Tuesday September 13, 2022

ONE DEAD AFTER VEHICLE STRIKES PEDESTRIAN IN SHANNON COUNTY 

An area woman was killed in a single vehicle wreck Saturday evening. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred in rural Shannon County, when a pedestrian identified as 83 year old Mary Lakey, of Birch Tree, was struck by a vehicle. 

Officials say that Lakey was pronounced dead at the scene by Shannon County Coroner Sam Murphy. No injuries were reported for the driver of the vehicle.

TALLAPOOSA MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES 

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

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old Johnathan Newsom, of Tallapoosa, was taken into custody Sunday evening on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. 

Newsom is also facing felony charges of resisting arrest by fleeing and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. 

Following the arrest, Newsom was transported to the Dunklin County Jail.

PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENT PROJECT SCHEDULED TO START TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY 

Route FF in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction beginning today as contractor crews perform pavement improvements.   

The section of roadway is located between Route E and Route 114 near Essex.  

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Tuesday, September 20th from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. 

LOCKDOWN INITIATED FOLLOWING REPORT OF COMMUNITY THREAT NEAR NEELYVILLE SCHOOL 

A Butler County school was placed under lockdown on Monday. 

According to school officials, the lockdown was initiated for the Neelyville R-IV School District following a community threat in the area. 

Law enforcement was informed and out of an abundance of caution, the school district was placed on lockdown for a short time. It was determined shortly after that, the school and all students were not in any immediate danger. 

PIEDMONT MAN FACING MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST 

A Piedmont man is facing multiple drug charges following his arrest over the weekend. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Garrett Dykstra, was taken into custody Sunday night, on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana. 

Dykstra also was charged with unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

FISK FALL FESTIVAL TO BE HELD ON SEPTEMBER 24TH 

The Fisk community will be coming together for the fall festival this month. 

The 2022 Fisk Fall Festival will begin at 9 am on Saturday, September 24th at the Fisk Park and Pavilion. 

There will be a silent auction, 50/50 drawing, carnival games, food, and a parade. 

For more information, contact Kristi Wilkerson at 573-718-3155.

Monday September 12, 2022

TEXAS MAN KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WRECK

A Texas man was killed in a rural Clay County wreck Friday morning.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 54 year old James Ramey, of Houston, Texas, was traveling on Highway 67 when his vehicle crossed the centerline and struck a trailer that was being hauled by a freightliner.

Officials say that Ramey was pronounced dead following the wreck. The driver of the freightliner was not injured. 

VANDALISM REPORTED ON WOLF CREEK TRAIL

Officials with Mark Twain National Forest say that vandals have destroyed property along the Wolf Creek Trail.

According to the US Forest Service, on the night of September 7th a vandal demolished signs that were donated and installed by the Poplar Bluff Trails Coalition.

Benches were also ruined that were installed by local aspiring Eagle Scouts from the Poplar Bluff area. 

Anyone who has information about the event is asked to contact the Mark Twain National Forest’s Patrol Captain Casey Hutsell at 573-341-7463. A reward of $500 is being offered.

WOMAN CLAIMS HUGE PRIZE FROM SCRATCHERS TICKET BOUGHT IN POPLAR BLUFF

A woman in Poplar Bluff called her husband recently in tears, but this was for a happy reason.

The woman had stopped at a gas station on Highway 53 in Poplar Bluff and purchased several lottery tickets. One of the tickets was a “Hot 7s” Scratchers ticket which was a grand prize winner worth $777,777.

The woman, whose name was not released, recalled calling her husband and crying while saying “This can’t be real.”

The woman said that she and her husband plan to invest the winnings. 

MANY MIGRATORY BIRD SEASONS ARE UNDERWAY IN MISSOURI 

Many migratory bird seasons are underway in Missouri and the Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding hunters to follow regulations and to always hunt safely.

According to the MDC, Dove season has started and runs through November 29th. Seasons for other migratory birds that are in progress include Teal which is through September 25th, Sora and Virginia rails which is through November 9th, and Snipe which is through December 16th.

The American Woodcock season runs from October 15th through November 28th.

For questions about hunting migratory birds, contact your local MDC office or go online to mdc.mo.gov. 

PAVEMENT CONSTRUCTION PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY ON ROUTE T IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route T in Butler, Stoddard and Wayne Counties will be reduced to one lane with an 11-foot width restriction beginning today as contractor crews add shoulders and overlay the roadway. 

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route 51 near Puxico to Route 60 near Poplar Bluff.

Weather permitting, work will be conducted from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily through Tuesday, November 1st.

CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR ROADWAY PROJECTS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Contracts have been awarded for various roadway projects in southeast Missouri.

During its regular meeting last week, The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded a 3.2 million dollar contract for pavement resurfacing on Route 67 from Route 160 in Butler County to the Arkansas state line.

A 7.1 million dollar contract was awarded for pavement resurfacing and adding shoulders on Route 25 from Route 62 to Route E in Dunklin County.

In the bootheel, a 2.4 million dollar contract was awarded for concrete rehabilitation on Route 412 from Route 25 to Interstate 55.

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

Friday, September 9, 2022

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE CHIEF SERVING FINAL DAY ON THE JOB

The Poplar Bluff Police Chief will be stepping down at the end of today.

Poplar Bluff Chief of Police Danny Whiteley is ending his term of over 22 years as the head of the Poplar Bluff Police Department.

Whiteley, who announced his retirement earlier this year, says that he owes his success to the staff of men and women Law Enforcement Professionals of the Poplar Bluff Police Department.

Deputy Police Chief Mike McClain will be serving as interim Police Chief until a successor can be chosen, which Poplar Bluff City Manager Matt Winters estimates will happen within the next 30 days. 

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI NATIVE ELIMINATED FROM WORLD 3D ARCHERY CHAMPIONSHIPS

A Southeast Missouri native has been knocked out of the 3D World Archery Championships.

Joshua Miller was participating in the Men’s Longbow competition at the Championships in Terni, Italy.

Miller advanced out of the qualifying round in 16th place out of a total of 50 archers.

Miller was then eliminated in the first round of the knockout tournament, losing 47-44 to the 21 seed Mikael Fogelby, of Sweden. 

ONE DEAD, TWO INJURED, IN CONNECTION TO WRECK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

A New Madrid woman has died in connection to a two vehicle wreck on Wednesday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred Wednesday evening when a vehicle failed to yield at the intersection of Interstate-55 and US Highway 61 and was struck in the driver's side.

The driver of the second vehicle, 44 year old Heather Polk, of New Madrid, was pronounced dead at the scene by New Madrid County Coroner George DeLisle.

The driver and an occupant in the first vehicle suffered serious injuries and were transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital. 

ROUTE W BRIDGE IN BUTLER COUNTY TO REOPEN THIS MONTH

A bridge in Butler County which has been closed since June is expected to be open soon.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, contractor crews have been working to replace the bridge on Route W, between County Road 525 and Ravenwood Lane near Poplar Bluff.

