Local News

An accident happened in Phelps County on Phelps County Road 4160 about 9 ½ miles southeast of Rolla that left a woman from Salem with serious injuries. According to the highway patrol report, a 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser driven westbound by 61-year old Cynthia Scritchfield of Salem, lost control of the Cruiser and it crossed the center line striking head-on a 1997 GMC Sierra driven eastbound by 48-year old Paulette Moreland of Cook Station. Scritchfield suffered serious injuries and was taken by Mercy Lifeline Helicopter to Mercy Hospital in Springfield. Moreland suffered moderate injuries and was taken by the Phelps County Ambulance to the Phelps County Region Medical Center. Scritchfield was not wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident and Moreland was. The PT Cruiser and Sierra were both totaled. The PT Cruiser was removed from the scene by Dishman’s Towing while the Sierra was taken away by Spurgeon’s Towing.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released some reports. On Wednesday, July 12th, deputies responded to the 800 block of County Road 6400 for a report of a domestic disturbance. As a result, 55-year old Tammy Inman of Salem was arrested for Domestic Assault 4th Degree. She was taken to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, fingerprinted, and released with a summons to appear in court. On Friday, July 14th, deputies responded to the 700 block of County Road 6620 for a report of a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival, deputies arrested 52-year old Raymond Williams of Licking. Williams had a warrant from Dent County for Domestic Assault 3rd Degree. He was taken to the Dent County Jail and is being held on a $7,000 cash only bond. On Saturday, July 15th, deputies conducted a traffic stop at Route K and Highway 19. As a result of the stop, 20-year old Tristan Gaddy of Salem was arrested for DWI – Drugs. He was issued 5 citations and released. If you have any information about any ongoing investigation, please call the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

The Salem Police Department released a number of reports. On Monday, July 10th at 6:54 pm, an officer was detailed to a residence in the 300 block of East Bryon in reference to property damage. The report revealed someone unknown broke the back glass valued $200.00 out of a white 2004 Nissan Altima. On Tuesday, July 11th at 11:31 pm, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The stop led to the arrest of a 26-year old Salem female for driving while suspended. She was issued a summons to appear in court and released. Wednesday, July 12th at 1:53 in the early morning, an officer was detailed to a residence in the 700 block of West Virginia in reference an intoxicated male causing a disturbance. The report revealed an intoxicated 53-year old Salem male was attempting to gain entry to a residence where he was not welcome. He was sprayed with mace by the resident and continued to cause a disturbance. He was taken into custody for disorderly conduct, issued a summons to appear in court and later released to the Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health Center for treatment. Call the Salem Police Department at 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

The new 2017-2018 Official Missouri State Highway Map is now available! The map features brighter colors and stronger paper to make it both easier to read and more durable. Also, new interstate interchanges and exit numbers have been added since the last published edition in 2013. The map shows Missouri’s 33,873-mile highway system and is distributed free of charge. The location of truck parking along the interstates is now designated on the map and legend. Missouri State Parks have been updated and include the new Rock Island spur of the Katy Trail. The location of Missouri Conservation Management Areas and National Fish and Wildlife Areas are new to this map. The Kansas City inset map now shows the KC Streetcar line with stations. Other information includes easy-to-locate emergency telephone numbers, reminders about some of Missouri’s traffic laws and contact information for the Missouri State Highway Patrol and Missouri Department of Transportation district offices. The map also marks historic sites, hospitals, airports, Amtrak stations, colleges and universities. The cover of the map features a night shot of Kansas City’s magnificent Bartle Hall, a gem in the crown of the city skyline. On the back, the map also features the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, a national icon which opened to the public 50 years ago. To request a free map contact MoDOT at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (888) 275-6636.

On Monday morning, the Dent County Commission met at the Dent County Courthouse. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell stated that ditch work was going to be done on Dent County Road 6515 to install a crossover pipe. He said brush would be cut on Dent County Roads 4150, 4155, 4157 and 6510 and one crew member is going to be picking up a load of material for chip and seal repair on Dent County Road 4220. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson indicated that although it is getting very dry, work crews will be grading on Dent County Roads 4280 and 6160 while materials will be added and grading done on county road 3220. He also said materials would be added to county roads 4060 and 4290 and brush was going to be cut on Dent County Roads 3220 and 3233. Larson went on to say Dent County Road 4060 would remain closed through Thursday as the crew has finished pouring the concrete for the new low water crossing, but they still have to move the dirt and materials back around the road and the crossing. Larson went on to report that later this week, workers will be rebuilding and working on Private Drive 401 to get it ready to be given a new County Road number. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said he would be meeting today at the Salem Community Center@The Armory with members from the Meramec Regional Planning Commission to make plans for the MRPC Annual Awards Banquet to be held in October. Steve Davis from Shive-Hatterly Engineers and Nick Smith from Septagon Construction Management discussed a number of building options with the commissioners for the Jail and Justice Center project from a three story justice center with underground parking, to basically just the jail with a shell for further expansion of the Dent County Sheriff’s Office or courtrooms. From the current jail bid project in Webster County, they had numbers for the commissioners that showed the jail project alone could cost about $12.3 million dollars. There were a number of assumptions made in calculating those numbers according to Smith since the grade level of this project is different with a 30 foot drop from the southwest corner to the northeast corner that can add to the cost per square foot, other specialization costs and more. Both men said they would go back to look at the design to see if there some areas for cost savings measures that could be found that would include all the “must haves” of the jail. The next meeting of the commissioners will be Thursday morning at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

An accident occurred at 10:30 Saturday night, July 15th in Shannon County on county road 367-B about 15 miles south of Salem. According to the highway patrol report, a 1993 Ford F150 driven by 19-year old Jason Piatt of Salem was driving in a field in circles, when he failed to notice a tree and struck the tree causing a passenger, 17-year old Heath Ball of Salem, riding in the bed of the truck to strike his head on the truck. Ball suffered minor injuries and was transported by private vehicle to the Salem Hospital. No one was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Ford F150 sustained minor damage and was driven from the scene.

