Tuesday, March 1st, 2016

   

FREDERICKTOWN TEENAGER KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Fredericktown teenager was killed Sunday night in a single vehicle wreck in Madison County.

According to authorities, 17 year old Haley Admire was driving on County Road 248 when she lost control of her vehicle in a curve and struck a tree.

Admire, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

TWO ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY FOR METH

Two people were taken into custody yesterday in Butler County on a meth related charge.

According to authorities, 37 year old Stacy Boyer, of Williamsville, and 44 year old John Storey, of Neelyville, were arrested shortly before 3 pm Monday.

Boyer is facing charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine and unlawful use of paraphernalia.

Storey has been charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving while revoked.

Authorities say Storey also had a warrant out of Butler County for possession of a controlled substance.

 

NAYLOR NUTRITION CENTER TO HOST FISH FRY ON FRIDAY

The Naylor Nutrition Center will be hosting a fish dinner on Friday, March 4th.

The fish fry will run from 11 am to 12:30 pm and feature catfish, chicken strips, baked beans, slaw, hush puppies, dessert, tea, and coffee.

The price is $7.50 carry out for adults and $3.50 for children.

 

MISSING MAN FOUND DEAD NEAR CLARKTON

Updating a story we brought to you on Monday, authorities have found the body of a missing New Madrid County man.

The body of 56 year old Terry Cunningham was found Monday morning on private property near Clarkton. According to the Highway Patrol, Cunningham’s ATV had gotten stuck in a ditch and overturned.

He had last been seen on the ATV Friday morning.

 

MAN ARRESTED IN POPLAR BLUFF FOLLOWING ALLEGED DOMESTIC ASSAULT

A man is facing a domestic assault charge following an alleged incident on Friday.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tell an officer was dispatched to an area residence Friday night in reference to a domestic in progress.

Robert Lewis was placed under arrest for domestic assault in the second degree and lodged in the Butler County Justice Center.

 

MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY ASSISTANCE PROJECT TO BE HELD THIS MONTH IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Highway Patrol officials tell us that Troop E in Southeast Missouri will be conducting a Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Project sometime this month.

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

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

 

US ROUTE 67 TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK IN WAYNE COUNTY

Missouri Department of Transportation crews are in Wayne County this week for pavement repairs on Northbound US Route 67.

During the repairs, Northbound Route 67 will be reduced to one lane between West Outer Road 67 and County Road 211.

Work is scheduled to take place from 8 am to 4 pm daily through Friday.

Monday February 29, 2016

SEARCH UNDERWAY FOR MISSING NEW MADRID COUNTY MANA search is underway for a missing New Madrid County man.

New Madrid County Sheriff Terry Stevens says 56 year old Terry Cunningham, of Hartzell, has been missing since Friday morning.

He was last seen on a yellow and white Polaris Trailblazer ATV in the Gideon and Clarkton area. An image of Cunningham is available on our Facebook page.

Anyone who has information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, at 573-748-2516.

 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN JAILED ON FELONY METH CHARGE Authorities have taken a Poplar Bluff man in custody on a felony meth charge.

According to the Highway Patrol, 24 year old Steve Montgomery was arrested Friday night on charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine and marijuana possession.

Montgomery reportedly also had a warrant out of Butler County for failure to appear for possession of a controlled substance.

 

ANOTHER AREA COMMUNITY REPORTING TELEPHONE SCAM Another area community is reporting that phone scams have been targeting their residents.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News they have been working several telephone scams in the past few weeks that were especially targeting the elderly.

In the scam the caller will contact the victims and tell them that they are a family member and state they have been put in jail and need some money to be bonded out. At this point the suspect will ask them to send money to a location.

Anyone who receives a call like this is advised to contact the Kennett Police Department or their local law enforcement agency.

 

THREE ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO METHAMPHETAMINE INVESTIGATION An investigation by the Greene County Sheriff’s Department Criminal Investigation Division has resulted in the arrest of three men.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells us that Richard Strong, Nicholas Martin, and Dakota Betts were all taken into custody on Friday.

Carter says the arrests were for delivery of crystal methamphetamine.

 

68 YEAR OLD MAN SHOT AND KILLED DURING ALTERCATION WITH A FAMILY MEMBER Poplar Bluff Police are investigating a shooting death.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tell us that 68 year old Randall Roberts was involved in an altercation with a family member when he was shot and killed last week.

Police are investigating the incident; however officials say it does not appear that charges will be sought at this time.

 

WAYNE COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED FOR 24 HOURS Route 34 in Wayne County will be closed today so contractor crews can perform railroad crossing repairs.

The work zone will be located from County Road 451 to County Road 459.

Route 34 will be closed beginning at 9 am this morning. The road will then reopen at 9 am on Tuesday. Officials say that a detour route will be posted.

Friday February 26, 2016

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE FIND APPROXIMATELY NINE POUNDS OF SUSPECTED MARIJUANA IN CALIFORNIA MAN’S VEHICLEPolice say a California man is in custody in connection to the discovery of approximately nine pounds of suspected marijuana.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley spoke with KWOC News about the arrest.

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SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK LEAVES ADVANCE MAN WITH SERIOUS INJURIES An Advance man suffered serious injuries Wednesday night in a single vehicle wreck in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Highway Patrol tell us that 25 year old Joshua Duncan had swerved to miss an animal on Route O before his vehicle ran off the road, struck an embankment, and overturned.

Duncan, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was taken by ambulance to St. Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau.

