Thursday, March 6, 2025

PIEDMONT MAN CHARGED WITH THREE COUNTS OF POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

A Piedmont man has been charged with multiple counts of possession of child pornography.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that in February, a Special Victims Unit investigator identified a device, associated with the internet account of 22 year old Tanner Stevens, which had uploaded child pornography.

Investigators contacted Stevens at his residence where a video depicting child pornography was located on an electronic device.

The Wayne County Prosecuting Attorney has formally charged Stevens with three counts of Possession of Child Pornography. He is being held in the Wayne County Jail on no bond.

POPLAR BLUFF REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER COLLECTING JARS OF PEANUT BUTTER TO SUPPORT SEMO FOOD BANK

An area hospital is collecting jars of peanut butter to help feed local residents.

The Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center’s Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive will run this year through Friday, March 24th, with all donations directly benefiting the SEMO Food Bank.

Last year, PBRMC donated 8,200 jars of peanut butter and this year they are aiming to collect at least 9,000 jars.

You can donate plastic jars of peanut butter at the PBRMC.

CITY OF QULIN JOINS WITH OZARK FOOTHILLS REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION TO CREATE ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION PLAN

The City of Qulin is taking steps to make the area more adaptable for physical activity.

The City of Qulin has partnered with Ozark Foothills Regional Planning Commission and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to create an Active Transportation Plan.

Officials say that the plan is free and could help with the creation of more public parks, trails, sidewalk improvements, crosswalks, stoplights and bike lanes within the city limits.

In the coming weeks and months, Qulin citizens will have an opportunity to provide feedback for the project through online surveys, community meetings and events.

For further information contact the project administrator, Amber Hornbeck, at 573-785-6402. You can also find more information on the City of Qulin’s Facebook page.

AREA LAW ENFORCEMENT TO HOST DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT

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

Multiple area law enforcement agencies will be participating in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 26th from 10 am to 2 pm.

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

COMEDIAN TIM LOVELACE TO PERFORM TONIGHT AT THE TINNIN FINE ARTS CENTER

A family friendly comedian will be performing tonight at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

Funnyman Tim Lovelace will pair his award-winning musical talents with crystal clean humor for a comedy concert that will entertain the entire family starting at 7 p.m.

Tickets are available online at tinnin.ticketleap.com for $15.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TODAY

Route 164 in Dunklin County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The work zone is located between Route N and Route YY in Hornersville.

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

Wednesday, March 5, 2025

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL TO HOST MASC STATE CONVENTION THIS MONTH

Over 1000 students from across the state will be coming to Poplar Bluff next week to be a part of the 77th Annual Missouri Association of Student Councils State Convention.

The convention will be held from March 13th through the 15th at the Poplar Bluff High School and will bring together student leaders from across the state for a weekend of leadership development, networking, and recognition.

Convention speakers will include filmmaker Sabrina Thompson, author Dr. Laymon Hicks, and author Joel Hilchey.

This will be the 1st time the MASC State Convention will be hosted in Poplar Bluff and the 1st time in 21 years that it will be in Southeast Missouri.

MISSOURI ANNUAL TORNADO DRILL TO BE HELD TODAY

Missouri’s Annual Statewide Tornado Drill is set for today as a part of Missouri Severe Weather Preparedness week.

The drill is scheduled for 11 am and officials say that residents should treat the drill as if it were an actual Tornado Warning.

At 11 am, NOAA Weather Radios set to receive the Routine Weekly Tests will alert listeners that the tornado drill has begun. Outdoor warning sirens will also sound across participating communities in Missouri.

The purpose of the drill is to test everyone's readiness for life-threatening severe weather events such as tornadoes, flash floods, and damaging winds.

Officials say that it is important to have a tornado safety plan in place before a tornado strikes. Knowing what to do before a tornado occurs is essential to protect lives.

You can find information on steps to take to protect yourself and your family in the case of a tornado at weather.gov/safety/tornado-prepare.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SENTENCED TO OVER A DECADE IN PRISON FOR ATTEMPTING TO SELL METH

A Poplar Bluff man will be spending over a decade in prison for attempting to sell methamphetamine.

In December 40 year old Lonnie Hamilton pleaded guilty to one felony count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

In March of 2023, a Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force officer was approached by someone who said Hamilton tried to sell him an ounce of meth on the street.

The officer found Hamilton, who removed a baggie containing meth from his pocket, admitted that the substance was methamphetamine and further admitted that he had recently been released from prison.

Hamilton said an acquaintance gave him two ounces of methamphetamine to sell so that he could make some money, adding that he’d used some and intended to sell some.

On Tuesday, Hamilton was sentenced to 12 years in prison.

MINGO JOB CORPS TO HOST COMMUNITY MEETING THIS WEEK

Anyone wanting to learn more about the Mingo Job Corps will have the opportunity to attend an event this week.

The Mingo Job Corps quarterly Community Relations Council meeting will be held at noon on Thursday at the Mingo Job Corps Center outside of Puxico.

This will be an opportunity to visit the center, speak with staff, and hear about recent activities. For more information, call 573-222-3537.

POLICE INVESTIGATING DOZENS OF BREAKING AND ENTERING REPORTS OVER THE PAST WEEK

Police in a Northeast Arkansas town are investigating over two dozen reports of breaking and entering over the past week.

Captain Jason Elms with the Paragould Police Department tells KWOC News that there have been approximately 30 breaking and entering reports in Paragould in the past seven days.

Two vehicles were stolen but have since been recovered. An AR-15 with a fully loaded magazine was also stolen.

Elms says that police officers are working on leads and potential suspects as a part of the investigation.

This is an ongoing story and we will bring you updates as they become available.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN THE FISK AREA

Route 51 in Stoddard and Butler Counties will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route D to Route 60 near Fisk.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

NEELYVILLE LADY TIGERS TO PLAY TONIGHT FOR A SPOT IN THE STATE BASKETBALL QUARTERFINALS

The Neelyville Lady Tigers will take the court tonight with a spot in the Class 2 state basketball quarterfinals on the line.

The Class 2, District 2 Champion Lady Tigers will travel to Malden to face the District 1 Champion Malden Green Wave in the Class 2 State Sectionals.

If Neelyville wins, they will play in the state quarterfinals on Saturday against either St. Vincent or St. Paul Lutheran.

Audio coverage of the State Sectional matchup will be broadcast live tonight on Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM/930 AM, the River Radio Youtube page, and the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page.

Video coverage will be available for a fee at MSHSAA.tv.

SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS WEEK CONTINUES WITH LIGHTNING SAFETY DAY

This week is Missouri Severe Weather Preparedness Week and today the focus is on Lightning safety.

According to the National Weather Service, when a severe thunderstorm threatens, it is often best to follow the same safety rules you follow if a tornado threatens.

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

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

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

Tomorrow the focus will turn to Tornado safety.

MAN ARRESTED ON THREE COUNTS OF RAPE

An investigation by the Arkansas State Crimes Against Children Division and the Paragould Police Criminal Division has resulted in the arrest of an area man on a rape charge.

According to a warrant released by the Paragould Police Department, officials were notified on Saturday of a sexual abuse report involving an underage victim.

The victim disclosed sexual acts that constitute rape by definition of the statute.

52 year old Bryan Gray, of Paragould, was taken into custody on Saturday and is being held on three counts of felony rape.

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE IN STODDARD COUNTY

A Bloomfield woman was taken to an area hospital over the weekend after she was struck by a vehicle.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 24 year old female was hit on Missouri Highway 25 Saturday evening, shortly before 6:30 pm.

The incident occurred one mile north of Aquilla.

The woman suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

CAREER AND TRANSFER CENTER OPEN HOUSE SET FOR THIS WEEK AT THREE RIVERS COLLEGE

Prospective and current students can learn more about the Three Rivers College Career and Transfer Center at an event this week.

The TRC Career and Transfer Center Open House has been scheduled for 9 am to 6 pm today and 9 am to 2 pm tomorrow at the Center on the TRC Poplar Bluff Campus.