An accident occurred at 3:20 early Sunday morning in Gasconade County on Highway 19 about 74 feet south of East Franklin Street in Owensville. According to the highway patrol report, a 2006 Nissan Sentra driven by 23-year old Jacob Clonts of Steelville was traveling southbound and attempted to make a left turn where a left turn was not present. The Nissan Sentra traveled off the left side of the roadway and struck a telephone box. Clonts suffered minor injuries and received treatment on scene. He was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Nissan Sentra sustained moderate damage and was towed by Triple L Towing of Owensville.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors will conduct their July tonight in the hospital library beginning at 6:00 pm. After approval of the minutes from the June 20th meeting, Chief Financial Officer Monica Gargus will update the Board with the summary of operations and statistics reports for June followed by Chief Nursing Officer Debbie Hines report. Hospital Administrator Kasey Lucas will then give reports on the hospital foundation as well as auxiliary activities. In old business, the Board will address the City of Salem water/sewer expansion. During new business the Board will discuss purchases made of the hospital, there will be the election of officer’s and the Board will then set a public tax meeting for August 22nd beginning at 5:45 pm. The Board may vote to go into closed session. The July meeting of the Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors is open the public.

On Friday morning, Govenor Eric Greitens announced more Missouri homeowners, renters and businesses, and local government agencies can receive vital federal disaster assistance after the Federal Emergency Management Agency approved his request to expand the federal disaster declaration for spring flooding and severe storms in Missouri. FEMA has approved the Governor’s request to expand assistance to eligible homeowners, renters and businesses in Christian, Crawford, Dent, Greene, Iron, Ste. Genevieve, Wayne and Wright counties. Homeowners and renters who sustained damage or losses due to the flooding and severe storms can register for disaster assistance by calling the FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week, or by going online to www.DisasterAssistance.gov. Homeowners, renters and businesses are urged to apply quickly as the FEMA deadline to apply for assistance is August 1st. In all, more than $71 million in payments – including FEMA grants, National Flood Insurance Program payments to policyholders and U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest loans – has now flowed into Missouri, helping fuel the recovery of Missouri families. SEMA is now working to schedule regional state Applicant Briefings to inform county and municipal governments; public water, sewer and other special districts; and nonprofit agencies of the FEMA Public Assistance application process. Meeting notifications will be made once the briefing schedule has been set. Disaster Unemployment Assistance is now available in Crawford, Dent, Iron, Wayne and Wright counties because of FEMA designation of those counties in the disaster declaration. Claimants must file by August 14th by calling their Regional Claims Center Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., or online at uinteract.labor.mo.gov. Beginning July 17, 2017, all private water samples received at the Missouri State Public Health Laboratory for bacteriological testing will require the normal $10.00 handling fee in order to be approved for testing. Visit Recovery.mo.gov for more flood recovery resources. The site is updated daily.

The Salem Police Department released a number of reports. On Thursday, July 6th at 10:04 in the morning, an officer received a report of a sexual assault. The investigation of the report revealed that a 14-year-old male juvenile of Salem had sexually assaulted a 5 year-old female juvenile of Salem. Further investigation led to the detention of the male who was later released to his parents. The investigation was turned over to the Juvenile Office. That evening at 5:15, an officer was conducting a theft investigation in the 600 block of South Jackson. During the investigation, a 22-year old Salem female was found to be in possession of heroin and drug paraphernalia. She was placed under arrest and later released to go to a treatment facility pending the application for warrants. On Sunday afternoon, July 9th at 12:05, an officer was detailed to a residence in the 1000 block of West Ellis in reference to theft from a vehicle. The report revealed someone unknown took a stereo unit valued at $90.00 from a red 2005 Pontiac Grand Am. That same night at 10:19, an officer transported a 26-year old Rolla female from the Phelps County Jail to the Dent County Jail due to an active arrest warrant from the City of Salem. She was incarcerated pending a court appearance. Also on Sunday, July 9th at 10:41 at night, an officer transported a 34-year old male of St. Louis from the St. Francis County Sheriffs Department to the Dent County Jail due to an active arrest warrant from the City of Salem. He was incarcerated pending a court appearance. Call the Salem Police Department at 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

A new shower house will be installed in the Alley Spring Campground next week starting today. In order to ensure visitor and staff safety while heavy equipment and large trucks are on site for installation, most of the campground will be closed temporarily beginning at noon today. The 100 and 200 Loops will remain open during installation, and the entire campground is expected to re-open by the evening of Wednesday, July 19. During the temporary closure, access through the campground to the Bluff Hole swimming area will also be restricted. The new shower house is a CXT Concrete Building unit, a pre-fabricated concrete structure which is assembled on-site, requiring heavy equipment for installation. CXT structures are very durable for long-term use in an area prone to flooding. Following the initial on-site installation, park staff will need several days to complete final installation steps and ready the shower house for public use. For more information, contact 573-323-4236.

