Stories from Friday, June 15, 2012

By MELISSA MILLER SEMO News Service PORTAGEVILLE, Mo. -- Changes to some USDA programs outlined in the farm bill now on the floor of the U.S. Senate may leave some Southeast Missouri farmers without a safety net. The half-trillion-dollar Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs act of 2012 seeks to save $23 billion in part by ending direct payments to farmers and modifying crop insurance programs. The five-year legislation would replace the current farm bill, which expires this fall...

By DONNA FARLEY Staff Writer Poplar Bluff School District is once again searching for a new junior high principal. The Board of Education voted in closed session Thursday to release newly-hired Principal Justin Tarte from his contract. The search for a replacement will begin immediately and administrators hope to recommend a new candidate at the next monthly meeting, June 28, said Superintendent Chris Hon...

By DONNA FARLEY Staff Writer Additional mental health personnel are expected to be in place at John J. Pershing VA Medical Center locations in Poplar Bluff, Mo., Cape Girardeau, Mo., and West Plains, Mo., by Oct. 1. The expected five new clinicians and one support person will help Pershing better meet the needs of its patients and improve access to care, said Chief of Mental Health Services Dr. Matthew Geyer...

By DONNA FARLEY Staff Writer Poplar Bluff School District expects to operate from a nearly $44.5 million budget in the next fiscal year, which begins July 1. The proposed budget is up almost $1.3 million from the previous year. It includes total salary and benefit costs of a little more than $32.8 million...

By DONNA FARLEY Staff Writer Poplar Bluff School District expects to operate from a nearly $44.5 million budget in the next fiscal year, which begins July 1. The proposed budget is up almost $1.3 million from the previous year. It includes total salary and benefit costs of a little more than $32.8 million...

By CAROLYN SMITH Staff Writer Our country will celebrate 236 years of independence on July 4, 2012. Since then, the United States of America has been at war or involved in armed conflict for a total of 180 years. In other words, since gaining our independence, the United States of America has only been free of war or an armed conflict for 56 years. ...

By MAJOR DEBBIE MORGANFreedom has many different meanings. I would suspect that if you asked 100 different people, most likely, each of them would provide a different definition for the word "Freedom". As citizens of the United States of America we enjoy religious freedom, academic freedom, political freedom and freedom of expression and speech. ...

From Staff Reports During the American Civil War, on Nov. 9, 1861, 10 soldiers of the 11th, 18th, and 29th Illinois Regiments set up camp in Bloomfield, Mo. Finding the local newspaper's office empty, they decided to print a newspaper about their activities, which they called the Stars and Stripes. Couriers delivered the paper -- the first issue of the Stars and Stripes -- to soldiers around town...

From Staff Reports Puxico is a quiet community 51 weeks a year, but everything changes on the second Tuesday of August. The population grows, the main streets fill with carnival rides and the aroma of world famous goatburgers fill the air. Since the Puxico Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #7822 started sponsoring "Homecoming" in 1947, residents, both past and present, gather to visit with old friends and make new ones. Homecoming will begin Tuesday, Aug. 14 and run through Saturday, Aug. 18...

By CAROLYN SMITH Staff Writer Do you like day trips? Or weekend adventures? As residents of Poplar Bluff, Mo., and Butler County, we are surrounded by wonderful locations for quick get-a-ways. Regardless of which direction you want to go, there is a lot to see and do. ...

A new bishop has been called to serve the Poplar Bluff area in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Bishop Robb Bledsoe was installed Sunday, June 10, at the church house located at 2414 Katy Road. Bledsoe moved to Poplar Bluff about a year ago and has been serving as Missionary Leader in the area. He will be assisted in his calling by two councilors, Steve Richardson and Danny Pierce, both of Poplar Bluff. Bledsoe, age 59, previously served as Bishop in East Saint Louis, Ill...

By DAN K. THOMASSON Scripps Howard News Service My father was a government employee for more than two decades beginning in the late 1930s, when he helped advance the cause of public health in no small measure. It was a nation still living in the 19th century in many ways, and he and his colleagues' contribution to solving infant mortality alone was enormous. ...

By DALE McFEATTERS Scripps Howard News Service Although we won't know for sure until Dec. 22, the assertion that a Mayan calendar calls for the world to end this Dec. 21 has been pretty well debunked. Astronomers say the world will indeed end, but not for another 4 billion years, putting a real strain on mankind's reserves of procrastination. We'll get around to working up a solution to Doomsday tomorrow, maybe next week, certainly no later than Labor Day...

Every summer, the Poplar Bluff Public Library offers a variety of programs for children. This year's Children's Program is Dream Big - READ! The teen program, WE OWN THE NIGHT. Although the summer reading program began on June 1, it's not too late to join. ...

