Local News

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning for their regular meeting at the courthouse. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams presented the sales tax figures for the money received by the county from the state. She stated the General Revenue Fund Sales Tax and the Law Enforcement Sales Tax each came in at about $71,057.07 and year-to-date Dent County has seen an increase of $92,631.29 in the fund which comes to a 10.47% increase. Williams presented the Road and Bridge Fund Sales Tax figures that showed that funds received $33,125.63 and year to date, the Road and Bridge Fund is $32,365.48 ahead of the previous year with a 7.85% increase. Williams wanted to remind the commission that last year, the county received two payments in December for sales tax and Road and Bridge. This is not expected this year. Williams said each jail fund received $66,135.44 this month, and year to date each fund has a fund balance of over $886,600. Dent County Collector Dennis Medlock also brought in his November monthly report that was being reviewed by the commission. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell said a crew will be tail ditching roads in the Bunker area and also on Dent County Road 5550. Tree limbs will also be trimmed on county road 5550. Purcell stated brush would be cut on county road 5380, but the roads are too frozen to grade. He said with the cold weather, workers are doing service on county truck #66 and on loader #924. General shop maintenance is also being done. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson said a crew is replacing signs on Dent County Roads 4010 and 4020. He went on to report service was being done on truck #70 and he will have some workers helping District 1 with the loader service. He did state that pipes were being cleaned out on county roads 4280 and 4290 and while the men were out, they would pick up old pipes that had been replaced on county roads 3260 and 4050. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said the 2019 budget work continues. Commissioner Purcell reported he attended the Missouri Department of Conservation workshop on the possibility of elk hunting in the 2020 season in Eminence on Thursday. There was discussion on the permit applications which would only be open to Missouri residents, landowner opportunities, possible season dates as well as hunting methods. No final decisions were made on anything. The board heard from Mike Elliott on the county’s MOPERM Insurance. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday at 9:00 and the meeting is open the public.

The Missouri Public Service Commission has established the deadline for those wishing to intervene and participate in a natural gas rate case filed by Union Electric Company d/b/a Ameren Missouri. Individual citizens wishing to comment should contact either the Office of the Public Counsel (Governor Office Building, 200 Madison Street, Suite 650, P.O. Box 2230, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-2230, or call (866) 922-2959 or the Public Service Commission Staff, P.O. Box 360, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-0360, or call telephone 1-800-392-4211. The Office of the Public Counsel is a separate state agency that represents the general public in matters before the Commission. On December 3rd, Ameren Missouri filed a natural gas rate case with the Missouri Public Service Commission seeking to increase annual natural gas revenues by approximately $4.26 million. According to Ameren Missouri’s filing, the average annual change in natural gas rates for residential customers will be approximately $26 a year. As part of its filing, Ameren Missouri seeks an interim rate reduction of approximately 1.43% to reflect the impact of the change in the federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21% under the federal Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Ameren Missouri is seeking to implement the interim rate reduction on January 2, 2019 and it would remain in effect until the Commission decides the natural gas rate case.

Dent County Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Curley released these reports from cases heard Friday before Judge Sid Pearson. Stephen Cochran plead guilty to two separate cases for possession of a controlled substance. He was sentenced to a total of 10 years in Department of Corrections with the court retaining jurisdiction under statute 559.115. This was the sentence recommended by Prosecutor Andrew Curley. Also at those proceedings, William Haines plead guilty to possession of heroin and had his probation revoked for felony possession of a controlled substance. Haines was sentenced to 7 years in the Department of Corrections as recommended by statute. Also at the court proceedings, Robbie Smith had his probation revoked and was sentenced to 7 years in the Department of Corrections.

A one vehicle accident occurred Wednesday afternoon at 5:45 in Dent County on Highway 19 about five miles South of Salem. According to the highway patrol report, a 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier being driven by 25-year old Cory Nichols of Salem, was southbound on Highway 19 when he lost control of the vehicle after rounding a curve, causing the vehicle to travel off the right side of the road then striking a fence and overturning. The Chevrolet was totaled in the accident and removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing. Nichols received minor injuries but refused treatment at the scene. Nichols was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident.

