Friday, December 1, 2017

RIVER RADIO LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE SET FOR TONIGHT

Parade lights will be shining bright in Downtown Poplar Bluff tonight for the 2017 River Radio Lighted Christmas Parade.

Line up will begin at 5:45 pm on Cheshire Boulevard at the Water Park. The parade route will run through downtown Poplar Bluff before looping back and ending at the Black River Coliseum.

The parade will officially begin at 6:30 pm.

WOMAN KILLED IN TWO VEHICLE WRECK IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A Fredericktown woman has died from injuries she received in a wreck Thursday in Madison County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred at around 7:15 am Thursday morning when a vehicle driven by a 17 year old male struck a vehicle in the passenger side.

One of the passengers in the second vehicle, 43 year old Kimberlie Kennon, was pronounced dead at the scene. A 16 year old passenger in the second vehicle suffered moderate injuries and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

No injuries were listed for the drivers of either vehicle.

EAST PRAIRIE WOMAN FACING METH AND POT CHARGES OUT OF MISSISSIPPI COUNTY

Authorities in Mississippi County have arrested an area woman on meth and marijuana charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 45 year old Melinda Riggins, of East Prairie, was taken into custody late Thursday night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Riggins is also reportedly facing misdemeanor charges of possession of marijuana and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

CURRENT RIVER STATE PARK TO BE CLOSED IN LATE DECEMBER FOR MANAGED DEER HUNTS

A Southeast Missouri state park will be closed later this month for deer hunting.

According to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, managed deer hunts will be held at Current River State Park in late December and early January.

The park will be closed during the two managed hunts, from December 23rd to the 27th and from December 29th through January 2nd. Only participants with managed hunt permits will be allowed in the park.

The Current River Trail from Echo Bluff State Park to Current River State Park will also be closed during the hunts.

BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED FOR ALMOST THREE WEEKS BEGINNING ON MONDAY

A Butler County road will be closed for almost three weeks beginning on Monday.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route B in Butler County will be closed between Country Road 629 and County Road 581 beginning at 6 am Monday morning for bridge repairs.

Officials say the road is scheduled to reopen at 6 am on Friday, December 22nd.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Eastbound Route 60 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane early next week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

MoDOT officials say the work zone will be located just east of Route 61.

Weather permitting, work will begin at 7:30 am on Monday, December 4th and will be closed overnight. The work zone will be taken down Tuesday, December 5th at around noon.

Thursday, November 30, 2017

PARENTS ARRESTED ON MURDER CHARGE AFTER FOUR MONTH OLD CHILD DIES FROM METHAMPHETAMINE TOXICITY

Two parents in Northeast Arkansas were taken into custody earlier this week on a murder charge in connection to death of a four month old child.

According to authorities, the child was taken to an area hospital in August where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

An autopsy was performed and the cause of death was revealed to be methamphetamine toxicity.

Both 32 year old Christina Richard and 30 year old Johnny Richard, Sr., of Blytheville, are facing a 2nd degree murder charge.

DRIVER FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL AFTER WRECK INVOLVING DEER

A driver was injured in a wreck involving a deer earlier this week in Northeast Arkansas.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that the crash occurred on Greene Road 721 Tuesday when the driver tried to avoid hitting a deer.

The driver was airlifted to a Memphis hospital. Their identity and current condition was not released.

Sheriff Carter says that deer accidents are at a record rate this year and is advising motorists to be careful.

ST. VINCENT DEPAUL FOOD PANTRY TO BE OPEN THIS WEEKEND FOR FOOD DISTRIBUTION

A Poplar Bluff food pantry has announced they will be distributing food every weekend for most of December.

The St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry has announced they will be open for food distribution from 10 am through 2 pm every Saturday through Christmas.

The distribution will be held at the pantry’s new location on South Broadway in Poplar Bluff.

POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL COLLECTING CANNED MEAT FOR DECEMBER FOOD DRIVE

Parents of Poplar Bluff Middle School students are being asked to send their kids to school with canned meat.

The middle school is collecting canned meat, including tuna, chicken, and Vienna sausages, as a part of the December Food Drive to be used in the Mule Pack food distribution program.

Donations are being accepted until December 15th and officials say that the class in each grade that collects the most cans will win an ice cream party to kick off the Christmas Break.

BRANSON A CAPELLA GROUP TO PERFORM AT TINNIN FINE ARTS CENTER NEXT WEEK

An a capella band featuring six brothers from Branson will be performing in Poplar Bluff next week.

The performance by SIX will be held at 8 pm on December 7th at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

The show is a part of the ongoing Patrons of the Arts season at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center. Tickets are $15 each and are available in limited amounts at the Three Rivers College Student Accounts Office.

For more information, visit trcc.edu/tinnin.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES IN RIPLEY COUNTY

A Poplar Bluff man was arrested Wednesday night in Ripley County on multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Carlis Gooch was taken into custody shortly after 9 pm on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Gooch also reportedly had a felony warrant and multiple misdemeanor warrants.

Wednesday, November 29, 2017

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION RELEASED ABOUT MURDER ARREST IN STODDARD COUNTY

Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, additional information has been released about an arrest on a murder warrant in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 35 year old Justen Lee Patterson was arrested on a warrant for murder 2nd degree.

The charge is in connection to the stabbing death of an 18 year old man in September of 2004.

According to Missouri Case Net, Patterson’s arraignment has been scheduled for Thursday morning.

MULTIPLE AREA COMMUNITIES ISSUE BURN BANS OR ADVISORIES

Dry conditions in Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas have caused multiple area communities to issue burn bans.

Ripley County in Southeast Missouri along with Clay and Greene Counties in Northeast Arkansas have issued bans. The city of Bloomfield Department of Public Safety is also asking area residents to not burn outside.

A field fire also broke out Tuesday near Paragould and spread to multiple homes.

MALDEN MAN IN CUSTODY ON CHILD MOLESTATION WARRANT

A Malden man was in custody this morning on a child molestation warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 24 year old McKinley Lane has been arrested on a warrant for 1st degree child molestation.

Officials say that no bond was set and Lane remained in jail as of this morning. His arraignment has been scheduled for Thursday morning at 9 am.

BERNIE CHILD SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A child was seriously injured Tuesday afternoon in a single vehicle wreck near Bernie.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Ofelia Solano, of Bernie, was driving on Missouri Highway 25, when her vehicle ran off the side of the road and overturned.

Solano received moderate injuries in the wreck, while a nine year old child in the vehicle suffered serious injuries. Both were taken by ambulance to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

TRAFFIC STOP LEADS TO ARREST FOR CRYSTAL METHAMPHETAMINE

A Monday night traffic stop resulted in a crystal methamphetamine arrest in Northeast Arkansas.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that Adam McDaniel was taken into custody after a K-9 officer alerted positive during the stop and 14.2 grams of crystal methamphetamine was located in the vehicle.

McDaniel was arrested for possession of crystal methamphetamine with purpose to deliver.

DATE SET FOR PUBLIC MEETING AT JAY NIXON STATE PARK

A date has been set for an upcoming public meeting about the future of Jay Nixon State Park in Reynolds and Iron counties.

The meeting has been scheduled for 6 to 8 pm on Thursday December 7th at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park in Lesterville.

Representatives from Missouri State Parks will be present at the meeting to provide information about various aspects of the property and to receive input from the public about its future.

Missouri State Parks has also extended the public comment period on the future of the park property through January 5th.

Beginning December 4th, people will be able to submit comments about the park through an online survey they can accessed on the Missouri State Parks website at MoStateParks.com.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED TODAY

Route 62 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located between County Roads 335 and 331.

Work is scheduled to take place today 7 am to 3:30 pm.

Tuesday, November 28, 2017

BLOOMFIELD RESIDENT ARRESTED ON MURDER WARRANT

A Bloomfield resident has been taken into custody in Stoddard County on a Murder warrant.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 35 year old Justen Lee Patterson was recently arrested on a warrant for murder 2nd degree.

Few details about the arrest have been released, however authorities say that no bond has been set and Patterson remained in jail as of this morning.

ONE IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A Northeast Arkansas man is facing a murder charge in connection to a shooting death over the weekend.

