Local News

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released a number of reports. On Wednesday, June 23rd, a deputy conducted a traffic stop in the 1000 block of North Highway 19. As a result of the stop, a 34-year-old Salem man was arrested for driving while having his license revoked or suspended, a 1st offense. The man was transported to the Dent County jail where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. The next day, on the 24th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop at the Highway 72 and Highway PP intersection. At that time a 19-year-old woman from Salem was arrested for operating a motor vehicle on a highway without a valid license, a 1st offense. She was transported to the Dent County jail where she was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. On Friday, the 25th of June, a deputy conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Highway 72 and County Road 3180. During the stop, a 24-year-old Raymore man was arrested for possession of marijuana. The man was transported to the Dent County jail where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. Also arrested during the incident was a 27-year-old man from Belton for active warrants. The Belton man was transported to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. On Sunday the 27th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop in the 500 block of East Roosevelt Street. During the course of the stop, a 22-year-old Salem woman was arrested for possession of a controlled substance except 35 grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid. The woman was transported to the Dent County jail where she was fingerprinted, issued summons and released. If you have any information regarding an ongoing investigation, please call the Dent County Sheriff’s office at 729-3241.

The City of Salem wants the public to know that utility bills for consumption from 5/15/2021-6/15/2021 included the once-a-year charge of the state’s water primacy and sewer fees. Information about the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ fees is available at: https://dnr.mo.gov,. The bills also reflected the 5% rebate adjustment for accounts paying the 2/8/2021-5/15/2021 consumption bill by the due date. Anyone who hasn’t received their bill or that has questions about their account is asked to contact the utility office. They also want to remind everyone that penalties and disconnects for non-payment will go back into effect July 15, 2021. Payment or arrangements for the 5/15/2021-6/15/2021 consumption bill must be made by July 22, 2021 to avoid penalties, and by 5 pm August 5, 2021 as printed on the bill to avoid disconnect. Bills also indicate they serve as the first and final notice. The Utility Office will use a combination of channels to inform customers with balances of the upcoming dates and options to avoid penalties and disconnects. On August 6, 2021 the city will start performing disconnects for non-payment and the number of accounts to be disconnected will not be known until that time. Electric service can be disconnected remotely in the utility office with water disconnects requiring a service person to go onsite to perform the disconnect.

The University of Missouri Extension is presenting a Home Food Preservation workshop on pressure canning this Saturday, July 17th at the Salem Community Center@The Armory from 10:00 in the morning until noon. The Home Food Preservation series is comprised of six workshops that focus on safe and correct food preservation methods in the home setting. This session is hands-on where participants will learn to pressure can mixed garden vegetables. Each participant will leave with a pint of canned vegetables. The cost of the workshop is $25. You can register at extension.missouri.edu and type in pressure canning in the search bar. If you have questions or need more information, contact Rachel Buenemann at 573-458-6260 or call the Dent County Extension Office at 729-3196.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says a rise in speeding and other reckless driving behaviors continues to be a disturbing trend in 2021. During the first six months of this year, more than 450 people lost their lives in a crash on Missouri roadways. The primary causes are all too common and include excessive speeds, during 2021, Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers have issued more than 16,000 citations to drivers traveling 20 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit which is a 9% increase from the same time period in 2020. Following the August 2020 repeal of the all-rider helmet law, motorcyclist fatalities are up 33% and the number of unhelmeted riders killed in crashes increased from two in the first six months of 2020 to 31 so far in 2021.As the state nears the halfway point of the “100 Deadliest Days”, those days between Memorial Day and Labor Day when traffic fatalities are most prevalent, it’s imperative to be mindful of safety every time you’re the roadways. Doing so may mean the difference between life and death. Missouri’s strategic highway safety plan, Show-Me Zero, provides information and strategies all Missourians can use to promote four key messages: buckle up, phone down, slow down, and drive sober. More information can be found at www.savemolives.com.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is currently recruiting and accepting online applications to fill an academy class of conservation agent trainees. Successful candidates will undergo 26 weeks of intense training in all facets of law enforcement and resource management and conservation stewardship. Upon graduation, newly commissioned conservation agents receive a county assignment and become the face of conservation in their communities fairly enforcing the Wildlife Code of Missouri to promote voluntary compliance and serving the public “off the beaten path.” You can get more information on essential agent job duties, education requirements, experience and knowledge needed, required skills and abilities, physical abilities required, pay and benefits, how to apply, conditions of employment, and more online at jobs.mdc.mo.gov. To learn more about the job, contact MDC Protection Branch Major Brian Ham at 573-751-4115, ext. 3819 or Brian.Ham@mdc.mo.gov.

