April 29, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 042914  

CARUTHERSVILLE MAN ARRESTED ON INCEST CHARGE

A Caruthersville man has been taken into custody on an incest charge.

According to the Caruthersville Police Department, officers arrested 40 year old Antonio Truss following an investigation of a sexual assault case involving a minor.

A warrant was issued for Truss for two counts of incest.

WOMAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO STABBING INCIDENT

A woman is facing charges in connection to an alleged stabbing incident in Caruthersville.

According to authorities, on April 26^th, Caruthersville officers found a man in an apartment that had allegedly been stabbed. Officers also found a female suspect and placed her under arrest.

The woman, 27 year old Toni Hollywood, is facing charges of first degree domestic assault and armed criminal action.

Information on the condition of the victim was not available.

CHARLESTON CURFEW COMES TO AN END

Officials in Charleston have lifted a temporary curfew that was put into place earlier this month.

According to the Charleston Department of Public Safety, the curfew ended this morning at 6 am. The curfew was put into place due to recent violence.

POPLAR BLUFF BUSINESS INCUBATOR APPROVED FOR TAX CREDIT

A Poplar Bluff business incubator has been chosen for over $100,000 in state tax credits.

According to the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the Ozark Foothills Business Incubator in Poplar Bluff has been approved for $114,699.

The Small Business Incubator Tax Credit program is designed to generate private funds to be used to establish a “protective business environment” in which a number of small businesses can collectively operate, fostering growth and development during a business’ start-up period.

THREE RIVERS CELEBRATES OPENING OF NEW KENNETT LOCATION

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held last week to commemorate the opening of the new Three Rivers Center in Kennett.

The new 17,000 square foot Center replaces the 10,000 square foot space that previously housed the Center at Kennett.

The new facility includes the nursing classroom and skills lab for Three Rivers’ Practical Nursing program, plus three master classrooms, a dedicated ITV classroom, two full computer labs, two state-of-the-art science labs, and a Public Computing Center.

The ribbon cutting ceremony was held April 24^th and featured speakers such as Dr. Devin Stephenson, President of Three Rivers College and Jay Crafton, the Mayor of Kennett.

WARDELL TO RECEIVE $500,000 GRANT

The city of Wardell has been approved for a grant for half a million dollars.

According to the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the $500,000 Community Development Block Grant will go to assist Wardell in replacing its water system, along with constructing a new well house.

HAZARDOUS MOVING OPERATION TO BE HELD IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

The Missouri State Highway Patrol will be conducting a Hazardous Moving Operation next month in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies.

The operation will be held throughout the Troop E area in Southeast Missouri in May. A hazardous moving operation is designed to target vehicles that are being operated in a hazardous manner.

BRIDGE REPAIRS BEGINNING TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route TT in Butler County will be reduced to one lane for part of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

The bridge to be repaired is located between County Roads 432 and 434.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today through Thursday, from 8 am to 4 pm daily.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Stoddard County beginning today for pavement repairs.

The work zone will be located between Highway 25 and County Road 237 on Route AC. Weather permitting, work is scheduled to be done from 6 am to 5 pm daily through Thursday, May 8^th.

MODOT CREWS TO BE IN RIPLEY COUNTY FOR BRIDGE REPAIRS

Route W in Ripley County will be reduced to one lane beginning today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge repairs.

Work will take place, weather permitting through Thursday, May 22^nd from 7:30 am to 4 pm daily.

The work zone is located between County Road W-2 and Route AA.

STUDENT TRACKING BILL GOES TO GOVERNOR NIXON

Missouri lawmakers have given final approval to legislation that would prohibit schools from tracking students electronically.

The bill would bar school districts from requiring students to use "radio frequency identification technology" that would track or monitor their locations.

Supporters say they are not aware of instances in Missouri where the technology has been used.

House members passed the measure 90 to 56 on Monday. It passed the Senate last month 27 to 5 and goes now to Governor Jay Nixon.

GOVERNOR NIXON ADDS TO PLAN FOR MEDICAID EXPANSION

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has added a new prong to his proposal to draw down billions of dollars through a Medicaid expansion.

Nixon said Monday that he wants to use federal money to help pay health insurance costs for businesses with fewer than 150 employees. The state aid would be available only for people earning less than 138 percent of the poverty level, which is about $27,000 a year for a family of three.

The Democratic governor has dubbed his plan "Missouri Health Works." Legislative approval would be required to expand Medicaid eligibility and to authorize assistance for businesses to pay health insurance premiums.

Missouri's Republican-led Legislature has repeatedly rejected plans to expand Medicaid eligibility.

April 28, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 042814  

SEVERE STORMS MOVE THROUGH SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Severe storms moved through the area Sunday and overnight, which included tornado warnings.

Multiple tornado warnings were issued overnight for Northeast Arkansas and the Missouri Bootheel.

Flash flooding was also reported with roads underwater across Southeast Missouri. Water rescues were reported in Butler County.

Wind Damage was reported at a Cape Girardeau County RV Park. At least 7 RV’s were damaged, and one of them rolled approximately 25 yards. A pole barn next to the RV Park was also destroyed.

For information on road conditions in Southeast Missouri, go online to the Missouri Department of Transportation’s Traveler’s Information Map at traveler.modot.org.

WOMAN RAN OVER BY VEHICLE AND KILLED IN CRAIGHEAD COUNTY

Craighead County sheriff's deputies are investigating the death of a Monette woman who was found apparently run over by a vehicle near her home.

The Jonesboro Sun reports the body of 43 year old Sandra Ramsey Platz was found Thursday night.

Deputies said they're trying to determine whether Platz was intentionally killed or if her death was accidental.

BODY DISCOVERED IN MISSISSIPPI RIVER

A body found in the Mississippi River in northeast Arkansas is believed to be that of one of two men who vanished earlier this month after a barge sank.

The Blytheville Courier News reported Friday that a body was spotted in the Mississippi River three miles north of Barfield, which is near a terminal where the vessel carrying steel coil sank about two weeks ago.

The body has been sent to the state's crime lab for final identification, but investigator Robb Rounsavall says it's one of the two victims - Juan Nieves and Nicolas Perez - since a wallet was found on the body.

The body's identity hasn't been released, because next of kin hasn't been contacted and a confirmation hasn't been made through an autopsy or coroner's report.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff woman is facing a felony meth charge following her arrest on Friday.

According to the authorities, 31 year old Etha M. Link was taken into custody Friday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine.

Link is also facing charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of under 35 grams of marijuana.

MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE

Authorities arrested a Poplar Bluff man Sunday afternoon on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 54 year old Randall G. McAbee was taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine. McAbee is also charged with misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia.

THREE ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON METH CHARGE

Three men were taken into custody over the weekend in Stoddard County on a meth charge.

According to the Highway Patrol, 36 year old Buddy L. Lacey and 31 year old Robert A. Greenup, both of Poplar Bluff, along with 29 year old Robert L. Clark, of Puxico, are each facing felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

The men were arrested shortly before 11 pm Saturday.

DONIPHAN MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Doniphan man is facing multiple charges of possession of a controlled substance in connection with his arrest Friday afternoon in Butler County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 31 year old Kelly J. Kellas is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for hydrocodone, oxycodone, and methamphetamine. Kellas was also charged with felony possession of drug paraphernalia and misdemeanor tampering with evidence.

NEBRASKA MAN WANTED IN ORGEGON COUNTY IN CUSTODY

A Nebraska man who stole a police vehicle last week has been captured in Oregon County.

Authorities say 26 year old Jeffery Wegener was taken into custody early Friday morning.

Officers had been looking for Wegener since he allegedly stole a squad truck outside an Oregon County convenience store and drove it into the Eleven Point River.

It was thought that Wegener had left Oregon County and was possibly in Ripley County, however, he was spotted and later arrested in the woods about 10 miles east of Alton on Highway 160.

FIVE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR EAST PRAIRIE

Five people were seriously injured in a wreck Saturday evening near East Prairie.

According to the Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when a vehicle driven by 45 year old Adle G. Clark, of East Prairie, ran off of Missouri Highway 102 and struck a tree.

Clark suffered serious injuries as did four children in the vehicle, ages 3 to 6. Only one of the children was reportedly wearing a safety device according to the Highway Patrol crash report.

COMMON CORE TO BE DISCUSSED BY MISSOURI LAWMAKERS

Some lawmakers hope to make Missouri the second state to drop new education benchmarks and write its own student performance standards.

Legislation scheduled for debate on the Senate floor would form a panel to develop goals to replace the Common Core State Standards. The bill previously passed the House.

Under the bill, workgroups composed of parents and educators would recommend standards for English, math, science and history to the State Board of Education in 2015. Those standards would then be implemented by the 2016-2017 academic year.

Earlier this year, Indiana became the first state to dump Common Core after initially adopting the standards. More than 40 other states have also adopted the benchmarks for reading, writing and math.

April 25, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 042514  

MURDER SUSPECT ARRESTED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A Texas murder suspect has been taken into custody in Northeast Arkansas.

According to authorities, 54 year old Danny Mitchell Cannon, from Clyde, Texas, was taken into custody Wednesday evening in Strawberry.

Cannon reportedly has a warrant for first degree felony murder for the shooting death of 51 year old Brenda Ruth Holland in Baird, Texas.

MAN KILLED IN CONFRONTATION WITH POLICE

Authorities say a Walnut Ridge police officer fatally shot a man after the man shot a woman and then pointed his gun at police.

Walnut Ridge Police Chief Richy Thatcher says the man intentionally crashed his vehicle into the woman’s car early Wednesday. Thatcher says the man then shot the woman with a handgun.

Two Walnut Ridge officers who responded ordered the man to drop his weapon. Thatcher says the man then shot himself in the side then turned with his gun facing the officers. One officer opened fire, killing the man.

The police chief says the woman was taken to a Memphis, Tennessee, hospital, where she is in stable condition.

The man has been identified as Elijah Waltman, of Delaplaine. Thatcher says the officers involved in the incident are on paid administrative leave.

NAYLOR MAN CHARGED WITH POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

A man facing a statutory rape charge is now facing child pornography charges.

According to the Daily American Republic, 25 year old Billy Joe Wertenberger, of Naylor, was arrested this week on 10 counts of possessing child pornography.

Wertenberger is already facing a statutory rape charge for an incident involving a 13 year old girl. The child pornography charges come from images allegedly found during the statutory rape investigation.

ARKANSAS PROSECUTOR OBJECTS TO CLEMENCY RECOMMENDATION

A prosecutor in Northeast Arkansas has filed an objection to a recent recommendation by the Arkansas Parole Board.

The board recommended that convicted killer Denver Mitchell be released from prison on executive clemency. Mitchell was convicted of first-degree murder by Greene County jurors for the 1990 slaying and beating of Willard Williamson in Paragould and was sentenced to life in prison.

Greene County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Kimberly Dale has asked Arkansas governor Mike Beebe to deny the parole board’s recommendation.

ART FOR ANIMALS CLOSING RECEPTION IS TONIGHT

The Animal Welfare Alliance will be holding the closing reception for this year’s “Art for Animals” benefit tonight.

The free reception will be held from 5 to 7 pm at Artfully Framed in the Bluff Estates Shopping Center. Final bidding will take place on the art pieces tonight and there will also be prizes given out.

Proceeds from the event will go to the Animal Welfare Alliance. Pictures of the paintings up for auction are available online at facebook.com/artfullyframed.

35^TH ANNUAL MERCHANTS SHOWCASE TO BE HELD SATURDAY

The 35^th annual Merchant Showcase will be held tomorrow at Three Rivers College.