The Career and Transfer Center houses the offices of Three Rivers’ university partner, Central Methodist University. Through this partnership, bachelor’s completion programs and master’s programs are offered on the Three Rivers Campus at Poplar Bluff, its locations across Southeast Missouri, and online.

For more information about the Three Rivers Career and Transfer Center, call 573-840-9712.

SIGN TRUSS REPLACEMENTS TO CAUSE OVERNIGHT REDUCTIONS ON US HIGHWAY 60 IN BUTLER COUNTY

Eastbound U.S. Route 60 in Butler County will be reduced overnight this week as construction crews replace sign trusses.

The reduction is located at the intersection of U.S. Route 60 and Business 67 in Poplar Bluff.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 p.m. to 4 a.m. daily through Friday.

Monday, March 3, 2025

THIS WEEK IS MISSOURI SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS WEEK

State and National officials are using this week to encourage Missourians to learn more about severe weather and how to protect themselves.

This week is Missouri Severe Weather Preparedness Week, which will include “Receive Weather Information Day” today, “Lightning Safety Day” on Tuesday, “Tornado Safety Day” on Wednesday, “Hail and Wind Safety Day” on Thursday, and “Flood Safety Day” on Friday.

Missouri’s annual Statewide Tornado Drill will also be held on Wednesday at 11 am. Due to the drill, Butler County EMA Director Robbie Meyers tells KWOC News that the normal tornado siren test will not be conducted today.

For today, officials are urging residents to follow local forecasts anytime severe weather is anticipated. Remember to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, in case one fails or if severe weather strikes overnight.

More information can be found at StormAware.mo.gov.

TWO AREA SCHOOLS ARE CELEBRATING DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIPS

Two area schools are celebrating basketball district championships.

The Puxico Indians defeated Charleston 67-42 Friday night to win the Class 2, District 3 final.

With the win, the Indians will now move on to play the Valley Vikings in the Class 2 sectionals. Tip off is scheduled for 6 pm tonight at Bloomfield High School.

Audio coverage of that game will be broadcast live tonight on Shuffle 92.9, shuffle929.com, and the River Radio Youtube page, as well as the Shuffle 92.9 and Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook pages.

The Neelyville Lady Tigers comfortably handled the Alton Lady Comets 64-43 in the Class 2, District 2 Championship game on Saturday.

Neelyville will travel to Malden on Tuesday to take on the Class 2 District 1 Champion Green Wave. That Sectional matchup will begin at 6 pm.

SOME DONIPHAN RESIDENTS WILL BE WITHOUT WATER TODAY DUE TO WATER MAIN REPAIRS

Some residents in Doniphan will be without water today due to repairs.

According to the City of Doniphan, the Water Department will be conducting water main repairs on Pine Street starting at 8:15 a.m.

Due to the repairs, residents on North Sycamore Street and Pine Street from Vine to Sycamore will be without water for a short period of time.

After the repairs are completed, the same area will be under a precautionary boil water notice until further notice.

Anyone with questions is asked to contact the City of Doniphan Water Office at 573-996-2623 ext 1.

DRONE AND THERMAL IMAGING USED TO FIND SUSPECT IN STOLEN VEHICLE INVESTIGATION

Southeast Missouri law enforcement agencies used hi-tech equipment to find the suspect in a stolen vehicle investigation.

According to the Dunklin County Sheriff’s Office, shortly after 9 pm Thursday night, deputies responded to Malden to assist the Malden Department of Public Safety in a stolen vehicle investigation.

A Dunklin County deputy who was in the area at the time observed the stolen vehicle traveling west on Dunklin County Road 102. When the Deputy attempted to make a stop, the vehicle fled at a high rate of speed, and a pursuit ensued.

The pursuit continued for several miles before the suspect vehicle exited the roadway and the driver fled on foot. With the use of a drone with thermal imaging capabilities, the suspect was located and arrested without incident and transported to the Dunklin County Jail.

The name of the suspect is being withheld pending the filing of formal charges with the Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney's Office.

PRESCRIBED BURNS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A prescribed burn will be done today in Southeast Missouri.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways and the Missouri Department of Conservation are planning to conduct the Vance Barnett Prescribed Burn this morning at 10:00 am.

This burn will cover over 1,100 acres in eastern Shannon County, adjacent to the Current River.

Officials say that the Ozark Trail from Klepzig Mill to Powder Mill will be closed during this operation.

According to the National Park Service, prescribed burning has a variety of purposes, including the reduction of fuel accumulations near developed areas, which helps reduce the threat of unplanned wildland fires in and around Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

MODOT CREWS TO BE WORKING ON CULVERT PROJECT TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Route H in Dunklin County will be reduced today so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can replace a culvert under the roadway.

The work zone will be located from Oak Tree Lane to Deer Run Drive.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY ON ROUTE ZZ IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

The section of roadway is located between County Road 612 and County Road 616.

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

Friday, February 28, 2025

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SCHOOL INVOLVED IN CYBER SECURITY BREACH

A Southeast Missouri school district has been informed that they were involved in a cyber security breach.

According to the Kennett School District, the company PowerSchool recently made the school aware of a breach involving their support portal.

School officials say they don't know the extent of what was taken, but they were notified that the school was involved.

According to the PowerSchool website, the business provides cloud-based software to K-12 schools and this security incident affected some of the districts using the PowerSchool Student Information System product.

Kennett school officials say that parents will be receiving a letter from PowerSchool with more information.

FLORIDA MAN ARRESTED ON STODDARD COUNTY WARRANT FOR MULTIPLE SEX RELATED CHARGES

A Florida man has been taken into custody on a warrant for multiple sex related crimes out of Stoddard County.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 56 year old Harley Nave, of Bradenton, Florida, was arrested this week on a Stoddard County warrant for statutory sodomy 2nd degree, child molestation 1st degree, child molestation 2nd degree, sexual misconduct involving a child, and failure to register as a sex offender.

Nave is being held in custody on no bond.

POPLAR BLUFF CREWS BATTLE FIRE AT STRUCTURE ON CYNTHIA STREET

Poplar Bluff Fire Crews responded to the scene of a fully involved house fire Thursday morning.

The fire was located at a vacant home on Cynthia Street and when crews arrived, the home was fully engulfed in flames.

Crews were on scene for approximately three hours and no injuries were reported.

Officials say that no damage was reported to nearby homes.

POPLAR BLUFF KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS HOSTING FISH FRY TONIGHT

The return of lent also means the return of the Poplar Bluff Knights of Columbus fish fry.

Beginning tonight, the Poplar Bluff chapter of the Knights of Columbus will be hosting a fish fry every Friday from 4 to 7 pm through April 11th.

The fish is all you can eat with adults getting in for $15, while children 12 and under get in for $7. In addition to catfish, there will also be fries, mac n’ cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, hush puppies, and deserts available.

The events will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall at 2280 North Grand Avenue in Poplar Bluff.

SAFETY AND SECURITY UPGRADES FOR POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS IDENTIFIED AS HIGHEST NEED BY CITIZENS ADVISORY COUNCIL

Earlier this month a group of Poplar Bluff Citizens met with architects for Poplar Bluff schools to discuss the school district’s long range plan.

According to school officials, The Citizens’ Advisory Council, which is composed of around 35 patrons including school officials, provided input to assist Dake Wells Architecture in prioritizing projects identified locally for the school system's next 10-year plan.

Officials added that the highest needs identified by the participants were virtually identical to those separately ranked by the Long-Range Planning Committee, which represents a more intimate group of community leaders.

Topped by safety and security upgrades plus expansion of the Early Childhood Center to serve more preschoolers, the priorities are in alignment with the initial projects identified for the no-tax increase levy measure that the Board of Education voted to place on the ballot during Election Day on Tuesday, April 8.

The long-range planning process is anticipated to continue through the fall before a facilities master plan is produced with guidance from the stakeholder groups.

