Friday, May 9, 2025

PBHS PRINCIPAL NAMED MoASSP REGIONAL PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR

The principal of Poplar Bluff High School has been named the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals regional Principal of the Year.

According to school officials, Southeast Region officers surprised Dr. Valerie Ivy with the award alongside the superintendent cabinet and members of the principal’s family during a schoolwide assembly for spring sports in the gymnasium.

Ivy will be recognized again in September during the organization's conference in Columbia.

According to MoASSP, the selection committee seeks an educator who demonstrates creativity and has a positive impact on the school system; ensures the school climate reflects high morale; is willing to take risks to improve student learning; moves actively to implement the building's objectives; works collaboratively; anticipates emerging problems; and engages the community.

Ivy has served as an administrator at PBHS since 2017, spending the last three years in her current role after having worked her way up from assistant principal.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL PLAYER SELECTED FOR ALL STAR GAME

A Poplar Bluff High School baseball player has been selected to play in a statewide All-Star series this summer.

Noah Spain was chosen to play in the 2025 Missouri High School Baseball Coaches Association Senior All-Star Series game on Saturday, June 14th.

The game between the Class 5 and Class 6 Seniors will be played at Southern Boone High School in Ashland.

The All-Star Series are three games made up of the best senior baseball players from each of the six classes in the state of Missouri.

EMINENCE MAN DROWNS IN JACKS FORK RIVER

An Eminence man has died after falling into the Jack’s Fork River in Shannon County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 69 year old man fell into the water at around 1:30 pm Thursday, was unable to resurface, and was swept downstream by the current.

The man was later pronounced dead by the Deputy Shannon County Coroner.

TRC COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY SCHEDULED FOR TONIGHT

The 57th Annual Three Rivers College Commencement ceremony is scheduled for tonight in Poplar Bluff.

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

The Commencement Address will be provided by Presiding Circuit Judge Kacey Proctor, the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient.

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

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CITY AWARDED GRANT TO EVALUATE ITS WASTEWATER SYSTEM

A Southeast Missouri city will be receiving grant money to help improve the city’s infrastructure.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded a $62,500 Clean Water Engineering Report Grant to the city of Qulin to evaluate its wastewater system.

Qulin will use the grant to identify improvements that will enable the system to continue meeting water quality standards and provide reliable service, as well as to reduce stormwater infiltration into sewer collection pipes.

The facility plan should be complete in December 2026.

AREA LETTER CARRIERS TO COLLECT FOOD FOR LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES

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

Saturday, May 10th will mark the 33rd anniversary of the National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger food drive.

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

The donations will go directly to local food pantries.

2025 SARAH JARBOE WHITE UCAN WALK COMING UP THIS WEEKEND

This weekend will bring the 2025 Sarah Jarboe White UCAN walk back to Poplar Bluff.

According to the United Cancer Assistance Network, the annual walk will be held on Saturday, May 10th, beginning at 9:30 am at the Danny Bell Cancer Center.

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

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

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

MAY DAY FUNKY SOCK 5K SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

A funky 5k run is set for this weekend in Poplar Bluff.

The May Day Funky Sock 5k has been scheduled for Saturday. Check-in will begin at 9:30 am at Hendrickson Park, with the run starting at 10 am.

The cost to enter is $10 and walk up registrations will be accepted.

More information is available on the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation facebook page.

Thursday, May 8, 2025

KWOC’S FRANKIE AND CHANCE CASTEEL HONORED FOR THEIR WORK KEEPING THE AREA SAFE DURING STORMS

KWOC’S own Frankie Casteel has been honored by the state of Missouri for his weather coverage.

Both Frankie, and his son Chance, were presented a resolution Wednesday by Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe and Missouri State Representative Hardy Billington, honoring them for their efforts informing the public during the recent severe weather and tornadoes that affected the area.

Frankie and Chance both were in Jefferson City Wednesday to accept the resolution and talk with the Governor.

DUDLEY WOMAN ARRESTED ON METH DISTRIBUTION CHARGE IN WAYNE COUNTY

A woman has been taken into custody in Wayne County on drug related charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 56 year old Loretta Barnett, of Dudley, was arrested Tuesday night on charges of distribution of a controlled substance - methamphetamine and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Barnett also reportedly had a felony warrant out of Stoddard County for possession of a controlled substance.

Following the arrest, she was held at the Wayne County Jail.

MULES BASEBALL TEAM TO HOST FUNDRAISING GOLF TOURNAMENT

The Poplar Bluff Mules Baseball team will be hosting a fundraising golf tournament this weekend.

The event has been scheduled for 12:30 pm on May 10th at the Ozark Ridge Golf Course in Poplar Bluff.

Registration will begin at 11:30 am and teams can register the day of the event. The cost is $75 per person or $300 per four person team.

For more information, contact Deanna Bratcher at 573-429-9062.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE CLOSED ON MULTIPLE DATES THIS MONTH

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

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

Driver Examination Stations will also be closed on Monday, May 26th, for Memorial Day.

DEADLINE COMING UP TO PURCHASE TAGS FOR BULKY ITEM PICKUP

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

Residents can purchase bulk item tags from the City Collector’s office at City Hall for $20. The tags entitle you to the removal of four bulk items, such as couches or refrigerators.

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

Friday is the final day to purchase item tags at City Hall to be included in next week’s pick up, which will be conducted on Tuesday, May 12th.

DRAINAGE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS IN THE DEXTER AREA

Route F in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane for a week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform drainage repairs. 

The work zone is located from Route 60 to County Road 468 near Dexter.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Thursday, May 15.

Wednesday, May 7, 2025

MEASLES CASE CONFIRMED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

State officials have confirmed a case of measles located in Southeast Missouri.

Officials with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services have confirmed that a case of measles has been located in an adult resident of New Madrid County.

Exposure is believed to be limited, and known contacts are being identified and contacted. There is no indication of widespread public exposure.

The case is not linked to the prior case or prior exposures reported in Missouri.

More information about measles and county-level MMR vaccination rates can be found at Health.Mo.Gov/Measles.

MAN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A CRASH IN BUTLER COUNTY

One man was flown from the scene of a crash Tuesday morning in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at around 10:30 am on Highway 158 in Harviell when a vehicle ran off the side of the roadway before hitting a ditch and a utility pole.

The driver, a 75 year old man from Caruthersville, suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

EARTHQUAKE RECORDED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

An earthquake shook parts of Southeast Missouri Tuesday morning.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.3 earthquake was recorded at 5:24 am on Tuesday.

The quake was centered approximately 19 miles southeast of Kennett and had a depth of over three miles.

