Tuesday, October 29, 2024

MISSOURI CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT 3 WOULD REMOVE THE STATE’S BAN ON ABORTIONS

Continuing our look at constitutional amendments that will be decided in Missouri during the general election, we turn to abortion.

Missouri Constitutional Amendment 3 would establish a constitutional right to make decisions about reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives, with any governmental interference of that right presumed invalid.

The amendment also removes Missouri's ban on abortion; allows regulation of reproductive health care to improve or maintain the health of the patient; and requires the government not to discriminate, in government programs, funding, and other activities, against persons providing or obtaining reproductive health care.

The amendment also allows abortion to be restricted or banned after fetal viability except to protect the life or health of the woman.

BUTLER COUNTY CLERK DONNA HILLIS TALKS ABOUT VOTING AHEAD OF THE ELECTION

Election Day is only a week away and Butler County officials are wanting residents to be prepared when they come to vote.

KWOC News spoke with Butler County Clerk Donna Hillis about what you should do when you arrive to vote.

“You can speed up the process by having your Missouri Photo ID ready. You will not be able to cast your vote in the tabulator without a non-expired Missouri Driver’s License, a Missouri non-driver’s license, a passport, or a military ID.

If you are registered to vote in Butler County but you still have an out of state driver’s license, you will only be permitted to vote provisionally. If you want to cast your vote in the tabulator, you must go to the DMV and get your license taken care of before next Tuesday.

Please be aware that electioneering laws prohibit people from wearing anything that displays a political party, candidate name, or ballot issue, which includes shirts, hats, buttons and stickers.

You will not be allowed inside the precinct or within 25 feet of the polling place wearing this type of attire. We do not expect any problems at the polls in Butler County, but be advised that law enforcement will be available to each of the precincts should the need arise. Acts of violence, or attempting to keep any voter from voting will not be tolerated.

Among other offenses, the Missouri Law states that it is unlawful to engage in or threaten any act of violence at a polling place. Please respect others' right to vote the way they want, and move on. Engaging in disorderly conduct, violence, or threats is considered interfering with election processes.

We are asking everyone to be kind and be respectful to all of the poll workers at the precincts. It will be a tough day for each of them. They are committed to helping each person navigate the lines, and guide people through the process so please be courteous.

If you have any problems or questions, please call the Clerk's Office at 573-686-8050.”

KWOC will be providing live election coverage during the night of November 5th on the KWOC Facebook page.

STATE SUPREME COURT RACE TO BE DECIDED IN ARKANSAS

When Arkansas voters head to the polls next week, they will be deciding on who will be sitting on the state Supreme Court.

Karen Baker and Rhonda Wood are running to fill position 1 on the Arkansas State Supreme Court.

Voters will also be electing a state treasurer between John Pagan, John Thurston, and Michael Pakko.

You can find the KWOC Voters guide online at KWOC.com.

MULES FOOTBALL TEAM TRAVELS TO FARMINGTON ON FRIDAY FOR DISTRICT QUARTERFINALS

The Poplar Bluff Mules football team will begin the district playoffs this week in Farmington.

The Mules earned the six seed in the Class 5, District 1 football tournament and will be traveling to Farmington on Friday to take on the three seed Knights in the District Quarterfinals.

Friday’s game will be a rematch of last year’s District Semifinal which saw the five seed Knights upset the top seed Mules 28-21.

When the two teams met earlier this year in Poplar Bluff, Farmington picked up a close 36-33 win.

Live audio coverage of the Mules District Playoffs will be provided by Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM.

Live video coverage will be available for $10 plus fees at MSHSAA.tv.

TWIN RIVERS AMONG MULTIPLE SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SCHOOLS TO RECEIVE GRANT MONEY TO RECRUIT LOCAL EDUCATORS

Twin Rivers R-X School District in Butler County was one of several schools across Southeast Missouri to receive grant money to recruit local educators.

Officials with the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education tell KWOC News that the agency was able to award Grow Your Own grants to 125 local education agencies.

The one-time grants of $10,000 to local education agencies are to be used to create or strengthen their local Grow Your Own program, designed to increase recruitment of quality teachers across the state.

In addition to Twin Rivers, other schools in Southeast Missouri to be selected for the grant include Bloomfield, Campbell, Clearwater, and Van Buren.

SUPPORT GROUP ESTABLISHED FOR FOSTER AND ADOPTIVE PARENTS IN POPLAR BLUFF

A support group has been established in Poplar Bluff for foster and adoptive parents.

Trisha Lambert with FosterAdopt Connect tells KWOC News that the group will meet at 6 pm on the 1st Monday of each month at the FosterAdopt Connect Poplar Bluff office.

The group is free for parents to attend and will offer a safe place for them to discuss being a foster or adoptive parent.

Lambert says that they are asking for parents to not bring their children, as conversations can involve heavy subjects at times.

For more information, call 573-552-4338.

Monday, October 28, 2024

MISSOURI CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT 2 WOULD ALLOW SPORTS BETTING IN THE STATE

Beginning our look at constitutional amendments that will be decided in Missouri during the general election, we start with sports betting.

Missouri Constitutional Amendment Number 2 asks Missourians if they want to amend the constitution to permit licensed sports wagering regulated by the Missouri Gaming Commission and restrict sports betting to individuals physically located in the state and over the age of 21.

The amendment also includes a 10 percent wagering tax on revenues received to be appropriated for educational institutions in Missouri.

MISSOURI VOTERS TO ELECT NEW GOVERNOR

Missouri voters will be electing a new Governor next week.

The frontrunners for the Governor’s race are Mike Kehoe and Crystal Quade. Current Governor Mike Parson is term limited and cannot run again.

Voters will also be deciding races for Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, State Treasurer, and Attorney General.

At the polls, state residents will also decide if two Missouri Supreme Court judges and two Court of Appeals judges will be retained in office.

You can find the KWOC Voters guide online at KWOC.com.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES FOLLOWING ALLEGED DOG SHOOTING

A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody on multiple charges in connection to an alleged dog shooting.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on Thursday officers responded to a residence on Dewey Street in reference to a report of shots fired.

It was determined that a resident had shot a canine on the property without due cause and while being intoxicated.

55 year old Raymond Morris was arrested for unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful use of a weapon, and animal abuse.

ARREST MADE IN SIKESTON SHOOTING

An arrest has been made in connection to a shooting in Sikeston.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, during the late evening hours of October 21st, Sikeston DPS was alerted to several gunshots in the 800 block of West Gladys. When officers arrived on scene, they were informed a subject had been injured from the gun fire.

Detectives were able to identify and arrest 30 year old Demarlon Richardson, of Sikeston, as one of the shooters from that night. Richardson is being held on a No Bond warrant for felony charges of unlawful use of weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Sergeant Tyler Rowe with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety says that the incident is still being actively investigated by the Criminal Investigations Unit. Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Sikeston DPS at 573-471-4711.

DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED EARLY THIS WEEK

Route PP in Dunklin County will be closed early this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The closure is located between Route 164 and County Road 735 in Rives.

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

ALMOST SIX MONTH LONG ROAD CLOSURE TO BEGIN TODAY NEAR SENATH

Route A in Dunklin County will be closed for almost six months so contractor crews can replace a box culvert.

The work zone is located between County Road 525 and County Road 526 near Senath.

Work will begin this morning with completion anticipated by Monday, April 21st. Officials say that the road will remain closed 24 hours a day.

KWOC 2024 General Election Voters Guide

Federal Government:

United States President/Vice President

Donald Trump/JD Vance -

Kamala Harris/Tim Walz -

United States Senator - Missouri

Josh Hawley -

Lucas Kunce -

W.C. Young -

Jared Young -

Nathan Kline -

United States Representative - Missouri District 8

Jason Smith -

Randi McCallian -

Jake Dawson -

United States Representative - Arkansas District 1

Steve Parsons -

Rodney Govens -

Rick Crawford -

Missouri State:

Missouri Constitutional Amendments and Propositions:

Constitutional Amendment No. 2: Do you want to amend the Missouri Constitution to: allow the Missouri Gaming Commission to regulate licensed sports wagering including online sports betting, gambling boats, professional sports betting districts and mobile licenses to sports betting operators; restrict sports betting to individuals physically located in the state and over the age of 21; allow license fees prescribed by the Commission and a 10% wagering tax on revenues received to be appropriated for education after expenses incurred by the Commission and required funding of the Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund; and allow for the general assembly to enact laws consistent with this amendment?

Yes -

No -

Constitutional Amendment No. 3: Do you want to amend the Missouri Constitution to: establish a right to make decisions about reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives, with any governmental interference of that right presumed invalid; remove Missouri’s ban on abortion; allow regulation of reproductive health care to improve or maintain the health of the patient; require the government not to discriminate, in government programs, funding, and other activities, against persons providing or obtaining reproductive health care; and allow abortion to be restricted or banned after Fetal Viability except to protect the life or health of the woman?

