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RIVER RADIO NEWS 080613

RIVER RADIO NEWS 080613

NAMES RELEASED OF TWO KILLED BY TRAIN

The names of two people killed by a train over the weekend in Paragould have been released.

26 year old, Tiffany Ann Clements and 20 year old Joseph Lee Morgan, both of Paragould, were killed after being struck by a train early Saturday morning, according to authorities.

SIKESTON STANDOFF ENDS WITH NO INJURIES

No one was injured in a police standoff Monday afternoon in Sikeston.

According to KFVS, authorities with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety and tactical squad had a house surrounded yesterday that had a man holed up inside, reportedly with a weapon.

The man eventually surrendered and is not currently facing charges; however he may have to be evaluated for his well being. The name of the man has not yet been released.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS SHERIFF WARNS BUSINESSES TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR COUNTERFEIT MONEY

A Northeast Arkansas Sheriff is warning businesses to be on the lookout for counterfeit money.

Izard County Sheriff Tate Lawrence says that a counterfeit $5 bill was passed at a business in Melbourne on August 2nd. Lawrence says that it is somewhat unusual for small bills to be counterfeited, however everyone should still be on the lookout.

DEXTER MAN ARRESTED ON CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CHARGE

A Dexter man was arrested last week after a fire started at his residence.

On Thursday, authorities reportedly found Terry W. Wilkerson pouring a substance down a kitchen sink that then ignited.

Authorities evacuated a three year child from the home, who was found sleeping in a bedroom. According to Missouri Case Net, Wilkerson was arrested and is facing a felony controlled substance charge along with first degree endangering the welfare of a child.

CAPE GIRARDEAU HOSTING ELECTRIC CAR CONVENTION

A convention designed to help people convert cars to run on electricity is scheduled for this week in Cape Girardeau.

About 150 people are expected to attend the Electric Vehicle Conversion Convention, which runs through Sunday. Organizers say educational sessions and hands-on work will be held at the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport. The Southeast Missourian reports nearly 45 electric vehicles will be on display for the public.

The convention also will offer electric-vehicle drag races and autocross Friday afternoon.

LISTENING POST MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TOMORROW IN ELLINGTON

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Ellington tomorrow to speak with members of the community.

The stop is a part of the Senator’s Listening Post program, which is intended for Missourians to share their questions and concerns during meetings with members of Senator Blunt's staff.

The meeting will be held from 10 to 11 am Wednesday at the Ellington City Hall.

CRAIGHEAD COUNTY TO GET JUST UNDER $1 MILLION GRANT

Craighead County has been chosen for almost one million dollars in grant money.

The money, which totals around $958,000 dollars, is from a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration grant. The grant money will reportedly go to expanding the Craighead County Juvenile Drug Court.

SOME MEDICAID INFORMATION SENT TO WRONG RECIPIENTS

Missouri officials say more than 1,300 Medicaid participants had some of their personal information mailed to incorrect addresses.

The Department of Social Services said Monday a software programming error led to the wrong mailings by a contractor called Infocrossing Inc.

The agency says the error was discovered June 6th and affected correspondence sent to 1,357 managed care participants from October 16th, 2011, through June 7th of this year.

The department says no personal medical or financial information was released. But it says the incorrect mailings could have included participants' names, birth dates, MO HealthNet identification numbers, phone numbers and the last four digits of their Social Security numbers.

Officials say there's no reason to believe any identity theft occurred, but Infocrossing is offering free credit monitoring services to those affected.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 080513

 RIVER RADIO NEWS 080513

SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK CLAIMS LIFE OF EAST PRAIRIE TEEN

An East Prairie teenager is dead following a single vehicle wreck in New Madrid County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 16 year old Nolan Smith’s vehicle overturned Saturday night after he lost control and ran off of Missouri Highway 80 near Matthews.

Smith was later pronounced dead a Cape Girardeau Hospital.

TRAIN REPORTEDLY STRIKES TWO PEDESTRIANS IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Paragould authorities are investigating the deaths of two people over the weekend.

According to the Paragould Police Department, officers were dispatched Saturday morning after a report of a train striking two pedestrians. At the scene officers found two subjects who were both deceased.

Names of the two people killed were not released and the incident is under investigation.

TWO KILLED IN CARTER COUNTY ATV WRECK

Two people are dead following an ATV wreck Friday night in Carter County.

35 year old Nathan Banks, of Hayti, was driving an ATV on County Road 127 when he reportedly ran off the road and overturned. Banks’ passenger, 35 year old Kelly McCulloch, of Steele, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Banks was flown to a Springfield Hospital where he died Saturday afternoon.

ONE KILLED, ANOTHER INJURED IN HEAD ON COLLISION

Authorities say one person is dead in connection to a head on collision in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 33 year old Jason M. Ring, of Paragould, was killed after he reportedly crossed the center line of Barnhill Road in Paragould Friday night and hit another vehicle head on.

The driver of the second vehicle, 53 year old Carol J. Boler, also of Paragould, was taken to a Memphis Hospital with undisclosed injuries.

DONIPHAN MAN SENTENCED FOR 2009 SHOOTING DEATH

A Doniphan man is facing 50 years in prison for the 2009 shooting death of William R. Hamilton.

31 year old Thomas D. Cates was sentenced to 50 years in prison Friday, according to the Daily American Republic. The sentencing comes after Cates guilty plea in April to charges of second degree murder and armed criminal action.

Cates had allegedly shot and killed Hamilton in August of 2009.

MAN HITS TREE AFTER REPORTEDLY ATTEMPTING TO FLEE FROM LAW ENFORCEMENT

A Charleston man has serious injuries following a wreck Saturday morning, after he allegedly attempted to flee from authorities.

According to the Highway Patrol, 29 year old Jitwuan D. McCain was attempting to flee from a traffic stop, when he lost control of his vehicle and hit a tree. The wreck occurred in Scott County.

McCain is facing multiple charges including fleeing and driving while intoxicated.

