Wednesday, July 15, 2026

MISSOURI SEMA TO HOST APPLICANT BRIEFINGS TODAY IN DONIPHAN IN CONNECTION TO FEDERAL DISASTER DECLARATION

State officials will be in Southeast Missouri today to conduct briefings in connection with the recent federal disaster declaration.

Following the federal disaster declaration for multiple severe weather systems that impacted Missouri from April 23rd to April 28th, the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency will conduct applicant briefings for local governments and nonprofit agencies applying for Public Assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Ripley County was one of the 10 counties included in the declaration.

Applicant briefings are currently scheduled for 9 am to 1 pm today at the Ripley County Courthouse in Doniphan.

Officials say that applicant briefings are not for the general public. The briefings are for FEMA’s Public Assistance program only, which provides financial assistance to local governments and qualifying nonprofits for the repair of damaged roads, bridges and other public infrastructure as well as reimbursement of associated emergency response and recovery costs.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING THEFTS FROM VEHICLES IN CAMPBELL

Authorities in Campbell are investigating multiple thefts from earlier this week.

According to the City of Campbell Facebook page, several vehicles were reportedly tampered with, which included items being stolen on July 12th.

The thefts occurred between 1 and 3 am.

Campbell residents are being asked to review any available security camera footage during these hours and to contact the police department if you observe any suspicious activity.

Residents are also reminded to always lock your vehicle doors and to not leave valuables inside your vehicle.

GOAT TO BE SHOWN AT MOVIE IN THE PARK ON JULY 31ST

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

Movie in the Park will begin at dusk on July 31st at the Spillway Recreation Area.

The film Goat will be shown, free of charge, and there will also be hot dogs for sale. Attendees should remember to bring a lawn chair or blanket.

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

REGISTER THIS WEEK FOR FALL YOUTH BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL IN POPLAR BLUFF

Now is the time to register your team for fall youth baseball and softball in Poplar Bluff.

According to Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation, the final day for teams to be registered for the fall leagues is Friday, July 17th. Leagues for youth baseball and softball will be available for children from 7 to 12 years old.

Rosters must have 11 to 14 players per team.

More information is available at pbparks.recdesk.com and the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Facebook page.

NEW BOOKLETS NOW AVAILABLE FOR HUNTERS IN MISSOURI

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

Missouri deer, turkey, waterfowl, and dove hunters can get the most current information on upcoming fall hunting from the MDC’s new 2026 Fall Deer and Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet and the Migratory Bird and Waterfowl Hunting Digest.

The 2026 Fall Deer and Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet has detailed information on fall deer and turkey hunting seasons, limits, permits, managed hunts, regulations, conservation areas to hunt, post-harvest instructions, chronic wasting disease updates, and more.

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

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

CREWS TO BE WORKING ON INTERSTATE 57 IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI TODAY

Northbound Interstate 57 will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located between mile markers 8.4 and 9.6 near Charleston.

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

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

IDENTITY RELEASED OF POPLAR BLUFF SHOOTING VICTIM, TWO MEN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY

Butler County Coroner Jim Akers tells KWOC News that an area man has been identified as the victim of a fatal shooting Sunday evening in Poplar Bluff.

According to Poplar Bluff Police Chief J.R. Keirsey, a man and a woman were walking across the Pine Street bridge over Black River shortly before 6 pm Sunday, when they noticed two individuals following them in a black pickup truck.

As the couple continued across the bridge, one of the suspects allegedly ran up behind them and fatally shot the man before fleeing on foot. The pickup truck then left the area in the same direction.

Akers says that the shooting victim has been identified as 37 year old Jesse Schaeding, of Poplar Bluff.

Chief Keirsey added that investigators identified the alleged shooter as 46 year old Ralph Sullivan, of Poplar Bluff. The driver of the truck was identified as 30 year old Devon Raddad, also of Poplar Bluff. Both men were later taken into custody without incident.

Investigators have submitted probable cause statements to the Butler County Prosecuting Attorney's Office requesting first degree murder charges.

BERNIE MAN DROWNS AFTER FALLING INTO POOL AT OTTER SLOUGH

A Stoddard County man drowned after falling into an area body of water.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, an 86 year old Bernie man fell into a pool at Otter Slough shortly after 10 am on Monday.

The man was transported to a Dexter hospital where he was pronounced dead a short time later.

POPLAR BLUFF STUDENT WINS NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP

A recent Poplar Bluff High School graduate has been selected to receive a National Merit Scholarship.

Poplar Bluff’s Claire Funke was chosen for the National Merit University Of Alabama Scholarship. Her probable career field is currently in science or research.

Funke was chosen as a scholarship finalist after earning a perfect ACT superscore on her college admissions test last school year and also helped secure the championship in the Senior Quiz Bowl at the National Beta Convention last summer in Orlando.

At PBHS, Funke served as president of the Beta, Literary and Math clubs. Additionally, she was selected to attend the Missouri Scholars Academy through the University of Missouri Honors College.

She is the second straight National Merit Scholarship Program finalist from Poplar Bluff High School, following her brother Jack Funke.

HEAVILY TRAVELLED BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED OVERNIGHT BEGINNING TODAY

Route W in Butler County will be closed overnight beginning today as contractor crews perform overnight pavement repairs.

According to MoDOT, the section of roadway that will be closed is located from the East Outer Road to Business 60 in Poplar Bluff.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, July 17 from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. nightly.

FRIENDS OF WAPPAPELLO LAKE TO HOST MONTHLY MEETING TONIGHT

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

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

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

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE OVER THE WEEKEND IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle over the weekend in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 64 year old man, from Plano, Texas, was hit by a vehicle on Pemiscot County Highway 55, just north of Hayti.

The incident occurred at around 9 pm Saturday night.

The man was transported to a Hayti hospital with serious injuries.

Monday, July 13, 2026

HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE RESCUED FROM FLOOD WATERS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Multiple crews were involved in rescuing residents from flooding on Friday in Southeast Missouri.

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency Friday and activated a search and rescue team to assist. He said late Friday that hundreds of people were saved from floodwaters, trees, rooftops and stranded vehicles.

In Reynolds County, two rescue boats capsized in the flooding, but other emergency personnel safely recovered the responders, the sheriff's office said.

Multiple homes were also destroyed or swept away by flooding.

Officials say that the body of Faith Gregory, who went missing in Crawford County after her home was swept away from its foundation, was found by volunteers late Saturday morning.

All rivers in Southeast Missouri had fallen below the flood stage by Sunday.

MAJOR CASE SQUAD INVESTIGATING FATAL SHOOTING IN POPLAR BLUFF

The Major Case Squad has been activated to assist with the investigation into a fatal shooting in Poplar Bluff.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief J.R. Keirsey tells KWOC News that the incident occurred Sunday evening on the eastbound lanes of Business Highway 60 over the Black River.

Keirsey says that a man and woman were walking across the bridge when they were approached by a suspect who reportedly shot the man before fleeing the scene.

Keirsey added that the suspect has been identified.

At this time, authorities have not released the names of the victim or the suspect.

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

1ST DEGREE MURDER CHARGE FILED IN CONNECTION TO SHOOTING IN CARTER COUNTY

Updating a story we have been following for you, a suspect is now charged with murder in connection to a shooting in Carter County.

According to Carter County Sheriff Alonzo Bradwell, 28 year old Peter Taylor, of Ellsinore, was arrested following a 14 hour manhunt that began July 4th when multiple people sustained gunshot wounds at a location on County Road 330.

Bradwell says that a young victim has died in connection to the case.

Taylor is now facing charges of murder 1st degree, three counts of ​assault 1st degree or attempt – serious physical injury, four counts of ​armed criminal action, three counts of ​unlawful use of a weapon, and a single count of ​endangering the welfare of a child 1st degree.

He is being held on no bond and is scheduled to appear in a Carter County courtroom on July 14th.

TEEN DIES FROM INJURIES RECEIVED IN A SOUTHEAST MISSOURI CRASH

Updating a story we have been following for you, a Kennett teenager has died from injuries she received in a crash earlier this month.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle ran off of US Highway 412 at approximately 1 am on July 1st. The vehicle then struck a ditch, overturned, and ejected both of its occupants.

