Local News

Everyone is invited out to the 3rd Annual “Kickoff to Summer” event this Saturday from 11:00 in the morning until 10:00 at night at the Salem City Park sponsored by the City of Salem and Council for a Healthy Dent County. This day will be jam packed with attractions including a dunk tank, face painting, and food trucks that will open at 11:00. Live music will be provided by Jake Conway and Heath Gaddy starting at 1:00 in the pool parking lot. If you have not been to the Salem City Park in over a year, you may be amazed at the changes that have been made. The kickoff will include a review of those improvements made to the park and the re-dedication of the Alice Lou Craig Municipal Swimming Pool beginning at about 11:45. There will be no admission costs to enter the pool on Saturday. Families are encouraged to attend and enjoy Billie’s Playground, the new splash pad, tennis court, skate park and basketball court. To end the night, the movie “Rio” will be the feature presentation starting at 8:30 at the pool and this is free! Cash is suggested to purchase your food during the event from the food trucks. Remember, parking is not going to be held at the pool parking lot. Those attending can park at the T-Ball fields, at the Salem Community Center@The Armory, the west parking lot behind the batting cages and on Park Street. Parking can also be done on the parking lot across the street from the Armory. Come and enjoy a fun-filled day with your family this Saturday in our beautiful, updated Salem City Park. If you need ADA access to the event, e-mail Tye Lydon at salemparks@salemmo.com or call 729-6290 to make arrangements.

The Dent County Health Center Board of Trustees met Monday, May 21st. Administrator Kendra Mobray reported that a proposed ordinance for joining the St. Louis County’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program was provided to Dent County Presiding Commissioner. Mobray said she is on the agenda for the Commissioner’s Meeting on Monday, June 4th to discuss the proposal. Mobray reported three new computers and a phlebotomy chair have been purchased with Missouri Foundation for Health funds and the remaining funds will be used for new waiting room toys. She also said outpatient lab services were provided to 28 clients in April. Mobray stated “Ready in 3” training was completed by all employees and the staff provided the “Ready in 3″ education at a US Foods event on April 28th. They are looking for additional opportunities to teach individuals and families how to be more prepared for a disaster. Mobray indicated lodging inspections began in May and will continue until completion. She went on to say two county residents with confirmed septic system violations have been forwarded to Andrew Curley, Prosecuting Attorney, due to non-compliance. Mobray reported that an additional $1000 was awarded to Child Care Health Consultation funding. Funds will be utilized to update training supplies and curriculum. Mobray did say that reports of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever were investigated in the month of May, along with an animal bite, one case of Legionellosis and one Salmonellosis. The next regular board of trustees meeting date was then set for Monday June 18th at 5:00 before the meeting was adjourned.

