Friday, August 30, 2024

MULES FOOTBALL KICKS OFF REGULAR SEASON TONIGHT AGAINST VALLEY VIEW

The Poplar Bluff Mules Football team is looking to get the 2024 football season off to a great start tonight against Valley View High School, from Jonesboro, Arkansas.

The Mules will host the Blazers tonight at Poplar Bluff High School, with kickoff set for 7 pm. It will be the first game for each team this season. The teams also met last year with Valley View picking up a 26-14 win in Jonesboro.

The Mules went 5-4 in the regular season last year before falling to Farmington in the Class 5, District 1 Semi-Finals. Valley View finished the 2023 campaign with a 10-2 record, with their season coming to an end in the Arkansas Class 5A State Quarterfinals.

Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM will be providing live coverage of the game tonight with the kick-off show beginning at 6:20 pm. KWOC is also providing video coverage at the Today’s Talk KWOC Facebook page and the River Radio Youtube page.

DEADLINE APPROACHING TO APPLY FOR FEDERAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE FROM MAY STORMS

Missourians who were affected by storms earlier this year are running out of time to apply for federal disaster assistance.

According to FEMA, residents in 10 counties impacted by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding between May 19th and May 27th have until September 23 to get their application filed.

The assistance, under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program, is available to eligible homeowners, renters and self-employed business owners in Butler, Carter, New Madrid, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Barry, Howell, and Texas counties.

You can register online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or by downloading the FEMA app.

Further help is also available at FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers, which are available in Doniphan and Sikeston. Officials say that the Dexter DRC will cease operations at 6 pm tonight.

MISSOURI HIGHLANDS HEALTHCARE HOSTS COMMUNITY CARES DAY TODAY AT POPLAR BLUFF LIBRARY

Missouri Highlands Healthcare in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a Community Cares Day today to raise awareness for International Overdose Awareness day.

The event will be held from 10 am to 1 pm at the Poplar Bluff Library on North Main Street.

Attendees will be able to learn about Narcan and also receive a free kit to help prevent overdoses.

There will also be medication lock boxes and disposal packs to safely store and dispose of medications.

The event will also feature a food bank and box fan giveaway.

For more information, call 573-604-1378.

R.W. HUNTINGTON POOL TO CLOSE FOR THE SEASON THIS WEEKEND

A popular Poplar Bluff attraction will be closing for the season after this weekend.

Officials with Poplar Bluff Parks and Recreation tell KWOC News that time is running out for swimmers to enjoy the R.W. Huntington Pool this season.

The last day the pool will be open is Sunday, September 1st.

AREA LAW ENFORCEMENT PARTICIPATING IN DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER CAMPAIGN

Area law enforcement agencies are reminding everyone to not drink and drive while celebrating Labor Day.

Law enforcement agencies across Missouri and Arkansas are participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement through September 2nd.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, during the 2022 Labor Day Holiday period, there were 490 crash fatalities nationwide.

Of these 490 traffic crash fatalities, 39 percent involved a drunk driver, and a quarter involved drivers who were driving with a BAC almost twice the legal limit. Among drivers between the ages of 18 and 34 who were killed in crashes over the Labor Day holiday in 2022, 47% of those drivers were drunk, with BACs of .08 or higher.

Officials say that drivers should be safe during this Labor Day holiday by planning ahead if they intend to drink.

CREWS TO BE WORKING ON INTERSTATE 55 IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Southbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction through the middle of the week as contractor crews perform guardrail repairs. 

The work zone is located from mile marker 11 to mile marker 13.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Wednesday, September 4th.

Thursday, August 29, 2024

MAN SHOT WEDNESDAY MORNING IN POPLAR BLUFF

A man was shot in the leg early Wednesday morning in Poplar Bluff.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Mike McClain tells KWOC news that at approximately 1:15 am Wednesday, officers responded to a residence on Mangold Street in reference to a shooting.

At the scene, the homeowner directed them to a male in the backyard of the residence, who was suffering from a gunshot wound to the leg.

The man who was shot, 46 year old Jason Knuckles, of Poplar Bluff, was transported to an area hospital for treatment.

An investigation into the incident determined that Knuckles had allegedly entered the fenced in backyard and when confronted became aggressive and approached the homeowner.

The homeowner shot Knuckles and then called 911.

Poplar Bluff Police Chief Mike McClain tells KWOC News that following discussions with the Butler County Prosecutor’s Office, no charges are being sought against the homeowner at this time.

It was not released if any charges will be pursued against Knuckles.

MAN IN CUSTODY IN CONNECTION TO DEATH OF AN INFANT IN MOREHOUSE

A man is facing multiple charges in connection to an investigation into the death of an infant in New Madrid County.

According to Sheriff Ronnie Adams, deputies were dispatched to a residence in Morehouse on Sunday for a report of a three month old child not breathing.

Deputies and EMS responded to the scene and found the infant deceased.

Adams says that an investigation is ongoing, however an autopsy concluded that there was no trauma leading to the death.

During the investigation, deputies seized a marijuana grow operation including 56 plants in various stages of growth inside the residence.

The father of the child, Zachary Scott Murphy, was located on Monday. He has been arrested on charges of endangering the welfare of a child first degree with death of a child, manufacturing a controlled substance, and three counts of endangering the welfare of a child first degree by creating substantial risk.

His bond has been set at $50,000.

SHOOTING FROM MONDAY IN POPLAR BLUFF POSSIBLY SELF-INFLICTED

Updating a story we have been following for you this week, a shooting from Monday in Poplar Bluff may have been self-inflicted.

Lieutenant Josh Stewart with the Poplar Bluff Police Department tells KWOC News an individual was discovered Monday in the 1800 block of South Broadway after suffering a single gunshot wound to the leg.

The victim, identified as 23 year old Michael Hart Jr., of Poplar Bluff, was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

Stewart says that Hart has since become uncooperative and indicated to investigators that he would not assist with prosecution. During the investigation, it was discovered Hart was in possession of a handgun and disposed of that firearm prior to his contact with law enforcement. That firearm was later recovered.

Stewart added that it appears the shooting may have been accidental and self-inflicted.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the Poplar Bluff Police Department at 573-785-5776.

MAN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH NEAR FAIRDEALING

One man was injured during a single vehicle crash Tuesday evening in Ripley County.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that 41 year old Charles Cunningham, of Naylor, was driving on Highway 160 when his vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway and overturned.

The crash occurred shortly after 5 pm Tuesday, two miles west of Fairdealing.

Cunningham suffered serious injuries in the crash and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

OVERDOSE AWARENESS EVENT SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY

Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health in Poplar Bluff will be hosting an overdose awareness event this weekend.

The event will be held from 10 am to 5:30 pm this Saturday at the Westwood Event Center. There will be speakers, educational materials, and resources, along with a free lunch.

For more information, call 573-686-5090.

BRIDGE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULED FOR TODAY IN STODDARD COUNTY

Eastbound Route 114 in Stoddard County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge maintenance.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route AH to Route CC near Grayridge.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

JUVENILE INJURED DURING FIRE IN POPLAR BLUFF

A juvenile was injured on Tuesday during a residence fire in Poplar Bluff.

According to officials, at around 2:30 pm Tuesday, crews were dispatched to 1503 Grand Avenue for a structure fire.

KWOC News has confirmed that a juvenile was flown to a St. Louis hospital following the fire.

The home had significant damage and the Missouri State Fire Marshal's Office has been notified for the investigation.

THREE RIVERS COLLEGE TO HOST BATTLE OF THE BULLS NEXT MONTH

Rodeo action will be returning to Poplar Bluff next month.

The Three Rivers College Rodeo Team is hosting the 2nd Annual Battle of the Bulls on September 7th at Ray Clinton Park.

The event will begin at 7 pm featuring bull riding and barrel racing.

There will also be activities for kids and food trucks available at the park.

The cost to attend is $15 for adults and $10 for kids ages eight and under.

More information is available at trcc.edu/events.

TWO INJURED IN DUNKLIN COUNTY CRASH

Two people were injured in a crash Tuesday morning in Dunklin County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash was located on Route J, three miles west of Malden, where 21 year old Jonathan Eggert, of Dexter, reportedly failed to yield to a vehicle while making a left hand turn.

The driver of the second vehicle, 29 year old Alana Smith, of Malden, suffered serious injuries in the crash and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

Eggert received minor injuries and was taken to a Dexter hospital.

