Local News

An accident occurred Saturday morning around 5:15 in Crawford County on Hwy 19 about 3 miles south of Steelville. According to the highway patrol report a 2002 Honda Accord driven by an unknown person was traveling southbound and failed to negotiate a curve. The Honda began to skid and travelled off the left side of the roadway. The Honda then struck a tree, an unoccupied park car, and the side of a garage before coming to rest. The driver fled the scene before officers arrived. A 34-year-old male from Salem, 22-year-old male from Cuba, and a 20-year-old male from Sullivan all suffered moderate injuries and were airlifted to Mercy Creve Coeur. It is unknown if any occupants were wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Honda was totaled and removed from the scene by Miles and Sons Towing.

An accident occurred Friday afternoon around 2:10 in Dent County on Hwy 68 near County Road 3250. According to the highway patrol report a 2015 Toyota Prius driven by a 69-year-old male from Festus was traveling northbound and failed to negotiate a curve. The Toyota travelled off the right side of the roadway and struck a pole. The male suffered moderate injuries and was transported by Salem Memorial Ambulance to Salem Memorial Hospital. He was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Toyota was totaled and removed from the scene by American Towing.

The Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) approved an agreement Wednesday July 16th setting new rates for natural gas customers of Union Electric Company d/b/a Ameren Missouri. The Commission approved an unopposed agreement reached among the parties in the case: Ameren Missouri, PSC Staff, the Office of the Public Counsel and the Missouri School Boards’ Association. Under the agreement terms, Ameren Missouri will increase rates by $31.5 million. The amount approved by the Commission is $8.1 million less than Ameren Missouri’s original request of $39.6 million. The new rates will become effective on September 1, 2025. The agreement also included approval of certain low-income and weatherization programs, including the Critical Needs Program and the Income-Eligible Weatherization Assistance Program. The Missouri Public Service Commission regulates investor-owned electric, natural gas, steam, manufactured housing and modular units, water and sewer companies, and has limited authority over telephone providers in the state. The Commission ensures the public has access to safe, reliable and reasonably priced utility service. The Commission must balance the interests of the public – ratepayers – as well as company shareholders. In proceedings before the Commission, rates are set to allow the utility company an opportunity – but not a guarantee – to earn a reasonable return on its investment after recovering its prudently incurred expenses.

The Missouri Conservation Commission gave initial approval to several regulation changes from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) to expand furbearer hunting and trapping opportunities at its May 16th open meeting in Jefferson City. As many populations of furbearing species continue to increase, the proposed regulation changes will increase trapping opportunities and provide landowners with additional tools to manage wildlife populations and respond to human-wildlife conflicts. The Commission gave initial approval to increasing the number of days that allow the use of artificial light, night vision, and thermal imagery equipment when harvesting coyotes. The proposed regulation would extend the use of these tools to 252 days from January 1st through September 30th, excluding the prescribed spring turkey hunting season. Prior to the proposed regulation, artificial light, night vision, and thermal imaging equipment could only be used to harvest coyotes from February 1st through March 31st, a total of 59 days. The Commission also approved a proposed regulation change that would allow Conibear and similar type traps that are 7 inches in size or smaller to be used in dryland sets on private property with some restrictions on placement and use. Previously, these types of traps could not be more than 5 inches, unless set in water. In addition, the Commission approved a proposed regulation change that would allow the use of snares in dryland sets on private property with certain requirements on size and device configuration. Currently, snares can only be used in water sets. The proposed regulation would allow snares in dryland sets on private property as long as they are set 150 feet from public areas and property borders, unless written consent is obtained. MDC is seeking public comments on the proposed regulation changes until this Thursday. Get more information and submit comments at mdc.mo.gov/contact-engage. If given final approval, the anticipated date for the regulation changes to take effect is January 1st, 2026, for extended use of artificial light, night vision, and thermal imagery equipment when harvesting coyotes. If given final approval, the anticipated date for the other regulation changes to become effective is April 1st, 2026. For more information on Hunting and Trapping in Missouri, visit MDC online at mdc.mo.gov.

