Local News

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. At the meeting, Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams reported on the CART tax money received in the month of May. Williams said the county received $67,277.65 this May compared to $47,523.42 in May of 2020 which is an increase of $19,754.23. Year-to-date, the CART funds received by the county are up $16,235.24. In the road report, 1st District Commissioner Wes Mobray stated materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Roads 2400 and 4220, while only grading would be done on county roads 5170 and 5550. He said the installation of four culverts on Dent County Road 4160 had been completed. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson said grading would be done on county roads 2140, 2150 and 6160, while materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 2500. Larson went on to say materials would also be added to county road 2533. Larson said these last two roads are conservation area roads and should be done by this week. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said that he, treasurer Denita Williams, Sheriff Bob Wells and Sergeant Lenny Pabin attended an American Rescue Plan Act meeting at the MRPC last Wednesday to discuss funds that may become available in the county. There are still no guidelines yet or when the money will become available. The commission had to indicate what person would be able to obligate the county to the ARPA program and another who would be responsible for the funds. The commission approved allowing Skiles to be the contact person for the county and named Treasurer Denita Williams as the person responsible for the distribution of funds. Skiles said the MRPC would once again offer their services to help review applications to allow for ARPA fund distributions. Skiles said he would be attending a broadband Zoom meeting this morning at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory at 10:00 to get an update on what is going on, and then be in Jefferson City Wednesday for the insurance consortium meeting. Dent County Collector Shannon VanKirk came in to tell the commissioners that Forte, the company that allows people to pay their tax bills by credit card, has updated their site and has a new web address that will be on the county website shortly, and will be on the tax statements come November. The new address to pay tax bills through Forte is: https://billpay.forte.net/dentcountymotax/. At the last meeting, the commissioners held a Budget hearing to make adjustments to the county 2021 budget. Due to the Department of Revenue error, the county adjusted the decrease in sales tax revenues for the General Revenue Fund, both jail funds, the Road and Bridge Department Fund and the Law Enforcement Salem Tax Fund. They included the new American Rescue Plan Act funds the county expects to get and made a transfer of $150,000 from General Revenue to the LEST Fund to keep it financially sound. The county then went on to increase the culvert line from $20,000 to $30,000 in the Road and Bridge budget in the 2021 budget. With no opposition, the commissioners approved the budget amendments. The commissioners will not be meeting on May 31st due to it being Memorial Day and their next meeting will be on June 7th.

In closed session Thursday evening at the Salem R-80 Board of Education meeting, the board approved the employment of Cody Woody as a high school physical education instructor and middle school football coach, Jared Patterson as a high school social studies instructor and middle school football coach, Mark Howard as a middle school football coach and Chris Kamprath as an assistant track coach. The board also approved allowing Kyle Anderson to take a sabbatical year as high school assistant football coach for the 2021-2022 year, extending Will Hubbs contract by 10 days, and approved adding an extra duty drama stipend at Group #4 and to hire Shannon Phelps for that position. Superintendent Dr. Lynne Reed then discussed the individual building climate survey results with the board before they adjourned closed session and the regular meeting.

As part of an ongoing improvement project taking place on various roadways in Dent and Phelps Counties, work crews plan to start on two of the next phases of the project this week. Yesterday, a contractor working for the Missouri Department of Transportation will begin pavement improvement work on Dent County Route F. This work is expected to take up to two weeks to complete and will require daily intermittent lane closures with flaggers to guide motorists through the work zone. Crews will also begin improvement work on the barrier curb of the Phelps County Route K bridge over Sherrill Creek. This work is expected to take up to three weeks to complete and will require temporary signals at the bridge to guide motorists through the work zone. Once this work is complete, crews will begin resurfacing and widening the shoulders of Highway 68 in both counties and Dent County Route HH near Salem. Crews will also continue to work on box culvert extensions along Highway 68. This work is weather permitting and could be delayed. For more information and updates about this project or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) you can also follow the MoDOT Central Missouri District on Facebook and Twitter for project updates.

A fatal crash Saturday evening at 7:40 in Maries County on Highway 63 about five miles south of Vienna took the life of a Salem man. According to the highway patrol report, a 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt driven by 23-year-old Nathan Reid of Salem, was travelling northbound when he travelled off the right side of the roadway and then returned the road. The Cobalt began skidding, travelled off the right side of the road again where the Cobalt struck a rock embankment and partially ejected Reid. The Cobalt came to rest blocking the northbound lane. Reid was not wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. Reid was pronounced dead at the scene at 8:05 that evening by Dr. Garcia. Reid’s body was transported to the Birmingham Martin Funeral Home in Vienna by the Maries Conty Coroner. The Cobalt was totaled and removed from the scene by DLH Auto. The highway patrol was assisted by deputies from the Maries County Sheriff’s Department, the Maries/Osage Ambulance District, and the Vichy Fire Department.

A motorcycle accident happened Friday evening at around 8:30 in Dent County on Dent County Road 6670, about sixteen miles southwest of Salem. The report from the highway patrol states that a 2001 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic being operated by 35-year-old Damon Robertson of Salem, lost control of the motorcycle in a curve, traveled off the left side of the road and overturned. A passenger, 36-year-old Belinda Watson, also of Salem, suffered moderate injuries and was taken by ambulance to Salem Memorial District Hospital for treatment. Robertson received minor injuries but refused treatment. The report went on state that neither were wearing safety devices at the time of the accident. The Harley was totaled in the accident and removed from the scene by Whitaker Towing.

