Dexter, Missouri -Southeast Missouri may expect a treacherous start to 2013. The National Weather Service at Paducah, Kentucky has issued a winter weather advisory for Scott, New Madrid and Mississippi counties beginning this afternoon and overnight. At this time there are no watches or warnings.
According to the weather service, “a mixed bag of winter precipitation” is expected for our region.
Other counties in the area including Stoddard County will see rain; however with the dropping of temperatures freezing rain may be expected. This will make driving conditions after dark somewhat treacherous for the New Year’s Eve holiday.
Everyone should be aware of the changing weather conditions as they may be out late celebrating. Most of the wintry weather will be north into the Cape Girardeau area where they will see a 70% chance of snow mixed with sleet or ice.
Have a Happy New Year and please be safe this holiday season!
Stoddard County, Missouri - You still have a few hours left to pay those Personal Property Taxes. Just remember there are penalties for paying late.
The Stoddard County Collector's Office will be open until 4:30 pm New Year's Eve.
You may pay your taxes in person at 312 South Prairie St in Bloomfield, Missouri or you may pay by mailing in your payment to Carla Moore, Collector of Revenue, Stoddard County Courthouse, P.O. Box 80, Bloomfield, Missouri 63625.
If you have questions or need directions, please call 573-568-3327.
Dee Loflin, SMT Writer
Travel conditions may become hazardous as snowfall increases into the evening hours. Temperatures will be near 32 degrees. Be prepared for snow covered roads and limited visibility while traveling.
Try to be prepared for weather-related emergencies, including power outages. Stock food that needs no cooking and store water in clean containers. Always have battery operated devices, such as flashlights, a NOAA Weather Radio and lamps. Keep extra batteries handy along with a first aid kit and cat litter or sand for icy walkways. Just a few items will go a long way once the power goes out.
Written by
Dee Loflin, SMT Writer
Dexter, Missouri - Did you buy a live tree this year for Christmas? Don’t know what to do with your tree after the holidays? The Dexter Parks and Recreation Department has the solution.
They encourage residents to recycle their Christmas Trees, saving landfill space and disposal costs. They are accepting real Christmas Trees at the Dexter Pool parking lot now until the end of January.
You may bring your real tree and drop it off during the daylight hours. The trees must have all decorations, ornaments, tinsel, lights, and stands removed. These trees will be used as fish habitats and as shelter in the Dexter City Lake located on One Mile Road.
For more information about the Christmas tree drop-off site and program, contact the Dexter Parks and Recreation Department at 573-624-8244.
Submitted by
Dee Loflin, SMT Writer
Sikeston, Missouri – If you thought the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) only performed highway maintenance and graded the roads during blizzards then you need to read about these wonderful MoDOT employees. For over 25 years, the Missouri Department of Transportation has helped grant Christmas wishes to Southeast Missouri families through the Christmas Angels Program.
“This program began decades ago with a crock pot of chili and the desire to help at least one child, “ said Transportation Project Designer Jeff Wachter. “With the help of area businesses, organizations and individuals, the program has grown. This year, we sold 1,495 bowls of chili and received many generous donations.”
Jeff said that the $6,173 raised during this year’s event provided Christmas wishes to 120 Southeast Missouri children. MoDOT volunteers work with the Department of Family Services to identify needy children in the area.
“The program has grown locally and many businesses and organizations purchase chili for their employees,” said Kathy Hixson who is the Senior Design Technician at MoDOT. “Participants receive a hot lunch and help needy families at the same time.”
This event is a great example of teamwork. Current MoDOT employees and retirees work together and volunteer their time during the busy holiday season. Businesses or individuals wishing to donate to the Christmas Angels program may send or drop their donations by the Division, 10 Highway Employees’ Credit Union Office, located at 337 North Main Street in Sikeston, Missouri. Checks can be made out to the Christmas Angels Program. For more information about the Christmas Angels program, Contact Jeff Wachter at 573-472-5294 or Kathy Hixson at 573-258-0932.