TWO ARRESTED AND $12,000 OF STOLEN EQUIPMENT RECOVERED

Two Poplar Bluff men are facing a felony stealing charge after authorities in Butler County recovered over $12,000 dollars of stolen equipment.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, the tools were reported stolen from a construction site on July 31st.

29 year old Riley Doles and 47 year old Ricardo Botero, were taken into custody Friday in connection to the case. Police had earlier responded to Doles’ residence where they reportedly recovered most of the missing tools.

AUTHORITIES TAKE 23 INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO GANG ROUNDUP

Sikeston authorities have taken 23 people into custody in connection to a gang roundup.

The arrests were a part of “Operation Safe Streets” and were reportedly focused on members of the “Brick Squad Monopoly.” The arrests were made Friday and authorities are still seeking seven people.

TWO POPLAR BLUFF STREETS TO BE CLOSED TODAY FOR CONCRETE REPLACEMENT

Highway crews will be in Poplar Bluff today for concrete replacements on two streets.

Both Cherry and 9th streets will be closed today for the repairs. Cherry Street will be closed at the intersection of Cherry and Business 67, while 9th Street will be closed at the intersection of 9th Street and Business 60.

ROAD WORK THIS WEEK IN CARTER COUNTY

Route P in Carter County will be reduced to one lane this week while Missouri Department of Transportation crews partially overlay the roadway.

The section of Route P to be reduced will begin at US 60 and continue to the end of state maintenance.

Weather permitting; work will take place today through Thursday, from 7 am to 4:30 pm daily.

REVENUES DOWN IN MISSOURI

Missouri has started its 2014 fiscal year with a dip in revenues compared to last year.

Figures reported Friday by the state Office of Administration show that state revenues in July were 4.8 percent below last July. Budget Director Linda Luebbering on Friday said the decline occurred because last year's figure was boosted by Missouri's share of a national mortgage settlement.

The 2014 budget started July 1st and is based on a growth in revenues of 3.1 percent. Sales tax collections were up 4 percent and corporate income taxes were are up 10.4 percent. Individual income taxes increased 0.2 percent.

ARKANSAS STARTS FISCAL YEAR WITH HIGHER REVENUES

The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration says the state started off its fiscal year above forecast by nearly 2 percent.

The agency said Friday that net available revenue for July totaled $410.2 million - or 1.9 percent above forecast. The total is $6.4 million, or 1.6 percent, above last year's numbers.

Arkansas' fiscal year began July 1st.

The agency says July saw mixed results, with a drop in individual income tax but an increase in corporate income tax and sales tax. The agency says the timing of payday can cause some monthly swings in the state's financial results.

River Radio News 080213

RIVER RADIO NEWS 080213

MURDER CHARGES FILED IN CONNECTION TO DEATH OF CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN

A Bonne Terre man is facing murder charges out of St. Francois County.

49 year old Melvin Scherrer has been charged with first degree murder and abandoning a corpse, along with charges. Scherrer is accused of murdering Samuel Francis, of Cape Girardeau.

Francis’s remains were discovered recently in a septic tank near Bonne Terre.

PERSON ARRESTED FOLLOWING PARAGOULD ROBBERY

One person has been taken into custody following a reported bank robbery in Paragould.

According to authorities, the suspect was arrested after a report was made of a robbery at First National Bank Thursday afternoon. The name of the suspect has not yet been released.

TWO ARRESTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES

Two teenagers were arrested in Cape Girardeau County early Thursday morning on drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 19 year olds James R. Ross of Cape Girardeau and Mackenzie A. Dunning of Jackson were each arrested shortly before 1 am Thursday on a charge of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

Dunning is facing an additional charge of possession of marijuana, while Ross has also been charged with possession of drug paraphernalia.

MAN REPORTEDLY POSED AS CRAIGHEAD COUNTY DEPUTY

An investigation is ongoing in Northeast Arkansas after authorities received a report about a man posing as a sheriff’s deputy.

The man entered the home of a Jonesboro woman, while in possession of a badge and a gun. The man was with the woman’s aunt.

When questioned, the man told the woman his name was Steven Craig, a Craighead County Deputy Sheriff. He looked around a couple rooms before leaving with the woman’s aunt.

According to KAIT, the woman contacted authorities, who said the man was an imposter.

CORNING AIRPORT CHOSEN FOR FAA GRANT

Six rural airports in Arkansas will split $1.2 million in grants from the Federal Aviation Administration to make improvements.

The Arkansas Congressional delegation made the announcement Thursday.

The airports receiving the funds include the Corning Municipal Airport and the Marked Tree Municipal Airport.

All six airports will receive between $153,000 and $331,000 for a variety of projects. The projects include rehabilitating a taxiway, paving and lighting a taxiway and installing a wildlife perimeter fence.

HIGHWAY PATROL TO HOLD COMMUNITY ALLIANCE PROGRAM

The Missouri State Highway Patrol will be holding a Community Alliance Program starting in September.

The program will be held at the Troop E headquarter in Poplar Bluff, beginning Monday, September 23rd. The program is designed to allow the public to learn more about the Patrol’s purpose and role within the law enforcement community.

Classes will meet on six consecutive Monday evenings, from 6:30
to 9:00 pm. Applications will be accepted through September 13th. Anyone interested in the program can contact Corporal Clark Parrott at 573-840-9500, extension 3532.

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HOSTING AUCTION THIS WEEKEND

The Missouri Department of Transportation will be hosting an auction this weekend.

The auction will be held Saturday at the Southeast District Office in Sikeston beginning at 10 am.

Various items will be available, including vehicles, tools, equipment, and office equipment. Items must be paid for with cash or check.

STATE SALES TAX HOLIDAY BEGINS TODAY

The Missouri Back to School sales tax holiday begins today.

If you make a qualified purchase during the holiday, from August 2nd through August 4th, you will not have to pay Missouri’s sales tax. In general, qualified items include clothing less than $100, school supplies not exceeding a total of $50 per purchase, and all computers and computer accessories less than $3,500.

City and County governments can also choose to suspend their sales taxes for the weekend.

MISSOURI LOTTERY ALLOWING SELF BANNING

The Missouri Lottery is allowing people who have a gambling problem to voluntarily ban themselves for life.