The comment period on the Ozark National Scenic Riverways’ draft Roads and Trails Management Plan (Draft Plan) has been extended to August 18th for public input. The plan is available for review and comment at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/OZAR_RTplan. You can also download the Draft Plan includes detailed maps and an environmental assessment illustrating a No-Action Alternative and two Action Alternatives. The No-Action Alternative reflects a continuation of current management practices, as established in the 2014 General Management Plan. The two Action Alternatives were created based on public and stakeholder feedback gathered earlier in the planning process and represent alternative approaches for addressing issues identified in the plan, while also meeting desired conditions for managing the park’s roads and trails. The National Park Service has selected Alternative B in the Draft Plan as their preferred alternative for implementation. Superintendent Jason Lott stated that with the release of the draft Roads and Trails Management Plan, Ozark National Scenic Riverways is in the final phase of a complex planning process. The Roads and Trails Management Plan will establish a network of roads and trails that is clearly mapped, more sustainable, and that will allow visitors to safely enjoy the park’s resources through a variety of recreational activities, while still protecting those resources for future generations. For those who prefer to review printed copies of the Draft Plan, they will be made available for review at the public libraries in several local communities, including Salem and Rolla. The public comment period for the Draft Plan will now end August 18th. The comments will be analyzed to determine if there are any adjustments needed and then an alternative will be selected for implementation. The public is encouraged to download and review the plan and provide comments online. Comments will also be accepted through the mail to Superintendent Jason Lott, Ozark National Scenic Riverways, P. O. Box 490, Van Buren, Missouri 63965. As always, we look forward to hearing from the public and encourage all to visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/. For more information, please contact Dena Matteson at (573) 323-4814 or dena_matteson@nps.gov.

The Missouri Senior Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program that provides benefit vouchers to low-income seniors who are 60-years of age or older is now available in Dent, Crawford and Phelps County through the Mid Missouri Aging Best office. Eligible seniors will receive 10 vouchers with a value of $5.00 each for a total of $50 each year they can be used to purchase fresh, raw, unprepared foods grown in Missouri and that includes fruits, vegetables, honey and cooking herbs. The vouchers may be used now until October 31st or earlier if your local farmer’s market closes before Octobers 31st. You have until September 30th to get your vouchers and they can be used at any Farmer’s Market that is part of the program. The maximum household income to qualify for the program is 185% of the poverty level for a single person with incremental income levels for those with multiple family members. A senior may also qualify if they participate in the SNAP program or Community Supplemental Food Program. Seniors can also name a proxy on their behalf to apply for and purchase foods on their behalf. The program application must be signed by both. For more information about the Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program for Dent, Crawford or Phelps County, contact Aging Best at 573-443-5823. The program is also available in Shannon and Texas counties through the Springfield Senior Age Agency on Aging by calling 417-862-0762.

