Local News

An accident occurred Saturday morning around 12:45 in Phelps County on I-44 Eastbound mile marker 189 exit ramp. According to the highway patrol report a 2016 Jeep Wrangler driven by a 16-year-old juvenile female from St. James attempted to overtake a 2009 Volvo VNL Semi Truck driven by a 60-year-old male from Detroit, MI. The Jeep failed to clear the lane before merging, causing the Volvo to strike the rear of the Jeep. The Jeep travelled off the right side of the roadway and overturned.  Two occupants were ejected from the Jeep. The Jeep’s driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to Phelps Health Rolla by Phelps Health Ambulance; she was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. Two juvenile female occupants a 15-year-old and a 16-year-old both from St. James suffered moderate injuries and were transported to Phelps Health Rolla by Phelps Health Ambulance; it is unknown if they were wearing safety restraints.  A 16-year-old female juvenile from Rolla suffered serious injuries and was flown by Air Evac to University Hospital Columbia, she was not wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. An 18-year-old female from St. James also suffered serious injuries and was flown to University Hospital Columbia by Mercy Life Line. According to the highway patrol report she was not wearing a safety restraint. The Jeep was totaled and removed from the scene by C&C Towing. The Volvo sustained minor damage and was driven from the scene.

An accident occurred Saturday morning around 8:55 in Phelps County on the north outer road just east of Highway V. According to the highwaypatrol report a 1994 Chevrolet Suburban driven by a 21-year-old male from Rolla was travelling westbound and travelled off the right side of the roadway and overturned. The driver was partly ejected. The driver suffered serious injuries and was flown to University Hospital in Columbia. The report goes on to say he was not wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene by Spurgeon’s Towing. 

You’re invited to attend the next Salem and Dent County meeting of “Sleep in Heavenly Peace” this evening starting at 5:30 and lasting until 6:30 in the evening at the Salem Community Center@The Armory in the Rotary Room! Upcoming events, needs, and more will be discussed. The Dent County Chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a 501c3 non-profit that provides a new, free bed to children in need in our community who do not have a bed between the ages of 3 and 17. Mark your calendars and please join them, and new volunteers are welcome!! If you are not able to help physically, donations of new bedding are always welcome to help provide a good night’s sleep to the area children. Monetary donations are also accepted. Please make checks payable to Sleep in Heavenly Peace and designate the MO-DENT County Chapter. If you have questions, please contact Patti McKeown at 703-964-6495 or e-mail her at patti.mckeown@shpbeds.org.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen held its regular meeting Tuesday evening in the City Auditorium at 202 N. Washington Street. Following approval of the agenda and consent agenda, Mayor Greg Parker recognized the tenth anniversary of the Hero’s Marathon and presented organizers with an official proclamation from the City of Salem. Oren Pogue, a representative from the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC), gave a presentation on an active transportation planning project proposing a 15.8-mile bicycle network throughout the city. The Board appointed Linda Maxwell to the Salem Public Library Board of Trustees and scheduled public hearings for two annexation petitions for Thursday, November 13, during the next regular meeting. Two bids were approved: one from Trojan Technologies in the amount of $13,976.12 for ultraviolet (UV) products to maintain operations at the Wastewater Treatment Plant—leaving $1,023.88 remaining in the plant’s equipment maintenance budget and another from Fire Hydrant Services and Repair for $9,750 to complete maintenance on 60 fire hydrants across the city. Funds for the latter will come from the fire hydrant maintenance and rebuild contract, which has $15,000 budgeted. Under new and miscellaneous business, the Board approved a list of state and federal legislative priorities for 2026. Members also discussed a request from resident Nancy Major for utility service outside city limits for a small structure on her property intended to house a bakery. Major explained that city utility representatives had previously requested permission to install a storm siren on her property in exchange for an easement allowing access to city utilities, without having to voluntarily annex into city limits, but the agreement was never finalized. The Board voted to table the matter pending legal review and verification of the alleged verbal agreement. The Board also approved Resolution No. 24-2025, an intergovernmental agreement with Dent County providing $25,000 to support sidewalk and lighting improvements around the courthouse. Additional approvals included updates to the city’s Utility Identity Theft Policy; Resolution No. 26-2025, authorizing participation in the CGI Digital Street Banner Program, which will feature 25 commemorative “Happy 250th Birthday America” banners with city branding, which will come at no cost to the City of Salem, no city budget allocation, in kind donations, staff time or labor, and a supplemental agreement for electrical services completed by Intercounty Electric Cooperative for the new T-Hangar at the Salem Airport. The city will request reimbursement of $3,788 for those services. The Board also approved a Capital Improvement update for the airport. After receiving reports from city officials, the meeting adjourned to executive session for attorney-client discussions. The next Board of Aldermen meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 13, in the City Auditorium, due to the Veterans Day holiday on November 11.

Missouri families should utilize the extra hour they’ll gain this weekend as they roll back their clocks to step up fire safety precautions in their homes. On Sunday morning at 2:00, clocks “fall back” one hour as daylight saving time ends. This time of year has always been considered a good time for installing, maintaining and replacing batteries in your home smoke alarms. With the colder weather on the way, space heaters are a factor in about 43% of home heating-related fires and 85% of associated deaths. They should only be placed on the floor, and if they are propane, they need to be vented. It is time to make fire safety a habit with all family members, including children.

