January 28, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 012815
MAN FACING SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGES IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS
A Walnut Ridge area man is facing a sexual assault charge in connection to an investigation that began as a missing juvenile case.
According to Imboden Live, last week authorities arrested Jerry Hampton on charges of fourth degree sexual assault and possession of child pornography.
Hampton, who is a registered sex offender, was found to be having contact with the minor. Hampton was arrested after authorities found and interviewed the juvenile.
WAPPAPELLO MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES
A Wappapello man was taken into custody Tuesday on multiple drug related charges.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Travis Birkenmaier is facing charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; possession of marijuana; unlawful use of drug paraphernalia; and four counts of endangering the welfare of a child.
Birkenmaier was arrested at around 6:45 pm in Butler County.
HARVIELL TEEN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF METH
A teenager from Harviell is facing a meth charge in connection to his arrest Tuesday afternoon in Butler County.
According to the Highway Patrol, 19 year old Anthony Norman was taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine.
AREA WOMAN ARRESTED ON METH AND MARIJUANA CHARGES
A Wappapello woman was taken into custody Tuesday morning in Wayne County.
According to the Highway Patrol, 50 year old Elizabeth Jones was arrested at around 7:30 am on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
Jones is also charged with possession of marijuana.
VA TO HOST VETERANS ART SHOW
The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center will host a special Veterans Art Show on Saturday, February 14th. The event is part of the National Salute to Veteran Patients Week.
Local veterans are encouraged to enter their art work in the show. Each veteran may enter one art item. Entries may be submitted to the Voluntary Services Office at the VA Medical Center, 1500 N. Westwood Blvd., by Friday, January 30th.
The entries will be displayed at the medical center after judging. Winners will be announced during a reception to be held February 14th, at 1 pm in the Medical Center lobby.
PBJHS CHEERLEADERS WIN NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
The Poplar Bluff Junior High School Cheerleaders won the National Cheerleaders Association High School Open National Championship earlier this month in St. Charles.
The team participated in the large intermediate division on January 18th.
The Poplar Bluff High School Competition Cheer Squad will be competing at the National High School Cheerleading championship on February 7th and 8th, at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.
ROAD CLOSURE TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY
Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Stoddard County today to replace a culvert pipe under Route PP.
During the replacement, Route PP will be closed from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm between Harty Street and Richardson Avenue.
SECOND PROPOSAL TO END ARKANSAS’ MEDICAID PLAN IN 2015 FILED
(AP) - A second proposal has been filed in the Legislature to end Arkansas' compromise Medicaid expansion this year, days after Governor Asa Hutchinson called on lawmakers to continue the program through 2016.
Republican Representative Donnie Copeland of Little Rock filed a proposal Tuesday to end the "private option," which uses federal funds to purchase private insurance for the poor. Copeland's proposal would end the program December 31st.
Hutchinson last week called on lawmakers to continue the program through the end of next year while a proposed task force looks at alternatives for coverage and larger Medicaid reforms.
A similar measure was filed in the Senate on Monday that would end the program December 31st. That measure and the task force proposal are expected to go before a Senate panel Wednesday.
MISSOURI BILL WOULD SHIELD HUMAN TRAFFICKING VICTIMS’ INFO
(AP) - The Missouri secretary of state is pushing a bill that would allow the state to keep human trafficking victims' addresses secret.
Secretary of State Jason Kander on Tuesday announced legislation that would expand the Safe at Home program to cover those victims.
The program gives confidential addresses to survivors of domestic violence, rape and some other crimes. The aim is to prevent the victims' assailants from tracking where they live and potentially harming them again.
Sex trafficking survivor and advocate Katie Rhoades says her pimp threatened her with violence before she escaped. She says the legislation could help other survivors who later worry about their own safety.
North Carolina, Washington, Oregon and Maryland have similar programs for human trafficking victims.
OVER 200 THOUSAND MISSOURIANS SIGN UP FOR HEALTH CARE ON FEDERAL EXCHANGE
(AP) - Nearly 38 percent more Missourians than last year have signed up for health insurance under the federal exchange.
U.S. Health and Human Services data released Tuesday shows that 209,336 residents had signed up for coverage as of Jan. 16, up about 57,000 from the first enrollment period. The number of enrollees could grow larger because the deadline for getting coverage doesn't end until February 15.
Among the people who've signed up so far this year, about 88 percent chose a plan with financial assistance. Forty-one percent were new to the federal insurance exchange, and 59 percent re-enrolled.
Total enrollment in the 37 states served by HealthCare.gov is about 7.1 million people.
January 27, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 012715
THREE FACING MURDER CHARGE FOLLOWING HAYTI HEIGHTS SHOOTING
Three people are facing a murder charge in connection to the shooting death of a man on Sunday.
According to authorities, 29 year old Arthur Liddell and 18 year old Demario Mitchell, of Hayti, along with 25 year old Samuel Jones Jr., are each facing charges of second degree murder, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon.
The charges stem from the shooting death of 20 year old Cedriceon Stewart.
MISSING MAN FOUND DEAD IN WAYNE COUNTY
The body of a missing man was discovered over the weekend in Wayne County.
The body of 53 year old Kenneth Willard was found Saturday morning near the Markham Springs Recreation area of Black River. According to authorities, Willard died of a gunshot wound and foul play is suspected.
Willard was last seen in October in the Zalma area.
MAN CHARGED WITH ASSAULT AND ARMED CRIMINAL ACTION IN CONNECTION TO INCIDENT IN MALDEN
A man is facing charges following an alleged assault.
According to KFVS, William Landen has been charged with first degree assault, resisting arrest, and armed criminal action.
Landen reportedly hit another man multiple times with a shovel in the head and face on Sunday. After Malden Police arrived, Landen attempted to run and was subdued with a stun gun.
The victim was taken to a Memphis hospital.
TWO ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON METH CHARGES
Two people are facing a meth related charge following their arrest Monday afternoon.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 47 year old Stacy Melton, of St. Louis, and 34 year old Kallen Russom, of Silva were each arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
Melton and Russom were taken into custody shortly before 3:30 pm in Wayne County.
BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN WAYNE COUNTY
Bridge maintenance has been scheduled for today and tomorrow in Wayne County.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Highway 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane at the junction of Route A.
Work is scheduled to be performed today and tomorrow from 8 am to 2 pm each day.
INTERSTATE REPAIRS THIS WEEK 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 at mile marker 18.5.
Work will take place today through Friday, from 7 am to 5 pm daily.
MISSOURI STATE AUDITOR RELEASES REPORT ON TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONERS
(AP) - A state audit shows Missouri has spent $376,000 flying commissioners to meetings across the state.
A report released Monday by state Auditor Tom Schweich notes the state could have saved $294,000 reimbursing conservation and transportation commissioners for driving instead in 2012 and 2013.
The transportation and conservation departments responded in the audit that the flights are necessary to get commissioners to meetings in a timely manner.
The Department of Transportation plans to continue flying commissioners on state planes despite Schweich's recommendation to drive.
The audit also notes the fleet of 19 planes is unnecessarily large and consequently is underused. The report notes Missouri's six passenger planes on average were used to capacity only about 10 percent of the time they were available to fly.
BUSINESS LEADERS EXPRESS SUPPORT FOR REVIEW OF MISSOURI TAX CODE
(AP) - Business groups say they support a proposed multi-year review of Missouri's tax code by a panel of experts.
Republican Senator Bob Dixon, of Springfield, said an in-depth study of the tax code was desperately needed during a Senate committee hearing on the measure.
He says officials, tax attorneys, accountants and business owners, would study the code and produce a report as a starting point for an update of the code.
Dixon's proposal would also create an independent office to advocate for taxpayers and outline a right to fair and equal application of the tax code.
Lobbyists for business groups say those changes would help protect taxpayers.
The Senate committee has not voted on the proposal.
PROPOSAL EXEMPTS BANKS FROM MISSOURI CONSUMER PROTECTION LAW
(AP) - Lobbyists for banks and credit unions say an exemption from a state consumer-protection law is needed to prevent excessive lawsuits against financial institutions.
Missouri Credit Union Association lobbyist David Kent said during a Monday legislative hearing that without a change, there could be a chilling effect on loans in Missouri.
The bill the banks support would exempt them from lawsuits from the state attorney general and from civil lawsuits seeking compensation for fraud, deceptive advertising or other violations.
An official from the attorney general's office says that without the authority to enforce this state law, individual consumers would have little recourse and banks would have no incentive to work with the state to mediate disputes with consumers.
January 26, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 012615
TWO MURDER SUSPECTS ARRESTED IN SIKESTON
Sikeston authorities arrested two murder suspects Friday evening at an area apartment building.
According to Captain James McMillen, William Henry-Applewhite III and Gailon Applewhite were taken into custody. The men were wanted in connection to the January 11th homicide of Christopher West.
McMillen also says that warrants are pending on other people who assisted and aided the two wanted subjects.
ONE KILLED IN IRON COUNTY WRECK
One person was killed Friday morning in a wreck involving a farm tractor.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 77 year old Everett Nichols, of Belleview, hit the back of a farm tractor’s trailer on Route U in Iron County.
Nichols was pronounced dead at the scene.
ONE PERSON DEAD FOLLOWING SHOOTING IN PEMISCOT COUNTY
Authorities in Pemiscot County are searching for two suspects in connection to a deadly shooting on Sunday.
According to KFVS, 20 year old Cedriceon Stewart, of Hayti Heights, was killed during the incident at around 8:30 am.
One person has been arrested in the case, while two others are still being sought.
POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF A FIREARM INSIDE A CORRECTIONAL FACILITY
A Poplar Bluff woman was taken into custody Friday evening in Butler County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Kerri Hoffman is facing felony charges of possession of a firearm inside a correctional facility and possession of a controlled substance.
Hoffman also reportedly had a warrant out of Butler County for fraud.
MAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING CHASE WITH POPLAR BLUFF POLICE
A Poplar Bluff man is facing charges following an incident over the weekend.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, Saturday morning a female victim reported to police that Jewayne Shaw had assaulted her and held her at gunpoint at their residence. The woman was able to escape the residence and alert police.
After an officer responded to the residence, Shaw fled the scene in a vehicle. During the ensuing chase, Shaw’s vehicle struck two other vehicles before it struck a concrete retaining wall on the Northwest corner of West Vine Street at North Westwood Blvd.
Shaw and a passenger were injured in the wreck.
The Police Department says that a probable cause affidavit was prepared and submitted to the Butler County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for charges of felonious restraint, second degree assault, armed criminal action, unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, resisting arrest, and numerous traffic offenses.
ONE IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING ALTERCATION AT MALDEN RESIDENCE
One person is in custody in connection to an altercation Sunday at a Malden residence.
A person was taken to a Memphis hospital following the altercation, which involved a weapon. KFVS is reporting that the person is in critical condition.
The names of those involved have not been released.
