Friday, May 6, 2022

NEW SUPERINTENDENT SELECTED FOR SIKESTON SCHOOL DISTRICT

A new superintendent has been chosen for the Sikeston R-6 school district.

School Board President Chad Bles announced Thursday that Shannon Holifield has been unanimously selected to serve as the next superintendent.

Holifield has 29 years of education experience including as a classroom teacher, coach, and principal. For the last 7 years she has served as an assistant superintendent at Sikeston.

Holifield is filling the position currently held by Dr. Tony Robinson, who announced last month that he was resigning effective June 30th. 

AREA WOMAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOR KIDNAPPING IN TEXAS

A woman wanted for kidnapping out of Missouri has been arrested in Texas.

According to the Amarillo Police Department, 26 year old Kayla Heins, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested on Wednesday.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that Heins has an outstanding warrant out of Butler County for parental kidnapping after she left the state with her children in March. Dobbs says that the Missouri Children’s Division had been attempting to remove the kids from Heins custody.

The Amarillo Police Department reports that the children were found safe and returned to their guardians.

Sheriff Dobbs added that Heins will be extradited back to Missouri.  

BUTLER COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT SECOND ANNUAL COMMUNITY OUTREACH DAY TO START THIS MORNING

The Butler County Health Department will be providing multiple resources to the public today during the Second Annual Community Outreach Day.

Free Narcan will be available at the event, as will school 8th and 12th grade vaccinations, prevention services, and WIC information.

There will also be packaged food provided by the SEMO Food Bank available to all who attend.

The Second Annual Community Outreach Day will be held from 9 am to noon at the Butler County Health Department in Poplar Bluff. 

ACCELERATED ACADEMY TO BE OFFERED FOR NEW HIGHWAY PATROL RECRUIT CLASS

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is stepping up its efforts in bringing in new recruits.

According to the MSHP Superintendent, Colonel Eric Olesn, the patrol will be offering another 15-week accelerated academy to law enforcement professionals interested in becoming a trooper.

To be eligible, candidates must possess an active Missouri Class A POST license in good standing and have served a minimum of three consecutive years as a full-time Missouri POST-commissioned police officer, military police officer, or out-of-state police officer in a traffic, patrol, or investigations capacity.

All candidates must successfully complete the selection process for troopers to enter the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy.

The 116th Recruit Class will report to the Patrol's Law Enforcement Academy on January 3rd, 2023. The deadline to apply is July 10th. Interested persons can learn more about the Missouri State Highway Patrol Accelerated Academy by contacting a Patrol recruiter at 1-800-796-7000. 

ANIMAL WELFARE ALLIANCE SECOND CHANCE BENEFIT SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY

Multiple events have been scheduled for the Animal Welfare Alliance’s second chance benefit this weekend.

The event will be held on Saturday at the Westwood Center in Poplar Bluff.

The Benefit will be from 6 to 10 pm and will feature sandwiches, adult beverages, soft drinks, live music, and a silent auction. Before the benefit begins, there will be a dog spring fashion show and parade from 2 to 4 pm.

Proceeds will go to help the AWA’s soon to open no-kill animal shelter. A grand opening date for the shelter will be announced during the Benefit.  

Tickets are $35 and can be purchased at the AWA Headquarters located at 1904 South Westwood in Poplar Bluff.

STATE OFFICIALS REMIND MOTORISTS TO MOVE OVER FOR EMERGENCY VEHICLES

Mother’s Day is coming up on Sunday and state officials are reminding motorists to obey speed limits and move over for emergency vehicles.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is joining troopers from four area states in a “Slow Down, Move Over” enforcement campaign this weekend.

Law enforcement agencies will be working toward preventing crashes, saving lives, and raising awareness about the dangers of speed through May 8th.

Thursday, May 5, 2022

SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE WEATHER TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas are under a slight risk of severe weather for today.

According to a hazardous weather outlook from the National Weather Service, thunderstorms are likely today and tonight with isolated severe storms possible.

Officials say that the main hazards will be isolated damaging winds and large hail, however a tornado or two cannot be ruled out.

The highest risk of severe storms will be from the mid-afternoon to early evening hours. 

ONE ARRESTED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY ON MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES

A Malden man was arrested Wednesday in Dunklin County on multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Joseph Ledbetter was taken into custody shortly after 8 am on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, driving while intoxicated – drugs, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Ledbetter also reportedly had a felony probation violation warrant.

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

MISSOURI HUNTERS CAN NOW APPLY FOR ELK AND BEAR PERMITS

Missouri hunters are now able to apply for bull elk and bear permits.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is offering five permits to hunt bull elk in Missouri this fall with at least one permit designated for qualifying area landowners and the remaining permits for the general public.

The MDC is also offering 400 permits for the taking of a maximum of 40 black bears during the second Missouri black-bear hunting season this fall.

Only Missouri residents who will be at least 11 years old by the first day of the hunt for which they are applying are eligible to apply. The application period will be through May 31st and all permits will be assigned through a random drawing.

There are multiple ways to apply for each permit including by calling 1-800-392-4115 or by going online to mdc.mo.gov/buypermits. 

POPLAR BLUFF DOG SHOW SET FOR THIS SATURDAY

Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation and the Ozark Federal Credit Union are hosting a Dog Show this weekend.

The event will be from 10 am to noon on Saturday at the downtown Poplar Bluff dog park.

There will be multiple categories for all sizes of dogs.

Registration is $5 per dog and you can register online at pbparks.org.

For more information, call 573-686-8645.

CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR MULTIPLE ROAD PROJECTS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Multiple contracts have been awarded for road projects throughout Southeast Missouri.

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded eight contracts for Southeast District projects during its regular meeting on Wednesday.

Awarded contracts include pavement repair projects, along with projects for improved lighting, chevron installation, and striping.

Multiple contracts involved projects along Routes 60 and 67.

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

SHOULDER REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route J in Stoddard County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder repairs.  

The section of Route J to be reduced is located from Route F to County Road 431 near Bloomfield. 

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

Wednesday, May 4, 2022

SUSPECT TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOR KILLING A TURKEY

A man has been taken into custody in Ripley County for killing a turkey.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, a Ripley County Conservation agent was patrolling during the recent youth spring turkey season when he heard a gunshot in an area where a turkey was gobbling.

The agent made contact with a man who was returning to a four-wheeler with no gun or turkey.

During a search, agents located a breasted-out turkey carcass, shotgun hull, hidden gun, and a breast of meat in a plastic bag.

Officials say that the suspect, whose name was not released, was then taken into custody and faces charges for harvesting turkey during closed season.

TWO LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS SELECTED FOR THE DONNA MOULTON SCHOLARSHIP

Two local high school students have been chosen to receive the Donna Moulton Scholarship from the Philanthropic Educational Organization Chapter MF.

Jenny Casteel, a 2022 graduate from Twin Rivers High School, and Rena Payne, a 2022 graduate from Poplar Bluff High School, were selected for the award.

The scholarship was created in 1990 to celebrate the life of Donna Moulton and to assist women attending Three Rivers College who are majoring in education.

Moulton was an educator in the Poplar Bluff R-1 School District for 10 years. 

CHICAGO WOMAN ARRESTED FOR COCAINE IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Authorities in Southeast Missouri have arrested an Illinois woman on a cocaine charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Leila Lockett, of Chicago, Illinois, is facing a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – cocaine, following her arrest on Monday.

Lockett is also facing charges of operating a motor vehicle without a valid license and speeding 20 to 25 miles per hour over the limit. 

