Friday, May 17, 2024

PLANE MAKES EMERGENCY LANDING IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS FIELD

A plane had to make an emergency landing Thursday morning in a Northeast Arkansas field.

According to Greene County Sheriff Brad Snyder, deputies responded to the scene of a landing west of Highway 168 North near Highway 412. Preliminary reports indicate that a small passenger plane experienced an engine failure, which forced the landing.

The pilot was the only person onboard, and no injuries were reported.

Snyder says that the FAA has been notified regarding the incident.

TRC COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY SCHEDULED FOR 6 PM TONIGHT

The 56th Annual Three Rivers College Commencement ceremony is scheduled for tonight in Poplar Bluff.

The event will begin at 6 pm at the Libla Family Sports Complex.

The Commencement Address will be provided by Dr. Sonya DiCiro, the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient.

The ceremony will be live streamed on the Three Rivers College Youtube page.

EARTHQUAKE SHAKES SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

An earthquake shook parts of Southeast Missouri early Thursday morning.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 3.8 quake was recorded at 3:19 am Thursday morning.

The earthquake was located near the Mississippi River, 4.3 miles south of Ridgely, Tennessee.

Officials say they received reports of people feeling the quake throughout Southeast Missouri, including in Poplar Bluff, Dudley, and Cape Girardeau.

CHRISTIAN COMEDY SHOW SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF

The Historic Wheatley School in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a Christian Comedy show this weekend.

The show has been scheduled for 6 pm on Saturday at the school, located at 921 Garfield Street.

Tickets are $20, with proceeds going to help with the preservation of Wheatley School. Dinner will also be served.

For more information, contact Robert Smith at 573-872-0550.

MODOT CREWS TO BE WORKING TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

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

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route NN to the end of state maintenance.

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

GUARDRAIL REPAIRS SCHEDULED TO BEGIN TODAY ON INTERSTATE 55 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Southbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 16-foot width restriction beginning today as contractor crews perform guardrail repairs.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from mile marker 58 to mile marker 60 near Matthews.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Monday, May 27th from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Thursday, May 16, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION SET FOR TONIGHT

The Poplar Bluff High School Class of 2024 will be receiving their diplomas today.

The PBHS Graduation Ceremony will be held tonight beginning at 7 pm at the Black River Coliseum. Doors will open at 6 pm and only people with tickets will be admitted.

Officials say that no admittance will be permitted after 7 pm.

For those who cannot attend, a live stream of the graduation ceremony will be available on the Mules Media youtube page.

TWO ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY IN CONNECTION TO NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION

Two people have been taken into custody in connection to a drug investigation in Stoddard County.

Stoddard County Sheriff Carl Hefner tells KWOC News that on Tuesday deputies assigned to the SEMO Drug Task Force were conducting an undercover narcotics investigation when they received information that 34 year old Milton Taylor Jr., of Poplar Bluff, was on his way to the Dexter area to sell fentanyl.

Taylor was located near a grocery store in Dexter along with a passenger in his vehicle, later identified as 19 year old Liberty Lambert, of Naylor.

The subjects were found to be in possession of several items of drug paraphernalia and approximately 34 capsules. The white powdery substance contained in the capsules was field tested and produced positive results for the presence of fentanyl.

Both subjects were arrested on charges of trafficking drugs in the first degree and possession of an imitation controlled substance.

They are being held in the Stoddard County Jail on no bond warrants.

TWO EDUCATORS AT THREE RIVERS COLLEGE HONORED FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING

Two educators at Three Rivers College are being recognized for their efforts over the past year.

Corey Reynolds, the Behavioral Health Support Program Coordinator, has been selected by Three Rivers College as the 2023-24 recipient of the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Reynolds leads the Behavioral Support Program at Three Rivers, which offers trauma-informed training in the areas of substance use, prevention, and mental health.

Emily Thurman, Adjunct Instructor of English, was named by the College as its Adjunct of the Year Award for Excellence in Teaching.

FEED AND SEED EVENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY

New Day Ministry in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a feed and seed event today.

The event is from 3 to 5 pm and is first come, first serve, with packs limited to one per household.

New Day Ministry is located at 703 Franklin Street in Poplar Bluff. For more information, call 573-718-4578.

BUSINESS ROUTE 67 IN POPLAR BLUFF TO BE REDUCED OVER THE SUMMER

Business Route 67 in Butler County will be reduced this summer as contractor crews remove and replace islands at various intersections.

As work is underway, eastbound and westbound Business Route 67 will be reduced to one lane in each direction in the vicinity of the intersection.

The section of roadway is located between Three Rivers Boulevard and Route W in Poplar Bluff.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday, August 30.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

The section of roadway being closed is located from Route 114 to Route A near Grayridge.

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

Wednesday, May 15, 2024

MISSOURI POLICE OFFICERS TO CRACKDOWN ON RESIDENTS NOT WEARING THEIR SEAT BELT 

A new seat belt enforcement campaign is set to begin next week in Missouri. 

Statewide law enforcement will be participating in a high visibility click it or ticket seat belt mobilization from May 20th through June 2nd to help increase seat belt use among residents and reduce highway fatalities. 

According to officials, more than 6 out of l0 people killed in 2023 Missouri traffic crashes were unbuckled. Even with all the advancements in automobile safety, a seat belt remains a person's single greatest defense in the event of a crash.

ROAD WORK SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN BUTLER AND STODDARD COUNTIES 

Various sections of Route 60 in Stoddard and Butler Counties will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.  

Work will take place between Route 114 near Grayridge and Route DD near Fisk. Drivers should anticipate short, intermittent lane reductions in the vicinity of the bridge repairs.   

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

POPLAR BLUFF MULES BASEBALL TEAM TO BEGIN DISTRICT TOURNAMENT TODAY

The Poplar Bluff Mules baseball team is traveling to Imperial today for their opening game in the district tournament. 

The six seed Poplar Bluff will be taking on three seed Seckman at 4:00 pm this afternoon in the quarterfinals of the Class 6, District 1 tournament. 

Today’s Talk KWOC will have the game for you live on radio, with a video stream also available at MSHSAA.tv. Both will feature the voice of the Poplar Bluff Mules, Frankie Casteel.  

If the Mules get the win today, they will travel to Lindbergh on Thursday to face the winner of the Oakville and Mehlville quarterfinal matchup.

POPLAR BLUFF’S PARKER HICKS EARNS PRESTIGIOUS 2024 MISSOURI CITIZENSHIP AWARD 

Poplar Bluff High School Senior Parker Hicks, was selected among 15 students across the state, to receive the award for Outstanding Achievement in Citizenship, the first time a student has earned the honor locally in seven years. 

Parker is involved with numerous student organizations, including holding leadership positions with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the Honor Society, and Mule Barn pep club. 

He volunteers for the Bread Shed food pantry, Salvation Army’s red kettle campaign, highway clean-up committee through the Interact Club, and as an ambassador for incoming freshmen. 

Officials with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education say students are chosen for the State Board of Education’s Missouri Citizenship Award, based on academic achievement in civics and government courses, performance in civics and government-related extracurricular activities, and exemplary community service. 

