Thursday, November 16, 2023

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATE THREATS MADE IN CONNECTION TO POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL

Authorities are investigating a threat made on social media concerning Poplar Bluff High School.

Poplar Bluff R-1 Superintendent Dr. Aaron Cornman tells KWOC News that the school district has been made aware of a Snapchat posting that shared an image of an A.R. style rifle resting on the tailgate of a truck with comments indicating possible threats to the High School.

School officials acted immediately to investigate and maintain the safety of all Poplar Bluff students, staff, and families. Law enforcement officials have made contact with the students involved in the incident.

According to a report from the Poplar Bluff Police Department, officers determined the student did not have immediate access to a firearm, and the parent agreed to take additional precautions. The matter was referred to the Juvenile Office.

Cornman reiterated that the district will not tolerate any threats to students, faculty, or the greater school community. Individuals who engage in this type of behavior will be disciplined in accordance with school board policy up to and including possible expulsion from the school district.

Cornman also wanted parents to take a moment to discuss with their children the importance of appropriate technology usage and the potential consequences with what they post online.

MAN INJURED DURING ALTERCATION IN POPLAR BLUFF

A man was injured in an altercation that involved a knife Tuesday morning in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly before 10 am, officers responded to a residence on Mangold Street for a medical emergency.

At the scene, the victim told officers that 57 year old Rebecca Riggs had flourished a knife during an argument and that he had sustained a laceration to his arm while the two fought over the knife.

The victim was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

Riggs was taken into custody without incident and is facing charges of assault 1st degree, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon.

She was lodged in the Butler County Jail.

MDC INVESTIGATING ELK POACHING IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

The Missouri Department of Conservation is investigating an alleged elk poaching in Southeast Missouri.

According to officials, a bull elk was illegally killed and left near Klepzig Mill in Shannon County over the opening weekend of Missouri’s firearms deer season. A local deer hunter found and reported the animal’s location to the MDC.

Missouri’s Operation Game Thief is offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of the poacher that shot the elk.

Conservation agents are asking that anyone with information related to this incident call the Operation Game Thief hotline at 800-392-1111.

ONE PERSON IS DEAD AFTER TRAIN HITS CAR IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

One man is dead, while another is injured following a collision involving a train in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the incident occurred on Monday along East County Road 860 in Mississippi County.

A vehicle was westbound on the road and failed to stop at the crossing when it was hit by the train.

The driver of the vehicle was killed in the wreck. His identity has not been released. A passenger in the vehicle, identified as 34 year old Wilber Morales, of Kennett, was injured and transported to a Memphis hospital.

CHARGES DISMISSED AGAINST STODDARD COUNTY MAN

The Missouri Attorney General’s Office has dismissed multiple charges against a Stoddard County man who was arrested earlier this year.

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Sawyer Smith, in May, 18 year old Peyton Jarrell, of Dexter, was charged with 11 felonies and two misdemeanors by Smith’s office.

Due to Jarrell having family members in the Stoddard County Government and to avoid the appearance of any impropriety, Smith was approved to have the case transferred to the Missouri Attorney General’s Office.

Earlier this week, the Attorney General’s office dismissed all charges pursuant to certain terms of a deferred prosecution agreement entered into with the defense.

Smith said in the Facebook post that he did not make the decision to dismiss the charges and he would not have done so without a preliminary hearing.

SHOULDER REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN THE DUDLEY AREA

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

This section of roadway is located from County Road 442 to County Road 470 near Dudley.

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

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

COMMUNITY TREE LIGHTING TO BE HELD IN DOWNTOWN POPLAR BLUFF ON DECEMBER 1ST

Downtown Poplar Bluff will be filled with the spirit of Christmas this December.

The lighting of the Community Christmas Tree, brought to you by Missouri Highlands Health Care, has been scheduled for 6 pm, on Friday, December 1st.

The Christmas Tree will be located in front of the Black River Coliseum and the lighting of the tree will be broadcast on the Today’s Talk KWOC, Clear 94, Z95 the Bone, and Hot 92.9 Facebook pages, as well as the River Radio Youtube page.

Immediately after the lighting, the River Radio Lighted Christmas Parade will begin, running from Highway 53 down Ditch Road before circling through Downtown Poplar Bluff.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON DOMESTIC ASSAULT AND WEAPON CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man is in custody on assault and weapon charges.

According to Missouri Case Net, 20 year old Joshua Bardell was arrested Monday on charges of domestic assault, unlawful use of a weapon, and possession of a controlled substance.

Bardell is accused of striking a woman multiple times as well as choking her, and then chasing her while holding a piece of glass from a broken vase.

During Bardell’s arrest, an officer found a small baggie containing a white crystalline substance that Bardell identified as methamphetamine, as well as four syringes.

Bardell is being held in the Butler County Justice Center on a no bond warrant and is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday morning.

EAST PRAIRIE MAN ARRESTED IN SIKESTON HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION

Updating a story we brought to you yesterday, an arrest has been made in connection to a homicide investigation in Sikeston.

Sergeant Tyler Rowe with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC News that Sunday evening officers received a report of a subject shot at a residence in the 100 block of North Handy.

At the scene, officers found a male subject dead with a gunshot wound. The subject has been identified as Anthony Evans of Sikeston.

Rowe says that 19 year old Dazarrion Easton, of East Prairie, has been arrested and charged with felony murder 1st degree, robbery 1st degree, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of weapon. Easton is currently being held on a no bond warrant through Scott County.

The Sikeston DPS Criminal Investigation Unit and SEMO Major Case Squad investigated the case.

POPLAR BLUFF FIREFIGHTERS EXTINGUISH FIRE ON NORTH D STREET

Poplar Bluff firefighters were called to the scene of a residential fire on Monday.

According to the Poplar Bluff Fire Department, crews were dispatched shortly after 6 am Monday morning to a reported structure fire on North D Street.

At the scene, crews found a single story residential structure with flames showing through the roof. The fire was extinguished and multiple searches of the house were completed with nobody being found inside.

The State Fire Marshall was contacted and an investigator was dispatched to the scene.

No information has been released on a possible cause for the fire.

OVER 44 THOUSAND DOLLARS RETURNED TO CLAY COUNTY

A Northeast Arkansas County has been returned over $44,000 through the state’s unclaimed property program.

Arkansas Auditor of State Dennis Milligan recently visited with Clay County Judge Mike Patterson and Representative Jeremy Wooldridge during a trip to the area.

Milligan says that his office located and returned $44,992 for Clay County from the state’s unclaimed property program, the Great Arkansas Treasure Hunt.

In addition to finding funds for Clay County, Milligan also located over $4,000 for the Piggott School District.

TWO WEEK LONG SHOULDER PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Route NN in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction for the rest of this month as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder work.

The section of roadway being reduced is located between Route 164 and County Road 454 near Rives.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Friday, December 1st.

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

OVER 90 THOUSAND DEER HARVESTED DURING OPENING WEEKEND OF FIREARM DEER SEASON

Hunters across Missouri took to the woods over the weekend for the opening of the November potion of firearms deer season.

According to preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation, hunters harvested 90,334 deer during opening weekend. Of the deer harvested, 53,159 were antlered bucks, 7,163 were button bucks, and 30,012 were does.

Officials say that the opening weekend harvest was similar to the previous five-year average and down around 3,000 deer from last year.

Howell, Wayne, and Bollinger were the top counties in Southeast Missouri coming in at 3rd, 6th, and 11th statewide.

(Photo courtesy of the Missouri Department of Conservation and Mark Ramsey.)

TWO POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS CHOSEN FOR ALL-STATE CHOIR

Two Poplar Bluff students will have been chosen as members of the Missouri All-State Choir.

