RIVER RADIO NEWS, FEBRUARY 3RD, 2014

SNOWY SUNDAY CAUSES TREACHEROUS ROAD CONDITIONS

It was a snowy Sunday in Southeast Missouri.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, snow, sleet, and freezing rain left many roads in Southern Missouri covered or partly covered.

Crews were out plowing roads overnight.

According to the National Weather Service, as of 9:20 pm last night, 4.1 inches of snow was reported Northwest of Poplar Bluff. In Stoddard County 6 inches of snow was reported in Dudley at 9:11 pm and 5 inches was reported in Bernie at 9:51 pm.

PARAGOULD MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO RAPE OF TWO MINORS

A Paragould man has reportedly pled guilty to the rape of two minor females.

According to Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington, 33 year old Edward Howerton has pled guilty for the rape of two girls, both under the age of 13.

Howerton was arrested in 2012 following a joint investigation by the Arkansas State Police Crimes Against Children Division and the Paragould Police Department. He was sentenced to two 30 year terms in the Arkansas Department of Corrections, to be served concurrently.

MICRO EARTHQUAKE RECORDED NEAR NEW MADRID

A micro earthquake was reported Friday morning near New Madrid.

According to the Center for Earthquake Research and Information, a 2.5 magnitude earthquake was recorded 7 miles south southwest of New Madrid and 9 miles east northeast of Portageville.

The earthquake occurred at 6:12 am Friday.

CAPE GIRARDEAU MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE

A Cape Girardeau man was taken into custody Friday afternoon on a drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 40 year old William A. Jackson was arrested in Cape Girardeau County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – cocaine.

Jackson was arrested shortly before 5 pm Friday afternoon.

FIRE DAMAGES KENNETT BUSINESS

A fire struck a Kennett business over the weekend.

The Plaza Tire Service building in Kennett caught on fire Saturday morning, according to KFVS.

The building is being considered by the owners to be a total loss. A cause for the fire is under investigation by the state fire marshal.

KINDERGARTEN CENTER BALLOON DISCOVERED IN KENTUCKY

A balloon released by a student of the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center as part of Red Ribbon Week traveled over 350 miles northeast, all the way to Frankfort, Kentucky.

Nathan Wells discovered the remains of the balloon in the Capitol city of Kentucky. Wells initially thought the long red string and deflated balloon was trash, until he noticed the attached note, which listed the Kindergarten Center address and teacher Tonya Hill’s name.

Hill used a map to help the kids understand the distance the balloon traveled. She says the children were very excited that one of their balloons was found.

DATE SET FOR SPECIAL ELECTION TO FILL TWO VACANT MISSOURI HOUSE SEATS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Governor Jay Nixon has set an August 5th special election to fill three vacant Missouri House seats.

Nixon announced the House election dates Friday.

The 120th House District has been vacant since Republican Jason Smith, of Salem, resigned in June upon winning a special election to Congress.

The two other House seats opened up in December. Democratic Representative Steve Webb, of Florissant, resigned while facing criminal charges. Republican Representative Dennis Fowler, of Advance, resigned when Nixon appointed him to the state Board of Probation and Parole.

The special election announcements come as Nixon is facing a lawsuit seeking to compel him to call the elections.

LEGISLATION INTRODUCED CONCERNING SENTENCES FOR JUVENILES PREVIOUSLY GIVEN LIFE SENTENCES WITHOUT PAROLE

More than 80 Missourians are serving sentences of life without parole that the U.S. Supreme Court says are unconstitutional because they were juveniles at the time of their crime.

A Missouri state senator has introduced legislation that would allow those 83 people convicted of first-degree murder to receive a new sentencing hearing.

The measure would allow those older than 16 to serve life without parole or a 50-year minimum sentence. Offenders younger than 16 could also spend their lives behind bars or be eligible for parole after 35 years.

In 2012, the high court said states can't automatically impose life without parole sentences for juveniles. It said states must account for differences between juveniles and adults when sentencing them for murder.

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JONESBORO POLICE OFFICER FOUND JUSTIFIED IN SHOOTING OF MAN ON JANUARY 9^TH

A Jonesboro law enforcement officer has been found justified in his shooting and killing of a Keiser man earlier this month.

According to Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington, Jonesboro Police Corporal John Eidson was justified in shooting and killing 35 year old Michael Ware on January 9^th.

Ware had reportedly opened fire on Eidson at a Jonesboro mobile home park causing Eidson to return fire.

GIDEON MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGE

A Gideon man was taken into custody Thursday night on DWI and drug charges.

According to an arrest report from the Highway Patrol, 43 year old James A. Bowler was arrested in New Madrid County late Thursday night.

Bowler has been charged with felony possession of a controlled substance, prescription medication; and felony driving while intoxicated, drugs and alcohol.

HOWARDVILLE MAN FACING MULTIPLE FELONY CHARGES

A man was taken into custody last night in New Madrid County on multiple felony charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 35 year old Marquis L. Pratcher, of Howardville, is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; possession of drug paraphernalia; and tampering with physical evidence.

RAID LEADS TO ARREST OF TWO IN LAWRENCE COUNTY

Two men have been arrested following the raid of a house in Northeast Arkansas by multiple law enforcement agencies.

According to authorities, cash, weapons, paraphernalia, and almost 80 grams of meth were reportedly found during the raid Tuesday in Walnut Ridge.

60 year old Stephen Williams and 23 year old Ryun Blansett were each arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

INDEPENDENCE COUNTY WOMAN ARRESTED FOR POSING AS A SCHOOL NURSE

Federal prosecutors say a woman wanted for posing as a nurse at a Searcy elementary school has been arrested and will face a seven-count indictment.

Authorities learned in July 2012 that Susan Elaine Boyce, of Pleasant Plains, Arkansas, who had worked as a nurse at Sidney Deener Elementary School, did not have a nursing license.

The 59-year-old Boyce faces a variety of charges, including wire fraud, aggravated identity theft and misuse of a Social Security number.

TEENAGER ARRESTED FOR ALLEGEDLY MAKING FALSE ACCUSATION

An East Prairie teenager has been charged with making a false report.

According to a report from KFVS, 19 year old Todd Michael Achter allegedly confessed to his involvement in a 2011 burglary where two four wheelers were stolen. Achter also reportedly implicated an individual from New Madrid in the crime.

The individual was charged as an accessory, however further investigations later cleared the man.

POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL THEATER DEPARTMENT HONORED

Poplar Bluff High School Thespian Troupe No. 4379 was among 32 schools in the state to receive the Honor Troupe Award at the Missouri State Thespian Conference that took place in St. Louis earlier this month.

Criteria included participation at conferences, state and local involvement, and community service.

The International Thespian Society is an honor organization for students in acting and technical theater. Drama teacher Jo Nell Seifert founded the PBHS chapter in 1989.

CHORAL SYMPHONIC CONCERT COMING TO THREE RIVERS

Three Rivers College will feature a Choral Symphonic concert next week.

The Three Rivers College Music Department will perform a free concert on Monday, February 4^th at 7 pm. The concert will be held in the Tinnin Fine Arts Center with performances by the Collegiate Choir, the Swingsations, and the Three Rivers Symphonic Band.

This performance is a rescheduling of a concert planned for last December, which was cancelled due to inclement weather.

ST. LOUIS ZOO OPENS NEW WEBCAM FOR PENGUIN EXHIBIT

Fans of the penguins and puffins at the St. Louis Zoo can now watch them through a live webcam.

The zoo says that live streaming video will be posted from 9 am to 5 pm daily at www.stlzoo.org/PenguinCam. After 5 p.m., previously recorded footage will be shown.

The zoo's Penguin & Puffin Coast is closed to the public during construction of the McDonnell Polar Bear Point next door, expected to open next year.

INITIAL APPROVAL GIVEN BILL THAT LIMITS POWER OF MISSOURI GOVERNOR

Missouri senators have given first-round approval to legislation aimed at curbing the governor's executive powers to call special elections and fill positions in state government.

The Republican-controlled chamber began pushing for the legislation over concerns that Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon was trying to circumvent the Senate confirmation process.

Currently, two state agencies are led by temporary leaders. Permanent department directors chosen by the governor require Senate confirmation while acting leaders don't.

The legislation would also force the governor to call a special election to fill vacant House and Senate seats within 30 days of a vacancy. There are four vacant seats currently in the Legislature.

The measure needs one more vote before moving to the House. It was the first bill debated by the Senate this year.

RIVER RADIO NEWS JANUARY 30, 2014

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POPLAR BLUFF MAN FACING ROBBERY CHARGES

A Poplar Bluff man has been charged with second degree robbery in connection to an armed robbery complaint.

According to the Poplar Bluff Police Department, on January 23^rd, 27 year old Ryan McVaugh reportedly entered the American Computer Center/Internet Café on North Westwood Boulevard, flourished a handgun, and removed approximately $700 cash from the register before fleeing the scene.

McVaugh was taken into custody following a foot pursuit on January 24^th. He is being held on charges of second degree robbery and resisting arrest.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ACCUSED OF ABUSING YOUNG GIRL

Sodomy charges have been filed against a local man.

According to the Daily American Republic, a complaint alleges that 31 year old Bruce Wayne Ross, of Poplar Bluff, had deviate sexual intercourse with a girl less than 12 years old in December.

Ross reportedly admitted to the allegations to authorities. He has been charged with first degree statutory sodomy.

MAN FACING UP TO 15 YEARS IN PRISON AFTER CONVICTION ON MOLESTATION CHARGE

A man faces up to 15 years in prison following his conviction in Cape Girardeau yesterday on a molestation charge.

37 year old Nicholas Goetz was found guilty of first degree molestation. The incident reportedly involved an 8 year old child.

Goetz’s sentencing is scheduled for February 24^th.

TWO TAKEN INTO CUSTODY AFTER POLICE RECOVER STOLEN HANDGUN

Two men have been taken into custody following a reported car break in where property, including a gun, was taken.

Steele Chief of Police Billy Joe Stanfield, tells us that police received a report on January 28^th of a vehicle that had been broken in to. A handgun and iPad were reportedly taken from the vehicle.

An officer later confronted two men who were found in possession of the stolen property. Both suspects, whose names have not been released, are charged with felony tampering with a motor vehicle, felony stealing and unlawful use of weapon.

TWO IOWA RESIDENTS CHARGED IN STEELE CAR WASH BURGLARY

Two Iowa residents have been charged following an alleged burglary at a Steele car wash.

According to the Steele Police Department, 32 year old Bryan Williams and 36 year old Jeremy Scheper were charged with felony second degree burglary following the incident on January 27^th.

Further details about the alleged burglary have not been made available.

MAN CHARGED IN WEEKEND SHOOTING IN CAPE GIRARDEAU

One man has been charged in connection to a shooting incident at the Arena Building in Cape Girardeau this past weekend.

According to authorities, Deontae L. Petty is charged with armed criminal action and two counts of first degree assault. Petty has not been taken into custody.

According to Patrolman Darin Hickey with the Cape Girardeau Police Department, one of the victims was shot in the leg and has been released from the hospital, while another was shot in the chest and is in good condition.