ELLINGTON MAN CHARGED WITH POSSESSION OF METHAMPHETAMINE PARAPHERNALIA AND DESTRUCTION OF EVIDENCE
An Ellington man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest Saturday afternoon.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old Tince Chitwood was arrested Saturday in Reynolds County on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine paraphernalia and destruction of evidence.
Chitwood was also charged with possession of up to 35 grams of marijuana and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
TWO HONORED AT POPLAR BLUFF CHAMBER BANQUET
Two area men were honored Saturday night at the Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual banquet.
According to the Daily American Republic, Joey McLane was named Citizen of the Year, while Ed DeGaris received the award for Volunteer of the Year.
McLane is the President and CEO of First Midwest Bank of Poplar Bluff. DeGaris serves on the Poplar Bluff City Council.
FATIGUE CITED IN CONNECTION TO 2013 TRAIN CRASH
(AP) - Federal officials say erratic shifts and sleep deprivation may have contributed to two freight trains colliding in May 2013 in southeast Missouri.
The Southeast Missourian reports that the accident happened when a 60-car Union Pacific train hit a 75-car Burlington Northern Santa Fe train at the Rockview intersection.
Cars were derailed, fire broke out and the overpass gave way. Five automobile passengers on the overpass were injured. A train conductor and engineer were also hurt.
The National Transportation Safety Board says a Union Pacific conductor and engineer failed to take necessary actions to prevent the collision. The report found their performance may have been compromised by fatigue as a result of working erratic schedules in the days preceding the accident.
GOVERNOR NIXON ASKING FOR INCREASE IN HIGHER EDUCATION FUNDING
(AP) - Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is asking for $25 million for higher education next fiscal year.
But $13 million would be generated in part through expanded Medicaid funding, which has been widely criticized by Republicans. The governor also wants more than $161 million to update and repair campuses.
Although colleges and university officials say the money would help, they added it's not much after years of underfunding.
January 23, 2015
MINER KILLED IN REYNOLDS COUNTY
The Mine Safety and Health Administration is investigating the death of a miner in eastern Missouri.
The federal agency said Thursday that a 54-year-old worker died at the Fletcher Mine and Mill, a lead and zinc ore mine near Bunker in Reynolds County.
The mine is operated by the Doe Run Co., which identified the worker as John Hoodenpyle Senior. Company spokeswoman Tammy Stankey says the miner died after rocks fell on the cab of his equipment as he was removing loose material from the roof of the mine. No other employees were injured.
Stankey said the company was "saddened by the tragic loss." The company says underground operations at the mine will remain suspended until the Mine Safety and Health Administration signs off on work resuming.
A POPLAR BLUFF MAN IS WANTED FOR QUESTIONING IN CONNECTION TO ST. LOUIS HOMICIDE
Police are looking for a Poplar Bluff man in connection to a homicide at a St. Louis area hotel.
According to authorities, 30 year old Quinton Williams is wanted for questioning in connection to the shooting death.
Williams was allegedly an associate of Joseph Bowens, who was arrested earlier this month in Poplar Bluff on murder and robbery charges.
AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING DEATH IN DUNKLIN COUNTY
Authorities are investigating a reported death in Dunklin County.
According to KFVS, the investigation is about the death of a man outside of Campbell. Authorities had received a report of shots being fired shortly after 5:15 pm Thursday.
There were no other injuries reported.
JURY FINDS MAN GUILTY OF MURDER IN CAPE GIRARDEAU
22 year old Kenneth Bell Jr. was convicted Thursday on two counts of first degree murder.
Bell was charged for the shooting deaths of Misty Cole and Shannon James in Cape Girardeau in February of 2013.
He was also convicted on a single count of armed criminal action. Bell is scheduled to be sentenced in March.
ASU RAPE INVESTIGATION CONTINUES, TWO CHARGED WITH HINDERING APPREHENSION
An investigation into an alleged sexual assault in Jonesboro last week has led to two men being charged with hindering apprehension.
Authorities say an 18 year old female reported Friday morning that she had been raped at the Arkansas State University’s Sigma Pi house the night before. She told officers that she had drank a vodka punch and fallen unconscious.
The investigation led police to question Camden English, a Sigma Pi member, who told them that he found the victim unconscious in his bed, but denied having contact with the victim.
While investigators were on the way to execute a search warrant of English’s room, English allegedly sent a text to Alex Techmer requesting Techmer remove a glass of vodka punch from his room.
Authorities say Techmer is not a student at ASU.
English and Techmer have each been charged with hindering apprehension. English has also been charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
RAILROAD REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY
Contractor crews will be in Wayne County today for railroad crossing repairs.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the repairs will cause Highway 49 to be closed from 8:15 am to 4:15 pm between the Mill Spring city limits and Birch Street.
MISSOURI CAR DEALERS ASSOCIATION SUING STATE TO BLOCK DIRECT TESLA SALES
The Missouri Automobile Dealers Association is suing the state revenue department for allowing an electric car maker to sell directly to customers.
The car dealers filed a lawsuit Thursday in Cole County Circuit Court claiming Missouri violated state law by licensing California-based Tesla Motors as a franchise.
That gives the electric car manufacturer the power to sell cars to customers instead of working through a dealership.
Department of Revenue spokeswoman Michelle Gleba says the agency doesn't comment on pending litigation.
The lawsuit claims the department is giving Tesla special privileges.
Tesla says the claims are groundless and called the lawsuit an attempt to decrease competition.
Tesla has come under fire before. Lawmakers proposed failed legislation last year that would have banned Tesla from selling vehicles directly to consumers.
NEW BILL WOULD REQUIRE ID TO USE MOBILE PAYMENT SYSTEM ON PHONE OR TABLET
A Missouri lawmaker is pushing a measure that would require identification each time a person uses a mobile payment system on their phone or tablet.
Democratic Representative Joshua Peters of St. Louis says the bill he introduced Wednesday requires customers to show a state driver's license or other identification when they use a mobile wallet app or other electronic payment system.
He says it will prevent fraud if the mobile device is lost or stolen.
Merchants would have to record the license or identification number or could be responsible for the illegal purchases made if a device is reported stolen.
January 22, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 012215
ONE PERSON DEAD IN CONNECTION TO TUESDAY WRECK
One man has died in connection to a single vehicle wreck Tuesday in Dunklin County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 79 year old Joseph Baker, of Campbell, died Wednesday at a Memphis Hospital. Baker was involved in a wreck Tuesday when his vehicle hit a large highway sign off of US 412 near Kennett.
A passenger in the vehicle suffered moderate injuries.
AREA MAYER DIES
Joe Stuckey, the mayor Benton, has passed away.
According to an obituary posted by Amick Burnett Funeral Chapels, Stuckey died Wednesday in Benton.
He was 68 years old.
2.2 MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE REPORTED NEAR GOSNELL
A micro earthquake was reported Wednesday near Gosnell.
According to the Center for Earthquake Research and Information, a 2.2 magnitude earthquake occurred 10 miles northeast of Gosnell at 4:01 pm.
The earthquake had a depth of almost 6 miles.
MAN TO HIKE OVER TWO HUNDRED MILES TO RAISE MONEY AND AWARENESS FOR CYSTIC FIBROSIS
A man with Cystic Fibrosis is planning on hiking over 200 miles along the Ozark trail to raise money and awareness for the disease.
45 year old Michael Burke will hike 230 miles from Leasburg, Missouri, to Winona in September. Burke is coordinating his hike with the 30.1 mile Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Xtreme Hike fundraising event on September 12th.
Cystic Fibrosis is a life-threatening genetic disease that causes debilitating lung infections that lead to premature death. It affects 30,000 adults and children in the United States and 70,000 people worldwide.
MEDICAID EXPANSION PANEL TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF
Missouri Highlands and the Missouri Rural Crisis Center will be hosting a Medicaid Expansion Panel Discussion next week in Poplar Bluff.
The panel will discuss how Medicaid Expansion would impact Missouri’s rural economies, hospitals and access to healthcare services in rural communities.
The panel has been scheduled for 6:30 to 8 pm, Thursday, January 29th, at the First Church of God on South Westwood Boulevard in Poplar Bluff.
DRAINAGE REPAIR PROJECT ONGOING IN STODDARD COUNTY
Route J in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane through next Tuesday as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform drainage repairs.
The section of roadway to be reduced is located from County Road 413 to Reed Street.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 am to 4 pm daily through Tuesday, January 27th.
MISSOURI GAINS OVER 40,000 JOBS IN 2014
(AP) - Missouri's unemployment has fallen again and now is at its lowest point in almost seven years.
The state Department of Economic Development on Tuesday released data showing the seasonally adjusted jobless rate dropped to 5.4 percent in December, its lowest rate since April 2008.
Unemployment has continued to drop slightly in recent months, from 5.9 percent in October to 5.6 percent in November.
Seasonally adjusted nonfarm employment grew by 1,700 jobs in December, bringing the number of new jobs for 2014 at about 44,700.
That's the largest annual growth from December-to-December since 1997.
GOVERNOR NIXON PROPOSES BUDGET FOR NEXT FISCAL YEAR
(AP) - Missouri Governor Jay Nixon says he is asking for relatively few funding increases in his $26 billion budget proposal for next fiscal year.
State budget director Linda Luebbering calls the budget 'modest' and says the state is recovering after revenues fell significantly short of expectations last year.
Nixon's proposed budget includes a $50 million increase in basic aid for public schools and $12 million more for performance-based funding for public colleges and universities. He's also asking lawmakers to approve more money for services to people with disabilities and programs to help the aging.
The Democratic governor said even more could be spent on education and other programs if lawmakers would approve several measures that could enhance revenues, including an expansion of Medicaid. Republican lawmakers have previously declined to do that.
TRANSPORTATION OFFICIALS CAUTION AGAINST NEW BILL THAT WOULD END WEIGHT LIMITS ON SOME TRUCKS
(AP) - Missouri transportation officials say a bill to end weight limits on trucks carrying livestock and grain would damage state bridges and roadways.
The concerns came along with praise from farmers who told the Senate's agriculture committee on Wednesday the bill would help foster the state's agricultural industry.
The legislation would expand a current law that removed weight limits on trucks carrying milk across the state.
But officials from the Department of Transportation warned that the additional weight could hurt roads at a time when money for repairs already is strained.
Chief Engineer Ed Hassinger says the proposal could result in bridge closures and damaged road surfaces.
Republican Senator Brian Munzlinger of Williamstown says he plans to keep the proposal in the bill, which includes several other agricultural provisions.
January 21, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 012115
TENNESSEE MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES
A Tennessee man was arrested Tuesday in Butler County on drug charges.
According to the Highway Patrol, 39 year old Jacob Ross, of Covington, was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine; driving while intoxicated, drugs; possession of a controlled substance, synthetic narcotics; possession of marijuana; and leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident.