School officials tell KWOC News that 11 Poplar Bluff High School students were included during the Southeast Missouri All-District Choir performance on Saturday at Cape Central High School.

Auditions for the All-State Choir were also held during this time, which resulted in Poplar Bluff’s Ray Bourd and Gabriel Burke being selected as members.

The Mules’ Andrew Noble and Elijah Bosch were selected as All-State alternates, while Virginiagrace Vandewarker received an honorable mention.

MAJOR CASE SQUAD ACTIVATED FOR HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION

A homicide investigation is underway in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, Sunday evening officers received a report of a subject shot at a residence in the 100 block of North Handy.

At the scene, officers found a male subject dead with a gunshot wound. The subject has been identified as Anthony Evans of Sikeston.

The SEMO Major Case Squad has been activated to assist with the investigation.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Sikeston DPS at 573-471-4711 and ask to speak with an investigator or contact the anonymous Tip Line at 573-475-3774.

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY A VEHICLE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A pedestrian was struck and killed by a vehicle over the weekend in Northeast Arkansas.

Greene County Sheriff Brad Snyder tells KWOC News that shortly after 11 pm Saturday night, emergency services received a report from a motorist saying that they believed they had struck a person who was walking on Highway 358.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the vehicle was traveling eastbound when they hit the pedestrian, identified as 28 year old Ashley Harris, of Paragould, in the eastbound lane.

Harris was pronounced dead at the scene.

NATIONAL CRASH RESPONDER SAFETY WEEK IS THIS WEEK

Motorists are being urged to slow down and move over as a part of National Crash Responder Safety Week this week.

On a daily basis, emergency responders put their lives on the line along Missouri’s highways responding to crash scenes. These workers include police, fire, EMS, tow truck operators and highway workers.

Officials say that by state law, drivers are required to move over or slow down, but a significant number do not.

In 2022, more than 54,000 traffic crashes were reported on Missouri roadways that required emergency response. MoDOT emergency response personnel respond to more than 4,500 traffic incidents each month on average.

Officials say that when you see emergency vehicles and highway crews with warning lights either on the road or shoulder; slow down, and when you’re able to do so, move over.

BRIDGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON US HIGHWAY 412

U.S. Highway 412 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

The section of roadway involved in the project is located from Route NN to Route UU, near Kennett.

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

Monday, November 13, 2023

POPLAR BLUFF SWIMMER FINISHES IN 15TH PLACE DURING STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

A Poplar Bluff swimmer placed in the top 15 at the state swimming championships.

Poplar Bluff’s Carson Todd finished in 15th place Friday in the 50 Freestyle during the MSHSAA Class 1 State Swimming Championship at St. Peters.

Todd also set new school records in the 50 and 100 freestyle. New school records were also set by the Mules in the 200 medley relay as well as by Poplar Bluff’s Owen McDaniel in the 100 breaststroke.

UNITED GOSPEL RESCUE MISSION TO HOST ANNUAL THANKSGIVING DINNER

The United Gospel Rescue Mission is providing their annual Thanksgiving Meal on November 23rd.

The meal will be held at around noon on Thanksgiving at the Rescue Mission in Poplar Bluff. If you can’t make it to the rescue mission you can also call ahead and have a meal delivered to you by contacting 573-785-4683.

The Rescue Mission is in need of volunteers to help prepare meals leading up to the event. On Thanksgiving, the rescue mission will also need assistance to prepare, serve, and deliver the meals. They are also accepting donations of desserts to be used in the meals.

If you would like more information, want to schedule a delivery, or want to donate a dessert, call 573-785-4683.

Reverend Gregory Kirk with the United Gospel Rescue Mission wants to thank the people of Poplar Bluff and Butler County for their generosity, because without them, the Rescue Mission would not be able to hold this event every year.

TEEN FLOWN FROM SCENE OF A CRASH NEAR BLOOMFIELD

A teenager was flown from the scene of a crash over the weekend near Bloomfield.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 16 year old male was driving on Route Y Saturday afternoon when his vehicle ran off the roadway and struck a culvert.

The juvenile suffered serious injuries and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

ELLINGTON MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

A single vehicle crash on Friday left an Ellington man with serious injuries.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 72 year old Howard Reed was driving on Missouri Highway 49, near Williamsville, when his vehicle ran off the left side of the road and struck a tree.

Reed received serious injuries and was transported by air to a St. Louis hospital.

DONIPHAN STREET TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR UTILITY WORK

A Doniphan street is being closed today for utility work.

According to Doniphan City Officials, utility crews are closing the 700 block of Apricot today for the project beginning at 8 am.

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.

ROAD PROJECT TO CAUSE DELAYS ON ROUTE 61

U.S. Route 61 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane early this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder repairs. 

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route HH to Route W near Matthews.

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

Friday, November 10, 2023

DEER SEASON BEGINS ON SATURDAY

Hunters from across Missouri will be heading to the woods this 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 11th through the 21st and the opening weekend is the most popular two days for most deer hunters in Missouri.

Hunters who harvest a deer from certain counties in the CWD Management Zone during the opening weekend must take their deer to a designated CWD sampling station.

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

BERNIE MAN ARRESTED ON RAPE CHARGES

A Bernie man is in custody in Stoddard County on rape charges.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 25 year old Adam Counts was booked Wednesday on two counts of rape or attempted rape - 1st degree and a single count of sodomy or attempted sodomy - 1st degree.

According to the probable cause affidavit, the charges stem from multiple incidents that occurred between January and July of this year.

During an interview with authorities, Counts admitted to having three sexual encounters with the victim.

He was booked into the Stoddard County Jail on a $75,000 cash only bond.

POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL VETERANS DAY PARADE TO BEGIN AT 9:15 AM

A parade has been scheduled for today in Poplar Bluff to honor area veterans.

According to school officials, the Poplar Bluff Middle School Veterans Day Parade will begin this morning at 9:15 am. The parade will start at Highland Drive Church and then loop through the Middle School.

The veterans will be cheered on by Poplar Bluff Middle School students, the Poplar Bluff High School Band, Cheerleaders, and ROTC, as well as the Junior High Pom Squad.

Veterans are asked to be at the Poplar Bluff Middle School by 8:40 am.

Officials say that while the parade will be for veterans only, anyone who wants to watch the parade can do so on the Poplar Bluff Middle School Facebook page.

STATE OFFICIALS STRESS SAFETY FOR NON-HUNTERS DURING HUNTING SEASON

Firearms deer season will open this weekend in Missouri and state officials are reminding non-hunters that they also need to practice safety measures when afield.

Officials say that non-hunters should wear bright clothing to be more visible, such as a bright orange hat, jacket, or pack.

Place a bright orange vest or bandana on canines who join you and remember to keep them leashed. Be aware that hunters are often most active during the early morning and late afternoon, when game animals are most active. Be especially aware of your own visibility during these times when light is dim.

Stay on designated trails. Trails are designed to improve the safety of public users and to protect sensitive habitats. Enjoying recreational activities only on designated trails will reduce the likelihood of entering hunting areas.

If you hear shooting, raise your voice, and let hunters know you are in the area.

This is also the time to be extra cautious and watching for deer while driving.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR VETERANS’ 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 Veterans’ Day.

Officials say that normal operations will resume on Monday.

SHOULDER WORK TO CAUSE DELAYS IN KENNETT AREA

Route EE in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane through the middle of next week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder work.

The work zone is located between Highway 25 and Covina Lane in Kennett.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Tuesday, November 14.

