Local News

The Dent County Commissioners held their tax rate hearing Monday morning at 10:00 at the courthouse. The General Revenue Fund rate that was at $.0.00 due to the high volume of sales tax money collected in 2018, will be reinstated this year as the sales tax dollars have receded and will be set at a state rate set by their calculations at $.0295. All three commissioners agreed on the rate. The Senate Bill 40 Fund has a current rate of $.1341 and that is again the maximum allowed this year. The SB 40 board asked to take the maximum allowed this year at $.1341 and the Commissioners voted 3-0 to accept their request. The Road and Bridge Fund current tax rate is $.2534. Following the state’s calculations, the maximum allowable rate allowed by the State Auditor is still $.2534. The Commission approved unanimously to accept that rate. The Senior Citizen Service Fund rate for 2018 was $.0477 and the maximum allowable tax rate is again at $.0477 after the state’s calculations. Their board requested to take the maximum allowable rate this year of $.0477. The request was approved by the commissioners by a 3-0. All the rates presented are per $100 assessed valuation. The hearing was adjourned.

The Salem Police Department has released a number of reports for the end of July. In the early morning of the 29th at about 12:03, an officer was dispatched to the area of North Jackson and Acuff in reference to a disturbance. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of an intoxicated 38-year-old male of Salem for failing to obey a lawful order of a police officer. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. On the afternoon of Wednesday, July 31st close to 4:00, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 1200 block of South Louise in reference to trespassing. The investigation revealed that two females of Salem, a 20-year-old and a 24-year-old, entered onto property that gave notice of no trespassing. The 20-year-old suspect was later located, issued a summons to appear in court and released. The 24-year-old suspect has not yet been located. The report is still under investigation. Minutes later at about 4:10, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 1000 block of West Ellis in reference to a burglary not in progress. The investigation of the report revealed that a person or persons unknown had forcibly entered the residence and took items valued at about $800.00. The report is under investigation. At about 10:13 that same night, an officer was dispatched to a traffic accident at Henderson and Rolla Road. The investigation of the accident led to the arrest of a 23-year-old male of Salem for driving while being intoxicated and for careless and imprudent driving. The suspect was issued summonses to appear in court and released. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information about an ongoing investigation.

The Dent County Sheriffs Department has released a number of reports. Saturday, July 27th, deputies conducted a traffic stop in the Casey’s General Store parking lot. During the course of the traffic stop, a 32-year-old Salem man was arrested for felony driving while revoked/suspended. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. Then on Tuesday, July 30th, deputies received information from Phelps County Regional Medical Center in reference to a domestic violence incident that occurred in Dent County. After further investigation, deputies traveled to County Road 2120 and arrested a 55-year-old Salem man for domestic assault in the 3rd degree. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and was incarcerated. Later that same day, deputies traveled to Dent County Road 5340 in reference to a man causing property damage and trespassing. After investigating the incident deputies traveled to East Highway 32 and arrested a 45-year-old man from Boss for trespassing in the 1st degree and property damage in the 2nd degree. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. Still on that same day, deputies conducted a traffic stop on East Highway 32 and Carty Street. During the course of the traffic stop, a 17-year-old Salem man was arrested for possession of marijuana and /or synthetic cannabinoid of 10 grams or less. Also arrested was a 17-year-old Salem man for possession of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid of 10 grams or less, and the unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. Both men were transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, fingerprinted, issued summons and released. Please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 573-729-3241 with any information regarding an ongoing investigation.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will hold their regular meeting Thursday, August 15th, at 6:00. Prior to the regular meeting the Board will conduct a tax rate hearing at 5:50. After approval of the agenda the board will approve previous minutes, approve bills, food service, substitute list, summer school attendance report, and program evaluations for Finance and Board Policies. Superintendent John McCulloch will report on Professional Development. In new business the Board will approve the 2018-2019 Annual Secretary of Board Report, 2019 tax rate, Dent County Developmental Preschool Lease, and consider Transportation Agreement with First Student. The board will then move into executive session to discuss personnel. The regular meeting of the board of education is open to the public.

You only have until Friday to visit the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource center to enjoy and learn from The River Exhibit. It is a cultural and natural history display of the Current River which includes artifacts, photos, newspaper accounts of the origin and controversy of enabling legislation creating the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, plus reflections on the life and communities that have disappeared. The exhibit provides a great opportunity for tourists, visitors and local citizens to stop by and take a trip of memories down the Current River. For more information, contact Mary Beth Cook at 573-453-6061 or the ONCRC at 573-729-0029.