TRAUMA INFORMED TRAINING SESSION SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

Three Rivers College will be hosting a training session regarding trauma today in Poplar Bluff.

The Trauma-Informed training session has been scheduled for 2 to 4 p.m. at the Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center on the TRC Poplar Bluff campus.

The training will be conducted by Licensed Clinical Social Worker Carol Williams and will assist participants in learning how to recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma in patients, families, professionals, and their community.

CREWS TO BE IN DUNKLIN COUNTY TODAY FOR REPAIRS ON MISSOURI HIGHWAY 53 

Missouri Highway 53 in Dunklin County will be reduced today as contractor crews replace a culvert under the roadway. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of Highway 53 involved in the project is located from County Road 211 to County Road 215.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE PROJECTS TO BEGIN TODAY IN THE VAN BUREN AREA

U.S. Highway 60 in Carter County will be reduced at multiple locations over the next week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance. 

According to officials, the work zones will be located from Route Y to County Road 163 and from Highway 103 to Elm Street in the Van Buren area. 

Weather permitting, work will take place in both locations from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Thursday, May 12th.   

Tuesday, May 3, 2022

INVESTIGATION CONTINUES INTO SHOOTING IN THE MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, a total of three people were shot during an incident over the weekend in the Missouri bootheel.

Steele Police Chief Billy Joe Stanfield tells KWOC News that an officer responded to an area on West Main Street on Sunday in reference to gunshots.

At the scene, the officer observed a large group of approximately 100 people fleeing the area on foot and in vehicles.

Stanfield says that it was later learned three people had been shot and sent to area hospitals by private vehicles.

Two of the victims were treated and released, however a third remains in critical but stable condition.

Stanfield has requested assistance from the Missouri State Highway Patrol Division of Drug and Crime Control and Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Department for the investigation.

Anybody who has information about the incident is asked to call the Pemiscot County Sheriff Department at 573-333-4101.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS SING NATIONAL ANTHEM BEFORE CARDINALS GAME

Poplar Bluff students were in St. Louis Monday to sing the national anthem

Students from the Poplar Bluff Middle School honor choir performed the anthem before the Cardinals game against the Kansas City Royals.

The Cardinals only needed the PBMS performance, along with Paul Goldschmidt’s solo home run in the first inning, to get the victory, 1-0 over the Royals. 

MULTIPLE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COMMUNITIES NOMINATED FOR 2023 SMALL TOWN SHOWCASE 

Multiple Southeast Missouri communities have been nominated to be featured by the Missouri Humanities Council.

Nominees for the 2023 Small Town Showcase Featured Five include over 40 locations from across the state, including Charleston, Doniphan, and Piedmont

Voting is open through July 1st at MOHumanities.org/2023-featured-five. Winners will be announced by August 1st.  

The Missouri Humanities Council was founded by Congress in 1971 and is one of the fifty-six state and territorial humanities councils that receives support from the National Endowment for the Humanities.

CWD FOUND IN DEER IN TWO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTIES

Conservation officials say that chronic wasting disease was found in deer in 18 counties across the state, including two in southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, more than 32,000 deer were sampled and tested for CWD between July 2021 and April 2022. Of the deer sampled, 86 tested positive for CWD.

Six of the deer that tested positive were in Oregon County. One was located in Howell County, which was the first detection of the disease in that county.

CWD is a deadly illness in white-tailed deer and other members of the deer family. The MDC is working with conservation partners to find cases of CWD and limit its spread. You can learn more about the disease from the MDC website at mdc.mo.gov/cwd.

BLUNT ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR POSSIBLE NOMINATION TO SERVICE ACADEMIES

Young adults in Missouri have an opportunity to apply to attend one of the United States Service Academies.

U.S. Senator Roy Blunt announced yesterday that he is accepting applications from Missourians interested in attending the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and U.S. Naval Academy.

Applicants must be between 17 and 23 years of age, U. S. citizens, and legal residents of Missouri. A committee of Missouri residents will review applicants’ files and present their recommendations to Blunt for a formal nomination in January.

Nominees will be evaluated using the “equal and competitive” method for selection and on the basis of personal merit, including: evidence of character, leadership, scholarship, and motivation.

The link to the application can be found on the Academy Application Process page of www.blunt.senate.gov. All application materials must be received on or before September 2nd, 2022.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT SET FOR TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from U.S. 60 to County Road 462. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. both today and tomorrow.  

Monday, May 2, 2022

HAIL, FLASH FLOODING, AND WIND DAMAGE REPORTED DURING WEEKEND STORMS

Saturday afternoon’s storm system brought hail and wind damage to areas of Southeast Missouri.

According to the National Weather Service, golf ball sized hail was reported near the junction of US Highway 60 and Highway 21 N in Carter County. There were also reports of hail in Wayne, Reynolds, and Madison counties.

The thunderstorms also caused limbs to be knocked down and roads to be flooded in the Van Buren area. Winds were estimated to be 45 to 50 miles per hour. 

Weather officials say that most of Southeast Missouri also has a slight chance of severe weather for today, mainly focused on this evening and tonight.

SHOOTING INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY IN MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

Authorities in the Missouri boot heel are investigating a shooting.

According to the Steele Police Department, the shooting occurred early Sunday morning on West Main Street.

Officials with Pemiscot County Emergency Services say that police responded to a call of a large fight involving weapons.

Investigators from the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s office were requested to assist due to a large crowd being present and reports of several shots fired with at least one person injured from a gunshot wound.

Anybody who has information about the incident is asked to call the Pemiscot County Sheriff Department at 573-333-4101.

REMEMBRANCE EVENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY TO COMMEMORATE THE 1927 POPLAR BLUFF TORNADO

Next week will mark the 95th anniversary of the 1927 tornado that killed almost 100 people.

On May 9th, 1927 an EF4 tornado swept from Imboden, Arkansas to Poplar Bluff and ultimately killed 98 people as well as severely damaging the Poplar Bluff area.

A remembrance event to commemorate the anniversary of the tornado will be held today on the 2nd floor of the Butler County Courthouse.

A reception will be held at 11 am, followed by brief remarks at 11:30 am. 

NEELYVILLE MAN ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG CHARGE

A Neelyville man was arrested over the weekend on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 60 year old Glen Yandell was arrested Saturday morning on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine.

Yandell also reportedly had a misdemeanor warrant out of Ripley County for failure to appear.

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

BRIDGE REPAIRS SET FOR TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

U.S. Highway 62 in Dunklin County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.  

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from County Road 217 to the State line.  

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  

MODOT CREWS TO BE IN STODDARD COUNTY TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Route AB in Stoddard County will be reduced early this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.  

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that the work zone will be located from County Road 512 to County Road 510. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. both today and tomorrow. 

Wednesday, April 27, 2022

ONE IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO BUTLER COUNTY SHOOTING

Authorities in Butler County say that a man has been taken into custody in connection to a shooting on Tuesday.

One victim received non-life threatening injuries in connection to the shooting, which was located in the area of Highway 53 and Thomas Street.  The victim was transported to an area hospital.

Few details about the incident have been released, but Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs says that a suspect was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon.

The suspect has been identified as 36 year old Kevin Wallace, of Poplar Bluff.

THREE INJURED IN CRASH AFTER VEHICLE RUNS STOP SIGN IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Three Stoddard County residents were injured in a two vehicle crash Tuesday morning in Southeast Missouri. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when a 73 year old driver allegedly failed to stop at a stop sign and struck another vehicle.

