RIVER RADIO NEWS MARCH 3, 2014

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PARMA MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Parma man has died following a single vehicle wreck Saturday night in New Madrid County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 50 year old Terry L. Wilcox, was driving on Route D, east of Malden, when he failed to negotiate a turn and hit a ditch. Wilcox was pronounced dead at the scene.

Wilcox was wearing a safety device according to the Highway Patrol crash report.

ONE KILLED, ANOTHER INJURED AFTER CAR COLLIDES WITH TREE IN WAYNE COUNTY

A Marquand man has died, while another suffered minor injuries following a wreck Friday evening.

According to authorities, 26 year old Daniel W. Davis was killed when the car he was riding in ran off the side of Wayne County Road 202 and hit a tree. Davis was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the vehicle, 24 year old Eric D. Davis, also of Marquand, suffered minor injuries.

MAN KILLED IN HEAD ON COLLISION IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY

A head on collision Saturday morning in Cape Girardeau County has resulted in the death of a Jackson man.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the collision occurred on Highway 25 near Gordonville. A vehicle driven by 67 year old Jimmy Tankersley, of Jackson, reportedly crossed the center line of Highway 25 and struck another vehicle.

Tankersley, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the second vehicle was taken to an area hospital with serious injuries.

TWO YEAR OLD THAT WAS FOUND IN CARTER COUNTY CREEK DIES

A two year old who was found lying in a Carter County creek last week, has died.

According to KFVS, Adrian Hindal, of Ellsinore, died Friday morning at a St. Louis hospital. Adrian was found in a creek near his home on Monday, February 24^th.

Authorities say that the death appears to have been an accident.

JONESBORO MAN SENTENCED AFTER PLEADING GUILTY TO RAPING 10 YEAR OLD GIRL

A Jonesboro man has been sentenced after pleading guilty to raping a 10 year old girl.

According to Second Judicial District of Arkansas Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington, 30 year old Tedrick Turner has been sentenced to 31 years, 8 months, in the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

The guilty plea is in connection to an investigation that began last May. Turner will also have a five year suspended sentence upon his release in addition to having to register as a sex offender.

FOUR YEAR OLD BELL CITY BOY SERIOUSLY INJURED AFTER BEING HIT BY TRUCK

A four year old Bell City boy was air lifted to a St. Louis hospital after reportedly stepping into the path of a truck.

According to the Highway Patrol, the incident occurred on Keller Road Thursday afternoon in Bell City.

4 year old Daelon Brown was seriously injured after stepping in front of a pickup. He was taken by Air Evac to Cardinal Glennon Hospital.

MOTORISTS ADVISED TO BE CAREFUL ON MISSOURI ROADWAYS

Missouri motorists are advised to be cautious this morning if you have to drive.

Freezing Rain, snow and sleet, hit the area over the weekend causing road conditions to be treacherous this morning. The Missouri Department of Transportation wants to remind you to take your mobile phone and winter survival supplies with if you must travel.

For a look at current road conditions you can check out the MoDOT Traveler Information Map, available online at http://www.modot.org/ or through the smartphone app. The map offers current views of road conditions for Missouri interstates and highways.

MoDOT also provides road conditions information through their Customer Service Center at 888-275-6636.

KENNETT MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

A Kennett man was taken into custody Saturday morning on two felony drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old William K. Midkiff was arrested in Dunklin County on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

ESSEX MAN FACING FELONY DRUG CHARGE

An Essex man is facing a felony drug charge following his arrest Saturday night in Stoddard County.

According to an arrest report from the Highway Patrol, 27 year old Denny Frazier is facing charges of felony possession of methamphetamine and felony possession of meth paraphernalia.

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JACKSON MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

A Jackson man is facing a felony drug charge for methamphetamine.

According to the Highway Patrol, 24 year old Zachary I. Keller, was arrested Thursday morning in Cape Girardeau County on a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Keller is also facing two misdemeanor counts of possession of drug paraphernalia.

EARTHQUAKE RECORDED NEAR WILLIAMSVILLE

An earthquake was reported shortly before 10 am Thursday near Williamsville.

According to the Center for Earthquake Research and Information, the earthquake had a magnitude of 2.4. The earthquake was located 8 miles east of Williamsville and 14 miles west of Puxico. It had a depth of only one tenth of a mile.

MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR DEXTER

Citizens will have the opportunity to speak with staff members of Senator Roy Blunt next week at a Mobile Office in Dexter.

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 Office will be held at the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission from 1 to 2 pm on Tuesday, March 4^th.

MEETING TO BE HELD NEXT WEEK TO DISCUSS IMPROVEMENTS TO HIGHWAY 51 IN BOLLINGER COUNTY

The Missouri Department of Transportation has scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, March 4^th, to discuss improvements to Highway 51 in Bollinger County.

The proposed project includes replacing the Highway 51 bridge over Little Whitewater River on a new alignment in an effort to improve safety. In addition, the proposed structure will be six feet wider than the existing bridge.

The meeting will be held from 4 to 7 pm at MoDOT's Maintenance Shed in Patton.

CAREER AND INTERNSHIP FAIR SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK AT SEMO

The Office of Career Services at Southeast Missouri State University is sponsoring an all majors career and internship fair next week.

The fair will be held from 10 am to 2 pm on Thursday, March 6^th at the Southeast Missouri State University Student Recreation Center – north. Students and alumni of all majors and all class levels are encouraged to attend the event which will feature over 75 employers.

More information, including entry requirements, is available at SEMO.edu.

MARCH TO KICK OFF WITH BOUT OF WINTER WEATHER

February is coming to an end today; however it looks like we are not escaping the winter weather just yet.

According to a Special Weather Statement issued by the National Weather Service, periods of ice accumulation could be possible Sunday and Sunday night across Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois.

Our current forecast shows a chance of freezing rain starting as early as Saturday evening and continuing to early Monday morning when snow will move into the area.

Snow showers are expected to continue until about 7 am Monday morning. A Winter Storm Watch is set to go into effect at Midnight, Saturday night and continue to noon Monday.

LINGUISTIC ERROR COULD CAUSE PROBLEMS IN MISSOURI DRUNKEN DRIVING CASES

The legal interpretation of a three-letter word could sink the results of countless alcohol breath tests in drunken driving cases across Missouri.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that several St. Charles County defense lawyers have successfully challenged blood-alcohol level test results over a linguistic error that remained in state regulations for 14 months before it was fixed in late January.

State Department of Health and Senior regulations say the machines must be periodically tested at one of three blood-alcohol levels: 0.10 percent, 0.08 percent or 0.04 percent.

Before the fix, the rules included the word "and" rather than "or." Some defense attorneys successfully argued that police had to conduct tests at each of those three levels.

The legal limit for blood-alcohol levels for Missouri drivers is 0.08 percent.

MISSOURI HOUSE COMMITTEE ADVANCES LEGISLATION THAT WOULD BLOCK COMMON CORE

A Missouri House committee has advanced legislation that would block the state from implementing new education standards.

The measure endorsed Wednesday would prevent schools from using the Common Core Standards, unless the Legislature passes a bill to adopt them. The Missouri State Board of Education voted to adopt the standards in 2010.

Sponsoring Republican Representative Kurt Bahr says the new benchmarks for reading, writing and math take important teaching decisions away from local school boards. The bill's opponents say the new education guidelines help students prepare for college.

Missouri students are scheduled to take Common Core-aligned tests this fall. Many other states have also adopted the standards.

The measure now heads to the House Rules Committee.

MISSOURI SENATE APPROVES LIMIT TO GOVERNOR’S BUDGET CUTTING POWERS

Missouri governors would be barred from making budget cuts to schools under a proposed constitutional amendment passed by the Senate.

The proposal approved Thursday also would prohibit governors from withholding money budgeted to pay public debts.

The Senate's 30 to 2 vote sends the measure to the House. If passed there, the proposed constitutional amendment would go before voters later this year.

The Missouri Constitution already prohibits governors from making line-item vetoes to budget bills for public schools or debt. But governors currently can freeze or reduce the budgeted spending for any program.

Last year, Governor Jay Nixon temporarily froze part of the money budgeted for public schools while pressing lawmakers to sustain his veto of an income tax cut. He released the money after the veto override attempt failed.

RIVER RADIO NEWS FEBRUARY 27, 2014

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TRUMANN POLICE ARREST COUPLE FOR CHILD ABUSE

A northeast Arkansas couple is facing child abuse related charges.

Authorities say John Hillis has been charged with sexual indecency with a child. Hillis allegedly inappropriately touched himself in front of a young child and showed pornography to the child.

Ashley Hillis has been charged with permitting child abuse.  Investigators say the charge was filed against her because the child had informed Ashley about the incidents, and she allowed them to continue.

CAPE GIRARDEAU WOMAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

A Cape Girardeau woman is facing multiple felony charges following her arrest Wednesday in Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Lindsay G. Bloodworth was arrested shortly before noon Wednesday on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and first degree endangering the welfare of a child.

SUV HIT BY TRAIN IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

An SUV was hit by a train Wednesday morning in Northeast Arkansas.

According to authorities, the wreck occurred on East Northend Avenue in Paragould. The driver of the SUV was taken to a Memphis hospital.

SPELLING BEE COMING THIS WEEKEND TO THREE RIVERS COLLEGE

The Fifth Annual Southeast Missouri Regional Spelling Bee is coming this weekend to Three Rivers College.

Forty-four students from across the region will be competing for the chance to advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.

The spelling bee will be on Saturday at 10 am at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

Competitors for the Regional Spelling Bee were selected through qualifying competitions held at participating schools throughout the region for students in the first through eighth grades. This year’s competition will feature students from 16 schools across nine counties in Southeast Missouri.

PBHS STUDENTS TAKE POLAR PLUNGE TO RAISE MONEY FOR SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Some Poplar Bluff High School students took a chilly swim recently to raise money for a good cause.

The Poplar Bluff High School Student Council took the “Polar Plunge” at Lake Boutin in Cape Girardeau earlier this month.

Historian Lauren McClure told the School Board last week that they were told before the plunge that “the ice was broken up and removed from the plunging section.”

The students jumped into the frigid water to raise money for Special Olympics Missouri.

TWO WAPPAPELLO LAKE CAMPGROUNDS TO OPEN IN LATE MARCH

Campers wishing to get out to Wappapello Lake will be able to use select campgrounds starting in late March.

According to the United States Corps of Engineers, some Redman Creek East sites will be opening on March 21^st. Some sites at the Greenville Campground will be opening a week later on March 28^th.

Reservations can be made online at recreation.gov or by calling toll free at 1-877-444-6777.

RIPLEY COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY

Route Y in Ripley County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a pipe under the roadway.

The work zone will be located one and a half miles north of Highway 160. Work is scheduled to take place today from 8 am to 3 pm.

CAPE GIRARDEAU SENATOR INTRODUCES RELIGIOUS FREEDOM BILL

A Missouri state Senator from Cape Girardeau has introduced a religious freedom bill to the state Senate.

Wayne Wallingford introduced SB 916 earlier this week. According to the Kansas City Star, the bill would allow business owners to cite religious beliefs when refusing to provide service to individuals.

In a Facebook post, Wallingford says that the bill is simply a measure to improve the Religious Freedom Registration Act by allowing individuals to have access to RFRA protections in private lawsuits, rather than having to sue the state for relief after their rights have been violated.