The Bonebrake Center of Nature and History will present “Mother Goose is Going Buggy” on Tuesday, July 18, starting at 6:30 p.m. Mother Goose will be sharing information about the world of insects and arachnids, the good, bad and ugly! This program is especially designed for toddlers, preschoolers, and up to early elementary school-aged children. The cost is $1.00 per person or $5.00 for the whole family. Phone reservations are requested to plan for snacks and activities. Please call the Bonebrake Center (573.729.3400) or e-mail at bonebrakecenter@embarqmail.com.

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning at the courthouse. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell stated grading would be done on Dent County Roads 5420 and 6370 while tree limbs would be trimmed on Dent County Road 4120. Purcell went on to say brush would be cut on county roads 4210, 6300 and 6303 while materials would be added and spread on Dent County Road 5060. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported his entire crew would be working on the low water crossing on Dent County Road 4060 ad they will be using 18 yards of concrete. Larson said county road 4060 would be closed until next Thursday, July 20th to allow the concrete to cure. He said the county doesn’t want to take any chances of a larger truck going over the low water crossing before it is completely set up and damaging the new crossing. Larson appreciates everyone’s’ patience in this matter. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said Monday the City of Salem Planning and Zoning Commission approved their request to close Iron and water Streets from 5th Street to Rolla Road for the new Jail and Justice Center project, and made their recommendation to the Board of Aldermen. The Aldermen also approved the request with the stipulation the city retains the water and sewer easements on Iron Street. An ordinance will be drawn up that will be approved at the next meeting. Skiles also had a Quit-Claim Deed for Max and LaWanna Inman that was approved by Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Curley and the Commission agreed to sign to relinquish any interest they would have with the property that was used to improve approaches when the work on Highway 72 was done. The commissioners left the building to have the Quit-Claim Deed notarized. At 10:30, Commissioners Purcell and Larson had a conference call with FEMA to discuss the improvements made to the roads from the washouts from the flooding and set up a time they can come and visit. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Salem Police Department released reports involving property damage, a shoplifter, drug use, and theft from a vehicle. On Monday, July 3rd at 12:51 in the early morning, an officer located a 32-year old Salem female at a residence in the 900 block of South Oak who had active arrest warrants from Dent County, Crawford County, Franklin County and Phelps County. She was taken into custody on the warrants and incarcerated pending a court appearance and extradition. Later that morning at 11:22, an officer was detailed to a residence in the 500 block of South Jackson in reference to property damage and a theft. The investigation of the report revealed someone unknown broke the door glass out of a vehicle valued at $100.00 and took a gaming console valued at $599.00. The report is under investigation. That night at 8:03, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The report led to the arrest of a 28-year old Salem female for stealing merchandise valued at $27.92. She was issued a summons to appear in court and released. On Tuesday night, July 4th at 11:49, an officer responded to a residence in the 400 block of East Ninth in reference to someone using drugs who would not leave the residence. The report led to the arrest of a 20-year old Salem male for possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia and on an active fugitive arrest warrant from Crawford County, Missouri. He was incarcerated pending the application for warrants and extradition. On Wednesday, July 5th at 4:02 in the afternoon, a vehicle was stopped for an arrest warrant investigation. The investigation led to the arrest of a 46-year old Salem male on an active arrest warrant from Dent County and a 47-year old Salem male on an active arrest warrant from Texas Department of Criminal Justice in Austin, Texas. Both were incarcerated pending a court appearance and extradition. On Thursday morning, July 6th at 8:47, an officer was detailed to a residence in the 500 block of South Jackson in reference to theft from a vehicle. The report revealed someone unknown took items valued at $728.00 from a black 2000 Ford truck parked in the driveway of a residence. Further investigation led to the arrest of a 27-year old Salem male for the theft. He was issued a summons to appear in court and released. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

An accident occurred at 8:35 Tuesday night in Phelps County on Highway F about eight miles southeast of Rolla. According to the highway patrol report, a 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan driven by 36-year old Nicholas Fazzio of Rolla was traveling westbound and attempted to avoid a deer in the roadway. The Kawasaki struck the deer and slid off the roadway. Fazzio suffered minor injuries and refused treatment, while a passenger, 36-year old Laura Picker of St. James suffered moderate injuries and was taken by ambulance to the Phelps County Regional Medical Center. The Kawasaki sustained minor damage and was driven from the scene.