The Dent County Sheriff’s office has released some reports. On Sunday, May 20th, deputies responded to the 19000 block of Highway 32 East for a report of trespassing. After an investigation, a 49-year old Salem woman and a 25-year old Rolla woman were charged with trespassing and issued summons. On Monday, May 21st, deputies received a report of a stolen firearm from County Road 6240. The gun is described as a Marlin 30-30 with a stock. This report is still under investigation. Later that same day, deputies responded to the 43000 block of Highway 72 for a report of property damage. This was discovered that two windows were broken at the residence. This report is currently under investigation. On Thursday, May 24th, deputies traveled to a residence on County Road 6400 to make contact with a female with a warrant. The 40-year old Salem woman was arrested and taken to the Dent County Jail. On Friday, May 25th, deputies conducted a traffic stop on South Main Street in Salem. The driver, a 47-year old Salem woman, was arrested for driving while being intoxicated. She was fingerprinted, issued a summons, and released. On Saturday, May 26th, deputies responded to the 25000 block of Route C for a report of a burglary. It was reported that a chainsaw and hedge trimmer were stolen out of the garage. The chainsaw was a Stihl model MS180 with a 16” bar. This report is still under investigation. Later that same day, deputies received a report of a stolen firearm from the 5000 block of Route N. It is described as a black Smith and Wesson M&P shield with dark grey fingernail polish in the engravings. If anyone has any information about an ongoing investigation, please call the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors met for the regular meeting Tuesday, May 22nd at the hospital library. Chief Financial Officer Monica Stogsdill gave the summary of operations for April that showed a gain from operations of $41,519 with an excess of revenues over expenses of $53,130 for the month. In April, 75 patients were admitted to the hospital as acute care patients per day for April came in at 10.1. A large amount of swingbed patients occurred during April with 143 in-patient census days being reported. The cash flow statement showed a decrease in cash of $57,852 for the month with days in accounts receivable dropping to 60 due. Chief Nursing Officer Debbie Hines reported during the month there were 670 emergency room visits, 221 ambulance runs with 152 patients being transported to the hospital, 30 surgical procedures, 1,557 outpatient registrations, 334 home health visits, 7,133 lab tests, 1,038 radiological procedures and 650 rehab treatments. The days cash-on-hand for the hospital stands at 89 year-to-date and that continues to be way over the Critical Access Hospital state average of 65 for Critical Access Hospitals. Hospital Administrator Kasey Lucas gave a report on the “One America” Retirement after using it for one year. Lucas said 60% of all hospital employees use the program that has 32 different investment options. Contributions from April 1, 2017 through March 31, 2018 came in at $693,628. The hospital is currently looking at plan pricing on deposit activity. An employee meeting will be held late this summer to review. Chief Operating Officer Chris Strickland reported on the hospital foundation and the board voted to make it into a 501 C 3 non-profit entity that will give the hospital a chance to apply for grants they currently can not at this time. He also said there is still time to be a part of the Annual Foundation Golf Tournament to be held on June 8th at the Spring Creek Golf Club. He also said the sign in front of the hospital is going to be raised and include Family Medicine Clinic, Air Evac, the VA Clinic and Long Term Care. The Hospital Auxiliary met May 1st with nine members present and they will not meet again until September. The board approved Courtesy Staff privileges for Joseph Hime, MD; Scott Klenzak, MD; Dwayne Narayan, MD; George Northrup, MD; Gregory Renck, MD; and Anne-Mare Turnier, MD who are all tele-psych physicians. The board approved active staff privileges for Dr. Naser Almasalmeh, MD for the Emergency Department and as an Internal Medicine physician. The Finance Committee met and the board will review the budget before voting on it in June. The budget shows an increase in rates an average of about 4% across the board. They expect expenses to increase between 1 and 4% in salaries, 4% in the retirement plan, 4% in supply costs and 7.5% in drug costs. The capital budget was also reviewed for the upcoming fiscal year that includes capital purchases of Evident Clinical Module for information technology and software for home health for a total of $112,820, new fire doors for $25,000, an endoscopy for surgery for $50,000 and numerous other items that need replacing or updating. The hospital also has lease obligations that total $128,087 for the next fiscal year. The operating budget showed reductions in the expected in patient admissions of 1% and 2% in the Emergency Department. Total net operating revenue in the 2019 fiscal year is expected to be about $22,795,221 while the expected expenses at $22,665,432 that would leave an expected gain from operations of $129,789 and an excess of revenues after tax revenue at $609,789. The board approved the purchase of a specialized microscope for the Lab from Olympus for $10,246 to replace an old microscope, the purchase of food tray delivery carts for dietary for $3,617 from US Foods, and a new vital sign monitor for Long Term Care from Medline for $3,588. The board then went into closed session.

Nine people died in traffic crashes over the 2018 Memorial Day weekend. In 2017 nine people were killed during the three-day weekend. During the counting period, the Missouri State Highway Patrol investigated 294 traffic crashes which included 124 injuries and all eight fatalities. Troopers also arrested 121 people for driving while intoxicated and made 102 drug arrests. There were zero boating fatalities over the 2018 Memorial Day weekend. Marine operations troopers investigated 12 boating crashes involving 10 injuries. There were no drownings during the Memorial Day holiday. Marine troopers arrested 16 boaters for boating while intoxicated and made 29 drug arrests.

The Salem Parks and Recreation Department wants to remind everyone their Outdoor Adventure Camp will begin Monday morning at 8:00. This camp will feature all kinds of outdoor activities including archery, kayaking, crafts, geocaching and more. The cost is $6.00 per day, $25 per week or $150 for the whole camp that lasts until July 27th. For more information or to sign up, contact Tye Lydon at 729-6290.

An accident occurred Saturday afternoon at 5:54 in Crawford County on Highway 49 about 7/10ths of a mile from Sellers Road. According to the highway patrol report, a 2007 Harley Davidson, driven by 50-year old Carey Conaway of Salem, failed to negotiate a curve, ran off the right side of the roadway and impacted a ditch. Conaway suffered moderate injuries and was taken to the Missouri Baptist Hospital by Iron County EMS. The Harley sustained extensive damage and was towed by Blacky’s Towing.

The Salem Police Department has released a report. On Sunday, May 20th, at 8:19 in the evening a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. An investigation of the stop led to the arrest of an 18 year-old female of Rolla for possession of Cocaine. The suspect was released pending a warrant application. At 2:08 p.m. on Monday, May 21st, an officer transported a 25 year-old male of Salem, from the St. Francis County Jail to the Dent County Jail due to an active arrest warrant from the city of Salem. Later that same evening at approximately 9:32 a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 33-year-old male of Salem for driving while revoked. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. At approximately 11:48 that night an officer was dispatched to the Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health Center located on Grand Street and Third Street in reference to a 23 year-old female of Salem who had broken out a window of the building valued at $250. That investigation of the report led to the arrest of the suspect who was issued a summons to appear in court and released. On Tuesday evening, May 22nd, at approximately 6:50, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 600 block of East Gibbs Street in reference to a domestic disturbance. That investigation led to the arrest of a 63-year-old male and a 51-year-old female, both of Salem, for the possession of methamphetamine, possession of controlled substances, and the possession of drug paraphernalia. The suspects were released pending the application for warrants. Later that same evening at approximately 9:26, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. That stop led to the arrest of a 47-year old male of Salem for driving while revoked. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and was released. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 573-729-4242 if you have any information regarding an ongoing investigation.