Yes -

No -

Constitutional Amendment No. 5: Do you want to amend the Missouri Constitution to: allow the Missouri Gaming Commission to issue one additional gambling boat license to operate on the portion of the Osage River from the Missouri River to the Bagnell Dam; require the prescribed location shall include artificial spaces that contain water and are within 500 feet of the 100-year base flood elevation as established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency; and require all state revenues derived from the issuance of the gambling boat license shall be appropriated to early-childhood literacy programs in public institutions of elementary education?

Yes -

No -

Constitutional Amendment No. 6: Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to provide that the administration of justice shall include the levying of costs and fees to support salaries and benefits for certain current and former law enforcement personnel?

Yes -

No -

Constitutional Amendment No. 7: Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to: Make the Constitution consistent with state law by only allowing citizens of the United States to vote; Prohibit the ranking of candidates by limiting voters to a single vote per candidate or issue; and Require the plurality winner of a political party primary to be the single candidate at a general election?

Yes -

No -

Proposition A: Do you want to amend Missouri law to: increase minimum wage January 1, 2025 to $13.75 per hour, increasing $1.25 per hour each year until 2026, when the minimum wage would be $15.00 per hour; adjust minimum wage based on changes in the Consumer Price Index each January beginning in 2027; require all employers to provide one hour of paid sick leave for every thirty hours worked; allow the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations to provide oversight and enforcement; and exempt governmental entities, political subdivisions, school districts and education institutions?

Yes -

No -

Governor

Mike Kehoe -

Crystal Quade -

Bill Slantz -

Paul Lehmann -

Lieutenant Governor

Dave Wasinger -

Richard Brown -

Ken Iverson -

Danielle (Dani) Elliott -

Secretary Of State

Denny Hoskins -

Barbara Phifer -

Carl Herman Freese -

Jerome Bauer -

State Treasurer

Vivek Malek -

Mark Osmack -

John A. Hartwig, Jr. -

Reagan Haase -

Attorney General

Andrew Bailey -

Elad Jonathan Gross -

Ryan L. Munro -

Missouri Supreme Court:

Shall Judge Kelly C. Broniec of the Missouri Supreme Court be retained in office?

Yes -

No -

Shall Judge Ginger K. Gooch of the Missouri Supreme Court be retained in office?

Yes -

No -

Missouri Court of Appeals Judge, Southern District:

Shall Judge Becky J.W. Borthwick of the Southern District Court of Appeals be retained in office?

Yes -

No -

Shall Judge Jennifer R. Growcock of the Southern District Court of Appeals be retained in office?

Yes -

No -

Missouri State Senator - 25th District

Jason Bean -

Chuck Banks -

Missouri State Representative- 144th District

Tony R Harbison -

Andrew J. Eye -

Missouri State Representative- 150th District

Cameron Bunting Parker -

Kay Collier -

Missouri State Representative- 151st District

Steve W Jordan -

Donnie Lynn Hovis Jr. -

Missouri State Representative- 153rd District

Keith Elliott -

Sheila Bristol -

Arkansas State:

Arkansas Constitutional Amendments:

Issue No. 1: A Constitutional Amendment to Provide that Lottery Proceeds May Be Used to Fund or Provide Scholarships and Grants to Arkansas Citizens Enrolled in Vocational-Technical Schools and Technical Institutes.

For -

Against -

Issue No. 2: An amendment requiring local voter approval in a countywide special election for certain new casino licenses and repealing authority to issue a casino license in Pope County, Arkansas.

For -

Against -

State Treasurer

John Pagan -

John Thurston -

Michael Pakko -

State Supreme Court Chief Justice Position 1

Karen Baker -

Rhonda Wood -

Butler County:

County Commissioner - Eastern District

Ralph Stucker -

Van L. Rhodes -

Public Administrator

Jeff Darnell -

Amy Kopf -

Carter County:

Carter County Question - Shall the County of Carter exempt senior citizens aged 62 and older from increases in the property tax liability due on such senior citizen's primary residence?

Yes -

No -

Pemiscot County:

Commissioner of the County Commission District - 1st District

David Greer -

Noble Nelson -

City of Hayti Proposition for Mosquito Suppression and Control: Shall the Board of Aldermen of the City of Hayti, Missouri be authorized to increase the mosquito suppression and control assessment imposed upon each water bill issued by the City of Hayti from the current assessment of Fifty Cents ($.50) per month to an assessment of Two Dollars ($2.00) per month?

Yes -

No -

Ripley County:

Public Administrator

Donna Barnett -

Mary Dean Gray -

Ripley County Question: “Shall Ripley County levy a tax rate of thirty-six cents on each one hundred dollars valuation for road and bridge purposes, subject to the dissolution of all Special Road Districts within the County?”

Yes -

No -

Friday, October 25, 2025

PROPOSAL TO REDUCE PINE STREET IN POPLAR BLUFF TO TWO LANES WITH A TURN LANE RUNS INTO OPPOSITION FROM LOCAL LEADERS

A proposal to reduce Pine Street in Poplar Bluff is being met with opposition from city leaders.

The proposal from the Missouri Department of Transportation calls for changing Pine Street from a four lane road to a three lane road including a center turning lane.

Poplar Bluff Fire Chief Mike Moffitt tells KWOC News that he is not in favor of the change. He believes if MoDOT forces this change that traffic will be grid locked during peak times. Fire, Police, and EMS responses during these times will also be delayed due to the traffic. He feels like it would create a safety issue for motorists traveling on Business 60 as well as emergency responders.

Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce President Steve Halter tells KWOC News that the community has concerns that the project may not effectively reduce accidents as predicted by MoDOT.

Halter says ”Given these concerns, I respectfully ask that MoDOT reconsider the new configuration. If the project moves forward, we recommend establishing a clear timeline with specific metrics for accident reduction and traffic flow improvement, which should be communicated to all community partners as well as the general public. If these metrics are not met within the specified timeframe, we urge MoDOT to revert to the original design.”

Halter added that he received a call from MoDOT District Engineer Mark Croarkin who was open to the community’s concerns. Croarkin plans to revisit the issue before any final decisions are made.

MoDOT officials tell KWOC News that within the coming week they are hoping that information will be made available on their website to help educate and inform the public about the proposed project.

DEXTER MAN IN CUSTODY ON STATUTORY RAPE WARRANT

Officials in Stoddard County have arrested an area man on a statutory rape warrant.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 35 year old Gentry Jackson, of Dexter, has been taken into custody on a Stoddard County warrant for 2nd degree statutory rape and two counts of 2nd degree statutory sodomy.

During an interview with authorities, Jackson reportedly admitted to having inappropriate contact with a juvenile multiple times.

Jackson was held in custody on a $50,000 cash only bond.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

A Poplar Bluff man was injured Wednesday afternoon in a single vehicle crash.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 19 year old Austin Shepherd was driving an ATV on Butler County Road 459 when the vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned.

Shepherd, who was not wearing a safety device, was flown to a St. Louis hospital with serious injuries.

DONATIONS FOR HURRICANE VICTIMS TO BE ACCEPTED AT RIVER RADIO IN POPLAR BLUFF

Area residents who want to donate items to help victims of the recent hurricane in North Carolina will have an opportunity to drop off items here at River Radio this weekend.

Lee Wright and the Poplar Bluff Knights of Columbus will be accepting items, including new coats, gloves, sleeping bags, little green propane canisters, and small propane heaters, from 10 am to 6 pm today and from noon to 5 pm on Sunday.

Organizers are asking that people not bring water, clothes, diapers, food, or paper products as those items were already collected and taken on a previous trip.

If you are not able to make it to the drop off times, you can still take items to the Knights of Columbus Hall and tell them it is for Lee Wright.

PUBLIC HEARING TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH IN BUTLER COUNTY TO DISCUSS BLOCK GRANTS

A public hearing has been scheduled for next month concerning proposed block grants in Butler County.

The County will host a public hearing beginning at around 8 a.m. on November 13th, at the Butler County Courthouse to discuss the city's submission of an application for a Community Development Block Grant.

The city is discussing the submission of at least five potential applications for the program.

For more information, contact County Clerk Donna Hillis at 573-686-8050.

$100,000 LOTTERY TICKET SOLD IN MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

An Arkansas resident is $100,000 richer thanks to a scratchers ticket he purchased in the Missouri Bootheel.

The lucky winner purchased the winning extreme cash scratchers ticket at a business in Cardwell.

The winner says he thought he was looking at the ticket wrong when it said he won $100,000.