According to authorities, 33 year old Steven Goodman, of Marmaduke, has been charged with 1st degree murder in the death of 28 year old Kenneth Houseman, of Leachville.

The incident reportedly occurred Sunday morning in Marmaduke.

KENNETT POLICE INVESTIGATING THEFTS FROM AUTO DEALERSHIP

Authorities in Kennett are investigating a theft from an area auto dealership.

According to the Kennett Police Department, at around 4 am Sunday morning, a silver or light gray late model Ford Pickup truck, occupied by two unidentified suspects, entered the Glen Sain dealership parking lot in Kennett and took the wheels and tires off of a new truck and left with them.

Officials say that thefts have also been recently reported from dealerships in Malden and Paragould.

A picture of the suspect’s vehicle has been posted on the Kennett Police Department Facebook page.

Anyone who has information on the identity of the suspects is being asked to contact Lieutenant John Higgins at the Kennett Police Department at 573-888-4622.

15 KILLED OVER THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY PERIOD IN MISSOURI

15 people died in traffic crashes in Missouri during the Thanksgiving holiday counting period.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, in addition to the 15 who died, 116 people were injured in 400 crashes statewide.

Two of the fatalities were located in Southeast Missouri, as 22 year old Derick Samons and 16 year old Brandon Samons, both of Doniphan, were passengers in a car that ran off Route K in Ripley County, struck a mailbox, and overturned several times on Thanksgiving day.

The holiday counting period ran from 6 pm on Wednesday, November 22nd through 11:59 pm on Sunday, November 26th.

BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Route PP in Butler County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews seal the pavement.

According to MoDOT, the section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route TT to County Road 441.

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

BRIDGE REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY ON US ROUTE 60 IN STODDARD AND NEW MADRID COUNTIES

US Route 60 in New Madrid and Stoddard Counties will be reduced to one lane today and tomorrow so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge repairs.

According to officials work is scheduled to take place from 7 am to 3:30 pm both days.

The work zone will be located between Route 114 and County Road 589.

Monday November 27, 2017

RIVER RADIO LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE SET FOR THIS FRIDAY  

Parade lights will be shining bright in Downtown Poplar Bluff this Friday for the 2017 River Radio Lighted Christmas Parade.

Lineup will begin at 5:45 pm on Friday on Cheshire Boulevard at the Water Park. The parade route will run through downtown Poplar Bluff before looping back and ending at the Black River Coliseum.

The parade will begin at 6:30 pm.

POPLAR BLUFF LEAF PICK UP SCHEDULE TO CONTINUE TODAY

The leaf pick up schedule for the city of Poplar Bluff is set to continue today.

According to city officials, the leaf pick up will be in Ward 2 from today to December 8th. It will move to other city wards in the following weeks.

Leaves may also be disposed of at the landfill located on the east side of the city. To reach the landfill, take Bartlett Street to “F” Street and go under the railroad crossing. Follow the graveled portion of “F” Street around the curve and the disposal is located on the left side of the road. There are signs marking the location.

The site is open for leaf disposal from 8 am to 3:30 pm Monday through Friday.

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

TREE TRIMMING CREWS TO BE IN STODDARD COUNTY TODAY

Route J in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can trim trees along the roadway.

The work zone will be located from Route AA to Route F.

The road will be reduced today from 8 am to 4:30 pm.

KENNETT MAN ARRESTED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGE

Authorities in Dunklin County have taken a Kennett man into custody on a felony charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old Jamison Taylor was arrested early Sunday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, Taylor was held at the Dunklin County Jail.

INTERSTATE REPAIR PROJECT SET TO BEGIN TODAY

Southbound I-55 in New Madrid County will be reduced with a 16-foot width restriction today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

Officials say the section of roadway involved in the project is located between mile markers 57 and 54.

Weather permitting, work will take place today and from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm daily.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE MUSIC DEPARTMENT TO PUT ON FESTIVE PERFORMANCE TUESDAY NIGHT

The Three Rivers College Music Department will be continuing its season tomorrow night with a festive-themed performance.

‘Holiday Dreaming’ will begin at 7 pm Tuesday night at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

The free performance will feature the Three Rivers Symphonic Band, the Swingsations, and the Three Rivers College Choir.

Cindy White, Professor of Music at Three Rivers College says that there will be some really talented young musicians at the event that will be performing a great blend of festive pieces.

NAYLOR CHURCH TO HOST MOVIE NIGHT THIS FRIDAY

A church in Naylor will be hosting a movie night this Friday.

The Fourth Wiseman will be shown on Friday at the Naylor First Christian Church Fellowship Hall beginning at 6 pm.

The event is free to the community and all ages are welcome. Officials say that refreshments will be served as well.

Wednesday, November 22, 2017

CAPITOL CHRISTMAS TREE TO BE IN POPLAR BLUFF TODAY

The Capitol Christmas Tree is making its journey from Montana to Washington DC and will be making a stop today in Poplar Bluff.

The Capitol Christmas Tree is put on display every year on the West Front Lawn of the United States Capitol.

Today the tree will be on display at the Poplar Bluff Menards parking lot from 11 am to 12:30 pm.

The event is free and open to the public.

We will also be at the Menards parking lot, broadcasting live today from 10 am to 12:30 pm.

DEADLINE APPROACHING TO REGISTER FOR RIVER RADIO LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE

The deadline is coming up to register your float for the 2017 River Radio Lighted Christmas Parade.

The parade will begin at 6:30 pm on Friday, December 1st. Line up will begin at 5:45 pm on Cheshire Boulevard at the Water Park.

You can find an entry form with rules and regulations for the parade online at our website or by contacting Carrie at River Radio by calling 573-785-0881.

The deadline for submissions is Friday, November 24th.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an area man on a controlled substance warrant.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 30 year old Robert Cole Smith was recently arrested on a warrant for delivery of a controlled substance.

Smith’s bond was set at $10,000 cash and he remained in jail as of this morning.

NEW SCAM REPORTED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A new scam is making the rounds in Northeast Arkansas and a local sheriff wants to make sure that you are prepared for it.

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells KWOC News that the caller states that the recipient has missed jury duty and must pay a fine.

The caller will then give a number to be reached back at as well.

Miller says that so far the main targets of the scam have been teachers, but anyone can be victimized. If you receive a call like this, contact your local authorities.

POPLAR BLUFF KINDERGARTEN STUDENTS RAISE OVER $25,000 FOR ACTIVITY FUND

Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Students have raised over $25,000 as a part of an annual fundraiser.

According to the Poplar Bluff School District, due to the children’s effort as a part of the annual Stonie's Sausage fundraiser Kindergarten Center Principal Carol Brotman kept her word and kissed a pig. Video of the smooch was posted on the Kindergarten Center’s facebook page.

Teacher Susie Rahlmann received a whipped cream pie in the face for having the top selling class and the top 20 selling children earned an ice cream and karaoke party.

All proceeds from the event went toward the school's activity fund.

THANKSGIVING COOKING SAFETY TIPS

Thanksgiving is almost here, and the American Red Cross is reminding you to stay safe while you prepare the holiday dinner.

The Red Cross advises that cooks should avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while preparing the holiday meal. You should also never leave the stove unattended – if the cook has to leave the kitchen even for a short time, they should turn off the stove.

Remember to clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup and keep anything that can catch fire, including pot holders, oven mitts, and food packaging, away from the stove, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat.

Children and pets also bring an increased chance of accidents and should be kept away from the cooking area.

Tuesday November 21, 2017

FIRE STRIKES RESIDENCE IN POPLAR BLUFF A fire broke out a residence in Poplar Bluff on Monday.

According to authorities, the fire occurred at a home on Spring and Mill Street and was put out by one of the residents.

A woman who lived in the residence was treated for smoke inhalation.

KENNETT POLICE SEARCHING FOR SHOOTING SUSPECT

Kennett police are attempting to locate a suspect in connection to a weekend shooting.

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that at around 8 pm on Sunday, officers were dispatched to the intersection of Washington and Walnut Street in reference to a subject who had reportedly been shot.