The driver, identified as a 24 year old Kennett man, was pronounced dead at the scene by Dunklin County Coroner James Powell.

The passenger, a 13 year old girl, also of Kennett, was flown to a Memphis hospital. She was pronounced dead on July 9th.

OVER MONTH AND A HALF LONG ROAD PROJECT BEGINS TODAY ON ROUTE W IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route W in Butler County will be reduced to one lane with an 11-foot width restriction for over a month as construction crews perform pavement repairs and overlay the asphalt.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route O to Route 60 in Poplar Bluff.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Monday, August 31.

FORMER EAST CARTER COUNTY BASEBALL PLAYER SELECTED BY MILWAUKEE BREWERS IN MLB DRAFT

A standout pitcher from Southeast Missouri has been selected in the MLB draft.

The Milwaukee Brewers selected former East Carter County Redbird Brady Smith in the 18th Round of the draft over the weekend.

Smith is the 551st player selected overall and had previously committed to Wichita State.

MISSING MAN FOUND DEAD IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A man who was reported missing last month in Southeast Missouri has been found dead.

According to the Reynolds County Sheriff’s Office, Gregory Michael Shipman was found deceased shortly before 5 pm on Thursday.

Shipman had last been seen leaving his residence on foot during the afternoon of June 24th.

Officials say that the investigation into the circumstances surrounding Shipman’s death is ongoing and investigators are working to determine the cause and manner of death, as well as to rule out any potential foul play.

FEED AND SEED EVENT SCHEDULED FOR THURSDAY

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

The event is from 3 to 5 pm on Thursday, July 16, 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.

Friday, July 10, 2026

BATTLE OF THE BADGES BLOOD DRIVE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY

Reservations are now being accepted for the Battle of the Badges Blood Drive in Poplar Bluff.

The Blood Drive is scheduled for noon to 5 pm today at Larry Hillis Dodge on North Westwood Boulevard.

This will also be a friendly competition between local police, fire, and EMS teams, as you will choose which team gets credit when you donate.

There will also be food trucks, games, and a chance to receive an exclusive t-shirt.

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

NEW AWARD TO HONOR INDIVIDUALS FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO POPLAR BLUFF SPORTS

The Poplar Bluff Hall of Fame has announced that they will be honoring members of the community for their contributions to area sports at the Hall of Fame’s 38th Induction Banquet this fall.

The new Sam Giambelluca President Emeritus Award will be presented to a person, or group, that provides significant contributions to sports in Poplar Bluff, including but not limited to monetary funding, time spent volunteering, or promotion for the betterment of the community.

Brian Roesner, president of the Poplar Bluff Sports Hall of Fame says that the inaugural award will be presented to Dan Coffman, Dr. Jerry McLane Family, J.P. McLane, Bill Swafford, and Dr. Austin Tinsley.

Roesener tells KWOC News that they felt this group was the perfect way to start the award as each has made significant contributions to the community in a variety of ways.

Dan Coffman is a longtime supporter of Poplar Bluff athletics having been a member of both the Mules and Raiders booster clubs. He has been an avid fan and supporter of the Three Rivers Raiders over the past 50 years, sponsored teams in youth leagues and was an AAU basketball coach for five years.

Dr. Jerry McLane Family supported all Poplar Bluff athletic teams over the years. Dr. McLane also served on the City of Poplar Bluff’s Park Board, helping to create the municipal golf course. He provided facilities for park league basketball teams, sponsored and coached in youth leagues for many years, helped start and fund the annual Poplar Bluff Showdown basketball tournament, and was an avid supporter and fan of the Three Rivers Raiders. The land that became McLane Park was sold to the city at a greatly reduced price, helping create a new home for youth baseball and softball. McLane died in 1998.

J.P. McLane was a longtime supporter of Three Rivers College athletics and was inducted into the Three Rivers Athletic Hall of Fame in 2020. He was involved with the Raiders Booster Club for more than 40 years and was a fixture at Raiders games while working to benefit the athletic department. McLane died in 2020.

Bill Swafford contributed as a member of the Three Rivers Raiders Booster Club for nearly 50 years along with supporting Poplar Bluff athletic teams. He served on the Three Rivers College Board of Trustees for 18 years while his fundraising efforts helped create the college’s Libla Family Sports Complex and he was inducted into the Three Rivers Athletic Hall of Fame in 2022. A PBHS alum, Swafford was an All-SEMO football player at center in 1963.

Dr. Austin Tinsley supported Poplar Bluff athletics by serving as longtime team physician and provided free physicals for all athletes for 30-plus years. He won the Mule Skinner Award in 1987 for service to the Mules football team.

ART FOR ANIMALS BEGINS TODAY

The Animal Welfare Alliance of Southeast Missouri is gearing up for the opening reception of this year's “Art for Animals.”

The reception will be held tonight from 6 to 8 pm at the Margaret Harwell Art Museum in Poplar Bluff. Admission to the reception is free and open to the public.

The event also includes an online auction, and bidding will end during a free closing reception from 6 to 8 pm on Friday,

July 24, at the Art Museum. The public can view the competing artwork in person at no charge at the museum through July 24

Art for Animals is an annual fund raiser for the Animal Welfare Alliance, which operates a regional no-kill animal shelter in Poplar Bluff. More information is available at AWASemo.org.

CAMPBELL AMERICA 250 CELEBRATION SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

A celebration of 250 years of America will be held this weekend in Campbell.

The Campbell America 250 Celebration is scheduled for 4 to 9 pm on Saturday at Campbell City Park.

There will be food, live music, games, contests, a fireworks show, and more. Admission to the event is free.

ANNUAL POLLARD PICNIC SCHEDULED FOR JULY 11TH

The date for the Annual Pollard Picnic in Northeast Arkansas is coming up.

The event will be held on Saturday in Pollard, Arkansas, and will feature multiple attractions for the entire family as well as the annual Pollard Beauty Pageants.

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

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

All funds made during the pageant will go to the upkeep of the New Hope Cemetery in Pollard.

ARKANSAS OFFICERS TO CRACK DOWN ON SPEEDING FOR THE REST OF THIS MONTH AS A PART OF NEW CAMPAIGN

Law enforcement officers across Arkansas will be stepping up speeding stops as a part of a new campaign going on this month.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the high-visibility enforcement campaign, Speeding Slows You Down will be conducted through the end of July.

State Police Troopers, sheriff’s deputies and city police officers will join this campaign by providing high-visibility patrols and issuing speeding citations to drivers breaking the law.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, local roads are more dangerous than highways for speeders. In 2024, speeding was a factor in over 11,000 traffic deaths nationwide, accounting for 29 percent of all traffic fatalities.

Drivers in neighborhoods, school zones, or secondary roads should be especially aware of this campaign and their speed as Arkansas law enforcement officers will be concentrating their efforts in these areas.

SEAL COAT IMPROVEMENTS TO CAUSE DELAYS ON NEW MADRID COUNTY ROAD

Contractor crews will be making driving surface improvements on Route U in New Madrid County through the end of August.

According to MoDOT, drivers should anticipate short, intermittent lane closures on Route U between Route D and Route 61 during the project.

There will also be a 12 foot width restriction in place and traffic will be directed with the use of flaggers and a pilot car

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Monday, August 31.

Thursday, July 9, 2026

ACTIVE SHOOTER TRAINING HELD WEDNESDAY AT TRC IN POPLAR BLUFF

The Three Rivers College campus in Poplar Bluff was the site of a multi-agency training event on Wednesday

According to officials, TRC hosted an active shooter training in cooperation with local law enforcement, emergency medical services, the Poplar Bluff Fire Department, and Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

Three Rivers Chief of Staff Chuck Stratton says that multi-agency training is the best way to prepare the College and community for high-risk situations.

RISK OF FLASH FLOODING THIS WEEK IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI, FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT STARTING THIS AFTERNOON

Daily chances of rainfall will result in increased risks of flooding in Southeast Missouri.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, repeated rounds of heavy rainfall may lead to an increased threat of flash flooding. Most of Southeast Missouri is under a slight risk of flash flooding on Friday, and all of Southeast Missouri will have a slight risk by Saturday.

