RIVER RADIO NEWS 100213

TWO SHANNON COUNTY RESIDENTS AMONG THOSE KILLED IN COLORADO ROCK SLIDE Two people from Shannon County have been identified as being among the five people that were killed by a rock slide on a Colorado hiking trail.

22 year old Paris Walkup and 10 year old Baigen Walker, of Birch Tree were killed in the incident Monday morning. The three other fatalities were all from Buena Vista, Colorado.

A 13 year old girl survived the rock slide with a broken leg. WOMAN ARRESTED ON MURDER CHARGES IN FREDERICKTOWN

A Madison County woman is facing murder charges in connection to the death of her husband.

According to authorities, 50 year old Cheryl Long, of Fredericktown, is facing charges of first degree murder and armed criminal action.

The charges stem from the shooting death of 56 year old Alan Q. Long on Monday. PIEDMONT MAN FACING DRUG CHARGE FOR MORPHINE

A Piedmont man was taken into custody Tuesday morning on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 25 year old William R. Hall was arrested in Wayne County on a charge of felony possession of a controlled substance, morphine.

Hall was also reportedly charged with unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and had a misdemeanor warrant out of Poplar Bluff. MAN SENTENCED FOR PLACING VIDEO CAMERA IN CAPE GIRARDEAU RESTROOM

A Missouri man has been sentenced to four years in prison for hiding a video camera in a women's restroom.

The Southeast Missourian reports that 52-year-old Frank Fuchs, of Cedar Hill, was sentenced Monday. He was arrested in August at an office complex in Cape Girardeau after a female soldier from the U.S. Army recruiting office in the building found a video camera under a restroom stall wall.

Fuchs was sentenced to three years in prison in November for a similar crime in Jefferson County. In that case, a store employee found the hidden camera in a grocery store in House Springs. Fuchs was not a store employee, but was identified from photos taken from the camera. KENNETT POLICE INVESTIGATING DEBIT CARD THEFT

Authorities in Kennett are investigating the theft of a debit card and are asking the public for help.

Kennett Police have released photos of the suspect in the case on their Facebook page and are asking anyone who has information about the female to contact Kennett Police at 573-888-4622.

We have the pictures of the suspect available on our Facebook page, as well, at Facebook.com/930kwoc. VA TO HOST FREE FLU SHOT CLINICS FOR VETERANS

Each year in the U.S., the flu causes more than 226,000 hospitalizations and about 36,000 deaths. Obtaining a flu vaccination is the best way to be protected against seasonal influenza.

The VA Medical Center is offering veterans the chance to obtain a flu shot free of charge at all VA clinic areas.

A walk-in no appointment needed flu shot clinic is now open at Poplar Bluff and will be open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm each day until November 1st. Veterans with scheduled appointments in Primary Care or Specialty Clinic will be offered their flu shot during their clinic appointment.

Special flu shot clinics will be offered from 8 am till 2 pm at the Community-based Outpatient Clinics in West Plains on October 21st, in Paragould on October 22nd, in Farmington on October 23rd, in Cape Girardeau on October 24th, and in Sikeston – October 25th.

Veterans who do not receive their healthcare at the VA may get their flu shot by presenting a copy of their DD-214. HIGHWAY PATROL HOSTS BLOOD DRIVE TODAY

Southeast Missouri residents will have the chance to pay tribute to a fallen hero today by giving blood.

Troop E of the Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to invite the public to participate in the "Red Cross, Troop E Corporal Michael E. Webster Blood Drive" on Wednesday, October 2, 2013.

The blood drive will be held at the First United Methodist Church located at 5th and North Main Street in Poplar Bluff. The blood drive will begin at 1 pm and end at 6 pm.

Corporal Michael E. Webster was killed in the line of duty by a drunk driver in October of 1993. GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN FORCES CLOSURE OF OZARK NATIONAL SCENIC RIVERWAYS

Because of the shutdown of the federal government, the National Park Service has closed all 401 national parks, including Ozark National Scenic Riverways.

All park facilities, including amenities on the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, are closed, except for the Ozark Trail and state and county roads.

The public will not be allowed to access any area of the park. Riverways staff will be on duty during the closure to protect life and property. Any visitors found in a closed area will be asked to leave.

Park visitors staying at the Big Spring Lodge and Cabins and in the park’s campgrounds will be given 48 hour notices to make travel arrangements and leave the park.

In addition, all upcoming park programs and school visits will be cancelled, and special events relocated, including the Haunting in the Hills scheduled at Alley Spring October 12th and 13th, if the budget impasse continues. Any scheduled Special Park Uses, such as weddings, may not take place in the park.

Once the federal government shutdown is over, park facilities will be reopened and events can resume. HOME SAFETY TIPS FOR CRIME PREVENTION MONTH

We continue our series today for Crime Prevention Month with a look at some safety tips for your home.

The Highway Patrol says that you should make sure all of your exterior doors and windows have strong locks on them. The doors should have dead bolt locks with a minimum of one-inch throw.

Try to keep your property well lit, particularly your porch and entrances to your home.

The Highway Patrol also recommends that you do not hide a house key under the doormat or in a flowerpot because that is probably the first place a burglar will look. Instead you should give a key to a trusted neighbor.

Part three of our series on Crime Prevention Month will be tomorrow where we take a look at some safety tips for your vehicle.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 100113

HEALTH EXCHANGES OPEN IN MISSOURI The insurance exchanges that form a part of the Affordable Care Act go into effect today.

The online insurance exchange in Missouri is being operated by the federal government after state lawmakers and then voters rejected a state-run system. Unlike in many other states, few details about the plans' premium costs, deductible levels and other specifics were disclosed in advance of today's kickoff.

Consumers have until March to enroll, or by December 15th if they want coverage starting January 1st. The online marketplaces are for those who don't receive employer-sponsored health coverage or for certain residents eligible for workplace plans but looking for better deals. Program details can be found online at www.healthcare.gov. MAN SENTENCED ON MULTIPLE CHARGES IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY

A man is facing a decade incarceration following his sentencing yesterday on multiple charges.

According to Missouri Case Net, 27 year old Jeff Hemphill, of Charleston, was sentenced to 10 years incarceration on two counts of 1st degree assault - serious physical injury, 7 years on two counts of abuse of child, and seven years on two counts of 1st degree endangering the welfare of a child.

A jury found Hemphill guilty of the six counts in August. The judge ruled for the sentences to be run concurrent with each other. TWO ARRESTED IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY ON METH CHARGES

Two Charleston residents were arrested yesterday afternoon in Mississippi County on meth charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 54 year old Billy J. Buttry and 46 year old Lisa L. Buttry were arrested at around 4 pm on felony charges of attempt to manufacture a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia – methamphetamine. CARUTHERSVILLE POLICE MAKE ARREST IN ROBBERY CASE

A Caruthersville man is in custody after being arrested in a strong arm robbery case.

Authorities say they responded to a robbery call Friday morning. The victim told officers that he was carrying cash, going to Jerry Body Shop, when a man approached him, grabbed the money and ran.

A witness was able to identify the suspect as Claude E. Taylor, of Caruthersville. Police later arrested Taylor. He has been charged with second degree robbery. DRUGS AND FIREARMS FOUND IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS RESIDENCE

Authorities in Northeast Arkansas reportedly found guns and drugs while executing a warrant over the weekend at a residence in Imboden.

According to authorities, 50 year old Herschel Davis Sr. was taken into custody.

Davis is facing charges of delivery of a controlled substance – meth, possession of a controlled substance, simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, possession of drug paraphernalia, and use of a communication device to commit a felony. MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO MANSLAUGHTER IN CONNECTION TO MURDER CASE

A Poplar Bluff man has pled guilty to manslaughter charges in connection to the shooting death of Marcus McFarland.

According to the Southeast Missourian, 23 year old Paris Thomas has pled guilty to involuntary manslaughter and unlawful possession of a firearm.

Thomas had originally been charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action in connection to the case before agreeing to a plea agreement. ARKANSAS MAN CHARGED WITH RAPE

An Arkansas man has been taken into custody after being charged with rape.

According to KAIT, 47 year old Ronnie Cashion, of Piggott, was arrested following an investigation by the Piggott Police Department and the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division.

Cashion is facing charges of rape and sexual indecency with a child. LISTENING POST MEETING TO BE HELD NEXT WEEK

Staff members with United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Doniphan next week to speak with Missourians.

The meetings will be a part of the Senator’s Listening Post series. Listening Posts are intended for Missourians to share their questions and concerns during meetings with members of Senator Blunt's staff.

The Listening Post will be held from 10 am to 11 am at the Ripley County Courthouse in Doniphan on Tuesday, October 8th. ASH WOOD QUARANTINE EXTENDS TO ALL OF MISSOURI

The expansion of the tree-killing emerald ash borer into new areas means ash wood can now be transported freely within Missouri.

Ash wood products can only be transported among counties under quarantine. The Missouri Department of Agriculture expanded the quarantine last week from nine counties to the entire state. That means ash wood products can be transported among all the state's counties and the City of St. Louis.

Separate federal requirements govern taking ash wood from quarantined counties out of state. OCTOBER IS CRIME PREVENTION MONTH

With crime prevention month beginning today, the Missouri State Highway Patrol has some tips on what you should do when you realize that you have been a victim of identity theft.

One of the first things you should do is notify the credit bureaus, your creditors, your bank, and local law enforcement.

Also you should notify the local postal inspector if you suspect an identity thief has filed a change of address with the post office or has used the mail to commit credit or bank fraud.

More information, including a brochure on identity theft is available on the Highway Patrol’s website at www.mshp.dps.gov.

Tomorrow we will continue our series on Crime Prevention with tips for home safety.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 093013

RIVER RADIO NEWS 093013  

AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR SIKESTON ROBBERY SUSPECT

Authorities in Sikeston are searching for a suspect in connection to the robbery of an area convenience store.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, Saturday morning at around 9:20 am a suspect robbed a clerk at a Breaktime Convenience store. The suspect struggled with the clerk and was able to take a deposit bag by force.

He escaped the area in a white Chevrolet Malibu with tinted windows. Anyone who has information about the incident is asked to contact 573-471-4711 or the crime stoppers hotline at 573-471-1500.

CARUTHERSVILLE POLICE MAKE ARREST IN ROBBERY CASE

A Caruthersville man is in custody after being arrested in a strong arm robbery case.

Authorities say they responded to a robbery call Friday morning.  The victim told officers that he was carrying cash, going to Jerry Body Shop, when a man approached him, grabbed the money and ran.

A witness was able to identify the suspect as Claude E. Taylor, of Caruthersville.  Police later arrested Taylor.  He has been charged with second degree robbery.

THREE FACING CHARGES FOLLOWING ALLEGED BURGLARY

Three men from Memphis, Tennessee, are facing charges in connection to an alleged burglary last week.

According to KFVS, 22 year old Vincente V. Young, 19 year old William M. Taylor, and 18 year old Marcquise L. Taylor were arrested by Cape Girardeau authorities following the incident Friday afternoon.

A man was reportedly cut with a knife in the incident and was taken to an area hospital for treatment. The three suspects are facing charges of first degree burglary, armed criminal action, and first degree assault.

TWO ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES IN STODDARD COUNTY

Two Bernie residents were taken into custody Friday night on drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 46 year old Michael L. Dabbs and 21 year old Ashley B. Nunnery were arrested shortly before 10 pm Friday night.

They are each facing a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia, in addition to a charge of felony possession of a controlled substance, hydrocodone.

INVESTIGATION ONGOING INTO DEATH OF INMATE

An area man has died after being taken into police custody.

According to the Standard Democrat, New Madrid County Sheriff Terry Stevens says that Daniel Presnell died on Thursday at a Cape Girardeau hospital.

Presnell, who was wanted for failure to appear, had been brought to authorities earlier in the week by a bail bondsman. He reportedly appeared intoxicated but after not improving he was taken to a hospital.

Stevens has asked the Highway Patrol to investigate the death. An autopsy was performed last week.