TRACK RESURFACING PROJECTS UNDERWAY AT POPLAR BLUFF SCHOOLS

Crews will be working over the next couple of weeks to resurface the tracks at Poplar Bluff Schools.

Poplar Bluff Athletic Director Kent Keith tells KWOC news that work will be done through Friday of this week for the resurfacing of the Junior High School track.

Crews will then move to the high school to work on that track next week from September 3rd through the 6th.

Keith is asking the community for their cooperation in honoring these closures.

MODOT CREWS WILL BE WORKING ON ROUTE AA TODAY IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route AA in Butler County will be reduced today so Missouri Department of Transportation crews can perform pavement repairs.

According to officials, the work zone will be located between Route 51 and Route B.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 8:00 a.m. to 4 p.m.

CONCRETE REPAIR PROJECT UNDERWAY IN GREENVILLE AREA

Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction as contractor crews perform concrete repairs. 

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Business Route 67 to Route A near Greeneville.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Tuesday, September 10. The work zone will be in place 24 hours a day until the work is completed.

Tuesday, August 27, 2024

AUTHORITIES INVESTIGATING SHOOTING IN POPLAR BLUFF

Authorities in Poplar Bluff are investigating a shooting report.

Few details have been released, however Poplar Bluff Police Chief Mike McClane has confirmed that an individual suffered a single gunshot wound to the leg and the injury appears to not be life threatening.

The victim was discovered in the 1600 block of Missouri Avenue and transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

McClane says that the investigation is open and ongoing.

We will keep following this story for you and bring you updates as they become available.

BICYCLIST STRUCK BY A VEHICLE ON HIGHWAY 53 IN BUTLER COUNTY

A bicyclist was struck by a vehicle Sunday evening in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 66 year old Edward Reed was riding the bike on Highway 53, half a mile south of Poplar Bluff, when he reportedly pulled into the path of a vehicle.

Reed suffered serious injuries in the wreck and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

JENNIFER TAYLOR STEPS INTO NEW ROLE AS ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT OF PERSONNEL

Finishing our series on new administrators in the Poplar Bluff School District, we are now focusing on a new face in the R-1 personnel department.

Jennifer Taylor was hired by the Board of Education in February as assistant superintendent of personnel.

Taylor says she is a believer in shared leadership, which is why she took the call to fill the vacancy in the cabinet left by her predecessor, Mike Owen, now superintendent at a neighboring district.

Her career with Poplar Bluff Schools began in 1998 as a first grade teacher at the former Mark Twain Elementary School. Before her latest promotion, Taylor served as principal of Eugene Field Elementary since 2009.

In 2021, Eugene Field was one of only two schools in the state, both in Poplar Bluff, to be named National ESEA Distinguished Schools out of 1,300 Title 1 educational institutions. The next year Eugene Field was listed at No. 8 in U.S. News & World Report’s ‘Best Elementary Schools’ out of over 1,000 ranked across Missouri.

In 2022, the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals named Taylor one of only 11 Distinguished Principal Honorees statewide.

CHICAGO MAN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A CRASH IN GREENVILLE

A Chicago man was flown from the scene of a crash Sunday afternoon in Southeast Missouri.

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC news that the crash occurred shortly after 3 pm when a vehicle driven by 25 year old Jose Xol Coy, of Chicago, Illinois, struck the back of a freightliner on US Highway 67 in Greenville.

Xol Coy received serious injuries in the crash and was transported by air to a St. Louis hospital.

GUARDRAIL REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR THIS WEEK IN WAYNE COUNTY

Southbound Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction for the rest of this week so contractor crews can perform guardrail repairs. 

The section of Route 67 involved with the project is located in the area of County Road 303.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Friday.

TREE TRIMMING TO CAUSE DELAYS THIS WEEK ON ROUTE 61

U.S. Route 61 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane this week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews trim the trees along the roadway.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from I-55 to County Road 506 in New Madrid.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. each day.

Monday, August 26, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF CITY CLERK LORI PHELPS APPOINTED INTERIM CITY MANAGER

A new city manager has been appointed for the City of Poplar Bluff.

According to city officials, on Thursday the city council unanimously appointed City Clerk and Treasurer Lori Phelps to be the interim City Manager, effective September 20th.

Phelps began her career with the City of Poplar Bluff in March of 2008 as a secretary to the City Manager and City Clerk. She was then appointed Deputy City Clerk in May of 2012 and was appointed City Clerk and Treasurer in July of 2022.

Phelps will take over for departing city manager Matt Winters who submitted his resignation earlier this month to take the city administrator position in Jackson.

CREWS TO REDUCE ROUTE H IN BUTLER COUNTY THIS MORNING

Route H in Butler County will be reduced this morning so crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation can perform pavement repairs.

The work zone is located between Route HH and County Road 260.

Weather permitting, crews will be working this morning from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.

OVER 80 YEAR OLD STEAM TRAIN TO BE MAKING STOP IN POPLAR BLUFF NEXT MONTH

An over 80 year old Union Pacific steam train will be making a stop next month in Poplar Bluff.

The train, named Big Boy Number 4014, will be in Poplar Bluff on the morning of Friday, September 13th before its departure at 9 am.

The train was delivered to Union Pacific in December of 1941 and was retired in 1961. A multi year restoration process began in 2013 and the train returned to service in 2019 to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad's Completion.

The train will depart on the "Heartland of America Tour" on Wednesday, Aug. 28 from Cheyenne, Wyoming, and travel across eight additional states before arriving in Texas. The eight-week tour concludes in late October.

The train had previously stopped in Poplar Bluff in August of 2021.

PAVEMENT REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY ON ROUTE HH IN BUTLER COUNTY

Route HH in Butler County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway is located from County Road 342 to County Road 251.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

AMANDA SUMMERS TO SERVE AS POPLAR BLUFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER PRINCIPAL

Continuing our series on new administrators in the Poplar Bluff School District we now focus on the Early Childhood Center.

Amanda Summers will serve this year as principal of the Early Childhood Center, succeeding JoAnne Westbrook, who retired after directing the program for nearly 20 years starting at the former Kinyon building.

In 2006, Summers became a teacher at Oak Grove Elementary, the same school she attended as a young girl.

The majority of Summers’ career has been spent at the Kindergarten Center, teaching in the classroom for eight years, then serving as a reading interventionist for three.

She earned her master’s degree in elementary administration from William Woods University in Fulton in 2010, and her bachelor’s in elementary and early childhood education from Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau.

In addition to leading the building, Summers has been appointed to take over Westbrook’s district-wide duties as Title 1 director. While Summers admitted she has much to learn regarding federal reporting, she noted that she has an aptitude for organization, and has been fortunate to receive training on the various guidelines from Westbrook during the transition.

HIGHWAY PATROL URGES SAFETY FOR LABOR DAY WEEKEND

With Labor Day weekend almost here, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is urging everyone to be safe during the holiday weekend.

The Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. over the Labor Day holiday weekend.

Troopers will be patrolling Missouri’s roadways, enforcing Missouri’s speed limit, seat belt, and impaired driving laws, in addition to being available to assist motorists.

Last year, 15 people were killed and 477 were injured in Missouri over the Labor Day holiday weekend in 1,058 traffic crashes. Also, 125 people were arrested by the Highway Patrol for driving while intoxicated.

The Labor Day holiday is also a busy boating weekend. In 2023, there were 12 boating crashes which included three people being injured.

Friday, August 23, 2024

WELLS RETAINS PRIMARY WIN FOLLOWING RECOUNT

Larry Wells has secured the Republican nomination for Butler County Western District Commissioner.

Butler County Clerk Donna Hill tells KWOC News that a recount was held Thursday for the race after Wells won the primary earlier this month by only two votes over his nearest challenger, Kenny Barker.

The results stayed exactly the same following the recount with Wells winning with 666 votes cast in his favor.

FOOTBALL JAMBOREE TONIGHT IN FESTUS

We are a week away from the official start of the high school football season in Southeast Missouri which means it is time for the annual jamboree.

The Poplar Bluff Mules will be traveling north this year for the Festus Jamboree. In addition to Festus, the Mules will also play Farmington and Seckman.

The kick off is scheduled for 6 pm tonight and every Poplar Bluff snap will be carried live on Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM as well as on the KWOC Facebook page and River Radio Youtube page starting at 5:45 pm.