The bill is being compared to others across the US, such as a high profile Arizona bill that gained national attention before it was vetoed by Arizona Governor Jan Brewer Wednesday night.

NEW BILL SEEKS TO SPEED SOME EXECUTIONS

A Missouri Republican is proposing legislation intended to speed executions of those who kidnapped their murder victims.

The legislation would limit extensions for appeals, and the Missouri Supreme Court would need to hear arguments in a case within six months of submission of the last written argument. The high court would have another six months to issue its decision.

The measure also would require the court to issue a warrant to carry out the execution no more than 10 days after the defendant's state and federal appeals have ended.

MISSOURI HOUSE HEARS TESTIMONY ON EXPERIMENTAL MEDICATIONS

A Missouri lawmaker with a seriously ill daughter is encouraging colleagues to pass legislation that could make it easier for patients to gain access to experimental medications.

A House committee heard testimony Wednesday on legislation by Representative Jim Neely that would let drug manufacturers give or sell medicines still in the investigational stages to patients.

Neely says many terminally ill patients are willing to try medicines that don't have approval from the federal Food and Drug Administration. But he says access is limited to those medications.

Neely is a Cameron physician whose 40-year-old daughter is dealing with colon cancer and liver failure. He says the legislation may be too late for his own family but could help others.

Several parents whose children have had serious illnesses testified for the bill.

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LIMITS ENDORSED BY MISSOURI HOUSE

The Missouri House has endorsed legislation attempting to reinstate limits on the amount of money people can receive from medical malpractice lawsuits.

The bill given initial approval Wednesday seeks to re-impose a $350,000 cap on noneconomic damages in medical practice cases.

The state Supreme Court struck down the limit in 2012, ruling that it violated a right to a jury trial that it said had been embedded in the Missouri Constitution since in 1820.

The legislation seeks to get around that ruling by declaring that medical practice claims are not covered through common law in place at the time the constitution was adopted. The bill would instead subject medical malpractice claims to state law.

The House passed a similar measure last year, but it stalled in the Senate.

RIVER RADIO NEWS, FEBRUARY 26, 2014

 DEXTER MAN CONVICTED ON CHILD MOLESTATION CHARGE A Dexter man was convicted Tuesday on a child molestation charge.

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver, Jessie Mann was found guilty on a charge of 1st degree child molestation. The charge was in connection to an alleged incident involving a then 3 year old child in 2011.

Mann’s sentencing was set for April 14th. He faces 5 to 15 years in prison and mandatory life-time supervision. PARAGOULD MAN SENTENCED TO 17 YEARS IN PRISON ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGE A Paragould man has pled guilty to child pornography charges.

According to Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington, 33 year old Clint Everett Fields pled guilty on Tuesday to four counts of distributing, possessing or viewing matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving children.

While executing a search warrant in April of 2013, authorities reportedly found numerous videos of child pornography on a computer Fields was using.

Fields was sentenced to 17 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections to be followed by 15 years suspended imposition of sentence. POPLAR BLUFF MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO GUN CHARGE A Poplar Bluff man faces up to 10 years in prison after pleading guilty to a gun related charge.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 31 year old Artari J. Amos pled guilty on Monday to one count of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

Police reportedly found a firearm with Amos DNA on it while investigating a report of shots being fired in 2012.

Amos’s sentencing is scheduled for May 27th. He faces a maximum punishment of ten years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. TWO CHARLESTON MEN SENTENCED ON FEDERAL GUN CHARGES Two Charleston men have been sentenced on separate unrelated indictments for their distribution of heroin in Mississippi County.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, Adrian Lewis was sentenced to seven years in prison and Melvin Quinn was sentenced to six years in prison on Monday.

Both men pled guilty last December to use of a communication facility in furtherance of a drug crime. POPLAR BLUFF FIFTH AND SIXTH GRADERS VOW TO TAKE PLEDGE AGAINST BULLYING Fifth and Sixth graders in Poplar Bluff vowed to take a pledge against bullying last week during a rally at the 5th and 6th grade center.

Kirk Smalley of the international anti-bullying movement spoke with the students on Friday, February 21st, about how bullying destroys lives. The Oklahoma man’s tragic story was featured in the critically acclaimed documentary “Bully.”

Poplar Bluff Schools’ Human Heroes Chapter of Stand for the Silent is expanding to the 5th & 6th Grade Center after previously being established at the Junior and Senior high during the 2011/2012 school year. PARAGOULD TEENAGER REPORTED MISSING A Paragould teenager has reportedly been missing since last week.

According to KAIT, 15 year old Mariah Fraine has been missing after last being seen on Friday at Paragould Cinema 8.

Another teenager who had been missing since last Thursday, Morgan Price, of Ravenden Springs, reportedly turned herself in to Paragould police Tuesday night. ABSENTEE VOTING BEGINS FOR UPCOMING MUNICIPAL ELECTION Absentee voting has begun for the upcoming general municipal election.

According to the Butler County Clerk website, the election will be held on April 8th and the last day to register to vote is March 12th.

If you want to vote absentee, the final day to request an absentee ballot to be sent in the mail is April 2nd. The last day for citizens to vote absentee is April 7th. ACLU FILES LAWSUIT AGAINST KELSO POLICE CHIEF A Cape Girardeau man is suing a southeast Missouri police chief who obtained a protection order after the man posted an online video of his arrest for disturbing the peace.

Jordan Klaffer was arrested by Kelso Police Chief Jerry Bledsoe in May 2013 after neighbors complained that he was firing his gun outside his family's home. Klaffer was charged after he declined to turn over his guns to Bledsoe.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri filed a lawsuit Tuesday against Bledsoe on Klaffer's behalf. The federal suit claims the protection order violated the free speech rights of Klaffer, who subsequently removed the video and social media postings critical of his arrest. NEW BILL COULD CHANGE SOME FOOD PREPARATION REGULATIONS Nonprofit organizations could prepare food in private homes to serve at public charitable events under legislation endorsed by the Missouri Senate.

Current law requires such food must be prepared in a kitchen regulated by state health authorities. But the measure given first-round approval Monday would allow nonprofit groups to forgo that requirement if they notify people at the event.

The bill would not apply to events in St. Charles, Jefferson and St. Louis Counties, as well as St. Louis City.

The legislation needs one more vote before moving to the House.

MISSOURI PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARY COULD BE HELD LATER IN THE YEAR A Missouri House panel has endorsed legislation that would move the state's presidential primary to March 15th.

The primary is currently scheduled for February but sponsoring Rep. Tony Dugger says keeping that date could cause Missouri to lose delegates at the 2016 national party conventions.

Dugger, a Hartville Republican, says moving the date would avoid a repeat of 2012, when the state held a non-binding presidential primary. Faced with losing delegates, state Republican officials decided that year to select convention representatives with a caucus system held after the election.

National party rules allow only certain states to hold contests before the March 15th date.

The House Elections Committee voted 10 to 0 on Tuesday to adopt the legislation. It now heads to the Rules Committee.

RIVER RADIO NEWS FEBRUARY 25, 2014

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BOY REPORTEDLY FOUND FACE DOWN IN CREEK IN CARTER COUNTY

A two year old boy was reportedly found face down and not breathing in a Carter County creek.

The boy was found yesterday in a creek near Ellsinore. According to KFVS, he has been taken to a St. Louis hospital and Sheriff Richard Stephens said the boy was still alive last night.

An investigation into the incident is underway; however the sheriff says it appears to be accidental.

MORLEY MAN ARRESTED ON CHILD MOLESTATION CHARGES

A Morley man was taken into custody recently on child molestation charges.

According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, 39 year old Eddie S. Hamblin was arrested on Friday following an investigation of an alleged sexual assault.

Hamblin has been charged with one count of first degree statutory sodomy and two counts of first degree child molestation.

CAPE POLICE SEARCHING FOR UNKNOWN MAN WHO APPROACHED CHILD

Officers in Cape Girardeau are looking for a man who they say approached and tried to pick up a child last week.

Authorities say the incident happened last Thursday afternoon near Franklin Elementary School.  Cape Girardeau Police Officer Darin Hickey says the student told investigators that a white van had pulled up near the student and that the driver, a white male, said he was going to turn the van around to pick the child up.

Hickey says the child continued walking and that when the driver turned the van around, got out and approached the child, the child ran to the school.  The driver then left the scene.

Authorities say they are not treating the incident as an attempted abduction, as the man made no attempt to grab the child. However, they do say the case is being treated as a suspicious person.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call 573-335-6621.

PIEDMONT MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY MARIJUANA CHARGES

A Piedmont man is facing multiple felony drug charges following his arrest Monday night in Wayne County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 53 year old Ira R. Zamzow was arrested on felony charges of manufacturing a controlled substance, marijuana; and attempt to distribute a controlled substance, marijuana.

Zamzow is also facing a misdemeanor charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

AREA SHERIFF WARNING OF SCAMMERS CLAIMING TO BE FROM PUBLISHERS CLEARING HOUSE

An area sheriff is warning citizens to be on the lookout for a phone scam involving people claiming they are from Publisher’s Clearing House.

Izard County Sheriff Tate Lawrence says the scammers will state that the individual has won large sums of money.

The scammers direct the individuals to purchase a gift card in the amount of $500 from a discount store and provide them with the numbers from the card.  They may also ask individuals to meet them with $500 cash.

The scammers claim the money is to cover travel and other related expenses in delivering the prize. The website for Publisher’s Clearing House states that they never notify winners by phone or email and that one never has to pay money to receive the prize.

THREE RIVERS IN THE TOP 20 NURSING PROGRAMS FOR MISSOURI AND KANSAS

Ingram’s Magazine has included Three Rivers College in their list of the top nursing programs in Missouri and Kansas.

Three Rivers College was in the Top 20 according to a release from the college. Among the top 20, Three Rivers is the only institution listed with accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and Three Rivers’ Nursing program also has the lowest in-state tuition.

Three Rivers is still accepting applications for its Fall 2014 day and evening nursing classes in Poplar Bluff. The application deadline is March 1^st. For more information, call 573-840-9680.

REVISED TAX BRACKETS GETS FIRST APPROVAL FROM MISSOURI HOUSE

Missouri House members have endorsed the first change in Missouri's income tax brackets since the Great Depression.

A bill given initial approval Monday would require Missouri's tax brackets to be adjusted annually for inflation starting in 2015.

Although the tax rates have changed over time, Missouri's top income tax bracket has been set at $9,000 since 1931. That means all income over that amount is taxed at the same 6 percent rate.

Republican House member Paul Curtman, of Pacific, is sponsoring the tax-bracket legislation. He says that while $9,000 may have been a decent income during the Great Depression, it now falls below the poverty level.

Legislative researchers estimate the tax-bracket adjustment could reduce state tax revenues by $26 million when it's fully in effect.

LAWSUIT FILED AGAINST MISSOURI NATIONAL GUARD

U.S. attorneys have filed a lawsuit against the Missouri National Guard alleging it shortchanges civilian employees when they are called to active duty.

The lawsuit announced Monday says the Missouri National Guard has been requiring civilian employees to resign before allowing them to go on active duty.

