Monday April 15, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING DRUG CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST IN STODDARD COUNTY 

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an area man on multiple drug related charges.  

According to authorities, 63 year old Danny Parker, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody Sunday evening on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.  

Parker is also facing charges of possession of marijuana – less than 10 grams, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, and failure to drive on the right half of the roadway.  

Following the arrest, he was held at the Stoddard County Jail.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE IN NEW MADRID COUNTY 

A Poplar Bluff woman was arrested over the weekend in New Madrid County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 53 year old Donna Watson was taken into custody Sunday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.  

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

Authorities also arrested 57 year old Michael Plaskie, of Whitewater, for felony possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

CITY OF ELLSINORE TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING TODAY 

The City of Ellsinore has announced that they will be hosting a public hearing this evening.  

Officials say the hearing is to discuss the city’s submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant. 

City officials are requesting funds for the construction of a public safety building to house the police department, fire protection district, and ambulance district. The total project cost is estimated at $530,000. 

The block grant portion of the project is approximately $500,000 and the city proposes to contribute approximately $30,000. 

The public hearing has been scheduled for 5 pm today at the Ellsinore City Hall. For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Wayne Ogden at 573-322-5333.

NEW MAYOR TO BE ELECTED AT POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL MEETING TONIGHT 

Two special meetings of the Poplar Bluff City Council will be held tonight before the regularly scheduled meeting.  

The first meeting will begin at 6 pm and will see the city council taking action on two issues; the first will be an ordinance accepting a bid for the Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade project. The second issue is a resolution appointing Nevada Young as City Clerk, effective July 1st. 

The second special meeting will begin at 6:45 pm and will have the City Clerk swear in the newly elected City Council members. The new council will then hold a vote to decide a new Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem.  

The regular meeting of the city council will then follow at 7 pm.

TWO TEENAGERS SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MATTHEWS AREA WRECK 

Two area teenagers were injured Sunday night in a single vehicle wreck near Matthews.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 16 year old female from Sikeston was driving on Missouri Highway 84 when her vehicle ran off the roadway, struck an embankment, and overturned.  

The driver and a 15 year old passenger in the vehicle each suffered serious injuries in the wreck. The driver was flown to a Memphis hospital while the passenger was taken by ambulance to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

FOOD AND SANITATION SCHOOL OFFERED THIS WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF 

A course about food safety and hygiene has been set for this week in Poplar Bluff.  

Food and Sanitation School will be held on Thursday from 9 am to 11:30 am and 1 pm to 3:30 pm in meeting room one of the Black River Coliseum.  

According to the Butler County Health Department, the course is being offered free of charge.

Friday April 12, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF AREA BUSINESS SET TO CLOSE 

A Poplar Bluff area store will soon be closing its doors.  

Fred’s, Incorporated announced on Thursday that they will be closing 159 stores, including locations in Poplar Bluff, Paragould, and Cape Girardeau.  

The company intends to close all of the impacted stores by the end of May.

TWO PEOPLE INJURED IN A THREE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR POPLAR BLUFF 

Two people were injured Thursday morning in a three vehicle wreck near Poplar Bluff.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the first vehicle was stopped on Highway 53 to make a left hand turn. The second vehicle was waiting behind the first vehicle, when the second vehicle was hit from behind by the third vehicle. The second vehicle then struck the first vehicle.  

The incident occurred shortly before 9:30 am Thursday, approximately two miles south of Poplar Bluff.  

The driver of the third vehicle, 76 year old Arthur Daugherty, of Poplar Bluff, suffered serious injuries in the wreck, while the driver of the second vehicle received moderate injuries. They were both transported to Poplar Bluff area hospitals.

LAKE ROAD ELEMENTARY CHOSEN FOR NATIONAL HONOR FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW 

A Poplar Bluff school has been chosen for a national honor.  

Lake Road Elementary has been named a Capturing Kids' Hearts National Showcase School for the second year in a row.  

The award, given by the Flippen Group, recognizes and celebrates schools and districts that go the extra mile each day, building an environment where students are relationally connected and eager to learn. 

Lake Road is one of only 202 schools nationwide to receive the award, and one of only four in Missouri.

FARMERS URGED TO OPERATE FARM EQUIPMENT IN A SAFE MANNER 

With spring time comes planting season for many area farms. This will result in an increase of farmers using farm machinery on area roadways.  

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding farmers to make sure that any farm equipment being driven on Missouri roadways is properly marked with lights and a “slow-moving vehicle” emblem. 

If traffic accumulates behind you on a road where it is difficult to make a safe pass, you should pull off onto the side of the road in a level area, so the vehicles can go by. 

If possible, never travel on roadways at dawn or dusk when it is more difficult for drivers of other vehicles to see.  

However, Missouri law allows agricultural machinery and implements to be operated on state highways between the hours of sunset and sunrise for agricultural purposes provided such vehicles are equipped with the required lighting.

POPLAR BLUFF JUNIOR HIGH STUDENT RECIEVES TITLE OF JUNIOR YOUTH OF THE YEAR FOR MISSOURI 

A student at Poplar Bluff Junior High has been chosen as a “Junior Youth of the Year” for the state of Missouri.  

According to the Poplar Bluff Junior High School Facebook Page, Emma King earned the title after representing the Boys and Girls Club of Poplar Bluff at a two-day competition held in Jefferson City for students ages 10 to 13.  

School officials say that each student was interviewed, wrote several essays, and presented a 3-minute speech in front of seven judges.  

King was also presented with a proclamation from State Senator Doug Libla.

REORGINIZATION ANNOUNCED FOR CORNING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 

A Northeast Arkansas School District has announced some changes that will go into effect for the next school year.  

According to Corning Public School Superintendent Kellee Smith, Central Elementary School will be reorganized. Students in third and fourth grade will be relocated to Park Elementary, while fifth and sixth grades will be relocated to a newly formed Corning Middle School. 

The middle school will be housed in the Corning Junior High building.  

Smith says that the decision was based on declining enrolment.  

Administrators are working to finalize all of the transition details. When the plans are complete, a public meeting will be held to address any questions parents have.

MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO BURGLARIES IN NUMEROUS SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTIES 

A joint investigation into numerous burglaries in several Southeast Missouri counties has resulted in an arrest.  

According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Department, over the past several months multiple business burglaries have occurred in Stoddard, Bollinger, Scott, Cape Girardeau, and Perry Counties. 

25 year old Eric Maldonado, of Cape Girardeau, has been arrested for burglary and stealing, with more charges expected to be filed by Stoddard, Bollinger, Perry, and Scott Counties. 

Officials say that a total of 18 burglaries in the multi county area have been cleared as a part of the joint investigation.

BUFF UP THE BLUFF SET FOR THIS WEEKEND 

Spring is here and that means it is time for Spring Cleaning.  

This year’s Buff up the Bluff event is set for this Saturday.  

The Poplar Bluff Leaf Disposal Site will be accepting items from 8 am to 3:30 pm. The site is located southeast of Twin Towers and signs will be posted. Proof of city residency is required.  

The materials to be accepted at the site include: 

BULKY ITEMS AND NON-GARBAGE SOLID WASTE  

BULK METAL ITEMS: 

(Refrigerators, Freezers and Air Conditioners MUST have compressors removed before bringing to site). If compressors aren't removed, items will not be accepted!!! 

No Loads of asphalt shingles.

No Trash from business or construction sites. NO PAINT. (empty paint cans ok.)  