Three people in the second vehicle were injured, with two of them receiving serious injuries. All three were transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

No injuries were listed for the driver of the first vehicle. 

NATIONAL DRUG TAKE BACK DAY SET FOR APRIL 30TH

Poplar Bluff residents will have a chance to safely dispose of their unused, unwanted, or expired prescription drugs this week.

The Poplar Bluff Police Department will be participating in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 30th from 10 am to 2 pm at the Poplar Bluff Police Station.

Officers in Poplar Bluff will also be handing out medication lock boxes courtesy of Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health.

Numerous area police departments are also participating in the National Drug Take Back Day, including Dexter, Bernie, Malden, and Kennett.

You can find a drop off location in your area by going to DEATakeBack.com.

22nd ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT SET FOR THIS WEEK

The 22nd Annual Poplar Bluff School Foundation Golf Tournament is coming up at the end of this week.

The four person scramble tournament is scheduled for Friday, April 29th, at Ozark Ridge Golf Course. Tee time will be at noon.

All proceeds from the event will go towards innovative teacher grants and a student scholarship for a PBHS graduate entering the field of education.

For more information, contact Carla Thompson at 573-785-7751.

PB CHRISTIAN SOCCER CAMP TO BE HELD AT BLACK RIVER SOCCER FIELDS IN POPLAR BLUFF

The 9th Annual PB Christian Soccer Camp will be held in May at the Black River Soccer Complex in Poplar Bluff.

The camp is for students from kindergarten to high school and no experience is necessary. The registration fee is $45 through May 1st, going up to $55 after May 1st. The camp will be held over three days from May 27th to May 29th.

Each participant will receive a shirt, water bottle, and soccer ball. Lunch will also be provided daily.

Parents can register their children on the PB Christian Soccer Camp Facebook page or get a form at the Poplar Bluff Park Department.

For more information, call 573-778-5369.

TRAUMA INFORMED TRAINING TO BE HELD AT THREE RIVERS COLLEGE

Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a training session on the impacts of trauma in early May.

The Trauma-Informed training is scheduled for 2 to 4 p.m. on May 4th, at the Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center on the TRC Poplar Bluff campus.

The training will be conducted by Licensed Clinical Social Worker Carol Williams.

The training will assist participants in learning how to recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma in patients, families, professionals, and a community.

Tuesday, April 26, 2022

DEXTER MAN SENTENCED FOR ENTICEMENT OF A CHILD

A Dexter man has been sentenced to two decades in prison for using social media to try to meet up with what he thought was an underage child for sex.

Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney, Russ Oliver, tells KWOC News that a Stoddard County jury found 42 year old Robert Cooper guilty of felony enticement of a child in March.

Oliver says that the case centered on the defendant luring, through Facebook Messenger, what he thought was a 13 year old girl to a motel in Dexter.  However, at the motel Cooper met with Dexter Police.

Cooper was later interviewed by a Dexter Detective and admitted that he was the person engaged in the Facebook messaging conversation with the fake 13 year old girl.

A sentencing hearing was held on Monday where the judge accepted the recommendation from the jury and sentenced Cooper to 20 years incarceration.

MULTIPLE POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR STUDENTS SELECTED TO PERFORM AT STATE FESTIVAL

Numerous choir students from Poplar Bluff High School will be performing at a state music festival this week.

According to school officials, multiple students earned exemplary ratings in solo and ensemble performances during the Missouri District Music Festival, hosted at Three Rivers College.

The students who qualified to advance to the state level include Kerrigan Conley-Halliburton, Bralin Duckett, Brent Hanley, Emma Harris, Christian Redding, Isaac Reid, Lexy Rowland, Ella Skillman, Emma Tinsley, and Dawson Vaughan.

The qualifiers will perform at the Missouri State High School Activities Association State Music Festival beginning on Thursday at the University of Missouri in Columbia.

DEXTER MAN TO SERVE 15 YEARS IN PRISON FOR ATTEMPTED EXPLOITATION OF A CHILD

A Dexter man will serve over a decade in prison for the attempted exploitation of a child.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 41 year old Nathan Dillinger has been sentenced to serve 15 years in federal prison for the offense of Attempted Sexual Exploitation of a Minor.

At his guilty plea hearing last year, Dillinger admitted that he installed multiple hidden cameras throughout his residence for the purpose of capturing nude videos of a child.

Footage from the recordings was later discovered on Dillinger’s mobile phone.

After serving his 15-year sentence, Dillinger was ordered to be placed on supervised release for the rest of his life. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.

ROXIE ROAD IN POPLAR BLUFF TO BE CLOSED FOR PART OF THIS WEEK

A Poplar Bluff road will be closed for part of this week.

According to the Poplar Bluff Street Department, Roxie Road will be closed between Shelby and Maud today and tomorrow.

Officials say the closure is for core drilling that will be necessary before a bridge can be replaced.

Roxie Road is scheduled to reopen on April 28th.

WOMAN FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR SILVA

A Wayne County woman has been flown to a regional hospital following a single vehicle wreck Monday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 65 year old Debra Kirkpatrick, of Silva, was driving on Highway 34 when her vehicle ran off the side of the road, struck a culvert, and overturned.

Kirkpatrick received serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a St. Louis hospital. 

MULTIPLE AREA SENIOR CENTERS RECEIVE GRANTS TO IMPROVE FACILITIES

Multiple Southeast Missouri senior centers have been awarded grants to improve their facilities.

According to the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, a total of 18 agencies that operate senior centers in rural communities have been presented grants from the Coover Regional Senior Center Support Grant Program.

One of the agencies to receive a grant in Southeast Missouri was the Butler County Council on Aging, who is getting over $14,000 to support the purchase of a pallet jack and kitchen appliances for the center in Poplar Bluff.

The Ripley County Senior Citizens Club is getting $24,800 to support the purchase of two used vans for meal-delivery services in Doniphan. 

Monday, April 25, 2022

PROPOSED OVERLAY PLAN TO BRING REQUIRED TEN DIGIT DIALING TO 573 AREA CODE

Phone users in the 573 area code will soon have to start using the area code when making local phone calls.

The Missouri Public Service Commission has directed the North American Numbering Plan Administrator to proceed with an overlay plan to alleviate the exhaustion of available telephone numbers in the 573 area code in Missouri.

Officials say that an overlay plan introduces a new area code within the entire area code, so that multiple area codes are assigned to the same area. An overlay plan does not require any customers to change telephone numbers, but it does require ten-digit dialing on all local calls. 

The 573 area code serves multiple communities in Eastern and Central Missouri, including Poplar Bluff, Sikeston, Caruthersville, Jefferson City, Columbia, and Rolla. 

No timetable was given for when the new area code or required ten-digit dialing would go into effect. 

NEELYVILLE LADY TIGERS WIN OFC SOFTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

Neelyville is celebrating a conference softball championship.

The Lady Tigers defeated the Doniphan Donettes Friday night, 4-0, to win the 2022 Ozark Foothills Conference tournament at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

The championship was a pitcher’s duel except for the bottom of the fourth inning where Neelyville put up all four of the runs that were scored in the game.

In the OFC Third Place Game Friday afternoon, East Carter defeated Clearwater 10-0.

Archives of every game broadcast from the 2022 OFC Softball Tournament are available for you to watch at Facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC and Youtube.com/RiverRadioPB. 

