Local News

An 18-year-old Salem resident was involved in an accident late Sunday night at approximately 11:14 in Phelps County on County Road 3060 a quarter of a mile east of Rolla. According to the Highway Patrol a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado that was driven by the Salem man traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a mailbox, and a tree. A 21-year-old Rolla male passenger suffered serious injuries and was transported by Mercy Lifeline to University Hospital in Columbia. A 20-year-old Rolla female passenger also suffered serious injuries and was transported by St. James Ambulance to Phelps Health Hospital. A 17-year-old female passenger from Newburg suffered serious injuries and was transported by Phelps Health Ambulance to Phelps Health. An 18-year-old Rolla male passenger suffered minor injuries and was transported by St. James Ambulance to Phelps Health. The driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to Phelps Health by Law Enforcement. The report stated that none of the five occupants of the vehicle were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident. The Silverado was totaled and removed from the scene by D and D Towing.

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has released that it is seeking community input for a 2027 Hwy. 19 bridge rehabilitation project in Dent County, just south of Salem over Spring Creek. The bridge is due for a deck overlay in 2027. Built in 1986, the bridge’s driving surface has deteriorated and is in need of repair. At this time, the project calls for one lane to remain open throughout construction. The comment period is open now through Aug. 31st. Share your thoughts with MoDOT through the MoDOT Central Missouri District email at CDCR@modot.mo.gov; mailing to address 1511 Missouri Boulevard, Jefferson City, MO 65109; or by visiting the MoDOT website at modot.org and searching “Missouri Route 19 Bridge Rehabilitation over Spring Creek in Dent County.” Click the page with that same title, and scroll to the bottom to find the feedback form.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds deer hunters, landowners, and others of changes to regulations of the Wildlife Code of Missouri for the upcoming deer-hunting season. The antlered buck limit has been reduced for nonresidents from two to one. Nonresidents who qualify for nonresident landowner permits will maintain an antlered buck harvest limit of two. The Early Youth Portion has been moved one week earlier this year to Oct. 24th and 25th to help avoid conflicts with Halloween activities at the end of October. The antler-point restriction (APR) for the 18 counties where it was most recently in place has been removed to help minimize the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD.) Further, the designations of the CWD Management Zone has been removed. A majority of Missouri counties either have had a case of CWD or are within 10 miles of a confirmed case of the disease, so a designated CWD Management Zone is no longer needed. MDC will also continue to prohibit the placement of feed and minerals for deer in counties within 10 miles of where CWD has been found. Placing feed and minerals for deer has been prohibited in counties close to where CWD has been detected since CWD was first found in Missouri as it artificially congregates them, resulting in an increased risk of disease transmission. The CWD Portion of firearms deer season has been removed. Meanwhile, mandatory CWD sampling during the opening weekend of the November Portion of the firearms deer season has been moved to a four-year county rotation. Mandatory sampling for this season will be conducted in 28 counties on Nov. 14th and 15th. MDC has increased the minimum acreage requirement for CWD Management Permits and simplified the application process. Landowners are now required to have at least 20 contiguous acres in a CWD Core Area to receive CWD Management Permits. Lastly, as a result of public engagement and continued evaluation, MDC will not conduct targeted deer removals after the season and currently has no plans to resume the activity.

This Thursday, Aug. 20th, will be filled with activities at Salem High School and Middle School. Open House will be going on from 4:00 until 6:00 providing students the chance to tour campus, meet teachers, and ask questions. Chromebook insurance, parking passes and t-shirts will be available for purchase. The supply lists for the school year are online at salemr80.org/page/supply-lists. The Student Council will be conducting a Dignity Day drive to collect new, unopened travel-size personal care and hygiene items to help support middle school and high school students. Every donation, large or small, can make a meaningful impact. Donation ideas include toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner, body wash, etc. Middle School students can take part in “Pick Your Locker Night” as they get their last-minute questions answered. High School students are invited to visit the High School Library from 4:30 to 5:00 to fill out an application for dual credit classes. A representative from Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-SP) will be on hand to help and answer questions. Students enrolled in dual credit classes are highly encouraged to attend. The MSU-WP rep will remain onsite afterwards for individual questions.

An accident happened at 5:57 Thursday evening in Crawford County at 136 Highway E that left two people with serious injuries and two others with injuries as well. According to the highway patrol report, a 2006 Honda Accord driven southbound by a 17-year-old female from Steelville, went off the right side of the roadway. The driver overcorrected and then re-entered the roadway when the vehicle crossed over the centerline. The Honda then traveled off the right side of the road again where it struck an embankment and overturned, ejecting all four occupants. Suffering serious injuries were the female driver and a 22-year-old male passenger from Sullivan. An 18-year-old male passenger from Steelville suffered moderate injuries while a 22-year-old male passenger from Sullivan suffered minor injuries. The driver was transported by EMS to the Mercy Hospital in St. Louis while the 22-year-old male who suffered serious injuries was taken by Air Evac to the Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. The other two male passengers were transported by EMS to the Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan. None of the occupants were wearing seat belts at the time of the accident. The Honda was totaled and removed from the scene by Miles and Sons Towing.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Office has released that on Aug. 10th, after an investigation into the compliance of a convicted sex offender with the Sex Offender Registry requirements, a deputy arrested 64-year-old Dent County man, Jimmy Lee Channel. On Aug. 11th, Judge Nathan Kelsaw issued a warrant charging Channel with Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Channel is being held in Dent County Jail pending the posting of a $25,000.00 bond. Listed charges are merely accusations and do not constitute evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has released the project to repair the driving surface of the Phelps County Hwy. BB (10th Street) over BNSF Railway, in Rolla, is scheduled to begin Monday, Aug. 17th. Built in 1974, the supporting structures of the bridge are in good condition, but the driving surface needs rehabilitation. The project will be completed half at a time with traffic shifted. One lane each direction will remain open, with no center turn lane through the work zone. While the bridge will remain open throughout construction, motorists should expect delays during peak traffic hours. For motorists’ safety while work is occurring overhead, intermittent closures of Oak Street and Olive Street beneath the bridge will be necessary when crews are working in the immediate area. Work is expected to continue through November 2026.

