Local News

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors will be holding its monthly meeting Tuesday night at 6:00 at 2 South Main Street. After the call to order and roll call, the board will consider the approval of the consent agenda, to contain the previous meeting’s minutes, financial report, bills, and budget review. Under old business, the board will discuss the CTI Tower Lease and revised bylaws. Under new business, the board will discuss insurance as proposed by representative Mary Martin of American Midwest Insurance. The board will then be presented the monthly reimbursement reports by Fire Chief Derek Thomas. The next meeting date will then be set, and the board will enter a closed session if necessary before adjournment. This meeting will be open to the public.

The Missouri Department of Transportation has released a list of general highway maintenance and construction work planned the week of June 8th to June 14th. Motorists should travel with care and be alert for slow-moving equipment. For Dent County, the bridge over Dry Creek at Hwy. B remains closed with project completion scheduled for the end of July. Pedestrian facility upgrades continue in the city limits of Salem on Hwy. 19 and Hwy. 32. The project is expected to be completed in September. A resurfacing project spanning from Hwy. 63 in Texas County to Hwy. KK in Iron County is scheduled to begin today. Work will begin with signal work in the city of Salem with resurfacing scheduled to begin June 15. Paving work in Licking and Salem will take place at night, with all other work scheduled during daytime hours. A 10-foot width restriction is in place around-the-clock for the duration of the project, which is expected to be completed by mid-September. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zones.

MRPC and the Region I Homeland Security Oversight Committee are holding an abbreviated friends and family CPR class this Saturday at the MRPC office, #4 Industrial Drive, St. James. This class provides hands-on CPR training, practice with AEDs, an introduction to first aid and is meant to be an informative and relaxed environment for basic understanding of life-saving measures. The course does not offer certification and is approximately 60-90 minutes long. While registration is required, the class is offered free of charge. Samantha Sherman, senior community development specialist with MRPC, said that this is the perfect opportunity for individuals who may be watching children over the summer or community members who have a desire to assist when needed to get basic hands-on knowledge without going through a lengthy certification course. The hope is that this course provides enough knowledge to be beneficial to participants who find themselves in emergency situations that require immediate action. The course is being taught by Scott Proffitt, a certified instructor with Rolla Fire and Rescue. To register for the class, email or call Samatha Sherman with MRPC at ssherman@meramecregion.org or 573-265-2993, ext. 101. This training opportunity is funded through a grant provided by Region I Homeland Security Oversight Committee.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) has released that it has completed its 2026 annual school bus inspection. Over 11,000 school buses were successfully inspected in accordance to Missouri revised state statues. A total of 287 Missouri school districts earned the Patrol’s Total Fleet Excellence Award for 2026. Missouri’s 2026 school bus inspection results are as follows: School buses rated as “approved” upon initial inspection were 10,239; buses rated as “defective” were 849; and buses rated as “out-of-service” were 283. Buses with identified defective components require repair within 10 days. Buses placed out-of-service require correction of the component(s), reinspection, and a return to service by Patrol personnel prior to further usage in transporting passengers. According to the individual school district results for 2026, the Salem R-80 School District’s fleet of 10 buses received 90% approval from Highway Patrol Troop I, with only one bus receiving a defective rating; Oak-Hill R-I received a rating of 60% on their fleet of five buses; Green Forest R-II received a rating of 75% on their fleet of eight buses; Dent-Phelps R-III received an approval rating of 100% on their fleet of nine buses; and North Wood R-IV received an approval rating of 57.1% of their fleet of seven buses.

The Dent County Chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) is in need of more volunteers to assist with bed deliveries on the outskirts of Dent County. If you are someone willing and able to lend a hand, join SHP, an international non-profit that builds, assembles, and delivers new beds to children in need to ensure no child sleeps on the floor of our town. No experience is needed and training is provided. Just recently, over 40 people from Oak Grove Baptist Church, Gladden Baptist Church, and New Home Baptist Church joined together to build beds for children in need. For more information, contact Patti McKeown at patti.mckeown@shpbeds.org or call the Dent County chapter at 1-844-432-2337. Updates can also be found at facebook.com/shpdentco. 

