Local News

Once the water recedes, there will be damage not covered by insurance or other resources. Meramec Regional Community Foundation stands ready to help its Meramec counties during this devastating flood disaster. After flooding in 2015, Meramec Regional Community Foundation in partnership with the Meramec Regional Planning Commission, Community Foundation of the Ozarks and the MRPC’s eight counties established separate disaster funds to help with local recovery efforts. Those funds are still in place and stand ready to help with recovery from the flood of 2017. Disaster relief funds are ready to accept financial donations to benefit Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties. Distributions from the funds collected will be made only to local governments, nonprofit organizations and religious institutions participating in immediate and long-term recovery efforts within the designated community with oversight provided by the regional planning commission. Donations are tax-deductible. Contributions by check should be made payable to the fund of choice, as there is a fund setup for each of the eight counties in the region, and those can be mailed to the MRPC located at #4 Industrial Drive, St. James, MO. 65559 or CFO P.O. Box 8960, Springfield, MO. 65801. Online donations can be made at cfozarks.org/Meramec.

The City of Salem Utility Committee will conduct a meeting, called by Alderman Chad Heithold, Chairman of the Committee, tonight at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory beginning at 7:00 pm. The purpose of the meeting will be the reviewing of rates for 2017-2018. The meeting of the City of Salem Utility Committee is open to the public.

An accident occurred at 3:45 last Tuesday afternoon on South Washington Street at Highway 32 in Salem. According to the Salem Police report, a 2006 Ford Taurus SE driven by Serina Cottrell of Salem was southbound on South Washington stopped at a stop sign. The Ford started to make a right turn onto Highway 32 and made contact with a 2006 Ford F-150 driven by Hugh Plumley and owned by Nancy Caldwell of Salem that was traveling westbound in the outer lane of highway 32 approaching Washington Street. The Ford Taurus SE sustained minor damage. The Ford F-150 sustained moderate damage. A rear passenger sustained minor injuries and was transported by ambulance to the Salem Memorial District Hospital for treatment. The driver and a front passenger in the Ford F150 sustained probable, not apparent injuries and were transported by private transportation to the Salem Memorial District Hospital for examination. The crash was not investigated at the scene.

An accident occurred at 2:00 on the afternoon of Thursday, May 4th on Babb Lane in Salem. According to the Salem Police report, a 1999 Toyota Tocoma driven by Albert McCarter of Salem was traveling east on Highway 32 approaching Babb Lane. A 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Vanessa Downing of Boss was also traveling east on Highway 32 approaching Babb Lane and was slowing for an incident ahead on Craig Industrial Drive. McCarter failed to see the Jeep slowing for the incident ahead and made contact with the Jeep. The Toyota Tacoma sustained moderate damage and was towed from the scene with no injuries reported. The Jeep Gran Cherokee sustained moderate damage. Downing complained of a slight neck injury and south her own medical treatment. Both vehicles were moved prior to the officer’s arrival.

Today is the day some Dent County non-profits – Riverways Pregnancy and Family Resource Center, Bonebrake Center, and Salem Public Schools Foundation – will be participating in “Give Meramec”, a one-day, online fundraising event for agency partners of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks. To donate, please visit givemeramec.giveozarks.org.

On May 4th, Dent County deputies with assistance from troopers from the Missouri State Highway Patrol recovered the body of 69-year old William Floyd of Salem who was reported missing on May 3rd and was last seen on April 30th. Floyd’s vehicle was found overturned in a waterway approximately 800 feet from the nearest county road, County Road 2430. The vehicle was still mostly underwater and the back wheels and bumper were the only portions visible. The vehicle was removed from the waterway and Floyd’s body was discovered inside the vehicle. His body was released to Dent County Coroner Gina White. The Dent County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank David Ponzer and Herb Jones for their assistance in this case.

An accident happened in Iron County at 9:45 Saturday evening on Conservation Road 2754 about five miles east of Viburnum. According to the highway patrol report, 28-year old Isaiah Henseler of Bixby was riding his Yamaha Rhino UTV eastbound when the vehicle overturned ejecting Henseler and a passenger, 23-year old Skyler Westrup of Cherryville. Both suffered moderate injuries and were transported by ambulance to the Phelps County Regional Medical Center. The Yamaha had minor damage by was towed from the scene by Blackie’s Wrecker of Viburnum.