Naturally Meramec is a movement in the Missouri Meramec Region that works to capture the uniqueness of the region in the eight-county region including Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski, and Washington Counties making it a destination. This is accomplished by promoting local products and services and assisting small agriculture, tourism and culinary businesses through collective marketing efforts, education, training and technical assistance. You can become a member of Naturally Meramec. It’s free! Call Connie Willman at 573-578-6712 for more information.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors held their July meeting Tuesday evening at the fire station. After approval of the agenda and the minutes from the previous meeting, bills were reviewed and approved. The budget was reviewed as was their calendar of upcoming events. The monthly reimbursement report showed a total of 22 calls came in for the month of June. There were three calls for structure fires, one call for a car fire, one call for a landing zone, six calls for first responders, six calls for vehicle accidents, one call for haz-mat, two calls for training and two other calls for which one was for carbon monoxide and the other was for a search and rescue. The total calls year to date is 150. In old business the CDBG grant is still out because of the deadline change and the USDA grant is in question due to Washington red tape. There was no new business and the Board then set their August meeting for Tuesday, August 1st at the fire station beginning at 6:00 pm. The meeting was then adjourned.

Healthy Dent County will be holding a Summer Camp for all boys and girls age 8-12 at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory located 1200 West Rolla Road, from July 24th through the 28th from 8:00 in the morning until 5:00 in the afternoon. The youngsters will be understanding the local food system, gain cooking skills, learn new recipes, expand their knowledge of local resources, learn new exercises and ways to be physically active as well as having a bunch of fun. The cost is $100 per child and a healthy lunch and 2 snacks are included in the price. For more information call 729-8163 or register online at hdcsummercamp.eventbrite.com.

Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) now offers an all-online hunter-education course for Missouri residents 16 years or older to provide a more flexible and convenient option to become hunter-education certified. The all-online course includes videos and animation to teach hunter safety, firearm safety, ethics, regulations, and wildlife management. Students will receive a temporary hunter-education certificate once they complete and pass the 60-question final exam with an 80% or higher. Individuals 15 years or younger are still required to complete the blended hunter education course requiring both a knowledge portion and in-person skills session to receive certification. Missouri’s hunter education course is required for any hunter born on or after January 1, 1967. Hunters who plan to hunt during a Missouri firearms season or are acting as an adult mentor must first complete an approved hunter-education certification program and provide proof of completion unless: 15 years of age or younger and will be hunting with a properly permitted adult mentor 18 or older; born before January 1, 1967. Disability exemption from MDC’s Protection Division for 16 years of age or older and have purchased an apprentice hunter authorization and will be hunting with a property permitted adult mentor 18 or older. Landowner or lessee hunting on self-owned land or land of residence. Learn more about MDC’s hunter education program at mdc.mo.gov.

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 14th, July 21st, 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 questions, contact the park at (573) 751-1224 or (573) 323-4235.

The Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District (ORSWMD) is accepting grant applications for the 2018 grant round. Grant applications are due by noon on Friday, August 18th. A workshop to fully explain the grant application requirements and what an award of an Ozark Rivers grant will entail is scheduled from 10:00 AM to noon on Wednesday, July 26th at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) office, 4 Industrial Drive in St. James. This workshop ensures that potential grantees know the benefits and obligations should they receive funding for their projects. While the exact figure is not yet known, the board expects to award approximately $160,000 in grants that help reduce the amount of waste going to landfills. Funds are available for businesses, schools, non-profit organizations, counties and cities that will: Develop new or improve recycling programs that will reduce the generation of solid waste; create new markets or improve markets for recovered materials, or improve the handling of items banned by MO law from landfills. In its most recent grant round, ORSWMD awarded $200,729 to fund or partially fund 11 projects throughout the seven-county area. These projects included education programs, illegal dump cleanups throughout the region, school and city recycling programs, continued support of the household hazardous waste collection sites in Rolla and St. Robert and special collections for electronics, appliances and tires. The grant dollars awarded by Ozark Rivers comes through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and represent a portion of the landfill tipping fees collected in the district. The grant application is available online at www.ozarkrivers.org. For more information, contact Jill Hollowell at (573) 265-2993.

This Saturday at the Salem City Park Playground, there will be a Rock ‘n’ Roll, Walk ‘n’ Roll fun run starting at 7:00 to help benefit the City of Salem’s new All-Inclusive Playground that will be constructed soon next to the current playground. Registration will begin at 6:00. For children up to 18 years of age, the cost is $15.00 and for adults, the cost is $25.00. For more information or to register, please contact Kim Shelton at 729-8163 or you can register online at https://runwalkroll.eventbrite.com. You can also stop by the Salem Community Center @The Armory at 1200 West Rolla Road.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department released reports for the first few days of July involving a shot fired, traffic stops and theft. On Saturday, July 1st, deputies responded to a report of a shot fired at a residence in the 8000 block of Route K. Deputies observed where a bullet had penetrated the front railing, struck a lantern, and dented the wood siding. Residents described a black Chevy Tahoe as a vehicle stopped in the roadway as it occurred. They observed two shirtless males in the vehicle as well and the report is still under investigation. On Sunday, July 2nd, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Highway 72 at Route J. As a result, 24-year old Britta Terrill of Salem was arrested for driving while intoxicated. After her arrest, Terrill was found to be in possession of a small blue pill. Deputies identified the pill to be Alprazolam 1 milligram, a controlled substance. She was taken to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. She was charged with possession of a controlled substance and given a $10,000 cash only bond. On that same day, deputies responded to a residence on Highway YY for a report of a stolen wallet. The victim stated that his wallet was taken from the hood of a truck parked at the residence. A neighbor told deputies they noticed a red Chevy Tahoe or Blazer, between a 1992-1995 model year, drive past the house, stop suddenly, and pull into the driveway. Two men exited the vehicle and walked over to the driver’s side of the truck and then left. The neighbor described the two males as shirtless with tattoos on their arms and the driver walked with a limp. This report is still under investigation. That same day, deputies took a report of stolen game cameras on county road 2300. The suspect also damaged the man’s ground blind by tearing off some of the netting. This report is still under investigation. Later on that day deputies conducted a traffic stop in the Phil-Mart parking lot. As a result, 46-year old Jerry Cottrell of Salem was arrested for driving while suspended. He was taken to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, fingerprinted, issued summons, and released. Anyone with any information regarding any ongoing investigation is asked to call the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 729-3241.

