Thursday, September 29, 2022

DRY CONDITIONS INCREASE FIRE RISK IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Multiple communities are being asked to not burn anything due to an increased danger of fires.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, low relative humidity, dry fuels, and northeast winds will result in an elevated fire danger over the area each afternoon through Saturday.

Weather officials say that outdoor burning is being strongly discouraged.

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller has announced that his county will be under a burn ban until further notice.  

GAS TRUCK EXPLODES IN STODDARD COUNTY

Crews were at the scene of an explosion Wednesday afternoon at a business in Stoddard County.

According to authorities, a gas truck exploded at C-Mart in Bloomfield. One person suffered minor injuries in the explosion.

The Missouri Department of Transportation reported that Route 25 in Bloomfield was closed following the explosion, but reopened a short time later.

STODDARD COUNTY HEALTH CENTER HOSTING HEALTH FAIR TODAY

The Stoddard County Health Center will be sponsoring a Community Health and Resource Fair today in Dexter.

Officials say that the fair will begin this morning at the Dexter Parks and Rec Gym on Fairground Drive. The event is for people of all ages to build awareness of health related issues and organizations available in Stoddard County.

There will be health care screenings, services and information, all available free of charge. 

The fair will be open today from 9 am to 2 pm. 

MAN CHARGED WITH AGGRAVATED ASSAULT IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A man has been taken into custody in Northeast Arkansas on an assault charge.

According to authorities, 30 year old Jamal Bender, of Paragould was arrested Tuesday after a report of shots being fired. Witnesses allege that Bender had shot at another person.

Bender was booked into Greene County Detention Center on a charge of aggravated assault.

His bond was set at $10,000. 

TURKEY HUNTERS ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT FEATHERS

Missouri turkey hunters are being encouraged to save and submit feathers from birds they harvest this fall.

Officials with the Missouri Department of Conservation tell KWOC News that the feathers will be used for a research project that will improve their ability to estimate turkey abundance across Missouri.

Hunters who successfully harvest a turkey during either the Archery Deer and Turkey Season or Fall Firearms Turkey Season can voluntarily submit feathers from their turkey at no cost.

Interested hunters are asked to retain a wing and three to five feathers from the breast after Telechecking their turkey. They will then be mailed a feather submission packet, including a postage-paid return envelope to submit feathers at no cost.

For more information, go online to mdc.mo.gov. 

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TO PERFORM DURING SENIOR SHOWCASE

Seniors at Poplar Bluff High School will be taking the stage this weekend.

The Poplar Bluff High School Drama Club will present the Class of 2023 ‘Senior Showcase’ at 7 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday at the Kay Porter Theater.

School officials say that the production will feature short skits written and/or directed by seniors, with actors from the High School.

The doors will open 30 minutes before each performance and tickets will be available for five dollars. 

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

PARAGOULD MAN ARRESTED ON TWO CHARGES OF RAPE

A Paragould man is in custody on rape charges in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Paragould Police Department, two separate women reported that they had been sexually assaulted while getting a massage at a local message parlor. Both of the women identified 73 year old Phillip Brinkley as the person who assaulted them.

One of the victim’s reported that the assault occurred in 2012, while the other said their assault happened in 2020.

Brinkley was taken into custody and charged with two counts of felony rape.

Brinkley was arrested earlier this month after a female victim reported that he had assaulted her during a message. While being interviewed by police, Brinkley reportedly gave self-incriminating statements.

Brinkley has been booked into the Greene County Jail. 

ENTRIES NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR RIVER RADIO LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE

Parade lights will be shining bright in Downtown Poplar Bluff this December for the 2022 River Radio Lighted Christmas Parade.

Entries are now being accepted for the parade, which is scheduled for 6 pm on Friday, December 2nd. Entry forms are available on our Facebook page and website. The deadline for entries is November 25th.

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

Trophies will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places. For more information, call 573-785-0881.

DONIPHAN CITY WIDE YARD SALE SET FOR SATURDAY

Saturday is the day to find lots of sales in Doniphan.

The Doniphan City Wide Yard Sale will this Saturday from 8 am to 4 pm.

Organizers say there will be numerous yard sales, food vendors, and other attractions as a part of the event.