 

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG WARRANT A Dexter man has been taken into custody on a drug warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 25 year old Dustin Scott Mitchell was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

As of this morning, Mitchell remained in jail on a $35,000 bond.

 

POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL TO HOST DODGEBALL TOURNAMENT Poplar Bluff Middle School will be hosting a Dodgeball Tournament tomorrow for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The event will start at 10 am at the Poplar Bluff High School gym.

All teams will be coed and can have up to 10 players. There will also be a best t-shirt design contest and a most creative team name contest.

100 percent of the proceeds will go to St. Jude. For more information, call Melanie Schalk at 785-5566.

 

SMOKE DETECTOR INSTILLATION CAMPAIGN EVENT TO BE HELD ON MONDAY Preparations are under way here at River Radio for the upcoming Smoke Detector Instillation Campaign.

Area residents will be able to call in on Monday to set up an appointment to get a smoke detector installed in their residence.

We spoke with Sara Gerau from the American Red Cross about the event.

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The event will run from 7 am to 11 am and you can hear it live here on Today’s Talk 93.3 FM and 930 AM KWOC.

Anyone who cannot make a call during that time period can go online to getasmokealarm.org (GET A SMOKE ALARM DOT ORG) to set up an instillation.

 

MULTIPLE METH ARRESTS MADE WEDNESDAY IN GREENE COUNTY Authorities in Greene County say multiple meth related arrests were made on Wednesday.

According to Greene County Sheriff David Carter, Dennis Huffins and Bailey Bowling were both taken into custody late Wednesday in separate arrests.

Carter says both people were arrested for possession of crystal methamphetamine with purpose to deliver.

 

11TH ANNUAL MASON-DIXON CHILI SOCIETY CHILI COOK OFF SET FOR THIS WEEKEND Many area cooks will be meeting this weekend at the Black River Coliseum to see who can make the best chili.

The 11th Annual Mason-Dixon Chili Society Chili Cook Off is scheduled for 11 am to 2 pm Saturday at the Coliseum.

Proceeds from the event will go to the United Gospel Rescue Mission. For more information, contact Sandy Wood at 573-778-8157.

 

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN MOCK SHARK TANK Poplar Bluff middle school students recently presented some of their innovative ideas during a mock ‘Shark Tank.’

Students went before a panel of judges with inventions including a baseball fetcher, Wi-Fi enhancer, shoe-tying device, singing voice corrector, vital organ preserver and scented T-shirt for when deodorant application is forgotten.

Students started the cross-curricular project-based learning assignment last month by studying famous inventors and the impact their innovations had on society. They then thought up inventions to resolve inconveniences in their own lives, and made commercials to sell the products to their classmates.

Finally, Sixth Grade Science Teacher Cody Young selected the top six groups to participate in the ‘Shark Tank,’ which was modeled after the popular reality series.

Thursday February 25, 2016

KENNETT MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO SECOND DEGREE MURDERA Kennett man will be sentenced in April after pleading guilty to a murder charge.

According to Missouri Case Net, Allan Branum pled guilty to 2nd degree murder on Wednesday. The charge is in connection to the 2014 shooting death of his wife Regena Branum.

Branum’s sentencing date was set for April 21st.

 

PIEDMONT MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES A Piedmont man is facing multiple drug related charges following his arrest in Wayne County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell us that 25 year old Timothy Whitaker was taken into custody shortly after 6 pm Wednesday on charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana.

Whitaker is also facing a felony charge of 1st degree child endangerment.

 

SECOND CANDIDATE FILES FOR BUTLER COUNTY EASTERN DISTRICT COMMISSIONER A second candidate has filed for the Butler County Eastern District Commissioner seat.

Broseley resident Bobby King filed for the spot on Wednesday. King is challenging incumbent Don Anderson who filed for reelection on Tuesday.

The primary election will be held in August.

 

THREE RIVERS LITERARY MAGAZINE RECEIVES NATIONAL HONORS Three Rivers College’s annual literary journal has been chosen for a national honor.

“Confluence,” received two awards from the American Scholastic Press Association for its 2015 issue. The journal, which is put together by the college’s languages department, contains poetry, short fiction, and essays written by Three Rivers’ students, faculty, and staff.

“Confluence” was one of five literary magazines to receive “First Place with Merit.” The award is given for excellence in design, layout, content, and editing. The journal also received the Outstanding Theme award for its “Back to the Future” theme.

The magazine is distributed for free each year at Three Rivers’ open mic poetry night. This year’s event will be held on Tuesday, April 26th, at 6 pm in room 108 of the Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center on the college’s Poplar Bluff campus.

Admission to the event is free.

 

ARREST MADE AFTER STOLEN ITEMS RECOVERED FROM DUNKLIN COUNTY RESIDENCE One man has been arrested after authorities recovered several stolen items from a Dunklin County residence.

A search warrant was executed at the residence in Senath and authorities found items, including hand tools and four wheelers, which had been taken during burglaries in Dunklin and Pemiscot Counties.

31 year old Trent Martin, of Senath, was taken into custody. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and more arrests could be made.

 

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON WAYNE COUNTY WARRANTS A Poplar Bluff woman has been taken into custody in Butler County on multiple warrants.

According to authorities, 37 year old Tracy Rodgers was arrested Wednesday night on Wayne County warrants for narcotic possession and identity theft.

Following the arrest, Rodgers was held in the Butler County Jail.

 

ONLY TWO COMPETITIVE RACES SO FAR FOR MISSOURI SENATE AND HOUSE SEATS AFFECTING BUTLER COUNTY Missouri State Senator Doug Libla and State Representative Steve Cookson are both facing Democratic challengers to their seats this fall.