The Ozark National Scenic Riverways will host a series of one-day workshops about the basics of fly fishing on July 22nd, and August 19th at the Akers Visitor Center. These free workshops are limited to 10 participants for each date and reservations are required. Park ranger Mark Van Patten will demonstrate various fly rod casting techniques, proper catch and release techniques, and strategies for fly presentation. Instruction will also include lessons on aquatic entomology (fish food), recommended equipment, reading the water, and understanding flies. Fly rods and reels will be available for those who do not have their own. The book “Fly Fishing A-Z” will be provided. The clinics are expected to last the full day. Participants should bring a valid Missouri fishing permit and trout stamp, fishing vest, waders,
hat, sunglasses (polarized preferred), sunscreen, bug spray, lunch and bottled water. For more information and to make reservations for one of the workshops, please contact the Round Spring Ranger Station at (573) 323-8093. All participants at the workshop should be prepared to practice social distancing as needed. If you are not yet fully vaccinated, masks are required when social distancing cannot be maintained.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors met Tuesday evening at 6:00 at the Dent County Firehouse. The budget was reviewed with a balance in General Revenue of $196,570.41 as of June 30th. The monthly reimbursement report was not available as new software is being installed and old files are being imported into the new program. Chief Nash discussed the upgrade of the new Emergency Reporting Software. He noted that training had been held on the new software with the department’s key personnel. He also stated that the new Toughbook computers were loaded with the software and set up awaiting installation in the trucks. Chief Nash said that he would be meeting this week with ATT FirstNet to discuss the connections of the Toughbook computers to the network. Chief Nash also reported to the Board that the department renovation is still in progress with touchup painting due to be completed this week. After painting is complete, it is just a matter of getting all fixtures back into place to continue operations. The Board then toured the department to check the progress and updates of the renovation. Treasurer Dave Wells noted to the Board that a Tax Levy Hearing would need to be held next month to set the tax rate for the year 2022. He said he would try to set the meeting up to coincide with the regular general meeting if possible so the date for the next meeting may change depending on when the tax information is received from the state. Before adjourning the tentative date was set for the next meeting to be Tuesday, August 1st at 6:00 at the fire station at #2 South Main Street.

A one vehicle accident happened Monday afternoon just after 4:00 in Madison County on Highway 72 about 5 miles west of the city of Fredericktown. According to the highway patrol report a 2010 Hyundai Accent being driven by 28-year-old Aaron Harrison of St. James ran off the left side of the road and struck a bridge. Harrison was transported by Madison County Ambulance to Madison Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries. The Hyundai was totaled and removed from the scene by D&D Towing. The report went on to state that Harrison was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports the statistics from the 2021 July Fourth holiday counting period. During the period, Troopers worked 312 traffic crashes, which included 124 injuries and seven fatalities. Troopers also made 144 DWI arrests and 81 drug arrests over the holiday weekend. State troopers on area lakes and rivers worked 12 boating crashes, which included four injuries and one fatality. Troopers made eight BWI arrests and 43 drug arrests. There were no drownings over this years’ holiday weekend. During last years’ counting period, 15 people were killed and 671 injured statewide in Missouri over the holiday in 1,356 traffic crashes. Troopers arrested 145 people for driving while intoxicated last year. Over the 2020 July Fourth holiday, there were 14 boating crashes, which included seven injuries and zero fatalities. Two drowned during last year’s holiday while troopers made seven boating while intoxicated arrests.

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces the results of the Driver and Vehicle Safety Division’s 2021 annual school bus inspection program. Missouri’s 2021 school bus initial inspection results showed that 10,807 were approved, 822 were rated as defective, and 264 were rated as out-of-service. Those buses found defective require repair within 10 days. Buses placed out-of-service require correction of the component(s) prior to further usage. A total of 277 Missouri school districts earned the Patrol’s Total Fleet Excellence award in 2021. During the 2021-2022 school year, 5,738 buses in these award-winning fleets are eligible to display the Patrol’s Total Fleet Excellence sticker in the lower corner of the first window on the passenger entry side of the bus. The Missouri State Highway Patrol personnel had a successful inspection of 11,893 school buses occurred in accordance with state statutes. In Dent County, Oak Hill R-1 had 5 buses presented and 2 were approved, while 2 were defective and 1 was placed out of service. Green Forest R-2 had 7 buses presented for inspection and 5 were approved, while 1 was defective and 1 was placed out of service. Northwood R-4 had 6 buses inspected and 4 were approved, while 1 was found defective and 1 was placed out of service. Dent-Phelps R-3’s 8 buses were all approved as were R-80’s 11 buses earning both schools the opportunity to display the Patrol’s Total Fleet Excellence sticker. Missouri school bus inspection results are a matter of public record. Individual school district results for 2021 are available on the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s website.

A Community Garden educational workshop will be held tonight at 6:00 at the Salem Community Garden at 801 East Scenic Rivers Blvd behind the Salem Methodist Church. Tonight’s workshop will be on canning and food preservation. The workshop is free and open to the public. Workshops are held every second Thursday of the month through October at the Salem Community Garden. For more information, call Sara at 729-3196.

