Tuesday February 5, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY A VEHICLE 

A Poplar Bluff woman has died after being hit by a vehicle in Butler County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 23 year old Wendy Dumas was struck by an unknown vehicle at around 7:39 pm Monday night. Officials say the vehicle ran off the left side of Missouri Highway 53, struck Dumas, and then left the scene. 

The incident occurred approximately three miles south of Poplar Bluff.  

Dumas was later pronounced dead at an area hospital.

TWO AREA SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO MISS CLASSES THIS WEEK DUE TO ILLNESS 

Students at two Southeast Missouri school districts will be missing some classes this week due to illness.  

Twin Rivers R-10 Superintendent Jeremy Siebert tells KWOC News, that a combined total of over 100 kids and facility missed school yesterday with flu like symptoms. Siebert says that the school district will be closed until Thursday of this week. 

The Portageville School District dismissed classes early yesterday because of illness in the district. Classes in Portageville will also resume on Thursday.

TWO ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGE IN MALDEN 

Two Malden residents have been taken into custody on a controlled substance charge.  

According to the Malden Police Department, on Sunday, officers arrested Richard Brock and Steven Goff, each on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance. 

Both have been transported to the Dunklin County Jail and officials say Brock’s bond has been set at $30,000 while Goff’s bond was set at $25,000.

AREA SCHOOL PUT ON LOCK DOWN BECAUSE OF POLICE CHASE 

An area school was put on lock down yesterday due to a police chase in the area.  

According to a post on the Bernie R-13 Schools Facebook page, the school district was on lock down for a period of time Monday afternoon as a precaution because of a police chase near the town.  

Authorities say the chase started in Qulin and continued from Butler County into Stoddard County before authorities lost the vehicle. 

HEAVY RAINFALL AND FLOODING POSSIBLE THIS WEEK 

Heavy rainfall and flooding will be possible this week in Southeast Missouri.  

According to a Hydrologic Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, several upper air systems will move over the area from Wednesday through Thursday and interact with abundant moisture and a boundary near the Ohio Valley.  

This will likely result in moderate to heavy rainfall across southeast Missouri and a widespread 2 to 4 inches of rain is likely. 

Officials say that the end result will be a risk for considerable flooding in low lying and poor drainage areas. Localized flash flooding cannot be ruled out with some thunderstorms producing heavier rainfall rates.

TWO ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO RASH OF BURGLARIES IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

Authorities say that two people have been arrested in connection to multiple burglaries in Southeast Missouri.  

Over the last two months, members of the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Office, Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office, Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Advance Police Department, Oran Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the United States Postal Service have been investigating a rash of recent burglaries in Bollinger, Scott, and Stoddard Counties. 

According to the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Department, Shawn Yount, of Advance, has been arrested and charged in Bollinger County with six counts of burglary 2nd degree. Yount’s bond was set at $175,000. 

Sidney Scowden of Dexter, was also arrested in reference to the investigation. A warrant for her arrest was issued for six counts of burglary 2nd degree in Bollinger County. Scowden’s bond was set at $75,000. 

Officials say that this is still considered an open and active investigation and Yount is suspected in additional burglaries committed in Bollinger County.

ROAD WORK TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TODAY 

Route E in New Madrid County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a culvert under the roadway. 

The section of roadway to be closed is located between Route D and County Road 646. 

Weather permitting, work will performed from 8 am to 3 pm.

Monday, February 4, 2019

DEXTER WOMAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A single vehicle wreck has claimed the life of a Dexter woman.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 73 year old Verda Allstun was driving on Route ZZ in Stoddard County on Friday when her vehicle ran off the side of the roadway, struck a bridge, and overturned in a ditch.

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

MAN RESCUED FROM WATER NEAR NEW MADRID

A man was rescued from waters near New Madrid on Friday.

Officials with the New Madrid Police Department tell KWOC News that at around 4 pm on Friday dispatch received several 911 calls about someone shot on the levee and a possible shooter on the loose.

When officers arrived, they found one man in the water who was holding onto a piece of driftwood and was disoriented from being in the cold water. A deputy jumped in to the water with a life jacket and brought the man to the bank. It was later found that he had no gunshot wounds but was suffering from hypothermia.

Evidence was collected from in and around a car that was on top of the curb at the boat ramp. The car had several bullet holes, and a gun as well as casings was collected from the scene.

Witnesses gave a description of a man who had fled the scene. The man was later located and willingly went to the police station to give a statement.

The man who was in the water was transported to a local hospital for treatment and officials say he is not cooperating with the investigation.

The investigation is ongoing and officials say criminal charges will be sought against one or both of the men.

ARKANSAS MAN ARRESTED ON MOLESTATION WARRANT

Authorities in Dunklin County have arrested an Arkansas man on a molestation warrant.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 26 year old Dimitri Cavazos, of Manilla, Arkansas, was taken into custody Friday night on a felony warrant out of Shannon County for child molestation.

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

PIGGOTT MAN HIT BY A VEHICLE IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A Piggott man was hit by a vehicle Sunday night in Pemiscot County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 27 year old Christopher Pipp allegedly ran into the path of a vehicle on Interstate 55 at around 7:45 pm Sunday.

Pipp suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Dyersburg, Tennessee hospital.

ONE DEAD, ANOTHER SERIOUSLY INJURED FOLLOWING WRECK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

An Illinois woman has died following an early Saturday morning wreck in New Madrid County.

According to authorities, the crash occurred at around 1:30 am Saturday when a vehicle driven by 40 year old Travis Ford, of Thebes, Illinois, struck the rear of another vehicle on Interstate 55.

A passenger in Ford’s vehicle, 22 year old Tianna Ford, of Anna, Illinois, was pronounced dead at the scene. Travis Ford received serious injuries and was transported to a St. Louis hospital.

TWO WAYNE COUNTY RESIDENTS ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

Two Wayne County residents were arrested Friday evening on drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Jason Radcliff and 39 year old Jane Radcliff, of Lowndes, were each taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

They are also each facing charges of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.

Following the arrests, both were held at the Butler County Jail.

DUDLEY MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

Authorities in Stoddard County say that an area man has been taken into custody on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 26 year old Bradley Mitchell, of Dudley, was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.

Mitchell’s bond was set at $7,500, cash only.

Friday, February 1, 2019

LILBOURN WOMAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

A Lilbourn woman was arrested yesterday evening in New Madrid County on a controlled substance warrant.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Amanda Zimmerman was taken into custody on a felony warrant out of New Madrid County for delivery of a controlled substance.

Following the arrest, Zimmerman was held in the New Madrid County Jail.

NEW THREE RIVERS SPORTS COMPLEX TO OPEN THIS WEEKEND

The opening of the new sports complex on the campus of Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff is set for this weekend.

A ribbon cutting ceremony for the Libla Family Sports Complex has been scheduled for 3 pm on Saturday.

The sports complex is a 60,000-square-foot gymnasium that seats over 3,000 people and is intended to replace the Bess Activity Center as the home of the College’s Raiders and Lady Raiders basketball teams.

The complex is also convertible into a three-court facility suitable for holding practices and regional high school basketball tournaments.

The ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday will be followed by a basketball double-header as both the Lady Raiders and Raiders take on State Fair Community College. The Lady Raiders will tip-off at 5 pm followed by the men’s game at 7 pm.

5TH ANNUAL BADGE OF HONOR BENEFIT RUN SET TO BE HELD IN EARLY APRIL

Registration is ongoing for the 5th Annual Badge of Honor Benefit Run.

The Benefit Run will be held on Saturday, April 6th at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff. The event is scheduled to begin at 9 am.

There will be a 5k, 10k, and Half Marathon and anyone who registers by March 1st will receive an event t-shirt and medal.

For more information, go to www.bohbr.com.

