Wednesday, July 17, 2024

ACTIVE SHOOTER TRAINING TO BE CONDUCTED TODAY AT DEXTER PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Do not be frightened if you see an elevated police presence today at Dexter schools.

According to Captain John Moore, the Dexter Police Department will be conducting Mock Active Shooter training this morning at the Dexter Public Schools.

The Dexter Fire Department, Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Stoddard County EMS, and Dexter Public Schools will be involved in this training.

PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULED FOR THIS MORNING TO DISCUSS BUTLER COUNTY GRANT APPLICATION

A meeting will be held this morning to discuss a submission for grant money for Butler County.

County officials will hold a public hearing at 8:45 a.m. in the Butler County Courthouse Commissioner Chambers to discuss the County’s submission of an Competitive Cycle application for the fiscal year 2023/2024 Community Development Block Grant program.

The county is proposing the Broseley Phase Two Paving project. Officials say the area to be addressed is portions of County Road 650 and the total project cost is estimated at approximately $235,000.

The county proposes to contribute $12,500 in cash, $37,500 in-kind labor by county crews, with grant funds of $185,000 needed to make up the balance.

For more information on the proposed project, contact County Clerk Donna Hillis at 573-686-8050.

BOIL WATER ADVISORY ISSUED FOR SOME BUTLER COUNTY RESIDENTS

A boil water advisory is in effect for some Butler County residents.

Butler County Public Water Supply District #3 has announced that the advisory is for all customers on AA Highway between County Road 625 and Highway 51.

The advisory is in effect until further notice.

TEENAGER FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A CRASH IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A Southeast Missouri teenager was flown from the scene of a crash Monday night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 18 year old Juan Reyes, of Arbyrd, was driving on Dunklin County Road 602 when his vehicle ran off the left side of the roadway, struck a ditch, and overturned.

Reyes suffered serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

MALDEN RESIDENTS COMPLAINING OF A LARGE NUMBER OF FOXES IN TOWN

One Southeast Missouri community is having a bit of a fox problem.

According to a post on the Malden Department of Public Safety’s Facebook page, they have received several complaints regarding a large number of foxes around town.

Police officials say that some common items that can deter foxes include chili pepper, garlic, lemon peels, or orange peels. Residents should place the deterrents in the area you want the foxes to stay away from.

CREWS TO BE WORKING ON ROUTE FF THIS WEEK NEAR CARDWELL

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

The work zone is located from Stateline Road to Route F near Cardwell.

Weather permitting, work will take place today and tomorrow from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

Tuesday, July 16, 2024

16TH ANNUAL MULE SKINNER GOLF TOURNAMENT SET FOR AUGUST

The 16th Annual Mule Skinner Golf Tournament is coming up in August.

The four person scramble tournament will be held on Friday, August 2nd at the Westwood Hills Country Club in Poplar Bluff. Lunch will begin at 11:30 am with a shotgun start at 1 pm.

Organizers say the entry fee is $600 per team, which includes a cart and lunch. Hole sponsorships are available for $200 per hole.

All proceeds will go to benefit Poplar Bluff Mules athletics programs.

For more information, contact Derek Rahlmann at 573-718-7591.

MAN DIES IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

A Paragould man has died following a single vehicle crash over the weekend.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 78 year old Edward Killian, of Paragould, was driving on a rural Greene County road Saturday morning when his vehicle ran off the roadway and overturned.

Emergency personnel found Killian dead at the scene.

DATE SET FOR POPLAR BLUFF KINDERGARTEN CENTER OPEN HOUSE

A date has been set for the upcoming open house at the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center.

Drop in times will be available from 9 am to 11 am, 1 pm to 3 pm, and 5 pm to 7 pm on Wednesday, August 14th.

Officials say that class rosters will be posted on the lobby doors at 3:30 pm on August 9th.

SENATH MAN ACCUSED OF BEATING VICTIM WITH TOILET LID

A Senath man is facing an assault charge in connection to an alleged incident at an area health care center.

According to a Probable Cause Affidavit, on Saturday an officer was dispatched to the Senath South Health Care Center in reference to an assault.

Staff told the officer that Christian Ault had taken a toilet lid off the toilet in his room, walked down to the victim’s room, and struck the victim several times in the head with the lid until the lid broke.

The victim was flown to a Jonesboro hospital.

Ault was placed under arrest and transported to the Dunklin County Justice Center. He has been charged with assault 1st degree and his bond was set at $85,000, cash only.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY NEAR DEXTER

Route ZZ in Stoddard County will be reduced this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The section of roadway being worked on is located from U.S. Route 60 to County Road 612 near Dexter.

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

CREWS TO BE WORKING THIS WEEK ON ROUTE AB IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

The work zone is located from South Route N to County Road 547 in the Clines Island area.

Weather permitting, work will take place both today and tomorrow from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

Monday, July 15, 2024

HEAT ADVISORY IN EFFECT FOR EARLY THIS WEEK

A Heat Advisory is in effect for the early part of this week.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the advisory is for most of Southeast Missouri through Tuesday night.

Hot temperatures and high humidity will cause heat index values to rise to approximately 100 to 110 degrees.

Residents are reminded to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room and out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

FORMER PRESIDENT TRUMP INJURED BUT ‘FINE’ AFTER ATTEMPTED ASSISSINATION AT RALLY

Former President Donald Trump was the target of an apparent assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally, days before he was to accept the Republican nomination for a third time.

A barrage of gunfire set off panic Saturday, and a bloodied Trump was surrounded by Secret Service and hurried to his SUV as he pumped his fist in a show of defiance.

Trump’s campaign said the presumptive GOP nominee was doing “fine” after the shooting, which he said pierced the upper part of his right ear.

The FBI early Sunday named 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the assassination attempt. One spectator was killed and two others injured in the shooting at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

President Joe Biden has condemned the attempted assassination of his predecessor as “contrary to everything we stand for as a nation."

MOTORCYCLE CRASH NEAR RISCO KILLS ONE, INJURES ANOTHER

One person is dead following a motorcycle crash over the weekend near Risco.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 67 year old Calvin Morgan, of New Madrid, was riding a motorcycle on US Highway 62 when the motorcycle failed to negotiate a curve, ran off the roadway, and overturned.

Morgan was pronounced dead at the scene by New Madrid County Coroner George Deslisle.

A passenger on the vehicle suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE NEAR QULIN

An Arkansas man was struck by a vehicle late Saturday night in Butler County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 75 year old Charles Akin, of Manilla, Arkansas was hit by a vehicle shortly after 11 pm on County Road 659, one mile north of Qulin.

Akin suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

MAN FACING CHARGES FOR SHOOTING IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A Sikeston man is facing multiple charges in connection to a shooting in Southeast Missouri.

Charleston Department of Public Safety Director Robert Hearnes tells KWOC News that 24 year old Deshauntay Craig, of Sikeston, has been charged with 5 counts of assault 1st degree, 5 counts of armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of a stolen vehicle.

The charges stem from a shooting on July 1st with five victims. None of the injuries were life threatening.

Craig is currently incarcerated in the Butler County Jail on unrelated charges.

The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible. Anyone with information concerning this crime is urged to contact the Charleston DPS at 573 683 3737.

PARMA AWARDED OVER $60,000 FOR WASTEWATER SYSTEM

A Southeast Missouri community will be getting grant money to evaluate its wastewater system.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded a $62,500 Clean Water Engineering Report Grant to the city of Parma.

