Monday November 21, 2016

BURN BANS ARE STILL IN PLACE IN MULTIPLE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COMMUNITIES  

Burn bans are still in place for multiple communities in Southeast Missouri.

According to the authorities, a burn ban is in effect for all of Ripley County, due to potential high winds as well as extremely dry fuel conditions caused by drought.

The cities of Bloomfield, Bernie, Gideon, Puxico, and East Prairie also have burn bans in place until further notice.  There is a chance of rain Tuesday night and Wednesday across the area.

 

DONIPHAN WOMAN FACING THEFT CHARGE OUT OF RIPLEY COUNTY A Doniphan woman has been arrested on multiple felony warrants in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Jessica Daves was taken into custody Saturday night, on multiple felony warrants – possession of a controlled substance and theft.

Following the arrest, Daves was held in the Ripley County Jail.

 

POPLAR BLUFF LEAF PICK UP SCHEDULE TO BEGIN TODAY The leaf pick up schedule for the city of Poplar Bluff is set to begin today.

According to city officials, the vacuum will be in Ward 2 from today to December 2nd. It will move to other city wards in the following weeks.

Officials say that the Street Department has only one vacuum and it is over twenty years old and breaks down frequently, which might cause changes to the schedule.

For more information, contact the Street Department at 573-686-8646.

 

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS ANNOUNCE DAYS OFF FOR THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY Students in Poplar Bluff will be having a short school week for more than just the Thanksgiving holiday.

Poplar Bluff R-1 Superintendent Scott Dill tells us that in addition to having Thursday and Friday of this week off for Thanksgiving, classes will also be dismissed for the R-I Schools on Wednesday, November 23rd for a teacher collaboration day.

Dill says the regular class schedule is set to resume on Monday, November 28th.

 

MOTORISTS ENCOURAGED TO DRIVE SAFELY OVER THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY WEEKEND Many Missouri residents are getting ready to get on the road to see family over the Thanksgiving holiday, but officials are urging motorists to keep safety in mind.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, during the 2015 Thanksgiving holiday weekend, 13 people were killed and another 627 were injured in 1,817 traffic crashes.

During the holiday weekend, all available troopers will be assigned to Missouri’s roadways to enforce traffic laws, especially those related to impaired driving, driving over the speed limit, and seat belt/child restraint use. Troopers will also be assisting motorists as needed.

The Highway Patrol’s Emergency Assistance number is 1-800-525-5555, or (star)55 on a cellular phone. Motorists should use this emergency assistance number to report traffic crashes, crimes being committed, or other emergencies on Missouri’s highways.

 

CARUTHERSVILLE MAN ARRESTED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES Authorities in Pemiscot County have arrested a Caruthersville man on multiple drug related charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 22 year old Jeffrey Treat, was taken into custody Friday evening on a charge of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, Treat was taken to the Pemiscot County Jail.

 

POPLAR BLUFF SHO-ME BAND BOOSTER CLUB TO ORGANIZE ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR The Poplar Bluff Sho-Me Band booster club is organizing an Arts and Crafts Fair that will be held in early December.

The fair is scheduled for 9 am to 2 pm on Saturday, December 3rd at the Poplar Bluff Junior High School Gymnasium.

The Entry fee will be $1 and booth rentals are also available for $40. All proceeds will go toward the Poplar Bluff Sho-Me Band.

For more information, contact DeAnne Goforth at 573-776-8323.

 

 

Friday November 18, 2016

WAPPAPELLO WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON NUMEROUS WAYNE COUNTY WARRANTS  

A woman has been arrested in Wayne County on numerous warrants.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Mica Myrick, of Wappapello, was arrested Thursday night on five warrants out of Wayne County, including one for felony possession of a controlled substance.

Myrick is also facing charges of possession of less than 35 grams of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

 

TESTING SCHEDULE TO CHANGE AT MANY SOUTHEAST MISSOURI DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS The Missouri State Highway Patrol has announced that the testing schedule will change at many Southeast Missouri Driver Examination Stations.

According to Captain Jeffrey Vitale, the testing schedule will change at the Caruthersville, Dexter, Kennett, Marble Hill, and Portageville stations next month.

Beginning on December 1st, tests will be given in Dexter on Thursdays and the 4th Tuesday of each month, in Kennett on Wednesdays and the 3rd Tuesday of each month, and in Portageville on the 1st and 5th Tuesdays of each month.

Tests will also be given on Mondays in Caruthersville and on the 2nd Tuesday of each month in Marble Hill.

All other Troop E driver examination schedules remain unchanged.

 

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AUTO TOUR BEGINS NEXT WEEK AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE Next Friday will be the official opening of the 24th Annual Festival of Lights Auto Tour at Wappapello Lake.