Both Republicans filed for reelection this week to the Missouri Senate and House of Representatives on Tuesday.

Bill Burlison, of Wardell, filed for Libla’s position as Senator for District 25, which covers eight counties including Butler, Stoddard, and Carter.

Cookson will face Matt Michel, of Fairdealing, for representative of District 153, which covers all of Carter and Ripley County, along with Northern Butler County and Southern Wayne County.

Southeast Missouri’s Representative for the United States Congress will have a race in both the primary and the general election this year.

Incumbent Jason Smith, of Cape Girardeau, will take on Todd Mahn, of Desoto, and Phillip Smith, of Gatewood, in the Republican primary. Libertarian Jonathan Shell, of Fredericktown, also filed for the seat.

 

MEETING TO BE HELD IN QULIN TO DISCUSS UPCOMING BUTLER AND DUNKLIN COUNTY BRIDGE PROJECT Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be holding a public meeting today in Qulin to discuss an upcoming bridge project in Butler and Dunklin Counties.

The project includes constructing a bridge over the St. Francis River on Route 53 to replace the existing St. Francis River and overflow bridges at the location.

Improvements are expected to begin in Spring 2017, with completion anticipated in Fall 2018.

A public meeting to discuss the project will be held from 4 to 6 pm at the Qulin Middle School.

Project Manager Eric Krapf tells us that visitors can stop-by anytime between 4 and 6 pm to discuss the details of the project with a member of the project team and provide their comments.

Wednesday February 24, 2016

FILING OPENS FOR BUTLER COUNTY PRIMARY ELECTIONFiling has started for the Butler County Primary Election to be held in August.

According to Butler County Clerk Tonyi Deffendall, 11 Republicans filed for the election Tuesday morning.

Butler County Public Administrator Sharron Payne and Sheriff Mark Dobbs, and Eastern District Commissioner Don Anderson all filed for reelection.

Jeff Rolland, Terry Cochran, Paul Petty, and Dennis LeGrand all entered the race for Western District Commissioner. Chris Rickman and Penny McGath are both seeking the Assessor position. Andy Moore and Bob Crawford both filed for Coroner.

 

ONE TO THREE INCHES OF SNOW POSSIBLE FOR THIS MORNING IN POPLAR BLUFF Another round of winter weather is sweeping over the area this morning and motorists are advised to slow down while on the road.

Snow and rain is expected to continue throughout the day today with snow accumulation possibly getting up to around 3 inches in Poplar Bluff.

Some of our northern counties could receive around four inches of snow.

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 6 pm. A Wind Advisory has also been issued due to frequent wind gusts which could hit 50 miles per hour.

 

TWO ARRESTED ON METH CHARGES IN WAYNE COUNTY Two Piedmont residents are facing a meth charge in connection to their arrest Tuesday evening in Wayne County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 43 year old George McMullin and 33 year old Kimberly Meinhardt were each taken into custody shortly before 6 pm on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

They are both also facing child endangerment charges.

 

BROSELEY WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK Authorities say an area woman was injured Tuesday night in a single vehicle wreck.

According to authorities, a vehicle driven by 55 year old Connie Diel, of Broseley, ran off the side of County Road 621 in New Madrid County and struck a utility pole.

Diel was taken to Missouri Delta Hospital in Sikeston with serious injuries.

 

ADDITIONAL CHARGES FILLED AGAINST TWO BENTON RESIDENTS Two Benton residents who were arrested last month for possession of child pornography are now facing additional charges.

Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter tells us that Grand Jury Indictment warrants have been issued for 67 year old Clayton Counts and 58 year old Judith Gray.

The two were arrested in January after deputies found an inappropriate photograph of a child who was less than 18 years of age in a Benton residence. The victim identified the photograph as one that Clayton Counts had taken.

Counts has been charged with seven counts of 1st degree statutory rape, three counts of forcible rape, three counts of forcible sodomy, possession of child pornography, and unlawful use of a firearm. He remains in the Scott County Jail on a $100,000 cash only bond.

Judith Gray has been charged with three counts of forcible rape, three counts of forcible sodomy, and possession of child pornography. Gray is in custody with a $50,000 cash or surety bond.

 

WAPPAPELLO WOMAN CHARGED WITH FELONY ASSAULT FOLLOWING WRECK A Wappapello woman is facing a felony assault charge following a Monday night wreck in Stoddard County.

According to the Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 63 year old Elizabeth Poirier ran into a ditch off of the North Outer Road of US 60 near Dexter.

Both Poirier and a passenger in the vehicle suffered moderate injuries.

A short time after the wreck, Poirier was arrested on charges of careless and imprudent driving resulting in an accident and felony 2nd degree assault.

 

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC TEAM RECEIVES $1000 IN GRANTS Poplar Bluff students will be able to go to quiz bowl camp thanks to recent grant money.

The Academic Assistance Group approved a $750 mini-grant for the Poplar Bluff High School Academic Team to go toward registration and travel to the 2016 ACE Quiz Bowl.

Matt’s Buzzers, an international program, has also awarded an additional $250 so the Academic Team can purchase a replacement buzzer system.

Tuesday February 23, 2016

KINDERGARTEN STUDENT HIT BY VEHICLE IN SIKESTONThe condition of a child that was hit by a vehicle Monday morning has not been released.

According to authorities, the kindergarten student ran into the road and was hit while waiting for a school bus in Sikeston.

