Thursday March 29, 2018

IDENTITY RELEASED OF VICTIM IN DUNKLIN COUNTY HOMICIDE

Authorities have released the name of a man killed yesterday in Dunklin County.

The body of Geoffrey Wright, of Malden, was found Wednesday afternoon. He had been reportedly shot multiple times in a vehicle. Wright’s death is being investigated as a homicide.

Authorities are searching for 30 year old David Lee Anderson of Poplar Bluff in connection to the death. Anderson is described as a black male, 5’9 inches tall, weighs 185 pounds with a scar on his upper lip. He is also being considered armed and dangerous.

If you any information of Wright’s whereabouts, you are being asked to contact the Malden Police Department at (573)-276-2211.

OVER 60 CASES OF HEPATITIS A REPORTED BY BUTLER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Health officials are continuing to see an increase in reported Hepatitis A cases in Butler County.

According to the Butler County Health Department, as of March 26th, 65 cases of Hepatitis A have been reported with 59 percent of the cases requiring hospitalization.

Officials say that the majority of cases have been in people who use drugs and/or their close personal contacts.

Anyone who has been potentially exposed to an individual experiencing Hepatitis A signs or symptoms is asked to call or visit the Butler County Health Department.

POPLAR BLUFF ROTARY CLUB TO HOST SPAGHETTI DAY NEXT WEEK

The Poplar Bluff Rotary Club will be hosting a spaghetti day next week.

The event is scheduled for 11 am to 1 pm and 5 to 7 pm on Tuesday April 3rd at 1st Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff.

Tickets will cost $5. To go and deliveries will be available. For more information, call 573-429-2215. 

ANOTHER ROUND OF RAIN TO MOVE INTO OUR AREA TODAY

After a quick break from rain yesterday, another storm system will be moving into our area today and tonight.

According to a hazardous weather outlook issued by the National Weather Service, some areas of Southeast Missouri have already received two inches of rainfall this week. Weather officials say another one to three inches of rainfall is forecast for most of our listening area through tonight.

Weather officials say that additional rainfall could create some flooding issues and make flooding worse along area rivers and streams.

DONIPHAN WOMAN TAKEN TO HOSPITAL AFTER WRECK IN HOWELL COUNTY

A Doniphan woman was taken to a hospital after being involved in a wreck in Howell County.

According to authorities, 28 year old Renalyn Cardinal was driving on US 160 Wednesday morning, when her vehicle ran off the left side of the road, overturned, and struck a tree.

Cardinal received moderate injuries in the wreck and flown to a Memphis hospital.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED NEXT WEEK FOR PARTIAL OVERLAY

Route KK in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews partially overlay the roadway.

According to MoDOT, the work zone will be located from Route 114 to the end of state maintenance.                

Weather permitting, work will take place next Wednesday through Thursday from 6 am to 4:30 pm daily.

POPLAR BLUFF CHURCH TO HOST BLACK LIGHT EGG HUNT THIS WEEKEND

An egg hunt has been scheduled for this weekend at a Poplar Bluff church.

The Southside Assembly of God will be hosting Eggsplosion 2018 on March 31st.

The black light egg hunt will be held from noon to 1:30 pm at the Southside Assembly at 404 West Midland.  

Wednesday March 28, 2018

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY ASSAULT AND DRUG CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest in Butler County.

According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, 32 year old David Smith was taken into custody at around 3 am Sunday morning, on felony charges of vehicular assault 2nd degree, felony leaving the scene of an accident, and possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine.

Smith is also facing charges of possession of marijuana – 10 grams or less, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

CAMPBELL MAN INJURED FOLLOWING WRECK IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

A Campbell man was injured in a wreck Tuesday morning in Dunklin County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the accident occurred at around 6:30 am Tuesday when a vehicle, driven by 23 year old Logan Chambliss, failed to negotiate a curve, ran off the right side of the roadway, and struck a ditch.
 
Chambliss received moderate injuries in the wreck and was transported to a Dexter hospital.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED NEXT WEEK FOR PARTIAL OVERLAY

Route N in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews partially overlay the roadway.

According to MoDOT, the work zone will be located between Route E and US 60.                      

Weather permitting, work will take place next Monday and Tuesday from 6 am to 4:30 pm daily.

MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY FOR METH

Authorities in Butler County have arrested a Poplar Bluff man on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 19 year old Hunter Sandlin was arrested over the weekend on a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Sandlin is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, he was held at the Butler County Jail.

DATE SET FOR 2018 REAL MEN RALLY

The date has been set for the next Real Men Rally at the Palace of Praise in Poplar Bluff.

The event on Saturday, April 21st, will include competitions, dinner, and speakers including John Godwin from Duck Dynasty and Jonathan Zeigler.

Advanced tickets are available for $20 through April 20th. Tickets will cost $25 at the door.

The Palace of Praise Church is located at 1400 Herschel Bess Boulevard in Poplar Bluff.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit RealMenRally.com.

RIVER CLEAN UP SCHEDULED FOR EARLY APRIL

The 2018 River Cleanup event has been scheduled for early April on streams and trails at Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

The event will be held from 9 am to 4 pm on April 7th, with registration beginning at 8 am. At 5 pm that evening there will be a meal and entertainment for participants at Big Spring.

For more information, contact Dawn White at 573-323-4945.

POPLAR BLUFF CHURCH TO HOST EASTER FUN FEST THIS WEEKEND

A Poplar Bluff church will be hosting a Easter fun fest this weekend.

Cornerstone Tabernacle will be hosting the event on Saturday, March 31st from 2 to 5 pm.

Officials say there will be a food truck, egg hunt, craft table, prizes, games, music, and more. Cornerstone Tabernacle is located at 3516 North Westwood Blvd in Poplar Bluff.

Tuesday March 27, 2018

POPLAR BLUFF MAN KILLED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK

Authorities in Butler County have released the name of a man who was killed in a wreck over the weekend.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, on Sunday morning, 82 year old Alvie Browning, of Poplar Bluff, was driving on US 67 in Butler County, when his vehicle crossed the center line and pulled into the path of another vehicle.

Officials say the wreck occurred at around 9:30 am, 6 miles south of Poplar Bluff.

Browning was pronounced dead at the scene by Deputy Coroner Brian Fugate.

A passenger in the second vehicle was seriously injured and the driver suffered moderate injuries. Both were also taken to an area hospital.

FREE MAMMOGRAMS TO BE OFFERED STARTING TODAY IN THREE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COMMUNITIES

Free mammograms will be offered starting today in three Southeast Missouri communities. 

Later today, Saint Francis Healthcare System will be offering the private, quick screenings for women with no health insurance at the Bollinger County Health Center, in Marble Hill, from 1 to 5 pm. 

Mammograms will also be offered at the Iron County Health Department, in Ironton, from 8 am to noon and 1 pm to 5 pm on Wednesday, and at Piedmont Physician Associates from 8 am to noon on Thursday. 

Attendees must register for the free screenings by calling 573-331-3996. 

YOUTH SUMMER JOB OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE AT ELEVEN POINT RANGER DISTRICT

Teenagers from 15 to 18 years old can now apply for Mark Twain National Forest summer jobs on the Eleven Point Ranger District in the Doniphan area through the Youth Conservation Corps.

The Youth Conservation Corps is a paid summer work program for youth, both male and female, designed to develop an understanding and appreciation of the environment. 

Work duties include building trails, clerical/office support, maintaining and cleaning up campgrounds, and improving wildlife habitat. 

Applicants are not required to live in the local area, but anyone chosen for the program must be capable of reporting daily to the job location. The application window closes this Friday.

For more information, contact the Eleven Point Ranger District at 573-996-2153.

ONE ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO CARDWELL HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION

Authorities in Dunklin County have arrested a man in connection to the death of a local woman.

Officials with the Dunklin County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News, that at around 12:15 pm Sunday afternoon, they received a 911 call saying someone had killed their mother. Officials say the caller gave an address on East Mulberry Street in Cardwell.  

Officers arrived and found the victim, who was later identified as 77 year old Vada Nichols of Cardwell.

Officials say that 54 year old Charles Scott Lipper has been taken into custody on charges of 1st degree murder, 1st degree robbery, and 1st degree burglary.  

KENNETT MAN TAKEN TO AREA HOSPITAL AFTER WRECK IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

A Kennett man was taken to an area hospital after being involved in a wreck in Dunklin County.

According to authorities, 67 year old Ristel Payne was driving on County Road 421, 3 miles north of Kennett, Friday evening when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and struck a tree.

Payne, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected during the wreck and received moderate injuries. He was later taken to a Kennett hospital.

KANSAS CITY DANCE GROUP TO BRING MUSIC OF SPAIN TO POPLAR BLUFF

A dance group from Kansas City will be in Poplar Bluff later this week as a part of the ongoing Patrons of the Arts season at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

This Thursday night at 7 pm, Olé Music & Dance of Spain will be performing an evening of flamenco dance styles, including fandango and tango.