OVER TWENTY POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS QUALIFY TO COMPETE IN NATIONAL BETA COMPETITIONS

Over 20 Poplar Bluff students were recently recognized for qualifying to compete at the National Beta Convention in Oklahoma City.

According to Poplar Bluff School Officials, about 100 R-I students participated in the Missouri Junior and Senior conventions held in December in Springfield. Students that placed in the top five in statewide academic and skill contests are eligible to go on to the National Convention in June.

The students who qualified were recognized by the Poplar Bluff Board of Education during their monthly meeting in January.

PIEDMONT TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING EARLY NEXT MONTH

The city of Piedmont will be hosting a public hearing next week to discuss the city’s submission of a grant application.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, the city is proposing to construct an extension of the city trail system at Handy Park and is proposing to apply for approximately $90,000 in Recreational Trails Program funding.

The hearing will be held at 2 pm on Monday, February 4th at Piedmont City Hall.

For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Bill Kirkpatrick at 573-223-7660.

LEAF PICK UP SCHEDULE TO CONTINUE NEXT WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF

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

According to city officials, leaves will be picked up in Ward 5 from February 4th through the 22nd.

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 January 31, 2019

TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES IN RIPLEY COUNTY 

Two women have been taken into custody in Ripley County on felony drug charges.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 48 year old Julie Meadors, of Doniphan, and 19 year old McKayla Tyler, of Naylor, were arrested Wednesday afternoon on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine and diazepam.  

Each woman is also facing charges of possession of marijuana and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON WARRANT FOR FAILURE TO REGISTER AS A SEX OFFENDER 

Officials in Stoddard County have arrested an area man on a warrant.  

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 38 year old Preston Simpson, of Dexter, was recently arrested on a warrant for failure to register as a sex offender.   

Officials say that no bond has been set and Simpson remained in jail as of this morning.

EAGLE DAYS EVENT CANCELLED 

Even though the Eagle Days Event originally scheduled for this weekend has been cancelled, officials say there will still be opportunities for area residents to possibly see an eagle.  

The Missouri Department of Conservation announced last week that the Eagle Days event scheduled for Friday and Saturday at MINGO National Wildlife Refuge, Duck Creek Conservation Area and Wappapello Lake had been cancelled due to the federal government shutdown. 

Officials with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers say that Wappapello will still be staffing their Eagle Watch stations on Saturday from 9am - 1pm.  

Maps of the self-guided "Eagle route" located on Mingo National Wildlife Refuge and Duck Creek Conservation Area will also be available at the Bill Emerson Memorial Visitor Center.

SEARCH WARRANT LEADS TO PURSUIT IN THE BOOTHEEL 

Authorities in the Missouri bootheel were involved in a pursuit while executing a search warrant earlier this week.  

Steele Chief of Police Billy Joe Stanfield tells KWOC News that on Wednesday his officers along with Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Department, Caruthersville Police, Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, SEMO DTF, and the United States Marshalls executed a federal search warrant and a state issued search warrant in Steele.  

During the course of initiating the search warrants, law enforcement attempted a vehicle stop on a 30 year old male from Steele. The suspect failed to stop for law enforcement and a pursuit was initiated. 

The suspect vehicle was eventually stopped by law enforcement and the driver was apprehended without any further incident. Stanfield says the investigation resulted in the seizure of purported methamphetamine and firearms. 

The suspect was arrested on charges of felony possession of a controlled substance, felon in possession of a firearm, and felony resisting arrest. His name is being withheld pending the filing of formal charges with the prosecuting attorney.

AREA MAN SENTENCED TO A DECADE IN PRISON ON FIREARM CHARGE 

A Southeast Missouri man was sentenced earlier this week on a firearm charge.  

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that 49 year old Terry Thornton, of Marston, was pulled over for a traffic violation in September of 2017. During a search of Thornton’s vehicle, officers discovered a Hi-Point 9 millimeter semi-automatic pistol and several bags of marijuana. 

Officials say Thornton had felony convictions for first-degree robbery, first-degree burglary, and first-degree assault. 

Thornton was sentenced on Tuesday to serve 10 years in federal prison following his guilty plea to being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOST JAZZ FESTIVAL NEXT WEEK 

The Three Rivers College Music Department will be hosting their 28th Annual Jazz Festival next week.  

Jazz performers from schools across Southeast Missouri will be performing live at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center in Poplar Bluff on February 7th and 9th.  

Both nights will feature performances from the Three Rivers College Jazz Band, which will be joined on February 7th by junior high and high school bands from across the region.

The February 9th performance will feature the Southeast Missouri All-District Jazz Band, which consists of the best high school jazz musicians in District 10 of the Missouri Music Educators Association. 

Both shows will begin at 7 pm and admission is free.

Wednesday, January 30, 2019

BITTERLY COLD TEMPERATURES SETTLE IN OVER SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A bitterly cold morning is awaiting residents throughout Southeast Missouri.

According to the National Weather Service, wind chill values could range anywhere from around zero to negative 20 in Southeast Missouri this morning.

A number of counties are under a wind chill advisory until noon today, including Wayne, Carter, Iron, Madison, Reynolds, and Bollinger Counties.

Officials say that frostbite and hypothermia can occur if precautions are not taken.

For a list of warming center’s available in Southeast Missouri visit our Facebook page.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has also made a website available for finding warming centers in your area at https://ogi.oa.mo.gov/DHSS/warmingCenter/.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR KENTUCKY MAN IN CONNECTION TO VEHICLE THEFT

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are searching for a Kentucky man in connection to a report of a stolen vehicle.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, a black Chevrolet Silverado Z71 was stolen from the parking lot of a Poplar Bluff Rhodes 101 Convenience Store on January 19th.

Police have identified Dalton Norville, of Marshall County, Kentucky, as a suspect in the theft. Norville is believed to be in the company of a runaway juvenile.

We have pictures of Norville and the truck available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who has information about Norville’s whereabouts or the location of the stolen pickup is asked to contact Detective Mustain at 573-686-8632.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS SEW PILLOWCASES TO HELP FOSTER CHILDREN

Junior High students in Poplar Bluff have been sewing pillowcases over the past few months to help foster children.

According to Principal Candace Warren, a group of seventh graders have donated about 100 hand-sewn pillowcases that double as laundry bags to FosterAdopt Connect SEMO.

The sacks were filled with small blankets, fidget spinners, and toiletry items such as wet wipes, deodorant and toothbrushes.

Principal Warren says the charitable deed served as a midyear service project for Team One.

FosterAdopt Connect offers training, advocacy and licensing to families caring for children through the foster system and adoption process.

CONSTRUCTION FORCES TEMPORARY CHANGES TO PARKING AT JOHN J PERSHING VA MEDICAL CENTER

Ongoing construction is forcing some parking changes at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Medical Center’s Facebook page, most of their patient parking is now on the north side of the building to provide more accessible spaces for Veterans while the new urgent care is under construction.

The changes will be temporary while the construction is going on. A map of the new parking areas is available on the Medical Center’s Facebook page and signs will be set up as well.

EARTHQUAKE REPORTED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Officials say that an earthquake was recorded early Tuesday morning in Southeast Missouri.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.2 quake occurred at 1:44 am Tuesday.

The earthquake was located approximately 10 miles southeast of Sikeston and had a depth of almost 10 miles.

US HIGHWAY 60 IN CARTER COUNTY TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR REPAIRS

Westbound US Highway 60 in Carter County will be reduced to one lane through Friday so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can seal cracks in the roadway.

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News the section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route P to one mile east of Route J.

Weather permitting; work will be performed from 7 am to 3 pm daily, through Friday. Officials say the work-zone may also be set-up overnight.

Tuesday, January 29, 2019

WIND CHILL VALUES EXPECTED TO GET NEAR ZERO TONIGHT

Wind chill values are expected to get around of below zero tonight.

