Local News

Tuesday in Crawford County in front of Judge Kelly Parker, a sentencing hearing was held for Roberto Herrera of Boss. Herrera had pled guilty in March of this year for statutory sodomy in the 1st degree with a child under the age of 12. Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley sought 25 years in the Department of Corrections for the felony charge while the defense sought 15 years. Judge Parker ruled in favor of the state and sentenced Herrera to 25 years in the Department of Corrections beginning Tuesday, June 11th.

Don’t take a vacation from safety! In 2018, there were 307 fatalities on Missouri roads in the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The Missouri Department of Transportation and the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety urge all who travel in and around the Show-Me State during the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” to buckle up, slow down, drive sober and never drive distracted. In 2018, more than half of the 107 motorcycle fatalities occurred in the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer. The warm, sunny days also bring out more bicyclists and pedestrians. And last winter’s brutal weather conditions mean you’re likely to encounter more MoDOT road crews who will be repairing the damage. Just a single moment’s distraction can lead to a life-or-death encounter. Be proactive in your own safety. Of the drivers and passengers killed in 2018 traffic crashes, 62% were not wearing a seatbelt. Nelson also encourages drivers to plan ahead for summer celebrations and sporting events.

Echo Bluff State Park invites the public to an informational meeting at 1:00 this Saturday at the lodge. The public is invited to share comments about the state park and its operations. State park staff will be on hand to provide information and answer questions. Input from the public is important to Missouri State Parks. These informational meetings, which are being held in all state parks and historic sites, help create two-way communication with the public. The meetings give staff the opportunity to let people know the current status and future plans for the parks and historic sites, and they offer visitors the opportunity to comment on the facilities. Echo Bluff State Park is located at 34489 Echo Bluff Drive in Eminence. For more information, please contact Echo Bluff State Park at 573-751-5211. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit the web at mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Renewing Missouri hunting, fishing, and trapping permits is now easier and more convenient through the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) new online Permit Auto-Renewal service. Permit Auto-Renewal allows online permit buyers to automatically renew their permits prior to the start of the next season or permit year so they never have an expired permit when they need it most. Participation in Auto-Renewal is voluntary, and the service can only be activated by the permit buyer. Enrollment in Auto-Renewal can be done during an online permit purchase or by using the “Manage Your Account” feature. Within the “Manage Your Account” feature, users can also update their Auto-Renewal settings including payment method and enrolled permits and turn off the service. There are no additional fees for the service. Auto-Renewal will automatically charge permit buyers for their enrolled permits. Permit buyers must have a valid email address and credit card to participate. The Auto-Renewal service will send personalized email updates to participants – including initial enrollment, changes made by the buyer, 30-day and seven-day reminders of upcoming permit renewals and associated charges, and notifications of successful renewals and associated charges. Permit buyers can enroll in Auto-Renewal at mdc.mo.gov/buypermits during an online permit purchase or by using the “Manage Your Account” feature. Learn more about Permit Auto-Renewal at huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/permits/permit-auto-renewal. In addition to buying Missouri hunting, fishing, and trapping permits online at mdc.mo.gov/buypermits and through MDC’s free mobile apps (MO Hunting and MO Fishing), permit buyers can also purchase permits from numerous retail vendors around the state. Auto-Renewal-eligible permits purchased from retail vendors are not able to be enrolled into the service during the purchase process but can be enrolled later using the “Manage Your Account” feature.

Celebrate Flag Day at the Art Party this Friday night from 6:00 until 8:00 at the Creative Arts Center. Paint a picture and put your own special creative spin to it, then take it home to display prominently in your home or give away! This event for adults does NOT require any talent or previous experience, just a happy spirit and willingness to try. Reservations can be made by contacting the Salem Area Arts Council at 247-0279 and arranging to pay the $25 fee to reserve your spot. They will provide everything you need for the classes including the canvas, paint, brushes, aprons and easels. Bring your own personal style, your favorite beverage and they will do the rest.

The Salem Police Department has released reports for May 25th through the 27th. On Saturday afternoon, May 25th, at about 12:26 an officer was dispatched to Phil-Mart in reference to theft of fuel. The investigation of the report revealed the driver of a dark colored Chevrolet truck pumped fuel valued at $57.86 and left without paying. The report is under investigation. A bit later that afternoon at approximately 1:29, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 27-year-old male of Salem for driving while having their license suspended. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. The next afternoon, Sunday May 26th, near 12:51, an officer transported a 25-year-old female of Columbia, Missouri to the Phelps County Health Center due to a mental health commitment order. Finally on Monday night, May 27th, at about 9:47, an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department in reference to a theft. The investigation of the report revealed a person or persons unknown took a cell phone valued at $300.00 from a vehicle that was parked at Wal-Mart. The report is under investigation. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