ServMO has announced the recipients of the America 250-Grants, which will support meaningful, community-driven service projects in honor of the 9/11 Day of Service and Missouri Good Neighbor Week from Sept. 28th through Oct. 4th. These mini-grants are funded in partnership with Missouri’s Show Me America 250 Commission. ServMO announced the $15,000 funding opportunity with the goal of supporting mini-grant projects ranging from $500 – $3,000. Recipients include the following organizations: Bismarck United Methodist Church, which will provide a free family style meal for the community; Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO), which will coordinate the Ozark Foothills Community Connection Day of Service; Community Partnership of SEMO (CPSEMO), which will implement a beautification landscaping project throughout the South Cape neighborhood of Cape Girardeau; Missouri State Public Defender (MSPD), which will participate in meal pack events hosted by the National 9/11 Day Organization; St. Joseph Youth Alliance Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC), which will design and host an “Answering the Call” project honoring firefighters; St. Lucas United Church of Christ, which will host a community meal; and West Central Missouri Community Action Agency, which will host “The Community Heroes in Action” event.

Flash flooding can happen fast, even if it’s not raining where you are. To keep your trips to Missouri’s State Parks safe and fun, be sure to check the weather forecast before you go and keep an eye on upstream conditions. Set up camp on higher ground. Avoid low-lying areas 

The Salem Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) concluded a joint operation Wednesday night as part of the ongoing investigation into the unsolved homicide of Rosalee Byrd. As a result of Wednesday’s investigative efforts, the Salem Police Department confirmed that positive progress had been made in this case. While the investigation remains active, detectives continue to pursue all available evidence and leads. Appreciation has been extended to the FBI, City of Salem staff, and the community for its assistance and support throughout the day’s search efforts. The SPD has confirmed that a suspect has been identified in the case.

The Dent County Commission met for its regular meeting Thursday morning at the courthouse. Under public comments, a private citizen shared grievances with the commissioners on the policy requiring disclosure of the recording of meetings, alongside the institution of Flock cameras within Dent County. When asked for their name for the minutes, the citizen requested legal documentation to justify disclosing their name; with no legal documentation presented, their name was not given. The citizen further alleged that a public record showing who is recording is illegal according to the State Attorney General’s office. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson interrupted the citizen and attempted to move the meeting forward. The citizen stated that because they were interrupted, they were prevented from speaking. Larson asked if the citizen had anything else to comment, and the citizen stated they had been dismissed. Moving on to road reports, District One Commissioner Keith Green shared that crew members would be hauling rock to County Road 6660 and moving on to County Road 6490 next week. Crew members are continuing to mix up rock for that project. District Two Commissioner Jimmy Williams shared that crew members would be continuing to rebuild County Road 3200. A truck has broken down and will require maintenance. A brush cutter will be working on County Road 4060. Fuel bids have been received, with MFA Oil bidding $4.039; Philmart bidding $4.10; and County Fuels bidding $4.25. Commissioners approved the fuel bid from MFA Oil at $4.039. Larson reported that he has several meetings to attend Thursday evening, including a meeting with the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC), Phelps County Public Housing Agency Housing Advisory Board (PHA), and Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC.) He notified that the 2027 grant round for the Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is now open, available for cities, counties, public-school districts to be used for outdoor recreation projects. For questions or more information, contact grants management staff at mspgrants@dnr.mo.gov. The deadline to apply is Nov. 13th. County Treasurer Denita Williams reported on sales tax received for the month of July, stating General Revenue has received $97,431.92; Road and Bridge has received $48,742.62; and the Jails have received $97,230.29. The Dent County Commission meeting for Monday has been canceled. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be Thursday at 9:00 in the morning at the Dent County Courthouse. These meetings are open to the public.

Community members are invited to go wild about saving lives by donating blood at the Salem Community Blood Drive on Tuesday, Sept. 1st from noon to 6:00 in the evening. The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO) and Dickerson Park Zoo are partnering throughout September and October to help boost the regional blood supply for local patients. Successful donors will receive a voucher for two free general admissions to the Dickerson Park Zoo, a $38 value, along with a limited-edition otter themed T-shirt while supplies last. CBCO donors provide every drop of blood for patients at Salem Memorial District Hospital, as well as dozens of hospitals across the Ozarks. Salem area residents will have the opportunity to donate within the Fellowship Hall of the First Baptist Church located at 201 North MacArthur Street. Photo identification is required. Donors should eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of fluids prior to donating. Eligible donors must be at least 16 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health and have not donated blood within the past 56 days. Appointments are strongly encouraged to help reduce wait times. To schedule an appointment, visit cbco.org/zoo or call 417-227-5006.