The Merchant Showcase gives local businesses and vendors an opportunity to showcase their services to the public. Participating businesses will have booths set up in the Bess Activity Center for giveaways, demonstrations, contests, and more.

There will also be the opportunity for visitors to win one of four cash giveaways. The Merchant Showcase will be held from 10 am to 3 pm on April 26^th. Admission is $1. Children, five years old and younger get in for free.

CRIMINAL CODE OVERHAUL APPROVED BY MISSOURI LEGISLATORS

Missouri lawmakers gave final approval to the first comprehensive rewrite of the state's criminal laws in decades.

The House and Senate voted Thursday to send the legislation to Governor Jay Nixon's desk. The measure would create new classes of felonies and misdemeanors, and reorganize crimes to fit the new penalty structure.

It also reduces the punishment for people convicted of possessing less than 10 grams of marijuana on their first offense and lengthens prison sentences for criminals who sexually abuse children.

Nixon has previously expressed reservations that the bill would do too much at one time. The overhaul passed with enough votes in both chambers to override a potential veto. Because of the vote's timing, Nixon would have to act before lawmakers adjourn in mid-May.

SENATE APPROVES COUNTY HEALTH REGISTRIES

County officials could compile lists of residents with health problems under a Missouri bill intended to identify people in need of help during disasters.

The bill given final approval Thursday by the Senate allows the creation of voluntary registries of people with "health-related ailments" who may need assistance in emergencies. The House passed the bill earlier, so it now goes to Governor Jay Nixon.

The identities of people on the list would be exempt from disclosure under Missouri's open-records law. But an incident report would be made public if any of the people are involved in a disaster or emergency.

April 24, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 042414  

ASSAULT REPORTED AT NURSING CENTER

Authorities in Steele say that an assault was reported last week at an area nursing center.

According to the Steele Police Department, early April 14^th Steele Police responded to the River Oaks Nursing Center in reference to a 911 call stating that two men entered the building, one being armed with a gun.

One nurse was reportedly assaulted and suffered a minor injury. A motive is unclear, but authorities say the suspects may have been after narcotics.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Steele Police Department.

FORMER TEACHER CONVICTED OF SEXUAL ASSAULT OF A STUDENT

A Poinsett County jury has convicted a former teacher on charges of first degree sexual assault and fourth degree sexual assault.

According to Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington, 40 year old Danny Shane Akers, of Trumann, was convicted of sexually assaulting a then 15 year old student and fathering her child.

Akers was sentenced to 25 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections and a $25,000 fine.

MISSING MAN FOUND IN NEW MADRID

A Caraway man who went missing earlier this week has been found.

According to KAIT, 81 year old Donald E. Ashley was found safe in New Madrid.

A silver alert was issued for Ashley by the Caraway Police Department on Tuesday.

MODOT ADVISING MOTORISTS TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR FARMING EQUIPMENT

The Missouri Department of Transportation wants motorists to be on the lookout for farm equipment.

Planting season is underway and tractors, trucks, and other farm equipment will be using and crossing state highways. Motorists are advised to slow down when they see farm equipment on the highway and to wait until it is safe before attempting to pass.

According to MoDOT, state roadways pass alongside more than 100,000 farms throughout the state.

HIGHWAY PATROL TO PARTICIPATE IN OPERATION LIFESAVER

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is joining with local volunteers to spread information on railroad safety.

According to Captain George Ridens, on April 28^th and 29^th, Troop E officers will be working with Missouri Operation Lifesaver volunteers in Butler and Scott counties to raise the awareness level for railroad crossing safety and trespass prevention.

Troopers will be part of safety teams that visit with motorists briefly in advance of certain railroad crossings. Team members will be reminding drivers about railroad safety tips as they approach crossings throughout the counties.

MISSOURI REDUCES ENERGY USE BY OVER 22 PERCENT

Governor Jay Nixon's administration says it has exceeded a goal to reduce Missouri's energy consumption.

Nixon signed an executive order in 2009 setting a target of a 2 percent annual reduction in state energy use for each of the next 10 years for state buildings under the direction of the Office of Administration.

The administration office says Missouri already has reduced its energy use by 22.5 percent, which it says equals an annualized decline of 4.45 percent.

The office says those figures include a greater than 16 percent reduction in electricity use since 2008 and a nearly 33 percent reduction in propane and natural gas use since that time.

BILL WOULD ALLOW SOME MOTORCYCLISTS TO FORGO WEARING HELMETS

The Missouri House has endorsed a bill that would allow motorcyclists over the age of 21 to forgo wearing helmets while travelling on the road.

Current law requires motorists to wear helmets or face a fine of up to $25 for each offense.

Supporters say adults should have the freedom to decide whether to wear a helmet and argue Missouri misses out on tourism because of the current law. Opponents say the helmet law protects riders during accidents and that the measure would cost the state in higher medical bills.

The measure given first-round approval Wednesday needs one more vote before moving to the Senate. Lawmakers adjourn May 16^th.

SPENDING BILL SIGNED BY MISSOURI GOVERNOR

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has signed a mid-year spending bill with funding for social services, education and a financially troubled St. Louis County school district.

The supplemental budget signed into law Wednesday moves $69 million to the state Medicaid program to offset a shortfall in Missouri's settlement payments from tobacco companies. It also includes an extra $3 million to help low-income people pay utility bills, and $2 million to help the unaccredited Normandy School District.

The measure also provides additional funding for public schools and colleges through June 30 to make up for shortfalls in gambling and lottery revenues.

Nixon froze $22 million budgeted for schools and colleges earlier this month, saying lawmakers had not included enough money in the supplemental budget.

April 23, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 042314  

SILVER ALERT ISSUED FOR MISSING CARAWAY MAN

Authorities in Caraway, Arkansas, have requested activation of a Silver alert for an elderly man who went missing on Tuesday.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 81 year old Donald E. Ashley was last known to be at 307 Lynn Street in Caraway. Ashley is described as a white male, 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing 200 pounds with brown eyes.

Authorities say he may be travelling in a 1998 White Ford Ranger with a black tool box in the back. Anyone with information about Ashley’s whereabouts should contact Caraway Police at 870-482-3434.

A picture of Ashley is available on the KWOC Facebook page.

FATALITY REPORTED IN JONESBORO FIRE

A fire at an apartment complex Tuesday has resulted in one death.

According to authorities, the fire was at Aspen Gardens in Jonesboro.

The identity of the person who died has not yet been made available.

TEENAGER IN CUSTODY FOR FIRING SHOTS IN CAPE

A teenager has been taken into custody in connection with a weekend shooting incident in Cape Girardeau.

Authorities say they were called to a location on South Frederick Street Saturday night in reference to shots being fired. Witnesses told officers that a gray vehicle had driven by and that a juvenile inside the vehicle had fired several shots.

Investigators located the vehicle and a 16 year old male who matched the description given by witnesses.

Officials say the teen has been turned over to juvenile authorities, who will decide what charges the boy will face.

ST. LOUIS MAN ARRESTED IN SCOTT COUNTY FOR DRIVING OVER 110 MPH

A St. Louis man was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon after allegedly driving over 110 miles per hour.

According to the Highway Patrol, 24 year old Devlin M. Gandy was arrested in Scott County on charges of speeding, 112 miles per hour in a 70 miles per hour zone and driving while revoked.

NEW MAYOR ELECTED FOR POPLAR BLUFF

Poplar Bluff has a new mayor.

Angela Pearson has been elected mayor of Poplar Bluff by the Poplar Bluff City Council. Councilman Ed DeGaris had previously held the spot.

In a post on her Facebook page, Pearson wrote, “My dreams for Poplar Bluff include prosperity for all, working together as a community, continued growth, revitalizing our downtown area and areas that have been left out in the past and much more.”

New council member Jack Rushin was chosen for Mayor Pro Tem. The positions of mayor and mayor pro tem are chosen each year by the city council.

EMERGENCY DISINFECTION TO BEGIN TODAY FOR WATER DISTRICT #2 IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Water District #2 customers in Dunklin County are under a boil water order due to an emergency disinfection that is set to begin this afternoon.

According to KFVS, the disinfection comes after authorities found Chironomidae larvae in the water system and compromised water storage tanks. The report says that no known human illnesses are associated with exposure to the larvae.

The boil water order will remain in place until the water quality has been restored.

SENATE COMMITTEE SCALES BACK PLAN CONCERNING COLLEGE TUITIONS

A Missouri Senate committee has scaled back a state budget provision that sought to prohibit public colleges and universities from offering in-state tuition rates to students living in the country illegally.

The Senate Appropriations Committee's plan would bar institutions from "knowingly" offer discounted tuition to such students. The committee resolved the final sticking points Tuesday in crafting its budget proposal for the next fiscal year.

Committee Chairman Kurt Schaefer, of Columbia, says universities don't have the means to investigate whether students are lawful residents. The House included the overall ban in its budget proposal after a St. Louis Community College decided to offer cheaper tuition rates for those students.

The Senate language would bar colleges from actively recruiting students from other countries to attend Missouri schools at lower rates.

GOVERNOR NIXON SPEAKS ABOUT TAX CUT LEGISLATION

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is raising new concerns that an income tax cut passed by the Legislature could have "cataclysmic" consequences for state revenues.

The Democratic governor said Tuesday that the bill could eliminate taxes on all income over $9,000, punching a $4.8 billion hole in the state budget.

Republican legislative leaders called Nixon's assertion "ridiculous," ''absurd" and "laughable."

Nixon did not veto the bill Tuesday but has indicated he will do so.

House Majority Leader John Diehl said Tuesday that lawmakers will attempt to override the veto before their session ends May 16.

An override requires a two-thirds vote in both chambers. That means Republicans would have to vote in block and pick up the support of at least one House Democrat.

CANNABIS EXTRACT BILL GIVEN FIRST APPROVAL BY MISSOURI HOUSE

The Missouri House has endorsed legislation allowing use of a cannabis extract by people whose epilepsy is not relieved by other treatments.

The bill would permit use of "hemp extract" with little of the substance that makes marijuana users feel high and greater amounts of a chemical called cannabidiol, or CBD. Patients would need to have epilepsy that a neurologist has determined is not responding to at least three treatment options. Patients or their parents would need a state-issued registration card.

Growers would have to be nonprofit organizations and have a license from the Missouri Department of Agriculture.

House members gave the measure first-round approval Tuesday by voice vote. It needs another affirmative vote to move to the Senate.

April 22, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 042214  

CAPITAL MURDER TRIAL DELAYED UNTIL SEPTEMBER

The murder trial of a Jonesboro woman in the shooting death of her husband is being delayed until September.

The capital murder trial of 34 year old Michelle Despain was rescheduled from the first week of May until September 8^th - but a lengthy investigative report of more than 3,000 pages led her attorneys to ask for the delay.

Despain has pleaded not guilty to being part of a plot in the August 24^th, 2011, shooting death of Marc Despain inside the couple's home.

Michelle Despain's father and another man have pleaded guilty to first degree murder in the case and were sentenced to prison. A third man pleaded guilty to hindering apprehension and was also sentenced to prison.

AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR NEBRASKA MAN IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Authorities in Southeast Missouri are searching for a Nebraska man who stole an Oregon County squad vehicle.

According to KFVS, 26 year old Jeffery Wegener allegedly took the vehicle Sunday night following an incident in Myrtle. The vehicle was reportedly driven into the Eleven Point River.