“Art of the Spiderwoman,” a fiber arts exhibit featuring the work of Susan Ream Wilson, is now on display at the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center at 202 South Main. The exhibit reflects Susan’s lifelong passion of fiber arts including weaving, spinning, and dying yarn. Her craft includes fingerweaving, knitting, weaving and spinning yarn. Several of her hand made pieces are included in the exhibit along with tools reflecting her trade, spinning wheels, and hand spindles. Stop by and find out the story of the Art of the Spiderwoman. The Ozark Natural and Cultural Resources is open Monday-Friday from 9:00 in the morning until 5:00 in the afternoon, and on Saturdays from 9:00 in the morning until noon. Susan will be there every Wednesday to demonstrate her talent from 9:00 to 5:00 during the month of June.

Have you ever wanted to try kayaking but didn’t know where to begin? Do you want to get out on the water but don’t have your own kayak? You’re in luck! Missouri State Parks is offering to teach you how to paddle and have a safe enjoyable time on the water. This summer, parks staff will offer free two-hour kayaking instruction session at Current River State Park. This will be a great opportunity to try something new and experience some of Missouri’s lakes. They supply the equipment and the expertise. You supply the enthusiasm and an eagerness to discover nature and a new skill. Missouri State Parks provides the kayaks, a paddle, life jackets and instructors. Participants provide a good attitude and willingness to learn, plus appropriate swimwear and footwear. Before you register consider the following. Participants must be at least 10 years of age. Children 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The Parent/guardian does not have to participate but must be there to provide adult supervision. Participants should be comfortable around water. This event will be held in a Missouri state park and all rules and regulations apply. This is a family-oriented event. Alcohol and tobacco products are not allowed while participating in the Learn2 Paddle Program. The classes are free on Saturday June 22nd and Saturday July 20th at the Current River State Park, south of Salem from 10 in the morning until Noon. To register for the class, go to https://mostateparks.com/learn2paddle. Click on the “Register Here” near the bottom of the page. Then enter “learntopaddle” in the search box. The classes currently open for registration will pop up. All slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

During the annual school bus inspection program, buses found to have no defective items are rated as “approved.” Buses having one or more defective items which do not constitute an immediate danger are rated as “defective.” Buses with a defective item which constitutes an immediate danger are rated as “out-of-service.” Buses rated as “defective” may continue to be operated for the purpose of transporting students until repair is made. School districts are allowed 10 days following initial inspection to repair identified defects before being re-inspected by Highway Patrol motor vehicle inspection personnel. Buses rated as “out-of-service” must be repaired, re-inspected, and then placed back into service by Highway Patrol motor vehicle inspection personnel prior to transporting students. Buses not presented for re-inspection within the required 10-day period are reported to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The results for the schools in our area are for Bunker R-III where they had 8 busses inspected with 5 busses being approved, two were defective and one was placed out of service; Dent-Phelps R-III had 8 busses inspected with 5 busses being approved and 3 were defective; Green Forest R-II had 7 seven busses inspected with 6 busses being approved and one bus was found defective; North Wood R-IV had seven busses inspected with six of them being approved and one was placed out of service; Oak Hill R-I had 5 busses inspected with 3 of them being approved, one was found to be defective and one was placed out of service; and Salem R-80 had 11 busses inspected with 8 of them being approved and three of them were found defective.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. Dwight Ramsburg, the construction manager for the new county jail project for Septagon, was in to present a press release concerning the constant delays by CenturyLink that is slowing the progress of the project that may affect the completion date of mid December. He says that since 2018, CenturyLink has used almost every excuse to avoid moving a utility pole on the jails property boundary. It took months just to get an agreement in place that was signed in February after the county refused to pay the full amount before the work was completed which was already in the CenturyLink contract. First, the “water blocks” were damaged, then there was not enough space in a manhole for all the extra equipment, and now the cable that was ordered months ago is damaged and a new cable has to be ordered. Ramsburg in his release says the people of Dent County deserve better from CenturyLink. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams brought in the sales tax dollars received by the county in June. She said the General Revenue and the LEST Funds each received about $71,251.00 in June which is down from last year’s figure of $88,056.00. The funds year-to-date are each down about $1,131. Williams stated the Road and Bridge Fund received $32,843.52 and that is down from last month some $6,599. year to date, the Road and Bridge Fund is still up $4,160 which is about 1.95%. Williams reported that each jail fund received about $65,601 in June and that brings the year to date total in each fund of about $435,177. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell stated materials would be added and grading would be done on Dent County Roads 6220 and 6240, patch grading would be done on county road 4235, and a driveway culvert is going to be installed on Dent County Road 6020. Purcell also reported materials would be added on county roads 4080 and 5050 and ditch work will also be done on county road 5050. Purcell went on to say a man would be screening brown rock and a man would be working on a brush cutter as the bearings went out. Sam Gorman, filling it for Commissioner Gary Larson, said grading was going to be done on 2580, 2610, 2613 and 4280. He went on to state brush would be cut on county roads 3020 and 3030 and some rock would be added and grading done on county road 4030. Gorman also said a pipe was being installed on county road 4030. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles reports there will be a meeting on Tuesday, June 18th at the Signature Event Center in Rolla at 1701 Martin Springs Drive in Rolla from 6:00 to 8:00 to discuss a proposed National Forest Service ban on hunting feral hogs on Mark Twain National Forest lands. The meeting is open to everyone. Skiles also said the Missouri Department of Conservation is asking landowners to contact them at 573-522-4115 if they spot feral hog damage on their property. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams came back in with the budgeted transfers to the SMTS bus service of $7,000 and the transfer of $14,250 to the Nutrition Center. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported she balanced with the treasurer on all accounts in May. She also said she balanced with the assessor and collector on all add-ons, abatements and collections for May. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