Following the incident, the child was taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

 

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO OFFER HISET TEST IN CARUTHERSVILLE Three Rivers College will be offering a High School equivalence test next month in Caruthersville.

The HiSET High School Equivalence Test will be administered on Saturday, March 19th from 8 am to 4 pm at the Caruthersville High School.

The HiSET is an online test that covers writing, essay, math, science, social studies and reading.

The test is offered at the Three Rivers College main campus in Poplar Bluff on one Saturday a month.

Testing Coordinator Diane Patterson says that the March 19th exam is being offered to give people in surrounding areas a chance to take the HiSET closer to home.

For more information or to register for the test, go online to hiset.ets.org. The deadline to register is March 11th.

 

KIWANIS PANCAKE DAY SCHEDULED FOR MARCH 5TH The Kiwanis of Poplar Bluff will be hosting a Pancake Day next month.

The event will be held on Saturday, March 5th from 6 am to noon at the Poplar Bluff Junior High Cafeteria.

Tickets for the event are $5 and get you sausage, a drink, and all you can eat pancakes. Carry out will also be available. The event is being held to benefit Bacon Park.

 

FOURTEEN CITATIONS ISSUED DURING DEXTER CLICK IT OR TICKET MOBILIZATION Officials with the Dexter Police Department tell us that 14 traffic citations were issued as a part of a click it or ticket mobilization held last week.

The mobilization on February 19th was a part of a statewide effort to get more motorists to buckle up.

Of the 14 citations issued, five were for motorists not wearing their seat belts.

 

DONIPHAN POLICE REPORT MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS OF SCAM PHONE CALLS Authorities in Doniphan say they have received multiple reports of phone scam in the area.

Doniphan Police officials tell us that a business and an individual made the reports on Monday. They had received a call where a individual would say they are from Ozark Border and if you don't pay them now your electric would be shut off.

The caller would know the exact amount of your last bill and then they give you a number to call. Officials with Ozark Border say this is a scam.

Police say that if you are to receive a call like this, do not give out any information or call the number they provide.

 

DATE SET FOR FAFSA FRENZY AT THREE RIVERS COLLEGE The date has been set for the next FAFSA Frenzy event at Three Rivers College.

The event will be held on Sunday, February 28th from 2 to 4 pm.

FAFSA Frenzy is designed to help college students complete the FAFSA, a form required for federal financial aid. The event is open to all prospective college students, whether or not they intend to attend Three Rivers.

Students who attend the event will be entered to win a state scholarship, provided they enroll in a Missouri postsecondary program in the fall.

Participants should bring their 2015 W-2 forms, as well as copies of their 2015 tax forms if ready. If students or their parents have not yet filed 2015 returns, they should bring any statements of interest earned in 2015, any 1099 forms, and any other forms required to complete taxes.

For more information, go online to trcc.edu.

 

WESTWOOD BAPTIST ACADEMY LADY EAGLES CLAIM STATE CHAMPIONSHIP The Westwood Baptist Academy Lady Eagles basketball team is celebrating a state championship.

The Lady Eagles beat Heartland Christian from Belton, 40 to 33 on Saturday to win the Missouri Christian School Athletic Association 2A Girls' Basketball Championship.

Junior Shyla Brisher led the Lady Eagles in scoring with 14 points, closely followed by Freshman Maddy Brisher with 13 points, and Junior Sophie Nowak who had 10 points.

Monday February 22, 2016

BERNIE MAN ARRESTED ON STATUTORY SODOMY CHARGEA Bernie man has been taken into custody on a sodomy charge.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell us that 61 year old Robert Glenn Moore was recently arrested for 2 counts of 1st degree statutory sodomy.

According to the Sheriff’s Department, Moore was still in custody as of this morning.

 

BROSELEY MAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF XANAX An area man is facing a drug charge in connection to his arrest Friday morning in Dunklin County.

According to authorities, 53 year old Terry Haley, of Broseley, was arrested on a charge of felony drug possession - Xanax. He is also charged with driving while intoxicated.

After the arrest, Haley was taken to the Dunklin County Jail on a 24 hour hold.

 

PERSON CLAIMING TO WITH MUNICIPAL UTILITIES REPORTEDLY ATTEMPTING TO SCAM POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENTS Poplar Bluff Police tell us that a person is attempting to scam area residents over the phone.

On Friday the Poplar Bluff Police Department received a complaint that someone claiming to be a representative of Municipal Utilities was calling Poplar Bluff residents.

The caller told the Utilities customer that their account was past due; and threatened to disconnect their power unless the customer gave a check number for payment over the phone.

Police are advising that if you receive such a call, you should hang up immediately and call Municipal Utilities directly to ask about your account.

Do not give anyone your personal or financial information over the phone.

 

CHAFEE MAN IN CUSTODY FOR ALLEGED POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY A search warrant led to the arrest of a Chaffee man on Friday.

Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter tells us that the warrant was executed Friday at the residence of 45 year old George Hyman Arensmann. Authorities had previously received a report that Arensmann was suspected of being in possession of illegal images of children.

During the search, authorities seized multiple computer discs containing photographs of persons under the age of 18.

Walter says many of the photographs were depicting children inappropriately dressed and in provocative poses.

Officers also found a firearm accessory which was identified by Arensmann as a homemade firearm silencer.

Arensmann was arrested and has been charged with possession of child pornography and possession of a firearm silencer.

The case is still under investigation and Walter tells us that he expects additional charges to be filed.

 

DONIPHAN MAN FACING FELONY FIREARM CHARGE Authorities in Carter County have arrested a Doniphan man on a felony firearm charge.