An accident occurred at 2:00 Thursday afternoon in Dent County on Highway 68 about one a half miles north of Salem. According to the highway patrol report, a 2003 Pontiac Sunfire driven by 16-year old Sarah Burrus of Salem was traveling southbound on highway 68. The accident occurred at the Pontiac crested a hill and Burrus lost control on wet pavement. The Pontiac slid off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree. Burrus suffered minor injuries and was taken to the Salem Memorial District Hospital by the Salem EMS. She was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Pontiac Sunfire sustained moderate damage and was removed by the owner.

The Salem Police Department released reports involving traffic violations, property damage, vehicle theft, and shoplifting. On Sunday, April 23rd at 10:03 at night, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The stop led to the arrest of a 24-year old Salem male for driving while having his license suspended. He was issued a summons to appear in court and released. On Monday evening, April 24th at 10:38, an officer was detailed to the McDonalds parking lot in reference to property damage. The report revealed that a person or persons unknown broke the door glass valued at $400.00 out of a 1985 Ford Bronco and took a backpack valued at $60.00. The report is under investigation. On Tuesday, April 25th at 4:54 in the afternoon, an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 1400 block of South Gertrude in reference to a vehicle theft. The report revealed that a person or persons unknown took a blue 2010 Chevrolet HHR valued at $4,500. The report is under investigation. On Wednesday, April 26th at 1:00 in the afternoon, an officer located a 28-year old Salem male who had an active arrest warrant from the City of Salem at Missouri Probation Services. He was taken into custody on the warrant and incarcerated pending a court appearance. That same afternoon at 2:25, an officer responded to Phil Mart in reference to shoplifting. The report revealed an unidentified female took merchandise from the store without paying for it. The report is under investigation. You are asked to call the Salem Police Department at 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

The Dent County Commissioners held their regular meeting Thursday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. In road reports, District One Commissioner Dennis Purcell reported that crews have been working to get all roads open, but there are still a couple roads closed, but have at least one way in and out. Crews are monitoring low water crossings and that they now have an additional backhoe to help with the situation. He wanted to thank the road crews for diligently working 13 hour days in trying to cope with the damage from the weekend rains, plus the latest additional rain of anywhere from 2-3 inches. He stated that it would take several dry days before some of the softer roads could even begin to have any form of reconstruction work done on them. District Two Commissioner Gary Larson reported that crews were out repairing roads. He stated that patching as well as materials would be hauled to Dent County Roads 2150 and 2120 while materials only would be added to county road 2313. Dent County Road 2300 has been temporarily closed off of DD Highway until the water goes down whereby at that time the safety of the road can be assessed. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles wanted to remind everyone to please be careful driving over low water crossings. Skiles reported that he and Commissioners Purcell and Larson along with Dent County Sheriff Wells went to the Texas County jail in Houston for a tour of the facility. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported that bills were being approved. The Road and Bridge Department had taken phone bids for fuel and Phil Mart was awarded the bid of $1.63 a gallon for 7,000 gallons of diesel fuel while County Fuels LLC was awarded the bid of $1.75 per gallon for 1,000 gallons of regular fuel. Steve Davis with Shive-Hattery came in to visit about the jail, proposed design and stated that he would like to have a CM (construction manager) on board before June. The Commission discussed and agreed 3-0 to seek RFC’s (Request For Qualifications) for a CM. Requests are due by May 24th at 4:30 pm in the County Clerks Office. Those requests will be opened on Thursday, May 25th at 10:00 am. Betty Gettemier stopped with a signed petition of residents on Dent Count Road 6350 requesting a speed limit sign of 25 MPH be posted on the road. The Commission voted 3-0 to approve the request and signs will be posted. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The City of Salem’s Capital Improvement Committee will be conducting a meeting, called by Alderman Haydn Powell, Chairman of the Committee, on Monday, May 8th at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory beginning at 7:00 pm. The purpose of the meeting is to review 2016-2017 projects and proposed projects for 2017-2018. The meeting of the City of Salem Capital Improvement Committee is open to the public.