People who participate will be prohibited from claiming winnings of $600 or more.

Missouri Lottery Executive Director May Scheve Reardon says the $600 figure was chosen because lottery winnings of that amount or more are claimed at one of the lottery's regional offices. She says enforcement at 5,000 retail locations would be impossible.

To enact a self-ban, people will sign, notarize and submit an agreement to the Missouri Lottery. Officials will keep a database to be checked when someone comes to claim a prize. Those who have banned themselves will be denied payment.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 080113

RIVER RADIO NEWS 080113

WAPPAPELLO MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO INVOLUNTARY MANSLAUGHTER

A Wappapello man entered a guilty plea earlier this week on an involuntary manslaughter charge.

On Tuesday, Arthur E. Strahorn pleaded guilty to first degree involuntary manslaughter, according to Missouri Case Net.
Strahorn was originally charged with second degree murder in April of 2011 following the shooting death of Thomas F. Remmert.

Strahorn was given a sentence of seven years incarceration with a suspended execution of sentence. Strahorn was also placed on five years supervised probation.

MAN FACING MURDER CHARGE FOLLOWING DEATH OF ONE MONTH OLD BABY

A Northeast Arkansas man is facing murder charges following the death of his one month old baby.

According to KAIT, Sidney Campbell has been charged with first degree murder. The child reportedly died of blunt force trauma to the head.

The mother of the child, Jennifer Campbell is facing a charge of hindering apprehension.

JONESBORO WOMAN FACING THEFT CHARGE

A Jonesboro woman is facing theft charges, after being accused of stealing from a non profit organization.

According to authorities, 44 year old Lora L. Tyler allegedly stole over $80,000 from Abilities Unlimited, where she had reportedly worked as an accountant.

KENNETT POLICE DEPARTMENT HOSTING A MEET THE POLICE EVENT

The Kennett Police Department is inviting citizens to an event this weekend.

The Meet the Police event will be held Saturday at Jones Park. There will be live music, free food and drinks, and family friendly fun.

The event is scheduled for 1 to 4 pm.

TWO LOCAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS AWARDED $2,500

Two area elementary schools have been chosen to receive $2,500 from Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Eugene Field and Lake Road Elementary Schools will each get the money for playground equipment and to subsidize other classroom activities.

POPLAR BLUFF HOSTING LISTENING POST MEETING TODAY

United States Senator Roy Blunt’s staff will host a Listening Post Meeting today from 9:30 am to 10:30 am at the Mark Twain National Forest Service Office in Poplar Bluff.

Listening Posts are intended for Missourians to share their questions and concerns during meetings with members of Senator Blunt's staff.

Senator Blunt’s Jefferson City office also extends one-on-one service to all Missourians who have an issue with a federal agency or need additional assistance. To reach the Senator’s Office of Constituent Services, call (573) 634-2488.

SEMO INCLUDED IN RANKING OF MOST AFFORDABLE ONLINE VALUES

A website is listing Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau among the nation's most affordable online values.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org ranks Southeast 16th among 54 colleges across the country with distance learning options. The website is a resource for college affordability and financial aid information.

Southeast Missouri State has more than 700 students pursuing degrees completely online.

MODOT MEET AND GREET TODAY AT THE POPLAR BLUFF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The new director of the Missouri Department of Transportation is scheduled to be in Poplar Bluff today.

David Nichols will be a part of a meet and greet event held at the Greater Poplar Bluff area Chamber of Commerce. The event will be held from 11 am until noon today in the Chamber’s Community Room.

SIGNATURES TO START BEING COLLECTED FOR MOTORCYCLE INITIATIVE

Supporters of a Missouri initiative to restrict passengers on motorcycles can begin collecting signatures to get the proposal on the 2014 ballot.

Proponents have until next May to collect enough signatures to get the proposal before voters. The proposal would require Missouri motorcycle operators to be at least 21 and complete a rider-safety class before they could carry passengers.

The restrictions would not apply to those who have had had a motorcycle license for the previous two years and were born in 1984 or earlier.

MOTORISTS WARNED TO WATCH FOR PAVEMENT PROBLEMS DUE TO HEAT

With temperatures getting back up to around 90 today, the Missouri Department of Transportation is warning motorists to be on the lookout for pavement blow ups.

A blowup can occur when the roadway surface expands at a crack or joint and causes it to buckle or warp. Officials are asking motorists to report blowups so that repairs can be done.

Motorists can call MoDOT’s toll-free customer service center at 1-888-ASK-MODOT to report pavement blow-ups.

MISSOURI POWER COMPANY ORDERED TO REFUND OVER $26 MILLION

State regulators have determined that Ameren Missouri owes its electric customers slightly more than $26 million for failing to include some revenue in its calculations.

The Missouri Public Service Commission on Wednesday approved an order for the St. Louis-based company to refund the money to customers.

But Ameren Missouri won't be sending out checks. Instead, the $26.3 million will be applied by adjusting a fuel charge that customers otherwise would pay.

The PSC found that Ameren Missouri improperly excluded revenues from certain power sales agreements when calculating rates charged under its fuel adjustment clause.

MIDWEST, PLAINS ECONOMIC INDEX DECLINES FROM JUNE

Conductors of a monthly survey of business leaders in nine Midwest and Plains states say the region's economy will grow in the coming months, despite a fourth month of decline in the survey's overall index.

The overall economic index for the region declined to 53.5 in July from June's 55.6, but any score above 50 suggests growth.

Creighton University economist Ernie Goss oversees the survey. He says the regional economy will continue to add jobs, but at a slow pace.

The survey of business leaders and supply managers uses a collection of indexes ranging from zero to 100. Survey organizers say any score above 50 suggests growth, while a score below that suggests decline.

The survey covers Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma and South Dakota.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 073113

POPLAR BLUFF HOSPITAL COULD SOON BE UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

The Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center could soon be under new ownership as a part of an almost $4 billion deal.

According to the Associated Press, Community Health Systems, out of Franklin, Tennessee, is planning on buying pharmacy-no-rx.net Health Management Associates Incorporated in a deal for about $3.9 billion, or $7.6 billion counting assumed debt.