The Salem Police Department has released reports for Friday, November 30th through Tuesday December 3rd. According to the report, on Friday November 30th at approximately 7:09 in the morning, an officer was dispatched to Country Mart parking lot on Highway 32 East in reference to an accident. The investigation of the accident led to the arrest of a 30-year old female of Salem for driving while being drugged. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and was released. A little over an hour later at approximately 8:37, the School Resource Officer was dispatched to the Salem Upper Elementary in reference to an assault. The investigation of the report revealed a 10-year-old male juvenile had struck a teacher. Further investigation led to the detention of the juvenile who was later released to a parent. The report will be forwarded to the Juvenile Office. On Monday morning, the 3rd of December at about 3:47, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 500 block of East Ninth in reference to a possible prowler. That investigation led to the arrest of a 37-year old male of Dixon on a fugitive warrant from Phelps County and a 25- year old male of Ava on a fugitive warrant from Douglass County. The two suspects were incarcerated pending extradition. That same afternoon at approximately 2:06, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 100 block of Parkview in reference to a theft. The investigation of the report revealed a small rock had broken a window valued at $312.12 under unknown circumstances. The report is under investigation. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

Max Butler, a retired Federal Reserve employee of 40 years will be the guest speaker at the Dent County Historical Society Dinner Speaker
Series that will be held Tuesday, December 11th at the Pizza Inn meeting Room at starting at 6:00. The meeting room will be available for dinner at 5:00 and it is a “pay for your own” dinner. The Dent County Historical Society is sponsoring a tree at the Trees & Trains Exhibit at ONCRC in December. For more information call Deloris Gray Wood, Historical Society president, at 729-2545.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors next regular meeting will be held Tuesday afternoon, December 11th, at 12:00 noon in the hospital library. The meeting was moved up due to other events scheduled that evening that involved the board. The minutes of the November 13th regular meeting will be reviewed for approval. Administrator Kasey Lucas will give a summary of operations and statistics for the month of November, Debbie Hines will present the Chief Nursing Officer report, and Chris Strickland will give a report on the hospital foundation and auxiliary, along with a report on the hospital marketing and community perception. Patient satisfaction survey results will be reviewed and discussed for the 3rd quarter. In old business, the election filing begins December 11th and continues through January 15th, 2019 for an unexpired two (2) year term in District #2 and a six (6) year term for District #6. In new business, purchases will be reviewed. The board may then vote to go into closed session. The December regular meeting of the Salem Memorial District Hospital is open to the public.

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning in the Courthouse. In the road report, District One Commissioner Dennis Purcell said his crews were grading and adding materials to Dent County Roads 4124 and 5550, plus grading only would be done on county road 6110. He also noted that brush was being cut on county roads 5390 and 5400. Purcell also reported that his crew was preparing for the forecasted storm and all snow removal equipment was being checked over. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson reported that grading was being done and materials were being added to Dent County Road 4280 and that grading only would be done on county road 4290. He also reported that brush was being cut on county road 2500 and that truck #124 was being serviced. Larson noted that his crew was also preparing to push snow if needed and that low hanging tree limbs were being removed from Dent County Roads 2370 and 3020. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles wanted to thank all those ringing the bells for the Salvation Army and all the contributors. The Commissioners will be ringing bells today. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said that she balanced with the treasurer on all accounts for the month of November and that the Commissioners had reviewed her reports. She noted that the Commissioners were approving bills for payment and that her office continues to work on the 2019 budget. Phone bids were taken for 2,000 gallons of gasoline and MFA Oil was the low bidder at $1.7114 per gallon. Purcell and Larson noted that they had been informed that steel prices were going to increase 15% as of the first of the year. The Commissioners voted 3-0 to take bids for grader blades. The bids will be opened December 20th at 10:00. The Commissioners also voted 3-0 to renew the contract with Healthy Dent County for rural addressing services for 2019 with no changes from the 2018 contract. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams will send the last budgeted transfer from Senior Citizens Fund. She then discussed the previous open bank bids for county deposits. She recommended the commission reject both previous depository bids that were from January 1st through December 2019 from both banks. Williams and Skiles both talked to representatives with the bank of Salem and Progressive Ozark Bank. Both banks understood the circumstances of a short term bid and the challenges and concerns. In lieu of the bid rejection, Williams has requested an extension of the depository agreement with Progressive Ozark Bank from January 1st through June 30th, 2019. Williams recommends that the depository bids be taken in accordance with Missouri Revised Statute RSMO 110.130, that bids will be taken in the spring of 2019 for a four-year term that would begin on July 1st, 2019 and last through June 30th, 2023. Williams visited with all five banking institutions in Salem and they all indicated they would like to bid in 2019. The Commission approved Williams’ recommendation of the bid rejection and the extension of the current depository agreement with Progressive Ozark Bank until June 30th as well as soliciting of bids in the spring of 2019. The next meeting of the Commissioners will be Monday morning in the Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Missouri Department of Insurance reminds consumers that the enrollment period for individual health insurance plans sold on the federal Marketplace or directly by an insurance company ends on December 15, 2018. Individuals who haven’t shopped for insurance plans are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. Consumers can access the department’s coverage map for more information on companies in their respective county. If you purchase health insurance through the federal marketplace, your cost may be reduced if you are eligible for an advanced premium tax credit (APTC). The credits are only available if you buy insurance on the marketplace and not on policies purchased through your employer. Missourians who have questions regarding association health plans (AHPs) or short-term limited-duration insurance should contact an insurance agent for more information. For more information or to utilize the department’s shopping tool, visit the department’s website at insurance.mo.gov or call the Insurance Consumer Hotline at 800-726-7390

