April 7, 2015

  RIVER RADIO NEWS 040715

POPLAR BLUFF MAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY VEHICLE

A Poplar Bluff man was struck and killed by a vehicle Sunday night in St. Francois County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 65 year old Raymond Taylor was walking on Highway 67 when he was hit by the vehicle. The Highway Patrol says Taylor was in the lane of traffic when he was struck.

The driver of the vehicle was uninjured.

TEENAGER CHARGED WITH MURDER IN CONNECTION TO NORTHEAST ARKANSAS SHOOTING

A teenager is facing a murder charge in connection to a shooting in Northeast Arkansas.

According to KAIT, the 17 year old Blytheville male has been charged with first degree murder in the death of 49 year old Lawless Kennedy.

Kennedy was reportedly shot last week. He later died at an area hospital. The name of the suspect has not yet been made available.

BENTON MAN FACING CHARGES AFTER SETTING FIRE TO HOME WITH FAMILY INSIDE

A Benton man is facing multiple charges after he allegedly set fire to a house with several people inside.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 25 year old Thomas R. McDonald has been charged with felony first degree arson, four counts of felony first degree domestic assault and felony endangering the welfare of a child.

Sheriff Walters says his department and fire fighting personnel were called to the scene of a house fire on County Road 333, outside of Benton on Sunday.

Deputies spoke to the homeowner, who said she believed McDonald intentionally set the fire because he had been in an altercation with the homeowner’s daughter the day before.

Sheriff Walters reports that several witnesses told him McDonald had admitted that he had set the fire, knowing the family was inside.

YEAR LONG SEARCH LEADS TO ARREST OF TWO MEN

A year long search has lead to the arrest of two men on a financial exploitation charge.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 63 year old Harry Marks and 22 year old Brandon Parker-Marks, of St. Peters  Missouri, were arrested early Monday morning for financial exploitation of the elderly.

Sheriff Walter states that in May of 2014 his office received information of a local business owner who had fallen victim to an elaborate scam involving the sale of more than $160,000 of heavy equipment to the Marks for a much lower price.

Detectives investigating the crime found that the Marks were part of the Roma Gypsy family, with a long list of properties spanning across the United States. While attempting to check these properties, detectives found the Marks had used fake names and false business information as a part of an ongoing scam.

Sheriff Walter says that during the investigation several potential victims have been discovered in neighboring states.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff man is facing drug charges following his arrest Monday afternoon.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 35 year old Donald Forsythe was arrested in Butler County on charges of possession of a controlled substance, xanax; possession of marijuana; and driving while suspended.

KENNETT MAN ARRESTED ON STALKING CHARGE

A Kennett man is facing a stalking charge in connection to an incident over the weekend.

According to the Kennett Police Department, Sunday afternoon officers were dispatched to an area of Legion Street in reference to a male reportedly harassing and attempting to entice a child. When officers arrived, the man had already fled on foot.

Officers were dispatched to the area again, less than two hours later. 36 year old Travis McGowin, of Kennett, was then taken into custody for aggravated stalking.

MISSOURI GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD TODAY

Missourians will be heading to the ballot box today to cast their vote for a variety of local issues.

Some seats to be decided in the General Municipal Election today include the Poplar Bluff City Council seat for Ward 4 along with two seats on the Board of Education for Poplar Bluff R-1.

There will also be proposition and bond issues decided in Neelyville and Bernie.

PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED FOR RAILROAD REPAIRS

Route J in Pemiscot County will be closed for the rest of the week as Railroad crews perform railroad crossing repairs.

The work zone is located between County Roads 405 and 408.

Work is set to take place today through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.

MISSOURI SUPREME COURT SEEKS INPUT ON MUNICIPAL COURTS

(AP) - The public is getting a chance to weigh in on potential changes to Missouri's municipal court policies and procedures.

The Missouri Supreme Court asked Thursday for public input about experiences with municipal courts and suggestions for changes that could improve that experience.

Missouri's municipal courts have come into focus following the shooting death of black, 18-year-old Michael Brown by a white police officer in Ferguson sparked sometimes violent protests.

A Department of Justice report found the city operated a profit-driven municipal court system that heightened tensions among black residents for years.

The report harshly criticized the functioning of the court, prompting the Supreme Court to replace the judge in Ferguson.

However, residents have cited problems with other area courts.

The Supreme Court says comments should be mailed by May 1^st.

FOSTER KIDS, SENIORS AFFECTED IN MISSOURI BUDGET PROPOSAL

(AP) - Governor Jay Nixon's top budget official says a Senate proposal would cut funding and hurt services for seniors, those with mental disabilities and foster kids.

The Senate is expected to debate the budget starting Tuesday. The current proposal includes cuts from House recommendations to the three departments that account for nearly half of the state's total budget.

Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Senator Kurt Schaefer says the social services, mental health and health and senior services departments need to be more efficient.

But budget director Linda Luebbering says the departments are dealing with increased caseloads and costs and need more money to provide services.

MISSOURI LAWMAKER PROPOSES TAX ON MARIJUANA, ILLEGAL DRUGS

(AP) - A Missouri Republican lawmaker is trying to tax marijuana and illegal drugs.

A proposal to require a tax stamp for drugs advanced in the Legislature last week. A vote of approval from a second House panel is needed before the bill can go before the full chamber for debate.

The National Conference of State Legislatures reports at least 20 other states now tax drugs.

For example, Nebraska taxes marijuana at $100 an ounce. Dealers face additional fees if caught selling without a tax stamp.

Last year, the NCSL reported Nebraska has collected at least $544,588 in fines since adopting the tax in 1991.

Missourians could anonymously purchase tax stamps under Republican Representative Shawn Rhoads' proposal. The bill would not legalize possession of marijuana or other drugs.

April 6, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 040615  

AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR MISSING QULIN MAN

Authorities will continue the search for a missing Qulin man today.

According to KFVS, crews are searching for 40 year old Jamie Ferrill.

The search was paused on Sunday in order to let water recede in the search area. Ferrill’s truck reportedly got stuck in the mud Thursday night by a drainage ditch for Black River.

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING WRECK IN CLAY COUNTY

A Knobel, Arkansas woman is dead following a head on collision in Clay County.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 73 year old Shirley Luttrell was fatally injured in the collision on Highway 135.

The driver of the second vehicle suffered undisclosed injuries and was taken to an area hospital.

ONE KILLED, FOUR INJURED, IN HEAD ON COLLISION IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Authorities in Northeast Arkansas say a Paragould man has died in a 2 vehicle wreck.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 66 year old Johnny Mangrum was driving on Highway 49 when another vehicle crossed the center line and struck him head on.

Mangrum was killed in the wreck. The driver of the second vehicle and three passengers were injured.

BROOKLAND WOMAN DEAD FOLLOWING WRECK

A weekend wreck has resulted in the death of a Brookland woman.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 23 year old Kara Ann Cline allegedly ran a stop sign in Craighead County and collided with another vehicle.

Cline was pronounced dead at an area hospital. The driver of the second vehicle suffered undisclosed injuries.

MAN CHARGED WITH SECONED DEGREE MURDER IN SHOOTING OF STEPDAUGHTER

A man is facing a murder charge in connection to the shooting death of his step daughter.

According to KFVS, 54 year old Ricky Schweain is facing charges of second degree murder and armed criminal action.

During the incident, Melissa Luttrell reportedly grabbed a gun that Schweain was pointing at her. The gun then went off and shot her.

After the shooting, Schweain went into a bedroom and shot himself. He was taken to an area hospital for treatment.

SCOTT CITY MAN CHARGED WITH CHILD MOLESTATION AND STATUTORY RAPE

A Scott City man is facing multiple charges following his arrest last week.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 21 year old Zachary Cotner was arrested in connection to a rape report.

Walter says a 15 year old female reported being raped while she was at a party at a residence outside of Scott City. During an interview, Cotner admitted to having sexual contact with the victim.

Cotner has been charged with second degree statutory rape, second degree child molestation, and three counts of supplying liquor to a minor.

ROUNDTABLE CONVERSATIONS TO BE HELD IN LOCAL COMMUNITIES ON INFANT MORTALITY

Two Southeast Missouri communities will be holding roundtable conversations this week to discuss infant mortality.

The meetings are being hosted by Bootheel Babies and Families. The first will be held on Tuesday at the Caruthersville Community Center with another occurring Thursday at the Miner Convention Center.

Both locations will feature two discussion times: 11:30 am to 1 pm and 5:30 pm to 7 pm. According to the Missouri Bootheel Regional Consortium, Missouri has the 23^rd highest infant mortality rate in the United States and the six counties of the Bootheel region have the highest infant mortality rate in the state.

The six counties are Dunklin, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Scott, and Stoddard.

For more information, visit bootheelbabies.org.

ROUTE 53 IN BUTLER COUNTY REDUCED FOR DRAINAGE REPAIRS

A portion of Route 53 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform drainage repairs.

The affected section of roadway is located from County Road 616 to County Road 617.

Work is scheduled to be performed today through Thursday from 8 am to 3:30 pm daily.

ALMOST TWO MONTH LONG ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Southbound I-55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced beginning today as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.

Weather permitting; work will be done through Saturday, May 30^th, from 6 am to 6 pm daily.

The work zone is located between Route 84 and Route U.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD CLOSED THIS WEEK FOR RAILROAD REPAIRS

Route EE in New Madrid County will be closed this week as Railroad Department crews repair the railroad crossing.

The section of roadway is located between Toney Street and McCarty Street.

Work is scheduled for today through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm daily.

NEW PROPOSAL WOULD ALLOW FIREARMS ON BUSES AND TRAINS

(AP) - A Missouri Republican lawmaker is taking the debate on gun rights to cities with a proposal to allow firearms on buses and trains.

The measure comes months after voters approved a state constitutional amendment declaring the right to bear arms is "unalienable" and that laws restricting gun rights are subject to "strict scrutiny."

Republican Representative Ron Hicks says his bill to permit guns on public transit could increase safety, despite concerns raised by state public transportation systems that it could do the opposite.

University of Missouri-St. Louis political scientist David Kimball says support for the bill likely would be weakest in urban areas, where public transit is most common.

April 3, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 040315  

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON FORGERY AND DRUG POSSESSION WARRANTS

A Poplar Bluff man has been arrested for forgery and drug possession.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 57 year old William W. Hailey was taken into custody yesterday morning.

Hailey was arrested on two Butler County warrants, one for probation violation on an original charge of forgery, and the second for felony possession of dangerous drugs.

EAST PRAIRIE WOMAN CHARGED WITH DRUG DISTRIBUTION AND ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A MINOR

A narcotics investigation has led to the arrest of a Mississippi County woman.

Authorities say 20 year old Abigal Keri Funderburk, of East Prairie, has been charged with distribution of a controlled substance near government housing and endangering the welfare of a minor.

Mississippi County Sheriff Keith Moore says in October of 2014, one of his deputies was at a public housing complex when he witnessed Funderburk hand a pill bottle to a minor.  An investigation revealed the bottle contained pills that had been laced with an unidentified substance.

The SEMO Crime Lab confirmed the pills contained a narcotic, and a warrant for Funderburk’s arrest was issued.

PARAGOULD MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY AFTER HIGH SPEED CHASE

A Paragould, Arkansas man has been taken into custody after leading police on a high speed chase yesterday morning.

Authorities say 40 year old Dwight L. Roberts fled from officers in Green County, Arkansas shortly before 6 am.  The pursuit continued into Dunklin County.

Kennett Police were able to stop the suspect and place Roberts under arrest.

CRAIGHEAD COUNTY FAIR ASSOCIATION URGED TO SELL FAIRGROUNDS

(AP) - A bank has recommended that fairgrounds in northeast Arkansas be sold after the Craighead County Fair Association filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in October.

The Jonesboro Sun reports that Focus Bank suggested liquidation of the property, which is owned by the association, in a March 25 filing. The fair association was left in $10 million worth of debt after relocating to a new site and constructing a larger complex.

The association owed more than $6 million money to Focus Bank, which financed the move, when it filed for bankruptcy. The new fairgrounds, now known as the Northeast Arkansas Exposition and Conference Center, are valued around $22 million.

Michael Cureton, fair board president, said the board still hopes to avoid a liquidation sale.

AUDIT SAYS MISSOURI MISSPENT $7 MILLION MEANT FOR HIGHWAY REPAIR

(AP) - A state audit says more than $7 million in funds meant for Missouri highways was improperly spent by the state transportation department.

The report released Thursday says the Department of Transportation used nearly $3.8 million of road funds for safety grants to local entities.