A Downtown Salem Historic Ghost Tour will be held Friday night, June 14th from 8:30-9:30. The event is free and the public is welcome to attend. Those interested can meet at the Dent County Courthouse gazebo on the square, downtown. Jacob Stotler will be your host for the first ever downtown historic ghost tour in Salem! The tour will begin with a trek through downtown, listening to the tales of the past, and tales of those from the past coming back to visit. Learn the history of our buildings, enjoy the summer air, and experience great fellowship with other Salem residents. You will find out unusual facts about Salem including answers to “What’s the room on top of the courthouse? What was P’zaz? Where in the world is fat man squeeze? What’s underneath the library?” Learn all of this and more on our first ever downtown ghost tour! See you there!

The City of Salem’s Capital Improvement Committee and Finance Committee will hold a joint meeting this evening at 6:00 at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory, 1200 W. Rolla Road. The Capital Improvement Committee will review current Capital Projects and Purchases and also requested 2019-2020 Capital Projects and Purchases. The Finance Committee will receive an update on the 2018-2019 budget and discuss the 2019-2020 budget. The meetings are open to the public.

A one vehicle accident occurred Sunday morning at 11:00 in Crawford County on Route JJ about a half mile south of Bourbon. According to the highway patrol report, a 2000 Suzuki Intruder being driven by 53-year Shawn Lafferty of Leasburg, was traveling northbound on Route JJ when he traveled off the left side of the roadway, through a ditch and overturned. Lafferty was pronounced dead at the scene by Crawford County Deputy Coroner Nichole Gambling at 11:24. The Suzuki was removed from the scene by Chuck’s Towing. Lafferty was wearing safety equipment at the time of the accident.

Young readers will explore all things space this summer as the Salem Public Library presents A Universe of Stories during their summer library program. Activities may include group games, space-related crafts, art projects, science and engineering experiments, and more. Children who have completed kindergarten, 1st, or 2nd grade will meet on Mondays from June 17th through July 15th. Children who have completed 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade will meet on Wednesdays from June 19th through July 17th. Register your children at the library located at 403 North Jackson. For more information call 729-4331. Lunch by Love Packs will be available from 1:00 until 1:30 each day of the reading program in the library’s north basement meeting room. The lunch program is a community effort to ensure that nutritious food is available to children who may otherwise go hungry.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors Meeting took place at 6:00 Tuesday evening, June 4th. After the call to order, a motion was made and carried to approve the consent agenda and minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed and approved as presented. Bills were heard and approved with an ending balance of $215,894.22 as of the end of May. The budget was reviewed and approved. On Wednesday afternoon at 2:00, the bids will be opened for the station improvement and only one bid was received. In the monthly reimbursement report, the department received a total of 22 calls for the month of May, bringing the total calls year to date to 133. In new business, the board of directors for the Dent County Emergency Response Association were revisited with the appointment of new board member Randy Weldon to replace David Greenshields. Craig Smith was voted President, John McColloch vice president, and Dave Wells Secretary/Treasurer. Fire Chief Brad Nash reported that the trucks are being tested and general repairs are being performed and that the station is getting a general cleaning and inspection. The date for the next meeting was set for July 2nd at 6:00 at the fire station.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released a number of reports from May. On Saturday, May 25th, deputies conducted a traffic stop at the Highway 72 and Route J intersection. During the course of the traffic stop, a 30-year-old Salem woman was arrested for driving while being intoxicated and for being in possession of marijuana or a synthetic cannabinoid of 10 grams or less, a prior drug offense. The woman was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where she was fingerprinted, issued a summons and was released. On Sunday, May 26th, deputies received a report of two men trespassing on a residence on Dent County Road 3220. The deputies traveled to the residence and during the course of the incident, located a 41-year-old Salem man and a 24-year-old Salem man who were then arrested for trespassing in the 1st degree. Both men were transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where they were issued summons and released. On Friday, May 31st, deputies traveled to the 600 block of Route JJ for a warrant check. During the course of the service, a 49-year-old Salem man was arrested for having active warrants through Jasper County. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he later posted bond and was released. If anyone has information regarding an ongoing investigation, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 729-3241.