On Tuesday, May 9th, a Dent County non-profits – Riverways Pregnancy and Family Resource Center, Bonebrake Center, and Salem Public Schools Foundation – will be participating in“Give Meramec”, a one-day, online fundraising event for agency partners of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks. Using the power of the Cause Momentum crowd-funding website, nonprofits from Meramec Region will have the chance to raise funds, compete for matches and prizes and be a part of a one-day, 24-hour period of giving across the state. Give Meramec is from midnight to midnight on May 9th. Riverways hopes to raise $2,000 for their parenting education programs and baby supplies to at-risk families in our area. Bonebrake hopes to raise $5,000 to “glam” the bathroom in their facility. The Salem Public Schools Foundation is a way to donate back to Salem Public Schools and school organizations. On May 9th, donors can log onto givemeramec.giveozarks.org and search for these local nonprofits to complete a basic credit-card donation. All donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the IRS. Over the past two years, the region-wide online giving day, known as “Give Ozarks”, has raised more than $2 million for more than 150 non-profits across the region. Thousands of donors made online gifts ranging from $5 to $10,000 to support non-profits. For those wishing to donate in person, they may come to the Bonebrake Center at 601 North Hickory Street between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm and if you chose to donate prior to the event, call the Bonebrake Center at 729-3400 or the Riverways Pregnancy and Family Resource Center located at 1600 Doss Road. For more information about the organizations participating or how to donate, please visit givemeramec.giveozarks.org or call Meramec Regional

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors held their May meeting Tuesday evening at the fire station. After approval of the minutes from the April meeting, bills were reviewed and approved for payment and there was a budget review as well. During a review of the district calendar it was noted that personnel will participate at Serendipity May 11th from 8:00 am to noon, a hazardous mitigation meeting from 2:00 to 4:00 at the old city hall on May 15th and conducting several tours of the station for elementary age students during the month of May. The monthly reimbursement report for April showed that there were 15 calls that included: three calls for structure fires, three calls for brush fires, one call for a landing zone, three calls for vehicle accidents, three calls for mutual aid and two calls for training. Total calls for year to date are 111. There was no old or new business but during reports, Fire Chief Brad Nash reported that he had been in contact with the McLiney Company and they are willing to work with the fire district for money to finish the station upgrade projects. Nash asked the Board to sign the underwriting, which does not bind the district to anything but will allow the McLiney Company to go forward. The Board approved his request. Nash then presented the Board with a copy of the invitation to bid for items that the district has to be sold and the Board approved the list and asked Chief Nash to go forward. For more information about the items stop by the fire station, call 729-3250 or find them on Face book. The Board then set their June meeting for Tuesday, June 6th at the fire station beginning at 6:00 PM and the meeting was then adjourned.

The Salem Police Department released some reports. On Thursday, April 20th at 8:03 in the morning, an officer was detailed to the 600 block of East Roosevelt in reference to a theft. The report revealed that a person or persons unknown took 8′ x 18′ plastic loading runners valued at $600 from a demolition site. On Friday, April 21st at 10:00 in the morning, officers of the Salem Police Department and the Dent County Sheriffs Department served a search warrant at a residence on county road 4180. Officers recovered a 2015 Honda Grom motorcycle that had previously been reported stolen. A second motorcycle that was stolen during the theft with the Honda Grom, a 2004 Kawasaki ZX6R, was recovered in Viburnum. On Saturday evening, April 22nd at 9:17, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The report led to the arrest of a 26-year old Salem female for stealing merchandise valued at $76. She was issued a summons to appear in court and released. On Sunday, April 23rd at 2:23 in the early morning, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The stop led to the arrest of a 28-year old Salem male for driving while being intoxicated and driving while having his license suspended. He was issued summonses to appear in court and released. At 7:32 that night, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The stop led to the arrest of a 32-year old Salem male for driving while having their license suspended and on an active fugitive arrest warrant from Laclede County. He was issued a summons to appear in court and was incarcerated on the warrant pending extradition. That same night at 8:47, an officer responded to a residence on Ray Lane in reference to theft of a vehicle. The report revealed a 28-year old Salem male took a 2002 black Pontiac Aztec with out having permission to take it. On the same date, the suspect and vehicle were located near North Grand and Rolla Road. He was taken into custody for 1st degree tampering with a motor vehicle, possession of a controlled substance and no operator’s license and was incarcerated pending warrant applications. You are asked to call the Salem Police Department at 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

