Local News

An accident happened in Phelps County Wednesday morning on Highway 72 about three miles south of Rolla. According to the highway patrol report, a 2015 Chevrolet Express driven eastbound by 56-year-old John Wulff of Rolla, attempted to make a U-turn and was struck by a 2008 Subaru Outback driven southbound by 66-year-old Rhonda Byars of Salem. Byars suffered moderate injuries and was taken by the Phelps Health Ambulance to Phelps Health. According to the report, Byars was not wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident while Wulff was wearing his. The Chevy Express sustained minor damage and was driven from the scene while the Subaru had moderate damage and was removed from the scene..

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse for their regular meeting. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray indicated brush would be cut on Dent County Roads 6070 and 6080, and a crew would be repairing chip and seal on county road 6240 with the ultimate paving material. Mobray said the tires were going to be changed on county truck #121. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk reported brush would be cut on Dent County Roads 2390, 2405, 6102 and 6123. He also said a crew would be patching chip and seal on county roads 3210, 3260, 3290, 4300 and 5225. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said the county will let out for bid for companies to provide propane for the county courthouse from December through May 31st. Bids will be due in the office by 10:00 Monday, December 4th. Larson said there will not be any commission meetings next week due to the commissioners and other county officials being at the MAC Conference at the Lake of the Ozarks Sunday through Tuesday, as well as the courthouse being closed on Thursday and Friday, November 23rd and 24th for Thanksgiving. Collector Shannon Vankirk came in with her monthly turnover including surtax and interest of $41,163.96. Administrator Zach Moser from the Dent County Health Center came to visit about the PDMP renewal user agreement. This agreement is between Dent County and St. Louis County. This is regarding the statewide Prescription Drug Monitoring Program. As part of this agreement, the County intends to transfer the County PDMP data to the State. The commission signed the agreement. The Alexander Construction Company is finishing up the exterior repairs to the courthouse. Their sub-contractors still need to do work on the guttering, finish painting, repair concrete and the Trim Light Company still needs to come in and finish their installation work. Alexander is still waiting on Quaker Windows to get back with a price on the back nine windows where the bottom grids are missing. The next meeting will be on Monday, November 27th at 9:00 at the courthouse.

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Salem will hold the Christmas Parade of Lights in Salem on Saturday, December 2nd starting at 5:30 with this year’s theme: “Winter Wonderland.” The Grand Marshall for the parade this year is the Salem High School’s “Marching Blue.” The parade will run from the corner of South Grand and Franklin at the SBU Campus, traveling east to MacArthur, then going north to 4th Street before going heading east to the Dent County Courthouse square. Entry forms are now available at the office of the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce at 1136 South Main. Forms need to be returned by November 30th to the chamber offices. You can mail them, fax them at 573-729-6741 or e-mail them at chamber@salemmo.com, or drop them off in person. A full list of the parade rules are available at the chamber office.

Lexie Mutch will hold a workshop for ages 12 and up on Monday and on Monday, November 27th for anyone interested in learning the technique of coptic bookbinding, making their own journals, books, or a gift for a friend. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon from 1:00 until 3:00 tearing down paper, cutting and gluing covers unique to you own taste, and sewing a strong and lovely binding. This coptic-bound book will lay flat, be a joy to work within and lovely to have. No previous knowledge is required to attend. This process involves utilizing sharp blades, a bit of muscle and can be hard on arthritic hands at certain points. Handmade books are a treasure to use yourself or to share with someone you cherish. Each participant will make their own blank book, with paper torn and folded, covers chosen, cut and glued, and bindings sewn together all by themselves. Learn this little-known art and share it with others! All supplies and provided at cost of $30. A minimum of 3 students are required to hold the class with a maximum of 10 attendees.

The signups for the Dent County Toy Drive and the Salvation Army Angel Tree will be from 3:30 until 5:30 at the Salem Community Center@The Armory at 1200 West Rolla Road on Monday, November 20th and Monday, November 27th. These are the only days to sign-up your children and some documentation will be required. These programs are limited to children from newborn to 12-years of age, and the parent or guardian they live with MUST sign them up. The parent needs to bring with them a birth certificate or shot record or current grade card to prove the child’s age; and the parents must live in Dent County. A current utility bill or a letter from the school the child attends will also work. Only one person per family may register and no children are allowed to be present during the signups. Parents will be asked the interests of each child, and they should know their children’s clothes and shoe sizes. The Dent County Toy Drive and the Salvation Army want all children to have a great Christmas, but they are also asking parents not to participate unless you truly need their help. If you have questions, message the Dent County Toy Drive on their Facebook page or call 729-8163.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors met Tuesday evening at 6:00 at the fire station. After the roll call and approval of the consent agenda, the minutes from the October meeting were approved as presented. The financial report showed an ending balance of $80,371.32 as of October 31st. Bills, payments, and statements were then reviewed along with the 2023 and 2024 budget. A motion was made and carried to adopt the 2023 budget for 2024 then, after the check for 2024 taxes is received, the budget can then be reviewed again and revised accordingly. During the calendar review, it was noted that this Friday the ladders will be tested for the district, and the hospital will be holding a class on Tuesday, November 28th for Pre-Hospital Life Support. There will also be a potluck dinner on Tuesday, December 5th at the department for all the firefighters; and on that same day, reimbursement checks for the year will be dispersed. The monthly reimbursement report for October showed a total of 34 calls for the month bringing the total calls year to date to 242. In old business it was reported that truck #85 is still being worked on and is not in service. Fire Chief Brad Nash gave his report and noted that the National Fire Incident Reporting System for Missouri is being changed and the department will need to look into new software to make the department compliant. Nash is looking into programs that will meet the department needs and keep them in compliance. The December meeting date was set for Tuesday, December 12th, at 6:00 at the fire station located at #2 South Main Street. The meeting was then adjourned.