The Salem Heritage Sign has officially returned to its original placement after being removed for restoration work from both the City of Salem Electric Department and Construction Department. Department crew members have worked hard to restore the sign’s lighting, concrete slab, and painted lettering. The sign was originally placed in the City of Salem Roadside Park in 1957 by the State Historical Society of Missouri and State Highway Commission, telling a brief history of Salem.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse for its regular meeting. Not in attendance was Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley appointed Second District Commissioner Jimmy Williams as Acting Presiding Commissioner. Under road reports, First District Commissioner Keith Green reported that crew members are hauling rock to and grading county roads 6220 and 6240. Ditchwork is being completed on county roads 4110 and 4120 to prepare for chipseal resurfacing. Pothole patching is also to be done today. In the second district, Williams reported that crew members are spreading asphalt and patching chipseal roads to prepare for resurfacing, including county roads 2250, 3233, 3230, 3220, and 3290. Hauling and spreading rock will be done on county roads 5260 and 5325. A tree will be removed from County Road 3355. Meanwhile, Curley reported that she has balanced with the collector and assessor on all monthly collections, abatements, and add-ons for the month of May. Bills are to be approved. Businesses are reminded that if they have a liquor license, those are due by June 30th. The first day to start absentee voting is June 23rd for the Aug. 4th Primary Election. Under public comments, commissioners heard from several residents advocating against Flock cameras and its Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) systems currently in use by the Dent County Sheriff’s Office. Resident Denver Ellis provided commissioners a proposal for a privacy and surveillance ordinance, modeled off an ordinance adopted by Camden County Commission, alongside a proposal for a ballot question to discontinue the county’s participation in the ALPR system. Sargent Lenny Pabbin with the Sheriff’s Office discussed the system with the residents, clarifying that the cameras document passing vehicles but lose the information after 30 days; the cameras do not track speed; and it does not have facial recognition software. Pabbin further clarified the system has only been in use for three weeks. Residents disagreed with the continued use of the system, citing privacy concerns. Ellis also asked commissioners if the proposed ordinance against data centers has been considered, to which commissioners claimed it cannot be enforced if put in place due to a lack of zoning laws. A resident asked regarding the progress being made on the slab crossing on County Road 4210. This is a FEMA bridge awaiting engineering plans. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will take place at 9:00 in the morning Monday, June 8th at the courthouse and is open to the public.

For free fun for the family, Missouri Department of Conservation has Free Fishing Days coming up statewide the weekend of June 6th and June 7th. During Free Fishing Days, anyone may fish in Missouri without having to buy a fishing permit, trout permit, or trout park daily tag. This is an annual event which takes place statewide during the Saturday and Sunday following the first Monday in June. Other fishing regulations remain in effect, such as limits on size and number of fish an angler may keep. If you’re new to fishing or don’t have fishing gear, consider taking advantage of the Salem Public Library’s Rod & Reel Loaner Program. Through the Rod & Reel Loaner Program, individuals of all ages may check out fishing poles and tackle boxes for free using their library cards. The fishing poles are equipped with standard spin-cast reels. The tackle boxes are supplied with hooks, sinkers, and bobbers for basic fishing opportunities. Individuals need to provide their own live bait or desired lures to bait the hook. Equipment checks out for three days. It’s important to note that fishing rods and tackle boxes need to be returned to the circulation desk, not the book depository, and that items may not be renewed and are subject to overdue fines. For more information on the Rod & Reel Loaner program, contact the Salem Public Library at 573-729-4331.

Join Salem Public Library this Saturday from 10:30 in the morning to 1:00 in the afternoon for a meet the author and book signing event with local author Sarah Mason of “Riding the Line,” “Hell of a Ride,” and “Caught in the Crossfire.” This program is intended for adults. No fee or library card is required to attend.

The Salem Community Center @ the Armory will be hosting the Dueling Pianos on Aug. 7th. Dueling Pianos is a musical showdown where two pianists take audience requests and turn them into a live performance. These musicians are based out of areas all across the United States, including New York, Kansas City, St. Louis, and more. Doors will be opening early evening at 5:30 with the performance to begin at 6:30 and going until 9:30. Concessions and a cash bar will be available. Individual tickets will be $25 and a VIP table of six will be $250. Tickets are available @ the Armory. Visit flyingivories.com or facebook.com/flyingivories to learn more about the performers. For questions on the event, please contact 573-729-8163 or Jackie@SalemCommunityCenter.org.

The Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, or “STIP,” lists transportation projects planned by state and regional planning agencies and reflects the transportation needs of communities across the state, from high-volume interstate construction projects to low-volume routes in rural areas. The draft FY 2027-2031 STIP was presented to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (MHTC) at an open meeting, allowing for a 30-day public review and comment period on the proposal. This draft STIP makes available $13 billion of federal and state revenues for all modes of transportation over the next five years and details $9.3 billion in road and bridge construction contractor awards, averaging approximately $1.9 billion per year. In Dent County specifically, proposed highway and bridge construction projects include bridge rehabilitation over Spring Creek; repair slide 0.3 mile south of County Road 4050; bridge replacement over Huzzah Creek; bridge improvement over Dry Creek; scour repair and bridge painting at Dry Branch; bridge improvement over Crooked Creek; bridge improvements over Dry Fork Creek and Barnitz Prong Dry Creek and on Hwy. 32 over Dry Fork Creek and Pigeon Creek. There are also a few pavement resurfacing projects proposed, including from Hwy. 72 to Hwy. 32. Scoping for bridge improvements over Dry Fork of Meramec River is also among the proposed projects for Dent County. You can review the proposed STIP in full and comment at the website modot.org/DRAFTSTIP. Those interested in seeing the program or offering comments can also contact MoDOT by email at STIPcomments@modot.mo.gov; by calling customer service at 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636); or by mailing Transportation Planning, Program Comments, P.O. Box 270, Jefferson City, MO 65102. The formal comment period ends tomorrow, June 5th. A summary of comments will then be presented to MHTC. After review, the proposal will be considered for approval at the July 1st MHTC meeting. 

