Friday, April 5, 2024
ONE DEAD IN CONNECTION TO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CRASH
One person has died from injuries he received in a crash earlier this week.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred Wednesday afternoon when a vehicle driven by 40 year old Heder Gonzalez, of Senath, pulled into the path of another vehicle on US Highway 412 in Dunklin County.
Gonzalez suffered serious injuries in the crash, while the driver of the second vehicle received minor injuries. Both were transported to a Paragould hospital.
ONE DEAD IN CONNECTION TO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CRASH
One person has died from injuries he received in a crash earlier this week.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred Wednesday afternoon when a vehicle driven by 40 year old Heder Gonzalez, of Senath, pulled into the path of another vehicle on US Highway 412 in Dunklin County.
Gonzalez suffered serious injuries in the crash, while the driver of the second vehicle received minor injuries. Both were transported to a Paragould hospital.
Gonzalez was later transferred to a Memphis hospital where he passed away early Thursday morning.
SOLAR ECLIPSE TO DARKEN SKIES ON MONDAY
The skies will be darker than usual for a small time on Monday.
A solar eclipse will begin in the Poplar Bluff area at 12:39 pm on Monday, with the sun being completely covered by the moon from 1:56 to 2 pm. The eclipse will come to an end at 3:15 pm.
If you are planning to watch the eclipse, remember to wear appropriate glasses. Ensure that the solar eclipse viewing glasses you have are authentic and properly rated.
The main viewing station in Poplar Bluff will be at the Poplar Bluff High School Football Stadium. The gates will open at 9 am and entry is $5.
NUMEROUS EVENTS PLANNED FOR THIS WEEKEND AHEAD OF THE ECLIPSE
Numerous events are planned in Poplar Bluff this weekend ahead of the eclipse on Monday.
Tonight will see the Opry return to the Rodgers Theatre and Night Golf will be played at Ozark Ridge Golf Course. The Margaret Harwell Art Museum will also kick off the Total Eclipse of the Arts festival today.
Saturday will kick off with the Wolf Creek Trail Run at 8 am. There will also be the Total Eclipse of the Bluff music festival and the Missouri Highlands Healthcare Over the Moon for the 80’s event in downtown Poplar Bluff.
The Black River Coliseum will be hosting the classic rock band Night Ranger Saturday night.
On Sunday, the Rodgers Theatre will be holding a free viewing of Back to the Future. Jeff Foxworthy will be performing Sunday night at the Black River Coliseum.
MAN SENTENCED TO OVER TWO DECADES IN PRISON IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING IN KENNETT
A Kennett man has been sentenced in connection to a shooting last year.
According to Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney Nicholas Jain, 21 year old Jaheim Feltus was sentenced Thursday to 22 years in prison after pleading guilty to unlawful use of a weapon. .
On March 8th, 2023, law enforcement received calls of a shooting in the parking lot of the Walmart in Kennett. While officers were en route to the scene, the gunshot victim arrived at the Kennett Police Department and was airlifted for treatment. The victim survived his injuries.
Feltuswas arrested soon afterward. He told law enforcement officers that he saw his ex-girlfriend in a car with another man, so he shot into that vehicle striking the man.
CARUTHERSVILLE POLICE FIND MISSING MAN
Updating a story we have been following for you, a man who was reported missing earlier this week has been found.
Officials with the Caruthersville Police Department say that 23 year old Hunter Souders has been located.
Information was not released on where Souders was found.
NEW STATE TROOPERS ASSIGNED TO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI
Two new State Troopers have been assigned to Southeast Missouri.
Colonel Eric Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that six troopers will graduate from the Patrol’s Accelerated Law Enforcement Academy on Wednesday, April 17th.
Two of the graduates will be coming to Southeast Missouri.
Trooper Trevor Sutton, of Poplar Bluff, was assigned to Butler and Ripley Counties, while Trooper Tony Jones, of Caruthersville, was assigned to New Madrid and Pemiscot Counties.
The new troopers will report to duty in Troop E on Monday, April 29th.
DETOURS TO BE IN PLACE OVERNIGHT TONIGHT ON EASTBOUND US HIGHWAY 60
Eastbound Route 60 traffic in New Madrid County will utilize detours overnight as construction of the Ingram overpass in Sikeston, Missouri continues.
Several overnight closures of eastbound Route 60 will be necessary as contractor crews set the bridge girders between Route 61 and Interstate 55 near Sikeston.
Weather permitting, night work will take place from 6 p.m. tonight through 8 a.m. tomorrow morning.
Thursday, April 4, 2024
SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO TWO CHARGES IN CONNECTION TO JANUARY 6TH CAPITOL BREACH
A Southeast Missouri man will be sentenced later this year for his actions during the breach of the United States Capitol on January 6th, 2021.
43 year old Nicholas L. Kennedy, of Sikeston, pleaded guilty on Wednesday in the District of Columbia to two felony offenses of obstruction of law enforcement during a civil disorder and tampering with records, documents, or other objects.
SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO TWO CHARGES IN CONNECTION TO JANUARY 6TH CAPITOL BREACH
A Southeast Missouri man will be sentenced later this year for his actions during the breach of the United States Capitol on January 6th, 2021.
43 year old Nicholas L. Kennedy, of Sikeston, pleaded guilty on Wednesday in the District of Columbia to two felony offenses of obstruction of law enforcement during a civil disorder and tampering with records, documents, or other objects.
As part of the plea agreement, Kennedy agreed to proceed to a stipulated bench trial regarding the third felony charge, where U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly found Kennedy guilty of obstruction of an official proceeding.
Kennedy, who was a member of the Proud Boys organization, was one of a group of people who breached into the Capitol building during the Congressional Session to count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.
The FBI arrested Kennedy in Sikeston on July 28, 2021. His sentencing date has been set for August 28th.
MOTORISTS URGED TO DRIVE SAFE AHEAD OF THE ECLIPSE
Southeast Missouri is expecting an influx of visitors this weekend for the Solar Eclipse and officials are urging motorists to be safe.
Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation say that you should find a safe location to view the event and get there early.
Watch out for increased pedestrian traffic along smaller roads. People may be randomly parking and walking alongside roads in the hour before the total eclipse to get the best viewing.
Do not take photographs of the eclipse while driving and remember to turn your headlights on during the eclipse.
Also motorists should prepare for extra congestion, especially on interstates and other major roadways, for the hours immediately following the eclipse.
$50,000 WINNING POWERBALL TICKET SOLD IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS
Lottery players in Northeast Arkansas should check their tickets.
According to the Arkansas State Lottery, a $50,000 winning Powerball ticket was drawn on Monday.
Officials say the ticket was purchased at a gas station in Paragould and the winner has not come forward.
You can find more information at MyArkansasLottery.com.
THREE RIVERS COLLEGE MUSIC DEPARTMENT TO HOST FALL SHOWCASE TONIGHT
The Three Rivers College Music Department is hosting a Spring showcase tonight.
According to school officials, TRC vocal and instrumental students will perform an eclectic program of classical repertoire and musical theater standards during the showcase. Admission is free.
The Fall Showcase has been scheduled for 7 pm tonight at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.
ENTRANCE ROAD TO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CONSERVATION AREA TEMPORARILY CLOSED
Construction is forcing the closure of the primary entrance to a Southeast Missouri Conservation Area.
According to officials, the Missouri Department of Conservation’s Little River Conservation Area main entrance road is temporarily closed due to construction.
MDC Construction Administration Manager Tim Anderson tells KWOC News that the corrugated pipes under the existing road planned for reuse in a temporary access are not suitable for use in their current condition.
He said the closure of the entrance road must be extended due to safety concerns while an alternative solution for providing temporary access is sourced and installed.
Little River Conservation Area is located five miles east of Kennett on Highway 412 and is in both Dunklin and Pemiscot counties.
DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR PAVEMENT REPAIRS
Route ZZ in Dunklin County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.
The closure is located from Route NN to the end of state maintenance.
Officials say that crews will be on scene through 5 p.m. this evening.
Wednesday, April 3, 2024
MARIJUANA TAX PASSES IN POPLAR BLUFF AND BOYER IS ELECTED TO CITY COUNCIL
Poplar Bluff voters have chosen to approve a new tax for marijuana sales in the city.
On Tuesday, voters approved a new city-wide sales tax of three percent for retail sales of adult-use marijuana in the city by a vote of 339-138. Similar proposals were also approved in Kennett, Senath, and Piedmont, as well as Dunklin and New Madrid Counties.
In the race to fill the Ward 2 seat on the Poplar Bluff City Council, David Boyer received over 71 percent of the vote to claim victory.
MARIJUANA TAX PASSES IN POPLAR BLUFF AND BOYER IS ELECTED TO CITY COUNCIL
Poplar Bluff voters have chosen to approve a new tax for marijuana sales in the city.
On Tuesday, voters approved a new city-wide sales tax of three percent for retail sales of adult-use marijuana in the city by a vote of 339-138. Similar proposals were also approved in Kennett, Senath, and Piedmont, as well as Dunklin and New Madrid Counties.
In the race to fill the Ward 2 seat on the Poplar Bluff City Council, David Boyer received over 71 percent of the vote to claim victory.
In Fisk, voters chose Nancy Kay Stewart to be the new Mayor and Jeff Ledbetter to serve as Ward One Alderperson.
In Neelyville, Amanda Collier won the race for Ward One Alderman while Philip Flurry was selected to serve as Alderman for Ward Two.
Qulin voters selected Charles Galbraith Jr. to serve as Ward One Alerperson.
GAEBLER AND DAVIS RE-ELECTED TO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL BOARD
Two people were chosen to sit on the Poplar Bluff School Board during Tuesday’s election.
According to unofficial results released Tuesday, Timothy Dale Gaebler and Ken Davis were the top two vote getters, receiving 588 and 397 votes respectively. Davis was only 14 votes ahead of the third place finisher, Heather Rommel.
For the Twin Rivers School District, Monica King Woolem and Keith Parker received the highest vote totals in the school board election.
The top two for the Neelyville School Board were Jack Stull and Marco Gavino.
Doniphan R-1 voters selected Kathreen Friend and James Monaghan to be a part of the School Board.
Linda Jo Lunsford and Jeff Sullivan were the top two vote getters for the Naylor Board of Education.
DONIPHAN R-1 TAX LEVY PASSED BY VOTERS
A tax levy was approved Tuesday for a local school district.
Doniphan Proposition Teach passed by a 493 to 392 vote. Doniphan voters also voted to maintain a levy for the Road District Commission.
Ron Barnett won the race for Doniphan Special Road District Road Commissioner by six votes. Steve Amlong defeated Robert Charles in the race for Ripley County Public Water Supply District #2 - Sub District #3.
In Stoddard County, a tax levy increase was approved for the Puxico R-VIII school district, Dexter residents voted yes to a combined waterworks and sewerage system revenue bond, and Bernie approved a City Collector proposition.
The top two vote getters for the Stoddard County Health Board were Jeff Riddle with 859 votes and Cale Williams with 809 votes. Williams was only one vote ahead of third place finisher Frank Killian.