CONSERVATION AREA IN MADISON COUNTY HIT BY VANDALS

Officials with the Missouri Department of Conservation are looking for more information into a recent vandalism case near Fredericktown.

According to the MDC, the vandals spray painted nine areas at the Castor River Shut-Ins. The area that was vandalized is part of Missouri’s only known pink granite shut-ins.

MDC staff is considering the best methods to remove the spray paint. Staff will take extra precautions in the clean-up process because the chemical agents that remove spray paint should not be released into the watershed at the shut-ins.

Anyone who has information is asked to call 1-800-392-1111. Information leading to an arrest of those responsible could result in a cash reward.

JONESBORO POLICE DEPARTMENT AWARDED HALF A MILLION DOLLARS.

The Jonesboro police department is being awarded a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services - or COPS - program.

U.S. Attorney Chris Thyer and the Justice Department announced the $500,000 grant Friday.

Thyer says the COPS program provides for salary and benefits for additional officers for three years. He says the grants are based on monetary needs, local crime rates and the police department's community policing plans.

MINGO WILDLIFE REFUGE COULD BE OPENED UP TO EXPANDED HUNTING PROGRAMS

A new proposal could see the Mingo National Wildlife Refuge opened up to expanded hunting programs.

According to the United States Department of the Interior, Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell has announced that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to expand fishing and hunting opportunities throughout the National Wildlife Refuge System.

Included in the proposal is opening up Mingo to expand migratory bird hunting, upland game hunting and big game hunting. Comments are being accepted on the proposal through October 24^th.

ROAD WORK THIS WEEK IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Highway 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane for part of this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs

The section of roadway to be reduced is located between Highway 153 and Highway 25.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Wednesday, October 2^nd from 7 am to 3 pm daily.

LOANS AVAILABLE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES IN RESPONSE TO JULY AND AUGUST FLOODING

Small nonfarm businesses in Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas may be eligible for low interest federal disaster loans.

The loans are to offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by the excessive rainfall and flooding that occurred from July 15^th to August 19^th.

There were 46 primary and neighboring counties that are eligible for the loans. Some of the primary Missouri counties include Butler, Dunklin, New Madrid, and Stoddard.

More information is available online at disasterloan.sba.gov.

GROUP SAYS MISSOURIANS SHOULD CONSIDER WAITING BEFORE ENROLLING IN EXCHANGES

Missouri residents can begin enrolling Tuesday for health coverage offered through a new online insurance marketplace. But some supporters of the initiative are advising people to wait a while.

The health insurance exchanges are a key part of the 2010 Affordable Care Act. Though enrollment starts Tuesday, people can wait until December 15^th to sign up and still be included when the insurance coverage starts January 1^st.

The Missouri Foundation for Health is one of the many nonprofit groups spreading the word about the new insurance options. Foundation vice president Ryan Barker says there likely will be glitches when the website launches.

He encourages people to check out the site, do some research and take some time to think about it before enrolling.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 092713

RIVER RADIO NEWS 092713  

UPDATE: BUTLER COUNTY MAN KILLED IN EXCAVATOR ACCIDENT IDENTIFIED

An excavator accident yesterday afternoon has claimed the life of a Poplar Bluff man.

Authorities say the incident happened at around 3:40 pm at Roxy Lake, off of County Road 450, when an excavator being operated by Keith Robertson slid down the bank of the lake and overturned into the water.

Rescue workers were able to pry open a window of the excavator and extract Robertson.  He was taken to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center when he died a short time later.

MAN ALLEGEDLY KILLS HIMSELF WHEN SURROUNDED BY POLICE

A man reportedly shot himself Wednesday after getting surrounded by police in a residence.

According to Kennett Police, Jimmy Youmans was stopped Saturday by a Campbell police officer and during the stop he allegedly attempted run over two officers before fleeing.

On Monday, Dunklin County deputies received information that Youmans was in a local peach orchard, armed with a firearm and making threats that he would shoot deputies if they came any closer. A perimeter was set up, however Youmans was not found.

On Wednesday, Kennett Police received information that Youmans was in a Kennett residence. Officers were able to make contact with Youmans and convinced him to come to the front door, but he then retreated back into the house. After several minutes officers heard a gunshot.

Officers entered the house and found Youmans in a back bedroom, unconscious on the floor, from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. He later died at an area hospital. Youmans reportedly had warrants out of Wayne, Cape Girardeau, and Dunklin County.

The Missouri Highway Patrol is currently investigating the shooting.

MAN WANTED ON MURDER CHARGES ARRESTED IN PARAGOULD

A man who was wanted out of Memphis on murder charges has been arrested in Paragould.

According to KAIT, Ronald Goodwin was arrested by United States Marshals in connection to the death of his mother.

WHQB out of Memphis is reporting that Goodwin’s aging mother Jackie Goodwin, died from neglect. Ronald also allegedly stole from her.

TEENAGER ENTERS NOT GUILTY PLEA IN DEATH OF 11 YEAR OLD GIRL

An Arkansas teenager accused of killing an 11 year old girl has pleaded not guilty to first degree murder.

Seventeen year old Christopher Sowell pleaded not guilty to the charge on Thursday. He's due back in court on October 14^th, and his trial is set to begin on November 12^th.

Sowell is accused of killing 11 year old Jessica Williams. Authorities found the girl's body in a ditch near Gosnell last month.

Sowell was previously ordered to be held in jail on $2 million cash bond.

A Mississippi County Sheriff's Department document says Sowell has acknowledged killing Jessica. That document says Sowell said he choked Jessica and pushed her over the side of a bridge.

Sowell's attorney, John Bradley, and prosecutor Scott Ellington declined to comment because a judge has issued a gag order in the case.

MALDEN POLICE SEEK SUSPECTS IN ARMED ROBBERY

Police in Malden are looking for two men who robbed a convenience store Wednesday night.

According to authorities, two men entered the Amerimart at Highway J and North Douglas in Malden at around 11 pm.  Witnesses told police that both men had their faces covered and one of them was armed with a gun. The men took an undisclosed amount of cash.

Both suspects were described as black males of medium build, 5’8” to 5’10” tall.

CHARLESTON MAN FACING MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES OUT OF MISSISSIPPI COUNTY

A Charleston man has been taken into custody on multiple drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 43 year old Terrance R. Webster is facing charges including possession of a controlled substance for heroin and Percocet, possession of a controlled substance in a correctional facility, endangering the welfare of a child, and driving while intoxicated.

Webster was arrested in Mississippi County shortly after 10 pm last night.

MAN WHO ESCAPED DURING HIGH SPEED CHASE APPREHENDED

Authorities in Lawrence County, Arkansas say they have located and arrested a man who earlier escaped a deputy during a high speed chase.

According to authorities, a sheriff’s deputy observed a vehicle speeding and when he attempted to initiate a stop, the vehicle accelerated to over 85 miles per hour. The vehicle was later spotted, but the driver was not in the area.

The owner of the vehicle was identified as 46 year old Clifton Tillman, of Alton, Missouri. Authorities say they were able to locate Tillman in Sharp County using a signal from his cell phone.

He has been charged with burglary, assault and possession of a controlled substance.

EGAD, WHAT A CAD TO PREMIERE TONIGHT

An old fashioned melodrama is premiering tonight in Poplar Bluff

“Egad, What a Cad,” will be performed by Center Stage, the Three Rivers College Theatre Company, tonight, tomorrow and Sunday.

The performances at the Tinnin Fine Arts Center will be at 7 pm, except for the show on the 29^th, which will be a matinee beginning at 2:30. Tickets are $10, or $5 with a valid Three Rivers student ID.

Tickets are available at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce, the Financial Services office at Three Rivers’ Poplar Bluff Campus, online at trcc.edu/tinnin. Tickets will also be available at the door.

FORREST OFFICIALS SEEKING COMMENTS ON CHANGES TO MANAGEMENT PLAN

Officials with the Mark Twain National Forrest are asking for public comments on proposed changes to the 2005 Forrest Management plan.

The proposal modifies and adds guidelines to protect seven threatened and endangered species, including the Ozark hellbender, spectaclecase, and sheepnose along with one endangered plant, the running buffalo clover.

Critical habitat has been designated for two other endangered species, Hine’s emerald dragonfly and Tumbling Creek cavesnail. Comments must be submitted by November 1^st. More information about the changes and how to submit comments is available online at fs.usda.gov/mtnf.

FBI WARNING OF EMAIL SCAM

The FBI says they continue to receive reports of spam emails that use FBI officials’ names and titles in online fraud schemes.

According to the St. Louis FBI Division, email recipients are usually notified they have received a large sum of money. The latest round of emails uses the name of new FBI Director James B. Comey.

And, some of the emails reported to the Internet Crime Complaint Center are continuing to use the alleged “Anti Terrorist & Monetary Crimes Division” of the FBI. All e-mails encourage the recipient to send money for various reasons.

The FBI says to not respond, because these e-mails are a hoax.

If you have received a message that claims to be from the FBI, disregard its instructions and file a complaint at www.IC3.gov.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 092613

RIVER RADIO NEWS 092613  

AUTHORITIES LOOKING FOR MAN WHO ESCAPED CHASE

Authorities in Northeast Arkansas are searching for a man who reportedly escaped following a high speed chase in Lawrence County.

According to authorities, a sheriff’s deputy observed a vehicle speeding and when he attempted to initiate a stop, the vehicle accelerated to over 85 miles per hour. The vehicle was later spotted by a Smithville firefighter, but the driver was not in the area.

The owner of the vehicle was identified as 46 year old Clifton Tillman, of Alton, Missouri. Authorities say that Tillman is being considered dangerous and has charges for of burglary and assault.

MOTHER OF NEWBORN AND HER STEPMOTHER FACE CHARGES AFTER TAKING BABY FROM HOSPITAL

Two women are facing charges after they allegedly took a newborn from the Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center in Kennett.

Authorities say the baby was born at around 2 am yesterday morning. At 4 am, the mother of the child, Amber Trammel, went into the nursery area to hold the baby and then left the hospital.

Investigators located Trammel’s stepmother, Laura Stone, who confirmed by phone that the baby was with her. Authorities say the infant was returned safely to the hospital at around 7 am.

Trammel and Stone are each facing a charge of child endangerment.

FIRE DESTROYS DEXTER BUILDING

A building was significantly damaged following a fire over the weekend in Dexter.

The Sunday morning fire was at a building which had an office and warehouse for Dexter BBQ. Firefighters battled the fire for almost five hours.

The office is considered a total loss. A cause for the fire has not been determined.

ARKANSAS LEGISLATORS TO DISCUSS NEW STEEL MILL IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY

Arkansas Legislators are to gather in West Memphis to get an update from the top executive behind an effort to put a $1.1 billion steel mill in Mississippi County.

The Insurance and Commerce Committee is to meet at 10 a.m. at Mid-South Community College, where members are to hear from John Correnti.

Correnti is president and chief executive officer of Big River Steel. Also addressing the panel will be David Stickler, who is a member of Big River's board.

The mill is projected to employ more than 500 people who would earn more than $75,000 per year. Construction is expected to begin next year and would create about 2,000 temporary jobs.

The mill, which is to get $125 million in state financing, is to be built in Osceola.

SENATOR BLUNTS STAFF TO HOST LISTENING POST MEETING IN GREENVILLE

Staff members of United State Senator Roy Blunt will be in Greenville next week for a listening post meeting.

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

The meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, October 2^nd, from 2 to 3 pm at the Wayne County Courthouse.

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.

GED TEST TO BE OFFERED AT THREE RIVERS CENTER IN KENNETT

The Kennett Three Rivers Center will be hosting a General Education Development test next month.

The GED test will be held offered on Saturday, October 19^th from 7:30 am to 5 pm. Registration for the exam will be available until October 16^th.

More information about the test, along with steps you need to take to register is available by calling the Three Rivers College Testing Center at 573-840-9667.

