Local News

The Dent County Chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace will have its next Community meeting today at 5:30 in the afternoon.  All are welcome to join at the Salem Community Center@The Armory in the Rotary Room. Bedding, as well as monetary donations may be dropped off at Riverways Federal Credit Union in Salem.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse. Jeff Chronister with Ollis/ Akers/Arney insurance came in to review the insurance policy limit and deductible changes with the commission as this year they are going with MO-Perm. Chronister described the changes by department such as the change in the deductible on physical damage to road vehicles went from $5,000 to $1,000; and the General Liability deductible went from $1,000 to $10,000. He also said the county properties that includes the annex, courthouse, extension building and more went from a 20-million-dollar blanket coverage with a $25,000 deductible, to 25-million-dollar individual coverage with a $10,000 deductible now. The commission reviewed all the vehicles and equipment that is to be covered to make sure it is accurate. The change in the insurance carriers this year saved around $40,000 in the annual premium. Grant  Wilson from Jason Smith’s Rolla office was in attendance and said Smith discussed the new Trump Accounts for newborn children where $1,000 is deposited in an account for the child to help them get started saving in their lifetime. This was accounted for in the Big Beautiful Bill  passed last year. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said crews will be out checking and treating roads where needed. He stated a crew is doing maintenance work in the shop as they are working on a grader fuel issue and checking out the equipment. They also took a truck to Gahr Truck and Equipment in St. James for repairs. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams said workers were putting sand treatment on roads where needed and working on truck #122’s spreader. Williams reported they are also cutting up wood for heat at the road and bridge shed. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said he attended a meeting of the Dent County Opioid Settlement Committee at the judicial building Thursday night. He also said MoDOT would be holding an Open House for discussion on a new bridge on Highway 32 at Boss at the Quad County Fire Protection Firehouse on February 3rd from 4:30 until 6:00. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported on her MAC Board meeting held last week. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be this morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

The Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors held its regular meeting Tuesday evening at 7:00 in the Doctor’s Library. The agenda was approved; however, approval of the meeting minutes was tabled pending revisions. During the review of departmental policies and procedures, approval of the infectious disease policies was tabled until the next board meeting, pending updates and clarification of the hospital’s employee vaccination policy. All policies and procedures were approved, with board member Zach Moser casting the sole dissenting vote. With no public comments or scheduled presentations, Hospital CEO Brooke Bollman presented her report. She highlighted the hospital’s participation in the Rural Health Partnership Institute hosted by Stroudwater, as well as informational meetings with the Missouri Independent Hospital Network. Bollman also provided updates on marketing and recruitment efforts and the Helping Hands Auxiliary program. Bollman reported that filing for the hospital’s board of directors election closed on December 31, 2025, with Karen Brown duly elected without opposition to represent District One. Brown is scheduled to be sworn in on April 28, 2026. Bollman also noted that beginning February 1, 2026, the hospital will revert to in-house billing. For the month of December, the hospital recorded 60 inpatient admissions, 952 outpatient registrations, 544 emergency room visits, and 187 ambulance runs, all of which were down from the previous month. Total operating revenue for December was approximately $2.2 million, while total operating expenses were about $2.6 million. Postage and freight expenses increased significantly, totaling $7,239.51 in December, up from $3,356.02 in November. Bollman attributed the increase to tariffs and indicated that these costs are expected to continue rising. Overall, the hospital reported a deficit of $356,914.66, marking the second consecutive month with a deficit. Bollman stated she is actively working with financial staff to identify solutions. The hospital currently has 20 days of cash on hand. Net 340B revenue for December totaled $44,625, representing a decrease of approximately $66,000 from the previous month. Following approval of the financial reports, Chief Nursing Officer Amber Hogan presented her report, which included updates on the EMT-B program, implementation of a new MedSurg acuity tool, nursing defensive documentation training, and medication drip protocols. Hogan reported that the Long-Term Care and Emergency Department are fully staffed, while vacancies remain in EMS and MedSurg. In December, the hospital recorded five new hires and four departures. During the Quality Improvement report, Kendra Mobray stated that the hospital’s focus for the first quarter of 2026 will be improving patient care and safety. Under new business, Bollman provided an update on the hospital’s five-year strategic plan. A vote on the plan was tabled until the next meeting pending the addition of a clearly defined mission statement. The board unanimously approved hiring a recruitment firm to fill the Lab Director position. No specific firm was named, and Bollman was authorized to negotiate with multiple firms and select the one deemed to be in the hospital’s best interest. After approving medical staff privilege reassignments, Bollman reported that she has been researching grant opportunities through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) that could allow the hospital to provide childcare allowances through reimbursements. She also stated that legislators have requested the hospital develop a priority list for capital improvements and infrastructure needs. Bollman plans to hold future discussions with staff to identify priorities and determine the best use of potential funding. With no items to discuss in executive session, the meeting adjourned. The next regular meeting of the Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors is scheduled for February 17 at 7:00 in the Doctor’s Library and is open to the public.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen meeting that was scheduled for Tuesday, January 27th, has been postponed until the next regularly scheduled meeting date which will be February 10th at the Salem City Hall Auditorium.