STEELE MAN ACCUSED OF PASSING COUNTERFEIT MONEY

A Steele resident is facing charges after he allegedly passed counterfeit money at area businesses.

According to Steele Police Chief, Billy Joe Stanfield, police received reports from two businesses on January 27^th of a man passing counterfeit bills. An investigation followed which resulted in the arrest of 73 year old Edmond Hatley.

Hatley reportedly had more counterfeit bills on him at the time of the arrest. A warrant was issued charging Hatley with three felony counts of forgery.

WINONA MAN FACING DRUG CHARGES FOLLOWING ARREST IN SHANNON COUNTY

A Winona man was arrested Wednesday night on a drug charge.

According to the Highway Patrol, 37 year old Clinton D. Barnes is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Barnes was arrested in Shannon County at 9 pm Wednesday.

TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER ISSUED AGAINST BUTLER COUNTY TRASH HAULER

Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster has obtained a temporary restraining order against a Butler County trash hauler in order to prevent further violations of Missouri's Solid Waste Management Law.

The restraining order is against Michael Nichols and Nichols Disposal L.L.C..

According to the Attorney General's allegations, Nichols operates a trash-hauling business that collects solid waste from households and businesses.

Koster's office alleges that Nichols and his company illegally buried the trash they collected or left it in piles and containers spread across a tract of land Nichols owns, posing a threat to groundwater.

A court hearing has been set for February 5^th.

HOUSE COMMITTEE ENDORSES EXTENDED WAITING PERIOD FOR ABORTIONS

Missouri women would have to wait 72 hours to have an abortion after initially seeing a doctor under legislation endorsed by a state House committee.

The bill endorsed by the House Health Care Policy Committee on Wednesday would align Missouri with Utah and South Dakota as the only states with 3-day waiting periods.

Missouri's current waiting period is 24 hours. Supporters of the bill say a woman needs more time to make such a substantive decision. Opponents argue extending the waiting period poses a logistical barrier designed to push a woman further into pregnancy before an abortion and increases the risks.

The bill now heads to the House Rules Committee for further consideration.

ONLINE MAP PROVIDES INFORMATION ON HAZARDOUS WASTE SITES

A new online map could make it easier for people to find out details about scores of hazardous waste sites throughout Missouri.

The interactive map developed by the Department of Natural Resources puts the sites in several categories, from ones undergoing remediation to those that have already been cleaned up and are available for public use.

The website features summaries of past or current problems at the sites, as well as Internet links to more detailed documents.

Until recently, most information about Missouri's hazardous waste sites was available only by reviewing paper documents.

The department said the new website marks its first use of Google's mapping platform and is part of an effort to improve access to environmental information.

RIVER RADIO NEWS, JANUARY 29, 2014

  CARUTHERSVILLE WOMAN FATALLY INJURED WHEN HIT BY TRUCK A Caruthersville woman was fatally injured Monday night when she stepped into the path of a truck.

Authorities say 38 year old Amber C. Davis was killed when she ran onto Interstate 55 into the path of a semi truck being driven by 55 year old Terry L. Holden, of Horn Lake, Mississippi.

She was pronounced dead at the scene. TRUMANN FIRE CHIEF DIES WHILE ON DUTY The fire chief in Trumann, Arkansas died Tuesday after suffering a heart attack while fighting a fire at an area residence.

According to KAIT, 53 year old Rick Winkles died at around 6 pm Tuesday. He had been on the force for almost 28 years.

The residents of the home were able to escape from the fire safely; however the home is considered a total loss. APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED FOR THREE RIVERS LPN PROGRAM Students wishing to join the Licensed Practical Nursing program at Three Rivers College in Kennett have been given some extra time to submit their application.

The deadline for applications has been pushed back a month to March 1st.

Potential applicants must hold a high school diploma or GED, and take the TEAS-V placement exam.

Applicants must also undergo an interview process. For more information, prospective students should contact the Nursing and Allied Health Center at Three Rivers by calling 573-840-9672. HIGH SCHOOL ROBOTICS COMPETITION THIS WEEKEND IN CAPE GIRARDEAU This week will see over forty high school teams in Cape Girardeau for a robotics competition.

The fifth annual FIRST Technology Challenge robotics competition will be held February 2nd at the Show Me Center. The competition will see teams placing their robots against each other with the goal of making it to the world championship in St. Louis.

Head to head matchups are scheduled to begin around noon. The event is free and open to the public. MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE OFFERS TIPS FOR FILING YOUR TAXES The IRS will begin processing individual tax returns this Friday and the Missouri Department of Revenue has some tips as taxpayers prepare their tax filing.

The Department of Revenue recommends that taxpayers file their returns as soon as they can. The sooner a tax return is filed, the sooner a refund will be issued.

Taxpayers should also file electronically or use electronic forms. Missouri tax forms for the 2013 tax year are available online at dor.mo.gov. If you have any questions, you can go online to the Department of Revenue website or call 573-751-3505.

The deadline for filing your taxes is April 15th. SENATOR BLUNT’S MOBILE OFFICE TO MAKE STOP TODAY IN GREENVILLE Senator Roy Blunt’s Mobile Office will be making a stop today in Greenville.

Mobile Offices are opportunities for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

Staff members will be available in Greenville today at the Wayne County Courthouse. The event is scheduled for 2:30 to 3:30 pm. HOUSE COMMITTEE DISCUSS ADDING LOANS TO BRIGHT FLIGHT SCHOLARSHIP A Missouri House committee is considering legislation to offer additional financial assistance to persuade more top students to stay in the state after graduation day.

The legislation would add a forgivable loan of up to $5,000 per academic year to Missouri's Bright Flight scholarship. Each year a student works in Missouri after school would count toward one year of loan forgiveness. Leaving before the loan is repaid would require repaying the loan with interest.

Republican House member Mike Thomson, of Maryville, says too many top Missouri students leave. Bright Flight scholarships are awarded based on ACT or SAT scores. The legislation was examined Tuesday by the House Higher Education Committee.

Governor Jay Nixon has proposed $17 million in next year's budget for a Bright Flight loan program. SENATE COMMITTEE HEARS TESTIMONY ON CELL PHONE TOWERS After getting stymied in court, many telecommunications companies are supporting a new approach in the Missouri Legislature to try to limit local restrictions on cellphone towers.

A Senate commerce committee heard testimony Tuesday on five separate bills limiting city regulations on cellphone towers, utility poles and right-of-way rules.

All of the measures were rolled into a single bill that passed last year. But it was struck down last fall by Cole County Circuit Judge Pat Joyce for violating the Missouri Constitution's single-subject requirement for legislation.

Supporters of the legislation say it's needed to curtail a patchwork of city regulations that can hinder the expansion of high-speed Internet service.

But cities say it undermines their ability to protect property values through local zoning and land use requirements. ARKANSAS’ UNEMPLOYMENT RATE DIPS TO 7.4 PERCENT State officials say Arkansas' unemployment rate dipped slightly to 7.4 percent in December, thanks to gains in employment and an increase in the state's labor force.

The Arkansas Department of Workforce Services said Tuesday that December's rate was down one-tenth of a percentage point from November. The agency says five sectors reported job losses in December, with the largest drop coming in leisure and hospitality positions.

But the trade, transportation and utilities sector increased by 1,600 jobs, with most of the hiring happened at retail stores for the holidays.

Arkansas' unemployment rate remains above the national average of 6.7 percent in December.

RIVER RADIO NEWS JANUARY 28, 2014

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AUTHORITIES SEARCHING FOR SUSPECT IN CAPE GIRARDEAU SHOOTING

Cape Girardeau authorities are searching for a suspect in connection to the shooting that occurred Sunday night at the Arena building.

According to Patrolman Darin Hickey with the Cape Girardeau Police Department, the suspect has been described as possibly being a black male approximately 5’8” 150 pounds, with short dread locks.

Authorities believe that the suspect may have escaped in a black car, that later crashed.  The passengers fled from the vehicle.

One of the victims was shot in the leg and has been released from the hospital, while another was shot in the chest and is in good condition.

TWO ARRESTED IN BUTLER COUNTY

Two Poplar Bluff residents were arrested last night in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 36 year old Scotty R. Braden and Yolanda Braden were arrested shortly before 7 pm.

Yolanda Braden was arrested on 2 counts of possession of a controlled substance, while Scotty Braden had warrants out of Butler County for unlawful use of a weapon and failure to appear on an original charge of burglary.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff man was taken into custody Monday evening on a felony drug charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 33 year old Andrew C. Hightower was arrested in Butler County on a felony charge of distribution of a controlled substance, methamphetamine.

Further details about the arrest were not released.

INVESTIGATION LEADS TO BONO WOMAN’S ARREST FOR MEDICAID FRAUD

An investigation by the Arkansas Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit has led to the arrest of a Bono woman.

According to Arkansas Attorney General Dustin McDaniel, 28 year old Amanda Fielder was taken into custody last week on a felony charge of Medicaid Fraud.

Fielder is accused of billing the state’s Medicaid program for services she did not provide.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE NAMED ONE OF THE FASTEST GROWING COMMUNITY COLLEGES

Three Rivers College has been named one of the fastest growing community colleges in America by Community College Week.

The periodical ranked Three Rivers as the number one fastest growing institution among colleges with 2,500 to 4,999 students during the period from Fall 2011 to Fall 2012. During that period Three Rivers experienced a 25 percent jump in enrollment.

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION MEETING SCHEDULED FOR NEXT MONTH IN KENNETT

The Missouri Department of Transportation has scheduled a meeting for next month to discuss improvements to Highway 412.

The public meeting will be held from 4:30 pm to 7 pm on Thursday, February 20^th at South Elementary in Kennett.

The proposed improvements include five-laning Highway 412 from Highway 84 to Route VV, constructing a roundabout at Route VV and four-laning from Route VV to Routes O and Y.

ARKANSAS ENVIRONMENTAL AGENCY LIFTS BLOCK OF STEEL MILL IN OSCEOLA

A state environmental agency has lifted an order that blocked construction of a $1.1 billion steel mill planned for northeast Arkansas.

Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality has not yet issued an air quality permit, but the agency on Friday did clear the way for preliminary work to begin at the site in Osceola.

The mill was announced last January but construction has been delayed by having to wait for the air quality permit.

The Blytheville Courier News reports that Osceola Mayor Dickie Kennemore says the action will allow builders to take soil samples and do other preliminary work.

An administrative law judge has tentatively scheduled a February 18^th hearing on the appeal for the air permit.

The plant is to employ 525 people and pay annual wages of $75,000.

COMPLAINTS SPURN INVESTIGATION INTO PROPANE PRICES

The Missouri attorney general's office will investigate rising propane prices and a possible shortage of the gas.

Attorney General Chris Koster said Monday he has received many complaints of prices topping $5 per gallon. Republican Sen. Mike Parson, of Bolivar, had called on Koster to investigate the issue to make sure companies aren't price-gouging.

The Missouri Propane Gas Association says the rising costs are caused by higher exports and increased domestic demand due to colder weather and large crop yields. Propane is used to heat homes and to dry crops after a harvest.

