Monday, November 15, 2021

ONE DEAD, TWO INJURED, FOLLOWING COLLISION IN BLOOMFIELD

A crash Friday afternoon in Bloomfield has resulted in one death.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred at around 4:45 pm on Highway 25 at Griffin Road when a truck, driven by 36 year old Christopher Tormino, of Campbell, was crossing the road and was struck by a car.

A passenger in the car, identified as 44 year old Roy Bell, of Bloomfield, was transported to a Dexter hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The driver of the car, as well as a juvenile passenger were transported to regional hospitals.

No injuries were listed for the driver of the 1st vehicle. 

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI DRIVER DIES AFTER STRIKING STOPPED FREIGHTLINER

One person has died following a crash Friday evening near Kewanee.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 22 year old Richard Stinson, of Catron, was driving on Route W in New Madrid County when his vehicle struck a Freightliner that was stopped in the roadway.

Stinson was pronounced dead at the scene. 

The driver of the freightliner suffered minor injuries and was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital. 

POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY SET TO REOPEN TODAY

The main branch of the Poplar Bluff Public Library is set to reopen today.

Library officials had previously announced that the main library branch on North Main Street would be closed until today to protect the Library’s patrons and staff.

The Library’s official account posted on Facebook that some staff had been exposed to a COVID-19 positive individual and were following CDC guidelines. 

ONE IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO NORTHEAST ARKANSAS SHOOTING INVESTIGATION

An investigation is ongoing following a shooting in Northeast Arkansas.

According to authorities, a male subject was found on Friday afternoon in Walnut Ridge with multiple gunshot wounds.

The subject, whose name was not released, was flown to an area hospital for treatment. His current condition was not available.

One person has been taken into custody in connection to the investigation.

The identity of the suspect and any possible charges were not released. 

REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON US ROUTE 60 IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway to be affected is located from Route 51 to Route 25.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7:30 am to 2:30 pm daily, through Friday. 

CREWS TO BE CLOSING SOUTHEAST MISSOURI ROAD THIS WEEK

Route AB in New Madrid County will be closed for most of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

According to officials, the closure will be located from Route WW to County Road 405.

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

Friday, November 12, 2021

DEER SEASON BEGINS ON SATURDAY

Hunters from across Missouri will be heading to the woods this weekend for the beginning of deer season.

Officials with the Missouri Department of Conservation say that the November portion of the firearms deer season runs from November 13th through the 23rd and the opening weekend is the most popular two days for most deer hunters in Missouri.

The MDC says that this season’s harvest should be higher than average due to increasing deer numbers across most of the state coupled with increased firearms antlerless permit availability in a number of counties and an extension of the antlerless portion.

You can find more information about Deer season as well as regulations online at mdc.mo.gov. 

VEHICLE STRIKES HOUSE NEAR CENTERVILLE, ONE DEAD

One person has died after a vehicle struck a house Wednesday in Reynolds County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 83 year old William Buckner, of Ellington, was driving on Highway 21 when his vehicle ran off the right side of the road, struck a house, and then a tree.

Buckner was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported. 

NEELYVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT HOSTING VETERANS DAY EVENT THIS MORNING

The Neelyville R-IV School District will be holding its annual Veterans Day Program this morning.

The event will begin at 9 am in the Neelyville High School Gym.

All veterans and the public are invited to attend. 

Veterans are asked to arrive by 8:45.

PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD NEXT WEEK IN BUTLER COUNTY CONCERNING BLOCK GRANT SUBMISSION

A public hearing has been scheduled for next week in Butler County to discuss the application for a block grant.

The County will host the hearing at 9:30 am on Wednesday, November 17th at the Butler County Courthouse.

The county is proposing to repair the existing road bed, address settlement issues, overlay and pave all or sections of multiple streets in Harviell.

The county is proposing to apply for approximately $193,991 in CDBG Funding, with the total project estimated to cost just over $245,000.

For more information on the proposed project, contact Presiding Commissioner Vince Lampe at 573-686-8050. 

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL CHOSEN TO BE A PART OF READERS PROGRAM

A Poplar Bluff elementary school was one of two schools in the state chosen to be part of a program to promote reading.

Lake Road Elementary was chosen to be part of the United States of Readers program, a partnership between Scholastic Book Clubs and bestselling author James Patterson through which students receive 10 popular children’s books of their choosing throughout the academic year.

Officials say the program is designed to promote literacy among Title 1 schools across the country.

Lake Road students recently received the first round of free books for their home libraries as part of the program.

HAYTI FIRE DEPARTMENT RIB DINNER SCHEDULED FOR EARLY DECEMBER

 A Southeast Missouri Fire Department has announced the date for their annual rib dinner.

The 42nd annual Hayti Fire Department Rib Dinner will be from 5 to 7 pm on December 4th. Officials say that the event will be set up as a drive through line to not put anyone at risk.

Tickets are $40 for two plates. There will also be a cash giveaway and raffles for multiple items.

More information is available on the Hayti Fire Department Facebook page. 

Thursday, November 11, 2021

MAN SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO NEW MADRID SHOOTING DEATH

Authorities in New Madrid are searching for a man in connection to a shooting death.

According to New Madrid Chief of Police Joey Higgerson, at around 7 pm on November 9th, officers responded to the 100 block of St. Theresa Lane for a subject with a gunshot wound.

At the scene, officers found 18 year-old Patrick Johnson, of New Madrid, sitting in a vehicle with a gunshot wound to his hip. He was taken to a Sikeston hospital where he later died.

An investigation into the incident led to charges being filed against Terrance Bevly, of New Madrid, for involuntary manslaughter, armed criminal action, and receiving stolen property.

Anyone who has information on Bevly’s whereabouts is asked to contact the New Madrid Police Department at 573-748-5901.

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

VETERANS DAY PROGRAM TO BE HELD IN FRONT OF BLACK RIVER COLISEUM

Multiple speakers will be celebrating Veterans today outside of the Black River Coliseum in Poplar Bluff.

The Poplar Bluff Veterans’ Council will be hosting their 2021 Veterans Day Program at 11 am at the Veterans Wall in front of the Coliseum.

The Keynote speaker for the event will be Retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Robert Wake Senior of the Wake Foundation.

In the case of inclement weather, the program will be moved to the VA Post directly across the BRC parking lot, next to the Farmer’s Market. 

POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL VETERANS DAY PARADE TO BEGIN AT 9 AM

A parade has been scheduled for today in Poplar Bluff to honor area veterans.

According to school officials, the Poplar Bluff Middle School Veterans Day Parade will begin this morning at 9 am.