MODOT CREWS TO BE IN BUTLER COUNTY TODAY

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Butler County today for pavement repairs on Route CC.

During the repairs, Route CC will be reduced to one lane between County Roads 686 and 670. Work is scheduled to be done today from 7 am to 4 pm.

MISSOURI BUSINESSES LOOKING AT POSSIBLE RISE FOR WORKERS COMPENSATION INSURANCE

Missouri businesses could face significantly higher costs for workers' compensation insurance next year.

An organization that projects workers' compensation insurance costs is forecasting that Missouri insurers will see an 11.6 percent increase in their claim costs in 2014. The projections by the National Council on Compensation Insurance often are used by insurance companies to set the premiums charged to businesses.

The increase is driven partly by a new Missouri law that seeks to shore up a financially troubled fund for disabled workers who suffer additional on-the-job injuries. The law shifts some types of claims out of the Second Injury Fund and into traditional workers' compensation insurance.

Businesses also could face a higher surcharge - on top of their regular workers' compensation premiums - to help replenish the Second Injury Fund.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 092513

RIVER RADIO NEWS 092513  

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN FACING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES

A Poinsett County man is facing child pornography charges following his arrest earlier this week.

According to authorities, Jason Lee McDonald, of Harrisburg, was arrested following the execution of a search warrant at his home on Monday. McDonald had been under investigation since September 10^th.

During the search, authorities reportedly found an indoor marijuana growing operation, along with firearms. Computers were also seized from the residence.

McDonald is facing a probable cause hearing on multiple charges including distributing, possessing or viewing matter depicting sexually explicit conduct involving a child and simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms.

MAN ARRESTED FOR REPORTEDLY SHOOTING AT GIRLFRIEND’S VEHICLE

Paragould police have taken an area man into custody following a reported shooting incident.

34 year old Kevan Leake was arrested after his girlfriend told officers that Leake had shot at her vehicle following an argument. The woman said she was in the vehicle at the time. Authorities found four bullet holes in the hood of the car.

62 YEAR OLD ARKANSAS MAN CHARGED WITH RAPE

A two week long investigation has led to the arrest of an Arkansas man on a rape charge.

According to the Baxter County Sheriff’s Office, 62 year old William Leon Bardin, of Cotter, was arrested Monday. A young female adult had contacted authorities and alleged that she had been molested by Bardin over a period of years.  She told authorities that the abuse had started when she was five or six years old.

The incidents allegedly occurred at his home and in the ice cream truck that Bardin drove through neighborhoods in the area. During a meeting with the victim, Bardin reportedly admitted to deviate sexual activity with the victim while she was a child. The victim was wearing a miniature recording device.

The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Baxter County Sheriff’s Office.

RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY TO BE HELD TODAY FOR REMODELED ACADEMIC RESOURCE COMMONS

A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held this morning for Three Rivers College’s newly remodeled Academic Resource Commons building and its Mobile Training Labs.

The ribbon cutting for the ARC building will be held at 10 am with the Mobile Training Lab ceremony to follow an hour later. The ceremonies will be held at the college’s Poplar Bluff campus.

The newly finished ARC contains the Myrtle Rutland Library, the Café ARC, new facilities for the college’s tutoring and ACHIEVE programs, classroom space for Three Rivers’ revamped transitional programs, and a public-access computer lab.

The Mobile Training Labs will support the institution’s workforce development programs by providing two modular, easily transported classroom spaces.

EVENT COMING UP THURSDAY FOR HOMELESS IN POPLAR BLUFF

Dozens of volunteers and community organizers are preparing for the third annual Poplar Bluff Area Homeless Coalition Outreach and Veteran Stand Down coming up on Thursday.

The program will be available for all citizens in the area who are at risk for being homeless. Services and resources available at the event include housing, employment and educational opportunities, as well as health care services, clothing, and food.

The event will be held Thursday from 9 am to 3 pm at the Black River Coliseum.

POPLAR BLUFF PINK OUT THIS FRIDAY

Poplar Bluff students, employees, Mules fans and businesses will be painting the town pink this Friday as a part of the annual “Pink-out.”

Pink-Out Day goes to raise money for the United Cancer Assistance Network which provides monetary support for area cancer patients on a case-by-case basis.

A limited amount of Pink-Out shirts are available at the UCAN offices on Maud Street. Last year, $14,000 was generated for UCAN.

HALLOWEEN SAFE ZONE SCHEDULED FOR OCTOBER 31^ST

If you want your children to have a safe and fun experience for Halloween, make sure and stop by the Halloween Safe Zone.

The Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center Halloween Safe Zone will be held on October 31^st from 4 pm to 7 pm at the Tinnin Center on the campus of Three Rivers College.

Businesses can still be a part of the event, however booth space is limited. For more information call River Radio at 785-0881 and ask for Carrie.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS RELEASED ON ARKANSAS INSURANCE EXCHANGE RATES

Arkansas insurance officials say there was no difference between the rates originally proposed and those announced yesterday for half of the insurers participating in the state's marketplace under the federal health care law.

The Arkansas Insurance Department on Tuesday released more details about the rates for the four insurers that will participate in the exchange. Open enrollment for the exchange begins October 1^st.

The department said there was no difference between the rates announced this week and those originally proposed by Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield and the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Multi-State plan. The rates approved for QualChoice Health Insurance were 25.1 percent lower than originally proposed.

The rates for Arkansas Health and Wellness Solutions were 5.3 percent lower than originally proposed.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 092413

NAMES RELEASED OF TWO ARRESTED IN JONESBORO AFTER PIPE BOMBS WERE FOUND Authorities in Northeast Arkansas have released the names of two people who were arrested after pipe bombs were found in a Jonesboro residence.

Authorities took 22 year old Blake Johnson and 21 year old Cassie-Lee Crisler into custody. In addition to the pipe bombs, authorities also discovered bomb making materials and other weapons. FLORIDA MAN ARRESTED IN NEW MADRID COUNTY ON DRUG TRAFFICKING CHARGE

A Florida man was arrested Monday afternoon in New Madrid County on a felony drug charge.

31 year old Quinnton M. Bowers, of Gibsonton, Florida, is facing a charge of felony first degree drug trafficking, heroin, along with an additional charge of following too close, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Bowers was arrested at around 1 pm Monday. FARMERS URGED TO BE CAUTIOUS WHEN USING FARM EQUIPMENT ON HIGHWAYS

Yesterday, we offered some safety tips for motorists when they approach farm equipment on highways. Today, we have some tips for farmers who use farm equipment on the state’s roadways, courtesy of the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Before leaving, make sure any farm equipment being driven on Missouri roadways is properly marked with lights and a “slow-moving vehicle” emblem.

Farmers are advised to avoid driving at dawn or dusk, where it can be more difficult for other drivers to see them. Also, remember to drive as far to the right as possible, and if traffic starts to accumulate behind you, you should pull off onto the side of the road in a level area, so that the vehicles can pass.

A complete list of regulations is available online at Modot.mo.gov. THREE RIVERS COLLEGE PRESIDENT PRESENTED AWARD FROM NATIONAL MARKETING GROUP

Three Rivers College President Dr. Devin Stephenson was recently given an award by a national marketing group.

Stephenson received the Pacesetter of the Year Award from District 5 of the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations.

The award recognizes a president or CEO at a two-year community or technical college or district office who has demonstrated leadership and support for college communications and marketing. Stephenson will now be eligible for the national award in March.

The Three Rivers Communications Department also won two awards for the college annual report and for a Jazz Festival poster. Graphic designer Matthew Thomas and Director of Communications Teresa Johnson worked on these projects. GUEST SPEAKERS TO DISCUSS “WORK” EXHIBIT AT LIBRARY

Two area historians are set to speak about the history of Butler County industry, commerce and education at the Poplar Bluff Municipal Library this week.

Retired SEMO history professor Dr. Frank Nickell and retired journalist John Standard will discuss how the river, railroad, cypress forests and agriculture shaped area business as part of an exhibit called The Way We Worked. Nickell and Standard will be speaking at the Library on Wednesday at 10 am and 6 pm.

The Way We Worked is on display at the Poplar Bluff Library until Monday, October 7th. EDUCATION COMMITTEE TO HOLD MEETING IN POPLAR BLUFF

A Missouri House committee studying possible changes to education policy will be gathering today in Poplar Bluff.

Committee members will meet today at Three Rivers College beginning at 7 pm.

The House Interim Committee on Education plans to deal with topics such as student transfers, early childhood education, educator evaluations, Common Core standards and school safety.

Republican House member Steve Cookson, of Poplar Bluff, is the chairman of the interim committee. Cookson says committee members want to hear Missourians' thoughts on ways to strengthen the education system. THIS WEEKEND TO BE FEE FREE WEEKEND AT MARK TWAIN NATIONAL FORREST

As a part of National Public Lands Day and National Tribal Lands Day, Mark Twain National Forrest will be offering a fee free weekend.

No fees will be charged for camping in non-reserved sites at areas operated by Mark Twain National Forest this Friday and Saturday night. Normal fees will still be applied to reserved sites, as well as those operated by concessionaires and for use of motorized trails. PAVEMENT REPAIRS TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Pavement repairs have been scheduled for today in Butler County.

Route N in Butler County will be reduced to one lane today from 8 am to 4 pm for the repairs.

The work zone will be located from Highway 51 to Highway 53. HIGHWAY 25 TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Highway 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs

The section of Highway 25 to be reduced is located between Highway 153 and County Road 426.

Weather permitting, ork will take place today through Thursday from 6:30 am to 3:30 pm daily MEDICAID RECIPIENTS MAY HAVE HAD PERSONAL INFORMATION MAILED TO WRONG ADDRESS

Missouri officials say the personal information of more than 25,000 Medicaid recipients may have been mailed to the wrong addresses.

The Department of Social Services said Monday a computer system error led to possible incorrect mailings by contractor Infocrossing Inc. The error was identified in July and involved correspondence from December 21st, 2009, through June 7th of this year.

The agency said last month that personal information for nearly 1,400 Medicaid recipients was mailed to the wrong addresses because of a software programming error.

The department says the incorrect mailings could have contained names, birthdates, phone numbers and in some cases, full Social Security numbers.

Officials say they have received no reports of identity theft, but Infocrossing is offering free credit monitoring for two years.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 092313

RIVER RADIO NEWS 092313  

14 YEAR OLD KILLED AFTER LOSING CONTROL OF VEHICLE

A Caruthersville teenager was killed last night after she lost control of her vehicle in Pemiscot County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 14 year old Laura Gurley was driving a 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix on County Road 341 when she lost control and overturned. Gurley was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 12 year old passenger in the vehicle suffered moderate injuries. Neither of the two was wearing a safety device according to the crash report.

TWO DIE IN JONESBORO MOTORCYCLE/TRUCK CRASH

Two Jonesboro residents were fatally injured in a collision between a truck and a motorcycle over the weekend.

Authorities say the incident happened last night in Jonesboro, near Johnson Avenue and Azalea Lane, when a truck turned into the path of a motorcycle.  The driver of the motorcycle, 25 year old Brandon Langston, and his passenger, 33 year old Leah Shelby, both died from injuries sustained in the crash.

The driver of the truck was uninjured.

TWO IN CUSTODY AFTER PIPE BOMBS FOUND IN JONESBORO RESIDENCE

Two people have been arrested after authorities reportedly found pipe bombs during the search of a Jonesboro residence.

In addition to the pipe bombs, authorities also discovered bomb making materials and other weapons.

The identity of the two people in custody was not available.

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN BUTLER COUNTY WRECK INVOLVING A TRAIN

Two people were flown to hospitals after the vehicle they were in was hit by a train Saturday afternoon.

According to the Highway Patrol, the collision occurred on County Road 321, near Harviell. 25 year old Dustin Putman, of Poplar Bluff, reportedly pulled into the path of the locomotive.

Putman and a passenger, 24 year old Tricia N. Ellis, also of Poplar Bluff, were each ejected from the vehicle and suffered serious injuries.

