Local News

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Annual MRCA/URA Semi-Pro Labor Day Rodeo was a big success over the weekend with large crowds each night at The Commons. The event is a major fundraiser for the Chamber. Winners this year from the rodeo include Tyler Davidson in Bareback Riding, Cody Payne in Calf Roping, Shane Wesley in the “over 40-years of age” Calf Roping, Trey Watts in Saddle Bronc Riding, Dakota Mayberry and Tyler Triplett in the Team Roping competition, Rachel Schroeder in Barrel Racing and Alvin Detweiler won the Bull Riding Competition. Congratulations to all those who participated in the rodeo and the chamber thanks everyone who attended the event.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released a number of reports. On Wednesday the 21st, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Dent County Road 4210. During the traffic stop, a 32-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 a summons and released. The next day, deputies received information that a 34-year-old Salem woman was in the 200 block of South Grand Street. Deputies were advised that the woman had an active warrant through Dent County. Deputies traveled to the area and located the woman who was arrested and transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Department Jail where she was incarcerated. On Friday the 23rd, deputies conducted a traffic stop in parking lot of Wal-Mart and a 19-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 Sheriff’s Department where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. The next day, Saturday the 24th, deputies received information of a vehicle which was traveling at high rates of speed and causing a traffic hazard. The reporting party said the vehicle was traveling on Highway 68 towards Salem and was almost to the city limits. Deputies traveled to the area and located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop on the Wal-Mart parking lot. During the course of the traffic stop, a 40-year-old Lonedell man was arrested for Driving While Being Intoxicated and possession of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid of 10 grams or less. The driver also had a prior drug offense and a felony driving while having their license revoked or suspended. The man was transported to the Dent County jail and incarcerated. If you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 573-729-3241.

The University of Missouri Extension will host a Management Intensive Grazing School on September 26th and 27th at the MU Hugo Wurdack Research Center near Cook Station. The two-day program will include guest speakers covering the topics of grazing system layout and design, watering systems, fence systems, soil fertility, livestock nutrition, and forage growth and quality. Additionally, extensive farm tours will be included to allow participants to receive training on grazing system utilization. The cost of the two-day school is $135 per person or $175 per farm couple. This fee includes the cost of meals, resource books and other handout materials pertinent to the course. Space is limited for this program and registration along with full payment is required by September 20th. For more information, please contact Rachel Hopkins, the MU Extension Ag Business and Community Engagement Specialist at 573-438-2671. To register for the Grazing School, contact the Crawford County SWCD (Soil & Water Conservation District) office in Rolla, MO at 573-364-6202.

Four people died in traffic crashes during the 2019 Labor Day holiday weekend. Last year, there were 11 fatalities. The Missouri State Highway Patrol investigated the following traffic events including 309 accidents, 107 injuries, 116 driving while intoxicated and made 95 drug arrests. The Labor Day Holiday boating statistics included 13 crashes, 4 injuries, 10 boating while intoxicated, 16 drug related arrests, and there were no boating fatalities. During the 2018 counting period, the Patrol investigated 257 traffic crashes, which included 119 injuries and seven of the 11 fatalities. Troopers made 113 arrests for driving while intoxicated last year. Also, over the Labor Day holiday 2018: Troopers investigated seven boating crashes involving three injuries and no fatalities; and arrested 15 people for boating while intoxicated on the state’s rivers and lakes. There were no drownings over the 2018 Labor Day holiday weekend. Troopers investigated all four of the fatal traffic crashes over the 2019 Labor Day holiday weekend.

In a press release from Dent County Prosecutor Andrew M. Curley, a jury trial was conducted in the State v. Donnie Merrell on June 19th and 20th. The defendant was charged with two counts of Statutory Sodomy in the 1st Degree involving a minor child under the age of 14. The charge was filed as a result of a disclosure to a school counselor and investigation conducted by the Dent County Sheriff’s Department and Missouri Children’s Division that occurred during the winter of 2016 and continued into the beginning of 2017. The charges were filed by prosecutor Andrew M. Curley on February 3rd of 2017, as a result of receiving a probable cause statement from Dent County Sheriff’s Detective Rick Letchworth. Judge Randall Head presided over the trial. The state was represented by Andrew M. Curley and James Weber. The defendant was represented by Stephen Daniels. At the conclusion of the trial, the jury found the defendant guilty of one count of Statutory Sodomy in the 1st Degree. A sentencing hearing then followed on August 26th where Judge Head sentenced the Merrill to 20 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections. In a statement released from the Prosecutor’s Office, Prosecutor Curley indicated the victim and her family were pleased with the result and glad the judicial process was concluded. Curley also wanted to thank the sheriff’s department, the victim advocates, the victim and her family. 