According to officials, the bridge is set to be opened for traffic on September 15th.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN SENTENCED ON TRAFFICKING AND FIREARM CHARGES

A Southeast Missouri man will spend two decades behind bars on gun and drug charges.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 41 year old David Rodgers was sentenced Thursday to 20 years in federal prison for firearm and methamphetamine-trafficking offenses.

A search warrant was executed at Rodgers home in August of 2020. During the search, law enforcement officials found a safe in Rodgers’ bedroom that contained over 800 grams of methamphetamine, several semi-automatic pistols and approximately $6000 in cash.

Rodgers admitted in his guilty plea earlier this year that he intended to sell the methamphetamine and that he possessed the firearms to facilitate his drug-trafficking

After serving his sentence, Rodgers will be placed on supervised release for a period of five years.

PATRIOT DAY REMEMBRANCE EVENT TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF

Area community members will be gathering in Poplar Bluff on Saturday.

A 9/11 Patriot Day Remembrance event, hosted by Marine Corps League, SSgt Eric Summers, Detachment #1473 of Poplar Bluff, will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 am on Saturday, September 10th at the American Legion Post #153 on Kanell Boulevard in Poplar Bluff.

There will be a 9/11 commemoration, remembrance walk, and cookout as a part of the event.

Organizers say that all veterans, first responders, and the entire Poplar Bluff community are welcome to join. 

SHRINE CLUB POKER RUN TO KICK OFF ON SATURDAY

The Three Rivers Shrine Club in Poplar Bluff will be holding a Poker Run this weekend.

Sign up will start at 9 am on Saturday at the Shrine Club on Kennedy Drive, with the ride beginning at 10 am.

The poker run will be for UTV’s and Open-Top Style Jeeps only. In addition, there will be attendance prizes, raffles, and an auction.

For more information, contact Dan St. Lawrence at 772-2085.

Thursday, September 8, 2022

MAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING PURSUIT IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A man was arrested in a Southeast Missouri cotton field following a pursuit earlier this week.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, on Tuesday, deputies assisted the Malden Police Department with a pursuit that ended when the suspect’s vehicle caught on fire north of Gideon.

The suspect, identified as Mark Parks, then fled from the vehicle. After a brief search, Parks was located crawling in an area cotton field. He was then taken into custody.

Officials say that Parks had felony warrants out of Dunklin County. 

FREE MEDICAL CLINIC TO BE OFFERED IN POPLAR BLUFF

A free medical clinic will be offered in Poplar Bluff this weekend.

Footsteps Medical Missions will be presenting the clinic from 8 am to 3 pm on Saturday, September 10th at the Black River Coliseum.

Services provided will include medical services, diabetic foot care, hair care, vision, cardiology, and more.

If you want to attend, you are encouraged to pre-register at FootstepsMedicalMissions.org. Walk-ins will also be welcome. 

CURRENT RIVER CLEANUP SET FOR NATIONAL DAY OF SERVICE

AmeriCorps Senior will be hosting a clean-up of Current River for the National Day of Service on September 10th.

The event will be from 10 am to 4 pm, spanning from Watercress Spring to Big Spring.

There will be food, music and prizes as a part of the event as well.

For more information, call 573-686-8624.

BRIDGE CLOSED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI FOLLOWING INSPECTION 

Officials have closed a bridge in Southeast Missouri after it underwent a routine inspection.

The Missouri Department of Transportation has closed a bridge on Route J in Dunklin County. The bridge is located between Route JJ and County Road 107, south of Glennonville. 

Officials say that the bridge will remain closed until further notice. No timetable was given for when the bridge could be reopened. 

GREAT CENTRAL U.S. SHAKEOUT SCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER

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

The drill is scheduled for October 20th 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.

For more information on how to register your organization to participate in the Great Central U.S. Shake-out go to ShakeOut.org. 

ROAD WORK SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Route D 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.

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route W to Route E near Catron.

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

Wednesday, September 7, 2022

MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO ALLEGED KIDNAPPING IN POPLAR BLUFF

A Poplar Bluff man is in custody in Tennessee following the report of an alleged kidnapping.

Captain David Sutton with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that early Monday morning, officers received a report that an adult female had been taken by force from her residence on Raulston Avenue. The suspect has been identified as 40 year old Chris Luecke.

Information provided to officers suggested that Luecke had taken the victim to East Ridge, Tennessee. Police officials contacted authorities in East Ridge, who were then able to rescue the victim and take Luecke into custody.

Luecke is being held in the Hamilton County Jail on a Hamilton County warrant for false imprisonment and a Butler County warrant for burglary 1st degree and kidnapping 1st degree, with no bond set.

Poplar Bluff Chief of Police Danny Whiteley tells us that his department has contacted the FBI to review the case for possible federal kidnapping charges.

GEORGIA MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Georgia man has died following a single vehicle wreck in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 61 year old William Chandler, of Winston, Georgia, was driving a freightliner on US Highway 60 when the vehicle ran off the side of the roadway and overturned.

The wreck occurred Monday afternoon near Van Buren.

Officials say that Chandler was pronounced dead by Carter County Coroner Joe Ben Chapman. 

CONSTRUCTION TO BEGIN TODAY TO REPLACE BLACK RIVER BRIDGE IN POPLAR BLUFF

Construction is scheduled to begin today to replace the westbound Business 60 and Pine Street bridge over the Black River and Union Pacific railroad in Poplar Bluff.

During construction, westbound traffic will be shifted to a head-to-head configuration on the eastbound bridge. The head-to-head configuration will allow one lane of traffic in each direction.

Riverview Drive and B Street will be closed during construction, and parking will not be allowed underneath the bridge along Riverview Drive.

Officials say that, weather permitting, construction is anticipated to be complete by July 15th, 2023.

RUN 4 THE ARTS SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER 10TH

The 7th annual Run 4 the Arts hosted by Three Rivers College is coming up this weekend.

The four-mile run or walk, along with a one-mile walk, will be held at 8 am on Saturday, September 10th at the College’s Poplar Bluff Campus. The course will begin and end in front of the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

All funds from the event will go to benefit scholarships for students studying the arts at Three Rivers College.

For more information, contact Three Rivers Director of Development Michelle Reynolds at 573-840-9077.

OVER 250 CRASHES REPORTED IN MISSOURI OVER LABOR DAY WEEKEND 

State officials say that there were six fatalities reported over the Labor Day holiday weekend.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, five people were killed in traffic crashes during the counting period, which began at 6 pm on Friday, September 2nd, and ended at 11:59 pm on Monday. There was also one boating fatality during the counting period.

There were a total of 276 traffic crashes, which resulted in 97 people injured. 113 people were also arrested for driving while impaired.

There were also seven boating crashes over the weekend, resulting in one fatality and three people injured. 

ROUTE A IN STODDARD COUNTY TO BE REDUCED FOR WEEK AND A HALF

Route A in Stoddard and New Madrid Counties will be reduced to one lane through the end of next week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located from Route E to Route 153.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Friday, September 16th.  

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

FISK MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

An area man was killed in a single vehicle wreck early Saturday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 75 year old Melvin Lewis, of Fisk, was driving on Highway 51, near Broseley, when his vehicle ran off the side of the roadway, struck an embankment, and overturned.