The city will use the grant to identify wastewater system improvements needed to continue reliable service and reduce stormwater inflow and infiltration into sewer collection pipes. The facility plan should be complete in December 2025.

PIPE REPLACEMENT TO FORCE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF ROUTE W IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route W in Butler County will be closed early this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert beneath the roadway.

The closure will be located between County Road 536 and County Road 534 near Poplar Bluff.

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

CREWS TO CLOSE PORTION OF ROUTE F TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

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

The section of roadway being closed is located from County Road 484 to County Road 461 near Poplar Bluff.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Friday, July 12, 2024

NEW ANNUAL REGISTRATION PROCESS ANNOUNCED FOR POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS

It is now easier for parents in Poplar Bluff to complete their children’s annual registration for Poplar Bluff Schools.

School officials have announced that most of the back-to-school verification paperwork can now be completed online through the new Campus Parent Portal.

All existing Poplar Bluff School District families must complete the Annual Verification process each year to ensure that school records are up to date.

You can find more information at mules.me/verification.

POLICE INVESTIGATING SHOOTING IN POPLAR BLUFF

Police in Poplar Bluff are investigating a shooting that took place on Thursday.

According to officials, the incident reportedly happened shortly before 5 pm in the area of Main and Pershing Streets.

KWOC News can confirm that one person was shot and taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital. The subject suffered non-life threatening injuries.

Two subjects were detained at the scene.

The incident is under investigation by the Poplar Bluff Police Department.

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

JEFF NULL ANNOUNCED AS NEW ATHLETIC DIRECTOR FOR THREE RIVERS COLLEGE

A new athletic director has been announced for Three Rivers College.

TRC Softball coach Jeff Null will be taking over for Brian Bess who retired this year.

Null is entering his ninth year at Three Rivers College with a career record of 279-108. He led the Lady Raiders to the NJCAA World Series 2018 and 2021 and earned Region XVI Coach of the Year honors during both seasons. He was also named MCCAC Coach of the Year four times.

Null also coached for 12 years at the high school level, winning six district titles with an overall record of 326-121.

Null was previously the Athletic Director at Naylor High School from 2010 to 2013 and Greenville High School from 2013 to 2016.

MODOT APPROVES NEW POPLAR BLUFF TRAIL TO RUN PARALLEL TO PP HIGHWAY

A new trail in Poplar Bluff will bridge Poplar Bluff’s trail system with the Wolf Creek Trail.

According to the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce, the Missouri Department of Transportation has given approval for the Wolf Creek Connector Trail project.

The new trail will run parallel to PP Highway. Starting from the Dollar General near the roundabout, the trail will extend along the north side of PP Highway all the way to County Road 447.

Work on the trail by Hessling Construction is set to begin on September 9th.

VEHICLE STRIKES ROAD PAVER IN STODDARD COUNTY, ONE INJURED

One person was injured after a vehicle struck a road paver Thursday morning in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred at around 8 am Thursday on Route M, one mile south of Leora.

The driver of the road paver suffered minor injuries and was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

ANNUAL DEXTER GRILLE IT UP SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

Multiple attractions are scheduled for the 8th Annual Dexter Grille It Up this weekend.

The two day event will begin at 5 pm tonight and at 8 am on Saturday at East Park in Dexter.

There will be a car show, mud volleyball tournament, cornhole tournament, and cook off contest, along with numerous vendors and live music, among other attractions.

For more information, visit the Dexter Parks and Recreation Facebook page.

BULLFEST 2024 SET FOR THIS WEEKEND AT RAY CLINTON PARK

Bull riders will be at Ray Clinton Park this weekend for Bullfest 2024.

The Butler County Fair will be presenting the Hometown Throwdown Bullfest 2024 this Saturday night in Poplar Bluff. The event will begin at 7:30 pm and admission will cost $15, with children five years old and under getting in for free.

There will be calf riding, bull riding, steer riding competitions and more.

For more information, visit the Missouri Butler County Fair Facebook page.

Thursday, July 11, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF BUS DRIVER NAMED MOAPT DRIVER OF THE YEAR

A Poplar Bluff school bus driver has been named the Missouri Association for Pupil Transportation Driver of the Year.

Jason Davis was recently given the award during the MOAPT 59th Annual Conference and Trade Show.

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 Poplar Bluff Transportation 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.”

ARREST MADE IN CONNECTION TO BUTLER COUNTY BURGLARY INVESTIGATION

An arrest has been made in connection to an investigation into multiple burglaries in Butler County.

According to the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, on June 1st, a saw blade grinder was reported stolen from a sawmill in Williamsville.

On July 2nd, a resident reported the burglary of her residence in Williamsville.

On July 3rd, two separate individuals reported burglaries and thefts from their respective camper trailers that were parked on private property near Butler County Road 523A. Trail camera footage captured two individuals who were believed to be responsible.

On July 8th, investigators received information that some of the stolen items were located at a residence in Poplar Bluff. When investigator's arrived at the residence they observed a few stolen items were outside and saw a male flee from the residence on foot.

While executing a search warrant at the home, investigators located James Lewis Boyer hiding in a bedroom. Officials say that Boyer was one of the individuals captured in the trail camera footage.

Boyer was taken into custody and is facing charges of burglary 2nd degree, stealing, and property damage.

MAUD STREET IN POPLAR BLUFF TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR OVERLAY

A Poplar Bluff road will be closed today for a project.

According to the Poplar Bluff Street Department, Maud Street will be closed today through 2 pm so crews can overlay the roadway.

The work zone will be located from Roxie Road to Old Street.

MAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES IN CONNECTION TO FIRES IN PUXICO AREA

A man is facing multiple charges in connection to fires in the Puxico area.

According to Stoddard County Sheriff Carl Hefner, on July 2nd, the Sheriff’s Office received a report of a suspicious fire near County Road 234 and County Road 267 from the previous day.

During the investigation it was discovered that a farm tractor and an electric irrigation well was burnt.

On July 5th, deputies responded to a shop fire in the same area as the tractor and irrigation fires. Deputies learned of a suspect vehicle described as a white Chevrolet truck that was later identified as belonging to 58 year old Allen Wilson of rural Puxico.

During an interview, Wilson admitted that he had set the fires. Hefner says that it is also believed Wilson has also been involved in other arsons in Bollinger County.

Wilson is being held in the Stoddard County Jail on charges of arson 2nd degree, knowingly burning or exploding, and property damage. No bond has been set on the Stoddard County charges. He is also facing a charge of knowingly burning or exploding property out of Bollinger County.

SPEEDING ENFORCEMENT CAMPAIGN UNDERWAY IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A speeding enforcement campaign is underway in Northeast Arkansas.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Arkansas Highway Safety Office are teaming up with Arkansas law enforcement to raise awareness about the dangers of speeding and urging drivers to obey speed limits.

Through July 31, Arkansas State Police Troopers, city police and sheriff’s deputies will be stopping drivers that violate Arkansas speed limit laws and will be issuing tickets as part of the Speeding Slows You Down high-visibility enforcement campaign.

In 2022, there were 12,151 fatalities in speeding-related crashes nationwide, accounting for 29 percent of total traffic fatalities. Young drivers and motorcyclists are especially susceptible to high speeds, and they represent the largest demographic involved in speeding-related vehicle crashes.