FILING TO BEGIN FRIDAY FOR BOLLINGER COUNTY SHERIFF SPECIAL ELECTION

Filing is set to begin this week for an upcoming special election in Bollinger County.

The Bollinger County Commission has announced that a special election will be held on Tuesday, July 8th for the purpose of electing a sheriff for the unexpired term.

Former Sheriff Casey Graham announced last month that he would step down on May 1st.

Candidates can file for the election beginning at 8 am on Friday. The final day of filing will be on Tuesday, May 20th.

DUNKLIN COUNTY IS THE LATEST TO EARN MISSOURI BLUE SHIELD DESIGNATION

Another southeast Missouri community has earned the Missouri Blue Shield designation.

County officials say that Dunklin County has officially received the Missouri Blue Shield designation, recognizing the community for its commitment to enhancing public safety and supporting law enforcement.

Dunklin County now joins Carter County, along with the cities of Kennett and Malden, in the program.

Achieving the Blue Shield designation allows communities to access state grants for law enforcement training and equipment.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE CLOSURE TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

The section of roadway being closed is located from Route AB to County Road 593.

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

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

MAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE WHILE RIDING LAWN MOWER NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

A man riding a lawn mower was struck by a vehicle over the weekend near Poplar Bluff.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 46 year old man from St. Louis was riding the mower on Highway T shortly after 11 pm Saturday night when he was struck by a vehicle from behind.

The mower then ran off the side of the road and struck a tree.

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

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2025 POPLAR BLUFF SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAM

There is still time for parents to get their children registered for Summer School in Poplar Bluff.

Officials say that this year’s summer school will be held Monday through Friday from May 28th through June 25th and is an opportunity for students to earn back credits lost due to low attendance and/or failing classes during the regular school year.

Free breakfast and lunch will be provided for summer school students. Driver’s Education classes will also be available.

Parents have until this Friday to register their children for Summer School. You can find a link to register on the Poplar Bluff Middle School Facebook page.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE SPRING CONCERT SET FOR TONIGHT

Three Rivers College students will be sharing music with the community at a performance tonight.

The TRC Music Department Spring Concert has been scheduled for 7 pm at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center. Admission is free.

The Three Rivers College Symphonic Band and Jazz Band, as well as the Collegiate Choir will perform a variety of musical gems.

For more information, contact the Three Rivers College Music Department at 573-840-9639.

STATE OFFICIALS CAUTION RESIDENTS TO WATCH OUT FOR TEXT SCAMS

Missouri state officials are warning residents to be on the lookout for ongoing nationwide text scams.

The Missouri Department of Revenue has received a large increase in calls reporting phishing texts. These texts are often threatening, claiming to be from the Missouri Department of Revenue or Department of Motor Vehicles and may include a warning regarding unpaid traffic violations, outstanding toll charges, or fines owed.

Officials say that these texts are not from the Missouri Department of Revenue and are not legitimate. The department will not send requests for payment or request personal information via text message.

If you receive one of these phishing texts, do not click on any links or respond. Just delete the text.

CARTER AND REYNOLDS COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THIS WEEK FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT

Route D in Reynolds and Carter Counties will be closed this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The closure is located from County Road 123 to Route 21.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN THE LILBOURN AREA

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

The work zone is located from Route H near Canalou to Route D near Lilbourn.

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

Monday, May 5, 2025

OVER $164,000 RAISED DURING THE 2025 RIVER RADIO ST. JUDE RADIOTHON

Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas have come together to help the kids at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The final total for the 2025 River Radio St. Jude Radithon on May 1st and 2nd was $164,589.

The total includes individual donations, collections from businesses and local events and the 246 people who decided to become partners in hope.

It is not too late for you to help the kids at St. Jude, you can find a link to donate on our website.

FEDERAL DISASTER DECLARATION REQUESTED IN CONNECTION TO EARLY APRIL STORMS

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has requested that President Donald Trump approve a major disaster declaration to provide federal assistance in a total of 26 Missouri counties.

The request is in response to the severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that caused widespread destruction across the state from March 30 to April 8. Six deaths were confirmed due to severe storms during the period.

Based on the documented damage and emergency response costs, Governor Kehoe is also requesting FEMA Individual and Public Assistance for multiple counties including Butler, Carter, Dunklin, New Madrid, Ripley, Stoddard, and Wayne. Pemiscot County was only included in the request for Public assistance.

Joint damage assessments conducted by FEMA, SEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and local officials estimate more than $25.5 million in emergency response costs and damage to public infrastructure.

Eighteen of the 26 counties included in this request for a federal disaster declaration were also included in a federal disaster request made by Governor Kehoe on April 2.

Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.

SHAYNE TALBURT PROMOTED TO MSHP LIEUTENANT IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

There is a new member of the Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop E command staff in Southeast Missouri.

Captain Jason Cluver, commanding officer of Troop E has announced the promotion of sergeant Shayne Talburt to the rank of lieutenant.

Talburt was appointed to the Patrol in January of 2008. Since 2021, he has served as sergeant and supervisor of marine operations for Troop E.

CITY OF MALDEN IS THE LATEST TO EARN MISSOURI BLUE SHIELD DESIGNATION

A southeast Missouri community has earned the Missouri Blue Shield designation.

City officials say that Malden has officially received the Missouri Blue Shield designation, recognizing the community for its commitment to enhancing public safety and supporting law enforcement.

Last month, both the city of Kennett and Carter County were among the first in the state to be included in the program.

Achieving the Blue Shield designation allows communities to access state grants for law enforcement training and equipment.

BRIDGE APPROACH REPAIRS TO CAUSE ISSUES FOR LARGE TRUCKS AND FARM EQUIPMENT TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route Y in Stoddard County will be closed today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge approach repairs.

The section of roadway affected is located from Route N to County Road 585 near Bell City. Officials say that while the roadway will be open to local passenger vehicle traffic, large trucks and farm equipment should seek alternate routes while work is underway.

Weather permitting, work will be performed from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

MODOT CREWS TO CLOSE DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD EARLY THIS WEEK FOR BRIDGE MAINTENANCE

Route 164 in Dunklin County will be closed for the early part of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The closure is located in the Rives area, from Route PP to Route TT.

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

Wednesday, April 30, 2025

FIVE INJURED, ONE SERIOUSLY, IN CRASH ON US HIGHWAY 60

Five people were injured in a two vehicle crash Tuesday morning in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred on US Highway 60, seven miles east of Poplar Bluff, when a vehicle struck another vehicle, causing the second vehicle to run off the roadway and overturn.