James Hamlin won the race for Advance Ward 1 Alderman by only two votes. In Bernie, Lonnie Vickers was chosen as Ward 2 Alderman, while voters selected Barry Zimmerman for Ward 3 Alderman.
Bloomfield voters chose Nick Roe and Jacob Goodin as city Alderman.
COUNTYWIDE SALES TAX EXTENDED IN WAYNE COUNTY
Voters in Wayne County have chosen to extend a countywide sales tax through 2030.
The vote to continue the one half of one percent sales tax for six more years was approved 493 to 192 on Tuesday. Piedmont voters also voted yes to a waterworks and sewerage system bond issue.
Also during the election, Jason Hill was chosen as mayor of Greenville, while Lee Hillis was selected to be mayor of Williamsville.
Williamsville voters also chose Helen Edwards and Michael Meyer to serve as at-large Aldermen.
In Dunklin County, Clarkton voters approved a local use tax issue 115-43.
In Clarkton, Eunice Diane Riley won the race for Mayor, while David Dillard was selected as Chief of Police. Jerry Young won the election for Mayor of Holcomb
Kennett Voters chose Steve Panousis and Bob Young to serve as Council Members.
In Malden, Rose Downs, Robert House, and Harold Jones all won races to the city council.
ELECTION ISSUES PASSED IN ELLSINORE, GRANDIN, AND VAN BUREN
Three Carter County communities passed election related issues during Tuesday’s general municipal election.
The cities of Ellsinore, Grandin, and Van Buren all approved issues that would allow the communities to not hold elections when there are no contested races.
A sales tax issue was also approved for the West Carter County Ambulance Association.
Residents in Grandin chose Diana Brower to serve as Mayor, and for Jim Tucker and Steven Drwenski to serve as At-Large Aldermen.
Moving to New Madrid County, Portageville voters rejected a one half of one percent sales tax. Lilbourn voters also rejected a proposal to have the city collector be appointed by the Board of Alderman
Lilbourn voters selected Robert Taylor for Mayor, Virgie Johnson for Collector, and Cynthia Dodds and Richard Kolwyck for Aldermen.
Nick White won the race for New Madrid Mayor, while Gary Faulk was selected as Ward One Alderman in Portageville.
TEEN ARRESTED FOR SHOOTING INCIDENT OVER THE WEEKEND
A teenager has been arrested in connection to an incident where a shot was fired over the weekend in Poplar Bluff.
According to a probable cause affidavit, on Sunday Poplar Bluff Police responded to the 600 block of Arthur street regarding a report of a gunshot.
At the scene, two juveniles told an officer that a white male had shot at them and then fled the scene.
An investigation resulted in 18 year old Damion Champion, of Poplar Bluff, being identified as a suspect. Contact was made with Champion on Monday when he said that one of the juveniles was about to fight his relative when he noticed one of the juveniles had their hand in a hoodie pocket.
Champion felt that the juvenile was making a motion to pull out a gun, so he pulled out his gun and fired one round in the general direction of the juveniles. The bullet struck the side of a nearby residence.
Champion is facing charges of endangering the welfare of a child, unlawful use of a weapon, two counts of assault 2nd degree, and two counts of armed criminal action. His bond was set at $50,000 and he is scheduled to appear in a Butler County courtroom this morning.
COMMUNITY WELLNESS EXPO SET FOR TODAY AT BLACK RIVER COLISEUM
A Community Wellness Expo will be held today in Poplar Bluff.
Missouri Highland Healthcare will be putting on the expo from 10 am to 1 pm at the Black River Coliseum.
There will be community resources, health screening services, and giveaways during the event, which is free to attend.
For more information, go to MoHigh.org/wellness-expo/.
April 2nd, 2024 Municipal Election Unofficial Results
Unofficial Election Results for the 2024 General Municipal Election.
Butler County:
Poplar Bluff Proposition: Shall the City of Poplar Bluff impose a city-wide sales tax of three percent on all tangible personal property retail sales of adult-use marijuana sold in the city of Poplar Bluff.
Yes - 339
No - 138
Butler County Fire Protection District - Board Director
Chris Browning - 550
Robert Helton - 398
City of Fisk - Mayor
Nancy Kay Stewart - 58
Doug Mosbey - 17
City of Fisk - Ward One Alderperson
Jeff Ledbetter - 43
Heather Mosbey - 4
City of Neelyville - Ward One Alderman
Vickie L. LeCroy - 7
Amanda Collier - 16
City of Neelyville - Ward Two Alderman
Philip Flurry - 14
Robin C. Reeves - 5
City of Poplar Bluff - Ward Two Councilman
David Boyer - 87
Mack Campbell - 16
Marty Paskel - 19
City of Qulin - Ward One Alderperson
Charles Galbraith Jr. - 20
Cheryl L. Johnson - 10
Neelyville R-4 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Marco Gavino - 102
Jack Stull - 172
Tracee Stotts - 82
Poplar Bluff R-1 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Timothy Dale Gaebler - 588
Heather Rommel - 383
Jamie Hickson - 127
Ken Davis - 397
Curtis Fouts - 155
Twin Rivers R-10 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Monica King Woolem - 288
Jerry Whitlow - 225
Keith Parker - 264
Carter County:
Property Tax Reduction Act - Shall the West Carter County Ambulance Association impose a sales tax of one half of one percent for the purpose of providing revenues for the operation of the West Carter County Ambulance Association and the total property tax levy on properties within the West Carter County Ambulance Association shall be reduced annually by an amount which reduces property tax revenues by an amount equal to fifty percent of the previous year’s revenue collected from this sales tax?
Yes - 189
No - 118
City of Ellsinore Question - Shall the city of Ellsinore conduct municipal elections in accordance with subsection 1 of section 115.124 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri such that when the number of candidates seeking office are equal to the number of positions to be filed, resulting in the uncontested elections for such office, no election would be held.
Yes - 28
No - 3
City of Grandin Question - Shall the city of Grandin conduct municipal elections in accordance with subsection 1 of section 115.124 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri such that when the number of candidates seeking office are equal to the number of positions to be filed, resulting in the uncontested elections for such office, no election would be held.
Yes - 34
No - 21
City of Van Buren Question - Shall the city of Van Buren conduct municipal elections in accordance with subsection 1 of section 115.124 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri such that when the number of candidates seeking office are equal to the number of positions to be filed, resulting in the uncontested elections for such office, no election would be held.
Yes - 73
No - 32
City of Grandin - Mayor
Phillip C. Phelps - 23
Diana Brower - 33
City of Grandin - At Large Alderman (Vote for 2)
David Townsend - 26
Jim Tucker - 34
Steven Drwenski - 32
Van Buren R-1 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Lisa Burke - 100
Erik McSpadden - 206
David Ryan Baldridge - 201
Andrew Ross - 90
East Carter County R-2 Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Gabe Thompson - 209
Jeremy Reynolds - 171
Bryan House - 145
Dunklin County:
County Sales Tax - Shall Dunklin County, impose a countywide sales tax of three percent (3%) on all tangible personal property
retail sales of adult use marijuana sold in Dunklin County?
Yes - 1686
No - 714
Clarkton Question - Shall the City of Clarkton impose a local
use tax at the same rate as the total local sales tax rate, provided that if the local sales tax rate is reduced or raised by voter approval, the local use tax rate shall also be reduced or raised by the same action?
Yes - 115
No - 43
Kennett Question - Shall the City of Kennett, Missouri,
impose a sales tax of three percent (3%) on all retail sales of adult use marijuana sold in the City of Kennett?
Yes - 627
No - 109
Senath Question - Shall the City of Senath, Missouri,
impose a sales tax of three percent (3%) on all retail sales of adult-use marijuana sold in the City of Senath?
Yes - 112
No - 27
City of Campbell - Ward 2 Alderman
Bryan S. McClendon - 36
Cary M. Whorton - 31
Junior Brown - 6
City of Clarkton - Mayor
Eunice Diane Riley - 131
Clinton Ray “CJ” Vannasdall Jr. - 25
City of Clarkton - Chief of Police
David Dillard - 116
Jason Cradduck - 44
City of Holcomb - Mayor
Ricky Peters - 35
Jerry Young - 53
City of Kennett- Ward 4 Council Member
Steve Panousis - 151
Juan Toscano - 55
Scott Hamlett - 14
Brittany Jenkins - 4
City of Kennett- Ward 5 Council Member
Samantha Sebastian - 39
Brandon Davis - 35
Bob Young - 118
City of Malden - Ward 1 Councilmember
Rose Downs - 50
Tomorro Antwine - 32
City of Malden - Ward 2 Councilmember
Robert House - 51
Nollie “Cookie” Smith-Burnett - 32
City of Malden - Ward 3 Councilmember
Charles Dierks - 82
Harold Jones - 97
Campbell R-2 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Bryce Durham - 155
Dalton Ezell - 182
Shawn Belcher - 153
Holcomb R-3 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Austin Davidson - 129
Daniel McNabb - 95
Rex McElwrath - 177
Malden R-1 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Jeremy Holloway - 448
Lynnette Jenkins - 271
Benjamin Brown - 311
Senath-Hornersville C-8 Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Robby Shrum - 233
Bart Branum - 206
Dustin Jackson - 264
Kristina Reed - 179
New Madrid County:
New Madrid County Question - Shall the County of New Madrid, Missouri, impose a sales tax in the amount of three percent (3%) on all tangible personal property retail sales of adult use marijuana sold in the County of New Madrid?
Yes - 977
No - 600
Lilbourn Question - Shall the position of Lilbourn City Collector be appointed by the Board of Alderman by the City of Lilbourn with approval by the Mayor?
Yes - 72
No - 99
Portageville Question - Shall the municipality of Portageville impose a sales tax of one half of one percent (1/2 of 1%) for the purpose of funding capital improvements, such tax to terminate automatically 10 years after the imposition thereof?
Yes - 131
No - 288
City of Lilbourn - Mayor
Larry Hamilton - 44
Robert Taylor - 128
City of Lilbourn - Collector
Virgie Johnson - 83
Brian Mays - 77
City of Lilbourn - Ward 1 Alderman
Larry Jackson - 24
Pamela A. Small - 25
Cynthia Dodds - 45
City of Lilbourn - Ward 2 Alderman
Denise Comstock - 17
Richard “Dickie” Kolwyck - 36
Benji Henry - 22
City of New Madrid - Mayor
Kevin Lyons - 51
Richard Bodi (Dickie) - 188
Nick White - 446
City of Portageville - Ward 1 Alderman
Patty Estes Johnson - 53
Gary Faulk - 109
New Madrid County R-1 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Aaron Griffin - 568
Mary Kay Davis - 615
Kevin Lyons - 378
Portageville School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Matt Brasher - 171
Ronnie Gene Adams - 204
Chris Sutton - 112
Towina M. Jones - 136
Tiffany Jackson-Edmondson - 57
Jarrett Warren - 181
Ripley County:
Doniphan Proposition Teach: Shall the Board of Education of the Doniphan R-I School District, be authorized to increase the operating tax levy to $3.6000 per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation for the purposes of attracting and retaining quality certified and support staff, maintaining facilities, and meeting additional operating expenses?