Weather permitting, general highway maintenance and construction work will take place in the area during the two-week period starting today and lasting through June 8th. Many projects will include lane closures that could cause delays. Pavement patching will take place Thursday, May 31st, on Highway 32 between Route W and Craig Industrial Drive. One lane will be open, and crews will flag traffic through the work area. Roadway resurfacing continues on Highway 119 between Highway 32 and Dent County Road 6670. One lane will be open. Crews and a pilot car will guide traffic through the work area. A culvert pipe replacement will take place Tuesday, May 29th through Thursday, May 31st on Route DD between Route H and Dent County Road 2210. One lane will be open, and crews will flag traffic through the work area. MoDOT reminds motorists to buckle up, slow down, follow posted signs and drive safely through work areas. For more information about a project, please contact MoDOT at 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit their website at www.modot.org/central.

The Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District announced four Salem R-80 students were honored with first and second place awards and honorable mentions in the 27th Annual Earth Day Poster, Trash and Graphic Art contest. This year’s contest theme was “Be a Hero: Your Planet Needs You.” Winners from the Salem R-80 District were 8th grader Johnny Scott from the Salem Middle School who took 1st Place in Trash Art; 6th grader Cooper Beeson from the Salem Middle School who captured 2nd Place in Trash Art; senior Emily Nash from the Salem High School who was given Honorable Mention in Poster Art; and junior Nick Stringer from Salem High School who was given Honorable Mention in Trash Art. Salem R-80 students participating in the contest were under the direction of teachers Angela Dingess (Salem Middle School) and Bessie Sanders (Salem High School). Congratulations R-80 students!

The Dent County Commissioners met for their regular meeting Thursday morning in the Courthouse. In the road report District One Commissioner Dennis Purcell reported that materials would be added to and grading would be done on Dent County Roads 6410 and 6580, while grading only would be done on county roads 4220, 6010 and 5420. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson said that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2570, 4300 and 2360, plus patch grading would be done to fix washouts on county roads 4430, 2320, 2050 and 2330. He went on to say that materials would be added to Dent County Roads 3270, 4300, 2320 and 2360. Larson said that a man was screening brown rock at the Road and Bridge Department and that the recent numerous washouts had really worked on depleting the supply of brown rock. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said that all three Commissioners attended the Hazardous Mitigation Plan meeting Monday afternoon, plus he attended the GRO meeting Tuesday evening. He went on to report that he would be attending the Region I Homeland Security Committee Meeting in St. James Thursday afternoon. Skiles reminded everyone that the Commission is seeking bids on new carpet for the courtroom and for the installation of windows on the third floor of the Courthouse and that the Courthouse would be closed Monday in observance of Memorial Day. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said that bills were being approved by the Commissioners for payment and that Tuesday she attended the website meeting with Tabitha Utley, Ray Walden and others. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams was in to report that the CART receipts for May were $59,599.54, which is up year-to-date $2,356.32 or nearly .85%. She noted that $59,008.06 was received for May of 2017. Due to the Courthouse being closed on Monday for Memorial Day next regular meeting of the Commission will be Thursday morning at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

The Memorial Day weekend is here you and you will have an opportunity to visit family or friends, go to one of Missouri’s lakes, or enjoy any number of recreation opportunities in the state. A safe, fun weekend starts with you. The Missouri State Highway Patrol will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness Reduction Effort) during the long holiday weekend. This means every available trooper will be on the road enforcing traffic laws and assisting motorists. In addition, the Patrol will assign troopers to 20-mile intervals along Interstates 29, 44, 55, and 70, and U.S. Highways 60 and 61 on May 25, 2018 and May 28, 2018. Troopers taking part in the holiday peak travel crash reduction enforcement project will be alert for all traffic offenses, and be especially vigilant to aggressive driving violations. Over the 2017 Memorial Day holiday weekend, nine people died and 496 were injured in 1,122 traffic crashes. Last year, troopers made 107 DWI arrests. This year’s fatality counting period for the holiday weekend begins at 6:00 Friday evening and it ends at 11:59 Monday night. Troopers will focus their attention on seat belt use, use of child safety seats, impaired drivers, hazardous moving violations, and speed violations. Motorists are encouraged to be safe and courteous drivers. Speed, inattention, and impaired driving are leading causes of traffic crashes. Please do your part. Obey all traffic laws and make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. Motorists in need of assistance Highway Patrol’s Emergency Assistance number 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. For road condition reports, travelers can visit the Patrol’s website at www.mshp.dps.mo.gov. Click on the Road Condition icon to view road construction areas throughout the state or call 1-888-275-6636.