SHOTS FIRED DURING INCIDENT IN CAPE GIRARDEAU

Shots were reportedly fired during an incident last week in Cape Girardeau.

According to authorities, officers were responding to a call Thursdsay evening when they heard a gunshot coming from a home. A resident told authorities that someone had fired a shot into a couch and took money.

The suspect fled and has not been found.

CREWS TO PERFORM ROAD WORK THIS WEEK IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Contractor crews will be in Dunklin County starting today for surface leveling work on Highway 164.

During the repairs, Highway 164 will be reduced between Route Y and Highway 412.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Tuesday, October 1^st from 7 am to 6:30 pm daily.

BOND ISSUE APPROVED FOR NEW ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY BUILDING

The Arkansas State University Board of Trustees has approved a $27.7 million bond issue to finance the completion of a humanities and social sciences building and construction of a multipurpose student activities center on the Jonesboro campus.

The school says the board approved the measure on Friday.

School officials say the 120,000-square-foot Humanities and Social Sciences Building is expected to be finished by fall 2015. It will be the new home of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and other academic programs.

The student activities center will be a 78,000-square-foot multipurpose facility for students, athletics and the community. Construction is expected to begin during the first half of 2014.

ARKANSAS UNEMPLOYMENT RATE FOR AUGUST HOLDS STEADY

The Arkansas unemployment rate for August remained steady at 7.4 percent.

Officials with the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services said Friday that the number of employed people declined during the month, but not enough to move the number.

Overall, the state's civilian labor force fell by 4,800, with 5,300 fewer employed and 500 more unemployed people.

The national unemployment rate dropped one-tenth of a percentage point from 7.4 percent to 7.3 percent for August.

A year ago, the August unemployment rate for Arkansas was 8.1 percent, so the jobless rate has dropped by eight-tenths of a percentage point over the last 12 months.

DRIVERS NEED TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR FARM MACHINERY

With crop harvesting going on across Missouri, the Highway Patrol wants motorists to be on the lookout for farm machinery.

Last year in Missouri, one person was killed and 23 were injured in crashes in a total of 173 crashes involving farm equipment. Motorists are advised to slow down and be patient when approaching a tractor or other farm machinery.

Wait to pass until you have a clear view of the road ahead and there is no oncoming traffic and never pass on a hill or curve.

Collisions also commonly occur when a motorist tries to pass a left-turning farm vehicle. A tractor that appears to be pulling to the right side of the road to let motorists pass, instead may be preparing to make a wide left turn. Watch the farmer’s hand and light signals closely.

Tomorrow we will have tips for how farmers can stay safe while on the roads.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 092013

RIVER RADIO NEWS 092013  

NAME RELEASED OF BODY FOUND IN POCAHONTAS

Authorities in Arkansas have released the identity of a body that was found this week in Pocahontas.

The body was that of Matthew St. Amant, a carnival worker from Louisiana. He had been reported missing earlier this month by a relative.

According to Pocahontas authorities, the body was found beside the Randolph County Fairgrounds on Wednesday. A cause of death has not been released.

SIKESTON OFFICIALS WARN OF IMPERSONATOR MAILING ENFORCEMENT VIOLATION LETTERS

Officials in Sikeston are warning local residents of an impersonator who is mailing out code enforcement violation letters.

The letters are regarding the improper deposit of debris on sidewalks, streets and alleys; however they lack a city of Sikeston letterhead and are also unsigned.

Anyone who receives such a letter is being asked to call 471-2512.

CHARLESTON MAN FACING MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES

A Charleston man is facing multiple drug related charges following his arrest yesterday morning in Mississippi County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 55 year old Tony K. Vinson was arrested shortly before 10 am on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, reportedly for methamphetamine and xanax.

Other charges include driving while intoxicated, driving while revoked, and 2 counts of unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

GRANT ALLOWS WALKING TRACKS TO BE ADDED AT POPLAR BLUFF ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

The Poplar Bluff School District has received funding for walking tracks at four local elementary schools.

The funding, totaling almost $30,000, was used to build asphalt walking tracks at Eugene Field, Lake Road, Oak Grove and O’Neal Elementary Schools that are eight feet wide with varying lengths, depending on the size of the schoolyards.

The money came from the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention as a part of a study concerning the correlation between increased physical activity and academic success.

AREA SCHOOL NAMED ONE OF BEST IN STATE

An area school has been named one of the best schools in the state.

According to information from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, Oak Ridge R-VI School District earned 136 out of 140 points in their most recent Annual Performance Report.

The score is based on MAP and End of Course assessment data, ACT scores, advanced courses, career education courses, college placement, career education placement, graduation and attendance rates.

The Oak Ridge R-VI School District was organized as a high school district in 1874 and has been recognized as the oldest continuous public high school district west of the Mississippi River.

Oak Ridge School District is comprised of sections of Cape Girardeau, Bollinger and Perry Counties.

OLD GREENVILLE DAYS KICKS OFF THIS WEEKEND

This weekend has been set for the 22^nd Annual Old Greenville Days.

There will be children’s games, arts and crafts demonstrations, food, music, and more available from 9 am to 6 pm both Saturday and Sunday. The event is free for the public to attend and is located just south of Greenville on Highway 67.

For more information, call 573-222-8562.

HIGHWAY 21 REPAIRS UNDERWAY IN CARTER AND RIPLEY COUNTIES

Highway 21 in Carter and Ripley Counties will be reduced to one lane through the beginning of November, so contractor crews can haul dirt and perform grading on the shoulders.

The work zone is located from US 60 in Carter County to US 160 in Ripley County.

Weather permitting; work will take place through Friday, November 1^st from 6 am to 6 pm daily, including weekends as necessary.

NEW APP TO AID THOSE WHO LIKE TO LOOK AT FALL FOLIAGE

Missouri's Conservation Department expects trees to be especially colorful this fall, and the agency is making it easy for leaf-peepers to find good place to behold the foliage.

The department has activated its "MO Fall Color" app for smartphones and other mobile devices and will keep it active through November. The app provides weekly fall color reports from places around Missouri, with GPS navigation information.

Users can also add their own fall color photos through the app, which is available for download on the Department of Conservation website.

The department's forestry program manager says this year's wet spring and cool summer produced healthy trees with plentiful leaves. The final element needed for vibrant colors is a fall with sunny days and cool nights but no frost or high winds.

MISSOURI MEDIAN INCOMES FELL ACCORDING TO CENSUS DATA

New U.S. census data shows that Missouri is 1 of just two states where median incomes fell in 2012 from the previous year, as many residents continue to grapple with a slow-to- recover economy.

Median household income in the state was $45, 321 last year. That's a 1.6 percent decline from 2011. Nationally, the median income for U.S. households in 2012 was $51, 017. That figure remained flat after two previous annual declines.

The federal Census Bureau also reported a statewide poverty rate of 11.7 percent. But for single mothers with dependent children, the poverty level hovers around 44 percent.

Statewide, nearly 270,000 of the 1.5 million families who participated in the annual American Community Survey reported household incomes under $24,999.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091913

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091913  

CHILD FATALLY INJURED IN TWO CAR COLLISION

A four year old Neelyville girl was fatally injured in a two car wreck in Butler County yesterday morning.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the collision happened at approximately 11 am, about a mile south of Neelyville on Highway 67. A vehicle driven by 33 year old Dorothy T. Hall, of Neelyville, struck the rear of a vehicle that was stopped in traffic.

A passenger in Hall’s vehicle, four year old Rayeline A. Collins, was pronounced dead at the scene. Hall received serious injuries.

The driver of the second vehicle, 26 year old Summer D. Frazier, of Neelyville, as well as a passenger in Frazier’s car, five year old Jerimiah Byrler, also received serious injuries.

PERSON SHOT IN JONESBORO PARKING LOT

A person was reportedly shot Wednesday night in the parking of a Jonesboro restaurant.

According to authorities, the victim died from what is believed to have been an accidental shooting. He was reportedly in a truck with at least two other subjects when the shooting occurred.

KAIT is reporting that the victim was shot in the head. The name of the victim has not been released.

BODY FOUND NEAR RANDOLPH COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

A body was discovered Wednesday in Pocahontas.

According to Pocahontas authorities, the body was found beside the Randolph County Fairgrounds.

No information about the identity of the body is available; however the Arkansas State Police are investigating.

SIKESTON MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

A Sikeston man was taken into custody early Wednesday morning on meth charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the man was arrested in Scott County shortly before 2:30 am Wednesday. 42 year old Donald J. Smith is facing felony charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine paraphernalia, and possession of prescription medication.

POPLAR BLUFF PARENTS AS TEACHERS ACCEPTING ENROLLMENT

The Early Childhood Center in Poplar Bluff is currently accepting enrollment in the Parents as Teachers program.

Parents as Teachers is a parent education and family support program, serving parents throughout pregnancy until their child enters kindergarten, according to literature provided by the national center headquartered in St. Louis.

The program offers personal visits, group meetings, developmental screenings and a resource network.

There are no income guidelines or restrictions for families to participate. For more information, call 785-6477 or 785-6803.

THREE RIVERS AWARDED OVER TWO AND A HALF MILLION DOLLAR GRANT

Three Rivers College has been awarded over two and a half million dollars of grant money for improving workforce development education.

The $2.75 million grant will go towards developing comprehensive advanced manufacturing, advanced welding, and precision agriculture programs in Southeast Missouri.

The Department of Labor grant comes from the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training Grants Program, which provides funding to assist two-year higher educational institutions in creating job skills training programs targeted at area-specific needs.

BIGGEST LOSER TRAINER TO SPEAK IN CAPE GIRARDEAU

Personal trainer and Biggest Loser star, Jillian Michaels, will be speaking this month in Cape Girardeau.

The presentation, “An Evening with Jillian Michaels,” is a part of the Southeast Missouri State University Speakers Series. The show will start at 7:30 pm on September 30^th in the Show Me Center.

In addition to being a fitness coach and wellness expert for over 20 years, Michaels is also a bestselling author.

Tickets for the event are $10 dollars and are available at showmecenter.biz, as well as at the Show Me Center Box Office.

MISSOURI RANKED 42^ND IN HEALTH RANKINGS

A new report says Missouri has seen a steady decline in the health of its residents.

The report by the Missouri Hospital Association notes that the state fell from 24th in 1990 to 42nd last year in health rankings produced by the United Health Foundation.

The hospital association says average life expectancies in St. Louis and parts of southeast Missouri now are lower than in some parts of the world that are considered less developed, such as Vietnam, Honduras and Venezuela.

The hospital organization says improved access to insurance could help address the state's poor health status. A separate report from the U.S. Census Bureau says 16 percent of Missourians under age 65 were uninsured in 2011.

The hospital group has been pushing for Missouri to expand Medicaid eligibility.

FAILURE TO ENFORCE TOBACCO LAWS COULD COST MISSOURI 70 MILLION DOLLARS

Missouri officials expect the state will lose out on $70 million because of an arbitration case with tobacco companies.

The attorney general's office says a three-judge arbitration panel recently sided with more than 30 cigarette manufacturers' claims that Missouri failed to diligently enforce state tobacco laws in 2003. That was a requirement of the 1998 settlement between states and tobacco companies.

The money is to be deducted from a payment Missouri receives through a 1998 legal settlement with tobacco companies and states. Officials estimate Missouri will get $60 million this upcoming April instead of $130 million.

FARMERS WARNED ABOUT POSSIBLE TELEPHONE SCAM

Missouri agricultural officials are warning residents about an over the phone chemical sales scam offering a high-quality herbicide below store prices.

The state Department of Agriculture says the new scam involves a telephone solicitor who has been calling farmers, gardeners and homeowners across the state. The solicitor tries to sell the herbicide, which is billed as comparable to name-brand products.

The department suggests residents ask any person selling agricultural chemicals for a copy of the product label. Properly labeled products will be marked with an EPA registration number, list of active ingredients, number of feet or acres the product will cover and other information.