Tickets for the show are $15 and available at trcc.edu.

The Patrons of the Arts season will wrap up on April 30th, with the Moscow Festival Ballet performance of the Sleeping Beauty.

WOLF CREEK TRAIL RUN SCHEDULED FOR MARCH 31ST

The 5th Annual Wolf Creek Trail Run is set for this weekend.

The event will be held on March 31st at the Wolf Creek Bike Trail in Poplar Bluff.

The half marathon is scheduled to begin at 8 am, with the 6k race starting at 9 am.

Registration is available online at UltraSignUp.com. Proceeds from the event go to inclusive playground equipment at Kiwanis Bacon Park.

Monday March 26, 2018

TWO ARRESTS MADE DURING ST. PATRICK’S DAY CRACKDOWN IN DEXTER

Authorities in Dexter tell KWOC News that two arrests were made during a crackdown held around the St. Patrick’s Day holiday.

According to the Dexter Police Department, 66 contacts were made during the crackdown, which ran from March 16th to March 18.  Two arrests were made, one was a fugitive who was apprehended and the other was a drug arrest.

Officer’s also issued 1 stop sign violation, 9 speeding violations, 10 seat belt violations, 2 driving while suspended/revoked violations, and 2 uninsured motorists violations, in addition to 57 verbal warnings.

BUTLER COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY BANQUET TO BE HELD TONIGHT

The Butler County Emergency Management Agency will be hosting a banquet tonight in Poplar Bluff.

The banquet is scheduled to begin at 5:30 pm at the United Gospel Rescue Mission.

There will be a special presentation featuring vintage photographs provided by the Lloyd Miller Family.

DEBORAH HARPER NAMED POPLAR BLUFF R-1 TEACHER OF THE YEAR

A Poplar Bluff Kindergarten teacher has been named the R-I district Teacher of the Year.

Deborah Harper received the award during the annual luncheon held last Thursday.

Teachers of the year are nominated by the peers in early February with formal submission to a committee, who reads through materials. Letters written by parents, children, and fellow teachers are used to highlight the reasons each nominee deserves recognition. Harper, was nominated by special education teacher Shelly Johnson.

Harper was also named the R-1 district Teacher of the Year back in 2004-2005.

PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSION SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT TO DISCUSS POPLAR BLUFF POLICE ACCREDITATION

A question and answer session has been scheduled for tonight in Poplar Bluff to discuss the upcoming Poplar Bluff Police Department accreditation assessment.

KWOC News spoke with Lieutenant Darron Moore about the assessment. 

LT. DARRON MOORE:

The Poplar Bluff Police Department is scheduled to undergo an on-site assessment as part of the program to retain our international accreditation status by verifying we meet CALEA’S professional standards.  Administered by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, (CALEA), the accreditation program requires agencies to comply with state-of-the-art standards in four basic areas: policy and procedures, administration, operations, and support services.  As part of the on-site assessment, agency employees and members of the community are invited to offer personal testimony or other comments at a public information session that will be held this afternoon at 5:30 p.m.  The session will be conducted in the Community Room of the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce located at 1111 W. Pine or by calling (573) 785-5776 Ext. 1381 or 1382 this afternoon between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.  Comments during this period will be taken by the assessment team and documented for inclusion into the assessment team’s final report.  Telephone comments as well as appearances at the public information session are limited to ten (10) minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with CALEA’s standards.  A copy of the Standards are available at the Poplar Bluff Police Department.  Individuals who wish to review the various standards should contact me Lt. Darron Moore at (573) 712-2590.  Anyone wishing to submit written comments about the Poplar Bluff Police Department’s ability to comply with the standards for accreditation may send them to the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement, they can do this via e-mail at calea@calea.org.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

Authorities in Butler County have arrested an area woman on a controlled substance warrant.

Officials with the Butler County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 40 year old Stephanie Ann Crider was recently arrested on a warrant for distribution of a controlled substance near a school.

Crider’s bond was set at $100,000 cash only and she remains in jail as of this morning.

EARLY CHILDHOOD SCREENING AND KINDERGARTEN ENROLLMENT TO BE HELD TOMORROW FOR TWIN RIVERS FISK CAMPUS

Officials in the Twin Rivers R-10 School District have announced they will be holding early childhood screening and kindergarten enrollment tomorrow in Fisk.

Early Childhood Screening for all preschool children and kindergarten enrollment for children turning five before August 1st, 2018 will be held on Tuesday from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm at Fisk Middle School.

Screening will be conducted in areas of health, vision, hearing, dental, speech, language, and general development.

Each child should bring their immunization records, birth certificate, social security card, and a parent’s picture ID. Children enrolling in kindergarten must also bring three items providing proofs of residency.

To make an appointment, call 967-3607.

EDGE RUT REPAIRS SET TO BEGIN TODAY ON ROUTE 142 IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route 142 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane today and tomorrow as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform edge rut repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Cravens Road to Route 158.

Weather permitting, work will performed from 7 am to 4:30 pm each day.

Friday March 23, 2018

VIETNAM VETERANS DAY CEREMONY TO BE HELD TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

A ceremony has been scheduled for today to commemorate Vietnam Veterans Day.

The ceremony by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #1056 will begin at 11 am this morning at the Tinnin Center on the Poplar Bluff campus of Three Rivers College.

Officials say that the event will be free and open to the public.

MALDEN WOMAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Malden woman is facing multiple drug related charges following her arrest Thursday in Butler County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 22 year old Alana Smith was taken into custody shortly before 5:30 pm yesterday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Smith was also arrested on charges of possession of marijuana and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

COUNTERFEIT MONEY REPORTED IN ANOTHER SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COMMUNITY

There has been another report of fake money being used in a Southeast Missouri community.

Officials with the Marble Hill Police Department are warning area business owners and citizens that counterfeit currency is being passed around within the city limits of Marble Hill. 

A local business owner found a counterfeit $50 bill Thursday and reported it to police. Last week, the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce reported that a number of counterfeit $50 bills had been circulating throughout Poplar Bluff.

Officials say you should check all currency before accepting it to ensure it is a valid bill. If you are not sure of how to check currency for validity, contact the Marble Hill Police Department.

MISSING POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENTS FOUND SAFE

Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, police say that a missing Poplar Bluff mother and infant have been found.

Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that 32 year old Sara Brown and one year old Geneva Genova had been missing since March 7th.

Stewart says that both Brown and her child have been found safe. Additional details about the incident have not been released.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN FACING MULTIPLE FELONY CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGES

Authorities in Butler County have taken an area woman into custody on multiple felony drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 53 year old Tammy Wells, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested Thursday evening on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and alprazolam.

Wells is also reportedly facing charges of driving while intoxicated – drugs, unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana.

TWO ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON WARRANTS FOR FAILURE TO REGISTER AS SEX OFFENDERS

Two men were in custody this morning in Stoddard County on failure to register warrants.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 38 year old Shawn Marty, of McGee, and 34 year old Mark Williams, of Bernie, were each recently arrested on warrants for failure to register as a sex offender.

Officials say they both remained in jail as of this morning.

TWIN RIVERS PROJECT GRADUATION TO HOST FISH FRY THIS WEEKEND

The Twin Rivers Class of 2018 Project Graduation will be holding a fish fry and pool tournament this weekend.

The all-ages event is scheduled to begin at noon on Saturday at Morgan’s Place in Fisk.

There will also be raffle tickets available for a rifle, scope, and gun case.

All proceeds from the fish fry, pool tournament, and raffle will go to Project Graduation.

PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSION SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT TO DISCUSS POPLAR BLUFF POLICE ACCREDITATION

A question and answer session has been scheduled for Monday Night in Poplar Bluff to discuss the upcoming Poplar Bluff Police Department accreditation assessment. 

KWOC News spoke with Lieutenant Darron Moore about the assessment. 

LT. DARRON MOORE:

"The Poplar Bluff Police Department is scheduled to undergo an on-site assessment as part of the program to retain our international accreditation status by verifying we meet CALEA’S professional standards.  Administered by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, (CALEA), the accreditation program requires agencies to comply with state-of-the-art standards in four basic areas: policy and procedures, administration, operations, and support services.  As part of the on-site assessment, agency employees and members of the community are invited to offer personal testimony or other comments at a public information session that will be held Monday afternoon at 5:30 p.m.  The session will be conducted in the Community Room of the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce located at 1111 W. Pine or by calling (573) 785-5776 Ext. 1381 or 1382 Monday afternoon between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.  Comments during this period will be taken by the assessment team and documented for inclusion into the assessment team’s final report.  Telephone comments as well as appearances at the public information session are limited to ten (10) minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with CALEA’s standards.  A copy of the Standards are available at the Poplar Bluff Police Department.  Individuals who wish to review the various standards should contact me Lt. Darron Moore at (573) 712-2590.  Anyone wishing to submit written comments about the Poplar Bluff Police Department’s ability to comply with the standards for accreditation may send them to the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement, they can do this via e-mail at calea@calea.org."
 