At the scene, officers located a victim who appeared to have sustained a wound to the chest area. The victim has been flown to a Memphis hospital for treatment.

The incident is still under investigation; however police are actively looking for a suspect identified as 39 year old Johnny Lee Phillips.

Phillips is described as an African American male, approximately 5 feet, 6 inches tall, and weighing around 190 pounds. Police say that Phillips should be considered armed and dangerous.

Anyone who has information about his whereabouts should contact your local law enforcement agency.

PERSONS OF INTEREST BEING SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO HOMICIDE IN CHARLESTON

Multiple persons of interest are being sought by Charleston authorities in connection to a homicide.

22-year-old Cournelyous Stevenson, of Cape Girardeau, was pronounced dead after being found in a wrecked vehicle in Charleston on Friday. Officers had received a report of shots being fired and a vehicle crash before finding Stevenson.

Charleston Police are searching for multiple persons of interest in connection to the homicide, including Lamichael Williams, Jumonta Moore, and Deon Willis.

Anyone who has information on their whereabouts is asked to contact 573-683-3737.

APPROXIMATELY 900 MEALS SERVED DURING COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING DINNER

Approximately 900 meals were served last week during the Poplar Bluff Community Thanksgiving Dinner at the High School.

Food Services Director Dixie Harden says that over 250 pounds of turkey was purchased for the 8^th annual event, which was held last Thursday.

The event was sponsored by Chartwells School Dining Services in partnership with the Student Council and the JROTC.

PIGGOTT MAN KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

A Piggott man has died following a two vehicle wreck on Monday.

Officials with the Arkansas State Police tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly before 12:30 pm yesterday on Highway 49 in Greene County.

88 year old Harold Hanna’s vehicle reportedly struck another vehicle on the front driver’s side. Hanna’s vehicle then ran off the side of the road and flipped multiple times.

Officials say that Hanna died from injuries he received in the wreck.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES

Authorities in Butler County have arrested a Poplar Bluff woman on multiple drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 56 year old Sharon Foster was taken into custody Monday afternoon on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute for methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance for hydrocodone.

Foster is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following her arrest, Foster was held at the Butler County Jail.

HEAD ON COLLISION LEAVES THREE INJURED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Three people were injured, one seriously, in a head on collision Monday evening in New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle driven by 35 year old Christy Gilmore, of New Madrid, reportedly crossed the center line of Route H, near Canalou, and struck another vehicle head on.

Gilmore was seriously injured in the wreck and flown to a St. Louis hospital. Two people in the second vehicle were also injured and transported to an area hospital.

MINOR EARTHQUAKE SHAKES SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Did you feel the earthquake last night in Southeast Missouri?

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.1 earthquake was recorded at around 8:36 pm Monday night. The quake was located around 23 miles south of Sikeston and just over 30 miles Northeast of Kennett.

The earthquake had a depth of approximately nine miles.

Monday November 20, 2017

ONE KILLED, THREE INJURED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY WRECK A Silva woman has died in connection to a wreck Friday evening in Cape Girardeau County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred at around 6:15 pm Friday on Highway 72 near Cape Girardeau.

A Chevrolet Cobalt reportedly crossed the center the line and was struck by another vehicle.

A passenger in the Cobalt, 22 year old Anna Kisner was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver and two other passengers were injured and taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

The driver of the second vehicle received moderate injuries and was also taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

MOTORISTS ENCOURAGED TO DRIVE SAFELY OVER THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Many Missouri residents are getting ready to get on the road to see their family over the Thanksgiving holiday, but officials are urging motorists to keep safety in mind.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, during the 2016 Thanksgiving holiday weekend, 14 people were killed and another 553 were injured in over 1,400 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.

POPLAR BLUFF CHURCH TO HOST VETERANS DEDICATION SERVICE THIS WEEKEND

A Poplar Bluff Church will be hosting a Veteran’s Dedication Service this weekend.

The First General Baptist Church of Poplar Bluff will be having their 3^rd Annual Veteran's Dedication Service on November 26^th at 10:30 am.

In addition to service members they are also including public servants such as Law Enforcement, Firefighters, 1st Responders, EMT, and Paramedics.

First General Baptist Church is located at 1801 North Main Street in Poplar Bluff. For more information, call 573-429-0669.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES

Authorities in Butler County have taken a Poplar Bluff man into custody on drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 51 year old Gregory Leach was arrested Saturday evening for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, Leach was taken to the Butler County Jail.

ROAD WORK SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN BUTLER COUNTY

Southbound Route 67 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

Officials say that the section of roadway to be reduced is located from County Road 272 to County Road 276.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Wednesday from 8 am to 4 pm, daily.

SCHEDULE RELEASED FOR SEMO BORDER CHALLENGE IN POPLAR BLUFF

The Poplar Bluff Athletic Department has released the schedule for the upcoming girls basketball SEMO Border Challenge.

The tournament, hosted by Poplar Bluff, will be held from Thursday, December 7^th to Saturday, December 9^th. The Lady Mules will be taking on Oxford and Pine Grove High Schools from Mississippi and Earle High School from Arkansas.

Twin Rivers and Dexter High Schools will also be participating in the tournament.

Poplar Bluff Athletic Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that the daily tournament admission will be $5.

BEEKEEPING CLASS SET FOR EARLY NEXT MONTH

Anyone who wants to find out more information about beekeeping will get the opportunity early next month in Reynolds County.

The Reynolds County Extension Office will be hosting a level 3 Journeyman Beekeeper Course on Saturday, December 2^nd beginning at 8 am. Officials say the course is being offered in conjunction with the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundations Master Beekeeper Course.

The cost is $75 per person.

For more information, or to register for the class, call the Reynolds County Extension Office at 573-648-1035.

Friday, November 17, 2017

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE TRYING TO IDENTIFY MAN IN CONNECTION TO LEAVING THE SCENE OF AN ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

Police in Poplar Bluff are asking for the public’s help in identifying a man in connection to an ongoing investigation.

On Thursday the Poplar Bluff Police Department released a picture of the man who is being sought in regards to a leaving the scene accident investigation.

Few details about the investigation have been made available, however police have also released a picture of a vehicle the man was operating during the incident.

We have pictures of the man and the vehicle available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone with information regarding the man’s identity is asked to call 573-785-5776

PORTAGEVILLE MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

A Portageville man has been taken into custody in Stoddard County on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 30 year old Tommy Hood was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

Hood’s bond set at $7,500 cash and officials say he has since bonded out.

PARAGOULD MAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING CHASE INVOLVING OFFICERS IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Authorities in Northeast Arkansas arrested an area man on Thursday following a pursuit.

According to authorities, a Paragould resident named Rodney Trammell had fled from a deputy that attempted to conduct a stop in Greene County. Trammell’s vehicle eventually went into a field where he struck a deputy’s vehicle. He was then taken into custody.

Trammell is facing numerous charges including aggravated assault on law enforcement, reckless driving, and fleeing.

TWO BEING SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO ROBBERY AND ASSAULT

Two men are being sought in connection to a robbery and assault at a Sikeston business.

Officials with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tell KWOC News that on November 12th officers met with a Sonic employee who had a laceration to their facial area and the back of their head.

The victim reported they had closed the store and was walking towards the back of the business when they observed two males wearing all black clothing walk towards them.

The victim said one of the suspects struck her in the face and the two suspects fled on foot with the Sonic deposit bag with an undermined amount of cash.

Police are searching for two Sikeston residents in connection to the case, 20 year old Jamal Brooks and 18 year old De’Drevion Savage.

They are believed to be in a silver or grey 2009 Hyundai with a Missouri License plate of WC7-C1(one)V.

Both Savage and Brooks have arrest warrants through Scott County Circuit Court for Assault 1st and Robbery 1st with a bond of $50,000.

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS TO BE OUT ALL NEXT WEEK FOR THANKSGIVING

Poplar Bluff students will be getting out of class for a full week for Thanksgiving.

Poplar Bluff R-1 Superintendent Scott Dill tells KWOC News that classes will be dismissed for the Poplar Bluff R-I school district from November 20th through the 24th for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Classes will also not be in session the following Monday, November 27th, because of a teacher collaboration day.