The following reports have been submitted by the Salem Police Department. On Saturday afternoon, June 1st, at approximately 4:37, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to trespassing. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 37-year-old male of Salem for trespassing after having been issued a no trespass order. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. The next morning at about 7:35, a vehicle was stopped for a warrant investigation. The investigation led to the arrest of a 30-year-old female of Salem on an active arrest warrant from Phelps County. The suspect was incarcerated pending extradition. Then on Tuesday afternoon, June 4th, at approximately 12:17, an officer was dispatched to Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health Center in reference to a violation of an ex-parte order. The investigation of the report revealed a 31-year-old male of Salem had violated an ex-parte order. The report is under investigation. Later that afternoon at about 3:48, an officer transported a 30-year-old female of Licking from Texas County Jail to Dent County Jail due to an active arrest warrant from the City of Salem. The suspect was incarcerated pending a court appearance. The next night at approximately 7:55 a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 25-year-old male of Licking for driving while revoked. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding an investigation.

Reservations are now being accepted for the City of Salem two Pavilions that can be rented at the Salem City Park for an entire day. The cost of the Fireplace Pavilion on the circle drive is $45 per day and the large pavilion on the west side of the creek is $35 for the entire day. This includes electric and lights. Other pavilions at the park are free and cannot be reserved. Please contact the Salem Community Center@The Armory at 729-8163 or drop by 1200 West Rolla Road for availability or to reserve a pavilion.

A summer cupcake decorating class will be held Tuesday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 at the Creative Arts Center. This course is being taught by Shannon Phelps and the cost is $20 per person. You can become a “sweet” artist and when finished, you get to take home 12 decorated cupcakes to your family. All materials are provided with the $20 fee. You must call this morning to register at 247-0279 or stop by the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center at 202 South Main Street.

The Dent County Commissioners met for their regular meeting Thursday morning in the courthouse. Sally Burbridge, Salem Economic Development Director, was in with her report. In addition to the written report she said she encourages people that are considering purchase of property to check with the City of Salem as to the zoning of the property. She said that recently there have been two instances where the zoning of property being purchased was not zoned for the intended purpose of the purchaser. In one case the problem was discovered three days before closing was scheduled to occur. Burbridge said that she’s waiting on notification about the Workforce Grant with Salem R-80 for the Building Trades Program. She also reported that MRPC has applied for a skilled workforce grant through the Delta Regional Authority. Burbridge noted in conclusion that the next meeting of the Economic Development Strategic Plan Workshop will be June 27th. In the road report District One Commissioner Dennis Purcell said that grading would be done and materials would be added to Dent County Road 3220, plus materials would added to county road 2440. He noted that materials would be added to county roads 5500, 4080 and 6245. Purcell went on to say that brush would be cut on county road 4110 and a man was finishing the 1,500 hour service on grader #24. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson said that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2120 and 2150, plus grading would be done and materials would be added to county road 5340. He reported that brush would be cut on county roads 3200, 2630, 2640 and 2620, plus a man was going to the Sligo area to grade some washouts on county roads 4010 and 3370. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles had nothing to report, but with the 75th Anniversary of D-Day he wanted to encourage everyone to pause and reflect on the freedoms we enjoy and the men and women who served to make it possible. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said the there were a few bills for the Commissioners to approve for payment. The next meeting of the Commissioners will be Monday morning at 9:00 in the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Salem Police Department has released the following reports to end the month of May. On Sunday morning, May 5th, at approximately 7:16, an officer located a 33-year-old female of Salem in the 1200 block of South Gertrude who had an active arrest warrant from Missouri Probation and Parole. The suspect was taken into custody on the warrant and incarcerated pending a court appearance. Then on Thursday morning, May 30th, at about 8:30, an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department in reference to a theft from a residence. That investigation revealed a person or persons unknown entered a residence in the 1300 block of South Wines and took an Alverez acoustic guitar valued at $600.00. The report is under investigation. That same afternoon at approximately 4:32, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to someone trespassing. The investigation of the report revealed a 24-year-old male of Salem who had been issued a no trespass notice from Wal-Mart properties was trespassing on the property. The suspect was taken into custody for trespassing, issued a summons to appear in court and released. Still later that evening at about 6:13, an officer was dispatched to the Salem Coin-Op Laundromat in reference to a person trespassing. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 37-year-old male of Salem who had been previously issued a no trespass order on the property. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. The next afternoon, Friday May 31st, at about 4:25, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 20-year-old female from Cuba, Missouri for stealing merchandise valued at $12.96. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. Please contact the Salem Police Dept. at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information.