Officials say that Lewis was pronounced dead at the scene. 

TWO DEAD FOLLOWING CRASH ON INTERSTATE 55 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Two juveniles from Memphis have died following a wreck on Interstate 55 in New Madrid County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred on Friday when a vehicle failed to yield and pulled into the path of another vehicle near Marston.

Following the wreck, an 11 year old passenger in the first vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene. A 14 year old passenger was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. 

The driver of the first vehicle, and four other passengers were all transported to area hospitals for treatment. 

TREE FALLS ON VEHICLE IN BUTLER COUNTY, ONE INJURED

A Poplar Bluff man was transported to an area hospital over the weekend after a tree fell on his vehicle.

According to authorities, the incident happened early Saturday morning, on County Road 533, seven miles north of Poplar Bluff.

The man suffered moderate injuries and was taken by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

Information was not available on what caused the tree to fall. 

TWO WAPPAPELLO LAKE BEACHES CLOSE FOR THE SEASON

Two of the three public swimming beaches at Wappapello Lake have closed for the season.

The US Army Corps of Engineers have announced that the scheduled seasonal closure of Rockwood Point Beach and Redman Creek Beach is today.

The Peoples Creek Beach will remain open until September 26th.

Anyone who has questions is asked to contact the Wappapello Lake Management Office at 573-222-8562.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK NEAR DEXTER

Outer Road 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction beginning today as contractor crews perform pavement improvements.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the work zone is located from Route AD to Route 25 in the Dexter area. 

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. 

ROADWORK TO CAUSE DELAYS THIS WEEK ON NORTHBOUND INTERSTATE 55

Northbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 16-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform erosion work.

The section of roadway to be involved in the project is located between Exit 49 and Exit 52 near New Madrid. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Thursday.

Thursday, September 1, 2022

MAN DIES EN ROUTE TO HOSPITAL FOLLOWING ARREST IN KENNETT

A Kennett man has died after being taken into custody by Kennett Police.

According to the Kennett Police Department, officers were attempting to arrest 59 year old Derrick Harrell on Tuesday night when the man fled into a vacant residence.

Officials say that a canine was then used to bring Harrell into custody.

Officers contacted Emergency Medical Services who cleared Harrell to be transported to the hospital for treatment of a dog bite.

While en route to a hospital in Hayti, Harrell experienced a medical event and died.

The arrest is being reviewed by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. 

MULES FOOTBALL TEAM TO HOST VALLEY VIEW FOR HOME OPENER

The Poplar Bluff Mules football team is getting ready for their home opener on Friday Night.

The Mules will be looking to bounce back from last week’s loss as they host Valley View out of Jonesboro, Arkansas.

Poplar Bluff fell to Park Hills Central in week one, 29-7. Valley View is also looking for their first win of the season, losing last week 51-35 to Harding.

Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM will be providing live coverage of the game with the kick-off show beginning at 6:30 pm. KWOC is also providing video coverage at the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page and the River Radio Youtube page.  

VETERANS HONOR TOUR TO DEPART FOR WASHINGTON D.C. ON FRIDAY

Thirty area veterans will be departing Southeast Missouri Friday morning to go visit the nation’s capital.

The veterans will be going on a tour of Memorials in Washington D.C. as a part of the Veterans Honor Tour.

KWOC News spoke with Jerry Sneathern with the Honor Tour about the trip.

“We are the Veterans Honor Tour of Southeast Missouri and we take veterans to Washington DC to see all the monuments. It's a 3-day trip and we raise the money and it’s paid for, for the veterans. We will be sending off Friday morning from the First Baptist Church and we go to Neelyville High School, for a sendoff down there.”

Area residents are invited to help send off the veterans at 7 am Friday morning at First Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff. Following their stop in Neelyville, the veterans will travel to St. Louis for the trip to Washington D.C.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURIAN TRAVELS TO ITALY FOR WORLD ARCHERY CHAMPIONSHIP

A Southeast Missouri man has taken off for Italy to represent Team USA.

Joshua Miller, of Neelyville, is traveling to Terni, Italy for the 3D Archery World Championships.

Miller is one of three Americans participating in the men’s longbow competition. A total of 51 archers will be competing in the men’s longbow specialization.

The 3D Archery World Championships have been scheduled for September 4th through September 10th. 

HIGHWAY PATROL URGES SAFETY FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND

With Labor Day weekend upon us, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is urging everyone to be safe during the holiday weekend.

The Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. over the Labor Day holiday weekend.

Troopers will be patrolling Missouri’s roadways, enforcing Missouri’s speed limit, seat belt, and impaired driving laws, in addition to being available to assist motorists.

Last year, 11 people were killed and 458 were injured in Missouri over the Labor Day holiday weekend in 1,124 traffic crashes. Also, 109 people were arrested by the Highway Patrol for driving while intoxicated.

The Labor Day holiday is also a busy boating weekend. In 2021, there were nine boating crashes which included one fatality and four injuries.

PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENT PROJECT SCHEDULED TO START TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route FF in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction beginning today as contractor crews perform pavement improvements.  

The section of roadway is located between Route E and Route 114 near Essex. 

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Tuesday, September 6th from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.  

Wednesday, August 31, 2022

MAN FACING MULTIPLE WEAPON CHARGES OUT OF STODDARD COUNTY

A Bloomfield man is facing multiple weapon charges following his arrest in Stoddard County.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 54 year old Walter Stock was recently arrested on charges of domestic assault – 2nd degree, unlawful use of a weapon, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

On Sunday, a woman reported to deputies that her boyfriend had discharged a shotgun inside a residence and then pointed the gun at her after a heated argument.

Stock told the deputies that he and the victim had been in a heated argument and that he grabbed the shotgun and shot a wall in the kitchen area. He also told deputies that he did not point the shotgun at the victim.

Multiple firearms were seized, including three handguns, two rifles, and one shotgun.

Stock is being held at the Stoddard County Jail.   

NEW MEMBER CHOSEN FOR POPLAR BLUFF R-1 SCHOOL BOARD

The Poplar Bluff R-1 School Board will have a new member for the next few months.

Dr. Michael Price was chosen from a total of eight applicants during a school board meeting earlier this week. He will be taking over the seat that was left vacant by Alana Robertson.

Price had previously served two terms on the board as well as 12 years on the school foundation in addition to his work as a dentist.

Price will fill the seat through April of next year when a normal election for the spot will be conducted. 

FREE MEDICAL CLINIC TO BE OFFERED IN POPLAR BLUFF

A free medical clinic will be offered in Poplar Bluff next month.

Footsteps Medical Missions will be presenting the clinic from 8 am to 3 pm on Saturday, September 10th at the Black River Coliseum.

Services provided will include medical services, diabetic foot care, hair care, vision, cardiology, and more.

If you want to attend, you are encouraged to pre-register at FootstepsMedicalMissions.org. Walk-ins will also be welcome. 

MANAGED WATERFOWL RESERVATIONS TO OPEN TOMORROW

The Missouri Department of Conservation will be accepting reservations for managed waterfowl hunts beginning tomorrow.

