May 8, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 050814
TWO DEAD FOLLOWING COLLISION IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY
Two Charleston residents have died following a wreck Wednesday afternoon in Mississippi County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on Missouri Highway 105 when a 17 year old driver swerved to miss a vehicle that was attempting to make a left hand turn and pulled into the path of an oncoming vehicle driven by 84 year old Nina Marshall, of Charleston.
A passenger in Marshall’s vehicle, 84 year old Alfred Marshall, also of Charleston, was pronounced dead at the scene. Nina Marshall was later pronounced dead at an area hospital.
The teenage driver suffered moderate injuries.
TWO FACING MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES FOLLOWING THEIR ARREST IN WAYNE COUNTY
Two people were taken into custody Wednesday in Wayne County on multiple felony charges.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 64 year old Arthur E. Strahorn, of Wappapello, and 41 year old Regina L. Underwood, of Poplar Bluff, were arrested at 8:30 pm last night.
They are each facing felony charges of attempt to manufacture a controlled substance, methamphetamine; possession of methamphetamine precursors; unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, and four counts of possession of a controlled substance.
TWO ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON METH CHARGE
Two men are facing charges following their arrest Wednesday afternoon in Stoddard County.
According to the Highway Patrol, 44 year old Brian D. Cato, of Advance, and 17 year old Richard Davis, of Cape Girardeau, were each arrested on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia.
The men are also each facing a possession of marijuana charge.
BOY INVOLVED IN JONESBORO SHOOTING RELEASED FROM HOSPITAL
Authorities say a 10 year old boy wounded in a shooting over the weekend in Jonesboro has been released from the hospital.
Jonesboro police Sergeant Doug Formon says Brayam Davila has been released from a hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. The boy was one of four people wounded in shootings Saturday in Jonesboro. Four people, including the suspected gunman, were killed.
Formon tells The Jonesboro Sun that the other three wounded people remain in critical condition.
Police say 40 year old Porfirio Hernandez shot six people at a home then drove to another location and fatally shot another man. Police say Hernandez was later found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound on a rural county road.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN CATCHES RECORD SPOTTED SUCKER
A Poplar Bluff man has set a new state record.
According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, last month Tyler Goodale reeled in a spotted sucker at Duck Creek Conservation area.
The fish weighed 3.65 pounds, which is over a pound heavier than the previous record fish, which was caught in 1992 at Wappapello Lake and weighed 2 pounds 1 ounce.
Adults spotted suckers are commonly 9.2 to 15.9 inches long and weigh about around one-third of a pound to 2 pounds.
DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR THREE RIVERS MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM EXTENDED
Three Rivers College officials have extended the deadline to apply for the Medical Laboratory Technology Program.
Applications are now being accepted through May 14th at 4 pm for classes beginning in August.
Students in the Medical Laboratory Technology Program learn to use sophisticated equipment and computers to analyze blood, body fluids and tissues to provide test results that are critical for patient care.
Application forms and admissions criteria are available online at trcc.edu/admissions, or by contacting the Three Rivers Nursing and Allied Health Department at 573-840-9681.
STRIPING TO BEGIN THIS WEEKEND IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CITIES AND TOWNS
Motorists in Southeast Missouri are advised to be cautious of striping vehicles that will be out in area towns and cities beginning this weekend.
Striping crews will re-stripe state routes in Cape Girardeau, Poplar Bluff, Sikeston, Dexter, Kennett and Malden beginning on Sunday.
To help reduce the impact to traffic, striping in cities and towns will take place overnight. Striping work will begin at 6 pm, with work ending at 4:30 am daily. The project is expected to take two weeks, weather permitting.
LAWMAKERS APPROVE ADDITIONAL TAX CREDITS FOR DONATIONS TO FOOD PANTRIES AND MATERNITY HOMES
Missouri lawmakers have sent Governor Jay Nixon legislation to let the state award additional tax credits for donations to maternity homes, pregnancy resource centers and food pantries.
The House gave final approval to the measure with a 121 to 25 vote on Wednesday. The Senate passed it earlier this year.
The bill would boost the total amount of tax credits by $500,000 for all three programs. People can currently claim a credit worth half of their donation, but the state can only redeem $2 million each per year for the pregnancy and maternity centers, and $1.25 million for food pantries.
During the past three budget years, none of the programs hit their current annual cap.
GUN RIGHTS AMENDMENT PASSES MISSOURI HOUSE AND SENATE
Missouri lawmakers have given final approval to a proposed amendment to the state Constitution intended to strengthen the right to bear arms.
The Republican-led Senate voted 23 to 8 on Wednesday to send the bill to the November ballot. The proposal passed the House a day earlier with a 122 to 31 vote.
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.
Supporters say the measure would force courts to use a higher standard of review when considering the constitutionality of gun controls.
It would also specify that the Legislature could still impose restrictions on gun ownership for convicted violent felons and the mentally ill.
May 7, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 050714
POPLAR BLUFF CITY MANAGER CONTRACT TERMINATED
The leadership of Poplar Bluff will be looking for a new city manager after the city council decided Monday to terminate the contract of Doug Bagby.
The decision was made at Monday evening’s city council meeting by a four to two vote.
Officials say Mark Massingham has been appointed as interim city manager.
According to KFVS, Poplar Bluff Mayor Angela Pearson says the decision was made because the city is moving in a new direction.
PUXICO WOMAN ARRESTED ON IDENTITY THEFT CHARGES
A Puxico woman has been arrested after being accused of trafficking in stolen identities.
Authorities say 24 year old Jennifer Marie Jerls allegedly used credit devices without authorization for the purpose of obtaining property from June 2011 until October 2013.
According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, when confronted with the crime, Jerls initially blamed her now deceased mother, but eventually confessed to using one of the credit devices.
ONE ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO GROCERY STORE BREAK IN
One man has been arrested in connection to an alleged break in at a Northeast Arkansas grocery store.
According to KAIT, 28 year old Phillip Michael Walker, of Hardy, was allegedly found inside a Sharp County Price Chopper after store hours.
Walker reportedly fell during the incident, causing serious injuries. The incident occurred Sunday.
BBQ GRILL REPORTED STOLEN FROM AREA UNTIED STEELWORKERS UNION HALL
Authorities in New Madrid County are looking for more information about a grill that was reported stolen earlier this week.
According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, a BBQ Grill that was mounted on a trailer was reported stolen Monday morning from the United Steelworkers Union Hall in Marston.
The grill was last seen Friday evening. If anyone has information about the theft, they are asked to contact Sergeant Danny Ware at 573-748-2516.
CORNING MAYOR DECLARES MAY AS HISTORIC PRESERVATION MONTH
The mayor of Corning, Arkansas has declared May as Historic Preservation Month.
Mayor Dewayne Phelan joins 111 other officials in 60 counties in making the declaration, according to the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program.
More information is available online at www.arkansaspreservation.org.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN PEMISCOT COUNTY
Pavement repairs have been scheduled for today in Pemiscot County.
Highway 84 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane beginning at I-55 and extending east a little over half a mile. Work will take place today from 7:30 am to 4 pm.
MODOT CREWS TO BE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY THROUGH EARLY NEXT WEEK
East and westbound Highway 60 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can wash bridge decks.
This work zone will be located between Highway 61 and Route E.
Weather permitting, work will take place through Tuesday, May 13th from 7 am to 4 pm daily.
HIGHWAY 61 TO BE REDUCED TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY
Highway 61 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder repairs.
Work is scheduled to be performed today from 7 am to 4 pm.
The work zone is located between County Roads 728 and 634.
LEGISLATURE OVERRIDES GOVERNOR NIXON’S TAX CUT VETO
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon says a tax cut enacted despite his veto is a "very real threat" to the state's principles of fiscal discipline.
The Democratic governor said Tuesday the tax cut bill cut doesn't prioritize or adequately protect education. He says families and businesses know that public education is the best economic development tool.
The tax cut measure gradually reduces Missouri's top individual income tax rate and phases in a new deduction for business income reported on personal tax returns.
Missouri's Republican-led Legislature overrode Nixon's veto of the bill. Supporters contend the tax cut will help the economy and keep Missouri competitive with other states that have enacted tax cuts.
SCHOOL FUNDING INCREASES AGREED ON BY MISSOURI LEGISLATORS
Missouri lawmakers have agreed on funding increases for public schools, colleges and universities for the upcoming year.
Public schools would get a $115 million increase on top of their current $3.1 billion in basic funding. But if revenues met Governor Jay Nixon's more optimistic projections, schools could get up to a $278 million increase.
Missouri's higher education institutions would get a $43 million increase to be distributed based on whether they have met performance goals. That would amount to an average of a 5 percent increase.
The chairmen of the House and Senate budget committees announced the funding levels Tuesday at the start of a conference committee to resolve differences in the two chambers' budgets. There were no public negotiations among lawmakers.
LEGISLATORS FACING DEADLINE TO PASS BUDGET
The state Senate's budget chief says there are no plans to revise Missouri's financial projections despite a recent decline in tax revenues.
House and Senate negotiators were to begin work Tuesday on a final version of Missouri's more than $26 billion budget for the fiscal year starting July 1. They expect to get it done before Friday's constitutional deadline for passing a budget.
Missouri's revenues fell 5 percent in April compared with the same month in 2013 and are up just 0.5 percent through the first 10 months of the 2014 fiscal year.
But Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Kurt Schaefer says lawmakers aren't adjusting next year's revenue projections.
Legislators had projected revenues to rise by 2 percent this year and an additional 4.2 percent next year.
May 6, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 050614
DEXTER MAN RECIEVES 25 YEAR SENTENCE FOR SECOND DEGREE MURDER
A Dexter man has been sentenced to 25 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections.
Glen Scott Evans was earlier found guilty of second degree murder for his part in the 2013 death of 34 year old Sean Crow, of Bernie.
Crow was shot in the face inside his truck in the Advance McDonalds parking lot.
TEENAGER SHOT WHILE HUNTING IN REYNOLDS COUNTY
A reported hunting accident in Reynolds County has left a teenager with serious injuries.
According to KFVS, the 17 year old boy was reportedly shot in the chest and face accidently by his grandfather while turkey hunting Sunday morning.
The teen was taken to a St. Louis hospital with non life threatening injuries.
NAMES RELEASED IN JONESBORO SHOOTING
Police say a gunman who shot and killed three people and injured four in northeast Arkansas was an acquaintance or friend, but a motive is unknown.
Jonesboro Police Sergeant Doug Formon says the shooter was 40 year old Porfirio Hernandez, who recently had been released from a mental health treatment facility.
38 year old Chisanto Islas and 12 year old Florza Davila were killed Saturday afternoon at a home in Jonesboro, and four others were injured. The survivors are identified as 36 year old Ayde Davila, 10 year old Brayam Davila, 8 year old Anquel Islas and 43 year old Augusten Hernandez.
About 20 minutes later, police received a call about a shooting at a business, where 31 year old Ricardo Lopez was found dead.
Hernandez was later found dead of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
BERNIE MAN FACING PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION CHARGE
A Bernie man is facing a felony drug charge following his arrest late Monday night.
According to the Highway Patrol, 34 year old Stephen D. Cunningham, is facing a felony charge of possession of prescription medication for hydrocodone, ocycontin, and zolpidem.
Cunningham was arrested shortly before midnight in Stoddard County.
MAN ARRESTED AFTER AUTHORITIES FIND NEARLY 500 POUNDS OF COPPER WIRING IN VEHICLE
One man is in custody after officers allegedly found nearly 500 pounds of copper wiring in Northeast Arkansas.
The discovery came after a high speed chase Monday morning. According to KAIT, the man arrested was David Wayne Edwards, of Blytheville. Authorities say that some of the copper appeared to have come from area abandoned buildings.
