Local News

An accident happened in Phelps County Sunday night just after 10:00 that took the life of a 16-year-old boy from St. James. According to the highway patrol report, a 2002 Chevy S-10 was being driven by a 16-year boy from St. James northbound when a 16-year-old passenger fell out of the truck bed. The passenger, who was another 16-year-old boy, was pronounced dead at Phelps Health by Dr. Lawrence Hutchinson at 11:27 Sunday evening. The Missouri State Highway Patrol was assisted at the scene by Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and the St. James Ambulance District. The body of the 16-year-old boy was released to the Phelps County Coroner.

An accident happened Saturday afternoon just after 4:00 on Highway 63 about a mile north of Excello that left two people from Rolla with moderate injuries. According to the highway patrol report, a 2106 Dodge 2500 Truck driven northbound by 50-year-old Patrick Johnston of Rolla, struck a slow moving RG31 Military Vehicle from behind that was being driven by 29-year-old Brandon John of Independence. Johnston and an 11-year-old juvenile each suffered moderate injuries. The boy was taken by the Adair County Ambulance to the University Hospital in Columbia while Patrick Johnston was transported by MU 4 to the University Hospital in Columbia. The Missouri State Highway Patrol was assisted by the Macon County Sheriff’s Department, the Macon County Ambulance, the Macon County Rescue Squad, the Macon County First Responders, and the Missouri National Guard. The Dodge was totaled in the accident and removed from the scene by Still’s Towing while the military vehicle was driven from the scene.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse for their regular meeting. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson was not present due to previous commitments, so road supervisor Travis Turner sat in at the meeting to give the road report. District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray stated grading would be done on Dent County roads 5015,6240 and 6670 while brush would be cut on county road 6600. He said a man went to Springfield to get oil to do chip and seal repair. Supervisor Turner said materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Roads 2110, 2115 and 3180 while brush will be cut on county roads 2270 and 2303. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles reported he attended the Transportation Advisory Committee meeting last Thursday at the MRPC and the new Statewide Transportation Improvement Program for the next five years has been released. The proposed program is available for public review and comment which will end this Friday, June 17th. Skiles said this supposedly is the largest STIP program ever. He also said use of funds under the BRO (the off system local bridge replacement program), can now apply to low water crossings. Skiles said MoDOT scheduled start for the resurfacing of Highway 72 from Salem to Rolla is to begin on Monday, June 20th. This will depend on the availability of materials for the job. Skiles said at the Public Housing Authority meeting Thursday, he was elected the new Vice-Chairman; while at the External Relations committee meeting, the date was set for the annual awards meeting which will be held on October 13th at the Vienna Knights of Columbus. Skiles said he would be attending the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District full council meeting today. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley wanted to remind everyone the courthouse will be closed on June 20th for the state holiday of “Juneteenth” and that June 21st will be the first day to vote absentee for the August Primary. Remember you must declare a party to vote for and bring your voter registration or photo ID with you. The last date to register to vote in the Primary will be July 6th. She also said she attended the South Central Regional Clerks meeting on Friday in West Plains. At the last meeting, the commission set the Board of Equalization meeting for July 18th at 1:00 at the commissioner’s office. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Board of Alderman will meet this evening at 6:00 in the City Hall Council Chambers at 202 North Washington Street. The board will read and discuss Bill #3507 which would create an ordinance establishing rates for electric services provided by the City of Salem. In new business the police department will request an approval for a safety grant for a new dog box for animal control. Next, the board will discuss the Library Board’s recommendation to add Leigh Ann Price to the Salem Public Library Board due to the resignation of Ruth Ann Parker. The meeting will then be adjourned.

The City of Salem’s Finance and Capital Improvement Committees will hold a joint meeting at the Council Chambers this evening at 6:30. They will hear an update on audit for fiscal year ending June 2021. Then get an update on the 2021-2022 fiscal year, including capital projects and collaboration agreements. Next go over the 2022-2023 capital project. Finally discuss the 2022-2023 proposed budget. The meeting is open to the public.

Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park has been nominated as one of the “Best State Parks for RVing/Camping” in the nation in USA Today’s 10 Best Reader’s Choice Awards. Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park is home to many natural landscapes like woodlands, glades and rivers. The park has 17 different natural terrestrial communities and supports more than 850 plant species; in fact, it’s home to 40% of the plant species of Missouri. The park supports two outstanding areas designated as Missouri wild areas because of their wilderness qualities. It’s no wonder that the park’s campgrounds have been nominated each year as one of USA Today’s 10Best. You can vote daily until 11:00 in the morning on June 20th to make Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park the #1 Best State Park for RVing/Camping. To vote for Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park, go to www.10best.com/awards and click on the button for Best State Parks for RVing/Camping.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors met Tuesday night at 6:00. The financial report showed an ending balance of 181,254.82 as of May 31st. After the calendar review, the monthly reimbursement report was presented to the board with a total of 20 calls for the month of May bringing the total calls for the year to 134. Of those 20 calls, two were for building fires, two were for and alarm system activation, and two were classified as a special type of incident. One call involved a cooking fire, one trash or rubbish, one outside storage fire, one medical assist call, one vehicle accident, one missing person search, one removal of a person from a stalled elevator, one refrigeration leak, one electrical equipment or wiring problem, one false alarm, and one dispatch that was cancelled in route. In old business, it was noted that a records retention policy was needed for the department and Chief Brad Nash asked the board what they wanted to see and provided examples. The board asked Nash to put something together for the next meeting. In new business, bids were opened and presented for three sets of turnout gear from Sentinel Emergency Solutions for a total of 9,779.00. After some discussion, a motion was made and carried to proceed with the purchase as presented. Bids were also opened for eight SCBA bottles and three Sure seal Kevlar head nets from Feld Fire for 13,236.42. After some board discussion, it was decided to go with 10 bottles versus the eight as presented with the bid. Bids were opened and presented for sidewalk and dispatch window repair. A bid from Willamson American Construction of 3,650.00 for sidewalk repair and 4,500.00 for the replacement and repair of windows in dispatch was received. They required 50% due on delivery of materials and 50% due 30 days after completion. The board approved the bid. Chief Brad Nash presented his plan to the board on the updated version of the chain of command for officers and firefighters. His plan added three Captain positions and placed the Lieutenants over a group of four firefighters. These would be broken up into specific jobs such as safety, training, maintenance, and equipment. The board agreed to the change. Nash also presented the new job descriptions for all officers, firefighters, and dispatch that described the duties and jobs of district personnel providing a roadmap for promotion. The board approved adding the job descriptions in the Policy and Procedures Manual to replace the current descriptions. Before adjourning, the date for the July meeting was set for Tuesday, July 5th at the fire station.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released several reports. On Tuesday, June 7th, deputies responded to County Road 4240 for a report of an assault. As a result, a 39-year-old man was named as a suspect and the investigation into the incident is continuing. That same day, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on East Butler Street. As a result of the stop, a 64-year-old Salem man was found to have revoked driving privileges. Also, at the time of the stop, the man was found to be in possession of a firearm and was later found to be a convicted felon. He was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was fingerprinted, photographed, and released after receiving a citation for a first offense of driving while having his license suspended. A probable cause statement was also submitted to the Dent County Prosecutor’s Office for the unlawful possession of a firearm. Still on June 7th, a deputy responded to the 1800 block of South Oak Street for a reported wanted subject. A 33-year-old Salem woman was arrested on an active Dent County warrant and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. On Thursday June 9th, a deputy made contact with a 39-year-old Salem man after an investigative stop on East Butler Street. As a result, the suspect was found to be in possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. Later that same day, a 47-year-old Salem woman reported that an unknown suspect fraudulently used her credit card without her permission. The investigation into this incident is still ongoing. Please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 729-3241 if you have any information regarding an investigation.

Hospitalman Lucas Green, a native of Licking, serves the U.S. Navy at the U.S. Navy Medical Readiness and Training Command operating out of Sigonella, Italy. Green joined the Navy one and a half years ago. Growing up in Licking, Green attended Licking High School and graduated in 2021. Today, Green uses the same skills and values learned in Licking to succeed in the military. Naval Air Station Sigonella is located in eastern Sicily. With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy. As Green and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy. Congratulations Lucas and thank you for you service!

An accident occurred Saturday evening around 8:27 in Texas County on Highway 32 about five miles west of Licking. According to the highway patrol report a 2013 Chevrolet Malibu driven by 26-year-old Joseph Kaplan of Licking, was travelling eastbound when he failed to negotiate a curve. The Chevrolet ran off the right side of the roadway, returned to the road and then ran off the left side of the roadway, struck several trees, and overturned. Kaplan suffered serious injuries and was transported by air ambulance to Cox South Springfield. The report states that he was not wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene by Jay’s Automotive.