Dent County Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Curley reports on the cases brought before Judge Kelly Parker on Thursday, May 30th in Dent County. At the proceedings, Shawn Alterauge of Salem pled guilty to a Class E felony of resisting a lawful stop creating a subsequent risk of injury or death to a person. Alterauge was sentenced to four years in the Department of Corrections. Also at the proceedings, Julie Henson of Rolla had her probation revoked and was sentenced to seven years in the Department of Corrections under Revised Missouri State Statute 559.115. That same day, Franklin White of St. Robert had his probation revoked and was sentenced to 10 years in the Department of Corrections manufacturing a controlled substance. Also on May 30th, Bobbie Paul of Salem had her probation revoked and was sentenced to fulfill her 10 year sentence in the Department of Corrections. Curley also reported that Lamicia Conaway of Cherryville and Kari Johns of Salem both pled guilty to the felony distribution of a controlled substance. Curley said the State sought 10 years in the Department of Corrections under 559.115 while the defense sought probation. Judge Parker found in favor of the defense motion and granted probation for each defendant for five years over the objection of the state. On Tuesday in Crawford County in front of Judge Megan Seay, Randy Richardson of Boss had his probation revoked for failing to report and was sentenced to seven years in the Department of Corrections.

The Salem Police Department has released their report for the month of April. The Salem Police issued 3 equipment repair orders, 9 summonses to appear in court, 10 warning tickets, and 15 traffic tickets, plus they also served 2 city warrants and 5 fugitive warrants. The Salem Police investigated 17 traffic accidents, one assault, 3 burglaries, and two disorderly conduct reports. They also investigated one dog bite, two domestic assaults and four domestic violence reports. Two driving while intoxicated were investigated along with two driving while revoked or suspended, along with 1 report of fraud and one leaving the scene of an accident. The department investigated three possessions of a controlled substance reports along with 4 possession of drug paraphernalia, six reports of stealing and two unlawful use of a firearm or weapon. The department also reported two 96 hour commitments. The department was also dispatched for 66 animal calls, 32 ambulance assist calls, 26 well being checks, 23 requests for information, and performed 57 traffic stops for the month. The department received 971 calls in April and 65 walk- ins to the station. The department drove 8,377 miles during the month of April and spent 12 hours in court testifying and 8 hours as court Bailiff. There were 15 males and 5 females arrested in April.

The Missouri Public Service Commission will hold a local public hearing in Rolla on Tuesday, June 11th in a natural gas rate case filed by Union Electric Company d/b/a Ameren Missouri. This local public hearing will be held at the Rolla City Hall Council Chambers at 901 N. Elm Street in Rolla A PSC Staff public information/question and answer session starts at noon with the Commission receiving testimony from the public starting at 12:30 p.m.. This site is ADA compliant. Any person who needs additional accommodations to participate in this hearing should call the Public Service Commission’s hotline at 1-800-392-4211 (voice) or Relay Missouri at 711 before the hearing. If you are unable to attend a local public hearing and wish to make written comments or secure additional information, you may contact the Office of the Public Counsel, Suite 650, P.O. Box 2230, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102, or call 1-866-922-2959. On December 3rd, of 2018, Ameren Missouri filed a natural gas rate case with the Missouri Public Service Commission seeking to increase annual natural gas revenues by approximately $4.26 million. According to Ameren Missouri’s filing, the average annual change in natural gas rates for residential customers will be approximately $26 a year. Ameren Missouri provides natural gas service to approximately 131,000 customers in 25 Missouri counties including in Dent, Gasconade and Phelps in our area.