A one day bench trial held on Monday, July 29th in front of Judge Randall Head resulted in him finding Manual Lee of Salem not guilty on the charge of making a terrorist threat in the 1st degree. Head also in his directive discharged Lee from any further charges from the incident. Dent County Prosecuting Attorney charged Lee from an incident that occurred on March 9th, 2018, when Lee posted a Snapchat image of himself that had a caption that included “There’s a storm coming and it’s going to hit Salem R80 hard.” Lee was arrested and interviewed by the Salem Police Department and told them the post was not meant to be terroristic in nature and he had no intention of conducting a school shooting. He said a student had snitched on him chewing tobacco at school and another incident involved his girlfriend. A search warrant was executed on the Lee’s home and knives were found in his bedroom while firearms were found in the bedroom of his parents. In a statement released from the Dent County Prosecutor’s office, Curley indicated if confronted with a similar situation in the future, he would respond in the same fashion as he went on to say that children attending school should never be in fear for their safety. Curley also wanted to thank the school children and parents that reported this incident to the school and law enforcement. He reminds anyone that in light of the latest rounds of shootings that if you are aware of any person making statements about harming the school, a business or any other organization, or any individual for that matter, to please report the threat immediately to law enforcement.

A one vehicle accident happened early Thursday morning at 5:15 in Reynolds County on Route KK, about six miles north of Bunker. According to the highway patrol report, Brandon Santhuff of Centerville, was driving a 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix southbound when he traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree. Santhuff suffered serious injuries and was transported by the Iron County Ambulance to the Iron County Hospital before being transferred to Barnes Jewish in St. Louis by ground ambulance. According to the report, Santhuff was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Pontiac was totaled and removed from the scene by Aissie Tow and Auto of Ellington.

A one vehicle accident happened around 11:40 Saturday morning in Iron County that left two children from Arcadia with injuries. According to the report from the highway patrol, a 2015 Can Am ATV driven by Christae Morris of Arcadia, was traveling southbound on Iron County Road 205, about five miles south of Arcadia, when the vehicle overturned and ejected the passengers. Receiving minor injuries was eight-year old Troy Dean while nine-year old Aiden Morris suffered serious injuries. Dean was transported by ambulance to Iron County Medical Center while Morris was flown by Air Evac to Children’s Hospital in St. Louis. According to the report, no one was wearing any type of safety device. The ATV sustained minor damage and was driven from the scene.

An accident happened in Phelps County at 10:45 Saturday night on Route Y about two miles east of Rolla that left a Rolla man with moderate injuries. According to the highway patrol report, a 1997 Chevy Blazer driven eastbound by 26-year old Trevor Smith of Rolla, went off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree. Smith was taken by the Phelps Health Ambulance to Phelas Health with moderate injuries. Smith was wearing a seat restraint at ttime of the accident. The Blazer was totaled and removed from the scene by Ron Dishman’s Towing of Rolla.

Theresa Davidson, the Acting District Ranger of the Mark Twain National Forest, Salem Ranger District, will be the speaker at the Dent County Historic Society Speaker Series at 6:00 Tuesday evening at the Salem Pizza Inn meeting room. Theresa has invited Clint Davis, the new District Ranger; Lester Lakey, the District Archaeologist; and Cory Roegner the Recreation Program Manager in Rolla or Chris Woods, District Recreation Manager. Davidson believes there are some wonderful opportunities to partner with projects proposed by the Dent County Historical Society. One of those is led by Tom Botkins, who has been working on the documentation for exhibits where Howes Mill was located in the Mark Twain National Forest; while another is led by Deloris Gray Wood and the Missouri Chapter Trail of Tears Association, to get exhibits at the Marcoot Towers across Highway 72 from where the marker is located on Reynolds County Road 903. For more information, call Deloris at 573-729-2545 or Theresa at 573-729-6656. Theresa is the Forest Service Wildlife and Fisheries Biologist with the Mark Twain National Forest and can be reached at 573-341-7499, when her duties return her to Rolla. Theresa can also be contacted online at theresa.davidson@usda.gov.

