WIND CHILL ADVISORY TO BE IN EFFECT TONIGHT FOR MOST OF SOUTHEAST MISSOURI
Wind chill temperatures are expected to dip back below zero degrees tonight.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, a wind chill advisory will be in effect from 9 pm tonight to 9 am tomorrow morning for most of Southeast Missouri.
Very cold wind chills are anticipated with wind chill values as low as 10 to 14 degrees below zero.
Residents are advised to use caution while traveling outside, including wearing appropriate clothing as well as a hat and gloves.
You can find a map of warming centers in our area on the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services website at health.mo.gov.
AG CONNECT MOVING TO NEW HOME NEXT MONTH
Ag Connect will have a new home this year.
Ag Connect 2024 will be moving to the Bess Activity Center on the campus of Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff from 9 am to 2 pm on February 2nd and 3rd.
Friday, February 2nd is Agriculture Industry Day, with workshops focused on the business of running a farm or livestock operation, along with vendor booths, FFA events, and activities.
Friday night will include the Salute to Ag Dinner beginning with a social reception at 5:30 pm at the Westwood Event Center.
Saturday, February 3rd will be Family Day at Ag Connect, featuring a petting zoo, a pedal tractor pull, educational workshops, and 4-H activities.
Ag Connect 2024 will cost $5 to attend each day, with kids and students getting in for free. Tickets for the salute to Ag Dinner are available for $30 at EventBrite.com, and must be purchased in advance.
Ag Connect 2024 at the Bess Activity Center is hosted by Three Rivers College and the University of Missouri Butler County Extension Office.
For more information, visit trcc.edu/events.
TWO ARRESTED ON FELONY DRUG TRAFFICKING CHARGES IN STODDARD COUNTY
Two people were arrested on felony drug charges this week in Stoddard County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 21 year old Korey Johnson and 20 year old Kortavion Johnson, both of Hayti, were taken into custody Wednesday afternoon on felony charges of drug trafficking 1st degree and resisting arrest for a felony.
Each man is also facing three counts of unlawful use of a weapon.
Following their arrests, both men were held in the Stoddard County Jail.
MISSOURI STATE OFFICIALS ARE WARNING RESIDENTS TO WATCH FOR WINTER WEATHER SCAMS
Missouri state officials are warning state residents to be on the lookout for potential winter weather scams.
Missouri Attorney General Andrw Bailey says that whether its snow, ice or wind, scammers will use the weather conditions to take advantage of you.
Bailey says that a common scam is utility scams. Utility imposters work year-round, but after a storm, they might call or knock on your door saying they need to repair or replace equipment. Then they’ll ask you to pay before the work is completed. Don’t pay them. That is likely a scam.
If someone says they’re from the local utility company, call the utility company and ask for verification. The same goes for anyone who claims they’re a government official or who throws around official-sounding assistance – contact the agency in charge of whatever program you’re being offered and ask for their assistance.
Another common scam is contractor scams. Before you sign on any dotted line or pay anyone anything, make sure that “contractor” is real. Ask if they are licensed and insured and check their paperwork. Contact the BBB and the Attorney General hotline at 800-392-8222 to check on complaints. Ask for referrals and unless you know them, avoid paying in cash. Make sure all work is performed before paying.
TROUT HARVEST TO BEGIN ON FEBRUARY 1ST IN FOUR SOUTHEAST MISSOURI LAKES
Trout can be harvested in four specific Southeast Missouri bodies of water beginning next month.
The Missouri Department of Conservation says that trout may be harvested from the Recreation Complex Pond in Sikeston along with lakes in Jackson, Farmington, and Perryville, beginning February 1st.
Starting then, any bait may be used, and four trout may be kept regardless of size. All anglers between the ages of 16 and 64 must have a valid Missouri fishing permit, and any angler harvesting trout must also possess a trout permit.
The MDC stocked trout in November at the start of the catch-and-release season. Anglers are reminded they must release trout caught now through January 31st.
More information is available at mdc.mo.gov/fishing.
GRANT MONEY AVAILABLE FOR PROJECT PROM AND HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION LOCK IN EVENTS
High Schools in Southeast Missouri that will be putting on safety events for students this spring have an opportunity to save some money.
The Southeast Coalition for Roadway Safety is offering grant funding to local schools that hold student lock-in events for Project Prom or High School graduation.
Events must include a presentation or activity educating students on highway safety issues within their night’s agenda. Qualifying schools will receive $200 each to assist with event expenses such as location rental, food, or entertainment.
The Southeast Coalition will be accepting grant applications through February 18th.
Officials say that funding is available for up to 40 local schools and if you would like more information, contact Southeast Coalition Coordinator Ashley Metelski at 573-472-5885.