Outstanding Achievement in Citizenship has been awarded since the 1990/91 school year as a provision under Senate Bill 198, which pertains to teaching federal and state constitutions and U.S. history in public and private schools.

BRIDGE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON US HIGHWAY 62 

U.S. 62 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform repairs on the St. Francis River bridge. 

The bridge is located at the state line from Dunklin County to Clay County. 

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

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

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

TWO ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two people have been arrested in connection to a weekend shooting in Butler County.

According to Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs, on Sunday deputies were dispatched to County Road 484 in Harviell for an assault report.

Deputies made contact with the victim on the way to the call. The victim had a laceration to his head and multiple injuries to his arms, one of which was a gunshot wound to his wrist.

The victim was flown to Memphis for treatment of his injuries.

An investigation resulted in the arrests of two brothers, both of Harviell, 45 year old Richard Clark and 36 year old Robert Clark, on charges of assault 2nd degree and armed criminal action.

Both are being held in the Butler County Justice Center and the case remains under investigation.

INVESTIGATION ONGOING IN FATAL SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SHOOTING

An investigation is ongoing into a fatal weekend shooting in Southeast Missouri.

Officials with the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department tell KWOC News that at approximately 4 pm on Sunday, deputies responded to a call from a homeowner stating he had shot someone burglarizing his residence.

At the scene on Highway 62, near Lilbourn, deputies located a deceased female with a single gunshot wound.

Officials say that an autopsy is scheduled for 11 am on Wednesday and the names of the subjects involved are being withheld while the investigation is ongoing.

CAMPGROUNDS AT PEOPLES CREEK CAMPGROUND AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

Selected campgrounds at Wappapello Lake have been closed due to high water levels.

According to the Wappapello Lake US Army Corp of Engineers, campsites have been closed until further notice at People’s Creek Campground.

The higher water level also caused the closure of sites 26 to 38 as well as all beaches.

Officials say the lake level crested at 366.08 on Saturday and they are working to get some of the sites and beaches open by this weekend.

BOIL WATER ORDER ISSUED FOR SOME BUTLER COUNTY RESIDENTS

Some residents in Butler County are being advised to boil their water.

Butler County Public Water Supply District #2 says that a Boil Water order is in effect for all residents and businesses south of County Road 220

The order was ordered shortly after 10 am on Monday.

RICHLAND ELEMENTARY ONE OF EIGHT IN MISSOURI NAMED AS GOLD STAR SCHOOL

An elementary school in Southeast Missouri was one of eight schools across the state to be named as a Gold Star School.

According to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Richland Elementary School was chosen for the program, which recognizes schools that perform at high academic levels or that perform at high levels while serving a significant proportion of disadvantaged students.

The Missouri Gold Star Schools program uses the same criteria for nomination as the National Blue Ribbon Schools program.

WARRANT ISSUED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS RAPE INVESTIGATION

A warrant has been issued for a Northeast Arkansas man as a part of a rape investigation.

According to Captain Jason Elms with the Paragould Police Department, 43 year old William Derby is facing felony charges of rape and sexual assault in the second degree.

The Arkansas Child Abuse Hotline received a report in December of sexual abuse involving an underage female.

The victim named Derby as her offender. During a recent interview, Derby reportedly made incriminating statements.

He was arrested on Friday and held without bond.

Monday, May 13, 2024

THIS WEEK IS NATIONAL POLICE WEEK 

Police officers are in the spotlight this week for National Police Week. 

National Police Week is dedicated to remembering and honoring those who gave their lives in the line of duty. 

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. 

According to Ozark National Scenic Riverways, the names of newly fallen officers are engraved on a memorial site every year in Washington DC. On this list, there are countless names from all branches of federal, state, and local law enforcement: over 23,700 and growing. 

A Candlelight Vigil was held over the weekend in honor of those who lost their lives and in support of their surviving friends and family.

OVER 47,000 BIRDS HARVESTED DURING SPRING TURKEY SEASON 

Missouri hunters harvested over 47,000 birds during turkey season. 

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation shows turkey hunters checked 47,121 birds during Missouri’s 2024 regular spring turkey season, which ran from April 17th through May 7th. 

Young turkey hunters also harvested 3,721 turkeys over the youth weekend at the beginning of April, bringing the overall 2024 spring turkey harvest to 50,842 – the highest harvest total since 2016.

Officials say that last year, young turkey hunters harvested 2,566 turkeys over the spring youth season and hunters harvested 44,536 during the regular spring season for a 2023 spring season total harvest of 47,102.

MULTI-MONTH ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY ON BUSINESS 60 IN BUTLER COUNTY 

Business Route 60 in Butler County will be reduced beginning today as contractor crews remove and replace islands at various intersections. 

As work is underway, eastbound and westbound Business Route 60 will be reduced to one lane in each direction in the vicinity of the intersection. 

The work zones will be located between Route NN and Route B in Poplar Bluff.  

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, June 28th from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 

MAY IS MOTORCYCLE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH 

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to make the public aware that May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. 

Preliminary 2023 statistics indicate there were 2,459 crashes involving motorcycles. In these crashes, 2,141 people were injured and 175 people were killed. 

Olson says that it's important for motorcyclists to take an active role in their wellbeing, including dressing for safety. Wear a helmet and eye protection. Wear bright clothing. Wear thick or leather clothing for protection. 

Motorcycle riders are also encouraged to think safety while riding. Give yourself space to react to other motorists’ actions. Use lane positioning to increase visibility. Watch for turning vehicles. Signal your next action in advance. Pretend you’re invisible and drive defensively.

NEXT WEEK IS NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK 

Next week is National Safe Boating week and Missouri officials are stressing the importance of safety while on the waterways. 

Colonel Eric Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that National Safe Boating week is purposefully scheduled just prior to Memorial Day weekend, which many people consider the kickoff to the boating season. 

Boaters are encouraged to arrange for a thorough inspection of your boat prior to taking it out on the water. 

The Patrol’s marine operations troopers are available to inspect the required equipment on your boat, at your request, to make sure you’re in compliance with state law. 

For more information contact your local Highway Patrol Troop Headquarters.

ISLAND REPLACEMENT PROJECT TO START TODAY ON US ROUTE 60 IN BUTLER AND STODDARD COUNTIES

U.S. Route 60 in Butler and Stoddard Counties will be reduced beginning today as contractor crews remove and replace islands at various intersections. 

According to officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation, as work is underway, eastbound and westbound Route 60 will be reduced to one lane in each direction in the vicinity of the intersections. 

The islands are located between County Road 565 in Butler County and County Road 717 in Stoddard County. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday, August 16.

Friday, May 10, 2024

AREA MAN ARRESTED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY FOR DELIVERY OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE 

Authorities in New Madrid County have arrested an area man on multiple drug related charges. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 40 year old Darren Williams was taken into custody Wednesday evening on charges of delivery of a controlled substance - methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

Williams is also facing charges of failure to register a motor vehicle, displaying the plates of another, and no seatbelt. 

Following the arrest, he was held in the New Madrid County Jail.

PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD TODAY IN CARTER COUNTY TO DISCUSS PROPOSED ROAD PROJECT 

A public hearing has been scheduled for today concerning a proposed road project.  

Carter County will hold a public hearing at 8:45 a.m. this morning at the Carter County Courthouse to discuss the County’s submission of an application for a Delta Regional Authority program. 

The county’s proposed project consists of paving County Road 330 east of Highway FF. Approximately 60 residences will benefit from the project, which is estimated to cost approximately $300,000. Officials say the County may provide approximately $30,000 of in-kind or cash match. 

For more information on the proposed project, contact County Clerk Debi Reynolds at 573-323-4527.

10TH ANNUAL RIDE FOR A CURE TO BE HELD IN AUGUST 

The 10th Annual Ride for a Cure Dice Run in memory of Larry Maronay has been scheduled for August. 

Registration for the event will begin at 10 am on August 24th at the Dexter Elks Lodge, with the ride beginning at 11 am. The entry fee is $20 per bike and $10 for an additional rider with a meal included at the end of the ride. 

All proceeds will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

For more information, call Brian Jones at 573-421-1771.

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL OFFICIALS REMIND PARENTS TO GET THEIR STUDENTS VACCINATED FOR NEXT SCHOOL YEAR 

The Poplar Bluff school year is almost at its end, but school officials are preparing for next year. 

A recent letter was released to parents reminding them to make sure that their children are properly immunized to go to school. 

Children attending school must be immunized against tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, hepatitis B, and meningitis. 

Parents of incoming 12th graders are also reminded that two doses of the Meningococcal vaccine are required, unless the first dose was administered to a student who was 16 years of age or older, in which case only one dose is required. 

Incoming 12th graders must provide documentation verifying they received the vaccine to the school nurse before school starts in the fall. Parents are being urged to make these appointments now and not wait until right before the school year begins. 

Incoming 12th graders are also recommended to receive two doses of the HPV vaccine and one dose of the Meningococcal B vaccine. 

AREA LETTER CARRIERS TO COLLECT FOOD FOR LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES 

Area letter carriers will be collecting food for local food pantries this weekend. 

Saturday, May 11th will mark the 32nd anniversary of the National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp out Hunger food drive. 

On Saturday, letter carriers from across the area will be collecting non-perishable food donations. Residents just need to leave a non-perishable food donation in a bag by your mailbox on the day of the food drive.

The donations will go directly to local food pantries.

FREE EYE EXAMS TO BE OFFERED THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF 

The Missouri Lions Club will be doing free eye exams this weekend in Poplar Bluff. 

The event will be from 9 am to 3 pm on Saturday at the Poplar Bluff Library Ridge Branch on Kanell Boulevard. 

You can book an appointment by going to poplarbluff.org/lions or by calling 573-840-0579.

Thursday, May 9, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION TO BE HELD NEXT THURSDAY 

The Poplar Bluff High School Class of 2024 will be receiving their diplomas one week from today. 

The PBHS Graduation Ceremony will be held Thursday May 16, at 7 pm at the Black River Coliseum. Doors will open at 6 pm and only people with tickets will be admitted. 

Officials say that no admittance will be permitted after 7 pm. 

For those who cannot attend, a live stream of the graduation ceremony will be available on the Mules Media youtube 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 May 11th.

ISLAND REPLACEMENT PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY NEAR NEELYVILLE

Route 142 in Butler County will be reduced beginning today as contractor crews remove and replace islands at various intersections. 

As work is underway, eastbound and westbound Route 142 will be reduced to one lane in each direction in the vicinity of the intersections. 

The work zone is located near the intersection of Route 142 and Route 67 near Neelyville.  

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday, May 17th. 

RESIDENTS ASKED TO REPORT SIGHTINGS OF BLACK VULTURES 

The Missouri Department of Conservation is partnering with the U.S. Department of Agriculture on a multi-year study to better mediate conflicts with black vultures. 

Landowners, cattle ranchers, birdwatchers, and others may contribute to the study by reporting sightings of black vultures marked with tags on their wings. 

Black vultures play an important role in nature by eating carrion, or dead animals. Vultures have acids in their stomachs that metabolize diseases, such as rabies, and remove them from the environment. However, their aggressive nature can cause issues for cattle ranchers and other livestock producers. 

In an effort to track black vultures and test management tools, 89 black vultures near the Missouri-Arkansas border were captured this spring and marked with a white tag on their right wing. 

All sightings of tagged black vultures, either observed alive or taken by a landowner with the appropriate permit, should be reported to the United States Geological Survey’s Bird Banding Lab online at ReportBand.gov.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD PROJECT UNDERWAY 

Route T in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane for the remainder of this month as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.  

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route 61 to County Road 322 near Portageville. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday, May 31.

LADY MULES VOLLEYBALL TEAM TO HOST YOUTH CAMP 

The Mules of today are taking up the chance to teach the Mules of tomorrow. 

The Lady Mules Volleyball team is hosting a Youth Volleyball Camp for 3rd through 8th grades at the PBHS Gymnasium from May 20th through the 22nd. 

Tomorrow is the deadline to register and the cost is $30. 

More information, including a registration form, is available at pbparks.recdesk.com.

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

INCOMING WEATHER SYSTEM BRINGS HIGHER CHANCES OF SEVERE WEATHER TODAY 

A weather system that is crossing Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas will give us higher chances of severe weather today. 

Station Meteorologist Dan Holiday tells KWOC News what weather officials are expecting for today. 

Dan Holiday 

The Storm Prediction Center has upgraded our entire listening area in a moderate risk of severe weather that is a level 4 out of 5, something we don’t see very often. We know this is the time of year when severe weather occurs and what we have here in this situation is a low pressure system over Missouri, a warm front extending to our north, and a dry line approaching from the west, a lot of moisture coming in from the Gulf of Mexico. Some morning storms certainly will be ongoing then will likely get a break for a while with afternoon and evening storms, any of which could produce some widespread damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes. 

In the event that a warning is issued, you will hear it on Today’s Talk KWOC.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED ON MULTIPLE DATES THIS MONTH 

Missouri state officials are reminding motorists that driver examinations will not be available on select days this month.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed today in observance of Harry Truman’s birthday. 

Driver Examination Stations will also be closed on Monday, May 27th, for Memorial Day. 

MINNESOTA WOMAN FACING METH RELATED CHARGE 

A Minnesota woman is facing a meth charge following her arrest this week. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 51 year old Rebecca Bellig was taken into custody Monday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine. 

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

MAN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A WRECK NEAR QULIN 

A Qulin man was flown from the scene of a single vehicle wreck Monday evening near Qulin. 

According to authorities, 44 year old Roger Tompkins, was driving on Highway 51, 5 miles south of Qulin, when his vehicle traveled off the left side of the road and overturned. The wreck occurred shortly before 8 pm. 

The driver suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Jonesboro hospital.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT TO CAUSE DELAYS ON ROUTE 164 

Route 164 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane for the rest of this month as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.  

The work zone is located from Interstate 55 to Route D. 

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, May 31 from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE WEATHER TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

With thunderstorms possible today, weather officials are warning of a risk of severe storms. 