On Saturday, Sept. 12th from 7:00 in the morning to 7:00 in the evening, veterans are able to fish for free at Montauk State Park. Veterans can pick up their free fishing tag the day of the event at the Dorman Steelman Lodge in Montauk State Park. The spring branch will be reserved for veterans and their family members only. The veteran-founded nonprofit “Hooked on Vets” will be providing assistance and attendance prizes. Lunch will be provided. Tagged fish will be stocked with prizes available as well. Registration is not required.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol invites the public to take part in a public opinion survey regarding safety and security, officers’ attitudes and competency, overall agency performance, and concerns regarding crime and social issues. The 2026 Public Opinion Survey is now open and runs to the end of August. Members of the public may access the survey at surveymonkey.com/r/2026_Public_Opinion.

Missouri’s Good Neighbor Week is just around the corner from Sept. 28th through Oct. 4th. Signed into law in 2022, Missouri Good Neighbor Week encourages residents to participate in events and activities to establish connections with their neighbors. This will be the fifth year of the celebration. You can perform and report acts of neighbors any time of the year, then during Missouri Good Neighbor Week from Sept. 28th – Oct. 4th awards will be presented. As of June 7th, 2026, there have been 14,420 acts of neighborliness reported at the website missourigoodneighborweek.com. Submit your stories at that same site, and make nominations for several categories.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education met for a special meeting on Wednesday at noon. After approval of the agenda, the board approved the annual ECSE First Student Transportation contract, alongside a three-year contract with Wagner Photography. The board discussed and approved a bid for a Ford Expedition by Schicker Automotive of St. Louis, pending an inspection and test drive. Power School, a website the district utilizes for hiring and hosting job applications, was approved for renewal for the upcoming school year, as well. Superintendent Nathan Wills discussed with the board the bids received for the Upper Elementary parking lot. After further inspection, it was revealed the parking lot requires more than just the overlay that had been bid. The parking lot contains severe cracking, described Wills, and may need asphalt and concrete replacement. With that being said, the board rejected the bids received with the intention to put out another Request for Bids (RFB) later in the year. Wills described that work on the parking lot may need to be phased out over several years in order to lessen cost impacts. Finally, the board approved prepayment of the Series 2020 bonds in the amount of $180,291.67. Under personnel, the board approved the hiring of Sydney Dothage as an ECSE Aide and Jessey Kissir as a Middle School Paraprofessional, along with the resignation of Angel Hunter as a ECSE Paraprofessional. The board then voted to enter executive session for the discussion of personnel. The next regular meeting of the Salem R-80 Board of Education will be Thursday, Aug. 20th at 5:30 in the evening and will include the annual tax rate hearing. These meetings are open to the public.

The Dent County Fire Protection District (DCFPD) Board of Directors met for its regular meeting Tuesday evening. The board began the meeting with the Tax Rate Hearing. No changes were made with the tax rate remaining at .2382 and the bond rate at .2300. The consent agenda was then approved, containing minutes from the previous meeting, financial reports, bills, payments, and statements, and budget and reconciliations. Fire Chief Derek Thomas presented the monthly reimbursement report with a total of 19 calls for the month and 140 total calls for the year. The board then went into closed session to discuss legal actions and personnel. The next regular meeting of the DCFPD Board of Directors will be Tuesday, Sept. 8th at 6:00 in the evening and is open to the public.

The Phelps County Public Housing Agency is seeking landlords for the Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8. Landlords are needed in Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Phelps and Washington counties. The program assists low-income families, the elderly, and people with disabilities afford decent, safe and sanitary rental housing from private landlords. Some of the benefits of accepting Housing Choice Vouchers include a large pool of potential tenants, guaranteed rental income, free advertising of available units, lower vacancies and unit oversight by qualified housing inspectors. Currently, there are 173 families with Housing Choice Vouchers in the Meramec Region searching for approved housing and another 415 families on the waiting list. For more information or questions, contact Housing Manager Donald Keeney at 573-265-4200 ext. 128 or via email at dkeeney@meramecregion.org.

Missouri Crayfish Finders is the newest citizen science project being conducted in cooperation with Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC.) This project assists MDC by tracking populations of invasive crayfish throughout the state and updating the known distribution of Missouri’s diverse crayfish communities. Missouri is home to over 40 species of crayfish, including 26 Species of Conservation Concern.Those interested in participating are encouraged to take photos for scientists to accurately identify crayfish species. This project is open to anyone to participate across the state, so long as you have a valid Missouri fishing permit in order to catch and release crayfish. Interested in participating? Learn more by visiting the link to the Missouri Stream Team website at mostreamteam.org/missouri-crayfish-finders. 

Mentoring makes a difference where one hour per week can help change a child’s life. Mentors are already providing this service to students at the Salem R-80 Middle School, Salem R-80 Upper Elementary school, the North Wood R-4 School for 3rd through 6th graders, and this year the program has been expanded to cover Dent-Phelps R-3 school and Oak Hill R-1 as well, but more mentors are needed. Mentors can be a friend to these children, helping them with homework or just playing a game with them offering encouragement and support. Mentored youth are less likely to misuse alcohol and drugs, respond more positively to teachers and parents, and have greater feelings of self-worth with improved confidence and social skills. Healthy Dent County is the coordinator of this program. If you have one hour per week to become a mentor at any of the schools listed, contact Liberty Ross at 573-729-8163, text 573-247-4886 or email liberty@salemcommunitycenter.org.

It’s that time of year again. School is getting ready to get started! Be sure to be prepared by attending the Back to School Fair at the Salem Community Center @ The Armory this coming Friday, Aug. 14th from 3:00 to 7:00 in the afternoon. There will be free backpacks and school supplies, games and prizes, free food, free socks and underwear, giveaways, and community resources. Call Donna at South Central Missouri Community Action Agency (SCMCAA) to preregister at 573-729-3500.

