Thursday, September 12, 2024

OVER 80 YEAR OLD STEAM TRAIN TO BE MAKING STOP IN POPLAR BLUFF TONIGHT

An over 80 year old Union Pacific steam train will be making a stop tonight in Poplar Bluff.

The train, named Big Boy Number 4014, will be arriving in Poplar Bluff tonight and departing at 9 am on Friday morning.

Residents will have the opportunity to view the train tonight from 5 to 7 pm at the Poplar Bluff Historic Train Depot.

The train was delivered to Union Pacific in December of 1941 and was retired in 1961. A multi year restoration process began in 2013 and the train returned to service in 2019 to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad's Completion.

The train is on the "Heartland of America Tour" which will see it travel across nine states before arriving in Texas in late October.

It had previously stopped in Poplar Bluff in August of 2021.

MALDEN MAN IN CUSTODY ON WARRANT FOR MULTIPLE SEX RELATED CRIMES

A Malden man is in custody in Dunklin County on a felony warrant.

According to the Malden Department of Public Safety, 24 year old Christopher Robinson was arrested Tuesday on a Dunklin County warrant with the charges of statutory sodomy - 2nd degree, child molestation - 2nd degree and two counts of statutory sodomy or attempted statutory sodomy - deviate sexual intercourse.

The victims in the case were under the age of 12.

Robinson is being held in custody on a $250,000 cash only bond.

THREE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI POLICE OFFICERS TO RECEIVE MEDAL OF VALOR DURING CEREMONY TODAY

Three Southeast Missouri police officers will be honored for their courage and heroism during a ceremony today.

Officers Jacob Peck, Shaun Goodwin, and Dakota Harrington, with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, will be awarded the Missouri Medal of Valor for the rescue of a 12-year-old boy from an apartment while under fire from a suicidal gunman.

Medals of Valor are given for exceptional courage and heroism in an attempt to protect or save human life.

Governor Mike Parson will also award Destiny Brant with the Public Safety Civilian Partnership Award. Brant was nominated by Matthews Volunteer Fire Department for rescuing two children trapped in a vehicle that rolled over into a flooded ditch.

The ceremony will be streamed live on the Missouri Department of Public Safety Facebook page beginning at 1:30 p.m.

COMMUNITY HEALTH AND RESOURCE FAIR SCHEDULED FOR EARLY OCTOBER IN BLOOMFIELD

The Stoddard County Public Health Center will be sponsoring a Community Health and Resource Fair in early October.

The event has been scheduled for 10 am to 1 pm on Friday, October 4th at the Bloomfield Community Center.

Some of the services being offered include flu shots and free car seat checks.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD CLOSED FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT

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

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route 25 to Route H near Bernie.

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

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD CLOSED FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT

Route D in New Madrid County will be closed for the rest of the year as contractor crews replace a bridge.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the closure is located between Route E and Route W near Catron.

Officials say that the project is anticipated to be completed by Friday, January 10. The road will remain closed while work is underway, and motorists should seek alternate routes.

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

IDENTITY RELEASED OF BODY FOUND IN BUTLER COUNTY OVER THE WEEKEND, TWO IN CUSTODY

The investigation is continuing into a body that was found over the weekend in Butler County.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News, authorities responded to the area of County Road 611 Saturday evening for the discovery of a body.

Dobbs says the case is being investigated as a homicide.

Butler County Coroner Jim Akers tells us that the victim has been identified as 32 year old Johnathan Esparza, of Poplar Bluff. Akers added that Esparza's cause of death was multiple gunshot wounds.

Dobbs says that two people have been taken into custody in connection to the investigation, 33 year old Jonathan Kimbrough and 31 year old Wanda Stevens, both of Poplar Bluff.

Dobbs added that apparently Kimbrough shot the victim multiple times in a vehicle over a situation that had occurred earlier in the day between Stevens and Esparza. The suspects then transported the body to the location it was found.

Kimbrough and Stevens are each facing charges of murder 2nd degree and armed criminal action.

Agencies involved in the investigation include the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, the Butler County Coroner’s Office, Poplar Bluff Police Department, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

REPORT OF A GUNSHOT VICTIM CAUSES TEMPORARY LOCKDOWN OF DONIPHAN SCHOOLS

A report of a gunshot victim prompted the temporary lockdown of Doniphan schools on Tuesday.

According to the Doniphan Police Department, at approximately 2:47 pm, Doniphan Police received a report of a gunshot victim on Apricot Street.

Officers advised a lockdown of Doniphan R-1 Schools until the scene was secured as a precautionary measure.

Officers confirmed the scene was secure at 3:05 pm and the lockdown was lifted.

The Doniphan R-1 School District posted on Facebook that no students were ever in direct harm.

No further details have been released.

ABORTION RIGHTS AMENDMENT TO REMAIN ON NOVEMBER BALLOT RULES MISSOURI SUPREME COURT

An amendment to restore abortion rights in Missouri will be on the ballot, the state’s Supreme Court ruled Tuesday.

The proposal to enshrine abortion rights in the constitution is expected to widely undo the state’s 2022 near-total abortion ban if passed. Judges ruled hours before the Tuesday deadline for changes to be made to the November ballot.

Supreme Court judges ordered Republican Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft to put the measure back on the ballot. He had removed it Monday following a county circuit judge’s ruling Friday.

The order also directs Ashcroft, an abortion opponent, to “take all steps necessary to ensure that it is on said ballot.”

WAYNE COUNTY MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO PRODUCING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

A Wayne County man will be sentenced in December after he admitted to producing images and videos containing child sexual abuse material for years.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 59 year old Kevin Carroll, of Patterson, has pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor.

An investigation began when deputies with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department were called to Carroll’s home for a domestic dispute and seized electronic devices containing the child sexual abuse material. Carroll admitted to producing child sexual abuse material for about four years.

As part of the plea, both sides will recommend 25 years in prison at Carroll’s sentencing, which is scheduled for December 11.

TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES IN WAYNE COUNTY

Two people were arrested on drug charges Monday in Wayne County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, at around 1 pm 35 year old Clinton Mcalister, of Piedmont and 36 year old Ashley Spradlin, of Mill Spring, were taken into custody on charges of felony possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Mcalister is also facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance - hallucinogens and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Following the arrests, both subjects were held in the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route Z in Stoddard 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 25 to Route 153 near Bernie.

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

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

FIRE CLAIMS THE LIFE OF A JUVENILE IN POPLAR BLUFF

A juvenile was found dead while firefighters were battling a fire Sunday evening in Poplar Bluff.

Chief Mike Moffitt with the Poplar Bluff Fire Department tells KWOC News that his department was notified of a structure fire shortly after 10 pm on Sunday.

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

Butler County Coroner Jim Akers says that the fire resulted in the death of a 12 year old female juvenile.

The juvenile’s name has not been released.

Moffitt added that the fire appears to be accidental and the Butler County Coroner’s Office and the State Fire Marshal's Office are investigating.

MAJOR CASE SQUAD ACTIVATED TO INVESTIGATE BODY FOUND IN BUTLER COUNTY

An investigation is ongoing into a body found over the weekend in Butler County.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News, the Major Case Squad has been activated to investigate the body located Saturday evening off of County Road 611.

Dobbs says the case is being investigated as a homicide.

Agencies involved in the investigation include the Butler County Sheriff’s Department, the Butler County Coroner’s Office, Poplar Bluff Police Department, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

POPLAR BLUFF POLICE INVESTIGATING MULTIPLE VEHICLE THEFTS FROM SUNDAY NIGHT/MONDAY MORNING

Investigations are ongoing into multiple vehicle thefts in the Poplar Bluff area.

