Local News

According to Dent County Clerk Angie Curley, the Dent County Commission on Monday went into closed session. The results of the closed session indicated the Commission voted 3-0 to accept the Temporary Emergency Order from Associate Circuit Judge Brandi Baird, and accept upon her recommendation to hire Christy Chamberlain as full time employee to serve in the Public Administrator’s office until the Governor’s appointment takes office or she resigns. The minutes of the meeting will not become official until the Commission approves them at their next meeting which will be on Monday, August 7th.

If you would like to apply for the Public Administrator position for the County of Dent, just go to this website: https://boards.mo.gov. Go to “Apply for Boards” (a red button), then create an account for the online application by giving your e-mail and creating a password. At this time, view vacant positions (a blue button) and choose Dent County. Fill out the application and you may attach a resume. If you have any questions about applying for the Public Administrator position, call Alissa at 573-522-2645.

The Salem Police Department has submitted a number of reports. On Monday, July 24th an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 400 block of South Warfel. The investigation showed that a 2008 Pontiac G5 had been shot with a shotgun striking the door, mirror and glass, plus three tires had been cut by a person or persons unknown. The value of the damage to the Pontiac was approximately $1,500.00. Tuesday morning, July 25th, at 8:10, an officer was contacted at the station in reference to a theft from a vehicle. The investigation revealed that someone took an Ipod valued at $100.00 from a silver 2004 Chevrolet Impala that was parked in the 400 block of West Seventh. That afternoon at 4:22, an officer was sent to a residence in the 100 block of South Carty in reference to a disturbance. That investigation revealed that a 37-year old Salem male had started fighting with a 17-year old Salem male. While the 37-year old suspect attempted to fight, a 21-year old Salem female took property belonging to the 37-year old man. Further investigation led to the arrest of the 37-year old suspect for disorderly contact and the 21-year old female for stealing. Both were issued summonses to appear in court and released. That same afternoon at 5:44, an officer was dispatched to the area of East Roosevelt in reference to an intoxicated driver driving on the sidewalk. Upon investigation, the officer located the vehicle near the Salem Care Center parked upon the stop curb in the parking lot. After further investigation, the driver of the vehicle, a 44-year old female of Salem, was taken into custody for driving while being intoxicated, issued a summons to appear in court, and was released. That night at 9:35, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The investigation of the stop led to the arrest of a 34-year old of Salem for driving while having his license suspended and having an open beer container. The suspect was issued summonses to appear in court and was released. On Wednesday, July 26th, there were several reports. At 10:05 that morning, an officer was detailed to a residence in the 800 block of East Ellis in reference to a theft. The investigation revealed that a person or persons unknown took items from the yard of a residence valued at approximately at $3,000. Then at 4:40 that afternoon, an officer was detailed to Casey’s General Store on Highway 32 in reference to a theft of fuel. The investigation revealed that the driver of a gold sport utility vehicle pumped fuel valued at $26.00 and left without paying. Later, at 5:20, an officer was detailed to the 100 block of Amber Trail in reference to a theft. That investigation revealed that a 50cc mini bike valued at $100.00 was taken from the porch of a residence. Finally at 9:58 that night, an officer located a 31-year old Salem male in the 400 block of South Askins who had active arrest warrants from the city of Salem, Dent County and Crawford County. He was taken into custody on the warrants and incarcerated pending a court appearance. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

Stop by the Van Buren Visitor Center this Sunday, August 6th, from 1:00-4:00 pm, for a program on one room schoolhouses in the Ozarks. A Park Ranger will share the history of one room schools that were found along the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers. Hear stories about local Ozark schools and learn what a day in a one room school was like. Participants will get to experience fun educational activities from a simpler time, like ciphering matches, spelling bees and practicing cursive penmanship on slates. We might even play some traditional outdoor recess games like “Wolf over the Ridge”! Visit our one room schoolhouse exhibit celebrating a legacy of learning, at the Van Buren Visitor Center, open daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. One room schoolhouses across the United States served not only as places to teach children reading, writing and arithmetic; but as a community gathering place for social events. From bravely reciting passages out of a speller, belting out “My Country ‘Tis of Thee”, and lunches in tin buckets, rural educations and one room schoolhouses provided a foundation for the future. For more information visit, www.nps.gov/ozar or call 573-323-4236.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse for their regular meeting. At the meeting, Dent County resident George Green was there to discuss problems with Dent County Road 2130 and where it intersects county road 2120. He said the ditches need to be pulled which has not been done for over a year and the road needs to be crowned. He said the culvert underneath the intersection of roads 2130 and 2120 needs to be replaced as the one end has been crushed and the water no longer drains properly. He went on to report that on county road 2120, there has been a washout of about three feet deep that the residents keep filling with gravel and dirt to make it passable, and the weeds need to be cut. He brought several photographs to District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson for his review. Green understands about the getting the road back in shape after the flood and the training of a new guy, but he asking for something to be done. Larson said those roads were to be addressed this week. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell stated grading would be done on Dent County Roads 5100, 5103, 5105, 5450, 5480 and 6350 while brush is going to be cut on county roads 5010, 5015, 5080, 6490, 6500 and 6510. Purcell also said a man would be going to Springfield to retrieve oil for the Durapatcher to do chip and seal repair. Larson gave the report for District 2 and he said grading was going to be done and materials added on Dent County Roads 2120 and 2130, while only grading would be done on county roads 3350 and 4290. He went on to report brush would be cut on county road 3260. Larson did say that a new radiator is being put in truck #72 and new tires are being put on truck #75. He also reported a man would be patching chip and seal with the ultimate paving material on Dent County Road 2300. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles stated there would not be a commissioner meeting on Thursday. He will be attending a County Commission Association of Missouri summer board meeting to plan the annual training for February and Commissioner Larson has a prior commitment. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley suggested August 14th at 10:00 for the county tax rate hearing and the commissioner approved her request. She also said the county offices would need a new long distance carrier as Sprint no longer offers those services and shut off services Friday to about 13 offices. She was able to get a 30 day extension. Curley was told to get the CenturyLink and Fidelity Long Distance charges so that could be compared before a decision is reached. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Monday, August 7th at 9:00 at the courthouse.