OTHER BULKY ITEMS: 

Furniture, Carpeting, Construction Materials 

LIMBS AND BRUSH:             (NO LIMBS, BRUSH PICKED UP FOR ELDERLY)

Limbs and brush will be accepted at clean-up site, no logs or stumps, no wire or metal, must be of manageable size. These items will have to be unloaded by individuals bringing to clean-up site. 

TIRES

Tires will be accepted by Ozark Foothills Recycling with the following charges:

Passenger - $3.00         Large Truck - $7.00 (IF ON RIMS THE CHARGE IS DOUBLED) 

LEAVES:

Leaves will be placed in a separate pile from all other materials. Each person bringing leaves will be responsible for removing them from the vehicle and containers. No plastic bags or foreign material may be left at leaf disposal site.”

EARLY CHILDHOOD RESOURCE FAIR SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF 

An early childhood resource fair will be held this weekend in Poplar Bluff.  

The Silly Saturday event is scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm Saturday at the Bess Activity Center on the campus of Three Rivers College.  

The fair will feature entertainment, games, crafts, and activities for children up to eight years old as well as resource information for parents.

Thursday, April 11, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MURDER CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff man is facing a murder charge in connection to a shooting in the Thayer area.

Officials with the Thayer Police Department tell KWOC News that on Tuesday night authorities received a report of multiple gunshots and a male bleeding.

The victim, identified as 39 year old Daniel Carroll, of Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

An investigation into the incident led to the arrest of 25 year old Kahlil Gregory Omar Smith, of Poplar Bluff, on charges of Murder 1st Degree and Armed Criminal Action.

Smith was transported to the Oregon County Jail and his bond has been set at one million dollars.

ALLEGED ABDUCTION IN POPLAR BLUFF LEADS TO MULTI-STATE SEARCH, NO ARRESTS MADE

Police officials tell KWOC News that they were contacted about a possible abduction in the Pershing Street area on Wednesday as well a report of shots being fired.

Poplar Bluff Police Lieutenant Josh Stewart says that subjects advised police that a female was at an area residence when a vehicle arrived with three males.

One of the males then allegedly exited the vehicle, barged into the house, assaulted the female, and drug her to a separate vehicle. Both vehicles then left the area with four or five shots allegedly being fired from one of the cars.

Police tracked one of the vehicles into Arkansas and both the man and woman were located between Truman and Marked Tree. The female told authorities that she was fine and had not contacted police.

Stewart says that no arrests have been made since the woman told authorities she was fine and had not been abducted. Officials also did not find any corroborating evidence to support that a firearm had been discharged or was in the men's possession.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN FACING STATUTORY RAPE CHARGE

An investigation by the SEMO Cyber Crimes Task Force has led to the arrest of a Southeast Missouri man on a statutory rape charge.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, in February, the Task Force received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, regarding a potential sexual relationship between a 29 year old male and a 15 year old female.

The information indicated that the two communicated through Facebook and had met in person on multiple occasions.

The man, identified as 29 year old Bryan Lindley, of Benton, along with the teenager and her mother were located at a residence in rural Scott County.

Interviews with the three revealed that Lindley was carrying on an intimate relationship with the 15 year old female.

Lindley was arrested and transported to the Scott County Jail where he is currently being held on a $50,000 bond for the charge of Statutory Rape.

POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENT SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Poplar Bluff resident was seriously injured earlier this week in a single vehicle wreck.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Ernest Luellen, of Poplar Bluff, was driving on Highway 51 near Qulin Tuesday afternoon when his vehicle ran off the left side of the road, struck an embankment, and overturned.

A passenger in the vehicle suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. Luellen suffered minor injuries.

NO STUDENTS INJURED FOLLOWING WRECK INVOLVING A SIKESTON SCHOOL BUS

Officials with the Sikeston R-6 school district say that no one was injured after a school bus was involved in a wreck on Wednesday.

According to the school district, Sikeston R-6 bus number 16 was involved in an accident Wednesday afternoon on Pine and Malone.

The bus was carrying senior high students along with fifth and sixth grade students at the time of the wreck. The students were all moved to another bus to finish out their scheduled bus route.

COUNTERFEIT MONEY REPORTED IN THE QULIN AREA

Qulin city officials are advising area residents to check their money.

According to the City of Qulin Facebook page, there have been recent reports of counterfeit money being circulated in the area.

Officials say residents should check for anything that looks abnormal on the front and back of the bills. You can also use a Counterfeit Detector Pen.

Anyone who has questions can go to the Qulin City Hall.

CULVERT PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF RIPLEY COUNTY ROAD

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

The work zone will be located 3 miles south of the Route 142 Junction.

Work is schedule to take place today, weather permitting, from 8 am to 3 pm.

Wednesday, April 10, 2019

JACKS FORK RIVER REOPENED FOLLOWING BRIDGE REMOVAL

Officials have reopened a portion of the Jacks Fork River at Alley Spring.

The river had been closed due to flooding in April 2017 and February 2018 that caused structural damage to a pedestrian bridge, making it unsafe for visitors below and prompting an emergency closure of the river beneath the bridge.

The bridge has been completely removed, allowing floaters and river users to safely enjoy the Jacks Fork River beneath the Highway 106 vehicle bridge.

The National Park Service and Federal Highway Administration are working together on the construction of a new pedestrian bridge at Alley Spring in the future. No timeline for completion of the project was available.

WOMAN ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON BURGLARY AND STEALING WARRANT

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an East Prairie woman on a burglary warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 39 year old Nancy Ann Sylvester was recently taken into custody on a warrant for 2nd degree burglary and stealing $750 or more.

Her bond was set at $5,000 and officials say she remained in custody as of this morning.

PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN CARTER COUNTY

A public meeting has been scheduled for today in Carter County.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, members of the Carter County Transportation Advisory Committee will be meeting with the general public beginning at 10 am this morning at the Carter County Courthouse in Van Buren.

The meeting is about transportation issues and priorities within the county.

For more information, contact Andrew Murphy at 573-785-6402.

MOTORISTS ADVISED TO BE SAFE WITH AN INCREASE OF FARM VEHICLES ON THE ROAD

We are fully into spring and officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol are advising motorists to be safe with the increase of farm machinery on the road.

Motorists are being asked to stay alert for slow moving farm equipment. When you come up behind a tractor or other farm machinery, slow down, and be patient. Wait to pass until you have a clear view of the road ahead and there is no oncoming traffic. Never pass on a hill or curve.

Collisions commonly occur when a motorist tries to pass a left-turning farm vehicle. A tractor that appears to be pulling to the right side of the road to let motorists pass, instead may be preparing to make a wide left turn. Watch the farmer’s hand and light signals closely.

Highway Patrol officials say there were 171 Missouri traffic crashes involving farm equipment in 2017. In those crashes, five people were killed and 40 were injured.

Coming up tomorrow we will cover tips for farmers who will be driving their farm equipment on area highways.

CAMPAIGN ENCOURAGING MISSOURIANS TO PICK UP LITTER TO BEGIN THIS WEEKEND

The Missouri Department of Transportation is encouraging area residents to pick up litter.

Missouri’s 17th annual No MOre Trash! Bash will begin this weekend and focuses on “spring cleaning” the outdoors by asking residents to pick up litter throughout the state from April 15th through May 15th.

Trash Bash activities in April will also include educational efforts in schools, community events, Earth Day celebrations, and more.

In 2018, over 65 thousand bags of litter and several truckloads of debris were picked up during the spring No MOre Trash! Bash.

Volunteers are needed across the state to participate in this year’s litter cleanup activities. For more information and to learn how to participate, visit NoMoreTrash.org or call 1-888-ASK-MODOT.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT

Route F in Stoddard County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

MoDot officials say the section of roadway to be closed is located from Route J to County Road 424.