Join Danielle Norris this Friday evening from 6:00 until 8:00, for a splendidly magical night at the Creative Arts Center for a Potter Paint and Sip. No muggles may enter! All Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and Slytherin houses are cordially invited where the wizard world will come to life on canvas. Participants will be lead step by step through a spell binding painting including Hedwig and sorter hat! No trickery, just pure magic, where anything’s possible if you have enough nerve. The magic is for all boys and girl ages 13 and up and all supplies are provided at a cost of $25 per attendee. A minimum of six are required to hold the session with a maximum of 26 attendees. People can sign up under the “Programs” at the salemcommunitybetterment.com website for activities at the Creative Arts Center.

The University of Missouri Extension and the Missouri Department of Agriculture are helping livestock producers find hay. Many of the listings come from sellers in states that have not seen back-to-back drought years. The websites list sellers by region and forage type, as well as bale type, number and weight. Details may include whether the hay has been analyzed, crude protein, acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber, relative feed value and percent total digestible nutrients. Hay listings on the MDA website will be posted for up to six months. Listings on MU Ag electronic bulletin board remain in the market listing system for 60 days unless updated. AgEBB lists the most recent postings first. MU Extension agronomy specialist Tim Schnakenberg says to use caution when buying hay from new sources as they will offer varying sizes, densities and, most importantly, quality affect hay’s true value. When buying, ask how hay was stored and for how long. Schnakenberg offers some other tips about buying hay such as testing and weigh the hay before buying, if possible. The best way to tell good hay from bad is to have it tested for quality in a laboratory. He also says to look for leafiness, weeds and seed heads and check for mold and smell. Schnakenberg also says to check for fire ants and other pests in hay from states where these pests are common. He also says to buy by the ton, not the bale, and to test for nitrates. If you need to find hay, the MDA listings are at apps.mda.mo.gov/HayDirectory; and the MU hay listings are at agebb.missouri.edu/haylst/vsale.php.

The Salem Board of Aldermen held their regular meeting Tuesday evening at the City Hall Council Chambers. In the hearing of persons, Debbie Murphy addressed the board about questions she had asked before concerning town hall meetings, open agendas, redistricting to allow for six aldermen instead of four, the DCAWS contract, the animal shelter at the industrial park and recycling as well as alderman only using a tablet or laptop while in session and not use their phone. She also asked the aldermen to reconsider the purchase of the vac truck as it was dangerous, plus a city the size of Salem didn’t need it and, in her opinion, is a waste of taxpayer money. When finished, Murphy expected responses from the mayor or aldermen, but she was told the board is only required to hear what she had to say. She was dissatisfied with that answer and after a direct discussion with Mayor Parker, the mayor asked Police Chief Joe Chase to remove her from the meeting which he did. The board approved Resolution #24-2023 that sets the Municipal Election for April 2nd, 2024 for mayor as well as one east and west ward alderman. The board approved Resolution #25-2023 allowing the mayor to execute a change order between Welch Construction, the city and Daniel Evans for property in the “Welcome Home” program at 503 West Rolla Road. The board approved the auctioning of former Salem Police cars, a 2018 Dodge Charger and 2017 Ford Explorer, on Purple Wave. Chief Chase said the police equipment had been removed from the cars and he expects them to bring a 40% return as they are in good shape. The board also approved the purchase of a 2023 Dodge Durango for the police department as part of the vehicle rotation plan at the state bid of $36,806.00 from Behlmann Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram in Troy, Missouri. Public Works Director Mark Nash spoke with the board about a new vac truck for the city from Key Equipment that would be used for water leaks, excavation, cleaning out man holes, pumping out lift stations, removing blockages from the waste water treatment plant and other instances that would save a tremendous amount of man hours. After department heads spoke on the truck, Nash said the Key Equipment would send personnel to train Salem workers for no additional charge. Nash also said the truck would have dual fans that would help expel any water from the truck when not in use. Nash said the city could get the vehicle within 30 days. The board approved the purchase of the truck for $195,487.50 with $47,500 coming from the Capital Improvement Fund, the sewer department, water department and the electric department with the remaining balance coming from the previous years balance. The board approved the purchase of a new Kyocera copier from SumnerOne for $9,087.87 that includes a five-year maintenance agreement. The board approved the purchase of a NOVA recloser for the city substation for $26,347.16 from Sho-Me Power after a squirrel Saturday got in the system shutting down the electric. Show-Me will make the repairs today. The board tabled their decision on the “conditional use” permit at 1509 South Louise Street until Alderwoman Kala Sisco, who was not at the meeting, could give her opinion at the next meeting. The board heard the first reading of Bill #3578 to officially name the streets in the Masters Industrial Park, and heard the second reading of Bill #3575 authorizing the mayor to sign the Administrative Procedures Guide for floodplain management and flood hazard reduction. The board approved that bill. City Administrator Sally Burbridge said the city administrative offices would be closed Thanksgiving and Friday, November 24th. She also asked the aldermen to think about what they want to do with the 2nd Street Bridge which is currently closed due damage from a truck. It is a MoDOT bridge and it could possibly qualify for funding to be replaced or repaired, or the city may only want to use it a pedestrian bridge. She is looking for direction in the next couple of months. Mayor Parker announced he will be running again for mayor in April, and Public Works Director Mark Nash said he would be retiring on January 31st, 2024. He said the street department is working with asphalt on patching potholes, a concrete pad has been poured for the electric transformer at the Construction Trades Building and McDonalds continues to push to ope quickly. Park and Recreation Director Melissa Dubois said there are 166 children signed up for basketball this year, the restrooms in the city park have now been winterized and she is taking registrations for the “Light Up the Park” this year for $50 for businesses, churches, groups, etc. The board then went into closed session.