According to the Highway Patrol, 26 year old Kristopher Gatewood is facing a felony charge of possession of a stolen firearm.

Gatewood was arrested at around 10:20 am Sunday morning in Carter County.

 

MALDEN TEENAGER FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING ATV WRECK A Malden teenager was flown to a St. Louis hospital over the weekend following an ATV wreck in New Madrid County.

According to authorities, the 16 year old male was not wearing a safety device when he lost control and was ejected from the ATV Sunday evening.

The teen was taken via Air Evac to Children’s Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries.

 

RIVER RADIO TO HOST SMOKE DETECTOR EVENT ON FEBRUARY 29TH River Radio in Poplar Bluff will be hosting an event on Monday, February 29th to help area residents get a smoke detector in their homes.

Residents will be able to call from 7 am to 11 am able to set up an appointment to get a smoke detector installed in their residence. Red Cross volunteers and area fire departments will then be sent out on March 12th to install the smoke detectors.

The event is being done in conjunction with the American Red Cross and the Poplar Bluff and Butler County Fire Departments for the Nationwide Smoke Detector Instillation Campaign.

 

KELSO C-7 STUDENTS EVACUATED FROM SCHOOL DUE TO STRUCTURAL DAMAGE Students and staff were evacuated Friday from Kelso C-7 elementary school due to structural damage suffered by the school building.

Officials say no students, staff, or faculty were injured at any point.

An initial evaluation of the building was made and a temporary repair was completed by a general contractor. A plumbing company was asked to evaluate the situation as well.

However, students will not be allowed back in the building until more permanent repairs can be made and professional clearance is given.

There will be no classes held today. Beginning on Tuesday, students should report to the St. Lawrence campus.

Officials say a Town hall meeting will be held tonight at 6 pm in the Parrish center gym to discuss what happened, answer questions, and allow parents to see where their students will be having class.

Friday, February 19th, 2016

   

PUXICO WOMAN SUFFERS SERIOUS INJURIES IN NEW MADRID COUNTY WRECK

A Puxico woman was seriously injured Thursday morning following a two vehicle wreck in New Madrid County.

According to the Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on US 60, three miles east of Morehouse, when a vehicle failed to yield to oncoming traffic and struck another vehicle. The second vehicle then ran off the side of the road and struck a ditch.

A passenger in the second vehicle, 69 year old Judy Miller, suffered serious injuries and was taken to Missouri Delta in Sikeston. No other injuries were reported.

 

TWO WILLIAMSVILLE MEN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGES IN WAYNE COUNTY

Two Williamsville men were taken into custody Thursday afternoon in Wayne County.

According to authorities, 33 year old Brian Middleton and 28 year old Allen Minor were each taken into custody shortly after 2 pm on Thursday.

Each man is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a controlled substance - hydrocodone.

 

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY HITTING HER BOYFRIEND

A Poplar Bluff woman was arrested on Wednesday following a reported domestic assault.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, at around 4:40 pm Wednesday the victim told police that he had been struck in the head with a small liquor bottle by his girlfriend 42 year old Brenda Garmon. Police say the victim had a cut on his head which he claimed he sustained from being struck with the bottle.

At the time, the victim said he wanted to collect some warm clothing and leave the residence for the evening.

Later that night the victim returned to the residence to collect some clothes when he and Garmon exchanged words. The victim told police that Garmon had then struck him in the nose.

Garmon was taken into custody without incident. She was lodged in the Butler County Justice Center on a charge of domestic assault.

 

SWIMMER AND BASKETBALL PLAYER NAMED AS POPLAR BLUFF ATHLETES OF THE MONTH

A Poplar Bluff Swimmer and Basketball player have been announced as the January Athletes of the Month.

The Mules Booster Club gave the awards Poplar Bluff High School Junior basketball player Willie Lucas Jr. and freshman swimmer Raegan McAtee.

Lucas averages 21.4 points, 10 rebounds and two blocks per game, while maintaining a 9.0 GPA.

McAtee qualified for states in the 50 and 100 freestyle, the 200 and 400 freestyle relay, and the 200 medley relay. In the classroom, she has earned a 10.857 GPA.

 

SENATOR ROY BLUNT TO KICK OFF REELECTION BID THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF

United States Senator Roy Blunt is set to kick off his reelection tour this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

The Senator will announce his reelection campaign at 12:45 pm Saturday at the Shooter’s Shack. Blunt has served in the Senate since 2011.

Thursday February 18, 2016

NEW COMMANDING OFFICER NAMED FOR TROOP E OF THE MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROLAn Air Force veteran and former member of the Missouri Air National Guard will be the new commanding officer for Troop E of the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Jeffrey Vitale will be promoted to captain and take over the post on April 1st. In addition to the Air Force and Air National Guard, Vitale has served for the St. Louis County Police and various positions in the Highway Patrol.

Vitale has been a Lieutenant in Troop E since 2006. Troop E, which is based in Poplar Bluff, serves 13 counties in Southeast Missouri.

 

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD TO DISCUSS FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM AT MEETING TONIGHT The food service program is one of many items on the agenda for the Poplar Bluff R-1 Board of Education meeting tonight.

We spoke with Poplar Bluff Superintended Chris Hon about the meeting.

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Additional issues to be discussed include additional staffing for the next school year and a technology proposal for middle school students.

The next school board meeting has been scheduled for March 17th.

