Local News

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen met Tuesday night at the city hall council chambers. At the meeting, the board recognized Rachel Hinderliter with a plaque for her service as alderman as she had to resign due to her moving from the Ward she served. Since Mayor Brad Nash was not in attendance due to an illness, the board tabled appointing a replacement for Hinderliter for the East Ward Aldermanic seat. In the hearing of persons, Tod Kinerk, the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce President, and Tabitha Utley, Chamber Director, were in to update the board on the chamber activities. Kinerk wanted to thank the city for their continued support of the chamber. He said the chamber did well last year in their new office in the Crossroads Shopping Center as Kinerk indicated that visitors, requests and contacts increased every month over the last eight months since they have changed locations. She said the chamber took advantage of the PPP program and CARES Act funding to cover payroll and other costs as well as to provide for a 24-hour kiosk. They also were helped by grants from the Tourism Tax Committee to erect a new 6 by 12 foot digital sign and to help with the new building. The board also heard from Teresa Stark who addressed them again in regards to her concerns with a neighbor and the response from the police. After the consent agenda was approved that included the sales tax receipts from the state for the General Revenue Fund, Capital Improvement Fund, and Park and Recreation Funds for the calendar year 2020. Alderman Kevin James discussed the City of Salem Utility Committee workshop last week and two more meetings that were held to discuss funding options for the Phase 2 portion of the Salem Waste Water Treatment Plant improvements. James said they looked at a number of options and they recommended to the Board of Alderman to go with the Certificates of Participation to fund the work to be done. City Administrator Ray Walden discussed with the board the communications work group that worked on trying to find the best way to disseminate important information to as many people as possible through anorganized and systematic system concerning city events, emergencies, road closures and more as well creating marketing and branding goals. To that end, the group came up with the plan to advertise for a firm or person to evaluate what need to be done to develop strategic plans, media relations, marketing and event support, create a social media plan and more. Walden also reported on the sales tax receipt figures from the state for the City of Salem fiscal year and how they affected the budgeted revenue figures. Walden said that as of right now, the General Revenue Fund has received $743,711.83 which makes up 73% of the amount budgeted for that fund. He also said the Capital Improvement Sales Tax Fund has received $371,856.45 and the Park and Recreation Sales Tax Fund has received $278,705.60 which makes up 74% of the amounts budgeted for those funds for the fiscal year from July 1st, 2020 to June 30th, 2021. He also said the real estate and property tax receipts for the City of Salem from the county collector came in at $307,083.57 which is above the budgeted figure of $300,000. Public Works Director Mark Nash stated the city received some equipment this week, but indicated the modules for the water meters would not be in until May. He said the water meters will be in sooner and Nash said he may have the workers go ahead and put in the meters where they can be manually read. He also said since the city has checked the fire hydrants, they have shut off the ones that need repair and have saved millions of gallons of water over the last two months. Those hydrants can be turned back on by the fire department in case of an emergency. The board approved Resolution #1-2021 adopting a temporary emergency sick leave policy due to COVID-19 State of Missouri emergency declaration, approved Resolution #2-2021 adopting the City of Salem Marketing and Communications plan, and approved Resolution #3-2021 about establishing Residential Demolition Program agreements with property owners to share the cost to remove or demolish structures that substandard, hazardous, or are danger to public health on a 50/50 cost basis, or on a 100% basis if the property owner transfers the ownership of the property to the city. The board also approved Bill #3471 that allows the city to apply for a TAP grant to be used for ADA sidewalk improvements and light poles for the Salem downtown beautification plan on 4th Street. The board heard from Park and Recreation Director Melissa DuBois about the need for vouchers for the City of Salem basketball program to provide social distancing at the games, and they approved the destruction of a number of non-essential police record for the calendar year 2014. The meeting was then adjourned.

Salem Memorial District Hospital has announced that at this time they do NOT have Covid-19 vaccine for Phase 1B. The Hospital is doing everything they can to secure vaccine and will be working with the Dent County Health Center to roll out the vaccination plan when authorization has been received. When a confirmation date is received a mass drive-thru vaccination clinic will be held for all who meet the criteria for Phase 1B. SMDH will NOT be scheduling times to receive the vaccine for Phase 1B. Once SMDH has that date details will be posted on the SMDH website, the hospital Facebook page, the Dent County Health Center Facebook page, KSMO and the Salem News.