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning at the courthouse. Citizens Deloris Gray Wood, Dr. Leigh Ann Price, and Cindy Jones were in attendance. Deloris presented two requests for activities on the courthouse lawn. The first, on September 6th, would be a “Birthday Party” celebrating the 155th anniversary for the Dent County Courthouse. The plans are tentative at this point, but might include speaker(s), music, a picnic, etc., and would begin at 4:00 in the afternoon. The second event would be Friday, September 4th, 2026, and would be a WWII Remembrance of events on September 4th, 1943, in Meramec Township. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said the events would be fine based on what the Commission learns from Jeff Banderet of Great Rivers Engineering about timing of the sidewalk project. The Commissioners gave tentative approval to the two activities. In the road report District One Commissioner Keith Green said brush would be cut on Dent County Roads 5015 and 5080, plus his crew had spent two days on 5080, the Swartz Road, preparing for the chip and seal repair project. He went on to report that grading would be done on county roads 5590 and 5600 and another pipe would be installed on county road 4210, the Maledy Ford road. Green also said he had a man going to Lebanon for a load of cold mix asphalt. District Two Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2200, 2340, and 4340, plus rock would be added and grading done on county road 3233. Presiding Commissioner Larson reported that he attended a Tourism Tax Committee meeting on Monday where they had 3 requests for reimbursement. Two were approved, while one was denied. Larson also said that committee received a thank you letter from John Hambacker for their approval of the Frisco Trail signage. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said bills were being approved by the commissioners for payment, and that she wanted to remind all tax entities such as cities, schools, hospital, health center, unbalance, fire, etc., that their ProForma Tax Rate forms are headed their way and they need to publish their tax rate hearings asap. The commission set their tax rate hearing for August 18th at 10:00. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams was in to report CART receipts and Sales Tax receipts. The road and bridge CART receipts for the month were $89,339.41, which is up $6,272.78. Year-to-date CART receipts are up $47,339.04, or about 8.7%, when compared to 2024. She also reported that the General Revenue and Law Enforcement each received $84,102.40, and those are up year-to-date $26,968.84 or about 4.2%. Road and Bridge was up year-to-date $15,247.49 with this month’s receipt of $38,855.32. That was about a 5.1% increase. The jail funds each received $78,132.45, which is an increase year-to-date of $30,573.11, also a 5.1% increase. Banderet presented engineering agreements for road and bridge improvements. Two smaller projects were proposed on Dent County Roads 5150 and 3210 at a cost of $25,500 each for a total of $51,000. A larger bridge replacement on county road 4210 was proposed at $145,000. The commissioners voted 3-0 to approve the agreements for the three FEMA related bridges, but due to the fact that the county is waiting on FEMA reimbursement Banderet will not begin any work until the commission tells him to. Derrick Marfitt, Emergency Management Director, shared his frustration with FEMA and outlined what he has done supplying reports and documentation, some multiple times to the same department since FEMA lost the information or a personnel change had occurred. It was suggested that the commissioners should contact Congressman Jason Smith and Senator Josh Hawley about the FEMA situation. Banderet also addressed the sidewalk project and the courthouse lighting options. He recommended an alternative that potentially would save $40,000 on the project. Banderet addressed the FLAP Project #077, which is the back road into Montauk. There were some archaeological findings so he recommended going to the Phase I project, which would involve curve widening and would save enough money to stay within the $800,000 fully funded project budget. Economic Development Director Carrie Sutterfield was in to visit about the MRPC Waste Collection September 13th and requested volunteer help. Commissioner Larson said he would follow up on the request. Noah Gates with Tri-State Truck Center visited with the commissioners on the state bid pricing for 2026 Mach dual-axle and tri-axle dump trucks. The commissioners decided to wait on a decision pending FEMA funding. Chris Holliday, IDA President, was in to recommend the reappointment of Lori Plank, Dean Jones and Camron Erway to the Industrial Development Authority Board. Their reappointment was approved 3-0. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Monday morning in the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the National Deer Association (NDA) invite landowners to a Wildflowers and Whitetails webinar on August 26th at 6:00 in the evening as well as a Utilizing Prescribed Fire for Deer Management on September 9th at 6:00 in the evening. If you’d like to learn more about deer management at you can visit mdc.mo.gov.

With summer activities, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds everyone to be careful with all sources of fire that could cause a wildfire. If you are building a campfire clear a generous zone around fire rings. Store unused firewood a good distance from a campfire. Never use gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquid to start a fire. Keep campfires small and controllable. Keep fire-extinguishing materials, such as a rake, shovel, and bucket of water, close. Extinguish campfires each night and before leaving camp, even if it’s just for a few moments. Learn more about camping on MDC areas at mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/activities/camping. Call 911 at the first sign of a fire getting out of control.

Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health (SEMO BH), a trusted provider of mental health and substance use treatment in central and southeast Missouri, will soon become part of the nation’s largest nonprofit behavioral health organization. SEMO BH is an affiliate of Brightli, a Springfield-based nonprofit that recently announced plans to merge with Centerstone, a Nashville-based behavioral health provider. The two organizations have entered into a non-binding agreement and expect to finalize the merger by November 2025. When complete, the unified organization will serve more than 250,000 people annually and operate more than 360 behavioral health facilities across nine states. For residents of Dent County and surrounding areas, this merger means that services currently provided by SEMO BH will be strengthened through access to broader resources, expanded provider networks, and advanced, research-backed care models. SEMO BH will continue to operate as usual with no disruptions in patient care. Clients will keep seeing their current care teams and accessing services close to home. The demand for mental health and addiction services is at record levels following the COVID-19 pandemic, providers like SEMO BH face increasing challenges—from workforce shortages to evolving regulations. By joining forces, Brightli and Centerstone aim to stabilize and expand community-based services in rural areas like Dent County, ensuring local access to life-saving treatment now and into the future. The combined organization will have more than 10,000 employees and over $1 billion in annual revenue, positioning it to lead innovation and expand care nationwide. The National Council for Mental Wellbeing has praised the merger as a model for strengthening the U.S. behavioral health system through collaboration. For more information you can contact Rance Burger by call or text at (573) 286-9393 or email at rance.burger@burrellcenter.com