The University of Missouri Extension congratulates Teel and Richelle Wisdom and family of Salem as the Dent County Missouri Farm Family by University of Missouri Extension in Dent County and the local Farm Bureau. They were among the families honored during the 66th annual Missouri Farm Family Day in August at the Missouri State Fair. Teel Wisdom was the 4th generation raised on his family’s cattle farm in Boss, where he and his dad also raised and showed world champion quarter horses. Now, Teel and Richelle’s 5-year-old son, Reed, also helps on the family farm which is now a 49-acre meat goat operation. Each year, the fair sets aside a day to recognize farm families from across the state that are active in their communities, involved in agriculture, and/or participate in local outreach and extension programs such as 4-H or FFA. Thee annual event is sponsored by five partner agencies: the Missouri Farm Bureau; the Missouri Department of Agriculture; the Missouri State Fair Commissioners; the MU College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources; and MU Extension.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse for their regular meeting. At the meeting, 1st District Commissioner Wes Mobray was not in attendance and Jason Aikens gave his report. He said brush would be cut on Dent County Road 6080 while a crossover pipe was going to be replaced on county road 5086, and an additional crossover pipe was being added to county road 5015. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk stated brush would be cut on Dent County Roads 2240 and 2270 while a man was going to Springfield to pick up oil for chip and seal repair. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson stated he attended the MRPC meeting last Thursday in St. James. In the External Relations Committee meeting, the committee discussed how the annual awards banquet went in Hermann in October. In the regular MRPC Board meeting, Larson said the entire board voted on the recommendation by the annual Dues Membership Committee to increase fees by 5% for next year as well as an additional 2% for the following year. This would include all MRPC members including Dent County and the City of Salem. He also wanted to report on the cedar tree that used to be on the lawn in front of the courthouse that was recently removed. Larson said the groundskeeper reported the tree was dying and it was removed before the tree would become a hazard. Larson said there would be a Tourism Tax Committee meeting on Monday, November 20th, but he will not be able to attend. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley stated she along with the assessor, treasurer and the three commissioners would all be attending the Missouri Association of Counties meeting at the Lake of the Ozarks Sunday, November 19th through Tuesday, November 21st. Because of the conference, there will be no meeting on Monday, November 20th. Curley said the courthouse will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday and Friday, November 23rd and 24th. At the last meeting, Engineer Corky Stack gave an update on the courthouse exterior repairs and said the Christmas light crew worked over the weekend installing lights and tracking, mostly on the south side of the building. Stack said he is still waiting to hear from Quaker Window on the six east side windows that were installed without a bottom grill that needs to be corrected. Sheriff Bob Wells also paid a visit to the commission. The next meeting of the commission will be Thursday morning at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

Preliminary data from the Missouri Department of Conservation shows deer hunters in Missouri harvested 90,334 deer during opening weekend of the November portion of firearms deer season November 11th and 12th. Of the 90,334 deer harvested, 53,159 were antlered bucks, 7,163 were button bucks, and 30,012 were does. Top harvest counties for opening weekend were Franklin with 2,114 deer harvested, Texas with 1,825, and Howell with 1,726. Top counties in our area were Crawford with 1,239 deer taken, Dent County with 1,157 deer harvested, and 1,002 checked in Phelps County. According to MDC, this year’s opening weekend harvest was similar to the previous five-year average. Last year, hunters checked 93,355 deer during opening weekend of the November portion of firearms deer season. For current, ongoing preliminary harvest totals by season, county, and type of deer, and summaries from past years you can visit the MDC website. The November portion of firearms deer season runs through November 21st followed by the CWD portion November 22nd through the 26th in open counties. Archery deer hunting then resumes November 22nd through January 15th, 2024. The late youth portion runs November 24th, 25th, and 26th. The late antlerless portion of firearms deer season runs December 2nd through December 10th in open counties and the alternative methods portion will occur December 23rd through January 2nd, 2024.

The Salem Board of Alderman will be meeting tonight at 6:00 at the City Hall Council Chambers. After they approve the consent agenda, the board will hear from Debbie Murphy about getting answers to previous questions she has submitted. The board will hear Resolution #24-2023 providing for the Municipal Election for the City of Salem on April 2nd, 2024 for a mayor, one east ward alderman and one west ward alderman; and Resolution #25-2023 authorizing the mayor to execute change order #1 between Welch Construction, the City of Salem, and Daniel Evans for property at 503 West Rolla Road. The board will hear about two police cars to be auctioned off on Purple Wave before Chief Joe Chase will request the purchase of a new police Dodge Durango in the amount of $39,092 from Behlmann Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram in Troy, Missouri. The board will hear bids for the purchase of a Hydro-Vac Truck that will be used for the electric, water, sewer departments and other capital improvements; then hear bids for a copier/scanner and multi-function machine for the administration buildings. The board will then hear the recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission for a conditional use permit at 1509 South Louise. The board will hear the first reading of Bill #3578 that would name the streets in the Masters Industrial Park, then hear the second reading of Bill #3575 that would create an ordinance to allow the mayor to sign the administrative procedures guide for floodplain management and flood hazard reduction for the City of Salem. After the reports from the city officials, the board will go into closed session to discuss personnel and contracts. The meeting tonight is open to the public.