The local Dent County Service Unit of the Salvation Army still needs your help to reach our goal this year. The famous red kettles and volunteer bell ringers will be located at Country Mart, Dollar General and Wal-Mart every Friday and Saturday until Christmas Eve. People will also find numerous counter kettles that are located at various locations throughout the community. The kettles are the primary way that funds are raised to continue to meeting the needs of the less fortunate in our community. This year’s goal is $30,000 which will be used throughout the year for those in need. The Salvation Army will continue its dedication to doing the most good not only during the holiday season, but year round. The work done by the Salvation Army could not be accomplished without the generosity of the citizens of Dent County. In addition to the red kettles, the Salvation Army is again partnering with Wal-Mart to host the Angel Tree. Dent County residents can now adopt an angel off the tree and purchase Christmas gifts for the angel. The Angel tree will be up until Monday, December 17th. If you have any questions about the Angel tree or the Salvation Army, call 729-8163.

The 13th annual Trees and Trains exhibit is open at the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center with this year’s theme: Winter Wonderland at Night. See the beautifully decorated trees along with gorgeous wreaths and other Christmas arrangements, not to mention watching the toy trains, the apple of every young boy’s eye. The exhibit will be open every Monday through Saturday in December through Monday, Christmas Eve on December 24th. The hours at the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center at 202 South Highway 19 in Salem are from 9:00 in the morning until 5:00 in the afternoon Monday through Friday, and on Saturdays from 9:00 in the morning until 1:00 in the afternoon. The Trees and Trains exhibit will be open late tonight until 8:00 for everyone to come and hear the Salem Chamber Choir under the direction of Elaine Russell. They will begin singing at 6:30. The exhibit will be open on Christmas Eve from 9:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon. Santa will also be appearing in his North Pole Workshop from 12:00 until 5:00 on Saturdays beginning this Saturday, December 8th, as well as on the 15th, and 22nd. For more information, call (573) 729-0029.

A two vehicle accident occurred Wednesday morning in Dent County on Highway 32 about four miles west of Salem at 11:00. According to the report released by the Highway Patrol, the accident happened as a 2002 Toyota Tundra, being driven eastbound by 76-year old Fredrick Donaway, of Cabool, slowed to avoid a deer in the roadway and was struck from behind by a 2008 Ford Focus being driven by 18-year old Elizabeth Becherer of Salem. Donaway was taken by private vehicle to Salem Memorial District Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Both drivers were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident. The Toyota received minor damage and was driven from the scene. The Ford Focus sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by Whitakers Towing.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors met Tuesday evening at the Dent County Fire House. After an approval of the consent agenda, the bills for the month of November were reviewed and approved, and the budget was reviewed. The budget showed a general revenue balance at the end of October of $78,711.54. Reimbursement checks were dispersed, with a total of $29,590.00 for the year. All other accounts balanced and are on track with previous years. In the calendar review, it was announced the Toy Drive handout will be on Wednesday, December 19th. The monthly reimbursement report was presented for November and it showed a total of 16 calls for the month. In November, there were five structure fire calls, two flue fires, one car fire, four first responder calls, two vehicle accident calls, and two training calls. There has been 254 calls year to date with the average cost per call being $116.50. Bids for the new heating system were opened and after some discussion, a motion was made and carried to accept the bid from Victor Heating and Cooling for $14,500.00 and will include four 110,000 BTU heaters for the bay. A total of four bids were received. In new business, Chief Brad Nash reported the fire hydrant at the station site has been moved and is now in operation. Secretary Dave Wells reported that there were three Board openings for the April elections and all are 6-year terms. The filing fee has now been changed to match the county filing for of $50.00 in accordance with state statutes. The first board filing date will be December 11th at the Dent County Fire Department. The next meeting date was set for Tuesday, January 8th at 6:00 at the Dent County Fire House. The meeting was then adjourned.

The Spring Creek Artisans Christmas Fest will be held on this Friday evening from 5:00 until 8:00, and Saturday from 9:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon at the historic Bonebrake Center in Salem. You will find unique handcrafted Christmas gifts for everyone on your gift list. A wide variety of handmade items, from original paintings, wood carvings and turnings, pottery, baskets, fiber art, quilts, stained glass, wire wrapped jewelry, cards, metal sculpture, gourd art and Christmas items will be on sale. Come enjoy Christmas cookies, hot apple cider, and holiday music while shopping. Register to win the door prize a beautiful handcrafted wreath by Joanne and Russ Biros. They have several new artists creating beautiful and original work.

