Local News

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the Courthouse for their regular meeting. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles was not at the meeting due to a previous commitment. Commissioner Dennis Purcell acted as the presiding commissioner for the meeting and gave the road report for District 1. He stated workers would be installing crossover pipes and adding materials to Dent County Roads 5610, 5615 and 5680. He also said workers would be servicing and doing ditch work on county road 4080. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson also said workers would be installing crossover pipes and adding materials to Dent County Roads 2020 and 2570. He said brush would be cut on county road 4280 and a radiator hose will be replaced on Grader #32. Larson also indicated that a person had reported a tree down on county road 3020. He said someone had cleared away part of the tree to make the road passable, but workers would finish removing the tree. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported that her office and the treasurer’s office balanced on all accounts for the month of June, plus her office and the collector’s office and the assessor’s office balanced on all abatements, add-ons and collections for the month of June. Curley said absentee voting continues in her office through August 3rd while anyone wanting a ballot to be mailed out need to request that from her office by July 22nd. Dent County Collector Denita Williams presented the commissioners with the sales tax reports for the money received by the county in July. In the General Revenue Fund and Law Enforcement Sales Tax Fund, the county received just over $74,994.00 in July which was about $506.00 less than in June of 2019, but year-to-date, the both funds are up about $30,225.00. The Road and Bridge Fund received $35,773.10 and that was down $25.62 from last July’s receipts, but year-to date, the funds are up $18,540.35. Both of the jail funds received $71,418.99 and they were down from last year by $35.85, while year-to-date, both funds are up $35,410.19. At the last meeting, the commissioners received three CARES Act applications for reimbursement and all three were approved. The three entities were Green Forest R-2 for $1,669.10; Dent-Phelps R-3 for $1,365.94 and the Dent County Health Department for $11,561.03. The commissioners also agreed in a unanimous vote to set the maximum a public entity can get from the CARES Act funding at $125,000. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Salem Police Department has released a number of reports for the first week of July. On the first day of July near 8:00 in the evening, an officer was made aware of a male subject who had numerous felony warrants walking in the 500 block of South Pershing. Contact was made with the male subject and when he was made aware he was being arrested, the man fled on foot from the scene. A short time later the 29-year-old Salem male was taken into custody. Also located on his person was methamphetamine paraphernalia. He was transported to the Dent County Jail for incarceration on his warrants. Charges of resisting arrest and possession of drug paraphernalia are being sought. On Thursday, July 2nd around 2:30, an officer responded to the 800 block of East Gibbs to attempt to make contact with a male subject who had not properly registered as a sex offender. The address on East Gibbs was the registered address for the man. After a short investigation it was found that the man had not lived at the residence in over a month. Information was obtained by the officer about the whereabouts of this person. As a result of the investigation, a 42-year-old Salem man was located at an unregistered address and arrested for failing to register. The male subject was transported to the Dent County Jail and placed on a 24-hour hold pending the application of warrants. That same evening near 11:45, an officer was on traffic patrol when a car was traveling south on Highway 19 at a high rate of speed. The officer conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle near the intersection of Highway 19 and Highway 32. It was also found the vehicle had expired registration. Contact was made with the driver and signs of intoxication were visible. The driver was asked to exit the vehicle and complete a series of standardized field sobriety tests. As a result of the investigation a 22-year-old male from Westphalia was arrested for driving while being intoxicated. The male subject was also found to have an active arrest warrant out of St. James Police Department. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail for incarceration on the warrant. The male was issued a summons to appear in court for the traffic violations and for driving while being intoxicated. On Friday, June 3rd near 12:45 in the afternoon, an officer was on routine traffic patrol. The officer observed a blue Chrysler van traveling on Highway 19 with expired registration. A traffic stop was conducted in the McDonald’s parking lot. Contact was made with the driver and he was found to have a revoked driver’s license and had an arrest warrant out of Phelps County. As a result of the stop, a 36-year old Salem man was arrested for driving while having his license revoked and the Phelps County arrest warrant. The male was taken to the Dent County Jail and issued a summons for driving while having his license revoked and was incarcerated pending extradition or posting bond. Please call the Salem Police Department at 729-4242 if you have information regarding any ongoing investigation.

The Dent County Health Center announces the 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th Positive COVID-19 Cases. These individuals are now in isolation in their homes. All close contacts to these have been identified, and notified of their exposure, and given quarantine instructions. The following locations have been identified as places of possible exposure from all four cases. People at these locations are at a low risk for contracting COVID-19 but should monitor for symptoms. On Sunday, July 5th a person was at the First Baptist Church for worship service from 10:00 to 11:30 in the morning, then went to Bigos Mexican Restaurant and was there from 11:30 in the morning until 12:30 in the afternoon. Also on Monday, July 6th, a person who tested positive was at the Salem Wal-Mart from 4:30 to 4:45 in the afternoon. To reduce risk and prevent the spread of COVID-19, people are encourage to follow preventative measures such as washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands; stay home if you are sick, cover any coughs and sneezes, and you should clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces frequently. Wearing a mask is optional, but should be seriously if you are going to be in the vicinity of a lot of people. If you suspect that you have COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, and are experiencing symptoms, call your healthcare provider to let them know before seeking care. It is critical that your provider is aware that you may have COVID-19 prior to your arrival at a healthcare facility, and that you follow all instructions for arriving at the healthcare facility. For more information, contact the Dent County Health Center at 729-3106.