Wegener was last seen near the Ripley County line early Monday. Ripley County authorities are advising residents to alert police if they see Wegener and to also make sure your home and vehicles are locked.

STEELE TEENAGER ARRESTED ON FELONY CHARGE

A Steele teenager is facing a felony charge after her arrest on Sunday in Pemiscot County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 18 year old Adriana L. Nelson was taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance.

GAS LEAK REPORTED IN POPLAR BLUFF

A minor gasoline leak was reported yesterday in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the leak was located on the north end of town in the Oak Grove/James Boulevard area.

The leak was found to be only in the sewer drain water. Multiple agencies, including the Department of Natural Resources and the Poplar Bluff Fire Department, were called on to fix the problem.

PRESCRIPTION DRUG TAKE BACK DAY IS THIS WEEKEND

The 8th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is coming up this weekend.

The event will be held this Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm and multiple area law enforcement agencies will be participating.

The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.

MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK IN RIPLEY COUNTY

Staff members of U.S. Senator Roy Blunt will be hosting a Mobile Office next week in Ripley County.

Mobile Offices are opportunities for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

The mobile office will be held on Tuesday, April 29^th from 10 am to 11 am at the Ripley County Courthouse in Doniphan.

STATE SENATOR SEEKS ATTORNEY GENERAL’S OPINION ON NULLIFICATION BILL

A Republican state senator wants to know the opinion of Missouri's top law enforcement official on legislation that seeks to nullify some federal gun laws.

Senator Will Kraus, of Lee's Summit, sent a letter to Attorney General Chris Koster's office on Monday asking him to weigh in on the bill's constitutionality. The measure would declare "null and void" past, present and future laws deemed to be infringements on gun rights.

A spokesman for Koster confirmed the office received the request, but didn't comment further. The Democratic attorney general raised concerns about a similar bill last year that he said would have hurt cooperation among law enforcement agencies.

Both the House and Senate have passed the separate versions of the measure this year. Kraus voted in favor of the Senate bill.

CHANGES TO BRIGHT FLIGHT PROGRAM UNDER CONSIDERATION BY MISSOURI LAWMAKERS

Missouri lawmakers are debating an expansion of a college scholarship for top students that is designed to keep more of them in the state after graduation.

A proposal under consideration would add a forgivable loan component to the Bright Flight program. Each year a student works in Missouri after school would count toward one year of loan forgiveness. Leaving before the loan is repaid would require repaying the loan with interest.

Money for the new program was included in the House budget plan, but the Senate Appropriations Committee is scheduled this week to consider whether the funding should remain. Lawmakers have until May 9^th to pass all budget bills.

Legislation to enact the loan program was passed by the House and debated in the Senate last week.

April 21, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 042114  

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATE CHARLESTON MAN’S DEATH

Authorities in Charleston are investigating the death of an area man.

According to the Charleston Department of Public Safety, at about 3 pm on Friday, the agency began receiving 911 calls of shots fired on North Elm Street, near Mark Twain Park. Responding officers found a male gunshot victim inside a vehicle at the intersection of Elm and Lafayette Streets.

The victim, 44 year old Anthony Fisher, of Charleston, was taken to an area hospital where he later died.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Charleston DPS at 573-683-3737.

TWO PUXICO RESIDENTS ARRESTED FRIDAY NIGHT

Two Puxico residents were arrested Friday night on multiple felony charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 32 year old Rebecca L. Burkman and 29 year old Dale E. Burkman, were each arrested on felony charges of possession of precursors with intent to distribute, tampering with physical evidence, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

SIKESTON MAN FACING COCAINE CHARGE

A Sikeston man was arrested Friday night on felony drug charges for cocaine and marijuana.

According to an arrest report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Christopher J. Hicks-Berry was arrested in Mississippi County on felony charges of resisting arrest by fleeing, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute.

He was also charged with driving while suspended, speeding, and failure to drive on the right half of the roadway.

ILLINOIS MAN ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES

An Illinois man was taken into custody over the weekend in Wayne County on multiple drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 24 year old Joseph J. Prislin, of Columbia, Illinois, was arrested shortly after 2 pm Saturday afternoon.

Prislin is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, Xanax and possession of a controlled substance, Hydrocodone.

He has also been charged with misdemeanor boating while intoxicated, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

CURFEW IMPLEMENTED FOR WEST END OF CHARLESTON

Recent violence has caused Charleston officials to implement a curfew.

According to a post made Saturday on the Charleston Department of Public Safety Facebook page, the city council has made an emergency declaration implementing a curfew for the west end of Charleston from 11 pm until 6 am.

PEPSI FRANCHISE TO BUILD CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTER IN CAPE GIRARDEAU

A Pepsi franchise is planning to build a new customer service center in Cape Girardeau that could create 74 jobs.

The Missouri Department of Economic Development said Friday that Pepsi MidAmerica would complete the $3.1 million project.

The state is offering incentives of up to $1.3 million through community development block grants and the enhanced enterprise zone program.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SET FOR THIS WEEK ON I-55 IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Northbound  I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located between mile markers 17.4 and 18.4.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Wednesday, from 6:30 am to 5 pm each day.

INTERSTATE 155 TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Northbound I-155 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane this week for pavement repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, work is scheduled to take place from 6:30 am to 5 pm daily through Wednesday.

The work zone will be located between the 5.2 mile marker and the 6.2 mile marker.

PRESCHOOL PROPOSAL PASSED BY MISSOURI HOUSE

Missouri lawmakers are moving to put more support in preschool and early childhood programs.

House members this past week passed legislation that would allow public schools to begin counting some children attending early childhood education programs toward the basic state funding they receive. The measure is heading to the Senate where lawmakers have debated their own proposal.

Under the House measure, districts could count preschool students eligible for free and reduced price lunch. Unaccredited districts would have the option next school year, and those that are provisionally accredited could start in 2015-2016.

Accredited districts would need to wait until Missouri's school formula is fully funded.

Supporters say preschool can prevent children from falling behind early.

ARKANSAS UNEMPLOYMENT RATE UNDER 7 PERCENT FOR THE FIRST TIME IN OVER 5 YEARS

State officials say Arkansas' unemployment rate has dropped below 7 percent for the first time in more than five years.

The Arkansas Department of Workforce Services says the state's unemployment rate dropped to 6.9 percent in March, down from 7.1 percent in February. Agency spokeswoman Becky Heflin says it's the first time Arkansas' jobless rate has been below 7 percent since January 2009.

All major industry sectors posted gains in March. Jobs in leisure and hospitality rose by 3,200, while employment in trade, transportation and utilities increased by 3,000.

Construction added 1,900 jobs and government employment increased by 1,200.

The national unemployment rate was 6.7 percent in March.

April 18, 2014

ONE KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

A Hayti man has died following a single vehicle wreck Thursday afternoon in Pemiscot County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 59 year old Robert K. Lenox, was driving a vehicle on Route J, near Hayti, when he ran off the side of the road and hit a concrete culvert.

Lenox was later pronounced dead at an area hospital.

THREE FACING MURDER CHARGE IN CONNECTION TO PEMISCOT COUNTY MAN’S DEATH

Three men are facing a murder charge for the death of 60 year old Roy Jerrolds.

According to KFVS, 28 year old Gunner Lee Pind and 17 year old Kevin Slayton, both of Portageville, along with 18 year old Cody LeGrand, of Hayward, have each been charged with first degree murder, armed criminal action, first degree burglary, and second degree arson.

On April 10^th, Jerrolds was found dead with gunshot wounds inside a burning home in Pemiscot County.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE WARNING OF POSSIBLE FRAUD

The Poplar Bluff Police Department has put out a fraud alert after receiving reports of a phone scam.

Captain David Sutton, with the Police Department, tells us that they has received reports of a scam in which the suspect called intended victims, told them they had unpaid parking tickets, and asked for payment over the phone.

The suspect addressed the victim by name, and threatened to send Police Officers to arrest the victim if they refused. The suspect also apparently has the ability to make caller ID display a false number.

Captain Sutton says that the Police Department never solicits fine payments by phone, mail, email, or fax. Anyone who receives a call like this is advised to hang up and alert law enforcement.

TWO ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGE

Two people were arrested Thursday afternoon in Butler County on felony drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Basil W. Foster, of Ellsinore, and 25 year old Heather D. Jarrell, of Dexter, were each arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute – methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

RIBBON CUTTING TO BE HELD FOR NEW THREE RIVERS CENTER IN KENNETT

Three Rivers College has scheduled a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new location of its center in Kennett.

The ceremony will be held on Thursday, April 24^th at 11 am at the new building on Great West Drive. Refreshments will be served at the open house event following the ceremony.

The new facility includes three master classrooms, a dedicated ITV classroom, two full computer labs, and two state-of-the-art science labs in addition to a dedicated nursing classroom and skills lab.

MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR THIS MONTH IN ALTON

U.S. Senator Roy Blunt’s staff will host a Mobile Office this month in Oregon County.

The Mobile Office will be held on Tuesday, April 29^th from 1 pm to 2 pm at the Oregon County Courthouse in Alton.

Mobile Offices are opportunities for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

RURAL MAINSTREET INDEX UP OVER LAST MONTH

The overall index for an economic survey of bankers in 10 Midwestern and Plains states has risen for a second consecutive month, suggesting more growth in the months ahead.

The Rural Mainstreet Index hit 53.2 in April, compared with 50.1 in March.

The survey indexes range from 0 to 100, with 50 representing growth neutral. A score above 50 suggests growth in the months ahead.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss oversees the survey, and he says the results indicate that areas highly dependent on agriculture and energy are experiencing slower growth than they were a year ago. But he says recent increases in commodity prices should boost the economy in the months ahead.

Bankers from 10 states, including Missouri and Illinois, were surveyed.

EARLY VOTING BILL APPROVED BY MISSOURI HOUSE

Missouri House members have approved a pair of measures allowing early voting, though some lawmakers contend it would be too limited.

On Thursday, the House approved a constitutional amendment and companion legislation, each by a vote of 126-24. The measures would allow early voting for nine days, with polls to be open from 8 am to 5 pm on weekdays and four hours on Saturday. There would be no early voting on Sunday.

An initiative petition also has been proposed that could appear on this fall's ballot. It would allow early voting for six weeks, including weekends for the final 21 days before an election.

Some Democratic opponents say the House proposal is too limited and called it a distraction from the initiative petition.

MISSOURI LAWMAKERS PASS ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES BILLS

The Missouri House and Senate have each passed bills that would prevent people younger than 18 from purchasing electronic cigarettes.

But the legislation passed on Thursday would also exempt those products from the state's tobacco taxes, which opponents say would allow the nicotine products to be sold with fewer restrictions.

Supporters say taxing the products would prevent the measure from passing the Republican-led Legislature. They argued that failing to pass a bill would mean children could continue buying the e-cigarettes.

E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices used to heat a liquid nicotine solution and create vapor that is inhaled.

The House voted 129 to 19 to send its bill to the Senate, where senators voted 27 to 4 in favor of their version. Both chambers must pass identical legislation by mid-May.

April 17, 2014

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man is facing multiple drug related felonies along with a firearm charge following his arrest Wednesday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Dale D. Fry was taken into custody shortly before 8 pm in Wayne County.

Fry is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, possession of a controlled substance – hydrocodone, possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Fry is also facing a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm.

DOCTOR ACCUSED OF TAKING NUDE PHOTOS OF PATIENTS ARRESTED

A Paragould doctor has been arrested on charges of video voyeurism.

According to KAIT, 68 year old Paul Becton Jr., of Paragould, was taken into custody Wednesday in Newport.