The Ozark Artisans Exhibit at the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center (ONCRC) opens May 30th at 202 South Main (Hwy 19) in Salem. Sponsored by the Spring Creek Artisans of Salem and the Current River Artists of Licking, it will feature works by artists and artisans from the Ozarks. The beauty and resources of the Ozarks have inspired artists and artisans since settlers first came to Missouri. Here in the Salem Plateau area, we are blessed with talented individuals who are skilled in wood carving, quilting, pottery, basket weaving, engraving, fine arts and other time honored skills. The exhibit is free to the public. There will be a Meet the Artisan Reception at the ONCRC on Monday, June 5th from 6-8pm. To participate in the exhibit, contact the ONCRC by calling 573-729-0029 or emailing them at oncrc@salemmo.com. Registration to reserve an exhibit space closes May 22nd. Again, the deadline to provide your input is Wednesday, May 31.

The Salem Board of Aldermen met Monday night at the city hall council chambers. The Executive Director of Healthy Dent County Sherry Lea discussed with the alderman they would like to apply for another NAP grant through the MRPC to add a gymnasium to the Salem Community Center@The Armory. The NAP grant would provide $500,000 worth of tax credits and they have already been awarded a $250,000 grant that would go toward the project. The total cost of the gym would be about 1.2 million dollars, but the initial amount would be enough to construct the basic gym with other amenities to be added as they raise the money. In order to apply for the NAP grant, Healthy Dent County had to have a current lease running through five years after the expected completion date which would be 2024. So Lea asked to extend the lease between the City of Salem and Heathy Dent County for another ten year through 2027, and that Mayor Brad Nash be allowed to sign the NAP form that states the construction would not be in conflict with any city ordinances or policies. The board approved the request for the new lease and also to allow Nash to sign the form by a 3-0 vote with Alderwoman Shelton abstaining. The board approved the request from Chris Raulston for the Current River Cruisers to close off the streets around the courthouse square with the exception of an area around the Corner Café for the annual car show. Mayor Brad Nash says that a booklet has been prepared for those who want a buy a plot in the Cedar Grove Cemetery as well as the upkeep of the property and the gravesites. There was a discussion on mausoleums and Mayor Nash will review other policies from other cemeteries to bring before the board. These booklets would be available at the city hall, cemetery and funeral homes. The board approved the quote to purchase $16,000 worth of fireworks for 4th of July that will be paid for by $7,400 left in the fireworks fund, a $4,000 request from the tourism tax commission, $1,500 from the CFO Fireworks fund plus possibly a budget adjustment. The board approved renewing the current health insurance policy that features the same rate as last year with a few minor changes in deductibles and the prescription plan. If the city wanted to bid health insurance policies before renewing, there would be an additional rate increase of 2.57% for their current plan. City Administrator Ray Walden said a meeting has been set up to discuss and implement the plans for the TAP Grant and the Unlimited Play All Accessible Playground grant. He also said that a kickoff event for GRO will be held on Wednesday, May 10th with volunteers meeting at the Farmers Market at 6:00 to then disperse to different service events. Walden also said the city would be updating the Economic Development position information in their search for an Economic Development Director. Mayor Brad Nash said the city crews were out taking pictures of any damages from storms this weekend in case Dent County would be included in a Federal Disaster Area. Nash said individuals should also take pictures and document any flood or storm damages in case the area is included as a disaster area. People who would like to submit a damage report with an estimated dollar value to Nash should call him at the fire station at 729-3250. He said there is nono guarantee that anyone will receive funds. The board approved a number of board and committee nominees from Mayor Nash to fill openings. The board also approved the purchase of a Rascal MVP infield machine for field prep from ABI for $4,963 as requested by Parks and Recreation Director Tye Lydon. The board then went into closed session to discuss real estate and contracts.

On April 27th, the Missouri Conservation Commission named Leo A. Drey as the 43rd member of its Hall of Fame for his lifelong advocacy for conservation. Drey’s induction ceremony was held at the L-A-D Foundation’s annual barbeque in Salem. Conservation Commissioner David Murphy was on hand to bestow the honor to Drey’s family. Drey passed away in May 2015 at age 98. His conservation efforts focused on acquiring parcels of land to establish the 150,000-acre Pioneer Forest, which covers parts of Dent, Carter, Reynolds, Ripley, Shannon, and Texas counties. He then donated the land to the L-A-D Foundation, which he established as an organization dedicated to preserving areas of outstanding natural or cultural resource value. Drey was dedicated to preserving areas of outstanding natural or cultural resource value. Over the years, he purchased and donated more than a dozen such areas to the Foundation. These sites include state-designated natural areas leased to MDC, areas leased to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources for state parks, 35 miles of frontage on the Ozark National Scenic Riverways under scenic easement to the National Park Service, lands transferred to Mark Twain National Forest, and other special designations within Pioneer Forest.