An accident happened in Iron County Saturday afternoon at 4:00 on a private road about a mile and a half east of Viburnum. According to the highway patrol report, a 2010 Can Am four- wheeler driven northbound by 78-year old Gary Jordan of Viburnum overturned in the roadway. A passenger on the Can Am, 49-year old Victoria Shover of Viburnum, suffered serious injuries flown by Air-Evac to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. Neither Jordan nor Shover was wearing any safety equipment when the accident happened. The Can Am sustained extensive damage and was removed by Abney’s Wrecker from the scene.

An accident occurred on Saturday morning at 2:15 in Crawford County on Evans Road about seven miles southwest of Steelville. According to the highway patrol report, a 2005 Ford F-250 driven by 20-year old Bree-Anna Bergner of Viburnum was traveling too fast northbound when she failed to negotiate a curve. The Ford skid and Bergner overcorrected and traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck a tree. Bergner suffered moderate injuries and was transported to Phelps Heath Rolla by the Steelville Ambulance. An occupant in the Ford, 25-year old Henry Conaway of Viburnum, suffered minor injuries and was transported to Phelps Health Rolla by Steelville Ambulance. Both Bergner and Conaway were not wearing seat restraints at the time of the accident. The Ford sustained moderate damage and was towed by Miles Towing.

An accident happened Friday afternoon at 12:12 in Dent County on Highway 19 about two miles north of Salem. According to the highway patrol report, a 2008 Toyota Highlander, driven by 19- year-old Sylvan Rosenthal of Garland, Texas, was backing from a private drive when she traveled into the path of a 2006 Peterbilt, driven by 58-year-old Lewis Gibbs of Salem. A passenger in the Toyota, 20-year-old Lucila Spannaus of North Salt Lake City, Utah, suffered minor injuries and chose to seek her own treatment. The report stated that Rosenthal, Spannaus, and Gibbs were all wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident. The Toyota was totaled and towed from the scene by American Muffler and Towing. The Peterbilt sustained moderate damage and was removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing. The highway patrol was assisted by the Salem Police Department, the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and the Dent County Fire Protection District.

Though not as dramatic as the name would imply, pavement “blow-ups” are the summer’s version of potholes, created by a combination of moisture, weakening pavement and temperatures consistently reaching 90 degrees or more across the state. The Missouri Department of Transportation urges motorists to stay aware of road surfaces during these hot summer days. Pavement blow-ups are fractures that occur when a roadway surface expands at a crack or joint where moisture has seeped in. That crack weakens the pavement and the heat causes the pavement to buckle and warp, creating holes in the surface. Despite the term, the pavement does not actually explode. According to MoDOT State Maintenance Director Natalie Roark because it is difficult to know where or when a pavement blow-up will happen, our maintenance staff continually monitors road conditions on state routes. When you encounter a blow-up in the road, slow down and report the location to MoDOT as soon as possible so our maintenance crews can make repairs. Remember, never make a cell phone call from behind the wheel. Buckle Up Phone Down. Be alert to MoDOT crews making emergency roadway repairs. Slow down and move over for maintenance workers and other emergency personnel. It’s the law. Motorists can call MoDOT’s toll-free customer service center to report pavement blow-ups at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636). Plan your summer trip at MO on the GO, MoDOT’s suite of mobile information tools that shares the latest news on work zones, road conditions and traffic incidents. You can access it online at modot.org/mo-go.

Currently on the Salem R-80 Website, parents can register their child for kindergarten for the William Lynch Elementary School. If you have a child who will be turning 5 before August 1st, you can register them now online. Once you have filled out the form, you will be contacted at a later date at the phone number you put on the form. The website is https://www.salemr80.org.

Have you filed your federal and state tax returns yet? The 2019 federal income tax filing and payment deadlines for all taxpayers who file and pay taxes was extended until July 15th, 2020. This relief applied to all individual returns, trusts, and corporations. This relief is automatic, taxpayers do not need to file any additional forms or call the IRS to qualify. This relief also included estimated tax payments for tax year 2020 that awere due on April 15th, 2020. Penalties and interest will begin to accrue on any remaining unpaid balances as of July 16th, 2020. You will automatically avoid interest and penalties on the taxes paid by July 15. The State of Missouri also extended their tax deadline to July 15th for filing your income taxes and payment. This filing and payment relief applies to all individual income tax returns, income tax returns filed by C Corporations, and income tax returns filed by trusts or estates. The filing deadline for partnership returns that were originally due on April 15th, 2020 was also extended to July 15th, 2020. Individual taxpayers who need additional time to file their federal tax return beyond the July 15th deadline can request a filing extension by filing Form 4868 through their tax professional, tax software or using the Free File link on IRS.gov. Businesses who need additional time must file Form 7004. If you do owe Missouri tax, you can request a Missouri tax extension with Form MO-60. Make sure to file Form MO-60 by July 15th. If you have an approved Federal tax extension (IRS Form 4868), the State of Missouri will automatically grant you an extension as well.