MDC offers managed waterfowl hunting on more than a dozen conservation areas specially managed with a focus on wetlands. Hunters can apply for a reservation or participate in a daily morning drawing for opportunities to hunt at these areas. MDC also offers waterfowl hunting in other conservation areas.

The pre-season reservation period will run from September 1st to September 18th with the results being posted on October 1st.

Missouri residents and qualifying non-residents, such as students from out of state or members of the military stationed in Missouri, can apply online for a reservation to guarantee them an opportunity to hunt on a specific day in a specific area.

Residents and nonresidents can also arrive at a managed waterfowl hunting area the morning they wish to hunt and wait in line for the possibility of getting a hunting spot.

Applicants for waterfowl reservations must have their required permits to apply, and their Federal Duck Stamp to hunt.

For more information, or to apply, visit mdc.mo.gov. 

CONCRETE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS ON INTERSTATE 55

Northbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 14-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform concrete repairs.   

The section of Interstate 55 to be reduced is located from Mile Marker 13.6 to Mile Marker 16.  

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily through Friday. 

DRAINAGE REPAIRS CAUSE DELAYS IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Route W in New Madrid County is being reduced to one lane so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform drainage repairs. 

Officials say the work zone is located from Route AE to County Road 613 near Kewanee. 

The work zone will be in place 24 hours a day through Thursday. 

Tuesday, August 30, 2022

POPLAR BLUFF AND BUTLER COUNTY AMONG RECIPIENTS OF BLOCK GRANTS

The City of Poplar Bluff and Butler County will be receiving grant money to help with local projects.

The Missouri Department of Economic Development recently announced that Poplar Bluff will get $500,000 from a community block development grant to make improvements that will enable it to transmit and store storm water safely and efficiently, decreasing the severity of flood-related issues associated with Pike Creek.

Butler County was awarded over $142,000 to make street repairs to address ponding water, rutting, lack of ditches, and poor drainage.

Other area communities to receive grant funding include Bernie, Caruthersville, Greenville, Piedmont, and Senath. 

PATRIOT DAY REMEMBRANCE EVENT TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF

Area community members will be gathering in Poplar Bluff on September 10th.

A 9/11 Patriot Day Remembrance event will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 am on Saturday, September 10th at the American Legion Post #153 on Kanell Boulevard in Poplar Bluff.

There will be a 9/11 commemoration, remembrance walk, and cookout as a part of the event.

Organizers say that all veterans, first responders, and the entire Poplar Bluff community are welcome to join. 

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOST MEET THE RAIDERS EVENT

The Three Rivers College athletic season is fast approaching and area residents will have the opportunity to meet some of the players who will be representing the Raiders this year.

The college is hosting a “Meet the Raiders” event beginning at 6 pm on September 12th at the Libla Family Sports Complex.

The event will showcase the players and coaches for the Raiders basketball and baseball teams, the Lady Raiders basketball and softball teams, the rodeo team, the Esports team, and the cheer team.  

SENIOR HEALTH FAIR SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER IN POPLAR BLUFF

A health fair for area residents ages 50 and up will be held this fall in Poplar Bluff.

The free Senior Health Fair from the Butler County Community Resource Council and AmeriCorps Seniors, has been scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm on Tuesday, September 27th at the Twin Towers in Poplar Bluff.

There will be multiple services available, including health screenings, eyeglass adjustments, vaccinations, and more.

For more information, call 573-686-8624.

CREWS TO BE WORKING ON ROUTE MM NEAR MALDEN THIS WEEK

Route MM in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction this week as contractor crews perform pavement improvements.  

Missouri Department of Transportation officials tell KWOC News the work zone will be located between Route U and Route J near Malden. 

Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.  

BRIDGE CLOSED TODAY ON ROUTE 34 IN WAYNE COUNTY

A bridge was closed this morning in Wayne County.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the Route 34 bridge over St. Francis River in Wayne County will be closed through 5 a.m. tomorrow morning as work continues to rehabilitate the bridge.

The bridge is located between County Roads 310 and 312.

Officials say that the project to rehabilitate the bridge began in March. 

Monday, August 29, 2022

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED FOR STEALING AND PROPERTY DAMAGE

A Poplar Bluff man was arrested Thursday afternoon for multiple counts of property damage and stealing.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that Investigator Eddie Holloway received information that a suspect vehicle in numerous agricultural copper thefts had been spotted and was being followed by some area farmers.

The vehicle was then intercepted by Butler County Deputies on County Road 604.

The driver, identified as 37 year old Glen Yandell Jr., was questioned about recent thefts and property damage to several agricultural irrigation wells in the Qulin area.

Yandell admitted to stealing large amounts of copper from five irrigation wells and agreed to show investigator Holloway their location. A search of his vehicle also revealed tools used to get copper wire.

Yandell was taken into custody on three outstanding Butler County warrants. Additional charges have been requested for five counts of felony property damage and felony stealing.

He is being held in the Butler County Jail.

STODDARD COUNTY FAIR SET FOR LATE SEPTEMBER

The schedule has been announced for the 2022 Stoddard County Fair. 

The fair will kick-off with the parade in downtown Dexter on Tuesday, September 20th at 5:30 pm.

There will be multiple nights of entertainment and events including performances by Maggie Thorn and the Other Brothers Band. 

Other events include the livestock auction, demo derby, and rodeo.

For more information, including the full schedule, go to www.stoddardcountyfair.com. 

DATES ANNOUNCED FOR AG CONNECT 2023

The dates have been announced for Ag Connect 2023 in Poplar Bluff.

The Ag Industry conference will be held on Friday, January 20th and Saturday, January 21st at the Black River Coliseum.

Friday will feature a variety of workshops and vendors for the ag industry.

Saturday will have family activities, a dinner, and a question and answer session with legislators and industry leaders.

More information is available online at facebook.com/AgConnectPB. 

TWO FACING COCAINE AND METH CHARGES

Two people were arrested over the weekend in New Madrid County on multiple felony drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Hayden Dawson and 27 year old Janie Tindle, both of New Madrid, are facing felony charges of possession of cocaine and possession of methamphetamine following their arrests on Saturday.

Officials say that both are also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. 

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route 67 in Butler County will be reduced this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway to be involved in the repairs is located from Route MM to the state line. 

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

ROADSIDE WORK TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY NEAR HOLCOMB

Route 53 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform roadside work.  

This section of roadway is located from County Road 322 to County Road 332 near Holcomb.     

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

Friday, August 26, 2022

MULES FOOTBALL KICKS OFF REGULAR SEASON TONIGHT AT PARK HILLS

The Poplar Bluff Mules Football team is looking to get the 2022 football season off to a great start tonight.

The Mules will travel to Park Hills Central tonight to take on the Rebels, with kickoff set for 7 pm. It will be the first game for each team this season.

The Mules went 6-3 in the regular season last year before falling to Seckman in the District Semi-Finals. The Park Hills Central Rebels finished the 2021 campaign with a 10-2 record, with their season coming to an end in the Class 3 State Quarterfinals.

Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM will be providing live coverage of the game tonight with the kick-off show beginning at 6:30 pm. KWOC is also providing video coverage at the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page and the River Radio Youtube page.  

DEPARTING POPLAR BLUFF POLICE CHIEF HONORED AT NEW PBPD FACILITY

A ceremony was held Thursday morning at the new Poplar Bluff Police Department facility to honor the departing Police Chief.

Numerous area leaders including United States Representative Jason Smith and Missouri Secretary of State John Ashcroft gathered at the facility site for a tour of the new building and to honor Danny Whiteley, who announced his retirement earlier this year.

Congressman Smith presented Whiteley a proclamation from the House of Representatives thanking him for his decades of outstanding service and for selflessly protecting Missouri.

Whiteley’s last day as Poplar Bluff Police Chief is set for September 9th. 

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A TWO VEHICLE WRECK IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Poplar Bluff woman was flown from the scene of a two vehicle wreck Wednesday in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred shortly before 4 pm when a vehicle driven by a 16 year old girl from Poplar Bluff pulled into the path of another vehicle on Route B.

The driver of the second vehicle, 67 year old Sheryl McElhaney was flown to a St. Louis hospital with serious injuries.

The teenager also suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. 

8TH ANNUAL RIDE FOR A CURE TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND

The 8th Annual Ride for a Cure Dice Run in memory of Larry Maronay has been scheduled for this weekend.

Registration for the event will begin at 10 am on August 27th at the Dexter Elks Lodge, with the ride beginning at 11 am. The entry fee is $20 per bike with a meal included at the end of the ride.

All proceeds will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

For more information, call Brian Jones at 573-421-1771.

MAN PLEADS GUILTY IN CONNECTION TO AGGRAVATED-ROBBERY INVESTIGATION IN CORNING

A man is facing eight years behind bars in connection to a robbery.

According to Prosecuting Attorney Keith Chrestman, 33 year old Odell Lewis has pleaded guilty in connection to an aggravated-robbery investigation in Corning.

Last December, police contacted Lewis as a part of the investigation and found a pistol under a passenger seat in Lewis’s vehicle. The victim identified the pistol as the one used in the robbery.

On Tuesday, Lewis was sentenced to eight years imprisonment.

Chrestman added that Lewis will be ineligible for parole. 

PURSUIT ENDS IN BUTLER COUNTY CORNFIELD

A pursuit early Thursday morning in Butler County came to an end in an area cornfield.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that he and his deputies were conducting patrols in southern Butler County early Thursday morning due to a rash of recent copper thefts.

Shortly after 2 am, a pickup truck attempted to flee from a traffic stop on Highway 53 and a lengthy pursuit ensued.

The pursuit came to an end after the suspect drove into a cornfield and then attempted to flee on foot. Dobbs says he was then taken into custody without incident.

A search of the vehicle resulted in officials finding a large quantity of copper wire that is believed to have been stolen from farms in the area.

Dobbs says that suspect has been identified as 44 year old Michael Hon, of Poplar Bluff.

Hon is currently being held on an outstanding felony warrant. Dobbs added that charges are being requested for felony resisting arrest by fleeing, property damage, and stealing.

Thursday, August 25, 2022

SEARCH UNDERWAY FOR MAN IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING OF PATROL VEHICLE

Authorities in Sikeston are asking for the public’s assistance in locating a wanted subject.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, a search is underway for 20 year old Dominic Metzger.

Officials say that at 1 am on Saturday, officers with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety were conducting a vehicle stop when they heard gun shots from the area of Westgate and Compress Road. Another officer advised that his patrol vehicle was struck by a bullet. 

Dispatchers then received a 911 call from an individual stating that they were shot at by Metzger.

Metzger is described as a white male, approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing 150 pounds, with light brown shaggy hair. He might possibly have facial hair and a mustache.

He has been charged with assault 1st on a special victim – law enforcement officer, assault 1st, unlawful use of weapon, armed criminal action, and property damage 1st. 

The incident is still under investigation and Metzger is being considered armed and dangerous. If you have any information on his whereabouts, contact your local law enforcement agency or the Sikeston DPS at 573-471-4711.

THREE SCHOOLS SET TO START TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

School opening week in Southeast Missouri will be wrapping up today with at least three more schools welcoming back students.

Ripley County R-3, Charleston R-1, and Marquand Zion R-6 are all beginning their school years today.

With most schools having started, motorists are again reminded to be mindful of increased traffic on roadways as well as an increase in student drivers. 

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CITY TO USE $500,000 GRANT TO PURCHASE NEW EQUIPMENT

A Southeast Missouri city will use grant money to purchase new equipment.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, the city of Malden will use a $500,000 Community Facility Disaster Grant to assist with the purchase of a fire vehicle, street sweeper, and eight new mowers.

Officials say the equipment will help the city continue to provide essential community services to the citizens of Malden.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN CONVICTED ON VIDEO VOYEURISM CHARGE

A Northeast Arkansas man has been convicted on a video voyeurism charge.

According to the Deputy State Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Watts, 62 year old Robert Waddell, of Paragould, was found guilty of the charge by a Greene County jury on Tuesday.

In February, a home healthcare worker reported to Paragould police that they had found a video camera in their patent’s bathroom. During an interview with police, Waddell admitted that he had videoed the patient in the bathroom without their consent.

Following the conviction, Waddell was sentenced to 120 days in county jail followed by five years of supervised probation. Waddell must also register as a sex offender. 

CREWS TO WORK ON ROUTE F IN CARTER COUNTY OVER THE NEXT WEEK 

Missouri Department of Transportation crews will be making driving surface improvements on Route F in Carter County over the next week.

The section of roadway involved in the improvements is located from Route C to the end of state maintenance. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Thursday, September 1st. 

REPAIRS CAUSE DELAYS THIS MORNING IN DOWNTOWN DONIPHAN

A lane in downtown Doniphan is closed this morning for repairs. 

According to the Doniphan Police Department, the city closed the westbound lane of Washington Street at the intersection of State Street in the downtown business district this morning.

Motorists are being encouraged to choose alternate routes or use caution when entering and exiting the work zone. 

Wednesday, August 24, 2022

AT LEAST 11 MORE SCHOOLS STARTING SCHOOL YEAR TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Students in at least 11 more Southeast Missouri school districts will be starting their classes today as school opening week continues.

Neelyville will be starting their school year today, as will Bloomfield, Ripley County R-4, Puxico, and Van Buren.

School Opening week will wrap up for the most part on Thursday, as Charleston, Ripley County R-3, and Marquand Zion all welcome back students. 

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL DISTRICT RECEIVES GRANT MONEY TO EXPAND LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

The Poplar Bluff R-1 School District has received multiple grants over the last few months to expand learning opportunities in the school district.

According to school officials, Poplar Bluff R-I has been awarded over $55,000 to help expand Project Lead the Way’s premier science, technology, engineering, and math curriculum to its elementary schools.

The matching grant, financed by the national STEM provider in partnership with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, has been used toward certifying 60 teachers, in first through third grades this summer.

Other grant money has gone towards the Technical Career Center.