The Salem Police Department submitted the following reports. On Wednesday, July 19th at 5:57 in the afternoon, an officer was detailed to a residence in the 1400 block of South Hickory in reference to property damage. The report revealed a person or persons unknown broke a window of the residence value at $40.00. On Friday morning, July 21st at 2:52 in the morning, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The stop led to the arrest of a 68-year old male of Salem for driving while being drugged. He was issued a summons to appear in court and released. That same morning at 8:01 an officer transported a 22-year old male of Salem to Royal Oaks Treatment Center in Windsor in regards to a commitment order. Later that night at 9:04, an officer located a 30-year old male of Salem in the 100 block of North Park who had an active arrest warrant from the City of Salem. He was taken into custody on the warrant and incarcerated pending a court appearance. On Saturday, July 22nd at 1:15 in the afternoon, an officer was sent to Sears in reference to a shoplifter. The report led to the arrest of a 51-year old Salem male for stealing merchandise valued at $127.00. He was issued a summons to appear in court and was released. Later that afternoon at 2:39, an officer was contacted in reference to a forgery. That investigation revealed that a female suspect forged and cashed a check for $100.00. On Sunday, July 23rd at 5:17 in the morning, an officer was dispatched to Babb Lane in reference to a suspicious vehicle. The investigation revealed a male and a female removing and repacking items from the vehicle. Further investigation revealed a number of stolen license plates, stolen property, and the vehicle had been stolen. The suspects, a 25-year old male and a 36-year old female, both of Springfield, were charged with 1st degree tampering with a motor vehicle, possession of a controlled substance and stealing a motor vehicle. Both suspects were incarcerated pending an application for warrants. Later that morning at 11:05, an officer was detailed to a residence in the 800 block of East Hunt in reference to a theft. The investigation revealed two bicycles valued at $100.00 had been taken. Then at 10:16 that night, an officer was sent to a residence in the 700 block of South Carty in reference to a domestic disturbance. That investigation led to the arrest of an 18-year old female of Salem on an active arrest warrant from Phelps County. She was taken into custody on the warrant and later released with a new court date after posting a $1,000.00 bond. Please contact the Salem Police Department 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released their reports. On Friday, July 14th, deputies responded to a call on Dent County Road 6610 for a burglary report. It was discovered that a large amount of tools and a red Land’s Pride Trekker UTV were stolen from the residence. This report is still under investigation. On Thursday, July 20th, deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 500 block of County Road 2440. During the stop it was discovered that the driver, a 28-year old Salem woman, and the passenger, a 30-year old Salem man, had warrants for their arrest. They were taken to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. On Friday, July 21st, deputies conducted a traffic stop in the 1100 block of Highway 32 West. During the stop, it was discovered that the vehicle was taken from a local impound lot without permission by the driver, a 68-year old Salem man. The vehicle belonged to the suspect, but had been towed by law enforcement previously in the day. As a result, he was arrested for theft. He was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and later released on summons to appear in court. On Saturday, July 22nd, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Highway 19 South, near Center Street. While speaking with the driver, deputies were able to detect an odor of alcohol and believed the driver to be under the influence. A short investigation began and as a result, the driver, a 43-year old Salem woman, was arrested for driving while being intoxicated. She was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where she was fingerprinted and released on summons to appear in court. On Monday, July 24th, deputies arrested a 30-year old Salem man from the 35000 block of Highway 72. He had seven warrants for his arrest. He was taken to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. On Tuesday, July 25th, deputies conducted an investigation at a residence in the 1000 block of East Monday Street. As a result, a 52-year old Salem man and a 46 year old Rolla man were arrested and issued summons for possession of marijuana. That same day, deputies responded to the 2000 block of Highway HH for a report of a trespassing. As a result, a 40-year old Salem woman was arrested for trespassing. She was issued a summons and released. On Friday, July 28th, deputies conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Routes H and CC. As a result, the driver, a 22-year old Edgar Springs man, was arrested for driving while having his license suspended. He was taken to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he was fingerprinted and released with a summons to appear in court. If anyone has any information about any ongoing investigation, please call the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors will conduct their August meeting on Tuesday, August 1st at the fire station beginning at 6:00 pm. After approval of the agenda and minutes from their July meeting, the Board will be reviewing financial reports and approve bills. The Board will then take a look at their calendar of upcoming events to be held at the fire station followed by the monthly reimbursement report for the month of July. The Board will then address any old business and in new business the Board will set a tax levy rate followed by reports on various items concerning the District. The Board may vote to go into closed session for the purpose of discussing personnel, if necessary and set their September meeting for Tuesday, September 5th at the fire station.

