Local News

The Dent County 4-H and FFA Expo kicks off Tuesday, July 16th at The Commons with the setting up of the Exhibit Entries. Those entries will be judged starting Wednesday morning, July 17th at 10:00. Wednesday evening at 6:00 will be the Dessert Auction. Entry forms are available at the Dent County Extension Office or call them at 573-729-3196 and they can e-mail you an entry form. Dessert items must be brought in between 3:00 and 5:00 to the multi-purpose building at The Commons that Wednesday afternoon. On Thursday, July 17th, livestock registration will be from 9:30 until 11:30 and all livestock MUST be in place by 11:00. Weigh-ins are scheduled to start at 12:00 with the Small Animal Show beginning at 3:00. The “Pig Pals” practice will be at 4:00 with the show to follow at 5:00. The exhibitor and family supper will be held at 6:00. On Friday, July 18th, the shows will kick off at 7:00 in the morning with the hog show, followed by the Sheep and Goat Show. The Beef and Dairy Show will start at 2:00 Friday afternoon followed by the Buyer’s supper at 6:30. Saturday morning, July 19th, 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 Radio (AM 1340 and FM 95.7) and also live streamed on KSMO Media (ksmoradio.com, KSMO Stream Facebook and the KSMO YouTube Channel.) For additional information contact the Dent County Extension office at (573) 729-3196.

The countdown to the 2025 Missouri State Fair is on, and organisers are encouraging Missourians to take advantage of advance ticket deals and a packed entertainment lineup. The Fair runs August 7th through 17th in Sedalia. Advance admission and carnival tickets are available now through August 6th, offering significant savings for fairgoers. Adult admission tickets are priced at twelve dollars in advance which is a three dollar savings. Unlimited carnival wristbands tickets are available in advance for twenty-five dollars, a . A bundled “Daily Deal” option, which includes admission and unlimited rides for one day, is available for thirty-seven dollars, a savings of eighteen dollars. During the 11-day Fair, regular-price tickets and daily specials will also be available. Full details can be found on the Missouri State Fair website at mostatefair.com. This year’s State Fair Grandstand, presented by CFM Insurance, will host eight concerts, two tractor pulls, and one auto race. Concert highlights include: Wynonna Judd with The War and Treaty on opening night, August 7th. Followed by Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, and Spin Doctors on August 8th, Oliver Anthony with Davisson Brothers Band on August 9th, And closing out the concert series with Jon Pardi and Karley Scott Collins on August 16th. Concerts on select nights will be followed by fireworks and drone shows, sponsored by Missouri S&T and VisitMO.com. All grandstand concert tickets are sold separately from gate admission. Children under two may attend concerts for free but must sit on a parent’s lap. Other scheduled events during the fair include The Governor’s Ham Breakfast on August 14th, featuring Missouri Grown foods and attracting leaders in agriculture and state government. Tickets are fifty dollars and include gate admission. For more information, schedules, and a full list of ticket locations, visit MoStateFair.com.

Interstate 44 nightly core drilling operations are ongoing. Crews from the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) will be obtaining core samples at various locations between Conway and Rolla. Work is planned overnight, 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., Monday through Friday, through July 22nd. Motorist can expect intermittent single-lane closures, both directions, and expect delays. Core drilling allows for a detailed examination of the layers of roadway and supporting geology below the roadway surface. By studying the samples obtained in the cores, the project team can make more informed decisions on design and material elements for future work along I-44. Motorists are advised to use extra caution through work zones, obey all traffic signs, and avoid any distractions.  For traffic updates or other transportation-related matters, please call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636) or visit their Traveler Information Map.