A special Board of Aldermen meeting called by Alderwoman Kim Steelman and Alderman Shawn Bolerjack will be held this evening at 5:45 at the Civic Theater in the old city hall auditorium at 202 North Washington to consider resolution #17-2021, a lease proposal on a new Terex TL48 bucket truck for the city. After adjournment of the board of Aldermen meeting, the City of Salem Capital Improvement Committee and Finance Committee will hold a joint meeting at 6:00. Following an update on the 2020-2021 fiscal year projects and overall financial status, there will be a discussion of proposed 2021-2022 capital projects along with a discussion of other 2021-2022 budgeted items before adjourning. The meeting this evening of the board of Aldermen, Capital Improvement committee, and the Finance committee are open to the public.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education met Thursday for their regular meeting. Superintendent Dr. Lynne Reed told the board the open enrollment has been completed for our new insurance before reviewing budget revisions for June. Reed stated she was still working on increasing the starting pay to $10.00 for all support staff before sharing the results of the building climate survey with the board. She also said the Central Office will continue to work on communications for the 21-22 school year. After the building reports, the board approved the adult meal prices for the 2021-2022 school year. They will be $2.50 for breakfast and $4.00 for lunch. The board approved the purchase of two leased busses for $64,000 per bus before approving both a fall and spring softball schedule for 2021-2022. The board went on to approve a contract with Shield Solutions in the amount of $8,500 and also the bid to remove a trailer. The board tabled bids on a storage building, but did accept the surplus property bids. They also agreed to keep the next meeting date for June 17th, 2021. The board accepted the resignations of high school math instructor George Alex, middle school football coach Richard Beckett, upper elementary nurse Kristina Barton, paraprofessionals Katelyn Swyers and Shelly Kerr, and Tabitha Mackley will leave food service and move to transportation. The board then went into closed session.

The 136th Graduation of the Salem R-80 High School will be held this evening at 7:00 at the Salem High School Football Field. After the procession of 132 graduating students, the National Anthem will be performed by Jake Casper, Audrey Crocker, Tristan James, Ashton Monk, McKenzie Norfolk, and Annabelle Pryor. Assistant Principal Conrad Prugh will then present the Senior Class Citizenship Award as well as the Best All-Around Boy and Girl Award. Principal Marty Anderson will introduce two Salutatorians, Amy Chen and Tyler Seabaugh, as well as the five Valedictorians that include Ryon Coursen, Brecklyn Holtz, Monica Jessen, Martin Jones and Isabella Knaack. Anderson will also recognize the A Plus students, students who are entering the military, as well as those entering the work force and going to college. Diplomas will then be awarded to the Class of 2021 students followed by the recessional. The graduation exercises will be streamed live on www.ksmoradio.com on Twitch, on Facebook at “KSMO Stream” and the stream is also available on the Salem R-80 web site at www.salemr80.org and that will be on YouTube. There is no charge to stream the services. Graduation DVD’S will be available to order from KSMO. To purchase a DVD please call 729-6117.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital regular board meeting was held Tuesday at noon in the Hospital Library. In the summary of operations for the month of April, the hospital had 99 inpatient admissions with 248 inpatient census days. The average amount of patients per day in Acute Care was 8.3. The hospital showed a loss from operations of $440,841 and expenses over revenues after taxes of $428,788. During the month, there were 587 emergency room visits to go with 179 ambulance runs where 126 patients were transported, 109 medical/surgical cases, 1,745 outpatient registrations, 6,343 lab tests, 1,264 radiological procedures, 184 Home Health visits and 716 rehab treatments. The cash flow statement showed the hospital had a cash decrease for the month of $522,916 and the days in accounts receivable was at 88, a decrease of 4 days from March. The Acute Care Staffing by Patient Acuity report showed the average acuity at 18 per day with 8 average patients per day. During the Covid update it was reported that May 7th was the last Covid vaccine clinic, and 89 doses of Pfizer vaccine were administered. Lucas was asked what people are to do that want the Covid vaccine and he said that they would need to contact the Dent County Health Center. Lucas noted that the door screeners have been removed and those individuals were transitioned to part-time positions. He noted that the Hospital will continue to monitor positivity rates and active cases in Dent County for changes that need be made in the visitor policy. Lucas reported that the next meeting of the Hospital Auxiliary is scheduled for September 7th. Chief Operating Officer Jason Edwards said the Golf Tournament is scheduled for June 4th and the hospital has received 16 sponsorships so far and 18 teams have signed up. Edwards said the TytoCare Program was ran through with a rural school and was completed May 4th. SMDH is reviewing the telemedicine consent form for approval. Edwards noted that the next steps are to approve consent forms and attain Tytocare kits for surrounding rural schools. He said the goal is for the SMDH Rural School Telemedicine Program to begin with the 2021-2022 school year. Lucas gave the Chief of Staff Report and said that a Med-Staff meeting was held May 17th with Summary of Operations, Chief Nursing Report, and Pharmacy and Therapeutics being discussed. He said Courtesy Staff privileges for Saman Ibrahim, M.D. and Monica Drylewicz, M.D., both Teleradiologists, were approved and recommended for Board approval. The recommendation was approved by the Board. In old business Lucas reported on the hospital expansion and said the new water heater and water softener has been installed which finishes the expansion project. He said a final walk through with the architect was done and a “punch list” of things to be done was created. Lucas said the Cerner Conversion for payroll continues and the first payroll using Cerner will be dated July 2nd. He also said the departments are all working on creating workbooks for the conversion to be done in early fall with Microsoft Dynamics 365. Lucas said the finance committee met May 14th and approved the proposed budget for review and Board approval. Finance Committee Chair Mike Swyers reviewed the proposed budget with the Board and it was approved. There were no purchases for the month to discuss. Board Chair Judy Thompson read a thank you card from Karen Brown, who was attending her last SMDH Board meeting. Brown will be retiring in June after 20 of service to the Hospital. The Board voted to adjourn and then went into closed session.