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, most of Southeast Missouri is under a slight risk for severe thunderstorms from this afternoon into the evening hours. 

Any of the storms that become severe may contain large hail and damaging winds, although an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out. 

An even better chance of severe weather for the entire area will arrive on Wednesday. All modes of severe weather are possible.

MAN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A WRECK NEAR POPLAR BLUFF 

A Kansas man was flown from the scene of a single vehicle wreck Sunday evening near Poplar Bluff. 

According to authorities, 53 year old Karl Montgomery, from Sedgwick Kansas, driving on Route W, 5 miles north of Poplar Bluff, when his vehicle failed to negotiate a turn and overturned. The wreck occurred shortly before 7 pm. 

The driver suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO FORCE CLOSURE OF WAYNE COUNTY ROAD

Route BB in Wayne 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 Marler Road and County Road 531 near Greenville. 

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

CHIEF OF POLICE IN DEXTER WARNS OF PHONE SCAMS 

The Dexter Chief of Police is warning area residents to be cautious about multiple phone scams that have been reported. 

Dexter Police Chief Hank Trout tells KWOC News that citizens should not to respond to calls in which the caller claims to be with the Dexter Police Department, and states they have an active arrest warrant and if they did not go and purchase gift cards at a local business and send the card and pin numbers, that officers would come to their residence and arrest them. In some cases the caller I.D. shows up as the Dexter Police Department. 

Chief Trout says that Missouri law enforcement will never call citizens demanding payment for anything. The best course of action is these situations is to simply hang up.

MISSOURI HUNTERS CAN APPLY FOR ELK AND BEAR PERMITS THIS MONTH 

Missouri hunters are able to apply for bull elk and bear permits this month. 

The Missouri Department of Conservation will offer five permits to hunt bull elk in Missouri this fall with at least one permit designated for qualifying landowners that own property in Carter, Reynolds, or Shannon counties and the remaining permits being for qualifying Missouri residents. 

MDC has designated the elk archery portion to run from October 19th through October 27th and the elk firearms portion to run from December 14th through December 22nd. 

The MDC will also offer 400 permits for the taking of a maximum of 40 black bears during the 2024 Missouri black-bear hunting season this fall, from October 21st through October 30th. 

Only Missouri residents who will be at least 11 years old by the first day of the hunt for which they are applying are eligible to apply. The application period will be open through May 31st and all permits will be assigned through a random drawing. 

There are multiple ways to apply for each permit including by calling 1-800-392-4115 or by going online to mdc.mo.gov/buypermits.

PLANTS GROWN BY PBHS STUDENTS AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE 

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

The PBHS FFA is hosting its annual spring plant sale from 7:15 a.m. through 4 p.m. on school days, at the High School. 

Pricing includes bedding plants or flowers in four-inch pots for $4, Proven Winner plants for $5, and hanging baskets for $15. 

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

Monday, May 6, 2024

VETERANS NEEDED FOR 14TH ANNUAL HONOR TOUR

Up to 30 area veterans will depart from Southeast Missouri en route to Washington D.C. this Fall.

The 14th Annual Veterans Honor Tour will depart from Poplar Bluff on September 27th and give local veterans the opportunity to see national monuments and museums in Washington D.C. during the three day tour, at no cost to the veterans.

Any veterans who want to participate in this year’s tour are asked to contact Larry Kimbrow at 573-776-3496. Donors are also needed to help pay for the event.

PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD TODAY IN DONIPHAN TO DISCUSS RENTAL HOUSING PROJECT

A public hearing has been scheduled for today concerning a proposed rental housing project.

The City of Doniphan will hold a public hearing at 5 p.m. at City Hall to discuss the city's submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant.

The city is proposing to facilitate the construction of eight two-bedroom multi-family rental housing units. The proposed construction will be located at the corner of Jackson and Borth Streets.

The total project cost is estimated at $2.3 million dollars. Private Party funds contributed to the project total approximately $100,000 and an estimated $2.2 million dollars in grant funds are needed to make up the balance. The proposal does not include any cash from the city.

For more information, contact the Doniphan City Clerk at 573-996-2623.

POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL TURNS OLD GREENHOUSE INTO OUTDOOR CLASSROOM

Poplar Bluff Middle School has opened a new multi-purpose outdoor classroom using vacated facilities east of the Victory Lane campus.

School officials say that the school-wide effort to revamp the former High School greenhouse and establish an outdoor classroom behind the cafeteria has been in the works since the beginning of the academic year.

The outdoor classroom portion of the project is located under a canopy, financed by the Parent Teacher Organization. In addition to the special seating secured through Title 1 funding, Middle School Principal Dr. Josh Teeter hopes to acquire more equipment this summer including tables and dry-erase boards.

The concrete slab on which the carport structure sits was poured by the Maintenance Department prior to winter.

The University of Missouri Extension also donated raised garden beds, topsoil, mulch, handheld tools and soon rain barrels for the restoration as part of its community garden project expansion.

BACON PARK TO HOST JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

Bacon Park in Poplar Bluff has been chosen as the location for the 2024 Juneteenth celebration.

The event will begin at 10 am on Saturday, June 15th.

There will be multiple events and vendors as a part of this year’s Juneteenth celebration. For more information, or to apply to be a vendor, contact Harvey Heard at 573-712-0719.

MAY IS BICYCLE SAFETY MONTH

May is Bicycle Safety Month and officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol are encouraging motorists and bicyclists to stay alert and be courteous.

Preliminary statistics for 2023 indicate eight people were killed and 438 injured in 522 traffic crashes involving a bicycle.

Although not required by state law, officials say that wearing a bicycle helmet while riding is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself. Be sure your helmet is the proper size and adjust the straps for a snug fit.

Cyclists are asked to know the law regarding operating a bicycle and be a safe rider.

CONCRETE REPLACEMENT PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN CARTER COUNTY

Eastbound Route 60 in Carter County will be reduced to one lane with an 18-foot width restriction this month as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform concrete replacement. 

This section of roadway is located from Parsons Drive to Route J, near Van Buren.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, May 24th, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

Wednesday, May 1, 2024

MULES GOLF TEAM SETS NEW STATE RECORD WHILE WINNING SEMO CONFERENCE TOURNAMENT

A state record has fallen as the Poplar Bluff Mules Golf team won the SEMO Conference Tournament.

The team shot a combined 283 at Fox Haven Country Club in Sikeston, beating the second place Jackson Indians by 11 strokes.

The Mules combined score broke the state record for a Team Low 18-Hole Round on a Par-71 Course. The previous record was 285, which was set by Hickman in 2004.

JASON DAVIS NAMED POPLAR BLUFF R-1 BUS DRIVER OF THE YEAR

Jason Davis has been named as the Poplar Bluff R-1 Bus Driver of the year.

The Poplar Bluff R-I Transportation Department recognized its driver of the year during a special luncheon provided for bus drivers to coincide with National School Bus Driver Appreciation Day.

Davis has been a bus driver since 2017 and is also a certified trainer and bus inspector, on top of running daily routes for the High School and Kindergarten Center.