The Doe Run Company is asking its neighbors for input. Now through Wednesday, May 31st, Doe Run will be collecting feedback from community members about the company, its operations and its contributions to the community. They do these surveys every couple of years to gauge how they are doing in the eyes of the community and they ask that you consider sharing your thoughts in a short survey. You can access the survey online at www.doerun.com. The survey consists of a short set of questions that’s estimated to take about five minutes. Again, the deadline to provide your input is Wednesday, May 31.

The Dent County Commission held their regular meeting Monday morning at the courthouse. At the meeting, Casey and Renee Hemken, Chris and Patty Shaver, and Randy and Judy Wilmont from the Adams Subdivision were in attendance to discuss the improper drainage of water coming through their subdivision and flooding people’s basements and crawl spaces. They say the ditches on the east side of the roadway have filled in over time and the culverts are clogged forcing the water onto private property and into the lagoon that serves the property that is regulated by DNR. Commissioner Dennis Purcell said that the county could pull the ditches but the culverts needed to be replaced, and the counties long standing policy is the landowners would have to buy the new culvert where the county would replace the old ones at no cost. The group felt that the county was responsible to maintain those culverts, but many have been in there for 30 to 40 years and Purcell said those culverts have deteriorated and need to be replaced. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles suggested that Purcell meet with the landowners to review and discuss what can be done to alleviate the water problem. Dent County Emergency Director Brad Nash was at the meeting and had been in contact with SEMA and he told the commission that there was not any official federal designation of a disaster area yet as there must be at least 8.5 million dollars in damage in the state and he sees no problem with Missouri reaching that level. He told the commission to just continue to have the work crews take pictures and document the damages to all the bridges, roads and low water crossings. He also said individuals who have suffered losses can contact him at the Dent County Fire Station at 729-3250 or by going to the fire department’s Facebook page. Those people should also take photos and document any damages to their property, and then figure an estimated dollar amount of the damages. In the road report, Commissioner Purcell reported there was a landslide on Dent County Road 6660. He said between 9 and 12 inches of rain had fallen and numerous roads and low water crossings are impassable. He along with Commissioner Gary Larson reported that it will take a number of days and in some cases weeks to get the roads back in regular condition. Larson said that right now crews are just trying make the roads passable so that people can get to work and students can go back to school. He did mention the commission would be taking bids on diesel and regular unleaded fuel, and that the county will be looking to rent an additional backhoe from either Fabick or John Deere to aid in the cleanup. Presiding Commissioner Skiles stated that between 80% and 90% of all Dent County Roads sustained some damage and with 600 miles of roads in Dent County alone, it will take some time to get all the problems taken care of. At the last meeting, the commissioners signed Ordinances 2017-1 and 2017-2 regarding the passing of Propositions 1 and 2 sales tax issues for the building of the new jail. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released some reports. On Monday, April 24th, deputies took a report of a theft from the 31000 block of South Highway 72. Taken from the residence is a black fiberglass “Roll A Home” motorcycle camper and is 4 feet wide by 6.5 feet long. The camper and its contents were valued at $6,000. This report is still under investigation. That same day, deputies responded to the Shawnee Mac Lakes a reported fire. Upon arrival, deputies discovered that someone had set an archery target on fire destroying the target. The Dent County Fire Department responded and extinguished the fire. The investigation continues by the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Dent County Sheriff’s Office. On Wednesday, April 26th, deputies responded to the 4100 block of Highway 68 for a well being check. After deputies made contact with the individual that they were checking on, it was discovered that he had a warrant for his arrest. As a result, 21-year old Samuel McDaniel Jr. of Salem was arrested and transported to the Dent County Jail. He was incarcerated after being unable to post bond. That same day, deputies assisted the South Central Drug Task Force with executing a search warrant in the 100 block Route O. As a result of the search, 40- year old Kathy Eplin of Edgar Springs was arrested and taken to the Dent County Jail. She was charged with possession of a controlled substance and is currently incarcerated on a $50,000 cash only bond. If you have any information on any ongoing investigations, please call the sheriff’s office at 729-3241.