An accident happened Friday afternoon at 5:44 in Dent County on Highway 32 and Dent County Road 4170. According to the highway patrol report, a 2006 Ford F-250 driven eastbound by a 17-year-old male from Boss, crossed over the center line and struck a 2013 Hyundai Sonata driven westbound by 20-year-old Samuel Halbert of Boss, head-on. Halbert suffered moderate injuries and was taken to the Salem Memorial Hospital by the Salem Hospital Ambulance. The male juvenile suffered minor injuries and he was also taken by the Salem Hospital Ambulance to the Salem Memorial Hospital. Both drivers were wearing seat restraints at the time of the accident. The Hyundai was totaled while the Ford sustained extensive damage. Both vehicles were removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing.

On a daily basis, emergency responders put their lives on the line along Missouri’s highways responding to crash scenes. These responders include police officers, fire fighters, EMS, tow truck operators and highway workers. They respond to traffic incidents, assist drivers, and help keep traffic flowing. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), traffic incidents are the leading cause of death for EMS responders and law enforcement officers. To remind motorists what’s on the line, the FHWA has declared this week starting today and lasting through the 17th as National Crash Responder Safety Week. MoDOT’s Safety and Emergency Management Director Chris Engelbrecht said that during Crash Responder Safety Week, they urge all drivers to remember the dedicated first responders are out there every day, working tirelessly to keep all roads safe. He noted that they risk their lives to protect us, so show respect, obey the state’s move over law, avoid distractions and slow down when approaching emergency vehicles on the road. Missouri’s Move Over law requires drivers to either change lanes or slow down when approaching stationary MoDOT, law enforcement or other emergency vehicles with flashing lights on. To help protect those who protect us, all 50 states enforce some form of the Move Over law. In 2022, more than 54,000 traffic crashes were reported on Missouri roadways that required emergency response. MoDOT emergency response personnel respond to more than 4,500 traffic incidents each month on average. Crash Responder Safety Week is an opportunity to remind drivers to adhere to Missouri’s Move Over law, educate drivers on crash prevention and promote life-saving training for all traffic incident responders. Engelbrecht said, let’s give responders the space they need to perform their work safely so that everyone can get home safely at the end of the day to our families.

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Membership Banquet is tomorrow night. The doors open at 6:00 with dinner being served at 6:30 featuring lasagna, green beans, salad, bread, dessert and a drink. Chris Stanley will entertain the crowd with comedy, magic and fun at 7:00. The event will be held at the Wilson Family Center and all chamber members are welcome to attend for FREE, but they need to know you ar coming. Contact the chamber office at 729-6900 or stop by the office at 1136 South Main Street in the Crossroads.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors will be meeting Tuesday evening at 6:00 at the fire station located at #2 South Main Street. After the roll call and approval of the consent agenda, the board will review the minutes from the October meeting before hearing the financial report. They will approve bills and review the budget before hearing the monthly reimbursement report. Following the calendar review, any old or new business will be heard before Fire Chief Brad Nash makes his report to the board. Before adjourning the date will then be set for the December meeting. The meeting next Tuesday evening will be open to the public.