10TH ANNUAL RIDE FOR A CURE TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY

The 10th Annual Ride for a Cure Dice Run in memory of Larry Maronay has been scheduled for this weekend

Registration for the event will begin at 10 am on Saturday at the Dexter Elks Lodge, with the ride beginning at 11 am. The entry fee is $20 per bike and $10 for an additional rider with a meal included at the end of the ride.

All proceeds will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

For more information, call Brian Jones at 573-421-1771.

REDMAN EAST CAMPGROUND TO REOPEN NEXT WEEK

A popular area campground will be reopening to the public next week.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Wappapello Lake tell KWOC News that the Grand Re-Opening of Redman East Campground is scheduled for Thursday, August 28.

Officials say that the campground has been closed due to renovations, including a new shower facility, new utilities at each site, site expansion and leveling, road widening, and more.

Many of the sites have been expanded to accommodate larger RVs that are commonly used by the recreating public in the campground.

A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at 9 am on the 28th, followed by a period where the campground will be open for drive throughs by the public, until noon.

Visitors with camping reservations are welcomed to set up starting at noon.

Once re-opened, the campground will remain in operation

through Wednesday, November 6 when it closes for the season.

NEW POPLAR BLUFF KINDERGARTEN PRINCIPAL CHRISTY YOUNG TALKS ABOUT HER PLANS FOR THIS YEAR

Continuing our series on new administrators in the Poplar Bluff School District, we now focus on the new leader of the Poplar Bluff Kindergarten Center, Christy Young.

Entering the 19th year of her tenure, Young was hired in February by the Board of Education to succeed Jessica Thurston as principal of the Kindergarten Center.

This year, the Kindergarten Center will be adding eight new staff members, with several being teachers along with a building secretary and a nurse, plus there are a few more certified retirements anticipated next year.

Assembling a newer team, Young says she plans to lead a reboot of the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports system, “taking it back to tier one, training staff from the ground up,” she said, as well as orchestrating a boot camp for students in order to model expectations.

Young split summer school duties in June with Thurston in order to become acquainted with the building. The two happened to have co-taught together back when Young’s career began at O’Neal Elementary.

MODOT CREWS TO CAUSE DELAYS ON ROUTE B IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Route B in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane for a week as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform pavement repairs.

The section of roadway being reduced is located from County Road 314 to Route BB near Holcomb.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Thursday, August 29.

Thursday, August 22, 2024

DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER OPENS IN DONIPHAN

A joint Disaster Recovery Center is now available in Doniphan.

The center is located in the Ripley County Caring Community Partnership building at 209 West Highway Street. It will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. until further notice.

Homeowners, renters and self-employed business owners in 10 Missouri counties who were impacted by the May 19th through 27th severe storms, tornadoes and flooding can visit any of the three centers in Southeast Missouri for one-on-one help, regardless of where they live. Services at the centers are free.

The 10 counties are: Butler, Carter, New Madrid, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard, Barry, Howell, and Texas.

DRCs are a one-stop shop for disaster survivors who have applied with FEMA and need to present additional documentation or just have questions about the status of their cases.

Survivors are encouraged to apply with FEMA before visiting a DRC to get the process going as quickly as possible. For those who need help to apply, DRC staff can assist survivors on the spot. For those who are blind or low-vision, or Deaf or hard-of-hearing, assistive devices are available at the centers as well.

More information is available at www.DisasterAssistance.gov.

MAN RECEIVES MULTIPLE DECADE SENTENCE IN CONNECTION TO BUTLER COUNTY MURDER

A man will be spending multiple decades behind bars in connection to a fatal 2018 shooting in Butler County.

James Odell Johnson pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin and one count of conspiracy to possess and discharge a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

He admitted shooting a man in Poplar Bluff at the behest of Shanesha “Nikki” Burns in connection with a heroin distribution conspiracy. The victim’s body was discovered on May 20, 2018.

Johnson lured the victim to the home with drugs supplied by Burns and James Michael Cohen, and then invited the victim to a rural area to go shooting. When the victims’ gun jammed, Johnson shot him with his own 9mm handgun. Johnson was later arrested with murder weapon.

On Tuesday, Johnson was sentenced to 20 years in prison, which will run consecutive to a 10-year term that he received for a 2018 case in which he shot a Poplar Bluff police detective in the arm.

ALL MEMBERS OF MARBLE HILL POLICE DEPARTMENT HAVE RESIGNED

The Bollinger County Sheriff’s Department is working with officials in Marble Hill following the announced departures of the city’s police officers.

Bollinger County Sheriff Casey Graham tells KWOC News that on Monday, his office was informed that all members of the Marble Hill Police Department submitted their resignations to the Marble Hill City Council, effective this Friday.

Sheriff Graham says that his office is in communication with city officials to address the situation and he is confident that they can negotiate a resolution to ensure that law enforcement services will continue to be provided to the city.

No information was provided on what prompted the resignations.

KWOC News has reached out to Marble Hill City Officials but have not received a response.

We will continue to follow this story for you and bring you updates as they become available.

FOUR SCHOOLS SET TO START TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

School opening week in Southeast Missouri will be wrapping up today with at least four more schools welcoming back students.

Naylor, Puxico, Ripley County R-3, and Ripley County R-4 are all beginning their school years today.

With most schools having started, motorists are again reminded to be mindful of increased traffic on roadways as well as an increase in student drivers.

TRAIN STRIKES BACKHOE IN HAYTI, ONE DEAD

A Caruthersville man has died after a vehicle he was driving was struck by a train Tuesday afternoon.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 37 year old Thomas Jackson was driving a backhoe on Gettings Lane, in Hayti, at around 3:30 pm when he failed to yield to the train and was hit.

Jackson was pronounced dead at the scene by Pemiscot County Coroner Brian Irions.

KRISTEN SPAIN TAKES OVER AS PRINCIPAL OF EUGENE FIELD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Continuing our series on new administrators in the Poplar Bluff School system, today we look at Eugene Field Elementary.

According to school officials, Kristen Spain was named the Eugene Field Teacher of the Year April, after receiving nominations by her building twice prior. She is now succeeding Jennifer Taylor as principal for the school beginning this school year.

A Van Buren native, Spain’s career with the Poplar Bluff School District began in 2008 as a second grade teacher at Oak Grove, fresh out of college, having earned her bachelor’s in elementary education from Central Methodist University in Fayette that year.

Spain served as an interventionist for the past two years, before which she was employed as a third grade teacher, following a year as a district-wide virtual instructor for first graders, after spending the previous five teaching the grade span.

Going forward, she says she wants to "instill in teachers that we all have gifts, you just have to find what your talent is."

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN SIKESTON FIRE

Two people were seriously injured in an early morning fire.

According to Sergeant Tyler Rowe with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety, early Wednesday morning officers responded to the 300 block of Kramer Street for a structure fire.

Officers were able to force an exterior door open and could hear someone calling for help from inside the residence. Fire Division Personnel arrived on scene and immediately began searching for the occupants.

Two victims were located and successfully rescued from inside the residence. The two individuals sustained serious injuries and are currently in stable condition at area hospitals.

Rowe says that the cause of the fire is currently under investigation with the assistance of the State Fire Marshal's Office.

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

ARMED STANDOFF ENDS PEACEFULLY AT NORTHEAST ARKANSAS GAS STATION

A confrontation with an armed man ended peacefully Monday at a Northeast Arkansas business.

According to Randolph County Sheriff Kevin Bell, the incident began at around 1:30 am Monday morning. Deputies were called to assist Pocahontas Police with an armed suspect who had allegedly fired one round at a gas station in Pocahontas.

A standoff ensued and officers were eventually able to talk the suspect into surrendering.

The suspect, identified as 42 year old Jared Forward, of Newton, Texas, was arrested on charges of possession of a controlled substance, aggravated assault upon a certified law enforcement officer or an employee of a correctional facility, and discharging a firearm in city limits.

Forward was held in the Randolph County jail on no bond.

11 MORE SCHOOLS STARTING THE YEAR TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Students in at least 11 more Southeast Missouri school districts will be starting their classes today as Missouri school opening week continues.

Doniphan will be starting their school year today, as will Dexter, Advance, Charleston, and Bloomfield.

School opening week will wrap up for the most part on Thursday, as Naylor, Puxico, Ripley County R-3, and Ripley County R-4 all welcome back students.

MAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL AFTER STRIKING A BRIDGE NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

A man was transported to a regional hospital after he ran into a bridge Monday evening.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 55 year old David Kirk, of Harviell, was driving on Highway 158 when his vehicle failed to yield to another vehicle, ran off the side of the roadway, and struck a bridge.

