Local News

The Dent County Sheriff’s Office has released the following reports. On Wednesday, April 15th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop in the 200 block of East Truman Street. During the course of the traffic stop, a 37 year-old Salem man was arrested for operating a motor vehicle upon a highway without a valid license. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, fingerprinted, issued summons and released. Then on Friday, April 17th, deputies responded to a residence in the 1000 block of Highway W for a report of a burglary. Upon arrival, deputies discovered that a 69 year-old woman was the reported victim. The total value of the property that was stolen is approximately $1,000.00. This report is still under investigation. Finally, on Sunday, April 19th, deputies responded to a residence in the 1000 block of Dent County Road 6370 for a report of a disturbance. During the course of the investigation, a 21-year-old Salem man was arrested for armed criminal action, unlawful use of a weapon and harassment in the 1st degree. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and incarcerated. The 21-year-old is currently being held on a $50,000 cash or professional surety bond at the Dent County Sheriff’s Office Jail. Please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241 if you have any information relative to any investigation.

A one vehicle accident happened Friday afternoon around 4:15 on Gibbs Street near Warfel. The report from the Salem police department states that a 2003 Chevrolet S-10 owned and operated by Aden Melton was traveling west on East Gibbs and stated he was having mechanical issues with the vehicle. The S-10 traveled off the right side of the street striking a concrete culvert and overturned in the street coming to rest on the driver’s side. Melton, who was not wearing a safety restraint, received minor injuries. The S-10 sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing.

In challenging times, Missourians come together. The University of Missouri Extension and communities across the state are showing up for each other and working together in innovative and engaging ways to bring the resources of the University of Missouri to the people who need them. While the Dent County Extension office is closed during the statewide stay-at-home order, Dent County residents can still reach our local faculty and staff by calling 729-3196 or emailing our office at dentco@missouri.edu. Updated program announcements are available on our Dent County Extension Facebook page or by visiting extension.missouri.edu/events. Although in-person programs are postponed, the MU Extension continues to offer a range of research-based and relevant programming in online formats. An example includes the MU Soil Testing Lab. It is still open and accepting soil samples. Samples should be submitted directly to the MU Soil and Plant Testing Lab, 23 Mumford Hall, Columbia, MO 65211. Visit the lab’s website at soilplantlab.missouri.edu for detailed instructions and to generate a UPS shipping label. Make sure that you Include a completed sample information form. Forms are available for download. If you are a local food producer looking for new outlets to market your food to consumers during this time enter your farm information on the new Missouri Food Finder to help customers find your local food products at mofoodfinder.org. Youth and families looking for new activities should check out the MU 4H QuaranTIME programs at the Missouri 4-H Facebook page. A number of activities are available include cooking, ChickWatch, 4-H demonstrations and more! For questions or more info about the programs listed or resources at the Small Business Develop Centers website at sndc.missouri.edu, contact the Dent County Extension office at 729-3196 or email dentco@missouri.edu.

In conjunction with the 50th anniversary of Earth Day Thursday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency awarded a total of $1,030,000 to 23 Missouri school districts and one Missouri school bus transportation company to replace 52 older diesel school buses. The funds are part of $11.5 million to replace 580 buses for 157 school bus fleets in 43 states, each of which will receive rebates through EPA’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Act funding. The new buses will reduce pollutants that are linked to health problems such as asthma and lung damage. The only school in the area to receive the money is the Rolla 31 Public Schools. They will receive $100,000 for five buses. Applicants replacing buses with engine model years 2006 and older will receive rebates between $15,000 and $20,000 per bus, depending on the size of the bus. Since 2008, the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act program has funded more than 1,000 clean diesel projects across the country, reducing emissions in more than 70,000 buses.

On Monday, April 20th in the 42nd Judicial Circuit Court in front of Judge Megan Seay, Dent County Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Curley reported that James Judd of Winfield, Missouri, pled guilty to tampering with a motor vehicle. Judd was sentenced to serve five years in the Department of Corrections and the sentence was executed. Curley also reported last week that Lacy Carpenter, Jr of Rolla was scheduled for trial for Statutory Sodomy in the 1st degree on June 16th. Carpenter was recently found deceased in his home in Rolla. Although Curley has been unable to locate any obituary details, his family confirmed that Carpenter passed away. No further efforts to prosecute will continue as a result.