NO ONE INJURED AFTER GUN WAS DISCHARGED AT CAPE GIRARDEAU RESTAURANT
Nobody was injured when a gun accidently went off Tuesday at a Cape Girardeau restaurant.
According to authorities, the gun had fallen out of a man’s jacket and discharged when it hit the floor. The bullet went into a wall of the restaurant.
The man was not arrested in connection to the incident.
NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WOMAN FACING ADDITIONAL CHILD SEX CHARGES
A Northeast Arkansas woman is facing additional child sex charges in connection to her arrest last year.
According to the Izard County Sheriff’s Department, 32 year old Beth Dickerson was charged Friday with sexual assault in the fourth degree and distributing, possessing, or viewing of matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child.
Dickerson was arrested in October on charges of sexual indecency with a child, sexual assault fourth degree, and rape.
The additional charges stem from a forensic analysis of her computer which was seized at the time of the original charges.
FERRY CONNECTING MISSOURI AND KENTUCKY REOPENS THIS MORNING
A ferry that connects Missouri and Kentucky is scheduled to reopen this morning.
The Dorena-Hickman Ferry is set to restart operations at 7 am on the regular winter operating schedule. The ferry has been closed since November for outfitting and inspection of a new barge.
The Ferry connects KY 1354 at Hickman, Kentucky, with Missouri Route A and Route 77 near Dorena, Missouri.
INTERSTATE REPAIRS THIS WEEK IN PEMISCOT COUNTY
Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Pemiscot County this week for pavement repairs on Interstate 55.
Northbound I-55 will be reduced daily from 8 am to 5 pm through Friday. The work zone will be located between mile markers 14 and 16.
APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE MEMBERS HEAR PLEAS TO RELEASE FUNDING
(AP) - Missouri groups are asking for state lawmakers' help in releasing millions of dollars in funding withheld by the governor.
Members of the state Senate Appropriations Committee on Tuesday listened for three hours as groups fighting for arts education, help for victims of domestic violence and other programs pleaded for lawmaker assistance.
Democratic Governor Jay Nixon withheld roughly $700 million this fiscal year, but Missourians in November amended the state constitution to allow lawmakers to override a governor's budget restrictions.
It's unclear whether lawmakers can use those powers on budget restrictions made by Nixon before that amendment passed.
Appropriations Committee chairman and Republican state Sen. Kurt Schaefer of Columbia says if lawmakers act, they'll prioritize money for many of the programs discussed Tuesday.
NEW PROPOSAL WOULD REDUCE RESTRICT WELFARE BENEFITS IN MISSOURI
(AP) - A Missouri Republican says his proposal to restrict welfare benefits will encourage Missourians to get back to work.
A proposal to reduce lifetime limits for temporary cash assistance and impose other restrictions on welfare programs met strong opposition at a hearing Tuesday.
The proposal sponsored by Senator David Sater of Cassville reduces the lifetime limit for temporary cash assistance for families from five to two years and bars dangerous felons from receiving cash benefits.
It also restricts benefits for an entire family if one member does not comply with work activity requirements.
Opponents of the bill say it would make helping families out of poverty more difficult and would not give individuals enough time to overcome barriers to success.
Sater says he's open to changing some parts of the bill.
MISSOURI REPRESENTATIVE PROPOSING MEDICAID EXPANSION THAT WOULD COVER VETERANS
(AP) - A Missouri Republican who supports Medicaid expansion will introduce a bill that would cover veterans and their families.
Missouri residents with incomes below the federal poverty level, or $19,530 for a family of three, do not qualify for Medicaid or for subsidies to buy health insurance through a federally run website.
Senator Ryan Silvey, of Kansas City, says that group includes veterans' families. He plans to introduce a bill expanding Medicaid for veterans that fall in the coverage gap created by Missouri's decision not to expand the program.
Silvey says he still supports a broader Medicaid expansion but doesn't want to leave veterans in a lurch if those proposals do not move forward this year.
Republican leaders have said Medicaid expansion is unlikely this session.
January 20, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 012015
ONE IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING DEATH IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS
(AP) - Police in Newport say one man was shot to death outside his home and a suspect is in custody.
Lieutenant Patrick Weatherford says in a news release that officers responding to reports of a shooting Sunday afternoon found 50 year old Ronald Edwin Everett with a gunshot wound to his chest. Weatherford says Everett died later at a local hospital.
Weatherford said it appears Everett was shot as he approached a car that had stopped in front of the house.
Police later arrested a suspect in the shooting and say the man is being held in the Jackson County jail pending a court appearance scheduled for Wednesday.
Police say Arkansas State Police are assisting in the investigation.
MAN ARRESTED AFTER ALLEGEDLY FLEEING FROM POLICE
A Kennett man has been arrested after attempting to flee from police Sunday.
According to the Kennett Police Department, an officer stopped a vehicle driven by 26 year old Cody Easley. During the stop, Easley allegedly fled from the car on foot.
He was taken into custody following a short foot chase. Easley was arrested for resisting arrest by fleeing, a probation and parole warrant and no operator’s license.
KENNETT MAN FACING ASSAULT CHARGE
Kennett authorities say an area man is facing multiple charges following his arrest Sunday.
According to the Kennett Police Department, 31 year old Gaylord Cook, of Kennett, was arrested on a Dunklin County warrant.
Cook was being held on charges of second degree assault and possession of a controlled substance.
CARUTHERSVILLE POLICE INVESTIGATING HIT AND RUN
Authorities in Caruthersville are investigating a reported hit and run incident.
The Caruthersville Police Department says that officers were called to a residence on Grand Avenue Saturday, at around 9:40 pm. They were told that a silver Ford Expedition hit a parked vehicle and then continued driving away from the accident.
The officers observed damage to the passenger side of the parked vehicle.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Caruthersville Police Department at 573-333-2121.
REWARD BEING OFFERED FOR INFORMATION ABOUT RECENT FINDING OF DEAD ANIMALS
The Caruthersville Humane Society is offering a reward for information about a recent incident in New Madrid County.
The corpse of a dog, along with dismembered parts of another animal, were reportedly found. According to Examiner.com, the Humane Society is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible.
Anyone who has information is asked to call the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department at 573-748-2516.
CONSTITUENTS TO HAVE A CHANCE TO MEET WITH SENATOR BLUNT’S STAFF TODAY IN DEXTER
Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Dexter this morning to hold a mobile office with area residents.
The mobile office has been scheduled for 9:30 to 10:30 am at the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission.
During the mobile office, people will have a chance to speak with Senator Blunt’s staff members about their questions or concerns with the federal government.
HAZARDOUS MOVING OPERATION TO BE CONDUCTED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI
The Missouri State Highway Patrol will be conducting a hazardous moving operation sometime this month in Southeast Missouri.
The operation will be held in Butler and Cape Girardeau Counties in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies. The patrol says that a hazardous moving operation is designed to target vehicles that are being operated in an unsafe manner.
OVER 260 THOUSAND DEER KILLED IN MISSOURI DURING HUNTING SEASON
(AP) - Hunters in Missouri killed 8,000 more deer during the 2014-15 season than the previous season.
The Missouri Department of Conservation says 260,552 deer were killed in the season that ended Thursday, outpacing last season's totals.
Hunters killed 51,755 deer during just the current archery season. The most deer were killed in Jefferson, St. Louis and Franklin counties during the archery season.
The archery season for turkey also ended Thursday and 2,587 birds were killed. Last season tallied 2,546. The 2014 spring and fall turkey totals were 55,878.
The department says there were four hunting-related deaths during the deer season. The deaths involved a fall from a tree stand, a heater explosion inside a deer blind, a heart attack and a shooting wound from another hunter.
January 19, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 011915
HOMICIDE SUSPECT ARRESTED IN POPLAR BLUFF
A suspect in a St. Louis homicide has been arrested in Poplar Bluff.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, 43 year old Joseph Bowens was taken into custody Saturday. Bowens is a suspect in the death of a hotel manager during a robbery on Thursday.
Bowens is facing charges of first degree murder, first degree robbery, and two counts of armed criminal action.
ONE PERSON DEAD IN ELECTROCUTION INCIDENT
One person is dead in connection to a wreck in Stoddard County.
According to the Daily American Republic, 19 year old Marcus Lauder hit a utility pole off of Highway 51 with his vehicle.
When he then got out of his vehicle, he apparently stepped onto a live electrical wire and was electrocuted. Lauder was found lying in the road.
SEXUAL ASSAULT REPORT MADE BY ASU STUDENT
Police at Arkansas State University are investigating a reported sexual assault.
According to authorities, the alleged sexual assault occurred early Friday morning at a location on University Loop east.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Arkansas State University Police at 870-972-2093.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED FRIDAY MORNING ON METH CHARGE
A Poplar Bluff man is facing a meth charge following his arrest on Friday.
According to the Highway Patrol, 36 year old Christopher Gordon was taken into custody shortly before 8 pm Friday night in Butler County.
Gordon is facing charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; possession of drug paraphernalia; and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
ELLSINORE WOMAN FACING CHARGE OF POSSESSION OF METH
An Ellsinore woman is facing a meth charge following her arrest in Ripley County.
According to authorities, 55 year old Peggy Hendrix was arrested Saturday afternoon on charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and possession of drug paraphernalia.
TWO ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY FOR ALLEGED POSSESSION OF METH
Two men were taken into custody Friday night in Wayne County on drug charges.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 65 year old James Aldridge, of Silva, and 19 year old Anthony Norman, of Harviell, were arrested at around 8:30 pm Friday night.
They are each facing charges including possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
ACT ANNOUNCED FOR 2015 VALENTINES FOR VETERANS CONCERT
The act has been announced for the 2015 Valentines for Veterans Concert.
According to the The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center, the Kentucky Headhunters will be performing on February 13th at the Black River Coliseum. The concert will begin at 6:30 pm and there is no charge for tickets.
For more information, contact the Medical Center at 573-778-4276.
MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF
Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Poplar Bluff tomorrow to conduct a mobile office.
The meeting will be held from 1 to 2 pm at the Poplar Bluff Area 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.
RAILROAD CROSSING REPAIRS TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY
A portion of Highway 25 in Dunklin County will be closed today as crews repair a railroad crossing.
The work zone is located between Edwards Street and Line Street.
Work is scheduled to take place today from 7 am to 6 pm.
THREE CREDIT CARD COMPANIES REACH AGREEMENT WITH MISSOURI IN CONNECTION TO DECEPTIVE MARKETING INVESTIGATION
(AP) - Three credit card companies will pay $2.2 million to Missouri to settle an investigation alleging they marketed deceptive add-on products to consumers.
Attorney General Chris Koster says Discover, Capital One and HSBC have agreed not to engage in misleading marketing of identity theft and payment protection products under a settlement announced Friday.
The companies admitted no wrongdoing.
Koster says some were not aware they'd signed up for the products charged on their credit cards or were misled about the products. He says consumers paid for products they later found they couldn't receive.