The tour is hosted by The Wappapello Lake Area Association and will be located at the Redman Creek Campground from dusk to 9pm on Weekends from November 25th through December 19th.

The Festival will then be open nightly from December 20th to December 25th. For more information, contact the Wappapello Lake Management Office at 573-222-8562.

 

OFFICIALS IN NEW MADRID COUNTY ADVISE AGAINST BURNING Authorities in New Madrid County are advising area residents to not burn anything.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, the advisory is due to extreme dry conditions and high winds.

No timetable was given for how long the advisory would continue.

 

MAN ARRESTED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS FOR POSSESSION OF CRYSTAL METHAMPHETAMINE Authorities in Northeast Arkansas tell KWOC News that a man has been taken into custody after he was found in possession of meth.

According to Greene County Sheriff David Carter, a deputy arrested Jason Morgan Wednesday afternoon for possession of crystal methamphetamine.

Morgan reportedly had a probation and parole warrant as well.

 

ANOTHER AREA UTILITY COMPANY WARNING CUSTOMERS OF SCAM CALLS Following up on a story we brought to you yesterday, another area utility company is warning its customers to be on the lookout for scam callers.

The new warning is from Kennett City Light, Gas, and Water. The company says they have received notice that scammers are targeting CLGW customers.

A video of what the scam would sound like is available on the company’s Facebook page.

Earlier this week, Ozark Border Electric Cooperative in Poplar Bluff posted on Facebook that they have received scam reports from their customers as well.

Anyone in the Kennett area who receives one of these calls is asked to contact the CLGW office at 888-5366.

Thursday November 17, 2016

BURN BANS PUT IN PLACE IN MULTIPLE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COMMUNITIES  

Multiple communities in Southeast Missouri have decided to institute a ban on burning.

According to the Doniphan Fire Department, a 10 day burn ban went into effect for all of Ripley County on Wednesday due to potential high winds as well as extremely dry fuel conditions caused by drought.

The cities of Bernie, Puxico, and East Prairie also recently had burn bans go into effect until further notice.

 

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT

 

The Poplar Bluff R-1 Board of Education will be holding their regularly scheduled monthly meeting tonight in the Board of Education Room at the Administrative Building.

The meeting includes an open session beginning at 7 pm. Some of the discussion items on the tentative agenda include district test scores, next year’s school calendar, and nutrition and physical fitness.

The tentative agenda also includes a closed session scheduled for 6 pm for legal and personnel issues.

 

POPLAR BLUFF CHURCH AND DAYCARE HOSTING FOOD DRIVE THIS WEEK

 

New Covenant Fellowship Church and Agape Daycare are hosting a food drive this week to stock the food pantry for local families’ Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday meals.

Officials tell KWOC News that area residents can drop off food at the church from 1 to 6 pm today.

You can also make a drop off any day this week at the Church and Daycare office from 8 am to 5:30 pm.

 

ILLINOIS MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON COCAINE RELATED CHARGE

 

Authorities in Butler County have arrested an Illinois man on a felony cocaine related charge.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 40 year old Marshall Busby, of Bartlett, Illinois, was taken into custody Wednesday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – cocaine and a misdemeanor charge of possession of marijuana.

Busby also reportedly had a felony warrant from the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Following the arrest, Busby was held at the Butler County Jail.

 

OZARK BORDER WARNING CUSTOMERS OF SCAM CALLS

 

Ozark Border Electric Cooperative is warning its customers that they have been receiving reports of scam callers.

Customers are reportedly receiving calls from individuals impersonating Ozark Border, stating they have not paid their electric bill and attempting to collect payment for their unpaid bill over the phone.

Anybody who receives one of these calls should not provide the caller with any personal information and should contact Ozark Border at 573-785-4631.

 

PAVEMENT REPAIRS UNDERWAY FOR ROUTE 60 IN STODDARD COUNTY

 

Eastbound Route 60 in Stoddard County is being reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located between Route 51 and Route TT.

Weather permitting, work will continue through Friday, with the work zone being set-up overnight.

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

   

 

 

THREE ARRESTED IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY ON MULTIPLE CHARGES, INCLUDING ASSAULT ON A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER Authorities in Mississippi County arrested three Sikeston residents early Tuesday morning on multiple charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell us that 26 year old Traci Bova, 24 year old Courtney Mosley, and 21 year old Richard Johnson, were each arrested shortly after 2:30 am Tuesday morning.

The three are each facing charges of assault on a law enforcement officer, burglary, and felony fleeing.

  POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS ANNOUNCE DAYS OFF FOR THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY Students in Poplar Bluff will be having a short school week next week for more than just the Thanksgiving holiday.