Kirk’s vehicle then landed in a ditch.

Kirk was flown to a Memphis hospital with serious injuries. No injuries were listed for the driver of the second vehicle.

SHELLY RIDENS TAKES OVER LEADERSHIP OF O’NEAL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Poplar Bluff native Shelly Ridens is using her over two decades of experience to lead O’Neal Elementary School.

Ridens, who spent the past three years as assistant principal at the Middle School, was hired by the Board of Education in January to succeed Dr. Amy Dill as principal of O’Neal.

Before joining the administrative ranks, Ridens served as a reading interventionist at the Middle School for three years, following five years as a fifth grade teacher. Her career in Poplar Bluff began in 2007 at the former 5th & 6th Grade Center. After a couple of years, she transferred to Oak Grove Elementary to teach fourth grade.

At O’Neal, Ridens said she plans to set expectations and common language through the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports program so she can focus on curriculum, a subject she has taught on the side at Three Rivers through the community college’s articulation agreement with Hannibal-LaGrange University.

For the past two years, Ridens has served as the district’s St. Jude Math-A-Thon coordinator, a fundraising effort that began at O’Neal in 1989. Last school year, the district raised over $38,000 for the children’s research hospital, bringing the district’s grand total to nearly $1.25 million.

PUBLIC MEETING SCHEDULED TO DISCUSS UPGRADING ROUTE 67 IN BUTLER COUNTY

The Missouri Department of Transportation will hold a public hearing to discuss phases 3 and 4 of the multi-phase project to upgrade U.S Route 67 in Butler County.

Proposed plans for constructing a roundabout at Routes C and V and Route 160 will also be shared.

The hearing will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 10th, at the Neelyville Schools cafeteria.

Phase 3 of the U.S. 67 project includes future access at Neelyville and upgrading an approximately five-mile section of U.S. 67 to four lanes from County Road 352 to near County Road 272.

Phase 4 includes upgrading the last three-mile section of U.S. 67 to reach the Missouri/Arkansas state line. Right of way and easements will be acquired for this project.

During the meeting, construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Routes C and V and Route 160 in Butler County will be discussed. This intersection is located west of the Route 160/158 interchange south of Poplar Bluff.

The public hearing will be open house style, and visitors can stop-by anytime between 4 and 7 p.m. to discuss the details of the proposals with the project team.

BRIDGE REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR TODAY ON INTERSTATE 55

Southbound Interstate 55 in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews perform bridge repairs.

The work zone is located between mile markers 63.2 and 62.4.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tuesday, August 20, 2024

AT LEAST 24 MORE SCHOOLS IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI TO BEGIN SCHOOL YEAR TODAY

School opening week in Southeast Missouri continues today with at least 24 more schools welcoming back students.

The school year will begin today for kids in the Twin Rivers, Neelyville, Malden, Sikeston, Holcomb, East Carter, and Clearwater school districts, among others.

At least 11 more schools will start on Wednesday, including Doniphan, Dexter, Advance, and Bloomfield.

NORTHEAST ARKANSAS CRASH RESULTS IN ONE DEATH

A Rector man has died from injuries he received in a two vehicle crash on Sunday.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 44 year old Austin Dollar was driving on US Highway 49 when his vehicle was struck from behind as he tried to pull onto the shoulder.

Dollar’s vehicle then ran into a ditch.

Officials say that Dollar suffered fatal injuries in the crash. A juvenile passenger in the other vehicle was transported to an area hospital for injuries.

ADVANCE MAN IN CUSTODY ON CHILD MOLESTATION CHARGE

Authorities in Stoddard County have taken an Advance man into custody on a child molestation charge.

According to the Stoddard County Sheriff’s Office, 27 year old Ethan Baggett was recently arrested on a Stoddard County warrant for child molestation - 2nd degree.

During an interview with authorities, Baggett allegedly admitted to inappropriate contact with a young child.

Baggett was held in the Stoddard County Jail on no bond.

ONE INJURY REPORTED AFTER BOAT COLLISION ON CURRENT RIVER

A Doniphan man was injured in a boat collision over the weekend in Ripley County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred at around 11:30 am Saturday on Current River, three miles north of Doniphan, when a vessel crossed into the path of another vessel.

A passenger in the first boat suffered minor injuries, while two people on the second boat were ejected. No injuries were reported by the people who were ejected.

CONCRETE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS THROUGH MID SEPTEMBER IN WAYNE COUNTY

Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction as contractor crews perform concrete repairs. 

The section of roadway being reduced is located between County Road 213 and Route K.

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Tuesday, September 10. The work zone will be in place 24 hours a day until the work is completed.

PEMISCOT COUNTY ROAD TO BE CLOSED THROUGH EARLY NOVEMBER

Route HH in Pemiscot County will be closed for over two months so contractor crews can replace the No. 85 Drainage Ditch.

The ditch is located between Route 153 and County Road 282 near Wardell.

Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed by Tuesday, November 5. The road will remain closed as work is underway, and motorists should seek alternate routes.

Monday August 19, 2024

DONIPHAN MAN KILLED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH 

A Doniphan man has died following a single vehicle crash Saturday afternoon in Ripley County. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 35 year old Joseph St. Cin was driving on Route U, south of Doniphan, when his vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway and overturned. 

St. Cin, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected during the wreck. He was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

MANY SOUTHEAST MISSOURI SCHOOLS TO RETURN TO CLASS TODAY 

Numerous schools around Southeast Missouri are set to return to classes today.  

At least 20 area school districts will hold their first day of school today, including Poplar Bluff, Bernie, Campbell, Clarkton, Greenville, Kennett, Sacred Heart, Shady Grove State School, and Westwood Baptist Academy. We have a full list of Missouri school’s opening today on our website. 

Three Rivers College will also be having the first day of classes for the Fall Semester today. 

More area school districts will begin classes on Tuesday, including Twin Rivers, Neelyville, and Malden.

KWOC wants to wish all parents, students, teachers, and staff a fantastic new school year!!!

MOTORISTS ASKED TO WATCH FOR STUDENTS ON THE ROADWAYS 

With students returning to school this week in Missouri, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to watch for students.  

Drivers should expect a change in traffic patterns ─ school buses and parents taking their children to school and many young drivers will join other motorists on the road and affect the morning and afternoon commute. Also expect an increase in pedestrian and bicycle traffic.  

Missouri law states that on a two-lane road, if a school bus is stopped and displaying warning signals while loading or unloading children, drivers must stop when meeting and following the bus. However, it is only necessary to stop on a four-lane highway when following the bus. 

Drivers, when you see a stopped school bus, stay alert and follow the law. Children may not be aware of traffic and dart unexpectedly into the roadway. 

Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about riding a bus, walking, or driving to school in a safe manner. If they ride a bike, please make sure they wear a helmet and follow traffic laws.

CONCRETE REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS BEGINNING TODAY IN WAYNE COUNTY 

Route 67 in Wayne County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction as contractor crews perform concrete repairs.  

The section of roadway being reduced is located from Route F to Route FF near Greeneville.  

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Tuesday, September 10, from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The work zone will be in place 24 hours a day until the work is completed.

RECOUNT TO BE HELD FOR BUTLER COUNTY WESTERN DISTRICT COMMISSIONER RACE 

A Butler County judge has ordered a recount for the Republican nomination for the county’s Western District Commissioner position. 

According to Butler County Clerk Donna Hillis, the recount will be held on Thursday August 22nd at 9 am.

Only two votes separated Larry Wells and Kenny Barker following the primary on August 6th, with Wells winning by a vote of 666 to 664.

10TH ANNUAL RIDE FOR A CURE TO BE HELD ON SATURDAY 

The 10th Annual Ride for a Cure Dice Run in memory of Larry Maronay has been scheduled for this weekend. 

Registration for the event will begin at 10 am on Saturday at the Dexter Elks Lodge, with the ride beginning at 11 am. The entry fee is $20 per bike and $10 for an additional rider with a meal included at the end of the ride. 

All proceeds will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

For more information, call Brian Jones at 573-421-1771.

PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR 33RD ANNUAL OLD GREENVILLE DAYS 

Preparations are underway for the 33rd Annual Old Greenville Days. 

According to the Wappapello Lake US Army Corps of Engineers, the annual event has been scheduled for September 21st and 22nd at the Greenville Recreation Area. 

Officials say the event will include arts, crafts, history, and music. 

