Local News

This Saturday will be the Community Wide Yard Sale in Salem as yard sales will be occurring all over town and out in the county. Maps for the location of local yard sales will be available at the city administration building and the Visitor’s Center. A central sale location will be held at the city administration building on Saturday. You can still reserve a space on the city parking lot at 4th and Iron Street for $8.00 per space by calling 729-4811. Those spaces are reserved on a first come, first serve basis. A list of the reserved spaces with names will be taped to the building door the morning of the City Wide Yard Sale. Don’t forget that the following two weeks in the City of Salem will be the Spring Clean-Up Weeks where an unlimited amount of trash can be placed curb side to be picked up including refrigerators, washers, dryers, and more. Remember, tires, car batteries, oil and paint cannot be picked up. If anyone has questions about what can be or cannot be picked up, they are welcome to contact WCA.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) encourages homeowners and landscapers to avoid planting Callery pear trees this spring. Though these trees bear beautiful white flowers in the springtime, looks can be deceiving. The Callery pear tree is often found for sale as Bradford pear, Cleveland Select, Autumn Blaze, or Aristocrat. It is a highly invasive species that multiplies quickly, flourishes in a variety of poor growing conditions, and reduces biodiversity by crowding out native Missouri plants. The trees were introduced as ornamental landscape trees in the 1960s and became popular because they were inexpensive, grew relatively fast, and provided beautiful blooms. However, the species has since become notorious for its poor branch structure, cross pollination problems, and that stinky smell. Forestry Field Program Supervisor Russell Hinnah says that the different varieties of these ornamental pear trees were planted close to each other, which allowed them to cross pollinate and take over natural areas. But they’re also a poor landscaping choice because they don’t do well in storms, often losing limbs or splitting apart. MDC urges Missourians to remove pear trees and plant native trees instead. Hinnah continued, the best plan is to select species native to Missouri and there are several great options. Serviceberry trees produce similar showy white blooms in the spring and have small red fruits that attract wildlife. Other great alternatives include American plum, hawthorn, eastern redbud and Missouri’s state tree, the flowering dogwood. Hawthorns provide bountiful fruit and attractive fall color. Dogwoods thrive in shady areas but can be difficult to grow. To learn about native trees for landscaping, planting tips, backyard tree care and more, visit mdc.mo.gov/trees-plants/tree-care.

Come to Echo Bluff State Park for a Dark Sky Astronomy Program this Saturday from 7:30 to 9:30. Everyone can meet on the “Sky Porch” at Bluff Top Pavilion parking lot. The Dent County Astronomers will have their scopes set up and ready to view constellations and the Milky Way. Learn about how light pollution obstructs our view of the sky in cities and towns around the world and what we can do to keep our skies dark. Be sure to dress for the weather as it can still get chilly this time of year. This event is free and open to the public. Echo Bluff State Park is located on Highway 19 about 25 miles south of Salem and approximately 14 miles north of Eminence. For more information about this and other events at the park call 573-751-1224.

The Salem Police Department has released some reports. On Saturday afternoon, April 20th at about 1:50, an officer was dispatched to the area of Third and Henderson Streets in reference to damage to a vehicle. The investigation of the report revealed that a person or persons unknown broke the rear door glass valued at $200.00 on a blue 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt. The report is under investigation. On Sunday night, April 21st at about 7:59 in the morning, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 1800 block of South Oak in reference to an assault. That investigation revealed a 22-year-old male of Salem has assaulted a 20-year-old female of Salem. Further investigation led to the arrest of the suspect for domestic assault, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and property damage. He was incarcerated pending an application for warrants. On Monday, April 22nd near 5:00 in the afternoon, an officer transported a 40-year-old male of Cape Girardeau to the Osage Beach Center for Cognitive Disorders on a mental commitment order. On Tuesday, April 23rd at about 3:00 in the afternoon, an officer transported a 40-year-old male of Salem from the Pulaski County Jail to the Dent County Jail where he was incarcerated pending a court appearance on an active arrest warrant from the City of Salem. If you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation, please contact the Salem Police Department at 729-4242.