A fatal accident occurred Saturday evening at 6:21 in Dent County on Route ZZ about two miles west of Jadwin. According to the highway patrol report, a 1992 Jeep Cherokee driven by 40-year old Nicholas Easton of Paragold, Arkansas, was traveling northbound on Route ZZ when he lost control of his vehicle. The Jeep overturned and Easton was partially ejected. Easton was transported to the Salem Memorial District Hospital by the Salem Ambulance and was pronounced dead at 7:55 that evening by Dr. Lambird. The Cherokee was totaled and towed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing of Salem. Easton was not wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will hold their regular meeting Tuesday evening at the City Hall Council Chambers beginning at 7:00. Prior to their regular meeting, the alderman will hold a workshop on the nuisance violations at 6:00 to be followed by Planning and Zoning Commission public hearing and then meeting beginning at 6:30 in regards to a conditional use request for a food establishment: The Saucy Chook Pub owned by AJ Schafer and Tina Cook at 206 West Fourth Street. The Planning and Zoning Commission will also discuss short term rentals and discuss the definition of lodging at the meeting. At the Board of Aldermen meeting, they will hear a request from the Grace Community Church to close Water Street from the end of their parking lot to Franklin Street on September 15^th from 8:00 until 4:00, and on October 30^th from 4:00 until 9:00 for community events. After the consent agenda, Planning and Zoning Chairman Gary Brown will give a report on their hearing and meeting before City Administrator Ray Walden updates the board ona number of items regarding the city, a review of the city services at the City Administration Office Building, and give an update of the City Comprehensive Plan. The board will review the request by First Baptist Church to set off fireworks on October 5^th for their Fall Fest Spectacular. The board will then review two bills dealing with the airport construction project: Bill #3428 allowing the mayor to execute an aviation project consultant supplemental agreement between the city and H. W. Lochner, Inc. for providing construction services at the Salem Municipal Airport, and Bill #3429 that allows the mayor to execute an agreement between the city and Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission to extend the airport master plan and layout Project 14-066a-1 to be completed by July 31^st, 2020. The board will also hear Resolution #22-2019 to approve the MoDOT documents related to the state block grant for the construction of T-Hangers, Taxilanes and the replacement of the wind cone. In new business, the board will discuss the Fall Clean Up week that will be held in October and the Lagers Annual Meeting before going into closed session to discuss contracts and personnel. The workshop, Planning and Zoning public hearing and public meeting, and the regular Board of Aldermen meeting on Tuesday are all open to the public.

An accident happened Tuesday afternoon around 2:30 in Dent County on Highway 72 about 4 miles north of Salem resulting in minor injuries to two Salem residents. According to the report from the highway patrol, a 2010 Kia Forte being driven northbound by 62-year old Penny Holloway of Salem, was stopped in the roadway waiting to make a left turn into a private drive and was struck from behind by a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu being driven by 20-year old Thomas Allen of Rolla. Holloway and a passenger, 62-year old Ruth Walker also of Salem, received minor injuries in the accident. Holloway was transported by Salem EMS to Salem Memorial District Hospital while the Walker was transported by a private vehicle to SMDH. All occupants in both vehicles were wearing seat restraints at the time of the accident. Both vehicles sustained minor damage. The Chevrolet was towed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing and the Kia was driven from the scene. The highway patrol was assisted by the Dent County Sheriffs Department.

The Salem Police Department has release reports for August 15th through the 20th. On Thursday, the 15th at around 6:34 in the evening a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. An investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 37-year-old male of Salem for possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana. The suspect was released pending an application for criminal summonses. The next morning, Friday the 16th at approximately 11:23, an officer located a 23-year-old male and a 29-year-old male, both of Salem, who had active arrest warrants. The 23-year-old suspect was wanted by the State of Missouri and was taken into custody. The 29-year-old suspect, who was wanted by Floyd County, Georgia, fled on foot. He was apprehended later the same evening. Both suspects were incarcerated pending a court appearance and extradition. On Tuesday, the 20th, shortly after 1:00 in the afternoon, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 1000 block of South Pershing in reference a fight in progress. An investigation revealed a 49-year-old male of Salem was intoxicated and had assaulted a 37-year-old male, also of Salem. The officer discovered the suspect had pointed an air pistol at the victim near the residence where a 6-year-old male juvenile was also present. After an investigation, the suspect was arrested for assault and unlawful use of a weapon. The suspect was incarcerated pending the application for warrants. The 6-year old who was in the custody of the suspect, was recovered by the Division of Family Services and later released to his mother. That same afternoon at approximately 4:59, an officer was contacted at the police department in reference to the fraudulent use of a credit device. The investigation of the report revealed a person or persons unknown, stole a credit card check and used it at Wal-Mart for $272.53. That report is currently under investigation. Still later that same evening at around 5:25, an officer was contacted at the police department in reference to an assault that had taken place at a residence in the 700 block of South Warfel Street. An investigation revealed that a 31-year-old female of Salem had assaulted a 26-year-old female of Salem causing minor injuries. The report is under investigation at this time. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding an ongoing investigation.