The lawsuit says that effectively denies the employees 15 days of annual paid military leave that they are entitled to under federal law. The civilian employees could receive the benefits if they were allowed to take a leave of absence or go on furlough for active duty.

U.S. attorneys are asking a judge to retroactively order benefits for the employees.

A Missouri National Guard spokeswoman referred questions to the state attorney general's office, which had no immediate comment.

CANDIDATES CAN START FILING FOR OFFICE TODAY

Candidates for Congress and state offices are lining up at the secretary of state's office to file for the 2014 elections.

Filing opens today and runs until March 25^th. Candidates showing up today will participate in a random drawing to determine whose name shows up first on the August primary ballot.

All 163 state House seats are up for re-election, as well as 17 Senate seats. The Republicans currently hold 108 seats in the House and have 24 of the Senate's 34 spots.

The state auditor's race is the only statewide contest on the ballot.

All eight of Missouri's U.S. House members also face re-election.

Filing occurs at the secretary of state's office, located a couple of blocks west of the Capitol building.

RIVER RADIO NEWS FEBRUARY 24, 2014

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SCOTT CITY TEENAGER DIES FROM INJURIES RECEIVED IN ATV WRECK

A Scott City teenager has died from injuries he received in an ATV wreck.

According to the Highway Patrol, 17 year old Dominic Hooper was involved in an ATV wreck Friday afternoon near Scott City. Hooper was taken to an area hospital where he later died on Sunday.

MAN ARRESTED BY KENNETT POLICE ON ATTEMPTED STATUTORY SODOMY CHARGE

A man has been taken into custody by Kennett authorities on an attempted statutory sodomy charge.

According to the Daily Dunklin Democrat, 35 year old Roger Neal Howton, of Kennett, is facing a charge of second degree attempted statutory sodomy.

Howton allegedly used Facebook to meet a female juvenile and engage in a sexual act. However, the juvenile was in fact a Kennett Police Officer and Howton was arrested at the location where they agreed to meet.

KENNETT MAN CONVICTED ON FORCIBLE RAPE CHARGE

A Kennett man has been convicted on multiple charges including forcible rape.

Following a two day trial, James Jarrett was reportedly found guilty on two counts of statutory sodomy, along with a charge of forcible rape.

According to KFVS, the charges were from the sexual assaults of three children, ages 12 to 17, in 2010.

ADDITIONAL CHARGES FILED AGAINST FORMER OSCEOLA TEACHER

Additional charges have been filed against a former Osceola High School teacher who is accused of inappropriate sexual conduct with male students.

According to prosecuting attorney Scott Ellington, 28 year old Jacqueline Nicole Winberry, of Paragould, is now facing three counts of transportation of minors for prohibited sexual conduct, in addition to the original four counts of first degree sexual assault.

Winberry was arrested on January 16^th following a joint investigation between the Arkansas State Police, Osceola Police Department, and the Arkansas State Police Crimes Against Children Division.

The investigation began after the Child Abuse Hotline received a report that Winberry had engaged in sexual contact with at least one male student.

HARVIELL MAN FACING DRUG CHARGE

A Harviell man is facing a drug charge following his arrest on Friday.

According to an arrest report from the Highway Patrol, 52 year old Randall A. Ball was arrested shortly after 5 pm Friday afternoon in Ripley County.

Ball is facing charges of driving while intoxicated; failure to drive on right half of roadway; and felony possession of a controlled substance, Alprazolam.

COCAINE AND DRUG TRAFFICKING ARREST MADE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Authorities took an Illinois man into custody Friday on multiple drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 46 year old Casey A. Townsend, of Springfield, Illinois, was arrested Friday afternoon in New Madrid County on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, cocaine; possession of a controlled substance, marijuana; and second degree drug trafficking.

TRUMANN MAN SENTENCED IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ATTACK

A Trumann man has been sentenced to five years' probation after pleading guilty to attacking three students at an elementary school in Caraway, Arkansas in 2012.

The Jonesboro Sun reports that 49 year old Michael Wayne Stayton was sentenced Friday after Stayton pleaded guilty to three counts of battery. Stayton was also ordered to undergo alcohol and drug rehabilitation and to have no contact with the victims.

Stayton was arrested September 18^th, 2012, after allegedly walking into a classroom at Riverside East Elementary and attacking the 8, 9, and 10 year old students because one had reportedly been "mean" to his daughter.

Stayton's attorney said Stayton considered the incident to be horseplay. Stayton said after the hearing that he "just wanted to get it over with."

TWO INJURED IN WRECK INVOLVING A FIRE TRUCK

Two people were injured Saturday in a wreck involving a fire truck.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the fire truck had its emergency lights and siren activated and was operating as an emergency vehicle when it traveled through the intersection of Missouri Highway 34 and Cape Girardeau County Road 349 and struck another vehicle.

The driver of the fire truck suffered minor injuries, while driver of the other vehicle had moderate injuries.

COPPER WIRE THEFT SUMMIT TO BE HELD AT BROSELEY NUTRITION CENTER.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs will be holding a Copper Wire Theft Summit Wednesday in Broseley.

The summit will begin at 3 pm Wednesday and will cover new technology that farmers can use to combat wire theft. The summit will be held at the Broseley Nutrition Center

EARTHQUAKE REPORTED TWO MILES FROM CARUTHERSVILLE

An earthquake was recorded Saturday morning near Caruthersville.

According to the Center for Earthquake Research and Information, a magnitude 2.5 earthquake occurred at 8:43 am Saturday, two miles south of Caruthersville.

The earthquake had a depth of just over five miles.

TWENTY-FOUR THOUSAND NEW JOBS PROJECTED IF MISSOURI EXPANDS MEDICAID

State officials are projecting that 24,000 new jobs would be created if Missouri chooses to expand its Medicaid program.

The Department of Economic Development said Friday that raising the program's eligibility to levels called for by the federal health care law would bring $9.9 billion in new wages to the state.

Governor Jay Nixon has asked lawmakers to expand the program to include adults earning up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level - a little less than $33,000 annually for a family of four. Nixon's administration estimates that 300,000 Missourians could join the program under those levels.

The Republican-led Legislature has repeatedly rejected expanding the program and argued the state couldn't afford it. But a Republican House member introduced legislation this week that would partially expand the program.

HEAVY SNOWS CAUSING MINIMAL RISK OF FLOODING IN MIDWEST

Despite the snow still covering the upper Midwest, National Weather Service experts are optimistic that spring flooding will be minimal in the nation's Heartland.

Several Midwestern branch offices of the National Weather Service released spring flood outlook reports late Thursday.

None project significant flooding on all waterways, and the risk of even minor flooding is below normal in many places.

That's a bit of a surprise considering how snowy the winter has been. Parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa still have up to 3 feet of snow on the ground.

National Weather Service hydrologist Mark Fuchs in suburban St. Louis says the snowfall has been offset by unusually low river levels and drought. He says when the snow melts, much of it is expected to soak into the parched ground.

RIVER RADIO NEWS FEBRUARY 21, 2014

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BODIES OF MISSING REYNOLDS COUNTY COUPLE FOUND

The bodies of a missing Reynolds County couple have been found.

Authorities say crews found the bodies of 54 year old William Talley and 47 year old Jordy Wagner with the assistance of search dogs early yesterday morning.

Talley and Wagner were last seen February 1^st leaving a bank in Piedmont. The couple’s vehicle was found Wednesday approximately three miles from their home in Reynolds County.

A cause of death has not yet been determined.

TWO TRAILER HOUSES REPORTEDLY BLOWN OVER IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Yesterday’s severe weather left three people trapped after two trailer homes were blown over in Pemiscot County.  Authorities say the three people were taken to an area hospital for treatment.

There was also a report of a roof being blown off of a home.

A National Weather Service storm report lists quarter and dime sized hail being observed as well in Southeast Missouri.

BERNIE MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGES

A Bernie man is facing multiple felony drug related charges following his arrest early Thursday morning in Stoddard County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 55 year old Dale D. Morgan was taken into custody shortly after 3:30 am Thursday on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and possession of drug paraphernalia.

CHILI COOK OFF IS THIS WEEKEND

Chili lovers will want to check out a free event this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

The Mason Dixon Chili Society Chili Cook Off is scheduled for Saturday from 11 am to 2 pm at the Black River Coliseum. The event is free and open to the public. Donations and proceeds from the event will go the United Gospel Rescue Mission.

HIGH SCHOOL EQUIVALENCE TEST TO BE HELD IN CARUTHERSVILLE

A High School Equivalence test has been scheduled for early next month in Caruthersville.

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

JONESBORO TEACHER RECEIVES MILKEN EDUCATOR AWARD

A Jonesboro teacher was surprised at Douglas MacArthur Junior High when she learned she had received a national award.

A special assembly was held at the school to honor English and Language Arts teacher Erin Hodges for receiving the Milken Educator Award.

According to the award’s website, the Milken Educator Awards program rewards and inspires excellence in the world of education by honoring top educators around the country with $25,000 unrestricted awards.

PRESCRIBED BURNS PLANNED FOR OZARK RIVERWAYS

Officials at Ozark National Scenic Riverways are preparing for several prescribed burns to be conducted this spring.

Operations will continue as usual during the burns, however public, foot and vehicle travel in or near the prescribed fire operations may be restricted.

Over 3500 acres of land is set to be included in the burns which will take place between late-February and mid-April.

MISSOURI LEGAL POT SUPPORTERS TO DELAY CAMPAIGN

A group that hoped to put a marijuana legalization proposal on Missouri's November ballot instead plans to postpone its efforts until the 2016 presidential election.

Show Me Cannabis organizers say an internal survey shows that just 45 percent of likely voters support legal pot, with 51 percent opposed. The group had submitted 10 different legalization proposals to the Missouri secretary of state's office but hoped for voter approval ratings of at least 60 percent.

Executive director John Payne says the cannabis group plans to focus its immediate efforts on proposed legislation reducing Missouri's criminal penalties for marijuana possession. He's also concerned that voter turnout could be low in November, when the job of state auditor is the only statewide office on the ballot.

MISSOURI SENATE PASSES RESOLUTION ON SCENIC RIVERWAYS

Missouri senators have adopted a resolution asking the state's congressional delegation to block the federal government's proposed management plan of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

The National Park Service is in the midst of changing the management plan for the park along the spring-fed Current and Jacks Fork rivers. The system's preferred option would close 65 miles of undesignated horse trails and unauthorized stream crossings, and add restrictions on the use of motorized boats.

The resolution asks the park system to leave the current plan in place, work with the Missouri Conservation Department or relinquish control of the park to state officials.

The measure was adopted on a 23 to 8 vote on Thursday and now heads to the House.

MISSOURI FINDS NEW EXECUTION DRUG SUPPLIER

Court documents filed on behalf of Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster show that the state has found a new supplier of its execution drug, less than a week before convicted killer Michael Taylor is scheduled to be put to death.

A Tulsa, Oklahoma based compounding pharmacy reached a settlement Monday in a suit filed by Taylor and agreed that it won't provide pentobarbital for the execution scheduled for Wednesday.

Koster's office said in a Wednesday filing with U.S. District Court in Kansas City that Missouri has arranged for a different pharmacy to provide pentobarbital. That pharmacy is not named.

Attorneys for Taylor responded in a filing on Thursday that it would violate Taylor's constitutional rights to execute him without an opportunity to check the background of the new pharmacy.