The City of Salem Economic Development Director Sally Burbridge invites the public to the fourth economic development strategic planning workshop at the Community Center@the Armory in the main meeting room starting at 5:30 and lasting until 7:00 on Thursday, May 2nd. The topics at this meeting will include gateways and signage assessments as well as residential housing and development, plus any additional discussion on the first 12 sections that have already been addressed. Anyone wishing to review the draft document in advance of the meeting which is highly recommended may review and download the document at www.grosalem.com/economic.html or pick up a copy at the City Administration Building, 400 N. Iron St., Salem, MO. Basic refreshments will be served at the meeting.

The Current River State Park will host a special summer kick-off event this Saturday from 10:00 in the morning until 3:00 in the afternoon to help people get ready for making the most of the season. During the summer kick-off event, participants can meet local vendors and outdoor enthusiasts who can help them discover the many different ways they can create outdoor adventure and make memories in and around the park. There will be many adventurous activities to experience including hiking a trail, kayaking or fishing on the lake, learning about archery and shooting a bow. The Current River State Park is located on Highway 19, about 23 miles south of Salem, and approximately 15 miles north of Eminence. For more information about this and other events at the park call 573-751-1224.

Camping forms for livestock exhibitors will be available on the State Fair website starting at 9:00 this morning. Please note that the State Fair website typically experiences very high traffic volume on the morning the livestock exhibitor camping forms go live. State Fair staff is working with our webmaster and site host to be diligent in our efforts to accommodate the hits that the site often experiences during this time. We appreciate your patience and understanding should any situations arise. If you have questions about the status of your camping form after you have submitted it, please email campgrounds@mda.mo.gov. These reserved exhibitor campsites will open Sunday, August 4th. They are only available for livestock exhibitors, commercial vendors and persons with disabilities. Complete camping rules and more information are available on the Fair’s website.

Missourians can experience fun, family-friendly activities throughout the state park system during the month of May in celebration of Kids to Parks Day. Organized by the National Parks Trust, Kids to Parks Day is a nationwide celebration of the great outdoors and is designed to connect kids and families with their local, state and national parks and public lands. By discovering and exploring parks and public lands, kids across the country can learn about park stewardship, outdoor recreation, STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), and the history of our country. Typically, Kids to Parks Day is one day in May. The official day this year is May 18. However, this year, as a way to ensure everyone can participate in this nationwide movement, the National Park Trust is expanding their efforts and including any event in May that invites children and families to get outdoors. Kids to Parks Day events being held in state park are located at parktrust.org/kids-to-parks-day/. For more information about Missouri state parks and historic sites, visit the web at mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning for their regular meeting at the Dent County Courthouse. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell stated materials would be added and grading would be done on Dent County Roads 4210, 5600 and 5615. He said grading would be done county roads 6540, 6550 and 6670 while materials would be added to county road 5460. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Roads 2120, 2520, 2570 and 4430. Larson said only materials would be added to county road 4437 while brush will be cut on Dent County Roads 3140 and 3150. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley presented the lease/purchase agreement from Town and Country Bank for 2.84% for three years for the 2019 Chevy Silverado Crew Cab bought on the state bid from Don Brown Chevrolet for the Dent County Sheriff’s Department. The state bid price for the 2019 Silverado is $32,945. The commissioners all signed the lease/purchase agreement. 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.