If you are planning a holiday weekend of cleaning out the basement or garage, be sure to designate items for the annual special waste collection event in Rolla coming up on June 13th. The annual collection will be from 8:00 in the morning to noon at the Brewer Science, Inc. parking lot located at 2401 Brewer Drive, Rolla. The collection is for residential items only – no materials from businesses will be accepted. Stoves, washers, dryers, hot water heaters, and other appliances will be collected free of charge. Free electronics also include computer components, laptop computers, keyboards, VCR/DVD players, cell phones, hair dryers, power tools or anything that runs on a cord or battery. Please note the following items will NOT be accepted: transformers, capacitors or ballasts not clearly marked “No PCBs”; smoke detectors; thermostats; medical waste; gas containers such as propane, oxygen, nitrous oxide; anything leaking oil or acid, such as batteries; broken ink or toner cartridges; alkaline batteries; broken CRT TVs or monitors. Fees on certain items will be collected including $25 for CRT TVs over 27 inches and wood console TVs; $20 for CRT TVs under 26 inches; $15 for flat screen TVs; $10 for all computer monitors and refrigerated appliances with Freon; and $5 for printers, scanners or copiers. Fees for tires are $3 each for passenger tires; $7.50 each for semi-truck tires; and $35 each for tractor tires. For more information on items accepted or the fee structure, please contact Jill Hollowell at MRPC at 573-265-2993 Ext. 109 or at jhollowell@meramecregion.org. 

Interested in learning how to safely preserve your favorite food at home? Join a hands-on Water Bath Canning Workshop on Thursday, June 18th from 6:00 to 9:00 in the evening at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory. Whether you’re brand new to canning or want a refresher on safe water bath canning techniques, this workshop will guide you step-by-step through the process. The cost is $25 per participant, and registration is required. Feel empowered and prepared as you learn techniques for safely canning high-acid foods, using equipment correctly, and following tested recipes. Build skills that protect your health, reduce food waste, and help you preserve nutritious foods for your family year-round. To register, visit MU Extension’s website at extension.missouri.edu and search “Water Bath Canning Workshop.” A registration link will be available at the first result.

The City of Salem’s Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrades are ongoing, with the city notifying residents on the west side of town they may notice a stronger than normal odor over the next month as work continues. As part of construction, the contractor will be temporarily transferring liquids from the oxidation basin to the temporary storm overflow area while improvements are made to the oxidation ditch. During this process, treatment plant staff and on-site contractors will do everything possible to help reduce odors; however, odors may remain above normal levels until work on the oxidation ditch is completed, materials are transferred back, and the new upgrades are fully operational. The odors may be unpleasant, but the city encourages and appreciates the community’s patience and understanding as the important infrastructure improvement project moves forward.

Our community has always shown up when people need it most, and now it’s time to rally around Zach Moser and his family. “We’ve Got Your Back, Zach” will be held Friday, June 19th from 5:00 to 9:00 in the evening at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory and will include an auction, dessert auction, concessions, T-shirts, and community support for a family facing an incredibly difficult battle with Stage 4 Sarcoma. Organizers are currently seeking auction item donations, dessert donations, monetary sponsorships for food and t-shirts, and businesses or individuals willing to support the event in any way. No donation is too small. If you would like to donate or help support this fundraiser, please contact Susie Cahill at susie@salemcommunitycenter.org. Items can be dropped off at the community center Monday through Friday from 8:00 in the morning to 4:00 in the afternoon with desserts being dropped off Friday, June 19th. In addition to auctions, organizers will also be holding a pickleball tournament on Saturday, June 20th beginning at 10:30 in the morning. Registration will be $25 per player. A competitive 3v3 basketball tournament will be held Saturday, June 27th, with registration at $60 per team. All proceeds from the fundraisers will help Zach and his family with treatment expenses, travel, and daily living costs as he continues his fight against cancer. For more information about these fundraisers, please call 573-739-1127 or email Susie@SalemCommunityCenter.org.

The August 4th Primary Election is just around the corner, so it’s important to keep in mind some key facts and upcoming deadlines. Not only will the primary election allow each political party to determine its nominee for the general election in November, but it will also contain four constitutional amendments. The last day to register to vote for the Primary Election is July 8th. Absentee voting at the Dent County Clerk’s Office will begin June 23rd and continue through August 3rd. No excuse absentee voting will begin July 21st. To stay up to date on upcoming deadlines and voting information, be sure to follow the Dent County Elections Facebook page by searching Facebook for “Dent County Elections/County Clerk-Angie Curley.” For more information, visit the Missouri Secretary of State website at sos.mo.gov/elections/goVoteMissouri.

Four constitutional amendments will be seen on the August 4th Primary Election ballot following signed proclamations from Governor Mike Kehoe. All ballot measures, if certified, will be on the November general election ballot. Amendment 1 – If approved by the voters, continues for 10 years the one-tenth of one percent sales/use tax that is used for soil and water conservation and for state parks and historic sites. Amendment 2 – if approved by voters, requires that all charter counties, including Jackson County, elect a county assessor and that such assessors comply with training requirements established by state law. Amendment 4 – if approved by voters, modifies current requirements that a simple statewide majority of voters may approve initiative petitions to amend the constitution, requires a majority of voters in each congressional district to approve initiative petitions to amend the constitution, and makes available to each voter the full text of initiative petitions with their ballot. Amendment 5 – if approved by voters, requires the phase out and elimination of the individual income tax based on revenue growth, requires the reduction of property taxes and other local taxes to offset any local sales tax revenue increases, while preserving local funding for public schools.