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

Tuesday April 9, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT TRYING TO IDENTIFY INDIVIDUALS IN CONNECTION TO INVESTIGATION 

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying two individuals.  

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, during the early morning hours of March 31st, two individuals forced entry into a residence on the 400 block of Lester Street.  

Officials say that a hidden camera inside the residence was able to take photos of both of the individuals.   

We have the photos available on our Facebook page.  

Anyone who has information regarding the identity of the individuals is asked to contact Detective Dan Mustain at 573-686-8632.

CITY OF QULIN TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING TODAY 

The City of Qulin has announced that they will be hosting a public hearing this evening.  

Officials say the hearing is to discuss the city’s submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant and the city is interested in obtaining all citizens’ input on community development needs. 

City officials are proposing to repair the existing road bed, address settlement issues, overlay, and pave sections of First, Second, Fourth, Fifth, and Connecticut streets. The project is estimated to cost over $282,000. 

The public hearing has been scheduled for 5 pm today at the Qulin City Hall. For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Glen Sedrick at 573-328-4488.

KINDERGARTEN TEACHER CHOSEN AS POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL DISTRICT TEACHER OF THE YEAR 

A teacher at the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center has been chosen as the Poplar Bluff School District’s teacher of the year.  

Officials say that Amanda Summers was selected as the district wide teacher of the year. Summers has taught at the Kindergarten Center since 2012 after gaining several years experience as a second grade teacher in Poplar Bluff. 

The annual Teacher of the Year luncheon was held last week, recognizing a teacher from each of R-I's 10 buildings. Of the top teachers, a teacher of the year is selected to represent the elementary, middle school and secondary grade spans.  

Of those grade-span winners, Summers was selected as the district-wide teacher of the year. We have a full list of the winners available on our website. 

Amanda Summers: Kindergarten Center, elementary grade-span and district Teacher of the Year 

James Hunt: middle school grade-span and Middle School Teacher of the Year 

Meg Daniels: secondary grade-span and High School Teacher of the Year 

Denni White: Technical Career Center Teacher of the Year 

Britney Stahl: Junior High Teacher of the Year 

Christie Risinger: O'Neal Teacher of the Year 

Becky Ingle: Oak Grove Teacher of the Year 

Kasi Aldridge: Lake Road Teacher of the Year 

Jennifer Morin: Eugene Field Teacher of the Year 

Traci Durham-Allen: Early Childhood Center Teacher of the Year

DELAY ANNOUNCED FOR THE OPENING OF THE SHELBY ROAD EXTENSION 

Poplar Bluff Residents are going to have to wait a little while longer for the new Shelby Road extension to be available.  

Poplar Bluff officials say that the opening of the new extension has been delayed so that crews can install new fencing along the roadway.  

The delay is expected to be four to six weeks.

TWO ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE WARRANTS IN STODDARD COUNTY 

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

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 37 year old Cody Miller, of Dexter, was recently arrested on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance.  

Authorities have also arrested 25 year old Trenton Arnold, of Bell City, on a warrant for possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.  

Officials say that Miller and Arnold each remained in jail as of this morning on a $7,500 bond. It was not released if the two arrests were connected.

EARTHQUAKE SHAKES PARTS OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

Did you feel the earthquake that hit parts of Southeast Missouri on Monday? 

According to the United States Geological Survey, a 2.1 magnitude earthquake was at around 12:09 pm Monday afternoon.  

The earthquake was centered around 37 miles east southeast of Poplar Bluff and had a depth of just over two miles. 

Monday April 8, 2019

ONE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOLLOWING DRUG BUST IN REYNOLDS COUNTY 

Authorities in Reynolds County have arrested an area man in connection to a narcotics investigation.  

According to the Reynolds County Sheriff’s Department, last week a search warrant was obtained for a Bunker residence as a part of an investigation by the South Central Drug Task Force.  

The search warrant was served on Wednesday and officers seized approximately two pounds of marijuana, 115 grams of suspected Psilocybin mushrooms, a quantity of suspected LSD, 15 firearms, and United States currency. 

40 year old Rickey Holt Jr., of Bunker, was arrested and incarcerated pending warrant applications. A second suspect was identified during the investigation and officials say charges will be requested.

POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER ACCEPTING SCREENING APPOINTMENTS FOR HALF DAY PROGRAM 

The Poplar Bluff Early Childhood Center is accepting screening appointments for the 2019-2020 school year.  

If you are a parent in the Poplar Bluff R-1 School District and have a child who will be three or four years old on July 31st, you can call 573-785-6803 for more information about having your child screened.  

The next screening for new incoming students will be held by appointment only on Wednesday, May 22nd. Officials say that you must have your child’s social security number available when calling to make an appointment.  

WORK TO BEGIN TODAY TO REPLACE A BRIDGE ON ROUTE 53 IN DUNKLIN COUNTY 

Work is scheduled to begin today to replace the Route 53 bridge over Malarial Ditch in Dunklin County.  

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge is located between Route J and County Road 101, just east of the Butler/Dunklin County line.  

As construction is underway, traffic will utilize a temporary bypass with an 11-foot width restriction. Officials say that work will continue through Monday, July 1.  

AREA TEENAGER FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK 

A Portageville teenager was badly injured in a single vehicle wreck over the weekend.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 16 year old female was driving on New Madrid County Road 363 Saturday afternoon when her vehicle slid on the gravel road and overturned.  

The teenager suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

DEXTER MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOR BURGLARY WARRANT 

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

Officials with the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that 35 year old Thomas Lubish, of Dexter, was recently taken into custody on a warrant for Burglary 2nd.  

Lubish’s bond was set at $17,500, cash only, and officials say he remained in jail as of this morning.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE TO POSSIBLY CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON INTERSTATE 55 

Northbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced with a 12-foot width restriction today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge maintenance. 

MoDOT officials say the section of roadway to be reduced is located between mile markers 15 and 16.5. 

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7 am to 4 pm.

Friday, April 5, 2019

TARIFF EXEMPTIONS GRANTED FOR MID CONTINENT STEEL AND WIRE

A Poplar Bluff business has been granted an exemption from steel tariffs.

Mid Continent Steel and Wire announced on Thursday that the U.S. Department of Commerce has approved exclusions from Section 232 tariffs for the company. The exclusions cover close to nine-tenths of the volume of imported steel that Mid Continent uses.

Mid Continent, maker of Magnum Nails, applied for the exemptions from the 25 percent tariffs, on June 18th, shortly after Section 232 duties were extended to cover Canada and Mexico, a major source of raw material for the nail manufacturer.

In its requests, Mid Continent showed that U.S. steelmakers could not provide the volume of raw material that the manufacturer required.

A news release from the company says that the tariffs had a damaging effect on Mid Continent's business – in large part because the company's foreign competitors could make nails abroad and export them to the U.S., free of the Section 232 duties. Mid Continent's manufacturing workforce fell from more than 500 to less than 300.

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE IN BUTLER COUNTY

A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle Thursday morning in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle was making a left turn onto the Highway 67 North ramp at Business 67 when the vehicle struck a 25 year old Poplar Bluff man. The incident occurred shortly after 5 am.

The man suffered serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital. No injuries were listed for the driver of the vehicle.

WATER PROBLEM TO CAUSE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT TO MISS CLASSES TODAY

An area school district will not be having classes today because of water problems.

School has been cancelled for today in the Corning School District. A post on the school district’s website says that the closure is due to a water line problem at Park Elementary School.