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said the crews will be grading Dent County Roads 6350, 6410, 6420, 6480 and 6485 while brush will be cut on county road 6460. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams said two grader operators were out so brush will be cut on Dent County Road 2300. Williams reported crews will be installing a driveway culvert on county road 3090 and rock will be hauled to that location, plus crews will be doing patch work on county road 3210 over a culvert and on a low-water bridge. Williams went on to say that six large culvert pipes are being taken to Dent County Road 2500 for extensive work that will begin on Monday. Once that work begins Monday, Dent County Road 2500 will be closed until the work is completed. Dent County Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said he attended the Meramec Regional Community Foundation meeting in St. James at the MRPC offices on Wednesday. The MRCF’s mission is to enhance the quality of life in the eight-county Meramec region through resource development, community grant making,  collaboration and public leadership. This meeting concentrated on aiding numerous Phelps County organizations with help from the tornado damages they suffered this spring. He said the community had raised around $100,000 that was placed in a fund at the MRCF. Larson stated that eight organizations received funding totaling $71,388 and they included Russell House which received $1,388; with $70,000 going to seven other organizations with each getting $10,000. They included the Phelps County Faith Foundation, Community Partnership Foundation, Phelps County Fairgrounds, Rolla Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Phelps Health Foundation, Salvation Army and Choices for People. Larson also stated the county received a letter from the state to help provide funding for the remonumentation of the established surveyed Public Land Survey System corners. The commission will be in touch with the county surveyor on this. At the last meeting, Collector Shannon VanKirk reported the monthly collections from June which came to $109,342.33. The next meeting of the commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors met Tuesday at the Fire Station at #2 South Main. The bills were then reviewed, approved and signed, showing a remaining balance of $363,879.20. The budget was reviewed and approved with only the firefighting equipment line item being over budget by 34%. The monthly reimbursement report showed a total of 14 calls for June and 157 calls for the year-to-date. There were four calls for fires, four for medical assistance, one utility problem, one hazmat call, one accident, one alarm, one agency assist, and one call was classified as other. In old business, the board discussed truck purchases, but that was tabled until the next meeting. The radio grant the fire district was hoping to get was canceled by the US Government. The board also discussed the old Fidelity tower lease, but that was also tabled until the next meeting. The board approved to allow the board president to sign the intent resolution for bond expenditures allowing the reimbursement to the Dent County Fire Protection District general fund for the expenditures paid from the general fund prior to receiving bond finances. The board also approved using the Bank of Salem for the payback of the bond service, and to use Progressive Ozark Bank for the items purchased with bond monies. Treasurer Dave Wells reminded the board the Tax Hearing would be held in August where the board will have to set the new tax rate, The date will be determined once the paperwork is sent to the department with the assessment figures from the clerk. He also said the state auditor form “C” will need to be filled out and filed. To get that done, the district will supply the figures from the clerk to L.J. Hart and Company to develop the levy calculations and available options for the debt service levy. Chief Dennis Floyd reported that truck #8026 was out of service due to an engine malfunction. The board heard quotes from John Knight and Chief Floyd on bunker gear and elected to go with Banner Fire Equipment Inc. who is a distributor of Fire-Dex products. Fire-Dex is a manufacturer specializing in firefighter Personal Protective Equipment, particularly known for its innovative and protective gear for first responders that complies with NFPA rules. The decision to get the dual compliance gear was made quickly in order to save $20,000 as the price will go up July 14th. Chief Floyd asked for an early reimbursement for Earl Jarvis Jr which was approved by the board. The next meeting of the Dent County Fire Protection District will be Tuesday, August 12th at 6:00 at the fire station.

A Dent County resident was involved in an accident Sunday afternoon at 1:00 on I-44 at the 155.2-mile marker. According to the Highway Patrol report a westbound 2019 Mitsubishi Eclipse, driven by a 60-year-old Salem woman, hydroplaned off the left side of the roadway and overturned. The woman suffered minor injuries and was transported by Pulaski County Ambulance to Phelps Health in Rolla. The report stated that the woman was wearing a safety restraint. The Mitsubishi was secured roadside for later tow.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports the following 2025 July Fourth holiday statistics for the counting period from 6:00 Thursday evening, July 3rd, through 11:59 Sunday evening, July 6th. Troopers worked nine boating crashes, which included four injuries and zero fatalities. Troopers made 13 boating while intoxicated arrests. There were no drownings over the Independence Day holiday weekend. In 2024, there were 10 boating crashes, which included seven injuries and no fatalities. No one drowned during last year’s July Fourth holiday while troopers made 12 boating while intoxicated arrests. This year on the roads, troopers worked 246 traffic crashes, which included 115 injuries and eight fatalities. Troopers also made 114 DWI arrests. During the 2024 counting period, 14 people were killed and 560 injured in Missouri over the holiday in 1,366 traffic crashes. Last year during the counting period, troopers arrested 149 people for driving while intoxicated. The fatality statistics could change if late deaths occur, or if other departments report late fatalities.

