Local News

The Dent County Commission met for its meeting Thursday morning at the courthouse. Under road reports, First District Commissioner Keith Green reported that crew members have fixed the backhoe but are off today. They will be back to grading next week. Second District Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported that crew members have been preparing County Road 6150 for chip and seal in June and have been working on maintaining culvert pipes. Crew members graded County Road 3223, along with Wagner Cemetery’s County Road 3225 in preparation for Memorial Day holiday. Potholes have been filled on several chip and seal roads. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson reported that there is a State Cyber Crime Grant Program available through the Missouri Department of Public Safety. The funds will be awarded to reduce internet crime against children and improve public safety through investigations, forensics, and prevention. Any unit of state or local government within Missouri may apply for these grants. Learn more by visiting mo.dps.gov and searching “State Cyber Crime Grant.” Under public comments, a representative from Cintas, a janitorial equipment supplier company out of Springfield, discussed the county potentially switching suppliers. Commissioners informed the representative they would compare prices and products and get back to the representative at a later date. Sherman Odom presented and discussed with commissioners specifications of a road being laid for a newly built subdivision consisting of 11 lots. Commissioners recommended a wide enough area at the end of the road for county vehicles to turn around in. Deputy County Clerk Melissa Piatt reported that bills are to be approved, and that the County Clerk’s office will be reviewing and verifying any petition signatures out of the county that may come in from the state office. Currently, it is unknown if there will be any signatures to verify or which petitions may come in. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams reported on sales tax receipts received for May. General Revenue and Law Enforcement received $107,188.39. Compared to last year, this is an increase of $18,662.72 and an increase YTD of $24,632.27 or 6%. The Road and Bridge fund received $53,594.25, which is an increase from last May of $9,331.58 and an increase YTD of $19,053.32 or 8.6%. Lastly, both Jail funds received $107,517.61, which is an increase of $18,576.69 for the year and an increase YTD of $38,006.58 or 8.5%. The Dent County Courthouse will be closed on Friday, May 8th, in observation of Truman Day. The next meeting of the commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 in the courthouse, and the meeting is open to the public.

Out of an abundance of caution, the Dent County Fire Protection District was contacted and arrived on site to the Middle School due to an alarm sound emanating from the intercom system. No fire was found, nor were any alarms pulled. The prompt response of the local fire department was immensely appreciated. 

The Ozark Riverways Foundation will be holding its annual fundraising event Rendezvous on the Ridge from 9:00 in the morning to 8:00 in the evening this Saturday at Big Rock Candy Mountain in Jadwin. Attend the annual fundraiser to support the National Park in the Missouri Ozarks. As well as food, vendors, arts, music, workshops, and fun, this year’s celebration will also host 14 local authors including Sarah K. Mason, Titus James Benton, Dr. Mark Morgan, and Matt Ankney. And don’t forget the mule jump which is to take place at 1:00 in the afternoon. Meanwhile, the concert to be held at 6:00 in the evening is free to attend, with Dennis Stroughmatt and band L’Esprit Creole taking the stage. Be sure to bring a lawn chair and dress weather appropriate. For more information, visit ozarkriverwaysfoundation.org/events.

Chairman of the Utility Committee Alderman Nathan Kinsey has called for a utility committee meeting to be held tonight at 6:15 at the City of Salem Auditorium. The committee will hear reports from the chairman, review a draft budget with capital improvement projects being noted, discuss water tower maintenance contracts, testing of meters through a contract service with Advanced Meter Services, LLC, replenishing the reserve fund as well as discuss rates for water and wastewater. Also at the meeting, the committee will discuss two code amendments dealing with backflow prevention device installation and inspections as well as the royalty and marketing agreement with the service line warranty program. In reports, the committee will review financial updates in the budget and the impact on each fund from the rate discussion, as well as discuss billing updates. The committee will review the MMMPEP and MPUA meeting notes and get work reports from the utility crews. They will also hear information about and discuss the current utilities construction in progress as well as planned capital improvements before the meeting is adjourned. The meeting of the utility committee tonight is open to the public.