A warrant was issued earlier this week for Becton’s arrest.

Authorities reportedly found numerous pictures of nude women on a cell phone that was taken from Becton during a search.

The warrant says that the pictures appeared to have been taken in a medical office during examinations. The search was prompted after a woman told police that she became suspicious after an examination that she may have been photographed.

BICYCLE TRAIL NEAR POPLAR BLUFF CLOSED TO TARGET SHOOTING

A bicycle trail near Poplar Bluff has been closed to all recreational shooting and target practice.

According to the Mark Twain National Forrest, the order is for the Wolf Creek Bicycle Trail area north of Poplar Bluff and is effective immediately to address public safety concerns.

A map of the affected area is available at the Poplar Bluff Ranger District Office on Maud Street.

ALLEY SPRING TO HOST JUNIOR RANGER DAY NEXT MONTH

Students will have a chance to learn more about nature at the National Park Service’s Junior Ranger Day on May 9^th.

Local schools are invited to bring their 2nd through 5th graders to the free event at Alley Spring on Friday, May 9^th starting at 10:00 am. The general public is also invited.

Schools and large groups should RSVP by calling Bill O’Donnell at 573-323-8093.

MESSIAH CONCERT TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND AT TINNIN FINE ARTS CENTER

Audience members will get to participate in a sing along concert this weekend at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

The performance of Handel’s “Messiah” will feature soloists from Kennett, Poplar Bluff, and Williamsville. Audience members will be able to purchase a score and participate along with the music.

“Messiah” is one of the most famous and most frequently performed pieces of choral music in the world and is best known for its “Hallelujah” chorus.

The performance will begin at 7 pm on Saturday, April 19^th.

ARREST MADE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY AS A PART OF ICE ROUND UP

Immigration and Customs Enforcement has arrested 24 men in Missouri and Illinois for what officials call "egregious" immigration violations, including individuals who entered the country illegally and committed crimes.

The arrests, made in a five-day roundup last week, were announced Tuesday. Arrests were made in New Madrid and St. Charles Counties in Missouri along with four counties in Illinois.

ICE says 15 of those arrested were criminals with convictions that include sexual misconduct, felonious restraint and other charges. Others arrested were fugitives with outstanding deportation orders.

ICE says 14 of the suspects are from Mexico, nine from Guatemala and one from India. An immigration judge will determine whether the suspects should be deported.

GOVERNOR NIXON BLASTS TAX CUT BILL

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is describing a tax-cut bill passed by the Legislature as a "reckless fiscal experiment."

The Democratic governor indicated Wednesday that he likely will veto the income tax cut, just as he did a similar bill passed last year by the Republican-led Legislature.

Nixon convened a news conference to denounce the legislation a mere hour after the House gave it final approval on a 104 to 48 vote.

The legislation would gradually cut Missouri's top individual income tax rate and phase in a new deduction for people who report business income on personal tax returns. The tax cuts would begin in 2017, but only if state revenues keep rising.

Nixon says the tax cuts would "drastically slash the income of our state" and harm education funding.

RENEWAL OF DRUG BENEFIT ENDORSED BY MISSOURI SENATE

The Missouri Senate has endorsed legislation to renew an expiring prescription drug benefit for over 200,000 low-income and disabled seniors.

The Missouri Rx Program is scheduled to expire in August, but the measure endorsed on Wednesday would extend the benefit until 2017.

State officials estimate more than 9 million prescription drug claims will be filed for 230,000 Missourians during the current budget year. Governor Jay Nixon has called on lawmakers to renew the program.

The bill would also allow doctors to write epinephrine prescriptions to some locations, including restaurants and amusement parks. Those places could then keep an emergency supply of the drug that treats severe allergic reactions.

It needs one more vote before moving to the House.

April 16, 2014

KELSO MAN ARRESTED ON STATUTORY RAPE AND CHILD MOLESTATION CHARGE

A Kelso man is in custody on sexual related charges.

According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, 22 year old Justin A. Williams was arrested on Monday on charges of statutory rape and child molestation.

Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter says that his office received a call Monday afternoon reporting that Williams was molesting a young female at a residence in Kelso. Williams left the residence before officers could arrive; however he was found and taken into custody a short time later.

When questioned by a detective, Williams reportedly confessed to acts of unlawful behavior with a 6 year old female. His bond was set at $50,000.

WARRANT ISSUED FOR ARREST OF PARAGOULD DOCTOR ON VIDEO VOYEURISM CHARGES

A warrant has been issued for the arrest of a Paragould OB/GYN who is accused of taking nude photos of a patient during a medical exam without her knowledge, consent or approval.

According to Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington, the warrant was issued for 68 year old Dr. Paul Becton Jr. on five counts of video voyeurism. Authorities reportedly found numerous pictures of nude women on a cell phone that was taken from Becton during a search.

The warrant says that the pictures appeared to have been taken in a medical office during examinations. The search was prompted after a woman told police that she became suspicious after an examination that she may have been photographed.

BUSINESSES PLEDGES $50,000 TOWARDS THREE RIVERS ACTIVITY CENTER

A $50,000 pledge has been finalized to go to the Three Rivers Activity Center project.

Leaders from the Three Rivers Endowment Trust and First Missouri State Bank recently met to finalize the five-year pledge for the activity center, which will be a state-of-the-art athletics center for the Three Rivers Raider and Lady Raider basketball teams.

FIVE INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY, IN REYNOLDS COUNTY WRECK

One person has serious injuries and four others were also injured in a two vehicle wreck Tuesday in Reynolds County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on Missouri Highway 21 in Centerville when a vehicle driven by 72 year old Wanda Atkins, of Centerville, allegedly crossed into the oncoming lane and hit another vehicle.

Atkins suffered moderate injuries, while a passenger in her vehicle, 81 year old Kenneth Atkins, was seriously injured. Three people in the other vehicle suffered minor injuries.

CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO ILLINOIS SHOOTING

A Cape Girardeau man is facing charges in connection to a shooting incident in Illinois.

According to the Carbondale, Illinois Police Department, 26 year old Darrion D. Jake has been charged with aggravated battery with a firearm, aggravated discharge of a firearm, and mob action.

The arrest is in connection to an incident last week where a victim was shot in the abdomen. The incident is still under investigation.

10 YEAR OLD WORLD SERIES TO BE PLAYED IN JONESBORO IN 2015

The Cal Ripken 10-year-old World Series and Jonesboro city officials have finalized plans for Jonesboro to host the 2015 series.

Babe Ruth League Commissioner Robert Faherty Jr. and Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken North Arkansas District Commissioner Gary Hoyt signed a contract Monday to bring nine regional winning teams and an all-star team from Jonesboro to play in the World Series at Joe Mack Campbell Park in August 2015.

Jonesboro's Advertising and Promotion Commission provided the tournament guarantee fee of $45,000 that is to be used for costs associated with the World Series such as travel and lodging expenses for each team.

The World Series will bring about 130 players and their families to Jonesboro - potentially thousands of people that city officials say will provide a boost to the city's economy.

SUPREME COURT RULING GIVES GREATER LEGAL PROTECTIONS TO INJURED WORKERS

The Missouri Supreme Court has overturned 30 years of precedent with a ruling that gives greater legal protections to injured workers who are fired from their jobs.

In a 5 to 2 decision, the Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that employees no longer have to prove that workers' compensation claims were the exclusive factor for their dismissal in order to win lawsuits claiming retaliation.

Instead, the court said employees must show only that workers' compensation claims were a contributing factor in their subsequent dismissal from their job.

State law does not explicitly set forth a standard of proof in such lawsuits, but the exclusive cause standard had been adopted by the state Supreme Court in 1984. Since then, all of the judges on the Supreme Court have changed.

NUMBER OF JOBS AND UNEMPLOYMENT RATE BOTH GO UP IN MISSOURI

Missouri's unemployment rate increased in March, though the size of payrolls also grew.

The Department of Economic Development reported Tuesday that the jobless rate grew to 6.7 percent from 6.4 percent last month. Employers added a net of 3,500 jobs in March.

Top gainers were the construction and education and health services. Construction jobs grew by 2,000 and education and health services grew by 1,600. On the other hand, the leisure and hospitality sector declined by 1,900 jobs.

Missouri's civilian labor force of about 3 million people grew by 8,450 during March. The labor force counts people with jobs and those who are on unemployment but looking for work.

April 14, 2014

THREE REPORTED DEAD IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Three men are dead following a single vehicle wreck Saturday in Pemiscot County.

According to the Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on Highway B at Homestown when a vehicle driven by 30 year old David M. Six, of Bragg City, ran off the side of the road, struck a culvert, and overturned.

Six, along with passengers 29 year old Jason L. Phillips, of Caruthersville, and 57 year old David M. Six, of Portageville were ejected from the vehicle. Two of the men were pronounced dead at the scene, while the third was pronounced dead at an area hospital.

AREA BUSINESS PLEDGES $100,000 TO THREE RIVERS ENDOWMENT TRUST

Leaders from the Three Rivers Endowment trust and Southern Bank recently met to finalize a five year, $100,000 pledge.

Officials from Three Rivers College say that half of the pledge will go to the Humanities and Social Science Classroom Building that is currently under construction at the Poplar Bluff TRC campus.

The other half will go to the area of greatest need.

FIRE LEADS TO HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

A homicide investigation is under way after one man was found dead last week.

According to authorities, 60 year old Roy Jerrolds was found dead in a Pemiscot County home that was on fire. He had reportedly been shot.

An autopsy was performed on Friday.

MAN ARRESTED IN CARTER COUNTY ON METH CHARGE

A Birch Tree man is facing drug related charges after his arrest Saturday afternoon in Carter County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 45 year old Sean M. Felt was arrested at around 4 pm Saturday on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

ONE ARRESTED ON METH AND RESISTING ARREST CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY

Authorities arrested a Poplar Bluff man over the weekend on multiple felony charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 31 year old Edward A. Goodwin is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and resisting arrest.

Goodwin is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and driving while suspended.

THREAT FOUND IN TWIN RIVERS HIGH SCHOOL BATHROOM

Officials at Twin Rivers High School reportedly found a threat in a school bathroom last week.

According to the Daily American Republic, the threat to “shoot everybody on 4-11” was discovered Thursday on a bathroom stall.

A student confessed to writing the threat and was suspended. A school official said the student was upset and remorseful.

TOMORROW IS TAX DEADLINE DAY

April 15^th is the deadline to file state tax returns and the Missouri Department of Revenue has released a few tips for those who have waited to the last minute.

The Department of Revenue advises everyone to file electronically if possible. If you are not going to be able to meet the April 15^th deadline, you might be able to file for an extension.

Anyone who receives an extension to file their federal income tax returns will automatically be granted an extension to file the Missouri income tax return. However filing an extension does not extend the time to pay taxes that are due.

If you have any questions, call 573-751-3505 from 8 am to 5 pm.

ADDITIONAL PENALTIES FOR CHILD CRIMES INCLUDED IN CRIMINAL CODE BILL

Legislation to reorganize Missouri's criminal laws also would give longer prison stints to people who sexually abuse or abandon children.

Under the bill, incest would carry additional jail time in child sex crimes. Parents who leave their children without proper care could also spend a decade more in jail if a child dies or is seriously injured.

The main focus of the legislation is the creation of additional classes of felonies and misdemeanors. But a child advocate says the increased punishments for crimes against children will have an impact on their lives.

The House and Senate passed the criminal code overhaul this week and must work out differences to pass an identical bill by May 16, when the session adjourns.