Health Management Associates has 71 hospital locations, including the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center and the Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center in Kennett.

The report states that the deal has been approved by board members of both companies, but still needs to be approved by stockholders of Healthcare Management Associates, along with federal regulators.

ESCAPED INMATE KILLED IN CAR CRASH

A Jackson County, Arkansas jail escapee has been killed during a police pursuit in Missouri.

Jackson County Sheriff David Lucas says Steven Mitchell died Tuesday afternoon after crashing the vehicle he was driving while trying to elude police in Mountain View, Missouri.

Lucas says police stopped a vehicle driven by Mitchell's wife about noon Tuesday for speeding and when she was removed from the car, Mitchell got behind the wheel and drove away. He was spotted still driving the vehicle about three hours later and crashed while again trying to elude officers.

Lucas says Mitchell's wife, Jessica Mitchell, is being held for helping in the escape.

FORMER NEW MADRID COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT OFFICE MANAGER ARRESTED

A former employee of the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department has been recently taken into custody.

According to a post on the Sheriff’s Department’s Facebook Page, Deborah L. Cowan has been arrested on the charge of theft/stealing. The value of the property or service was reportedly over $25,000.

Cowan had been an office manager for the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department for 20 years. She has a court appearance scheduled for August 8th.

PERSON SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO STABBING

Jonesboro authorities are searching for a suspect following a stabbing last night.

KAIT reports that the victim suffered serious injuries after being stabbed in the abdomen. Names have not released for the victim or the suspect.

MAN ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON METH CHARGE

Authorities arrested a Clubb man last night in Wayne County on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 44 year old Mark A. Tumbas was arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and possession of methamphetamine paraphernalia.

PAIR ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO REPORTED THEFT

Two Southeast Missouri residents are awaiting extradition to Arkansas in connection to an alleged theft.

According to the Baxter County Sheriff’s Office, 38 year old Kenneth Dale Grady, of Hayti, and 38 year old Faith Hope Babcock, of Caruthersville, were arrested Tuesday morning in Missouri on outstanding warrants for felony theft of property.

The felony arrest warrants were issued after the Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation into a theft that was reported on July 20th. The items stolen were valued collectively at approximately $20,000.

POSSIBLE PHONE SCAM REPORTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU

Cape Girardeau Police are warning of a possible phone scam involving a caller who says they are a representative of Medicare.

The caller states that he needs the person’s social security number and bank account to verify account information. It has been reported that the subject will hang up when he is questioned about the nature of the call or if it is asked to speak to someone else.

Patrolman Darin Hickey says that everyone needs to remember to be diligent and cautious when giving out personal information over the phone and to make sure you know who you are talking to and make every attempt to verify that information.

LISTENING POST TOUR TO MAKE STOP IN DEXTER

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be stopping by Dexter tomorrow to hold a listening post meeting.

Listening Posts are intended for Missourians to share their questions and concerns with members of Senator Blunt's staff.

The staff members will be available at the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission from 1:30 to 2:30 pm on Thursday.

LISTENING POST MEETING TOMORROW IN SIKESTON

Sikeston will be hosting a listening post meeting tomorrow featuring staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt.

The meeting will be held from 3:30 to 4:30 pm Thursday at Cole Insurance in Sikeston.

Listening Posts are intended for Missourians to share their questions and concerns during meetings with members of Senator Blunt's staff.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be closing a Stoddard County road today to replace a culvert pipe.

Route CC in Stoddard County will be closed today, between Route A and County Road 754.

Work will take place from 9 am to 3 pm, weather permitting.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 073113

RIVER RADIO NEWS 073113

POPLAR BLUFF HOSPITAL COULD SOON BE UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

The Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center could soon be under new ownership as a part of an almost $4 billion deal.

According to the Associated Press, Community Health Systems, out of Franklin, Tennessee, is planning on buying Health Management Associates Incorporated in a deal for about $3.9 billion, or $7.6 billion counting assumed debt.

Health Management Associates has 71 hospital locations, including the Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center and the Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center in Kennett.

The report states that the deal has been approved by board members of both companies, but still needs to be approved by stockholders of Healthcare Management Associates, along with federal regulators.

ESCAPED INMATE KILLED IN CAR CRASH

A Jackson County, Arkansas jail escapee has been killed during a police pursuit in Missouri.

Jackson County Sheriff David Lucas says Steven Mitchell died Tuesday afternoon after crashing the vehicle he was driving while trying to elude police in Mountain View, Missouri.

Lucas says police stopped a vehicle driven by Mitchell's wife about noon Tuesday for speeding and when she was removed from the car, Mitchell got behind the wheel and drove away. He was spotted still driving the vehicle about three hours later and crashed while again trying to elude officers.

Lucas says Mitchell's wife, Jessica Mitchell, is being held for helping in the escape.

FORMER NEW MADRID COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT OFFICE MANAGER ARRESTED

A former employee of the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department has been recently taken into custody.

According to a post on the Sheriff’s Department’s Facebook Page, Deborah L. Cowan has been arrested on the charge of theft/stealing. The value of the property or service was reportedly over $25,000.

Cowan had been an office manager for the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department for 20 years. She has a court appearance scheduled for August 8th.

PERSON SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO STABBING

Jonesboro authorities are searching for a suspect following a stabbing last night.

KAIT reports that the victim suffered serious injuries after being stabbed in the abdomen. Names have not released for the victim or the suspect.

MAN ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON METH CHARGE

Authorities arrested a Clubb man last night in Wayne County on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 44 year old Mark A. Tumbas was arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and possession of methamphetamine paraphernalia.

PAIR ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO REPORTED THEFT

Two Southeast Missouri residents are awaiting extradition to Arkansas in connection to an alleged theft.

According to the Baxter County Sheriff’s Office, 38 year old Kenneth Dale Grady, of Hayti, and 38 year old Faith Hope Babcock, of Caruthersville, were arrested Tuesday morning in Missouri on outstanding warrants for felony theft of property.