ServMO, a nonpartisan State Commission approved by AmeriCorps and consisting of 15-25 members appointed by the governor, will soon be accepting applications for the America 250 Missouri Mini-Grant opportunity in celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary. Organizations are invited to submit applications in support of meaningful, community-driven service projects in the month of September 2026. Mini-grants of up to $3,000 will be available to fund projects taking place on or around 9/11 Day of Service and/or Missouri Good Neighbor Week, September 28th through October 4th, 2026. The application cycle for the grant opportunity is now through June 19th, 2026. More information, including the application form and guidelines for all interested parties, are now available at serv.mo.gov/grant-opportunities.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse for its regular meeting. First District Commissioner Keith Green reported that crew members would be out grading and hauling rock where needed on county roads 6190, 6230, and 2400. County Road 4110 will be prepared for resurfacing. The Mantis brushcutter will be receiving maintenance. Under public comments, commissioners heard from a resident of County Road 6190, who requested work done due to recent washouts. Additionally, the resident notified Green that there is a culvert in need of replacement on that road, alongside a speed limit sign. Green shared that crew members are aware of the issue but are attempting to catch up on the detour routes traffic are taking due to the closure of the bridge on Hwy. B and Yancy Mills on Hwy. 63. Second District Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported that crew members will be out grading on county roads 4290, 2590, 2513, 2600, and 2160. Crew members will be cutting brush on County Road 2330 and hauling rock on county roads 2590 and 2160. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson reported that he will be attending a Meramec Community Enhancement Corporation (MCEC) meeting in St. James on Wednesday. Larson further shared he will be stepping down from his position as chairman on that board but remain as a regular member. Finally, Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported that bills and payroll are to be approved. She further reported she attended the Missouri Election spring conference last week where officials heard legislative updates. Additionally, Curley participated in the Show-Me Certification program, a training for Missouri local election officials provided through the Missouri Association of County Clerks. Absentee voting for the Aug. 4th Primary Election will begin on June 23rd. Bids were opened on culverts, with the following received: Consolidated Pipe and Supply, Co. for $31,764.60; Metal Culverts for $39,582.05; Viebrock Sales and Service for $32,442.60; and Roberts Judson Lumber Co. for $36,329.88. Commissioners accepted the bid from Consolidated Pipe and Supply Co. for $31,764.60. Great Rivers Engineering (GRE) called later during the meeting and reported that one bid was submitted on the TAP project for the sidewalks of the courthouse. GRE will be rejecting the bid and will be rebidding the project due to the amount being double the budgeted amount. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will take place at 9:00 in the morning Thursday, June 4th at the courthouse and is open to the public.

The Dent County Health Center Board of Trustees held its regular meeting on May 21st. The minutes of the April meeting were presented and approved. Within the Administrator’s Report, Health Center Administrator Zach Moser reported that the Inaugural Gala revenue was $10,333 and expenses were $5,433.94, and that the Spring Health Fair had 54 participants. Moser further discussed with the board options to improve continuity in the event of his absence. The board received the operations report. In communicable disease, there have been seven CD cases, 49 STI tests, eight influenza cases, and four animal bites. There were 59 active lead cases and eight total inspections. Under immunizations, there was one influenza vaccine, 40 other vaccines, and 19 total appointments. For community-specific services, all laboratory appointments totalled 157; all appointments other than WIC was 562; all provider appointments was 133; all immunization appointments was 19; and CareCab rides totalled 347. Meanwhile, the financial reports for March were reviewed and approved. In closed session, the board approved a workplace accommodation for an employee. The next meeting will be held June 18th at 5:00 at the DCHC.

After applying and receiving grant funds from CoBank and Sho-Me Power Electric Cooperative, Intercounty Electric Cooperative Association (IECA) chose two groups to donate the funds to: local sheltered workshops and local CASA chapters. Local CASA chapters that assist children in the service territory of Intercounty include CASA of South Central Missouri, Mid-Ozark CASA, and 37th CASA. Each CASA chapter received $7,000 to assist in their efforts to support local kids. Local sheltered workshops include Scenic Rivers Industries, Inc.; Opportunity Sheltered Industries, Inc.; Unique Services, Inc.; Phelps County Industrial Solutions; and Choices for People. Each of the workshops received a check for $3,500.

With school out for the summer, a free summer feeding program through Opaa! Food Management Inc. will be available to keep the community’s kids stay fueled, healthy, and happy. If you have children aged 18 or younger living in Dent County or the surrounding area, you can pre-order a bag packed with five days worth of nutritious breakfast and lunch options. You can pick-up at the Salem R-80 High School on Mondays starting June 8th through July 31st from 4:00 to 6:00 in the evening. For more information, please call Chasity at 573-201-1516.

The Missouri Department of Conservation will be offering a virtual program on squirrel hunting basics from 6:00 to 9:00 in the evening Tuesday, June 9th. This virtual program will provide participants with a basic understanding of squirrel biology and behavior, an overview of squirrel hunting regulations and seasons, information on how to locate places to squirrel hunt, a breakdown of required equipment and hunting strategies, instruction on how to clean and prepare harvested squirrels, and next steps for new hunters who want to further their knowledge or explore hunting opportunities. To register, visit mdc.gov/events and search “Squirrel hunting.”