The department offers an online database in which consumers can search for products by company name, product name or EPA identification number.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091813

AUTHORITIES LOOKING FOR TWO ROBBERY SUSPECTS Jonesboro authorities are searching for two suspects in an alleged armed robbery.

According to authorities, the incident took place Monday night at Jordan’s Qwik Shop in Jonesboro. Two men entered the store and one of them reportedly pointed a gun at the clerk while the other took money.

The suspects then ran from the store. MAN FACING CHARGES FOR ALLEGEDLY SHOOTING OFFICER WITH AIR RIFLE

An East Prairie man is facing charges for allegedly shooting a sheriff’s deputy with an air rifle.

According to authorities, 25 year old Alex E. Rendon is facing charges of first degree assault on a law enforcement officer and second degree assault. On Saturday, Rendon allegedly shot a Mississippi County Sheriff’s Deputy in the abdomen while the deputy was arresting a woman.

The woman and another woman were arrested on hindering prosecution charges. FIVE IN DEXTER ARRESTED ON METH CHARGES

Four Stoddard County residents and a Poplar Bluff man have been arrested in Dexter on drug related charges.

Authorities say an investigation into illegal drug activity led officers to a South Sassafras home on Friday. They say members of the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol and Dexter Police Department were able to smell chemicals as they approached the house.

An occupant, 31 year old Joseph Lopez, of Dexter, answered the door and after seeing officers, grabbed a jar and attempted to dispose of the contents.

During a search of the home, investigators located seven grams of methamphetamine, marijuana, a set of digital scales and a methamphetamine lab. Lopez and four other adults were placed under arrest.

Lopez and 24 year old Casey W. Hernandez, of Dudley, have each been charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and attempt to manufacture a controlled substance.

24 year old Ashley D. Williams and 34 year old Trennis J. Talley, of Dexter; and 36 year old Steven Midciff, of Poplar Bluff, were also arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance. CAR FOUND IN THE DIVERSION CHANNEL OVER THE WEEKEND

Authorities in Cape Girardeau County are investigating after a car was found submerged in a diversion channel.

According to the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff’s Department, a 1997 Pontiac Firebird was found and later recovered on Sunday from the Diversion Channel. The vehicle was found east of the Missouri Conservation boat ramp south of Cape Girardeau.

An investigation into the vehicle has begun, however the Sheriff’s Department says the vehicle was reported stolen in 2002 from a Sikeston car lot. POPLAR BLUFF CHEERLEADERS TAKE STATE TITLE

The Poplar Bluff High School Cheerleaders were crowned state champions over the weekend.

The 20 cheerleaders placed first in the Class 4 Large division at the Missouri Cheerleading Coaches Association State Championship Competition on Sunday. The competition was held at the Hearnes Center in Columbia. CENTER STAGE TO PERFORM EGAD, WHAT A CAD

An old fashioned melodrama is coming to the Tinnin Fine Arts Center this month.

“Egad, What a Cad,” will be performed by Center Stage on September 27th, 28th, and 29th. Center Stage is Three Rivers College’s theater company.

“Egad, What a Cad,” chronicles the tale of Constance Hope, a beautiful young heroine haunted by a tragic past, and stalked by a black-hearted villain named Bertram Oleander. Saved in the nick of time by hero Manly Rash, the two must team up to foil Oleander’s dastardly plan once and for all.

The performances on the 27th and 28th will be at 7 pm, with the 29th being a matinee at 2:30. Tickets are $10, or $5 with a valid Three Rivers student ID.

Tickets are available at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce, the Financial Services office at Three Rivers’ Poplar Bluff Campus, online at trcc.edu/tinnin. Tickets will also be available at the door. CASTING FOR EXTRAS TO BE HELD THIS WEEKEND FOR FILM SHOOTING IN CAPE GIRARDEAU

The movie company filming "Gone Girl" in Cape Girardeau is looking for extras.

Shooting of the movie starring Ben Affleck will begin soon and officials with 20th Century Fox are making a casting call for men and women in their 30s and older.

Those interested in working as extras should attend 1 of 3 casting calls Thursday, Friday or Saturday in Cape Girardeau, or submit information online.

Thursday's casting call is 4 pm to 8 pm at Rose Theatre on the Southeast Missouri State University campus. On Friday it is 11 am to 5 pm at West Park Mall. The call on Saturday is 10 am to 3 pm at Rose Theatre. CURRENT RIVER STATE PARK TO HOLD OPEN HOUSE THIS WEEKEND

Current River State Park will be holding an open house meeting this weekend.

The meeting will take place at the park’s historic Alton Club Lodge on Saturday from noon until 2 pm. Open house activities include the opportunity to tour the historic property and recreational facilities. Tours will be available from 9 am to 4 pm.

Current River State Park is located 15 miles north of Eminence on Highway 19. STATE OFFICIALS TO BEGIN INVESTIGATION INTO PENSION ADVANCES

Missouri Treasurer Clint Zweifel is raising concerns about deals in which retirees are signing over future pension checks to get quick cash.

Zweifel says the deals typically involve an upfront, lump-sum payment to a person under a contract in which the business gets a portion of the person's future pension payments. The deals often carry consumer fees.

Attorney General Chris Koster said he plans to join Zweifel in an investigation of such practices.

Zweifel says he will work with lawmakers next year on a bill that would prohibit businesses from offering cash advances in exchange for a person's future public pension payments. The bill would cover state, city, fire, police and teacher pensions.

He says a federal law already prohibits such arrangements for military pensions. NUMBER OF JOBS IN MISSOURI IS UP, BUT SO IS THE UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

A new report says Missouri's unemployment rate edged higher last month while the state gained 6,200 payroll jobs.

The state Department of Economic Development said Tuesday the August jobless rate was 7.2 percent, up one-tenth of a percentage point from July.

The report says the biggest increase in jobs was in the government sector. It added 5,700 jobs - including 5,000 for local governments. The agency attributes the gains to the early start to the school year.

The education and health services sector added 1,800 jobs.

The largest losses were 2,300 jobs in trade, transportation and utilities, and 1,100 in professional and business services.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091713

ADDITIONAL VICTIMS SOUGHT IN CONNECTION TO DEXTER HIV CASE Police in southeast Missouri continue to reach out to additional potential victims after a man with HIV told them he has had sexual relations with up to 300 people in the past decade, including up to 60 in Missouri.

David Mangum, of Dexter, is charged with one count of recklessly infecting another person with HIV, and 21 counts of exposing two additional others to HIV. The 21 counts reflect the alleged number of sexual encounters Mangum had with those two men, neither of whom has developed HIV.

Dexter detective Cory Mills said Monday that he is reaching out to potential victims throughout southeast Missouri.

Mangum has pleaded not guilty and faces a preliminary hearing October 3rd. He is jailed without bond. LOCAL MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO PRODUCING CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

A Poplar Bluff man has reportedly pled guilty to producing child pornography.

62 year old David L. Cathey has pled guilty to two counts of producing child pornography, according to the Department of Justice.

Cathey allegedly admitted that over a period of several years, he took sexually explicit photographic images of two minor females. Both children were less than twelve years old when Cathey started taking the photographs.

Cathey stored some of the images on a compact disc, which he then left in a computer that he sold. Cathey is facing a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years imprisonment on each count and a possible $250,000 fine, as well as a life-time term of supervised release.

Sentencing was scheduled for December 16th. JONESBORO MAN FACING RAPE AND KIDNAPPING CHARGES

Police in Jonesboro have arrested an area man on rape and kidnapping charges.

According to authorities, Timothy Brinkley, of Jonesboro, is accused of kidnapping, beating, and raping his estranged wife. The man had allegedly kidnapped her by putting her in a vehicle and driving from her home. She had tried to escape from him at a gas station, but he was able to recapture her.

Brinkley also reportedly beat the victim and held a knife to her throat. ORAN MAN ARRESTED OVER THE WEEKEND AFTER MAKING GUN THREATS

An Oran man was arrested over the weekend after he allegedly threatened someone with a gun.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, his department responded to a call about a domestic disturbance. During an investigation of the incident, it was discovered that 25 year old Quentin Hanselman had unlawfully threatened someone with a handgun.

Hanselman has been taken into custody and charged with unlawful use of a weapon.

Sheriff Walter has asked that anyone with information about the incident, call 573-545-3525. MATTHEWS MAN MISSING FOLLOWING BOAT CRASH

Authorities are still searching for a Matthews man who has been missing since Sunday.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 27 year old Christopher A. Wescoat has been missing since the boat he was piloting struck an anchored barge in the Mississippi River.

A second person in the boat, 37 year old Ronald D. Pipkin, suffered moderate injuries and was taken to a Cape Girardeau hospital. CARUTHERSVILLE MAN SENTENCED TO OVER 17 YEARS ON COCAINE CHARGE

A Caruthersville man is facing over 17 years behind bars on a cocaine related charge.

According to the Department of Justice, 50 year old Dwayne Woods has been sentenced to 210 months imprisonment for conspiring to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine.

Woods reportedly supplied cocaine that was eventually sold on the street as crack cocaine. Woods was the seventeenth and final person sentenced for their roles in this case. OVER 150 BRIDGES FOUND DEFICIENT IN ARKANSAS

Twenty state-owned bridges that carry upward of 100,000 vehicles daily are among 156 Arkansas spans that inspectors consider both structurally deficient and at risk for a catastrophe should a key component fail. That's according to records in the National Bridge Inventory.

Most Arkansas bridges considered both deficient and "fracture critical" are on county roads that are less traveled. But eight are on significant federal highways and 11 are on Arkansas routes maintained by state transportation officials.

Arkansas highway officials say that listing a bridge as fracture critical doesn't automatically mean it is unsafe. The agency says each bridge in the state must be inspected every two years. The ones on federal list are inspected annually, except for one, which is checked every eight months. SCHOOL REGISTRATION OPEN FOR REGIONAL SPELLING BEE

Area schools can start registering for the Fifth Annual Southeast Missouri Regional Spelling Bee.

The spelling bee has been scheduled for March 8th, 2014, at Three Rivers College in Poplar Bluff.

Participating schools must complete their registration by October 15th and complete a school-wide spelling bee before February 7th, 2014, to participate.

The top three contestants from each qualifying school will be eligible to participate in the regional spelling bee, with the winner receiving an expenses-paid trip to compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.

For more information, contact Mark Sanders at 573-840-9618. GOOSENECK CAMPGROUND REOPENS THANKS TO VOLUNTEERS

A campground that was originally a victim of budget cuts has reopened thanks to volunteers.

The Gooseneck Campgrounds on Ozark National Scenic Riverways has been opened. The collaborative effort between local volunteers and the park will continue as long as there are funding shortfalls and as long as the public supports the volunteers in the campground maintenance.

Since there is no water, visitors will need to bring their own water when camping at Gooseneck and camping fees will not be charged. For more information, call (573) 323-4236. PAVEMENT REPAIRS THIS WEEK IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Highway 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane this week so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs

Highway 25 will be reduced between Route 153 and County Road 426.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday from 6:30 am to 4 pm each day. DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION ASKING FOR INPUT ON FOREST GUIDELINES

Missouri's Conservation Department is seeking public input on voluntary guidelines for managing forests.

The agency is developing the policies to help private land owners manage forest resources, and is aiming for guidelines that are understandable and practical. The proposal includes guidance on enhancing soil and water quality, wildlife habitat and forest health.

The guidelines are entirely voluntary.

Conservation officials are accepting public comments through November 15th.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091613

  AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR MISSING PERSON AFTER COLLISION ON MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Authorities in New Madrid County are searching for a missing person after a collision on the Mississippi River.

According to authorities, the incident occurred in New Madrid County when a barge was struck by a boat. Multiple organizations were participating in the search. MUSHROOMS AND LARGE AMOUNT OF MARIJUANA FOUND IN NEW MADRID COUNTY RESIDENCE

Two people were arrested Thursday in New Madrid County after authorities reportedly found mushrooms and marijuana in an area residence.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, deputies along with officers from the Marston Police Department executed a search warrant Thursday at a residence on Elm Street in Marston.