MULTIPLE VOTING PROPOSALS COULD BE PUT BEFORE MISSOURI VOTERS

Missouri lawmakers are advancing an early voting measure that could overlap with an initiative petition tackling the issue.

The competing proposals set up a scenario in which Missouri voters could endorse two early voting periods but see only one become law. Missouri law states that if conflicting constitutional amendments are approved at the same time, the measure that gets the largest affirmative vote takes effect.

The initiative petition would allow early voting for six weeks and require officials to accommodate early voting on Saturday and Sunday for the final 21 days before federal or state elections. The proposal in the Legislature calls for nine days of early voting and depends upon lawmakers approving funding.

TAX CUTS APPROVED BY SENATE AND HOUSE COMMITTEES

Missouri's Republican lawmakers are advancing a pair of tax cut proposals for potential debate in the coming weeks.

A House committee on Thursday endorsed legislation already passed by the Senate that would cut income tax rates for individuals and some business owners. That proposal is projected by legislative researchers to reduce state revenues by $620 million annually when fully phased in.

Also Thursday, a Senate committee changed and endorsed a tax cut bill that previously passed the House. As revised, that plan would cut income taxes only for businesses, not individuals. Its cost is estimated at about half the amount as the other bill.

Committee approval of the bills means they could soon be considered by the full House and Senate.

APRIL 11, 2014

SEARCH ENDED FOR MISSING MEN A search for two men who have been missing since a barge overturned earlier this week has been called off.

Officials announced Thursday that the search has been suspended. Juan Nieves and Nicolas Perez have been missing since Tuesday after falling into the Mississippi River near Blytheville.

  35TH ANNUAL MERCHANT SHOWCASE SCHEDULED FOR APRIL 26TH The 35th annual Merchant Showcase will be held on April 26th at Three Rivers College.

The Merchant Showcase gives local businesses and vendors an opportunity to showcase their services to the public. Participating businesses will have booths set up in the Bess Gym for giveaways, demonstrations, contests, and more.

There will also be the opportunity for visitors to win one of four cash giveaways. The Merchant Showcase will be held from 10 am to 3 pm on April 26th. Admission is $1.

  TEACHER CITED WITH MISDEMEANOR SECOND DEGREE ASSAULT IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS A Jonesboro teacher has been cited with misdemeanor second degree assault after allegedly dragging a 9 year old student to class by the ankles.

According to KAIT, 59 year old Linda Stephens has been placed on administrative leave following the incident on March 31st at the Microsociety Magnet School.

According to the report, the special needs student had been refusing to go to class and had fallen in the school’s hall. Stephens then allegedly grabbed the student’s legs and pulled him to the classroom.

  GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BE HELD TO RAISE MONEY FOR THE POPLAR BLUFF PUBLIC SCHOOL FOUNDATION The Poplar Bluff Public School Foundation is sponsoring the annual Four Person Scramble Golf Classic in early May.

The tournament will be held Friday, May 2nd at the Ozark Ridge Golf Course. Proceeds from the tournament will go toward the foundation scholarship fund and other educational opportunities.

Teams and hole sponsors are needed, according to Poplar Bluff school superintendent Chris Hon. Lunch and evening meals will also be provided.

The tournament will be limited to the first 20 teams to enter. For more information, call the Poplar Bluff Superintendent office at 785-7751.

  POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON METH AND MARIJUANA CHARGE A Poplar Bluff man is facing drug charges following his arrest Wednesday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 47 year old Craig E. Lee was arrested shortly after 10 pm Friday in Butler County on charges of possession of less than 35 grams of marijuana, felony possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

  MACHINERY TAKEN FROM JONESBORO BUSINESS Jonesboro police are looking for more information on a piece of machinery that was reportedly stolen from an area business.

According to authorities, a 2006 Caterpillar skid steer was taken from CWC Mechanical. A portion of a chain link fence was knocked down as the machinery was taken.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call 870-935-5657.

  BILL WOULD LIMIT DISCIPLINE FOR TOY GUNS Missouri students could use food, pencils or their hands to imitate a gun without penalty under legislation endorsed by the state House.

The bill advanced Wednesday would shield students from discipline of fines for "simulating a weapon while playing."

Sponsoring Republican Representative Mike Kelley, of Lamar, says he was motivated by the Maryland case of a Baltimore second-grader suspended last year for chewing a Pop-Tart into the shape of a gun.

Opponents say the legislation could allow some students to encourage violence among their peers.

The measure would allow students to be disciplined for causing bodily harm, disrupting a learning environment or creating a serious threat. It needs one more vote before moving to the Senate.

  EXPANSION OF SELF DEFENSE LAW APPROVED BY MISSOURI HOUSE The Missouri House has approved legislation expanding a self-defense law against home intruders.

A so-called "castle doctrine" law approved in 2007 gives Missourians a right to defend themselves and their property. The law says that people can use deadly force to stop an intruder in a home or vehicle. There is no duty to retreat if someone enters illegally.

The measure passed by the House with a 110 to 39 vote on Thursday would extend that right to people on a property with the owner's consent. Current law applies only to the owner or tenant of a location.

The legislation now heads to the Senate.

  GOVERNOR NIXON WITHHOLDING FUNDS FROM EDUCATION BUDGET Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon is withholding funds from the current fiscal year's education budget because he says lawmakers didn't approve enough money in their mid-year spending plan.

Nixon requested $44 million in January to make up for declining revenue in gambling and lottery money. But in the legislation passed this week, lawmakers only approved half that amount, saying they didn't know if all the money would be necessary.

As a result, Nixon said Thursday he is restricting $6.4 million in spending divided equally between community colleges and four-year universities, plus $15.6 million for K-12 schools. He is also calling on lawmakers to put additional money in next year's budget to make up for the shortfall.

The current fiscal year started last July and ends on June 30.

APRIL 10, 2014

17 ARRESTED DURING SIKESTON WARRANT ROUND UPSeventeen people were taken into custody Wednesday morning during a warrant round up.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, around 32 persons were recently indicted for mostly drug offenses and a few for property crimes and crimes against people.

During the operation yesterday morning, several teams of officers began seeking those wanted subjects; and by 10 am, 17 had been arrested.

Travis D. Williams (32 of Sikeston) - 3 COUNTS SALE CONT SUB - $50,000.00 CASH

Tyrone White (50 of Sikeston) - 2 COUNTS SALE CONT SUB PUBLIC HOUSING - $15,000.00 C/S

Angela Eckles (45 of Sikeston) - 3 COUNTS SALE NEAR SCHOOL- $35,000.00 C/S

Eric Coffer (28 of Sikeston) -SALE OF CONT SUB- $50,000.00

Katlyn Carr (18 of Sikeston) -SALE OF CONT SUB $15,000.00

Joseph Cannon (34 of Sikeston) -SALE OF CONT SUB - $50,000.00

Lacy Brown (33 of Sikeston) -SALE OF CONT SUB $5,000.00

Donald Milloway (49 of Sikeston) - BURGLARY/STEALING $15,000.00 C/S

Chelsie Trapp (25 of Sikeston) -2 COUNTS SALE CONT SUB $15,000.00 C/S

Morgan Stone (19 or Sikeston) -POSS CONT SUB/POSS DRUG PARAPHERNALIA $10,000.00 C/S

Roderick Randell (30 of Sikeston) - 3 COUNTS SALE CONT SUB $25,000.00 C/S

Isaac Patterson (36 of Sikeston) -2 COUNTS SALE CONT SUB $50,000.00 C/S

Willie Murphy (47 of Sikeston) - SALE CONT SUB NEAR SCHOOL $35,000.00 C/S

Tracey D. Moore (45 of Sikeston) - POSS WITH INTENT $15,000.00 C/S

Dario Lewis (22 of Sikeston) - SALE CONT SUB $50,000.00 C/S

Julius Jackson (33 of Sikeston) -2 COUNTS SALE CONT SUB $35,000.00 C/S

Darren Beasley (36 of Sikeston) -SALE CONT SUB $50,000.00 C/S AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR MAN MISSING SINCE SUNDAY Authorities are searching for a man in Madison County who is missing.

According to KFVS, 46 year old Kent Franklin has been missing since Sunday. Franklin is a white male, five foot, 11 inches tall, with brown hair and hazel eyes. He weighs 186 pounds. Authorities say that foul play is not suspected.

Anyone with information on Franklin’s whereabouts is asked to call 573-783-2234. EXECUTION DATE SET FOR MAN CONVICTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY MURDER The Missouri Supreme Court on Wednesday set a May execution date for convicted killer Russell Bucklew, continuing a trend of scheduling one execution per month.

Bucklew is set to die by injection at 12:01 a.m. May 21 for killing a man in Cape Girardeau County in 1996.

Bucklew's attorney, John William Simon, says he will continue efforts in the courts to halt the execution, and will seek clemency from Governor Jay Nixon.

Bucklew was convicted in the fatal shooting of Michael Sanders, a romantic rival, then abducting and raping a woman.

Missouri has executed five men since November - one each month through March. William Rousan is scheduled to be put to death April 23rd for killing a St. Francois County couple in 1993. CAREER EXPO TO BE HELD TODAY IN MALDEN A career expo will be held today in Malden by Three Rivers College.

Representatives from local employers will be on hand to talk about the opportunities available to area residents.

The expo will also offer area residents the opportunity to talk with representatives of Three Rivers’ career education programs about the benefits and career opportunities offered at Three Rivers.

The career expo will be held at the Malden Community Center from 4 to 6:30 pm. For more information, call 573-276-3529. HIGHWAY PATROL TO STEP UP DRUNK DRIVING ENFORCEMENT FOR PROM AND GRADUATION SEASON With many area schools celebrating prom and graduation over the next month and a half, the Missouri State Highway Patrol will be stepping up enforcement to stop underage drinking.

From May 1st through May 12th, Troop E officers will be joining other Missouri law enforcement agencies for a youth alcohol mobilization. During this period, officers will be stepping up enforcement efforts with a goal of removing impaired drivers from Missouri highways.

As prom and graduation season is ongoing, Missouri law enforcement want to make sure that the state’s youth are celebrating safe and sober. SENATE PANEL HEARS TESTIMONY ON DISCRIMINATION PROTECTIONS BASED ON SEXUAL ORIENTATION Missouri lawmakers are hearing the pros and cons of whether it makes good business sense to grant discrimination protections based on sexual orientation.

A Senate committee heard public testimony Wednesday on legislation adding "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" to a list of outlawed reasons for discrimination that already includes such characteristics as race, religion and disabilities.

Supporters included lobbyists for Monsanto and several Democratic officeholders, who said such policies can help businesses attract the best-qualified employees.

Opponents included lobbyists for two of Missouri's leading business associations, as well as Catholic and Baptist organizations. They said the legislation could subject businesses to a new flurry of lawsuits that may lack merit. DENTAL COVERAGE MAY BE RESTORED FOR MISSOURI MEDICAID RECIPIENTS Missouri lawmakers appear likely to restore dental coverage for hundreds of thousands of adult Medicaid recipients, nearly a decade after it was eliminated.

The Senate Appropriations Committee agreed Wednesday to include an additional $48 million of federal and state money in next year's Medicaid budget for dental care. The House previously approved the same amount, although there are differences between the two chambers on exactly how that would be spent.

Missouri lawmakers eliminated dental coverage for adult Medicaid recipients under a 2005 law that also made other cuts to the program.

More than 300,000 adult Medicaid recipients could benefit from the proposed restoration of dental care.