The City of Salem’s Parks and Recreation Board met for its meeting Wednesday at the Old City Hall Auditorium. After the call to order, roll call, and approval of the minutes of last Wednesday’s meeting, the board reviewed and discussed the proposed budget. Finance Director Stacey Houston made adjustments to the proposed budget, including an increased sales tax projection of 2% based off of the current fiscal year. The increase put an additional $15,523 toward revenue; however, a $14,406 deficit remains, which will need to be reconciled by either cutting expenses or through the use of the prior year’s fund balance. Board member Luke Heithold sought clarification on the budget, including line item “Building Maintenance,” which has a proposed increase for heaters in the maintenance building, and line item “Pool Maintenance,” which has a proposed increase in order to fix a leak and pay for de-winterization. Heithold additionally sought clarification for the increase to line item “Special Services,” which in previous years had an average of approximately $1,400 but has a projected year-end of $7,500 and is budgeted at $5,500 within the draft budget for 2026-2027. City Administrator Sally Burbridge clarified that the item increase for the year-end is due to the recent parking lot resurfacing requiring an engineer to provide a no-rise certificate due to the parking lot location on the floodplain. With the plan to resurface the pool parking lot for 2026-2027, similar permitting may be required. Following discussion, the board approved the budget for the 2026-2027 FY, with the $14,406 to come out of Parks and Recreation Prior Year’s Funds. The vote was 4-0-2, with Heithold and board member James Taylor abstaining. The board then adjourned.

Kids’ Fishing Day at Maramec Spring Park is sure to be a great outing for young anglers and will be Saturday, May 16th, hosted by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) in cooperation with The James Foundation, for children 15 years of age and younger. The Kids’ Fishing Day event will be held from 6:30 in the morning to 8:15 in the evening. The entire upper half of the spring branch will be reserved for kids 15 years of age and younger. Free daily fishing tags for children will be available to pick up Friday, May 15th, at the James Foundation Store and on Saturday, May 16th, at the Mill Pavilion by the big tent. Any car that has a child 15 and under gets into the park for free as well. A limited number of loaner fishing poles will be available, but children are encouraged to bring their own fishing poles and equipment. The World Bird Sanctuary will be on hand featuring live birds of prey to meet and greet. Everyone can enjoy free hot dogs and soda, along with attractions like archery. Maramec Spring Park, owned and operated by The James Foundation, is located on Highway 8 about six miles east of St. James.

A Salem Community Blood Drive is right around the corner on Tuesday, May 12th, to be held at the First Baptist Church of Salem at 201 North MacArthur Avenue. The event will be hosted by the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks with appointments encouraged to minimize wait times but walk-ins welcome. To make an appointment, call 417-227-5006. Donor rewards include a free t-shirt and voucher for several nearby attractions.

The City of Salem’s Parks and Recreation Board will meet this afternoon at 5:00 at the Old City Hall Auditorium. After the call to order, roll call, and approval of the minutes, the board will review and approve the budget, which will be followed by adjournment. The meeting was called by Parks and Recreation Board President Carlos Lopez.

Due to weather, the starting date for the project to replace the driving surface of the Little Piney Creek Bridge on Route 63 at Yancy Mills has been postponed. Originally scheduled to begin Tuesday, contractors working with the Missouri Department of Transportation now plan to narrow Route 63 to one lane at the bridge today. In order to leave one lane open during construction, temporary traffic signals will be in place to direct vehicles safely through the work zone. All work is weather-permitting, and schedules are subject to change.

There will be a work day to help clean up Craig Plaza this Saturday, May 9th, at noon and volunteers are welcome. Chris Price and Jimmy Robbers will be leading the Craig Plaza team. Give whatever amount of time you have and don’t forget to bring some gloves! There will be weeds to pull as well as mulch to be spread. All help will be greatly appreciated! There will be more work days announced in the future to help keep the plaza looking great! If you have any questions, call or text Chris Price at 573-205-1671.

Dent County Health Center has released that it received two awards from the opioid settlement funds this year. One of those awards focused on establishing three 24/7 Community Overdose Response Boxes in high-visibility, accessible locations. The boxes will provide free, anonymous access to naloxone, overdose response instructions, and harm reduction supplies, with the goal of preventing opioid-related overdose deaths and increasing community readiness to respond to overdose emergencies. The Overdose Response Strategy team of the Department of Health & Senior Services shared that a total number of 34 fatal drug overdoses occurred between the five year period of 2020-2024. The 15 to 34 age group made up 21% of fatal drug overdoses over the five year period, while the 35 to 54 age group made up 50%. The 55+ age group made up 26%. The less than 15 age group made up about 3%. The report shows that Dent County continues to experience the impacts of the opioid epidemic. Signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose include small, constricted “pinpoint pupils,” falling asleep or loss of consciousness; slow, shallow breathing; choking or gurgling sounds; limp body; discolored skin (especially in lips and nails.) Narcan, also referred to as Naloxone, is a proven, life-saving intervention. It works to block the effects from opioids like fentanyl, heroin and prescription painkillers. By reducing barriers and increasing community readiness, the 24/7 Naloxone Boxes strengthen community safety and will help prevent opioid-related overdose deaths. Three boxes were made on April 17th and delivered by April 22nd. The boxes feature instructions on how to respond to an opioid overdose emergency, and a QR code to show how to use naloxone. To date, the Health Center has placed two of the three boxes at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory and the Salem Public Library.