An accident occurred Friday afternoon at 4:12 in Dent County on Highway 19, about seven miles south of Salem. According to the highway patrol report, a 2003 Toyota Corolla driven by 20-year old Jessica Cason of Salem was traveling northbound when she drove off the right side of the road, struck an embankment, and overturned. Cason suffered minor injuries and was transported to Salem Memorial Hospital. The report stated that Carson was wearing a safety device. The Toyota Corolla sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing.

The Missouri Forest Products Association (MFPA) is now accepting applications for their logging school program that will begin about October 1, 2017 at the Camp at Lake Wappapello. The school is a 10-week course held 5 days a week and students are expected to stay at the camp throughout the week and housing will be in a dormitory on the property. The logging school tuition is expected to be $5,000 which covers room, meals and instruction for the 10-week period. A maximum of 12 students per session will be accepted in to the program and MFPA will offer two sessions per year, one in October and the other in February. There will classroom as well as field instruction covering topics such as: forest management, timber harvesting, marketing and utilization. To receive additional information, application materials and scholarship opportunities contact Fred Smith at (573) 619-4494.

Missouri students took first place on the world archery stage when Sarcoxie High School finished first place in the 3D Challenge at the National Archery in the Schools (NASP) World Tournament and 3D Challenge July 21st thru 22nd in Orlando, Florida. More than 3,390 student archers in grades 4-12 from more than 200 schools in two countries participated – including 205 Missouri students from nine schools. Missouri student archers participated through the Missouri National Archery in the Schools Program (MoNASP), which is coordinated through the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) in partnership with numerous schools and supporting organizations throughout the state. MoNASP is an affiliate of NASP and also promotes education, self-esteem, and physical activity for more than 135,000 Missouri students from 620 schools in grades 4-12 through participation in the sport of archery. Missouri students also showed off their skills in the individual portion of the tournament and 7th grader, Irvin Johnson of Salem took third place in the middle school males division with a score of 295 out of a possible 300. Congratulations Irvin on a job well done.

The Salem Police Department released their report for the month of June. During the month, they wrote three equipment repair orders, 14 summons to appear in court, 24 warning tickets, and 23 traffic tickets. The Salem Police Department investigated 10 accidents, one armed criminal action, four assaults, one burglary, one report of disorderly conduct, five reports of domestic violence, one report of driving while intoxicated and/or drugged, one report of driving while intoxicated, two reports of driving while having a revoked and/or suspended license, two reports of fraud, and one report of harassment. The department also investigated one report of a peace disturbance, three reports of property damage, three reports of resisting and/or interfering with an arrest, five reports of stealing, one report of a towed vehicle, and one 96 hour commitment. They also investigated six reports of possession of marijuana. The police department received 1,080 calls for service during the month, handled 90 walk-ins to the station, and redirected 46 calls to the animal control officer. They spent 28 hours in court testifying, six hours as court bailiff. The Salem Police Department drove a total of 8,075 miles and arrested 21 males and 9 females during the month of June.

The public will have an opportunity to learn to kayak at free weekly clinics at Current River State Park south of Salem. The kayak clinics will be held on Friday, July 28th and August 4th. The clinics will be from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm so expect a full day of learning and being on the water. The instructors for the clinics are certified by the American Canoe Association and all equipment will be provided. The morning session will be conducted on the lake with an optional afternoon session on the Current River paddling from Current River State Park to Round Spring. The clinics are free but space is limited so pre-registration is required. To register or for more information, contact the park at (573) 751-1224 or (573) 323-4235.

Customer traffic continues to increase at the Missouri Job Center Affiliate site in Salem. The office is located in the Salem Community Center @ the Armory located 1200 West Rolla Road. Sue Nardi, Career Consultant is available to assist customers Monday through Thursdays each week. Sue is available to assist job seekers with registration, resume development, completing on-line applications and job search. Additional services now available at the Salem Job Center include assessment to issue the National Career Readiness Certification (NCRC). The NCRC is a nationally recognized certification issued by ACT WorkKeys. Communities throughout the nation, including the Meramec sub-region in Central Missouri recognize the NCRC as validation of skills when considering job seekers for employment. Four levels of certification can be obtained. Bronze level confirms entry level abilities in “Reading and Understanding, Graphic Literacy and Applied Math”. Levels increase to confirm more advanced skills with Silver, Gold or Platinum certification. NCRC is a valuable tool for job seekers to use in demonstrating their skills and abilities to employers. NCRC allows employers to better match workers to specific jobs based on their assessed skill and competency levels. ACT WorkKeys Assessment is offered free of charge. Pre-screening will be conducted to ensure adequate skills to obtain an NCRC; the actual NCRC test is approximately three hours and testing dates can be scheduled. Call Sue (573) 578-5573 or stop by the Salem Community Center to learn more about MO Job Center Programs and Services.