MISSOURI SENATE TO TAKE UP GUN NULLIFICATION BILL

Missouri senators are expected to pass legislation that would send federal agents to jail for enforcing some federal gun laws.

The measure on the Senate's Thursday calendar provides for any federal law considered by the state to infringe on gun rights to be declared null and void in Missouri. Federal agents enforcing those laws could face up to a year in prison and a $1,000.

Courts have consistently ruled that states cannot nullify federal laws. But supporters argue the measure is necessary to protect law-abiding gun owners from intrusive federal regulations. Opponents say it wouldn't survive a court challenge.

Earlier this week, the Senate stripped a provision requiring gun thefts to be reported within 72 hours.

Senate approval of the bill would send it to the House.

RIVER RADIO NEWS FEBRUARY 20, 2014

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ABDUCTED SIKESTON CHILDREN FOUND

Two children who were abducted Tuesday from a Sikeston home have been found.

Authorities with the Scott County Sheriff’s Department say 6 year old Paige C. Cullen and 4 year old Riley Cullen have been located and that they are safe. They say the two children were taken by their biological mother after custody was granted to their biological father.

The two children have been returned to their father

STEEL PLANT ACCIDENT LEAVES ONE DEAD

Authorities say a man was killed at a Newport, Arkansas steel plant when a ladle of liquid steel apparently spilled in the facility's melt shop.

Sheriff David Lucas told KAIT on Wednesday that an estimated 38 tons of the liquid steel may have spilled at Arkansas Steel Associates. The man's name and details of the accident were not immediately released.

A plant official did not immediately return a phone call to The Associated Press for further comment.

The company's website says it produces specialty products for the railroad industry.

MAN STABBED IN THE STOMACH IN JONESBORO

A 28 year old man was reportedly stabbed in the stomach yesterday in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

According to authorities, the incident occurred Wednesday afternoon and the victim was taken to an area hospital for treatment.

Authorities are searching for a suspect in the stabbing.

MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING INCIDENT

One man has turned himself in to authorities in connection to a shooting in Jonesboro.

According to authorities, 20 year old Kwane’ Hudson, of Jonesboro, is facing charges of first degree battery and simultaneous possession of drugs and a firearm.

The charges stem from an incident where 19 year old Casey Lewis was reportedly shot in the leg.

FORMER ARKANSAS OFFICER CHARGED, ACCUSED OF TAKING DRUGS FROM TAKE BACK BOX

A former member of the Arkansas State Police is facing a felony charge after being accused of taking prescription medications from a drug take back box.

Authorities say 38 year old Seth M. Higginbottom, of Cave City, has been charged with breaking and entering in connection to the incident.  They say Higginbottom admitted to taking over 50 Oxycodone pills from the box at the Sharp County Sheriff’s office.

Higginbottom joined the Arkansas State Police in 2004.  He resigned one day before the charges were filed.

CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES

A Cape Girardeau man has been taken into custody in Cape Girardeau County on multiple drug charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 26 year old Christopher J. Hicksberry was arrested last night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, xanex; and attempt to distribute a controlled substance, marijuana.

Hicksberry is also facing a charge of failure to drive in a single lane.

STRONG THUNDERSTORMS POSSIBLE FOR TODAY

A Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service says that there is the possibility for some strong storms today.

According to the Outlook, scattered to numerous thunderstorms are expected to develop today across an area which covers Southeast Missouri, Western Kentucky, Southern Illinois, and Southwest Indiana.

Storms that develop today could have the potential to become severe, however the severe potential will be greatest from 3 to 8 pm, generally over Western Kentucky.

Damaging winds are expected to be the main threat today, and a wind advisory will be in effect from 9 am to 8 pm. A few brief tornados, in addition to flooding, are also possible.

SOBRIETY CHECKPOINT TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH IN BUTLER COUNTY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol tells us that troopers are planning for a sobriety checkpoint to be held next month in Butler County.

According to Captain George Ridens, sometime during the month of March, Troop E officers will conduct a sobriety checkpoint and a driving while intoxicated saturation enforcement operation.

The checkpoint will be in Butler County, while the DWI saturation will be located in 7 counties including Butler, Stoddard, Dunklin, and Pemiscot.

INCOME TAX CUTS ENDORSED BY MISSOURI HOUSE

The Missouri House has endorsed a pair of tax cut plans that could reduce state revenues by hundreds of millions of dollars annually.

The bills given initial approval Wednesday in the Republican-led chamber could set up another showdown with Democratic Governor Jay Nixon, who vetoed an income tax cut bill last year.

One of the bills could eventually cut taxes by $700 million annually. It would gradually reduce Missouri's top individual income tax rate to 5.3 percent from 6 percent and phase in a 50 percent deduction for business income reported on individual tax returns.

The other bill includes a similar business income deduction paired with a 50 percent cut in Missouri's corporate income tax rate. It's projected by legislative researchers to cost up to $347 million annually.

GOVERNOR NIXON APPROVES BILL ON FILING PROCEDURES FOR PUBLIC OFFICE

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has signed legislation that could give deployed military members and the disabled a chance to be listed first on a ballot if they run for office.

Missouri uses a random drawing to determine the ballot order for candidates who file in person on the first day of a filing period.

The legislation allows proxies to draw numbers for candidates who cannot be physically present because they are disabled or deployed on active military duty.

Nixon signed the bill Wednesday at the secretary of state's office, where candidates for state offices and Congress will line up next week to begin filing for the August primary election. The legislation takes effect immediately and is the first bill to become law this year.

RIVER RADIO NEWS FEBRUARY 19, 2014

MISSOURI HOUSE GIVES FIRST APPROVAL TO AMENDMENT GRANTING LEGISLATORS MORE BUDGET POWER  

The Missouri House has given initial approval to a proposed constitutional amendment granting lawmakers a say in the governor's budget-cutting decisions.

The measure endorsed by voice vote Tuesday grew out of legislators' frustration with Governor Jay Nixon's decision to block expenditures for some items included by lawmakers in the state budget.

The Missouri Constitution gives the governor power to cut spending. But some lawmakers contend Nixon has pushed the limits of that power by restricting spending even when state revenues are running ahead of projections.

The new proposal would let lawmakers override gubernatorial spending cuts by a two-thirds vote of the House and Senate.

The measure needs a second House vote to go to the Senate. It would appear on the ballot later this year.

RIVER RADIO NEWS FEBRUARY 18, 2014

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MAN FOUND DEAD IN IRON COUNTY

Authorities are investigating the death of a man who was found yesterday outside of Ironton.

According to authorities, 43 year old Carl Risher was found dead Monday afternoon. His death is being considered suspicious, and an autopsy has been scheduled for today.

SEX OFFENDER ARRESTED IN BAXTER COUNTY FOR VIOLATING REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS

A sex offender was arrested last week in Northern Arkansas for an alleged violation of the sex offender registration act.

According to the Baxter County Sheriff’s Office, they received information that 27 year old Jacob Deal Langston was no longer living in Norfork, where he said he was living when he registered, but was in fact residing east of Mountain Home.

Langston was found hiding in a residence on Friday and arrested on a felony charge of failure to register as a sex offender.

Langston had been convicted in 2008 in Izard County of sexual assault, robbery and other charges.  Langston had reportedly beaten and sexually assaulted an adult female victim.

TWO ARRESTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY ON METH CHARGE

Two men were arrested late last night in Cape Girardeau County on a meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 42 year old Kent L. Volkerding, of Jackson, and 32 year old Ryan W. Glover, of Woodson Terrace, were both arrested shortly before 10:30 pm.

They are each facing felony charges of possession of methamphetamine; and possession of drug paraphernalia, methamphetamine.

DRUG INVESTIGATION LEADS TO THE ARREST OF FOUR PEOPLE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Four people were taken into custody last week in northeast Arkansas following a drug investigation.

According to authorities, 45 year old Markus Ellison, 41 year old Candice Bennett, and 23 year old Todd Jayce Matthews, all of Walnut Ridge, along with 42 year old Ray Fry, of Imboden were arrested.

Bennett has been charged with possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and possession of drug paraphernalia. Fry is facing a charge of delivery of a controlled substance, prescription drugs. Ellison and Matthews are each facing a charge of delivery of a controlled substance, marijuana.

$50,000 DONATED TO THREE RIVERS ENDOWMENT TRUST

Two Parma residents have donated $50,000 to a new Three Rivers College campus.

According to Three Rivers College, Barry and Michelle Aycock have donated $50,000 to the Three Rivers Endowment Trust for Three Rivers College’s Eastern Campus. The campus is currently under construction in Sikeston.

PRESENTATION ON CYBERSECURITY TO BE HELD TOMORROW AT SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY

As a part of National Engineers Week, Southeast Missouri State University will be hosting a presentation on Cybersecurity.

The presentation, “Trust Platforms in Digital Commerce,” will be held Wednesday from noon to 1 pm at Rhodes Hall, room 101.

The presentation will be given by Dr. Vijay Anand, assistant professor in the Department of Industrial and Engineering Technology. For more information call 573-651-2387.

PHARMACY AGREES NOT TO PROVIDE DRUG FOR LETHAL INJECTION

An Oklahoma pharmacy has agreed not to provide Missouri with a drug for a scheduled execution next week, but it's unclear whether the decision will delay the lethal injection.

Court documents filed late Monday say death row inmate Michael Taylor has reached an agreement in his lawsuit against The Apothecary Shoppe.

His attorneys say the Tulsa compounding pharmacy was providing a drug for his February 26^th execution that could cause "inhumane pain." The court documents say the company won't prepare or provide any drug for the execution.

However, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon indicated last week that the state could move forward with the execution even after a judge temporarily blocked the company from providing the drug.

A hearing is set for today in the case.

SIGNATURES BEING SOUGHT FOR PROPOSED EARLY VOTING PERIOD

Supporters of a proposed early voting period in Missouri are gathering petition signatures to try to put the issue on the November ballot.

Campaign treasurer Matthew Dameron said Monday that organizers are using volunteers and professional petition circulators to collect signatures of registered voters before the May 4^th deadline.

Dameron is a former chief of staff to Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster. He says Koster has provided political advice to the early voting campaign.

The proposed constitutional amendment would let voters cast ballots in person or by mail beginning six weeks before a general election. Current law allows absentee voting only under certain circumstances, such as when people can't get to the polling place because they will be out of town or are ill or disabled.

MISSOURI SENATE GIVES INITIAL APPROVAL TO CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT CONCERNING GUN RIGHTS

Missouri senators have given preliminary approval to a proposed amendment to the state's constitution that would increase protections for gun owners.

The measure endorsed Monday would go before Missouri voters in November.

The amendment would define the right to bear arms as "unalienable" and require the state to defend against any "infringement" of that right. It would also include defending one's "family" with a firearm as a guaranteed constitutional right.

Sponsoring Senator Kurt Schaefer, of Columbia, says the change would ensure that future gun regulations are heavily scrutinized by Missouri's courts.

The amendment would specify that the Legislature could still impose restrictions on gun ownership for convicted violent felons and the mentally ill.

The proposal needs one more Senate vote before moving to the House.

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SCOTT CITY MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A single vehicle wreck Friday afternoon claimed the life of a Scott City man.

According to the Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on County Road 321 in Scott County when a vehicle driven by 76 year old Ronald D. Adams ran off the side of the road and overturned in a creek.