The City of Salem Animal Shelter located at 1401 Mullnack Drive is accepting donations and could always use a little help from the community. The open office hours of the animal shelter is from Monday through Friday from 8:30 in the morning to 3:30 in the evening. Donations can be dropped off directly at the animal shelter during open hours. Donations sought include clumping kitty litter, dry kitty food, or dry dog food. If you’re able to donate, even a small bag makes a big difference. Your kindness helps staff and volunteers keep every pet fed, healthy, and comfortable while they wait for their forever homes. For more information on the Salem Animal Shelter, visit its Facebook page run by a group of dedicated volunteers by searching “Friends of Salem Animal Shelter, MO.” 

MoDOT reminds the public to take shelter during a tornado. Do not seek refuge in a vehicle, outside, or under an overpass. A highway overpass does not provide safety from a tornado. Do not seek shelter under an overpass or a tree. This puts you at greater risk of being killed or seriously injured by flying debris from the powerful tornadic winds. If in a vehicle, drive to a designated shelter, basement, or safe room. The next best option is a small, windowless room or hallway on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. It is not safe to be in a higher level room, rooms with windows, doors or exterior walls. It’s better to be in an interior room in the lowest level without windows, including bathrooms or a mattress for added protection. The best option is to be in an interior room in the basement, without windows. Visit stormaware.mo.gov for more information.

An accident occurred in Dent County Sunday afternoon at approximately 3:05 on Highway VV three miles east of Highway 119. According to the Highway Patrol report an eastbound 2010 Harley Davidson Super Glide, driven by a 64-year-old Hartville man, traveled off the right side of the roadway, striking a tree and ejecting the driver. The man suffered moderate injuries and was transported by Air Evac to Cox South in Springfield. The report stated that he was wearing safety equipment at the time of the accident. The Harley Davidson sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by a private party.

The Dent County Commission met for its regular meeting Monday at the courthouse. Under road reports, First District Commissioner Keith Green reported that crew members are hauling rock to County Road 5070 and stockpiling. Crew members will be grading county roads 6220, 5070, 6370, and, if there’s time and manpower, 6410. Cutting brush will be done on County Road 5690. Second District Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported crew members will be hauling rock to County Road 4380. Grading is to be done on county roads 4380, 2330, and 2320. Crew members will also be out maintaining culverts as time allows. Meanwhile, County Clerk Angie Curley reported that bills and payroll is to be approved. Curley will be attending a Missouri Association of Counties board meeting in Jefferson City on Thursday. Curley also reported that the Dent County Courthouse will be closed in observance of Truman Day on Friday, May 8th. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Thursday at 9:00 at the courthouse, and the meeting is open to the public.  

Montauk was formally established as a state park in 1926, 100 years ago. To celebrate Montauk’s 100th birthday, the park will be hosting several special events throughout the 2026 on-season. The celebration will begin with Old Mill Days this Friday and Saturday from 9:00 in the morning to 4:00 in the afternoon, both days. This annual event features guided and self-guided history tours, as well as games and other activities. Presenters will demonstrate historical skills such as blacksmithing, archery, Dutch oven cooking, weaving, rope making, wood carving, and more. There will also be an arts and craft fair showcasing the finest products that local artisans have to offer, including homemade pottery, jewelry and clothing. All activities will take place around the old Montauk Mill. Admission is free and open to the public, and there is no need to register. Stop by to learn a new skill, immerse yourself in local history, and support small businesses. For more information, call the park office at 573-548-2201 or visit the Montauk State Park Facebook page at facebook.com/montaukstateparkofficial.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds Missourians interested in hunting black bear and/or elk in the state this fall that they need to apply for a limited number of hunting permits for each in May. MDC will offer 2,000 permits to harvest up to a maximum of 60 black bears across three MDC black-bear management zones in the southern part of the state during the 2026 Missouri black-bear hunting season, Oct. 17-30. MDC increased the number of available permits from 600 to 2,000 and increased the harvest quota limit from 40 to 60 bears to expand hunting opportunities. Missouri has an estimated population of about 1,100 bears.  Get more information on black-bears and bear hunting in Missouri and apply during May at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/bear. MDC will again also offer five permits to hunt bull elk in Missouri this fall with at least one permit designated for qualifying landowners who own property in Carter, Reynolds, or Shannon counties and the remaining permits for qualifying residents. MDC has designated the 2026 elk archery portion to run Oct. 17-25, and the elk firearms portion to run Dec. 12-20. Missouri has an estimated 325 free-ranging elk under MDC’s elk restoration and management program. Get more information on elk and elk hunting at the website mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/elk.