The Salem Board of Aldermen held their regular meeting Tuesday evening at 6:00 in the City Hall Auditorium at 202 N. Washington Street. After approving the agenda and consent agenda, the board made several committee appointments: Carrie Sutterfield was officially appointed as the new Economic Development Director, and Sherry Lea was reappointed to another term with the Housing Authority. The board also held second readings of several bills, including Bill No. 3673, which aimed to maintain existing electric rates but failed due to lack of motion. Bill No. 3674 was approved, amending section 700.090 of the city code to update electric rate structures. Under the new ordinance, commercial customers will pay a $12.00 service availability charge and $0.1308 per kilowatt-hour (KwH), with a minimum charge of $52.32 for 400 KwH or less. Residential customers will be charged an $8.00 service fee and $0.1276 per KwH, with a $25.52 minimum for 200 KwH or less. Bill No. 3675 also passed unanimously, requiring a demand meter for customers who have a monthly kilowatt demand (KwD) of 25 or more over the past 12 months. These customers will now pay $0.1240 per KwH and $3.60 per KwD, in addition to a $12.00 service fee. Bill No. 3676 was unanimously approved as well, providing Employment Incentive Rates for commercial customers that meet the program’s eligibility requirements. Under this program, they will pay a $12 monthly service fee, plus $0.0875 for every kilowatt-hour, and $5.63 for each KwD. All new rates are effective immediately. During the City Official’s reports City Clerk Tammy Koller thanked the cemetery staff for their continued work, and Mayor Greg Parker expressed appreciation to everyone who helped organize the Fourth of July festivities. Public Works Director Steve Paine reported on ongoing street repairs and reminded residents to call the main office for concerns with pavement repair. Parks and Recreation Director Melissa Dubois noted that the city pool is operational but Westport Pools has been scheduled to inspect the pump as it is running rather loudly. She also announced upcoming flag football sign-ups. Newly appointed Economic Development Director Carrie Sutterfield introduced herself to the board. Alderman Letchworth offered prayers to flood victims in Texas, and Alderwoman Dent thanked the community for their support of the Salem Choir’s Independence Day performance. The meeting adjourned to an executive session to discuss attorney-client privileges.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning in the courthouse. In the road report, 1st District Commissioner Keith Green said grading would be done on Dent County Roads 6435, 6490, 6540 and 6550, while rock will be added to county road 6230 and brush is expected to be cut on county road 6450, but that could be delayed. Green said a tree would be removed from county road 5015 and crews will be checking on some roads after the intense rains from the weekend. Green also reported the county put out for bids for a 1,000 gallons unleaded fuel for the Road and Bridge Department with County Fuels having the lowest price of $2.55 per gallon. District Two Commissioner Jimmy Williams stated patch grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2115, 3270, 3273 and 3275 while brush will be cut on county road 3290. Williams indicated a new culvert was being installed on Dent County Road 3300 where additional rock will also be taken. Williams reported a grader is in the Anutt area to repair storm damage in that area. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson announced he will be attending a Meramec Regional Community Foundation meeting Wednesday, July 9th at the MRPC offices in St. James. Larson also complimented Commissioners Jimmy Williams and Keith Green for doing a good job in light of the continuous severe weather occurrences that have occurred this year that have virtually destroyed some roads, having to deal with FEMA and SEMA claims which takes a lot of time through detailed documentation, and trying to stay within the budget. Larson, who was a 2nd District Commissioner for 15 years, said instead of slowly progressing learning curve, both these commissioners have had to deal with numerous situations calling for immediate decisions and action, prioritizing the most serious work to get done first. He said this means some roads have not gotten the usual attention that they have in the past and again is asking for people to be patient as the work crews are doing the best they can. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley wanted to remind everyone that Route TT in Sligo suffered more damage from storms and will remain closed for the foreseeable future. The commission signed a letter of support for the Scenic Rivers Industries to apply for a grant to get a new paper shredder as their previous shredded was destroyed in their building fire. Jeff Banderet from Great Rivers Engineering was in to present to the commission their bid booklet for the request for qualifications for the upcoming FEMA projects. They were the only RFQ the commission received, and they approved going with Great Rivers Engineering on the project. Banderet said he will put together their full scope of service for the projects and submit the price in a couple of weeks. Banderet did update the commission on the FLAP project which is the back road into Montauk State Park. He said archaeologists made some “findings” and Great Rivers submitted their results to MoDOT and are waiting on their response. MoDOT may want to have a “Phase 2” evaluation of the proposed plan, or Banderet said they may have to use the existing road system. This would need a “Phase 1” archaeological evaluation, and the cost would be about $20,000. He will let the commission know what MoDOT says. Also on the sidewalk TAP grant around the courthouse, Great Rivers is waiting on bids from lighting manufacturers to see if they can come up with ways to find a more economical solution to match the lighting system of the city such as the lights being powered by solar. He says burying the electric is the most expensive option and they hope to find something more affordable. Banderet went on to say new applications for FLAP projects for the years 2028 through 2030 will be due this October 1st and if the county had another project they would like to submit, they would need to let Great Rivers know so that an application can be prepared by then. The next meeting of the Commission will be Thursday morning at 9:00 at the Dent County Courthouse and the meeting will be open to the public.

