Wednesday, April 17, 2024

CORNMAN RE-ELECTED AS MAYOR OF POPLAR BLUFF

Shane Cornman will be retaining his spot as Mayor of Poplar Bluff.

Cornman was reelected as Mayor by the Poplar Bluff City Council Monday night for the 2024-2025 term.

The Council also chose Councilwoman Lisa Parson to serve as Mayor Pro Tem.

SIX PEOPLE KILLED IN CLAY COUNTY CRASH

Multiple people were killed in a two vehicle crash Monday in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the accident occurred between a tractor-trailer and an SUV at the intersection of Arkansas State Highway 135 and U.S. Highway 62 near Corning.

Four adults and two minors were pronounced dead at the scene by the Clay County Coroners’ Office. Officials say that autopsies will be conducted at the Arkansas State Crime Lab to verify the identities of the deceased.

The tractor-trailer driver was flown to a Memphis hospital, where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

MULES BASEBALL TEAM TO HOST FUNDRAISING GOLF TOURNAMENT

The Poplar Bluff Mules Baseball team will be hosting a fundraising golf tournament this week.

The event has been scheduled for 12:30 pm on April 20th at the Ozark Ridge Golf Course in Poplar Bluff.

Registration will begin at 11:30 am and teams can register the day of the event. The cost is $65 per person or $260 per four person team.

For more information, contact Deanna Bratcher at 573-429-9062.

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED, ONE FACING CHARGES, FOLLOWING CRASH NEAR DONIPHAN

Two people were seriously injured in a crash Monday evening in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 20 year old Caleb Salinas, of Doniphan, was driving on Route Y when his vehicle ran off the side of the roadway, struck a ditch, and overturned.

Salinas suffered serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a Memphis hospital. A 14 year old passenger also received serious injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

According to an arrest report from the Highway Patrol, Salinas is facing multiple charges, including driving while intoxicated - alcohol and careless and imprudent driving resulting in a crash.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL AWARDED $50,000 TO HELP CREATE PATHWAYS TO CAREER FIELDS

Poplar Bluff High School has been awarded $50,000 in grant money to help create three new pathways in lucrative career fields under Project Lead the Way.

According to school officials, beginning in the 2024/25 school year, students will be able to choose from biomedical, computer science and engineering programs.

Additionally, algebra one advantage—in its pilot phase through the nonprofit organization—will be added as a hands-on supplement to the mathematics curriculum already in place.

The Poplar Bluff School District is the first in Southeast Missouri to adopt all modules under the national curriculum provider, according to Alana Dowdy, PLTW director of school success in Missouri.

SHOULDER REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS FOR THE REST OF THIS MONTH ON US HIGHWAY 60

Westbound Route 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced for the rest of this month as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder repairs.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route AH to Route FF near Essex.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Tuesday, April 30th from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day.

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

POSSIBLE SEVERE WEATHER FORECAST FOR TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas are under a higher risk for severe storms today.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, showers and thunderstorms are forecast to move across the region this afternoon and tonight.

Officials say there are chances that these storms may be strong to severe, with all modes of severe weather possible, including large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes.

A cold front will move across the area on Wednesday, allowing more showers and thunderstorms to develop.

TEN INJURED IN CRASH IN SOUTHERN BUTLER COUNTY

A total of 10 people were injured in a single vehicle crash Monday afternoon in Southern Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at around 3:20 pm on US Highway 67, one mile north of the state line, when a transit van driven by 59 year old Gary Blevins, of Pocahontas, Arkansas, ran off the left side of the roadway and overturned.

Blevins, and one other passenger, suffered serious injuries and were flown to a Memphis hospital.

Eight other passengers suffered moderate or minor injuries and were transported to local hospitals.

THREE SHOT DURING LARGE GATHERING IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Three people were shot during a large gathering over the weekend in Southeast Missouri.

Sergeant Tyler Rowe with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety tells KWOC News that at around 11 pm Saturday night, officers observed a large crowd in the area of Branum and Lora in Sikeston.

Officers began to clear the area when several gunshots were heard. Three victims with gunshot wounds were located in the area and transported from the scene to be treated for their injuries. Several vehicles were also struck by gunfire.

Officers were able to locate two suspects in the area at the time of the gunshots and took them into custody. The names of the subjects taken into custody and the victims are not being released at this time.

The SEMO Major Case Squad has been activated and an investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact Sikeston DPS at 573-471-4711 to speak with a detective or call the anonymous tip line at 573-475-3774.