Thursday, November 9, 2023

PIEDMONT MAN ADMITS TO RECORDING SEXUAL ACTS WITH MINORS

A Piedmont man faces at least 15 years behind bars after admitting to making recordings of sex acts with minors.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 46 year old Tony Waites, of Piedmont, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor.

A court-approved search of Waites’ home discovered electronic devices that contained videos of Waites abusing a victim. There were also videos depicting numerous other children. Some were abused by Waites, others were filmed naked.

The Wayne County Sheriff’s Department and the FBI investigated the case.

The charge carries a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 30 years. Waites is scheduled to be sentenced on February 6th of next year.

ESSEX MAN KILLED IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH

An Essex man was killed Tuesday in a motorcycle crash.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 66 year old Randy Steward was riding the motorcycle on Route T, near Wappapello, when he ran off the right side of the road and overturned.

Steward, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

POPLAR BLUFF SWIMMERS TO COMPETE TODAY IN THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Six Poplar Bluff swimmers will be competing today in the Missouri All State Swimming and Diving championship.

According to Poplar Bluff Athletics Director Kent Keith, the preliminaries will begin today at noon at the St Peters Rec-Plex.

Poplar Bluff’s Carson Todd will be participating in the 50 meter and 100 meter Freestyle. Owen McDaniel will be representing Poplar Bluff in the 100 meter Breaststroke.

Poplar Bluff will also have three relay teams competing, the 200 Freestyle Relay will feature Todd, Isaac Cato, Cyrus Sagharichi, and Henry Duncan. Poplar Bluff’s 200 Medley Relay team includes Todd, McDaniel, Duncan, Sagharichi.

The Mules 400 Freestyle Relay will feature Duncan, Cato, Connor Wiggs, and Sagharichi.

DEER HUNTERS REMINDED OF MANDATORY CWD SAMPLING

With firearm deer season coming up, the Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding deer hunters that it will be holding mandatory chronic wasting disease sampling during the opening weekend.

Hunters who harvest deer in any counties in the CWD Management Zone on November 11th and 12th are required to take their harvested deer or the head on the day of harvest to one of MDC’s numerous CWD mandatory sampling stations located throughout the zone.

Southeast Missouri counties included in the CWD Management Zone include Ripley, Bollinger, and Oregon.

Hunters must present their deer to a CWD mandatory sampling station within the county of harvest, with a few exceptions. Sampling and test results are free.

You can find the sampling locations as well as all counties that are in the CWD Management Zone at mdc.mo.gov/cwd.

TEENAGER SERIOUSLY INJURED AFTER HITTING DEER WITH FOUR WHEELER

A teenager was flown to an area hospital Tuesday evening after hitting a deer with a four wheeler.

The incident occurred on Levee Road, two and a half miles southwest of Kennett.

The 15 year old male struck the deer with the vehicle, which then ran off the roadway and overturned.

The teen was flown to a Memphis hospital with serious injuries.

ALL MISSOURI CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS OLD NOW ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE A FREE BOOK EVERY MONTH

All Missouri children will get a chance to gain a love of reading.

All Missouri children under five years old are now able to register for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which is dedicated to inspiring a love of reading by providing age-appropriate books each month to children free of charge.

In order to receive books, a parent or guardian must register their child on the Imagination Library national website at ImaginationLibrary.com. Books will be mailed directly to the homes of registered children every month.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has already been available in some areas of the state thanks to the great work of the 57 local affiliates that distribute books to more than 17,000 Missouri children. Those children currently registered will be automatically enrolled in the new statewide program.

VETERANS DAY ASSEMBLY TO BE HELD TOMORROW IN FISK AND QULIN

Veterans will be honored during multiple celebrations this Friday in Butler County.

The Twin Rivers Elementary and Middle Schools will be recognizing local veterans during Veterans Day assemblies in both Fisk and Qulin.

The events will begin at 9:30 am at the Qulin Middle School Gymnasium and at 1:30 pm at the Fisk Middle School Gymnasium. Officials say that community members are welcome to attend.

WOMAN HIT BY UNOCCUPIED VEHICLE NEAR WAPPAPELLO

A Wappapello woman was struck by a vehicle Tuesday evening.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Terra Vires was hit by an unoccupied vehicle that had rolled on private property, three miles north of Wappapello.

Vires suffered serious injuries and was flown from the scene to a St. Louis hospital.

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS ANNUAL COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING DINNER SCHEDULED FOR FRIDAY

Poplar Bluff Schools and Chartwells will be holding their annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner this week.

According to officials, the meal will be free for families from 5 to 8 pm on Friday.

The event will be held at the Poplar Bluff High School Cafeteria.

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 this fall is illegal.

A hunter can be in violation if they take or attempt to take a deer by the aid of bait where the hunter knows or reasonably should know that the area is or has been baited. An area is considered baited for 10 days after complete removal of the bait.

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.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE FALL STUDENT CONCERT SET FOR NOVEMBER 21ST

Three Rivers College students will be sharing music with the community at a performance this month.

The Three Rivers College Music Department Fall Concert has been scheduled for 7 pm on Tuesday, November 21st at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

The concert will feature music from TRC students and community members. Admission to the show is free.

For more information, contact the Three Rivers College Music Department at 573-840-9639.

THURSDAY IS THE DEADLINE TO PURCHASE TAGS FOR BULKY ITEM PICKUP

Thursday will be the final day for Poplar Bluff residents to purchase tags for this month’s Bulky Item Pickup.

Residents can purchase bulk item tags from the City Collector’s office at City Hall for $20. The tags entitle you to the removal of four bulk items, such as couches or refrigerators. Tires may be collected for a charge of $3 per tire with a limit of four tires.

No construction materials or small items will be picked up and the program is for residential areas only.

The final day to purchase item tags at City Hall to be included in next week’s pick up will be Thursday due to Veterans Day on Friday. The pick up will be conducted on Tuesday, November 14th.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE PROJECT BEGINS TODAY NEAR DEXTER

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

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route 25 to Route 153 near Dexter.

Weather permitting, work will take place both today and tomorrow from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED THIS WEEK ON HIGHWAY 60

Eastbound Route 60 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane this week so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform pavement repairs. 

The work zone is located near Morehouse between County Roads 799 and 789.

Weather permitting, work will take place from noon to 3 p.m. both today and tomorrow.

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

RESIDENCE REPORTEDLY STRUCK BY GUNFIRE IN POPLAR BLUFF

A residence was reportedly struck by gunfire last week in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly after 5 pm Friday evening, officers responded to the area of Barron Road at Morrison for a report of shots fired in the area.

Witnesses say that a white male fired several rounds and left the area in a red Nissan Altima.

A subject on Morrison Road later reported that their residence was struck by rounds fired by the suspect.

POPLAR BLUFF LIONS CLUB CHILI DAY TO BE HELD TODAY

The Poplar Bluff Lions Club is hosting their annual Chili Day today.

Chili will be available for pickup from 11 am to 6 pm at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Grand Avenue. Dine in and delivery will be available from 11 am to 1:30 pm.

If you have questions, call 573-609-4683. Tickets are $10.

HUNTERS ENCOURAGED TO SHARE THEIR HARVEST WITH FAMILIES IN NEED

Hunters across the state of Missouri are being asked to share their harvest this fall 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.

WOMAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING PURSUIT IN STODDARD COUNTY

A woman was taken into custody over the weekend following a pursuit in Stoddard County.

According to a Probable Cause Affidavit, on November 3rd an officer observed a truck pulling a trailer with no registration. When the officer attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver failed to yield and a pursuit ensued, reaching speeds of 100 miles per hour.

The officer said that they observed a white male driver and a female passenger in the vehicle.

The pursuit continued until the vehicle came to a stop on Stoddard County Road 420 and both occupants fled on foot into a wooded area.