Captain Charles Harris with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News that officers are investigating several vehicle thefts that occurred overnight Sunday night/Monday Morning.

Harris says that some of the vehicles have been recovered along with potential video evidence to aid in the investigations.

Harris added that community members should try to speak to their neighbors and assist each other in spotting criminal activities in your neighborhoods and reporting any suspicious activity to the police department.

Everyone is also encouraged to lock their vehicles and remove any keys or valuables.

THREE MEN FACING OVER A DOZEN CHARGES IN CONNECTION TO ILLEGAL KILLING OF AN ELK

Three men are facing 15 charges in connection to the investigation of a dead elk in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, in November 2023, a mature bull elk was found shot dead and left to rot near Klepzig Mill in Shannon County.

The elk was found by a 14 year old deer hunter during the opening week of firearms season.

Over the nine months of the poaching investigation, conservation agents from MDC’s Ozark, Central, St. Louis, and Southeast regions interviewed numerous deer hunters in the area along with other people passing through the area for information related to the investigation.

Officials say the investigation recently ended with three men from the Bonne Terre area being charged for multiple violations of the Wildlife Code of Missouri.

The Operation Game Thief hotline allows Missourians to report possible poaching by calling 800-392-1111. Callers may remain anonymous and may be considered for a reward.

WOMAN AIRLIFTED FROM SCENE OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE INCIDENT IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A woman was flown from the scene of a domestic violence incident last week in Northeast Arkansas.

Greene County Sheriff Brad Snyder tells KWOC News that at approximately 11 pm Thursday night, authorities responded to a call of a woman screaming for help and multiple gunshots on County Road 753.

At the scene, a woman was found lying on the ground with head trauma. The alleged male assailant was lying nearby. The suspect had allegedly been actively attacking the female when a neighbor in the area intervened and stopped the attack.

Snyder says the gun shots had come from the Good Samaritan shooting into the air in an effort to draw attention to the incident so that someone could contact the authorities.

The female victim was flown to a Memphis hospital for treatment.

32 year old Tyler O’Neal, of Paragould, was taken into custody for felony domestic battery 2nd degree.

He is being held in the Greene County Detention Center on a $50,000 bond.

PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TODAY TO DISCUSS UPGRADING ROUTE 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY

The Missouri Department of Transportation will hold a public hearing today to discuss phases 3 and 4 of the multi-phase project to upgrade U.S Route 67 in Butler County.

Proposed plans for constructing a roundabout at Routes C and V and Route 160 will also be shared.

The hearing will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Neelyville Schools cafeteria.

Phase 3 of the U.S. 67 project includes future access at Neelyville and upgrading an approximately five-mile section of U.S. 67 to four lanes from County Road 352 to near County Road 272.

Phase 4 includes upgrading the last three-mile section of U.S. 67 to reach the Missouri/Arkansas state line. Right of way and easements will be acquired for this project.

During the meeting, construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Routes C and V and Route 160 in Butler County will be discussed. This intersection is located west of the Route 160/158 interchange south of Poplar Bluff.

The public hearing will be open house style, and visitors can stop-by anytime between 4 and 7 p.m. to discuss the details of the proposals with the project team.

Monday, September 9, 2024

ARCHERY DEER AND TURKEY SEASON BEGINS THIS WEEKEND IN MISSOURI

The Archery portion of both deer and turkey seasons begin this weekend in Missouri and the Missouri Department of Conservation is encouraging hunters to be safe.

The initial archery season will run from September 15th through November 15th for both deer and turkey.

Hunters are reminded that only one antlered deer may be taken before the November Firearms Portion of deer season and only two antlered deer may be taken during the archery and firearms deer hunting seasons combined.

For turkeys, two turkeys of either sex may be taken during the archery and firearms portions combined.

During archery season, hunters can use longbows, compound bows, and recurve bows of any draw weight, crossbows, and hand-held string-releasing devices, among other devices.

Additional regulations are available at mdc.mo.gov.

DRUGS AND GUNS FOUND DURING STOLEN BIKE INVESTIGATION, TWO PEOPLE IN CUSTODY

Two people have been arrested after guns and drugs were found during an investigation into a stolen bike.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Office, on September 4th, they received information that a stolen dirt bike may be located in the county.

At the scene, officers located multiple suspects outside a residence and observed the stolen dirt bike to be present. The dirt bike was confirmed to be stolen out of Cape Girardeau County.

Officers also saw a handgun with what appeared to be a homemade suppressor and a 3-D printed gun frame. Two suspects were detained and a search warrant was granted for two residences.

During the search, officers located approximately 61 grams of methamphetamine, multiple firearms, drug paraphernalia with packaging supplies, and a 3-D printer that was used for manufacturing illegal firearms.

34 year old David Wilburn, of Matthews was arrested for distribution of controlled substances, unlawful possession of an illegal firearm, and five counts of unlawful use of a firearm.

31 year old Tatyana Wheatley, of Dexter, was taken into custody for distribution of controlled substances and felony stealing.

Their bonds were each set at $50,000.

SIKESTON PROFESSIONAL FIRE FIGHTING ASSOCIATION TO HOST 8TH ANNUAL 9/11 MEMORIAL WALK

All area first responders are being invited to attend a memorial walk for 9/11 this weekend.

The Sikeston Professional Fire Fighting Association is hosting the 8th Annual 9/11 Memorial Walk on Saturday, September 14th at 9 am. The walk will begin at Fire Station 2 on North Main Street and proceed down Main Street to the Lowes parking lot, where there will be an emergency vehicle truck rally.

Any emergency service agency wanting to participate is asked to call Sergeant James Whiteley at 573-380-3251.

3RD ANNUAL ERIC SIMMONS MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND

The 3rd annual Eric Simmons Memorial Golf Tournament has been scheduled for this weekend.

The four person scramble tournament, hosted by FosterAdopt Connect in Poplar Bluff, will begin at 12:30 pm on September 14th at the Ozark Ridge Golf Course.

It is $260 per team to sign up. More information is available on the FosterAdopt Connect Poplar Bluff Facebook Page.

ALMOST TWO MONTH LONG REPAIR PROJECT BEGINS TODAY IN STODDARD AND DUNKLIN COUNTIES

Route 25 in Stoddard and Dunklin Counties will be reduced to one lane for almost two months beginning today as contractor crews perform pavement repairs. 

According to MoDOT, the section of roadway being reduced is located from County Road 672 in Stoddard County to Gasconade Street in Malden.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, November 1, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN THE MALDEN AREA

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

Officials say the work zone will be located between U.S. Route 62 and Route 153 near Malden.

Weather permitting, work is scheduled for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today.

Friday, September 6, 2024

DONIPHAN DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER TO BE TEMPORARILY CLOSED

The state and federal Disaster Recovery Center in Doniphan will be temporarily closed beginning tomorrow.

According to officials at FEMA, the DRC at the Ripley County Caring Community Partnership building, will temporarily close on Saturday at 4 p.m. The center will then reopen at that location from September 16th through the 20th.

DRCs are one-stop shops for disaster survivors who have applied for FEMA assistance and need to provide additional documentation or have questions about the status of their cases.

In addition to FEMA staff, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will be on hand to help survivors apply for low-interest disaster loans to help fund recovery efforts.

More information is available at Fema.gov.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOST BATTLE OF THE BULLS THIS WEEKEND

Rodeo action will be returning to Poplar Bluff this weekend.

The Three Rivers College Rodeo Team is hosting the 2nd Annual Battle of the Bulls on Saturday at Ray Clinton Park.

The event will begin at 7 pm featuring bull riding and barrel racing.

There will also be activities for kids and food trucks available at the park.

The cost to attend is $15 for adults and $10 for kids ages eight and under.

