Local News

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports three people died in traffic crashes during this year’s Thanksgiving holiday counting period–from 6:00 Wednesday evening, November 26th, through 11:59 pm, Sunday, November 30th. There were no boating crashes or drownings. During the Thanksgiving holiday counting period, troopers investigated 304 traffic crashes with 82 injuries and 3 fatalities. The Highway Patrol made 87 DWI arrests. During the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday counting period, troopers investigated 462 traffic crashes, which included six fatalities and 158 injuries. Statewide, 11 people died and 571 people were injured in 1,664 traffic crashes over last year’s Thanksgiving holiday. Troopers arrested 106 people for driving while intoxicated during the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday counting period. The statistics in this news release are preliminary and subject to change if late deaths occur, or if other agencies report traffic crashes after this news release is published. Follow the Missouri State Highway Patrol on X @MSHPTrooperGHQ

Fourteen state parks will be temporarily closed to the public for managed deer hunts to safely and effectively manage the parks’ deer population. The hunts are a coordinated effort between the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Division of State Parks and the Missouri Department of Conservation. Only one of the state parks in our immediate area affected is Montauk State Park at 345 County Road 6670 in Salem. They are currently closed for a managed hunt until opening to the public again on Friday, December 5th. Guests are encouraged to not visit the parks on those days, as they will be turned away for their safety. Missouri state parks are usually wildlife refuges where hunting is not permitted. However, when an overpopulation of deer develops, the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Conservation hold special managed hunts to prevent harm to the ecosystem. This year, studies at the parks determined the deer population showed an overcrowded number of deer per acre. The managed hunt will help other wildlife and the ecosystem by reducing the number of deer in the area. The Missouri Department of Conservation has already selected hunters for these hunts.

The City of Salem and the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce announced signups for their Holiday Lighting Contest are now being accepted. The contest is designed to spark community spirit, brighten our neighborhoods and business districts, and celebrate the magic of the holiday season. The contest is open to all residential properties as well as commercial storefronts within the city limits. Each category will be judges spertately. Residents and businesses that are located outside the city are also welcome to participate and will be featured on the Christmas Light Map; however, only participants with a City of Salem electric account are eligible to win electric bill credits. First Place will be $100 worth of electric credits; 2nd Place is a $50 electric credit and 3rd Place is a $25 electric credit. All decorations will need to be in place by Friday, December 5th, and remain in place through at least Christmas Day. Winners in each category will be announced on December 26th. Judging will be based on creativity, originality, holiday spirit and overall presentation. People can register their home or business at the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Office at 1136 South main Street in the Crossroads, or at the City of Salem Administrative Offices Building at the utility office. A physical address is necessary on the application for judging as well as your city utility number should you be a winner. For more information, call Catherine at the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Office at 573-729-6900. Applications for both categories need to be submitted by Thursday, December 4th.

Yesterday, Your World Today reported on an approved COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) the Dent County Salary Commission approved in November. For clarification this vote was not unanimous. A 10-1 vote saw all attending members of the commission approve the COLA increase with the exception of Alisa Brookshire and per her request as a member of the commission we’d like to document that vote accordingly. For more information regarding the meeting minutes or the COLA increase you can contact the Dent County Clerk’s office at 573-729-4144.

An accident occurred Sunday evening at 8:15 in Phelps County on Highway F 1.5 miles east of Highway 72. According to the Highway Patrol report an eastbound 2014 Ford F150 driven by a 20-year-old Salem male traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck a group of small trees. The Ford continued traveling through a yard, struck a residence and overturned. The driver suffered minor injuries, while a 17-year-old Salem female passenger suffered moderate injuries. Both were taken by Phelps Health Ambulance to Phelps Health Hospital. The report stated that the male driver was not wearing a safety restraint, while the female passenger was. The Ford was totaled and removed from the scene by D&D Towing.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said brush would be cut in the Bunker area and work crews will be out checking for clogged culverts and crossover pipes. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams was not in attendance due to a prior engagement, so road supervisor Travis Turner gave the road report. He said brush was being cut on Dent County Roads 2160, 3220 and 3230. Turner also indicated crews were getting county truck #72 ready for winter conditions by installing the salt spreader. He went on to state that crews were also gathering wood for the furnace at the road and bridge shed. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said the commission attended the Missouri Association of Counties meeting last week where MAC priorities were established for the next year, plus the county heard from MAC Attorney Travis Elliott. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley was re-elected to the MAC Board representing the 16th District. She stated some priorities for 2026 were going to be about property taxes, community development, justice and mental health as well as transportation and communication just to name a few. The commission then approved the agreement to pay their share of the cost of the public defender’s office rent with Russell Land Development Company along with six other counties at 901 North Pine Street in Rolla. The agreement was for two years. At the last meeting, Brad Smith from Omega Concrete Solutions came in to discuss sidewalk penetration sealant protection for the new sidewalks that will be installed around the courthouse in 2026. The cost for the protection is 65 cents per square foot. The commission likes the idea but will check into it further before deciding on it. Also, Emergency Management Director Derrick Marfitt came in to update the commission on the county generator, and everything has been taken care of. The next meeting of the commission will be Thursday morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting will be open to the public.