Dent County Prosecuting Attorney Andrew M. Curley has reported that Felton Metcalf, charged on Oct. 26th, 2024, has plead guilty on April 22nd, 2026. Metcalf was charged with aggravated fleeing, trafficking drugs in the second degree and felony driving while revoked, based on a probable cause statement submitted by Sergeant Michael Loveday of the Salem Police Department. Metcalf was sentenced to 12 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections. According to the probable cause statement, Metcalf had fled a traffic stop with a Missouri State Trooper at Hwy. 32. In the ensuing chase, Metcalf’s vehicle reached estimated speeds in excess of 100 mph and ultimately collided with another vehicle, whose occupant was taken to a hospital for potential serious injuries. Following a search, a large amount of methamphetamine, approximately 74.5 grams, was located in Metcalf’s vehicle. Both vehicles were totaled in the crash. 

The Salem Police Department have charged four individuals following a robbery and assault this past Saturday. Officers responded to a local hospital on Saturday regarding a male subject who sustained physical injuries related to a reported robbery. Two officers initiated an investigation that led to a coordinated operation with the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. As part of this joint effort, law enforcement officers secured a residence in the 300 block of East Second Street in Salem to preserve potential evidence. Occupants of the residence were detained during the operation and a search warrant executed. Officers located evidence consistent with an assault and robbery, as well as quantities of illegal narcotics and related paraphernalia. Four individuals were subsequently taken into custody and transported to the Dent County Jail. Following interviews with witnesses, victims, and suspects, the following individuals have been charged: Cheri Sturdivant, Steven McCarter, Larry Breeding, and James Dixon. McCarter, Breeding, and Dixon were all charged with robbery in the second degree and assault in the third degree. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

MoDOT has released that a project to replace the driving surface of the Little Piney Creek Bridge on Hwy. 63 at Yancy Mills is set to begin on Tuesday, May 5th. Contractors will narrow Hwy. 63 to one lane at the bridge, with a 10-foot width restriction. In order to leave one lane of 

Hwy. 63 open during construction, temporary traffic signals will be in place to direct vehicles safely through the work zone. Motorists are urged to slow down and use extreme caution as they approach the work zone and the stopped traffic at the signals. Significant delays are expected and drivers may want to plan alternate routes during construction, which is expected to continue through early October 2026. Meanwhile, pedestrian facility upgrades continue in the city limits of Salem on Hwy. 19 and 32, with minimal traffic impacts expected during the project, which is expected to be completed by September 2026.

The Dent County Fire Protection District announced it has been awarded a $1,000 grant from the Meramec Regional Community Foundation (MRCF.) This grant will be utilized to support a limited-time free smoke alarm program, prioritizing households within the district which: have at least one household member age 65 or older; have a household member with a disability; or have children under the age of 18. In addition to providing smoke alarms, the district will assist with installation when needed. Residents who wish to apply for a free smoke alarm may call the fire station at 573-729-3250 or online at dentcountyfire.org.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse. In road reports, First District Commissioner Keith Green shared that crew members would be hauling rock where needed and are planning to grade county roads 6400, 5070, and 5075. Crew members will also be cutting brush on County Road 5690. Second District Commissioner Jimmy Wiliams reported that crew members are planning to haul rock and grade county roads 2380, 2340, and 2330. Cutting brush is planned for county roads 2550 and 2560. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported that bills are to be approved. Collector Shannon VanKirk reminded those that are 62 and over and own their own home to pick up an application for SB190 from the collector’s office. Applications are available until June 30th. Office hours for the collector are Monday through Friday from 8:00 in the morning to 4:30 in the afternoon. Contact her office at 573-729-3911 if you have any questions. VanKirk further reported that the SB190 software through FOXPRO has been purchased at $5,000. Meanwhile, the commissioners were invited to the latest exhibit at the ONCRC. There will be a historical exhibit featuring Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) artifacts now through the end of May at the ONCRC, open Monday through Friday from 9:00 in the morning to 5:00 in the evening. Visit the ONCRC to learn more. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Monday at 9:00 at the courthouse, and the meeting is open to the public.

The Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors held its regular meeting Tuesday evening at 7:00 in the Doctor’s Library at the hospital. Prior to approving the agenda, Board Member Mike Swyers made a motion to add an agenda item to swear in Karen Brown for another term on the Board of Directors. The motion was approved. Following approval of the updated agenda and the previous open session meeting minutes, the board heard a presentation from Elizabeth Lawrence, a representative of the Helping Hands Auxiliary. After extensive discussion, three motions were made and approved: to acknowledge and approve the reorganization of the auxiliary; to accept the bylaws, which will be amended to remove the 501(c)(3) designation; and to grant the CEO/acting CEO, as well as one additional administrative staff member, signatory authorization on the auxiliary’s bank account. Karen Brown was then sworn in for another term as a board member. During her report, CEO Brook Bollman highlighted ongoing conversations with Missouri’s independent hospital network: the Show-Me High Value Network; recruitment updates; the completion of the HRSA 340B Audit; and the application for a $5 million DOT grant that, if awarded, would be utilized for emergency services over the course of two years. Bollman noted that Hospital Week will take place May 10–16, and that the hospital’s spring cleanup has been postponed. Inpatient admissions for the month of March totaled 62, with 108 swing bed days. There were 1,026 outpatient registrations, 1,580 cardiopulmonary procedures, and 14 residents in Long-Term Care (LTC). The Emergency Department saw 675 visits in March, along with 175 ambulance runs. Total operating revenue for March was approximately $1.8 million, down slightly from the previous month. Total operating expenses were approximately $2.6 million. This resulted in an overall operating loss of approximately $683,000 and a year-to-date loss of approximately $586,000. Bollman noted that staff are working diligently to close the fiscal year on a positive note. The hospital currently has 24 days of cash on hand. 340B revenue was $55,929, while expenses increased to $99,687, for a net loss of $43,758. Following approval of the financial report, Amber Hogan delivered the Chief Nursing Officer Report. Hogan highlighted updates to LTC’s electronic Medication Administration Record implementation, a luncheon with Texas County Technical College’s RN Program, the update and renewal of the hospital’s Nursing Assistant Site Training Program, ongoing continuing education efforts, and the upcoming Nurses’ Week, May 6–12. The hospital currently has nursing vacancies in several departments. Four new full-time employees were hired in March, while two employees departed. Open positions currently being recruited for include a CEO, paramedic, clinical receptionist, and Infection Control/Employee Health and Education Director. With no Unfinished or New Business items, the meeting adjourned to executive session for legal and personnel matters. The next regular meeting of the Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors is scheduled for Monday, May 18, at 7:00 in the Doctor’s Library at the hospital and is open to the public.

The Dent County Chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace will be holding its monthly Community Meeting Monday, May 4th, 5:30 – 6:30 in the evening at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory in the Walden Room.  SHP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that builds, assembles and delivers new, free beds to children in need in our community, ages 3-17, who do not have a bed.

CORRECTION: The “Let Freedom Ring” event with presenter Suzanne Rayfield Chilton McKenzie to be held at James Family Center, across from the James & Gahr Mortuary, located at 103 W. Center Street will be held Sunday afternoon at 2:00. YWT incorrectly reported the event would be Saturday in its previous edition.

The City of Salem Parks and Recreation Board held its meeting Wednesday night. After the call to order and roll call, the board heard a report from Parks and Recreation Director Melissa DuBois. DuBois shared that soccer is finishing up with 250 athletes, while summer ball just wrapped up registrations with 370 athletes, an increase from last year’s registrations. FEMA projects are finishing up: crew members are working on the riprap for the creek, while fencing at Billy’s Playground is being built. Both projects are estimated to be complete at the beginning of July. The Alice Lou Craig Swimming Pool is being de-winterized on May 5th, to be completed by Landmark Aquatics, and the pool opening is scheduled for May 23rd, weather permitting. DuBois also announced that the Salem MO Spectacular has had its date set for Oct. 24th this year, with Chamber Director Catherine Wynn to assist. The board then approved meeting minutes from March 11th and March 16th. The board discussed the FY 2027 draft budget for the Parks and Recreation department. Proposed within the capital improvement plan for 2027 were repaving for the pool parking lot at $83,400; a cooling station for the pool entrance at $20,000; a pool mural at $17,900; security cameras at $15,000; and a portable storage unit for the purposes of keeping ball equipment at $3,600. Another item for consideration is pool zipline improvements, with an estimate of $2,200. Within the draft budget is a $60,206 deficit, of which the board will need to review and either cut expenses or utilize prior year fund balances. Board member Luke Heithold requested more time to review the budget packet. No vote was made. Moving forward, DuBois shared that the Fireworks Committee is requesting use of the park for the Fourth of July, for the purposes of vendor usage and a fireworks display. The committee is also wanting to do a 35-year time capsule to help celebrate the 250th anniversary of America. The board approved the committee’s usage of the park and the time capsule and then adjourned. Another meeting is to be held by the board for a vote on the budget and will be announced at a later date.  

