Thursday, October 19, 2023

HUMAN REMAINS FOUND IN WAYNE COUNTY

Human remains were found last week in Wayne County.

Wayne County Sheriff Dean Finch tells KWOC News that the remains were initially discovered on Friday in the Mill Springs area. Further searches this week uncovered more remains in the area.

Finch says the remains have been identified as belonging to Patrick Chapman, who was reported missing in May of 2020. He was 34 at the time of his disappearance.

The Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and volunteers from the Clearwater and Piedmont Fire Departments all assisted in the searches.

Finch added that Chapman's remains are being sent to an anthropologist in St. Louis for further investigation.

PURSUIT LEADS TO ARREST IN RURAL BUTLER COUNTY

One person has been taken into custody following a multistate pursuit on Wednesday.

According to the Clay County Sheriff’s Department, an officer tried to pull over a vehicle for not having a license plate at around 9:45 am Wednesday morning on Highway 67 North, near Corning, however the subject fled the scene.

The pursuit continued into Butler County and eventually came to an end at 10:03 am in a driveway in the Stringtown area.

36 year old Ricky Wilkerson Jr., of Harville, was arrested and is facing charges out of Clay County of felony fleeing, improper vehicle license, no insurance, possession of a controlled substance - marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Butler County Chief Deputy Wes Popp tells KWOC News that Wilkerson is also facing charges out of Butler County for failure to yield to an emergency vehicle and resisting arrest by fleeing.

AUTOPSY CONDUCTED ON HUMAN REMAINS FOUND IN BOLLINGER COUNTY

Updating a story we have been following for you, an autopsy has been conducted on human remains that were discovered earlier this month in Bollinger County.

According to Sheriff Casey Graham, on September 29th, his office received a report that Leah Lamb was missing. Lamb has a registered address in St. Louis, but was believed to be residing in Bollinger County.

A search was conducted on October 12th at a 225 acre property in the county that resulted in the discovery of human remains.

Graham says that an autopsy was performed on the remains earlier this week. The remains were confirmed to be that of a female, and it was found that the remains did not have any signs of traumatic injuries or fractures.

The Bollinger County Coroner’s Office identified those remains as those of Lamb. Graham says that for further confirmation and complete documentation purposes, evidence was collected during the autopsy to compare to Ms. Lamb’s DNA which is already on file through the State of Missouri.

He added that at this time, the missing person investigation pertaining to Lamb is considered open pending the results of DNA testing. However, no foul play is suspected.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING SHOOTING IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Authorities in New Madrid County are investigating a reported shooting from earlier this week.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, on Tuesday, deputies were dispatched to a location in Morehouse after someone reported they heard an argument followed by a gunshot.

At the scene, deputies located a gunshot victim who was transported to an area hospital.

Officials say that a search warrant was obtained for the suspect’s residence and deputies seized several items.

The names of the suspect and the victim have not been released.

MODOT CREWS TO BE TRAINING FOR WINTER WEATHER TODAY

Do not 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 SCHEDULED FOR TODAY

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, call 573-718-4578.

ROAD CLOSED IN MADLEN DUE TO RAILROAD MAINTENANCE

A major road in Malden will be closed for the rest of this week so railroad crews can perform railroad maintenance.

According to authorities, the work zone is located on Route 25 between End and Harper Streets.

Officials say that work will be ongoing through 8 pm, Saturday night.

DONIPHAN STREET TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR UTILITY WORK

A Doniphan street is being closed today for utility work.

According to the Doniphan Police Department, utility crews are closing the 800 block of Grand Avenue today for the project.

No timetable was given for when the area would reopen and motorists are asked to watch for street signs and choose alternate routes if needed.

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

CHILD TAKEN TO AREA HOSPITAL FOLLOWING HIT AND RUN IN POPLAR BLUFF

A Poplar Bluff child was taken to an area emergency room Tuesday morning following a reported hit and run incident.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, a juvenile was on the way to a bus stop on West Harper Street at approximately 8 am when the child was struck by a suspected red SUV. The SUV then left the scene.

The child was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital and later flown to a St. Louis hospital. The severity of the child’s injuries has not been released.

Dr. Aaron Cornman, superintendent of the Poplar Bluff School District, tells KWOC News “Our hearts go out to our little mule that was the victim of a hit and run. We pray for a speedy recovery. It is our hope that all families will visit with their children about safe habits when walking to and waiting on the school bus.”

Images released by the Poplar Bluff Police Department show what is believed to be the suspect vehicle.

Anyone who has information on who the vehicle belongs to is asked to contact Detective Dan Mustain at 573-686-8632.

PIEDMONT WOMAN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A MONDAY EVENING CRASH NEAR WILLIAMSVILLE

A woman was flown from the scene of a crash Monday evening in Wayne County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 55 year old Andrea Brantley, of Piedmont, was driving a UTV on County Road 361 when the vehicle ran off the side of the roadway and overturned.

Brantley was not wearing a safety device and was flown to a St. Louis hospital with serious injuries.

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

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE MUSIC DEPARTMENT TO HOST FALL SHOWCASE ON OCTOBER 24TH

The Three Rivers College Music Department is hosting a fall showcase this month.

According to school officials, TRC vocal and instrumental students will perform diverse solos and ensembles during the showcase. There will also be a “mini-musical” performed by the premier student musical theater ensemble.

The Fall Showcase has been scheduled for 7 pm on October 24th at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

SHO-ME BAND PERCUSSION SECTION TAKES HOME TOP PRIZE AT COMPETITION

The Poplar Bluff drumming corps has been recognized for their performance at a recent competition.

The Poplar Bluff High School Sho-Me Marching Band competed in late September at the Wright City Marching Invitational.

The band’s percussion section was matched against 10 other schools during the invitational, winning first in both the indoor and outdoor marching festivals. Band Director Stephen Winters says that the percussion section received top ratings from a panel of three judges.

The Sho-Me Marching band as a whole placed second overall in its division during the invitational.

DONIPHAN INTERSECTION TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR UTILITY WORK

A Doniphan intersection is being closed today for utility work.

According to the Doniphan Police Department, the closure is located at the intersection of Spring and Kegler Streets.

No timetable was given for when the intersection would reopen and motorists are asked to watch for street signs and choose alternate routes if needed.

ROUTE 162 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY TO BE REDUCED FOR TWO WEEKS BEGINNING TODAY

Route 162 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction for a couple of weeks as contractor crews perform erosion work.

According to officials, the section of roadway being reduced is located between County Road 263 and Railroad Street near Gideon.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Wednesday, November 1st.

Tuesday, October 17, 2023

FORMER POPLAR BLUFF PASTOR AND BUSINESSMAN ARRESTED ON RAPE AND SODOMY CHARGES

A former Poplar Bluff area pastor and businessman has been arrested in a rape cold case.

A warrant was issued on Friday for 55 year old James Paul Hoyt, of Poplar Bluff, on charges of forcible rape and two counts of forcible sodomy.

According to Detective Shonna Grobe with the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the charges stem from numerous incidents that allegedly occurred between the Summer of 2001 and Fall of 2002.

The probable cause statement for the case says that Hoyt made multiple allegations in a voluntary interview with Grobe earlier this month that were later disproven.

Hoyt surrendered himself to authorities on Monday and posted a $100,000 bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, November 6th in a Butler County Courtroom.