Once he was certain his eyes were not playing tricks on him, he quickly tucked the ticket away for safekeeping.

Thursday, October 24, 2024

ENTRIES NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR 2024 RIVER RADIO LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE

Parade lights will be shining bright in Downtown Poplar Bluff this December for the 2024 River Radio Lighted Christmas Parade.

Entries are now being accepted for the parade, which is scheduled for 6 pm on Friday, December 6th. Entry forms are available on our Facebook page and website. The deadline for entries is November 30th.

The parade route this year will run from Highway 142 at McDonalds through downtown Poplar Bluff before looping back and ending at the Black River Coliseum.

Trophies will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places. For more information, call 573-785-0881.

MAN SENTENCED IN RIPLEY COUNTY ON MULTIPLE COUNTS OF CHILD MOLESTATION AND STATUTORY SODOMY

A man was sentenced earlier this week in Ripley County on multiple counts of child molestation and statutory sodomy.

According to the Ripley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Ricky Lee Thurman, of Greenville, was convicted by a jury in August on three counts of child molestation in the second degree and one count of statutory sodomy in the first degree.

On Monday, Thurman was sentenced to a total of 45 years in prison on the four counts.

Ripley County Prosecuting Attorney, Matthew Michel, tells KWOC News that the sentences are the maximum number of years allowed by Missouri statute.

INVESTIGATION CONTINUES INTO OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING IN BUTLER COUNTY

Authorities are continuing to investigate an officer involved shooting in Butler County.

According to Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, one suspect died in the shooting Tuesday afternoon on US Highway 67, near the PP Highway overpass.

The suspect has been involved in a pursuit prior to the shooting and allegedly fired his gun towards officers.

The pursuit was possibly connected to an armed robbery on Tuesday at a business near the state line in southern Ripley County.

The suspect’s name has not been released.

MAN ARRESTED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY ON NUMEROUS CHARGES

A man was taken into custody Wednesday in New Madrid County on numerous charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Jonathan Higgins, of East Prairie, was arrested at around 10:30 am on charges of felony possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine, four counts of felony forgery, felony resisting arrest, false impersonation, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Higgins also had warrants out of Scott and New Madrid Counties.

Following the arrest, he was held at the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Office.

FIVE PUBLIC MEETINGS SCHEDULED TO DISCUSS POPLAR BLUFF COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

A series of meetings will be held over the next few weeks to discuss the city of Poplar Bluff’s Comprehensive Plan.

The first meeting will be held tonight beginning at 6:30 pm at O’Neal Elementary School.

Additional meetings have been scheduled for 7 pm on October 29th at Eugene Field Elementary School, 10 am on October 30th at the Twin Towers, noon on November 6th at the Black River Coliseum, and 6 pm on November 7th at the Wheatley School.

The Poplar Bluff Comprehensive Plan Survey is still available and you can find a link on the City of Poplar Bluff City Hall Facebook page.

HUNTER EDUCATION CLASSES TO BE HELD IN MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

Hunter education classes will be held this weekend in the Missouri Bootheel.

A Hunter Education Skills Session has been scheduled from 6 to 10 pm on Friday at the Pemiscot County Vocational Center. Another session will be held from noon to 3 pm on Saturday.

Students must be 11 years of age or older to attend and have completed the Knowledge Portion of the Hunter Education course before attending.

Student manuals can be found on the Missouri Department of Conservation’s website or at any MDC office.

A link to preregister is available at mdc.mo.gov.

Wednesday October 23, 2024

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING NEAR POPLAR BLUFF 

One person is dead following an officer involved shooting near Poplar Bluff. 

Sergeant Clark Parrott with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tells KWOC News, a robbery had occurred in Ripley County on Tuesday afternoon. Officers with the Poplar Bluff Police Department located the suspect vehicle on Highway M near Highway 67. A pursuit ensued and the vehicle wrecked on Highway 67 near PP Highway. The suspect allegedly fired his gun towards officers. The suspect was shot during the incident. 

Sergeant Parrott added the suspect succumbed to his injuries late Tuesday evening. The investigation is being conducted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control. At this time no names are being released. 

KWOC News will continue to provide more updates as they become available.

ONE DEAD, ANOTHER SERIOUSLY INJURED FOLLOWING CRASH NEAR CLARKTON 

A crash Monday afternoon near Clarkton resulted in the death of an area man and seriously injured another. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Seth Calder, of Clarkton was driving his vehicle on Highway 25, two miles north of Clarkton, when his vehicle crossed the center line and struck another vehicle head on. 

Calder, who was not wearing a safety device, was transported to a Piggott, Arkansas hospital where he was pronounced dead. The driver of the second vehicle was airlifted to a Memphis hospital with serious injuries.

TRC STUDENT LEADERSHIP ACADEMY TRUNK OR TREAT SET FOR OCTOBER 26 

The Three Rivers College Student Leadership Academy has announced the date for their annual Halloween Trunk or Treat. 

The event is scheduled for 6 to 8 pm on Saturday, October 26th in the parking lot of the Tinnin Fine Arts Center. 

Organizers say that there will be free candy available for little trick or treaters along with a lot of fun. 

More information is available at trcc.edu/events.

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

Ladies can have a fun night out next month 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.

AREA LAW ENFORCEMENT TO HOST DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT THIS WEEKEND 

Southeast Missouri residents will have a chance to safely dispose of their unused, unwanted, or expired prescription drugs this weekend. 

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

Organizations who will be participating include the Poplar Bluff, Doniphan, Malden, and Pocahontas Police Departments. You can find a drop off location in your area by going to DeaTakeBack.com.

DATES ANNOUNCED FOR 32nd ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AUTO TOUR 

Officials with the US Army Corps of Engineers have announced the dates for the 2024 Festival of Lights Auto Tour. 

The 32nd Annual Auto Tour will be held at the Redman Creek East Campground from November 29th through December 25th. 

This event is being held in partnership with the Wappapello Lake Area Association and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It is supported by businesses, volunteers, churches, organizations, and the community. 

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

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY IN KENNETT 

Route 412 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction for over a week as construction crews perform pavement repairs.  

The work zone is located from County Road 729 to First Street in Kennett.  

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Friday, November 1. 

Tuesday October 22, 2024

NO EXCUSE ABSENTEE VOTING OPENS FOR UPCOMING ELECTION 

Missouri voters no longer need a reason for submitting an absentee ballot. 

No excuse absentee voting begins today for the General Election, which is scheduled for Tuesday, November 5th. 

An absentee ballot can be requested from your local election authority. 

November’s general election will feature the race for the White House, as well as local and statewide races, including several Missouri constitutional amendments. 

Butler County Clerk Donna Hillis tells KWOC News that the Butler County Clerk’s office will be open during the lunch hour through Election Day.  

More information is available at sos.mo.gov.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOST JOB FAIR TODAY 

Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a job fair today. 

The event is scheduled for 10 am to 1 pm at the Crisp Technology Center on the TRC Poplar Bluff campus. 

Over a dozen employers are signed up to be involved in the fair, with some conducting on-site interviews. 

More information is available at trcc.edu.

DONATIONS FOR HURRICANE VICTIMS TO BE ACCEPTED AT RIVER RADIO IN POPLAR BLUFF 

Area residents who want to donate items to help victims of the recent hurricane in North Carolina will have an opportunity to drop off items here at River Radio this month. 

Lee Wright and the Poplar Bluff Knights of Columbus will be accepting items, including new coats, gloves, sleeping bags, little green propane canisters, and small propane heaters, from 10 am to 6 pm on October 25th and from noon to 5 pm on October 27th. 

Organizers are asking that people not bring water, clothes, diapers, food, or paper products as those items were already collected and taken on a previous trip. 

If you are not able to make it to the drop off times, you can still take items to the Knights of Columbus Hall and tell them it is for Lee Wright.

NEELYVILLE AND CHAFFEE TO PLAY TODAY FOR DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP 

A trip to the state softball tournament is on the line today in Chaffee. 

Number two seed Chaffee will be hosting top seed Neelyville today in the Class 2, District 1 championship game.  

First pitch is scheduled for 4:30 pm. 

The Championship game will be broadcast live on Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM as well as at KWOC.com. A video feed of the game will be available to purchase at MSHSAA.TV.

THIS WEEK IS NATIONAL SCHOOL BUS SAFETY WEEK 

This week is National School Bus Safety Week and parents are being encouraged to make sure their kids are safe around school buses. 

When your kids are waiting for the school bus, have them wait in a location where the driver can see them while driving down the street. 

Warn children that if they drop something getting on and off the bus, they should never pick it up. Instead, they should tell the driver and follow the driver’s instructions. 

If you meet your child at the bus stop after school, wait on the side where the child will be dropped off, not across the street. Children can be so excited to see you after school that they dash across the street and forget the safety rules. 