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 consider appointments of Carrie Sutterfield to the MRDC Board and Sherry Lea to the Housing Authority. The second reading of Bills No. 3673 through No. 3677, all pertaining to establishing rates for electric services provided by the City of Salem, will occur followed by reports from city officials. The Board will then go into closed session pertaining to legal actions, litigation, and/or confidential or privileged communication, followed by adjournment.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors will meet this evening at 6:00 at the Fire Station at #2 South Main. After the call to order, roll call, and approval of the consent agenda, which includes review of minutes, financial report and approval of bills, and budget review. The monthly reimbursement report will be considered. In Old Business the Board will consider truck purchases, radio grant, and Fidelity (CTI) Tower Lease. New business will include bank accounts for bond. Chief Floyd will then report followed by the setting of the date for the next meeting. The Board may go into closed session, if needed, followed by adjournment. In their last meeting the treasurer reported that strong local support was reflected in the fact that bonds had been sold to the Bank of Salem for $190,000, Progressive Ozark for $330,000, Edward Jones in the amount of $275,000, and $570,000 to Town and Country Bank. Bills, payments, and statements were reviewed and approved. In old business insurance coverage for the department was discussed with American Insurance bid of $25,995 and Town and Country Insurance bid of $28,441. The Board approved the bid from American Insurance. Brush truck purchases were discussed relative to several different skid units and trucks. Nothing was decided since the units were not readily available. A motion was made and carried to send a payment of $20,000 to hold 2 trucks, which would save $30,000.

An accident occurred Sunday afternoon at 4:30 on Dent County Road 5610 eight miles west of Bunker. According to the Highway Patrol report a westbound 2025 CAN-AM Defender HD10, driven by a 12-year-old male juvenile from Mocksville, North Carolina, travelled around a corner, began sliding, and overturned. A 14-year-old male juvenile from Bunker suffered serious injuries and was transported by Bunker Fire Department to Salem Memorial Hospital. The report stated that both juveniles were wearing safety devices. The CAN-AM was removed by a private party.

These reports were released from the Dent County Sherriff’s office for June. On Sunday June 22nd deputies responded to the 200 block of County Road 4170 for a disturbance call. A 39-year-old Salem woman was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. Later that same day deputies responded to the unit block of County Road 4220 for an animal complaint. The investigation is ongoing. Then on Thursday June 26th deputies conducted a traffic stop at the roadside park on N. Highway 19. An occupant of the vehicle was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. The investigation is ongoing. The next day Friday June 27th deputies conducted a traffic stop on W. Highway 32 near Highway 72. The operator was arrested for driving with a suspended or revoked driving privilege and transported to the Dent County Jail. If you have any information on an ongoing investigation, please contact the sheriff’s office at 573-729-3241.

The Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) and the city of Salem are seeking public input to assess community needs and wants to increase active transportation networks in Salem. The public is encouraged to take a short survey on how individuals utilize transportation and identify safety concerns with the roadway systems at https://mrpcsurveys.typeform.com/SalemATP. The MRPC received a grant from the Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) to create an Active Transportation Plan for the city of Salem that will focus on dedicated bicycle routes and accessible support parking. According to Senior Community Development Specialist Orin Pogue, active transportation is vital to encouraging and increasing physical health, connectivity, and community activity. For more information, please contact Pogue at opogue@meramecregion.org or Planning Manager Anne Freand at afreand@meramecregion.org; or call 573-265-2993.

