Local News

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released some reports from the late December. On December 20th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop in the 1000 block of North Highway 19. During the course of the traffic stop, a 59-year-old Steelville man was arrested for driving while having his license suspended, a 1st offense. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. On Christmas Eve, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on Dent County Road 2030. During the course of the traffic stop, a 53-year-old Rolla man was arrested for operating a vehicle on a highway without a valid driver’s license, a 3rd or subsequent offense. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. Later that same day, a deputy conducted a traffic stop at Pershing and Center streets. During the course of the traffic stop, a 46-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. On December 26th, the Reynolds County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance at a residence in the 200 block of Reynolds County Road 931 for a report of a domestic disturbance occurring. A deputy traveled to the residence and during the course of the incident, a 72-year-old Bunker man was arrested for an active warrant through Dent County. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was incarcerated. On December 27th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on East Center Street. During the course of the traffic stop, a 51-year-old Salem woman was arrested for driving while having her license revoked or suspended, a 1st offense. The woman was transported to the Dent County Jail where she was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. If anyone has any information regarding an ongoing investigation, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

Need trees and shrubs for your landscape? Go native with the Missouri Department of Conservation. Native trees and shrubs can help improve wildlife habitat and soil and water conservation while also improving the appearance and value of private property. The George O. White State Forest Nursery near Licking offers a variety of low-cost native tree and shrub seedlings for reforestation, windbreaks, erosion control, wildlife food and cover, and other purposes. The nursery provides mainly one-year-old, bare-root seedlings with sizes varying by species. Seedlings varieties include: pine, bald cypress, cottonwood, black walnut, hickory, oak, pecan, persimmon, river birch, maple, willow, sycamore, blackberry, beautyberry, buttonbush, deciduous holly, hazelnut, redbud, ninebark, spicebush, elderberry, sumac, wild plum, witch hazel, and others. Seedlings are available in bundles of 10 or increments of 25 per species. The prices range from 22 – 90 cents per seedling. Sales tax of 6.1% will be added to orders unless tax exempt. There is an $8 handling charge for each order. Receive a 15% discount up to $20 off seedling orders with a Heritage Card, Permit Card, or Conservation ID Number. The nursery grows millions of seedlings each year, but some species are very popular and sell out quickly. Occasionally the seedlings succumb to uncooperative weather or hungry wildlife, despite the nursery staff’s best efforts. Fiaoni said that even if a species is listed as sold out, customers can still place an order for them. Sometimes orders get cancelled, freeing up inventory. Customers won’t be charged for seedlings unless they are available to ship. Learn more and place orders with the Missouri Department of Conservation’s “2020-2021 Seedling Order Form.” You can pick one up at Department of Conservation regional offices and nature centers. You can also access the form online at mdc.mo.gov/seedlings, or by contacting the State Forest Nursery at 573-674-3229 or by e-mailing them at StateForestNursery@mdc.mo.gov. You can place your orders now through April 15, 2021. Orders will be shipped or can be picked up at the nursery near Licking from February through May.

Road maintenance doesn’t take a break for the winter. When snow and ice are cleared from the roads and forecast, drivers should expect to see maintenance crews at work on Missouri’s highways, often in slow moving operations. Fluctuating temperatures and precipitation mean potholes and other types of pavement damage are common during Missouri winters. As the weather allows, the Missouri Department of Transportation will have crews making repairs to roads and bridges throughout the winter season. In 2020, MoDOT’s truck/trailer-mounted attenuators were struck a record-setting 48 times, compared to 36 in 2019. These protective vehicles serve as a warning to traffic approaching a temporary mobile work zone and are the only thing separating workers making road repairs and the traveling public. Since 2018, nearly two-thirds of all trailer mounted attenuators struck during pothole patching operations occurred during the winter months from November through March. Many of these crashes were the result of drivers not paying attention and/or speeding. When motorists approach MoDOT or any other responders or emergency vehicles on the side of the highway with flashing lights, they should move over. Missouri’s Move Over law requires drivers to either change lanes or slow down when approaching MoDOT, law enforcement or other emergency vehicles with flashing lights. Drivers can report the location of potholes and other road repair needs by calling 888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or by visiting modot.org/report-road-concern.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the courthouse. At the meeting, Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams presented the sales tax monies received by the county this month. She reported the General Revenue Fund and LEST Fund each received $56,176.51 and that is $27,918.12 less than January of 2020 which came in at $84,094.63. That is a 33% reduction. The Dent County Jail Operating and Trust funds each received $48,531.41 and that is $30,228.61 less than last January when the county received $78,760.02. The Road and Bridge Fund received $24,265.26 and that is $15,108.48 less than January of 2020 when the county received $39,373.74. The Jail as well as the Road and Bridge funds are each down about 38% from last year. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray indicated grading is being done where possible while brush is being cut on county road 5630. He also said maintenance is being done on county dump truck #125. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson said brush was being cut on Dent County Road 4380 while maintenance was being performed on county roads 2250 and 3180 on the sides of the road that are washing out. He also said two men would be stockpiling white rock at the county road and bridge department shed. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles reported he would be attending a Meramec Regional Planning Commission External Relations meeting Wednesday afternoon and an MRPC Board meeting Thursday. He also said there would be no commissioner meeting Monday, January 18th due to it being MLK Day and the courthouse would be closed. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said she balanced with treasurer on all accounts for December and for the year 2020. She said she has the county financial statement ready for the commissioners to review before it is published later this month in the Salem News. Curley also stated January 26th at 5:00 will be the last day for all election districts to submit their notice that they are or are not having an election on April 6th for the Municipal Election. She also said March 10th would be the last day to register to vote for the Municipal Election. A petition for a Quit Claim Deed for old railway right-of-way in Crawford County was presented to the commission by the Dent County Prosecutor for them to sign to relinquish the property to the petitioners, Jeffrey Perkins and Jacklyn Blanford. The commissioners agreed to sign the petition. The commissioners continued to work on the budget and this Friday after the noon hour, a tentative budget will be available to the public. You can pickup the tentative budget from the clerk’s office at the courthouse. The next commissioner meeting will be held on Monday, January 25th at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meting is open to the public.