It says the department also spent nearly $1.9 million from road funds to settle employee discrimination lawsuits, and paid nearly $1.5 million to employees on administrative leave who were subsequently laid off.

The department said that spending was within its rights, but it would try to find other funding sources for some expenses.

The audit comes as the transportation department has been warning of a funding shortfall that will prevent it from adequately maintaining all of Missouri's roads and bridges.

MISSOURI SENATE APPROVES PRESCRIPTION DRUG MONITORING SYSTEM

(AP) - Missouri may soon join the rest of the country in creating a prescription drug monitoring database that supporters say will curb substance abuse.

The Missouri Senate passed a measure 24-10 Thursday that would track prescription drugs. It's been held up in previous years because of privacy concerns.

The measure would create a monitoring program to track when prescriptions for controlled drugs are written and filled, with a goal of preventing abuse of addictive pills such as painkillers.

The bill includes protections for the data and limits on accessing it, as well as penalties for improper use or sharing of the information.

Some Republican lawmakers say they still are concerned about the risks to such sensitive personal information.

The Senate version now goes to the House, which approved a similar program.

MISSOURI HOUSE PASSES BILL AIMED AT ADDRESSING ETHICS ISSUES

(AP) - The Missouri House has passed legislation aimed at addressing ethics concerns in the only state that allows both unlimited campaign contributions and lobbyist gifts while permitting lawmakers to immediately become lobbyists after leaving office.

The House on Thursday approved the bill 132-14.

The original Senate bill blocked lawmakers elected next year from becoming lobbyists until two years after leaving office. It also prevented lobbyists from paying for out-of-state trips for lawmakers.

House Republicans bulked up the Senate measure to also limit lobbyist gifts to $25. Other changes include applying a cooling-off period to current legislators, but allowing them to enter lobbying a year after leaving office.

Senators can either approve the amended bill as is or hash out differences with the House.

MISSOURI SENATE PANEL OKs LUMP-SUM BUDGETS FOR THREE DEPARTMENTS

(AP) - A Missouri Senate committee has endorsed a budget plan that its chairman says will constrain the state's fastest-growing costs.

The Senate Appropriations Committee on Thursday approved a measure creating lump-sum grants for most programs in the Department of Social Services, Department of Mental Health and Department of Health and Senior Services.

The proposal would reduce the totals for the Social Services department by 6 percent - or about $100 million - compared with the House's version, and a combined 4 percent, about $30 million, for the others.

It would still be a net increase over the current budget. Committee chairman Senator Kurt Schaefer says the departments should be able to find efficiencies.

The proposal exempts some programs from the reductions, including medical care for pregnant women and adult dental care.

MISSOURI HOUSE OKs REQUIRING PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE IN ENGLISH

(AP) - A bill that would require Missouri's public schools recite the Pledge of Allegiance in English once a day has passed the House.

The Republican-controlled chamber on Thursday voted 118-30 in favor of the measure.

Missouri currently requires public schools to recite the pledge at least once a week. The bill follows a New York high school's divisive decision to recite the pledge in Arabic as part of National Foreign Language Week.

Democrats criticized the English requirement as discriminatory, while Republicans said it promotes unity and is needed because English is Missouri's official language.

The bill's chance of passing is unclear.

Republican Senate President Pro Tem Tom Dempsey said Thursday he appreciates those who recite the pledge, but he's not too concerned with what language is used to recite it.

ARKANSAS GOVERNOR SIGNS REVISED RELIGIOUS OBJECTIONS BILL

(AP) - Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson has signed a revised version of a religious objections bill that supporters say addresses concerns that the original proposal sanctioned discrimination against gays and lesbians.

Hutchinson signed the new bill Thursday moments after it was given final approval by the state House. The law prohibits state and local government from infringing on someone's religious beliefs without a compelling interest.

The move comes a day after Hutchinson asked lawmakers to change the measure to make it more closely mirror a 1993 federal law. The original bill drew widespread criticism from businesses and others who called it anti-gay.

The House was expected to vote later Thursday to recall the original measure from Hutchinson's desk.

ARKANSAS REVENUE DIPS IN MARCH AFTER SLUGGISH TAX TAKE

(AP) - Arkansas' finance office says a drop in sales and individual income tax collections pushed the state's revenue below both last year's figures and expectations in March.

The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration on Thursday said the state's net available revenue last month totaled $365.2 million, which is $21.3 million below March 2014 and $13.2 million below forecast.

The state's revenue for the fiscal year that began July 1 totaled $3.7 billion, which is $81.4 million above forecast.

The state's individual income tax collections in March totaled $229.4 million. The amount is $17.2 million below the same month last year and $17.7 million below forecast.

Sales tax collections totaled $179.8 million, which is $3.3 million below the same month last year and $5 million below forecast.

ARKANSAS HOUSE, SENATE ADVANCE PROPOSED AMENDMENTS

(AP) - Arkansas voters next year will decide on proposals regarding the governor's power; tax breaks for corporations; and longer terms for elected county officials after the House and Senate advanced a trio of proposed state constitutional amendments.

The Senate voted 33-0 Thursday for a plan to increase the terms of most county offices to four years, relax restrictions on what crimes prevent people from holding office and remove unopposed candidates from ballots.

The House voted 80-0 to allow the governor to retain power and duties while out of state and voted 70-22 for a proposal to remove a cap on bonds the state can issue to attract employers. Supporters say it's necessary to compete with what other states do while detractors call it corporate welfare.

The issues will be on the November 2016 ballot.

April 2, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 040215  

CARUTHERSVILLE TEEN FATALLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

A Caruthersville teen has been fatally injured in a single vehicle crash yesterday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 19 year old Michael L. Pietrzykowski’s vehicle ran off of Interstate 55, about a mile south of Portageville, striking a ditch and overturning.  Pietrzykowski was ejected from the vehicle.

He was not wearing a safety device.

CAPE COUNTY MAN FACING MURDER CHARGE IN DEATH OF STEPDAUGHTER

A Cape Girardeau County man is facing a murder charge after his stepdaughter died of a gunshot wound.

According to authorities, 54 year old Ricky Lee Schweain has been charged with second degree murder and armed criminal action.

Authorities say Schweain and his stepdaughter, Melissa Luttrell, got into an argument last Thursday.  Schweain told investigators that he had pointed a pistol at Luttrell.  He says Luttrell grabbed the gun, causing it to go off and shoot her in the chest.

Luttrell died on the scene.

Authorities say Schweain then shot himself twice in the chest.  He is still being treated for those injuries.

INCENTIVE COULD COST POPLAR BLUFF TAXPAYERS $40,000

(AP) - Taxpayers in Poplar Bluff could pay more than $40,000 for a $1,400 contribution to a civic organization.

The Associated Press reports that the DAR obtained emails showing that all 239 city employees were offered one paid day off if they purchased a $6 ticket to an upcoming Rotary Club Spaghetti Day. The emails indicate the offer was made at the direction of City Manager Heath Kaplan, a Rotary Club member.

Messages seeking comment from Kaplan were not returned.

The average city worker makes $21.89 an hour. The newspaper estimates the cost to taxpayers at more than $40,000 if all workers participate.

City council members say Kaplan told them it was an effort to increase employee morale and engage workers in community events.

FORMER OFFICER FACING CHILD ABUSE CHARGE

A former police officer is facing a child abuse charge in St. Francois County.

Authorities say 38 year old Jay Bellis allegedly threw a four year old child against a wall, causing injury to the child’s ear.

Bellis told investigators that he lost his temper while disciplining the child for misbehaving at daycare.

Bellis is a former member of the Leadwood Police Department.

BURNING TRASH STARTS 20 ACRE FIRE

A fire that started with a spark from some nearby burning trash has burned approximately 20 acres.

Authorities say the fire started around 1:30 yesterday in a field in north Scott City.

Firefighters with seven departments battled the blaze.

EARTHQUAKE NEAR STEELE REGISTERS 4.0

Authorities with the U.S. Geological Survey say an earthquake near Steele last night registered a 4.0 magnitude.

The earthquake occurred shortly before 11 pm.

It was centered approximately two miles south southwest of Steele.

MISSOURI TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT NAMES INTERIM DIRECTOR

(AP) - The Missouri Department of Transportation's chief financial officer has been named interim department director.

The Highways and Transportation Commission on Wednesday appointed Roberta Broeker to take over when current director Dave Nichols retires May 1.

Broeker has been the department's chief financial officer for the past decade. The commission plans to name a permanent director in the fall.

The leadership change comes after the commission in February approved a scaled-back maintenance plan that will keep only one-quarter of Missouri's 32,000 miles of roads in top condition starting in 2017.

DIEHL PROPOSES CHANGES TO HANDLING MISSOURI TRAFFIC FINES

(AP) - Missouri's Republican House speaker is proposing a number of changes to how traffic violations are handled to address concerns raised by the fatal police shooting in Ferguson.

The shooting of black 18 year old Michael Brown by a white officer led to criticism that some cities excessively fine residents to fund their budgets.

House Speaker John Diehl of Town and Country on Wednesday announced proposed changes to prevent that from happening. Those include limiting cities from funding more than 20 percent of their budgets from fines.

Another proposal would require courts to consider a defendant's ability to pay fines and offer alternative payment plans, such as paying online or community service.

The Senate bill now is pending in a House committee. Diehl says he expects it will win approval within days.

MISSOURI HOUSE PANEL SENDS MEDICAL MARIJUANA BILL FORWARD

(AP) - Republican support for a medical marijuana law is moving a proposal forward to the full Missouri House.

A House panel Tuesday unanimously approved a Republican-sponsored measure that would allow some Missouri residents with specific illnesses to obtain and use marijuana legally.

Committee Chairman Republican Rep. Caleb Jones, of Columbia, says there are safeguards in the bill to prevent abuse. He says the House should decide on the issue.

Advocates for broader legalization of marijuana say the measure might be too restrictive. They cited concerns with tight limits on the amount patients can obtain, the exclusion of some illnesses and the lack of a home growing allowance for patients.

House Speaker John Diehl says there's a chance the measure could move forward, but he wants to be sure it's fully vetted.

MISSOURI HOUSE INITIALLY OKs PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE IN ENGLISH

(AP) - Supporters say a measure requiring publicly funded schools to recite the Pledge of Allegiance daily in English will encourage unity and pride in the United States.

The Missouri House gave initial approval to the measure Wednesday. Republican Representative Shane Roden is sponsoring the legislation and says the pledge should be in English because that's the official language of Missouri.

He says if the law does not specify the pledge could be recited in Arabic, for example.

A New York high school's decision to recite the pledge in Arabic to promote National Foreign Language Week divided the community and drew national attention last month.

Opponents say students learning English may want to say the pledge in their native language.

The measure faces another vote in the House, possibly this week.

MISSOURI SENATOR PROPOSES LUMP-SUM BUDGET FOR THREE DEPARTMENTS

(AP) - The Missouri Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman is proposing a plan he says will constrain costs in some of the fastest-growing parts of the state's budget.

Senator Kurt Schaefer recommended Wednesday creating lump-sum grants for most programs in the Department of Social Services, Department of Mental Health and Department of Health and Senior Services.

The proposal would make across-the-board cuts - 6 percent or about $100 million to DSS, and a combined 4 percent, about $30 million, for the others.

Schaefer says some programs in those departments have excess spending authority that has previously gone unused.

His proposal exempts some programs from the cuts, including medical care for pregnant women and Medicaid adult dental care. Republicans have criticized Governor Jay Nixon for withholding money from those programs.

The committee has yet to vote on the proposal.

ARKANSAS, INDIANA LAWMAKERS RACE TO UPDATE RELIGION BILL

(AP) - Lawmakers in Arkansas and Indiana are scrambling to revise controversial religious objection measures as Republican governors in both states try to quell a growing backlash from businesses and other critics who have called the proposals anti-gay.

Arkansas House leaders hope to give final approval Thursday to a bill the Senate passed a day earlier to address Governor Asa Hutchinson's concerns.

Hutchinson had initially said he would sign the bill, which prohibits the state and local governments from infringing on a person's religious beliefs without a "compelling" interest. But the governor instead called on lawmakers Wednesday to change the measure to more closely mirror a 1993 federal law.

Legislative leaders in Indiana are also working to change that state's similar recently enacted law at Governor Mike Pence's request.

ARKANSAS LAWMAKERS GIVE FINAL OK TO $5.2 BILLION BUDGET BILL

(AP) - Arkansas lawmakers have given final approval to a nearly $5.2 billion budget that boosts money for public schools, Medicaid and prisons while cutting most other state agencies' funding by 1 percent.