RANDOLPH COUNTY INCLUDED IN DISASTER DECLARATION
Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe says Randolph, Pulaski and White counties have been declared federal disasters and people with storm damage are eligible for individual assistance.
Faulkner County, where most of the 15 who died April 27 in the EF-4 tornado were killed, had earlier been approved for assistance. Beebe's office says Independence County also sought a federal disaster declaration but did not meet damage thresholds to qualify.
President Barack Obama is scheduled on Wednesday to tour areas with tornado damage.
Individual assistance includes help covering costs of temporary housing, home repairs and replacement and other losses. Help is also available for medical and dental costs, and funeral expenses.
OPERATION JUMPSTART TO BE OFFERED IN POPLAR BLUFF BEGINNING NEXT MONTH
If you are considering starting or expanding a small business, the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce is offering a national recognized program beginning next month.
Operation Jumpstart: First Step is a program which teaches participants essential small business planning and preparation skills with practical hands-on training.
Beginning June 23rd, the five week program will be held from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm on Mondays and Wednesdays at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce.
For more information, contact Steve Halter at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce at 785-7761. Space is limited, and participants will be taken on a first come, first serve basis. The program is provided at no charge.
STAFF MEMBERS OF SENATOR BLUNT TO HOLD MOBILE OFFICE IN KENNETT
Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be hosting a mobile office next week in Kennett.
The mobile office will be held from 1:30 to 2:30 pm on Monday, May 12th, at the Kennett Chamber of Commerce.
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.
DEMOCRAT TO JOIN REPUBLICANS IN ENACTING MISSOURI TAX CUT
A Democrat from St. Louis County says he will vote to enact a Missouri income tax cut.
House member Keith English said Monday that he supports the bill because it has triggers and fail-safes to protect state revenues. English says the legislation would help small businesses and make Missouri competitive with other states.
Democratic Governor Jay Nixon vetoed the tax cut legislation last week, citing concerns that it could jeopardize funding for education and public services.
The Senate voted to override the veto Monday. House Republicans need at least one Democratic vote for the required two-thirds majority for a veto override.
The legislation would gradually reduce Missouri's top individual income tax rate and phase in a new deduction for business income reported on personal tax returns.
May 5, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 050514
FOUR DEAD, FOUR INJURED IN JONESBORO SHOOTING
Police say a gunman who shot and killed three people and injured four in northeast Arkansas was an acquaintance or friend, but a motive is unknown.
Jonesboro Police Sergeant Doug Formon says the shooter was 40 year old Porfirio Hernandez, who recently had been released from a mental health treatment facility.
A 38 year old man and a 12 year old girl were killed Saturday afternoon at a home in Jonesboro, and four others were injured. About 20 minutes later, police received a call about a shooting at a business, where a 31 year old man was found dead.
Hernandez was later found dead of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Three people are in critical condition in Memphis, Tennessee, hospitals: a 43 year old man, a 36 year old woman and an 8 year old boy. A 10 year old boy is in stable condition.
ONE DEAD AFTER SCOOTER HIT BY VEHICLE
One man is dead after a scooter was hit by a vehicle Saturday afternoon in Carter County.
According to the Highway Patrol, the driver of the scooter, 67 year old Howard H. Wiley, of Van Buren, died following the wreck, which occurred on US 60 near Van Buren.
SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK RESULTS IN SEVEN PEOPLE INJURED AND TWO DEATHS
Two people are dead following a single vehicle wreck Friday night in Mississippi County.
According to the Highway Patrol, the vehicle ran off Interstate 57 near Charleston and overturned, ejecting seven of the nine people in the vehicle.
Two people were pronounced dead at the scene, 57 year old Roger L. Kiger, of Rockville, Indiana, and 55 year old Richard L. Kiger, of Clinton, Indiana.
The other seven people suffered minor to serious injuries.
ONE DEAD IN SUNDAY MORNING WRECK NEAR EAST PRAIRIE
One person is dead following a single vehicle wreck Sunday morning in Mississippi County.
According to the Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred eight miles south of East Prairie, when a driver lost control of her vehicle in a curve. The vehicle overturned and ejected the passenger, 24 year old Chad A. Harden, of Sikeston.
Harden was later pronounced dead. The driver of the vehicle suffered moderate injuries.
SWAT AND POLICE CALLED TO REPORTED DOMESTIC DISTURBANCE IN PARAGOULD
SWAT members were called to a Paragould residence Sunday evening in connection to a reported domestic disturbance.
According to the Paragould Police Department, officers were faced with a male suspect who was reported to be armed inside the house. The SWAT unit was called as a precautionary measure.
The man gave himself up without incident. His identity was not released.
SIKESTON MAN ARRESTED ON ASSAULT ON A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER CHARGE
A Sikeston man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest Friday afternoon.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 35 year old Eric S. Margrabe is facing felony charges of resisting arrest by fleeing, unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, and second degree assault on a law enforcement officer.
Margrabe was arrested shortly after noon Friday in Mississippi County.
THREE RIVERS TO HOLD STUDENT REGISTRATION EVENTS
Three Rivers College has scheduled multiple student registration events through July in Caruthersville and Portageville.
The student registration events will be held at the Caruthersville Public Library and the Delta Center in Portageville on May 7th and then every Thursday starting May 21st. The Portageville events will be from 8 am to noon, with the Caruthersville events following at 1 to 5 pm.
Current and prospective students attending the events can register for classes offered at any of the college’s locations, as well as those offered at the Delta Center, Caruthersville High School, or online.
WEED SPRAYING TO CAUSE DELAYS ON HIGHWAY 60
US Highway 60 in Howell, Shannon and Carter Counties will be reduced to one lane early this week while Missouri Department of Transportation crews spray for weed control along the roadway.
The section of road to be sprayed is located from north Highway 17 in Howell County, through Shannon County to Route Y in Carter County.
Weather permitting, work will take place today through Wednesday from 7 am to 4 pm daily.
INTERSTATE 155 TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS
Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Pemiscot County this week for pavement repairs on Northbound Interstate 155.
The work zone will be located from mile marker 0.1 to mile marker 0.6. Work is scheduled to take place from 6:30 am to 5 pm daily through Wednesday.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS SET FOR THIS WEEK ON INTERSTATE 55
Northbound Interstate 55 will be reduced this week for Pavement repairs.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the repairs have been scheduled for 6:30 am to 5 pm daily through Wednesday.
The work zone is located between mile markers 14.2 and 15.4 in Pemiscot County.
SIGNATURES SUBMITTED ON TEACHER TENURE IMITATIVE
Backers of an initiative petition to eliminate teacher tenure and base employment on student achievement have submitted signatures to get the measure on the November ballot.
Teach Great, the group supporting the proposal, says it turned in more than 275,000 signatures to the Secretary of State's office ahead of Sunday's deadline for groups to submit petitions.
The organization's attorney, Marc Ellinger, says teachers shouldn't be rewarded for seniority alone. Mike Wood, a lobbyist for the Missouri State Teachers Association, argues the measure is not a fair way to evaluate teachers and their performance.
The proposed constitutional amendment would require school districts to adopt an evaluation system based on "quantifiable student performance data."
Election officials must now verify the signatures to ensure the proposal qualifies for the ballot.
REPORT SAYS THAT MISSOURI REVENUES ARE BEHIND PROJECTIONS
A new report shows Missouri revenues are lagging behind growth projections as the state enters the final two months of its budget year.
State figures released Friday show revenues grew by 0.5 percent through April compared to the same point last year. Those numbers fall short of the 2.8 percent growth projected by Gov. Jay Nixon's administration.
State Budget Director Linda Luebbering says collections are still on pace to meet initial targets set by the administration when crafting the operating budget last year. She added that spending restrictions on state agencies and programs are not planned at this time.
Missouri also repaid $350 million it had borrowed during the fiscal year, which began last July and ends on June 30.
April 30, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 043014
WEST PLAINS MAN KILLED IN ARKANSAS WRECK
A West Plains man has died following a wreck Monday in Arkansas.
According to the Arkansas State Police, 63 year old Billy Leatherwood was killed in the wreck in Bald Knob. A vehicle had failed to yield while making a left hand turn and was hit by Leatherwood’s motorcycle on the passenger’s side.
A passenger on Leatherwood’s motorcycle, Cathy Leatherwood, suffered undisclosed injuries.
SHOOTING IN SCOTT CITY RULED ACCIDENT
A recent shooting in Scott City has been ruled accidental.
According to authorities, the incident happened shortly after midnight April 25th, when a 21 year old man allegedly shot a 17 year old girl in the face. The man told investigators that he was showing his gun to friends when it went off.
The man was arrested and later released. No charges were filed.
The girl is expected to recover for her injuries.
TWO EAST PRAIRIE RESIDENTS CHARGED WITH BURGLARY
Two men are facing burglary charges in connection to an alleged residential burglary last week in Anniston.
According to KFVS, 45 year old Van Lynn Owens and 24 year old Dusten Matthew Vinson, of East Prairie, have been arrested. They are each facing charges of first degree burglary, misdemeanor property damage, and three counts of theft/stealing of a firearm.
Owens is also charged with three counts of unlawful possession of a firearm, while Vinson is charged with three counts of unlawful transfer of a firearm to a felon.
A third man is also facing charges in connection to the incident. 41 year old Michael Dean Woods, of Anniston, is facing a charge of hindering prosecution.
SCHOOL BUS HIT BY VEHICLE IN BUTLER COUNTY
Two children, ages 9 and 10, suffered minor injuries Monday in a collision involving a school bus.
According to the Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on Business 67 south of Poplar Bluff. The bus was stopped to unload passengers when it was rear ended by another vehicle.
The driver of the other vehicle, 63 year old Charlotte L. Merriman, of Poplar Bluff, received moderate injuries. Merriman and the two injured children were taken to the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.
FORMER CEO OF SEMO HEALTH NETWORK PLEADS GUILTY TO CONSPIRACY TO SUBMIT FALSE DOCUMENTS
A New Madrid woman faces five years in prison and fines of up to $250,000 after pleading guilty to conspiracy to submit false documents.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 56 year old Cheryl Ann White pled guilty to conspiring to create and submit numerous false documents related to Southeast Missouri Health Network, Inc. to federal agencies from 2004 to 2013.
White served as CEO of Southeast Missouri Health Network, along with being a non-voting member of the board of directors, until December of 2013.
Her sentencing is set for July 30th.
TWO CARUTHERSVILLE RESIDENTS ARRESTED ON FELONY TAMPERING CHARGE
Two Caruthersville residents are facing felony charges in connection to their arrest early Tuesday morning.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 38 year old Jacqueline R. Rodgers and 19 year old Alphonso Bates were arrested at around 12:40 am Tuesday in Pemiscot County.
Rodgers is facing a felony charge of second degree tampering. Bates has been charged with felony first degree tampering.
POPLAR BLUFF ACADEMIC TEAM WINS SCHOLAR BOWL,… AGAIN
The Poplar Bluff High School Academic Team recently won the Class 4 District 1 Championship in the Scholar Bowl Tournament at Cape Central High School, defeating DeSoto, North County and Farmington.
With a varsity record of 117 wins, 45 losses and three ties over the past five years, the Academic Team will advance to the state tournament against Oakville.
MOTORCYCLE SAFETY MONTH BEGINS TOMORROW
The Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging all motorcyclists to be safe as a part of Motorcycle Safety Month in May.
Colonel Ron Replogle has released some tips for motorcyclists including wearing appropriate clothing and protection. Those riding a motorcycle should wear a helmet, eye protection, bright clothing, as well as thick or leather clothing for protection.
Since many will be riding their motorcycle for the first time since the winter has ended, be sure to practice or take refresher courses before going into heavy traffic.