Contractors working for the Missouri Department of Transportation will begin a project to repair the Interstate 44 and Route V interchange in Rolla on Friday, August 16th. Crews will replace the current asphalt on the entrance and exit ramps with full-depth concrete pavement, which will handle the high volume of tractor trailers utilizing the ramps at the interchange. The work will require a full shutdown of the ramps and overpass for ten days. I-44 traffic will not be impacted by the work. Motorists utilizing Route V are advised to seek an alternate route around the work area. For more information about this project or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org/central.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning for their regular meeting at the Dent County Courthouse. The commission recognized Dwayne McClellan of the Salem News for his long time reporting of the commission meetings and that he will truly be missed. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell said his district received over two inches of rain Wednesday and crews would be out checking roads for washouts and clearing areas of any downed trees and limbs. He mentioned materials would be added to Dent County Road 2430 and a crew would be doing chip and seal patching on county roads 5013, 5045 and 5083. Purcell also reported that men would be performing maintenance on truck 121 and time permitting, would be doing some edgework repair on Dent County Road 5015 with the ultimate paving material. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson stated he would have a man grading on Dent County Road 4060 and cutting brush on county road 5240. He said a man would be hauling brown rock if it wasn’t too wet, and crew members would be working on loader #3. Commissioner Skiles attended the TAC meeting Thursday afternoon in St. James. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said she balanced with the treasurer on all accounts from the month of July, and she also balanced with the assessor and collector on abatements, collections and add-ons for the month of July. She stated the tax rate hearings for the General Revenues Fund, the Road and Bridge Fund, the SB 40 Board Fund and Senior Citizen Fund would be held at 10:00 Monday morning at the courthouse. The hearing is open to the public. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public

Get ready for the new school year with the Annual Back to School Fair Saturday, August 10th, at the Community Center at The Armory. The event will be held from 10:00 until 2:00 for preschoolers through the 12th grade. The Back to School Fair is a partnership of community organizations, businesses and resources. Missouri Child Identification Program (MoCHIP) representatives will be on hand providing free child ID kits. Children will also receive haircuts, socks, shoes and underwear. Children must be pre-registered with the South Central Community Action Agency before the event and parents can register their child or children by contacting Sarah Richmond-Arnett at the office at 1405 S. Wines Street now through August 10th. If your business or community group would be interested in participating in the fair you should contact the Sarah at 573-739-3500, extension 10, or by email at sgivens@scmcaa.org.

The Salem Police Department has released the following reports. On Wednesday morning, July 24th at about 10:05, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 500 block of South Jackson in reference to a theft. The investigation of the report revealed that someone took a 22-caliber pistol valued at $500.00. The report is under investigation. On Thursday, July 25th at about 7:59 in the morning, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 200 block of East Second in reference to property damage. An investigation revealed that a person or persons unknown broke the glass valued at $768.00 out of the door of a residence. The report is under investigation. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information about an ongoing investigation.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control arrested 33-year old James C. Hughes of St. Robert, on Wednesday for promoting and possession of child pornography. The arrest was the result of an investigation conducted by members of the Division of Drug and Crime Control’s Digital Forensics Investigative Unit. The St. Robert Police Department and the South Central Missouri Computer Crimes Task Force assisted in the investigation. On August 7th, investigators executed a search warrant at Hughes’ residence located on Top Drive in St. Robert. As a result of their search, investigators seized child pornography and computer equipment. Hughes was arrested and transported to the Pulaski County Jail. On Thursday, the Pulaski County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office formally charged Hughes with one count of promoting child pornography and four counts of possession of child pornography. Hughes’ bond was set at $500,000. Evidence in support of these charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors meeting took place at 6:00 Tuesday evening, August 6th. After the call to order, a motion was made and carried to approve the consent agenda and minutes from the previous meeting as presented. Bills were reviewed and approved with an ending balance of $181,432.81 as of the end of July. The budget was reviewed and approved. The calendar review made note that on August 8th the Fire Trucks would be at Salem High School for the Band and on August 15th, state training for the District and surrounding departments would take place. In the monthly reimbursement report, the department received a total of 16 calls for the month of July, bringing the total calls year to date to 166 with an average cost per call of $115.39. Chief Brad Nash reported that two of the thermal cameras were failing and that the cost to repair them was $1,400.00. Due to the age of the cameras, he is looking at different options. The Board discussed the tax rate for the fire district and voted to leave the rate at 0.2338 per $100 assessed valuation. The date for the next meeting was set for September 3rd at 6:00 PM at the fire station. The meeting was adjourned at 6:30 pm.

The Dent County Sheriffs Department has released several reports for July 20th through the 23rd. On Saturday, July 20th, deputies received a report of a fight occurring at the Mobil Gas Station. Deputies traveled to the area and during the course of the investigation, a 24-year-old Salem man was arrested for an active warrant through Gasconade County. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he later posted bond and was released. On Tuesday the 23rd, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Highway 19 South and Dent County Road 5080. During the course of the traffic stop, a 24-year-old Salem woman was arrested for an active warrant through Phelps County. The female was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where she was later transported to the Phelps County Jail. Later that day, deputies traveled to the Missouri Private Probation Services in an attempt to serve an arrest warrant. During the course of the incident, a 38-year-old Lenox man was arrested for an active warrant through Dent County. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he later posted bond. Later that day, deputies conducted a traffic stop at the 500 block of South Main Street. During the course of the traffic stop, a 20-year-old Salem woman was arrested for possession of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid of 10 grams or less as well as for the unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. The female was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, fingerprinted, issued summons and released. If anyone has any information regarding an ongoing investigation, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