Koster says his office is working with nine other Midwest states in its investigation. Parson introduced a Senate resolution Monday asking the Department of Justice to also investigate the issue.

VOTER ID LAW BEING CONSIDERED BY MISSOURI SENATE COMMITTEE

A Missouri Senate committee is considering legislation to require voters to show photo identification at polling places, amid warnings from the state's top elections official that 220,000 people would be unable to vote if the bill passed.

Secretary of State Jason Kander said Monday that 150,000 registered voters currently don't have a government-issued ID that would satisfy the measure's requirements. He says an additional 70,000 voters have expired licenses.

Sponsoring Senator Will Kraus told colleagues at Monday's hearing that the bill is necessary to preserve the integrity of elections. His legislation would not apply to people born before 1941.

Previous attempts to require photo identification from voters have been struck down by courts or vetoed by the governor.

RIVER RADIO NEWS JANUARY 27, 2014

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SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK CLAIMS LIFE OF SIKESTON WOMAN

A single vehicle wreck early Friday morning claimed the life of a Sikeston woman.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the wreck occurred on County Road 450 in Scott County. A vehicle driven by 26 year old Laurajo McDowell left the road and hit an embankment before striking a tree.

McDowell was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene.

JONESBORO MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

A Jonesboro man has died following a single vehicle wreck Saturday in Craighead County.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 38 year old Chad B. Davison was killed in the wreck Saturday afternoon. Davison’s vehicle reportedly become airborne after striking a concrete curb and came to rest in the bottom of a ditch.

IDENTITY RELEASED OF WOMAN KILLED IN HOUSE FIRE

The identity of a woman killed in a house fire last week in Jackson has been released.

According to authorities, 68 year old Emma Sue Wright died in the fire Thursday morning on Westvale Drive. Wright was the only one of five people who was unable to escape the house.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO ARMED ROBBERY

Police in Poplar Bluff have taken a man into custody in connection to an armed robbery.

According to KFVS, 27 year old Ryan Aaron McVaugh is a person of interest in an armed robbery that allegedly took place on January 23^rd.

McVaugh was arrested Friday night.

NINE ARRESTED AS A PART OF BERNIE DRUG INVESTIGATION

Bernie Police say nine people have been taken into custody as a result of an undercover narcotics investigation.

Authorities say that five of the people were arrested at a residence following the execution of a search warrant last week. During the search, officers found and seized numerous items used in the distribution of illegal narcotics, including methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and cash.

The four other arrests were made with the assistance of the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office and the Dexter Police Department. Authorities say that the investigation is continuing and more arrests are expected.

Those arrested include:

24 year old Tiffany Lynn Hayes, of Bernie, is charged with the Class C Felony of Possession of a Controlled Substance.

21 year old Kassandra D. Cavaness, of Bernie, is charged with the Class C Felony of Possession of a controlled substance.

19 year old Vontesha Monique Gray, of Bernie, is charged with the Class C Felony of Possession of a controlled substance.

19 year old Charles Seth Walters, of Bernie, is charged with the Class C Felony of Possession of a controlled substance.

25 year old Tylor D. Williams, of Bernie, is charged with the Class C Felony of Possession of a controlled substance.

21 year old Luster Jordan, of Malden, is charged with the Class B Felony of Distribution of a controlled substance.

30 year old Jameak Steven Townsend, of Malden, is charged with the Class B Felony of Distribution of a controlled substance.

31 year old Kelly Demont Carter, of Malden, is charged with the Class B Felony of Distribution of a controlled substance.

27 year old Marquan Dev Arsha Townsend, of Malden, is charged with the Class B Felony of Distribution of a controlled substance.

MAN ARRESTED ON SEVERAL CHARGES INCLUDING SEXUAL ASSAULT AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

A search of a home in Northeast Arkansas on Friday led to the arrest of a man on multiple sex related charges.

According to KAIT, 48 year old Morris Hudson Cline Jr. was arrested on charges including computer child pornography, transportation of a minor for prohibited sexual conduct, and six counts of first degree sexual assault.

Officers with the Pocahontas Police Department and Randolph County Sheriff’s Department reportedly found a laptop that had underage sexual material on it during the search.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN FACING METH CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff woman is facing a felony meth charge following her arrest over the weekend.

According to the Highway Patrol, 42 year old Jean E. Sherfield is facing felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia.

Sherfield was arrested shortly before 2 am Saturday.

HOLCOMB MAN ARRESTED ON MULTIPLE DRUG CHARGES

A Holcomb man is in custody on multiple drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 63 year old Henry S. Muse was arrested Saturday morning.

Muse is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; possession of a controlled substance, morphine; and possession of drug paraphernalia.

SHOTS FIRED AT ARENA BUILDING IN CAPE GIRARDEAU

Cape Girardeau Police are investigating multiple reports of shots being fired Saturday night and Sunday morning.

According to the Cape Girardeau Police Department, at around 10:20 pm Saturday night, officers were on scene at the Arena building on Kiwanis Drive, and heard shots fired coming from inside the building.

Several people began fleeing from the building and one victim was transported to a local hospital with a gun-shot wound to the chest. At around 10:45 pm officers heard more shots being fired from north of the building, however no victims were located.

At around 11:10 pm, officers were dispatched to a local hospital where a subject had walked into the Emergency Room with a gun-shot wound to his leg. The victim stated that he was shot while at the Arena building.

At around midnight that night, officers patrolling downtown reported hearing gunshots, as well. A little over an hour later, a woman entered the police department saying that her vehicle had been shot multiple times. No one was injured.

The incidents are under investigation.

SIKESTON MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO DISCHARGING A FIREARM AT A VEHICLE

A Sikeston man has been sentenced to 10 years in prison as a part of a plea deal.

According to the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, 49 year old Rone Edward Bratcher pled guilty last week to discharging a firearm at a vehicle.

The plea deal is in reference to an incident in October where Bratcher allegedly attempted to shoot another man.

MAN ACQUITTED OF THREE COUNTS OF 1^ST DEGREE SEXUAL ASSAULT

A man has been found not guilty of sexual assault charges in Northeast Arkansas.

27 year old Corey Ray Weatherford was acquitted on Friday on three counts of first degree sexual assault.

Weatherford has been taken into custody in 2012.

POPLAR BLUFF CHAMBER WARNING OF COUNTERFEIT $100 BILLS

The Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce is warning area businesses of possible counterfeit $100 bills.

A member of the chamber reportedly received a five dollar bill that had been bleached and reprinted as a $100 bill.

These bills will feel real and mark real since they are printed on washed currency. If you have received counterfeit bills please contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 785-5776 or the Butler County Sheriff's Department at 785-8444.

RIVER RADIO NEWS, JANUARY 24, 2014

ONE DEAD IN JACKSON HOUSE FIRE

One person is dead following an early morning fire in Jackson yesterday.

According to authorities, the fire broke out at a home on Westvale Drive shortly after 3 o’clock yesterday morning. Officials say five people were in the home at the start of the fire. The victim was the only person unable to escape.

Jackson Fire Chief Jason Mouser says firefighters had a difficult time battling the blaze because of extreme cold and wind.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. DISPUTE BETWEEN BROTHERS LEADS TO FATAL SHOOTING IN BOLLINGER COUNTY

A disagreement between two brothers in Bollinger County has left one man dead.

Officers with the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Department say they were called to a rural location yesterday morning in reference to a domestic dispute.

Upon arrival, deputies found Jesse Liley with a shotgun shot wound. Jesse Liley was later declared dead by the Bollinger County coroner.

The victim’s brother, Lonnie Liley, was taken into custody at the scene. POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff man is facing drug charges following his arrest last night.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 33 year old Andrew C. Hightower was taken into custody shortly before 11 pm last night in Butler County.

Hightower is facing a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine. Other charges include possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving while revoked. INVESTIGATION ONGOING INTO ATTEMPTED ARMED ROBBERY

Two people in Cape Girardeau were reportedly victims of an attempted armed robbery.

Cape Girardeau police are investigating the incident which occurred just before midnight Wednesday night. According to authorities, a man allegedly approached the victims with a gun on Olive Street and demanded money.

The man eventually fled from the area. OFFICERS IN SCOTT COUNTY UNDER INVESTIGATION BY DRUG TASK FORCE

An investigation has been started into some area law enforcement officers.

According to the Scott County Signal, Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter confirmed that the Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force, and several other agencies are investigating the officers.

Additional details about the investigation were not released. NEW STUDY SUGGESTS NEW MADRID FAULT ZONE COULD STILL SPAWN LARGE EARTHQUAKE

A new study published by the journal Science says that The New Madrid Fault Zone is active and could produce a large earthquake in the future.

In the winter of 1811 to 1812 there were four magnitude-7 or greater temblors centered around New Madrid. The study published on Thursday says that modern-day quakes are signs that the faults in the region are still accumulating stress—and sometimes releasing it as fresh rumblings.

USGS scientists have estimated the chance of having an earthquake similar to one of the 1811 to 1812 temblors in the next 50 years is about 7 to 10 percent, and the chance of having a magnitude-6 or larger earthquake in the next 50 years is 25 to 40 percent.

The full report is available online at sciencemag.org. JUDGE BLOCKS MISSOURI LAW REQUIRING STATE LICENSE TO SERVE AS HEALTH INSURANCE NAVIGATOR

A federal judge on Thursday granted a preliminary injunction against Missouri's law requiring of a state license to serve as a navigator to help consumers sign up for coverage through the new health insurance marketplace.

A new state law requires insurance counselors to receive at least 30 hours of training and pay a small fee in order to help online shoppers negotiate the federal insurance exchange. Missouri's Republican-led Legislature opted against setting up a state-run exchange.

The lawsuit filed in November said the requirements conflict with the federal Affordable Care Act. MISSOURI SENATE TAX CUT PLAN COMES UNDER FIRE FROM GOVERNOR NIXON

Governor Jay Nixon is criticizing an income tax cut plan endorsed by a Missouri Senate committee.

Nixon's office issued a news release Thursday calling the legislation a "fiscally irresponsible tax experiment."

The bill endorsed by the Senate Ways and Means Committee would gradually cut the top individual income tax rate from 6 percent to 5 percent. It also would gradually phase in a 50 percent tax deduction on business income reported on individual tax returns.

Republican Senator Will Kraus says his bill is a sensible and responsible way to cut taxes, because the incremental cuts only take effect if state revenues continue to rise by at least $100 million.

The Democratic governor says the legislation could jeopardize funding for schools. SENATE PANEL HEARS RESOLUTION ON BLOCKING THE SALE OF FUEL CONTAINING 15 PERCENT ETHANOL

Missouri lawmakers are considering whether to permanently block a proposal that could allow more ethanol to be blended into gasoline.

The Senate rules committee held a hearing Thursday on a resolution that would prevent stations from selling fuel containing 15 percent ethanol.

The state Agriculture Department proposed the rule last year allowing E15 gas to be sold. But a legislative panel delayed the proposal in October, citing a 2006 state law that requires a 10 percent ethanol blend. The department says it has legal authority to allow higher concentrations of ethanol.