Officials say that while the parade will be for veterans only, anyone who wants to watch the parade can do so on the Poplar Bluff Middle School Facebook page. 

PEDESTRIAN INJURED IN WRECK NEAR MOREHOUSE

A pedestrian was injured in a wreck early Wednesday morning near Morehouse.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred when a truck struck a traffic barricade on westbound US Highway 60, which caused the barricade to be pushed into a pedestrian.

The pedestrian, 41 year old David Tropf, of Advance, suffered moderate injuries and was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital. No injuries were listed for the driver of the truck. 

DAY USE FEES SUSPENDED AT CERTAIN BOAT RAMPS ON WAPPAPELLO LAKE

Certain boat ramps at Wappapello Lake will not require day use fees through next Spring.

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake, day use fees will not be charged to use boat ramps at Chaonia Landing North and South, Rockwood Point, Redman Creek, Sundowner, and Peoples Creek through March 31st, 2022.

For more information, contact the Wappapello Lake Management Office at 573-222-8562.

MOTORISTS REMINDED TO WATCH FOR DEER

With this weekend marking the start of deer season, motorists are being asked to be extra careful on the roadways.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, there are a larger number of crashes in Missouri involving deer and other wildlife from mid-October through the end of November.

A report from State Farm Insurance ranks Missouri 15th in the country for potential deer collisions.

Drivers should never swerve to avoid animals in the road as it can cause loss of control of their vehicles, resulting in serious injury or death.

To avoid hitting a deer, always be cautious and keep your eyes scanning both sides of the roadway.

MAN SOUGHT IN CONNECTON TO NEW MADRID SHOOTING DEATH

Authorities in New Madrid are searching for a man in connection to a shooting death.

According to New Madrid Chief of Police Joey Higgerson, at around 7 pm on November 9th, officers responded to the 100 block of St. Theresa Lane for a subject with a gunshot wound.

At the scene, officers found 18 year-old Patrick Johnson, of New Madrid, sitting in a vehicle with a gunshot wound to his hip. He was taken to a Sikeston hospital where he later died.

An investigation into the incident led to charges being filed against Terrance Bevly, of New Madrid, for involuntary manslaughter, armed criminal action, and receiving stolen property.

Anyone who has information on Bevly’s whereabouts is asked to contact the New Madrid Police Department at 573-748-5901.

Wednesday, November 10, 2021

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SENTENCED ON ASSAULT AND FIREARM CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man is facing over three decades in prison following his conviction on assault and firearm charges.

Butler County Prosecuting Attorney Kacey Proctor tells KWOC News that Kayln Johnson was convicted by a Butler County jury in August on charges of assault in the first degree, armed criminal action, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

The charges stem from a shooting at a Poplar Bluff residence in January of 2020.

On Tuesday, Johnson was sentenced to 25 years on the assault charge, 10 years on the armed criminal action charge, and 10 years on the firearm charge, which is to be served concurrent to the two other sentences. Proctor says the overall sentence is for 35 years and Johnson must serve 85 percent of the sentence.

AREA MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED AFTER MOTORCYCLE STRIKES DEER

An area man was injured Tuesday evening after his motorcycle struck a deer.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at around 5:40 pm on Highway T, five miles south of Wappapello.

The driver of the motorcycle, 54 year old Charles Loflin, of Wappapello, was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital with serious injuries. 

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS ANNUAL COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING DINNER SCHEDULED FOR FRIDAY

Poplar Bluff Schools and Chartwells will be holding their annual Community Thanksgiving meal this week.

According to officials, the meal will be free for families from 6 to 8 pm on Friday.

The event will be held at the Poplar Bluff High School. 

HUNTERS REMINDED TO BE AWARE OF BAITING REGULATIONS

Deer season is rapidly approaching and the Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding hunters of baiting regulations.

According to the MDC, the use of bait, including grain or other feed placed or scattered to attract deer or turkey while hunting is illegal.

Officials say the regulations are in place to help limit the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease in deer and to ensure fair chase.

More information is available at mdc.mo.gov. 

POPLAR BLUFF PARKS AND RECREATION HOSTING TURKEY TROT

Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation has announced a fun walking event for this month.

The one mile Turkey Trot will be held at McLane Park beginning at 2 pm on November 20th. Officials say the Turkey Trot is a fun walk in the park with raffles, prizes, and food.

Anyone who registers by this Friday will receive a free T-shirt and there are no age requirements. To register, call 573-686-8645.

WATER MAIN BREAKS IN NEW MADRID COUNTY CITY

Residents of a Southeast Missouri city are being advised to boil their water.

According to city officials, the city of Gideon is under a precautionary boil water order due to a break of the city’s main water line.

The order is for the area from Madison Street and South Main Street to South Anderson Avenue and South Main Street. 

Tuesday, November 9, 2021

THREE POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS RANKED IN THE TOP 15 OF MISSOURI

Three schools in the Poplar Bluff School District have been ranked in the top 15 elementary schools in Missouri.

According to school officials, each of Poplar Bluff’s lower elementary buildings have been named ‘Best Elementary Schools’ according to the inaugural rankings of the U.S. News & World Report.

Eugene Field was listed at Number 8 in the state, followed by Oak Grove at 9 and Lake Road Elementary at 14. The rankings included over 1,000 schools statewide.

Superintendent Scott Dill says that the rankings speak volumes to the work that is being done throughout the district. 

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AUTO TOUR TO BEGIN ON NOVEMBER 26TH

We are just over two weeks away from the beginning of a holiday tradition in Southeast Missouri.

The 29th Annual Festival of Lights Auto Tour will be held in the Redman Creek Campground East from 5pm to 9pm on November 26th to December 26th.

For more information contact the Wappapello Lake Project Office by calling (573) 222-8562.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI FOOD BANK TO HOST MULTIPLE MOBILE FOOD PANTRIES THIS WEEK

The Southeast Missouri Food Bank will be hosting multiple mobile food pantries this week across the area.

Officials with the food bank say that people needing food assistance should visit a mobile food pantry in the community or county they live. Attendees are also asked to bring a photo ID and a piece of mail that establishes proof of residence, such as a utility bill.

The mobile food pantries will be held today in Wappapello and Sikeston, on Wednesday in Braggadocio, on Thursday in Campbell, on Friday in Van Buren and Kennett, and on Saturday in Poplar Bluff, Lesterville, and Bloomfield.

Distributions will be limited to one box per household.

For more information, including the times and locations of each of the mobile food pantries, visit semofoodbank.org or call 573-471-1818. 

DEER HUNTERS REMINDED OF MANDATORY CWD SAMPLING

With firearm deer season coming up, the Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding deer hunters that it will be holding mandatory chronic wasting disease sampling during the opening weekend.