The driver of the first vehicle, a 40 year old male from Charleston, suffered serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

Four people in the second vehicle received minor injuries and were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

JEREMY DAVID GREEN APPOINTED AS NEW MADRID POLICE CHIEF FOLLOWING RESIGNATION OF SHANE GRISSOM

New Madrid citizens have a new police chief.

On Monday, Shane Grissom announced that he was resigning as the Chief of Police for the city of New Madrid. Grissom says the decision was made in the interest of his family and himself, and that he will continue to serve as Fire Chief and as a part-time patrol officer.

City officials announced Monday night that Jeremy David Green will take over as Police Chief. Green is a veteran of the United States Army, and has served various roles in law enforcement for 30 years.

SACRED HEART SCHOOL TO HOST FIESTA AUCTION THIS WEEKEND

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

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

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

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

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

PRAYER BREAKFAST SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY AT UNITED GOSPEL RESCUE MISSION IN POPLAR BLUFF

Poplar Bluff residents and community leaders will be coming together tomorrow for the National Day of Prayer.

A special prayer breakfast has been scheduled for 7 am to 8:30 am on Thursday at the United Gospel Rescue Mission on South Broadway in Poplar Bluff.

The event is free and all Butler County residents are invited to attend.

8TH ANNUAL DONIPHAN CLEAN UP SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEKEND

An event has been scheduled for this weekend to help clean up the city of Doniphan.

The 8th Annual Doniphan City Clean Up will be held on Saturday, from 9 am to noon for Doniphan City residents.

The drop off will be at a dump site located beside the Old Fred’s Parking lot and no tires will be accepted.

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

25th ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT SET FOR FRIDAY

The 25th Annual Poplar Bluff School Foundation Golf Tournament is coming up this week.

The four person scramble tournament is scheduled for Friday at Ozark Ridge Golf Course. Tee time will be at noon.

All proceeds from the event will go towards the foundation scholarship fund and other educational opportunities.

If you would like more information or want to be a sponsor, contact Carla Thompson at 573-785-7751 extension 5.

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

NEW MADRID AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR MISSING/POSSIBLY ENDANGERED PERSON

Authorities in New Madrid are searching for a missing person who may be endangered.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Office, deputies are assisting the New Madrid Police Department with a missing person investigation involving Caleb Powell, of New Madrid.

Powell is a white male who was last seen wearing a dark-colored t-shirt and dark pants. He was last seen driving a gray Chevrolet Silverado with a Missouri license of 9CF C81.

Anyone who has information on Powell’s whereabouts is asked to contact the New Madrid Police Department at 573-748-5901 or call 911.

WAPPAPELLO WOMAN ARRESTED ON DRUG TRAFFICKING CHARGE

A Wappapello woman was taken into custody over the weekend on multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Sara Allen was arrested Sunday afternoon in Stoddard County on felony charges of trafficking of methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance.

Allen is also facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrest, she was held at the Stoddard County Jail.

OPEN ENROLLMENT AVAILABLE FOR POPLAR BLUFF KINDERGARTEN CENTER

It is time to get your child enrolled for kindergarten this fall at the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center.

According to Poplar Bluff School officials, children who will be five years old on or before July 31st, 2025 are eligible to enroll for the 2025-2026 school year.

Parents are asked to bring a proof of residency along with the child’s birth certificate and shot record.

Parents can visit mules.me/enroll for more information and to schedule a registration appointment.

MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON FIREARM AND DRUG CHARGES

Authorities have arrested a man in Butler county on drug and firearm charges.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 56 year old Danny Duff, of Oxly, was taken into custody Sunday afternoon on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine, along with charges of driving while intoxicated - drugs and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Duff was held at the Butler County Jail following the arrest.

JOSH BURSON MEMORIAL CRAWFISH BOIL SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

You can enjoy all you can eat crawfish and help local students' education at an event this weekend.

The Josh Burson Memorial Crawfish Boil is scheduled for Saturday, May 3rd, at the Grotto in Poplar Bluff.

Food will be available starting at 2 pm, with tickets for all you can eat crawfish available for $60. For kids ages 4-10 or anyone who doesn’t want crawfish, tickets are $20.

There will also be an auction and raffle starting at 4 pm.

All proceeds from the event will go towards the Josh Burson Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Tickets must be prepurchased, for more information call Sarah Hobbs at 573-776-3709 or Gwen Horner at 573-714-2811.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING SHOOTING IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Authorities in Southeast Missouri are investigating an incident where multiple people were shot over the weekend.

According to Charleston DPS Director Robert Hearnes, at around 1:30 am Saturday morning, officers were notified of a person shot near the intersection of Lee and Vine Street in Charleston.

During an investigation of the incident, it was determined that the shooting took place on Oliver Street, and that three people had been shot.

All three people were transported to area hospitals with serious injuries and their current conditions were not released.

The incident is still under investigation and anyone with information related to the shooting is asked to contact the Charleston DPS at 573-683-3737.

Monday, April 28, 2025

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

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

The tournament, featuring seven area schools, will begin today on the campus of Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

Today’s lineup will include 3 seed Twin Rivers battling 6 seed Puxico at 1:30 pm, followed by 4 seed Doniphan taking on 5 seed East Carter at 3:30 pm, and finishing with a matchup between 2 seed Clearwater and 7 seed Naylor at 5:30 pm.

Number one seed Neelyville received a first round bye.

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

NEW TRC COMMUNITY CHOIR TO PERFORM TONIGHT

The new Three Rivers College Community Choir will be putting on a performance tonight.

The Three Rivers College Patrons of the Arts is presenting the new Community Choir at 7 p.m. at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

The choir features local singers who will be performing a wide variety of musical styles, from classical to theatrical to popular to sacred.

Admission is free, but you must reserve seats. You can get the free tickets at the TRC Student Accounts Office, the Tinnin Art Gallery, and online at tinnin.ticketleap.com.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CITY AWARDED GRANT TO EVALUATE ITS WASTEWATER SYSTEM

A Southeast Missouri city will be receiving grant money to help improve the city’s infrastructure.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded a $50,000 Clean Water Engineering Report Grant to the city of Malden to evaluate its wastewater system.

Malden will use the grant to identify improvements that will enable the system to continue meeting water quality standards and providing reliable service, as well as to reduce stormwater infiltration into sewer collection pipes.

The facility plan should be complete in December 2026.

ENFORCEMENT OF REAL ID TO BEGIN MAY 7TH

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.

Beginning that day residents of every U.S. state and territory will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, or another form of ID accepted by the Transportation Security Administration, to board 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.

Also beginning May 7th, individuals must present a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, or another form of acceptable ID, to access federal facilities and to enter nuclear power plants.