The Salem Memorial Hospital regular board meeting was held Tuesday evening in the Hospital Library. The board heard from CEO Brook Bollman who stated she attended the Missouri Hospital Association District 3 meeting where rural health transformation funding was discussed. She reported that the providers are transitioning to a new staffing model where the emergency room and hospital staff are covering both departments. She also stated there was a fiscal year 2025 on site audit prep with the new CPA firm Wipfli out of St. Louis as they plan to have the return for the hospital done on time. Bollman also stated there was a team facility and landscaping workday, plus the Long-Term Care Center held their 1st ever fall festival. Bollman gave the summary of operations for the month of September where the hospital had 52 inpatient admissions with 122 inpatient census days. The hospital showed a gain from operations of $833,138.92 and revenues over expenses after taxes of $1,002,518.71. This was a result of a change suggested by their new accounting firm of recognizing allowances and uncollectibles by service and insurance in September. During the month, there were 629 emergency room visits as well as 218 ambulance runs. Outpatient registrations came in at 1,180 for the month with 855 cardiopulmonary procedures, 5,465 lab tests, 1,202 radiology procedures and 532 rehab treatments, while 1,175 visited the rural health clinic. Bollman reported there were 23 days cash on hand at the end of September, but that is up to 30 days as of Tuesday. She also stated the 340B program had $118,044 in revenues for September that netted out at $59,454. Chief Nursing Officer Amber Hogan reported the state Long Term Care inspectors showed up on the day of their fall festival and even though they are waiting on the report, they were told only three small things were found and they were not patient related. Hogan said she attended an MHA workforce innovation workshop, discussed staffing updates, developed an EMT training program which has ten students, her LPN IV push certification program is finished, and the skillapalooza will be held on December 9th and 10th for all clinical departments. Hogan stated the hospital had three hires in September, but there are still 12 openings at the hospital including a need for a full-time paramedic for EMS. Quality Improvement and Risk Management Officer Kendra Mobray stated Sarah Arnett has taken over as the TORCH grant manager, plus she developed an internal application process for emerging leaders to participate in. Mobray said there were a total of 27 risk assessment reports that were investigated in September. The board approved the purchase of a cardiopulmonary rehabilitation monitoring system from ScottCare for $54,000, approved the purchase of a blanket warmer for the hospital from Getinge for $6,377.00; and the board also approved hiring the physician recruiting firm Jackson Physician Search with an initial fee of $3,500, $3,000 per month for advertising and outreach, and a $23,000 placement fee if a physician is hired within four months which drops to an $18,000 fee if it takes six months. The meeting was then adjourned.

It’s that time of year when young ghosts, vampires, clowns, and superheroes are out for their night of trick-or-treating. While some local events take place in large parking lots, many trick-or-treaters will be out on Halloween night. It’s imperative that drivers and pedestrians stay alert. During this exciting time, children could dart in front of a vehicle. Slow down and drive with extra caution. Expect an increase in the number of slow-moving vehicles in neighborhoods as motorists pick up and drop off trick-or-treaters. Please be courteous to other drivers and stay alert for trick-or-treaters of all ages. Distracted drivers are dangerous drivers─ when you’re driving, keep your eyes on the road, not on your phone! Parents, please remind children of safe trick-or-treating practices: approach only familiar houses that are well-lit, don’t enter strangers’ houses or vehicles, and look both ways before crossing the street. Consider trick-or-treating with your children for their safety and because it’s a fun way to spend an evening with the family. Give some thought to safety when choosing a costume. Consider using make-up rather than wearing a mask, which can obstruct a child’s vision, making it difficult to see an oncoming vehicle. A light-colored costume is easier for drivers to see at night and adding reflective tape to dark costumes makes them visible after dark. Flame resistant costumes are encouraged. An adult should always accompany small children, and older children should stay in groups. Halloween isn’t just for children. Many adults enjoy dressing up and visiting haunted houses or attending gatherings. If you are driving to a costume party, make sure your costume doesn’t hamper your vision. If you attend a Halloween party that includes alcohol, designate a sober driver for the trip home. Alcohol, even in small amounts, slows reaction time and dulls the senses. Driving after you’ve had alcohol could have a sad and possibly deadly result. Have a safe, happy Halloween!

A Flat Reed Basket Weaving Class will be held Sunday afternoon from 2:00 to 4:00 with Connie Light. In this class you will learn a basic basket making technique that can be used as a foundation to many other future basket making projects. You will make a white oak pie basket with a handle! This class is for those who are 14 years of age and older. The cost is $55 which includes all your supplies. At least two people need to sign up for the class which would be limited to six. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center.

Intercounty Electric Cooperative Association will be holding their Member Appreciation Day at the Dent County Commons from 11:00 this morning until 1:00 this afternoon. Everyone is welcome to come out for free hot dogs, chips and soda, while members can register for a $50 electric credit.