ROUTE AC IN STODDARD COUNTY TO BE CLOSED TODAY

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

The section of roadway is located from Route AA to County Road 223 near Bloomfield.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Thursday, February 27, 2025

TAXPAYERS REMINDED TO TURN IN YOUR 2025 ASSESSMENT LISTS BEFORE THE END OF THE MONTH

February is coming to an end and taxpayers are being reminded to make sure that their 2025 assessment lists are turned in before the end of the month.

According to Deputy Butler County Assessor Kathy Lampe, the Assessment List is used by the county assessor to determine the taxable value of your personal property.

Anyone who does not have their assessment list returned to the assessor’s office by March 1st could be facing penalties.

Butler County residents can also e-file their assessment list online at MoCountyFile.com/butler.

For more information, contact the Butler County Assessor’s office at 573-686-8084.

EUGENE FIELD ELEMENTARY TO HOST CHILI SUPPER AND SILENT AUCTION

A Poplar Bluff Elementary School will be hosting a fundraising event tonight.

Eugene Field Elementary’s annual Chili Supper and Silent Auction has been scheduled for 5 to 7 pm this evening.

The event will be held at Eugene Field Elementary School located at 711 Nickey Street in Poplar Bluff.

TEENAGER FLOWN FROM SCENE OF A CRASH IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A teenager was flown from the scene of a two vehicle crash Wednesday afternoon in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred on US Highway 412 when the teen attempted to overtake a vehicle and struck another vehicle in the rear.

The 17 year old boy suffered serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

KIWANIS PANCAKE DAY SCHEDULED FOR MARCH 1ST

The Kiwanis Club of Poplar Bluff will be hosting a Pancake Day this weekend.

The event will be held on Saturday, March 1st from 6 am to noon at the Poplar Bluff Junior High.

Tickets for the event are $7 per person, which will get you pancakes, sausage, and juice or milk. Carry out will also be available.

Proceeds go to support the Kiwanis Bacon Park.

DEXTER POLICE WARN RESIDENTS TO WATCH OUT FOR FAKE MONEY

If you find any stray 100 dollar bills around the Dexter area, police are advising you to look at it closely.

According to the Dexter Police Department, $100 dollar bills marked “For Motion Picture Purposes” have been found in the area.

Police say that residents should not get too excited about these bills because they are fake. If you find any, you can feel free to dispose of them properly, but do not try to spend them.

ALMOST MONTH LONG CULVERT REPLACEMENT PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route Y in Stoddard and Scott Counties will be closed for almost a month as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace several culverts under the roadway.

The project is located from Route BB in Scott County to Route DD in Stoddard County.

As work is underway, crews will start near Route BB and close small sections of the roadway as work progresses.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Friday, March 21.

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

CREWS RESPOND TO STRUCTURE FIRE IN PIPLAR BLUFF

Emergency crews were on the scene of a structure fire in Poplar Bluff for several hours on Tuesday.

The fire was located at a house near the intersection of Kinzer and Selma.

The home was fully involved and crews worked for several hours to extinguish the fire.

No information has been released on a possible cause for the fire.

PUXICO BOYS DISTRICT BASKETBALL TO BE CARRIED LIVE TONIGHT ON SHUFFLE 92.9

The Puxico Indians journey to a state basketball championship will begin tonight with the Class 2, District 3 semifinals.

Puxico will face Chaffee at 6 pm tonight in Bloomfield. A win tonight will see the Indians advance to the district finals on Friday, where they will take on either Charleston or Oran.

Audio coverage of every Puxico Indians game during the district tournament will be broadcast live on Shuffle 92.9, shuffle929.com, and the River Radio Youtube page, as well as the Shuffle 92.9 and Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook pages.

Video coverage will be available for a fee at mshsaa.tv.

SEX OFFENDER SENTENCED TO OVER 10 YEARS IN FEDERAL PRISON ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGE

A registered sex offender has been sentenced to over 10 years in federal prison on a child pornography charge.

Officials with the United States Attorney’s Office tell KWOC News that 43 year old Thomas Stroud Jr., of Wappapello, was found to have been communicating with a subject in Indiana in March of 2024. During the communications, Stroud obtained several images containing child pornography.

Stroud has a prior federal conviction for possessing images

containing child pornography in 2009.

Officials say that on Tuesday, Stroud was sentenced to serve 130 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to the offense of possession of child pornography.

DONIPHAN MAN SENTENCED TO OVER A DECADE IN PRISON ON DOMESTIC ASSAULT CHARGE

A Doniphan man will be spending over a decade in prison following his guilty plea on a domestic assault charge.

Ripley County Prosecuting Attorney Matt Michel tells KWOC News that 34 year old Giovanni Lane pled guilty in December to Domestic Assault in the First Degree.

Lane admitted to causing serious physical injury to the female victim by repeatedly striking her with a closed fist, a stick, and a chair throughout the day on June 18, 2024.

During the sentencing hearing, the judge received statements from the victim as well as video clips of the defendant assaulting her throughout the day. After arguments were concluded, Lane was sentenced to 15 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections.

Michel says that since Domestic Assault in the First Degree is

considered to be a “Dangerous Felony”, Lane will have to serve 85 percent of his sentence.

HUNTERS AND ANGLERS REMINDED THAT ANNUAL PERMITS EXPIRE AT THE END OF THE MONTH

Missouri annual permits for various game and fish will expire at the end of the month.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is reminding Missouri hunters and anglers that related annual permits expire at the end of February, including 2024 permits for small game, fishing, trout fishing, and combination hunting and fishing.

Anyone wanting to purchase a permit can do so at vendors around the state, online at mdc.mo.gov/BuyPermits, or through MDC’s free mobile apps, MO Hunting and MO fishing.

Commercial and lifetime permits can be purchased only through the MDC Permit Services Unit by calling 573-522-0107 for an application.

PAVEMENT REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY NEAR CAMPBELL

Route H in Dunklin 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 J to Route 53 near Campbell.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Friday.

Tuesday, February 25, 2025

STUDENT DETAINED AFTER BEING FOUND WITH A HANDGUN ON A SCHOOL BUS

An area student has been detained after being found with a handgun on a school bus.

In a statement released Monday night, Twin Rivers R-10 Superintendent Rob Brown says that Monday afternoon a Twin Rivers school bus carrying the 5th and 6th grade boys and girls basketball teams was travelling to Naylor High School when a student reported to a staff member that another student had a handgun in their duffle bag.

The coaching staff immediately gained possession of the duffle bag and confirmed that a gun was inside the bag. The staff contacted school administration and the Ripley County Sheriff’s Department, requesting that a deputy meet the bus at Naylor High School.

The deputy and juvenile officer confiscated the handgun and took statements. The student was transported to the Stoddard County Juvenile Detention Center.

Brown says that the top priority of the Twin Rivers administration is the safety of the students and staff. Brown is commending the members of the coaching staff and the bus driver for their actions during this incident.

Anyone who has questions is asked to contact the Central Office at 573-328-4321.

EAST CARTER GIRLS TO START DISTRICT BASKETBALL CAMPAIGN TONIGHT

Today’s Talk KWOC will be traveling to Van Buren tonight to cover the beginning of the Class 2, District 2 Basketball tournament for the East Carter Lady Redbirds.

Three seed East Carter will be taking on six seed Ellington Lady Whippets at 8 pm tonight in the district quarterfinals.

If the Lady Redbirds win, they will take on the winner of the Alton-Clearwater matchup at 6:30 pm on Thursday.

Also on Thursday, the one seed Neelyville Lady Tigers will face the winner of the game between Greenville and Van Buren.

Live audio coverage of the Lady Redbirds and Lady Tigers games during the district tournament will be carried over the radio on Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM/930 AM as well as on the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page and the River Radio Youtube page. Video coverage will be available for a fee at mshsaa.tv.

FIRE THAT KILLED KENNETT WOMAN RULED ACCIDENTAL

A fire that killed a Kennett woman over the weekend has been ruled an accident.