The Salem Memorial District Board of Directors will hold a special board meeting conference call today at 1:00 to discuss the SBA Payroll Protection Program Board Resolution. To access the meeting, call Karen Brown at 729-6626.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital regular board meeting was held Tuesday evening in the Hospital Library as well as through an online conference using Zoom. Hospital Administrator Kasey Lucas gave the summary of operations for the month of March where the hospital had 115 inpatient admissions with 318 inpatient census days. There were 1,700 outpatient registrations, 1,306 cardiopulmonary procedures, 9,407 lab tests, 1,294 radiology procedures, 701 rehabilitation treatments, 12 surgeries, 241 home health visits and 839 emergency room visits. There were a total of 210 ambulance runs in March with 172 patients transported and 38 dry runs. The hospital showed a loss from operations of $394,226 and had expenses over revenues after taxes of $370,011. Hospital Administrator Lucas said the contractuals in nursing, coding and billing services as well as architectural and construction expenses led the way as well as bad debt expense. Lucas said the hospital received $570,000 in direct aid for the COVID-19 expense to the hospital and that money does not have to be paid back. The hospital also will get an advance payment from CMS of about three million dollars which is about 120 days of normal receivables. This is just in case the hospital needs it and the money after 120 days will be used to cover the billing to CMS. Lucas was questioned about the job Truebridge is doing in getting the collections up-to-date and he said the first month they were trying to figure out how Salem does their billing. He said after that they have been making progress and hopes to see results with the over 90-day due VA account that has more than 1.1 million dollars outstanding. Lucas said the cash on hand has risen to 43 days from 35 last month with a positive cash flow in March of $545,496. The Acute Care Staffing and Acuity report showed an average of 10 patients per day, but the patient total went down drastically after the coronavirus alert was put out in late March. Director of Nursing Debbie Hines said there were 147 cases of the flu in the month of March after 135 in February. This flu season there have been 309 confirmed flu cases. Hospital Chief Operating Officer Jason Edwards said the Hospital Foundation still plans on having their golf tournament on June 5th and the Wings and Strings is still scheduled for September 12th. Edwards said the USDA Distance Learning and Telemedicine Program Grant meeting with the Program Field Representative Chris Collins happened on April 17th and the Certificate of Authority was completed. Edwards said with the schools currently closed, this will slow down the process, but the schools will still work with the hospital on the project. Edwards reported the support group meetings have all been postponed for the time being, but will start again after things get back to normal. In the COVID-19 update, there have been 27 tests given in Dent County with two tests pending. Sixteen of those tests have been at the Salem Hospital. They now have a drive through testing site where you can call the hospital if you have symptoms of the coronavirus to be tested. They will tell you where to park your vehicle and staff will come to your car to take the test. The staff has their own supply of masks, goggles and faceshields, they are required to wear homemade masks at work and are encouraged to wear masks outside of the work area. The hospital has a surge plan and they have daily briefings with the directors and staff to be ready. Administrator Lucas said he would schedule a finance committee meeting for the second week in May and then probably have another meeting before the board of directors meeting on May 19th. Lucas discussed the hospital expansion and renovation with the board and said the financing for the MRI has been approved and the footings for the MRI building have been poured with water and sewer lines installed. Concrete will be poured when the weather allows and remodeling is going on in the old maintenance area and the old medical records area. Currently, the administration office has been moved to the Physician Office Building 3 basement. Lucas stated the new board members swear-in would be at the June 16th meeting after the June 2nd Municipal Election. The Board approved the purchase of new blanket warmer for Acute Care from Steris Corporation that came in over budget at $9,592 before the board went into closed session.

A one vehicle accident occurred Tuesday afternoon shortly before 1:30 in Iron County on Highway 32 approximately 2 miles east of Bixby. According to the report from the highway patrol, a 2003 Harley Davidson being ridden by 43-year old Lawrence Hamrick of St. James was traveling west when he ran off the right side of the highway and overturned. Hamrick was taken by ambulance to Phelps Health for treatment of minor injuries. The Harley sustained minor damage and was removed from the scene by a private party.

Master gardener Thom Haines wants everyone to know that the Salem Community Garden behind the Salem Methodist Church is open and plots are available. The first plot is free and a second plot will cost you $10. This is a great stress reliever when working with your hands in the earth. Whether you have never done gardening before or you are master gardener, everyone is welcome to come and grow your own vegetables or fruits in the plots that have already been laid out. If you would be interested in having a plot at the Salem Community Garden or have any questions about the garden, contact Haines at 573-247-7592 or Sarah Massengale at 729-3196. Haines stated the Saturday morning workshops held once a month are currently not being held due to the need of social distancing.

The Salem Board of Aldermen held its regular meeting Monday at the City Hall Council Chambers. The board heard bids for the removal of the old roof at the city administrative offices and install new shingles. Bids were received from Ferranto Roofing, Wisdom Roofing and Woods Roofing. The board accepted the low bid from Woods Roofing for $10,380. The board reviewed the two bids received for fireworks for Independence Day. The first bid came from Fleetwood Pyrotechnics LLC and it was submitted on time for $12,524 which includes the fireworks and the discharging of them. A late bid came in from Washington Way Fireworks for $16,000. The board voted to go with Fleetwood Pyrotechnics, LLC with a 4-0 vote. City Administrator Ray Walden said the Missouri S&T student project management class continued to work on projects even after their classes were postponed. He said he expects their reports by the end of the week. Walden said WCA Waste Management will hold their spring cleanup the weeks of May 4th through the 8th and May 11th through the 15th. He said the April electric bills have been sent out and the city hopes to have the May bills sent out in a more timely manner. Walden also said that Salem businesses that qualified for SBA Emergency Disaster Loans, such as the Payroll Protection Program or the Economic Injury Disaster Loan that want to pay their utility bills with proceeds from those programs, should call the utility office at 729-4117. Walden asked the alderman to review the Records Management Policy and give feedback before the next meeting so that they can finalize the policy. Walden also brought samples of a new proposed City of Salem logo and colors for the alderman to review. He said communities like to use certain colors that attract people to the area and come up with something that can be used not only for the city, but the county and chamber as well. Walden said there are no dollars in this year’s budget to develop a logo but one needs to be done for the new website. Public Works Director Mark Nash presented a list of prioritized streets that would get the nova chip with the Park Street project being #1 at the top of the list. There is $200,000 in this year’s budget to work on the streets, but the alderman would like to get as many streets done as soon as possible during this slow time. Walden will work on a budget adjustment that would include next year’s budgeted amount for street work to be added to this year’s total for a better price on the paving product. The board approved Bill #3446 to enter into a one-year agreement with Wave Internet Technologies to allow them to use space on the water tower at Condray and Tower Streets for $100 per month. The board went on to approve by a 3-1 vote to purchase and install a RAW/WAS pump station for the waste water treatment facility. This was originally scheduled to be done in the second phase, but it had deteriorated to such a degree that it needs to be changed out soon or it will fail. Alderman James voted against it. The board also approved Resolution 7-2020 to do drainage improvements to the Salem City Park Little League fields for $23,500 by Donald Maggi, Inc. by a 3-1 vote. The money will come out of the Capital Improvement Sales Tax Fund. Alderman James again voted against the motion to approve. The board meeting was then adjourned.