NAME RELEASED OF SUBJECT ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY STABBING

Updating a story we brought to you over the weekend, the name has been released of the man arrested in connection to a Stoddard County stabbing.

According to Captain Cory Mills with the Dexter Police Department, shortly after 4 am on Saturday, officers responded to a stabbing at a Dexter business. The victim was stabbed multiple times and treated for non life threatening injuries to his hands and arm.

According to a probable cause affidavit, the victim told police that the suspect began swinging the knife at him for no apparent reason.

A subject matching the suspect’s description was found by an officer walking on Elm Street. When the officer made contact with the suspect, identified as 32 year old Joseph Michael Frye, of Dexter, the suspect attempted to flee on foot.

Frye was apprehended a short time later. A knife was attached to Frye’s belt at the time and there also appeared to be dried blood drops on Frye’s pants. Frye reportedly admitted to stabbing the victim to officers.

Frye has been charged with first degree assault and armed criminal action and is currently being held at the Stoddard County Jail on no bond.

MAN WAVING GUN SHOT AND KILLED IN SIKESTON

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating an officer involved shooting in Southeast Missouri.

Chief Jim McMillen with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC News that shortly before 9 pm Saturday night, officers were dispatched to an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting on Murray Lane in reference to a man who had a gun and was threatening to shoot himself.

When officers arrived they were able to get the other people in the meeting out of the building, however the man with the gun remained inside.

The subject waved the gun outside the building and started making threats before he was shot by an officer.

EMS personnel on scene quickly moved in and started life saving measures.

The subject, 68 year old George Holland, of Delta, was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead.

McMillen says that the officer that fired the shot has been placed on administrative leave per policy and the Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating the incident.

TWO ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO STOLEN TRAILER INVESTIGATION

Two people have been taken into custody in connection to a stolen trailer investigation in Southeast Missouri.

According to probable cause affidavits, shortly after 9 am on October 5th, a rural crimes investigator in Stoddard County was informed that a trailer had been stolen from the side of US Highway 60 near Essex.

The stolen trailer was located on County Road 706 being pulled by a black truck. When the officer activated his emergency lights, the truck sped off. During the pursuit the truck got stuck on a levee and two occupants fled on foot and escaped.

The subjects were later identified as 41 year old Adam Arden, of Morehouse, and 22 year old Gregory Barnes, of Advance.

Both subjects have since been taken into custody on Stoddard County warrants for stealing, resisting arrest by fleeing, and property damage 2nd degree.

Their bonds were each set at $25,000, cash only and both remain in custody at the Stoddard County Jail.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON ROUTE U IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

According to officials, the work zone will be located between Route H and Route 25 in the Bernie area.

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

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY

The West Outer Road in New Madrid County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The section of roadway involved in the project is located between Route 61 and County Road 635 near New Madrid.

Weather permitting, work will take place both today and tomorrow, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., each day.

Monday, October 16, 2023

MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO STABBING IN STODDARD COUNTY

A man has been taken into custody following an alleged stabbing in Dexter.

According to Captain Cory Mills with the Dexter Police Department, shortly after 4 am on Saturday, officers responded to a stabbing in the 300 Block of West Business Highway 60. The victim was stabbed multiple times and treated for non life threatening injuries.

An investigation into the incident led to the arrest of a 32 year old white male, who was taken into custody a short time later at the crime scene. He was held at the Dexter Police Department.

The name of the victim and suspect are not being released at this time, pending formal charges by the Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

DATES ANNOUNCED FOR 31st ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AUTO TOUR

Officials with the US Army Corps of Engineers have announced the dates for the 2023 Festival of Lights Auto Tour.

The 31st Annual Auto Tour will be held at the Redman Creek East Campground from November 24th through December 25th.

This event is being held in partnership with the Wappapello Lake Area Association, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and River Radio. It is supported by businesses, volunteers, churches, organizations, and the community.

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

NEELYVILLE SOFTBALL TO PLAY IN DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP GAME TODAY TODAY

The Neelyville Lady Tigers will play today for a spot in the state softball tournament.

Neelyville will be taking on Chaffee today in the Class 2, District 1 Final in Benton. The Lady Tigers defeated Kelly on Friday, 6-1 to advance to the District Finals.

In Class 3, number four seed Doniphan upset the top seed Monett Friday in the District 6 semifinals.

Doniphan will take on Cassville today in the District 6 Finals.

The first pitch for both district championship games is scheduled for 5 pm.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI DUO WINS STATE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP

A duo of students from Southeast Missouri are state tennis champions.

The team of Claire Bean and Handley McAtee from Kennett and Holcomb did not drop a set in state play on Friday and Saturday to claim the Class 1 State championship.

The pair claimed wins over Harrisonville, Palmyra, Chillicothe, and St. Michael the Archangel during the tournament, which was held in Springfield.

POPLAR BLUFF PARENTS MIGHT BE ELIGIBLE FOR UP TO $1,500 IN GRANT MONEY

Poplar Bluff parents might be eligible for grant money to help their children’s education.

According to Poplar Bluff School Officials, parents may be eligible to receive a one-time Missouri Close the Gap Grant of up to $1,500 for each student to use toward allowable educational services and products.

The grants are based on household income and can be used for such things as internet connectivity, tutoring, and more.

Officials say that applications are open through Wednesday, October 25th. You can find more information at Missouri.WithOdysseey.com.

CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR ROAD WORK IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Contracts have been awarded for road work in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, an over three million dollar contract was awarded last week to Pace Construction for resurfacing projects on a variety of routes.

One of the work zones will be located on Route ZZ in Dunklin County, between Route NN and the beginning of state maintenance.

The Commission also awarded a separate 2.2 million dollar contract to Pace Construction for resurfacing projects in Ripley, Madison, and other counties.

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

Friday, October 13, 2023

GREENVILLE WINS OFC BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

Greenville is celebrating another Ozark Foothills Conference championship.

The defending champion Bears defeated Twin Rivers Thursday afternoon 10-0 to win the 2023 OFC Baseball tournament at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

Greenville jumped out to an early lead, scoring three runs in the top of the first inning on their way to knocking out the top seed in the tournament.

In the Third Place Game, Naylor defeated East Carter 5-3.

HUMAN REMAINS FOUND DURING MISSING PERSON SEARCH IN BOLLINGER COUNTY

Human remains were found Thursday in Bollinger County.

According to Sheriff Casey Graham, on September 29th, his office received a report that Leah Lamb was missing. Lamb has a registered address in St. Louis, but was believed to be residing in Bollinger County.

In connection to the investigation, the Bollinger County Sheriff's Office served a search warrant at a 225 acre property in the county on Thursday and found human remains. Graham says that the identification of the remains is pending the results of an autopsy that will be conducted at a later date.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Bollinger County Coroner's Office, and the Missouri Region E Homeland Security Response Team assisted in the investigation.

We will keep following this story for you and bring you updates as they become available.

POPLAR BLUFF PARKS AND RECREATION TO KICK OFF HALLOWEEN SEASON WITH EVENT TODAY

The Halloween season will kick off today in Poplar Bluff.

Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation is hosting the Trunk or Treat Cruise In Night this evening from 5 to 9 pm.

The event will be along Main Street between Vine Street and Broadway in downtown Poplar Bluff.

There will be plenty of candy for kids, along with food trucks, music, and numerous cars on display.