Dill says the regular class schedule will resume on Tuesday, November 28th.

POPLAR BLUFF CHURCH TO HOST FISH FRY THIS WEEK

A Poplar Bluff church will be hosting its annual fish fry today.

Brown Chapel AME Church’s Annual Fish Fry will be held from noon to 5 pm. The menu will include catfish, buffalo, spaghetti, cole slaw, and more.

The church is located at 1010 Benton Street in Poplar Bluff. For more information, call 573-785-4801.

Thursday November 16, 2017

MAN ARRESTED AFTER ATTEMPTING TO FLEE FROM POLICE DURING TRAFFIC STOP  

A man was arrested earlier this week in Kennett after he allegedly fled from police.

According to the Kennett Police Department, the incident occurred during a traffic stop on Tuesday. The man, who was identified as Marcus Hill, was a passenger in the vehicle and fled the scene. He was later arrested on a Dunklin County warrant.

Officers also arrested Emily Westmoreland for hindering prosecution of a felony.

FLU CLINIC SCHEDULED FOR TODAY AT BUTLER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

A flu clinic is scheduled for today in Poplar Bluff.

The clinic is scheduled for 8:30 am to 6 pm at the Butler County Health Department.

Officials with the Health Department say that everyone six months old and older should get a flu shot to be prepared for the peak period of flu season, which runs from December through February.

You can find more information at the Butler County Health Department’s website, ButlerCountyHealth.org.

CHEERLEADER AND FOOTBALL PLAYER NAMED POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETES OF THE MONTH

A cheerleader and football player have both been named as October Athletes of the Month at Poplar Bluff High School.

The Mules Booster Club selected Bailey Edmundson and Preston Burroughs for the honor.

Edmundson helped lead the Competition Cheerleading Team to win second in states the past two years, during which the Universal Cheerleaders Association named her an All-American. This year she also received All-State recognition at the competition of the Missouri Cheerleading Coaches Association.

Preston was an offensive lineman for the Mules Football team during its undefeated regular season, helping the team average 34.6 points per game. He was a starter for three years and was named to the All-Conference team.

MISSOURI MOTORISTS REMINDED TO MOVE OVER FOR RESPONDERS

Motorists in Missouri are being reminded to move over for any vehicle with flashing lights on the highway.

This week is the second annual national Traffic Incident Response Awareness Week.

Missouri’s Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes when approaching MoDOT vehicles, law enforcement vehicles, and any other emergency vehicle with lights flashing. If drivers can’t change lanes safely, they must slow down as they pass the emergency vehicles.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, every year in the US hundreds of emergency responders representing fire, law enforcement, emergency medical services, towing and transportation agencies are struck and either injured or killed while responding.

PUXICO RESIDENT ARRESTED FOR STATUTORY SODOMY

A Puxico man has been arrested in Stoddard County on a sodomy related charge.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 43 year old James Darrin Wollard was recently arrested on three counts of statutory sodomy.

Wollard’s bond was set at $25,000 cash, and officials say he has bonded out.

IS YOUR VEHICLE READY FOR WINTER WEATHER

With temperatures dropping in Missouri, are you prepared in case winter weather strikes?

Yesterday was Winter Weather Awareness day and the Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging you will take steps to help make sure your family stays safe this winter.

The Highway Patrol suggests keeping your fuel tank at least half full. Having an ice scraper, tire chains, battery booster cables, blankets, extra coats, gloves, water, non-perishable food, flashlight, and a bag of sand or cat litter in your trunk can also help when trouble strikes.

Another important step is creating a family emergency plan and an emergency kit for your home with bottled water and food that can be prepared without cooking in case of a power outage.

Kits should include bottled water, canned and dry foods, a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a manual can opener and a first-aid kit.

CARUTHERSVILLE MAN ARRESTED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGE

Authorities in Pemiscot County have taken a Caruthersville man into custody on a felony charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Otis Black was arrested Wednesday evening on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance.

Following the arrest, Black was held at the Pemiscot County Jail.

Wednesday, November 15, 2017

KENNETT TEENAGER PLEADS GUILTY TO RAPING TWO GIRLS

A Kennett teenager was sentenced earlier this week after pleading guilty to the rape of two girls in Northeast Arkansas.

Scott Ellington, Prosecuting Attorney for the 2nd Judicial District of Arkansas tells KWOC news that 18 year old Carlo Love entered the plea Monday in Mississippi County Circuit Court.

Ellington says the incident occurred in November of last year and involved two children under the age of 12.

Love was sentenced to twenty years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections, which will be followed by a ten-year suspended imposition of sentence.

APPROXIMATELY 200 GALLONS OF GAS SPILLED IN PUXICO

Around 200 gallons of gas was spilled Tuesday in Puxico.

According to authorities, the spill occurred when a hose came loose on a gas truck that was delivering fuel.

Some of the fuel reportedly leaked into the sewer system and a cleanup operation was started.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING DINNER SCHEDULED FOR TOMORROW NIGHT

The 8th annual Poplar Bluff Community Thanksgiving Dinner by Chartwells is scheduled for this week.

The dinner will take place from 5 to 7 pm Thursday night at Poplar Bluff High School.

School officials say that the meal is free of charge and open to the public.

Entertainment will be provided by the PBHS Jazz Band and Choir.

Donations of gloves, hats and scarves will be accepted for children in need, along with monetary donations for the purchase of Haven House Christmas gifts.

POPLAR BLUFF TEACHER GIVEN UNSUNG HERO AWARD

A Poplar Bluff teacher was awarded as an unsung hero last week during the Missouri School Teachers Association Assembly of Delegates in Columbia.

Middle School teacher Karmen Carson received the 2017 Unsung Heroes award during the event.

Carson, an educator of nearly 20 years, has served as president of the Poplar Bluff chapter of MSTA since 2009. The MSTA is a state association made up of more than 47,000 educators.

According to the award letter, the award acknowledges about 30 members who made a "substantive yet unrecognized contribution" to the organization's mission, which is to advocate for and empower public educators so they can teach.

BUTLER COUNTY HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN MADE AVAILABLE ONLINE

The 2017 Butler County Hazard Mitigation plan is available online.

The plan is required in order for a community to be eligible to receive federal mitigation grant funding.

This is an update to the Butler County Hazard Mitigation Plan that was approved in 2012. Both were prepared by the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission.

A link to the plan was posted yesterday by the City of Poplar Bluff City Hall Facebook page. According to the post, the plan will not be voted on until December 4th.

AREA BUSINESS COLLECTING SOCKS FOR TROOPS

An area business is accepting sock donations for our troops.

You can donate socks for active duty military soldiers and local veterans at the Poplar Bluff Shoe Sensation for their Socks for Troops drive.

You can also purchase military-approved socks at Shoe Sensation, where all socks purchased to donate will be 20 percent off.

The Socks for Troops drive will continue through December 24th.

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

BLOOMFIELD MAN FOUND DEAD IN CURRENT RIVER

The body of a Bloomfield man was pulled from an area river over the weekend.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 40 year old Donald Kimbrel’s body was recovered from Current River on Saturday, around two miles north of Doniphan.

Kimbrell was pronounced dead at the scene by Ripley County Coroner Mike Jackson. The Highway Patrol listed the incident as a drowning.

ONE FOUND DEAD FOLLOWING FIRE IN RIPLEY COUNTY

A woman was found dead following a fire last week at a mobile home in Ripley County.

According to authorities, 56 year old Sheila Richmond died from smoke inhalation.

The fire occurred Friday at a mobile home located near Doniphan on Highway 160 and an investigation has been started.

GREENVILLE WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN TWO VEHICLE WRECK

An area woman was taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital Monday afternoon after she was seriously injured in a two vehicle wreck.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 23 year old Jessica Pruett, of Greenville, struck the back of a pickup truck on Missouri Highway 34 near Piedmont.

Pruett was reportedly not wearing a seat belt at the time and suffered serious injuries. No injuries were listed for the driver of the pickup truck.

MAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON CHILD MOLESTATION WARRANT

A Dexter man has been arrested in Stoddard County on a child molestation warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 28 year old Ethan Aaron Cole was recently taken into custody on a warrant for 1st degree child molestation and sodomy.

Cole’s bond was set at $20,000 cash and his arraignment has been scheduled for Thursday morning.

TWO ARRESTED FOR CRYSTAL METHAMPHETAMINE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Two people were taken into custody over the weekend in Northeast Arkansas for crystal methamphetamine.

Greene County Sheriff David Carter tells KWOC News that Kager Nole and Mallory Hale were both arrested after deputies discovered over an ounce of crystal methamphetamine and other drugs on their persons and in a vehicle.

Both Nole and Hale are facing charges including possession of crystal methamphetamine with purpose to deliver and possession of drug paraphernalia.

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT TO HOST PUBLIC FORUM

A Poplar Bluff school official will be having a public forum next month.

Poplar Bluff R-I Superintendent Scott Dill will host the public forum for district patrons at 5:30 pm on Tuesday, December 12th, in the Poplar Bluff Municipal Library Theater.

School officials say that Dill will provide an update about the school system, which will then be followed by a Q&A.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOLS STUDENTS NAMED TO ALL DISTRICT BAND

Several Poplar Bluff High School students were chosen for the Southeast Missouri All-District Band during auditions held last week.

Zac Batton, Michael Ward, Cody Daughertee, and Joseph Pickard will all perform as members of the jazz band on November 18th in Cape Girardeau.

Daughertee was also chosen for the concert band, along with Destiny Ackerman and Breeanna Helton. The concert band will perform on February 10th at Three Rivers College.

Monday November 13, 2017

POSSIBLE OUTBREAK OF HEPATITIS A REPORTED IN BUTLER COUNTYHealth officials in Butler County say they have seen an increase in a contagious virus and are reminding area residents to take steps to protect themselves.

KWOC News spoke with Whitney Preslar, Emergency Response Planner with the Butler County Health Department, who tells us that drug use has been a common factor.

WHITNEY PRESLAR:

The Butler County Health Department has seen a recent increase in the number of reported cases of Hepatitis A in Butler County, which may indicate an outbreak. We are investigating and have determined that reported drug use is a common factor. We are working with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to facilitate a clinic to immunize those individuals who are at risk. The Hepatitis A virus is transmitted primarily by the fecal-oral route; that is when an uninfected person ingests food or water that has been contaminated with the feces of an infected person. The virus has a 2-6 week incubation period, meaning it can take up to 2-6 weeks to start showing signs and symptoms after being exposed. Based on our findings, we are approaching the end of the first incubation period. There will be a second incubation period for those who may have been exposed by the reported cases. A person can only spread the disease if they are symptomatic; they are not contagious during the whole incubation period. In light of recent findings, we would like to remind the community that proper hand washing decreases the susceptibility of spreading disease, especially with the holiday season approaching and food preparation at its highest.

Preslar says that if anyone has any questions, to contact the Butler County Health Department at 573-785-8478.

DEXTER WOMAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO HIT AND RUN WRECK Authorities have arrested a Stoddard County woman in connection to an alleged hit and run wreck. 27 year old Courtney Stott, of Dexter turned herself in on Friday morning and was later released after posting a $20,000 bond.

According to the Dexter Police Department, the arrest stems from an incident that happened on September 30, when 37 year old Jason Summers was riding a bicycle near Bloomfield and was hit by a vehicle that left the scene.

Summers is expected to make a full recovery.

POPLAR BLUFF CHURCH TO HOST FISH FRY THIS WEEK A Poplar Bluff church will be hosting its annual fish fry this week.

Brown Chapel AME Church’s Annual Fish Fry will be held from noon to 5 pm on Friday, November 17th. The menu will include cat fish, buffalo, spaghetti, cole slaw and more.

The church is located at 1010 Benton Street in Poplar Bluff. For more information, call 573-785-4801.

MAN ARRESTED ON STATUTORY SODOMY WARRANT A Kennett man has been taken into custody on a statutory sodomy warrant.

According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, 30 year old Earl James Miller was recently arrested on a warrant for 1st degree statutory sodomy.

As of this morning, Miller remained in jail and his bond has been set at $150,000 cash only.

FLU CLINICS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK AT BUTLER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT Two flu clinics are scheduled for this week at the Butler County Health Department in Poplar Bluff.

Officials with the Butler County Health Department say that everyone six months old and older should get a flu shot to be prepared for the peak period of flu season, which runs from December through February.

A flu clinic is scheduled for 1 to 4:30 pm on Tuesday at the Health Department. Another clinic has been scheduled for Thursday from 8:30 am to 6 pm.

You can find more information at the Butler County Health Department’s website, ButlerCountyHealth.org.

PUBLIC MEETINGS SET FOR THIS WEEK FOR WAPPAPELLO LAKE WATER CONTROL PLAN Two public meetings have been scheduled for this week to discuss the Lake Wappapello water control plan.

According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the first meeting will be held at 6 pm on Tuesday at the Bill Emerson Memorial Visitor Center. The second meeting will be held on Wednesday at the St. Francis Drainage District building in Piggott beginning at 10 am.

During each meeting a presentation will be given on the water control plan and 2017 operations by members of the Corps of Engineers staff. The staff will also host a question and answer session regarding operations.

ANNUAL STUDENT BRIDGE BUILDING COMPETITION TO BE HELD THIS WEEK The 14th annual Missouri Department of Transportation Bridge Building Competition will be held this week.

The competition challenges high school juniors and seniors from across Southeast Missouri to design and construct the most efficient model bridge using limited materials including 15 pieces of balsa wood, thread and glue.

Prizes donated by area organizations will be awarded to the top-five bridge building winners, as well as for the most aesthetic bridge and the electronic bridge building contest. Similar to previous years, cash prizes will be given to the top three schools with the best overall performance.

The competition will be held Thursday, beginning at 9 am at Rose Theater in Cape Girardeau.

More information is available online at MoDot.org.

Friday November 10, 2017

SKELETAL REMAINS FOUND IN BUTLER COUNTY LAKE BELIEVED TO BE MISSING MANSkeletal remains that were recently found in a drained Butler County lake are believed to be that of a man who has been missing since July of 2015.

Sheriff Mark Dobbs spoke with KWOC News and said the remains were found in a lake on Butler County Road 572 last week and are believed to Ed Goodwin.

MARK DOBBS:

The lake that was drained, at the bottom of it is a very difficult area to search. The search will continue with sifting and eventually with the cadaver dogs and things of that nature. It’s a scene where...kind of muddy bottom, it's kind of a swampy area with a lot of thick underbrush so it's going to take some time to get all the way through that and so a thorough job of processing that scene, so there's a lot of work still to be done. Although the skeletal remains that we found, we strongly believed to be Mr. Goodwin, we will have to confirm that through a laboratory through DNA analysis and that could take a little while to get that positive identification done since we're doing it just through skeletal remains as unique kind of a DNA comparison has to be done for that kind of a process, so it's going to take a little while. We feel confident that we are where we want to be and that is definitely the remains of Ed Goodwin. At this time we're continuing our investigation so that we can form an airtight case on the individuals responsible for this act. It's been an exhausting search that has lasted over 2 years. There's been hundreds of man hours spent on this investigation, on this search. It's good to be able to give the family the answers that they've been looking for so desperately. I can only imagine how hard that is for a family.

Two arrests have been made, 31 year old Rickey Hurt for 1st degree murder, and 26 year old Lisa Tittle, of Poplar Bluff, for hindering prosecution. Both have been lodged in the Butler County Justice Center and Hurt’s bond was set at $300,000, cash only.

DONIPHAN SCHOOL PUT ON LOCKDOWN THURSDAY AFTERNOON An area high school was put on lockdown Thursday afternoon following a report of an active shooter.

According to authorities, shortly before 4 pm the Doniphan Police Department received a report from Doniphan High School of an active shooter on campus.

It was reported that a person or persons used the Doniphan R-1 school radio frequency and stated there was an active shooter on campus.

Officers responded to the school and cleared the buildings. It was determined there was no active shooter. Officials say that an investigation is ongoing.