 

RAPE SUSPECT ARRESTED IN KENNETT Authorities say a rape suspect has been arrested in Kennett.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell us that officers were dispatched to an area early Wednesday morning in connection to a reported rape.

A suspect was identified during an investigation and later taken into custody. The suspect, a 36 year old male from Malden, was taken to the Dunklin County Jail following the arrest.

 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK Authorities say a Poplar Bluff man is facing charges following a single vehicle wreck in Pemiscot County.

According to the Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 42 year old Jason Pratt ran off the left side of Route NN early Wednesday morning and overturned.

Pratt was taken to Pemiscot Memorial Hospital in Hayti with serious injuries.

Pratt is facing multiple charges including driving while intoxicated - drugs, driving while revoked, failure to drive on the right half of the roadway, and felony possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

 

BUTLER COUNTY CLERK DISCUSSES UPCOMING ELECTIONS Elections season is starting to ramp up here in Missouri and we spoke with Butler County Clerk Tonyi Deffendall about some upcoming dates that voters need to know.

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Deffendall added that if you have questions about registering or your local voting location, you can contact the Butler County Clerk’s Office at 686-8050.

 

MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE AFTER BEING FOUND PASSED OUT IN A VEHICLE A man has been arrested after he was found passed out in a vehicle in Kennett.

According to the Kennett Police Department, Kennett police were dispatched to the Central Street area earlier this week in reference to a man slumped over the steering wheel of a vehicle.

At the scene, officers found 47 year old Ronald Wake passed out. Wake was later arrested for possession of a controlled substance and was held in the Dunklin County Jail.

 

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS GIVEN TEN DOLLARS AND ASKED TO DO SOMETHING FOR THE COMMUNITY Poplar Bluff students in a senior composition class were recently tasked with doing something kind and simple for the community.

The project was a part of a book study on the book, “The Ultimate Gift.” Students had to complete a journal entry for each chapter in the book, which focused on a different type of gift, material or otherwise.

The final project had each student given 10 dollars and asked to do something for the community.

Students donated to organizations and funds such as Haven House and the Kaitlyn Pullam Scholarship; paid a portion of a hotel for someone traveling for medical care; gave money to a random stranger at Wal-Mart; taped the $10 to a car seat; and bought diapers, meals, cards, school supplies, and materials for a blanket.

The funding came from a mini-grant supplied by the nonprofit Academic Assistance Group.

 

Wednesday February 17, 2016

SEARCH WARRANT LEADS TO ARREST OF FOUR IN CORNINGFour people were taken into custody Monday after authorities executed a search warrant at a residence in Corning.

According to Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller, officers located several articles of drug paraphernalia and multiple baggies of suspected methamphetamine within the residence.

Miller tells us that 23 year old Tiffany Hawkins, of Corning, 62 year old Ralph Dodd, of Knobel, 34 year old June Yandell, of Corning, and 44 year old James Yandell, of Corning were taken into custody.

Following the search, officers conducted a separate search at Ralph Dodd’s residence and located a large amount of suspected methamphetamines, a large quantity of money, and several items of drug paraphernalia.

The four arrestees are each facing charges including possession of a controlled substance with intent – methamphetamine.

 

PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED TO DISCUSS ROUTE 53 BRIDGE PROJECT Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be hosting a public meeting in Qulin next week to discuss constructing a new Route 53 bridge over the St. Francis River in Butler and Dunklin Counties.

The project manager tells us that Visitors can stop by the Qulin Middle School anytime between 4 and 6 pm on February 25th to discuss the details of the project and provide comments.

The project will include constructing a Route 53 bridge over the St. Francis River on a new alignment to replace the existing bridges at the location.

Traffic will remain on existing structures as construction is underway. Improvements are expected to begin in spring of 2017, with completion anticipated in fall of 2018.

 

POPLAR BLUFF TRAP TEAM HOSTING FUNDRAISER RAFFLE The Poplar Bluff Trap Shooting Team is raffling off a rare gun to raise money for the Poplar Bluff Trap Team.

The team is raffling off a Winchester Model 70 Super Grade, chambered in .280 Remington. The team says there were fewer than 500 of this type of gun made. Tickets are being sold for the raffle for $5 through Wednesday, February 24th.

If you would like to purchase a ticket, contact Donald Cash at 776-5642 or Ralph Stucker at 429-1314. The drawing for the gun will be held March 1st. All proceeds will go to benefit the Poplar Bluff Trap Team.

 

DEXTER POLICE TO PARTICIPATE IN STATEWIDE YOUTH SEAT BELT CRACK DOWN Dexter Police will be participating in a statewide youth seat belt mobilization next month.

The crackdown has been scheduled for March 15th through March 31st.

Lieutenant Joshua Benton tells us that local motorists should be prepared for stepped up seat belt enforcement.

According to the Dexter Police Department only 68 percent of Missouri teens wear their seat belts when driving or riding in a motor vehicle and eight out of ten teens killed in traffic crashes are unbuckled.

 

TODAY IS DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO VOTE IN MISSOURI PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARIES Anyone who wishes to vote in the upcoming presidential primary needs to make sure they are registered by 5 pm this evening.

That is the deadline to register for the March 15th presidential preference primary. You can register at your local election authority, any Department of Motor Vehicles office, or state agency that provides services to the public as well as online.

To register to vote or find a local place to register, go online to GoVoteMissouri.com.

 

GRANT FUNDING BEING OFFERED PROJECT PROM AND PROJECT GRADUATION EVENTS Local schools are being offered grant funding for project prom and graduation events.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, studies show there’s a prom-to-graduation corridor, when hundreds of students across this country get into car accidents and suffer serious consequences. While most traffic accidents are alcohol related, teens who aren’t drinking are still at risk.