At the Creative Arts Center on Saturday, July 12th from 1:00 until 4:00 in the afternoon, take a treasured Little Golden Book and personalize it with additional pages, pockets, and tags with Gail Phelan. The “Altered Little Golden Books” class is open to anyone 10 years of age (with a parent) to adult with a minimum of four people signing up to a maximum of eight people. Students will use brightly colored papers, buttons and fabric to embellish and expand our Little Golden Books which will be available or bring your own. Students will add hidden places for notes and stickers. The cost is $20 per person and this includes all supplies. 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 Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson was not in attendance due to a prior commitment. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley appointed District 1 Commissioner Keith Green as acting Presiding Commissioner. In the road report Green said that his guys were off Thursday and Friday for the holiday. He said they have been working on repairing storm damaged roadways. Green said his crew may be able to get back to grading next week. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported that his crew worked late on Wednesday in order to get Dent County Roads 5300, 3310, and 4300 safely passable as those roads had suffered severe storm damage over the weekend, especially at the low water crossings. Williams wanted to give citizens a heads up that Monday a farmer that has cattle guards on county road 3180 will be pulling those up to perform some maintenance. Motorist will still be able to travel the road as there are gates that will be open to go around the work. Curley reported that she balanced with the collector, assessor, and treasurer on all monthly collections, add-ons, and abatements for the month of June and that the commissioners had her reports to review. She noted that bills were being approved by the commissioners and that the courthouse would be closed Friday in observance of Independence Day. Curley also noted that Monday the commissioners would be opening bids at 10:00 for engineering services. Zach Moser, Dent County Health Center Administrator, was in to give on update on activities including a CPR Course that had 8 participants. Moser also reported that the Community Health Assessment deadline for the survey is July 15th and that June 30th was the deadline to meet food codes. The commissioners agreed 2-0 sign the Scenic Rivers Industries cardboard pick up enrollment agreement form and SRI will pick up twice a week for $250.00 per month. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be this morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting will be open to the public.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen held a special meeting last Monday evening at 6:00 in the Old City Hall Auditorium, located at 202 N. Washington Street. The meeting agenda was approved after the removal of the closed session. The Board conducted first readings of four ordinances: Bill Nos. 3674 through 3677, relating to proposed changes in electric service rates. The recommendations stem from a recent rate study conducted by Utility Financial Solutions, LLC (UFS), which suggested reinstating a service availability fee: $8 per month for residential customers and $12 per month for commercial customers. Additionally, UFS recommended reducing residential and demand kilowatt-hour (kWh) rates by 2% annually over the next three years, while increasing commercial kilowatt demand (kWd) rates by 8% each year for the same period. This adjustment aims to address the current imbalance, where residential customers are effectively subsidizing commercial users. The Aldermen will vote to either maintain the current rate structure or adopt a tiered system, as recommended by UFS at their next regular meeting. The Board approved Bill No. 3678, authorizing Change Order #5 with Donald Maggi, Inc. for the ongoing Salem Sidewalk Improvements Project. The change includes a timeline extension and an additional cost of $4,581.60 to allow the contractor to order the appropriate meter bases for new downtown streetlights. The Board also considered Bill No. 3679, which outlined a balanced proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, projecting approximately $27.8 million in revenues and $26.7 million in expenditures. The budget includes $3.9 million in intergovernmental transfers. Discussion centered on whether to reduce a $5,000 allocation from prior airport funds intended for a new electronic gate. Mayor Greg Parker called for a motion to approve the budget, but the initial motion failed for lack of a second. A subsequent motion by Alderman Kinsey to approve the budget with the $5,000 removed also failed to gain support. After further discussion, Alderman Whelan moved to approve the original budget without adjustments. The vote ended in a tie, which Mayor Parker broke by voting in favor, noting that although the funds are allocated, they may not be used if deemed unnecessary. The Board also passed Resolution No. 23-2025, approving a Technical Assistance Contract for Floodplain Administration with the Meramec Regional Planning Commission, and a bid from Nexgrid for the purchase of eight large-capacity electrical meters at a total cost of $5,196, which includes an 18% tariff charge. Revisions to the City’s credit and debit card processing system were also approved, eliminating fees for in-person card payments (excluding online convenience fees), discontinuing auto-pay via debit and credit cards, and ending the use of the U.S. Bank card reader effective July 30, 2025. 

The Salem Police Department released an update regarding the reported shooting last Wednesday night at the 700 block of south Elmer. The Salem Police responded after receiving information that a shooting had taken place. A victim was found shot, rushed to the ER, and later flown out for treatment. The reported shooter remained inside the residence and refused to comply with officers’ commands to exit. A perimeter was established with the assistance of the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and Highway Patrol. Rolla SWAT responded to the scene to assist. The reported shooter, now identified as Timothy Shipp, was taken into custody without incident after a prolonged standoff. A probable cause statement was filed with Dent County Prosecutor, Andrew Curley, and a warrant was issued by Judge Kelsaw for one Count of Assault 1st Degree, and one Count of Armed Criminal Action, both felonies. Shipp is currently being held without bond. The investigation is ongoing. All subjects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education met last Thursday in the R-80 Board Room. After the Call to Order, the agenda was approved followed by an Executive Session for the purpose of discussing student issues. The Consent Agenda was approved followed by the Superintendent’s Report including Dr. Wills documenting CSIP Goals addressed in all reports. Dr. Wills then updated the Board on the FEMA building construction and the 2025-2026 budget proposal. Reports were then heard from administrators. In new business the board approved a resolution to make all applicable transfers from Funds 1, 2 and 4, and to participate in the state salary grants. First readings of MSBA 2025B Policy Updates, UE Policy Updates, and MSBA UE Policy Updates were provided. Motions were made and approved to amend the 2024-2025 budget to reflect actual expenditures and revenues, the 2025-2026 PD Plan, the SLP-A Contract with Alcorn Therapy & Consulting, and the contract with Communication Development, LLC. Surplus property was approved for 75 desks, 40 wooden chairs, and Bus #2. Nathan Wills and Traci Wulff were approved as the authorized personnel for the Salem R80 lock box at the Bank of Salem, Jason Green as signatory on the general account for Salem R80 at the Bank of Salem, and the removal of Phillip Mercer as signatory. Motions were moved and approved for a Construction Trades out of state trip, the RTI consortium agreement, the Cahill Construction, Inc. change order (hand dryers and heaters), the Compass Health MOU, the Developmental Preschool Lease, the audit bid from Schultz, Wood & Rapp, P.C., the UE roof bid from GRP Wegman, and the 2025-2026 budget. The Board addressed the transfer of Melissa Plank from 1st to 4th grade, the hiring of Teresa Wilken as UE paraprofessional, Tonya Sanders MS secretary, and resignations or retirements of Middle School secretary Shelly Kerr, WL paraprofessional Elizabeth Brown, and MS paraprofessional Lynn Mast. The Board then adjourned and moved into Executive Session to consider personnel.