Similar settlements with credit card companies over deceptive marketing of products have been made in other states, including Hawaii and West Virginia.
The money from the settlement will go toward a fund for consumer-protection education and enforcement activity.
MISSOURI REPUBLICANS TO PUSH FOR LAWSUIT DAMAGE AWARD CAPS
(AP) - Republicans will push this session to reinstate some lawsuit damage award caps the Missouri Supreme Court has declared unconstitutional.
Some lawmakers want caps on the amount juries can award for noneconomic damages in medical malpractice cases and punitive damages in civil injury cases.
The Supreme Court declared medical malpractice caps unconstitutional in 2012 and overturned punitive damage caps last September.
Supporters of the limits say they provide certainty for businesses and health care providers. Opponents say limits harm only individuals who have already been injured by the negligence of a doctor or business.
Senate President Pro Tem Tom Dempsey says caps on some medical malpractice injury suits will likely pass this year.
Bills to cap those awards have passed the House in previous years but stalled in the Senate.
ARKANSAS LAWMAKER PROPOSING REQUIRING PUBLIC COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES TO ALLOW CONCEALED HANDGUNS
(AP) - A lawmaker is proposing a requirement that Arkansas' public colleges and universities allow faculty and staff to carry concealed handguns on campus.
Republican Rep. Charlie Collins of Fayetteville filed legislation Thursday to repeal a portion of state law that leaves the decision whether to allow concealed handguns on campus up to colleges and universities.
Collins' proposal would remove the opt-out provision for public colleges and universities, but keep it in place for private campuses.
Two years ago, Collins proposed requiring colleges to allow concealed handguns for faculty and staff, but agreed to the opt-out provision after facing objections from college presidents and chancellors.
He says there's more support now in the Legislature for the requirement and noted that no public campuses have opted to allow concealed handguns.
January 16, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 011615
ONE IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO STOLEN VEHICLE
One person is in custody following a chase involving a stolen vehicle.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the stolen vehicle was recovered Thursday on Herschel Bess Boulevard and PP Highway. The vehicle had crashed during a chase with police.
A person in the vehicle was taken into custody; however their name was not released.
Police say they were searching the area for a possible second suspect, as well.
MISSISSIPPI FUGITIVE ARRESTED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS
A fugitive from Mississippi was arrested Thursday in Northeast Arkansas.
According to the Baxter County Sheriff, authorities conducted a traffic stop early Thursday in Mountain Home. A person in the vehicle, 38 year old Dennis Tyrell Miller, was found to have an outstanding felony bench warrant for failure to appear in court on an original charge of murder in the first degree.
Miller is being held in custody pending his extradition back to Mississippi.
SIKESTON MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG AND ASSAULT CHARGES
Authorities say a Sikeston man was taken into custody early Thursday morning on multiple charges in Cape Girardeau County.
According to an arrest report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old James Baker was arrested shortly after 12:15 am Thursday.
Baker is facing felony charges of assault on a law enforcement officer; resisting arrest; and possession of a controlled substance, cocaine.
MAN SHOT IN THE SHOULDER IN CAPE GIRARDEAU
Authorities in Cape Girardeau are investigating a shooting that occurred Thursday.
According to authorities, a man was found with a gunshot wound in the shoulder. The man was taken to an area hospital and his injuries reportedly did not appear to be life threatening.
A pistol was also found in the area.
BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT
Butler County motorists should try to avoid Highway 51 today due to a pipe replacement.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, a portion of Highway 51 will be closed today from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm. The work zone will be located between County Roads 629 and 659.
MULTIPLE CROSSING REPAIR PROJECTS SET FOR THIS WEEKEND
The Missouri Department of Transportation says that multiple Railroad repair projects have been scheduled for this weekend.
Route D in Stoddard County will be closed from 7 am to 6 pm Saturday as railroad company crews perform crossing repairs.
The section of roadway to be closed is located from Route 25 to County Road 717.
Crews will also be closing Route D in Dunklin County Sunday from 7 am to 6 pm to repair a railroad crossing between Route 25 and County Road 102A.
WEEK LONG DRAINAGE REPAIR PROJECT BEGINNING TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY
Highway 61 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane over the next week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform drainage repairs.
The work zone is located from County Road 320 to Route 162.
Weather permitting, work will performed today through Friday, January 23rd from 8 am to 4 pm daily.
MISSOURI LAWMAKER PROPOSES BAN ON CORPORAL PUNISHMENT IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS
(AP) - Proposed Missouri legislation would ban the use of spanking or paddling by educators in public schools.
Democratic state Senator Joe Keaveny of St. Louis this week filed a bill to prohibit corporal punishment in those schools.
Missouri is one of 19 states that allow teachers to hit children as a form of discipline.
Local school boards are responsible for deciding whether educators can use corporal punishment and whether parents must be notified if it's used. School boards also can determine whether parents can opt for an alternative form of discipline.
Similar legislation that also would have banned spanking in private schools failed last year.
ECONOMIC SURVEY SUGGESTS WEAK ECONOMY IN MIDWEST
(AP) - A monthly survey of bankers suggests the economy will remain weak in rural parts of 10 Midwestern and Western states because of low grain and oil prices.
The region's overall economic index improved slightly to 50.9 in January from December's neutral score of 50. The index ranges from 0 to 100. Any score above 50 suggests growth while a score below 50 suggests decline.
Creighton University economist Ernie Goss says growth is being restrained in rural areas because of low corn and fuel prices. But bankers say ethanol plants haven't slowed production much.
Despite the concerns, rural businesses have adding some jobs. The January hiring index was 52.8, down from December's 55.2.
Bankers from 10 states including Missouri and Illinois were surveyed.
NEW MISSOURI HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES RULES AIMED AT INCREASING TRANSPARENCY
(AP) - The Missouri House will require most bills to go through two committees before moving to the full chamber this year.
The House adopted rules Thursday requiring bills to pass through a regular committee and then a select committee before being sent to the floor.
House Majority Leader Todd Richardson, of Poplar Bluff, says the process will bring better vetting of legislation, more single-subject bills and improved transparency.
Democratic Representative John Rizzo, of Kansas City, says the changes will improve the legislative process.
But Rizzo failed in an attempt to change the rules to allow lawmakers to draft amendments after a bill is brought up and introduce the amendment before it's fully distributed.
Richardson says distributing amendments in advance keeps the process transparent.
January 15, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 011515
AREA MAN SENTENCED ON MULTIPLE CHARGES
An area man is facing seven years in prison on gun and drug charges.
According to the Daily American Republic, 35 year old Derek Blackmon, of Poplar Bluff, was sentenced Tuesday on charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.
Methanphetamine and a firearm were reportedly found during a search of Blackmon’s residence in May of 2013.
MAN WANTED IN CONNECTION TO NORTHEAST ARKANSAS POLICE SHOOTING TAKEN INTO CUSTODY
A man who was wanted in connection to a shooting involving police in Northeast Arkansas has been arrested.
According to authorities, Brandon Johnson was arrested Wednesday in Crittenden County. He is facing charges including aggravated assault.
Johnson was reportedly shot by police during an incident last week. He was taken to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries, but left the hospital Monday morning.
NAME RELEASED OF MAN INVOLVED IN STANDOFF IN SCOTT COUNTY
Scott County authorities have released the identity of a man involved in a standoff with police Tuesday night.
According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 53 year old Kenneth Eugene Cummins Sr., of Chaffee, was arrested. Cummins had allegedly struck a family member and attempted to shoot a gun at them prior to the standoff.
The family members were able to escape the home and contact authorities.
Cummins is facing charges of first degree domestic assault, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
FORMER CARTER COUNTY COLLECTOR ENTERS GUILTY PLEA
A former county collector for Carter County has entered a guilty plea to a charge of misdemeanor stealing.
Authorities say Jennifer Clark-Williams, of Van Buren, pled guilty to the charge on Monday and that she will be required to pay restitution before her sentencing, potentially in February.
Clark-Williams reportedly admitted to taking over $5000 from county funds in order to pay personal bills.
Clark-Williams resigned from her position as county collector in October 2012.
HOME HEALTH WORKER ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY STEALING FROM PATIENT
A home health worker is facing charges out of Baxter County for allegedly stealing from a patient.
According to the Baxter County Sheriff, 53 year old Mary Close, of Yellville, admitted to stealing prescription medication from one of her patients. The victim had found that 18 Alprazolam and 20 Tramadol pills were missing after Close left the residence.
Close is facing charges of possession of a schedule four controlled substance and theft of property.
MATTHEWS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PUT ON LOCKDOWN FOR ALMOST AN HOUR WEDNESDAY
A Southeast Missouri elementary school was put on lockdown for almost an hour Wednesday afternoon.
According to KFVS, police were in the area of Matthews Elementary School during the pursuit of a man who ran during a warrant check.
During the incident, the school was on lockdown for around 45 minutes. The lockdown was lifted and the students were allowed to leave, however the man was not apprehended.
PARAGOULD RESIDENT WINS $100,000 FROM SCRATCHERS TICKET
A Paragould resident got a big surprise recently from a lottery ticket.
Danny Gibbins purchased a “$100,000 Taxes Paid” scratchers ticket from a liquor store in Cardwell to discover that it was a top prize $100,000 ticket.
Gibbon’s ticket was the first of four total top prizes that could be claimed from the “$100,000 Taxes Paid” tickets.
BRIDGE REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY
Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Wayne County today and tomorrow for bridge repairs on Route A.
During the repairs, Route A will be reduced to one lane between County Road 371 and Route 67. Work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 2 pm each day.
TRANSPORTATION OFFICIAL PRESENTS PLAN FOR MISSOURI HIGHWAYS
(AP) - The state's top transportation official has proposed fully maintaining only one-quarter of Missouri's highways because of a funding shortfall.
The Missouri Department of Transportation would focus on primary roads connecting communities under a proposal presented Wednesday to the state's transportation commission.
Transportation director Dave Nichols says the state is projected to have just $325 million for construction and maintenance, which is enough to fully maintain about 8,000 miles of roads.
A three-quarters cent state sales tax to fund transportation failed in August, and no alternative has emerged.
Under the plan, some busy local roads in major cities would be secondary routes and only receive minimal maintenance, including snow plowing, pothole patching and road striping.
The proposal is to be considered by state Highway and Transportation Commission next month.
January 14, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 011415
JONESBORO MAN SENTENCED ON MURDER CHARGE
(AP) - A 21 year old Jonesboro man has been sentenced to 47 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to his role in a 2013 slaying.
KAIT reports that Garrett Allen Chamblis pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and abuse of a corpse charges. He won't be eligible for parole for at least 25 years.
Chamblis was charged in the August 2013 death of 66 year old Harold Hagar of Newport. Hagar's body was left on a rural Jackson County road.
After the crime, prosecutors said Chamblis used Hagar's car to flee to Jonesboro, where it was later found burned in Craighead Forest Park.