Tonight, “Pickin on the Square” will finish the day with music, food, and entertainment at the Courthouse Circle in Doniphan. 

WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED AFTER HITTING FREIGHTLINER NEAR DEXTER

A Harviell woman was seriously injured in a two vehicle wreck Tuesday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred when a vehicle, driven by 31 year old Sara Lee, struck the rear of a freightliner on US Highway 60, near Dexter.

Following the wreck, Lee was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital with serious injuries. No injuries were listed for the driver of the freightliner. 

POPLAR BLUFF JUNIOR HIGH RECEIVES GRANT FOR MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

Grant money will go to improving the mental health of teachers and students at Poplar Bluff Junior High.

According to school officials, gifted teacher Hilary Taylor has been awarded $3,870 through the Louis L. and Julia Dorothy Coover Charitable Foundation to go toward mental health consultation for students and teachers at Poplar Bluff Junior High.

Taylor says she plans to bring in mental health professionals for teachers during collaboration day, and to arrange for consultants to speak with students in groups or one-on-one during academic lab, on top of the school’s guidance counselors and FCC Behavioral Health partners already in place.

ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY NEAR PORTAGEVILLE FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT

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

According to officials, the section of Route YY to be closed is located from Route T to County Road 375 near Portageville. 

Work is scheduled to take place from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.   

Tuesday, September 27, 2022

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE CHAMPIONSHIP RODEO SET FOR OCTOBER

Three Rivers College and the Sikeston Jaycees are teaming up to host the Championship College Rodeo next month.

The Rodeo has been scheduled for October 13th through the 15th at the Art Saunders Arena at the Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo grounds. The rodeo will begin at 7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday evenings, and 3 p.m. on Saturday.

The Championship is National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association-sanctioned and will feature top competitors from 15 college rodeo teams in the Association’s Ozark Region.

Events will include bull riding, bareback bronc riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and more.

More information is available on the Three Rivers Rodeo team Facebook page. 

ROADS IN KENNETT TO BE BLOCKED OFF TODAY FOR THE DELTA FAIR PARADE

Today marks the beginning of the Delta Fair in Kennett and city officials are warning motorists that some streets will be closed this evening.

According to the Kennett Police Department, officers will not allow any west bound traffic on First Street or Saint Francis Street, among others, due to the parade, which is scheduled to begin at 5:30 pm.

If you see anything suspicious during this week’s Delta Fair, Kennett Police Chief Kenny Wilson says you should contact the Kennett Police Department at 573-888-4622 or call 911 if it is an emergency. There will also be officers on the fairgrounds to assist the public. 

DEXTER WOMAN FACING FELONY DRUG CHARGE OUT OF BUTLER COUNTY

A Dexter woman is facing multiple drug related charges following her arrest Sunday in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 60 year old Roselee Miller was arrested shortly before 9 pm Sunday on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

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

SENIOR HEALTH FAIR SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

A health fair for area residents ages 50 and up will be held today in Butler County.

The free Senior Health Fair from the Butler County Community Resource Council and AmeriCorps Seniors, has been scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm 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.

AREA LIBRARY USES GRANT MONEY TO BUY SOLAR POWERED WIFI BENCHES

An area library has used grant money to expand WiFi access in Carter County.

The Carter County Library recently received a Strengthen Missourians Grant from the State Library, which allowed them to purchase three solar powered WiFi benches.

The benches were installed at Fremont Baptist Church, at the East Wood Community Center, as well as The City Hall in Grandin.

Officials say that the benches are for anyone to use and since they are solar powered they will also charge your phones and laptops as well as allow WiFi access.

AREA RESIDENTS INVITED TO TAKE A WALK IN A POPLAR BLUFF PARK

Area residents are being invited to take a walk in the park this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

A Walk in the Park, hosted by the Butler County Wellness Council, will be held from 11 am to 2 pm on Saturday, October 1st, at Hendrickson Park.

The walk will also serve as the kickoff for the month-long Walk-Tober competition. Participants will be tracking how many miles they walk during the month of October with prizes being awarded for the most Mileage tracked.

For more information, contact Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation at 573-686-8645. 

Monday, September 26, 2022

ONE KILLED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK

Crews were on the scene of a fatality wreck Saturday evening in Butler County.