Come to Echo Bluff State Park to hear the Salem High School Chamber Choir as they help the park sing in the holiday season from 8:00 to 9:00 this Saturday, December 8th. Festivities begin with the lighting of the Christmas tree in the Betty Lea Lodge. Following the lighting, the Great Room will be filled with seasonal music as the choir performs classic Christmas carols. Finish out the evening in front of the fireplace with refreshments. This event is free and open to public. Echo Bluff State Park is located on Highway 19, approximately 25 miles south of Salem and approximately 14 miles north of Eminence. For more information about the event, call Echo Bluff State Park at 573-751-1224.

The Salem Police Department has released the following reports. On Wednesday morning, November 28th at approximately 10:05, an officer was contacted in reference to someone charging material to the account of another at Roberts Judson lumber valued $1,000.00. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 33-year-old male and a 36-year-old male both of Salem for stealing. Further investigation led to additional charges for both suspects. The 33- year old suspect was also charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. The 36-year old was also charged with the possession of methamphetamine paraphernalia and unlawful possession of a firearm. The two suspects were incarcerated pending warrant applications. A bit later that morning at approximately 11:20 an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department in reference to a burglary. The investigation of the report revealed that a person or persons unknown entered the garage of a residence and took a Husqvarna chainsaw valued at $400.00. The report is under investigation. On Friday morning, November 29th at approximately 10:40, an officer was dispatched to Casey’s General store located on Missouri Highway 32 East in reference to a theft of fuel. The investigation of the report revealed a 61-year old male of Bunker pumped fuel valued at $45.46 and left without paying. The report is under investigation. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding an investigation.

Members of the Salem Chamber of Commerce are providing shoppers the opportunity to win up to $200. To enter, bring your receipts to the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Office and for each $100 spent at Chamber members businesses. Shoppers will be entered in the drawing one time. Only receipts from Salem Chamber Members will be entered and receipts must show business name, the date and the amount of the purchase. Shop now through December 7th and turn in your receipts before 11:00 on Monday, December 10th for the drawing to be held on that date. The third week of shopping will be from December 8th through 14th with receipt turn in by December 17th for the 11:00 AM drawing on that date. The final shopping period will be from December 15th through 21st. There will be an early drawing for the fourth week due to the holidays on December 21st at 11:00. For more information or to acquire a list of Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Members contact the Chamber of Commerce office at (573) 729-6900.

The Missouri Department of Insurance is encouraging consumers who are eligible for Medicare to review their plan options and costs during this year’s open enrollment. The open enrollment period, which runs now through December 7th, presents Missourians with the opportunity to change their Part D drug coverage or Medicare Advantage plans. To help consumers choose a plan that best meets their needs, the department offers free assistance to Missourians who are eligible for Medicare and their caregivers through the department’s CLAIM program. CLAIM can also help Missourians on a limited income determine whether they qualify for a Low-Income Subsidy and/or Medicare Savings Programs to offset the cost of their prescription drugs. Missourians can ask questions by phone or arrange one-on-one counseling by calling 1-800-390-3330 or visiting missouriclaim.org.

Healthy Dent County wants to have some fun on December 21st by holding a Community Wide National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day. Let them know if your business or group wants to participate so they can get a picture to capture the holiday cheer. Dress to impress in your holiday ‘worst.” Just call Healthy Dent County and let them know you want to participate in the Ugly Christmas Sweater Day at 729-8163 or e-mail taylor@salemcommunitycenter.org.

An accident happened in Dent County on Highway 32 about 14 miles east of Salem at 8:40 Tuesday morning. According to the highway patrol report, a 2004 Jeep Liberty driven westbound by 29-year old Samantha Kirkwood of Boss, started to slide and ran off the left side of the roadway where the Jeep struck a guard rail. Kirkwood suffered minor injuries and was taken by Salem Ambulance to the Salem Memorial District Hospital. She was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident and the Jeep sustained moderate damages. It was removed from the by Whitaker’s Towing.