At the residence, authorities discovered a large amount of psilocybin mushrooms and marijuana in a safe. The residents, Katherine Cummins and Jason Davis were arrested and were being held pending formal charges. FARMER FINDS MARIJUANA GROWING IN HIS CORN FIELD

New Madrid County officials are investigating a report of marijuana found growing in a corn field.

According to the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department, a farmer contacted authorities saying he found possible marijuana growing in one of his fields. The plants were approximately 5 feet tall and were found about 30 feet into the corn field. They were seized by authorities and destroyed.

New Madrid County Sheriff Terry Stevens is asking anyone has any information about the incident to contact the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department. ALTERCATION LEADS TO SHOTS BEING FIRED IN PARAGOULD

One person was arrested Thursday night in Paragould after shots were fired.

According to the Paragould Police Department, two subjects had gotten into a verbal altercation that escalated to the point where one of them pulled a gun and fired shots. There were no injuries reported.

One of the subjects was arrested on charges of aggravated assault and terroristic threatening. The incident is under investigation. TWO FACING CHARGES FOLLOWING WAYNE COUNTY WRECK

Two people are facing charges following a wreck Saturday morning in Wayne County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Robert J. Seyer, of Wappapello, was driving on Route D when he ran off the road and hit a road sign and embankment. Seyer suffered moderate injuries in the wreck, but his passenger, 34 year old Terri M. Duncan, of Cape Girardeau, was seriously injured.

The Highway Patrol is reporting that both people have been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance. Seyer is facing additional charges of careless and imprudent driving and assault. BERNIE MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES

A Bernie man was taken into custody Sunday night on drug charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 36 year old Curtis W. Myers was arrested in Stoddard County on charges of possession of marijuana and felony possession of a controlled substance, lorazepam. GRANT ANNOUNCED FOR JONESBORO SEWER PROJECT

U.S. Senators Mark Pryor and John Boozman joined with Representative Rick Crawford to announce a federal grant to the city of Jonesboro for a sewer project.

The legislators said Friday that the $135,000 grant will be used to extend a city sewer line in southeast Jonesboro.

The three say the grant comes from the Economic Development Administration to help improve the infrastructure and attract new businesses to the area. MONTH AND A HALF LONG ROAD PROJECT TO BEGIN TODAY IN RIPLEY COUNTY

Highway 160 in Ripley County will be reduced to one lane starting today so contractor crews can resurface the roadway. During the repairs, a pilot car will be used for traffic control.

The section of Highway 160 to be reduced is located from Highway 142 to Route JJ.

Weather permitting; work will be performed through Friday, November 1st from 7 am to 4 pm daily. MISSOURI RANKED 3RD IN NUMBER OF BRIDGES IN POOR CONDITION

Missouri has made progress in improving its bridges in recent years. But the state still ranks near the top in the number of bridges that are in poor condition and lack structural redundancies to guard against collapse.

Federal figures show Missouri had 687 bridges that were both structurally deficient and "fracture critical," meaning they are designed in a way that could risk collapse if a single, vital component fails.

That ranked as the third largest number nationally behind only Iowa and Nebraska. And it was double the percentage of bridges nationally that were both structurally deficient and fracture critical.

The Missouri Department of Transportation says that list has been reduced by 47 bridges since it was submitted to the federal government last year. THIS WEEK IS NATIONAL CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY WEEK

Yesterday marked the beginning of National Child Passenger Safety Week.

The primary goal of this program is to remind all parents and other adults responsible for children traveling in motor vehicles of the importance of child safety seats and seat belts.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, last year 17 children under the age of eight were killed in traffic crashes, and another 1,743 were injured. LIABILITY BILLS COUNT FOR ALMOST A THIRD OF VETO OVERRIDES BY MISSOURI LEGISLATURE

Three of the 10 vetoes overridden last week by the Missouri Legislature dealt with bills restricting liability lawsuits.

One attempts to limit punitive damages in cases against The Doe Run Co. over contamination from old lead mining operations.

Another bars uninsured drivers from getting noneconomic damages in suits against insured drivers who cause accidents.

A third shields medical professionals who are volunteering their services from liability lawsuits.

The measures are the latest in a serious of liability limits passed by the Republican-led Legislature over the last decade. Lawmakers passed a comprehensive rewrite of liability laws in 2005 and also have granted protections for other specific industries.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091313

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091313 MAN IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO SIKESTON HOMICIDE

Police in Sikeston are investigating a Thursday morning shooting that left one woman dead.

Captain Jim McMillen with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety says officers responded to a domestic disturbance call around 3 am Thursday. When they arrived, they found 26 year old Nyketia Lott with a gunshot wound to the head.

The SEMO Major Case Squad was activated and approximately two hours later, investigators located Lott’s husband, 41 year old Stevie Lott, and took him into custody.

Stevie Lott has been charged with second degree murder, armed criminal action, felon in possession of a firearm, endangering the welfare of a child and leaving the scene of a shooting.

The incident is still under investigation.

AREA POLICE OFFICER INJURED DURING PURSUIT

A Steele police officer was injured Wednesday while in pursuit of a drug suspect.

According to the Steele Police Department, officer Logan Pritchett’s patrol car was struck on the driver’s side door at an intersection. The patrol car had its emergency equipment activated.

Officer Pritchett was taken to an area hospital with minor injuries. The driver of the vehicle that struck him also suffered minor injuries and is facing charges of driving while intoxicated and possession of a controlled substance.

LEOPOLD MAN SENTENCED ON DOMESTIC ASSAULT CHARGE

A Leopold man was in a Butler County courtroom yesterday after pleading guilty to domestic assault.

30 year old Robert J. Reynolds has been sentenced to four years in the Missouri Department of Corrections on a charge of second degree domestic assault. The charge stems from an incident in June of 2012.

The case was moved to Butler County from Bollinger County on a change of venue.

ST FRANCIS HEALTHCARE PURCHASES LAND IN DEXTER FOR OUTREACH HEALTHCARE FACILITY

St. Francis Healthcare System will be building an outreach healthcare facility in Dexter.

St. Francis announced yesterday the purchase of 18 acres of land at U.S. 60 Outer Road and Harris Drive that will be used for the facility. Current plans for the facility call for ambulatory services, primary care, rehabilitation therapies and wellness. Specific building plans will be revealed at a later date.

LISTENING POST MEETING TOUR TO STOP IN DEXTER

Staff members with United States Senator Roy Blunt will be stopping by Dexter next week to meet with local constituents.

A listening post meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, from 1 to 2 pm at the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission in Dexter.

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

CONGRESSMAN JASON SMITH TO OPEN OFFICE IN POPLAR BLUFF

United States Congressman Jason Smith will be in Poplar Bluff on Monday to celebrate the opening of his new office.

The office will be located at 2911 North Westwood Boulevard. Congressman Smith will be on hand to officially open the office and to meet with his constituents. An event will be held for the opening of the Poplar Bluff District Office from 10 to 11 am on Monday.

TODD RICHARDSON TO PUSH FOR AMENDMENT TO MISSOURI CONSTITUTION

A lawmaker plans to push for a Missouri constitutional amendment to limit the governor's power to cut the budget.

Governor Jay Nixon this year froze spending of $400 million while waiting to see if the Legislature would override his veto of a tax-cutting bill. On Thursday - one day after the veto was sustained - Nixon said he is releasing $215 million.

House Republican Todd Richardson, of Poplar Bluff, says Nixon froze the money to exert political pressure on lawmakers. Richardson says he believes governors are limited in their budget-cutting power to times of emergency or funding shortages. However, he said Nixon's actions have created uncertainty.

Missouri lawmakers return to the Capitol in January for the 2014 session. A constitutional amendment would require approval from voters.

MISSOURI LOSES TOBACCO ARBITRATION CASE

Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster says the state has lost an arbitration case and will refund money it receives through a multi-state settlement with tobacco companies.

The attorney general's office says it is reviewing the order to determine how much Missouri will need to refund. The funds will be deducted from a payment the cigarette manufacturers make this upcoming April.

A three-judge arbitration panel sided with more than 30 cigarette manufacturers' claims that Missouri and several other states had failed to diligently enforce state tobacco laws in 2003 as was required in a 1998 legal settlement with 46 states. The tobacco settlement agreement was reached in 1998.

Missouri's share of the tobacco settlement was about $150 million in 2003.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091213

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091213 MAN ADMITS TO ROBBING MULTIPLE BUSINESSES IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A man already in jail in connection to a bank robbery has reportedly admitting to robbing several other stores.

According to Jonesboro authorities, Justin Cobb has allegedly admitted to robbing multiple businesses starting last December and ending in January.

Cobb was already in custody in connection to the robbery of a bank in April. STEELE WOMAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG RELATED CHARGES

Authorities arrested a Steele woman late Tuesday night on multiple drug related charges.

43 year old Tammy J. Barnes was taken into custody at around 11 pm Tuesday in Pemiscot County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Barnes’ charges include possession of methamphetamine; possession of a controlled substance, xanax; possession of methamphetamine paraphernalia; and driving while intoxicate, drugs. DUNKLIN COUNTY BUSINESS ROBBED AT GUNPOINT

Authorities in Dunklin County are looking for three suspects who robbed a Cardwell business at gunpoint yesterday morning.

The Dunklin County Sheriff’s Department reports that three armed individuals entered the Flash Market Convenience Store shortly after 3 am.

The store clerk told officers that the three came into the building, jumped over the counter and grabbed the store’s cash register and a cash box, then fled the scene north on Highway F in a small gold automobile.

The clerk said the suspects were all dressed in dark colored clothes and were wearing masks. One was described as being a “Halloween” style mask.

Anyone with information about the incident is being asked to call the Dunklin County Sheriff’s Department at 573-888-2424. MAN RECEIVES 35 YEAR SENTENCE FOR ATTEMPTED CAPITAL MURDER

A Rector man has been sentenced for an attempted murder.

According to Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington, 29 year old Adam Hackworth was sentenced after pleading guilty to attempted capital murder charges.

Hackworth is facing two 35 year terms in the Arkansas Department of Corrections for each of the attempted capital murder charges.

The judge also ordered 20 years imprisonment for being a felon in possession of a firearm and another six years for the prohibited weapon, a sawed-off shotgun, which Hackworth allegedly used to shoot the male victim and beat the female victim.

The charges are in connection to a February incident in Rector. LISTENING POST MEETING SCHEDULED FOR SIKESTON

A listening post meeting has been scheduled for next week in Sikeston.

Listening Posts are meetings where citizens can share their questions and concerns with members of United States Senator Roy Blunt's staff.

The meeting will be held Wednesday, September 18th at Cole Insurance in Sikeston. The meeting will run from 3:30 to 4:30 pm. THREE RIVERS COLLEGE PLACED ON MILITARY FRIENDLY SCHOOL LIST

Three Rivers College has been chosen to be among the top schools for veterans.

The college was placed on the G.I. Jobs Military Friendly Schools list. The placement means the college is among the top 15 percent of institutions nationwide noted for offering high-value education and a welcoming environment for veterans.

The list is compiled by Victory Media based upon research and a data driven survey. PAVEMENT REPAIRS STARTING TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Motorists in Butler County should be expecting delays over the next few days on Highway 51.

Pavement repairs will force Highway 51 to be reduced to one lane between Highway 53 and Route B.

Work is scheduled to be done today through Tuesday, September 17th, from 8 am to 4 pm each day. OVERRIDE ATTEMPT OF MISSOURI GUN BILL FALLS ONE VOTE SHORT

Missouri lawmakers have failed to override a veto of a bill nullifying some federal gun control laws, after falling a single vote short in the Senate.

Senators voted 22 to 12 for the veto override Wednesday night, just shy of the required two-thirds majority. The override attempt had passed the House 109 to 49.

The legislation declared that any federal policies that "infringe on the people's right to keep and bear arms" shall be invalid in Missouri. It would allow state misdemeanor charges to be brought against federal authorities who attempt to enforce those laws or against anyone who publishes the identity of a gun owner.