Salem R-80 Superintendent Nathan Wills has posted on the Salem R80’s social media, that the school district is hosting a board member workshop this afternoon at 5:30 in the Central Office. During the workshop you will learn about the requirements and responsibilities of a school board member followed up with a Q&A session. The Central Office is located at 1409 West Rolla Road. For more information you can contact the office at (573) 729-6642.

The Dent County Salary Commission met Thursday afternoon, November 20th at the Judicial Building. Dent County elected officials at the meeting included Angie Curley, Denita Williams, Shannon VanKirk, Gary Larson, Cindy Ard, Alisa Brookshire, Andrew Curley, Ben Pursifull, Sherida Cook, Keith Green and Jimmy Williams. Sheriff Bob Wells was unable to attend. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson was elected chairman of the meeting. The financial report provided by Treasurer Denita Williams showed the total funds from the major accounts of the county came to $9,553,782.02 and the commission accept the report. Currently, the county is at 100% of the assessed valuation salary by state statute for all office holders and the salary commission voted for it to remain at 100%. The commission then discussed cost-of-living increases. The commission approved a COLA increase of up to 4% to become effective January 1st, 2026, and be applied uniformly across the board for everyone, and for the future with the determinations authorized by the commission during the budget process. The commission also discussed SB1 which allows all coroners to get an additional $14,000 in salary which would take effect January of 2029. The commission approved increasing the county coroner’s salary by $14,000 beginning January 1st, 2029. The salary commission meeting was then adjourned.

On Wednesday, Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced that her Office, appointed by Judge Privette as special prosecutor, has filed criminal charges in Shannon County against three members of the Shannon County Sheriff’s Office: Deputy Thomas R. Manning, former sheriff’s deputy John D. “J.D.” Melvin, and Captain Michael G. McCoy, following allegations of abuse and exploitation committed under the guise of law enforcement authority. The alleged conduct occurred between January 1st and July 29th this year while the individuals were acting in their official capacities as law enforcement officers. The Missouri State Highway Patrol conducted an investigation. The allegations outline repeated instances in which women stopped during traffic encounters were subjected to inappropriate touching and degrading sexual comments. The charging documents further allege that McCoy and Melvin engaged in forgery involving official court documents, including the alleged falsification or transfer of a probable cause statement intended to influence judicial proceedings. Deputy Thomas R. Manning faces seven counts of Sexual Misconduct in the Course of Public Duty, two counts of 1st degree Sexual Abuse, three counts of Harassment 1st degree, and one count of Sodomy or Attempted Sodomy 1st degree. His bond has been set at $50,000. Captain Michael G. McCoy has been charged with one count of Sexual Misconduct in the Course of Public Duty and one count of Forgery, with bond set at $15,000. Former Deputy John D. “J.D.” Melvin has been charged with one count of Forgery, and his bond has also been set at $15,000. Hanaway states the people of Shannon County deserve justice and accountability and her office will pursue the truth and ensure that anyone who abuses their position is held responsible. The Attorney General’s Office emphasizes that law enforcement is a high calling, one that requires integrity, restraint, and compassion. The Attorney General reminds the public that the charges against the defendants are merely allegations. As in all criminal cases, the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

An accident happened in Maries County Tuesday evening at 11:35 on Highway 63 about a half mile south of Route P that left a man from Licking with serious injuries. According to the highway patrol report, a 60-year-old man from Licking was driving a 2005 Ford Escape northbound when he failed to negotiate a curve and traveled off the right side of the road. The Ford Escape then overturned. The man was taken by Air Evac to the University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia. He was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Ford Escape was totaled and removed by Ron Dishman’s Towing. The highway patrol was assisted by the Maries County Sheriff’s Department, St. James Ambulance District and Vichy Volunteer Fire Department.

Quick reminder, entry forms for the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Parade of Lights are due today at noon. For more info call 573-729-6900.