Adams was pronounced dead at the scene.

CHARGES FILED AGAINST MAN IN CAPE GIRARDEAU STABBING

Authorities have identified a suspect in connection to a stabbing incident last week in Cape Girardeau.

According to the Cape Girardeau Police Department, 42 year old Billy Joe McGee, of Cape Girardeau, has been charged with felony first degree assault and armed criminal action.

The victim of the incident was stabbed in the lower chest Thursday night and had serious injuries, however they do not appear to be life threatening. McGee is still at large and anybody who has information on his whereabouts is encouraged to contact their local law enforcement.

SHOOTING REPORTED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

One person reportedly has non-life threatening injuries following a shooting incident in Northeast Arkansas.

According to KAIT, the shooting occurred in the area of East Poplar and North 7^th Avenue in Paragould and allegedly involved neighbors who had gotten into an argument. The identities of those involved have not yet been released.

TWO ARRESTED ON METH CHARGES IN WAYNE COUNTY

Two people were taken into custody on Valentine’s Day in Wayne County on a meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 47 year old Lennie G. Bailey, of Lowndes, and 38 year old Misty D. James, of Bloomfield, were each arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and possession of up to 35 grams of marijuana.

MDHSS LOOKING FOR ORGANIZATIONS TO PARTICIPATE IN SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is looking for organizations to help feed children this summer through the Summer Food Service Program.

The program provides nutritious meals to children under the age of 18 during summer months when school breakfast and lunch programs are not operating. Organizations eligible to participate in the program include schools, faith-based organizations, camps, private nonprofit agencies, and local governments.

More information is available online at www.health.mo.gov/sfsp. Applications will be accepted from March 1^st through May 15^th.

NORANDA SEEKING 25 PERCENT REDUCTION IN ELECTRIC RATE FOR SMELTER IN NEW MADRID

Missouri's largest consumer of electricity is asking the Missouri Public Service Commission to cut its electric rate, saying Ameren Missouri is overcharging customers.

Noranda Aluminum Holding Corp. filed the request Thursday. The request seeks about a 25 percent reduction in the electric rate Ameren charges for power at Noranda's aluminum smelter in the southeast Missouri town of New Madrid.

If approved, rates for other Ameren Missouri customers could rise. Noranda says its request would be expected to increase other consumers' rates by 1.8 percent or less.

Warren Wood, Ameren Missouri's vice president of legislative and regulatory affairs, says the utility will fight the cuts. He told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that Noranda in effect is seeking to pass on the cost of its rate cut to other customers.

MEETING SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK TO DISCUSS IMPROVEMENTS TO HIGHWAY 412 IN KENNETT

The Missouri Department of Transportation has scheduled a meeting for this week to discuss improvements to Highway 412 in Kennett.

The meeting will be held on Thursday, February 20^th at South Elementary. The proposed improvements include five-laning Route 412 from Route 84 to Route VV, constructing a roundabout at Route VV and four-laning from Route VV to Routes O and Y.

According to project manager Eric Krapf, visitors will be able to stop by the meeting anytime from 4:30 to 7 pm on Thursday to discuss the project.

COALITION FOR ROADWAY SAFETY OFFERING GRANTS FOR PROJECT PROM OR GRADUATION

Grant funding is available to area high schools for Project Prom or Graduation.

Selected schools will receive $200 to assist with expenses for location rental, food, entertainment and door prizes from the Southeast Coalition for Roadway Safety.

The Southeast Coalition will accept applications from schools within the southeast region until March 7^th, with notification of awards on March 14^th. Interested schools and/or their sponsors can receive more information by contacting Southeast Coalition Regional Contact Sandra Taurone at (573) 472-5388.

REVAMP OF MISSOURI CRIMINAL LAWS BEING CONSIDERED BY STATE SENATE

Missouri Senate leaders say legislation to revamp the state's criminal laws could be debated on the floor this week.

The bill's supporters say the current system can be confusing and contains too many specific crimes. The legislation would create new classes of felonies and misdemeanors and combine some offenses into single charges.

The criminal code was last revised in 1979, but since then lawmakers have continued to create crimes. Bill supporters say this has led to complexities and, in some instances, uneven punishment.

In their push to pass the bill, the measure's backers also are citing a high number of crimes that are charged only sparingly in a given year.

TRAFFIC CAMERAS UNDER DISCUSSION BY MISSOURI LEGISLATURE

Missouri lawmakers could clear up a legal thicket entangling communities' red light cameras while also applying the brakes to cameras designed to nab speeders.

State approval would be required for speed or red light cameras on state highways, and communities seeking to place them elsewhere would need to follow specific requirements. Speed cameras on local roads would be limited to school zones, work zones and areas where serious traffic accidents are excessive.

Legislation endorsed by a House committee also seeks to address recent court cases over red light cameras. Appeals courts have focused on how points are assessed for violations caught by red light cameras.

The bill would specify that traffic infractions captured by speed or red light cameras would not lead to points on a motorist's driving record.

RIVER RADIO NEWS, FEBRUARY 14, 2014

 POCAHONTAS WOMAN KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK A woman has died following a two vehicle wreck Wednesday morning in Lawrence County.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 31 year old Tanieka L. Brown, of Pocahontas, was pronounced dead at the scene after she reportedly pulled her vehicle into the path of another vehicle while attempting a left turn.

The driver of the other vehicle suffered an undisclosed injury. POPLAR BLUFF MAN RECEIVES 50 YEAR SENTENCE ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES A United States District Judge has sentenced a Poplar Bluff man to 50 years in prison on child pornography charges.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, Samuel Gonzales, of Poplar Bluff, was sentenced to 600 months in prison on Thursday. Gonzales had pled guilty in November to one felony count each of production and attempted receipt of child pornography. GUNS RECOVERED FROM VEHICLE AT NORTHEAST ARKANSAS HIGH SCHOOL Police in Jonesboro say they found three firearms and a BB gun in a student's vehicle at Valley View High School.

Authorities questioned a student Wednesday after he posed with a gun for a video before school.

KAIT reports an officer searched the 17-year-old's truck. The officer found a 12-gauge shotgun, and two rifles.

The youth told the officer he used the guns for hunting. The weapons were turned over to a relative and the boy was disciplined by the school.

Earlier Wednesday, students at Douglas MacArthur Junior High School found a bullet on a school bus. TWO POPLAR BLUFF MEN ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON METH CHARGE Two Poplar Bluff men were arrested last night on a meth related charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old James D. Phillips and 32 year old Todd J. Aikey were each arrested in Wayne County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Phillips is also facing several other charges including driving while intoxicated – drugs and driving while revoked. INDIANA MAN ARRESTED IN NEW MADRID ON TRAFFICKING CHARGE An Indiana man was taken into custody Thursday afternoon on a felony drug charge.

According to the Highway Patrol, 38 year old Robert S. Hormel, of Richmond, Indiana, was arrested shortly before 2 pm in New Madrid County. Hormel is facing a felony charge of 1st degree trafficking drugs – cocaine. CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN FACING METH CHARGE A Cape Girardeau man is facing a drug charge following his arrest Wednesday night in Wayne County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 34 year old Sean M. Daugherty was arrested on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. MAN REPORTEDLY STABBED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU A man reportedly suffered what appear to be non-life threatening injuries in a stabbing incident last night.

According to authorities, the victim was stabbed in the abdomen in Cape Girardeau and taken to an area hospital. The name of the victim was not available. DORENA HICKMAN FERRY REOPENS A ferry connecting Missouri and Kentucky has reopened.

The Dorena-Hickman ferry reopened yesterday morning on their winter schedule according to a post on the ferry’s facebook page. The ferry had been closed due to the winter weather conditions. PHOTO ID BILL ENDORSED BY MISSOURI HOUSE ELECTIONS COMMITTEE A Missouri House committee has endorsed legislation requiring voters to show official photo identification at polling places.

The House Elections Committee on Wednesday adopted a bill and a proposed constitutional amendment to implement the change.

Republicans supported the measures and argued they were necessary to prevent election fraud.

The bill would let people obtain one government-issued ID free of charge. It would also allow voters who can't afford an ID or were born before 1941 to cast provisional ballots.

Missouri voters would need to approve the constitutional amendment in November for the legislation to take effect. BILL WOULD MAKE MISSOURI LAWMAKERS FOLLOW SUNSHINE LAW Some Missouri House members have filed legislation that would make them subject to the state's open-records law.

The legislation was introduced Wednesday by Democrat John Mayfield, of Independence. It follows a 2013 report by Republican State Auditor Tom Schweich that criticized the Legislature for adopting a double standard on open records.

The Legislature has interpreted the Sunshine Law to apply to the full House and Senate, committees and staff members, but not to individual lawmakers. That means documents and emails in the possession of individual lawmakers are considered exempt from public disclosure.

Mayfield said his bill to make individual legislators comply with the Sunshine Law would bring greater transparency to the Legislature. The bill has 22 co-sponsors.

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TWO CHILDREN DEAD FOLLOWING FIRE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Two Northeast Arkansas children have died in a house fire.

According to authorities, the fire yesterday morning happened at a residence in Greene County. The names of the two children have not been released.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

HAYTI MAN FACING CHILD MOLESTATION CHARGE

A Hayti man is facing a child molestation charge.

According to Missouri Case Net, 18 year old Ricky England was arrested by the Hayti Police Department on a charge of first degree child molestation.

Hayti Police Chief, Paul Sheckell, says that the arrest is in connection to a report made by an 11 year old girl.  The girl told authorities that England had inappropriately touched her, according to KAIT.

SIKESTON WOMAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY DRUG CHARGES

Authorities have taken a Sikeston woman into custody after allegedly finding her with multiple drugs.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Stephanie R. Cruse, was arrested early Wednesday morning in Scott County.

Cruse is facing felony charges of possession of hydrocodone, possession of xanax, and possession of tramadol, along with an additional felony charge of tampering with physical evidence.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO FIRST DEGREE MURDER

A man has pled guilty to the murder of his child in Northeast Arkansas.

Sidney Campbell, of Brookland, pled guilty yesterday to first degree murder in connection to the death of his one month old child. He received a prison sentence of 26 years.

KNEIBERT CLINIC LAUNCHES REDESIGNED WEBSITE

An area medical clinic is celebrating the launch of its redesigned website.

Kneibert Clinic launched the site last week. Through the new website, patients can quickly and easily locate information to fill their healthcare needs and check out a new blog focusing on healthy living.

During the summer, the patient portal will launch on the site. The portal will allow patients to access their medical information online, as well as refill prescriptions, access health history forms and lab results, and pay their bills.

The website is located at www.kneibertclinic.com.

JONESBORO CALL CENTER TO SHUT DOWN IN MAY

A call center in Jonesboro is again closing its doors and laying off employees.

StarTek said Tuesday that 125 people will lose their jobs as the facility shuts down completely on May 12. Company marketing director Rosemary Hanratty says the Jonesboro call center performed well, but that StarTek decided to close it as part of a "strategic business decision."

StarTek previously ceased operations in northeast Arkansas in April 2012, but reopened several months later.

Hanratty tells The Jonesboro Sun that the company has no current plans to possibly reopen again in Jonesboro.

The call center provided customer support for various industries.

