Tuesday, November 8, 2022

TODAY IS ELECTION DAY 

A number of races and propositions will be voted on today by citizens in Missouri and Arkansas.

Voters across Missouri will be voting on the United States Senate race between Republican Eric Schmitt and Democrat Trudy Busch Valentine. Both vying to fill the seat of Roy Blunt, who announced earlier this year that he will not seek reelection.

Numerous spots in the Arkansas State Government are also being decided today including Governor, where Democrat Chris Jones and Republican Sarah Huckabee Sanders are the two frontrunners to take over for current Governor Asa Hutchinson, who will leave the position due to term limits.  

You can find your polling location at the Missouri Secretary of State website at sos.mo.gov or the Arkansas Secretary of State website at sos.arkansas.gov. 

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

A pedestrian was transported to an area hospital late Sunday night after being struck by a vehicle.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 34 year old Alecia Zahlen, of Poplar Bluff, was hit on Business 67, a half mile south of the city, shortly before 10 pm on Sunday.

Zahlen suffered moderate injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. 

ONE DEAD, TWO INJURED FOLLOWING CRASH ON US HIGHWAY 61

A crash involving four vehicles left one person dead Monday morning.

According to authorities, the crash occurred on US Highway 61 in Matthews when a vehicle struck another vehicle from behind. The second vehicle then struck a third vehicle. Debris from the crash then struck a fourth vehicle.

The driver of the first vehicle, identified as 88 year old Howard Melton, of Matthews, was pronounced dead at the scene by New Madrid County Coroner George DeLisle.

Two people in the third vehicle suffered minor injuries and were transported to a Sikeston hospital. 

MOTORCYCLE CRASH LEAVES MAN WITH SERIOUS INJURIES

A Motorcycle crash over the weekend in Southeast Missouri left a Texas man with serious injuries.

According to the Highway Patrol, 59 year old Michael Crabtree, of Lone Star, Texas, was driving the motorcycle on Route E near Cooter when he lost control of the vehicle and was ejected.

Crabtree, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was seriously injured and flown to a St. Louis hospital. 

EARTHQUAKE SHAKES VAN BUREN AREA

Over 70 people have reported feeling an earthquake that happened over the weekend in southeast Missouri.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 3.2 earthquake was recorded shortly after noon on Saturday, six miles north of Van Buren.

The earthquake had a depth of over five miles. 

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO FORCE CLOSURE OF BUTLER COUNTY ROAD

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

The section of Route DD to be closed is located between County Road 580 and County Road 569 near Fisk.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. both today and tomorrow.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE TEMPORARY REDUCTION OF STODDARD COUNTY ROAD

Route 114 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

The work zone is located from Route CC to U.S. 60 near Morehouse. 

Work is scheduled to take place today from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.  

Monday, November 7, 2022

POPLAR BLUFF TO PLAY THIS FRIDAY FOR A DISTRICT FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

The Poplar Bluff football season is not over yet.

The Mules struck early Friday night in the Class 5, District 1 semifinal against Jackson, before holding on down the stretch to scratch out a 21-20 victory.

Poplar Bluff now advances to the District Championship game on Friday night, where they will travel to Cape Girardeau to take on the Cape Central Tigers.

Kick-off is set for 7 pm and live audio coverage of the game will be provided by Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM. A video stream of the game can also be purchased for $10 at MSHSAA.tv. 

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI HIGH SCHOOL CELEBRATING VOLLEYBALL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

An area volleyball team has brought home a state championship to Southeast Missouri.

The Advance Hornets defeated the Miller Cardinals three sets to two on Saturday to win the Missouri Class 1 State Volleyball tournament.

The Hornets were behind after losses in the first and third sets, but rallied back to force a decisive 5th set, which they took 15-12.

Advance finishes the season with a 27 and 10 record. 

WOMAN CHARGED WITH ABUSE OR NEGLECT OF A CHILD FOLLOWING INCIDENT AT DAEOC EARLY LEARNING CENTER

A woman is facing charges for alleged child abuse.

According to the Hayti Police Department, last week officers received a report from the DAEOC Early Learning Center in reference to an ex-employee. The staff reported that one of their teachers, 23-year-old Gladys Johnson, was witnessed on video abusing her students.

Police officials say that in the videos Johnson was observed striking, grabbing, choking, and cursing at the students.

Johnson was taken into custody without incident and has been formally charged with abuse or neglect of a child with serious emotional or physical injury.

No bond was set in the case. 

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI VOTERS TO HEAD TO THE POLLS TOMORROW

There are a few competitive races that will be decided tomorrow in Southeast Missouri.

Voters in Ripley and Pemiscot Counties will be deciding on Recorder of Deeds races, while New Madrid County residents will be voting for a Treasurer.

Local propositions are also being asked in multiple communities.

Bloomfield, Dexter, and Puxico are all holding propositions for the appointment of a Collector, while Bell City and Bloomfield are asking citizens if the communities can forego annual elections if the number of candidates who have filed for each office is equal to the number of positions for each office to be filled by the election.

PORTION OF ROUTE B IN BUTLER COUNTY SCHEDULED TO BE CLOSED TODAY

Route B in Butler County is being closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway. 

Officials say the work zone is located between Route Z and County Road 581 near Fisk.

Work is scheduled to take place today through 3 p.m.   

CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR MULTIPLE ROAD PROJECTS IN BUTLER COUNTY

Multiple contracts were awarded last week for road improvements in Butler County.

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded an 8.77 million dollar contract for pavement resurfacing on Route 53 in Butler County from Business 67 to Route 25.

A 9.07 million dollar contract was also announced for various resurfacing projects on Route 60 in Butler and Stoddard counties.

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

Friday November 4, 2022

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS THIS WEEKEND 

The sun will begin rising an hour earlier on Sunday. 

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

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

Daylight Saving Time will start again on Sunday, March 12th, 2023. 

MISSOURI VOTERS TO DECIDE ON STATE CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION 

Missourians will decide next Tuesday if wide sweeping changes are needed for the state Constitution. 

The Missouri Constitutional Convention question will ask voters if the governor should call an election of delegates to serve at a convention for the purpose of revising or amending the Missouri Constitution. 

Any revisions or amendments will then be put to a vote of the people for their consideration. 

The state asks its citizens every 20 years if there should be a constitutional convention. In 2002, over 65 percent of voters chose no.

DEER SEASON BEGINS NEXT SATURDAY 

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

Officials with the Missouri Department of Conservation say that the November portion of the firearms deer season runs from November 12th through the 22nd and the opening weekend is the most popular two days for most deer hunters in Missouri. 

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

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

FOOTBALL DISTRICT PLAYOFFS TO CONTINUE TONIGHT 

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

The four seed Mules are going on the road to take on the top seed Jackson in the Class 5, District 1 Semifinals. 

Should the Mules win, they will either travel to either two seed Oakville or three seed Cape Central next week. 

Live audio coverage of the game will be provided by Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM with the kick off scheduled for 7 pm. We will also be streaming the game audio at Youtube.com/RiverRadioPB and Facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC.

ARKANSAS RESIDENTS TO VOTE ON FOUR STATEWIDE BALLOT MEASURES 

Four state wide issues will be on the ballots next week in Arkansas. 

Arkansas Issue 1 would allow the General Assembly to convene in extraordinary session upon the issuance of a joint written proclamation of the speaker of the House of Representatives and the president pro tempore of the Senate or upon the submission of a written proclamation containing the signatures of at least 2/3 of the members of each of the House of Representatives and the Senate. 