It was released Tuesday night that the Salem Police Department, in coordination with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) St. Louis Field Office, will be conducting a joint search operation on Wednesday, Aug. 12th along the walking trail between Rolla Road and the Salem Care Center. The walking trail will be closed to public access from 8:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon. This operation is part of an ongoing investigative effort related to a 2015 homicide case. Community members are asked to avoid the area during the operation and provide investigators with the space necessary to conduct their work. The Salem Police Department appreciates the community’s understanding, cooperation, and continued support as it remains committed to seeking answers and pursuing justice for the community.

The City of Salem’s Utility Committee will be holding a meeting tonight at 6:15 in the evening at the Old City Hall Auditorium on 202. North Washington Street. This meeting is open to the public. After approval of the agenda and any scheduled public comments, the committee will consider the approval of the previous meeting minutes and then hear reports from the chairman. The board will then discuss utility meter testing, solid waste pickup and disposal bids, and the Nexgrid customer portal. Under reports, the committee will hear a financial and billing update, discuss notes from the Missouri Public Utility Alliance (MPUA) and Mid-Missouri Municipal Power Energy Pool (MMMPEP) meetings, and hear work reports from utility crew members. The committee will then adjourn.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen held a meeting Tuesday evening at the Old City Hall Auditorium. With no public comments, the board moved along to approving a street closure for the annual “Trunk-or-Treat” from Macarthur to 4th Street on Halloween, Oct. 31st. The appointment of Derrick Marfitt to the Utility Committee was then approved. The East Roosevelt Project was discussed, which is planned to replace aging waterlines, sewerlines, pavement, and potentially sidewalks from Hwy. 19 to Mildred Street. The preliminary opinion of Toth & Associates’ indicates a total project cost of approximately $2.5 million. The board approved several motions to submit an application to the Delta Regional Authority’s (DRA) Community Infrastructure Fund (CIF) grant for the East Roosevelt Project for $1 million, the maximum amount for the grant; if awarded, the grant will be utilized for the sewer line portion of the project. The remaining $1.5 million is planned to come from the Special Streets, Capital Improvements, and Water funds. If the city is not awarded a minimum of $500,000 in grant funding, the project will not proceed until other grant or outside funding is found. Under bids, the board approved an emergency purchase of an additional $3,150 to inspect and reinstall the Wastewater Treatment Plant’s RAS pump. The board approved two ordinances between the city and Archer-Elgin for engineering services related to the Wastewater Treatment Facility improvements, recommended by Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR.) One of these ordinances will allow for additional hard and electronic copies of plans and specifications to be made, while the other will allow for additional engineering scope for the disposal of existing biosolids at a cost of $128,834, funded through the MDNR Clean Water SRF Emerging Contaminants grant. In reports of city officials, Mayor Greg Parker recognized and thanked Water Superintendent Chris McGuirt, who has served the city for 30 years and will be retiring. McGuirt expressed his appreciation of the current City of Salem’s administration. City Administrator Sally Burbridge shared that the Roosevelt Project is one of several key areas where infrastructure improvements are planned in the future. Grants and outside funding is constantly being sought by staff to ensure the least amount of impact on rates for residents. Burbridge further shared a report on recent meetings with the Missouri Public Utility Alliance (MPUA) and its power pool, Mid-Missouri Municipal Power Energy Pool (MMMPEP.) Burbridge shared that MMMPEP has awarded a bid to Tesla for an 8 megawatt battery pack capable of deploying 2 megawatts for up to 4 hours, in order to shave peak demand during  peak alerts for the entire power pool. Site selection is underway by MPUA for that pilot project. Finance Director Stacey Houston shared a financial update, stating that July Fiscal Year 2026-27 sales tax revenues have seen a 30% increase over prior year at $429,961. For electric, revenues billed totalled $621,472; for water, revenues billed were $123,301; and for sewer, revenues billed were $138,618. The city has paid MPUA $544,867. Houston shared that overall expenditures, a total of $2.1 million, exceeded overall revenues, a total of $1.5 million, primarily due to significant grant-related expenses being paid before reimbursements were posted. The combined fund balance of all city funds is approximately $16.9 million. Parks and Recreation Director Melissa DuBois shared that flag football and cheerleading season is ongoing with registration open; work is ongoing for the Salem MO Spectacular planned for Oct. 24th; and a mural is being painted by Hannah Heithold behind the splash pad. The board then voted to enter closed session for the purposes of discussing real estate and attorney-client privileges. To watch this meeting recorded, visit youtube.com/@CityofSalemMissouri. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the City of Salem Board of Aldermen will be Tuesday, Aug. 25th at 6:00 in the evening.

The City of Salem Parks & Recreation reminds that registration is open for Flag Football and Cheerleading with a $10 late fee until Aug. 18th. This is for those within 1st to 6th Grade, with practice to start the week of Aug. 31st and games to start Sept. 26th. The cost is $35 for Flag Football and $45 for Cheerleading. For more information, contact salemparks@salemmo.com or visit the City of Salem Parks & Recreation Facebook page at facebook.com/SalemMoParks.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will be holding its regular meeting Tuesday evening at 6:00 at the Old City Hall Auditorium on 202 North Washington Street. After the approval of the agenda and consent agenda, any public comments will be heard. After, there will be two street closures to be considered, including one for the annual “Trunk-or-Treat” and another from Randy League for the Current Rivers’ Car Club. The board will also consider a board appointment to the Utility Committee. Under new and miscellaneous business, the board will consider submitting an application to the Delta Regional Authority’s (DRA) Community Infrastructure Fund (CIF) grant for the East Roosevelt Project. Meanwhile, under bids, the board will be asked to approve an emergency purchase of an additional $3,150 to inspect and reinstall the Wastewater Treatment Plant’s RAS pump. There will be two bills to be considered for approval by the board, both of which add addendums between the city and Archer-Elgin for engineering services related to the Wastewater Treatment Facility improvements. One of these addendums will allow for additional hard and electronic copies of plans and specifications to be made, while the other will allow for additional engineering scope for the disposal of existing biosolids at a cost of $128,834, funded through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) Clean Water SRF Emerging Contaminants grant. There will then be reports heard from city officials, if any. The board will then take a vote to hold a closed session for the purposes of discussing real estate and litigation. The board will then adjourn. This meeting is open to the public until closed. To watch this meeting streamed live or recorded, visit youtube.com/@CityofSalemMissouri.

