POPLAR BLUFF BUSINESS TEMPORARILY CLOSES
The Briggs and Stratton factory in Poplar Bluff will be temporarily closed.
Due to the slow operations and inability to acquire components and parts, the business temporarily closed after its third shift on Monday and will remain closed throughout March.
It is scheduled to return to normal operations between April 13th and April 27th.
TWO CASES OF COVID-19 CONFIRMED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY
There have been two confirmed cases of COVID-19 reported in Pemiscot County.
According to the Pemiscot County Health Center, both cases are being examined to determine any close contacts, and that they are not travel related.
Officials in Pemiscot County urge residents not to panic, and to not visit any hospital or emergency rooms. If you are showing symptoms, you are asked to first contact your healthcare provider before taking action.
MISSOURI GOVERNOR SIGNS ORDER ALLOWING RESTAURANTS TO SELL UNPREPARED FOOD
Missouri Governor Mike Parson signed an executive order on Monday that allows restaurants to sell unprepared food.
According to the Governor, the order has been put in place due to the threat caused by the COVID-19 virus, and to assist businesses financially during the period of limited operation, as well as families who need food and ingredients.
The executive order will stay in place throughout March and April, and will end on May 15th, unless extended.
THREE RIVERS COLLEGE IMPLEMENTS HOME WORKING
Three Rivers College has implemented a work-at-home policy to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
According to the college, it closed its doors to the public yesterday, and all employees will be working from home or remote locations, with all classes being moved online.
These changes will continue until April 6th, and the college’s welcome center can be contacted by calling 573-840-9605.
STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED FOR STODDARD COUNTY
Stoddard County has officially been put into a state of emergency by County officials.
The decision was made by a vote from the Stoddard County Commissioners as a response to the COVID-19 virus spread, which voted 3-0 on Monday to put the emergency call into effect immediately, additionally closing the government building.
No cases of the virus have been reported in the County; however, Commissioner Danny Talkington tells KWOC News that the emergency call will allow emergency operation centers to be set up, and will allow funding for sanitization measures and employee payment to be acquired.
THREE ARRESTED IN RIPLEY COUNTY ON DRUG AND WEAPON CHARGES
There were three arrests made in Ripley County on Sunday on drug and weapon charges.
According to the Ripley County Sheriff’s Department, 20 year old Randy Hubbard, 25 year old Daniel Mattison, both of Doniphan, and 21 year old James Parks, of Poplar Bluff, were all arrested on a felony charge of unlawful use of a weapon.
Hubbard was also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, and both he and Parks were additionally charged on distribution of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance – amphetamine, and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.
Following their arrests, the three were transported to the Ripley County Jail.
DEADLINES FOR FILING AND LICENCES EXTENDED FOR MISSOURI
Several deadlines in Missouri have been extended due to the coronavirus spread.
According to the Missouri Department of Revenue, the deadline for tax filing is being extended to July 15th, and extensions for expired licenses and vehicle registrations are being put in place.
Additionally, any expirations taking place between March 1st and April 30th will be extended by 60 days.
BRIDGE IN CLAY COUNTY CLOSING DUE TO STRUCTURE DAMAGE
A bridge in Clay County is closed due to structure damage.
According to the Arkansas Department of Transportation, a bridge on Highway 139 has shut down due to structural damage and deficiencies found during inspection.
It is not known at this time when the bridge will reopen.