Butler County Coroner Jim Akers tells KWOC News that the two vehicle crash occurred at around 5:50 pm Saturday on County Road 465 near Roxy Road. 

32 year old Gina Eberhart, of Poplar Bluff, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the second vehicle was uninjured.

The Butler County Sheriff’s Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Butler County Coroner’s Office, and Butler County EMS all responded to the scene. 

MAN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK IN NORTHERN BUTLER COUNTY

An area man was flown from the scene of a single vehicle wreck early Saturday morning in northern Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Timothy Gilliam, of Williamsville, was driving on US Highway 67 when his vehicle ran off the roadway and overturned.

Gilliam was ejected during the wreck and flown to a St. Louis hospital with serious injuries. 

TRAFFIC STOP LEADS TO DRUG ARREST IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A traffic stop Saturday in Clay County led to the seizure of multiple drugs.

Clay County Sheriff Terry Miller tells us that a deputy initiated the traffic stop for a speeding violation on Highway 135. The driver, identified as Justin Trinkle, of Corning, had a suspended driver’s license and is on felony probation.

The deputy executed a probation search on the vehicle and located over 140 grams of a green leafy substance along with $2,249. The Deputy took Trinkle into custody and transported him to the Corning Police Department.

A later search of Trinkle’s residence resulted in the seizing of over 829 grams of a green leafy substance, 29.1 grams of a white powdery substance that tested positive for cocaine, 6.4 grams of white pills identified as hydrocodone, 26 grams of a mushroom candy schedule two, an AR style rifle that had been defaced, and a pistol.

Miller says Trinkle is facing multiple charges including possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, possession of a defaced firearm, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He is being held without bond at the Greene County Detention Center. 

TWO ARRESTED IN MISSOURI BOOTHEEL ON COCAINE CHARGES

Two people were arrested over the weekend in the Missouri Bootheel on cocaine charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 33 year old Emmanuel Perez, of Aguascalientes, Mexico, and 21 year old Bryan Gonzalez-Carcega, of Veguita, New Mexico, were each taken into custody on a felony charge of Possession of a controlled substance – cocaine.

Gonzalez-Carcega is also facing a felony charge of unlawful use of a weapon.

Following their arrests, both men were held at the Pemiscot County Jail. 

RESIDENTS REMINDED TO NOT POST SIGNS ON STATE RIGHTS OF WAY

We are less than a month and a half away from the general election and state officials are reminding residents to not post signs on state rights of way.

According to officials, Missouri Department of Transportation policy prohibits installation or maintenance of non-approved items on state right of way.

Non-approved advertising signs or display materials include streamers, garage-sale signs, political signs, banners, and balloons

Officials say that unauthorized signs can create dangerous distractions for drivers and can also pose as obstacles for MoDOT’s roadside forces. 

SURFACE TREATMENT TO CAUSE RAMP CLOSURES TONIGHT AT INTERSTATE 55/US ROUTE 60 CLOVERLEAF

Drivers should expect ramp closures tonight at the Interstate 55, 57, and U.S. Route 60 cloverleaf interchange in Sikeston.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, crews will be working overnight to apply a high friction surface treatment to the pavement of the interchange.

Officials say that work is being done from 7 pm tonight to 7 am Tuesday morning to avoid impacts during peak traffic times. 

Friday, September 23, 2022

MAN IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO FATAL SHOOTING

An almost two hour stand-off in Southeast Missouri on Thursday came to an end peacefully. 

According to court information, Larry Greenlee, of Doniphan, has been charged with murder 2nd degree, assault 1st degree, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon.

According to a probable cause affidavit, deputies were dispatched to a residence in Ripley County early Saturday morning in response to a double shooting.

A subject at the residence, identified as Greenlee, told the deputy that he had shot two people that he found in the residence. 49 year old Christina Knowles, of Doniphan, was found dead in the residence.

36 year old Megan Ross, also of Doniphan, was transported to a St. Louis hospital for a gunshot wound to her arm.

Ross told officers that Greenlee had struck her vehicle with his vehicle and then fired multiple rounds into the residence, one of which struck her. Greenlee then allegedly entered the residence and shot Knowles.

Greenlee was taken into custody and pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Wednesday. A bond appearance hearing has been scheduled for October 5th. 