Montauk will host a Kid’s Trout Tournament August 5th from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm. This tournament, sponsored by the Dorman L. Steelman Lodge, is limited to kids 15 years old and under. There will be two age categories, 11 and under and 12 to 15. Registration will be at the Dorman L. Steelman Lodge. Two prizes will be awarded in each age group, for trout and stringer of trout, by a random drawing of all entries at 2 p.m. in the lodge. Gift Certificates will be awarded to winners. Other prizes will be awarded courtesy of the Ray Parker Memorial.

The Salem Board of Aldermen met Monday evening in the Council Chambers for their regular meeting. The board approved the request from Randy League from the Midwest Blue Oval Car Club to close 4th Street, 5th Street and Iron Street around the courthouse square for their car show on September 9th. The board approved the purchase of a Kabota Zero Turn Mower to replace an old mower from Wayde’s Equipment from Cuba for $9,653.12, approved the purchase of two servers from Automated Business Systems for $11,324.79 that will replace a server bought in 2011 and allow the city to incorporate the Content Management System through the Encode bookkeeping system on the other, and they approved the purchase of a new copier for the city administrative office from ABS for $6,045 that will replace the old copier. City Administrator Ray Walden said the budget for the servers was $15,000 and the money remaining will be used to pay for the copier and a budget adjustment will be made at the next meeting for the remaining $2,369 for the copier. City Clerk Mary Happel reported the Finest Place Trailer Court has moved the vehicle that was there and has received their license. She said she also received the application from the Park Street Trailer Court. The board approved their application once it is verified they have completed any needed cleanup and repairs. Administrator Ray Walden said the Economic Development Position has been reposted with the new salary amount and the selection committee has been meeting regarding the consultants for the middle school. Walden was asked to revisit the Holiday Pay Policy of the city and presented it to the board that allows employees to get time and a half if they have to work on a holiday. The old policy was approved. Walden presented a new fund raising policy for the board to review that makes any person or group who wants to raise funds for a city project would have to bring their fundraiser to the board for final approval. The board approved the new policy. Mayor Brad Nash wanted to thank the water department for their response to a water leak in front of the Oak Grove Baptist Church and correct the problem. The board approved bill #3335 that allowed the mayor to execute an agreement to purchase real estate from the Wanda Park Trust to be used for a runway protection zone for the Salem Memorial Airport, and approved bill #3336 that changes ordinance #3333 which changes the monthly commercial manufacturing averaging from 400,000 to 350,000 gallons of water per month. The board postponed any action on Bill #3337 about the purchase of real estate from MFA due to an error in the description. The description will be corrected and brought back to the next meeting. The board set the public tax rate hearing for Monday, August 21st during the board’s regular meeting. The board approved allowing the Salem Police Department to apply for the yearly block grant from the Department of Justice before going into closed session.

Echo Bluff State Park is celebrating its one-year anniversary Saturday, July 29^th with activities and a bluegrass concert. The public is invited to the free anniversary party, which will be from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at the park south of Salem. Games and a birthday cake will be offered from 5:00 to 7:00 at the Lost Mine Shelter. This will be followed by a concert by the Baker Family, a local bluegrass band. The concert will be at 8:00 in the amphitheater. Missouri State Parks is celebrating 100 years in 2017. Visitors can experience all the park system has to offer with the Centennial Passport. Visit mostateparks.com/passport for more information. Echo Bluff State Park is located on Hwy. 19 approximately 25 miles south of Salem and 1-44 miles north of Eminence. For more information about the event, call the park at (573) 751-1224. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways will offer a “Fish with a Ranger” clinic on Sunday, July 30^th beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the river access adjacent to the Alley Spring Campground.  The clinic will be conducted while floating and will conclude at the Joshua T. Chilton Memorial Boat Landing in Eminence.  Participants should have a valid Missouri fishing license and provide their own vessel, transportation, fishing equipment and personal gear.  The floating distance is approximately 6.5 miles and is expected to take most of the day. The Jacks Fork River offers some of the finest fishing for smallmouth bass and goggle eye in the state.  Bring your canoe or kayak and join a Park Ranger to learn lure selection, fish identification, casting techniques, regulations, and catch/release practices.  Maybe even swap a few “fish stories” along the way! Contact Ranger Josh Chilton at (573) 226-3945 for more information. In the case of inclement weather, the clinic may be canceled.  Watch our Facebook page for updates.  For more information about the Riverways or other upcoming programs, call (573) 323-4236.

The Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District, in partnership with the City of Rolla, Environmental Services and the St. Robert Transfer Station, and funded in part by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, encourages the safe disposal of household hazardous waste-products containing ingredients harmful to human health and the environment. The collection centers are open to households in Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties. Examples of hazardous household items include: used oil, anti-freeze, batteries, CFL and fluorescent bulbs, toxic, poisonous or flammable chemicals and they NO LONGER ACCEPT LATEX PAINT. For more information in St. Robert call (573) 336-5155 or visit their website www.saintrobert.com and click the trash and recycle link or in Rolla at (573) 364-9568 or their website www.rollacity.org/recycle. Be sure and call ahead as these waste collections are by appointment only.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the courthouse. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles was not in attendance due to a previous commitment. District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell acted as Presiding Commissioner and gave the road report for District 1. He said grading was going to be done and materials would be added to Dent County Road 6630 and 6633, while patch grading and ditch work would be done on county roads 5530 and 5680. He went on to say brush was going to be cut on county roads 6500 and 6510. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson said patch grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2025, 2115 and 3130, brush was going to be cut on county road 3230 and two men would be hauling brown rock for screening. He stated a crew would be replacing a pipe on county road 3180 and another crew would be replacing missing roads signs on Dent County Roads 4040, 4260, 4300, 5240 and 5260. Both Commissioners Larson and Purcell said the county continues to have problem with road signs being stolen. Last year, it costs taxpayers $2,685.93 in sign costs alone and this year, that total from January to June is $1,061.50. These figures do not include the worker’s time to prepare and install the new signs. Commissioner Purcell said if anyone sees anyone damage or steal signs to please call the sheriff’s office at 729-3241. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said she was working on establishing tax rates for the tax rate hearing to be held in August. Dent County Sheriff Bob Wells was in attendance in response to an online article in the Salem News and wanted to clarify that it the building of a new jail is the first and major concern. If funds allow and his office and a courtroom can be added, that would be great, but a new jail is critical that will make it safer for officers and help his budget by not having to transport and pay for inmates at other facilities. At the last meeting, the board approved the unleaded fuel bid for the Road and Bridge Department from MFA for $1.75.5 per gallon. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Thursday morning at 9:00 and it is open to the public.

The 4-H and FFA Expo saw 73 head of market hogs and 13 breeding hogs exhibited during the Friday morning show. The nine market hog class winners were Gabe Chang, Koty Fenton, Anna McDaniel, Daylen Harrison, Kash Howard, Olivia Wisdom, Silas Wulff, Bekah Kirker and Londyn Cook. Judge Chris Hudson of Middletown Missouri selected Daylen Harrison’s 257 pound barrow as Grand Champion Market Hog and Kash Howard’s 266 pound gilt as Reserve Champion. In the commercial breeding stock, competition class winners were Wyatt Martin’s February gilt, Bailey Martin’s January gilt, and Camryn Pryor’s December gilt. Bailey’s was awarded Grand Champion and Wyatt’s gilt was Reserve Champion. The Showmanship competition was very competitive as 28 juniors age 8-12, seventeen intermediates age 13-15, and fourteen seniors age 16-19 put their skills on display. Juniors making it to the final drive were Corbett Ball, Landon Cook, Kennedy Major, Wyatt Martin, Courtney Miller, Preslie Strader, Alexis White and Olivia Wisdom. Judge Hudson congratulated Wyatt Martin as the Champion Junior Showman. In the Intermediate class, the final drive consisted of Jonah Case, Londyn Cook, Kaden Garrison, Allison Manthey, Katarina Morris, and Bailey Martin. The Martin family took home another championship ribbon with Bailey’s selection. Senior showmanship came down to a competition between Gabe Chang, Joe Hayes, Bekah Kirker and Camry Pryor, with Pryor being named Senior Showmanship Champion.

Friday afternoon’s 4-H and FFA Expo Sheep, Goat and Small Animal Shows had 20 head of sheep, 6 goats, 3 pens of meat chickens, 1 pen of meat rabbits, plus 13 breeding rabbits and 3 breeding chickens competing. Market lamb class winners were Alyssa Bowers, Londyn Cook and Ryker Major, with Ryker’s lamb being chosen as Champion and Londyn’s as Reserve Champion. In the breeding sheep competition, there was only one class of ewe lambs with Tyffany LuCerne’s two entries taking Champion and Reserve Champion. Shaylee Harrison won Senior Sheep Showmanship, Londyn Cook was named Intermediate Sheep Showman and Tyffany LuCerne took home the Junior Sheep Showmanship Award. In the Market Goat Show, Kaden Garrison and Brady Schafer exhibited the class winners. Kaden’s goat was selected as Champion and Kallen Garrison exhibited the Reserve Champion Market Goat. Showmanship awards in the goat division went to Junior Brady Schafer, Intermediate Kaden Garrison and Senior Kenadee Barnitz. The Small Animal Show Meat Chicken Pen Champion was Owen Meusch and Reserve Champion was Alaina Ferguson. Marissa Holloway exhibited the Champion and Reserve Champion buck rabbits, while Raven Gilliam had the Champion Doe and Airslie Fletcher showed the Reserve Champion Doe. Tyffany LuCerne exhibited both the Champion and Reserve Champion Hens. In the Poultry Showmanship Competition, the Junior winner was Tyffany LuCerne, The Intermediate Division was won by Alaina Ferguson, and Rachel Paul won the Senior Division. The Junior Rabbit Showmanship went to Marissa Holloway.