Grant applications are being accepted by the Southeast Region of the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety through March 19th. Interested schools and/or their sponsors can obtain applications by calling 1-888-ASK-MoDOT.

These grants can include reimbursement of expenses for event location rental, food, entertainment, and more. Qualifying schools will receive $200 each for one of these special event nights.

Tuesday February 16, 2016

POPLAR BLUFF MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON MULTIPLE FELONY DRUG CHARGESAuthorities in Butler County say an area man has been taken into custody on multiple felony drug charges.

26 year old Curtis Dugas, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested Monday afternoon in Butler County on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

Dugas is also facing charges of possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving while suspended.

 

DENSE FOG ADVISORY IN EFFECT FOR SOUTHEAST MISSOURI Driving conditions will be poor for much of Southeast Missouri this morning due to a dense fog that is blanketing the area.

The National Weather Service has issued a Dense Fog Advisory that is in effect through 9 am. Visibility will average less than a mile and could be near zero in scattered areas.

Freezing temperatures overnight may also resulted in slick spots in roadways.

Motorists have been advised to slow down, use your headlights, and leave plenty of distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you.

 

RIVER RADIO TO HOST SMOKE DETECTOR EVENT ON FEBRUARY 29TH River Radio in Poplar Bluff will be hosting an event on Monday, February 29th to help area residents get a smoke detector in their homes.

Residents will be able to call from 7 am to 11 am able to set up an appointment to get a smoke detector installed in their residence. Red Cross volunteers and area fire departments will then be sent out on March 12th to install the smoke detectors.

The event is being done in conjunction with the American Red Cross and the Poplar Bluff and Butler County Fire Departments for the Nationwide Smoke Detector Instillation Campaign.

 

MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY WARRANT FOLLOWING TRAFFIC STOP IN KENNETT A Kennett man has been arrested on a drug charge and felony warrant.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell us that an officer conducted a traffic stop Monday morning.

During the stop, officers arrested Detrick Ray on a felony warrant out of Dunklin County for 2nd degree domestic assault. Officers conducted a search and found various narcotics in Ray’s possession as well.

Ray was taken to the Dunklin County Jail on an additional charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

 

JEFFERSON CITY WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK A Jefferson City woman was seriously injured Monday in a Butler County wreck.

According to authorities, the wreck occurred when a vehicle slid off of US 60 and overturned at around 1:20 am Monday morning.

A passenger in the vehicle, 62 year old Adrian Taylor, was ejected from the vehicle during the wreck. She was taken to the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center with serious injuries.

No injuries were listed for the driver of the vehicle.

 

MUSIC FOR A CAUSE CONCERT AND FOOD DRIVE SCHEDULED FOR FEBRUARY 19TH You can support a local organization and hear some music at an event scheduled for this month in Poplar Bluff.

The Music for a Cause Concert and Food Drive will be held on Friday, February 19th at the American Legion Post 153 on PP Highway. Doors will open at 6 pm and attendees are asked to bring one canned food item to enter.

Proceeds from the event will go to support the Bread Shed in Poplar Bluff.

 

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL ROBOTICS CLUB QUALITIES FOR STATE COMPETITION The Poplar Bluff High School Robotics Club has qualified for a state competition that will be held next month.

The Iron Mules won their division and placed second overall in the FIRST Tech Challenge, which was held earlier this month at the Show Me Center in Cape Girardeau.

Students had to navigate their classroom-assembled robots through a series of obstacles, scoring points by moving items and climbing to different areas throughout the course. A total of 52 schools participated throughout the region.

The Iron Mules will go on to compete statewide on Saturday, March 5th, at the Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla.

Monday February 15, 2016

REMEMBER TO WATCH OUT FOR SLICK SPOTSArea motorists are reminded to be cautious while on the roadways this morning.

Officials with the National Weather Service tell us the wintery precipitant that fell on Valentine’s Day has left slick and hazardous road condition scattered across Southeast Missouri.

Some light freezing drizzle overnight could aggravate the problem in a few areas as well.

A hazardous weather outlook states that road conditions should improve later this morning as surface temperatures warm above freezing.

 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FLOWN TO A ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL AFTER HITTING TREE A Poplar Bluff man was flown to a St. Louis hospital Friday after he hit a tree.

According to authorities, 55 year old Clay Pruett was seriously injured after his vehicle ran off the side of US 67 and struck a tree, 10 miles north of Poplar Bluff.

Following the wreck, Pruett was taken by Air Evac to Barnes Jewish hospital in St. Louis.

 

PRISONER VISITS TO NOW BE DONE OVER VIDEO CAMERA AT BUTLER COUNTY JUSTICE CENTER Technology is changing how prisoner visits will work at the Butler County Justice Center.

Visitors will now speak with inmates over video camera stations set up in the lobby of the facility or from a remote location, instead of through a Plexiglas barrier.

Anyone wishing to use the system will need to schedule the visit at least 24 hours in advance. Inmates are allowed 1 onsite visit and 2 remote visits per week.

For more information, go online to icsvideovisit.com/butler.

 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN NOMINATED TO SEISMIC SAFETY COMMISSION A Poplar Bluff man been nominated to a Missouri state commission.

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon nominated Daryl R. Sorrell to the Seismic Safety Commission. The commission provides, with the assistance of state and federal agencies, a program to help the state respond to a major earthquake either in Missouri, or affecting Missouri.