Missouri Attorney General Josh Hawley, joined by 14 other state attorneys general, filed an amicus brief supporting the repeal of the Obama Administration’s 2017 Organic Livestock and Poultry Practices Rule. The brief argues that this Rule, adopted on the very last day of the Obama Administration, was both illegal and economically unjustifiable. The 1990 Organic Foods Production Act was intended to impose specific feed and medicinal production standards for “USDA certified organic” products. In contrast, the 2017 Rule focused almost entirely on animal care and living conditions, imposing stringent requirements that poultry have access to outdoor soil. Legally, the states argue, the Obama USDA did not have statutory authority to enact animal-welfare regulations about outdoor access under the guise of regulating organic foods. Economic analysis also demonstrates that this regulation would have been extremely harmful for small organic farmers and consumers across the country. The high cost of complying with this rule would have likely driven many producers out of the organic farming business, leading to an estimated loss of $80-86 billion. This, in turn, would have driven up the cost of the organic products, harming consumers and reducing consumer choices. Missouri has 302 certified organic farms, totaling 41,078 acres. Missouri farmers produced 386 million organic eggs in 2016, generating over $70 million in revenue.

An accident occurred Tuesday afternoon at 1:00 in Dent County on Highway 32 at Boss that took the life of a Salem woman. According to the Highway Patrol Report a 2007 Pontiac G5, driven by 36 year-old Laurel Cottingham, was eastbound when the vehicle crossed the center line, traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck the bridge abutment. The Pontiac then spun around and struck the other side of the bridge. Cottingham was pronounced deceased at 1:30 by Dent County Sheriff Bob Wells. The report stated that the victim was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Pontiac was totaled and removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing.

The Dent County Sheriff’s office has released some reports. On Tuesday, May 8th, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Roosevelt Street near Highway HH. The driver, a 26-year old Salem man, was arrested for driving without a valid license. He was fingerprinted, issued a citation, and released. On Wednesday, May 9th, deputies conducted a knock-and-talk investigation at a residence on County Road 2380. Consent to search was granted and a glass methamphetamine smoking device was located. The smoking devices field tested positive for methamphetamine. Also located was a pistol. As a result, a 50-year old Salem man was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, unlawful use of a weapon, and unlawful possession of a firearm. He was taken to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. On Thursday, May 10th, deputies responded to Private Lane 619 for a domestic disturbance. Consent to search a vehicle was granted and Ziploc bags of marijuana were located in the trunk. As a result, a 26-year old Salem man was arrested. He was fingerprinted, issued a citation, and released. On Saturday, May 12th, deputies conducted a traffic stop on County Road 4110. The driver, a 29-year old Salem man, was arrested for while revoked. He was fingerprinted, issued a citation, and released. Later that day deputies responded to a residence on Highway 68 for a domestic disturbance. After an investigation a 26-year old Salem man was arrested for felony domestic assault 3rd degree. He was taken to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. On Monday, May 5th, deputies responded to the 20,000 block of Highway C for a burglary. It was reported that the lock to the gate had been cut and a window had been broken. At a nearby residence, a light fixture had been pulled out of a light post. This report is still under investigation. On Tuesday, May 15th, deputies attempted to serve a felony arrest warrant at a residence on Highway K. Consent to the search was granted and the 33-year old Salem man was located hiding in the attic. He was taken to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. On Thursday, May 17th, deputies conducted a traffic stop on County Road 6210 near Highway Z. The driver, a 24-year old Salem woman, was arrested for driving while suspended. She was fingerprinted, issued a summons, and released. If you have information regarding an ongoing investigation, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at (573) 729-3241.

The American Legion Walker-Roney Post 99 in Salem will host a Memorial Day Service on Memorial Day Monday, beginning at 10 am at the Cedar Grove Cemetery. Master of Ceremonies will be Chaplain Richard LaBrash. The Boy Scouts will decorate graves, the National Anthem will be led by Barbra Medlock and the Ladies Auxiliary. The Invocation will be by Chaplain Richard LaBrash and everyone will be welcomed by Commander Dennis Charland. Glenda Wofford will place a wreath, Katelyn Schwartz, Miss Salem 2018, will present We Remember, Sheri Stack will sing America the Beautiful and Bill Stack will be the guest speaker. Closing remarks will be by Commander
Charland. The ceremonies will end with a benediction, rifle salute and the playing of Taps. Lunch will be served at the post following the ceremonies.