Thursday March 22, 2018

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR MISSING MOTHER AND HER CHILD

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are asking for the public’s help in locating a missing mother and child.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tell KWOC News that family members have reported that 32 year old Sara Brown and one year old Geneva Genova, of Poplar Bluff, left a family member’s residence on March 7th and have not been seen since.

Brown last spoke with a family member by phone on March 16th, but refused to provide her location. Family members have expressed concern for Brown and her child due to Brown’s increased paranoia and mental instability.

Brown is believed to be in the Osage Beach, Missouri area, travelling in a white 2009 Cadillac CTS bearing a Missouri registration CL2-G5X.

We have pictures of both Brown and her child available on our website and Facebook page.

Anyone with information on their whereabouts is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

STODDARD COUNTY HEALTH FAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY AND TOMORROW 

Two Health Fairs have been set for this week in Stoddard County.

The fairs will be held today at the Bernie Community Center and tomorrow at the Stoddard County Nutrition Center in Dexter. Both health fairs will run from 10 am until 2 pm.

There will be screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, 02 stats, glaucoma, hearing, and vision held during the event.

There will also be many vendors available to provide information on home health, hospice, nursing home care, assisted living Alzheimer's, and living wills.

POPLAR BLUFF BASKETBALL PLAYER NAMED TO CLASS 5 ALL STATE TEAM

A Poplar Bluff basketball player has been named to the Class 5 All State team.

Junior Dominique Hardimon was one of 20 players statewide to be named all state in Class 5.

Poplar Bluff Boys Basketball Coach Will Durden has also been selected as the SEMO Conference Boys Basketball Coach of the Year.

Coach Durden led the Mules to the Class 5, District 1 Championship and finished the season with an 18-9 record.

RECALL ISSUED FOR SMOKE ALARM

A recall has been issued for over 450,000 smoke alarms that were sold in the US.

According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, the recall is for Kidde dual-sensor smoke alarms – models PI2010 and PI9010.

The commission says that a yellow cap left on during the manufacturing process can cover one of the two smoke sensors and compromise the smoke alarm’s ability to detect smoke, posing a risk of consumers not being alerted to a fire in their home.

The alarm was sold at Menards, Home Depot, Walmart and other department, home, and hardware stores nationwide as well as online at Amazon.com and other websites.

Consumers should remove the alarm from the wall/ceiling and visually inspect it through the opening on the side of the alarm for the presence of a yellow cap.

Consumers should not attempt to take apart the alarm, open the casing, or otherwise remove the yellow cap themselves. If a yellow cap is present, the consumer should immediately contact Kidde to receive instructions and request a free replacement smoke alarm.

Consumers can contact Kidde toll-free at 833-551-7739 or online at www.kidde.com.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY WRECK

A single vehicle wreck in Pemiscot County has left a Steele man with serious injuries.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 22 year old Justin Willingham was driving in the area of Route NN at US 412 last night when his vehicle ran off the roadway and into a steep ditch.

Willingham, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was seriously injured in the wreck and flown to a Memphis hospital.

PARAGOULD MAN WINS $100,000 FROM SCRATCHERS TICKET 

A Northeast Arkansas man has received some help in getting out of debt.

According to the Arkansas Scholarship Lottery, a Paragould man recently won $100,000 playing a $5 Bank on It Scratchers Card that he purchased at an area convenience store.

The man said he was going to use his winnings to pay off his house.

Wednesday March 21, 2018

PUXICO MAN KILLED IN STODDARD COUNTY WRECK

Authorities in Stoddard County have released the name of a man who was killed in a wreck over the weekend.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, on Saturday afternoon, 86 year old Dan Lee, of Puxico, was driving on Route J in Stoddard County when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and struck a tree.

Lee was pronounced dead at the scene by Stoddard County Coroner Kenny Pope.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN SENDS METH WITH HIS WATER PAYMENT BILL

A Northeast Arkansas man is facing drug related charges after he reportedly sent drugs along with his water bill payment.

According to the Greene County Sheriff David Carter, the water department recently alerted them that James Hoey had dropped in 7.1 grams of crystal methamphetamine along with his water bill payment.

This led to a search of Hoey’s residence where deputies located 38 more grams of crystal methamphetamine, scales, and other drug paraphernalia.

Carter says Hoey is facing multiple charges including possession of crystal methamphetamine with purpose to deliver and possession of drug paraphernalia.

WHOLE KIDS OUTREACH TO HOST EASTER EGG HUNT AND SPRING FESTIVAL THIS WEEKEND

A Southeast Missouri service organization will be hosting a spring festival this weekend.

The Whole Kids Outreach Easter Egg Hunt and Spring Festival is scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, with the egg hunt beginning at 11 am.

Children who attend will need to bring their own Easter Baskets and there will also be games, prizes, pony rides, and a free lunch.

Whole Kids Outreach is located five miles south of Ellington on Highway 21.

For more information call 573-663- 3257.

FORMER MISSISSIPPI COUNTY SHERIFF INDICTED ON IDENTITY THEFT CHARGES

The former sheriff of Mississippi County in Southeast Missouri has been indicted on identity theft charges.

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that 34 year old Cory Hutcheson, of East Prairie, appeared yesterday in United States District Court following his indictment on eleven felony counts of Identity Theft.

Hutcheson pleaded not guilty to all of the charges and was released on bond.

Officials say that the indictment charges Hutcheson with illegally possessing and transferring the means of identification of others, in this case mobile telephone numbers, without lawful authority, and in connection with the commission of the state felony crime of Forgery.

He faces a maximum punishment of five years’ imprisonment on each count, and a maximum fine of up to $250,000.

FOUR ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO SEARCH WARRANT IN SHANNON COUNTY

Four people have been taken into custody following the execution of a search warrant in Shannon County.

According to authorities, on March 18th, the South-Central Drug Task Force, along with multiple area agencies, executed a search warrant for illegal narcotics at the residence of Ricky Sanders in the Birch Tree area.

Approximately one and a quarter pounds of suspected methamphetamine were seized along with multiple firearms, drug paraphernalia, and materials used to weigh and package items for distribution.

Four people were arrested and charged with trafficking drugs 1st degree, Ricky Sanders, of Birch Tree and Charissa Kelly, of Mountain View, along with Matthew Bates and Jozy Bates, both of Alton.

STATE OFFICIALS STRESS IMPORTANCE OF BUCKLING CHILDREN IN AGE APPROPRIATE SAFETY SEAT

State officials are urging parents to remember to buckle their children in an age appropriate safety seat.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation and Department of Health and Senior Services, car crashes are a leading cause of death for children one to 13 years old.

In 2016, 18 children less than eight years of age were killed and 47 suffered serious injuries in motor vehicle crashes in Missouri. Twenty-nine percent of the children killed were not restrained in a car seat or safety belt. Motor vehicle crashes were also responsible for 8 maternal deaths that year in Missouri.

MoDHSS Director, Dr. Randall Williams says that everyone, including pregnant women and children, should use safety belts or car seats every time they ride in a motor vehicle.

You can find out more information about child passenger safety at saveMOlives.com.

Tuesday March 20, 2018

STRING OF BREAK-INS HITS BUSINESSES IN DEXTER

Multiple businesses have been broken into recently in a Southeast Missouri community.

According to authorities, at least 10 businesses in the Dexter area have been broken into in the past month.

An investigation into the break-ins is underway and anyone who has information about the incidents is asked to contact the Dexter Police Department.

FREE MAMMOGRAMS TO BE OFFERED NEXT WEEK IN THREE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COMMUNITIES

Free mammograms will be offered next week in three Southeast Missouri communities.

Saint Francis Healthcare System is offering the private, quick screenings for women with no health insurance at the Bollinger County Health Center, in Marble Hill, from 1 to 5 pm on March 27th.

Mammograms will also be offered at the Iron County Health Department, in Ironton, from 8 am to noon and 1 pm to 5 pm on March 28th and at Piedmont Physician Associates from 8 am to noon on March 29th.

NEW PRINCIPAL HIRED FOR POPLAR BLUFF KINDERGARTEN CENTER

The Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center will have a new principal starting next school year.

Jessica Gauthier Thurston has been hired to succeed Carol Brotman as the principal of the Kindergarten Center beginning in the 2018/2019 school year.

Thurston is currently a first grade teacher at Eugene Field Elementary.