Dent County Opioid Fund Disbursement Board Chairman Rick Letchworth has called a meeting of the Dent County Opioid Settlement Committee at 6:00 tonight at the Dent County Associate Courtroom at 112 East 5th Street. After the roll call and approval of previous meeting minutes, the agenda calls for the reading of the applications for funding that were received before the committee will accept questions and comments from applicants. The committee will then discuss the applications and determine which ones should be approved for funding. The committee will then set future application for funding deadlines and set the next meeting date for future applications approval before adjourning. The Dent County Opioid Settlement Committee meeting tonight is open to the public.

The Salem Police Department has released two reports that occurred in the last few days. The first report was in regard to the arrest of a Salem woman on a felony arrest warrant which occurred on January 23rd. According to their report, three Salem Police patrolmen conducted a short-term investigation into the whereabouts of a wanted fugitive. The officers responded to the 300 block of East Fourth Street where they located the subject and identified her as Alexis Alguilar. Alguilar was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Dent County Jail. Alguilar had an active probation violation stemming from the original charge for the Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and is currently being held without bond. In the second report that occurred on January 27th, a Salem Police patrolman and detective conducted a short-term investigation regarding the whereabouts of a wanted fugitive related to a prior narcotics investigation. Officers responded to the 400 block of West Ninth Street where they located the subject and identified him as David Howell. Howell was taken into custody and transported to the Dent County Jail. Howell had failed to appear in court on the charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance and Keeping or Maintaining a Public Nuisance. Howell is currently being held without bond. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has released the following statistics from this past weekend’s winter storm. According to the release the patrol responded to 1,437 calls for service and assisted 289 stranded motorists. They responded to 207 minor crashes that resulted in 30 injuries. The patrol stated that there was one fatality crash, but it was not related to the weather.

The Missouri Department of Conservation reminds hunters that portable tree stands must be removed from conservation areas by February 1st. This applies to areas where black bear, deer, or elk hunting is allowed, allowed by special-use permit, or except as otherwise authorized in the Wildlife Code of Missouri. According the Wildlife Code, only portable tree stands are allowed on conservation areas, and only from September 1st through January 31st. Unattended stands must be plainly labeled on a durable material with the full name and address, or conservation number, of the owner and must be removed from the area before February 1st. Use of nails, screw-in steps, and any material or method that would damage the tree is prohibited. Any tree stand found on conservation areas after February 1st may be removed and seized as evidence by conservation agents until an owner can be determined or a court order for its disposition can be obtained. Get more information on the Wildlife Code of Missouri from MDC online at mdc.mo.gov.

Signups for the City of Salem Park and Recreation Department’s Youth Soccer program are going on now for $35 per person until February 6th. Planned age divisions are four and under, six and under, eight and under, ten and under, 12 and under and 14 and under. To sign up, go to the Salem Park and Recreation Facebook page and find the link to Teamsnap to register your child online. Late registration begins February 7th and will last until February 13th and there will be an additional $10 charge. If you have a problem getting registered, e-mail Park and Recreation Director Melissa Dubois at salemparks@salemmo.com.