The Salem Board of Aldermen regular meeting was held Monday evening at the City Hall Council Chambers. The Board discussed a number of health insurance bids for coverage from Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield and United Health Care. After some deliberation, the board decided to postpone making a decision on the policies until a special meeting could be held. The board then discussed property and liability insurance coverage and workman’s compensation coverage. The board approved going with their current insurance carrier, MPR’s renewal quote on property insurance for $33,804.04 and liability coverage at $118,923.92. The board decided to change their workman’s compensation coverage to that offered by Memic that reduced the work experience claim factor to 1.00 from the current 1.8 with MPR that provided a reduced cost of $158,796, a savings of over $160,000. After approval of the consent agenda, City Administrator Ray Walden stated that he has followed up with Harold Tubbs on the issues brought up at a previous meeting with explanations to all his questions and concerns. Walden stated that no board is treated differently than any other board as Tubbs had insinuated with his comments as Walden said all the information that he gave Tubbs is available for all to see. Walden set the Capital Improvement Committee meeting for Thursday at 7:00 at a location to be determined, and the Capital Improvement Committee or Budget Committee meeting will be meeting on Tuesday, June 11th at 7:00 at a location to be determined. Walden and City Attorney William Camm Seay discussed a workshop to address the nuisance ordinance. Seay said copies of the new ordinance information need to be available to the public before the workshop. There may be a charge for paper copies from city hall or they could be e-mailed at no cost. Seay will let the city know when the information is ready. Once the information is available, a workshop will be set. The board approved Resolution #13-2019 to allow the city to use the Commons for the annual 4th of July Fireworks display to be held on Independence Day. The maintenance costs went up from $800 to $1,200 for the event and no personal fireworks will be allowed by those attending. The board also approved Bill #3418 which created an ordinance to rezone the property owned by Joshua and Lorie Greenwood at 600 South McArthur to be changed from residential to commercial. The board approved all the standing committees appointed by Mayor Brad Nash before going into closed session to discuss real estate, contracts and personnel.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released a number of reports from May. On Tuesday, May 21st, deputies traveled to the 6000 block of Highway 32 East to attempt to serve an arrest warrant. During the course of the service, a 34-year-old Salem man was arrested for a warrant through Dent County, possession of a controlled substance and unlawful use of drug paraphernalia. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and he was incarcerated. Later that day, deputies traveled to a residence on John Street in an attempt to serve an arrest warrant. During the course of the incident, a 26-year-old Salem man was arrested for an active warrant through Probation and Parole. He was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and was incarcerated in the Dent County Jail. On Wednesday, May 22nd, deputies conducted a traffic stop at the Route H and DD intersection. During the course of the traffic stop, a 29-year-old Salem man was arrested for driving while having his license revoked or suspended, a 2nd offense. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. If anyone has information regarding an ongoing investigation, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 729-3241.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will hold a special meeting Thursday evening at 7:00 at the Salem Community Center@The Armory to discuss employee health insurance. The City of Salem Capital Improvement Committee will then hold a special meeting Thursday evening immediately following the special board meeting at the Salem Community Center@The Armory after 7:00 to review Capital Projects and Purchases as well as requested 2019-2020 projects and purchases. The special board meeting and the Capital Improvements Committee meeting are both open to the public.

The Dent County Commissioners met for their regular meeting Thursday morning in the Dent County Courthouse. In the road report District One Commissioner Dennis Purcell said that grading would be done and materials would be added to Dent County Roads 5180, 4080 and 5600, while grading only would be done on county roads 2470 and 6255. He said he had a crew member continuing to prepare the area at the Road and Bridge Department for the chips for the chip and seal overlay project later this summer. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson said that he was down to one grader operator this week so grading would be done on Dent County Roads 4300 and 4290, plus if time permitted some patch grading would be done and materials would be added to county road 4060. He went on to say that material would be added to county road 4300 and brush would be cut on county roads 3210 and 2240. Larson said that he has had several people ask “when are you going to start grading?” Larson said he wants the public to realize that the County is grading all the time if it’s not too muddy or too dry. It’s all based on weather conditions and road conditions as to where the County is grading. Larson said that each district has over 325 miles to grade and they are not avoiding anyone. Commissioner Purcell noted that in a perfect world with all road conditions right they can get over all the roads in about 8 weeks. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said that he and Commissioner Purcell attended the Economic Development meeting last Thursday evening and that there was a good size crowd and a productive meeting and that the next meeting would be Thursday evening June 27th. At the last meeting of the Commission Jack Todd with Victor Heating and Cooling was in to talk about the cooling unit upstairs at the Judicial Building. He said the unit needs maintenance, plus it’s 20 year old. He said a new unit would be $3,940.00 including installation. The Commissioners vote 3-0 to replace the unit. Sheriff Bob Wells was in to visit about getting the Sheriff’ Department parking lot chip and sealed and lines painted with concrete bumper stops. Jamie Statezny with the US Forest Service came in to discuss the Forest Service proposal to join the State of Missouri in banning pursuit and taking of feral hogs on Forest Service land. Sean McGonigle with MAC came in to visit about the workman comp rates. The next meeting of the Commissioner will be Thursday morning in the Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