MAN IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING STANDOFF WITH POLICE
One man is in custody following police standoff Tuesday night in Scott County.
According to KFVS, the man had reportedly barricaded himself inside a home during a domestic disturbance. The standoff caused a portion of Highway 77 to be closed for almost two hours.
The man, whose name was not released, was convinced to leave the home and was arrested.
MISSING BOLLINGER COUNTY WOMAN FOUND
A woman, who officials in Bollinger County had reported missing on Monday, has been located.
According to the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Department, 34 year old Brandi Lee was found at a home Tuesday morning.
Authorities say she was safe, but have released no further details at this time.
MAN SENTENCED TO FIVE YEARS ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGE
A northeast Arkansas man is facing five years in prison on a child pornography charge.
According to KAIT, 26 year old Joshua Collins, of Jonesboro, was sentenced to 60 months after pleading guilty to a charge of distributing/possessing/viewing matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child.
Numerous images of child pornography were reportedly found on a laptop during a search of Collins’ apartment.
ILLINOIS MAN ARRESTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY ON MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES
An Illinois man is facing multiple drug charges in connection to his arrest early Tuesday morning in Cape Girardeau County.
35 year old Adam Beck, of McClure, Illinois, was arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, cocaine; possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute; and driving while intoxicated, according to a report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
POLICE CHASE LEADS TO ARREST OF CHARLESTON MAN
A chase involving police officers has resulted in the arrest of a Charleston man.
A police officer attempted to pull over 29 year old Jeremy Warren in Miner, however Warren allegedly sped up and tried to elude the officer.
The chase went from Miner to Sikeston, where Warren’s vehicle faltered and he was taken into custody. Warren is facing charges including resisting arrest and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
24TH ANNUAL JAZZ FEST TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH AT TINNIN FINE ARTS CENTER
The 24th annual Three Rivers College Jazz Band Festival has been scheduled for next month at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.
The multi night festival will feature concerts by area junior high, high school and Three Rivers College jazz bands on Thursday, February 12th; the Arkansas State University Jazz Ensemble on Friday, February 13th; and the 2015 All-District High School Jazz Band on Saturday, February 14th.
The All-District Jazz Band is a select group of the best high school jazz students in the Southeast Missouri District 10 chosen by audition.
The free concerts will each begin at 7 pm.
SHOULDER REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN STODDARD COUNTY
A portion of Route O in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane this week for shoulder repairs.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route O will be reduced daily from 10 am to 3 pm through Friday. The work zone will be located between Highway 25 and Route P.
MISSOURI BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVES MINIMUM SCORES ON NEW TESTS
(AP) - Missouri is moving forward with testing for the national Common Core educational standards for schoolchildren.
The State Board of Education this week approved minimum scores on new assessments to gauge how well students perform on the tests.
Missouri students will take the new test aligned with the Common Core standards for the first time this spring. The national standards in Common Core set goals for what students should learn in kindergarten through high school.
A state law passed last year prohibits scores from the first year of testing to be used against schools.
There are no estimates for how well Missouri children will do on the test, but nationally between 32 and 39 percent of students in states with Common Core are expected score at proficient levels.
MISSOURI SUPREME COURT ISSUES RULING ON SOME SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS
(AP) - The Missouri Supreme Court is limiting the sales tax exemptions for items used for construction.
In three separate cases Tuesday, the high court barred businesses from claiming sales tax breaks on cranes, asphalt and steel beams used in constructing buildings and paving roads.
Business groups quickly vowed to pursue legislation that would effectively reverse those rulings.
Tracy King is the vice president of government affairs at the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry. She says she will be working with others to craft a bill as soon as next week.
King contends that the Supreme Court has misinterpreted the Legislature's intent and that the rulings incorrectly limit the types of manufacturing that should qualify for a sales tax exemption.
January 13, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 011315
TWO CHARGED WITH MURDER IN SIKESTON MAN’S DEATH
Two men have been charged with first degree murder in the death of a Sikeston man on Sunday.
According to the Sikeston Police Department, 31 year old Christopher Qurvon West was found with a single gunshot wound to the head.
An investigation has lead to 27 year old William Henry-Applewhite III and 29 year old Gailon Lamarous Applewhite, both of Sikeston, being charged with first degree murder and armed criminal action. Police say it appears that the suspects may have been searching for West to retaliate for a previous assault.
Both men are considered armed and extremely dangerous. Anyone with information on their whereabouts is asked to call 573-471-4711.
WOMAN REPORTED MISSING IN BOLLINGER COUNTY
The Bollinger County Sheriff’s Office reported an endangered missing person on Monday.
The Sherriff’s Office says that 34 year old Brandi Lee left her residence on foot Monday at around 12:30 pm. Lee is described as 5’1” tall and weighing 95 pounds.
She was also wearing a heavy pink coat. Authorities are searching for Lee and anyone with information is asked to call 573-238-2633.
A picture of Lee is available on our Facebook page.
MAN SHOT BY POLICE ESCAPES HOSPITAL
Authorities say a man who was shot by police last week has gone missing.
Brandon Johnson was reportedly shot by police during an incident Friday. Johnson was taken to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
He then left the hospital Monday morning. Johnson is facing charges including aggravated assault and anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Jonesboro Police Department.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT REPORTEDLY STOLEN FROM CAPE GIRARDEAU CONSTRUCTION SITE
A reward is being offered for information in connection to a recent theft in Cape Girardeau.
According to the Cape Girardeau Police Department, four different construction companies reported having tools and equipment stolen at a construction site at Saint Francis Medical Center.
The Police Department says that Kiefner Brothers Construction Company is offering up to $10,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of any suspect or suspects that is responsible for the thefts.
Anyone with information on the thefts is asked to contact the Cape Girardeau Police Department.
NO FOUL PLAY SUSPECTED IN KENNETT HOUSE FIRE
The Kennett Police Department says no foul play is suspected in a fire that caused one death on Sunday.
An autopsy showed the victim, whose name was not released, died of smoke inhalation. The body of the victim was found following the report of a residence being on fire Sunday morning shortly after 4 am.
Two other people were able to escape the home.
ONE ARRESTED ON ARSON CHARGE IN KENNETT FIRE
One person is in custody following a structure fire in Kennett.
According to the Kennett Police Department, at 3 am Monday morning the Kennett Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire at a location on East Third Street.
Following an investigation, the fire was determined to be suspicious. 21 year old Christian Morse, of Kennett, has been arrested for second degree arson.
MOBILE OFFICE TO BE HELD TOMORROW IN RIPLEY COUNTY
U.S. Senator Roy Blunt’s staff will host a Mobile Office on Wednesday, January 14th in Doniphan.
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 from 9:30 to 10:30 am at the Ripley County Courthouse.
VET CENTER TO BE MAKING MULTIPLE STOPS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI THIS WEEK
The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center’s Vet Center will be making multiple stops this week in Southeast Missouri.
The Vet Center will be staffed with people who can help Veterans learn more about the benefits to which they are entitled. They also offer free readjustment counseling for Veterans who want to talk to someone.
The Vet Center will be in Van Buren today from 1 to 4 pm. Additional stops include from 1 to 4 pm Wednesday in Doniphan, from 8 to 11 am Thursday in Piedmont and from 1 to 4 pm Thursday in Poplar Bluff.
There will also be a stop from 8 to 11 am Friday in Ellington. For more information, including exact locations for the Vet Centers, contact the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center.
NEW GUN RESTRICTION PROPOSED FOR THOSE FOUND GUILTY OF DOMESTIC ASSAULT
A bill would make it illegal for Missourians found guilty of domestic assault to possess a firearm.
The legislation recently filed by Democratic state Representative Stacey Newman of St. Louis would restrict gun possession in multiple instances of domestic violence or suspected domestic assault.
Anyone under a restraining order that cites threats of violence also would be banned from owning a gun.
The bill also would allow police to remove a gun from the scene if domestic assault is suspected.
The firearm owner could take back the weapon within two weeks of any proceedings related to a suspected assault.
Police would be required to safely store the firearm during that time.
POSSIBLE NEW TAX CREDIT COULD ENCOURAGE MORE MISSOURI FARMERS
A state lawmaker says proposed tax incentives could encourage more young farmers in Missouri.
State Senator Brian Munzlinger of Williamstown announced legislation Monday to give tax credits to landowners who lease land to beginning farmers.
The Republican says the incentives are important to recruit younger workers now that the average age of Missouri farmers and ranchers has reached 56.
Landowners who pay farmers to grow crops or care for livestock on their property also would get a tax credit. The credits would each be capped at $50,000 a year.
Missouri could give up to $12 million in incentives each year.
Other provisions in the bill would give tax incentives to landowners who sell to new farmers and would create a beginning farmer center with the University of Missouri's extension program.
January 12, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 011215
POPLAR BLUFF MAN SENTENCED ON SEX ABUSE CHARGES
A Poplar Bluff man has been sentenced to three 15 year terms in prison on several sex related charges.
According to a release from the Poplar Bluff Police Department, 49 year old Samuel Gonzales pled guilty to the charges of Statutory Sodomy, Abuse of a Child, and Sexual Exploitation of a Child in Jefferson County Court.
The convictions are the result of a multi-jurisdictional investigation which combined the efforts of Investigators with the Poplar Bluff Police Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the Southeast Missouri Cybercrimes Task Force, and Missouri ICAC.
SIKESTON POLICE INVESTIGATE WEEKEND HOMICIDE
Police in Sikeston are investigating a weekend shooting that left one man dead.
Few details have been released at this time, however it is known that the shooting occurred near Smith Street, just south of Missouri Delta Medical Center. Authorities say a subject was shot in the center turn lane of North Main Street. The suspect then fled the scene and left the victim in his vehicle.
Sikeston officers arrived on the scene to find the victim dead with gunshot wounds.
MOBILE HOME FIRE CLAIMS LIFE OF ONE
Officials in Kennett are investigating a mobile home fire that claimed the life of one person early Sunday morning.
Authorities say fire fighters responded a call shortly after 4 am about a home fire on Neal Street. When they arrived, the mobile home was 90 percent engulfed in flames.
An investigation revealed that three people had been inside when the fire broke out. Two people were able to escape the structure. A third person was unable to and was later found deceased. The victim’s name has not yet been released. An autopsy has been scheduled for this morning.
Anyone with any information about the fire is asked to contact authorities at 573-888-4622.
DEXTER MAN FATALLY INJURED IN CRASH WHEN THROWN FROM VEHICLE
A Dexter man was fatally injured in a single vehicle crash Saturday in Butler County.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports 36 year old Trennis J. Talley was driving on Highway C, about two miles south of Poplar Bluff, when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and overturned. Talley was thrown from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. The crash occurred shortly before 2:30 am.
Talley was not wearing his safety device at the time of the accident.