A reminder that residents of Dent County who want to want to make a difference in their community through the University of Missouri Extension Council of volunteers that make Dent County a better place to live through Extension programs, need to have their completed applications submitted by this Thursday to the Dent County Extension Office at 112 East 5th Street in Salem. Representatives will be elected in a non-partisan election from January 8th through the 12th. Candidates must be at least 18-years-old and reside in the county they want to serve. Applications to be a candidate are still available by calling 573-729-3196, or by going online at extension.missouri.edu/dent. You can also request an application by sending an e-mail to dentco@missouri.edu. Completed applications are due by November 16th. The Dent County Extension Council is the local link between county residents and the University of Missouri campuses. Individuals interested in serving on the council may contact Ray Walden, County Development Specialist, at the Dent County Extension office at 729-3196 or find it on the web at www.extension.missouri.edu/dent.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday at the courthouse for their regular meeting. At the meeting, Paul Heithold, Jimmy Crocker and Myra Swyers from the Dent County Soil and Water Conservation District were in to talk with the commission about raising their allocation from $1,100 in the budget to $5,000 for 2024. The local Soil and Water Conservation District helps farmers with information and education, financial incentives, as well as technical support with the design, implementation and maintenance to voluntarily implement soil and water conservation practices that decrease soil erosion and protect water resources. They also help farmers identify plants and weeds, plus help with mapping and planning. Most people know the district rents equipment like No-Till Drills, boom less sprayers, post drivers, soil test kits and burn equipment. In Dent County, they are your point of access with USDA, FRA, the NRCS and Missouri Department of Conservation representatives and their programs. They help Dent Countians with cost share programs and in fiscal year 2023, their allocation ended up being $1,213,251 while their allocation for fiscal year 2024 is $1,395,225 to date with the fiscal year not ending until June 30th, 2024. They said the additional allotment would go to maintain and/or purchase No-Till Drills, sprayers and post drivers. The commissioners appreciated them coming by and will consider their request in the 2024 budget. Grant Wilson from Jason Smith’s office was in to report the new house speaker is Mike Johnson who was instrumental in getting Smith chairman of the Ways and Means Committee. He said Smith in an interview on Fox News said the Ways and Means Committee wants to investigate universities that condone the Pro-Palestine and Israel protests and their funding mechanisms. Wilson also wanted to wish those who will be out deer hunting during the firearm season the best of luck. He said if you are deer hunting in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways and have unwarranted issues with park rangers to please let Smith’s office know. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams was in to present the sales tax monies received this month. The General Revenue Fund and Law Enforcement Sales Tax Fund each received $84,018.42 which is about $200 more than for November of 2022. Year-to-date, the General Revenue Fund and the LEST funds are down about $66,720. The Road and Bridge Fund received $40,259.61 this month, up $1,726.97 from November of 2022. Year-to-date, that fund is down $29,597.00. The Jail Operating and Trust funds each received $81,961.53 and that is up $3,898.71 from November 2022 receipts. Year-to-date, those funds are down $54,409.00. Neither district had a road report as both crews were off due to Veteran’s Day. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said the auxiliary heater in the men’s room at the courthouse has now been installed to prevent pipes from freezing in the winter. Larson also said the commission signed the paperwork to move forward with the TAP grant from MoDOT for the new sidewalk construction. He said they are still concerned about the price tag of the MoDOT portion of the project of $393,283, and should the costs exceed that amount, the county would have to cover that amount as well as contribute $100,000. He said he would be talking with Great Rivers Engineering and MoDOT before allowing the engineering to move forward. The TAP grant will begin January 1st of 2024. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said she balanced with the assessor and collector on all collections, add-ons and abatements for the month of October. She also wanted to report that candidate filing for the tax entity boards will start December 5th and ends on December 26th. Curley said the law in Missouri states that the tax entity office MUST be open on December 26th for those wishing to file. Since Christmas is on Monday, most of these entities would also be taking Tuesday off, but municipalities, schooldistricts, fire districts and the hospital will have to have someone in the office on the 26th. Curley said work continues on the budget and the Dent County Courthouse will be closed today for Veteran’s Day. The next meeting of the commissioners will be Monday at 9:00 at the courthouse and it will be open to public.

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Salem will hold the Christmas Parade of Lights in Salem on Saturday, December 2nd starting at 5:30 with this year’s theme: “Winter Wonderland.” The Grand Marshall for the parade this year is the Salem High School’s “Marching Blue.” The parade will run from the corner of South Grand and Franklin at the SBU Campus, traveling east to MacArthur, then going north to 4th Street before going heading east to the Dent County Courthouse square. Entry forms are now available at the office of the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce at 1136 South Main. Forms need to be returned by November 30th to the chamber offices. You can mail them, fax them at 573-729-6741 or e-mail them at chamber@salemmo.com, or drop them off in person. A full list of the parade rules are available at the chamber office.

An accident happened in Dent County Tuesday afternoon around 3:32 on Route C about a mile south of Anutt. According to the highway patrol report, 32-year-old Kyle Keller of Rolla, was riding his 2023 Yamaha Motorcycle northbound when he struck a deer in the roadway and was ejected from the motorcycle. Keller suffered serious injuries and was flown by Mercy Lifeline to the University Hospital in Columbia. Keller was wearing safety equipment at the time of the accident. The motorcycle was totaled and removed from the scene by American Automotive and Towing. The highway patrol was assisted at the scene by the Dent County Sheriff’s Department.

An accident happened in Phelps County Tuesday afternoon around 3:55 on Phelps County Road 5480 about ten miles east of Rolla. According to the highway patrol report, 70-year-old Gary Hewlett of Rolla was riding a 2009 Yamaha Grizzly 550 ATV northbound when the vehicle went off the left side of the roadway where the ATV struck a fence and overturned. Hewlett suffered serious injuries and was flown by Phelps Air to the University Hospital in Columbia. Hewlett was not wearing safety equipment at the time of the accident. The ATV was driven from the scene.

Increases in maintenance costs over the past 15 years have led to the need for the USDA Forest Service to adjust fees at Mark Twain National Forest’s developed recreation sites. New and increased fees will take effect on January 1st, 2024. Over time, this will also help in making improvements at multiple recreation sites in line with the Forest’s recreation strategic plan. A vast majority of the Forest is free for visitors to access and enjoy, but fees are needed to maintain the sites that offer amenities—things like fire rings, trash service, potable water, electricity, paved parking and more. In 2004, Congress passed the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act which allows the Forest Service to retain 95% of revenue collected at recreation sites and use the funds locally to operate, maintain and improve the sites. Revenue is reinvested into Forest recreation sites in the form of trash pickups, septic and toilet pumping, painting, cleaning, addressing the backlog of deferred maintenance, conducting patrols, and maintaining highly used trails and campsites. Local areas that will be affected by the price changes include the Red Bluff Campground and day use, Council Bluff Campground and day use and Loggers Lake Campground and day use. For a list of the fees go to www.fs.usda.gov.