A flood watch has been issued for all of Southeast Missouri from Thursday afternoon through late Saturday night.

Scattered to numerous thunderstorms will also be possible later this afternoon and throughout the night. There is also the possibility that these storms could become severe with damaging winds, particularly in our northern areas.

HEAVILY TRAVELLED BUTLER COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED OVERNIGHT BEGINNING JULY 14TH

Route W in Butler County will be closed overnight beginning July 14th as contractor crews perform overnight pavement repairs.

According to MoDOT, the section of roadway that will be closed is located from the East Outer Road to Business 60 in Poplar Bluff.

Weather permitting, work will take place Tuesday, July 14 through Friday, July 17 from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. nightly.

MAN TAKEN INTO CUSTODY FOLLOWING HIGH SPEED CHASE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A man is facing numerous charges following a high speed chase in Northeast Arkansas.

According to a warrant affidavit, on Tuesday, Paragould police officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle for failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign.

The vehicle then fled at a high rate of speed. Officers noted that the vehicle got up to 100 miles per hour in a posted 30 mile-per-hour zone in a residential neighborhood and also drove extremely close to two children who were walking on the side of the roadway.

The vehicle was eventually stopped and the potential defendant, 25 year old Antreze Knowles, of Paragould, was taken into custody.

He is facing multiple charges, including aggravated assault, fleeing, and reckless driving.

His bond was set at over $150,000 dollars.

POPLAR BLUFF PARKS AND RECREATION TO HOST CRUISE IN DOWNTOWN ON FRIDAY

Friday will be the perfect night to check out some cool cars in Butler County.

Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation will be hosting the Downtown Poplar Bluff Cruise-In Friday evening from 6 to 8 pm on Vine Street between 5th Street and Broadway.

Officials say that drivers are asked to arrive 30 minutes prior to start time.

For more information, call 573-686-8645.

ROAD PROJECT TO CAUSE DELAYS ON DUNKLIN COUNTY ROAD THIS MONTH

Contractor crews will be making driving surface improvements on Route N in Dunklin County throughout this month.

Officials say that crews will be working on Route N between Route 412 and 164 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Friday, July 31st.

Drivers should anticipate short, intermittent lane closures and traffic will be directed with the use of flaggers and a pilot car.

Wednesday, July 8, 2026

GRANT AWARDED FOR PROJECT CONNECTING ROUTE 53 WITH ROUTE AA IN SOUTHERN BUTLER COUNTY

Grant money will be coming to Butler County as a part of a plan to connect two roadways in the southern part of the county.

United States Senator Eric Schmitt tells KWOC News that 1.2 million dollars for the Poplar Bluff South Connector in Butler County was included in the Department of Transportation’s 2026 Build Awards. 

According to the Department of Transportation, the project will complete a traffic study, preliminary engineering, and environmental permitting for a new roadway connecting Route 53 with Route AA in Southern Butler County.

The new roadway will be at least two complete 12-foot-wide lanes, with a 4-foot shoulder on both sides and realign an intersection.

The project will also include a new bridge over the Black River.

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL OFFICIALS RELEASE BACK TO SCHOOL CHECKLIST FOR AREA PARENTS

We are in July which means kids will be returning to school before you know it.

To help parents get ready for when the school year starts, Poplar Bluff School officials have released a new “Back to School Checklist.”

Officials say the checklist provides a step-by-step guide to help parents navigate all the essential tasks for a successful start to the new school year.

The checklist includes registration details, health preparations, communication tools, and suggestions for daily routines.

You can find the checklist online at Poplar Bluff School’s new website, PBmules.com.

BATTLE OF THE BADGES BLOOD DRIVE SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK

Reservations are now being accepted for the Battle of the Badges Blood Drive in Poplar Bluff.

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

The blood drive is also a friendly competition between local police, fire, and EMS teams, you choose which team gets credit when you donate.

There will also be food trucks, games, and a chance to receive an exclusive t-shirt.

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

TODAY IS THE DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO VOTE IN UPCOMING MISSOURI PRIMARY ELECTION

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

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

The primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, August 4th.

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

ONE IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO DEXTER ROBBERY INVESTIGATION

One person has been taken into custody in connection to a robbery investigation in Dexter.

According to Dexter Police Chief Hank Trout, on June 29th officers received a report that someone was being robbed on North Elm Street.

An investigation into the report led to the arrest of 21 year old Lamarius Shaw-Thomas, of Poplar Bluff. Shaw-Thomas has been charged with felony robbery 1st degree, stealing, assault 3rd degree, and armed criminal action.

He is being held at the Stoddard County Jail on no bond warrants.

Chief Trout says that the investigation is ongoing and more arrests are expected.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN APPOINTED TO STATE COMMISSION

A Northeast Arkansas man has been appointed to a state commission.

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced that Steve Kueter, of Paragould, has been appointed to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.

Kueter is a lifelong resident of Greene County and earned a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Management from Arkansas State University. He owns and operates a third-generation catfish and baitfish farm in Paragould.

Kueter was appointed to serve a seven-year term.

Tuesday, July 7, 2026

RIPLEY COUNTY DROWNING VICTIM IDENTIFIED AS POPLAR BLUFF MAN

The identity has been released of a man who died while swimming over the weekend in Current River.

Ripley County Sheriff Rad Talburt tells KWOC News that emergency crews were dispatched to an area near Float Camp at approximately 7 pm on Sunday after receiving a report of a missing person.

According to Master Sergeant Caleb Morgan with the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the body of 32 year old Byron Surrell, from Poplar Bluff, was later recovered from the river between Float Camp and Deer Leep Boat Ramp.

He was reportedly swimming in the river when he went underwater and did not resurface.

Surrell was pronounced dead at the scene by Ripley County Coroner Michael Jackson shortly before 9 pm.

CHARGES FILED IN CONNECTION TO WEEKEND SHOOTING IN CARTER COUNTY

A suspect is facing multiple charges in connection to a weekend shooting in Carter County.

According to Carter County Sheriff Alonzo Bradwell, 28 year old Peter Taylor, of Ellsinore, was arrested following a 14 hour manhunt that began Saturday evening after three people sustained gunshot wounds at a location on County Road 330.

According to Missouri Case Net, Taylor is facing 11 total charges, including multiple counts of assault 1st degree, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon along with a single count of endangering the welfare of a child.

He is being held on no bond and is scheduled to appear in a Carter County courtroom on July 14th.

POPLAR BLUFF BUDDY BALL TO HOST UNDER THE SEA FORMAL DANCE

Poplar Bluff Buddy Ball and PB Parks and Recreation will be hosting the Under the Sea Formal Dance tonight.

Officials say the event is being held in honor of BuddyBall participants and friends in the community with mental, physical, and developmental disabilities. The event is open to anyone living with disabilities along with their families.

The Dance is scheduled to begin at 5:30 pm at the Black River Coliseum. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $25.

You can find more information on the PB Buddy Ball Facebook page.

ALABAMA MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO BEING INVOLVED IN THEFT OF ALMOST 17,000 PILLS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

An Alabama man has pleaded guilty to being involved in the theft of thousands of pills from a Kennett pharmacy last year.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 31 year old Cornelius Bray, of Birmingham, pleaded guilty last week to one count of intent to steal a controlled substance and one count of possession with intent to distribute hydrocodone.

Bray admitted to acting as the driver for David Jerome Evans, who broke into a pharmacy in March of 2025. An officer attempted to stop Bray, but he sped away, eventually crashing the vehicle. Evans was arrested. Bray fled but was arrested later.

Officers found numerous pill bottles in the wreckage, as well as a large blue crowbar, a black face mask and Bray’s wallet and cell phone. Officials say that the men stole 16,800 pills, including 7,500 hydrocodone pills and 7,500 pills containing benzodiazepine drugs.

Evans, also of Birmingham, previously pleaded guilty to the same charges and was sentenced to 78 months in prison.

Bray is scheduled to be sentenced on October 1st.

MAN CHARGED WITH AGGRAVATED ASSAULT AFTER ALLEGEDLY CHOKING FAMILY MEMBER

A man is facing a felony charge in Northeast Arkansas after allegedly assaulting a family member.