Poplar Bluff R-1 Superintendent Scott Dill tells us that in addition to having Thursday and Friday of next week off for Thanksgiving, classes will also be dismissed for the R-I Schools on Wednesday, November 23rd for a teacher collaboration day.

Dill says the regular class schedule is set to resume on Monday, November 28th.

  WOMAN ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES A Farmington woman is facing multiple felony charges in connection to her arrest Tuesday night in Wayne County.

According to authorities, 22 year old Kimberly Black was taken into custody shortly before 8:30 pm on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and endangering the welfare of a child.

Black is also facing a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

  POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS PARTNER WITH LINDENWOOD UNIVERSITY TO BRING DOCTORAL PROGRAM TO THE COMMUNITY Some Poplar Bluff educators are being given the opportunity to earn the highest graduate degree attainable thanks to a partnership between Poplar Bluff Schools and Lindenwood University.

Officials say that the partnership is bringing the first doctoral program to the community. The initial cohort of students admitted includes teachers and administrators from Poplar Bluff, Leopold and Cooter. The tracks include educational administration and instructional leadership, along with a higher education option.

According to officials, while the two-year program is designed to serve a one-time need, the hope is for the collaboration to have long-term implications.

  HAYTI WOMAN FACING THEFT CHARGE OUT OF PEMISCOT COUNTY A Hayti woman has been arrested on a felony theft charge in Pemiscot County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 45 year old Melinda Novak was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon on a charge of theft – stealing a controlled substance, hydrocodone.

Following the arrest, Novak was held in the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Office.

 

 

DEXTER CHURCH HOSTING EVENT ON NOVEMBER 19TH A Dexter Church is holding an event this weekend.

Lighthouse Church will be hosting The Loop on Saturday from 1 to 3 pm at West Park in Dexter.

Church officials say there will be music, free food, and free drinks at the event. There will also be a guest speaker, Mike Jameson.

For more information, go to the Lighthouse Church website at www.lighthouseofdexter.org.

First doctoral program offered in Poplar Bluff

doctoral-slider

Poplar Bluff Schools—in partnership with Lindenwood University—is encouraging more local educators to earn the highest graduate degree attainable by bringing the first doctoral program to the community. In addition to Poplar Bluff R-I educators, the initial cohort of students admitted includes teachers and administrators from Three Rivers College, Leopold and ...read more

Source: Poplar Bluff Mules

Tuesday November 15, 2016

THREE ARRESTED ON METH CHARGES IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS  

Three women were recently taken into custody in Northeast Arkansas on meth charges.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that Lauren Simino was arrested on a charge of possession of methamphetamine or cocaine with purpose to deliver.

Carter says that two other women, Tamara Hergett and Ashley Galvan, were each arrested on a charge of possession of methamphetamine.

 

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR NON-COMPLIANT SEX OFFENDER

 

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are searching for a non-compliant sex offender.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, Adam Waltman provided a false address on his registration form and is wanted for failure to register as a sex offender.

Waltman may frequent the south Poplar Bluff area.

A picture of Waltman is available on the KWOC Facebook page, anyone who has information on his whereabouts is asked to contact their local law enforcement agency.

 

STATE OFFICIALS RELEASES AUDIT OF RIPLEY COUNTY

 

The Missouri State Auditor has released the results of an audit conducted on the government of Ripley County.

According to Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway, Ripley County received an overall performance rating of fair. The audit identifies areas for improvements in the county collector's office, and raises concerns about the county's use of public equipment to make improvements to personal property.

Galloway says the county does not keep an updated or complete inventory listing of property and equipment, and the report makes recommendations to improve management of finances in the prosecuting attorney's office.

The report also shows a lack of oversight and review over property tax collections, which decreases the likelihood that errors will be detected and correctly quickly.

The full report is available online at Auditor.MO.gov.

 

WOMAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ABUSE OF CORPSE CHARGE

 

A Paragould woman is facing three years in prison after pleading guilty to abuse of corpse.

According to Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington, the skeletal remains of Clarence Shanowat were found in the home of Gloria Tensley in July.

Tensley allegedly didn’t report the death so she could continue collecting his Social Security disability benefits

Tensley pled guilty to the charge on Monday and was sentenced to three years in prison.

 

WOMAN ARRESTED IN NEW MADIRD COUNTY ON FELONY TRAFFICKING CHARGE

 

A Charleston woman is facing a felony charge following her arrest Monday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 20 year old Shanaia Webster was taken into custody shortly before noon Monday in New Madrid County.

The Highway Patrol says Webster was arrested on a charge of felony trafficking.