According to the National Weather Service, It will be bitterly cold at times tonight through Wednesday night as a frigid arctic airmass spreads across the area.

Wind chills temperatures overnight will fall to zero to 10 below. Wind chills values will be lower the further north you go and a Wind Chill Advisory will be in effect for Iron, Madison, Reynolds, and Bollinger Counties.

Warming centers have been set up at numerous locations in Southeast Missouri, including the Butler County Health Department and the Poplar Bluff Public Library in Poplar Bluff as well as the Ripley County Health Center in Doniphan, and the Dexter Library.

For a list of warming center’s available in Southeast Missouri visit our Facebook page.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has also made a website available for finding warming centers in your area at https://ogi.oa.mo.gov/DHSS/warmingCenter/

TIPS FOR DEALING WITH BITTERLY COLD TEMPERATURES

With bitterly cold wind chill values expected for tonight and tomorrow morning, Missouri Governor Mike Parson is urging residents to take precautions to protect you and your family.

Remember to dress properly if you will be spending any time outdoors because such cold wind chill values will produce frostbite and hypothermia if precautions are not taken.

People need to also remember that an unexpected vehicle breakdown could turn into an extremely dangerous situation if they are unprepared-- remember to bring an extra set of warm clothing when traveling. Do not let the warmth of your vehicle give you a false sense of security.

State Fire Marshal Tim Bean says that space heaters are potentially deadly if they are not monitored and used correctly. Ovens and stove tops should never be used to attempt to heat a home. Make sure you are not overloading extension cords and power strips, which are not designed for heavy electrical loads.

Governor Parson is also urging Missourians to check on neighbors and family members who may need a little extra help during these dangerous conditions. Remember to limit outdoor time for your pets as well, as they will also be susceptible to the extreme cold temperatures.

AUTHORITIES ARREST BLOOMFIELD MAN 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 33 year old Robert Peloquin, of Bloomfield, was recently arrested on a two count felony warrant for possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Peloquin’s bond was set at $15,000, cash only, and officials say he remained in jail as of this morning.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS RESIDENTS APPOINTED TO STATE BOARDS

Multiple Northeast Arkansas residents have been appointed to state boards by Governor Asa Hutchinson.

According to the Governor’s Office, Will Brewer of Paragould has been appointed to a seat on the Arkansas Economic Development Council.

Paragould Mayor Mike Gaskill and Ramonda Housh, of Pocahontas, have been reappointed to the Arkansas Local Police and Fire Retirement System Board of Trustees and the State Board of Nursing respectively.

The appointments were announced by Governor Hutchinson on Monday.

RIPLEY COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

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

According to MoDOT, the closure will be located 2 miles from the junction of Route 142.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 am through 2 pm.

ROAD WORK SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route J in Stoddard County is being reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform drainage improvements.

The work zone is located from Route AA to Route F.

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

Monday January 28, 2019

AREA MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE IN BUTLER COUNTY 

Authorities in Butler County have arrested an area man on a meth charge.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 45 year old Daniel Russell, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody Sunday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.  

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

Following his arrest, Russell was held at the Butler County Jail.

DRIVER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN STODDARD COUNTY 

Authorities say a Dexter man was badly injured in a wreck last night in Stoddard County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Andres Triplett was driving on Stoddard County Road 468 shortly before 9 pm when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and struck a tree.  

Triplett was reportedly not wearing a safety device and suffered serious injuries in the wreck. He was transported by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

US HIGHWAY 60 IN CARTER COUNTY TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR REPAIRS 

Eastbound US Highway 60 in Carter County will be reduced to one lane this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can seal cracks in the roadway.  

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News the section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route P to Route J. 

Weather permitting; work will be performed today through Friday from 7 am to 3 pm, daily. The work-zone may be set-up overnight, weather permitting.

BUTLER COUNTY SHERIFF WARNS OF PHONE SCAMS 

The Butler County Sheriff is warning area residents to be cautious about multiple phone scams that have been reported.  

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that citizens should not to respond to calls in which the caller claims to be a Sheriff’s Deputy and states that the individual did not show up for jury duty and that they will be arrested. 

Some residents have also received calls in which a person falsely claiming to be a Sheriff’s deputy threatens to arrest them if the citizen does not send money. In some cases the caller I.D. shows up as a Sheriff’s Department. 

Sheriff Dobbs says that Missouri law enforcement will never call citizens demanding payment for anything. The best course of action is these situations is to simply hang up.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES 

A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody Friday night on multiple drug related charges.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 23 year old Demetri Rodgers was arrested shortly after 11 pm Friday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for heroin and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

Rodgers is also facing a felony charge of possession of controlled substance at a county jail. 

He was held at the Butler County Sheriff’s Office.

POPLAR BLUFF PARKS AND RECREATION TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING THIS AFTERNOON 

A public hearing has been scheduled for today by the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Department.  

The hearing will be to discuss the submission of an application for the Fiscal Year 2019 Recreational Trails Program of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.  

The department is requesting approximately $220,000 in RTP funds to complete phase four of the Poplar Bluff Greenways Project. Specifically, the project will include construction of a new trail to connect an existing trail along South Westwood Boulevard to the Shelby Road Extension Trail, and then heading east onto the intersection of Highway 53 and 11th Street. 

The total project cost is estimated at $315,000 with approximately $95,000 provided by the department. 

Department staff members will be present to answer questions at the hearing, which is set to begin at 4 pm today at the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission on Fair Street.  

For more information, contact Director Clark Allen at 573-686-8645.

GRANTS APPROVED FOR CARTER COUNTY 

A Southeast Missouri community has been approved grant money from the Center for Disaster Philanthropy.  

According to Carter County Clerk Leona Stephens, the Center has approved a grant for Carter County’s Flood Coordinator and the Temporary Facility for the offices of County Clerk, Treasurer, Commission and Judge.  

Stephens says they have also approved funds of $15,000 for the Recorder of Deeds to purchase a scanner and additional money to pay the setup fee and per diem to have the County Records scanned and digitized on site.

Friday, January 25, 2019

DISCHARGE TO BE INCREASED AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE

Officials say that discharges may be increased soon at Wappapello Lake.

According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the lake is forecast to rise to a level of 364.5 by Saturday due to recent rainfall and snowmelt throughout the watershed.

To help combat the rise, officials say the discharge has been increased to roughly 5,000 CFS, which is around 37,000 gallons a second.

The discharge could be increased today to 6,000 CFS.

Motorists are being asked to avoid flooded creek bottoms and areas prone to flash flooding.

AREA MAN WALKING OVER 900 MILES IN 92 DAYS

A Southeast Missouri resident has embarked on a journey to walk almost 1000 miles in around three months through Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas.

64 year old Rick Mansfield, of Ellington, is attempting to follow the path taken by explorer Henry Rowe Schoolcraft over 200 years ago.

KWOC News caught up with Mansfield yesterday over the phone who said he’s attempting to walk over 900 miles in 92 days.

“It started for me November 6th, 2018, the original started November 6th, 1818. Henry Rowe Schoolcraft, he was seeking if not fortune at least a better monetary life. There were rumors gossip of lead deposits to the west, he was doing quite well mining in Potosi, smelting lead.

So he and his companion Levi Pettibone set out that day to find those lead deposits and to make a history, a chart, of lead deposits and mineral prospects. I do historical characters to help teach culture and history and I've been doing Henry Schoolcraft for three years. The bicentennial was coming up and I thought you know this is a great way to highlight, a great way to immerse myself in the character.

So I left Potosi 200 years later to the day, almost to the hour, and so far have been able to step-by-step, day-by-day, recreate that journey. Part of my goal is to not only bring attention to Mr. Schoolcraft’s iconic journey and it his heroic contribution to our history and also to reconnect with nature.

And when you wake up out here at 15 or 16 degrees, you feel connected to nature.”