The Dent County Commission held a quick regular meeting and 2026 budget hearing Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. Before the hearing, Commissioners Keith Green and Jimmy Williams reported road crews were out grading and treating roads to make sure they are all drivable. Jack Todd from Victor Heating and Cooling, LLC wanted to thank the road crews for doing a fantastic job on the roads making it possible for repair personnel to get to those people who need services performed during these extremely cold days. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson had nothing to report and called to order the budget hearing. Larson reported the General Revenue Fund ended 2025 with net cash available at $2,759,096.93. The estimated revenues for 2026 are $2.371 million dollars while estimated expenses for 2026 are expected to be $2.892 million dollars. This would result in an estimated ending balance of $2,238,303.33 as of December 31st, 2026.  The Road and Bridge Fund ending cash balance in 2025 was $781,311.46. The commissioners have estimated revenues in 2026 at $3.440 million dollars, and estimated expenses of $3.417 million dollars. This would result in an estimated ending balance of $803,628.92 at the end of 2026. The county is still expecting reimbursements from FEMA for the expenses incurred for road repairs from the rains of 2025 but are still not sure when to expect them. The Assessment Fund ending balance for 2025 was $91,000.66. The estimated revenues for 2026 came to $246,975.00, and with estimated expenses of $313,914.67, an estimated ending balance at the end of 2026 of $24,060.99 would be expected. The Law Enforcement Sales Tax (LEST) Fund ending balance in 2025 was $1,003,610.92. With estimate revenues in 2026 expected to be $1.411 million dollars and estimated deductions of $1.690 million dollars, this should leave an estimated ending balance of $723,815.04 at the end of 2026. The 9-1-1 fund had an ending balance of $50,034.73 in 2025. With expected estimated revenues of $34,000 in 2026 and estimated expenses of $29,700, there would be an expected ending balance at the end of 2026 of $54,334.73. The Jail Construction and Operations Fund finished the 2025 year with cash available of $2,625,543.15. The fund is expected to have revenues in 2026 of $2.504 million dollars, and with estimated expenses of $2.762 million dollars, that would leave an estimated ending balance of $2,367,560.67 at the end of 2026. The Jail Construction Trust Fund finished 2025 with an ending balance of $1.672 million dollars. The commissioners estimated revenues of $1.217 million dollars, and with anticipated expenses of $1.360 million dollars, that would leave the fund with a projected ending balance of $2,200,804.31 at the end of 2026. A question was asked if there was money put into the 2026 budget to cover the cost of adding an elevator to the courthouse as asked for by 42nd Judicial Circuit Judge Megan Seay and Commissioner Larson said there was not. He stated the commission will be investigation whether the elevator should be built onto the old courthouse or be part of a new courtroom that would be built next to the jail. The commission will be meeting with a representative from Hart and Associates out of St. Louis soon to see where the county stands with their current jail fund balances, and what process they would need to do to meet to construct the new ADA courtroom. The budget for 2026 was then approved unanimously by the commissioners. At a special meeting held Friday, January 23rd, the commission met to discuss and sign an agreement with Mid-Missouri Emergency Solutions, LLC, to provide emergency management services and oversight for Dent County in line with state statutes. After discussion, the commission approved and signed the agreement. The hearing was then adjourned.

The Salem Memorial Hospital ToRCH Community Leadership Board is excited to announce Capacity Building Grant funding available through the Transformation of Rural Community Health (ToRCH) Project. These grants are designed to enhance the capacity of our community partners to support the goals identified by the ToRCH initiative. The ToRCH Community Leadership Board will be awarding grants to address gaps in available services within the community. These grants are intended to enhance the capacity of community partners whose work supports the goals identified by the ToRCH initiative and directly benefits individuals and families served by Medicaid. Funding will be awarded to address gaps in services that impact access, quality, and outcomes for the Medicaid population, particularly in rural settings where smaller-scale operations may face resource limitations. Grant funding may be used to strengthen organizational capacity through expanded staffing, facility improvements, equipment purchases, and solutions to logistical or operational challenges. Priority areas for funding include Community Service; Transportation; Behavioral Health Access; Diabetes Prevention; Food Insecurity; Maternal/ Child Health; Obesity Prevention; Primary Care Access; and Quality of Life. As of January 19th, grant proposals will be accepted year-round. Proposals will be evaluated and voted on either individually or during quarterly review cycles, based on the importance and time sensitivity of each submission. A total of $250,000.00 is available. For further information or to request an application, please contact Sarah Arnett, ToRCH Program Manager, at sarnett@smdh.net. 

The 2026 Salem High School Art Club calendars are available at the circulation desk! These calendars feature amazing artwork from our community’s talented students and are just $15.00 each.  All money from the sale of the calendars goes to the Salem High School Art Club.

The Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors will hold their regular meeting tonight at 7:00 in the hospital’s library. After the call to order, roll call and approval of the agenda, the board will approve policies and procedures from several departments including: Cardiopulmonary, Family Medicine Clinic, Dietary, Revenue Cycle, Infection Prevention, and Nursing Services, as well as approving the credit card and Telehealth policies. Public comments or presentations that are limited to 3 minutes will then be heard. Chief Executive Officer Brooke Bollman will present her report as well as the previous month’s financials. Following the financials report, the board will hear reports from the Chief Nursing Officer, Human Resources, as well as Quality Improvement. No old business is on the agenda, however new business to be conducted includes discussion about the Salem Memorial Hospital Employee Handbook, the 2026-2031 strategic plan, laboratory director recruitment, and approval of medical staff privileges. The board will go into executive session to discuss personnel and legal issues. Except for the executive session, the meeting of the Salem Hospital Board of Directors is open to the public. Anyone that would like to attend by telephone or electronic means should contact the SMH Administration office at 573-729-6626 Extension 4005.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will meet for their regular meeting tonight at 6:00 in the Old City Hall Auditorium at 202 North Washington. Following the approval of the agenda and the consent agenda, the board will hear public comments. In new and miscellaneous business, the Annual Net Metering Report will be considered. The second reading of Bill No. 3695 will occur, followed by the first and second readings of Bill No. 3696 approving Change Order No. 2 for the Salem Wastewater Treatment Facility Phase 2 Improvements Project, Bill No. 3697 approving Change Order No. 2 for the City of Salem Water System Improvements-Contract B, Elevated Storage Tank Project, and Bill No. 3698 approving Change Order No. 3 for the City of Salem Water System Improvements-Contract C, Pitless Well Project. The reading of bills will be followed by reports from City Officials. The Board of Aldermen will then go into Closed Session, followed by adjournment.

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) thanks Missourians for staying off the roads during this weekend’s winter storm. It’s estimated that traffic volumes were 75–80% lower than normal throughout the state over the weekend. That cooperation allowed crews to respond more quickly and safely, contributing to significantly fewer serious incidents. MoDOT Director Ed Hassinger said we are grateful to everyone who did their part by staying home and giving our crews room to work. Our teams have been out continuously in extremely cold conditions, and their efforts – combined with the public’s cooperation – helped keep this storm’s impacts from being far worse. People staying off the roads was probably the single most important thing that allowed us to make the progress we’ve made so far. As we head through these next few days, please continue to plan ahead, slow down and consider delaying travel if you can. As of Monday morning, MoDOT crews had already traveled more than 1 million miles in response, working around the clock to clear highways. Despite the storm’s severity, Missouri recorded just one weather-related traffic fatality statewide – well below average for a storm of this magnitude, and notably below the average for a typical weekend in Missouri. Over the next few days, MoDOT will continue working around the clock. Major routes should continue progressing toward mostly clear conditions, but many secondary roads may remain covered. If you must travel, plan your commute, leave early, and drive for conditions – take it slow and brake, steer and accelerate gently. Check local road conditions before heading out at traveler.modot.org. Carry extra fuel and pack essentials – blankets, warm clothes, water, snacks and a phone charger. If you slide off the road or are involved in a crash, remain inside your vehicle with your seat belt fastened until help arrives. And remember give snowplows and emergency vehicles plenty of room – do not tailgate or attempt to pass. For more information, call MoDOT at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org. To receive the latest statewide news and text alerts, sign up for e-updates. Follow MoDOT on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube.

The Dent Health Center (DCHC) Board of Trustees met Thursday evening, January 22nd at 5:00. The 2026 Health and Benefits plan proposed by Administrator Zach Moser was reviewed. Changes from last year include offering two-tiers of insurance to provide employees with options. Dental and vision stayed the same. A 30% employee premium share was suggested. The proposal was reviewed, discussed and approved by the board. Current CDs and CD rates were evaluated. The board moved to purchase a $200,000 CD from MOSIP at 4% interest. The meeting was adjourned at 5:08.

Congratulations go out to Mrs. Jennifer Rensch who was selected as the Salem R-80 District January 2026 Teacher of the Month, and to Mrs. Kathy Grover who was selected as the Salem R-80 January 2026 Staff Member of the Month. In total, there were thirty-seven nominations submitted from throughout the district from other members, parents, students, and community members to highlight contributions made by nominees designed to support student learning in every aspect.

The Dent County Commissioners have closed all offices at the Dent County Courthouse, Judicial Building and Annex due to the snow, but the commissioners are going to meet at 10:00 this morning in their office at the courthouse for the 2026 county budget hearing which is open to the public. All access to the courthouse will close after the hearing is adjourned. Also, Judge Michael Randazzo has closed all courts in all the counties served by the 42nd Judicial Circuit Court.