The Crawford County Sheriff’s office has received and acted upon several leads in the Terry Barton missing person case. Mr. Barton had been reported missing to the Crawford County Sheriff’s Department on June 8th and his disappearance was being investigated as suspicious. There were two persons of interest in reference to his disappearance and the efforts to locate Barton had been ongoing. On Wednesday, June 30th, the criminal investigation division was able to develop the possible location of two persons of interest, Beau Dyer and Eric Ray. Crafword County deputies and members of the Steelville Police Department responded to an address within the city limits of Steelville for the two men. Shortly after the officer’s arrival, both Dyer and Ray were located and transported to the Crawford County Sheriff’s Department, at which time interviews were conducted with both subjects. From those interviews, information was developed to locate Terry Barton who was found to be deceased. Both Dyer and Ray are being held at the Crawford County Detention Center pending the application of warrants.

The July Fourth weekend is a great opportunity to enjoy one of Missouri’s national parks, recreational opportunities or a backyard barbecue. Colonel Eric T. Olson, the superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, reminds Missouri’s travelers to make smart choices for a safe July Fourth holiday. Safety should be at the top of the list when you plan on how you’ll celebrate our nation’s freedoms. During the 2020 counting period, 15 people were killed and 671 injured in Missouri over the holiday in 1,356 traffic crashes. Over the 2020 July Fourth holiday, troopers arrested 145 people for driving while intoxicated. The 2021 counting period for the July Fourth holiday will be from 6:00 this Friday night until to 11:59 Monday night, July 5th. No matter how you decide to spend the long weekend, your smartest choice is to follow all Missouri traffic laws as the Missouri Highway Patrol will again participate in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort). All available troopers will be patrolling Missouri roadways to enforce traffic laws, and offering assistance as needed. Anyone needing assistance or who witnesses criminal activity while traveling on Missouri’s roadways can contact the nearest Highway Patrol troop headquarters by calling the Patrol Emergency Report Line at 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. Motorists may call 1-888-275-6636 to check for road construction along their travel route.

The Salem Arae Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual Independence Day Parade Sunday, July 4th at 6:00. The parade’s theme this year is “Show-Me-Missouri, Celebrating 200 Years” and this year’s Grand Marshals are Aleesha and Mike Elwood. The parade route will start at the SBU campus at Franklin and Grand and move east on Franklin to MacArthur. The parade will then travel north to 4th Street and then head east to the courthouse square. As of Thursday afternoon, there were over 60 entries for the parade. Following the parade, the City of Salem fireworks display will be held at The Commons starting around 9:30. The events are free and open for all to attend. If you will not be able to attend the parade, KSMO Radio will stream the parade LIVE on their website at www.ksmoradio.com by clicking the “Listen On-Line” button on their homepage. You can also watch it on Facebook on the KSMO Stream Page: https://www.facebook.com/KSMO-Stream.

Deer hunters can apply online through the Missouri Department of Conservation’s website for a shot at more than 100 managed deer hunts throughout the state this fall and winter. MDC offers managed deer hunts for archery, muzzleloading, crossbow, and modern firearms from mid-September through mid-January at conservation areas, state and other parks, national wildlife refuges, and other public areas. Some managed deer hunts are held specifically for youth or for people with disabilities. The managed deer hunt application period is now through July 31st. Hunters are selected by a weighted random drawing. Draw results will be available August 15th through January 15th, 2022. Applicants who are drawn will receive area maps and other hunt information by email, or mail if an email address is not located on the customer’s account. You can get more information on managed deer hunts, preview hunt details at mdc.mo.gov/managedhunt. Details about managed hunts can also be found in the MDC “2021 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information” booklet, available starting in early July at MDC offices and nature centers, from permit vendors around the state, and online at mdc.mo.gov.