Poplar Bluff Transportation Director Jon McKinney is thanking the Poplar Bluff Schools transportation staff for everything that they do to keep the over 2000 students they transport each day safe.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS ON SOUTHBOUND INTERSTATE 55 NEAR MATTHEWS TO BEGIN TODAY 

Southbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction for the rest of this week as contractor crews perform pavement repairs.  

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the reduction is located from mile marker 66 to mile marker 58 near Matthews. 

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

Monday, October 21, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF GIRLS TENNIS TEAM TO PLAY TODAY IN STATE TOURNAMENT

The Poplar Bluff High School girls tennis team has claimed a district championship and are now turning their sights towards a state championship.

The girls won the Class 2, District 1 Team Tennis Tournament last week, defeating Notre Dame 5-2 in the championship game. It is the first tennis district championship for the Lady Mules since 2003.

The Lady Mules will travel to MICDS today to take on the Lady Rams in the MSHSAA Class 2 State Quarterfinals.

Two Lady Mules Golfers will also be starting the Class 3 State Championship tournament today. Both Rhyan Waddell and Olivia Thetford will be teeing off this morning at the Rivercut Golf Course in Springfield.

NEELYVILLE SOFTBALL EASILY DISPATCHES EAST CARTER, ADVANCES TO DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP

The Neelyville Lady Tigers defeated the East Carter Lady Redbirds 11-1 in the softball Class 2 District 1 Semifinal.

The Lady Tigers scored 3 runs in the 1st, 2nd, and 4th innings. In the bottom of the 5th Senior Reese Dobbins smashed a game ending 2 run homerun to center field.

Senior pitcher September Preslar pitched 5 innings and gave up three hits, one run, and struck out seven.

The Lady Tigers will play for the District Championship on Tuesday at 4:30 pm against the host Chaffee.

The Championship game will be broadcast live on Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM as well as at KWOC.com. A video feed of the game will be available to purchase at MSHSAA.TV.

Pregame will begin at 4 pm.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A MINOR

A Poplar Bluff man will be sentenced early next year after admitting to recording his rape of a minor with an intellectual disability.

46 year old Jason Hicks-Simpson pleaded guilty on Friday in U.S. District Court to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor.

The victim told investigators that Hicks-Simpson had been sexually abusing them for multiple years. They also said Hicks-Simpson threatened to kill them if they did not keep it a secret.

Investigators found videos dating back to May of 2023 on his phone according to the plea agreement.

As part of the plea agreement, both sides have agreed to recommend 20 years in prison. Sentencing has been scheduled for January 31, 2025.

14 POPLAR BLUFF STUDENTS CHOSEN FOR ALL-DISTRICT CHOIR

Numerous Poplar Bluff High School students have been chosen to participate in the All-District Choir concert in November.

According to school officials, a total of 14 PBHS students were selected for the All-District Choir concert, which will be held on Saturday, November 9th, in Cape Girardeau.

Officials say that auditions consisted of a solo component – preparing an art song for a panel of judges, and sight-reading – identifying key signatures and performing a melody.

The students chosen in the freshman and sophomore section were Alexis Agee, Kate Harris and Jazlynn LeGrand in the soprano section; Dalton Rommel as tenor; and Bryden McElhaney as bass.

Selected to perform in the junior and senior section were: Victoria Conover, Cheyann Downing and Gabby Rushing in the soprano section; Frances Nelson and Virginiagrace Vandewarker as altos, Andrew Noble – tenor; and Elijah Bosch, Cayden Innes and Avain Pettigrew in the bass section.

CULVERT REPLACEMENTS TO FORCE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF BUTLER COUNTY ROAD

Route M in Butler County will be closed this week so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can replace several culverts under the roadway and perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located between County Road 470 and County Road 462 near Poplar Bluff.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON INTERSTATE 55 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Northbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction this week as contractor crews perform pavement repairs. 

ThE section of roadway is located from mile marker 54.6 to mile marker 56 near Matthews.

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

Friday, October 18, 2024

KENNETT MAN KILLED IN THURSDAY MORNING CRASH

A Kennett man has died from injuries he received in an early Thursday morning crash.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Tyler Hightower was driving on Highway 84, one mile west of Hayti, when his vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment, and overturned.

Hightower, who was not wearing a safety device, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Pemiscot County Coroner.

TWIN RIVERS CELEBRATES FIRST OFC BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP IN OVER A DECADE

Twin Rivers High School is celebrating its first Ozark Foothills Conference baseball championship in over a decade.

The top seed Royals defeated Greenville Thursday 5-3 in the finals of the OFC Tournament at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

It is the first conference championship for the Royals since 2011.

Earlier on Thursday Doniphan beat Puxico 8-7 in the third place game.

Today’s Talk KWOC will switch from baseball to softball this weekend for the Class 2, District 1 Tournament as Neelyville takes on East Carter in the district semifinals.

That game will be broadcast live beginning at noon on Saturday on Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM as well as at KWOC.com. A video feed of the game will be available to purchase at MSHSAA.TV.

MULTIPLE EARTHQUAKES SHAKE DONIPHAN AREA THURSDAY MORNING

Multiple earthquakes shook the Doniphan area on Thursday.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.7 quake was recorded at 7 am Thursday morning.

The earthquake was centered around three miles east of Doniphan and had a depth of over six miles.

Around 90 minutes later, a magnitude 2.5 earthquake occurred, centered two and a half miles east of Doniphan.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOST JOB FAIR THIS MONTH

Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a job fair this month.

The event is scheduled for 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, October 22nd at the Crisp Technology Center on the TRC Poplar Bluff campus.

Over a dozen employers are signed up to be involved in the fair, with some conducting on-site internews.

More information is available at trcc.edu.

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS WALK SET FOR THIS WEEKEND IN POPLAR BLUFF

A charity walk to promote breast cancer awareness has been set for this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

The Pinktober Saturday Walk, sponsored by Alpha Delta Nu at Three Rivers College, will be held from 10 am to 3 pm on Saturday at McLane Park.

Entry is free and there will be food, t-shirt, and more available at the event.

Organizers say that all proceeds will go to a local organization that will provide mammograms, preventative screenings, and more.

SEVERAL USDA OFFICIALS VISIT BERNIE FOR RECOGNITION CEREMONY

Several officials with the United States Department of Agriculture joined with state and local officials in Bernie on Thursday.

The event was to recognize the city of Bernie for their role in getting a grant and loan for improvements to the water distribution system, water treatment plant, and water storage tanks.

Over seven million dollars in loans and over four million dollars in grant money has been approved for the city’s water system.

On Thursday, USDA Rural Development Missouri State Director Kyle Wilkens also congratulated the Pemiscot-Dunklin Electric Cooperative on receiving $68,590 to provide electrical safety and awareness skills training in New Madrid, Pemiscot, and Dunklin Counties through the Rural Business Development Grant Program.

Thursday, October 17, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT NAMED CANDIDATE FOR NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP

A Poplar Bluff High School student has been named as a semifinalist for the National Merit Scholarship.

School officials say that senior Jack Funke is one of more than 16,000 semifinalists of the 70th annual NMS program based on his Preliminary SAT score from last year.

Funke has also been accepted into the Missouri Scholars Academy at the University of Missouri.

As part of his scholarship application, Jack attributed his willingness to pursue theater and music to his supportive parents always encouraging him to experience new things in order to help him grow.

He further credits his thirst for knowledge beyond the classroom to Matt and Jennifer Funke regularly reading to him from a young age.

School officials say that Poplar Bluff’s last Merit Scholar was alumnus Adeesh Mishra in 2018.

GREENVILLE AND TWIN RIVERS TO PLAY TODAY FOR OFC BASEBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

The 2024 Ozark Foothills Conference Baseball Tournament will come to an end today.

Number two seed Greenville will be facing top seed Twin Rivers at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff for the OFC Championship. First pitch is scheduled for 3 pm.

The Third Place game will see Puxico take on Doniphan, beginning at 1pm.

Both the Championship and Third Place games will be broadcast live on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page at facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC and the River Radio Youtube page at youtube.com/RiverRadioPB.

RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY TO BE HELD FOR NEW BUTLER COUNTY EMS FACILITY

A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held today for the new Butler County EMS facility in Poplar Bluff.

The ribbon cutting will begin at 9 am at the location of the new facility at 2500 Kanell Boulevard.

Multiple community agencies have been invited to be a part of the festivities.

We have a video tour of the new facility available on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page.

GRANT AWARDED TO AREA FIRST RESPONDER ORGANIZATIONS FOR TEXT-TO-911 CAPABILITIES

A grant has been approved that will allow multiple counties in Southeast Missouri to incorporate texts to their 911 systems.