The post says that schools will be using Friday as AMI Day 2 and teachers will be available according to plans sent home earlier this year.

INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST IN THEFT OF BUILDING MATERIALS FROM AREA BUSINESS

An arrest has been made in connection to the theft of approximately $1,600 worth of building materials from an area business.

Portageville Police Chief Ronnie Adams tells KWOC News that the theft occurred during the early morning hours of Tuesday, April 2nd at Woods Lumber Company.

Footage showed a white male pulling an ATV into the back lot of the business, loading two wooden pallets onto a trailer, and driving away.

Officers were able to identify the suspect as 22 year old Kyle Woods, from Lilbourn. Woods was arrested in New Madrid for a similar incident and was being held in the Pemiscot County Justice Center.

Adams says that during an interview, Woods admitted to taking the items. After further investigation, it was discovered the trailer was stolen from another local business in Portageville and the ATV is believed to have been stolen from the Sikeston area.

Woods is currently being held at the Pemiscot County Justice Center and formal charges are pending.

5TH ANNUAL BADGE OF HONOR BENEFIT RUN SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND

The 5th Annual Badge of Honor Benefit Run is scheduled to be held this weekend.

The Benefit Run will be held on Saturday at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff. The event, which will include a 5k, 10k, and Half Marathon, is scheduled to begin at 9 am.

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

MUSICAL BASED ON A BOARD GAME TO BE PERFORMED IN POPLAR BLUFF

A musical performance by the Three Rivers College community theatre group has been scheduled for next week.

Center Stage will be performing “Clue: The Musical” beginning on April 11th at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center in Poplar Bluff.

The show will begin at 7 pm on April 11th, 12th and 13th, with a 2 pm performance following on April 14th.

Tickets are available for $10 each at the Three Rivers Student Accounts Office as well as online at trcc.edu/tinnin. Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door before the show.

Thursday. April 4, 2019

JOB AND COLLEGE TRANSFER FAIR SET FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

The annual spring Job Fair will be held today in Poplar Bluff.

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

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

MISSING MAN FOUND DEAD IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Updating a story we brought you last month, a man who was reported missing has been found dead in Pemiscot County.

According to the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Office, on Tuesday a farmer advised authorities that he found a dead body in a field near Hayti.

The body has been identified as 64 year old William Swinton, of Kennett.

Swinton was last seen on March 10th leaving a hospital in Hayti on foot.

Officials say that an autopsy will be conducted on Friday to determine a cause of death.

CITY OF QULIN TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING NEXT WEEK

The City of Qulin has announced that they will be hosting a public hearing next week.

Officials say the hearing is to discuss the city’s submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant and the city is interested in obtaining all citizens’ input on community development needs within the city.

The city is proposing to repair the existing road bed, address settlement issues, overlay, and pave sections of First, Second, Fourth, Fifth, and Connecticut streets. The project is estimated to cost over $282,000.

The public hearing has been scheduled for 5:00 pm on April 9th at the Qulin City Hall. For more information on the proposed project, contact Mayor Glen Sedrick at 573-328-4488.

DATE SET FOR 20TH ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT

A date has been set for the 20th Annual Poplar Bluff School Foundation Golf Tournament

The tournament is scheduled to begin at noon on Friday, April 26th, at Ozark Ridge Golf Course. Lunch will be served at 11 am.

All proceeds from the event will go to support the foundation.

If you would like to enter a team, or became a hole sponsor, contact administrative assistant to the superintendent, Carla Thompson, at 573-785-7751, extension 9.

EARTHQUAKE RECORDED TUESDAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

A small earthquake was recorded Tuesday in New Madrid County.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a 2.1 magnitude earthquake occurred at 11:15 pm Tuesday night.

The earthquake was centered approximately 28 miles south of Sikeston and had a depth of just over five miles.

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT

Route M in Dunklin County will be closed today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can replace a pipe beneath the roadway.

Officials say the closure will be located between Route 25 and Route 153.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7 am to 3 pm.

Wednesday, April 3, 2019

ELECTIONS HELD FOR CITY COUNCIL POSITIONS IN BUTLER COUNTY

Multiple area city council races were decided during election day on Tuesday.

Lisa Armes Parson won the seat representing Ward 1 on the Poplar Bluff City Council over Kit Skaggs.

In Neelyville, John Knowles defeated Dana Blagg for the Ward 1 Alderman position.

Voters in Fisk were split almost evenly for the councilman position representing Ward 1 with Kristi Wilkerson winning over Jeff Ledbetter by one vote.

A two million dollar bond issue was also approved for Public Water Supply and Sewerage District #4 of Wayne and Butler Counties.

SCHOOL BOARD ELECTIONS HELD TUESDAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Multiple area school boards elections were held yesterday in Butler County.

For the Twin Rivers School District, the top two were Gordon Lee Wright and Bruce Goodrich.

The two candidates to receive the most votes for the Neelyville School District were Jack Stull and Jill McGruder.

For the Doniphan School District, the two winning candidates were Riley March and Steven Ivy.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN CONVICTED FOR STATUTORY RAPE AND MOLESTATION

A Southeast Missouri man was convicted last week in Wayne County on multiple charges including statutory rape.

Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt tells KWOC News that 30 year old Daniel Martin, was convicted by a Wayne County jury on March 27th of three counts of statutory sodomy 1st degree, one count of statutory rape 1st degree, one count of attempted statutory rape 1st degree, one count of attempted statutory sodomy 1st degree, and three counts of child molestation 3rd degree.

Schmitt says that the defendant sexually abused a child for several months at a home in Bollinger County.

Sentencing has been scheduled for July 17th and Martin faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.

CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR VARIOUS ROAD PROJECTS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Contracts were awarded yesterday by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for various road projects in Southeast Missouri.

A 6.8 million dollar contract was awarded for pavement improvements on Route 142 from Route EE near Thayer, to west of Route 160 near Doniphan.

An over $432,000 contract was awarded for slope repairs at various locations along Route 67 and Route 60 in Butler, Carter, Madison, and Shannon counties.

Bridge replacement contracts were also given for bridges on Route HH and Route K in Pemiscot County, along with Route AA in New Madrid County.

Officials say that additional information, including timelines and impacts to traffic, will be released prior to the start of construction.

BUSINESS 60 IN STODDARD COUNTY TO BE REDUCED TODAY

Business Route 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform edge rut repairs.

This section of roadway is located from north Mulberry and north Catalpa.

Weather permitting, work will take place Wednesday, April 3 from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SET FOR TODAY IN RIPLEY COUNTY

Route B in Ripley County will be reduced today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform pavement overlay.

Officials say the work zone will be located from Route 160 to Route 142.

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

Tuesday, April 2, 2019

SEAT ON THE POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL UP FOR ELECTION

A seat on the Poplar Bluff City Council, as well as other city posts throughout Butler County, are up for election today.

Kit Skaggs and Lisa Armes Parson are both running for the Ward 1 seat on the Poplar Bluff City Council.

Voters in Neelyville will also be selecting an alderman today. Dana Blagg will be taking on John Knowles for the Neelyville Ward 1 Alderman position.

In Fisk, voters will choose between Jeff Ledbetter and Kristi Wilkerson for the councilman position representing Ward 1.

There is also a two million dollar bond issue to be decided today for Public Water Supply and Sewerage District #4 of Wayne and Butler Counties.

VOTERS TO DECIDE ON SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Multiple area school boards will be holding elections today in Butler County.

For the Twin Rivers School District, the candidates for two school board seats are Jeff Arnold, Bruce Goodrich, Gordon Lee Wright, and Dennis Whitlow.