GIDEON MAN DIES IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH
A weekend single vehicle wreck has claimed the life of a 21 year old Gideon man.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Byron M. Windham-Sharp was travelling on County Road 248 in New Madrid County, about one mile west of Tallapoosa. They say Windham-Sharp lost control of his vehicle, running off the right side of the road, striking a telephone box and then running off a bridge and overturning into a ditch.
The crash occurred at around 2 am Saturday. Windham-Sharp’s body was not discovered until Sunday. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
BODY FOUND OUTSIDE WILSON CITY HOME, NO FOUL PLAY SUSPECTED
Authorities say no foul play is suspected after a woman’s body was discovered outside a Wilson City home.
The body of 41 year old Jeannie Sloan was discovered Saturday morning. Mississippi County Coroner Terry Parker says cold weather may have been a factor in the death. Parker says he does not suspect foul play. Sloan’s body was discovered wearing no clothes.
The case is being investigated by the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
ARKANSAS STATE POLICE INVESTIGATE OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING IN JONESBORO
A police officer involved shooting in Jonesboro is under investigation by the Arkansas State Police.
Authorities say the shooting happened Friday afternoon when agents with the 2nd Judicial Drug Task Force attempted to serve a warrant on an unnamed individual.
They say while officers were serving the warrant, the suspect pulled into the driveway and attempted to hit several officers with his vehicle. Police fired on the suspect.
The suspect was treated at an area hospital.
KENNETT POLICE SEARCHING FOR MAN ACCUSED OF ASSAULT
Police in Kennett are searching for a man who is accused of assauting his ex-girlfriend at Walmart Friday.
Authorities say they are looking for Joshua Hamlett, of Kennett.
Hamlett is facing charges of domestic assault, endangering the welfare of a child and violation of a protection order.
ARKANSAS RECEIVES C- IN REVISED EDUCATION REPORT CARD
(AP) Arkansas ranked 36th among 50 states in a newly released national report card on education that two years ago listed Arkansas as fifth in the nation.
The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports that the national publication Education Week gave Arkansas an overall score of 70.2 out of 100 points, the letter grade equivalent of a C-. The nation as a whole received a score of 74.3, or a C.
Sterling Lloyd, a research associate with the Education Week Research Center and project manager for the 2015 report, says the rankings aren't comparable because the ranking system changed.
Lloyd says previous Quality Counts reports that ranked Arkansas fifth in the nation relied on three categories that focused on states' education policies. Lloyd says those three policy-related categories are no longer included.
January 9, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 010915
BROSELEY MAN ARRESTED ON BURGLARY WARRANT
A Broseley man was taken into custody Thursday morning on a felony warrant out of Ripley County.
According to the Highway Patrol, 30 year old Jeffrey Vest was arrested in Butler County on a warrant for Burglary.
Vest is also facing charges of no valid license and no seat belt.
WOMAN ARRESTED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY ON DRUG WARRANT
Authorities arrested a Holland, Missouri woman Thursday morning on a drug warrant.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 52 year old Tricia Benson was arrested shortly before 9:30 am in Pemiscot County.
Benson reportedly had a felony warrant out of Pemiscot County for possession and distribution of a controlled substance.
AREA HEALTH CENTER RECEIVES EQUIPMENT GRANT
An area heath center has been chosen to receive thousands of dollars worth of products through a grant program.
Missouri Highlands Health Care has received a donation of health care products under a grant from the Henry Schein Cares Global Product Donation Program.
The health center says the grant will enable it to more effectively carry out its mission and expand its ability to provide care to underserved population in Carter, Reynolds, Shannon, Iron, Ripley, Butler and Wayne counties.
DEADLINE APPROACHING TO HAVE HEALTH INSURANCE AND AVOID PENALTIES
The deadline to have health insurance and avoid a tax penalty is approaching.
According to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center, under the Affordable Care Act, 2015 is the first year Americans must prove they had qualifying health insurance, or an approved exemption, for the previous year or face a tax penalty.
For 2015, if you don’t obtain insurance by February 15th, 2015, the penalty will be applied to your annual taxable income for each full month you don't have health insurance in 2015. February 15th is also the last day of open enrolment to sign up for health
insurance on the Health Insurance Marketplace.
Area residents can get help with the enrolment process at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center. For more information, call 573-776-9072.
MINOR MUNICIPAL COURT RATED POOR IN STATE AUDIT
An audit of an area court has resulted in charges for a former city clerk.
State Auditor Tom Schweich released the audit of the
Thirty-Third Judicial Circuit, City of Miner Municipal Division yesterday. In the areas audited, the court was rated poor.
An investigation into possible missing monies resulted in the Miner City Clerk being fired in October and then charged with felony theft/stealing in December.
LAWMAKER PROPOSES BAN ON BUYING ENERGY DRINKS WITH SNAP FUNDS
A Missouri lawmaker wants to ban recipients of a federal food assistance program from using those benefits to buy buyambienmed.com energy drinks.
Democratic state Rep. Keith English of Florissant filed legislation recently to prevent Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program funds from buying the drinks.
Eligible low-income families receive monthly assistance to buy food through the program, which formerly was known as food stamps.
Recipients of the program still could buy coffee under the legislation.
The measure requires Missouri to request federal authorization if necessary to implement the ban on energy drinks.
MISSOURI SECRETARY OF STATE ANNOUNCES FILLING FEE CUT PROPOSAL
Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander is asking lawmakers to cut dozens of filing fees to help the state attract new businesses.
On Thursday, Kander announced the fee cut as part of his agenda for the 2015 legislative session.
The measure would slash numerous fees for corporations, limited liability companies and nonprofits filing paperwork with the secretary of state.
The proposal follows the July 2014 creation of a secretary of state website that allows businesses to file almost all forms online.
Other measures backed by Kander include bills to give some members of the military more time to register to vote or request an absentee ballot.
One bill also would give emergency workers longer to request absentee ballots, which could be faxed or emailed to them.
MISSOURI SCHOOLS INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN POSTER CONTEST
Schools across Missouri are being invited to participate in the 2015 National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest.
As a part of the contest, Missouri fifth grade students will create 11 x 14 posters that reflect the 2015 contest theme, “Bring Our Missing Children Home.”
Each school will select a winner and submit the entry to the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Missing Persons Unit. One Missouri poster will be given an overall first place award, and will then be automatically entered in the national competition.
More information about the contest is available online at www.mshp.dps.mo.gov.
January 8th, 2015
MISSOURI MAN ARRESTED FOR THE ALLEGED RAPE OF TWO TEENS
A St. Joseph, Missouri man is in custody in Northeast Arkansas for the alleged rape of two teenagers in Jonesboro.
According to KAIT, 29 year old Christopher Daniel Franklin was arrested earlier this week in connection to the incident which allegedly occurred during Memorial Day Weekend last year.
Franklin has been taken to the Craighead County Detention Center. ONE DEAD, TWO INJURED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK
One man has died from a wreck Tuesday in Baxter County.
According to the Arkansas State Police, 65 year old Norman Forshee, of Henderson, Arkansas, was pronounced dead at the scene of the wreck off of US 62.
Forshee was traveling east on the highway when another vehicle hit his vehicle from behind and forced it off the road. Forshee’s vehicle overturned multiple times and ejected him. Two other people were injured in the wreck. CHILD ABUSE INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST OF SCOTT CITY WOMAN
A Scott City woman is in custody following a child abuse investigation.
According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 35 year old Crystal Dawn Kennedy is facing charges of abuse or neglect of a child and 2nd degree domestic assault.
Tuesday afternoon a deputy responded to a residence to follow up on a report of abuse from the Missouri Department of Social Services.
The deputy conducted an investigation along with a DFS Investigator and observed visible signs of injury on the head of a child living at the residence. Kennedy was arrested as a result of the investigation. JONESBORO MAN ARRESTED ON ASSAULT CHARGE
A Jonesboro man is facing charges following an alleged assault.
According to KAIT, 25 year old Anthony Ray Allen reportedly punched a woman in the face and threatened her with a machete Tuesday night.
Allen allegedly attempted to run when confronted by police and wrestled with officers before he was arrested.
Allen is facing a chage of aggravated assault on a family or household member, along with resisting arrest and domestic battering. ONE ARRESTED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGE
A Tallapoosa man was arrested Wednesday afternoon in New Madrid County on a drug charge.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 39 year old Dana Holmes was arrested on a charge of possession of a controlled substance – hydrocodone.
Holmes also reportedly had warrants out of Stoddard and Scott Counties.
MISSOURI BOATING AND TRAFFIC FATALITIES DOWN IN 2014
Preliminary statistics indicate that 2014 was a safer than 2013 on Missouri’s roadways and waterways.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 2014 saw a decrease in the number of traffic fatalities, boating fatalities, and drownings.
The number of traffic deaths has dropped in Missouri each year since 2005, with the only exception being 2012’s slight increase. In 2014 there were 753 traffic fatalities in Missouri, which is a 40 percent decrease from the 2005 total. DRAINAGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR STODDARD COUNTY
Route F in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane over the next week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform drainage repairs.
The work zone is located from Route 60 to County Road 462.
Weather permitting; work will take place today through Wednesday, January 14th from 7:30 am to 3 pm daily. GOVERNOR NIXON SPEAKS AGAINST PROPOSAL TO END GRAND JURY SYSTEM
Governor Jay Nixon says he doesn't support ending the grand jury system in Missouri.
Nixon said before the start of the 2015 annual legislative session Wednesday that he's against a proposal to end grand juries, a measure prompted after a grand jury failed to indict a white Ferguson police officer who fatally shot a black 18-year-old August 9th.
Democratic state Representative Brandon Ellington of Kansas City filed a joint resolution to repeal that measure in the Missouri Constitution.
The resolution was one of many pieces of legislation filed to address Michael Brown's shooting, which sparked protests nationwide.
Proposals with the best chance of passing appear to be ones that would curb the revenue cities can receive from traffic fines, which protesters say can unfairly lead to arrests of low-income residents.
River Radio News 010715
POPLAR BLUFF MAN CHARGED WITH ENTICING A CHILD
A Poplar Bluff man is facing a felony charge in connection to an alleged incident involving a child.
According to the Daily American Republic, 23 year old Geren William Klusmeier has been charged with enticement of a child.
Klusmeier is alleged to have pulled his pants down and asked a child, who was less than 14 years old, to inappropriately touch him. Klusmeier reportedly denied the allegations.
ONE DEAD FOLLOWING FIRE IN WALNUT RIDGE
A Northeast Arkansas man was found dead following a house fire on Tuesday.
According to KAIT, the body of 52 year old Timothy Harris, of Walnut Ridge, was found in the home.
The cause of the fire is under investigation; however Walnut Ridge authorities say that foul play is not suspected in the death.
WOMAN ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY PULLING GUN ON MAN
A woman has been arrested following a report that she pulled a gun on in a man during an argument.
According to the Caruthersville Police Department, officers received the report Sunday from a man who said the 27 year old woman pulled the handgun on him while they were both in a vehicle.