The next edition of Your World Today will be available on Monday, December 1st. From all of us at Your World Today we wish you and your family a very happy and safe Thanksgiving!

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen held its regular meeting Monday evening in the auditorium at 202 North Washington Street. After approving the agenda and consent agenda, the board appointed Kathryn Hill and Conrad Hake to the Salem Public Library Board of Trustees. The Aldermen also approved a bid from Forester Works in the amount of $112,861.16 for feeder line tree trimming. This phase of the project will cover seven miles of feeder line in the southwest quadrant of the city and includes limb trimming, tree removal, brush clearing, and lawn remediation to ensure utility lines remain clear, reliable, and safe. The Electrical Fund’s Capital Improvements budget currently has $69,500 remaining for tree trimming this fiscal year. The remaining $43,361.16 will be allocated in the next fiscal year beginning in July. During the reports of city officials, City Administrator Sally Burbridge highlighted her recent meeting with MMMPEP. Finance Director Stacy Houston presented the city’s financial report, and Economic Development Director Carrie Sutterfield updated the board on ongoing local projects. Sutterfield also reported on her attendance at the National Rural Economic Developers Association (NREDA) Conference in Tennessee, made possible in large part by her selection as one of four scholarship recipients. Mayor Greg Parker noted several upcoming community events. Public Works Director Steve Paine reported that the city’s utility crews continue to make progress on Phase 2A wastewater treatment plant upgrades and that the facility remains in good condition. Alderwoman Catherine Dent shared that she attended the ribbon cutting for the new Four Rivers Salem Clinic and announced that the Advocates for Animals, a subcommittee of the Community Involvement Committee, facilitated an agreement between Ozark Pet Rescue and DCAWS to assume operations of the former DCAWS facility, which will be renamed the Ozark Pet Rescue Charlotte White Center. Additional details will be provided at a later date. With no further reports, the meeting was adjourned. The next regular Alderman meeting is scheduled for December 9th in the auditorium, and is open to the public. 

The Salem Police Department has recently released their report for the month of October. The department responded to 23 accidents during the month. Officers responded to eight alarms sounding and addressed 75 animal calls, investigated six assaults or fights, performed 27 well-being checks and 12 area checks in October. Police investigated six domestic disputes, eight verbal disturbances conducted 80 follow-up investigations and provided 27 escorts. They investigated eight fraud reports, had six reports of found property, had two intoxicated pedestrian reports, three trespassing calls, two parking complaints and a property damage report. The Salem Police responded to eight juvenile problems, wrote seven stealing reports, responded to eight traffic complaints and assisted three motorists. Officers responded to a report of a suicidal person, 29 suspicious circumstance calls, five suspicious person calls, and four suspicious vehicle calls. The Salem Police in October investigated three reports of shots fired, two sex offense calls, and checked out an abandoned vehicle call. The Salem Police also investigated a missing persons report, three peace disturbance calls, a report of an overdose and a report of an open door. Officers attempted to serve four warrants and conducted 51 traffic stops during the month. The police responded to a total of 561 incidents in October with the average response time to calls being two minutes and 23 seconds. The average time spent on the scene was 23 minutes. If you have any information regarding an ongoing investigation, contact the Salem Police Department by calling their non-emergency phone number at (573) 729-6550 or speak with them in person at 500 N. Jackson Street in Salem.

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 the approval of the agenda and the consent agenda, public Comments will then be heard. The Salem Library Board of Trustees is asking for board approval for two new members to be added to replace S.N. Ball who resigned and Harold Hamilton who passed away. The two new members would be Kathryn Hill and Conrad Hake. The board will discuss the two bids received for the powerline tree trimming in town from Asplundh and Forester Works before the board hears reports from city officials. City Administrator Sally Burbridge will discuss the MPUA meeting held October 29th and Finance Director Stacey Houston will present the financial report to the board of aldermen. The board may then go into closed session to discuss personnel. The meeting tonight of the City of Salem Board of Aldermen is open to the public.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education held their regular meeting on Thursday evening, in the administration building. After approving the agenda and consent agenda, several students were recognized for exceptional reading achievements. Branden Piatt and Lisa Jones honored John Salyer, Rowan McGrail, Reece England, Emily Jones, Miley Jones, Savanna Sexton, and Shiann Sexton for leading the district’s Beanstack reading leaderboard. The board also received the annual district audit report from Ken Schultz of Schultz, Wood & Rapp, P.C. Superintendent Dr. Nathan Wills provided an update on district projects and initiatives, noting progress toward multiple CSIP goals. He recognized staff members Mystee Swank and Jody Heavin for their contributions and reported on ongoing repairs to the Upper Elementary roof and baseball dugouts. Dr. Wills also highlighted recent donations from the Licking VFW, including $1,000 each to the robotics team and FFA, and he announced the district’s award of $150,000 from the Volkswagen Trust to purchase a replacement bus. Board members were reminded of upcoming building visits from Board of Education members on December 11. The filing dates for school board candidates are from December 9–30, there will be an informational session for prospective board members scheduled for December 2. Administrators also reported that track surface and drainage improvements are underway. In new business, the board voted unanimously to set board filing dates, they approved a $115,000 bond pre-payment, and accepted the district’s audit report with noted corrections. Maggie Hogan was selected as the district’s nominee for the Belcher Scholarship. Personnel updates included the hiring of Bobby Jarvis as a W.L. Elementary custodian and Candita Mathes as a middle school personal aide, as well as resignations from Kayla Howard and Victor Snider. The board then entered executive session to discuss personnel and student matters before briefly returning to open session to adjourn the meeting. 