Arkansas Issue 2 would require a sixty percent supermajority vote of approval from voters to adopt constitutional amendments and citizen-initiated state statute. 

Arkansas Issue 3 would create the "Arkansas Religious Freedom Amendment"; and to provide that government may never burden a person's freedom of religion except in the rare circumstance that the government demonstrates that application of the burden to the person is in furtherance of a compelling government interest and is the least restrictive means of furthering that compelling government interest. 

Arkansas Issue 4 would authorize the possession, personal use, and consumption of cannabis by adults, to authorize the cultivation and sale of cannabis by licensed commercial facilities, and to provide for the regulation of those facilities.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AUTO TOUR TO BEGIN ON NOVEMBER 25TH 

We are three weeks away from the beginning of a holiday tradition in Southeast Missouri. 

The 30th Annual Festival of Lights Auto Tour will be held in the Redman Creek Campground East from 5pm to 9pm on November 25th to December 25th. 

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

Thursday November 3, 2022

NO EXCUSE ABSENTEE VOTING STILL AVAILABLE IN MISSOURI 

Registered voters in Missouri can still cast their ballots. 

According to the Missouri Secretary of State’s office, no-excuse in person absentee voting is now available through Monday in the state. 

Anyone who wants to cast their ballot will need to contact their local election authority to find the appropriate place to vote and remember to bring a government issued ID. 

Absentee voting will be available through November 7th. 

More information is available at GoVoteMissouri.com.

MISSOURI RESIDENTS TO VOTE ON FOUR CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS 

Missouri voters will be deciding on four constitutional amendments next week. 

Missouri Amendment 1 would allow the General Assembly to override the current constitutional restrictions of state investments by the state treasurer; and allow state investments in municipal securities possessing one of the top five highest long term ratings or the highest short term rating. 

Missouri Amendment 3 would legalize the purchase, possession, consumption, use, delivery, manufacture, and sale of marijuana for personal use for adults over the age of twenty-one; allow individuals with certain marijuana-related offenses to petition for release from prison or parole and probation and have their records expunged; and enact a six percent tax on the retail price of recreational marijuana. 

Missouri Amendment 4 would allow the general assembly by law to increase the minimum funding for a police force established by the state board of police commissioners to ensure such police force has additional resources to serve its communities. The only police force established by the state board of police commissioners is in Kansas City. 

Missouri Amendment 5 asks if the Missouri National Guard, which is currently under the Missouri Department of Public Safety, should be its own department, which shall be required to protect the constitutional rights and civil liberties of Missourians.

DAY USE FEES SUSPENDED AT CERTAIN BOAT RAMPS ON WAPPAPELLO LAKE 

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

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake, day use fees will not be charged to use boat ramps at Chaonia Landing North and South, Rockwood Point, Redman Creek, Sundowner, and Peoples Creek through March 31st, 2023. 

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

DEXTER TEENAGER SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH 

A Dexter teenager was injured in a wreck Tuesday morning in New Madrid County. 

According to authorities, the wreck occurred when the vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway, struck a ditch, and overturned, ejecting the driver on Route AA, just east of Matthews. 

The driver, identified as 19 year old Kaylee Stinnett, of Dexter, was seriously injured in the crash and transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

ARKANSAS RESIDENTS TO DECIDE ON A NEW GOVERNOR 

Arkansas residents will be heading to the polls next week to decide on a new Governor. 

Democrat Chris Jones and Republican Sarah Huckabee Sanders are the two frontrunners to take over for current Governor Asa Hutchinson, who will leave the position due to term limits. 

Incumbent Republican John Boozman is running for reelection to be one of Arkansas' two United States Senators. He is facing a challenge from Democrat Natalie James. 

In the United States House of Representatives, Republican incumbent Rick Crawford will face Democrat Monte Hodges to represent District 1.

For District 1 of the Arkansas House of Representatives, the matchup will feature Democrat Teresa Roofe and Republican Jeremy Wooldridge. 

YOUTH HUNTERS HARVEST OVER 13,000 DEER IN MISSOURI 

Youth hunters in Missouri took over 13,000 deer during the early youth portion of the 2022 deer hunting season. 

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation shows that young hunters ages 6 through 15 harvested 13,700 deer during the hunting season which ran from October 29th through the 30th. 

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

Wednesday November 2, 2022

FIRE BURNS WILLIAMSVILLE AREA BUSINESS AND APARTMENT BUILDING 

A fire damaged a Wayne County business and neighboring apartment building late Monday evening. 

Wayne County Sheriff Dean Finch tells KWOC News that the fire occurred at around 9 pm Monday night at Holmes Store in Williamsville. The fire at the grocery store also spread to an apartment building. The apartment building dates back to the 1800s and the loss of Holmes Store means the closest grocery store is now approximately 25 miles away, in Poplar Bluff. 

Finch says that every available firetruck in the county, along with other firefighters from Van Buren, Farmington, and Butler County assisted in putting out the fire.  

Officials say no injuries have been reported and the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s office is investigating. 

HUNTERS REMINDED TO BE AWARE OF BAITING REGULATIONS 

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

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

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

More information is available at mdc.mo.gov.

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.

SCHMITT AND VALENTINE BATTLE TO TAKE BLUNT’S SENATE SEAT 

One closely watched race for next week is the battle to take over a soon to be vacant Senate seat in Missouri.

Republican Eric Schmitt and Democrat Trudy Busch Valentine are both vying to fill the seat of United States Senator Roy Blunt, who announced earlier this year that he will not seek reelection. 

Missouri voters will also be deciding on a new state auditor between Democrat Alan Green and Republican Scott Fitzpatrick. Current Missouri Auditor Nicole Galloway announced last year that she was not going to run for the seat again. 

In Southeast Missouri, Incumbent Republican Jason Smith is defending his seat in the United States House of Representatives against Democratic challenger Randi McCallian.

POPLAR BLUFF FIRE DEPARTMENT OFFERING FREE SMOKE ALARMS 

The Poplar Bluff Fire Department is offering free smoke alarms. 

Poplar Bluff Fire Chief Mike Moffitt tells KWOC News, his agency has received a shipment of smoke alarms from the Home Depot in Poplar Bluff, and the alarms are free to the public. 

Poplar Bluff Firefighters will also come to your home and install the alarm for you. Chief Moffitt says that the goal is to get alarms installed in every residential home in Poplar Bluff. 

For more information or to schedule an installation appointment, call 573-686-8692.

POPLAR BLUFF HEROES TO RAISE MONEY FOR ST. JUDE WITH LADIES NIGHT OUT 

Ladies can have a fun night out this month and raise money for the kids at St. Jude. 

Poplar Bluff Heroes will be presenting Ladies Night Out and Designer Handbag Bingo at the Black River Coliseum on Friday, November 11th. Social Hour will begin at 5 pm, with the event starting at 6 pm. 

Organizers say that there will be dinner and prizes in addition to crafts, vendors, music, and more. 

Tickets can be purchased online at Eventbrite.com. 

All proceeds from the event will go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Tuesday November 1, 2022

THREE ARRESTED ON FELONY WARRANTS IN DUNKLIN COUNTY 

Three people were recently taken into custody on felony warrants in Dunklin County. 