More information is available at trcc.edu/events.

PATRIOT DAY REMEMBRANCE EVENT TO BE HELD IN POPLAR BLUFF

Area community members will be gathering in Poplar Bluff this weekend to remember the heroes lost on 9/11.

A Patriot Day Remembrance event will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 am on Saturday, September 7th at the American Legion Post #153 on Kanell Boulevard in Poplar Bluff.

There will be a 9/11 commemoration, lunch, and a guest speaker as a part of the event. The speaker will be Cindy Owens, former CEO of the American Red Cross.

Organizers say that all veterans, first responders, and the entire Poplar Bluff community are welcome to join.

POKER RUN TO BENEFIT FOSTER ADOPT CONNECT SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

A Poker Run has been scheduled for this weekend to benefit an area organization.

The Glory Days Second Annual Poker Run is set to begin at noon on Saturday at Glory Days Bar and Grill in Poplar Bluff. Registration starts at 11 am, and the cost to register is $10 plus a package of diapers, underwear, or socks.

The event is being held to benefit FosterAdopt Connect.

For more information, call 573-772-2512.

DEADLINE IS TODAY TO PURCHASE TAGS FOR BULKY ITEM PICKUP

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

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

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

Today is the final day to purchase item tags at City Hall to be included in next week’s pick up, which will be conducted on Tuesday, September 10th.

GUARDRAIL REPAIRS TO FORCE REDUCTION OF SOUTHBOUND INTERSTATE 55

Southbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction so contractor crews can perform guardrail repairs. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the work zone is located from mile marker 18.8 to mile marker 17.2 near Hayti.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Thursday, September 12.

ROAD CREWS TO BE WORKING ON ROUTE HH NEAR MATTHEWS TODAY

Route HH in New Madrid County will be reduced today as contractor crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The section of roadway being reduced is located between Route 61 and County Road 613 near Matthews.

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

Thursday, September 5, 2024

CLASSES CANCELED AT NORTHEAST ARKANSAS SCHOOL DUE TO LANDMINE THREAT ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Classes were not held yesterday at a Northeast Arkansas school due to a threat on social media.

According to a post on the Maynard School District Facebook page from Tuesday night, a threat was made on social media regarding a landmine on the school campus.

School officials say that out of an abundance of caution due to the threat, there would be no school on Wednesday.

Officials say that multiple law enforcement agencies conducted a complete and thorough sweep of the school and determined that there was no danger to the district.

Law enforcement is continuing to investigate the threat made through social media and school will resume today.

SEMO DRUG TASK FORCE INVESTIGATION LEADS TO THE ARREST OF THREE PEOPLE

A months-long investigation in Southeast Missouri has led to the arrest of three people.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, on Tuesday officers with the SEMO Drug Task Force, New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, and New Madrid Police Department were able to locate three suspects with federal indictments from the investigation.

41 year old Michael Bush, and 36 year old Bryan Nelson, both of Lilbourn, were each arrested on a federal warrant for felon in possession of a firearm. 54 year old Thomas Phillips Jr., also of Lilbourn, was arrested on a federal warrant for methamphetamine distribution and drug user in possession of a firearm.

Officials say that all three were taken into custody without incident and held at the Mississippi County Jail pending transfer to a federal holding facility.

Further indictments from the investigation are expected.

RUN 4 THE ARTS SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY

The 9th annual Run 4 the Arts, hosted by Three Rivers College, is coming up this weekend.

The four-mile run or walk, along with a one-mile walk, will be held at 8 am on Saturday at the College’s Poplar Bluff Campus. The course will begin and end in front of the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

All funds from the event will go to benefit Three Rivers fine arts scholarships.

For more information, contact Three Rivers College Director of Development Michelle Reynolds at 573-840-9077.

SEVEN PEOPLE KILLED IN MISSOURI TRAFFIC CRASHES DURING HOLIDAY WEEKEND

Seven people were killed in traffic crashes in Missouri during the Labor Day holiday weekend.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, troopers worked 233 traffic crashes, which included 115 injuries and seven fatalities.

This year, troopers also made 108 DWI arrests over the holiday weekend.

Troopers also investigated three boating crashes, which included eight injuries and two fatalities. One person also drowned over the holiday weekend. The two fatalities and the drowning occurred in the Jefferson City area.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN THE CAMPBELL AREA

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

The section of roadway being reduced is located from County Road 222 to Tucker Road near Campbell.

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

CREWS TO BE WORKING TODAY ON US ROUTE 61

U.S. Route 61 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform roadside work.

The work zone is located in New Madrid between Mill Street and Bloomfield Road.

Work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., weather permitting.

Wednesday, September 4, 2024

ALMOST 16 INCHES OF RAIN RECORDED IN POPLAR BLUFF DURING SUMMER MONTHS

Rainfall totals were above normal this summer in several southeast Missouri communities, including Poplar Bluff.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, the three highest totals of precipitation in Southeast Missouri during the summer season were 18.6 inches in southeastern Wayne County, 15.95 inches in Poplar Bluff, and 15.57 inches in Northern Ripley County.

The summer season runs from June 1st through August 31st and officials say that the normal summer season precipitation ranges are from 10 to 12 inches.

Poplar Bluff was also slightly warmer overall this summer, with the average temperature of 78.2 degrees being two tenths of a degree warmer than the normal value.

STODDARD COUNTY FAIR SET FOR LATE SEPTEMBER

The schedule has been announced for the 97th Stoddard County Fair.

The fair will kick-off with the parade in downtown Dexter on Tuesday, September 17th at 5:30 pm.

There will be multiple nights of entertainment and events including performances by The Assembly Youth Workshop and Saturn Cowboys along with exhibitions by the Robinson Chainsaw Carvers and Magic Mike the Magician.

Other events include the livestock auction, demo derby, and rodeo.

For more information, including the full schedule, go to www.stoddardcountyfair.com.

MANAGED WATERFOWL RESERVATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED

The Missouri Department of Conservation is accepting reservations for managed waterfowl hunts.

The MDC offers managed waterfowl hunting on more than a dozen conservation areas specially managed with a focus on wetlands. Hunters can apply for a reservation or participate in a daily morning drawing for opportunities to hunt at these areas. MDC also offers waterfowl hunting in other conservation areas.

The pre-season reservation period will run through September 18th with the results being posted on October 1st.

Missouri residents and qualifying non-residents, such as students from out of state or members of the military stationed in Missouri, can apply online for a reservation to guarantee them an opportunity to hunt on a specific day in a specific area.

Residents and nonresidents can also arrive at a managed waterfowl hunting area the morning they wish to hunt and wait in line for the possibility of getting a hunting spot.

Applicants for waterfowl reservations must have their required permits to apply, and their Federal Duck Stamp to hunt.

For more information, or to apply, visit mdc.mo.gov.

TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE FOR KEYNOTE SPEAKER SESSION AT 37TH ANNUAL WOMEN AWARE CONFERENCE

Tickets are still available for anyone who wants to see the keynote speaker for the 37th Annual Women Aware Conference in Poplar Bluff.

Organizers say that tickets are sold out for the conference, which will be held from 8 am to 4:30 pm on Thursday, September 19th at the Black River Coliseum.

However, tickets are still available for the keynote speaker session featuring Elizabeth Smart.

Smart is an activist and advocate for missing persons and abduction survivors as well as a New York Times best selling author.

For more information visit WomenAwareInc.com.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

U.S. Route 62 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 between Route OO and the Arkansas State line.

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

CREWS TO BE WORKING ON ROUTE D IN NEW MADRID COUNTY THIS WEEK

Route D in New Madrid County is being reduced to one lane this week so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform roadside work.

Officials say that the work zone is located from U.S. Route 61 to County Road 506 near Howardville.