The Salem Police Department has released their report for the month of March. They issued three equipment repair orders, seven summonses to appear in court, 12 warning tickets, and eleven traffic tickets, plus they also served three fugitive warrants. The Salem Police investigated six traffic accidents, wrote three property damage reports, seven stealing reports, and a death report. The department investigated wto charges of driving while having a license revoked or suspended, one possession of a controlled substance report, 6 domestic violence reports, a report of endangering the welfare of a child, along with a report of a lost or stolen license plate and a report of the failure to obey a lawful order. The department was also dispatched for 61 animal calls, 32 ambulance assist calls, and performed 48 traffic stops for the month. The Salem Police Department received 936 calls for service during the month of March and had 75 walk-ins to the station. The department drove 7,549 miles during the month of March. There were seven males and 4 females arrested in March.

The National Park Service is soliciting applications for an agricultural permit for hay cutting covering one parcel in Ozark National Scenic Riverways within Shannon County, Missouri. The Special Use Permit will be awarded based on the following criteria. First, the ability to perform the work; secondly, interest in and knowledge of the agricultural permit program within the park; and also the payment of the required annual fee. Applicants will not be allowed to bid on parcels; only the application answers will be assessed. The field available is the Cedar Bluff Field, which is 52 acres. The effective date for the permit is estimated to be May 5th this year, and the expiration date of the permit will be December 31st of 2024. Completed applications must be received by Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Van Buren no later than 4:00 in the afternoon on April 28th. Completed applications can be either mailed or emailed. For more information about the agricultural SUP program or to receive an application packet, please visit the park’s website at https://www.nps.gov/ozar/ or contact Kim Houf at (573) 944-9477.

Even in these trying times, the Missouri Department of Transportation maintenance crews continue their work to make state roadways safer for those who travel. One way motorists can help is by exercising their responsibility to keep Missouri highways free of litter. According to Natalie Roark, the state highway maintenance director, every cigarette butt, food wrapper, soda can and plastic bag thrown out of a moving vehicle creates ugly debris, detracts from the safety and beauty of Missouri’s roadsides and adds to the workload of maintenance employees who are already operating under challenging conditions. Last year, MoDOT spent $6.4 million to remove litter from more than 385,000 acres of roadsides along 34,000 state highway miles. With the department’s annual “NoMOreTrash Bash” canceled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, MoDOT is seeking even more help in keeping Missouri highways free from litter. Some ways you can help include not littering by keeping a bag for trash in your car or truck and disposing of it properly. Also, secure your load to make sure nothing blows out or off of your vehicle into the roadway. In addition to creating litter, unsecured loads can be a safety hazard to the vehicles behind you. Every effort by the public to help eliminate or by cleaning up litter helps offset MoDOT’s trash removal costs and allows the department to put more money back into maintaining Missouri’s roads and bridges.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles was not in attendance so Commissioner Gary Larson was named as the acting Presiding Commissioner for the meeting. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell said that Fabick has replaced the grader that was down with a bad transmission with a loaner to serve the Bunker area. He said materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Roads 5590 and 6470 while only grading would be done on county road 4080. Purcell indicated brush would be cut on county roads 6220 and 6230. He went on to say the grader blades on grader #38 were being changed out before it was leaving the shop. District 2 Commissioner Larson reported that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 3030, 3040, 3165, 4300 and 4330 while materials would be added and grading would be done on Dent County Road 2160. He said brush would be cut on county road 2120. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said absentee voting for the June 2nd Municipal election continues and you need to call her office and they can bring the ballot out to your vehicle. Her office number is 729-4144. She also said that you must be registered to vote by July 8th to vote in the August 4th primary that will be held for state and county government offices. You will have to pick a particular party in that election. At the last meeting, Sheriff Bob Wells brought in bids for a computer system for the jail offices and the winning bid went to Adorama from New York for $11,638.14. He also received bids on the trash service for different locations in the county that included the Road and Bridge Department, the courthouse, the sheriff’s department and the new jail. The board approved the package price from Family Trash Service for $411.50 per month. Wells also brought in an application for the Missouri Department of Public Safety LESO Program which would give them access to surplus property and Commissioner Skiles signed the application. Wells also discussed a new sign in front of the jail and recommended the commission go with the quote from Action Graphics. Wells went on to talk with the commissioners about the concrete pad/carport fence at the end of the storage buildings. He said he would get back with the commissioners with a quote at a later date. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

Out of an abundance of caution and in response to the extension of the statewide “Stay Home Missouri” Order, Missouri State Parks is extending temporary closures of campgrounds, park-run lodging, offices and visitor centers and extending the suspension of special events and programming through May 3rd. This suspension includes Missouri State Parks special events, including both on- and off-site programming, third party events, group reservations and guided tours. Missouri State Park visitor centers, offices, campgrounds and lodging will remain closed through May 3. Most state parks and state historic sites will remain open for day-use, with the exception of temporary closures at five state parks to address overcrowding and concerns regarding public safety. State park temporary closures in the immediate area through May 3rd includes the temporary closure of Elephant Rocks State Park. Gates to individual parking lots may close at all state parks when the lot is near capacity. For questions regarding state park or historic site campground or park-run lodging, please call the Reservation Call Center at 1-877-422-6766. The call center is open daily from 7:00 in the morning until 7:00 at night. For an existing reservation with concessionaire lodging in the immediate area, call Echo Bluff State Park at 844-322-3246 or Montauk State Park at 573-548-2434.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors will conduct their April meetin this evening in the hospital library beginning at 6:00. After approval of the agenda and minutes of the March 17th regular meeting, Hospital Administrator Kasey Lucas will report on the summary of the operations for the month of March, a Home Health report and hospital auxiliary report followed by the Chief of Nursing Report for the month by Debbie Hines. A report on the hospital foundation, plus the marketing and community perception report will be given by Chief Operating Officer Jason Edwards. In old business the Board will review the FY’21 Finance Committee Report, receive a COVIC-19 update, plus be updated on the Hospital Expansion and Renovation. New business will include the Board Director Swear-in postponement until June 16th, 2020. Due to COVIC-19 social distancing guidelines the April meeting of the Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors will be held by telephone/video conference. The meeting is open to the public. For information to access the meeting, please email kbrown@smdh.net or call (573) 729-5917, extension 4005.