The Livestock Shows at the 4-H and FFA Expo culminated in the Cattle Show Friday afternoon and evening. Mariah Cramer’s Hereford Heifer was selected as Champion and Kenadee Barnitz’ Heredord was Reserve Champion Female. Ray Cunningham exhibited the Champion Hereford Bull, while Kenadee Barnitz showed the Reserve Champion. In the Commercial Heifer division, Kaden Garrison showed the champion, which was a Charolais influence heifer, while Brook Adams’ Angus influence heifer was selected as Reserve Champion. The Market Steer show saw Judge Chris Hudson select class winners exhibited by Brayden Headrick, Brooke Shults, Texas Nall, Brooke Adams and Ray Cunningham. The Championship went to Brooke Adams’ 1345 pound steer with Brett Fore’s 1310 pound steer being selected as Reserve Champion. Fourteen Juniors, 5 Intermediates and 10 Seniors competed in the Beef Showmanship competition. In the Junior Division, Ray Cunningham, Brayden Headrick, Clayton Headrick and Brady Schafer were selected for the final drive and Clayton Headrick won the award, while the Junior Division winner was Dylan Thompson. The Senior Division competition was intense among Kenadee Barnitz, Alyssa Bowers and Moriah Cramer, with Kenadee taking home the award.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education met Thursday night at the District Administrative Board Room. Superintendent John McCulloch announced the open house for William Lynch Elementary will be on Monday August 14th from 5:30-6:30, and that same evening at the Upper Elementary from 6:30-7:30. The open house at the High School will be on Tuesday, August 15th from 4:30-6:00 followed by the open house at the Middle School from 6:00-7:30. McColloch said the football field bathroom and locker room project will be rebid in October. He said an HVAC unit is out above the band room and bids are coming in for a new unit, plus an issue with some bricks at William Lynch will be fixed prior to school starting. McColloch said the new Tech Center in the high school library is close to completion and everything should be done in plenty of time for the start of school. The board approved the bid for milk from Hiland Dairy, the bread bid from Bimbo (Sara Lee), the food and supply bid from US Foods, the bid for fuel from County Fuels, and the pest control bid from Integrity Pest Solutions. They also set the tax rate hearing for August 17th at 5:50 p.m., to be followed by the regular August Board meeting. The board approved for Durham Transportation to provide bus services for the Early Childhood Special Education students, and approved the 6-12 Chromebook policy/handbook. In closed session, the board agreed to hire Lauren Prugh as a Kindergarten teacher before the meeting was adjourned.

The City of Salem Board of Alderman will conduct their regular meeting tonight at the City Hall Council Chambers located 202 North Washington beginning at 7:00 pm. During the hearing of persons, Randy League will be requesting the closing of streets around the courthouse for Saturday, September 9th for the annual car show and arts & crafts festival conducted by the Midwest Blue Oval Club. In bids, the city requested bids for a Kubota Zero Turn Mower for the Cemetery; the city also requested bids for 2 servers and a copier for the administrative office and all bids will be presented to the Board. City Clerk Mary Happel will present a trailer court license for the Board’s approval in unfinished business. City Administrator Ray Walden will then report on various current and future projects as well as discuss the city holiday pay policy and also discuss a policy on fund raising for city departments. Mayor Brad Nash will then present his report. During the introduction and reading of bills and resolutions, Bill #3335 an ordinance required in order to purchase property from the Wanda L. Parks Trust for a runway protection zone; Bill #3336, an ordinance to amend Ordinance #3333, changing the monthly commercial manufacturing averaging from 400,000 to 350,000 gallon of water per month and Bill #3337 an ordinance to authorize the Mayor to execute a contract between the City of Salem and MFA Cooperative Association for the sale of property will be presented to the Board’s approval. In new and miscellaneous business, the Board needs to call for a public tax rate hearing in order to set the tax rate for the year 2017 and the Salem Police Department will be requesting approval to apply for a LLEBG Grant. The Board may then vote to go into closed session to discuss real estate, contracts and personnel. The regular meeting of the City of Salem Board of Alderman is open to the public.

The Salem 4-H and FFA Livestock Auction was held Saturday at The Commons. A total of 104 animals were auctioned off including a pen of rabbits, two pens of chickens, one market goat, nine market lambs, 67 market hogs and 24 market steers. The auction brought in a total of $189,366.50. Top buyers at the auction this year were the Bank of Salem who purchased 12 animals comprised of seven hogs and five steers; Phil-Mart who purchased ten animals made up of one lamb, six hogs and three steers; Intercounty Electric who bought seven hogs; Town and County Bank and Jadwin Lumber who each purchased five animals comprised of one lamb, three hogs and one steer; Smith Valley Angus who bought five animals made up of three hogs and two steers; Salem Livestock who purchased four animals broken down into one lamb, two hogs and one steer; and Phelps County Regional Medical Center who bought two hogs and two steers. There were 47 different buyers on the initial sale and there were 11 resales with their proceeds donated to the Love Pack Backpack program, the 4-H Chapters in Dent County, Salem FFA and 4-H Council. The proceeds from the resales totaled $4,246.90.