If you are a business owner, business manager or you would like to start a business, attend the Business @ Breakfast this Thursday starting at 7:00 in the morning. You may attend in person or via zoom and in-person seats are almost gone!. You will hear from Candace Connell, business loan specialist with the Meramec Regional Planning Commission, who will explain the CARES RLF, also known as a Revolving Loan Fund, which is a loan opportunity in our region that is utilizing special federal funding to support area businesses. This money is intended to spur new business growth through startups, expansions and new business lines. This loan program IS NOT intended for reimbursement or assistance with COVID-19 related expenses. The Business @ Breakfast will be hosted personally by Sally Burbridge, the Salem and Dent County Economic Development Director, and virtually by Sarah Hultine Massengale, from the MU Extension. This get together will be held at the Salem Community Center, Rotary Meeting Room, or you attend via Zoom. Reserve your space today by contacting Sarah Massengale at hultines@missouri.edu. Again, in-person seating is almost full so please inquire if still available. You can also attend by virtual link. Doughnuts and coffee will be served for those attending in person.

Registration is open for online Master Gardener training through the MU Extension. The next 14-week session begins January 17th 2021. While this is not meant to replace in-person training, which still is conducted in many Missouri counties, online classes represent another way to go through the core training required of all MU Extension Master Gardeners and students can work at their own pace within the confines of a course schedule. Classes are delivered as a series of scripted and narrated video presentations. Topics include basic botany, soils and plant nutrition, vegetable gardening, fruit production, landscape design, woody ornamental plants, herbaceous ornamental plants, turf management, insect and disease management, and pesticide safety. Those who successfully complete the core training and perform at least 30 hours of volunteer service qualify for MU Extension Master Gardener certification. Local Master Gardener coordinators help online trainees find volunteer opportunities to meet the service requirements. For details and registration, visit mg.missouri.edu.

This past Saturday afternoon at 5:00, a Rolla man drowned at the Little Prairie Lake in Phelps County. According to the Missouri State Water Patrol report, 25-year old Sumit Garg of Rolla entered the waterway by an unknown means when he became submerged and did not resurface. Garg was later located about fifteen feet from bank. He was pronounced dead at 9:00 Saturday evening by the Phelps County Coroner Ernie Coverdell. His body was taken to the Phelps County Morgue. He was not wearing a personal floatation device. This is the first drowning of 2021 in Troop I.

Here’s a cold weather safety tip. Many cold weather anglers use lakes or ponds for winter recreational activities. If you have plans to be near or on one of the state’s many bodies of water, please be careful and stay alert! When someone is suddenly immersed in cold water, they are at risk for cold shock and hypothermia. Cold shock occurs when the body is suddenly immersed in cold water. Once the trunk of the body goes under, the blood vessels constrict to conserve core body heat. This will quickly limit the use of a person’s arms and legs. Likewise, these conditions may cause a sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure—in some cases resulting in cardiac arrest. Cold shock can cause involuntary gasping reflex. When the body hits the water, cold shock can cause the person to gasp for air, but inhale water and result in drowning. The body loses heat 25 times faster in water than in the air. Lifejacket use becomes even more important in cold water because hypothermia can quickly rob the body of the ability to perform the most basic tasks and drowning is always a concern. If you take an unexpected plunge into cold water, it is vital to get out of the water and into dry clothes as soon as possible. If dry clothes are not an option leave the wet ones on. Even wet clothes will offer some insulation and trap body heat. A warm drink can be given to someone suffering from hypothermia if they are conscious. Caffeine and alcohol should be avoided. Drinks with sugars for quick energy are preferable. Hypothermia can be deadly even if you are wearing a PFD, so it is important to never go boating alone in the winter. If no one knows you are in trouble, no one can help.