This week is Work Zone Awareness week and the Missouri Department of Transportation is using this week as a nation-wide reminder of the potential dangers of driving through work zones. Although traffic levels are currently lighter than normal, department officials and local law enforcement are seeing a corresponding increase in speeds. In addition, much of the existing work will remain in place through the remainder of the year, after many of the stay-at-home restrictions have been lifted. MoDOT St. Louis District Engineer Tom Blair says that work zones can change rapidly from day to day, as crews work on the many construction projects needed to keep Missouri roadways operational for years to come. In addition, they have many maintenance teams out repairing potholes, picking up trash and many other tasks to keep our roads safe for travel, as well as movement of goods and supplies. They ask that drivers slow down and pay attention as they see our crews out there; move over if they can to give a little extra room, buckle up and put down cell phones and other distractions. So far this year, 10 MoDOT employees have been struck. All of those crashes have been into truck mounted attenuators, vehicles that protect MoDOT employees by helping catch and stop vehicles that may be heading into a work zone. Across the state, 18 Missourians died in crashes in work zones in 2019.

The Salem License Bureau located in the Crossroads Shopping Center is open for business again. They ask that you please use social distancing when waiting in line.

The State of Missouri has awarded $3 million in grants to help expand broadband internet access in Missouri. In a press release from Governor Mike Parson’s office, it says sixteen companies are getting the funding to offer high-speed service to more than 4,400 Missouri homes, businesses and farms. The latest Federal Communications Commission data shows nearly 600,000 rural Missourians lack access to broadband internet. According to Missouri Department of Economic Development Director Rob Dixon, it is crucial that Missourians have an opportunity to get connected during this time in which many citizens have been instructed to stay home. Reliable internet access is critical to meet needs for education, telemedicine, telecommuting, and overall quality of life. One of the recipients was the Steelville Telephone Exchange and they are to provide service to the Bixby area. They received $445,917 to do the project.

A fatal accident occurred on Friday afternoon at 2:48 in Crawford County on Highway 19 on Lindberg Road about four miles south of Cuba. According to the highway patrol report, a 2004 Western Star Tractor Trailer driven by 32-year old James Kramer of Park Hills, MO, was traveling southbound when he swerved to avoid striking an unidentified vehicle in front of him. The tractor trailer crossed the center line where the tractor trailer stuck a 2009 Chevrolet Express Van driven northbound by 52-year old Sergio Navarro from Cuba. A 2011 GMC Yukon also driven northbound by 40-year old Betty Counts of Steelville, swerved to the right to avoid hitting the Chevrolet Express Van. The Yukon crossed Lindberg Road and came to rest against an embankment. Navarro was pronounced dead at the scene by the Crawford County Deputy Coroner Darren Drake at 2:56 that afternoon and the body was transported by the coroner to Hutson Funeral Home in Cuba. Counts suffered moderate injuries and was transported to the Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan by North Crawford Ambulance. Two occupants of the Yukon, a 12-year old female and a 15-year old male, also suffered moderate injuries and were transported to the Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan by Steelville Ambulance. All injured parties were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident except Counts. The tractor trailer sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by Big Boys Towing. The Chevrolet Express Van was totaled and removed from the scene by Chris and Sons Towing. The Yukon also sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by Miles and Sons Towing. The highway patrol was assisted by the Crawford County Sheriffs Department, North Crawford County Ambulance, the Steelville Ambulance, the Cuba Police Department and the Cuba Fire Department.

The Salem Board of Aldermen will be meeting tonight at 7:00 at the City Hall Auditorium at 202 North Washington. The board will hear bids on tearing off the old roof at the City Administration Building and installing new shingles, as well as bids on fireworks for the 2020 Independence Day Fireworks Display. After the consent agenda, the board will hear from City Administrator Ray Walden about current city projects and a records management policy. The board will also hear feedback on the City of Salem branding color logos that were presented in an online video conference. In the introduction and reading of bills, the board will hear Bill #3446 which is an ordinance authorizing the mayor to act as a representative of the city to execute a tower lease agreement between the city and Wave Internet Technologies, LLC for the installation of a wireless broadband access point on the water tower at the corner of Tower and Condray Streets for one year. They will also hear Bill #3447 that allows the mayor to sign all the documents necessary to proceed with the purchase and installation of a RAS/WAS pump station and associated appurtenances. Finally, the board will hear Resolution #7-2020 that would authorize the mayor to sign a proposal between the City of Salem and Donald Maggi, Inc. for drainage improvements to be made at the Salem Little League Baseball Field at 1100 West Rolla Road. The meeting will then be adjourned. The meeting is open to the public and social distancing will be enforced. The meeting can also be live streamed on the KSMO radio website at www.ksmoradio.com.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education in closed session Thursday night hired Derek Freeman as the Head Track Coach along with Dylan Wyrick and Travis Sampson Assistant Track Coaches. They also employed Kristen Williams as the Middle School Volleyball Coach, Courtney Smith as the Middle School Cheerleading Coach, and Andy Felkerson as an assistant Boys basketball Coach and High School Math Teacher. Also in closed session, classified staff building lists were shared with the board and a personnel issue was discussed before they adjourned.

Salem R-80 High School Principal Marty Anderson reported at the Salem R-80 Board meeting Thursday night that Salem will utilize the 3rd Quarter Grades as of March 6th as the core of the 2nd Semester Grades. He said students completing extra credit homework will impact their established 3rd quarter grades, plus for each week of homework a student completes, they will receive an average daily grade of extra credit in a class of their choice. Anderson stated that if the school cannot arrange for students to physically turn in the homework packet handed out on the last day of school by May 1st, extra credit will be awarded automatically. He said the semester grades will be posted on May 15th and Senior Transcripts will be ready for post secondary requests.