An estimated 350 black bears call southern Missouri home, and as the spring season gets underway, these magnificent mammals leave their winter dens in search of food. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is reminding Missourians to be proactive and “Be Bear Aware.” MDC Resource Scientist and Furbearer Biologist Laura Conlee said it is imperative that residents remove bear attractants from their property, such as bird feeders, trash, barbeque grills, pet food, and food waste. Conlee noted that intentionally feeding bears can be dangerous as it makes the bears comfortable around people. It can also lead bears to cause significant damage to property while searching for a meal. Food is usually a bear’s main motivator, but that also means it can be a main source of conflict. MDC offers the following tips to avoid attracting black bears to possible food sources: Store garbage, recyclables, and compost inside a secure building or in a bear-proof container until trash pick-up day. Keep grills and smokers clean and store them inside. Don’t leave pet food outside. Feed pets a portion at each meal and remove the empty containers. Refrain from using bird feeders in bear country from April through November. If in use, hang them at least 10 feet high and 4 feet away from any structure. Keep in mind that even if a bear cannot get to the birdseed, the scent could still attract it to the area. Use electric fencing to keep bears away from beehives, chicken coops, vegetable gardens, orchards, and other potential food sources. Keep campsites clean and store all food, toiletries and trash in a secure vehicle or strung high between two trees. Do not keep food or toiletries in a tent, and do not burn or bury garbage or food waste. While black bears are generally a shy, non-aggressive species and bear attacks are rare, follow these tips when outdoors in bear country: Make noise, such as clapping, singing or talking loudly, while hiking to prevent surprising a bear. Travel in a group if possible. Keep dogs leashed. Be aware of the surroundings. If there is evidence of a bear, such as tracks or scat, avoid the area. Leave bears alone! Do not approach them, and make sure they have an escape route. The American black bear is the only species that resides in Missouri and is one of the largest and heaviest wild mammals in Missouri, some reaching up to 500 pounds. MDC research shows most of the black bear population resides in the southern third of the state in the Missouri Ozarks, but Missouri’s population is growing and bears are moving into areas north of Interstate 44. Black bears are currently a protected species in Missouri. MDC asks the public to report bear sightings and post photos online at mdc.mo.gov/reportbears. The online report helps MDC staff obtain complete and accurate information. Sightings reported by the public allow MDC to track expansion of the black bear population and respond to nuisance issues.

The Salem Upper Elementary School will hold their 32nd Annual Serendipity on Thursday, May 2nd where the students will be introduced to a number of different interests, activities, hobbies, jobs, trades, crafts, skills and more in a fun environment from professionals and enthusiasts. This community event involves numerous volunteers that include emergency responders, teachers, businesses, different sports, hobbyists, artists as well as people from the US Armed Forces, Department of Conservation, Salem Memorial District Hospital, US Forest Service and many others. Serendipity, the gift of finding value in things not sought for, allows each student to attend three, 50-minute activity sessions of their choice. Serendipity, created by Anne Rouse and Becky Mitchell, won the Success Link Award in 1999.

The Salem Public Library is accepting photo submissions for the “A Universe of Stories” Teen Photography Contest between May 1st and June 7th. You can visit the library at 403 N. Jackson or call 729-4331 for more information. Details about the contest are also available on the library’s Facebook page.

An accident happened at 12:39 Thursday afternoon in Crawford County on Highway 19 about one half mile south of the Highway 8 junction that took the life of a Steelville woman. According to the highway patrol report, a 2006 Freightliner driven northbound by 35-year old Matthew Krechel of St. Charles, crossed the center line and struck a 2008 Buick Lacrosse driven southbound by 77-year old Hester Sanders of Steelville. Sanders was taken to the Mercy Hospital in Creve Coeur by Air Evac where she was pronounced dead from her injuries at 3:28 in the afternoon. The Buick was totaled and removed from the scene by Miles and Sons Towing. The Freightliner towed unit sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene. Sanders was wearing a seat restraint at time of the accident. The Highway Patrol was assisted by the Crawford County Sheriff’s Department, the Steelville Fire Department and the North Crawford County Ambulance District at the scene.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released the following report for April 16th through the 22nd. On Tuesday, April 16th, deputies received a report of 17 solar lights being stolen from a residence on Private Lane 413. Deputies conducted a further investigation and the next day, deputies recovered the stolen solar lights and arrested a 52-year old Salem female for misdemeanor stealing. The female was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where she was fingerprinted, issued summons and released. Also on April 16th, deputies conducted a traffic stop near the 3000 block of Dent County Road 5015. During the course of the traffic stop, a 30-year-old Salem male was arrested for driving while having his license revoked or suspended, a 2nd or subsequent offense. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. That same day deputies conducted a traffic stop on Dent County Road 6150. During the course of the traffic stop, a 37-year-old Salem female was arrested for driving while having her license suspended, a 2nd or subsequent offense. The female was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, fingerprinted, issued summons and released. That same day deputies conducted a traffic stop on Dent County Road 4110 near Shawnee Mac Lakes. During the course of the traffic stop, a 21-year-old male of Troy, Missouri was arrested for having active warrants through the St. Charles County Sheriff’s Office. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office Jail and was incarcerated. On Wednesday April 17th, deputies traveled to a residence in the 600 block of Dent County Road 4253 to attempt to serve an arrest warrant. During the course of the investigation, a 32-year-old Salem female was arrested for two active warrants through Dent County. Also arrested was a 35-year-old Salem man for warrants through the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office. Both subjects were transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office Jail and were incarcerated. On Saturday April 20th, deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 1200 block of north Highway 19. During the course of the traffic stop, a 19-year old Rolla male was arrested for driving while having their license revoked or suspended. The male was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, fingerprinted, issued summons and released. On Sunday, April 21st deputies were contacted by the Phelps County Sheriff’s Office in reference to a stealing case which had occurred in the 500 block of Dent County Road 2430. During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that two cigar boxes containing approximately $600.00 in United States currency was stolen. This report is still under investigation. On Monday, April 22nd, deputies traveled to the 7000 block of Highway 68 for a report of a male trespassing. During the course of the investigation, a 55-year-old Springfield male was arrested for trespassing 1st degree. The male was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, fingerprinted, issued summons and released.

