Local News

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will meet this evening at 6:00 at 202 N. Washington in the Old City Hall Auditorium. After a sewer rate hearing the aldermen, meeting will start with the Call to Order, which will be followed by the approval of the agenda and the consent agenda. Public Comments will then be heard followed the approval of a bid for a water department truck.  In new and miscellaneous business, the Board will consider the following. A John Deere Loader lease, the Laserfiche contract, a drinking water grant, and Resolution No. 26-2024 which provides for the municipal election for the City of Salem on April 25th, 2025. Bills to be considered include Bill No. 3630, an ordinance establishing service availability fees for sewer services provided by the City of Salem, Bill No. 3631, an ordinance authorizing the mayor to enter into an agreement between BuildTec Construction LLC and the City of Salem for the Salem Water System Improvements, Contract A, Bill No. 3632, an ordinance authorizing the mayor to enter into an agreement between Caldwell Tanks, Inc and the City of Salem for the Salem Water System Improvements, Contract B, Bill No. 3633, an ordinance authorizing the mayor to enter into an agreement between B & H Drilling & Pump Service and the City of Salem for the Salem Water System Improvements, Contract C. There is to be a board appointment followed by the Oath of Office. Reports from City Officials will be heard before the Board goes in to closed session. The meeting tonight of the City of Salem Board of Aldermen is open to the public.

In a letter from the Salem R-80 Superintendent, Dr. Nathan Wills, he writes about collaboration between school districts to enhance educational opportunities for all students. He, along with Assistant Superintendent, Dan Copeland, recently toured the neighboring rural school districts in Dent County and gained valuable insight into their daily operations. Dr. Wills expressed his gratitude for the hospitality and openness of the administrators as they work together on various collaborative projects and activities throughout the year. One such project is the cooperative sponsorship of 7th and 8th grade football, track and field, and cross country, where all Dent County students have the opportunity to participate in these sports together on the same team. Dr. Wills also stated that just this past year, as well as this current school year, they have partnered with the other four Dent County school districts to attend a Repertory Theater performance sponsored by the Salem Area Arts Council. Additionally, the monthly meetings among the five Dent County superintendents provide a forum to share best practices, address local issues, and collectively brainstorm solutions. Dr. Wills encourages all parents, educators, and community members to support and advocate for these collaborative initiatives as they enrich the educational landscape and prepare students for a bright future. By uniting their efforts, the Dent County school districts can make a meaningful difference in the lives of their students and communities. To read the entire letter from Dr. Wills, please visit the KSMO Radio/Your World Today Facebook page. 

The Dent County Fire Protection district board of directors will be meeting this evening at 6:00 at the fire station at #2 South Main Street. After the roll call and approval of the consent agenda which includes the budget review and financial reports, the monthly reimbursement report will be heard. In old business, the board will discuss the AFG grant status for radios before the board discusses Bond/Tax issues followed by new business. Chief Floyd will then give his report to the board. The date will be set for the December meeting and Closes Session may be held if necessary, before the board adjourns. The meeting Tuesday evening will be open to the public.

The Salem Police Department had more reports from October 10th to 18th. On Wednesday afternoon, October 16th, at approximately 2:30 officers conducted a traffic stop on Missouri Highway 72 near the intersection of Missouri Highway J for no registration. As a result of the stop a male subject was found to have a active capias warrant out of Phelps County. Van T. Penton, age 35, of Rolla was arrested and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. Then on Thursday night at approximately 12:30 officers responded to a disturbance in the 1800 block of south Oak. The subject causing the disturbance was found to have an active capias warrant out of Dent County. As a result, 27-year-old Tristan Gaddy of Salem was arrested and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. Friday afternoon, the 18th, at approximately 4:45 officers were dispatched to Trinity for a report of shoplifting. It was reported that a female subject had stolen approximately $50 of merchandise. After a short investigation a 45-year-old Salem female was arrested and issued summons for shoplifting. Later that night at approximately 8:30 officers were dispatched to Wal Mart for a report of shoplifting. It was reported a male subject had stolen $275 worth of merchandise from the store. After a short investigation a 23-year-old male from West Plains was arrested and issued summons for shoplifting. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways has experienced widespread flooding due to significant rainfall that began on November 3rd. The upper Current River reached historic levels on November 5th, with rainfall totals of 9 to 12 inches across the watershed causing historic flooding from Montauk to Round Spring. At Akers, the river gauge stopped reporting at 23.23 feet, but water levels are estimated to have reached 32 feet, far surpassing the previous record of 26.08 feet set in April 2017. Below Round Spring, both the Current River and Jacks Fork River experienced heavy flooding but did not exceed previous records. Park Rangers conducted several river rescues on Monday and Tuesday for visitors caught off guard, though no major injuries were reported. Many facilities, campgrounds, and river access points throughout the park sustained damage and will be closed for assessment, hazard mitigation, and repairs. Unprecedented river levels caused significant damage to facilities at Akers and Pulltite. The Akers Ranger Station had approximately two feet of water throughout, while the old Akers Ferry Canoe Rental store was almost fully submerged. At Pulltite Campground, water reached the roof of the Ranger Station and shower house, causing extensive destruction. For visitor safety, the Current River from Baptist to Round Spring will be closed to all vessels until approximately this Wednesday, November 13th. Additional closures include all backcountry campgrounds, Pulltite Campground, Akers and Round Spring group campsites, the old Akers Ferry Canoe Rental Store, Baptist River access, Lipps Hole, Alley Spring Campground, and Big Spring Campground. National Park Service staff will be working to reopen high-priority areas as quickly as possible. For more information and updates, visit the park website at nps.gov/ozar, follow their Facebook page, or call (573) 323-4236.