The City of Salem Utility Committee will hold a workshop Monday evening, January 11th at 7:00 at the Salem Community Center @ The Armory 1200 West Rolla Road. The committee will review the treatment plant permit and VCA requirements and review funding options for the treatment plant phase 2 improvements before receiving updates on the AMI project and utility billing before adjourning. The meeting of the utility committee is open to the public.

Ron Copeland officially began his service as state representative for the 143rd District after being sworn in during a ceremony Wednesday, January 6th in the Missouri State Capitol. Copeland takes his place in the Missouri House of Representatives alongside 113 of his Republican colleagues, as well as 48 Democratic members. Copeland replaces State Representative Jeff Pogue, who left office because of term limits. Copeland will now serve a district made up of Dent, Shannon, Oregon, and parts of Reynolds counties. He has lived and served in the district since 1992. Prior to his legislative service, Copeland served with the Missouri State Highway Patrol and recently retired as a sergeant. He also served as a corrections officer for the Missouri Department of Corrections and as a Military Police Officer with the Missouri National Guard. Copeland said he plans to communicate regularly with the district so that his constituents are well-informed on the issues under consideration in the State Capitol building. He encourages anyone interested in receiving updates to contact his office at 573-751-2264 or by email at Ron.Copeland@house.mo.gov.

To help alleviate hunger and financial hardships this holiday season, The Doe Run Company provided food items, essential supplies and donations to charitable organizations and families throughout Southeast Missouri. Doe Run employees supported the Adopt a Family program, hosted by the Iron County C-4 School District’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). This is the program’s 10th year of supplying 30 local families with Christmas presents and food items for Christmas dinner. Employees donated presents and other essential items, such as cookware, toiletries and tools. Doe Run also donated food and non-perishable items for local food banks to help the elderly and individuals with physical disabilities, including A+ CDS in Salem (now known as Advantage Home Care), Disabled Citizens Alliance for Independence in Viburnum and the God’s Ministry Mission in Bunker. In addition, Doe Run employees collected 90 coats for the mission in Bunker and provided holiday gifts for local families through the Bunker R-3 School District.

The Salem Police Department has released their report for the month of November. They served 10 summons to appear in court, wrote 63 warning tickets, and 21 traffic tickets, plus they served seven fugitive warrants. The Salem Police investigated 10 traffic accidents, wrote seven property damage reports, 13 stealing reports, and conducted one death investigation. The department investigated two driving while having a license revoked or suspended charges, one driving while being intoxicated report, two possession of drug paraphernalia charges as well as a domestic assault report, one unlawful use of a firearm report and responded to two shots fired inside the city limits The department was also dispatched for 41 animal calls, 21 ambulance assist calls, and performed 91 traffic stops for the month. The Department conducted 26 follow-up investigations, investigated two leaving the scene of an accident reports and responded to three suspicious circumstances. The Salem Police Department received 756 calls for service during the month of November and had 28 walk-ins to the station. The department drove 9,743 miles during the month. There were ten males and two females arrested in November. The Police Department also served four hours during the month as court bailiff.

The Dent County Fire Protection Board of Directors met Tuesday evening at the fire station. After approval of the consent agenda, minutes from the December meeting were reviewed and approved as presented. The Board then heard the financial report where the 2021 budget was approved. There was no calendar review as COVID and the construction in the district cancelled most events. The monthly reimbursement report was not available at the time of the meeting and it is expected it to be sent to the board members. In Old Business, the contract with Cahill Construction has been completed and all payments have been made. In New Business, the board discussed and approved an increase in the pay for Chief Brad Nash. They also approved to increase wages to keep up with the current wage laws and cost of living increase. The next meeting of the Dent County Fire Protection Board will be Tuesday, February 2nd at # 2 South Main at the fire station. The meeting was then adjourned.

Recently, a different written media published an article discussing the notice requirements for the upcoming municipal election, scheduled to be held on April 6, 2021. After consultation with State of Missouri election authorities, the City of Salem is compliant with the notice requirements for the upcoming April 6th municipal election. The election will be held as previously announced in Resolution No 21-2020 that was passed during the public session of the Aldermen Meeting held November 16th, 2020 and publicly posted.

The Salem Police department has released the report of an accident that happened on the afternoon of Wednesday December 30th just after 1:00. According to the report from the department, a 2002 Chevy Cavalier being driven by Edward Goforth of Salem was stopped at a stop sign facing west on West Roosevelt and started in traffic to cross Route HH and struck a 2010 Volkswagen being driven by Anthony Morrison of Salem. Goforth stated he didn’t see the Volkswagen. The Volkswagen had extensive damage while moderate damage was sustained on the Chevy. Goforth suffered minor injuries and was examined on the scene by personnel from the SMDH EMS.