GUARDRAIL REPAIRS NEAR INTERSTATE 55 TO CAUSE DELAYS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Eastbound Route U in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction through the middle of next week as contractor crews perform guardrail repairs. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway affected is located between the I-55 Northbound off ramp and I-55 Southbound on ramp near Caruthersville.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Tuesday, July 16.

Wednesday, July 10, 2024

RESIDENTS URGED TO BE CAUTIOUS OF SUSPICIOUS EMAILS FROM LOCAL GOVERNMENTAL SOURCES

Area residents are being urged to be cautious about suspicious emails from what appears to be local government officials.

Lieutenant Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that the emails started going out this week saying that they contain statements from Butler County or the City of Poplar Bluff or similar nomenclature.

If you receive an email like this and are not expecting it, do not open any attachments or click on any links in the email. It could contain malware or other malicious software that could affect your computer.

Contact the office that supposedly sent the email and verify if you were supposed to be getting an email from them.

FIRE DESTROYS CLARKTON CITY HALL

The Clarkton City Hall suffered extensive damage during a fire Monday night.

According to the Dunklin County E911 Emergency Services Facebook Page, emergency services were dispatched to the fire shortly after 6:30 pm Monday evening.

The Clarkton Fire Chief says that there were no injuries from the fire. At this time, the cause of the fire is unknown and an investigation is underway, with the State Fire Marshall assisting. The building is reported to be a total loss.

The Clarkton Fire Department, Clarkton Police Department, Medic One, Malden Fire Department, and Dunklin County Sheriff Department all responded to the scene.

NEW BOOKLETS NOW AVAILABLE FOR HUNTERS IN MISSOURI

Fall will be here before we know it and the Missouri Department of Conservation has made information available for hunters to prepare for hunting season.

Missouri deer, turkey, waterfowl, and dove hunters can get the most current information on upcoming fall hunting from the MDC’s new 2024 Fall Deer and Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet and the Migratory Bird and Waterfowl Hunting Digest.

The 2024 Fall Deer and Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet has detailed information on fall deer and turkey hunting seasons, limits, permits, managed hunts, regulations, conservation areas to hunt, post-harvest instructions, chronic wasting disease updates, and more.

The Migratory Bird and Waterfowl Hunting Digest has detailed information on waterfowl hunting along with hunting doves and several other migratory game birds such as rail, snipe, and woodcock.

Both booklets are available where permits are sold and online at mdc.mo.gov.

PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULED FOR NEXT WEEK TO DISCUSS BUTLER COUNTY GRANT APPLICATION

A meeting will be held next week to discuss a submission for grant money for Butler County.

County officials will hold a public hearing at 8:45 a.m. on July 17th at the Butler County Courthouse Commissioner Chambers to discuss the County’s submission of an Competitive Cycle application for the fiscal year 2023/2024 Community Development Block Grant program.

The county is proposing the Broseley Phase Two Paving project. Officials say the area to be addressed is portions of County Road 650 and the total project cost is estimated at approximately $235,000.

The county proposes to contribute $12,500 in cash, $37,500 in-kind labor by county crews, with grant funds of $185,000 needed to make up the balance.

For more information on the proposed project, contact County Clerk Donna Hillis at 573-686-8050.

FRIENDS OF WAPPAPELLO LAKE TO HOST MONTHLY MEETING TONIGHT

The Friends of Wappapello Lake will be hosting their monthly membership meeting tonight in Wappapello.

The meeting will begin at 6 pm at the Bill Emerson Memorial Visitor Center.

The Friends of Wappapello Lake puts on many events in the Wappapello Lake area, including Movie in the Park and the Festival of Lights Auto Tour.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK NEAR KENNETT

Route Z in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway is located from U.S. Route 412 to County Road 512 near Kennett.

Work is scheduled to take place today and tomorrow from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. each day.

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

REMNANTS OF TROPICAL STORM BERYL CAUSING FLOODING CHANCES IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

The remnants of Tropical System Beryl are crossing Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas today, increasing the risk of flooding throughout the area.

According to the National Weather Service, tropical downpours will lead to multiple inches of rain possibly falling across the area this week, with totals potentially getting up to as high as six inches in parts of Wayne, Carter, Ripley, and Butler Counties.

The storm system is also bringing with it chances of severe thunderstorms, heavy winds, and possible tornadoes this afternoon and evening.

MOVIE SHOWING TO INCLUDE DISCUSSION WITH LOCAL WEATHER PANELISTS

A panel discussion will be held as a part of a showing of a new blockbuster movie in Poplar Bluff.

The AMC Classic 8 will host a showing of the new movie Twisters at 10 am on Saturday, July 27th. Tickets are five dollars and will include popcorn, a soda, and a panel discussion with Steve Eddy from the National Weather Service along with Frankie Casteel of Today’s Talk KWOC.

Tickets are available online at eventbrite.com.

ONE INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

An Illinois woman was seriously injured in a single vehicle crash Monday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 65 year old Brenda Cox, of Carbondale, was driving on Interstate 55 in New Madrid County when her vehicle ran off the roadway, struck a cable barrier, and overturned in a field.

Cox suffered serious injuries during the crash and was transported to an area hospital.

PUBLIC ASKED TO PROVIDE INPUT FOR UPCOMING BRIDGE REPLACEMENT IN STODDARD COUNTY

The Missouri Department of Transportation is seeking public input regarding a proposed project to replace the Route 114 bridge over Dexter Creek in Stoddard County.

Officials say that while the bridge is safe for travel, the 90-year-old structure is considered to be in poor condition. The bridge is in need of replacement, and the project is currently in the design phase.

During the bridge replacement, which is currently expected for the 2027 construction season, the road and bridge will be closed for approximately 70 days.

Individuals and organizations wishing to comment on the project may do so by Wednesday, July 24 at modot.org or on the MoDOT Southeast District Facebook and Twitter pages.

EIGHT PEOPLE KILLED IN MISSOURI TRAFFIC CRASHES DURING HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Traffic crash numbers were steady during the 4th of July holiday weekend this year in Missouri.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, troopers worked 382 traffic crashes, which included 159 injuries and eight fatalities. None of the fatalities were located in Southeast Missouri.

During the 2023 counting period, eight people were killed and 152 injured statewide in Missouri during 390 traffic crashes.

This year, troopers also made 147 DWI arrests over the holiday weekend.

ANNUAL POLLARD PICNIC SCHEDULED FOR JULY 13TH

The Annual Pollard Picnic is coming up this weekend in Northeast Arkansas.

The event will be held on Saturday, July 13th in Pollard, Arkansas, and will feature fried chicken dinners, music, baseball games, games for children, and the annual Pollard Beauty Pageants.

The pageants will begin at 10 am and continue through the rest of the day. There will be multiple divisions from birth through 18 years old. The entry fee for each division is $30.

There is no pre-registration, entries should arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled beginning of their pageant.

Monday, July 8, 2024

ANNUAL DEXTER GRILLE IT UP SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

Multiple attractions are scheduled for the 8th Annual Dexter Grille It Up this weekend.

The two day event will begin at 5 pm on July 12th and at 8 am on July 13th at East Park in Dexter.

There will be a car show, mud volleyball tournament, cornhole tournament, and cook off contest, along with numerous vendors and live music, among other attractions.

For more information, visit the Dexter Parks and Recreation Facebook page.