On Thursday, October 31st in the U.S. District Court in St. Louis, 43-year-old Justin Bradley Durham of Rolla, pleaded guilty to one count of production of child pornography, two counts of receiving child pornography and three counts of destroying records in a federal investigation. Durham, a former Phelps County Sheriff’s deputy, admitted as part of his plea that he requested and received a sexually explicit video from a 16-year-old in 2013. He later provided $200 to the victim after she engaged in sex acts with him. He also admitted engaging in sex acts multiple times with a 17-year-old victim, including in his patrol vehicle. He exchanged sexually explicit images and videos with her. Durham met the second victim in 2016 when her friend contacted the police, and he responded to the call. The FBI interviewed Durham in 2023 after learning that his PayPal account had been used to send money to another account associated with the sale of child pornography. Durham denied purchasing child pornography and claimed that he hadn’t accessed his Dropbox account for years. He refused agents’ request to search his cell phone. Two days later, Durham bought a new phone, destroyed his old phone and deleted about 37 gigabytes of data in his Dropbox account before deactivating it. Among those files were hundreds of sexually explicit images and videos, including files containing child sexual abuse material. Durham was terminated by the Sheriff’s Department on August 9th, 2023, and arrested by them. In jail, he told FBI agents that he also destroyed a laptop computer, threw away his phone and conducted a “digital footprint scrub” of his online accounts, his plea agreement says. Durham is scheduled to be sentenced February 5th, 2025. The production of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, and the receipt of child pornography charge has a five-year mandatory minimum. The FBI and the Missouri State Highway Patrol investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Bateman is prosecuting the case.

The Creative Arts Center in Salem will hold a class on recycling old Christmas Cards into Ornaments tomorrow from 6:00 to 8:00 in the evening with Angela Dingess. Learn how to turn your old Christmas cards into a handmade ornament to treasure or give as gifts. The cost of the class is $25 and all the supplies will be provided. The class size will be limited to 24 people, but at least four people need to sign to hold the class. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center.

The Dent County Commissioners met for their regular meeting Thursday morning in the courthouse. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams gave her sales tax report for the money collected this month. She said the General Revenue Fund and Law Enforcement Sales Tax Fund each received $87,156.67 which is $3,138.25 more than for November of 2023. Year-to-date, the General Revenue Fund and the LEST funds are up $60,546.89 which is about a 6.25% increase. The Road and Bridge Fund received $40,498.95 this month, and that is down $260.60 from the money received in November of 2023. Year-to-date, that fund is up $25,437.97 which is close to a 5.7% increase. The Dent County Jail Operating and Trust funds each received $81,419.40 in November and that is down $542.13 from the November 2023 receipts. Year-to-date, those funds are up $52,038.72 which is about a 6.4% increase. Grant Wilson from Jason Smith’s Rolla office was in attendance and told the commission that Congressman Smith is aware of the Dent County situation and once assessments are determined, let his office know to look into possibly getting  federal assistance. In the road report, both commissioners indicated there is extensive road damage in Dent County and both District 1 and District 2 are working at getting the impassable roads at least passable, beginning with the worst roads. They did want to say that Dent County Road 4210 and Montauk State Park are closed until further notice. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson wanted to thank Bonnie Prigge and Anne Freund from the MRPC and Preston Kramer from MoDOT as well as Salem Public Administrator Sally Burbridge and Salem Public Works Director Steven Paine for attending the Dent County transportation priority meeting updating the previous years’ transportation needs. Larson also said a special meeting was held on Tuesday, November 5th to discuss what the districts needs and priorities will be during the flooding that day. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley was complimented by the commissioners for her outstanding job for the election Tuesday where everything went smooth. Curley gave the credit to the poll workers, her staff, judges, those who set up the equipment, law enforcement personnel, emergency response personnel and others. Curley was quick to note that one poll worker had to be water rescued from Pigeon Creek, and then still went to work at the polls at Green Forest R-II from the water rescue scene, wet from the waist down. Curley reported that Dent County had over 70% voter turnout and set new records daily for no-excuse absentee voting getting over 2,500 votes cast in the 10 days before the election. Curley said her office is saddened over the loss of two poll workers in Wright County from the storm. Dent County Emergency Director Derrick Marfitt gave a list of roads damaged that he and the Dent County Sheriff’s Department has found damaged, then told of damages sustained by three cabins near the Current River in which one of them was actually removed from its foundation and floated down river. Marfitt did want to let Dent County residents know that if they sustained major damage to their home, loss of livestock, or damages to their business in the county to please call him at 573-247-7504. There may be assistance available to help recover from the losses from FEMA depending upon the total dollar amounts from throughout the county. He also said if you have damage, document it and take pictures if you can. He said he would be meeting with SEMA Region I Coordinator from the Response Division Brett Hendrix and would inform him that at this time, based on information from the county commission, it appears damages to the county roads will come to about four million dollars in materials alone and that does not include labor. He will also ask if the county can get additional equipment like dump trucks and trailers to help address getting equipment to the road problems, and additional manpower would also be beneficial, if available.  It was announced the courthouse would be closed Monday due to Veteran’s Day and there will be no meeting. The next commissioner’s meeting will be Thursday morning, November 14th at 9:00 at the courthouse and it will be open to the public.