Plans have been finalized for the 4-H and FFA Expo July 15th through 18th at The Commons. Due to the COVID-19 virus a number of events and activities have been cancelled or highly modified. Scheduled activities will begin Wednesday evening with the Dessert Auction at 6:00. Desserts need to be entered by 5:00 Wednesday afternoon. On Thursday all livestock must be in place on the grounds no later than 11:00 and weigh-ins will begin around noon. Competition kicks off Friday morning early with the Hog Show starting at 7:00, and it will be followed by the Sheep and Goat Show. The Small Animal Show will be conducted at 1:00 in afternoon followed by the Beef and Dairy Show at 2:00. The 4-H/FFA Market Sale will be Saturday morning starting at 9:00. For additional information contact the Dent County Extension Center at 573-729-3196. The Junior Livestock Committee encourages everyone to observe social distancing, stay home if you are sick, cover any coughs and sneezes, and clean and disinfect hands frequently. Hand sanitizing stations will be located around the barns. Wearing a mask is optional, but should be seriously considered since those attending are going to be in the vicinity of a lot of people.

Going on now, deer hunters can apply online through the Missouri Department of Conservation’s website for a shot at more than 100 managed deer hunts throughout the state for archery, muzzleloading, and modern firearms from mid-September through mid-January at conservation areas, state and other parks, national wildlife refuges, and other public areas. Some managed hunts are held specifically for youth or for people with disabilities. The managed deer hunt application period will be open through the 31st. Before you apply, here are a couple of reminders about the managed hunts. First, you may apply for only one managed deer hunt each year. If you apply for more than one, you will be disqualified from this year’s drawing and will not receive a preference point. Second, youth who apply for a youth-only hunt may not also apply for a regular managed deer hunt. Third, if you cannot attend, another hunter cannot take your place. Only those hunters who applied and were drawn may attend. Also, some managed hunts require hunters to attend a mandatory pre-hunt orientation. If you cannot attend the orientation, do not apply for these hunts. Whether you apply as one in a party or as an individual, your chances of being drawn for a managed deer hunt are the same as everyone else’s. However, if you are not drawn for a managed hunt this year, you will earn one preference point that will increase your odds the next time you apply which MDC calls a weighted random drawing. Draw results will be available August 15th through January, 15th, 2021. Applicants who are drawn will receive area maps and other hunt information by mail. For more information on managed deer hunts or to preview hunt details, go to mdc.mo.gov/managedhunt. Details about managed hunts can also be found in MDC’s “2020 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information” booklet available starting in early July at MDC offices and nature centers, from permit vendors around the state, and online at mdc.mo.gov.

An employee with the company that cleans Missouri’s “Welcome Centers” has tested positive for COVID-19. Facilities recently cleaned by the individual at Conway, Missouri have been closed on both sides of Interstate 44. DBi, the company contracted to clean Missouri rest areas and welcome centers, notified the Missouri Department of Transportation early Thursday morning of the positive test. Both eastbound and westbound facilities were immediately closed to the public. The welcome centers will be cleaned following CDC guidance and utilizing EPA-registered disinfectants. The westbound side is being cleaned and disinfected first and will reopen on Saturday, July 11th. The eastbound facility will then be cleaned and disinfected and will reopen Sunday, July 12th. Parking will still be available at both welcome centers. DBi is installing portable toilets at the locations. The cleaning and disinfecting of the Welcome Centers will be done at no charge by DBi.

The Dent County Fire Protection District board of directors met Tuesday evening at 6:00 at the fire station located at #2 South Main Street. The meeting opened with Liz Gruendel, representing the American Volunteers, presenting the Dent County Fire District with the Armor of God coin #72. This coin represents the work and community service the district performed during the Covid-19 pandemic. The coin is 1 of only 6 given out in Dent county and only 100 for the state. After approval of the consent agenda, the minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed and approved as presented. During the financial report, bills were reviewed and approved. The budget showed an ending balance as of June 30th of $228,763.66. After the board reviewed the calendar, the monthly reimbursement report showed a total of 24 calls for the month of June including three structure fires, two brush fires and a car fire. The department also responded to nine vehicle accidents, had two mutual aid calls, two training calls and a call listed as other. This brings the calls year to date to 129 with the average cost per call being $127.28. In old business, Chief Brad Nash updated the board on the building process and stated that currently there are several small items that need to be addressed but they are at a standstill due to the current situation and there is no time frame scheduled at this time. Final payment is on hold until completion. In new business, Chief Nash reported that the NFPA has begun placing expiration dates on all fire fighter equipment. This decision has made some equipment outdated or it will soon be. Chief Nash asked the board to approve $6,298.03 for new helmets for the district. This would start the update of equipment and later other gear would be replaced on a rotational basis so as to not have it all come due to be replaced at the same time. A motion was made and approved to replace the helmets. The date for the next meeting was set for August 4th at the 6:00 at the fire station before the meeting adjourned.