Thursday, Governor Mike Parson extended the statewide “Stay Home Missouri” Order through Sunday, May 3rd and announced the state’s initial framework to help Missouri safely and gradually move into the recovery phase of COVID-19. Between now and May 4th, the Governor’s Office will continue to monitor the situation and work with Missouri’s hospitals, health care providers, public health experts, business leaders, and state departments to develop a plan. The state’s approach to recovery will be deliberate and data-driven with two initial phases intended to protect those most at risk of exposure to COVID-19 while returning Missouri to a new normal. This approach will combine a number of sources data specific to Missouri, allowing state leaders to evaluate the situation locally, regionally, and statewide.

In an effort to prevent taxpayers in need from being victimized by criminals using the recently approved stimulus payments as an opportunity to commit a crime, Special Agent in Charge Karl Stiften from the internal Revenue Service offers the following information and tips to spot a scam and understand how the COVID-19 related economic impact payments will be issued. Stiften says the IRS will deposit your check into the direct deposit account you previously provided on your tax return or if you received paper tax refund checks, you will receive a paper check. He says the IRS will not call and ask you to verify your payment details. Do not give out your bank account or any other account information – even if someone claims it’s necessary to get your check. It’s a scam. If you receive a call, don’t engage with scammers or thieves, even if you want to tell them that you know it’s a scam, or you think that you can beat them. Just hang up. Stiften said if you receive texts or emails claiming that you can get your money faster by sending personal information or clicking on links, delete them. Don’t click on any links in those emails or texts. He also said there are some reports about bogus checks being sent. If you receive a “check” for an odd amount, especially one with cents, or a check that requires that you verify the check online or by calling a number, it’s a fraud. Scammers may try to get you to sign over your check to them or use this as an opportunity to get you to “verify” your filing information in order to receive your money, and then use your personal information at a later date to file false tax returns in an identity theft scheme. Because of this, everyone receiving a COVID-19 related economic impact payment from the government is at risk. Don’t become a victim by allowing criminals to exploit your emotions. Stay strong, tell your family, friends and neighbors about these scams. The IRS Criminal Investigation is prepared to investigate and bring to justice those who seek to take advantage of citizens who are the intended recipients of these economic impact payments. You can always report scams to the IRS on the website at www.irs.gov/privacy-disclosure/report-phishing

The Salem R-80 Board of Education held their regular meeting Thursday evening at the district administrative offices. Superintendent John McCollloch discussed the budget and said the R-80 district is in pretty good shape. He said the expenditures were about $370,000 over last year but that is after Salem was hit with the special insurance assessment of about $500,000 and another $250,000 for the LED lighting project. McColloch said with school being out there will be some savings on utilities and supplies, plus there will be money from the CARES act coming. He said this year should be fine, but he was worried about next year with the current economy. He said the Capital Improvement Fund has about 1.089 million dollars, but he said there will be no weighted ADA dollars added to that fund this year. It will be needed in Fund 1 for operations so large capital projects will be put on hold for the time being. McColloch said by keeping the money in Fund 1, the school will have reserves of about 30% for next year. He said the year-end balance should be about 3.8 million dollars. He said in preparing next year’s budget, he is being very conservative with revenue amounts. McColloch then talked about health insurance for employees for the upcoming school year. He said he was able to get MEUHP Self Funded Trust of about 90 schools to give him a quote of $466.00 per month per employee with a deductible of $4,500. He also said he was able to get a quote from United Health Care. Their base plan offers a $4,500 deductible with a maximum of $6,500 out of pocket costs. That policy is also a Health Savings Account. The CORE program though does not include Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis and Mercy Hospital in Springfield. The cost of that program is $449.33 per month which is lower that the current rate of $456.53. That rate will save the school district about $16,500.00. The United Health Care plans will have buy up options for the employees to get better coverage or lower their deductibles. The board approved going with the United Health Care Plan 4500HSA CORE for $449.33 per month as their base rate with the offer to allow employees to pay for buy up options such as Choice and PPO plans. McColloch wanted to thank the Judson Young Foundation for the donation to pay for the property at 1407 West Rolla Road that cost $51,100 plus back taxes that were owed. McColloch said the house is in bad shape but invited board members to check it out to see if they would like to have the construction trade program work on it. He said the windows are broken out, the carpet is bad and a lot of work is needed. He went ahead and got a bid from Mike Godi to tear down the house and remove all materials and fill in for $5,500. The board took no action until they can visit the house. The board discussed the Vo-Ag Building electrical update that is needed. McColloch said only one bid was received and that was from McNew Electric for $69,500 that includes revamping the entire electrical system in the building plus rewiring. The board approved moving forward with the bid that will be paid for out of the Capital Improvement Fund. The board accepted the resignations of Sally McColloch as an art teacher, Kristina Bermudez as the Middle School Volleyball Coach, and David Schatz as the band director. High School Principal Marty Anderson made proposals for an alternative graduation ceremony. He proposed June 27th as the graduation date with June 25th being prom. This decision would have to be reached two weeks prior to the ceremony on June 13th by the superintendent based on the recommendation of the Dent County Health Center as well as other safety factors. If that date is not approved, Anderson suggested dates in late July or late August as well. If graduation is to be held, the school will distribute the information through their web page, KSMO and the Salem News. The board then went into closed session.

Governor Mike Parson announced that Missouri will receive a $152.4 million grant for 75 state airports to help respond to the COVID-19 crisis. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced the grants to states as part of the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Grant amounts for local Missouri airports ranged from $1,000 to $157,000. These funds can be used for any purpose for which airport revenue could otherwise be used. This means these funds are available for operating costs (salaries, utilities, etc.), and they can also be used for airport development. The Salem Memorial Airport will receive $20,000 from this grant and it requires no match.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education regular monthly meeting will be held tonight at 6:00 at the District Administrative Offices Board Room. After the consent agenda and communications, Superintendent John McColloch will give a budget update, health insurance update, and give information about property purchase. In new business, the board will consider a Vo Ag Electrical bid. The Board will then hear resignations before adjourning and moving into closed session to discuss personnel. The regular April meeting of the Salem R-80 Board of Education is open to the public.