It’s almost time for the Labor Day Salem Area Chamber of Commerce MRCA/URA Rodeo this Saturday and Sunday at The Commons on Highway 72 produced by Outlaw Rodeo Productions. The rodeo begins at 7:30 both Saturday and Sunday nights. Events include bareback riding, calf roping, breakaway roping, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing and bull riding. Activities for children 10 and under include a boot toss and calf scramble each night sponsored by the Doe Run Company. As always, the rodeo will be saluting our veterans and you can join in that salute by wearing red, white, and blue. There will also be a concession stand and numerous vendors will be on hand for the rodeo selling their wares. Tickets at the gate are $10 for adults and $5 for children who are 5-11 years of age. You can purchase discounted advance tickets for $8 for adults and $4 for ages 5-11 at all Salem area banks or by stopping by the Salem Area Chamber Of Commerce office at 200 South Main Street. For more information about the rodeo, call the chamber office at 729-6900.

The Missouri Department of Conservation will increase the prices for some nonresident hunting and fishing permits starting in 2020. According to department, permit prices have not been raised in over a decade and adjustments are needed to help keep up with increasing costs of providing conservation programs and services around the state. The price increases were given initial approval by the Missouri Conservation Commission at its May 23 meeting. As part of the rulemaking process, MDC asked for public comment on the changes during July. The Commission then considered input received and approved the increases during its Aug. 23 meeting. The effective date will be Feb. 29, 2020. Nonresidents account for nearly 100% of daily fishing permit purchases and daily small-game hunting permit purchases. As part of the changes, MDC will also limit daily fishing permits and daily hunting permits to 1 and 3 days and eliminate daily fishing and daily hunting permits for other numbers of days. MDC permit sales account for about 17 percent of the agency’s annual revenue and help fund numerous conservation efforts around the state. Other significant revenue sources include the Conservation Sales Tax at about 61 percent and federal reimbursements at about 16 percent. Sales and rentals, interest, and other sources make up the remaining 6 percent of MDC revenue. According to MDC, the average Missourian pays about $19 annually for conservation efforts through the Department’s dedicated sales tax revenue. MDC receives no funding from property taxes, tickets or citations, which go to local school districts, or the state’s general revenue budget.

Starting next year, the Missouri Department of Conservation will increase the minimum acreage requirement from five to 20 acres for resident landowners and members of their immediate households to receive free permits for deer and turkey hunting. Resident landowners with five or more acres and members of their immediate households will continue to be allowed to hunt small game, fish on waters of the state, and trap on their qualifying properties without the need of a permit. Also starting in 2020, MDC will offer discounted deer and turkey hunting permits for nonresident landowners with 75 acres or more in a contiguous tract. According to MDC, many nonresident landowners provide wildlife habitat work on their properties and those efforts can provide benefits to state wildlife resources. MDC is also implementing a landowner registry starting in 2020 for resident landowners to obtain free landowner deer and turkey permits and for nonresident landowners to obtain discounted landowner permits. The registry is needed by both MDC and permit vendors to help eliminate misuse of landowner permits and privileges. According to MDC, conservation agents around the state find several hundred related violations each year. A review by conservation agents in 2017 found 35% misuse of deer and turkey hunting landowner privileges. Prior to 2004, landowners wanting no cost landowner deer and turkey hunting privileges were required to provide proof by mailing the appropriate information to MDC. The landowner registry will be available starting in January 2020. MDC conducted an online landowner survey in March to get feedback on acreage preferences. The changes were given initial approval by the Missouri Conservation Commission at its May 23 meeting. As part of the rulemaking process, MDC asked for public comments during July and early August. The Commission considered input received and approved the changes at its August 23rd meeting. The changes will become effective January 15th, 2020.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Office has submitted the following reports. On Friday, August 16th, deputies observed a man walking south on Highway 72. Deputies went to check on the man and during the course of the incident, a 29-year-old man was arrested for warrants through Salem Police Department and Probation and Parole. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and incarcerated. Then on Saturday, August 17th, deputies received a report from Jadwin Canoe Rental of a man that had threatened people on one of their transportation buses. After investigating the incident, deputies traveled to the 700 block of East Hunt Street and arrested a 33-year-old Salem man for peace disturbance, a 1st offense. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. Finally on Sunday, August 18th, deputies traveled to the 100 block of Route F for a report of a burglary that had occurred. During the course of the investigation, a man and woman were seen exiting the woods surrounding the residence. The man and woman were identified and a stop and hold was issued for the subjects. Later that day, the man and woman were located by the Salem Police Department and Missouri State Highway Patrol at Wal-Mart. The man and woman were arrested for Burglary in the 2nd degree and Stealing in the 1st degree. Both subjects were transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and were incarcerated. Please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 573-729-3241 if you have any information about an ongoing investigation.