Come to Echo Bluff State Park for a Dark Sky Astronomy Program from 7:30-9:30 Saturday night, May 4th on the “Sky Porch” at Bluff Top Pavilion parking lot. The Dent County Astronomers will have their scopes set up and ready to view constellations and the Milky Way. Learn about how light pollution obstructs our view of the sky in cities and towns around the world and what we can do to keep our skies dark. Be sure to dress for the weather as it could be very cold this time of year. This event is free and open to the public. Echo Bluff State Park is located on Highway 19 approximately 25 miles south of Salem and approximately 14 miles north of Eminence. For more information about the event, call Echo Bluff State Park at 573-751-1224.

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning at the courthouse for their regular meeting. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles was not present due to a previous commitment. District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell was selected to act as the Presiding Commissioner for the meeting. In the hearing of persons, Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams reported that she received a notification that a check was coming to the county from the US Forest Service from Title 1 and mineral receipts in the amount of $222,574.28. From those proceeds, the Dent County Road and Bridge Department will receive $55,643.57 while five school districts will divide $166,930.71. The Bunker R-3 School District will receive $64,602.19 while the Salem R-80 School District will get $40,831.26. Also receiving these funds will be the Oak Hill R-1 School District and they will get $33,720.01 while the Viburnum C-4 School District will receive $26,358.33 and Northwood R-4 school District will get $1,418.92. Last year, the county received two payments from the US Forest service, the first in March of $166,888.16 and the second payment on May 17th of $66,147.48. Commissioner Purcell went onto give the District 1 report and said crews would be out cleaning out culverts in the Bunker area and would also be putting an extension on a driveway pipe on Dent County Road 6380. Two men were working on a pup trailer fixing a flat and doing regular maintenance. Purcell also said a crew would be working on shoring up the area around a crossover pipe on county road 6380 where the material has washed away. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson said crews in his district were also cleaning out culvert pipes in numerous locations while another crew would be cleaning out the truck barn at the Road and Bridge Maintenance area. He said workers would be adding material to Dent County Road 2160 and looking for washouts on some roads that have been known to wash out in the past. William Kuisel brought in a petition signed by many landowners who live on Private Lane 601 to have the road maintained by the county. The road used to be a county road in the 1970’s but was abandoned by the county when no one lived down that road for many years. Purcell said the county’s policy is the road would have to be brought up to the county’s established standards before the commission would consider maintaining the road since no public funds have been used to maintain the road in over seven years. The concern is the road is in such bad condition now that emergency vehicles are unable to travel down it as well as propane dealers, but as a Private Lane, it is the landowners responsibility to maintain the roads. There is also an easement issue with one of the landowners that they will take to the Dent County Prosecuting Attorney for his advice. Matt Bain, the district director from Senator Josh Hawley’s office, was in to introduce himself to the commission and see if there is anything he can do to help with any problems. The request from the commission was to see if there is anything that can be done to allow the county to use the monies from Title 3 for road or bridge improvements. He said he would check into it. The Dent County Commission will next meet Monday at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

A one vehicle accident occurred Wednesday afternoon at 4:55 in Dent County on Highway 32 about eight miles East of Salem. According to the highway patrol report, a 2006 Pontiac G6 driven by 19-year old Jennifer White of Salem, was traveling eastbound when the car ran off the right side of the roadway and overturned. Two occupants of the vehicle: 28-year old Mary Keel and five-year old Thomas Schroeder, both of Salem, were transported by the Salem Ambulance to the Salem Memorial District Hospital for the treatment of minor injuries. The Pontiac was totaled and removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing.