Saturday the renovated Alice Lou Craig Municipal Pool in the Salem City Park will re-open to the public at noon. The pool will be open from noon to 7:00 in the evening Monday through Saturday, and from 1:00 to 6:00 on Sunday. The pool has been changed significantly even though the initial footprint of the pool has not been altered all that much. The pool now offers a zero depth entry with plenty of new features including a dual gator aqua slide, Felipe Frog Aqua Spout, Billy Box Turtle Aqua Spout, a Pools and Fall Play Center, three bubblers, two aqua arches and two jet ways. In the middle section of the pool, there is a new adjustable water basketball goal, a two flume water slide and a brand new feature that only the Salem pool has called an Aqua Zip’N. In the deep end is a one meter diving board and a 16-foot rock climbing wall. All new stainless steel gutters were installed on the pool with a “cool” to the touch grate. Those who are physically challenged will find two ADA lift chairs and a 40-foot walking assist entry into the pool from the zero-depth entry. Four huge “funbrellas” will provide some welcome shade to the area and new loungers have also been purchased to enjoy those who want to be in the sun. The pool house has been renovated and now has an ADA family changing room, a new roof with lighting, new entry way, has been repainted on the inside and out with a traction paint put on the floor. The concession stand will also have two serving windows for those in or out of the pool who would like to sample the new healthy menu that will be served this year.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen met for their regular meeting Monday evening in the City Hall Council Chambers. The bid for the Fourth of July fireworks in the amount of $16,000 from Premier Pyrotechnics, Richland, Missouri was approved. The amount is a budgeted item and Premier Pyrotechnics has done the fireworks display in previous years. The Board approved the appointment of Beth Atchison to the Park Board. Parks and Recreation Director Tye Lydon reported that the lifeguards are currently in training. He noted that a pool walk through was done Monday and that a few items were identified to be corrected by the contractor. Lydon noted that he had received a donation of hotdogs and hamburgers from US Foods for Thursday’s opening of the baseball, softball and T-ball season. He also reported that Saturday would be the opening of the Alice Lou Craig Pool. Lydon was asked when the Splash Pad would be back in operation. He said that they were waiting on the City Crew to finish the concrete work around the Pad and that the pump had to be turned off to keep mud and dirt from getting into the pump. City Administrator Ray Walden reported that progress was being made on the economic development position and he should have a recommendation in the next few weeks. He requested a policy change to require plan review for commercial buildings before building permits are issued. During discussion it was noted that the policy should apply to new construction and structural changes of existing structures. City Attorney Camm Seay said that the policy change will require an ordinance and that currently the City is not meeting State Statutes. Walden also requested a review of the certificates of occupancy ordinances. He reported that the Salem Community Center @ The Armory assisted 5,276 people at their facility in the Month of April. City Attorney Seay reported that he had a discussion with Dan Vogel, whose firm principally works with municipal law, about updating the City’s Ordinances on Planning and Zoning and dangerous buildings. Seay requested that the Board of Alderman consider budgeting about $7,000 in each of the next three years to accomplish the update. Bill No. 3388, an ordinance authorizing the Mayor to execute an agreement between the City of Salem, Missouri and the Dent County Commons for leasing of the Commons for the annual Fourth of July activities, was read and approved by the aldermen. Park Director Lydon’s request for purchase of liquid chlorine for the pool at a cost of $3,120 was approved. No action was taken on the Cemetery’s backhoe repairs. The repairs will be included in budgeting for capital improvements.

The Salem Police Department has released some reports. On Friday, May 11th just after midnight, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 19-year old female of Salem for the possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. The suspect was issued summonses to appear in court and released. That afternoon at about 5:32, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 600 block of East Hunt in reference to a fight in progress. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 35-year old male and a 33-year old female, both of Rolla for disorderly conduct. The two suspects were issued summonses to appear in court and released. On Saturday, May 12th at approximately 3:28 in the afternoon, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 500 block of South Jackson in reference to a lost or stolen license plate. That investigation revealed that a license plate was missing from a green 1997 Isuzu. The report is under investigation. On Sunday, May 13th at 5:51 in the afternoon, an officer located a 35-year old male of Salem near Highway 32 and Beasley Street who had an active arrest warrant from Dent County. The suspect was taken into custody on the warrant and incarcerated pending a court appearance. On Monday, May 11th at 1:03 in the morning, an officer located a 30-year old female of Salem in the 1000 block of West Coffman who had an active arrest warrant from Dent County. The suspect was taken into custody on the warrant and incarcerated pending a court appearance. That afternoon at 2:50, an officer located a 31-year old male of Salem near the Salem City Park who had two active arrest warrants from Dent County. The suspect was taken into custody on the warrant and later released after paying all fines and costs associated with the warrants. Early that evening at 6:45, an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department in reference to a lost or stolen license plate. The investigation of the report revealed that a license plate was missing from a silver 2017 Nissan. The report is under investigation. at about 9:08 that same evening, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 700 block of Thomas Avenue in reference to a lost or stolen license plate. That investigation revealed a license plate was missing from a white 1989 Ford truck. The report is under investigation. Then at 10:56 that night, an officer was detailed to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 21-year old male of Salem for stealing merchandise valued at $10.46. The suspect was issued a summons to appear in court and released. If you have information regarding an ongoing investigation, please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242.