Make plans to attend the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Expo. It will be held this Saturday from 10:00 in the morning until 1:00 that afternoon at the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center parking lot at the Crossroads shopping center. The Business Expo is a great opportunity for area businesses to introduce themselves to potential customers and showcase their products and services. One table will be provided for each chamber member who reserves a booth and tents are also welcome. A business who is not a chamber member may participate but will have to purchase their booth space or inquire about becoming a chamber member. Giveaways, drawings, and samples are encouraged for participants, but exhibitors are NOT eligible for prizes. For more information or to get an entry form, call Tabitha today at the Salem Area of Commerce office at 729-6900 or e-mail her at chamber@salemmo.com.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will be meeting this evening at 6:00 in the High School Library for their regular meeting. After the consent agenda the Board will hear communications. Superintendent Dr. Lynne Reed will report on a variety of issues, followed by Administration Reports. In new business the board will approve meal prices for 2021-2022, consider bus purchases, consider fall and spring softball schedule for 2021-2022, consider bids for a storage building, and set the June meeting date if different from June 17th. The Board will then hear resignations before adjourning and moving into Executive Session for the discussion of personnel. The regular Board meeting in the High School Library is open to the public.

The Alice Lou Craig Municipal Swimming Pool will be opening this weekend and Family Pool Passes are still available for $160 which is good for four people. Any additional family members can be added for $45 per person. Private Pool Parties can also be booked starting at $150 for an hour. For a pool party during regular hours, the cost is $75 which includes thew use of the pavilion and 10 guests. Aerobics and swim lessons will again be offered this year. The pool will be open Monday through Saturday from noon until 6:00 PM and Sunday afternoon from 1:00 until 6:00. The daily cost is $4.00 for children, $5.00 for adults and seniors 62 and older can get in for $4.00. For more information, call 729-6290 of 573-247-6031.

An accident occurred in Dent County Tuesday afternoon at 5:16 on Route 68 about 2 miles north of Salem. According to the highway patrol report a northbound 1995 GMC Pickup, driven by 24-year-old Zhackiary Heuser of Cook Station, struck a northbound 2000 Ford F150, driven by 64-year-old Jerry Norris, of Salem, in the rear as the Ford was making a right turn. Norris and an 8-year-old Juvenile passenger in the Ford both suffered minor injuries and were transported by EMS to Salem Memorial District Hospital for treatment of their injuries. The report went on to state that all occupants of the two vehicles were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident. Both vehicles sustained moderate damage. The GMC was removed by the owner, while the Ford was able to be driven from the scene. The Highway Patrol was assisted by the Dent County at the scene by the Sheriff’s Office.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is set to launch a new canine unit through its Protection Branch this summer. The new unit, consisting of five dogs and their conservation agent-handlers, will be stationed around the state and used as necessary to work throughout Missouri. According to MDC, the capabilities of canines are extensive in conservation related
work, but common uses include tracking, evidence recovery, search and rescue, wildlife detection, and public outreach programs. Another rapidly growing use of canines is in the field of endangered and invasive species. There are currently 36 other states using dogs in their conservation efforts. Retriever-style dog breeds were specifically purchased for the MDC program, which consists of three Labrador Retrievers and two German Shorthaired Pointers. The dogs will be used for a variety of enforcement investigations, such as evidence recovery and wildlife trafficking. They will also be used in public outreach programs at fairs and schools. MDC has partnered with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, which has its own canine training program, to provide certified canine training services. The canine handlers and their partners initiated a rigorous nine-week training program with Indiana DNR in February and graduated from the program May 14th. The launch of the MDC canine unit is supported through a partnership with both Diamond Pet Foods and Purina, which sponsored the canine team and is providing dog food.

A carnival with proceeds to benefit Grace Harbor Homeless Shelter will be held this Saturday afternoon May 22nd from 2:00 until 5:00 at the Salem United Methodist Church. Tickets may be purchased in advance by contacting Kathy Bryant at 739-9163 or Jenny Summers at 247-7062. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. You are invited to bring your lawn chair, blanket, and your family and friends. Please keep in mind that smoking, vaping, and drugs and alcohol are not allowed on the grounds of the church.