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.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SET 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 is located from Route H near Canalou to Route D near Lilbourn.

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

PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THIS WEEK FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT

Route DD in Pemiscot County will be closed this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can replace a culvert under the roadway.

The section of roadway being closed is located from County Road 551 to County Road 570.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Thursday.

Friday, April 25, 2025

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL DISTRICT AWARDED GRANT FOR SCHOOL BASED THERAPIST

The Poplar Bluff School District school-based therapist will be able to get additional certification thanks to a grant.

According to school officials, the District has been awarded an $8,000 competitive grant to certify its school-based therapist in play therapy, a research-developed intervention designed for young students.

A total of a dozen schools and organizations in rural communities throughout central and southern Missouri recently received a quarter-million dollars through the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, in partnership with the Louis L. and Julia Dorothy Coover Charitable Foundation.

Jodi Powell, the district's licensed therapist, will begin the training through the Heartland Play Therapy Institute in Kansas City in February. Besides ancillary expenses for travel, the remaining funds will be used to purchase play therapy supplies such as feeling charts, games and interactive toolkits.

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 this weekend.

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

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

THREE RIVERS SHRINE CLUB KIDS DAY COMING UP THIS WEEKEND

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

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

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

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

TWO PEOPLE ARRESTED IN STODDARD COUNTY ON METH CHARGES

Two people were taken into custody Wednesday evening in Stoddard County on felony meth charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 24 year old Chelsea Lee, of Sikeston, was arrested shortly after 6:30 pm on charges of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine, endangering the welfare of a child, and driving while intoxicated with a child less than 17 in the vehicle.

Less than 15 minutes later, troopers in Stoddard County arrested 43 year old Richard Wilkins, of Poplar Bluff, on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

It was not released if the two arrests were connected to each other.

PBHS TENNIS TEAM TO HOST FUNDRAISING PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT

The Poplar Bluff High School Tennis Team will be hosting a fundraising pickleball tournament this weekend.

The tournament has been scheduled for 9 am on Saturday at Poplar Bluff Middle School. Registration is available for $30 per team at pbparks.recdesk.com.

All proceeds from the event will go to the Poplar Bluff High School Tennis Team.

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

CREWS INSTALLING LIGHTS AT ROUTE PP AND SHELBY ROAD INTERSECTION

Poplar Bluff motorists are advised to watch for crews along PP Highway.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route PP in Butler County may be impacted as contractor crews install lights at the intersection of Route PP and Shelby Road.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Monday, May 12.

Thursday, April 24, 2025

POPLAR BLUFF MAN TO APPEAR IN COURT TODAY ON CHILD MOLESTATION CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man is scheduled to appear in court today following his arrest on child molestation charges.

According to a probable cause affidavit, 42 year old Joshua Hensley is accused of having inappropriate contact with a victim who was less than fourteen years of age.

Hensley has been charged with three counts of 1st degree child molestation and a warrant was served for his arrest on Tuesday.

He is scheduled to make his initial appearance in a Butler County Courtroom this morning.

No bond has been set.

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

The Ozark Foothills Conference softball tournament is scheduled to begin next week.

The tournament, featuring eight area schools, will begin on Monday at 10 am on the campus of Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

The championship game will be played on Thursday, May 1st.

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

RIVER RADIO TO HOST ST. JUDE RADIOTHON NEXT WEEK

Next week River Radio will be devoting 24 hours of air time to help the kids at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

The River Radio St. Jude Radiothon will be held on May 1st and 2nd from 6 am to 6 pm each day, on Clear 94, Today’s Talk KWOC, Z95 The Bone, and Shuffle 92.9.

During the radiothon, you can call in to become a partner in hope and help the kids at St. Jude.

On Friday during the Radiothon, PB Realty will be making hotdogs in the River Radio parking lot and accepting donations that will go to St. Jude.

SEVEN YEAR OLD CHILD ONE OF FOUR PEOPLE INJURED IN STODDARD COUNTY CRASH

A young child was seriously injured in a two vehicle crash Tuesday afternoon.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred shortly before 5 pm when a vehicle struck the rear of another vehicle on Highway 25, two miles north of Advance.

A seven year old child in the first vehicle received serious injuries in the crash. The drivers of each vehicle received moderate injuries, and a passenger in the second suffered minor injuries.

All four subjects were transported to an area medical center.

MISSOURI HUNTERS CAN APPLY FOR ELK AND BEAR PERMITS BEGINNING IN MAY

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

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

MDC has designated the elk archery portion to run from October 18th through October 26th and the elk firearms portion to run from December 13th through December 21st.

The MDC will also offer 600 permits for the taking of a maximum of 40 black bears during the 2025 Missouri black-bear hunting season this fall, from October 18th through October 31st.

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

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

EAST CARTER COUNTY R-2 STUDENTS WIN MODOT TRASH CAN DECORATING CONTEST

A Carter County school has been chosen as one of the winners of a statewide trash can decorating contest.

East Carter County R-2 won the 6th through 8th grade category as well as the grand prize of the MoDOT “No MOre Trash” contest.

MoDOT sponsors the contest as part of Missouri’s “No MOre Trash!” campaign to raise awareness about and discourage littering. The contest encourages students from kindergarten through 12th grade to join the fight against litter by decorating and displaying a large trash can with the “No MOre Trash!” logo and a litter-prevention message using a variety of creative mediums.

According to Sara Hoefer with East Carter County R-2 school district, the students organized a cleanup effort to collect trash around their campus and along a local creek as a part of their entry “Don’t Get Hooked on Litter.”

The school will receive a check for $200 for the category win as well as $600 and a trophy as the grand prize winner. The project will be on display in the MoDOT Highway Gardens building at this year’s Missouri State Fair in Sedalia, in August.

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

DONIPHAN MAN SENTENCED TO OVER TWO DECADES IN PRISON FOR RECORDING UNDERAGE VICTIM IN BATHROOM

A Doniphan man will spend over two decades in prison for recording an underage victim who was in the bathroom.

52 year old Rayford Evans was convicted of attempted sexual exploitation of a minor after a one-day bench trial in January.

Evidence and testimony showed that Evans used his cell phone to record the victim by holding it up to a window above the bathroom door while the victim was bathing and using the bathroom.

The victim saw the phone and the Doniphan City Police Department was alerted. An officer found three videos of the victim that Evans tried to delete.

On Tuesday, Evans was sentenced to 21 years in prison.

BODY RECOVERED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY, IDENTIFIED AS MISSING SIKESTON MAN

Authorities are investigating after a body was discovered over the weekend in New Madrid County.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Office, a fisherman discovered a body on Sunday at St. Johns Bayou, near County Highway 806.