In Neelyville, three people are running for two board seats, Donna Akers, Jack Stull, and Jill McGruder.

For the Naylor School Board, voters will choose two of Brent Day, Brian Cannon, and Jerry Cullison.

In the Doniphan School District, there are six candidates for the two board seats, Deborah Lathum, Robert Morrow, Riley March, Daniel Kellas, Denver Jackson, and Steven Ivy.

CITY OF FISK TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING TODAY

The City of Fisk has announced that they will be hosting a public hearing today.

Officials say the hearing is to discuss the city’s submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant and the city is interested in obtaining all citizens’ input on community development needs within the city.

The city is proposing to repair the existing road bed, address settlement issues, and overlay and pave all or sections of various streets within the city. The project is estimated to cost approximately $300,000.

The public hearing has been scheduled for 5:30 pm this evening at the Fisk City Hall.

ONE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY WRECK

One person was seriously injured in a wreck yesterday in the Missouri Bootheel.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Ryan Robertson, of Armstrong, Illinois, was driving on US Highway 412 in Pemiscot County when he struck the rear of another vehicle.

Officials say the wreck occurred at around 10:45 am.

Robertson suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was transported to a Tennessee hospital.

DELAYS POSSIBLE THIS WEEK ON HIGHWAY 60

Eastbound Route 60 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 13-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

Officials say the section of roadway to be reduced is located east of Route 61 before the Saint John’s Diversion Ditch.

Weather permitting, work will begin this morning at 7 am and the area will remain closed overnight. The work zone will be taken down on Thursday at around noon.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE ROAD CLOSURE TODAY

Route D in New Madrid County will be closed beginning today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can replace a culvert beneath the roadway.

Officials say the work zone will be located between Route UU and County Road 556.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 am to 3:30 pm daily through Thursday, April 4th.

Monday, April 1, 2019

SUSPECTED HEROIN, FENTANYL, AND AR15 FOUND IN POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENCE

An investigation last week resulted in the discovery of multiple drugs and over $15,000 at a residence in Poplar Bluff.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tell KWOC News that Friday night officers were conducting an investigation of a suspected stolen vehicle on Hampton Court.

During the investigation, officers were able to locate the vehicle and secure a residence along with numerous suspects.

A search warrant was obtained for the residence and officers located a quantity of suspected heroin, fentanyl, and marijuana along with an AR15 rifle and $17,500 in a safe.

Officials say that more information in regards to the suspects will be forthcoming.

ONE DEAD, ANOTHER INJURED FOLLOWING NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

One person has died, while another is injured, following a wreck over the weekend in Northeast Arkansas.

Officials with the Arkansas State Police tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred Saturday night on Highway 63 in the Sedgwick area.

A vehicle, driven by 21 year old Zachary Brooks, of Bono, reportedly attempted to veer left across all lanes of traffic and was struck in the driver’s side by another vehicle.

Officials say that Brooks died from injuries he received in the wreck. The driver of the second vehicle was injured and transported to a Memphis hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES

Authorities in Butler County have arrested a local man on multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 28 year old Skylar Watkins, of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody Friday night on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine, tampering with physical evidence, and endangering the welfare of a child.

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

PUXICO POLICE AND FIRE DEPARTMENTS ARE COLLECTING SHOES FOR CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE

Authorities in Puxico are collecting shoes to aid in this year’s Christmas Toy Drive.

The Puxico Police and Fire Departments are collecting gently worn, used, or new shoes through July 11th.

Shoes can be donated at the police department or at Bill's Market.

The police department will also be picking up shoes on April 13th. All residents have to do is collect shoes together in a bag or box and place them on your door step.

Officials say that the group they are using for the shoe drive will give them 40 cents per pound of shoes that they collect and all money will go towards the toy drive at the end of the year to help children at Christmas time.

Anyone with questions can contact Chief Rick Sheren or Corporeal Brandon Throop at 573-222-3565

DONIPHAN CLEAN UP EVENT TO BE HELD IN EARLY MAY

An event has been scheduled for early May to help clean up the city of Doniphan.

The 2nd Annual Unity for Our Community Doniphan City Clean Up will be held on Saturday, May 4th. Registration will begin at 8 am at First Church of God, with the clean up going from 9 am to 12:30 pm. A safety vest, gloves, and bags will be provided.

More information is available on the 2nd Annual Unity For Our Community Doniphan City Clean Up Facebook page.

DRAINAGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route 25 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane beginning today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform drainage repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route AF to James Drive near Dexter

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

Friday, March 29, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT TRYING TO LOCATE SUSPECT WHO FLED LEAVING METH AND FIREARM

Poplar Bluff police are attempting to locate a suspect who fled from a traffic stop and left behind drugs.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley tells KWOC News that a person ran from an officer during the stop Thursday morning.

Whiteley says that the suspect left a gun, marijuana, and methamphetamine behind.

The suspect is described as a white or Hispanic Male and he was driving a white Cadillac Deville.

MULTIPLE EXPLOSIONS REPORTED DURING FIRE IN KENNETT

No one was injured in a fire yesterday at a residence in Kennett.

According to the Kennett Fire Department, shortly after 9 am, authorities were alerted to a garage fire on Emerson Street.

As the first engine arrived, exploding gas cylinders intensified the fire and a residence to the west began to suffer damage due to the extreme heat.

Officials say there were approximately over 20 explosions that occurred from various pressurized cylinders.

The garage, home, and two vehicles are being considered a total loss.

MAN ARRESTED AFTER PURSUIT WITH POLICE

Authorities in New Madrid County have arrested a man following a pursuit on Thursday.

According to the New Madrid Police Department, Thursday morning an officer saw a car go through a construction area and recognized the passenger as Christopher Brewer, who had two felony warrants for his arrest.

The officer stopped the car and Brewer immediately fled on foot.

Brewer entered an area property and climbed to the top of a white tank.

Officials say that once Brewer realized that officers were below him and there was no way out, he climbed down and gave up with no further resistance.

He is being held without bond on the outstanding warrants and officers are seeking new charges for resisting arrest.

WOMEN’S HEALTH OPEN HOUSE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY AT JOHN J. PERSHING VA MEDICAL CENTER

An open house will be held today at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff.

The Women’s Health Open House has been scheduled for 2 pm to 6 pm at the VA Medical Center’s new Women’s Health Clinic.

There will be an introduction to the Whole Health class at 2 pm followed by a meet and greet with the Pink PACT staff at 3 pm.

The special guest speaker will be Jill McGruder, the new Director of Women’s Health at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center.

CITY OF FISK TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARING NEXT WEEK

The City of Fisk has announced that they will be hosting a public hearing next week.

Officials say the hearing is to discuss the city’s submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant and the city is interested in obtaining all citizens’ input on community development needs within the city.

The city is proposing to repair the existing road bed, address settlement issues, and overlay and pave all or sections of various streets within Fisk. The project is estimated to cost approximately $300,000.

The public hearing has been scheduled for 5:30 pm on April 2nd at the Fisk City Hall.

WHOLE KIDS OUTREACH TO HOST EASTER EGG HUNT AND SPRING FESTIVAL IN EARLY APRIL

A Southeast Missouri service organization will be hosting a spring festival early next month.

The Whole Kids Outreach Easter Egg Hunt and Spring Festival is scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, April 6th, 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.

Thursday March 28, 2019

MULTIPLE BUTLER COUNTY COMMUNITIES UNDER BOIL WATER ADVISORIES 

Multiple communities in Butler County are currently advising their residents to boil their water.  