On Thursday, October 31st in the U.S. District Court in St. Louis, 45-year-old Jason Michael Enke of Crawford County, pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography, one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of coercion and enticement of a minor. In court, Enke admitted that from August 2023 to October 2023, he sent a series of sexually explicit messages via social media and during online chat sessions to five people who identified themselves as minors. He also sent a video of himself and a 16-year-old engaging in sex acts and attempted to persuade the minors to engage in sexual conduct. In November of 2023, the FBI’s St. Louis office received a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that Enke had sent a video containing child pornography to an Instagram user who listed their age as 15. FBI agents performed a court-approved search of Enke’s home near Bourbon, Missouri and found videos containing child sexual abuse material on his electronic devices. Enke is scheduled to be sentenced January 29th, 2025. The receipt and distribution charges carry a potential penalty of five to 20 years in prison and the coercion charge carries a sentence of 10 years to life in prison. The FBI and the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted the case.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to inform the public of upcoming changes to the driver license testing process. In preparation for the transition, driver examination stations throughout the state will close at 12 noon today,  and all-day tomorrow. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, November 12, following the Veterans Day holiday. Driver examination testing facilities will be closed due to converting to a modernized system, directly integrated into the Department of Revenue’s new driver license system. Follow this link for further information on the driver’s license system changes being implemented by the Missouri Department of Revenue MV-DL System Changes (mo.gov). As part of this upgrade, the Patrol will now offer the Class F written test in a total of 20 languages, which includes a newly created sign language video version of the test made possible by the Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. The new system will provide a direct digital reporting network to the Department of Revenue. The system will increase efficiency by sending test results directly to the Department of Revenue. The new system will also help deter driver license fraud. For more information, please visit our website at mshp.dps.mo.gov.

Due to flooding in the area, the Taum Sauk Mountain State Park and Jay Nixon Backcountry conceptual development plan meeting originally scheduled for November 9th has been postponed to Saturday, December 7th at 9:00 in the morning. The guided hikes being held in conjunction with the meeting, including the overnight trip to Jay Nixon Backcountry, are also postponed due to flooded trails. Representatives from Missouri State Parks invite the public to attend rescheduled informational meetings for both the Taum Sauk Mountain State Park and Jay Nixon Backcountry on Saturday, December 7th. The public is invited to share comments and ask questions about the facilities and their operations. These informational meetings are being held in conjunction with the two parks’ conceptual development planning open house. The open house will be held at Taum Sauk Mountain State Park. In the event of inclement weather, the open house may be moved to a different location, but an update will be provided prior to the date. As the long-range plan for the park is updated, the public is encouraged to come learn more about the planning process, ask questions and provide input regarding future park use and development. A 30-day comment period will begin December 7th with a survey available online at mostateparks.com/CDP. A guided hike to Mina Sauk Falls will be available for those attending and will begin at 10:30 December 7th and it is a strenuous 3.5-mile hike. Input from the public is important to Missouri State Parks. These informational meetings are being heldvirtually or in-person in all state parks and historic sites to help create two-way communication with the public. The meetings will inform the public on the current status and future plans for the park or historic site and offer visitors the opportunity to comment on the facilities.

An accident occurred Tuesday morning around 7:30 in Dent County on Hwy 19 and County Road 5520. According to the highway patrol report a 2015 Toyota Corolla driven by a 54-year-old Salem female was travelling northbound and lost control of the vehicle. The Toyota ran off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree and a fence. The female suffered minor injuries and was transported by private conveyance to Salm Memorial District Hospital. The Toyota was totaled and removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing. The report goes on to state that she was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident.

Due to significant flooding, Montauk State Park is closed to guests until further notice. Park crews are responding and assessing safety concerns and damage to the infrastructure. As floodwaters recede, they will gain a better understanding of the extent of the damage and the scope of work necessary to reopen the park. Montauk State Park is located at 345 State Road 6670 in Salem. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

The Creative Arts Center will hold a beginner and intermediate Seed Beading class on Saturday, November 9th from 1:00 to 4:00 in the afternoon with Cynthia Grigsby. The class is appropriate for all ages! Children (with parent/legal guardian) and adults alike can participate. Each participant will learn the history seed beaded jewelry and make a piece for a keepsake. The cost of the class is $30 and all supplies are included. There must be five people sign up to hold the class and it will be limited to 15. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center.