The House on Wednesday approved by an 82-1 vote the proposed Revenue Stabilization Act, which sets spending priorities based on expected revenue. The Senate approved an identical version of the measure by a 29-4 vote.

The proposal calls for restoring a capital gains tax break that was scaled back earlier this year by cutting various grants for various programs, including libraries and community health centers.

Lawmakers also approved legislation to tap the state's surplus for various projects, with the House approving it on a 78-0 vote and the Senate by a 30-0 vote.

April 1, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 040115  

ANOTHER ARREST MADE IN MURDER FOR HIRE SCHEME

An additional arrest has been made in connection to an alleged murder for hire plot in northeast Arkansas.

According to the Blytheville Courier News, Calvin Aldridge was taken into custody Tuesday for a scheme to kill the ex-girlfriend of Tylon King.

Aldridge was allegedly a part of a phone conversation with King where they apparently spoke in code about a paid “hit” on King’s ex-girlfriend.

SIKESTON MAN FACING DOMESTIC ASSAULT AND DRUG CHARGE

A Sikeston man is facing multiple charges following a domestic assault incident.

The victim told police that 29 year old Justin Kane Holland had pulled her off the bed, punched her in the mouth, and grabbed her throat.

Holland was later located and arrested. During the arrest, he was found in possession of a controlled substance.

Holland has been charged with felony domestic assault and possession of a controlled substance.

TWO ILLINOIS WOMEN ARRESTED ON HEROIN CHARGE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Two Illinois women are facing felony drug charges following their arrest Tuesday morning in New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 33 year old Tiffany Shawtell, of Chicago, Illinois, and 31 year old Jasmine Sokic, of Ingleside, Illinois, were each arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, heroin; and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Shawtell is also charged with possession of a controlled substance in a correctional facility.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENT COUNCIL ADVISOR ELECTED TO STATE BOARD

A Poplar Bluff High School student council advisor has been elected to serve on a state board.

Hope Conover was recently elected to serve a three-year term representing the Southeast District of the Missouri Association of Student Councils.

Conover, who is also a math instructor at Poplar Bluff High School, attended her first meeting last month during the annual

MASC state convention.

MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FOREST OPEN HOUSE TO BE HELD NEXT WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF

Mark Twain National Forest will be holding an open house next week in Poplar Bluff as a part of a study of the forest’s road system.

Every national forest will complete the road study by the end of 2015. The study will analyze all forest system roads for their existing use and characteristics, need for management, activities and public access, benefits, environmental risks and maintenance costs.

The open house will be held on April 8^th from 5 pm to 8 pm at the Holiday Inn in Poplar Bluff.

RAILROAD REPAIRS TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD THIS WEEK

Route 164 in Pemiscot County will be closed this week as railroad crews make repairs to the crossing.

The work zone is located between Railroad Street and Route 61.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday from 6 am to 5 pm daily.

INTERSTATE 55 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY REDUCED FOR GUARDRAIL REPAIRS

A portion of southbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane as contractor crews perform guardrail repairs.

The affected section of roadway is located between Route 80 and Route 162.

Work is scheduled to be performed from 7 am to 4:30 pm daily through Wednesday, April 8^th.

CREWS TO BE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY TODAY FOR RAILROAD REPAIRS

Route W in New Madrid County will be closed today so railroad crews can repair a railroad crossing.

Route W will be closed between Route 62 and Route D from 8 am to 5 pm.

MISSOURI HOUSE PANEL OKS ADDED FUNDS FOR MEDICAID DRUG COSTS

(AP) - Despite concerns from Republican lawmakers about Democratic Governor Jay Nixon's withholding money from programs this year, most of his 2015 supplemental budget request is moving forward.

A Missouri House panel on Tuesday approved additional spending for 2015, including $120 million in general funds.

Republican lawmakers have previously criticized the request while the governor's office continues to withhold about $451 million from other priorities this year.

State budget director Linda Lueberring says the additional money is for bills that have to be paid.

About $82 million of that is for increased costs in the state's Medicaid pharmacy program, primarily from the high cost of providing new Hepatitis C drug Sovaldi.

The measure must be approved by the full House before going to the Senate.

ARKANSAS LAWMAKERS GIVE FINAL APPROVAL TO RELIGIOUS-FREEDOM BILL

(AP) - Arkansas lawmakers have given final approval to a religious-freedom bill that has drawn sharp criticism from opponents who say it opens the door to state-sanctioned discrimination against gays and lesbians.

The House voted Tuesday to approve the measure, which prohibits the state and local governments from infringing on a person's religious beliefs without a "compelling" interest. The measure now heads to Republican Governor Asa Hutchinson, who has said he will sign it into law.

If enacted, the move will make Arkansas the second state to enact such a law this year. Indiana Governor Mike Pence signed a similar bill last week, and 19 other states have comparable measures on the books.

Hundreds of protesters filled the Arkansas Capitol urging Hutchinson to veto the bill.

MISSOURI SENATE VOTES TO RAISE CAPS FOR SOME TO GET MEDICAID

(AP) - Missouri's Republican-controlled Senate has advanced a bill that would expand eligibility for persons with disabilities to receive Medicaid.

Senators advanced the bill in a voice vote Tuesday and will vote a second time before it moves to the House.

Currently single Missourians can't have more than $1,000 in assets to qualify for the federal health care program, with married couples capped at $2,000.

Republican Senate President Pro Tem Tom Dempsey's bill would increase that to $2,000 and $4,000 respectively, with those caps to increase yearly.

The legislation spurred debate between two GOP lawmakers over a larger expansion of the federal health care program.

Republican Senator Ryan Silvey of Kansas City is one of a few GOP members in support of larger expansion. Party leaders have called it a nonstarter.

March 31, 2015

TRUMANN WOMAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Northeast Arkansas woman died over the weekend following a single vehicle wreck in Craighead County.

According to the Arkansas State police, 29 year old Morgan Stephanie Smith, of Trumann, was driving a vehicle on State Highway 63 when she ran off the road and hit a culvert.

Smith was killed in the wreck.

IZARD COUNTY MAN CHARGED WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT

An Izard County man is alleged to have sexually assaulted a young girl.

According to the Izard County Sheriff’s Department, 61 year old Theodore Shrout of Franklin, was taken into custody on Friday. Shrout is accused of inappropriately touching the child, who is younger than 10 years old. He has been charged with felony 2nd degree sexual assault.

Sheriff Tate Lawrence says that Shrout has a history of similar incidents with charges and convictions from the state of Kansas.

SILVA WOMAN FACING MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES OUT OF WAYNE COUNTY

A Silva woman is facing multiple drug charges in connection to her arrest Monday afternoon in Wayne County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 29 year old Jessica Tooman was arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and soma, possession of a controlled substance in a jail facility for diazepan and hydrocodone, and driving while intoxicated.

TWO ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY STEALING ITEMS FROM VEHICLE

Jackson Police say two Cape Girardeau residents are facing charges following the investigation of a vehicle break in.

According to Police, 22 year old Blaze Stephens and 18 year old Harper Johnson were allegedly found to be in possession of items stolen from the vehicle.

They are each charged with stealing a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance.

BRIDGE COLLAPSES IN MADISON COUNTY

A bridge in Madison County collapsed over the weekend.

According to KFVS, the low water bridge was located over the Castor River on County Road 320.

The bridge reportedly collapsed due to water.

AUDITOR SPOKESMAN LEFT NOTE BEFORE APPARENT SUICIDE

(AP) - Police say the spokesman for the Missouri auditor's office left a note before his apparent suicide, which came about a month after his boss killed himself.

Jefferson City Police spokesman Captain Doug Shoemaker said Monday that 44-year-old Robert "Spence" Jackson died Friday evening or early Saturday at his apartment.

Shoemaker says investigators found a note, but he declined to say what it said.

Jackson's body was found Sunday evening after police responded to a well-being check. Police say they believe he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Shoemaker says Jackson's mother called police Sunday after not being able to reach him.

Jackson's boss, Auditor Tom Schweich, fatally shot himself last month at his home in what police also have described as a suicide.

MISSOURI PRESCRIPTION DRUG DATABASE EARNS INITIAL APPROVAL

(AP) - Missouri senators have given initial approval to a proposed prescription drug database, despite concerns that it could jeopardize personal information.

In a voice vote, senators on Monday advanced the measure, which has failed to pass the Legislature for years.

The measure would create a monitoring program to track when prescriptions for controlled drugs are written and filled.

The goal is to help prevent and catch so-called doctor shoppers who try to stockpile and abuse addictive pills, such as painkillers.

Missouri is the only state without such a program. Lawmakers have questioned the security of a government database tracking prescription pill use.

Compromises such as cutting the time that data is saved helped move the bill forward. Originally at two years, senators cut that down to 180 days.

MISSOURI HOUSE PANEL QUESTIONS PRIVACY IN BODY CAMERA BILL

(AP) - A Democratic proposal made in response to the fatal police shooting in Ferguson that would require mandatory body cameras for Missouri police is facing a Republican roadblock.

GOP House committee members questioned funding mechanisms and privacy protections during a hearing Monday.

But Democratic Representative Brandon Ellington, of Kansas City, says recording police interactions would protect law enforcement and citizens.

Ellington says he was once arrested after a fight with an officer and charges were dropped only because of video from a store camera.

Body cameras have been one proposed response to the shooting death of 18-year-old Michael Brown in Ferguson by a white police officer.

Ellington says he introduced the measure last year before the shooting. He said video would have answered questions about Brown's death.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY

Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The bridge is located between County Road 212 and Route EE.

Work will be performed today from 6:30 am to 5 pm.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR CROSSING REPAIRS

Route HH in New Madrid County will be closed today as Railroad crews perform railroad crossing repairs.

Work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 5 pm today.

The crossing is located between County Road 609 and Route 61.

INTERSTATE REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY

Northbound Interstate 57 in Mississippi County will be reduced to one lane beginning today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge maintenance.

The bridge is located between Route 105 and Route UU.

Weather permitting; work will take place from 7:30 am to 3 pm daily through Friday, April 17th.

March 30, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 033015  

TWO AREA TEENS FATALLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

A single vehicle crash on Saturday in Dunklin County has claimed the lives of two area men.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 17 year old Corey A. Lee, of Paragould, was at the wheel when his vehicle travelled off the roadway and overturned.  Lee and a passenger, 18 year old Tyler M. Ellington, of Cardwell, were ejected from the vehicle.

Ellington was pronounced dead at the scene.

Lee was transported to a regional hospital and then to a Memphis hospital, where he died Sunday.

Authorities say the wreck occurred around noon Saturday on Route V, about three miles south of Senath.

POLICE LOOK FOR MISSING PORTAGEVILLE WOMAN

Authorities are looking for a Portageville woman.

According to the Portageville Police Department, 54 year old Teresa Miller was last seen on March 25^th.  Miller was wearing blue jeans, a black sweatshirt, a black jacket and white tennis shoes.

Anyone with information about Miller or her whereabouts is asked to contact the Portageville Police Department.

SIX YEAR OLD RECOVERS AFTER HIT AND RUN

Authorities in Cape Girardeau are looking for a man who witnesses say hit a six year old girl with his vehicle before speeding away from the scene.

The child, whose name has not been released, was taken to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries after the incident Saturday evening.

The girl was crossing Ellis Street shortly before 7 pm on her bike, when she was struck by a vehicle.  The vehicle, which witnesses describe as a black or dark blue Crown Victoria or Chevy Caprice, fled the scene.  Witnesses say they believe the car was being driven by a light skinned black male.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Cape Police at 573-335-6621.

SCOTT CITY MAN ARRESTED OVER WEEKEND ON DRUG CHARGES

A Scott City man is facing drug related charges after his arrest over the weekend in Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 25 year old Andrew J. Wilson was taken into custody shortly before 2 am Saturday.

Wilson has been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance, Hydrocodone; possession of marijuana, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

EAST PRAIRIE TEEN FACES DRUG CHARGES AFTER AUTHORITIES DISCOVER PILLS IN HER POSSESSION

An East Prairie teen is facing drug related charges after she was found with several pills in her possession.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that 17 year old Bethany E. Sutton was arrested shortly after midnight in Mississippi County.

Sutton has been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance, Hydrocodone, Alprazolam, and a unidentified pill.

CABOOL MAN CHARGED WITH VEHICULAR ASSAULT

A Cabool man is facing a vehicular assault charge.

A report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol says 30 year old Brandon W. Stark was arrested shortly before 9 am Friday in Texas County.