According to a warrant affidavit, a victim reported to police that 45 year old Timothy Dillard Jr., of Paragould, had wrapped his hands around their neck which made them unable to breathe.

The victim also provided photos which depicted marks on their neck consistent with being choked.

Dillard was booked into the Greene County Jail on Saturday on a charge of aggravated assault on a family or household member.

His bond was set at $75,000.

RIPLEY COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT

Route 142 in Ripley 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 at the intersection of Route E and Route 142.

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

Monday, July 6, 2026

SUSPECT IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING 14 HOUR MANHUNT IN CARTER COUNTY

A shooting suspect is in custody following an extensive manhunt in Carter County.

According to the Carter County Sheriff Alonzo Bradwell, at approximately 7:20 pm on Saturday, law enforcement personnel responded to a report of gunfire at a residence located on County Road 330. Upon arrival, officers discovered three victims who had sustained injuries at the scene.

The suspect, identified as 28 year old Peter Taylor, fled on foot into a nearby wooded area.

Officials say that following an approximately 14-hour operation, deputies located Taylor near the original incident scene and took him into custody.

Charges have not been released at this time.

SUBJECT DROWNS IN CURRENT RIVER NEAR DONIPHAN, INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY

The Ripley County Sheriff's Department is investigating a drowning that occurred Sunday evening on the Current River near Doniphan.

Ripley County Sheriff Rad Talburt tells KWOC News that emergency crews were dispatched to an area near Float Camp at approximately 7 pm after receiving a report of a missing person.

A body was later recovered from the river.

Few details have been released at this time, including the identity of the victim.

The investigation is being handled by the Ripley County Sheriff's Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

DOINPHAN WOMAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

A Doniphan woman was killed in a single vehicle crash over the holiday weekend.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the 45 year old woman was driving on Missouri Highway 21, ten miles north of Doniphan, when her vehicle ran off the road, struck an embankment, and overturned.

The crash occurred at around 4 pm Saturday afternoon.

Officials say that the woman was pronounced dead at the scene by Ripley County coroner Mike Jackson.

DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO VOTE IN MISSOURI IS WEDNESDAY FOR UPCOMING PRIMARY ELECTION

The deadline is approaching to make sure you are registered to vote in Missouri for the upcoming election.

According to the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office, the last day to register to vote in Missouri for the primary election is July 8th.

The primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, August 4th.

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

CARUTHERSVILLE MAN CONVICTED ON FIRST DEGREE MURDER CHARGE

A Caruthersville man will be sentenced in August following his conviction on a murder charge.

Pemiscot County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Ryan Dicus tells KWOC News that 33 year old Wendell Prather, has been convicted of first-degree murder and armed criminal action following a four day jury trial last week in Pemiscot County.

The conviction stems from the fatal shooting of 26 year old Keniqua Jones, of Caruthersville, that occurred in July of 2018.

Prather is scheduled to be sentenced on August 19th. Dicus says that under Missouri law, first-degree murder carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

SURFACE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT BEGINS TODAY IN DUNKLIN AND NEW MADRID COUNTIES

Contractor crews will be making driving surface improvements on Route D in Dunklin and New Madrid Counties over the next two months.

Route D will have a 12-foot width restriction from Route 25 in Dunklin County to Route 61 in New Madrid County while work is underway.

Officials say that crews will be on site from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Monday, August 31st.

Drivers should anticipate short, intermittent lane closures and traffic will be directed with the use of flaggers and a pilot car.

US HIGHWAY 60/62 BRIDGE OVER MISSISSIPPI RIVER TO BE CLOSED THIS WEEK

A major bridge connecting Southeast Missouri to Southern Illinois will be closed for parts of this week.

The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced that the U.S. 60/62 bridge over the Mississippi River will be closed from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily through Friday for maintenance work.

Officials say that message boards will be in place to alert motorists of the closure. Work is expected to be completed by Friday.

Monday, July 6, 2026

DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO VOTE IN MISSOURI FOR UPCOMING PRIMARY ELECTION IS WEDNESDAY

The deadline is approaching to make sure you are registered to vote in Missouri for the upcoming election.

According to the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office, the last day to register to vote in Missouri for the primary election is July 8th.

The primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, August 4th.

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

POPLAR BLUFF BUDDY BALL TO HOST UNDER THE SEA FORMAL DANCE

Poplar Bluff Buddy Ball and PB Parks and Recreation will be hosting the Under the Sea Formal Dance this week.

Officials say the event is being held in honor of BuddyBall participants and friends in the community with mental, physical, and developmental disabilities. The event is open to anyone living with disabilities along with their families.

The Dance is scheduled to begin at 5:30 pm on Tuesday at the Black River Coliseum. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $25.

You can find more information on the PB Buddy Ball Facebook page.

ANNUAL POLLARD PICNIC SCHEDULED FOR JULY 11TH

The date for the Annual Pollard Picnic in Northeast Arkansas is coming up.

The event will be held on Saturday, July 11th in Pollard, Arkansas, and will feature multiple attractions for the entire family as well as the annual Pollard Beauty Pageants.

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

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

All funds made during the pageant will go to the upkeep of the New Hope Cemetery in Pollard.

LOW INTEREST FEDERAL DISASTER LOANS STILL AVAILABLE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES IMPACTED BY LAST YEAR’S SPRING STORMS

Area business owners can still apply for low interest loans if they were affected by the late March and early April storms from last year.

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, low-interest federal disaster loans are still available to small businesses and private non profit organizations to offset economic losses caused by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding occurring between March 30 and April 8, 2025.

The disaster declaration covers 41 Missouri counties including Butler, Carter, Dunklin, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Ripley, Stoddard, and Wayne, as well as nine Arkansas counties including Clay, Greene, and Randolph.

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for businesses and 3.625% for private nonprofits with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The deadline to apply is July 22nd.

To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster.

SURFACE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT BEGINS TODAY IN DUNKLIN AND NEW MADRID COUNTIES

Contractor crews will be making driving surface improvements on Route D in Dunklin and New Madrid Counties over the next two months.

Route D will have a 12-foot width restriction from Route 25 in Dunklin County to Route 61 in New Madrid County while work is underway.

Officials say that crews will be on site from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Monday, August 31st.

Drivers should anticipate short, intermittent lane closures and traffic will be directed with the use of flaggers and a pilot car.

US HIGHWAY 60/62 BRIDGE OVER MISSISSIPPI RIVER TO BE CLOSED THIS WEEK

A major bridge connecting Southeast Missouri to Southern Illinois will be closed for parts of this week.

The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced that the U.S. 60/62 bridge over the Mississippi River will be closed from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily through Friday for maintenance work.

Officials say that message boards will be in place to alert motorists of the closure. Work is expected to be completed by Friday.

Thursday, July 2, 2026

POPLAR BLUFF TO CELEBRATE THE FOURTH OF JULY ON SATURDAY

Poplar Bluff residents will be out celebrating the Fourth of July this Saturday.

The celebration will start Saturday morning with the Red, White, and Run 5K run and walk beginning at 7:30 am. Proceeds from the run will go to Haven House.

Check in and Registration will begin at 7 am at the Square in downtown Poplar Bluff.

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

ONE KILLED, ANOTHER INJURED, IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH NEAR SENATH

Crews responded to the scene of a fatal crash early Wednesday morning in Dunklin County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a vehicle ran off of US Highway 412 at approximately 1 am before striking a ditch, overturning, and ejecting both of its occupants.

The driver, identified as a 24 year old Kennett man, was pronounced dead at the scene by Dunklin County Coroner James Powell.

The passenger was flown to a Memphis hospital with serious injuries.

HIGHWAY PATROL PREPARING FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY TRAFFIC

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

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

During the 2025 counting period, 13 people were killed and 415 were injured in Missouri during 993 traffic crashes. Troopers also arrested 118 people for driving while intoxicated.

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

Boaters should also remember that Missouri Law prohibits the discharge of fireworks from a vessel.

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

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI ATHLETES TAKE HOME SILVER MEDALS AT THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS USA GAMES

Multiple Southeast Missouri athletes are bringing home silver medals from the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.