While searching the area, officers located a female subject, identified as 50 year old Amie Graham, of Essex. A search of her purse revealed a set of digital scales with white residue. A field test of the residue produced positive results for the presence of methamphetamine.

Graham has been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance and resisting arrest, detention, or stop by fleeing.

NEW SHOOTING COMPLEX OPENED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

A collaboration between the city of Campbell and the Missouri Department of Conservation has created a new place for shooting in Dunklin County.

The City of Campbell Shooting Range Complex opened to the public last week. The new city owned complex includes 100- and 50-yard rifle/pistol ranges, 25-yard pistol ranges, a trap field, an archery range, and restroom facilities. The trap field and archery range will be open to the public soon.

Project planning began in 2016, with construction starting nearly five years later. Since then, more than $370,000 has been devoted to the project’s completion.

BRIDGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Northbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane this week as crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation perform bridge repairs.

The section of roadway involved in the repairs is located between mile markers 62 and 63.

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

Monday, November 6, 2023

KACEY PROCTOR APPOINTED TO BUTLER COUNTY JUDGE POSITION

A Butler County official has been appointed to an area judgeship.

Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced Friday that Butler County Prosecuting Attorney Kacey Proctor will be taking on the role of Presiding Circuit Judge of the 36th Judicial Circuit.

Current Presiding Circuit Judge Michael Pritchett will be retiring on November 16th.

Proctor has served as prosecuting attorney in Butler County since 2019 and has previously held the assistant prosecuting attorney position in Ripley County, served as the municipal prosecutor for Poplar Bluff, and was appointed Prosecutor in Carter County in 2016.

Proctor graduated from Poplar Bluff High School in 2003, earned an Associates Degree from Three Rivers College in 2005, and later went on to obtain a Juris Doctorate at Saint Louis University School of Law in 2011.

He also serves as a captain in the Missouri Army National Guard.

In 2022, Proctor was named as the Prosecutor of the Year by the Missouri Bar Association.

KWOC News spoke exclusively with Proctor who wanted to let the community know about the respect he had for his predecessor.

I want to thank Judge Pritchett for the job that he did and the example that he set for me. As a young lawyer growing up underneath him I learned most of things that I know about the practice of law from him. I want to congratulate him on his retirement and wish him the best. He's had an amazing career. He's the finest and hardest working judge I've ever been in front of and I hope that he continues to serve as a senior judge going forward. I'm obviously deeply humbled that Governor Parson would have confidence and trust in me, enough to appoint me to serve as a presiding Circuit Judge of 36th Judicial Circuit and I want to thank him for that. I never imagined that I would be a Circuit Judge. I always saw myself trying cases and you know this opportunity opened up and I'm grateful to have the opportunity to serve in this role. You know as the prosecutor I’ve had a wonderful opportunity to work alongside those that serve day in and day out to protect this community and we have some amazing Law Enforcement Officers here. I'm really thankful that I got to work with them to keep this community safe. I do see myself doing this long term.You know this is the type of job that you make a career out of and I look forward to an opportunity to serve the citizens of the 36th Judicial Circuit for the foreseeable future.

BLOOMFIELD STUDENT PLACES 3RD IN NATION FOR FFA EXTEMPORANEOUS PUBLIC SPEAKING

A local FFA student was recognized for his speaking ability during the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis.

Bloomfield’s Wyatt Hendley placed 3rd in the National FFA Extemporaneous Public Speaking Leadership Development Event.

The event is designed to recognize outstanding FFA members for their ability to prepare and present a factual speech on a specific agricultural issue in a well thought out and logical manner.

Members select one topic from a choice of categories, have thirty minutes to prepare a four to six minute speech, and respond to five minutes of questions following delivery.

DEER SEASON BEGINS ON SATURDAY

Hunters from across Missouri will be heading to the woods this 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 11th through the 21st and the opening weekend is the most popular two days for most deer hunters in Missouri.

Hunters who harvest a deer from certain counties in the CWD Management Zone during the opening weekend must take their deer to a designated CWD sampling station.

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

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING FATAL FIRE IN NEELYVILLE

A fatal structure fire is under investigation in Butler County.

The fire happened at around 9 am Saturday morning at a residence located near the intersection of Hart Street and 2nd Street in Neelyville.

Crews found one person dead inside the residence. Butler County Coroner Jim Akers tells KWOC News the subject has been identified as 64 year old Mickey Hull, of Neelyville.

An investigation is being conducted by the Butler County Fire Department, Butler County Sheriff’s Department, the Butler County Coroner’s Office, and the State Fire Marshal's Office.

Akers says a preliminary investigation indicates the fire was caused by an indoor wooden stove and no foul play is suspected at this time.

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK AND KILLED BY A VEHICLE IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

A pedestrian was struck and killed by a vehicle Friday night in Dunklin County.

According to the Kennett Police Department, shortly before 10 pm Friday, officers responded to Highway 412 East for a motor vehicle crash involving a pedestrian.

The pedestrian, identified as 25 year old Kelsey Midkiff, of Kennett, was transported to a Hayti hospital where she was pronounced dead.

INMATE BACK IN CUSTODY AFTER EARLY MORNING ESCAPE

A Northeast Arkansas inmate had a few hours of freedom Friday morning before being back behind bars.

According to Greene County Sheriff Brad Snyder, at around 2:45 am Friday morning, 27 year old Shana Whitaker, of Rector, was being prepared for her return to the Greene County Detention Center after treatment at an area hospital.

While being loaded into the van, Whitaker was able to break free and begin running from the area.

She was located and taken back into custody a few hours later.

According to the Greene County Sheriff’s Office website, Whitaker was being held on charges of theft of property for a firearm and failure to appear.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED TODAY FOR REPAIRS

Route Z in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane this morning so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform pavement repairs.

The work zone will be located from County Road 717 to Dayton Street in Bernie.

Weather permitting, work will take place this morning from 8 a.m. to noon.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

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

The section of roadway being reduced is located from County Road 560 to County Road 556 near Malden.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Crews will also be reducing Route 153 this afternoon between New Madrid County Road 534 and Route 162 near Risco. That project is scheduled for noon to 4 pm.

Friday, November 3, 2023

MULES FOOTBALL TEAM HOSTS FARMINGTON TONIGHT FOR DISTRICT SEMIFINALS

The Poplar Bluff Mules football team is preparing to host the district semifinals tonight.

The Mules earned the top seed in the Class 5, District 1 football tournament and will be welcoming the five seed Farmington Knights.

Farmington advanced to the district semifinals with a 22-16 overtime win at Webster Groves last week. The winner of tonight’s game will face the winner of the other semi-final between Cape Central and St. Mary’s in next week’s district final.

Live audio coverage of the Mules semifinal game will be provided by Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM.

Live video coverage will be available for $10 plus fees at MSHSAA.tv.

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 10th, 2024.

14TH ANNUAL HOWLING AT THE MOON SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT

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

“Howling at the Moon,” the 14th annual fall benefit for the AWA is scheduled for 6 to 10 pm at the Westwood Center in Poplar Bluff.

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

RAIDERS TIP OFF BASKETBALL SEASON TONIGHT

The nationally ranked Three Rivers College Lady Raiders got a win in their opening game of the year this week, and now the men will be trying to do the same.

The Raiders will be hosting Dallas College North Lake tonight to start the 2023 Basketball season.

Tip off is scheduled for 7 pm. There will be little rest for the Raiders as they will turn around on Saturday and host John A. Logan College.

LAKE ROAD ELEMENTARY TO HOST INAUGURAL COSTUME DASH THIS WEEKEND

Lake Road Elementary will be hosting a 5k and 1-mile fun run this weekend.