For more information, contact the Wappapello Lake Management office by calling 573-222-8562.

Friday August 16, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF MULES FOOTBALL SCRIMMAGE SET FOR THIS WEEKEND 

The Poplar Bluff Mules football team will be kicking off the fall season this week. 

The Maroon vs White Gatorade game will be held Saturday at 7 pm at Poplar Bluff High School. Poplar Bluff Athletics Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that admission is one bottle of Gatorade or other sports drink. 

Today’s Talk KWOC will be covering the scrimmage live Saturday beginning at 6:45 pm on the KWOC Facebook page and the River Radio YouTube channel.

MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD HAS REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS BEFORE THE SCHOOL YEAR STARTS 

The new school year is coming up in Southeast Missouri and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is reminding parents to make sure that their children have the required immunizations. 

Children attending kindergarten through 12th grade are required to have the following immunizations or booster shots: DtaP, IPV, Hepatitis B, MMR, and Varicella. 

8th through 12th grade students are also required to have the Tdap and MCV immunizations. 

For more information you can go online to www.health.mo.gov/immunizations or contact your local public health agency.

DATE SET FOR POPLAR BLUFF HISTORIC TRAIN DEPOT PANCAKE BREAKFAST 

A date has been announced for the Poplar Bluff Historic Train Depot breakfast fundraiser. 

Pancakes will be served from 7:30 am to 11 am on Saturday, September 28th at the Train Depot. 

Tickets are $7 per person and all proceeds will go towards the renovation of the Poplar Bluff Historic Train Depot.

DUCK BLIND DRAWING AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE SET FOR THIS WEEKEND 

The annual duck blind drawing at Wappapello Lake is coming up this weekend. 

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers the drawing and registration will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, at the Bill Emerson Memorial Visitors Center. 

The registration fee is $15 and applicants are asked to use a credit or debit card. 

Permitted duck blinds may be placed on the lake after Labor Day and must be removed from the lake, or transferred to a permitted storage cove, within two weeks of the closure of the zoned duck season. 

For more information, contact the Wappapello Lake Management Office at 573-222-8562.

RUN 4 THE ARTS SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER 7TH

A date has been set for the 9th annual Run 4 the Arts hosted by Three Rivers College. 

The four-mile run or walk, along with a one-mile walk, will be held at 8 am on Saturday, September 7th at the College’s Poplar Bluff Campus. The course will begin and end in front of the Tinnin Fine Arts Center. 

All funds from the event will go to benefit Three Rivers fine arts scholarships. 

For more information, contact Three Rivers Director of Development Michelle Reynolds at 573-840-9077.

POPLAR BLUFF HEROES TO RAISE MONEY FOR ST. JUDE WITH LADIES NIGHT OUT 

Ladies can have a fun night out in November and raise money for the kids at St. Jude. 

Poplar Bluff Heroes will be presenting Ladies Night Out and Designer Handbag Bingo at the Black River Coliseum on Friday, November 8th. Social Hour will begin at 5 pm, with the event starting at 6 pm. 

Organizers say that there will be dinner and prizes in addition to crafts, vendors, music, and more. 

Tickets can be purchased online at Eventbrite.com. 

All proceeds from the event will go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Thursday August 15, 2024

STRONG TO SEVERE STORMS POSSIBLE THIS EVENING OVER SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

Strong to severe thunderstorms will be possible this evening in Southeast Missouri. 

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the National Weather Service, a good chance of thunderstorms is forecast for southeast Missouri this evening and overnight. 

A few strong to severe storms with mainly a damaging wind threat will be possible, with locally heavy rainfall and lightning also being primary concerns. 

In addition to possible severe weather, high temperatures are forecast to reach the mid 90’s and will combine with high humidity to yield peak heat index values from 105 to 110 across a large portion of the region this afternoon. 

Remember to take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning and drink plenty of water to replenish lost fluids. Also remember to never leave a child or a pet in a hot vehicle, even for a short period of time.

PARENTS AND STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO REPORT SCHOOL SAFETY CONCERNS 

With schools restarting, state officials are reminding school personnel, parents, and students to report safety concerns. 

According to Colonel Eric Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Courage2Report Missouri program provides a safe and confidential way to report any concerns regarding school safety.

Olsen says that there are several ways to submit a report, including the Courage2Report mobile app, online at mshp.dps.missouri.gov, or by calling 866-748-7047. 

Those reporting their concerns may remain anonymous by not providing their name.

CREWS WORKING THIS WEEK ON ROUTE 153 IN PEMISCOT COUNTY 

Route 153 in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction for the rest of this week as contractor crews perform guardrail repairs.   

The work zone is located near the intersection of Route 153 and Route EE. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. both today and tomorrow.

DEXTER WOMAN FACING METH RELATED CHARGE 

A Dexter woman is facing a meth charge following her arrest this week. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 60 year old Connie Lemons was taken into custody Tuesday night on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine. 

Lemons is also facing charges of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and fail to maintain right half of the roadway resulting in an accident.

MULTI-MONTH ROAD PROJECT UNDERWAY ON INTERSTATE 55 

Northbound Interstate 55 in Pemiscot and New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction over multiple months as contractor crews mill the roadway.  

The work zone is located from mile marker 26.2 near Portageville, Missouri to mile marker 50.4 near New Madrid. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Friday, November 8. 

FEED AND SEED EVENT SCHEDULED FOR TODAY 

New Day Ministry in Poplar Bluff will be hosting a feed and seed event today. 

The event is from 3 to 5 pm and is first come, first serve, with packs limited to one per household. 

New Day Ministry is located at 703 Franklin Street in Poplar Bluff. For more information, call 573-718-4578.

Wednesday August 14, 2024

HEAVY RAINFALL POSSIBLE TODAY IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI 

We could see some heavy rain today in Southeast Missouri. 

According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook from the National Weather Service, locally moderate to heavy rainfall is expected today, which may lead to isolated flooding of poor drainage and flood-prone areas. 

Most of Southeast Missouri is expected to receive one half of an inch to two inches of rainfall. Most of Butler, Carter, Ripley, and Wayne Counties could see up to three inches of rain. 

Weather officials say that any thunderstorms that develop today are expected to remain below severe limits.

CORNING AND PIGGOTT AMONG SCHOOLS BEGINNING CLASSES TODAY 

Several schools in Northeast Arkansas will be starting their school year today. 

Corning, Paragould, and Piggott School Districts, among others, are all set to begin classes this morning. A list of schools opening today is available on our website.  

Many schools in Southeast Missouri will be welcoming kids back beginning next week, with Monday seeing at least 20 schools opening their doors, including Poplar Bluff, Greenville, and Kennett.

TWO SERIOUSLY INJURED IN HAYTI WRECK

Two people were badly injured Sunday afternoon in a single vehicle wreck. 

Officials with the Missouri State Highway Patrol tell KWOC News that the crash occurred when a vehicle driven by 28 year old Thomas Odom, of Wardell, was driving on County Road 322, eight miles north of Hayti, traveled off the left side of the roadway and overturned. 

The passenger in the vehicle, identified as 42 year old Maria Plunk, of Portageville, suffered moderate injuries in the wreck. 

Odom was airlifted to a Memphis hospital, while Plunk was transported by ambulance to a Pemiscot hospital.

FRESHMAN ORIENTATION COMING UP TODAY AT POPLAR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL 

Freshman orientation is set to be held today at Poplar Bluff High School. 

Officials say that orientation will begin at 8 this morning. 

Students will get to learn more about life at the High School, get their class schedule, pick up their school laptop, learn the layout of the campus, and meet their advisory class. 

Students had to be enrolled by yesterday to attend and should also bring a backpack. 

If you have any questions, contact the Poplar Bluff High School at 573-785-6471.

AREA WOMAN FLOWN TO MEMPHIS HOSPITAL FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE WRECK

An area woman was flown to an area hospital Monday evening after being involved in a single vehicle wreck. 

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 29 year old Natorie Barr, was driving on County Road 502, near Aquila, when her vehicle ran off the side of the roadway, ran off a bridge, and overturned in a creek. 

Barr, who was reportedly not wearing a safety device, was ejected during the wreck. She suffered serious injuries and was flown to a Memphis hospital.

GUARDRAIL REPAIRS SCHEDULED FOR ROUTE 153 IN DUNKLIN COUNTY 

Route 153 in Dunklin County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction over the next week as contractor crews perform guardrail repairs.   

The section of roadway is located south of County Road 316 near Campbell. 

