Local News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning for their regular meeting. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles was not in attendance due to illness. First District Commissioner Dennis Purcell acted as presiding commissioner for the meeting in Skiles’ absence. In the road report, Purcell stated that a call was received for a downed tree on Dent County Road 5440. Workers went out and removed the tree as well as some burnt couch springs that were at the scene. Purcell said grading would be done on Dent County Roads 5630, 6370 and 6500 while brush would be cut on county roads 5630 and 5650. Purcell went on to say that with wintry weather in the forecast, the crews will be checking out the snow removal and salt spreading equipment. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson expressed his deep sorrow for the loss of District 2 Road Supervisor Sam Gorman who passed away Christmas day. A friend to everyone, Gorman will be missed by all that knew him. Larson said materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 3300 while only grading would be done on county roads 3310 and 4280. He went on to say brush would be cut on county road 4040. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said she would continue to work on getting the 2021 budget prepared for the commissioners as work on the budget would begin next week. She wanted to remind everyone the Dent County Collector’s office will be open extended hours this week from 8:00 until 5:30 daily through Thursday for those who want to pay their real estate or personal property taxes in person. You can also mail in your taxes, but they MUST be postmarked by December 31st to avoid any penalties. You can also drop off your payment in the drop box at the southwest corner of the courthouse lawn before January 1st. Payment of taxes can also be made online by following the instruction on your tax bill. There is a fee to pay your taxes online by ACH, debit or credit card. It was noted with President Trump’s signing of the latest economic COVID-19 incentive package, the CARES Act deadline has been extended to December 31st, 2021. Three CARES Act applications were mailed to the commissioners for their approval and they were from the Dent County Health Center for $9,579.30, Oak Hill R-1 School for $13,630.06 and Green Forest R-2 School for $1,516.17. The meeting Monday was the last meeting for 1st District Commissioner Dennis Purcell who will be stepping aside after serving 12 years as a commissioner for newly elected 1st District Commissioner Wes Mobray. Mobray will be sworn-in this Thursday afternoon to his new position. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday, January 4th at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Dent County Service Unit of The Salvation Army would like to announce that they have successfully surpassed their $35,000 goal during this year’s Christmas Kettle Campaign. The total raised was $35,410.13 to date. Along with the monetary donations received this year, 208 local children were adopted at the Angel Trees located at Wal-Mart. The local Salvation Army Board would like to thank everyone who made monetary donations and/or who adopted an angel. They also extend their greatest appreciation to the dedicated volunteers that took time out of their busy holiday season to ring the bells at the kettles. The community’s continued generosity will be distributed through- out 2021 to those less fortunate in Dent County.

A one vehicle accident happened Sunday afternoon just before 4:00 in Phelps County on Phelps County Road 3010 just north of Route BB. The report from the highway patrol states that a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt being driven by 17-year old Gabriel Buell of Rolla, traveled off the right side of the road. Buell overcorrected causing the vehicle to overturn in the roadway before sliding off the left side of the road and coming to a stop. Buell, who was wearing a safety restraint, was transported to Phelps Health for treatment of minor injuries. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene by Dishman’s Towing.

Your friends at KSMO Radio and Your World Today wish everyone a joyous and Merry Christmas. To that end, Your World Today will not be published on Thursday and Friday for the Christmas holiday. The next edition will be on Monday, December 28th.

A two vehicle accident happened Monday afternoon around 5:30 in Reynolds County on Highway 72 about ive miles north of Bunker. According to the report released from the highway patrol, a 2014 Ford Explorer being driven by 23-year old Cathy Piatt of Bunker, was traveling east and was attempting to pass another vehicle. At that time, a 2004 GMC Yukon being driven by 47-year old Derrick Conway of Bunker crested a hill and attempted to avoid the Piatt vehicle. Both vehicles then went off the roadway and struck head-on. Conway was transported to Salem Memorial District Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries. Both vehicles sustained extensive damage and were removed from the scene by Whitakers Towing. According to the report, both drivers were wearing safety restraints. The highway patrol was assisted by both the Dent and Reynolds County Sheriff’s Departments.

The Salem Board of Aldermen held a regular meeting Monday evening at the City Hall Council Chambers. After the consent agenda was approved, City Administrator Ray Walden reported the materials for the renovation work at the City Administration Offices would be in this week and look for their work to be completed in January with an open house to follow. He said there was no City of Salem Seniority Banquet this year, but Walden did want to salute the longest tenured employee of the city and that is Mary Happel who celebrated her 42nd year working for the city. Walden said they are still working with BHMG engineers on the pre-paid billing options to bring back before the board, and the city offices would be closed this Thursday and Friday for Christmas, and next Friday for New Years. Public Works Director Mark Nash stated the next utility billing is right on time as determined by the utility committee as city workers are getting the manual read counts in. He said there has been some issue in getting the new meter numbers into the system, but they have been in communication with Incode where a bulk update of 225 meters will be done en masse to get them online. Nash said that the billing is working out better now that the city is getting true reads. Nash said the ad will be in the Salem News for the specs on the grinding pump station and the bids will be due in on January 5th. The board approved the sale of two Dodge Charges Pursuit vehicles on Purple Wave as surplus in Resolution 22-2020. One of the vehicles was the old K-9 vehicle while the other as the regular pursuit vehicle. The board also approved the addition of Jon Mahalka to the airport board before going into closed session.