The Salem Police Department has released a number of reports for Sunday, July 28th. At approximately 3:15 in the afternoon, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 1400 block of South Water in reference to an assault. The investigation of the report revealed a 32-year-old male of Salem had assaulted a 23-year-old female of Salem. Further investigation led to the arrest of the suspect who was incarcerated pending the application for a warrant. Just minutes later at 3:22, an officer was dispatched to a storage unit at Highway 32 and Sligo in reference to a theft. That investigation showed that a person or persons unknown broke into a unit and took a 22-caliber rifle, a safe and jewelry valued at$8,000.00. The report is under investigation. At about 9:10 that night, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 900 block of North Pershing in reference to a fight in progress. The investigation of the report revealed that a 33-year-old male of Salem had assaulted a 25-year-old male of Salem. During the assault, a 25-year-old male of Jadwin fired a 9mm pistol in the air. A further investigation led to the arrest of the 33-year-old Salem man for assault and the Jadwin male suspect for unlawful use of a firearm. The two suspects were issued summonses to appear in court and released. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information about an ongoing investigation.

Would you recognize signs of youth alcohol and drug use in your home? Learn how to spot warning signs and get tips for talking with kids about the danger of alcohol and drug use. You’ll be able to explore an interactive display of a teenager’s bedroom containing over 70 items that could signal that a young person is involved in risky activities. Stop by the “Hidden In Plain View” today at the Salem High School at 1400 Tiger Pride Drive. The exhibit will be open from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm and the presentations will be at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. This event is for adults only.

The Dent County Commission met for their regular Monday morning in the Dent County Courthouse. Sally Burbridge, City of Salem Economic Development Director was in to give a monthly update. Jamie Homeyer came in to discuss being considered for the position of the County Assessor when the Assessor Tina Whitaker retires at the end of the year. In the road report District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell reported grading will be done on Dent County Roads 6370, 6190, and 4220, while a man was going to Springfield after a load of oil for chip and seal repair. Purcell noted that maintenance was being done on the brush cutter. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2315, 2313, 5305, 4405, 5320, and 4410. He also said that materials would be added to county roads 4430, 2313, 2315, 4380, and brush would be cut on county roads 2070, 2075, and 2315. County Clerk Angie Curley reported that payroll was approved. Bids were opened for the Courthouse propane. After discussion the Commissioners approved the current supplier, Ferrellgas, at $1.185 per gallon. Motion passed 3-0. The next meeting of the Commission will be Thursday morning in the Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Salem Police Department has released a number of reports for Sunday, July 28th. At approximately 3:15 in the afternoon, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 1400 block of South Water in reference to an assault. The investigation of the report revealed a 32-year-old male of Salem had assaulted a 23-year-old female of Salem. Further investigation led to the arrest of the suspect who was incarcerated pending the application for a warrant. Just minutes later at 3:22, an officer was dispatched to a storage unit at Highway 32 and Sligo in reference to a theft. That investigation showed that a person or persons unknown broke into a unit and took a 22-caliber rifle, a safe and jewelry valued at$8,000.00. The report is under investigation. At about 9:10 that night, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 900 block of North Pershing in reference to a fight in progress. The investigation of the report revealed that a 33-year-old male of Salem had assaulted a 25-year-old male of Salem. During the assault, a 25-year-old male of Jadwin fired a 9mm pistol in the air. A further investigation led to the arrest of the 33-year-old Salem man for assault and the Jadwin male suspect for unlawful use of a firearm. The two suspects were issued summonses to appear in court and released. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information about an ongoing investigation.

A two vehicle accident happened Friday morning at 10:30 on Highway H about a mile North of Leasburg resulting in three minor injuries. According to the highway patrol report, a 2016 Chrysler 200, driven by 68 year-old Paul Leasor of Aurora, failed to yield, causing the vehicle to strike a 2006 Ford Focus driven by 24 year-old Shannon Comia of Bourbon. Paul Leasor and a passenger, 71 year-old Judy Leasor, as well as Comia reported minor injuries but all three declined treatment at the scene. The Chrysler sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by Chucks Towing. The Focus was totaled in the accident and removed by Brads Towing. According to the report, all involved in the accident were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident.