According to a press release from the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) they have announced they’re compliance and implementation strategy following the passage of Senate Bill 63. MSHSAA Executive Director Dr. Jennifer Rukstad sent a letter to all member schools on July 15. In summary, effective August 28, 2025, this new law expands participation opportunities to full-time homeschool, full-time Family Paced Education (FPE), and full-time virtual school students with the public or charter school which serves the place they live. The law applies to a broad scope of athletics, fine arts, and integrated co-curricular activities, not just those governed by MSHSAA. MSHSAA will refer to students who are eligible and choose to participate under Senate Bill 63 as resident participant students. To align with Senate Bill 63, MSHSAA member schools will implement by-law changes via a Special Ballot, which will be open to them from August 11-22. Full rule changes will take effect August 25, upon ballot certification. Dr. Rukstad said that MSHSAA member schools must approve the Special Ballot and that it’s not a matter of preference but of legality. Member schools are strongly encouraged to accept the by-law changes to ensure uninterrupted, equitable access to interscholastic athletics and activities and protect student eligibility. MSHSAA will allow relief for resident participant students from current by-laws for early participation to coincide with the beginning of the fall sports season.

Landowners and conservation enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity this fall to learn firsthand how to improve habitat for Missouri’s wild turkeys. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will host a Turkey Nesting and Brood-Rearing Workshop on Saturday, September 6th from 10 in the morning to 2 in the afternoon at a private farm located at 55-1 Old Mine Road in Cook Station, approximately 20 miles north of Salem off Highway M. This hands-on, field-based event is designed to educate attendees on what constitutes high-quality nesting and brood-rearing habitat for wild turkeys. Participants will be guided through habitat areas by MDC wildlife biologists and the hosting landowner, offering an up-close look at completed land improvement projects. The workshop will also include discussion of incentive programs that can help landowners implement similar practices on their own property. Lunch will be provided at no cost to attendees, and participants are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and wear clothing appropriate for walking outdoors. While the event is open to all ages, space is limited to 65 participants. As of this week, 32 spots remain available. A wait list will be offered for anyone unable to register in time but interested in future events in the region. The workshop will be led by MDC biologist Jeffrey Esely, and registration is required in advance. Those who need to cancel should do so before the September 6 deadline. For questions or to register by phone, call 1-888-283-0364 during weekday business hours. Email inquiries can also be directed to the instructor via the MDC website.

Need fishing gear? The Missouri Department of Conservation works with your own Salem Public Library as well as other locations around the state to loan fishing gear for free. Loaner gear includes fishing poles and simple tackle box with hooks, sinkers, and bobbers. Worms, minnows, or other bait are not provided. Call the Salem Public Library at 573-729-4331 or stop by at 403 North Jackson Street. You can find other locations that offer the Department of Conservation Rod and Reel Loaner Program locations at mdc.mo.gov/fishing and search for the rod and reel loaner program.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen held their regular meeting yesterday evening at 6:00 in the Auditorium located at 202 N. Washington Street. After approving the agenda and consent agenda, the board heard first and second readings of two Bills. Bill No. 3680, an ordinance amending the annual budget for the City of Salem for fiscal year 2025. The budget will see an overall fund balance decrease of $518,580.33 due to grant projects that were started later than anticipated, and Bill No. 3681, an ordinance allowing the subdivision of 803 E. Center St, a property owned by Bean Properties LLC. Both of these Bills were approved. The board also approved three bids. A bid for two patrol cars for the Salem Police Department from Behlman Dodge and obtaining the equipment from Scenic Rivers Industries for a total of $92,915.07; a bid from Olathe Fleet in the amount of $282,194.00 to replace a 20 year old double bucket truck for the Electrical Department; and a bid from Bridgewell Resources for 37 utility poles priced at $464 each for a total cost of $17,168.00. During the reports from city officials, City Administrator Sally Burbridge stated there will be a Leading Your Water Utility workshop on August 26th from 11:00 to 1:30 in the afternoon in the Rotary Room at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory. She also scheduled an educational workshop with the Board of Aldermen to discuss vacant buildings in the community. Burbridge also stated that she had a walk through with Archer Elgin and Maggi to identify lingering issues that still need to be addressed in the downtown area.  Mayor Greg Parker stated he is organizing a recycling event with MRPC on Saturday September 13 from 9:00 to 12:00 and is currently looking for people interested in volunteering. Finance Director Stacy Houston gave the financial report for the end of fiscal year 2025, noting that the unofficial ending balance in all city funds is just under $14.2 million, she did clarify that this amount is subject to change pending transfers and adjustments. Public Works Director Steve Paine gave an update on the city’s utility crews, noting that the construction crew is planning to begin an emergency mitigation project for FEMA at the sewer plant, before taking on a project to renovate the parking lot at the Salem Community Center at the Armory to make it more accessible to emergency vehicles. With no reports from the Aldermen, the meeting adjourned to executive session to discuss contracts before adjourning. 