According to Special Olympics Missouri, Kayla Dannenmueller, of Sikeston, won silver medals in the bowling singles and unified female doubles competitions. Dannenmueller, was also a part of the Unified Bowling team that brought home a bronze medal.

The Missouri Volleyball team also won a silver medal. That team included Logan Gardner from Sikeston, as well as from Daniel Fultz, Lucas Blattel, and Nathaniel Schwind, of Chaffee along with athletes from Cape Girardeau, Jackson, and Sedgewickville.

The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games were held last week in Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota.

FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS

If you are going to be shooting off fireworks at home during the summer season, officials are reminding you to do so in a safe manner.

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

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

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

Do not light fireworks in any areas where the sparks could ignite dry grass, leaves, or other potential fire fuel.

Also remember to check with local ordinances and authorities for bans on fireworks and open burning.

MISS AND MISTER LITTLE FIRECRACKER BEAUTY PAGEANT SET FOR FRIDAY

A beauty pageant will be held on Friday in Poplar Bluff.

The Miss and Mister Little Firecracker Beauty Pageant will begin at 6 pm at the Poplar Bluff Holiday Inn.

Doors will open at 5 pm.

There will be divisions for girls up to 26 years of age. There will also be three divisions for young boys as well.

Admission to the pageant for spectators is $5.

For more information, call 573-718-8448.

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

OFFICIALS URGE CAUTION FOR AREA RESIDENTS DUE TO CONTINUING HIGH TEMPERATURES THIS WEEK

Officials with the American Red Cross are urging Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas residents to be cautious with the extremely high temperatures this week.

The excessive heat warning for the region has been extended until 8 pm on Friday. Weather officials say that daily maximum heat index readings in Poplar Bluff could remain over 100 degrees through the holiday weekend.

According to the Red Cross, everyone is at risk when temperatures rise; and the elderly and the very young are most susceptible to heat and heat-related illnesses. Signs of heat-related illnesses include nausea, dizziness, flushed or pale skin, heavy sweating and headaches.

Persons with heat-related illness should be moved to a cool place, given cool water to drink and ice packs or cool wet cloths should be applied to the skin. If a victim refuses water, vomits or loses consciousness, call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number immediately.

Everyone is advised to take extra precautions if you plan to work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.

You can find more information online at RedCross.org.

MONDAY NIGHT EARTHQUAKE SHAKES BUTLER COUNTY

An earthquake shook Northwestern Butler County Monday night.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.9 earthquake was recorded at around 10:41 pm on Monday.

The earthquake was centered approximately 8.7 miles south southwest of Williamsville and had a depth of less than a mile.

As of press time, around a dozen people had reported feeling the earthquake to the USGS.

MULTIPLE AREA CREWS RESPOND TO FARM SHOP FIRE IN STODDARD COUNTY

Multiple area fire departments responded to a potentially dangerous situation Monday in Stoddard County.

According to the Advance Fire Department, mutual aid tanker support was requested to respond to a structure fire near Highway 60 and FF.

Officials say the fire involved a farm shop with propane tank exposures.

Fire crews from Advance, Dexter, Essex, Bernie, Bloomfield, and Morehouse all responded to the scene, as did the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department and Ambulance District.

No injuries have been reported.

APPLICATION PERIOD OPENS FOR MANAGED DEER HUNTS IS MISSOURI

The application period for managed deer hunts in Missouri is now open.

According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, deer hunters can apply online this month through the MDC website for a shot at more than 140 managed deer hunts throughout the state this fall and winter.

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

The application period will be through July 31st and hunters will be selected by a weighted random drawing. Draw results will be available starting August 15th.

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

LADIES ONLY EVENT COMING UP ON THURSDAY AT R.W. HUNTINGTON POOL IN POPLAR BLUFF

A special ladies only event is coming this week in Poplar Bluff that will give area women a chance to relax around the pool.

The R.W. Huntington Pool is hosting Sip and Swim from 1 pm to 5 pm on Thursday.

For only $2, ladies will be able to enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the pool to enjoy a drink and refresh away from the kids. Children can be checked in at the tennis courts for supervised activities.

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

SURFACE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT SET UNDERWAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Contractor crews will be making driving surface improvements on Route F in Dunklin County over the next month.

Route F will have a 12-foot width restriction between Route 412 and the Arkansas State Line while work is underway.

Officials say that crews will be on site from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Friday, July 31st.

Drivers should anticipate short, intermittent lane closures and traffic will be directed with the use of flaggers and a pilot car.

Tuesday, June 30, 2026

COOLING ITEM GIVEAWAY TO BE HELD TODAY AT MISSOURI HIGHLANDS HEALTH CARE IN POPLAR BLUFF

Missouri Highlands Health Care will be distributing cooling items to area residents today during the ongoing heatwave.

Beginning at 9 this morning, Missouri Highlands will have free box fans, neck fans, and cooling towels at their Copper Top location.

Supplies are limited so area residents are encouraged to stop by Copper Top early to pick up some items to help you stay cool.

BUTLER COUNTY COLLECTOR REMINDS SENIOR CITIZENS TO APPLY FOR OR RENEW YOUR PROPERTY TAX FREEZE BY 4 PM THIS AFTERNOON

Butler County senior citizens are being reminded to contact the county collector’s office to apply for or renew their senior citizen property tax freeze.

Butler County Collector Emily Parks tells KWOC News that residents 62 years of age or older who qualify for the tax freeze have until 4pm this afternoon to complete the application.

Parks added that renewals must also be done every year during the open enrollment period and that residents just need to bring their driver’s license to the collector’s office.

For more information, call 573-686-8088.

MULTIPLE AREA SEX OFFENDERS RECENTLY ARRESTED FOR RESIDING TOO CLOSE TO A SCHOOL

Multiple area sex offenders were recently taken into custody for living too close to schools.

A recent joint operation between the Poplar Bluff Police Department and Butler County Sheriff’s Department led to authorities arresting Brice Anthony Harley, James Michael Henry Johnson, David Ellic Straw, Harold Tidwell, William Phillips, and James Allen Kuhnle.

Officials say that they are each sex offenders who were residing within 1000 feet of a school.

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

The deadline is here to register for the Annual Jo Nell Seifert Children’s Drama Camp at Three Rivers College.

The camp for students entering 2nd to 8th grade will begin on July 13th at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center on the Three Rivers College Poplar Bluff campus. There will be two separate one week camps this year, one beginning July 13th and the other starting July 27th.

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

The deadline to register for both camps is today. More information is available on the Three Rivers College Facebook page.

ROAD CLOSURE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

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

The section of roadway being closed is located from County Road 237 to County Road 249.

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

CREWS TO CLOSE ROUTE UU IN DUNKLIN COUNTY THIS WEEK FOR BRIDGE MAINTENANCE

Route UU in Dunklin County will be closed this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform bridge maintenance.

The bridge involved is located between County Roads 729 and 725 near Kennett.

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

Monday, June 29, 2026

DANGEROUS HEAT AND HUMIDITY EXPECTED FOR THIS WEEK

The first extended heat wave of the summer has started in Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas.

According to the National Weather Service, daily highs are expected to be in the mid 90’s for much of this week, with heat index values possibly getting around 105 degrees.

The heat and humidity will increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities.

Everyone is reminded to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room out of the sun if possible, and check up on relatives and neighbors.

Take extra precautions if you have to work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours.

Officials say that an Extreme Heat Warning will be in effect from 11 am this morning through 8 pm on Thursday.

Multiple cooling centers will be open to help residents stay out of the heat and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services has also provided a tool to find cooling centers in your area. A link to the tool is available on our Facebook page.

MAN ARRESTED FOLLOWING INVESTIGATION INTO SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING A CHILD

A man has been taken into custody in Carter County for alleged sexual offenses against a juvenile.

According to Carter County Sheriff Alonzo Bradwell, Willard Campbell, of Ellsinore, was arrested Thursday on four counts of statutory sodomy or attempted statutory sodomy, one count of child molestation in the first degree, and one count of statutory rape or attempted statutory rape in the first degree.

Sheriff Bradwell says that the investigation was in connection to multiple severe offenses involving a child less than 14 years old.