The House and Senate would likely need to pass the resolution by early March to permanently halt the department's proposal. That would require Governor Jay Nixon's approval, but lawmakers have the ability to override a veto.

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NAMES RELEASED OF TWO ARRESTED IN STABBING CASE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

The names of the two people arrested in connection to the stabbing death of an Egypt, Arkansas man have been released.

According to authorities, David Nathaniel Ferguson and Elizabeth Agnes McKnatt, are each facing a charge of first degree murder for the stabbing death of Silva Joe Fry. Authorities say robbery was the motive for the killing.

MAN CONVICTED OF MURDER AND ARSON IN IZARD COUNTY

A jury in Izard County has found a man guilty of first-degree murder for the 2010 death of his wife, and recommended a sentence of life in prison.

Donald David Dickey was arrested after his wife, Mary Dickey, was found dead inside her Calico Rock home, which had been burned. The jury on Wednesday also found Dickey guilty of arson and recommended another life sentence.

The Baxter Bulletin reports that investigators found Donald Dickey at a marina on Norfork Lake, where first responders were treating him for a foot injury. Officers noticed Dickey had blood on his shoes.

Officers also said Dickey's clothing smelled like motor fuel and that a witness saw Dickey washing his clothes in the lake.

Dickey was facing domestic violence charges before the killing.

IRONTON MAN SENTENCED ON CHILD PORNOGRAPHY CHARGE

An Ironton man has been sentenced to over five years in prison on a child pornography charge.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 60 year old Michael Floerchinger was sentenced to 65 months in prison, followed by supervised release for life on one felony count of possession of child pornography.

Floerchinger had pled guilty to the charge last September.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN SENTENCED ON ASSAULT CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff man has been sentenced on an assault charge in connection to an incident from 2012.

According to Missouri Case Net, on Tuesday, William Fanter was sentenced to 9 years incarceration on a charge of first degree assault. Fanter had entered an Alford plea to the charge on the 14^th.

Fanter was taken into custody in June of 2012 following an incident where another man was cut with a box cutter after getting into an argument with Fanter.

MAN ARRESTED IN CARUTHERSVILLE ON GUN AND DRUG CHARGES

A man was taken into custody on Tuesday on gun and drug charges.

According to the Caruthersville Police Department, the 31 year old male was arrested during a traffic stop on charges of felon in possession of a firearm, possession of drug paraphernalia, and two counts of possession of a controlled substance.

The name of the man arrested was not released.

THREE RIVERS LITERARY JOURNAL WINS NATIONAL AWARDS

A journal of poetry, essays, and short fiction submitted by Three Rivers College’s students and staff has won a national award.

The journal, titled “Confluence” won first place in the American Scholastic Press Association’s Scholastic Yearbook and Journal Awards for 2013.

The journal is published by the college’s English department every year, with a panel of student readers selecting the works to be used from submitted entries.

The publication also won an award for best theme.

US SENATOR’S STAFF TO BE IN CHARLESTON ON MONDAY

Staff members of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Charleston on January 27^th to host a Mobile Office.

Mobile Offices are opportunities for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

The event will be held from 3 to 4 pm Monday at BANC Services Corporation on North Main in Charleston.

NEW LEGISLATION WOULD PUT 72 HOUR WAIT BEFORE AN ABORTION

Missouri women would have to wait 72 hours after seeing a doctor before an abortion could be performed under legislation being considered by the House Health Care Policy Committee.

The panel heard testimony from supporters Wednesday on how the bill would give women more time to think before terminating a pregnancy. Opponents argued the measure would just be a logistical delay designed to push women further into pregnancy before having an abortion, which can increase risk.

Under current law, a woman must wait 24 hours after seeing a doctor before an abortion can take place. Only South Dakota and Utah require 72-hour waiting periods.

The committee took no action on the legislation Wednesday.

GOVERNOR NIXON ASKS LEGISLATURE TO BAR DISCRIMINATION BASED ON SEXUAL ORIENTATION

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is asking the state's Republican-led Legislature to bar discrimination based on sexual orientation.

But the measure's chances of passing are unclear. Some Republicans expressed caution Wednesday and criticized Nixon for championing the proposal while ignoring other policy initiatives.

Current state law prohibits discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex and disability. Legislation to bar discrimination based on sexual orientation passed the Senate on the last day of session last year, but never received a House vote.

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MAN STABBED TO DEATH IN EGYPT, ARKANSAS

Two people have been taken into custody in connection to the stabbing death of a man in Egypt, Arkansas.

According to authorities, 76 year old Silvia Joe Fry was discovered at a home Monday night with stab wounds. He later died at an area hospital. The identities of the two people arrested have not released.

POPLAR BLUFF MAN ARRESTED ON METH CHARGE

A Poplar Bluff man was arrested late last night on a meth charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 22 year old Joesph Sincup was arrested in Butler County on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine.

Further details about the arrest were not released.

SENATOR BLUNT’S MOBILE OFFICE TO MAKE STOP IN DEXTER

Senator Roy Blunt’s Mobile Office will be making a stop next week in Dexter.

Mobile Offices are opportunities for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

Staff members will be available in Dexter on Monday, January 27^th at the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission. The office is scheduled for 1 to 2 pm.

SIKESTON JAYCEES DONATE MONEY TO THREE RIVERS EASTERN CAMPUS

The Three Rivers Endowment Trust has received a $15,000 donation that will go toward the construction of the Three Rivers College Eastern Campus currently being built in Sikeston.

The donation was made by the Sikeston Jaycees. The organization finalized their contribution in December as a donation from its 2013 Rodeo.

$5000 DONATED TO THE CREATION OF GREENHOUSE FOR AGRICULTURE STUDENTS AT THREE RIVERS

Two Butler County residents recently donated $5,000 for the creation of a greenhouse for students of Three Rivers College’s agriculture programs.

The money was donated to the Three Rivers Endowment Trust by Gary and Holt Pride, who are each farmers and alumni of Three Rivers College.

The contribution will purchase the materials for an 8-foot by 20-foot snap-and-grow aluminum frame greenhouse, which will be used as a training tool for the college’s agriculture students. The greenhouse is also designed to be modular in design, allowing the college or future donors to expand the space as needed.

GOVERNOR NIXON PROPOSES RAISE FOR STATE GOVERNMENT WORKERS

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon is proposing to spend $37.1 million to boost wages for state government workers.

The governor's budget proposal was released Tuesday. It calls for increasing state worker wages by 3 percent starting January 1^st, 2015.

Nixon's recommendations for the 2015 budget taking effect July 1^st  also call for targeted increases for jobs where attracting or retaining employees has been difficult. Those include children’s service workers and nurses at the Fulton State Hospital.

Nixon's budget also would trim a net of 81 state employee positions. The governor's budget director says cuts would be focused in the Department of Social Services as part of continued downsizing in the family support division.

FEDERAL GUN LAW NULLIFICATION DEBATED IN MISSOURI SENATE

A Missouri Senate panel is taking up legislation that would send federal agents to jail for enforcing federal gun control laws in the state.

The measure being heard by the Senate General Laws Committee on Tuesday would declare certain federal gun control policies "null and void." Agents enforcing them could spend a year in jail, be fined up to $1,000 and face other civil penalties.

The bill would also allow designated school personnel to carry concealed weapons in buildings. Another provision would let holders of concealed gun permits carry firearms openly, even in municipalities with ordinances banning open carry.

A similar bill passed the Legislature last year, but was vetoed by Governor Jay Nixon.

NIXON SPENDING PLAN INCLUDES MEDICAID EXPANSION

Governor Jay Nixon is proposing to expand the Medicaid health program to cover about 300,000 more Missourians.

Nixon released a spending plan Tuesday for the upcoming budget year that includes $1.7 billion in federal funds to expand Medicaid. The expansion would take effect in October.

Nixon estimates it would bolster state funds by $94 million.

The proposal faces an uphill battle in the Republican-led Legislature, which last year rejected Nixon's call to expand Medicaid. Republicans said the program should be changed before more people are declared eligible.

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COMMUNITY TO VOTE ON POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOL MEASURE

Voters will get a say on the future of the Poplar Bluff School District coming up in April.

At the municipal election on Tuesday, April 8^th, the voting public will have the opportunity to approve the blueprint designed to address space issues at all school facilities.

The plan, which would be completed by fall of 2016, includes moving the Senior High to the current 5th & 6th Grade Center building and moving 4^th, 5^th, and 6^th grades to the current high school, along with other improvements.

The $49.6 million in renovations would be paid for with an 80 cents per $100 of assessed valuation operating levy increase through lease purchase financing, raising the ceiling to $3.73.

HARRISBURG, ARKANSAS MAN CHARGED WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT

A Northeast Arkansas man is facing sexual assault charges in connection to an incident reportedly involving a 13 year old girl.

According to KAIT, 46 year old Bart Kennedy has been charged with sexual assault, sexual indecency with a child, and three counts of furnishing alcohol to a minor.

Kennedy was taken into custody on Sunday.

AUTOPSY SHOWS WOMAN FOUND IN CAR DROWNED

An autopsy has determined that drowning was the cause of death for a southeast Missouri woman whose body was found in the backseat of a car submerged in the Mississippi River.

The Southeast Missourian reports that Cape Girardeau County Coroner John Clifton announced autopsy results on Sunday for 62 year old Autumn D. Vinson of Jackson. Cape Girardeau police said Friday that her body was found inside a Pontiac Bonneville in 5 to 6 feet of water.

What led the vehicle to go into the water remains under investigation. Authorities have also not determined how long the car was in the river.

A passer-by spotted the antenna and roof of the vehicle Friday morning and contacted police.

WOMAN ARRESTED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS ON DRUG CHARGE

A woman was arrested last week on drug charges in Jonesboro.

According to authorities, Patricia Craig, of Jonesboro, was arrested on charges of possession of crack cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

An officer reportedly discovered a small amount of cocaine in Craig’s purse during a search.

SENATOR’S STAFF TO HOLD MOBILE OFFICE NEXT WEEK IN POPLAR BLUFF

Staff members of Untied States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Poplar Bluff next week to meet with area residents.

Blunt’s staff will be hosting a mobile office from 10 am to 11 am on Monday, January 27^th at the Mark Twain National Forest Service Office.

Mobile Offices are opportunities for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

WIND AND COOL AIR MOVING INTO SOUTHEAST MISSOURI TODAY

It’s shaping up to be a cold week in Southeast Missouri.

According to a Special Weather Statement issued by the National Weather Service, outdoor activity is strongly discouraged throughout Southeast Missouri today due to the cold air and strong winds. Temperatures are expected to drop to around 20 degrees today with wind gusts hitting around 33 mph.

After a small reprieve Wednesday, temperatures on Thursday are looking to top out at around 20 degrees before falling to 5 degrees Thursday night.

CONCRETE WORK SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN CARTER COUNTY

Drivers in Carter County should expect delays this week if they intend to travel on US 60.

Westbound US 60 will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews continue to perform concrete work.