Hunters who harvest deer in any counties in the CWD Management Zone on November 13th and 14th are required to take their harvested deer or the head on the day of harvest to one of MDC’s numerous CWD mandatory sampling stations located throughout the zone.

Hunters must present their deer to a CWD mandatory sampling station within the county of harvest, with a few exceptions. Sampling and test results are free.

You can find the sampling locations as well as all counties that are in the CWD Management Zone at mdc.mo.gov/cwd. 

US ROUTE 60 TO BE REDUCED IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane early this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route 51 to Route 25.

Work will take place from 7:30 am to 2:30 pm both today and tomorrow.

REPAIRS TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI ROAD

Route A in Pemiscot County will be closed this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

According to authorities, the work zone is located from Highway B to County Road 221.

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

Monday, November 8, 2021

DEXTER MAN FACING MURDER CHARGE AFTER ALLEGEDLY HITTING SOMEONE WITH HIS VEHICLE

A Dexter man is facing a murder charge following an incident on Friday.

According to Stoddard County Chief Deputy Sheriff Andy Holden, shortly before 5 pm on Friday, deputies were dispatched to a truck repair business near the intersection of US Highway 60 and County Road 517.

They found 32 year old Franklin J. Morris dead at the scene.

The Stoddard County Major Case Squad was activated and an investigation led to the arrest of 41 year old Boyd Lippoldt, of Dexter.

Lippoldt is alleged to have intentionally struck Morris with a vehicle and then moving the vehicle in an attempt to conceal evidence.

Lippoldt is facing charges of 1st degree murder, armed criminal action, possession of methamphetamine, and driving while intoxicated causing a death.

Holden says that the investigation into the incident is ongoing. 

MULTIPLE LOCAL OFFICIALS APPEAR ON 60 MINUTES

Multiple local officials appeared on last night’s episode of the CBS news program 60 Minutes.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley and Butler County Prosecuting Attorney Kacey Proctor both were interviewed for a segment on the Missouri Second Amendment Preservation Act, which was signed by Governor Mike Parson in June.

The act prohibits state and local cooperation with federal officials that attempt to enforce any laws, rules, orders, or actions that violate the Second Amendment rights of Missourians.

The interviews were a part of a story on conservative police and prosecutors in the state who were not in favor of the law.

POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY TO BE CLOSED FOR A WEEK

The Poplar Bluff Library has been temporarily closed.

According to a post on the library’s website, the main library branch on North Main Street will be closed until Monday, November 15th, unless otherwise announced.

All scheduled programming at the main branch has also been cancelled.

No reason was given for the closure other than to protect the Library’s patrons and staff.

The Ridgel Branch on Kanell Boulevard will remain open for their normal hours, from 1 to 6 pm, Tuesday through Saturday. 

POPLAR BLUFF BOYS SWIMMING TEAM QUALIFIES FOR STATE CHAMPIONSHIP MEET

The Poplar Bluff Mules boys swimming team is going to the state championship this week.

The team qualified for the MSHSAA State Swimming Championship in the 200 yard medley relay, the 200 yard freestyle relay, and the 400 yard freestyle relay.

Preliminaries for the state championship will be held Thursday in St. Peters, with the finals to follow on Friday. 

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE TO CAUSE DELAYS ON ROUTE 67 IN WAYNE COUNTY

Southbound U.S. Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction beginning this morning as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance. 

The bridge is located over Bennet Creek just south of County Road 216 near Lodi.

Work was scheduled to begin at 7 am this morning and will continue through at 4:30 pm tomorrow. Officials say the work zone will be set-up throughout the night.

INTERSTATE RAMPS TO BE CLOSED TODAY AT SIKESTON CLOVERLEAF

Contractor crews will be repairing the pavement at the Interstate 55/57 and U.S. Route 60 cloverleaf interchange in Sikeston today.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Ramp 1A from southbound I-57 to southbound I-55 will be closed from 7 am to 1 pm.

Officials say that Ramp 66B from northbound I-55 to westbound U.S. Route 60 will be closed from 1 pm to 6 pm.

A signed detour will be in place. 

Friday, November 5, 2021

 FOOTBALL DISTRICT PLAYOFFS TO CONTINUE TONIGHT

The Poplar Bluff Mules will continue their football district playoff campaign tonight.

The three seed Mules are going on the road to take on the two seed Seckman in the Class 5, District 1 Semifinals.

Should the Mules win, they will either host five seed Mehlville or travel to one seed Jackson for the District Final.

Live audio coverage of the game will be provided by our sister station Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM beginning at 6:20 pm with the kick off scheduled for 7 pm. Video coverage will be available for a fee at MSHSAA.tv.

AREA POLICE OFFICER FACING SEXUAL ABUSE CHARGE

A Southeast Missouri police officer is facing multiple charges.

65 year old Woodrow Massa, of Patterson, has been charged with felony sexual abuse in the first degree and harassment.

Massa, who is a Piedmont city police officer, is accused of inappropriately touching the victim as well as causing emotional distress.

An arraignment was held on Wednesday and Massa’s next court appearance has been scheduled for Monday, December 6th. 

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS THIS WEEKEND

The sun will begin rising an hour earlier on Sunday.

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

This is also a good time to check or change the batteries in your smoke detector.

Daylight Saving Time will start again on Sunday, March 13th, 2022.  

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN ARRESTED ON TRAFFICKING CHARGE

A Southeast Missouri man was taken into custody this week on a trafficking charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 25 year old Michael Amerson, of Steele, was arrested Wednesday afternoon on a felony charge of trafficking methamphetamine.

Amerson is also facing charges of driving while suspended, exceeding the posted speed limit, and following too closely.

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

AGREEMENT SIGNED BY TWO STATE AGENCIES TO PROVIDE GUIDANCE FOR EMERGENCY RESPONDERS

The Missouri Department of Transportation and the Missouri State Highway Patrol have signed the Missouri Open Roads Agreement, which officials are calling a first-of-its-kind document that provides guidance to emergency responders clearing incidents from Missouri highways.

In the agreement, the agencies adopted a goal to clear traffic incidents safely from the roadway in no more than 90 minutes from the arrival of the first responder.

MoDOT, the Highway Patrol and other emergency responders are calling on drivers to do their part by staying alert, slowing down and, when possible, moving over to give them room to work at crash scenes.

The agreement comes right before the beginning of Crash Responder Safety Week on November 8th.

ROAD CREWS TO CLOSE STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TODAY

Route MM in Stoddard County will be closed today as contractor crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of Route MM to be closed is located from Route U to County Road 684.