Weather permitting, work will take place from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Wednesday, August 21st.  

Tuesday August 13, 2024

TWO SACRED HEART TEACHERS AWARDED AS NATIONAL EDUCATORS OF EXCELLENCE 

Two educators at a Poplar Bluff school are being recognized as National Educators of Excellence. Subrina Berger and Casey DesPres of Sacred Heart earned the award.

KWOC News spoke with Subrina Berger from Sacred Heart School about the award. 

Subrina Berger: 

“Miss Casey and I are co-sponsors for the Sacred Heart Catholic School beta team. We have had our beta team active now for 3 years.  Miss Casey actually brought it to us, her children are involved in the beta team at their school at St Teresa's in Glennonville and their sponsor Miss Gwen has been a keystone in helping us build up our club and meet the standards that we both have, which are very high.”

“We want to do everything and we want to win as much as we can, but we want the kids to do the work and take us there. In Beta there are four pillars and they are leadership, service, academics, and achievement, and those four pillars are the the reasons that we give so much authority to the children, to the students.” 

“We received an email from National Beta and it said congratulations you have achieved excellence as an educator in the state of Missouri and then it wasn't just for the state of Missouri but it was for the entire country and so each state that has a club is eligible and so each Club is eligible through meeting four different requirements.”

“You just sort of go through the year trying to get through it, you know, doing what you need to do to compete at State and then take your winners from state to national competition and then we have leadership summits for our office holders, our president and vice president for the club, and these are all the students doing all of this. When you achieve the four requirements which are earning School of Distinction.” 

“The second is becoming a school of Merit and then having some of our students attend the State Convention, the Leadership Summit, or the National Convention, and then our club must provide 50 hours per Club member as a minimum and if you do all of those things you achieve an educator in excellence award and surprisingly we were the only two that did it in the state of Missouri.” 

According to a press release, only 121 of over 20,000 sponsors received the honor this year nationwide.

RECOUNT HELD FOR DUNKLIN COUNTY SHERIFF’S RACE 

A recount was held Monday for Dunklin County’s Sheriff Race.  

Officials with the Dunklin County Clerk’s office tell KWOC News that Nick Darter has come out on top by a final vote total of 2,234-2,188. Both candidates witnessed the recount, which lasted about three and half hours.  

Darter begins his term as sheriff on January 1, 2025, taking over for Sheriff Bob Holder who’s retiring after 28 years in office. 

NEELYVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT OPEN HOUSES TO BE HELD THIS WEEK 

The Neelyville School District will be holding orientation and open house events this week before the beginning of the school year. 

According to school officials, Kindergarten Orientation has been scheduled for 6 pm this evening at Hillview. 

The open houses for all other grade levels will begin at 5 pm on August 15th. All High School and Junior High schedules can be viewed on the parent portal on Infinite Campus. 

MORE NORTHEAST ARKANSAS SCHOOLS TO RETURN TO CLASS TODAY 

At least two schools in Northeast Arkansas will be welcoming kids back to classrooms today.

The school year is scheduled to start this morning in the Hoxie and Pocahontas School Districts. 

Wednesday will see a number of Northeast Arkansas school districts open their doors for students including Corning, Paragould, and Piggott.

MOTORISTS ASKED TO WATCH FOR STUDENTS ON THE ROADWAYS 

With students returning to school soon, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding drivers to watch for students.  

Drivers should expect a change in traffic patterns ─ school buses and parents taking their children to school and many young drivers will join other motorists on the road and affect the morning and afternoon commute. Also expect an increase in pedestrian and bicycle traffic.  

Missouri law states that on a two-lane road, if a school bus is stopped and displaying warning signals while loading or unloading children, drivers must stop when meeting and following the bus. However, it is only necessary to stop on a four-lane highway when following the bus. 

Drivers, when you see a stopped school bus, stay alert and follow the law. Children may not be aware of traffic and dart unexpectedly into the roadway. 

Parents are encouraged to talk to their children about riding a bus, walking, or driving to school in a safe manner. If they ride a bike, please make sure they wear a helmet and follow traffic laws.

CREWS TO BE WORKING ON ROUTE U THIS WEEK IN PEMISCOT COUNTY

Route U in Pemiscot County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction this week as contractor crews perform guardrail repairs.   

The work zone is located at the northbound 155 off ramp near Caruthersville. 

Weather permitting, work will take place today through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Monday, August 12, 2024

FOUR ELECTED TO OZARK BORDER BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Ozark Border Electric Cooperative held its annual meeting on Friday.

Voting was conducted all throughout the week leading up to the meeting to decide who would take the seats on the Ozark Border Board of Directors.

Dennis “Boots” Legrand won the election for District 2, carrying 1,446 votes of the 2,461 votes cast.

In District 3, Lee Wright won a four way race by less than 100 votes over his nearest competitor.

Dewayne Ligons, of Ellsinore and Chad Parker, of Campbell, were unopposed in their elections for District 1 and District 4 respectively.

RECOUNT TO BE HELD TODAY IN DUNKLIN COUNTY SHERIFF’S RACE

A recount of last week’s primary votes will be held today in Dunklin County.

Officials with the Dunklin County Clerk’s office tell KWOC News that a recount will be conducted beginning at 1 pm.

The recount will be concerning the Dunklin County Sheriff’s race which featured a less than 50 vote difference between Nick Darter and Aaron Waynick.

DATES SET FOR OPEN HOUSE AND ORIENTATIONS IN THE POPLAR BLUFF R-1 SCHOOL DISTRICT

Parents in Poplar Bluff will have the opportunity to learn more about the schools their children will be attending this fall during a series of open houses scheduled for this week.

The 5th, 6th, and 7th grade Open Houses are set for Tuesday, August 13th. The 8th Grade Orientation will also be held on the 13th.

Open houses will be held for the Kindergarten and the four elementary schools are scheduled for Wednesday, August 14th.

On Thursday, August 15th, there will be the 4th grade and Poplar Bluff Technical Center Open Houses.

For Poplar Bluff High School, freshman orientation is set for August 14th, with the High School Open House following on August 15th.

The first day of school has been scheduled for Monday, August 19th.

For exact times of all of the events, visit the Poplar Bluff School District website.

POPLAR BLUFF MULES FOOTBALL SCRIMMAGE SET FOR THIS WEEKEND

The Poplar Bluff Mules football team will be kicking off the fall season this week.

The Maroon/White Scrimmage game will be held Saturday at 7 pm at Poplar Bluff High School. Poplar Bluff Athletics Director Kent Keith tells KWOC News that admission is free, but they will be taking bottled drink donations at the door.

Today’s Talk KWOC 93.3 FM and 930 AM will be covering the scrimmage live Saturday beginning at 6:45 pm on the radio and on the KWOC Facebook and River Radio Youtube pages.

SOME NORTHEAST ARKANSAS SCHOOLS TO RETURN TO CLASS TODAY

Summer is winding down, which means it’s time for students in Northeast Arkansas to return to class.

Some schools in Northeast Arkansas will be holding their first day of classes today, including Maynard, Rector, and Sloan-Hendrix.

Hoxie is one of the few Northeast Arkansas schools in our listening area that will be starting their fall semester tomorrow.

GUARDRAIL REPAIRS TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY ON ROUTE 60 IN BUTLER COUNTY

Westbound U.S. Route 60 in Butler County will be reduced to one lane today with a 12-foot width restriction as contractor crews perform guardrail repairs. 

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the section of roadway being reduced is located from Route NN to Marble Hill Road near Poplar Bluff.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through 5 p.m.

Friday, August 9, 2024

FIRE CREWS RESPOND TO STRUCTURE FIRE IN POPLAR BLUFF

Fire crews in Poplar Bluff responded to a structure fire Wednesday night.

According to officials, a Poplar Bluff police officer noticed the fire on Franklin Street and informed dispatch shortly after 10 pm.

Fire crews quickly responded to the location and found a vacant structure fully involved. Crews were on scene for over three hours before the fire was extinguished. The home is being considered a total loss.

The Fire Marshal's office was contacted and an investigation into the fire is underway. There were no injuries.

HIGHWAY PATROL INVESTIGATING OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING IN DUNKLIN COUNTY

Authorities are investigating an officer involved shooting in Southeast Missouri.

Sergeant Clark Parrott tells KWOC News that the Missouri State Highway Patrol has been asked by the Dunklin County Sheriff’s Office and the Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney to investigate a deadly officer involved shooting.