In addition, Davis was the first of a pair in the department during the program’s inaugural year in 2022 to receive the “driver to driver” award, a traveling trophy designated for bus drivers that go “above and beyond.”

School administrators also paid respect to first-year bus driver John West, a sergeant of seven years with the Missouri National Guard, who is taking a leave of absence for a deployment overseas.

TWO ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO WEAPON INVESTIGATION IN POPLAR BLUFF

Two Poplar Bluff residents have been taken into custody in connection to a weapon investigation.

Police officials tell KWOC News that 24 year old Cody Grogan and 19 year old Kobe Grogan were arrested Monday morning during an unlawful use of a weapon investigation on Roxie Drive.

Both were booked on charges of robbery first degree and unlawful use of a weapon, while Cody Grogan is facing additional charges of assault second degree and armed criminal action.

Both were lodged in the Butler County Jail.

AREA YOUTH BANDS TO ROCK THE HEARTLAND THIS WEEKEND

Area youth bands will be performing this weekend in Wayne County.

Rock the Heartland is a music competition scheduled to begin at 8 am on May 4th at the Greenville park.

Greenville High School Music Director Kristen Englehart tells KWOC News there will be a grand prize of $500 and acts of all music genres were invited to apply.

Any extra proceeds from the event will go to the Greenville Music Department and the town of Greenville.

For more information, go to the Greenville Music and Drama Department group on Facebook.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE UPCOMING FOR POPLAR BLUFF SPRING TENNIS LEAGUE

The deadline is coming up to register for the 2024 Poplar Bluff Spring Tennis League.

According to Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation, the final day to register is May 3rd. League play will begin on May 20th, with matches played at Poplar Bluff Middle School and Hillcrest Park.

The cost to register is $40, and more information is available at PBParks.RecDesk.com.

MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU 5K TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND

Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation has scheduled a 5K race for this weekend.

The May the 4th Be With You 5Kwill start at 10 am on Saturday at Hendrickson Park. Runners are asked to wear their favorite Star Wars gear.

The cost to register is $10 and check-ins will begin at 9:30 am.

For more information, call 573-686-8645.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO FORCE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD

Route 153 in New Madrid County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The work zone is located between Route B and County Road 248 near Tallapoosa.

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

SURFACE IMPROVEMENTS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON HIGHWAY 60

Missouri Department of Transportation crews will be making driving surface improvements beginning today on US Highway 60 in Carter and Howell Counties.

Officials say that flaggers and a pilot car will be in place to guide traffic between Route J and Route 17 near Winona.

Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day.

Tuesday, April 30, 2024

TEENAGER KILLED IN TWO VEHICLE CRASH

A teenager has died following a weekend crash on US Highway 67.

Officials with the Arkansas State Police tell KWOC News that 18 year old Tyler White was in a vehicle traveling southbound on Highway 67 when the vehicle crossed the centerline and struck an oncoming vehicle head on.

The crash occurred at approximately 12:30 pm Saturday in rural Randolph County.

Officials say that White was pronounced dead following the crash.

A passenger in the second vehicle was injured and transported to a Jonesboro hospital.

FORMER STODDARD COUNTY PHARMACIST PLEADS GUILTY TO INVASION OF PRIVACY CHARGES

A former pharmacist in Stoddard County has pleaded guilty to recording his employees while they were in the bathroom.

Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Sawyer Smith tells KWOC News that 51 year old Bruce Dovin pled guilty on Monday to one felony count and three misdemeanor counts of invasion of privacy.

Sentencing has been scheduled for June 12th, where Dovin could receive a maximum sentence of four years in prison.

NAMES RELEASED OF SIX PEOPLE KILLED IN FATAL CRASH

Updating a story we have been following for you this month, authorities have released the names of six people killed in a Clay County crash.

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 on April 15th.

After the impact, both vehicles became fully engulfed in flames and six occupants of the suv were unable to get out of the vehicle.

The deceased have been identified as 65 year old Rekinna Alanso, 62 year old Santos Andon, 37 year old Sonter Andon, 36 year old Nisdy Inek, and 34 year old Jessica Inek, all of Paragould. The sixth person killed was a minor whose name was not released.

The driver of the tractor-trailer was injured and transported to a Memphis hospital.

PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD NEXT WEEK IN DONIPHAN TO DISCUSS RENTAL HOUSING PROJECT

A public hearing has been scheduled for next week concerning a proposed rental housing project.

The City of Doniphan will hold a public hearing at 5 p.m. on Monday, May 6th, at City Hall to discuss the city's submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant.

The city is proposing to facilitate the construction of eight two-bedroom multi-family rental housing units. The proposed construction will be located at the corner of Jackson Street and Borth Street.

The total project cost is estimated at $2.3 million dollars. Private Party funds contributed to the project total approximately $100,000 and an estimated $2.2 million dollars in grant funds are needed to make up the balance. The proposal does not include any cash from the city.

For more information, contact the Doniphan City Clerk at 573-996-2623.

CONCRETE REPLACEMENT UNDERWAY ON WESTBOUND ROUTE 60

Westbound Route 60 in Carter County will be reduced to one lane with an 18-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform concrete replacement. 

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route Y to County Road 163, near Van Buren.

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

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO FORCE CLOSURE OF STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TODAY

County Road 589 in Stoddard County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The closure will be located at the junction of U.S. Route 60 and County Road 589. Officials say that U.S. Route 60 will not be impacted during this work.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Monday, April 29, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF FOOTBALL PLAYER SELECTED FOR THE BURLSWORTH CHARACTER AWARD

A Poplar Bluff High School football player is being recognized for his character.

According to School Officials, Logan Davis was selected as the PBHS winner of the Burlsworth Character Award.

Davis is a senior who played on both the offensive and defensive lines.

This award honors the player who may or may not be a top performer, but who represents the ideals and values that Brandon Burlsworth had: to give 100 percent on the field and to stand as a moral example to his teammates.

MISSOURI DROUGHT ALERT EXTENDED UNTIL SEPTEMBER

The long term dry conditions affecting Missouri has prompted the governor to extend the ongoing drought alert.

On Friday, Governor Mike Parson issued Executive Order 24-05 extending Missouri’s drought alert until September 1st, to address issues outlined by the state’s Drought Assessment Committee.

Parson says that currently 11 Missouri counties are experiencing severe drought, 71 counties are experiencing moderate drought, and 86 counties are experiencing abnormally dry conditions.

Lack of precipitation and below normal streamflow over the past year have kept Missouri under a drought alert continuously since May 31, 2023. Prior to that, a drought alert was active from July 2022 to March 2023.

FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS SET FOR TONIGHT AT DONIPHAN HIGH SCHOOL

Doniphan High School will be hosting a celebration of their different art programs tonight.

The Festival of the Arts is scheduled to begin at 7 pm tonight at the Doniphan High School Gym. The festival will include an art show and performances by the DHS Choir, Band, and Drama departments.

Officials say that everyone is welcome to attend.

TWO INJURED IN CRASH NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

Two people were injured in a crash Friday night near Poplar Bluff.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred when a vehicle driven by 19 year old Adriana McIntyre, of Poplar Bluff, failed to yield to another vehicle and was hit in the side.