A summer “kick off” will take place at Akers for the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The free event features an open-air celebration of the
Akers community beginning at 9:00 this Saturday. The lawn around the Akers Visitor Center will host information booths and exhibits about historic communities on the banks of the Current River. Participants will be able to take part in activities including a paddle from Welch to Akers, a self-guided hike to Welch Spring and cave, a tour of Mt. Zion Church, and a tour of Akers Cemetery with a civil war “ghost”. Ozark National Scenic Riverways preserves the free-flowing Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, the surrounding natural resources, and the unique cultural heritage of the Ozark people. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/ozar or call (573) 323-4236.

Monday evening Shawn Bolerjack, Chairman of the City of Salem Utility Committee, called the Committee meeting to order. Tammy Walker of Heartland Metal spoke requesting research be done to determine what Heartland’s high water consumption discount is. She noted that the rate is needed for future operations and planning. The discount incentive on electric usage from February 8th through May 15th for customers paying their bill in full with no prior balance due was discussed. The Committee decided to recommend to the Board of Aldermen a 5% discount credit for customers electing to pay using option #1. A sample bill for February 8th through May 15th and an informational letter were discussed. During the fiscal update of utilities City Administrator Ray Walden reported that revenue received for electricity usage was $3,563,525, which is about 65% of the 5.5 million that was budgeted. He went on to report that water revenue was at $641,243, which is 80% of the $800,000 budgeted and that sewage revenue was at $610,886, which is 76% of the $800,000 that was budgeted. Some discussion was held on higher utility bills with the new meters. Administrator Walden noted that the City can have meters tested by an independent agency and if they are faulty the City pays for the testing and adjusts the bill. If the meter is accurate the customer is responsible for the cost of the test and their utility bill amount. The Utility Committee meeting was followed by the Salem Board of Aldermen meeting. In the Hearing of Persons Skip Dahms of 404 West Fourth will be conducting a kids’ festival June 12th and requested that Fourth Street between Henderson and McArthur be blocked off from 12 noon until 4:00. His request was approved by the Board of Aldermen. Police Chief Joe Chase presented information about the cost of renovation of the Police Department Dispatch Center. Chase listed several reasons for the renovation including safety, security, and meeting state and federal requirements for privacy. The renovation cost of $26,492.01 was approved by the Board. Public Works Director Mark Nash presented the bids for undercarriage repair of the 555G John Deere crawler. The bids were for $9,859.78 by Woolf Equipment and $12,441.12 by Erb Equipment. The Board of Alderman approved the bid by Woolf Equipment. Bill #3477, an ordinance authorizing the Mayor to sign and execute task order No. 10 pertaining to an agreement between the City of Salem and C. M. Archer Group, P.C. dated February 3, 2020 for engineering design services related to Phase 2 Improvements at the Waste Water Treatment Facility was approved. Resolution No. 16-2021 adopting a policy based on Utility Committee recommendations to rebate 5% of the stated electric usage billed from February 8, 2021 through May 15, 2021 and processed as a credit to customers’ accounts passed 4-0. City Administrator Ray Walden reported that the January through February utility bills had gone out and that the next bill will be for February 15th through May 15th and is to be mailed June 1st. He noted that correspondence approved by the Utility Committee and the Board of Aldermen would be sent to customers this week. Walden reported on total Sales Tax receipts with one more month to go in the fiscal year. The General Fund receipts were $1,146,633 and $1,012,071 was the budgeted amount. The Parks and Recreation Fund receipts are $392,568 with $375,000 budgeted and the Capital Improvements Sales Tax receipts to date are $523,317 with $500,000 being the budgeted amount. Walden also reported the Utility Revenue amounts that were shared at the Utility Committee meeting. Alderman Bolerjack asked about the Job Posting for City Clerk. Walden said that the recruiter received 13 applications in the first search round. Screenings are scheduled for the 2nd round and interviews will follow that. He said applications were submitted from local individuals, from across the state, and even out of state. Alderman Parker asked about progress on the digger truck. Mark Nash said the truck is supposed to be in this week. Alderman Nash asked about progress on Al Brown Fields. Walden said the issue would be considered by the Capital Improvements Committee. Mayor Nash’s appointment of Brett Capps to the Salem Public Library Board was approved by the Aldermen. The Aldermen voted to go into closed session and the meeting was adjourned.