Sergeant Parrot says that any information obtained during the investigation will be turned over to the Dunklin County Prosecuting Attorney.

POPLAR BLUFF WOMAN FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF CRASH IN BUTLER COUNTY

A Poplar Bluff woman was flown from the scene of a single vehicle crash in Butler County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 33 year old Jeffery Harris, of Fairdealing, was driving on US Highway 160 when his vehicle ran off the side of the road and overturned.

A passenger in the vehicle, 35 year old Marie Ferguson, of Poplar Bluff, suffered serious injuries in the crash and was flown to a St. Louis hospital. Harris received minor injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

DEADLINE IS TODAY TO PURCHASE TAGS FOR BULKY ITEM PICKUP

Today is the final day for Poplar Bluff residents to purchase tags for this month’s Bulky Item Pickup.

Residents can purchase bulk item tags from the City Collector’s office at City Hall for $20. The tags entitle you to the removal of four bulk items, such as couches or refrigerators. Tires may be collected for a charge of $3 per tire with a limit of four tires.

No construction materials or small items will be picked up and the program is for residential areas only.

Today is the final day to purchase item tags at City Hall to be included in next week’s pick up, which will be conducted on Tuesday, August 13th.

CREWS TO BE WORKING TODAY ON ROUTE 25 IN STODDARD COUNTY

MO Route 25 in Stoddard County will be reduced today as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway.

While work is underway, southbound traffic will be shifted to a head-to-head configuration in the northbound lanes.

The work zone is located from County Road 511 to U.S. Route 60 near Dexter.

Weather permitting, work will take place today from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

CULVERT REPLACEMENT TO CAUSE DELAYS TODAY NEAR MATTHEWS

Route HH in New Madrid County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot restriction today so contractor crews can replace a culvert under the roadway.

The section of roadway is located between U.S. Route 61 and County Road 613 near Matthews.

Weather permitting, work will take place today through 5 p.m.

Thursday, August 8, 2024

ONE DEAD FOLLOWING SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH IN CLAY COUNTY

A Corning man has died following a single vehicle crash in Northeast Arkansas.

According to the Arkansas State Police, 49 year old Shane Potter was driving on Highway 135, in rural Clay County, when his vehicle ran off the roadway and struck a tree.

The crash occurred shortly after 8 pm Tuesday night.

Officials say that Potter was killed in the wreck.

SIKESTON JAYCEE BOOTHEEL RODEO BEGINS WITH PERFORMANCE FROM WARREN ZEIDERS

The 72nd Annual Sikeston Jaycee Bootheel Rodeo is underway.

One of the biggest names in country music, Warren Zeiders, headlined night one last night, bringing country music and rodeo fans from across the region to Southeast Missouri.

Rodeo action will continue tonight in addition to Rhett Walker taking the stage, followed by Ludacris on Friday, and Shane Smith and the Saints on Saturday.

You can purchase tickets online at SikestonRodeo.com.

CALDWELL CREEK COVE REOPENED AT WAPPAPELLO LAKE

An area cove has reopened following an investigation into an algae bloom.

According to the Wappapello Lake U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Caldwell Creek Cove is available again for area residents.

The cove was recently closed as a precaution because of an algae bloom. Officials say that recent water tests have confirmed that the cove is safe for public use.

Visitors are asked to report anything that appears unsafe or unusual to the Wappapello Lake project office at 573-222-8562.

SENIOR HEALTH FAIR SCHEDULED FOR SEPTEMBER IN POPLAR BLUFF

A health fair for area residents ages 50 and up will be held this fall in Poplar Bluff.

The 27th Annual free Senior Health Fair from the Butler County Community Resource Council and AmeriCorps Seniors, has been scheduled for 10 am to 2 pm on Tuesday, September 24th at the Twin Towers in Poplar Bluff.

There will be multiple services available, including health screenings, vaccinations, community resource information, and more.

For more information, call 573-686-8624.

STRIPING OPERATIONS TO CAUSE DELAYS THIS MONTH ON US HIGHWAY 67

U.S. Route 67 in St. Francois, Madison and Wayne Counties will be reduced to one lane this month as construction crews perform striping operations.  This will be a moving operation with intermittent lane restrictions.

Crews will be striping from the St. Francois/Jefferson County line to the Wayne/Butler County line.     

Weather permitting, work will take place through Friday, August 30th from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day.

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI ROAD TO BE CLOSED THROUGH NOVEMBER FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT

Route K in Pemiscot County will be closed for multiple months as contractor crews perform a bridge replacement over Main Ditch District No. 8 near Hayti.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, the bridge is located between County Road 255 and County Road 261.

Officials say that work is underway on the project with completion anticipated by Monday, November 11.

Wednesday, August 7, 2024

POPLAR BLUFF CITY MANAGER RESIGNS

Poplar Bluff City Manager Matt Winters has turned in his resignation.

The Poplar Bluff City Council accepted the resignation during a city council meeting on Monday, August 5th.

Winters has taken the position of City Administrator for the City of Jackson and will stay on as Poplar Bluff City Manager through September 20.

Winters began his career with the City of Poplar Bluff in March of 2018 as City Planner and was appointed City Manager in July of 2020.

WELLS AND STUCKER WIN NOMINATIONS FOR BUTLER COUNTY COMMISSION

Only a couple of votes were the difference in who was nominated for the Butler County Commissioner.

Unofficial results from the Butler County Clerk show that Larry Wells won the Republican nomination for Butler County Commissioner for the Western District by two votes over his nearest challenger, Kenny Barker.

For the Eastern District, Ralph Stucker won the Republican nomination for Butler County Commissioner.

Butler County had a turnout of 24.39 percent for the primary election.

RIPLEY COUNTY SHERIFF UNSEATED DURING PRIMARY ELECTION

Ripley County will have a new Sheriff.

Incumbent Ripley County Sheriff Mike Barton was defeated during Tuesday's primary by Rad Talburt, who easily claimed the Republican nomination with almost 80 percent of the vote.

For the Republican nominations for Associate County Commissioners, Gary Emmons was selected by voters for the Eastern District and Keith Whiteside was chosen for the Western District.

Donna Barnett won the race for the Republican Public Administrator nomination and Steve Collins was nominated for Doniphan Township Committeeman.

INCUMBENTS HAVE MOSTLY GOOD NIGHT IN STODDARD COUNTY

Incumbents had a mostly good night Tuesday in Stoddard County.

Sheriff Carl Hefner held off challenger Thomas Forkum to claim the Republican nomination for Sheriff. Brent Stidham also easily won his race for Coroner nomination.

Wes Howard was able to unseat incumbent Carol Jarrell for the nomination for Stoddard County Commissioner for District #2.

It was a bad night for incumbents in Wayne County.

Kyle Shearrer defeated Dean Finch for the nomination for Wayne County Sheriff.

Beverly Finch also lost her reelection bid for Wayne County Assessor to challenger Frances Huitt.

USE TAX ISSUE FAILS IN CARTER COUNTY

Carter County voters have shot down a use tax issue.

On Tuesday, a Carter County question that would have imposed a local use tax was voted down 819-376.

Carter County Republican voters nominated Gary Rector for the County Assessor position. For the Carter County Commissioner Republican nominations, Tom Wilder won the race for the Eastern district by 19 votes, while Erik McSpadden was selected for the Western District.

In Dunklin County, Nick Darter won a close contest for the Republican nomination for Sheriff. James Powell easily claimed the Republican nomination for Coroner.

DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER OPENS IN DEXTER

A joint Disaster Recovery Center is now available in Dexter.

The center is located at the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission Building at 105 East North Main Street in Dexter. It will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. until further notice.

DRCs are a one-stop shop for disaster survivors who have applied with FEMA and need to present additional documentation or just have questions about the status of their cases.

In addition to FEMA staff, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will be on hand to help survivors apply for low-interest disaster loans to help fund recovery efforts.

Survivors are encouraged to apply with FEMA before visiting a DRC to get the process going as quickly as possible. For those who need help to apply, DRC staff can assist survivors on the spot. For those who are blind or low-vision, or Deaf or hard-of-hearing, assistive devices are available at the centers as well.

More information is available at www.DisasterAssistance.gov.

CONGRESSMAN JASON SMITH TO TAKE ON CHALLENGER RANDI MCCALLIAN FOR SPOT IN UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Republican Congressman Jason Smith will be facing a familiar foe in his race to return to the United States House of Representatives.