MAN DIES FROM INJURIES HE RECEIVED DURING SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

An area man has died from injuries he received over the weekend during a single vehicle crash.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 61 year old Steele man was driving on Route DD, near Cooter, when his vehicle ran off the side of the roadway, struck a ditch, and overturned.

The crash occurred Saturday afternoon, shortly before 4 pm.

The man was flown to a Memphis hospital where he was pronounced dead Sunday morning.

PIEDMONT TO HOST PUBLIC HEARING FOR GRANT APPLICATION

The city of Piedmont will be holding a public hearing today to discuss a grant application.

The hearing is scheduled for 5 pm at the Piedmont City Hall to discuss the city’s submission of a Demolition application for the Fiscal Year 26 Community Development Block Grant program.

The city is proposing to demolish vacant structures within the city limits. The total project cost is estimated at a maximum of $200,000.

The city would contribute approximately $250 per structure in cash while property owners must consent and provide $500 for residential structures or 20 percent of demolition costs for commercial properties with grant funds to make up the balance.

For more information on the proposed project, contact City Clerk Morgan Robinson at 573-223-7660.

CREWS RESPOND TO MULTIPLE REPORTS OF SMOKE AT FORMER POPLAR BLUFF HOSPITAL

Fire crews responded to the location of a former hospital in Poplar Bluff over the weekend.

On Friday, firefighters were dispatched to the former Doctors Regional Medical Center after smoke was observed coming from the vacant building. Crews discovered a piece of equipment left inside the building had caught fire.

Crews once again responded to the building Sunday morning following reports of smoke coming from the building.

Officials say that the former hospital has been vacant for several years, has no active utilities, and has been boarded up.

No injuries have been reported.

WORK SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK ON INTERSTATE 55 IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Northbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane for the early part of this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance. 

The section of roadway being reduced is located from mile marker 16.5 to mile marker 17.8.

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

Friday, June 26, 2026

FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT THROUGH SATURDAY, TO BE FOLLOWED BY HOT TEMPS ON SUNDAY

Possible heavy rainfall could cause flood conditions through the first part of this weekend.

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, a flood watch is in effect for most of Southeast Missouri through Saturday morning. Multiple rounds of thunderstorms are expected through Friday night and officials say that repeated rounds of heavy rainfall from the storms could produce flash flooding.

On Sunday, temperatures are expected to rise to the low to mid 90’s, possibly reaching the high 90’s by mid week.

Heat index values are forecast to be over 100 degrees beginning Monday and continuing for multiple days.

VISITATION FOR GENE BESS TO BE HELD TODAY AT FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH IN POPLAR BLUFF

Visitation will be held today for Hall of Fame Basketball Coach Gene Bess.

Last Friday, Bess passed away at the age of 91 at his home in Poplar Bluff.

Bess is the winningest college basketball coach of all time, finishing his 50 year tenure as head basketball coach at Three Rivers College with 1300 wins and two national championships.

In addition to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Bess is also a member of the Poplar Bluff Sports Hall of Fame, the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, and the NJCAA Hall of Fame.

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 pm tonight at First Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff. Funeral services will follow on Saturday in Charleston.

POPLAR BLUFF JROTC CADETS FINISH IN TOP 11 AT NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Four Poplar Bluff High School students finished in the top 11 of a national competition earlier this month.

According to school officials, four cadets from the PBHS JROTC represented the school at the prestigious JROTC Leadership and Academic Bowl National Championship in Washington, D.C.

Poplar Bluff’s team consisted of senior cadets Ayema Ahsan and Victoria Pennell, along with junior cadets Levi Ferguson and Kayleigh Henderson. The Poplar Bluff team was one of 32 teams from the JROTC Army division and went 6-4 overall to finish in the top 11.

The JLAB National Championship brings together elite four-person teams from all branches of JROTC and challenges students to showcase both academic excellence and leadership skills.

GOAT TO BE SHOWN AT MOVIE IN THE PARK TONIGHT

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

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

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

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

FIREWORKS TO LIGHT UP LAKE WAPPAPELLO ON SATURDAY

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

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

Multiple attractions will be at the Recreation Area that day beginning around 3 pm, including live music, food trucks, and a petting zoo.

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

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

ALABAMA MAN SENTENCED TO OVER TWO DECADES IN PRISON FOR BURGLARY AND CHASE IN MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

An Alabama man will spend over two decades behind bars in connection to a burglary in Southeast Missouri.

According to Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney Nicholas Jain, 31 year old David Jerome Evans, of Birmingham, Alabama, has been sentenced to 25 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections for the March 2025, burglary of a Kennett pharmacy.

Following the burglary, Evans led officers on a high speed chase before eventually crashing in Pemiscot County.

Evans pleaded guilty to burglary in the second degree, delivery of a controlled substance, stealing a controlled substance, and aggravated fleeing. The sentences on each of the four counts were imposed consecutively, totaling 25 years to serve in the Missouri Department of Corrections.

Evans was previously sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for his role in the burglary, and he faces additional charges in Alabama and Kentucky related to other pharmacy burglaries.

Thursday, June 25, 2026

VEHICLE CRASHES INTO BUSINESS DURING PURSUIT, DRIVER PRONOUNCED DEAD

A man has died after he crashed his vehicle during a pursuit with police on Wednesday.

New Madrid County Sheriff Joey Higgerson tells KWOC News that New Madrid Police officers responded to a report of a subject brandishing a gun at around noon Wednesday.

When officers arrived, the suspect fled in a vehicle, leading officers and New Madrid County Sheriff’s Deputies on a high speed pursuit. The pursuit was from New Madrid to Portageville where officers deployed spike strips that were hit by the vehicle.

A short time later the vehicle left the road and struck a business.

The driver of the vehicle was declared deceased at the scene by the New Madrid County Coroner. Sheriff Higgerson says that the identity of the deceased has not been released at this time and an autopsy is scheduled for Friday.

There were no injuries for people who were in the building that was struck or for officers involved.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON CHILD ABUSE CHARGE

Authorities in Stoddard County have arrested a Dexter man on a child abuse charge.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, 23 year old Nathaniel Thurston was taken into custody Tuesday on a Stoddard County warrant for abuse or neglect of a child - serious emotional or physical injury and endangering the welfare of a child involving drugs - 1st degree.

According to a probable cause affidavit, the charges stem from an investigation that began in March concerning an infant who had multiple injuries, including a skull fracture.

Thurston is being held in the Stoddard County Jail and officials say that no bond has been set at this time.

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH NEAR HAYTI

One person has died following a single vehicle crash near Hayti.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that a 39 year old man, from Millington, Tennessee, was driving on US Highway 412 Tuesday evening when his vehicle skidded, overturned, and struck a ditch.

The driver was ejected during the wreck and later pronounced dead at the scene by the Pemiscot County Coroner.

SPECIAL EVENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY TO HELP AREA RESIDENTS PROTECT THEIR PERSONAL INFORMATION ONLINE

A special event will be held today in Poplar Bluff to teach area residents on how they can protect their personal information online.

The Butler County University of Missouri Extension will be presenting the free workshop at 2 pm today at the main branch of the Poplar Bluff Library.

The course will explain how you can recognize spam and phishing attempts, create safe passwords, shop online securely, and go over safe use of social media.

POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY HOSTING MYSTERY MOVIE TODAY FOR TEENS

The Poplar Bluff Library will be hosting a mystery movie event today for local teens.

The “Whodunnit?” Movie Matinee and Clue Night is today from 4 to 6 pm at the Library’s Main Branch.

There will be free popcorn, vintage sodas, crafts, and board games as well as a showing of the classic movie “And Then There Were None.”

More information is available on the Poplar Bluff Library Facebook page.

JUVENILE ARRESTED ON GUN CHARGE IN SIKESTON

A juvenile was taken into custody this week on firearm and drug charges.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, on Sunday, officers responded to Lincoln Park for a report of a subject with a firearm.

Officers located a juvenile inside a vehicle and during the interaction, the juvenile resisted officers while being detained.

Multiple firearms were located on the juvenile. One of the firearms recovered had the serial numbers scratched off and was illegally modified with an auto sear device.