PAYDAY LOAN LEGISLATION APPROVED BY MISSOURI HOUSE
The Missouri House passed legislation that would eliminate renewals on payday loans and lower the amount of interest borrowers can currently charge.
Under current law, loans can be renewed up to six times and lenders can change up to $75 in fees for a $100 loan. In Missouri, payday loans can be up to $500 and last from 14 to 31 days.
The bill also allows a borrower to sign up for additional time to pay back a loan without penalty.
Supporters say the measure protects consumers from debt. But opponents argue it doesn't go far enough to curb irresponsible lending.
House members voted 112 to 39 on Tuesday to send the bill to the Senate, where a different version passed earlier. Lawmakers must agree on an identical measure by May 16th.
UNEMPLOYMENT BILL SENT TO GOVERNOR NIXON
Missouri lawmakers have given final approval to legislation that could make it harder for people to collect unemployment benefits after being fired for repeated absences or other alleged misconduct.
The House passed the bill Tuesday by a 107 to 45 vote. Because it already had cleared the Senate, the measure now goes to Governor Jay Nixon.
The Democratic governor vetoed a similar bill passed last year by the Republican-led Legislature. He cited concerns that it could conflict with federal law, thus putting businesses at risk of having to pay additional federal unemployment insurance taxes.
Republican Senator Will Kraus, of Lee's Summit, says he tweaked the wording of this year's bill to try to address those concerns. But many House Democrats still opposed the bill Tuesday.
TRANSPORTATION SALES TAX PASSED BY MISSOURI SENATE
Missouri senators have endorsed a three-fourths-cent sales tax increase to fund state and local transportation needs.
Tuesday's 22 to10 Senate vote sent the measure to the House, which earlier approved a 1-cent sales tax hike for transportation. If the chambers agree on an identical bill, it would go on the November's statewide ballot.
Transportation officials estimate the Senate version would bring in $534 million annually over its 10-year lifespan. Revenue could be used for state and local highway construction, as well as operating costs for existing travel facilities and alternative modes of transportation.
Supporters say the fuel tax that currently funds transportation is no longer viable with higher gas prices and greater fuel economy. Opponents say raising the sales tax would disproportionately affect low-income Missourians.
April 29, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 042914
CARUTHERSVILLE MAN ARRESTED ON INCEST CHARGE
A Caruthersville man has been taken into custody on an incest charge.
According to the Caruthersville Police Department, officers arrested 40 year old Antonio Truss following an investigation of a sexual assault case involving a minor.
A warrant was issued for Truss for two counts of incest.
WOMAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO STABBING INCIDENT
A woman is facing charges in connection to an alleged stabbing incident in Caruthersville.
According to authorities, on April 26th, Caruthersville officers found a man in an apartment that had allegedly been stabbed. Officers also found a female suspect and placed her under arrest.
The woman, 27 year old Toni Hollywood, is facing charges of first degree domestic assault and armed criminal action.
Information on the condition of the victim was not available.
CHARLESTON CURFEW COMES TO AN END
Officials in Charleston have lifted a temporary curfew that was put into place earlier this month.
According to the Charleston Department of Public Safety, the curfew ended this morning at 6 am. The curfew was put into place due to recent violence.
POPLAR BLUFF BUSINESS INCUBATOR APPROVED FOR TAX CREDIT
A Poplar Bluff business incubator has been chosen for over $100,000 in state tax credits.
According to the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the Ozark Foothills Business Incubator in Poplar Bluff has been approved for $114,699.
The Small Business Incubator Tax Credit program is designed to generate private funds to be used to establish a “protective business environment” in which a number of small businesses can collectively operate, fostering growth and development during a business’ start-up period.
THREE RIVERS CELEBRATES OPENING OF NEW KENNETT LOCATION
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held last week to commemorate the opening of the new Three Rivers Center in Kennett.
The new 17,000 square foot Center replaces the 10,000 square foot space that previously housed the Center at Kennett.
The new facility includes the nursing classroom and skills lab for Three Rivers’ Practical Nursing program, plus three master classrooms, a dedicated ITV classroom, two full computer labs, two state-of-the-art science labs, and a Public Computing Center.
The ribbon cutting ceremony was held April 24th and featured speakers such as Dr. Devin Stephenson, President of Three Rivers College and Jay Crafton, the Mayor of Kennett.
WARDELL TO RECEIVE $500,000 GRANT
The city of Wardell has been approved for a grant for half a million dollars.
According to the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the $500,000 Community Development Block Grant will go to assist Wardell in replacing its water system, along with constructing a new well house.
HAZARDOUS MOVING OPERATION TO BE HELD IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI
The Missouri State Highway Patrol will be conducting a Hazardous Moving Operation next month in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies.
The operation will be held throughout the Troop E area in Southeast Missouri in May. A hazardous moving operation is designed to target vehicles that are being operated in a hazardous manner.
BRIDGE REPAIRS BEGINNING TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY
Route TT in Butler County will be reduced to one lane for part of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.
The bridge to be repaired is located between County Roads 432 and 434.
Weather permitting, work will be performed today through Thursday, from 8 am to 4 pm daily.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY
Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Stoddard County beginning today for pavement repairs.
The work zone will be located between Highway 25 and County Road 237 on Route AC. Weather permitting, work is scheduled to be done from 6 am to 5 pm daily through Thursday, May 8th.
MODOT CREWS TO BE IN RIPLEY COUNTY FOR BRIDGE REPAIRS
Route W in Ripley County will be reduced to one lane beginning today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge repairs.
Work will take place, weather permitting through Thursday, May 22nd from 7:30 am to 4 pm daily.
The work zone is located between County Road W-2 and Route AA.
STUDENT TRACKING BILL GOES TO GOVERNOR NIXON
Missouri lawmakers have given final approval to legislation that would prohibit schools from tracking students electronically.
The bill would bar school districts from requiring students to use "radio frequency identification technology" that would track or monitor their locations.
Supporters say they are not aware of instances in Missouri where the technology has been used.
House members passed the measure 90 to 56 on Monday. It passed the Senate last month 27 to 5 and goes now to Governor Jay Nixon.
GOVERNOR NIXON ADDS TO PLAN FOR MEDICAID EXPANSION
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has added a new prong to his proposal to draw down billions of dollars through a Medicaid expansion.
Nixon said Monday that he wants to use federal money to help pay health insurance costs for businesses with fewer than 150 employees. The state aid would be available only for people earning less than 138 percent of the poverty level, which is about $27,000 a year for a family of three.
The Democratic governor has dubbed his plan "Missouri Health Works." Legislative approval would be required to expand Medicaid eligibility and to authorize assistance for businesses to pay health insurance premiums.
Missouri's Republican-led Legislature has repeatedly rejected plans to expand Medicaid eligibility.
April 28, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 042814
SEVERE STORMS MOVE THROUGH SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS
Severe storms moved through the area Sunday and overnight, which included tornado warnings.
Multiple tornado warnings were issued overnight for Northeast Arkansas and the Missouri Bootheel.
Flash flooding was also reported with roads underwater across Southeast Missouri. Water rescues were reported in Butler County.
Wind Damage was reported at a Cape Girardeau County RV Park. At least 7 RV’s were damaged, and one of them rolled approximately 25 yards. A pole barn next to the RV Park was also destroyed.
For information on road conditions in Southeast Missouri, go online to the Missouri Department of Transportation’s Traveler’s Information Map at traveler.modot.org.
WOMAN RAN OVER BY VEHICLE AND KILLED IN CRAIGHEAD COUNTY
Craighead County sheriff's deputies are investigating the death of a Monette woman who was found apparently run over by a vehicle near her home.
The Jonesboro Sun reports the body of 43 year old Sandra Ramsey Platz was found Thursday night.
Deputies said they're trying to determine whether Platz was intentionally killed or if her death was accidental.
BODY DISCOVERED IN MISSISSIPPI RIVER
A body found in the Mississippi River in northeast Arkansas is believed to be that of one of two men who vanished earlier this month after a barge sank.
The Blytheville Courier News reported Friday that a body was spotted in the Mississippi River three miles north of Barfield, which is near a terminal where the vessel carrying steel coil sank about two weeks ago.
The body has been sent to the state's crime lab for final identification, but investigator Robb Rounsavall says it's one of the two victims - Juan Nieves and Nicolas Perez - since a wallet was found on the body.
The body's identity hasn't been released, because next of kin hasn't been contacted and a confirmation hasn't been made through an autopsy or coroner's report.
POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE
A Poplar Bluff woman is facing a felony meth charge following her arrest on Friday.
According to the authorities, 31 year old Etha M. Link was taken into custody Friday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine.
Link is also facing charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of under 35 grams of marijuana.
MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE
Authorities arrested a Poplar Bluff man Sunday afternoon on a felony drug charge.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 54 year old Randall G. McAbee was taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine. McAbee is also charged with misdemeanor possession of drug paraphernalia.
THREE ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON METH CHARGE
Three men were taken into custody over the weekend in Stoddard County on a meth charge.
According to the Highway Patrol, 36 year old Buddy L. Lacey and 31 year old Robert A. Greenup, both of Poplar Bluff, along with 29 year old Robert L. Clark, of Puxico, are each facing felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
The men were arrested shortly before 11 pm Saturday.
DONIPHAN MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY
A Doniphan man is facing multiple charges of possession of a controlled substance in connection with his arrest Friday afternoon in Butler County.
According to the Highway Patrol, 31 year old Kelly J. Kellas is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for hydrocodone, oxycodone, and methamphetamine. Kellas was also charged with felony possession of drug paraphernalia and misdemeanor tampering with evidence.
NEBRASKA MAN WANTED IN ORGEGON COUNTY IN CUSTODY
A Nebraska man who stole a police vehicle last week has been captured in Oregon County.
Authorities say 26 year old Jeffery Wegener was taken into custody early Friday morning.
Officers had been looking for Wegener since he allegedly stole a squad truck outside an Oregon County convenience store and drove it into the Eleven Point River.
It was thought that Wegener had left Oregon County and was possibly in Ripley County, however, he was spotted and later arrested in the woods about 10 miles east of Alton on Highway 160.
FIVE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR EAST PRAIRIE
Five people were seriously injured in a wreck Saturday evening near East Prairie.
According to the Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when a vehicle driven by 45 year old Adle G. Clark, of East Prairie, ran off of Missouri Highway 102 and struck a tree.
Clark suffered serious injuries as did four children in the vehicle, ages 3 to 6. Only one of the children was reportedly wearing a safety device according to the Highway Patrol crash report.
COMMON CORE TO BE DISCUSSED BY MISSOURI LAWMAKERS
Some lawmakers hope to make Missouri the second state to drop new education benchmarks and write its own student performance standards.
Legislation scheduled for debate on the Senate floor would form a panel to develop goals to replace the Common Core State Standards. The bill previously passed the House.
Under the bill, workgroups composed of parents and educators would recommend standards for English, math, science and history to the State Board of Education in 2015. Those standards would then be implemented by the 2016-2017 academic year.
Earlier this year, Indiana became the first state to dump Common Core after initially adopting the standards. More than 40 other states have also adopted the benchmarks for reading, writing and math.
April 25, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 042514
MURDER SUSPECT ARRESTED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS
A Texas murder suspect has been taken into custody in Northeast Arkansas.
According to authorities, 54 year old Danny Mitchell Cannon, from Clyde, Texas, was taken into custody Wednesday evening in Strawberry.
Cannon reportedly has a warrant for first degree felony murder for the shooting death of 51 year old Brenda Ruth Holland in Baird, Texas.
MAN KILLED IN CONFRONTATION WITH POLICE
Authorities say a Walnut Ridge police officer fatally shot a man after the man shot a woman and then pointed his gun at police.
Walnut Ridge Police Chief Richy Thatcher says the man intentionally crashed his vehicle into the woman’s car early Wednesday. Thatcher says the man then shot the woman with a handgun.