The female was questioned and then arrested. She was held pending the filing of formal charges of armed criminal action and unlawful use of a weapon. The name of the woman was not released.
$3,000 DONATED TO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL
An area business has donated thousands of dollars to Poplar Bluff Schools.
$3,000 was donated by the Briggs and Stratton Corporation Foundation on December 22nd.
The school has not released what the money will be used for; however previous years donations have gone towards the purchase of playground equipment at Eugene Field Elementary and the Kindergarten Center.
SEVERAL POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS HONORED FOR THEIR PATRIOTISM
Several Poplar Bluff students were recently honored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars and its Ladies Auxiliary for their patriotism.
On December 15th, Poplar Bluff High School juniors Chase Burch, Nikkia Hickman and Stephanie Hobbs were awarded by VFW Post 6477 for their winning essays in the Voice of Democracy contest. Hickman was also named a district winner. The theme was why veterans are important to our nation’s history and future.
Two teachers, Gail Rosmarin and Craig Hamilton, were also given awards for promoting America’s history and traditions effectively, instilling a sense of national pride in their students.
MOBILE OFFICE SCHEDULED FOR THURSDAY IN CHARLESTON
Staff members of Untied States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Charleston tomorrow to host a mobile office.
A mobile office is an opportunity for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.
The meeting will be held from 9:30 am to 10:30 am Thursday at the BANC Service Corporation in Charleston.
INTERSTATE 57 TO BE REDUCED IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY
Missouri Department of Transportation crews will be performing bridge repairs over the next week and a half in Mississippi County.
Northbound Interstate 57 will be reduced to one lane at the Route UU overpass during the repairs.
Weather permitting, work is scheduled to be performed daily from 7:30 am to 3 pm through Friday, January 16th.
MISSOURI LEGISLATIVE SESSION TO BEGIN TODAY
Missouri lawmakers are vowing to address ethics, education and issues related to the fatal shooting of a black 18-year-old by a white Ferguson police officer during their 2015 legislative session.
The annual session starts today and ends May 15th.
Republicans head into the session with a veto-proof majority in both chambers, including never-before-seen numbers in the House with 117 Republicans. Legislators also could use new budget powers to override spending restrictions by Democratic Governor Jay Nixon.
Priorities for lawmakers include revisions to Missouri's ethics laws and student transfer laws for struggling schools.
Other proposals would curb traffic fines and require police to wear body cameras in an attempt to address issues raised after Ferguson police Officer Darren Wilson shot Michael Brown.
HEALTH INSURANCE COMPANY AGREES TO PAY MISSOURI FOLLOWING FALSE CLAIMS
A health insurance company is agreeing to pay Missouri more than $161,000 for falsely claiming a state law required customers' policies be replaced with Affordable Care Act benefits.
The Missouri Department of Insurance on Tuesday announced Humana Insurance Co. agreed to pay a $161,800 to the Missouri State School Fund for the misstatements.
A Humana spokesman had no immediate comment Tuesday.
A statement from the insurance department says the company sent notices to 1,618 Missourians in August 2013 stating that their policies would be canceled and replaced with Affordable Care Act benefits.
The department says Humana falsely claimed the changes would be made because of a Missouri law.
No such state legislation exists.
Humana contended in the settlement agreement that the notices were false but not intentionally misleading.
STATE SENATOR PUSHING DEER LEGISLATION
A Missouri lawmaker is again pushing legislation that would shift regulation of farm-raised deer to state agriculture officials.
Republican Senator Brian Munzlinger of Williamstown recently refiled a bill to define farmed deer as livestock instead of as wildlife.
The measure failed after it was combined with other agricultural proposals last session. Democratic Governor Jay Nixon vetoed the bill because of the captive deer provision.
Legislative leaders have said they plan to address agriculture measures individually instead of as a package to avoid another veto.
If passed, the deer-farming bill would allow farmers to sell the animals' meat, which wouldn't be subject to sales taxes.
Farms couldn't keep more than seven deer per acre of land and would be subject to annual inspections by the Department of Agriculture.
RIVER RADIO NEWS 010615
NEW MADRID COUNTY AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING STOLEN EXCAVATOR
A John Deere Excavator was recently stolen from a Southeast Missouri graveyard.
According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, the excavator was taken Monday morning from the Mounds Park Cemetery. It had been dropped off earlier Monday and an employee noticed it was gone a couple hours later.
Anyone with information on the theft is asked to contact the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department.
MINOR KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK
A minor was killed over the weekend in a Northeast Arkansas wreck.
According to the Arkansas State Police, the wreck occurred Saturday night in Craighead County. The minor’s vehicle reportedly ran off the roadway, hit a ditch, and overturned.
The name of the minor was not released.
33 PINTS OF BLOOD COLLECTED DURING RIVER RADIO BLOOD DRIVE
The River Radio Blood Drive produced over 30 pints of blood for the American Red Cross.
According to the Red Cross, a total of 33 pints of blood was collected at the blood drive on December 29th at the Greater Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce.
The Red Cross says that each pint of blood has the potential to save up to three lives.
AUTHORITIES LOOKING FOR SUSPECT IN CONNECTION TO LIQUOR STORE ROBBERY
Authorities are searching for a Corning man following the robbery of an area liquor store.
Authorities are looking for 52 year old Lonnie Blanton in connection to the robbery of State Line Liquor Store Saturday night. Blanton was identified from surveillance footage from the store.
The Clay County Sheriff says that Blanton is considered armed and dangerous.
POPLAR BLUFF TEEN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE
A Poplar Bluff teenager was taken into custody Monday morning on multiple charges.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 19 year old Tyler Hathaway was arrested shortly before 9 am on charges including possession of a controlled substance – hydrocodone and failure to register a motor vehicle.
Hathaway was arrested in Butler County.
FRAUDSTER REPORTEDLY USING NAME OF POPLAR BLUFF POLICE OFFICIAL
The Poplar Bluff Police Department is warning area residents of a fraudster who is using the name of a police official.
The suspect has identified himself as “Deputy Jeff Rolland with Butler County”; and threatened to arrest the victims if they did not pay an $800.00 bond using prepaid credit cards.
In previous complaints, a suspect posed as a member of the victim’s family; said they had been arrested; and asked the victim to pay their bond using a prepaid credit card.
The Police Department says bond money will not be collected over the phone. Anyone who receives one of these calls is advised to hang up and contact local law enforcement.
NINE FATALITIES REPORTED IN MISSOURI DURING NEW YEARS COUNTING PERIOD
The Missouri State Highway Patrol says that 9 people were killed and 42 injured in 344 traffic crashes during the New Year’s Counting period.
The holiday counting period went from 6 pm, December 31st to 11:59 pm January 4th.
Only one of the fatalities reported was in Southeast Missouri. In addition, troopers made 90 arrests for driving while intoxicated during the 102-hour counting period.
REPAIRS SET THIS WEEK FOR ROUTE 80 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY
Route 80 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform edge rut repairs.
The work zone is located between Route AA and County Road 706.
Weather permitting, work will performed through Thursday, January 8th from 9:30 am to 3 pm daily.
TICKETS GO ON SALE FRIDAY FOR MIRANDA LAMBERT CONCERT IN CAPE GIRARDEAU
A Grammy nominated county music artist will be performing next month in Cape Girardeau.
Miranda Lambert’s Certified Platinum Tour will be making a stop at the Show Me Center on Thursday, February 26th. Doors will open at 6:30 pm, with the concert beginning at 7:30 pm. Lambert will be joined by special guest Rae Lynn during the concert.
Tickets are set to go on sale this Friday beginning at 10 am.
MISSOURI LAWMAKER PROPOSES SPEED LIMIT INCREASE ON SOME RURAL INTERSTATES AND FREEWAYS
A state lawmaker wants to increase the speed limit on Missouri's rural interstates and freeways from 70 mph.
State Representative Mike Kelley of Lamar filed legislation recently to boost the speed limit on those roads to 75 mph.
Kansas increased speed limits from 70 mph on some roads in 2011.
The Kansas City Star reports traffic-related fatalities and injuries in Kansas are up on roads with newly increased 75 mph speed limits. But transportation officials say it's too early to blame that on the speed limit.
Numbers from the Kansas Transportation Department show a 54 percent increase in highways deaths on those roads since the speed limit was raised. Injuries are up about 13 percent compared with the two years before the new speed limit went into effect.
ARKANSAS REVENUE OVER 44 MILLION DOLLARS HIGHER THAN EXPECTED
Finance officials say Arkansas' revenue is $44.1 million higher than expected halfway through the fiscal year after corporate tax collections boosted the state's coffers last month.
The Department of Finance and Administration said Monday that December's net available revenue totaled $482.8 million - $10.7 million higher than December 2013 and $19.3 million above forecast. The state's revenue for the fiscal year, which began July 1, totals nearly $2.6 billion.
Revenue last month was boosted primarily by corporate income tax collections that were $21.7 million above December 2013 and $21.1 million above forecast. Sales and individual income tax collections were both below forecast last month.
The report is the final one before the Legislature convenes for this year's session and incoming Republican Governor Asa Hutchinson is sworn in next week.
REVENUES UP OVER FIVE PERCENT IN MISSOURI
Missouri's revenues are up more than 5 percent this fiscal year and the state's budget chief says that means the governor will likely not need to further freeze spending.
Revenue figures released Monday show net general revenues for December are up 10.7 percent compared to last year.
Individual income tax collections were up 9.6 percent last month and up 6.3 percent from July through December.
State budget director Linda Luebbering says the bump in December is a sign that people are feeling better about the economy.
Luebbering says the 5.1 percent growth is just shy of the estimated 5.2 percent Governor Jay Nixon's been using to guide spending restrictions. She says more restrictions likely are unnecessary.
More than $700 million in funds still are frozen.
January 5, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 010515
MAN SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO INCIDENT IN JONESBORO
Authorities in Jonesboro are searching for a man in connection to an incident Friday morning.
According to KAIT, a woman told officers that Mario Barber had broke into her home, choked her and knocked her to the ground.
Barber, who is the victim’s ex-boyfriend, also allegedly said that he was going to kill the woman. Another person saw the incident and alerted police.
Barber reportedly fled the scene in a vehicle.
AUTHORITIES REPORTEDLY FIND METH DURING A TRAFFIC STOP IN KENNETT
A Dora man was reportedly taken into custody during a traffic stop in Kennett.
According to the Kennett Police Department, Kevin R. Smith was arrested for possession of a controlled substance after officer's located an undisclosed amount of methamphetamine and several prescription pills which the suspect had thrown out of the vehicle window.
Smith was arrested shortly before 1 am Saturday.
MAN REPORTS ATTEMPTED ROBBERY IN JONESBORO
A man reported an attempted robbery in Northeast Arkansas on Saturday.
According to KAIT, the victim said that two men tried to force their way into his home at a Jonesboro apartment complex.