The driver of the second vehicle, 62 year old Roger Ellsworth, of Poplar Bluff, suffered serious injuries in the crash. McIntyre received minor injuries. Both were transported by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

MAN WANTED ON MURDER CHARGE ARRESTED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A man was taken into custody over the weekend on a murder warrant.

According to the Hayti Police Department, on Saturday, officers located 19 year old Rodney Hamilton-Jones, who was wanted on two felony warrants out of Mississippi County, Arkansas for murder 1st degree and engaging in a violent criminal group.

The subject attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended.

Officials say that Hamilton-Jones was transported to the Pemiscot County Justice Center where he is being held without bond. He is also facing an additional charge of felony fleeing.

PORTION OF ROUTE 142 TO BE CLOSED TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

A portion of Route 142 in Butler County will be closed today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can replace a culvert under the roadway.

The closure is located between County Roads 334 and 348 near Neelyville.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through 4:30 p.m.

Friday, April 26, 2024

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN DIES IN BOATING INCIDENT

A Northeast Arkansas man has died in connection to a boating incident this week.

Greene County Sheriff Brad Snyder tells KWOC News that shortly before 1:30 pm on Wednesday, Paragould Emergency Services received a 911 call regarding a male in distress after he had launched his boat from the boat ramp at Lake Frierson.

Snyder says that it appears that the boat began floating away after it was launched. In an effort to retrieve the boat, 60 year old Bryan Slayton, of rural Greene County, began swimming out to it.

When he reached the boat, Slayton began exhibiting distress and requesting assistance. Before anyone could reach him, Slayton disappeared under the water and never resurfaced.

Slayton’s body was recovered shortly after 3 pm and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

AREA LAW ENFORCEMENT TO HOST DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT

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

Multiple area law enforcement agencies will be participating in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 27th from 10 am to 2 pm.

You can find a drop off location in your area by going to DeaTakeBack.com.

NEELYVILLE JUNIOR BETA TO HOST CASINO NIGHT AND SILENT AUCTION

An area school organization will host an event this weekend to raise money for their trip to a national convention.

The Neelyville Junior Beta is hosting a Casino Night and Silent Auction from 6 to 9 pm on Saturday at the Moss Sports Complex.

All proceeds from the event are going to help the club attend the National Convention in Savannah, Georgia this June.

AREA LETTER CARRIERS TO COLLECT FOOD FOR LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES

Next month area letter carriers will be collecting food for local food pantries.

Saturday, May 11th will mark the 32nd anniversary of the National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger food drive.

On May 11th, letter carriers from across the area will be collecting non-perishable food donations. Residents just need to leave a non-perishable food donation in a bag by your mailbox on the day of the food drive.

The donations will go directly to local food pantries.

2024 SARAH JARBOE WHITE UCAN WALK SET FOR SATURDAY

The 2024 Sarah Jarboe White UCAN walk is coming up this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

According to the United Cancer Assistance Network, the annual three mile walk will be held on Saturday, beginning at 9:30 am at the Danny Bell Cancer Center.

Officials say that over $400,000 has been raised over the past 13 years of the event.

The money has gone to help cancer patients with transportation, utilities, groceries, medical expenses, housing, nutritional supplements, and many other necessities while they are going through chemotherapy and radiation and are unable to continue to work.

For more information, contact the United Cancer Assistance Network at 573-776-1892.

MDC CONSIDERING ADDING ANTLERLESS-ELK HUNTING SEASON

The Missouri Department of Conservation is considering expanding the elk hunting season after several years of successful antlered-elk hunting seasons.

Officials say they are considering adding a limited antlerless-elk hunting season for residents.

MDC reintroduced wild elk in portions of Carter, Reynolds, and Shannon counties in the Missouri Ozarks about a decade ago. According to MDC Elk and Deer Biologist Aaron Hildreth, those elk numbers continue to grow and may soon be able to allow the harvest of a small number of antlerless elk.

Officials are proposing that many aspects of antlerless-elk hunting mirror antlered-elk hunting, which has been occurring since 2020.

MDC is seeking input on hunting of antlerless-elk in Missouri. The organization is accepting public comments at mdc.mo.gov/AntlerlessElkComments through Sunday.

Thursday, April 25, 2024

DONIPHAN CHURCH CATCHES FIRE WEDNESDAY MORNING

Crews worked the scene of a fire Wednesday morning at a Doniphan area church.

Authorities were alerted of a fire at the United Methodist Church shortly after 4 am.

Officials say that no one was injured in the fire, however the building is being considered a total loss.

A cause for the fire is under investigation by the state fire marshal’s office.

DEXTER MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BICYCLE CRASH

A Dexter man was seriously injured in a bicycle crash.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 60 year old Robert Swasho was driving a motorized bicycle on Stoddard County Road 717 when the vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a ditch.

Following the wreck, Swasho was transported by ambulance to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

MISSOURI HUNTERS CAN APPLY FOR ELK AND BEAR PERMITS IN MAY

Missouri hunters will be able to apply for bull elk and bear permits in May.

The Missouri Department of Conservation will offer five permits to hunt bull elk in Missouri this fall with at least one permit designated for qualifying landowners that own property in Carter, Reynolds, or Shannon counties and the remaining permits being for qualifying Missouri residents.

MDC has designated the elk archery portion to run from October 19th through October 27th and the elk firearms portion to run from December 14th through December 22nd.

The MDC will also offer 400 permits for the taking of a maximum of 40 black bears during the 2024 Missouri black-bear hunting season this fall, from October 21st through October 30th.

Only Missouri residents who will be at least 11 years old by the first day of the hunt for which they are applying are eligible to apply. The application period will be from May 1st to May 31st and all permits will be assigned through a random drawing.

There are multiple ways to apply for each permit including by calling 1-800-392-4115 or by going online to mdc.mo.gov/buypermits.

THREE RIVERS SHRINE CLUB KIDS DAY COMING UP THIS WEEKEND

Preparations are underway for the upcoming Three Rivers Shrine Club Kids Day.

The event will be held from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, April 27th at the Three Rivers Shrine Club on Kennedy Lane in Poplar Bluff.

There will be games, activities, and food, including hotdogs and hamburgers, all free of charge.

For more information, contact Bobby Wicker at 573-718-4332.

ROAD PROJECT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route E in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway. 

The work zone is located from Route 25 to County Road 527 near Bloomfield.

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

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN THE MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

Route A in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane today as crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation perform pavement repairs. 

The work zone is located between U.S. Route 412 and County Road 286 near Kennett.

Weather permitting, work will take place through 4 p.m. this afternoon.

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

NATIONWIDE FISHING TOURNAMENT TO INCLUDE STOP IN POPLAR BLUFF

A nationwide fishing tournament will include a stop in Poplar Bluff this summer.

The Kayak Adventure Series will be held in the Poplar Bluff area on July 12th and 13th. The event, dubbed “Ozarkana” is a catch, measure, photo, and release fishing tournament, which will be the third stop of six this year.

According to a release, the series aims to highlight the diverse styles of anglers and the versatility of the kayak. The winners may pocket over $10,000 as a part of the competition.