The Dent County Chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace will be holding its monthly Community Meeting today from 5:30 to 6:30 in the evening at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory in the Walden Room. SHP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that builds, assembles and delivers new, free beds to children in need in our community, ages 3-17. The Dent County Chapter is looking for additional volunteers to assist with bed deliveries across Dent County. If you are interested in more information, please contact Dent County Chapter President Patti McKeown through email at patti.mckeown@shpbeds.org or call the Dent County SHP Chapter at 1-(844)-432-2337.

The Dent-Phelps R-3 Board of Education met Thursday, May 21st in the conference room. After the call to order and approval of the agenda and consent agenda, containing bills, open session minutes, and the May financial report, the board discussed bids received for HVAC preventative maintenance for the 2026-27 school year, approving the bid from Brown Heating & Cooling, Inc. at the cost of $925. The board also approved soliciting bids for milk and propane for the 2026-27 school year. On the petty cash account, the board approved removing Victoria Brooker and Denny Melvin as authorized signers and approving Superintendent Karla Tiefenthaler. The board approved the Dent-Phelps R-3 Literacy Plan Revision and Comprehensive Needs Assessment as presented. After moving into closed session, the board approved the hiring of two teachers, Ashley Patterson and Audrey Ray, and one bus driver, Kermit Lonning. The board returned to open session and then adjourned. The next board meeting will take place at 6:00 in the evening Tuesday, June 23rd.

The Department of Public Safety has awarded a total of $1.455 million to 108 fire departments across the state to bolster the firefighting capabilities of small volunteer departments that provide critical protection to their rural communities. The Missouri Volunteer Fire Department Grant provided up to $15,000 for the purchase of equipment to small volunteer departments with annual operating budgets of $50,000 or less, where resources for essential firefighting equipment can be strained. The most requested items were firefighter turnout gear, extrication equipment, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and interoperable radios and repeaters for communication. There was also strong demand for basic supplies like hoses, nozzles, power tools and saws. DPS announced the first-ever Missouri Volunteer Fire Department Grant in October 2025. There was a 5% local cash match, which means for equipment costing $15,789.47, the local match share would be $789.47 and the state share of 95% would be $15,000. The performance period of the grant ended May 15, 2026. Missouri Volunteer Fire Department Grant Recipients in our area included the Ironton Fire Department, Jadwin Volunteer Fire Department, Licking Rural Fire Department, Montauk Rural Fire Department, and the Timber Community Fire Protection District. 

The removal of a crashed vehicle from the roadside of Missouri Route 32 east of Salem will require a 12-hour roadway closure on June 8th and June 9th. To minimize impacts to traffic using this route as a detour for the closure of Dent County Route B and the narrowing of U.S. Route 63 south of Rolla, the closure is planned during the overnight hours June 8th through June 9th. Beginning as early as 7:00 in the evening on June 8th, the towing company, working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, will close Route 32 between Route 72 south and County Road 4350. A signed detour will not be in place, but motorists should use Routes 72, A and 19 to navigate around the closure. The roadway is expected to reopen by 7:00 in the morning on June 9th.  Due to the amount of equipment and effort involved in removing this oversized, heavy vehicle from the roadside, that timing may change. All work is weather permitting, and schedules are subject to change. 