Yesterday, a General Election was held nationally to determine a number of state and national offices as well as number of county offices. In Dent County, 7,176 ballots were cast which comes to 70.20% of registered voters cast their ballot. Only the locally contested races directly affecting Dent County are presented here. These results are unofficial. * Denotes winner

US Representative District 8 (Dent County Precincts Reported)

*Jason Smith (REP) 5,775 votes
Randi McCallian (DEM) 1,010 votes
Jake Dawson (LIB) 193 votes
Write In 10 votes

State Representative District 120 (Dent County Precincts Reported)
*John W. Hewkin (REP) 5,673 votes
Jen Tracy (DEM) 1,208 votes
Write In 14 votes

Presiding Commissioner Unexpired Term
*Gary Larson (REP) 5,522 votes
Write In 416 votes

Senior Homestead Property Tax Credit Question
*Yes 5,197 votes
No 1,708 votes

To all Salem residents impacted by recent flooding, please contact the City of Salem to share your name, address, and contact information if you have sustained property damage. As a member of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), the City of Salem is working to assess the extent of flood damage in our community, whether property is insured through NFIP or not. The NFIP, a federal program, helps protect homeowners from the financial burden of flood damage by offering affordable flood insurance. This insurance provides coverage for both property damage and loss of personal belongings, giving homeowners faster access to funds for repair and recovery than they might receive through other disaster aid programs. Additionally, NFIP participation means that our community follows floodplain management practices, which help reduce flood risk over time. For us to conduct thorough assessments, it is crucial that we compile a complete list of affected properties as soon as possible. While we understand the need to begin cleanup and repair to restore your daily life, conducting assessments prior to these activities is vital. Early evaluations help document the extent of damage, supporting insurance claims and ensuring resources are directed where they are most needed. According to NFIP guidelines, certain cleanup activities can begin prior to assessment, as long as they do not involve structural repairs. Allowable cleanup includes removing mud, silt, or debris, discarding flood-damaged items such as furniture and appliances, and drying out wet areas. However, any repairs to walls, floors, or structural components should wait until after the assessment to ensure eligibility for insurance claims and proper documentation. If your property was affected, please add it to the assessment list by contacting the City of Salem at 573-729-4811 or by e-mailing your information to administration@salemmo.com. We appreciate your cooperation and understand the challenges this flooding has brought to our community. Working together, we aim to recover and rebuild swiftly and effectively.

The City of Salem has announced they have contracted with Forrester Works LLC to begin tree clearing and limb trimming along their electrical feeder lines to ensure safe and reliable electricity for city residents. The work, which started yesterday will continue through mid-January 2025. The electrical line clearing is critical to maintain public safety, protect infrastructure, and meet environmental standards. A map outlining the specific areas scheduled for clearing by Forrester Works LLC, is available for public viewing on Facebook, and affected areas are primarily those located along the noted electric routes. The work will be done along right-of-ways to keep the power lines free from obstruction. The goals from this project are to provide citizens with electricity in a safe manner, allow work to be done on the line safely and efficiently, and protect the electric distribution system. This project will also minimize negative impacts on the environment will allowing the city to comply with federal, state, and local regulations. By doing this work, the city hopes to reduce power outages and minimize storm clean up and dangers. A proper and safe reliable right-of-way primary line should have a minimum of 10 feet of ground to sky clearance on either side of the electric pole. The city wants to people to know that the contractor may need to side trim large trees planted outside of the 20-foot span to achieve this. When trees come into contact with power lines, children, adults, and even livestock are at risk of serious injury or worse. A clean right-of-way keeps you and your family, as well as our crews working out in the field, safe. 

Reliable power delivered safely is always the goal. The City of Salem also has “right-of-way” crews that will be performing routine maintenance and clearing, including the removal of trees and brush that have grown into or under city-maintained power lines and right-of-ways. In non-maintained areas, brush and/or large wood debris will be spread by brush hogging and/or shredding on city-maintained rights-of-way. The debris may also be piled along sides. Any trees located outside the rights-of-way that are a threat to the electric system (such as dying, diseased, leaning, or storm damaged trees) shall be stubbed, cut or appropriately topped to avoid outages, and clean-up will not be provided. Any further restoration/maintenance of the site will be the property owner’s responsibility. For more information or questions regarding the project, please contact the City of Salem’s Public Works Director Steve Paine at 573-729-4811.

The City of Salem has announced they have contracted with Forrester Works LLC to begin tree clearing and limb trimming along their electrical feeder lines to ensure safe and reliable electricity for city residents. The work, which started yesterday will continue through mid-January 2025. The electrical line clearing is critical to maintain public safety, protect infrastructure, and meet environmental standards. A map outlining the specific areas scheduled for clearing by Forrester Works LLC, is available for public viewing on Facebook, and affected areas are primarily those located along the noted electric routes. The work will be done along right-of-ways to keep the power lines free from obstruction. The goals from this project are to provide citizens with electricity in a safe manner, allow work to be done on the line safely and efficiently, and protect the electric distribution system. This project will also minimize negative impacts on the environment will allowing the city to comply with federal, state, and local regulations. By doing this work, the city hopes to reduce power outages and minimize storm clean up and dangers. A proper and safe reliable right-of-way primary line should have a minimum of 10 feet of ground to sky clearance on either side of the electric pole. The city wants to people to know that the contractor may need to side trim large trees planted outside of the 20-foot span to achieve this. When trees come into contact with power lines, children, adults, and even livestock are at risk of serious injury or worse. A clean right-of-way keeps you and your family, as well as our crews working out in the field, safe. Reliable power delivered safely is always the goal. The City of Salem also has “right-of-way” crews that will be performing routine maintenance and clearing, including the removal of trees and brush that have grown into or under city-maintained power lines and right-of-ways. In non-maintained areas, brush and/or large wood debris will be spread by brush hogging and/or shredding on city-maintained rights-of-way. The debris may also be piled along sides. Any trees located outside the rights-of-way that are a threat to the electric system (such as dying, diseased, leaning, or storm damaged trees) shall be stubbed, cut or appropriately topped to avoid outages, and clean-up will not be provided. Any further restoration/maintenance of the site will be the property owner’s responsibility. For more information or questions regarding the project, please contact the City of Salem’s Public Works Director Steve Paine at 573-729-4811. 