Get ready for the new school year with the Annual Back to School Fair Saturday, August 10th, at the Community Center at The Armory. The event will be held from 10:00 until 2:00 for preschoolers through the 12th grade. The Back to School Fair is a partnership of community organizations, businesses and resources. Missouri Child Identification Program (MoCHIP) representatives will be on hand providing free child ID kits. MoCHIP is a comprehensive program designed to give families a measure of protection should a child become missing or abducted. The Masonic Children’s Foundation retains no information concerning the children and only keeps a signed permission form. Children will also receive haircuts, socks, shoes and underwear. Children must be pre-registered with the South Central Community Action Agency before the event and parents can register their child or children by contacting Sarah Richmond-Arnett at the office at 1405 S. Wines Street now through August 10th. If your business or community group would be interested in participating in the fair you should contact the Sarah at 573-739-3500, extension 10, or by email at sgivens@scmcaa.org.

Registration continues this week at the Salem schools. At the Salem Upper Elementary new and current students can register from 9:00 to 3:30 through Wednesday, August 7th. For more information, call 729-4812. At the Salem Middle School students can register today, Wednesday and Thursday, August 6th through 8th. On Friday, August 9th, anyone who missed registration may register on that day. All 6th, 7th, 8th grade students will enroll in the Cafeteria of the Middle School building and a parent or guardian must attend and complete the necessary required enrollment forms and paperwork. For more information, call 729-4261. At the Salem High School Juniors will register today from 1:00 to 5:00 pm.; sophomores will register from 1:00 to 5:00 pm tomorrow and freshman will register Thursday from 1:00 to 5:00 pm. On Friday, August 9th, anyone who missed registration can register from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. For more information about registration, call the Salem Senior High School at 729-6641. Don’t forget your child’s vaccinations must be up to date before they can register. Contact the Dent County Health Center if you have any questions at 729-3106.

The Salem Board of Aldermen will meet tonight at the City Hall Council Chambers for their regular meeting at 7:00. In the hearing of persons First Baptist Church is requesting to have a Fireworks Show on Saturday, October 5th, at 7:30 p.m. for their Fall Fest Spectacular. Included will be a request for partial closure of West First Street and North Grand. Ms. Arlene Martin wants to discuss what can be done about water standing in her yard at 604 South Sligo. Mayor Nash will call for a Public Hearing in order to discuss the setting of the property tax rate for 2019. No votes are to be taken. The board will hear bids for a 2019 Dodge Charger for the police department. Bids will be reviewed for the Tap Grant Project, which is the sidewalk project from the High School to inside the City Park. After the consent agenda, the board will hear City Administrator Ray Walden’s report which will include setting a date for a nuisance workshop that will be open to the public. In the Introduction and Reading of Bills and Resolutions, the board will discuss Bill #3425 that creates an ordinance to levy for the year 2019 a tax of .6522 cents per $100 assessed valuation. Discussion will also be held on Bill #3426 that creates an ordinance to authorize the Mayor to execute a State Block Grant agreement between the City of Salem and the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission. In new and miscellaneous business Chief Steelman is requesting permission to seek a Local Law Enforcement Block Grant (LLEBG) for basic law enforcement safety equipment for officers in the Amount of $9,999.00. The board will also consider approval of the Park Street Trailer Park License Application The board will then go into closed session to discuss contracts and personnel. The meeting of the city of Salem Board of Aldermen is open to the public.

Registration will be held starting today at the Salem schools. At the Salem Upper Elementary, new and current students can register from 9:00 to 3:30 today through Wednesday, August 7th. For more information, call 729-4812. At the Salem Middle School, students who are new to the area and have not been registered in any Salem school district in grades 6 through 8 may register on Monday, August 5th. All students can register on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, August 6th through the 8th, and on Friday, August 9th. All 6th, 7th and 8th grade students will enroll in the Cafeteria of the Middle School building and a parent or guardian must attend and complete the necessary required enrollment forms and paperwork. For more information, call 729-4261. At the Salem Senior High, seniors will register on Monday, August 5th from 1:00 – 5:00 PM; juniors will register Tuesday, August 6th from 1:00 – 5:00 PM; sophomores will register from 1:00 – 5:00 PM Wednesday, August 7th and freshman will register Thursday, August 8th from 1:00 – 5:00 PM. On Friday, August 9th, anyone who missed registration can register from 8:00 AM until 2:00 PM. For more information about registration, call the Salem Senior High School at 729-6641. Don’t forget your vaccinations must be up to date before you can register your child. Contact the Dent County Health Center if you have questions about which vaccinations are required for each grade level at 729-3106.