The Salem Police Department has released a number of reports for the last week of June. On Wednesday, June 24th near 5:00 in the afternoon, officers responded to the 200 block of West Second Street for a well being check. Once at the residence, officers made contact with a 22-year-old Salem female who had an active arrest warrant out of Maries County. The female was arrested and released on her own recognizance. On Thursday, June 25th near 8:00 in the evening, officers responded to the 100 block of South Carty Street in an attempt to locate a male subject with a felony warrant out of Phelps County. Contact was made with the 32-year-old Salem male where he was arrested and transported to the Dent County Jail to await extradition or to post bond. On Friday, June 26th just after 2:00 in the afternoon, officers were dispatched to the 800 block of South Hickory Street for a report of a fight in progress. As a result of the investigation, it was reported that there was an altercation and one of the parties was very intoxicated. A 40-year-old Salem male was arrested for disorderly conduct as a result of the incident. He was transported to the Dent County Jail and placed on a 12-hour safe keep due to his intoxication. On Sunday night, June 28th at about 10:30, officers were patrolling the industrial park when they drove up on a vehicle parked with its lights off. Contact was made with the occupants of the vehicle and when they rolled the windows down smoke emitted from the vehicle and the officer observed the odor of marijuana. A search of the vehicle was conducted and located in the care was a jar containing marijuana. A 19-year-old Salem male admitted to possessing the marijuana and was placed under arrest and later released on summons. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

Missouri State Parks has instituted a number of changes related to campground operations to better facilitate appropriate social distancing and improve the safety of operations for Missouri State Parks’ guests and staff. The additional measures include requiring reservations prior to arrival, limiting campground occupancy at some parks and sites, increasing the frequency of cleaning shower houses and restrooms, offering campers a new contactless, self-check-in feature, restricting occupancy in shower houses and restrooms, and only accepting credit and debit cards. One of the changes visitors will experience is a new contactless, self-check-in feature. On the morning of their planned arrival to a state park or historic site, campers will receive an email with instructions on how to access their reservation online and check in. Alternatively upon arrival, campers can check in by opening the camera on their smartphone device and hovering over the QR code posted at the campsite, and following the prompt. Come prepared to enjoy the outdoors responsibly. Visitors are strongly encouraged to follow social distancing guidelines, bring hand sanitizer and bottled water, and please stay home if you are sick. Missouri State Parks recommends reviewing signage posted throughout the parks and state historic sites, and diligently following guidelines for the health and safety of others. Visit mostateparks.com to find a park close to home and to check for individual park advisories before heading to the park. If you have questions regarding Missouri State Parks, please contact us at moparks@dnr.mo.gov. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans’ Hospital and the Columbia Vet Center are teaming up to provide mobile COVID-19 screening and testing services for Veterans next week in Rolla. Health administrators will be on-site to facilitate rapid enrollment for those who qualify. Mobile testing in our area will be at the Rolla Lions Club from 10:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon on Tuesday, July 14th, at 1601 S. Bishop Avenue, Rolla. The purpose of providing on-site, mobile services is to ensure that area Veterans have access to COVID-19 screening and testing.

The Salem Board of Aldermen held a regular meeting Monday at the City Hall Council chambers. The board approved the budgeted purchase of two new Dodge Durangos for the Police Department at a total of $64,738 from Behlman Dodge in Troy on the state bid. City Administrator Ray Walden said all the city utility bills for May have been mailed and please contact the utility department if you have not received your bill or have questions. Their number is 729-4117. The Aldermen stressed their frustration with the billing process and especially with the lack of enough staff to help answer the phone calls and respond to customers in a timely manner. They asked that other city department staff be brought in to help. Walden said he will put every person who is available to help address the problem. The board approved Bill No. 3453 amending the 2020 Fiscal Year budget. The increase in the budget of the Special Street Fund is due to the increase in cost to repair roads to $409,986 from $294,500 in the Fiscal year 2019-2020. This bill also increased the revenue in the fund from the previous year’s reserve to balance the budget. The board postponed discussion on the Hangar Rental Fees until the next meeting when they have more information. The meeting was then adjourned.

The Salem Police Department has released their report for the month of May. They issued 17 equipment repair orders, 13 summonses to appear in court, 32 warning tickets, and 26 traffic tickets, plus they also served 2 fugitive warrants. The Salem Police investigated 9 traffic accidents, wrote 2 property damage reports, 10 stealing reports, and had 1 death investigation. The department investigated 5 driving while having a driver’s license being revoked or suspended, 3 possessions of a controlled substance reports along with 5 drug paraphernalia reports, 11 domestic violence reports, and investigated 4 lost or stolen license plates along with 2 intoxicated pedestrians. The department was also dispatched for 42 animal calls, 26 ambulance assist calls, and performed 90 traffic stops for the month. The Department also conducted 67 follow-up investigations, and conducted 17 well being checks. The Salem Police Department received 657 calls for service during the month of May and had 64 walk-ins to the station. The department drove 9,010 miles during the month of May. There were 11 males and 8 females arrested during the month. The Police Department also served 4 hours during the month as court bailiff in May.