The City of Salem Finance Committee will be meeting this evening at 6:00 at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. After the budget review, the committee will discuss a reserve policy for the General Revenue Fund and also discuss an amended investment policy. The committee will then address questions or concerns before adjourning. The meeting tonight was called by Finance Committee Chairperson Kala Sisco.

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Salem will hold the Christmas Parade of Lights in Salem will be held on Saturday, December 2nd starting at 5:30 with this year’s theme: “Winter Wonderland.” The Grand Marshall for the parade this year is the Salem High School’s “Marching Blue.” The parade will run from the corner of South Grand and Franklin at the SBU Campus, east to MacArthur, then north to 4th Street before going east to the Dent County Courthouse square. Entry forms are now available at the office of the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce at 1136 South Main. Forms need to be returned by November 30th to the chamber offices, fax them at 573-729-6741 or e-mail them at chamber@salemmo.com. A full list of the parade rules are available at the chamber office.

Learn the art of creating Stained Glass with a Classical Quilt Pattern with Jennifer Curry at the Creative Arts Center in a 3-week workshop on Tuesdays starting November 14th and lasting through November 28th. There will be two workshops, one from 1:00 until 4:00 in the afternoon and the other from 4:30 in the afternoon till 7:30 in the evening. In this workshop, you will create a beautiful traditional quilt-block style stained fall piece. You will select your own colors and styles of glass, cut and foil each piece, and learn to solder the pieces together to create a 10” by 10” foil project for your home or to give as a gift. Stained glass artist Jennifer Curry will provide the professional materials and equipment. A minimum of 2 people and maximum of 5 people per session. The cost is a $150 for the three week course. Interested persons can sign up for the workshop under “Programs” at the salemcommunitybetterment.com website for activities at the Creative Arts Center.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed this Friday, November 10th, in observance of Veterans’ Day, and on Thursday, November 23rd, 2023, in observance of Thanksgiving. Also in honor of the actual Veteran’s Day, the post office will be closed Saturday, but UPS and Federal Express will be operating. Most businesses will have normal operating hours, but if you are unsure, call before you go.

The Salem R-80 School District will again salute veterans this year with a Veteran’s Day Assembly on Friday, November 10th. Breakfast for the veterans will be held in the high school cafeteria at 8:15 before they enter the gym around 8:45 and take their place in the special seating area for the assembly. Principal Jody Heavin will say the Pledge of Allegence before the Salem Chamber Singers sing the National Anthem. A former veteran will be the guest speaker and will give a short 10-15 minute speech before the band plays a patriotic number. Following their performance, a slide show prepared by the yearbook staff will be shown. The assembly us expected to last less than hour. All veterans can park in the bus lanes on the circle drive and enter in the front doors to the lobby, or they can enter through the main office doors which are handicapped accessible. All veterans are welcome and if you have any questions, contact the Salem High School at 729-6641.

This week’s is Winter Weather Preparedness Week in Missouri. Being prepared is the best way to protect yourself and your families during the winter months. All Missourians are encouraged to take this time to plan ahead and prioritize safety. Have an emergency kit in your vehicle, commit to avoiding travel during inclement weather, understand the risks of prolonged exposure to the cold, and review additional steps you can take to ensure a safe and healthy winter season both at home and on the road. SEMA and the National Weather Service Forecast Offices serving Missouri will be sharing winter weather safety messaging via social media throughout the week with a different theme each day. Often, too little attention is paid to the danger posed by prolonged exposure to the cold. According to the Department of Health and Senior Services, 52 people died in Missouri as a result of low body temperatures due to prolonged exposure to cold weather in 2022. Protect against frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loose-fitting clothing in several layers. Avoid alcohol, limit time spent outdoors in frigid temperatures and stay indoors if possible. Find more information on hypothermia and nearby warming center locations on the Department of Health and Human Services website health.mo.

Businesses or organizations can show off their holiday display as part of the “Light up the Park 2023” at the Salem City Park. The display will begin the night of December 2nd and last until December 31st. Registration for each display is $50 to cover timers and electricity. The lights and displays will go on nightly at dusk and remain on about six hours after dusk. Those who want to participate in the “Light up the Park” display must have their display set up by Friday, December 1st. Contact Melissa DuBois at 729-6290 or e-mail her at salemparks@salemmo.com to reserve your spot.

The 2023 “Honoring our Heroes” Marathon will be held Saturday, November 18th. There is still time to sign up for the full marathon, half marathon, marathon relay, the 10k and 5k runs. Veterans and active duty military families get a 50% discount off the normal registration price. You can register through Friday, November 17th, but the earlier you register the cheaper the fee. There are also “virtual” options available for all of the events. On Friday afternoon, November 17th from 4:30 until 7:00, those running the marathon, half marathon and marathon relay can pick up their packets at the Salem Community Center@The Armory and enjoy a free pasta party. There will also be numerous vendors at the free expo event that Friday evening in the Salem Community Center@The Armory Gymnasium which is open to anyone. For those who can’t make it to the Friday night packet pickup who are running the marathon, half marathon and marathon relay, those runners will need to get their packet early Saturday morning at the Rolla Lions Club starting at 5:00 for the marathon and marathon relay runners, and at 6:00 for the half marathoners. The marathon and marathon relay begins at 7:00 in the morning at the Dent County Commons while the half marathon will begin at Lake Spring at 8:00 in the morning. The route those runners will be going will mostly be on Highway 72 to Lions Club Drive and with the finish in the Lions Club Park. The 10k and 5k runs will be mostly at the Rolla Lions Club Park with the 10k diverting to the Veteran’s Park in Rolla before coming back to the Lions Club Park, and they will start at 8:00 in the morning. This year from 12:00 to 2:00 in the afternoon, you can take part in our “Honor Walk” in Lions Club Park. Get out, cheer on and support these runners who are helping to raise funds for veteran’s organizations. For more information on volunteering to help out or to sign up for the marathon, go to www.heroesmarathon.com. For questions about the packet pickup on November 17th, the pasta party or vendor expo event that Friday night at the Salem Community Center@The Armory, contact Jackie at 729-8163.