Attendees must register for the free screenings by calling 573-331-3996.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY DRUG CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff woman is facing multiple felony drug charges following her arrest Monday night in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 45 year old Terri Spradling was taken into custody at around 7:45 pm last night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine, hydrocodone, clonazepam, and diazepam.

Spradling is also facing charges of possession of marijuana – 10 grams or less, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

POPLAR BLUFF TEACHER NAMED ADVISOR OF THE YEAR BY MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF STUDENT COUNCILS

A Poplar Bluff teacher was recently awarded an honor by a statewide organization.

Math instructor Hope Conover was named the advisor of the year for the Missouri Association of Student Councils earlier this month during the organization's 70th annual state convention in Lebanon.

Conover is a Senior High teacher of 13 years and has advised the Poplar Bluff student life organization, in addition to student councils throughout Missouri, over the past several years.

She also served multiple years as advisor of the Fulton Summer Leadership Workshop, a weeklong camp that brings together several hundred Missouri student leaders at William Woods University.

10TH ANNUAL CAROLINE PERKINS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER SCHEDULED FOR THIS MONTH

The 10th Annual Caroline Perkins Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser has been scheduled for later this month.

The event will be held from 6 am to 6 pm on Friday, March 30th, and 6 am to noon on Saturday, March 31st at the Old Lone Hill School Building at the end of Highway F off Highway 160.

There will be a large multi-family indoor yard sale as well as a bake sale and a raffle for a homemade quilt.

All proceeds from the event go to fund the Caroline Perkins Memorial Scholarship.

Monday March 19, 2018

TEENAGER HIT AND KILLED BY A VEHICLE IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

A Cardwell teenager has died after being hit by a vehicle in Dunklin County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred at around 8:20 pm Friday night on Missouri Highway 164 near Arbyrd.

Officials say that a vehicle was attempting to pass another vehicle when they struck a 14 year old male in the roadway.

The teen was pronounced dead at the scene by Dunklin County Coroner James Powell.

INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ONE ARREST IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

An investigation in Northeast Arkansas has led to the arrest of a Bono man on multiple charges.

According to the Marmaduke Police Department, last Monday officers were notified of an alarm call at the Marmaduke Family Pharmacy and later found that the pharmacy had been broken in to.

As a part of an investigation in the incident, Christopher Shawn Gower, of Bono, was arrested for commercial burglary and theft of property.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information in connection to the case is asked to contact the Marmaduke Police Department at 870-597-2020.   

MAN EJECTED FROM VEHICLE IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR BLOOMFIELD

A Dexter man was seriously injured Friday afternoon in a single vehicle wreck in Stoddard County.

According to authorities, 21 year old Michael Layton was driving on Highway 25, near Bloomfield, when his car ran off the left side of the roadway and began to overturn.

Layton, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected from the vehicle during the wreck. He suffered serious injuries and was flown to an area hospital.

EAST PRAIRIE POLICE ASKING FOR HELP IN LOCATING MAN WITH MULTIPLE OUTSTANDING WARRANTS

Authorities in East Prairie are asking for the public’s help in locating a man who has multiple outstanding warrants for his arrest.

According to the East Prairie Police Department, they are trying to find Eli McCutchen. In addition to the warrants, McCutchen has also allegedly threatened physical injury to the mother of his children.

Anyone who sees McCutchen is advised not to approach him because he has threatened to harm anyone including Law Enforcement that comes in contact with him.

FOUR INJURED AFTER VEHICLE STRIKES BUILDING NEAR PORTAGEVILLE

A vehicle ran into a building last week in Pemiscot County, resulting in four injuries.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred at approximately 4:40 pm Friday afternoon, around one mile south of Portageville.

A vehicle, driven by 54 year old Terry Walker, of Pascola, ran off of Route T and struck a building.

A 34 year old passenger in the vehicle was seriously injured in the wreck, while Walker and two other passengers suffered moderate or minor injuries. They were all taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

TWO ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANTS IN STODDARD COUNTY

Two people have been taken into custody in Stoddard County on controlled substance warrants.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 38 year old Terri Bunch, of Puxico, and 27 year old Cory Janson, of Dexter were each recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.

Bunch’s bond was set at $7,500, while Janson’s was set at $5,000 and officials say they both remained in jail as of this morning.

We have a picture of McCutchen available on our Facebook page.

If you have information on his whereabouts, contact the East Prairie Police Department at 573-649-3511 or your local Law Enforcement Agency.

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THROUGH MID JUNE BEGINNING TODAY

Route N in Dunklin County will be closed through mid-June beginning today as contractor crews perform a bridge replacement. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway to be closed is located between County Road 629 and County Road 632 in Dunklin County.

Weather permitting, the bridge is scheduled to re-open at 6 am on Friday, June 15th.

Friday, March 16, 2018

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING WRECK IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Crews were on the scene of a fiery wreck Thursday afternoon in Northeast Arkansas that resulted in one fatality. 

According to the Arkansas State Police, the wreck occurred shortly before 1 pm on US Highway 67 in the Pocahontas area. 

A vehicle crossed the center line of the highway and struck the left front of another vehicle. The second vehicle then crossed over into the southbound lane and struck a third vehicle. Officials say that after that impact, the second and third vehicles caught fire and burnt.  

The driver of the second vehicle was killed in the wreck. Their identity has not been released. The drivers of the first and third vehicles were both injured and taken to area hospitals. 

PEDESTRIAN HIT BY VEHICLE ON ROUTE KK IN BUTLER COUNTY

A 24 year old Wappapello woman was taken to an area hospital last night after being hit by a vehicle in Butler County. 

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that shortly after 9 pm last night the vehicle struck a pedestrian walking in the westbound lane of Route KK. 

The incident occurred around 10 miles north of Poplar Bluff. 

The pedestrian was taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital with moderate injuries. 

DAVE SIEVERS NAMED AS NEW POPLAR BLUFF FOOTBALL HEAD COACH

Long time assistant coach Dave Sievers has been named the new head coach of the Poplar Bluff Mules football team. 

KWOC News caught up with Sievers on Thursday after his hire was approved by the Poplar Bluff Board of Education. 

“On Thursday night I was approved by the Poplar Bluff Board of Education to be the next head football coach of the Poplar Bluff Mules and I'm really excited about the opportunity. My football background is like a lot of other peoples, some high school and college football, one year as kind of a grad assistant after my senior year at SEMO, 30 years as an assistant at Poplar Bluff. I’ve worked with some really great coaches, nine different staffs, eight different head coaches over the years, and just feel very blessed to have been a part of such a successful program over the years. A lot of people have asked what we plan on doing and it's pretty simple we're going to try and keep doing what we've been doing.

We've been very successful the last three year stretch for the mules has been probably the three best consecutive years, two eight and ones and a perfect season and you know the proverbial we're not going to try and fix what's not broken. There's a few little changes were going to make there's, some different things we’re going to implement as far as summer programs and summer workouts. We’re going to try and do a little bit more team building stuff, try to be a little bit more involved with the community but for the most part hopefully the product you see on the field is going to be we've had on the field for the last few years because we've been very successful. Coach Barousse is probably the best technician x’s and o’s guy I've ever worked for.

He's done a fantastic job getting the program built back up. We had kind of fallen on some hard times there for a few years and the work that he's done here is just amazing and I just tell people I'm going to do my best to keep the train on the tracks because you know coach has got the program rolling right now and the staff is staying together for the most part and you know we're going to maybe make a few changes. Move a few people around maybe but for the most part things are going to be what they've always been the last few years, cause like I said Coach Barousse is a fantastic head coach and I feel really fortunate to have been able to work for him all these years. I would be remiss if I did not thank the Board of Education and the committee Coach Keith and the committee that decided to give me the opportunity to run the show.

You know I've had a lot of people that I've worked for and worked with over the years that have wished me well and you know I appreciate the fact that they have trusted me to run the program. I feel very honored and blessed that they've given me this opportunity.”

SIKESTON BOYS BASKETBALL TO PLAY IN STATE SEMIFINALS TODAY

One more southeast Missouri team is in contention for a state basketball title and is scheduled to play today. 

The Sikeston boys basketball team will play in the Class 4 state semifinal this evening against Grandview High School. The battle of the Bulldogs will tip off at 6 pm at JQH arena in Springfield. 

Should Sikeston win tonight, they will advance to the state championship game tomorrow night at 8:10 pm versus either Jennings or Raytown South. 

A loss tonight will put the bulldogs in the 3rd place game at 12:50 pm on Saturday.  

REPORTS OF COUNTERFEIT $50 BILLS CIRCULATING IN POPLAR BLUFF

Area businesses should be on the lookout for possible counterfeit money. 

According to the Greater Poplar Bluff area Chamber of Commerce, a number of counterfeit $50 bills have been circulating throughout the community this week.

If you come across one of these counterfeit bills, you should contact your local law enforcement agency. 