TWO ARRESTED ON METH CHARGES IN STODDARD COUNTY

Two people were arrested on meth charges Friday in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 52 year old Thomas Eggert, of Bernie, and 46 year old Cynthia Ladd, of Dexter, were each arrested shortly after noon Friday on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance for methamphetamine, diazepam, and hydrocodone.

They are also each facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, they were transported to the Stoddard County Jail. 

TEEN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A WRECK NEAR DONIPHAN

An area teenager was flown from the scene of a single vehicle wreck early Sunday morning near Doniphan.

According to authorities, a 16 year old male was driving on Missouri Highway 142 when his vehicle ran off the roadway, struck an embankment, and overturned. The wreck occurred shortly before 2 am.

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

MAINTENANCE TO CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF CARTER COUNTY BRIDGE

Route B in Carter County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance. 

The closure will be located from Route K to U.S. Highway 60. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.   

MODOT CREWS TO BE WORKING ON US HIGHWAY 62 NEAR MALDEN THIS WEEK

U.S. Highway 62 in New Madrid County will be reduced this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway. 

The section of roadway to be reduced is located between County Road 276 and County Road 544 near Malden.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Thursday.   

Friday, April 22, 2022

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FOUND GUILTY OF MURDER AND ARMED CRIMINAL ACTION

A Poplar Bluff man is facing spending the rest of his life in prison after being found guilty of murder.

Butler County Prosecuting Attorney Kacey Proctor tells KWOC News, that this week 46 year old Michael Choate, was found guilty by a Dunklin County jury of the offenses of murder 2nd degree and armed criminal action.

The charges stem from an incident that took place in August of 2019 at a camper trailer parked off of County Road 476 in Butler County.

Deputy’s responded to the scene in reference to a call involving an accidental gunshot victim. Michael Choate himself was the caller and the victim was the defendant’s girlfriend. At the scene, deputies found the victim deceased, with a single gunshot wound to her head. 

Witnesses testified that the defendant repeatedly assaulted and threatened the victim throughout their three-year relationship. Two of the witnesses testified that the defendant had threatened the victim with a firearm in the past.

The jury deliberated for nearly four hours before it returned a guilty verdict on both charges. Choate is facing life in prison on the murder charge and an additional fifteen years for the armed criminal action charge. Sentencing is set for June 16th in Dunklin County.

OFC SOFTBALL CHAMPION TO BE DECIDED TONIGHT

The Ozark Foothills Conference Softball tournament is set to come to an end tonight.  

Doniphan and Neelyville will face off in the championship game tonight at 7 pm. That game will be played at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.   

The third place game between East Carter and Clearwater was scheduled to be played yesterday, however it was postponed due to inclement weather. The game will be played this afternoon at 3 pm at Clearwater High School.   

You will be able to watch both games of the OFC Softball tournament live at Facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC and youtube.com/RiverRadioPB. 

TRIKE A THON FOR ST. JUDE SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

River Radio and Missouri Highlands Medical Clinic will be hosting a Trike-A-Thon for St. Jude this weekend.

The event will be held on Saturday at McLane Park in Poplar Bluff.

Attendees can bike anytime between 9 am and noon and registration forms are available at any Missouri Highlands Location.

There will also be a bike and stroller decorating contest during the event.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CITY CHOSEN TO HAVE BEST TASTING WATER IN THE STATE 

A Southeast Missouri city has been selected as having the best tasting water in Missouri.

The Missouri Rural Water Association held the finals for its water taste-test competition, the Show-Me Tap Water Round-Up, on Wednesday.

A panel of judges deemed the City of Puxico to have the best tasting water. The criteria for the winning water sample included clarity, bouquet, and taste. There were four other finalists in the competition, including Bunker, Belle, New Haven, and Steelville.

Puxico will now go on to compete nationally against other states’ entries at the Great American Water Taste Test, which will occur in February 2023 during the Rural Water Rally in Washington, D.C.

POPLAR BLUFF PARKS AND RECREATION IS CELEBRATING EARTH DAY AT HENDRICKSON PARK

Today is Earth Day and officials at Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation say that a celebration will be held at an area park.

Attendees are encouraged to come create upcycled crafts during the Earth Day Crafts celebration this evening.

The event has been scheduled for 5:30 to 6:30 pm at Hendrickson Park in Poplar Bluff. 

RAILROAD CROSSING REPAIRS TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF ROAD IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

U.S. Route 61 in New Madrid County will be closed today so construction crews can repair the railroad crossing. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway to be closed is located between Interstate 55 and Bloomfield Lane in New Madrid.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Poplar Bluff Man Found Guilty of Murder in the Second Degree and Armed Criminal Action

A Poplar Bluff man was found guilty of murder and armed criminal action. Butler County Prosecuting Attorney Kacey L. Proctor tells KWOC News, 46 year old Michael J. Choate, was found guilty by a Dunklin County jury of the offenses of murder 2nd degree and armed criminal action. 

The charges stem from an incident that took place in August of 2019 at a camper trailer parked off of County Road 476 in Butler County. Deputy’s responded to the scene in reference to a call involving an accidental gunshot victim. Michael Choate himself was the caller and the victim was the defendant’s girlfriend for the previous three years. Upon arrival, deputies entered the camper and found the victim to be deceased and seated on the couch with a single gunshot wound to her head.  

Four witnesses who were family members or friends of the victim and defendant testified that the defendant repeatedly assaulted and threatened the victim throughout their three-year relationship. Two of the witnesses testified that the defendant had threatened the victim with a firearm in the past. 

The jury deliberated for nearly four hours before it returned a guilty verdict for the Class A felony of Murder in the Second Degree and the unclassified felony of Armed Criminal Action. The defendant is facing life in prison on Murder in the Second Degree and additional fifteen years for Armed Criminal Action. Sentencing is set for June 16, 2022, in Dunklin County.

Thursday, April 21, 2022

BUTLER COUNTY OFFICIALS SAY THEY HAVE SEEN A RECENT INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF SUICIDES

Officials in Butler County say that they have seen an increase in the amount of suicides this year.

Butler County Coroner Jim Akers tells KWOC News that there has been at least nine suicides over the past nine weeks.

In addition there have been a total of 20 overdose deaths in Butler County this year.

Akers is urging anyone who is feeling suicidal or having suicidal thoughts to contact help immediately.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free number, 1-800-273-TALK(8255) connects the caller to a certified crisis center near where the call is placed.

You can also chat with a counselor online at SuicidePreventionLifeline.org/chat/.

That website has information for anyone who believes that a friend or family member is acting suicidal and steps they can take to help people who might be suicidal.  

Akers also said that an average of 22 veterans a day commit suicide. In addition to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, Veterans are also encouraged to reach out to their local VA Medical Center for resources if they are feeling depressed or suicidal. 

OFC SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT THIRD PLACE GAME POSTPONED

The Ozark Foothills Conference Softball tournament is set to resume play on Friday.

The third place game between East Carter and Clearwater was scheduled to be played tonight, however the game has been postponed due to inclement weather. No make up date has been announced.  

The championship game will be played Friday night at 7 pm where Doniphan will take on Neelyville.

The championship game will be played at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff and you will be able to watch it live online at Facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC and youtube.com/RiverRadioPB.

SEARCH LEADS TO DRUG ARREST IN STODDARD COUNTY 

A Bernie area man has been taken into custody after authorities executed a search warrant on Wednesday.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office, Stoddard County deputies, members of the SEMO Drug Task Force and the Missouri State Highway Patrol served the search warrant at a residence on Kay Drive near Bernie.