Attention Residents of the City of Salem! Starting today and for the next couple of weeks, the Salem Water Department is going to be flushing fire hydrants all over town. You may notice that your water may be a bit murky for a little while in the area where the hydrants are being flushed. The water is safe to consume and it will clear up once all the hydrants have been flushed.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. At the meeting, Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams reported on the CART monies received in November. She said the county received $56,441.84 compared to $56, 976.93 in November of 2017. Year-to-date, the county is up in CART receipts by $4,031.55. City of Salem Economic Development Director Sally Burbridge was in attendance to present the commission a monthly report of her activities. She reported on business sites and visits, economic prospects, GRO Dent County, available properties and current listings and provided the county with graphs on taxable sales per business group comparisons, sales for the city, sale for Dent County and the unemployment situation in Dent County. Burbridge said she would provide a monthly report to the commission to keep them up to date on her activities. Donald Dodd from the IDA wanted to let the commission know the next meeting of the Industrial Development Authority would be December 12th at 6:00. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell stated materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Roads 4080 and 5530. He said only grading would be done on county road 6040 and brush would be cut on county road 4210. Purcell also indicated shop maintenance was going to be done. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported that materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 2540 while grading only would be done on county roads 3050 and 4280. He also said materials would be added to county roads 2520 and 2530 as part of the Department of Conservation agreement for those roads going into conservation areas. Larson went on to say patch grading would be done on Dent County Roads 3180 and 3220. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles wanted to congratulate all those who were a part of the Christmas Parade of Lights Saturday and for those who attended to watch. He said he has heard nothing but good reviews on the parade. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said she is still working on the 2019 budget requests form office holders. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Dent County Sheriff’s office has released several reports. On Tuesday, November 27th, deputies responded to the 5000 block of Highway YY in reference to a domestic assault. During the course of the investigation, a 61-year old Cedar Hill man was arrested for possession of marijuana. The male was taken to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, issued summons and released. That same day, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Highway 72 near American Muffler and Tire. During the course of the traffic stop, a 22-year old Desoto man was arrested for unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana/synthetic cannabinoid of 10 grams or less. The man was taken to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, issued a summons and released. The next day, Wednesday, November 28th, deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 1400 block of Highway 32 East. During the course of the traffic stop, an 18-year old Salem man was arrested for the possession of marijuana/synthetic cannabinoid of 10 grams or less and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. The man was taken to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, issued a summons and released. And finally on Saturday, December 1st, deputies conducted a traffic stop at US Foods parking lot. During the course of the traffic stop, an 18-year old Salem man was arrested for driving while being intoxicated, minor visibly intoxicated with a blood content more than 0.020%, and operating a motor vehicle in a careless and imprudent manner. He was taken to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, issued summons, and released. If anyone has any information about an ongoing investigation, please call the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 729-3241.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors will conduct their December meeting tonight at the fire station beginning at 6:00 in the evening. After approval of the agenda, as well as the minutes from the November meeting, the Board will hear a financial report, review and approve bills, disburse reimbursement checks and review the budget. The Board will review the calendar for upcoming events and the monthly reimbursement report will be presented. Then the Board will address any old or new business and hear reports. The Board will also set the date for the January meeting to be held at the fire station beginning at 6:00 for January 8th, since the first Tuesday falls on New Years Day. The December meeting of the Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors is open to the public.

Do you want to help make a Dent County child’s Christmas morning bright? You can Adopt-an-Angel from the Salvation Army’s Christmas tree located this year at Wal-Mart. This year a total of 280 children have been registered for this program. This is an increase from previous year’s totals and we need your help in “adopting” these angels. It is easy to help out. Just follow these steps: Select a tag representing a specific child from the Angel tree at Wal-Mart. Then shop for gifts based on the parent’s suggestions. You do not have to purchase everything, this is just a guideline. Once you are finished shopping, bring the unwrapped gifts to the Wal-Mart Service Desk along with the angel tag by Monday, December 17th. Your gifts will be distributed to your adopted “angel” on Wednesday, December 19th. For questions, please contact the Dent County Service Unit of the Salvation Army at 729-8163.

The Salem Chamber Choir will be singing this Thursday night at the Trees and Trains Exhibit at the ONCRC at 202 South Main Street starting at 6:30. Everyone is welcome to attend and there is no charge to enter.

An accident happened in Phelps County on Highway 72 at Phelps County Road 4070 about four miles east of Rolla Friday afternoon at 12:20 that took the life of a Rolla man and left two others with injuries. According to the highway patrol, a 1999 Ford Crown Victoria driven by 20-year old Saad Alsaihan of Rolla, was on the southbound shoulder of Highway 72 when Alsaihan attempted to make a U-turn crossing into the path of a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado driven southbound by 68-year old Carolyn Whitaker of Salem. The Chevy struck the drivers side of the Ford and both vehicles came to rest on the east shoulder of Highway 72. Alsaihan was pronounced dead at th scene by Phelps County Coroner Andy Davis. His body as released to the Phelps County Coroner. Suffering moderate injuries was Carolyn Whitaker and she was taken to the Phelps County regional Medical Center by the Phelps County Ambulance. Minor injuries were suffered by 21-year old Almujaweb Abdulhadi of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and he was taken to the Phelps County Regional Medical Center by the Phelps County Ambulance. Both vehicles were totaled and removed from the scene by C&C Towing of Rolla. Whitaker and Abdulhadi were wearing seat restraints when the accident occurred while Alsaihan was not wearing his seat belt.