NEARLY TWO HOUR STAND-OFF ENDS PEACEFULLY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

An almost two hour stand-off in Southeast Missouri has come to an end.

Scott County Sheriff Wes Drury tells us that one subject has been taken into custody following the stand-off near Chaffee.

Shortly before 8:30 am Thursday morning a property owner reported that he heard a gunshot after advising the occupant of a property that he would need to move. The subject, identified as Louis Keller, fired several more shots while deputies were enroute.

Deputies arrived and found Keller barricaded inside a small camper he was staying in on the property. While the Sheriff’s Office and Missouri State Highway Patrol crisis negotiators tried talking to Keller, he fired several more rounds out of the camper.

Sheriff Drury says that shortly before 10:30 am, Keller came out of the camper without incident. No one was injured during the situation and Keller was transported to the hospital for evaluation.

No information was released on what charges Keller could be facing. 

NEW CHIEF NAMED FOR KENNETT FIRE DEPARTMENT

The Kennett Fire Department has a new leader.

Lance Davis has been announced as the new Kennett Fire Department Chief and Director of the Office of Emergency Management Services.

He is a lifelong resident of Dunklin County who has been with the Kennett Fire Department for 21 years.

Davis has served the last three years as the Assistant Fire Chief and Deputy Director of the Office of Emergency Management Services.

He is taking over for Paul Spain who recently retired. 

RODEO SET FOR TONIGHT AT THE STODDARD COUNTY FAIR

The Stoddard County Fair is continuing tonight and on Saturday with multiple events at the Stoddard County FairGrounds.

At 7 pm tonight, the rodeo is scheduled to begin at Arena A. Other entertainment scheduled for tonight include the Back Road Drive Band and Robinson Chainsaw Wood Carvers.

There are numerous events set for Saturday, including the livestock auction, public speech contest, and demo derby.

For more information, including a full schedule of events, go to www.stoddardcountyfair.com.

GRANDIN VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT TO HOST PANCAKE BREAKFAST

The Grandin Volunteer Fire Department will be hosting a fundraising pancake breakfast this weekend.

The event is scheduled to begin at 8 am on Saturday, September 24th at the Doniphan Community Center.

There will be pancakes, bacon, coffee, and orange juice available with plates costing $5 each.

There will also be a variety of baked goods for sale. All proceeds from the pancake breakfast will go to the Grandin Volunteer Fire Department. 

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS COLLECTING BOTTLE CAPS TO RAISE FUNDS

Students in Poplar Bluff are asking for your bottle caps to help raise funds.

The Poplar Bluff High School Beta Club is collecting teal bottle caps from Dr. Pepper products through January 31st for a chance to win up to $10,000 through the annual Collect the Caps contest, co-sponsored by Pepsi MidAmerica.

School officials say that the Beta Club won $6,000 last year and $2,500 in 2019.

50-gallon barrels have been set up at the Oak Grove Road campus for people to put the bottle caps in. 

Thursday, September 22, 2022

RECORD HIGH TEMPERATURES SET ON WEDNESDAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

Poplar Bluff’s high temperature on Wednesday eclipsed the previous record high set almost 70 years ago.

According to the National Weather Service, Poplar Bluff reached a high of 99 degrees during the afternoon on Wednesday, breaking the city’s previous record high for September 21st of 98 degrees set back in 1955.

Wednesday also marked the end of the final summer heat wave for the year, as highs in the mid 70’s are expected today and tomorrow.

GROUNDBREAKING SET FOR TODAY ON HIGHWAY 67 IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

A groundbreaking ceremony will be held this morning to celebrate the beginning of work on the US Route 67/Future Interstate 57 project in Butler County.

The ceremony will begin at 11 am this morning in front of Rice Trailers.

Work on this phase of the project began last month with officials anticipating the phase being complete by November of next year. 

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SENTENCED FOR DISTRIBUTING CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE NEAR SCHOOL

A Poplar Bluff man was sentenced last week for distributing a controlled substance near a school.

According to Butler County Prosecuting Attorney Kacey Proctor 43 year old Alphonse Avila was convicted by a Butler County jury in July of the offenses of distribution of a controlled substance within 2000 feet of a school and delivery of a controlled substance.