During the search, officers located approximately 23 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 110 grams of marijuana, assorted pills, and several items of drug paraphernalia.

The owner of the residence, 56 year old James Jankowski, was taken into custody and booked into the Stoddard County Jail pending the filing of formal charges.

PARK ROAD COLLAPSES NEAR VAN BUREN

Officials at Ozark National Scenic Riverways say that a park road will be temporarily closed.

NPS Road 123 south of Van Buren, locally known as the “Tram Road” will be closed due to a collapse of the road and nearby slope. The closure is approximately 7.5 miles south of Van Buren and 1 mile north of Chilton.

Officials say that the collapse was likely caused by wet conditions and ground saturation. The slope on the road’s downhill side collapsed, taking with it a large portion of the road surface.

The remaining pavement is continuing to crumble and is unsafe for traffic.

The road will be closed to thru traffic indefinitely while plans are developed for repairing or rerouting the roadway.

CITY OF KENNETT AWARDED ALMOST TWO MILLION DOLLARS FOR COMMUNITY FACILITIES

The City of Kennett will be able to make improvements to area facilities thanks to a new grant.

According to Missouri Representative Andrew McDaniel, Kennett has been awarded a community block grant for over 1.75 million dollars.

The grant money is to go towards community facilities. 

POWER OUTAGES REPORTED WEDNESDAY NIGHT IN POPLAR BLUFF

Some Poplar Bluff residents were without power for a period of time Wednesday.

A strong Thunderstorm system crossed Poplar Bluff Wednesday evening. Shortly after 6 pm, there were reports of power outages all over the city on social media.

By 7 pm, many were reporting that their power had been restored.

Wednesday, April 20, 2022

CHAMPIONSHIP GAME SET AT 2022 OFC SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT

A full day of action on Tuesday has left two teams to battle it out for the 2022 Ozark Foothills Conference softball championship.

A total of five games was played Tuesday during the tournament at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

In the three quarterfinal matchups, four seed Doniphan defeated five seed Twin Rivers 6-2, two seed Neelyville defeated seven seed Naylor 16-3, and three seed Clearwater beat six seed Greenville 8-1.

In the two semi-final matchups on Tuesday, Doniphan defeated the top seed East Carter 8-1 and Neelyville beat Clearwater 13-1.

The championship game between Neelyville and Doniphan, as well as the third place game, is scheduled to be played this afternoon, if the weather allows.  

You will be able to watch all of the remaining games at the 2022 OFC Softball Tournament live online at Facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC and youtube.com/RiverRadioPB. 

43RD ANNUAL OLD GREENVILLE BLACKPOWDER RENDEZVOUS TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND

The 43rd Annual Old Greenville Blackpowder Rendezvous has been scheduled for this weekend.

The event, presented by the Crowley’s Ridge Blackpowder Club and the US Army Corps of Engineers at Lake Wappapello, will be held from April 22nd through April 24th at the Greenville Recreation Area. 

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

For more information, call 573-222-8562.

11TH ANNUAL SARAH JARBOE WHITE UCAN WALK SET FOR THIS MONTH

The United Cancer Assistance Network will be hosting the 11th Annual Sarah Jarboe White UCAN walk later this month.

The event has been scheduled for 9:30 am on Saturday, April 30th, at the Danny Bell Cancer Treatment Center in Poplar Bluff.

Officials say that over $320,000 dollars has been raised from the event to help cancer patients with fuel cards, transportation, utilities, groceries, medical expenses, and many other necessities while they are going through chemotherapy and radiation and unable to continue to work.

For more information, go to the 2022 UCAN Walk event page on Facebook. 

NATIONAL DRUG TAKE BACK DAY SET FOR APRIL 30TH

Poplar Bluff residents will have a chance to safely dispose of their unused, unwanted, or expired prescription drugs this month.

The Poplar Bluff Police Department will be participating in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 30th from 10 am to 2 pm at the Poplar Bluff Police Station.

Numerous area police departments are also participating in the National Drug Take Back Day, including Dexter, Bernie, Malden, and Kennett.

You can find a drop off location in your area by going to DeaTakeBack.com.

ROXIE ROAD IN POPLAR BLUFF TO BE CLOSED FOR PART OF NEXT WEEK

A Poplar Bluff road will be closed for part of next week.

According to the Poplar Bluff Street Department, Roxie Road will be closed between Shelby and Maud on April 26th and 27th.

Officials say the closure is for core drilling that will be necessary before a bridge can be replaced.

Roxie Road is scheduled to reopen on April 28th.

BRIDGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

U.S. Highway 53 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge repairs. 

The work zone is located from County Road 206 to County Road 207, near Campbell. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. today and tomorrow. 

Tuesday, April 19, 2022

SUSPECT IN STABBING INCIDENT SHOOTS HIMSELF ON POPLAR BLUFF OVERPASS

A male subject reportedly shot himself following a stabbing incident Monday in Poplar Bluff.

Lieutenant Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that at around 10 am Monday morning, officers responded to a location on Roxie Drive regarding a stabbing.

At the scene, the officers found a 31-year-old woman who was suffering from multiple stab wounds. Officers were told that the suspect had fled from the scene. The woman was transported to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

A short time later, officers were dispatched to the Highway 67 clover leaf, just north of Highway W, regarding a male subject sitting on the edge of the overpass. While heading to the scene, officers learned that the subject was possibly armed with a handgun and could be the suspect from the stabbing.

Upon arriving, officers observed 28-year-old Jeffery Carter Jr., of Poplar Bluff, turn a weapon on himself. Officials say that Carter passed away as a result of this self-inflicted gunshot wound and was also confirmed as being the suspect in the stabbing.

The Poplar Bluff Police Department, Butler County Sheriff’s Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Poplar Bluff Fire Department, and Butler County EMS are all involved in the investigation.

OFC SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT TO BEGIN TODAY

The Ozark Foothills Conference softball tournament is scheduled to begin today.

The tournament, featuring seven area schools, will start today with five games at Three Rivers College.

Today’s action will start with Twin Rivers taking on Doniphan at 11 a.m., followed by Naylor vs. Neelyville at 1 pm. The final game of the quarterfinals will be a matchup between Greenville and Clearwater at 3 pm.

The top seed East Carter received a bye to the Semi-finals where they will play the Twin Rivers-Doniphan winner at 5 pm. The final game today at 7 pm will be the second Semi-final matchup between the winners of the Naylor-Neelyville and Greenville-Clearwater games.

Every game of the tournament will be broadcast live on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page at facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC and the River Radio Youtube page at youtube.com/RiverRadioPB. 

ONE DEAD, ANOTHER INJURED, FOLLOWING HEAD ON COLLISION IN MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

An Arkansas man has died following a head on collision in the Missouri bootheel.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Derek Waddell, of Paragould, was driving on Interstate 155, one mile south of Caruthersville, when his vehicle crossed the median and struck another vehicle head on.

The wreck occurred shortly before 9 am Monday morning.

Waddell was taken to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The driver of the second vehicle suffered minor injuries.

GRANT AWARDED TO SEMO FOOD BANK TO CONTINUE VETERAN HEALTHY FOOD PROGRAM

The Southeast Missouri Food Bank has been awarded a grant to continue a program for feeding veterans healthy food.

The Food Bank was awarded $46,500 through the Disabled American Veterans Charitable Service Trust to continue the Veterans Healthy Food Surplus Program.

The food bank began providing boxes of healthy food to veterans in 2019 through a continuing partnership with the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff. The program expanded in 2021, serving 75 veterans each month.