For more information, call 573-686-8645.

DONIPHAN CITY WIDE YARD SALE SET FOR SATURDAY

A Doniphan tradition is returning this weekend.

The Doniphan Fall City Wide Yard Sale is scheduled for 8 am to 3 pm this Saturday.

The event will feature vendors, food trucks, sales, and more.

For more information, contact Chasity Mathis at 573-996-2623.

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.

FALL BUFF UP THE BLUFF COMING ON SATURDAY

The 2023 Fall Buff up the Bluff event is coming up this weekend.

The citywide clean up event has been scheduled for Saturday, October 14th.

Henson’s Transfer Station on the Industrial Park Bypass will be accepting items from 8 am to 3 pm. Proof of Poplar Bluff residency will be required.

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

SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED FOR THE 2023 TIGER FEST IN NEELYVILLE

The schedule has been announced for Tiger Fest 2023 this weekend at Neelyville High School.

Officials say that the event will begin at 10 am on Saturday, October 14th

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

For more information visit the Neelyville R-4 schools page on Facebook or call 573-989-3815, extension 3.

RAILROAD REPAIRS TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF WAYNE COUNTY ROAD TODAY

Route 34 in Wayne County will be closed today so crews can perform railroad repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway being closed is located from County Road 451 to County Road 459 in Leeper.

Weather permitting, work will be performed today between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Thursday, October 12, 2023

GREENVILLE AND TWIN RIVERS TO PLAY TODAY FOR OFC BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

The 2023 Ozark Foothills Conference Baseball Tournament will come to an end today.

Number two seed Greenville will be facing top seed Twin Rivers today at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff for the OFC Championship. First pitch is scheduled for 2 pm.

The Third Place game will see Naylor take on East Carter, beginning at noon.

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

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING TWO VEHICLE CRASH NEAR MOREHOUSE

A Malden man has died following a multi vehicle crash in New Madrid County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred shortly before 6:30 am Wednesday, when a vehicle failed to yield at the intersection of US Highway 60 and Route E, and then struck another vehicle.

The driver of the second vehicle, 23 year old Steven Childers II, of Malden, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the first vehicle, 19 year old Gabriel Massey, of Sikeston, suffered moderate injuries and was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

POPULAR STREAMING SHOW TO FEATURE POPLAR BLUFF RESTAURANT

A popular internet streaming show will be highlighting a Poplar Bluff Restaurant.

America’s Best Restaurants will be in Poplar Bluff on October 20th to do a feature on La Torcia Brick Oven Pizza.

The crew will be filming inside the pizzeria from 3 to 6 pm.

La Torcia Brick Oven Pizza general manager Jon Sullivan says that he and his crew have worked hard to make sure every customer has the best experience and food and that they are excited to get to show this to the world.

Once completed, the program will be aired on the America’s Best Restaurants Facebook and Youtube pages.

2023 FISK FALL FESTIVAL COMING UP THIS WEEKEND

The Fisk community will be coming together for their annual fall festival this weekend.

The 2023 Fisk Fall Festival will begin at 9 am on Saturday at the Fisk Park and Pavilion.

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

For more information, call 573-718-3155.

TEMPORARY BENEFIT INCREASE EXTENDED TO NEXT SEPTEMBER FOR MISSOURI WIC PARTICIPANTS

Participants in Missouri’s WIC program will have more time to take advantage of extended benefits.

According to state officials, the temporary increase of the Cash Value Benefit for Fruit and Vegetable Purchases has been extended through September of next year.

The new monthly amounts will be $26 for child participants, $47 for pregnant and postpartum participants, $52 for breastfeeding participants, and $78 for women exclusively breastfeeding multiples.

Eligible participants must contact their WIC local agency immediately to schedule an appointment to load the additional benefits on their eWIC card before redeeming any October benefits.

Participants who redeem any October benefits before receiving the increase will not receive the increase until November and must return to the local agency prior to November to update their eWIC card.

WIC is the Department of Health and Senior Services Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. Missouri WIC provides additional healthy fruits and vegetables for up to 60,000 women and children per month.

CHANGES ANNOUNCED FOR CDL TESTING IN MISSOURI

Changes are coming later this year to Commercial Driver License testing in Missouri.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the state is adopting a modernized testing standard effective December 4th. CDL examiners at all Patrol examination sites and all third-party examination sites will utilize the new testing procedure.

The changes include a more streamlined pre-trip examination and more efficient basic skills course. Those wishing to prepare for a CDL skills test administered December 4th or later should utilize the new CDL manual to learn applicable procedures, which is available on the Highway Patrol website.

The current testing procedures will remain in effect statewide until December 1st. Officials added that per federal guidelines, applicants must pass the pre-trip and basic skills using the same testing model.

If an applicant passes the pre-trip examination under the previous CDL testing procedure, they must pass the basic skills test using that same testing procedure to be eligible for the road test.

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

STUDENT FOUND WITH HANDGUN ON POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL CAMPUS

A Poplar Bluff High School student was found with a handgun on Tuesday.

Poplar Bluff R-1 Superintendent Dr. Aaron Cornman tells KWOC News that Tuesday morning a student made faculty aware of another student carrying a handgun.

Faculty worked swiftly to find the student and secure the handgun, which had two rounds in the magazine and none in the chamber.

The student told faculty that they were carrying the gun for protection because they had been threatened by an adult in the community.

The student was taken into custody by the PB School Resource Officer.

Cornman emphasized that there was never any danger to students or faculty and that the safety of everyone in the school district is his number one priority.

School officials are working with the juvenile office, school resource officer, and Poplar Bluff Police Department for the investigation.

CHAMPIONSHIP GAME SET AT OFC BASEBALL TOURNAMENT

The Championship game is set for the 2023 Ozark Foothills Conference Baseball Tournament.

Number two seed Greenville will be facing top seed Twin Rivers on Thursday at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff for the OFC Championship. First pitch is scheduled for 2 pm.

The Bears advanced to the finals following their win Tuesday over East Carter, 4-0. Twin Rivers defeated Naylor 3-1 to secure their place in the championship game.

East Carter and Naylor will feature in the third place game, which is scheduled to begin at noon on Thursday.

Both the third place and championship games 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.

OVER 16 THOUSAND DEER HARVESTED DURING NEW FIREARMS EARLY ANTLERLESS PORTION OF DEER SEASON

Hunters across Missouri took to the woods over the weekend for the state’s new firearms early antlerless portion of deer season.

According to preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation, hunters harvested 16,576 deer during the weekend.

Ripley County had the third highest harvest numbers in the state, with a total of 437 deer taken.

Ripley County only ranked behind Franklin County with 489 deer harvested and Howell County with 454.

The November firearms portion of deer season is set to begin on November 11th.

11 POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS CHOSEN FOR ALL-DISTRICT CHOIR

Numerous Poplar Bluff High School students have been chosen to participate in the All-District Choir concert in November.

According to school officials, a total of 11 PBHS students were selected for the All-District Choir concert, which will be held at 4 pm on Saturday, November 11th, at Cape Central High School.

During the audition, students were judged on sight-reading and songs they had prepared.