A $500,000 Community Development Block Grant was approved by the Missouri Department of Economic Development last month to go toward a state-of-the-art Culinary Arts Center to be constructed on the TCC campus.

Another $267,000 was awarded in May for ancillary expenses through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Area Career Center Construction Project fund, along with about $104,000 that went toward equipment last year through matching enhancement grants. 

FIRE DOES EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO RESTAURANT IN DONIPHAN

Fire crews responded to a fire Tuesday morning at a long running  Doniphan area restaurant.

According to the Doniphan Fire Department, crews were paged to Patsy’s Journeyman Restaurant at approximately 1:30 am Tuesday morning.

The fire did extensive damage to the upstairs portion of the building which contained a bar. The downstairs restaurant received heavy smoke and water damage.

An investigation into a cause for the fire is ongoing and no one was injured in the incident. 

ONE WEEK LEFT TO SUBMIT FEEDBACK TO THE MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL 

Missouri residents have one week left to submit their feedback on how the Missouri State Highway Patrol is conducting business.

Colonel Eric Olson, superintendent of the Highway Patrol, is inviting the public to take part in a public opinion survey regarding safety and security, officers' attitudes and competency, overall agency performance, and concerns regarding crime and social issues.

The survey is available on the Highway Patrol’s website at StatePatrol.dps.mo.gov.

Olson says it will be available through the end of the month. 

OVER MONTH LONG PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route D in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane for over a month as contractor crews perform pavement repairs. 

The work zone will be located from Route 25 to Route 153 near Dexter.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, September 30th from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day.  

DRIVING SURFACE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT UNDERWAY IN CARTER AND RIPLEY COUNTIES

Missouri Department of Transportation crews are making driving surface improvements on Route C in Carter and Ripley County.  

According to officials, the project is located from U.S Highway 60 to U.S. Highway 160. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Thursday, September 1st. During the project, the road will be open to local traffic only.  

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

ONE KILLED, THREE INJURED, IN WEEKEND WRECK

One person has died from injuries he received in a weekend wreck in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 54 year old Edward Workman, of Paragould, was driving on US Highway 49 when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and struck a tree. The vehicle then turned on its side and came to rest partially submerged in water.

Officials say that Workman was killed in the wreck, while three others in the vehicle were injured.

The passengers were all transported to area hospitals. 

AT LEAST 16 MORE SCHOOLS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI TO BEGIN SCHOOL YEAR TODAY

School opening week in Southeast Missouri continues today with at least 16 more schools welcoming back students.

The school year will begin today for kids in the Twin Rivers, Dexter, Sikeston, Malden, and Clearwater school districts, among others.

At least 11 more schools will start on Wednesday, including Neelyville, Puxico, Ripley County R-4, and Bloomfield.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR CALLS SPECIAL SESSION TO CONSIDER TAX CUTS

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has called for a special session of the state general assembly to consider income tax cuts and extend agriculture tax credit programs. 

The governor released his proposal Monday which includes reducing the top individual income tax rate from 5.3 to 4.8 percent, increasing the standard deduction for individuals by $2,000 and by $4,000 for married joint filers; and eliminating the bottom income tax bracket.

Governor Parson's special session call also includes the extension and creation of several agriculture tax credit programs intended to help develop key areas of Missouri's agricultural industry. The sunset for each program will be for a minimum of six years. 

The General Assembly will meet in Jefferson City at noon on September 6th to begin consideration of Governor Parson's proposed legislation.

IMPAIRED DRIVING ENFORCEMENT CAMPAIGN UNDERWAY IN MISSOURI AND ARKANSAS

Law enforcement agencies are conducting a new campaign to keep impaired drivers off the roadways.

Law enforcement agencies across Missouri and Arkansas are participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement period through September 5th.

Officials say that highway fatalities continue to be on the rise with a focus on four risky behaviors: not wearing a seat belt, cellphone use while driving, excessive speeds, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, during the 2020 Labor Day holiday period, there were 530 crash fatalities nationwide.

Forty-six percent of those fatalities involved drivers who had been drinking. More than one-third of the fatalities involved drivers who were drunk, and one-fourth involved drivers who were driving with a BAC almost twice the legal limit.

US ROUTE 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

U.S. Route 67 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction this week as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.  

According to the officials, the section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route MM to Route 142 near Neelyville.     

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday.

REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY ON INTERSTATE 55

Southbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction for the rest of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform concrete repairs.   

Officials say the work zone will be in place from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. each day through Friday. 

The section of Southbound Interstate 55 to be affected is located from mile marker 6.5 to mile marker 9. 

Monday, August 22, 2022

POPLAR BLUFF SUPERINTENDENT ANNOUNCES RESIGNATION 

The Poplar Bluff R-1 Superintendent will be stepping down.

Dr. Scott Dill tells KWOC News that he submitted his resignation to the School Board Thursday night.

Dill has served as Poplar Bluff superintendent for seven years and says that he is grateful for the opportunities that have been provided to him and he is looking forward to new challenges in the future.

While reflecting on his decades of service in education, Dill added that Poplar Bluff will always be first and foremost on his mind.

Dill’s resignation will go into effect at the end of the current school year.

Poplar Bluff R-1 School Board President John Scott tells KWOC News that he is thankful for the years of service that Dr. Dill provided and we hate to see him go. 

Scott added that the search for a new superintendent will begin in the coming months.

MANY SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SCHOOLS TO RETURN TO CLASS TODAY

Numerous schools around Southeast Missouri are set to return to classes today. 

At least 27 area school districts will hold their first day of school today, including Poplar Bluff, Bernie, Campbell, Clarkton, Doniphan, East Carter County, Greenville, Kennett, Naylor, and Senath-Hornersville.  

More area school districts will begin classes on Tuesday, including Twin Rivers, Dexter, Clearwater, Sikeston, and Malden.

Today’s Talk KWOC will be at the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center and Middle School’s this morning putting together a back to school video that will debut on the KWOC Facebook page this afternoon. 

MOTORISTS ASKED TO WATCH FOR STUDENTS ON THE ROADWAYS

With students returning to school in Southeast Missouri this week, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to watch for students. 

Drivers should expect a change in traffic patterns ─ school buses and parents taking their children to school and many young drivers will join other motorists on the road and affect the morning and afternoon commute. Also expect an increase in pedestrian and bicycle traffic. 

Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about riding a bus, walking, or driving to school in a safe manner. If they ride a bike, please make sure they wear a helmet and follow traffic laws.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI TEACHER NAMED SEMI-FINALIST FOR MISSOURI TEACHER OF THE YEAR

A high school teacher in Southeast Missouri has been named a semifinalist for 2023 Missouri Teacher of the Year.

According to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Richland High School American History teacher Paul Arnold was one of 17 semi-finalists chosen for the award, which spotlights the positive impact excellent teachers have on their students.

The finalists will be announced on Thursday, September 1st. 

IMPAIRED DRIVING ENFORCEMENT CAMPAIGN UNDERWAY IN MISSOURI AND ARKANSAS

Law enforcement agencies are conducting a new campaign to keep impaired drivers off the roadways.