The inaugural Costume Dash is scheduled for 8 am on Saturday, November 4th at 986 State Highway AA.

Check in will begin at 7 am, with entry costing $20 for the 5K and $10 for the fun run/walk. Entrants are encouraged to wear their halloween costumes.

All proceeds from the event will go to the elementary school activity fund.

CONTRACT AWARDED FOR PAVEMENT RESURFACING PROJECT IN BUTLER COUNTY

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission has awarded a contract for a pavement resurfacing project in Butler County.

According to officials, an $831,000 contract was given to Pace Construction Company for the project on Route 60, beginning at Route 60/67 and continuing for five miles to the west.

Additional information about the project, including a timeline and what impacts there will be to traffic, will be released prior to the start of construction.

Thursday, November 2, 2023

TWO INJURED IN ATTEMPTED HOME INVASION IN POPLAR BLUFF

Two people were injured following an attempted home invasion in Poplar Bluff.

Captain Dave Sutton with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that at around 4 am early Wednesday morning, officers responded to a report of an attempted home invasion robbery at a residence in the 100 Block of West Lexington Avenue.

Victims at the scene told police that two or three people dressed in dark clothing tried to force entry through the front door of the residence and fired several shots through the door before fleeing the scene.

Two victims suffered moderate injuries and were transported by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Detective Danny Hicks with the Poplar Buff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

FOUR PEOPLE INJURED IN MULTI VEHICLE CRASH SOUTH OF POPLAR BLUFF

Four people were injured in a multi vehicle crash Wednesday afternoon near Poplar Bluff.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred on Missouri Highway 53, seven miles south of Poplar Bluff at around 1 pm on Wednesday.

A vehicle struck the rear of another vehicle, causing a chain reaction where a total of four vehicles were damaged.

Three people received minor injuries and were taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital, while a fourth had moderate injuries and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

OVER TWO THOUSAND BIRDS HARVESTED DURING FALL FIREARMS TURKEY SEASON

Missouri hunters harvested over 2,000 birds during the fall firearm turkey season.

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation shows turkey hunters checked 2,219 birds during Missouri’s 2023 fall firearms turkey season, which ran through the month of October.

Officials say that last year, hunters only harvested 1,844 birds during the season

The current portion of archery turkey season will continue until November 10th, before taking a 12 day break.

BODY FOUND IN NORTHERN BUTLER COUNTY

A body was found Wednesday in northern Butler County.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC news that the body of a deceased white male was discovered by Missouri Department of Conservation employees at around 3 pm.

The body was found on MDC property off of Butler County Road 507.

Dobbs says that at this time, there is no foul play suspected.

Butler County Coroner Jim Akers tells KWOC News that the body has been identified as a 56 year old male. The subject is believed to not have prepared for the cold and died from the elements.

Per requests from the family, the subject’s name will not be released.

NATURAL GAS RATES GO DOWN FOR SOME RESIDENTS IN BUTLER COUNTY

Natural gas rates have gone down for some residents in Butler County.

According to state officials, natural gas customers of Ameren Missouri will see natural gas rates change under a filing that took effect at the beginning of this month.

The natural gas rates have decreased by approximately three cents per hundred cubic feet.

Ameren Missouri serves approximately 135,400 natural gas customers in 25 Missouri counties, including Butler, Scott, and Stoddard.

MISSOURI COLD WEATHER RULE BACK IN EFFECT

The start of November means Missouri residents are protected by the state's "cold weather" rule, which bars cutoffs of heat in freezing weather.

The rule applies to natural gas and electric utilities regulated by the Public Service Commission. It prohibits shut offs from November through March, whenever the temperature is predicted to fall below 32 degrees in the following 24 hours.

It also provides more lenient payment terms for residents to reconnect natural gas or electrical service.

Municipal utilities, cooperatives, and companies providing propane by truck are not subject to the rule.

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

LADY RAIDERS TIP OFF BASKETBALL SEASON TONIGHT

The nationally ranked Three Rivers College Lady Raiders will be starting their campaign for another trip to the NJCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament tonight.

The Lady Raiders will be traveling to Tennessee to take on Dyersburg State Community College in the first game of the season for both teams.

Tip off is scheduled for 6 pm.

Three Rivers was ranked 12th in the preseason NJCAA rankings.

DUDLEY WOMAN FACING TWO COUNTS OF ABUSE OR NEGLECT OF A CHILD

A Dudley woman has been taken into custody on multiple counts of abuse or neglect of a child.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 36 year old Kristy Corzine was arrested this week on a Stoddard county warrant for two counts of abuse or neglect of a child and endangering the welfare of a child creating substantial risk.

A Stoddard County deputy and a Juvenile and Children’s Division investigator had recently made contact with Corzine and two juveniles at an area residence. During the contact the deputy observed a large amount of live cockroaches in the living room and kitchen areas.

The deputy also observed exposed wiring at multiple locations as well as unsanitary conditions.

The two juveniles were removed from the residence and placed into protective state custody without further incident.

Corzine’s arraignment was held Tuesday morning and she is scheduled to appear in court again on Thursday.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL NAMED ESPN HONOR ROLL SCHOOL

A local school is being celebrated for their work creating a school of inclusion.

Poplar Bluff High School has been named as one of 10 schools in the Midwest region as a ESPN Honor Roll School.

The ten schools selected are Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools, which is a program aimed at promoting social inclusion through intentionally planned and implemented activities affecting systems-wide change in K–12 schools and across college campuses.

MULES FOOTBALL TEAM HOSTS FARMINGTON THIS WEEK FOR DISTRICT SEMIFINALS

The Poplar Bluff Mules football team is preparing to host the district semifinals this week.

The Mules earned the top seed in the Class 5, District 1 football tournament and will be welcoming the five seed Farmington Knights this Friday night.

Farmington advanced to the district semifinals with a 22-16 overtime win at Webster Groves last week. The winner of Friday night’s game will face the winner of the other semi-final between Cape Central and St. Mary’s in next week’s district final.

Live audio coverage of the Mules semifinal game will be provided by Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM.

Live video coverage will be available for $10 plus fees at MSHSAA.tv.

STATE CONGRESSMAN FROM SOUTHEAST MISSOURI ANNOUNCES HE WILL NOT RUN FOR REELECTION

A member of the Missouri House of Representatives from Southeast Missouri has announced he will not seek reelection.

Darrell Atchison, representative of Missouri House District 153, posted on Facebook last week that he has decided not to run for the seat in 2024.

He cited life changes and the amount of time he spends away from home as reasons for his decision.

Atchison has held the seat since 2021, which covers all of Carter, Ripley, and Oregon counties, as well as parts of Shannon, Wayne, and Howell counties.

VARIOUS BIRD HUNTING SEASONS TO BEGIN TODAY IN MISSOURI

Hunting seasons for various birds are beginning today in Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, hunting seasons are scheduled to begin today for pheasants, quails, and crows.

Officials say that pheasant and quail hunting will both be available through January 15th of next year.

Crow season will be open through March 3rd.

Information on hunting limits and allowed methods is available on the Department of Conservation’s website at mdc.mo.gov.

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

MAN FACING CHARGES AFTER TWO JUVENILES WERE FOUND WALKING ALONE ON A STODDARD COUNTY STREET

A Dexter man is facing multiple charges, including abandonment of a child.

According to a probable cause affidavit, on October 27th, a patrol officer was dispatched after a report of two juveniles walking unattended in a roadway.

At the scene, the officer made contact with a witness, who told the officer that they had found the two young male juveniles, ages five and two, and returned them to their home, where there was no parent or guardian.