The Dent County Sheriff’s department has released some reports. On Saturday, June 20th, a deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop with an ATV on Dent County Road 3260. The ATV failed to yield and the deputy began to pursue the vehicle. As the vehicle approached Dent County Road 3250, the ATV slowed down and stopped on the side of the road. During the course of the incident, a 40-year-old Salem man was arrested for resisting or interfering with an arrest for a felony, possession of a controlled substance except 35 grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid; and for exceeding the posted speed limit which he exceeded by 26 miles per hour or more. The man was also charged prior drug offenses for the possession of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid of 10 grams or less and the unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office Jail where he was incarcerated. on Friday, June 26th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop at West Franklin Street and South Missouri. During the course of the traffic stop, an 18-year-old Salem man was arrested for driving while being intoxicated – zero tolerance. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released to a family member. If anyone has any information about any investigation, please call the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

State Auditor Nicole Galloway released her office’s regularly-scheduled audit of Phelps County, which gave the county a rating of “fair.” The concerns discussed in the report included the inadequate oversight of the county collector’s financial activities, poor bank reconciliation practices of the prosecuting attorney’s office, unsupported transfers to the general revenue fund, and bonuses paid to Phelps County Board for the Developmentally Disabled employees. The audit found the county commission and the county clerk did not adequately verify the accuracy and completeness of the collector’s annual settlements. The lack of adequate verification can mean an increased risk of loss, theft, or misuse of property tax monies going undetected, and less assurance the annual settlements are complete and accurate. The audit also reported the prosecuting attorney’s office does not prepare adequate and timely bank reconciliations and does not maintain an adequate list of liabilities. In addition, the county commission did not maintain documentation to support the annual transfer from the county’s unemployment fund to the general revenue fund and had not established a comprehensive personnel policy. The county clerk and the county commission also did not ensure county commission meeting minutes were prepared and approved timely. The audit also found the Phelps County Board for the Developmentally Disabled improperly paid bonuses to employees in 2018 and 2020. Bonuses are not allowed by the Missouri Constitution. For the entire report, check out the state auditor’s website at https://app.auditor.mo.gov/

The Dent County Health Center has confirmed a fourth confirmed case of COVID-19 in Dent County Thursday afternoon. This brings the total number of confirmed positive cases in Dent County to four with the other three cases now released from isolation. This individual is directly linked to the Great Circle St. James campus outbreak. The CDC Isolation guidelines have been implemented and close contacts have been identified. No other information will be provided about the patient. There were no locations of potential exposure in Dent County that have been identified at this time. If any locations are identified, that information will be released through the media. It is important to remember that every activity that involves contact with others has some degree of risk. To reduce risk and prevent the spread of COVID-19, people are encourage to follow preventative measures such as washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands; stay home if you are sick, cover any coughs and sneezes, and you should clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces frequently. Wearing a mask is optional, but should be seriously if you are going to be in the vicinity of a lot of people. If you suspect that you have COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, and are experiencing symptoms, call your healthcare provider to let them know before seeking care. It is critical that your provider is aware that you may have COVID-19 prior to your arrival at a healthcare facility, and that you follow all instructions for arriving at the healthcare facility.

An accident happened Friday night in Texas County at 7:32 on Route CC about six and a half miles north of Licking that left four residents of Licking with injuries. According to the highway patrol report, a 2014 Hyundai driven north bound by 30-year Patricia Cook of Licking, failed to yield and pulled into the path of a 2016 Jeep Compass driven eastbound by 18-year old Ebonnie Baker of Licking A 10-year old female juvenile passenger in the Hyundai suffered serious injuries and was transported by ambulance to Cox South in Springfield. Partricia Cook, the driver of the Hyundai, suffered moderate injuries and was taken by ambulance to Cox South in Springfield. A male passenger in the Hyundai, 38-year old Gale Tilden suffered minor injuries and was taken by a private vehicle to the Texas County Memorial District Hospital. The driver of the Compass, Ebonnie Baker, suffered minor injuries and refused treatment at the scene. Everyone but Gale Tilden was wearing a seat restraint when the accident happened. Both vehicles were totaled and removed from the scene by Jay’s Automotive of Houston.

A one vehicle accident happened Saturday afternoon at 1:00 in Maries County on Route E approximately eight miles north of Rolla. According to the report from the highway patrol, a 2000 Chevrolet Malibu being driven by 17- year old Caleb Partridge of Rolla was traveling northbound and began skidding, then crossed the centerline. The Chevrolet went off the left side of the highway, struck a ditch, and overturned. Partridge, who was not wearing a safety restraint, was taken by a private vehicle to Phelps Health in Rolla for treatment of moderate injuries. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene by C & C Towing.

An accident occurred Sunday morning in Phelps County just after midnight at 12:02 at the intersection of Phelps County Road 7140 and Phelps County Road 7130. According to the highway patrol report, a southbound 2002 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by 17-year old Lane House of Edgar Springs, drove through the intersection and struck a tree. House, and a passenger 19-year old Noah Whittaker of Rolla, both suffered minor injuries and the report stated that it was unknown whether either one was wearing a safety restraint. House was transported via personal conveyance to Phelps Health, while Whittaker was transported by EMS to Phelps Health. The Chevrolet sustained moderate damage and was towed from the scene by Ron Dishman’s Towing.

An accident involving a Rolla resident happened Friday afternoon at 3:45 in Ralls County on Highway 61 about a half mile north of Hannibal. The report from the highway patrol states that 20-year old Levi Burns of Rolla was traveling north in a 2000 Dodge Durango. In order to avoid a collision, the Dodge ran off the left side of the roadway and overturned. Burns, who was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident, suffered minor injuries and was transported to Hannibal Regional Hospital. The highway patrol was assisted by the Ralls county sheriffs department, Hannibal Rural Fire Department, and Marion County Ambulance.

