Stories from Tuesday, May 10, 2022

NEELYVILLE — Once a tiger, always a tiger, graduates were told Saturday as Neelyville High School celebrated the successes of the Class of 2022. Take the lessons learned and go forward to find the success and happiness that is waiting, Principal Justin Dobbins encouraged, telling students “you are awesome.”...

Butler County Health Department held its first-ever Outreach Day on May 6, and not even a constant drizzle dampened attendance. “I think it’s a great turnout for our first,” said health educator Amy Bland. The event brought in organizations including FCC Behavioral Health, Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health, Boys and Girls Club of the Heartland, South Central Missouri Community Action Agency, Women Infants and Children, Missouri Highlands Medical Clinic, Butler County Prevention Coalition and the University of Missouri Extension. ...

Veda Marie Nagy, 90, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri gained her heavenly wings, Sunday, May 8, 2022. Veda was born Feb. 29, 1932, to John “Ed” and Pearl Marie (Hanna) Hafford in Neelyville, Missouri. Veda always joked that since she was born on a Leap Year, only those birthdays counted. She went on to marry James “Jim” Nagy, he preceded her...

A Poplar Bluff man is charged with several sex crimes after he allegedly molested an underage girl in 2019. Rickey L. Pennington, 44, of the 3200 block of Oakmoore Drive is charged with the Class A felony of first degree child molestation, two unclassified felony counts of first degree statutory rape or attempted statutory rape, the unclassified felony of statutory or attempted statutory sodomy, the Class D felonies of second degree statutory rape and second degree statutory sodomy and the Class E felony of fourth degree child molestation.. ...

Southeast Missouri youth and 4-H members looking to get out of the house and have some fun might want to explore a one-day summer camp. Explore 4-H Camp is 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 4, at Camp Allen in Wayne County. The deadline to register at an extension office is Friday, May 13, and online registration is due Sunday, May 15...

Three Rivers College is holding its annual Fine Art student exhibition at the Tinnin Center Art Gallery. The exhibition is being shown until May 13. This exhibition is free to all public and the gallery doors are open from noon to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Students at Three Rivers created works of art that are full of inspiration and expressive details, according to organizers...

Part of the promise of the spring season is the wonder of new growth. Trees bloom in flowers and bud in new leaves, flowers push through the ground, and lawns come to life with green grass and wildflowers. Taming this burst of life into an organized yard and a thriving garden is the goal of many home gardeners. But for the newly initiated or those with poor past performance, where is the best place to start?...

Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center plays an integral role in Poplar Bluff and the surrounding communities thanks to the knowledgeable and compassionate people who work inside. During Hospital Week, May 8-14, we recognize and celebrate our caregivers for the difference they make each day. We are health care and our team members are energized by their work to fight illness and promote wellness for patients and our community...

The Poplar Bluff Chapter National Society Daughters of the American Revolution is collecting unserviceable United States flags for a flag retirement ceremony to be held in June. The collection point for these flags is at the Poplar Bluff Municipal Library, and any damaged flags may be taken there during regular library hours now through June 10...

Poplar Bluff Technical Career Center hosted its first signing day to provide recognition for outgoing students entering the workforce, both through apprenticeships or employment, and those advancing to a technical college in a related field. “Our overarching goal is to recognize the students who aren’t always recognized for their achievements,” stated Charles Kinsey, TCC director. ...

The American Red Cross, Pro Football Hall of Famer Jerry Rice and Suburban Propane have joined together to encourage communities to commit to a simple act with a powerful impact-giving blood or platelets for patients in need. This spring, it’s critically important the Red Cross maintains a readily available blood supply for those who rely on transfusions for treatment. ...

Ila Ellerbe won the prize for Most Realistic fashion project at the Poplar Bluff Middle School Junk to Funk Fashion show, in a dress made of Daily American Republic newspapers. She and her mother, Brittanee, used thread, Velcro and a little packing tape to construct a petticoat, bodice and waistband. Ila’s favorite part of the design was the placement of comic strips on the front and sides of her skirt...