With deer and turkey hunting underway in Missouri, the Missouri Department of Conservation reminds non-hunters to practice safety measures when afield during hunting seasons. According to Hunter Education Coordinator Justin McGuire, safety while hunting is ultimately the responsibility of the hunter. Hunters must clearly identify their targeted game animals before even putting their fingers on the triggers of their firearms or before drawing their bows when archery hunting. They must also be aware of what is behind their targets and should never shoot at movement or sound. McGuire added that non-hunters out in hunting areas can also practice some safety measures. Here are some safety tips for non-hunters: Wear bright clothing to be more visible, such as a bright orange hat, jacket, or pack; place a bright orange vest or bandana on the canines who join you and keep them leashed;   avoid earth-toned or animal-colored clothing such as tan and brown; be aware that hunters are often most active during the early morning and late afternoon, when game animals are most active; and be especially aware of your own visibility during these times when light is dim. McGuire also says to stay on designated trails. Trails are designed to improve the safety of public users and to protect sensitive habitats. Enjoying recreational activities only on designated trails will reduce the likelihood of entering hunting areas, plus don’t forget to let someone know where you are going and when to expect your return. McGuire says hunters or non-hunters need to identify hunting seasons and lands open to hunting. Learn where and when hunting is taking place. Plan your recreation activities based on this information. Find out more information on Missouri hunting seasons at mo.gov/hunting-trapping. If you are not sure which conservation areas allow hunting and those that do not by using the MDC Places to Go web feature at mo.gov/discover-nature/places. Going on now, Archery deer and turkey hunting and that season runs through November 14th, then opens again November 26th through January 15th, 2026. The Firearms turkey hunting season is now open until October 31st. Firearms deer hunting season opens with the early antlerless portion October 10th through the 12th followed by several other hunting portions through January 6th, 2026.

Healthy Dent County will be having their 7th Annual Casino Night Fundraiser this Saturday, November 1st at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory with a “Red Carpet Glamour” theme. If guests dress to match the theme, they will receive an additional $1,000 in gaming money when they arrive. Doors will open Saturday evening at 5:30 with the gaming beginning at 6:30 and lasting until 9:00. The event features game tables much like the ones you will find in a real casino, as well as a number of professional dealers to run the games. Traditional games such as craps, roulette and blackjack are available, alongside a cash bar. An additional blackjack table has been added and new this year, reservations are available! Eliminate the hassle of arriving early to grab a table! Now, you can reserve a table for you and your friends for just $100! Returning this year will be the simulated horse races provided by KSMO Media throughout the evening. The winners of these races will receive special tickets for a drawing to win a stay at the Crown Lake Resort in Horseshoe Bend, Arkansas, featuring a two bedroom, two bath condo with a full kitchen for Sunday, July 6th through Saturday, July 11th! At the end of the evening, prizes will be drawn including a $300 Wal-Mart gift card; Virtual Reality Metaquest; Wood Barrell, Waver Vibration Plate, Book Shelf, three piece Lounge Chair Set; Customized Name Log; Futon Chair/Bed; King Size Quilt, Vacuum, Stevens 243 Rifle Furniture, 55-inch TV, Propane Gift Certificate, Missouri State Park Map, Charcoal, and more. Event ticket holders will receive $10,000 in “gaming” money to play the casino games of their choice throughout the evening. At the end of the evening, prizes are drawn after exchanging gaming money for tickets. The event would not be possible without many local businesses sponsoring the event with American Family Insurance agent Jonah Schafer being the main event sponsor. Casino Night tickets are still available at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory at 1200 West Rolla Road. For more information, please call 729-8163.

Governor Mike Kehoe announced the application for Missouri’s Public Safety Recruitment and Retention Act Scholarship is now open. The scholarship delivers tuition support for first responders and their families. Full-time police officers, firefighters, paramedics, telecommunicator first responders, emergency medical technicians, and advanced emergency medical technicians with at least six years of service may be eligible to receive the scholarship. Additionally, the dependent children of those with at least 10 years of service may also qualify. Applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements, including be a Missouri resident and complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To apply, interested individuals must create an account and complete the application through the State Financial Aid Portal. In addition to the application, individuals will be required to upload and submit documentation verifying employment, Missouri residency, and other eligibility requirements. The scholarship application and supporting documents must be submitted to the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD) by November 5th, 2025, to be considered for the 2025-2026 school year. This covers tuition and fees for the entire academic year, including the current fall semester. For more information about the Public Safety Recruitment & Retention Act Scholarship, visit the MDHEWD website. 

Firearm deer season will begin soon in Missouri with the Early Youth Portion to be held this weekend, November 1st and 2nd. The regular November portion runs from November 15th through the 25th followed by the CWD Portion which will be held November 26th through November 30th in open counties. The Late Youth Portion runs from November 28th through November 30th. Archery deer hunting in Missouri continues through November 14th. It reopens November 26th and runs through January 15th, 2026. Get more information on deer hunting from MDC’s 2025 Fall Deer & Turkey Regulations and Information booklet, available where permits are sold and online at mdc.mo.gov.