Public Water Supply District #104 in Butler County has issued a boil water advisory until further notice due to a cleaning of the water tower.  

A post on the City of Qulin facebook page says that the city is under a Precautionary Boil Water Advisory due to low water pressure until further notice.  

The City of Fisk is also under a precautionary boil water order until further notice.  

Officials with the Twin Rivers School in Fisk say that bottled water is available for students at the school free of charge, but parents are being asked to send a bottle of water, sports drink, or a thermos with your children to school, if you can, to help keep them hydrated throughout the day.

PIEDMONT MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE AND WARRANT 

Authorities in Wayne County have arrested an area man on a drug charge and a warrant.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 20 year old Robert Lehto, of Piedmont, was taken into custody Wednesday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine as well as a felony warrant out of Wayne County for possession of a controlled substance.  

Following the arrest, Lehto was held at the Wayne County Jail.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON ROUTE 60 IN BUTLER COUNTY 

Eastbound Route 60 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

The section of Route 60 to be reduced is located between Route Z and Route DD. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 am to 4:30 pm both today and tomorrow.

YOUNG CHILD SERIOUSLY INJURED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY WRECK 

A young child has been flown to an area hospital following a two vehicle wreck in Dunklin County.  

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred shortly after 5:30 pm Wednesday on Highway 53, north of Campbell. 

A vehicle driven by 32 year old Melissa Kirby, of Kennett, reportedly crossed the center of the roadway and struck another vehicle. A young child in Kirby’s vehicle was seriously injured in the wreck and flown to a Memphis hospital.  

Kirby and the driver of the other vehicle both received moderate injuries. Kirby was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital while the other driver was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.  

A Highway Patrol arrest report says that Kirby is facing charges of driving while intoxicated, failure to drive on the right half of the roadway, and failure to secure a child who is less than eight years old in child restraint or booster seat.

BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY 

Route CC in Butler County will be closed today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform a pipe replacement. 

The section of roadway to be closed is located between Route U and Route FF. 

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to be performed from 8:30 am to 3 pm.

AREA POLICE DEPARTMENT RECEIVES $1,500 DONATION 

An area police department has received an over $1,000 donation to help purchase a new K-9 officer.  

Country Financial announced on Wednesday that the Dexter Police Department was a 2019 recipient of a $1,500 COUNTRY Financial Operation Helping Heroes Donation. 

The City of Dexter began raising funds last year to reactivate their K-9 program. The Dexter Police Department utilizes the program for narcotic detection, building searches, crowd control, and handler protection.

INFORMATIONAL MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TODAY TO DISCUSS UPCOMING BRIDGE REPLACEMENT NEAR NAYLOR 

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation tell KWOC News that an informational public meeting will be held today to discuss an upcoming bridge replacement near Naylor.  

The meeting has been scheduled for 4 to 6 pm in the cafeteria of Naylor High School. 

The project to be discussed is the replacement of the Route 142 Bridge over Little Black River, located approximately one and a half miles north of Naylor. The new bridge will be wider than the existing structure. 

The project is expected to be let in February 2020, with construction beginning as early as April 2020. As construction is underway, Route 142 will be closed to through traffic in the vicinity of the bridge for approximately three months. Completion is anticipated in fall 2020.

Wednesday, March 27, 2019

DATE SET FOR 1ST ANNUAL CURRENT RIVER HERITAGE DAYS IN DONIPHAN

A date has been set for the 1st Annual Current River Heritage Days in Doniphan.

The event will be held on April 12th and 13th and will feature live music, a wide variety of vendors, free fun for the kids, mule rides, and more in downtown Doniphan.

There will also be a motorcycle show and classic car cruise in.

EASTER EGG HUNT TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE

An Easter Egg Hunt has been scheduled for next month at Wappapello Lake.

The event, from the US Army Corps of Engineers and the University of Missouri Extension, will begin at 1 pm on April 18th at the Wappapello Lake Visitors Center on T Highway.

Entry is free for all ages and there will also be prizes available.

REGISTRATION UNDERWAY FOR MEN’S AND WOMEN’S SOFTBALL IN POPLAR BLUFF

Registration is underway for adult men’s and women’s softball in Poplar Bluff.

Officials with Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation say that team registration packets for the summer softball leagues are available at the Park Department office. Registration will end on April 19th.

A league meeting will be held on Thursday, March 28th at the Parks and Recreation Office located at 430 North Second Street. The men’s meeting will begin at 6 pm and the women’s meeting will begin at 7 pm. Each team should have a representative at the meeting.

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

MAGNITUDE 2.8 EARTHQUAKE SHAKES MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

An earthquake shook Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas Tuesday afternoon.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.8 earthquake was recorded at 3:07 pm Tuesday.

The center of the quake was approximately 18 miles southeast of Kennett and it had a depth of just over six miles.

PUBLIC MEETING WITH THE RIPLEY COUNTY TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE SET FOR TODAY

A public meeting concerning transportation has been scheduled for today in Ripley County.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, members of the Ripley County Transportation Advisory Committee will be hosting the meeting beginning at 10 am at the Ripley County Courthouse in Doniphan.

Subjects to be discussed include transportation issues and priorities within the county.

For more information, contact Andrew Murphy at 573-785-6402.

BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR DRAINAGE REPAIRS

Route CC in Butler County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform drainage repairs.

The work zone will be located between County Road 664 and Route U.

Work is scheduled to be performed from 8 am to 3 pm.

CONSTRUCTION NEARING COMPLETION ON NEW ROUTE 53 BRIDGE OVER ST. FRANCIS RIVER

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation tell KWOC News that construction of the new Route 53 bridge over the St. Francis River in Dunklin County is nearing completion.

While contractor crews are completing roadway connections for the new bridge, Route 53 traffic will be reduced to one lane with an 11-foot width restriction between County Road 218 and County Road 101.

Officials say that the reductions will begin today and continue through Wednesday, April 24th.

PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE ROAD CLOSURE TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

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

Officials say that Route D will be closed today from 8 am to 3 pm between Route JJ and Route W.

Tuesday March 26, 2019

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY A VEHICLE 

A pedestrian has died after being hit by a vehicle in Reynolds County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 28 year old Seth Bryson, of Richland, was struck by a vehicle on Highway 72 at around 1:30 am Monday morning.  

Officials say that Bryson was pronounced dead at the scene by Reynolds County Coroner Jeffrey McSpadden.

PRESCHOOL SCREENING AND KINDERGARTEN ENROLLMENT TO BE HELD TODAY AT TWIN RIVERS FISK CAMPUS 

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

Kindergarten enrollment for children turning the age of five before August 1st, 2019 in addition to preschool screening will be held 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.  

Information will also be available for applying for Head Start and Early Childhood Programs for children who will be three years old before August 1st.  

To make an appointment, call 967-3607.

OVER MONTH LONG ROAD PROJECT UNDERWAY IN WAYNE COUNTY 

An over a month long road project is underway in Wayne County.  

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation Southbound Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with a 16-foot width restriction just south of County Road 404 so contractor crews can perform erosion repairs.  

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 am to 5:30 pm daily through Tuesday, April 30th.

JAKE OWEN AND AARON TIPPEN COMING TO SIKESTON FOR JAYCEES BOOTHEEL RODEO 

The concert lineup has been announced for the 2019 Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo.  

The rodeo has been scheduled for August 7th through the 10th. In addition to the rodeo, there will be multiple concert acts including Jake Owen on Friday, August 9th and Midland on Saturday, August 10th.  