Dent County Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Curley reported on a couple of cases that went before Judge Kelly Parker Tuesday in Dent County. The first case involved Austin Carter of Salem. His probation was revoked when he was charged with felony possession of a controlled substance. Carter was sentenced to seven years in the Department of Corrections. In another case determined in Dent County Tuesday in court, Owen B. White of Salem pled guilty to the stealing of a firearm and for the unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. White has a previous criminal history and was sentenced to seven years incarceration in the Missouri Department of Corrections on each count.

The Salem Police Department has released reports for April 14th though the 17th. On Sunday morning, the 14th, at approximately 8:28, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 100 block of North Pershing in reference to a burglary. The investigation of the report revealed that a person or persons unknown entered a residence and took a Fender amplifier, a flat screen television and a microwave with a total value of $720.00. The report is under investigation. That night at approximately 10:20, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 200 block of South Warfel in reference to a burglary. The investigation of the report revealed a person or persons unknown entered a residence, took $275.00 cash and prescription medications. The report is under investigation. About an hour later at about 11:32, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 37-year-old male of Edgar Springs on an active arrest warrant from Dent County. The suspect was incarcerated pending a court appearance. On Tuesday afternoon, April 16th, at about 5:53 an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department in reference to an assault and property damage. The investigation of the report revealed a 21-year old male of Salem had assaulted an 18-year old female of Salem and broke the windshield valued at $300.00 out of her vehicle. Further investigation led to the arrest of the suspect for domestic assault, property damage and on an active arrest warrant from Dent County. The suspect was incarcerated pending the application of warrants and on the active arrest warrant. Then Wednesday night, the 17th, at about 9:30, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 34-year-old male of Salem for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. The suspect was issued summonses to appear in court and was released. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information regarding an ongoing investigation.

An accident happened Tuesday morning at 6:29 in Washington County on Route C just east of Route Y. According to the highway patrol report, A 2007 Jeep Liberty driven eastbound by 39-year old Kevin Hewkin of Davisville, traveled off the south side of the roadway and struck a tree. Hewkin suffered moderate injuries and was taken by the Iron County Ambulance to the Parkland Health Center in Farmington. Hewkin was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Jeep was totaled and removed from the scene by Abney’s Towing.

The Dent County Health Center Board of Trustees met Monday evening, April 15th. Health Center Director Kendra Mobray reported that the new Helmer pharmaceutical refrigerator had been installed and was working well. She also reported that lab services were provided to 88 clients during the month of March and that a site visit of the Health Center is scheduled with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services for today. Mobray went on to report that Chrysta Hinderliter attended Grow and Glow in April and will have additional WIC training May 2nd. Roma Jones reported that lodging inspections will begin soon. Mobray said that the “Choosing the Best” Program is complete at all schools and Ashley Payton attended the Teenage Pregnancy Prevention Conference in St. Louis. One case of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and one case of Campylobacteriosis was investigated in March, plus four animal bites. With warmer weather and increased outdoor activities, the Health Center encourages residents to keep their pets current on rabies vaccines and to avoid contact with stray animals. Influenza activity is winding down, but for this flu season there have been 210 confirmed cases of influenza reported for Dent County and one influenza related death. A closed session was conducted with no votes being taken. After the closed session, the board approval of the Dent County Health Center expenses for March was tabled due to a delay in reports from the accountant. The next regular meeting of the Health Center Board of Trustees will be Monday, May 20th at the Health Center at McArthur and Franklin.