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

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

FIRE DESTROYS BUSINESS IN POPLAR BLUFF

Crews responded to a Poplar Bluff business on Monday for a fire.

According to officials, a structure fire was reported at Croy’s Perfect Press early Monday morning.

Fire crews quickly responded to the scene and found the structure fully involved.

Authorities say the business was destroyed with smoke damage also impacting a few adjoining businesses.

There were no injuries reported in connection to the fire.

MAN WANTED OUT OF WISCONSIN FOR INTENTIONAL HOMICIDE ARRESTED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A man wanted for intentional homicide out of Wisconsin has been arrested in Southeast Missouri.

According to the New Madrid Police Department, during the overnight hours of August 29th, they received information from the Missouri State Highway Patrol that a wanted person may be at a residence in New Madrid.

Officers responded to an apartment on Blades Drive and located the subject, identified as 22 year old Daishon Brown.

Brown has an arrest warrant out of the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area charging him with First Degree Intentional Homicide and First Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety by Use of a Dangerous Weapon.

Officials say that Brown was arrested without incident and transported to the Mississippi County Jail.

CURRENT RIVER CLEANUP SET FOR SEPTEMBER 14

AmeriCorps Senior and the Community Resource Council will be hosting a clean-up of Current River for the National Day of Service on Saturday, September 14th.

The event will be from 10 am to 3 pm, spanning from Watercress Spring to Big Spring.

There will also be food and prizes as a part of the event as well.

For more information, call 573-686-8624.

PIEDMONT MAN INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

A Piedmont man was injured in a single vehicle crash on Sunday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Dustin Cole was driving on Route HH, in Wayne County, when his vehicle ran off the side of the roadway, struck several road signs, and then struck a tree.

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

CREWS TO CLOSE PART OF STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TODAY FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT

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

The work zone is located from County Road 527 to County Road 541 near Bloomfield.

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

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN CAMPBELL AREA

Route B 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 Bailey Street to County Road 311 near Campbell.

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

Friday, August 30, 2024

MULES FOOTBALL KICKS OFF REGULAR SEASON TONIGHT AGAINST VALLEY VIEW

The Poplar Bluff Mules Football team is looking to get the 2024 football season off to a great start tonight against Valley View High School, from Jonesboro, Arkansas.

The Mules will host the Blazers tonight at Poplar Bluff High School, with kickoff set for 7 pm. It will be the first game for each team this season. The teams also met last year with Valley View picking up a 26-14 win in Jonesboro.

The Mules went 5-4 in the regular season last year before falling to Farmington in the Class 5, District 1 Semi-Finals. Valley View finished the 2023 campaign with a 10-2 record, with their season coming to an end in the Arkansas Class 5A State Quarterfinals.

Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM will be providing live coverage of the game tonight with the kick-off show beginning at 6:20 pm. KWOC is also providing video coverage at the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page and the River Radio Youtube page.

DEADLINE APPROACHING TO APPLY FOR FEDERAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE FROM MAY STORMS

Missourians who were affected by storms earlier this year are running out of time to apply for federal disaster assistance.

According to FEMA, residents in 10 counties impacted by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding between May 19th and May 27th have until September 23 to get their application filed.

The assistance, under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program, is available to eligible homeowners, renters and self-employed business owners in Butler, Carter, New Madrid, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Barry, Howell, and Texas counties.

You can register online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or by downloading the FEMA app.

Further help is also available at FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers, which are available in Doniphan and Sikeston. Officials say that the Dexter DRC will cease operations at 6 pm tonight.

MISSOURI HIGHLANDS HEALTHCARE HOSTS COMMUNITY CARES DAY TODAY AT POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY

Missouri Highlands Healthcare in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a Community Cares Day today to raise awareness for International Overdose Awareness day.

The event will be held from 10 am to 1 pm at the Poplar Bluff Library on North Main Street.

Attendees will be able to learn about Narcan and also receive a free kit to help prevent overdoses.

There will also be medication lock boxes and disposal packs to safely store and dispose of medications.

The event will also feature a food bank and box fan giveaway.

For more information, call 573-604-1378.

R.W. HUNTINGTON POOL TO CLOSE FOR THE SEASON THIS WEEKEND

A popular Poplar Bluff attraction will be closing for the season after this weekend.

Officials with Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation tell KWOC News that time is running out for swimmers to enjoy the R.W. Huntington Pool this season.

The last day the pool will be open is Sunday, September 1st.

AREA LAW ENFORCEMENT PARTICIPATING IN DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER CAMPAIGN

Area law enforcement agencies are reminding everyone to not drink and drive while celebrating Labor Day.

Law enforcement agencies across Missouri and Arkansas are participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement through September 2nd.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, during the 2022 Labor Day Holiday period, there were 490 crash fatalities nationwide.

Of these 490 traffic crash fatalities, 39 percent involved a drunk driver, and a quarter involved drivers who were driving with a BAC almost twice the legal limit. Among drivers between the ages of 18 and 34 who were killed in crashes over the Labor Day holiday in 2022, 47% of those drivers were drunk, with BACs of .08 or higher.

Officials say that drivers should be safe during this Labor Day holiday by planning ahead if they intend to drink.

CREWS TO BE WORKING ON INTERSTATE 55 IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Southbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction through the middle of the week as contractor crews perform guardrail repairs. 

The work zone is located from mile marker 11 to mile marker 13.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Wednesday, September 4th.

Thursday, August 29, 2024

MAN SHOT WEDNESDAY MORNING IN POPLAR BLUFF

A man was shot in the leg early Wednesday morning in Poplar Bluff.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Mike McClain tells KWOC news that at approximately 1:15 am Wednesday, officers responded to a residence on Mangold Street in reference to a shooting.

At the scene, the homeowner directed them to a male in the backyard of the residence, who was suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg.

The man who was shot, 46 year old Jason Knuckles, of Poplar Bluff, was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

An investigation into the incident determined that Knuckles had allegedly entered the fenced in backyard and when confronted became aggressive and approached the homeowner.

The homeowner shot Knuckles and then called 911.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Mike McClain tells KWOC News that following discussions with the Butler County Prosecutor’s Office, no charges are being sought against the homeowner at this time.

It was not released if any charges will be pursued against Knuckles.

MAN IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO DEATH OF AN INFANT IN MOREHOUSE

A man is facing multiple charges in connection to an investigation into the death of an infant in New Madrid County.

According to Sheriff Ronnie Adams, deputies were dispatched to a residence in Morehouse on Sunday for a report of a three month old child not breathing.

Deputies and EMS responded to the scene and found the infant deceased.

Adams says that an investigation is ongoing, however an autopsy concluded that there was no trauma leading to the death.

During the investigation, deputies seized a marijuana grow operation including 56 plants in various stages of growth inside the residence.

The father of the child, Zachary Scott Murphy, was located on Monday. He has been arrested on charges of endangering the welfare of a child first degree with death of a child, manufacturing a controlled substance, and three counts of endangering the welfare of a child first degree by creating substantial risk.

His bond has been set at $50,000.

SHOOTING FROM MONDAY IN POPLAR BLUFF POSSIBLY SELF-INFLICTED

Updating a story we have been following for you this week, a shooting from Monday in Poplar Bluff may have been self-inflicted.

Lieutenant Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News an individual was discovered Monday in the 1800 block of South Broadway after suffering a single gunshot wound to the leg.

The victim, identified as 23 year old Michael Hart Jr., of Poplar Bluff, was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

Stewart says that Hart has since become uncooperative and indicated to investigators that he would not assist with prosecution. During the investigation, it was discovered Hart was in possession of a handgun and disposed of that firearm prior to his contact with law enforcement. That firearm was later recovered.