While the officer was investigating they found no adult presence inside the residence. The officer also found several items that could be accessed by the juveniles, including marijuana, a nicotine vape, and an unmarked bottle containing medication.

Contact information was found for the father of the juveniles, identified as Dustin Linkous. When Linkous returned to the residence, he told the officer that he had fed the juveniles around six pm. Believing them to be asleep, Linkous then departed the residence and walked to the Dexter Pond.

Linkous has been charged with two counts of abandonment of a child, abuse or neglect of a child, and endangering the welfare of a child creating substantial risk. He is being held in the Stoddard County Jail and is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday morning.

HIT AND RUN NEAR DONIPHAN LEAVES ONE MAN INJURED

A weekend hit and run in Ripley County left one man injured.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 60 year old Larry Riggs, of Fairdealing, was struck by an unknown vehicle on US Highway 160, east of the Doniphan City Limits. The vehicle then left the scene.

The incident happened shortly after midnight on Sunday.

Riggs suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

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.

YOUTH HUNTERS HARVEST OVER 11,000 DEER IN MISSOURI

Youth hunters in Missouri took over 11,000 deer during the early youth portion of the 2023 deer hunting season.

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation shows that young hunters ages 6 through 15 harvested 11,118 deer during the hunting season which ran on October 28th and 29th.

Youth hunters harvested 13,877 during last year’s early youth portion.

Only two southeast Missouri counties came in the top 20 of the state, with Howell County placing 7th with 197 deer checked, followed by Shannon County at 11th with 155 deer harvested.

KENNETT MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE WEAPONS CHARGES

Authorities have arrested a Kennett man on multiple weapon charges following multiple reports from Sunday.

According to the Cape Girardeau Police Department, officers were dispatched to a residence on Sheridan Drive where a victim told them that a male subject had attempted to open the back door of the residence. As the victim approached the back door, the subject began running away.

Officers made contact with two other people in the area who advised that a male subject had pointed a firearm at them and demanded money.

The subject, identified as 19 year old Shantario Evans, of Kennett, was later located by officers. As an officer approached Evans and turned on his emergency lights, Evans fled on foot. He was taken into custody after a short foot pursuit and officers located a loaded firearm in Evans's possession.

Evans has been formally charged with burglary, resisting arrest, three counts of armed criminal action, and two counts of attempted robbery. He was held on a $100,000 cash-only bond.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON ROUTE 61

Route 61 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from County Road 502 to Bloomfield Road in New Madrid.

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

Monday, October 30, 2023

TWO IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO BUTLER COUNTY SHOOTING

Updating a story we brought to you last week, two people have been taken into custody in connection to a shooting in Butler County.

According to Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs, one person was struck during the incident on Highway 53 in Qulin.

Dobbs says that the shooting stemmed from an earlier altercation at the residence and someone from inside the home returned fire, striking one of the suspects.

The condition of the person shot has not been released.

Dobbs says that two arrests have been made, and further arrests are anticipated in the near future. The names of the subjects arrested were also not released.

WAPPAPELLO MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH

A Wappapello man was seriously injured in a motorcycle crash last week.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 53 year old Jeffrey Holman was riding the motorcycle on Route D, in Wayne County, when he failed to negotiate a curve, ran off the roadway, and overturned.

Holman suffered serious injuries and was taken by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

12 BLACK BEARS HARVESTED DURING MISSOURI BEAR SEASON

Over 10 bears were harvested during Missouri’s 2023 black bear hunting season.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri hunters harvested 12 black bears between October 16th and 25th.

More than 5,370 hunters applied during May for 400 permits for the season with the maximum total harvest being 40 bears. Of the 400 hunters selected through a random drawing of all applicants, 342 hunters purchased permits for the season.

Nine bears were harvested in Bear Management Zone one , which comprises the Southwest and South central parts of the state. Three bears were harvested in BMZ two which includes the Southeastern portion of the state.

WATERFOWL REFUGES TO BE CLOSED TO VEHICLE AND BOAT TRAFFIC DURING DUCK SEASON

Southeast Missouri Waterfowl refuges will be closed to certain kinds of traffic beginning this weekend.

According to the US Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake, during duck season portions of the Asher Creek, Lost Creek, and the Holliday Landing Waterfowl Refuges will be closed to vehicle and boat traffic, however foot traffic is still welcome unless otherwise designated by posted signage.

Officials say the refuges were established to provide resting places for migrating waterfowl in the Mississippi flyway.

No firearms hunting is permitted for any wildlife species in these refuges, and the hunting of any migratory birds by any method is prohibited.

For more information on waterfowl hunting, refuge boundaries and vehicle use policies, contact the Wappapello Lake Management Office at 573-222-8562.

JUDICIAL OPENING FILLED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

A Judicial opening in New Madrid County has been filled.

Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced on Friday that Brandon Sanchez, of New Madrid, was appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for New Madrid County in the 34th Judicial Circuit.

Sanchez is currently the owner of the Law Office of Brandon M. Sanchez, LLC. He holds Bachelors of Arts in criminal justice and psychology from the University of Texas–San Antonio and a Juris Doctor from Southern Illinois University.

Sanchez will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable Joshua Underwood as Circuit Judge.

14TH 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 14th annual fall benefit for the AWA is scheduled for 6 to 10 pm on Friday, November 3rd at the Westwood Center in Poplar Bluff.

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

Friday, October 27, 2023

NUMEROUS POWER POLES SNAPPED IN POPLAR BLUFF

Power was out in multiple areas Thursday afternoon in Poplar Bluff.

According to Municipal Utilities, numerous power poles were snapped along Vine Street, west of South Westwood Boulevard.

Power was out for a period of time at multiple locations on South Westwood and Pine Street, among other locations.

Crews quickly responded to the scene to restore power to area residents.

According to a report on the National Weather Service website, gusty winds were listed as the reason the poles were blown over.

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE IN POPLAR BLUFF

A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle Thursday evening in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred on the east side of Poplar Bluff at the intersection of Pine and E Streets at around 7:43 pm.

The pedestrian, identified as 62 year old Timothy Johnson, of Poplar Bluff,, was seriously injured and transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital before being flown to a Memphis hospital.

ONE PERSON SHOT IN BUTLER COUNTY

A subject was shot Thursday in Butler County.

According to Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs, one person was struck during a shooting on Highway 53 in Southern Butler County.

The condition of the victim has not been released.

Sheriff Dobbs says that his department is conducting an investigation into the incident.

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

ROUTE CHOSEN FOR FUTURE INTERSTATE-57 IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Federal officials have chosen the route the future Interstate-57 will take in Northeast Arkansas.

Future Interstate 57 will connect Walnut Ridge to the Missouri State Line in southern Butler County with a 42 mile, four lane interstate highway.

The route will begin at the Highway 67/Highway 412 interchange in Walnut Ridge, extend north across the Black River east of Pocahontas, then northeast towards Corning, and finally north to the Missouri State line.

The route was chosen due to the high economic growth potential, fewer impacts to properties and farms, fewer stream impacts, close alignment with Highway 67, and being preferred by the public and the Missouri Department of Transportation.

The first phase of construction along this alignment will build a bypass around the City of Corning. Construction of this segment is currently expected to begin in 2025.

DISTRICT PLAYOFFS BEGIN TODAY FOR AREA FOOTBALL TEAMS

The Friday night lights will be much brighter beginning tonight in Southeast Missouri as the district playoffs begin.

In Class 1, Hayti will travel to Miller to take on the Miller Cardinals.

Class 2 will see Caruthersville host Kelly, Malden travel to New Madrid County Central, and Scott City hosting East Prairie.

In Class 3, Kennett will play at Herculaneum, while Sikeston will go to Perryville in Class 4.