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

Thursday, November 4, 2021

RIBBON CUTTING HELD AT THE LOCATION OF EXPANDED TECHNOLOGY CENTER ON TRC CAMPUS

Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff is celebrating the expansion of the Crisp Technology Center.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Wednesday for the Harry L. Crisp Sr. Technology Center. Former Missouri Speaker of the House, Todd Richardson, spoke at the event as did multiple TRC representatives.

The Crisp Technology Center focuses on providing career education and workforce development courses that prepare students for careers in the region.

The education provided ranges from short term courses that last a few weeks to full two-year programs.

For more information, visit trcc.edu. 

MISSOURI CHILDREN BETWEEN 5 AND 11 YEARS OLD NOW ELIGIBLE FOR COVID-19 VACCINE

Children ages 5 to 11 now are eligible for COVID-19 vaccines in Missouri.

The Missouri state health department on Wednesday announced it's adopting the same recommendations for pediatric vaccination as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Federal health authorities gave the final go-ahead Tuesday for a vaccine made by Pfizer for younger children.

Missouri health department spokeswoman Lisa Cox says the state has 116,100 initial doses of the pediatric coronavirus vaccine. That’s enough for roughly 22% of the state’s more than 533,000 newly eligible children.

MAN FACING METH CHARGE OUT OF CARTER COUNTY

Authorities in Carter County have arrested a Missouri man on a meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Gregory Bennett, of Carl Junction, was arrested late Tuesday night on a felony charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Bennett is also facing charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and speeding.

Following the arrest, he was transported to the Carter County Jail. 

DATE APPROACHING FOR 11TH ANNUAL CASINO NIGHT AND MOUSE RACES

The date is approaching for the Poplar Bluff Rotary Club’s 11th Annual Casino Night and Mouse Races.

The event will be held from 6:30 to 10 pm on Saturday, November 6th at the Poplar Bluff Holiday Inn Ballroom.

Tickets are $25 per person or $40 per couple and more information is available on the Poplar Bluff Rotary Club’s Facebook page. 

MODOT ANNOUNCES PLANS TO IMPROVE STODDARD COUNTY BRIDGE

A Stoddard County road will be closed for part of next year due to bridge improvements.

The Missouri Department of Transportation has announced plans to replace the deck of the Route WW bridge over Drainage Ditch #26, north of Dudley.

Officials say that construction could begin as early as next spring, with completion anticipated by fall 2022.

As work is underway, the roadway will be closed in the vicinity of the bridge for approximately three months.

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY

Route MM in Dunklin County will be closed today as contractor crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the work zone will be located from County Road 114 to County Road 110.

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

Wednesday, November 3, 2021

BUTLER COUNTY USE TAX MEASURE FAILS

Voters in Butler County have rejected a use tax measure.

The measure, which would have added a local use tax that would be the same rate as the total local sales tax rate failed Tuesday with over 71 percent of voters voting against it.

According to officials, turnout was only at 11.45 percent in Butler County. 

In Wayne County, voters approved a one-quarter of one percent countywide sales tax. The measure passed with 67% of voters approving. 

YOUTH HUNTERS HARVEST OVER 15,000 DEER IN MISSOURI

Youth hunters in Missouri took over 15,000 deer during the early youth portion of the 2021 deer hunting season.

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation shows that young hunters ages 6 through 15 harvested 15,608 deer during the hunting season which ran from October 30th through the 31st.

Four southeast Missouri counties came in the top 20 of the state, with Howell County placing 3rd with 316 deer checked, followed by Bollinger County at 6th, Oregon County at 10th, and Ripley County at 20th.  

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN DIES FROM INJURIES RECEIVED IN CRASH 

A Northeast Arkansas man has died from injuries he received in a wreck last week.

The Arkansas State Police tells KWOC News that 76 year old Mark Forrest, of Piggott, was driving on US Highway 64 when an oncoming vehicle ran a red light and struck Forrest’s vehicle in the side.

Forrest was later pronounced dead.

Officials say that the crash occurred on October 26th in rural Faulkner County.

No information was released on if there were other injuries or fatalities in connection to the wreck. 

TWO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTY VACANCIES FILLED BY GOVERNOR PARSON

Two county seat vacancies in Southeast Missouri have been filled by Missouri Governor Mike Parson.

According to the Governor’s Office, Shannon Landers, of Sikeston, has been appointed as the New Madrid County Circuit Clerk.

Landers has served as Chief Deputy Clerk and Principal Court Clerk for New Madrid County since 2012. Prior to her promotion as Chief Deputy Clerk, she served as a deputy clerk for the Office for more than 25 years.

Governor Parson also appointed Denise Smith, of Ellington, as the Reynolds County Collector. Smith has served as Deputy Clerk in the Reynolds County Clerk's Office since 2013. 

STODDARD COUNTY MAN ARRESTED ON NUMEROUS BURGLARY CHARGES

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested an area man on numerous burglary charges.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 50 year old Shawn Yount, of Advance, was recently booked on three counts of burglary-1st degree, 10 counts of burglary-2nd degree, seven counts of stealing, three counts of stealing-$750 or more, three counts of property damage-1st degree, and four counts of property damage-2nd degree.

Additional information regarding the incidents that led to the arrest were not released.

Yount is being held on no bond. 

ROAD CREWS TO CLOSE A NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TODAY

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

The section of roadway to be closed is located between County Roads 246 and 248.

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

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

VOTERS IN BUTLER AND WAYNE COUNTIES TO HEAD TO THE POLLS TODAY

It is Election Day in Missouri and there are ballot issues being voted on in multiple Southeast Missouri counties.

In Butler County, voters are being asked to weigh in on a local use tax that would be the same rate as the total local sales tax rate.

In Wayne County, voters will be deciding on a one-quarter of one percent countywide sales tax. Money from the sales tax will be divided equally for the funding of the Prosecuting Attorney’s office and additional funding for law enforcement and public safety.

You can find your polling location online at GoVoteMissouri.com. 

TWO PLANES LAND ON US HIGHWAY 60 IN CARTER COUNTY

Two planes landed on a Southeast Missouri roadway on Monday.

According to the Carter County Emergency Management Agency, at around 2:50 pm, a small plane lost engine power and landed on US Highway 60, just west of Ellsinore. Shortly after, a second plane, who was flying with the disabled plane, also landed on US Highway 60.

Both pilots were from Arkansas and were flying from Poplar Bluff to West Plains. There were no injuries reported.

WANTED MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING INVESTIGATION

A wanted man has been arrested on an assault charge.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, 55 year old Arnold Felton was wanted on an assault charge in connection to a shooting investigation.