Two Walnut Ridge officers who responded ordered the man to drop his weapon. Thatcher says the man then shot himself in the side then turned with his gun facing the officers. One officer opened fire, killing the man.
The police chief says the woman was taken to a Memphis, Tennessee, hospital, where she is in stable condition.
The man has been identified as Elijah Waltman, of Delaplaine. Thatcher says the officers involved in the incident are on paid administrative leave.
NAYLOR MAN CHARGED WITH POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY
A man facing a statutory rape charge is now facing child pornography charges.
According to the Daily American Republic, 25 year old Billy Joe Wertenberger, of Naylor, was arrested this week on 10 counts of possessing child pornography.
Wertenberger is already facing a statutory rape charge for an incident involving a 13 year old girl. The child pornography charges come from images allegedly found during the statutory rape investigation.
ARKANSAS PROSECUTOR OBJECTS TO CLEMENCY RECOMMENDATION
A prosecutor in Northeast Arkansas has filed an objection to a recent recommendation by the Arkansas Parole Board.
The board recommended that convicted killer Denver Mitchell be released from prison on executive clemency. Mitchell was convicted of first-degree murder by Greene County jurors for the 1990 slaying and beating of Willard Williamson in Paragould and was sentenced to life in prison.
Greene County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Kimberly Dale has asked Arkansas governor Mike Beebe to deny the parole board’s recommendation.
ART FOR ANIMALS CLOSING RECEPTION IS TONIGHT
The Animal Welfare Alliance will be holding the closing reception for this year’s “Art for Animals” benefit tonight.
The free reception will be held from 5 to 7 pm at Artfully Framed in the Bluff Estates Shopping Center. Final bidding will take place on the art pieces tonight and there will also be prizes given out.
Proceeds from the event will go to the Animal Welfare Alliance. Pictures of the paintings up for auction are available online at facebook.com/artfullyframed.
35TH ANNUAL MERCHANTS SHOWCASE TO BE HELD SATURDAY
The 35th annual Merchant Showcase will be held tomorrow at Three Rivers College.
The Merchant Showcase gives local businesses and vendors an opportunity to showcase their services to the public. Participating businesses will have booths set up in the Bess Activity Center for giveaways, demonstrations, contests, and more.
There will also be the opportunity for visitors to win one of four cash giveaways. The Merchant Showcase will be held from 10 am to 3 pm on April 26th. Admission is $1. Children, five years old and younger get in for free.
CRIMINAL CODE OVERHAUL APPROVED BY MISSOURI LEGISLATORS
Missouri lawmakers gave final approval to the first comprehensive rewrite of the state's criminal laws in decades.
The House and Senate voted Thursday to send the legislation to Governor Jay Nixon's desk. The measure would create new classes of felonies and misdemeanors, and reorganize crimes to fit the new penalty structure.
It also reduces the punishment for people convicted of possessing less than 10 grams of marijuana on their first offense and lengthens prison sentences for criminals who sexually abuse children.
Nixon has previously expressed reservations that the bill would do too much at one time. The overhaul passed with enough votes in both chambers to override a potential veto. Because of the vote's timing, Nixon would have to act before lawmakers adjourn in mid-May.
SENATE APPROVES COUNTY HEALTH REGISTRIES
County officials could compile lists of residents with health problems under a Missouri bill intended to identify people in need of help during disasters.
The bill given final approval Thursday by the Senate allows the creation of voluntary registries of people with "health-related ailments" who may need assistance in emergencies. The House passed the bill earlier, so it now goes to Governor Jay Nixon.
The identities of people on the list would be exempt from disclosure under Missouri's open-records law. But an incident report would be made public if any of the people are involved in a disaster or emergency.
April 24, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 042414
ASSAULT REPORTED AT NURSING CENTER
Authorities in Steele say that an assault was reported last week at an area nursing center.
According to the Steele Police Department, early April 14th Steele Police responded to the River Oaks Nursing Center in reference to a 911 call stating that two men entered the building, one being armed with a gun.
One nurse was reportedly assaulted and suffered a minor injury. A motive is unclear, but authorities say the suspects may have been after narcotics.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Steele Police Department.
FORMER TEACHER CONVICTED OF SEXUAL ASSAULT OF A STUDENT
A Poinsett County jury has convicted a former teacher on charges of first degree sexual assault and fourth degree sexual assault.
According to Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington, 40 year old Danny Shane Akers, of Trumann, was convicted of sexually assaulting a then 15 year old student and fathering her child.
Akers was sentenced to 25 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections and a $25,000 fine.
MISSING MAN FOUND IN NEW MADRID
A Caraway man who went missing earlier this week has been found.
According to KAIT, 81 year old Donald E. Ashley was found safe in New Madrid.
A silver alert was issued for Ashley by the Caraway Police Department on Tuesday.
MODOT ADVISING MOTORISTS TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR FARMING EQUIPMENT
The Missouri Department of Transportation wants motorists to be on the lookout for farm equipment.
Planting season is underway and tractors, trucks, and other farm equipment will be using and crossing state highways. Motorists are advised to slow down when they see farm equipment on the highway and to wait until it is safe before attempting to pass.
According to MoDOT, state roadways pass alongside more than 100,000 farms throughout the state.
HIGHWAY PATROL TO PARTICIPATE IN OPERATION LIFESAVER
The Missouri State Highway Patrol is joining with local volunteers to spread information on railroad safety.
According to Captain George Ridens, on April 28th and 29th, Troop E officers will be working with Missouri Operation Lifesaver volunteers in Butler and Scott counties to raise the awareness level for railroad crossing safety and trespass prevention.
Troopers will be part of safety teams that visit with motorists briefly in advance of certain railroad crossings. Team members will be reminding drivers about railroad safety tips as they approach crossings throughout the counties.
MISSOURI REDUCES ENERGY USE BY OVER 22 PERCENT
Governor Jay Nixon's administration says it has exceeded a goal to reduce Missouri's energy consumption.
Nixon signed an executive order in 2009 setting a target of a 2 percent annual reduction in state energy use for each of the next 10 years for state buildings under the direction of the Office of Administration.
The administration office says Missouri already has reduced its energy use by 22.5 percent, which it says equals an annualized decline of 4.45 percent.
The office says those figures include a greater than 16 percent reduction in electricity use since 2008 and a nearly 33 percent reduction in propane and natural gas use since that time.
BILL WOULD ALLOW SOME MOTORCYCLISTS TO FORGO WEARING HELMETS
The Missouri House has endorsed a bill that would allow motorcyclists over the age of 21 to forgo wearing helmets while travelling on the road.
Current law requires motorists to wear helmets or face a fine of up to $25 for each offense.
Supporters say adults should have the freedom to decide whether to wear a helmet and argue Missouri misses out on tourism because of the current law. Opponents say the helmet law protects riders during accidents and that the measure would cost the state in higher medical bills.
The measure given first-round approval Wednesday needs one more vote before moving to the Senate. Lawmakers adjourn May 16th.
SPENDING BILL SIGNED BY MISSOURI GOVERNOR
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has signed a mid-year spending bill with funding for social services, education and a financially troubled St. Louis County school district.
The supplemental budget signed into law Wednesday moves $69 million to the state Medicaid program to offset a shortfall in Missouri's settlement payments from tobacco companies. It also includes an extra $3 million to help low-income people pay utility bills, and $2 million to help the unaccredited Normandy School District.
The measure also provides additional funding for public schools and colleges through June 30 to make up for shortfalls in gambling and lottery revenues.
Nixon froze $22 million budgeted for schools and colleges earlier this month, saying lawmakers had not included enough money in the supplemental budget.
April 23, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 042314
SILVER ALERT ISSUED FOR MISSING CARAWAY MAN
Authorities in Caraway, Arkansas, have requested activation of a Silver alert for an elderly man who went missing on Tuesday.
According to the Arkansas State Police, 81 year old Donald E. Ashley was last known to be at 307 Lynn Street in Caraway. Ashley is described as a white male, 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing 200 pounds with brown eyes.
Authorities say he may be travelling in a 1998 White Ford Ranger with a black tool box in the back. Anyone with information about Ashley’s whereabouts should contact Caraway Police at 870-482-3434.
A picture of Ashley is available on the KWOC Facebook page.
FATALITY REPORTED IN JONESBORO FIRE
A fire at an apartment complex Tuesday has resulted in one death.
According to authorities, the fire was at Aspen Gardens in Jonesboro.
The identity of the person who died has not yet been made available.
TEENAGER IN CUSTODY FOR FIRING SHOTS IN CAPE
A teenager has been taken into custody in connection with a weekend shooting incident in Cape Girardeau.
Authorities say they were called to a location on South Frederick Street Saturday night in reference to shots being fired. Witnesses told officers that a gray vehicle had driven by and that a juvenile inside the vehicle had fired several shots.
Investigators located the vehicle and a 16 year old male who matched the description given by witnesses.
Officials say the teen has been turned over to juvenile authorities, who will decide what charges the boy will face.
ST. LOUIS MAN ARRESTED IN SCOTT COUNTY FOR DRIVING OVER 110 MPH
A St. Louis man was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon after allegedly driving over 110 miles per hour.
According to the Highway Patrol, 24 year old Devlin M. Gandy was arrested in Scott County on charges of speeding, 112 miles per hour in a 70 miles per hour zone and driving while revoked.
NEW MAYOR ELECTED FOR POPLAR BLUFF
Poplar Bluff has a new mayor.
Angela Pearson has been elected mayor of Poplar Bluff by the Poplar Bluff City Council. Councilman Ed DeGaris had previously held the spot.
In a post on her Facebook page, Pearson wrote, “My dreams for Poplar Bluff include prosperity for all, working together as a community, continued growth, revitalizing our downtown area and areas that have been left out in the past and much more.”
New council member Jack Rushin was chosen for Mayor Pro Tem. The positions of mayor and mayor pro tem are chosen each year by the city council.
EMERGENCY DISINFECTION TO BEGIN TODAY FOR WATER DISTRICT #2 IN DUNKLIN COUNTY
Water District #2 customers in Dunklin County are under a boil water order due to an emergency disinfection that is set to begin this afternoon.
According to KFVS, the disinfection comes after authorities found Chironomidae larvae in the water system and compromised water storage tanks. The report says that no known human illnesses are associated with exposure to the larvae.
The boil water order will remain in place until the water quality has been restored.
SENATE COMMITTEE SCALES BACK PLAN CONCERNING COLLEGE TUITIONS
A Missouri Senate committee has scaled back a state budget provision that sought to prohibit public colleges and universities from offering in-state tuition rates to students living in the country illegally.
The Senate Appropriations Committee's plan would bar institutions from "knowingly" offer discounted tuition to such students. The committee resolved the final sticking points Tuesday in crafting its budget proposal for the next fiscal year.
Committee Chairman Kurt Schaefer, of Columbia, says universities don't have the means to investigate whether students are lawful residents. The House included the overall ban in its budget proposal after a St. Louis Community College decided to offer cheaper tuition rates for those students.
The Senate language would bar colleges from actively recruiting students from other countries to attend Missouri schools at lower rates.
GOVERNOR NIXON SPEAKS ABOUT TAX CUT LEGISLATION
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is raising new concerns that an income tax cut passed by the Legislature could have "cataclysmic" consequences for state revenues.
The Democratic governor said Tuesday that the bill could eliminate taxes on all income over $9,000, punching a $4.8 billion hole in the state budget.
Republican legislative leaders called Nixon's assertion "ridiculous," ''absurd" and "laughable."
Nixon did not veto the bill Tuesday but has indicated he will do so.
House Majority Leader John Diehl said Tuesday that lawmakers will attempt to override the veto before their session ends May 16.