The Dent County Sheriff’s office has submitted the following reports for July 13th through the 19th. On Sunday, the 13th, Deputies responded to the 200 block of County Road 4220 for a domestic assault. A report was taken, and the investigation is pending. Also on the 13th, Deputies took a report of the theft of farm equipment from the 3000 block of Highway N. The investigation is ongoing. Stil on the 13th, Deputies responded to the 22,000 block of Highway C for a property damage report. The victim’s mailbox was damaged by an unknown subject. The investigation is ongoing. Then on Tuesday, the 15th, Deputies arrested a 49-year-old male for failing to register as a sex offender. The suspect was transported to the Dent County Jail and was placed on a 24-Hour Hold. Then on Wednesday the 16th, Deputies responded to the 2800 block of County Road 4060 for a reported domestic assault. A 28-year-old male was arrested and transported to the Dent County Jail. Finally on Saturday, the 19th, Deputies responded to the unit block of County Road 3190 for a reported domestic assault. The parties were separated, and a report was taken. If you have any information concerning any ongoing investigation, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 573-729-3241.

Representative Jason Smith is reminding those students interested in attending one of the US service academies which includes the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy, that you have until October 24th to get your applications in. Applicants are considered on the basis of leadership skills, academic success, physical ability, and extracurricular activities. A committee of Missouri residents review each application and make nomination recommendations to Smith. To receive a nomination packet, contact the congressman’s Farmington office at 573-756-9755 or email Donna.Hickman@mail.house.gov. Students, parents, and educators interested in learning more about academy life and the application process are encouraged to attend Academy Day. The event is from 9:30 in the morning until 12:00 noon on September 13th at the fieldhouse at Jefferson College in Hillsboro, Mo. Attendees will be able to meet with representatives from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. To register, please send an email to academyday2025@mail.house.gov.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will meet tonight at 6:00 at 202 N. Washington in the Old City Hall Auditorium. After the call to order, pledge of allegiance, roll call, approval of the agenda and consent agenda will be public comments. The board will hear first and second readings of Bill No. 3680, an ordinance amending the annual budget for the City of Salem, and Bill No. 3681 an ordinance to allow the subdivision of 803 E. Center St. The board will also discuss and vote on several bills pertaining to patrol cars for the police department, and a bucket truck, and utility poles for the electrical department. The board will then go into closed session to discuss contracts and sealed proposals, followed by an adjournment.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. Mr. and Mrs. Brian Jones were in with questions about the excavation and work on Dent County Road 2240. The Commissioners explained that it was the new City of Salem well and water tower that’s under construction and that the Commissioners were aware of it. In the road report First District Commissioner Keith Green said his crew was installing a pipe on Dent County Road 4210, commonly called the Maledy Ford Road, plus grading on county road 5600. Green said that after they were finished on county 5600, they would be moving to the Bunker area. He also noted that brush was being cut on county road 5015. Second District Commissioner Jimmy Williams said that grading was being done on Dent County Roads 5310, 3080, 3090, and 3100, plus brush was going to be cut on county roads 3220, 6680, 6690, and 6700. Williams reported that rock was still being added to county road 5310. He noted that a driveway pipe was going to be installed on county road 4380 and rock would be added. Williams said a tree was going to be taken down on county road 2540. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson reported that Wednesday he would be attending the second meeting of the SSR4A, Safe Streets and Roads for All, advisory committee meeting. He also noted that each of the commissioners received an invitation letter from Senator Josh Hawley to the Agriculture Advisory Council meeting at the State Fair on August 14th. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said that bills were being approved by the commissioners for payment. The commission is seeking applications for a part-time custodian to work on an as needed basis. The salary would be $15.00 per hour with no benefits. If anyone is interested, they are to contact Presiding Commissioner Larson at 573-368-9099. Applications can be picked up and returned to the Dent County Clerk’s office in the courthouse. The Board of Equalization appointments started Monday afternoon. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting will be open to the public.

Governor Mike Kehoe Friday announced eleven appointments to various boards and commissions and filled one county vacancy. One of those appointments was Monica Lyle of St. James, who was appointed to the Child Abuse and Neglect Review Board. Ms. Lyle is a counselor for the Salem R-80 School District. She previously served as a counselor for the Rolla #31 School District and the director of education for Perimeter of Missouri. Lyle has been highly involved in several professional organizations, including the American School Counselor Association and the Missouri School Counselor Association. Lyle earned a master’s degree in counseling from Missouri Baptist University.

On Friday, July 25th Danielle Norris will hold a “How to Paint your dragon” kids paint party from 5:30 to 7:30 in the evening. If you want to learn how to paint a dragon, grab your parents or a friend and head to the Creative Arts Center where you will learn all the tricks and techniques to paint your dragon. The artist will teach you step by step through the whole process and when you are finished, you will have a completed dragon painting. The cost is $20 for adults and $10 for kids. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center. For more information, e-mail salemartscenter@salemcommunitybetterment.com