The cold from Winter Storm “Fern” remains which has brought us single-digit temperatures and wind chills well below zero this week, causing very high electric demand across the country. If the City of Salem sets a new Peak Demand for total electric use this morning from 6:00 to 11:00, the city will pay higher electricity costs for the next 12 months. Potentially impacting electric rates for in the future. The city would appreciate your help by safely conserving electricity by lowering your thermostat a few degrees if safe, turn off lights and electronics you are not using, and delay doing laundry, dishwashers, and other large appliances to off peak hours. Everything little thing you do to hold down your electric usage helps protect our electric system and control future costs.

The Dent County Health Center (DCHC) Board of Trustees met Thursday evening, January 15th at 5:00. Administrator Zach Moser presented the Service and Statistics report for the month of December. In the Communicable Disease Report, he stated there were 5 cases of COVID-19 reported, while the active lead cases were reported at 70, plus 4 communicable disease cases. There were 22 Influenza A cases, 3 animal bites were reported, and there were 19 screenings for sexually transmitted infections, resulting in 70 total tests. The December environmental report showed there where 24 total inspections or re-inspections conducted. The Maternal-Child Health (MCH) statistics showed there were 11 car seats distributed, there was  one Show-Me Healthy Women appointment, no CPR Courses, no consultation for Childcare Health, and there were 14 Title X appointments reported. There were two Presumptive Eligibility (Temporary Medicaid), while there were 330 WIC appointments. The Community-Specific Services Summary showed 568 total appointments other than WIC, 154 total provider appointments, 206 treatment court visits, 152 lab appointments and 56 immunization appointments. Nurse Practitioner Service Details showed one Show-Me Healthy Women appointment, 9 family plannings, 3 well-child visit, no other well-woman exam, 5 other physicals, 10 SEMO physicals, plus 34 other visits, and 93 acute illness appointments for a total of 154 visits. Laboratory details showed 155 Lab Draws, 8 appointments for Rapid Test for COVID, Flu, RSV or Strep, 6 pregnancy tests, 6 lead tests were reported, plus 12 other urine drug screenings. Phlebotomy appointments totaled 123, while all Lab appointments totaling 152. Immunizations for December showed 19 for COVID-19 and 37 for Influenza, plus 19 other vaccines given during 56 appointments. In the Administrator’s report, Moser announced the first Gala date is set for April 24th. He said that during December a number of back payments from the state were received, but that DCHC still came in under the threshold for a Federal Single Audit. Jessica Ricks provided a detailed written report regarding the activities of the Population Health Department. Moser reported that due to the loss of the CareCab driver those services are on hold until a new driver can be hired. He said that the cases of Flu are increasing with some reporting the highest number since 2019. The financial reports for December were reviewed. Current assets at the end of November were $1,263,492.87. Total assets were $2,106,002.85, total liabilities were $362,004.21, and equity was $1,721,062.36. Revenue for December was $251,501.32; expenses were $105,590.54 for a net operating revenue of $126,213.88. After other revenue and expenses, net revenue was $123,024.60. The report from H&R Block was also reviewed. After discussion the financial report was approved. The proposed bylaw changes were reviewed and approved by the board. Resolution 2026-001 regarding Policy-Procedure Governance adoption was reviewed and approved. The new Policy Manual was reviewed, discussed, modified, and approved with changes. During new business Zach presented a Cybersecurity grant that DCHC had been approved for over a year after applying for it. The context around the grant plan had changed since the application was submitted and it was not in the budget. Motion was made, seconded and passed to accept the grant and modify the budget accordingly after Zach determines that the grant still meets DCHC operational needs. The Board entered closed session at 6:20 to discuss personnel. At 6:41 the Board returned from closed session having discussed personnel and taking no votes. Prior to adjournment the next regular meeting date was set for Thursday, February 19th, 2025, with the hearing for the Environmental Fees starting first at 5:00. The hearing was moved to February because the public was not adequately notified by the January meeting.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse. Dennis Cooksey who lives on Dent County Road 4055 came in to discuss that road not being graded or cared for to the degree it used to be in the past. Cooksey started the discussion with Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson who was the district two commissioner years ago, and Cooksey said the road care changed while he was commissioner. Their discussion centered around a failed arrangement to widen the road and the installation of gate on that road on the Cooksey property. Since Commissioner Larson no longer has any say over the roads, Cooksey moved his discussion to District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams and told him the gate is gone and showed him aerial photographs of where the road used to be taken care of by the county. Williams said he will check with the assessor’s office and/or recorder’s office to see if there is an easement for the road given to the county by the property owners for the area being discussed and get back to Mr. Cooksey. Dent County Deputy Canyon Goodbar reported the Local Violent Crime Prevention Grant submitted by the sheriff’s office was approved for $21,128.87 for the purchase of new radios. This is a reimbursement grant, and the commission signed the grant paperwork. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams presented the CART receipts for the month of January. She stated the county received $88,205.91 and that is down $3,245 from the December 2025 receipts, and higher than the January 2025 receipts by $2,672. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said rock is being stockpiled in preparation for the anticipated winter storm, and the trucks and graders are being prepared with salt spreaders and blades. Green said fuel bids for 7,500 gallons of diesel fuel were taken and County Fuels had the low bid of $2.22 per gallon that beat the bids of Phil-Mart and MFA Oil. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported grading is being done on Dent County Road 4060 while other equipment is being readied for the projected storm. Williams did say crews are also replacing signs on county roads 2520 and 2530. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said he attended a tourism tax committee meeting where two applications were partially funded and four reimbursements approved. Larson also said he had to attend an emergency meeting at the MRPC office in St. James concerning the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District as legislation has been introduced at the state level to eliminate all the solid waste management districts statewide. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley was not in attendance due to her attending the Missouri Association of Counties Board meeting, but she wanted to remind everyone Monday morning at 10:00 in the commissioner’s office will be the 2026 county budget hearing. The 2026 county budget is available at the county clerk’s office in paper form and is free to anyone who would like to have one You can also contact the office at 573-729-4144 and they can e-mail the entire budget to you. The hearing Monday morning is open to the public. The next regular meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and it is open to the public. 