Children already receive dental coverage under Missouri's Medicaid program.

Some of the money in the Senate plan would increase Medicaid rates paid to dentists. PIPE REPLACEMENT TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Highway 162 in New Madrid County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a pipe under roadway.

The work zone will be located located between Highway 153 and County Road 280.

Work is scheduled to be performed today from 8 am to 2 pm.

APRIL 9, 2014

POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL TO HAVE THREE NEW MEMBERSThere will be three new members of the Poplar Bluff City Council.

According to the Butler County Clerk’s website, both Jack Rushin and David Johnson were elected to the two at large seats in the Poplar Bluff City Council over Ron Black and incumbent Susan McVey. The other at large seat had been occupied by Loyd Matthews, who passed away in January.

For the Ward 5 seat, Peter Tinsley defeated incumbent Robert Louis Smith by 27 votes.

In other contested city races in Butler County, Glen Sedrick was elected Qulin mayor and Cheryl Johnson-Carter was elected as Alderman for Ward 1 in Qulin. POPLAR BLUFF TAX LEVY PASSES A new Poplar Bluff tax levy increase of 80 cents was passed yesterday during the General Municipal Election.

The levy will facilitate improvements to the Poplar Bluff School District which will also include transferring the High School to the current site of the 5th and 6th grade center, while 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students will move to the existing High School site.

The vote total was 2,850 yes votes and 2,226 no votes.

A Neelyville school proposition for construction, renovating, remodeling, and improvement of school facilities at both the Hillview and Neelyville campuses did not receive the necessary 57 percent of yes votes it needed to pass, only amassing 51 percent of the vote. TWO NEW MEMBERS ELECTED TO THREE RIVERS COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Two new members will soon be joining the Three Rivers College Board of Trustees.

Chris Williams and Eric Schalk were elected to the board yesterday, with each receiving over 3,100 votes. Wilbur Thornton, who has served on the board since 2008, came in third on the ballot with just over 2,300 votes. BUTLER COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD RACES Three People have been elected to the Poplar Bluff School Board.

According to the Butler County Clerk’s office, Steve Sells, and Alana Robertson were reelected to the Board of Education, joining newcomer John Scott, who had the highest vote total.

Robert Thurman, Billy Watson, and Roger Baxter, were chosen for the Twin Rivers Board of Education.

For the Neelyville Board of Education, voters in Butler County chose Robert Dean Fisher, Paul Petty, and Shane Eaker. TWO MISSING AFTER BARGE CAPSIZES NEAR BLYTHEVILLE Authorities say a barge capsized on the Mississippi River in northeast Arkansas and that two people who fell into the water are missing.

The barge overturned Tuesday at a shipping terminal near Blytheville.

Richard Wheatley, a spokesman for the Houston-based company that owns the terminal, Kinder Morgan, says the barge was being unloaded when it capsized.

The Coast Guard is searching the river for two people who fell into the water. The missing people's names weren't released.

Coast Guard Lieutenant Brandon McMillan says the barge was carrying steel coils, and that he doesn't know if anything that fell into the river poses an environmental concern. RESUME PREPARATION CLASS TO BE HELD AT POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY Job seekers wanting to make sure that they stand out for employers should attend a resume preparation class this Thursday.

The class will be held from 1 to 3 pm Thursday at the Poplar Bluff Public Library. The class is free and open to the public, but space is limited, so registration is recommended.

To register, fill out the online registration form at poplarbluff.org or call 573-686-8639. ILLINOIS MAN ARRESTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES An Illinois man is facing multiple marijuana related charges following his arrest Tuesday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Jarmez L. Smith, of Cairo, Illinois, was arrested shortly before 8 pm in Cape Girardeau County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute – marijuana.

Smith is also charged with possession of a controlled substance – marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. BILL WOULD KEEP COMMON CORE IN PLACE IN MISSOURI UNTIL AT LEAST 2016 Missouri's Republican-led House has backed off its opposition to new education standards and endorsed legislation to keep them in place while a commission studies their effectiveness.

State education officials voted to adopt the Common Core State Standards in 2010. Since then, opponents have charged that the standards take away control of curriculum from local school districts.

But House opponents acknowledged Tuesday that schools have already spent money to implement the standards for assessments tests scheduled for this fall. They agreed to allow them to remain in place until a group makes a recommendation for the 2016-17 academic year.

The group would be charged with developing standards for English, language arts, math, history and government.

The bill needs one more vote before moving to the Senate. MISSOURI VOTERS COULD BE ASKED TO DECIDE ON ONE CENT SALES TAX FOR TRANSPORTATION FUNDING Missouri voters would be asked to approve a one-cent sales tax for transportation funding under legislation endorsed by the state House.

The proposed constitutional amendment approved on Tuesday would appear on the November ballot if passed by the Legislature. It needs another affirmative vote in the House before moving to the Senate.

State transportation officials estimate the tax to generate about $800 million annually. It would need to be reauthorized by voters after 10 years to remain in effect. Ten percent of the funds raised would go toward local transportation projects.

Supporters say the penny tax is necessary for the state to maintain roads and bridges, and to finance new infrastructure projects. Opponents say the sales tax hike would disproportionately hurt low-income Missourians who may not frequently use roads. PIPE REPLACEMENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Highway 153 in New Madrid County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a pipe under the roadway.

The work zone will be located between Route B and County Road 240.

Work is scheduled to take place today from 8 am to 3 pm.

APRIL 8, 2014

ELECTION DAY IN MISSOURI Multiple school board seats plus races for the Poplar Bluff City Council are up to voters today during the General Municipal Election.

Voters will decide who will serve on the board of education for Poplar Bluff, Twin Rivers, and Neelyville along with the Board of Trustees for Three Rivers College.

There are multiple city elections today as well as the tax levy issue for the Poplar Bluff School District. REGISTRATION OPEN FOR FALL SEMESTER AT THREE RIVERS COLLEGE Registration has begun for the 2014 fall semester at Three Rivers College.

Those interested in enrolling can browse available courses by clicking “Search for Classes” at trcc.edu. Current students can register online through the myTRCC system, however both current and new students must meet with an advisor prior to registering.

Students can register for classes in the fall through August 15th. The fall semester will begin on August 18th. Students can also register for Maymester, Summer, and Augmester classes. STATE REPRESENTATIVE FROM EAST PRAIRIE CHARGED WITH DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED A Missouri House member is facing two charges of driving while intoxicated stemming from arrests in the capital city.

Democratic Representative Steve Hodges, of East Prairie, was charged Friday for two separate events, one that occurred last week.

A probable cause statement released by the Cole County prosecutor says Hodges was arrested early Wednesday in Jefferson City. Police said he was taken to the county jail and given breath test that showed a .17 blood alcohol level. He was later released.

Hodges was also charged last week for a February arrest in Jefferson City. SIKESTON MAN FACING CHARGES IN CONNECTION TO ALLEGED THEFT A Sikeston man is in custody in connection to an alleged theft of multiple items from vehicles over the weekend.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 18 year old Chadwick Hopgood was arrested on charges of felony stealing of a firearm and misdemeanor stealing.

Hopgood allegedly stole a firearm, a checkbook, money, and other items from vehicles early Sunday morning. Hopgood reportedly confessed to a deputy during an interview. MOTORCYCLE SKILLS TEST TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED AT POPLAR BLUFF DRIVER EXAMINATION STATION Anyone looking to take the motorcycle skills test in Poplar Bluff is in for a small delay.

According to Captain George E. Ridens with the Highway Patrol, the motorcycle skills portion of the testing process has been temporarily suspended at the Poplar Bluff Driver Examination Station due to another event at the site.

The test will not be available through April 20th. Written examinations along with Class E and Class F skills tests will be offered as normally scheduled. MAN CONVICTED FOR HIS INVOLVEMENT IN ROBBERY OF CAPE GIRARDEAU BUSINESS A Memphis man has been convicted on multiple charges for his role in the 2009 robbery of Jayson Jewelers in Cape Girardeau.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 30 year old Daryl House planned the robbery with three other people and also brought a handgun to be used to commit the robbery. During the robbery, he, and two others, allegedly took jewelry and cash from the store.

House is facing a maximum sentence of life imprisonment on two counts at his sentencing on June 30th. MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR TOMORROW IN DEXTER Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will stop by Dexter tomorrow for a Mobile Office.

The Mobile Office Program gives Missourians the opportunity to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

The Mobile Office will be held Wednesday, April 9th, from 11 am to noon at the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission in Dexter. COLLEGE FUNDING INCREASE APPROVED BY SENATE COMMITTEE Missouri's public universities and community colleges could get a 5 percent funding increase under a budget plan embraced by a Senate committee.

The plan approved Monday by the Senate Appropriations Committee would provide a more than $43 million funding increase to higher education institutions.

Goveror Jay Nixon had proposed increases of 5 percent for universities and 4 percent increase for community colleges.

The House had approved a 3 percent increase for higher education institutions. Part of that would have been dependent on state revenues exceeding legislative projections and instead meeting Nixon's more optimistic forecast.

All of the proposals would distribute the increased funding based on whether institutions meet performance criteria.

The House and Senate must settle their budget differences by early May. MISSOURI SENATE APPROVES LIST OF OVER 300 ITEMS TO BE FUNDED THROUGH A BOND PROPOSAL Missouri senators have approved a to-do list of more than 300 items that could be funded through a bonding proposal.

The projects are detailed in a resolution passed Monday by a 26 to 4 vote. The bonding is authorized under a separate bill passed last week by the Senate.

Both measures now go to the House for consideration.

The plan would allot $200 million for a new mental health hospital in Fulton. An additional $400 million of bonds would be split among state facilities and public colleges and universities.

The bonds generally would fund maintenance and repairs that were put off when state revenues dipped during the recession.

State Office of Administration Commissioner Doug Nelson said Monday that some of the maintenance projects now are occurring, even without the bond funds. BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN CARTER COUNTY Westbound Highway 60 in Carter County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform routine bridge maintenance.

Crews will be performing maintenance on the bridge over Current River.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday from 7 am to 5 pm daily. DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD CLOSED FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be closing a Dunklin County road to replace a pipe.

Route H in Dunklin County will be closed today, weather permitting, from 8 am to 3 pm. The work zone will be located from Route J to County Road 108.

APRIL 7, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 040714  

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN SCOTT COUNTY

One man has died following a single vehicle wreck Saturday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when a vehicle driven by 47 year old Stanley J. Templeton, of Bertrand, ran off the side of Interstate 55 in Scott County and struck a tree.

Templeton was pronounced dead at the scene.

MAN REPORTEDLY SHOOTS HIMSELF FOLLOWING HIGH SPEED CHASE

A man reportedly shot himself following a high speed chase with officers Friday evening.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, the man led police on a chase on Interstate 55 that reached speeds of 80 to 90 miles per hour.

The suspect exited at Portageville and pulled into a vacant lot just west of the exit. As officers approached the vehicle, the man fired a single round into his head and died immediately.

The man was identified as 43 year old Thomas Louis Seminazzi, of Maryland. A woman who was also in the vehicle was not injured.

MAN ACCUSED OF HAVING SEX WITH UNDERAGE GIRL

A 35 year old Jonesboro, Arkansas man is facing charges after a 12 year old girl told authorities that they had had sex.

According to KAIT, 35 year old John Richardson allegedly admitted to officers to having sex with the child. Richardson is a registered sex offender who had previously spent four months in prison in connection to an incident involving a five year old child.

Richardson was arrested on child pornography and rape charges.