An accident occurred in Dent County Monday evening at 7:50 on Highway 72 about nine miles west of Salem. According to the highway patrol report, a westbound 2017 Subaru Forester, driven by 49-year-old Calvin Owens of High Ridge, struck a deer attempting to cross the road. Owens suffered minor injuries and sought his own medical treatment. The Subaru sustained moderate damage and the disposition of the vehicle is unknown. The report stated that Owens was wearing his safety device at the time of the accident.

The Salem Police Department released reports for August 13th and 14th. On Tuesday morning the 13th at approximately 10:25 an officer located a 22-year-old male of Salem in the 600 block of West Fourth who had an active arrest warrant from the City of Salem. The suspect was taken into custody on the warrant and incarcerated pending a court appearance. That night at approximately 10:19 a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. Investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 31-year-old male of Salem for driving while revoked. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. Then on Wednesday afternoon the 14th at approximately 1:25 an officer was investigating a crash at Missouri Highways 32 & 19. Investigation of the accident led to the arrest of a 45-year-old male of Salem for driving while suspended. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. That night at approximately 10:42 an officer located a 30-year-old male of Salem near Ray and Key Lanes who had two active arrest warrants from Crawford County. The suspect was taken into custody on the warrants and incarcerated pending extradition. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information regarding an investigation previously mentioned.

The American Volunteers will be holding an Off-Road Swap Meet at the Flat Nasty off-road park in Jadwin. The meet will be held starting at 8:00 Saturday morning, August 31st at 1775 Route ZZ. You will find all types of new and used equipment. You can reserve your spot for $10 all day by calling 729-1394. Great food and drinks will be available. If you got it, bring it, trade it or sell it!

An accident occurred Sunday evening at 8:26 in Texas County on Highway 137 about four miles south of Licking that took the life of a Licking man. According to the highway patrol report, a 1999 Dodge 3500 truck driven by 19-year old William Grammar of Summersville, was attempting to turn left from a private drive onto Highway 137 northbound when a southbound 2001 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by 57-year old Frank Davy of Licking struck the side of the towed unit in the southbound lane. The body of Frank Davy was taken to the Fox Funeral Home in Licking. He was wearing his safety equipment at the time of the accident. The Harley Davidson was totaled and removed from the scene by Jay’s Automotive of Houston. The Dodge truck sustained minor damage and was driven from the scene.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the courthouse. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles was not in attendance due to a previous commitment. District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell was appointed as the temporary Presiding Commissioner for the meeting. In the road report for district 1, Commissioner Purcell stated that grading was going to be done on Dent County Roads 4080, 5160, 5170 and 6220. He also said brush would be cut on county roads 4253, 4255, 5070, 5190 and 5410. Purcell went on to say that a grader is not in operation and in need of maintenance. A technician from John Deere will need to repair the problem. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported grading was going to be done on Dent County Road 2500 while materials will be added and patch grading will be done on county roads 4280, 4290 and 5260. Larson said brush will be cut on county road 2240, materials will be added to county road 2380 and patch grading will be done on county road 2540. Larson also said chip and seal overlay will begin later this week and the county apologizes in advance for any delays due to the work being done. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said she would be attending the annual County Clerks Election Authority Conference at the Lodge of the Four Seasons and will not be at the meeting Thursday. At the last meeting, Commissioner Purcell contacted Matt Lloyd with Fabick and Company regarding the two new Cat graders. Even after some adjustments, the commissioners and grader operators are still not satisfied with the performance and safety of the graders. The commissioners decided they did not want the new graders and asked for their old John Deere graders back. They will be talking with Lloyd again about the problem, but plan on re-bidding to get new graders. Mike Elliott from Town and Country Insurance was in to discuss the water damage in the Judicial Building from a toilet. The commissioners also heard from Dennis Hayman about setting a date to celebrate the 150th year celebration of the Dent County Courthouse. No date has been discussed or decided at this time. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