Stewart added that it appears the shooting may have been accidental and self-inflicted.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH NEAR FAIRDEALING

One man was injured during a single vehicle crash Tuesday evening in Ripley County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 41 year old Charles Cunningham, of Naylor, was driving on Highway 160 when his vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway and overturned.

The crash occurred shortly after 5 pm Tuesday, two miles west of Fairdealing.

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

OVERDOSE AWARENESS EVENT SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY

Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health in Poplar Bluff will be hosting an overdose awareness event this weekend.

The event will be held from 10 am to 5:30 pm this Saturday at the Westwood Event Center. There will be speakers, educational materials, and resources, along with a free lunch.

For more information, call 573-686-5090.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Eastbound Route 114 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route AH to Route CC near Grayridge.

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

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

JUVENILE INJURED DURING FIRE IN POPLAR BLUFF

A juvenile was injured on Tuesday during a residence fire in Poplar Bluff.

According to officials, at around 2:30 pm Tuesday, crews were dispatched to 1503 Grand Avenue for a structure fire.

KWOC News has confirmed that a juvenile was flown to a St. Louis hospital following the fire.

The home had significant damage and the Missouri State Fire Marshal's Office has been notified for the investigation.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOST BATTLE OF THE BULLS NEXT MONTH

Rodeo action will be returning to Poplar Bluff next month.

The Three Rivers College Rodeo Team is hosting the 2nd Annual Battle of the Bulls on September 7th at Ray Clinton Park.

The event will begin at 7 pm featuring bull riding and barrel racing.

There will also be activities for kids and food trucks available at the park.

The cost to attend is $15 for adults and $10 for kids ages eight and under.

More information is available at trcc.edu/events.

TWO INJURED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY CRASH

Two people were injured in a crash Tuesday morning in Dunklin County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash was located on Route J, three miles west of Malden, where 21 year old Jonathan Eggert, of Dexter, reportedly failed to yield to a vehicle while making a left hand turn.

The driver of the second vehicle, 29 year old Alana Smith, of Malden, suffered serious injuries in the crash and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

Eggert received minor injuries and was taken to a Dexter hospital.

TRACK RESURFACING PROJECTS UNDERWAY AT POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS

Crews will be working over the next couple of weeks to resurface the tracks at Poplar Bluff Schools.

Poplar Bluff Athletic Director Kent Keith tells KWOC news that work will be done through Friday of this week for the resurfacing of the Junior High School track.

Crews will then move to the high school to work on that track next week from September 3rd through the 6th.

Keith is asking the community for their cooperation in honoring these closures.

MODOT CREWS WILL BE WORKING ON ROUTE AA TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route AA in Butler County will be reduced today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

According to officials, the work zone will be located between Route 51 and Route B.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8:00 a.m. to 4 p.m.

CONCRETE REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY IN GREENVILLE AREA

Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction as contractor crews perform concrete repairs. 

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Business Route 67 to Route A near Greeneville.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Tuesday, September 10. The work zone will be in place 24 hours a day until the work is completed.

Tuesday, August 27, 2024

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING SHOOTING IN POPLAR BLUFF

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are investigating a shooting report.

Few details have been released, however Poplar Bluff Police Chief Mike McClane has confirmed that an individual suffered a single gunshot wound to the leg and the injury appears to not be life threatening.

The victim was discovered in the 1600 block of Missouri Avenue and transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

McClane says that the investigation is open and ongoing.

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

BICYCLIST STRUCK BY A VEHICLE ON HIGHWAY 53 IN BUTLER COUNTY

A bicyclist was struck by a vehicle Sunday evening in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 66 year old Edward Reed was riding the bike on Highway 53, half a mile south of Poplar Bluff, when he reportedly pulled into the path of a vehicle.

Reed suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

JENNIFER TAYLOR STEPS INTO NEW ROLE AS ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OF PERSONNEL

Finishing our series on new administrators in the Poplar Bluff School District, we are now focusing on a new face in the R-1 personnel department.

Jennifer Taylor was hired by the Board of Education in February as assistant superintendent of personnel.

Taylor says she is a believer in shared leadership, which is why she took the call to fill the vacancy in the cabinet left by her predecessor, Mike Owen, now superintendent at a neighboring district.

Her career with Poplar Bluff Schools began in 1998 as a first grade teacher at the former Mark Twain Elementary School. Before her latest promotion, Taylor served as principal of Eugene Field Elementary since 2009.

In 2021, Eugene Field was one of only two schools in the state, both in Poplar Bluff, to be named National ESEA Distinguished Schools out of 1,300 Title 1 educational institutions. The next year Eugene Field was listed at No. 8 in U.S. News & World Report’s ‘Best Elementary Schools’ out of over 1,000 ranked across Missouri.

In 2022, the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals named Taylor one of only 11 Distinguished Principal Honorees statewide.

CHICAGO MAN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A CRASH IN GREENVILLE

A Chicago man was flown from the scene of a crash Sunday afternoon in Southeast Missouri.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC news that the crash occurred shortly after 3 pm when a vehicle driven by 25 year old Jose Xol Coy, of Chicago, Illinois, struck the back of a freightliner on US Highway 67 in Greenville.

Xol Coy received serious injuries in the crash and was transported by air to a St. Louis hospital.

GUARDRAIL REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN WAYNE COUNTY

Southbound Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction for the rest of this week so contractor crews can perform guardrail repairs. 

The section of Route 67 involved with the project is located in the area of County Road 303.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday.

TREE TRIMMING TO CAUSE DELAYS THIS WEEK ON ROUTE 61

U.S. Route 61 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews trim the trees along the roadway.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from I-55 to County Road 506 in New Madrid.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day.

Monday, August 26, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF CITY CLERK LORI PHELPS APPOINTED INTERIM CITY MANAGER

A new city manager has been appointed for the City of Poplar Bluff.

According to city officials, on Thursday the city council unanimously appointed City Clerk and Treasurer Lori Phelps to be the interim City Manager, effective September 20th.

Phelps began her career with the City of Poplar Bluff in March of 2008 as a secretary to the City Manager and City Clerk. She was then appointed Deputy City Clerk in May of 2012 and was appointed City Clerk and Treasurer in July of 2022.

Phelps will take over for departing city manager Matt Winters who submitted his resignation earlier this month to take the city administrator position in Jackson.

CREWS TO REDUCE ROUTE H IN BUTLER COUNTY THIS MORNING

Route H in Butler County will be reduced this morning so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located between Route HH and County Road 260.

Weather permitting, crews will be working this morning from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.

OVER 80 YEAR OLD STEAM TRAIN TO BE MAKING STOP IN POPLAR BLUFF NEXT MONTH

An over 80 year old Union Pacific steam train will be making a stop next month in Poplar Bluff.

The train, named Big Boy Number 4014, will be in Poplar Bluff on the morning of Friday, September 13th before its departure at 9 am.

The train was delivered to Union Pacific in December of 1941 and was retired in 1961. A multi year restoration process began in 2013 and the train returned to service in 2019 to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad's Completion.

The train will depart on the "Heartland of America Tour" on Wednesday, Aug. 28 from Cheyenne, Wyoming, and travel across eight additional states before arriving in Texas. The eight-week tour concludes in late October.

The train had previously stopped in Poplar Bluff in August of 2021.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY ON ROUTE HH IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route HH in Butler County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway is located from County Road 342 to County Road 251.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

AMANDA SUMMERS TO SERVE AS POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER PRINCIPAL

Continuing our series on new administrators in the Poplar Bluff School District we now focus on the Early Childhood Center.