SILVA MAN ARRESTED ON METHAMPHETAMINE AND PARAPHERNALIA CHARGES IN WAYNE COUNTY

Authorities in Wayne County arrested a Silva man Thursday afternoon on a felony drug charge. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Carl Guess was taken into custody shortly after 2 pm Thursday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. 

Guess was also arrested on a misdemeanor charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. 

Thursday March 15, 2018

DONIPHAN MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN RIPLEY COUNTY

A Doniphan man was taken into custody last night on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Jeffery Davis was arrested shortly after 11 pm Wednesday in Ripley County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

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

INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY FOLLOWING SHOOTING IN LILBOURN

An investigation is underway following an alleged shooting yesterday in Lilbourn. 

The victim was reportedly shot in the leg and taken to an area hospital. 

No information was available on if any arrests have been made. 

As a precaution, the Lilbourn Elementary School was placed on lockdown for a brief period of time yesterday. 

POPLAR BLUFF BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT

The Poplar Bluff Board of Education will be holding their regularly scheduled monthly meeting tonight. 

School officials say that the meeting is set to begin at 7 pm. 

The meeting will be held at the Poplar Bluff R-1 School District Administrative Building. 

KENNETT TEENAGER ARRESTED ON SEXUAL ABUSE AND CHILD MOLESTATION CHARGES

Kennett Police have arrested an area teenager on a sexual abuse charge. 

According to the Kennett Police Department, earlier this week officers were contacted in reference to a sexual assault.

After further investigation, officers arrested a 17 year old Kennett resident for sexual abuse and 2nd degree child molestation.

Officials say the teen was held in the Dunklin County Justice Center pending the filing of formal charges by the Dunklin County Prosecutor’s office.

PUXICO MAN FACING MULTIPLE CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGES OUT OF STODDARD COUNTY

Authorities in Stoddard County arrested a Puxico man Wednesday night on multiple controlled substance charges. 

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 47 year old Douglas Woolard was taken into custody shortly before 10:30 pm last night on a charge of felony possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. 

Woolard is also reportedly facing a charge of possession of a controlled substance - phentermine hydrochloride. 

LAW ENFORCEMENT STATEWIDE TO PARTICIPATE IN TEEN SEAT BELT MOBILIZATION BEGINNING TODAY

Law enforcement across the state of Missouri are beginning an aggressive youth seat belt mobilization today to crack down on Missouri’s seat belt law violators and to reduce highway fatalities.

The mobilization is scheduled to continue through the end of the month and Sikeston Police Chief Mike Williams tells KWOC News that local motorists should be prepared for stepped up seat belt enforcement. 

Officials say that only 70 percent of Missouri teens wear their seat belts when driving or riding in a motor vehicle. Eight out of ten teen vehicle drivers and passengers killed in traffic crashes are unbuckled.
 

EARTHQUAKE SHAKES SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

An earthquake shook parts of Southeast Missouri Wednesday morning. 

According to the United States Geological Survey, a 2.7 magnitude earthquake was recorded at 11:54 AM Wednesday morning a little over 10 miles south of Greenville. 

Officials say the earthquake had a depth of one and a half miles.
 

Wednesday March 14, 2018

ONE DEAD AFTER GARBAGE TRUCK WAS HIT BY A TRAIN IN STODDARD COUNTY

An area man has died from injuries he received in an incident Tuesday morning.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 50 year old Kenneth Simpson, of Poplar Bluff, was driving a garbage truck on Zimmerman Lane in Stoddard County when he failed to yield for a train and was struck by the train.

Simpson was transported to a Dexter hospital where he was pronounced dead.

MISSISSIPPI MAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING WRECK IN SCOTT COUNTY

A Mississippi man has been taken into custody on multiple felony charges following a wreck in Scott County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 18 year old Kodie Davidson, of Meridian, Mississippi, was driving a vehicle that struck a utility pole in the Sikeston area Tuesday morning. A passenger in the vehicle suffered minor injuries and was taken to an area hospital.

Shortly following the wreck, Davidson was arrested on felony charges of delivery of a controlled substance – marijuana, resisting arrest by fleeing, and leaving the scene of an accident.

CARTER COUNTY AUTHORITIES TO HOLD CHURCH SECURITY AWARENESS TRAINING

Authorities in Carter County will be holding a security training session this weekend for area faith based staff members or security personnel.

The Carter County Sheriff’s Office will be presenting Church Security Awareness Training beginning at 9 am on Saturday, March 17th.

The session will be held at the First Baptist Church Hoagland Youth Center in Van Buren.

The training will include topics such as threat recognition and proactive prevention.

GREENVILLE WOMAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Greenville woman has died following a single vehicle wreck Tuesday afternoon in Wayne County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 58 year old Terry Scowden was driving on Route D at around 4 pm when her vehicle travelled off the left side of the highway and struck multiple trees.

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

NO FOUL PLAY SUSPECTED IN FATAL SIKESTON HOUSE FIRE

Authorities say that no foul play is suspected following a fatal house fire Tuesday morning in Sikeston.

Lieutenant Austin Henley with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC News that crews responded to a structure fire on Andrea Street shortly after 2 am Tuesday morning.

When fire crews arrived they found the residence had fire coming from the roof area. After making entry, firefighters found one person deceased in a bedroom of the residence. The deceased has been identified as 63 year old Dennis Mooneyhan.

According to investigators, the fire appeared to have started in the victim’s bedroom. Lieutenant Henley says that no foul play is suspected, but the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATOR GIVEN LEADERSHIP AWARD DURING RECENT CONFERENCE

A Poplar Bluff administrator received statewide recognition at a conference held earlier this month.

Candace Warren, who is serving her first year as Junior High principal, was one of two educators given the outstanding instructional leadership award during the Learning Forward Missouri conference held at Lake Ozark.

In Warren’s nomination letter, Senior High Instructional Coach Stephanie Kuper says that Warren pioneered some of the district’s current professional development opportunities, including the summer learning institute for all district staff members.

Warren says that everything she does is to try to help improve the building culture for staff and students.

Tuesday, March 13, 2018

ENDANGERED SILVER ADVISORY CANCELLED

An Endangered Silver Advisory that was recently issued for a man last seen in the Poplar Bluff area has been cancelled. 

According to the Crestwood Police Department, the advisory for 77 year old David Wills was cancelled Monday afternoon. 

Officials say he that he had returned home safely. No further details about the incident were released. 

OVER 2,600 JARS OF PEANUT BUTTER COLLECTED FOR MULE PACKS PROGRAM

Over 2000 jars of peanut butter were collected last month for the Mule Packs program in Poplar Bluff. 

According to food service officials, a total of 2,638 jars of peanut butter plus hundreds of jars of jelly and boxes of crackers were collected from dozens of businesses and organizations throughout the month of February.

The peanut butter will be used to help fill Mule Packs, which are distributed bi-monthly to around 150 families in need. The #PB4PB drive was Bright Future's most successful campaign to date, quintupling the relief organization's goal of 500.

TWO FLOWN TO AREA HOSPITAL FOLLOWING STODDARD COUNTY WRECK

A wreck Monday evening in Stoddard County left two people with serious injuries. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 74 year old Albert Garner, of Malden, was driving on Highway 25 near Dexter when his vehicle crossed the center line and entered the path of another vehicle. 

Garner and the driver of the second vehicle both suffered serious injuries in the wreck and were flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital. 

MAN FACING MULTIPLE FELONY DRUG CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST IN STODDARD COUNTY

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested a Sikeston man on multiple felony charges. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Aaron Brown was taken into custody Monday afternoon on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance - hydrocodone, and possession of a controlled substance – diazepam. 

Brown was also arrested on charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana. 

After the arrest, Brown was held at the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office. 

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY METH CHARGE

A Dexter man was taken into custody Monday morning in Butler County on a felony drug charge. 

According to authorities, 40 year old Shawn Lambert was arrested at around 10:30 am on a charge of felony possession of methamphetamine. 

He is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. 

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

EDGE RUT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route M in Butler County will be reduced today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform edge rut repairs.

According to MoDOT, the section of Route M to be reduced is located from Route 67 to County Road 456.

Work is scheduled to be performed from 7 am to 4:30 pm.

INTERSTATE REPAIRS UNDERWAY IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Northbound I-155 in Pemiscot County will be reduced with a 14-foot width restriction through early next month as contractor crews perform pavement repairs. 

According to MoDOT, the work zone is located from Route D to the I-55 interchange.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 am to 6 pm daily, through Saturday, April 7th.

Monday March 12, 2018

NEELYVILLE CELEBRATES FIRST STATE BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

Neelyville is celebrating its first state basketball title.

The Lady Tigers defeated the Mid-Buchanan Lady Dragons 70 to 51 Friday in the Class 2 Girls State Championship game in Springfield.