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has released that Dent County Hwy. B, south of Salem, is now open at Dry Creek Bridge. Construction crew members completed the new bridge over Dry Creek and were able to reopen to all traffic Monday. Crews from Joe’s Bridge & Grading, Inc., working with MoDOT, closed Hwy. B over Dry Creek on March 6th after inspectors found a sinkhole developing near one of the supporting structures of the 86-year-old bridge.

The Dent County Commission met for its regular meeting Monday morning at the courthouse. Under road reports, First District Commissioner Keith Green shared that crew members will be hauling rock on county roads 6610 and 6660, and while grading is planned for county roads 5170, 5600, 5610, 6420, and 6540. Crew members are also planning on servicing a couple of the county vehicles. Second District Commissioner Jimmy Williams shared that crew members are planning on hauling rock to County Road 3200. Grading will also be done on County Road 3200, alongside County Road 6160. Cutting brush is planned for county roads 3330, 3333, and 3337. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson shared that he will be attending a Solid Waste Management District meeting over Zoom on Tuesday, in which board member discussion is planned alongside discussion of the annual dinner. Further, Larson reported that a tax rate hearing is scheduled for 10:00 in the morning, during the regular Dent County Commission meeting on Monday, Aug. 24th. County Clerk Angie Curley reported that she has balanced with the collector and assessor on all monthly collections, abatements, and add-ons for the month of July. Ben Johnson, a resident of Dent County, sought to issue a public comment regarding Flock cameras. At first, Larson attempted to stop Johnson, stating the commission had heard enough on the topic, but Johnson pressed the issue, asking Larson if he had the right to voice his opinion as a citizen of the county, to which Larson relented and allowed Johnson to continue. Johnson asked commissioners how a lawsuit would be paid if a resident is wrongfully accused through the usage of Flock technology within Dent County. The commissioners did not have an answer. Johnson further criticized the commissioners for stating they had no choice in the matter of instituting Flock technology, commenting they appoint the board members of the Dent County Opioid Fund Disbursement Board, the source of the funding for Flock cameras. On that topic, Johnson criticized how board members of the disbursement board are not publicly available. Lastly, Johnson criticized the commissioners for having a policy requiring disclosure of recording devices, stating the policy is in violation of the First Amendment. Johnson thanked the commissioners for hearing his comments. With no further business, commissioners stated that was all they had for the day unless something else walked in the door. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be 9:00 in the morning Thursday at the courthouse and is open to the public.

The University of Missouri will be holding a Fall Producers Program on Thursday, Sept. 10th from 5:30 to 7:30 in the evening at Swedeborg First Baptist Church located on 26894 Apple Street in Richland, Missouri. The program is free of charge and refreshments are to be provided. University of Missouri Field Specialists will be sharing their knowledge to help you plan for successful fall and winter cattle and pasture management. Registration is greatly appreciated. To register, call (573) 774-4766 or visit the MU Extension website at extension.missouri.edu and search “Pulaski County Fall Producers Program.”

The Dent County Chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) will be holding its next community meeting on Monday, Aug. 17th, from 5:30 to 6:30 in the evening in the Walden Room at the Armory. SHP is a 501(c)(3) international 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.  All volunteers are welcome, and the chapter is in need of additional volunteers to help with events, deliver beds, and more. Can’t make it to the meeting but interested in learning more? Please contact Patti McKeown at (703) 964-6495 or patti.mckeown@shpbeds.org.

An accident involving four Dent County residents occurred in Texas County Thursday afternoon at approximately 12:32 on Highway 32 three miles east of Licking. According to the Highway Patrol report, an eastbound 2021 Chevrolet Equinox, driven by a 21-year-old female from Lenox, was attempting a left-hand turn when it was struck by a westbound 1996 Dodge Neon, driven by a 47-year-old Salem male. The driver of the Dodge suffered serious injuries and was transported by ambulance to Texas County Memorial Hospital. The driver of the Chevrolet, along with an infant female and a 2-year-old male, passengers both from Lenox, suffered minor injuries and were transported by ambulance to TCMH. The report stated that all four occupants of the vehicles were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident. Both vehicles were totaled and towed from the scene by Jay’s Automotive at officer’s request. The Highway Patrol was assisted by the Licking Police and Fire Departments.

An accident occurred Saturday evening around 11:20 in Phelps County on Highway 68 about 4 miles south of St. James. According to the highway patrol report, a 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer driven by a 42-year-old male from St. Louis was traveling northbound and traveled off the right side of the roadway. Then the Chevrolet struck a rock bluff and overturned. The driver suffered moderate injuries and was transported by St. Lames ambulance to Phelps Health. The report states he was not wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene by Spurgeon’s Towing.