Before being apprehended, officials say that Felton was being considered armed and dangerous. 

TOTAL OF 12 BLACK BEARS TAKEN DURING MISSOURI’S FIRST BEAR SEASON

Missouri’s inaugural bear hunting season came to an end last week and state officials say that over 10 bears were taken.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri hunters harvested 12 black bears during the season, which ran between October 18th and 27th. More than 6,330 hunters applied for 400 permits for the season with the maximum total harvest for the season being 40 bears.

Bear hunting in Missouri is limited to Missouri residents and restricted to three designated areas of southern Missouri called Bear Management Zones.

Three of the bears were harvested in BMZ 2, which encompasses all of Southeast Missouri. 

POPLAR BLUFF ROAD TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK

U.S. Business 67 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

According to MoDOT officials, the section of Business 67 to be reduced is located from 11th Street to Route 53 in Poplar Bluff.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 am to 5 pm daily through Friday.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TODAY

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

The section of roadway to be closed is located from Highway J to Central Avenue.

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

Monday, November 1, 2021

POPLAR BLUFF’S FIRST FEMALE MAYOR PASSES AWAY

Poplar Bluff’s first female mayor has died. 

KWOC News has learned that Betty Absheer passed away Saturday evening at the age of 85.  

Absheer was appointed as the Poplar Bluff Ward 3 council member in September 1989 and elected to the remaining two years of that term in April 1990. She would go on to win a total of nine terms in the Poplar Bluff City Council. 

Council members elected Absheer to one-year terms as mayor five times from 1993 to 2015.

Absheer was born on October 19, 1936, in Old Greenville. In addition to serving as a council member and mayor, she also worked three years in the office at Anderson Furniture, 13 years at Metropolitan Insurance, and 28 years in the Poplar Bluff Housing Authority Office. 

We have more information on the life of Poplar Bluff’s first female mayor, Betty Absheer, at KWOC.com. 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

A southeast Missouri man has died from injuries he received in a wreck on Friday. 

According to the Arkansas State Police, 44 year old Eric Abernathy, of Poplar Bluff, failed to stop at a stop sign on Highway 358 in Northeast Arkansas and drove into the path of a truck. 

Officials say that Abernathy was killed in the wreck. No injuries were listed for the driver of the truck. 

The wreck occurred shortly before 9 pm Friday night in Greene County. 

ONE CHARGED WITH MURDER IN CONNECTION TO MISSING DUNKLIN COUNTY MAN

Two men have been charged in connection with a report of a missing man in Dunklin county. 

According to Dunklin County Sheriff Bob Holder, an investigation is ongoing into the death of Jerry Ott. Ott was reported missing last Monday and found dead later in the week. 

Holder says that two men from Campbell have been arrested in connection to the investigation. 

61 year old Philip Cooper is facing charges of murder in the first degree, armed criminal action, tampering with physical evidence in felony prosecution, abandonment of a corpse, and stealing. 

38 year old Jonathan Cooper has been charged with tampering with physical evidence, abandonment of a corpse, and stealing. 

Both men have been incarcerated in the Dunklin County Justice Center pending their court appearance.

MULES FOOTBALL ADVANCES TO DISTRICT SEMIFINALS

The Poplar Bluff Mules have returned to the District semifinals. 

The Mules defeated Oakville 42-7 Friday night in the Class 5, District 1 quarterfinals.

Poplar Bluff will travel to Imperial this Friday for their semifinal matchup with Seckman. The game will be broadcast live on Today’s Talk 93.3 FM and 930 AM KWOC as well as at KWOC.com. 

The East Carter County Lady Redbirds Softball team finished in fourth place at the Class 1 state Tournament over the weekend. 

SEARCH UNDERWAY FOR MAN WHO ESCAPED CUSTODY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Authorities in New Madrid County are searching for a man who reportedly escaped from custody last week. 

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department George Jones escaped from the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department shortly before 5 pm on Friday.

Jones had been charged with possession of a controlled substance, burglary, property damage, stealing, and stealing a motor vehicle. 

While turning himself in at the office, Jones fled from deputies. 

He was last seen wearing a green jacket, black sweatpants, and white tennis shoes with handcuffs and a leather belt restraint still on. Jones was last seen in the area of the New Madrid County Sheriff’s department going towards Main Street. 

A picture of Jones is available on the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page. 

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call 573-748-2516.

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT

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

The section of roadway to be closed is located between Central Avenue and Jefferson Street in Glennonville.

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

Poplar Bluff's First Female Mayor has Passed Away

KWOC News has learned that Betty Absheer, Poplar Bluff’s first female mayor passed away Saturday evening. She was 85.  

She began her political career in Poplar Bluff and was appointed as the Ward 3 council member in September 1989 and elected to the remaining two years of that term in April 1990. This term was the first of nine successful elections. Most elections, she was unopposed or won easily. Her closest win was by only 23 votes when then teacher Mark Ellis ran against her in 2007. 

Absheer at the time was working in the Poplar Bluff Housing Authority Office when Councilman Danny Whiteley, now the current Police Chief, called her in 1989 and informed her there was going to be a vacancy in Ward 3 due to another councilman accepting another position. After taking a couple of hours to decide, she obtained approval from her boss and encouragement from her family and friends before submitting her application letter.  

Her reason for becoming a council member and persevering for so many years sets an example for everyone. 

Council members elected Absheer her to one-year terms as mayor in April of 1993, 1996, 2000, 2006 and 2015. She attended her first council meeting in a building at the northwest corner of Broadway and Cedar Streets. Jim Moss was the city manager when Absheer became a councilwoman. She also has served under four other city managers Tom Lawson, Doug Bagby, Heath Kaplan and Mark Massingham.

As mayor, Absheer participating in many events for children, youth and adults. She has presented numerous proclamations to people who have been honored by the city. 

Absheer was born on October 19, 1936, in Old Greenville. Her given name was Mary Elizabeth, but she always been Betty. She was five when her family moved to the East Side of Poplar Bluff in January 1942. Her early education was at the J. Minnie Smith Grade School two blocks from her home, She graduated from Poplar Bluff Junior High and Poplar Bluff High School when both buildings were in Downtown. She worked three years in the office at Anderson Furniture on Fifth Street, 13 years at Metropolitan Insurance at Ninth and Vine streets and 28 years in the Poplar Bluff Housing Authority Office.

Friday, October 29, 2021

FOOTBALL DISTRICT PLAYOFFS TO BEGIN TODAY

The Poplar Bluff Mules will begin their football district playoff campaign tonight.

The Mules earned a three seed in the Class 5, District 1 playoffs and will take on the six seed Oakville Tigers in a Quarterfinal matchup at 7 pm.