Evidence presented during the trial showed that in 2019 Avila sold methamphetamine to an undercover law enforcement officer outside of a residence which was located within 2000 feet of Poplar Bluff Middle School.

Just over two weeks later Avila sold methamphetamine to the same undercover law enforcement officer at Avila’s residence on County Road 603 in Poplar Bluff. Video evidence showed that the second sale took place with small children present.

Last week, Avila was sentenced to 20 years on the class A felony of distribution of a controlled substance in a protected location and 15 years on the class C felony of delivery of a controlled substance. Both sentences were ordered to be served concurrent to each other for a total of 20 years.

TRACTOR RODEO TO HIGHLIGHT TONIGHT AT THE STODDARD COUNTY FAIR

The Stoddard County Fair continues tonight with the tractor rodeo.

Judging for cattle and hogs will begin at 6 pm. At 7 pm, the FFA Tractor Rodeo will kick off at Arena A and Maggie Thorn will be performing on the main stage.

For more information, including a full schedule of events, go to www.stoddardcountyfair.com.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN SENTENCED ON FIREARM CHARGE

A Southeast Missouri man is facing almost a decade in federal prison for a firearm charge.

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that 38 year old Duramus Coleman, of Charleston has been sentenced to serve 115 months in federal prison for the charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

According to court documents, on October 22, 2021, a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper conducted a traffic stop of a Chevrolet Monte Carlo with expired license registration tags. Before coming to a stop, the driver attempted to flee and a vehicle pursuit ensued.

The driver later fled from the vehicle and was eventually found in an area residence. The subject was identified as Duramus Coleman and taken into custody without further incident. The trooper returned to the Monte Carlo and observed a pistol in plain-view inside the car.

Coleman was previously convicted of the felony offense of domestic assault in the second degree in Mississippi County and is therefore prohibited from possessing firearms.

MDC OFFERING REPORTS ON COLORS OF FALL FOLIAGE

With temperatures cooling down and trees beginning to change color, the Missouri Department of Conservation is encouraging people to enjoy fall foliage through camping, driving tours, hiking, or even floating.

The autumn equinox will occur at 8:03 pm this evening, ushering in the official beginning of the fall season.

To help Missourians get the best view of fall, the MDC is offering weekly online fall color updates from agency foresters all over the state at mdc.mo.gov/fallcolor.

The weekly reports include what kinds of trees are turning and suggestions on the best places to view them. The updates will run through November.

Wednesday, September 21, 2022

ADDITION OFFICERS PATROL AREA HIGH SCHOOL FOLLOWING RUMORS OF VIOLENCE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Poplar Bluff police are investigating a rumor of possible violence at the Poplar Bluff High School.

The Poplar Bluff Police Department had additional officers at the High School on Tuesday after they received information about the rumors on social media.

Police officials believe the rumors stem from a fight that had occurred at the school. 

MISSING NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WOMAN FOUND SAFE

Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, a silver alert issued for a missing Northeast Arkansas woman is now over.

According to the Paragould Police Department Diana Gaskill was located safe early Tuesday morning.

The silver alert was issued Monday afternoon for the 73 year old woman. 

POPLAR BLUFF BOARD OF EDUCATION SEEKING COMMUNITY INPUT IN SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH

The Poplar Bluff R-1 Board of Education is seeking community input in their search for the next superintendent for the school district.

Current Superintendent Dr. Scott Dill has announced that he will be retiring at the end of the current school year.

School officials say that an online survey has been created which lists leadership qualities of a superintendent. Community members can indicate the most desired leadership attributes that they perceive the new superintendent should have.

The results of this survey will be used by the board and consultants in seeking and screening applicants as well as for the development of the interview content. A link to the survey is available here.

Officials say the survey will close at 5 p.m. on Monday, October 3rd.

GOSPEL QUARTET HIGHLIGHT TONIGHT AT THE STODDARD COUNTY FAIR

The Stoddard County Fair continues tonight with multiple events on the schedule.

Judging for sheep and goats will begin at 6 pm. At 7 pm, the Joyful Noise Gospel Quartet will be performing on the main stage. Robinson Chainsaw Wood Carvers will also be performing beginning at 7 pm.

For more information, including a full schedule of events, go to www.stoddardcountyfair.com.