Stark was taken into custody on eight traffic warrants from Texas County, as well as the charge of vehicular assault.

MOREHOUSE MAN FACING DRUG CHARGES AFTER TRAFFIC STOP

A traffic stop has led to the arrest of a Morehouse man on drug charges.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven by Brian D. Lynch.  The deputy reports that during the stop, Lynch was exhibiting suspicious behavior.  The deputy initiated a search of the vehicle and discovered a glass pipe with residue that tested positive for methamphetamine, several pills, and a small amount of marijuana.

Lynch has been charged with three counts of possession of a controlled substance.

ROUTE F IN PEMISCOT COUNTY CLOSED FOR RAILROAD REPAIRS

A portion of Route F in Pemiscot County will be closed as Railroad crews perform railroad crossing repairs.

The affected section of roadway is between Second Street and Third Street.

Work is scheduled to take place roday through Wednesday from 8 am to 5 pm daily.

MISSOURI LAWMAKER WANTS TO CAP STATE’S 28 OFFICIAL SYMBOLS

(AP) - Missouri could limit the number of official creatures, foods and other state symbols under a bill up for a vote in the House.

Republican Rep. Tom Flanigan's bill comes as lawmakers debate making "Jim the Wonder Dog" the state Wonder Dog and "Old Drum" the state historical dog.

Every state has a collection of official symbols. Missouri has 28. Iowa has the least with eight. Massachusetts has the most with 44.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports Missouri's collection includes the state dinosaur (the hadrosaur), state exercise (jumping jacks) and state dessert (the ice cream cone).

Representative Tom Flanigan, a Carthage Republican, is sponsoring the bill to block adding more Missouri state symbols.

BILLS WOULD BAN GENDER NEUTRAL HOUSING AND UNISEX BATHROOMS

(AP) - Gender-neutral university housing and many unisex public bathrooms would be banned in Missouri under bills that have been introduced in the Legislature.

The Columbia Daily Tribune reports that Representative Jeff Pogue submitted the bills last week. The Salem Republican says he wants to "protect the social norms of our state." The legislation comes about one month after the University of Missouri's flagship campus in Columbia announced plans to test out a new 16-bed housing option. MU officials say the goal is to create a safe place for transgender or gender nonconforming students.

Kyle Piccola, a lobbyist for the LGBT advocacy group PROMO, called Pogue's legislation "disheartening." Piccola said the group would monitor the legislation but stressed that bills filed this late in the session "don't typically go anywhere."

MISSOURI BILL WOULD ALLOW GROWLERS IN GAS STATIONS AND GROCERS

(AP) - Missouri beer lovers could buy freshly filled growlers of draft beers at convenience and grocery stores under two proposals brewing in the Legislature.

The Senate is set to review a bill approved earlier this month by the House that would allow stores that sell packaged beer to add growlers to their wares. The jugs currently can be sold at breweries and some bars, typically filled with unique brews that aren't sold in stores.

The national Brewers Association reports craft beer sales increased about 17 percent in 2013, even as overall beer sales dropped.

House bill sponsor Republican Rep. Robert Cornejo homebrews and says the bill gives Missouri residents increased access to their favorite beers.

March 27, 2015

  ARKANSAS BILL ADVANCES TO HELP RESTART EXECUTIONS

(AP) - Arkansas House members have endorsed a bill aimed at helping restart executions in the state by allowing different drugs to be used in lethal injections and shielding the drugs' source.

Lawmakers advanced the bill to the Senate Thursday in a 73 to 3 vote. It would allow the Department of Corrections to either use a barbiturate or a combination of three drugs for executions. The agency would also be barred from releasing who makes or supplies the drugs.

A lawyer for some death row inmates say the secrecy provision in the bill violates a 2013 agreement with the Arkansas attorney general's office and would open the state up to a lawsuit if passed.

A spokesman for the attorney general's office says the agreement shouldn't prevent the Legislature from amending the law.

March 26, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 032615  

TWO FACING CHARGE OF CONSPIRING TO COMMIT MURDER

Two people in Northeast Arkansas are facing charges in connection to an alleged plan to kill a woman.

According to the Blytheville Courier News, 32 year old Tylon King and 28 year old Diedre Bingham are charged with conspiracy to commit murder, engaging in violent criminal gang activity, and witness bribery.

MARBLE HILL MAN FACING RAPE AND ASSAULT CHARGES

An incident at an assisted living facility has led to charges for one man.

According to the Southeast Missourian, Joshua Bailey was a resident at the facility when he allegedly had sexual intercourse with another resident and also burned her with a cigarette.

The owner of the facility told authorities that the woman is not legally able to give consent due to being severely developmentally disabled.

Bailey has been taken into custody on charges of first degree rape, third degree assault, and 1first degree sexual abuse.

ONE INJURED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU AREA STABBING

A person reportedly suffered superficial injuries during a stabbing incident Wednesday night.

According to authorities, the incident occurred at a residential care facility in Cape Girardeau when a 29 year old man was stabbed multiple times.

A 23 year old suspect, whose name was not available, was taken into custody.

VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL EVENT SCHEDULED FOR FRIDAY AT BESS ACTIVITY CENTER

An event recognizing veterans of the Vietnam War will be held Friday at the Bess Activity Center on the campus of Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

“Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans,” is an early celebration of Vietnam Veterans Day, which is March 29^th. The event will include speaker Bill Kiefer; a Salute to Fallen Vietnam Veterans led by Bardis Dismuke; and the POW/MIA Ceremony led by John Fuller and Bob Lawson.

In addition there will be proclamations and resolutions presented by state Representative Todd Richardson & Representative Steve Cookson; state Senator Doug Libla; and Poplar Bluff Mayor Pro-tem Dr. Jack Rushin.

The event will begin at 11 am Friday and is open to the public.

MOTORISTS WARNED TO STAY ALERT IN FLOODING AREAS

Flood warnings are in effect in many areas near rivers in Souhteast Missouri and the Missouri State Highway Patrol is warning motorists to stay alert while driving in areas known to flood.

According to the National Weather Service, the Mississippi River was almost three and a half feet above the flood stage at Caruthersville at 8 pm last night. At 9 pm, it was just over a foot above the flood stage at New Madrid.

The Highway Patrol says to never drive through fast-moving waters; even a small amount of fast-moving water can sweep a slow-moving vehicle off the roadway.

If your vehicle becomes stuck in rising water, get out quickly and move to higher ground.

RAILROAD CROSSING REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR PEMISCOT COUNTY

Route M in Pemiscot County will be reduced today as railroad crews perform railroad crossing repairs.

The work zone is located from Route 61 to County Road 483.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled for 7 am to 6 pm today.

MISSOURI REPUBLICANS SPLIT ON POSSIBLE EXPERT WITNESS CHANGE

(AP) - A proposal supporters say would bring Missouri's court procedures for expert witness testimony more in line with federal standards has encountered strong opposition from two Republican senators seeking statewide office.

The measure would require expert witnesses to base testimony on sufficient facts and data and apply reliable principles and methods. Missouri's current law applies primarily to the facts, not the method by which they are analyzed.

Opponents, including Republican Sens. Kurt Schaefer and Eric Schmitt, say the legislation could increase litigation costs as expert witnesses are challenged more often.

Supporters say it would ensure the reliability of science used in court cases.

The opposing sides are set to work out concerns when lawmakers return from spring break next week.

NIXON TOUTS MISSOURI IN EUROPEAN TRADE MISSION

(AP) - Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is touting the state's central location and AAA credit rating during a trade mission to Italy, Germany and Spain.

Nixon said during a call Wednesday from Munich he hopes the trip will help persuade greater investment from German automobile manufacturers, such as BMW.

The Missouri entourage includes Republican House Speaker John Diehl and Senate President Pro Tem Tom Dempsey, as well as Democratic lawmakers and economic development leaders.

The group has met with Italian cement producer Buzzi Unicem and the German chemical company BASF, among others. Both have Missouri plants.

Travel expenses were paid for by the Hawthorn Foundation, a nonprofit economic development group.

The trip follows a trade mission led by First Lady Georganne Nixon earlier this month to Cuba to promote Missouri agriculture.

March 25, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 032515  

ADVANCE MAN DIES WHILE DRIVING, AUTHORITIES SEEK CAUSE OF DEATH

Authorities are attempting to figure out what caused the death of an Advance man as he drove down a Sikeston road Monday.

According to Captain James McMillen with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, officers responded to a call about what appeared to be a vehicle accident near Highway HH and North Ingram Road. When officers arrived, they found a truck in a field.

The driver of the vehicle, 36 year old David Allen Leonard was deceased in the driver’s seat. Captain McMillen says there was no damage to the truck and no obvious evidence of trauma to Leonard.

According to authorities, it is believed that Leonard suffered some sort of medical event that led to his death.

BOLLINGER COUNTY MAN ACCUSED OF HITTING SON WITH PIECE OF TRIM

A Gipsy, Missouri man was recently taken into custody after his son told authorities that the man had hit him repeatedly with a piece of trim board.

According to the Southeast Missourian, Brian Elsworth is facing a child abuse charge in connection to the incident. Elsworth allegedly struck his son three times in the head with his hand, before using a piece of trim board to hit him three times on the buttocks causing the board to break.

The 13 year old child reportedly had substantial bruising.

1. LOUIS MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A St. Louis man is facing multiple drug charges following his arrest Tuesday afternoon in New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old John Montgomery was taken into custody on charges of possession of drug paraphernalia; possession of marijuana; and possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine.

GROUNDBREAKING HELD FOR NEW POPLAR BLUFF JUNIOR HIGH ADDITION

Work started earlier this month on a new addition to the Poplar Bluff Junior High School.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held last Friday for the addition, which will include a FEMA safe room and nine new classrooms, among other renovations.

The project will also feature new restroom facilities, locker rooms and a road that encircles the campus. The safe room portion, which will double as a gym, is funded by a $1 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The current gym will be converted to a shop classroom.

The deadline for the project’s completion is March 2^nd, 2016.

FORMER COUNTY COMMISSIONER CHOSEN FOR INTERIM BUTLER COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR

A former county commissioner will be taking over as interim Emergency Management Director in Butler County.

According to a report from the Daily American Republic, Robbie Myers will be filing the spot on an interim basis. Myers had previously served as interim director in late 2012 and early 2013, along with his tenure as a county commissioner for 12 years.

Officials say they want to wait until after the storm season before a final decision will be made.

NEW COLLECTOR OF REVENUE APPOINTED FOR CARTER COUNTY

Governor Jay Nixon has named a new Collector of Revenue for Carter County.

Van Buren resident Lisa Goodwin was appointed to the position, which was made vacant by the resignation of Deborah Turley.

Goodwin is a former city clerk for the City of Van Buren, a post she held from 1997 until 2012.

SHOW TO BE PERFORMED THURSDAY AT JOHN J PERSHING VA MEDICAL CENTER

An entertainment show is scheduled to be performed Thursday for hospitalized veterans and guests at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center.

Re-Creation’s “40 Years of Entertainment” show will begin at 2 pm Thursday at the Medical Center’s main lobby.

Local VA Voluntary Services Officer, Donna Reynolds says the show is like a mini-Broadway performance featuring a group of talented young entertainers.

The public is welcome to attend the show and there will be no charge.

MISSOURI AUDIT FAULTS ATTORNEY GENERAL ON LOBBYIST POLICY

(AP) - A state audit says Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster hasn't adopted a policy to address concerns that he's been influenced by lobbyist perks.

Koster was criticized after a New York Times article in October listed him among a group of attorneys general who were soft on companies facing litigation after receiving campaign contributions and perks.

Koster later promised not to accept lobbyist gifts and put a freeze on campaign contributions from organizations under investigation by his office.

An audit released Tuesday says his office hadn't formally adopted those policies as of February. Koster's campaign spokesman Andrew Whalen says a policy is in place through his political committee.

Koster's office says attorneys don't pay attention to who contributes to his campaign.

Koster is the only Democrat running for governor in 2016.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER HARBORS TO BE DREDGED IN FOUR STATES

(AP) - A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers official says 10 harbors on the Mississippi River in Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri and Tennessee are scheduled for dredging this year.

Col. Jeff Anderson, commander of the corps' Memphis District, updated stakeholders and area officials on flood and water management projects during a meeting of the Mississippi River Commission in Memphis on Tuesday.

Anderson said dredging of silt and sediment deposits in ports and harbors is important because it clears them for barge traffic, which in turn bolsters commerce.