Register for Salem Public Library’s Hibernation Reading Challenge and settle in for winter fun! All ages are encouraged to participate! This challenge begins on December 28, 2020 and ends on February 6, 2021. Registration is quick and easy. Simply click on the Beanstack link located on the library’s home page, salempubliclibrary.net. Readers will earn tickets for prize drawings as they log reading minutes in the Beanstack software. Extra tickets may be earned by completing creative boredom-busting activities! Prize baskets will include items for cozy at-home winter entertainment like a snuggly fleece throw, tasty cocoa, along with terrific books and movies. This program is free!”

A three vehicle accident happened Tuesday afternoon just after 2:30 in Phelps County on Highway 63 about five miles south of Rolla. The report from the highway patrol states that a 2007 Chrysler Town and County being driven by 63-year old Sandra Seeger of Foristell, Missouri was entering the highway from Phelps County Road 7160 and pulled into the path of a 1995 Chevrolet Silverado being driven east by 67- year old Clifford King of Rolla. After the Chevrolet struck the Chrysler, it then rolled backward striking a 2017 Ford Escape being driven by 70-year old Carolyn Crow of Licking. Both Seeger and King were transported to Phelps Health in Rolla for treatment of minor injuries. According to the report, all drivers involved were wearing safety restraints. The Chrysler and Chevrolet both sustained extensive damage. The Chrysler was towed from the scene by C & C Towing and the Chevrolet was removed by Taylor’s Towing of Rolla. The Ford had minor damage and was able to be driven from the scene.

Congratulations goes out to the three winners of this year’s KSMO Big Christmas Giveaway drawn this past weekend. This year’s winners were Sierra Miller from Echo Bluff State Park, Bonnie Quick from Southtown Furniture and Tiffany Smith from Fairground Auto Plaza. KSMO Radio, Echo Bluff State Park, Southtown Furniture and Fairground Auto Plaza want to thank everyone that participated in the contest and wish everyone a very, Merry Christmas!

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse for their regular meeting. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams presented the CART taxes received this month and they came to $59,041.53 and that is down from December of 2019 by $676.46. Year-to-date, the CART funds received are down $32,164.32 in 2020 and that comes to a reduction of 4.6%. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell stated grading would be done on Dent County Roads 4210, 5680, 6610 and 6620 while brush would be cut on county roads 4160 and 5650. Purcell said he attended the South Central Missouri Community Action Agency meeting last Tuesday and they still have money available for weatherization, and home repair, and they still have emergency assistance available for those who may need help with their utility bills as well as rent or mortgage. There are income guidelines to qualify for this assistance. For more information, contact Sarah at 729-3500. Purcell also said that on Thursday, he virtually attended the Corridor Advisory Team meeting on the replacement or rehabilitation of two bridges on Highway 19 south. For those interested, public comments can be made by going to modot.org/roundspringbridges. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported materials would be added and grading done on county roads 2030, 4050 and 4055, while only grading would be done on Dent County Road 4480. He added brush would be cut on county road 4030. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said the assessor’s office has been quarantined and would be closed until December 29th. If you have a question, call 729-6060 or e-mail dentcounty@embarqmail.com. He said he attended a CCAM meeting with the executive officers Tuesday and they worked on the virtual commissioners February training and also discussed possibly having a half day special training for newly elected commissioners. Skiles also said they discussed possible legislative issues including the publishing of county condensed financial statements. He also said they support having the prosecuting attorney’s salary paid by the state. He went on to say the courthouse would be closed Thursday and Friday for Christmas. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said she balanced with the treasurer on all accounts for the month of November, and she is still working on the 2021 county budget. At 10:00, the commission opened bids for the county’s auto, liability as well as errors and omissions insurance. They received three bids and the commission awarded the winning bid to the Hollida Insurance Agency, LLC from Poplar Bluff for $115,581 for the 2021 year. At the last meeting, Dent County Collector Shannon VanKirk brought in her turnover report of $1,314,323.79 for the month of November. The Commissioners also approved CARES Act funding for All Accounted For of $15,888.18, Shelton Fabrication at $50,000, KSMO Enterprises of $2,968.17, Oak Grove Baptist Church of $2,681.98, the Dent County Health Center at $17,985.49, Plank Investments of $50,000, Curley and Co. Salon at $10,670, Cornerstone, Inc. of $4,210.98, Williams American Construction, Inc. of $50,000, SACBA at $13,052.55, Wisdom Drug, LLC for $50,000, the Montauk Rural Fire District of $1,590.00 and the Vogue family Hair Care at $4,024.52. The next meeting will be Monday, December 28th at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public. The next meeting will be Monday, December 28th at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.