When we spoke with Mansfield yesterday he had just come through Imboden in Northeast Arkansas. Mansfield is hoping to complete his journey back to Potosi by February 4th.

WAPPAPELLO MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT

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

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 49 year old Johnny Sauls, of Wappapello, was recently taken into custody on a warrant for unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance.

Sauls bond was set at $20,000, cash only, and officials say he remained in jail as of this morning.

14TH ANNUAL MASON DIXON CHILI SOCIETY COOKOFF SCHEDULED FOR LATE FEBRUARY

A date has been set for the upcoming Mason Dixon Chili Society Chili Cookoff.

The 14th annual cookoff has been scheduled for Saturday, February 23rd at the Black River Coliseum in Poplar Bluff.

The entry fee is $100 per 8x10 booth, with the deadline for entry being February 8th. Teams can have a maximum of eight members including the head cook.

For more information, call 573-714-2040.

PIEDMONT TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING EARLY NEXT MONTH

The city of Piedmont will be hosting a public hearing early next month to discuss the city’s submission of a grant application.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, the city is proposing to construct an extension of the city trail system at Handy Park and is proposing to apply for approximately $90,000 in Recreational Trails Program funding.

The hearing will be held at 2 pm on Monday, February 4th at Piedmont City Hall.

For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Bill Kirkpatrick at 573-223-7660.

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION GRANT AWARDED TO MISSOURI

The state of Missouri has been awarded 6.5 million dollars for early childhood education.

Missouri Governor Michael Parson’s office tells KWOC News that families with children up to the age of five who participate in early learning programs in the state will benefit from the grant, which was awarded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Officials say the grant will be used to fund the Stronger Together Missouri project, which aims to implement a comprehensive, statewide, birth-to-kindergarten-entry needs assessment and to update the state’s Early Childhood Strategic Plan to enhance long-term sustainability in early childhood services.

The state will begin to implement the grant early this year.

Thursday January 24, 2019

DRIVERS CAUTIONED TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR BLACK ICE 

Weather officials are cautioning motorists to be on the lookout for black ice this morning.  

After yesterday’s rainfall and temperatures dropping below freezing overnight, officials say there is the potential for black ice to have developed on area road surfaces. 

Motorists are being advised to use caution while driving this morning, especially on untreated driveways and parking lots.

MAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANT 

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

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 50 year old Michael Jenkins, of Dexter, was recently taken into custody on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. 

Jenkins bond was set at $12,000, cash only, and officials say he remained in jail as of this morning.

CIRCUS TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF IN EARLY FEBRUARY 

Circus animals will be returning to Poplar Bluff early next month.  

The Carden International Circus will be presenting the All New Super Spectacular Circus on February 4th and 5th at the Black River Coliseum.  

Animals to be involved in the circus include a herd of Asian elephants, as well as Bengal tigers, horses, and camels.  

There will also be acrobats, aerialists, and clowns at the circus as well. 

The shows will begin at 6:30 pm each night will doors opening one hour before the show begins. General admission tickets are $14 for children 12 and under and $20 for adults. Tickets are on sale at www.SpectacularCircus.com.   

DEXTER TEEN ARRESTED ON KIDNAPPING WARRANT IN BUTLER COUNTY 

A Dexter teenager has been taken into custody on a kidnapping warrant.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 19 year old Cody Hicks was arrested Wednesday evening on a felony warrant out of Stoddard County on the original charges of kidnapping and domestic assault.  

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

ALZHEIMER’S CLASS TO BE OFFERED BY BUTLER COUNTY UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI EXTENSION 

The University of Missouri Extension in Butler County is offering a monthly class about Alzheimer’s disease. 

Alzheimer's 101 will be provided today and on the fourth Thursday of every month at noon. The class will cover what Alzheimer's is and some of the signs associated with the disease in addition to a discussion about the benefits of early detection and diagnosis. 

For more information, contact the University of Missouri Extension at 573-686-8064.

DATE SET FOR ZALMA CHURCH’S ANNUAL SPECIAL NEEDS DINNER AND AUCTION 

A date has been set for the Zalma General Baptist Church 13th annual special needs dinner and silent auction.  

The event will be held on Saturday, March 2nd at the Church Gym. Both the dinner and silent auction will begin at 3:30 pm.  

All proceeds from the event will go to the Church’s Special Needs Fund, which is used to sponsor mobile food give-aways, stock the church’s pantry for handout, and help those in need throughout the year.  

For more information, contact Patti Shelby at 573-225-3615.

Wednesday, January 23, 2019

TEMPERATURES EXPECTED TO DROP INTO THE LOWER TEENS LATER THIS WEEK

Temperatures are expected to drop harshly throughout the rest of the week in Southeast Missouri.

According to the National Weather Service, overnight Thursday night the temperature in Poplar Bluff is expected to bottom out in the lower teens, before rebounding to the lower 30’s during the day on Friday.

Weather officials say that some areas in Southeast Missouri could see wind chill values approaching or getting below zero Thursday night as well.

Warming centers have been set up at numerous locations in Southeast Missouri, including the Butler County Health Department and the Poplar Bluff Public Library in Poplar Bluff as well as the Ripley County Health Center in Doniphan, and the Dexter Library.

For a list of warming center’s available in Southeast Missouri visit our Facebook page.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has also made a website available for finding warming centers in your area at https://ogi.oa.mo.gov/DHSS/warmingCenter/

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING FIRE IN HAYTI

A Hayti home suffered extensive damage in a Tuesday morning fire.

According to the Hayti Fire Department, crews were dispatched shortly after 7 am yesterday to a structure fire on South Second Street.

It was decided at the scene that more manpower was needed and the Caruthersville Fire Department was called for assistance. With both crews, the fire was brought under control and hot spots were extinguished.

Officials say that the cause of the fire is undetermined at this time but the most intense fire was in the kitchen and laundry area. No information was available on if anyone was in the house at the time of the fire.

MISSING MARBLE HILL TEENAGER FOUND IN BONNE TERRE

A missing teenager from Southeast Missouri has been found.

According to the Marble Hill Police Department, a 13 year old male had last been seen at around 8 am Tuesday morning walking on west Highway 34 towards the Marble Hill city limits.

Later on Tuesday, a patrolman in Bonne Terre, Missouri saw a juvenile getting ready to enter a vehicle. He stopped the vehicle and found that the juvenile was the missing juvenile from Marble Hill.

Police are asking parents to ensure that you know who your children are communicating with on social media. Also talk to your children about the dangers of social media.

NO INJURIES AFTER MINER INN CATCHES FIRE

No injuries have been reported after an area Inn caught fire yesterday.

According to the Miner Police Department, the Country Hearth Inn caught fire and sustained heavy damage Tuesday morning.

Police officials say that everyone inside was able to escape safely.

A cause for the fire is under investigation.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A man has been flown to a regional hospital following a single vehicle wreck on Monday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 40 year old Guy Jenkins Jr., of Sikeston, was driving on US Highway 60 in New Madrid County when his vehicle ran off the roadway and overturned.

Jenkins suffered serious injuries in the wreck and has been flown to a St. Louis hospital.

DRUG FREE YOUTH RALLY SCHEDULED FOR MARCH IN BUTLER COUNTY

An area organization will be hosting a youth rally in March.

The Butler County Community Resource Council will host a Drug Free Youth Rally from 6 to 9 pm on Friday, March 8th at the Black River Coliseum in Poplar Bluff.

The event, for children 10 to 17 years old, will feature food, music, games, and prizes.

For more information, call 573-776-7830.

Tuesday January 22, 2019

ADVANCE MAN KILLED IN HEAD ON COLLISION  

An Advance man has died following a wreck over the weekend in Stoddard County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 58 year old James Greer was driving westbound in eastbound lane of Route C in Advance when he collided with another vehicle head-on.  