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to inform the public of upcoming changes to the driver license testing process. In preparation for the transition, driver examination stations throughout the state will close at 12 noon on Thursday, November 7, and all-day November 8. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, November 12, following the Veterans Day holiday. Driver examination testing facilities will be closed due to converting to a modernized system, directly integrated into the Department of Revenue’s new driver license system. Follow this link for further information on the driver’s license system changes being implemented by the Missouri Department of Revenue MV-DL System Changes (mo.gov). As part of this upgrade, the Patrol will now offer the Class F written test in a total of 20 languages, which includes a newly created sign language video version of the test made possible by the Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. The new system will provide a direct digital reporting network to the Department of Revenue. The system will increase efficiency by sending test results directly to the Department of Revenue. The new system will also help deter driver license fraud. For more information, please visit our website at mshp.dps.mo.gov.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reports Missouri hunters harvested 15 black bears during the state’s fourth bear hunting season, October 21st-30th. More than 5,969 hunters applied during May for 400 permits for the season with the maximum total harvest being 40 bears. Of the 400 hunters selected through a random drawing of all applicants, 319 hunters purchased permits for the season. Bear hunting in Missouri is limited to Missouri residents and restricted to three designated areas of southern Missouri called Bear Management Zones (BMZ). Each permit issued is for a specific BMZ and hunting is limited to public or private property within the BMZ. Twelve bears were harvested in BMZ 1 out of a maximum of 20 with 166 hunters purchasing permits to hunt the zone. Three bears were harvested in BMZ 2 out of a maximum of 15 with 121 hunters purchasing permits to hunt the zone. No bears were harvested in BMZ 3 out of a maximum of five with 32 hunters purchasing permits to hunt the zone. Of the bears taken, 13 were harvested using firearms methods, one was harvested with archery equipment, and one was harvested with a crossbow. Ten of the harvested bears were males and five were females. MDC Furbearer Biologist Nate Bowersock said we had another successful black bear hunting season this year and despite the acorn crop potentially being above average, hunters were able to harvest a record number of bears. This could be due to the dryer fall conditions, which likely caused bears to move more often in search of water. Learn more about Missouri black bears and bear hunting in Missouri at mdc.mo.gov.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways last free guided hiking adventures this fall will be November 9th and it is open to the public. This will be the “Hike to Honor Veterans” which is a five-mile round trip to Stegall Mountain. The hike begins at 10:00 in the morning.  Hikers are advised to come prepared with appropriate gear, water, and snacks. For more information or details on meeting locations, call (573) 226-3945 or visit the park’s website.

The Salem Memorial Hospital Board of directors held their regular meeting last Tuesday evening at 6:30 in the Doctor’s Library. The Board approved the minutes from the last three meetings. Hospital CEO, Brooke Bollman gave her report, in which she stated she is working to complete the due diligence request from Phelps Health. She is seeking additional funding opportunities for the hospital, and working on the Cost Report Preparations. Ms. Bollman also presented the Summary of Operations and Statistics. For the month of September, the hospital saw a decrease in inpatient admissions, a slight decrease in outpatient registrations, and a decrease in ambulance runs, but an increase in Emergency Room visits, as compared to August. Total operating revenue for September was $2.8 million.  The 340B program had a net revenue of $36,772. Ms. Bollman stated the hospital is spending less in salaries and payroll, but they are expecting a 35.5% aggregate increase in health insurance premiums, when they renew in November. Total operating expenses for the month were $1.9 million, leaving a profit of about $880,000. She did clarify that the profit for this month went straight to accounts payable, so cash flow is still negative, though they are making improvements. Accounts payable is currently at $1.4 million, which is down significantly from February when the account was over $2 million. The board also voted to not change the banks where the hospital’s CD Investments are kept. The hospital hired two full time employees, but lost seven. The hospital is currently planning an Employee Benefits Fair for open enrollment this month. During the QAPI report, it was noted that the hospital’s medication process now uses the Pyxis Profiling and Medication Scanning. In the Quality Projects, there have been sixteen recorded documentation errors, and not medication errors, in the month of September, and 47 total incident reports between August 26th and September 30th. Organizations interested in applying for the ToRCH Grant must submit applications by December 12th. The Board approved the Foundation Bylaws and before adjourning to closed session, the Board updated the date and time of the next meeting to the evening of November 21st at 7:00. 

Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) Executive Director Bonnie Prigge, Planning Manager Anne Freand and Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) Meramec Area Engineer Preston Kramer will meet with Dent County commissioners and citizens to discuss transportation needs on the state system today at the Dent County Courthouse Commission meeting room at 400 N. Main in Salem. The meeting will start at 10:00 in the morning. The public is encouraged to attend this meeting and share concerns or needs about road and bridge as well as multimodal transportation needs such as bike, pedestrian, airports, transit, rail and port. MRPC and MoDOT will be meeting with all eight counties in the region. Each county is asked to select its top three or four needs to be prioritized with the other projects in the Meramec Region. If you cannot attend the meeting, please reach out to the MRPC at 573-265-2993 at any time to add a need to the list.

Despite this week’s mild temperatures, winter – and the snow, sleet and ice that come along with it – is just around the corner. To help Missourians prepare and stay safe during the winter months, the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and National Weather Service (NWS) are partnering to promote November 4th through the 8th as “Winter Weather Preparedness Week” in Missouri. SEMA and NWS Forecast Offices serving Missouri will be sharing winter weather safety messaging via social media throughout the week. Each day they will focus on a different theme starting Monday with Winter Weather Terminology, Ice Safety will be addressed on Tuesday, Wednesday will be Snow Safety while Thursday will be on Frostbite and Hypothermia, finishing up Friday with Planning for Snow, Ice and Cold. Road safety is also a concern during the winter months. According to preliminary results provided by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, there were more than 3,800 vehicle crashes in Missouri in 2023 during periods of snow, sleet, hail or ice, which resulted in 1,198 injuries and 22 deaths. Often, too little attention is paid to the danger posed by prolonged exposure to the cold. According to the Department of Health and Senior Services, 37 people died in Missouri as a result of low body temperatures due to prolonged exposure to cold weather in 2023. Listen to KSMO Radio or check out Your World Today this week during “Winter Weather Preparedness Week” for tips on how you can be ready for winter. 

Chiefs fans! The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks invites you to make a life-saving touchdown for local patients. Join them at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall at 201 North McArthur from Noon today until 6:00 in the evening. All successful donors will receive an all-new Kansas City Chiefs Kingdom T-shirt, while supplies last. Donors can also enter for a chance to win a game day package that includes two tickets and a parking pass to Kansas City’s December 21, 2024, game against the Houston Texans. Donors can schedule an appointment at cbco.org/donate-blood or calling 417-227-5006.

The Dent County Commissioners met for their regular meeting Thursday morning in the courthouse. In the road report, District One Commissioner Wes Mobray said brush would be cut on Dent County Road 5220, while a new crossover pipe will be installed on county road 5690 with rock added afterward. Mobray was also going to check out a report of concrete being dumped in the ditch line of Dent County Road 5150. District Two Commissioner Gary Polk said maintenance was being done on dump truck #122 and workers were going to pick up county truck #116 from Knapheide after repairs had been made. Polk said rip-rap would be put around some culverts on Dent County Road 4283. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson congratulated KSMO General Manager Stan Podorski on receiving the Eugene E. Northern Award and Bryce Mobray on receiving an Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award last Thursday night at the MRPC Annual Awards Dinner and Banquet since he missed the last meeting. He also said the MRPC and MoDOT would be at the next commission meeting Monday at 10:00 to discuss road priorities. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said the county set a new daily record for absentee voting Tuesday with 225 people voting with another 191 voting on Wednesday. She said the county has already had over 1,600 people vote absentee for this election. Curley said  the“no excuse” absentee voting continues at the courthouse and the last day to absentee vote will be Monday, November 4th from 8:00 in the morning until 5:00 in the afternoon at the courthouse. Curley said her office will be open Saturday from 8:00 in the morning until 12:00 noon for absentee voting. If you need to make changes to your voter registration such as a name or address change, please do that as soon as possible so that it will be completed before you go to vote. On Tuesday, November 5th, the polls will be open from 6:00 in the morning until 7:00, and you MUST vote at your polling location, not the courthouse. Bring a photo ID with you when you vote and no electioneering is allowed which means you cannot wear a candidate’s cap, button, T-Shirt, bring candidate literature, etc to the polling location or to the courthouse. The same criteria goes for any issue on the ballot as well. The next meeting of the commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

Healthy Dent County will be having their Sixth Annual Casino Night Fundraiser Saturday, November 2nd at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory with a “Disco” theme. Doors will open that Saturday evening at 5:30 with the gaming beginning at 6:30 and lasting until 9:00. The event features game tables much like the ones you will find in a real casino, as well as a number of professional dealers to run the games. Traditional games such as craps, roulette and blackjack are available as well as two poker tables. Food and a cash bar will also be available. The video simulated horse races created by KSMO Media will return this year as well. Winners of these races will receive special tickets for a drawing to win a five-day, two-bedroom Florida vacation in Orlando at Tuscany Village in May. At the end of the evening, prizes are drawn after exchanging gaming money for tickets. Some of those prizes include a $300 Visa gift card; Blackstone Griddle; a three-day Branson Trip, Dewalt Tools, Outdoor Furniture, Fire Pit, 3-piece Suitcase set, Adult Tricycle, Propane Gift Certificate, Treadmill, Charcoal, and more. Tickets are available for $50 per person of $85 per couple. Event ticket holders will receive $10,000 in “gaming” money to play the casino games of their choice throughout the evening. Guests are asked to come dressed in their best disco attire and receive an extra $1,000 in gaming money. At the end of the evening, prizes are drawn after exchanging gaming money for tickets. The event would not be possible without many local businesses sponsoring the event with American Family Insurance agent Jonah Schafer being the main event sponsor. Casino Night tickets are available at Salem Community Center @ the Armory at 1200 West Rolla Road. For more information, please call 729-8163.