By BARBARA ANN HORTON News Editor The cool refreshing Current River draws people to Doniphan in Ripley County, Mo., to fish, float, boat and camp, while others enjoy hunting in the forests or bringing their families to visit the historic downtown area...

By GEORGE F. WILL WASHINGTON -- Because judicial decisions have propelled American history, and because a long-standing judicial mistake needs to be rectified, the most compelling of the many reasons for electing Mitt Romney is that presidential elections shape two of the federal government's three branches. ...

By JOE GAMM SEMO News Service Court documents released to the public have revealed more details about a Wednesday afternoon shootout between police and a Jackson man. Prosecutors filed five felony charges against Lawrence Anthony Guthrie, 46, after he was involved in a shootout with law enforcement in the Broadridge subdivision, officials said...

SEMO NEWS SERVICE BLOOMFIELD, Mo. -- After six years of heavily attended Independence Day festivals, the Bloomfield Board of Aldermen has elected not to host the event in 2012. Citing budgetary restraints, the board was questioned about the celebration at Monday night's meeting and gave a final no to its sponsorship...

Hannah Malone of Greenville has received a Three Rivers Opportunity Scholarship. Malone is the daughter of David and Lisa Malone of Greenville and is a 2012 graduate of Greenville R-2 High School. Malone plans to study nursing while at Three Rivers...

From Staff Reports The Optimist Club in Poplar Bluff understand the importance of youth being involved in sports like soccer and that is why they sponsor the Optimist Soccer League. Playing sports boosts a youngster's sense of self-worth and helps him or her develop athletically, academically, socially and morally...

Roland Byrd MALDEN, MO. -- Charles Roland Byrd, 89, of Risco, Mo., died Wednesday, June 13, 2012, at his residence. Mr. Byrd was born Oct. 20, 1922, in Grubbs, Ark. He was a member of Pleasantview General Baptist Church. He had served as Sunday School teacher and a member of the school board in Risco...

Gayla Lewis, Gayla Lewis, 53, of Poplar Bluff, Mo., died Thursday, June 14, 2012, at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center. The arrangements are pending and will be announced by Cotrell Funeral Service in Poplar Bluff.

Ruby Hogan Ruby Hogan, 72, of Poplar Bluff, Mo. died Thursday, June 14, 2012, at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center. The arrangements are pending and will be announced by Cotrell Funeral Service in Poplar Bluff.

Hasseltine Johnson GREENVILLE, Mo. -- Hasseltine Johnson, 89, of Shook, Mo., died in Poplar Bluff, Mo., on Thursday, June 14, 2012. A visitation will be held on Sunday at Ruegg Funeral Home Chapel in Greenville, Mo. Family visitation will begin at 5 p.m. and the public visitation will be from 6-9 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Shiloh Baptist Church in Shook, Mo. Burial will follow in Shiloh Cemetery...

Katelyn Suzanne and Josh Dewayne Ligons of Poplar Bluff, Mo., have chosen the name Nash Isaac Ligons for their 5-pound, 6-ounce son who was born at 8:26 a.m., Monday, June 11, 2012, at Saint Francis Medical Center's Family BirthPlace in Cape Girardeau, Mo. Nash was 19 inches long...

After nearly a two month search, the Poplar Bluff School District has hired its new athletic director. Kent Keith, who last coached at Thibodaux High School (La.) as the wide receivers coach in 2010-11, was unanimously approved by the school board to be the next athletic director heading into the upcoming school year...

Elda Maybee GAYS MILL, Wis. -- Elda "Rita" Maybee, 66, of Gays Mills, Wis., died Sunday, May 20, 2012, at her home with her family at her side. She was born on Dec. 20, 1945, in Pine, Mo. She lived in the area most of her life. Mrs. Maybee enjoyed being surrounded by her family and friends and loved nature...

Bessie Wilson DEXTER, Mo. -- Bessie Mae Wilson, 90, of Dexter, Mo., died Wednesday, June 13, 2012 at Cypress Point Skilled Nursing Facility in Dexter. Mrs. Wilson was born on Feb. 1, 1922, in Harrisburg, Ark. She was a member of the Liberty Hill General Baptist Church in Aid. She was a homemaker who loved taking care of her children...

Rachael Pritchett FISK, Mo. -- Rachael B Pritchett, 84, of Qulin, Mo., died Wednesday, June 13, 2012, at Westwood Hills Health Care Center in Poplar Bluff, Mo. Funeral services will be conducted at a later date under the direction of White-Sanders Funeral Home in Fisk, Mo...

Edward Halter Edward Lee Halter, 60, of Poplar Bluff, Mo., died Thursday, June 14, 2012 at his residence. Mr. Halter was born Feb. 7, 1952 in Cape Girardeau, Mo. He was of the Protestant faith, and was the manager of Long John Silvers Restaurant in Poplar Bluff for 34 years. Mr. Halter enjoyed visiting with family and friends, and working on his computer...