The Salem Police Department has released a number of reports in July. On Thursday morning, July 25th at about 11:35, an officer located a 32-year-old female of Rolla near Grand and Butler who had three active arrest warrants from Dent County. The suspect was taken into custody on the warrants and found to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 32-year-old male of Springfield for stealing merchandise valued at $43.85. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. That same evening at about 11:32, an officer was dispatched to Rolla Road and Macarthur in reference to a suspicious person. That investigation lead to the arrest of a 40 year-old male of Salem on an active arrest warrant from Camden County. The suspect was incarcerated pending extradition. On Saturday evening July 27th, at approximately 6:03, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to trespassing. A 30-year-old male of Salem was on Wal-Mart property after having been issued a no trespass notice. The suspect was taken into custody for trespassing, issued a summons to appear in court and released. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information about an ongoing investigation.

A Salem man has won a $1 Million Scratchers Prize. Jerry Armer got a huge surprise and a new reason to celebrate after he stopped to buy a lottery ticket on his 10th wedding anniversary. The Salem man uncovered a $1 million top prize on a Missouri Lottery“50X The Cash” Scratchers game. Armer said, “I didn’t believe it at first. I had to take it back into the store and scan it there.” “And then he called me,” his wife added. “I thought he was just calling me to wish me a happy anniversary! I didn’t believe him either. He had to send me a picture of it. When I got off the phone, I just screamed to my son that we’d won!” Armer Said, “I still can’t believe it. This was my first big win.” Armer purchased the $10 Scratchers ticket at Phil-Mart in Salem.

The Dent County Commission met for their regular meeting Thursday morning in the Dent County Courthouse. In the road report District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell said that he was a crewman short and that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 5170, 5180, 5650 and 4235 if time permitted. He went on to report that materials would be added to county roads 5680 and 5650, plus brush would be cut on county roads 6180 and 4220. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 5280, 5300, 5320 and 4405 if there was adequate time. He said that brush would be cut on county road 2080 and two men were working on Loader #3. Larson also reported that two men were patching chip and seal at various locations in preparation for the application of the overlay plus a man was screening brown rock at the Road and Bridge Department. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said that on Tuesday he attended the IDA meeting where information was presented about a possible program to improve sub-standard housing in Salem. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley noted that bills were being approved by the Commissioners for payment. Commissioner Purcell excused himself from the meeting to go to St. James where he was to meet with Kelly Sink-Blair of MRPC and Kelly Witsett with the Forest Service concerning an application for funds through the Federal Lands Access Program (FLAP) for replacement of the Cooley Bridge. Dwight Ramsburg and Nick Smith were in at 11:00 with a Jail Project update. At Monday’s meeting County Collector Shannon Vankirk was in to discuss a letter from the Dent County Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Curley regarding the postponement of property taxes for 2019 for the Timber Industries, Inc. property pending a review of the hazardous material inquiry. Tina Whitaker, Dent County Assessor was in and gave her notice that she will retire December 31st, 2019. The next regular meeting of the Commission will be Monday morning in the Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

A teenager from St. Peters was injured on at about 2:20 in the Meramec River about two and a half miles upstream from the Blue Springs Ranch in Crawford County on Saturday afternoon July 27th. According to the highway patrol report, 13-year old Carrie Stalf of St. Peters was swimming in the river and surfaced in front of a 2008 Blazer boat being operated by Shawn Petty of Salem that was headed up river. Stalf suffered minor injuries and was taken by a personal vehicle to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan for treatment. The swimmer was not wearing a flotation device.

The Salem Police Department has released the following reports. On Sunday morning, July 21st at about 10:24, an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department in reference to a theft from a vehicle. The investigation of the report revealed that a person or persons unknown entered a red 2006 Chevrolet truck parked near the 400 block of North Henderson and took $80.00 in cash. The report is under investigation. That night at approximately 7:30, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The investigation of the report revealed a 29-year-old female of Salem had taken several items valued at $52.48 without paying for them. The report is under investigation. Later that same evening at 11:55,
an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 800 block of North Jackson in reference to a fight in progress. That investigation led to the arrest of a 31-year-old male of Salem on an active arrest warrant from the City of Salem and a 25-year-old male of Salem for the possession of drug paraphernalia and on an active arrest warrant from Cuba, Missouri. The two suspects were incarcerated on the warrants and the 25-year-old suspect was issued a summons to appear in court for possession of drug paraphernalia. On Monday morning, July 22nd at 10:46, an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department in reference to a theft. The investigation of the report revealed that a person or psersons unknown took a weed trimmer valued at $129.99 from the porch of a residence in the 600 block of East Third. The report is under investigation. Later Monday afternoon at 1:38, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 33-year-old female of Salem for stealing merchandise valued at $12.88. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information about an ongoing investigation.