Yes - 493
No - 392
Doniphan Question - Shall the Doniphan Special Road District maintain the levy $0.1500 in excess of the current $0.2130 levy made by the Road District Commission? This levy is to be for road maintenance and is to be in effect for three years. This is an extension of the levy already in place.
Yes - 331
No - 170
Ripley County Public Water Supply District #2 - Sub District #3
Steve Amlong - 165
Robert D. Charles - 60
Doniphan Special Road District - Road Commissioner
Bari P. Chase - 233
Ron Barnett - 239
Doniphan R-1 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Kim Kellerman - 258
James Monaghan - 279
Kathreen Friend - 576
Naylor R-2 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Timothy Ryan Ainley - 42
Linda Jo Lunsford - 108
Jeff Sullivan - 91
Stoddard County:
Bernie Proposition - Shall the Board of Alderman of the City of Bernie provide by ordinance for the appointment of a Collector as provided for by the Statutes of the State of Missouri?
Yes - 77
No - 22
Dexter Proposition - Shall the City of Dexter issue its combined waterworks and sewerage system revenue bonds in the amount of up to $32,000,000 for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, extending, and improving the City’s existing combined waterworks and sewerage system, the cost of operation and maintenance of said system and the principal of and interest on said revenue bonds to be payable solely from the revenues derived by the city from the operation of its combined waterworks and sewerage system, including all future extensions and improvements thereto?
Yes - 322
No - 124
Duck Creek Township Road District Question - Shall the Duck Creek Township General Road District levy a Special Road & Bridge Tax Levy for thirty-five cents on the one hundred dollar assessed valuation in said road district for the next four years with the first year being the present tax year?
Yes - 126
No - 187
Dudley Question - Shall the Dudley Special Road District levy a Special Road & Bridge Tax Levy for thirty-five cents on the one hundred dollar assessed valuation in said road district for the next four years with the first year being the present tax year?
Yes - 32
No - 6
Puxico Special School Levy Proposition - Shall the Board of Education of the Puxico R-VIII School District, for the purpose of providing additional funds for maintaining, improving, or replacing its facilities, retaining quality certified and support staff, and meeting the operating expenses of the district, be authorized to increase the operating tax levy to $3.3400 per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation in Tax Year 2024 and to $3.5400 per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation in Tax Year 2025?
Yes - 273
No - 163
Stoddard County Health Board (Vote for 2)
Frank Killian - 808
Cale Williams - 809
Matthew Harris - 653
Jeff Riddle - 859
City of Advance - Ward 1 Alderman
James Hamlin - 24
Tim Hill Sr. - 22
City of Bernie - Ward 2 Alderman
Stephen Wayne Williams - 11
Trevor Williams - 4
Lonnie Vickers - 32
Krista Armbruster - 16
City of Bernie - Ward 3 Alderman
Adam Brinley - 6
Barry Zimmerman - 17
City of Bloomfield - Ward 1 Alderman
Nick Roe - 58
Patricia Wilson - 18
Mariah Morlan - 27
City of Bloomfield - Ward 2 Alderman
Donna Deardorff - 48
Jacob Goodin - 52
Bell City R-2 School District Board of Education (Vote for 3)
Mark Anderson - 113
Sarah Bailey - 130
Eric Bowling - 90
Garrett McIntyre - 71
Bloomfield R-14 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Justin Bell - 227
Randall McCollom - 81
Brad Warner - 201
Darin Davis - 137
Dexter R-11 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Aaron Mathis - 628
Preston Clark - 454
Taylor Joyner - 372
Richland R-1 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Chris Porter - 102
Landon Wheeler - 56
Dennis McGarity Jr. - 99
Puxico R-8 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
John R. Davis - 233
Joe Hodges - 299
April Burchard - 256
Wayne County:
Wayne County Sales Tax - Shall the County of Wayne extend a current countywide sales tax of one half of one percent for another period of six years, to expire on September 30, 2030 and continue a one hundred percent (100%) reduction of general revenue property tax?
Yes - 493
No - 192
Piedmont Question - Shall the city of Piedmont impose a sales tax of three percent (3%) on all retail sales of adult use marijuana sold in the city of Piedmont?
Yes - 106
No - 26
Piedmont Bond Question - Shall the City of Piedmont issue its combined waterworks and sewerage system revenue bonds in the amount of $15,000,000 for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, furnishing, equipping, extending and improving the City's combined waterworks and sewerage system, the cost of operation and maintenance of said system and the principal of and interest on said revenue bonds to be payable solely from the revenues derived by the City from the operation of its combined waterworks and sewerage system, including all future extensions and improvements thereto?
Yes - 120
No - 14
City of Greenville - Mayor
David J. Ritzu - 8
Jason C. Hill - 36
City of Williamsville - Mayor
Lee Hillis - 69
Amanda Crutchfield-Smith - 17
City of Williamsville - At Large Alderman (Vote for 2)
Helen Edwards - 62
Michael Meyer - 44
Sharon L. Eudaley - 36
Clearwater R-1 School District Directors (Vote for 2)
Kyle Allen - 96
Kevin Kinnard - 267
Roger Bishop - 197
Matt Graham - 152
Tuesday, April 2, 2024
SEAT ON POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL AND MULTIPLE AREA SCHOOL BOARDS TO BE DECIDED TODAY
Voters from across Southeast Missouri will be going to the ballot box today for municipal elections.
In Poplar Bluff, voters will determine who will represent Ward Two on the City Council, David Boyer, Mack Campbell, or Marty Paskel.
Voters in numerous communities will also be voting on marijuana taxes today, including Poplar Bluff, Kennett, and Piedmont.
Multiple school districts will also be holding Board of Education elections today, including Poplar Bluff, Neelyville and Twin Rivers.
SEAT ON POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL AND MULTIPLE AREA SCHOOL BOARDS TO BE DECIDED TODAY
Voters from across Southeast Missouri will be going to the ballot box today for municipal elections.
In Poplar Bluff, voters will determine who will represent Ward Two on the City Council, David Boyer, Mack Campbell, or Marty Paskel.
Voters in numerous communities will also be voting on marijuana taxes today, including Poplar Bluff, Kennett, and Piedmont.
Multiple school districts will also be holding Board of Education elections today, including Poplar Bluff, Neelyville and Twin Rivers.
Five people are challenging for two spots on the Poplar Bluff School Board, including Timothy Dale Gaebler, Heather Rommel, Jamie Hickson, Ken Davis, and Curtis Fouts.
There are three candidates for two spots on the Neelyville School board; Marco Gavino, Jack Stull, and Tracee Stotts.
For the Twin Rivers School Board, voters will choose two members between Monica King Woolem, Jerry Whitlow, and Keith Parker.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON 1ST DEGREE MURDER WARRANT
A Poplar Bluff man has been arrested on a warrant for 1st degree murder.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on Saturday afternoon 36 year old Marquis Black was booked on St. Louis County warrants for murder 1st, armed criminal action, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
The warrant stems from a shooting death in St. Louis last July.
Police officials say that Black is also facing an additional charge of unlawful possession of a firearm and was lodged at the Butler County Jail.
WEEKEND SHOOTING IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS BELIEVED TO BE SELF DEFENSE
One man was shot during an incident Sunday night in Northeast Arkansas.
According to Pocahontas Police Chief David Edington, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting shortly before midnight Sunday night.
A male suffered gunshot wounds to his upper body during the incident. The subject, identified as Carl Pierce, was transported to a local hospital and his current condition is unknown.
Edington says that one person was taken into custody, but they were released on Monday as the incident is believed to have been a self defense shooting
The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
CARUTHERSVILLE POLICE SEARCHING FOR MISSING MAN
Officials with the Caruthersville Police Department say that a search is underway for a man who was reported missing over the weekend.
According to officials, on Sunday police were contacted by the family of 23 year old Hunter Souders, who stated that he had left walking the previous afternoon, possibly going to the Hayti McDonald's.
Souders was last seen on city-owned cameras leaving Caruthersville on Highway 84. Officers later received information from a Hayti business that Souders may be trying to find a ride to Quincy, Illinois.
Souders is reported as being autistic and is not currently in possession of his prescribed medications.
He is described as a white male, last seen wearing a bright green head wrap, a white t-shirt, blue shorts, and white shoes.
Anyone who has information on Souders’ whereabouts is asked to contact the Caruthersville Police Department at 573-333-0216.
CULVERT REPLACEMENTS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN CARTER COUNTY
Route F in Carter County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace several culverts under the roadway.
The work zone is located between Route C and the end of state maintenance near Van Buren.
Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.
CONCRETE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE DELAYS ON INTERSTATE 55
Southbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction through Thursday as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform concrete replacement.
The work zone is located from mile marker 10.6 to mile marker 8 near Steele.
Weather permitting, the work will take place from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, through Thursday.
Monday, April 1, 2024
CHANCE OF SEVERE WEATHER TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI
There is a chance of severe weather across Southeast Missouri.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the main severe weather event is expected to move into the area late this evening and progress eastward across the area overnight.
Many of our more northern and western communities are under an enhanced risk of severe weather as a part of this system.
CHANCE OF SEVERE WEATHER TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI
There is a chance of severe weather today across Southeast Missouri.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the main severe weather event is expected to move into the area late this evening and progress eastward across the area overnight.
Many of our more northern and western communities are under an enhanced risk of severe weather as a part of this system.
There will be primarily a damaging wind threat today, however officials say that a few tornadoes will also be possible.
WAYNE COUNTY VOTERS TO SEE TAX ISSUES ON TOMORROW’S BALLOT
Voters in Wayne County could see multiple tax related issues on tomorrow's ballot.
Wayne County residents will decide if the county should extend a current countywide sales tax of one half of one percent for another period of six years and continue a one hundred percent reduction of general revenue property tax.
The city of Piedmont is asking its citizens about a waterworks and sewerage system bond as well as a possible sales tax on marijuana sales.
In Stoddard County, there is also a waterworks and sewerage system bond up for a vote in Dexter. The Puxico School District is proposing an operating tax levy increase to add funding for facilities and staff.
We have a Southeast Missouri Voting Guide available on our website.
LADY RAIDERS ELIMINATED IN QUARTERFINALS OF NJCAA TOURNAMENT
The Three Rivers College Lady Raiders excellent basketball season has come to an end.
The 11 seed Lady Raiders fell to three seed Northwest Florida State College, 69-54 Friday night in the quarterfinals of the NJCAA Division 1 Women’s Basketball Championship in Casper, Wyoming.
TRC finishes the season with a 29-5 record.
ONE FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH IN BUTLER COUNTY
Two people were injured, one seriously, in a Saturday night crash.
Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the crash occurred when a vehicle ran off the side of Route PP in Butler County and struck a tree.
A passenger in the vehicle, 48 year old Paul Bourbon, of Ellsinore, was flown to a Memphis hospital with serious injuries.
The driver, 40 year old Heather Pace, of Poplar Bluff, had moderate injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.
MOTORCYCLE RIDER SERIOUSLY INJURED AFTER HITTING ANIMAL IN WAYNE COUNTY
A motorcycle rider was injured in a crash over the weekend in Wayne County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Kiefer Ledbetter, of Piedmont, was riding a motorcycle on Missouri Highway 34 when he struck an animal in the roadway.