An accident occurred at 3:30 early Tuesday morning in Texas County on Highway 63 about seven miles north of Houston. According to the highway patrol report, a 2009 Nissan Versa driven by 26-year old Ashley Mendenhall of Salem was traveling southbound and struck a deer in the roadway. Mendenhall suffered minor injuries and was taken by private vehicle to the Texas County Memorial Hospital. The Nissan sustained moderate damage and was towed by Jay’s Towing.

The Salem Police Department released reports involving traffic violations, damage to private property, a disturbance and a shoplifter.
On Thursday evening, June 29th at 10:22, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The stop led to the arrest of a 40-year old Salem female for driving while being intoxicated, driving while having her license suspended, possession of a controlled substance and on an active arrest warrant from the State of Missouri. She was incarcerated pending the application for warrants and extradition. On Saturday, July 1st at 1:42 in the early morning, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The stop led to the arrest of a 32-year old male of Desloge for driving while being intoxicated and driving while having his license revoked. A 30-year old male passenger of the vehicle was also placed under arrest for possession of a controlled substance. The 32-year old male was issued summonses to appear in court and released. The 30-year old male was incarcerated pending the application for a warrant. Later that same morning at 9:50, an officer was detailed to a residence in the 700 block of South Pershing in reference to damage to private property. The report revealed that a person or persons unknown broke the side rear cargo glass valued at $100.00 on a blue 2002 Ford Escape. The report is under investigation. On Sunday, July 2nd at 1:40 in the early morning, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 400 block of East First Street in reference to a disturbance. The report led to the arrest of a 22-year old Salem male on an active arrest warrant from Dent County. He was incarcerated on the warrant pending a court appearance. That evening at 6:14, an officer responded to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The report led to the arrest of a 46-year old Salem male for stealing merchandise valued at $37.60 and trying to return it for cash. He was issued summonses to appear in court and released. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

With temperatures rising across mid-Missouri this summer, sections of roadway may begin to buckle and crack due to the hot temperatures. The so-called “blow-ups” occur when the roadway surface expands at a crack or joint where moisture has seeped in. That crack weakens the pavement and the heat causes the pavement to buckle and warp. While it is difficult to predict where or when a pavement blow-up will happen, Missouri Department of Transportation crews monitor state routes during the summer months for possible problem areas. Central District Maintenance Engineer Jason Shafer is encouraging motorists to call when they encounter a pavement blow-up, so it can be fixed quickly. Motorists can call MoDOT’s toll-free customer service center at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) to report pavement blow-ups.

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.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse and heard from Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams on sales tax revenues received. She stated that monies received in July for General Revenue came to $71,274.12 and so far year-to-date, sales tax revenues are down $4,100.83. Last year, the sales taxes received in July were $69,594.89. Williams also gave the sales tax revenues for the Road and Bridge Fund for July and they came in at $32,872.26. That is slightly higher than the July 2016 figure of $32,799.16. She said year-to-date the fund is up $162.92 from last year. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell stated grading was going to be done on Dent County Roads 2400, 5150, 5550, 5600, and 6050. He went on to report brush would be cut on county roads 4110 and 6180 and possibly 6150 if time permits. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson stated grading was going to be done on Dent County Roads 5200 and 5225 while materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 2070. He added that brush was going to be cut on county road 3220 and a tree was removed from county road 2055. Larson wanted to let the public know that Dent County Road 4060 would be closed for at least a week for the road crews to rebuild a low water crossing that has been washed out by the rains. The low water crossing will be blocked off to all traffic. The next meeting of the commission will be Thursday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

If you are looking to get back into the workforce or have never tried to find a job, you should attend REJOBS. REJOBS is a re-entry job success workshop that will be held this Wednesday at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory located 1200 West Rolla Road from 9:00 in the morning until 4:00 in the afternoon with an hour lunch break. Activities will include establishing career paths for re-entering job seekers, preparing a letter of explanation for communicating your background, do a completed resume interviewing practice, discuss work opportunity tax credits, training & education resource; discuss the federal bonding program, talk about criminal background information, attempt to identify jobs that match your interests and work values as well as getting your national career readiness certification. The workshop is FREE, and for more information or to register stop by or call Kelsey at 729-8163.

In the Rolla Post Office incident Sunday in Rolla, the gunman was identified as Benedict Benito, an employee of the post office. There was no apparent motive for his actions. Benito had no prior criminal history and no history of mental illness. Law enforcement and first responders who came together to assist Rolla Police Department included the Missouri S&T University Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop I, the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, and the Rolla Fire Department.