 

ALMOST 100,000 DEER HARVESTED DURING OPENING WEEKEND OF FALL FIREARMS DEER SEASON

 

Almost 100,000 deer were harvested during the opening weekend of the fall firearms deer season.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, preliminary data shows that deer hunters in Missouri harvested 96,131 deer on November 12th and 13th. This is an increase of over two thousand deer compared to last year’s opening weekend total.

Of the deer harvested, over 55 thousand were antlered bucks, and over 31 thousand were does.

The November portion of fall firearms deer season will continue through November 22nd.

 

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

 

Route Z in Stoddard County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a culvert pipe under the roadway.

The section of Route Z to be closed is located from Route 153 to Route W.

Work is scheduled to take place today from 8 am to 3:30 pm.

Monday November 14, 2016

WOMAN ARRESTED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY ON POSSESSION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGE  

A Clarkton woman is facing a felony controlled substance charge following her arrest over the weekend.

According to authorities, 32 year old Cindy Hill was taken into custody Sunday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance.

Hill is also facing charges of unlawful use of paraphernalia and possession of marijuana – less than 35 grams. Following her arrest, Hill was transported to the Pemiscot County Jail on a 24 hour hold.

 

BLOOMFIELD MAN ARRESTED ON ASSAULT WARRANT IN STODDARD COUNTY

 

A Bloomfield man has been taken into custody on warrants for assault and domestic assault.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 34 year old Brian Dempsey was recently arrested on a warrant for assault 3rd degree and a warrant for domestic assault.

The Sheriff’s Department says that no bond has been set and Dempsey remained in jail as of this morning.

 

COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING TO BE HELD TUESDAY AT POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL

 

The annual Poplar Bluff Community Thanksgiving has been scheduled for this week.

According to Poplar Bluff Schools, the event, which is hosted by Chartwells, will be held on Tuesday from 5 to 7 pm at the Poplar Bluff High School.

Officials say that the public is invited to attend and enjoy the free feast and entertainment.

 

WAYNE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT EXPERIENCING PHONE PROBLEMS

 

The Wayne County Sheriff’s Department is reporting that they are currently experiencing phone problems.

According to a post on the Sheriff’s Department’s Facebook page, anyone who needs assistance is being asked to call 573-224-3090.

 

SENATH MAN FACING MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES

 

A Southeast Missouri man has been taken into custody on a felony meth charge.

Officials with the Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 33 year old Brian Markham, of Senath, was arrested Friday afternoon in Dunklin County.

Markham is facing felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

 

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON FELONY LARCENY WARRANT

 

Authorities in Wayne County have taken a Poplar Bluff woman into custody on multiple warrants.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 32 year old Jessica Morrill was arrested Sunday afternoon on a felony warrant out of Butler County for larceny.

Morrill reportedly also had a misdemeanor warrant for shoplifting out of Poplar Bluff.

Officials say Morrill was held in Wayne County following the arrest.

 

NEW DAY MINISTRIES IN POPLAR BLUFF TO HOST FEED AND SEED EVENT THIS WEEK

 

New Day Ministries will be hosting a feed and seed event this Thursday from 3 to 5 pm.

The event is first come, first serve, and packs will be limited to one per family. New Day Ministries is located at 703 Franklin Street in Poplar Bluff.

If you would like more information, contact Pastors Vernon and Nancy Wolverton at 573-718-4578.

 

 

Friday November 11, 2016

WOMAN ENTERS GUILTY PLEA ON 2ND DEGREE MURDER CHARGE  

A woman is set to be sentenced next month after pleading guilty on a murder charge.

According to authorities, Victoria Isaac, of Puxico, has pled guilty to a second degree murder charge in connection to the death of her husband, Chris Isaac, in 2013.

Victoria Isaac also pled guilty to a charge of armed criminal action.

 

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR NON COMPLIANT SEX OFFENDER

 

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are asking for the public’s help in locating a non compliant sex offender.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, Dallas Wayne Harris is wanted for failure to register as a sex offender.

Anyone who has information about Harris’s whereabouts is asked to contact their local law enforcement agency.

We have a picture of Harris available on the KWOC Facebook page.

 

HUNTERS REMINDED TO BE AWARE OF MISSOURI TELECHECK RULES

 

The firearms deer season is about to get underway and hunters are being reminded to stay aware of the Missouri Department of Conservation Telecheck rules.

According to New Madrid County Prosecuting Attorney, Andrew Lawson, there is a common misconception that you have 24 hours after the harvest to check your deer. This caused numerous hunters to get ticketed last year.

Lawson says hunters have until 10 pm on the day of harvest to check their deer. If you shoot a deer, but cannot find it before 10 pm, you must contact the local conservation agent and let them know.