An override requires a two-thirds vote in both chambers. That means Republicans would have to vote in block and pick up the support of at least one House Democrat.
CANNABIS EXTRACT BILL GIVEN FIRST APPROVAL BY MISSOURI HOUSE
The Missouri House has endorsed legislation allowing use of a cannabis extract by people whose epilepsy is not relieved by other treatments.
The bill would permit use of "hemp extract" with little of the substance that makes marijuana users feel high and greater amounts of a chemical called cannabidiol, or CBD. Patients would need to have epilepsy that a neurologist has determined is not responding to at least three treatment options. Patients or their parents would need a state-issued registration card.
Growers would have to be nonprofit organizations and have a license from the Missouri Department of Agriculture.
House members gave the measure first-round approval Tuesday by voice vote. It needs another affirmative vote to move to the Senate.
April 22, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 042214
CAPITAL MURDER TRIAL DELAYED UNTIL SEPTEMBER
The murder trial of a Jonesboro woman in the shooting death of her husband is being delayed until September.
The capital murder trial of 34 year old Michelle Despain was rescheduled from the first week of May until September 8th - but a lengthy investigative report of more than 3,000 pages led her attorneys to ask for the delay.
Despain has pleaded not guilty to being part of a plot in the August 24th, 2011, shooting death of Marc Despain inside the couple's home.
Michelle Despain's father and another man have pleaded guilty to first degree murder in the case and were sentenced to prison. A third man pleaded guilty to hindering apprehension and was also sentenced to prison.
AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR NEBRASKA MAN IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI
Authorities in Southeast Missouri are searching for a Nebraska man who stole an Oregon County squad vehicle.
According to KFVS, 26 year old Jeffery Wegener allegedly took the vehicle Sunday night following an incident in Myrtle. The vehicle was reportedly driven into the Eleven Point River.
Wegener was last seen near the Ripley County line early Monday. Ripley County authorities are advising residents to alert police if they see Wegener and to also make sure your home and vehicles are locked.
STEELE TEENAGER ARRESTED ON FELONY CHARGE
A Steele teenager is facing a felony charge after her arrest on Sunday in Pemiscot County.
According to the Highway Patrol, 18 year old Adriana L. Nelson was taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance.
GAS LEAK REPORTED IN POPLAR BLUFF
A minor gasoline leak was reported yesterday in Poplar Bluff.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the leak was located on the north end of town in the Oak Grove/James Boulevard area.
The leak was found to be only in the sewer drain water. Multiple agencies, including the Department of Natural Resources and the Poplar Bluff Fire Department, were called on to fix the problem.
PRESCRIPTION DRUG TAKE BACK DAY IS THIS WEEKEND
The 8th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is coming up this weekend.
The event will be held this Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm and multiple area law enforcement agencies will be participating.
The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.
MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK IN RIPLEY COUNTY
Staff members of U.S. Senator Roy Blunt will be hosting a Mobile Office next week in Ripley County.
Mobile Offices are opportunities for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.
The mobile office will be held on Tuesday, April 29th from 10 am to 11 am at the Ripley County Courthouse in Doniphan.
STATE SENATOR SEEKS ATTORNEY GENERAL’S OPINION ON NULLIFICATION BILL
A Republican state senator wants to know the opinion of Missouri's top law enforcement official on legislation that seeks to nullify some federal gun laws.
Senator Will Kraus, of Lee's Summit, sent a letter to Attorney General Chris Koster's office on Monday asking him to weigh in on the bill's constitutionality. The measure would declare "null and void" past, present and future laws deemed to be infringements on gun rights.
A spokesman for Koster confirmed the office received the request, but didn't comment further. The Democratic attorney general raised concerns about a similar bill last year that he said would have hurt cooperation among law enforcement agencies.
Both the House and Senate have passed the separate versions of the measure this year. Kraus voted in favor of the Senate bill.
CHANGES TO BRIGHT FLIGHT PROGRAM UNDER CONSIDERATION BY MISSOURI LAWMAKERS
Missouri lawmakers are debating an expansion of a college scholarship for top students that is designed to keep more of them in the state after graduation.
A proposal under consideration would add a forgivable loan component to the Bright Flight program. Each year a student works in Missouri after school would count toward one year of loan forgiveness. Leaving before the loan is repaid would require repaying the loan with interest.
Money for the new program was included in the House budget plan, but the Senate Appropriations Committee is scheduled this week to consider whether the funding should remain. Lawmakers have until May 9th to pass all budget bills.
Legislation to enact the loan program was passed by the House and debated in the Senate last week.
April 21, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 042114
AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATE CHARLESTON MAN’S DEATH
Authorities in Charleston are investigating the death of an area man.
According to the Charleston Department of Public Safety, at about 3 pm on Friday, the agency began receiving 911 calls of shots fired on North Elm Street, near Mark Twain Park. Responding officers found a male gunshot victim inside a vehicle at the intersection of Elm and Lafayette Streets.
The victim, 44 year old Anthony Fisher, of Charleston, was taken to an area hospital where he later died.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Charleston DPS at 573-683-3737.
TWO PUXICO RESIDENTS ARRESTED FRIDAY NIGHT
Two Puxico residents were arrested Friday night on multiple felony charges.
According to the Highway Patrol, 32 year old Rebecca L. Burkman and 29 year old Dale E. Burkman, were each arrested on felony charges of possession of precursors with intent to distribute, tampering with physical evidence, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
SIKESTON MAN FACING COCAINE CHARGE
A Sikeston man was arrested Friday night on felony drug charges for cocaine and marijuana.
According to an arrest report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Christopher J. Hicks-Berry was arrested in Mississippi County on felony charges of resisting arrest by fleeing, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute.
He was also charged with driving while suspended, speeding, and failure to drive on the right half of the roadway.
ILLINOIS MAN ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES
An Illinois man was taken into custody over the weekend in Wayne County on multiple drug related charges.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 24 year old Joseph J. Prislin, of Columbia, Illinois, was arrested shortly after 2 pm Saturday afternoon.
Prislin is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, Xanax and possession of a controlled substance, Hydrocodone.
He has also been charged with misdemeanor boating while intoxicated, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
CURFEW IMPLEMENTED FOR WEST END OF CHARLESTON
Recent violence has caused Charleston officials to implement a curfew.
According to a post made Saturday on the Charleston Department of Public Safety Facebook page, the city council has made an emergency declaration implementing a curfew for the west end of Charleston from 11 pm until 6 am.
PEPSI FRANCHISE TO BUILD CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTER IN CAPE GIRARDEAU
A Pepsi franchise is planning to build a new customer service center in Cape Girardeau that could create 74 jobs.
The Missouri Department of Economic Development said Friday that Pepsi MidAmerica would complete the $3.1 million project.
The state is offering incentives of up to $1.3 million through community development block grants and the enhanced enterprise zone program.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS SET FOR THIS WEEK ON I-55 IN PEMISCOT COUNTY
Northbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.
The work zone is located between mile markers 17.4 and 18.4.
Weather permitting, work will take place today through Wednesday, from 6:30 am to 5 pm each day.
INTERSTATE 155 TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS
Northbound I-155 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane this week for pavement repairs.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, work is scheduled to take place from 6:30 am to 5 pm daily through Wednesday.
The work zone will be located between the 5.2 mile marker and the 6.2 mile marker.
PRESCHOOL PROPOSAL PASSED BY MISSOURI HOUSE
Missouri lawmakers are moving to put more support in preschool and early childhood programs.
House members this past week passed legislation that would allow public schools to begin counting some children attending early childhood education programs toward the basic state funding they receive. The measure is heading to the Senate where lawmakers have debated their own proposal.
Under the House measure, districts could count preschool students eligible for free and reduced price lunch. Unaccredited districts would have the option next school year, and those that are provisionally accredited could start in 2015-2016.
Accredited districts would need to wait until Missouri's school formula is fully funded.
Supporters say preschool can prevent children from falling behind early.
ARKANSAS UNEMPLOYMENT RATE UNDER 7 PERCENT FOR THE FIRST TIME IN OVER 5 YEARS
State officials say Arkansas' unemployment rate has dropped below 7 percent for the first time in more than five years.
The Arkansas Department of Workforce Services says the state's unemployment rate dropped to 6.9 percent in March, down from 7.1 percent in February. Agency spokeswoman Becky Heflin says it's the first time Arkansas' jobless rate has been below 7 percent since January 2009.
All major industry sectors posted gains in March. Jobs in leisure and hospitality rose by 3,200, while employment in trade, transportation and utilities increased by 3,000.
Construction added 1,900 jobs and government employment increased by 1,200.
The national unemployment rate was 6.7 percent in March.
April 18, 2014
ONE KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN PEMISCOT COUNTY
A Hayti man has died following a single vehicle wreck Thursday afternoon in Pemiscot County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 59 year old Robert K. Lenox, was driving a vehicle on Route J, near Hayti, when he ran off the side of the road and hit a concrete culvert.
Lenox was later pronounced dead at an area hospital.
THREE FACING MURDER CHARGE IN CONNECTION TO PEMISCOT COUNTY MAN’S DEATH
Three men are facing a murder charge for the death of 60 year old Roy Jerrolds.
According to KFVS, 28 year old Gunner Lee Pind and 17 year old Kevin Slayton, both of Portageville, along with 18 year old Cody LeGrand, of Hayward, have each been charged with first degree murder, armed criminal action, first degree burglary, and second degree arson.
On April 10th, Jerrolds was found dead with gunshot wounds inside a burning home in Pemiscot County.
POPLAR BLUFF POLICE WARNING OF POSSIBLE FRAUD
The Poplar Bluff Police Department has put out a fraud alert after receiving reports of a phone scam.
Captain David Sutton, with the Police Department, tells us that they has received reports of a scam in which the suspect called intended victims, told them they had unpaid parking tickets, and asked for payment over the phone.
The suspect addressed the victim by name, and threatened to send Police Officers to arrest the victim if they refused. The suspect also apparently has the ability to make caller ID display a false number.
Captain Sutton says that the Police Department never solicits fine payments by phone, mail, email, or fax. Anyone who receives a call like this is advised to hang up and alert law enforcement.
TWO ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGE
Two people were arrested Thursday afternoon in Butler County on felony drug related charges.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Basil W. Foster, of Ellsinore, and 25 year old Heather D. Jarrell, of Dexter, were each arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute – methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.
RIBBON CUTTING TO BE HELD FOR NEW THREE RIVERS CENTER IN KENNETT
Three Rivers College has scheduled a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new location of its center in Kennett.
The ceremony will be held on Thursday, April 24th at 11 am at the new building on Great West Drive. Refreshments will be served at the open house event following the ceremony.
The new facility includes three master classrooms, a dedicated ITV classroom, two full computer labs, and two state-of-the-art science labs in addition to a dedicated nursing classroom and skills lab.
MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR THIS MONTH IN ALTON
U.S. Senator Roy Blunt’s staff will host a Mobile Office this month in Oregon County.
The Mobile Office will be held on Tuesday, April 29th from 1 pm to 2 pm at the Oregon County Courthouse in Alton.
Mobile Offices are opportunities for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.
RURAL MAINSTREET INDEX UP OVER LAST MONTH
The overall index for an economic survey of bankers in 10 Midwestern and Plains states has risen for a second consecutive month, suggesting more growth in the months ahead.
The Rural Mainstreet Index hit 53.2 in April, compared with 50.1 in March.
The survey indexes range from 0 to 100, with 50 representing growth neutral. A score above 50 suggests growth in the months ahead.
Creighton University economist Ernie Goss oversees the survey, and he says the results indicate that areas highly dependent on agriculture and energy are experiencing slower growth than they were a year ago. But he says recent increases in commodity prices should boost the economy in the months ahead.
Bankers from 10 states, including Missouri and Illinois, were surveyed.