An autopsy was performed on Tuesday which resulted in the subject being identified as Tim Hale, of Sikeston, who was reported missing in February.

The cause and manner of death is undetermined; however officials say that no signs of trauma were discovered.

TALL AND SMALL BALL TO BENEFIT AREA FOSTER CHILDREN THIS WEEKEND

Foster Adopt Connect SEMO will be hosting an event this weekend to benefit children in foster care.

The Annual Tall and Small Ball has been scheduled for 5 pm on Saturday, April 26 at the Holiday Inn in Poplar Bluff.

The event will feature a night of formal dancing and activities for kids and adults.

More information is available on the Foster Adopt Connect Poplar Bluff Facebook page or by calling 573-552-4338.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT PLANNED FOR TODAY ON BUTLER COUNTY ROAD

Missouri Department of Transportation crews will replace a culvert at County Road 522 along Northbound Route 67 today in Butler County.

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

Officials say that Route 67 will not be impacted during this closure.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SHERIFF ANNOUNCES HIS RESIGNATION

A Southeast Missouri Sheriff has announced that he will be leaving his post at the end of this month.

In a post on Facebook, Bollinger County Sheriff Casey Graham announced that he will be stepping down effective May 1st.

Graham says that a new career opportunity has become available. That, combined with the failure of Amendment 6 last November along with the instability and uncertainty of the Missouri Sheriff’s Retirement System factored into his decision.

He added that he will assist Chief Deputy Stash Petton with the transition and that he has no doubt that Chief Deputy Petton will lead a professional and proactive Sheriff’s Office as Interim-Sheriff.

CREWS TO BE WORKING ON ROUTE 25 IN BLOOMFIELD TODAY

Route 25 in Stoddard County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The section of roadway is located from Route AA to Route E in Bloomfield.

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

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING CRASH IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

An Arkansas man has died from injuries he received Sunday night in a single vehicle crash in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 34 year old man from Blytheville, was driving on Route DD in Pemiscot County when his vehicle ran off the roadway and struck a utility pole.

The man, who was not wearing a safety device, was ejected during the crash and pronounced dead at the scene by the Pemiscot County Coroner.

TWO THREE RIVERS COLLEGE INSTRUCTORS HONORED WITH EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING AWARDS

Two Three Rivers College instructors are being honored for their work helping students.

Jennifer Inman, a Three Rivers College Accounting Instructor, has been selected by the College as the 2024-25 recipient of the Governor's Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Inman has taught at Three Rivers for five years and has served on numerous committees.

Miranda Hudson, TRC Adjunct Instructor of Nursing, was named by the College as its Adjunct of the Year Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Hudson specializes in maternal-child nursing and college officials say that she brings invaluable real-world experience to her students.

OVER 240 NEW CASES OF CHRONIC WASTING DISEASE REPORTED IN MISSOURI

Over 240 new cases of Chronic Wasting Disease have been reported in Missouri deer.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, it has confirmed 243 new cases of CWD across 35 counties, including seven counties who have had their first CWD-positive case.

The CWD-positive cases were found through sampling and testing of more than 36,000 deer during the past deer-hunting season and post-season targeted-removal efforts with most cases being from hunter-harvested deer submitted for sampling.

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

Those new cases bring the total number of CWD positives found in the state to 815 over 46 counties since the first positive CWD case was found in wild deer by MDC in early 2012. Although the number of CWD-positive counties increased, officials say that CWD management efforts have kept infection rates low and less than one percent of samples tested positive for CWD.

NEW MADRID TEEN INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH NEAR RISCO

A New Madrid teenager was seriously injured in a single vehicle crash over the weekend.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 17 year old male was driving on US Highway 62, seven miles east of Risco, when his vehicle ran off the roadway, struck a ditch, and overturned.

The crash occurred shortly after 8 pm Saturday night.

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

CREWS TO BE WORKING ON ROUTE 60 IN NEW MADRID COUNTY THIS WEEK

Eastbound Route 60 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane so contractor crews can perform pavement repairs. 

The section of roadway is located from Route 114 near Morehouse to Route 61 near Sikeston.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday, July 25.

CONCRETE REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY ON INTERSTATE 55 IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Northbound and Southbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 14-foot width restriction through early next month as contractor crews perform concrete repairs. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, northbound I-55 will be reduced from mile markers 4 to 7 and mile markers 9 to 13. Southbound I-55 will be reduced between mile markers 6 and 10.

Weather permitting, the work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday, May 2. The work zone will remain in place until the work is complete.

Monday, April 21, 2025

SPRING TURKEY SEASON BEGINS TODAY IN MISSOURI

The regular spring turkey season is underway in Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, Turkey Season will run through May 11th.

Conservation officials say that two male turkeys or turkeys with visible beards may be taken during the season. Hunters are allowed to take only one turkey during the first week and if you do not take one during the first week, then you may take two turkeys during the second and third week.

Hunters are also not allowed to take two turkeys on the same day.

For more information, visit mdc.mo.gov.

MISSOURI SHOW ME GREEN SALES TAX HOLIDAY IS UNDERWAY THROUGH FRIDAY

Missouri’s annual Show Me Green sales tax holiday is underway.

According to the Missouri Department of Revenue, the tax holiday began on Saturday and will run through this Friday.

During this time, state sales tax will be waived on qualifying Energy Star certified appliances. This certification indicates that a product has been independently verified to meet strict standards – which can mean superior performance and long-term energy savings.

Clothes washers, dryers, dishwashers, air conditioners, and refrigerators with the Energy Star certification are just some of the items that are exempt from state sales tax on the first $1,500 of each appliance purchased.

For more information, visit dor.mo.gov.

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2025 PBHS SUMMER SCHOOL PROGRAM

It is time for parents to get their children registered for Summer School in Poplar Bluff.

Officials say that this year’s summer school will be held Monday through Friday from May 28th through June 25th and is an opportunity for students to earn back credits lost due to low attendance and/or failing classes during the regular school year.

Free breakfast and lunch will be provided for summer school students. Driver’s Education classes will also be available.

46TH ANNUAL OLD GREENVILLE BLACKPOWDER RENDEZVOUS ENCAMPENT TO BE HELD IN SEPTEMBER

The 46th Annual Old Greenville Blackpowder Rendezvous Encampement has been pushed back to the fall due to flooding in the area.

The event, presented by the US Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake and the East Wayne County Chamber of Commerce, will be held with the Old Greenville Days from September 19th through the 21st at the Greenville Recreation Area.

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

For more information, call 573-222-8562.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route 25 in Stoddard County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The section of roadway is located from Route AA to Route E in the Bloomfield area.