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce and City of Salem Christmas Parade of Lights was held Saturday night starting from Grand Avenue and finishing up around the courthouse square. A total of 50 entries were witnessed by numerous onlookers on a breezy, but pleasant evening. This year’s Grand Marshall was George Gruendel. If you missed the parade, go to the KSMO Facebook page for a You Tube video.

The Salem Police Department has released the following reports. On Wednesday afternoon, November 21st at approximately 4:55, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 100 block of Westwood Drive in reference to drug activity. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 40-year old female of Salem for the possession of drug paraphernalia used with opiates. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. Later that night at approximately 10:40, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 43-year old male of St. James for driving while being intoxicated. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. On Friday night, November 23rd at 7:45, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 21-year old male of Salem for driving while having his license suspended. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. A bit later that evening at approximately 8:50, an 18-year old male of Salem turned himself in at the Salem Police Department on warrants from Laclede County, Missouri. The suspect was taken into custody onthe warrant and later released with a court date after posting bond. On Saturday afternoon, November 24th at about 1:50, an officer was dispatched to Classic Joy Ride Auto Sales located on Craig Industrial Drive in reference to a stolen vehicle. That investigation revealed a person or persons unknown stole a blue 1999 Dodge Ram 3500 valued at $12,200.00 from the lot. The report is under investigation. Later that afternoon at approximately 5:12, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of an 81-year old male of Salem for driving while being intoxicated. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. Then on Sunday morning, November 25th at about 4:58, an officer was dispatched to the Casey’s General Store located on Highway 32 in reference to a counterfeit bill. The investigation of the report revealed an unknown person passed a counterfeit one-hundred-dollar bill. The bill was a copy that is used for training people in foreign countries and can be purchased on the internet. These bills usually have red lettering of some kind on one side of the bill. The report is under investigation. Later that afternoon at approximately 3:18, an officer was dispatched to the Casey’s General Store located on Highway 19 South in reference to reported drug use in the parking lot. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 24-year old female of Licking for the possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia and a 27-year old male of Salem for the possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana. The suspects were incarcerated pending the application for warrants. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

An accident in Phelps County Wednesday afternoon at 12:30 On Route HH about two miles north of Route E that left two Rolla residents with serious injuries. According to the report, a 2000 Chevrolet 3500 driven southbound by 47-year old Rodger Jones of Rolla, went off the right side of the road when Jones overcorrected causing the Chevy to travel off the left side of the roadway and where the vehicle struck trees and a fence. Jones was taken to the Phelps County Regional Medial Center with his serious injuries, while a passenger, 30-year old Tiffany McCormick of Rolla was flown to the University Hospital in Columbia with her serious injuries. Jones was not wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident while it is unknown if McCormick was wearing hers. The Chevy Pickup was totaled and removed from the scene by C&C Towing.

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning for their regular meeting at the courthouse. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell stated patch grading would be done on Dent County Road 6090 while materials would be added and patch grading would be done on county road 5510. Purcell said that prior to the patch grading and adding materials, the work crew will have to do road maintenance on county road 5510 as a crossover pipe is exposed. He is asking the public to use caution in that area. Purcell also said workers were servicing grader #24 and the springs are being replaced on snow plow truck #119. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported materials would be added and grading would be done on Dent County Road 2533. He also said work on a creek crossing on Dent County Road 3180 would be done as the culvert pipe is clogged up and materials will have to be added to the road. Larson also said brush would be cut on county roads 2530 and 2540. He went on to report he attended the Dent County Extension Council meeting Monday and also attended the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District Annual Dinner and Awards Banquet Tuesday after the meeting. Dent County Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said he attended the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management Executive Board Meeting Tuesday as well as the dinner and awards banquet. Skiles presented an invoice from the City of Salem for building permits and the plan review of the new jail project. The amount came to $8,730.50. The commissioners approved the bill to be paid. The board also approved the low telephone bid for 7,000 gallons of diesel from County Fuels from Eminence for $2.1060 per gallon. City Administrator Ray Walden and the new Economic Development Director Sally Burbridge came into the meeting at about 9:00. Burbridge discussed her background and talked about getting caught up on city ordinances and policies as well getting acquainted with information on the state of Missouri that can help her with her position. Sarah Massengale from the Dent County Extension Council came in with their budget request for the 2019 fiscal year. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday morning at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