Officials say the wreck occurred shortly after 1 am Saturday.
Ledbetter was seriously injured in the crash and taken by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital.
SHOULDER WORK UNDERWAY ON ROUTE U IN NEW MADRID COUNTY
Route U in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane through the middle of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder work.
The work zone is located from Route D to U.S. Highway 61 near New Madrid.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily through Thursday.
Friday, March 29, 2024
MAN ARRESTED AFTER ALLEGEDLY ATTEMPTING TO ROB A STORE WITH A GOLF CLUB
A New Madrid man has been taken into custody after an attempted robbery that included an unusual weapon.
According to New Madrid Chief of Police, Joey Higgerson, early Tuesday morning an attempted robbery occurred at a local business.
The victim, a store clerk, reported a black male entered the store armed with a golf club and demanded money. The suspect fled the store after the victim refused to provide the money.
MAN ARRESTED AFTER ALLEGEDLY ATTEMPTING TO ROB A STORE WITH A GOLF CLUB
A New Madrid man has been taken into custody after an attempted robbery that included an unusual weapon.
According to New Madrid Chief of Police, Joey Higgerson, early Tuesday morning an attempted robbery occurred at a local business.
The victim, a store clerk, reported a black male entered the store armed with a golf club and demanded money. The suspect fled the store after the victim refused to provide the money.
An investigation led to the arrest of 41 year old Tony Rhines on charges of attempted robbery in the first degree and armed criminal action. Rhines' bond was set at $100,000, cash-only, and he is being held in the Mississippi County Jail.
REGISTRATION ENDS TODAY FOR POPLAR BLUFF YOUTH BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL
You are almost out of time to get your children registered for youth baseball and softball in Poplar Bluff.
According to the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Department, today is the final day for registration. The registration fee is $20.
For more information, or to complete the registration, go to pbparks.recdesk.com or visit the Parks and Recreation office on North Second Street.
BRIDGE REPLACEMENT FORCES CLOSURE OF POPLAR BLUFF ROAD
A Poplar Bluff road will be closed through mid-summer so crews can replace a bridge.
According to city officials, Roxie Road is closed between Maud Street and Shelby Road while crews replace the bridge over Pike Creek.
The project is expected to be completed by June 29th.
MARINE CORPS LEAGUE OF POPLAR BLUFF TO HOST CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT FUNDRAISER
The Marine Corps League of Poplar Bluff will be hosting a fundraising Cornhole Tournament this weekend.
The tournament is scheduled for Saturday at the Elks Lodge on Highway 67 North.
The entry fee is $30 per team with sign-ups beginning at 11 am. The tournament will start at 1 pm.
In addition to cornhole, there will also be food, a 50/50 drawing, and an airmail challenge.
For more information, contact Jesse Wells at 573-344-3511.
EASTER EGG SAFETY TIPS
Easter is this weekend and that means many families will be decorating eggs to go with celebrating the holiday.
Officials with the Food and Drug administration have released some tips for preparing your eggs for the weekend.
To prevent the spread of dirt and germs, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling eggs at every preparation step, including cooking, cooling, dyeing, and hiding.
Keep hard-cooked Easter eggs refrigerated until just before the hunt. Cold temperatures keep most harmful bacteria from multiplying.
If you are having an Easter egg hunt, hide eggs in places that are protected from dirt, pets, and other potential sources of bacteria such as wild animals.
After the hunt, find all the eggs you have hidden. After the hunt, discard eggs that are cracked or dirty. Bacteria can enter eggs through cracks in the shell.
If your eggs have been at temperatures above 40ºF for more than two hours, don’t eat them. Throw them away. More information about food safety is available at fda.gov.
CONCRETE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON US ROUTE 60
Eastbound Route 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform concrete repairs.
The work zone is located from Route 114 to County Road 789 near Morehouse.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Thursday, March 28, 2024
LADY RAIDERS ADVANCE TO SECOND ROUND OF NJCAA TOURNAMENT
The Three Rivers College Lady Raiders used a strong start to power their way to the 2nd round of the NJCAA Division 1 Women’s Basketball Championship in Casper, Wyoming.
Three Rivers College jumped out to a 39-23 halftime lead over Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College before holding off a late surge from the Bulldogs to claim a 73-64 victory in their first round matchup.
With the win, Three Rivers now advances to the second round where they will face the six seed Shelton State tonight at 7:45 pm.
LADY RAIDERS ADVANCE TO SECOND ROUND OF NJCAA TOURNAMENT
The Three Rivers College Lady Raiders used a strong start to power their way to the 2nd round of the NJCAA Division 1 Women’s Basketball Championship in Casper, Wyoming.
Three Rivers College jumped out to a 39-23 halftime lead over Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College before holding off a late surge from the Bulldogs to claim a 73-64 victory in their first round matchup.
With the win, Three Rivers now advances to the second round where they will face the six seed Shelton State tonight at 7:45 pm.
The tournament will be broadcast live on ESPN Plus.
FOUR STOLEN FIREARMS RECOVERED FROM VEHICLE IN DEXTER
Multiple stolen firearms have been recovered from a vehicle in Stoddard County.
According to Dexter Chief of Police Hank Trout, Saturday morning a detective conducted a traffic stop in the area of previously reported thefts.
During the stop, two male passengers exited the car and ran from the scene. The driver, a 17 year old from Bertrand, was detained.
Trout says that five handguns were seized during a search of the vehicle.
Four of the handguns were identified as being stolen from vehicles located inside the city limits of Dexter.
The juvenile that was detained was taken to the Stoddard County Juvenile Detention Facility where he is being held.
Trout says that the investigation is ongoing and further details will be released as they become available.
MULTIPLE BALLOT PROPOSITIONS TO BE VOTED ON IN CARTER AND RIPLEY COUNTIES
Voters in Carter and Ripley Counties will be deciding on multiple ballot measures next week.
In Carter County, there is a measure to impose a sales tax but reduce property tax to provide revenue for the West Carter County Ambulance Association. Residents of Ellsinore, Grandin, and Van Buren will also be voting on election measures.
Ripley County voters will be voting for Doniphan Proposition Teach, which would increase the operating tax levy as well as a question on should the Doniphan Special Road District maintain a levy that is already in place.
A voter guide for the upcoming municipal election is available on our website.
AUTHORITIES LOOKING FOR SUBJECT IN CONNECTION TO RIPLEY COUNTY FIRE
Authorities are searching for a subject in connection to a fire in Ripley County last month.
According to the Ripley County Sheriff’s Office, on February 27th a cabin was burned off of V Highway at around 2:30 am.
A subject was captured by area cameras and officials are trying to identify the subject in the photos.
Anyone with information about the fire or the subject is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 573-996-5555.
MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TODAY TO DISCUSS LAKE WAPPAPELLO OPERATIONS
A public meeting will be held today to discuss the Wappapello Lake water control plan, operations, and dam safety.
According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the meeting has been scheduled for 6 p.m. at the Bill Emerson Memorial Visitor Center in Wappapello.
Corps of Engineers’ staff will host a question and answer session and give presentations on water control procedures, 2024 operations, and dam safety.
For more information, contact the Wappapello Lake Management Office at (573) 222-8562.
CULVERT REPLACEMENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN CARTER COUNTY
Route F in Carter County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace several culverts under the roadway.
The section of roadway being reduced is located between Route C and the end of state maintenance near Van Buren.
Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wednesday, March 27, 2024
LADY RAIDERS KICK OFF NJCAA TOURNAMENT CAMPAIGN TODAY
It will be an early afternoon start for the Lady Raiders today in the NJCAA Division 1 Women’s Basketball Championship in Casper, Wyoming.
Three Rivers College earned the 11 seed for the tournament and will take on the 22 seed Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College at 1:15 pm this afternoon in the opening round of the tournament.
If Three Rivers picks up the win, they will then advance to face the 6 seed Shelton State at 7:45 pm on March 28th.
LADY RAIDERS KICK OFF NJCAA TOURNAMENT CAMPAIGN TODAY
It will be an early afternoon start for the Lady Raiders today in the NJCAA Division 1 Women’s Basketball Championship in Casper, Wyoming.
Three Rivers College earned the 11 seed for the tournament and will take on the 22 seed Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College at 1:15 pm this afternoon in the opening round of the tournament.
If Three Rivers picks up the win, they will then advance to face the 6 seed Shelton State at 7:45 pm on March 28th.
The tournament will be broadcast live on ESPN Plus.
POPLAR BLUFF TO VOTE ON SALES TAX FOR MARIJUANA NEXT WEEK
Poplar Bluff voters will be heading to the polls next week to decide on a marijuana sales tax issue.
Poplar Bluff residents will vote next Tuesday on whether the city should impose a city wide sales tax of three percent on retail sales of adult-use marijuana sold in the city.
There is also one competitive race for the Poplar Bluff City Council as David Boyer, Mack Campbell, and Marty Paskel all vie for the Ward Two seat that is currently held by Jerrica Fox-Lane, who chose not to run for reelection.
In Fisk, Nancy Kay Stewart and Doug Mosbey are both running to be Mayor. Jeff Ledbetter and Heather Mosbey are competing for the Fisk Ward One Alderman seat.
Neelyville will have two alderman seats up for election. Vickie LeCroy will face Amanda Collier for the Ward One position, while Ward Two will have Philip Flurry and Robin Reeves facing off.
In Qulin, Charles Galbraith Jr. will challenge Cheryl Johnson for the Ward One Alderperson spot.
There are also competitive school board races for the Poplar Bluff, Twin Rivers, and Neelyville School Districts.
A full election guide for the 2024 Municipal Election is available on our website.
POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL NAMED MASC STATE PRESIDENT SCHOOL
One thousand students will be coming to Poplar Bluff next year for a state convention.
According to school officials, Poplar Bluff High School will host the Missouri Association of Student Councils State Convention next year, a three-day workshop that is projected to bring 1,000 students and 100 advisers to the community.
PBHS was named the State President School during the 76th annual MASC Convention held earlier this month at Carthage High School, and will play a role in leading the organization this year.
Officials say that this is the first time that PBHS has been named the State President school.
In addition to landing the 2025 convention bid, the PBHS Student Council was named a gold-level Honor Council of Excellence for the fifth year in a row and earned the Special Olympics Missouri School of Character Award of Merit for the third consecutive year.
KENNETT MAN SENTENCED ON DRUG AND GUN CHARGES
A Kennett man has been sentenced to almost a decade in prison for selling methamphetamine in Dunklin County.
48 year old Anthony Emery pleaded guilty in December to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession of firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
He admitted to possessing methamphetamine that he intended to sell to others and a loaded firearm to protect the meth.
Emery was sentenced this week to eight years in prison.
CULVERT REPLACEMENTS SET FOR THIS WEEK IN CARTER COUNTY
Route C in Carter County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace several culverts under the roadway.
The section of roadway being reduced is located between U.S. Route 60 and Route F near Van Buren.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. today and tomorrow.
NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE REDUCED FOR SHOULDER WORK THIS WEEK
Route U in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane for most of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder work.
The work zone is located from U.S. Highway 61 to County Road 732 near New Madrid.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Thursday.