Beginning next Monday, May 4th, the City of Salem street department will be providing free curbside yard waste pickup in conjunction with the semi-annual spring residential cleanup. Crews will begin picking up yard waste on May 4th and will continue until it has covered the entire city. Yard waste to be picked up includes leaves bagged in clear, recyclable leaf bags, along with limbs and branches bundled with a maximum diameter of 4 inches, weighing a maximum of 75 pounds. Leaf bags may be picked up at the Utility Office for $2.50. Place all yard waste at the curb or back of sidewalk, not in the street, and do not block sidewalks. What will not be picked up during yard waste pickup are appliances, electronics, furniture, or household trash; lumber, building materials, recyclables, or tires; or entire trees or large limbs. 

The Dent County Health Center will be hosting its annual Spring Health Fair on May 1st from 7:00 in the morning to 1:00 in the afternoon, located at 1010 East Scenic Rivers Boulevard. Available at the health fair will be free basic screenings for blood pressure, height/weight, and BMI calculation. Also available is a Rapid Heart Healthy Screening at $34.50, which includes the basic screening plus Lipid (Cholesterol) and A1C. Available as add-ons to Heart Healthy Screening include a Blood Chemistry at $3.80; Vitamin D at $13.75; Basic Thyroid at $3.00; and Blood Counts at $3.00. Other services include a Rapid Blood Lead Screening at $10.00; free Narcan; and free and low cost STD testing. No appointment is necessary. Call 573-729-3106 for more information and scheduling for additional services.

This Saturday, May 2nd, from 6:30 in the morning to 8:15 in the evening, Montauk State Park will be holding a Kids’ Free Fishing Day. Kids age 15 and under are eligible to participate in the event. There will be a mobile aquarium, door prizes, archery range, and free hotdogs and soda from 11:00 in the morning to 1:00 in the afternoon. The spring branch from the CCC Spillway to the Social Hole will be reserved for youth anglers. The registration booth will be open from 2:00 in the afternoon to 5:00 on May 1st and all day on May 2nd. Children are encouraged to bring their own fishing equipment. For more information about the event, contact the Montauk Hatchery at 573-548-2585.

City of Salem Parks and Recreation Board President Carlos Lopez has called for a meeting of the board today at 5:00 at the Old City Hall Auditorium. After the call to order and roll call will be the Directors Report, followed by approval of minutes. The board will then review and approve the budget. The board will consider approval of the Fourth of July Committee use of the park and a time capsule request, followed by adjournment.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen met for its regular meeting Tuesday evening. During the public hearing for property annexation, no comments were made, so the regular meeting of the board commenced. After the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call and approval of the agenda and consent agenda, the board approved an electric department budget adjustment. Public Works Director Steve Paine shared that this adjustment was due to the progress of the new electric superintendent. The request was to move $80,000 from line replacements to other line items, including equipment maintenance, tools, special services, safety gear, and wearing apparel. Burbridge clarified this is not an increase in the budget but a transfer within the budget. A first reading was heard for three bills: an ordinance annexing property owned by Christopher and Joslyn Heavin; an ordinance annexing property owned by Terry and Shirley Perkins; and amendments to the city code to allow subcommittees to be established within the Community Involvement Committee. A first and second reading was heard for a task order authorizing Toth & Associates, Inc. for engineering services related to the Philmart/Marathon stormwater culvert replacement project. Portions of the concrete pads in the Phil-mart drive through show signs of sinking, and the culvert under the drive pads is collapsing. This is not a budgeted project but necessary due to the sinking concrete pads. Estimates for the engineering on the project is approximately $70,000. Discussion was held by the board for which funding sources to pursue for construction, which has a yet to be determined cost. The board approved the task order. Meanwhile, another task order was approved for Toth & Associates, Inc. engineering services, related to the city park no-rise certificate and permit project. The permit and no-rise certificate will be filed with the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA.) City reports were then provided. Economic Development Director Carrie Sutterfield shared an economic snapshot of Salem and Dent County, based off of census data. The full slideshow is viewable within the meeting packet. Both Paine and Mayor Greg Parker reminded the community that spring clean-up is coming up, on your regular trash day between May 4th through the 15th. Finally, the board adjourned. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Aldermen will be May 12th and will be open to the public. 