The Salem Memorial Hospital Board meeting will be held this evening at 7:00 at the hospital library. At the meeting after public comments are heard, the board will hear a report from Chief Executive Officer Brooke Bollman and the Chief Financial Officer who will provide the statistical summary of operations for the month of September as well as presenting the monthly financials for board approval. The board will also hear the Chief of Nursing, Human Resources and Quality Improvement-Risk Management reports. In new business, the board will discuss and approve cardiopulmonary equipment as well as emergency department equipment. The board may then go into executive session. The Salem Memorial Hospital Board meeting is open to the public.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse. Dent County Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson was not in attendance due to a prior commitment and Deputy Clerk Melissa Piatt appointed Jimmy Williams as temporary presiding commissioner for the meeting. KSMO Media’s Stan Podorski reported the MRPC Awards Banquet held Thursday went well with Dent County Clerk Angie Curley receiving a Community Services Award. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said brush would be cut on county roads 5520 and 5530, while other crews will be checking roads and doing shop maintenance. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported workers will be replacing the tires on Grader #37 and servicing County Truck #82. Williams indicated grading will be done in the White River Trace area and crews will be checking other roads for damages from the rain. Williams also wanted to report that Dent County Road 2070 will be closed until at least Thursday after crews last week had to replace a low-water crossing. This will give some time for the concrete to cure. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

With fall here and as winter nears, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds people that Missouri’s estimated 1,000+ black bears are focused on fattening up and can spend up to 20 hours a day foraging for food. This can lead to conflicts between bears and people, pets, and property. MDC reminds Missourians to be BearWise. MDC Furbearer Biologist Nate Bowersock said it is important that people remove or secure bear attractants from their property, such as bird feeders, trash, barbeque grills, pet food, and food waste. Bowersock went on to say that Black bears are super-focused on finding food in the fall. The quest for calories keeps bears active and foraging up to 20 hours a day. When the eating is good, a bear can put on two to three pounds a day. By hibernation time, many bears will have added about four inches of fat and gained between 20% and 50% of their summer body weight. This annual feeding frenzy is called “hyperphagia” and is driven by bears’ ticking biological clocks counting down to hibernation, when most bears in colder climates retire for the winter and live off the fat they’re working so hard now to accumulate. He said that keeping areas free of food attractants and letting bears find natural foods is in everyone’s best interest. If you see a bear, let the animal be and enjoy the sighting, but be sure to not offer it any food. Bowersock added that intentionally feeding bears can be dangerous because it makes them comfortable around people and can lead bears to cause significant damage to property while searching for food. He noted that when bears lose their fear of humans, they could approach people in search of food or may become defensive of the food sources they find near people, which could lead to conflict. When this happens, the bear cannot be relocated and has to be destroyed. A fed bear is a dead bear. MDC offers the tips to avoid attracting black bears to possible food sources. Be sure to store garbage, recyclables, and compost inside secure buildings or in bear-proof containers. Keep grills and smokers clean and store them inside a building. Don’t leave pet food outside. Feed pets each meal and remove the empty containers. Refrain from using bird feeders in bear country from April through November. If in use, hang them at least 10 feet high and 4 feet away from any structure. Keep in mind that even if a bear cannot get to the birdseed, the scent could still attract it to the area. Use electric fencing to keep bears away from beehives, chicken coops, vegetable gardens, orchards, and other potential food sources. Keep campsites clean and store all food, toiletries and trash in a secure vehicle or strung high between two trees. Do not keep food or toiletries in a tent, and do not burn or bury garbage or food waste. Black bears are generally a shy, non-aggressive species. Follow these tips when outdoors in bear country to avoid unwanted encounters. Make noise, such as clapping, singing or talking loudly, while hiking to prevent surprising a bear. It’s best to travel in a group if possible and keep dogs leashed. Be aware of the surroundings. If there is evidence of a bear, such as tracks or scat, avoid the area. Above all leave bears alone! Do not approach them, and make sure they have an escape route. For more information on how to be BearWise and to report a bear sighting, visit mdc.mo.gov/bearwise. 

A Cyanotypes 101 class will be held this Saturday morning from 10:00 until 12:00 noon with M Emilia Barbose at the Creative Arts Center at 202 South Main Street. Come enjoy the magic of cyanotypes in both paper and fabric supports as the distinct “blueprints” will emerge in front of our very eyes. At least three people aged 18 and older need to sign up for the class which will be limited at 12. The cost is $35 which includes all the supplies. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center. Are you needing a gift for a birthday, or a thank you? You can now get gift certificates from the Creative Arts Center. Simply fill out the informational form here sacba.org/event-details/digital-gift-certificate, then you may either print it or have it emailed directly to your recipient. The card is worth $25 and can be used towards any class or event now up to December 30, 2026.

The Salem Police Department released a report that states on October 25, 2025, the Salem Police Department responded to a report of shots fired at a vehicle in the area of Warfel and East Scenic Rivers Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers initiated an investigation, processed the scene, and began gathering evidence. Preliminary findings indicated that a single shot had been fired into a moving motor vehicle occupied by three juvenile subjects. Following the initial response, investigators continued to collect evidence and work to locate the suspect. Through coordinated efforts with the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, officers identified and apprehended one individual in connection with the incident. The suspect, identified as Allen Smith, was taken into custody and transported to the Salem Police Department for further investigation. Smith was then transported to the Dent County Jail and held awaiting formal charges. A probable cause statement was submitted to the Dent County Prosecutor’s Office, which subsequently filed a Felony Complaint in the Circuit Court of Dent County. The Honorable Judge Kelsaw has issued a NO BOND warrant for the following charges: Three counts of Assault in the 1st Degree, one count of Armed Criminal Action, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm, and Property Damage 2nd Degree. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Salem High School FFA members recently competed in 8 of the 11 Fall Public Speaking categories that were available. Most of the speech topics are based on commodity groups or cooperatives. FFAers select the topic they want to speak on, then do the necessary research, write and re-write the speech, and finally after hours and hours of practice enter competition. Salem’s FFA members were very successful bringing home five firsts, two seconds, and one sixth place. Maggie Hogan won 1st in the Soil & Water division, while Dalli Johnson was 1st in Young Farmers/Farm Wives division, and Abbi Terrill was 1st in Missouri Sheep Producers division. Makena Faulkner took 1st in Missouri Institute of Cooperatives and Konner Headrick was 1st in Missouri Cattleman’s division. John Cunningham came in 2nd in the Farm Bureau division, Madison King was 2nd in Missouri Forest Products division, and Sylvia McDonald was 6th in Missouri Teach Ag division. Congratulations Salem FFA Tigers on your outstanding performance.