An accident occurred at 6:25 Saturday morning in Jefferson County on southbound Route V just north of Brittany Lane that took the life a DeSoto resident. According to the highway patrol report, a 2002 Chevrolet Blazer driven by 22-year old Katherine Knox of Desoto was traveling southbound and traveled off the right side of the roadway. Knox then overcorrected and the Chevy Blazer overturned. Knox was pronounced dead 6:39 by Valle Ambulance District personnel and the body was transported to the St. Louis County Morgue and Schaefer Mortuary. A passenger, 21-year old Alonzo Moore, III of Salem suffered minor injuries and was taken to St. Anthony’s Medical Center by the Valle ambulance. No one was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Chevrolet Blazer was totaled and removed from the scene by T and T Towing.

Have you thought about having an art party for kids or adults as birthday party? It’s a perfect mix and the Salem Area Arts Council can accommodate up to 20 people for a party which would be led by a professional artist and would also include all the materials and a pitcher or two of lemonade. Group rates are available! For more information, call or text the Salem Area Arts Council at 573-247-0279 or you can e-mail saac@embarqmail.com.

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning at the courthouse. In road reports, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell reported that he had a crew that would be installing a new culvert, repairs would be performed on an existing culvert and materials would also be hauled to Dent County Road 5680. He said that patch grading would be done on county roads 5015 and 5220 while materials would be hauled to county road 5615. He went on to say that the patching of chip and seal would take place on Dent County Roads 4120, 4210 and 4243. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported that although he has a skeleton crew, brush would be cut on county road 3230 while materials would be hauled to Dent County Roads 3220 and 2115. Larson reported that Dent County Road 4060 is now open and any missing road signs would be replaced. Patching was also going to be done at the intersection of chip and seal road 6150 and gravel road 6160 as the apron where they meet has holes. He said that repairs would be done on truck #116 as it appears to be over charging. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles reported that he attended a meeting Tuesday with the staff from the MRPC, the Salem Community Center @ the Armory, City Administrator Ray Walden and the caterer in planning the awards banquet that will be held October 26th in Salem. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported that the 2017 Dent County assessment valuation came in at $167,383,430 and was up about 5.4% which is $9,098,331 over the 2016 assessment valuation of $158,285,099. She stated that representatives from SEMA and FEMA stopped by her office and dropped off applications for individual persons still needing to apply for assistance from the flooding late in April and early May or from the storm damage. For more information you call 1-800-621-3362 or go online to www.disasterassistance.gov. Commissioner Larson wanted to go on record as to clarify any misconceptions regarding the jail project. There were 2 propositions on the April ballot and both needed to pass in order for the county to proceed forward with the jail project. Proposition 1 stated, “Shall the County of Dent, Missouri impose a county wide sales tax at the rate of one-half of one percent for a period of twenty-one years from the date on which such tax is first imposed for the purpose of paying for the construction of a new jail for detention facilities and to the extent funds are available, construction of law enforcement administrative space and an additional courtroom? Collections for this Proposition are not to begin until the one-half of one percent sales tax of Proposition 2 is also approved.” Proposition 2 read the same as Proposition 1 and was contingent on Proposition 1 passing. The only difference between the two is that Prop 1 is for 21-years and Prop 2 is perpetual for the operation of the jail, with no sunset. Both propositions were passed by the voters of Dent County back in April. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open the public.