EARLY VOTING BILL APPROVED BY MISSOURI HOUSE
Missouri House members have approved a pair of measures allowing early voting, though some lawmakers contend it would be too limited.
On Thursday, the House approved a constitutional amendment and companion legislation, each by a vote of 126-24. The measures would allow early voting for nine days, with polls to be open from 8 am to 5 pm on weekdays and four hours on Saturday. There would be no early voting on Sunday.
An initiative petition also has been proposed that could appear on this fall's ballot. It would allow early voting for six weeks, including weekends for the final 21 days before an election.
Some Democratic opponents say the House proposal is too limited and called it a distraction from the initiative petition.
MISSOURI LAWMAKERS PASS ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES BILLS
The Missouri House and Senate have each passed bills that would prevent people younger than 18 from purchasing electronic cigarettes.
But the legislation passed on Thursday would also exempt those products from the state's tobacco taxes, which opponents say would allow the nicotine products to be sold with fewer restrictions.
Supporters say taxing the products would prevent the measure from passing the Republican-led Legislature. They argued that failing to pass a bill would mean children could continue buying the e-cigarettes.
E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices used to heat a liquid nicotine solution and create vapor that is inhaled.
The House voted 129 to 19 to send its bill to the Senate, where senators voted 27 to 4 in favor of their version. Both chambers must pass identical legislation by mid-May.
April 17, 2014
POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES
A Poplar Bluff man is facing multiple drug related felonies along with a firearm charge following his arrest Wednesday night.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Dale D. Fry was taken into custody shortly before 8 pm in Wayne County.
Fry is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, possession of a controlled substance – hydrocodone, possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
Fry is also facing a charge of unlawful possession of a firearm.
DOCTOR ACCUSED OF TAKING NUDE PHOTOS OF PATIENTS ARRESTED
A Paragould doctor has been arrested on charges of video voyeurism.
According to KAIT, 68 year old Paul Becton Jr., of Paragould, was taken into custody Wednesday in Newport.
A warrant was issued earlier this week for Becton’s arrest.
Authorities reportedly found numerous pictures of nude women on a cell phone that was taken from Becton during a search.
The warrant says that the pictures appeared to have been taken in a medical office during examinations. The search was prompted after a woman told police that she became suspicious after an examination that she may have been photographed.
BICYCLE TRAIL NEAR POPLAR BLUFF CLOSED TO TARGET SHOOTING
A bicycle trail near Poplar Bluff has been closed to all recreational shooting and target practice.
According to the Mark Twain National Forrest, the order is for the Wolf Creek Bicycle Trail area north of Poplar Bluff and is effective immediately to address public safety concerns.
A map of the affected area is available at the Poplar Bluff Ranger District Office on Maud Street.
ALLEY SPRING TO HOST JUNIOR RANGER DAY NEXT MONTH
Students will have a chance to learn more about nature at the National Park Service’s Junior Ranger Day on May 9th.
Local schools are invited to bring their 2nd through 5th graders to the free event at Alley Spring on Friday, May 9th starting at 10:00 am. The general public is also invited.
Schools and large groups should RSVP by calling Bill O’Donnell at 573-323-8093.
MESSIAH CONCERT TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND AT TINNIN FINE ARTS CENTER
Audience members will get to participate in a sing along concert this weekend at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.
The performance of Handel’s “Messiah” will feature soloists from Kennett, Poplar Bluff, and Williamsville. Audience members will be able to purchase a score and participate along with the music.
“Messiah” is one of the most famous and most frequently performed pieces of choral music in the world and is best known for its “Hallelujah” chorus.
The performance will begin at 7 pm on Saturday, April 19th.
ARREST MADE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY AS A PART OF ICE ROUND UP
Immigration and Customs Enforcement has arrested 24 men in Missouri and Illinois for what officials call "egregious" immigration violations, including individuals who entered the country illegally and committed crimes.
The arrests, made in a five-day roundup last week, were announced Tuesday. Arrests were made in New Madrid and St. Charles Counties in Missouri along with four counties in Illinois.
ICE says 15 of those arrested were criminals with convictions that include sexual misconduct, felonious restraint and other charges. Others arrested were fugitives with outstanding deportation orders.
ICE says 14 of the suspects are from Mexico, nine from Guatemala and one from India. An immigration judge will determine whether the suspects should be deported.
GOVERNOR NIXON BLASTS TAX CUT BILL
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is describing a tax-cut bill passed by the Legislature as a "reckless fiscal experiment."
The Democratic governor indicated Wednesday that he likely will veto the income tax cut, just as he did a similar bill passed last year by the Republican-led Legislature.
Nixon convened a news conference to denounce the legislation a mere hour after the House gave it final approval on a 104 to 48 vote.
The legislation would gradually cut Missouri's top individual income tax rate and phase in a new deduction for people who report business income on personal tax returns. The tax cuts would begin in 2017, but only if state revenues keep rising.
Nixon says the tax cuts would "drastically slash the income of our state" and harm education funding.
RENEWAL OF DRUG BENEFIT ENDORSED BY MISSOURI SENATE
The Missouri Senate has endorsed legislation to renew an expiring prescription drug benefit for over 200,000 low-income and disabled seniors.
The Missouri Rx Program is scheduled to expire in August, but the measure endorsed on Wednesday would extend the benefit until 2017.
State officials estimate more than 9 million prescription drug claims will be filed for 230,000 Missourians during the current budget year. Governor Jay Nixon has called on lawmakers to renew the program.
The bill would also allow doctors to write epinephrine prescriptions to some locations, including restaurants and amusement parks. Those places could then keep an emergency supply of the drug that treats severe allergic reactions.
It needs one more vote before moving to the House.
April 16, 2014
KELSO MAN ARRESTED ON STATUTORY RAPE AND CHILD MOLESTATION CHARGE
A Kelso man is in custody on sexual related charges.
According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, 22 year old Justin A. Williams was arrested on Monday on charges of statutory rape and child molestation.
Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter says that his office received a call Monday afternoon reporting that Williams was molesting a young female at a residence in Kelso. Williams left the residence before officers could arrive; however he was found and taken into custody a short time later.
When questioned by a detective, Williams reportedly confessed to acts of unlawful behavior with a 6 year old female. His bond was set at $50,000.
WARRANT ISSUED FOR ARREST OF PARAGOULD DOCTOR ON VIDEO VOYEURISM CHARGES
A warrant has been issued for the arrest of a Paragould OB/GYN who is accused of taking nude photos of a patient during a medical exam without her knowledge, consent or approval.
According to Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington, the warrant was issued for 68 year old Dr. Paul Becton Jr. on five counts of video voyeurism. Authorities reportedly found numerous pictures of nude women on a cell phone that was taken from Becton during a search.
The warrant says that the pictures appeared to have been taken in a medical office during examinations. The search was prompted after a woman told police that she became suspicious after an examination that she may have been photographed.
BUSINESSES PLEDGES $50,000 TOWARDS THREE RIVERS ACTIVITY CENTER
A $50,000 pledge has been finalized to go to the Three Rivers Activity Center project.
Leaders from the Three Rivers Endowment Trust and First Missouri State Bank recently met to finalize the five-year pledge for the activity center, which will be a state-of-the-art athletics center for the Three Rivers Raider and Lady Raider basketball teams.
FIVE INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY, IN REYNOLDS COUNTY WRECK
One person has serious injuries and four others were also injured in a two vehicle wreck Tuesday in Reynolds County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on Missouri Highway 21 in Centerville when a vehicle driven by 72 year old Wanda Atkins, of Centerville, allegedly crossed into the oncoming lane and hit another vehicle.
Atkins suffered moderate injuries, while a passenger in her vehicle, 81 year old Kenneth Atkins, was seriously injured. Three people in the other vehicle suffered minor injuries.
CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO ILLINOIS SHOOTING
A Cape Girardeau man is facing charges in connection to a shooting incident in Illinois.
According to the Carbondale, Illinois Police Department, 26 year old Darrion D. Jake has been charged with aggravated battery with a firearm, aggravated discharge of a firearm, and mob action.
The arrest is in connection to an incident last week where a victim was shot in the abdomen. The incident is still under investigation.
10 YEAR OLD WORLD SERIES TO BE PLAYED IN JONESBORO IN 2015
The Cal Ripken 10-year-old World Series and Jonesboro city officials have finalized plans for Jonesboro to host the 2015 series.
Babe Ruth League Commissioner Robert Faherty Jr. and Babe Ruth/Cal Ripken North Arkansas District Commissioner Gary Hoyt signed a contract Monday to bring nine regional winning teams and an all-star team from Jonesboro to play in the World Series at Joe Mack Campbell Park in August 2015.
Jonesboro's Advertising and Promotion Commission provided the tournament guarantee fee of $45,000 that is to be used for costs associated with the World Series such as travel and lodging expenses for each team.
The World Series will bring about 130 players and their families to Jonesboro - potentially thousands of people that city officials say will provide a boost to the city's economy.
SUPREME COURT RULING GIVES GREATER LEGAL PROTECTIONS TO INJURED WORKERS
The Missouri Supreme Court has overturned 30 years of precedent with a ruling that gives greater legal protections to injured workers who are fired from their jobs.
In a 5 to 2 decision, the Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that employees no longer have to prove that workers' compensation claims were the exclusive factor for their dismissal in order to win lawsuits claiming retaliation.
Instead, the court said employees must show only that workers' compensation claims were a contributing factor in their subsequent dismissal from their job.
State law does not explicitly set forth a standard of proof in such lawsuits, but the exclusive cause standard had been adopted by the state Supreme Court in 1984. Since then, all of the judges on the Supreme Court have changed.
NUMBER OF JOBS AND UNEMPLOYMENT RATE BOTH GO UP IN MISSOURI
Missouri's unemployment rate increased in March, though the size of payrolls also grew.
The Department of Economic Development reported Tuesday that the jobless rate grew to 6.7 percent from 6.4 percent last month. Employers added a net of 3,500 jobs in March.
Top gainers were the construction and education and health services. Construction jobs grew by 2,000 and education and health services grew by 1,600. On the other hand, the leisure and hospitality sector declined by 1,900 jobs.
Missouri's civilian labor force of about 3 million people grew by 8,450 during March. The labor force counts people with jobs and those who are on unemployment but looking for work.
April 14, 2014
THREE REPORTED DEAD IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN PEMISCOT COUNTY
Three men are dead following a single vehicle wreck Saturday in Pemiscot County.
According to the Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on Highway B at Homestown when a vehicle driven by 30 year old David M. Six, of Bragg City, ran off the side of the road, struck a culvert, and overturned.
Six, along with passengers 29 year old Jason L. Phillips, of Caruthersville, and 57 year old David M. Six, of Portageville were ejected from the vehicle. Two of the men were pronounced dead at the scene, while the third was pronounced dead at an area hospital.
AREA BUSINESS PLEDGES $100,000 TO THREE RIVERS ENDOWMENT TRUST
Leaders from the Three Rivers Endowment trust and Southern Bank recently met to finalize a five year, $100,000 pledge.
Officials from Three Rivers College say that half of the pledge will go to the Humanities and Social Science Classroom Building that is currently under construction at the Poplar Bluff TRC campus.
The other half will go to the area of greatest need.
FIRE LEADS TO HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION IN PEMISCOT COUNTY
A homicide investigation is under way after one man was found dead last week.
According to authorities, 60 year old Roy Jerrolds was found dead in a Pemiscot County home that was on fire. He had reportedly been shot.
An autopsy was performed on Friday.
MAN ARRESTED IN CARTER COUNTY ON METH CHARGE
A Birch Tree man is facing drug related charges after his arrest Saturday afternoon in Carter County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 45 year old Sean M. Felt was arrested at around 4 pm Saturday on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.