Amanda Summers will serve this year as principal of the Early Childhood Center, succeeding JoAnne Westbrook, who retired after directing the program for nearly 20 years starting at the former Kinyon building.

In 2006, Summers became a teacher at Oak Grove Elementary, the same school she attended as a young girl.

The majority of Summers’ career has been spent at the Kindergarten Center, teaching in the classroom for eight years, then serving as a reading interventionist for three.

She earned her master’s degree in elementary administration from William Woods University in Fulton in 2010, and her bachelor’s in elementary and early childhood education from Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau.

In addition to leading the building, Summers has been appointed to take over Westbrook’s district-wide duties as Title 1 director. While Summers admitted she has much to learn regarding federal reporting, she noted that she has an aptitude for organization, and has been fortunate to receive training on the various guidelines from Westbrook during the transition.

HIGHWAY PATROL URGES SAFETY FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND

With Labor Day weekend almost here, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is urging everyone to be safe during the holiday weekend.

The Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. over the Labor Day holiday weekend.

Troopers will be patrolling Missouri’s roadways, enforcing Missouri’s speed limit, seat belt, and impaired driving laws, in addition to being available to assist motorists.

Last year, 15 people were killed and 477 were injured in Missouri over the Labor Day holiday weekend in 1,058 traffic crashes. Also, 125 people were arrested by the Highway Patrol for driving while intoxicated.

The Labor Day holiday is also a busy boating weekend. In 2023, there were 12 boating crashes which included three people being injured.

Friday, August 23, 2024

WELLS RETAINS PRIMARY WIN FOLLOWING RECOUNT

Larry Wells has secured the Republican nomination for Butler County Western District Commissioner.

Butler County Clerk Donna Hill tells KWOC News that a recount was held Thursday for the race after Wells won the primary earlier this month by only two votes over his nearest challenger, Kenny Barker.

The results stayed exactly the same following the recount with Wells winning with 666 votes cast in his favor.

FOOTBALL JAMBOREE TONIGHT IN FESTUS

We are a week away from the official start of the high school football season in Southeast Missouri which means it is time for the annual jamboree.

The Poplar Bluff Mules will be traveling north this year for the Festus Jamboree. In addition to Festus, the Mules will also play Farmington and Seckman.

The kick off is scheduled for 6 pm tonight and every Poplar Bluff snap will be carried live on Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM as well as on the KWOC Facebook page and River Radio Youtube page starting at 5:45 pm.

10TH ANNUAL RIDE FOR A CURE TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY

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

Registration for the event will begin at 10 am on Saturday 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.

REDMAN EAST CAMPGROUND TO REOPEN NEXT WEEK

A popular area campground will be reopening to the public next week.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake tell KWOC News that the Grand Re-Opening of Redman East Campground is scheduled for Thursday, August 28.

Officials say that the campground has been closed due to renovations, including a new shower facility, new utilities at each site, site expansion and leveling, road widening, and more.

Many of the sites have been expanded to accommodate larger RVs that are commonly used by the recreating public in the campground.

A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at 9 am on the 28th, followed by a period where the campground will be open for drive throughs by the public, until noon.

Visitors with camping reservations are welcomed to set up starting at noon.

Once re-opened, the campground will remain in operation

through Wednesday, November 6 when it closes for the season.

NEW POPLAR BLUFF KINDERGARTEN PRINCIPAL CHRISTY YOUNG TALKS ABOUT HER PLANS FOR THIS YEAR

Continuing our series on new administrators in the Poplar Bluff School District, we now focus on the new leader of the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center, Christy Young.

Entering the 19th year of her tenure, Young was hired in February by the Board of Education to succeed Jessica Thurston as principal of the Kindergarten Center.

This year, the Kindergarten Center will be adding eight new staff members, with several being teachers along with a building secretary and a nurse, plus there are a few more certified retirements anticipated next year.

Assembling a newer team, Young says she plans to lead a reboot of the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports system, “taking it back to tier one, training staff from the ground up,” she said, as well as orchestrating a boot camp for students in order to model expectations.

Young split summer school duties in June with Thurston in order to become acquainted with the building. The two happened to have co-taught together back when Young’s career began at O’Neal Elementary.

MODOT CREWS TO CAUSE DELAYS ON ROUTE B IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Route B in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane for a week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from County Road 314 to Route BB near Holcomb.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Thursday, August 29.

Thursday, August 22, 2024

DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER OPENS IN DONIPHAN

A joint Disaster Recovery Center is now available in Doniphan.

The center is located in the Ripley County Caring Community Partnership building at 209 West Highway Street. It will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. until further notice.

Homeowners, renters and self-employed business owners in 10 Missouri counties who were impacted by the May 19th through 27th severe storms, tornadoes and flooding can visit any of the three centers in Southeast Missouri for one-on-one help, regardless of where they live. Services at the centers are free.

The 10 counties are: Butler, Carter, New Madrid, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Barry, Howell, and Texas.

DRCs are a one-stop shop for disaster survivors who have applied with FEMA and need to present additional documentation or just have questions about the status of their cases.

Survivors are encouraged to apply with FEMA before visiting a DRC to get the process going as quickly as possible. For those who need help to apply, DRC staff can assist survivors on the spot. For those who are blind or low-vision, or Deaf or hard-of-hearing, assistive devices are available at the centers as well.

More information is available at www.DisasterAssistance.gov.

MAN RECEIVES MULTIPLE DECADE SENTENCE IN CONNECTION TO BUTLER COUNTY MURDER

A man will be spending multiple decades behind bars in connection to a fatal 2018 shooting in Butler County.

James Odell Johnson pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin and one count of conspiracy to possess and discharge a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

He admitted shooting a man in Poplar Bluff at the behest of Shanesha “Nikki” Burns in connection with a heroin distribution conspiracy. The victim’s body was discovered on May 20, 2018.

Johnson lured the victim to the home with drugs supplied by Burns and James Michael Cohen, and then invited the victim to a rural area to go shooting. When the victims’ gun jammed, Johnson shot him with his own 9mm handgun. Johnson was later arrested with murder weapon.

On Tuesday, Johnson was sentenced to 20 years in prison, which will run consecutive to a 10-year term that he received for a 2018 case in which he shot a Poplar Bluff police detective in the arm.

ALL MEMBERS OF MARBLE HILL POLICE DEPARTMENT HAVE RESIGNED

The Bollinger County Sheriff’s Department is working with officials in Marble Hill following the announced departures of the city’s police officers.

Bollinger County Sheriff Casey Graham tells KWOC News that on Monday, his office was informed that all members of the Marble Hill Police Department submitted their resignations to the Marble Hill City Council, effective this Friday.

Sheriff Graham says that his office is in communication with city officials to address the situation and he is confident that they can negotiate a resolution to ensure that law enforcement services will continue to be provided to the city.

No information was provided on what prompted the resignations.

KWOC News has reached out to Marble Hill City Officials but have not received a response.

We will continue to follow this story for you and bring you updates as they become available.

FOUR SCHOOLS SET TO START TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

School opening week in Southeast Missouri will be wrapping up today with at least four more schools welcoming back students.

Naylor, Puxico, Ripley County R-3, and Ripley County R-4 are all beginning their school years today.

With most schools having started, motorists are again reminded to be mindful of increased traffic on roadways as well as an increase in student drivers.

TRAIN STRIKES BACKHOE IN HAYTI, ONE DEAD

A Caruthersville man has died after a vehicle he was driving was struck by a train Tuesday afternoon.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Thomas Jackson was driving a backhoe on Gettings Lane, in Hayti, at around 3:30 pm when he failed to yield to the train and was hit.

Jackson was pronounced dead at the scene by Pemiscot County Coroner Brian Irions.