Colonel Michael Turner, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, reminds Missouri’s travelers to make smart choices for a safe July Fourth holiday. Whether planning to visit one of Missouri’s recreational opportunities or hosting a backyard barbecue, everyone should make safety part of their plans. No matter how you decide to celebrate, your smartest choice is to follow all Missouri traffic or boating laws. During the 2024 counting period, 14 people were killed and 560 were injured in Missouri over the Independence Day holiday in 1,366 traffic crashes. Last year during the counting period, troopers arrested 149 people for driving while intoxicated. All available troopers will be patrolling Missouri roadways to enforce traffic and boating laws, and offering assistance as needed. The Highway Patrol will participate in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort). And for those on the water, the Highway Patrol will participate in Operation Dry Water. Operation Dry Water specifically targets impaired vessel operators. Missouri’s boaters are asked to do their part by remaining alert for other boats and swimmers and being courteous on the water. In 2024, there were 10 boating crashes, which included seven injuries and no fatalities. No one drowned during last year’s July Fourth holiday. Troopers made 12 boating while intoxicated arrests over last year’s Independence Day holiday weekend. The 2025 July Fourth holiday counting period will begin today starting at 6:00 in the evening, and lasting through 11:59 Sunday night, July 6th. Anyone needing assistance or who witnesses criminal activity while traveling on Missouri’s roadways can contact the nearest Highway Patrol troop headquarters by calling the Patrol Emergency Report Line at 1-800-525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will offer four kayaking programs in July, including sessions on the Big Piney and Meramec Rivers near Salem. Participants will learn kayaking safety during ground school, then receive paddling instruction and practice on the water. Fishing poles and bait will be provided for those wishing to fish from kayaks. Programs include Introduction to Flatwater Kayaking from 3:30 to 6:00 in the afternoon July 7 at Little Prairie Conservation Area’s Towell Lake north parking lot. Three Introduction to Stream Kayaking sessions are scheduled: 9:00 in the morning to 3:00 in the afternoon July 12 at Big Piney River Bridge on Western Road; 8:45 in the morning to 4:00 in the afternoon July 19 at MDC Scotts Ford Access on the Meramec River; and 8:45 in the morning to 4:00 in the afternoon July 26 at MDC Woodson K. Woods Highway 8 Access on the Meramec River. Participants will be shuttled to starting points for stream programs. Dwight Warnke, MDC conservation educator and program instructor said that, floating down streams and paddling around lakes are fantastic ways to enjoy Missouri’s great outdoors. Whether your passion is angling, wildlife watching, or simply drifting downstream, a day on the water will lift your spirits. Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets will be provided. Participants 13 and older may register, with those under 18 requiring an adult. Close-toed shoes are required, and participants 16 and older must possess a valid fishing permit if they plan to fish. Registration is available online at mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com by searching for specific program dates. More events can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.

The Creative Arts Center will hold a Sunday Crafting starting July 6th and held every Sunday through January 27th from 2:00 until 6:00 with Nicole Curtis. If you need a place to spread your crafts out or don’t like to do crafting alone, bring your supplies to the Creative Arts Center and hang out, spending time with other crafty people. You do have to have all your own supplies and only the front room and bathrooms will be available. The class is open to all those 16 years of age and older with a suggestion donation of $5.00 that goes towards utilities. No children without an adult please. 

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson was not in attendance due to a previous commitment, so District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams was selected the acting presiding commissioner. Cindy Jones from “We the People” handed out an article from the Missouri Independent that reported that some voter-approved bonds in April have violated the Missouri Public Notice Law meaning the Missouri Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick cannot certify. None of these bonds were from Dent County. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said his crews would be checking for washouts in his district and repair the roads needing attention, but he said many of his crew members would probably be helping District 2 which had much more damage from the rain this weekend. District 2 Commissioner Williams said crews would be assessing damage to roads in the Sligo and Boss areas, as well checking for downed trees, prioritizing which roads will get repairs first. They will make sure that everyone will be able to get out as workers will be working late. Dent County Collector Shannon VanKirk said time has run out to apply the SB190 Homestead Real Estate Tax credits for 2025. VanKirk said she has received over 390 applications which she presented to the commissioners for their signature. Anyone not applying this year for the tax credit will have to wait until next year starting April 1st for the SB190 Homestead Real Estate Tax credits for senior citizens. VanKirk also said if you had delinquent taxes from 2022 and didn’t get them paid Monday, starting today you must pay all delinquent taxes from 2022, 2023 and 2024 to keep from having your property being advertised for a tax sale on the courthouse steps. Checks will not be accepted for those taxes in the collector’s office and payments will need to be made in cash or by a cashier’s check. As of Monday morning, VanKirk said there were still 22 properties that have outstanding taxes from 2022. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said the deadline for businesses in Dent County that sell liquor to get their county license was Monday. This is in addition to the state license that is required. Businesses that didn’t comply cannot legally serve alcohol until they get a county license. Those with questions need to call the county clerk’s office at 573-729-4144.  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.