Temperatures have dropped, and that nostalgic “fall feeling” has come. The Department of Conservation is reporting that the sweet spot of peak leaf color change is coming soon. This week all the oaks have begun to change. As usual, some are further along than others, but by now every oak should have at least a tinge of change. Other fall color highlights right now are the hickory species, including black, mockernut, shagbark, shellbark, pignut and bitternut. These trees are currently displaying brilliant shades of yellow with some even seeming yellowish orange. The red maples, sumacs, sassafras, dogwoods and black gums continue to make a show of red color, with some starting to fade. For more information you can visit the Missouri Department of Conservation website at mdc.mo.gov.

The 4th Annual Salem Trunk or Treat will be held Halloween night on 4th Street from Highway 19, also known as Main Street, to MacArthur. If your organization or your business would like to be a vendor at the event, you can still be included. Vendors will be handing out candy on 4th Street Halloween evening from 6:00 until 8:00. If you would like to help, the organizers are still accepting donations of prepackaged candy or monetary contributions that will be used to purchase additional candy for the event. If donating money, donation receipts for tax purposes can be provided. The “Trunk or Treat” event is being held to provide the children of the community a safe and controlled area to trick or treat with their parents. Decorations and costumes are asked to be family friendly. For more information on being a vendor, or if you want to make a donation of cash or by check, please contact Deputy Derrick Marfitt at derrickmarfitt@gmail.com or by phone at 573-247-7504; or Sergeant Chris Robbins at crobbins1264@gmail.com. 

The Missouri Department of Conservation and Rolla Parks & Recreation will host a free Introduction to Atlatl event November 1 from 1:00 to 5:00 in the afternoon at Green Acres Park in Rolla. MDC Conservation Educator Dwight Warnke will instruct the program. The minimum age is 10 due to the strength and control required to throw a dart with an atlatl. The program is not recommended for adults with shoulder or back injuries. All equipment will be provided by MDC. Registration is not required. Green Acres Park is located at 550 Green Acres Drive in Rolla. For more information, contact Dwight Warnke at Dwight.Warnke@mdc.mo.gov. To request ADA accommodation, visit mdc.mo.gov/accessibility. 

It’s not too late to attend the popular Healthy Dent County line dancing classes! The last two classes will be tomorrow and next Tuesday evening at 6:30. The cost is $5.00 per person, and participants pay at the door. The classes will be held at the Salem Community Center@The Armory at 1200 West Rolla Road. For more information, call Susie at 573-739-1127.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams presented the CART tax money received in October. She said the county received $97,509.94 which is up from October of 2024 by $8,553.04. Year-to-date, the CART tax is up $62,121.27 over 2024 which is an increase of about 7.7%. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green stated crews were patching Dent County chip and seal roads 6040 and 6510, while brush would be cut on county road 5520. Green indicated grading was going to be done on county roads 5140, 6210, 6310 and 6350. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams said workers would be adding rock and grading on county road 2380. He stated grading would also be done on county roads 2320, 2560, 3020 and 3030, while brush will be cut on county road 2130. Williams said a tree had to be removed from county road 3220. Dent County Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said he attended the tourism tax committee meeting and one reimbursement was approved. No applications were submitted to be funded. Larson said the tourism tax fund has money available to help market special events in Salem provided people submit a request that follows the committee’s guidelines. Larson attended the MRPC Annual Awards banquet Thursday night at the Salem Community Center@The Armory where Dent County Clerk Angie Curley was recognized for her service to the county. Clerk Curley then reported she had 15 students register to vote Tuesday at the high school, then returned Wednesday to the high school to talk with the Life Skills Class. The commission opened bids for the county’s liability, equipment, autos and buildings coverage. Mike Elliott from Town and Country Insurance had only one bid to submit which was from Tokio Marine which is the current insurer for the county. The quote for the insurance was $373,186, and that was an increase of about $107,000 over last year which included a raise in the deductible from $2,500 to $5,000, as well as an increase in the wind and hail damage deductible. The bid was tabled by the commission to review and see if there was any way to reduce the premium with increased deductibles or just having liability insurance on many of the vehicles. The commission then accepted four bids for lawn care and snow removal. They were from TL Mowing LLC, JB Lawn Care, Garden of Eden Nursery and Ron Lundy. The commission tabled the bids to review them and make sure they are comparing each of their services correctly. At the last meeting, the commissioners wanted to remind the public the Road and Bridge Department is selling two dump trucks and a road groomer on Purple Wave and anyone can bid on those items with the closing bid date being November 4th. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