ESCAPED INMATE BACK IN CUSTODY An escaped inmate from Carter County is back in custody.

21 year old Corey Hause had escaped from Sheriff’s Deputies early Thursday morning near Ellsinore.

Hause had been arrested on a traffic warrant Wednesday night before he escaped.

According to authorities, Hause was apprehended Thursday in Pemiscot County.

FISH FRY TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND TO CELEBRATE WORLD WAR TWO VETERAN’S HOME REPAIRS A community fish fry will be held this weekend to celebrate the repairs done to a World War 2 veteran’s home which was heavily damaged by severe weather earlier this year.

We spoke with Jeff Shawan about the event.

Jeff Shawan:

This Saturday, from 1 to 3 o’clock, we will have a community wide fish fry to celebrate the amazing effort that was put forth by our community to support World War 2 veteran Wilbur Schmitt and his wife Annie. This community all together raised $40,000 to repair and restore his home so he could take care of his Alzheimer’s patient wife. There will be no money raising whatsoever, it’s just a celebration of what our community has done on Veteran’s Day, how fitting is that, from 1 o’clock to 3 o’clock at 211 Almond Street. Come out and eat some fish on Saturday, look forward to seeing you there. Thank you once again everyone in the community who took part in this, thank you River Radio for the steadfast support to help make this effort a success. Come out on Saturday for some fried fish from 1 to 3 at 211 Almond Street.

MISSOURI STATE VETERANS CEMETERY TO HOLD VETERANS DAY PROGRAM The Missouri State Veterans Cemetery at Bloomfield will be holding their annual Veterans Day Program on Saturday.

The program will begin at 1 pm at the Committal Shelter Plaza in the cemetery. The keynote speaker for this year’s program is Major John P. Myers.

Families and friends of those interred as well as the general public are invited to attend.

For more information about the program, you can contact the cemetery at 573-568-3871.

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 11th to November 21st.

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.

New Madrid County Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Lawson tells KWOC News that hunters have until 10 pm on the day of harvest to check their deer. If you shoot a deer but you cannot find it before 10 pm, you must contact the local conservation agent and let them know.

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

CREWS TO BE ALONG WAYNE COUNTY ROAD FOR TWO WEEKS BEGINNING TODAY Contractor crews will be in Wayne county beginning today for a two week project along Route D.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the crews will be installing chevrons along Route D between South Oak and Whispering Hills.

Officials say the work zone will be marked with signs and crews will be on working between 7 am to 5 pm daily through November 24th.

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL LIBRARIAN RECIEVES GRANT TO HELP TEACH STUDENTS ABOUT BEEF AND DAIRY PRODUCTS A Poplar Bluff elementary school librarian has received a grant to help teach students about beef and dairy products.

O'Neal Librarian Ashley Robertson was recently awarded $250 through the Missouri Farm Bureau Federation's Ag in the Classroom program. Under the grant, third graders will learn about how beef and dairy products are processed.

Robertson says that students will also have the opportunity to turn ice cream to butter and the final project will involve eating ice cream to celebrate what they have learned.

Supplementary to the unit of study, the elementary school is receiving weekly updates about the growth of a calf and the dairy farm it lives on through an adoption program of the St. Louis District Dairy Council.

Thursday November 9, 2017

OVER 100 GALLONS OF DIESEL SPILL DURING FATAL WRECK ON HIGHWAY 53 An area man has died following a wreck Wednesday afternoon in Butler County.

The wreck occurred shortly after 12:30 pm, when a vehicle driven by 41 year old Jason Burgess, of Poplar Bluff, reportedly crossed the center line of Highway 53 and collided head-on with a commercial vehicle.

Butler County Coroner Andy Moore tells KWOC News that Burgess was killed in the wreck.

A passenger in Burgess’s vehicle suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

Following the wreck, the commercial vehicle leaked approximately 130 gallons of diesel onto the roadway and Highway 53 was temporarily blocked for several hours before reopening.

NEW MADRID POLICE DEPARTMENT CREATING DATABASE OF CAMERA SYSTEMS TO ASSIST INVESTIGATIONS

The New Madrid Police Department has announced that they are creating a confidential database of camera systems around the city to assist officers investigating crimes that may have been captured on video.

According to the Police Department, participation is completely voluntary and you can remove your name from the database at any time. Anyone who chooses to participate may receive a call or visit from officers, should a crime occur in their neighborhood.

Anyone who has a video surveillance system that records outside their home or business and is interested in joining the database can call Assistant Chief Brandon Hanner at 573-748-6744.

MOTORISTS URGED TO USE CAUTION AROUND WORK ZONES IN BUTLER COUNTY

Motorists in Butler County are being urged by the Missouri Department of Transportation to use caution when around work zones.

According to MoDOT, contractor crews will begin installing chevrons today in Butler County. The crews will be working along Route W, between County Roads 508 and 526.

Work is scheduled to be done from 7 am to 5 pm daily through Thursday, November 23^rd.

EMERGENCY DRILL TO BE HELD TODAY IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

An emergency drill has been scheduled for today in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Paragould Police Department, officials from multiple organizations, including the Paragould police and fire departments, the Greene County Sheriff’s Department, the Greene County Rescue Squad, Arkansas Methodist Medical Center, and the Office of Emergency Management, will be participating in the drill.

Officials say that all entities involved will be operating as normal during the drill, which is scheduled to be conducted at 6 pm this evening.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB STEAK AND BURGER EVENT TO BE HELD TONIGHT

A former St. Louis Cardinals pitcher and outfielder be the speaker for the tonight’s 6^th Annual Steak and Burger.

Here’s Chris Rushin, of the Boys and Girls Club of Poplar Bluff, making the announcement last month at the Club. 

CHRIS RUSHIN: 

On behalf of the board of directors, staff, and most importantly the over 900 registered members of the Boys & Girls Club, it is with great pleasure to announce the author of The New York Times bestseller “the Phenom” and our guest speaker for the 6th annual Southeast Health Steak and burger November 9th at 6:30 at the Black River Coliseum, former Cardinal Rick Ankiel. Regular admission tickets are $75 a piece, they're on sale here at the Boys & Girls Club, our teen center administration location, 1306 Victory Lane. That is on the old high school campus, the brand new beautiful Poplar Bluff Middle School campus. And also the Chamber of Commerce, and the Black River Coliseum. VIP tickets are $100, but that’s going to get you backstage, you’re going to get a picture with Rick Ankiel, he’ll also be able to sign a piece of memorabilia for you and we always try to have at least one little something special there for everybody that gets to go to the VIP room. We have right now 48 kids on the waiting list, just for Middle School unit alone. And those are 48 kids that whenever 3 o’clock hits, and they go home, more times than not, their parents are at work. There's nobody there, nowhere to go, nothing to do. Studies show time and time and time again that somebody usually gets in trouble whenever there’s not that supervision.

Previous guest speakers for the event have included Jim Edmonds, Mike Matheny, and Michael Wacha. You can find more information about the event and purchase tickets at the Boys and Girls Club of Poplar Bluff’s website, BgCpB.org.

VETERANS DAY COOK OUT SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND IN DEXTER

A cook out is scheduled for Veterans Day this weekend in Dexter.

The cook out will be held following the parade on Saturday in the parking lot across from the Dexter VFW Post 2659. The parade is scheduled to begin at 10 am.

There will be smoked pork butts, sandwiches, and sides available. Proceeds from the event will go to benefit the VFW.

Wednesday November 8, 2017

MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO STABBING IN RIPLEY COUNTY A man was reportedly stabbed earlier this week in Ripley County.

According to authorities, the victim was stabbed in the chest and shoulder on Monday during an altercation near Fairdealing and was transported to an area hospital.

42 year old James Willcut has been taken into custody. According to Missouri Case Net, he is facing charges of assault 1^st degree and armed criminal action. His bond was set at $100,000.

RIPLEY COUNTY JURY CONVICTS MAN OF STATUTORY SODOMY AND CHILD MOLESTATION

A jury in Ripley County has convicted an area man on multiple charges, including child molestation.

Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley tells KWOC News that 62 year old Otis Lambert, of West Plains, has been found guilty on two counts of first-degree statutory sodomy and one count of first-degree child molestation.