A special waste collection for electronics, appliances and tires will be held from 8:00 until noon this Saturday in the parking lot of Brewer Science at 2401 Brewer Drive in Rolla. Brewer Science and MRPC, with funding through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District (ORSWMD), are offering the collection. The collection is for household items only and no materials from businesses will be accepted. Stoves, washers, dryers, hot water heaters, and other appliances will be collected free of charge. Free electronics also include computer components, laptop computers, keyboards, hair dryers, VCR/DVD players, cell phones or anything that runs on a cord or battery. Oil and gas must be removed from tanks of any items such as push mowers, weed eaters, etc. Please note the following items will NOT be accepted: VHS & data tapes; floppy disks; transformers, capacitors or ballasts not clearly marked “No PCBs”; smoke detectors; thermostats; medical waste; gas containers such as propane, oxygen, nitrous oxide; anything leaking oil or acid, such as batteries; broken ink or toner cartridges; alkaline batteries; broken CRTS, TVs or monitors. Fees on certain items will be collected as follows: $25 for CRT TVs over 27 inches and wood console TVs, $20 for CRT TVs under 26 inches, $15 for flat screen TVs, $10 for all computer monitors and refrigerated appliances with Freon. Fees for tires are as follows: $2 each for passenger tires, $7.50 each for semi-truck tires and $35 each for tractor tires. For more information on items accepted or the fee structure, please contact Jill Hollowell at MRPC at 573-265-2993 Ext. 109 or at jhollowell@meramecregion.org. Program participants are required to unload the items themselves. The collection is open to any household in the Ozark Rivers District, including Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties. The solid waste district is tasked with reducing the amount of waste that ends up in a landfill by 40 percent.

Have you moved to Salem/Dent County recently? Come out to a free welcome event called “New Neighbor Night.” It is an open house at the Main Street Cafe at 508 North Main Street this afternoon from 4:00 until 6:00 to meet and mingle, ask questions, learn where to volunteer, and make new connections to residents, local leaders, and community organization representatives. Community members new and not-so-new are welcome to stop by and get to know our neighbors!

A man and woman from Boss suffered serious injuries in an accident that occurred Saturday evening at 5:50 in Texas County on Highway 63 seven miles north of Cabool. According to the highway patrol report, a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze, driven by 49-year-old Margaret DeLisle traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment and overturned. Both DeLisle and a passenger, 45-year-old William DeLisle, suffered serious injuries and were transported by Air Ambulance to Cox South Hospital in Springfield. According to the report, Margaret DeLisle was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident, while William DeLisle was not. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene by Jay’s Automotive of Houston.

An accident occurred Saturday night at about 7:15 in Iron County on Iron County Road 69 at County Road 69A that left a Rolla man with moderate injuries. According to the highway patrol report, a 2012 Suzuki Vinson driven by 23-year-old Alexander Sibley, failed to negotiate a curve and ran off a low water bridge where the Suzuki overturned. Sibley suffered moderate injuries and was taken by Air Evac to St. Francis Hospital in Cape Girardeau. The Patrol Report stated that Sibley was not wearing any safety devices at the time of the accident. The Suzuki sustained moderate damage and was removed from the scene by the owner.

An accident happened Sunday afternoon at 2:07 in Texas County on Highway 137 about two miles south of Licking. According to the highway patrol report, a 2003 Chevrolet Silverado driven southbound by 20-year old Zachary Krewson of Licking, traveled of the right side of the road. Krewson overcorrected and the pickup traveled off the left side of the roadway and overturned. Krewson suffered minor injuries in the accident and was taken by a private vehicle to the Texas County Memorial Hospital in Houston. Krewson was not wearing a seat restraint when the accident happened. The Silverado sustained only minor damage and was towed from the scene by Jay’s Towing in Houston.

The Salem Board of Aldermen will meet tonight at 7:00 at the City Hall Council Chambers. Bids will be reviewed for employee health insurance, workman’s comp insurance, plus property and liability insurance. After the consent agenda, City Administrator Ray Walden will give his report on items concerning the city including informing the Board that the City is in receipt of a Nuisance Ordinance and the date needs to be set for a public meeting to address the ordinance. In a reading of bills and resolutions, the board will address Resolution #13-2019, a resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute an agreement between the City of Salem and The Dent County Commons for the leasing of The Commons for the 2019 Fourth of July Fireworks Display. They will also talk about Bill #3413, which would create an ordinance to rezone Tract 1, all of lots two and three in Block A of Douglass Addition in the City at 600 South McArthur Avenue, from residential to commercial, owned by Joshua and Lorie Greenwood. In new and miscellaneous business, appointments will be made to standing committees. The board will then go into closed session to discuss contracts, real estate and personnel. The regular meeting of the Board of Aldermen is open to the public.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors will hold their monthly meeting Tuesday night beginning at 6:00 PM at #2 South Main. After the call to order and roll call the board will approve the consent agenda and review minutes from the previous meeting. Following the financial report and approval of bills there will be a calendar review and monthly reimbursement report then any old business and new business will be addressed. The board may vote to go into closed session if necessary. The date will then be set for the July 2nd meeting at 6:00 at the Fire Station prior to adjournment. The meeting is open to the public.