Should the Mules win, they will either host seven seed Cape Central or travel to two seed Seckman for the District Semifinal.

Live audio coverage of the game will be provided by Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM.

The East Carter Lady Redbirds softball team will be playing this morning in the Class 1 State Softball Semi-final. The Lady Redbirds will take on the Maysville Lady Wolverines with first pitch scheduled for 11 am. 

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WRECK NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

Two people were injured Wednesday night in a wreck near Poplar Bluff.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 39 year old Richard Robertson, of Broseley, was driving a car on Highway AA at approximately 9:30 pm, when his vehicle travelled off the side of the roadway and overturned.

Robertson, as well as passenger 25 year old Justin Shepherd, of Poplar Bluff, suffered serious injuries in the wreck and were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

According to an arrest report from the Highway Patrol, Robertson is facing a felony charge of driving while intoxicated. 

MISSING DUNKLIN COUNTY MAN FOUND DEAD

Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, two people have been taken into custody in connection to the investigation of a missing person in Dunklin County.

61 year old Jerry Ott has been found dead according to authorities.

Ott was reported missing by authorities on Wednesday and had last been seen on October 25th.

The names of the two people in custody and the cause of death were not released. 

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FROM THE POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT

Halloween is coming up this weekend and Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley has some tips to help keep your children safe while trick or treating. 

Chief Whiteley says parents should establish a route for children, making sure they stay within familiar areas and surroundings. An adult should accompany young children. Parents should also remind kids not to enter strangers' homes or cars, and to avoid homes without an outside light on.

Be sure to tell your children to not eat treats until they get home and remember to inspect all treats before allowing your kids to eat them.

 POLICE IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CITY TO STEP UP ENFORCEMENT IN SCHOOL ZONES

A southeast Missouri Police Department has seen a number of complaints recently about motorists speeding in school zones and they are taking steps to put a stop to it.

Kennett Chief of Police Kenny Wilson says that his officers will be taking a zero-tolerance approach while enforcing traffic laws in the school zones.

Wilson says that their number one priority will be the safety of students and the parents who are dropping kids off and picking kids up at their schools.

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THIS WEEKEND

Route A in Dunklin County will be closed beginning this weekend as contractor crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

According to officials, the section of roadway to be closed is located from County Road 510 to County Road 531.

Weather permitting, work will begin Saturday at 7 am, with the road re-opening on Monday, November 8th at 4 p.m.

Thursday, October 28, 2021

SEARCH UNDERWAY FOR MISSING MAN IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Multiple area authorities have been searching for a missing man in Dunklin County.

Dunklin County Sheriff Bob Holder tells KWOC News that 61 year old Jerry Ott was last seen on October 25th possibly driving a camouflage older Yamaha four wheeler into the wooded area near County Roads 110 and 111.

A search of the wooded area was conducted by members of the Dunklin County Sheriff’s Office, the Missouri Highway Patrol, and the Malden, Campbell, and Holcomb Fire Departments.

Ott is described as a white male, 5 feet 6 inches tall, with grey hair and blue eyes.

Anyone who has information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Dunklin County Sheriff’s Office at 573-888-2409.

STATE OF EMERGENCY ISSUED BY MADISON COUNTY OFFICIALS

A state of emergency has been declared in a southeast Missouri county.

Madison County officials issued the order Wednesday, three days after an EF3 tornado touched down in the Fredericktown area.

The tornado damaged multiple homes as well as destroyed two warehouses at Black River Electric Co-op.

A preliminary survey reported that the tornado had wind speeds reaching approximately 150 miles per hour. 

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF POPLAR BLUFF TO ANNOUNCE BIG NEWS TODAY

An area youth organization has been promoting a big announcement for today.

The Boys and Girls Club of Poplar Bluff will be making the announcement this morning at 11:30 am at the Poplar Bluff Middle School parking lot.

CEO Chris Rushin tells KWOC News that “This is a big announcement for our incredible Club that encompasses the hard work and dedication of our Board of Directors, our professional staff and our kids.”

The Boys and Girls Club of Poplar Bluff serves over 500 kids a day in nine different locations. 

STEM KITS DONATED TO POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL

An area school has some new tools to help students learn STEM skills.

According to Poplar Bluff School Officials, Three Rivers College’s Educational Talent Search program has donated a stockpile of gently used STEM kits to the Poplar Bluff Middle School for its hands-on elective.

According to ETS Director Brandi Brooks, the kits were left-over from the end of the program’s five-year grant cycle, during which ETS officials applied for additional funds to start a STEM club to help keep Junior High students engaged, and used the products for weekly Zoom sessions through the pandemic.

TEMPORARY BENEFIT INCREASE ANNOUNCED FOR MISSOURI WIC PARTICIPANTS

Missourians who are participating in the WIC program will be getting some extra benefits for the holidays.

Missouri WIC is temporarily increasing the Cash Value Benefit for Fruit and Vegetable Purchases during November and December to $24 per month for children, $43 per month for pregnant and postpartum participants and $47 per month for breastfeeding participants.

Officials say the Standard CVB values range from $9 to 11.

Eligible participants need to contact their local WIC agency to schedule an appointment to load the additional funds on their eWIC card before November 1st to avoid any delays.

For more information about the WIC program, visit wic.mo.gov. 

OVER TWO WEEK LONG REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY IN CARTER COUNTY

Route 60 in Carter County will be reduced to one lane for two weeks as crews perform pavement repairs.

According to Missouri Department of Transportation officials, the work zone is located from Route M to Route C.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 am to 4:30 pm daily through Thursday, November 11th.

Wednesday, October 27, 2021

MULES FOOTBALL DISTRICT PLAYOFFS TO BEGIN THIS FRIDAY

The Poplar Bluff Mules will begin their football district playoff campaign this Friday night.

The Mules earned a three seed in the Class 5, District 1 playoffs and will take on the six seed Oakville Tigers in a Quarterfinal matchup Friday night at 7 pm.

Should the Mules win, they will either host seven seed Cape Central or travel to two seed Seckman for the District Semifinal.

Live audio coverage of the game will be provided by Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM. A video stream will be available to purchase for $10 at mshsaa.tv. 

AREA SCHOOL TO BE OUT FOR THE REST OF THIS WEEK DUE TO STORM DAMAGE

Storm damage has caused one area school to cancel classes for the rest of this week.

According to the Zalma R-5 school district, workers have completed most of the storm cleanup and are working to temporarily secure the gymnasium until repairs and renovations from the weekend storms can be completed.

Superintendent Gerard Vandeven said in a Facebook Post that they do not anticipate power being restored to the elementary before the end of the week so they will be cancelling classes for the remainder of this week.