The felony arrest warrants were issued after the Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation into a theft that was reported on July 20th. The items stolen were valued collectively at approximately $20,000.

POSSIBLE PHONE SCAM REPORTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU

Cape Girardeau Police are warning of a possible phone scam involving a caller who says they are a representative of Medicare.

The caller states that he needs the person’s social security number and bank account to verify account information. It has been reported that the subject will hang up when he is questioned about the nature of the call or if it is asked to speak to someone else.

Patrolman Darin Hickey says that everyone needs to remember to be diligent and cautious when giving out personal information over the phone and to make sure you know who you are talking to and make every attempt to verify that information.

LISTENING POST TOUR TO MAKE STOP IN DEXTER

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be stopping by Dexter tomorrow to hold a listening post meeting.

Listening Posts are intended for Missourians to share their questions and concerns with members of Senator Blunt's staff.

The staff members will be available at the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission from 1:30 to 2:30 pm on Thursday.

LISTENING POST MEETING TOMORROW IN SIKESTON

Sikeston will be hosting a listening post meeting tomorrow featuring staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt.

The meeting will be held from 3:30 to 4:30 pm Thursday at Cole Insurance in Sikeston.

Listening Posts are intended for Missourians to share their questions and concerns during meetings with members of Senator Blunt's staff.

STODDARD COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED TODAY

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be closing a Stoddard County road today to replace a culvert pipe.

Route CC in Stoddard County will be closed today, between Route A and County Road 754.

Work will take place from 9 am to 3 pm, weather permitting.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 073013

RIVER RADIO NEWS 073013

EX-CARTER COUNTY COLLECTOR ACCUSED OF THEFT

A former southeast Missouri county collector is facing felony charges of stealing.

Carter County prosecutor Rocky Kingree on Tuesday filed stealing charges against 39 year old Jennifer Clark-Williams, of Van Buren. She resigned as Carter County collector in October after authorities discovered that more than $5,000 was missing from county coffers.

Kingree says that when he took office in 2011 he found a 2009 state audit showing the missing money. He asked the Missouri State Highway Patrol to investigate.

Clark-Williams did not yet have a listed attorney.

TWO ESCAPE FROM NORTHEAST ARKANSAS DETENTION CENTER, ONE BACK IN CUSTODY

Authorities are searching for an inmate who went missing from a northeast Arkansas jail.

KAIT reports that 39 year old Steven Mitchell and 22 year old Steven William Reed were discovered missing from the Jackson County Detention Center early on Monday morning. Reed has since been found and taken back into custody.

According to the report, Mitchell should be considered dangerous and is awaiting trial for first degree battery.

CAPE GIRARDEAU POLICE LOOKING FOR FLAG THIEF

Authorities in Cape Girardeau are looking for a man who is accused of stealing an American Flag from an area residence.

According to Patrolman Darin Hickey, the theft occurred at around 1:30 am on Tuesday, July 16th from a residence near North Lorimer and Bellvue.

Anyone who has information about the incident is asked to contact the Cape Girardeau Police Department.

A picture of the alleged suspect is available on our Facebook page.

OVER 30 ARRESTED AS PART OF WEEKEND MARINE SATURATION

Over 30 people were arrested Saturday in connection to a Marine Operations Saturation on Black River in Reynolds County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 of the arrests were for misdemeanor drugs. Four were misdemeanor criminal arrests, and there was one felony drug arrest.

In addition, there were 19 summonses issued for minor in possession.

MEDICAID REFORM GROUP TO HOLD HEARING TOMORROW IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

A group focusing on Medicaid reform is planning a meeting in Kennett tomorrow.

The Citizens and Legislators Working Group on Medicaid Eligibility and Reform will hold its fourth in a series of public hearings tomorrow at 9 am at the Bootheel Area Independent Living Services Center in Kennett.

Missouri Representative Noel Torpey, who chairs the working group, and Representative Kent Hampton, who serves as vice chair, say the group’s goal is to bring together private citizens from all walks of life to engage in a productive discussion meant to generate ideas to transform Missouri’s Medicaid system into one that capably serves the state’s most vulnerable citizens

The Bootheel Area Independent Living Services Center is located at 719 Teaco Road in Kennett.

REGISTRATION EVENT FOR THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO BE HELD AT CLEARWATER HIGH SCHOOL

The Three Rivers College Center at Piedmont will be holding a registration event next week to help area residents get registered for classes.

The event will be held at Clearwater High School from 4 to 6 pm on Thursday, August 8th. Prospective students attending the event can register for classes offered at any of the college’s locations, as well as those offered at the Piedmont site, or online.

Fall classes begin on August 19th.

$45 MILLION TO BE INVESTED IN NEW MADRID PLANT

Almost 30 new jobs could be on the way to New Madrid as a part of the expansion of an area smelter.

Governor Jay Nixon announced last week that the expansion is due to a $45 million capital investment by Noranda Aluminum Holding Corporation. The project will significantly expand the footprint of the smelter in New Madrid and is expected to create 29 new jobs.

PARAMOUNT APPAREL TO EXPAND TO ELLINGTON

A job fair is coming up today for possible positions at a new facility in Ellington.

According to the Ellington Chamber of Commerce, Paramount Apparel recently announced that Ellington was chosen as the site for a new manufacturing facility.

The company has leased a building located near the intersection of Highway 21 and Y Highway in Ellington for the expansion.

A job fair will be held today at the location for the purpose of accepting applications, interviewing prospective employees and potentially offering jobs in anticipation of an August 12th startup date. The job fair will run from 4 to 7 pm.

OLD TIME SCHOOL DAY TOMORROW AT ALLEY SPRING

Ozark National Scenic Riverways is hosting a blast to the past for area students tomorrow.

A free Old Time School Day is being held tomorrow 9:30 am until noon at the Alley Spring pavilion. The event will include traditional daily school activities, spelling bees, chalk board games, and other old time games, such as stilt walking, sack races and barrel ring rolling.

