Region digest 08/21/04

Cape school board seeking replacement

With the resignation of member Robert Brown Monday, the Cape Girardeau School Board will begin searching for a replacement for the seven-member board. Brown is relocating to St. Louis. Cape Girardeau superintendent Mark Bowles said the board plans to accept his resignation at its regular meeting Monday, then will advertise for a new member to fill Brown's shoes. The finalists will likely be interviewed in open session at the board's September meeting before a replacement is chosen. The replacement will serve on the board until next April's election, when voters will have an opportunity to elect someone to serve for the year remaining in Brown's term.

Arraignment in Scott City killing postponed

BENTON, Mo. -- A Scott City man was scheduled to have been arraigned in Scott County Thursday morning, but his court appearance was canceled. Robert Grant is accused of stabbing to death Chad Chaney, 23, of Scott City in a fight at the Red Gate area outside the Scott City limits July 17 where some young people were having a party. Reason for the cancellation was not given. A new date has not yet been scheduled.

Suspect in Georgia killing remains in jail

CARROLLTON, Ga. -- The suspect in the death of former Jackson resident Dylan remains in the Carroll County Jail in Carrollton, Ga. Polen, 21, was found dead on a country road July 14. A spokesman for the Carroll County district attorney's office said that John Edward Woodham, 28, will remain in jail until the next grand jury is convened. If he is indicted, his next court date could be Oct. 13.

Former Columbia police officer waives hearing

COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Former Columbia police officer Steve Rios waived his preliminary hearing Friday. Rios is accused of the murder of Jesse Valencia, who was found dead June 5. His throat had been slit. Cape Girardeau County Prosecuting Attorney Morley Swingle was appointed special prosecutor in the case. Rios' next court appearance will at 9 a.m. Sept. 7 before Judge Gene Hamilton in Boone County.

Frohna man dies in Friday accident

A 20-year-old Frohna, Mo., man was killed at 1:15 a.m. Friday on Perry County Route A 2.5 miles east of Route C. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Zachary Steffens lost control of his eastbound 1999 Subaru Legacy station wagon and slid off the north side of the road. The car struck a road sign and a tree. Perry County Coroner Herb Miller pronounced Steffens dead at the scene. Young and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Rep. Emerson presented photos of new bridge

U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson, R-Cape Girardeau, appeared at the Westray Foundation's preview opening Thursday night at its new location at 1930-B Broadway. Emerson was presented with photographs of the Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge done by Cape Girardeau's Dr. Joel Ray, who recently founded the foundation along with his wife, Pat. The foundation, which is awaiting its 501(c) startup status, identifies itself as a philanthropic organization that focuses on the promotion of Southeast Missouri. It is currently involved in historic preservation, cultural and educational projects.

-- From staff reports