The State of Missouri will hold its annual Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday today through this Sunday night at midnight. During this time period, certain back-to-school items will be exempt from the 4.225 percent state sales tax. These items qualify for the sales tax-free weekend: clothing with a taxable value of $100 or less, school supplies that do not exceed $50 per purchase, computer software with a taxable value of $350 or less, personal computers that do not exceed $1,500, computer peripheral devices that do not exceed $1,500 and graphing calculators that do not to exceed $150. According to the Missouri Department of Revenue, Salem and Rolla did not opt of the sales tax holiday, nor did Dent County. Phelps County did opt out and their county sales tax will be collected. The tax-free weekend was first offered in 2004 to make shopping for school supplies a little easier on the budget.

Victor Baptist Church in Anutt will be having a FREE Back to School Giveaway today from 3:00 to 7:00 and tomorrow from 8:30 AM until 12:30 PM. You can pickup school supplies, clothing for all seasons, household items, small appliances, books, games, toys and more. There are no qualifiers, everyone is welcome and everything is FREE!

The Salem Memorial District Hospital Foundation’s “Wings and Strings” Music Festival will be held at the Commons Saturday, August 3rd with the gates opening at 11:00. The event is sponsored by the SMDH Foundation and JB Malone’s Bar and Grill. All proceeds go to the SMDH Foundation which provides needed capital equipment for the Hospital. The wing-off competition will be starting at 12:00 noon with judging at 1:00 with the winners being announced at 2:00. Those interested in the wing-off can find sign up forms and rules at www.smdh.net. The 1st place winner gets $300 and 2nd place winner will take home $200, while the People’s Choice Award will receive $100. There will be a Cornhole Tournament that begins at 1:00 and teams can sign up as late as 12:30 Saturday afternoon. The band performances start at about 2:00 with Hunter Hathcoat will perform around 2:00, followed by Colin Nash at about 4:00. The evening performances will include Jake Stringer near 6:00, while Porter Union will wrap up the night starting at about 8:00. In addition there will be lots of concessions including snow cones and ice cream, plus food trucks. Admission is $15 for adults, children 7-12 will be $8.00 and kids 6 and under are free. There will bounce houses, face painting and other activities for the kids. For more information about Wings and Strings contact Jason Edwards at 573-729-5917 extension 2110 or you can e-mail him at jedwards@smdh.net.

Get ready for the new school year with the Annual Back to School Fair Saturday, August 10th, at the Community Center at The Armory. The event will be held from 10:00 until 2:00 for preschoolers through the 12th grade. The Back to School Fair is a partnership of community organizations, businesses and resources. Missouri Child Identification Program (MoCHIP) representatives will be on hand providing free child ID kits. Children will also receive haircuts, socks, shoes and underwear. Children must be pre-registered with the South Central Community Action Agency before the event and parents can register their child or children by contacting Sarah Richmond-Arnett at the office at 1405 S. Wines Street now through August 10th. If your business or community group would be interested in participating in the fair you should contact the Sarah at 573-739-3500, extension 10, or by email at sgivens@scmcaa.org.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released a report from Friday, July 19th. Dent County Deputies were on routine patrol on Dent County Road 5010 when they attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle. However, the vehicle began to travel at a high rate of speed towards Salem. Deputies caught up to the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop at the Casey’s General Store on East Highway 32. During the course of the traffic stop, it was discovered that a female had fled from the vehicle before deputies caught up to it. Deputies then traveled to the intersection of Doss Road and East Roosevelt Street. During the course of the investigation, a 26-year-old Salem woman was located and arrested for an active arrest warrant through Crawford County. The female was later transported to the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office. Also arrested during the incident was a 34-year-old Salem man for driving while having a revoked or suspended license, a second or subsequent offense. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he was fingerprinted, issued summons and released. If anyone has any information regarding an ongoing investigation, contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

The Salem Police Department has released the following reports. On Saturday morning, July 20th, at approximately 2:54 an officer located a 27-year-old female of Salem in the 500 block of East Dent who had active arrest warrants from O’Fallon and St. Charles County. The suspect was taken into custody on the warrants and incarcerated pending extradition. That night at about 8:27, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The investigation of the report revealed a 30- year-old female of Rolla stole merchandise valued at $79.79 and fled the store. The report is under investigation. Minutes later at approximately 9:15, an officer was dispatched to the Casey’s General Store on Highway 19 in reference to someone trying to start a fight with an employee. That investigation led to the arrest of a 39-year-old female of Salem for disorderly conduct. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. Still later that night at approximately 11:10, an officer transported a 23-year-old female of Licking from Texas County to Dent County due to an active arrest warrant from the City of Salem. The suspect was incarcerated pending a court appearance. If anyone has any information regarding an ongoing investigation, contact the Salem Police Department at 729-4242.