The University of Missouri and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service will postpone their annual series of management-intensive grazing schools in 2020 due to safety concerns about COVID-19. Organizers will look at the situation in late May to consider options according to MU Extension forage specialist Craig Roberts. The NRCS and MU Extension specialists hold more than 30 regional grazing schools annually during the forage growing season. This period will intersect with the projected peak of coronavirus spread in Missouri during May and gradual decrease through June and July. Now in its 30th year, the program has become the go-to school for Midwestern forage producers. Controlled grazing results in higher-quality grass, less waste and more pounds of livestock gains per acre. Since the 1980s, MU has helped cattle producers learn better grazing techniques through MU’s pioneering grazing research. Over time, the grazing schools have attracted more partners such as the Missouri Department of Conservation, Missouri Forage and Grassland Council and Missouri Department of Agriculture. The partners contribute research, cost-share incentives and educational outreach to promote the adoption of management- intensive grazing. Missouri has the nation’s third-largest cow-calf herd, the second-largest number of beef producers and the seventh-largest number of dairy farms. Missouri also is the second-largest producer of grass hay. No other Missouri agricultural enterprise covers more acres, generates more real income or engages as many citizens. For more information, contact your local NRCS field office or MU Extension center, or contact the Missouri Forage and Grassland Council at 573-338-1772.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) announces the kids’ fishing day events scheduled at the state’s trout parks have been cancelled this year amid concerns over the coronavirus. The kids’ fishing day events cancelled include those on May 2nd at Montauk State Park near Salem and Bennett Spring State Park in Lebanon; and those scheduled for May 16th at Roaring River State Park near Cassville and Maramec Spring Park in St. James. In order to protect the public amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, MDC has extended the temporary closures of its facilities and cancellations of all public events and programs through April 30th. Closures include regional offices, department headquarters in Jefferson City, staffed shooting ranges, nature centers, visitor centers, and education centers. MDC has also temporarily cancelled public events and programs, including hunter education classes, nature center programs and events, shooting range programs and events, and landowner workshops. All conservation areas, nature center trails, and boat accesses remain open to the public. Remember, the waiver for not needing a fishing license in the state passed yesterday so you MUST have a current fishing license so all anglers will need to have a fishing permit, unless exempt. Trout anglers will also need required fishing permits but will not need a daily trout tag at the three open trout parks until further notice. Meramec Spring Park currently is closed. Trout anglers fishing other areas around the state, including lakes and streams not at a trout park, need both a fishing permit and trout permit. MDC reminds the public to enjoy responsible recreation by continuing to maintain physical distance in the outdoors and avoid popular areas where people may congregate. Additionally, continue handwashing and sanitizing and travel in a group of 10 people or less.

The Salem Police Department has released reports for April 5th and 6th. On Sunday, April 5th around 1:00 in the afternoon, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart for a report of a shoplifter. It was reported that a male and a female had shoplifted $33.59 worth of merchandise from the store and left without paying for them. As a result of the investigation both subjects, a 57-year-old Salem male and a 19-year-old Salem female were arrested for shoplifting. The male subject was also found in possession of methamphetamine. Both subjects were released on summons. That same evening at about 7:41, an officer made contact with a 58-year-old man from Salem who had an active warrant for his arrest out of Christian County. The male was arrested and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail awaiting extradition on the warrant. On Monday, April 6th at 7:11, an officer was dispatched to the 600 block of south Hickory for a report of stealing out of a motor vehicle. It was reported by the victim that a tan Smith and Wesson M&P 2.0 9mm was stolen out of the center console of his vehicle. This investigation is currently still active and ongoing. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information about any investigations.

With school being cancelled for the rest of the year as ordered by Governor Mike Parson, free breakfast and lunches for children age 18 and under are still available at a number of locations through May 15th. These meals are available for ALL children. It doesn’t matter if you attended Salem R-80, any of the rural schools or were home schooled. In town meals can be picked up at Salem Upper Elementary at 1601 Doss Road from 10:30 until 12:00. This location is primarily for those living south of Highway 32/72 and those that live south of the city limits. The second in town location will be the US Foods Parking lot at 502 South Carty Street from 10:30 to 10:50 for those living north of 32/72 and east of Highway 19. The final in town location will be the Southwest Baptist University at 501 South Grand from 11:00 until 11:20 for those that live north of Highway 32/72 and west of Highway 19, as well as those living west and north outside the city limits. Out of town locations will include Junction of P Highway and Dent County Road 5070 from 10:30 until 10:50. This location is primarily for those living on P Highway and the surrounding county roads. The second out of town location will be the Junction of Highway 32/72 and Dent County Road 4235, near the old candy stripped store, from 11:00 until 11:20 for those living east on Highway 32/72 and the surrounding county roads between Highway P and Highway W. The final out of town location will be at the Junction of Highway 32/72 and Highway W from 11:30 until 11:50. This location is mainly for those living east on Highway 32/72 past Highway W, as well as those living on Highway W and the surrounding county roads.