ONE IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO WEEKEND PURSUIT IN POPLAR BLUFF

One person has been taken into custody in connection to a weekend pursuit in Poplar Bluff.

Officials with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tell KWOC News that shortly before 7 pm Saturday night, officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Shelby Road, which resulted in a vehicle pursuit.

Once the pursuit came to an end, 24 year old Isiah Feltz, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested and charged with resisting, careless and imprudent driving, endangering the welfare of a child, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and multiple traffic violations.

Feltz also reportedly had an active Butler County warrant.

Following the arrest, Feltz was lodged at the Butler County Justice Center.

JOB FAIR SET FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

A Job Fair has been scheduled for today in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Butler County Community Resource Council, the Parents Working Committee will host the Job Fair and Career Expo from 10 am to 2 pm at the Libla Family Sports Complex on the campus of Three Rivers College.

There will be several vendors ready to share their open positions with job seekers and some will be doing on-site interviews.

For more information, contact the Community Resource Council at 573-776-7830.

BRIDGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN TODAY ON MISSOURI HIGHWAY 53

Route 53 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction beginning today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

The section of Route 53 is located between Route WW and Henderson Road near Campbell.

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

Monday, April 15, 2024

BLACK BEAR STRUCK AND KILLED BY A VEHICLE NEAR CARTER AND SHANNON COUNTY LINE

A black bear was struck and killed by a vehicle Friday in Southeast Missouri.

According to Carter County Conservation Agent Avery Crisp, the bear was struck on US Highway 60 near the Carter and Shannon County line.

The vehicle suffered minor damage, and neither of the occupants were injured.

Crisp says that motorists should be on the lookout for bears and other wildlife while traveling.

SPRING TURKEY SEASON BEGINS TODAY IN MISSOURI

The regular spring turkey season is underway in Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, Turkey Season will run through May 5th.

Conservation officials say that two male turkeys or turkeys with visible beard may be taken during the season. Hunters are allowed to take only one turkey during the first week and if you do not take one during the first week, then you may take two turkeys during the second and third week.

Hunters are also not allowed to take two turkeys on the same day.

For more information, visit mdc.mo.gov.

TWO FACING CHARGES AFTER CHILD FOUND UNATTENDED ON POPLAR BLUFF ROADWAY

Two people are facing charges following an incident in Poplar Bluff last week.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly after midnight on Friday, officers responded to the area of Magnolia and Pine Street in reference to a child in the roadway with no supervision.

33 year old Jamie Hardesty, of Poplar Bluff was arrested and charged with abuse and neglect and endangering the welfare of a child.

Officials say that 35 year old Jesse Schaeding, of Poplar Bluff, was also charged, but remained on scene.

The incident has been reported to the Child Abuse hotline.

FLORIDA MAN FLOWN TO AN AREA HOSPITAL FOLLOWING CRASH NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

A Florida man was seriously injured in a crash Friday morning in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at around 5:30 am Friday morning when a freightliner ran off the left side of Northbound US Highway 67, crossed the median, struck a van, and then overturned.

The driver of the freightliner, 70 year old Jovica Persic, of St. Petersburg, Florida, was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital with serious injuries.

No one was injured in the vehicle that was hit.

AREA POLICE CELEBRATE NATIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATORS WEEK

This week is National Public Safety Telecommunicators week and multiple area police departments are celebrating their communications departments.

The event honors telecommunications personnel in the public safety community.

You can find more information about National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week online at www.npstw.org.

EARTHQUAKE SHAKES SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

There have been multiple reports of people feeling an earthquake early Friday morning in Southeast Missouri.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.8 earthquake was recorded at 3:36 am Friday morning.

The earthquake was centered in Risco and had a depth of almost eight miles.

BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT

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

The section of roadway being closed is located between County Road 316 and County Road 320 near Poplar Bluff.

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

Friday, April 12, 2024

DEXTER K9 DEATH INVESTIGATION CONTINUES

An investigation into the death of a K9 officer in Stoddard County is ongoing.

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Sawyer Smith, his office is broadening and continuing the criminal investigation regarding alleged animal abuse and neglect of Dexter PD K9 Apollo and K9 Knox.

Last week, criminal charges were filed against Derrick Durall, who had been the K9 handler for the Dexter Police Department since December 2020. Durall faces two counts of felony animal abuse and two counts of misdemeanor animal neglect.

He has also been fired from his position.