An accident happened Tuesday afternoon at 2:00 in Crawford County on Route M about a mile south of Highway 8 that took the life of a Salem man. According the highway patrol report, 78-year old James Vaughn of Salem was driving a 2003 Ford Taurus northbound when the vehicle went off the right side of the roadway and struck a driveway. The Taurus then overturned and struck a tree, ejecting Vaughn from the car. Vaughn was pronounced dead at the scene by the Crawford County Deputy Coroner Nikki Bussell at 2:18 in the afternoon. His body was released to the deputy coroner. Vaughn was not wearing a seat restraint when the accident happened. The Taurus was totaled and removed from the scene by Miles Towing.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital regular board meeting was held Tuesday evening in the Hospital Library. In the summary of operations for the month of December, the hospital had 104 inpatient admissions with 275 inpatient census days. Patients per day in Acute Care came is at 8.9. The hospital showed a loss from operations of $675,770 and expenses over revenues after taxes of $594,991. Total other revenue of $264,519 included funds from the CARES Act and the Small Hospital Improvement Program (SHIP) grant. The hospital has applied for the PPP Forgiveness loan and another $600,000 is expected in tax revenue. There were three payrolls in December that added to the extra expanse. The self-pay has improved, already surpassed what was collected last year with six more months remaining in the fiscal year. During the month, there were 556 emergency room visits to go with 186 ambulance runs with 115 patients being transported, 26 surgery cases, 1,747 outpatient registrations, 284 home health visits, 6,229 lab tests, 1,132 radiological procedures including 591 rehab treatments. Chief of Nursing Debbie Hines gave the Acute Care Staffing by Patient Acuity report that showed the average acuity at 29 per day. She also stated that the Sleep Study Accreditation is complete and the Dialysis Survey correction plan has been submitted and approved. Chief Operating Officer Jason Edwards reported due to COVID-19, the “Dancing with the Salem Stars” fundraiser was cancelled, while the Golf Tournament has been scheduled for June 4th and the Wings and Strings is tentatively scheduled for September 11. He went on to say the hospital has received the TytoCare-school focused telemedicine product and the pilot project with area schools will begin soon. Hospital Administrator Kasey Lucas gave the Medical Staff’s report that included their request for the board to approve Courtesy and Active Physician privileges for several doctors. The board approved the Courtesy Staff Physicians in open session, and Active Staff Physicians privileges in closed session. Lucas gave the COVID-19 update and said the hospital will continue the “no visitor” policy and that 192 vaccines have been administered to Health Care workers and First Responders. The current positivity rate for Dent County is 22.81% with 17% being considered a hot spot. The hospital is waiting on vaccines to administer as part of the Phase 1B plan. Lucas reported a new generator has been delivered as the final part of the hospital expansion project. Election filing for the District #2 seat currently held by Mike Swyers ended Tuesday with only Sywers filing, so no election will be needed. Ken Campbell with Archer-Elgin Engineers was present to explain the City of Salem Sewer Project. The city is currently finalizing the plans that will build a new grinder pump station for the hospital. It will be located between the hospital and the current lagoon with overhead electric lines running along the fence line. This pump station will collect wastewater generated by the hospital, sized to handle peak flow for the hospital, Seville Care Center and others along Highway 72. This project would take between 180 and 210 days to complete and will begin after bids are awarded in April. Hospital Facilities Manager Todd Workman agrees with the placement of the pump station on the hospital property. The board approved going ahead with the project with the location and drawings that were submitted. The Conflict of Interest Policy was tabled for a future meeting. The board then went into closed session.