A revised school calendar will be posted next week once final decisions are made on make-up days.

After also missing the last two days because of storm damage, the Fredericktown R-1 School District has announced that they will be in session today. 

POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL TO HOST VETERANS DAY PARADE

Area veterans are being invited to take part in a Veterans Day Parade in Poplar Bluff.

The Poplar Bluff Middle School will be holding the parade, for veterans only, starting at 9 am on Thursday, November 11th.

Veterans who would like to drive in the parade are asked to call 573-785-5566 and ask to speak with a counselor.

School officials say that guests can watch the parade on the Poplar Bluff Middle School Facebook page. 

TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES IN STODDARD COUNTY 

Two Indianapolis residents were taken into custody this week in southeast Missouri on drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the arrests both occurred shortly before 10:30 pm Monday night in Stoddard County.

29 year old Mack Proctor was taken into custody on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – ecstasy, unlawful use of a weapon, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Authorities also arrested 30 year old Robert Reed on charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

EARTHQUAKE RATTLES MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

Multiple residents reported feeling an earthquake Tuesday in the Missouri bootheel.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.8 earthquake was recorded almost five miles northeast of Steele at around 10:30 am Tuesday morning.

Officials say the quake had a depth of over four miles. 

ROAD CLOSURE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

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

The section of Route Z to be closed is located between County Road 564 and U.S. Highway 60.

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

Tuesday, October 26, 2021

PRELIMINARY SURVEY INDICATES EF3 TORNADO STRUCK FREDERICKTOWN AREA SUNDAY NIGHT 

Survey crews are assessing the damage from Sunday night’s severe weather in Southeast Missouri.

According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, a preliminary damage survey indicated that an EF3 Tornado struck the Fredericktown area.

The Red Cross was in Fredericktown on Monday to get shelters set up for anyone who needed them.

The Fredericktown R-1 School District cancelled classes on Monday and for today due to the damage and community wide power outages. 

RIVER RADIO LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE SET FOR DECEMBER 3RD

Parade lights will be shining bright in Downtown Poplar Bluff this December for the 2021 River Radio Lighted Christmas Parade.

Entries are now being accepted for the parade, which is scheduled for 6:30 pm on Friday, December 3rd. Entry forms are available on our Facebook page and website. The deadline for entries is November 29th.

The parade route this year will run from Highway 142 at McDonalds through downtown Poplar Bluff before looping back and ending at the Black River Coliseum.

Trophies will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places. For more information, call 785-0881.

ZALMA SCHOOL DISTRICT TO MISS CLASSES TODAY DUE TO STORM DAMAGE

Storm damage from this past weekend will cause at least one area school to be out for today.

According to the Zalma R-5 school district, the Sunday night storms caused considerable damage to the school’s gymnasium and knocked down power lines around the campus.

Classes at Zalma were cancelled for both yesterday and today.

Superintendent Gerard Vandeven says that they hope to be back in school by Wednesday, however they cannot make that decision until they assess all of the damage around the buildings.

The Zalma Fire Department and other community responders were at the school yesterday removing debris from school grounds and loose metal roofing that posed a danger of blowing off.

The National Weather Service in Paducah says that an EF1 Tornado that travelled from five miles north of Shook, in Wayne County, to one mile northeast of Glennon, in Bollinger County, caused the damage. 

ARKANSAS MAN DIES FROM INJURIES HE RECEIVED IN A WEEKEND WRECK

An Arkansas man has died from injuries he received in a wreck over the weekend.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 59 year old Brett Gibson of Beech Grove, was driving on a Greene County road Saturday evening when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and struck several fence posts and an embankment.

After hitting the embankment, the vehicle flipped end over end before coming to a rest over 50 feet away from the roadway.

ASP officials announced Monday that Gibson had died from the crash. 

BRAZILIAN MUSIC TO FILL TINNIN FINE ARTS CENTER TONIGHT

Concert goers can experience the sounds of Brazil tonight at Three Rivers College.

TRC and the Patrons of the Arts are presenting the Brazilian All Stars at 7 pm tonight at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

The concert will feature a super group of some of the most renowned Brazilian musicians performing a sample of Brazil’s most famous songs.

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased online at trcc.edu/tinnin. Any remaining tickets can also be purchased at the door before the show. 

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TODAY

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

The section of Route JJ to be closed is located between Route J and County Road 103.

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

Monday, October 25, 2021

MULTIPLE REPORTS OF STORM DAMAGE IN NORTHERN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Strong storms crossed Southeast Missouri late Sunday night resulting in multiple damage reports in the northern section of the region.

According to storm reports from the National Weather Service, at least five homes were destroyed between Farmington and Fredericktown.

A twitter video also showed a camper destroyed on a Fredericktown area road.

We will keep following this story and bring you any updated storm reports as they come in.  

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SOFTBALL TEAM REACHES STATE FINAL FOUR

A Southeast Missouri Softball team will be playing in the state Final Four this week.

The East Carter Lady Redbirds have advanced to the Class 1 state Semi-final following their 6-3 victory over Leeton on Saturday in Centerview.

The Lady Redbirds will now rest up before heading to Springfield to take on the Maysville Lady Wolverines. First pitch is scheduled for 11 am this Friday.

BUTLER COUNTY FAIR SET FOR THIS WEEK

The Butler County Fair returns this week.

According to organizers, the fair is officially scheduled for October 27th through the 30th.

Events will include Barrel Racing on Thursday, the Rodeo on Friday, along with the parade and demolition derby on Saturday.

A full schedule of events is available at BCFair.org.  

POPLAR BLUFF TEACHER MAKES SHORTLIST FOR OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR PROGRAM

A local middle school teacher was chosen for the shortlist in the second annual McDonald’s Outstanding Educator Program.

According to the Poplar Bluff School District, 4th grade math teacher Aleanna Moore was reportedly one of nine regional honorees, which also included a single grand prize winner.

There were a total of 724 nominations for the program.

At the end of the month, Moore will receive a $100 Visa gift card, which she said she plans to use toward classroom headphone sets along with a ‘best teacher ever’ coffee mug.

Moore has served at the Poplar Bluff Middle School for the past five years. Before that she was employed at Oak Grove and Lake Road Elementary Schools. 

WAPPAPELLO MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY CHARGES IN BUTLER COUNTY 

Authorities in Butler County have arrested an area man on multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 52 year old Donald Norman, of Wappapello, was taken into custody Sunday morning on felony charges of receiving stolen property and driving while revoked.

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

ROADSIDE WORK TO CAUSE DELAYS THIS WEEK IN GREENVILLE

Business 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform roadside work. 