Grace Harbor Homeless Shelter will be having a benefit fundraiser concert on Saturday, May 22nd, at the Salem Methodist Church, 801 East Scenic Rivers Boulevard. The Concert will kick off Saturday afternoon at 5:30 with Bill Bryant and Friends sharing Bluegrass and Gospel music. Bryant and his group will be followed by Collin Nash at 7:00. Nash will sing several country selections during his concert. Tickets for the Concert can be purchased in advance and are $20.00 per person or $35.00 per couple. Tickets during the day of the Concert are $25.00 per person. Advance tickets may be purchased by contacting Kathy Bryant at 739-9163 or Jenny Summers at 247-7062. Since the event is a fundraiser there are no refunds rain or shine. All proceeds go to Grace Harbor Homeless Shelter. Please keep in mind that no smoking, vaping, drugs or alcohol are allowed on the grounds of the Salem Methodist Church.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning in the Courthouse. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles, on behalf of the Commissioners, expressed condolences to the family of former State Representative and Senator Dan Brown. Skiles noted that Brown had been a much respected state legislator and friend. Dee and Maria Jessen were in inquiring about the status of the gate on Dent County Road 4128. First District Commissioner Wes Mobray said he was waiting on County Surveyor Michelle Elwood to finalize her report of the survey, which will then be presented to Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley to determine how to proceed. In the road report Mobray said that two men were taking Truck #125 to Columbia to figure out why the truck won’t start and he said it runs fine once started.
He said brush was being cut on Dent County Road 5600 and two men were repairing the backhoe, plus grader #38 was being serviced. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson said that his crew continues adding materials to the Conservation roads, Dent County Roads 2520 and 2530. He said he had 4 trucks hauling and that the job must be completed by June 1. Larson noted that the rest of his crew was checking roads for washouts and cleaning out culverts. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles reported that on Tuesday he attended the Ozark Solid Waste Management District Board meeting where they reviewed grant applications. He also said that they heard an interesting presentation by Barbara Lucks from Bedhead Mattress Re-cycling of Springfield. Skiles said the full council will meet June 15th and the Annual Banquet is planned for November 30th. He said that on Wednesday morning he will be attending the MAC Board meeting and the CCAM Board meeting during the afternoon. Skiles reported that the State Legislature adjourned Friday and they approved tying another county elected office holder’s salary to State Judges salaries, which in turn are tied to Federal Judges salaries and are set by Washington, D.C. This is an unfunded mandate that sets County Sheriff’s salaries at a minimum of $72,500 based on county assessment. Skiles said that Commissioners talked to Legislators and they were told that basically the Legislators didn’t care what Commissioners thought. He said that if Governor Parson signs the bill into law without a special session to correct flaws in the bill it will cost Dent County $18,800 per year, plus benefits, and in some counties the increase will be over $30,000. He went on to note that it’s pretty disgusting that Missouri Legislators have decided how to spend Missouri counties’ tax dollars. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said that bills were being approved for payment and that she balanced with the Collector and Assessor on all monthly collections, add-ons, and abatements for the month of April and the Commissioners reviewed her reports. At 10:00 the Commissioners conducted a budget hearing to account for the Department of Revenue call back and withholding. The revised budget was approved 3-0. The next regular meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday morning at 9:00 in the Dent County Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

A drowning occurred Sunday evening in Franklin County on the Meramec River at Meramec State Park near the campground boat access. The report from the highway patrol states that 17-year-old William Bergner of Bourbon attempted to swim across the river when he became exhausted and submerged under the water and lost the ability to resurface. Bergner was pronounced dead at 7:51 by Dr. Peter McCarthy at Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan.

The 136th Graduation of the Salem R-80 High School will be held Friday night at 7:00 at the Salem High School Football Field. After the procession of students, the Salem High School band will perform the National Anthem. Assistant Principal Conrad Prugh will present the Senior Class Citizenship Awards, the Missouri Seal of Biliteracy Awards as well as the Best All-Around Boy and Girl Award. Principal Marty Anderson will introduce the Salutatorian, Amy Chen and Tyler Seabaugh, as well as the eleven Valedictorians that include Ryon Coursen, Brecklyn Holtz, Monica Jessen, Martin Jones and Isabella Knaack. Anderson will also recognize the A Plus students, students who are entering the military as well as those entering the work force and going to college. Diplomas will then be awarded to the Class of 2021 students followed the recessional. The graduation exercises will be streamed live on www.ksmoradio.com on Twitch, on Facebook at “KSMO Stream” and the stream is also available on the Salem R-80 website at www.salemr80.org and that will be on YouTube. There is no charge to stream the services. All broadcasts will be in HD.

An accident happened just after noon Monday afternoon in Crawford County on Highway E five miles east of Steelville. The report from the highway patrol states that a 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer being driven by 39-year-old Brent Setzer of Steelville traveled off the right side of the roadway causing the driver to overcorrect. The vehicle then crossed the center lane and Setzer overcorrected again causing the vehicle to overturn and travel off the left side of the road before coming to a stop. Setzer suffered serious injuries and taken by Air Evac to Mercy Hospital in Creve Couer. The Trailblazer was totaled and removed from the scene by Miles and Sons Towing.