KRISTEN SPAIN TAKES OVER AS PRINCIPAL OF EUGENE FIELD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Continuing our series on new administrators in the Poplar Bluff School system, today we look at Eugene Field Elementary.

According to school officials, Kristen Spain was named the Eugene Field Teacher of the Year April, after receiving nominations by her building twice prior. She is now succeeding Jennifer Taylor as principal for the school beginning this school year.

A Van Buren native, Spain’s career with the Poplar Bluff School District began in 2008 as a second grade teacher at Oak Grove, fresh out of college, having earned her bachelor’s in elementary education from Central Methodist University in Fayette that year.

Spain served as an interventionist for the past two years, before which she was employed as a third grade teacher, following a year as a district-wide virtual instructor for first graders, after spending the previous five teaching the grade span.

Going forward, she says she wants to "instill in teachers that we all have gifts, you just have to find what your talent is."

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SIKESTON FIRE

Two people were seriously injured in an early morning fire.

According to Sergeant Tyler Rowe with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, early Wednesday morning officers responded to the 300 block of Kramer Street for a structure fire.

Officers were able to force an exterior door open and could hear someone calling for help from inside the residence. Fire Division Personnel arrived on scene and immediately began searching for the occupants.

Two victims were located and successfully rescued from inside the residence. The two individuals sustained serious injuries and are currently in stable condition at area hospitals.

Rowe says that the cause of the fire is currently under investigation with the assistance of the State Fire Marshal's Office.

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

ARMED STANDOFF ENDS PEACEFULLY AT NORTHEAST ARKANSAS GAS STATION

A confrontation with an armed man ended peacefully Monday at a Northeast Arkansas business.

According to Randolph County Sheriff Kevin Bell, the incident began at around 1:30 am Monday morning. Deputies were called to assist Pocahontas Police with an armed suspect who had allegedly fired one round at a gas station in Pocahontas.

A standoff ensued and officers were eventually able to talk the suspect into surrendering.

The suspect, identified as 42 year old Jared Forward, of Newton, Texas, was arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance, aggravated assault upon a certified law enforcement officer or an employee of a correctional facility, and discharging a firearm in city limits.

Forward was held in the Randolph County jail on no bond.

11 MORE SCHOOLS STARTING THE YEAR TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Students in at least 11 more Southeast Missouri school districts will be starting their classes today as Missouri school opening week continues.

Doniphan will be starting their school year today, as will Dexter, Advance, Charleston, and Bloomfield.

School opening week will wrap up for the most part on Thursday, as Naylor, Puxico, Ripley County R-3, and Ripley County R-4 all welcome back students.

MAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL AFTER STRIKING A BRIDGE NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

A man was transported to a regional hospital after he ran into a bridge Monday evening.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 55 year old David Kirk, of Harviell, was driving on Highway 158 when his vehicle failed to yield to another vehicle, ran off the side of the roadway, and struck a bridge.

Kirk’s vehicle then landed in a ditch.

Kirk was flown to a Memphis hospital with serious injuries. No injuries were listed for the driver of the second vehicle.

SHELLY RIDENS TAKES OVER LEADERSHIP OF O’NEAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Poplar Bluff native Shelly Ridens is using her over two decades of experience to lead O’Neal Elementary School.

Ridens, who spent the past three years as assistant principal at the Middle School, was hired by the Board of Education in January to succeed Dr. Amy Dill as principal of O’Neal.

Before joining the administrative ranks, Ridens served as a reading interventionist at the Middle School for three years, following five years as a fifth grade teacher. Her career in Poplar Bluff began in 2007 at the former 5th & 6th Grade Center. After a couple of years, she transferred to Oak Grove Elementary to teach fourth grade.

At O’Neal, Ridens said she plans to set expectations and common language through the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports program so she can focus on curriculum, a subject she has taught on the side at Three Rivers through the community college’s articulation agreement with Hannibal-LaGrange University.

For the past two years, Ridens has served as the district’s St. Jude Math-A-Thon coordinator, a fundraising effort that began at O’Neal in 1989. Last school year, the district raised over $38,000 for the children’s research hospital, bringing the district’s grand total to nearly $1.25 million.

PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED TO DISCUSS UPGRADING ROUTE 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY

The Missouri Department of Transportation will hold a public hearing to discuss phases 3 and 4 of the multi-phase project to upgrade U.S Route 67 in Butler County.

Proposed plans for constructing a roundabout at Routes C and V and Route 160 will also be shared.

The hearing will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 10th, at the Neelyville Schools cafeteria.

Phase 3 of the U.S. 67 project includes future access at Neelyville and upgrading an approximately five-mile section of U.S. 67 to four lanes from County Road 352 to near County Road 272.

Phase 4 includes upgrading the last three-mile section of U.S. 67 to reach the Missouri/Arkansas state line. Right of way and easements will be acquired for this project.

During the meeting, construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Routes C and V and Route 160 in Butler County will be discussed. This intersection is located west of the Route 160/158 interchange south of Poplar Bluff.

The public hearing will be open house style, and visitors can stop-by anytime between 4 and 7 p.m. to discuss the details of the proposals with the project team.

BRIDGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY ON INTERSTATE 55

Southbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

The work zone is located between mile markers 63.2 and 62.4.

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

Tuesday, August 20, 2024

AT LEAST 24 MORE SCHOOLS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI TO BEGIN SCHOOL YEAR TODAY

School opening week in Southeast Missouri continues today with at least 24 more schools welcoming back students.

The school year will begin today for kids in the Twin Rivers, Neelyville, Malden, Sikeston, Holcomb, East Carter, and Clearwater school districts, among others.

At least 11 more schools will start on Wednesday, including Doniphan, Dexter, Advance, and Bloomfield.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS CRASH RESULTS IN ONE DEATH

A Rector man has died from injuries he received in a two vehicle crash on Sunday.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 44 year old Austin Dollar was driving on US Highway 49 when his vehicle was struck from behind as he tried to pull onto the shoulder.

Dollar’s vehicle then ran into a ditch.

Officials say that Dollar suffered fatal injuries in the crash. A juvenile passenger in the other vehicle was transported to an area hospital for injuries.

ADVANCE MAN IN CUSTODY ON CHILD MOLESTATION CHARGE

Authorities in Stoddard County have taken an Advance man into custody on a child molestation charge.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office, 27 year old Ethan Baggett was recently arrested on a Stoddard County warrant for child molestation - 2nd degree.

During an interview with authorities, Baggett allegedly admitted to inappropriate contact with a young child.

Baggett was held in the Stoddard County Jail on no bond.

ONE INJURY REPORTED AFTER BOAT COLLISION ON CURRENT RIVER

A Doniphan man was injured in a boat collision over the weekend in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred at around 11:30 am Saturday on Current River, three miles north of Doniphan, when a vessel crossed into the path of another vessel.

A passenger in the first boat suffered minor injuries, while two people on the second boat were ejected. No injuries were reported by the people who were ejected.

CONCRETE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS THROUGH MID SEPTEMBER IN WAYNE COUNTY

Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction as contractor crews perform concrete repairs. 

The section of roadway being reduced is located between County Road 213 and Route K.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Tuesday, September 10. The work zone will be in place 24 hours a day until the work is completed.

PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THROUGH EARLY NOVEMBER

Route HH in Pemiscot County will be closed for over two months so contractor crews can replace the No. 85 Drainage Ditch.

The ditch is located between Route 153 and County Road 282 near Wardell.

Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by Tuesday, November 5. The road will remain closed as work is underway, and motorists should seek alternate routes.

Monday August 19, 2024

DONIPHAN MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH 

A Doniphan man has died following a single vehicle crash Saturday afternoon in Ripley County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 35 year old Joseph St. Cin was driving on Route U, south of Doniphan, when his vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway and overturned. 