Morgan Wallen will be kicking off the rodeo on Wednesday, August 7th, followed by a triple feature on August 8th including Sammy Kershaw, Collin Raye, and Aaron Tippin.

DATE SET FOR 2019 BUFF UP THE BLUFF 

A date has been set for the 2019 Buff up the Bluff event.  

The citywide clean up event has been scheduled for Saturday, April 13th.  

There will also be curbside pickup available for the elderly this year.  

To arrange for pickup you must call 573-686-8622 between the dates of April 8th to April 11th and between the hours of 8 am and 4 pm.

BULLET AND STAB PROTECTIVE VEST DONATED TO PARAGOULD POLICE DEPARTMENT 

A Paragould K-9 officer has received a new protective vest.  

According to the Paragould Police Department, K9 Zyk has received a bullet and stab protective vest thanks to a charitable donation from the non-profit organization Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. 

The non-profit was established in 2009 to assist law enforcement agencies with this potentially lifesaving body armor for their four-legged K9 officers.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR DRAINAGE REPAIRS 

Route 25 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane for a couple of days as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform drainage repairs.  

The section of Route 25 to be reduced is located from James Drive to Route AF. 

Work is scheduled to take place from 7 am to 4 pm both today and tomorrow.

Monday March 25, 2019

POPLAR BLUFF MAN APPEARS IN COURT ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY AND SEXUAL EXPLOITATION CHARGES 

An area man appeared in a Dent County court last week on child pornography charges.  

According to Missouri Case Net, a warrant was served earlier this month on 42 year old Marvin Stephens, of Poplar Bluff, on two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor child and two counts of possession of child pornography.  

His arraignment was scheduled for March 21st and his bond has been set at $1,000,000.  

A bond reduction hearing has been scheduled for April 4th.

SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK INJURES TWO IN BROSELEY AREA 

Two people were injured over the weekend in a single vehicle wreck in Butler County.  

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, early Sunday morning a vehicle driven by 46 year old Jerry Hosentfeld, of Fisk, ran off the left side of Highway 51 in Broseley, struck a ditch, and overturned.  

Hosentfeld suffered moderate injuries in the wreck and a passenger in the vehicle received serious injuries. Both were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.  

According to a Highway Patrol arrest report, Hosentfeld is also facing charges of driving while intoxicated and failure to drive on the right half of the roadway.

BUTLER COUNTY TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO HOST MEETING TODAY 

The Butler County Transportation Advisory Committee will be hosting a public meeting today.  

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, the meeting has been scheduled for 9:30 to 10 am this morning at the Butler County Courthouse.  

The Committee will be discussing with the public the Planning Framework Process, transportation issues, and priorities within the county to present to the Missouri Department of Transportation.

AUTHORITIES IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WARN OF POSSIBLE POLICE IMPOSTER 

Authorities in Northeast Arkansas are warning the public about a possible police imposter.  

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells KWOC News on March 22, the Clay County Sheriff's Department received a call about a possible impersonation of a law enforcement vehicle.  

The vehicle attempted to pull over a citizen on Highway 49 near the Clay and Greene County line. The vehicle in question is a white or silver colored smaller SUV with blue lights. 

Miller says that if you come into contact with a vehicle that is attempting to pull you over, and you are unsure if it is law enforcement, call 911 immediately. Do not pull over if you are unsure.  

The 911 operator will be able to identify if the vehicle is a law enforcement officer or provide you with instructions to follow in case it is not.

WYATT MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES IN STODDARD COUNTY 

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

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 35 year old Anthony Pettigrew was taken into custody Sunday afternoon on felony charges of tampering with a motor vehicle 1st degree, operating a motor vehicle without a license, and resisting arrest.  

Following the arrest, Pettigrew was held at the Stoddard County Jail.

FREE SMOKE ALARM INSTALLATION EVENT TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF IN EARLY MAY 

An event has been scheduled for early May in Poplar Bluff to provide area residents with smoke alarms.  

The American Red Cross of Missouri and Arkansas has announced the launch of its spring Sound the Alarm Mission Campaign. The goal is to ‘sound the alarm’ about three critical ways to help save lives through the Red Cross mission:  smoke alarm installations, blood donations, and volunteer and financial donations. 

Volunteers in Poplar Bluff will assist in installing free smoke alarms in homes from noon to 4 pm on May 5th. Anyone needing a smoke alarm is asked to go online to GetASmokeAlarm.org or call 573-335-9471, ext. 1310. 

Numerous blood drives will be held throughout the Southeast Missouri area during the spring campaign. Blood and platelets are needed every day for accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease. 

You can make an appointment to donate blood by going to RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS. 

To volunteer or donate to the American Red Cross, go to RedCross.org/stamc for more information.  

DEXTER MAN FACING METH CHARGE FOLLOWING WEEKEND ARREST 

An area man was taken into custody Saturday on a felony meth charge.  

According to authorities, 30 year old Jacob Mikels, of Dexter, was arrested Saturday afternoon on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.  

Mikels was held in the Stoddard County Jail following his arrest.

Friday, March 22, 2019

STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED FOR MISSOURI DUE TO FLOODING

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has issued a state of emergency due to worsening conditions along the Missouri and Mississippi River systems.

In the declaration released Thursday, Parson said the conditions were due a result of release from upstream reservoirs, snow melt and excessive rainfall.

Governor Parson also activated the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan, which allows state agencies to coordinate directly with local jurisdictions. Earlier on Thursday, the Governor signed Executive Order 19-05 making the emergency declaration official.

Missouri residents are being cautioned to be careful around flooded areas.

You should avoid walking through floodwater and keep your children from playing in it. Also never attempt to drive over flooded roads. Remember that standing water can carry infectious diseases and hide hazards, such as road damage, glass, and sewage.

41ST ANNUAL OLD GREENVILLE RENDEZVOUS TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH

The 41st Annual Old Greenville Rendezvous has been scheduled for next month.

The event, presented by the Crowley’s Ridge Blackpowder Club and the US Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake, will be held from 9 am to dark on Saturday, April 27th, and 8 am to 3 pm on Sunday, April 28th, at the Greenville Campground.

There will be multiple events and entertainment options available and admission is free to the public.

For more information, call 573-300-9595.

REWARD OFFERED IN ELK POACHING INVESTIGATION

Authorities are still investigating an incident of elk poaching in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, two elk were shot in Shannon County on February 8th, near the Log Yard.

One of the elk was a 10-year-old bull, brought to Missouri from Kentucky in 2011. The other was an adult cow, born in Missouri.

MDC’s Protection Division Chief Randy Doman says it appears the poachers simply wanted to shoot elk for fun, or out of spite. Agents reported that in this poaching case, no parts of either animal were removed.

The Conservation Federation of Missouri and Operation Game Thief are now offering an $8,500 reward for information leading to the conviction of the poacher or poachers that shot the two elk. Anyone with information that could help with this investigation is encouraged to call the Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-800-392-1111.

PUBLIC MEETING WITH THE RIPLEY COUNTY TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE SET FOR NEXT WEEK

A public meeting concerning transportation has been scheduled for next week in Ripley County.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, members of the Ripley County Transportation Advisory Committee will be hosting the meeting beginning at 10 am on Wednesday, March 27th.

The event is scheduled to be held at the Ripley County Courthouse in Doniphan.

Subjects to be discussed include transportation issues and priorities within the county.

For more information, contact Andrew Murphy at 573-785-6402.

AREA POLICE DEPARTMENT WARNING OF PHONE SCAM

Officials with an area police department are warning residents about a reported phone scam.