Law enforcement agencies across Missouri and Arkansas will participate in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement period through September 5th.

Officials say that highway fatalities continue to be on the rise with a focus on four risky behaviors: not wearing a seat belt, cellphone use while driving, excessive speeds, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, during the 2020 Labor Day holiday period, there were 530 crash fatalities nationwide.

Forty-six percent of those fatalities involved drivers who had been drinking. More than one-third of the fatalities involved drivers who were drunk, and one-fourth involved drivers who were driving with a BAC almost twice the legal limit.

FIRST PHASE OF FUTURE I-57 PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

The first phase of the U.S. Route 67/Future I-57 project will begin today in Butler County. Missouri Department of Transportation officials say that this includes upgrading the Route 160/158 interchange south of Poplar Bluff.

The interchange will be reconfigured with two roundabouts in place of the current loop ramps in the northwest and southeast quadrants.

Work on the project is set to begin today, with completion anticipated by November 2023.

Initially, work will consist of pipe extensions and earthwork for the new merge ramps. During this stage of construction, Route 160/158 and Route 67 will be minimally impacted.

Additional information detailing impacts to traffic will be released prior to the start of paving, which is anticipated to begin in 2023. 

MODOT CREWS TO BE WORKING ON MULTIPLE ROADS TODAY IN RIPLEY COUNTY

Missouri Department of Transportation crews will be making driving surface improvements today on Routes P and DD in Ripley County.  

Officials say the section of roadways to be affected is located from Route 142 to the end of state maintenance. 

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. While work is under way, the routes will be open to local traffic only.  

Poplar Bluff Superintendent Announces Resignation

The Poplar Bluff R-1 Superintendent will be stepping down.

Dr. Scott Dill tells KWOC News that he submitted his resignation to the School Board Thursday night.

Dill has served as Poplar Bluff superintendent for seven years and says that he is grateful for the opportunities that have been provided to him and he is looking forward to new challenges in the future.

While reflecting on his decades of service in education, Dill added that Poplar Bluff will always be first and foremost on his mind.

Dill’s resignation will go into effect at the end of the current school year.

Poplar Bluff R-1 School Board President John Scott tells KWOC News that he is thankful for the years of service that Dr. Dill provided and we hate to see him go.

Scott added that the search for a new superintendent will begin in the coming months.

Friday, August 19, 2022

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE TO HOST PREVIEW OF NEW DEPARTMENT FACILITY

The new Poplar Bluff Police Department facility is almost finished and members of the public will have a chance to see the facility this weekend.

The PBPD is hosting a preview of the facility from 11 am to 5 pm on Saturday, August 20th.

The facility is located at 911 North Shelby Road.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Danny Whiteley tells us that local and state leaders will also be in attendance.

For those who can’t make it, Today’s Talk KWOC will be broadcasting live from the new facility on Facebook and Youtube beginning Saturday morning at 9:30 am along with Deputy Chief Mike McClain. 

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FOOTBALL JAMBOREE TONIGHT IN DEXTER 

We are a week away from the official start of the high school football season in Southeast Missouri which means it is time for the annual jamboree.

The Poplar Bluff Mules will be traveling east this year for the Dexter Jamboree. In addition to Dexter, they will also be joined by the Fredericktown Blackcats and the Caruthersville Tigers. 

The kick off is scheduled for 6 pm tonight and every Poplar Bluff snap will be carried live on Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM as well as on the KWOC Facebook page and River Radio Youtube page starting at 5:45 pm.

THREE YEAR OLD CHILD DIES FROM INJURIES RECEIVED IN A HOME EXPLOSION

Updating a story we have been following for you this week, another death has been reported from a home explosion in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office, a three year old girl died Thursday from injuries she received in an explosion on Monday in Wyatt.

The child’s father, Corey Coleman, had previously succumbed to injuries sustained in the house explosion on Monday.

The child’s mother, whose name is not being released at this time, and a six month old sibling are still in critical condition.

The Sheriff’s Department says that the other victims are in stable condition and still undergoing medical treatment in various midwest hospitals.

DUCK BLIND DRAWING AND REGISTRATION TO BE HELD THIS WEEK

The annual duck blind drawing will be held this weekend at Wappapello Lake.

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers the drawing and registration will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 20th, at the Bill Emerson Memorial Visitors Center.

The registration fee is $15 and applicants must bring cash, a personal check, or money order.

Permitted duck blinds may be placed on the lake after Labor Day and must be removed from the lake, or transferred to a permitted storage cove, within two weeks of the closure of the zoned duck season.

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

NEELYVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT OPEN HOUSE TO BE HELD NEXT WEEK

The Neelyville School District will be holding orientation and open house events next week before the beginning of the school year.

According to school officials, Kindergarten Orientation has been scheduled for 6 pm on August 22nd.

The open houses for all other grade levels will begin at 6 pm on August 23rd. 

ALMOST MONTH LONG PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY IN CARTER COUNTY

U.S. Route 60 in Carter County will be reduced with a 12-foot width restriction for almost a month as Contractor crews perform pavement repairs. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, crews will work in various locations along eastbound and westbound Route 60 throughout Carter County as a part of this project.  

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Thursday, September 15th.  

Thursday, August 18, 2022

REMAINS OF WORLD WAR TWO SAILOR FROM SOUTHEAST MISSOURI HAS BEEN ACCOUNTED FOR

The remains of a sailor from Southeast Missouri who had been killed in World War Two has been accounted for.

According to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, Navy Fireman 2nd Class Edward E. Casinger, 21, of Senath, Missouri, was killed during World War II when the battleship he was assigned to was attacked at Pearl Harbor.

The December 7th, 1941 attack on the USS Oklahoma resulted in the deaths of 429 crewmen, including Casinger.

From December 1941 to June 1944, Navy personnel recovered the remains of the deceased crew. By September 1947, laboratory staff was only able to confirm the identifications of 35 men from the USS Oklahoma.

In October 1949, a military board classified those who could not be identified as non-recoverable, including Casinger.

Between June and November 2015, personnel exhumed the USS Oklahoma Unknowns for analysis and were able to identify Casinger.

He was accounted for on October 1st, 2021.

Casinger will be buried on November 19th at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.

HOXIE MAN ONE OF TWO PEOPLE KILLED IN FOUR VEHIVLE CRASH

A Hoxie man is one of two people that were killed in a four vehicle wreck in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the crash occurred Tuesday morning on US Highway 63 when a vehicle driven by 30 year old Kyle Simmons, of Hoxie, crossed the center line and struck two vehicles in the opposite lane.

Simmons vehicle was then hit from behind by another vehicle.

Simmons, along with 30 year old Anna Swearinger, of Rome, Georgia, were killed in the wreck.

Two other people were injured and taken to area hospitals. 

ONE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WRECK INVOLVING A FREIGHTLINER

One person was injured in a wreck involving a freightliner Wednesday morning near Matthews.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Jennifer Diamond, of Sikeston, was driving on US Highway 61 when her vehicle struck the back of a freightliner.

Diamond suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

No injuries were listed for the driver of the freightliner. 

MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD HAS REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS BEFORE THE SCHOOL YEAR STARTS

The new school year is coming up in Southeast Missouri and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is reminding parents to make sure that their children have the required immunizations.

Children attending kindergarten through 12th grade are required to have the following immunizations or booster shots: DtaP, IPV, Hepatitis B, MMR, and Varicella.

8th through 12th grade students are also required to have the Tdap and MCV immunizations.

For more information you can go online to www.health.mo.gov/immunizations or contact your local public health agency.

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.

MODOT CREWS TO BE WORKING ON ROUTE N IN STODDARD COUNTY THROUGH SEPTEMBER

Contractor crews for the Missouri Department of Transportation are making improvements to Route N in Stoddard County. 

According to officials, the work zone is located from Route 91 at Bell City to Route 60.

Milling is taking place this week, which is causing the roadway to be reduced to one lane.

Paving operations will begin on Monday, August 22nd. During this time, motorists should anticipate closures along 1-mile sections of the route.

Completion is anticipated by Saturday, October 1st, weather permitting.

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

POPLAR BLUFF MAN IN CUSTODY ON FLEEING AND STEALING CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man is in custody in Stoddard County on multiple charges.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 46 year old Jeffery Gilbreath was arrested Monday on charges of receiving stolen property, stealing - $750 or more, and resisting arrest, detention, or stop by fleeing.

According to a probable cause affidavit, Gilbreath led authorities on a chase from Stoddard County to Butler County with speeds reaching over 100 miles per hour.

Gilbreath was apprehended after abandoning the vehicle, which had reportedly been stolen out of Poplar Bluff, near Butler County Road 630.

He also admitted to stealing items from a property in Stoddard County.

Gilbreath is being held in the Stoddard County Jail on a $35,000 cash only bond. He is scheduled to appear in court Thursday morning. 

POCAHONTAS AND HOXIE AMONG SCHOOLS BEGINNING CLASSES TODAY

At least two more schools in Northeast Arkansas will be starting their school year today.

The Pocahontas and Hoxie School Districts are both set to begin classes this morning.

Most schools in Southeast Missouri will be welcoming kids back beginning next week, with Monday seeing at least 27 schools opening their doors, including Poplar Bluff, Doniphan, and Kennett. 

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI HOUSE EXPLOSION RULED AN ACCIDENT

Updating a story we brought to you earlier this week, an explosion that resulted in one death and multiple injuries in Southeast Missouri has been ruled an accident for now.

According to the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office, investigators have determined that the cause of a residential explosion in Wyatt was from propane gas that filled the residence.

The leak has been narrowed down to the gas cook stove or a gas water heater. It is unknown at this time what the ignition source was that ignited the gas, but officials say that the incident is not drug related nor is any foul play suspected.

The victims are in different hospitals and burn units across the mid-west. Two of the nine victims are in critical condition, while the other seven are in stable condition.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Officials are reminding area residents that if you smell gas in your home, leave immediately and call 911 to report the incident. Do not use your cell phone or landline phone inside the residence.

OPEN HOUSES TO BE HELD THIS WEEK IN THE TWIN RIVERS SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Twin Rivers School District will be holding multiple open houses tomorrow.

According to school officials, the back to school open houses have been scheduled for 5:30 to 7:30 pm on Thursday, August 18th at both the Fisk and Qulin campuses.

There will not be an open house held for the High School in Broseley. 

WAPPAPELLO WOMAN RECEIVES SERIOUS INJURIES IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Wappapello woman was seriously injured in a single vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Wayne County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the vehicle was traveling on Highway 34, near Silva, when it ran off the left side of the roadway and struck a tree.

A passenger in the vehicle, identified as 37 year old Ashli Werner, of Wappapello, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

The driver, 30 year old David Gurney, of Poplar Bluff, was moderately injured and was also taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital. 

ROAD WORK UNDERWAY ON INTERSTATE 55 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Northbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County is being reduced to one lane with a 14-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement work. 

According to officials, the section of roadway affected is located from Exit 49 to Exit 52.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Thursday. 

Tuesday, August 16, 2022

OVER $280,000 RAISED DURING ST. JUDE VIP BANQUET

Hundreds of people packed the Black River Coliseum Friday night to raise money for the kids at St. Jude.

Miranda Fickert with Poplar Bluff Heroes tells us that over $280,000 was raised for St. Jude Children’s Research hospital during the 7th Annual St. Jude VIP Banquet.

Fickert says that this is the highest amount that they have ever raised.

The banquet featured a speech from cancer survivor and St. Jude patient Dustin Cook, along with auctions, raffles, and other activities.

Fickert added that Poplar Bluff Heroes isn’t done this year raising money for St. Jude. Designer Handbag Bingo has been scheduled for November 11th.

Fickert says that they are planning on passing the $300,000 mark. 

PRELIMINARY INVESTIGATION SAYS THAT HOUSE EXPLOSION IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI WAS CAUSED BY GAS LEAK

One person is dead following a house explosion in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office, the explosion occurred at a home in Wyatt Monday morning at approximately 7 am.

A total of 10 victims were located at the scene. Age ranges from 6 months to mid-twenties. All the victims were transported to medical facilities for medical treatment. All the injuries range from serious to life-threatening.

Officials say that a male in his twenties later died at an area hospital. His name was not released.

A preliminary investigation revealed that the cause of the explosion was a gas leak in the home. It is not determined yet where the gas leak was coming from.

The Missouri State Fire Marshal Service, the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office, and the Gas Commission investigation unit are looking into the exact cause of the explosion.

Numerous area agencies responded to the scene for this incident. 

POPLAR BLUFF FIRE DEPARTMENT RESPONDS TO A FIRE EARLY MONDAY MORNING

Poplar Bluff fire crews were dispatched to an apartment fire early Monday morning.

According to the Poplar Bluff Fire Department, the fire was located at a home containing two apartment units on North 9th street.

The building was evacuated and no injuries were reported.  

Officials say that the fire originated from a vacant apartment and the cause is under investigation. 

ONE SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE WRECK NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

A Rector man was injured in a motorcycle wreck Saturday night.

According to authorities, 18 year old Carter Crabtree was riding the motorcycle on the West Outer Road, two miles south of Poplar Bluff, when the vehicle ran off the roadway, struck a cable barrier, and overturned.

Crabtree was seriously injured in the wreck and transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. 

$100,000 SCRATCHERS TICKET SOLD AT POPLAR BLUFF CONVENIENCE STORE

A top prize of $100,000 has been claimed from a lottery scratcher’s ticket in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Missouri Lottery, one of five $100,000 top prizes offered on the “Fistful of $500” Scratchers game was claimed by a player who uncovered the prize on a ticket sold at Rick’s 66, in Poplar Bluff.

The prize was later claimed at the St. Louis Lottery office on July 28th.

The identity of the winner was not released. 

BROSELEY MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

An area man was taken into custody over the weekend on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 48 year old Stanley Vest, of Broseley, was arrested late Saturday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine along with a charge of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Vest also reportedly had a warrant out of Carter County for possession of a controlled substance.

Following the arrest, Vest was transported to the Butler County Jail.