The meeting on the Motor Vessel Mississippi was part of the corps' annual high-water inspection trip. The commission met Monday in New Madrid, Missouri.

MISSOURI MEDICAID PROGRAM DID NOT RECOVER FROM DECEASED

(AP) - An audit of federal funds says Missouri's Medicaid program failed to recover as much as $27 million in medical expenses from deceased participants in the program.

The audit released Tuesday found claims were not filed quickly enough in more than 30,000 cases where the state may have been able to recover money.

Missouri law allows the state to recover Medicaid funds spent on a participant as a state debt. The state must file a claim against the person's estate in probate court within a year of their death.

The Department of Social Services unit responsible for filing claims says it does not have sufficient staff to review all of the cases of deceased patients.

The audit also found continued eligibility verification problems in welfare programs overseen by the department.

March 24, 2015

  RIVER RADIO NEWS 032415

MAN ARRESTED AFTER DROPPING METH ON CONVENIENCE STORE FLOOR

Two Northeast Arkansas men are facing charges after one of them reportedly dropped a bag of methamphetamine on the floor of a convenience store.

According to the Izard County Sheriff Department, 33 year old Robert Hobbs, of Floral, was at a Melbourne convenience store when he allegedly dropped a small bag of methamphetamine on the floor while purchasing items. The bag was located by a store employee and Hobbs was identified on an in store video.

Hobbs was located on a construction site in Melbourne on March 18^th and arrested for possession of methamphetamine.

During Hobbs arrest, another worker was observed disposing of a bag of meth and a smoking device.

The worker, 36 year old Timothy Swaim, of Batesville, was arrested and charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia for the purpose to use methamphetamine, tampering with physical evidence, and possession of marijuana.

MICHIGAN MAN ARRESTED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGE

A Michigan man is facing drug related charges in connection to his arrest Sunday night in New Madrid County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 23 year old Demarcus Baber, of Saginaw, Michigan, was arrested on a felony charge of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.   Baber is also charged with possession of drug paraphernalia.

POLICE SAY NO CLEAR MOTIVE IN MISSOURI AUDITOR’S SUICIDE

(AP) - Police investigating the suicide of Missouri Auditor Tom Schweich say law officers have no clear motive for why he shot himself.

Clayton Police Lt. Don Bass told KMOX radio that detectives have been conducting interviews and searching through Schweich's text messages, emails and voicemails.

Schweich shot himself at his Clayton home February 26^th, just minutes after telling a reporter that he wanted to go public with allegations that the chairman of the Missouri Republican Party had been telling people Schweich was Jewish.

Schweich, who was Christian, also had expressed angst to friends over what he perceived to be an anti-Semitic whispering campaign.

Bass says "there's nothing to indicate a clear motive" and "there's no substance to the whispering campaign" based on evidence brought to the attention of police.

JEFF SHAWAN STEPS DOWN AS BUTLER COUNTY EMA DIRECTOR

Jeff Shawan announced Monday that he would be leaving the position of Butler County Emergency Management Director.

Shawan says he resigned to pursue a new business opportunity. He had served since 2012 and said he could stay on as director until April 24^th.

BERNIE HIGH SCHOOL TAKES TOP HONORS IN BATTLE OF THE BELT CHALLENGE

A local high school received top honors with a 100 percent seat belt usage during the 2014 Battle of the Belt Challenge.

Bernie High School was one of eight schools across the state to hit 100 percent seat belt usage and the only one in Southeast Missouri.

An assembly was held earlier this month where the school was awarded a Gold Banner and $500 check.

Participating schools launched two surprise seat belt checks at each school to measure student seat belt usage before and after an educational campaign. In addition, schools had the opportunity to submit a 30 second video spot to encourage their peers to buckle up.

Seven other Southeast Missouri schools recorded at least 90 percent seat belt usage.

SEVERE WEATHER POSSIBLE FOR WEDNESDAY EVENING AND NIGHT

We could be looking at possible severe weather this week.

According to the National Weather Service, a vigorous system is expected to pass across the area Wednesday and Wednesday night.

The system could bring severe storms Wednesday evening and night with large hail and damaging winds being the primary threat.

DEXTER POLICE SAY HOLIDAY ENFORCEMENT CAMPAIGN WAS A SUCCESS

Dexter police say that their St. Patrick’s Day holiday enforcement campaign was a success.

From March 14^th to 17^th, the Dexter Police Department reported at least one drunk driving arrest, three minor in possession of alcohol violations and 65 citations were made.

Nearly 10,000 law enforcement agencies across the country participated in this year’s St. Patrick’s holiday “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS UNDERWAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Highway 67 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located at Route 158/160 extending north and south one-mile.

Weather permitting, work will be performed through Thursday from 7 am to 4:30 pm daily.

MISSOURI REPUBLICAN PROPOSES FIX TO FELON GUN RIGHTS PROBLEM

(AP) - A Missouri Republican lawmaker says a legislative fix is needed to ensure the state's prohibition on felons carrying guns won't be thrown out.

Representative Kevin Austin, of Springfield, says the Legislature should move quickly to remedy a problem created by a court ruling involving Amendment 5, which expanded Missouri's constitutional protections for gun rights.

The measure also gave legislators the ability to limit gun rights for "convicted violent felons."

A St. Louis judge said in a ruling last month that's being challenged that Missouri's law barring all felons from possessing guns was unconstitutional because it was too broad.

Austin now is sponsoring a bill that would define the list of crimes included as a "violent felony." He says that could ensure guns remain banned for at least some felons.

March 23, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 032315  

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

An Illinois man is dead after being injured in a single vehicle wreck Sunday afternoon in Pemiscot County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 40 year old Damon Gregory, of Marissa, Illinois, was driving on Interstate 55 when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and overturned.

Gregory was pronounced dead at the scene.

ORAN MAN CHARGED WITH STEALING

A Southeast Missouri man is facing a stealing charge for allegedly stealing from an Oran business.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 34 year old Kevin Kielhofner, of Oran, entered a business on March 8^th to cash a $200 check.

After Keilhofner was given the money, the associate noticed that the check was not signed. The associate gave the check back to Kielhofner and informed him he needed to sign it.

The associate turned around to get an item and when she turned back around, Kielhofner was walking out the door and the check was not on the counter.

Keilhofner was arrested on Friday on a misdemeanor charge of stealing.

SIKESTON WOMAN REPORTEDLY FOUND WITH MULTIPLE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

A Sikeston woman is facing multiple felony charges following her arrest Friday afternoon in Mississippi County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 32 year old Christina Haddock was taken into custody at 12:45 pm Friday. Haddock was arrested for felony possession of methamphetamine and distribution of a controlled substance.

Haddock was also charged with possession of a controlled substance for oxycotin, oxycodone, hydrocodone, xanax, and endocet.

CHAFFEE MAN FACING METH RELATED CHARGE

A Chaffee man is facing a meth possession charge out of Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 20 year old Jared Roth was arrested Sunday morning.

Roth was taken into custody on charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; possession of less than 35 grams of marijuana; and possession of drug paraphernalia.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING CAR FIRE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Authorities are investigating a weekend car fire in Jonesboro.

According to KAIT, a woman reported that she woke up Sunday morning and found that her car was burned.

She told police that she believed that a family member that she had been arguing with could have started the fire.

ALMOST $400,000 RAISED DURING WEEKEND TELETHON FOR KENNY ROGERS CHILDREN’S CENTER

Almost $400,000 was raised over the weekend during the 2015 Kenny Rogers Children’s Center Telethon.

The two day event in Sikeston raised $379,232. The telethon included multiple events such as a blood drive, 5k run, and a silent auction.

The Kenny Rogers Children’s Center provides a wide array of developmental and therapeutic services to children with all types of special needs and developmental delays including prematurity, cerebral palsy, and down syndrome.

PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSION TO BE HELD TODAY AS PART OF POPLAR BLUFF POLICE ACCREDITATION ASSESSMENT

A public information session is scheduled for today as a part of the accreditation assessment for the Poplar Bluff Police Department.

The session will be conducted in the community room on the bottom floor of the Poplar Bluff Public Library at 5:30 pm.

A team of assessors from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Incorporated recently arrived to examine all aspects of the Poplar Bluff Police Department’s policy and procedures, management, operations, and support services.

Appearances at the public information session are limited to ten minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with CALEA standards. A copy of the standards is available at the Poplar Bluff Police Department.

You can also provide comments to the assessment team by calling (537) 686-8622 today between 1 pm and 3 pm.

AREA STUDENT QUALIFIES FOR NATIONAL COMPETITION

A Three Rivers College Student has qualified for a national competition due to her performance at a recent state competition.

Jessica Sedrick, a Three Rivers student from Piedmont, has advanced to the Collegiate DECA national competition after qualifying with a fifth-place finish at the DECA State Career Development Conference in Jefferson City.

Sedrick, who is a sophomore in the business management program at Three Rivers, will compete in the hotel and lodging management category.

DECA is a national organization that helps high school and college students across the country prepare for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management through professional development, education, and networking opportunities.

PRESCRIPTION DRUG DATABASE BILLS ADD SECURITY PROTECTIONS

(AP) - Two bills sponsored by Republican lawmakers address privacy concerns in an attempt to pass a long-unsuccessful proposal for a prescription drug database.

Missouri is the only state without a database, which allows doctors and pharmacists to track possible so-called doctor shopping. The practice involves obtaining prescriptions from multiple doctors and then selling the pills or feeding a personal addiction.

Some lawmakers are wary of another government database with personal information, but both bills have safeguards so that the database is state-controlled and confidential.

That gained the backing of Republican Senator Rob Schaaf of St. Joseph, who previously filibustered similar bills. His support could signal a higher likelihood for the bill to pass.

MUSIC THERAPISTS SEEK STATE RECOGNITION, FUNDING FOR KIDS

(AP) - Missouri lawmakers are pushing for music therapists to obtain state certification and access to funding through a program for infants born with developmental delays.

Music therapy uses music to help individuals reach therapeutic goals in the physical, cognitive and social-emotional areas.

Cape Girardeau Republican Representative Kathy Swan says she wants to find a way to help young children get access to a service that's shown clinical results. She and a state senator are sponsoring bills, but neither have received a hearing yet.

Johnna Carrender is the caretaker and step-grandmother of a 7-year old with shaken baby syndrome. She pays out-of-pocket for music therapy because she says it's a way to help him tap into his abilities and bring joy to his life.

March 20, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 032015  

TWO POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENTS DIED FROM INJURIES IN WEEKEND FIRE

Two Poplar Bluff residents who were injured in a house fire over the weekend have died.

According to authorities, 43 year old Tesson Trube and 25 year old Uriah Nelson had been hospitalized due to smoke inhalation after the early morning Sunday fire.

The DAR reports that family members removed both victims from life support Monday.

The fire was determined to be accidental.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING WEAPONS CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff man has been charged with unlawful possession of a weapon after he was arrested by the Missouri State Highway Patrol yesterday.

According to the Patrol, 32 year old Terrance J. Draggs was taken into custody shortly before noon in Butler County.

In addition to the weapons charge, Draggs has been charged with unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. He also had several misdemeanor warrants out of Poplar Bluff and Butler County.

BODY FOUND BY FARMERS IN CLAY COUNTY, ARKANSAS

A body has been discovered by two famers in Clay County, Arkansas.

Authorities say the man’s body, which is yet to be identified, was found at the edge of a ditch on County Road 256, north of McDougal.

A cause of death is yet to be determined.

Arkansas State Police are investigating.

SWIFT WATER LEADS TO NEED FOR RESCUE OF AREA FAMILY

An area family needed assistance Monday after their truck was swept away in swift moving water.

Authorities say a family of four was traveling on County Road 338, northeast of Hayti in Pemiscot County, when they attempted to go through some water over the road.  The vehicle was swept away in the current.

Members of the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Department, the Missouri Department of Conservation, Pemiscot County Rescue Squad and Caruthersville Police Department were able to reach the family by boat and remove them from the roof of the truck.

Authorities remind citizens that if there is water over a road, turn around and do not try to cross it.  In most cases, the water is deeper than it appears.

TRAFFIC STOP IN WAYNE COUNTY LEADS TO ARREST OF THREE

A traffic stop in Wayne County has led to the arrest of three men.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that 21 year old Phillip E. Snipes, of Warrensburg 22 year old Ted J. Buckner, of Florissant; and 19 year old Adrian D. Sanders, of St. Louis, were taken into custody yesterday around 3:30 pm.

They have each been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver and felony possession of marijuana.