Due to the flooding in the area and the uncertain condition of rural roads in the area, all Salem and Dent County schools cancelled their classes for today including Salem Headstart and the Ozarks Hills State School #61.

With Dent County receiving unofficially anywhere from seven to ten inches of rain, numerous roads were closed in Dent County over the weekend with a number of county roads closed due to the flooding. Roads that were closed by MoDOT in Dent County were Highway 119, and Route TT, A and EE. It is also worthwhile noting the Interstate 44 was closed Sunday from Lebanon to Rolla and Highway 63 near Vienna was closed. The highways and routes will reopen once the water recedes and the highways are checked for structural damages.

An accident happened in Pulaski County on Route D about five miles west of Jerome Sunday at 12:20. According to the highway patrol report, a 2004 Buick Rendezvous driven southbound by 31-year old Casey Ousley of Rolla, went off the right side of the roadway. Ousley overcorrected causing the vehicle to return to the road before it ran off the left side of the road and overturned several times before coming to rest on its top. Ousley suffered moderate injuries and was transported to the Phelps County Regional Medical Center by the Dixon Ambulance. Ousley was wearing a seat restraint. The Buick was totaled in the accident and was removed from the scene by Davis Towing.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released a number of reports. On Thursday, April 13th deputies responded to the 3000 block of Route VV for a report of a disturbance. Upon arrival, deputies made contact with 29-year old Amber Webster of Rolla. It was discovered that Webster had three active warrants, one from Dent County for probation violation, one from Rolla Police Department for traffic offense, and one from Phelps County for theft. She was arrested, transported to the Dent County Jail, and incarcerated. On Thursday, April 20th, deputies conducted a traffic stop at Highway 19 and 32. As a result of the stop, 23-year old Michael Schum of St. James, was arrested for driving while having his license revoked. Schum was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. That same day, deputies responded to a call for a reported theft. Upon arrival, deputies were informed that a John Deere 468 Mega Wide baler, valued at $25,000, had been taken from under a carport at the residence. This report is still under investigation. If you have any information on any ongoing investigations, please call the sheriff’s office at 729-3241.

The City of Salem Board of Alderman will be conducting their meeting tonight at the City Hall Council Chambers beginning at 7:00 pm. During the hearing of persons, Sherry Lea, the Executive Director of Healthy Dent County, wants to discuss extending the lease at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory and the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) grant that Healthy Dent County is writing to build a new gymnasium. Also during the hearing of persons, Gary Cook with the Current River Cruisers is requesting permission from the Board to close the streets around the courthouse for the Annual Car Show on June 17th. In bids, the City had requested bids to purchase a used backhoe and City Administrator Ray Walden will present the bids. After approval of the agenda, Mayor Brad Nash will present to the Board of Alderman proposed rules and regulations for the cemetery for the Board’s approval. Walden will update the Board on various projects both current and future concerning the City of Salem including fireworks for the 4th of July, a health insurance update and other issues concerning the city. Mayor Nash will follow with his report on various issues. In new and miscellaneous business, Mayor Nash will present his nominations to City Board’s and Committees with the Board’s approval. Parks and Recreation Director Tye Lydon will then be requesting permission to purchase equipment to help maintain the park’s ball fields. The Board will then vote to go into closed session for the purpose of discussing real estate and contracts. The regular meeting of the City of Salem Board of Alderman is open to the public.

The Dent County Commission held their meeting Thursday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. In the road reports, both District One Commissioner Dennis Purcell and District Two Commissioner Gary Larson wanted to remind residents that with the amount of rain which has already fallen and with the anticipated amounts expected over the weekend, please do not drive through rising water at low water crossings, water flowing over the road, or areas that are ponding. The ground is already saturated and with any amount of rain received over the weekend, there could be several temporary road closures. If a sign has been posted, turn around: it is not worth risking your life or the life of anyone in your vehicle. They went on to say that as soon as the weather breaks, those roads that have had washouts problems will be addressed as soon as possible. Purcell then reported that his district had received several calls on removing downed trees. He reported a crew would be working on some electrical issue with the pup trailer as well as working on dump trucks #117 and #123. He also said that the order of polypropylene culverts that were ordered came in and would be separated for use. Larson reported crews were out checking roads for downed trees and washouts. He went on to say work was being done on the hydraulics on a brush cutter. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles wanted to remind folks about the Veterans Affairs Day today from 10:00 am until 2:00 at the American Legion/VFW Post in Salem. 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.