The students chosen in the freshman and sophomore section were Kaitlyn Penrod, soprano; Frances Nelson, alto; Jordan Hodge, tenor; and Cayden Innes and Avain Pettigrew, bass. Selected to perform in the junior and senior section were: Virginiagrace Vandewarker, alto; Ray Bourd, Gabriel Burke and Andrew Noble, tenor; and Elijah Bosch and Alex Keown, bass.

FORMER POPLAR BLUFF MULES BASEBALL PLAYER COMMITS TO PLAY FOR BIG 12 SCHOOL

A former Poplar Bluff High School baseball player has committed to play in the Big 12.

Kannon Carr announced this week that he has committed to play at the University of Kansas.

Carr has played at Jefferson College since his graduation from Poplar Bluff in 2022.

GREAT CENTRAL U.S. SHAKEOUT SCHEDULED FOR THIS MONTH

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

The drill is scheduled for October 19th 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.

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING ARMED ROBBERY IN FAIRDEALING

An investigation is underway following an armed robbery in Ripley County.

A video was released Monday showing a white male entering the Dollar General in Fairdealing and pulling a handgun on a cashier.

The suspect then fled the store with a bag full of items, including $306 in cash.

We have the video available on the KWOC Facebook page.

Anyone who has information regarding the identity of the subject in the video is asked to contact the Ripley County Sheriff's Office at 573-996-2129 or the Doniphan Police Department at 573-996-7124.

NAYLOR AND EAST CARTER ADVANCE TO OFC SEMIFINALS

The Ozark Foothills Conference baseball tournament continues today with the semi-finals at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

East Carter advanced to the semi-final round with a hard fought 4-3 victory over Clearwater. The win gets East Carter a noon matchup today with number two seed Greenville.

Naylor jumped out to an early lead over Neelyville before the Tigers stormed back in the top of the 5th inning. Naylor extended their lead in the bottom of the 5th and was able to pick up the victory 13-5.

Naylor punched their ticket to the semi-finals where they will take on top seed Twin Rivers. First pitch for that game is scheduled for 2 pm today.

Every game of the OFC baseball tournament, including the third place and championship games, 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.

DONIPHAN SCHOOL DISTRICT CANCELS REMAINDER OF FOOTBALL SEASON

The Doniphan Dons football season has come to an early end.

School officials announced on Monday that the remainder of the 2023 football season has been canceled. Officials say that the cancellation is due to low participation numbers for the team.

The Homecoming festivities and coronation will continue as scheduled this Friday night.

KENNETT WOMAN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A CRASH NEAR MOUNTAIN GROVE

A Kennett woman was seriously injured in a crash Monday morning in Wright County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Marsiah Nelson was driving eastbound on US Highway 60 when her vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway and struck a rock bluff.

The crash occurred at around 2:40 am, one half mile east of Mountain Grove.

Nelson suffered serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a Springfield hospital.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL AND JUNIOR HIGH BOTH PLACE IN TOP 5 AT REGIONAL COMPETITION

The Poplar Bluff High School and Junior High Cheerleading teams both placed in the top 5 during a recent competition in St. Louis.

On Sunday, both teams participated in the Missouri Cheerleading Coaches Association St. Louis Regional.

The High School Competitive Cheer team finished in 5th place in the Class 5A Small Division. The Junior High team finished in 4th place in the Junior High Division.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN MULTIPLE COUNTIES

Route 114 in Stoddard, New Madrid, and Scott Counties will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of Route 114 to be reduced is located from Route FF to Route CC near Buffington.

Weather permitting, work will take place both today and tomorrow from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

Monday, October 9, 2023

QUARTERFINALS OF OFC BASEBALL TOURNAMENT SET FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

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

Three Rivers College, in Poplar Bluff, will be hosting this year’s tournament, featuring six area schools.

The quarter-finals will be held today, starting off with East Carter vs. Clearwater at noon, followed by Naylor vs. Neelyville at 2 pm.

Number one seed Twin Rivers and Number two seed Greenville both earned byes into the second round.

All six games of the tournament, including 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.

VAN BUREN MAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING SHORT MOTORCYCLE PURSUIT IN POPLAR BLUFF

A subject was taken into custody Thursday following a short pursuit in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly after 3:30 pm, officers tried to stop a stolen motorcycle seen driving on South Westwood Boulevard.

The driver did not stop until the motorcycle fell over at West Maud Street.

The driver then attempted to flee on foot, but was caught a short distance away from the scene.

The driver, identified as 34 year old Curtis Dugas, of Van Buren, was taken into custody and lodged in the Butler County Jail on charges of tampering with a motor vehicle and resisting arrest.

ENTRIES NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR RIVER RADIO LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE

Parade lights will be shining bright in Downtown Poplar Bluff this December for the 2023 River Radio Lighted Christmas Parade.

Entries are now being accepted for the parade, which is scheduled for 6 pm on Friday, December 1st. 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.

PBHS UNIFIED CHAMPIONS TO HOST 5K FUNDRAISER THIS MONTH

A Poplar Bluff High School club will be hosting a 5k fundraiser later this month.

The PBHS Unified Champions will host a 5K and fun run beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, October 21st.

The run will begin at the Rodgers Theater on West Pine Street.

Registration is $30 per person and also includes a t-shirt.

Proceeds support PBHS Unified Champions, which aims to promote an all-inclusive school environment for students with intellectual disabilities seeking to play sports.

You can register by going here.

INVESTIGATION INTO THREATS ON FACEBOOK LEADS TO DRUG ARREST IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

An investigation into threats made on social media has led to the arrest of a Clay County man on drug charges.

According to Clay County Sheriff Ronnie Cole, on October 1st, the Sheriff’s Department was notified about a Facebook post that threatened violence with a handgun toward the general public traveling on Highway 211, northwest of Success.

The post was made by a man that lived in the Success area, who was also a convicted felon and on probation out of Missouri. Missouri Probation and Parole advised that they knew nothing about the subject living near Success and that he was not supposed to be in Arkansas.

A search was conducted at a residence on Highway 211, outside of Success, where officers found several recently fired empty .45 caliber shell casings in the yard and .45 caliber ammunition in the house, but no weapons. Officers also found several drug-related items in plain view inside the home.

One subject, 40 year old Alex Ross Shelton was arrested and is facing charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR COLUMBUS DAY

Driver examinations will not be available across Missouri today due to the holiday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed today in observance of Columbus Day.

Officials say that normal operations will resume on Tuesday.

Friday, October 6, 2023

TWIN RIVERS STUDENT TO PERFORM AT ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL IN LONDON, ENGLAND

A Southeast Missouri violin player will be crossing the Atlantic Ocean next year to play in London, England.

Twin Rivers High School Student Daisey Loyd, of Broseley, has played violin since she was seven years old. Last month she auditioned and was accepted into the Honors Orchestra to play in the Honors Performance Series in the Royal Festival Hall on July 28th, 2024.

The orchestra is made up of high school musicians from across the world.

In February of this year, Loyd played at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

Loyd tells KWOC News that she is preparing for what will be one of the greatest adventures she has ever been on. The experiences have taught her first-hand not to limit her dreams and to take every opportunity she can.

Loyd added that if it's meant to happen, God will provide a way.

EARLY ANTLERLESS PORTION OF FIREARMS DEER SEASON SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

The early antlerless portion of firearms deer season is set for this weekend.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, the segment is scheduled for today through Sunday, from one half hour before sunrise to one half hour after sunset each day.