More information is available online at mdc.mo.gov.

 

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WINTER WEATHER WORKSHOP HELD THURSDAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

 

The National Weather Service held a Winter Weather Workshop Thursday at the Kay Porter Theater in Poplar Bluff.

KWOC News was at the workshop and caught up with NWS Warning Coordination Meteorologist, Rick Shanklin.

RICK SHANKLIN:

 Thursday's conference was about several things, we talked about weather ready Nation, that's kind of an overall focus of the National Weather Service. How we're moving forward and that involves a lot of things like new technologies new ways of getting information out. We talked about our Network upgrade we're really excited about the new satellite that we have launching, hopefully the 19th of this month. That's when it's scheduled to launch. It’s called gozar. That will give us much more capability for any type of major weather event, whether it be snow, ice, tornadoes, and severe weather forecasting it's going to come into play in that. In the coming months you'll hear more about that as well. That's what we're looking at is a continuation of this above normal temperature pattern that we have been seeing. That certainly looks to be the case for the next month and in general we have that through the winter but we think it will kind of level out as we get into the heart of winter, and later in the winter to more normal temperatures and certainly more normal precipitation patterns. We are obviously in drought situations across our region. And we think that will gradually be alleviated as we get more robust systems developing. We're looking at one now here about a week and a half down the road we think could have some impacts on us. You know right now with the drought and all to a very important thing is fire danger. We need to be really cautious about that. I know there’s burn bans across some parts of the area already and that's really not going to improve until we have a significant rainfall and that's important but we will remind everybody to not let their guard down because we will have more active weather moving into our region whether it be severe weather or even in the coming weeks we could even see our first bout of wintry precipitation so stay informed and be ready and stay safe. We have those events that will come our way again.

 

TWO PERSONS OF INTEREST ARE BEING SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO VANDALISM AT A POPLAR BLUFF BUSINESS

 

Two persons of interest are being sought in connection a reported vandalism at a Poplar Bluff business.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, officers were notified of the vandalism on Monday.

Officials have provided KWOC News with pictures of the two persons of interest, which are currently available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who has information on the identities of the two people can contact Officer Woodruff at (573)785-5776.

 

WOMAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON WARRANT FOR DISTRIBUTION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

 

A woman is in custody this morning in Stoddard County on a distribution warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 24 year old Alexandra Burke, of Bragg City, was recently arrested on a warrant for distribution of a controlled substance.

Her bond was set at $75,000 cash and she remained in jail as of this morning.

The Sheriff’s Department says Burke also has charges out of Poplar Bluff but did not say what those charges were.

 

MULTIPLE EVENTS SCHEDULED FOR VETERANS DAY TODAY

 

There are multiple events scheduled for Veterans Day today in Southeast Missouri.

The annual Veterans Day Assembly will begin at 9 a.m. this morning at the E.T. Peters Gym at the Poplar Bluff Middle School. Veterans and their families may check in at the library beginning at 8:30, and will have special seating. Refreshments will be served following the program.

The Qulin Elementary and Middle School will also have their Veterans Day Assembly at 9:00 a.m. All veterans and community members are encouraged to attend the event at the Middle School Gymnasium.  The guest speaker will be retired Chief Warrant Officer Four Michael Gustin.

At 11 am, Oak Grove Elementary in Poplar Bluff will hold a school wide assembly, and veterans have been invited to come eat lunch with the students. Classrooms have also been collecting pennies this week to raise money for the Veterans Honor Tour.

A Ceremony will also be held in Poplar Bluff at 11 am at the Veterans’ Wall.

The Missouri State Veterans Cemetery at Bloomfield will be holding its annual Veterans Day Program beginning at 1 pm. The Keynote Speaker for this year will be Colonel Stephen Elder.

 

Thursday, November 10, 2016

   

 

ONE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY WRECK A Caruthersville man has been flown to a Memphis hospital following a single vehicle wreck in Pemiscot County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 20 year old Johnathan Casey was ejected from the vehicle he was driving after it struck a guard post and overturned near Caruthersville.

Casey was flown to Region One Medical Center in Memphis with serious injuries.

  5TH ANNUAL STEAK AND BURGER EVENT IS TONIGHT The Boys and Girls Club’s 5th Annual Steak and Burger event will be held tonight at the Black River Coliseum in Poplar Bluff.

Voice of the St. Louis Cardinals Mike Shannon will be speaking at the event, which will have doors opening at 5:30 pm.

Previous guest speakers have included Jim Edmonds, Mike Matheny, and Michael Wacha.

Tickets are on sale, with general admission tickets costing $75 and including dinner. All proceeds go to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Poplar Bluff.

For more information, contact Abbey Heuiser at 573-776-1690 or go online to bgcpd.org.