ONE IN CUSTODY FOR ALLEGED INCIDENT INVOLVING FIREWORKS

A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody on Friday following an alleged incident involving fireworks.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, officers were dispatched to a residence on Fairmount in reference to property damage.

At the scene, the victim told officers that five males had attempted to put fireworks in the gas tank of their vehicle.

Officers then located five males walking toward the residence. The males then began running once they observed the officers. One of the males, identified as 21 year old Detrayous Wallace of Poplar Bluff, was taken into custody a short time later. The same type of fireworks used at the scene were located in Wallace’s property.

Wallace was processed and lodged in the Butler County Justice Center.

TRAIN STRIKES VEHICLE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS, ONE DEAD

One person died Friday after a train struck a vehicle in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the collision occurred shortly after 6 pm on Friday along US Highway 63 when a vehicle failed to yield at a right of way and was struck by the train.

A passenger in the vehicle, 33 year old Kathryn Boone, of Marion, was killed in the crash.

The driver and another passenger were injured and transported to area hospitals.

TODAY IS THE DEADLINE TO REGISTER FOR 32ND ANNUAL CHILDREN’S THEATER DRAMA CAMP

Today is the final day to register for the 32nd Annual Children’s Theater Drama Camp at Three Rivers College.

The camp for students entering 2nd to 8th grade will begin on July 15th at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center on the Three Rivers College Poplar Bluff campus. There will be two separate one week camps this year.

The cost of the drama camp is $75, which includes a T-shirt, scripts, notebook, daily snack and drink.

Registration forms are available at trcc.edu.

BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Route H in Dunklin County will be closed beginning today as construction crews replace the bridge over Lateral Ditch Number Two.

The section of roadway is located from County Road 200 to County Road 206 near Glennonville.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, work is scheduled to be completed by Friday, November 1. The bridge will remain closed until the construction is complete.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE PROJECT TO CAUSE DELAYS IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Route C in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge maintenance.

The work zone is located between County Road 448 and County Road 452.

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

Wednesday, July 3, 2024

HEAT INDICES EXPECTED TO GET WELL ABOVE 100 DEGREES TODAY

Hot weather will be covering the area today and area residents are encouraged to take precautions.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, heat index values are expected to reach 105 to 110 degrees today, depending on the timing of possible thunderstorms. A heat advisory or excessive heat warning will also be in effect today for some areas.

Most of Southeast Missouri has a slight risk of severe weather, including isolated to scattered thunderstorms today into tonight.

The next few days could see lots of rainfall, with at least most of the area receiving half of an inch. Some communities, such as Northern Wayne County and Southern Madison County, could get over three inches of precipitation.

POPLAR BLUFF TO CELEBRATE THE FOURTH OF JULY ON THURSDAY

Poplar Bluff residents will be out celebrating the Fourth of July holiday coming up on Thursday.

The celebration will start Thursday morning with the Red, White, and Run 5K run and walk beginning at 7:30 am. Proceeds from the run will go to the Palace of Praise Lady Ministries.

The DAR Independence Day parade will start at 9 am. The parade line will begin at 6:30 am at Sky High Indoor Park.

The day will be capped off with the annual Poplar Bluff Independence Day Fireworks display, beginning at around 9 pm in downtown Poplar Bluff.

FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS

Many Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas communities will be holding fireworks celebrations this week, but some area residents will also be enjoying the festivities at home.

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission has released some fireworks safety tips to help keep you and your family safe this Fourth of July.

The CPSC advises parents to never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks and always have adult supervision when kids of any age are playing with fireworks, including sparklers.

Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully and keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap. Also, never point or throw fireworks at another person.

Do not light fireworks in any areas where the sparks could ignite dry grass, leaves, or other potential fire fuel. Also remember to check with local ordinances and authorities for bans on fireworks and open burning.

TWO IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING HIGH SPEED PURSUIT IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A high speed pursuit came to an end in Northern Butler County on Monday.

The pursuit began in Wayne County and stop sticks were used multiple times before the vehicle finally came to rest in Butler County Monday morning.

Two people have been taken into custody. They are identified as 24 year old Deshauntay Craig and 18 year old James Williamson, both of Poplar Bluff. Both are charged with resisting arrest by fleeing, assault 3rd degree, and leaving the scene of an accident.

The Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, the Poplar Bluff Police Department, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol all assisted with the investigation.

POPLAR BLUFF AWARDED OVER $300,000 FOR SIDEWALK ON EAST SIDE OF TOWN

More money is coming to Poplar Bluff for infrastructure improvements.

According to the Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission, Poplar Bluff will receive $300,784 for the East Pine Crosswalk - Linc Park Connector Sidewalk crossing Highway 60 on the east side of the city.

The money comes from the 2024 Transportation Alternatives Program by the Missouri Department of Transportation. Other southeast Missouri cities, such as Dexter and Kennett, were also chosen to receive funding for their projects.

DEADLINE IS FRIDAY TO PURCHASE TAGS FOR BULKY ITEM PICKUP

Friday 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.

Friday 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, July 9th.

MISSOURI STATE OFFICES TO BE CLOSED FRIDAY

Missouri State Offices will not be open on Friday.

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has directed state offices to be closed on July 5, to allow state team members more time with their loved ones over the Fourth of July holiday.

Governor Parson has also ordered the Missouri State Capitol dome to shine red, white, and blue the evening of July 4 in celebration of the Independence Day holiday.

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

RIVER RADIO BLOOD DRIVE SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK

Reservations are now being accepted for the next River Radio Blood Drive in Poplar Bluff.

The Blood Drive has been scheduled for noon to 5 pm on Friday, July 5th, at Larry Hillis Dodge on North Westwood Boulevard.

Anyone wanting to donate can call 1-800 Red Cross or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter the code CARDS to schedule an appointment.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING FIRE IN KENNETT

Authorities in Kennett are investigating a fire that was believed to have been intentionally set over the weekend.

According to the Kennett Fire Department, Sunday morning crews were dispatched to a fire at a vacant structure.

Firefighters entered the structure and quickly controlled the fire. Damage to the structure was limited and there were no injuries.

During the investigation, the cause of the fire was ruled to have been intentionally set.

Anyone with information about the incident can contact Kennett Police Department investigator Jeremy Yates at 573-888-4622.

INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST OF POPLAR BLUFF MAN FOR FAILURE TO REGISTER AS A SEX OFFENDER

An investigation last week in Poplar Bluff led to the arrest of a local man.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, 57 year old Eligia Carl, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested on Friday and held in the Butler County Jail on a charge of failure to register as a sex offender.

According to the Missouri Sex Offender Registry, Carl was convicted of sexual abuse in 1986.

TRACTOR AND TRUCK PULL COMING THIS WEEK TO POPLAR BLUFF

A Tractor and Truck Pull is coming this Saturday to Poplar Bluff.

The USA Pullers Tractor and Truck Pull is scheduled for Saturday, July 6th at Poplar Bluff Motorsports Park.

The event will begin at 7 pm and admission is $15, with children five and under getting in for free.

More information is available at USAPullers.org.

SIX INJURED DURING SHOOTING IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Numerous people were injured during a shooting early Monday morning in Southeast Missouri.

Robert Hearnes, Director of the Charleston Department of Public Safety, tells KWOC News, that officers investigated a shooting reported near the intersection of Vine and Sy Williams Streets at approximately 12:30 AM Monday.

It was determined that six people had been shot. None of the victims suffered life threatening injuries.