Work is scheduled to take place from 7:30 am to 3 pm daily through Friday, January 24^th. The work zone will be located from Route P to Route Y in Carter County.

MISSOURI AND WISCONSIN REACH RECIPROCITY AGREEMENT FOR CONCEALED WEAPONS

Missouri concealed weapons permit holders can now bring their guns with them to Wisconsin.

Attorney General Chris Koster announced the two states had reached a reciprocity agreement when it comes to concealed weapons.

He says a new law requiring permit holders to undergo national background check upon renewal paved the way for the agreement. The same legislation also changed Missouri's gun permit to not include a photo of the holder.

Thirty-six other states also honor Missouri's concealed weapons permits. Missouri recognizes gun permits from any state that issues them.

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TWO PARAGOULD RESIDENTS KILLED IN WEEKEND WRECK

Two Paragould residents died over the weekend following a wreck in Greene County.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 44 year old Tressia Gail Sisco and 22 year old Sarah Elizabeth Hurst were killed in the wreck Saturday night on US Highway 49.

The wreck occurred when the vehicle Sisco was driving reportedly crossed the centerline of Highway 49 and struck Hurst’s vehicle.

FATALITY REPORTED IN MOTORCYCLE WRECK

A Summersville motorcycle driver was killed in a wreck Sunday afternoon.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 26 year old Greg Davis was driving a motorcycle on Highway WW near Summersville in Shannon County, when he crested a hill and hit a vehicle that was backing onto the road from a private drive.

Davis was ejected and later pronounced dead at the scene.

FATHER ARRESTED IN SONS SHOOTING DEATH

A Greene County man has been arrested for second-degree murder in the shooting death of his 3 year old son in Fontaine, Arkansas.

Sheriff Dan Langston told reporters that 23 year old Michael Jefferson Carter of Fontaine was arrested Friday for the January 11 shooting death of Logan Carter.

Langston said Carter is jailed on $1 million bond and has declined to speak with investigators while he seeks an attorney. Carter's first court appearance is scheduled for Monday.

An affidavit filed in the case says Carter and his son were in the living room of the home when a .45-caliber handgun Carter was holding discharged. The bullet struck the boy in the head and he died later at a Paragould hospital.

AUTHORITIES IDENTIFY BODY FOUND IN SUBMERGED VEHICLE

Authorities in Cape Girardeau have identified a body that was discovered last week.

According to Patrolman Darin Hickey with the Cape Girardeau Police Department, 62 year old Autumn D. Vinson, of Jackson, was found in a vehicle that was discovered in water near Red Star Boatdock on the Mississippi River on Friday.

Hickey says that the incident is still under investigation.

TWO ARRESTED IN CONNECTION TO FRIDAY MORNING SHOOTING

Two arrests have been made in connection to a Friday morning shooting in Poplar Bluff.

According to the Daily American Republic, the shooting was reported early Friday morning at an area apartment building. The victim was taken to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center and treated for a gunshot wound in her leg.

Two women were arrested in connection to the incident: 45 year old Leshana Marie Griffin and 28 year old Virinda Fae Woods. They were each arrested on suspicion of armed criminal action, first degree assault and unlawful use of a weapon.

STEELE MAN CHARGED FOR ALLEGEDLY ASSAULTING POLICE OFFICER

A Steele man was taken into custody on Friday for allegedly assaulting a police officer.

According to Steele Police Chief Billy Joe Stanfield, 33 year old Jason Dale Thorne is charged with assault on a law enforcement officer causing injury, unlawful possession of a firearm, resisting arrest creating substantial risk of serious injury or death and receiving stolen property.

Thorne reportedly ran from officers and then struck one in the face following a short foot chase.

DEADLINE APPROACHING FOR CONSOLIDATED LPN PROGRAM AT THREE RIVERS IN KENNETT

The application deadline is rapidly approaching for prospective students looking to enter Three Rivers College’s Licensed Practical Nursing program.

Applications are being accepted for the program until February 1^st. The LPN program, which was previously offered as two programs at the Career and Technology Centers in Hayti and Kennett, has been consolidated into a single course of study at the college’s Center at Kennett.

The program trains students to obtain their LPN license, while also providing a jumping-off point for more advanced nursing education. For more information, call 573-840-9672.

MISSOURI LAWMAKERS BACK DOWN ON PENALTIES FOR PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES

Missouri lawmakers are backing down on a proposal to penalize public universities for failing to meet certain funding and academic goals.

Instead, legislation considered by the Senate Education Committee recently would only allow performance standards to be used for year-to-year higher education funding increases.

If passed, the plan would be familiar to the state's four-year public universities. Governor Jay Nixon used the model informally when he gave them a $25 million increase for the current fiscal year.

Committee chairman and sponsoring Senator David Pearce, of Warrensburg, says universities should be financially rewarded for achieving performance goals. Under his plan, the universities would work with the Department of Higher Education to develop their own performance criteria.

ABSENTEE VOTERS HAVE JUST OVER 24 HOURS TO PRESENT ID IF THEY HAVE NOT ALREADY

The Craighead County Election Commission is giving dozens of absentee voters who cast their ballots without proof of identification in a special state Senate election extra time to show their ID in order for their votes to be counted under a new law.

The commission on Friday voted unanimously to treat ballots submitted without proof of identification the same as those cast in person without photo ID, giving the absentee voters until noon Tuesday to show ID. Tuesday's election was the first under the new law requiring photo ID in order to vote.

The law allows voters without photo ID at the polls to cast a provisional ballot that wouldn't be counted unless they later show ID. A similar procedure wasn't spelled out in the law for absentee voters.

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ONE TAKEN INTO CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO DEATH OF CAPE GIRARDEAU WOMAN

One person has been arrested in connection to the death of a Cape Girardeau woman.

According to authorities, 28 year old Brandon L. Banks was taken into custody in St. Louis on Thursday. Banks was arrested in connection to the death of 40 year old Marsha Ann Brown, whose body was discovered in Southern Illinois by a motorist on Tuesday.

JONESBORO WOMAN KILLED IN CRAIGHEAD COUNTY WRECK

A Jonesboro woman has died following a two vehicle wreck Thursday in Craighead County.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 82 year old Maria Hernandez was killed when the vehicle she was a passenger in crossed the median of Highway 63 and struck another vehicle.

Four other people were injured in the wreck.

ASU FOOTBALL PLAYER KILLED DURING HOME INVASION

A football player at Arkansas State University was killed earlier this week in his hometown.

According to the Jackson, Tennessee police department, 21 year old Markel Owens was shot and killed during a home invasion robbery Wednesday night. Another man was shot and killed during the incident, while Owens’ mother also received a gunshot wound.

Authorities are searching for two suspects in the case.

WOMAN REPORTEDLY STABBED BY BOYFRIEND IN STEELE

A woman is in serious condition after allegedly being stabbed by her boyfriend.

According to KFVS, the victim was stabbed in the leg Wednesday and had to be airlifted to a Memphis hospital. Officers have arrested 37 year old Anquan Williams, who was reportedly at the scene.

Williams is facing charges of armed criminal action, first degree domestic assault, and tampering with physical evidence in felony prosecution.

OSCEOLA HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER ARRESTED FOR ALLEGED SEXUAL CONTACT WITH A STUDENT

An Osceola High School teacher surrendered to authorities Thursday after being accused of inappropriate sexual contact with a student.

According to prosecuting attorney Scott Ellington, 28 year old Nichole J. Winberry, of Paragould, was arrested on four counts of first degree sexual assault.

Ellington says that an investigation began when the Arkansas Child Abuse Hotline received a report that Winberry had engaged in sexual contact with at least one Osceola high school student.

BUTLER AND RIPLEY COUNTIES DESIGNATED AS CERTIFIED WORK READY COMMUNITIES

Butler and Ripley Counties have designated as Certified Work Ready Communities by American College Testing

According to the ACT Work Ready Communities website, the CWRC recognition means a county has a system in place to provide employers' irrefutable data that it can deliver a quality workforce with the skills employers need.

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon joined local business leaders Thursday at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce to congratulate Butler and Ripley Counties on the designation.

Nixon also announced that his budget proposal for the next fiscal year will include an additional $4.5 million in additional resources for Missouri Works Training, which provides customized training opportunities to companies creating or retaining jobs in the state.

DRIVING EXAM STATIONS TO BE CLOSED MONDAY

Driving exam stations across the state of Missouri will be closed Monday.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says that the closures are in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday.

KANSAS TAX CUTS FRAMING MISSOURI DEBATE

Supporters and critics of Missouri tax cut plans both are pointing to the results of recent tax cuts in Kansas.

Several business groups testified during a Senate committee hearing Thursday that Missouri must cut taxes to discourage employers in the Kansas City area from moving across the state line.

But opponents said Kansas revenues and education funding have suffered as a result of its tax cuts.

The Senate panel considered three proposals Thursday. One would cut taxes only on business income. Another would reduce Missouri's individual income tax rate. A third bill would phase in tax cuts for both businesses and individuals. No vote was taken.

Republican legislative leaders have made an income tax cut a priority this year after Democratic Governor Jay Nixon vetoed last year's bill.

MEDICAID OVERHAUL INTRODUCED IN MISSOURI SENATE

The Senate chairman of a Missouri Medicaid study panel has introduced a plan to revamp the health care program without expanding it.

Republican Senator Gary Romine, of Farmington, filed legislation Thursday that would expand the use of managed care plans and provide financial incentives for patients to hold down their medical costs.

Romine's legislation largely follows the recommendations of a special committee he lead last year. It makes no mention of expanding Medicaid eligibility for lower-income adults as allowed under President Barack Obama's health care law.

Missouri's Republican legislative leaders have repeatedly said they want to overhaul the Medicaid program - not enlarge it.

Romine's bill would let Medicaid enrollees who chose high-deductible health plans, but don't incur many costs, keep a portion of the savings.

JUDGES HEAR APPEAL OF FLAG DESECRATION CASE

The constitutionality of Missouri's flag desecration law is under consideration by a federal appeals court panel in St. Louis.

A three-judge panel of the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Thursday heard oral arguments in the case of Cape Girardeau resident Frank Snider III.

Snider was arrested in 2009 for cutting up an American flag, throwing it into the street and trying to set it on fire. When that failed he used a knife to shred it.

Police arrested Snider, citing Missouri's flag desecration statute. Prosecutors dismissed the charge after learning of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that deemed a similar law in Texas unconstitutional.

In 2012, a federal judge in St. Louis ruled Missouri's law was unconstitutional. Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster appealed to the 8th Circuit.

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BODY OF CAPE GIRARDEAU WOMAN FOUND IN SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

The body of a Cape Girardeau woman was found Tuesday in Southern Illinois.

According to authorities, 40 year old Marsha Ann Brown was found dead by a motorist Tuesday morning. Brown’s body was reportedly discovered in a ditch.

Further details about the death were not released.

GOSNELL, ARKANSAS MAN MAKES FIRST COURT APPEARANCE ON RAPE CHARGE

A Gosnell man has made his first court appearance in connection to the Jessica Williams case.

According to prosecuting attorney Scott Ellington, a Blytheville District Judge found probable cause to charge Freddie Sharp III with rape.