KANSAS CITY RESIDENT ARRESTED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES

A Kansas City, Kansas resident is facing drug charges after she was stopped in New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old Joyce D. Boettcher was arrested yesterday shortly before 12:30 pm and charged with felony possession of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana.

FIFTH ANNUAL ART FOR ANIMALS TO OPEN APRIL 10

Artists will unleash their talents for a good cause when the 5^th Annual Art for Animals exhibit and silent auction opens at Artfully Framed on Friday, April 10.

The opening reception is from 5 to 7 pm at the Artfully Framed gallery in the Bluff Estates Shopping Center. It will feature dozens of 5x7 original paintings by area artists, to be sold in a two-week silent auction.

Money raised by the event will benefit the Animal Welfare Alliance of Southeast Missouri.

The closing reception will be from 5 to 7 pm on April 24 and is open to the public at no charge.

Blank canvases are available at Artfully Framed for a $10 registration fee; $5 for children. Anyone can take part by creating a 5x7 painting of any subject in any style.

The artwork will remain on display at Artfully Framed during the two weeks between receptions. People can stop by the gallery and bid on their favorite paintings, or they can follow and submit bids on the Artfully Framed Facebook page:  facebook.com/artfullyframed.

For more information, call 785-6178.

HUNDREDS RALLY FOR MEDICAID EXPANSION

(AP) - Hundreds of people are rallying at the Missouri Capitol to urge lawmakers to expand Medicaid eligibility for low-income adults, despite resistance from Republicans leaders.

About 300 members of the Missouri Medicaid Coalition marched through the Capitol halls Thursday near the Senate chamber chanting, "Silence is violence. Have the debate."

Republican legislative leaders have said that expanding Medicaid is a nonstarter this year.

Democratic House members have used debate on next fiscal year's budget as an opportunity to criticize the GOP for blocking the measure, which could mean as much as $2 billion in additional federal money.

Republicans have cautioned that expanding the federal health care program might not have such a sweeping economic impact. They also say the current system is susceptible to fraud.

MISSOURI HOUSE OKS PROTECTIONS FOR RELIGIOUS STUDENT GROUPS

(AP) - A measure supporters say will protect religious student groups at Missouri universities is headed to the Senate after a House vote.

The Missouri House on Thursday approved a measure prohibiting public colleges from penalizing religious student groups for requiring members or leaders to adhere to the group's religious beliefs and conduct.

Supporters say universities in other states have targeted religious groups under policies that require organizations to accept any student who wants to join, which sometimes prompts organizations to disband.

The bill would not allow universities to defund religious groups for activities or policies that are part of a sincerely held religious belief.

Opponents say that has not happened and that the measure would allow religious groups to discriminate against people based on gender, race and sexual orientation.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR SIGNS EMERGENCY FUNDING FOR LOCAL PROJECTS

(AP) - Local governments in Missouri that built storm shelters or repaired school and hospital buildings after disasters like the 2011 Joplin tornado will soon be reimbursed with federal funds.

Governor Jay Nixon Thursday signed a bill that gives the state the authority to send federal money for disaster relief projects to local governments.

Cities and towns are waiting for about $30 million for already-completed projects.

The bill authorizes up to $124 million in federal money be passed through by the state, plus $5 million in general revenue so the state can match those funds.

The bill also includes an additional $3.5 million for future emergencies. The state's emergency fund was partially exhausted by the response to events in Ferguson after the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Michael Brown sparked protests.

March 19, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 031915  

FOUR YEAR OLD DIES IN RIPLEY COUNTY ACCIDENT

A four year old child has died after the vehicle she was a passenger in ended up in a flooded ditch yesterday.

Authorities say the child’s father was driving on Highway H in Ripley County, when his vehicle ran off the road, flipping on its side into a flooded ditch.

The man was knocked unconscious.  Two children were attempting to get out of the vehicle, when the four year old slipped and was carried away by the current.

The child’s body was later found by deputies.

MAN WANTED IN BUSINESS BREAK-IN LOCATED IN JAIL ON OTHER CHARGES

A man who was wanted in the Saturday break-in of a Jonesboro business has been located in the White County Jail on other charges.

Authorities say Earthly Coleman, of Benton, was identified as a suspect in the break-in of Express Mart on North Church Street.  Coleman allegedly used a vehicle to break down the doors of the business.

Cash and an iPad were taken during the incident.

Police say Coleman admitted to the break-in during an interview.

CARUTHERSVILLE MAN CHARGED WITH MAKING THREAT

A Caruthersville man’s idea of a joke has led to legal troubles.

Authorities say 55 year old William Taylor has been charged with making a terroristic threat.

According to Caruthersville Police Chief Tony Jones, Taylor posted a message about the Caruthersville Elementary School on Topix.com under the name of Karl Marx.  The message read, “Why don’t you go up there and shoot ‘em all.”

Police subpoenaed Topix to get the IP address for the message, which led them to Taylor’s home.  Chief Jones says Taylor told officers that he had made the post as a joke.

MISSOURI SENATE COMMITTEE PASSES STUDENT TRANSFER BILL

(AP) - A House bill aimed at addressing issues with Missouri's student transfer law is moving forward.

The Senate Education Committee on Wednesday voted 7-0 to support the measure, with one senator voting as present.

The transfer law requires failing school districts to pay for students to attend better-performing schools nearby. Lawmakers have crafted bills to allow students first to transfer to accredited schools within their district, which could alleviate the financial strain of paying for their tuition elsewhere.

But the Senate version stalled because of a more than $200 million price tag to implement it next fiscal year.

The more modest House bill would have cost about $13.5 million, although senators beefed that up with more than $20 million worth of additional provisions.

That legislation now moves to the full Senate.

MISSOURI TO RECEIVE $2.4 MILLION FOR MEDIAID FRAUD SETTLEMENT

(AP) - Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster says the state will get more than $2.4 million from a Medicaid fraud settlement.

Koster on Wednesday announced the civil settlement with offshoots of APS Healthcare and Innovative Resource Group over claims that the companies submitted false Medicaid claims.

The companies will immediately pay the state and federal government $5 million.

APS contracted with Missouri from 2008 to 2010 to provide services for the state's chronic care and administrative services programs. The company was responsible for managing preventative care for chronically ill patients on Medicaid to avoid emergency room expenses.

But Koster claims the companies didn't do their part and submitted false claims for Medicaid payments.

MISSOURI SENATE PANEL MOVES FORWARD WITH “BAN THE BOX” MEASURE

(AP) - The full Missouri Senate will consider a measure that would bar public employers from inquiring early in the employment application process into the criminal history of an individual.

A Senate committee on Tuesday voted 5-3 to send the bill to the floor.

It's modeled on the 'ban the box' effort to prevent people with criminal histories from being ruled out early for a job opportunity. After a conditional offer has been made, an employer could inquire about any criminal history and would be able to withdraw an offer if the offense is related to the position.

Democratic Senator Jamilah Nasheed, of St. Louis, says the measure will give people a second chance.

Private employers or law enforcement agencies would not be subject to the law.

AMBER ALERT CHANGES ENDORSED BY MISSOURI HOUSE

(AP) - Changes to Missouri's Amber Alert system are progressing in the Missouri House.

The House gave initial approval Wednesday to changes made in response to the kidnapping and death of a 10 year old girl last year in Springfield.

Springfield police responded within minutes to a call about fourth-grader Hailey Owens being abducted but a statewide Amber Alert was not sent for another two hours. The girl was found dead hours later in the basement of a Springfield man's home.

The bill would integrate the Amber Alert system with the electronic law enforcement system, ending the need for local police to fill out paper forms before an Amber Alert is issued.

MISSOURI HOUSE OKS STRICTER WORK REQUIREMENTS FOR WELFARE

(AP) - Missouri residents receiving temporary cash assistance would be limited to 30 months of benefits under a proposal that is moving forward in the Legislature.

The Missouri House approved shorter lifetime limits and stricter work requirements for welfare programs by a 115-44 vote on Wednesday.

Supporters say the threat of losing half their benefits and eventually all of their benefits will encourage individuals on assistance to get employment or engage in work-related activities.

The measure would lower the lifetime limits on cash assistance from the current five years.

Opponents say that families may need the assistance for longer and that the cuts would harm needy families.

The House vote means the bill now goes back to the Senate, which previously passed a different version of the bill.

March 18, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 031815  

WANTED NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN FOUND IN IOWA JAIL

A Luxora, Arkansas man who was wanted for aggravated robbery has been located in a Souix City, Iowa jail.

Authorities say 23 year old Terrell Harrell was being sought in connection to the alleged abduction and robbery of Robert Birmingham in early March.

Harrell and 66 year old Robert Franklin, of Luxora, are accused of kidnapping and taking Birmingham, who is wheelchair bound, to Little Rock on March 2^nd.

Officers received a call that day that led to a search of Birmingham’s home.  When they arrived, they found the house had been ransacked and Birmingham and his vehicle were missing.  Investigators checked for activity on Birmingham’s ATM card and were able to trace it to an apartment complex in Little Rock.  Birmingham was located at the apartment and sent to the VA hospital in Little Rock for treatment.

Two other men, Turod Jacobs and Terence Gordon, both of Little Rock, are being sought in connection to the incident.

JACKSON MAN FACES WEAPONS AND DRUG CHARGES AFTER SHOOTING AT INSURANCE ADJUSTER

A Jackson man is facing weapons and drug charges after he allegedly shot at an insurance adjuster Monday.

Authorities say 38 year old Mathew Thomas Copen has been charged with unlawful use of a weapon, armed criminal action, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The victim told officers that he was in the Bella Vista Subdivision to inspect two homes, when Copen demanded he leave.  Copen allegedly chased the man in his truck and fired a gun at him multiple times as he drove away.

PLANE FORCED TO LAND IN FIELD AFTER ENGINE TROUBLE

A crop duster pilot was forced to land in a field after he experienced engine trouble shortly after taking off from Corning, Arkansas.

According to authorities, Gary Cumbee was flying from Corning to Paragould for annual maintenance.  Cumbee says while in route, the plane’s engine failed.

The pilot was uninjured and was able to safely make an emergency landing in a field near the Paragould airport.

MISSOURI OFFICIAL ACCUSES JUSTICE DEPARTMENT OF RACISM

(AP) - Missouri's lieutenant governor is accusing Justice Department officials of racism, even as the federal agency is criticizing Ferguson police for alleged racial bias following the Michael Brown shooting.

Republican Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder said Tuesday he stands behind statements he made a day earlier to Newsmax TV. Kinder told the station "there is more racism in the Justice Department than ... anywhere I see in the St. Louis area."

Kinder told The Associated Press on Tuesday he believes the Justice Department had been "fanning the flames of racial divisions" even before a white Ferguson officer fatally shot the black 18 year old last August.

The Justice Department cleared the officer of civil rights violations but cited widespread racial bias in Ferguson's policing.

A Justice Department spokesman declined to comment.

MISSOURI HOUSE OKS ADDING ADVERTISING TO SEX TRAFFICKING LAW

(AP) - The Missouri House has given initial approval to a bill that supporters say could help reduce sex trafficking.

The measure endorsed Tuesday would add the advertising of sexual acts with a minor to Missouri's law against sexual trafficking.

Republican Rep. Elijah Haahr, of Springfield, says people exploiting minors are advertising children who have been trafficked online. He says giving prosecutors and law enforcement the ability to target websites that advertise sex acts with minors will help stop human trafficking in Missouri.

The bill mirrors an effort supported in the U.S. House by Rep. Ann Wagner to criminalize such advertising at the federal level.

The Missouri measure needs another vote in the House before moving to the Senate.

MISSOURI ADVANCES BILL TO CRACK DOWN ON CHILD SEXUAL ASSAULT

(AP) - A Missouri bill aimed at cracking down on child sex abuse has earned initial Senate approval.

Senators in a voice vote Tuesday supported legislation to increase the reporting and responses to allegations of children who sexually assault other minors.

The measure would require the state Children's Division to report claims of sex abuse between two children to local authorities. Those agencies then must assess the situation and potentially investigate the claims.

The bill is sponsored by Republican Sen. Jeanie Riddle, of Callaway County. She hopes the bill causes officials to intervene and prevent a pattern of lifelong assault among abusers.

Some Democratic opponents raised concerns about labeling children as sexual assailants.

A second Senate vote is needed before the bill can move to the House.

MISSOURI SENATE ADVANCES BILL TO ACCESS $200 MILLION IN BONDS

(AP) - Missouri senators have given initial approval to use $200 million in bonds meant for a new mental health facility at Fulton State Hospital to instead pay for other state building repairs and some new construction.