The Salem Police Department has released reports for March 28th through the 30th. On the evening of March 28th at approximately 7:48 an officer was flagged down at the gas pumps at Phil Mart in reference to a disturbance that had taken place. It was reported that there was a verbal argument over another subject damaging the reporting parties’ vehicle. A description of the vehicle was given out and area officers located the vehicle. As a result of the investigation a 38-year-old Salem man was arrested and issued a summons for driving while revoked. The next day, Sunday the 29th, approximately 9:51 in the morning an officer was dispatched to the 600 block of East Coffman for a report of property damage. After meeting with the victim it was reported that a tire on their vehicle had been slashed. This incident is still under investigation. Later that same afternoon at around 12:47 an officer was dispatched to the Ranch Motel for a report of a theft from a motor vehicle. Upon arrival the officer was contacted by the victim and informed that someone had stolen an amplifier out of his trunk. The amplifier was valued at $150. This incident is still under investigation. On Monday the 30th at around 10:37 in the morning an officer was dispatched to the 1200 block of west Rolla Road for a report of property damage. It was reported that someone had damaged a Coca-Cola vending machine. This incident is still under investigation. Later that afternoon at around 4:30 an Officer was dispatched to SMDH to transport a 26-year-old female from Webb City for a 96-hour evaluation. The female was transported without incident to Phelps County Regional Medical Center and released to hospital staff. Then on the morning of Thursday, April 2nd at 7:51 an officer was dispatched to the 500 block of south Warfel for a report of a theft from a motor vehicle. It was reported that a vehicle had been broken into and a debit card and a tire gauge was taken out of the center console. The incident is still under investigation. That same morning at 10:20 an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart for a report of a stolen purse. It was reported that the purse was left in a shopping cart and the suspects were seen on video surveillance entering the bathroom with the purse. This investigation is still ongoing. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any investigation.

For now, the University of Missouri Soil and Plant Testing Laboratory remains open. They understand the essential role the lab plays in supporting Missouri’s agricultural industry and as long as they can continue to operate safely, the MU Soil Testing Laboratory in Columbia will continue to accept samples. The MU Soil and Plant Testing Lab has served farmers and homeowners for at least 70 years. Tests provide unbiased, research-based recommendations for efficient nutrient management and improved production. Due to COVID-19, many MU Extension centers are not currently accessible. If your county extension center is closed at this time, you can submit your samples directly to the MU Soil and Plant Testing Lab, 23 Mumford Hall, Columbia, MO 65211. Visit the lab’s website at soilplantlab.missouri.edu for detailed instructions and to generate a UPS shipping label. Include a completed sample information form. Forms are available for download. Just click on the “soil analysis” tab and proceed to the bottom of the page and click on “Forms for Samples.” For questions, visit soilplantlab.missouri.edu or call 573-882-0623.

The Dent County Sheriffs department has released some reports. On Friday, April 10th, a deputy traveled to the Salem Memorial District Hospital for a report of a verbal disturbance in the parking lot. Upon his arrival and investigation, a 31-year-old Salem woman was arrested for having active arrest warrants through Dent County. The woman was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and was incarcerated. That same day a deputy traveled to 404 South Warfel for the report of a domestic disturbance. During the course of the incident, a 41-year-old Salem woman was arrested for having an active arrest warrant through Christian County. The woman was arrested and transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where she later posted bond and was released. Then on Saturday, April 11th, a deputy traveled to a residence in the 7500 block of South Highway 19 for a report of a burglary. Upon arrival, the deputy discovered that a 69-year-old woman was the reported victim. The total value of the property which had been stolen was approximately $8,000.00. This report is still under investigation. Please contact the Dent County Sheriffs office at 729-3241 if you have any information on these investigations.

The Dent Commissioners met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams presented the sales tax monies received by the county in April. It showed that in 2019, the General Revenue sales tax was $105,219.98 while this year the county received $80,783.40. That is a $24,436.64 decrease comparing April 2020 and April 2019. Year-to-date, the county has received $22,927.19 less than for this time last year in General Revenue. The Road and Bridge Department received $36,363.00 this April while last year during April the county received $48,661.70. That is reduction of $12,298.70 for the month and that fund is down year-to-date by over $9,240.28 which is a 5.94% reduction. Each jail fund received $72,690.37 from the collections in April, but that month-to-date total for each fund is down $24,534.21 and year-to-date, each fund is $17,617.17 less than last year. The money received due to the Secure Rural Schools Act from the National Forest came to $208,935.62. The Road and Bridge Fund will receive 25% of that amount which comes to $52,233.91. The other 75% of the funds will be disbursed to school districts with Salem R-80 receiving $38,329.24; Bunker R-3 will get $60,643.55; Oak Hill R-1 will receive $31,653.75; the Iron County C-4 school will get $24,745.20 and Northwood R-4 will receive $1,331.97. Dent County Collector Shannon VanKirk reported collections during the month of March came to $143,865.78 and that is down from the March 2019 collection report. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell said crews would be out checking roads for downed tree and limbs and possibly some washouts. Purcell stated that some grading or patch grading would occur on Dent County Road 5150 and roads in the 2400’s north of Highway 32, and brush was to be cut on county roads 5510 and 6255. Purcell stated that the transmission went out on the Cat grader that serves the Bunker area. They are looking for a loaner to replace the Cat grader while that one is being repaired. Purcell also reported on the 2% Dent County Tourism tax income for the month of March and it was down $804.06 from the March figure of last year. Commissioner Gary Larson reported grading would be done on Dent County Roads 3370 and 4030 while materials would be added and grading done on county road 2070. Larson said two men were working on dump truck #115 and then they would be hauling rock. Preisidng Commissioner Darrell Skiles stated he has been attending numerous COVID-19 meetings with Dent County Health Director Kendra Mobray and Dent County Emergency Director Brad Nash about the virus. Skiles said Dent County still does not have a reported case. He does say that with the “stay at home” order, the economic impact the county faces will be tremendous and he is asking every office holder to be overly conservative in their spending. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said absentee voting continues until June 1st for the June 2nd Municipal election. She said the last day to mail out an absentee ballot will be May 20th. She said the county and state primary will be held on August 4th. She mentioned that she balanced with the treasurer on all accounts for the month of March. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday, April 20th at the courthouse at 9:00 in the morning and the meeting is open to the public.

University of Missouri Extension is offering online town hall meetings led by agronomy, livestock and horticulture specialists. State and regional extension specialists will hold the weekly town hall question-and-answer sessions on Wednesdays. The times and topics are 11:00 in the morning until noon for home horticulture; from noon until 1:00 for commercial horticulture; from 1:30 to 2:30 in the afternoon for forages and livestock; and from 2:30 to 3:30 PM for field crops. The sessions will be via the Zoom teleconferencing system. Registration is required to receive email with the Zoom link and instructions. Register and submit questions at ipm.missouri.edu/TownHalls.