On Tuesday, the Missouri 911 Service Board awarded a 2.3 million dollar grant to Dunklin, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Scott, and Stoddard County.

The bootheel project is a regional effort between the five counties to purchase and upgrade NG911 compatible equipment. The project will also consolidate all counties onto the same network.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI MAN ARRESTED ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES

A Southeast Missouri man has been taken into custody on multiple child pornography related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 39 year old Mark Strawbridge, of Caruthersville, was arrested Tuesday afternoon on felony charges of promoting child pornography and possession of child pornography.

According to a probable cause affidavit, during an interview with investigators on Tuesday, Strawbridge admitted to downloading child pornography at his home.

Following the arrest, Strawbridge was held at the Pemiscot County Jail. His arraignment is scheduled for this morning.

GREAT CENTRAL U.S. SHAKEOUT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY

Millions of people all across the central United States will be participating in the Great Central U.S. Shakeout Earthquake Drill today.

The drill is scheduled for 10:17 am and officials say the goal is to get everyone prepared for a possible major earthquake.

You can visit www.earthquakecountry.org/sevensteps for tips on how to prepare, protect, and recover in case of an earthquake.

For more information on the Great Central U.S. Shake-out go to ShakeOut.org.

MODOT CREWS TO BE WORKING ON ROUTE N IN BUTLER COUNTY TODAY

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

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route 51 to County Road 243 near Qulin.

Work is scheduled to take place today through 4 p.m.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY ON ROUTE 80 NEAR MATTHEWS

Route 80 in New Madrid 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 Route AA and County Road 706 near Matthews.

Work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

WARRANT ISSUED FOR MAN IN CONNECTION TO A HIT AND RUN IN MALDEN

A warrant has been issued for a subject in connection to an alleged hit and run over the weekend.

Malden Director of Public Safety Jeff Mitchell tells KWOC News that at approximately 1:30 am on Sunday, dispatch received a call in reference to a leaving the scene accident in the 900 block of North Kimball Street.

The caller said that a female was hit by a car. At the scene, officers found the female to have extensive injuries and she was transported to an area hospital. At last update, the victim was listed as stable.

The car involved was found near the scene.

The driver of the vehicle has been identified as Naaman Caldwell and a warrant has been issued for his arrest on a felony charge of leaving the scene of an accident and misdemeanor charges of operating a vehicle without a valid license and operating a motor vehicle owned by another while knowing the owner has not maintained financial responsibility.

The warrant includes a $75,000 cash only bond.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SENTENCED TO OVER EIGHT YEARS IN PRISON FOR SELLING METHAMPHETAMINE

A Poplar Bluff man will be spending over eight years in prison for selling methamphetamine.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 33 year old Rashad Marshall pleaded guilty in July to one count each of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine.

Officials say that Marshall admitted to conspiring with Joshua E. Forbes and two others to sell methamphetamine. A member of the Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force purchased meth from the conspirators on six occasions between June and August of 2023.

On Monday, Marshall was sentenced to 100 months in prison.

OVER FIVE THOUSAND DEER HARVESTED DURING FIREARMS EARLY ANTLERLESS PORTION OF DEER SEASON

Hunters across Missouri took to the woods this past weekend for the state’s firearms early antlerless portion of deer season.

According to preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation, hunters harvested 5,741 deer during the weekend.

This is a massive decrease from last year’s total of 16,553. State officials attribute the decreased harvest to the stark contrast in weather conditions between the two years.

Bollinger County had the third highest harvest numbers in the state, with a total of 135 deer taken, while Ripley County was fifth with 127 deer taken.

The November firearms portion of deer season is set to begin on November 16th.

POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL ACCEPTS GRANT TO REMOVE GAS CHAMBER FOR ANIMAL EUTHANASIA

The Poplar Bluff City Council has accepted a grant to remove a gas chamber that is used for emergency animal euthanasia.

During the City Council’s regular meeting last week, the council approved a $15,000 grant agreement with the Humane Society of the United States.

The grant will be used to eliminate the chamber and to cover costs for not using it.

City planner James Sisk said during the meeting that the chamber was the last remaining one in Missouri used for that purpose and for the most part, it was only being used in emergency situations.

TWO DAY CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO BEGIN TODAY NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

Route M in Butler County will be reduced for two days this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The work zone is located near Poplar Bluff between County Road 464 and County Road 462.

Work will take place from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., both today and tomorrow.

BRIDGE REPAIR PROJECT SET FOR THIS WEEK IN MALDEN

Route 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

The section of roadway is located between County Road 120 and Douglas Street in Malden.

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

Tuesday, October 15, 2024

GROUNDBREAKING HELD FOR NEW BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF THE HEARTLAND FACILITY

A groundbreaking ceremony was held Monday for a new facility to help area teens prepare for their future careers.

The Boys and Girls Club of the Heartland Regional Workforce Development Teen Center is a 33,250 square foot facility that will allow easy access for students from more than 20 area high schools in Missouri and Northeast Arkansas participating in the organization’s Workforce Development Initiative.

The program allows for the development of critical employment skills and training and experiential learning, plus an opportunity to earn college credits.

The new facility on Oak Grove Road will contain a full-size gymnasium, recreation and office area, and classroom wing, along with multiple labs and workshops.

Completion is anticipated by October of next year.

INVESTIGATIONS UNDERWAY INTO FIRE AND BURGLARY AT POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENCE

Authorities are investigating a weekend fire in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on Saturday, officers and fire personnel responded to a residence on Vine Street for a structure fire.

After firefighters extinguished the fire, police officers found signs of forced entry and determined that a burglary had occurred prior to the fire.

Officials say that the matter was referred to the Fire Marshal's Office for an arson investigation, while the burglary investigation remains ongoing with Poplar Bluff Police Department.

RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY SCHEDULED FOR NEW BUTLER COUNTY EMS FACILITY

A ribbon cutting ceremony has been scheduled for a new facility that has been built for Butler County EMS in Poplar Bluff.

The ribbon cutting will be held on Thursday, October 17th at 9 am at the location of the new facility at 2500 Kanell Boulevard.

Multiple community agencies have been invited to be a part of the festivities.

FIRE CREWS RESPOND QUICKLY TO EXTINGUISH VEHICLE FIRE ON AREA TRAIN TRACKS

Fire crews had to respond quickly over the weekend for a report of a burning vehicle on train tracks in the Campbell area.

According to the Campbell Volunteer Fire Department, fire crews responded to a vehicle on fire just after midnight Saturday night.

Officials say that the crews were able to get the fire extinguished and the vehicle towed just as they started to see the lights from an oncoming train.

They were able to get in contact with the train operator to get the train stopped so someone could inspect the tracks for damage.

No information was released on if there were any injuries from the truck fire.

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN WEEKEND MOTORCYCLE CRASH

Two people were seriously injured in a motorcycle crash over the weekend.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the crash occurred shortly before 8 pm Saturday night on Highway 21 in Carter County when a vehicle pulled out of a parking lot and into the path of a motorcycle.

Two people riding the motorcycle, 26 year old Jaret Trube, of Doniphan, and 18 year old Lillie Cora, of Grandin, received serious injuries in the crash and were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

THREE MONTH ROAD CLOSURE UNDERWAY ON ROUTE P IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route P in Stoddard County will be closed for three months so construction crews can perform bridge rehabilitation over Drainage Ditch 35.

The closure is located from Route Y to County Road 518.

The roadway will remain closed until the work is completed, which is anticipated to be on Monday, January 13.

Monday, October 14, 2024

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING INCIDENT IN POPLAR BLUFF

A man is in custody in connection to a shooting over the weekend in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, shortly before 6 am Saturday morning, officers responded to a residence on Victor Street in reference to a shooting.

At the home, the resident indicated that she had shot at a male subject as he entered her bedroom window.

24 year old Rondriguez Hopkins, of Poplar Bluff, was located approximately one block away and had a gunshot wound to his shoulder and hand. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

Hopkins was later lodged at the Butler County Justice Center pending the filing of formal charges.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Mike McClain tells KWOC News that at this time no charges are being sought against the resident of the home.

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

A single vehicle crash near Poplar Bluff resulted in the death of an area man.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 54 year old Perry Walk, of Doniphan, was driving on Highway M, five miles west of Poplar Bluff, when his vehicle ran off the left side of the roadway, struck a tree, and overturned.

Officials say the crash occurred early Saturday morning.

Walk was pronounced dead at the scene by Butler County Coroner Jim Akers.

JUDGMENT ENTERED AGAINST STODDARD COUNTY SHERIFF FOR REFUSING TO RELEASE REQUESTED VIDEO

Stoddard County Sheriff Carl Hefner has been ordered to pay thousands of dollars in connection to his refusal to release body cam footage.