With accumulating snows expected, remember there are certain streets within the city limits of Salem that have been designated as emergency “Snow Routes.” These streets shall have priority over other streets for the clearing of snow, ice or other debris. The streets are marked with “Snow Route” signs. A list of the snow routes is available only at salemmo.com. Remember to remove your vehicle from these routes when an accumulation of ice and snow is expected so that the route can be cleared. Your car or truck could be towed at your expense, or you could be sited for a parking violation. If you have any questions, call the Salem Police Department at 729-4242.

Wednesday in front of Judge Michael Randazzo in the 42nd Circuit Court in Dent County, Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley recommended the termination of Anthony Nicholls of Rolla from alternative treatment court. A probation revocation hearing was then held where arguments were heard to continue probation for Nicholls, but the judge revoked his probation and sentenced him to serve seven years in the Missouri Department of Corrections as requested by Prosecutor Curley. Also on Wednesday, Judge Randazzo ruled on the previous probation for the possession of a controlled substance and tampering with a motor vehicle by Christopher Black from Salem. The probation was confessed and revoked, and Black was sentenced to serve seven years in the Missouri Department of Corrections as requested by the prosecutor.

As the bulk of credit card bills start rolling in from your December Christmas purchases or travels, make sure that you review your statements carefully to make sure the charges are accurate and have the correct amount. Many people who use their credit devices extensively over the holidays for shopping and other everyday uses open the door for scammers to be able to target innocent people like you. If you find fraudulent charges, contact your credit card company immediately or if you have online access, question the charge on your statement. You have 30 days to stop payment on that charge. If you use a debit device and discover unwarranted charges against your account, contact your bank immediately as you do not have a 30-day grace period like you do with a credit card to dispute the charge. With a debit device, the money has already been removed from your account. Federal law limits your liability to $50 if you report the charge within two business days, while waiting up to 60 days can make you liable for up to $500. If you don’t report it by then, you may be liable for the full amount. Report the fraudulent charge to your bank right away via phone and/or in writing, and report any unauthorized charges on your statement within 60 days to avoid losing more money. Also, trending scams show that scammers are now capable of taking a personal device and authorizing payments from people’s phones. Make sure your apps have multi-factor authentication like biometrics and one-time-passcodes required to access and transact. Protect yourself and stay vigilant to protect your accounts and make 2026 a great year!