POPLAR BLUFF REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER OFFERING HELP IS SIGNING UP FOR HEALTH INSURANCE THROUGH THE ONLINE MARKETPLACE

The deadline to have health insurance before tax penalties start is rapidly approaching, and a local hospital is offering help to get people signed up.

The Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center is offering application counselors that can assist individuals and their families in evaluating the available health plans and determine if they are eligible for Medicaid or other insurance options.

The last day to enroll for health insurance before the penalties kick in is March 31^st. If you would like to set up an appointment with the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center, call 573-776-9070.

SENATE PANEL ADVANCES LEGISLATION ON CHEMOTHERAPY COSTS

A Missouri Senate panel has advanced legislation that could lower costs for some cancer patients.

Bills endorsed Tuesday by the Senate insurance committee would require insurance companies to charge patients the same out-of-pocket costs for chemotherapy pills as they do for intravenous chemotherapy treatments.

Patients often currently are charged much more for oral chemotherapy. That's because it is handled as a pharmacy benefit while intravenous treatments often trigger only a standard co-payment for an office visit.

Twenty-seven states and the District of Columbia already have enacted laws requiring equal coverage for oral and intravenous chemotherapy treatments.

The Missouri legislation now goes to the full Senate. A similar proposal is pending in a House committee.

MISSOURI HOUSE GIVES INITIAL APPROVAL TO BILL THAT WOULD LET HEALTH CARE WORKERS OPT OUT OF PROCEDURES FOR ETHICAL OR RELIGIOUS REASONS

Legislation that would let health care workers refuse to participate in procedures that violate their ethical or religious beliefs has been given first-round approval in the Missouri House.

The measure endorsed 116-38 on Wednesday is sponsored by Republican House Speaker Tim Jones. He says the bill protects patients in making sure they don't have people involved in their procedures making second guesses because of their religion.

Critics argued that it would block access to health care for people, especially women.

The measure would apply to procedures such as those involving abortion-inducing drugs, artificial insemination and the withdrawal of nutrition and hydration. Religiously-affiliated hospitals would be shielded from liability for refusing medical procedures violating their religious beliefs.

It needs one more vote before moving to the Senate.

RIVER RADIO NEWS FEBRUARY 12, 2014

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WORKER DIES IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

An employee of a business in Northeast Arkansas was killed Tuesday.

According to authorities, a worker at Nucor Steel died early Tuesday morning.

The employee, whose name was not released, reportedly suffered a head injury after the train he was riding on appeared to have derailed.

OVER ONE THOUSAND TRAFFIC CRASHES INVESTIGATED OVER TWO DAYS LAST WEEK IN MISSOURI

Troopers with the Missouri State Highway Patrol investigated over one thousand crashes over a two day period last week due to the hazardous weather conditions.

According to Colonel Ron Replogle, preliminary statistics for February 4^th and 5^th showed that troopers investigated 1,054 traffic crashes over the two days, which resulted in 96 injuries and two fatalities statewide.

In addition to the crashes, troopers also answered over three thousand calls for assistance during the two days. These calls included vehicles breaking down, sliding off the roadway, or vehicles being left on the side of the road impeding snow removal.

EVENTS CONTINUING FOR NATIONAL SALUTE TO VETERANS WEEK AT VA MEDICAL CENTER

Events are continuing today at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center for Salute to Veterans Week.

At 1 pm today, the music group Nuthin’ Fancy will be providing entertainment, with refreshments provided by the Poplar Bluff Federal Credit Union.

On Thursday, students from the Sears Youth Center will be bringing cards to the Medical Center. Salute to Veterans Week will wrap up on Friday, when the VFW and Auxiliary Department of Arkansas will have snacks and roses in the lobby for the veterans.

23^RD ANNUAL JAZZ FESTIVAL STARTS TOMORROW AT THREE RIVERS COLLEGE

The Tinnin Fine Arts Center will be filled with jazz music starting tomorrow night as a part of the 23^rd Annual Jazz Festival at Three Rivers College.

The festival will feature two shows, one on February 13^th and a second on February 15^th. Both shows will be at 7 pm and admission is free.

Performing both nights of the Festival will be the Three Rivers College Jazz Band, and guest clinician Steve Williams, Director of Bands at Windsor High School in Imperial, Missouri.

Performing on February 13^th will be the Poplar Bluff Junior and Senior High School bands, the Dexter High School band, the Sikeston High School band, the Jefferson R-7 Junior and Senior High bands, and the Charleston High School band.

The Saturday, February 15^th performance will feature the Southeast All-District Jazz Band, which consists of the best high school jazz musicians in Missouri Music Educators Association District 10.

For more information, call the Three Rivers College Music Department at 573-840-9639.

2014 CAPE GIRARDEAU REGIONAL AIR FESTIVAL CANCELLED

The 2014 Cape Girardeau Regional Air Festival has been cancelled.

Bruce Loy, Airport Manager at the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport and Director for the Cape Girardeau Regional Air Festival announced yesterday that the headliner for the event, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, have cancelled all of their U.S. air show appearances for this year due to budget cuts.

The festival had been scheduled for mid-may.

CONTRACT AWARDED FOR MULTIPLE ROAD RESURFACING PROJECTS IN STODDARD COUNTY

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission have awarded an almost $2 million contract for resurfacing projects in Stoddard and New Madrid Counties.

The just over $1.7 million contract went to Apex Paving Company. The contract includes resurfacing Routes Z, E, and AF in Stoddard County, along with Route H in New Madrid County.

A timetable for the projects was not released.

LAWMAKERS GIVE FIRST APPROVAL TO BILL THAT WOULD CONSIDER MORE SUBSTANCES AS SYNTHETIC MARIJUANA

Missouri House members have given first-round approval to legislation taking aim at synthetic drugs.

The bill would add several specific substances to what is considered synthetic marijuana.

It was endorsed by a voice vote Tuesday and needs a second vote before moving to the Senate.

In recent years, Missouri has tried to keep pace with evolving synthetic drugs and twice has approved legislation targeting them. Sponsoring House member Shawn Rhoads says the current bill is needed to stay ahead in the effort.

Lawmakers in 2010 barred spice cannabinoids sold as incense known as K2. A year later, the definition of marijuana in state drug laws was expanded to cover synthetics. The 2011 measure also barred substances marketed as incense or "bath salts" that mimic the effects of cocaine and marijuana.

WORKERS TESTIFY FOR HIGHER MINIMUM WAGE

Supporters of a higher wages are urging Missouri lawmakers to let voters decide whether to increase the state's minimum wage to $10 an hour.

Missouri's minimum wage currently is $7.50 an hour - 25 cents higher than the federal minimum wage.

Several low-income workers testified Tuesday before a Missouri Senate committee in support of a proposed ballot measure increasing the minimum wage. The workers said they often must skip meals because they don't earn enough to pay all the bills for food, housing, utilities and transportation.

A Webster University economist said a minimum wage increase would help the economy, because workers likely would spend the additional money.

Lobbyists for several business groups testified against the measure, citing concerns that it could squeeze low-skill workers out of jobs.

MISSOURI HOUSE COMMITTEE ENDORSES RIGHT TO WORK

A Missouri House committee has endorsed a measure, known as "right to work," that would bar labor contracts from requiring that all employees pay union fees.

The House Workforce Development and Workforce Safety Committee also voted on Monday to advance legislation that would change how unions can collect fees. It would require unions to get annual written authorization to collect fees that are automatically deducted from a worker's paycheck.

If they clear the Legislature, both measures would go on a statewide ballot. The Republican sponsors say sending the bills to voters would get around a likely veto by Democratic Governor Jay Nixon.

"Right to work" is a top priority of Republican House Speaker Tim Jones, of Eureka.

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ONE ARRESTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU ROBBERY

One man has been taken into custody in connection to an alleged robbery last week in Cape Girardeau.

According to authorities, 27 year old Omar D. Ware has been charged with first degree robbery and felonious restraint, among other charges.

The arrest is in connection to a reported robbery Friday night at Cape Mart.

COUPLE MISSING OUT OF REYNOLDS COUNTY

Authorities in Reynolds County in rural southeast Missouri continue searching for a couple missing for more than a week.

The Daily Journal newspaper in Park Hills reports that 54-year-old William Talley and 47-year-old Jordy Wagner were last seen cashing a check at Peoples Community Bank in Piedmont on February 1^st. The bank is just a few miles from their home.

The Reynolds County Sheriff's Department was contacted on February 4^th after relatives went to the home and found the heat was off and the family pets had been left unattended.

MAN ALLEGEDLY CALLS IN BOMB THREAT TO DETENTION CENTER IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A man was taken into custody last week after allegedly making multiple calls to the Craighead County Detention Center, including a bomb threat.

According to KAIT, the man also reportedly threatened individual deputies. He was later taken into custody.

The man, who was identified as Corkey Cooksey, is facing two counts of terroristic threatening, among other charges.

DUDLEY MAN ARRESTED ON METH AND PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION CHARGE

A Dudley man was arrested Saturday night in Butler County on multiple drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 40 year old Scott L. Moore, was taken into custody shortly after 11 pm Saturday night.

Moore is facing charges including possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; possession of a controlled substance, alprozlam; and possession of drug paraphernalia.

INVESTIGATION LEADS TO TWO ARRESTS IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY

An investigation by authorities in Mississippi County recently led to the arrest of two men.

According to authorities, 36 year old Benjamin J. Carter, of East Prairie, was arrested on a charge of distribution of a controlled substance, and 26 year old Michael G. Achter Jr., of Anniston, was arrested on a charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

The investigation was started after authorities reportedly discovered that drugs were being delivered to a house in the area.

CONGRESSMAN SMITH PROPOSES TURNING OZARK NATIONAL SCENIC RIVERWAYS OVER TO MISSOURI

Recent concerns about changes to the management plan for the Ozark National Scenic Riverways have prompted Missouri Congressman Jason Smith to file legislation to remove the Riverways from federal control and turn the park over to the state.

Smith says Washington bureaucrats and big city environmentalists might not see anything wrong with limiting access to the park, but that the people Smith represents are adamantly opposed to more federal regulations.

Smith adds that he will continue fighting any attempts to designate new wilderness areas in the ONSR, close walking and horse trails, limit hunting, fishing, trapping, gigging, close access points, ban camping, restrict boat motor horsepower or other recreational activities in the park.

DATE SET FOR RESCHEDULED FAFSA FRENZY AT THREE RIVERS COLLEGE

A new date has been set for the FAFSA Frenzy event at Three Rivers College.

The event will be held on Sunday, February 23^rd from 2 to 4 pm. The event had been scheduled to take place earlier, however was postponed due to recent winter weather.

FAFSA Frenzy, which is co-sponsored by the Missouri Department of Higher Education, is designed to help low-income and first-generation college students complete the FAFSA, the first step for all federal need-based financial aid.

For more information, go online to trcc.edu.

HAZARDOUS MOVING OPERATION TO BE HELD THIS MONTH

The Missouri State Highway Patrol will be operating a Hazardous Moving Vehicle Operation this month in Southeast Missouri.

According to Captain George Ridens, the operation will take place throughout the Troop E area; however, except for it being this month, a specific time table was not given.

The hazardous moving operation is designed to target vehicles that are being operated in an unsafe manner.