St. Cin, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected during the wreck. He was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

MANY SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SCHOOLS TO RETURN TO CLASS TODAY 

Numerous schools around Southeast Missouri are set to return to classes today.  

At least 20 area school districts will hold their first day of school today, including Poplar Bluff, Bernie, Campbell, Clarkton, Greenville, Kennett, Sacred Heart, Shady Grove State School, and Westwood Baptist Academy. We have a full list of Missouri school’s opening today on our website. 

Three Rivers College will also be having the first day of classes for the Fall Semester today. 

More area school districts will begin classes on Tuesday, including Twin Rivers, Neelyville, and Malden.

KWOC wants to wish all parents, students, teachers, and staff a fantastic new school year!!!

MOTORISTS ASKED TO WATCH FOR STUDENTS ON THE ROADWAYS 

With students returning to school this week in Missouri, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to watch for students.  

Drivers should expect a change in traffic patterns ─ school buses and parents taking their children to school and many young drivers will join other motorists on the road and affect the morning and afternoon commute. Also expect an increase in pedestrian and bicycle traffic.  

Missouri law states that on a two-lane road, if a school bus is stopped and displaying warning signals while loading or unloading children, drivers must stop when meeting and following the bus. However, it is only necessary to stop on a four-lane highway when following the bus. 

Drivers, when you see a stopped school bus, stay alert and follow the law. Children may not be aware of traffic and dart unexpectedly into the roadway. 

Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about riding a bus, walking, or driving to school in a safe manner. If they ride a bike, please make sure they wear a helmet and follow traffic laws.

CONCRETE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS BEGINNING TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY 

Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction as contractor crews perform concrete repairs.  

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route F to Route FF near Greeneville.  

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Tuesday, September 10, from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The work zone will be in place 24 hours a day until the work is completed.

RECOUNT TO BE HELD FOR BUTLER COUNTY WESTERN DISTRICT COMMISSIONER RACE 

A Butler County judge has ordered a recount for the Republican nomination for the county’s Western District Commissioner position. 

According to Butler County Clerk Donna Hillis, the recount will be held on Thursday August 22nd at 9 am.

Only two votes separated Larry Wells and Kenny Barker following the primary on August 6th, with Wells winning by a vote of 666 to 664.

10TH ANNUAL RIDE FOR A CURE TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY 

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

Registration for the event will begin at 10 am on Saturday 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.

PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR 33RD ANNUAL OLD GREENVILLE DAYS 

Preparations are underway for the 33rd Annual Old Greenville Days. 

According to the Wappapello Lake US Army Corps of Engineers, the annual event has been scheduled for September 21st and 22nd at the Greenville Recreation Area. 

Officials say the event will include arts, crafts, history, and music. 

For more information, contact the Wappapello Lake Management office by calling 573-222-8562.

Friday August 16, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF MULES FOOTBALL SCRIMMAGE SET FOR THIS WEEKEND 

The Poplar Bluff Mules football team will be kicking off the fall season this week. 

The Maroon vs White Gatorade game will be held Saturday at 7 pm at Poplar Bluff High School. Poplar Bluff Athletics Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that admission is one bottle of Gatorade or other sports drink. 

Today’s Talk KWOC will be covering the scrimmage live Saturday beginning at 6:45 pm on the KWOC Facebook page and the River Radio YouTube channel.

MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD HAS REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS BEFORE THE SCHOOL YEAR STARTS 

The new school year is coming up in Southeast Missouri and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is reminding parents to make sure that their children have the required immunizations. 

Children attending kindergarten through 12th grade are required to have the following immunizations or booster shots: DtaP, IPV, Hepatitis B, MMR, and Varicella. 

8th through 12th grade students are also required to have the Tdap and MCV immunizations. 

For more information you can go online to www.health.mo.gov/immunizations or contact your local public health agency.

DATE SET FOR POPLAR BLUFF HISTORIC TRAIN DEPOT PANCAKE BREAKFAST 

A date has been announced for the Poplar Bluff Historic Train Depot breakfast fundraiser. 

Pancakes will be served from 7:30 am to 11 am on Saturday, September 28th at the Train Depot. 

Tickets are $7 per person and all proceeds will go towards the renovation of the Poplar Bluff Historic Train Depot.

DUCK BLIND DRAWING AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE SET FOR THIS WEEKEND 

The annual duck blind drawing at Wappapello Lake is coming up this weekend. 

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers the drawing and registration will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, at the Bill Emerson Memorial Visitors Center. 

The registration fee is $15 and applicants are asked to use a credit or debit card. 

Permitted duck blinds may be placed on the lake after Labor Day and must be removed from the lake, or transferred to a permitted storage cove, within two weeks of the closure of the zoned duck season. 

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

RUN 4 THE ARTS SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER 7TH

A date has been set for the 9th annual Run 4 the Arts hosted by Three Rivers College. 

The four-mile run or walk, along with a one-mile walk, will be held at 8 am on Saturday, September 7th at the College’s Poplar Bluff Campus. The course will begin and end in front of the Tinnin Fine Arts Center. 

All funds from the event will go to benefit Three Rivers fine arts scholarships. 

For more information, contact Three Rivers Director of Development Michelle Reynolds at 573-840-9077.

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

Ladies can have a fun night out in November and raise money for the kids at St. Jude. 

Poplar Bluff Heroes will be presenting Ladies Night Out and Designer Handbag Bingo at the Black River Coliseum on Friday, November 8th. Social Hour will begin at 5 pm, with the event starting at 6 pm. 

Organizers say that there will be dinner and prizes in addition to crafts, vendors, music, and more. 

Tickets can be purchased online at Eventbrite.com. 

All proceeds from the event will go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Thursday August 15, 2024

STRONG TO SEVERE STORMS POSSIBLE THIS EVENING OVER SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

Strong to severe thunderstorms will be possible this evening in Southeast Missouri. 

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, a good chance of thunderstorms is forecast for southeast Missouri this evening and overnight. 

A few strong to severe storms with mainly a damaging wind threat will be possible, with locally heavy rainfall and lightning also being primary concerns. 

In addition to possible severe weather, high temperatures are forecast to reach the mid 90’s and will combine with high humidity to yield peak heat index values from 105 to 110 across a large portion of the region this afternoon. 

Remember to take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning and drink plenty of water to replenish lost fluids. Also remember to never leave a child or a pet in a hot vehicle, even for a short period of time.

PARENTS AND STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO REPORT SCHOOL SAFETY CONCERNS 

With schools restarting, state officials are reminding school personnel, parents, and students to report safety concerns. 

According to Colonel Eric Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Courage2Report Missouri program provides a safe and confidential way to report any concerns regarding school safety.

Olsen says that there are several ways to submit a report, including the Courage2Report mobile app, online at mshp.dps.missouri.gov, or by calling 866-748-7047. 

Those reporting their concerns may remain anonymous by not providing their name.

CREWS WORKING THIS WEEK ON ROUTE 153 IN PEMISCOT COUNTY 

Route 153 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction for the rest of this week as contractor crews perform guardrail repairs.   

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

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

DEXTER WOMAN FACING METH RELATED CHARGE 

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

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 60 year old Connie Lemons was taken into custody Tuesday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine. 

Lemons is also facing charges of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and fail to maintain right half of the roadway resulting in an accident.

MULTI-MONTH ROAD PROJECT UNDERWAY ON INTERSTATE 55 

Northbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot and New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction over multiple months as contractor crews mill the roadway.  

The work zone is located from mile marker 26.2 near Portageville, Missouri to mile marker 50.4 near New Madrid. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Friday, November 8. 

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.