Sorrell is a CPA and general manager of M&A Electric Power Cooperative. He also is a board member of Associated Electric Power Cooperative.

 

DRUGS FOUND IN VEHICLE AFTER TRAFFIC STOP Poplar Bluff Police say two people were arrested on warrants following a recent traffic stop.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department an officer conducted the stop Wednesday afternoon on a vehicle bearing no visible state registration.

During the stop, the officer was informed that the driver, 31 year old Samantha Stout, and passenger, George Childress the 3rd, both had active warrants.

Both people were then taken into custody. While searching the vehicle, officers reportedly found multiple Alprazolam pills along with a small plastic baggie of suspected marijuana.

Stout is now facing charges of possession of drugs and possession of up to 35 grams of marijuana.

 

ORAN MAN CHARGED WITH SEXUAL ABUSE AND SODOMY An Oran man has been taken into custody following an incident where he allegedly assaulted a woman at his apartment.

Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter tells us that the victim contacted authorities on February 4th and told them that 55 year old Richie Dock had sexually assaulted her.

Dock, a registered sex offender, was arrested on felony charges of 1st Degree sexual abuse, 1st Degree sodomy, and felonious restraint.

Walter says Dock was held in custody on a $25,000 bond.

 

GUARDRAIL IMPROVEMENTS SET TO BEGIN TODAY IN BUTLER AND CARTER COUNTIES A two and a half month project is set to begin today in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, east and westbound Route 60 in Butler and Carter Counties will be reduced, with a 16 foot width restriction, so contractor crews can perform guardrail improvements.

The work zone is located from Carter Creek Bridge to County Road 409.

Weather permitting; work will be performed today through Friday, April 29th from 7 am to 5:30 pm daily.

 

$500 AWARDED TO EUGENE FIELD ELEMENTARY FOR BOOK PURCHASES A Poplar Bluff elementary school has been awarded $500 to purchase book sets for third graders.

Ronald McDonald House Charities awarded the money to Eugene Field Elementary. Teacher April Sandlin had applied for the grant and local McDonald’s owner Steve Sells delivered the check last week.

This is not the first time Eugene Field has received money from the program. Principal Jennifer Taylor tells us that the elementary school has received funding from RMHC in the past, allowing for the purchase of playground equipment.

 

 

Friday February 12, 2016

SEX OFFENDER ARRESTED IN POPLAR BLUFFPoplar Bluff Police arrested a sex offender Wednesday after receiving information that the man was downloading child pornography.

We spoke with Deputy Police Chief Jeff Rolland about the arrest.

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Police officials later said that they will be requesting a No Bond warrant due to the potential danger that Mr. Sivley poses to children and the public.

 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody Wednesday on a charge of possession of a controlled substance.

According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Office, 44 year old Danny McKinnon was arrested during a traffic stop after a Sheriff’s Deputy found a syringe with blood and fluid located in a door panel.

A small bag containing a white crystallized substance was later located in McKinnon’s right pocket. Authorities say McKinnon also had an active probation warrant for non-support.

Another man in the vehicle, Tommy Green, was taken into custody for an active warrant from the Poplar Bluff Police Department.

 

UPCOMING HOLIDAYS TO CAUSE CLOSURES OF DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS Two upcoming holidays will cause driver examination stations across Missouri to be closed.

John Hotz with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells us that the stations will be closed this Friday in observance of President Lincoln’s birthday, and Monday, February 15th, in observance of President Washington’s birthday.

Normal operations are scheduled to resume on Tuesday, February 16th.

 

LIONS CLUB AUCTION TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND The Poplar Bluff Lion’s Club will be holding their annual TV Auction this weekend.

The auction has been scheduled for 9 am to 4 pm on Saturday. City residents with New Wave television can watch the auction on Channel 2.

For more information, call 573-609-4683.

 

IDENTITY RELEASED OF SUSPECT IN SIKESTON SHOOTING Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, a man has been named as the suspect in a recent shooting in Sikeston.

According to authorities, 29 year old Chester Brown is facing charges including armed criminal action, unlawful possession of a firearm, and assault in connection to the shooting of a 23 year old Sikeston man.

Captain James McMillen with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells us that the victim was found with several gunshot wounds to his torso and legs Wednesday morning. The victim was then taken to an area hospital for surgery.

Brown was later taken into custody without incident.

 

MISSING IRON COUNTY BODY LIKELY DIED OF HYPOTHERMIA Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, a missing Iron County boy who was found dead on Wednesday likely died of hypothermia.

That was the preliminary result from an autopsy conducted Thursday on 3 year old Titus Greyson Tackett. The boy was reported missing early Wednesday by his family. He was later found in a neighbor's van wrapped in a blanket.

There were no signs of bruising or abuse according to the autopsy.

The child's mother and father said they saw him around midnight Tuesday before they went on an errand. Iron County Sheriff Roger Medley says when they returned around 1:30 a.m., the door was open and the boy was missing.

 

OZARK FEDERAL CREDIT UNION HOSTS LUNCHEON The Ozark Federal Credit Union hosted a luncheon Thursday at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce.

I attended the luncheon and spoke with Ozark Federal Credit Union President Kirk Mondy about an award the Credit Union recently received.

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RAILROAD REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY Railroad repairs will cause the closure of a Stoddard County road for over 24 hours.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route 91 in Stoddard County will be closed from County Road 341 to County Road 351 while railroad company crews perform the repairs.

Work is scheduled to begin at 1 pm today and continue through 3 pm on Saturday.