The Salem Police Department has released their report for the month of March. The Salem Police performed 78 traffic stops for the month and issued 13 equipment repair orders, 9 summons to appear in court, 16 warning tickets, and 10 traffic tickets, plus they also served two city warrants and 9 fugitive warrants. The Salem Police investigated nine traffic accidents, two assaults, made one death investigation, and investigated two disorderly conduct reports. They also wrote one report on domestic violence, had two driving while being intoxicated charges, and issued four driving while having a license revoked or suspended charges. The police received two lost or stolen license plates reports, and two unlawful use of a firearm or weapon charges. The department investigated a rape, four possessions of a controlled substance charges along with two possession of drug paraphernalia charges, four reports of stealing, three property damage reports and a report of a peace disturbance. The department redirected 40 animal calls while responding to 27 ambulance assist calls, 27 well being checks and 18 requests for information for the month. The department received 971 calls during the month of March and had 76 walk- ins to the station. The department drove 7,827 miles during the month of March and spent 39 hours in court testifying and 14 hours as court Bailiff. There were 20 males and 7 females arrested in March.

The Salem Park and Recreation Board met Monday night at the Salem Community Center @The Armory. At the meeting, Park and Recreation Director Tye Lydon reported about 350 children have signed up so far for the softball, baseball and T-ball program this summer with the last day to sign up a child being Friday at 4:30 at the Salem Community Center. He reported the splash pad by Billie’s Playground will be activated on May 15th and the Alice Lou Craig Municipal Swimming Pool will officially open on May 25th. He said the pool will be prepped next week as Westport Pools will come in to prepare the pool after the water is pumped out this week. Lydon said new loungers and chairs have been purchased and the seating has been increased by three times the amount that was available last year. Lydon said the summer camp would be available this year starting June 3rd and lasting until July 19th with special events taking place on Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays. Lydon said the camp will include the Summer Food Service Program at the Salem Community Center@The Armory which is available to anyone 18 years of age and under in Dent County. The board then went into closed session to discuss real estate before coming back into open session. The Park Board approved the job description and the hiring of an Assistant Park and Recreation Director to be included in the 2019-2020 fiscal year budget. They also approved acquiring and installing a flag pole for the American flag at the Al Brown Field complex. The meeting was then adjourned.

The Dent County Commissioners met for their regular meeting Thursday morning in the Dent County Courthouse. In the hearing of persons, Travis Richards was in to talk to the Commission. In the road report, District One Commissioner Dennis Purcell said that grading would be done on Dent County Road 5390 and materials would be added to county roads 6245, 4210, 6370 and 5600. He went on to report that grading would be done and materials would be added to Dent County Roads 5100, 5103, 5105 and 5380. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson said that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2590, 2600, 4400 and 4405, while materials would be added to county roads 2590 and 2600, plus brush would be cut on county road 3180. Both Larson and Purcell reported that they had a grader operator out. Larson said that Fabick and Co. may get the grader that’s been gone for repairs back today. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles reported on the CART receipts for Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams. April’s receipts were $52,310.88, which was down from April 2018’s receipts of $55,438.98. He said that the April to April drop of $3,128.10 left the year-to-date down by $3,989.35 or 1.8%. Dent Count Clerk Angie Curley reported that there were a few bills to be approved by the Commissioners and that the meeting of the Board of Equalization date needed to be set. The Commissioners set the date for July 15th. Three bids were received for culverts from Advanced Drainage Systems, Metal Culverts and Viebrock Sales and Service. Viebrock had the low bid of $15,111.00 and it was approved by the commission by a 3–0 vote. Sheriff Bob Wells was in for the opening of the financing bids for the new vehicle. Bids were submitted by Bank of Salem, Town and Country Bank, and US Bank. The low bid of 2.84% for 3 years by Town and Country Bank was approved by the Commissioners 3-0. At last Thursday’s meeting Nick Smith and Dwight Ramsburg with Septagon along with Steve Davis with Shive-Hattery were in to update the Commission on the jail project. Sheriff Wells brought in a contract to provide inmate phone/video visitation at no cost to the county in the new jail. The Commissioners approved the contract 3-0. The next meeting of the Commissioners will be Thursday morning at the Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

A drowning occurred Sunday morning at Snow Hollow Lake in Iron County that took the life of a De Soto man. According to the water patrol report, 39-year old Zachary Daugherty was fishing from a stern pedestal seat when he suffered a seizure causing him to fall overboard and he did not resurface. Daugherty was pronounced dead at the scene by Iron County Coroner Tim Harbison. The body was taken to the Iron County Coroners office. Assisting the water patrol at the scene were MDC agents, the Pilot Knob Fire Department, Doe Run Fire Department, and Metro West Dive Team. This was the first boating fatality for Troop E in 2019.