An accident occurred in Dent County Monday morning at 7:50 on Route CC about eight miles west of Salem. According to the highway patrol report, 17-year-old Chance Bryson of Licking, fell asleep at the wheel allowing the westbound 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass he was driving to cross the center line and strike an eastbound 2011 Chevrolet Impala. The Chevrolet was being driven by 37-year-old Sheena Turner of Salem. Turner suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Salem Memorial District Hospital by EMS for the treatment of her injuries. The report stated that Turner was wearing her safety restraint at the time of the accident while Bryson was not wearing his. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene by American Muffler and Tire. The Oldsmobile was also totaled and removed by Jay’s Automotive and Towing. The Highway Patrol was assisted by the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and the Lenox Fire Department.

The Salem Board of Aldermen will hold its regular meeting tonight at 7:00 at the City Hall Council Chambers. Alderwoman Rachel Hinderliter has submitted her resignation due to moving out of the East Ward and she will be recognized for her service to the city. Mayor Brad Nash will then appoint someone to replace her until the next election on April 6th. 2021. In the hearing of persons, Tod Kinerk and Tabitha Utley from the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce will give the city updates on local chamber activities. Teresa Stark will address the alderman with her concerns about loud music in the neighborhood and citations. After the consent agenda, Alderman Kevin James will give the utility committee workshop and meeting report. City Administrator Ray Walden will update the aldermen on city projects and discuss a recommendation by the communications work group. In the introduction and reading of bills and resolutions, the board will hear Resolution #1-2021 adopting a temporary emergency sick leave policy due to COVID-19 State of Emergency Declaration. They will also hear Resolution #2-2021 adopting a City of Salem Marketing and Communications Plan before hearing Resolution #3-2021 that authorizes the mayor to execute property owner’s demolition program agreements. The board will then hear Bill #3471 that would create an ordinance to make an application for a TAP grant through the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission to provide funding for new ADA compliant sidewalks serving downtown businesses along 4th Street in accordance with Phase 1 of the city’s beautification plan. In new business, Salem Park and Recreation Director Melissa DuBois will discuss the need currently for attendance vouchers for Park and Recreation events at the Healthy Dent County gymnasium. The Salem Police Department will also request to destroy records from January through December of 2014 in accordance with the Police Clerk’s Records Retention Schedule manual. The meeting will then be adjourned. The meeting of the Salem Board of Aldermen will be open to the public.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors will conduct their January meeting this evening in the hospital library beginning at 6:00. After the call to order, Hospital Administrator Kasey Lucas will report on the summary of the operations for the month of December 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, which will then be followed by the Chief of Staff report. Lucas will then go over the COVID-19 update and provide an update to the board on the Hospital expansion and renovation, plus election filing. New business will include a “Conflict of Interest” Policy and purchases since the last meeting. The board may vote to go into closed session. Due to COVID-19 social distancing guidelines, the January meeting of the Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors will be conducted by zoom. The meeting is open to anyone to join. For information on how to access the meeting via zoom, please contact Karen Brown by email at kbrown@smdh.net or call her at (573) 729-5917, extension 4005.

The Phelps County Sheriff’s Department has issued a press release regarding a shooting Saturday night on Lakewood Drive outside of Doolittle. According to Phelps County Sheriff Michael Kim, at approximately 11:30 Saturday night, deputies responded to the 16000 block of Lakewood Drive for a report of multiple gun shots being fired at a party. After deputies arrived, it was discovered that one man had been fatally shot and another had been shot in the leg. Phelps County Deputies along with the Missouri State Highway Patrol and Rolla Police Department are actively investigating the incident. No further information has been released and no suspects have been taken into custody.

The Salem Police have released reports for early January. On New Years day at 10:24 in the morning an officer responded to the 1800 block of South Oak Street to attempt to locate a subject with an active arrest warrant. Upon further investigation the subject was located and the 23-year-old Salem male was arrested and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. On Wednesday, January 6th just after 11:05 in the morning an officer was dispatched to the 1200 block of east Third Street for a report of an overdose. Upon further investigation some subjects were seen fleeing the residence. Contact was made with the subjects and a consent search was conducted of the premises. As a result, a convicted felon was found to be in possession of a firearm. The firearm was seized, and a 46-year-old Salem man was arrested and later released to appear in court on a summons. Finally on the morning of the 7th at approximately 11:12 an officer was dispatched to Casey’s on highway 19 for a subject that appeared to be under the influence at the register. After speaking with the subject he was asked to exit the store. A probable cause search of the subject’s car uncovered a capsule suspected of being fentanyl and items of drug paraphernalia. As a result, a 24-year-old Salem man was arrested and later released on a summons to appear in court. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding an ongoing investigation.