The Salem Police Department has released a number of reports. On Thursday evening, November 15th at about 5:32, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 24-year-old female of Salem for stealing merchandise valued at $24.88. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. That evening at about 11:00, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 19-year-old male of Salem for driving while being intoxicated. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. On Saturday, November 17th at about 6:49 in the evening, an officer was dispatched to the Mobil Convenience Store in reference to a theft. The investigation of the report revealed a 26-year-old male of El Dorado, Missouri had stolen merchandise valued at $23.19. Further investigation led to the arrest of the suspect who was also found to be in possession of marijuana. The suspect was issued summonses to appear in court and released. On Sunday morning, November 18th at 7:24, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 100 block of North Water in reference to an assault. The investigation revealed a 39-year-old female of Salem had assaulted a 47-year-old male of Salem. Further investigation led to the arrest of the suspect who was issued a summons to appear in court and released. That day at about 1:15 PM, an officer was dispatched to Casey’s General Store located on Missouri Highway 32 East in reference to the theft of fuel. The investigation of the report revealed a male driving a silver Kia Optima pumped fuel valued at $39.00 and left without paying. The report is under investigation. On Monday afternoon, November 19th at approximately 4:19, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 1000 block of West Ellis in reference to an assault. The investigation of the report revealed that two females, ages 40 and 47 both of Salem, had assaulted a 26-year-old female of Salem and left the scene. The report is under investigation. If you have information regarding any ongoing investigation, please contact the Salem Police Department at 729-4242.

This Saturday will be a festive day in Salem. Residents and guests are encouraged to check out the 13th Annual Trees and Trains Exhibit at the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center from 9:00 in the morning until 1:00 in the afternoon. It is a collection of beautifully decorated Christmas trees along with wreathes and other Christmas arrangements, not to mention watching those miniature trains make their way through scenery and towns. This year’s theme is “Winter Wonderland at Night.” At the Salem Community Center @The Armory, there will be holiday gift wrapping done to help benefit the Salem High School Project Graduation. If you already have found gifts for your loved ones and don’t have time to wrap them or really just struggle mightily trying wrap, let them do it for you and they only ask for a donation toward Project Graduation. They will be there from 10:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon. They will also have coffee, hot chocolate, candy cane and baked goods available for purchase. Out at the American Legion Walker-Roney Post #99, the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary will have a Kid’s Party for children from newborn up to 10-years of age. There will be a Coloring Center, gifts, crafts, cookies and juice, and parents can take pictures of their children with Santa, but bring your own camera as no photographer will be in attendance. Also on Saturday, Town & Country Bank will be hosting an Open House. Santa Claus is expected to make an appearance there plus they will have cookies and cocoa available. Stop by anytime between 2:00 and 4:00 in the afternoon at the Highway 32-72 East location. And of course, the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce and City of Salem annual Christmas Parade of Lights will start at 5:30 starting on Grand Avenue and making its way east down Franklin, then going north on McArthur and turning east at 4th Street before ending around the courthouse square. The theme this year is “The Wonder of Christmas Morning” with George Gruendel from Salem having been selected as this year’s Parade Marshall. As of Wednesday at noon, there were 43 entries in the parade. Make plans to attend all the events if you can, and enjoy getting into the season this Saturday in Salem!

A accident happened early Wednesday morning at 6:31 in Phelps County about a mile north of Rolla on Phelps Country Road 2030. According to the highway patrol report, a 2010 Chevrolet Impala being driven by 22-year old Samantha Vaughan of Rolla was traveling northbound when she fell asleep. The vehicle traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck a tree. The Chevrolet was totaled in the accident and removed from the scene by C & C Towing. Vaughan received minor injuries and was taken to Phelps County Regional Medical Center for treatment. The driver was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident.

Members of the Salem Chamber of Commerce are providing shoppers the opportunity to win up to $200. To enter, bring your receipts to the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Office and for each $100 spent at Chamber members businesses. Shoppers will be entered in the drawing one time. Only receipts from Salem Chamber Members will be entered and receipts must show business name, the date and the amount of the purchase. Shop now through November 30th, then turn in the receipts before 11:00 Monday morning, December 3rd for the drawing to be held that morning. Receipts for December 1st through 7th drawing are to be turned in by December 10th for the 11:00 AM drawing on that date. The third week of shopping will be from December 8th through 14th with receipt turn in by December 17th for the 11:00 AM drawing on that date. The final shopping period will be from December 15th through 21st. There will be an early drawing for the fourth week due to the holidays on December 21st at 11:00. For more information or to acquire a list of Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Members contact the Chamber of Commerce office at (573) 729-6900.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will host public open houses in December and take comments on options for a future, limited elk-hunting season in Missouri. MDC will hold the open houses in communities around its elk management zone in Carter, Reynolds, and Shannon counties. They will run from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and be held Monday, December 3rd at Van Buren High School Cafeteria, on Tuesday, December 4th at Ellington City Hall and Thursday, December 6th at Eminence High School Cafeteria. At the open houses, MDC staff will inform the public about how the Department is managing wild elk in and around its elk management zone in the Ozarks, including herd size and anticipated growth, herd health, and how MDC is working with area landowners. MDC staff will also seek public input for a limited, future elk hunting season, including season timing, season length, hunting methods, permit allocation, future landowner opportunities, and more. Staff will also be available to answer questions. To learn more about the elk population in Missouri from the Conservation Department, check out this site: nature.mdc.mo.gov/