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their Annual Membership Banquet Tuesday night, November 14th with the doors opening at 6:00. Dinner will be served at 6:30 featuring lasagna, green beans, salad, bread, dessert and a drink. The entertainment will begin at 7:00 and will feature Chris Stanley with comedy, magic and fun. The event will be held hosted by the Wilson Mortuary at the Wilson Family Center and all chamber members are welcome to attend for FREE, but you must let them know you are coming. Contact the chamber office at 729-6900 to reserve your seat for the banquet or stop by the office at 1136 South Main Street in the Crossroads.

Danielle Norris will be leading a “Hello Winter” Sign & Wine workshop this Friday evening from 6:30 to 8:30. If you attended the fall sign class, at this class you can paint the back side of your sign with the winter design. If you didn’t attend the last class, you can just paint the front side with your own winter ideas. Make it your own! You can hand letter it yourself, or add pre cut vinyl lettering. You will end up with a neat personalized sign to display year after year! This class is for persons age 12 and older. If you attended the Fall class, the cost is just $20. If you are a new class participant, the cost is $35 per person and all supplies are provided. Interested persons can sign up under “Programs” at the salemcommunitybetterment.com website for activities at the Creative Arts Center.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse for their regular meeting. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray said grading would be done on Dent County Roads 5015, 6350 and 5600. He said the Title II project rock has now all been delivered to county road 5600. Mobray said work crews were servicing brush cutter #10. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk said grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2150, 4350 and 4353. He said a culvert would be cleaned out on county road 3180 and chip and seal repair work is being done to county road 2240 using the ultimate paving material. Polk also said a brush cutter was being picked up from Heritage Tractor. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson stated the Tourism Tax monies received in November totaled $8,565.85. Dent County County Clerk Angie Curley wanted to remind voters there is no election in Dent County this year in November. Dent County Collector Shannon VanKirk reported the personal property and real estate tax bills are being mailed to those who own property and/or real estate in the county. VanKirk said that if you haven’t received your tax statements by November 15th to please contact her office and they can reprint one for you. Remember, if you own personal property or have real estate in Dent County and you don’t receive your tax statements in the mail, it is still your responsibility to get those taxes paid on time or you will have to pay penalties and interest. If you have questions or need a statement reprinted, call the Dent County Collector at 729-3911. At 10:00, Austin Hostettler and Jeff Banderet of Great Rivers Engineering were in to talk about the FLAP 077 project which is the asphalting of the Tan Vat Road and the courthouse sidewalk TAP grant. The bid for the FLAP project will not be awarded until November 29th, 2024 construction would begin in 2025. This a 100% federally funded project as they want better access on that road and widening it. Great Rivers Engineering will scope the project and get the most possible improvements with the funds that are available. This is a reimbursement program. The TAP grant through MoDOT is a grant with an 80-20 split with MoDOT picking up the 80% and the local match is 20%. The TAP grant is not to exceed $393,283 with the county paying $100,000 as their portion. The work would include replacing the sidewalks and making any access to the sidewalk ADA compliant, and adding handrails where needed around the outer sidewalks. Should the project go over the $393,383, the county would be responsible for that amount in addition to the $100,000. A programming agreement with MoDOT is next and the hiring of consultants. Great Rivers would get the design done and then get new bid numbers. The pre-survey work would cost an estimated $20,000 to $30,000. With the cost of inflation and labor in 2024/25, the county asked Great Rivers to go back to the application and review the scope of work to be done before a decision is made. Banderet will get back with the commission on what he finds. Also at the meeting, Eric Hallerud with Tokio Marine Insurance talked with the commission about the county’s risk management insurance. At the last meeting, the commission discussed insurance deductibles for the county health insurance and voted to continue to do the same as what was done in 2023. The deductible amount is $4,500 per employee, and once the county employee pays the first $2,000, the county will pay the remaining $2,500. If the county employee buys up insurance and has a $3,000 deductible, the employee will pay the provider $500 and the county will pay the remaining $2,500. The next meeting of the commission will be Thursday at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

In a follow-up to the story from the fire that occurred Friday at the corner of Franklin and Highway 19, court documents were filed in circuit court Monday charging 30-year-old Cora M. Marlin of Salem with one felony count of 2nd degree arson with her bond set at $50,000. Surveillance footage showed Marlin leaving the area of the old structure before the smoke appeared. She was arrested a few hours after the fire and admitted in her statement she used a cigarette to light a pile of straw in the building that started the fire. She also said in her statement she tried to hide her identity by dying her hair a different color and wearing different clothing. The charges described above are only accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of those charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty it will be to determine guilt or innocence.