Utility Committee Chairman Shawn Bolerjack has called for a meeting of the city of Salem’s Utility Committee tonight at 6:00 at City Hall Council Chambers. The agenda for the meeting includes a review of a high water consumption discount, a discussion of a discount incentive on electric usage from February 8th through May 15th, 2021 for customers paying their bill in full and having no prior balance due. There will also be a discussion to review a sample bill for usage from February 8th, 2021 through May 15th, 2021 and an informational cover letter to be sent to customers followed by an update on fiscal year-to-date utility financials before adjourning. Following the utility committee meeting, the City of Salem Board of Aldermen will be meeting at 7:00 in the City Hall Council Chambers. After the roll call, Skip Dahms will ask the board to permit the blocking off of a section of Fourth Street between Henderson and McArthur Streets for a kids’ festival to be held on June 12th. After approval of the consent agenda, the aldermen will discuss bids for renovation of the Police department dispatch call center and for undercarriage repair on a John Deere 555G crawler. Bill #3477 will be introduced and read which is an ordinance authorizing the mayor to sign and execute task order #10 pertaining to an agreement between the city of Salem and C.M. Archer Group P.C. dated February 3rd, 2020 for engineering design services related to the Phase 2 improvements at the wastewater treatment facility. Resolution #16-2021 would adopt a policy on the utility committee recommendation of utility credits for the city of Salem. The aldermen will then hear a report from City Administrator Ray Walden on issues concerning the city. Also at the meeting, a library committee appointment will be made by Mayor Brad Nash. The board may go into closed session before adjourning. The City of Salem Utility Committee meeting and the Board of Aldermen meeting this evening are both open to the public.

The Salem Police Department has released their report for the month of April. They served 18 summonses to appear in court, gave out 69 warning tickets, and 13 traffic tickets, plus they also served 2 fugitive warrants. The Salem Police department investigated 17 traffic accidents, wrote 5 property damage reports, 17 stealing reports, and investigated 2 identity thefts. The department also investigated three driving while having a license revoked or suspended, a resisting or interfering with an arrest, a violation of an exparte or full order of protection, four possessions of a controlled substance as well as three domestic violence reports, investigated two nuisance violations and conducted two death investigations. The department was also dispatched for 37 animal calls, 21 ambulance assist calls, and performed 88 traffic stops for the month. The Department also conducted 59 follow-up investigations, one leaving the scene of an accident, and responded to 26 suspicious subjects and also performed 24 well-being checks. The Salem Police Department received 951 calls for service during the month of April and had 43 walk-ins to the station. The department drove 8,180 miles during the month of April. There were 16 males and 13 females arrested during the month. The Police Department also served 4 hours as court bailiff during the month.

A summer “kick off” will take place at Akers for the Ozark National Scenic Riverways. The free event features an open-air celebration of the
Akers community beginning at 9:00 this Saturday. The lawn around the Akers Visitor Center will host information booths and exhibits about historic communities on the banks of the Current River. Those with a connection to the upper Current River community will have an opportunity to share memories with everyone in attendance. In accordance with the federal mask mandate, face masks will be required for entry into Mt. Zion Church. Social distancing will be implemented for outdoor activities and face masks will be required whenever visitors are unable to maintain a six-foot distance from those outside their household. Participants will be able to take part in activities including a paddle from Welch to Akers, a self-guided hike to Welch Spring and cave, a tour of Mt. Zion Church, and a tour of Akers Cemetery with a civil war “ghost”. Ozark National Scenic Riverways preserves the free-flowing Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, the surrounding natural resources, and the unique cultural heritage of the Ozark people. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/ozar or call (573) 323-4236.

A carnival with proceeds to benefit Grace Harbor Homeless Shelter will be held this Saturday afternoon May 22nd from 2:00 until 5:00. Tickets may be purchased in advance by contacting Kathy Bryant at 739-9163 or Jenny Summers at 247-7062. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. You are invited to bring your lawn chair, blanket, family and friends. Smoking, vaping, drugs and alcohol are not allowed on the grounds of the church.

City utility bills for consumption from January 9th, 2021 through February 8th, 2021 were mailed last week. If you have not received your bill or if you have questions about your bill, please stop by or call the utility office at (573) 729-4117. In response to user requests for utility billing to reflect more recent consumption the next utility bills will be for consumption from February 8th, 2021 through May 15th, 2021 with customers having the option to pay their account in full or if eligible, to request a payment plan. Penalties and disconnects for non-payment will resume on July 1st, 2021. Information about the upcoming bills for consumption through 5/15/2021 along with any updated information regarding utility bills will be mailed to utility customers on or around May 19th, 2021. If you have a past-due balance, please bring your account current or make payment arrangements by July 1st, 2021 to avoid being disconnected. Are you in need of utility payment assistance? Make it easy to seek financial assistance through the South Central Community Action Agency, Catholic Charities, and The Salvation Army Dent County Service Unit. These organizations will be available each Tuesday through the end of May from 10:30 in the morning until 1:00 in the afternoon at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory at 1200 West Rolla Road. Check the www.salemmo.com website for information on available resources for assistance or call (573) 729-4117.

The Missouri Department of Conservation has announced it has updated its website to offer a new look and better navigation for users. According to MDC, most of the web content will remain where it was while other content has been moved to better fit where visitors expect to find it. MDC had about 6.8 million visitors to its website last year. You can visit MDC’s updated website for a new look and easier navigation at mdc.mo.gov. Key improvements users may notice are better search results thanks to a new search engine powering the site, easier to find information on buying permits, and a new section on invasive and nuisance animal and plant species. Popular webpages that have been improved include “Places to Go” to discover nature on MDC areas, the online “Field Guide” to help users identify Missouri plants and animals, and the hunting and fishing “Species A-Z” pages to help identify game species. The new website also provides a better user experience on mobile devices, specifically Android devices. Some Android users reported having navigation issues on our existing website, so MDC wanted to ensure the new site works smoothly on all devices. The number-one goal of the MDC website is to have as many visitors complete the tasks they came to the site for as quickly and easily as possibly. It was noted that the staff used input from the website’s public comment form and regular website survey results to determine changes and priorities when working on the website.