Smith and Democrat Randi McCallian both easily won their primaries during Tuesday’s election. They will face off in November in a repeat of the Congressional election from two years ago which Smith won with 76 percent of the vote.

For the Missouri State House of Representatives, Tony Harbison won the election for the 144th District Republican nomination, while Keith Elliott was selected by Republicans for the 153 District nomination.

Rob Mayer was chosen for the Republican nomination for Circuit Judge for Missouri Circuit 35.

KEHOE WINS REPUBLICAN NOMINATION FOR MISSOURI GOVERNORSHIP

Missouri voters have nominated Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe to be the Republican candidate for governor.

Kehoe edged out Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and state Sen. Bill Eigel to win the GOP nomination. Kehoe will face off in November against state House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, who won the Democratic nomination.

A tightly fought Lieutenant Governor race resulted in a GOP Nomination for David Wasinger along with a democratic nomination for Richard Brown.

Attorney General Andrew Bailey fought off a challenge from Trump lawyer Will Scharf to clinch the GOP nomination and, presumably, keep his seat. Elad Gross was unopposed for the Democratic nomination.

In the race for secretary of state, Republican state Senator Denny Hoskins will take on Democratic State Representative Barbara Phifer.

Incumbent State Treasurer Vivek Malek won his primary by over 20 points and will face Democratic challenger Mark Osmack.

ONE MISSOURI CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT APPROVED BY VOTERS

Missouri voters have approved an amendment to the state’s constitution.

51 percent of voters approved Constitution Amendment Number 4, which amends the Constitution to allow the general assembly by law to increase the minimum funding for a police force established by the state board of police commissioners.

Currently the only police force established by the state board of police commissioners is in Kansas City.

Voters rejected Constitution Amendment Number 1, which would have granted tax exemptions for child care facilities.

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

VOTING UNDERWAY IN MISSOURI’S PRIMARY ELECTION

Polls have opened for the Missouri Primary Election.

Voters will be deciding on nominations and propositions on both the state and local level today.

You can find your voting location online at sos.mo.gov/elections. Polls will close at 7 pm, and anyone in line to vote at that time will still get to cast a ballot.

We will be bringing election results to you live beginning at 7:30 pm tonight, thanks to Barker’s Towing and Auto Repair, on Today’s Talk 93.3 FM and 930 AM KWOC as well as streaming online at facebook.com/TodaysTalkKWOC.

TWO STATE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS TO APPEAR ON MISSOURI PRIMARY BALLOTS

Missouri residents will be voting on two state constitutional amendments during today's Primary election.

Constitutional Amendment 1 would allow places where individuals, corporations, organizations, and associations provide childcare outside of the child’s home to be exempt from property tax.

Constitutional Amendment 4 would authorize laws, passed before December 31st, 2026, that increase minimum funding for a police force established by a state board of police commissioners to ensure such police force has additional resources to serve its communities.

This amendment would authorize a law passed in 2022 increasing required funding by the City of Kansas City for police department requests from 20 percent of general revenue to 25 percent, an increase of over thirty eight million dollars.

MAN ACCUSED OF TAPING EXPLICIT PICTURES TO DISPLAY AT ROGERS THEATER

A man is facing charges after he allegedly taped explicit photos to a display at Rogers Theater.

According to a Probable Cause Affidavit, on July 27th, an employee at the business told an officer that a subject had taped sexually explicit pictures to a display at the front of the business, which was clearly visible from the sidewalk.

At the time, a large group of people, including children, were attending a movie showing inside the theater.

The officer was able to identify the subject as Tori Pennington from video footage. During an interview. Pennington admitted to posting the images.

Officers later found child pornography during a search of Pennington’s phone.

Pennington is being held in the Butler County Justice Center on charges of public display of explicit sexual material and two counts of felony possession of child pornography.

SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH KILLS FOUR IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A single vehicle crash in Northeast Arkansas has claimed the lives of four people.

According to the Arkansas State Police, the crash occurred Friday on Clay County Road 232 when a vehicle driven by 27 year old Jordan Rainwater, of Knobel, failed to negotiate a curve, ran off the roadway, and rolled over.

The vehicle came to rest upside down in a ditch.

Rainwater was killed as a result of the crash, as were his passengers, 47 year old Johnny Holt, of Lepanto, 44 year old Brian Pruett, of Blytheville, and 30 year old Jonathan Sanchez, of Trumann.

THREE FLOWN FROM THE SCENE OF A CRASH IN SOUTHEAST MISSOURI

Three people were flown from the scene of a crash Sunday night in Dunklin County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 57 year old Cornelius Van Der Westhuizen, of Gobbler, was driving on Route NN when his vehicle crossed the center line and struck another vehicle head on.

Van Der Westhuizen and two occupants of the second vehicle all suffered serious injuries and were flown to Memphis hospitals.

According to an arrest report from the Highway Patrol, Van Der Westhuizen is facing charges of driving while intoxicated and failure to drive on the right half of the roadway resulting in a crash.

POPLAR BLUFF HOUSING AUTHORITY TO HOST BLOCK PARTY

The Poplar Bluff Housing Authority will be throwing a block party tonight.

The National Night Out Block Party will be held from 5 to 8 pm at the Housing Authority on North E Street.

The event will include food, games, a petting zoo, music, family activities, and more.

Officials say that the Block Party is to promote strong police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.

Monday, August 3, 2024

COMPETITIVE LOCAL RACES IN CARTER COUNTY

Wrapping up our series on competitive local races that will be decided Tuesday during the Missouri Primary, we now turn to Carter County.

There are two races for the Carter County Commission. For the Eastern District Republican nomination, Tom Wilder will take on Paul Dunnegan and Joe Crites. In the Western District, Erik McSpadden will challenge Mike Hoerner for the Republican Nomination.

The race for the county Assessor nomination is between Gary Rector and Dustin Bryant.

Residents in Carter County will also be voting on a use tax question.

PEDESTRIAN STRUCK BY A VEHICLE NEAR POPLAR BLUFF

A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle late Friday evening near Poplar Bluff.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 49 year old Peggy Ledford, of Poplar Bluff, was hit by a vehicle on Business 67, shortly after 9:30 pm.

Ledford suffered serious injuries and was flown to a St. Louis hospital.

OZARK BORDER ANNUAL MEETING SCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 11TH

The annual membership meeting of the Ozark Border Electric Cooperative will be conducted this week.

According to a letter sent to members, the meeting will be held at 2:30 pm on Friday, August 9th at the Ozark Border Headquarters on South Westwood Boulevard in Poplar Bluff.

Voting will be conducted on multiple dates and locations this week in the leadup to the meeting. Voting and registration will be available for all members Today at the Malden Ozark Border Office, on Tuesday at the Puxico Office, on Wednesday at the Van Buren Office, and on Thursday at the Doniphan Office. Those four locations will be open for voting on their respective dates from 9 am to 3 pm.

Voting will be available at the Poplar Bluff Ozark Border Electric Headquarters on Friday from 7 am to 2 pm.

TEEN INJURED IN SINGLE VEHICLE CRASH

An area teenager was injured in a single vehicle crash Friday night.

According to authorities, the 16 year old female, from Ellington, was driving on Highway M in Butler County when her vehicle ran off the roadway, struck a tree, and overturned.

The teen suffered serious injuries and was transported to a Poplar Bluff hospital.

MAN ARRESTED ON RAPE CHARGE IN NORTHEAST ARKANSAS

A man is in custody in Northeast Arkansas on a rape charge.

According to Captain Jason Elms with the Paragould Police Department, 35 year old Alan Oliver was taken into custody Thursday on a warrant for two felony counts of rape.

The warrant alleges that Oliver forced a minor to participate in sexual acts.

Oliver is being held in the Greene County Jail and no bond information was released.

GRANT SUBMISSION TO BE TOPIC OF PUBLIC MEETING IN POPLAR BLUFF

A public hearing will be held this evening in Poplar Bluff to discuss a grant application.

The City of Poplar Bluff will conduct the hearing at 6:45 p.m., in the City Council Chambers on South Fifth Street, to discuss the city’s submission of an application for the Community Development Block Grant program.

The city is proposing to make repairs to approximately 2.25 miles of city streets. The area to be addressed includes 5th, 9th, Park, Relief, Main and N. C Streets.

The city proposes to contribute approximately $225,000 in-kind labor by city crews, with grant funds of approximately $500,000 needed to make up the balance.

For more information on the proposed project, contact Poplar Bluff City Clerk, Lori Phelps at 573-686-8620.