In closed session on April 18th at the SMDH Board of Directors meeting, they approved a contract with Rural Sleep Solutions to provide sleep studies at the SMDH Hospital. The hospital will have to be certified first, and they hope to be able to start offering these services in the outpatient area around July 1st. The board also approved a Nursing Scholarship for Samantha Smith from the LPN to RN Bridge Program. The board then approved providing a Pharmacy Internship through the St. Louis College of Pharmacy from May of 2017 to February of 2018. The meeting was then adjourned.

The Salem Police Department released reports involving a shoplifter, a fight, a domestic disturbance, a burglary and property damage. On Sunday, April 16th at 2:16 in the afternoon, an officer was detailed to Wal-Mart in reference to a shoplifter. The investigation of the report led to the arrest of a 30-year old male of Salem for stealing merchandise valued at $38.71. He was issued a summons to appear in court and released. That night at 7:04, an officer was detailed to the parking lot at Missouri Highway 32 and 19 in reference to a fight that had taken place. The report revealed a 16-year-old male juvenile of Salem had been assaulted by a 16-year old male juvenile of Rolla. The report is under investigation. On Monday evening, April 17th at 5:30, an officer was sent to a residence in the 100 block of North Carty in reference to a domestic disturbance. The report revealed a 30-year old Salem male had assaulted a 26-year old Salem male. Further investigation led to the arrest of the suspect who was incarcerated pending the application for warrants. On Wednesday, April 19th at 8:34 in the morning, an officer was detailed to a building in the 700 block of South Grand in reference to a burglary. The report revealed someone unknown took a 2015 Honda Grom motorcycle valued at $4,500.00 and a 2004 Kawasaki ZX6R motorcycle valued at $3,500.00 from a building. The report is under investigation. There is a reward offered for the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for stealing the motorcycles. Later that night at 8:53, an officer was detailed to the Scenic River Center West building located in the 800 block of Highway 32 in reference to property damage. The report revealed someone unknown broke a window valued $465.00 with a rock. The report is under investigation. You are asked to contact the Salem Police Department at 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

The National Day of Prayer will be held on Thursday, May 4th during the noon hour at the Grace Community Church on Water Street. Those who will be participating can envoy a light lunch at 11:45 and prayer time at 12:15 along with the National Anthem and the Pledge of Alliance. For more information, call 729-4573.

On Tuesday morning at approximately 10:00, deputies with the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Crabtree Rd. and the Huzzah Creek bridge for the report of a body found in the creek. Upon their arrival, deputies located the deceased and with the assistance of the Highway Patrol were able to recover the body from the creek. During the course of the investigation deputies were able to determine the person was involved in an ATV accident which led him being ejected from the ATV and into the creek. The person was later identified as 60-year old Franklin “Frank” Aaron of Steelville. The Crawford County Sheriff’s Department believes this to be just a tragic accident as there is no indication of foul play. They also want to thank everyone who assisted in the investigation and to the person who located the dead body and immediately called it in to authorities.

An accident occurred at 12:15 on the afternoon of Thursday, April 13th on the MFA parking lot in Salem. According to the Salem Police report, a 2004 Chevy Blazer driven by Larry Newby of Centerville was parked in the MFA west parking lot facing north. While backing, Newby accelerated rapidly and struck a 2010 Ford Fusion owned by Mary Pax of Salem that was parked and unoccupied facing east. Newby continued backing, veered off the Ford and struck a Dodge Ram 1500 owned by Vernell Botkin of Boss that was parked and unoccupied facing west. The impact of the Dodge Ram 1500 caused it to slide striking a 2004 Ford Ranger owned by Shirley Lewis that was parked and unoccupied facing east. The Chevy Blazer continued backing across Babb Lane and struck a 2003 Chevy Silverado owned by Jeremy Schwebel of Salem that was parked and unoccupied facing south. The Chevy Blazer came to a it’s final resting position facing east in the ditch on the west side of Babb Lane. No injuries were reported. The Chevy Blazer, the Ford Fusion and the Chevy Silverado sustained extensive damage and were towed from the scene. The Dodge Ram 1400 sustained moderate damage while the Ford Ranger sustained minor damage.