The Salem Community Acoustic Jam will be held Saturday night at 6:30 at the Creative Arts Center at 6:30. Musicians and listeners of all ages and talents are invited and there is no cost. For more information, call 247-0279.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning in the Dent County Courthouse. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams was in to report that Congress had authorized an increase in the Rural Schools Act and the County received an additional $66,147.48. She noted that the money would be disbursed as follows: $16,536.87 to Road and Bridge, $12,134.76 to Salem R-80, $10,021.35 to Oak Hill R-1, $421.69 to Northwood R-4, $7,833.50 to Viburnum C4 and $19,199.31 to Bunker R2. In the road report District One Commissioner Dennis Purcell noted that due to the 3 to 4 inches of weekend rainfall his crews were out repairing washouts, cleaning clogged pipes and removing downed trees. He went on to say that it would take several days for the county’s roads to be back to where they were before the storms. Purcell also said he would be attending a Tourism Commission meeting Monday evening. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson echoed Purcell’s comments and also noted he had calls over the weekend about downed trees on the roadways in his district. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said the Commission continues to seek bids on carpet for the entire Courthouse and replacement of the 3rd floor windows. He noted that the Commissioners would be attending the Hazardous Mitigation Plan meeting Monday afternoon. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reminded everyone that the Courthouse would be closed Monday in observance of Memorial Day. Bids were opened for chip and seal and the Commissioners voted 3-0 to approve the bid from N.B. West Contracting for 12.9 miles of single coat chip and seal at $1.24 per square yard and one mile of double coat chip and seal at $3.45 per square yard. The next regular meeting of the Commission will be Thursday at 9:00 in the Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

On Friday, May 18th, deputies with the Dent County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop at Sinclair County Fuels on Highway 32 West in Salem. Deputies were following up on a suspicious vehicle call for a motorcycle and car with out of state plates. The driver of the car, a 27-year old St. Charles man, and the passenger, a 21-year old Wright City woman, were arrested on outstanding warrants. The driver of the motorcycle, 29-year old James Judd of Winfield, fled into the woods behind the Al Brown fields. A search was conducted but he was not located. A K9 was utilized to sniff the vehicle and it gave a positive alert. A subsequent search of the vehicle yielded a black plastic “ammo can” with a glass-smoking device, digital scale, and over 90 grams of methamphetamine. The two individuals in the car were charged with 1st Degree Accessory to Trafficking Drugs and are each being held on a $100,000 cash only bond. Judd is a wanted fugitive and is still being sought by law enforcement. The Dent County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Salem Police Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. The above information is a mere accusation, and is not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of any charge must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

A boating accident occurred Saturday on the Lake of the Ozarks that took the lives of three Kansas residents. According to the Highway Patrol Report the accident occurred at the 47.5 mile mark of the main channel at midnight when a 1991 Regal Runabout, operated by 22 year-old Hayden Frazier of Overland Park, Kansas, struck a rock bluff ejecting Frazier along with occupants Joseph Lemark of Overland Park and 21 year-old Hailey Hochanadel of Olathe, Kansas. Lemark and Hochanadel were pronounced deceased at the scene by Medical Examiner Jason Elliot. Daniel Lewis of Overland Park was pronounced deceased within the boat. Twenty-one year old Ashley Lamb of Olathe suffered serious injuries and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Springfield by Staff For Life. Frazier suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Lake Regional Hospital.

The Bonebrake Center of Nature and History will present “Going Batty” on Friday night, May 25th starting at 6:30. Led by naturalist Janet Price of Moonshadow Moments, LLC, formerly of Johnson’s Shut-Ins, explore the magic of BATS! If you don’t like bugs driving YOU batty, check out how bats take care of the problem for us—for free! Count Batula will be flying in to share some secrets, songs, and even a bat rap with us! This program is appropriate for all ages and is especially family-friendly. The cost is $1.00 per person or $5.00/family, regardless of the number, which includes a light snack. Phone reservations are requested to plan for snacks and activities. Please call the Bonebrake Center (573.729.3400) for more information or register. The Bonebrake Center is located at 601 North Hickory Street in Salem, at the corner of North Hickory Street and East Rolla Road.