HUNTERS DONATE ALMOST 250 THOUSAND POUNDS OF VENISON TO SHARE THE HARVEST PROGRAM

Missouri hunters have donated almost 250,000 pounds of meat to the state’s Share the Harvest Program.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri deer hunters donated 247,575 pounds of venison to the program this past deer season, including almost 5,400 whole deer.

Officials say that the donated deer meat goes to local food banks and food pantries to help feed hungry Missourians.

Since the program was started in 1992, it has provided nearly 5 million pounds of lean, healthy venison for hungry people all around the state.

THE DEADLINE IS TODAY TO PURCHASE TAGS FOR BULKY ITEM PICKUP

Today is the final day for Poplar Bluff residents to purchase tags for this month’s Bulky Item Pickup.

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

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

Today is the final day to purchase item tags at City Hall to be included in next week’s pick up, which will be conducted on Tuesday, April 16th.

JOB FAIR SET FOR APRIL 16TH IN POPLAR BLUFF

A Job Fair has been scheduled for next week in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Butler County Community Resource Council, the Parents Working Committee will host the Job Fair and Career Expo from 10 am to 2 pm on April 16th at the Libla Family Sports Complex on the campus of Three Rivers College.

There will be several vendors ready to share their open positions with job seekers and some will be doing on-site interviews.

For more information, contact the Community Resource Council at 573-776-7830.

SHOULDER REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS MONTH IN THE ESSEX AREA

Route 114 in Stoddard County will be reduced for most of this month as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform shoulder repairs.

The section of roadway being reduced is located between Trotter Street and County Road 763 near Essex.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily through Tuesday, April 29.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR THE NEXT WEEK ON INTERSTATE 155

Interstate 155 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction for the next week as construction crews perform bridge maintenance.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from mile marker 9.2 to the end of state maintenance.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday, April 19.

Thursday, April 11, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE CHILD PORNOGRAPHY RELATED CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man was recently taken into custody on multiple child pornography related felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 46 year old Joshua McKnight was arrested Tuesday afternoon on a charge of promoting child pornography and three counts of possession of child pornography.

While conducting an on-line child pornography investigation last month, investigators identified a device associated with the internet account of McKnight, which had distributed digital files identified as child pornography.

On Tuesday, investigators executed a Butler County search warrant at McKnight’s home where they found digital files of child pornography on electronic devices.

Following the arrest, McKnight was held in the Butler County Jail on a $100,000 bond.

GRANT MONEY ANNOUNCED FOR LOCAL FIRST RESPONDERS

Multiple Southeast Missouri first responder organizations will be receiving grant money.

Governor Mike Parson announced that the Missouri Department of Public Safety has approved 70 grants totaling $5 million to law enforcement, fire service, and EMS providers in class three counties across the state for new equipment to allow first responders to better respond to emergencies and provide additional protection as they do their jobs.

In Southeast Missouri, the Poplar Bluff, Fire Department was chosen for $23,818, the Butler County Sheriff's Office was awarded $24,700, the Malden Department of Public Safety will receive $9,120, the New Madrid County Ambulance District will get $338,419, the Stoddard County Ambulance District was chosen for $218,550, and the Stoddard County Sheriff's Office was awarded $91,800.

Funding for this public safety grant is from Missouri's American Rescue Plan Act funds.

RAYNI DAY MIRACLES MEMORIAL 5K RUN SCHEDULED FOR JUNE 15TH

Area runners will be flocking to Poplar Bluff this summer for the Rayni Day Miracles Memorial Run.

The 5k run will be held on Saturday, June 15th, with registration beginning at 7 am and the race starting at 8 am.

The entry fee is $30 for the 5k and $25 for the one mile fun run. You can sign up for the run online at Runsignup.com.

Rayni Day Miracles is a nonprofit organization serving children with life-threatening illnesses through a variety of programs at no cost to the children or their families.

More information is available on the Rayni Day Miracles Memorial Run Facebook page.

REGISTRATION NOW AVAILABLE FOR POPLAR BLUFF BUDDY BALL

Registration is now available for the 2024 season of Poplar Bluff Buddy Ball.

Officials say there will be two leagues this year, age 8 to Jr. High and High School and older.

Each league has limited spots, so anyone wanting to join is asked to sign up early.

You can sign up online at www.PBBuddyBall.com and the deadline to register is April 20th.

REPAIRS FORCE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF WEIGH STATION ON SOUTHBOUND INTERSTATE 57

The southbound Charleston weigh station on Interstate 57 in Mississippi County will be closed through the middle of next month as construction crews remove and replace the on and off ramps.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Friday, May 10th.