According to the Malden Police Department, 21 year old Dushawndra Johnson, of Malden, and 23 year old Henry Peoples, of Blytheville, Arkansas, were each arrested on Dunklin County felony warrants for unlawful use of a weapon and child endangerment. 31 year old Timothy Hill, of Malden, was arrested for 1st degree assault and unlawful possession of a firearm. 

Officials did not say if the three arrests were connected. 

All three remain in jail as of this morning.

HIGHWAY PATROL REMINDING MOTORISTS TO LOOK OUT FOR DEER 

Missouri officials are warning motorists to watch out for deer. 

Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that deer are more active and create hazards for Missouri motorists at this time of year. 

The majority of deer strike crashes take place in November. Although deer strikes can occur at any time, most occur between the hours of 6 and 7 am in the morning and 6 to 9 pm in the evening.

Last year, drivers in Missouri experienced over 3,700 traffic crashes where deer-vehicle strikes occurred. One deer strike occurred around every two hours and 18 minutes in the state. In these crashes, there were three fatalities and 420 people were injured.

MISSISSIPPI RIVER BRIDGE TO BE CLOSED TODAY 

A bridge over the Mississippi River will be closed today. 

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation the US Highway 60/62 Bridge over the Mississippi River will be closed to all traffic beginning today. 

Officials say the closure could extend through Wednesday and message boards will be in place to direct traffic.

ELECTION DAY IS ONE WEEK FROM TODAY 

A number of races and propositions will be voted on next week by citizens in Missouri and Arkansas. 

In addition to State and Federal races, voters will also be deciding numerous local officials next Tuesday. 

Voters will also choose whether to enact various ballot propositions. 

We will be providing previews of some of the key races in both states throughout this week.

You can find your polling location and additional voting information at the Missouri Secretary of State website at sos.mo.gov or the Arkansas Secretary of State website at sos.arkansas.gov.

HUNTERS ENCOURAGED TO SHARE THEIR HARVEST WITH FAMILIES IN NEED 

Hunters across the state of Missouri are being asked to share their harvest to help feed families in need. 

The Missouri Department of Conservation Share the Harvest program provides food to the hungry through deer meat donated by hunters.  

Hunters can choose to give part or all of any deer they harvest. They simply bring their deer to an approved meat processor to process the venison, usually into ground meat, where it is then packaged for distribution. 

Share the Harvest is a statewide partnership between MDC, the Conservation Federation of Missouri, cooperating meat processors, and hunters.  

For more details on the Share the Harvest program and a list of processors participating, visit mdc.mo.gov/share.

13TH ANNUAL HOWLING AT THE MOON SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK

The Animal Welfare Alliance of Southeast Missouri is preparing for their upcoming benefit this week. 

“Howling at the Moon,” the 13th annual fall benefit for the AWA is scheduled for 6 to 10 pm on Friday, November 4th at the Westwood Center in Poplar Bluff. 

There will be a full dinner, live music, a silent Auction, and a raffle. Tickets are $40 and you can find more information at AWASemo.org.

Monday October 31, 2022

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FROM THE POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT 

Halloween is today and Poplar Bluff Police Chief Mike McClain has some tips to help keep your children safe while trick or treating.  

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

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

You can find a list of area trunk or treat locations on our website, just click on the Halloween Happenings link.

ASPHALT REPAIRS TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF PORTION OF BARRON ROAD IN POPLAR BLUFF 

An upcoming project will cause the temporary closure of a portion of a Poplar Bluff road. 

According to the Poplar Bluff Street Department, beginning at 8:30 am this morning, crews will be doing asphalt repairs in the intersection of Barron Road and Main Street. 

Officials say that Barron Road will be closed to thru traffic at 14th Street, while Main Street will have one lane open.

Motorists will not be able to turn onto Barron Road off of Main Street until the work is finished, however you can still access the daycare on the corner. 

Officials say the project should be completed between 2:30 and 3 pm.

MULES FOOTBALL TEAM ADVANCES TO DISTRICT SEMIFINALS 

The Poplar Bluff Mules football team is heading to Jackson on Friday. 

The four seed Mules defeated five seed Fox 30-0 last Friday in the Class 5, District 1 football quarterfinals. 

With the win, the Mules now advance to the District Semifinals this Friday night, where they will travel to the north to take on the one seed Jackson Indians. 

Live audio coverage of the game will be provided by Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM and online at youtube.com/RiverRadioPB and Facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE SEARCHING FOR MAN WHO HAS BEEN MISSING SINCE LATE AUGUST 

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are asking for the public’s help in locating a man who has been missing since late August.

According to Detective Joey Woodruff, Robert Raymond Rasmussen has been missing since his release from the Butler County Justice Center on August 27th. 

He was reported missing the next day. 

Rasmussen is described as a white male, six feet four inches tall, weighing 125 pounds, with a tattoo on his right shoulder. 

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

Anyone who has information on his whereabouts is asked to contact Detective Woodruff at 573-785-5776, extension 1360.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF SCHOLARSHIP TO ASSIST LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY RECRUITS 

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has announced the launch of the $1 million “Missouri Blue Scholarship” fund to help attract more Missourians to law enforcement careers and address officer shortages in law enforcement agencies across Missouri. 

The Scholarship pays $5,000 toward the cost of a Missouri resident attending a law enforcement academy in the state. Missouri Blue Scholarships are now available and will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. 

Officials say that the scholarships are available until all available funding is utilized for applicants who intend to be commissioned as law enforcement officers upon academy graduation. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and Missouri residents attending or planning to enter a law enforcement academy. 

More information is available at dps.mo.gov.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THIS WEEK FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT 

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

The section of roadway to be closed is located between County Roads 725 and 727 near New Madrid.   

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Friday. 

Friday, October 28, 2022

FOOTBALL DISTRICT PLAYOFFS TO BEGIN TODAY

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

The Mules earned a four seed in the Class 5, District 1 playoffs and will host the five seed Fox Warriors in a Quarterfinal matchup at 7 pm. 

Poplar Bluff and Fox previously met this season on September 30th, where the Mules picked up a 28-7 home victory.

Should the Mules win tonight, they will travel to top seed Jackson next week for the District Semifinal. 

Live audio coverage of the game will be provided by Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM and online at youtube.com/RiverRadioPB and Facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC. 

ASPHALT REPAIRS TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF PORTION OF BARRON ROAD IN POPLAR BLUFF

An upcoming project will cause the temporary closure of a portion of a Poplar Bluff road.

According to the Poplar Bluff Street Department, beginning at 8:30 am on Monday, October 31st, crews will be doing asphalt repairs in the intersection of Barron Road and Main Street.

Officials say that Barron Road will be closed to thru traffic at 14th Street, while Main Street will have one lane open.

Motorists will not be able to turn onto Barron Road off of Main Street until the work is finished, however you can still access the daycare on the corner.

Officials say the project should be completed between 2:30 and 3 pm. 

TWIN RIVERS STUDENTS TO PARADE DOWN THE STREETS OF FISK TODAY

Twin Rivers students will be showing off their Halloween costumes today on the streets of Fisk.

Kindergarten through Fourth Grade students at Fisk Elementary School will be walking through the town for the 2022 Costume Parade. The event will begin at 2:15 pm with the parade route including parts of McKinley Avenue, as well as 2nd, 4th, and Dale Streets.

Community members are being invited to line the streets and cheer the students on. 

ANOTHER EARTHQUAKE RECORDED IN THE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AREA

Another earthquake has rattled Southeast Missouri this week.