Hawley says that Lambert sexually abused a child for several years.

Lambert faces two life sentences and Judge Michael Pritchett has set his sentencing for December 19^th.

HERMAN MORSE ELECTED TO THE MISSOURI HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Voters in Stoddard and western Scott County have elected Herman Morse to the Missouri House of Representatives.

Morse carried over 70 percent of the vote in defeating Curtis Clark and Rick Vandeven during a special election held yesterday.

Morse will fill the vacant seat in House Legislative District 151 that was formerly held by Tila Hubrecht, who resigned in June.

During Tuesday’s elections, use tax measures were approved in Stoddard County along with Campbell and rejected in Malden.

ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO IRON COUNTY SHOOTING

Authorities in Iron County say a man has been taken into custody in connection to a shooting that happened on Monday.

According to the Iron County Sheriff’s Office, at around 1:30 am Monday morning, 35 year old Thomas Ventimiglia was shot and subsequently died from an apparent gunshot wound.

A search was conducted for William King for first degree murder.  Officials say that King was taken into custody Tuesday without incident.

The incident is being investigated by the Iron County Sheriff’s Office and the Missouri Highway Patrol Crime Unit.

PUBLIC MEETINGS SET FOR NEXT WEEK FOR WAPPAPELLO LAKE WATER CONTROL PLAN

Two public meetings have been scheduled for next week to discuss the Wappapello Lake water control plan.

According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the first meeting will be held at 6 pm on Tuesday, November 14^th at the Wappapello Lake Bill Emerson Memorial Visitor Center. The second meeting will be held the next day at the St. Francis Drainage District building in Piggott beginning at 10 am.

During each meeting a presentation will be given on the water control plan and 2017 operations by members of the Corps of Engineers staff. The staff will also host a question and answer session regarding operations.

FIELD SET FOR 2017 POPLAR BLUFF SHOWDOWN

Five states will be represented at the 31st Annual Poplar Bluff ShowDown in December.

Teams from as far away as Milwaukee, Wisconsin will be in Poplar Bluff from Wednesday, December 27^th through Friday, December 29^th for the basketball tournament.

Joining the Mules will be Bradley Tech High School from Milwaukee, Christian Brothers College High School out of St. Louis, Christian County High School from Hopkinsville, Kentucky, Tennessee’s Cordova and Humboldt High Schools, along with Fayetteville High School and defending champion Jonesboro High School from Arkansas.

Poplar Bluff High School Athletic Director Kent Keith tells us that tickets for the ShowDown will go on sale soon.

Tuesday November 7, 2017

BOTH ESCAPED INMATES FROM PEMISCOT COUNTY JAIL ARE BACK IN CUSTODYBoth inmates who escaped last month from a Southeast Missouri jail are back in custody.

According to authorities, 41 year old Joseph Latamondeer was arrested Monday morning at a homeless shelter in New Orleans.

Latamondeer, along with 27 year old William Carter, escaped from the Pemiscot County Jail on October 15th.

Carter was apprehended in New Orleans on Saturday.

MAN SOUGHT IN IRON COUNTY SHOOTING DEATH Authorities in Iron County are searching for a man following an apparent shooting death.

According to the Iron County Sheriff’s Office, at around 1:30 am Monday morning, 35 year old Thomas Ventimiglia was shot and subsequently died from an apparent gunshot wound.

Officials say that a search is underway for William King, who is being sought for first degree murder.

An investigation into the incident is being conducted by the Iron County Sheriff’s Office and the Missouri Highway Patrol Crime Unit.

POPLAR BLUFF LIONS CLUB CHILI DAY TO BE HELD TODAY The Poplar Bluff Lions Club will be hosting their annual Chili Day today.

The event will be held from 11 am to 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm to 6:30 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.

Proceeds from the event will go to helping provide people in the community with eyeglasses.

OVER THREE MILLION DOLLARS OF FENTANYL FOUND DURING TRAFFIC STOP IN NEW MADRID COUNTY An Arizona woman was arrested last week in Southeast Missouri in what is being described as the largest Fentanyl seizure ever in Missouri.

Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells KWOC News that last Wednesday a trooper stopped a 2017 Dodge Grand Caravan on Interstate 55 in New Madrid County for a traffic violation.

During the traffic stop, the trooper observed several indicators of criminal activity and requested a search. During the search, 4.8 pounds of pure Fentanyl was seized that has an estimated street value of more than $3 million.

The driver, 27 year old Angel Larar-Esteban, of Phoenix, Arizona, was arrested for felony drug trafficking and endangering the welfare of a child.

DEXTER RESIDENT ARRESTED ON CHARGE OF SEXUAL MISCONDUCT INVOLVING A CHILD A Dexter resident was in custody this morning on a sexual misconduct charge.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 27 year old Johnnie Wayne Underwood Jr. was recently arrested on a charge of sexual misconduct involving a child under 15.

Few details about the arrest have been released, but officials with the Sheriff’s Department say that Underwood remained in jail as of this morning on a $12,000 cash only bond.

NAYLOR MAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK INVOLVING TRACTOR A Naylor man was seriously injured Sunday evening after being involved in a wreck with a tractor in Pemiscot County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 65 year old Robert Hardin ran off of Route T after striking a towed unit of the tractor at around 5:30 pm on Sunday.

Hardin suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a Memphis hospital. No injuries were listed for the driver of the tractor.

SPECIAL ELECTION TO BE HELD TO FILL VACATED MISSOURI HOUSE OF REPRESTITIVES SEAT Some Southeast Missouri residents will head to the ballot box today to vote for representatives in the state Government.

A special election will be held today for representative of Missouri House District 151, which covers all of Stoddard County and parts of western Scott County. On the ballot will be Republican Herman Morse, Democrat Curtis Clark, and Libertarian Rick Vandeven.

The seat was vacated in June following the resignation of Tila Hubrecht.

Monday November 6, 2017

ARREST MADE IN WAYNE COUNTY SHOOTINGAn arrest has been made following a shooting over the weekend in Wayne County.

According to Wayne County Sheriff Dean Finch, Marshall Lucas Helm, of Greenville, was shot and killed on Saturday afternoon.

Joshua Oldham, also of Greenville, has been taken into custody. According to Missouri Case Net, Oldham is facing charges of 1st degree murder and armed criminal action.

An autopsy has been scheduled for this morning at 9:30 am in Farmington.

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR POPLAR BLUFF A Williamsville woman was taken to an area hospital Friday afternoon following a single vehicle wreck in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 19 year old Cory Logdson was driving on County Road 401, about 2 miles west of US 67, when his vehicle ran off the right side of the road and struck a ditch.

A passenger in the vehicle, 18 year old Erin Harris, suffered moderate injuries in the wreck and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

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.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR 2ND AND 3RD GRADE BASKETBALL IN POPLAR BLUFF IS THIS WEEK The Registration deadline for 2nd and 3rd grade boys and girls basketball in Poplar Bluff is this week.

According to Rec Supervisor Greg Riggs, registration will be available for free through Thursday, November 9th. You can find registration forms online at www.PoplarBluff-MO.gov or at the Parks and Recreation Department office on North Second Street.

ESCAPED INMATE CAPTURED IN NEW ORLEANS Authorities in New Orleans, Louisiana have captured an inmate who escaped nearly two weeks ago from the Pemiscot County Jail.

27 year old William Carter and 41 year old Joseph Latamondeer escaped in the early morning hours on October 15. William Carter was found Saturday afternoon by authorities in New Orleans. Joseph Latamondeer is still on the run.

Carter had been in custody on 2 counts of murder 1st degree.

BUFFALO WILD WINGS IN POPLAR BLUFF TO DONATE PORTION OF SALES TODAY TO RECOVERY EXPENSES OF MARTEZ JANIS Anybody who eats at the Buffalo Wild Wings location in Poplar Bluff today will also be helping the recovery efforts of Martez Janis.

Janis is a Poplar Bluff student who was severely injured in a car wreck last month that resulted in the deaths of three other students.

KWOC News spoke with Becky Johnson, Regional Manager with Buffalo Wild Wings, about the fundraiser.