Officials say that the weigh station will remain closed 24 hours a day until the work is completed.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN THE BRAGG CITY AREA

Route A in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs. 

The section of roadway is located from U.S. Highway 412 to County Road 286 near Bragg City.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through 5 p.m.

Wednesday, April 10, 2024

11 MONTH OLD CHILD FOUND DEAD FOLLOWING FIRE IN MALDEN

A young child was found dead following a fire Monday in Dunklin County.

Malden Department of Public Safety Chief Jeff Mitchell tells KWOC News that shortly after 4 pm Monday, DPS was dispatched to a structure fire on North Decatur Street.

While firefighters were working to extinguish the fire, one fatality was discovered in the residence.

Mitchell says that the fire resulted in the death of an eleven-month-old child.

One person was injured when they tried to get into the residence to save the child and another was injured while getting out of the home. Both were transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Mitchell says that the State Fire Marshal's Office determined the fire to be accidental and the investigation is ongoing.

FOUR DETAINED FOLLOWING PURSUIT IN POPLAR BLUFF

Four people were detained on Monday following a pursuit in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the pursuit began after an officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop at 5th and Park Street.

The fleeing vehicle eventually crashed into a ditch on County Road 203, at which time the subjects fled on foot.

Officers were able to locate and detain all of the subjects involved, who have been identified as Lynda Presley, Benjamen Simpson, and Curtis Moore, along with a white male juvenile.

Officials say that Presley, Simpson, and Moore were processed and lodged at the Butler County Justice Center.

LADY RAIDERS BASKETBALL PLAYER NAMED NJCAA ALL AMERICAN

A member of the Three Rivers College Women’s Basketball team is receiving national recognition.

Sophomore Da’Kariya Jackson has been named a 2nd team NJCAA All American.

Jackson played in all 34 games for the Lady Raiders this year, leading the team with over 12 points a game.

ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO REPORTS OF LEWD ACTS IN SIKESTON

Officials in Sikeston say an arrest has been made in connection to reports of lewd acts in the city.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, they have received recent reports of a male engaged in lewd sexual acts in public. Officials say that it appears this male would seek out isolated female victims in public retail sales locations.

An arrest has been made following an investigation by the Criminal Investigations Unit. The name of the male was not released.

Detectives are asking for any unidentified victims or witnesses of similar described events to contact Detective Matt Cotner at 573-475-3787 or the anonymous tip line at 573-475-3774 to make a formal police report.

PUBLIC HEARING SET FOR THIS WEEK TO DISCUSS GRANT IN RIPLEY COUNTY

Ripley County will host a public hearing today to discuss a Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery program application.

The public hearing is scheduled for 8:30 a.m., at the County Courthouse in Doniphan.

The County, in conjunction with the City of Doniphan, is proposing to provide down payment assistance of 25 percent for future owners of single-family housing units located within the 63935 zip code.

Approximately 20 residents will benefit from the project, which is estimated to cost approximately $875,000. The County proposes to apply for approximately $883,750 in CDBG funding.

For more information on the proposed project, contact Ripley County Clerk Michael Williams at 573-996-3215.

INTERSTATE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN THE MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

Northbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 16-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform concrete replacements. 

The section of roadway is located from mile marker 0.6 to mile marker 6.6 near Steele.

Weather permitting, the work will take place today and tomorrow from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day.

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

THOUSANDS OF ECLIPSE VIEWERS FLOCK TO POPLAR BLUFF

Residents from across the United States as well as around the world descended on Poplar Bluff Monday to view the eclipse.

A total solar eclipse was observed in Poplar Bluff beginning at 1:56 pm. It was the first total solar eclipse in the country since 2017.

Poplar Bluff City Manager Matt Winters tells KWOC News that there were visitors in Poplar Bluff from more than 35 states and more than half a dozen foreign countries.

He added that he is extremely thankful for the city staff who stepped up and managed the different concerns they had going into the day and is excited that they had the opportunity to show off Poplar Bluff.

It will be a much longer wait until the next total solar eclipse occurs in the country, as the Planetary Society says the next total solar eclipse will not occur until 2044 and that path of totality will only hit three states, Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

ONE INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

A Cape Girardeau woman was badly injured in a single vehicle crash on Sunday in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 81 year old Rose Weaver was driving on US Highway 60 when her vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway, struck a rock bluff, and overturned.

Weaver suffered serious injuries in the crash and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

OVER 3,000 BIRDS HARVESTED DURING YOUTH WEEKEND OF MISSOURI TURKEY SEASON

Over 3,000 turkeys were taken during the recent youth weekend.