Hearnes says that the initial investigation indicates several of the victims might have been caught in the crossfire of other people shooting.

Anyone with information concerning this shooting is asked to contact the Charleston DPS at 573-683-3737.

WOMAN FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING CRASH IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A woman was flown to a regional hospital Monday morning following a crash in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Jada Luers, of Bois De Arc, was driving on Highway 49 in Reynolds County when her vehicle traveled off the side of the roadway and overturned.

Luers suffered serious injuries and was transported to Ellington before being flown to a St. Louis hospital.

Monday, July 1, 2024

MULES GOLF TEAM TO PLAY IN NATIONAL TOURNAMENT THIS WEEK

The Poplar Bluff Mules will be participating in a National Tournament this week.

The Class 4 State Champion Mules Golf team is playing in the 2024 High School Golf National Invitational.

The 54-hole event showcases 312 of the best High School golfers in the country.

Poplar Bluff Athletics Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that the tournament will be held today through Wednesday at the Omni PGA Frisco Resort in Frisco, Texas.

OVER 150 MILLION DOLLARS ALLOCATED FOR HIGHWAY 67 IMPROVEMENTS

Over one hundred million dollars has been allocated to Butler County for improvements to US Highway 67.

On Friday, Missouri Governor Mike Parson signed the Fiscal Year 2025 state operating and capital improvement budget bills.

Poplar Bluff City Manager Matt Winters tells KWOC News that the budget includes approximately 150 million dollars for Butler County to go towards improvements on US Highway 67. 60 million dollars will come from the general revenue fund, while 90 million will come from the state road fund.

Funds could go to upgrading the roadway as a part of the Future Interstate 57 project which would extend Interstate 57 from Sikeston to Little Rock.

TWO KILLED IN HEAD ON COLLISION IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

A head-on collision in New Madrid County claimed the lives of two people.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the crash occurred shortly before 1 am Sunday morning on Highway 61 when a vehicle driven by 32 year old Jasymine Clark, of Malden, crossed the center of the roadway and struck an oncoming vehicle.

Both Clark and the driver of the second vehicle, 43 year old Michael Coaker, of Sikeston, were pronounced dead at the scene.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING SHOOTING IN POPLAR BLUFF

An investigation is underway into a shooting over the weekend in Poplar Bluff.

Shortly after 4 pm on Sunday, officers were dispatched to the 400 Block of Highway 53 in reference to shots being fired.

At the scene, officers made contact with a victim who had a gunshot wound to the leg. The victim was then transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

Captain Chuck Harris with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that the investigation is ongoing and further details will be released as they become available.

HIGHWAY PATROL PREPARING FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY TRAFFIC

With the Fourth of July coming up, troopers with the Missouri State Highway Patrol are preparing for an increase in travelers on Missouri’s roadways.

Officials tell KWOC News that the Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. over the July Fourth holiday weekend. All available troopers will be patrolling Missouri’s roadways enforcing Missouri’s traffic laws in addition to being available to assist motorists.

During the 2023 counting period, 15 people were killed and 646 injured in Missouri in 1,505 traffic crashes. Troopers also arrested 125 people for driving while intoxicated.

Troopers will also be working on the state’s waterways to enforce Missouri’s boating laws and provide assistance where needed. Missouri’s boaters are being asked to do their part by remaining alert for other boats and swimmers, and being courteous on the water.

Last year there were 11 boating crashes, which included two injuries and no fatalities during the holiday weekend.

The 2024 counting period for the July Fourth holiday will be from 6 p.m. on Wednesday to 11:59 p.m. on Sunday.

ISLAND REPLACEMENTS TO CAUSE DELAYS ON US ROUTE 60

U.S. Route 60 in Butler and Carter Counties will be reduced through the end of August as contractor crews remove and replace islands at various intersections.

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

The islands are located from the intersection of Route 67 near Poplar Bluff to Route M near Van Buren.

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

Friday, June 28, 2024

LONGTIME RIVER RADIO GENERAL MANAGER JOHN RICE RETIRES

Friday will be the final day at work for a fixture in the Poplar Bluff community.

River Radio General Manager John Rice is retiring after over 30 years with the company. Rice started as a marketing consultant in 1991, before being promoted to sales manager and eventually General Manager.

Rice has helped entertain and inform Poplar Bluff and the surrounding communities through good times, bad times, natural disasters and more, he has been here for it all.

Everyone at River Radio wants to say thank you to John for helping lead us over the past decades and wish him nothing but the best in his retirement.

BODY FOUND FLOATING IN MISSISSIPPI RIVER, INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY

An investigation is underway after a body was found floating in the Mississippi River Wednesday morning.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, at around 10:40 am Wednesday, a report came in of a human body floating in the Mississippi River near Marsh Landing, approximately eight miles east of Portageville.

At approximately 2 pm, the body was located by a crew working on a dike approximately one mile south of the search area and New Madrid County Coroner George DeLisle took possession of the body.

The unidentified white male is described as being in his 40s or 50s with dark hair and several tattoos. An autopsy is scheduled for Friday morning.

Agencies involved in the search included the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Department, New Madrid County Coroner’s Office, New Madrid County Emergency Management, Portageville Police Department, and New Madrid Fire Department.

Anyone with information on the man’s identity is asked to contact the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department at 573-748-2516.

ROCK THE COUNTRY BEGINS TODAY AT BRICKS OFF ROAD PARK

The music event of the summer kicks off today in Butler County.

Brick’s Off Road Park is the site for the Poplar Bluff stop of Rock the Country, featuring Jason Aldean, Kid Rock, Hank Williams Jr, Uncle Kracker, and more.

Doors open for the two day festival at 3 pm this afternoon and RV’s have been filing in since yesterday.

Poplar Bluff officials say that shuttles will also be available from town to Brick’s Off Road Park to help alleviate traffic congestion.

Tickets are still available, for more information, go online to RockTheCountry.com.

MIGRATION TO BE SHOWN AT MOVIE IN THE PARK NIGHT THIS FRIDAY

The Spillway Recreation area at Wappapello Lake will be converted to a movie theater this weekend.

Movie in the Park will begin at dusk tonight at the Spillway Recreation Area.

The film Migration will be shown, free of charge, and there will also be one free snack and drink available per person. Attendees should remember to bring a lawn chair or blanket.

The Spillway Recreation area is located off of Highway T right before the dam.

RIPLEY COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS TO HOST FREEDOM FEST ON SATURDAY

Multiple events will highlight Freedom Fest 2024 at the Ripley County Fairgrounds this weekend.

The celebration is scheduled for Saturday with gates opening at 2 pm.

Organizers say that there will be a petting zoo, pony rides, bounce house park, escape rooms, laser tag, and more.

The night will end with a performance by Kentucky Headhunters and a fireworks show.

Tickets will be available at the gate for $15, with children 12 and under getting in for free.

For more information, contact the Ripley County Chamber of Commerce at 573-996-2212.

FIREWORKS TO LIGHT UP LAKE WAPPAPELLO THIS WEEKEND

Lake Wappapello will be illuminated by fireworks ahead of the Independence Day holiday.

According to the Wappapello Lake US Army Corps of Engineers, “Fireworks at the Lake” has been scheduled for Saturday, June 29th at the Redman Creek Recreation Area.

Multiple events will be held at the Recreation Area this Saturday, including a Classic Car Cruise In, obstacle course, and petting zoo.