Eighty-eight percent of the 58 veterans in the program who completed both a pre- and post-survey reported improved health with access to the healthier foods.

The boxes are distributed through the VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff, with veterans receiving 35 to 40 pounds of food, including lean protein and fresh fruit and vegetables, each month.

PRELIMINARY SURVEY INDICATES TORNADO CROSSED INTO DUNKLIN COUNTY LAST WEEK

A preliminary survey indicates that a weak tornado crossed from Mississippi County, Arkansas to Dunklin County, Missouri during last Wednesday’s storms.

According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, an EF-0 tornado started at 2:50 pm Wednesday, approximately five miles south of Hornersville and continued to the northeast for almost 8 miles.

The tornado had a maximum width of 100 yards and an estimated peak wind of 85 miles per hour.

The tornado damaged a mobile home unit as well as an outbuilding in southern Dunklin County. 

PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT

Route H in Pemiscot 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 Pemiscot County Roads 536 and 538.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Monday, April 18, 2022

ONE KILLED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MOTORCYCLE WRECK

One person has died in connection to a motorcycle wreck in Southeast Missouri.

According to authorities, 61 year old Walter Hawkes, of Patton, was driving on Highway 72 Saturday evening when his motorcycle ran off the side of the road and struck an embankment.

Hawkes was ejected from the vehicle during the wreck.

He was pronounced dead at the scene by Assistant Bollinger County Coroner Megan Cook.

WOMAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 38 year old Janet McFall, of Dexter, was taken into custody early Sunday morning on felony charges of resisting arrest, delivery of a controlled substance into a jail facility, and possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

McFall also reportedly had a felony Stoddard County warrant for assault as well as a felony probation parole warrant.

Following her arrest, McFall was held at the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office. 

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI RANGER RECEIVES LEADERSHIP AWARD

A ranger at Ozark National Scenic Riverways has received an award for his conduct at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Georgia.

Zack Swindle was recently honored with the Director’s Leadership Award during his graduation from the Land Management Police Training Program.

According to the National Park Service, the Director’s Leadership Award is a prestigious award presented to one member of each graduating class. Recipients are selected by classmates as the student who most embodies the characteristics of a law enforcement leader.

Swindle is a native of Doniphan and entered law enforcement after graduating from Hannibal-LaGrange University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

He spent five years as a conservation agent for the Missouri Department of Conservation before joining the National Park Service in 2021 as a law enforcement ranger at Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

PURSUIT LEADS TO ARREST IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

One person was taken into custody following a pursuit with authorities Friday in Northeast Arkansas.

The chase reportedly started in the Pocahontas area Friday afternoon. The vehicle pursuit ended after the driver ran over a spike strip near Ravenden and fled the scene on foot.

The suspect, Timothy Hughes, was arrested a short time later. He was held at the Randolph County Jail. 

ROAD WORK TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN DONIPHAN

Work in downtown Doniphan will cause delays at an intersection in the city today.

According to the City of Doniphan, the Department of Utilities will be working on underground mainlines in the downtown business district beginning today. 

Officials say that traffic will be limited to one lane on Washington Street at the intersection of State Street.

Motorists are being advised to use caution while driving near the work zone. 

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

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

The section of Route U to be reduced is located from Route H to the Butler County Line.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Friday, April 15, 2022

REMEMBRANCE EVENT SCHEDULED TO COMMEMORATE THE 1927 POPLAR BLUFF TORNADO

Next month will mark the 95th anniversary of the 1927 tornado that killed almost 100 people.

On May 9th, 1927 an EF4 tornado swept from Imboden, Arkansas to Poplar Bluff and ultimately killed 98 people as well as severely damaging the Poplar Bluff area.

A remembrance event to commemorate the anniversary of the tornado will be held on Monday, May 2nd on the 2nd floor of the Butler County Courthouse.

A reception will be held at 11 am, followed by brief remarks at 11:30 am. 

MISSOURI HUNTERS CAN APPLY FOR ELK AND BEAR PERMITS NEXT MONTH

Missouri hunters will be able to apply for bull elk and bear permits next month.

The Missouri Department of Conservation will offer five permits to hunt bull elk in Missouri this fall with at least one permit designated for qualifying area landowners and the remaining permits for the general public.

The MDC will also offer 400 permits for the taking of a maximum of 40 black bears during the second Missouri black-bear hunting season this fall.

Only Missouri residents who will be at least 11 years old by the first day of the hunt for which they are applying are eligible to apply. The application period will be from May 1st to May 31st and all permits will be assigned through a random drawing.

There are multiple ways to apply for each permit including by calling 1-800-392-4115 or by going online to mdc.mo.gov/buypermits. 

POPLAR BLUFF HISTORIC TRAIN DEPOT TO HOST 1ST ATTIC TREASURES SALE

The Poplar Bluff Historic Train Depot will be hosting their 1st Attic Treasures Sale in mid-May.

The event has been scheduled from 8 am to 4 pm on Saturday, May 14th. Outdoor booth space for vendors is still available.

All proceeds from the event will go toward the 2nd Annual Historical Train Depot Quilt Show, which will be held on Saturday, October 15th.

For more information, contact Corretta Bishop at 573-300-6450.

CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR ROADWAY PROJECTS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Multiple contracts have been awarded for roadway projects in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, an over 2.2 million contract was awarded for pavement improvements on Route N in Stoddard County.

An almost $400,000 contract was awarded for replacing a bridge deck on Route WW in Stoddard County.

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded the contracts during its regular meeting earlier this month.

Additional information regarding timelines and impacts to traffic will be released prior to the start of construction.

MISSOURIANS URGED TO LEAVE WILDLIFE IN THE WILD

With spring underway many people are heading outside to enjoy the outdoors.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is encouraging anyone experiencing the wilderness to remember to leave wildlife alone. While it may appear young creatures are abandoned, that’s usually not the case.

MDC State Wildlife Veterinarian Sherri Russell says that the parent will usually return. They are normally out searching for food and cannot constantly attend to their offspring.

Russell added that most newborn animals do not survive in captivity.

The care and rehabilitation of wildlife requires special training, facilities, and permits. Without such proper care, wild animals will remain in poor health and could eventually die.

Russell also cautioned that wildlife can become dangerous as they mature, and can also carry parasites, disease, and have the potential to damage property.

For more information, visit mdc.mo.gov. 

EASTER EGG SAFETY TIPS

Easter is this weekend and that means many families will be decorating eggs to go with celebrating the holiday.

Officials with the Food and Drug administration have released some tips for preparing your eggs for the weekend.

To prevent the spread of dirt and germs, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling eggs at every preparation step, including cooking, cooling, dyeing, and hiding.

Keep hard-cooked Easter eggs refrigerated until just before the hunt. Cold temperatures keep most harmful bacteria from multiplying.

If you are having an Easter egg hunt, hide eggs in places that are protected from dirt, pets, and other potential sources of bacteria such as wild animals.

After the hunt, find all the eggs you have hidden and discard eggs that are cracked or dirty. Bacteria can enter eggs through cracks in the shell.

If your eggs have been at temperatures above 40ºF for more than two hours, don’t eat them. Throw them away. More information about food safety is available at fda.gov. 

Thursday, April 14, 2022

SEVERE STORM SYSTEM CAUSES DAMAGE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS AND MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

A severe storm system crossed our area on Wednesday causing damage in Northeast Arkansas and the Missouri bootheel.