The City of Salem Planning and Zoning Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and meeting this evening at 6:00 at the City Hall Council Chambers at 200 North Washington. The purpose of the hearing and meeting will be to approve minutes of the Board’s October 18th meeting and to accept or reject a conditional use permit at the property at 1509 South Louise Street owned by Michael Florence. The public is welcome to attend.

The American Rally Association sadly announced the death of competitor and driver Jakub (Kubo) Kordisch from Commerce City, Colorado, who passed away Saturday, November 4th, during competition on Stage 9 of the Show-Me Rally in central Missouri on Palmer Road, south of Potosi and northeast of Viburnum. The 42-year-old Kordisch was driving with co-driver Drew Carlson at the time of incident near the end of Stage 9. According to the highway patrol report, Kordisch was traveling westbound in a 2015 Ford Fiesta on Palmer Road near Welker Road in Washington County around 2:50 in the afternoon, when he failed to negotiate a left curve causing the Fiesta to travel off the right road edge of the where the rally car struck a tree. Kordisch was pronounced dead at the scene around 3:15 by the Washington County Coroner. His body was taken to the Washington County Morgue by the coroner. Carlson, from Denver, Colorado, remained on the scene before being transported to the Washington County Memorial Hospital with minor injuries. Both drivers were wearing seat restraints. After the accident, the Show Me Rally organizers and American Rally Association officials canceled the last two rally stages.

Last Friday afternoon around 1:15 to 1:20, the Dent County Fire Protection District was dispatched to the 500 block of South Main for a commercial structure fire in a former car repair shop that was currently unoccupied on property owned by the Trust of Edgar and Wanda Major according to the last plat maps. According to the Dent County Fire Protection District, fire crews responded to extinguish the fire. Due to the age of the building and the fire load, the building is a total loss. The fire had a few hot spots that were still smoldering and igniting into Saturday night. The status of the fire has been identified as an arson fire and is currently under investigation by the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office. According to the district, one arrest has been made in conjunction with their investigation. Assisting at the scene were the Lenox Rural Fire Department and City of Salem personnel to help with the extinguishment. The fire district also wanted to thank the Salem Police Department, Dent County Sheriff’s Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol for help with traffic control. The Dent County Fire Protection District also wanted to send out a big thank you to Phil-Mart for the donation of drinks, and Master Donuts for donating donuts for crew members and other responders to the fire which was greatly appreciated.

An accident happened Sunday morning at 6:00 in Texas County on Highway 63 about four miles north of Licking that took the life of woman from Edgar Springs. According to the highway patrol report, a 2013 Volkswagen Jetta driven southbound by 42-year-old Deann Morris of Edgar Springs, went off the right side of the roadway impacting a guardrail before returning to the road and going off the left side of the roadway impacting another guardrail. The Jetta began overturning, ejecting Morris from the vehicle. The Jetta came to rest in a steep ravine. Morris was pronounced dead at the scene by the Texas County Coroner Marie Lasater Sunday afternoon . Morris was not wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The coroner had the body transported to the Fox Funeral home in Licking. The Jetta was totaled and removed from the scene by Jay’s Automotive from Houston.

An accident occurred Friday evening around 6:44 in Phelps County on County Road 3060 about one mile east of Rolla. According to the highway patrol report, a 1998 Chevrolet Venture driven by 36-year-old Devon Harrison of Rolla, was traveling eastbound and attempted to pass another vehicle. The Chevrolet struck a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado driven by 47-year-old Jeremy Stinson of Rolla, head on. Harrison suffered serious injuries and was transported by Air Evac to the University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia. A passenger in the Sliverado, 52-year-old Rebecca Stinson of Rolla, suffered moderate injuries and Stinson suffered minor injuries. Both injured parties were taken to Phelps Health by Phelps Health Ambulance and were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident. The report states that Harrison was not wearing a safety restraint. The Venture was totaled and removed from the scene by D&D Towing. The Sliverado sustained extensive damage and was towed by C&C Towing.

An accident occurred around 1:13 Sunday morning in Crawford County on Becker Road south of Idlewild Road. According to the highway patrol report, a 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt driven by 18-year-old Trenton Brooks of Cuba, was traveling southbound and went off the roadway and struck a tree. Brooks suffered serious injuries and was transported by the Steelville Ambulance to the Missouri Baptist in Sullivan. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene by Miles Towing. The report goes on to say that Brooks was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident.

An accident happened Thursday afternoon around 2:06 on Highway 106 about five miles from Eminence in Shannon County. According to the highway patrol report, a 2002 Ford Ranger driven westbound by 29-year-old Samuel Williams of Winona, traveled off the right side of the roadway, over corrected and crossed the roadway and overturned. The Shannon County First Responders from Eminence and Birch Tree, along with the Eminence Area Volunteer Fire Department, Shannon County Deputies, and Mercy EMS responded to the crash where the driver had rolled the vehicle, possibly several times, before it came to rest upside-down. Williams was entrapped in the vehicle by the dashboard, which had pinned his legs to the floor of the truck. Firefighters from the Eminence Area Volunteer Fire Department used the “Jaws of Life” and other hydraulic tools to remove the truck’s door and to lift the dashboard off his legs. The First Responders cared for the victim while the firefighters worked, covering both him and the responders with a safety blanket to protect them both from flying glass and metal. Due to Williams wearing a seatbelt and the truck being equipped with airbags, he suffered moderate injuries. He was transported by the Mercy ambulance to the Poplar Bluff Regional Hospital. The Ranger was totaled and removed from the scene by Baker’s Towing.