The Salem Board of Aldermen will hold their regular meting this evening at 7:00 at the City Hall Council Chambers. At the meeting, the board will hear bids on two new Dodge Durangos for the Salem Police Department. The board will discuss the state bid from Behlmann Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram from Troy Missouri. Following the Consent Agenda, the board will hear from City Administrator Ray Walden who will update the board on a number of city projects. The board will consider Bill #3453 that would create an ordinance to amend the Fiscal Year 2020 budget due to the increase in cost for Street Maintenance that was requested by the aldermen and also the revenues that would offset that expense. N.B. West Contracting of Sullivan presented the city with a bill for over $300,000 for the street work. The board will also discuss using the Domeyer Hanger at the Salem Municipal Airport and figuring a rate to charge should they rent the hanger. The board will then adjourn. The meeting of the City of Salem Board of Alderman tonight is open to the public and will follow social distancing guidelines. The meeting can also be streamed on ksmoradio.com live or played back at a later time.

The Dent County Commissioners have now opened its CARES Act funding to businesses within the county. Dent County received $1,827,024 in federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic (CARES) Act for reimbursable COVID-19 expenses that they have incurred, beginning March 1, 2020. The county can reimburse costs up to December 30th of this year. Any funds not spent must be returned to the U.S. Treasury. In early June, the county kicked off its public entities grant reimbursement program for COVID-19 related expenses. Dent County is now offering a business grant program. Per the CARES Act, the county may reimburse those expenses that the business incurred and had to pay even though they were partially or totally closed such as utility bills, rents or mortgage payments, insurance bills and other costs that were not covered through other Federal CARES Act programs. The county has set aside $800,000 for business grants. A separate application has been created for business requests, and businesses must provide documentation to support their requests. Documentation the businesses will have to provide is a copy of valid business license (city and county), past tax records for 2019, profit/loss statement for 2020 prepared by accountant or tax professional, a completed W-9 and other documentation depending on the request. Businesses seeking funding must have been in business prior to February 29th and have no more than 30 (full-time equivalent) employees. Businesses can submit multiple applications as long as the total of the requested amounts does not exceed $20,000 to any one business. Non-profits are eligible for funding as well. At this time, the county is not reimbursing lost revenue as the US Treasury guidance is not specific on the eligibility of those costs. Applications for reimbursement are due to MRPC no later than December 10th, 2020. The Meramec Regional Planning Commission has been assisting Dent County as well as seven other counties in the Meramec Region review the act, develop an application and administrative process that would meet audit requirements. MRPC staff will be handling the grant administration for Dent County. Each applicant must complete a certification form, where they agree to comply with funding requirements, including repaying the reimbursement grant if the expenditure is deemed ineligible in the future. The application asks for contact information and a detailed description of the costs incurred and how they are COVID-19 related. The form also provides a list of eligible expenditures, and applicants are encouraged to review that list before applying. Dent County reimbursement requests will be directed to Kelly Sink at the MRPC, where the staff will review the application, make sure the request is eligible for funding, and verify that the documentation meets the requirements for a Single Audit. A verified application will then be forwarded to the Dent County Commission for their review and approval. Those applications that are approved will be forwarded to the county treasurer for payment to the applicant. MRPC staff will maintain files for the county and track all requests and expenditures. The MRPC has created a webpage on its website where Dent County application information for both businesses and public entities can be found: https://www.meramecregion.org/cares-act-funding-opportunity-for-meramec-counties/. If you have questions about the Dent County grant, you should contact Kelly Sink at the MRPC at 573-265-2993 or email her at Kellysb@meramecregion.org.

The city of Salem will be doing curbside yard waste pick-up the first full week of each month. Items that will be picked up by the city include limbs and branches that are cut to a length of 4 feet or less and leaves that are bagged in recyclable leaf bags which can be purchased at the city utility office $2.50 for ten bags. The city will pick up yard waste that has been properly bagged, cut, and placed at the edge of the curb or sidewalk. They ask that you do not block the sidewalk or place items in the street. The city of Salem reserves the right to charge for exceptionally large volumes of yard waste or to recommend removal by a private company. Items that will not be picked up include appliances, household trash, tires, electronics, lumber or building materials, furniture, or recyclables. Items must be ready and set out for pickup on the first Monday of the first full weeks of each month.

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce reminds everyone the Independence Day Parade will be held on Saturday, July 4th at 6:00 PM. The theme will be “An American Holiday” with George Flint as the grand marshal. The parade will follow the normal parade route from the SBU campus to MacArthur, then north to 4th Street before turning east, but this year the parade will be extended past the Courthouse to Pershing Street at the top of East 4th Street hill. Then after 9:00 Saturday, the city of Salem fireworks display will be held at The Commons on Highway 72 north. There is no cost to attend the parade or fireworks. During the parade and at the Commons, please use social distancing. For more information about the parade, call the Salem, Area Chamber of Commerce office at 729-6900 or stop by the new office at 1139 South Main St.