Each January, EPA seeks to raise awareness of radon exposure during National Radon Action Month, encouraging residents to protect themselves and their families by having their homes tested for the presence of radon. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that cannot be seen, smelled or tasted. If left untreated, radon can build up indoors, leading to adverse health effects. After smoking, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., taking the lives of approximately 21,000 Americans every year. Radon exposure is a preventable health risk, and testing for radon can help prevent prolonged exposure. It is estimated that on the average, one in three homes in Missouri have dangerously high level as of radon. You can check the EPA’s website to view a map of Radon Zones for Missouri. The EPA recommends taking action to fix your home if you discover radon levels above 4 picocuries per liter. If your home does have elevated levels of radon, a qualified professional can install a system to lower your indoor radon levels. For more guidance on how to address radon risks, see the EPA’s radon website.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds hunters they can now use artificial light and other methods for an extended period during the coyote hunting season. Regulations changes approved by the Conservation Commission in fall 2025 allow the use of artificial light, night vision, and thermal imagery equipment from January 1st through September 30th, excluding the prescribed spring turkey hunting season. The changes took effect Jan. 1, 2026. During this extended period, coyotes may not be chased, pursued, or taken during the daylight hours from April 1st through the day prior to the beginning of the spring turkey hunting season. Coyotes, except as otherwise provided in the Wildlife Code of Missouri, may be taken by hunting, and pelts and carcasses may be possessed, transported, and sold in any numbers throughout the year. Special method restrictions apply during spring turkey season, elk season and deer season. See Allowed & Prohibited methods at mdc.mo.gov. Any questions about conservation area regulations and the Wildlife Code can be directed to local MDC staff. Find local MDC staff by county at mdc.mo.gov. Find a complete list of Missouri’s hunting seasons at mdc.mo.gov.

The Shannon County Sheriff’s office reports that three people have died in a house fire near Eminence. Firefighters responded to the scene Monday morning, but investigators have not yet determined what caused the blaze. The Missouri State Fire Marshal is now handling the investigation, and authorities have not released the identities of the victims. The Shannon County Sheriff expressed gratitude to the numerous agencies that assisted with the response, including the Eminence Area Volunteer Fire Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Fire Marshal’s Office, American Red Cross, Emergency Management, the Coroner’s Office, and Mercy EMS. The sheriff acknowledged the emotional toll such incidents take on first responders and emphasized the importance of community support during difficult times, stating that the strength of Shannon County has always been found in its people.

Meramec Regional Community Foundation (MRCF) will be awarding two community grants of up to $1,000 each. Preference will be given to projects that focuses on community or economic development and projects that will assist at-risk children and/or low-income families. Any nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations, schools, faith-based organizations and governmental entities looking to address these needs are encouraged to apply. Organizations and governmental entities must be based or provide service in the Meramec Region to qualify. The MRCF has awarded grants to further local projects through its community grant program and in the 13 years since the program was initiated, $24,400 in grant funds have been awarded to 68 community projects throughout the region. The grants are made possible through the Meramec Regional Community Foundation Community Grant-making Fund, which was created by a $30,000 donation from Meramec Regional Planning Commission. A portion of the fund’s earnings are distributed each year through grants.  Applications for the 2026 grant round will be accepted online only until 5:00 in the afternoon on February 2, 2026. For more information on this grant opportunity, contact Bonnie Prigge at bprigge@meramecregion.org or 573-265-2993.

Missouri’s 2025-2026 deer hunting season ended January 15 with a preliminary total harvest of 301,954 deer, according to the Missouri Department of Conservation. The harvest included 145,222 antlered bucks, 25,129 button bucks and 131,603 does. Top harvest counties for the overall deer season were Franklin with 6,770, Howell with 5,490 and Callaway with 5,346. Hunters harvested 275,656 deer during the 2024-2025 deer season. Deer hunting ended with the close of archery season. Hunters checked 62,203 deer during the 2025-2026 archery deer season. Top archery counties were Jefferson with 1,571, Franklin with 1,272 and St. Louis with 1,076. Last year’s archery deer harvest total was 56,516. MDC Cervid Program Supervisor Jason Isabelle said Missouri hunters enjoyed a successful season. He noted the harvest rebounded from last year’s lower total, especially across much of southern Missouri. The 2025-2026 harvest total was slightly above the five-year average and marks the sixth time the harvest total has exceeded 300,000 deer. MDC reported four non-fatal, self-inflicted firearms-related hunting incidents during the season, with one involving deer hunting and others involving other game. More information on 2025-2026 deer harvest totals by season, county and type of deer is available on MDC’s website. Past year harvest information is also available on MDC’s website.