Ellington says that DNA was recovered during Williams’ autopsy that indicated a sexual assault and that the DNA was later found to belong to Sharp.

MAN SENTENCED IN CONNECTION TO THEFT FROM SCOTT CITY BUSINESS

A Hurdland, Missouri man has been sentenced in connection to a theft from a Scott City business.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, 52 year old Charles William Tague was sentenced to 14 months imprisonment on one felony count of conspiracy to transport stolen property across state lines and two felony counts of interstate transportation of stolen goods.

Tague was also ordered to pay over $800,000 in restitution.

An investigation revealed that the plant manager of Yield Plus Inc. in Sikeston, John A. Greenlee, was filling tanker trucks owned by Tague at night and on weekends in exchange for money. Tague, who owned a trucking company, would in turn sell the stolen liquid plant food to mostly out-of-state customers.

Greenlee was previously sentenced to a term of 27 months imprisonment.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS MAN ARRESTED ON CHARGE OF DELIVERY OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

A Northeast Arkansas man was arrested Tuesday on two counts of delivery of a controlled substance.

According to authorities, 33 year old Shawn Green, of Minturn, was arrested for allegedly selling hydrocodone to an informant on two different occasions.

TWO DUDLEY RESIDENTS ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES

Two Dudley residents were taken into custody Wednesday afternoon on drug charges.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 31 year old Nickolas C. Schwartz and Rachael N. Schwartz were arrested shortly before 1:30 pm Wednesday in Wayne County.

The two are each facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, hydrocodone; and possession of a controlled substance, diazepam.

TWO MINOR EARTHQUAKES REPORTED ON TUESDAY

Two minor earthquakes were reported on Tuesday, one in Southeast Missouri and a second in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Center for Earthquake Research and Information, a magnitude 2.2 earthquake occurred at 1:23 am Tuesday 6 miles northeast of East Prairie.

Tuesday night at 11:37 pm, a 2.5 magnitude earthquake was recorded 17 miles west northwest of Jonesboro, Arkansas.

DARRYL WORLEY TO PERFORM AT THIS YEAR’S VALENTINES FOR VETERANS CONCERT

Country music artist Darryl Worley will be the featured entertainer at the Fourth Annual “Valentines for Veterans” Concert.

The concert has been scheduled for 7 pm on Friday, February 14^th, at the Black River Coliseum.

There is no admission charge for the event and tickets will be distributed on a first-come-first-served basis with four priorities of ticket distribution: Gold Star family members, Veterans, families of Veterans and the general public.

Ticket distribution is set to begin today at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center and the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce.

PUBLIC MEETINGS SET FOR OZARKS RIVERWAYS PLAN

A series of public meetings on the National Park Service's proposed management plan for the Ozarks National Scenic Riverways in southern Missouri begins Thursday in Eminence.

The federal agency's preferred plan aims to further protect the Jacks Fork and Current rivers. Written comments will be accepted through February 7^th.

A two-hour open house with local parks service officials is scheduled for 6 pm Thursday at Eminence High School. A similar meeting takes place at 6 pm Friday at Salem City Hall.

Public hearings on the management plan are scheduled the evenings of January 21^st at the Van Buren Youth and Community Center and January 22^nd at the Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center in Kirkwood. Both hearings begin at 8 pm and will be preceded by two-hour open house sessions.

FAFSA FRENZY EVENT TO BE HELD NEXT MONTH AT THREE RIVERS COLLEGE

Three Rivers College will be holding an event next month to help you or your child apply for financial aid for college.

FAFSA Frenzy will be held on Sunday, February 9^th at Three Rivers College from 2 pm to 4 pm.

The event is designed to help students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, the first step for all federal need-based financial aid. You do not have to be a Three Rivers student to attend.

Attendees will receive hands-on help from the college’s financial aid advisers in completing the online application, as well as information on the grants, loans, and scholarships available at the federal, state, and college levels.

Participants should bring their 2013 W-2 forms, as well as copies of their 2013 tax forms, if ready. If students or their parents have not yet filed 2013 returns, they should bring any statements of interest earned in 2013, any 1099 forms, and any other forms required to complete taxes.

This will allow completion of the FAFSA during the event, with corrections to be filed after tax returns are complete. Students should also obtain a student PIN and parent PIN online at www.pin.ed.gov before attending.

JUDGE RULES THAT OVER 250 MUNICIPALITIES IN MISSOURI DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR SOME IMPROPERLY COLLECTED TAXES

A federal judge has ruled that more than 250 Missouri municipalities and St. Louis County don't have to pay anything to AT&T customers for improperly collected taxes on Internet access.

The Columbia Daily Tribune reports Judge Nanette Laughrey's decision Monday follows years of legal disputes between the governments, AT&T and its customers. A class-action lawsuit filed against the local governments sought millions of dollars from the entities for AT&T surcharges plaintiffs claimed were used to pay an illegal tax.

Carriers did not collect business license taxes until 2008, but a settlement between local governments and wireless providers required the carriers to pay a lump sum for back taxes. Internet tax revenue was excluded from taxable services because of a federal law that bars taxes for online access.

RIVER RADIO NEWS JANUARY 15, 2014

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MAN SENTENCED IN CONNECTION TO POPLAR BLUFF SHOOTING DEATH

A Hayti man has been sentenced on an involuntary manslaughter charge in connection with the shooting death of a Poplar Bluff man.

According to the Daily American Republic, 20 year old Tommy West III was sentenced on Monday to seven years in prison. West was convicted of shooting Michael Gregory Clayborne in the parking lot of a Poplar Bluff convenience store in October of 2012.

TWO VEHICLE CRASH KILLS PARAGOULD MAN

A Paragould man has died after a two vehicle crash near Brookland, Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 68 year old Robert Thomas, of Paragould, was fatally injured Friday afternoon.

Authorities say the crash happened when the driver of an 18 wheeler failed to stop at a stop sign, pulling into the path of the vehicle being driven by Thomas.

SECOND ARREST MADE IN DEATH OF 11 YEAR OLD IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY, ARKANSAS

A second arrest has been made in connection to the death of an 11 year old girl last August.

A release from the office of Arkansas’ Second Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney Scott Ellington says 29 year old Freddie Sharp III, of Gosnell, Arkansas was taken into custody Monday afternoon for the rape of 11 year old Jessica Williams.

17 year old Christopher Sowell, of Gosnell, was previously arrested in the case and has been charged with first degree murder.

Williams’ body was discovered in a floodway ditch near Big Lake on August 28^th.

CITY WORKERS ACCUSED OF TAKING CITY PROPERTY

Four Cape Girardeau city employees are accused of recycling city property and splitting the proceeds for themselves.

City officials says the four, who worked for the public works traffic operations, allegedly sold metal and batteries to recycling businesses more than 20 times in 2013. They have been charged with misdemeanor receiving stolen property.

The Southeast Missourian reports the four include the city's former traffic operations manager, Robert H. Kutak Jr. He and two others, Austin C. Carver and Geoffrey C. Dial, no longer work for the city. The other worker, Travis K. Friga, is still employed by the city.

Court records do not indicate if Kutak, Carver and Dial have attorneys. Friga's attorney has filed a motion for a change of judge in his case.

SIKESTON MAN ARRESTED ON FIREARM AND DRUG CHARGES

A Sikeston man is facing charges following his arrest Tuesday in Scott County.

According to the Highway Patrol, 26 year old Eric T. Lawrence has been charged with felony unlawful possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance.

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING CHURCH BREAK IN

Authorities in Cape Girardeau are investigating a church break in.

According to KFVS, the Trinity Lutheran Church was broken into Friday night. Cash and an offering cup were among the things that were reported taken.

COOPER WINS NORTHEAST ARKANSAS STATE SENATE SEAT

Republican John Cooper has won a northeast Arkansas state Senate seat, giving Republicans an extra seat in the Legislature in a race that was viewed as an early bellwether for this year's general election.

Cooper defeated Democratic nominee Steve Rockwell and replaces Democratic state Senator Paul Bookout. Bookout resigned last year after he was fined by the Ethics Commission for spending thousands in campaign funds on personal items such as clothing and theater equipment.

Complete but unofficial reports showed Cooper winning 57 percent of the vote.

RAIDERS BASKETBALL GAME RELOCATED TO POPLAR BLUFF

Some extra basketball is going to be played tonight in Poplar Bluff.

According to Three Rivers College, the college’s men’s and women’s basketball games against St. Louis Community College today have been relocated to the Bess Activity Center in Poplar Bluff due to water damage to the STLCC gymnasium.

Admission to the games will be $5, with the women’s game beginning at 5:30 and the men’s game following at 7:30.

RETURNING THREE RIVERS STUDENTS GRANTED EXTENSION FOR REGISTRATION

Students returning to Three Rivers this semester have been granted an extension to register for classes.

Students who have previously completed the admissions process at Three Rivers may now continue to register for Spring semester classes through Friday, January 17^th. On the additional days, the college’s campus and full service centers will be open from 8 am to 5 pm.

For more information go online to TRCC.edu.

US 60 TO BE REDUCED THIS WEEK IN CARTER COUNTY

Missouri Department of Transportation crews will be in Wayne County for the rest of this week for concrete work on Westbound US 60.

During the repairs, US 60 will be reduced to one lane from 7:30 am to 3 pm daily, through Friday. The work zone will be located between Route P and Route Y.

FOWLER TO MEET WITH SENATORS TO GAIN SUPPORT FOR HIS CONFIRMATION TO STATE BOARD

A former Missouri lawmaker is defending his appointment to the state parole board in the face of opposition from some senators.

Dennis Fowler was appointed to the Board of Probation and Parole in December by Governor Jay Nixon. But to remain in the job, his appointment must be confirmed by the Senate.

Several Republican senators have said they intend to block Fowler's confirmation. They note Fowler was one of 15 House Republicans who split from party leaders and voted in September to sustain the Democratic governor's veto of an income tax cut bill.

Fowler is defending his vote by highlighting flaws in the vetoed bill, such as a potential tax hike on prescription drugs.

Fowler says he is meeting with senators this week to try to gain support.

RIVER RADIO NEWS JANUARY 14, 2014

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NAME RELEASED OF BOY SHOT AND KILLED IN GREENE COUNTY

Authorities have released the name of a 3 year old boy who was shot and killed over the weekend at a home near Fontaine, Arkansas.

According to authorities, 3 year old Logan M. Carter was accidently shot by his father, Michael Carter. The incident is still under investigation.

SECOND ARREST MADE IN DEATH OF 11 YEAR OLD IN MISSISSIPPI COUNTY, ARKANSAS

A second arrest has been made in connection to the death of an 11 year old girl last August.

The name of the person arrested has not yet released.

17 year old Christopher Sowell, of Gosnell, was previously arrested in the case and is charged with first degree murder in the death of 11 year old Jessica Williams.

Williams’ body was discovered in a floodway ditch on August 28^th.

CASH REPORTEDLY TAKEN FROM TWO DEXTER BUSINESSES

Authorities in Dexter are looking for suspects in connection to two burglaries where cash was reportedly taken from local businesses over the weekend.