The Missouri Department of Conservation invites the public to finish their hunter education certification at an event in Salem on October 27th. This event is the final step to becoming hunter education certified, and the classes are designed for participants ages 11 and older. Have you always wanted to firearm hunt on your own? The Fall regular firearm deer season is November 15th through the 25th. First you need to get certified! Join the Department of Conservation personnel at Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center for a Hunter Education skills session on October 27th from 5:00 to 9:00 in the evening. Participants must be 11 years old and have completed the knowledge portion of the course prior to attending this skills session. This is done either by completing the online version for a fee or filling out the student manual chapter review questions and bringing the booklet to class for instructor review for no charge. Student manuals are available at the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center, the Rolla Missouri Department of Conservation office at 12655 Route Y in Rolla, or from the MDC website at mdc.mo.gov. Students under 16 are required to show proof of age such as a birth certificate; a passport; or a photo ID that displays a birthdate when checking in. After successfully completing the skills session and passing a 35-question, multiple-choice final with a score of 80%or better, you will receive a temporary certificate so you can purchase a permit and hunt immediately. To register for the October 27th Hunter Education Skills Session, go to mdc.mo.gov. and click on the “Hunter/Bowhunter Education Course Finder,” go to the Hunter Education Skills Session tap, and search for the Salem location where you can register online. The class is open to 30 participants. For any questions, e-mail the instructor at Dwight.Warnke@mdc.mo.gov. The Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center is located at 202 South Main Street in Salem.

The DEA national “Medication Take Back” Day will be held Saturday, October 25th from 10:00 in the morning until 12:00 noon at Wal-Mart on Highway 32-72 West sponsored by the Healthy Dent County Prevention Coalition. Bring your unused and/or expired medication to be safely disposed of. By doing so, you will keep unwanted or expired medication away from kids, persons struggling with substance abuse, and please DO NOT FLUSH IT DOWN THE DRAIN!! Members of the Drug Enforcement Agency, Salem Police Department and Dent County Sheriff’s Department will be on hand to assist with medication collection. Items that will NOT be accepted are syringes or needles, blood and infectious waste, hydrogen peroxide, aerosol cans and inhalers. If you can’t make it that Saturday morning, there are permanent disposal boxes at the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 112 East 5th Street and at the Salem Police Department at 500 North Jackson Streets.

The City of Salem will be offering utility payment plans to help ease the impact of the federal government shutdown. The city understands the shutdown may cause delays or interruptions in SNAP and other benefit programs that many local families rely on. They know this uncertainty can cause real stress — especially when it comes to keeping up with essential household bills. To help ease the burden, the City of Salem would like to remind residents that they offer utility payment plans for those who may need extra time to catch up on their bills. A payment plan allows city utility customers to spread out a past-due balance over time, making smaller, more manageable payments while keeping their account in good standing. Customers can take up to 12 months to pay off a past-due amount, in addition to paying their current monthly utility bill. As long as payments are made on time according to the plan, no late fees will be added to the account. To avoid disconnection of utility services, customers must set up a payment plan before Tuesday, October 28th, when disconnects are scheduled to occur. To set up a payment plan, customers must come to the Salem Administration Building at 400 N. Iron Street and sign a payment plan contract. Customers are encouraged to pay what they can at the time the plan is set up. The city understands that times like these can be difficult, and they want residents to know that help is available. Their goal is to work with you, not against you, so your utility services can stay active while you get back on track. Residents who would like more information can contact the Salem Utility Office at (573) 729-4117 or visit City of Salem Administration Building during regular business hours.

The Dent County Health Center (DCHC) Board of Trustees met, October 16th at 5:00. Administrator Zach Moser presented the Service and Statistics report for the month of September. In the Communicable Disease Report, he stated there were no cases of COVID-19 reported, however the virus is known to be present in the community, while the active lead cases were reported at 70, plus 11 Communicable Disease cases. There were no Influenza A case, 3 animal bites were report, and there were 9 screenings for sexually transmitted infections, resulting in 34 total tests. The September environmental report showed there where 12 total inspections or re-inspections conducted. The Maternal-Child Health (MCH) statistics showed there were no car seats distributed, there were two Show-Me Healthy Women appointments, 2 CPR Courses, no consultations for Childcare Health, and there were 13 Title X appointments were reported. There were no Presumptive Eligibility (Temporary Medicaid), while there were 361 WIC appointments. The Community-Specific Services Summary showed 589 total appointments other than WIC, 146 total provider appointments, 212 treatment court visits, 177 lab appointments and 90 immunization appointments. Nurse Practitioner Service Details showed 2 Show-Me Healthy Women appointment, 4 family plannings, 4 well-child visits, 2 other well-woman exams, 13 other physicals, 6 SEMO physicals, plus 57 other visits, and 58 acute illness appointments for a total of 115 visits. Laboratory details showed 177 Lab Draws, 15 appointments for Rapid Test for COVID, Flu, RSV or Strep, 3 pregnancy tests, 8 lead tests were reported, plus 17 other urine drug screenings. Phlebotomy Appointments
totaled 151, while all Lab Appointments totaling 177. Immunizations for September showed 23 for COVID-19 and 38 for Influenza, plus 74 other vaccines given during 90 appointments. In the Administrator’s report, Moser reported on the success of the October 2nd Drive Through Vaccine Clinic at the Fire Station and thanked the DCFPD for the use of their facility. He said 95 patients were vaccinated and all COVID vaccines in stock were used during the event. Moser did say that COVID vaccine is back in stock. He said staff would be arriving very early Friday morning the 17th for the Fall Health Fair. Moser reported on the launch of CareCab transportation program which provided 61 rides in September and is expected to grow quickly. He discussed the financial delays from the state of Missouri due to their process changes after their new Fiscal year, and the impact of the Federal Government Shutdown if it continues. Moser also reported on a visit by State Senator Justin Brown, Ashley Kuykendall from Beacon Reproductive Health, and Jack Seigal from Missouri Nurses Association to discuss the challenges of rural healthcare and public health. The financial reports for September were reviewed and approved by the board. The Board entered closed session at 6:00 to discuss personnel. At 8:09 the Board returned to open session having discussed personnel issues, but taking no disclosable votes, other than setting a special meeting for November 27th at 5:00 pm. In new business Zach requested guidance on the Bank of Salem CD expiring October 18th for 