According to the Kennett Fire Department, at around 2:30 am Saturday morning, fire crews responded to a medical call on David Drive.

At the scene, firefighters encountered flames coming from the rear of the structure.

74 year old Lynn McNutt was found dead at the scene.

Kennett Fire Chief Lance Davis tells KWOC News that the fire originated in the kitchen area and has been determined to have been accidental in nature.

Davis added that the exact cause remains undetermined at this time.

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS HAS DIED

A pedestrian who was struck by a vehicle in Northeast Arkansas over the weekend has died.

According to Captain James Elms with the Paragould Police Department, shortly after noon on Saturday emergency services responded to a vehicle vs pedestrian crash.

A male subject ran out in front of an oncoming truck and was struck.

The man, identified as 24 year old Corey Stayton, of Paragould, died later Saturday night.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH NEAR GREENVILLE

A man was badly injured in a single vehicle crash Saturday morning.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that a 63 year old man from Williamsville was travelling on US Highway 67 at Greenville when his vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway and struck a ditch.

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

TWO ARRESTED ON METH DELIVERY CHARGE IN STODDARD COUNTY

Two men were arrested on meth delivery charges Sunday in Stoddard County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 56 year old Ronald Porter and 53 year old Matthew Vaughan, both of Dexter, were each arrested on a felony charge of delivery of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

Following the arrests, both were held in Stoddard County on 24 hour holds.

Monday, February 24, 2025

MULTIPLE BUSINESSES DESTROYED IN PUXICO FIRE

Multiple businesses were destroyed in a fire over the weekend in Puxico.

According to Puxico Fire and Rescue, 14 area fire departments responded to the area on Saturday to help battle a blaze at the Midway in downtown Puxico.

The fire spread and destroyed nearby businesses before it could be extinguished.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

ONE FOUND DEAD FOLLOWING FIRE IN KENNETT

One person was found dead following an overnight fire in Kennett.

According to the Kennett Fire Department, at around 2:30 am Saturday morning, fire crews responded to a medical call on David Drive.

At the scene, firefighters encountered flames coming from the rear of the structure.

Officials say that one person was found dead.

The name of the deceased has not been released.

The Kennett Fire Department and the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office are conducting an investigation into the fire.

WOMAN FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING CRASH IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Neelyville woman was flown to a regional hospital Friday following a crash near Harviell.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred on Highway 142 at Highway 158 when a vehicle failed to stop at a stop sign and travelled into the path of another vehicle.

A 26 year old passenger in the second vehicle was flown to a St. Louis hospital with moderate injuries. The driver and a second passenger in the second vehicle also received minor injuries.

CARDWELL COMMUNITY CLUB TO HOST SPRING FLING FESTIVAL ON APRIL 12

The Cardwell Community Club will be hosting a festival this spring.

The Spring Fling Festival has been scheduled for 10 am to 2pm on April 12th. The event will include a massive easter egg hunt on the old Cardwell train tracks for kids ages 1 to 12.

There will also be games, a prize booth, and a visit from the Easter Bunny.

More information is available on the Cardwell Community Club Facebook page.

19TH ANNUAL SPECIAL NEEDS DINNER AND SILENT AUCTION SCHEDULED FOR MARCH 1ST

A Southeast Missouri church will be hosting a special event early next month.

The Zalma General Baptist Church 19th Annual Special Needs Dinner and Silent Auction will be held on Saturday, March 1st at the Zalma Church Life Center. Both the dinner and silent auction will begin at 3:30 pm.

The dinner will include chicken and dumplings, mashed potatoes, corn, and more. All proceeds from the event will go to the Church’s Special Needs Fund.

For more information, contact Mandy Talley at 573-225-7424.

ENFORCEMENT OF REAL ID TO BEGIN IN MAY

Anyone who will be taking a flight in the later half of this year will need to make sure that their ID is Real ID compliant.

According to the MIssouri Department of Revenue, the federal Real ID enforcement deadline is May 7th.

Officials say that 41 percent of the Missouri Department of Revenue’s total document holders have a Real ID.

While a final rule issued at the federal level allows federal agencies to utilize a phased-in approach to card-based enforcement for up to two years beyond the May 7 deadline, the Department is encouraging Missourians to be prepared for all possible scenarios.

Individuals will soon be required to present a REAL ID-compliant document for official purposes including, but not limited to, accessing federal facilities and boarding federally regulated domestic flights.

If you plan on flying in the future but do not want to apply for a REAL ID, you can present another Transportation Security Administration approved acceptable form of ID such as your U.S. passport.

A Missouri-issued REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card will have a star in the upper right-hand corner.

You can find more information at dor.mo.gov.

Friday, February 21, 2025

FORMER KENNETT DEPUTY CITY CLERK ARRESTED FOR STEALING ALMOST $80,000 FROM THE CITY

A former Kennett deputy City Clerk has been taken into custody after being accused of stealing almost $80,000 from the city.

Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney Nicholas Jain tells KWOC News that 37 year old Leslie Osorio, now of Paragould, Arkansas has been charged with stealing after a fraud investigation by the Missouri State Auditor’s Office.

In 2022, the City requested the Missouri State Auditor’s office conduct a fraud investigation when the City realized that Osorio’s 2021 Form W-2, reported more than $140,000 in wages.

The Auditor’s Office found that $79,266 was stolen from the city as Osorio overpaid herself and her husband, added and paid herself excess vacation leave, did not withhold money from her paycheck for benefits, and made improper purchases using City funds.

Jain tells us that the State Auditor’s Office did not audit the City of Kennett, but simply investigated whether one previous employee committed fraud.

Osorio was taken into custody on Wednesday and has since posted bond.

19th ANNUAL CHILI COOK-OFF IS THIS WEEKEND

The Mason-Dixon Chili Society’s 19th annual Chili Cook-Off is this weekend.

The event will be held from 11 am to 2 pm on Saturday, February 22nd at the Black River Coliseum. A cook’s party will be held tonight.

Entry will be free to the public and donations will also be accepted.

Proceeds from the Cook-Off go to benefit the United Gospel Rescue Mission.

More information is available on the 19th Annual Chili Cook-Off Facebook page.

SACRED HEART SCHOOL TO HOST FIESTA AUCTION IN APRIL

Sacred Heart School’s 28th Annual Fiesta Auction has been scheduled for this April.

Officials say the event will be held on Saturday, April 5th at the Black River Coliseum in Poplar Bluff.

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

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

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

REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS TODAY FOR THE 2025 OPTIMIST SOCCER LEAGUE IN POPLAR BLUFF

Registration is almost over for the 2025 Poplar Bluff Optimist Soccer League.

Today is the final day for registration for youth in kindergarten through sixth grades and the registration fee is $25.

More information, including how to register, is available on the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation website.

BOOTHEEL YOUTH MUSEUM TO HOST BENEFIT DINNER THIS WEEKEND

A special event has been scheduled this weekend to benefit an area non-profit organization.

The Bootheel Youth Museum in Malden has scheduled their Mardi Gras Benefit Dinner and Auction for 6 to 11 pm on Saturday.

The event will be held at the Museum’s Banquet Hall in Malden.

Anyone wanting to purchase tickets is asked to contact the Museum directly by calling 573-276-3600.

SEMI TRUCK REMOVAL TO FORCE TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF NORTHBOUND INTERSTATE-55 TODAY

Northbound Interstate 55 will be closed this morning so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can work with the Missouri State Highway Patrol to help remove a semi truck from the median. 

The closure will be located between Exits 8 and 14. Traffic will be detoured at Exit 8 to Route H north to Route U. At Route U drivers will turn west back on I-55 at exit 14.

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

Thursday, February 20, 2025

OFFICIALS ANNOUNCE ROAD DIET PLAN CANCELLED FOR PINE STREET IN POPLAR BLUFF

The road diet planned for Business Highway 60 and Pine Street in Poplar Bluff will not be going forward.