More information is available at KayakAdventureSeries.com.

TWO TEENAGERS INJURED IN STODDARD COUNTY CRASH

Two teenagers were seriously injured in a single vehicle crash Monday night in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 8:30 pm on Stoddard County Road 651 when a vehicle ran off the roadway and struck a tree.

The driver of the vehicle, a 15 year old male, from Dexter, as well as the passenger, 19 year old Alexander Miller, of Malden, both suffered serious injuries and were transported to a Dexter hospital.

AUDIT STARTED FOR SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTY

An audit has been started for a Southeast Missouri county.

Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick tells KWOC News that he has begun a regularly scheduled audit of Ripley County. The audit officially commenced with an entrance meeting with county officials on April 19th.

The State Auditor's Office last released an audit of Ripley County in 2016. That audit gave the county a rating of "fair" and identified areas for improvement in the county collector's office. It also raised concerns about the county's use of public equipment to make improvements to personal property.

The audit found the county violated the Missouri Constitution when the Road and Bridge Department provided grading services for residents in exchange for donations to the county that were never received.

Individuals may provide confidential information for consideration during the audit to the State Auditor's Whistleblower Hotline at 800-347-8597, or by visiting Auditor.Mo.Gov/Hotline.

HOLCOMB MAN ARRESTED FOR LEAVING THE SCENE OF A CRASH FOLLOWING WRECK IN STODDARD COUNTY

A Holcomb man was taken into custody early Tuesday morning following a crash near Aquilla.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Travis Hopper was driving on Highway M in Stoddard County when his vehicle ran off the side of the roadway and overturned shortly before 1 am.

A passenger in the vehicle was injured and transported to an area hospital.

According to a Highway Patrol arrest report, later Tuesday morning, Hopper was arrested on a felony charge of leaving the scene of an accident with serious physical injury along with charges of driving while revoked or suspended and failure to drive on the right half of the roadway.

MULTIPLE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COUNTIES RECEIVE FUNDING FROM FOREST SERVICE

Multiple counties in Southeast Missouri have received funding through the secure rural schools program from the USDA Forest Service.

According to the Forest Service, Twenty-seven counties across Missouri receive funding through SRS. This comes from a portion of Forest Service funds generated through multi-use activities being distributed back to the counties where these activities occur

This year’s SRS payments were distributed to states this month. The counties decide how they will utilize the payments, starting with what percentage they want for different categories such as roads and schools, projects on Federal lands, or county projects.

Butler County received almost $89,000, Carter County got over $147,000, Ripley County’s funding totaled over $166,000, and Wayne County got over $172,000.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Route J 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 being reduced is located from Route Z to First Street near Deering.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through 4:30 p.m.

Tuesday, April 23, 2024

FORMER NATIONAL CHAMPION WITH THREE RIVERS COLLEGE RETURNS HOME TO COACH THE RAIDERS

A member of the 1979 Three Rivers College National Championship team is coming home to be the new coach of the Raiders.

TRC announced Monday that alumnus Robert Kirby has been hired as the new head coach of the Men’s Basketball team. Kirby is the fourth head coach in Three Rivers history. He follows Bob Cradic, Gene Bess, and Brian Bess.

Kirby played on the 1979 Three Rivers National Championship team and also led them to a fifth-place finish as a sophomore. He was inducted into the Three Rivers Hall of Fame in 2020.

Kirby joins Three Rivers after one year as an assistant coach with Kennesaw State, two years at Ole Miss, and five years on Patrick Ewing’s staff at Georgetown.

During his career, Kirby has also coached at LSU, Memphis, Mississippi State, Houston, Southeastern Louisiana, and UALR.

WILLIAMSVILLE MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON ON MURDER CASE

A Williamsville man will spend the rest of his life in jail in connection to a 2018 murder case.

According to Missouri Case Net, Drew Atchison pleaded guilty last year to three counts of 1st degree murder and armed criminal action, two counts of child kidnapping, and a single count of 1st degree tampering with a motor vehicle.

The charges stem from the deaths of Harley Million, Samara Kits, and the couple's 18 month old child in January of 2018.

Atchison’s sentencing was completed last week, which resulted in him getting sentenced to life in prison without eligibility for parole.

MISSOURI GOVERNOR MIKE PARSON TO BE IN POPLAR BLUFF TODAY

Missouri Governor Mike Parson will be making an appearance in Poplar Bluff today.

Governor Parson will be traveling to the city for a tour of Three Rivers College this morning.

Following the tour, Parson will be hosting an on-campus signing of his book No Turnin' Back.

The Governor is scheduled to be at Three Rivers College from 10:30 am to noon today.

WEEKEND EARTHQUAKE SHAKES SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A weekend earthquake shook parts of Southeast Missouri.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.4 quake was recorded at 10:33 am Sunday morning.

The earthquake was located three miles southeast of Matthews and had a depth of almost three miles.

TENNIS TOURNAMENT SCHEDULED TO RAISE MONEY FOR PBHS TENNIS TEAM

A Tennis Tournament will be held this month to raise funds for the Poplar Bluff High School Tennis Team.

The tournament is scheduled for 10 am on April 27th at the Senior High School.

The cost to enter is $20 per person and players are asked to register by Wednesday at the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Office on North 2nd Street.

For more information, contact Jordan Moss at 573-300-5943.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO FORCE CLOSURE OF STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TODAY

County Road 589 in Stoddard County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The section of County Road 589 being closed is located at the junction of U.S. Route 60 and County Road 589. U.S. Route 60 will not be impacted during the work.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Monday, April 22, 2024

OFC SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT TO BEGIN TODAY

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

The tournament, featuring seven area schools, will start today with three games at Doniphan High School.

Today’s action will start with East Carter taking on Clearwater at noon, followed by Naylor vs. Neelyville at 2 pm. The final game of the quarterfinals will be a matchup between Greenville and Twin Rivers at 4 pm.

The top seed Doniphan received a bye to the Semi-finals where they will play the East Carter-Clearwater winner on Tuesday.

Every game of the tournament will be broadcast live on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page at facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC and the River Radio Youtube page at youtube.com/RiverRadioPB.

MISSOURI ATTORNEY GENERAL FILES LAWSUIT TO SHUT DOWN ILLEGAL DUNKLIN COUNTY CASINO

Missouri’s Attorney General took action Friday against a business in Dunklin County.

On Friday, Attorney General Andrew Bailey filed suit against T.J. Entertainment, an illegal casino operating in Dunklin County, for acting as a public nuisance to Missourians.

The suit comes after his office received investigative referrals from local law enforcement surrounding the facility. Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney Nicholas Jain also filed criminal charges against the operator of the casino, 49 year old Traci Rogers, of Kennett.

Rogers is facing 16 counts of the class E felony of promoting gambling in the first degree.

In a release, Bailey says that in recent months, the casino has been the site of two separate armed robberies, several weapons crimes, and an assault.

AREA LAW ENFORCEMENT TO HOST DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT

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

Multiple area law enforcement agencies will be participating in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 27th from 10 am to 2 pm.