Alderman Kevin James, Chairman of the City of Salem’s Utility Committee, has called a meeting Tuesday night at 6:00 in the City Hall Council Chambers located at 202 N. Washington to consider Waste Water Treatment Plant Phase 2 Improvements Funding Options. The meeting is open to the public.

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces that 31 troopers will graduate from the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy on Wednesday, January 20, 2021. The 110th Recruit Class reported to the Academy on August 3, 2020, to begin the 25-week training to become a trooper. The new troopers will report to duty in their assigned troops on February 16, 2021. Two of the graduates come from the local area. They are Trooper Derek M. Bradshaw of St. James who will report to Troop A and Zone 11 serving Cass County, and Keaton P. Hunt from Rolla who will report to Troop I and serve Zone 1 which includes Phelps and Maries Counties.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released reports for the first full week of January. On January 6th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop at Shawnee Mac Conservation Area. During the course of the traffic stop, a 25-year-old Salem man was arrested for driving while having his license revoked or suspended, a 1st offense. He was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. On January 7th a deputy conducted a traffic stop on Dent County Road 4180. During the course of the traffic stop, a 47-year-old Salem woman was arrested for driving while being intoxicated. She was transported to the Dent County Jail where she was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released to a family member. On Friday, January 8th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop Highway 72 and Route C. During the course of the traffic stop, a 58-year-old St. James man was arrested for driving while having his license revoked or suspended, a 1st offense. He was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. On Sunday, January 10th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on Route H and Highway 72. During the course of the traffic stop, a 25-year-old Salem man was arrested for having an active warrant through the Camden County Sheriff’s Office and for the possession of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid of 10 grams or less, a prior drug offense. He was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was issued a summons. He posted bond and was released. if anyone has information regarding any ongoing investigation, please call the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

Today is the last day for landowner enrollment into the Missouri Outdoor Recreational Access Program (MRAP) through the Missouri Department of Conservation. 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 five contiguous acres for wildlife viewing access types or one 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. There are currently more than 50 properties enrolled in the program, totaling over 13,000 acres of lands available for public outdoor recreation. MRAP funding is provided through a U.S. Department of Agriculture federal grant. This funding allows for the additional enrollment of approximately 7,500 new MRAP acres. For more information on how to apply to the MRAP program, visit short.mdc.mo.gov/Zcs.

January is National Radon Action Month and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) encourages Americans around the country to test their homes for radon, the second leading cause of lung cancer. Make 2021 a healthier, safer new year by testing your home. Last year nearly 21,000 people died from lung cancer caused by exposure to radon. EPA’s radon program began more than 30 years ago as the scientific and public health community began to understand the risks associated with indoor radon exposure. Since then, elevated radon levels have been fixed in approximately two million homes in the United States and millions more have been tested. In many states, radon testing has become a standard part of real estate transactions. However, EPA estimates that about seven million high-radon homes remain across the United States. Testing is the only way to know if a home has an elevated level of radon. Affordable do-it-yourself radon test kits are available online and at most home improvement and hardware stores. You can also hire a qualified radon professional to test your home. Taking action to reduce your exposure to radon is a long-term investment in your families’ health and your home. The cost of reducing radon in your home depends on how your home was built and the extent of the radon problem. Most homes, however, can be fixed for about the same cost as other common home repairs. For more information on testing and contact information for radon resources in your state, please see: https://www.epa.gov/radon.