To register, or for additional information, call the Alley Spring Visitor Center at 573-226-3945 and ask for Ranger Sarah Morris.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY

Highway 143 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane today while Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of road to be reduced is located between Sam A. Baker Park and the Des Arc City Limits.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7 am to 5 pm.

HIGHWAY 25 SET TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK IN STODDARD COUNTY

Highway 25 in Stoddard County is scheduled to be reduced to one lane this week so crews can mill the roadway.

The project is scheduled to be done from 5:30 am to 5 pm daily through Thursday.

GOVERNOR TELLS LEGISLATORS TO NOT ENDANGER MISSOURI’S CREDIT RATING

Governor Jay Nixon is pointing to Missouri's credit rating in defending his veto of tax cutting legislation.

Nixon sent lawmakers a letter Monday that said enacting the tax cuts could jeopardize Missouri's AAA-credit rating. Nixon says credit rating agencies noted the legislation in reports this month.

The legislation would cut tax rates for individuals and corporations and create a new deduction for business income reported on individual tax returns. When fully phased in, it has the potential to reduce state tax revenues by hundreds of millions of dollars.

However, some of the tax cuts depend upon continued growth in state revenues.

SENATE PANEL REVIEWS MISSOURI CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT NEEDS

A report says that state-owned buildings in Missouri have about 20,000 things that need repairs.

The figures from the Office of Administration were reviewed Monday by an interim state Senate committee studying the state's construction needs.

The report says completing all the repairs would cost about $662 million.

As part of Monday's meeting, the Senate committee toured the headquarters of the Department of Natural Resources and the former Missouri State Penitentiary, both in Jefferson City.

The prison closed in 2004. A new federal courthouse sits on part of the land, and tours take visitors through some of the remaining buildings at the old prison.

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 RIVER RADIO NEWS 072913

REMAINS FOUND IN SEPTIC TANK IDENTIFIED AS MISSING CAPE MAN

Human remains found last week in a St. Francois County septic tank have been identified as those of a Cape Girardeau man.

Authorities say the remains of 38 year old Sam Francis, of Cape Girardeau, were discovered Thursday in the tank of an unoccupied property and that the case is being treated as a homicide. A cause of death has not yet been determined.

Francis had been missing since December 2012.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS WOMAN DIES IN ATV CRASH

A northeast Arkansas woman has been fatally injured in a weekend ATV crash.

The Arkansas State Police report that 28 year old Sara Michelle Croom, of Cave City, Arkansas was driving the ATV west on Highway 58 Saturday night, when she lost control and overturned into a ditch.

Investigators say three other people were on the ATV at the time of the crash.

PARAGOULD MAN DROWNS IN CURRENT RIVER

A Paragould man has drown after a weekend canoeing accident on Current River.

According to authorities, 57 year old Stephen T. Hill was canoeing with another person yesterday morning, when they hit a root wad and overturned. The second person was able to swim to shore.

The accident happened about five miles north of Doniphan.

SCOTT CITY WOMAN ARRESTED AFTER POLICE CHASE INTO ILLINOIS

A Scott City woman has been arrested after leading police on a chase from Missouri into Illinois that resulted in two car crashes.

According to authorities, officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop near Sikeston, when the driver of the vehicle, 47 year old Sherry Jane Nolan fled. They say Nolan led officers on a chase on Interstate 57 into Illinois. During the pursuit, Nolan’s vehicle struck another vehicle, but continued to flee. She then struck another vehicle, lost control and spun into the interstate median.

Nolan has been charged with aggravated DUI and possession of marijuana. Other charges are pending from several counties in both Missouri and Illinois.

TWO AREA RESIDENTS ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF METH PRECURSORS

Two Southeast Missouri residents face drug charges after their arrest by the Missouri State Highway Patrol Saturday.

49 year old Jeffrey S. Pruitt, of Poplar Bluff, and 33 year old Stacy J. Coffee, of Bloomfield, were taken into custody Saturday afternoon in Stoddard County.

According to a Patrol arrest report, Pruitt faces charges of possession of methamphetamine precursors, possession of drug paraphernalia and additional traffic charges.

Coffee has been charged with possession of methamphetamine precursors, unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana.

THREE ARRESTED IN PEMISCOT COUNTY FOR DRUG TRAFFICKING

Three out of state residents have been taken into custody on drug charges in Pemiscot County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Jessy D. Suttle and 30 year old Aaron M. Smith, both of Evansville, Indiana and 30 year old Richard W. Robb, of Wesley Chapel, Florida were arrested Friday night, shortly before midnight. Each has been charged with felony drug trafficking.

WOMAN SUES OVER HANDCUFFED SON’S DEATH IN JONESBORO

The mother of a young man who police say fatally shot himself while handcuffed in the back of a patrol car has filed a wrongful death lawsuit.

Lawyers for Chavis Carter's mother, Teresa Rudd, filed the lawsuit on Friday in federal court in Jonesboro.

The lawsuit seeks damages for medical expenses and loss of life. It comes a year after Carter's death and names the city of Jonesboro, its police chief and two officers as defendants.

Police in Jonesboro have faced criticism since they said officers searched Carter twice but didn't find a gun before they noticed him slumped over and bleeding in a patrol car on July 28, 2012.

An autopsy said Carter shot himself in the head while he was under the influence of meth.

NEW MADRID COUNTY DRIVERS MAY SEE DELAYS DUE TO ROAD REPAIR PROJECTS

Drivers in New Madrid County may see delays this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews work on two separate repair projects.

The first affected section of roadway is Route 162, between Route B south and Route B. Crews will be closing the road to replace a pipe under the road today and tomorrow, from 7:30 am to 5 pm each day.

In addition, Route 62 will be reduced to one lane between Route 153 and County Road 535, so crews can perform shoulder repairs. Work is scheduled to be performed today and tomorrow, from 7 am to 4 pm each day.

MISSOURI TREASURER WARNS OF UNCLAIMED PROPERTY SCAM

Missouri Treasurer Clint Zweifel is warning of a scam email about unclaimed property.

The state treasurer says the email claims recipients are owed millions of dollars through the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators. The email states an audit found the property. It seeks the recipient's name, email address and phone number.