  DEXTER MAN FACING MULTIPLE COUNTS OF 3RD DEGREE ASSAULT A Dexter man is facing multiple counts of assault in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell us that 22 year old Donald Lee Morris Jr. was taken into custody on a warrant for endangering the welfare of a child and five counts of 3rd degree assault.

His bond was set at $2,500 and he has since bonded out.

  ADVANCE MAN ARRESTED ON DISTRIBUTION WARRANT Authorities in Stoddard County tell KWOC News they have arrested an Advance man on a distribution warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 52 year old Thomas Gregory Winder was recently arrested on a warrant for distribution of a controlled substance, drug paraphernalia, and driving while revoked.

Winder’s bond was set at $17,500 cash.

  FIREARM DEER SEASON BEGINS THIS WEEKEND Hunters across Southeast Missouri are getting ready for this weekend and the beginning of firearm deer season.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, the November firearms portion of deer season will run from November 12th to November 22nd.

Hunters can only take one antlered deer during the entire firearms season. Each county also limits the number of antlerless deer hunting permits you can fill during the season as well.

You can find more information online at mdc.mo.gov.

  POPLAR BLUFF STUDENT SELECTED TO NATIONAL SOCIETY OF HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARS A Poplar Bluff High School student has been selected to become a lifelong member of the National Society of High School Scholars.

High School junior John Page was chosen for his leadership, scholarship, and community commitment.

The society says they connect outstanding young scholars with the resources needed to develop their strengths and pursue their passions, from high school to college to a career.

Page, who is a member of the JROTC, has a GPA of 9.357 according to the counseling department.

Tuesday November 9, 2016

DONALD TRUMP ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATESDonald Trump is projected to be the next President of the United States.

According to CBS News, Trump is projected to win 289 Electoral votes compared to Hilary Clinton’s 218 with a few states still too close to call this morning.

Trump was also very successful in the Heartland, taking Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky.

In Butler County, Trump carried almost 80 percent of voters.

CBS News is also projecting the Republican Party to retain control of both the United States Senate and House of Representatives.

Incumbent Senator Roy Blunt was successful in holding off a challenge from Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander for the United States Senate seat from Missouri.

 

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI LOCAL RACE RESULTS PART 1 Here are the results for local races during yesterday’s general election.

Butler County Clerk Tonyi Deffendall tells KWOC News that over 17,000 voters participated Tuesday in Butler County.

In the two competitive Butler County races, for Eastern District County Commissioner, Republican Don ‘Butch’ Anderson defeated Democrat Van Rhodes by carrying around 70 percent of the vote.

For Western District County Commissioner, Republican Dennis ‘Boots’ Legrand carried around 85 percent of the vote in his win over Democrat Doug Harwell.

In Stoddard County, Republican Steve Jordan won the race for Stoddard County 1st District Commissioner over Democrat Curtis Clark. For Stoddard County Coroner, Democrat Kenny Pope defeated Republican Jason Williams.

 

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI LOCAL RACE RESULTS PART 2 Here are more results for local races during yesterday’s general election.

In Carter County, Republican Andy Steiger won the race for Commissioner of the County Commission for the Eastern District, Democrat Lisa Goodwin won a close race for Collector of Revenue, and the race for Assessor went to Republican Gary Rector.

In Ripley County, the election for Sheriff was won by Democrat Mike Barton. For Ripley County Associate County Commissioner for the Eastern District, Republican Gary Emmons won the seat, while the Western District seat was won by Republican Andy Towell.

In Wayne County, Democrat Dean Finch won the race for Sheriff. Republican Donna Eads took the race for Public Administrator. In the two elections for Wayne County Commissioners, Republican Chad Henson won the Western District seat and Republican James (Bill) Hovis won the Eastern District seat.

 

REPUBLICANS SWEEP MISSOURI STATE OFFICES Tuesday was a good day for Republicans in Missouri as they swept the high ranking Missouri State Government Offices during the general election.

Eric Greitens won the election for Missouri Governor over Chris Koster.

Mike Parson will step into the role of Lieutenant Governor with his win over Russ Carnahan. For Missouri Secretary of State, John (Jay) Ashcroft defeated Robin Smith.

In the race for Missouri State Treasurer, Eric Schmitt was selected over Judy Baker. And for Attorney General, Josh Hawley won over Teresa Hensley.

 

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI RACE RESULTS Here are the results for Southeast Missouri positions in the United States and Missouri state governments.

Republican Jason Smith was successful in his reelection bid for the United States House of Representatives seat for District eight in Missouri over Democratic challenger Dave Cowell.