Officials say that the fireworks will start when it gets dark.

More information is available on the Wappapello Lake US Army Corps of Engineers Facebook Page.

Thursday, June 27, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF FIRE DEPARTMENT CONDUCTS WATER RESCUE

The Poplar Bluff Fire Department conducted a water rescue Wednesday morning.

The rescue was needed due to the high water on Ida Street and multiple people and pets were able to be evacuated.

Officials say that Poplar Bluff received 4.14 inches of rainfall Wednesday, which broke the city record for the most rainfall in a single day in June.

Over a half inch of rainfall was also recorded late Tuesday night.

NAME RELEASED OF SUBJECT IN FATAL OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING IN BUTLER COUNTY

An Arkansas man died Wednesday following an officer involved shooting in Butler County.

The shooting occurred Wednesday morning at the Camelot RV Park, located across US 67 from the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop E Headquarters, north of Poplar Bluff.

Butler County Coroner Jim Akers tells KWOC News that the subject, identified as 61 year old Paul Wilhite, of Brinkley, Arkansas died later on Wednesday at a Poplar Bluff Hospital.

An autopsy is scheduled for Friday.

Troopers with the Missouri State Highway Patrol along with Division of Drug and Crime Control, the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, the US Marshals Service, and the Butler County Coroner’s Office are all involved with the investigation.

ONE DEAD IN CONNECTION TO OVERNIGHT CRASH IN WAYNE COUNTY

A Clubb man is dead in connection to a late Tuesday night crash in Wayne County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 21 year old Kenneth Hunden was driving on Missouri Highway 34 shortly before midnight when his vehicle traveled off the roadway and overturned.

Hunden was pronounced dead at the scene by Wayne County Coroner Mark Smith.

WEATHER FORCES DELAY FOR EARLY DROP OFF FOR ROCK THE COUNTRY

Rock the Country starts on Friday, however mother nature forced a delay to those wanting to get the party going as early as possible.

Early drop off had been scheduled for Wednesday at Brick’s Off Road Park, however the heavy rains caused officials to ask for campers to be parked at the Black River Coliseum parking lot.

Early Drop Off is now scheduled for Thursday morning from 8 to 10 am at Brick’s Off Road Park.

More information is available on the Brick’s Off Road Park Facebook page.

VEHICLE STRIKES BICYCLE NEAR MALDEN, ONE INJURED

A vehicle struck a bicycle Tuesday afternoon in Dunklin County, resulting in an injury to the bike rider.

According to a crash report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred at around 3:30 pm Tuesday on Highway J, one mile west of Malden.

The bicycle rider, 77 year old Katherine Switzer, of Cobden, Illinois, suffered minor injuries and was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

According to the Highway Patrol, the driver of the vehicle, 26 year old Kaitlynn Rinehart, of Malden, was later arrested on a felony charge of leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident.

ISLAND REPLACEMENT PROJECT UNDERWAY ON US HIGHWAY 67

U.S. Route 67 in Butler and Wayne Counties will be reduced through late July as contractor crews remove and replace islands at various intersections.

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

The islands are located from the intersection of Route W in Poplar Bluff to Route 34 near Silva.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Thursday, July 26.

Wednesday, June 26, 2024

ABSENTEE VOTING OPENS FOR UPCOMING PRIMARY ELECTION

The Missouri Primary Election is underway.

Absentee voting began Tuesday for the Missouri Primary, which is scheduled for August 6th.

An absentee ballot can be requested from your local election authority. There are a number of reasons someone can request an absentee ballot, including incapacity or confinement due to illness or physical disability or if you expect to be absent on Election Day.

There is still time to register to vote in the primary election, which will feature both local and statewide races. The final day to register is July 10th.

More information is available at sos.mo.gov.

MULES BOOSTER CLUB TO HOST SEND OFF FOR MULES GOLF TEAM

An event will be held this week to raise money for the Poplar Bluff Mules Golf team before they head to compete this weekend in Texas.

The PB Mules Booster Club will host a meet and greet and send off for the team beginning at 5 pm on Thursday at the Westwood Hills Country Club.

On Saturday, the Missouri State Champion Mules Golf Team will compete in the 2024 PGA High School Golf National Invitational in Frisco, Texas.

Donations will be taken during the send off to help pay for the Golf Team’s travel expenses.

FIREWORKS TO LIGHT UP LAKE WAPPAPELLO THIS WEEKEND

Lake Wappapello will be illuminated by fireworks ahead of the Independence Day holiday.

According to the Wappapello Lake US Army Corps of Engineers, “Fireworks at the Lake” has been scheduled for Saturday, June 29th at the Redman Creek Recreation Area.

Multiple events will be held at the Recreation Area this Saturday, including a Classic Car Cruise In, obstacle course, and petting zoo.

Officials say that the fireworks will start when it gets dark.

More information is available on the Wappapello Lake US Army Corps of Engineers Facebook Page.

WOMAN DIES FROM INJURIES SHE RECEIVED IN A SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A woman has died from injuries she received in a single vehicle crash in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 52 year old Natasha Williams, of Bryant, was driving on US Highway 67 in Lawrence County Saturday night when her vehicle ran off the roadway and struck an embankment.

Williams was ejected during the wreck and transported to a Memphis hospital. The Arkansas State Police reported Tuesday that she died from her injuries.

TRACTOR AND TRUCK PULL COMING NEXT MONTH TO POPLAR BLUFF

A Tractor and Truck Pull is coming next month to Poplar Bluff.

The USA Pullers Tractor and Truck Pull is scheduled for Saturday, July 6th at Poplar Bluff Motorsports Park.

The event will begin at 7 pm and admission is $15, with children five and under getting in for free.

More information is available at USAPullers.org.

CITY OF PIEDMONT PREPARING FOR 4TH OF JULY ACTIVITIES

The city of Piedmont is getting ready for their 4th of July Celebration.

According to the Piedmont Chamber of Commerce, multiple events are planned for Independence Day, including old fashioned games, a petting zoo, vendors, food, and more starting at 4 pm on the Greenway.

Line up will begin for the parade at 6 pm at Clearwater High School. Fireworks will start at approximately 9:15 pm.

For more information, contact the Piedmont Chamber of Commerce at 573-223-4046.

Tuesday, June 25, 2024

HEAT ADVISORY TO BE IN EFFECT BEGINNING AT NOON TODAY

A Heat Advisory will go into effect beginning this afternoon.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the advisory is for all of Southeast Missouri from noon through 8 pm tonight.

Hot temperatures and high humidity will cause heat index values to rise to around 105 degrees.

Residents are reminded to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room and out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN KILLED IN FATAL CRASH

A man from Southeast Missouri was killed in a recent crash in Kentucky.

According to the Graves County Sheriff’s Office, 80 year old Robert Garner, of Advance, was traveling on Kentucky 408 west on Friday when he pulled into the path of an oncoming minivan at an intersection.

The vehicles collided and then traveled off the roadway and struck a utility pole.

Garner was pronounced dead at the scene by the Graves County Coroner’s Office.

A passenger in Garner’s vehicle as well as the driver of the second vehicle received minor injuries and were transported to area hospitals. A passenger in the second vehicle suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Nashville hospital.

TRACTOR OVERTURNS ON MAN IN DUDLEY AREA

A tractor overturned on a man Saturday morning in Stoddard County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 49 year old Ralph Barker, of Dudley, was operating the tractor on private property along Highway WW when the tractor overturned on a steep embankment.