According to an official report from the United States Geological Survey, the magnitude 2.8 quake was recorded shortly after 5 am Thursday morning.

The earthquake was centered just over 20 miles southwest of Sikeston and had a depth of over five miles. 

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS FROM THE POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT

Halloween is coming up on Monday and Poplar Bluff Police Chief Mike McClain has some tips to help keep your children safe while trick or treating. 

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

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

You can find a list of area trunk or treat locations on our website, just click on the Halloween Happenings link. 

BIG BOOK SALE PLANNED FOR THIS WEEKEND AT THE POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY

The Poplar Bluff Library is planning for multiple sales this week.

The Library will host a Special Collectibles Book Sale today from noon to 6 p.m. as well as its annual big Book Sale on Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Both sales will be held at the Library's Main Branch on North Main Street.

The Special Collectibles Book Sale will feature over 1,700 rare finds that have never been offered in the Library's previous annual book sales. The annual big book sale at the Library will include thousands of books, DVDs, and other items.

For more information about the book sales, contact the Poplar Bluff Library at 573-686-8639.

Thursday, October 27, 2022

NEELYVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR SERVICES OF TONY EAKINS

The Neelyville R-4 School District will not be holding classes today.

Superintendent Heather Black tells KWOC News that classes have been canceled so students, faculty, and staff can attend the services of Tony Eakins, who passed away this week. 

Eakins had served a variety of roles for the School District since 1999, including as a mechanic, a bus driver, and also helping with summer maintenance.

Black added that Eakins was a wonderful asset to the District and leaves a great legacy in the Neelyville R-4 school family. 

DONIPHAN MAN KILLED IN WRECK NEAR THAYER

A Doniphan man is dead following a single vehicle wreck early Wednesday morning in Oregon County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 24 year old Robert Widding was driving on Highway 142, four miles east of Thayer, when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and struck an embankment as well as several trees.

Widding, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected during the wreck. He was later pronounced dead by Oregon County Deputy Coroner Robert Clary. 

FIVE POPLAR BLUFF TEACHERS AWARDED $100 CLASSROOM GRANTS

Five Poplar Bluff teachers have been chosen to receive grant money.

According to Poplar Bluff school officials, the Missouri State Teachers Association recently awarded five $100 classroom project grants to Poplar Bluff faculty members.

The successful recipients included Poplar Bluff High School business instructor Crystal Huddleston, sixth grade teacher Charlene Mills of the Middle School, and second grade educators DeDe Ross of Lake Road, Cheri Sparkman of Eugene Field. and Carey Wilkerson of Oak Grove.

The teachers will use the grant money for a variety of projects for students. 

SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH NEAR ELLINGTON LEAVES ONE DEAD

A single vehicle crash Tuesday night in Reynolds County resulted in the death of an Ellington man.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred when 21 year old Lane Roderman ran off the left side of Route HH and struck a tree.

Roderman, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected from the vehicle and later transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital where he was pronounced dead. 

EARTHQUAKE SHAKES PARTS OF MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

Residents in the Missouri bootheel might have felt some shaking Wednesday morning.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.7 earthquake was recorded at 8:10 Wednesday morning.

The quake was centered 33 miles east of Kennett and had a depth of over three and a half miles. 

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN RIPLEY COUNTY

Route 142 in Ripley County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction today as MoDOT crews perform bridge maintenance.

The work zone will be located over Fourche Creek between County Road 142W-2 and 142W.

According to officials, work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

KEITH HEFNER APPOINTED AS NEW DEPUTY CHIEF FOR THE POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT

A new Deputy Chief of the Poplar Bluff Police Department has been selected.

Police Chief Mike McClain tells KWOC News that Charles Keith Hefner II has been appointed as the new Deputy Chief for the Police Department.

Hefner was first hired as a front desk officer with the Poplar Bluff Police Department in October of 1995 until transferring to communications a short time later. He was appointed to the Patrol Division in August of 2003. He was promoted to Patrol Corporal in 2008, Sergeant in 2009, and Lieutenant in June 2018.

Hefner has advanced training in Hostage Negotiation/Crisis Negotiations, as well as First Line Supervision and Management Development.

McClain tells us that Hefner has displayed time and time again the ability to effectively and efficiently lead personnel. McClain added that Hefner's approach to leadership, to handling crises, and day-to-day decision making made him the best choice for the position.

TWO IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO NEW MADRID COUNTY SHOOTING

Two people are in custody in connection to a shooting last week in New Madrid County.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, a 32 year old Sikeston man suffered a gunshot wound to his face on Thursday, October 20th.

The victim had been attempting to break up an altercation between two individuals when he was wounded. He was flown to a St. Louis hospital and is in critical, but stable condition.  

Two Sikeston residents were taken into custody on charges of 1st degree assault and armed criminal action, 25 year old Jalon Marr and 28 year old Jameka Marr.

They are both being held on a no bond warrant. 

NO EXCUSE ABSENTEE VOTING NOW AVAILABLE IN MISSOURI

Registered voters in Missouri can begin casting their ballots.

According to the Missouri Secretary of State’s office, no-excuse in person absentee voting is now available in the state.

Anyone who wants to cast their ballot will need to contact their local election authority to find the appropriate place to vote and remember to bring a government issued ID.

Absentee voting will be available through November 7th.

More information is available at GoVoteMissouri.com.

CITY OF DEXTER TO CONDUCT ANNUAL FALL FLOWER REMOVAL 

Dexter residents are being asked to remove their flowers from the city cemetery.

In preparation for fall, the Deter Street Department will be conducting their annual Fall Flower Removal from the Dexter Cemetery.

Officials say that anyone who does not want their flowers to be discarded must remove them before October 31st.  

AREA LAW ENFORCEMENT TO HOST DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT

Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas residents will have a chance to safely dispose of their unused, unwanted, or expired prescription drugs this week.

Multiple area law enforcement agencies will be participating in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 29th from 10 am to 2 pm.

Organizations who will be participating include the Doniphan and Kennett Police Departments as well as the Clay County Sheriff’s Department. You can find a drop off location in your area by going to DeaTakeBack.com.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Route H in Dunklin County will be reduced beginning today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

Officials say that the work zone is located from Route J to Route 53 near Campbell.

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

Tuesday, October 25, 2022

PEDESTRIAN DEAD AFTER BEING STRUCK BY A VEHICLE NEAR DONIPHAN

A pedestrian was struck and killed by a vehicle Sunday night near Doniphan.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 70 year old Hank Stufflebeam, of Doniphan was struck at around 8 pm Sunday night on US Highway 160, five miles east of Doniphan.

Stufflebeam was pronounced dead at the scene by Ripley County Coroner Mike Jackson. No injuries were listed for the driver of the vehicle. 

MAN BELIEVED TO HAVE SET WOODED AREA ON FIRE TO ESCAPE FROM AUTHORITIES

A man is in custody after fleeing from authorities over the weekend in Butler County.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News, that on Sunday, deputies responded to the area of County Road 401 in reference to a stolen vehicle.

When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver, identified as 36 year old Lucas Henson, of Ironton, fled the scene.

Dobbs says it is believed that Henson set a wooded area on fire to aid in his escape. Henson was later apprehended by a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper.

Henson is being held in the Butler County Justice Center and Dobbs says that charges will be requested for receiving stolen property as well as felony fleeing.