According to Poplar Bluff city manager Robert Knodell, after discussions with the Missouri Department of Transportation, the City of Poplar Bluff has agreed to increase the law enforcement presence along Business 60/Pine Street instead of MoDOT reconfiguring the roadway with a road diet.

The original plan would have changed Pine Street from a four lane road to a three lane road including a center turning lane from Route B through 10th street. The plan was later reduced to just being east of the Black River.

Knodell says Mayor Cornman and the City Council wanted to explore other options after receiving feedback from local residents and area businesses regarding the proposed road diet.

Poplar Bluff Police Department Chief Mike McClain has commenced enforcement planning, assignments, and collaboration for enhanced efforts along the roadway.

MoDOT’s upcoming project will now only include resurfacing from Route W to Route B. MoDOT will not pursue plans for a road diet in this location. The roadway will be restriped to maintain its current configuration following the resurfacing project.

EXTREMELY COLD TEMPERATURES THIS MORNING

Area residents are being urged to prepare for brutally cold weather this morning.

According to the National Weather Service, some in our listening area are under a cold weather advisory for this morning while others are under an extreme cold warning.

Overnight lows dropped to around zero degrees, bringing wind chills well into the negatives to start off the morning.

Warming centers have been opened throughout Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas to offer a shelter from the cold.

In Butler County, the Bread Shed will be acting as an overnight warming center from 7 pm to 7 am this week when the temperatures get below 20 degrees.

The Butler County Health Department and Poplar Bluff Library will serve as warming centers during the daytime hours when they are open.

The United Gospel Rescue Mission in Poplar Bluff is also open for men who need a place to stay during the cold weather.

To find warming centers in your area, go to Health.Mo.Gov/warmingcenters.

TRAFFIC STOP LEADS TO DRUG BUST IN VAN BUREN

A traffic stop in Van Buren resulted in a man being behind bars on Tuesday.

According to the Carter County Sheriff’s Office, on Tuesday, Sheriff Bradwell and his K9 Braun, were assisting the Van Buren Police Department with a traffic stop when K9 Braun indicated the presence of narcotics.

Suspected methamphetamine, paraphernalia, money, and a firearm were seized during a search of the vehicle.

Justin Dover, of Clever, was arrested and held pending the filing of formal charges.

4-H PROGRAM FUNDRAISER GOLF TOURNAMENT SET FOR LATE MAY

A fundraising golf tournament for Butler County 4-H has been scheduled for May.

The 4-H Program Fundraiser Golf Tournament will begin at 12:30 pm on Friday, May 30th, at the Ozark Ridge Golf Course in Poplar Bluff.

Registration for the tournament will begin at 11:30 am the day of the event and will cost $400 per team.

To register ahead of time, call 573-686-8064.

MAN ARRESTED ON GUN AND DRUG CHARGES IN CARTER COUNTY

An Ellington man has been taken into custody on gun and drug charges in Carter County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 46 year old Damien Traykovich was arrested Tuesday afternoon on charges of possession of a controlled substance, felon in possession of a firearm, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

Traykovich was held in Carter County following the arrest.

NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED OVER THE NEXT WEEK

Route D in New Madrid County will be closed over the next week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge maintenance.

The bridge involved is located between Route 153 and County Road 531 near Parma.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Thursday, February 27.

Wednesday, February 19, 2025

MULTIPLE INCHES OF SNOW FALLS ON SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Area residents are waking up this morning to what some may consider a winter wonderland.

According to the National Weather Service, multiple inches of snow fell late Tuesday night into Wednesday morning in Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas.

Officials say that roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, have become slick and hazardous. Travel could be very difficult during your morning commute.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS RESIDENTS URGED TO USE CAUTION IF DRIVING DURING WINTER WEATHER

Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas residents are being advised to use extreme caution if they are getting out on the roadways today.

If you must travel while snow is covering the roadways, make sure to have a full tank of gas, extra blankets and gloves, as well as provisions like water and snacks in the event of an emergency. Keep your cellphone charged, but do not use it while driving.

While driving, remember to buckle up, give yourself plenty of extra time to get to your destination, and remember to give snowplows room to work. Don’t tailgate or attempt to pass them. In the event of a crash, stay buckled inside your vehicle until help arrives.

You can find road conditions online by using MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at traveler.modot.org, or through MoDOT’s free smartphone app, available for iPhone and Android phones.

WARMING CENTERS OPEN IN BUTLER COUNTY TO PROVIDE SHELTER FROM THE COLD

Dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills have prompted area warming centers to open for residents.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah,low temperatures near 10 Wednesday morning and lower single digits Thursday morning will cause wind chills to drop below zero. The greatest impacts from the extreme cold will occur Thursday morning.

In Butler County, the Bread Shed will be acting as an overnight warming center from 7 pm to 7 am this week when the temperatures get below 20 degrees.

The Butler County Health Department and Poplar Bluff Library will serve as warming centers during the daytime hours when they are open.

The United Gospel Rescue Mission in Poplar Bluff is also open for men who need a place to stay during the cold weather.

To find warming centers in your area, go to Health.Mo.Gov/warmingcenters.

TIPS FOR GOING OUTSIDE IN COLDER WEATHER

With freezing temperatures here, the CDC is reminding people to be safe if they have to go outside.

Officials say that you should try to stay indoors during extremely cold weather and any trips that you do make outside should be as brief as possible.

If you do go outside, you should try to wear several layers of loose-fitting clothing, a hat, a scarf or knit mask to cover face and mouth, sleeves that are snug at the wrist, and mittens or gloves.

Also do your best to stay dry, as wet clothing chills the body quickly.

Make sure to watch for hypothermia as well. In adults, warning signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion or feeling very tired, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. In babies, signs include bright red, cold skin, and very low energy.

More information is available at cdc.gov.

FOOT PURSUIT IN CLAY COUNTY COMES TO AN END WHEN DEPUTY DEPLOYS TASER

A subject was taken into custody following a foot pursuit last week in Clay County.

Clay County Sheriff Ronnie Cole tells KWOC News that on Friday, a Deputy went to a location on County Road 461 to attempt to serve a felony warrant.

While making contact at the residence, deputies noticed a subject running out the back door and a foot pursuit began.

During the foot pursuit the subject reportedly threw a small baggy with a crystal substance on the ground.

Cole says that when the deputy caught up to the subject, he had to deploy his taser to place the subject in custody.

22 year old Jayger Harmon, of Piggott, was booked in the Clay County Detention Center on charges of possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting arrest, and fleeing.

TRIVIA NIGHT SCHEDULED TO BENEFIT SCHOLARSHIPS FOR TRC STUDENTS

A Trivia Night will be held in Poplar Bluff this month to help fund scholarships for Three Rivers College students.

The Three Rivers Endowment Trust will hold its Poplar Bluff Trivia Night fundraiser on February 27th, at Holiday Inn.

Doors will open for dinner at 5 pm, with trivia starting at 6 pm.

Tables are $150 for a six-person team and will include dinner.

To register or sponsor a team, contact Michelle Reynolds at 573-840-9077.

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FOR SOUTHEAST MISSOURI AND NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas are bracing for a major winter weather event this week.

According to the National Weather Service, a winter storm warning with the possibility of some areas seeing over eight inches of snow falling.

Senior Forecaster Derrick Snyder with the National Weather Service tells us more.

“The National Weather Service office in Paducah, Kentucky, is forecasting an impactful winter storm that will affect the region through Wednesday. All of southeast Missouri is under a Winter Storm Warning, while the rest of the region remains under a Winter Storm Watch. Several inches of heavy snow and travel impacts are likely.

The accumulating snow will spread from northwest to southeast across the region Tuesday afternoon into Tuesday night.

Accumulating snow will end from west to east during the early to mid-morning hours Wednesday.

Following the snow, dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills are expected the latter half of the week. Multiple days with lows in the single digits and wind chill values below zero degrees Thursday morning are forecast.”