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors met Wednesday evening, November 19th at the fire station. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 with all members present. The consent agenda was approved followed by the monthly reimbursement report which showed a total of 17 calls for October and 236 total calls for the year. In old business the Fidelity (CTI) Tower Lease was tabled along with the decision on the rescue tools quotes. Policy and Procedures were reviewed and discussed. The decision was tabled to acquire further information. In new business the quotes for fire hoses was presented and discussed. The quote from Hoffcomp for $8,437.00 was approved. Quotes for Bailout Window for 2nd story training was presented and discussed. The $1,960.00 bid from Outlaw Fabrication, LLC, was approved. Quotes for Breach Training Door were presented and discussed. The $2,885.00 bid from Outlaw Fabrication was approved. The Christmas Party date was set for Saturday, December 13th at 6:00. Chief Dennis Floyd reported on the training that Greg Thies and Scott Montoya attended for Instructor Training. Floyd said it went well and was very good. He said the two new brush trucks have had decals applied, and the skid units are still being built for those trucks. Floyd said that Dent County Overhead Door has looked at the doors to the fire station and parts are on order. He also noted that all turnout gear has been received. The date for the next board meeting was set for December 9th at 6:00 at DCFPD. The board went in to closed session at 7:25 and returned to open session at 9:21. In closed session due to Chief Floyd retiring December 1st, the Board voted Derek Thomas, the current Assistant Chief, as the new Chief of the District and Derek Marfitt as the new Assistant Chief. With no further business the meeting was adjourned at 9:24.

On November 22, 2025, Patrolmen 114 and 118 of the Salem Police Department responded to the 1100 block of West Scenic Rivers Boulevard regarding a reported theft in progress. According to the department’s Facebook page, upon arrival, officers located and apprehended a suspect as he attempted to leave in his vehicle. Both responding officers possess advanced criminal interdiction training, and during the course of their investigation, they observed indicators suggesting additional criminal activity beyond the original incident. After the suspect declined to consent to a vehicle search, K9 Mid and Corporal 607 from the Dent County Sheriff’s Office were requested to assist. K9 Mid provided a positive alert for the presence of illegal narcotics. A subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of approximately 507 grams (1.18 pounds) of methamphetamine-laced marijuana, 67.4 grams of liquid methamphetamine, and additional drug paraphernalia. The suspect, identified as Randy Lindberg, was taken into custody and transported to the Dent County Jail pending formal charges. A probable cause statement was submitted to the Dent County Prosecutor’s Office for, Trafficking Drugs 1st Degree, Burglary 1st Degree, and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. The Salem Police Department extends its gratitude to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, K9 Mid, Missouri State Highway Patrol and Dent County Prosecutor’s Office for their crucial assistance and teamwork during this investigation.