Barker received serious injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN IN CUSTODY FOR ALLEGED SEXUAL INDECENCY WITH A CHILD

A Northeast Arkansas man is in custody on multiple charges, including sexual indecency with a child.

According to the Paragould Police Department, an arrest warrant was issued for 45 year old Aundra Woods, of Paragould, after a victim under the age of 18 reported that Woods had sexually assaulted them.

Woods was arrested on charges of 2nd degree sexual assault and sexual indecency with a child.

He is being held in the Greene County Jail on no bond.

WOMAN FLOWN TO AREA HOSPITAL FOLLOWING CRASH NEAR GLENNONVILLE

A Campbell woman was seriously injured after being involved in a single vehicle crash near Glennonville.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 64 year old Denise Bader was driving on Route J, in Dunklin County, Saturday morning when her vehicle ran off the roadway, struck a culvert, and overturned.

Bader received serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON ROUTE AB IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

The section of Route AB being reduced is located between Route N and County Road 547 near Circle City.

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

Monday, June 24, 2024

THIS WEEK IS LIGHTNING SAFETY WEEK

This week is Lightning Safety Awareness week and weather officials are wanting residents to be prepared.

According to the National Weather Service, National Lightning Safety Awareness Week started in 2001 in order to call attention to lightning being an underrated killer. Since then, U.S. lightning fatalities have dropped from about 55 per year to less than 30.

During a thunderstorm or lightning storm, go to a basement if available. If not, go to the lowest level of the building and move to a small interior room or hallway. Stay away from doors and windows.

If time permits, move your vehicle into a garage or carport to help prevent damage. Avoid traveling in a severe thunderstorm – delay your travel plans until the storms pass or get off the road and seek shelter in a building.

Weather officials also say that there is really no safe place to go if you are outdoors when it is lightning. You must move to a building or an enclosed vehicle.

RIPLEY COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS TO HOST FREEDOM FEST ON JUNE 29TH

Multiple events will highlight Freedom Fest 2024 at the Ripley County Fairgrounds this weekend.

The celebration is scheduled for June 29th with gates opening at 2 pm.

Organizers say that there will be a petting zoo, pony rides, bounce house park, escape rooms, laser tag, and more.

The night will end with a performance by Kentucky Headhunters and a fireworks show.

Tickets will be available at the gate for $15, with children 12 and under getting in for free.

For more information, contact the Ripley County Chamber of Commerce at 573-996-2212.

WAPPAPELLO MAN GRADUATES FROM HIGHWAY PATROL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY

One new State Trooper has been assigned to Southeast Missouri.

Colonel Eric Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, tells KWOC News that a total of 21 troopers graduated from the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy on Friday, June 21st.

One of the graduates was from Southeast Missouri.

William Vanmatre, of Wappapello, was assigned to cover Stoddard County.

Trooper Vanmatre will report to duty in Troop E on Monday, July 8th.

MIGRATION TO BE SHOWN AT MOVIE IN THE PARK NIGHT THIS FRIDAY

The Spillway Recreation area at Wappapello Lake will be converted to a movie theater this weekend.

Movie in the Park will begin at dusk on Friday at the Spillway Recreation Area.

The film Migration will be shown, free of charge, and there will also be one free snack and drink available per person. Attendees should remember to bring a lawn chair or blanket.

The Spillway Recreation area is located off of Highway T right before the dam.

5K RUN AND WALK TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF ON INDEPENDENCE DAY

A 5K Run and Walk will be held in Poplar Bluff on the 4th of July to raise money for an area church.

The Red, White, and Run 5K run and walk will begin at 7:30 am on Thursday, July 4th. Registration will begin at 7 am and the entry fee is $25.

There will be medals for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each age division as well as a special prize for the best patriotic attire. You can register by going to PB Realty Downtown on Vine Street.

Proceeds from the event will go to the Palace of Praise Lady Ministries.

POPLAR BLUFF PARKS AND RECREATION TO HOST BACK TO SCHOOL BASH IN AUGUST

The Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Department has started preparations for the end of summer event.

The Free Back to School Bash has been scheduled for 9 am to 1 pm on Saturday, August 3rd at Whiteley Park in Poplar Bluff.

There will be music, yard games, food trucks, and fun for the entire family. Registration is open for food trucks as well as for local organizations who want to give away school supplies at the event.

For more information, go to the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Facebook page.

Friday, June 21, 2024

APPLICATION PERIOD FOR MANAGED DEER HUNTS BEGINS IN JULY

The application period for managed deer hunts in Missouri will begin next month.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, beginning July 1st, deer hunters can apply online through the MDC website for a shot at more than 150 managed deer hunts throughout the state this fall and winter.

The deer hunts will be for archery, muzzleloading, shotgun, and modern firearms from mid-September through mid-January. Some of the hunts will be held specifically for youth or for people with disabilities.

The application period will be from July 1st to July 31st and hunters will be selected by a weighted random drawing.

More information is available at mdc.mo.gov/managedhunt.

WATERFEST SET FOR SATURDAY AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE

The Redman Creek Beach at Wappapello Lake will be the site for a free day of activities this weekend.

The Wappapello Lake US Army Corps of Engineers will be hosting the Ranger Willie B. Safe’s Waterfest from 11 am to 3 pm on Saturday.

Park Rangers will be on hand to play games, teach visitors how to stay safe around the water, and give away prizes to participating beachgoers. There will also be a PFD Fashion Show, Cardboard Boat Race, Inner Tube Race, and Sandcastle building contest.

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

BOIL WATER ADVISORY ISSUED FOR SOME BUTLER COUNTY RESIDENTS

A boil water advisory is in effect for some Butler County residents.

Butler County Public Water Supply District #3 has announced that the advisory is for residents on Highway 51, south of AA Highway. This includes CC Highway as well.

The advisory is in effect until further notice.

DATE SCHEDULED FOR TWIN RIVERS NEW ENROLLMENT AND ONLINE HELP DESK EVENT

An event will be held in early August to make sure students are registered for the Twin Rivers School District.

The New Enrollment and Online Help Desk is set for noon to 6 pm on August 1st at Twin Rivers High School.

The Online Help Desk will be for parents who need help completing online registration for their returning students.

The New Enrollment will be for families whose children will be new students at Twin Rivers.

The event is for families from Kindergarten through 12th grade, however incoming kindergarten students who attend pre-school screening have already completed their new student enrollment paperwork.

FOCUS GROUP TO BE HELD IN BUTLER COUNTY TO DISCUSS COMMUNITY HEALTH NEEDS

Participants are needed for a focus group scheduled for next month in Butler County.

According to the Butler County Health Department, the focus group will meet to discuss community health needs from 6 to 7 pm on Friday, July 19th at the Health Department.

Dinner will be provided from 5:30 to 6 pm before the event.

For more information, call 573-785-8478, extension 215.

ANNUAL POLLARD PICNIC SCHEDULED FOR JULY 13TH

The date has been set for the Annual Pollard Picnic in Northeast Arkansas.

The event will be held on Saturday, July 13th in Pollard, Arkansas, and will feature fried chicken dinners, music, baseball games, games for children, and the annual Pollard Beauty Pageants.

The pageants will begin at 10 am and continue through the rest of the day. There will be multiple divisions from birth through 18 years old. The entry fee for each division is $30.