The City of Salem Parks and Recreation Department announced that Water Aerobics will begin today. This is a low-impact, high-energy exercise that welcomes all to build strength, boost cardio, and improve flexibility without stressing joints. This exercise is great for all ages and fitness levels. Water Aerobics will take place weekdays at the Alice Lou Craig Municipal Swimming Pool from 10:30 to 11:30 in the morning. From June 8th through June 19th and July 6th through July 17th, the hours will be 9:30 to 10:30 in the morning. Costs are $5 per class or a $60 monthly pass can be purchased. Contact the pool for any questions or more information at 573-729-6228. Open pool hours are Monday through Saturday noon to 6:00 and Sunday from 1:00 to 6:00.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse for its regular meeting. Under road reports, District One Commissioner Keith Green reported that crew members would be out grading county roads 5090 and 5220. A pipe will be installed on County Road 4110. Crew members will also be preparing chipseal roads for most of the coming week for resurfacing. Green also stressed for residents to have patience, as County Road 5220 is receiving higher usage due to the bridge closure on Route B and trucks utilizing it as a detour. Crew members are aware of the issue and will keep an eye on the road and provide maintenance when able. District Two Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported that crew members will be out hauling rock and grading county roads 2120, 2150, 2155, 4260, and 4270. In addition, crew members have performed maintenance around the area of Anutt. Williams further reported that both district commissioners visited MoDOT recently to request maintenance on the approaches on county roads. Deputy County Clerk Melissa Piatt reported that the County Clerk’s office is preparing for the August 4th Primary Election. Meanwhile, Danny Brown and Rob Pulliam visited the commission on possible grant opportunities for low-water crossings around Dent County. Pulliam, a representative for a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization called The Nature Conservancy (TNC), encouraged the commissioners to send a list of high priority crossings which have caused issues in the past for the county. According to Pulliam, TNC can assist with funding for low-water crossings and some culvert bridges which pose significant barriers to the movement of fish and other wildlife, have high maintenance costs, and are hazards for folks during high-water events. One example Pulliam provided was a project on Willhite Road in Crawford County, which now allows fish and other species to pass through freely. In order to be eligible, low-water crossings need to be over moving water and open miles of river. To learn more about TNC and its efforts in Missouri, visit its website at nature.org and search “Protecting and Restoring Missouri’s Rivers.” Commissioners will be in contact with Pulliam in the future and send him a priority list of possibly eligible crossings. The next meeting will be 9:00 in the morning next Monday at the courthouse, and the meeting is open to the public.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen met Tuesday night for its regular meeting. Under new and miscellaneous business, the board approved an auction seller agreement with J.J. Kane Associates, Inc. and J.J. Kane Exchange, LLC. for the sale of city property by public auction, a switch from Purple Wave with a hope of better returns. The board also approved the annual renewal of health insurance through United Healthcare for city employees. The board approved the final request for reimbursement for the six unit T-Hangars project, which will be reimbursed at a total of $3,409 from MoDOT. The board approved the purchase of aviation fuel for the airport, not to exceed a total expense of $9,775. The board discussed joining a consortium alongside Dent County Health Center (DCHC) and Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC), in order to apply for the Delta Health Care Service Program Grant for Workforce Development. The program is for funding for those entering the healthcare field. DCHC will be the administrator for the grant, with management of the program to be completed by either Salem Memorial Hospital or DCHC. It was explained by the grant writer the city would inhabit an advisory role to include offering feedback on program development, assisting in choosing scholarship applicants, and providing workforce statistics. The board approved joining the consortium. Under bids, the board approved the purchase of 15 total transformers at a cost of $14,475, to come out of the electric department’s line replacement fund. A second reading was heard of two ordinances amending the City of Salem codes related to backflow prevention devices and their annual inspections. The board approved both ordinances. Meanwhile, a first reading was heard amending water rates for Fiscal Year 2027 from $8.00 to $10.00 base rate and $7.50 to $9.28 per 1,000 gallons of use. No vote was held. Mayor Greg Parker reported that the annual spring clean-up is complete with 171 tons collected. Financial Director Stacey Houston stated that the total sales tax revenues collected for FY 2026, through April, was $4,074,748; this is up 2.7% from prior year. Fund balances for FY 2026 through April was a total of $17,099,822. The city has brought in 69% of the budgeted amount and has spent 62% of the budgeted amount. Both are less than anticipated 10 months into the budget year, due to grant revenues and expenses coming in lower than anticipated. Public Works Director Steve Paine reported that as the wastewater treatment plant moves into Phase 2A, remediation concrete work and new rotors will be completed within the next 30 days. This work will provide better oxidation; however, there will be a stronger scent to the treatment plant during the work. The electric department is out of street lights until the next order arrives. The department removed and restored the Salem Heritage sign, which needed lighting and frame repair. Construction crew members poured a new pad for the Salem Heritage sign. Alderwoman Catherine Dent reported that the Community Involvement Committee met at the fountain area at the junction of Hwy. 32/72 to complete yard work and prepare for planting. The board then adjourned. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Aldermen will be June 9th and will be open to the public.

The Dent County Chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace will be holding its monthly Community Meeting Monday, June 1st, 5:30 – 6:30 in the evening at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory in the Walden Room. SHP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that builds, assembles and delivers free beds to children in need in our community.

In Wednesday’s Your World Today, we erroneously reported that the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center exhibit of the Civilian Conservation Corps artifacts would be closing at the end of May. They have extended that exhibit now until the end of July. We apologize for the error.

If you haven’t visited the Ozark Natural Cultural Resource Center’s historical display of Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) artifacts, you now have more time. The ONCRC will have the CCC display open until the end of July. The ONCRC is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 in the morning to 5:00 in the evening. The Indian Trail State Park will be celebrating its 100-year anniversary later this year, and the Civilian Conservation Crews were based at the area from 1933 to 1946, building most of the area’s 55 miles of access roads, constructing the pond, and planting pine trees in many of the open areas. This Saturday morning at 10:00, Jason Stotler will present a “Walk and Learn” program at the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center. Attendees will learn about the Civilian Conservation Corp artifacts on display and hear stories about those who worked to develop Indian Trail Park as well as other parts of our area. The program is free and open to the public. 

The Shannon County Sheriff’s Office has released that on Monday, May 25th, dispatch received a call from an individual who stated that a neighbor had physically assaulted him. Deputies responded and made contact with the alleged victim. The victim advised deputies his neighbor had assaulted him, causing significant bodily injury. The victim further stated the suspect had threatened to kill law enforcement officers if they responded to the scene. Due to the nature of the call and the threats made toward law enforcement, deputies requested assistance from the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Deputies staged near the location of the alleged altercation until additional units arrived. Once deputies and a trooper arrived at the residence, they observed a male subject standing outside. Upon seeing law enforcement, the male ran inside the residence and shut the doors and windows to the residence. The male then began yelling he had explosives and that he would kill law enforcement officers. Shortly thereafter, the male pointed a rifle at a deputy. The deputy fired twice, striking the subject. Emergency Medical Services were immediately requested, and medical aid was rendered at the scene. The subject was later transported to an area hospital for treatment of his injuries. During a subsequent search of the residence, officers located four children and an adult female inside. Investigators also determined the male subject had an active felony warrant from Tennessee for Aggravated Assault. The adult female was found to have an active felony warrant from Tennessee for Aggravated Burglary. Members of the Shannon County Sheriff’s Office contacted the Department of Social Services (DSS) and requested them to respond to the scene. DSS representatives took the children into protective custody. A Shannon County Sheriff’s Office Chaplin was also contacted and responded to the scene to provide support. There is no known threat to the community. The officer-involved shooting is being investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Division of Drug and Crime Control. This is an active investigation, and further details can’t be released at this time.