Colonel Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, reminds everyone there will be an increase in traffic over the Thanksgiving holiday. The Thanksgiving holiday is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, with Wednesday and Sunday being the most heavily traveled times. Drivers should expect more traffic and the possibility of delays throughout the weekend. Regardless of traffic patterns, safety should remain a priority. The counting period for the 2025 Thanksgiving holiday weekend is from 6:00 Wednesday evening to 11:59 Sunday night, November 30th. Troopers will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E., which stands for Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort, enforcing all traffic laws, and by being available to assist the public. Over the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday counting period, 11 people were killed and 571 injured in 1,664 traffic crashes. If you plan to travel over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, be aware of work zones, obey all traffic laws, and make sure everyone in your vehicle is wearing a seat belt or secured in the appropriate child safety seat for their size and age. Remember: Missouri is a hands-free state, so put the phone down and buckle up. There is never a reason to speed, drive aggressively, or drive impaired. Drivers should also be aware of some ongoing road construction throughout the state. The Patrol suggests that travelers use the MoDOT Traveler Information Map to plan their travel days. The map provides up-to-date information such as road closures, delays, construction zones, and alternative routes. If being on or near the water is part of your Thanksgiving holiday weekend plans, remember that the water is becoming colder, and hypothermia is a concern. The body loses heat 25 times faster in water than in the air of the same temperature. The proper use of life jackets is imperative. The public is encouraged to call the Patrol’s Emergency Report Line 800-525-5555 or *55 on your cellular phone if they witness criminal activity, observe driving behavior that could cause a crash, or experience an emergency. These phone numbers are operational for both highway and water emergencies. 

The Missouri State Parks, in partnership with the University of Missouri, is gathering feedback to better understand how our parks and historic sites bring value to visitors and local communities. Anyone who has visited one of Missouri’s 93 state park or historic sites in the past 12 months is encouraged to take the 5-minute survey. Responses are completely anonymous and will help improve visitor experiences while strengthening communities across the state. This essential feedback will help Missouri State Parks better understand the true economic and social value our parks bring to visitors and local communities. At first glance,survey takers may feel the questions are out of place, with the first question asking the respondent if they most recently visited the Katy Trail State Park or another park or site. However, the survey was carefully designed to serve two purposes: It will provide a Katy Trail-specific report and a system-wide analysis of all Missouri state parks, historic sites and trails. That particular question will help separate data for two reports. The survey was designed by a collaborative University of Missouri research team from the School of Natural Resources, the Division of Applied Social Sciences and the Assessment Center. To take the survey, visit mizzou.us/mo-state-parks. The survey, funded by a grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, will close November 30th. 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.

An accident happened in Dent County Wednesday evening at 5:45 on Dent County Road 2050 about a mile west of Dent County Road 2055 that took the life of a man from Rolla. According to the highway patrol report, a 2008 Polaris being driven westbound by a 28-year-old Rolla man, traveled off the left side of the roadway and the driver overcorrected. The Polaris then returned to the roadway and overturned, ejecting the man from the Polaris. The Rolla man was pronounced dead at the scene by Dent County Coroner Ben Pursifull at 6:40 Wednesday evening. His body was taken to the Dent County Morgue by the coroner. The driver was not wearing safety equipment at the time of the accident. The Polaris sustained moderate damage and was removed from the scene by the owner of the vehicle.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams presented the CART tax money received in November. She said the county received $93,591.45 which is up from November of 2024 by $11,449.28. Year-to-date, the CART tax is up $73,570.55 over 2024 which is an increase of about 8.3%. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green stated crews were doing maintenance as well as training a new employee on the backhoe and possibly on a grader. They will also be out checking roads from the storms Tuesday morning and Thursday morning. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams said workers would be cutting brush on county road 2160 and in the Lennox area. Williams said maintenance will be done on county tractor #6 as well. Dent County Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said he attended the tourism tax committee meeting Monday where one application and two reimbursements were approved. Larson said the tourism tax fund still has money available to help market special events in Dent County provided people submit a request that follows the committee’s guidelines. Larson also reported on the MRCF meeting he attended where they funded the Phelps County Disaster Relief Fund and other fund applications, scholarships and they also discussed general information. He also said there will be no commission meetings next week due to the MAC meeting the commission will be attending Monday and the Thanksgiving Holiday. The courthouse will be closed both Thursday and Friday, November 27th and 28th. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley stated her office is working on the county budget for 2026. The commission will be putting out for bid the construction of a new ADA accessible bathroom in the courthouse. Bids will be due by 10:00 in the morning, December 22nd, at which time they will be opened. For more information, contact the commission. Commissioner Larson also announced there will be an opening for a janitor at the courthouse after Christmas. At the last meeting, the commissioners agreed to sell a 1998 Pup Trailer and a 2006 Ford 450 Truck from the Road and Bridge Department on Purple Wave, and anyone can bid on those items. The deadline will be announced later. The commission also agreed to add a county policy requiring people to disclose or acknowledge that they will be video recording or audio recording the commission meetings. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday morning, December 1st, at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public. 