The Salem Police Department will conduct a storm sirens test on Wednesday, July 12th at 10:00 am, weather permitting. The storm sirens will not be tested if there are any systems moving in or it appears weather conditions are ominous.

The Salem Board of Aldermen met Monday evening at the city hall council chambers. The board approved the request from Grace Community Church to close Water Street from Franklin Street to the end of their parking lot on Saturday, July 22nd from 8:00 AM until 1:00 PM, Sunday, September 17th from 8:00 AM until 4:00 PM and on Tuesday, October 31st from 4:00 to 9:00 PM for Trunk or Treat. The board heard from Tammy Walker from Heartland Metal and how the new rates would be affecting her business. She said they use about 525,000 gallons a month and in May of 2015 their bill was $865.69 and that went up to $1,056 in June of 2015. If passed the new charge for 525,000 gallons would be $1,312.50 or a 52% increase from May of 2015. Their sewer rates are even worse going from $651 in May of 2015 to $1,581 in June of 2015 and if the ordinance is passed, their sewer bill would be $2,063.25 which comes to a 217% increase. She knows that an increase in rates was needed, but these increases are too steep and could drive them out of Salem or out of business. She said they currently have 20 employees and one shift. Walker said 30 years ago it was the attractive water and sewer rates that brought Heartland Metal to Salem and wouldn’t be ironic if the rates were to force them to leave. The board approved the bid from T & R Electric for 37.5 KVA Polemount Transformers for 568.00 each, and for both types of 50 KVA Polemount transformers, for $694.00 each. The board approved the bid to purchase Class 2, 40-foot utility poles from Bridgewell Resources from Dierks, Arkansas for $320 each. City Attorney William Camm Seay presented the Planning and Zoning Commission report and he said they recommended to approve the request from the Dent County Commission to close Water and Iron Streets from Rolla Road to 5th Street with the city retaining utility easement rights. The board approved the recommendation. City Administrator Ray Walden said the feedback on the 4th of July Parade and Fireworks was positive. He wanted to thank Healthy Dent County and the county commissioners for selling lanterns and collecting donations that totaled $700 toward next year’s fireworks display. Walden said the city is in the process of reposting the position of Economic Development Director for the City of Salem with the addition of the $5,000 from the IDA Board and $5,000 from the Dent County Commission. He also reminded everyone the next Alderman meeting would be Monday, July 24th at 7:00. The board heard Bill #3333 which would create an ordinance establishing rates for water and sewer services, and after some discussion, Alderman Chad Heithold wanted to amend the Bill on Section 1, subsection “F” to remove the word “annually” and reduce the gallons from 400,000 to 350,000. The board also wants to look into rates of other cities for large water users. There was no new information on the trailer court licenses as the Park Street Park has still not applied and the park at 701 East Center was not approved by the aldermen. The board approved the buying of a rebuilt motor and pump for the Al Brown Field Lift Station for $6,470 from Evans Enterprises. Each lift station has two motors and pumps so the lift station is still operating. Alderman Heithold suggested embossing our pumps so we know that Salem is getting their pump back and not some other pump. The meeting was then adjourned.

A standoff occurred Sunday at the Rolla Post Office as a gunman walked in and took three hostages at near 1:30 in the afternoon. The gunman was reportedly an overnight employee of the post office. The hostages were reported later removed from the building unharmed. During the standoff, Rolla Chief of Police Sean Fagin indicated that the gunman was threatening to kill himself. When the law enforcement officials entered the building later, the gunman, whose identity had not been released at print time, was found dead from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot.

The City of Salem Planning & Zoning Commission will conduct a meeting, called by Chairman Gary Brown, tonight at the City Hall Council Chambers located 202 North Washington beginning at 6:30 pm. The purpose of the meeting is a request by the Dent County Commission about using Water and Iron Streets in Salem for their new jail and justice center project. The City of Salem Board of Alderman will then conduct their regular meeting starting at 7:00 pm. During the hearing of persons, Christa Barnes with the Grace Community Church is requesting permission to block off Water Street from the south end of their parking lot to the corner of Water and Franklin for the purpose of a community outreach to be held on Saturday, July 22nd from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm; Sunday, September 17th from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm; and on Tuesday, October 31st from 4:00 to 9:00 pm. Also during the hearing of persons, Tammy Walker wishes to talk to the Board concerning the city’s water and sewer rates. Then in bids, City Administrator Ray Walden will be presenting bids for five 37.5 KVA single phase pole mount transformers, six 50 KCA single phase pole mount transformers and ten 50 KVS single phase pole mount transformers. He will also present bids for a load of utility poles Class 2, 40-foot in length. Gary Brown, Chairman of the Planning & Zoning Board, will report to the Board the results of their meeting held prior to the Alderman meeting. Walden will then report on various items concerning the City of Salem as will Mayor Brad Nash. During the introduction and reading of bills and resolutions, Bill # 3333 an ordinance required to set the new water and sewer rates will be presented for the Board’s approval. In new and miscellaneous business, City Clerk Mary Happel will present a trailer court license renewal for the Board’s approval and Water and Sewer Superintendent Emory will present a bill for over $3,000 to repair a pump at the lift station for the Board’s approval. The Board may then vote to go into closed session. The meeting of the Planning & Zoning Commission and the City of Salem Board of Alderman are both open to the public.