“Starting a Business: The First Steps” is a FREE workshop being offered by the Missouri Small Business Development Centers. This morning from 10:30 until 11:45, participants will learn about discovering their target markets and gaining a better appreciation of why businesses need to understand their customers. The workshop will show participants the steps in registering their business with the federal, state the basics of understanding the importance of cash flow projections and various funding alternatives. The workshop can be viewed by Zoom. To register, go to https://bit.ly/0108FS. Registered attendees will be sent a Zoom link to participate virtually

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation shows that deer hunters in Missouri harvested 14,555 deer during the alternative-methods portion of the firearms deer season from December 26th through January 5th, 2021. Top harvest counties were Franklin with 318 deer harvested, Callaway with 317, and Osage with 298. In the local area, Texas County reported 236 deer harvested, Crawford had 213 deer taken, Dent County reported 197 harvested, Shannon County had 178 deer taken, Reynolds County reported 155 deer harvested and Phelps County had 116 deer taken. The harvest total for last year’s alternative-methods portion was 12,024.

A Salem teenager was injured in a one vehicle accident that happened Tuesday afternoon around 3:30 in Phelps County on Route BB about a half mile south of Highway 8. The report from the highway patrol states that a 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix being driven by 18-year old Dominic Pickett, was traveling south when he traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a ditch and overturned. Pickett was transported by a private conveyance to Phelps Health for the treatment of minor injuries. Pickett was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Pontiac was totaled and removed from the scene by Spurgeons Towing.

An accident happened Tuesday afternoon at just after 2:15 in Crawford County on Highway 19 about six miles south of Steelville. According to the report from the highway patrol, 31-year old William Rutz of Steelville was driving a 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse northbound when he failed to negotiate a curve and ran off the right side of the road, striking a sign and then a tree. Rutz suffered moderate injuries and was transported by air to the Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. It was not determined if Rutz was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Mitsubishi was totaled and removed from the scene by Miles Towing.

The Dent County Extension Council is holding elections this week through Friday. In the Central District, there are five candidates and they are Randy Burrus, Dalton Connell, Chris Holliday, Drusilla Howard and Dalton Sanders. Voters in this district can vote for a maximum of five candidates. In the Northern District, there are two candidates and they are Cami Barnitz-Chapman and Michael Dunn. In this district, voters can vote for a maximum of two candidates. In the Southern District, there are three candidates. They are Janelle Blair, Karin Casper and Tracy Strange. Voters in this district can vote for a maximum of two candidates. Ballots are available at the Dent County Extension office at 112 East 5th Street where you can vote in person, or by going online at extension.missouri.edu/counties/dent and click on the county council button. Any Dent County residents, age 18 and older, may vote. If you have any question, please call the extension office at 729-3196.

If you are a business owner, business manager or are wanting to start a business, you should attend the Business @ Breakfast on January 14th starting at 7:00 in the morning. You may attend in person or via zoom. In-person seats are limited to 10. You will hear from Candace Connell, business loan specialist with the Meramec Regional Planning Commission, who will explain the CARES RLF, also known as a Revolving Loan Fund, which is a loan opportunity in our region that is utilizing special federal funding to support area businesses. This money is intended to spur new business growth through startups, expansions and new business lines. This loan program IS NOT intended for reimbursement or assistance with COVID-19 related expenses. The Business @ Breakfast will be hosted personally by Sally Burbridge, the Salem and Dent County Economic Development Director, and virtually by Sarah Hultine Massengale, from the MU Extension. This get together will be held at the Salem Community Center, Rotary Meeting Room, or you attend via Zoom. Reserve your space today by contacting Sarah Massengale at hultines@missouri.edu and specify: In-person seat (limit 10 seats) or virtual link. Doughnuts and coffee will be served for those attending in person.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released some reports from early to mid December. On December 8th, a deputy traveled to a residence in the 3000 block of South Highway 19 to serve an arrest warrant. During the course of the incident, a 39-year-old Salem man was arrested for having an active warrant through Dent County. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was incarcerated. On December 9th, a deputy traveled to a residence in the 2500 block of Dent County Road 3300 for the report of a burglary. Upon arrival, the deputy discovered that a 28-year-old man was the reported victim. This investigation is ongoing. On December 11th, the Dent County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a suspicious vehicle at the intersection of Route K and Dent County Road 6200. Several deputies traveled to the area and during the course of the investigation, a 48-year-old Salem man was arrested for stealing a motor vehicle, tampering with motor vehicle in the 1st degree and for stealing. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was incarcerated. On December 18th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop in the 700 block of North Pershing. During the course of the traffic stop, a 35-year-old Salem man was arrested for driving while having his license revoked. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. That same day, a deputy traveled to a residence in the 3000 block of Dent County Road 3260 to serve an arrest warrant. During the course of the incident, a 34-year-old Salem man was arrested for having an active warrant through Dent County. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was incarcerated. If anyone has any information regarding an ongoing investigation, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley released reports from court held in Crawford County Tuesday in front of Judge Megan Seay. In the first case, Samuel Rogers of Licking pled guilty to burglary in the 1st degree, felony stealing and the possession of a firearm by a felon. Judge Seay sentenced Rogers to nine years in the Department of Corrections as requested by the prosecutor. In the second case of the day, Craig Davis of St. Louis pled guilty to the possession of a controlled substance and endangering the welfare of a child. Judge Seay sentenced Davis to 10 years in the Department of Corrections as requested by the prosecutor.