MoDot has plans for general highway maintenance and construction work in the mid–Missouri area that is ongoing through the 23rd. Weather conditions may postpone scheduled work. Many projects will include lane closures which could cause delays.  There will be moving operations such as pothole patching, mowing, and pavement repairs continuing in various locations. Motorists should travel with care and be alert for slow-moving equipment. In Dent County Missouri Routes 19, B, K, and N have culvert replacements planned to be completed later today. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zones. All work is weather permitting, and schedules are subject to change. 
A “Taste of the Masters” painting class will be held on Sunday, November 23rd from 3:00 until 5:00 with art teacher Beth Rosenkoetter at the creative Arts Center. This is a monthly class where you will paint and learn a little about impressionism and expressionism, learn techniques and and work on your own skill and style. This month’s class will look at ways to paint water, working from selected photos of nature to emulate the masters work in our own studies of color, tint, shadow, balance, and form. This class is for those 16 years of age and older, and at least four people need to sign up to hold the class. It will be limited to no more than 10 attendees. The cost of class is $45 and all supplies are included. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center. For more information, e-mail salemartscenter@salemcommunitybetterment.com.

An accident happened in Dent County Tuesday night at 6:00 on Dent County Road 4110 at Dent County Road 4120. According to the highway patrol report, a 2017 CF MOTO 300 NK driven southbound, struck an animal in the road and the driver, a 31-year-old Salem male, was ejected from the MOTO. The man suffered serious injuries and was transported to the Salem Memorial Hospital by the Salem Ambulance. The man was wearing safety equipment at the time of the accident. The MOTO sustained extensive damage and was taken from the scene by a private party.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will be meeting tonight at 5:00 in the R-80 Board Room. After the Call to Order and the Pledge of Allegiance the Board will approve the agenda and the consent agenda. Ken Schultz will present the audit report. William Lynch Elementary students will receive recognition. In the Superintendent’s Report CSIP Goals will be addressed in all reports. Administration reports will be heard from William Lynch, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, Athletics and Activities, Special Education, Technology, and Maintenance. In new business, the Board is to set Board Election filing dates for December 9th though 30th, approve MSBA Policy Updates, approve Bond Pre-payment, approve Audit Report, and select Belcher Scholarship nominee. No Transfers or Hires are to be considered, but Resignations/Retirements are scheduled to be considered for Kayla Howard, High School Aide, and Victor Snider, Bus Driver. The Board will enter closed session to discuss personnel and student issues, followed by adjournment after returning to open session. The regular meeting of the Salem R80 Board of Education is open to the public.

The Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors held its regular meeting Tuesday evening in the Hospital Library. Chief Executive Officer Brooke Bollman reported that she recently attended the Missouri Independent Hospital Network meeting and is completing the annual compliance and infection prevention training. She also announced that the hospital’s mammography team raised $5,500 through its annual fundraiser and that updates have been made to the hospital’s discount and co-pay policies. Bollman added that she has been participating in health insurance and 340B optimization meetings with the goal of reducing premiums for both staff and the hospital. She also highlighted several community partnership activities, noting that representatives from the University of Missouri recently toured the facility and that hospital staff decorated a tree for the Trees and Trains exhibit at the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center. The hospital is currently hosting a food drive for the month of November, and Long Term Care will hold its Thanksgiving dinner this evening. During the financial report, Bollman stated that October saw 46 inpatient admissions and 1,094 outpatient registrations, both slightly lower than the previous month. Emergency room visits held steady at 633, and ambulance runs remained consistent at 201. October also marked the first month in which no patient left the hospital against medical advice. Total operating revenue for the month was approximately $2.5 million. The hospital recorded an increase of nearly $200,000 in acute inpatient revenue, totaling about $470,000, along with an $89,000 increase in swing bed revenue, totaling $126,000. Additionally, the hospital received $30,000 in grant funding from Aetna for the Practicing Excellence program. Total operating expenses for October were $2.2 million, resulting in a net profit of $390,000. The hospital currently maintains 25 days of cash on hand, and 340B net revenue for the month was $34,308. Chief Nursing Officer Amber Hogan reported one open paramedic position and noted that Med-Surg nurses are working toward Pediatric Advanced Life Support certification. She also stated that the Care Spectrum was approved at the most recent medical staff meeting. Kendra Mobray delivered the human resources and quality improvement reports, noting four new full-time hires and the resignation of four PRN students. Under new business, the board approved policies and procedures from several departments, including Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation, Radiology, General Nursing, Dietary, and Quality Improvement/Risk Management. The board also approved new privileges for Dr. Charles Featherly, D.O. The meeting adjourned to executive session for legal and personnel discussions.