There are numerous counties in Southeast Missouri which will not be included in the early or late antlerless portions including Butler, Carter, Dunklin, Iron, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Scott, Stoddard, and Wayne Counties.

The late antlerless portion of firearms deer season will be held between December 2nd and December 10th.

You can find more information online at mdc.mo.gov.

TWO COUNTERFEIT $50 DOLLAR BILLS PASSED AT POPLAR BLUFF STORE

There are reports of more counterfeit money in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on Wednesday, an employee at an area business reported that a customer passed counterfeit $50 bills at the store.

This happened on two separate occasions.

The suspect, whose identity was not released, has since been banned from the business.

FOUR INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY, IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH NEAR PARMA

Four people were injured in a single vehicle crash Thursday morning near Parma.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle was traveling on Highway 153, three miles north of Parma, when it ran off the left side of the roadway and overturned.

The driver, identified as 19 year old Monica Mendes, of Kennett, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

Three other people in the vehicle, including two juveniles, suffered moderate or minor injuries and were also taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

QULIN HOMECOMING COMING UP THIS WEEKEND

This weekend will mark the return of the Qulin Homecoming.

Organizers say that the opening ceremony will begin at 10:30 am on Saturday and will be immediately followed by the parade, which will start on 5th Street.

There will also be events and vendors available after the parade including the rock, paper, scissors tournament, the car show, and outhouse races, as well as the Bake and Cake wars.

More information is available on the City of Qulin Facebook page.

DUNKLIN COUNTY MAN SENTENCED TO OVER NINE YEARS IN PRISON FOR METH CONSPIRACY

A Dunklin County man will spend almost a decade in prison in connection to a methamphetamine conspiracy.

On Thursday, a US District Judge sentenced 35 year old Jody Renfro, of Kennett, to 110 months in prison for his role in a methamphetamine conspiracy involving his twin brother and another man.

Renfro is the third and final defendant in the case to be sentenced. He pleaded guilty in April to a charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

In April, a judge sentenced 32 year old John Andrew Schoolcraft, of Portageville, to 15 years in prison for the offenses of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

35 year old Jammie Renfro, of Kennett, was sentenced in August to 130 months in federal prison for the offenses of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine.

All three pleaded guilty and admitted distributing methamphetamine throughout Dunklin County from May of 2022 through June 23, 2022.

Thursday, October 5, 2023

BUTLER COUNTY COMMISSION ANNOUNCES FOUR NEW MEMBERS FOR THE NEELYVILLE SCHOOL BOARD

The Butler County Commission has announced four new members for the Neelyville R-4 School Board.

Butler County Presiding Commissioner Vince Lampe tells KWOC News that Les Thomas, John French, Gene Russom, and Jack Stull were chosen by the commission to fill the vacant seats.

Four former members of the Neelyville School Board announced their resignations during a school board meeting on September 21st.

BLOOMFIELD MIDDLE SCHOOL EVACUATED DUE TO FIRE

School was disrupted for a period of time yesterday in Bloomfield.

According to Bloomfield R-14 Superintendent Jason Karnes, an air conditioner caught on fire Wednesday morning on the outside of the lower level of the middle school building.

Both floors of the middle school were evacuated as a precautionary measure while the Bloomfield Fire Department assessed the area.

Staff members were able to extinguish the fire quickly and keep it contained to just the air conditioning unit.

NEW STOP SIGN INSTALLED AT MAUD AND 11TH IN POPLAR BLUFF

Poplar Bluff motorists will have to be mindful of a new stop sign that has been installed in the city.

According to city officials, new stop signs have been placed at the intersection of Maud and 11th Street, making the intersection a four-way stop.

Officials say that the placement location was based on a traffic study as well as accident history of the area.

TRC CHAMPIONSHIP COLLEGE RODEO TO BEGIN TODAY

Three Rivers College and the Sikeston Jaycees are teaming up to host the Championship College Rodeo starting today.

The Rodeo has been scheduled for today through Saturday at the Art Saunders Arena at the Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo grounds.

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.

Championship College Rodeo tickets are available to purchase online at RaidersAthletics.TicketLeap.com.

EARTHQUAKE RECORDED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

An Earthquake was recorded late Tuesday night in Southeast Missouri.

According to the United States Geological Survey, the magnitude 2.9 quake was located very close to the Mississippi River in Southeastern New Madrid County.

The earthquake had a depth of over 6 miles and had numerous reports of people feeling the effects of it in the area.

CREWS TO CONDUCT MAINTENANCE TODAY ON BRIDGE IN STODDARD COUNTY

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Stoddard County today to perform bridge maintenance on Route 114.

The bridge involved in the project is located between Route 153 and Oak Street in Grayridge.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled for 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., today.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS THIS WEEK ON INTERSTATE 55

Northbound and Southbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction for the rest of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement work. 

The section of roadway involved in the project is located from mile marker 55.4 to mile marker 59.4 near Matthews.

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

Wednesday, October 4, 2023

NATIONWIDE EMERGENCY ALERT TEST SCHEDULED FOR TODAY

A National Emergency Alert test will be conducted this afternoon.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, a one minute test alert will be sent to cell phones, radio, and television today at 1:20 pm.

Officials say that the test is done to ensure that alert systems are effective to warn the public about emergencies.

POPLAR BLUFF BETA ADVISORS RECOGNIZED FOR THEIR WORK HELPING THE CLUB GROW

Two outgoing advisors have earned national recognition for helping the Poplar Bluff High School Beta Club grow.

According to school officials, business education teacher Pam Davis and Assistant Principal Dr. Stephanie Kuper have been named 2023 John W. Harris Educators of Excellence.

They were among only 170 of over 20,000 sponsors to earn the honor out of more than 8,500 clubs across the U.S. and beyond.

To qualify for the award, sponsors must focus on club growth, community service, and networking at National Beta events.

The PBHS Beta Club was named a National Beta School of Merit in July by offering membership to all eligible grades across campus; the club grew from below 50 members to approximately 130; and each member has completed 50-75 service hours across the campus community.

Kuper and Davis have served together for the past couple of years. The duo have been succeeded by math teacher Mona Blackburn and language arts teacher Emily Padilla, both new to PBHS.

POPLAR BLUFF AND NAYLOR AMONG SCHOOLS AWARDED GRANT MONEY FROM THE STATE

Multiple schools in Southeast Missouri have been chosen to receive grant money for school safety.

Earlier this week, Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced a total of 566 school districts, charter schools, and nonpublic schools have received grant funds from the second round of funding for the School Safety Grant Program.

Some of the school districts in Southeast Missouri to receive grant money included Poplar Bluff with $300,000, Naylor with $50,000, and Dexter with $150,000.

Schools applied to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education through a competitive grant application process. The maximum grant amount awarded was $300,000.

OFFICER DRAGGED FROM VEHICLE BEFORE HIGH SPEED PURSUIT IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A Southeast Missouri police officer was dragged from a vehicle during an altercation in the bootheel.

According to the Caruthersville Police Department, officers were assisting Pemiscot County Deputies last week in locating a vehicle that was reported stolen. A Caruthersville officer located the vehicle on I-155 near mile marker four and initiated a traffic stop.

The driver of the vehicle was non compliant with the officers instructions and tried to drive off. The officer got into the passenger side of the vehicle and began struggling with the driver. The vehicle began to travel back onto the roadway, resulting in the officer being dragged and eventually falling from the vehicle.