An accident occurred at 1:05 Saturday morning on Dent County Road 6510 about fourteen miles south of Salem. According to the highway patrol report, a 2000 Lincoln LS, driven by 31-year old Lendsey Phillips of Salem, ran off the left side of the roadway, struck a fence and a tree before returning to the roadway. According to the report, neither Phillips of a passenger in the vehicle, 23-year old Sierra Jordan of Salem, were wearing their seat restraints. Jordan suffered minor injuries and refused treatment at the scene, while Phillips injuries were unknown as he fled the scene after the accident. The Lincoln was totaled and removed from the scene by Whitaker Towing.

The National Weather Service (NWS) and the Missouri Department of Senior Services wants to remind everyone that the hottest days of the summer season are approaching soon and how you prepare for those days are very important. Here are some safety tips to help you deal with the excessive heat: drink plenty of water and natural fruit juices, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid alcoholic beverages and drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and colas. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. If you must go out, use sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat. Remember that sunburn reduces the skin’s ability to provide cooling. Avoid going out during the hottest times of the day. Take frequent breaks if working during the heat of the day. Using a buddy system between co-workers in high heat-stress jobs can help ensure that signs of heat stress do not go unnoticed. Inside during the day, keep shades drawn and blinds closed. Use air conditioning whenever available. Even just two hours per day in air conditioning can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illness. Fans should only be used in a ventilated room. Blow hot air out a window with a fan during the day, and blow in cooler air at night. Take cool (not icy cold) baths or showers. Eat frequent, small meals. Avoid high protein foods, which increase metabolic heat. Fruits, vegetables, and salads constitute low protein meals. Do not leave children or pets in a closed vehicle with the windows up. Temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach over 140 degrees within minutes. Provide extra water and access to a cool environment for pets.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol arrested 42-year old Charles Walker of Viburnum Friday afternoon in Iron County. Walker was arrested for a felony charge of possession of methamphetamines, two felony charges of being in possession of a controlled substance, a felony charge for the unlawful use of a weapon, a charge for the unlawful use of drug paraphernalia, as well as for a misdemeanor warrant from Dent County for failure to appear on a charge of receiving stolen property. He was incarcerated in the Iron County Jail.

The Dent County Commissioners met for their regular meeting Thursday morning in the Dent County Courthouse. Denita Williams, Dent County Treasurer, was in with Payment In Lieu of Taxes, also known as PILT. Dent County received the one time of year payment of $150,416.00, which compared to $136,490.00 in 2016. In the road report District One Commissioner Dennis Purcell reported that rain Wednesday in his district was over 4.2 inches so his crews were out checking for washouts. He added that he received two calls for trees down on Dent County Roads 5080 and 5400. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson reported that materials would be added and grading would be done to trouble spots on Dent County Roads 4050 and 3370, plus materials would be added to county road 2070. He noted that the front tires were being changed on Truck #124 and that his crews were also checking for washouts. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles reported that he did preside over Monday’s HUD Public Housing Authority hearing. Skiles again reiterated that participants must read and follow their contract, plus they should be very careful who they allow in the home or vehicle as a drug possession charge of a guest or occupant will result in voiding of the contract. He also noted that Thursday afternoon the Board of Equalization would meet. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported that she balanced with the County Collector and County Treasurer on monthly collections, add-ons and abatements for the month of June. Curley noted that bills were being approved for payment. The next meeting of the Commissioners is Monday morning in the Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The City of Salem Planning & Zoning Commission will conduct a meeting, called by Chairman Gary Brown, on Monday, July 10th at the Salem City Hall Council Chambers located 202 North Washington beginning at 6:30 pm. The purpose of the meeting is to address a request by the Dent County Commission concerning Water and Iron Streets in Salem that would be used for the new jail project. The meeting of the City of Salem Planning & Zoning Commission is open to the public.

An accident occurred at 9:05 pm on Saturday, June 17th in Salem on Askins at the Highway 32 intersection. According to the Salem police report, a 1999 Jeep Cherokee driven by Chelsea Nickles of Salem and owned by Michael Schum of Salem, was traveling west on Highway 32 and slowed down for a stoplight. A gray 2001 Chevrolet in the center turn lane waved a pedestrian across the road, and blocked the view of Nickles. Nickles accelerated at the green light, and was apparently blocked by the vehicle in the center turn lane. The Jeep braked, swerved left to avoid the pedestrian, and caught the pedestrian with the passenger right front side. The Chevrolet skidded about 61 feet 7 inches from the point of impact. The unidentified pedestrian suffered serious injuries and was flown to Mercy Hospital in Springfield with serious injuries. The Jeep sustained minor damage and was towed from the scene.

Colonel Sandra K. Karsten, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces the results of enforcement efforts to detect impaired boat operators in conjunction with the national “Operation Dry Water” campaign. This is the ninth year for the national effort to reduce impaired vessel operation by highlighting enforcement efforts. Troopers conducted saturations and worked extended shifts to bring heightened awareness to the issue of boating while intoxicated. Troopers arrested 15 people statewide for boating while intoxicated, contacted 856 vessels and 2,745 boaters, and issued 146 boating violation summonses and 1,238 warnings. Marine operations troopers also issued 86 summonses for non-boating violations during the 2017 Operation Dry Water weekend. Special enforcement operations will continue throughout the summer months. Boaters are reminded that designating a sober operator is always the safest bet if alcohol is going to be included in their boating experience. 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!!