2024 April 2nd Municipal Election Voter Guide
A guide to what will be appearing on your ballot during the April 2024 General Municipal Election
Butler County:
Poplar Bluff Proposition: Shall the City of Poplar Bluff impose a city-wide sales tax of three percent on all tangible personal property retail sales of adult-use marijuana sold in the city of Poplar Bluff.
Yes -
No -
Butler County Fire Protection District - Board Director
Chris Browning -
Robert Helton -
City of Fisk - Mayor
Nancy Kay Stewart -
Doug Mosbey -
City of Fisk - Ward One Alderperson
Jeff Ledbetter -
Heather Mosbey -
City of Neelyville - Ward One Alderman
Vickie L. LeCroy -
Amanda Collier -
City of Neelyville - Ward Two Alderman
Philip Flurry -
Robin C. Reeves -
City of Poplar Bluff - Ward Two Councilman
David Boyer -
Mack Campbell -
Marty Paskel -
City of Qulin - Ward One Alderperson
Charles Galbraith Jr. -
Cheryl L. Johnson -
Carter County:
Property Tax Reduction Act - Shall the West Carter County Ambulance Association impose a sales tax of one half of one percent for the purpose of providing revenues for the operation of the West Carter County Ambulance Association and the total property tax levy on properties within the West Carter County Ambulance Association shall be reduced annually by an amount which reduces property tax revenues by an amount equal to fifty percent of the previous year’s revenue collected from this sales tax?
Yes -
No -
City of Ellsinore Question - Shall the city of Ellsinore conduct municipal elections in accordance with subsection 1 of section 115.124 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri such that when the number of candidates seeking office are equal to the number of positions to be filed, resulting in the uncontested elections for such office, no election would be held.
Yes -
No -
City of Grandin Question - Shall the city of Grandin conduct municipal elections in accordance with subsection 1 of section 115.124 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri such that when the number of candidates seeking office are equal to the number of positions to be filed, resulting in the uncontested elections for such office, no election would be held.
Yes -
No -
City of Van Buren Question - Shall the city of Van Buren conduct municipal elections in accordance with subsection 1 of section 115.124 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri such that when the number of candidates seeking office are equal to the number of positions to be filed, resulting in the uncontested elections for such office, no election would be held.
Yes -
No -
City of Grandin - Mayor
Phillip C. Phelps
Diana Brower
City of Grandin - At Large Alderman (Vote for 2)
David Townsend
Jim Tucker
Steven Drwenski
Dunklin County:
County Sales Tax - Shall Dunklin County, impose a countywide sales tax of three percent (3%) on all tangible personal property
retail sales of adult use marijuana sold in Dunklin County?
Yes -
No -
Clarkton Question - Shall the City of Clarkton impose a local use tax at the same rate as the total local sales tax rate, provided that if the local sales tax rate is reduced or raised by voter approval, the local use tax rate shall also be reduced or raised by the same action?
Yes -
No -
Kennett Question - Shall the City of Kennett impose a sales tax of three percent (3%) on all retail sales of adult use marijuana sold in the City of Kennett?
Yes -
No -
Senath Question - Shall the City of Senath impose a sales tax of three percent (3%) on all retail sales of adult-use marijuana sold in the City of Senath?
Yes -
No -
City of Campbell - Ward 2 Alderman
Bryan S. McClendon
Cary M. Whorton
Junior Brown
City of Clarkton - Mayor
Eunice Diane Riley -
Clinton Ray “CJ” Vannasdall Jr. -
City of Clarkton - Chief of Police
David Dillard -
Jason Cradduck -
City of Holcomb - Mayor
Ricky Peters -
Jerry Young -
City of Kennett- Ward 4 Council Member
Steve Panousis -
Juan Toscano -
Scott Hamlett -
Brittany Jenkins -
City of Kennett- Ward 5 Council Member
Samantha Sebastian -
Brandon Davis -
Bob Young -
City of Malden - Ward 1 Councilmember
Rose Downs -
Tomorro Antwine -
City of Malden - Ward 2 Councilmember
Robert House -
Nollie “Cookie” Smith-Burnett -
City of Malden - Ward 3 Councilmember
Charles Dierks -
Harold Jones -
New Madrid County:
New Madrid County Question - Shall the County of New Madrid, Missouri, impose a sales tax in the amount of three percent (3%) on all tangible personal property retail sales of adult use marijuana sold in the County of New Madrid?
Yes -
No -
Lilbourn Question - Shall the position of Lilbourn City Collector be appointed by the Board of Alderman by the City of Lilbourn with approval by the Mayor?
Yes -
No -
Portageville Question - Shall the municipality of Portageville impose a sales tax of one half of one percent (1/2 of 1%) for the purpose of funding capital improvements, such tax to terminate automatically 10 years after the imposition thereof?
Yes -
No -
City of Lilbourn - Mayor
Larry Hamilton -
Robert Taylor -
City of Lilbourn - Collector
Virgie Johnson -
Brian Mays -
City of Lilbourn - Ward 1 Alderman
Larry Jackson
Pamela A. Small
Cynthia Dodds
City of Lilbourn - Ward 2 Alderman
Denise Comstock
Richard “Dickie” Kolwyck
Benji Henry
City of New Madrid - Mayor
Kevin Lyons
Richard Bodi (Dickie)
Nick White
City of Portageville - Ward 1 Alderman
Patty Estes Johnson -
Gary Faulk -
Ripley County:
Doniphan Proposition Teach: Shall the Board of Education of the Doniphan R-I School District, be authorized to increase the operating tax levy to $3.6000 per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation for the purposes of attracting and retaining quality certified and support staff, maintaining facilities, and meeting additional operating expenses?
Yes -
No -
Doniphan Question - Shall the Doniphan Special Road District maintain the levy $0.1500 in excess of the current $0.2130 levy made by the Road District Commission? This levy is to be for road maintenance and is to be in effect for three years. This is an extension of the levy already in place.
Yes -
No -
Ripley County Public Water Supply District #2 - Sub District #3
Steve Amlong -
Robert D. Charles -
Doniphan Special Road District - Road Commissioner
Bari P. Chase -
Ron Barnett -
Stoddard County:
Bernie Proposition - Shall the Board of Alderman of the City of Bernie provide by ordinance for the appointment of a Collector as provided for by the Statutes of the State of Missouri?
Yes -
No -
Dexter Proposition - Shall the City of Dexter issue its combined waterworks and sewerage system revenue bonds in the amount of up to $32,000,000 for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, extending, and improving the City’s existing combined waterworks and sewerage system, the cost of operation and maintenance of said system and the principal of and interest on said revenue bonds to be payable solely from the revenues derived by the city from the operation of its combined waterworks and sewerage system, including all future extensions and improvements thereto?
Yes -
No -
Duck Creek Township Road District Question - Shall the Duck Creek Township General Road District levy a Special Road & Bridge Tax Levy for thirty-five cents on the one hundred dollar assessed valuation in said road district for the next four years with the first year being the present tax year?
Yes -
No -
Dudley Question - Shall the Dudley Special Road District levy a Special Road & Bridge Tax Levy for thirty-five cents on the one hundred dollar assessed valuation in said road district for the next four years with the first year being the present tax year?
Yes -
No -
Puxico Special School Levy Proposition - Shall the Board of Education of the Puxico R-VIII School District, for the purpose of providing additional funds for maintaining, improving, or replacing its facilities, retaining quality certified and support staff, and meeting the operating expenses of the district, be authorized to increase the operating tax levy to $3.3400 per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation in Tax Year 2024 and to $3.5400 per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation in Tax Year 2025?
Yes -
No -
Stoddard County Health Board (Vote for 2)
Frank Killian -
Cale Williams -
Matthew Harris -
Jeff Riddle -
City of Advance - Ward 1 Alderman
James Hamlin -
Tim Hill Sr. -
City of Bernie - Ward 2 Alderman
Stephen Wayne Williams -
Trevor Williams -
Lonnie Vickers -
Krista Armbruster -
City of Bernie - Ward 3 Alderman
Adam Brinley -
Barry Zimmerman -
City of Bloomfield - Ward 1 Alderman
Nick Roe -
Patricia Wilson -
Mariah Morlan -
City of Bloomfield - Ward 2 Alderman
Donna Deardorff -
Jacob Goodin -
Wayne County:
Wayne County Sales Tax - Shall the County of Wayne extend a current countywide sales tax of one half of one percent for another period of six years, to expire on September 30, 2030 and continue a one hundred percent (100%) reduction of general revenue property tax?
Yes -
No -
Piedmont Question - Shall the city of Piedmont impose a sales tax of three percent (3%) on all retail sales of adult use marijuana sold in the city of Piedmont?
Yes -
No -
Piedmont Bond Question - Shall the City of Piedmont issue its combined waterworks and sewerage system revenue bonds in the amount of $15,000,000 for the purpose of acquiring, constructing, furnishing, equipping, extending and improving the City's combined waterworks and sewerage system, the cost of operation and maintenance of said system and the principal of and interest on said revenue bonds to be payable solely from the revenues derived by the City from the operation of its combined waterworks and sewerage system, including all future extensions and improvements thereto?
Yes -
No -
City of Greenville - Mayor
David J. Ritzu -
Jason C. Hill -
City of Williamsville - Mayor
Lee Hillis -
Amanda Crutchfield-Smith -
City of Williamsville - At Large Alderman (Vote for 2)
Helen Edwards -
Michael Meyer -
Sharon L. Eudaley -
School Board Elections:
Bell City R-2 School District Board of Education (Vote for 3)
Mark Anderson
Sarah Bailey
Eric Bowling
Garrett McIntyre
Bloomfield R-14 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Justin Bell
Randall McCollom
Brad Warner
Darin Davis
Campbell R-2 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Bryce Durham -
Dalton Ezell -
Shawn Belcher -
Clearwater R-1 School District Directors (Vote for 2)
Kyle Allen
Kevin Kinnard
Roger Bishop
Matt Graham
Dexter R-11 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Aaron Mathis -
Preston Clark -
Taylor Joyner -
Doniphan R-1 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Kim Kellerman
James Monaghan
Kathreen Friend
East Carter County R-2 Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Gabe Thompson
Jeremy Reynolds
Bryan House
Holcomb R-3 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Austin Davidson
Daniel McNabb
Rex McElwrath
Malden R-1 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Jeremy Holloway
Lynnette Jenkins
Benjamin Brown
Naylor R-2 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Timothy Ryan Ainley -
Linda Jo Lunsford -
Jeff Sullivan -
Neelyville R-4 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Marco Gavino
Jack Stull
Tracee Stotts
New Madrid County R-1 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Aaron Griffin
Mary Kay Davis
Kevin Lyons
Portageville School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Matt Brasher
Ronnie Gene Adams
Chris Sutton
Towina M. Jones
Tiffany Jackson-Edmondson
Jarrett Warren
Poplar Bluff R-1 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Timothy Dale Gaebler -
Heather Rommel -
Jamie Hickson -
Ken Davis -
Curtis Fouts -
Puxico R-8 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
John R. Davis -
Joe Hodges -
April Burchard -
Richland R-1 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Chris Porter -
Landon Wheeler -
Dennis McGarity Jr. -
Senath-Hornersville C-8 Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Robby Shrum
Bart Branum
Dustin Jackson
Kristina Reed
Twin Rivers R-10 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Monica King Woolem -
Jerry Whitlow -
Keith Parker -
Van Buren R-1 School District Board of Education (Vote for 2)
Lisa Burke -
Erik McSpadden -
David Ryan Baldridge -
Andrew Ross -
Tuesday, March 26, 2024
PUXICO MAN KILLED IN MONDAY MORNING CRASH
A Puxico man has died following a crash Monday morning in Stoddard County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Vaden Woolard was driving on Highway J when his vehicle traveled off the roadway, struck a culvert, and overturned.