Officers also later located a yellow hand pressed pill, which tested positive for methamphetamine, as well as marijuana.

The juvenile has been charged through the Scott County Juvenile Courts with possession of an illegal firearm, possession of a defaced firearm, felony resisting arrest, possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana.

Wednesday, June 24, 2026

WAPPAPELLO RESIDENT KILLED IN TUESDAY MORNING CRASH

A Wappapello resident was pronounced dead at the scene of a crash Tuesday in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the man was driving on Route T when a vehicle pulled into his path. The crash occurred at around 11:40 am, four miles south of Wappapello.

Butler County Coroner Jim Akers has confirmed to KWOC News that the deceased was identified as 85 year old Gayle Arnold.

No injuries were listed for the driver of the other vehicle.

ONE KILLED, THREE INJURED, IN CARTER COUNTY CRASH

One person has died following a crash Tuesday evening in Carter County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at around 9:30 pm on Highway 60, in Ellsinore, when a vehicle failed to yield to another vehicle.

The driver of the second vehicle, identified as a 35 year old male from Ellsinore, was pronounced dead at the scene by Carter County Coroner Joe Chatman.

The driver of the first vehicle suffered serious injuries in the crash and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital. The passenger in the first vehicle also suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to a Springfield hospital.

The passenger in the second vehicle received serious injuries and was airlifted to a St. Louis hospital. 

MAN FACING ALMOST 40 CHARGES IN CONNECTION TO CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE INVESTIGATION IN WAYNE COUNTY

Authorities in Wayne County say that an area man is facing multiple charges in connection to an investigation into a child sexual abuse case.

Wayne County Sheriff Kyle Shearrer tells KWOC News that the investigation started in April and multiple juveniles were involved in the matter.

Formal charges have been requested for 42 year old Jacob Fox Sr., formerly of Marble Hill.

Shearrer says that the requested charges total 39 various felony charges, all of a sexual nature.

TORNADO IN SHANNON COUNTY CONFIRMED TO HAVE BEEN AN EF-0

Survey crews in Shannon County have confirmed that a tornado touched down on Sunday.

According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, the EF-0 tornado initially touched down at approximately 8 pm Sunday in a wooded area southeast of Eminence at the west end of County Road H-522.

The tornado damaged a barn and then both broke and uprooted trees as it crossed Highway H and moved along Highway NN to the Rocky Falls Shut In area off County Road NN-526.

The tornado had estimated peak winds of 80 miles per hour, a maximum width of 200 yards, and was on the ground for 2.7 miles.

No injuries were reported.

WOMEN’S WELLNESS DAY EVENT SET FOR TODAY IN KENNETT

An event centered on women’s health has been scheduled for today in Kennett.

The FCC Behavioral Health Clubhouse on Highway VV will be hosting Women’s Wellness Day today from 10 am to 4 pm.

There will be food bags, giveaways, health screenings, community resources, and more.

Officials say the focus for Women’s Wellness Day is women’s health, wellness, and community support.

More information is available on the FCC Behavioral Health Facebook page.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE DELAYS THIS WEEK IN WAYNE COUNTY

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

The section of roadway being closed is located from Route TT to County Road 511. Officials say that while work takes place, the road will be open to local traffic only.

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

DONIPHAN ROAD TO BE SHUT DOWN THIS MORNING FOR SERVICE LINE REPAIRS

Road Crews will be working today on Barton Road in Doniphan.

According to Doniphan city officials, the 700 block of Barton Road will be shut down to through traffic today starting at 7am for service line repairs.

Officials say the road will be reopened as soon as repairs are completed and motorists are advised to use caution in the area.

Tuesday, June 23, 2026

IDENTITY RELEASED OF BODY FOUND OVER THE WEEKEND IN THE QULIN AREA

Officials have released the identity of a body that was found over the weekend in Butler County.

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs tells KWOC News that the body was discovered Saturday afternoon on County Road 659 in Qulin.

According to Butler County Coroner Jim Akers, the body has been identified as Tevon Youngblood-Miller.

Akers added that an autopsy was performed on Monday and the results are still pending.

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

SUNDAY AFTERNOON CRASH LEAVES ONE PERSON DEAD IN MISSOURI BOOTHEEL

One person has died following a two vehicle crash over the weekend in the Missouri Bootheel.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 70 year old Hayti Heights woman was driving on Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County when her vehicle collided with another vehicle.

The woman’s vehicle then ran off the side of the roadway and overturned.

She was pronounced dead at the scene by Pemiscot County Coroner Bryan Irions at around 4 pm Sunday.

WOMAN WINS $50,000 FROM SCRATCHERS TICKET PURCHASED IN NEELYVILLE

A woman is $50,000 richer thanks to a scratchers ticket she purchased in Butler County.

According to the Missouri Lottery, the winner said the clerk at a Neelyville business gave her a big hug when she showed her that she had won $50,000 from a “$250 Million Extravaganza” ticket.

Lottery officials say that players in Butler County won more than $8 million in Missouri Lottery prizes during fiscal year 2025.

DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO VOTE FOR UPCOMING PRIMARY ELECTION IN MISSOURI IS JULY 8TH

The deadline is approaching to make sure you are registered to vote in Missouri for the upcoming election.

According to the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office, the last day to register to vote in Missouri for the primary election is July 8th.

The primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, August 4th.

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

POSSIBLE TORNADOES REPORTED SUNDAY IN SHANNON COUNTY

Possible tornadoes were reported Sunday in Shannon County.

According to Shannon County Sheriff Steven Hogan, numerous large trees were blown across Route H after a possible tornado crossed the highway.

Sheriff Hogan says that an area citizen also reported seeing two tornadoes in the Rocky Falls Area. The report also said that a structure had been blown away on Route NN.

No injuries have been reported.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO FORCE CLOSURE OF WAYNE COUNTY ROAD TODAY

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

The work zone will be located between County Roads 516 and 524.

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

Monday June 22, 2026

LEGENDARY THREE RIVERS COACH GENE BESS PASSES AWAY  

A Hall of Fame Basketball Coach has passed away. 

Coach Gene Bess died Friday morning at his residence in Poplar Bluff at the age of 91. 

Bess built a Hall of Fame career during his 50 years as head basketball coach at Three Rivers College, becoming one of the most successful coaches in the history of the sport. He won more games than any college basketball coach at any level, finishing his career with an overall record of 1,300 wins and 416 losses. 

Bess led the Three Rivers Raiders to two national championships, winning titles in 1979 and 1992. He also became the first college basketball coach to reach 1,000 career wins. In 2023, Bess was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. 

Under Bess, Three Rivers won 23 region championships, recorded 20 or more wins in 42 seasons, and won 30 or more games 16 times. 

The Raiders also made 17 appearances in the NJCAA National Tournament, reaching the national championship game four times and the semifinals four additional times. 

In addition to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Bess is also a member of the Poplar Bluff Sports Hall of Fame, the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, and the NJCAA Hall of Fame.

INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY AFTER A BODY WAS FOUND IN QULIN 

Butler County Sheriff Mark Dobbs has confirmed to KWOC News that authorities are investigating after a body was discovered Saturday afternoon in Qulin on County Road 659. 

At this time, no additional information has been released, and officials have not provided details regarding the identity of the individual or the circumstances surrounding the discovery. 

The investigation is ongoing and involves the Butler County Sheriff's Department, the Butler County Coroner's Office, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. 

KWOC News will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as more information becomes available.

DEADLY SHOOTING UNDER INVESTIGATION IN WAYNE COUNTY 

Authorities are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred Saturday in Wayne County. 

Wayne County Sheriff Kyle Shearrer tells KWOC News, that deputies responded to a report of a shooting Saturday, and found one person unresponsive at the scene. 

During the investigation, authorities identified a suspect who is believed to be the only person involved in the incident. The suspect was taken into custody without incident. 

The Missouri State Highway Patrol's Division of Drug and Crime Control has been called in to assist with the investigation.

At this time, the names of both the victim and the suspect are being withheld. 

The suspect is currently facing charges of Second-Degree Murder, Armed Criminal Action, and Tampering with Physical Evidence.

The investigation remains ongoing. 

KWOC News will continue to follow this story and provide updates as additional information becomes available.