HIGHER EDUCATION BOARD ANNOUNCES EXPANSION OF COLLEGE APPLICATION WEEK

More Missouri students could get personal help with filing out college applications this fall.

The Coordinating Board for Higher Education has announced an expansion of "College Application Week."

More than 2,000 students filled out applications during the inaugural event last October at 26 high schools in St. Louis, Kansas City and parts of rural Missouri. The board says it hopes to double the number of participating high schools this fall.

The program is available to all high school seniors, but the goal is to increase the number of applications from students in low-income families and those who would be the first in their families to attend college.

Members of the Missouri College Advising Corps provide one-on-one help to students when filling out applications.

OFFICIALS WORKING ON LIST OF TRANSFERABLE COLLEGE COURSES

Missouri education officials are nearing completion on a list of college courses that will be accepted for all students transferring among the state's public colleges and universities.

A 2012 Missouri law requires the Department of Higher Education to come up with a list of 25 basic courses whose credits will be transferable when students change schools. Officials face a July 1^st deadline to complete the task.

The state now has 20 courses on the list, which it calls the "transfer library." Among those courses are American history, algebra, psychology and music appreciation.

The department says it plans to identify five additional courses by mid-summer. The agency eventually wants to increase the list beyond the minimum 25 required by state law.

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TWO DIE IN CLARKTON HOUSE FIRE

Two people have died following a house fire last week in Clarkton.

According to KFVS, Hannah Weingartner died on Friday from injuries suffered during the fire. On Saturday, Hannah’s mother, Stephanie Studie died, as well.

A cause for the fire is under investigation.

MISSISSIPPI MAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON STATUTORY RAPE WARRANT

A 25 year old Mississippi man was taken into custody recently on a statutory rape warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 25 year old John McHenry Young, of Tupalo, Mississippi, was arrested on a warrant for second degree statutory rape.

Additional details about the arrest have not yet been released.

TWO MEN ARRESTED AFTER ALLEGEDLY ATTACKING MAN AT A MORLEY CONVENIENCE STORE

Two men have been arrested in connection to a reported assault at a convenience store in Morley.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 40 year old Terrial Tyler and 19 year old Terrance Tyler are facing charges of second degree robbery and second degree assault.

The victim was severely beaten in the head and face area. He reportedly told authorities that the Tyler’s had jumped him as he was leaving the store and took multiple items from him.

Walter says that most of the property taken has been recovered.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING METH CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff man is facing a meth charge following his arrest Friday afternoon.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 20 year old Johnathan J. Davis was arrested in Butler County on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Davis also reportedly had a warrant out of Poplar Bluff for failure to appear on an original charge of shoplifting.

MAN ALLEGEDLY FOUND WITH METH IN JONESBORO

One man was taken into custody after reportedly being found with meth in Jonesboro.

According to KAIT, 32 year old Timothy Scott Sage, was arrested Saturday on charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. An officer reportedly found meth and two glass pipes on Sage during a search.

BLYTHEVILLE STUDENT BRINGS HANDGUN TO SCHOOL

Authorities say no one was injured when a 9 year old boy brought a handgun to a Blytheville school this week.

Blytheville Police Chief Ross Thompson says the weapon was discovered Wednesday at Blytheville Primary School when the boy tried to hand the gun to another student, who refused to take it.

Other students alerted staff members, who secured the gun until police arrived.

Thompson tells the Blytheville Courier News that the boy brought the gun from home but apparently did not intend to harm anyone.

The case was turned over to juvenile authorities in Mississippi County.

MAN HITS HIGHWAY PATROL CAR ON INTERSTATE 55

Two men were injured in a wreck Saturday morning involving a Missouri State Highway Patrol car.

According to the Highway Patrol, the patrol car was stationary on Interstate 55 near Marston with its emergency lights activated, when it was struck from behind by a 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche.

The driver of the avalanche, 57 year old Stanley A. Partin, of Portageville, suffered serious injuries.

The driver of the patrol car received minor injuries.

NEW TOUCHSCREEN LAPTOPS INSTALLED AT POPLAR BLUFF MUNICIPAL LIBRARY

A new computer lab has been equipped at the Poplar Bluff Municipal Library.

The lab contains 10 new touch screen laptops that are equipped with Windows 8.1 and Microsoft Office 2013.

This month the library has also began offering free workshops and classes in basic computer use, improvement of job-seeking skills, and GED test preparation. The workshops and classes are being offered in partnership with the Missouri Career Center and the South Central Workforce Investment Board.

For more information, go online to www.poplarbluff.org.

GOVERNOR NIXON SIDES WITH FEDERAL GOVERNMENT CONCERNING OZARK NATIONAL SCENIC RIVERWAYS

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is endorsing the federal government's plan for managing the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

In a letter to Interior Secretary Sally Jewell on Friday, Nixon says the federal government's preferred proposal is the "most reasonable approach."

The National Park Service manages the area around the spring-fed Current and Jacks Fork rivers. It has put forward three options to continue managing the riverways, and Nixon has endorsed the operating plan preferred by the park service.

That proposal would close 65 miles of undesignated horse trails and unauthorized stream crossings. It would also add restrictions on the use of motorized boats, and convert 150 miles of off-road trails used by all-terrain vehicles to hiking paths.

Nixon added that the federal agency must incorporate flexibility in implementing a management plan.

REPRESENTATIVE STEVE HODGES APOLOGIZES FOR DWI

A southeast Missouri lawmaker is apologizing for being picked up by police on suspicion of driving while intoxicated.

Democratic Representative Steve Hodges, of East Prairie, said Friday that he plans to remain in the Legislature but is looking into receiving counseling.

Hodges told The Associated Press that he had been drinking Wednesday night and also had been driving, but didn't believe he was drunk. He said police picked him up after he stopped his vehicle in a parking lot early Thursday and slipped while stepping on ice. He said he was taken to a hospital and issued a DWI citation.

Hodges said he recently has experienced several stressful events, including a divorce and the death of a friend. But he said that's not an excuse for his behavior.

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MISSISSIPPI MAN KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

A Mississippi man has died following a wreck yesterday in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the wreck occurred shortly after 3 pm on Highway 61 in Mississippi County. 29 year old Michael S. McMullen, of Olive Branch, Mississippi, was driving on Highway 61, when the vehicle he was driving travelled off the west side of the road.

McMullen overcorrected, causing the vehicle to overturn and eject him. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

PIEDMONT MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING

A Piedmont man has been taken into custody in connection to an alleged shooting Thursday.

According to KFVS, Piedmont authorities say that two men were shot and a pregnant woman had been beaten. One of the men had been shot in the shoulder, while the other was shot in the hip. The three victims’ injuries don’t appear to be life threatening.

The husband of the woman, 31 year old Jonathan Cody Elliott, was arrested.

According to an arrest report from the Highway Patrol, Elliott is facing charges including two counts of felony first degree assault and two counts of felony first degree domestic assault, along with a single count of felony second degree domestic assault, unlawful use of a weapon, armed criminal action, and stealing a motor vehicle.

RUNAWAY FOUND IN FREEZING CONDITIONS

Wayne County authorities say a 16 year old runaway is being treated for frostbite after being found by several train workers.

According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, the boy, who had run away from a boarding home Tuesday night, was discovered about four miles south of Leeper Mill Spring early Wednesday morning. He had walked approximately 8 miles.

The teen is listed in stable condition.

MAN REPORTEDLY FOUND IN POSSESSION OF MULTIPLE DRUGS IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Authorities arrested an Arkansas man Thursday in Dunklin County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 48 year old Charles E. Bateman, of Marmaduke, was arrested at around 1:30 Thursday afternoon.

Bateman is facing charges of possession of a controlled substance,  hydrocodone; possession of a controlled substance, clonazepam; driving under the influence, drugs; and careless and imprudent driving.

SCOTT CITY MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE

A Scott City man is facing a drug charge out of Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 33 year old Eugene B. Seals was arrested shortly before 10 am Thursday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance. Additional information about the arrest has not been made available at this time.

EVENTS CANCELLED AT THREE RIVERS COLLEGE

Road conditions have caused the cancellation of multiple events today at Three Rivers College.

On the college’s Facebook page, it was confirmed that all events today, including the Saakumu Dance Troupe performance and the Red Cross Blood Drive, have been cancelled.

The FASFA Frenzy event, originally scheduled for this Sunday, has been rescheduled for Sunday, February 23^rd from 2 to 4 pm.

MISSOURI HOUSE REPRESENTATIVE FROM EAST PRAIRIE ARRESTED ON SUSPICION OF DWI

A Democratic state House member has been arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated in Missouri's capital city.

Police said Representative Steve Hodges was arrested around 1:20 am Thursday in Jefferson City. Hodges did not immediately return a telephone call Thursday from The Associated Press.

KOMU reports that the Cole County jail says Hodges was not held there and that prosecutors had not filed charges.

Hodges, of East Prairie, was first elected to the House in 2006. He ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 2012 against Republican Jason Smith. Term limits bar Hodges from seeking re-election to his Missouri House seat this year.

MISSOURI HOUSE MEMBER WANTS TO IMPEACH GOVERNOR NIXON

A Missouri House Republican wants to impeach Governor Jay Nixon over his order that the state accept joint tax returns from legally married same-sex couples.

A resolution filed Thursday by Parkville Republican Nick Marshall states Nixon is guilty of "willful neglect of duty and misconduct in office."

Missouri's Constitution states marriages must be between a man and a woman to be valid and recognized.

Missouri's tax code is tied to the federal government. Nixon said couples filing joint federal returns also must file joint state returns. Federal agencies determined legally married same-sex couples would be treated as married for tax purposes regardless of residence.

Nixon spokesman Scott Holste called the resolution a "publicity stunt" and says the governor is focused on education, jobs and health care.

HOUSE SCRAPS GOVERNOR NIXON’S BUDGET PLAN

Republican House leaders are scrapping Governor Jay Nixon's recommendations for Missouri's budget.

House Budget Committee Chairman Rick Stream said Thursday that he believes Nixon's budget plan would spend at least $310 million more than Missouri would receive in tax revenues.

Stream said he won't use Nixon's budget recommendations as the starting point for legislation. Instead, Stream was filing budget bills Thursday that use the 2014 appropriations as the starting point for the 2015 budget.

Stream said he will give each of the House's six appropriations committees a lump sum of money that they can divvy out for funding increases.

He says the allotted increase for education will be $317 million. That's significantly shy of the $490 million education increase proposed by Nixon.

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NEW MADRID MAN ARRESTED ON WARRANT FOR DISTRIBUTION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested a New Madrid man on a warrant for a drug charge.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 27 year old Terry Randal Watson was arrested on a warrant for possession and distribution of a controlled substance.

Watson’s bond was set at $25,000.

WISCONSIN MAN ARRESTED ON CHARGE OF ASSAULT ON A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

A 27 year old Wisconsin man was arrested early Wednesday morning on a charge of assault on a law enforcement officer.

Few details about the incident have been made available, however the Missouri State Highway Patrol says that 27 year old Richard C. Swartz, of Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, was taken into custody shortly before 1 am Wednesday in Scott County.

Swartz is facing charges of possession of prescription medications; resisting arrest; driving while intoxicated, drugs; and third degree assault on a law enforcement officer.