The Salem Police Department has released some reports. On Saturday, the 5th at close to midnight, officers were dispatched to the 100 block of North Hickory for a report of a possible drug overdose. Officers arrived and found that the subject was not overdosing but did have active warrants for his arrest out of the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office. As a result, a 42-year-old Salem man was arrested and incarcerated. On Wednesday the 9th around 3:00 in the afternoon, an officer was dispatched to the 700 block of North Washington for a report of trespassing. Upon arrival it was found that there was a disturbance between parties and one subject had possibly fled the scene. A further investigation was conducted, and a 32-year-old woman from Lenox was arrested and placed on a 24-hour hold for assault. Around 5:00 the next afternoon, an officer was dispatched to the area of Walmart for the report of a domestic disturbance in a vehicle between two individuals. Upon arrival and with a further investigation, it was found that a man had assaulted his girlfriend in the car and the incident was caught on camera. A 27-year-old man from Salem was arrested and placed on a 24-hour hold. During the evening of Friday, the 11th near 10:00, an officer was dispatched to Casey’s on Highway 19 for a report of a suspicious person. Officers arrived and located the subject in question and knew there was an active warrant for his arrest. The warrant was confirmed, and the 28-year-old Salem man was arrested and incarcerated on his warrant. On Wednesday morning, June 16th near 9:00, officers were conducting sex offender compliance checks throughout the town. One address on the 800 block of East Gibbs was checked and the registered subject was not located at the residence. Further investigation showed the male subject had moved and did not report that address as per his registration. As a result, the 53-year-old Salem man was arrested and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. Finally, the next morning at around 9:00, an officer conducted a traffic stop near the Ranch Motel for a traffic violation. During the stop it was found the driver had an active warrant for their arrest. As a result, a 33-year-old man from Iberia was arrested for having an active warrant out of Jefferson County, Missouri. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

The Doe Run Company announces the promotion of Matthew Wohl, current vice president of law and general counsel, to president of the company, effective today, July 1st. The move coincides with the retirement announcement of Jerry Pyatt, the president and CEO, which will be effective December 31st, 2021. Wohl will take on the additional role of CEO beginning January 1st, 2022. Pyatt, a 43-year veteran of the industry, began his career with Doe Run’s predecessor, St. Joseph Lead Company. Pyatt’s impressive career started with a brief stint in the laboratory and quickly advanced through various leadership and management positions before he earned the role of COO in 2001, and president and CEO in 2012. Also promoted to the executive team as vice president of mining and milling is Brian Mangogna. Joining Doe Run in 1998 as a metallurgist, Mangogna advanced through the company’s milling department to become general manager of the Southeast Missouri Mining and Milling Division (SEMO) in 2019. With a bachelor’s degree in metallurgical engineering from the University of Missouri – Rolla (now Missouri S&T) and a master’s degree in business administration from Webster University, Mangogna oversees six mines, four mills and five water treatment plants as part of the company’s lead, zinc, and copper mining and concentrate production.

The City of Salem will be doing curbside yard waste pick-up next week starting Tuesday. Items that will be picked up by the city include limbs and branches that are cut to a length of 4 feet or less, and grass that is bagged in recyclable leaf bags which can be purchased at the city utility office $2.50 for ten bags. The city will pick up yard waste that has been properly bagged, cut, and placed at the edge of the curb or sidewalk. They ask that you do not block the sidewalk or place items in the street. The city of Salem reserves the right to charge for exceptionally large volumes of yard waste or to recommend removal by a private company. Items that will not be picked up include appliances, household trash, tires, electronics, lumber or building materials, furniture, or recyclables. Items must be ready and set out for pickup in July on Tuesday, the start of the first full week of the month. For more information, call the city at 729-4811.

The Salem License Office will be closed today through July 5th. They will reopen on July 6th at 8:00 AM. Customers needing immediate assistance can visit one of the area license offices in Rolla, Ellington, Viburnum, or Cuba.

The July Fourth weekend is a great opportunity to enjoy one of Missouri’s lakes and rivers. Colonel Eric T. Olson, the superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, reminds Missouri’s travelers to make smart choices for a safe July Fourth holiday. Safety should be at the top of the list when you plan on how you’ll celebrate our nation’s freedoms. In 2020, there were 14 boating crashes, which included seven injuries and zero fatalities. Two people drowned during last year’s July Fourth holiday. Troopers made six boating while intoxicated arrests over last year’s July Fourth holiday weekend. The 2021 counting period for the July Fourth holiday will be from 6:00 this Friday night until to 11:59 Monday night, July 5th. The Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation Dry Water over the July Fourth holiday weekend. Operation Dry Water specifically targets impaired vessel operators. All available troopers will be patrolling Missouri waterways to enforce boating laws and offering assistance as needed. Missouri’s boaters are asked to do their part by remaining alert for other boats and swimmers, and being courteous on the water. With more boats on the water, it is even more important to pay attention when operating your vessel. Never operate a vessel if you’ve consumed alcohol. Boaters need to be aware that it is illegal to discharge fireworks from a vessel. Leave all fireworks in a safe place on shore. Watercraft operators must consider the effect their actions have on others: Share the waterway and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Life jackets save lives. Wear It!! Anyone needing assistance or who witnesses any criminal activity while traveling on Missouri’s waterways can contact the nearest Highway Patrol troop headquarters by calling the Patrol Emergency Report Line at 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone.