The Salem and Dent County 4-H and FFA Livestock Auction was held this past Saturday at The Commons that raised an unofficial total of $249,313.91. Auctioneers Roger Schafer and Brady Hagler auctioned off five pens of market chickens for $3,698.65, six pens of market rabbits for $1,888.78, nine cured meats brought in $3,525.73, 17 market goats sold for $14,455.00, 11 market lambs fetched $14,164.00, 46 market hog sales raised $54,860.00, the 26 market steers raised $146,121.75. Wyatt Dunlap’s Market Meat Chicken Pen as Grand Champion and the Reserve Champion Pen was shown by Mason Dunlap. Hawk Phelps took home the Grand Champion ribbon for his Market Meat Rabbit Pen, and Jenna Murr got the Reserve Champion. Champion ribbon recipients in the Beef Cattle Show were: Chase Simpson’s Angus Heifer, Kacy Chapman’s Red Angus, Morgan Radford’s Hereford Heifer, Brentlee Easter’s Simmental Heifer, and Kohen Garrison’s Charolais Heifer. Kohen also brought home Grand Champion for his Heifer. Reserve Grand Champion ribbon winners were: Chase Simpson’s Heifer, Ella Yates’s Hereford Heifer, and Kacy Chapman’s Charolais Heifer. Market Hog class winners were: Daxton Hutchings and Oliver Hutchings earning Grand Champion and Reserve Champion, respectively. The Salem FFA Chapter and all the Dent County 4-H Clubs thank everyone who attended the auction this year for their generosity and support. If you missed this year’s auction you can go back and watch it on either the KSMO YouTube page or Facebook page.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education held their regular meeting on Thursday evening at 5:30 in the district office. After approving the agenda and consent agenda, Superintendent Dr. Nathan Wills shared an update on the progress of the FEMA building construction, stating they hope to start moving furniture into the building as early as the last week in July. Dr. Wills also stated repairs at the track will begin soon, and while he would like to see these repairs completed before the start of football season, it is more realistic that the track repairs will conclude by next summer. He also gave updates to roof and parking lot repairs as well as an update to the district personnel handbook, amending the leave policy and removing verbiage regarding pay scale. Dr. Wills congratulated Mr. Wofford on being named South Central Regional Teacher of the Year. In new business, the board approved several key items, including the district’s AMI Plan, participation in the Baseline Salary Grant, and a series of Missouri School Boards’ Association (MSBA) policy updates. They accepted a bid from Byrnes & Jones in the amount of $121,000.00 to repair the track and a $100,100.00 bid from B. Fitz Enterprise, to repair the parking lots at the Upper Elementary, the Middle School, and The Senior High School. Changes to the 2025-26 personnel handbook and meal prices were also approved, and the tax rate hearing was scheduled for August 21 at 5:15 p.m., followed immediately by the next board meeting. The board set graduation for May 15, 2026, with a makeup date of May 17. They also voted to pursue a replacement for Steven Patterson’s board seat and approved two new hires: The board then adjourned to executive session to discuss personnel matters. 

The Creative Arts Center is offering “Flat Reed Basket Weaving” with Connie Light on tomorrow evening, July 22nd from 6:30 to 8:30. This class is open to anyone 14 years of age and older. Come and make a white oak flat reed napkin basket approximately 8” square. In this class you will learn a basic basket making technique that can be used as a foundation to many other future basket making projects. No prior knowledge is required.  The cost is $40 per person and all supplies are included. There must be at least two people sign up to hold the class and it will be limited to six. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center. For more information, email salemartscenter@salemcommunitybetterment.com.

The Missouri Department of Transportation has announced another extension of an allowance for heavier-than-normal truckloads of rock, sand and gravel on Missouri highways for flood relief, levees and other public infrastructure flood repair. The waiver allows private and for-hire motor carriers to haul up to 10% more than their licensed weight, axle weight, and/or maximum weight limitation allowed under RSMo 304.180.3 on Missouri highways. The waiver will remain in effect through August 31st. While the waiver is in effect, participating motor carriers must abide by the following limitations. A loaded, gross weight is not to exceed 10% above the gross licensed weight of the commercial motor vehicle. The waiver applies to transportation of rock, sand and gravel only within the state of Missouri. Drivers must obey posted bridge weight limits. When crossing a bridge, the driver must restrict the vehicle speed to no more than 30 mph. Travel under this allowance is only allowed on non-interstate highways. Those taking advantage of the weight allowance cannot operate on any portion of the interstate highway system. Drivers can check the Traveler Information Map at traveler.modot.org for up-to-date road closure information.

The Dent County 4-H & FFA Expo shows start at 7:00 at The Commons this morning with the Hog show, followed by the Sheep and Goat show. The Beef and Dairy shows will start at 2:00 today, followed by the Buyer’s Supper at 6:30. Saturday morning the highlight of the Expo will be the 4-H and FFA Market Sale, which will begin at 9:00. Everyone is invited, but if you can’t make it, the auction will be carried live on KSMO Radio (AM 1340 and FM 95.7) and also live streamed on KSMO Media (ksmoradio.com, KSMO Stream Facebook, and the KSMO YouTube & Twitch Channels.) 