Time is running out to get a variety of low cost native tree and shrub seedlings from the Missouri Department of Conservation’s George O. White State Forest Nursery near Licking. Right now they are offering residents a variety of those low-cost native tree and shrub seedlings for reforestation, windbreaks, erosion control, and wildlife food and cover. Orders are being accepted through TOMORROW! The Department of Conservation has extended the seedling shipping time frame through the end of May. According to MDC, the shipping season typically winds down in early May after nursery staff has shipped millions of seedlings to schools, landowners, and MDC staff for planting all over the state. Since the precautionary measures were put in place to decrease the spread of COVID-19, the nursery has been closed to the public and they have plenty of seedlings left. Order your seedlings online: mdc.mo.gov/seedlings, or fax an order form to 573-674-4047. Contact the nursery at 674-3229 or email them for an order form: StateForestNursery@mdc.mo.gov. You can take a virtual tour of the nursery are available at short.mdc.mo.gov/Zey.

The Missouri Department of Revenue wants the public to know that the new REAL ID compliant driver’s license and ID cards are now available. The Department began offering REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses and ID cards last year in March. Under Missouri law, applying for a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card is optional. Effective this October 1st, residents of every U.S. state and territory will be required to present a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, or another form of ID accepted by the Transportation Security Administration, to board federally regulated domestic flights. Individuals will also be required to present a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, or another form of acceptable ID, to access federal facilities, including military bases and federal courthouses, and to enter nuclear power plants. “REAL ID” comes from the REAL ID Act of 2005, a federal law that focused on fraud protection, anti-terrorism, and driver licenses and non-driver ID card security. The REAL ID Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver licenses and ID cards and prohibits federal agencies from accepting for official purposes driver licenses and ID cards from states that do not meet these standards. You can apply for your REAL ID at the Salem License office next week when they reopen on Monday, April 20th. For more information, visit
dor.mo.gov/drivers/real-id-information.

Following state and federal guidance, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is extending the temporary closures of its facilities and cancellations of its public events and programs through April 30th. MDC will reassess the situation at that time. To help protect people amid increasing coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns, MDC temporarily closed its regional offices, department headquarters in Jefferson City, staffed shooting ranges, nature centers, visitor centers, and educational centers around the state to the public in March. MDC also temporarily cancelled its public events and programs, including hunter education classes, nature center programs and events, shooting range programs and events, and landowner workshops. While MDC offices are closed to general visitation, offices will still be staffed. Visitors with official business will need to notify the office to gain access. Find MDC office contact information at mdc.mo.gov. Conservation areas, nature center trails, and boat accesses remain open to the public. Hunting, fishing, and trapping seasons continue as scheduled. MDC managed hunts and mentored spring turkey hunts continue as planned. For more information on MDC, to contact MDC offices, to buy permits, and more, visit MDC online at mdc.mo.gov.

The following is a listing of general highway maintenance and construction work in the mid-Missouri area for the period of April 13th through the17th. The projects listed will include lane closures that could cause traffic delays. Work will take place during the entire week, unless otherwise noted. Weather conditions may postpone the work schedule. In Dent County, pavement repair will take place on Highway 19 between Highway 68 and Route TT, and on Highway 32 between Highway 19 and Highway 72. Edge rut repair will take place on Highway 68 between Route FF and Highway 19, and on Route B between Highway 19 and Highway 72. MoDOT reminds motorists to buckle up, slow down, follow posted signs and drive safely through work areas. For more information about a project, please contact MoDOT at 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636). You can also follow MoDOT’s Central Missouri District on Twitter and Facebook.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways asks for assistance from the public to identify those responsible for a recent wildfire and to prevent future arson in the park. Each year, several wildfires within the Riverways are caused by arson. While carefully planned prescribed burning has a variety of benefits for Ozark landscapes and ecosystems, wildfires caused by arson have the potential to damage natural and cultural resources, historic structures, and private dwellings within the park boundary. Landmarks such as the Wallace Barn near Devils Well, consumed in an arson fire in August 2016, are forever lost. Responding to wildfires also puts the lives of firefighters at risk. Recently, the Pot Hole Wildfire, near Pulltite Campground, burned within sight of a private dwelling that had been rebuilt after a previous wildfire destroyed the original cabin. The National Park Service is offering up to $10,000 for information that leads to convictions in arson cases. If you have information that can help catch arsonists, please provide as much information as you can about the suspected arson, including the location, date and time of the fire; the description of vehicles or persons observed at the scene; any names of persons responsible or involved plus any other pertinent information. Caller’s contact information will be needed for reward purposes. To report an arson, call or text the Investigative Services Branch Tip line at 888-653-0009 or E-mail to nps_isb@nps.gov.

Dent County Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Curley reported that in the 42nd Judicial Circuit Court on Friday in front of Judge Megan Seay, Herbert helms of Salem had his probation revoked and he was sentenced to five years in the Department of Corrections. Also on Friday, Curley reported that Heath Bradley who was incarcerated in the Department of Corrections under a long-term treatment order of one year for charges involving the felony possession of a controlled substance and for receiving stolen property, incurred a conduct violation while in the program. Judge Seay ordered that his seven year sentence now be fully executed.

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol announces that the Patrol is extending the suspension of all written and skills-based driver road testing at all locations until April 27th, 2020. This includes operator, commercial driver license, and motorcycle testing. In addition, the Patrol is extending the suspension of all salvage inspections at all locations and all bus inspections until April 27th. This does not affect local businesses that are the providers of safety and emission inspections for the public and may continue to be open for services depending on their circumstances. The Patrol is monitoring the status of the COVID-19 pandemic and will update the public on testing and inspections as more information becomes available. The Missouri State Highway Patrol appreciates the public’s cooperation in this effort to ensure public health and safety.