The Salem Police Department released reports involving, a domestic disturbance, theft, and a shoplifter. On Sunday, June 25th at 12:43 in the early morning, an officer was detailed to a residence in the 600 block of East Hunt in reference to a domestic disturbance. The report led to the arrest of a 37-year old Salem male for failure to obey a lawful order of a police officer and resisting arrest. He was issued summonses to appear in court and released. That night at 10:51, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 1800 block of South Oak in reference to a theft. The report revealed that someone unknown took a purse and contents valued $150 from a gray Chevrolet Cruze and the report is under investigation. On Monday, June 26th at 12:15 pm, an officer transported a 22-year old female to the Mental Health Center in Poplar Bluff on an active commitment order. That same afternoon at 1:22, an officer responded to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The report led to the arrest of a 51-year old Salem male for stealing merchandise. He was issued a summons to appear in court and released. Please contact the Salem Police Department at 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department released reports for the end of June involving a suspicious vehicle, trespassing, theft from a vehicle, and traffic stops. On Tuesday, June 27th, deputies responded to the 400 block of county road 2270 for a suspicious vehicle. Upon speaking with the passengers, it was discovered that one had three warrants for his arrest. As a result, 35-year old James Bergan of Farmington was arrested and taken to the Dent County Jail. His warrants were for driving while revoked, failure to wear a seat belt, and possessing a fictitious driver’s license. He was incarcerated and held on a total of $800 cash only bond. He later posted bond. On Wednesday, June 28th, deputies responded to county road 2270 for a report of a female beating on the basement door and yelling at residents. After an investigation, 51-year old Tonya Tucker of Salem was arrested, transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, issued a citation for Trespassing-1st Degree, and released. That same day deputies responded to county road 5700 for a report of theft out of a vehicle. Prescription medication and a debit card were taken from a vehicle parked at a residence and the report is still under investigation. On Thursday, June 29th, deputies took a report of property damage on county road 6490. A SAM (Speed Awareness Monitor) trailer on the edge of the county road had been shot with a rifle the middle of the LED display and the report is still under investigation. Also on that Thursday, deputies conducted a traffic stop on South McArthur Street near Hunt. As a result, 35-year old James Bergan of Farmington was arrested for driving while intoxicated and transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office. He was fingerprinted, issued summons, and released. On Friday, June 30th, deputies conducted a traffic stop in the KFC/Taco Bell parking lot. As a result, 34-year old Christopher Roberts of Salem was arrested on misdemeanor failure to appear warrant. He was taken to the Dent County Jail and allowed to post bond. Anyone with any information regarding any ongoing investigation is asked to call the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 729-3241.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports 14 people died in traffic crashes, no one died in a boating crash, and there were no drownings during the 2017 July Fourth holiday counting period. The counting period began at 6:00 pm, Friday, June 30th, and ended at 11:59 pm, Tuesday, July 4th. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports the 2017 July 4th holiday traffic statistics consisted of 494 crashes with 186 injuries and 14 fatalities. There were a total of 172 arrests for DWI and 118 drug arrests. The July 4th holiday boating statistics included 7 boating crashes with 4 injuries. There were a total of 23 arrests for BWI and 33 drug arrests while boating. In 2016, five people were killed and 565 injured in Missouri over the holiday in 1,370 traffic crashes. Over the 2016 July Fourth holiday, troopers arrested 121 people for driving while intoxicated. Troopers investigated 11 boating crashes including 6 injuries and zero fatalities during the 2016 July Fourth holiday weekend. No one drowned during last year’s holiday. Troopers arrested 11 people for boating while intoxicated over the 2016 July Fourth holiday. In 2016, troopers also made 122 drug arrests during the July Fourth Holiday.

Anyone interested in learning about Dutch oven cooking is invited to a free demonstration this Saturday, July 8th at Echo Bluff State Park which is located about 25 miles south of Salem. The demonstration will be held from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. in the park’s amphitheater. Participants will learn how early settlers cooked over an open fire and all the tips and tricks that can be used today to successfully cook with a Dutch oven. 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 Highway 19 approximately 25 miles south of Salem and 14 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.

On Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse, there was a public hearing to amend the Drug Court Fund budget and Juvenile budget was held with Sid Pearson, Circuit Judge; Nick Hutchison, Chief Juvenile Officer; and Teresa Booker, Juvenile Secretary. The Drug Court revenues were increased to $9,170. and expenses were increased to $20,000. The Juvenile budget expense was increased to $57,695.44. Both budget requests were made by the Circuit Judges Division I & II to correct the error to what should have been requested by the Juvenile and Drug Court departments. The amendment was approved by the commission. Also Commissioner Purcell wanted to purchase a 2005 dump truck for $70,000 for the road department from Ryan Truck Sales in Waynesville to replace the truck that was totaled. He has truck comparisons. The county received an insurance check for the totaled truck in the amount of $68,000.00. The commission agreed to purchase the truck. The Commissioners then went into closed session to discuss contracts and after a discussion, voted 3-0 to accept and sign the Septagon agreement for Construction Manager on the Jail Project.