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. Don Moore from Public Water Supply District #1 was in attendance as they are trenching in a new water line on Dent County Road 4180, which caused complaints to Commissioner Keith Green by residents whose yards were tore up. The water district was going to put the new line in the county road easement, but apparently used the state road easement of 25-feet from the center of the road instead of county easement of 15-feet from the center of the road, and also apparently did not contact the residents of this work which upset many people. Commissioner Green said the water district should have contacted him so that he could let them know where to trench the new water line. He does not want the new water line installed against the roadway or in the bottom of the ditch line in the easement. Green, Moore and the contractor met on the road Thursday to discuss any further work on the project. A resident who lives on county road 4180, Kathy Crocker, also came in after Moore had left and discussed the situation with the commission. Cindy Jones from “We the People” gave the commissioners a press release from the Missouri House of Representatives on property tax reform public hearing dates that will help develop solutions promoting fairness, transparency and sustainability. The hearings near our area include July 30th in Lebanon at the Wallace Center at 5:30, August 20th in St. Louis at the Center of Clayton at 5:30, and on Wednesday, September 3rd at 11:00 in the morning at the State Capital, House Hearing Room #3 in Jefferson City. For more information, go to house.mo.gov. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Green said the crews will be grading in the areas of Dent County Road 4000 and 5500, while brush will be cut on county road 5051. Green said that on Monday, workers will have to replace a large culvert on Dent County Road 4210 which will close that area most of the day. Green said county workers will try to let all those residents who will be affected know about the road closure on Monday. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams stated grading will be done on Dent County Roads 3120, 3130 and 3135. Williams indicated rock will be added to county road 4380 where a culvert is being replaced, and also on county road 5260 where crews are making repairs to the low water crossing. Williams reported debris is being removed from Dent County Road 5240 and if there is enough time, crews will repair the low-water crossing on county road 5310. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said he attended the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management Advisory Council meeting in St. James at the MRPC offices. He reported the district was created in 1991 to help reduce solid waste by 40% in the state, and more of the regions have done that, but the is not the case in the Ozark Rivers region. A lot of the problem is the increased use of plastics in everyday life, and Larson said the district is working on a way to educate people better on the dangers of plastic sand possibly create a better way to recycle plastics. He also said tires are also being recycled to be used in asphalt after the steel is removed because of its flexibility, but the same cannot be said for asphalt shingles which get dried out from the sun and exposure and lose their elasticity. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley attended the 90th Annual NACO Conference in Philadelphia where county officials from all over the country gathered to discuss issues facing rural communities. She said she attended the Missouri Rural Caucus conference, the US Election Associate Commission conference, and also attended the USDA conference.  Jeff Chronister and Bill Budnick from Ollis, Akers and Arney Insurance discussing bidding for the county’s auto, property and liability insurance this year. Sheriff Bob Wells came in and requested a reallocation of Opiod Expenditure Funds, previously approved by the Opiod Settlement Fund board, for the purchase of a Flock Safety License Plate Reader. This is an automated license plate recognition network designed to capture and log vehicle details in real time. The request was approved by the commission. The next meeting of the commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

This Saturday, July 19th, is shaping up to be a blast! MRPC will be participating in the 10th Annual Kids Safety Day at Lions Club Park in Rolla from 10:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon. The Rolla Masonic Lodge will be there with their MoCHIP child identification program, and we’ll have a bunch of really cool vehicles, including helicopters, fire trucks, police vehicles, and a couple of boats, as well as a bicycle safety course. It’s rain or shine, so come on down and join the fun!

The Dent County 4-H & FFA Expo livestock registration is this morning from 9:30 until 11:30 and all livestock MUST be in place by 11:00. Weigh-ins will start at 12:00 with the Small Animal Show to begin at 3:00. The “Pig Pals” practice is scheduled for 4:00 with the show to follow at 5:00. The exhibitor and family supper will be at 6:00. Friday the shows kick off at 7:00 in the morning with the Hog show, followed by the Sheep and Goat show. The Beef and Dairy shows will start at 2:00 Friday afternoon, followed by the Buyer’s Supper at 6:30. Saturday morning the highlight of the Expo will be the 4-H and FFA Market Sale, which will begin at 9:00. The auction will be carried live on KSMO (AM 1340 and FM 95.7) and also live streamed on KSMO Media (ksmoradio.com, KSMO Stram Facebook, and the KSMO YouTube & Twitch Channels.) For additional information contact the Dent County Extension office at (573) 729-3196.

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission approved the Fiscal year 2026 through 2030 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program, better known as STIP. The program lists transportation projects planned by state and regional planning agencies starting July 1st, 2026, continuing through June 30th, 2030. The five-year program is one of the largest to date and includes additional funding from General Revenue, passed by the Missouri General Assembly and signed by Gov. Mike Kehoe. Funding is allocated for improvements to interstates 70 and 44, the fixing of low-volume minor roads, and improvements to bridges, airports and rail crossings. The STIP makes available $13.3 billion of federal and state revenues for all modes of transportation over the next five years. Of the $13.3 billion, the STIP details $9.5 billion in contractor awards for road and bridge construction – averaging approximately $1.9 billion per year. In Dent County, the bridge replacement over Dry Creek on Route B and ADA improvements to sidewalks on Highway 19 are scheduled to be done this year. Also included were bridge improvements over Spring Creek on Highway 19 and bridge improvement over Huzzah Creek on Highway 32 that are scheduled to start next year. The plan also includes the future scoping to replace or improve the bridge on Route FF over Crooked Creek. Also scheduled for next year are the pavement improvement on Route P from Highway 72 to the end of state maintenance. The repavement will also include Routes JJ and N to end of state maintenance. Bridge improvements on Route H over Dry Fork Creek and Barnett Prong Dry Creek, and on Highway 32 over Dry Fork Creek and Pigeon Creek are scheduled for the third year of the plan. The STIP details improvements to Missouri’s 33,814 miles of highway and 10,427 bridges and culverts. The draft version of the STIP was released in May for public review, with MoDOT receiving 73 comments.