SEMO Behavioral Health’s Show Me Hope Crisis Counseling Program will host the first annual Mental Health Awareness Walk/Run this Saturday at the Salem City Park in Salem. This free event will begin at 3:00 and is designed to raise awareness and remove stigmas associated with mental health in our community during Mental Health Awareness Month. In addition to the Walk/Run, there will be food available for purchase including burgers, hot dogs and baked goods. Local vendors will also be on hand to display their products and community mental health partners will distribute information about local services and there will be prize drawings in addition to activities and giveaways for the kids. For more information taking part in the Mental Health Awareness Walk/Run please contact Jodie Richter, Crisis Counselor, by emailing hrichter@semobh.org or call 573-330-2544.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors will conduct their May meeting at noon on Tuesday in the hospital library. After the approval of the minutes from the April 20th meeting, Hospital Administrator Kasey Lucas will report on the summary of the operations and statistics for the month of April followed by the Chief of Nursing Report from Debbie Hines. A report on the hospital foundation, plus the marketing and community perception report will be given by Chief Operating Officer Jason Edwards. Lucas will give the Chief of Staff report before he gives an update on the Hospital expansion and renovation, Cerner conversion, and a report on the Finance Committee Meeting. New business may consist of the review of purchases since the last meeting and a report on the SMDH imaging. The board may vote to go into closed session. The SMDH Board meeting is open to the public provided they wear a mask to the meeting.

Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley has released some reports from court held in Dent County on May 6th with Judge Megan Seay presiding. Curley indicated that Sheena Hodge of Waynesville pled guilty to two counts of the distribution of prescription pills to an undercover South Central Missouri Drug Task Force officer. Hodge was sentenced to 15 years in the Department of Corrections under RSMO 559.115 as requested by the prosecutor. Also on May 6th, Kendall Collins of Poplar Bluff pled guilty to two counts of felony driving while her license had been revoked. Collins was sentenced to serve two years in the Department of Corrections as requested by the state and agreed to by Collins who had a prior felony history.

An accident happened Wednesday morning just after 7:00 on Highway 19 about 9 miles south of Salem. According to the report from the highway patrol, a 1997 Chevrolet pickup being driven by 28-year-old Zachary Quick of Salem, was traveling south when the vehicle traveled off the right side of the road. Quick then overcorrected, crossed over the roadway and
traveled off the left side of the road before overturning. Quick was transported by the Salem Ambulance to the Salem Memorial District Hospital for the treatment of minor injuries. The Chevrolet sustained moderate damage and was removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing. The report went on to state that Quick was not wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The highway patrol was assisted on the scene by the Dent County Sheriff’s Department.

Hunters may apply for this falls elk and bear season permits through May 31st. Five permits will be available for elk. At least one permit will be approved area landowners with qualifying property and the remainder for the general public. The nine-day archery season for eld will be October 16th through October 24th and a 9-day firearm season running through December 11th through the 19th. The five permits will be for bull elk and will be valid for both portions. All permits will be assigned through a random drawing. Only Missouri residents are eligible to apply for and purchase elk hunting permits. MDC will require a $10.00 nonrefundable application fee for all applicants. Those selected for each of the five permits must pay a $50.00 application fee. All permits are nontransferable. Results of the random elk permit drawing will be available by July 1st. Applicants can check to see if they’ve been selected for and elk hunting permit at online at mdc.mo.gov/buypermits by logging into “Mange your account” and selecting “view my special hunt history”. Those hunters interested in hunting black bear will find four hundred permits offered for the state’s first black bear hunting season, taking place October 18th through October 27th in the outlined bear management zones. Each permit will be for a specific bear management zone and may be used on public or private property within the BMZ. Hunters who are issued permits must call MDC prior to hunting each day to determine if the BMZ specific harvest quota has been met. If a BMZ specific harvest quota has been met then the season for that particular zone will be closed. Should harvest quotas not be reached the season will end at the end of the 10 designated hunting days. Hunters can apply until the end of May for either the fall elk or black bear season online at mdc.mo.gov/buypermits, through MDC’s free MO Hunting app, or through a permit vendor.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol, a premier law enforcement agency, is testing for new troopers. The Patrol is encouraging qualified individuals of all backgrounds to apply, and will offer testing at nine different locations in Missouri. Those who successfully complete testing will be eligible to continue in the selection process for the 113th Recruit Class which is scheduled to begin training on January 18, 2022. The application deadline is September 18, 2021. To be eligible, candidates must possess a minimum of 30 college credit hours from an accredited college/university or served in any component of the United States Armed Forces, including National Guard, for a minimum of two years, with an honorable discharge if separated, or a minimum of two years’ experience as a full-time, POST-certified peace officer when recruit training begins. The starting annual salary for trooper is $49,536, and following three years of service, the trooper first class’ salary is increased to $52,200. Other benefits include group health insurance, contributory retirement, career advancement, and more. Interested persons can find out more about the qualifications by contacting a Patrol recruiter at telephone number 1-800-796-7000, or may apply online at www.motrooper.com.