CAPE GIRARDEAU LAWYER BLOCKED FROM SERVING ON MISSOURI BOARD OF CURATORS

A Missouri Senate committee has blocked one of Governor Jay Nixon's nominees to serve on the University of Missouri Board of Curators.

The motion to endorse Cape Girardeau lawyer Michael Ponder failed Wednesday on a 5 to 5 vote.

Ponder was first tapped by Nixon for the post in January 2013. The Senate did not act on his nomination last year, but Nixon reappointed Ponder in June and he has been serving on the board since then.

It was Ponder's previous position in state government, however, that concerned members of the Senate Gubernatorial Appointments Committee. Ponder previously served on the State Board of Education, where senators say he made controversial decisions to implement education standards and a school funding law.

Ponder declined to comment on the vote.

UTILITY POLE BROKEN IN STODDARD COUNTY WRECK

A wreck on an ice covered road yesterday resulted in a broken utility pole.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on Highway 25, one mile south of Dexter. A vehicle slid on the ice covered road and was struck by a second vehicle.

The first vehicle travelled off the road and overturned, injuring three people inside. The three people had minor to moderate injuries.

The second vehicle also slid off the road and broke a utility pole.

WINTER WEATHER FORCES CLOSURE OF FERRY

A ferry connecting Missouri and Kentucky has been closed due to the recent winter weather.

The Dorena-Hickman ferry will be closed until further notice due to the winter weather conditions, according to a post on the ferry’s Facebook page from Tuesday.

The ferry provides service from Dorena, Missouri to Hickman, Kentucky.

DRIVER EXAMS TO NOT BE AVAILABLE ON UPCOMING HOLIDAYS

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding those who want to take drivers exams that the tests will not be available during two upcoming holidays.

Driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed on Wednesday, February 12^th for President Lincoln’s birthday and then again on Monday, February 17^th for President Washington’s Birthday.

COULD MORE SNOW BE ON THE WAY NEXT WEEK?

We might not be done with the winter weather just yet.

A Hazardous Weather Outlook, released by the National Weather Service in Paducah, Kentucky, says that there are small chances of light snow from Friday night through Sunday as several weak impulses move across the area. However, little snow accumulation is expected from the impulses.

A bigger threat may be coming early next week as a more significant weather system could come in Monday night and Tuesday.

The National Weather Service says that accumulating snow will be possible with the system, along with a wintry mixture in portions of Southeast Missouri just west of the Mississippi River.

LEGISLATION DISCUSSED THAT COULD BRING CHANGES TO MISSOURI FLAG

A Missouri House committee is considering legislation that would create a commission to study the state's official flag.

The House Veterans Committee held a public hearing Tuesday on the measure. Sponsoring Representative Jeff Roorda, of Barnhart, says it would give Missouri the opportunity to adopt a new flag, if officials decide a change is needed.

The nine-person commission would hold public hearings around the state, then submit a report to the governor, secretary of state and lawmakers on whether the flag should be altered.

The state's official flag was adopted in 1913, nearly 100 years after Missouri became a state. The committee did not vote on the measure.

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ONE KILLED, THREE INJURED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK

A Poplar Bluff man was killed in a head on collision Tuesday in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the accident occurred when a vehicle driven by 26 year old Joshua A. Anderson crossed the centerline of Business 67 and hit another vehicle. Anderson was pronounced dead at the scene.

A passenger Anderson’s vehicle, along with the driver and a passenger in the other vehicle, all suffered serious injuries. They were each taken to the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

TWO ARRESTED AFTER COCAINE AND FIREARMS FOUND IN JONESBORO HOME

Two people were taken into custody after officers reportedly found guns and drugs while executing a search warrant in Jonesboro.

According to authorities, over 17 grams of cocaine and a handgun were found in a home on Friday.

34 year old Louada Miller and 32 year old Farris Reed were each arrested on charges of simultaneous possession of drug and firearms, along with possession of a controlled substance with purpose to deliver.

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY AFTER BEING RESCUED FROM BURNING HOME

Authorities in northeastern Arkansas rescued a man from a burning home, then arrested him later on an outstanding warrant.

Gosnell Fire Department Captain Darryl Grissom says firefighters responded to a trailer fire Monday night. Grissom says flames were shooting out from the front of the trailer when firefighters arrived.

Grissom and Gosnell Police Department Corporeal Keith Hill pulled the man to safety through the window of the trailer. Grissom tells The Courier News that the man suffered smoke inhalation and a cut on the head.

Grissom says the man was taken to a Blytheville hospital for treatment but also was arrested by Gosnell police for an outstanding warrant. The man remains in the hospital in stable condition.

SAAKUMU DANCE TROUPE PERFORMANCE DELAYED TO FRIDAY

The performance of the Saakumu Dance Troupe at Three Rivers College has been delayed until Friday.

According to a post on the College’s Facebook page, the troupe will be performing Friday at noon at the Bess Activity Center.

The Saakumu Dance Troupe is a world-touring performance group out of Ghana that performs traditional music and dance from across Africa, along with contemporary pieces inspired by African culture.

The event is free to the public.

MISSOURI LOTTERY WARNS PLAYERS OF SCAMS

The Missouri Lottery is warning players to be on the lookout for scams.

Missouri Lottery Executive Director May Scheve Reardon wants players to realize that phone calls and emails that appear to be too good to be true should be considered red flags.

The lottery says it will never require Social Security Numbers, bank account numbers, mother’s maiden name, etc., from winners over the phone or require a winner to provide money upfront to claim a prize.

If you have any questions, you can contact the Missouri Lottery at 1-866-665-6883.

WIND AND ICE TO CAUSE HAZARDOUS DRIVING CONDITIONS

Driving conditions will be treacherous for today, but possibly for more reasons than you think.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, high winds paired with covered or partially covered roads have the potential to cause these vehicles to slide off driving lanes.

We are expecting wind gusts as high as 24 miles per hour today in Poplar Bluff.

MoDot has released some more tips for people who will be traveling this morning, such as wearing your seatbelt; adjusting your speed to road and weather conditions; placing plenty of room between your vehicle and others on the road; keeping both hands on the wheel and not using cruise control.

You can check MoDOT's Traveler Information Map online at www.modot.org for the latest road conditions.

TRANSPORTATION TAX CONSIDERED BY MISSOURI HOUSE COMMITTEE

A Missouri House committee is considering a one-cent sales tax increase to fund state transportation projects.

Transportation officials said Tuesday the penny tax could generate $8 billion over the next decade. They say the tax increase is necessary for the state to maintain roads and bridges, and to fund new infrastructure projects.

If approved by the Legislature, the tax would go on the statewide ballot in November. The tax would need to be re-approved by voters after 10 years to remain in effect. Ten percent of funds raised by the sales tax would go toward local transportation projects.

The measure cleared both the House and Senate but failed to win final passage in the waning days of last year's legislative session.

REVENUE REPORTS RELEASED FOR MISSOURI AND ARKANSAS

Financial figures were released for both Missouri and Arkansas this week.

Missouri’s general revenues decreased by 9.5 percent in January compared to January last year, however the state’s net general revenues are up for the fiscal year.

In Arkansas, revenues are down compared to last year, but still above forecast.

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STOLEN PROPERTY FROM CAPE GIRARDEAU AREA LOCATED IN SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Authorities in Cape Girardeau say they have located property that was reported stolen from three locations in the Cape Girardeau city limits.

According to the Cape Girardeau Police Department, the property was recovered from a location in Southern Illinois. Several suspects have been identified in connection to the stolen property and one has been taken into custody.

The identity of the suspect in custody has not yet been released.

FIREARM AND METH DISCOVERED DURING VEHICLE STOP IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Authorities in Lawrence County, Arkansas arrested two people on Friday after officers reportedly found methamphetamine and a firearm in a vehicle during a traffic stop.

According to authorities, Scott Callahan, of Bono, and Taylor Fisher, of Hoxie, are each facing charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, possession of a controlled substance, and simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms.

WOMAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE COUNTS OF DELIVERY OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

A woman in Northeast Arkansas was taken into custody last week on multiple counts of delivery of a controlled substance.

According to authorities, 29 year old Theresa Lewis, of Black Rock, allegedly sold prescription medication out of her residence. She was arrested on Friday on four counts of delivery of a controlled substance.

AWARD WINNING DANCE TROUPE TO PERFORM WEDNESDAY AT THREE RIVERS

An African dance troupe is set to perform tomorrow at Three Rivers College for Black History Month.

The Saakumu Dance Troupe, a world-touring performance group out of Ghana, will be performing at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center beginning at 6 pm on Wednesday. The event is free to the public.

The troupe performs traditional music and dance from across Africa along with contemporary pieces inspired by African culture.

ANOTHER ROUND OF WINTER WEATHER SET FOR TODAY

The Missouri Department of Transportation is advising Missourians to stay home today due to the upcoming winter weather.

MoDOT has issued a no travel advisory for the duration of the weather today.

The forecast is calling for Snow and Sleet, with snow and sleet accumulation of two to four inches possible today in Poplar Bluff.

A winter storm warning will go into effect at 9 am and continue until 6 am on Wednesday.

HIGHWAY PATROL WANTS MOTORISTS TO BE CAUTIOUS WHEN DRIVING IN WINTER WEATHER

Winter weather is on deck for today and the Missouri State Highway Patrol wants motorists to plan ahead and drive safely if they need to be on the roadways.

Before you travel, make certain your vehicle is in good working condition. The Missouri State Highway Patrol also suggests keeping your fuel tank at least half full. Remember to place an ice scraper, tire chains, battery booster cables, blankets, flashlight, and a bag of sand or kitty litter in your trunk in case they are needed.

Before heading out on the road you can check road conditions online at Modot.org or on the Missouri Department of Transportation mobile app.

MISSOURIANS ASKED TO PREPARE FOR EARTHQUAKE AWARENESS MONTH

State emergency officials say Missourians need to prepare for a potential earthquake.

February is Earthquake Awareness Month and the 202nd anniversary of the 1812 New Madrid earthquake. State Emergency Management Agency Director Michael Barrett says an earthquake offers no advanced warning - unlike other natural disasters - and would have a significant and long-term effect on Missouri.

The New Madrid seismic zone is centered in southeastern Missouri and is the most active fault east of the Rocky Mountains.

GOVERNOR NIXON FREES UP MONEY TO HELP WITH PROPANE PRICES

Governor Jay Nixon is making $15 million available to help Missourians cope with rising propane prices.

Nixon says the money would allow low-income people to continue heating their homes even though gas prices have increased to more than $4 per gallon.

The funds would come from the federal government's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Nixon is also doubling the amount each household can receive for propane assistance.

The Missouri Propane Gas Association says the high costs are due to increased exports, colder weather and higher-than-expected crop yields.

LEGISLATION BEING CONSIDERED BY MISSOURI LAWMAKERS WOULD IMPOSE RESTRICTIONS ON UNIONS

A Missouri House committee is scheduled to consider legislation that would change the ability of certain public employee labor unions to collect fees.

The Workforce Development and Workforce Safety Committee is planning to hear public testimony Monday on the measure its supporters call "paycheck protection."

The bill would prohibit a union from receiving fees that are deducted automatically from a public employee's paycheck. It would also require unions to get written authorization to spend a person's fees on political activities.

Unions representing "first responders," such as police and firefighters, would not be affected by the bill.