Dobbs added that the US Forest Service Law Enforcement Division will conduct further investigation into the fire of the wooded area that occurred in the Mark Twain National Forest and potential charges of arson may be forthcoming. 

MISSING TEENAGER POSSIBLY IN DANGER

Authorities in Randolph County, Arkansas are asking for the public’s help in locating a missing teenager.

According to the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, the search is underway for 17 year old Damon Dickey. Officials say that the teen might be in danger but residents should not try to approach or stop the boy.

Anyone who has information on Dickey’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office at 870-892-8888 or your local law enforcement agency. 

OFFICER SHOT LAST WEEK IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS HAS RETURNED HOME

Updating a story we brought to you last week, an officer that was shot in the line of duty in Northeast Arkansas has returned home.

Captain Brad Snyder with the Paragould Police Department tells KWOC News that Corporal Owen Mundy was wounded by gunfire when a subject shot at him and another officer on October 18th.

During the incident, the officers returned fire and the subject died at the scene.

Mundy was transported to a Memphis hospital and required surgery for his injuries.

Snyder says that Mundy is now home recovering from the surgery.

Snyder added that the incident is still under investigation by the Arkansas State Police and at this time no other names involved will be released.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION RELEASED ABOUT ALLEGED ATTEMPTED ROBBERY IN PARAGOULD

Updating a story we brought to you last week, officials have released additional information concerning an alleged attempted robbery in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Paragould Police Department, on October 18th a 47 year old woman was held at gunpoint by a juvenile outside an area residence.

Following a brief struggle, the suspect’s gun discharged into the ceiling of a carport, which prompted the victim’s 25 year old daughter to come outside the residence with her own firearm. The daughter then discharged her firearm at the juvenile suspect.

Police officials say that the juvenile was taken to a Memphis hospital for his injuries and further information will be released when appropriate.

TWO INJURED DURING MULTI VEHICLE WRECK IN STODDARD COUNTY

Two people were injured during a multi vehicle wreck Sunday in Stoddard County.

According to authorities, the crash occurred on Missouri Highway 25, two miles south of Dexter while two vehicles were stopped in traffic at a fire scene. An oncoming vehicle failed to yield and struck both of the stopped vehicles. One of the vehicles hit then struck a pedestrian.

The driver of one of the vehicles struck, 33 year old Lauren Neuhaus, of Dexter, suffered serious injuries and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

The pedestrian received moderate injuries and was transported to a Dexter hospital. 

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY

Route KK in Stoddard County will be closed today and tomorrow as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

The section of roadway to be closed is located from Route 114 to County Road 732 near Essex.

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

Monday, October 24, 2022

HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Authorities in Southeast Missouri are investigating a homicide from over the weekend.

Charleston DPS Director Robert Hearnes tells KWOC News that officers received a report of a person being shot at an area residence early Sunday morning.

Officers found 50 year old Rodney Johnson, of Charleston, deceased at the residence.

Hearnes says that the Missouri State Highway Patrol and Mississippi County Sheriff’s Department are assisting with the homicide investigation.

Anyone who has information is urged to contact the Charleston DPS at 573-683-3737.

OHIO MAN KILLED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI WRECK

An Ohio man was killed in a single vehicle wreck Saturday evening in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 44 year old Roland Bonner, of Akron, Ohio, was driving on Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County when his vehicle ran off the side of the roadway and struck a ditch embankment.

Bonner was pronounced dead at the scene by Pemiscot County Coroner James Brimhall. 

THIS WEEKEND IS THE FINAL WEEKEND FOR THE GREENVILLE JACK O’LANTERN JUBILEE

This weekend is the final weekend for the 2022 Greenville Jack O’Lantern Jubilee.

According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the free event will be held from 5 to 7 pm on October 29th at the Greenville Campground. 

Officials say that during the jubilee, area businesses, groups, agencies, and creative campers will decorate their campsites and welcome trick-or-treaters into the campground.

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

MAN INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK NEAR ADVANCE

A single vehicle wreck over the weekend left one person injured near Fisk.

According to the Highway Patrol, 22 year old Matthew Bollinger, of Advance, struck a tree and overturned off of Highway 51, shortly after 2 am Saturday morning.

Officials say the wreck occurred two miles north of Fisk.

Bollinger suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital. 

OVER TWO MONTH LONG GUARDRAIL PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY

Route 34 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane over the next two months as contractor crews perform guardrail upgrades.  

The section of roadway to be impacted by the project is located from Route 49 in Piedmont to County Road 219 near Silva.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Saturday, December 31st.  

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE TO FORCE DELAYS THIS WEEK IN RIPLEY COUNTY

Route 142 in Ripley County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction for part of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance. 

Officials say that the bridge is located from County Road 142W-1 to County Road 142W-2 near Ponder.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Wednesday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. 

Friday, October 21, 2022

DROUGHT CONDITIONS WORSEN IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Drought conditions continue to worsen across Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas.

According to the latest United States Drought Monitor, most of our area is now classified as being in a severe drought.

Officials with the National Weather Service are hoping that a weather system coming early next week will bring some much needed rainfall to the area. 

PB SCHOOL OFFICIALS STRESS SAFETY DURING NATIONAL SCHOOL BUS SAFETY WEEK

This week is National School Bus Safety week and officials at the Poplar Bluff School District are taking extra steps to ensure the safety of students.

Poplar Bluff Transportation Director Jon McKinney tells KWOC News that bus drivers have been reviewing bus safety with student riders and performing emergency bus evacuation drills this week.

Additionally, McKinney says that they are looking into installing crossing-arm stop cameras on district buses in the near future to increase student safety.

Video footage from drivers who go through the bus stop sign while students are being dropped off or crossing roadways could then be submitted to area authorities.

McKinney also thanked all of the Poplar Bluff R-1 bus drivers and aides for all they do to ensure the safety of the students.

DONIPHAN SOFTBALL TEAM FALLS IN STATE QUARTERFINAL

Doniphan has been eliminated from the Class 3 State Softball tournament.

The Donettes Softball team traveled to the St. Louis area on Thursday for their state quarterfinal matchup against Westminster Christian Academy. 

Westminster came away with a 1-0 victory thanks to an error on the Donettes in the 5th inning. Doniphan finishes their season with a 17-10 record.

ELK STRUCK AND KILLED BY A VEHICLE IN STODDARD COUNTY

An elk was struck and killed by a vehicle last week in Stoddard County.

According to authorities, the animal was hit on US Highway 60, east of Highway 25, in the early morning hours of October 13th.

No injuries were reported for the occupants of the vehicle.

Matt Wilkerson with the Missouri Department of Transportation says that animals are moving more this time of year as the temperature cools down. Motorists should be extra careful and watch for animals while driving. 

CORNING HARVEST FESTIVAL SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

The city of Corning will be coming together this weekend.

The Corning Harvest Festival has been scheduled for 9 am to 5 pm on Saturday at Wynn Park. There will be an arts and craft show, carnival, car show, BBQ cook off, and more.

Anyone wanting to participate in the 5K run and walk should preregister on the Corning Harvest Festival Facebook page. 

HUNTER EDUCATION CLASS TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF

A hunter education class will be held next week in Poplar Bluff.

The Hunter Education Fall Skills Session has been scheduled for Monday, October 24th at the Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center from 5 to 9 pm. Students can sign in beginning at 4:30 pm.