No information was released on if the officer was injured.

Other law enforcement engaged in a high speed pursuit of the vehicle, which came to an end on the I-55 Route U overpass.

25 year old Terry Gooch was arrested and booked into the Pemiscot County Justice Center. A no bond warrant was later obtained for the felony charges of assault 1st degree, unlawful possession of a firearm, tampering with motor vehicle 1st degree, and resisting arrest by fleeing.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY NEAR ESSEX

Route 114 in Stoddard County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The work zone is located near Essex between Route 153 and County Road 775.

Work is scheduled to take place today from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD NEAR MOREHOUSE TO BE CLOSED TODAY

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

The section of roadway being closed is located between County Road 832 and County Road 845 near Morehouse.

Work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

WATER LEAK PROMPTS BOIL WATER ORDER IN NEELYVILLE

A Butler County community is under a boil water order today.

According to officials with the city of Neelyville, a water leak Monday morning caused the city to lose all water pressure.

Crews worked all day Monday to get the leak repaired and restore water service to area residents. The lack of water did force the cancellation of classes for Neelyville schools on Monday.

Officials say the boil water order will be in effect until further notice.

MISSING WOMAN INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Authorities in Southeast Missouri are trying to locate a missing woman.

According to Bollinger County Sheriff Casey Graham, on September 29th, the Sheriff’s Office received information concerning a missing person.

The person was identified as Leah Lamb. Graham says Lamb has a registered address in Saint Louis, but is believed to have been residing within Bollinger County.

Lamb is described as a forty-two year old white female with blonde hair. She is five feet, one inch tall and weighs one hundred and twenty pounds.

Anyone with information on Lamb’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Office at 573-238-2633.

OVER 500 THOUSAND DOLLARS IN GRANT MONEY AWARDED TO NEW CULINARY ARTS CENTER

The Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center has been awarded over half of a million dollars to go towards the construction of a new center for students.

According to school officials, $513,000 in grant money has been awarded toward the Culinary Arts Center at the PBTCC.

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has announced that the Poplar Bluff R-I school district was among 17 that applied for the 50/50 matching grant that was awarded through the Area Career Center Construction fund bill.

The facility will feature a foyer with a reception area, private dining room, restrooms, dry storage, deep freezer, office overseeing the kitchen, and an expanded workstation that includes a pizza oven, indoor smoker, and double the number of fryers, flattop grills, and range ovens.

ARREST MADE IN SIKESTON HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION

An arrest has been made in connection to a Southeast Missouri homicide investigation.

According to Sergeant Tyler Rowe with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, Carolyn Hann, of Sikeston, was found dead at an area residence on Monday, September 18th.

An investigation into the death led to the arrest of 37 year old Fabayan Larry, of Sikeston.

Larry is currently being held on a no bond warrant for 1st degree murder and armed criminal action.

SHOULDER REPAIRS TO BEGIN TODAY ON US ROUTE 60 IN BUTLER COUNTY

Multiple work zones will be set up beginning today on US Route 60 in Butler County.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, shoulder repairs will be taking place at the northbound on and off ramps from Route AA to Route 60, the southbound on and off ramp from Route T to Route 60, and the eastbound U.S. 60 ramp to U.S. 67 south.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Tuesday, October 10th.

During the repairs, there will be a 10 foot width restriction in the work zones.

CULVERT REPLACEMENTS WILL FORCE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF VAN BUREN ROAD

Route D in Carter County will be closed today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace several culverts under the roadway.

The section of roadway being closed is located from Business 60 to Deann Street in Van Buren.

Weather permitting, work will be performed from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. today.

Monday, October 2, 2023

LINEUP ANNOUNCED FOR 2023 POPLAR BLUFF SHOWDOWN

The eight teams who will be playing in the 2023 Poplar Bluff Showdown have been released.

Poplar Bluff Athletics Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that the field will include teams from five different states.

Poplar Bluff will be joined by New Madrid County Central and Christian Brothers from Missouri, Vilonia from Arkansas, McCracken County from Kentucky, and Urbana from Illinois along with Memphis East and Germantown from Tennessee.

The three day Tournament will begin on Thursday, December 28th.

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING CRASH NEAR CARDWELL

A weekend motorcycle crash in Dunklin County caused the death of an Arkansas woman.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 62 year old Carl Martin, of Elizabeth, Arkansas, was riding the motorcycle on US Highway 412 when the vehicle ran off the left side of the roadway and struck a tree.

A passenger on the vehicle, 62 year old Letha Martin, also of Elizabeth, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver suffered moderate injuries and was transported to a Paragould hospital.

FALL BUFF UP THE BLUFF COMING ON OCTOBER 14TH

The 2023 Fall Buff up the Bluff event is set for later this month.

The citywide clean up event has been scheduled for Saturday, October 14th.

Henson’s Transfer Station on the Industrial Park Bypass will be accepting items from 8 am to 3 pm. Proof of Poplar Bluff residency will be required.

October 9th is the first 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.

LORRIE DUCKWORTH APPOINTED STODDARD COUNTY PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR

A new Public Administrator has been selected for Stoddard County.

Missouri Governor Mike Parson tells KWOC News that he has appointed Lorrie Duckworth to the position.

Duckworth has served as a deputy juvenile officer for the 35th Judicial Circuit in Stoddard County since 2013. She previously owned and operated an in-home daycare center.

Duckworth was one of four appointments Governor Parson announced on Friday to positions across the state.

BRIDGE OVER MISSISSIPPI RIVER TO BE CLOSED BEGINNING TODAY

A bridge connecting Missorui and Illinois will be closed for a year beginning today.

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, the US Highway 60/62 bridge over the Mississippi River will be closed to all traffic through October 1st 2024.

Officials say that the closure is necessary to perform major structural repairs. A marked detour will be in place to direct motorists.

POPLAR BLUFF AREA ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS

The West Outer Road in Butler County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.  

The section of roadway being worked on is located from Route M to County Road 476 near Poplar Bluff.     

Weather permitting, work will take place today between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR BRIDGE MAINTENANCE

Route AA in New Madrid County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The bridge involved in the project is located from County Line Road to Lynual Street near Miner.

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

Friday, September 29, 2023

FALL FIREARMS TURKEY SEASON TO BEGIN THIS WEEKEND IN MISSOURI

The fall firearms turkey season will begin this weekend in Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, the season will run from October 1st through October 31st. The hours for hunting will be from one-half hour before sunrise to sunset each day.

Hunters may take two turkeys of either sex during the season and there are restrictions on the type of firearms that may be used.

There are also multiple counties where firearm turkey hunting will not be permitted during the season, including Dunklin, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, and Scott counties.

A full list of regulations is available at mdc.mo.gov.

AREA WOMAN SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR DRUG AND GUN CHARGES

An area woman has been sentenced to a decade in prison for multiple charges.

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that in January of this year, a search warrant was executed at the residence of 64 year old Paula Laboone in Kennett. During the search, numerous bags and baggies containing over two pounds of methamphetamine packaged for sale were seized from the living room and bedroom of the residence.

Additionally, a semi-automatic pistol was seized from the bedroom. Laboone was later interviewed and admitted to buying and selling methamphetamine for several months. She further admitted that the firearm was hers and she was aware she could not possess it.