The Lady Tigers will receive a police escort into town at 5:30 pm tonight followed by a Welcome Back celebration at 6 pm in the Neelyville High School gym. Dinner and state championship shirts will be available for purchase at the event.

Neelyville isn’t the only Southeast Missouri team claiming a state championship, as the Eminence Redwings won the Class 1 Boys State Championship with a 79 to 72 win over Walnut Grove.

Two other Southeast Missouri boys’ teams, Hayti and Charleston, lost in the Class 2 and Class 3 championship games, respectively.

In Class 4, Sikeston has returned to the State Semi-Finals after their 76-50 win over St. Mary’s on Saturday. Sikeston is scheduled to play Grandview this Friday.

OVER FIFTY POUNDS OF METHAMPHETAMINE SEIZED IN KENNETT

Multiple arrests were made last week following the largest single seizure of methamphetamine in the history of the Kennett Police Department.

Kennett police officials tell KWOC News that on Thursday a major covert operation in Kennett successfully concluded with officers seizing approximately fifty-four pounds of methamphetamine and a large amount of U.S. currency.

Multiple arrests were made, however the investigation is still ongoing and more arrests are expected.

Officers with the Kennett Police Department, the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Department, and the Caruthersville Police Department assisted the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Drug Enforcement Administration during the investigation.

TWO FLOWN TO AREA HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two Poplar Bluff residents were flown to an area hospital following a wreck early Friday morning in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred at the intersection of Henry and Marshall Street at around 1:20 am Friday morning when a vehicle failed to stop at a stop sign and struck an embankment.

Two passengers in the vehicle, 39 year old Roy Lacey and 37 year old Brandi Eads, were seriously injured in the wreck and flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

No injuries were listed for the driver of the vehicle.

PIPE REPLACEMENT COULD CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route 53 in Butler County will be reduced over two days as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform a pipe replacement.

According to MoDot, work is scheduled to be performed both today and tomorrow from 8:30 am to 3 pm.

The work zone will be located between County Roads 329 and 327.

SUSPECTS AT LARGE IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING IN SIKESTON

Sikeston police officials say that suspects are being sought in connection to a shooting last week.

Sergeant Jon Broom with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC News that at around 8 pm on Thursday, March 8th, officers responded to a business near the corner of Kingshighway and Center Street in reference to multiple reports of gunfire.

Three vehicles parked near the business had been extensively damaged, and two of those vehicles were occupied when they were hit by the gunfire. Broom says the first car had been struck by no less than three bullets, the second vehicle was hit more than 10 times and the third vehicle was struck about four times.

Witnesses said a white four door car believed to be a Chevrolet Impala stopped and four black males wearing dark clothing and ski masks jumped out and began firing in the direction of the vehicles parked near the business.

Investigators believe this shooting is connected to other shootings that have occurred within the Sikeston, Charleston, and Cape Girardeau communities within the last few weeks.

The suspects remain at large and anyone who has information regarding these incidents is asked to contact the Sikeston DPS at 573-471-4711.

NEW MADRID COUNTY WRECK LEAVES MALDEN WOMAN WITH SERIOUS INJURIES

A wreck in New Madrid County on Sunday resulted in injuries for two Malden residents.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 69 year old Benjamin Manes was driving on Route D, near Malden, Sunday afternoon when his vehicle ran off the side of the road, struck a ditch, and overturned.

A passenger in the vehicle, 64 year old Brenda Manes, suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Poplar Bluff hospital. The driver received moderate injuries in the wreck.

MAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON STATUTORY RAPE WARRANT

Authorities in Stoddard County say that a St. Peters man has been taken into custody on a warrant for multiple counts of statutory rape.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 25 year old Joseph Woodrow Wilson was recently arrested on a warrant for three counts of 2nd degree statutory rape.

Wilson’s bond has been set at $12,500.

EDGE RUT REPAIRS SET TO BEGIN TODAY ON ROUTE 142 IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route 142 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane today and tomorrow as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform edge rut repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Cravens Road to Route 158.

Weather permitting, work will performed from 7 am to 4:30 pm each day.

Friday, March 9, 2018

NEELYVILLE AND HAYTI ADVANCE TO STATE CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES

Two Southeast Missouri basketball teams will be playing for state championships today. 

The Neelyville Lady Tigers defeated Skyline 63-57 in the Class 2 girls state semi-final on Thursday. The Lady Tigers will be playing the Mid-Buchanan Lady Dragons at 2:40 this afternoon in the Class 2 championship game which you can hear live on Today’s Talk KWOC. 

On the boys side, Hayti beat Purdy 63-46 in the Class 2 boys state semi-final last night. Hayti will take on Van-Far High School this afternoon at 4:30 pm in the Class 2 final. 

Two other boys basketball teams from Southeast Missouri will be playing semi-final games today. Eminence will be taking on Charmois in the Class 1 State Semi-final and Charleston will face Mountain Grove in the Class 3 Semi-final. Both games are scheduled to start at 6:20 pm. 

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME BEGINS THIS WEEKEND

It is once again time for your clocks to spring forward. 

Daylight Saving Time will begin at 2 am Sunday morning. Remember to set your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed Saturday night. It is also a good time to remember to replace the batteries in your smoke detectors. 

Daylight Saving Time is scheduled to come to an end on Sunday, November 4th.  

FIVE YEAR OLD CHILD INJURED BY VEHICLE IN MADISON COUNTY

A child was injured during an incident Thursday morning in Madison County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle had swerved to miss a five year old child on Madison County Route OO, however the child made contact with the rear of the vehicle. 

The child suffered minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital. 

THREE ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY

Three people were taken into custody early this morning in Butler County on a felony drug charge. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 47 year old William Altman, 43 year old Christy Price, and 37 year old Thomas Graham, all of Poplar Bluff, were each arrested at around 12:20 am this morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. 

Officials say that Graham is also facing a felony charge of unlawful use of a weapon. 

THIS WEEK IS SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK IN MISSOURI

Missouri residents are being encouraged to learn about severe weather and how to protect themselves during Missouri Severe Weather Awareness Week this week. 

Today is NOAA Weather Radio day. 

NOAA Weather Radio provides continuous broadcasts of the latest weather information from your local National Weather Service Office. A NOAA Weather Radio is one of the few devices available that can warn you of impending severe weather 24-hours a day. 

During severe weather, NWS warnings will interrupt the routine weather broadcast. If your radio is set to alert mode, it will set off an alarm, and broadcast the message.

There are many other ways to receive NWS warnings including our radio station, your television or cell phone, and the internet. 

The Wireless Emergency Alert System is available in newer cell phones. There is nothing you need to download. The cellular carriers receive NWS warnings, and then send select warnings to the cell towers that cover the area in the warning. 

If you are within the coverage area of a tower that receives the warning, your cell phone will emit a sound, and the message will appear on your screen.

CLARKTON RESIDENTS LOSE WATER FOR A PERIOD OF TIME DUE TO WATER MAIN LEAK

Some Dunklin County residents were without water yesterday evening. 

According to a post on the Clarkton Fire and Rescue Facebook page, the water was going to be turned off in Clarkton at around 6 pm last night due to a water main leak. 

The water was going to be off for approximately three to four hours and as a precaution, a boil water order is in effect until further notice. 

POPLAR BLUFF PARKS DEPARTMENT 2018 RECREATION GUIDE IS NOW AVAILABLE

The 2018 Poplar Bluff Parks Department Recreation Guide is now available. 

Poplar Bluff Parks Department director Clark Allen says that the guide lists sports related activities to be offered in the community and the date registration begins for each event. 

The guide can be obtained at the Parks Department office at 430 North Second Street and online at poplarbluff-mo.gov. 

For more information, contact the Parks Department at 686-8645.

MOTORISTS ASKED TO REPORT POTHOLES ON MISSOURI ROADWAYS

Missouri motorists are cautioned to be on the lookout for potholes. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, potholes form when temperatures warm up during the day but continue to be cold at night. 

Moisture from winter rain and snow constantly seeps into the cracks and joints of the roadway. When the temperatures drop at night, that water freezes and expands the pavement, which causes it to crack and bulge. 

As cars and trucks drive over those cracks, the pressure causes chunks of pavement to pop out, and potholes are formed.

Throughout March, maintenance crews will be repairing potholes to keep roads as safe and smooth as possible. The public is asked to report potholes so MoDOT maintenance crews can assess the damage and complete the needed repairs.

Motorists can report the location of potholes on state maintained roads by calling 1-888-ASK-MODOT or by going online to modot.org.

Thursday, March 8, 2018

ONE KILLED IN RIPLEY COUNTY WRECK

A Naylor woman has died following a single vehicle wreck in Ripley County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 45 year old Katina Taylor was driving on Missouri Highway 142 Wednesday afternoon when her vehicle ran off the roadway and overturned. 