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation shows that young turkey hunters in Missouri harvested 3,721 birds on April 6th and 7th.

This was an increase from last year when young hunters checked 2,550 birds during the 2023 spring youth weekend.

The regular spring turkey season runs from April 15th through May 5th.

MAN FACING CHARGE AFTER BICYCLIST FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A HIT AND RUN NEAR CLARKTON

A bicyclist was flown from the scene of a hit and run Sunday morning in New Madrid County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 50 year old Waymon Burnett, of Gideon, was hit by a vehicle while cycling on Highway 162, one mile east of Clarkton.

The vehicle then fled the scene. The incident occurred shortly after 2 am Sunday morning.

Burnett was seriously injured in the collision and flown to a Memphis hospital.

Later on Sunday, a trooper arrested 29 year old Sergio Arojna, of Gideon, in connection to the incident.

Arojna is facing a felony charge of leaving the scene of a crash.

OVER A WEEK LONG IMPROVEMENT PROJECT TO CAUSE DELAYS ON US HIGHWAY 60

Eastbound Route 60 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction beginning this week as contractor crews perform guardrail improvements.

The section of roadway being reduced is located east of Route WW near Dudley.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, through Tuesday, April 16th.

CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR ROAD PROJECTS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Contracts have been awarded for upcoming road projects in Southeast Missouri.

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission awarded contracts for Southeast District projects during its regular meeting last week.

A 4.3 million dollar contract was awarded to Robertson Contractors for bridge improvements in multiple locations.

The bridges are located over the St. Francois River on Route U in Butler County, as well as multiple drainage and lateral ditches in Dunklin County.

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

Monday, April 8, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF GETS READY FOR SOLAR ECLIPSE

After over a year of preparation, the eclipse is almost here.

A solar eclipse will begin in the Poplar Bluff area today at 12:39 pm, 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 LOCATIONS SET UP TO ALLOW FOR VIEWING OF THE ECLIPSE

Numerous locations have been set up in the Poplar Bluff area to allow for easy viewing of the Solar Eclipse today.

In addition to the main viewing location at the Poplar Bluff High School Football Field, visitors can also see the eclipse at Ray Clinton Park, the Poplar Bluff Airport, Wiseman Park, Three Rivers College, the Black River Coliseum Parking Lot, Wappapello Lake Visitors Center, Mansion Mall, and Valley Plaza.

Numerous other businesses and churches have also made their parking lots open for eclipse viewers.

To avoid the heaviest traffic when traveling for the event, you should plan to leave early and remain at your viewing location for a time after the eclipse.

Also remember to make sure your vehicle is in good condition and has a full tank of gas. Also bring along water and snacks in your vehicle to your viewing location.

MOTORISTS URGED TO DRIVE SAFE AHEAD OF THE ECLIPSE

Southeast Missouri is expecting an influx of visitors today 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.

DEXTER POLICE OFFICER TERMINATED FOLLOWING INVESTIGATION INTO K9 OFFICER’S DEATH

A Dexter Police officer was fired following an investigation into the death of a K9 officer that he was the handler of.

On April 1st, the Dexter Board of Alderman voted to terminate the employment of Derrick Durall, who had been the K9 handler for the Dexter Police Department since December 2020.

Durall was serving in that capacity on February 18, 2024, when his K9 partner, Apollo, was discovered deceased in his kennel.

In a statement released on Friday, Dexter Police Chief Hank Trout says that an internal investigation discovered that Durall had violated department policies and was responsible for the death of Apollo and the neglect of retired K9 Knox.

Trout says that he recommended to the City Administrator and the Mayor that Durall’s employment with the Dexter Police Department and the City of Dexter be terminated.

Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Sawyer Smith tells KWOC News that criminal charges were filed Thursday against Durall for two counts of felony animal abuse and two counts of misdemeanor animal neglect.

MAN CHARGED FOR ALLEGEDLY ASSAULTING NURSING HOME RESIDENT

Charges have been filed in connection to an assault at a nursing home in Dunklin County.

According to a Probable Cause Affidavit, 32 year old Joseph Rogers, of Kennett, is alleged to have severely beaten a special needs person at the Senath Care Facility/Nursing Home on February 4th.

Rogers was a staff member at the time of the incident.

Four additional staff members were required to subdue Rogers and stop the attack.

The victim was taken to an area medical facility for treatment.

Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney Nicholas Jain tells KWOC News that Rogers has been charged with 1st degree assault. His bond was set at $75,000.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.