Officials say the wreck occurred at around 3 pm on Saturday.  

Greer was taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital where he was pronounced dead.  

The driver of the second vehicle suffered minor injuries and refused medical treatment at the scene.

POPLAR BLUFF PARKS AND RECREATION TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING NEXT WEEK 

A public hearing has been scheduled for next week by the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Department.  

The hearing will be to discuss the submission of an application for the Fiscal Year 2019 Recreational Trails Program of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.  

The department is requesting approximately $220,000 in RTP funds to complete phase four of the Poplar Bluff Greenways Project. Specifically, the project will include construction of a new trail to connect an existing trail along South Westwood Boulevard to the Shelby Road Extension Trail, and then heading east onto the intersection of Highway 53 and 11th Street. 

The total project cost is estimated at $315,000 with approximately $95,000 provided by the department. 

Department staff members will be present to answer questions at the hearing, which will begin at 4 pm on Monday, January 28th at the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission on Fair Street.  

For more information, contact Director Clark Allen at 573-686-8645.

LEARNING LAB IN POPLAR BLUFF TO HOST OPEN HOUSE TODAY 

The Learning Lab in Poplar Bluff will be hosting an Open House this afternoon.  

The event has been scheduled for 3 to 7 pm at The Learning Lab, located at 1125 Herschel Bess Boulevard in Poplar Bluff.  

Officials say attendees can learn about the services offered at the Learning Lab and also possibly win prizes. 

For more information, call 573-609-2294 or go to PBLearningLab.com.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING FATAL SHOOTING IN SIKESTON 

Authorities in Sikeston say that an investigation is ongoing in connection to a fatal shooting on Monday.  

Captain Austin Henley with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC News that at around 9:15 am Monday officers responded to a location on Adams Street in reference to a male subject that had been shot. 

At the scene, officers found a 25 year old male from Charleston with a single gunshot wound. The victim was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.  

A 27 year old female from Charleston has been identified as a person of interest in the shooting and she is currently cooperating with law enforcement. Captain Henley says that the early indications in the investigation are pointing toward a domestic violence incident. 

The name of the victim is being withheld pending family notifications. The name of the female involved has also not been released, since no charges have been filed.

TWO PEOPLE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ADVANCE AREA WRECK 

Two people were seriously injured in a wreck Saturday afternoon in the Advance area.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred at around 1:35 pm Saturday when a vehicle lost control on Highway 25 in Stoddard County, slid sideways, and struck another vehicle.  

Two people in the vehicle that was hit received serious injuries in the wreck and were transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital. No injuries were listed for the driver of the first vehicle.

MULTIPLE EVENTS SCHEDULED FOR KIDS TO PARKS DAY AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE 

Officials with the US Army Corps of Engineers tell KWOC News that multiple activities have been scheduled for the 2019 Kids to Parks day at Wappapello Lake. 

The free event has been scheduled for 9 am to 12 pm on Saturday, May 18th at the Redman Creek Recreation Area. 

There will be a variety of fun water safety and recreational themed games and activities with prizes also being awarded. 

For more information, call the Wappapello Lake Management office at 573-222-8562.

Monday January 21, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF MAN TO BE SENTENCED IN APRIL FOR SHOOTING AT AUTHORITIES 

Sentencing has been set for April after a man pled guilty on Friday to the shooting of two members of law enforcement last year in Poplar Bluff.  

Last July, Poplar Bluff officers, along with the United States Marshals Service, responded to an apartment located on Kinzer Street in an attempt to arrest a man on an active warrant. 

Officers entered the apartment, at which point the suspect opened fire. A Poplar Bluff Police Detective received a non-life threatening wound while an officer with the US Marshals Service was struck in his body armor, but had no additional injuries. 

After a short standoff, 28 year old James Johnson Jr. surrendered and was taken into custody.  

On Friday, Johnson pled guilty to multiple charges and his sentencing was scheduled for April 19th.

WEEKEND WEATHER SYSTEM DROPS UP TO NINE INCHES OF SNOW IN SOME LOCATIONS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

Near blizzard conditions were experienced in some areas over the weekend as a strong storm system moved into our region.  

According to the National Weather Service, on Saturday a combination of high snowfall rates, strong winds up to and over 45 mph, and rapidly falling temperatures led to treacherous road conditions.  

In Southeast Missouri, some areas including parts of Ripley, Carter, Wayne, and Bollinger County reported snow fall totals of six to eight inches. Some isolated areas reported up to nine inches of snow.  

Snow fall totals were more modest in other areas, with reports of two and a half inches of snow in Fairdealing, three inches in Kennett, and three and a half inches in Dexter and Bernie.  

Heavy rain also impacted the region prior to the snow arriving, with many areas receiving 1 to 2 inches of total rainfall.

POPLAR BLUFF COMMUNITY CELEBRATION OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. TO BE HELD THIS MORNING 

An event will be held this morning in Poplar Bluff for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.  

The 33rd Annual Community Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be held at 11 am at the Wheatley School on Garfield Street.  

The theme of the event is “We Are All One Humanity,” and the speaker will be Mrs. Erin Moore.

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY VEHICLE NEAR POPLAR BLUFF 

A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle last week in Butler County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 40 year old James Beckham, of Piedmont, was hit by a vehicle on Business 67, one mile south of Poplar Bluff.  

Officials say the incident occurred shortly before 6 pm Friday evening.  

Beckham suffered moderate injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.     

PROSECUTOR SAYS RECTOR OFFICER APPEARED TO BE JUSTIFIED IN FATAL SHOOTING 

A preliminary report says a northeast Arkansas police officer was justified in fatally shooting a man last year. 

Prosecutor Scott Ellington says that Rector Officer Jeffery Wolfenbarger appears justified in the shooting of 21 year old Gary Warbritton as Warbritton pointed a handgun at two other officers at a convenience store in Rector on December 26th. 

Ellington says that both Wolfenbarger and Officer Michael Turner appear justified in shooting at Warbritton. Turner had encountered Warbritton on a city street and shot and missed him when Warbritton pointed the gun at him. 

Ellington noted that his report is preliminary pending ballistics and autopsy reports.    

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR THE 2019 OPTIMIST SOCCER SPRING LEAGUE IN POPLAR BLUFF 

Registration is now open for the 2019 Poplar Bluff Optimist Spring Soccer League. 

Registrations for youth in first through sixth grades will be open until March 1st and the registration fee is $20. Forms are available at the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Office located at 430 North Second Street. 

For more information, contact Staci Barker at 718-0959. 

Friday, January 18, 2019

INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY AFTER REMAINS FOUND IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

An investigation has been started after human remains were found earlier this week in Southeast Missouri.

According to authorities, the remains were found Wednesday in Dunklin County.

No information has been released about an identity or possible cause of death for the remains.

ALMOST 300,000 DEER HARVESTED DURING DEER SEASON

With deer season coming to a close earlier this week, conservation officials say that hunters harvested almost 300,000 deer in Missouri during the hunting period.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is reporting that Missouri's 2018-2019 deer-hunting season came to an end on January 15th with a preliminary total harvest of 290,339 deer.

This was up almost 6,000 deer from last year’s total.

Conservation officials also say that 28 more deer from 11 Missouri counties have been found to have chronic wasting disease. In Southeast Missouri, seven of the deer were from Ste. Genevieve County, while three were from Oregon County.

This brings the number of cases of the deadly deer disease in Missouri to 103 since 2012.

AUTHORITIES IN STODDARD COUNTY ARREST CAMPBELL MAN ON DRUG RELATED CHARGES

Authorities in Stoddard County say that an area man has been taken into custody on drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 40 year old Jerrad Presson, of Campbell, was arrested Thursday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Presson is also facing charges of driving while intoxicated – drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia.