Taylor was allegedly not wearing a safety device and was ejected during the wreck. 

She was later pronounced dead by Ripley County Coroner Mike Jackson.

WOMAN DIES AFTER HITTING TREE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

One person is dead following a single vehicle wreck in Northeast Arkansas. 

According to the Arkansas State Police, a vehicle hit a tree in the Paragould area Wednesday morning at around 6:14 am. 

The driver of the vehicle, 57 year old Deronda Predeau Wallis, of Jonesboro, was killed in the wreck. 

JUVENILE ARRESTED FOR THREATS AT SIKESTON JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL

A juvenile has been taken into custody in Sikeston after alleged threats to harm other students. 

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, the school resource officer assigned to Sikeston Jr. High recently learned of threats from a 14 year old student to harm other students at the school.

Following an interview, the student was arrested and later transported to the Mississippi County juvenile detention. 

Officials say that a search of the home from the school resource officer and a detective did not reveal any weapons or plans of actually carrying out the threats.

NEELYVILLE AND HAYTI TO BOTH PLAY IN STATE SEMIFINALS TODAY

Two Southeast Missouri basketball teams will be playing in state semifinals today. 

The Neelyville Lady Tigers will be taking on the Skyline Lady tigers at 3:30 pm this afternoon in the girls Class 2 semifinal. The game will be broadcast on Today’s Talk KWOC. 

On the boys side, the Hayti Indians will be playing in the boys Class 2 semifinal tonight at 6:50 pm against the Purdy Eagles. 

The Poplar Bluff Mules boys basketball team was eliminated from the Class 5 state tournament last night following a 66-64 loss to Hazelwood Central. 

KENNETT RESIDENT ATTEMPTS TO FLEE FROM POLICE AFTER BEING FOUND WITH DEFACED FIREARM

A Kennett resident was taken into custody earlier this week after allegedly attempting to flee from police. 

Officials with the Kennett Police Department tell KWOC News that on Monday night, officers conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Ninth and Jackson Streets. During the stop, they located a firearm that had been defaced inside the vehicle.

The driver of the vehicle, 33 year old Hershey Nelson, of Kennett, then fled the scene on foot and was later apprehended after a lengthy foot chase. Officials say Nelson was arrested for possession of a defaced firearm, felon in possession of a firearm, and resisting arrest.

Following the arrest, Nelson was held in the Dunklin County Justice Center. 

THIS WEEK IS SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK IN MISSOURI

Missouri residents are being encouraged to learn about severe weather and how to protect themselves during Missouri Severe Weather Awareness Week this week. 

Today, Missourian’s should focus on severe thunderstorm safety. 

According to the National Weather Service, when a severe thunderstorm threatens, it is often best to follow the same safety rules you follow if a tornado threatens. 

Go to a basement if available. If not, go to the lowest level of the building and move to a small interior room or hallway. Stay away from doors and windows. If time permits, move your vehicle into a garage or carport to help prevent damage. Avoid traveling in a severe thunderstorm – delay your travel plans until the storms pass or get off the road and seek shelter in a building.

Weather officials also say that there is really no safe place to go if you are outdoors when it is lightning. You must move to a building or an enclosed vehicle.

POPLAR BLUFF CHURCH STEEPLE BLOWN DOWN  

A Poplar Bluff church could be needing a new steeple. 

According to a post on the Westwood Baptist Church’s Facebook page, the church’s steeple was blown down earlier this week. 

According to the National Weather Service, wind gusts estimated as high as 49 miles per hour occurred Tuesday afternoon in Poplar Bluff. 

POPLAR BLUFF BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK

The Poplar Bluff Board of Education will be holding their regularly scheduled monthly meeting next week. 

School officials say that the meeting is set to begin at 7 pm on Thursday, March 15th. 

The meeting will be held at the Poplar Bluff R-1 School District Administrative Building. 

Wednesday, March 7, 2018

THIS WEEK IS SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK IN MISSOURI

Missouri residents are being encouraged to learn about severe weather and how to protect themselves during Missouri Severe Weather Awareness Week this week. 

Today, Missourian’s should focus on flood and flash flood safety. 

According to the National Weather Service, motorists should never drive into a flooded area and you should be especially cautious at night when darkness will often hide flood dangers. 

If you live in a flood prone area, have a plan of action in case flooding strikes. Stay tuned to the latest weather developments and be ready to move quickly, including abandoning personal property and moving to higher ground.

Camping near small rivers in Missouri can also be very dangerous. Remember that heavy rain upstream may lead to serious flooding at your location with little or no warning. Avoid camping along small rivers or streams when heavy rain is in the forecast anywhere in the stream basin.

GOVERNOR GREITENS AND CONGRESSMAN SMITH TO ATTEND ANNOUNCEMENT OF ALUMINUM SMELTER OPENING

Multiple public officials will be in attendance Friday for the formal announcement of an aluminum smelter opening in New Madrid County. 

Governor Eric Greitens, Congressman Jason Smith, and Missouri Representative Don Rone, among others will be at the St. Jude Industrial Park at 2 pm on Friday for the announcement. 

Rone says that Magnitude 7 Metals is currently hiring staff for the new facility, which could total close to 400 new jobs for the area. The new smelter is located at the former Noranda Aluminum smelter. 

OVER 50 CASES OF HEPATITIS A REPORTED BY BUTLER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Health officials are continuing to see an increase in reported Hepatitis A cases in Butler County. 

According to the Butler County Health Department, as of March 2nd, 51 cases of Hepatitis A have been reported with 59 percent of the cases requiring hospitalization. 

Officials say that the majority of cases have been in people who use drugs and/or their close personal contacts.

Anyone who has been potentially exposed to an individual experiencing Hepatitis A signs or symptoms is asked to call or visit the Butler County Health Department. 

THREE ARRESTED ON DRUG RELATED CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY

Three Poplar Bluff residents were arrested Tuesday in Butler County on a felony drug charge. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 28 year old Brittany Pellaccio, 27 year old Artis Larue, and a 17 year old teenage girl, were each arrested at around 7:30 pm Tuesday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Following their arrest, all three were held at the Butler County Jail. 

ROMBAUER CEMETERY ANNUAL BOARD MEETING TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND

The annual board meeting of the Rombauer Cemetery has been scheduled for this weekend. 

The meeting will be held at 1 pm Saturday at the Rombauer Baptist Church fellowship hall. Anyone interested in maintaining the cemetery should attend the meeting. 

For more information, call 785-1514.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR NAMED NATIONAL MERIT PROGRAM FINALIST

A Poplar Bluff High School senior has been named a National Merit Program finalist. 

School officials say that Adeesh Mishra has advanced in the National Merit Scholarship Program, earning him a 50 percent chance of receiving a scholarship through the organization. 

Mishra was among the highest scoring entrants on the preliminary SAT in Missouri, scoring a 1,480 out of 1,520 points, only missing three questions overall.

Officials say that about 7,500 or half of the finalists will receive a National Merit Scholarship. There are also corporate and college-sponsored scholarships available to the successful students.

Upon graduating in May, Mishra says he plans to enter a pre-medical degree program, possibly double majoring in business and biology.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR CULVERT PIPE REPLACEMENT

Route 153 in New Madrid County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert pipe under the roadway. 

This section of roadway to be closed is located from Route B to County Road 248.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 am to 5 pm.

Tuesday March 6, 2018

NEELYVILLE LADY TIGERS HOSTING MEET AND GREET TONIGHT AHEAD OF THEIR STATE SEMIFINAL MATCH THIS WEEK

The Neelyville Lady Tigers Basketball team will be hosting a meet and greet tonight before they travel to Springfield for the state championships.

The meet and greet is scheduled for 6 to 7:30 pm at the Neelyville High School Gym. For $5, you can come have a BBQ sandwich, meet and take pictures with the girls, and get autographs before they leave for the State Semi-Finals.

On Thursday, the Neelyville Lady Tigers will be taking on the Skyline Lady Tigers at 3:30 pm in the Class 2 State Semi-Final, which you can hear live on Today’s Talk KWOC.

CHARGES PENDING AGAINST TWO JUVENILES FOLLOWING SCHOOL THREAT

There was an additional police presence at an area school Monday following a reported threat.

According to the Bloomfield Department of Public Safety, on Sunday officers received a report of threats communicated by two students about bringing guns to school.

Both subjects were located and taken into custody without incident. Officials say that charges are pending and officers were on campus Monday for added security.

GAS LINE CAUSES TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF HIGHWAY 53 IN POPLAR BLUFF

Highway 53 in Poplar Bluff was closed for part of Monday after a gas line was struck.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the gas line was struck at Fair and Franklin at approximately 2 pm yesterday. This caused the closure of Highway 53 from Cheshire to South 11th Street.