Multiple tornado warnings were issued on Wednesday. A funnel cloud was spotted near Blytheville, however there has been no confirmation that a tornado touched down in our area as a part of the storm system.

There were multiple reports of trees being uprooted and power lines being knocked down, including in Cardwell, Paragould, and near Hayward. 

TWO KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

Two people have died in connection to a wreck Tuesday in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 75 year old Janet Shaffner, of Makanda, Illinois, was driving on US Highway 67 in Pocahontas when her vehicle crossed into the center turn late and struck a truck head on.

Shaffner was killed in the wreck as was a passenger in her vehicle, 73 year old Eldon Shaffner, also of Makanda, Illinois.

No injuries were listed for the driver of the truck. 

SIKESTON R-6 SUPERINTENDENT ANNOUNCES RESIGNATION

The Sikeston R-6 School District is going to be on the search for a new superintendent.

Current superintendent Dr. Tony Robinson announced Wednesday that he was resigning from the position he has held since 2019.

In a letter posted on the Sikeston R-6 website, Robinson said that the resignation was effective June 30th. 

22nd ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT SET FOR THIS MONTH

The 22nd Annual Poplar Bluff School Foundation Golf Tournament is coming up at the end of this month.

The four person scramble tournament is scheduled for Friday, April 29th, at Ozark Ridge Golf Course. Tee time will be at noon.

All proceeds from the event will go towards innovative teacher grants outside of the classroom budget, and a student scholarship for a PBHS graduate entering the field of education.

If you would like to enter a team, or become a hole sponsor, contact Carla Thompson at 573-785-7751.

CARTER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR BRIDGE MAINTENANCE

Route B in Carter County will be closed beginning today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.  

The closure will be located from Route K to U.S. Highway 60.  

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. both today and tomorrow.    

BRIDGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY ON US HIGHWAY 61

U.S. Highway 61 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs over Interstate 55.  

The section of Highway 61 to be reduced is located at the overpass at Exit 44, near Howardville. 

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  

Wednesday, April 13, 2022

INCOMING WEATHER SYSTEM BRINGS HIGHER CHANCES OF SEVERE WEATHER TODAY

A weather system that is crossing Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas will give us higher chances of severe weather today.

Station Meteorologist Dan Holiday tells KWOC News what weather officials are expecting for today.

“The Storm Prediction Center has issued a moderate risk of severe weather. What that is, is a level 4 out of 5 on the severe weather scale.

It's pretty high for us and so that means that we’ll likely see some large hail, damaging winds, even a few tornadoes some of which may be strong. Especially this afternoon as this system moves through.

We’ll likely see some storms pop up ahead of the main line. In fact there could be 2 to 3 rounds of storms, mainly ahead of this cold front. Those storms, if they are isolated, may produce some tornadoes.

Once the long line of storms moves in later on, toward the evening, we will see a better chance of strong damaging winds. This is just going to be one of those days you want to pay very close attention to the radio.

Be ready to move to a place of safety if a tornado warning is issued. That would be a basement, storm cellar, anywhere underground is the number one place to go in the event of a tornado.

If you don't have an underground shelter, an interior hallway on the lowest floor away from windows, like a bathroom, would be the best place to be. But most importantly have a way to get warnings and be prepared to move to a place of safety once warnings are issued.” 

In the event that a warning is issued, you will hear it on Today’s Talk KWOC. 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN APPEARS IN COURT ON TWO COUNTS OF STAUTORY SODOMY

A Poplar Bluff man appeared in court earlier this week after he was arrested on sodomy charges.

According to Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley, an arraignment hearing was held Monday for 53 year old Lee Abraham on two counts of statutory sodomy or attempted statutory sodomy.

The charges stem from an alleged incident earlier this month and the victim in the case is less than 14 years old.

No bond was set and Abraham is scheduled to appear in court again next week. 

AREA LEADERS ATTEND STUDENT SHOWCASE AT POPLAR BLUFF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

A group of area leaders recently attended a student showcase at a Poplar Bluff elementary school.

Eugene Field Elementary School hosted its 9th Annual Leadership Day on April 8th.

School officials say that a group of city officials, church leaders, business professionals, nonprofits, High School Student Council members and educators from across the region attended the student-led showcase.

The event featured speeches and musical performances highlighting service projects, as well as goals tracked and met throughout the school year.

Eugene Field was listed in October as Number 8 in U.S. News and World Report’s ‘Best Elementary Schools’ out of over 1,000 ranked statewide based on Missouri Assessment Program scores in the context of socioeconomic demographics.

Last year, the elementary school was one of only two in the state, both in Poplar Bluff, to be named National ESEA distinguished schools for closing the achievement gap among student groups out of 1,300 Missouri Title 1 education institutions.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI POLICE DEPARTMENT INVESTIGATING ARMED ROBBERY

A southeast Missouri police agency is investigating an armed robbery that occurred earlier this week at a convenience store.

Officials with the Chaffee Police Department tell KWOC News that just before midnight Monday night the Rhodes 101 Convenience Store located on State Highway 77 was robbed at gunpoint.

Two male subjects wearing hoodies with their faces covered brandished a dark colored pistol and demanded the clerk to open the register. An undisclosed amount of cash was taken by the suspects and it appeared the suspects exited the store and ran to the south.

The first suspect is described as a white male, late teens or early twenties, around five feet, ten inches tall, and heavyset. He was wearing light colored cargo pants, a black with gray camo sleeves Nike hoodie, and black and white tennis shoes.

The second suspect is described as a black male, late teens or early twenties, around five feet, seven inches tall, with a slender build. He was wearing light colored skinny jeans with holes in front, a black colored hoodie, and what appeared to be a white colored watch.

Anyone with information on the robbery is asked to contact the Chaffee Police Department at 573-887-6911.

WOLF CREEK TRAIL RUN SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND

A marathon run is coming this weekend to the Poplar Bluff area.

The Poplar Bluff Kiwanis Club and US Forest Service will host the 9th Annual Wolf Creek Trail Run on Saturday at the Wolf Creek Trail, north of Poplar Bluff.

The Half Marathon will begin at 8 am, while the 6K run and 1.7 mile walk will start at 9:30 am.

Proceeds from the event will go to Kiwanis Bacon Memorial Park.

For more information, including pricing and how to register, go to the 2022 Wolf Creek Trail Run Facebook page.

Tuesday, April 12, 2022

POPLAR BLUFF PRINCIPAL AWARDED BY MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL LIBRARIANS

A Poplar Bluff school principal has been awarded by a statewide agency for her support of school libraries.

O’Neal Elementary Principal Dr. Amy Dill was presented the 2022 Missouri Association of School Librarians Award for School Administrators during the organization’s spring conference Monday at Osage Beach.

School officials say that the honor recognizes a school leader who has made a significant contribution toward furthering the role of its school library media center.

Dill is the first Poplar Bluff administrator to receive the award.

ONE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MARSTON WRECK

A Marston man was badly injured late Sunday night in a two vehicle wreck.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the crash occurred when a scooter and a car both attempted to make a turn on Route EE in Marston and collided head on.

The driver of the scooter, identified as 38 year old Ryan Tolle, suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

No injuries were listed for the driver of the car. 

ARREST MADE IN WEEKEND SHOOTING

Caruthersville Police have made an arrest following a shooting over the weekend.

According to authorities, the shooting occurred Saturday at a location on East Fifth Street.

28 year old Deborah Hunter, of Caruthersville, was taken into custody and is facing charges of unlawful use of a weapon, two counts of assault 1st degree, and two counts of armed criminal action.