TWO FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A CRASH NEAR NEELYVILLE

Two people were flown from the scene of a crash Sunday night in southern Butler County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the crash occurred at around 7:30 pm, on US Highway 67 in the Neelyville area, when a vehicle crossed the center line and struck another vehicle.

The drivers of both vehicles, a 35 year old man from Wappapello and a 25 year old man from Poplar Bluff, were both flown to a St. Louis hospital with serious injuries.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI RESIDENTS URGED TO USE CAUTION IF DRIVING DURING WINTER WEATHER

Southeast Missouri residents are being advised to use extreme caution if they are getting out on the roadways later today or tomorrow during the expected winter weather.

According to the National Weather Service, heavy snowfall is expected to begin at some point this afternoon or evening in Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas.

If you must travel while snow is covering the roadways, make sure to have a full tank of gas, extra blankets and gloves, as well as provisions like water and snacks in the event of an emergency. Keep your cellphone charged, but do not use it while driving.

While driving, remember to buckle up, give yourself plenty of extra time to get to your destination, and remember to give snowplows room to work. Don’t tailgate or attempt to pass them. In the event of a crash, stay buckled inside your vehicle until help arrives.

You can find road conditions online by using MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at traveler.modot.org, or through MoDOT’s free smartphone app, available for iPhone and Android phones.

TIPS FOR MAKING SURE YOUR HOME IS PREPARED FOR COLDER WEATHER

In addition to the expected snow this week, weather officials are predicting a cold snap to drop temperatures to close to zero, so now is the best time to make sure that your home is prepared.

Extreme cold can cause water pipes in your home to freeze and sometimes rupture or break.

When you are expecting very cold or freezing temperatures leave all water taps slightly open so they drip continuously, keep the temperature inside your home warm, and open cabinet doors beneath the kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow heated air to reach pipes.

Use fireplaces, wood stoves, or other combustion heaters only if they are properly vented to the outside and do not leak gas from the flue or exhaust into the indoor air space.

Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements. Make sure to keep them away from any flammable materials, like curtains or blankets.

More tips are available at cdc.gov.

MAN SENTENCED TO OVER TWO DECADES IN PRISON FOR HIS ROLE IN KENNETT SHOOTING

A Southeast Missouri man will be spending over two decades in prison for his role in a 2017 shooting in Dunklin County.

According to the Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, 46 year old Johnny Phillips, of Steele, was convicted in November on charges of assault in the 1st degree, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon.

The charges stem from an incident in Kennett where Phillips pulled a handgun out and shot the victim in the chest during an argument, resulting in the victim being airlifted to the hospital.

Phillips was sentenced to 17 years on the assault charge, three years on the armed criminal action charge, and four years on the weapon charge.

NEW MADRID COUNTY BRIDGE OVER OTTER SLOUGH TO BE REPLACED

Route E in New Madrid County will be closed for over three months as contractor crews replace the bridge over Otter Slough.

The section of roadway being closed is located between County Road 829 and County Road 845 near Morehouse.

Weather permitting, officials say that completion is anticipated by Sunday, May 18. Officials say that the road will remain closed until work is completed.

Monday, February 17, 2025

HEAVY SNOW POSSIBLE FOR THIS WEEK

A light weekend snowfall is looking like a prelude to a much bigger snow storm this week.

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook from the National Weather Service in Paducah,

Accumulating snowfall with travel impacts is becoming increasingly likely Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning.

Many areas in the region could see multiple inches of snow accumulation.

A Winter Storm Watch will be in effect from 3 am Tuesday morning until 9 am Wednesday morning

Dangerous cold conditions are also forecast for much of next week. Officials say that morning wind chill values will be near or below zero Wednesday through Friday.

The weekend rain and snow also resulted in slick and in some cases flooded roads.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON KIDNAPPING AND ASSAULT CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man has been taken into custody on kidnapping and assault charges.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on Thursday, officers responded to a location on Cleveland Street for an assault.

The reporting party alleged that she had been assaulted and held against her will.

30 year old Johnathan Civili, of Poplar Bluff, was arrested and taken to the Butler County Justice Center.

Officials say that charges of kidnapping, assault 3rd degree, and harassment have been sent to the Butler County Prosecutor’s Office.

EAST CARTER, DONIPHAN, AND PUXICO CELEBRATE OFC CHAMPIONSHIPS

Three schools each have claimed an OFC Basketball Championship.

On Friday at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff, Puxico defeated Twin Rivers 77-36 in the Boys Varsity OFC Finals.

For Girls Varsity, Doniphan picked up a 49-33 victory over Neelyville in the tournament finals.

In the Junior Varsity Bracket, East Carter won 52-49 in an exciting matchup with Neelyville.

All three champions were the number one seeds of their respective brackets.

SUBMERGED VEHICLE RECOVERED IN NORTHERN PEMISCOT COUNTY

A submerged vehicle has been recovered in the Missouri Bootheel.

Rescue crews, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol Dive Team, worked to get the vehicle out of Wolf Bayou in northern Pemiscot County on February 7th.

According to the Pemiscot County Sheriff's Office, the vehicle was unoccupied and is believed to have been in the bayou for a long time.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff Joey Higgerson, investigators from his office responded as well due to the vehicle being a possible lead in the Barbara Stoffer missing person case, however the vehicle was not a match to Stoffers.

MAN FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING EARLY MORNING CRASH

An Ellsinore man was badly injured in a single vehicle crash early Friday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 47 year old man was driving on Missouri Highway 21 at Grandin when his vehicle travelled off the right side of the roadway and overturned.

The man suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

WESTWOOD BAPTIST ACADEMY FINISHES IN SECOND PLACE AT STATE BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

A Poplar Bluff area school finished in second place in both the girls and boys Missouri Christian Schools Athletic Association state basketball championship tournament.

The Westwood Baptist Academy girls team fell to Christian Fellowship School 42-31 on Saturday at the MCSAA finals in Joplin.

The WBA Boys team also faced Christian Fellowship School on Saturday, where they lost a hard fought battle 53-49.

Friday, February 14, 2025

PUXICO AND TWIN RIVERS TO MEET TONIGHT WITH OFC CHAMPIONSHIP ON THE LINE

Tonight is Championship night at the Ozark Foothills Conference Basketball tournament.

Three championship games will be played tonight at the Libla Family Sports Complex on the campus of Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

The First game will be the Junior Varsity Final between East Carter and Neelyville at 5 pm.

That game will be followed by the Girls Varsity Championship game featuring Doniphan and Neelyville at 6:30 pm.

The boys Varsity championship game will see Twin Rivers and Puxico tip off at 8 pm.

All three games will be broadcast live on the KWOC Facebook page at facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC and the River Radio Youtube page at youtube.com/RiverRadioPB.

UNOCCUPIED PLANE FLIPPED AT POPLAR BLUFF AIRPORT

A small plane was flipped by a larger aircraft Thursday morning at the Poplar Bluff airport.

Airport Manager Gary Pride tells KWOC News that at around 11 am a twin engine aircraft was doing engine checks and that combined with wind gusts caused the smaller plane to lift into the air and flip over.

Pride said the smaller plane, who shared a pilot with the bigger aircraft, was parked too close and described it as a simple case of being at the wrong place at the wrong time.

The smaller plane was unoccupied at the time of the incident and no one was injured.

FLOOD WATCH TO BE IN EFFECT FOR MISSOURI BOOTHEEL AND PART OF NORTHEAST ARKANSAS THIS WEEKEND

A flood watch will be in effect this weekend for many in the southern part of our listening area.

According to the National Weather Service, heavy rain is likely over much of the region this weekend, with rainfall amounts forecasted to be around one to four inches.

Heavier rains in the Missouri bootheel and northeast Arkansas will lead to possible flash flooding and widespread nuisance flooding.

A Flood Watch has been issued for multiple area counties, including Dunklin, Pemiscot, New Madrid, Clay, and Greene County from midnight Saturday morning to 6 am on Sunday.