A three vehicle accident occurred Wednesday evening on August 14th around 6:10 that left a woman from Rolla with minor injuries. The report from the Salem Police Department states that a 2019 Toyota Corolla driven by Ruth Ridenhour of Licking had just exited a private drive and was preparing to turn left onto northbound Highway 72. The Corolla turned into the side of a 2007 F-250 being driven by Bret Bailey of Salem. The Ford was pushed into the entry lane of Highway 72 where it collided with a 2003 Buick Century being driven by Brenda Vasic of Rolla. Vasic was transported by EMS to the Salem Memorial District hospital for treatment of minor injuries. The Toyota sustained extensive damage and was towed from the scene. The Ford and Buick were both driven from the scene with minor to moderate damage.

The Dent County follow-up community conversation on the opioid epidemic will be held tonight starting at 5:30 at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory located at 1200 West Rolla Road in Salem. Join in the discussion along with the panel of experts as they listen and educate on how the opioid epidemic impacts our community and what local leaders are doing in response to the crisis. The town hall meeting, which is hosted by Your Community Cares Rural Health Coalition, will include professionals from local law enforcement, the medical community and recovery advocates. The event is free.

An accident happened Sunday evening at approximately 8:22 in Franklin County on westbound Interstate 44 around the 235 mile marker that resulting in injuries to a teenager from Steelville. According to the report from the highway patrol, a 2019 Freightliner being driven by 32-year old Tracy Manuel of Norfolk, Virginia, was traveling in westbound in the left lane as a 2008 Pontiac G-6 driven by 18-year old Elizabeth Ruth of Steelville, was entering the interstate from the rest area and traveled into the path of the Freightliner. The right front bumper of the Pontiac struck the towed unit of the Freightliner. Ruth was taken to Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital in a personal vehicle for treatment of minor injuries. The report states both drivers were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident. The Frieghtliner sustained no damage in the accident and was driven from the scene while the Pontiac sustained moderate damage and was towed from the scene by personal conveyance.

An accident occurred Sunday morning around 12:35 in Crawford County on Oak Hill Road about five miles north of Cuba. According to the highway patrol report, a 2004 Dodge Ram driven by 14-year old Lane Bridgeman of Cuba was traveling southbound when pickup began to skid. The Dodge traveled off the left side of the road before overturning. The vehicle then struck a tree before finally coming to rest. Lane was pronounced deceased at the scene by Crawford County Coroner Darren Dake. Lane’s body was transported to the Hudson Funeral Home. The other three occupants of the vehicle all suffered serious injuries. They were 14- year old Luke Bridgeman of Cuba who was flown to Children’s Hospital in St. Louis by Air Evac, 12-year old Thomas Drew of Steelville who was flown by Arch Air to Children’s Hospital in St. Louis and 12-year old Devon Watring was flown to Children’s Hospital in St Louis by Phelps Air. The driver and all occupants of the vehicle wear wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident. The Dodge was totaled and removed from the scene by Chris & Son’s Towing. The highway patrol was assisted at the scene by the Crawford County Sheriff’s Department, North Crawford County Ambulance, Cuba Fire Department and the Bourbon Fire Department.

The Salem Police Department has released some reports. On Sunday, August 11th, just after midnight, an officer located a 35-year-old female of Rolla near Macarthur and Acuff who had two active arrest warrants from Dent County. The suspect was taken into custody on the warrants and for resisting arrest. The suspect was incarcerated pending a court appearance. The next afternoon, Monday August 12th, near 1:17, an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department in reference to a theft. The investigation of the report revealed the victim lost a wallet containing identification and cash valued at $170.20 near the Salem Public Library. By use of security surveillance video, the officer was able to locate a 67-year-old male of Salem who found the wallet and took it. Further investigation led to the arrest of the suspect for stealing and recovery of the wallet and cash. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. Later that afternoon at approximately 3:17, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The onvestigation of the report led to the arrest of a 29-year-old female of Salem for stealing merchandise valued at $44.74. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. That same evening at 6:58, an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department in reference to a theft from a storage unit. The investigation of the report revealed a person or persons unknown forcibly entered a storage unit and took a bicycle valued at $100.00. The report is under investigation. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information regarding an investigation previously mentioned.