There is no pre-registration, entries should arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled beginning of their pageant.

Thursday, June 20, 2024

CHARLES HARRIS TO TAKE OVER ROLE OF PBPD PATROL COMMANDER FOLLOWING RETIREMENT OF DAVID SUTTON

A new patrol commander is coming to the Poplar Bluff Police Department.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Mike McClain announced Wednesday morning that Charles Harris has been promoted to Captain and will be assuming the role of Patrol Commander.

Harris is a 21 year veteran of the Poplar Bluff Police Department and is succeeding Captain David Sutton, who is retiring next month after an almost three decade tenure with the PBPD.

PUXICO MAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES FOLLOWING ATTEMPTED ROBBERY OF DEXTER CONVENIENCE STORE

A Puxico man is facing multiple charges following the attempted robbery of a Dexter convenience store.

Dexter Police Chief Hank Trout tells KWOC News that the incident happened early Monday morning at a store on Business Highway 60.

An employee told officers that a white male entered the store, pressed what felt like a gun in her back, and demanded money. The employee refused and kicked the suspect, after which he ran out of the store.

The suspect was later identified as 26 year old Samuel Kilbreth and was taken into custody at a residence in Puxico on an active Probation and Parole Warrant.

On Tuesday, Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Sawyer Smith filed felony charges against Kilbreth of attempted robbery 1st degree, armed criminal action, assault 2nd degree, unlawful possession of a firearm, tampering with physical evidence in a felony prosecution, and unlawful use of a weapon.

Kilbreth was held at the Stoddard County Jail on a No Bond Warrant.

He is scheduled for arraignment this morning.

VEHICLE OVERTURNS IN DUNKLIN COUNTY, DRIVER FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL

One person was injured in a single vehicle crash Tuesday night near Clarkton.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 32 year old Brittney Bearden, of Malden, was driving on Highway 25 when her vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway and overturned.

Bearden was flown to a Memphis hospital with serious injuries.

4TH ANNUAL L.O.L. WITH ADDIE SHOE AND SOCK GIVEAWAY SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 10TH

A footwear giveaway has been scheduled for this August in Poplar Bluff.

The 4th Annual L.O.L. (Live out Love) with Addie Shoe and Sock Giveaway will take place on Saturday, August 10th at Living Word Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff.

There will be free new and gently used shoes and socks for all ages available from 10 am to 1 pm.

For more information, visit the L.O.L with Addie Facebook page.

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.

STATE OFFICIALS URGE MOTORISTS TO BE SAFE THIS SUMMER

The summer driving season is underway and state officials are urging motorists to be cautious, patient and use good judgment when traveling, especially through work zones.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, on an average day, there are nearly 800 work zones on Missouri’s 34,000 miles of state roadways, ranging from construction on bridges, interchanges, and roads to daily maintenance work.

Officials are asking motorists to stay alert and focused when you are behind the wheel and remember to buckle up, put your phone down, and slow down.

In 2023, there were 4,563 crashes including 36 people killed in work zone crashes.

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL GOLF TEAM RECOGNIZED BY CITY COUNCIL

The Poplar Bluff High School Golf team was recently recognized by the Poplar Bluff City Council.

Mayor Shane Cornman read a proclamation honoring the golf team for their SEMO Conference Championship, District Championship, State Championship and invitation to play in the PGA High School Golf National Invitational this summer.

The proclamation was read during the City Council meeting on Monday.

DATE SET FOR FRESHMAN ORIENTATION AT POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL

Freshman orientation is set to be held in August at Poplar Bluff High School.

Officials say that orientation will begin at 8 am on Wednesday, August 14th.

Students will get to learn more about life at the High School, get their class schedule, pick up their school laptop, learn the layout of the campus, and meet their advisory class.

Students need to be enrolled by August 13th to attend and should also bring a backpack.

If you have any questions, contact the Poplar Bluff High School at 573-785-6471.

MISSOURI FROGGING SEASON TO BEGIN JUNE 30TH

The beginning of frogging season in Missouri is coming up soon.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, beginning June 30th at sunset, those with a fishing permit or small-game hunting permit may frog for bullfrogs and green frogs.

The daily limit is eight frogs of both species combined and the possession limit is 16 frogs of both species combined. Only the daily limit may be possessed on waters and banks of waters where frogging.

Children 15 years old and under and Missouri residents 65-years old and older are not required to have a permit.

Frog season will come to an end on October 31st.

For more information, visit mdc.mo.gov.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED ON MULTIPLE DATES OVER THE NEXT FEW WEEKS

Missouri state officials are reminding motorists that driver examinations will not be available on select days over the next few weeks.

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

Driver Examination Stations will also be closed on Thursday, July 4, for Independence Day.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CONSERVATION AREA TO BE TEMPORARY CLOSED THIS MONTH

A Southeast Missouri conservation area will be temporarily closed later this month.

The Missouri Department of Conservation’s Little River Conservation Area in Dunklin and Pemiscot counties will be temporarily closed from June 25 to June 27 due to entrance road construction starting ahead of schedule.

MDC Construction Administration Manager Tim Anderson tells KWOC News that the considerable size of the deliveries, the duration of the project, and ensuring safety are reasons for the temporary area-wide closure.

Little River Conservation Area is located five miles east of Kennett on Highway 412.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE UNDERWAY ON ROUTE ZZ IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route ZZ in Stoddard County will be reduced this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The section of roadway being reduced is located between U.S. Route 60 and County Road 612 near Dexter.

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

Tuesday, June 18, 2024

GATEWOOD MAN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A CRASH NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

A Gatewood man was flown from the scene of a weekend crash near Poplar Bluff.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 64 year old Carmen Yarbrough was driving on US 160 in Butler County when his vehicle began skidding and overturned.

The crash occurred shortly after 2 am Sunday morning.

Yarbrough was flown to a Memphis hospital with serious injuries.

TWO POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS PLACE IN TOP 10 OF COMPETITIONS AT ELEMENTARY BETA NATIONALS

Two Poplar Bluff Schools were very successful during the National Elementary Beta Convention last week.

Sacred Heart Catholic School placed 8th out of 74 schools in the category of create and animate.

The Poplar Bluff Middle School Quiz Bowl team competed in the national Quiz Bowl competition, where they came in seventh.

The National Elementary Beta Convention was held from June 14th through the 16th in Savannah, Georgia.

PARMA MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY ON STATUTORY SODOMY WARRANT

Authorities in New Madrid County have arrested a Parma man on a statutory sodomy warrant.

According to Missouri Case Net, Dennis Huffman, of Parma, was served the warrant on Friday.

The charge stems from an alleged incident with an individual under the age of 17.

Huffman is charged with statutory sodomy 2nd degree and was held on no bond.

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.

ROUTE AB IN STODDARD COUNTY TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK FOR BRIDGE MAINTENANCE

Route AB in Stoddard County will be reduced this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route N to Route Y near Bloomfield.

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

BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY NEAR RISCO

A bridge replacement project is scheduled to begin today in the Risco area.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route 62 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane as contractor crews perform intersection improvements and replace the bridge over Drainage Ditch 44.

The work zone is located near the intersection of Route 62 and Route 153 near Risco.

Weather permitting, work will begin this morning with completion anticipated by Friday, November 11. Crews will first widen the intersection before replacing the bridge. During bridge construction, temporary signals will be in place to help guide traffic.