Salem native Stuart Pryor recently was named as President and CEO of Progressive Ozark Bank succeeding Kara Huitt who retired from the post in late December 2020 after 17 years with the company. Pryor has served more than 19 years with the Progressive Ozark Bank Salem Branch. His experience ranges from his first part-time post during college to most recently serving the past 11 years as Chief Financial Officer.

The Salem Board of Aldermen held a regular meeting Monday evening at the City Hall Council Chambers. After the consent agenda was approved, City Administrator Ray Walden reported that a workshop will be held to review funding for the Wasterwater Treatment Plant on Monday, January 11th at 7:00 at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory. Training for city employees that will edit the new website is being conducted with the new site being active soon. The materials for the renovation work at the City Administration Offices would be in this week and look for the work to be completed soon with an open house to follow. The City offices will be closed on Monday, January 18th for MLK Day with the next Alderman meeting being held on Tuesday, January 19th. Public Works Director Mark Nash stated the new meters and modules have been ordered with a change file from Next Grid expected soon. Alderman Kevin James suggested an explanation being posted explaining the two billings that went out in December. Walden mentioned that after the October billing cycle goes out, the will have a better idea of a timeline to send out a press release. Citizens are encouraged to contact the city administration offices for questions regarding their billing. The board then went into closed session to discuss litigation.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released some reports from late November into early December. On Monday, November 23rd, a deputy began an investigation regarding a violation of an order of protection. The deputy discovered that a 44-year-old Viburnum woman was the reported victim. She gave a brief statement of what had occurred and this investigation is ongoing. On Friday, November 27th, a Missouri Department of Conservation Agent contacted the Dent County Sheriff’s Office to report an abandon vehicle on Dent County Road 5220. Deputies traveled to the location and during the course of the incident, it was discovered that the vehicle was stolen from Phelps County the day prior. The vehicle was towed and the Phelps County Sheriff’s Office was notified. On Saturday, November 28th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Route B and Highway 72. During the course of the traffic stop, a 42-year-old Salem man was arrested for operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license. He was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. Later that same day, a deputy conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Highway 119 and Route E. During the course of the traffic stop, a 44-year-old Salem man was arrested for the possession of a controlled substance. He was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. On Wednesday, December 2nd, a deputy conducted a traffic stop in the Walmart parking lot. During the course of the traffic stop, a 21-year-old Salem woman and a 24-year-old Salem man were arrested for possession of a controlled substance. The man and woman were both transported to the Dent County Jail where they were incarcerated. On Friday, December 4th, a deputy traveled to a residence in the 6500 block of Highway 68 to serve an arrest warrant. During the course of the incident, a 40-year-old Salem man was arrested for having an active warrant through Dent County. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was incarcerated. If anyone has any information regarding an ongoing investigation, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

University of Missouri Extension will hold a Soils and Crops Conference on-line using Zoom to reach farmers with updates on crops and forages Tuesday evening, January 12th from 7:00 until 9:00. There will be no cost to participate in the conference. Topics featured in the conference include Sudden Death Syndrome in Soybean presented by Kaitlyn Bissonette, Plant Pathologist, Weed Control Update for Row Crops and Forages by Kevin Bradley, Extension Weed Scientist and Nitrogen Management for Cool Season Grasses by Gatlin Bunton, Field Specialist in Agronomy. All speakers are MU Extension specialists. The conferences are structured to provide both the row crop and forage producer with education designed to address topics relevant to their farm. To register for this event call the Franklin County University Extension Center at (636) 583-5141. Registered participants will receive a Zoom link to participate.

The Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District (ORSWMD) wants the public to know that you can take a stand for your land and combat illegal dumping. Late fall and late winter are the best times for identifying illegal dumps and they encourage anyone to report illegal dumping activities. The Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District (ORSWMD) provides surveillance camera services as a courtesy to cities and communities. To make a request, contact Jill Hollowell at the Meramac Regional Planning Commission by calling (573) 265-2993. This project is funded by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is extending the deadline to January 15th for landowner enrollment into the Missouri Outdoor Recreational Access Program. MRAP provides incentive payments of $15 to $25 per acre and habitat improvement financial assistance to participating landowners in return for allowing public access to their land for recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Participating landowners can choose the recreational activities allowed on their property by selecting one of the following MRAP access types: all access hunting and fishing, small game and turkey hunting, youth only hunting and fishing, archery hunting, fishing only, or wildlife viewing. Offered lands must meet minimum eligibility requirements such as being 40 contiguous acres in size or 5 contiguous acres for wildlife viewing access types or 1 pond acre for fishing-only access types. MRAP properties must also consist of at least 20% quality wildlife habitat which includes native grass fields, crop field buffers, or managed woodlands to be eligible for the program. For information on how to apply to the MRAP program, visit short.mdc.mo.gov/Zcs.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning for their regular meeting at the courthouse. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles presented former District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell with very nice plaque in honor of his 12 years of service to the county. Salem and Dent County Economic Development Director Sally Burbridge was in attendance to present her report for the month of December. She said page editor training would be held this Friday and next Thursday that will include a rep from each department of the city and county for the new website. She also said she will asking the tourism tax committee for funds to help with new “Welcome to Salem” signs with the new logo imagery. She also said a new sign would be put up at the City Administration Building with the new logo imagery as well. Burbridge said the city did not get the FHLB grant for the “Welcome Home Program” as they fell short by 1.7 points. Riverways Federal Credit Union visited with the FHLB reviewer to see where improvement can be made. Burbridge said it will take consensus from the city on resubmitting the application with additional viewer input. Burbridge talked about the “Love Thy Neighbor” program as they will be holding an informational meeting Thursday night at the First Baptist Church on McArthur at 6:30. This is a church-based volunteer program that provides assistance to residents for maintenance and repair. Everyone is welcome to attend. Burbridge will also be holding a Business @ Breakfast on Thursday, January 14th from 7:00 until 7:45 in the morning to discuss the MRPC’s CARES Revolving Loan Fund. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray stated a downed tree was removed from Dent County Road 5530, while other roads were being checked for downed limbs and trees. Mobray also reported that workers would be cleaning out road pipes that are stopped up. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson said a downed tree was removed from a road this past weekend and other roads were being checked for downed trees and limbs. Larson said pipes would be cleaned out while signs at some low water crossings need to be replaced. Larson went on to say that a low water crossing near Boss would be worked on and that grading would probably be done Tuesday. Commissioner Skiles revealed he tested positive for COVID-19 over the Christmas break which was why he missed last Monday’s meeting. He said the county will be working on the budget for 2021 and no bills can be paid until it is approved. The tentative budget will be ready the afternoon on January 15th for the public and a budget hearing has been set for January 25th at 10:00 in the commissioner’s office. Skiles also said he received a letter from the Missouri Department of Conservation that the PILT payment for 2020 was not made due to some language in House Bill 2019. Payment will be made once the court makes a declaratory judgment on the bill to clarify the language. Last year, the PILT money received by the county from the Conservation Department was $3,865. At the last meeting, Tod Kinerk and Tabitha Utley from the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce were in asking for an increase in funds in the 2021 county to go from $750 to $5,000 due to increased expenses. No decision was made. Sheriff Bob Wells also came in to visit with the commission about the payment of jail doctor bills for two months that would need to come out of the 2020 budget and the commission approved those bills. The next meeting will be held Monday, January 11th at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Dent County Fire Protection District board of directors will be meeting this evening at 6:00 at the fire station located at #2 South Main. After the roll call and approval of the consent agenda the board will review minutes of the December meeting and then hear the financial report and approve bills. The board will then go over the 2021 budget before the calendar review and hearing the monthly reimbursement report. Old and any new business will be heard before various reports are given. The date will then be set for the February meeting before adjourning. The meeting of the Dent County Fire Protection District board of directors is open to the public.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has provided these preliminary statistics related to the New Year’s holiday weekend. Four people died in traffic crashes during the 78-hour counting period from 6:00 PM New Years Eve until 11:59 Sunday, January 3rd. Troopers investigated 458 traffic crashes, 97 traffic crash injuries, 4 fatalities and 135 DWI arrests. During the 2020 30-hour New Year’s counting period, there were 323 traffic crashes with one person killed, 140 injuries and 58 DWI arrests. There were no boating crashes or drownings over the 2021 New Year’s holiday counting period.

The Richmond Heights Police Department has issued an Endangered SILVER Advisory for a missing adult incident that occurred at 7720 Arthur Avenue at 5:30 Sunday morning. The missing adult is a 64-year old while male named Kevin Albrect who stands about 5′ 7″ tall, weighs about 125 lbs, has blonde or grey hair and has blue eyes. The clothing he was wearing is unknown. He is of slim build and is missing an upper front tooth and a lower front tooth. He has Alzheimer’s and Dementia. It is believed he left the St. Louis area in a white 2016 Nissan Rogue bearing MO temporary plate, 04KJNT. The vehicle was last seen 7720 Arthur Avenue in Richmond Heights. Albrecht’s wife returned to the residence and Albrecht was no longer at that location. Albrecht’s phone last pinged in the area of Rolla Missouri, but the phone has since been turned off. Anyone seeing the missing person, suspect, associate, or vehicle, or anyone having any information related to the endangered missing person should immediately dial 911 to contact the nearest law enforcement agency or call the Richmond Heights Police Department at 314-645-3000.