Currently on the Salem R-80 Website, parents can register their child for kindergarten for the William Lynch Elementary School. If you have a child who will be turning 5 before August 1st, you can register them now online. Once you have filled out the form, you will be contacted at a later date at the phone number you put on the form. The website is https://www.salemr80.org.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released some reports. On June 16th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop in the 1200 block of South Main Street. During the course of the traffic stop, a 41-year-old Salem man was arrested for driving while having his license revoked or suspended. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. Then on June 19th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop in the 900 block of South Main Street. During the course of the traffic stop, a 30-year-old Lebanon woman was arrested for operating a vehicle on a highway without a valid license, her 2nd offense. The woman was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where she was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. If anyone has any information about an ongoing investigation, please call the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, encourages Missouri’s travelers to make smart choices for a safe Independence Day holiday. The state’s wide variety of recreational opportunities is a great way to celebrate our nation’s freedoms. But, no matter what you plan for the long weekend, you can’t go wrong if you choose to follow all Missouri traffic and boating laws. It is also important to observe social distancing and other CDC guidelines related to the coronavirus, and stay home if you are ill. During the 2019 counting period, 15 people were killed and 457 injured in Missouri over the holiday in 1,109 traffic crashes. Over the 2019 July Fourth holiday, troopers arrested 162 people for driving while being intoxicated. Of the injuries suffered last year during the Independence Day holiday, 58 people were seriously injured in traffic crashes in Missouri. Of the 73 people killed or injured, 18 were involved in a crash where there was at least one substance-impaired driver. The 15 fatalities included three motorcyclists, one ATV occupant and 11 vehicle occupants, with 80% of the 11 vehicle occupants being unbuckled. The 58 serious injuries included two pedestrians, 11 motorcyclists and 45 vehicle occupants with 65% of those being unbelted. In 2019, there were nine boating crashes, which included four injuries and zero fatalities. Three people drowned during last year’s July Fourth holiday. Troopers made 13 boating while being intoxicated arrests in 2019. The 2020 counting period for the Independence Day holiday will be from 6:00 tonight until 11:59 Sunday night, July 6th. The Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort) and Operation Dry Water over the July Fourth holiday weekend. Operation Dry Water specifically targets impaired vessel operators. All available troopers will be patrolling Missouri roadways and waterways to enforce traffic and boating laws, and offering assistance as needed. Missouri’s boaters are asked to do their part by remaining alert for other boats and swimmers, and being courteous on the water. With more boats on the water, it is even more important to pay attention when operating your vessel. Never operate a vessel if you’ve consumed alcohol. Boaters need to be aware that it is illegal to discharge fireworks from a vessel. Leave all fireworks in a safe place on shore. Anyone needing assistance or who witnesses criminal activity while traveling on Missouri’s roadways or waterways can contact the nearest Highway Patrol troop headquarters by calling the Patrol Emergency Report Line at 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. Motorists may call 1-888-275-6636 to check for road construction along their travel route.

The Impact 100 Dent County, a committee of the Dent County Community Foundation, has two grant opportunities for the 2020 grant making cycle for not-for-profit organizations. The first grant represents a broad base of categories including parks and recreation, arts, education and community development. This grant will be awarded to the not-for-profit organization chosen by the Impact 100 committee on July 16. A short presentation will be required of the not-for-profit representative at the ceremony. The second grant to be awarded is a restricted grant with only applications related to health initiatives allowed for this grant. These two grants are $3,000 and $4,000.00 respectively. A not-for-profit organization can only apply for one of the grants. These applications are due July 10. If you have any questions, please call Mary Beth Cook, the Dent County Community Foundation coordinator at 573-453-6091. The Impact 100 Dent County is a giving circle, money from this effort is returned to our community to enhance the lives of citizens.

The City of Salem Annual Budget for their next fiscal year approved at the special board of Aldermen meeting Tuesday night that began July 1st, shows expected revenues of $12,860,186 with expected expenses of $12,791,822. Capital projects expected to be done in the next fiscal year came to $3,039,984. To keep the budget conservative due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the budgeted sales tax figures for general revenue, the capital improvement fund and the park and recreation department were approximately 90% of what was received in 2019-2020 fiscal year. There are two payments scheduled in the next fiscal year totaling about $500,000 for the Certificates of Participation funding for the sewer plant upgrade and other utility projects. Those payments are allocated proportionately from the electric, water and sewer funds. Also, a 2% cost of living adjustment was made for staff along with a 2% merit increase pool, plus personnel levels are expected to remain the same as the 2019-2020 fiscal year. The Board of Aldermen also approved to continue to fund the service agreements with the University of Missouri Extension, the Dent County Museum, Healthy Dent County and the Salem Area Community Betterment Association. City Administrator Ray Walden wanted to thank the citizen committees, mayor, aldermen and staff for their hard work, efforts and thoroughness during the budget process for their efforts with a special thanks going to City Clerk Mary Happel.

The Ozark National Scenic Riverways, in partnership with the Ozark Riverways Foundation and Current River State Park, will be offering free paddling clinics each Sunday starting July 5th and lasting through August 9th at the Current River State Park. These free clinics are open to ten participants per program and pre-registration is required. Participants will need to provide their own personal flotation device & lunch. Paddlers will meet at Current River State Park at 10:00 in the morning for one hour of dry land basic skills, followed by instruction and paddling practice on the lower lake. Students will have the option to continue instruction on the river in the afternoon, paddling approximately four miles from Current River State Park to Round Spring. Instructors for this clinic are certified by the American Canoe Association. Topics to be covered include canoe and kayak equipment, rescue techniques, basic paddle strokes and maneuvers, and river safety. Kayaks and paddles will be supplied by Current River State Park. All participants are encouraged to practice safe social distancing and to wear appropriate face coverings if desired. Kayaks and paddles will be sanitized before and after the clinic in an effort to promote good hygiene. This is an open-air event. For more information or to register for one of the sessions call the Round Spring Visitor Center at 573-323-8093.