Create a Biscornu Pincushion on Saturday, November 22nd from `10:00 in the morning until noon with M. Emilia Barbosa at the Creative Arts Center. Come make a fun-shaped pincushion named in French because it means “odd,” “quirky”, and “irregular,” so totally out of the ordinary! The class will explore three forms of stuffing pincushions with either traditional ground walnut shells, poly fill, or leftover pieces of yarn and fabric. After assembling the biscornus, buttons will be sewn parallel on each middle center on both sides and tug to make it sturdier. All ages welcome but children must have a parent or legal guardian present. The cost of the class is $35 and that includes all supplies. At least three people need to register and the class will be maxed out at 15 students. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center. For more information, e-mail salemartscenter@salemcommunitybetterment.com

Dent County Recorder Cindy Ard wants people to be aware of a new website where you can sign up to find out if someone is recording a document or changing a recorded document with your name on it. The website is www.deedwatch.com and once signed up, you would receive an e-mail letting you know if a document is recorded with your name on it. There is no charge for this service. This service is provided by the Dent County Recorder’s Office to prevent anyone from being scammed out of their property. For more information contact Cindy Ard at the Dent County Recorders Office at 573-729-2198. You can also e-mail her at dcrecorder07@gmail.com.

On November 18th, Sheriff Bob Wells and Prosecutor Andrew M. Curley presented a check for the sum of $495.00 to Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams to be placed into the general revenue fund for Dent County. The money is the result of efforts by law enforcement involving the seizure of firearms and prosecution of Timothy A. Burnham, II, for an arrest that occurred on November 26th, 2024, involving unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. In addition to the criminal conviction, the seizure is authorized by Missouri law as a punishment and deterrent to persons that commit a criminal offense. This money will be used for the benefit of Dent County Government. 

The Salvation Army will once again partner with Wal-Mart for the annual Angel Tree program as well as the Dent County Toy Drive to help local children this Christmas. Local residents have always enjoyed adopting a child, and shopping for clothing, coats, hats, and toys. Some families use this time of year to teach their children the importance of giving during the holiday season. The Angel Tree will be available beginning Wednesday, November 26th, through Saturday, December 20th. Sign-ups for families wanting to participate in the Angel Tree and the Dent County Toy Drive will be held in the afternoon on Monday, November 24th and Monday, December 1st at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory from 3:30 to 5:30. This program is for children from birth to 12 years of age. Parents must bring proof of child’s age and proof of residency (utility bill, birth certificate, report card). They must also know the interests of each child and clothing and shoe sizes. The Salvation Army Dent County Service Unit office hours are Monday thru Friday from 9 in the morning to 4 in the afternoon and is located in the Salem Community Center @ the Armory, 1200 W. Rolla Road, Salem, MO 65560. For additional information please call 573-729-8163 or e-mail sherry@salemcommunitycenter.org. The Dent County Toy Drive can be messaged directly on FaceBook as well.

Hay and cattle producers are encouraged to join an online workshop today from 11:30 this morning to 1:30 in the afternoon. You’ll learn practical, research-based strategies to tackle hay shortages and enhance forage quality. This program is tailored to equip producers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions regarding sub optimal hay. By grasping the nutritional and economic impacts, you can ensure the health and productivity of your herd, even in challenging circumstances. The Webinar highlights include the economic analysis, comparison of baling hay versus purchasing it, addressing the nutritional strategies for late-cut or low-quality hay, providing supplements to optimize hay utilization, and using techniques to improve forage quality and soil health. To secure your spot go online to https://brnw.ch/21wXuYq
On October 12, 2025, Patrolman #118 of the Salem Police Department initiated an investigation into a reported burglary in the 1100 block of West Scenic Rivers Boulevard. After conducting a thorough review of the case and available evidence, Patrolman #118 identified a suspect, Camron Roman. A probable cause statement was subsequently submitted to the Dent County Prosecutor’s Office. Following this submission, Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Curley filed a felony complaint in the Circuit Court of Dent County. The Honorable Judge Kelsaw issued a warrant for Roman’s arrest, setting bond at $5,000 cash or surety for the charges of Burglary, 1st Degree and Stealing. On November 13, 2025, Chief #100, along with Patrolmen #114 and #133, located and apprehended Roman in the 100 block of South Jackson. He was transported to the Dent County Jail, where he is currently being held on the warrant. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Creative Arts Center will host a Winter Front Porch Rug class on Friday evening, November 21st from 6:00 to 8:00  with Danielle Norris. Come design and paint your very own front porch rug! They will have stencils and some pre-cut designs, or bring your own idea and go freestyle! Bring a beverage and snack and enjoy a fun evening out! The cost of the class is $30 with all supplies provided. At least six people will need to sign up for the class and it will be limited to 22 attendees. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center. For more information, e-mail salemartscenter@salemcommunitybetterment.com