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

MODOT CREWS TO REDUCE ROUTE T IN CARTER COUNTY FOR OVER A WEEK

Route T in Carter County will be reduced for over a week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

The work zone is located one mile south of US Highway 60 to County Road 211.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Wednesday, May 1.

Friday, April 18, 2025

CHANCES OF SEVERE WEATHER INCLUDING HEAVY RAIN FOR THIS WEEKEND

Another round of possible severe weather will be entering the area beginning tonight.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, an active weather pattern will return to the area today through Sunday, bringing with it a daily risk of severe thunderstorms.

Large hail and damaging winds will threaten the area all weekend, with Sunday also seeing the risk of tornados increase.

Heavy rain of 1.5 to 3 inches of rain is also forecast across much of Southeast Missouri. The heaviest rain will fall on Saturday, and this will be when there will be the greatest risk of flash flooding.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING FREIGHTLINER CRASH

A Freightliner crashed Wednesday in Butler County, badly injuring a Poplar Bluff man.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the vehicle was traveling on Highway 53, one mile north of Qulin, when it ran off the left side of the road and overturned.

The driver, a 54 year old man from Poplar Bluff, suffered serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

MISSOURI JOINT DAMAGE ASSESSMENTS TO BEGIN ON APRIL 22ND

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency will participate in joint preliminary damage assessments for Individual Assistance in numerous counties throughout the state beginning next week.

A total of 25 counties were a part of the request for assessments, including Butler, Carter, Dunklin, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Ripley, Stoddard, and Wayne County, following the deadly severe storms and flooding that began March 30 and that continues to affect much of the state.

Joint PDA teams are made up of representatives from FEMA, the State Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Small Business Administration and local emergency management officials.

Beginning April 22nd, six teams will survey and verify documented damage to determine if Individual Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Individual Assistance allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses.

Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, visit recovery.mo.gov.

Thursday, April 17, 2025

RIPLEY AND BUTLER COUNTY TORNADO ON MARCH 14TH PART OF LONGER TRACT THAT SPANNED OVER 117 MILES

Weather officials say that one of the tornadoes that struck Ripley and Butler Counties on March 14th was the tail end of an EF-4 tornado that stretched over 117 miles.

According to the National Weather Service, the tornado started in western Stone County, Arkansas, before crossing through Izard, Sharp, Randolph, and Ripley Counties, finally ending in western Butler County. It injured four people in total and caused widespread damage to homes and trees.

The tornado had peak winds of 170 miles per hour and a maximum width of 1400 yards.

Officials say that the peak winds, maximum tornado rating, and peak width all occurred in Arkansas. The tornado produced EF-2 damage in Ripley and Butler County.

This was the third longest tornado to impact the NWS Paducah area of responsibility since 1950.

CHANCE OF SEVERE WEATHER POSSIBLE FOR THIS WEEKEND

We are looking at another chance of severe weather coming up this weekend.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, an active weather pattern will return to the area from Friday through Sunday, bringing with it a daily risk of severe thunderstorms.

Friday and Saturday will see large hail and damaging winds being the main threats. Sunday will also see the risk of tornados increase.

ARKANSAS REQUEST FOR INDIVIDUAL ASSISTANCE TO RECOVER FROM MARCH 14TH STORMS DENIED BY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

The federal government has denied a request from the State of Arkansas for individual assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency in connection with the severe storms and tornadoes that occurred on March 14.

Officials with the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management say that they are working to appeal the decision and the request for public assistance is still ongoing.

Joint local, state, and federal damage assessments for the severe storms and flooding that began April 2nd will continue through the end of April.

Once damage assessments are complete and all data has been compiled, the State of Arkansas will submit a request to the White House for a Major Disaster Declaration.

EARTHQUAKE RECORDED IN NORTHWEST BUTLER COUNTY

An earthquake shook parts of Butler County Tuesday morning.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.4 earthquake was recorded at 12:30 am on Tuesday.

The quake was centered on Highway 60, approximately 13 miles northwest of Poplar Bluff and had a depth of less than a mile.

FEED AND SEED EVENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY

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

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

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

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Route 164 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The section of roadway is located from Route TT to County Road 709.

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

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

FIRE DESTROYS BUILDING NEAR DOWNTOWN POPLAR BLUFF

An abandoned commercial building was destroyed by a fire early Tuesday morning in Poplar Bluff.

The fire was located at a building on Bartlett Street between South B Street and South Riverview drive.

Poplar Bluff Fire Chief Mike Moffitt tells KWOC News that crews responded at around 3 am and the fire was advanced when the crews arrived on scene.

A cause for the fire is undetermined and no injuries have been reported.

The Poplar Bluff Street Department worked on the site until shortly after 2 pm before reopening Bartlett Street for motorists.

AGRICULTURE, ART, AND MUSIC TEACHERS NAMED TWIN RIVERS TEACHERS OF THE YEAR

Three teachers have been selected as the Twin Rivers School District teachers of the year.

According to Twin Rivers R-X officials, agriculture teacher Charlie Barker was chosen as the 2024-2025 Twin Rivers High School Teacher of the Year.

At Twin Rivers - Fisk, the award was given to music teacher Alicia Anderle while for Twin Rivers - Qulin, art teacher Roger McCaghren was selected for the honor.

FISK MAN IN CUSTODY FOR ASSAULT ON LAW ENFORCEMENT CHARGE

A Fisk man has been taken into custody for multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 35 year old Daniel Brown was arrested in Wayne County shortly before 7 pm Monday for felony charges of resisting arrest and assault on law enforcement.

He is also facing a charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

Following the arrest, Brown was held at the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office on no bond.

MODOT CREWS TO BE WORKING ON ROUTE 142 IN THE NEELYVILLE AREA TODAY

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

The section of roadway being closed is located from Route HH to County Road 265 near Neelyville

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

MAN WANTED ON OUTSTANDING FELONY WARRANT ARRESTED FOLLOWING STANDOFF

A wanted man was taken into custody Monday following a standoff in Southeast Missouri.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Office, deputies and a Missouri State Trooper arrived at a residence in Gideon to attempt to arrest 45 year old Jeremy Southard for outstanding felony warrants.

Southard retreated into the residence and became noncommunicative. After multiple attempts to communicate and receiving no response from Southard, combined with information that he may be armed, officials requested the assistance of the Sikeston Department of Public Safety's SOG (SWAT) team.

A short time after the SOG team arrived on scene Southard exited the residence and turned himself in without further incident.

Southard is charged through the State of Arkansas with felony Probation Violation and through Dunklin County, Missouri with felony Resisting Arrest and Assault in the Fourth Degree.