A judgment released on October 9th says that Hefner actively sought to hide the apparent disturbing actions of one of his Deputies in order to avoid an apparent public outcry, and systemically sought to thwart the efforts of the Plaintiff to obtain video of the incident, regardless of the reason it may have been sought.

The body cam footage was in relation to an incident in August 2023.

Hefner was ordered to pay a civil penalty of $500, deposition fees of $817.50, and attorney fees of $5,000.

2024 OFC BASEBALL TOURNAMENT BEGINS TODAY

The 2024 OFC Baseball Tournament, featuring eight area schools, begins today.

Twin Rivers captured the top seed for the tournament and will play number 8 seed Clearwater at 4 pm today in Broseley.

The other three first round matchups will be played at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff today and will see Puxico taking on Neelyville at 11 am, Greenville challenging East Carter at 1 pm, and Doniphan facing Naylor at 3 pm.

Seven games of the tournament, including the championship game, will be streamed live on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page and River Radio Youtube page

MAN FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES FOR ALLEGEDLY CAUSING SERIOUS INJURIES TO A YOUNG CHILD

A man in Northeast Arkansas is facing multiple charges after a young child suffered serious injuries.

According to the Paragould Police Department, on September 9th, officers were dispatched to a residence in Paragould in reference to an unresponsive infant.

The child was transported to an area hospital where serious injuries were discovered by medical staff. Medical documentation indicated that the injuries were consistent with repeated incidents of abuse leading to the injuries.

During the investigation, detectives gathered incriminating evidence that the actions of 35 year old Joshua Collins were the reason for the sustained injuries.

Collins was taken into custody last week on felony charges of endangering the welfare of a minor - 1st degree and domestic battering - 1st degree.

He was held in the Greene County Jail on a $25,000 bond.

ADVANCE 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 nine troopers graduated from the Patrol’s Accelerated Law Enforcement Academy on Friday, October 11th.

Gavin Krech, of Advance, was assigned to cover Butler and Ripley Counties.

Krech was also awarded the Firearms Trophy and Superintendent’s Award during the Graduation ceremony.

Trooper Krech will report to duty in Troop E on Monday, October 21st.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED TODAY IN MISSOURI

Missouri state officials are reminding motorists that driver examinations will not be available today due to the holiday.

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

Officials say that normal operations will resume on Tuesday.

Friday, October 11, 2024

FANS TO PINK OUT MULES FOOTBALL STADIUM TONIGHT

Poplar Bluff Mules Football Fans are being encouraged to wear their pinkest clothing for tonight’s game.

The Mules will be hosting the West Plains Zizzers tonight for the annual Pink Out Game.

Today’s Talk KWOC will be streaming the game tonight on both the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook Page and the River Radio Youtube page.

TYLER AND BEN HANSBROUGH HIGHLIGHT 36TH POPLAR BLUFF SPORTS HALL OF FAME CLASS

Two brothers highlighted the 2024 class of the Poplar Bluff Sports Hall of Fame.

Tyler and Ben Hansbrough along with the 2004 and 2005 PBHS Mules basketball teams were honored during a ceremony on Thursday. Their plaques are being added to the Hall of Fame room in the Poplar Bluff Museum on Main Street, bringing the total number of those honored to 100 individuals and 12 teams.

Tyler Hansbrough was an All-American basketball player in high school and college, holding numerous records and has his Number 50 jersey retired at both levels. He has also been inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame and the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame.

Ben Hansbrough was an All-American and Big East Player of the Year at the University of Notre Dame and has his Number 23 jersey retired at Poplar Bluff.

During the brothers' three seasons together at Poplar Bluff, the Mules won 78 games, made three appearances in the MSHSAA final four, finishing fourth in 2003 before winning consecutive state championships in 2004 and 2005.

MISSOURI PERSONNEL NO LONGER NEEDED FOR HURRICANE RESPONSE EFFORTS

Missouri Governor Mike Parson says that state personnel are no longer needed to assist with hurricane response efforts.

Parson had previously announced that 100 Missouri National Guard members, 21 Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers and civilian support staff, and five Missouri Disaster Medical Assistance Team members would be mobilized in response to an Emergency Management Assistance Compact request from Florida.

In light of Hurricane Milton being less impactful than previously expected, the State of Florida has canceled the request that Missouri was responding to.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management said the willingness to help was appreciated but that the events over the last 24 hours were not as dire as had been expected and that the state believed it was able to meet its needs with resources already available within the state.

Parson added that the State of Missouri has no pending, direct EMAC requests for states affected by Hurricanes Helene or Milton but is prepared to consider any requests should they be received.

GREENVILLE JACK O’LANTERN JUBILEE STARTS THIS WEEKEND

The 2024 Greenville Jack O’Lantern Jubilee will begin this weekend.

According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the free event will be held from 5 to 7 pm on October 12th, 19th, and 26th at the Greenville Campground.

Officials say that during the jubilee, area businesses, groups, agencies, and creative campers will decorate their campsites and welcome trick-or-treaters into the campground.

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

DONIPHAN CITY WIDE YARD SALE SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

A Doniphan tradition is returning this weekend.

The Doniphan Fall City Wide Yard Sale is scheduled for 8 am to 2 pm on Saturday.

The event will feature vendors, food trucks, sales, and more.

For more information, contact Chasity Mathis at 573-996-2623.

FALL BUFF UP THE BLUFF COMING ON SATURDAY

The 2024 Fall Buff up the Bluff event is set for this weekend.

The citywide clean up event has been scheduled for Saturday.

Henson’s Transfer Station on the Industrial Park Bypass will be accepting items from 8 am to 3 pm. Proof of Poplar Bluff residency will be required.

Items being accepted include bulky items such as scrap metal, furniture, construction materials and tires.

Drivers must be prepared to unload their own vehicle.

Thursday, October 10, 2024

HAWLEY RALLY IN POPLAR BLUFF TO BE CARRIED LIVE BY TODAY’S TALK KWOC

The rally in Poplar Bluff today featuring United States Senator Josh Hawley and Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, will be carried live online by Today’s Talk KWOC.

The rally will be held at 5 pm on Thursday at the Poplar Bluff High School Football stadium.

The rally will be free and open to the public and concessions will be available for purchase.

Anyone wanting to watch from home will be able to see the rally on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page and River Radio Youtube page.

BRACKET ANNOUNCED FOR 2024 OFC BASEBALL TOURNAMENT

The bracket has been announced for the 2024 OFC Baseball Tournament.

The tournament, featuring eight area schools, will begin on Monday, October 14th.

Twin Rivers captured the top seed for the tournament and will play number 8 seed Clearwater on Monday in Broseley. The other three Monday matchups will be played at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff and will see Puxico taking on Neelyville, Greenville challenging East Carter, and Doniphan facing Naylor.

Seven games of the tournament, including the championship game, will be streamed live on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page and River Radio Youtube page

POPLAR BLUFF MIDDLE SCHOOL TO HOST PARADE FOR VETERANS DAY

Poplar Bluff area veterans are being invited to participate in a parade for Veteran’s Day.

The Poplar Bluff Middle School is hosting a Veteran’s Day Parade on Monday, November 11th. Veterans who want to be involved will get to drive through a parade loop around the PBMS campus to be recognized and cheered on by students.

The Parade will begin at 9:15 am and the veterans should arrive at the parking lot of the Highland Drive Church of Christ at 8:30 am.

Only veterans, students, and school staff will be allowed on campus for the event.

Any veteran that would like to join the parade is asked to call 573-785-5566 and ask to speak to a counselor or go to the Poplar Bluff Middle School Facebook page.

MAN CHARGED WITH RAPE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A man is in custody in Northeast Arkansas on three counts of rape.

According to the Greene County Sheriff’s Office, 58 year old Kenneth Hause is being held in the Greene County Detention Center on three counts of rape and a single county of sexual assault 2nd degree.

A victim, under the age of 10, told police of multiple acts that would constitute rape or sexual assault.

The acts, allegedly performed by Hause, occurred at a residence in Greene County.

Hause was booked into the Greene County Detention Center on Tuesday and is being held on no bond.

MODOT CREWS TO BE TRAINING FOR WINTER WEATHER TODAY

Do not be surprised if you see an increased number of MoDOT vehicles on the roads today.

The Missouri Department of Transportation will hold its annual statewide winter operations drill beginning this morning.

During today’s drill, MoDOT employees will react to a simulated forecast of significant snow for the entire state. The department’s emergency operations centers will be activated and maintenance employees will be deployed to their trucks. Emergency communications systems will also be tested.

In rural areas, crews will deploy after 8 a.m. In urban areas, the drill will not begin until after 9 a.m.

The exercise should be completed by 3 p.m.