Senators in a voice vote Monday approved lifting restrictions on those bonds. The measure needs another vote to move to the House.

The Legislature last year authorized $200 million in bonding to pay for the mental health facility, but Missouri later found a different way to finance it.

Republican Sen. Mike Parson's bill would allow the state to use that bonding authority to pay for other building repairs and $75 million in new construction.

Proposals include $75 million to renovate the Capitol and convert the Department of Transportation headquarters into additional office space.

MISSOURI ADVANCES BAN ON AID FOR IMMIGRANTS IN US ILLEGALLY

(AP) - A bill to ban Missouri's A+ Scholarship from going to immigrants living in the U.S. illegally has passed the state Senate.

Senators approved the measure 25-8 on Tuesday. The legislation now moves to the House.

The bill would make the state's A+ Scholarship available only to U.S. citizens and permanent residents. The scholarship money pays for two years of free tuition at community colleges.

Republican bill sponsor Sen. Gary Romine says it's unfair to open the scholarship to immigrants in Missouri illegally when money for the program already is stretched thin.

Immigrant advocates and Democratic opponents say it could pose financial barriers for students seeking a college education.

The House last week passed a similar measure that would prevent state money from paying for financial aid for those students.

MISSOURI UNEMPLOYMENT RATE KEEPS STEADY AT 5.5 PERCENT

(AP) - Missouri's unemployment rate held steady at 5.5 percent last month while the economy gained several thousand jobs.

The state Department of Economic Development released data Tuesday showing no change in the seasonally adjusted jobless rate from January to February.

Unemployment fell to 5.4 percent in December - its lowest rate since April 2008. That rate went up slightly the first month of the year.

Data show the state gained about 8,400 nonfarm jobs in February.

The department also scaled back an earlier estimate that nonfarm employment went up 14,300 jobs in January. The new figures put that at closer to 11,200 new jobs, meaning nonfarm employment rose by about 40,400 jobs in the past year.

March 17, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 031715  

WANTED SIKESTON GUNMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY

A Sikeston man who was wanted for his alleged involvement in two shooting incidents has been taken into custody.

Authorities say 20 year old Tevin Terrell Golden, of Sikeston, was arrested yesterday.  Golden has been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful use of a weapon.

An investigation of a shooting on March 7^th, in which a man was shot in the head, revealed that Golden was in the vehicle with the victim.  While processing the men’s vehicle, investigators found evidence that they may have had been armed and that they had possibly shot from their vehicle.

A second shooting occurred on March 9^th around 11am at the Jackson/Jaycee intersection.  Police believe Golden was involved in the second shooting, as well.

FIVE CHARGED WITH DRUG DISTRIBUTION IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY

The search of an Anniston home has led to the arrest of five people on drug distribution charges.

According to Mississippi County Sheriff Keith Moore, 36 year old Jason Scott Lee, 29 year old Ashliegh Renae Jackson, 37 year old Elizabeth Marlene Cole, 29 year old Jeremy Luther Bradley, and 51 year old Doyle Wayne Wheatley, all of Anniston, have each been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Authorities say the search yielded a large quantity of methamphetamine and amphetamine, three digital scales, hundreds of baggies and other items used in drug distribution.

SIKESTON MAN FACING CHARGES AFTER ASSAULTING AN OFFICER

A Sikeston man is facing an assault charge after he allegedly ran his vehicle into a police car.

Authorities say the incident happened Saturday in Charleston.

An officer with the Charleston Department of Public Safety stopped a vehicle after receiving information that suspicious activity was taking place in a parking lot on South Main Street.

The driver, 25 year old Corian Greer initially stopped, but then ran his car into the officer’s vehicle and ran on foot.

Greer was captured a short time later and charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, resisting arrest, assault on a law enforcement officer and possession of marijuana.

MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES FOR LOWNDES MAN

A Lowndes man is facing multiple drug related charges after being arrested yesterday evening.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 70 year old Larry W. Hornbuckle was taken into custody yesterday shortly after 7:30 pm in Wayne County.

Hornbuckle has been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, marijuana; felony possession of a controlled substance; and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

BENTON MAN FACING GUN CHARGES

A Benton man is facing gun charges after being taken into custody by the Scott County Sheriff’s Department.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 50 year old Kenneth Blankenship has been charged with felon unlawful possession of a firearm.

Sheriff Walter says deputies executed a search warrant at Blankenship’s early Sunday.  During the search, investigators located a .22 caliber handgun in a pocket of a jacket Blankenship was seen wearing.

Blankenship’s past criminal convictions qualified him to be charged with a weapon’s offense.

Another resident of the home, 37 year old Bobbie Joe Wipfler, was also taken into custody on a warrant out of Arkansas.

CHARLESTON MAN SHOTS GUN THROUGH SUNROOF, ARRESTED FOR DRUG POSSESSION

A Charleston man has been arrested and is facing drug possession and firearm related charges.

Authorities say an on duty officer was drawn to the intersection of Lee and Marshall Streets Saturday after hearing gun shots.  The officer witnessed a vehicle leaving the area and initiated a traffic stop.

During a search of the vehicle, police located spent ammunition and drugs.

The driver of the vehicle, 22 year old Demarcus Turner, was taken  into custody and has been charged with unlawful use of a weapon and possession of marijuana.

CAPE MAN ACCUSED OF RAPE

A Cape Girardeau man has been charged with rape after being accused of attacking a woman over the weekend.

The Cape Girardeau Police Department reports that they received a call just before 1 am Sunday from a woman who said she had been assaulted and raped.

Authorities say they located and arrested 19 year old Jacoby T. Wilson about 30 minutes later.

Wilson has been charged with felony rape.

FIRST YEAR LAKE ROAD TEACHER EARNS STATE AWARD

Tyler Lappe, of Lake Road Elementary School, was among 61 teachers in Missouri who won the outstanding beginning teacher award recently during the Missouri Association for Colleges of Teacher Education spring conference in Jefferson City.

Lappe, a third grade teacher in his very first year, “arrives to school early and stays late,” according to the letter of recommendation from his principal, Erica Weadon. “His leadership qualities and work ethic are outstanding,” added Three Rivers College Coordinator of Teacher Education, Madawn Traxel, who submitted the nomination.

Lappe earned his associate degree in teaching elementary education from Three Rivers and received his bachelor’s degree from Hannibal-LaGrange University.

ROUTE B IN DUNKLIN COUNTY CLOSED FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

A portion of Route B in Dunklin County will be closed as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs over culvert.

This affected section of roadway is located between Route BB and Route 62.

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

March 16, 2015

  RIVER RADIO NEWS 031615

SIKESTON POLICE SEEK “ARMED AND DANGEROUS” GUNMAN

Police in Sikeston are looking for a man they say was involved in a shooting incident last week.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, the shooting occurred March 7^th, shortly before 3 am.  They say a man, who was driving, was shot in the head and received minor injuries.  A passenger in the vehicle took the victim to an area hospital and then left before officers were able to question him.

While processing the men’s vehicle, investigators found evidence that they may have had been armed and that they had possibly shot from their vehicle.

A second shooting occurred on March 9^th around 11am at the Jackson/Jaycee intersection.  This shooting is believed to be connected to the incident from Saturday night.

An ongoing investigation revealed the passenger in the vehicle was 20 year old Tevin Terrell Golden, of Sikeston.  Golden is considered armed and dangerous.  He has been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful use of a weapon.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the whereabouts of Golden to contact Crime Stoppers at 573-471-1500.  All tips can remain anonymous and tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.

POPLAR BLUFF FAMILY INJURED IN WEEKEND HOUSE FIRE

A Poplar Bluff family sustained injuries in a house fire early yesterday morning.

Authorities say a 25 year old woman and her son were airlifted to a hospital in Memphis.  A toddler received minor injuries and was treated locally.  The victims names have not yet been released.

The fire broke out at around 2 am at a home on North Street.  An investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.

JONESBORO WOMAN WAKES TO BURGLARS IN HER HOUSE

A Jonesboro woman was awakened early Saturday morning to find two people in her home.

According to the Jonesboro Police Department, the woman said she was sleeping on her couch when she heard a noise in her kitchen.  She discovered two people dressed in black going through her purse.  The suspects then fled the house.

Police say it appears the suspects entered the house after breaking the panes from an outside door.

KENNETT PAIR FACE FIREARM RELATED CHARGES

A pair of Kennett residents are facing a gun charge after being arrested by the Missouri State Highway Patrol yesterday.

According to Patrol report, 32 year old Christina M. Jones and 40 year old John N. Hale were taken into custody in Scott County shortly after midnight.  They each have been charged with felony unlawful possession of firearm.  Hale also faces a tampering with temporary registration charge.

BURGLARS USE VEHICLE TO BREAK INTO STORE

Jonesboro authorities are looking for a man who they say used a vehicle to break down the doors of an area convenience store early Saturday.

Police say video from the Express Mart on North Church Street shows a man in a silver car ramming the front doors multiple times until the doors broke.  An alarm went off and the driver fled the scene.

However, the man returned later and entered the store.  Cash and an iPad were taken.

Anyone with information about the break-in is asked to contact Crimestoppers at 870-935-STOP.

DEXTER WOMAN AND MAN FACING DRUG CHARGES AFTER WEEKEND ARRESTS

A Dexter woman is facing drug charges after her arrest Saturday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 42 year old Myra R. Emerson was taken into custody in Stoddard County and has been charged with possession of a controlled substance, Tramadol and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

The Patrol reports the arrest of a second Dexter resident just minutes later.  52 year old Tony G. Jarrell was taken into custody on charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.  The Patrol did not specify if the two arrests were related.

SIKESTON MAN CAUSES OVER $1000 IN DAMAGE TO PLANTED CROP

A Sikeston man has been accused of causing over $1000 in damage to a planted crop.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, his department responded to a call early Saturday morning about a truck tearing up a farm field planted in winter wheat.  The victim provided authorities with a description of the vehicle and the license plate number.

A registration check showed the truck as registered to 26 year old

Matthew Allan Marks.  A deputy went to Marks’ residence, at which

time Marks told the officer that he was “wasted” and did not remember how he got home or who had been driving his vehicle. He denied any knowledge of damaging any crops because of his intoxication level.

Marks was arrested and submitted to a voluntary breath test. The test result for blood alcohol content was .000, indicating that Marks had not consumed any alcoholic beverage as stated.

Sheriff Walter stated that some folks have a desire to go “mudding” in a field, but fail to consider they may be trespassing, and causing property damage. The Sheriff asks everyone to carefully consider their actions and the related consequences before deciding to participate in any activity of this type.

SCOTT COUNTY CENTRAL GRABS CLASS 2 BOYS TITLE

(AP) - Javonta Daniel scored 23 points while Jeffery Porter added 17 to lead Scott County Central past Mid-Buchanan 53-48 in the Class 2 Boys Championship on Saturday.

Scott County Central captured its state-leading 18th title in school history, including its sixth in the past seven years. The Braves (27-4) previously competed in Class 1 before moving up to Class 2 this season.

Mid-Buchanan trailed throughout the first half but scored the first 10 points of the third quarter to knot the score at 36. The teams then traded points before Scott County Central gained the lead for good with 3:45 remaining on a layup by Porter that made it 48-46.

Garet Moulden finished with 24 points for the Dragons (30-2), who made their first-ever appearance in the title game.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR HEADED TO EUROPE FOR TRADE MISSION

(AP) - Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon plans to visit Italy, Germany and Spain on a trade mission to Europe to promote the state.

The governor's office says the trade mission will include state officials, lawmakers and private business leaders.

Nixon plans to meet with executives from international companies with facilities in the state, including Italian cement and concrete producer Buzzi Unicem and the German-headquartered chemical company BASF.

A spokesman for the governor says the focus of this trip is meeting with private businesses.

The directors of the state departments of agriculture and economic development will accompany the governor.

The trip will begin Friday and end March 28.

March 13, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 031315  

MAN KILLED IN ACCIDENT INVOLVING SEMI TRUCK

A Northeast Arkansas man died Thursday morning in an accident involving a semi truck.

According to KAIT, 59 year old Melvin Merrel, of Ravenden, was working on the truck when it fell off a jack and landed on him.

Merrel was pronounced dead at the scene.

BODY FOUND IN REYNOLDS COUNTY

A body found Thursday in Reynolds County is that of a missing woman.

According to KFVS, the body of Barbara Grillo was discovered Thursday afternoon near her home. Grillo had been missing since mid February.

Authorities reportedly do not suspect foul play in the death.