FIREWORKS TO LIGHT UP LAKE WAPPAPELLO ON SATURDAY  

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

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

Multiple attractions will be at the Recreation Area that day beginning around 3 pm, including a live music, food trucks, and petting zoo. 

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

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

BATTLE OF THE BADGES BLOOD DRIVE SCHEDULED FOR EARLY JULY 

Reservations are now being accepted for the Battle of the Badges Blood Drive in Poplar Bluff. 

The Blood Drive has been scheduled for Friday, July 10th, at Larry Hillis Dodge on North Westwood Boulevard. 

Anyone wanting to donate can call 1-800 Red Cross or visit RedCrossBlood.org.

PB BUDDY BALL TO WRAP UP 2026 SEASON TOMORROW 

The Poplar Bluff Buddy Ball season will finish up on Tuesday. 

There are three games scheduled for tomorrow night at Poplar Bluff High School. The first game featuring younger league players will start at 5:30 pm and will be followed by two older leagues games at 6:30 pm. 

End of year awards will also be handed out following each game. 

Buddy Ball gives an opportunity to athletes with mental and physical developmental disabilities to compete and have fun in a safe and supportive environment.

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION SPONSOR A HIGHWAY PROGRAM NOW AVAILABLE STATEWIDE  

Area organizations now have the opportunity to take a hand in keeping Southeast Missouri looking beautiful. 

The Missouri Department of Transportation’s Sponsor-A-Highway program, previously exclusive to the St. Louis and Kansas City areas, is now available statewide, providing an expanded opportunity to help keep roadsides cleaner and safer across the state. 

Businesses, organizations, community groups and individuals can sponsor one-mile highway sections statewide through a MoDOT-certified service provider, to handle litter removal and related maintenance on their behalf. 

Most highways in Missouri are now included in the Sponsor-A-Highway program, with the vast majority of roadway miles open for sponsorship. 

Through the service provider, each sponsored roadway is cleaned at least once per month, or more frequently as needed. In recognition of their support, sponsors receive Sponsor-A-Highway signage displaying their name and logo along the designated stretch of highway. 

To participate in the Sponsor-A-Highway program, call 800-499-2367 or visit adoptahighway.net/missouri.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI ATHLETES TO COMPETE IN SPECIAL OLYMPICS USA GAMES THIS WEEK  

Multiple Southeast Missouri athletes will be participating in the Special Olympics USA Games this week. 

Team Missouri will include two athletes from the Sikeston area. Kayla Dannenmuller will be competing in bowling, while Logan Gardner is a member of the Volleyball team. Melody Gardner, also of Sikeston, will serve as a volleyball coach. 

According to the Special Olympics USA Games website, both the Bowling and Volleyball competitions will begin today in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

PORTAGEVILLE CITY PARK TO HOST PORTAGEVILLE FREEDOM FEST ON JULY 4TH  

The Portageville Jaycees are hosting a celebration of America for the 4th of July. 

Portageville Freedom Fest is scheduled for 9 am to 6 pm on Saturday, July 4th at Portageville City Park. 

There will be multiple attractions and vendors for this year’s event.

For more information, call 573-391-3212.

Friday June 19, 2026

WATERFEST SET FOR SATURDAY AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE  

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

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

Park Rangers will be on hand to play games, teach visitors how to stay safe around the water, and give away prizes to participating beachgoers.

For more information, contact the Wappapello Lake Management Office at 573-222-7500.

BACON PARK TO HOST JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

Bacon Park in Poplar Bluff has been chosen as the location for the 2026 Juneteenth celebration.

The event will begin at 10 am on Saturday, June 20th. 

There will be multiple events and vendors as a part of this year’s Juneteenth celebration, including a car show, a basketball tournament, talent show, arts and crafts, and a fireworks show.

For more information, contact Harvey Heard at 573-712-0719.

MULTIPLE BANDS TO PERFORM THIS WEEKEND TO BENEFIT THE ANIMAL WELFARE ALLIANCE

Multiple bands will be taking the stage this weekend to raise money for the Animal Welfare Alliance No-Kill Shelter.

The Animal Welfare Alliance’s Band-A-Palooza will begin at 6:30 pm on Saturday at The Camp at Lake Wappapello.

Tickets are $10 at the gate and will allow you to see performances by Upland South Trio, Just Enough, Rio and the Only Dads, and more. Kids age 10 and under get in for free.

There will also be multiple raffles during the event.

More information is available on the Animal Welfare Alliance of Southeast Missouri’s Facebook page.

DRIVER EXAMINATION STATIONS TO BE TODAY FOR JUNETEENTH

Missouri state officials are reminding motorists that driver examinations will not be available today.

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

Officials say that normal operations will resume on Monday.

FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS

If you are going to be shooting off fireworks at home during the summer season, officials are reminding you to do so in a safe manner.

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

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

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

Do not light fireworks in any areas where the sparks could ignite dry grass, leaves, or other potential fire fuel.

Also remember to check with local ordinances and authorities for bans on fireworks and open burning.

11TH ANNUAL ST. JUDE VIP BANQUET SET FOR AUGUST 7TH

The 11th Annual St. Jude VIP Banquet in Poplar Bluff is coming in August.

The event, put on annually by Poplar Bluff Heroes, is scheduled for Friday, August 7th at the Black River Coliseum.

Officials say that doors will open for the event at 5 pm and in addition to dinner, there will also be Live and Silent Auctions, Games, Raffles, and more.

Tickets can be purchased for $50 each or $575 to reserve a table for 10 people.

For more information, call 573-718-2875.

Thursday June 18, 2026

WIDESPREAD THUNDERSTORMS EXPECTED TODAY WHICH COULD INCLUDE SEVERE WEATHER  

Widespread showers and thunderstorms are expected for today, which brings with it a chance of severe weather. 

According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, there is a marginal risk for most of the area to get severe storms today, mainly this afternoon.

 Locally heavy rainfall and localized flash flooding will also be a concern. 

BUTLER COUNTY COLLECTOR REMINDS SENIOR CITIZENS TO APPLY OR RENEW YOUR PROPERTY TAX FREEZE BY JUNE 30TH  

Butler County senior citizens are being reminded to contact the county collector’s office to apply for or renew their senior citizen property tax freeze. 

Butler County Collector Emily Parks tells KWOC News that residents 62 years of age or older who qualify for the tax freeze have until Tuesday, June 30th to complete the application. 

Parks added that renewals must also be done every year during the open enrollment period and that residents just need to bring their driver’s license to the collector’s office. 

Parks says that her office is also in the process of attempting to contact everyone who is eligible for renewal in order to complete the renewal over the phone. 

For more information, call 573-686-8088.

POPLAR BLUFF PARKS AND RECREATION OFFERING SWIM LESSONS THIS SUMMER  

Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation is offering swimming lessons this summer at the R.W. Huntington Municipal Pool. 

Officials say that the program will run through July 2nd and the cost is $40. Parents can choose from either Monday and Wednesday sessions or Tuesday and Thursday. 

More information about the program, including a link to register, is available on the Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation Facebook page.

POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL OFFICIALS REMIND PARENTS TO GET THEIR STUDENTS VACCINATED FOR THE UPCOMING SCHOOL YEAR  

The new Poplar Bluff school year will be here before we know it and school officials are encouraging parents to be prepared. 

Parents are reminded to make sure that your children are properly immunized before the school year begins. 

Children attending school must be immunized against tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, hepatitis B, varicella, and meningitis. 

Parents of incoming 12th graders are also reminded that two doses of the Meningococcal vaccine are required, unless the first dose was administered to a student who was 16 years of age or older, in which case only one dose is required. 

Parents are being urged to make these appointments now and not wait until right before the school year begins. 

Incoming 8th graders are also recommended to receive the HPV vaccine and incoming 12th graders are recommended one dose of the Meningococcal B vaccine.

 Officials say that documentation must be on file before the first day of school in August and records must include the month, day, and year of each vaccine.

GOAT TO BE SHOWN AT MOVIE IN THE PARK NIGHT ON JUNE 26TH 

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

Movie in the Park will begin at dusk on Friday, June 26th at the Spillway Recreation Area. 

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

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

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.