Join America250 in celebrating our heritage at “Let Freedom Ring” in Salem with SuzanneRayfield Chilton McKenzie as the presenter this Saturday at 2:00 at the James Family Center at 103 West Center Street, across the street from the James and Gahr Mortuary. The event is sponsored by the Dent County Historical Society. For more information, call Deloris Gray Wood, President of the Dent County Historical Society, at 573-729-2545 or email Suzanne at Suzanne.McKenzie.Author@gmail.com.

Salem Public Library has a special Saturday storytime and meet-the-author opportunity coming up! This Saturday morning, Rachel Johnson will read her children’s book “Mrs. Johnson and the Chocolate Conundrum” at 10:30. For more information, please call the library at (573) 729-4331. 

Join the Salem Future Farmers of America Chapter at Pizza Hut from 4:00 to 8:00 in the evening Thursday next week and enjoy a meal while helping students succeed. FFA members will be on-site serving guests food and taking orders, with a portion of the evening’s proceeds to go directly toward supporting FFA activities and agricultural education opportunities. Come out to support a great cause.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will be having its regular meeting tonight at 6:00 within the City Hall Auditorium located at 202 North Washington Street. Before the regular meeting will be a public hearing for Christopher and Joslyn Heavin, owners of property being considered for annexation into the city. After the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call and approval of the agenda and consent agenda, the board will hear any scheduled public comments. Under new and miscellaneous business, the board will consider the approval of an electric department budget adjustment, in order to improve its capacity for routine maintenance and ensure adequate inventory and tools for line repairs. There will be a first reading of three ordinances: an ordinance annexing property owned by Christopher and Joslyn Heavin; an ordinance annexing property owned by Terry and Shirley Perkins; and amendments to the city code to allow subcommittees to be established within the Community Involvement Committee. A first and second reading will be heard for two ordinances, including one authorizing Toth and Associates, Inc. for engineering services related to the Philmart/Marathon stormwater culvert replacement project, and another authorizing Toth and Associates, Inc. for engineering services related to the city park no-rise certificate and permit project. Any reports by city officials will then be presented before the board adjourns. The open session meeting of the City of Salem Board of Alderman is open to the public.

The Dent County Commission held its meeting Monday morning at the courthouse. In road reports, First District Commissioner Keith Green shared that crew members are planning to grade county roads 2400, 2430, and 6220. Graders will be present on those roads but may be limited in what can be done due to weather impacts. Crew members are preparing County Road 4110 for overlay later this year, with expectations of project completion in June. Second District Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported that crew members will be grading on county roads 3180 and 4300, with hauling rock to be done on County Road 3180, along with culvert installation. Cutting brush is planned for county roads 2500 and 2550. Preparations are underway for overlay on County Road 6150 later this year. The two 2026 Mach Trucks arrived Thursday afternoon, with crew members preparing the vehicles for use this week. Curley reported that bills are to be approved, and that her attendance at the annual meeting with the US Election Assistance Commission’s Standards Board went well. Meanwhile, Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams reported that CART tax is up from last April $6,291.69. This is up year-to-date $22,236.75 and up 6.9%. The commission signed the Water Tower Use Agreement on the Public Water Supply District #1. The commission will be putting a repeat on the tower in order for the road department radios to receive better service. An emergency closed session was then held with all approving 3-0. Sheriff Bob Wells presented a quote on fixing the parking lot of the sheriff’s department for $11,980 from Levi Reeves Construction. The commission will patch the parking lot for now. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Thursday at 9:00 at the courthouse, and the meeting is open to the public.

Join MoDOT on Wednesday any time from 5:00 to 7:00 in the evening at Rolla’s City Hall located at 901 North Elm Street for a public meeting to learn about planned improvements along I-44 in Phelps County, specifically to both westbound lanes from US Route 63 to Sugar Tree Road and eastbound lanes within Rolla, along with Route V and Route 68/6 interchanges to enhance safety and capacity. More details on the project, including the timeline, will be shared at the meeting. Project staff, info, and displays will be available for any questions or comments from the public. There will be no formal presentation. 