The Dent County Fire Protection District (DCFPD) Board of Directors will be holding its regular meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 11th beginning at 6:00 in the evening at 2 South Main Street. After the call to order and roll call, a tax hearing will be held. Following the tax hearing, the board will consider approval of the consent agenda, to include previous meeting minutes, financial reports, bills, and review of the budget. The board will then hear reports from Fire Chief Derek Thomas, including the monthly reimbursement report. The board will then set the date for the next meeting and then enter a closed session, if necessary. The board will then adjourn. This meeting is open to the public.

If you’ve noticed some new signage on Salem’s 4th Street, painted by Hannah Heithold of Hometown Murals, a new place to grab some breakfast fare will be opening its doors soon. Known as “Hey Honey Brunch,” the location will be having its soft opening this Tuesday from 9:00 in the morning to 3:00 in the afternoon. Come enjoy great food at “Hey Honey Brunch” located at 204 West 4th Street. For more information, contact 573-453-2882 or email heyhoneysalem@gmail.com. Follow the business on Facebook at facebook.com/HeyHoneyBrunch.

To mark this summer’s biggest meteor shower, the Perseids, Elephant Rocks State Park will be open to the public for a rare after-dark event on Friday, Aug. 14th from 8:00 to midnight. If you like stargazing or light shows and are able to brave the August bugs and heat, visit the park to create a lifelong memory. Elephant Rocks State Park is located at 7406 Highway 21, Belleview. This viewing event is free and open to the public; there is no need to register. Park staff will be available to direct you to the best and safest areas to view the shower. You do not need to use any viewing devices to see the shower, but you are welcome to bring your own devices if you want. Attendees are expected to be respectful of others and should avoid excessive noise and use of artificial light. No tents or other invasive camping equipment such as lanterns or propane heaters will be allowed, but you can bring portable chairs for seating and blankets to keep warm. Absolutely no campfires will be allowed. If there is bad weather, the event will be moved to Saturday, Aug. 15th, 8:00 to midnight.

Progressive Ozark Bank, in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines), has announced that six nonprofit organizations serving south-central Missouri have been awarded grants through the FHLB Des Moines Member Impact Fund. Through the program, FHLB Des Moines and Progressive Ozark Bank provided a $10,000 investment for each organization, resulting in a total of $60,000 invested across six communities. The recipient organizations include the Dent County Public Schools Foundation (DCPSF), which plans to utilize funds for literacy and math resources, supplies for science and technology programs, and expenses for performing arts programs and field trips. Other recipients include the Texas County Food Pantry in Licking, Bright Futures in Houston, Pregnancy Resource Center in Mountain Grove, Community Center in Mansfield, and Davis Field in Hartville. Each organization will use the funding to advance programs that improve the quality of life in the communities they serve.

The Salem R-80 School District reminds all parents and guardians that all new and returning students must register before the first day of school. Office staff are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 in the morning to 3:00 in the afternoon to assist with registration. Students cannot begin classes until they are fully registered. To ensure your student is ready for the first day of school, please complete registration beforehand.

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has released that crew members are working on the final pieces of the rehabilitation work on Phelps County Hwy. J over Interstate 44 (Exit 169). Deterioration of the bridge deck required rehabilitation to extend its useful life. Barring weather delays, contractors working with MoDOT expect to wrap up work next week and could reopen the bridge as early as Friday, Aug. 14th. Meanwhile, Hwy. 72 (Kingshighway) over I-44 in Rolla (Exit 184) remains under construction. Crews rehabilitating the bridge deck uncovered more extensive deterioration than expected, which added additional time to the first phase of work. They are completing that work now and preparing to move to the next phase. Westbound Kingshighway will remain closed during the second half of the project, while eastbound lanes are expected to remain open. 