Zweifel says his office does not charge to return unclaimed property and that anyone with questions about the legitimacy of an email should contact his office. He urged Missourians to forward suspicious emails to his office.

The National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators is real - but it does not notify individuals of unclaimed property.

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RIVER RADIO NEWS 072613

WAYNE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT EMPLOYEE ARRESTED FOR DEALING SYNTHETIC DRUGS

An employee of the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department has been arrested after it was discovered she was selling synthetic drugs.

According to Wayne County Sheriff Dean Finch, Krista McAllister had been working as a dispatcher with the department for about two months.

Finch says an investigation led officers to search the home McAllister shared with her roommate, Tonya McKinney. During the search, investigators found dozens of baggies of synthetic marijuana. McAllister and McKinney were both arrested.

The investigation also revealed that McAllister used information she obtained through her job as dispatcher to warn another synthetic drug dealer that deputies were headed to his house for a bust. Sheriff Finch says they were able to arrest the third dealer, despite her attempt to warn him.

MAN IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO THREE YEAR OLD’S SUSPICIOUS INJURIES

A Sikeston man has been arrested in connection to the suspicious injuries of a three year old child.

24 year old Clinton David Burton was taken into custody on charges of felony abuse or neglect of a child and misdemeanor possession of up to 35 grams of marijuana.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, authorities were initially requested to the St Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau in reference to a suspicious injury to the arm of a three year old child. Walter did not release what the injury was.

ARMED ROBBERY REPORTED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

An investigation has been started in Dunklin County into a reported armed robbery.

Authorities say two black males allegedly entered a rural Kennett home and took money from the residents early Thursday morning. A victim told authorities that one of the men had a gun.

The incident occurred at around 1 am Thursday morning.

MAN SENTENCED IN SHOOTING CASE

A Marble Hill man has been sentenced to four years in prison in connection to a shooting in Bollinger County.

Robert Keller Morgan received the sentence on a charge of resisting or interfering with a felony arrest according to the Banner Press. The charge was in connection to the shooting of Robert’s wife, Nicole Morgan in March. Nicole survived the incident.

Robert Morgan’s father, Robert Edward Morgan is set to be sentenced on assault charges in connection to the case on August 1st.

LISTENING POST MEETING TO BE HELD NEXT WEEK IN IRONTON

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Ironton next week to talk with area citizens.

The meeting is a part of the Senator’s Listening Posts, which are intended for Missourians to share their questions and concerns with members of Senator Blunt's staff.

The Listening Post will be held at the Iron County Courthouse from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm on Tuesday, July 30th.

MATERIALS FROM MODOT MEETING AVAILABLE ONLINE

Officials from the Missouri Department of Transportation have posted materials online from the meeting held in Poplar Bluff on Tuesday.

The briefing discussed intersection improvements at Route PP and Township Line Road. The meeting also covered safety improvements to the Highway 67 crossover at Township Line Road.

An online meeting, including the meeting handout and an opportunity to comment, is available online at MoDOT.org.

Link: http://www.modot.org/southeast/news_and_information/public_meetings/RoutePPandTownship_PB_July2013.htm

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOLD OPEN HOUSE EVENTS

Three Rivers College will be showcasing itself to area communities in a series of open house events next month.

The Three Rivers Centers in Kennett, Malden, and Dexter will be holding Open Houses on Tuesday, August 6th from 2 to 6 pm. The main campus in Poplar Bluff will follow with its own Open House on Thursday, August 8th, also from 2 to 6 pm.

All open house events will give prospective students the opportunity to apply for admission at Three Rivers, receive help with financial aid applications, and learn about the process of registering for classes.

SEMO CHOSEN TO PARTICIPATE IN MISSOURI COMPLETION ACADEMY

Southeast Missouri State University is participating in an effort to boost the rate of students completing degrees.

The Cape Girardeau school says it has been picked to participate in the Missouri Completion Academy. Participants at the 2-day event this September will get help with things like reducing the length of time to complete a degree and improving remedial education.

Southeast Missouri State University and other schools participating in the program will complete a written action plan. They'll also get a chance to discuss progress implementing their action plans.

ASU SELLING PROPERTY IN SOUTHERN JONESBORO

The Arkansas State University Board of Trustees has agreed to sell property in Jonesboro known as the Arkansas Services Center.

The board agreed to the sale to Jonesboro City Water & Light - which bid $1.1 million for the property in the southern part of the city. The property includes nearly 40 acres and has been vacant for several months.

It was not immediately known how much of the proceeds ASU will receive from the sale.

STATE SALES TAX HOLIDAY BEGINS NEXT WEEK

The Missouri Back to School sales tax holiday begins on August 2nd.

If you make a qualified purchase during the holiday, from August 2nd through August 4th, you will not have to pay Missouri’s sales tax. In general, qualified items include clothing less than $100, school supplies not exceeding a total of $50 per purchase, and all computers and computer accessories less than $3,500.

City and County governments can also choose to suspend their sales taxes for the weekend.

Link: http://dor.mo.gov/business/sales/taxholiday/school/
 

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RIVER RADIO NEWS 072513

ARKANSAS MAN ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY ON KIDNAPPING CHARGE

An Arkansas man was arrested Wednesday afternoon on a kidnapping charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 45 year old Curtiss L. Dean, of Pocahontas, was arrested shortly after 3 pm yesterday in Butler County on a charge of felony kidnapping.

Further details about the case were not available.

IRONTON MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says that one man was killed Wednesday night in a single vehicle wreck in St. Francois County.

34 year old Jason R. Holbert, of Ironton was pronounced dead at the scene of the wreck near Highway 221, after the Polaris RZR he was a passenger on left the highway, hit a utility pole, and overturned.

The driver of the vehicle, 35 year old Benjamin Nounce, of Farmington, suffered serious injuries and was taken by Air Evac to Barnes Jewish Hospital.

ELLSINORE MAN CHARGED WITH BURGLARY AND ARSON

An Ellsinore man is facing charges of burglary and arson.

According to Missouri Case Net, Richard Lee Kearbey has been charged with three counts of second degree arson, along with a single count of receiving stolen property and first degree burglary.