In Class 5, Poplar Bluff earned a bye for the first round, so they will wait for the winner of the matchup between Farmington and Webster Groves. Cape Central will also be hosting Mehlville tonight.

All games tonight will kick-off at 7 pm.

NATIONAL FIRST RESPONDERS DAY COMING UP ON SATURDAY

Remember to take an opportunity this weekend to thank a first responder.

National First Responders Day is on October 28th and is used to honor the men and women who work every day to keep our communities safe.

First responders include firefighters, paramedics, emergency medical technicians, police officers, and dispatchers.

AREA LAW ENFORCEMENT TO HOST DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT

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

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

Organizations who will be participating include the Poplar Bluff, Doniphan, and Kennett Police Departments. You can find a drop off location in your area by going to DeaTakeBack.com.

MAN ARRESTED ON COCAINE CHARGE IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A Southeast Missouri man was taken into custody Wednesday on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Joshua Wilson, of Portageville, was arrested in Pemiscot County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - cocaine.

Wilson is also facing charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to display valid plates.

HEARTLAND YOUTH FOOTBALL LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP COMING THIS WEEKEND TO POPLAR BLUFF

The Poplar Bluff Elite Travel Football team will be hosting the Heartland Youth Football League’s championship this weekend.

The 3rd and 4th Grade Poplar Bluff Maroon team will be playing Jackson in the championship game at noon on Sunday at Fred M. Morrow Stadium.

Organizers say that this is the first time that Poplar Bluff will host the event.

Thursday, October 26, 2023

WOMAN ARRESTED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY ON STATUTORY RAPE WARRANT

A Southeast Missouri woman has been taken into custody in New Madrid County on a statutory rape warrant.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 25 year old Alyssa Warren, of Howardville, was arrested Tuesday night, shortly before 10 pm.

According to a Probable Cause Affidavit, a juvenile gave an interview in April saying that they had an inappropriate encounter with Warren.

Warren’s arraignment is scheduled for 10 am this morning in New Madrid.

PBHS DRAMA CLUB TO PERFORM MUSICAL BEGINNING NOVEMBER 30TH

The PBHS Drama Club is preparing for their next performance.

The Drama Club will be presenting R.L. Stine’s “Goosebumps The Musical: Phantom of the Auditorium” beginning at 7 pm on Thursday, November 30th.

There are additional performances scheduled for 7 pm on Saturday, December 2nd, and at 2 pm on Sunday, December 3rd.

Tickets for the show at the Kay Porter Theater will be available for $5.

DEER HUNTERS REMINDED OF MANDATORY CWD SAMPLING

With firearm deer season coming up, the Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding deer hunters that it will be holding mandatory chronic wasting disease sampling during the opening weekend.

Hunters who harvest deer in any counties in the CWD Management Zone on November 11th and 12th are required to take their harvested deer or the head on the day of harvest to one of MDC’s numerous CWD mandatory sampling stations located throughout the zone.

Southeast Missouri counties included in the CWD Management Zone include Ripley, Bollinger, and Oregon.

Hunters must present their deer to a CWD mandatory sampling station within the county of harvest, with a few exceptions. Sampling and test results are free.

You can find the sampling locations as well as all counties that are in the CWD Management Zone at mdc.mo.gov/cwd.

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

Ladies can have a fun night out next 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 10th. 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.

SEVERAL SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS COMMUNITIES CHOSEN TO RECEIVE FUNDING FOR PROJECTS

Several area communities have been chosen to receive funding through the States’ Economic Development Assistance Program.

The Delta Regional Authority is awarding over $17.9 million dollars in investments to 46 projects across eight states, including Missouri and Arkansas. Funding for this program was made available, in part, by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

In Missouri, the Bootheel Technical Training Center project in Poplar Bluff has been awarded more than $683,000 to offer training for construction, linemen, and advanced manufacturing.

The Ellsinore Fire Station Facility project has been awarded more than $274,000 to construct a new firehouse for the Ellsinore Rural Fire Protection District.

In Arkansas, the Workforce Training Expansion – Welding Space Reconfiguration and Renovation project in Pocahontas has been awarded more than $507,000 to renovate Black River Technical College’s welding space on its Pocahontas campus.

The Skills to Launch Program project in Paragould has been awarded more than $394,000 for the 10-week scholarship-based hands-on program designed to provide technical skills and soft skills training for Greene County’s labor force.

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 Dexter 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 November 1st.

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

RISCO MAN FACING CHARGES FOLLOWING CRASH THAT LEFT TWO JUVENILES INJURED

A Risco man is facing multiple charges following a weekend crash that left two juveniles injured.

According to Clay County Sheriff Ronnie Cole, shortly after 8 pm Saturday night, dispatch received a call about a vehicle being run off the road at the St. Francis River on Highway 90. The caller also gave a description of the vehicle that had run the first vehicle off the road.

Cole says that some type of altercation had occurred between the occupants of both vehicles prior to the incident.

The two occupants of the vehicle at the bridge were both 17 years of age, one was from Kennett and the other was from Portageville. One was airlifted at the scene and the other was transported by ambulance to a Piggott Hospital.

The second vehicle was stopped later Saturday night by the Piggott Police Department.

The driver of the vehicle, identified as 20 year old Bobby Clark, of Risco, was taken into custody and booked into the Clay County Detention Center on charges of felony aggravated assault, obstructing governmental operations, reckless driving, and leaving the scene of an accident.

LADY RAIDERS EARN SPOT IN NJCAA PRESEASON TOP 25 POLL

The opening of the new basketball season is a week away and the Three Rivers College Lady Raiders have already earned national attention.

The Lady Raiders have been ranked #12 in the NJCAA Preseason top 25 poll. Three Rivers will tip off the new season at 6 pm on November 1st at Dyersburg State Community College.

The Lady Raiders will also participate in a scrimmage this Friday against the University of Central Arkansas in Conway.

PBRMC CONDUCTED DRILL WITH LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ON TUESDAY

The Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center held a drill yesterday with area emergency responders.

The hospital conducted a mass decontamination drill which simulated a Highway 67 chemical spill response from local law enforcement, fire departments, emergency medical services personnel, and the hospital.

In the event of a chemical spill, actions are taken to maintain a safe environment for healthcare staff while care for patients is being delivered.

Officials say that the hospital regularly practices its emergency and crisis response plans by conducting drills designed to exercise those procedures.

DROP BOXES SET UP TO DONATE BOOKS TO AREA CHILDREN

Drop boxes have been set up in Poplar Bluff for residents to donate books to area children.

The Poplar Bluff Library is working with Altrusa to host the Santa Land Book Drive over the next couple of months.

Anyone can drop off a new or gently used children’s book in the donation drop boxes at either branch of the Poplar Bluff Library through November 30th.

The books will then be given away to children who attend Santa Land in Poplar Bluff on December 5th.

PUBLIC INPUT SOUGHT FOR ELEVEN POINT STATE PARK DEVELOPMENT PLAN

A survey is underway to gauge the public's opinion on a conceptual development for Eleven Point State Park.

According to officials with Missouri State Parks, the survey kickstarts the conceptual development planning process and input regarding the park’s recreational opportunities, infrastructure and amenities will help guide the park’s development.

Eleven Point State Park is located along Highway Y, in the Couch area.

The survey will be available through early November at MoStateParks.com/CDP.

TODAY IS BUCKLE UP, PHONE DOWN DAY IN MISSOURI

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

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.

In August, the Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law took effect in Missouri, prohibiting all drivers from using a handheld electronic communication device while driving.

Under the law, drivers are prohibited from physically holding or supporting a cell phone with any part of their body; manually typing, writing, sending, or reading text-based messages; recording, posting, sending or broadcasting video, including video calls and social media posts; and watching a video or movie.