For the Missouri State Senate, in District 25, incumbent Republican Doug Libla defeated Democrat Bill Burlison. In District 27, Republican incumbent Wayne Wallingford will hold his seat over Democrat Donnie Owens.

In District 153 of the Missouri House of Representatives, incumbent Republican Steve Cookson defeated Democrat Matt Michel.

 

FOUR OF FIVE MISSOURI CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS PASS Missouri voters approved four of five constitutional amendments that were voted on Tuesday.

Voters approved Constitutional amendments 1, 2, 4, and 6. The only amendment that was defeated was Amendment 3, which would have amended the Missouri Constitution to increase taxes on cigarettes each year through 2020.

Voters also voted down a proposition which would have increased taxes on cigarettes.

Voters approved amendments related to an extension of a one-tenth of one percent sales/use tax, limits on campaign contributions, a prohibition on certain new sales/use or other similar taxes, and photo voter ID.

 

 

Tuesday November 8, 2016

HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY IN BUTLER COUNTY  

Authorities in Butler County are investigating a Sunday night death as a homicide; however officials say that everything seems to point to the death as being a justifiable homicide.

On Monday, we spoke with Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs about the investigation.

MARK DOBBS:

 Sunday night at about 8:48 p.m. officers responded to 91 County Road 635 in reference to a shooting. Upon arrival it was learned that the victim Thomas Ray Sharon, age 41, of Broseley was fatally shot in a domestic altercation. Apparently Sharon had pulled a knife on his live-in girlfriend and the son had came in defense of the mother and shot Sharon at that time. At this time it's being treated as a homicide investigation however everything seems to point at this time to justifiable homicide, the investigation will continue to gather evidence and piece this thing together and see what happened exactly.

 

ADDITIONAL POLICE OFFICERS TO BE OUT CONTROLLING TRAFFIC AROUND POLLING PLACES

 

With Election Day being today, voters in Poplar Bluff may notice an increase of police officers near polling places.

Deputy Chief Don Trout with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News one reason for the presence of extra officers is traffic concerns.

DON TROUT:

 With today being Election Day, we're going to have a couple extra officers in place. One in particular at the Kay Porter Theatre at the middle school to assist with traffic in the mornings and afternoons. Once traffic’s handled at the school for the parents dropping off children and picking up children, that officer will just roam around to different polling places in the city and we will have one other that will be roaming polling precincts in the city to. The reason we are doing this is because of traffic congestion. Everyone's anticipating this will be a huge turnout for the election and we just want to make sure everybody has the chance to vote and can get to where they need to be.

 

LOCAL RACES AT STAKE DURING ELECTION DAY

 

Voters in Southeast Missouri will be choosing who will serve them at multiple levels of government today.

Voters will be deciding if Republican Jason Smith will be keeping his seat in the United States House of Representatives. Smith is facing a challenge from Democrat Dave Cowell.

For the Missouri State Senate, in District 25, incumbent Republican Doug Libla will be taking on Democrat Bill Burlison. In District 27, Republican incumbent Wayne Wallingford is facing Democrat Donnie Owens.

In District 153 of the Missouri House of Representatives, incumbent Republican Steve Cookson is being challenged by Democrat Matt Michel.

Other competitive local races include the race for Butler County Commissioner for the Eastern District between Republican Don “Butch” Anderson and Democrat Van Rhodes.

In Carter County, competitive races include, Commissioner of the County Commission for the Eastern District, Collector of Revenue, and Assessor. In Ripley County, Associate County Commissioner for Eastern and Western Districts, along with the Ripley County Sheriff.

In Stoddard County, 1st District Commissioner and Coroner. In Wayne County, County Commissioner for the Western District, Sheriff, and Public Administrator.

 

MISSOURI TO ELECT A NEW GOVERNOR TODAY

 

Missouri voters will decide multiple contested races today, with two of the most watched being the races for Governor and the United States Senate.

Democrat Chris Koster and Republican Eric Greitens are running to take over for Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, who is leaving office due to term limits.

For one of Missouri’s US Senate seats, incumbent Republican Roy Blunt is being challenged by current Missouri Secretary of State, Democrat Jason Kander.

Voters across the state in Missouri will also be voting for Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, State Treasurer, and Attorney General.

A United States Senate seat is also up for election in Arkansas today, as incumbent Republican John Boozman takes on Democrat Conner Eldridge.

 

MISSOURIANS TO VOTE ON FIVE CONSTITUTIONAL AMMENDMENTS TODAY

 

Five constitutional amendments and one proposition will be on the ballot today for Missourians.

Amendment one will continue a one percent sales/use tax for state parks and historic sites along with soil and water conservation.

Amendment two establishes limits on campaign contributions by individuals or entities to political parties, political committees, or committees to elect candidates for state or judicial office.