An accident occurred Friday evening around 6:06 in Phelps County on Route CC about three miles west of Rolla. According to the highway patrol report, a 2011 Chevrolet Camaro driven by 21-year old Caleb Gentry of Rolla, was traveling westbound at a high rate of speed. The Camaro traveled off the left side of the road, struck a ditch and overturned several times. Gentry suffered moderate inquires and was transported to Phelps Health Hospital by Phelps Health Ambulance. Gentry was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Camaro was totaled and removed from the scene by Dishman’s Towing.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Office has submitted the following reports. On Sunday, August 11th, deputies traveled to the 4000 block of County Road 3220 to investigate a report of a non-injury traffic crash. Deputies arrived on the scene and during the course of the incident investigation the driver, a 56-year-old Salem man, fled the scene. Deputies began to pursue the vehicle and observed the man had wrecked in the 3000 block of County Road 3220. The man was observed running from the wreck into the nearby woods. Deputies gave chase after the subject and the man was apprehended. The man was arrested for a DWI, habitual driving while having his license revoked or suspended – a felony, and two counts of resisting arrest for a felony. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office Jail and incarcerated. Then on Thursday, August 15th, deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 800 Block of East 3rd Street. During the course of the traffic stop, a 36-year-old Salem man was arrested for driving while having is license revoked or suspended, a 1st offense. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and was released. Also on the 15th, deputies traveled to the 2000 block of Highway 119 to assist with a medical call. During the course of the incident, a 25-year-old Salem man was arrested for active warrants through Dent County. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and incarcerated. Please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 573-729-3241 if you have any information about an investigation.

An accident happened Wednesday afternoon shortly before 5:00 in Phelps County on highway O approximately 4 miles south of Rolla. The highway patrol reports states that a 2009 Volkswagen Routan driven by Amy Hyatt of Rolla was traveling southbound on O when she pulled onto the shoulder in an attempt to make a U-turn. While making the turn, the vehicle traveled into the path of a 1996 Dodge D150 also being driven south by Gary Longgrear of Rolla. Hyatt was transported to Phelps Health by ambulance for treatment of minor injuries. Both vehicles sustained minor damage. The Dodge was driven from the scene and the Volkswagen was removed from the scene by C & C Towing. Both drivers were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident according to the report.

The Dent County Commissioners met for regular meeting Thursday morning in the Dent County Courthouse. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams was in to report the CART Tax receipts for August of $60,037.34, which is $493.65 below August of 2018. Year-to-date Cart Receipts are down $5,977.49 or about 1.3%. In the road report District One Commissioner Dennis Purcell said that with 3 to 4 inches of rainfall Wednesday and Thursday his crews were out checking for washouts, downed trees and limbs, plus cleaning out culverts. He said a tree had to be cleared off of Dent County Road 4150 and brush was being cut on county road 5170. Purcell said that on Monday he attended a Tourism Committee meeting where four proposals were submitted and approved, while three reimbursement requests were approved. He reported that on Tuesday he attended the South Central Community Action Agency meeting in Winona and that funds are still available for all programs. Purcell reported that just last week funds were approved for jobs for 14 to 24 year old youths including those with disabilities and those in school. He noted there are dollars available for low income energy assistance and weatherization. Income guidelines do apply and to get more information call Sarah at 573-729-3500. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson reported that his crews were out checking roads for washouts and that truck #65 was being worked on. He also reported that quarry rock was going to be stockpiled at the Road and Bridge Department for use in emergencies on weekends. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles reported that on Wednesday he attending a SEMA meeting in Jefferson City about community planning for economic recovery from disasters. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said that the Commissioners were approving bills for payment. Nick Smith and Dwight Ramsburg were in to provide a jail project update. The next meeting of the Commission will be Monday morning in the Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Dent County follow-up community conversation on the opioid epidemic will be held on Tuesday starting at 5:30 at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory located at 1200 West Rolla Road in Salem. Join in the discussion along with the panel of experts as they listen and educate on how the opioid epidemic impacts our community and what local leaders are doing in response to the crisis. The town hall meeting, which is hosted by Your Community Cares Rural Health Coalition, will include professionals from local law enforcement, the medical community and recovery advocates. The event is free but attendees are asked to please RSVP for complimentary appetizers and drinks. RSVP to Felisha Richards at 573-426-6711 or email Felisha at frichards@your-chc.org.

