around 1:25pm, SRO Deputy Cory Jessup charged a 16-year-old high school student with Possession of Marijuana after receiving a complaint of a student using Marijuana inside a classroom. The contraband was recovered, and the child was suspended from school before being released to the custody of a parent. 

On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, around 8:15am, Chief Deputy Sam Adams served a Lyon District Court bench warrant on Randelle Stone (48) of East Point, GA, charging him with Contempt of Court. Stone later posted bond and was released from custody.

On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, around 8:30am, Captain Dennis Beckett arrested Tremont L. Flowers (28) of Benton, and served him with a Lyon District Court bench warrant for Failure to Appear in court as it pertained to a traffic case. Flowers later posted bond and was released from custody.

Saturday Book Signing at CCPL

 

Click Image to Enlarge

Cecil Croft Road Closed 2 Days this Week

Cecil Croft Road in rural eastern Crittenden County will be closed Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 17-18, about 3,200 feet southeast of the Hooten Road intersection for major repairs to a base failure. 

Officials are asking motorists to adjust travel plans and avoid the area during the closure. 

Crews will work to complete the project as quickly as possible to minimize the impact on local travel.

FIRST NEWS NOW | Powered by 1st United Bank

LISTEN NOW

News | Sports | Local Interviews

Today we welcome Kim Vince to discuss

the upcoming play at Fohs Hall

Mayor Sounds Alarm | Low lake level, looming weather

File photo of Lake George in June

MARION, Ky. — Marion Mayor D’Anna Browning is warning that the city’s water supply is again nearing a crisis point, as drought conditions and hot weather threaten to push Lake George close to emergency levels.

In a message to regional leaders Thursday, Browning said the city is working with Reveal Leak Detection to replace a valve at Crittenden Community Hospital. But she expressed concern that the Crittenden-Livingston Water District is not in a position to provide backup supply if the hospital needs it.

Browning said state officials had initially approved but later denied a request for outside bottled drinking water distribution, ruling that the situation is not yet considered an emergency. She questioned how low Lake George, Marion’s primary water source, must fall before state officials declare one.

Lake George on Sept 14, 2025

“We are close to the 2022 level after the breach, which prompted water to be pumped in and bottled water to be distributed,” Browning said.

That earlier crisis began in April 2022, when a leak in the lake’s levee promoted responders to drain Lake George to protect the dam’s integrity. With the reservoir partially lost, Marion has been left without a reliable raw water source, particularly when rainfall is in short supply.

For weeks in 2022, Kentucky Emergency Management trucked in thousands of gallons of water daily, pumping from the Tradewater River and other sources to the treatment plant. National Guard troops also helped distribute bottled water to residents, who were limited to strict conservation measures. 

The Kentucky Division of Water later declared Marion’s situation one of the most serious municipal water supply crises in the state’s history. Lake George eventually recovered a bit, but the incident highlighted the vulnerability of a community dependent on a closed reservoir.

Browning said cooler temperatures the last several days have temporarily kept manganese levels in the water under control. But with a return of hot, dry weather this week, she warned water quality could decline rapidly.

“Please understand my concern that we could very well run out of quality raw water soon,” Browning wrote. “I am not a fan of brinkmanship when it comes to supplying our people with potable water.”

Browning copied various local, regional and state leaders on yesterday’s email to ensure information to others as the city monitors the reservoir.

CLWD boil order LIFTED

Crittenden-Livingston Water District has lifted a boil water order that was issued Tuesday after a main line break on U.S. 60 just west of Marion.

The advisory had affected customers from the intersection of KY 1668 (Crittenden Springs Road) to Country Club Drive. 

Repairs were completed earlier this week, and testing confirmed the water is now safe for consumption. The order was lifted just before noon on Thursday.