The Dent County Fire Protection District will hold a Tax levy hearing at the regular scheduled meeting August 6th starting at 6:00 at the Dent County District Fire Station located at #2 South Main. This hearing will be open to the public. The current tax rate of the fire district is .2338% per $100 assessed valuation.

Dent County Coroner Gina White released a report from an incident that occurred on Saturday, July 27th at the Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health Center in Salem at 203 North Grand. Her office received a report of a death at the facility of 59-year old Ramon Kerr from the Springfield, Missouri area who had been a patient at the facility since July 13th. He was pronounced dead at the treatment center by White at 4:35 as he was discovered during the staff’s hourly bed checks. An autopsy was scheduled for Monday, July 29th at the Boone County Medical Examiner’s office and will be completed by Dr. Eddie Adelstein. A complete report is expected in about six weeks. The case is being investigated by the Dent County Coroner’s Office and the Salem Police Department.

An accident occurred Monday morning at 8:51 in Laclede County on Interstate 44 at the 139.6 mile marker about nine miles east of Lebanon that left a Salem man with injuries. The accident occurred when 21 year-old Brandon Mendenhall of Salem lost control of a westbound 2008 Chevrolet Impala, which then traveled off the left side of Interstate 44, struck the metal guardrail and then the median cable barrier. According to the highway patrol report, the accident left 29-year old Patrick Mendenhall of Salem with moderate injuries and he was transported by Trooper C.M. Stauffer to the Mercy Hospital in Lebanon. The report stated that neither occupant of the Chevrolet was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Impala was totaled and removed from the scene by Steve’s Towing.

Registration will be held soon at the Salem schools. At the Salem Upper Elementary, new and current students can register from 9:00 to 5:30 on Monday, August 5th and Tuesday, August 6th, while only current students may register on Wednesday, August 7th. For more information, call 729-4812. At the Salem Middle School, students who are new to the area and have not been registered in any Salem school district in grades 6 through 8 may register on Monday, August 5th. All students can register on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, August 6th through the 8th, and on Friday, August 9th. All 6th, 7th and 8th grade students will enroll in the Cafeteria of the Middle School building and a parent or guardian must attend and complete the necessary required enrollment forms and paperwork. For more information, call 729-4261. At the Salem Senior High, seniors will register on Monday, August 5th from 1:00 – 5:00 PM; juniors will register Tuesday, August 6th from 1:00 – 5:00 PM; sophomores will register from 1:00 – 5:00 PM Wednesday, August 7th and freshman will register Thursday, August 8th from 1:00 – 5:00 PM. On Friday, August 9th, anyone who missed registration can register from 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM. For more information about registration, call the Salem Senior High School at 729-6641. Don’t forget your vaccinations must be up to date before you can register your child. Contact the Dent County Health Center if you have questions about which vaccinations are required for each grade level at 729-3106.

The Dent County Sheriffs Department has released a number of reports. On Friday, July 12th, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Dent County Road 3250. During the course of the traffic stop, a 27-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 Sheriff’s Office where she was fingerprinted, issued summons and released. On Saturday, July 13th, deputies conducted a traffic stop with a motorcycle at Highway 32 and Route MM. During the course of the traffic stop, a 23-year-old Salem man was arrested for operating a motorcycle with a drivers’ license not validated for such operations. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he was fingerprinted, issued summons and released. Then on Thursday the 18th, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Dent County Road 4150. During the course of the traffic stop, a 56-year-old Salem woman was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, 35 grams or less of marijuana/synthetic cannabinoid and exceeding posted speed limit by 11-15 mph. The woman was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where she was fingerprinted, issued summons and released. The next day on the 19th, deputies responded to the Missouri Private Probation Services to attempt to serve an arrest warrant. During the course of the incident, a 26-year-old Doolittle woman was arrested for an active warrant through Dent County. The woman was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office Jail and incarcerated. If anyone has any information regarding an ongoing investigation, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

A fatality accident occurred Monday afternoon at 3:32 in Phelps County on Interstate 44 at the 175 mile marker about nine miles west of Rolla. According to the highway patrol report, 59 year-old Roman Zeragia of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was westbound when his 2015 Hino Box Truck traveled off the right side of the roadway, overturned and came to rest. Zeragia was pronounced dead at the scene by Phelps County Coroner Andy Davis at 3:57. The body was taken to James and Gahr Mortuary in Rolla. The truck was totaled and removed from the scene by I-44 Towing of Rolla.