The Dent County Open Youth Market animal jackpot show will be held June 2nd at The Commons on Highway 72 in Salem. The show will feature hogs, goats, lambs, and steers. The hog weigh in takes place at 7 a.m. with goats, lambs, and steers to follow. For more information contact Bambi Merrifield at 573-729-2234 or 573-739-9782 or Marsha Fenton at 573-739-4563 or 573-247-7828.

Time is running out for everyone in the Salem Community, or for those who work or have visited Salem to complete an online Community Confidence survey for GRO Salem. The purpose of this survey is to gain an understanding of how community members perceive the Salem community. The goal is to conduct this survey every year and closely monitor the changes from year to year. This is a follow up survey to the one that was done last year and your response will help GRO Salem monitor the changes from the previous year to help develop their strategy for the upcoming year. The data collected will be crucial in helping them understand where the Community and Economic Development efforts are making positive impacts with the general public and where additional efforts need to be expended. Surveys need to be completed by this Friday, May 25th, and your response is appreciated. Let your friends, neighbors, co-workers, or church family in the Salem area know about this survey as the more responses that are received, the better GRO Salem can assess what needs to be addressed. There are only five questions and the survey should take no more than five minutes of your time to complete. You can find the survey at www.facebook.com/GroSalem.MO. You will have to scroll down a bit to find the survey. Your effort is appreciated!

City and county officials, school leaders, emergency management agencies and interested residents are invited to attend a public meeting this afternoon at 2:00 in the Salem City Hall Council Chambers to continue development of the Dent County Hazard Mitigation Plan. The county must have an approved hazard mitigation plan in order for Dent County schools, local governments, agencies and others to access state hazard mitigation grant funds. The plan includes an assessment of natural hazards and will establish goals and action items to reduce the impact of natural hazards in the future. Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) is developing the plan in partnership with the Dent County Commission. The more people who attend this meeting reduces the cost of the developing the plan to the county.

The Salem Board of Aldermen will be meeting Monday night at 7:00 in the City Hall Council Chambers for their regular meeting. The board received just one bid from Premier Pyrotechnics for $16,000 for the annual fireworks display at The Commons. Mayor Brad Nash will then appoint Beth Atchison to a one-year term on the City of Salem Park and Recreation Board. In the reports of city officials, board and committees, Salem Park and Recreation Director Tye Lydon will report on the Park Board meeting held Friday, May 11th that will include a report on their pool visit, the opening ceremony on Thursday, May 24th for participants in the T-Ball, softball and baseball at the City Park, and other business. City Administrator Ray Walden will discuss the Economic Development position search, discuss a policy change to require a plan review for a commercial project before building permits are issued, discuss and review the certificates of occupancy ordinance, and Walden will request the board develop their 2018-2019 goals and priorities. City Attorney Camm Seay wishes to update the city’s ordinances on Planning and Zoning and on dangerous buildings. Mayor Nash will give his report before the board discusses the ordinance to lease The Commons for the 4th of July Fireworks Activities. The board will review a request to purchase liquid chlorine for the pool of $3,120; and also the cost of repairing the Cemetery’s backhoe that should come to about $5,000 by Kyle Wofford who can replace the cylinders. The board may then go into closed session.

The Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start to the boating season. During the 2017 Memorial Day weekend, there were 15 boating crashes which included seven injuries and one fatality. Two people drowned over last year’s holiday weekend. Troopers arrested 20 people for boating while intoxicated in 2017. Boating is a great pastime and troopers want everyone to enjoy themselves. Never operate a boat while you are impaired; never ride with an impaired operator. Please be courteous to others on the water, wear a life jacket, and obey the law regarding safe operation of a vessel and no wake zones. Causing harm to another person or their property with an excessive boat wake may subject you to enforcement action or civil liability. Always treat other boaters and property owners as you want to be treated. Watercraft operators must consider the effect their actions have on others: Share the waterway and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Life jackets save lives. Wear It!! Boaters in need of assistance or who want to report a crime should use the Highway Patrol’s Emergency Assistance number 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. For road condition reports, travelers can visit the Patrol’s website at www.mshp.dps.mo.gov. Click on the Road Condition icon to view road construction areas throughout the state or call 1-888-275-6636.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors will conduct their May meeting Tuesday in the hospital library beginning at 6:00 pm. After approval of the agenda, will be the approval of the minutes from the April 17th meeting. Hospital Administrator Kasey Lucas will discuss the hospital foundation, give an update on the auxiliary and community marketing as well as give the patient satisfaction survey results for the SMDH emergency department and the SMDH family medicine. In old business the Board will address a budget committee meeting report. During new business the Board will address purchases made for the hospital. The May meeting of the Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors is open to the public.

The Salem Acoustic Jam will be held Saturday night at 6:30 at the Creative Arts Center, formerly the Teachers Closet, at 6:30.Musicians and listeners of all ages and talents are invited and there is no cost. For more information, call 247-0279 or e-mail saac@embarqmail.com.