PBHS BETA CLUB FATHER DAUGHTER DANCE RESCHEDULED TO APRIL

The Poplar Bluff High School Beta Club father daughter dance has been pushed back to early April.

The Under the Sea Daddy Daughter Dance will now begin with the grand march on Saturday, April 5th at the Poplar Bluff High School Auxiliary Gym.

Tickets are $20 per person and include a full dinner, photo, dancing, ice cream bar, desserts, and more.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the PBHS Beta Club Facebook page.

SEMO SPORTSMAN’S DINNER SCHEDULED FOR MARCH

Preparations are underway for the Southeast Missouri Sportsman’s Association chicken dinner coming up in March

The event will begin at 5 pm on Saturday, March 22nd at the American Legion on PP Highway in Poplar Bluff.

Organizers say there will be a chicken dinner available for $10 a plate as well as entertainment and door prizes.

Proceeds from the event will go to fund the Kid’s Fish and Fun Day.

REGISTRATION STILL AVAILABLE FOR 19th ANNUAL CHILI COOK-OFF IS ALMOST HERE

There is still time to register for the Mason-Dixon Chili Society’s 19th annual Chili Cook-Off.

The event will be held from 11 am to 2 pm on Saturday, February 22nd at the Black River Coliseum. A cook’s party will be held the day before the event.

Proceeds from the Cook-Off go to benefit the United Gospel Rescue Mission.

Entry will be free to the public the day of the event.

More information is available on the 19th Annual Chili Cook-Off Facebook page.

Thursday, February 13, 2025

THIRD PLACE GAMES SET FOR TODAY AT THE OFC BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

After a couple of days off, the Ozark Foothills Conference Basketball tournament will restart today with three third place matchups at Clearwater High School in Piedmont.

The day will start off with the boys junior varsity third place game between Puxico and Twin Rivers at 5 pm.

The second game of the day will be between the Twin Rivers and East Carter girls varsity teams at 6:30 pm.

The final game at 8 pm will feature a match up of the boys varsity teams of Doniphan and Neelyville.

The Championship games will be played on Friday at the Libla Family Sports Complex on the campus of Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

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

PBHS BETA CLUB HOSTING FATHER DAUGHTER DANCE

The Poplar Bluff High School Beta Club will be hosting a father daughter dance this weekend.

The Under the Sea Daddy Daughter Dance will begin with the grand march at 5:30 pm on Saturday, February 15th at the Poplar Bluff High School Auxiliary Gym.

Tickets are $20 per person and include a full dinner, photo, dancing, ice cream bar, desserts, and more.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the PBHS Beta Club Facebook page.

REGISTRATION UNDERWAY FOR POPLAR BLUFF WOMEN’S TENNIS LEAGUE

Tennis players in Poplar Bluff are being encouraged to sign up for a tennis league scheduled to begin next month.

The Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation’s Women’s Tennis League will begin matches on March 1st. Women interested need to be at least 14 years old and able to play full matches unassisted.

Registration is available for $30 through February 21st at pbparks.recdesk.com.

Officials say that they need to have at least four pairs registered to hold the league.

COALITION FOR ROADWAY SAFETY OFFERING GRANTS FOR PROJECT PROM AND GRADUATION

Schools who will be holding Project Prom and Graduation events this year can now apply for grant money to help fund the events.

The Southeast Coalition for Roadway Safety is offering grant funding to local schools that choose student lock-in events for Project Prom or High School graduation. Qualifying schools will receive $200 each to assist with event expenses such as location rental, food or entertainment.

The Southeast Coalition will be accepting applications through February 17th.

For more information, call 573-472-5885 or go online to savemolives.com.

DEXTER CEMETERY ANNUAL SPRING FLOWER REMOVAL SET FOR MARCH 1ST

Dexter residents are being reminded to remove flowers from the Dexter Cemetery by the end of the month.

City officials say that in preparation for spring, the Dexter Street Department will begin their annual Spring Flower Removal at the cemetery beginning on March 1st.

Anyone who does not want their flowers to be discarded should have them removed by that date.

SHOULDER REPAIR PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY ON US HIGHWAY 62

Route 62 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane for over a week so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform shoulder repairs.

The work zone will be located from Route W to Route 153.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, February 21, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

WESTWOOD BAPTIST ACADEMY TO BE PLAYING FOR STATE BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP THIS WEEK

Two Poplar Bluff basketball teams will be playing for state championships this week.

Westwood Baptist Academy are sending both their boys and girls teams to the Missouri Christian Schools Athletic Association Winter Tournament in Joplin.

The boys team is defending back to back MCSAA State Champions. They will tip off their first game of the tournament at 7:30 pm on Thursday against Lighthouse Preparatory Academy out of Jefferson City.

The girls team will start play at 6 pm on Thursday, taking on Center Place Restoration School from Independence.

FOOD PANTRY SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

A free food distribution event for families will be held today in Poplar Bluff.

The ABC Food Pantry has been scheduled for 1 to 2:30 pm this afternoon at the Bread Shed on South D Street.

Attendees are asked to bring their own box, bag, or laundry basket to hold your food.

You can find more information at BreadShed.org.

PUBLIC MEETING POSSIBLE TO DISCUSS INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENT PROJECT IN POPLAR BLUFF

The public is being invited to give their input and possibly request a public meeting for an upcoming intersection improvement project in Butler County.

Officials with the Missouri Department of Transportation tell KWOC News that they are planning to improve the intersection of Route M and County Road 459 in Poplar Bluff.

Work will include flattening the crest of the hill in an effort to improve sight distance at the intersection.

Construction could begin as early as spring 2026, following the Route M resurfacing project. During construction, the roadway will be closed in the vicinity of the intersection for approximately two months.

Any person affected by the project may request that a public meeting be held in regard to the proposed improvements.

For more information, contact MoDOT District Design Engineer Tim Pickett at 573-472-9003. Officials are asking that comments are submitted by February 15.

DEXTER MASONIC LODGE TO HOST SPAGHETTI DINNER

You can get a plateful of spaghetti this weekend and also help Dexter students get backpacks.

The Dexter Masonic Lodge will be hosting their annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser from 4 to 7 pm on Saturday, February 15th.

The fundraiser will be at the First Church of God in Dexter. Entry is $10 and will get you all you can eat spaghetti, garlic bread, salad, and a drink.

The event helps fund the backpack program at the local school.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAYS

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

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

Stations will also be closed on Monday, February 17th for Washington’s Birthday.

CONTRACT AWARDED FOR PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

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

According to officials, an over 2.2 million dollar contract was awarded to Apex Paving Company, for pavement preservation treatments on various routes in Stoddard, Dunklin, New Madrid, and Scott Counties.

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.

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

MAN IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO STABBING INVESTIGATION

Police in Poplar Bluff have taken a man into custody in connection to a stabbing investigation.

According to Poplar Bluff Police Chief Michael McClain, at approximately 10:39 pm on Sunday, officers responded to Casey’s General Store on East Pine Boulevard for a stabbing.

At the scene, officers contacted a 40-year-old white female who was suffering from multiple stab wounds. The victim told officers that she did not know who attacked her.

She was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital before being flown to a separate hospital for treatment.

During an investigation into the incident, police identified 33 year old Timothy Bishop, of Poplar Bluff, as a suspect.

An interview was conducted where Bishop indicated the attack was random and that he had no prior contact with the victim. He was lodged in the Butler County Justice Center on the charges of assault 1st degree, armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon, and tampering with physical evidence.

WOMAN IN CUSTODY ON MULTIPLE CHARGES FOLLOWING PURSUIT IN POPLAR BLUFF

A woman is in custody following a weekend pursuit in Butler County.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on Sunday officers were dispatched to a location on North Westwood Boulevard in reference to property damage and trespassing.

At the scene, officers attempted to stop a suspect, at which time a vehicle pursuit ensued.

Officers were able to stop the vehicle a short time later and take 34 year old Annaleah Ross, of Poplar Bluff, into custody.