Woolard, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected from the vehicle and later pronounced dead at the scene by Stoddard County Coroner Brent Stidham.
PUXICO MAN KILLED IN MONDAY MORNING CRASH
A Puxico man has died following a crash Monday morning in Stoddard County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 41 year old Vaden Woolard was driving on Highway J when his vehicle traveled off the roadway, struck a culvert, and overturned.
Woolard, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected from the vehicle and later pronounced dead at the scene by Stoddard County Coroner Brent Stidham.
The crash occurred shortly before 9 am, two miles west of Puxico.
MOTORCYCLE CRASHES DURING PURSUIT WITH AREA POLICE OFFICERS
A motorcycle crashed Sunday while attempting to flee from Poplar Bluff police officers.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, officers had attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the motorcycle when the pursuit began.
The operator, identified as 55 year old Mark Mock, of Poplar Bluff, crashed the motorcycle a short time later.
After getting the suspect into custody, a medical evaluation was completed due to Mock not wearing a helmet when the crash occurred.
Several items of drug paraphernalia were located, along with a crystal substance and marijuana.
Officials say that Mock also had two active warrants for his arrest and was lodged in the Butler County Justice Center.
FOURTH PERSON DIES IN CONNECTION TO CRASH IN BUTLER COUNTY
Updating a story we have been following for you, a fourth person has died in connection to a crash Friday evening in Butler County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred when a vehicle driven by 36 year old Andrea Brewer, of Ellington, crossed the centerline of US Highway 67 and struck another vehicle head on.
Brewer and the driver of the second vehicle, 61 year old Randall Tittsworth, of Camp Point, Illinois, were pronounced dead at the scene.
A 15 year old passenger in Brewer’s vehicle was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital where she was later pronounced dead.
A passenger in Tittsworth’s vehicle, 57 year old Kristi Heaton, of Little Rock, Arkansas was flown to a Memphis hospital where she was pronounced dead Sunday morning.
TWIN RIVERS PRESCHOOL SCREENING AND KINDERGARTEN ENROLLMENT SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK
Officials in the Twin Rivers R-10 School District have announced they will be holding preschool screening and kindergarten enrollment this week.
Parents should bring their children, who are up to five years of age and not yet in kindergarten, for the screening which will be held today and tomorrow at the Broseley High School.
Both events are from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
Screening will be conducted in areas of health, vision, hearing, dental, speech, language, and development.
Each child should bring their immunization records, birth certificate, social security card, and a parent’s picture ID. Children enrolling in kindergarten must also bring three items providing proof of residency.
To make an appointment, call 573-328-4400 for Qulin or 573-967-3607 for Fisk.
SUSPECTS TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO BURGLARY AT AREA BUSINESS
Suspects have been taken into custody in connection to a reported burglary.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, at around 5:30 pm on Saturday officers responded to a burglary in progress at a local plumbing business.
Officials say that the suspects were located and taken into custody. The stolen items were also returned to the business.
The case was referred to the juvenile office.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN TODAY ON ROUTE W IN BUTLER COUNTY
Route W in Butler County will be reduced to one lane over two days as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.
The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route O to Route KK near Poplar Bluff.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. both today and tomorrow.
Monday, March 25, 2024
THREE KILLED IN CRASH NEAR NEELYVILLE
Three people were killed in a two vehicle crash Friday evening in Butler County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred when a vehicle driven by 36 year old Andrea Brewer, of Ellington, crossed the centerline of US Highway 67 and struck another vehicle head on.
Brewer and the driver of the second vehicle, 61 year old Randall Tittsworth, of Camp Point, Illinois, were pronounced dead at the scene.
THREE KILLED IN CRASH NEAR NEELYVILLE
Three people were killed in a two vehicle crash Friday evening in Butler County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred when a vehicle driven by 36 year old Andrea Brewer, of Ellington, crossed the centerline of US Highway 67 and struck another vehicle head on.
Brewer and the driver of the second vehicle, 61 year old Randall Tittsworth, of Camp Point, Illinois, were pronounced dead at the scene.
A 15 year old passenger in Brewer’s vehicle was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital where she was later pronounced dead.
A passenger in Tittsworth’s vehicle received serious injuries and was flown to a Memphis hospital.
NAME RELEASED OF SUSPECT ARRESTED IN MALDEN SHOOTING
Updating a story we have been following for you, the name has been released of a person who was taken into custody in connection to a shooting in Southeast Missouri.
According to Malden Police Chief Jeff Mitchell, shortly after 2:30 pm Wednesday, officers responded to East Francis Street in connection to a shooting report.
One subject was transported to an area hospital for treatment and was in stable condition per the last information released.
23 year old Harvey Nix IV, of Malden, was arrested and is facing charges of assault 1st, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, and two counts of domestic assault.
Nix was transferred to the Dunklin County Justice Center where he was held on a $225,000 cash only bond.
TODAY’S TALK KWOC TO BROADCAST AREA BASKETBALL ALL-STAR GAME
Today’s Talk KWOC will be providing live video coverage of an all-star game featuring area basketball players this weekend.
The 6th Annual Big 3 Athletics Senior All-Star Basketball Game and 3 Point Contest will tip off at 5:30 pm on March 30th at the Van Buren High School. There will be boys and girls games with players from the Big Springs, Ozark Foothills, and Black River Conferences.
Awards will be given out following the boys game.
Today’s Talk KWOC will be there live providing video coverage of the event on the KWOC Facebook page and River Radio Youtube Page, brought to you by Missouri Highlands Health Care and Senator Jason Bean.
WOMAN FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL AFTER CRASHING INTO ROAD GRADER
An area woman was flown from the scene of a crash Thursday involving a road grader.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 39 year old Brandi Nierman was driving on US Highway 67, one mile south of Poplar Bluff, when her vehicle struck the back of a road grader.
Nierman suffered serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.
MAN FOUND DEAD FOLLOWING EARLY MORNING HOUSE FIRE
One person was found dead following a weekend house fire in Southeast Missouri.
The body of 70 year old Michael Russell was found following a fire at a home in Williamsville early Saturday Morning.
A cause for the fire is under investigation.
PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS ON INTERSTATE 55
Northbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.
According to officials, crews will be working from mile marker 25.8 to mile marker 27.2 near Hayti.
Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day.
Players participating in the Big 3 All Star Game
Here is a list of all of the players that will be participating in the Big 3 Athletics All-Star Game on March 30th!
Here is a list of all of the players that will be participating in the Big 3 Athletics All-Star Game on March 30th!
Dylan Price East Carter
Kenzie Redus Doniphan
Peyton Lowery Doniphan
Ciara Duckett East Carter
Breanna Dohleman East Carter
Layni Dobbins Neelyville
Amelia Douglas Twin Rivers
Anne Mittlestadt Twin Rivers
Makinlee Keister Cleawater
Enzley Dinkins South Iron
Anna Parker South Iron
Evin Montgomery Alton
Mckenzie Smith Alton
Ryleigh Holmes Couch
Abby Bettis Couch
Madison King Van Buren
Kinsley Murphy Van Buren
Saddie Lloyd Ellington
Zoe St.Gemme Lesterville
Abby McNail Lesterville
Gracie Green Neelyville
Brianna DeSpain Greenville
Ashlyn West Greenville
Carter Williams Twin Rivers
Zach Joiner Twin Rivers
Hunter Huff South Iron
Charles Robbins Clearwater
Grant Hale Neelyville
Danner Nicholson Van Buren
Holden Hills Van Buren
Marcus Cockrum Alton
Dillon Weyland Alton
Easton Evans Greenville
Trey Porter Greenville
Talon McDaniel Greenville
Landon Spoonemore Eminence
Lucas Cook Winona
Isaac Rawlings Doniphan
Luke Wallace Eminence
Ashton Soard Bunker
Landon Towe Clearwater
Brenden Reynolds East Carter
Wyatt Chase East Carter
Hunter Croy East Carter
Ralon Morrissey Ellington
Will Malone South Iron
Marquis Burse South Iron
Parker Crowder Couch
Jobe Sturgeon Couch
Andrew Buschmann Summersville
Garrin Greear Summersville
Hayden Summers Summersville
Aaron Walker Lesterville
Cole Hasty Lesterville
Dalton Poulette Alton
Benji Hawkins Van Buren
Dylan Weyland Alton
Friday, March 22, 2024
POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON RAPE AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES
A Poplar Bluff man has been taken into custody on multiple charges, including rape.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, officers were recently dispatched to a residence in reference to inappropriate photos and a video of a minor. 46 year old Jason Hicks-Simpson, of Poplar Bluff, was also identified in the photos and video.
POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON RAPE AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES
A Poplar Bluff man has been taken into custody on multiple charges, including rape.
According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, officers were recently dispatched to a residence in reference to inappropriate photos and a video of a minor. 46 year old Jason Hicks-Simpson, of Poplar Bluff, was also identified in the photos and video.
Officials say that several phones were seized containing evidence against Hicks-Simpson, who was taken into custody and lodged into the Butler County Justice Center.
He is facing charges of rape 1st degree, sodomy 1st degree, and possession of child pornography, among other charges.
MISSOURI DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY SET FOR THIS WEEKEND
Missouri Democrats will be making their voice heard this weekend for who they want to represent the party during this year’s presidential election.
In person voting for Missouri’s Democratic Presidential Primary will be held this Saturday from 8 am to noon in Butler County at New Life Christian Church United at 301 North Main Street in Poplar Bluff.
President Joseph Biden will appear on the ballot, as will five challengers. Voters can also choose the uncommitted option.
The winner will be announced on March 28th.
You can find voting sites in your county online at MissouriDemocrats.org.
OPENING DATE SET FOR WAPPAPELLO LAKE BEACHES
The date has been set for when Southeast Missouri residents can return to some of our great beaches.
According to officials, all U.S. Army Corps of Engineers beaches at Wappapello Lake will open on April 19th.
Anyone who heads to the beach is being asked to always wear your life jacket when you are in, near, or around water.
POPLAR BLUFF’S CAMERON SETTLE NAMED TO THE ACADEMIC ALL-STATE TEAM
A Mules basketball player is the latest to be recognized for the work he is doing off the court.
Poplar Bluff’s Cameron Settle has been named to the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association Academic All-State Team.
Cameron is currently ranked 4th in the Senior Class with an 11.714 GPA.
CEREMONY RECOGNIZING VIETNAM VETERANS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF
A ceremony recognizing veterans of the Vietnam War will be held today on the campus of Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.
“Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans,” is an early celebration for Vietnam War Veterans Day, which is March 29th.
The event will begin at 11 am this morning in the Plaster Free Enterprise Center and is open to the public, with no fee.
President of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1056 Larry Kimbrow says that they will be paying tribute to all Vietnam-era Veterans from the local area who didn't receive the proper "Welcome Home" they deserved upon returning from Vietnam.
They will also conduct a solemn "Bell Ringing Ceremony" to honor all the servicemen from southeast Missouri and northeast Arkansas who did not make it back.
MISSOURI STATE TREASURER MAKES STOP IN POPLAR BLUFF
Missouri State Treasurer Vivek Malek was in Poplar Bluff Wednesday to visit the Manufacturers Assistance Group and highlight the resources and opportunities available for individuals with disabilities.
Manufacturers Assistance Group is one of 89 workshop corporations located around the state which collectively provide employment for approximately 6,100 people with disabilities.
Malek was also discussing the MO ABLE program which helps eligible Missourians with disabilities to have the opportunity to open an investment account and save money without losing eligibility for other benefits, such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income.
Money from MO ABLE accounts may be spent for qualified expenses, including basic living costs, housing, transportation, employment training, education, health and wellness, and
financial management.
For more information about the Mo ABle program, visit MOAble.com.
Thursday, March 21, 2024
ONE IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING SHOOTING IN MALDEN
One person is in custody in connection to a shooting in Southeast Missouri.
According to Malden Police Chief Jeff Mitchell, shortly after 2:30 pm, Wednesday, officers responded to East Francis Street in connection to a shooting report.
One subject was transported to an area hospital for treatment, while another subject was taken into custody.
ONE IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING SHOOTING IN MALDEN
One person is in custody in connection to a shooting in Southeast Missouri.
According to Malden Police Chief Jeff Mitchell, shortly after 2:30 pm, Wednesday, officers responded to East Francis Street in connection to a shooting report.
One subject was transported to an area hospital for treatment, while another subject was taken into custody.
The names of the victim and suspect were not released, nor was how severe the victim’s injuries were.
We will keep following this story for you and bring you updates as they become available.
POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN AFTERNOON CRASH
A Poplar Bluff woman was one of two people hurt in a crash Wednesday afternoon.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Heather Shaw, of Poplar Bluff, allegedly pulled into the path of a vehicle on US Highway 67, one mile north of Poplar Bluff.
Both Shaw and the driver of the second vehicle, 73 year old David Wells, of Patterson, were seriously injured in the crash and transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.
LONGTIME DONIPHAN BASKETBALL COACH INDUCTED INTO MISSOURI BASKETBALL COACHES HALL OF FAME
A long time coach in Doniphan will be inducted into the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Jimbo Blackwell is one of eight inductees that will be honored at a ceremony on Saturday, April 27th in Springfield.
New Madrid County Central will also be represented during the ceremony as coach Dontre Jenkins has been chosen as the Class 3 Coach of the Year.
The Eagles' Jadis Jones was also named the MBCA Missouri Player of the Year for Class 3.
Jones, along with Sikeston’s Dontrez Williams, are among the 11 nominees for the Mr. Show-Me Basketball award, the highest player honor in the state.
NEW TECHNOLOGY LEADS TO SHOOTING ARREST
New technology has led to a shooting arrest in a Southeast Missouri community.
Sikeston DPS Captain Jon Broom tells KWOC News that on March 18th, officers were alerted to gunfire within the city using a technology called ShotSpotter.
The technology allows officers to quickly respond and locate victims of gun violence, witnesses, or evidence related to a shooting.
As a part of the investigation, a search warrant was obtained for a nearby residence which resulted in the discovery of a stolen AK-47 from Charleston, which is believed to be the gun used in the incident.
31 year old Antwan Terrance Davis, of Sikeston was taken into custody on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and stealing a firearm.
POPLAR BLUFF TRACK AND SWIMMING TEAM MEMBERS NAMED ACADEMIC ALL-STATE
Members of the Poplar Bluff Swimming and Track teams have been awarded Academic All-State Honors.
For the swimming team, Lily Gregory, Reece Prenger, Madelyn Gillihan, Savannah Hanner, Ava Richardson, Addison Shell, and Rebecca Stevens were named Academic All State.
Nine cross country runners for Poplar Bluff were also recognized for their achievements in the classroom, Nick Spain, Parker Hicks, Cameron Sisk, Wren Cotrell, Gracie Brown, Lily Reasons, Katherine Scott, and Marley Spain.
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.
Wednesday, March 20, 2024
SIX POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLERS CHOSEN AS SCHOLAR ALL-AMERICANS
Six wrestlers at Poplar Bluff High School have been recognized for their efforts in the classroom.
According to Poplar Bluff R-1 Athletics Director Kent Keith, Garrett Dearborn, Karson Rolland, Jack Ernest, Logan Hite, Guy Conner, and Zoë Freeman have all been chosen as USMC High School Scholar All-Americans.
Hite, Ernest, and Freeman, have also been selected as Missouri Wrestling Association Academic All-State.
SIX POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLERS CHOSEN AS SCHOLAR ALL-AMERICANS
Six wrestlers at Poplar Bluff High School have been recognized for their efforts in the classroom.
According to Poplar Bluff R-1 Athletics Director Kent Keith, Garrett Dearborn, Karson Rolland, Jack Ernest, Logan Hite, Guy Conner, and Zoë Freeman have all been chosen as USMC High School Scholar All-Americans.
Hite, Ernest, and Freeman, have also been selected as Missouri Wrestling Association Academic All-State.
TIP OFF TIME SET FOR LADY RAIDERS OPENING ROUND MATCHUP IN THE NJCAA TOURNAMENT
It will be an early afternoon start for the Lady Raiders in the NJCAA Division 1 Women’s Basketball Championship.
Three Rivers College earned the 11 seed for the tournament and will take on the 22 seed Mississippi Gulf Coast at 1:15 pm on March 27th in the opening round of the tournament.
If Three Rivers picks up the win, they will then advance to face the 6 seed Shelton State at 7:45 pm on March 28th.
The tournament will be broadcast live on ESPN Plus.
MISSOURI STATE TREASURER TO BE IN POPLAR BLUFF TODAY
Missouri State Treasurer Vivek Malek will be continuing a tour of Southeast Missouri today to discuss sheltered workshops.
Malek will be making an appearance at Manufacturers Assistance Group Sheltered Workshop on Cravens Road today as a part of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month to raise awareness about Missouri’s Sheltered Workshops and the MO-Able program.
The event is scheduled for noon to 12:45 pm.
OPEN ENROLLMENT SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK AT POPLAR BLUFF KINDERGARTEN CENTER
Open enrollment is scheduled for this week at the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center.
If you have a child who will be five years old by July 31st, you can get them enrolled for the next school year.
According to officials, open enrollment is set to take place from 9 am to 2 pm today and tomorrow at the 1200 Camp Road campus. There will also be a session available from 4:30 to 7 pm on Thursday.
Parents should remember to bring their children’s birth certificate, social security card, proof of residency, and shot records.
For more information, call 573-785-4905.
POPLAR BLUFF JUNIOR EAGLES TO HOST EASTER EGG HUNT
The Junior Eagles of Poplar Bluff are hosting an Easter Egg Hunt this weekend.
The event will be held at the Eagles Lodge, located at 14400 South Broadway in Poplar Bluff on Saturday, March 23rd, beginning at 11 am.
Kids up to 12 years old can participate. For more information, contact Chris Vanlear at 573-872-6606.
MDC RECOMMENDS YOU DON’T PLANT INVASIVE CALLERY PEAR TREE
Yesterday was the first official day of Spring and the Missouri Department of Conservation is cautioning residents to stay away from planting a specific kind of tree.
MDC officials are urging the public to avoid the Callery pear tree.
Also known as the Bradford pear, Cleveland Select, Autumn Blaze, or Aristocrat, the Callery pear tree is a highly invasive tree that multiplies quickly and crowds out Missouri native plants.
Callery pears’ ability to cross-pollinate is why many roadsides, rights-of-way, parks, and other natural areas are filled with white blooms every spring.
Missourians with Callery pear trees on their property have the opportunity to cut down their trees and receive a free, noninvasive tree in return at several “buy-back” events around the state on April 23, including in Kennett.
To qualify, participants must submit a photo of their cut-down Callery pear online. One free native tree will be provided to each registered participant at the selected location.
For more information on the buy-back events and how to register, visit MOInvasives.org.
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
ONE IN CUSTODY, THREE AT LARGE, IN CONNECTION TO EARLY MORNING PURSUIT IN POPLAR BLUFF
Three people are on the run following a pursuit that crossed state lines early Monday morning.
According to Lieutenant Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly after 5 am the PBPD was notified of a vehicle pursuit coming to the area. Officers of the Corning Police Department were pursuing a vehicle northbound on Highway 67.
Poplar Bluff officers responded to the area and discovered the suspect vehicle had crashed on Highway PP, east of the Highway 67 bypass, and that the 4 occupants of the vehicle fled on foot.
ONE IN CUSTODY, THREE AT LARGE, IN CONNECTION TO EARLY MORNING PURSUIT IN POPLAR BLUFF
Three people are on the run following a pursuit that crossed state lines early Monday morning.
According to Lieutenant Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly after 5 am the PBPD was notified of a vehicle pursuit coming to the area. Officers of the Corning Police Department were pursuing a vehicle northbound on Highway 67.
Poplar Bluff officers responded to the area and discovered the suspect vehicle had crashed on Highway PP, east of the Highway 67 bypass, and that the 4 occupants of the vehicle fled on foot.
One of the suspects, 21 year old Nathaniel Garrett, of Florissant, was taken into custody during a search of the area. The three remaining suspects are still at large.
The suspects are described as three black males in their early-
twenties; one with long hair and another wearing a white t-shirt and dark pants. The suspects are being considered armed and dangerous.
Anyone in the area is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776 if they have information on the whereabouts or identities of the suspects.
MISSOURI DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY SET FOR THIS WEEKEND
Missouri Democrats will be sounding their voice this weekend for who they want to represent the party during this year’s presidential election.
In person voting for Missouri’s Democratic Presidential Primary will be held this Saturday from 8 am to noon in Butler County at New Life Christian Church United at 301 North Main Street in Poplar Bluff.
President Joseph Biden will appear on the ballot, as will five challengers. Voters can also choose the uncommitted option.
The winner will be announced on March 28th.
You can find voting sites in your county online at MissouriDemocrats.org.
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS MASCOT TO VIEW ECLIPSE IN POPLAR BLUFF
The Kansas City Chiefs will be represented in Poplar Bluff during the upcoming eclipse.
It was announced Monday that KC Wolf, mascot of the Chiefs, will be at Poplar Bluff High School from 1 to 3 pm on Monday, April 8th.
The High School will serve as the main viewing station for the eclipse in Poplar Bluff.
The announcement was conducted at Missouri Highlands Healthcare.
24th ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT SET FOR NEXT MONTH
The 24th Annual Poplar Bluff School Foundation Golf Tournament is coming up at the end of next month.