approximately $207,000.00. A motion was made and carried to renew the CD with the Bank of Salem. An employee application for tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment was evaluated for $8,000. A motion was made and carried to approve the $8,000 reimbursement and loan repayment. Moser asked for direction on developing the 2026 budget. The board agreed to have Board Treasurer Bob Gravely work directly with Moser to prepare a budget for approval at later meetings. Prior to adjournment the next regular meeting date was set for Thursday, November 20th, 2025, at 5:00.

The Scenic Rivers Industries Dent County Sheltered Workshop is hosting their first ever Haunted House today, tomorrow, and Saturday from 6:30 until 10:00. The haunted house theme will be  the “The Land of Misfit Toys” where visitors can prepare for an unforgettable journey through the shadows where “Misfit Toys” will lurking around every corner. The haunted house will be held at 1200 South Babb Lane in the building next to MFA; and the cost of admission is $7.00 for adults, $3.00 for children 11 years of age and under. Popcorn and beverages will be available to purchase at the event. If you have any questions, please call the workshop Monday through Thursday at 573-729-6264.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors met at 6:00 last Wednesday evening at the Fire Station at #2 South Main. The board approved the consent agenda, plus reviewed and approved the minutes from the previous meeting, then did the review of the financials, followed by the review and approval of bills, payments and statements. The budget was also reviewed and approved. The Monthly Reimbursement Report showed there were 26 calls for September and a total of 219 year-to-date. The calls in August included eight fire calls, two accident calls, one false alarm response, six medical calls, three calls categorized as other, and two canceled calls en route. In old business, the Fidelity (CTI) Tower Lease was again tabled. In new business relative to Firefighters Association of Missouri (FFAM), recruitment and retainment incentives information was presented by Director Stokes and the following motions were voted on and passed. Chief Floyd is to start the process for professional grant writing services for AFG grant with Fire House Grants. A Resolution for a Cooperation Agreement for the security investment of Public Funds with MOSIP. To join Firefighters Association of Missouri (FFAM). To join the National Volunteer Fire Council. Lieutenant Robbins presented bids for training room equipment and completion, which were approved for a total of $5,000.00. Captain Marffit presented information on the Junior FF program and the board voted to approve the implementation pending legal review. Director Knight presented quotes on Crib Units, Digital Fire Training Systems, and Extraction Kits. Chief Floyd presented quotes for new hose nozzles. A motion was made and passed to accept the bid from Sentinel for the new trucks and to replace nonfunctioning nozzles. Tire quotes were also presented for Truck 8020 and the bid from Mastertrack for $377.29 per tire was approved. Chief Floyd reported that the electric has been installed in the bay for the charging drops for the trucks. He said that the annual ladder tests have been completed and passed. Floyd reported that the training facility construction is coming along nicely. He also reported that Greg Thies and Scott Montoya will be attending instructor training school in November. The board went in to closed session to discuss competitive bidding. After returning to open session the meeting was adjourned at 9:43.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said materials would be added where needed and grading done on Dent County Roads 5220 and 5179 as well as some other roads in that area. He indicated brush would be cut on county road 5520, and a grader blade would be changed out on a grader. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported workers will be adding rock and grading on Dent County Roads 2360 while only grading will be done on county roads 2200, 2340 and 3120. Williams said men will be going to Springfield to get oil for chip and seal repair. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson reported that the county received the remonumentation agreement that will be pay the county surveyor $400 per corner by the Department of Agriculture. The county surveyor, Michelle Elwood, will rework eight corners and the reimbursement will be no more than $3,200. The commission signed the agreement. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported her office and the county treasurer’s office balanced on all accounts for the month of September. She also said the CART funds project for Dent County for 2026 is expected to $1,080,000 for 2025 based on 200 million dollars spent on gas and car purchases as well as increase in the CART tax rate due to the final fuel tax 2.5% increase in July of this year. Curley said she will be doing a voter registration today at the high school from 11:00 until 1:30 and then return Wednesday to the school for Kim Thompson’s Life Skills class. Curley reported the county’s Workman’s Comp premium for 2026 will be 11% lower than in 2025. At the last meeting, the commission also discussed the county’s health insurance renewal. The premium showed a 6.5% premium increase which was better than what was expected. The commission agreed to keep the deductible agreement that same as in previous years. The next meeting of the commission will be Thursday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