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. You can also book your pool party for this summer as well as purchase your family pass for the Alice Lou Craig Swimming Pool. For more information on reserving a pavilion, booking a pool party or purchasing a family pass for the pool, call Park and Recreation Director Tye Lydon at 729-6290. Reservations dates on the pavilions and pool parties are made on a first come, first served basis.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released the following reports for April 12th through the 14th. On Friday, April 12th, deputies traveled to 1007 East Center Street for a warrant check. During the course of the investigation a 22-year-old Salem male was arrested for active warrants through Dent County and possession of a controlled substance. Also arrested was a 27-year-old Salem female for active warrants and possession of a controlled substance. Both subjects were transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office jail and incarcerated. Then on Sunday, April 14th, deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 2000 block of Route W. During the course of the traffic stop, a 35-year-old Salem male was arrested for three active warrants through the Dent County Sheriff’s Office for failing to appear on traffic offenses and operating a motor vehicle on a highway without a valid license, a 2nd offense. The male was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office Jail and incarcerated. Please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241 if you have any information about an ongoing investigation.

An accident occurred Friday evening at 8:00 on Route TT about 10 miles east of Bunker. A 2013 Chevrolet Silverado driven by 40-year old Ricky Holt of Bunker, was traveling southbound and ran off the right side of the road, then returned to the road and traveled off the left side of the roadway. The Silverado overturned ejecting the driver and front seat passenger 35-year old Richard Clifford. Holt and Clifford suffered serious injuries. Clifford was transported by air ambulance to Barnes Hospital in St. Louis. Holt was transported by ambulance to Salem Memorial Hospital. Clifford and Holt were not wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident. The Silverado was totaled and towed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education held a re-organizational meeting Tuesday evening at the District Administrative Offices. No Board election was held during the April 2nd Municipal Election due to only having two candidates for the two open positions so Board Secretary Holly Erway swore in re-elected board members Dr. Bernie Sirios and Dustin Howard. Bernie Sirois was elected to serve as Board President while Holly Erway was elected to serve as the Board Vice-President. The board went on to elect Carrie Snider as Board Secretary and Dustin Howard as the Board Treasurer. The board also elected Larry Maxwell to serve as the MSBA delegate with Chris Heavin elected to serve as the MSBA delegate alternate. After Superintendent John McColloch gave a current budget update, A.J. Tinker provided the board with a Constructions Trades update. He informed the board that junior Dell Hoffmeister won the state Skills USA competition and will be representing Salem High School at the National Competition this June in Louisville, Kentucky. The board approved the out-of-state trip for Hoffmeister to attend the competition. In the building reports, William Lynch Elementary Principal Kriste Crocker said the final Kindergarten Registration for the year will be May 10th. Parents of incoming kindergarteners can call the office to make an appointment. She also said Preschool Registration will be held May 15th and 16th. Parents of incoming preschoolers can call the office to make an appointment. The school number is 729-6611. Upper Elementary School Principal Melanie Wisdom reported to the board that Serendipity will take place May 2nd and their stage production of Mary Poppins, Jr. was huge success! Middle School Principal Scott Roberts reported on the grade 6 through 12 SMS/SHS Spring Band Concert at the High School Gym on May 2nd at 7:00 while the grade 6 through 12 SMS/SHS Spring Choir Concert & Awards Night will be held May 9th at 7:00. High School Principal Marty Anderson reported on the Service Project and ACT Day held April 2nd with 250 students participating. He also said preparations for Salem’s first Computer Science Principles course are in full swing with Amber Pryor registering to attend a five-day Code.org training in July. Mrs. Pryor has already created a Computer Science page on the school website. Anderson reminded the board graduation will be held Friday, May 17th at the high school football field unless there are adverse weather conditions which would force the proceedings inside the gym. The board accepted the resignations of 4th grade instructor Roxann Cochran and head basketball coach Conrad Prugh. The board then went into executive session where they employed Melissa Lettman as a 1st grade teacher, Amanda Hanger as a 3rd grade teacher and Ashlyn Cook as a 4th grade teacher. The board also employed Conrad Prugh as a High School Assistant Principal for the 2019-2020 school year. Closed session was then adjourned before the meeting was adjourned.