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation (MCHF) invite both new and experienced birders to join the 2026 Missouri Birding Challenge (MBC) May 1st through 22nd. Registration is open until this Thursday. The Missouri Birding Challenge participants will compete alone or on teams in five categories based on age, birding location, or experience. Birders will use eBird (eBird.org) to record their list of birds identified at public natural areas around the state, or even in their own backyards. There is a fee of $15 per person, or $10 per team in the youth Fledgling category. Fees are collected by MBC partner MCHF and contribute to migratory bird conservation efforts and projects. Registration fees were reduced from last year based on participant feedback. A new Big Day category will challenge registrants to record as many bird species as possible in the 24 hours of World Migratory Bird Day on May 9th. Once participants complete a category and submit their team’s mandatory eBird report, they will be entered into a drawing for prizes such as binoculars and gift cards. Learn more about the 2026 MBC and register by Thursday at mdc.mo.gov.

Salem’s Community-Wide Yard Sale is set to begin this Saturday. If you need space to hold your yard sale, spaces are available for rent in the parking lot behind the City Administrative Offices at 400 North Iron Street. Spaces are $8 for two parking spaces. You reserve spaces by coming into the office at 400 North Iron Street or by calling 573-729-4117. After the Community-Wide Yard Sale is the semi-annual Residential Cleanup for Salem residents. This will be the weeks of May 4th through May 8th, and May 11th through the 15th, on your regularly scheduled trash day. Have all items for pickup sitting curbside the night before your trash day. EPA law will not allow collection of the following material: yard waste, batteries, tires, motor oil, chemicals or solvents, paint, appliances, or non-compactable items such as concrete, tree stumps, steel, construction debris, etc. All mattresses must be wrapped in plastic and loose items must be bagged to be picked up. For questions on the residential cleanup, call 1-800-926-3953 or 417-741-7714.

MoDOT has released a list of general highway maintenance and construction work planned in the mid–Missouri area going on now through Sunday. Keep in mind that weather conditions may postpone scheduled work. In Dent County, pedestrian facility upgrades on Highway 19 continue in the city limits of Salem. Minimal traffic impacts are expected during the project, expected to be completed by September 2026. The bridge over Dry Creek remains closed with a project to replace the bridge scheduled to be completed this year. In Phelps County, pothole patching is planned on I-44 between Route V and Hwy. 72 in both directions, now through Thursday. One lane will be closed nightly from 6:30 in the evening until 6:00 in the morning. Meanwhile, pedestrian facility upgrades continue in Rolla on Highway 72, with project completion expected this June. Work will require intermittent single-lane closures. Route J is closed for bridge rehabilitation over I-44. The on- and off- ramps at the overpass at Exit 169 will remain open and a signed detour will be in place. Project completion is expected this June. The bridge rehabilitation project over I-44 continues at the Business Loop 44/Hwy. 72/Kingshighway exit. The bridge is closed to all westbound traffic. A signed detour is in place, and project completion is expected this July. 

At the Dent County Health Center Inaugural Gala and Awards Banquet held Friday night at the Salem Community Center @ The Armory, Health Center Administrator Zach Moser served as the emcee and presented numerous health related awards to community members and organizations, voted on by the public online. The awards handed out at the well attended event were: the Fay Schafer Achievement Award that went to Joan Fleener; the Physician of the Year Award presented to Brady Floyd; the Nurse of the Year Award went to Brittany Shepherd; the Nurse Practitioner Award was given to Sandra Headrick; the Pharmacist Award was presented to Hershel Moser; the Allied Health Professional Award was given to Teresa Wisdom; the Emergency Excellence Award was won by Logan Pogue; the Preventative Care Award went to the SMDH Mammography; the Rural Health Impact Award was presented to Phelps Health; the Emerging Clinical Leader Award was given to Brady Floyd; the Clinical Team of the Year was won by Sandra Headrick and her Phelps Health team; the Health System of the Year was awarded to Phelps Health; the Community Health Partner of the Year was given to Aging Best; the Friend of Public Health was presented to Kala Sisco; the Social Services Impact Award was taken by Sara Arnett; the Community Charity and Outreach Award was won by Love Thy Neighbor; the Community Health Initiative Excellence Award was presented to the SMDH ToRCH Program; and the Humanitarian Excellence Award was given to Thom Haines. Congratulations to all!