Kearbey’s arraignment has been scheduled for July 30th.

THREE ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES IN SCOTT COUNTY

Scott County authorities say three people have been taken into custody following the execution of a search warrant.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 25 year old Kalub Cork and Carla Hays, of Benton, and 20 year old Owen Watkins, of Bell City, were arrested.

Deputies reportedly found a two and a half foot tall marijuana plant, along with numerous items indicating the manufacture of methamphetamine during the search of a residence near Benton on July 23rd.

MAN FACING CHARGES FOLLOWING ALLEGED ABDUCTION

Authorities have arrested a Park Hills man following an alleged abduction on Tuesday.

34 year old David W. Huddleston, is facing charges after he allegedly abducted a one year old girl Tuesday morning. The girl was recovered safe later in the day.

Charges for Huddleston reportedly include child kidnapping, leaving the scene of an accident, and third degree domestic assault.

NO INJURIES REPORTED FOLLOWING PLANE ACCIDENT IN PARAGOULD

There were no reported injuries following a small plane accident yesterday in Northeast Arkansas.

According to KAIT, a plane had landed with its gear up at the Paragould airport. No information was available on what caused the accident.

ANNUAL DUCK BLIND REGISTRATION AT LAKE WAPPAPELLO TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake will be holding the annual duck blind registration and drawing on August 17th, at the Bill Emerson Memorial Visitors’ Center.

The registration for a duck blind is $15, and applicants must bring cash, a personal check or money order.

Anyone who wants to place a floating blind must register by 1 pm. Those who cannot attend the drawing, but still want to register a duck blind, should contact the Natural Resources Management Department at 573-222-8562.

GROUNDBREAKING TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH ON NEW THREE RIVERS EASTERN CAMPUS

A date has been set for the groundbreaking of a new Three Rivers College campus in Sikeston.

The groundbreaking will be held at the intersection of Highways 60 and 61 in Sikeston on Thursday, August 15th. The ceremony will begin at 10 am and is open to the public.

The new eastern campus will include classrooms, a computer lab, science labs, nursing education facilities, and an exhibit hall/auditorium.

HIGHWAY 51 TO BE CLOSED AGAIN TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Missouri Department of Transportation crews will be closing another section of Highway 51 today to replace culvert pipes underneath the roadway.

Highway 51 in Butler County will be closed today from 8 am to 4 pm between County Roads 628 and 632.

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OFFICER INVOLVED IN SHOOTING IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Jonesboro police say an officer investigating alleged drug activity has shot and wounded a man at an apartment complex.

Police say the officer shot the man in the hand about 10:30 p.m. Sunday and that Arkansas State Police have been asked to investigate.

The names of the officer and man and other details of the shooting were not immediately released.

THREE INJURED IN CAR CRASH INVOLVING TRAIN

Three people were injured Monday evening after their vehicle was hit by a train in Iron County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the vehicle was driven by a 16 year old boy from Des Arc. The boy had tried to cross over the railroad tracks on a private road and reportedly travelled into the path of the train.

The driver and another 16 year old boy in the vehicle suffered moderate injuries, while a six year old boy had minor injuries.

AREA BANK WARNS OF FRAUDULENT TEXT MESSAGES

An area bank is warning consumers of a fraudulent text message that has been reported.

According to Montgomery Bank, the text asks for attention regarding your debit card. When you call the number, it will ask you to enter your card number. A release by the bank says that this is not a legitimate text message and that you should not enter any information.

Anyone who has questions or concerns can call 800-455-2275

MAN ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY TOUCHING YOUNG GIRL INAPPROPRIATELY

A man was taken into custody Sunday on a sex related charge.

According to KAIT, 32 year old Jason Sanders, of Jonesboro, was arrested on a charge of raping a young girl. The incident reportedly occurred Friday night.

The eight year old child told her mother about the alleged incident. She was then taken to a local hospital and hospital staff contacted police.

MISSING CHILDREN FOUND IN WAYNE COUNTY

Two children that had gone missing were found last night in Wayne County.

According to KFVS, authorities found the two and four year old children that were missing in the Patterson area. Police and firefighters along with K-9 units were involved in the search.

EAST PRAIRIE WOMAN FACING ASSAULT CHARGES

An East Prairie woman is facing multiple assault charges following an incident last week.

According to authorities, 39 year old Diana K. Bryars allegedly used a steel pipe and a crowbar to damage a farm truck and while breaking a window she also hit the driver of the truck in the face with the crowbar. She had also reportedly rammed into the truck with her vehicle.

Bryars has been charged with first degree domestic assault, first degree assault and for causing property damage to a vehicle.

ARKANSAS UNEMPLOYMENT RATE HOLDS STEADY

Arkansas' unemployment rate for June remained unchanged from the month before at 7.3 percent.

The Department of Workforce Services said Friday that there was a slight decline in the number of employed people but not enough to move from the 7.3 percent figure.

The national unemployment rate also remained steady for the month at 7.6 percent.

A year ago, the Arkansas unemployment rate was also 7.3 percent, though the national rate for June 2012 was 8.2 percent.

MEETING TO BE HELD TO DISCUSS UPCOMING POPLAR BLUFF ROAD PROJECTS

The Missouri Department of Transportation will be holding a community briefing today to discuss upcoming road projects in Poplar Bluff.

The briefing will discuss intersection improvements at Route PP and Township Line Road as well as safety improvements to the Highway 67 crossover at Township Line Road. Visitors can attend the briefing at anytime between 4 and 6 pm today at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce on West Pine Street.

HIGHWAY 51 TO BE CLOSED TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Highway 51 in Butler County will be closed today so crews can replace a culvert pipe.

Weather permitting, Highway 51 will be closed today from 8 am to 4 pm between County Road 639 and Route AA.

PIPE REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY IN NEW MADRID COUNTY

A New Madrid County road will be closed today so crews can replace a pipe.

Highway 162 will be closed from 7:30 am to 5 pm for the replacement, weather permitting. The work zone will be located from County Road 363 to County Road 274.