The Missouri Department of Transportation postponed road closures for core sampling on Phelps County Route HH over Spring Creek. Originally scheduled to begin January 19, crews will now begin taking core samples at the bridge site just south of Road 29 on February 9. These dates could change. For traffic updates, call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT or visit MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map.

An accident occurred in Dent County Saturday morning at 8:00 on B Highway two miles west of Highway 72. According to the Highway Patrol report a 2016 Jeep Cherokee, driven by a 35-year-old Salem female, traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck a tree. The female suffered minor injuries and was transported by Salem Ambulance to Salem Memorial Hospital. The report stated that the woman was not wearing a safety restraint. The Jeep was totaled and removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors met Tuesday, January 13th at the firehouse for their regular monthly meeting. In the absence of the president of the board due to a funeral, a motion was made and seconded to have a Jeff Stokes act as chairman pro tem to chair the meeting. After the financial reports were reviewed, the bills, payments and statements were also reviewed and the board approved them all. The board discussed with Joe Weber the junior firefighter policy. A motion made to move forward but the motion died to a lack of a second. The board went on to discuss the CTI tower lease. A committee was formed to explore the possibilities of finding alternative ways to acquire radio tower communications. In new business, the board discussed the “Firefighter 1&2 Fire in Texas” training program and the board approved two firefighters to attend the training at a total cost of $8,000. The chief asked for four people to go to winter fire school with a limit of $2,500.00 for the firefighting instruction. The board discussed a spending limit for the chief, but that was tabled until the next meeting. The board then heard and approved the quotes from Outlaw Fabrication of Salem for handrails and stairs for safety reasons for $8,000; vent props for roof venting training for $23,878.00; and $20,000 for gear racks. In the monthly reimbursement report, Chief Thomas reported there were a total of 15 calls for the month and the year. There were eight fire calls comprised of three grass fires, three structural fires, one room and contents fire and another outside fire. The fire department responded to two motor vehicle collisions with one having injuries, a possible hazmat investigation, a medical call, a citizen assist call, a special incident call and a call that was dispatched and canceled en route. The chief informed the board the 100-Acre Wood Rally will be March 13th and 14th, and the chief will be sending two people to instructor training which is a free course. In closed session, the board voted to accept Blake Hargis as a new probationary firefighter for the district. The next board meeting was then set for February 10th at 6:00 PM AT Dent County Fire Protection District firehouse.

A 34-year-old man from Crawford County, last Wednesday, admitted grooming and engaging in illegal sexual contact with a minor. Nathaniel Rod Gibson pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of travel with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct and one count of coercion and enticement of a minor. He admitted giving the victim a phone and grooming her via more than 18,996 text messages from March 10th, 2023, to September 6th, 2023. Gibson told the victim to delete the flirtatious and inappropriate messages so that her mother would not find them. In June of 2023, Gibson drove the victim from Missouri to a campground in Arkansas, where he engaged in an illegal sex act with her. He also did so at his home in Crawford County. Gibson is scheduled to be sentenced on April 15th. The travel with the intent charge carries a penalty of up to 30 years in prison. The coercion and enticement of a minor carries a maximum penalty of 20 years. The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, the Diamond City (Arkansas) Police Department and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted the case. 

Salem Memorial Hospital Foundation’s Dancing with the Salem Stars is coming up Saturday, January 24th with showtime at 7:00 at the Salem High School Gym. Dancers have been announced and the couples are Shannon Wright and Bella Mutz, Tom and Sally Haines, Seth Maples and Rosalie Wright, Carlos Lopez and April Greener, Ryan McCoy and Lane McCoy Schafer, Luke and Hannah Heithold, Bub Partin and Lisa Godi, and Jessica and Marcelo Ricks. Information and cost of sponsor tables, table seats, and bleacher seats can be obtained by contacting Hannah Harris at 573-729-6626 extension 3410 or Jaimie Jones at 573-247-0420. Information is also available by contacting Hannah at hharris@smdh.net or Jaimie at foreverdance@live.com.

Congratulations to Salem R80 Middle School band students that placed in the SCA Honor Band! There was a great turnout of auditioning students this year, and we are so proud of everyone that auditioned on Tuesday! Wesley Bieker- 10th Chair Flute, Macie Graham- 16th Chair Clarinet, Gabriel Miller- 10th Chair Clarinet, and Bellah Wilber- 3rd Chair Tuba. These students will be performing at Ava’s Performing Arts Center on Saturday February 7th!