The Salem Varsity Quiz Bowl team fell just short of capturing the Salem Invitational Tournament Saturday, November 17th as they took 2nd place, losing to Jeff City Helias Catholic Team “A” in the finals by the score of 280-210. Each team had gone undefeated into that final match. The Salem JV Quiz Bowl team also played well and came in 3rd in the tournament. Five Salem Quiz Bowl players took individual trophies in the tournament: Arley Gale took the 2nd Place Individual Varsity Medal, Katrina Parks took the 3rd Place Individual Varsity Medal and Martin Jones took the 7th Place Individual Varsity Medal. Nate Darby captured the 2nd Place individual JV Medal and Ashton Haffer was able to snare the 6th Place JV Individual Medal. Playing on the varsity team were Gale, Parks, Jones, Olivia Erway and Emma Schott; while the JV team was comprised of Darby, Haffer and Alyssa Stotler as the JV played a person short in the tournament. The Salem Quiz Bowl Teams are coached by Susan Sheeley and Will Hubbs.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released some reports. On November 21st, deputies received a report of a burglary that had occurred near the 1200 block of Dent County Road 4090. During the course of the investigation, a dresser, tool box, bolt bin, and several other items were found to be stolen. This report is still under investigation. That same day, deputies conducted a traffic stop at the AutoZone Parking lot. During the course of the traffic stop, items that field tested positive for methamphetamine were found inside the vehicle. As a result a 53-year-old Salem woman was arrested for possession of a controlled substance. The female was taken to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. If anyone has information on the burglary, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

The Salem Police Department has released a number of reports. On Friday, November 9th at about 9:50 in the evening, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 34-year-old male of Springfield, Missouri for the possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while having his license suspended. The suspect was issued summonses to appear in court and released. On Tuesday morning, November 13th at approximately 10:01, an officer was dispatched to Phil-Mart in reference to a stolen vehicle. That investigation revealed an unknown male stole a gray 2002 Ford Focus while the owner went in to pay for fuel. That afternoon at about 1:30, an officer located the stolen vehicle and the suspect at McDonald’s restaurant. The suspect, a 20-year-old male of Cuba, Missouri, was taken into custody and incarcerated pending the application for warrants. Also on Tuesday afternoon at about 2:56, November 13th, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The investigation of the report revealed that a 36 year-old female of Salem had stolen merchandise valued at $14.04 and left the store. The report is under investigation. That evening at about 6:03, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 1000 block of East First in reference to an assault. The investigation of the report revealed that a 26 year-old female of Salem had assaulted a 37 year-old female and a 23 year-old female, both of Salem. Further investigation led to the arrest of the suspect who was issued a summons to appear in court and released. On Wednesday, November 14th at about 1:30 in the afternoon, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 100 block of North Park in reference to someone tampering with city utilities. That investigation revealed a 56-year-old male suspect had tampered with a utility base in order to obtain free electricity. The report is under investigation. If you have information regarding any ongoing investigation, please contact the Salem Police Department at 729-4242.

The US Small Business Administration is hosting a comprehensive workshop designed to help our community become Rural Strong on Wednesday, December 5th. This workshop will inform entrepreneurs, small business owners and stakeholders about all the federal services and programs that are available in the area through the SBA and the USDA’s Rural Development Agency. Government and community organizations are also welcome to come and learn about the programs as well as the lending products and resources powered by the SBA. Interested participants will also learn about new SBA rural loan fee reductions and other SBA incentives. This workshop will be held from 10:00 in the morning until noon at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission at #4 Industrial Drive in St. James. Pre-registration is requested, but not required. All SBA programs are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. For more information, contact Angela Wells at 314-539-6613 or Thomas Daiber at 314-539-6612.

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) shows that young hunters ages 6 through 15 harvested 2,556 deer during Missouri’s late youth portion of the 2018 deer hunting season, November 23rd through the 25th. Of the 2,556 deer harvested, 1,140 were antlered bucks, 336 were button bucks, and 1,080 were does. In Dent County, 24 deer were harvested made up of 10 antlered bucks, 4 button bucks and 10 does. Last year’s harvest total for the late youth portion was 3,115. Archery deer hunting continues through January 15th, 2019. The alternative methods portion will run December 22nd through January 1st, 2019.