The victim was able to push the two men out of the apartment, they then fled the scene. The victim said one of the men had a gun. No arrests have been made in connection to the incident.
DEXTER WOMAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY
A Dexter woman was recently taken into custody in Stoddard County.
According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 25 year old Cassandra Hunsaker was arrested on a warrant for possession with intent to distribute.
The sheriff’s department did not release what substance Hunsaker was arrested for.
VOTING IS OPEN FOR BUTLER COUNTY EXTENSION COUNCIL
Voting has begun for six open spots on the Butler County University of Missouri Extension Council.
Twelve candidates have applied for the election which will run through the end of January. Council members are volunteers responsible for maintaining the University of Missouri Extension Center and for planning programs with the professional and paraprofessional MU Extension staff in Butler County.
More information about the candidates including how to cast your ballot is available online at extension.missouri.edu/butler.
ARCTIC AIR BRINGS FREEZING TEMPERATURES TO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI
A rather mild December is giving way to a colder January according to the National Weather Service.
In a Special Weather Statement, the NWS says that while an initial surge of arctic air brought temperatures into the teens this morning, colder air is set for later this week.
Gusty northwest winds will cause temperatures to fall to single digits and possibly to zero Wednesday night and early Thursday. Wind chill values will drop below zero, as well.
Area residents are strongly encouraged to limit any outdoor activities on Wednesday and Thursday. Everyone should also take precautions to keep water pipes from freezing and make sure that outdoor pets have adequate shelter.
DRAINAGE WORK SET FOR THIS WEEK IN BUTLER COUNTY
Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Butler County this week for drainage work in the Median of US 60.
During the repairs, US 60 will be reduced to one lane from County Road 410 to west of the Cane Creek Bridge west of County Road 411.
Weather permitting, work will begin this morning at 7 am and the lane will reopen at 3 pm Friday, January 9th. Work zone will be set-up for 24-hours a day.
OVER 30 BILLS TO BE FILED IN MISSOURI LEGISLATURE STEMMING FROM SHOOTING OF MICHAEL BROWN
The fatal police shooting of Michael Brown has led lawmakers in his home state to propose a flurry of legislation attempting to address concerns that have fueled nationwide protests.
When Missouri lawmakers convene Wednesday, nearly five months will have passed since Ferguson Police Officer Darren Wilson shot the unarmed black 18 year old after a scuffle in suburban St. Louis.
Three dozen bills stemming from Brown's shooting already have been filed. Some address when police officers can use deadly force and whether special prosecutors must be appointed when police kill people.
Others would require uniformed police to wear video cameras.
Still others attempt to address underlying racial tensions by requiring cultural diversity training for police and limiting the amount of money cities can reap from traffic fines and court costs.
ETHICS LEGISLATION TO BE DISCUSSED THIS YEAR BY MISSOURI LAWMAKERS
Missouri's legislative leaders say 2015 is the year they'll rein in lavish gifts from lobbyists and unchecked campaign donations.
But political scientists are skeptical ethics bills will pass after years of failure.
Interest in ethics gained momentum after an October New York Times article claimed Attorney General Chris Koster was influenced by lobbyist gifts and campaign contributions.
Lawmakers so far have filed 28 bills addressing current ethics laws, which currently allow limitless lobbyist spending on gifts and campaign contributions.
Proposals also include "cooling-off" periods to prevent lawmakers from going into lobbying immediately after leaving office.
But ethics legislation is introduced regularly and hasn't gone far in the past two previous sessions.
Missouri State University political scientist George Conner says smaller bills on ethics might pass, but meaningful reform is unlikely.
January 2, 2015
RIVER RADIO NEWS 010215
BODY CAMERAS DISTRIBUTED TO POPLAR BLUFF POLICE OFFICERS
The new year has brought a new change for Poplar Bluff Police officers.
According to the Daily American Republic, officers began wearing body cameras on New Year’s Day. The cameras were purchased for all 44 of the Police Department’s commissioned officers.
POCAHONTAS TEENAGER KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK
A Pocahontas teenager has died in a single vehicle wreck earlier this week.
According to the Arkansas State Police, 15 year old Summer Ungerrank was killed in a wreck on Monday in Randolph County. The driver of the vehicle Ungerrank was in had allegedly topped a hill at a high rate of speed and lost control.
The vehicle slid off the side of the road and struck two trees. The driver and a second passenger suffered undisclosed injuries.
PARK HILLS MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK
A Park Hills man was killed in a single vehicle wreck Thursday morning in St. Genevieve County.
According to the Highway Patrol, 31 year old Michael Derousse lost control of his vehicle before he hit an embankment and overturned.
He was reportedly wearing a safety device at the time of the wreck.
SCOTT CITY MAN FACING CHARGES FOLLOWING ALLEGED ASSAULT INVOLVING A HAMMER
A Scott City man is facing an assault charge following an alleged incident involving a hammer.
According to KFVS, 27 year old Dustin Smith is accused of assaulting a man with a hammer. The victim reportedly had a number of facial injuries.
Smith is facing charges of armed criminal action, first degree assault, first degree burglary, and first degree robbery.
SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR CHARGED WITH TRYING TO SELL STEROIDS
A southeast Missouri school superintendent is charged with trying to sell steroids through the mail.
Prosecutors say James Bell, of Pilot Knob, is charged with four felony drug counts involving the sale of steroids.
KSDK reports Bell is accused of trying to ship a package of performance enhancing drugs to California. The package contained 10 vials of a colored liquid and 300 white pills.
Bell is the superintendent of the Belleview School District in Iron County.
SIKESTON MAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES IN CONNECTION TO POLICE CHASE
A police chase in Scott County has lead to charges for a Sikeston man.
According to the Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 38 year old Deron McClinton, is facing charges of resisting arrest by fleeing and creating a substantial risk of injury or death to any person, along with operating a motor vehicle in a careless and imprudent manner.
McClinton allegedly lead sheriff’s deputies on a chase Tuesday evening that reached speeds of over 100 miles per hour.
NEW YEARS EVE CHASE LEADS TO ARREST OF MAN IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS
One man has been taken into custody following a chase with Jonesboro police.
According to authorities, Antonio Davis was arrested on charges, including fleeing and DWI.
The chase began at around 11 pm Wednesday night. Davis eventually lost control of the vehicle and attempted to run but was apprehended.
OVER 11,000 DEER KILLED THIS SEASON BY ALTERNATIVE MEANS
Hunters have killed more than 11,000 Missouri deer this season with crossbows, spear-throwers and other alternative weapons.
The Missouri Department of Conservation on Wednesday reported that hunters killed almost 1,000 fewer through alternative methods compared to the last deer hunting season.
Alternative methods include using center-fire pistols, bows and muzzle-loading firearms.
That portion of the season ran from December 20th to 30th.
Top harvest counties for this year were Oregon with 269 deer, Franklin with 248 and Howell with 244.
The archery hunting portion of the season is next and runs through January 15th.
December 31, 2014
RIVER RADIO NEWS 123114
POPLAR BLUFF COUNCILMAN RESIGNS
A Poplar Bluff Councilman has resigned.
According to the Daily American Republican, the city council accepted the resignation of Johnny Brannum on Monday. He was elected to the council in 2012, representing Ward 4.
Brannum cited his impending move outside of the city limits for the resignation.
MAN FACING CHARGES OF FORCIBLE SODOMY AND KIDNAPPING OUT OF DUNKLIN COUNTY
An Illinois man is facing charges out of Dunklin County, including forcible sodomy.
According to authorities, 56 year old Michael Dean, of Kampsville, Illinois, has been charged with three counts of forcible sodomy and kidnapping. Dean allegedly drugged and had intercourse with three men while they were unconscious.
Photos were found at the time of Dean’s arrest that showed men who were nude, handcuffed, and unconscious.
WOMAN ARRESTED AFTER ATTEMPTING TO HIT AN OFFICER
A Steele woman is facing charges following an incident with police officers at an area trailer park.
According to the Steele Police Department, officers were dispatched to the location in reference to a woman trying to stab her husband. When they arrived, they attempted to take a 50 year old Steele woman into custody. During the process, the woman allegedly took a swing at an officer’s face.
The woman, whose name was not released, was arrested on charges of domestic assault, resisting arrest and assault on law enforcement.
OFFICIALS WARNING OF JURY DUTY SCAM
Officials in Cape Girardeau are warning of a reported scam concerning jury duty.
According to the Cape Girardeau Sheriff’s Office, people are getting phone calls from a man who claims to be a Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s deputy. He says that the person will be arrested for failing to appear for jury duty unless they pay a fine immediately.
The Sheriff’s Office says the calls are not legitimate. Court officers won’t ask for personal information or seek payment for fines or fees over the phone. Most court related correspondence takes place through the mail. Authorities advise never to agree to send money to someone who calls you out of the blue.
DRAINAGE REPAIRS SET FOR THIS WEEK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY
Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in New Madrid County this week for drainage repairs on Highway 61.
During the repairs, Highway 61 will be reduced to one lane between County Road 314 and Highway 62. Work is scheduled to be performed daily through Friday from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm.
HIGHWAY PATROL REMINDS MOTORISTS TO DRIVE SAFELY TONIGHT
The Missouri State Highway patrol is reminding motorists to stay safe while celebrating the New Year tonight.
Last year in Missouri, there were 380 crashes, resulting in 147 injuries over the New Year’s counting period.
Remember to drive safe and if your plans involve alcohol, select a designated driver. The Patrol is also encouraging motorists to protect themselves from all types of hazardous drivers by making sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint.
OVER 100,000 MISSOURIANS USE FEDERAL WEBSITE TO SIGN UP FOR HEALTH INSURANCE
More than 100,000 Missouri residents have signed up for health insurance through a federally run website during the first month of enrollment.
The figures released Tuesday by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services show that about half of the Missourians who signed up are new enrollees, and the other half already had coverage through a HealthCare.gov policy.
People faced a December 15th enrollment deadline if they wanted their coverage to kick in when the new year begins Thursday. But people can still sign up for insurance through February 15th.
The federal figures show that 102,087 Missouri residents had selected a 2015 coverage plan through HealthCare.gov as of December 15th. About 150,000 people got health insurance through the website in 2014.
LAW GOING INTO EFFECT AIMS TO INCREASE ACCESS TO CHEMOTHERAPY PILLS
Cancer medicine that previously could cost thousands of dollars soon will cost Missourians at most $75 a month.
State lawmakers and cancer patient advocates say the new state law taking effect Thursday will increase access to chemotherapy pills.
They say those drugs typically have fewer harmful side effects compared to traditional intravenous chemotherapy.
But previously the pills cost patients thousands of dollars more than the IV procedure.
Other laws that will take effect in 2015 include one requiring that women be notified after a mammogram that dense breast tissue can hide signs of cancer.
Another mandates that the state create a handbook to help train adult daycare providers, and one will increase fees for companies that violate federal natural gas safety standards.