An accident involving a Salem woman occurred Monday morning at 11:53 on Interstate 44 at the 186-mile marker eastbound entrance ramp to the highway. According to the highway patrol report, a 2012 Chrysler Town and Country driven by 35-year-old Jason M. Flyzik of St. Clair, struck the rear of a 2015 Chevy Cruze driven by 22-year-old Chiara M. Nicholls of Crocker. The Cruze then struck a 2011 Kia Sorrento driven by 45-year-old Jody R. Kimrey of Salem. After being hit, the Chevy Cruze traveled onto eastbound I-44 and struck a 2018 Ram 1500 driven by 38-year-old Bryce Burke of St. Louis, forcing the Ram into a 2015 Buick Enclave driven by 78-year-old Teodorico Mendoza of Schaumburg, Illinois. Chiara Nicholls suffered moderate injuries, while her infant son had minor injuries. They were both transported to Phelps Health in Rolla by Phelps Ambulance. Also suffering minor injuries was Jody Kimrey of Salem and she was taken by the Phelps Ambulance to Phelps Health. The 2012 Chrysler Town and Country sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by Dishman’s Towing. The Chevy Cruze sustained moderate damage and was towed from the scene by Big Boys Towing. The other three vehicles had minor damage with the Ram and Buick being driven from the scene, while the Kia was secured roadside. The report stated that everyone involved in the accident was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident.

In the early morning hours of Tuesday, June 15th, officers with the South Central Drug Task Force, in coordination with the Missouri State Highway Patrol and Shannon County Sheriff’s Department, concluded a series of long-term narcotics investigations in Shannon County, Missouri. As a result of these investigations, 17 suspects were arrested for delivery of a controlled substance. The arrest teams consisted of members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Shannon County Sheriff’s Department, Oregon County Sheriff’s Department, Dent County Sheriff’s Department, and Mountain View Police Department. A temporary detention facility was provided by the city of Winona, Missouri. A total of 27 charges were made for the delivery of a controlled substance with three individuals having three charges, four having two charges and the rest of those arrested each having one charge. These charges are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of these charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction.