Filings for the April Municipal Election will end on Tuesday, January 19th. People interested in running for the school boards for Oak Hill R-1, Green Forest R-2, Dent-Phelps R-3, Northwood R-4 and Salem R-80 will need to register at the respective school offices during normal business hours. Those who would like to file for the Dent County Fire District Board will need to do so at the fire station during normal business hours. If you want so file for the District 2 seat on the Salem Memorial District Hospital Board, you will need to do so at the hospital administrative office during normal business hours. Those who would like to file for an east or west aldermanic seat for the City of Salem, will need to file at the City Administrative Offices during normal business hours. If you would like to file to serve on the Dent County Health Board, you will need to file for that position at the Dent County Clerk’s office. Please remember to know what the qualifications and requirements are to serve the office you want to run for and there may be a fee associated with filing. The last day to file for these board positions will be Tuesday, January 19th. If you have any questions about a respective board position, call the entity you interested in to get all the details.

The City of Salem Utility committee will hold a meeting tonight at 7:00 at the Salem Community Center@The Armory to discuss funding options for the Waste Water Treatment Plant Phase 2 improvements. The meeting will be open to the public.

The Salem Police department reports that an accident happened Tuesday afternoon January 5th just after 4:00. According to their report, a 2008 Ford Explorer being driven by Dianne Godi of Salem was traveling eastbound on Roosevelt Street. The Ford entered the intersection of Roosevelt and Doss Road striking a 2018 Kia Rio being driven southbound on Doss Road by Katelynn Mathes also of Salem. After the accident, the Kia spun 90 degrees and came to rest facing west on Roosevelt Street. The Ford sustained minor damage. The Kia had moderate damage and was removed from the scene by American Towing. Mathes suffered minor injuries in the accident.

While it’s important to know how to keep yourself and your family safe from physical harm during severe weather events, preparation for these weather emergencies doesn’t end there. The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance wants consumers to know the importance of making sure they’re adequately covered BEFORE a severe weather event occurs. Although you may already have a homeowners or renters insurance policy, make sure you know exactly what it covers. If you don’t own a policy, arrange to purchase one as soon as possible in order to protect yourself and your family from a devastating loss. Waiting until a storm arrives may be too late to protect your home and belongings. It’s important to review your policy each year to make sure your coverage is adequate. It’s easy to forget about important purchases or additions you’ve made to your home and your current level of coverage may not be enough to replace what you own. And, not all policies and levels of coverage are equal – in fact, they vary greatly. While one policy may cover full replacement of a damaged roof, another policy may depreciate the coverage based on the age of the roof. Flood damage is not covered by standard homeowner’s policies. If you live in an area prone to flooding, you will need to purchase a federal flood insurance policy through your agent to cover flood damage. Consumers should do this as early as possible, as there is typically a 30-day waiting period from the date of purchase before a policy goes into effect. Being prepared will make it easier for you to file a claim following a severe weather event. Complete a detailed inventory of your household furnishings and take photos of each room in your home. Make lists of other valuables and equipment that don’t appear in the photos. Keep these materials in a safe place outside your home, such as a safe deposit box. The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance provides more severe weather resources and tips for consumers on their website.

The Salem Police released a number of reports for late December. On Tuesday, December 22nd just before midnight, an officer conducted a traffic stop for an inoperable headlamp at the intersection of Rolla Road and MacArthur Street. After speaking with the driver, a 46-year-old woman from Salem, it was found she had a suspended drivers license. The driver was arrested and issued a summons to appear in court for driving while having her license suspended. Then on Christmas Eve just after 8:00, an officer was dispatched to Dollar General for the report of a female that had entered the store after being trespassed from the store before. As a result, a 38-year-old Salem woman was summoned to appear in court for trespassing. On the morning of Monday of the 28th at around 8:00, an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle after identifying the driver and knowing the subject had an active arrest warrant. The traffic stop was conducted at the intersection of Fourth and Iron Streets. As a result, a 70-year-old Salem man was arrested and incarcerated on his active warrants. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding an ongoing investigation.

Once an entrepreneur has an idea for a business, the next step is to discover if it can be turned into a business. Today from 1:30 until 2:45, entrepreneurs will learn the key elements of a business plan and how to use it as a management tool in a FREE virtual program called “Building a Business Plan.” This program offered by the Missouri Small Business Development Centers. To register, go to https://bit.ly/0114businessplan and you will be sent a Zoom link to participate virtually.

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.