You can find a drop off location in your area by going to DeaTakeBack.com.

2024 SARAH JARBOE WHITE UCAN WALK SET FOR SATURDAY

The 2024 Sarah Jarboe White UCAN walk is coming up this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

According to the United Cancer Assistance Network, the annual three mile walk will be held on Saturday, beginning at 9:30 am at the Danny Bell Cancer Center.

Officials say that over $400,000 has been raised over the past 13 years of the event.

The money has gone to help cancer patients with transportation, utilities, groceries, medical expenses, housing, nutritional supplements, and many other necessities while they are going through chemotherapy and radiation and are unable to continue to work.

For more information, contact the United Cancer Assistance Network at 573-776-1892.

MISSOURIANS URGED TO LEAVE WILDLIFE IN THE WILD

With spring underway many people are heading outside to enjoy the outdoors.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is encouraging anyone experiencing the wilderness to remember to leave wildlife alone. While it may appear young creatures are abandoned, that’s usually not the case.

MDC State Wildlife Veterinarian Sherri Russell says that the parent will usually return. They are normally out searching for food and cannot constantly attend to their offspring.

Russell added that most newborn animals do not survive in captivity.

The care and rehabilitation of wildlife requires special training, facilities, and permits. Without such proper care, wild animals will remain in poor health and could eventually die.

Russell also cautioned that wildlife can become dangerous as they mature, and can also carry parasites, disease, and have the potential to damage property.

For more information, visit mdc.mo.gov.

GUARDRAIL IMPROVEMENTS TO CAUSE DELAYS ON ROUTE 162

Route 162 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with an 11-foot width restriction through the middle of next month as contractor crews perform guardrail improvements.

The section of Route 162 being reduced is located from County Road 263 to County Road 353 near Gideon.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Monday, May 13th.

Friday, April 19, 2024

MULTIPLE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI COMMUNITIES TO RECEIVE GRANT MONEY TO EXPAND 911 SERVICES

Grant funding will go to help expand 911 services in multiple Southeast Missouri communities.

The Missouri 911 Service Board recently approved nearly $16.6 million in grant funding for 911 improvement projects across the state.

These new grants will bring six counties in the Mark Twain Region with only a basic level of 911 services to Next Generation 911 and Text-to-911 services. The six counties are Bollinger, Carter, Ripley, Shannon, Oregon, Wayne County.

Currently, these counties do not have 911 answering equipment, which means calls during emergencies go to seven-digit lines where call-takers do not receive any information on the caller or their location, requiring the citizen to describe those details verbally.

45TH ANNUAL OLD GREENVILLE RENDEZVOUS BEGINS TODAY

The 45th Annual Old Greenville Rendezvous will begin today.

The event, presented by the Crowley’s Ridge Blackpowder Club and the US Army Corps of Engineers at Lake Wappapello, will be held through April 21st at the Greenville Campground.

There will be multiple events and entertainment options available and admission will be free to the public.

For more information, call 573-222-8562.

MDC RELEASES RESULTS FROM CWD TESTING SEASON

Over 160 deer tested positive for CWD during the latest testing year in Missouri.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reports that it sampled and tested more than 37,000 deer for chronic wasting disease during the 2023 CWD surveillance year between July 2023 and April 2024. Of the more than 37,000 deer sampled, 162 tested positive for CWD.

CWD is a 100% fatal disease in white-tailed deer and other members of the deer family. Officials say that the disease has been attributed to significant deer population declines in other states and threatens Missouri’s deer population, hunting culture, and economy.

In Southeast Missouri, four CWD positive deer were found in Oregon County.

SACRED HEART SCHOOL TO HOST FIESTA AUCTION ON SATURDAY

Sacred Heart School’s 27th Annual Fiesta Auction has been set for this weekend.

Officials say the event will be held on Saturday at the Black River Coliseum in Poplar Bluff.

There will be both a live and a silent auction. Doors are set to open at 5 pm, with dinner beginning at 6 pm.

Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 if purchased at the door. Each ticket includes dinner and two adult beverages.

For more information, call 573-785-5836 or visit the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and School of Poplar Bluff Facebook page.

PBHS DRAMA CLUB TO PRESENT “GET SMART” THIS WEEKEND

The PBHS Drama Club is preparing for their next performance.

The Drama Club will be presenting “Get Smart” a full-length play by Christoher Sergel, beginning at 7 pm tonight.

There are additional performances scheduled for 7 pm on Saturday and at 2 pm on Sunday.

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

THERE IS STILL TIME TO REGISTER FOR POPLAR BLUFF BUDDY BALL SEASON

The registration period is almost over 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 Saturday.

Thursday, April 18, 2024

VEHICLE CRASHES INTO POPLAR BLUFF BUSINESS

One person was transported to an area hospital after a vehicle crashed into a Poplar Bluff business Wednesday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred on Business 67 when a vehicle driven by 63 year old Tammy Webb, of Doniphan, struck the rear of a freightliner before crashing into Sunset Pool and Spa.

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

No one inside the business was injured.

ANOTHER ROUND OF SEVERE WEATHER POSSIBLE STARTING THIS AFTERNOON

Another round of severe weather could be entering the area today.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook from the National Weather Service, severe thunderstorms are possible across the region this afternoon into tonight.

Damaging winds, large hail and isolated tornadoes are all possible as a part of this storm system.

According to the National Weather Service, many counties in Southeast Missouri are under an enhanced risk of severe weather today.

MAN SENTENCED TO 50 YEARS IN PRISON ON SATUTORY RAPE AND INVASION OF PRIVACY CHARGES

A Dunklin County man will spend the next five decades behind bars.

According to Dunklin County Prosecutor Nicholas Jain, 43 year old Matthew Prewett, of Kennett, has pleaded guilty to one count of statutory rape in the first degree and eight counts of invasion of privacy.

Jain says that no further information will be released about the charges to protect the victims due to the nature of the charges.

On Wednesday, Prewett was sentenced to 34 years on the statutory rape charge and two years each on the invasion of privacy charges resulting in a 50-year sentence.

Prewett had already been sentenced to 20 years in prison by the United States District Court in Cape Girardeau.

NEW STATE TROOPER ASSIGNED TO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

One new State Trooper will soon be working in Southeast Missouri.

Colonel Eric Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that five troopers graduated from the Patrol’s Accelerated Law Enforcement Academy on Wednesday, April 17th.

Trooper Trevor Sutton, of Poplar Bluff, was assigned to Butler and Ripley Counties. Prior to joining the Patrol, he served as a patrolman with the Jonesboro Police Department in Arkansas.

Trooper Sutton will report to duty in Troop E on Monday, April 29th.

FEED AND SEED EVENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY

New Day Ministry in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a feed and seed event today.

The event is from 3 to 5 pm and is first come, first serve, with packs limited to one per household.

New Day Ministry is located at 703 Franklin Street in Poplar Bluff. For more information, call 573-718-4578.

GUARDRAIL IMPROVEMENTS TO CAUSE DELAYS ON ROUTE 162

Route 153 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform guardrail repairs. 

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Main Street to Marsh Road in the White Oak area.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through 4:30 p.m.