Officials say that with high turnover rates and many positions still open, driver training is more critical than ever.

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION ANNOUNCES DROP OFF POINTS FOR CWD TESTING

The Missouri Department of Conservation is making multiple drop off sites available to make it easier for deer hunters to help monitor Chronic Wasting Disease.

In Southeast Missouri, hunters can drop off deer heads at York’s One Stop in Campbell along with the Bollinger County CO-OP in Marble Hill and the heads will later be picked up by MDC staff.

Officials say the goal is to provide hunters an additional way of submitting their harvested deer for voluntary CWD testing. These self-serve drop sites will enable hunters to submit deer heads for sampling at their convenience during the 2024-2025 fall deer hunting season.

Hunters will need to record their name and contact information, as well as their Telecheck ID numbers and the location the deer was harvested.

A map of all voluntary CWD testing sites is available at mdc.mo.gov.

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

TODAY IS THE DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO VOTE IN MISSOURI FOR UPCOMING GENERAL ELECTION

The deadline is here to make sure you’re registered to vote in Missouri for the upcoming election.

According to the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office, the last day to register to vote in Missouri for the general election is today.

The general election is scheduled for Tuesday, November 5th.

For more information on how to register to vote, visit sos.mo.gov/elections.

FALL BUFF UP THE BLUFF COMING ON SATURDAY

The 2024 Fall Buff up the Bluff event is set for this weekend.

The citywide clean up event has been scheduled for Saturday, October 12th.

Henson’s Transfer Station on the Industrial Park Bypass will be accepting items from 8 am to 3 pm. Proof of Poplar Bluff residency will be required.

Items being accepted include bulky items such as scrap metal, furniture, construction materials and tires.

Drivers must be prepared to unload their own vehicle.

THIS WEEK IS NATIONAL FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

It's National Fire Prevention Week, and officials are urging residents to develop fire escape routes for their homes and practice at least twice a year.

State officials say that rehearsing an escape can save time and lives because flames and smoke spread quickly.

You should also take steps to keep fires from starting, such as never leaving the kitchen while cooking, replacing damaged electrical cords and blowing out candles when leaving a room.

The theme for this year’s fire prevention week is “Smoke Alarms: Make them work for you!”

Smoke alarms should be placed throughout a home, tested monthly and replaced every 10 years. You should also remember to change the alarm’s batteries once a year and a good time to remember to do that is when the time changes in the fall.

This week, the Poplar Bluff Fire Department will be visiting area schools and talking fire safety with students.

STATE OFFICIALS STRESS SAFETY FOR NON-HUNTERS DURING HUNTING SEASON

Deer and Turkey hunting is underway in Missouri and state officials are reminding non-hunters that they also need to practice safety measures when afield.

Officials say that non-hunters should wear bright clothing to be more visible, such as a bright orange hat, jacket, or pack.

Place a bright orange vest or bandana on canines who join you and remember to keep them leashed. Be aware that hunters are often most active during the early morning and late afternoon, when game animals are most active. Be especially aware of your own visibility during these times when light is dim.

Stay on designated trails. Trails are designed to improve the safety of public users and to protect sensitive habitats. Enjoying recreational activities only on designated trails will reduce the likelihood of entering hunting areas.

If you hear shooting, raise your voice, and let hunters know you are in the area.

This is also the time to be extra cautious and watching for deer while driving.

POPLAR BLUFF CHURCH TO HOST JOB FAIR THIS WEEKEND

A Poplar Bluff area church will be hosting a job fair this weekend.

The event has been scheduled for 10 am to noon on Saturday, October 12th at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on Katy Lane.

The job fair will feature professional career path presentations, college guidance, employment opportunities, and more.

MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL WARNS PUBLIC OF TELEPHONE SCAM

State officials are warning Missouri residents to be aware of a telephone scam.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, in the past month, some incidents have been reported where a suspect contacted an individual associated with someone who was involved in a motor vehicle crash, identified themselves as the investigating trooper and attempted to solicit money from the victim.

The suspect may intimidate the victim with false claims of impending or nonexistent court charges/proceedings.

Officials say that Patrol employees will not contact individuals and solicit funds or demand any form of payment.

If you or someone you know have been contacted in a similar manner, report the incident to your local Troop Headquarters.

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

LOCATION ANNOUNCED FOR RALLY FEATURING SENATOR JOSH HAWLEY AND KANSAS CITY CHIEFS KICKER HARRISON BUTKER

The location has been announced for a political rally this week in Poplar Bluff featuring United States Senator Josh Hawley and Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker.

The rally will be held at 5 pm on Thursday at the Poplar Bluff High School Football stadium.

The rally will be free and open to the public and concessions will be available for purchase.

HOUSE EXPLOSION IN BUTLER COUNTY CLASSIFIED AS ACCIDENTAL

The explosion that killed two people last week in rural Butler County is believed to have been accidental.

The explosion occurred shortly before 9 am on Friday at a home near Highway 53 and Butler County Road 605.

Coroner Jim Akers tells KWOC News that 77 year old Diana Baker and 67 year old Danny Batchelor, both of Poplar Bluff, were killed in the explosion.

According to the Missouri Department of Public Safety, a propane tank at the residence had been filled on Thursday and investigators determined there was a leak in a pipe that allowed gas to enter the basement.

Officials say that the explosion has been classified as accidental.

MAN APPEARS IN COURT ON SODOMY AND CHILD ABUSE CHARGES

A man appeared in a Butler County court Monday morning on a sodomy charge.

According to Missouri Case Net, a warrant was served last week on Dakota Christian Schrieber, of Poplar Bluff, on charges of sodomy or attempted sodomy - 1st degree and abuse or neglect of a child.

Schrieber is accused of having inappropriate contact with a child under the age of 12.

He is being held in the Butler County Justice Center on a no bond warrant ahead of his next court date on October 17th.

MULTIPLE PETS POISONED IN NEW MADRID, INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY

Authorities in New Madrid are investigating after several reports have come in of area pets being poisoned.

According to the New Madrid Police Department, the pets were poisoned in the area of Davis and Capital Streets over the last few weeks.

Officials say that it is believed that someone is attempting to poison skunks in the area and have killed several neighborhood pets in the process.

Anyone with information related to the investigation is asked to contact the New Madrid Police Department at 573-748-5901.

SEVEN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES IN DONIPHAN

Seven people were arrested on drug charges Sunday in Doniphan.

According to the Doniphan Police Department, officers conducted a search warrant Sunday evening at a property on North Green Street.

Seven people, all of Doniphan, were arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia in connection to the search, 52 year old Homer Lambert, 52 year old Stacey Wood, 50 year old Travis Luye, 45 year old Terry Whitnell, 43 year old Katherine Whitnell, 41 year old Melinda Vollet, and 38 year old Phillip Vialibaba.

Lambert has also been charged with felony unlawful use of a weapon.

All seven suspects were placed in the Ripley County Detention Center.

DONIPHAN CITY WIDE YARD SALE SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

A Doniphan tradition is returning this weekend.

The Doniphan Fall City Wide Yard Sale is scheduled for 8 am to 2 pm on Saturday, October 12th.

The event will feature vendors, food trucks, sales, and more.

For more information, contact Chasity Mathis at 573-996-2623.

Monday, October 7, 2024

IDENTITIES RELEASED OF VICTIMS IN BUTLER COUNTY HOUSE EXPLOSION

Two people were killed in a large explosion in rural Butler County on Friday.

The explosion occurred shortly before 9 am at a home near Highway 53 and Butler County Road 605.

While working the scene, emergency crews found two people deceased among the debris.

Coroner Jim Akers tells KWOC News that the deceased have been identified as 77 year old Diana Baker and 67 year old Danny Batchelor, both of Poplar Bluff

The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating a possible cause for the explosion.

The Poplar Bluff Fire Department, Butler County Fire Department, Butler County Sheriff’s Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Butler County EMS, Butler County Coroner's Office, and Missouri State Fire Marshal's Office were all on scene.

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

SENATOR JOSH HAWLEY AND KANSAS CITY CHIEFS KICKER HARRISON BUTKER TO APPEAR AT RALLY THIS WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF

A sitting United States Senator along with a member of the Kansas City Chiefs will be in Poplar Bluff this week.

A political rally will be held at 5 pm on Thursday and the speakers will include United States Senator Josh Hawley and Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker.

The location will be announced this week.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN IN CUSTODY AFTER ALLEGEDLY HOLDING ANOTHER PERSON AT GUNPOINT

An argument led to a weapons arrest last week in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on Wednesday, officers responded to a residence on Arkansas Avenue in reference to an individual brandishing a weapon.

Officials say that it was determined that an argument had occurred between several people at the residence, and that one person had obtained a firearm and held another person at gunpoint.

