Region briefs 6/18/04

Men offer linoleum, steal jewelry in Dexter

DEXTER, Mo. -- Two thieves in Stoddard County are as smooth as linoleum. According to a Dexter Police Department report, two white males targeted an elderly woman claiming they were linoleum salesmen. While one man distracted the woman, the other robbed her of jewelry and other valuables. Dexter police ask that anyone who has been a victim of this scam or has information concerning the two subjects call the police department at (573) 624-5512.

Juneteenth celebration Saturday at Wheatley

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- Area residents will celebrate freedom for African-American slaves while enjoying music, contests, food and fun during a Juneteenth celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Wheatley School Museum, 915 Garfield St. in Poplar Bluff. Juneteenth began in Texas when Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger of the Union Army led his troops into Galveston. On June 19, 1865, he officially proclaimed freedom for slaves in Texas. This was the final execution of the Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln on Sept. 22, 1862. Freedom from slavery took effect on Jan. 1, 1863.

Sexy billboards no longer allowed on state highways

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Missouri will be safer for motorists now that sex-themed billboards are no longer allowed along the state's highways, Gov. Bob Holden said Thursday. The signed legislation bans most billboards for businesses where workers appear nude or where more than 10 percent of the store space displays pornography. The law will also improve safety by reducing distractions to drivers, he said. It allows sexually oriented businesses within a mile of a highway two onsite billboards: one that lists the business name, address, phone number and operating hours, and a second warning minors to keep out.

-- From wire reports