ROUTE W IN BUTLER COUNTY REDUCED THIS WEEK

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

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from U.S. Route 60 to County Road 525.

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

ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Route TT in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane beginning today as contractor crews perform pavement improvements.  

According to MoDOT, the section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route 164 to the Arkansas State line. 

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Monday, October 3rd from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.  

Tuesday, September 20, 2022

SILVER ALERT ISSUED FOR MISSING PARAGOULD WOMAN

A silver alert has been issued for a missing woman from the Paragould area.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 73 year old Diana Gaskill has been reported missing and was last known to be at 1301 East Lake Street near East Court Street and 14th Avenue in Paragould.

Paragould police say that Gaskill is possibly suffering from a cognitive disorder.

Gaskill is described as a white female, five feet, three inches tall, weighing 95 pounds, with white straight hair and blue eyes.

Anyone who has information on her whereabouts is asked to contact the Paragould Police Department at 870-236-7621.

STODDARD COUNTY FAIR TO BEGIN TODAY

The 2022 Stoddard County Fair is set to begin this evening.

The fair will kick-off with the parade in downtown Dexter at 5:30 pm.

The Dexter Police Department is reminding everyone to remove their vehicles from Stoddard Street by 4:30 pm this afternoon for the parade.

Dexter police officers will also be handing out water to onlookers during the parade.

There will be multiple nights of entertainment and events throughout the week as a part of the Stoddard County Fair, including performances by Maggie Thorn and the Other Brothers Band. 

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

TWO POPLAR BLUFF TEACHERS RECEIVE GRANT MONEY

Two Poplar Bluff teachers were recently awarded $500 grants from the Missouri Retired Teachers Foundation.

According to school officials, Hilary Taylor, who teaches a game design elective at the Junior High, and High School family and consumer science instructor Missy Cox were each awarded the grants last month.

Taylor’s grant will be used toward the purchase of the multiple games and accessories. Students will be taught the various game mechanics and scoring criteria this semester before being introduced to the steps in the design process.

Taylor’s students will then design, develop and test their own board or card games, including writing an instruction manual. The final product will be presented for a class vote to determine which game is the most playable.

With her grant money, Cox will purchase vacuum sealers, a food mill, jars, and more that will allow advanced foods students to be taught the preservation methods of pickling, water bath canning, freezing, and dehydrating.

HEALTH FAIR SET FOR OCTOBER 12TH IN VAN BUREN

Southern Care and Comfort in Home Agency and Veteran Services will be hosting a health fair next month in Van Buren.

The fair has been scheduled for 11 am to 1 pm on Wednesday, October 12th at 16 Ballpark Road.

There will be information about behavioral health, medical equipment, hospice, and more for area seniors. Attendees can also get a flu shot and their blood pressure checked.

For more information, call 417-264-6177.

PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Route TT in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane today as contractor crews perform pavement improvements.  

The section of roadway to be reduced is located from Route 164 to the Arkansas State line. 

Weather permitting, work will take from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

EXPECT DELAYS TODAY ON WESTBOUND US 60 IN STODDARD COUNTY 

Westbound U.S. Route 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement testing.

Officials say the testing zone is located between County Road 531 and County Road 517 near Dexter.

Crews are scheduled to be in place through 5 p.m. this evening.    

Monday, September 19, 2022

PARTIAL HUMAN REMAINS FOUND IN RURAL BUTLER COUNTY

Partial human remains were found on Saturday in rural Butler County.

According to Butler County Coroner Jim Akers, the remains were found in a drained pond on Butler County Road 572. Akers says that more tests will be conducted, but the remains are believed to be that of Ed Goodwin, who went missing in 2015.

Partial remains that were identified as Goodwin had previously been found during the Butler County Sheriff’s Department’s investigation of the incident. Goodwin’s family was draining the pond last week which caused the additional remains to be found.

Ricky Hurt was arrested following the 2017 discovery and pled guilty to 2nd degree murder. He was sentenced to 18 years’ incarceration. Eldrid Smith also pled guilty to 2nd degree murder and was sentenced to 12 years.

Akers is working with the Butler County Sheriff’s Department and Butler County Prosecutor’s office in the investigation. 