There will be a special meeting of the Salem R-80 Board of Education on Wednesday, Aug. 12th at noon within the Administration Building off J Hwy. This meeting will be open to the public until a vote to move into executive session takes place. After the call to order and agenda approval, the board will discuss and vote on several items under new business, including: a ECSE First Student Transportation contract, a Wagner Photography contract, a bid of a Ford Expedition by Schicker Automotive, a renewal of Power School, a bid for the Upper Elementary parking lot, and authorization of prepayment of the Series 2020 bonds in the total amount of $180,291.67. Under personnel, the board will consider the hiring of Sydney Dothage as an ECSE Aide and Jessey Kissir as a Middle School Paraprofessional, along with the resignation of Angel Hunter as a ECSE Paraprofessional. The board will then adjourn and vote to move into executive session for the discussion of personnel. The open session portion of the meeting is open to the public.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors held its regular meeting on Tuesday last week. After approval of the agenda and previous meeting minutes, Will Mahurin was sworn-in to the board. Board elections were also held, with Mike Swyers elected as Chair, Zach Moser as Vice Chair, and Frank Barnitz as Secretary. Governing bylaws were reviewed and approved by the board, with no changes reported. Medical staff bylaws were reviewed with two changes reported: removing Home Health services, and adding that nurse practitioners would have privileges in the treatment room. Medical staff bylaws were approved with only one dissenting vote from Moser. Medical staff privileges were also approved for two physicians: Kiran Chunduri, MD for Tele Radiology and Akanchha Khadka, DO for Family Medicine. Changes in policies and procedures were approved for the pharmacy, laboratory, and RHC. After discussion, the board approved financing for two ambulances with a five-year lease from the Bank of Salem at a 6% interest rate. Moving forward, both the Chief Executive Officer Report and Chief Nursing Officer Report were presented by Amber Hogan, CNO. Brent Peirick, who will join the team beginning Aug. 24th as Chief Executive Officer, was in attendance virtually. Hogan reported that she has been attending plenty of meetings in transitioning the hospital to Equalize RCM, which will provide revenue cycle management services. Director of Quality Improvement & Risk Management Kendra Mobray and Hogan attended a meeting for the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) Horizon 2, which discussed Electronic Health Records (EHR) data and interoperability improvements. In addition, Hogan attended the RHTP leadership meeting for hub anchors, in which Phelps Health has put in an application to be the regional hub anchor and requested five permanent voting seats and five elected seats. Salem Memorial Hospital will be a permanent voting seat. These seats will be meeting weekly for the next two months. Show-Me High Value Network Committee meetings are ongoing with an anticipated price for participation in the first-year lowered to $15,000. Meanwhile, opportunities to expand point-of-care testing in the Rural Health Clinic is being looked into. Work is ongoing with transitioning to 1st Credentialing. Moving to the CNO report, Hogan shared that another contract employee is being sought, and that ER is increasing its staff with applicants received for an ER tech position. The Infection Prevention quarterly meeting was held. A Time Critical Diagnosis (TCD) designation is being worked on for the hospital. Hannah Harris presented the Statistical Summary of Operations and noted that in June, inpatient admissions was 78, with 186 inpatient census days. Outpatient registrations totaled 1,149, while radiology procedures numbered 1,232, and clinic visits totaled 916. The hospital recorded 656 emergency room visits, 28 transfers, 59 admissions, and 210 ambulance runs. Total operating revenue for June was approximately $2.7 million. Total operating expenses were also approximately $2.6 million, resulting in a net profit over expenses of $127,981.62. Net 340B revenue was reported at $29,021. A FY 2026 year-to-date loss was reported at $363,065.30. Harris further stated work is ongoing with Equalize RCM to collect in the coming year on Accounts Receivables (AR.) The hospital currently has 27 days of cash-on-hand. There were ten new hires and four departures in June. Meanwhile, Mobray reported on the 2026 Employee Satisfaction Survey, highlighting that the survey had responses from 70% of the 185 employees currently at the hospital. Quality Improvements highlighted by Mobray included the Emergency Department’s Left Without Being Seen (LWBS) rate which decreased by 1.3%, exceeding the department goal of a 0.5% reduction and reaching the national benchmark of approximately 1%. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors will be held on Aug. 25th at 6:45 in the Doctor’s Library and is open to the public. At that time, a tax hearing will precede regular business. 

The Dent County Chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) will be holding its next meeting on Monday, Aug. 17th, from 5:30 to 6:30 in the evening in the Walden Room at the Armory. Contact Patti McKeown at (703) 964-6495 or patti.mckeown@shpbeds.org for more information.

On Tuesday, Aug. 4th, members of Operation Relentless Pursuit, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and Salem Police Department Officers conducted a joint operation to locate and apprehend a violent offender wanted on a nationwide extradition warrant. Through investigative efforts, law enforcement developed information regarding the whereabouts of James Vassuer. Officers responded to a business located in the 500 block of North Carty Street, where Vassuer was located and taken into custody without incident. Vassuer was charged with two counts of Statutory Sodomy in the 1st Degree, two counts of Statutory Sodomy in the 2nd Degree; and one count of Child Molestation in the 3rd Degree. Vassuer was taken to the Dent County Jail where he is being held on a $250,000 cash/surety bond warrant for the five charges. This arrest demonstrates the effectiveness of collaboration between local and state law enforcement agencies in identifying and apprehending dangerous offenders. The Salem Police Department appreciates the assistance of its partner agencies and remains committed to working to enhance public safety and remove violent offenders from the community. All persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Primary Election was held Tuesday in Missouri to determine who will run for offices for their respective parties in the November General Election. A total of 3,829 ballots were cast for a voting turnout of 37.41% of a possible 10,234 registered voters within Dent County. Only the contested races are presented in this article. It is important to note results presented are unofficial. Running for US Representative of District 8 on the Republican ballot was Jason Smith, who received 94,468 votes district wide and 2,533 in Dent County and will be on the ballot for the November General Election. Gordon Heslop ran against Smith, receiving 15,367 votes district wide and 501 in Dent County. Running for District 8 on the Democrat ballot was Chris Reichard, who received 15,334 votes district wide and 58 in Dent County, and Frank A. Barnitz, who received 12,999 votes district wide and 476 in Dent County. Reichard will be on the ballot this November and will be running against Jason Smith (R) and Rebecca Sharpe Lombard (L). Running for State Senator of District 16 on the Republican ballot were four candidates, with Bill Hardwick and Hannah Kelly leading the crowd. District wide, Hardwick received 11,030 votes, while in Dent County he received 1,076 votes. Hannah Kelly received 7,865 votes district wide and 1,107 in Dent County. Hardwick will be on the ballot in November and will be running against Virginia Staabs (D). For local elections in Dent County, running for Presiding Commissioner on the Republican ballot were AJ Seay, who received 2,221 votes, and Denver Ellis, who received 798 votes, with Seay winning the race. For Recorder of Deeds, Jessica Dooley won with 1,808 votes. Melissa Piatt received 1,058 votes. Gladden Township Committeeman was determined on Tuesday, with Josh Akers receiving the nomination with 49 votes and Ken Nelson receiving 31. Gladden Township Committeewoman was also determined, with Alicia Watson receiving 49 votes and Cynthia Nelson receiving 32. Meanwhile, Missouri voters decided on four constitutional amendments on Tuesday. For Constitutional Amendment No. 1, a vote of YES received 1,141,865 votes statewide and 2,545 votes in Dent County, while a vote of NO received 245,778 votes statewide and 1,198 votes in Dent County. For Constitutional Amendment No. 2, a vote of YES received 1,042,413 votes statewide and 2,553 votes in Dent County, while a vote of NO received 312,713 votes statewide and 1,107 votes in Dent County. For Constitutional Amendment No. 4, a vote of YES received 275,040 votes statewide and 970 votes in Dent County, while a vote of NO received 1,122,748 votes statewide and 2,793 votes in Dent County. For Constitutional Amendment No. 5, a vote of YES received 233,309 votes statewide and 584 votes in Dent County, while a vote of NO received 1,165,085 votes statewide and 3,190 votes in Dent County. To find out more about results from this election, visit the Secretary of State website at enr.sos.mo.gov.