The Salem Police Department has released a number of reports. On Friday afternoon, August 9th, at approximately 12:30 an officer located a 21-year-old male of Salem in the 700 block of South Washington who had two active arrest warrants from Rolla. The suspect was taken into custody on the warrants and incarcerated pending extradition. That evening at approximately 6:16, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 27-year-old male of Lenox for driving while having his license suspended. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. Just minutes later at about 6:44, an officer located a 37-year-old male of Salem in the 800 block of Highway 32 West who had an active arrest warrant from the City of Salem. The suspect was taken into custody on the warrant and incarcerated pending a court appearance. On Saturday morning, August 10th near 1:46, an officer was dispatched to the area of Westwood Drive and Roosevelt in reference to peace disturbance. That investigation revealed two vehicles were parked alongside each other on Roosevelt. The driver and a passenger of a red 1999 Ford Explorer were having a dispute with the driver and sole occupant of a silver 2007 Chevrolet Impala. During the dispute, the 18-year-old male passenger of Salem in the Explorer fired a shot from a handgun into the Impala occupied by a 20-year-old female of Salem who was not struck by the bullet. Further investigation led to the arrest of the suspect for 1st degree assault and unlawful use of a weapon. The suspect was incarcerated pending the application for a warrant. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information regarding an investigation.

Weather permitting, crews with the Missouri Department of Transportation will make repairs to low water crossings along Dent County Route TT from Monday, August 26th through Thursday August 29th. One lane of traffic will be open as a result of the work. However, the installation of culvert pipes will force the complete closure of Route TT on Monday, August 26th and Tuesday, August 27th from 6:30 in the morning until 6:30 at night each day. Message boards will advise motorists of the closures and detour routes. MoDOT appreciates the patience of travelers during the work. 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 Salem Memorial District Hospital held a tax rate hearing before their regular board meeting Tuesday evening in the Hospital Library. The total assessed valuation for the year 2020 comes to $252,648,448 from the four counties that make up the hospital district. That is a two-million dollar increase from 2019. The board elected to keep the rate at 19.25 cents per $100 assessed valuation and that will produce approximately $486.348.00 for capital improvements. In the regular meeting, the board heard a presentation from Zach Moser, the Pharmacy Director who gave an overview of the Pharmacy Department in the past, currently and in the future. They only have three people in the department but play an integral role in the hospital operations. Martha Tibbs, the new Lab Director, gave a report on her department that had nine fulltime and two part time people. She wanted to remind everyone that the Health Fair would be held at the Salem Community Center@The Armory on September 18th and 19th. Monica Stogsdill gave the summary of operations for the month of July which was a busy one for the hospital. They had 133 inpatient admissions with 468 inpatient census days which comes to an Acute Care Occupancy percentage of 60.4. Stogsdill believes that is a record high for the hospital. The hospital showed a gain from operations of $174,633 and revenues over expenses after taxes of $178,805. Cash increased for the month by $78,846 with the days in net account receivables dropped to 55 from 65 days last month. During the month, there were 826 emergency room visits to go with 217 ambulance runs with 164 patients being transported. In July, there were 30 surgery cases, 1,899 outpatient registrations, 389 home health visits, 9,119 lab tests, 1,417 radiological procedures including 826 rehab treatments. Chief of Nursing Debbie Hines gave the Acute Care Staffing versus patient acuity for the month. Hospital Administrator Kasey Lucas said the next Hospital Auxiliary meeting will be held Tuesday, September 3rd at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. He said the “Wings and Strings” Fundraiser held August 3rd lost about $6,500 but much of that loss was in advertising money that will be reimbursed the Tourism Tax Committee. They have tentatively set next year’s event for September 12th. The hospital will have an ambulance at the Chamber of Commerce Rodeo Labor Day weekend and will also have an ambulance at the home football games starting in September. Lucas also said they will soon offer a First Responder Training for the Salem Police Department, Dent County Sheriff’s Department and Dent County Fire Department. The SMDH Renovation of the Long-Term Care unit may begin as soon as September 9th as work continues with the architects on the overall plan. The Finance Committee appointments were made and Ray Bruno will be the new chairman with Mike Swyers and Sue Terry on the committee. The board will hold their annual bylaw review next month and they also approved to sell the original tractor which is taking up room in the garage. The board then went into closed session.