In just over a week, the renovated Alice Lou Craig Municipal Pool in the Salem City Park will re-open to the public beginning at noon on Saturday, May 26th. The pool will be open from noon to 7:00 in the evening Monday through Saturday, and from 1:00 to 6:00 on Sunday. The pool has been changed significantly even though the initial footprint of the pool has not been altered all that much. The pool now offers a zero depth entry with plenty of new features including a dual gator aqua slide, Felipe Frog Aqua Spout, Billy Box Turtle Aqua Spout, a Pools and Fall Play Center, three bubblers, two aqua arches and two jet ways. In the middle section of the pool, there is a new adjustable water basketball goal, a two flume water slide and a brand new feature that only the Salem pool has called an Aqua Zip’N. In the deep end is a one meter diving board and a 16-foot rock climbing wall. All new stainless steel gutters were installed on the pool with a “cool” to the touch grate. Those who are physically challenged will find two ADA lift chairs and a 40-foot walking assist entry into the pool from the zero-depth entry. Four huge “funbrellas” will provide some welcome shade to the area and new loungers have also been purchased to enjoy for those who want to be in the sun. The pool house has been renovated and now has an ADA family changing room, new roof with lighting, new entry way, repainted on the inside and out with a traction paint put on the floor. The concession stand will also have two serving windows for those in or out of the pool who would like to sample the new healthy menu that will be served this year. Those waiting will be shaded with the extension of the new roof inside the pool area. Admission to the pool is $4.00 for children, $5.00 for adults and $4.00 for seniors who are 62-years of age and above. Season Family Passes are available for $150 that includes two adults and two children with an additional charge of $35 per each family member above four. Pool parties are available daily from 7:00 to 9:00 in the evening and from 6:00 to 8:00 on Sundays starting at $150 per hour. Swimming lessons are also available starting June 11th as well as a Water Aerobics Class and lap swimming. To get your season pass, book your pool party, or to reserve a pavilion at the park for your family get-togethers, call Parks and Recreation Director Tye Lydon at 729-6290 or e-mail him at salemparks@salemmo.com. Pool parties and pavilion rentals are first come, first served.

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning at the courthouse to discuss county business. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell stated materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Roads 4150 and 4155, while grading only would be done on county roads 4124, 4126, 5420, 5590 and if time permits, 6470. He said another man would be cutting brush on county road 6300. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported grading would be done on Dent County Roads 3020, 3030, 3040, 3050 and 4353. Larson said grading would be also done on county road 4280 and brush would also be cut on that road as well. He went on to say brush would be cut on county road 4270 and materials would be added to Dent County Road 3160. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles reported on the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District Executive Board meeting where they approved the grant packet for recycling that will become available around July 1st. There was a discussion on recycling prices in the United States and that it is becoming more expensive to recycle and there is even less money being given for recycled items at this time. Skiles said that on June 9th from 8:00 until noon at the Brewer Science parking lot in Rolla, there will be an electronics, appliance and tire collection. There will be charges for all types of TVs, computer monitors and tires. Skiles also reported on the County Commissioner Association of Missouri meeting in Jefferson City. He said that it appears the per diem the county gets back on prisoners is not going to change, and it also appears the legislature is going to change the juvenile age to 18. If that does happen, that will affect the costs of the juvenile court system that falls back on the counties to fund. Skiles went on to say the CCAM retreat where they put together the annual training will be held this year at Echo Bluff State Park starting July 31st and lasting through August 2nd. Terry Baker from Dent County Road 2083 came in to find out what it would take to close part of the county road that dead ends on his property. Commissioner Larson will get with Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Curley to get all the details of the procedures and get them to him. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

City and county officials, school leaders, emergency management agencies and interested residents are invited to attend a public meeting at 2:00 on Monday, May 21st to continue development of the Dent County Hazard Mitigation Plan. The meeting will be held in the Salem City Hall Council Chambers located at 202 N. Washington Street in Salem. The focus of this meeting will be to review the remaining draft chapters of the plan. An overview of each completed chapter will be discussed. Those in attendance will be able to suggest edits and ask questions during the meeting. The county must have an approved hazard mitigation plan in order for Dent County schools, local governments, agencies and others to access state hazard mitigation grant funds. The plan includes an assessment of natural hazards and will establish goals and action items to reduce the impact of natural hazards in the future. Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) is developing the plan in partnership with the Dent County Commission. Questions may be directed to MRPC Environmental Programs Specialist Ryan Dunwoody at rdunwoody@meramecregion.org or 573-265-2993.

The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks will have a blood drive today at Salem Wood Products at 200 Stave Mill Road. O-Negative and B Negative blood types are at less than one day reserve, but all blood types are needed. You must weigh 110 pounds, be in good health and bring a photo ID to give blood.