The Gideon school system was briefly locked down due to proximity to the incident.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF ROAD IN MALDEN AREA

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

The closure will be located from County Road 108 to Oak Tree Lane near Malden.

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

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

MID CONTINENT STEEL AND WIRE DONATES SUPPLIES AND FUNDS TO HELP AREA TORNADO VICTIMS

A Poplar Bluff area business is donating supplies and funds to help victims of the recent tornados and severe weather.

Dave Creg with Mid Continent Steel and Wire tells KWOC News that the company is donating two truckloads of supplies, including 360 rolls of various fencing items and 1600 boxes of nails.

Creg added that Mid Continent Steel and Wire employees also contributed to a go fund me account which the company matched, resulting in $10,750 going to tornado victims.

Steve Halter with the Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce tells us that anyone who needs monetary assistance cleaning up from the storms can submit an application at the South Central Missouri Community Action Agency at 1716 South Broadway Street in Poplar Bluff.

Officials with the SCMCAA say they are hoping to begin accepting applications this week, starting by Thursday at the earliest.

Halter added that the supplies donated by Mid Continent Steel and Wire will be distributed to residents in need around the community.

GOVERNOR REQUESTS JOINT DAMAGE ASSESSMENTS FOR SEVERE STORMS THAT BEGAN ON MARCH 30TH

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has announced that the state has requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency participate in joint preliminary damage assessments for Individual Assistance in numerous counties throughout the state.

A total of 20 counties were a part of the request, including Butler, Carter, Dunklin, New Madrid, Ripley, Stoddard, and Wayne County, following the severe storms and significant flooding that impacted Missouri beginning on March 30th. Officials say this request begins the process of obtaining federal disaster assistance.

Joint PDA teams are made up of representatives from FEMA, the State Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Small Business Administration and local emergency management officials.

Beginning today, teams will survey and verify documented damage to determine if Individual Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Individual Assistance allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses.

Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767. For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, visit recovery.mo.gov.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOST JOB FAIR TODAY

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

The Job Fair and Career Expo 2025 is scheduled for 10 am to 1 pm at the Libla Family Sports Complex on the TRC Poplar Bluff campus.

Numerous employers are going to be involved in the fair, with some conducting on-site interviews.

This event is brought to you by the Butler County Community Resource Council’s Employment Connection Committee and Three Rivers College.

More information is available at trcc.edu.

AREA POLICE CELEBRATE NATIONAL PUBLIC SAFETY TELECOMMUNICATORS WEEK

This week is National Public Safety Telecommunicators week and multiple area police departments are celebrating their communications departments.

The event honors telecommunications personnel in the public safety community.

You can find more information about National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week online at www.npstw.org.

YOUNG MISSOURI HUNTERS TAKE OVER 4,400 TURKEYS DURING YOUTH WEEKEND

Young hunters in Missouri took over 4,000 turkeys during this past youth weekend.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, preliminary data shows that young turkey hunters harvested 4,428 birds over April 12th and 13th.

The total was an 18 percent increase over last year’s harvest, and the second highest number recorded since the youth season began in 2001.

The regular spring turkey season begins on April 21st and runs through May 11th.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE MUSIC DEPARTMENT TO HOST SPRING SHOWCASE

The Three Rivers College Music Department is hosting a Spring showcase tonight.

According to school officials, TRC vocal and instrumental students will perform an eclectic program of classical repertoire and musical theater standards during the showcase. Admission is free.

The Spring Showcase has been scheduled for 7 pm at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center.

Monday, April 14, 2025

MULTIPLE PEOPLE FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF CRASH IN NORTHERN BUTLER COUNTY

Two people were flown from the scene of a single vehicle crash Friday morning in northern Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred shortly after 7 am on Highway 67, seven miles north of Poplar Bluff.

Officials say that a vehicle ran off the left side of the roadway and traveled down an embankment.

Two passengers in the vehicle, a 46 and 28 year old female, both from Paragould, suffered serious injuries in the crash and were flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital.

The driver and another passenger, also of Paragould, received minor injuries and were transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

FORMER RIPLEY COUNTY SHERIFF AND CHIEF DEPUTY ARRESTED FOR STEALING FIREARMS

Multiple former Ripley County law enforcement officers have been taken into custody and charged with stealing.

On April 3rd, the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Crime Control investigative unit was requested to investigate the alleged possession of stolen property by former Ripley County Sheriff’s Office employees.

One employee was identified as former Chief Deputy Charles Mays and the other was former Ripley County Sheriff Michael Barton.

Firearms located at each man’s residence were compared against a list of missing firearms from the Ripley County Sheriff’s Office evidence locker. Ten pistols were recovered from Mays’ residence and it was determined the pistols were previously seized as evidence by the Ripley County Sheriff's Office.

Two vehicles and other electronic equipment were also seized from Barton’s residence.

Mays is charged with 14 counts of stealing a firearm, and one count of stealing - $750 or more. Barton is charged with two counts of stealing a firearm, and two counts of stealing - $750 or more.

Both were held at the Ripley County Detention Center.

CLEARWATER STUDENTS TO JOIN POPLAR BLUFF TECHNICAL CAREER CENTER

Students from Clearwater will be attending the Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center beginning this fall.

The Missouri State Board Of Education officially accepted Clearwater’s request to change its area career and technical education school designation earlier this year.

TCC Director Leigh Ann Cornman says that while the deadline was too tight for Piedmont’s school system to implement the change for the current school year, that only helped to strengthen the transition plan from its previous sending school of Arcadia Valley.

TCC representatives visited Clearwater in the fall, and then hosted the incoming juniors and seniors earlier this calendar year. Upperclassmen presently taking CTE programming also offered in Poplar Bluff will be able to complete their senior year at the TCC.

The TCC will host a commitment night for the families of incoming students next month. Approximately 250 students, including adults, were enrolled at the TCC as of last semester. Clearwater's addition brings the total network of area schools sending students to the TCC to 10, including PBHS.

25th ANNUAL POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT SET FOR MAY

The 25th Annual Poplar Bluff School Foundation Golf Tournament is coming up at the beginning of May.

The four person scramble tournament is scheduled for Friday, May 2nd, at Ozark Ridge Golf Course. Tee time will be at noon.

All proceeds from the event will go towards the foundation scholarship fund and other educational opportunities.

If you would like to enter a team or become a hole sponsor, contact Carla Thompson at 573-785-7751 extension 5.

OVER THREE MONTH BRIDGE REHABILITATION PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN BUTLER AND STODDARD COUNTIES

Route U in Butler and Stoddard counties will be closed for over three months as construction crews perform bridge rehabilitation over the Saint Francis River.