Electrical service in Montauk State Park Campground Loop 4 affected by flooding last November was restored earlier this month. These sites are now operational and ready for reservations. Electrical service has been restored to 27 campsites that now offer 50-amp, 30-amp, and 20-amp service. Camping in Loop 4 with no electrical service has been available on a first-come, first-served basis since March 2025. Reservations can be made by contacting the Reservation Call Center at 877-422-6766 from 7:00 in the morning to 7:00 in the evening or by visiting icampmo.com.

The Dent County Toy Drive is looking for vendors for this year’s Craft Fair as well as Food Truck vendors! The Craft Fair will be held July 26th at the Dent County Commons from 9:00 in the morning until 4:00 in the afternoon. Join them for a day of fun that includes a FREE old-fashioned carnival, a poker run hosted by ABATE, The Current River Cruisers Cruise-In cars, craft show, food trucks, and music! Call 573-247-2216 for more information. 

Ozark National Scenic Riverways plans to host two managed deer hunts at Big Spring this fall, providing special opportunities for youth and mobility-impaired veterans. The application period for both hunts is July 1st through July 31st. Ten hunters will be randomly selected for each event. The Youth Hunt is scheduled for December 6th & 7th. Applicants must apply online through the Missouri Department of Conservation at mdc.mo.gov/managedhunt. The Exceptional Warrior Mobility-Impaired Hunt will take place October 25th and 26th. Applications and details for this hunt are available at go.nps.gov/BigSpringHunt2025. For additional information, visit the park’s Facebook page, park website, or call (573) 323-4236.

The Ozark Fly Fishers 15th Annual Missouri Stream Outing will be held July 18th through the 20th! The public is invited to attend educational sessions promoting the conservation of Missouri’s beautiful streams. Attendees are encouraged to participate in various activities and science-based presentations involving on stream water quality monitoring, fly casting, and fly-tying instruction. If interested in this free event at Montauk State Park, visit the Searcy Building during the outing to attain details or call 314-560-1335.

The City of Salem will be testing the storm sirens this morning at 10:00. If there is inclement weather, the test will postpone to the following Wednesday, July 23rd.

The Dent County 4-H & FFA Expo kicked off Tuesday with the setting up of the Exhibit Entries. Those entries will be judged starting this morning at 10:00. This evening at 6:00 will be the Dessert Auction. Dessert items must be brought in between 3:00 and 5:00 today to the multi-purpose building at the Commons. Tomorrow will be livestock registration from 9:30 until 11:30 and all livestock MUST be in place by 11:00. Weigh-ins will start at 12:00 with the Small Animal Show to begin at 3:00. The “Pig Pals” practice is scheduled for 4:00 with the show to follow at 5:00. The exhibitor and family supper will be at 6:00. Friday the shows kick off at 7:00 in the morning with the Hog show, followed by the Sheep and Goat show. The Beef and Dairy shows will start at 2:00 Friday afternoon, followed by the Buyer’s Supper at 6:30. Saturday morning the highlight of the Expo will be the 4-H and FFA Market Sale, which will begin at 9:00. The auction will be carried live on KSMO (AM 1340 and FM 95.7) and also live streamed on KSMO Media (ksmoradio.com, KSMO Stram Facebook, and the KSMO YouTube & Twitch Channels.) For additional information contact the Dent County Extension office at (573) 729-3196.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will be meeting tomorrow at 5:30 in the R-80 Board Room. After the Call to Order and the Pledge of Allegiance the Board will approve the agenda and the consent agenda. Stacey Hall, Angela Dingess and Alivia Parker will share information with the Board. In the Superintendent’s Report CSIP Goals will be addressed in all reports, updates will be shared on the FEMA building, track, parking lots, and roofs. Building Handbooks will be reviewed, surplus bus bids will be considered, and the Personnel Handbook will be reviewed. Administration reports will be heard from William Lynch, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, Athletics and Activities, Special Education, Technology, and Maintenance. In new business the board will consider approval of the AMI Plan, hear second read of MSBA 2025B policy updates, hear first read of MSBA policy updates to leaves and vacation. Approve Baseline Salary Grant participation, track bid, parking lot bid, and 25-26 Personnel Handbook. They will also set meal prices for the 25-26 school year, tax rate hearing time and date, and August regular board meeting date and time. The Board will consider the hiring of Mystee Swank (WL Personal Aide) before adjourning and moving into Executive Session to consider personnel.