Governor Jay Nixon said the bill could violate the U.S. Constitution's guarantee of free speech and its supremacy clause that gives precedence to federal laws over conflicting state ones. LAWMAKERS VOTE TO OVERRIDE VETO OF FARM BILL

Missouri lawmakers have voted to override Governor Jay Nixon's veto of an agriculture measure.

The legislation includes changes to Missouri's animal abuse and neglect law and a longer maximum prison sentence for stealing livestock. It also would replace a prohibition on foreign ownership of farmland with a 1 percent cap.

Nixon had objected to the provisions on foreign ownership and animal abuse and neglect.

The Senate voted 23 to 10 on Wednesday to override the veto. Later, the House voted 111 to 50 to override.

Proponents of the bill contend changes to the animal abuse and neglect law are needed and that tougher punishment for stealing livestock could help combat cattle rustling. VETO OF MISSOURI TAX CUTS UPHELD

The Missouri House has failed to override Governor Jay Nixon's veto of a bill cutting state income taxes.

The House voted 94 to 67 for the veto override. But that fell significantly short of the 109 votes needed, because several Republican lawmakers sided with the Democratic governor.

The legislation would have gradually cut income taxes for both businesses and individuals. Republican legislative leaders had touted the measure as an important means of competing for businesses against Kansas, Oklahoma and other states that recently cut income taxes.

But Nixon warned that the lost revenues could have jeopardized funding for education and other services. He also noted that an apparent drafting error would have imposed state sales taxes on prescription drugs.

Republican lawmakers likely will try again next year to cut taxes.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091113

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091113 TEXAS MAN ARRESTED IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI ON A HOMICIDE CHARGE

A Texas man was taken into custody yesterday evening in New Madrid Country on a homicide charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 38 year old Ruben Lopez-Torres, of Dallas, Texas, was arrested on a felony homicide charge.

Additional details about the arrest were not released. MULTIPLE ARRESTS MADE IN JONESBORO FORGERY INVESTIGATION

Five people have been taken into custody and more are being sought in a forgery investigation.

According to authorities, the investigation involved forged checks. Five people have been charged with first degree forgery, and authorities are searching for five others in connection to the case. CAPE MAN SERVING LIFE FOR MURDERS GETS COURT HEARING

A judge has ruled that a man seeking to have his convictions overturned for killing a pregnant Cape Girardeau woman and her son will get another day in court.

Ryan Patterson is serving three life sentences for the 2009 deaths of Jamie Orman, her unborn child and her 15-year-old son, Derrick.

He filed a motion in January to have his convictions overturned, set aside or vacated. Patterson argued that he was wrongfully convicted, citing problems with the evidence, witnesses, investigators and his attorney.

The Southeast Missourian reports Cape Girardeau Circuit Court Judge William Syler on Monday scheduled an October 28th bench trial on Patterson's motion.

Prosecutors say Patterson killed his victims in a failed effort to kill Orman's boyfriend and burn his home to collect insurance money. ORAN MAN FACING FELONY FIREARM AND DRUG CHARGES

An Oran man is facing felony firearms and drug related charges.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 27 year old Joshua Lee Rogers has been arrested on felony charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance.

Walter says that an investigation showed that Rogers was found to be unlawfully in the possession of a handgun, marijuana, another controlled substance, and drug paraphernalia.

Rogers also has charges pending out of another county in Missouri. FBI SEARCHING FOR SERIAL BANK ROBBER

The Federal Bureau of Investigations is asking for the public's help in tracking down a serial bank robber.

The FBI has dubbed the man the "I-55 Bandit." He is suspected of 10 robberies and attempts at two other banks since May, with some of the crimes occurring near Interstate 55.

In each case the man used a note and implied that he was armed, but no one was hurt. The FBI did not disclose the amount of money taken in the crimes.

Robberies have occurred in Missouri, Illinois, Maryland, West Virginia and Tennessee. The suspect is believed to be in his 20s, tall and thin with short brown or strawberry blond hair.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the FBI. AREA SCHOOL TEMPORARILY EVACUATED

Students were temporarily removed from Kelly High School yesterday after smoke was seen coming from the school’s gym.

The smoke was reportedly coming from an air conditioning unit that was on the roof of the gym. Firefighters were dispatched to the school and the kids were let back in for classes later in the day. LISTENING POST MEETING TO BE HELD NEXT WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Poplar Bluff next week for a listening post meeting.

The meeting will be held on Wednesday, September 18th, from 9 am to 10 am at the Mark Twain National Forest Service Office on Maud Street. Listening Posts are intended for Missourians to share their questions and concerns during meetings with members of the Senator’s staff. INTERSTATE REPAIRS TODAY IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY

Southbound Interstate 57 in Mississippi County will be reduced to one lane this morning so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can core drill on the roadway.

The work zone will be located between the Mississippi River Bridge and County Road 401.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7:30 am to 11:30 am. NEW STUDY SAYS MISSOURIANS MORE WORRIED ABOUT NOT HAVING ENOUGH FOOD

A report from the University of Missouri says the number of people worrying about not having enough food is on the rise.

The university's latest Missouri Hunger Atlas says an average of 16 percent of Missouri households experienced "food insecurity" from 2009 through 2011, meaning they were concerned about not having enough food.

That's up from an average of 8.6 percent from 1999 to 2001.

Sandy Rikoon directs the university's Interdisciplinary Center for Food Security in Columbia. She says deeper food insecurity rates in Missouri's inner cities and rural areas are comparable to national trends.

A decade ago, 2.3 percent of Missouri's population was classified as "food insecure with hunger." The new report says that figure has tripled to 6.7 percent.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091013

RIVER RADIO NEWS 091013  

KENNETT MAN ARRESTED IN ALLEGED CHURCH BURGLARY

A Kennett man was taken into custody last Friday after witnesses allegedly detained him in the middle of a burglary.

The Kennett Police Department tells us that 20 year old Khadree Hollywood was arrested after being caught by witnesses during an alleged burglary at a Kennett church. Hollywood was reportedly arrested for second degree burglary, as well as an outstanding Dunklin County warrant.

NAME RELEASED OF SUSPECT ARRESTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU FOR ALLEGED ABDUCTION

Authorities have released the name of a suspect who was arrested in Cape Girardeau on Friday in connection to the alleged abduction of a 13 year old girl in Illinois.

According to the Champaign, Illinois Police Department, 21 year old Nicholas Hurley, of Daleville, Indiana, was taken into custody by Cape Girardeau Police when he spotted walking out of an area business with a missing Champaign teenager.

Hurley was arrested without incident. The teenager was reported safe and unharmed.

AREA NONPROFITS INVITED TO APPLY FOR GRANT FROM GIVING CIRCLE

Local nonprofit organizations who need help funding their projects may receive assistance from the Poplar Bluff Regional Giving Circle.

The Giving Circle is currently accepting grant applications from area nonprofits. Applications must be for specific projects.  No awards will be given to cover overhead or operational expenses.

This is the final week for applications to be accepted. A copy of the grant application can be found online at kwoc.com or can be picked up at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce at the intersection of Pine Street and Highway 67.

Completed applications can be turned in at the offices of River Radio, 1015 West Pine Street or at Poplar Bluff Federal Credit Union in Poplar Bluff.

The Poplar Bluff Regional Giving Circle is a 501c3 organization dedicated to raising and providing annual grants to local charities and aid organizations.

SOBRIETY CHECKPOINT TO BE HELD THIS MONTH IN DEXTER

Dexter authorities are planning to hold a sobriety checkpoint soon.

According to Dexter Police Chief Sammy Stone, the Dexter Police Department will be conducting a sobriety checkpoint sometime this month. The checkpoint will be located within the Dexter city limits.

HAUNTING IN THE HILLS SCHEDULED FOR NEXT MONTH

The Ozark Heritage Project, in partnership with Ozark National Scenic Riverways, will be presenting Haunting in the Hills next month.

The free event will be held October 12^th and 13^th at Ozark National Scenic Riverways. There will be musical performances and crafts, as well as many other attractions and vendors.

This year’s Haunting in the Hills had originally been cancelled due to budget cuts, before being picked up by the Heritage Project. For more information go online to www.ozark heritage project.org.

TEACHER’S TENURE TO BE DISCUSSED TODAY AT MISSOURI CAPITOL

Missouri lawmakers plan to focus on teacher tenure this week.

The Legislature's Joint Committee on Education has scheduled a hearing on the issue today at the Capitol.

Missouri teachers generally receive tenure after working in a district for five years. But lawmakers have been debating revisions in the system for the past several years.

Critics contend that the process of firing teachers in Missouri is too expensive and too cumbersome. Supporters of tenure argue it allows teachers to become advocates for their students. They say significant changes could prompt good teachers to leave Missouri.

STATE OFFICIALS URGING MISSOURIANS TO REGISTER TO VOTE

With many local elections less than two months away, the Missouri Secretary of State is urging all Missourians to make sure they are registered to vote.

According to Secretary of State Jason Kander, the deadline for Missourians to register to vote or make registration changes in time for the November election is October 9^th. Voting information, including registration materials, is available online at www.GoVoteMissouri.com.

Elections are scheduled for November 5^th.

AUDITOR SAYS MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE BROKE STATE LAW

Missouri Auditor Tom Schweich says officials violated state law by requiring driver's license clerks to make electronic copies of applicants' personal documents.

Schweich released an analysis Monday concluding the Department of Revenue broke state law by implementing the policy last December without publishing a formal rule change.

That policy ended in July as a result of a bill passed by the Legislature and signed by the governor. But Schweich had been asked in April by senators to look into the policy.

RIVER RADIO 091013

RIVER RADIO NEWS 081013  

KENNETT MAN ARRESTED IN ALLEGED CHURCH BURGLARY

A Kennett man was taken into custody last Friday after witnesses allegedly detained him in the middle of a burglary.

The Kennett Police Department tells us that 20 year old Khadree Hollywood was arrested after being caught by witnesses during an alleged burglary at a Kennett church. Hollywood was reportedly arrested for second degree burglary, as well as an outstanding Dunklin County warrant.

NAME RELEASED OF SUSPECT ARRESTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU FOR ALLEGED ABDUCTION

Authorities have released the name of a suspect who was arrested in Cape Girardeau on Friday in connection to the alleged abduction of a 13 year old girl in Illinois.

According to the Champaign, Illinois Police Department, 21 year old Nicholas Hurley, of Daleville, Indiana, was taken into custody by Cape Girardeau Police when he spotted walking out of an area business with a missing Champaign teenager.

Hurley was arrested without incident. The teenager was reported safe and unharmed.

AREA NONPROFITS INVITED TO APPLY FOR GRANT FROM GIVING CIRCLE

Local nonprofit organizations who need help funding their projects may receive assistance from the Poplar Bluff Regional Giving Circle.

The Giving Circle is currently accepting grant applications from area nonprofits. Applications must be for specific projects.  No awards will be given to cover overhead or operational expenses.

This is the final week for applications to be accepted. A copy of the grant application can be found online at kwoc.com or can be picked up at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce at the intersection of Pine Street and Highway 67.

Completed applications can be turned in at the offices of River Radio, 1015 West Pine Street or at Poplar Bluff Federal Credit Union in Poplar Bluff.

The Poplar Bluff Regional Giving Circle is a 501c3 organization dedicated to raising and providing annual grants to local charities and aid organizations.

SOBRIETY CHECKPOINT TO BE HELD THIS MONTH IN DEXTER

Dexter authorities are planning to hold a sobriety checkpoint soon.

According to Dexter Police Chief Sammy Stone, the Dexter Police Department will be conducting a sobriety checkpoint sometime this month. The checkpoint will be located within the Dexter city limits.

HAUNTING IN THE HILLS SCHEDULED FOR NEXT MONTH

The Ozark Heritage Project, in partnership with Ozark National Scenic Riverways, will be presenting Haunting in the Hills next month.