TWO ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY

Two people are facing multiple felony charges following their arrests Friday morning in Mississippi County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 28 year old Jeremiah P. Ellis, of Chicago, Illinois, and 24 year old Ashley L. Patterson, of East Chicago, Indiana, were arrested Friday on felony charges of unlawful use of a weapon, resisting arrest by fleeing, tampering with physical evidence, three counts of first degree assault on a law enforcement officer, three counts of first degree armed criminal action, and two counts of first degree endangering the welfare of a child.

The pair also reportedly each had an FBI warrant for bank robbery.

PUXICO MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES

A Puxico man is facing drug charges after being arrested Friday afternoon in Stoddard County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 65 year old Richard A. Benfield is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; possession of drug paraphernalia; and possession of a controlled substance inside a correctional facility.

Benfield is also facing charges of careless and imprudent driving resulting in an accident, leaving the scene of an accident, and possession of marijuana.

HARVIELL MAN FACING POSSESSION OF METH CHARGE

A Harviell man is facing a felony meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 42 year old Kevin W. Bryant was arrested Saturday night in Butler County on a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Bryant is also facing a charge of driving while intoxicated, drugs.

INMATE FOUND DEAD AT SOUTHEAST CORRECTIONAL CENTER

State prison officials say a 73 year old inmate has died at the Southeast Correctional Center.

The Missouri Department of Corrections on Friday announced the death of Nelson DeCloud. He was serving a 220 year sentence for kidnapping, felonious restraint, rape and forcible sodomy from Clay County and had been imprisoned for 20 years.

An agency news release says the corrections department does not suspect foul play in DeCloud's death.

MOBILE OFFICE TO BE HELD THIS WEEK IN EAST PRAIRIE

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in East Prairie this week to meet with constituents.

The meeting is a part of the Senator’s Mobile Office Program, which gives Missourians the opportunity to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

The Mobile Office will be held Wednesday, April 9th, from 3:30 to 4:30 pm at the East Prairie City Hall.

DRAINAGE REPAIRS TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Butler County today for drainage repairs on Highway 53.

The work zone will be located at First Street. Weather permitting, work is scheduled to be done today from 7:30 am to 1 pm.

PIPE REPLACEMENT TO FORCE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD

A Dunklin County road will be closed today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can replace a pipe beneath the roadway.

Route B in Dunklin County will be closed today from 8 am to 3 pm between County Roads 314 and 326 for the replacement.

BRIDGE INSPECTION TO BE HELD TODAY ON INTERSTATE 55

North and Southbound I-55 in Scott County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform a routine bridge inspection.

The bridge to be inspected is over Ramsey Creek at Scott City.

Weather permitting, work will performed today from 10:30 am to 3 pm on the northbound lanes and then tomorrow from 9 am to 3 pm on southbound lanes.

MEDICAID EXPANSION PROPOSED THAT WOULD EXPAND COVERAGE TO SOME ELDERLY AND DISABLED RESIDENTS

Some Missouri Republicans have adamantly opposed expanding Medicaid to low-income adults by tapping into billions of federal dollars under President Barack Obama's health care law.

Yet support has been quietly growing among some of those same Republicans for a mini Medicaid expansion.

Some Republicans are teaming up with Democrats to back a proposal that would double the amount of assets people could have without being disqualified for Medicaid coverage. The change is projected to expand Medicaid coverage to nearly 8,200 elderly and disabled residents at an eventual annual cost of around $160 million in combined federal and state funds.

Missouri's asset limits haven't changed since 1968. Individuals are capped at $1,000 of assets and married couples at $2,000.

A Senate committee has endorsed two bills to raise the asset limits.

APRIL 4, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 040414  

TORNADOS REPORTED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI LAST NIGHT

Last night’s severe weather brought tornados to Southeast Missouri.

According to the National Weather Service, a tornado was reported at 8:07 pm northeast of Doniphan. A tornado was also reported at 8:11 pm northeast of Fairdealing in Butler County.

At 9:14 pm two funnel clouds were reported by spotters west northwest of Bloomfield in Stoddard County.

Funnel clouds were also reported at 9:44 pm near Doniphan and at 10:05 pm near Poplar Bluff.

Hail was also reported at various places across Southeast Missouri.

WOMAN FACING NEGLIGANT HOMICIDE CHARGE IN CONNECTION TO FATAL WRECK

A Northeast Arkansas woman is facing a charge of negligent homicide.

33 year old Andrea Spradling, of Pocahontas, was arrested in connection to a wreck Monday that resulted in the death of Carmen Stayton, of Walnut Ridge.

Spradling had allegedly been drinking the night of the wreck. According to the Arkansas State Police, Spradling failed to stop at an intersection in Walnut Ridge and hit Stayton’s vehicle.

ARMED ROBBERY REPORTED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Authorities in Pemiscot County are investigation a report of an armed robbery.

According to KFVS, the incident occurred Tuesday at a residence south of Hayti. A black male reportedly entered the home with a gun and took a purse from a victim.

Anyone who has information about the incident is asked to call the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Department at 573-333-4104.

POLICE CHASE LEADS TO ONE ARREST, SEARCH FOR SECOND SUSPECT

A police chase has led to the arrest of one man and a search for a second.

Authorities say the chase began in Miner when officers attempted to pull a vehicle over for multiple traffic violations.

An officer with the Miner Police Department says the driver refused to stop and led police on a chase from Miner to Sikeston, where Sikeston Department of Public Safety officers used spike strips to stop the vehicle.  Two males ran from the scene.

Officers apprehended Meshaw Daniel, of Sikeston. Authorities are still looking for the driver of the vehicle, who was able to elude police.

Daniel was taken into custody for a warrant out of Mississippi County on a charge of distribution of a controlled substance.

THREE ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON METH CHARGE

Three people are facing drug related charges following their arrest in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 58 year old Robert D. Colborn, of Cabool, along with 38 year old Barry F. Hatton and 30 year old Patricia A. Mcintosh, of Wynona, were arrested Wednesday evening on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

POPLAR BLUFF RECIEVES HISTORIC PRESERVATION GRANT

The city of Poplar Bluff has been awarded a grant from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

The $13,200 grant comes through the federal Historic Preservation Fund and will be used to prepare the nomination of the Kinzer and Cynthia Streets Historic District for the National Register of Historic Places.

CHANGES PLANED FOR TODAY AT AREA INTERSECTION

The Missouri Department of Transportation has announced a minor change to the way traffic is handled at an area intersection.

Currently, the intersection of Route 160 and Old Route 67 gives Route 67 traffic the right of way and the traffic on Route 160 has the burden of a STOP condition.

According to MoDOT Area Engineer, David Wyman, beginning today at 1 pm, cars on Route 160 will have the right of way and cars on Old Route 67 will have the STOP condition.

JOBLESS BENEFITS SLASHED UNDER BILL APPROVED BY MISSOURI SENATE

Missouri senators have passed legislation that could lead to a reduction in jobless benefits for people laid off in the future.

The bill would make Missouri one of only a few states to link the duration of unemployment benefits to the state's unemployment rate.

Missouri workers currently can receive unemployment benefits for 20 weeks.

Under the bill, the full 20 weeks of benefits would be available only if the state's unemployment rate is at least 9 percent.

The maximum duration of jobless benefits would be cut by a week for each one-half percentage point reduction in the unemployment rate - bottoming out at 13 weeks of benefits when the unemployment rate is less than 6 percent.

The Senate's 24 to 8 vote Thursday sends the bill to the House.

BILL WOULD ALLOW EMERGENCY WORKERS THE CHANCE TO CAST ABSENTEE BALLOTS IN EMERGENCY SITUATIONS

Legislation under consideration in Missouri could give emergency workers summoned to duty near Election Day a greater chance of casting absentee ballots.

Missouri law limits absentee ballots to people who will be unable to vote in person on Election Day because of such reasons as illnesses, disabilities or expected absences.

But lawmakers say some emergency workers can be called to duty on such short notice that they don't have time to request an absentee ballot.

A bill passed Wednesday by the Senate would allow people responding to federal or state emergencies to cast absentee ballots by email or facsimile machine. The bill now goes to the House.

The legislation would take effect immediately upon the governor's signature, so that it could be in place for the August primary elections.

APRIL 3, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 040314  

ARMED ROBBERY REPORTED IN JONESBORO

Authorities in Jonesboro are investigating an armed robbery that reportedly took place last night.

According to KAIT, the robbery was at a Dollar General on Highland Drive. No information has been released about a possible suspect or if there were any injuries.

THREE INDICTED FOR ALLEGEDLY FILING FRAUDULENT INCOME TAX REFUND CLAIMS

Three Osceola residents are charged in federal court with running a scheme in which they're accused of filing fraudulent claims for $91,000 in income tax refunds.

A 14 count grand jury indictment handed up Wednesday charges 39 year old Christopher Minor, 60 year old Annie Watkins and 50 year old Roosevelt Oliver with filing and conspiring to file false claims for federal income tax refunds.

The indictment alleges that the three used personal information from unemployed individuals and filed fake tax returns in their names and without their consent.

Prosecutors say the group filed 29 false income tax returns. They allegedly accepted refunds by checks or debit cards, and the persons whose names they used didn't get any of the money.

Prosecutors say the scheme operated from January 2010 through February 2011.

RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS AND TORNADOS TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Southeast Missouri is at risk for severe thunderstorms and Tornados today.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, scattered to numerous severe thunderstorms are likely today and tonight. The thunderstorms will bring with them a risk of very heavy rainfall.

The storms will also have a chance of producing large hail, damaging winds, and tornados.

MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Poplar Bluff next week to meet with constituents.

The meeting is a part of the Senator’s Mobile Office Program, which gives Missourians the opportunity to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

The Mobile Office will be held Wednesday, April 9th, from 9 am to 10 am at the Mark Twain National Forest Service Office on Maud Street.

HIGH SCHOOL EQUIVALENCE TEST TO BE HELD IN SIKESTON

A High School Equivalence test has been scheduled for this month in Sikeston.

The HiSET High School Equivalence test, hosted by Three Rivers College, will be administered at the Three Rivers Center in Sikeston on Saturday, April 12^th, from 8 am until 4 pm. The registration period for the test closes on April 8^th.

The HiSET has replaced the GED test and covers writing, essay, math, science, social studies and reading. Those interested in taking the exam should go to hiset.ets.org to register, pay and schedule the test.

MODOT TO HOST FUN RUN/WALK TO KICK OFF NATIONAL WORK ZONE AWARENESS WEEK

The Missouri Department of Transportation will be hosting a fun run/walk this weekend to help kick off National Work Zone Awareness Week.

The event will be held this Saturday, with the race starting at 9:30 am at the Willow Springs High School Football Field.

Registration will begin at 8:30 am and is $10 for adults and $5 for children under 10. Participants may choose to take part in a 1-mile fun run/walk or 5K.

More information is available online at modot.org.

SAFETY OPERATION TO BE HELD THIS MONTH IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has scheduled a Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Project for this month in Southeast Missouri.

The project will see troopers and officers from the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division concentrating their efforts on locating commercial vehicles being operated in an unsafe manner, as well as drivers committing hazardous moving violations.

Enforcement efforts will be focused on high crash corridors and in high risk areas, such as rural roads or highway work zones.

BILL WOULD LET CASINOS EXTEND LINE OF CREDIT TO GAMBLERS

High stakes gamblers could find Missouri more alluring if legislation passed by the Senate becomes law.

A bill approved Wednesday would let Missouri casinos extend a line of credit to gamblers willing to put up at least $10,000.