The four person scramble tournament is scheduled for Friday, April 26th, at Ozark Ridge Golf Course. Tee time will be at noon.
All proceeds from the event will go towards the foundation scholarship fund and other educational opportunities.
If you would like to enter a team or become a hole sponsor, contact Carla Thompson at 573-785-7751 extension 5.
CITY WIDE CLEANUP EFFORT UNDERWAY IN DEXTER
A city wide cleanup effort has started in Dexter.
According to city officials, dumpsters have been set up in three separate locations around the city for residents to dispose of items at no cost.
Dumpsters are available in the gravel lot west of Park Lane Gymnasium, at the Omega Building on Highway 114, and at the corner of Walnut and Truitt Street.
Prohibited items include tires, yard waste, auto batteries, large appliances, and flammable or toxic materials.
Officials say that the dumpsters will be available through April 1st.
CARTER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THIS MORNING FOR BRIDGE MAINTENANCE
Route N in Carter County will be closed this morning as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.
The section of roadway being closed is located between County Roads 349 and 337 near Ellsinore.
Weather permitting, work will take place this morning from 8 a.m. to noon.
Monday, March 18, 2024
LADY RAIDERS EARN 11 SEED IN NJCAA WOMENS DIVISION 1 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
The Three Rivers College Lady Raiders have earned their fourth consecutive trip to the NJCAA Women’s Division 1 Basketball Tournament.
The Lady Raiders defeated State Fair Community College Friday night to win the Central District and Region 16 Championship.
During the NJCAA Selection show Sunday night, it was announced that the Lady Raiders earned the 11 seed and will take on Mississippi Gulf Coast in the opening round which will begin on March 26th in Casper, Wyoming. The Lady Raiders game is scheduled for the following day on March 27th.
LADY RAIDERS EARN 11 SEED IN NJCAA WOMENS DIVISION 1 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
The Three Rivers College Lady Raiders have earned their fourth consecutive trip to the NJCAA Women’s Division 1 Basketball Tournament.
The Lady Raiders defeated State Fair Community College Friday night to win the Central District and Region 16 Championship.
During the NJCAA Selection show Sunday night, it was announced that the Lady Raiders earned the 11 seed and will take on Mississippi Gulf Coast in the opening round which will begin on March 26th in Casper, Wyoming. The Lady Raiders game is scheduled for the following day on March 27th.
This year is the first time Mississippi Gulf Coast has qualified for the national tournament since 1977.
TEENAGER CHARGED WITH 1ST DEGREE MURDER IN PARAGOULD HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION
A teenager has been charged with first degree murder in connection to a homicide investigation in Northeast Arkansas.
Captain Jason Elms with the Paragould Police Department tells KWOC News that shortly after 8 am on March 12th, Paragould Emergency Services received a phone call of a deceased person with a gunshot wound on Magnolia Drive.
Officers found the victim had multiple gunshot wounds to the head and was missing personal property.
The victim was later identified as 18 year old Justin Bateson, of Ravenden Springs.
On March 14th, a suspect in the case, 19 year old Connor Grist, of Pocahontas, was arrested by the Pocahontas Police Department and transported to the Greene County Detention Center.
Grist has been formally charged with murder first degree, aggravated robbery, and possession of firearms by certain persons.
POPLAR BLUFF CLEANUP EVENT SET FOR THIS WEEKEND
An event aimed at cleaning up Poplar Bluff is scheduled for this weekend.
Total Cleanup of the Bluff will begin between 7 and 8 am on March 23rd at the Black River Coliseum.
Participants will receive essential cleanup supplies including trash bags, vests, and gloves. They will then be assigned specific areas for cleanup to ensure maximum coverage across the town.
All participants will automatically be entered into a drawing for a chance to win prizes including two tickets to see Night Ranger and two tickets to Jeff Foxworthy.
Food will be provided before and after the event as well. For more information, call Morgan or Maci at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce at 573-785-7761.
KIWANIS PANCAKE DAY SCHEDULED FOR MARCH 23RD
The Kiwanis Club of Poplar Bluff will be hosting the 86th Annual Pancake Day this month.
The event will be held from 6 am to noon on Saturday, March 23rd at the Poplar Bluff Junior High Cafeteria.
Tickets for the event are $6 and get you sausage, a drink, and all you can eat pancakes.
The event is being held to benefit Kiwanis Bacon Park.
SIGNAL IMPROVEMENTS TO BEGIN TODAY ALONG BUSINESS 60/67 IN BUTLER COUNTY
Business 60/67 in Butler County will undergo signal improvements beginning today along the route in Poplar Bluff.
Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation say the improvements should reduce overall delays and travel times.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Friday, March 22nd.
BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN PEMISCOT COUNTY
Route 164 in Pemiscot 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 between Cobblestone Lane and Division Street in Steele.
Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.
Friday, March 15, 2024
PEDESTRIAN DIES AFTER BEING STRUCK BY A VEHICLE NEAR KENNETT
A Cardwell man has died after getting hit by a vehicle early Thursday morning near Kennett.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 53 year old James Zurhorst was struck by a vehicle while walking on US Highway 412.
Zurhorst was pronounced dead at the scene by Dunklin County Coroner James Powell, shortly after 1 am Thursday morning.
PEDESTRIAN DIES AFTER BEING STRUCK BY A VEHICLE NEAR KENNETT
A Cardwell man has died after getting hit by a vehicle early Thursday morning near Kennett.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 53 year old James Zurhorst was struck by a vehicle while walking on US Highway 412.
Zurhorst was pronounced dead at the scene by Dunklin County Coroner James Powell, shortly after 1 am Thursday morning.
THREE RIVERS COLLEGE LADY RAIDERS TO HOST STATE FAIR TONIGHT FOR A SPOT IN THE NJCAA TOURNAMENT
The Three Rivers College Lady Raiders are one game away from an automatic entry into the NJCAA Division 1 Women’s Basketball Tournament.
The Lady Raiders will host State Fair Community College at 6 pm tonight in the Region 16 Tournament Finals.
With a win, the Lady Raiders can start preparing for a trip to Casper, Wyoming, where the national tournament will be played this year.
If the Lady Raiders fall tonight, they could still get in through one of the eight at large selections. The National Tournament selections and seedings will be announced Sunday night.
NEW MADRID COUNTY MAN GIVEN LIFE SENTENCE ON MURDER CHARGE
A sentence was handed down this week in an Illinois murder case involving a New Madrid County man.
According to authorities, 35 year old James Merritt, of Morehouse was sentenced to life in prison for the charge of murder 2nd degree.
The charge comes from an investigation into the death of 18 year old Haley Decker, of Normal, Illinois, whose body was found in March 2020.
In addition to the murder charge, Merritt was also sentenced to 20 years for the charge of armed criminal action, four years for the charge of tampering with physical evidence, and five years for the charge of trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation.
ROMBAUER CEMETERY ANNUAL BOARD MEETING TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND
The annual board meeting of the Rombauer Cemetery has been scheduled for this weekend.
The meeting will be held at 1 pm Saturday at the Rombauer Baptist Church fellowship hall. Anyone interested in maintaining the cemetery should attend the meeting.
For more information, call 573-413-7591.
PADDLEFISH SEASON BEGINS TODAY IN MISSOURI
Paddlefish season is beginning today for fishermen across the state of Missouri.
The season for the state’s major paddlefish waters -- Lake of the Ozarks, Harry S. Truman Reservoir, and Table Rock Lake – along with most other waters in the state runs from today through April 30th.
The season for the Mississippi River is today through May 15th with a fall season between September 15th and December 15th.
Paddlefish -- named for their large, paddle-shaped snouts -- are an ancient species that can grow to seven feet and weigh more than 100 pounds.
You can learn more about paddlefish, snagging regulations, and more at mdc.mo.gov.
STATE OFFICIALS URGE DRIVERS TO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE
St. Patrick’s Day is this weekend and state officials are urging everyone to celebrate responsibly.
According to authorities, law enforcement officers are teaming up with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to spread the message about the dangers of drunk driving.
According to NHTSA officials, from 2017 to 2021, a total of 272 lives were lost in drunk driving crashes during the St. Patrick’s Day period.
Drivers should also keep an eye out for pedestrians who have had too much to drink. Walking while intoxicated can also be deadly, as a lack of attention to your surroundings could put pedestrians at risk of getting hit by a vehicle.
Thursday, March 14, 2024
ONE IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING STABBING IN PARMA
A woman is in stable condition following a stabbing in Southeast Missouri.
According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, at around 6 pm Tuesday night, deputies responded to a residence in Parma for a 911 call.
A female had been stabbed and was transported to an area hospital for treatment.
The name of the victim has not been released.
ONE IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING STABBING IN PARMA
A woman is in stable condition following a stabbing in Southeast Missouri.
According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, at around 6 pm Tuesday night, deputies responded to a residence in Parma for a 911 call.
A female had been stabbed and was transported to an area hospital for treatment.
The name of the victim has not been released.
Officials say that Charles Walker was arrested a short time later and has been charged with domestic assault 1st degree - serious physical injury, armed criminal action, and tampering with physical evidence in felony prosecution.
He is being held on a $100,000 cash only bond.
HEAVY RAINFALL POSSIBLE WITH STORM SYSTEM ARRIVING TONIGHT
Heavy rainfall and a slight risk of severe weather is possible with a storm system arriving in the area tonight.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, heavy rainfall in thunderstorms tonight and early tomorrow morning may lead to localized flash flooding for most of Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas.
There is also a slight risk of scattered severe thunderstorms with this system. The primary hazards if severe weather were to develop include quarter size hail and damaging wind gusts. There is also a possibility of isolated tornadoes.
OPENING DATES SET FOR MULTIPLE WAPPAPELLO LAKE CAMPGROUNDS
Multiple Wappapello Lake Campgrounds will be opening to the public soon.
According to the Wappapello Lake US Army Corps of Engineers, the Greenville and Redman Creek West Campgrounds will open to campers today.
The People’s Creek Lower Campground is scheduled to open on April 10th.
Officials say the Redman Creek East Campground is closed until further notice.
You can find more information at the Wappapello Lake US Army Corps of Engineers Facebook page.
NEW BOOKLETS NOW AVAILABLE FOR HUNTERS IN MISSOURI
Spring is rapidly approaching and the Missouri Department of Conservation has made information available for hunters to prepare for the upcoming seasons.
Missouri hunters, trappers, and fishermen, can soon get the 2024 Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet, Summary of Missouri Hunting and Trapping Regulations, and Summary of Missouri Fishing Regulations at MDC regional offices, MDC nature centers, and other places where permits are sold.
Officials say the booklets have information on related permits, seasons, species, regulations, limits, conservation areas, sunrise and sunset tables, and more.
Additional information is also available at mdc.mo.gov.
MULTI-WEEK PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY IN RIPLEY COUNTY
Route BB in Ripley County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction for most of the rest of this month as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.
The section of roadway involved in the project is located from Route 160 to Osprey Lane near Flatwoods.
Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Thursday, March 28th.
SHOULDER WORK TO CAUSE DELAYS IN DUNKLIN COUNTY
Route 164 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder work.
The work zone is located from Route Y to Route P near Rives.
Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.