MOTORCYCLIST DEAD AFTER COLLIDING WITH VEHICLE IN BUTLER COUNTY

A motorcyclist has died after being involved in a wreck over the weekend in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Bradley Ward, of Poplar Bluff, was riding the motorcycle on Grand Avenue in Poplar Bluff on Sunday when he struck another vehicle.

Ward was pronounced dead at the scene by Butler County Coroner Jim Akers. No injuries were reported for the driver of the vehicle.  

HEAT WAVE TO USHER IN OFFICIAL END OF SUMMER

Fall will officially begin this week but summer is wanting to go out with a bang.

According to a hazardous weather outlook from the National Weather Service, record or near record heat is forecast for today through Wednesday, with high temperatures reaching into the middle and upper 90s.

The combination of heat and humidity will result in average peak heat index values around 100 degrees during the hottest hours of the afternoon.

In Poplar Bluff, the record high for September 19th was 96 degrees, set in 1953. For September 20th it is 100 degrees and for the 21st it is 98 degrees.

The first day of fall is on Thursday when highs are projected to the low 80’s in Poplar Bluff. 

MAN WINS $100,000 IN DONIPHAN THANKS TO CAR TROUBLE

An area man is $100,000 richer thanks to a little bit of car trouble in Southeast Missouri.  

According to the Missouri Lottery, the man’s vehicle was overheating so he decided to stop at a convenience store in Doniphan.

During the stop, the man purchased a “Fun 5s Scratchers game” which ended up being a top prize winner worth $100,000.

The man says he plans to use the winnings to purchase a new vehicle. 

EROSION WORK TO CAUSE DELAYS ON US ROUTE 60

Eastbound U.S. Route 60 in Butler County will be reduced with a 12-foot width restriction beginning today as contractor crews perform erosion work. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Friday, October 7th.  

Officials say that the work zones will be marked with signs. 

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE TO BEGIN TODAY ON ROUTE U IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route U in Butler County will be reduced to one lane for the first half of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.  

The section of roadway to be involved in the repairs is located between County Road 668 and the Butler County line. 

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Wednesday. 

Friday September 16, 2022

FIELDS OF FAITH TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH IN POPLAR BLUFF 

Fields of Faith is scheduled for next month in Poplar Bluff. 

Fields of Faith is a student led event where various students can pray and share their faith testimonies. 

The event will begin at 7 pm on Wednesday, October 5th, at the Poplar Bluff Junior High Football field. 

A free tailgate will start at 5:30 pm. 

In the event of bad weather, there may be a change of location.

ARCHERY DEER SEASON UNDERWAY IN MISSOURI 

Archery deer season began yesterday in Missouri and the Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding hunters to be safe. 

The initial archery season will run through November 11th and hunters are reminded that only one antlered deer may be taken before November 12th and they may take only two antlered deer during the archery and firearms deer hunting seasons combined. 

During archery season, hunters can use longbows, compound bows, and recurve bows of any draw weight, crossbows, and hand-held string-releasing devices, among other devices. 

Additional regulations are available at mdc.mo.gov.

PUMPKIN HOLLOW OPENING FOR THE FALL SEASON THIS WEEKEND 

A popular Northeast Arkansas destination will be opening for the fall season this weekend. 

Pumpkin Hollow in Piggott, Arkansas will begin their daytime activities on Saturday. 

Attractions will include the new mega slide, pumpkin hollow express train, apple canons, pumpkin patch, hayrides, pony rides, the corn maze, and more. 

Opening Night for the Horror in the Hollow nighttime attraction will be one week later on September 24th.

MOTORISTS AND FARMERS ARE URGED TO STAY ALERT ON ROADWAYS 

Many area farmers will soon be starting or are already in the process of harvesting their crops and the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety is reminding motorists to be prepared for heavier farm machinery traffic, especially on rural highways. 

When you come up behind a tractor or other farm machinery, remember to slow down and be patient. Wait to pass until you have a clear view of the road ahead and there is no oncoming traffic. Never pass on a hill or curve.

Officials say that collisions commonly occur when a motorist tries to pass a left-turning farm vehicle. A tractor that appears to be pulling to the right side of the road to let motorists pass, instead may be preparing to make a wide left turn. 

Be sure to watch the farmer’s hand and light signals closely.