ONE ARRESTED ON METH AND RESISTING ARREST CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY
Authorities arrested a Poplar Bluff man over the weekend on multiple felony charges.
According to the Highway Patrol, 31 year old Edward A. Goodwin is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and resisting arrest.
Goodwin is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and driving while suspended.
THREAT FOUND IN TWIN RIVERS HIGH SCHOOL BATHROOM
Officials at Twin Rivers High School reportedly found a threat in a school bathroom last week.
According to the Daily American Republic, the threat to “shoot everybody on 4-11” was discovered Thursday on a bathroom stall.
A student confessed to writing the threat and was suspended. A school official said the student was upset and remorseful.
TOMORROW IS TAX DEADLINE DAY
April 15th is the deadline to file state tax returns and the Missouri Department of Revenue has released a few tips for those who have waited to the last minute.
The Department of Revenue advises everyone to file electronically if possible. If you are not going to be able to meet the April 15th deadline, you might be able to file for an extension.
Anyone who receives an extension to file their federal income tax returns will automatically be granted an extension to file the Missouri income tax return. However filing an extension does not extend the time to pay taxes that are due.
If you have any questions, call 573-751-3505 from 8 am to 5 pm.
ADDITIONAL PENALTIES FOR CHILD CRIMES INCLUDED IN CRIMINAL CODE BILL
Legislation to reorganize Missouri's criminal laws also would give longer prison stints to people who sexually abuse or abandon children.
Under the bill, incest would carry additional jail time in child sex crimes. Parents who leave their children without proper care could also spend a decade more in jail if a child dies or is seriously injured.
The main focus of the legislation is the creation of additional classes of felonies and misdemeanors. But a child advocate says the increased punishments for crimes against children will have an impact on their lives.
The House and Senate passed the criminal code overhaul this week and must work out differences to pass an identical bill by May 16, when the session adjourns.
MULTIPLE VOTING PROPOSALS COULD BE PUT BEFORE MISSOURI VOTERS
Missouri lawmakers are advancing an early voting measure that could overlap with an initiative petition tackling the issue.
The competing proposals set up a scenario in which Missouri voters could endorse two early voting periods but see only one become law. Missouri law states that if conflicting constitutional amendments are approved at the same time, the measure that gets the largest affirmative vote takes effect.
The initiative petition would allow early voting for six weeks and require officials to accommodate early voting on Saturday and Sunday for the final 21 days before federal or state elections. The proposal in the Legislature calls for nine days of early voting and depends upon lawmakers approving funding.
TAX CUTS APPROVED BY SENATE AND HOUSE COMMITTEES
Missouri's Republican lawmakers are advancing a pair of tax cut proposals for potential debate in the coming weeks.
A House committee on Thursday endorsed legislation already passed by the Senate that would cut income tax rates for individuals and some business owners. That proposal is projected by legislative researchers to reduce state revenues by $620 million annually when fully phased in.
Also Thursday, a Senate committee changed and endorsed a tax cut bill that previously passed the House. As revised, that plan would cut income taxes only for businesses, not individuals. Its cost is estimated at about half the amount as the other bill.
Committee approval of the bills means they could soon be considered by the full House and Senate.
APRIL 11, 2014
SEARCH ENDED FOR MISSING MEN A search for two men who have been missing since a barge overturned earlier this week has been called off.
Officials announced Thursday that the search has been suspended. Juan Nieves and Nicolas Perez have been missing since Tuesday after falling into the Mississippi River near Blytheville.
35TH ANNUAL MERCHANT SHOWCASE SCHEDULED FOR APRIL 26TH The 35th annual Merchant Showcase will be held on April 26th at Three Rivers College.
The Merchant Showcase gives local businesses and vendors an opportunity to showcase their services to the public. Participating businesses will have booths set up in the Bess Gym for giveaways, demonstrations, contests, and more.
There will also be the opportunity for visitors to win one of four cash giveaways. The Merchant Showcase will be held from 10 am to 3 pm on April 26th. Admission is $1.
TEACHER CITED WITH MISDEMEANOR SECOND DEGREE ASSAULT IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS A Jonesboro teacher has been cited with misdemeanor second degree assault after allegedly dragging a 9 year old student to class by the ankles.
According to KAIT, 59 year old Linda Stephens has been placed on administrative leave following the incident on March 31st at the Microsociety Magnet School.
According to the report, the special needs student had been refusing to go to class and had fallen in the school’s hall. Stephens then allegedly grabbed the student’s legs and pulled him to the classroom.
GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BE HELD TO RAISE MONEY FOR THE POPLAR BLUFF PUBLIC SCHOOL FOUNDATION The Poplar Bluff Public School Foundation is sponsoring the annual Four Person Scramble Golf Classic in early May.
The tournament will be held Friday, May 2nd at the Ozark Ridge Golf Course. Proceeds from the tournament will go toward the foundation scholarship fund and other educational opportunities.
Teams and hole sponsors are needed, according to Poplar Bluff school superintendent Chris Hon. Lunch and evening meals will also be provided.
The tournament will be limited to the first 20 teams to enter. For more information, call the Poplar Bluff Superintendent office at 785-7751.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON METH AND MARIJUANA CHARGE A Poplar Bluff man is facing drug charges following his arrest Wednesday night.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 47 year old Craig E. Lee was arrested shortly after 10 pm Friday in Butler County on charges of possession of less than 35 grams of marijuana, felony possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
MACHINERY TAKEN FROM JONESBORO BUSINESS Jonesboro police are looking for more information on a piece of machinery that was reportedly stolen from an area business.
According to authorities, a 2006 Caterpillar skid steer was taken from CWC Mechanical. A portion of a chain link fence was knocked down as the machinery was taken.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call 870-935-5657.
BILL WOULD LIMIT DISCIPLINE FOR TOY GUNS Missouri students could use food, pencils or their hands to imitate a gun without penalty under legislation endorsed by the state House.
The bill advanced Wednesday would shield students from discipline of fines for "simulating a weapon while playing."
Sponsoring Republican Representative Mike Kelley, of Lamar, says he was motivated by the Maryland case of a Baltimore second-grader suspended last year for chewing a Pop-Tart into the shape of a gun.
Opponents say the legislation could allow some students to encourage violence among their peers.
The measure would allow students to be disciplined for causing bodily harm, disrupting a learning environment or creating a serious threat. It needs one more vote before moving to the Senate.
EXPANSION OF SELF DEFENSE LAW APPROVED BY MISSOURI HOUSE The Missouri House has approved legislation expanding a self-defense law against home intruders.
A so-called "castle doctrine" law approved in 2007 gives Missourians a right to defend themselves and their property. The law says that people can use deadly force to stop an intruder in a home or vehicle. There is no duty to retreat if someone enters illegally.
The measure passed by the House with a 110 to 39 vote on Thursday would extend that right to people on a property with the owner's consent. Current law applies only to the owner or tenant of a location.
The legislation now heads to the Senate.
GOVERNOR NIXON WITHHOLDING FUNDS FROM EDUCATION BUDGET Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon is withholding funds from the current fiscal year's education budget because he says lawmakers didn't approve enough money in their mid-year spending plan.
Nixon requested $44 million in January to make up for declining revenue in gambling and lottery money. But in the legislation passed this week, lawmakers only approved half that amount, saying they didn't know if all the money would be necessary.
As a result, Nixon said Thursday he is restricting $6.4 million in spending divided equally between community colleges and four-year universities, plus $15.6 million for K-12 schools. He is also calling on lawmakers to put additional money in next year's budget to make up for the shortfall.
The current fiscal year started last July and ends on June 30.
APRIL 10, 2014
17 ARRESTED DURING SIKESTON WARRANT ROUND UPSeventeen people were taken into custody Wednesday morning during a warrant round up.
According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, around 32 persons were recently indicted for mostly drug offenses and a few for property crimes and crimes against people.
During the operation yesterday morning, several teams of officers began seeking those wanted subjects; and by 10 am, 17 had been arrested.
Travis D. Williams (32 of Sikeston) - 3 COUNTS SALE CONT SUB - $50,000.00 CASH
Tyrone White (50 of Sikeston) - 2 COUNTS SALE CONT SUB PUBLIC HOUSING - $15,000.00 C/S
Angela Eckles (45 of Sikeston) - 3 COUNTS SALE NEAR SCHOOL- $35,000.00 C/S
Eric Coffer (28 of Sikeston) -SALE OF CONT SUB- $50,000.00
Katlyn Carr (18 of Sikeston) -SALE OF CONT SUB $15,000.00
Joseph Cannon (34 of Sikeston) -SALE OF CONT SUB - $50,000.00
Lacy Brown (33 of Sikeston) -SALE OF CONT SUB $5,000.00
Donald Milloway (49 of Sikeston) - BURGLARY/STEALING $15,000.00 C/S
Chelsie Trapp (25 of Sikeston) -2 COUNTS SALE CONT SUB $15,000.00 C/S
Morgan Stone (19 or Sikeston) -POSS CONT SUB/POSS DRUG PARAPHERNALIA $10,000.00 C/S
Roderick Randell (30 of Sikeston) - 3 COUNTS SALE CONT SUB $25,000.00 C/S
Isaac Patterson (36 of Sikeston) -2 COUNTS SALE CONT SUB $50,000.00 C/S
Willie Murphy (47 of Sikeston) - SALE CONT SUB NEAR SCHOOL $35,000.00 C/S
Tracey D. Moore (45 of Sikeston) - POSS WITH INTENT $15,000.00 C/S
Dario Lewis (22 of Sikeston) - SALE CONT SUB $50,000.00 C/S
Julius Jackson (33 of Sikeston) -2 COUNTS SALE CONT SUB $35,000.00 C/S
Darren Beasley (36 of Sikeston) -SALE CONT SUB $50,000.00 C/S AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR MAN MISSING SINCE SUNDAY Authorities are searching for a man in Madison County who is missing.
According to KFVS, 46 year old Kent Franklin has been missing since Sunday. Franklin is a white male, five foot, 11 inches tall, with brown hair and hazel eyes. He weighs 186 pounds. Authorities say that foul play is not suspected.
Anyone with information on Franklin’s whereabouts is asked to call 573-783-2234. EXECUTION DATE SET FOR MAN CONVICTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY MURDER The Missouri Supreme Court on Wednesday set a May execution date for convicted killer Russell Bucklew, continuing a trend of scheduling one execution per month.
Bucklew is set to die by injection at 12:01 a.m. May 21 for killing a man in Cape Girardeau County in 1996.
Bucklew's attorney, John William Simon, says he will continue efforts in the courts to halt the execution, and will seek clemency from Governor Jay Nixon.
Bucklew was convicted in the fatal shooting of Michael Sanders, a romantic rival, then abducting and raping a woman.
Missouri has executed five men since November - one each month through March. William Rousan is scheduled to be put to death April 23rd for killing a St. Francois County couple in 1993. CAREER EXPO TO BE HELD TODAY IN MALDEN A career expo will be held today in Malden by Three Rivers College.
Representatives from local employers will be on hand to talk about the opportunities available to area residents.
The expo will also offer area residents the opportunity to talk with representatives of Three Rivers’ career education programs about the benefits and career opportunities offered at Three Rivers.
The career expo will be held at the Malden Community Center from 4 to 6:30 pm. For more information, call 573-276-3529. HIGHWAY PATROL TO STEP UP DRUNK DRIVING ENFORCEMENT FOR PROM AND GRADUATION SEASON With many area schools celebrating prom and graduation over the next month and a half, the Missouri State Highway Patrol will be stepping up enforcement to stop underage drinking.
From May 1st through May 12th, Troop E officers will be joining other Missouri law enforcement agencies for a youth alcohol mobilization. During this period, officers will be stepping up enforcement efforts with a goal of removing impaired drivers from Missouri highways.
