Stories from Thursday, July 21, 2022

David Arthur Francisco, 65, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri passed away on July 19, 2022 at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center in Poplar Bluff. David was born on Aug. 20, 1956 to the late Alva and Ruth (Beard) Francisco. David loved spending time with all of his family. ...

With nearly half of Missouri’s 114 counties — including much of Southeast Missouri — dealing with a drought, Gov. Mike Parson took steps Thursday to accelerate the state’s response to the dry conditions. Parson issued Executive Order 22-04, which calls upon the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to activate the Drought Assessment Committee and associated drought impact teams...

The Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center Board of Trustees recognized the hospital’s hardworking staff and volunteers Thursday morning. Board Chairman Phil Santie, member Dr. John Blaich and hospital CEO Rick Naegler unveiled a plaque which reads “We will never forget your many hours of hard work and dedication, going above and beyond in selfless service and sacrifice to provide care during the COVID-19 pandemic.”...