The event is open to the public at no cost, but students must preregister online by October 23rd. You can preregister online at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/ 

Class participants must bring proof of completion of the knowledge portion of the hunter’s education course along with a copy of their birth certificate or some other proof of age if under the age of 16. 

Anyone with questions is asked to send them to CharlesKinsey@pb.k12.mo.us.

TODAY IS BUCKLE UP, PHONE DOWN DAY IN MISSOURI

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

Officials are encouraging motorists across the state to take two simple actions to save lives on the state’s highways – fasten their seat belts and put their phones down while driving.

Missouri’s 2022 Seat Belt Usage Survey showed 89 percent of vehicle occupants use a seat belt, matching the highest rate the state has ever recorded.

But the unbuckled 11 percent make up a majority of the state’s roadway fatalities, which reached a 15 year high in 2021.

Cellphone use continues to be one of the most concerning behaviors for all roadway users. In 2021, over half of the distracted driving fatalities in Missouri claimed the life of someone besides the distracted driver.

REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS ON HIGHWAY 61 NEAR SIKESTON FOR THE REST OF THE MONTH

Route 61 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction lane for the rest of this month as contractor crews perform pavement repairs. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway is located from Larcel Drive to County Road 824 near Sikeston.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Monday, October 31st.  

Thursday, October 20, 2022

BURN BAN ENACTED FOR WAYNE COUNTY AND WAPPAPELLO LAKE

Another Southeast Missouri county has chosen to restrict burning with the ongoing drought plaguing the area 

Wayne County Clerk Kent Sisco tells KWOC News that the Wayne County Commission has enacted a burn ban until further notice.

The ban includes all outdoor burning in the county.

The US Army Corps of Engineers has also announced a burn ban for Wappapello Lake campgrounds, picnic areas, and remote accesses.

Corps officials say that the ban prohibits the use of charcoal or wood fires. Visitors to public recreation areas and campgrounds on Wappapello Lake may use attended gas grills or stove tops. All forms of fire in remote access areas are prohibited.

In Poplar Bluff, a recent fire spread to a structure and caused damage. PB Fire Department officials are encouraging people not to burn during the enhanced fire danger conditions.

Officials are also reminding motorists to not throw used cigarettes onto the ground as all it takes is a small spark that can then rapidly spread to a big fire due to dry, breezy weather conditions. 

A red flag warning will be in effect today for much of Southeast Missouri. 

NEELYVILLE SOFTBALL TEAM ELIMINATED IN STATE SECTIONALS

The Neelyville Lady Tigers softball team quest for a state championship has come to an end.

The Lady Tigers were defeated by the Marion C. Early Lady Panthers 3-2 on Wednesday in the Class 1 State Sectionals.

In Class 3, the Doniphan Donettes will start their state tournament campaign today. Doniphan will be traveling to Town and Country to face the Westminster Christian Academy Wildcats in the Class 3 State Quarterfinals. First pitch is set for 3 pm. 

In the MSHSAA Class 3 Girls State Golf Championship at Columbia Country Club, Poplar Bluff’s Olivia Thetford and Rhyan Waddell both shot a 91 on Day 2. This caused Thetford to finish in 22nd and Waddell in 33rd out of the 85 player field for the tournament.

AREA FIREFIGHTERS TO SHOW THEIR SKILLS DURING THE PBFD FALL CLASSIC

Area firefighters will be converging on Poplar Bluff this weekend to show off their skills.

The Poplar Bluff Fire Department Fall Classic is scheduled to begin at 2 pm on Saturday at the Black River Coliseum.

The Fall Classic is a firefighter’s challenge competition open to firefighters all over Southeast Missouri to raise funds for the Walter Weaver Memorial Scholarship.

Firefighters from the Poplar Bluff Fire Department created this obstacle-style event to showcase skills firefighters' use in day-to-day operations.

Fall Classic T-shirts will also be available for $20 at the event.

Prior to the event, there will also be a free kid’s zone in the BRC Parking lot from 11 am to 2 pm, featuring a kids course, bounce houses, tool demonstrations, food trucks, and more. 

MODOT CREWS TO BE TRAINING FOR WINTER WEATHER TODAY

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

The Missouri Department of Transportation will hold its annual statewide winter operations drill beginning this morning.

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

In rural areas, crews will deploy after 8 a.m. In urban areas, the drill will not begin until after 9 a.m.

The exercise should be completed by 3 p.m.

Officials say that with high turnover rates and many positions still open, driver training is more critical than ever.

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. For more information, contact Teresea Allen at 573-718-6710.

RAILROAD CROSSING REPAIRS TO CAUSE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF HAYTI ROAD

Missouri Route 84 in Pemiscot County will be closed for the rest of this week as contractor crews perform railroad repairs.

The section of roadway to be closed is located between North Chestnut Street and Railroad Street in Hayti. 

Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow, from noon to 5 p.m. each day.

Wednesday, October 19, 2022

SUSPECT OPENS FIRE ON OFFICERS IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS, ONE OFFICER INJURED

A suspect is dead after opening fire on two police officers in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Paragould Police Department, the officers were at an area home on South Rockingchair Road following a report of an unknown person. When the officers arrived, a male subject opened fire. The officers returned fire, striking the subject, who died at the scene.

One of the officers was hit by gunfire and transported to a Memphis hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

The Arkansas State Police is investigating the incident.

In an unrelated incident, approximately six minutes after the previous report, a 911 call was received of a domestic disturbance with possible weapons in Paragould. The Greene County Sheriff’s Department responded to the scene and found a man deceased in the residence.

The Paragould Police Department is investigating the death and Captain Brad Snyder says that there is no risk of danger to the public.

NEELYVILLE SOFTBALL TO PLAY IN STATE SECTIONALS TODAY

The Neelyville Lady Tigers will begin play in the state softball tournament today.

Neelyville will be taking on the Marion C. Early Lady Panthers this evening in Morrisville. First pitch for the state sectional game is scheduled for 5 pm.

The Lady Tigers are 29-4 on the season while averaging almost 11 runs per game. The Lady Panthers are 23-7 this year.

A win would see Neelyville advance to the State Quarterfinals, where they would take on either the Weaubleau Tigers or Vienna Eagles. 

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTY RESTRICTS OUTDOOR BURNING

A Southeast Missouri county is putting a stop to outdoor burning for the immediate future.

The New Madrid County Board of Commissioners and Department of Emergency Management has issued a county wide burn ban for all cities, towns, and municipalities until further notice.

Officials say that the ban includes all residential outdoor burning. 

ONE PERSON SHOT DURING ARMED ROBBERY

One person was shot during an attempted armed robbery in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Paragould Police Department, officers responded to a call concerning a shooting at around 12:30 pm Tuesday. At the scene, officers located a male subject with a gunshot wound to the upper torso. 

The man was medically tended to by officers and EMS prior to being airlifted to a Memphis hospital. 

An investigation into the incident is ongoing by the Paragould Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Division. 

PUBLIC MEETING TO BE HELD IN BUTLER COUNTY TO DISCUSS NEXT PHASE OF FUTURE I-57

A public meeting will be held today in Butler County to discuss upgrades to US Route 67.

The Missouri Department of Transportation will hold the meeting from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Neelyville High School cafeteria.

The proposed project includes upgrading Route 67 to interstate standards from the Route 160/158 interchange south of Poplar Bluff, Missouri to the Missouri/Arkansas state line. The entire project limits are broken down into five phases: Phases 1A and 1B, as well as Phases 2 through 4.