31st ANNUAL OLD GREENVILLE DAYS BEGINS TODAY 

Today marks the beginning of the 31st Annual Old Greenville Days. 

According to the US Army of Corps of Engineers, the Greenville Day Use area will be the location for the event through September 18th. 

There will be live music all weekend, along with craft and food vendors as well as games and activities. 

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

PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENT PROJECT SCHEDULED TO START TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY 

Route WW in Stoddard County will be closed beginning today as contractor crews perform bridge repairs.   

This section of roadway is located between County Road 420 and County Road 436. 

Thursday September 15, 2022

DROUGHT CONDITIONS CONTINUE ACROSS PARTS OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

Drought conditions are continuing across parts of Southeast Missouri. 

Officials with the National Weather Service in Paducah say the latest drought monitor shows that portions of western Carter and Ripley counties remain in a moderate drought. 

The rest of Carter and Ripley Counties, along with Butler, Wayne, Stoddard, and New Madrid Counties are in a slight drought.

TWO FACING FELONY DRUG CHARGES IN NEW MADRID COUNTY 

Two people were arrested 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 methamphetamine following their arrests on Tuesday. 

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

DATE SET FOR FALL BUFF UP THE BLUFF 

A date has been set for the 2022 Fall Buff up the Bluff event.

The citywide clean up event has been scheduled for Saturday, October 15th. 

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

To arrange for curbside pickup of items for residents 65 years old and older you must call 573-686-8622 between the dates of October 10th and October 13th. 

For more information, go to the City of Poplar Bluff Facebook page.

STATE OFFICIALS ENCOURAGING PARENTS TO MAKE SURE THEIR CHILDREN ARE BUCKLED UP 

Missouri state officials are encouraging parents to make sure their children are buckled up for Child Passenger Safety Week. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, troopers issued citations to 1,185 drivers who failed to secure children less than eight years old in a child restraint/booster seat in 2021. 

Troopers also issued citations to an additional 184 drivers who failed to secure a child 80 pounds or more or over 4 foot 9 inches tall in a seat belt in 2021. 

Child Passenger Safety Week runs through September 24th.

For more information about the proper use of child restraint systems or to schedule a child safety seat inspection visit www.seatcheck.org.

BUTLER COUNTY COMMUNITY OUTREACH DAY SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER 

The Butler County Community Outreach Coalition is planning a big event for September. 

Community Outreach Day has been scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm on Friday, September 30th at First United Methodist Church in Poplar Bluff. 

Community Outreach Day is described as a one stop event where individuals and families in need can access free services. 

For more information, call 573-778-4425.

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.

Wednesday September 14, 2022

WOMAN SHOT OUTSIDE APARTMENT COMPLEX IN POPLAR BLUFF 

An investigation is underway after a woman was shot outside an apartment complex in Poplar Bluff. 

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tell KWOC News, that officers responded to a report of a gunshot victim early Tuesday morning, in the 1000 Block of Kinzer Street. 

At the scene, officers found a female victim who had been shot. She told officers she was outside her apartment, when two black males approached the building. The alleged suspects shot at her, striking her once in the abdomen area. The victim was transferred to a St. Louis hospital, her condition hasn’t been made available. 

No suspect is in custody at this time. Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

DEXTER MAN RECEIVES SERIOUS INJURIES IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK 

A Dexter man was seriously injured in a single vehicle wreck Monday afternoon in Stoddard County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the vehicle was traveling on Route AD, near Dexter, when it ran off the right side of the roadway and overturned.

The driver, 60 year old Scott Billingsley, of Dexter, was seriously injured and taken by ambulance to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD SCREENING SET FOR EARLY OCTOBER 

Officials say that appointments are still available for this school year at the Poplar Bluff Early Childhood Center. 

If you would like to enroll your child into the Poplar Bluff Early Childhood program for this year, call 573-785-6803 for an appointment. 

The next screening will be held on October 4th and around 30 spots remain.  

Parents are asked to have their child’s social security number ready when calling to make an appointment.

ROUTE W BRIDGE IN BUTLER COUNTY NOW REOPENED 

A bridge in Butler County which has been closed since June has now been reopened. 

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 reopened to traffic late Tuesday afternoon.

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.

STODDARD COUNTY FAIR SET FOR NEXT WEEK 

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.

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.