Officials say that charges for assault 1st, careless and imprudent driving, speeding, property damage, resisting arrest, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a controlled substance were sent to the Butler County Prosecutor's Office.

MODOT TO MOVE FORWARD WITH PLAN TO ADD A DEDICATED TURN LANE ON PINE STREET IN POPLAR BLUFF EAST OF BLACK RIVER

Missouri Department of Transportation officials have confirmed that plans are in motion to add a dedicated turn lane on Pine Street/Business 60 in Poplar Bluff.

Officials say that MoDOT will move forward with providing a dedicated center left turn lane on Pine Street, east of the Black River.

The new configuration east of the Black River will include updating the section of undivided 4-lane roadway to a 3-lane with one eastbound lane, a center turn lane and one westbound lane.

In addition to reducing rear-end collisions, the updated striping plan will provide wider driving lanes, which will create an easier, more comfortable drive for motorists.

This safety project will be completed in conjunction with a resurfacing project, which will occur from Route W to Route B. The resurfacing project is anticipated to be let in April 2025, with completion of the project anticipated in fall 2026.

NINE YEAR OLD CHILD FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A CRASH IN RIPLEY COUNTY

A single vehicle crash resulted in a child being flown to a regional hospital over the weekend.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at around 4:30 pm Sunday on Highway T when a vehicle ran off the left side of the roadway and struck a tree.

A nine year old passenger in the vehicle suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

The driver, a 41 year old man from Naylor, received minor injuries and was taken to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

HEARTS IN THE PARK SET FOR THIS WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF

Hendrickson Park in Poplar Bluff will be covered in hearts this week thanks to a special event.

The Poplar Bluff Library and PB Parks and Recreation are teaming up for the Hearts in the Park hunt on February 13th and 14th.

Maps and crayons can be picked up at the Poplar Bluff Library before participants join the hunt. If you find all of the hidden hearts scattered throughout Hendrickson Park you can earn a prize.

Prizes can be picked up at either the Parks Office or the Library.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route ZZ in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation Crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

Officials say that the work zone is located from Route 60 to County Road 616.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Friday.

Monday, February 10, 2025

MAN FACING ROBBERY CHARGE FOLLOWING INCIDENT AT NAYLOR AREA BANK

Authorities responded to a reported bank robbery on Friday at a bank in the Naylor area.

According to Ripley County Sheriff Rad Talbert, deputies and Missouri State Highway Patrol Troopers responded to People’s Community Bank in Naylor at around 8:45 am Friday for a report of a robbery.

Employees told deputies that they recognized the suspect as a frequent customer.

Later on Friday, authorities located the suspect, 32 year old Dalvin Lawrence, of Naylor, at his residence, where he was arrested without incident.

Lawrence is being held in the Ripley County Jail on a charge of robbery 1st degree.

THREAT OF WINTER WEATHER FORCES CHANGES AT OFC BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

The possibility of winter weather is forcing the rescheduling of part of the semifinal rounds of the Ozark Foothills Conference Basketball Tournament.

The semifinals for both the boys Varsity and Junior Varsity will be played tonight at Clearwater High School.

The semifinals of the Girls tournament will be played tonight at Greenville High School.

The championship games are still scheduled to be played on Friday at the Libla Family Sports Complex on the campus of Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

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

MULTIPLE AREA COMMUNITIES AWARDED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANTS

Multiple Southeast Missouri communities will be able to go ahead with projects after being awarded grant money.

The Department of Economic Development has announced it has awarded a total of more than $25 million to 52 projects across the state through its Community Development Block Grant Program to assist with various improvement projects.

Funded projects include street and roadway repairs, stormwater and drainage improvements, demolition of dilapidated structures, and construction of new public facilities.

Area cities to be chosen for grants include Advance, Clarkton, Fisk, and Qulin, who will all receive over $500,000 for street repairs, or in Qulin’s case, an expansion to the Senior Citizen Center.

Butler County was also awarded almost $200,000 for street repairs.

RECORD NUMBER OF PEDESTRIAN FATALITIES RECORDED LAST YEAR IN MISSOURI

There was good news and bad news included in a recent report on roadway fatalities by the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety.

According to preliminary data, 954 fatalities occurred on Missouri roadways in 2024. This is a decrease of 4 percent when compared to 2023, and a decrease of 10 percent compared to 2022.

Officials say that distracted driving contributed to more than 100 deaths in both 2023 and 2024, and statistically, more than half of the victims are someone other than the distracted driver.

While overall roadway fatalities were down, a record number of pedestrian fatalities occurred in 2024, with 148 pedestrians being struck and killed. This is a 16 percent increase from 2023.

A notable percentage of the pedestrian fatalities were individuals who exited their vehicle due to a prior crash or breakdown on the side of the road.

SIGN REPLACEMENTS TO CAUSE DELAYS OVER TWO WEEKS IN POPLAR BLUFF AREA

Eastbound U.S. Route 60 in Butler County will be reduced starting today as construction crews replace sign trusses.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway affected is located at the intersection of U.S. Route 60 and Business 67 in Poplar Bluff.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday, February 21.

SHOULDER REPAIR PROJECT SET FOR EARLY THIS WEEK ON ROUTE B IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route B in Butler County will be reduced to one lane for two days this week so MoDOT crews can perform shoulder work.

The project is located from Route Z to County Road 581.

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

Friday, February 7, 2025

NEW POPLAR BLUFF CITY MANAGER MEETS WITH PUBLIC

Poplar Bluff residents got a chance to meet their new city manager Thursday night.

City Manager Robert Knodell conducted a meet and greet with area residents at the Black River Coliseum.

Speaking with KWOC News, Knodell spoke about the great people in the Poplar Bluff community and what a great place to live Poplar Bluff is.

Knodell also spoke about the potential of the city with the Future Interstate-57 project and other things that could help everyone pull together and take the community to the next level.

The meet and greet was attended by numerous area residents as well as city leaders.

Knodell was appointed to the City Manager position in December by a unanimous vote of the Poplar Bluff City Council and officially began his tenure as City Manager on January 27th.

OFC BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT TO BE BROADCAST ON KWOC FACEBOOK AND YOUTUBE PAGES

The 2025 Ozark Foothills Conference basketball tournament is set to begin tonight

The tournament, featuring eight area schools, will begin with three Junior Varsity games tonight at Clearwater High School in Piedmont starting at 5 pm. A full slate of nine games is scheduled for Saturday

The championship games will be played on Friday, February 14th at the Libla Family Sports Complex on the campus of Three Rivers College.

Every game of the tournament, including boys’ varsity and junior varsity games along with girls’ 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.

OPENING TIME FOR PBHS BUILDING TO BE ALTERED LATER THIS MONTH

With the upcoming safety and security measures coming to Poplar Bluff High School, officials have confirmed that they will be adjusting the building opening times.

Beginning on February 19th, the High School will not open its doors until 7 am. Start and end times for classes are not being changed, school will begin at 7:45 am and end at 3 pm.

Athletes who have early morning practices will meet their coaches at specific entrances.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL HEALTH CARE CAREER FAIR SCHEDULED FOR TODAY

Poplar Bluff High School students will get to learn about careers in the Health Care field during a fair scheduled today.

PBHS will host its annual Health Care Career Fair from 8:40 to 10:40 a.m. at the PBHS Gymnasium.

The event is for students interested in exploring the medical career field.

This is the second year for the Health Care Career Fair, which was started last year to expose students to lucrative careers in the health care industry, and help combat the nursing shortage in Butler County.

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, February, 11th.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE PROJECT UNDERWAY ON INTERSTATE 155

North and Southbound Interstate 155 will be reduced to one lane over the next two months as construction crews perform bridge maintenance over the Mississippi River.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the northbound lanes will be reduced with a 14-foot width restriction while the southbound lane will have a 10-foot width restriction.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Monday, April 7. The work zone will remain in place until the work is completed.