The public meeting will focus on options for future access at Neelyville as well as Phase 3, which includes upgrading a five-mile section of Route 67 to four lanes from County Road 352 to near County Road 272.

The public meeting will be open house style, and visitors can stop-by anytime between 4 and 7 p.m. to discuss the details of the project with the project team.

ROAD WORK SCHEDULED FOR TODAY NEAR CAMPBELL

Route H in Dunklin County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs near Campbell.

According to officials, the work zone will be located from Route J to Route 53.

Work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  

Tuesday, October 18, 2022

RECORD LOW TEMPERATURES POSSIBLE TOMORROW MORNING IN POPLAR BLUFF

After a summer where multiple record high temperatures were broken in Poplar Bluff, the city could see a new record low temperature tomorrow morning.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, low temperatures are forecast to be around 26 degrees early tomorrow morning in Poplar Bluff.

This would match the city’s previous record low temperature for October 19th, which was set in 1925. 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER FALLS TO LOWEST POINT SINCE 2012

The Mississippi River fell to the lowest it has been in a decade over the weekend.

According to the National Weather Service, at New Madrid the river was observed at 5.45 feet below the low stage at 7 pm on Saturday.

Officials say that while these observations are still preliminary, it appears the river has fallen to a record low water level, which was last set in 2012.

The water level went up over a foot on Sunday, but is projected to fall again throughout this week. 

MAN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE FOR A WRECK NEAR VAN BUREN

A man was flown from the scene of a single vehicle wreck Sunday near Van Buren.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 42 year old Jeffery Anglin, of Poplar Bluff, was driving on US Highway 60 when his vehicle traveled into the median, became airborne, and overturned.

Anglin was ejected from the vehicle and suffered serious injuries. Officials say that he was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.  

MOTORCYCLE STRIKES DEER IN STODDARD COUNTY, ONE INJURED

A Dexter man was injured over the weekend after his motorcycle struck a deer.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 51 year old Michael McMunn was riding a motorcycle on Highway H in Stoddard County when he hit the animal.

The motorcycle then ran off the left side of the roadway.

McMunn suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Dexter area hospital. 

ARKANSAS POLICE TO CRACK DOWN ON TEXTING WHILE DRIVING THIS WEEK

State officials in Arkansas say that police across the state will be cracking down on people using their cell phones while driving.

Beginning this week, Arkansas law enforcement agencies will intensify their patrols aimed at drivers violating the Arkansas texting while driving law. According to state officials, law enforcement agencies across the state have pledged their support toward enforcing the law and educating violators.

During calendar year 2020, six percent of people killed in teen driving crashes died while operating their vehicle and being distracted.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Route KK in Stoddard County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The closure will be located from Route 114 to County Road 732 near Essex.

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

Monday, October 17, 2022

NEW CHIEF OF POLICE CHOSEN FOR POPLAR BLUFF

A new head of the Poplar Bluff Police Department has been selected.

City Manager Matt Winters tells KWOC News that Mike McClain has been appointed as the new Chief of Police for the Police Department.

McClain has served as Interim Police Chief since the retirement of Danny Whitely earlier this year.

McClain was first hired as a patrolman with the Poplar Bluff Police Department in March of 1995 and has served as Deputy Chief since September 2019.

Winters tells us that McClain has demonstrated excellent leadership abilities while serving as Deputy and interim chief. He is also respected by the members of the PBPD and by the other department heads within the city.

McClain will be sworn in on Monday during the City Council meeting. 

VAN BUREN MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON FOR THE SHOOTING OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

A Van Buren man has been sentenced in connection to the shooting of two law enforcement officers in 2019.

James Cummings, of Van Buren, was convicted in July on four counts of assault 1st degree and armed criminal action stemming from the shooting of a Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper and a Carter County Deputy in August of 2019.

The officers had been attempting to serve an eviction notice at a residence when they were struck by gunfire coming from inside the residence.

Both officers survived the incident

On Thursday, Cummings was sentenced to life in prison on each of the four counts of assault and 50 years for each of the armed criminal action charges. 

TWO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AGENCIES AWARDED GRANTS FROM USDA

Two Southeast Missouri agencies have been awarded grant money for the United States Department of Agriculture.

The Carter County Health Center is receiving a $231,477 grant to assist with funds to hire a Licensed Practical Nurse dedicated to testing and vaccination, which will double the health center's vaccination capacity.

This investment will also be used to purchase additional medical supplies, vaccines, and tests to ensure they have sufficient resources now and in the future.

The Bootheel Cultural & Performing Arts Center is receiving a $54,600 grant under the nutrition assistance portion of the Emergency Rural Health Care Grant to purchase a walk-in-cooler, forklift, enclosed trailer, and a battery powered pallet lift for the Center.

Officials say these items will assist the entity with the increased need for their food bank operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR FILLS VACANCIES IN TWO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTIES

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has filled vacancies in two Southeast Missouri counties.

Governor Parson announced on Friday that Beverly Finch, of Patterson, has been appointed as the Wayne County Assessor.

Finch has served as a Real Estate Clerk with the Wayne County Assessor's Office since 2004. Prior to joining the Assessor's Office, she worked for the Wayne County Sheriff's Office.

In Mississippi County, Melissa Davis, of Charleston, was appointed as the County Public Administrator.

Davis has nearly 18 years of experience as a social worker in long term care facilities.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO FORCE CLOSURE OF STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TODAY

Route HH in Stoddard County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

According to officials, the closure will be located from Route 153 to Route CC near Baker.

Work is scheduled to take place today from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.  

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

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

The section of Route J to be reduced is located from County Road 215 to County Road 109.

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

Friday, October 14, 2022

TWO DEAD FOLLOWING HEAD ON COLLISION NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

Two men have died in connection to a head on collision Thursday morning.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the wreck occurred at around 6:40 am on Butler County Road 441, one mile west of Poplar Bluff.

A vehicle, driven by 26 year old James Fuller, of Poplar Bluff, reportedly crossed the center line and struck another vehicle head on.

Both Fuller and the driver of the second vehicle, identified as 67 year old James Osborn, of Poplar Bluff, were transported to an area hospital where they were pronounced dead. 

GREENVILLE WINS OFC BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

Greenville is celebrating an OFC championship.

The Bears defeated Doniphan Thursday afternoon 12-2 to win the 2022 OFC Baseball tournament at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

Greenville dominated their games during the tournament, winning each game by at least 10 runs and only allowing two runs over the entire tournament.

In the Third Place Game, Twin Rivers defeated Naylor 13-3.

Neelyville is also celebrating today after claiming a district championship in Softball. The Lady Tigers defeated Norwood 10-0 to win the Class 1 – District 1 Championship. Neelyville will begin sectional play on October 19th. 

NO FOUL PLAY SUSPECTED AFTER SKULL FOUND IN BUTLER COUNTY

Officials say that no foul play is suspected after a skull was found in Butler County.

According to Butler County Coroner Jim Akers, the skull was found earlier this month in the Black River.

Akers says that the skull has been identified as a human skull and appears to be a medical specimen used for educational purposes.

The Coroner’s Office has opened an investigation and requested the assistance of outside specialists.  

Akers added that this is an unusual discovery, however it is not a homicide investigation and no foul play is suspected.

The Coroner’s Office is searching for a lab to attempt to analyze the DNA, but due to the age and condition of the skull, it will be a lengthy process.