According to the Portageville Police Department, an 800 number is calling residents and claiming to be the Social Security Office.

The caller is stating that your Social Security number has been compromised and wants you to call them back.

Officials say you should not return the call.

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

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

The work zone will be located between County Road 556 and Route UU.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 am to 3 pm.

Thursday March 21, 2019

TWO DONIPHAN MEN ARRESTED IN RIPLEY COUNTY 

Authorities in Ripley County have taken two Doniphan men into custody on separate warrants.  

According to Ripley County Sheriff Mike Barton, the sheriff’s office recently arrested Ronald Eddy Rutledge and Christopher Ervin Lott.  

Both men were apprehended after being spotted by a deputy at an area residence.  

Barton says that Rutledge was found hiding in a bathtub inside the residence and Lott was found hiding under a child's bed. Marijuana and methamphetamine were also found where Lott was located. 

According to Barton, Rutledge had a Ripley County warrant for possession, delivery, or manufacturing of a controlled substance with a $20,000 cash only bond, while Lott had a wanted person warrant from Missouri Department of Correction, Probation, and Parole for possession of a controlled substance with no bond. 

Both were transported and booked into the Wayne County jail.

BOATING SAFETY COURSE SET FOR THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF 

The Missouri State Highway Patrol will be hosting a boating safety course this weekend in Poplar Bluff.  

The course has been scheduled for 9 am to 5 pm Saturday at the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop E Headquarters, on Highway 67 North.  

The course is free, but registration is required and the boater ID card costs $15. 

Missouri law requires everyone born after January 1st, 1984, who operates a vessel on Missouri lakes to possess a certified boating safety education card and photo ID. This includes personal watercraft operators. 

For more information, visit the Missouri State Highway Patrol website at mshp.dps.mo.gov.

ROAD RESURFACING PROJECT SET TO RESUME TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY 

Route Y in Stoddard and Scott Counties will be reduced with an 11 foot width restriction beginning today as contractor crews resurface the roadway.   

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway to be reduced is located from two and a half miles east of Route 25 to Route 61 in Sikeston.          

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm daily through Friday, April 12th.

HOME A TOTAL LOSS FOLLOWING FIRE IN KENNETT 

A Kennett area home is being considered a total loss following a fire yesterday.  

According to the Kennett Fire Department, the fire was located at a house on Blair Street at Seely Street early Wednesday morning.  

Officials say that nobody was home at the time of the fire; however a pet was not able to get out of the house and died due to smoke.  

No information was released about a possible cause for the fire.

AREA ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT 

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

The section of Route D to be closed is located between County Roads 556 and 560. 

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

SEMO SPORTSMAN’S BANQUET SCHEUDLED FOR THIS WEEKEND 

Preparations are underway for the annual SEMO Sportsman’s Banquet this weekend. 

The banquet will begin at 5 pm Saturday, March 23rd, at the American Legion on PP Highway in Poplar Bluff. 

Organizers say there will be a fried chicken dinner available for $7 a plate as well as entertainment and door prizes. Proceeds from the event will go to fund the Kid’s Fish and Fun Day.

Wednesday, March 20, 2019

CREWS EVACUATE AN ELDERLY FLOOD VICTIM IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Crews were involved in an evacuation yesterday in New Madrid County.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, a sheriff’s deputy and the New Madrid Assistant Fire Chief both helped evacuate an elderly flood victim.

Officials say that the evacuation took place on State Highway 80.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, a portion of Highway 80 east of Matthews has been closed since late February due to flooding.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL NAMED ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR

A Poplar Bluff school official has been named administrator of the year for the Southeast District of the Missouri Association of Student Councils.

Poplar Bluff High School Principal Mike Owen received the honor during the organization's 71st annual state convention that was held earlier this month.

To be nominated for the award, an administrator must work collaboratively with the Student Council to provide a positive impact on school culture.

Social studies teacher Mitch Davis noted in his submission that Owen not only supports Student Council, but actively participates in organizing events for the student-led organization.

AREA MAN ARRESTED ON METHAMPHETAMINE CHARGE

An area man was taken into custody last night on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 28 year old Raymand Brewer, of New Madrid was arrested shortly before 10:30 pm in New Madrid County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

Brewer is also facing charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while suspended.

PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN CARTER COUNTY

A public meeting has been scheduled for today in Carter County.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, a public meeting of Carter County Transportation Advisory Committee members and the general public will be held this morning.

The meeting is about transportation issues and priorities within the county and will begin at 10 am at the Carter County Courthouse in Van Buren.

For more information, contact Andrew Murphy at 573-785-6402.

TREE TRIMMING TO POSSIBLY CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON BUTLER COUNTY ROAD

Route 53 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can trim trees along the roadside.

According to officials the section of Route 53 to be reduced will be located from County Road 309 to County Road 605.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 9 am to 3 pm.

DRAINAGE REPAIRS SET TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route 25 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane for the rest of this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform drainage repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced will be located between County Roads 607 and 632.

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

Tuesday, March 19, 2019

EDDY JUSTICE ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR STATE SENATE

A Poplar Bluff area insurance agent and former Butler County Republican Chair has announced his candidacy for the Missouri State Senate.

Eddy Justice will be running for State Senate District 25, which is comprised of Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Stoddard, and Shannon Counties. Justice is seeking to replace current State Senator Doug Libla who cannot run for the seat again due to term limits.

Justice has been a State Farm Insurance Agent for over 20 years, and is also both a former President of the Lion’s Club and the former chair of the Butler County GOP Committee.

Justice tells KWOC News that among his legislative priorities, he is determined to protect small businesses and farms from government overreach and over regulation. He believes it is vital to improve the business environment to encourage more opportunity for people in Southeast Missouri.

He also sees smart investments in infrastructure and important tax reform as just a few ways to improve the economic environment.

LADY RAIDERS UNABLE TO PULL OFF UPSET OF JONES COUNTY IN NJCAA TOURNAMENT

Three Rivers College was eliminated in the first round of the NJCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament on Monday.

The 24th seed Lady Raiders upset bid of 9th seed Jones County Junior College fell short, with the Lady Raiders losing 88 to 84.

Three Rivers’ Hailee Erickson led both teams with 29 points.

EVENT TO BE HELD TONIGHT TO ALLOW VOTERS TO MEET CANDIDATES FOR THE TWIN RIVERS SCHOOL BOARD

An event will be held tonight to give voters in the Twin Rivers School District a chance to learn more about candidates for the school board.

The Twin Rivers Board of Education Meet the Candidates night has been scheduled for 6 pm on this evening at the Broseley Senior Community Center.

The event is being sponsored by the Twin Rivers Community Teachers Association.

PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY

A public meeting has been scheduled for today in Wayne County.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, Wayne County Transportation Advisory Committee members will be hosting the public meeting beginning at 10 am at the Wayne County Courthouse in Greenville.

Subjects to be discussed include transportation issues and priorities within the county.

For more information, contact Andrew Murphy at 573-785-6402.

SHOWCASE TO BE HELD THIS MORNING FOR A POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL

A showcase will be held this morning for a Poplar Bluff area school.

Lake Road Elementary will be hosting a Blue Ribbon Showcase from 9 to 10:30 am at the school on Highway AA.

The event is to celebrate Lake Road’s recent national designation as a top performing school.

FISK WOMAN FACING FELONY DRUG CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST IN BUTLER COUNTY

An area woman was taken into custody last night in Butler County on multiple felony drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Christa Hill, of Fisk, was arrested at around 10:45 pm on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine as well as acetominphen and codeine phosphate.

Hill is also facing a charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.