With the Fourth-of-July weekend coming up, the Missouri Department of Conservation encourage people to look for red, white, and blue in nature through a holiday hike, bird watching, backyard fun, fishing, and other outdoor activities. MDC offers some suggestions to get started finding red, white, and blue in nature like Red Royal Catchfly Flowers, White Beard-Tongues or Foxgloves, White Great Egrets, Blue False Indigos, and male Indigo Buntings. If you want more information on these and other Missouri plants and animals, including where to find them you can use the handy and helpful MDC online Field Guide at mdc.mo.gov. You can also check out GreatMissouriBirdingTrail.com for a list of the best-of-the-best places to birdwatch in Missouri, and more.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the courthouse. Shawn Bolerjack , Race Director of the Honor Our Heroes Marathon, requested the closing of Dent County Road 2300 from 6:45 until 7:30 the morning of November 20th. This part of the road was needed so the marathon could be certified by the United States of America Track and Field organization. The request was approved by the commission. In the road report, District One Commissioner Wes Mobray stated grading would be done on Dent County Roads 4160 and 5020, and possibly 6010 and 6590 if the crews can get the grader to work. Mobray stated brush would be cut on county road 4210 and materials would be added to county roads 6055 and 6250. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson wanted thank Commissioner Mobray for cutting a path between three downed trees on county road 5225 at the end of Route E. Work crews on Monday completed the cleanup. Larson said grading would be done on Dent County Roads 3333, 4060 and 4477 while brush would be cut on county roads 2300 and 3230. Larson reported the county receive about $18,000 from the Department of Conservation for the white rock they used on roads going into the conservation areas. He also said a hydraulic hose on brush cutter #9 was being replaced. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles stated he attended an Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management Full Council meeting on June 15th and heard a presentation by Scott Volner from Catalytic Innovations in Rolla how they are able to remove minerals out of the battery recycling that can help plants. Skiles said those interested in submitting a waste recycling grant this year can apply beginning July 1st. A workshop will be held on July 28th that will be available by Zoom to help those preparing the grant application. The applications MUST be submitted by noon on August 20th at the MRPC offices. Skiles also indicated Brady Wilson of Rolla Recycling was again elected Chairman with Skiles re-elected Vice-Chairman of the council. He said he would be attending the IDA Board meeting tonight at 6:00 and on Wednesday, there will be a Broadband meeting at the Salem Community Center@The Armory from 10:00 in the morning until noon. This is being put on by the MRPC and is relevant to Dent County only. Skiles prepared a letter that was approved by the commission to send to Governor Mike Parson asking him to veto Senate Bill 53 that raises Sheriff’s salaries in relation to those of a federal judge. The burden of the salary increase would fall directly upon the county and becomes another unfunded mandate created by the state that could affect the jobs of other law enforcement offices. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley presented to the commission a Resolution from the Missouri Ethics Commission that establishes a procedure for certain elected officials to disclose any possible conflict of interest they may have with them holding office. The county clerk, presiding commissioner, prosecuting attorney and judges must file these forms every year. Curley said she attended the South Central Region County Clerks meeting at West Plains last week where a number of issues were discussed, mostly on election laws. The commissioners approved a technical assistance contract from the MRPC regarding the distribution of the ARPA Funds as Salem has already received the first payment of those funds, but as of yet, there is no clarification of what these funds can be used for. The commissioners also approved a Resolution on the removal of the private gate from Dent County Road 4128. Skiles discussed with the commissioners that the distribution of COVID funds will come to an end on June 30th. They approved that any money left in the fund as of that date would be transferred by the treasurer to the LEST Fund based on the request by the Sheriff’s Department last year. The amount left is around $4,000. The board receive one bid for chip and seal work and that came from Blevins Asphalt from Mt. Vernon for $259,142.40 That came in under the budgeted amount of $260,000 and was approved by the commission. At the last meeting, the commission heard from Great Rivers Associates about the two FLAP projects. The Cooley bridge is 90% complete on permits and the right of way access has been signed. Bid openings will begin in September and construction will begin in October. The Tan Vat Road overlay will need more surveying and Commissioner Mobray recommended to stay within the road and put in more guardrails on the cliff edge curves with more signage. The projects will have a bid date of January with work to begin in February. Also, Steven Patterson wanted to remind everyone to comment on the Ozark National Scenic Riverways trails and riverways proposal before July 18th. The courthouse will be closed on Monday, July 5th for Independence Day and the commissioners will not be meeting that day.

Dent County Collector Shannon VanKirk wants to remind anyone who still has delinquent real estate taxes from 2018 that you will need to pay them IN FULL by TOMORROW, June 30th, during regular business hours from 8:00 in the morning until 4:30 in the afternoon. If you fail to do so, then on July 1st, the taxes from 2018, 2019 and 2020 will be declared due by August 20th, 2021. If not paid by then, your parcel will be sold at the Delinquent Tax Sale that will be held on Monday, August 23rd. Check payments are no longer accepted so you will need to pay with cash, cashier’s check or money order. If you are not sure this applies to you or you do not understand how the system works, you need to call the Dent County Collector’s Office immediately so that it can be explained to you. Call the Dent County Collectors Office at 573-729-3911 with any questions you may have or stop by the Dent County Courthouse. Starting July 1st, there will be an additional $25 per parcel added to the tax bill to pay for advertising costs in the Salem News. Remember, only the taxes for 2018 need to be paid IN FULL by Tuesday, June 30th to give you another whole year to pay the other outstanding years.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will hold a special meeting Wednesday morning, June 30th, by Zoom at 11:30. After approval of the agenda and a resignation, the Board will adjourn and move into Executive Session to discuss personnel.

Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley reported on three cases heard in Dent County on Monday, June 21st in front of Judge Michael Randazzo in the 42nd Judicial Circuit Court. In the first case heard, Tina Lingner of Salem had her probation revoked and was sentenced to serve seven years in the Department of Corrections as requested by the state. Christine Rightnowar of Raymondville then pled guilty to felony charges for passing bad checks to Country Mart and was sentenced to serve three years in the Department of Corrections as requested by the state. In the last case heard Monday, Justin Miller of Birch Tree who previously had pled guilty to the distribution of meth and the possession of meth back in 2020, was sentenced to serve 10 years in the Department of Corrections under RSMO Section 559.115 that provided for a shock incarceration of 120 days. Miller had requested probation while Prosecutor Curley sought the ten-year sentence under Section 559.115.

The Salem Police Department has released their report for the month of May. They served eight summonses to appear in court, gave out 57 warning tickets, and nine traffic tickets, plus they also served 13 fugitive warrants and two city warrants. The department investigated seven traffic accidents, wrote four property damage reports, 11 stealing reports, and investigated an identity theft. The department investigated a charge of driving while having a license revoked or suspended, two resisting or interfering with an arrest, a violation of an exparte or full order of protection, a possession of a controlled substance, three possession of drug paraphernalia as well as three domestic violence reports, investigated a trespassing report, a peace disturbance, and conducted one death investigation. The department also investigated two sex offenses, and one unlawful use of a firearm. There were 18 males and 12 females arrested during the month of May.

The Missouri Senior Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program that provides benefit vouchers to low-income seniors who are 60-years of age or older is now available in Dent, Crawford and Phelps County through the Mid Missouri Aging Best office. Eligible seniors will receive 10 vouchers with a value of $5.00 each for a total of $50 each year they can be used to purchase fresh, raw, unprepared foods grown in Missouri and that includes fruits, vegetables, honey and cooking herbs. The vouchers may be used now until October 31st or earlier if your local farmers’ market closes before Octobers 31st. You have until September 30th to get your vouchers and they can be used at any Farmer’s Market that is part of the program. The maximum household income to qualify for the program is 185% of the poverty level for a single person with incremental income levels for those with multiple family members. A senior may also qualify if they participate in the SNAP program or Community Supplemental Food Program. Seniors can also name a proxy on their behalf to apply for and purchase foods on their behalf. The program application must be signed by both. For more information about the Seniors Farmers Market Nutrition Program for Dent, Crawford or Phelps County, contact Aging Best at 573-443-5823. The program is also available in Shannon and Texas counties through the Springfield Senior Age Agency on Aging by calling 417-862-0762.

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the Independence Day Parade will be held on Sunday, July 4th at 6:00 PM. The theme will be “Show-Me-Missouri, Celebrating 200 Years” with Ahleesha and Mike Elwood as the grand marshals. The Chamber WILL BE assigning lineup positions for this parade after they did not last year, so participants need to contact the chamber to get their lineup position. The Line-up begins at 5:15 Sunday afternoon. The parade will follow the normal parade route going east from the corner of South Grand and Franklin, north on MacArthur, then east on 4th Street just past the Courthouse. Those who want to participate need to fill out a parade form and submit it no later than Thursday! You can drop it off at the Salem Chamber of Commerce Office at 1136 South Main in the Crossroads Shopping Center, fax it in at 573-729-6741 or e-mail it to chanber@salemmo.com. Call 729-6900 and talk with Tabitha if you have any questions or stop by the Chamber of Commerce office.

Missouri State Parks invites the public to participate Learn2 Paddle kayaking classes offered at select parks this summer. The program is for anyone who wants to experience kayaking but is not sure where to start. It is also perfect for those who want to get out on the water but don’t own a kayak. In the Salem and Dent County area, the Current River State Park will host two-hour kayaking classes on Saturday, July 10th from 10:00 until noon, and on Friday, August 6th from 1:00 until 3:00. The Missouri State Parks will provide the kayaks, paddle, life jackets and instructors. Participants must be at least 10 years of age. Children 14 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the entire program. Participants should be comfortable around water. All Missouri State Parks rules and regulations apply. This is a family-oriented program; alcohol and tobacco products are not allowed while participating in the Learn2 Paddle program. The class registration fee is $5 per participant; registration is required. For registration information, visit mostateparks.com and click on their Learn 2 button under Topics. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.