An accident happened Thursday afternoon at 4:50 on Bell Road about five miles south of Roby. According to the highway patrol report, 28-year old Ashley Wortman of Rolla was driving a 2006 Chevrolet Aveo when she lost control and the vehicle traveled off the roadway and impacted an embankment. The Aveo then returned to the roadway, traveled back across the roadway before going off the right side of the road where the Aveo struck a tree. Suffering moderate injuries was the Ashley Wortman of Rolla and she was taken by the Texas County EMS to the Texas County Memorial Hospital in Houston. Suffering minor injuries was a passenger, 43-year old Thomas Russell of Rolla who was also taken by the Texas County EMS to the Texas County Memorial Hospital. Russell was not wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident while Wortman was. The Chevy Aveo sustained extensive damage was removed from the scene by a private party. The highway patrol was assisted by the Texas County Sheriff’s Department at the scene.

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 the six to seven tenths of an inch of rain overnight has left roadways too wet too grade so his crew was doing equipment maintenance. He said a hydraulic leak on Dump Truck #123 was being repaired and shims were being put in Grader #24, plus some of his crew was cleaning culverts and others were replacing county road signs. Purcell went on to say that with the improving weather some good progress has been made on many of the roadways and that weather permitting materials would be added to Dent County Road 6245. He reported that Tuesday he attended the South Central Community Action Agency meeting and that funding is available for all programs including child care, Head Start, Early Head Start, weatherization, etc. Purcell said that income guidelines apply and for more information call 729-3500 and talk to Sarah. Wednesday Purcell attended a Tourism Committee meeting where one reimbursement request was submitted and approved, plus one proposal was submitted and approved. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson reported that brush would be cut on Dent County Roads 3180 and 3283, plus service work was being done on a pup trailer. He also noted that he had a man hauling rock to stock pile at the Road and Bridge Department and that right now he is short a grader and a dump truck that are being repaired. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles reported that last Thursday he attended the Transportation Advisory Committee meeting where MoDOT reported the number of potholes since the first of the year is at an all time high for 2019 compared to previous years. Later that evening Skiles attended the MRPC meeting where plans are starting for the Annual Awards Banquet and Requests for Proposals are being developed for the event. He reported that on Friday of last week and Wednesday of this week he was in Jefferson City attending the Central Region Work Force Investment Board meeting where the board was working on budget and audit issues. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported that bills were being approved by the Commissioners for payment and that Thursday afternoon she would be attending a meeting about the County/City/Chamber Website were they are working towards seeking bids on development of a new website. The next meeting of the Commissioners will be Monday morning in the Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released the following reports for April 9th through the 11th. On Tuesday, April 9th, deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 1600 block of Highway FF. During the course of the traffic stop a 33 year-old Salem male was arrested for driving while having a revoked license, 2nd offense. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, fingerprinted, issued summons and released. Then on Wednesday, April 10th, deputies were requested in the Dent County Courthouse for a court ordered preliminary breath test. Deputies arrived at the Dent County Courthouse and requested a 34 year-old Salem women to submit to the breath test. The female refused and began to yell. The female was held in contempt of court and placed under arrest. While the female was being escorted back to the Dent County Jail, she became combative and attempted to pull away from the Deputy. After attempting to pull away multiple times and refusing to cooperate with Deputies, she was escorted inside the Dent County Sheriff’s Office.
The female was incarcerated in the Dent County Sheriff’s Office for contempt of court and resisting or interfering with an arrest, stop, or detention. On Thursday, April 11th, deputies with the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and Officers with the Salem Police Department traveled to a residence near the 150 Block of County Road 5050 to attempt to locate a male with an active warrant for his arrest through probation and parole. During the course of the investigation a 27 year-old Salem male was arrested for the active probation and parole warrant and unlawful possession of a firearm. The male was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and incarcerated. Please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241 if you have any information about an ongoing investigation.