41ST ANNUAL BLACKPOWDER RENDEZVOUS TO BE HELD IN LATE APRIL

We are just over three months away from the 41st annual Blackpowder Rendezvous.

According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, this year’s rendezvous has been scheduled for Saturday, April 27th and Sunday, April 28th.

The free two day event will feature living history encampments, black powder shooting competitions, vendors, children's games and more.

For more information, visit the Wappapello Lake US Army Corps of Engineers Facebook page.

JOB AND COLLEGE TRANSFER FAIR SET FOR EARLY APRIL IN POPLAR BLUFF

A date has been set for the spring Job Fair in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Butler County Community Resource Council, the Job Fair, as well as a College Transfer Fair, will be held from 10 am to 3 pm on Thursday, April 4th.

The fairs will be located at the Bess Activity Center on the campus of Three Rivers College.

SEARCH UNDERWAY FOR DIRECTORS FOR CENTER STAGE

Three Rivers College officials say a search is underway to find directors for the upcoming Center Stage season.

Center Stage is the college’s blended theater company of students, college employees, and community members and proposals are being sought for the 2019-2020 season.

Proposals should include a short description of the play or musical and a list of cast members or types.

To help determine costs, proposals should also include the different sets and set pieces, a brief description of costumes and number of costume changes, and any specialized props or effects needed as well as a brief description of your theater experience.

Prospective directors are asked to email their proposals to RAbney@trcc.edu. Proposals are due by February 28th.

Thursday, January 17, 2019

NO FOUL PLAY SUSPECTED IN PORTAGEVILLE DEATH

Updating a story we brought to you earlier this week, no foul play is being suspected in the death of Portageville teenager.

Portageville Police Chief Ronnie Adams tells KWOC News that Saturday morning officers found a body outside of an area residence. The deceased has been identified as 19 year old Michael Angel, of Portageville.

An investigation, including an autopsy, was conducted and no foul play is suspected. Adams says a cause of death will be released at a later time pending toxicology reports.

2019 AG EXPO TO BEGIN TOMORROW IN POPLAR BLUFF

Ag Expo 2019 is set to begin tomorrow in Poplar Bluff.

Ag Expo will be held both Friday and Saturday at the Black River Coliseum. There will be over 100 vendors on display relating to all aspects of agriculture and natural resources in Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas.

Additional events will include the beauty pageant, FFA tractor driving contest, petting farm, old time auction, and milking contest.

Admission will be $1 for adults, while youth and college students get in for free.

For more information about the expo, call 573-686-8064.

MAN FACING MURDER CHARGE IN SIKESTON SHOOTING DEATH

Authorities say that a man is facing a murder charge in connection to a shooting earlier this week.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, a 42 year old female was found dead from apparent gunfire at an area residence on Tuesday.

Assistant Chief James McMillen says that the victim has been identified as Jennifer Midgett. Officials believe the incident began as a domestic violence argument that escalated to the shooting of Midgett inside her home.

Midgett’s boyfriend, 36 year old Jeffrey Anderson, of Sikeston, has been arrested on charges of murder 1st degree, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon with no bond being set.

ALZHEIMER’S CLASS TO BE OFFERED BY BUTLER COUNTY UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI EXTENSION

The University of Missouri Extension in Butler County is offering a monthly class about Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer's 101 will be provided on the fourth Thursday of every month at noon. The class will cover what Alzheimer's is and some of the signs associated with the disease in addition to a discussion about the benefits of early detection and diagnosis.

For more information, contact the University of Missouri Extension at 573-686-8064.

POPLAR BLUFF DRAMA CLUB TO HOST IMPROV SHOW THIS WEEKEND

The Poplar Bluff High School Drama Club will be hosting an improv show this weekend.

“Whose Line Is It Anyway,” will begin at 7 pm both Friday and Saturday night at the Kay Porter Theater in Poplar Bluff. Doors will open at 6:30 each night.

The audience will get to participate in helping form the scenes during the show. Tickets will be $5 and come with one free suggestion card.

DEADLINE COMING UP TO DONATE YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE TO THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS

The deadline is coming up to donate your used Christmas tree to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

All you have to do is drop your undecorated tree off in the marked location at the Redman Creek Recreation Area boat ramp. The Corps will be accepting used Christmas trees through Friday.

Officials say the trees will be used to aid in establishing a fish shelter and small game habitat.

For more information, contact Natural Resources Specialist John Daves at 573-222-8562.

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

TWO ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO NUMEROUS RECENT BURGLARIES

Authorities in Butler County have arrested two men following a pursuit earlier this week. Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that on Monday, he spotted an individual who had been developed as a suspect in numerous burglaries.

The subject, Marty Luke, of Greenville, was seen in a vehicle that had been spotted at a previous burglary. Luke drove to an area hotel and returned to his vehicle with another male subject, Donald Sanders, of Greenville. A traffic stop was attempted on the vehicle however the driver fled. Sanders threw jewelry, illegal narcotics, and a firearm out of a window of the vehicle during the pursuit.

As Luke was driving south on Westwood Boulevard, he attempted to abruptly turn onto PP highway. The vehicle went across the intersection, hit a small embankment, and vaulted into a grassy area where it came to rest. Dobbs says that both Luke and Sanders fled on foot but were soon caught by deputies. A deputy found numerous items of jewelry on Sanders’ person as well as along the path that Sanders had ran.

Dobbs says a search of a hotel room the two were staying at revealed numerous property items that were taken from recent burglaries. The Sheriff’s Office is working to identify the property and return it to its owners.

Dobbs say that it is believed that both men are responsible for 10 to 15 recent burglaries. Both men were transported to the Butler County Jail where they each remain on a $100,000 bond.

WATE SET FOR 4TH ANNUAL WAPPAPELLO WOODLANDS EXPO

A date has been set for the 4th Annual Wappapello Woodlands Expo.

According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the expo will be held from 8 am to 5 pm on Saturday, March 23rd.

Officials say there will be something for the entire family at the event, including Little Lumberjack games, crafters, vendors, and timber sports competitions.

Registration for both vendors and competitors is still available. For more information, call 573-222-8562.

APPLICATIONS FOR SPRING MANAGED TURKEY HUNTS STARTING IN FEBRUARY

Missouri conservation officials say that applications will be available soon for spring managed turkey hunts.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri youth, archery, and firearms turkey hunters can apply online for the managed hunts beginning on February 1st through the MDC website at mdc.mo.gov/SpringTurkeyHunts.

Managed hunt details and application procedures are outlined on that webpage. Drawing results will be posted starting March 15.

Spring turkey hunting youth weekend will be April 6 and 7 with the regular spring season running April 15 through May 5. Officials say permits will be available starting March 1.

SIGN MAINTENANCE TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Northbound Route 25 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform sign maintenance.

MoDOT officials say the section of roadway affected is located from east Stoddard to Business 60 in Dexter.

Work is scheduled to take place today from 9 am to 3 pm.

MODOT CREWS TO BE IN DUNKLIN COUNTY TODAY FOR SHOULDER REPAIRS

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Dunklin County today for shoulder repairs on Route J.

Weather permitting, work is set to take place today through Friday, from 8 am to 3 pm daily.

Officials say that Route J will be reduced to one lane between Route 53 and Business 25 in Malden for the repairs.

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

FOUR ARRESTED FOLLOWING SEARCH OF UNINHABITABLE POPLAR BLUFF BUILDING

Four people have been arrested following the execution of a search warrant at an uninhabitable building in Poplar Bluff.

KWOC News spoke with Detective Joey Woodruff from the Poplar Bluff Police Department who says that the investigation into the building began last week.

“On Friday I learned of an ongoing investigation regarding multiple code enforcement violations at the commercial building of 203 and 205 South Main Streets in Poplar Bluff. I began assisting code enforcement officers by obtaining a search warrant through Poplar Bluff Municipal Court.