As prom and graduation season is ongoing, Missouri law enforcement want to make sure that the state’s youth are celebrating safe and sober. SENATE PANEL HEARS TESTIMONY ON DISCRIMINATION PROTECTIONS BASED ON SEXUAL ORIENTATION Missouri lawmakers are hearing the pros and cons of whether it makes good business sense to grant discrimination protections based on sexual orientation.
A Senate committee heard public testimony Wednesday on legislation adding "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" to a list of outlawed reasons for discrimination that already includes such characteristics as race, religion and disabilities.
Supporters included lobbyists for Monsanto and several Democratic officeholders, who said such policies can help businesses attract the best-qualified employees.
Opponents included lobbyists for two of Missouri's leading business associations, as well as Catholic and Baptist organizations. They said the legislation could subject businesses to a new flurry of lawsuits that may lack merit. DENTAL COVERAGE MAY BE RESTORED FOR MISSOURI MEDICAID RECIPIENTS Missouri lawmakers appear likely to restore dental coverage for hundreds of thousands of adult Medicaid recipients, nearly a decade after it was eliminated.
The Senate Appropriations Committee agreed Wednesday to include an additional $48 million of federal and state money in next year's Medicaid budget for dental care. The House previously approved the same amount, although there are differences between the two chambers on exactly how that would be spent.
Missouri lawmakers eliminated dental coverage for adult Medicaid recipients under a 2005 law that also made other cuts to the program.
More than 300,000 adult Medicaid recipients could benefit from the proposed restoration of dental care.
Children already receive dental coverage under Missouri's Medicaid program.
Some of the money in the Senate plan would increase Medicaid rates paid to dentists. PIPE REPLACEMENT TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Highway 162 in New Madrid County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a pipe under roadway.
The work zone will be located located between Highway 153 and County Road 280.
Work is scheduled to be performed today from 8 am to 2 pm.
APRIL 9, 2014
POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL TO HAVE THREE NEW MEMBERSThere will be three new members of the Poplar Bluff City Council.
According to the Butler County Clerk’s website, both Jack Rushin and David Johnson were elected to the two at large seats in the Poplar Bluff City Council over Ron Black and incumbent Susan McVey. The other at large seat had been occupied by Loyd Matthews, who passed away in January.
For the Ward 5 seat, Peter Tinsley defeated incumbent Robert Louis Smith by 27 votes.
In other contested city races in Butler County, Glen Sedrick was elected Qulin mayor and Cheryl Johnson-Carter was elected as Alderman for Ward 1 in Qulin. POPLAR BLUFF TAX LEVY PASSES A new Poplar Bluff tax levy increase of 80 cents was passed yesterday during the General Municipal Election.
The levy will facilitate improvements to the Poplar Bluff School District which will also include transferring the High School to the current site of the 5th and 6th grade center, while 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students will move to the existing High School site.
The vote total was 2,850 yes votes and 2,226 no votes.
A Neelyville school proposition for construction, renovating, remodeling, and improvement of school facilities at both the Hillview and Neelyville campuses did not receive the necessary 57 percent of yes votes it needed to pass, only amassing 51 percent of the vote. TWO NEW MEMBERS ELECTED TO THREE RIVERS COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Two new members will soon be joining the Three Rivers College Board of Trustees.
Chris Williams and Eric Schalk were elected to the board yesterday, with each receiving over 3,100 votes. Wilbur Thornton, who has served on the board since 2008, came in third on the ballot with just over 2,300 votes. BUTLER COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD RACES Three People have been elected to the Poplar Bluff School Board.
According to the Butler County Clerk’s office, Steve Sells, and Alana Robertson were reelected to the Board of Education, joining newcomer John Scott, who had the highest vote total.
Robert Thurman, Billy Watson, and Roger Baxter, were chosen for the Twin Rivers Board of Education.
For the Neelyville Board of Education, voters in Butler County chose Robert Dean Fisher, Paul Petty, and Shane Eaker. TWO MISSING AFTER BARGE CAPSIZES NEAR BLYTHEVILLE Authorities say a barge capsized on the Mississippi River in northeast Arkansas and that two people who fell into the water are missing.
The barge overturned Tuesday at a shipping terminal near Blytheville.
Richard Wheatley, a spokesman for the Houston-based company that owns the terminal, Kinder Morgan, says the barge was being unloaded when it capsized.
The Coast Guard is searching the river for two people who fell into the water. The missing people's names weren't released.
Coast Guard Lieutenant Brandon McMillan says the barge was carrying steel coils, and that he doesn't know if anything that fell into the river poses an environmental concern. RESUME PREPARATION CLASS TO BE HELD AT POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY Job seekers wanting to make sure that they stand out for employers should attend a resume preparation class this Thursday.
The class will be held from 1 to 3 pm Thursday at the Poplar Bluff Public Library. The class is free and open to the public, but space is limited, so registration is recommended.
To register, fill out the online registration form at poplarbluff.org or call 573-686-8639. ILLINOIS MAN ARRESTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES An Illinois man is facing multiple marijuana related charges following his arrest Tuesday night.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Jarmez L. Smith, of Cairo, Illinois, was arrested shortly before 8 pm in Cape Girardeau County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute – marijuana.
Smith is also charged with possession of a controlled substance – marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. BILL WOULD KEEP COMMON CORE IN PLACE IN MISSOURI UNTIL AT LEAST 2016 Missouri's Republican-led House has backed off its opposition to new education standards and endorsed legislation to keep them in place while a commission studies their effectiveness.
State education officials voted to adopt the Common Core State Standards in 2010. Since then, opponents have charged that the standards take away control of curriculum from local school districts.
But House opponents acknowledged Tuesday that schools have already spent money to implement the standards for assessments tests scheduled for this fall. They agreed to allow them to remain in place until a group makes a recommendation for the 2016-17 academic year.
The group would be charged with developing standards for English, language arts, math, history and government.
The bill needs one more vote before moving to the Senate. MISSOURI VOTERS COULD BE ASKED TO DECIDE ON ONE CENT SALES TAX FOR TRANSPORTATION FUNDING Missouri voters would be asked to approve a one-cent sales tax for transportation funding under legislation endorsed by the state House.
The proposed constitutional amendment approved on Tuesday would appear on the November ballot if passed by the Legislature. It needs another affirmative vote in the House before moving to the Senate.
State transportation officials estimate the tax to generate about $800 million annually. It would need to be reauthorized by voters after 10 years to remain in effect. Ten percent of the funds raised would go toward local transportation projects.
Supporters say the penny tax is necessary for the state to maintain roads and bridges, and to finance new infrastructure projects. Opponents say the sales tax hike would disproportionately hurt low-income Missourians who may not frequently use roads. PIPE REPLACEMENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY Highway 153 in New Madrid County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a pipe under the roadway.
The work zone will be located between Route B and County Road 240.
Work is scheduled to take place today from 8 am to 3 pm.
APRIL 8, 2014
ELECTION DAY IN MISSOURI Multiple school board seats plus races for the Poplar Bluff City Council are up to voters today during the General Municipal Election.
Voters will decide who will serve on the board of education for Poplar Bluff, Twin Rivers, and Neelyville along with the Board of Trustees for Three Rivers College.
There are multiple city elections today as well as the tax levy issue for the Poplar Bluff School District. REGISTRATION OPEN FOR FALL SEMESTER AT THREE RIVERS COLLEGE Registration has begun for the 2014 fall semester at Three Rivers College.
Those interested in enrolling can browse available courses by clicking “Search for Classes” at trcc.edu. Current students can register online through the myTRCC system, however both current and new students must meet with an advisor prior to registering.
Students can register for classes in the fall through August 15th. The fall semester will begin on August 18th. Students can also register for Maymester, Summer, and Augmester classes. STATE REPRESENTATIVE FROM EAST PRAIRIE CHARGED WITH DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED A Missouri House member is facing two charges of driving while intoxicated stemming from arrests in the capital city.
Democratic Representative Steve Hodges, of East Prairie, was charged Friday for two separate events, one that occurred last week.
A probable cause statement released by the Cole County prosecutor says Hodges was arrested early Wednesday in Jefferson City. Police said he was taken to the county jail and given breath test that showed a .17 blood alcohol level. He was later released.
Hodges was also charged last week for a February arrest in Jefferson City. SIKESTON MAN FACING CHARGES IN CONNECTION TO ALLEGED THEFT A Sikeston man is in custody in connection to an alleged theft of multiple items from vehicles over the weekend.
According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 18 year old Chadwick Hopgood was arrested on charges of felony stealing of a firearm and misdemeanor stealing.
Hopgood allegedly stole a firearm, a checkbook, money, and other items from vehicles early Sunday morning. Hopgood reportedly confessed to a deputy during an interview. MOTORCYCLE SKILLS TEST TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED AT POPLAR BLUFF DRIVER EXAMINATION STATION Anyone looking to take the motorcycle skills test in Poplar Bluff is in for a small delay.
According to Captain George E. Ridens with the Highway Patrol, the motorcycle skills portion of the testing process has been temporarily suspended at the Poplar Bluff Driver Examination Station due to another event at the site.
The test will not be available through April 20th. Written examinations along with Class E and Class F skills tests will be offered as normally scheduled. MAN CONVICTED FOR HIS INVOLVEMENT IN ROBBERY OF CAPE GIRARDEAU BUSINESS A Memphis man has been convicted on multiple charges for his role in the 2009 robbery of Jayson Jewelers in Cape Girardeau.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 30 year old Daryl House planned the robbery with three other people and also brought a handgun to be used to commit the robbery. During the robbery, he, and two others, allegedly took jewelry and cash from the store.
House is facing a maximum sentence of life imprisonment on two counts at his sentencing on June 30th. MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR TOMORROW IN DEXTER Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will stop by Dexter tomorrow for a Mobile Office.
The Mobile Office Program gives Missourians the opportunity to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.
The Mobile Office will be held Wednesday, April 9th, from 11 am to noon at the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission in Dexter. COLLEGE FUNDING INCREASE APPROVED BY SENATE COMMITTEE Missouri's public universities and community colleges could get a 5 percent funding increase under a budget plan embraced by a Senate committee.
The plan approved Monday by the Senate Appropriations Committee would provide a more than $43 million funding increase to higher education institutions.
Goveror Jay Nixon had proposed increases of 5 percent for universities and 4 percent increase for community colleges.
The House had approved a 3 percent increase for higher education institutions. Part of that would have been dependent on state revenues exceeding legislative projections and instead meeting Nixon's more optimistic forecast.
All of the proposals would distribute the increased funding based on whether institutions meet performance criteria.
The House and Senate must settle their budget differences by early May. MISSOURI SENATE APPROVES LIST OF OVER 300 ITEMS TO BE FUNDED THROUGH A BOND PROPOSAL Missouri senators have approved a to-do list of more than 300 items that could be funded through a bonding proposal.
The projects are detailed in a resolution passed Monday by a 26 to 4 vote. The bonding is authorized under a separate bill passed last week by the Senate.
Both measures now go to the House for consideration.
The plan would allot $200 million for a new mental health hospital in Fulton. An additional $400 million of bonds would be split among state facilities and public colleges and universities.
The bonds generally would fund maintenance and repairs that were put off when state revenues dipped during the recession.
State Office of Administration Commissioner Doug Nelson said Monday that some of the maintenance projects now are occurring, even without the bond funds. BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN CARTER COUNTY Westbound Highway 60 in Carter County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform routine bridge maintenance.
Crews will be performing maintenance on the bridge over Current River.
Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday from 7 am to 5 pm daily. DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD CLOSED FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be closing a Dunklin County road to replace a pipe.
Route H in Dunklin County will be closed today, weather permitting, from 8 am to 3 pm. The work zone will be located from Route J to County Road 108.