PORTAGEVILLE -- The season-opening winning streak of 18 games came to a conclusion for the Poplar Bluff Thunder Thursday evening. But they responded in a positive way to end the night with a split. After a 6-4 defeat to New Madrid Senior Babe in the opener, the Thunder roared to a 17-4 victory in the night cap in games that were played in Portageville...

By MAJOR DEBBIE MORGANFreedom has many different meanings. I would suspect that if you asked 100 different people, most likely, each of them would provide a different definition for the word "Freedom". As citizens of the United States of America we enjoy religious freedom, academic freedom, political freedom and freedom of expression and speech. ...

A new bishop has been called to serve the Poplar Bluff area in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Bishop Robb Bledsoe was installed Sunday, June 10, at the church house located at 2414 Katy Road. Bledsoe moved to Poplar Bluff about a year ago and has been serving as Missionary Leader in the area. He will be assisted in his calling by two councilors, Steve Richardson and Danny Pierce, both of Poplar Bluff. Bledsoe, age 59, previously served as Bishop in East Saint Louis, Ill...

Adult Fall Softball There will be a men's league and a coed league if four (4) or more teams register. League play will begin Sept. 4, 2012, at Hillcrest Park. The fees for this program are determined by the number of teams and the number of games to be played...

By CAROLYN SMITH Staff Writer Do you like day trips? Or weekend adventures? As residents of Poplar Bluff, Mo., and Butler County, we are surrounded by wonderful locations for quick get-a-ways. Regardless of which direction you want to go, there is a lot to see and do. ...

By JOE GAMM SEMO News Service Court documents released to the public have revealed more details about a Wednesday afternoon shootout between police and a Jackson man. Prosecutors filed five felony charges against Lawrence Anthony Guthrie, 46, after he was involved in a shootout with law enforcement in the Broadridge subdivision, officials said...

Roland Byrd MALDEN, MO. -- Charles Roland Byrd, 89, of Risco, Mo., died Wednesday, June 13, 2012, at his residence. Mr. Byrd was born Oct. 20, 1922, in Grubbs, Ark. He was a member of Pleasantview General Baptist Church. He had served as Sunday School teacher and a member of the school board in Risco...

Katelyn Suzanne and Josh Dewayne Ligons of Poplar Bluff, Mo., have chosen the name Nash Isaac Ligons for their 5-pound, 6-ounce son who was born at 8:26 a.m., Monday, June 11, 2012, at Saint Francis Medical Center's Family BirthPlace in Cape Girardeau, Mo. Nash was 19 inches long...

After nearly a two month search, the Poplar Bluff School District has hired its new athletic director. Kent Keith, who last coached at Thibodaux High School (La.) as the wide receivers coach in 2010-11, was unanimously approved by the school board to be the next athletic director heading into the upcoming school year...

PORTAGEVILLE -- The season-opening winning streak of 18 games came to a conclusion for the Poplar Bluff Thunder Thursday evening. But they responded in a positive way to end the night with a split. After a 6-4 defeat to New Madrid Senior Babe in the opener, the Thunder roared to a 17-4 victory in the night cap in games that were played in Portageville...

By BARBARA ANN HORTON News Editor The cool refreshing Current River draws people to Doniphan in Ripley County, Mo., to fish, float, boat and camp, while others enjoy hunting in the forests or bringing their families to visit the historic downtown area...

By CAROLYN SMITH Staff Writer East - Dorena- Hickman Ferry For those who yearn for simpler times, or who want a unique experience for children and grandchildren, why not take a ferry ride across the Mississippi River? Approximately 90 miles east of Poplar Bluff (estimated driving time-one hour, 33 minutes), the Dorena-Hickman Ferry operates during daylight hours seven days a week year round except on Christmas Day. ...

By CAROLYN SMITH Staff Writer South - Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum and Education Center, Piggott, Ark. Are you a lover of great literature or simply a history buff? Are you aware that in the 1930s, one of the most prolific and famous authors of the 20th Century often visited Piggott, Ark.? Regardless of whether you appreciated the works of Ernest Hemingway or not, it's worth the short trip-it's only 32 miles south of Poplar Bluff, Mo., a short 42 minute drive, to visit the Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum and Education Center, a heritage site of Arkansas State University.. ...

Markham Springs Recreation Area is a vacation spot for groups of any size. Located three miles west of Williamsville, Mo., off of Highway 49, Markham Springs provides space for a range of recreational activities. Access to the Black River, camping and more is provided...

Markham Springs Recreation Area is a vacation spot for groups of any size. Located three miles west of Williamsville, Mo., off of Highway 49, Markham Springs provides space for a range of recreational activities. Access to the Black River, camping and more is provided...