The Dent County Health Center, in cooperation with the Dent County Extension and Salem Community Garden, will provide handwashing education at the Community Garden behind the Salem Methodist Church this evening at 6:00. They will share important public health information concerning lead dust awareness in the soil, safe gardening practices, and the importance of handwashing. The session will focus on the importance of removing any possibility of having lead dust being ingested by citizens by washing hands and fresh produce after gardening or working in their own soil. This education is free and open to everyone. For more information on why this is so important, listen to the KSMO Interview from May 15th with Master Gardener Thom Haines and Emily Marshall, Dent County Health Center’s Grants and Strategic Initiatives Coordinator, which is available on the KSMO Facebook Page and the KSMO YouTube Page.  The Dent County Health Center, in cooperation with the Dent County Extension and Salem Community Garden, will provide handwashing education at the Community Garden behind the Salem Methodist Church this evening at 6:00. They will share important public health information concerning lead dust awareness in the soil, safe gardening practices, and the importance of handwashing. The session will focus on the importance of removing any possibility of having lead dust being ingested by citizens by washing hands and fresh produce after gardening or working in their own soil. This education is free and open to everyone. For more information on why this is so important, listen to the KSMO Interview from May 15th with Master Gardener Thom Haines and Emily Marshall, Dent County Health Center’s Grants and Strategic Initiatives Coordinator, which is available on the KSMO Facebook Page and the KSMO YouTube Page. 

An accident occurred in Dent County Friday afternoon at approximately 2:40 on Highway FF in the 900 Block. According to the Highway Patrol report a westbound 2012 Jeep Wrangler, driven by a 52-year-old Salem woman, traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck an embankment, and overturned. The woman suffered moderate injuries and was transported by Salem EMS to Salem Memorial Hospital. The report stated that the lady was wearing a safety restraint. The Jeep sustained moderate damage and was left at the scene.

Colonel Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, provides the following preliminary statistics related to the Memorial Day holiday. Eight people died and 99 were injured in 234 traffic crashes during the 2026 Memorial Day holiday counting period, which began at 6:00 Friday evening, May 22, 2026, and ended at 11:59 Monday night, May 25, 2026. The holiday traffic statistics included 234 traffic crashes, 99 traffic crash injuries, 8 crash fatalities, and 107 DWI’s. Boating statistics 4 crashes resulting in 6 injuries. There were no fatalities or drownings, while there were 7 BWI’s. During the 2025 Memorial Day holiday counting period, the Patrol investigated 203 traffic crashes involving three fatalities and 92 injuries. Statewide, four people died and 356 were injured in 868 vehicle crashes in 2025. Three boating crashes were investigated throughout Missouri in 2025. Further details related to the traffic crashes and arrests can be found on the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s website. The fatality statistics in this news release could change if late deaths occur, or if other departments report fatal traffic crashes after this news release is sent to the media. 

The Salem Memorial Hospital has received notice of individuals going door-to-door claiming to raise funds on behalf of the hospital and requesting immediate payment. Please be aware the hospital is NOT conducting any door-to-door fundraising campaigns. The hospital encourages everyone to use caution and avoid providing cash, personal information, or payment details to anyone making these claims. If you have concerns or encounter suspicious activity, please contact local law enforcement.

Eagle-eyed residents may have noticed a new addition around the Dent County Fire Protection District (DCFPD) building. What some may think is a wrestling ring or a stage is actually a vertical ventilation roof prop, with the design, creation, and installation completed by Outlaw Fabrication. Built for training purposes, the prop is fully adjustable and will allow firefighters to train on a variety of roof pitches. The prop will allow firefighters to train to the highest standards in vertical ventilation techniques—skills that are critical to protecting lives and property across the district. The realistic, durable design ensures that crew members can practice safely, efficiently, and with the confidence needed when responding to real-world emergencies.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is accepting applications for the 127th Recruit Class. The Patrol is encouraging qualified individuals of all backgrounds to apply. Testing will be held in Jefferson City, MO. Those who successfully complete testing will move forward in a multi-phase selection process. This process is designed to identify individuals with discipline, grit, and commitment to becoming Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers. The 127th Recruit Class is scheduled to begin training on January 4, 2027. To be eligible, candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent and be 21 years of age upon graduating from the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy. Upon graduating from the Patrol’s Academy, troopers are eligible to earn credit hours through Mineral Area College, the University of Central Missouri, through Missouri State University, or through Southwest Baptist University. During the Academy, recruits may also be eligible to receive an associate of applied science degree at Mineral Area College by completing general education credit hours through online courses. The starting annual salary when entering the Academy is $66,432. Upon graduation, the salary increases to $73,824. Salary increases will occur after three years of service and additional salary increases may reach a maximum annual salary of $98,448 after 12 years of service. Other benefits include group health insurance, contributory retirement, career advancement, and more. The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s uniform guidelines allow troopers to have tattoos or brands as long as they meet requirements. The selection process is a multi-phase testing procedure including a written examination, a physical fitness for duty assessment, polygraph examination, background investigation, and an oral interview. After a conditional offer of employment, the applicant must successfully complete a medical examination, a psychological examination and interview, drug screening, and final applicant review. Successful applicants will be notified of their duty assignment prior to the start of the academy. Interested individuals can learn more about the qualifications by contacting a Patrol recruiter by calling 1-800-796-7000. Apply now at www.joinmshp.us.