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route E to Walnut Street in Greenville.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday, from 8 am to 4 pm each day.

Friday, October 22, 2021

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS PROJECTED TO HAVE HIGHER THAN NORMAL TEMPERATURES THIS WINTER

We could be looking at a warmer than normal winter according to the latest projections.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s winter outlook was released yesterday and shows that Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas are favored to have above normal temperatures from December through February.

We could also be looking at a higher chance of above normal amounts of precipitation for this winter.

The full projections for the entire country are available at Climate.gov/WinterOutlook2021. 

SENTENCING SET FOR DECEMBER FOR TENNESSEE MAN IN CONNECTION TO FATAL CRASH

A Tennessee man is facing sentencing in December after his conviction on two charges relating to the deaths of a Missouri family during a drunk driving incident.

Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney Nicholas Jain tells KWOC News, that 59 year old Benny Johnson, of Milan, Tennessee was convicted by a Stoddard County Jury on Wednesday for three charges of driving while intoxicated causing a death and two charges of leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident.

The charges stem from the deaths of 32 year old Tiffini Santana and two children from Butler, Missouri, who were killed in July of 2017 when Johnson struck them with his truck.

Laboratory analysis revealed Johnson’s blood alcohol content to be in excess of the legal limit hours after the crash.

Jain says that the jury returned a sentencing recommendation of 10 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections on each of the three DWIs and 4 years each on the two charges of leaving the scene of an accident, as well as a fine, which is the maximum possible sentence under the law.

A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for December 1st. 

TIP LEADS TO DRUG ARREST IN STODDARD COUNTY

A Bloomfield man was held in the Stoddard County Jail this week after he was found in possession of multiple drugs.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office, on Tuesday, deputies received information that David Barfield, of Bloomfield, was selling methamphetamine from his residence.

Deputies made contact with Barfield and found him to be in possession of approximately six grams of methamphetamine, 16 grams of marijuana, smoking devices, scales, and a revolver.

Barfield was arrested on charges including delivery of a controlled substance and unlawful use of a weapon.

He was housed in the Stoddard County Jail on a $25,000 cash only bond. 

ZALMA FIRE DEPARTMENT TO HOST SPAGHETTI DINNER FUNDRAISER THIS WEEKEND

The Zalma Volunteer Fire Department will be hosting a fundraising dinner this weekend.

A spaghetti dinner has been scheduled for 3 to 7 pm on Saturday at the Zalma School Cafeteria. All plates will include noodles, meat sauce, garlic bread, a side salad, dessert, and a beverage.

All proceeds from the event will go to the Zalma Volunteer Fire Department. 

TODAY IS BUCKLE UP, PHONE DOWN DAY IN MISSOURI

Missourians are being encouraged to drive safely today for Buckle Up, Phone Down day.

Governor Mike Parson has proclaimed October 22nd as Buckle Up, Phone Down Day in Missouri in an effort to encourage Missourians to take two simple actions to save lives on the state’s highways – fasten their seat belts and put their phones down while driving.

Missouri’s 2021 Seat Belt Usage Survey showed 88 percent of vehicle occupants use a seat belt, matching the highest rate the state has ever recorded.

But the unbuckled 12 percent make up a majority of the state’s roadway fatalities, which spiked in 2020 despite a decrease in traffic volume. More than two-thirds of the drivers and passengers killed in traffic crashes last year were not wearing a seat belt.

Thursday, October 21, 2021

POPLAR BLUFF TO PLAY TODAY FOR SPOT IN STATE SOFTBALL SEMIFINAL

The Poplar Bluff Lady Mules Softball team is preparing for a chance to play in the state semifinal.

The Lady Mules will be hosting Parkway South in the Class 5 State Quarter-Final today at 4:30 pm. It is the Lady Mules first quarterfinals appearance since 1993 when they finished 4th in the state.  

Poplar Bluff Athletics Director Kent Keith says that anyone wishing to attend must purchase a ticket online at mshsaa.org.

93.3 FM and 930 AM KWOC will be bringing you audio coverage of the game live, starting with the pre-game at 4 pm. A video stream will also be purchasable at mshsaa.tv for $10. 

TWO BEARS HARVESTED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AS A PART OF MISSOURI BLACK BEAR SEASON

Seven bears have been harvested in Missouri as a part of the state’s first black bear hunting season.

The season began on October 18th and will run through the 27th. The hunters approved for the season were drawn earlier this year from a random drawing of applicants.

According to officials, two of the bears were killed in Southeast Missouri, while the other five were in Southwest Missouri.

The MDC proposed a limited and highly regulated black-bear hunting season following several years of public comment, including informational open houses in 2019 and a public-input process in the spring and fall of 2020.

STATEWIDE WINTER WEATHER DRILL TO BE HELD TODAY

Don’t be surprised if you see an increased amount of MoDOT vehicles on the roads today.

To help get prepared for the upcoming winter weather season, the Missouri Department of Transportation will be holding its annual winter operations drill throughout today.

During the drill, motorists may notice an increased number of MoDOT vehicles on state routes. In rural areas, crews will deploy after 8 am. In urban areas, the drill will not begin until after 9 am. The exercise should be completed by 3 pm.

MoDOT employees will react to a simulated forecast of significant snow for the entire state. The department’s emergency operations centers will activate and maintenance employees will be deployed to their trucks. Emergency communications systems will also be tested.

GREAT CENTRAL U.S. SHAKEOUT SCHEDULED FOR THIS MORNING

Millions of people all across the central United States will be participating in the Great Central U.S. Shakeout Earthquake Drill this morning.

The drill is scheduled for 10:21 a.m. and officials say the goal is to get everyone prepared for a possible major earthquake.

You can visit www.earthquakecountry.org/sevensteps for tips on how to prepare, protect, and recover in case of an earthquake. 

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN SENTENCED ON FIREARM CHARGE

A Southeast Missouri man will be spending multiple years in prison after pleading guilty to a firearm charge.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 30 year old Dwayne Harris, of Sikeston, has pled guilty to a charge of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, in November of 2020, officers with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety executed a search warrant at Harris’s residence and located a fully loaded Smith and Wesson semiautomatic pistol, as well as an additional firearm magazine, and a quantity of marijuana.

Harris has a prior felony conviction for unlawful use of a weapon and is prohibited from possessing firearms.

He was sentenced Wednesday to five years in federal prison.

FEED AND SEED EVENT SET FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

New Day Ministry in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a feed and seed event today. 

The event is from 3 to 5 pm and is first come, first serve, with packs limited to one per household.

New Day Ministry is located at 703 Franklin Street in Poplar Bluff.

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