By CAROLYN SMITH Staff Writer East - Dorena- Hickman Ferry For those who yearn for simpler times, or who want a unique experience for children and grandchildren, why not take a ferry ride across the Mississippi River? Approximately 90 miles east of Poplar Bluff (estimated driving time-one hour, 33 minutes), the Dorena-Hickman Ferry operates during daylight hours seven days a week year round except on Christmas Day. ...

By CAROLYN SMITH Staff Writer South - Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum and Education Center, Piggott, Ark. Are you a lover of great literature or simply a history buff? Are you aware that in the 1930s, one of the most prolific and famous authors of the 20th Century often visited Piggott, Ark.? Regardless of whether you appreciated the works of Ernest Hemingway or not, it's worth the short trip-it's only 32 miles south of Poplar Bluff, Mo., a short 42 minute drive, to visit the Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum and Education Center, a heritage site of Arkansas State University.. ...

Wappapello Lake offers a range of activities designed for individuals and groups of all ages seeking any type of getaway. Activities range from hiking and hunting, to volunteer opportunities and annual events. Just in time for the Fourth of July, Ranger Willie's Wet and Wild Waterfest will be held from 10 a.m. ...

By BARBARA ANN HORTON News Editor The cool refreshing Current River draws people to Doniphan in Ripley County, Mo., to fish, float, boat and camp, while others enjoy hunting in the forests or bringing their families to visit the historic downtown area...

If you believe there's nothing to do in Southeast Missouri, think again! Below is a list of great activities you can enjoy this summer and into early fall. Music at the Malone Sikeston, Mo. Performing Arts June 29, 2012 Independence Day Festivities...

Markham Springs Recreation Area is a vacation spot for groups of any size. Located three miles west of Williamsville, Mo., off of Highway 49, Markham Springs provides space for a range of recreational activities. Access to the Black River, camping and more is provided...

By CAROLYN SMITH Staff Writer South - Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum and Education Center, Piggott, Ark. Are you a lover of great literature or simply a history buff? Are you aware that in the 1930s, one of the most prolific and famous authors of the 20th Century often visited Piggott, Ark.? Regardless of whether you appreciated the works of Ernest Hemingway or not, it's worth the short trip-it's only 32 miles south of Poplar Bluff, Mo., a short 42 minute drive, to visit the Hemingway-Pfeiffer Museum and Education Center, a heritage site of Arkansas State University.. ...

By CAROLYN SMITH Staff Writer West - Big Spring, Van Buren, Mo. and Alley Spring, Eminence, Mo. If north, south or east doesn't appeal, perhaps, you'll take the advice of America author, Horace Greeley, and Go, West! Fortunately there is much to see and do as you drive west. ...

By SYD HAYMAN Staff Writer Wappapello Lake offers a range of activities designed for individuals and groups of all ages seeking any type of getaway. Activities range from hiking and hunting, to volunteer opportunities and annual events. Just in time for the Fourth of July, Ranger Willie's Wet and Wild Waterfest will be held from 10 a.m. ...

By CAROLYN SMITH Staff Writer West - Big Spring, Van Buren, Mo. and Alley Spring, Eminence, Mo. If north, south or east doesn't appeal, perhaps, you'll take the advice of America author, Horace Greeley, and Go, West! Fortunately there is much to see and do as you drive west. ...

By SYD HAYMAN Staff Writer Wappapello Lake offers a range of activities designed for individuals and groups of all ages seeking any type of getaway. Activities range from hiking and hunting, to volunteer opportunities and annual events. Just in time for the Fourth of July, Ranger Willie's Wet and Wild Waterfest will be held from 10 a.m. ...

If you believe there's nothing to do in Southeast Missouri, think again! Below is a list of great activities you can enjoy this summer and into early fall. Music at the Malone Sikeston, Mo. Performing Arts June 29, 2012 Independence Day Festivities...

By CAROLYN SMITH Staff Writer West - Big Spring, Van Buren, Mo. and Alley Spring, Eminence, Mo. If north, south or east doesn't appeal, perhaps, you'll take the advice of America author, Horace Greeley, and Go, West! Fortunately there is much to see and do as you drive west. ...

If you believe there's nothing to do in Southeast Missouri, think again! Below is a list of great activities you can enjoy this summer and into early fall. Music at the Malone Sikeston, Mo. Performing Arts June 29, 2012 Independence Day Festivities...

By CAROLYN SMITH Staff Writer West - Big Spring, Van Buren, Mo. and Alley Spring, Eminence, Mo. If north, south or east doesn't appeal, perhaps, you'll take the advice of America author, Horace Greeley, and Go, West! Fortunately there is much to see and do as you drive west. ...