The Salem Police Department released their reports. On Thursday, July 13th at 10:37 pm, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The stop led to the arrest of a 30-year old Bunker female for driving while intoxicated and possession of marijuana as well as a 27-year old Bunker male for possession of marijuana. Both suspects were issued summonses to appear in court and released. On Friday, July 14th at 2:29 am, an officer located a 32-year old Salem male in the 600 block of West Fourth who had an active arrest warrant from Dent County. He was taken into custody on the warrant and incarcerated pending a court appearance. At 3:00 that afternoon, an officer was contacted at the station in reference to a theft investigation. The report revealed a 46-year old male of Steelville took money to do a tree trimming job and did not return to do the work. On Saturday, July 15th at 2:48 pm, an officer was detailed to a residence in the 800 block of East Hunt in reference to a theft. The report revealed someone unknown took a gold, 20-inch boys bicycle valued $100.00 from the yard of a residence. On Sunday, July 16th at 6:30 am, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference ti damage to vehicle tires. The report revealed someone unknown cut four wheel valve stems on a vehicle. At 2:37 that afternoon, an officer was contacted in reference to a theft. The report revealed someone unknown took a metal dog kennel from the carport of a residence in the 500 block of East Roosevelt. That evening at 5:09, an officer was detailed to a residence in the 1200 block of Jennifer in reference to a runaway juvenile. The report revealed a 12-year old Salem male juvenile had run away from home. Further investigation led to the detention of the juvenile who was later released to a parent. The report will be forwarded to the Juvenile Office. Then at 7:43, officers were conducting a narcotics investigation at a residence in the 1500 block of South Highway 19 that led to the arrest of a 31-year old Salem male for possession of methamphetamine. He was incarcerated pending an application for a warrant. On Tuesday, July 18th at 9:33 pm, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The stop led to the arrest of an 18-year old Salem male on an active arrest warrant from Dent County. He was later released after paying fines and court cost associated with the warrant. Late that night at 11:53, an officer responded to a residence in the 300 block of East Truman in reference to a theft. The report revealed a 30-year old Salem male had stolen a 32 inch Vizio television valued $200.00. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors met for the regular meeting Tuesday evening at the hospital library. Chief Financial Officer Monica Gargus gave the summary of operations for June that showed the hospital had a loss from operations of $186,361 with an excess of expenses over revenues of $183,000. Much of that loss came from an auditors’ adjustment of $250,000. Inpatient admissions were up from last month but below budget, while outpatient registrations were down from last month but over budget. The hospital also received an insurance rebate during the month. The cash flow statement showed a decrease in cash of $138,134 for the month with days in accounts receivable at 56. Chief Nursing Officer Debbie Hines reported during the month there were 59 acute care admissions, 722 emergency room visits with an average turnaround time of 125 minutes. Also during the month, there were 205 ambulance runs with 146 patients being transported to the hospital, 14 surgery services, 1,634 outpatient registrations, 229 home health visits, 9,357 lab tests, 1,051 radiological procedures, 233 CT scans, 32 MRI scans, 8 nuclear med scans, 688 rehab treatments, 149 dialysis treatments and 269 clinical visits. Hospital Administrator Kasey Lucas went over the Emergency Room quarterly surveys for April through June of 2017. A total of 191 surveys were returned and the results about the treatment patients received were at least 93% and 100% in most categories from being treated professionally as were the explanation of the findings by the doctor. The SMDH Family Medicine Clinic Survey results for the second quarter were also reviewed and they were excellent with 100% in every category. A total of 69 surveys were returned for the second quarter. In the Chief of Staff report, Courtesy Staff privileges were approved for psychiatrist Bun Tee Co, MD for Long Term Care who will do most of his interviews through Telehealth. The SMDH Foundation will have their “Dancing with the Salem Stars” event on December 9th. The hospital auxiliary will have their Masquerade and Jewelry Sale on August 31st and September 1st at the Dent County Fire Station. The board discussed and then approved sending the City of Salem a letter of intent to be added on their sewer system with the new expansion with a request to the city to assist them if possible, in the elimination of their lagoon. Administrator Lucas said the cost to close the lagoon could cost the hospital between $20,000 and $25,000. The board set the public tax meeting for Tuesday, August 22nd at 5:45 to set the tax llevy for the next year. The board also selected the new officers for the new fiscal year and they are A. J Seay as Chairman, George Gruendel as Vice-Chairman and Sue Terry as Secretary. The board approved the purchase of 25 thin client Dell computers from ParagonMicro for a total of $7,402 before going into closed session.

The 2017 4-H/FFA Expo continued thru Saturday, July 22nd at the Commons located on Highway 72 in Salem. Today the livestock weigh-ins begin at 12:30, Achievement Day events start at 5:00 pm and there will be family entertainment from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. Family entertainment will include frog jumping, youth relay races, the nickel scramble, a peewee stick horse race, chicken race, tug of war, turtle races and a pet fashion show. On Friday, July 21st the hog show starts at 7:00 am, the sheep/goat show will be at 1:30, the small animal show is at 3:00 and the beef/dairy show will be at 4:00. Family games will be from 7:00 to 9:00. Then on Saturday, July 22nd the FFA tractor pull will be start at 9:00 am with the Market Sale luncheon at noon followed by the 4-H/FFA market sale at 1:00 and will be broadcast live on KSMO 1340 AM. Everyone is invited out to the 2017 4-H/FFA Expo. Admission is free and there will also be a variety of food available from local food vendors.

As Missourians repair or rebuild their homes damaged by the flooding and severe storms that occurred April 28-May 11, 2017, FEMA and home improvement stores in the state are teaming up to provide free information, tips and literature on making homes stronger and safer. Federal Emergency Management Agency mitigation specialists will be on hand to answer questions and offer home improvement tips along with proven methods to prevent or reduce damage from future disasters as well as offer tips and techniques to build hazard-resistant homes. Most of the information and the free publications provided are geared to do-it-yourself work and general contractors. Recovery topics covered include flood insurance, elevating utilities and rebuilding flooded homes. FEMA advisors will be available at Meeks Lumber at 200 West 8th Street in Rolla today through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday, July 24th from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Tuesday morning, July 25th from 7:00 a.m. to noon.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will conduct their July meeting tonight in the boardroom beginning at 6:00 pm. After approval or the agendas and communications, Superintendent John McColloch will update the Board with the open house dates and times and he will also be giving an update on facilities projects. In new business, the Board will be approving bids for milk, bread, food and supply, fuel and pest control for the upcoming school year. The Board will then set a tax rate hearing and well as their regular August Board meeting date. The Board will be considering the Dent County Preschool Transportation Agreement and a Chromebook Policy/Handbook. The Board may then vote to go into closed session for the purpose of discussing personnel. The July meeting of the Salem R-80 Board of Education is open to the public.