Healthy Dent County is pleased to announce that “Spin” access is now included in the Healthy Dent County Fitness Center membership! It is no longer an additional fee. All members have access to our “spin” room for an individual cardio workout or a class. Join them at the Healthy Dent County Fitness Center, inside the Salem Community Center @ the Armory, where members have access to a fully equipped cardio and weight room, as well as a full-court gymnasium where you can play pickleball, basketball, and volleyball! If you’re a Renew Active or Silver Sneakers member, enjoy a free membership! For questions or membership rates, please give us a call at 573-739-1127 or email lanessa@salemcommunitycenter.org

Tuesday afternoon in a sentencing hearing in front of Judge Michael Randazzo in the 42nd Judicial Circuit Court in Dent County, former mayor and alderman of Salem, and former Dent County Fire Protection District fire chief Brad Nash, received a 15-year sentence ruling on each of two felony counts of second-degree child molestation on children less than 17-years of age and the offender greater than four years older which is an aggravated sexual offense. The two terms are to be served concurrently in the Missouri Department of Corrections. Nash had pled guilty on August 28th to the two felony counts. Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley released other reports on hearings held Tuesday. Those cases included James Hobson of Salem, who pled guilty to felony drawing or exhibiting of a firearm. Hobson’s probation for the unlawful use of a weapon was revoked and he was sentenced to serve 12-years in the Department of Corrections as requested by Prosecuting Attorney Curley. The defendant had previously served a 12-year RSMO Section 559.115 for the unlawful use of a weapon as a persistent felony offender. Monica Easton pled guilty to the possession of a controlled substance. Her probation was revoked, and she was sentenced to serve seven years in the Department of Corrections as recommended by Curley. Tenille Hobson of Bunker pled guilty to driving while being impaired and also driving with a revoked license for her involvement in a single vehicle crash in Dent County back in April. She was sentenced to serve eight years in the Department of Corrections as requested by the prosecutor. In the last case heard on Tuesday, Tommy Johnson of Salem, pled guilty on two counts of possession of a controlled substance, meth and fentanyl. He was sentenced to serve seven years under RSMO Section 217.362 as requested by Curley.

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, encourages everyone to have a safe Halloween. It’s that time of year when young ghosts, vampires, superheroes, and cartoon characters are planning their night of trick-or-treating. It’s imperative that drivers and pedestrians stay alert. Young children excited by Halloween could dart in front of a vehicle. Slow down and drive with extra caution. Expect an increase in the number of slow-moving vehicles in neighborhoods as motorists pick up and drop off trick-or-treaters. Please be courteous and stay alert for trick-or-treaters of all ages. Distracted drivers are dangerous drivers when you’re driving, keep your eyes on the road, not on your phone! Parents, please remind children to approach only familiar houses that are well-lit. Remind them they should never enter a stranger’s house or vehicle. Consider trick-or-treating with your children for their safety and because it’s a fun way to spend an evening. Give some thought to safety when choosing a costume. Consider using make-up rather than wearing a mask, which can obstruct a child’s vision making it difficult to see an oncoming car. A light-colored costume is easier for drivers to see at night and adding reflective tape to dark costumes makes them visible. Flame resistant costumes are encouraged. All trick-or-treaters are reminded to watch for traffic while they are out and about this Halloween. Remember to look both ways when crossing the street. Use sidewalks wherever possible and trick-or-treat while it is light outside. If you do go out after dark, increase your visibility by using a flashlight and wearing a light-colored costume. An adult should always accompany small children, and older children should stay in groups. Many adults enjoy dressing up and visiting haunted houses or attending gatherings of friends. If you are driving to a costume party, make sure your costume doesn’t hamper your vision. If you attend a Halloween party that includes alcohol, designate a sober driver for the trip home. Alcohol, even in small amounts, slows reaction time and dulls the senses. Driving after you’ve had alcohol could have a sad and possibly deadly result. Have a safe, happy Halloween!

The Dent County Fire Protection District will be handing out free hotdogs at the fire station tonight from 5:30 till 8:00 to everyone in the car! They will also have Ladder Truck 8012 on 4th Street for the 3rd Annual Dent County Trunk or Treat giving out candy. They can’t wait to see all the great costumes.

The Ozark National Scenic Riverways has announced deer hunting season dates and guidelines for the upcoming season. The annual firearms deer season runs November 16-26, with youth seasons set for November 2-3 and November 29-December 1. Alternative methods season will run December 28 to January 7. Dent County hunters should note two additional hunting opportunities. The county is included in the antlerless firearms season December 7-15, and will be open during the Chronic Wasting Disease season from November 27 to December 1. Hunting is permitted in most areas of the park except within 300 yards of developed zones, which include buildings, campgrounds, hiking trails, and public facilities. Hunters must wear orange clothing and follow all state regulations. Tree stands must be labeled with owner information and removed by February 15. Ground blinds are allowed but must be removed after each hunt. Superintendent Jason Lott reminds visitors that the park remains open to all during hunting season. To report wildlife violations, contact NPS Arrowhead Dispatch at 844-460-3604 or Operation Game Thief at 800-392-1111. For complete regulations, visit the Missouri Department of Conservation website.