This week is School Bus Safety Week, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind motorists that school bus safety is an important part of driver etiquette. The Patrol encourages everyone to review these school bus safety tips. Parents, please remind your students to use proper school bus etiquette when being transported to and from school. Students should sit quietly in their seats and keep the aisle clear. They should never shout, throw objects, or stick anything out the window. Students should make note of where emergency exits are on the bus in case they need to use them. They should always listen to the school bus driver for instructions. When exiting the bus, always use the handrail and stay at least 10 feet in front of the bus when crossing a street. Motorists are reminded to be aware of all school zones and school bus stop signs. Bus drivers must activate the bus’s crossing control arm when loading or unloading students. MO law states that if motorists are meeting or following a stopped school bus on a two-lane road, drivers must stop. However, it is only necessary to stop on a four-lane highway when following the bus. Be extra cautious as some children may not be aware of traffic and step unexpectedly onto the roadway. Allow extra time during your commute during school hours. Drivers, students, and parents should remain patient and aware when school bus transportation is in use. Not only does this protect school children, but it will ensure your and other motorists’ safety as well. For more the, Missouri State Highway Patrol is on X @MSHPTrooperGHQ

MRPC Executive Director Bonnie Prigge, MRPC Planning Manager Anne Freund. MoDOT Central District Area Engineer Preston Kramer, the Dent County Commission, Zach Moser from the Dent County Health Department, Salem City Administrator Sally Burbridge and Salem Economic Development Director Carrie Sutterfield were in attendance to the Dent County Transportation Needs annual meeting held at the Dent County Courthouse Thursday. Kramer reported the “Standing Rock Bridge” in Gladden on Highway 19 has been completed and is now removed from the list. Kramer further added the bridge on Highway 32 East at Boss over the West Fork of the Huzzah Creek, the bridge on Highway 19 north over Spring Creek in Salem, and the Route B bridge over Dry Fork have all been added to the Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan for replacement in the next few years so these projects no longer have to be included to the priority list. The group discussed all the identified transportation needs from previous years, and one new item was added to the list. It was the Meramec River bridge on Route B. There was more discussion on the issues caused by the new entrance to McDonald’s on Highway 32-72 at Highway 19 where people heading eastbound are turning left into McDonald’s from the designated westbound left turn lane to go south on Highway 19. This was first identified last year after McDonald’s moved locations. The priorities determined from the meeting are still a new bridge on Route TT over Crooked Creek near Sligo and that work is currently being scoped by MoDOT engineers, the addition of a right turn lane heading north on Highway 19 South at the intersection of Roosevelt, shoulder and alignment issues on Route B, and new shoulders and safety improvements on Highway 119 to Montauk. If additional money becomes available for repairs, the high priority unfunded projects would be for safety improvements to be made at the intersection of Highway 19 and Franklin Street as well as the new McDonald’s entrance issues. The board also reviewed multi-modal needs such as the need for increase or availability of public transportation for everyone such as the services provided by the SMTS busses for the public as well as for non-medical needs after hours, adding sidewalks on the east side of Highway 19 from Center Street to Highway 32, adding sidewalks from Route J to Highway 72 north, and adding sidewalks from Carty Street to the Craig Industrial Drive on Highway 32 East (Scenic Rivers Blvd). Also discussed was adding crosswalks at Highway 32-72 and Babb Lane, crosswalks at Highway 32-72 at the Warfel/Doss Road intersection and adding crosswalks at Highway 19 at Center Street as well as Highway 19 at Franklin. There was discussion to possibly turn the Second Street bridge in the city that is currently closed into a pedestrian and/or bike bridge, but the city did not take action on that for this year’s budget, and to paint bike paths on the shoulders of Highway 32-72 east from the city limits to Highway 19 where it is wide enough. Prigge said the priority road information will be discussed when MRPC and other regional commissions get together with MoDOT to address transportation issues in December at the MRPC Transportation Advisory Committee meeting. She also said MRPC recognizes that not everyone could attend this meeting and if you have a priority road issue or multi-modal issue you would like to contribute, please call the MRPC offices at 573-265-2993. 

The Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) will be presenting eleven awards at its Annual Awards Dinner on October 23rd at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory. Each year, the MRPC honors residents and organizations of the Meramec Region who volunteer their time and talents and give support to their communities. Individuals being recognized by MRPC for Outstanding Contributions to a Community in the immediate Dent County area include Kelly Money of St. James, nominated by MRPC Board Member Taisia Gordon; and Dana Richter of Steelville, nominated by Crawford County Presiding Commissioner Steve Black. A locally elected official was also nominated and that is Dent County Clerk Angie Curley of Salem, nominated by Dent County Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson. Also being recognized as an Outstanding Local Agency Representative is Rolla City Administrator John Butz of Rolla, nominated by MRPC board members Kent Bagnall and Dawn Bell. The public is invited to attend the event in Salem. The 2025 Eugene E. Northern award, the highest honor given by MRPC for volunteers and community service, will also be announced at the Annual Dinner. The Eugene E. Northern award recipient remains a secret until announced at the Annual Dinner. Dent County is proud to have been home to the last two Eugene E. Northern award winners in Stan Podorski and Deloris Gray Wood. The deadline for reservations is October 9th. Reservations are $40 per person and can be made by contacting Linda Carroll: 573-265-2993.