After obtaining the warrant, arrangements were made to execute the search warrant on Monday morning about 9:30. When officers arrived at the building entry was made and twenty-six people were contacted inside. Officers also located numerous animals inside the building and several code enforcement violations, building violations, were found which deemed the structure uninhabitable. A check of the information of the people inside revealed that four had outstanding warrants for their arrest:

Derrick Alexander, 41, of Poplar Bluff

William Denton, 44, of Poplar Bluff

Shannon Mansfield, 40, of Poplar Bluff

Nathan Hutcheson, 51, of Poplar Bluff

(The Four) were all taken into custody and later booked and lodged at the Butler County Jail. This investigation was a multi-jurisdictional investigation. We utilized not only the Poplar Bluff Police Department but the Missouri State Highway Patrol, code enforcement, Animal Control, the city building inspector, and the Butler County Health Department, and also the Poplar Bluff Fire Department.”

ONE FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING WRECK IN CARTER COUNTY

A West Plains man has been flown to an area hospital following a wreck Monday evening.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred on US Highway 60 near Ellsinore at around 5 pm.

A vehicle reportedly turned in front of a semi truck and the semi lost control and overturned.

The driver of the semi was seriously injured in the wreck and flown to a Memphis hospital. No injuries were listed for the driver of the other vehicle.

MAN ARRESTED ON HOMICIDE WARRANT IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

A Caruthersville teenager was taken into custody yesterday on a homicide warrant.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 18 year old Jaquarius West was arrested shortly before 9 am Monday in Pemiscot County on a felony Macon County, Illinois warrant for homicide.

According to the Decatur, Illinois Police Department, West’s arrest was in connection to an incident on January 4th were two people were shot at a Decatur restaurant. One of the victims has since passed away. Police say that two other people have also been arrested in connection to the incident.

West is being held in the Pemiscot County Jail pending his extradition back to Illinois.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING DEATH IN PORTAGEVILLE

A man was found dead over the weekend in Portageville.

According to authorities, the man’s body was discovered Saturday morning outside of an area home.

The man’s identity has not been released.

An autopsy has been scheduled for later this morning and an investigation into the death is ongoing.

NEW TECHNICAL CAREER CENTER PROGRAM RECEIVES APPROVAL FROM STATE AGENCY

A new program at the Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center has received approval from a state agency.

According to the Poplar Bluff School District, the new computer science program received approval from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education last Thursday pending instructor certification through Project Lead the Way, a national provider of STEM curriculum and professional development.

The district will use federal money for initial costs including paying the salary of the teacher, and matching enhancement grants will be submitted for classroom equipment such as student workstations, pending board approval later this week.

Officials say that teaching applicants are currently being solicited via the Poplar Bluff R-I School District website.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING METH CHARGE OUT OF BUTLER COUNTY

Authorities in Butler County have arrested an area man on a meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 44 year old Danny Williams, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody Monday evening on charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine and failure to maintain financial responsibility.

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

Monday January 14, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF MAN IN CUSTODY FOR ALLEGEDLY DRIVING TO ARKANSAS TO HAVE SEX WITH A CHILD 

Authorities in Central Arkansas say that a Poplar Bluff man has been arrested for allegedly driving over 100 miles to meet a 15 year old child for sex. 

According to the Arkansas First Judicial District Judge Task Force, 25 year old Keegan Tatsch was in custody in the Cross County Jail.  

Tatsch allegedly sent sexually explicit messages and a photo to what he believed was an underage child.  

Tatsch told the child that he would spend the weekend with her in the absence of her family who was allegedly on vacation. When Tatsch arrived to meet the child, he was taken into custody by investigators. Authorities found a bag packed with two changes of clothes, multiple condoms, and a hygiene kit in Tatsch’s vehicle.  

Officials say Tatsch has been charged by the First Judicial District Drug Task Force with felony Internet Stalking of a Child and will have his first appearance today in Cross County District Court. His bond was set at $50,000, cash only. 

Tatsch was recently charged in an unrelated case in Craighead County with “interference with custody” after a missing 16 year old high school student was recovered at Tatsch’s residence. Tatsch’s vehicle was allegedly seen on video picking up the student from her high school after the two began talking online.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE WARRANTS IN STODDARD COUNTY 

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested a Poplar Bluff man on multiple warrants.  

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 29 year old Matthew Carter was recently arrested on a felony warrant for a parole violation, a felony warrant for two counts of forgery from Ripley County, and a misdemeanor warrant for failure to appear out of Poplar Bluff.  

A $20,000 bond was set for the forgery warrant, a $236 bond was set on the failure to appear warrant, and no bond has been set for the parole violation warrant.

EARTHQUAKE SHAKES PARTS OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

Did you feel the earthquake that hit Southeast Missouri on Friday? 

According to the United States Geographical Survey, a magnitude 2.9 quake was recorded at 10:27 pm Friday night between Lilbourn and Marston.  

Officials say the earthquake had a depth of over seven miles.

THREE ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY 

Three people were taken into custody Saturday afternoon in Butler County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old Clayton Ross, of Fremont, 25 year old Rachel Huddleston, of Imperial, and 18 year old Hunter Vest, of Ellsinore, were all arrested at around 1 pm Saturday.  

Officials say Ross was arrested on charges including possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. Vest is facing charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance.  

Huddleston was taken into custody on a felony Butler County warrant for possession of heroin and a felony Collinsville, Illinois warrant for shoplifting.  

Officials did not specify if the three arrests were connected.

ONE DEAD AFTER FARM IMPLEMENT STRIKES VEHICLE 

One woman was killed in a wreck involving a farm implement on Friday.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the farm implement struck the side of a vehicle Friday afternoon on Route Y, west of Sikeston. The second vehicle then overturned.  

A passenger in the second vehicle, identified as 39 year old Julia Moreland, of Sikeston, was pronounced dead at the scene. No injuries were listed for the driver of either vehicle.

CRIMINAL ACTIVITY TASK FORCE ANNOUNCED FOR NORTHEAST ARKANSAS 

Multiple communities in Northeast Arkansas will be taking part in a new criminal activity task force that was announced last week.  

Scott Ellington, Prosecuting Attorney for the Second Judicial District of Arkansas, has announced the creation of the Second Judicial District Organized Criminal Activity Task Force.  

Ellington says the task force’s mission is to identify and target for prosecution criminal enterprise groups whose activities include drug trafficking, arms trafficking and possession, crimes of violence such as murder and aggravated assault, robbery, and violent street gangs, as well as to intensely focus on the apprehension of dangerous fugitives.  

The task force is comprised of law enforcement officials from numerous agencies in Northeast Arkansas including the Paragould Police Department, the Jonesboro Police Department, and the Arkansas Department of Community Corrections.

Friday, January 11, 2019

MOST COUNTIES IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI TO BE UNDER WINTER STORM WARNING OR WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY TODAY

With a winter weather system approaching most counties in Southeast Missouri will be under a winter storm warning or winter weather advisory beginning today.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, a winter weather advisory will be in effect for a line of counties in Southern Missouri beginning at noon including Carter, Ripley, Butler, Stoddard, and Scott Counties.

These counties could see total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches and ice accumulations of around one tenth of an inch.

The National Weather Service says that north of those areas is where the Winter Storm Warning will be in effect today.

Wayne, Bollinger, and Cape Girardeau Counties will have a winter storm warning beginning at noon and are expected to receive a total snow accumulation of 3 to 6 inches and a light glaze of ice.

Iron, Madison, and Reynolds Counties will be under a Winter Storm Warning beginning at 9 am, and weather officials say that total snow accumulations of 6 to 9 inches are possible, in addition to sleet accumulations of around one-third of an inch and a light glaze of ice.