An accident happened Saturday morning at 8:38 on Interstate 44 at 213 mile marker than took the life of a man from Cuba, Missouri. According to the highway patrol report, 50-year old Danny Evans from Cuba was driving a 1998 Chevy Blazer eastbound when he lost control on an ice covered bridge. The Blazer traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned, ejecting Evans. Danny Evans was taken to the Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan where he was pronounced dead at 10:20 Saturday morning by Dr. Melissa Bradley. A passenger in the Blazer, 51-year old Tracey Evans of Cuba, was transported by the North Crawford County Ambulance to the Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan for the treatment of moderate injuries. The report indicates Danny Evans was not wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident while Tracey Evans was. The Blazer was totaled and removed from the scene by Chris and Sons Towing in Cuba.

An accident happened in St. Louis County Sunday around noon on Interstate 270 heading southbound between Highway 100 and Big Bend Boulevard that left a Rolla man with serious injuries. According to the highway patrol report, 52-year old Allen Blackmon of Rolla was driving his 2000 Buick Lesabre and was traveling in the outside lane when he traveled off the right side of the roadway. The LeSabre then struck two delineator posts and overturned. Blackmon suffered serious injuries and he was taken to the Mercy Hospital by the Des Peres EMS. The LeSabre was totaled and removed from the scene by McNamara Towing. Blackmon was wearing his seat restraint at the time of the accident.

An accident happened in Dent County at 11:05 Friday morning on Dent County Road 6150 about a quarter of a mile south of Highway 32. According to the highway patrol report, a 1987 Ford Bronco driven northbound by 20-year old Katlyn Tabor of Salem, traveled off the right side of the roadway. The Ford Bronco struck an embankment and overturned. Suffering moderate injuries was a passenger in the Bronco, 21-year old James Wallace of Salem, and he was taken by the Salem EMS to the Salem Memorial District Hospital for treatment. Suffering minor injuries were the driver, Katlyn Tabor and another passenger in the Bronco, 20-year old Jeremy Pilkington of Salem. They were both taken by the Salem EMS to the Salem Memorial District Hospital for treatment. The highway patrol report says that none of these individuals were wearing a seat restraint when the accident happened. The Bronco was totaled and removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing of Salem.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will meet this evening at 7:00 at the City Hall Council Chambers. At the meeting, the board will discuss and approve the consent agenda before City Administrator ray Walden will discuss and update the board on ongoing city projects. The board will then go into closed session to discuss litigation before the meeting is adjourned. The meeting of the Salem Board of Aldermen is open to the public.

The Missouri Department of Transportation reminds motorists that Route K in Reynolds County will be reduced to one lane with a 10-foot width restriction as Missouri Department of Transportation crews replace a culvert under the roadway. This section of roadway is located between Reynolds County Road 421 and Reynolds County Road 302A. Weather permitting, the work will take place today through Thursday, January 7th from 8:00 in the morning until 3:00 in the afternoon each day. The work zone will be marked with signs. Motorists are urged to use extreme caution while traveling near the area. For additional information, contact MoDOT’s Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (1-888-275-6636) or visit www.modot.org/southeast.

Your World Today and KSMO Radio want to wish everyone a Happy New Year and the very best for 2021. Because of New Year’s Day this Friday, Your World Today will not be published.

An accident happened in Pettis County at 8:48 Wednesday morning on Route H just south of Cherry Tree Lane that took the life of a St. James man. According to the highway patrol report, 23-year old Collin Oetting of St. James was driving a 2005 Chevy Silverado northbound when he failed to negotiate a curve and traveled off the right side of the roadway. The vehicle struck an embankment and came to rest in a creek on its top. Oetting was pronounced dead at the scene by Pettis County Deputy Coroner Brian Morley at 8:59. Oetting’s body was transported by the deputy coroner to the McLaughlin Funeral Home. Oetting was not wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Chevy Silverado was totaled and removed from the scene by Don’s Towing of Sedalia. The highway patrol was assisted by the Pettis County Sheriff’s Department.

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, encourages everyone to make good decisions regarding their New Year’s celebration. No one wants to start 2021 with a traffic crash or DWI arrest. The 2021 New Year’s 78-hour holiday counting period is from 6:00 this evening and ends at 11:59 Sunday night, January 3rd, 2021. During last year’s 30-hour New Year’s holiday counting period, one person died and 140 people were injured in 323 traffic crashes. Thus, a person was killed or injured every 12.8 minutes during that time frame. If your plans to welcome the new year include alcohol, remember that 2021 will be more difficult if you are arrested for driving while intoxicated or involved in a drinking-related traffic crash. If you’re driving, don’t include alcohol or illegal substances in your plan. If you plan to drive this New Year’s, remember to buckle up and make sure all your passengers do the same. Pay attention, obey all traffic laws, and when in doubt, yield the right-of-way. Be sure to use your turn signal to communicate your intentions. Before you travel, check road conditions by calling 1-888-275-6636. Allow extra time during inclement weather or consider staying home. Remember: Missouri law states if you’re using your windshield wipers, your headlights must be turned on.