The Salem Board of Aldermen held a special meeting Tuesday evening at the Salem City Hall Council Cambers. At the meeting, the board approved remodeling the city administrative office to turn the utility office counter around as well as install glass and a door. The bid of 16,041 from Total Security System out of Fowlerville, Michigan was approved to provide the Level 3 door and Bullet Resistant Glazing was approved, as was the bid from Prock Operations doing business as For Your Convenience out of Rolla for the laminated millwork, Level 2 Armorcore, countertops, fabrication, installation and delivery for $29,978. The board then approved Bill #3452 that adopted an annual budget for the City of Salem for the Fiscal Year beginning July 1st, 2020 and ending June 30th, 2021. The budget, submitted by City Administrator Ray Walden, showed anticipated revenues of $12,860,186 and anticipated expenditures of $12,791,822 with intergovernmental transfers of $2,197,462. The proposed budget was approved without changes by the board unanimously. City Clerk Mary Happel reported that two of the three trailer courts have submitted their applications for license renewal. Those two were the Finest Place on Truman and the trailer court owned by central Missouri Investments on Pershing. Building Inspector Jared Brown reported to Happel that each of the trailer courts needed to have some minor repairs done, but he felt confident the work would be done quickly. Another trailer park on Park Street did not submit their application for renewal. The Salem Public Library Board was short a person after Sarah Swindell resigned and Mayor Brad Nash appointed Liz Condray to replace Swindell. The board approved the appointment. The board discussed the setting of the airport hanger rates for the next year. The first discussion centered on the fact that all of the board members of the Airport Board are renters of the hangers and the board felt that was a conflict of interest in the setting of the reasonable rates as at market value. It was asked when the terms of some of the members of the boards were up and Mayor Nash said some were up. The chair of the Airport Board, Rachel Hinderliter, made a motion requesting the current rates be used from July 1st, 2020 until December 31st, 2020. She said she plans on holding some meetings to discuss the hanger rates once Mayor Nash finds residents to serve on the board. The board approved setting the rates for those six months. The meeting was then adjourned.

A one vehicle accident happened Monday night shortly before 11:30 in Phelps County on Route F about four miles east of Highway 72. According to the report from the highway patrol, a 2000 Ford Ranger being driven westbound by 17-year old Kolby Flathers of St. James, struck a donkey in the roadway. Flathers and a passenger, 19-year old Pacey Hopwood of St. James, were both transported by ambulance to Phelps Health in Rolla for the treatment of minor injuries. Both occupants were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident. The Ford sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by Ron Dishman’s Towing.

The Salem Police Department reports that between the dates June 12th and June 19th and there were a total of 142 calls for service. Officers with the Salem Police Department conducted 32 traffic stops for various traffic violations with three of the stops resulted in summonses being issued. On Friday, June 12th just after 4:30 in the afternoon, an officer was dispatched to the 1400 block of South Gertrude for a report of a trespasser. After an investigation, the trespasser was found to have an active warrant for his arrest out of the Dent County Sheriff’s Office. As a result, the 31-year-old Salem man was arrested and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. Later that same night at approximately 11:40, an officer was dispatched to the 600 block of East Gibbs for a report of an assault. It was reported that two intoxicated males had shown up at the residence arguing about issues between the parties. During an argument one of the males struck the resident in the eye. The resident wished to pursue charges on the incident and reported that the male had fled the residence prior to law enforcement arrival. This incident is still under investigation. On Wednesday, June 17th at approximately 4:52 in the afternoon, an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department for a report of a stolen bicycle. It was reported that a black 24 inch ladies “Retro” bicycle was taken off the deck of a residence on Key Lane. The bicycle was valued at $100. This incident is under investigation. And finally, shortly before 8:00 on the evening on Friday the 19th, an officer was dispatched to the 1100 block of West Franklin Street for a report of a civil dispute. It was reported that during the dispute a 37-year-old Salem female had struck the victim in the face. The victim wished to pursue charges for domestic assault. Further investigation led to the 37-year old woman being arrested and later released on a summons to appear in court. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding an ongoing investigation.

A two vehicle accident happened Saturday evening at 6:20 on Interstate 44 near the 193.2 eastbound mile marker. According to the report from the highway patrol, a 1997 Ford Ranger being driven by 30-year old Codie Kruger of Rolla, hydroplaned stopping across the highway and was then struck by a 2021 International school bus being driven by 24-year old Floyd Celestine of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Kruger suffered serious injuries and was transported by St. James ambulance to Phelps Health Hospital in Rolla. Both drivers were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident. The Ranger was totaled and removed from the scene by Spurgeon’s Towing. The bus sustained moderate damage and was towed by I-44 Towing.

The Dent County Fire Protection District board of directors will be meeting Tuesday, July 7th, at 6:00 PM at the fire station located at #2 South Main Street. After the roll call and call to order, the board will review minutes from the May meeting then hear the financial report and approve bills. The board will then review the calendar and hear the monthly reimbursement report before addressing old and new business. The board will then hear various reports before setting the date for the next meeting. The meeting is open to the public.