As summer temperatures rise, the Siteman Cancer Center is reminding the public to take steps to protect their skin and stay safe in the sun. Medical experts warn that any amount of tanning — and especially sunburn — can damage the DNA in skin cells. Over time, this damage can increase the risk of developing skin cancer and lead to signs of premature aging such as wrinkles, rough skin, and discoloration. According to Dr. McEvoy, a dermatologist at Washington University Medicine in St. Louis, skin damage from the sun affects people of all skin tones, and protection is important for everyone. To lower the risks, experts recommend using sunscreen with a sun protection factor, or SPF, of 30 or higher. A full adult application should be about an ounce, and sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours. Protective clothing is also key. Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats can shield the skin without the need for reapplication. Clothing with a high ultraviolet protection factor — or UPF — provides additional defense against harmful UV rays. For young children, shade and protective clothing are especially important. Sunscreen is not recommended for infants under six months, and active older children may require extra attention to ensure consistent coverage. Staying cool is also essential during the hot summer days. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and access to shade can reduce overheating. Hydration is just as important be sure to keep a bottle of plain water or a low-sugar sports drink nearby can help prevent dehydration during outdoor activities. Wearing a sun-protective shirt and wetting it down can help keep body temperature down while still protecting the skin. Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, but health professionals urge everyone to do so safely by taking simple, proactive steps to reduce sun exposure and stay cool.

The Missouri Department of Conservation reminds deer hunters to apply online from July 1st through the 31st for a shot at 145 managed deer hunts throughout the state. There are hunts for archery, muzzleloader, shotgun, and modern firearms from mid-September through mid-January at designated conservation areas, state and other parks, national wildlife refuges, and other public areas. Some managed deer hunts are held specifically for youth, beginning hunters, or for people with disabilities. Hunters are selected by a weighted random drawing. Draw results will be available starting August 15. Applicants who are drawn will receive area maps and other hunt information by email or mail. Get more information on managed deer hunts, preview hunt details, and apply starting July 1st at mdc.mo.gov/managedhunt. Details about managed deer hunts can also be found in MDC’s 2025 Fall Deer & Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information booklet available starting in early July at MDC offices and nature centers, from permit vendors around the state, and online at mdc.mo.gov.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. Cindy Jones with “We the People” was in attendance and she told the commission about Monday Movie Night from “Truthseekers” called “Understanding the Carbon Dioxide Pipeline.” She said it is a very informative and a good movie to find out about CO2 pipelines. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said the crews will be adding rock and grading on Dent County Road 5510 while only grading will be done on county roads 6420 and 6245. Rock will also be hauled where needed near county road 5510. Green said brush would be cut on county road 5460. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams said crews will be replacing six culverts on Dent County Road 2500 which will remain closed until the job is completed. Williams went on to report grading would be done on county roads 3190, 3260 and 5240 while patch grading will be done on Dent County Road 3270. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson stated he would be attending an Ozark Rivers Advisory Committee meeting Wednesday at the MRPC Offices to develop a 10-year vision for the area. Larson reported the next Industrial Development Authority meeting will be Wednesday evening in the Salem Public Library basement. Dent County Deputy Clerk Melissa Piatt stated that the clerk’s office balanced with the Dent County Treasurer’s office on all accounts for the month of June. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Thursday morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI) is highlighting Vehicle Theft Prevention Month this July. With vehicle thefts up 25% nationwide and occurring every 31 seconds, DCI recommends: Park in well-lit areas and always lock your vehicle. Hide valuables and never leave keys inside. Don’t leave running vehicles unattended and consider anti-theft devices. If your vehicle is stolen, contact law enforcement immediately, then your insurance carrier. DCI notes that auto policies typically only cover vehicle-related items. Personal belongings may require separate homeowners or renters’ insurance claims. Find more theft prevention tips at NHTSA.gov/theft.

The low water crossing on Dent County Route TT is now open following flash flooding and multiple repairs. After flooding in late April, the Missouri Department of Transportation assessed the damage and closed the roadway on April 22nd as it was no longer safe for vehicular traffic. Repairs were made and the roadway reopened May 13th. The crossing closed again in mid-June for further repairs, but additional flooding caused further damage to the roadway and washed out the previous repair work. Local maintenance crews were able to complete all repairs and reopen the roadway late Thursday afternoon of July 10th. In more news from MoDot, the following highway maintenance and construction work is planned in Dent County today through the 20th. Route K will have pavement resurfacing, which is scheduled to begin Monday, today from Missouri Route 19 to Route KK. One lane will remain open and flaggers with a pilot car will direct motorists through the work zone. According to MoDot’s news release the project is scheduled for completion in May 2026. Weather conditions may postpone scheduled work.

The Creative Arts Center will offer a “Summer Dayz Sign N’ Wine” evening with Danielle Norris on Friday evening, July 18th from 6:00 until 9:00. Come and get creative with your one of a kind front porch sign, or a square sign to be used inside or outside!  Lots of stencils are available to choose from and they are adding more all the time!  All supplies are provided, just bring snacks and a beverage!. You will be taught how to make the sign with teacher assistance. For a porch leaner, the cost is $30; and for a square 15×15 sign, the cost is $32. The class will be held with a minimum of six people signing up and will be limited to 16 people. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center. For more information, you can email them at salemartscenter@salemcommunitybetterment.com.