An accident happened Tuesday afternoon at 5:05 in Phelps County on Highway 68 about 13 miles south St. James that took the life of a woman from Winona. According to the highway patrol report, 43-year old Melissa Allison of Rolla was driving a Ford F-150 southbound when she began hydroplaning and crossed the center line and struck head-on a 1999 Buick Regal driven northbound by Ellen Walker of Winona. The Ford then overturned and struck a 2003 Chevy Impala driven northbound by 34-year old Corey Wilson of Owensville. Walker was pronounced dead at the scene and her body was taken to the Rolla Crematorium by Deputy Coroner Gavin McDonald. Allison suffered serious injuries and was transported by Mercy Air to the University Hospital in Columbia. Wilson also suffered serious injuries and was transported by the St. James Ambulance to the Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan. Walker and Wilson were wearing seat restraints at the time of the accident but it was unknown if Allison was. The Ford and Chevy Impala were removed from the scene by Dishman’s Towing while the Buick was removed from the scene by Spurgeon’s Towing. The Missouri State Highway Patrol was assisted by the St. James Fire Department, St. James Ambulance and MoDOT.

The 2019-2020 Missouri Official Highway Map is now available. The free map features all miles of state-maintained routes and also shows locations for public-use airports, hospitals, colleges and universities, national forests, state parks and conservation areas. Improvements include larger fonts and better color contrasts for users who may be visually impaired or have trouble with color recognition. You can order a map by going online at modot.org or by calling 1-888-ASK-MODOT.

The Salem Board of Aldermen regular meeting was held Monday evening at the City Hall Council Chambers. In the hearing of persons, Julie Malone from the Salem Memorial District Hospital was in to request the closing of 4th Street on October 1st from noon to about 12:15 to hold a Breast Cancer Awareness Walk. The alderman suggested that instead of closing the streets on Tuesday, October 1st, the walk would have a police escort instead. Malone agreed to that and the alderman approved the request to hold the walk. The board approved the budgeted purchase of two Dodge Ram pickups for the building inspector and the nuisance officer for $22,407 each by a 3-1 vote. The board approved the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission to allow the property at 600 North Main owned by Glen Sapaugh to be used for a used car lot to be operated by Jim Chafin. The board recommended that cars only be allowed on the western half of lots 17 and 18. City Administrator Ray Walden wanted to thank the electric and street departments for the extra work on Friday in clearing trees from the roads and restoring power to virtually everyone in Salem. If you still don’t have power, please call 729-4117. Walden also remind citizens that when the electric goes out, do not open your refrigerator or freezer as they can keep food cool or cold for a long time before they warm up. Walden wanted to remind everyone that last Economic Development Strategic Plan Workshop will be this Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 at the Bank of Salem Courtesy Room on 4th Street. He said the City Administrative Offices would be closed on September 2nd for Labor Day and the next meeting of the Board of Aldermen would be on Tuesday, September 3rd at 7:00. The board approved Bill #3427 that amended the ordinance for the firing off of fireworks in the city, approved Resolution #20-2019 that stated the city intended on seeking funding through the Community Development Block Grant for the Construction Trades and the new Cybersecurity Technology building. The board went on to approve Bill #21-2019 that would authorize Mayor Brad Nash to sign a contract between the city and Riverways Federal Credit Union for consulting services on their “Welcome Home Program“ for property improvement. The board did not act on Resolution #19-2019 that dealt with the policies and procedures for the hanger rental, hanger usage, fuel pricing and other airport policies. Further discussion between the Airport Board, Board of Aldermen members and Attorney William Camm Seay will be held before the resolution is reintroduced to the board. The board then went into closed session.

The Salem Police has released some reports. On Sunday morning, August 4th, shortly after midnight, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. An investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 44-year-old female of Salem for the possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. The suspect was issued summonses to appear in court and released. Later that afternoon near 3:10, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 200 block of West Second Street in reference to a domestic disturbance. The investigation revealed a 21-year-old female of Salem was threatening and acting violent toward the residents. A further investigation led to the arrest of the suspect for disorderly conduct and failure to obey a lawful order of a police officer. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. On Monday afternoon, August 5th at around 2:00, an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department in reference to a stolen debit card. That investigation revealed the victim received a notice that someone had attempted to use his card to make purchases and it was declined. The victim found that his card had been stolen. An officer went to the locations where the attempts to use the card were made and recovered video surveillance and identified the suspect. The investigation led to the arrest of a 21-year-old male of Salem for the fraudulent use of a credit card. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. On Wednesday morning, August 7th at around 9:46, an officer was dispatched to a traffic accident at the Dent County Health Center. The investigation of the crash revealed a 2001 Chevrolet Truck driven by a 57-year-old male of Salem had run into the Dent County Health building. A further investigation led to the arrest of the driver for driving while being intoxicated, driving while having his license revoked, driving without insurance and not having his vehicle licensed. The suspect was issued summonses to appear in court and released. No injuries were reported. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding an ongoing investigation.