According to the Dexter Daily Statesman, the burglaries were reported at Backworks Chiropractic and Shelter Insurance. A report was also made of an attempted entry at the Stoddard County Farm Bureau.

GREY WOLF CONFIRMED SHOT IN WAYNE COUNTY

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has confirmed by DNA testing that a grey wolf was recently killed in Wayne County.

The wolf was shot by a private land owner in late November.

Missouri Department of Conservation Resource Scientist Jeff Beringer says the animal was an approximately two year old 80 pound female. Officials say they do not believe the wolf was an escaped captive animal, because there was no microchip, tag or tattoo found.

According to the MDC, few wolves have been seen in Missouri in recent years.

ALMOST 3,000 NEW LIBRARY CARDS ISSUED AT POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY

Almost 3,000 new library cards were issued over a year long period at the Poplar Bluff Municipal Library.

The Library is reporting that 2,808 new cards were issued from October 2012 to September 2013; that is a 72% growth in new cardholders from the previous year.

Over 10,600 people in Poplar Bluff and surrounding communities have library cards from the Poplar Bluff Municipal Library.

START OF CLASSES DELAYED AT SOUTH CENTRAL EDUCATION CONSORTIUM

The start of classes at the new South Central Education Consortium in Willow Springs has been delayed until January 21^st.

The consortium, which is a partnership between Three Rivers College and Missouri State University-West Plains, also announced that there will be a registration session held on Thursday from 10 am to 6:30 pm.

The registration session will walk prospective students through the registration process, including signing up for classes and applying for financial aid. Students should fill out a free application online at trcc.edu/admissions before the registration session, and bring their high school transcripts or GED.

TAX CUT PLAN PUT FORTH BY DEMOCRATS IN MISSOURI HOUSE

Democrats in the Missouri House are proposing to cut income taxes for lower- to middle-income individuals and raise them for many wealthier residents.

House Democrats outlined a tax overhaul plan Monday as an alternative to the tax-cut plans being pursued by majority party Republicans.

Democrats said their plan would be "revenue neutral" for the state. It would lower the tax rate on the first $30,000 of income but raise it for income over $300,000 beginning in 2016.

The legislation also would cap the amount of federal income taxes that can be deducted on state income tax forms but increase the standard deduction for people earning less than $15,000 annually.

Some of the Republican tax-cut plans are tailored more specifically for businesses.

ALMOST 60 PERCENT OF MISSOURIANS WHO SIGNED UP FOR INSURANCE THROUGH FEDERAL WEBSITE WERE 45 OR OLDER

More older than younger people in Missouri have been signing up for health insurance through a federally run website.

Figures released Monday by the U.S. government show about 33,000 individuals in Missouri selected a plan through the HealthCare.gov website as of December 28. Of those, about 58 percent were age 45 or older.

Younger adults ages 18-34 accounted for one-quarter of the enrollees in Missouri. That's similar to the national average.

People who are younger or healthier typically pay more into an insurance system than they take out, thus helping to offset the health care costs of older adults.

The new federal figures also show that more Missouri women than men are signing up for insurance policies through the federal website. That also is similar to the national average.

RIVER RADIO NEWS JANUARY 13, 2014

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FORMER POPLAR BLUFF MAYOR DIES

A former mayor of Poplar Bluff died over the weekend.

According to the Cotrell Funeral Service, Loyd Matthews passed away on Saturday, January 11^th.

Matthews had served on the Poplar Bluff City Council before resigning earlier this month.

THREE YEAR OLD BOY SHOT AND KILLED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

Greene County authorities say a 3 year old boy died after being shot in the head by a relative at a home near Fontaine.

Sheriff Dan Langston told reporters that the boy was shot by a relative about noon Saturday and was pronounced dead at a Paragould hospital.

Langston declined to release the names of the boy and the relative who fired the shot. The sheriff said the investigation into the shooting is not yet complete.

TWO FACING DRUG CHARGES OUT OF WAYNE COUNTY

Two people were arrested Friday night in Wayne County on multiple drug charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 22 year old Brittany D. Eads, of Williamsville, and 21 year old Gary L. Stage, of Poplar Bluff, were arrested on felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; and possession of a controlled substance, Hydrocodone.

Stage is also facing a misdemeanor charge of possession of marijuana.

CHAFFEE MAN FACING CHARGES FOR ALLEGEDLY SELLING PRESCRIPTION NARCOTICS

A Chaffee man has been arrested after reportedly being indicted for selling prescription narcotics.

According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Department, 55 year old Randy Eugene Davis is charged with two felony counts of distribution of a controlled substance.

Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter says that authorities had received information during an investigation that Davis was selling prescription narcotics from his residence. Walter told us that Davis was selling Hydromorphone, Hydrocodone, and Oxycodone.

FREDERICKTOWN MAN ARRESTED IN WAYNE COUNTY ON DRUG CHARGES

A Fredericktown man was taken into custody Friday night on drug charges.

According to the Highway Patrol, 36 year old Larry A. Crider is facing felony charges of possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine; unlawful use of drug paraphernalia; and possession of a controlled substance in a correctional facility.

Crider was arrested Friday night in Wayne county.

TENNESSEE MAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSION OF HYDROCODONE

Authorities arrested a Tennessee man early Sunday morning on a drug possession charge.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49 year old William M. Woodell, of Ridgely, Tennessee, was arrested in Pemiscot County shortly before 1 am Sunday morning.

Woodell is facing charges of possession of a controlled substance, hydrocodone; and driving while intoxicated.

THREE ARRESTED FOLLOWING POLICE CHASE

Authorities in New Madrid say three people were arrested following a police chase over the weekend.

According to KFVS, the three suspects, Billy Biggs Jr., Keith Warren, and Marion Warren, are each facing charges of burglary and stealing a controlled substance.

The chase reportedly came after police received a report of a break-in at an area pharmacy.

EARTHQUAKE REPORTED IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A micro earthquake hit near the Missouri and Arkansas border Sunday morning.

According to the Center for Earthquake Research and Information, a magnitude 2.7 earthquake was recorded at 6:20 am Sunday morning five miles east southeast of Manila, Arkansas and two miles west of Dell, Arkansas.

The earthquake had a depth of just over 6 miles.

STEVE HALTER WINS LEADERSHIP AWARD

The President of the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce has been chosen for a national leadership award.

Last week Steve Halter was presented the 2013 Glenn Shepard Excellence in Leadership Award. The winner of the award is selected by a national panel of judges.

He was nominated for the award by the Three Rivers College President, Dr. Devin Stephenson.

DRAINAGE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS EARLY THIS WEEK IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will be in Dunklin County early this week for drainage repairs on Highway 25.

During the repairs, Highway 25 will be reduced to one lane from 7 am to 3:30 pm both today and tomorrow. The work zone will be located between Harris and Bradley streets.

RIVER RADIO NEWS JANUARY 10, 2014

RESTRICT GOVERNMENT’S ABILITY TO GET PHONE DATA  

A Missouri lawmaker is proposing a state constitutional amendment intended to cut down on the government's ability to get data about people's phone calls.

Senator Rob Schaaf wants to amend a section of the Missouri Constitution that already requires specific warrants to be issued before law enforcement officers can search places or seize things.

Schaaf's proposal would add "electronic communications and data" to the list of items protected from unreasonable searches and seizures.

He said the intent is to require a warrant before law enforcement agencies can listen in on cellphone conversations. The measure is prompted by revelations that the National Security Agency has accessed the telephone records of millions of Americans.

RIVER RADIO NEWS JANUARY 9, 2014

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FIRE RESULTS IN DEATH OF DEXTER WOMAN

A woman has died following a fire at her home in Dexter.

According to the Dexter Daily Statesman, 78 year old Reta Vanmatre was found dead Wednesday.

Authorities believe Vanmatre died from smoke inhalation from a fire that was started by a cigarette.

SCOTT CITY MAN CHARGED WITH DISTRIBUTING A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE

A Scott City has been taken into custody in connection to an undercover narcotics operation.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 49 year old Jimmy Simms has been charged with the distribution of a controlled substance.

Simms allegedly sold hydrocodone to two undercover officers near his Scott City residence in June of 2013.

TWO ARRESTED AFTER ALLEGEDLY SELLING MARIJUANA TO UNDERCOVER DETECTIVE

A rural Benton couple has been placed under arrest for allegedly selling drugs to an undercover detective.

According to Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter, 24 year old Steven Patrick and 19 year old Jennifer Carpenter are each facing a felony charge of distribution of a controlled substance.

Sheriff Walter states that while working undercover, a detective purchased an ounce of Marijuana from the couple in September of 2013 at a location near Benton.

MAN ARRESTED ON DRUG AND FIREARM CHARGES IN LAWRENCE COUNTY

A sex offender was arrested Tuesday in Lawrence County Arkansas on multiple charges.

According to authorities, 63 year old Allen Wayne Batson was arrested on Tuesday. Batson had reportedly been staying at a residence in Strawberry, but did not register. When deputies arrived at the residence to arrest Batson they allegedly found multiple firearms, along with methamphetamine and marijuana.

Batson was arrested on charges of failure to register as a sex offender, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

WEATHER FORCES RESCHEDULING OF RIVERWAYS MEETINGS

The recent winter weather has prompted the rescheduling of a public meeting that was originally planned for earlier this week.

The public meeting for the Draft General Management Plan has been rescheduled for Tuesday January 21^st at the Van Buren Youth and Community Center.

Acting Ozark National Scenic Riverways Superintendent Russel Runge said that the poor condition of many roads was the reason for the delay.

The draft plan can still be viewed online at www.parkplanning.nps.gov/ozar.

EVENT TO POSTPONE MOTORCYCLE SKILLS TEST IN POPLAR BLUFF

Those looking to take the motorcycle skills portion of the testing process at the Poplar Bluff Driver Examination Station will not be able to take the test on January 24^th.

According to the Highway Patrol, the motorcycle skills test will not be held that day due to another event at the site. Motorcycle skills testing will resume in Poplar Bluff on Monday, January 27^th.

TRAFFIC FINES COULD BE CAPPED AT $50 IN MISSOURI

A Missouri House member wants to cap fines at $50 for traffic offenses that don't add points to a driver's license.

Republican T.J. Berry, of Kearney, has filed his proposal for the annual legislative session that was starting Wednesday.

Berry says the measure targets automated speeding cameras that assess fines but don't affect a driver's standing. Current law allows speeding cameras to be posted in school, work and designated "Travel Safe" zones.

Berry says traffic offenses serious enough to carry heavy fines should also carry points. He added that his measure could also affect red light cameras and other parking tickets.

APPOINTMENT OF FORMER STATE REPRESENTATIVE FROM ADVANCE TO BE BLOCKED BY SENATE

Republican senators plan to block the gubernatorial appointment of a former Missouri GOP lawmaker to the state parole board because of his vote against an income tax cut.

Several Republican senators told The Associated Press that they won't allow the chamber to confirm the appointment of former Representative Dennis Fowler to the Missouri Board of Probation and Parole.