Laboone has previous felony convictions for possession of controlled substances in Dunklin County and is therefore prohibited from possessing firearms.

On Thursday, Laboone was sentenced to serve 120 months in federal prison for the offenses of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.

RAIDER MADNESS EVENT SET FOR SUNDAY TO COINCIDE WITH FIRST BASKETBALL PRACTICE FOR THREE RIVERS MEN’S AND WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Raider Madness is coming this weekend to the Libla Family Sports Complex in Poplar Bluff.

The event will celebrate the first practice of the season for both the Men’s and Women’s Three Rivers College Basketball teams.

Doors will open at 2 pm on October 1st, with the event starting at 3 pm.

There will be a three-point contest, dunk contest, cheer performance, women’s scrimmage, and men’s scrimmage.

POPLAR BLUFF POM SQUAD KIDDIE CAMP SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK

The Poplar Bluff Pom Squad is holding a dance camp for students in preschool through 6th grade next week.

The camp is scheduled to be held at the O’Neal Elementary FEMA Gymnasium from 6 to 7:30 pm on October 2nd, 3rd, and 5th.

The cost is $25 per child and will include a T-shirt.

A performance will be held following the camp on Monday, October 9th during the Mules Freshman football game at the High School Football field.

For more information, contact Coach Sheehy at paigesheehy@pb.k12.mo.us.

BUTLER COUNTY COMMUNITY OUTREACH DAY SET FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

The Butler County Community Outreach Coalition is hosting a big event to end the month of September.

Community Outreach Day has been scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm today 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.

FINAL POPLAR BLUFF TRAIL RUN OF 2023 SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

The final Poplar Bluff trail run of 2023 will be coming up this weekend.

The 2nd Annual Mark Twain Hardwoods eight mile run is scheduled for 9 am on Saturday.

The run will begin at the Victor Horse Trailhead near County Road 410.

You can sign up online at UltraSignUp.com.

Thursday, September 28, 2023

MULES CAFE TO OPEN TODAY FOR NEW SCHOOL YEAR

Poplar Bluff students will be making lunch for customers beginning today.

The Mules Café, located in the R-1 Administrative Building on North Westwood Boulevard, is open to the public from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday and Friday each week, unless school is out.

This year will be a little different as the culinary arts class is anticipating a midyear move from the Administrative Building to the Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center campus in the state-of-the-art Culinary Arts Center, which is about midway through construction.

This will be the end of the Café’s approximately 45 year run in its current location.

NEELYVILLE MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON DRUG RELATED CHARGES

A Neelyville man is facing multiple drug related charges following his arrest Tuesday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 46 year old Benjamin Buhler was taken into custody on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

Buhler is also facing a charge of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

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

BUTLER COUNTY FAIR BEGINS TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

The Butler County Fair is kicking off today in Poplar Bluff.

The three day fair is set for today through Saturday at its new home, the Poplar Bluff Motorsports Park.

Multiple events are scheduled for the fair this year, including the donkey races tonight, the Chalk Bluff Rodeo Company on Friday, and the Tractor and Truck Pull on Saturday.

The Black River Coliseum will be hosting the fair exhibits and silent auction over all three days, as well as the Butler County Fair Beauty Pageant on Friday.

For more information, visit BCFair.org.

QULIN HOMECOMING PLANNED FOR OCTOBER 7TH

October 7th will mark the return of the Qulin Homecoming.

Organizers say that the opening ceremony will begin at 10:30 am and will be immediately followed by the parade, which will start on 5th Street.

There will also be events and vendors available after the parade including the rock, paper, scissors tournament, the car show, and outhouse races, as well as the Bake and Cake wars.

More information is available on the City of Qulin Facebook page.

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 the feathers.

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

BRIDGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN THE ESSEX AREA

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

The work zone is located between County Road 763 and County Road 775 near Essex.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through 3:30 p.m.

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

THREE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS TO RECEIVE MISSOURI MEDAL OF VALOR THIS WEEK

Three Southeast Missouri law enforcement officers will be honored with Missouri Public Safety medals during a ceremony this week.

State Troopers Adam Shipley and Joshua Schuenemeyer, along with Captain Barry Morgan, of the Mississippi County Sheriff’s Office, will be awarded with the Medal of Valor for exceptional courage and heroism in an attempt to protect or save human life.

Trooper Shipley’s award is for ending the abduction of a woman and her child in Madison County in January of 2022.

Trooper Schuenemeyer and Captain Morgan are being honored for their efforts to rescue a driver trapped in a burning truck in the aftermath of a deadly chain-reaction crash involving more than 45 vehicles on Interstate 57 in March of 2022.

Missouri Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe will present the three with their medals during an event in Jefferson City on Thursday.

TWO INJURED, ONE FACING CHARGES, IN CONNECTION TO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CRASH

Two people were injured in a crash Tuesday in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 34 year old Cody Gaither, of Advance, was driving on Missouri Highway 25 shortly after noon when his vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway, came back onto the roadway, and then struck a vehicle.

Gaither suffered serious injuries in the crash, while the driver of the second vehicle received minor injuries. Both were transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

According to an arrest report issued by the Highway Patrol, Gaither is facing charges of driving while intoxicated - alcohol and failure to drive on the right half of the roadway resulting in an accident.

POPLAR BLUFF ROTARY CLUB DONATES $1,500 TO LAKE ROAD ELEMENTARY

The Rotary Club of Poplar Bluff has donated over $1,000 to an area school.

According to school officials, the Rotary Club has made a $1,500 donation to Lake Road Elementary, renewing its long-term partnership over the Good Habits Store, which was established during the 2012/13 school year.

The Good Habits store gives Lake Road students the opportunity to accumulate points for perfect attendance and behavior, and spend those points in the store which is stocked with snacks, clothing, school supplies and small gift items.

Steve Hicks, Rotary Club president, says that the Good Habits Store has remained one of the civic organization’s primary philanthropic endeavors.

MDC CONSIDERING CHANGES TO TURKEY HUNTING REGULATIONS

The Missouri Department of Transportation is considering changes to turkey hunting regulations in the state and wants the opinions of hunters from across the state.

The MDC is seeking input from turkey hunters on possible changes to spring and fall wild turkey hunting seasons, including all-day spring hunting and reduced harvest limits for fall seasons.

Missouri’s spring turkey hunting season, specifically the start date, was designed to take place after the peak in turkey breeding had occurred. Research indicates that the current season structure, combined with the reproductive ecology of turkeys, has resulted in relatively low harvest rates on juvenile and adult gobblers over the years.

Changes are also being considered for fall turkey hunting regulations that aim to balance the wellbeing of the turkey population while trying to maximize hunting opportunities.

Turkey hunters can go online to mdc.mo.gov for more information on potential regulation changes and to provide their comments. The comment period closes October 6th.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SET FOR TODAY ON ROUTE U IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

The section of roadway being reduced is located between County Road 615 and Winchester Road in Bernie.

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

ROUTE 114 IN STODDARD COUNTY TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR BRIDGE REPAIRS

Route 114 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform bridge repairs.

The bridge involved in the project is located from County Road 763 to Trotter Street near Essex.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled for 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. today.

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE INVESTIGATING CONFRONTATION THAT INCLUDED GUNSHOTS BEING FIRED

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are investigating a confrontation from over the weekend that included shots being fired.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly after 2 pm on Sunday, officers responded to a report of shots fired in the 1100 block of West Maud Street.