The Salem R-80 Art Department 2021 Art Calendars are in and are ready for purchase. For the past eighteen years, Salem High School art students have shared the beauty of our local landmarks and life in the Ozarks through selected drawings in our annual calendar. By doing this, we wish to showcase the work of these students, and encourage artists of all ages to pursue their love of drawing the landscapes and people that make up our heritage. This calendar cover, drawn by Lara Stevens, features Michael Helm, a well-known and much-loved local artist, volunteer, and teacher. Helm was not only a local artist around the area, but was also a well-known volunteer, most notably as Santa for the annual Trees and Trains exhibit in Salem. Helm passed away January 4, 2020 in Salem at the age of 61, leaving a legacy for the Ozarks to be passed on for generations. Calendars are available for sale at The Salem News, The Salem Public Library and the Salem High School via any of the individual art students for $10 each. This year’s artists include: Lara Stevens, Allison Parker-Lewis, Nathan Pyle, Alivia Faith LaJoie, Rachel Sheffield, Faith Pace, Jordan Schneider, Selena Hall, Wyatt Thomas, Kyra Oby, Macey Jarrett, Dylan Seabaugh, Ethan Wilson-Webber, and Mickayla Schlicker. The art instructor for the 2021 Calendar project was Tana Kettner.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol wants to remind motorists that when adverse weather conditions are in the forecast, you should check road conditions before driving to help determine if the trip can be completed safely. Consulting the Missouri Road Condition Report (1-888-275-6636) or MoDOT’s Road Condition Map at traveler.modot.org/map/ will provide the most current road condition information available. If conditions dictate, avoid driving on Missouri’s roadways. If you must travel, make sure your vehicle is completely clean from snow and ice, use your headlights to increase visibility, and reduce your speed when the roadway appears wet or snow is present. Remember: Missouri law states if you’re using your windshield wipers, your headlights must be turned on. During inclement weather, please adjust your speed to the conditions. Do not use cruise control and increase your following distance. It is next to impossible to stop quickly on snow-covered or slick roads. Allow extra driving time for you to reach your destination at a slow, safe speed. If you choose to travel in inclement weather, keep your fuel tank at least half full. Having an ice scraper, battery booster cables, blankets, extra coats, gloves, water, non-perishable food, first aid kit, flashlight, small shovel, and a bag of sand or cat litter in your trunk can help in an emergency. It only takes one traffic crash to close a roadway for several hours. Being prepared is critical. Before you travel, make sure your cell phone is fully charged and keep it with you. Do not use your cell phone when you are driving; park your vehicle well off the roadway or in a parking lot before placing a call. The Missouri State Highway Patrol emergency number is 1-800-525-5555 (or *55 on a cellular phone). If you are involved in a crash or slide off the roadway, stay inside your vehicle with your seat belt on. The safest course of action is to contact law enforcement by cell phone and remain inside your vehicle. When remaining in your vehicle, place it in park and turn off the engine. Understand the signs of hypothermia and frostbite and how to prevent them. Create a plan to handle the chance of getting stranded.

Colonel Eric T. Olson, the superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, reported on the preliminary statistics related to the Christmas holiday weekend. In the 78-hour counting period from Christmas Eve at 6:00 in the evening until 11:59 Sunday night, December 27th, five people died in traffic crashes. Troopers investigated 175 traffic crashes with 55 injuries and five deaths. There were a total of 62 driving while impaired arrests made. Last year during the 30-hour Christmas counting period, there were 278 traffic crashes statewide. In those crashes, three people were killed and another 111 were injured. During the 2019 Christmas holiday, troopers arrested 20 people for driving while impaired. There were no boating crashes or drownings over the 2020 Christmas holiday counting period. Two traffic fatalities occurred in the Troop A Lee’s Summit area; while there was one traffic fatality that occurred in the Troop C in the Weldon Spring area; Troop F in the Jefferson City area, and Troop G in the Willow Springs area.

The Salem Police Department has released some reports. On Sunday afternoon, December 13th, at approximately 2:45 an officer conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Pershing and Center streets for expired registration. During the traffic stop it was found the driver had an active warrant for his arrest. As a result, a 41-year-old Salem male was arrested and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. That night at approximately 10:15 an officer was dispatched to Walmart for a report of trespassing. It was reported that a male subject had been in the store for hours and following and harassing customers. After being asked to leave the store the male subject became very agitated and belligerent and refused to leave the store. As a result, a 36-year-old Salem male was arrested for trespassing. The male subject resisted arrest and continued to be belligerent. The male subject was transported to the Dent County Jail and placed on a 24-hour hold pending the application of warrants. Finally on Monday night, December 14th, at approximately 9:05 an officer was dispatched to the 500 block of east Roosevelt for a report of a theft of a firearm. It was reported that between the hours of 3:00 in the afternoon and 9:00 that night a gun was taken from his vehicle that was parked at the premises. The firearm was described as a Savage .243 valued at $500. This incident is still under investigation. Contact the Salem Police at 573-729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.