Supporters said the bill would free big bettors from having to carry large quantities of cash to casinos.

Casino officials also hope to attract more high rollers from other states, like professional athletes who may be traveling to Missouri to play in a game.

The Senate sent the bill to the House by a 24 to 9 vote.

MISSOURI REVENUES UP 1.7 PERCENT OVER LAST YEAR THROUGH MARCH

A new report shows Missouri revenues were up slightly as the state heads toward the last few months of its fiscal year.

State figures released Wednesday show the state's net general revenue increased 1.7 percent through March compared with the same point last year.

State Budget Director Linda Luebbering says the revenue numbers show Missouri is on pace to meet this year's budget projections set by Governor Jay Nixon's administration. But she added that sales tax receipts are currently coming in below projections.

Missouri also borrowed $200 million this month. Luebbering says the state routinely borrows cash this time of year because of increased tax refunds, which are up 4.4 percent from last year.

The state's current budget year began last July and runs through June 30^th.

APRIL 2, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 040214  

JONESBORO MAN FATALLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

A Jonesboro man has died from injuries he sustained in a single vehicle crash Sunday night in Lawrence County, Arkansas.

Authorities say 28 year old DeAngelo D. Scales was taking the exit ramp from Highway 67 onto Highway 63 when he failed to negotiate the curve, running off the road and overturning several times.

Scales was pronounced dead at the scene.

VICTIM IN CRITICAL CONDITION FOLLOWING ARKANSAS SHOOTING

A victim is reportedly in critical condition following a shooting in Northeast Arkansas.

According to KAIT, 27 year old Jessie Crum was shot in the chest in Trumann. Crum was taken to a Memphis hospital for treatment.

Authorities have one person in custody in connection to the shooting. 21 year old Denarius Marquette Chandler is facing charges of attempted murder and unlawful discharge of a firearm from a vehicle.

14 YEAR OLD TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOR THREAT AGAINST CHAFFEE PRINCIPAL

An area teenager is in custody after reportedly threatening to shoot his school principal.

According to the Scott County Signal, a 14 year old boy allegedly confessed to writing the threat under a sink in a Chaffee school bathroom. The Chaffee High School Principal was mentioned in the message, which was discovered on March 20^th.

The boy has been turned over to juvenile authorities.

PIEDMONT MAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE IN JAIL

A Piedmont man is facing meth and marijuana charges out of Wayne County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 51 year old Ricky L. Deckard is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; unlawful use of drug paraphernalia; and possession of any controlled substance in a county jail.

Other charges include possession of 35 grams or less of marijuana.

WOMAN ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON MULTIPLE FELONY DRUG CHARGES

A Bellflower woman is facing multiple felony drug charges following her arrest Tuesday in Wayne County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 41 year old Angela F. Burson, is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and hydrocodone.

Burson is also charged with felony unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

CHARLESTON MAN FACING INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE CHARGES FOR METH AND MARIJUANA

A Charleston man was in custody Tuesday afternoon on multiple drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Marcus D. Teague is charged with felony possession with intent to distribute for marijuana and methamphetamine.

Teague is also facing charges of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and failure to display valid plates.

CAR CRASHES INTO KENNETT WALMART, DRIVER FACING CHARGES

Authorities in Kennett say a woman who drove her vehicle into the local Walmart will be charged in connection to the crash.

Kennett Police Chief Tim Trowbridge says 19 year old Vanessa Johnson, of Arkansas, passed out and drove into the building shortly before 11 pm Monday night.

No series injuries were reported, however several people, including Johnson, were taken to an area hospital.

An investigation of the incident is ongoing.  Authorities say Johnson could be charged with driving while intoxicated.

125 ACRES OF LAND NEAR BLOOMFIELD SET ASIDE FOR DISABLED VETERANS

A 125 acre tract of land in southeast Missouri is set aside as a haven in the wilderness for a very specific group - disabled veterans.

The Dexter Daily Statesman reports that since Tom Love and Alan Hedrick turned over the land near Bloomfield in Stoddard County to an American Legion post nearly two years ago, nearly 100 veterans have utilized the opportunity.

The property is called Gobbler Ridge Farms. It includes a rustic cabin that has been retrofitted with wider doorways, assist rails, wheelchair ramps and other improvements. The land also includes an elevated, heated blind for disabled vets to hunt or photograph wildlife. A picnic area is in the works.

BEST SELLING AUTHOR TO TEACH MANAGEMENT SKILLS AT UPCOMING SEMINAR

The Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce will host number one best-selling author, Glenn Shepard, on April 23^rd from 8:30 to 11:30 am.

Glenn will speak on the topic of “Be the manager other managers envy and bosses can’t wait to reward”. Glenn is a well-known national speaker in the areas of leadership and human resources.

Attendees will learn how to defuse tension, derail toxic behavior, deal with malicious employees and build a solid team.

Chamber members can attend the event for only $129.  For non-members, the cost is $159. To register, call the Poplar Bluff Chamber at 785-7761.

$50,000 DONATED TO THREE RIVERS ACTIVITY CENTER PROJECT

An area business has donated $50,000 dollars toward the Three Rivers Activity Center Project.

Leaders from the Three Rivers Endowment Trust and First Midwest Bank recently met to finalize the five-year, $50,000 pledge.

The Activity Center will be a state-of-the-art athletics center for the Three Rivers Raider and Lady Raider basketball teams.

GUN LAW NULLIFICATION BILL AMENDED IN MISSOURI HOUSE

The Missouri House has endorsed legislation that would nullify some federal gun control laws the state considers to be infringements on gun rights.

But the Republican led chamber voted 112 to 37 on Tuesday to remove a portion of the bill that could have sent law enforcement officers to jail for knowingly enforcing such laws.

Under previous versions of the measure, federal agents could potentially have faced up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine. The House bill would allow people only to sue law enforcement for enforcing certain federal laws.

The measure needs one more vote before moving to the Senate, where senators have passed a similar bill this year. The Senate version includes the possible jail term for federal agents.

SENATE COMMITTEE HEARS TESTIMONY ON MEDICAL MARIJUANA

Mothers of children with seizures have told Missouri lawmakers that legalizing medical marijuana could help their children.

The Senate General Laws Committee heard testimony Tuesday on legislation that would allow marijuana use by patients diagnosed with debilitating medical conditions. The purchase price of such marijuana could be taxed up to 8 percent, and it could not be used near schools or some other public areas.

Among those testifying was Heidi Rayl. Her son, Zayden, has multiple seizures per day and his current medicine is expensive. Rayl said the availability of marijuana could help Zayden's medical condition.

A group representing physicians testified in opposition because medical marijuana has not gone through clinical trials.

The Senate panel did not vote on the measure.

APRIL 1, 2014

RIVER RADIO NEWS 040114  

JONESBORO WOMAN KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

A Jonesboro woman is dead following a two vehicle wreck Monday morning in Greene County.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the vehicle of 30 year old Andrea Denise Jefferson allegedly crossed into the path of another vehicle on US Highway 49.

Jefferson was pronounced dead after the wreck. The driver of the second vehicle was not injured in the incident.

FIRE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS RESULTS IN TWO DEATHS

Two people died Sunday in a house fire in Northeast Arkansas.

The fire was at a residence on the south side of Pocahontas.

According to KAIT, Pocahontas Fire Chief Jimmy Shields says that the fire did not appear to be suspicious, but the cause is under investigation. The names of those who died have not been released.

CAPE GIRARDEAU POLICE ASKING FOR INFORMATION ABOUT MISSING TEENAGER

The Cape Girardeau Police Department is looking for information on the whereabouts of a teenager who has been missing since March 12^th.

15 year old Breannin F. Arnold, was last seen walking with friends near Ellis St. and Maple St. on Wednesday, March 12^th at around 6:25 pm. She was last seen wearing black sweat pants, a purple shirt and a gray jacket.

She is not believed to be in any danger, and family members have reported that she may have been in the St. Louis area but believe she may now be in the Dyersburg, Tennessee area.

Anyone who has information on Arnold’s whereabouts is asked to call the Cape Girardeau Police Department at 573-335-6621.

BURGLARY INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST OF MOREHOUSE WOMAN

A multi jurisdiction burglary and stealing investigation has lead to the arrest of a Morehouse woman.

According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, 28 year old Ashley M. Riggins has been arrested on burglary, stealing, and property damage charges.

The arrest comes following an investigation of the burglary of a residence near Vanduser on March 11^th. Firearms, a coin collection, and jewelry were stolen during the burglary.

NAME RELEASED OF MAN ARRESTED IN KENNETT APARTMENT FIRE

Authorities in Kennett have released the name of a man taken into custody following a fire at an area apartment building.

According to the Kennett Police Department, Lewis H. Howard has been arrested for first degree arson.

The arrest is in connection to a fire Sunday at a building on South Vandeventer Street.

WINONA MAN FACING FELONY METH CHARGE

A Winona man is facing a felony drug charge in connection to his arrest over the weekend.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Clinton D. Barnes was arrested Saturday in Shannon County on a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Barnes is also facing charges of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and driving while suspended.

ORAN MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO FIREARM CHARGE

An Oran man faces up to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to a felony firearm charge.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 28 year old Joshua L. Rogers pled guilty to one felony count of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

Officers reportedly found a stolen handgun in Rogers’ residence in September of 2013.

Rogers now faces a maximum punishment of 10 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing has been set for June 16^th.

BILL THAT WOULD LIMIT UNION FEE COLLECTIONS GIVEN FIRST APPROVAL BY MISSOURI HOUSE

The Missouri House has endorsed legislation that would require annual written authorization for public employee unions to receive dues automatically deducted from a worker's paycheck.

The measure endorsed Monday evening would require similar approval for unions to spend worker fees on political activities.

Supporters argued it gives public employees more control over how unions spend their fees. Opponents say it would be an undue burden on those who want to participate in a union.

Governor Jay Nixon vetoed similar legislation last year. To avoid another veto, this year's Republican-supported measure would head to the August ballot instead.

The bill, known to supporters as "paycheck protection," needs one more vote before moving to the Senate. It does not apply to unions representing first responders, such as police and firefighter organizations.

ARKANSAS UNEMPLOYMENT RATE DROPS TO JUST OVER SEVEN PERCENT

Officials say Arkansas' unemployment rate dipped to 7.1 percent in February.

Arkansas Department of Workforce Services spokeswoman Becky Heflin says the state's unemployment rate has been steadily dropping since last October. Heflin says employment has increased while the number of unemployed people continues to drop.

Arkansas' rate is down from January's rate of 7.3 percent.

Seven major industry sectors showed gains in February with the government sector posting the highest increase. The Department of Workforce Services says the 5,100 jobs added in the government sector primarily came as public schools and universities returned to full capacity after the holiday break.

Employment in the leisure and hospitality sector rose by 900 jobs.

The biggest drop came in the trade, transportation and utilities sector, which saw a decline of 900 jobs.

HOUSE COMMITTEE RECEIVES ARTICLES OF IMPEACHMENT AGAINST GOVERNOR NIXON

Three articles of impeachment against Missouri Governor Jay Nixon are now in a state House committee.

Republican lawmakers have raised several complaints against the Democratic governor.

One article seeks to impeach Nixon over an executive order directing state tax officials to accept joint returns from same-sex couples who married legally in other states.

Another asserts Nixon did not move fast enough to call special elections for vacant legislative seats. The third complains there was insufficient punishment of officials involved in a dispute over the handling of concealed gun permits.

The articles of impeachment have been referred to the House Judiciary Committee.