Amendment three will amend the Missouri Constitution to increase taxes on cigarettes each year through 2020, at which point this additional tax will total 60 cents per pack of 20. This amendment further provides that the funds generated by these taxes shall be deposited into a newly established Early Childhood Health and Education Trust Fund. Proposition A also concerns an increase in cigarette taxes.

Amendment four will prohibit a new state or local sales/use or other similar tax on any service or transaction. This amendment only applies to any service or transaction that was not subject to a sales/use or similar tax as of January 1, 2015.

Amendment six will amend the Missouri Constitution to state that voters may be required by law to verify their identity, citizenship, and residence by presenting identification that may include valid government-issued photo identification.

 

MAN FACING CHARGES OF ASSAULT AND DOMESTIC ASSAULT FOLLOWING INCIDENT SUNDAY NIGHT

 

A man is facing assault and domestic assault charges following an incident Sunday night.

KWOC News spoke with Lieutenant Darron Moore with the Poplar Bluff Police Department about the incident.

DARRON MOORE: 

On Sunday afternoon officers responded to the 400 block of Karen Drive in reference to domestic assault in progress. Upon arrival officer Jerry Cates observed a large crowd gathered and was told by a witness that Aaron Scowden had assaulted his wife. As Officer Cates approached the residence he could hear Scowden yelling inside. Officer Cates announced his presence and placed him under arrest. Scowden’s wife stated her husband became angry after she failed to answer him when he asked her what was for dinner. She reported during the incident that Scowden struck her in the face several times and had at one point placed a blanket over her head which made it hard for her to breathe. During the incident Scowden assaulted his wife's friend who was trying to record the assault. Scowden’s wife was transported by EMS with injuries to her face and bruising on her scalp. After receiving treatment she was later released. Aaron Scowden was lodged in the Butler County Justice Center on charges of a domestic assault 2nd degree and assault 3rd degree.

 

POPLAR BLUFF SOFTBALL PLAYER TO SIGN LETTER OF INTENT TODAY

 

A Poplar Bluff Senior Softball player will be signing a National Letter of Intent later today.

The signing ceremony for Grace King is scheduled to begin at 10:30 am this morning at the High School Cafeteria.

King will be signing a letter of intent to play softball at Three Rivers College.

Monday November 7, 2016

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGESA Poplar Bluff woman has been taken into custody in Butler County on multiple drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 38 year old Carla Mize, was arrested early Sunday morning on felony charges of distribution of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Mize is also facing a charge possession of a controlled substance for marijuana.

Following the arrest, Owens was taken to the Butler County Jail on a 24 hour hold.

 

5TH ANNUAL STEAK AND BURGER EVENT THIS THURSDAY WITH GUEST SPEAKER MIKE SHANNON The Boys and Girls Club’s 5th Annual Steak and Burger event is this Thursday.

Voice of the St. Louis Cardinals Mike Shannon will be speaking at the event on November 10th at the Black River Coliseum.

Previous guest speakers have included Jim Edmonds, Mike Matheny, and Michael Wacha.

Tickets are on sale with general admission tickets costing $75 and including dinner. All proceeds go to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Poplar Bluff.

For more information, contact Abbey Heuiser at 573-776-1690.

 

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SET FOR TODAY ON ROUTE 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY Northbound Route 67 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

This section of roadway to be affected is located at Route 160 and extending north 3 miles.

Work will be performed from 7 am to 5 pm.

 

BUTLER COUNTY TORNADO SIRENS TO BE TESTED TODAY Authorities in Butler County will be testing the tornado sirens today.

According to Butler County Emergency Management Director Robbie Myers, the sirens are scheduled to be tested today at noon.

Myers says that the tests will be conducted every month on the first Monday.

 

 

NEELYVILLE MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE A Neelyville man has been taken into custody on a felony drug charge.

According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, 45 year old John Storey was arrested Saturday night on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Storey is also facing a misdemeanor charge of possession of marijuana.

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

 

US 60 IN STODDARD COUNTY TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS Eastbound U.S. 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

Officials with the MoDot tell KWOC News that work will take place today through Friday, November 11th from 7 am to 3:30 pm daily.

The work zone will be located from One Mile Road to Route 25.

 

POPLAR BLUFF LIONS CLUB CHILI DAY TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY The Poplar Bluff Lions Club will be hosting their annual Chili Day on Tuesday.

The event will be held from 11 am to 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm to 7 pm at First United Methodist Church in Poplar Bluff.

Deliveries will also be available for orders of 10 or more by calling 573-609-4683.

The event helps the Poplar Bluff Lions club raise money to help provide glasses and eye care for the needy in the area.