Fowler served as a lawmaker from the southeast Missouri town of Advance. He was one of 15 House Republicans who broke ranks and voted in September to sustain Democratic Governor Jay Nixon's veto of an income tax bill.

Nixon appointed Fowler to the parole board in December. Fowler resigned from the House and already is working in the new, higher paying job. But he cannot remain in the job without Senate confirmation.

RENEWAL OF PRESCRIPTION DRUG PROGRAM TO BE INCLUDED IN NIXON’S BUDGET PROPOSAL

Missouri Governor Jay Nixon wants to continue a prescription drug program that is due to expire later this year.

Nixon traveled to Springfield on Wednesday to announce that his budget proposal will include nearly $24 million to continue providing prescription drug coverage for some low-income seniors and the disabled.

The Missouri Rx program is due to expire Aug. 28 - less than two months after the new state budget takes effect.

The state program pays half of the out-of-pocket prescription drug expenses for people covered through the federal government's Medicare Part D plan. To qualify, individuals must have an annual income of less than $21,660, or $29,140 for married couples.

More than 227,000 people are enrolled in the program.

RIVER RADIO NEWS JANUARY 8, 2014

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JONESBORO MAN ONE OF FOUR THAT COULD BE PARDONED

An area man is one of four people that could be pardoned soon.

Arkansas Governor Mike Bebee’s office announced on Tuesday that he intends to pardon Joshua H. Brown, of Jonesboro. Brown was convicted in 2002 to Theft of Property.

A press release stated that the notice was issued based on the date of conviction, the fact that all terms of the applicant’s sentence have been completed and there have been no further criminal-law violations.

Final actions can be taken on the pardons after a 30 day waiting period to receive public feedback.

FORMER MAYOR RESIGNS FROM POPLAR BLUFF CITY COUNCIL

The former mayor of Poplar Bluff has resigned from the Poplar Bluff City Council.

Loyd Matthews resignation was accepted Monday by the City Council. According to the Daily American Republic, Matthews is battling melanoma cancer.

A decision on who will fill Matthew’s seat for the rest of his term will be made later this month.

SENATOR BLUNT’S STAFF TO HOST MOBILE OFFICE IN RIPLEY COUNTY

Staff member of United States Senator Roy Blunt will be in Ripley County next week to speak with constituents.

The staff will be hosting a mobile office on Tuesday, January 14^th at the Ripley County courthouse in Doniphan.

Mobile Offices are opportunities for Missourians to discuss their questions or concerns with the federal government one-on-one with members of Senator Blunt’s staff.

The event will be held from 10 am to 11 am.

SPRING REGISTRATION EXTENDED AT THREE RIVERS

If you are interested in enrolling in classes at Three Rivers College for the upcoming Spring Semester, you now have a couple extra days to get registered.

New and current students will be able to register for classes through Tuesday, January 14^th.

The college’s campus and full service centers will be open from 8 am until 6:30 pm on both additional days. A special registration session will also be held from 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday, January 11^th in Poplar Bluff, Sikeston, Dexter, Kennett, and Malden.

During the special session, prospective students will be able to finish the registration process, as well as apply for financial aid. Those wishing to register at the Sikeston Center must call 573-472-5223 for an appointment.

More information is available online at trcc.edu.

HAZARDOUS MOVING OPERATION TO BE HELD THIS MONTH

The Highway Patrol has announced that an operation this month will target vehicles that are being driven unsafely.

According to Captain George Ridens, Troop E officers will conduct a hazardous moving vehicle operation this month.

The operation will be conducted by the Missouri State Highway Patrol in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies throughout the Troop E area, which covers much of Southeast Missouri.

ARKANSAS HOUSE TO BEGIN LOOKING AT IMPEACHMENT OPTIONS FOR LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

House Speaker Davy Carter says lawmakers will begin looking at the options for the possible impeachment of Lieutenant Governor Mark Darr over ethics violations.

Carter on Tuesday said his office is looking at how to move forward with impeachment if a majority of House members want to pursue that process. He said the most likely first step would be appointing a bipartisan committee to make recommendations on the procedures for impeachment.

Carter issued a statement shortly after Darr said he wouldn't resign. Darr last week agreed with Ethics Commission findings that he violated state ethics and campaign laws 11 times and agreed to $11,000 in fines.

Impeachment would require 51 votes in the 100-member House. For a conviction, 24 votes are needed in the 35-member Senate.

NEW LEGISLATION WOULD REQUIRE MORE CHILDREN TO WEAR LIFE VESTS

More Missouri children would be required to wear life vests while boating and swimming under proposed legislation.

Missouri law now requires children younger than 7 to wear a life vest while they're aboard any watercraft.

The legislation would apply the rule to children younger than 8, and require them to wear life vests when they're swimming in more than 3 feet of water without a lifeguard present.

People who allow young children to boat or swim without life vests could be charged with a misdemeanor.

Missouri lawmakers open their annual session Wednesday.

NEW LEGISLATION WOULD REQUIRE MORE CHILDREN TO WEAR LIFE VESTS

More Missouri children would be required to wear life vests while boating and swimming under proposed legislation.

Missouri law now requires children younger than 7 to wear a life vest while they're aboard any watercraft.

The legislation would apply the rule to children younger than 8, and require them to wear life vests when they're swimming in more than 3 feet of water without a lifeguard present.

People who allow young children to boat or swim without life vests could be charged with a misdemeanor.

Missouri lawmakers open their annual session Wednesday.

RIVER RADIO NEWS JANUARY 7, 2014

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ONE ARRESTED IN ALLEGED MURDER FOR HIRE PLOT

Authorities in Reynolds County have arrested a woman in an alleged murder for hire plot.

According to the Reynolds County Sheriff’s Office, Cassandra Rayfield has been charged with attempted murder 1^st degree.

On January 3^rd, an undercover deputy met with Rayfield where a discussion ensued about paying for the murder of her ex-boyfriend.

During the meeting, money was exchanged, as well as photographs of the victim and directions to his residence. Rayfield stated that she wanted the ex-boyfriend killed because of an ongoing custody dispute.

Rayfield was arrested after leaving the meeting area.

WOMAN ARRESTED AFTER ATTEMPTING TO FLEE FROM POLICE WHILE HANDCUFFED

An employee at a Jonesboro business is facing charges for allegedly stealing almost $3000.

According to a report from KAIT, Shanekwa Taylor is facing charges of theft of property through credit card information, fleeing, and fraudulent use of a credit card.

Taylor had allegedly been using customer’s credit card numbers to make transactions and then requested cash back. Officers were alerted to the crime and arrested her at her workplace. When officers were walking Taylor out to the patrol car, she reportedly ran from officers while still handcuffed.

She was later found and taken back into custody.

UP TO $30,000 IN REWARD OFFERED FOR INFORMATION ABOUT YEAR OLD ARSON CASE

Up to $30,000 in reward money is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible in a year old arson case.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, leads are still being sought in an ongoing investigation of an intentionally set fire at the Crop Production Services in Portageville on January 1^st, 2013.

Individuals with information about the fire are urged to call Sergeant William T. Cooper with the Missouri State Highway Patrol at (573) 225-1050, Investigator Danny Ware at the New Madrid County Sheriff’s Department at (573) 748-2516, or the Missouri Arson Hotline at 1-800-39-ARSON.

WARMING CENTERS OPEN THROUGHOUT BUTLER COUNTY

Extreme cold has prompted the opening of several warming centers throughout Butler County.

Butler County Emergency Management Director Jeff Shawan says those in Poplar Bluff who need a place to warm up can go to the United Gospel Rescue Mission on South Broadway, across from Missouri Natural Gas; Second General Baptist Church at 5^th and Pine; or Fellowship General Baptist Church at 3581 North Westwood.

Warming stations are also open at the Nutrition Centers or Community Centers in Neelyville, Fisk and Qulin.

CARDINALS CARAVAN TO INCLUDE STOP IN CAPE GIRARDEAU AND JONESBORO

The 2014 Cardinals Caravan will include stops in both Jonesboro and Cape Girardeau.

On Monday, January 20^th, Cardinals players Seth Maness, Keith Butler, and Randal Grichuk, along with alumni Al Hrabosky, Andy Benes, and Kerry Robinson will be at the Mall at Turtle Creek in Jonesboro and the Osage Center in Cape Girardeau.

Both events will be emceed by Rick Horton. The Jonesboro event will begin at noon, with the Cape Girardeau event following at 6 pm. There will be autographs for kids, Cardinals prize drawings and more at each event. More information is available at the Cardinals website, stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/.

CARDINALS CARAVAN TO INCLUDE STOP IN CAPE GIRARDEAU AND JONESBORO

The 2014 Cardinals Caravan will include stops in both Jonesboro and Cape Girardeau.

On Monday, January 20^th, Cardinals players Seth Maness, Keith Butler, and Randal Grichuk, along with alumni Al Hrabosky, Andy Benes, and Kerry Robinson will be at the Mall at Turtle Creek in Jonesboro and the Osage Center in Cape Girardeau.

Both events will be emceed by Rick Horton. The Jonesboro event will begin at noon, with the Cape Girardeau event following at 6 pm. There will be autographs for kids, Cardinals prize drawings and more at each event. More information is available at the Cardinals website, stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/.

EXTREME COLD CHALLENGES MODOT CREWS

Missouri Department of Transportation crews have been working around the clock on roads in Southeast Missouri; however the extremely cold temperatures continue to provide challenges.

According to MoDOT Southeast District Maintenance Engineer Jeff Johnson, bitterly cold temperatures have greatly reduced the effectiveness of the salt and other snow-melting materials.

Many of the major routes in the Southeast District are currently considered partly covered, with some areas considered covered.

Johnson says that we should start seeing more progress today when the temperature starts to rise, however travelers should be extremely cautious for their morning commute.

FIRE OFFICIALS ASK FOR PEOPLE TO BE CAREFUL WHEN HEATING THEIR HOMES

Fire officials are urging Missourians to be careful when using space heaters and fireplaces to heat their homes.

The state fire marshal's office says flammable objections should be kept at least 3 feet away from portable space heaters, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves and furnaces. Portable heaters should be turned off when leaving a room or going to bed.

Ovens should never be used to heat a house, and people should not burn in their fireplaces Christmas tree branches, treated wood or wrapping paper.

The National Fire Protection Association says space heaters account for about one-third of home heating fires and 80 percent of home heating fire deaths each year.

EARLY VOTING BEGINS TODAY FOR VACANT ARKANSAS STATE SENATE SEAT

Early voting is set to begin to fill a vacant state Senate seat from northeast Arkansas.

Early voting begins Tuesday in the race between Democrat Steve Rockwell and Republican John Cooper for the District 21 state Senate seat left vacant by the resignation of former Senator Paul Bookout.

Bookout resigned in August after the state Ethics Commission found that he had spent money from his re-election bid on clothing, home theater equipment and dozens of other personal items.

The election is scheduled for January 14^th.

The Jonesboro Sun reports that early voting will be available through January 13^th from 8 am to 5 pm at the Craighead County Election Annex in Jonesboro and at the courthouse in Lake City.