TWO TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON FIREARM AND DRUG CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY

Authorities in Butler County have arrested two area residents on felony firearm and drug charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 41 year old Crystal Inscoe and 38 year old Torcavisa Reynolds, both of Poplar Bluff, were each taken into custody Thursday night at around 7:15 pm.

They are each facing felony charges of possession of controlled substance for methamphetamine and diazepam as well as possession of stolen property – firearm. They were also arrested on a charge of unlawful use of a firearm.

Following the arrest, both were held at the Butler County Jail.

CONTRACT AWARDED FOR PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS IN STODDARD AND NEW MADRID COUNTIES

A contract has been awarded for pavement improvements on Route 114 in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Pace Construction received the contract for improvements on Route 114 from Route 60 to Route 61 in New Madrid, Scott and Stoddard Counties.

Additional information, including a timeline and impacts to traffic, will be released prior to the start of construction.

The contract was awarded Thursday by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission

ARKANSAS MAN FLOWN TO CAPE GIRARDEAU HOSPITAL FOLLOWING THREE VEHICLE WRECK

An Arkansas man has been flown to an area hospital following a wreck Wednesday afternoon in Dunklin County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred on Highway 84, in the Kennett area, when a vehicle crossed the center line and struck two other vehicles.

The driver of one of the vehicles that was hit, a 62 year old man from Rector was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital with moderate injuries. No injuries were listed for the other drivers.

AWARD WINNING LANDSCAPE ARTIST TO BE FEATURED AT TINNIN FINE ARTS CENTER

Starting this weekend, an award winning local artist will be featured at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center in Poplar Bluff.

Rose Anne Barbour Huck, a professional artist focusing on landscape paintings in acrylics, will be the featured artist at the Tinnin Center Art Gallery from January 12th to February 22nd.

An opening reception will be held Saturday from 6 to 8 pm in the lobby of the Tinnin Fine Arts Center. The event is open to the public and free of charge.

FISK MAN FACING METH AND PARAPHERNALIA CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Fisk man was taken into custody Thursday afternoon on meth and paraphernalia charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 54 year old Stephen Rice was arrested at around 4 pm on charges including possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

Thursday, January 10, 2019

WINTER WEATHER SYSTEM EXPECTED TO HIT THE AREA BEGINNING ON FRIDAY

A winter weather system is expected to hit the area on Friday.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook from the National Weather Service in Paducah, mixed wintry precipitation, mainly in the form of rain and snow, is forecast for most of the area from late Friday through Sunday.

Weather officials say that while the heaviest snow is forecast across the northern portions of southeast Missouri, enough snow could accumulate across southeast Missouri to result in travel impacts Friday night and early Saturday morning.

At this time, total snow accumulation is forecast in the 1 to 3

inch range, with Poplar Bluff being more likely to be on the top end of that range.

Additional wintry precipitation may affect portions of the region

Saturday night into Sunday, however, any additional accumulation is expected to be light at this time.

MAN FACING METH AND MARIJUANA CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST IN BUTLER COUNTY

An area man is facing meth and marijuana charges following his arrest Tuesday night in Butler County.

According to authorities, 37 year old Patrick Buckley, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine.

Buckley was also arrested on charges of possession of marijuana – under 10 grams and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

DEXTER MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON WARRANTS FOR FELONY FORGERY

A Dexter man has been taken into custody on forgery warrants.

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 39 year old Terry Lee Hendrix was recently arrested on warrants for 10 counts of felony forgery.

Hendrix’s bond has been set at $10,000, cash only, and officials say he remained in jail as of this morning.

MULTIPLE NORTHEAST ARKANSAS SCHOOLS TO RECEIVE GRANT MONEY

Multiple schools in Northeast Arkansas will be receiving grant money from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission Division of Rural Services.

The commission announced yesterday that they have awarded grants totaling over $531,000 to promote wildlife education and improve school conservation programs to 253 schools and conservation districts in 71 Arkansas counties.

The grant program is funded by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission through fines collected from hunting and fishing violations. Only money collected in the county where the violation occurred may be used as grant funds for that county.

In Clay County, grant recipients include the Corning, Piggott, and Rector School Districts.

Recipients in Greene County include Marmaduke High School, Oak Grove Middle School, and the Greene County Tech School District.

In Randolph County, grant money will go to the Maynard School District.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON METH AND PARAPHERNALIA CHARGES

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

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Ronnie Pullum Jr. was taken into custody shortly before 9:30 pm Tuesday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

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

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS POLICE DEPARTMENT TO RECEIVE DONATION OF K-9 BODY ARMOR

A Police Department in Northeast Arkansas has announced that they are receiving a donation of body armor for their four-legged officer.

The Paragould Police Department’s K9 Zyk will receive a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc.

According to the Paragould PD’s Facebook page, the vest was sponsored by an anonymous sponsor and will be embroidered with the sentiment “Honoring those who served and sacrificed”.

Delivery of the vest is expected within eight to ten weeks.

Wednesday, January 9, 2019

NEW THREE RIVERS SPORTS COMPLEX TO OPEN IN EARLY FEBRUARY

An opening date has been set for the new sports complex on the campus of Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

A ribbon cutting ceremony for the Libla Family Sports Complex has been scheduled for 3 pm on Saturday, February 2nd.

The sports complex is a 60,000-square-foot gymnasium that seats over 3,000 people and is intended to replace the Bess Activity Center as the home of the College’s Raiders and Lady Raiders basketball teams.

The complex is also convertible into a three-court facility suitable for holding practices and regional high school basketball tournaments.

The ribbon cutting ceremony on February 2nd will be followed by a basketball double-header as both the Lady Raiders and Raiders take on State Fair Community College. The Lady Raiders will tip-off at 5 pm followed by the men’s game at 7 pm.

MAN FACING DRUG AND GUN CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Bloomfield man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest Tuesday afternoon.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 23 year old Tyler Hathaway was taken into custody in Butler County on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and unlawful use of a firearm.

Hathaway was also arrested on misdemeanor charges of possession of marijuana and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

BRIGGS & STRATTON CORPORATION FOUNDATION DONATES OVER $4000 TO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS

Poplar Bluff Schools recently received over $4,000 from the Briggs and Stratton Corporation Foundation.

Poplar Bluff School Officials say that the foundation donated $4,500 last month to the school district.

The charitable contribution is an annual tradition of the small engine manufacturer that in previous years has gone to Eugene Field Elementary to be used toward one-time expenses such as playground equipment.

WOMAN ARRESTED ON FELONY CHARGE IN WAYNE COUNTY

Authorities in Wayne County say that an area woman has been taken into custody on felony controlled substance charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 57 year old Penny Goodman, of Piedmont, was arrested Tuesday morning on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for amphetamine and diazepam.

Following the arrest, Goodman was held in the Wayne County Jail.

POPLAR BLUFF MUNICIPAL LIBRARY TO HOST STEM CHALLENGES FOR CHILDREN ON THURSDAY

The Poplar Bluff Municipal Library will be hosting an event on Thursday for area children.

The “Can You Survive Stem Challenge” has been scheduled for 5 to 7 pm Thursday evening at the Library.

Officials say that kids from 6 to 12 years old can participate in science, technology, engineering, and math challenges based on events in the "I Survived" novels.

More information about the Poplar Bluff Public Library is available at PoplarBluff.org.

PUBLIC MEETING SET FOR TOMORROW TO DISCUSS TRANSPORTATION ISSUES IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

The Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission has announced that a public meeting of the Transportation Advisory Committee has been set for tomorrow.

Officials say that the meeting has been scheduled for 6 pm on Thursday at the Float Stream restaurant in Van Buren.

The meeting will be to discuss transportation issues in Butler, Carter, Reynolds, Ripley, and Wayne Counties.

A copy of the agenda can be obtained by contacting Andrew Murphy at 573-785-6402.