The law aims to address distracted driving, which contributed to crashes that claimed the lives of more than 800 people across the state from 2012-2021.

Tuesday, October 24, 2023

HOUSE AND VEHICLE DAMAGED BY GUNFIRE IN POPLAR BLUFF

Poplar Bluff residents reported that their property was damaged by gunfire over the weekend.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly after 10 pm Saturday night, officers responded to a residence on North 10th Street for a report of shots fired into a residence.

At the scene, officers found that the house and a car parked in the driveway were both damaged by gunfire.

No one in the home was injured.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE MUSIC DEPARTMENT TO HOST FALL SHOWCASE TONIGHT

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

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 tonight at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

MULTIPLE AREA SCHOOLS AWARDED GRANTS TO INCREASE RECRUITMENT OF QUALITY TEACHERS

Multiple Southeast Missouri schools have been chosen to receive grant money from the state.

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has awarded the first-ever state-funded “Grow Your Own” grants to 125 local education agencies.

The one-time grant of $10,000 is so schools can create or strengthen their local “Grow Your Own” program, designed to increase recruitment of quality teachers across the state.

Some of the grant recipients include the Twin Rivers, Van Buren, Bloomfield, Clearwater, and Puxico school districts.

RIPLEY COUNTY MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

A Ripley County man was taken into custody Monday on multiple drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Ryan Murrow of Doniphan, was arrested shortly after 11 am on two felony charges of possession of a controlled substance. One of the charges was for methamphetamine.

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

PLANTS GROWN BY PBHS STUDENTS AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE

A sale is going on at Poplar Bluff High School to help the local FFA.

PBHS is selling mums grown by agriculture students from 8 a.m.-3 p.m., in the High School front office.

The plants are available in assorted colors for $15 apiece , or two for $25.

All proceeds from the sale go to support the PBHS FFA.

STATE OFFICIALS REMINDING MOTORISTS TO LOOK OUT FOR DEER

With fall upon us, Missouri officials are warning motorists to watch for deer.

MoDOT State Maintenance Director Natalie Roark 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 occur in October and November each year, with the largest number taking 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 3,699 traffic crashes involving a deer. In these crashes, there were five fatalities and 424 people were injured.

According to State Farm Insurance, the Show-Me State now ranks 10th in the country for potential animal collisions – up from 14th last year – with a 1 in 80 chance of hitting an animal while driving.

Monday, October 23, 2023

CAMPBELL MAN DIES AFTER BEING HIT BY A VEHICLE IN THE POPLAR BLUFF AREA

A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle Friday morning in the Poplar Bluff area.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred shortly after 6 am on Business Highway 67, one mile south of Poplar Bluff.

60 year old Cecil Thacker, of Campbell was the pedestrian hit and he was pronounced dead a short time later at the scene by Butler County Coroner Jim Akers.

The driver of the vehicle was not injured in the incident.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

A Poplar Bluff man is dead following a single vehicle crash in Carter County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49 year old Joseph Carter, of Poplar Bluff, was driving Saturday afternoon on County Road 347 when his vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree.

Carter was pronounced dead at the scene by the Carter County Coroner.

POPLAR BLUFF EARNS TOP SEED IN DISTRICT FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

The Poplar Bluff Mules have earned the top seed in the Class 5, District 1 football playoffs.

The Mules finished the regular season with a 5-4 record and the second highest playoff point total in the District. However, since they won their game against top point getter Cape Central, that allowed the Mules to jump the Tigers for the top spot.

Since there are seven teams in the district, the Mules earned a bye to the semi-finals along with home field advantage for the entire District Playoffs.

Poplar Bluff will take the field again on Friday, November 3rd, where they will meet the winner of the matchup between Webster Groves and Farmington.

AG CONNECT 2024 SET FOR FEBRUARY IN POPLAR BLUFF

Ag Connect 2024 is coming in February to Poplar Bluff.

The Ag Industry conference will be held on Friday, February 2nd and Saturday, February 3rd.

Ag Connect, put on by Three Rivers College and the University of Missouri Extension, is an ag-focused event with breakout sessions designed to help area farmers grow their business.

More details will be released at trcc.edu/events.

DITCH REPAIRS TO FORCE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF BUTLER COUNTY ROAD

Route VV in Butler County will be temporarily closed as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform ditch repairs.

The work zone is located from Route B to County Road 604.

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

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON US HIGHWAY 60 IN CARTER COUNTY

Westbound U.S. Route 60 in Carter County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction this week so contractor crews can perform pavement repairs.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway involved in the repairs is located from Route M to County Road 109 near Van Buren.

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

Friday, October 20, 2023

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING HEAD ON COLLISION

One man is dead and another was injured following a head on collision Wednesday morning.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the crash occurred on State Highway 34, in Greene County, when a vehicle driven by 33 year old Timothy Spence, of Paragould, crossed into the opposite lane of traffic and struck another vehicle head on.

Officials say that Spence was killed in the wreck.

The driver of the second vehicle was injured and transported to an area hospital.

THIS WEEK IS NATIONAL SCHOOL BUS SAFETY WEEK

This week is National School Bus Safety Week and parents are being encouraged to make sure their kids are safe around school buses.

When your kids are waiting for the school bus, have them wait in a location where the driver can see them while driving down the street.

Warn children that if they drop something getting on and off the bus, they should never pick it up. Instead, they should tell the driver and follow the driver’s instructions.

If you meet your child at the bus stop after school, wait on the side where the child will be dropped off, not across the street. Children can be so excited to see you after school that they dash across the street and forget the safety rules.

Poplar Bluff Transportation Director Jon McKinney is thanking the Poplar Bluff Schools transportation staff for everything that they do to keep the over 2000 students they transport each day safe.

POPLAR BLUFF BUSINESS CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY TODAY

A Poplar Bluff institution is celebrating 50 years of doing business in the area today.

Poplar Bluff Monument Works is hosting an event from 11 am to 1 pm today at 1969 South Westwood Boulevard.

There will be food, tours, and live demonstrations available during the event. Attendees can also start the planning process for when they will need the business services.

For more information, visit PBMonumnet.com.

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 today 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.

STODDARD COUNTY MAN SENTENCED FOR SELLING MACHINE GUNS

A Stoddard County man has been sentenced for his role in a conspiracy to sell machine guns.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 41 year old Edward Hardin was sentenced on Thursday to 21 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to sell devices that convert AR-style rifles into fully-automatic weapons.

Officials say that Hardin supplied his co-defendant 28 year old Sidney Scowden, also of Stoddard County, with the devices, also known as “lightning links.”

Scowden sent a Snapchat message to a confidential informant for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in August of 2022, offering to sell a lightning link. Eight days later, she sold three of the devices for $1,500 to the informant, saying her source bought a link for $10,000 and made copies. Scowden sold more devices over the next couple of months.

Hardin pleaded guilty in April to a charge of conspiracy to distribute machine guns. Scowden pleaded guilty in February to conspiracy and three counts of transferring a machine gun. She was sentenced in May to 18 months in prison.

PBHS UNIFIED CHAMPIONS TO HOST 5K FUNDRAISER THIS WEEKEND

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

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.

OZARK HERITAGE FESTIVAL BEGINS TODAY IN PIEDMONT

The 46th Annual Ozark Heritage Festival begins today in Piedmont.

The two day festival will feature multiple attractions, including live music, a carnival, food trucks, kids events, a car show, and more.

There will also be a parade beginning at 10 am on Saturday, featuring the theme “Celebrating 75 years of Clearwater Lake.”

For more information, visit the Piedmont Area Chamber of Commerce website.