As more Americans plan July 4th celebrations, the Division of Fire Safety is reminding Missourians to put firework safety first this Independence Day. Public fireworks displays not only offer the best sights, they are the safest, but if folks choose to use consumer fireworks, please handle them with extreme caution and do not allow children to use fireworks. Remember, within the city limits of Salem, the discharge of fireworks is legal for individuals 18 years of age or older, or those under the supervision of a parent, guardian or person 18 years old or older between the period of July 1st and July 6th. By ordinance, those discharging fireworks may only do so between the hours of 8:00 in the morning until 10:00 at night except on July 4th when the hours shall be 8:00 in the morning until midnight. Only Class 1.4G fireworks in unmodified form shall be discharged. Fireworks sales at seasonal retailers are legal in Missouri starting June 20th and lasting until July 10th. Please keep in mind that July 4th is not only the busiest day of the year for fireworks, it is the busiest day of the year for fires, especially when conditions are exceptionally dry. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2023, eight people across the United States died as the result of fireworks while another 9,700 people were treated for injuries in hospital emergency rooms nationally with children under 15 years of age accounting for 31% of the 2023 injuries. The Product Safety Council also said that about 43% of selected and tested fireworks were found to contain illegal components that could cause severe injuries. In Missouri, about 328 people sought hospital care related to fireworks with 291 of them were treated and discharged from the emergency room. According to the report, 267 of those firework-related injuries were in the three weeks leading up to the 4th of July. Missourians who choose to use consumer fireworks should only use fireworks in a large open space that has been cleared of flammable materials, make sure to have a garden hose or a bucket of water nearby in case of a fire, only light fireworks one at a time; never try to re-light fireworks that have malfunctioned, and dispose of fireworks by soaking them in water and leaving them in a trash can. For questions or concerns about firework safety, firework rules, or firework dealers, contact the Division of Fire Safety at (573) 751-2930.

The 4th of July Celebrations in Salem kicks off with the Salem Community Choir at the Salem Civic Center. The first performance is at 2:00 in the afternoon, then again at 4:00. Just in time to head down to the parade route and pick a spot. The parade starts at 6:00 in the evening. At the conclusion of the parade head over to the Salem City Park and check out the vendors and food trucks, while we wait for the fireworks show at dark.

The Salem Planning & Zoning Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and meeting this evening at 6:00 at 202 North Washington in the Old City Hall Auditorium. After the call to order the Board will recognize anyone that wished to speak to three requests. Number 1 is a request for subdivision of a parcel located at 803 East Center Street owned by Bean Properties, LLC. Request number 2 is for R3 zoning (multifamily residential) of a 14.36-acre property owned by Brady and Micah Adams located in the 1000 to 1200 block on the north side of West Roosevelt, contingent upon annexation by the Board of Aldermen. The third request is for approval of the plat for the 14.36-acre property owned by the Adams on West Roosevelt, contingent upon annexation by the Board of Aldermen. The hearing will be closed, and the public meeting will be called to order to consider acceptance or rejection of the three requests. Planning and Zoning Mapping Direction will also be considered prior to adjournment.

The Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors convened its regular meeting last Tuesday evening at 7:00, in the Doctor’s Library at the hospital. Following roll call, the Board noted a correction to the meeting agenda, clarifying that the gathering was a regular session rather than a special business meeting as originally labeled. Minutes from the previous meeting were approved with minor corrections. During her CEO Report, Brooke Bollman informed the Board that the hospital recently underwent an unannounced CMS Recertification Survey. While the survey identified several areas of insufficiency, Bollman emphasized that the hospital already has plans in place to address and correct the noted issues. She also reported that efforts are underway to update the hospital’s price transparency information on its website, in alignment with federal guidelines. Additionally, Bollman confirmed that the hospital will conclude its discussions with Phelps Health regarding a potential affiliation, bringing those conversations to a formal close. Bollman also delivered the Summary of Operations for May, reporting that inpatient admissions, outpatient registrations, emergency room visits, and ambulance runs remained consistent with previous months. Financially, the hospital reported a total operating revenue of approximately $2.9 million and operating expenses of about $2.1 million, resulting in a net profit of around $770,000 for the month. The hospital’s 340B pharmacy program contributed a net gain of $75,841 in May, and the facility currently has 26 days of cash on hand. The Board unanimously approved the financial report. Chief Nursing Officer Amber Hogan provided an update on staffing, noting three open positions across various departments. She also shared efforts to establish a local chapter of the Nurses’ Honor Guard, an organization that recognizes the dedication and service of nurses. Kendra Mobray presented the Human Resources and Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) reports, noting that the hospital welcomed seven new hires in May while four employees left their positions. A total of 117 patient surveys were received—an increase from April—with an average satisfaction rating of 4.82 out of 5. There were 28 risk reports filed, primarily related to documentation errors, and the hospital continues to focus on identifying and addressing systemic issues. In old business, the Board approved the $36,403 purchase of TruCode, a medical coding software designed to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of healthcare documentation and billing. Under new business, the Board approved revisions to policies and procedures across several hospital departments, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve operations and compliance. The Meeting then adjourned. The next regular Board of Directors meeting will be held July 29th at 7:00 in the Doctor’s library. 

In the Dent County Associate Circuit Court Thursday in front of Judge Nathan Kelsaw, Rolando Solis of Steelville pled guilty to the possession of methamphetamine. He was sentenced by Judge Kelsaw to five years in the Missouri Department of Corrections as requested by Dent County Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Curley.

The Arcadia Valley Chamber of Commerce will again partner with Missouri State Parks and Battle of Pilot Knob State Historic Site to celebrate Independence Day with a fireworks display Friday, July 4. The event will go from 7:00 to 10:30 p.m. on the historic site grounds. The event is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring insect repellent and a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. For more information, contact the site’s office at 573-546-3454. The Battle of Pilot Knob State Historic Site is located at 118 E. Maple in Pilot Knob. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

There will be a special meeting of the Board of Alderman this evening at 6:00 in the Old City Hall Auditorium located at 202 North Washington Street. After call to order, roll call, and approved agenda the board will have first reading of Bill 3673, Bill 3674, Bill 3675, Bill 3676, and Bill 3677. These bills all are an ordinance establishing rates for electric services provided by the City of Salem. Next is Bill 3678 an ordinance authorizing the mayor to execute Change Order No 5 with Donald Maggi, Inc. for the Salem sidewalk improvements project. Then Bill 3679 an ordinance adopting an annual budget for the City of Salem. Up next is Resolution No 23-2025 authorizing the mayor to execute an agreement between the city and the Meramec Regional Planning Commission for technical assistance. The board will also discuss credit and debit card processing charges and Bid-3 phase demand meters before going into closed session.

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson was not in attendance due to prior commitments. District 1 Commissioner Keith Green acted as the temporary Presiding Commissioner. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams presented the PILT monies received and that total came to $186,132.00 which is $7,814 more than last year. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Green said the crews will be grading around the Highway 119 area and then move towards Montauk. He also said a crew was going to repair some washouts on Maledy Ford and Dent Ford Roads. He said all graders were in operation. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams said rock would be added and grading done on Dent County Roads 2210, 2360 and 3250. He said grading would be done on county roads 4020, 4270 and 4280 that will be used more now with the MoDOT closure of Route TT in Sligo. Williams also indicated that brush would be cut on Dent County Roads 3260, 3270, 3273 and 3275.  He also said the county has been reimbursed $30,100 from the Department of Conservation for the work the county did on the roads leading to conservation areas. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reminded businesses that the Liquor License renewal deadline is June 30th and there are still 10 businesses that have not yet renewed their license. Grant Wilson from Representative Jason Smith’s Rolla office was in and said Smith continues to work on the passage of the Trump “One Big, Beautiful Bill” by Independence Day. Commissioner Green said bids were taken for red dye diesel fuel and the low bid was County Fuels at $2.48 per gallon. Dent County Collector Shannon VanKirk said people have until June 30th to pay their 2022 real estate tax bill to keep that property from being sold on the courthouse lawn. VanKirk said any payment now needs to be made with cash or a cashier’s check. Personal checks will NOT be accepted. At the last meeting, Kevin Crider from the University Extension came to the meeting to discuss the feral hog situation. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be this morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

On Wednesday, June 25th in the 42nd Judicial Court held in Dent County, Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Curley reported that Isaac Ghormley of Salem, who was currently serving an imposed sentence in the Department of Corrections for the Possession of a Controlled Substance, pled guilty to the possession of methamphetamine. He was again sentenced to serve seven years in the Department of Corrections as recommended by Prosecutor Curley.