PBRMC TO HOST BREAST CANCER AWARENESS EVENT TODAY

The Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center will be hosting a breast cancer awareness and informational event today.

The free Pinktober Lunch and Learn will be from noon to 1 pm today at the Westwood Event Center in Poplar Bluff.

There will be an expert panel providing information about breast cancer and taking questions from the audience. There will also be food available as well as giveaways.

Attendees will also be able to schedule a mammogram while at the event.

For more information, visit the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center Facebook page. 

SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED FOR THE 2022 TIGER FEST IN NEELYVILLE 

The schedule has been announced for Tiger Fest 2022 this weekend at Neelyville High School.

Officials say that the event will begin at 10 am on Saturday, October 15th.

There will be the annual parade, in addition to a talent show, games, a Halloween costume contest, and Mr. and Mrs. Tiger Fest 2022.

For more information visit the Neelyville R-4 schools page on Facebook or call Jennifer Barker at 573-989-3815.

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON GUN AND DRUG CHARGES IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

A New Madrid man has been taken into custody on gun and drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 54 year old Carl Davis was arrested Wednesday night on felony charges of unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful misuse of a firearm with narcotics, and possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

Following the arrest, Davis was held at the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Office. 

MOBILITY IMPAIRED MODERN GUN DEER HUNT TO BE CONDUCTED THIS WEEKEND AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE

The US Army Corps of Engineers will be conducting a mobility impaired modern gun deer hunt this weekend at Wappapello Lake.

Corps officials tell KWOC News that the hunt will be conducted on Saturday and Sunday at five locations spread across the Wappapello Lake project. All areas will be properly signed to warn anyone walking a trail or accessing areas from parking lots.

During the hunt, multiple areas will be closed, including the Archery Range, Corps Road 33 at Wetfork, the Johnson Tract Trail, and below the dam area.

For more information, call the Wappapello Lake Project Office at 573-222-8562. 

Thursday, October 13, 2022

GREENVILLE AND DONIPHAN TO PLAY TODAY FOR OFC BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

The 2022 Ozark Foothills Conference Baseball Tournament will come to an end today.

Greenville will be facing Doniphan at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff for the OFC Championship. First pitch is scheduled for 3:30 pm.

The Third Place game will see Naylor take on Twin Rivers, beginning at 1 pm this afternoon.

Both the Championship and Third Place game will be broadcast live on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page at facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC and the River Radio Youtube page at youtube.com/RiverRadioPB. 

CITY OF POPLAR BLUFF RECOGNIZED AS A TRUE STARS AND STRIPES CITY

A Southeast Missouri city has been recognized for its dedication to America.

The City of Poplar Bluff has been named a true Stars and Stripes City for “its ongoing embrace and dedication to the principles of informed citizenship, commitment, and service in our democratic society”.

Jim Martin with The Stars & Stripes National Museum, Library, and Learning Center presented Poplar Bluff City Manager Matt Winters with the proclamation Wednesday morning. 

POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL TO HOST PARADE FOR VETERANS DAY

Poplar Bluff area veterans are being invited to participate in a parade for Veteran’s Day.

The Poplar Bluff Middle School is hosting a Veteran’s Day Parade on November 11th. Veterans who want to be involved will get to drive through a parade loop around the PBMS campus to be recognized and cheered by students.

The Parade will begin at 9:15 am and the veterans should arrive at the parking lot of the Highland Drive Church of Christ at 8:30 am.

Only veterans, students, and school staff will be allowed on campus for the event.

Any veteran that would like to join the parade is asked to call 573-785-5566 and ask to speak to a counselor or go to the Poplar Bluff Middle School Facebook page. 

HUNTER EDUCATION CLASS TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF

A hunter education class will be held this month in Poplar Bluff.

The Hunter Education Fall Skills Session has been scheduled for Monday, October 24th at the Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center from 5 to 9 pm. Students can sign in beginning at 4:30 pm.

The event is open to the public at no cost, but students must preregister online by October 23rd. You can preregister online at https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/. 

Class participants must bring proof of completion of the knowledge portion of the hunter’s education course along with a copy of their birth certificate or some other proof of age if under the age of 16.

Anyone with questions is asked to send them to CharlesKinsey@pb.k12.mo.us. 

FALL BUFF UP THE BLUFF COMING THIS WEEKEND

The 2022 Fall Buff up the Bluff event is set for this weekend.

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

Henson’s Transfer Station on the Industrial Park Bypass will be accepting items from 8 am to 3 pm. Any yard waste, leaves, or limbs will still need to be taken to the east side site. Proof of Poplar Bluff residency will be required at both sites.

Today is the last day to arrange for curbside pickup of items for residents 65 years old and older. To make the reservations, call 573-686-8622.

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

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO FORCE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF STODDARD COUNTY ROAD

Route CC in Stoddard County will be temporarily closed as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

The section of Route CC to be closed is located from Route 114 to Route A near Baker.

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

Wednesday, October 12, 2022

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE DEPARTMENT TO OPEN NEW STATION THIS MORNING

The grand opening of the new Poplar Bluff Police Department headquarters is today.

According to police officials, the new facility, located at 911 North Shelby Road, will open at 8 am. 

All services previously provided at the Poplar Street location will now be done at the headquarters on Shelby Road. 

CHAMPIONSHIP GAME SET AT OFC BASEBALL TOURNAMENT

The Championship game is set for the 2022 Ozark Foothills Conference Baseball Tournament.

Greenville will be facing Doniphan on Thursday at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff for the OFC Championship. First pitch is scheduled for 3:30 pm.

The Bears advanced to the finals following their win Tuesday over Naylor, 13-0. The Dons defeated Twin Rivers 6-4 to secure their place in the championship game.

Naylor and Twin Rivers will feature in the third place game, which is scheduled to begin at 1 pm on Thursday.

Both the third place and championship game will be broadcast live on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page at facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC and the River Radio Youtube page at youtube.com/RiverRadioPB.

POPLAR BLUFF ROBOTICS CLASS RECEIVES FIVE THOUSAND DOLLAR DONATION

A Georgia based philanthropy group has donated thousands of dollars to a Southeast Missouri robotics class.

The Montgomery Family Foundation has funded more than $5,000 in equipment enhancements for the Poplar Bluff High School Robotics Program to replace second-hand tools.

Officials say that the donation helps make sure that the Iron Mules are not at a competitive disadvantage against larger organizations this school year.

PARADE HIGHLIGHTS 2022 BROSELEY HOMECOMING

Multiple events, including the annual parade, are planned for the 2022 Broseley homecoming this weekend.

The parade is scheduled to begin at 10 am on Saturday, with participants lining up beginning at 9 am at Twin Rivers High School.

Prior to the parade, the Broseley Senior Community Center will be hosting breakfast starting at 7 am.

There will also be live music, a 50/50 drawing, and a silent auction. 

BRIDGE REPAIRS FORCE CLOSURE OF STODDARD COUNTY ROAD

Route V in Stoddard County is being closed this week as contractor crews perform bridge repairs.

According to MoDOT, the closure is located between County Road 234 and County Road 232. 

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

ROUTE U IN STODDARD COUNTY TO BE REDUCED FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

Route U in Stoddard County will be reduced both today and tomorrow as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

The section of roadway involved in the repairs is located from Route H to County Road 651 near Bernie.

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