The City of Salem will launch a city-wide fire hydrant maintenance program on Monday, November 4th, with all work, including painting, expected to be completed in December by Fire Hydrant Services and Repair out of Arkansas. The project will address all 290 hydrants across Salem, with a focus on ensuring optimal functionality and uniform appearance. Over the next month, crews will clear vegetation, replace bonnet seals, oil internal components, inspect outlet threads, and install reflective rings on each hydrant. Fire Hydrant Services and Repair will be documenting each hydrant’s condition, including any leaks, damage, or worn parts, which will help the City proactively address issues moving forward. The Dent County Fire Department has endorsed the use of safety yellow paint for all public hydrant barrels, in alignment with NFPA 291 recommendations. This safety yellow color is designed for visibility and rapid identification, particularly at night, further enhancing each hydrant’s visibility. Water valves for the hydrants will also be painted in the same safety yellow color to maintain consistency. The City of Salem is proud to be taking proactive steps to maintain and beautify our infrastructure in the interest of public safety and aesthetics. For more information, please contact the City of Salem at (573) 729-4811.

For the eighth year, the Missouri Department of Transportation and the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety, along with various safety partners, schools and businesses throughout the state, are encouraging better driving behaviors as part of the annual “Buckle Up – Phone Down” Day today. The day challenges all drivers to do the two most important steps while driving to reduce your risk of a fatal crash. The goal of BUPD Day is to have zero traffic fatalities on Missouri roads throughout the day. To date in 2024, of the more than 740 fatalities in Missouri, 63% of vehicle occupants killed were unbuckled. Distracted driving is also a leading cause of crashes in Missouri. In 2023, distracted driving was cited in crashes that claimed 106 lives. In August of 2023, the Siddens-Bening Hands-Free Law took effect in Missouri, prohibiting all drivers from using a handheld electronic communication device while driving. The law aims to address distracted driving, which contributed to crashes that claimed the lives of more than 800 people across the state during the last decade. Paired with the requirement to wear a seat belt, the enactment of the hands-free legislation means BUPD is officially law in Missouri. Additionally, the Missouri State Highway Patrol has been educating drivers on the new law for the past year, and law enforcement agencies throughout the state will begin writing citations for driving distracted beginning January 1, 2025. Drivers can accept the challenge to BUPD at modot.org/bupd.

The 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat is in the works and the committee is looking for amazing organizations and businesses to participate. Some ways you can contribute is by handing out candy on 4th street Halloween evening this Thursday from 6:00 until 8:00. If you are unable to hand out candy due to personnel, time, or wanting to attend with your children donations of prepackaged candy or monetary contributions to purchase more candy is being excepted. As a community, we can help keep our children safe with a blocked off section of 4th street between MacArther and Main Streets. For more information, please contact Deputy Derrick Marfitt at dmarfitt@dentcountysheriff.org or Patrolman John Brown at jmbrown@salemmo.com.

The Missouri Department of Conservation has announced important changes to fall turkey hunting regulations. Hunters must now purchase a new fall turkey permit, regardless of whether they’re using firearms or archery. This permit is separate from the archery deer-hunting permit. The combined harvest limit for fall turkey hunting has been reduced from four to two birds of either sex. In the Ozark Region, the average fall turkey harvest over the past five years has been 597 turkeys, with 55% to 75% being hens. For deer hunters, the antler-point restriction has been removed for counties within the Chronic Wasting Disease Management Zone, affecting 13 counties including Phelps. MDC Protection Captain Gerald Smith reminds hunters to purchase permits before hunting, properly notch permits immediately after harvesting an animal, and check deer or turkey by 10 p.m. on the day of harvest. Notching can be done on paper permitsor through the MO Hunting mobile app, even without cell service. The archery turkey season runs through November 15, reopens November 27, and continues until January 15, 2025. Fall firearms turkey hunting is now through October 31st in open counties. For more information, hunters can visit the MDC website.

University of Missouri Extension website lists numerous apps to help in decision-making on the farm, says MU Extension agricultural engineering specialist Charles Ellis. Ellis says these apps can help you make objective decisions to better manage your crops and livestock. By entering information from your farm, you can get answers specific to your operation. MU Extension has a large list of helpful apps on their website. Another comprehensive app website is AgPhD. It contains a planting population calculator, spray tip guides and apps on fertilizer removal and corn and soybean diseases, among others. Find it at agphd.com/agphdmobileapps.

The Missouri Department of Conservation’s George O. White State Forest Nursery, just north of Licking, is now taking orders for native tree and shrub seedlings. These low-cost seedlings can improve wildlife habitat, soil and water conservation, and property value. Available species include pine, oak, walnut, maple, redbud, elderberry, and many others. Seedlings are sold in bundles of 10 or increments of 25, with prices ranging from 40 cents to $1.17 per seedling. Orders can be placed now through April 15, 2025. Early ordering is recommended for best selection. Seedlings will be available for shipping or pickup from February through May. To order or for more information, visit mdc.mo.gov/trees-plants/tree-seedlings.