If you haven’t visited the Ozark Natural Cultural Resource Center’s historical display of Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) artifacts, you now have more time. The ONCRC will have the CCC display open until the end of July. The ONCRC is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 in the morning to 5:00 in the evening. The Indian Trail State Park will be celebrating its 100 year anniversary later this year, and the Civilian Conservation Crews were based at the area from 1933 to 1946, building most of the area’s 55 miles of access roads, constructing the pond, and planting pine trees in many of the open areas.

Did you ever wonder if there was a recall on a piece of equipment you own or on a food product you may have purchased? The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission allows you to sign up and receive e-mails or texts on product recalls, safety education and more. It is absolutely free! Keep yourself up-to-date and sign up at cpsc.gov.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education held their regular meeting Wednesday night in the administration building located at 1409 West Rolla Road. After the call to order, the board approved the agenda and consent agenda. A communication was read by Superintendent Nathan Wills from Amanda Walker. Under the Superintendent’s Report, Wills updated board members regarding the 2026 Senior High and Kindergarten Graduations. A workshop outlining capital improvements, expenditures, and revenues for the 2026-2027 district budget was held, with the budget to be considered for approval at the June meeting. Under new business, the board conducted its yearly review of the building handbooks. The board unanimously approved the following: Proposed MSBA policy updates; An increase in substitute teacher pay for the 2026-2027 school year, increasing from $100 to $110 per day; The 2026-2027 Professional Development Plan; Renewal of the Developmental Preschool Lease Agreement; and the 2026 Salem R-80 District Wellness Plan, a tri-annual agenda item which illustrates a commitment to wellness for students and staff regarding mental health, exercise, and a healthy diet. Renewal of the Healthy Dent County Partnership, a contract in which the district provides $10,000 annually as sponsors, was also approved with a vote of 4-0-1, with board member Andrew Wynn abstaining. Building administrators and directors provided reports to board members. Under personnel changes, those hired included Allison McDonald, Kylie Smith, Heather Franklin, and Donna Smith. Those resigning or retiring included Lynn Mast and Crystal Strange. The board then adjourned and moved to executive session for the purpose of student and personnel issues. During closed session, the following votes were made: Approving qualified attendance appeals; Denying unqualified attendance appeals; and approving a Discovery School’s Contract. Also during closed session, the board approved the hiring of Rebecca Head, 3rd Grade Teacher; Sheradyn Kartchner as 2nd Grade Teacher; and Kristi Nakanishi as Kindergarten Teacher. Additionally, the board approved a stipend for Tiffanie McNamee as Process Coordinator for Early Childhood Special Education. The board then adjourned after returning to open session. The next meeting of the Salem R-80 Board of Education is scheduled for June 18th at 5:30 in the administration building and will be open to the public.

For free fun for the family, Missouri Department of Conservation has Free Fishing Days coming up statewide the weekend of June 6th and June 7th. During Free Fishing Days, anyone may fish in Missouri without having to buy a fishing permit, trout permit, or trout park daily tag. This is an annual event which takes place statewide during the Saturday and Sunday following the first Monday in June. Other fishing regulations remain in effect, such as limits on size and number of fish an angler may keep. If you’re new to fishing or don’t have fishing gear, consider taking advantage of the Salem Public Library’s Rod & Reel Loaner Program. Through the Rod & Reel Loaner Program, individuals of all ages may check out fishing poles and tackle boxes for free using their library cards. The fishing poles are equipped with standard spin-cast reels. The tackle boxes are supplied with hooks, sinkers, and bobbers for basic fishing opportunities. Individuals need to provide their own live bait or desired lures to bait the hook. Equipment checks out for three days. It’s important to note that fishing rods and tackle boxes need to be returned to the circulation desk, not the book depository, and that items may not be renewed and are subject to overdue fines. For more information on the Rod & Reel Loaner program, contact the Salem Public Library at 573-729-4331. 

Tickets to all Missouri State Fair concerts and events are on sale to the public, while supplies last. This includes all concerts and events in the State Fair Grandstand, presented by CFM Insurance, the Governor Michael L. Parson Arena, the Governor’s Ham Breakfast and $12 advance adult gate admission. These tickets will be available through Etix.com and by phone 1-800-514-ETIX/1-800-514-3849. This year’s fair will take place Aug. 13 through Aug. 23.