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Expo will be Saturday May 22nd from 10:00 in the morning until 1:00 that afternoon at the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center parking lot at the Crossroads shopping center. The Business Expo is an exceptional opportunity for area businesses to advertise their products and services. Sales are allowed at the Chamber Expo however no alcohol, tobacco or drug related item are permitted on the property. No food sales will be allowed, only samples and giveaways will be permitted. One table will be provided for each chamber member who reserves a booth and tents are welcome. Non-members who wish to participate may contact the Chamber office to purchase booth space. Giveaways, drawings, and samples are encouraged from participants however exhibitors are not eligible for prizes. Participants will be able to set up during the morning of the 22nd between 8:00 and 10:00 and the setups must be complete when the event starts at 10:00. For more information or to get an entry form, call Tabitha at the Salem Area of Commerce office at 573-729-6900 or e-mail her at chamber@salemmo.com or stop bv in the Crossroads Shopping Center.

In what appears to be a murder/suicide at a residence in Phelps County Saturday morning is being investigated by the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department. The incident occurred on Phelps County Road 3160. The Phelps County Coroner’s Office reported 73-year-old Lawrence R. French and 66-year-old Vita M. French died from gunshot wounds. Sheriff Kirn stated the individuals had not been seen for several days and their bodies were discovered by a family friend checking on them. The Phelps County Sheriff’s Department was assisted on scene by the Rolla Rural Fire Department and Phelps County Coroner Ernie Coverdell. If anyone has any information about the incident, please call the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department at (573) 426-3860 or 426-2936.

Missouri Department of Transportation bridge crews will be making bridge deck repairs on Highway 19 this week over Interstate 44. Crews will close one lane of the work area from 7:00 in the morning until 4:30 Thursday afternoon. This work is weather permitting and could be delayed. MoDOT appreciates the patience of motorist traveling through the work area. Drivers are advised to watch for workers on the road and obey all traffic signs. For more information and updates about this project or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org/central. Follow the MoDOT Central Missouri District on Facebook and Twitter for project updates.

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation shows that turkey hunters checked 31,798 birds during Missouri’s 2021 regular spring turkey season, April 19th through May 9th. Top harvest counties were Franklin with 710 birds telechecked, Texas with 666, and Callaway with 639. Dent County had a total of 582 turkeys checked, Phelps County had 659, and Iron County saw 137 birds checked. Across the state young turkey hunters also harvested 2,795 birds over the youth weekend, April 10th and 11th, bringing the overall 2021 spring turkey harvest to 34,593. Last year, young turkey hunters harvested 2,724 birds during the spring youth season and hunters harvested 38,734 during the regular spring season for a 2020 spring season total harvest of 41,458 birds. The spring turkey harvest was down this year, which can partially be explained by a decline in hunting participation according to MDC officials who went on to say that last year they saw a big increase in the number of permits sold and there was a subsequent increase in turkey harvest. This year, the permit sales total was closer to what was observed before the 2020 season. When turkey hunting participation declines, they expect to see a subsequent decline in turkey harvest. MDC had one report of a non-fatal hunting incident during the 2021 spring turkey season. For more information about turkey hunting in Missouri, visit MDC online at huntfish.mdc.mo.gov.

An accident happened late Saturday afternoon at just after 5:00 in Maries County on Highway 28 and Route E. The report from the highway patrol states that a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta being driven by 88-year-old Earl Arnold of Rolla was traveling west on E and failed to stop at the stop sign, crossed the intersection and traveled off the west side of highway 28. Arnold was transported by private conveyance to Phelps Health for treatment of minor injuries. A passenger in the vehicle, 82-year-old Jacquelyn Arnold, also of Rolla, was transported by Dixon Ambulance Service to Phelps Heath for treatment of minor injuries. The report went on to state that both occupants were wearing seat restraints at the time of the accident. The Volkswagen sustained moderate damage and was towed from the scene by Tunes Towing.

Residents and students of Phelps and Dent counties are asked to participate in online surveys, one for students and one for general public, about the potential for the creation of a Southeast Missouri Transportation Services (SMTS) deviated fixed-route bus service in the Rolla area with possible connections to St. James and Salem. The surveys are available at meramecregion.org/surveys. SMTS in conjunction with the Meramec Regional Planning Commission is conducting the feasibility study for the potential new route. This bus service would be modeled after the Bluff Area Transit Service in Poplar Bluff and the Connect Service in St. Francois County, both of which are operated by SMTS. Both systems have fees ranging from $1 per boarding, $3 all-day passes, as well as pre-paid punch cards with discounted prices. While the Rolla service would not be identical to Bluff Area Transit Service or Connect in the number of stops or pricing, it will likely operate very similar, if such a service is found to be a possibility. Feedback is critical to determining the viability of such a service in the Phelps and Dent counties area. SMTS has contracted with MRPC to conduct the feasibility study. SMTS is a nonprofit general public passenger transportation service. SMTS transportation services are available throughout South Central and Southeast Missouri. For more information, please contact Anne Freand, MRPC planning department manager, via email at afreand@meramecregion.org or via phone at 573-265-2993 ext. 105.