33 year old Brandon Random, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested for kidnapping 1st degree, unlawful use of a weapon, and armed criminal action.

Charges are being sought against Random through the Butler County Prosecutor’s Office as well as for a second subject in the incident for unlawful possession of a firearm.

MOTORISTS WARNED TO KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR DEER

With temperatures starting to drop, Missouri motorists are being advised to watch for deer.

Officials say that deer are more active and create hazards for Missouri motorists at this time of year.

The majority of deer strike crashes occur in October and November each year, with most happening in the 6 to 7 am and 6 to 9 pm timeframes.

Last year, drivers in Missouri experienced 3,591 traffic crashes where deer-vehicle strikes occurred. In these crashes, there were four fatalities and 420 people were injured.

Drivers are reminded that an attempt to avoid striking a deer could result in a more serious crash involving oncoming traffic. As soon as you see a deer, the best course of action is to reduce your speed gradually while watching other traffic around you.

If you do strike a deer, move your vehicle to a safe location and call 9-1-1 or *55 on a cell phone and report it.

ROAD CREWS TO BE WORKING THIS WEEK ON ROUTE P IN SENATH

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

The work zone will be located from Route V to Route C in Senath.

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

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

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

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route A to County Road 632 near Big Ridge.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Friday, October 4, 2024

COMMUNITY MEMBERS TEAM UP TO HELP PROTECT MULES FOOTBALL PLAYERS

Players for the Poplar Bluff Mules Football team now have additional ways to stay safe during practices and games thanks to the help of local community members.

According to Poplar Bluff School Officials, several local medical practitioners, lawyers, and realtors teamed up over the summer to supply 150 Guardian Caps, a value of more than $8,000, to be dispersed between Poplar Bluff High School and Junior High.

Guardian Caps add a padded, soft-shell layer to the exterior of football helmets with energy-absorbing properties designed to reduce the initial severity of impact to the head.

Mules High School Football Coach Jeff Mannon tells KWOC News that there have been zero concussions reported during practice so far this season. Mannon added “It lets you go at full-speed with reassurance that you won’t get a concussion on Tuesday at practice, and not be able to play during the game on Friday.

The usage of the caps is optional during NFL games this year and mandated by the league for certain positions during contact practice. MSHSAA does not endorse the add-on as of right now, but Coach Mannon says that he hopes standard helmet design will eventually advance to incorporate the safeguard.

The Mules will be back in action tonight as they travel to Sikeston to take on the Bulldogs.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION RELEASED IN CONNECTION TO WAYNE COUNTY FATAL SHOOTING

A suspect is facing multiple charges following a fatal shooting in Wayne County.

According to authorities, Eric “Quinn” Moore has been taken into custody after two people were shot during an incident on Wednesday in the Lowndes area.

One of the subjects has died while the other is in critical condition. Their identities have not been released.

Officials say that Moore is currently facing charges of armed criminal action, kidnapping, and two counts of first degree assault.

MAN SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS IN PRISON ON RAPE CHARGE IN STODDARD COUNTY

A man in Stoddard County has been sentenced to two decades in prison on a rape charge.

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Sawyer Smith, defendant Patrick Varner was sentenced on Wednesday to 20 years imprisonment in the Missouri Department of Corrections for a charge of rape or attempted rape and seven years imprisonment each for charges of stautory rape and possession of child pornography.

The sentences will run concurrently.

Smith says that Varner will also be required to register as a tier 3 sex offender for the remainder of his life.

NORTHSIDE NUTRITION CENTER TO HOST CELEBRATION OF 50 YEARS OF PROVIDING MEALS

Northside Nutrition Center in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a celebration today.

The event has been scheduled for 10:30 am to 12:30 pm today to celebrate 50 years of serving senior citizens and veterans meals.

A meal will be served as a part of the event.

For more information, contact Northside Nutrition Center at 573-686-2074.

TRADITION TO BE CELEBRATED DURING NAYLOR HERITAGE DAY THIS WEEKEND

Area residents will be celebrating the community of Naylor’s traditions this weekend.

Naylor Heritage Day will begin at 7 am on October 5th with a breakfast at the Naylor Nutrition Center.

The parade down Main Street will follow starting at 10 am. The Heritage Day festivities will also feature a car show, historical demonstrations, live music, a foam party, and vendors.

The event will wrap up with a block party and street dance from 5 pm to 8 pm.

For more information, contact Krissie Ainley at 573-399-0052.

TWELFTH ANNUAL LIBERTY DAYS EVENT SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND

The Stars and Stripes National Museum and Library in Bloomfield is hosting its 12th annual Liberty Days event this weekend.

The two day event will be held from 9 am to 4 pm both today and tomorrow. Officials say there will be multiple events, live demonstrations, mock battles, vendors, period-accurate camps and living quarters, a pet photo contest, and more.

Admission to the event is free.

For more information, call 573-568-2055.

Thursday, October 3, 2024

SEARCH UNDERWAY FOR SUBJECT IN CONNECTION TO  WAYNE COUNTY SHOOTING

A search is underway for a subject in connection to an assault in Wayne County.

Sheriff Dean Finch tells KWOC News that on Wednesday afternoon, at around 1 pm, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office received a call of an assault involving firearms in the area of County Roads 524 and 509 near Lowndes. 

An investigation resulted in Eric “Quinn” Moore being identified as a person of interest. 

He is reported to be driving a 1999 white Ford dually that is equipped with stainless steel exhaust stacks.

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of the vehicle or Moore, is asked to contact the Wayne County Sheriff's Office at 573-224-3219 or call 911.

WOMAN KILLED IN POPLAR BLUFF AREA CRASH WAS ALLEGEDLY DRIVING A STOLEN VEHICLE

A woman who was killed in a two vehicle crash Tuesday night in the Poplar Bluff area was allegedly driving a stolen vehicle.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, at approximately 9:15 pm on Tuesday, dispatch received a call from an individual who had recently reported that their vehicle was stolen.

Officers were dispatched to the area where the vehicle was last seen and met the vehicle on Highway 53 as it was going in the opposite direction at a high rate of speed with its headlights off.

Officers turned around and discovered that the vehicle was involved in an accident at the intersection of Highways 53 and 142.

The driver of the stolen vehicle, 38 year old Shanea Brown, of Poplar Bluff, was pronounced dead at an area hospital. The driver of the other vehicle suffered moderate injuries.

NEW ORGANIZATION SOUGHT TO KEEP OLD GREENVILLE BLACK POWDER RENDEZVOUS GOING

Officials with the US Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake say that help is needed to keep the Old Greenville Black Powder Rendezvous going next year.

The corps is looking for a new not for profit group or organization to run the event, which is the longest consecutive Rendezvous in the state of Missouri. The previous organizers were unable to continue running the event next year.

The event occurs on the 3rd weekend in April unless that weekend falls on Easter Sunday, in which case it will be held on the 4th weekend in April.

Any interested group should contact Park Ranger Andrew Jefferson at the Wappapello Lake project office by calling 573-222-8562.

OVER 26 MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACT AWARDED TO CONSTRUCT OUTER ROADS AND LANES FOR ROUTE 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission has awarded contracts for various road projects in Southeast Missouri.

According to officials, an over 26 million dollar contract was awarded to H.R. Quadri Contractors, LLC, for the addition of outer roads and lanes to upgrade Route 67 to freeway standards in Butler County.

The new roads will be located from County Road 338 south to County Road 352 and from County Road 360 to County Road 338.

An over 840 thousand dollar contract was also awarded to Joe’s Bridge and Grading for a bridge replacement on Route B over Drainage Ditch 1 in Butler County.

Additional information about the projects, including a timeline and what impacts there will be to traffic, will be released prior to the start of construction.

TWO POPLAR BLUFF RESIDENTS ARRESTED FOR ABUSE OR NEGLECT OF A CHILD

Two Poplar Bluff residents have been taken into custody after a juvenile was found unattended at an area business multiple times.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on Tuesday officers responded to a business on pine street in reference to an unattended juvenile.

Officials say that a juvenile, who is of an age that requires constant adult supervision, had arrived at the store unattended, then exited the store, and was later picked up by an adult who walked the juvenile to a nearby residence.

Officers made contact with the juvenile and their parents which revealed that the juvenile had wandered off during outdoor activities with their parents and there was a history of similar incidents.

Officers later responded back to the same business for the same juvenile who had returned to the business unattended again. It was determined that the juvenile had left the residence without the parents being aware.

Officials say that 35 year old Jesse Schaeding and 33 year old Jamie Hardesty were arrested for abuse or neglect of a child.

The juveniles in the residence were left in the care of a family member.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

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

The work zone is located between County Road 314 and County Road 344.

Work is scheduled to take place today from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.