BECKY JOHNSON:

Today we're taking the opportunity to give back to the community with an “Eat Wings, Raise Funds” to rally around Martez Janis, who was recently involved in a tragedy. He's a survivor and we want to do our part to give back to him and his family to help them with recovery expenses, so we're giving back 10% of all the proceeds made today to help his family with whatever expenses they may have moving forward through his recovery process. This idea came about because Buffalo Wild Wings has a program called “Eat Wings, Raise Funds” and it's an opportunity for us to give some of our proceeds to an organization or a family or a person in need in the community. So whenever we found out about the tragedy that Poplar Bluff had suffered this was the perfect opportunity for us to give back to that family. So come out to Buffalo Wild Wings today. Let us know you're here to support Martez Janis recovery efforts with “Eat Wings, Raise Funds” and we’ll give 10% back to his family. Buffalo Wild Wings loves to support our local community any chance we get so come out to support our “Eat Wings, Raise Funds” event today for Martez Janis all day long, from open 10:30 a.m. till close at midnight tonight.

KWOC will be broadcasting live from Buffalo Wild Wings from 11 am until 1 pm.

SCREENING APPOINTMENTS BEING ACCEPTED FOR POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER Appointments are now being taken for the next screening day for the Poplar Bluff Early Childhood Center.

The screening appointments for the current school year are available for children who were 3 years old before July 31st, 2017 and were not 5 years old before that date. The screenings will be held on Friday, December 1st.

You must have your child’s social security number available when calling to make an appointment. To make an appointment, call 573-785-6803 and ask for Sandy Case.

GRIEF SHARE SEMINAR TO BE HELD THIS WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF A seminar has been scheduled for this week to help people who are grieving the loss of a loved one over the holiday season.

The Surviving the Holidays seminar by Grief Share, will help people discover how to deal with their emotions and get through social events over the holidays.

The seminar will be held from 6 to 8 pm on Thursday, November 9th at Fellowship General Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff.

You can find more information online at www.griefshare.org/holidays.

Friday, November 3, 2017

ATV WRECK CLAIMS LIFE OF BUNKER MAN

  A Bunker man has died from injuries he received in an ATV wreck on Thursday.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred on private property in Reynolds County at around 4 pm yesterday.

36 year old Justin Prendergast was driving the ATV when the vehicle overturned onto him while he was attempting to make a turn.

Prendergast was pronounced dead at the scene by deputy coroner Tom Stout.

  POPLAR BLUFF KMART TO CLOSE IN LATE JANUARY

  A long time Poplar Bluff store will be closing early next year.

The Poplar Bluff Kmart is one of 45 Kmart stores nationwide that will be closed in late January.

Sears Holdings informed associates about the closures on Thursday and said that eligible associates impacted by the closures will receive severance.

In addition to the 45 Kmart stores, 18 Sears stores will also be closed, however no local stores were included in the closures.

  DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS THIS WEEKEND

  The sun will begin rising an hour earlier on Sunday.

Daylight Saving Time will come to an end at 2 am Sunday morning. Remember to set your clocks back one hour before you go to bed Saturday night.

Daylight Saving Time will start again on Sunday, March 11th, 2018.

  TWIN RIVERS BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL TEAMS TO HOST TRIVIA NIGHT FUNDRAISER THIS WEEKEND

  The Twin Rivers Baseball and Softball teams will be hosting a trivia night fundraiser this weekend.

The event will begin at 6 pm Saturday night at the Twin Rivers High School Gymnasium. Entry is $10 per person and there can be five to eight people per team.

In addition to the trivia there will also be a 50/50 raffle and a silent auction.

For more information, contact Jared Stockton at 573-778-2244.

  9TH ANNUAL HOWLING AT THE MOON TO BE HELD TONIGHT

  The Animal Welfare Alliance of Southeast Missouri is preparing for their benefit tonight.

“Howling at the Moon,” the 9th annual fall benefit for the AWA is scheduled for 6 to 10 pm tonight at the Westwood Center in Poplar Bluff.

Tickets will be available at the door with proceeds going towards building a no-kill animal shelter. There will be catering provided by Mayas and live entertainment by “Thin Blue Line” at the event.

For more information, visit www.AWASEMO.org

  POPLAR BLUFF LEAF PICK UP SCHEDULE TO BEGIN NEXT WEEK

  The leaf pick up schedule for the city of Poplar Bluff is set to begin next week.

According to city officials, the leaf pick up will be in Ward 1 from November 6th to November 22nd. It will move to other city wards in the following weeks.

Leaves may also be disposed of at the landfill located on the east side of the city. To reach the landfill, take Bartlett Street to “F” Street and go under the railroad crossing. Follow the graveled portion of “F” Street around the curve and the disposal is located on the left side of the road. There are signs marking the location.

The site is open for leaf disposal from 8 am to 3:30 pm Monday through Friday.

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

Thursday, November 2, 2017

TWO MEN ARRESTED IN REYNOLDS COUNTY SHOOTING APPEARED IN COURT ON WEDNESDAY

  The two men who were arrested in connection to the shooting deaths of two people in Reynolds County are back in Missouri.

Both 67 year old David Young, of Ironton, and 44 year old Timothy Callahan, of Farmington, have been extradited to Reynolds County and according to Missouri Case Net, arraignment has been held for both men.

They were arrested in Ohio on Saturday in connection to the shooting deaths of James and Janet Nance on October 18th near Ellington.

Young and Callahan are each facing multiple charges including two counts of first degree murder.

  POPLAR BLUFF POLICE TRYING TO IDENTIFY WOMAN IN FORGERY CASE

  Authorities in Poplar Bluff are working to identify a person of interest in connection to an active case.

Poplar Bluff police released a picture of a woman yesterday who they say is a person of interest in an active forgery case. We have the picture available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who has information on the identity of the woman is asked to contact Detective Woodruff at 573-785-5776, extension 1360.

  THREE RIVERS COLLEGE OPENS NOMINATIONS FOR DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD

  Nominations are now being accepted for the 2018 Three Rivers College Distinguished Alumni Award.

College officials say that the award recognizes the accomplishments and achievements of Three Rivers College graduates and former students.

Nominees will be judged on the merits of their personal and professional achievements. A committee drawn from College employees and the Three Rivers Endowment Trust will choose the winner.

Nominations can be submitted by going to trcc.edu/distinguished. The deadline for nominations is December 11th.

The award will be given at a recognition reception held next spring.

  AUTHORITIES IN NEW MADRID COUNTY SEARCHING FOR WANTED MAN

  A man is being sought in New Madrid County for multiple charges.

Officials with the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that they are searching for Jerry Simmons, who is wanted for the Class A felonies of assault 1st degree and robbery.

The Sheriff’s Department is also searching for Ricky Dewayne Davis Jr. for a probation violation. We have pictures of both men available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anybody with information on Simmons or Davis’s whereabouts is asked to call 573-748-2516.

  HEALTH ON WHEELS COMMUNITY FAIR SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND

  The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a public event this weekend.

The Health on Wheels Community Fair and Adaptive Bike Donation will be held on Saturday from noon to 3 pm.

There will be numerous activities, including a kids' bike decoration contest and parade, free flu shots for Veterans, an open house and facility tours, chats with VA leaders, paraffin thermal baths and other demonstrations, and tax-free shopping at the Veterans Canteen Services Store

The event, sponsored by VA’s Office of Community Engagement, the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center, and National AMBUCS, is open to veterans, their families, and the general public.

  CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR UPCOMING ROAD PROJECTS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

  Contracts have been awarded for numerous road projects in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, contracts were awarded Wednesday by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for pavement improvements on Routes C and 91 in Stoddard County, Routes O, C, and V V in Dunklin County, and Route EE in Pemiscot County.

MoDOT officials say that additional information regarding timelines and impacts to traffic will be released prior to the start of construction.

  DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED NEXT WEEK FOR VETERANS DAY

  Driver examination stations across the state of Missouri will be closed for one day next week.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the stations will be closed on Friday, November 10th in observance of Veterans' Day.

Normal operations will then resume on Monday, November 13th.