The bridge is located between County Road 668 in Butler County and County Road 681 in Stoddard County.

Work is scheduled to begin Monday, April 14 with completion anticipated by Wednesday, July 23.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE CLOSURE OF DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD TODAY

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

The work zone is located in the Campbell area, from County Road 222 to Tucker Road.

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

Friday, April 11, 2025

QULIN MAN SENTENCED ON MANSLAUGHTER CHARGES

A Qulin man will be spending two decades behind bars for his part in a fatal motorcycle crash from 2023.

According to Missouri Case Net, Travis Vincent, of Qulin, pleaded guilty in February to two counts of 1st degree involuntary manslaughter as well as single counts of driving while intoxicated resulting in the death of two or more people and operating a motor vehicle in a careless and imprudent manner involving an accident.

The charges stem from a crash in August of 2023 that killed two people in Mississippi County.

On Wednesday, Vincent was sentenced to 10 years incarceration on each of the involuntary manslaughter charges that will run consecutively. He also received a 15 year sentence on the DWI charge and a one year sentence on the careless and imprudent driving charge.

Those two sentences will run concurrently to the involuntary manslaughter sentences.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS SPRING GAMES SET FOR TODAY IN POPLAR BLUFF

The Special Olympics will be returning to Poplar Bluff today.

The Special Olympics Spring games are scheduled to begin at 9 am this morning at Fred M. Morrow Stadium on the campus of Poplar Bluff Junior High School.

Over 200 athletes from across Southeast Missouri will be participating in a variety of events including races, shot put, long jumps, and more.

The event is open for the public to attend and cheer on the athletes. Entry for spectators is free. Anyone who would like to volunteer can text 573-579-4233 for more information.

PBHS DRAMA CLUB TO PRESENT “CLUE” THIS WEEKEND

The PBHS Drama Club is preparing for their next performance.

The Drama Club will be presenting “Clue: High School Edition”, beginning at 7 pm tonight.

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

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

MISSOURI ANGLERS ASKED TO REPORT AND KILL ANY NORTHERN SNAKEHEAD FISH THEY CATCH

Missouri anglers are being asked to report and kill any northern snakehead fish they catch in the state.

The northern snakehead fish is a long bodied, predatory fish that is not native to the U.S. This fish’s head resembles a snake, thus its name. Its body can grow up to 3 feet long with python-like coloration and pattern.

Unlike most fish, the northern snakehead can breathe air, which allows survival in poorly oxygenated water or out of water for several days if their skin stays moist. They can also slither across land to return to water.

Snakeheads are an invasive species native to Asia. They’re aggressive predators, preying on native species, and competing for resources.

The MDC says that it is illegal to import, export, sell, purchase, or possess a northern snakehead fish in Missouri.

Anyone who catches or sees a northern snakehead is asked to report it to MDC’s Southeast Regional Office at 573-290-5730.

SHOULDER REPAIR PROJECT TO CAUSE DELAYS ON ROUTE 51 IN STODDARD COUNTY

Route 51 in Stoddard and Bollinger counties will be reduced to one lane so contractor crews can perform shoulder repairs

The section of roadway being reduced is from Route 91 in Bollinger County to Route 60 in Stoddard County.

Weather permitting work will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Saturday, April 19.

INTERSTATE REPAIRS UNDERWAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

Southbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 16-foot width restriction through the middle of next week as contractor crews perform pavement repairs. 

The section of roadway involved in this project is located between mile markers 62.6 and 62.0.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Tuesday, April 15.

Thursday, April 10, 2025

EF-1 TORNADO TRAVELLED NEAR QUILIN ON APRIL 2ND, DAMAGING OVER A DOZEN HOMES

Tornado surveys continue to come in from the storm system that crossed the area earlier this month.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, an EF-1 tornado touched down near the Arkansas border in far southern Butler County on April 2nd and then tracked northeast passing a few miles southeast of Qulin.

Officials say that the tornado caused over a dozen homes to receive some sort of shingle or siding damage. Several grain buildings were destroyed and many outbuildings and power poles received damage as well.

The tornado continued into far northwest Dunklin County before lifting.

THREE DEAD FOLLOWING CRASH NEAR KENNETT

Three people have died following a crash Tuesday evening in the Kennett area.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at around 5:30 pm Tuesday on Missouri Highway 25 when a vehicle was attempting to make a pass and struck another vehicle head on.

The driver of the first vehicle, a 58 year old male, and a passenger, a 27 year old male, both from Caruthersville, were killed in the crash, as was the driver of the other vehicle, a 77 year old woman from Paragould.

A passenger in each vehicle also suffered serious injuries and were flown to a Memphis hospital.

WOMAN ARRESTED IN CARTER COUNTY IN CONNECTION TO FEMA IMPERSONATION INVESTIGATION

A woman is in custody in Carter County in connection to an investigation into an individual impersonating a FEMA official.

According to Carter County Sheriff Alonzo Bradwell, Diane Carter, of Van Buren was arrested Tuesday on a Carter County Warrant for false impersonation and peace disturbance.

Bradwell says that there were allegations that an individual was impersonating a FEMA official during the recent flooding.

Carter’s bond was set at $25,000, cash or surety.

EVIDENCE FOUND OF SHORTLIVED TORNADO TOUCHING DOWN IN NORTHEAST RIPLEY COUNTY

Tornado surveys crews have found evidence of a short-lived tornado occurring on April 2nd in northeast Ripley County.

According to the National Weather Service, there is evidence of an EF-1 Tornado that started where Ripley County Highway K-6 dead ends and then the track continues northeast crossing Highway K between K-6 and K-7.

Several homes suffered damage including at least one that had rather significant roof damage. Considerable tree damage also occurred on either side of K highway.

It is believed that the tornado was only on the ground for around two minutes and slightly over one mile, however it is unknown how much further northeast it tracked due to the poor road network.

POPLAR BLUFF CHILD FLOWN TO ST. LOUIS HOSPITAL AFTER UTV CRASH

Two Poplar Bluff children were injured in a UTV crash Tuesday evening.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 15 year old and a 11 year girl were both riding on a UTV that crashed on private property, two miles north of Poplar Bluff.

The 11 year old girl suffered serious injuries and was flown to a St. Louis hospital. The teenager received minor injuries and was transported by ambulance to a St. Louis hospital.

CREWS TO REPLACE SEVERAL CULVERTS TODAY ON ROUTE A NEAR GREENVILLE

Route A in Wayne County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace several culverts under the roadway.

The section of roadway being reduced is located between County Road E-400 and County Road 373 near Greenville.

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