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse. A.J. Seay was in attendance to announce that he would be filing to run for the Dent County Presiding Commissioner Position on February 24th, the first day to file for a county office. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said grading would be done on Dent County Roads 5610 and 5615, while brush would be cut on county road 6255. He indicated crews would be doing odds and ends around the maintenance shop and will also be putting in a pipe on Iron Mountain Road. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported brush will be cut on county road 6150 while other crew members will be stockpiling rock at the maintenance shed. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said he attended the MRPC Housing Authority Board meeting last Thursday and he stated in the Meramec Region itself, there are 308 people waiting for housing assistance and 25 of those people are from Dent County. Larson reported at the External Relations Committee meeting the results of the survey from attendees at this year’s banquet at the Salem Community Center@The Armory all came back either with a good or excellent rating. He wanted to thank Healthy Dent County Executive Director Sherry Lea for applying for the event to be held in Salem this year and send congratulations from the External Relations Committee to her and her staff for putting on this great event. He stated at the MRPC meeting, the group heard about the Small Business Development Center on the campus of Missouri S&T and how they can help small or new businesses grow. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reiterated the first day that candidates can file for the April 7th Municipal Election will begin December 9th and the last day to file this year will be December 30th. All people interested in running in the April election will need to sign up at the entity you are choosing to run for such as a school district, hospital board, alderman, etc. Curley said if you need more information about the position you want to run for, you need to contact the entity directly for their unique requirements to hold that particular office. At the last meeting, the commissioners talked with Emergency Management Director Derek Marfitt about the agreement for emergency management services through the sheriff’s department. The commissioners have a prepared a contract that has been sent to Attorney Travis Elliott for his review before acting on the agreement. Also, the commissioners will be at a Missouri Association of County Board meeting Monday and there will be no commissioner meeting on Monday, November 24th or Thanksgiving Day, November 27th. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

City of Salem Police Chief Joe Chase reports the emergency storm siren project is now complete. This marked the end of a two-year effort to upgrade and improve the emergency warning sirens for the city. The installation was completed by Table Rock Alerting Systems. They provided the lowest bid for the equipment requested. The new system has an indefinite lifespan on the sirens themselves, as they are able to be repaired for years to come. There were momentary tests conducted last week to make sure the system was functioning properly. The new system has state of the art controlling systems and can be activated remotely via a phone app by an authorized user. The system can also be integrated with the National Weather Service to sound automatically when they announce a tornado warning for the city of Salem. The City of Salem is glad to have this project completed and look forward to the added safety the sirens will provide. 

The City of St. James has announced that Amazon plans to expand its operational investments in Missouri with the construction of an 80,000 square-foot delivery station at 925 North Jefferson Street in St. James. This will increase delivery speeds for customers in Phelps County and surrounding areas, and is part of the company’s $4 billion investment to expand its delivery network in rural communities across the country. Delivery stations power the last mile of Amazon’s order process and help speed up deliveries. Packages are shipped to a delivery station from neighboring Amazon Fulfillment and Sortation Centers, loaded into delivery vehicles, and delivered to customers. This facility in St. James is expected to create approximately 100 jobs once open, in addition to more driving opportunities through the Delivery Service Partner (DSP) and Amazon Flex programs. These will join the more than 9,500 Amazon employees throughout the state of Missouri. Construction is scheduled to begin in the coming weeks with launch plans for this delivery station in the very early stages with an expected opening later in 2026. Employees at Amazon’s U.S. customer fulfilment and transportation employees earn an average across the country of $23 per hour and starting wages for the St. James facility will be determined closer to launch. 

A Self Defense Workshop will be held at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory tomorrow evening, from 5:30 until 7:00 and Saturday morning, November 22nd from 10:00 until 11:30. The Saturday class is a repeat of the Wednesday one. The instructor is Kris Bieker and the cost is $5.00 and participants pay at the door. The class is open to men, women, and seniors and no fitness level is required. No experience is required to learn simple techniques that anyone can do. Participants will learn to build awareness to avoid danger before it starts, plus safety tips for home, shopping, and daily activities. Self-defense isn’t about fighting, it’s about feeling safe and walking with confidence. Call for more information at 573-729-8163.