Following the arrest, Hunter was transported to the Pemiscot County Justice Center. 

YOUNG MISSOURI HUNTERS TAKE ALMOST 3,000 TURKEYS DURING YOUTH WEEKEND

Young hunters in Missouri took almost 3,000 turkeys during this past youth weekend.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, preliminary data shows that young turkey hunters harvested 2,881 birds over April 9th and 10th.

The total was almost 100 over last year’s spring youth weekend total of 2,795.

The regular spring turkey season begins on April 18th and runs through May 8th.

BLOOMFIELD DRAINAGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY

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

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Maple Lane to Idalia Road in Bloomfield.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

SHOULDER REPAIRS TO POSSIBLY CAUSE DELAYS THIS WEEK IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route TT in Stoddard County will be reduced this week so crews can perform shoulder repairs.  

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the work zone is located from Route 60 to County Road 642 in Dudley.  

Weather permitting, work is scheduled to take place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Thursday. 

Monday, April 11, 2022

TWO ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY FOR PROVIDING ILLEGAL NARCOTICS RESULTING IN A DEATH

Two people have been arrested in Butler County for providing illegal narcotics which resulted in a death.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that early Sunday morning, a deputy responded to a residence on County Road 526 in reference to an individual that was unresponsive.

Once the deputy arrived it was apparent that the individual had overdosed. The victim was taken by ambulance to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. The name of the victim is not being released at this time.

An investigation into the death resulted in two individuals being arrested for allegedly providing illegal narcotics that caused the death of the victim. The individuals arrested were 31 year old Ruthie Johnson, of Poplar Bluff, and 20 year old Devlin Cooper, of Pocahontas, Arkansas.

Both are being lodged in the Butler County Justice Center.

The Butler County Sheriff’s Office and SEMO Drug Task Force are continuing with the investigation. Investigators will be requesting formal charges of felony murder for both subjects.

SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Weather officials say that Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas have a slight risk of severe thunderstorms today.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook from the National Weather Service, Scattered thunderstorms are forecast for today and tonight.

Officials say that large hail will be the main severe risk, but an isolated damaging wind gust cannot be ruled out. Locally heavy rain could also lead to isolated flooding issues.

Severe storms are possible again Wednesday afternoon into Wednesday night. Damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes are all possible with the storm system on Wednesday.

ONE IN CUSTODY ON A MILLION DOLLAR BOND FOLLOWING ALLEGED ROBBERY AT A BANK IN DEXTER

A man is in custody following an alleged robbery at a bank in Stoddard County.

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver, 33 year old Mitchell Johnson, of Bonne Terre, is accused of entering a Dexter bank, grabbing money from a female customer’s hand, and then fleeing the scene. He was apprehended a short time later by Dexter Police.

Officers found a note on Johnson indicating that he intended to commit a bank robbery.

Johnson told officers that he intended to use the note he had written to do a robbery at the bank, but when he saw the female holding money, he decided it would be easier to take the money from her.

Johnson is facing two counts of felony stealing and his bond was set at one million dollars, cash only. 

TWO ARRESTED ON ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD CHARGES IN POPLAR BLUFF

Two Poplar Bluff residents are facing charges of endangering the welfare of a child after five children were found living in what was described as unsanitary and unhealthy living conditions.

According to Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley, officers responded to a residence on Butler Street last week to follow up on information that had been received regarding drug activity at the residence.

At the residence, officers found Aaron Medley and Teyrsa Medley, along with five children. The children are all under the age of 10.

Whiteley says that each room of the residence was littered with loose trash and large bags of trash. There was also dirt and a dark hard substance that coated the flooring and baseboards, as well as piles of dirty clothing, trash, used toilet paper, and diapers that covered the bathroom flooring.

Both Aaron and Teyrsa Medley taken into custody on five counts of 1st degree endangering the welfare of a child. Their bond was each set at $10,000.

The Butler County Juvenile Office, Children’s Division, and Social Services all assisted in removing the children from the residence. 

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SET FOR TODAY NEAR MALDEN

Route U in Butler County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

The section of roadway to be reduced is located between Route CC and Route H near Malden.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN WAYNE COUNTY

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

The bridge involved in the project is located over Bennet Creek, just south of County Road 216 near Lodi.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. both today and tomorrow.

Friday, April 8, 2022

TEEN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY AFTER FIREARM FOUND IN VEHICLE ON SCHOOL GROUNDS

A Dexter teenager has been taken into custody after a firearm was found in her vehicle on school property.

Dexter Chief of Police Hank Trout tells KWOC News that on April 5th the Dexter Police Department assisted the Stoddard County Juvenile office with an investigation at Dexter High School.

During the investigation, a handgun was recovered from a 16 year old female student’s vehicle, which was parked on school property.

Trout says that the handgun was not loaded and no ammunition was found. There were also no threats of violence made at any time during the investigation.

The Juvenile Office took custody of the female student and she was transported to the Stoddard County Detention Center. 

SIX ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY DRUG BUST

A narcotics investigation has led to the arrest of multiple individuals in Wayne County.

According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, three search warrants were recently executed as a part of the investigation that led to approximately 22.5 grams of methamphetamine being seized.

A total of six subjects were taken into custody in connection to the investigation. The names of the subjects were not released, however officials say that charges are pending. 

JOB FAIR SET FOR MAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

A Job Fair has been scheduled for this spring in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Butler County Community Resource Council, the Parents Working Committee will host a job fair from 10 am to 2 pm on May 24th at the Black River Coliseum.

The free event is open to both job seekers and employers.

For more information, contact the Community Resource Council at 573-776-7830.

CITY OF POPLAR BLUFF TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE COUNCIL MEETING ON APRIL 18TH

A Public hearing has been scheduled for this month in Poplar Bluff.

According to a post on the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission Facebook page, the City of Poplar Bluff will hold the hearing at 6:45 p.m. on April 18th in the City Council Chambers at the Black River Coliseum.

The meeting is to discuss the past performance by the City in carrying out the 220 generator project for the new police department.

Due to a conflict with the timeline of the contractor, the City could not adhere to the Community Development Block Grant requirements, therefore forfeiting the grant funding for the project.

For more information, contact City Clerk Nevada Young at 573-686-8620.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS TAKE INITIATIVE TO REMOVE INVASIVE TREES FROM SCHOOL CAMPUS

A group of Poplar Bluff students has been part of a project to remove hundreds of non-native, invasive pear trees from the Poplar Bluff High School Campus.

According to school officials, the PBHS Science and Environment Club partnered with the FFA to take on the project last month, soliciting help from the Maintenance Department, among other individuals.

PBHS agriculture teacher and FFA sponsor Kathryn Clark said that Callery pear trees, better known as Bradfords, have been on her radar since the campus relocation of 2016.

According to state conservation experts, the trees crowd out habitats needed by birds and wildlife, out-competing native vegetation for light, water and nutrients.

VOLUNTEERS ENCOURAGED TO CLEAN UP LITTER FROM MISSOURI HIGHWAYS

This month marks the return of Missouri’s No More Trash Bash.

The annual event by the Missouri Department of Transportation encourages volunteers to clean up litter adjacent to highways to help beautify Missouri throughout the month of April.

Officials say it has been held every spring since 2004 except for 2020.

MoDOT will provide trash bags and safety vests to anyone who volunteers.  Regionally, events will be announced that people can come join in the litter pickup.

To learn more about how you can safely participate, call 1-888-ASK-MODOT.