The American Red Cross declared on July 27th a national blood supply crisis amid critically low blood donations and shortages of type O blood. Despite thousands of people answering the call to give, blood donations are not keeping pace with hospital demand. Extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses are contributing to lower donor turnout this summer, further straining the nation’s blood supply. Those who may be eligible are urged to book an appointment now at RedCrossBlood.org or 1-800-RED CROSS. Those who donate from Aug. 1st through Aug. 31st will receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card by email. Additional details are available at RedCrossBlood.org. There will be an American Red Cross Blood Drive at Bunker R-III School District within the Old Gym of the high school on Aug. 31st from 1:30 to 5:30 in the afternoon. This will be the Bunker High School Student Council’s first blood drive of the upcoming school year. Come out and help donate blood and give a chance at life to those in need, and help seniors earn scholarships. To make an appointment, visit the American Red Cross website at redcrossblood.org/give and type in Bunker’s zip code of 63629.

The Primary Election was held Tuesday in Missouri to determine who will run for offices for their respective parties in the November General Election. A total of 3,829 ballots were cast for a voting turnout of 37.41% of a possible 10,234 registered voters within Dent County. Only the contested races are presented in this article. It is important to note results presented are unofficial. Amendment results will be reported at a later time when official. 

*indicates winners 

State Auditor (R)

Scott Fitzpatrick* 2,355 votes

Gerald (Jerry) Wistrand Jr. 369

U.S. Representative District 8 (R)

Jason T. Smith* 2,533 votes

Gordon Heslop 501 votes

State Senator District 16 (R)

Bill Hardwick 1,076 votes

Philip Lohmann 160

Don Mayhew 615

Hannah Kelly* 1,107 

Presiding Commissioner (R)

AJ Seay* 2,221 votes

Denver Ellis 798 votes

Recorder Of Deeds (R)

Jessica Dooley* 1,808 votes

Melissa Piatt 1,058 votes

Gladden Township Committeeman (R)

Ken Nelson 31 votes

Josh Akers* 49 votes

Gladden Township Committeewoman (R)

Cynthia Nelson 32 votes

Alicia Watson* 49 votes

State Auditor (D)

Quentin Wilson* 271 votes

Gregory Upchurch 173 votes

US Representative District 8 (D)

Chris Reichard 58 votes

Frank A. Barnitz* 476 votes

The following are the unofficial results only from Dent County regarding the proposed constitutional amendments. Official results from the statewide vote will be shared at a later time. 

Constitutional Amendment No. 1 

YES 2,545 votes

NO 1,198 votes

Constitutional Amendment No. 2

YES 2,553 votes

NO 1,107 votes

Constitutional Amendment No. 4

YES 970 votes

NO 2,793 votes

Constitutional Amendment No. 5

YES 584 votes

NO 3,190 votes

On Monday, August 3rd, two Salem Police Department patrolmen responded to a business in the 200 block of South Main Street following a report of a vehicle that had crashed into a gas pump. Upon arrival, officers located an unresponsive male driver and immediately rendered medical aid. The driver was subsequently transported for medical evaluation and later cleared by medical personnel. The driver, identified as Nathan Halte, was taken into custody. During the initial investigation, officers located numerous fentanyl capsules and syringes inside the vehicle. The investigation also revealed that Halte has multiple prior felony convictions in several states. Following the investigation, Halte was transported to the Dent County Jail pending the filing of formal charges. A probable cause statement was submitted to the Dent County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. Prosecuting Attorney Andrew Curley reviewed the case and filed a felony complaint in the Circuit Court of Dent County. The Honorable Judge Kelsaw subsequently issued a $50,000 cash/surety bond warrant for the following offense: Trafficking Drugs in the Second Degree. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional driving-related charges are expected to be sought. All persons are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is inviting the public to join the discussion on high-priority unfunded transportation needs at an upcoming meeting. MoDOT, working with its regional planning partners, has outlined a draft High-Priority Unfunded Needs listing, which identifies $1.3 billion in annual unfunded transportation needs for the system. The list was created to guide the development of needs into funded projects as state and federal transportation funds become available in future years. The public is invited to review the list and provide feedback on the order of priorities and additional needs that could be funded in the future. A meeting to discuss the draft High-Priority Unfunded Needs list in Central Missouri will be held Wednesday, Aug. 19th from 4:00 to 6:00 in the evening at MoDOT’s Central District office, located at 1511 Missouri Boulevard in Jefferson City. The presentation materials and a comment form are also available online, found on the MoDOT website at modot.org and by searching “High Priority Unfunded Needs Public Meeting.”

Salem High School will be hosting an Open House in the afternoon of Aug. 20th from 4:00 to 6:00. Incoming students of the 2026-27 school year will have the opportunity to tour the campus, meet teachers, and ask questions. Available for purchase will be Chromebook insurance, parking passes, and t-shirts. For questions, contact 573-729-6641. To see supply lists for the year, visit salemr80.org/page/supply-lists.