The free event will be held October 12^th and 13^th at Ozark National Scenic Riverways. There will be musical performances and crafts, as well as many other attractions and vendors.

This year’s Haunting in the Hills had originally been cancelled due to budget cuts, before being picked up by the Heritage Project. For more information go online to www.ozark heritage project.org.

TEACHER’S TENURE TO BE DISCUSSED TODAY AT MISSOURI CAPITOL

Missouri lawmakers plan to focus on teacher tenure this week.

The Legislature's Joint Committee on Education has scheduled a hearing on the issue today at the Capitol.

Missouri teachers generally receive tenure after working in a district for five years. But lawmakers have been debating revisions in the system for the past several years.

Critics contend that the process of firing teachers in Missouri is too expensive and too cumbersome. Supporters of tenure argue it allows teachers to become advocates for their students. They say significant changes could prompt good teachers to leave Missouri.

STATE OFFICIALS URGING MISSOURIANS TO REGISTER TO VOTE

With many local elections less than two months away, the Missouri Secretary of State is urging all Missourians to make sure they are registered to vote.

According to Secretary of State Jason Kander, the deadline for Missourians to register to vote or make registration changes in time for the November election is October 9^th. Voting information, including registration materials, is available online at www.GoVoteMissouri.com.

Elections are scheduled for November 5^th.

AUDITOR SAYS MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE BROKE STATE LAW

Missouri Auditor Tom Schweich says officials violated state law by requiring driver's license clerks to make electronic copies of applicants' personal documents.

Schweich released an analysis Monday concluding the Department of Revenue broke state law by implementing the policy last December without publishing a formal rule change.

That policy ended in July as a result of a bill passed by the Legislature and signed by the governor. But Schweich had been asked in April by senators to look into the policy.

RIVER RADIO NEWS 090913

RIVER RADIO NEWS 090913

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING NORTHEAST ARKANSAS SHOOTING
Authorities are investigating a weekend shooting in Rector, Arkansas that resulted in the death of one man.

Authorities say 37 year old Shane Keith Avery died from an apparent gunshot wound. Police received reports of a shooting shortly after 3 pm on Sunday.

No arrest have been made in connection to the case, however a 54 year old man has been questioned.

TWO MORE FACING CHARGES IN CONNECTION TO CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN’S DEATH

Two more people have been charged in connection with the killing of a Cape Girardeau tattoo artist whose remains were found this summer in a septic tank.

42 year old Brent Tyler Bouren, of St. Louis, was charged Friday with second degree murder in the death of Samuel Francis. Also Friday, 43 year old Otto Plopper, of French Village, was charged with felony of abandonment of a corpse.

A third man, Melvin Scherrer, was charged last month in Francis' killing. Online court records show that neither Bouren, nor Plopper has an attorney. Scherrer's attorney declined to comment.

The probable cause statement says witnesses reported that Bouren watched and participated in a baseball bat attack on the tattoo artist.

The Daily Journal newspaper reports that Plopper admitted to helping dispose of Francis' body.

DROWNING REPORTED AT SIKESTON LAKE

One person drowned while swimming last night in Sikeston.

According to the Highway Patrol, Brandon M. Brummett, of Sikeston, was swimming at Complex Lake when he submerged and never resurfaced. He was later pronounced dead at the scene.

PAIR KILLED WHEN VEHICLE HITS A TREE IN STODDARD COUNTY

Two Puxico residents were involved in a fatal wreck Saturday night in Stoddard County.

According to authorities, 33 year old Brandy L. Beal and 38 year old Keith O. Beal were pronounced dead at the scene of the wreck off of Route BB.

Brandy Beal had reportedly run off the road and hit a tree shortly before 10 pm Saturday night.

BENTON MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A single vehicle wreck in Scott County has claimed the life of a Benton man.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 35 year old Jeremy N. Reeves was killed in the wreck Sunday evening around three miles north of Benton.

Reeves was ejected from the vehicle after it ran off the road and overturned. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

ONE KILLED, TWO INJURED IN ARKANSAS WRECK

One person has died, while two others have been injured in connection to a wreck in Jackson County, Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, Tiffany Lee Duty, of Jonesboro, was traveling on Highway 67 when she lost control of the vehicle she was driving and overturned.

One of Duty’s passengers, 24 year old Jeremy Lee Bayles, of Imboden, was killed in the wreck. Duty and a one year old passenger suffered undisclosed injuries.

MORE CHARGES FILED IN CONNECTION TO MAN WHO IS ACCUSED OF SPREADING HIV

Authorities in Stoddard County have issued an amended complaint for the Dexter man who says he had sexual contact with as many 300 people since being diagnosed with HIV.

According to Stoddard County Prosecuting Attorney Russell Oliver, David Mangum has now been charged with 21 counts of recklessly risking infection of another with HIV.

SUSPECT ARRESTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU IN CONNECTION TO ALLEGED ABDUCTION

Cape Girardeau police arrested a suspect Friday in connection to an alleged abduction in Illinois.

According to Patrolman Darin Hickey, officers received information Friday that a suspect in an abduction case could be in Cape Girardeau. The suspect and the missing juvenile were found at an area business and the suspect was taken into custody without incident.

An amber alert had been issued for the juvenile. The name of the suspect was not released.

VAN COLLIDES WITH HORSE IN SHANNON COUNTY AND INJURES FIVE PEOPLE

Five people suffered minor injuries Saturday when a van overturned after hitting a horse.

The incident happened Saturday evening in Shannon County. According to the Highway Patrol, a van driven by Robert J. Brunk, of Ellington, hit a horse on Highway 60 at Montier. The van then overturned. Brunk, along with four passengers in his vehicle, suffered minor injuries.

AMBULANCE WRECK IN WAYNE COUNTY RESULTS IN TWO INJURIES

An ambulance wreck in Wayne County over the weekend resulted in two injuries.

According to authorities, the ambulance ran off of Highway 67 Saturday night and hit an embankment. 34 year old Michael Irions and 73 year old Harry Shearrer, both of Patterson, each suffered moderate injuries.

ALMOST 100 PARTICIPATE IN TOUR DE BLUFF

Almost 100 bike riders took to the streets of Poplar Bluff Saturday as part of the Kiwanis Tour de Bluff.

Kiwanian and Chamber President Steve Halter says adult riders from Missouri and Arkansas participated on a 50, 62 or 100 mile route, while children rode several paths through at Bacon and Hendrickson Parks.

Halter says the event raised approximately $7000. He says the money will be used to build a new pavilion at Bacon Park, in honor of Kiwanian Kent Nichols.

Some of the top fund raisers for the event include Miranda Fickert, Steve Whitworth, Kenny Rowland, Bill Dees and Kathy Brittingham.

ROUTE HH TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK IN BUTLER COUNTY

Pavement repairs will cause delays this week on Route HH in Butler County.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route HH will be reduced to one lane daily through Thursday, from 7 am to 4 pm each day.

The work zone will be located from County Road 350 to Highway 142.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS THIS WEEK IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Highway 25 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs

Highway 25 will be reduced between Highway 153 and Marsh Street.

Weather permitting; work will take place today through Thursday from 6:30 am to 4 pm daily.

18 COUNTIES APPROVED FOR DISASTER DECLARATION

President Barack Obama has signed a major disaster declaration for 18 Missouri counties hit hard by last month's floods.

The floods that resulted from nearly two weeks of heavy rain caused widespread damage across the southern tier of the state and left at least three people dead.

The White House said in a news release that federal funding is available to help local governments and nonprofits recover. Shannon County was among the 18 counties included in the declaration.

Federal funding is also available for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

72 PEOPLE REMOVED FROM MISSOURI SEX OFFENDER REGISTRY

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says 72 people have successfully petitioned to be removed from the state's sex offender registry under the provisions of a 2009 law.

The law lets people who were 19 or younger at the time of their offenses ask to be taken off the registry if their victims were at least 13 years old and the sexual offense did not involve force. Decisions on whether to remove people from the list are made by judges.

On Wednesday, lawmakers will consider whether to override Gov. Jay Nixon's veto of a bill that would remove hundreds of additional people from the state's online sex offender list. That bill would automatically remove juvenile offenders from the website and allow them to eventually seek removal from law enforcement lists.
 

RIVER RADIO NEWS 090613

RIVER RADIO NEWS 090613

MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Willow Springs man was involved in a fatal wreck Wednesday night in Howell County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 64 year old Myron W. Shackelford was driving on Highway 137 near Willow Springs, when he ran off the Highway and struck several trees.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

MAGNUM PLEADS NOT GUILTY

A Missouri man who says he had sexual contact with as many 300 people since being diagnosed with HIV has pleaded not guilty to infecting another man with the virus.

David Mangum entered the plea Thursday. Stoddard County prosecutor Russell Oliver says more potential victims have come forward since Mangum was charged last week with recklessly infecting another with HIV, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Oliver says additional charges are expected.

BURGLARS GRAB $75,000 WATCH FROM JONESBORO HOME

An investigation is ongoing in Jonesboro into a home burglary in which a very expensive watch was taken.

According to KAIT, the victim told authorities that she had returned home and noticed her back sliding glass door was open. She discovered several things were missing including several pieces of jewelry, two guns and a $75,000 watch.

The incident allegedly occurred Wednesday afternoon.

ILLINOIS MAN ARRESTED IN CAPE GIRARDEAU COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES

An Illinois man is facing multiple drug charges following his arrest Wednesday night in Cape Girardeau County.

41 year old Mark E. Brazel, from McClure, Illinois, was taken into custody shortly after 9 pm Wednesday. According to authorities, Brazel is charged with possession of a controlled substance, hydrocodone; possession of marijuana; and possession of drug paraphernalia.

JONESBORO APARTMENT BUILDING ALLEGEDLY HIT BY VANDALS

An unoccupied Jonesboro apartment reportedly suffered around $30,000 worth of damage due to vandals.

According to authorities, the apartment owner found the building flooded Wednesday morning. A bathtub and sinks had been plugged with their water turned on.

Two cigarette butts were found at the apartment.

CHARTWELLS INVESTS $100,000 FOR NEW PBHS CAFETERIA

The Poplar Bluff High School cafeteria is looking a little different this year.

Chartwells School Dining Services invested $100,000 to transform the school’s student center into the company’s flagship cafeteria in the region.

Changes include the reconfiguration of the serving area for improved flow and enhanced food display, the addition of the Casa Amigos station featuring Mexican menu items, better lighting and a new paint scheme.

The renovation was included in Chartwell’s bid proposal that was approved by the Board of Education in March.

TRANS SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA TO PERFORM IN ST. LOUIS

The Trans Siberian Orchestra will be returning to St. Louis this Christmas.

The band will be performing their multi-platinum rock opera, "The Lost Christmas Eve,” on Monday, December 23rd at the Scotttrade Center.

There will be two performances, the first at 3 pm and the second at 7:30 pm. Tickets for both shows go on sale Friday, September 13th at 10:00am. Tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com.

NEW KIND OF FRUIT FLY CAUSING HAVOC IN MISSOURI

A new kind of fruit fly is causing problems for some Missouri farmers.

The University of Missouri says that the spotted wing drosophila has made its way to Missouri this summer and could be particularly troublesome.

University entomologist Bruce Barrett says the female flies have serrated body parts that allow them to cut through the skin of fruit and insert their eggs inside. The developing maggots then eat the fruit.

Barrett says those cuts can open the way for fungus, bacteria and molds to grow in the fruit.

He says the fruit flies can cause significant economic damage, especially for those with small orchards.

AMEREN CUSTOMERS COULD SOON BE SEEING REDUCED BILLS

Missouri regulators have adopted a lower fuel adjustment tariff that should reduce bills for Ameren Missouri's electric customers.

The Public Service Commission says the decrease amounts to about $1.97 per month for residential customers. It takes effect September 24th.

The fuel adjustment charge allows power companies to recover most of their fuel costs. Charges appear in a separate category on customer bills. The charge helps utilities address volatility in fuel pricing.