The road was closed for a few hours while repairs were being made.

TWO INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY, FOLLOWING WRECK IN STODDARD COUNTY

A Puxico man suffered serious injured in a wreck Monday morning in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the accident occurred at around 5:45 am Monday when a vehicle, driven by 58 year old Dennis Burton, crossed the median of Highway 60 and travelled into the path of another vehicle.

Burton was seriously injured in the wreck and transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. The driver of the other vehicle received minor injuries.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT DAMAGES GAS MAIN IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

A traffic accident damaged a gas main Monday in New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when a vehicle was stopped on US Highway 61 to make a left turn and was struck in the rear by another vehicle. The second vehicle then ran off the roadway and struck the gas main.

Three people were injured in the wreck and taken to an area hospital.

Officials with the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that traffic on US Highway 61 from Sikeston to north of Kewanee was shut down while crews were making repairs.

TWO ARRESTED FOR COCAINE IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two Poplar Bluff residents were arrested on a cocaine charge Sunday in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, both 31 year old Lawrence Orum Jr. and 28 year old John Miller, were arrested at around 11:15 pm Sunday night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance - cocaine and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Each man is also facing misdemeanor marijuana and drug paraphernalia charges.  

THIS WEEK IS SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK IN MISSOURI

Missouri residents are being encouraged to learn about severe weather and how to protect themselves during Missouri Severe Weather Awareness Week this week.

Today, Missourian’s should focus on Tornado safety. Missouri’s annual Statewide Tornado Drill will be held today at 10 am.

The number of tornadoes in Missouri for 2017 was 83, a big jump from the 18 in 2016, and well above the average of 34. The most active month was March with 36 followed by May with 28.

If a tornado is in your area, a basement or other underground location is the best shelter. If a basement is not available, move to an all interior small room, or other interior location such as a hallway. Stay away from outside walls, doors, and windows. Try to keep as many walls as you can between you and the wind outside.

Mobile homes should be abandoned in favor of a more substantial structure if threatened by a tornado.

If you are in a vehicle and have a clear path that you can drive in a direction away from the tornado, then do so. As a last resort, you can abandon your vehicle and hide in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head. The best thing to do if severe weather threatens is to not drive. Stay in a safe building until the storms pass.

Monday March 5, 2018

NEELYVILLE GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM MAKES STATE SEMIFINALS

The Neelyville Girls basketball team is returning to the state semi-finals. 

The Lady Tigers defeated Oran Saturday 79-61 at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff. 

On Thursday, the Lady Tigers will be in Springfield, taking on the Skyline Lady Tigers at 3:30 pm in the Class 2 State Semi-Final which you can hear live on Today’s Talk KWOC. 

Neelyville was last in the State Semi-Finals two years ago where they beat New Franklin High School, before losing to Crane High School in the Final.  

On the boy’s side, Eminence, Hayti, and Charleston have all made the State Semi-Finals in Classes 1, 2 and 3, respectively. 

THIS WEEK IS SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK IN MISSOURI

Missouri residents are being encouraged to learn about severe weather and how to protect themselves during Missouri Severe Weather Awareness Week this week. 

As a part of awareness week, Missouri’s annual Statewide Tornado Drill will be held on Tuesday at 10 am. 

Today, Missourian’s should take steps to be prepared in case of severe weather. 

Step one is identifying severe weather hazards that you may face, including severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, damaging wind gusts, large hail, and heavy rain. 

Step two should be setting up a plan for everyone in your home or workplace for what to do in case of severe weather. 

Step three is practicing your plan, such as conducting drills to find strengths and weaknesses in your plan and then making improvements where necessary.

More information can be found online at StormAware.mo.gov. 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED OVER THE WEEKEND ON CHILD MOLESTATION WARRANT

A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody Saturday on a child molestation warrant. 

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 26 year old Geren William Klusmeier was arrested in Stoddard County on a warrant for child molestation 1st degree. 

Following the arrest, he was held in the Stoddard County Jail on a $100,000 warrant. 

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THIS WEEK FOR CULVERT PIPE REPLACEMENT

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

According to MoDOT, the work zone will be located between Route 114 and Route A.                              

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, from 8:30 am to 3 pm daily.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON FELONY METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE

Authorities in Butler County arrested a Poplar Bluff man Friday on a felony meth charge. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 23 year old Jared Lynch was taken into custody Friday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. 

Lynch is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. He was held in the Butler County Jail following the arrest.  

MAN FACING CHARGE OF STATUTORY RAPE OUT OF SIKESTON

An area man is facing multiple felony charges including statutory rape.  

According to Missouri Case Net, a warrant was issued and served last week for Calvin Lewis, of Sikeston, on one felony count of statutory rape or attempted statutory rape 1st degree and two felony counts of statutory sodomy or attempted statutory sodomy.

Lewis’s bond was set at $75,000, cash or surety.  

AREA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE WARNS ABOUT PHONE SCAM

An area electric provider is warning its members about a reported phone scam. 

Black River Electric Cooperative says that scammers generally will call impersonating a co-op employee and will demand immediate payment over the phone via a debit or credit card, and threaten disconnection. Some will instruct the member to purchase a prepaid debit card and call back with the card number.

The Cooperative says that it will not call and demand immediate payment over the phone via a debit or credit card and that you should be cautious and not give out any personal or bank information over the phone.

WEDNESDAY IS THE FINAL DAY TO REGISTER TO VOTE IN THE UPCOMING GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION

The deadline is approaching if you want to vote in next month’s election. 

According to the Missouri Secretary of State’s office, Wednesday, March 7th, is the last day to register to vote in the upcoming municipal election. 

The general municipal Election Day is scheduled for April 3rd. 

More information on how to register to vote is available at the Missouri Secretary of State’s website at sos.mo.gov. 
 

Friday, March 2, 2018

REPRESENTATIVES OF MISSOURI ATTORNEY GENERAL TO SPEAK TO TORNADO VICTIMS TODAY

Representatives of Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley will be in Malden today to speak with victims of this past weekend’s tornado. 

The representatives will be at the Multi-Agency Resource Center from 2 to 8 pm to answer questions and provide guidance on disaster-related assistance to consumers affected by the tornado.

The Resource Center is located at the Malden Community Center. 

Congressman Jason Smith was in Malden and Matthews yesterday to meet with officials and discuss the extent of the damage in their areas.

JUVENILE CHARGED WITH TERRORISTIC THREATNING FOLLOWING POSSIBLE THREAT TO MARMADUKE HIGH SCHOOL

A juvenile is facing a felony charge following a possible threat at a Northeast Arkansas high school. 

Officials with the Marmaduke Police Department say they received a call earlier this week from the administration of Marmaduke High School about a possible threat towards the school.

During the investigation, a male juvenile was taken out of the school and to the Marmaduke Police Department for questioning. The juvenile was later arrested for felony terroristic threatening and taken to the juvenile authorities in Paragould.

Police officials say that the matter is still under investigation. 

LILBOURN WOMAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL AFTER WRECK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

A Lilbourn woman has been flown to an area hospital after being involved in a wreck in New Madrid County. 

According to authorities, 36 year old Michelle Hayes was driving on Highway U yesterday evening when her vehicle ran off the side of the road and overturned. 

Hayes, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected during the wreck and received serious injuries. She was later flown to a Memphis hospital. 

POPLAR BLUFF BOYS BASKETBALL WINS DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP

The Poplar Bluff boys basketball team won their first district championship in almost a decade last night in Cedar Hill. 

The Mules won the Class 5, District 1 championship game over Jackson 58 to 52. This is the Mules first district title since the 2008-09 season. 

The Mules now advance to play in the state sectional next Wednesday at Jefferson College in Hillsboro. They will play the winner of the district 2 final tonight between Hazelwood Central and Hazelwood West. 

The Lady Mules lost their District Championship game last night to Jackson 48 to 32. 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ATV WRECK

A man was seriously injured in an ATV wreck Thursday afternoon in Butler County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, an ATV, driven by 44 year old James Talley, of Poplar Bluff, overturned on County Road 606 and ejected the driver. 

Talley, who reportedly was not wearing a safety device, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody Thursday night on multiple felony charges. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Eldrid Smith was arrested shortly after 7:30 pm on felony charges of tampering with a motor vehicle and leaving the scene of an accident. 

Smith is also facing charges of driving while intoxicated – drugs, possession of marijuana, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. 

KIWANIS CLUB HOLDING 80TH ANNUAL PANCAKE DAY THIS WEEKEND

Pancakes are on the menu this weekend to help out a local group. 

The Kiwanis Club of Poplar Bluff will be holding their 80th Annual Pancake Day from 6 am to 2 pm Saturday at the Poplar Bluff Junior High cafeteria. 

All you can eat pancakes will be available for $5 at the event. They will also be offering sausage and coffee.