At the scene officers found spent shell casings in the roadway.

Officials say that surveillance video from a nearby residence captured a red passenger car stopping and two male subjects on foot approaching the car.

One of the males standing outside the car pointed a firearm into the air and fired several rounds before running west on Maud Street.

There have been no reports of injuries or damage from the gunshots.

Officials say that all three of the subjects have been identified and an investigation into the incident is ongoing.

DONIPHAN CITY WIDE YARD SALE SET FOR NEXT MONTH

A Doniphan tradition is returning next month.

The Doniphan Fall City Wide Yard Sale is scheduled for 8 am to 3 pm on Saturday, October 14th.

The event will feature vendors, food trucks, sales, and more.

For more information, contact Chasity Mathis at 573-996-2623.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

A Butler County man was taken into custody Monday morning on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 22 year old Dylan Powell, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested at around 9:30 am on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

Powell is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. He also reportedly had two warrants out of Butler County.

Following the arrest, Powell was held in the Butler County Jail.

SENIOR HEALTH FAIR SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER IN POPLAR BLUFF

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

The 26th Annual 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, vaccinations, community resource information, and more.

For more information, call 573-686-8624.

HIGHWAY 60 OVERPASS CONSTRUCTION PROJECT UNDERWAY

Construction of a new overpass on Route 60 in New Madrid County is underway.

The new overpass for Ingram Road is located between Route 61 and Interstate 55 near Sikeston.

For the initial phase, Route 60 will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction as contractor crews set a temporary barrier wall for this project.

The next phase will start on Friday, October 6th. During this time, the roadway will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction for construction of the overpass at Ingram Road. Completion is anticipated by Monday, July 1st, 2024.

The work zone will be marked with signs. Motorists are urged to use extreme caution while traveling near the area.

ROAD CONSTRUCTION PLANNED FOR TODAY NEAR CAMPBELL

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

The section of roadway being reduced is located from County Road 222 to County Road 206 near Campbell.

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

Monday, September 25, 2023

WOMAN SHOT WITH A FLARE GUN IN POPLAR BLUFF, ONE IN CUSTODY

A subject is in custody after a woman was reportedly shot with a flare gun in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, at around 8:30 pm Thursday night, officers responded to the 800 block of West Maud Street following a report of the incident.

The victim was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital and then flown to a St. Louis hospital for treatment.

The suspect, identified as 32 year old Henry Lindsey, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested near the scene.

Lindsey was booked in the Butler County Jail on charges of domestic assault 1st degree, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

PRESIDENT BIDEN APPROVES FEDERAL DISASTER DECLARATION FOR 33 MISSOURI COUNTIES INCLUDING WAYNE AND NEW MADRID

President Joe Biden has approved a major disaster declaration to provide federal assistance in 33 Missouri counties in response to multiple severe weather systems that impacted the state from July 29th through August 14th.

Southeast Missouri counties involved in the request include Wayne, New Madrid, Madison, and Bollinger.

According to Missouri Governor Mike Parson’s office, Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments conducted by SEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and local emergency managers estimate more than $14 million in infrastructure damage and emergency response costs eligible for federal assistance.

Local governments and qualifying nonprofit agencies may seek federal assistance for reimbursement of emergency response and recovery costs, including repair and replacement costs for damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure.

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

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

According to the Kennett Police Department, officers will not allow any west bound traffic on First Street or Saint Francis Street, 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.

NATIONWIDE EMERGENCY ALERT TEST SCHEDULED FOR EARLY OCTOBER

A National Emergency Alert test will be conducted in early October.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, a one minute test alert will be sent to cell phones, radio, and television on Wednesday, October 4th at 1:20 pm.

Officials say that the test is done to ensure that alert systems are effective to warn the public about emergencies.

CARTER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY AS CREWS REPLACE A CULVERT

Route J in Carter County will be closed for most of this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a culvert under the roadway.

The section of roadway being closed is located from Pine Knot Road to County Road 174.

Weather permitting, work will be performed from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Thursday.

BRIDGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY NEAR DEXTER

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

The bridge involved in the project is located from County Road 717 to County Road 725 near Dexter.

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

Friday, September 22, 2023

HOMECOMING IS TONIGHT FOR POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL

Homecoming is tonight in Poplar Bluff.

The Mules will welcome the Sikeston Bulldogs for the annual homecoming football game at Poplar Bluff High School, with kickoff scheduled for 7 pm.

Before the game, the homecoming court will be presented and the homecoming queen will be crowned.

The five members of the 2023 Poplar Bluff Homecoming Court are Savannah Hanner, Kelsey Kramer, Ava Richardson, Macie Robertson, and Kennedy Zgaynor.

Today’s Talk KWOC will have the entire homecoming presentation live at Facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC and Youtube.com/RiverRadioPB beginning at 6 pm.

PUXICO MAN KILLED AFTER BEING STRUCK BY TRACTOR TRAILER IN STODDARD COUNTY

One man is dead after being struck by a tractor trailer in Stoddard County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the accident happened at approximately 1 pm Thursday afternoon.

The tractor trailer was going northbound on County Road 477, around five miles north of Dudley, when it struck a pedestrian who was in the roadway.

The pedestrian, 31 year old William Vanover, of Puxico, was pronounced dead at the scene by Stoddard County Coroner Brent Stidham.

MAJORITY OF NEELYVILLE SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS RESIGN

The Neelyville School Board meeting came to an early end Thursday night.

Four of the seven members of the board announced their resignations at the meeting, including President Vernon Barker and Vice President Dean Fisher.

The other board members to resign were Retired Lieutenant Commander Bob Burgett and Wayne Willcut.

KWOC News will continue to follow this story and provide more updates as they become available.

RODEO SET FOR TONIGHT AT THE STODDARD COUNTY FAIR

The 96th Stoddard County Fair is continuing tonight and on Saturday with multiple events at the Stoddard County Fair Grounds.

At 7 pm tonight, the rodeo is scheduled to begin at Arena A. Other entertainment scheduled for tonight include Jason Brown and Robinson Chainsaw Carvers.

There are numerous events set for Saturday, including the buyers breakfast, the 4H and FFA livestock auction, and demo derby.

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

TWIN RIVERS MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER APPROVED FOR MUSIC GRANT

A middle school teacher in Fisk has been approved for grant money for her students.

Alicia Anderle, of Twin Rivers Fisk Middle School, has been awarded a $1,000 music grant by the Peter R. March Foundation.

Anderle tells KWOC News that she plans to use the grant money to purchase ukuleles for her middle school music class.

The students will learn how to play the instruments and then perform for area senior citizens, including at retirement and nursing homes.

PARAGOULD MAN ARRESTED ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGE

A Northeast Arkansas man is in custody following his arrest on a child pornography charge.

According to the Jonesboro Police Department, a report was made that 31 year old Cortez Borders, of Paragould, had sent sexually explicit videos and photos of juvenile females to someone he had met on a dating app.

Borders was questioned about the messages and stated there were more images of child exploitation on his phone.

A bench warrant was issued for Borders arrest on September 20th, and he was transported to the Craighead County Detention Center on a charge of distributing, possessing, or viewing matter depicting sexual conduct involving a child.

He has appeared for his probable cause hearing and received a $150,000 cash or surety bond.