GREENVILLE MAN ARRESTED ON MURDER WARRANT

A Greenville man is in custody on a warrant for first degree murder.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old Steven Jennewein was arrested on Tuesday on first degree murder and armed criminal action warrants out of Wayne County.

The Highway Patrol did not release any information on what lead to the warrants being issued.

MAN SHOT BY OFFICER IN MALDEN CHARGED

A Malden man has been charged in connection to a shooting involving a police officer.

48 year old Bobby Cantrell allegedly pointed a gun at officers before he was shot Tuesday in Malden. He was then taken to an area hospital for treatment.

Cantrell is facing charges of armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, and two counts of second degree assault on law enforcement.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating the shooting.

SIKESTON MAN CAUGHT SELLING DRUGS NEAR SCHOOL

A Sikeston man is facing charges after he was allegedly caught selling a controlled substance near a school.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, a narcotics investigation led to 8 grams of marijuana being purchased from 29 year old Anthony Kelly. The purchase was made on the parking lot of a business approximately 1,200 feet from the grounds of the Sikeston High School.

Kelly is facing charges including distributing a controlled substance near schools.

MAN ATTEMPTS TO ESCAPE WHILE IN POLICE CUSTODY

A Jonesboro man is back in custody after he allegedly attempted to escape from law enforcement on Thursday.

According to authorities, Raymond Roedel was placed in custody at a Lawrence County Court on multiple charges. While being escorted to jail, he attempted to run from two deputies.

He was subdued outside the courthouse with a stun gun.

MULTIPLE SHOOTINGS UNDER INVESTIGATION IN CHARLESTON

Authorities in Charleston are investigating multiple shooting reports.

According to authorities, three women were injured in one of the shootings on Wednesday. Separate vehicles were also shot in two incidents on Wednesday.

Anyone with information about the incidents is asked to contact the Charleston Department of Public Safety at 573-683-3737.

NEW MADRID MAN ARRESTED ON COCAINE CHARGE

A New Madrid Man was taken into custody Thursday afternoon on a drug related charge.

According to the Highway Patrol, 23 year old Jonathan Conner was arrested in New Madrid County on a felony charge of possession with intent to distribute, cocaine.

Conner also had a warrant for failure to appear for possession of marijuana out of New Madrid County.

DOJ SETTLES LAWSUIT AGAINST MISSOURI NATIONAL GUARD

(AP) - The U.S. Justice Department says it has reached a settlement with the Missouri National Guard over allegations it violated the employment rights of its civilian dual technician employees.

The DOJ's Civil Rights Division said in a news release Thursday that the agreement resolves allegations that the Guard unlawfully required Kinata Holt to give up her civilian employment as a condition of being called to active duty with the Guard's reserve program.

The Guard's refusal to place Holt on furlough or leave of absence from her civilian job resulted in the loss of paid military leave to which she would otherwise have been entitled.

As part of the settlement, the Missouri National Guard will also compensate 137 other civilian National Guard dual technicians who were similarly denied military leave benefits.

March 12, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 031215  

JACKSON MAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY VEHICLE

A Jackson man has died after getting hit by a vehicle Wednesday in Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 88 year old Delmar Feiste reportedly walked into the path of a vehicle on US 61, near Fruitland. Feiste was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the vehicle was uninjured.

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED AFTER GETTING STRUCK BY CAR DOOR

A Doniphan woman was seriously injured Tuesday when she was hit by a car door in Ripley County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 88 year old Opal Lomax was partially in a vehicle when the incident happened.

A different vehicle hit an open door on Lomax’s car which then hit her.

Lomax was taken by ambulance to an area hospital with serious injuries.

EX SENATOR PLEADS GUILTY IN ARKANSAS FEDERAL COURT

(AP) - A former Arkansas state senator has pleaded guilty to a federal mail fraud charge connected to his spending more than $150,000 from a campaign fund.

Paul Bookout of Jonesboro entered the plea Wednesday in U.S. District Court.

Prosecutors said Bookout spent campaign money on clothing, a sound system, liquor and other personal items while claiming it was going toward legitimate political expenses.

A sentencing hearing is pending. He faces 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, though under sentencing guidelines terms could be much less.

Bookout was elected to the state Senate in 2006 to replace his late father and was re-elected in 2010 and 2012.

The Democrat stepped down in 2013 after the Arkansas Ethics Commission fined him for improperly spending campaign money. He declined comment.

HISTORIC DEPOT RESTORATION CONTINUES THANKS TO VOLUNTEERS

The historic Poplar Bluff Depot is one step closer to being restored to its original glory after a group of volunteers spent Saturday working on a number of projects.

Jim Chrisman, with the Poplar Bluff Historic Depot Restoration Corporation, says 33 students with the University of Illinois Students Today Leaders Forever group, eight AmeriCorps volunteers, four community volunteers, and nine board and committee members gathered and split into teams to tackle several projects.

One team spent the day preparing for an upcoming silent auction fundraiser. Another group tackled the demolition of an old chimney. Still another cleaned the 105 year old tile floors in the restrooms, and removed a section of rotten flooring.

THREE RIVERS-SIKESTON RIVER CUTTING CEREMONY SET FOR MARCH 20^TH

A ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Sikeston location of Three Rivers College is scheduled for later this month.

The ceremony will be held at 10 am on Friday, March 20^th. Following the event, an open house will be held from 11 am to 4 pm.

The new $7 million facility features 17 classrooms, including three ITV rooms, four computer labs, and two science labs; along with LPN-to-RN Bridge Program facilities with a state-of-the-art simulation lab. There is also an auditorium/community meeting room that doubles as a 770-person storm shelter.

STATEWIDE CRACKDOWN ON IMPAIRED DRIVING PLANNED FOR ST. PATRICK’S DAY

Over 200 Missouri law enforcement agencies will be participating in a statewide crackdown on impaired driving for St. Patrick’s Day.

Additional officers will be on the road from March 14^th through the 17^th.  According to Missouri State Highway Patrol Colonel Ron Replogle, law enforcement made 247 DWI arrests during a similar campaign last March.

Everyone is reminded to designate a driver or take a cab if they will be drinking while enjoying the holiday.

MISSOURI FIGHTS RULING SAYING COMMON CORE TEST PACT UNLAWFUL

(AP) - Missouri's education department is appealing a ruling that says the state's membership to a Common Core-aligned testing consortium is unconstitutional.

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education on Wednesday issued a statement saying the partnership with the Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium saves money and should continue.

The national education standards for K-12 students and aligned tests have attracted criticism from those who say they were adopted without enough local input.

And a Cole County Circuit judge in February ruled Smarter Balanced is an unlawful interstate compact.

The announcement of the appeal comes a day after the House approved a budget for next fiscal year preventing the state from paying dues to Smarter Balanced.

But the budget still needs Senate approval, and the state could buy those tests without membership.

MISSOURI SENATE PANEL OK’S LIMIT TO RAMS STADIUM BONDS

(AP) - A Missouri Republican's effort to limit Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon's authority to use bonds to fund a new football stadium in St. Louis is moving forward.

A Senate committee Wednesday approved a measure to stop the state from extending or issuing new bonds without Legislature or voter approval.

Senator Ryan Silvey, of Kansas City, says the governor should not be able to put the state into debt on his own.

Members of Nixon's administration have said he has the authority to extend payments on the existing Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis to pay for a new dome with hopes of enticing the Rams to stay or attracting a new team.

Rams owner Stan Kroenke is working to build a new Los Angeles stadium.

March 11, 2015

RIVER RADIO NEWS 031115  

HIGHWAY PATROL INVESTIGATING SHOOTING INVOLVING A MALDEN POLICE OFFICER

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating a Tuesday shooting involving a Malden police officer.

At around 5:18 pm, officers responded to the area of Frisco Park in regards to a reported suicidal subject. The man was found with a handgun that he had allegedly flourished at a citizen near a business.

The man did not drop the weapon when ordered to by officers. He then pointed the gun at a police officer and was shot by another officer.

The subject was taken to an area hospital for treatment. His identity was not released.

MAN FACING CHARGES AFTER REPORTEDLY TRYING TO GRAB OFFICER’S WEAPON

A man allegedly attempted to grab an officer’s stun gun Monday at a Mississippi County facility.

According to KFVS, 48 year old Larry Banks, of Charleston, was in the intake process early Monday morning when he became combative and unsuccessfully attempted to grab an officer’s stun gun.

He was secured following a brief struggle. Banks is facing a charge of attempting to disarm a correctional officer.

NEELYVILLE MAN FOUND IN POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

A Neelyville man is facing two felony charges following his arrest Tuesday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Larry Brown was taken into custody shortly before 8 pm in Butler County on charges of possession of a controlled substance for hydrocodone and tramadol.

AREA RESIDENTS GIVEN OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN ABOUT TELEHEALTH

Area residents will be given the opportunity to learn about Telehealth today at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff.

The “Telehealth Education Delivered” vehicle will be at the medical center from 11 am to 3:30 pm today. VA Public Affairs Officer, Angela Smith says that this is a unique opportunity for Veterans and community members to witness the level of technology offered to telehealth patients.

Demonstrations will be available for free and are open to the public.

MOBILE OFFICE TO BE HELD THURSDAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Poplar Bluff tomorrow to speak with area residents.

The Mobile Office meeting is scheduled for 1:30 to 2:30 pm Thursday at the Poplar Bluff 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.

THREE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI POLICE DEPARTMENTS FAIL TO FILE REQUIRED RACIAL DISPARITY DATA

Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster says three Southeast Missouri Police Departments failed to submit annual racial disparity data to his office by March 1^st, as required by Missouri law.

The three agencies were in Lilbourn, Morley, and Naylor. Koster said his office sent four written notices and called every law enforcement agency that had not yet submitted their data to remind them of their filing obligations under the law.

The annual vehicle stops report provides racial disparity data relating to law enforcement traffic stops. A total of 17 departments statewide failed to submit their data by the required date.

BRIDGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY

Highway 49 in Wayne County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

The work zone is located from County Road 349A to County Road 347.

Work is scheduled to be performed between 8 am and 3 pm.

DUNKLIN COUNTY BRIDGE CLOSED FOR REPLACEMENT

A Dunklin County bridge is closed until August so it can be replaced.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, contractor crews are replacing the Route 53/62 bridge over the Union Pacific railroad in Campbell.

The bridge is scheduled to reopen on Saturday, August 1^st.

MISSOURI PROJECTED TO SEE MORE BAD BRIDGES OVER NEXT DECADE

(AP) - The number of Missouri bridges in poor condition is expected to increase dramatically over the next decade as state funding declines.

State transportation commissioners were told Tuesday that Missouri currently has 600 bridges on state highways that are rated in poor or critical condition but are not in Missouri's five-year plan for improvements.

State Bridge Engineer Dennis Heckman says that number is projected to rise to 1,000 within five years and 1,500 by 2024.

That comes as funding for highway and bridge construction contracts is expected decline sharply.

The state already has closed five bridges because of poor conditions. That includes one that was shut down last month in Macon County over the Thomas Hill Reservoir after a heavy vehicle cracked a hole in the deck.

MISSOURI SENATE ENDORSES MEDICAL MALPRACTICE LAWSUIT CAPS

(AP) - The Missouri Senate has moved forward a measure that would reinstate limits on noneconomic awards in medical malpractice lawsuits against doctors or hospitals.

The Senate gave initial approval Tuesday to limits on noneconomic damages, including pain and suffering, in medical malpractice cases.

The state Supreme Court overturned $350,000 limits in a 2012 case.

Business and health care industry groups have called for new caps since. They warn that without limits, insurance costs will rise and doctors will leave.

The limits are $400,000 in most cases with $700,000 for catastrophic injuries or death. The caps increase 1.7 percent each year.

The measure was a compromise between Democrats and Republicans. Senate Democrats have opposed previous efforts to reinstate caps.

The bill faces another vote in the Senate before going to the House.

MISSOURI HOUSE GRANTS INITIAL APPROVAL TO $26 BILLION DOLLAR BUDGET

(AP) - A spending plan to increase money for Missouri K-12 public education has won initial House approval.

The House spent hours Tuesday tweaking a package of bills that outline a roughly $8.8-billion general revenue budget for next fiscal year.

Combined with federal and other funds, that plan would allow the state to spend more than $26 billion in the fiscal year beginning July 1.

The House budget plan includes roughly $74 million more in basic aid for K-12 schools than this year. But that's still well short of what's called for under a school funding formula.

Lawmakers also approved an amendment Tuesday shifting $1 million previously slotted for the Parents as Teachers program, which provides resources for early childhood development. That money instead would go to the Teach for America program.