The Salem Police Department has released reports for May 23rd and 24th. On Thursday morning, May 23rd, at approximately 9:48, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 300 block of West First Street in reference to a theft. The investigation of the report revealed a person or persons unknown took a black and green Mongoose bicycle valued at $150.00 from the yard of the residence. The report is under investigation. That same night at about 6:08, an officer located a 55-year-old female of Salem in the 1500 block of Highway 19 who had an active arrest warrant from Jefferson County, Missouri. The suspect was taken into custody on the warrant and later released with a new date to appear in court after posting bond. Still later that night at approximately 9:30, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 33 -year-old male of Summersville for driving while having his license suspended. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. On Friday morning, May 24th at about 12:18, an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department in reference to a stolen license plate. The investigation of the report revealed a person or persons unknown took a license plate valued at $13.50 from a black Chrysler 300. The report is under investigation. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

The Dent County Commissioners met for their regular meeting Thursday morning in the Dent County Courthouse. In the road report District One Commissioner Dennis Purcell said that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 5510, 5600 and 2400, while materials would be added and grading done on county roads 6420 and 6435. He also reported that a driveway culvert would be installed for a resident on county road 4110 and patching of chip and seal would be done on county road 4180. Purcell noted that a crew member was moving materials at the Road and Bridge Department to make room for the chips that are to be used in the Chip and Seal Project later this summer. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson reported that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 4300, 4290 and 4480, plus materials would be added and grading done on county road 2050. He also noted that brush would be cut on county road 3230. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said that he attended the IDA meeting Wednesday night where Economic Development Director Sally Burbridge gave an update. He noted that in order to fill a vacancy IDA will be presenting someone for appointment to the board. Skiles said he planned to attend the Economic Development Strategic Planning Workshop Thursday night at the Dent County Firehouse. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said that payroll had been approved on Tuesday and that the Commissioners were approving bills for payment. Commissioner Purcell said that he would like to seek bids for the purchase of a pickup for the Road and Bridge Department with advertisement being in next week’s Salem News. He said bids would be due to Curley’s office Monday, June 17th by 10:00 am. The Commissioners approved the motion 3-0. The next meeting of the Commissioners will be Monday morning in the Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

Celebrate National Trails Day with Ozark National Scenic Riverways and Missouri State Parks! Join us for a special hike-float event on the Current River, beginning at Echo Bluff State Park at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 1. This event is free and open to the public. The program will begin at 8:30 a.m. at Echo Bluff State Park, with a 4-mile hike on the newly constructed Current River Trail to Current River State Park. From Current River State Park, participants will float four miles to the upper landing at Round Spring. All participants will need to stage their own vessel and paddling equipment with park staff at Current River State Park prior to the hike, and arrange for a shuttle back to Echo Bluff State Park at the conclusion of the event. Participants should bring paddling equipment, a Personal Flotation Device, a sack lunch, and water for the day. Everyone is strongly encouraged to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and any other personal gear for hiking or paddling. Participants are also responsible for making their own arrangements for a shuttle between Round Spring and Echo Bluff State Park at the end of the day. This National Trails Day event will introduce the “Current River Challenge”, a unique hike-float opportunity that visitors can enjoy at any time. Ozark National Scenic Riverways and Missouri State Parks are partnering in 2019 to promote hiking and floating between Round Spring, Echo Bluff State Park and Current River State Park in celebration of the recently completed trails in the area. Participants can pick up their challenge card at Round Spring Visitor Center and collect stamps at each location. For more information about this event, call the Round Spring Ranger Station at 573-323-8093. Each year, on the first Saturday of June, American Hiking Society invites Americans of all ages and abilities to celebrate National Trails Day by in the area. Participants can pick up their challenge card at Round Spring Visitor Center and collect stamps at each location. For more information about this event, call the Round Spring Ranger Station at 573-323-8093. Each year, on the first Saturday of June, American Hiking Society invites Americans of all ages and and abilities to celebrate National Trails Day by finding their own adventure and discovering their unique story at one of the thousands of events hosted throughout the country.

What are those strange sounds that we hear during the night? Come to an interactive program to learn about birds that add to spring and summer night noise; the owls and nightjars! Meet at the amphitheater on Saturday, June 8th at 8:30, to view photos of these feathered friends and learn why they are so unique. Afterwards, participants will take a short walk in hopes of hearing the owls and nightjars along the creek, while parks staff attempt to call in more of these birds! This event is free and open to public. Participants are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy shoes for the short walk. Insect repellent is also recommended. Echo Bluff State Park is located on Highway 19, approximately 25 miles south of Salem and 14 miles north of Eminence. For more information about this and other events at the park call 573-751-1224.