How do I get help for my preschooler in Dent County???? This Friday at 11:00 am, there will be an informative meeting about the DEVELOPMENTAL PRESCHOOL and the services it has to offer children in Dent County. You will find out how to refer a child for testing, what services such as Speech/Language Therapy and Special Instruction are available for each child, how does the Developmental Preschool coordinate services with other local agencies such as Parents As Teachers, First Steps, and the Salem Headstart, and more. The meeting will be held at the Developmental Preschool at 102 North Jackson St in Salem in the old Salem Library building. For more information please contact Stephanie Floyd at 729-2578. This meeting is open to the public, both professionals and parents are encouraged to attend.

An accident occurred at 6:43 Wednesday morning in Maries County on Highway 63 about three miles north of Vienna. According to the highway patrol report, a 1998 Honda Civic driven by 25-year old Trevor McCallister of Rolla was traveling northbound on highway 63 and failed to negotiate a curve. The Honda Civic slid off the roadway and struck several trees. McCallister suffered minor injuries and was transported by the Maries Osage ambulance to the Phelps County Regional Medical Center. He was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Honda Civic was totaled and removed from the scene by Plaza Towing.

Come to the Bonebrake Center of Nature and History on Monday, May 1st at 7:30 p.m. to experience exciting views of the solar system and the galaxy. Joe Shuster and friends will be on site using powerful telescopes, including the Bonebrake Center’s kid/adult-friendly telescopes, dubbed “Charles” and “Shirley,” to explore the spring sky. The event will start at 7:30 p.m. when there is still a bit of light so the presenters can explain the telescopes and allow kids to operate them to view the planet Earth. All are welcome to bring personal binoculars or telescopes as well. This program is appropriate for the whole family and will be mostly outdoors, so come prepared for the night air. There will be access to the house and light snacks. The suggested donation is $1.00 per person or $5.00 for the whole family, but no one will be turned away. Registration is not required, but you can leave a message at the Bonebrake Center 729-3400 or e-mail at bonebrakecenter @embarqmail.com for more information. If it appears the night sky will be too cloudy, the program will be rescheduled, if possible. Registrants may call or text 247-0279 on the afternoon of Monday, May 1st if there is a question about a possible cancellation.

The Salem Police Department has released a number of reports. On Wednesday, April 12th at 11:03 in the morning, an officer was contacted at the station in reference to property damage. The report revealed someone unknown caused damage valued at $400.00 to the driver’s side door on a black Mitsubishi Eclipse that was parked in the 1400 block of South Water. The report is under investigation. On Thursday, April 13th at 5:54 in the afternoon, an officer located a grey 2016 Nissan Sentra that had been reported stolen from a rental corporation. The vehicle was recovered and will be returned to the owner. Late that night at 11:32, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The stop led to the arrest of a 22-year old male of Salem Friday, April 14th at 4:46 in the afternoon, an officer was detailed to Aaron’s Rental in reference to a theft. He report revealed that a for driving while having their license revoked. He was issued a summons to appear in court and released. On person or persons unknown took a refrigerator valued $845.00 from the back dock of the business. The report is under investigation. On Saturday, April 15th at 10:59 pm, a vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation. The stop led to the arrest of a 25-year-old male of Salem on an active arrest warrant from the City of Salem. He was released after posting bond and given a new date to appear in court. You are asked to contact the Salem Police Department at 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

The Missouri State Board of Nursing will conduct a site visit this Friday at the SBU Campus in Salem. The visit will be about the expansion of the Bridge-RN program at the University’s Salem campus. The Mercy College of Nursing & Health Sciences of Southwest Baptist University have named the program the Dr. Tracy and Debbie Dobbs Department of Nursing of Mercy College of Nursing and Health Sciences? Southwest Baptist University LPN/Paramedic Bridge – RN Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) Program. The availability of the program will be contingent upon board’s approval.

The Friends of the Salem Public Library will conduct an open meeting on Monday, May 1st at the library building at the corner of 4th Street and Jackson Street beginning 5:00 pm. Interested individuals are welcome to attend the meeting.