A one vehicle accident happened Thursday night at 10:30 on Maries County Road 8400 about eight miles north of Rolla. According to the highway patrol report, a 2018 Ford F-150 being driven by 62-year-old Kenneth Clements of Rolla, was eastbound when he traveled off the left side of the road, continued through a field and struck a small structure. Clements, who was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident, suffered minor injuries but refused treatment at the scene. The Ford was removed from the scene by C & C Towing with extensive damage.

An accident happened Wednesday night at 9:19 on Highway 72 about a half mile east of Rolla that took the life of a Salem man. According to the highway patrol report. 30-year-old Bradley Gilmore of Salem was driving a 2003 Chevy Cavalier westbound when he crossed the center of the roadway and struck a 2019 Western Star head-on driven by 52-year-old Roger Ferguson of Salem. Gilmore was pronounced dead at the scene by Dr. L. Hutchinson at 9:46 Wednesday night and his body was taken to Rolla Cremation. The Cavalier was totaled in the accident while the Western Star sustained moderate damages. Both vehicles were removed from the scene by Big Boys Towing in Rolla. Gilmore was not wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams presented the sales taxes received by the county this month. For the General Revenue Fund and Law Enforcement Sales Tax Fund, the county received $96,920.38 which is $3,337.27 more than 2021 when the county received $93,583.11. For the year, the county is up $291,553.42 over last year. For the Road and Bridge Department Fund, the county received $45,787.72 this month compared to $44,720.69 received in June of 2021. For the year, the Road and Bridge Department Fund is up $143,957.88. In the two jail funds, the county received $91,542.20 in each fund and that is $2,100.29 more than the 2021 figure of $89,441.91. Each of those funds is up $286,684.40 from last year. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray stated crews were out cleaning up after the storm Wednesday morning where eight trees were blown down. Mobray said materials would be added and grading done on Dent County roads 6630 and 6670 while only grading would be done on county road 6210. He said patch grading was going to be done on county roads 4220 and 5150 while brush would be cut on county road 6660. Travis Turner gave the report for District 2 as Commissioner Larson was not in attendance due to a previous commitment. He said materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Roads 2090, 3170 and 6140 while only grading would be done on county roads 2013, 2100, 2403, 3173 and 3180. Turner said brush would be cut on county roads 2300 and 2303. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles attended the MRPC’s Transportation Advisory Committee, Public Housing Authority meeting, the MRPC Public Relations meeting and the MRPC regular board meeting. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said she balanced with the Collector and Assessor on all collections, abatements, and add-ons. She said all county liquor licenses are due by June 30th and the last day to register to vote for the August Primary will be July 6th at the Collector’s office. The next meeting of the commissioners will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Salem Community Choir will be performing this Sunday afternoon at 2:00 on the court-house lawn. Lemonade and cookies will be served by the Cosmopolitan Club of Salem. There is no cost to attend! Their next performance will be on June 26th at the courthouse lawn at 2:00.

The Missouri Department of Conservation is offering Missouri landowners another way to help manage deer numbers on their properties. MDC’s Deer Management Assistance Program, known as DMAP, can help landowners manage deer on their properties by allowing them and hunters they designate to buy additional firearms permits to take antlerless deer on the properties above and beyond regular season harvest limits. Each permit authorizes the take of one antlerless deer and costs the same as a Firearms Antlerless Permit. Permits may be used during any portion of the firearms deer season with methods allowed during that portion. Permits may only be used on the enrolled DMAP property for which they were issued. According to MDC, the number of deer in a local area varies widely throughout Missouri due to various types and quality of habitat, land-use practices, hunting regulations and harvest levels, and other factors. Any private property of at least 500 acres located outside of municipal boundaries, regardless of the owner’s legal residence, is eligible for the program. For properties inside the boundaries of a city or town, at least 40 acres are required. Individual parcels of land, regardless of ownership, may be combined to satisfy the acreage requirements as long as no parcel of land is more than a half-mile by air from the boundary of another parcel being combined to form an enrolled DMAP property. MDC piloted the program in 2019 on a limited county and regional level. MDC expanded DMAP to additional counties and regions in 2020 and 2021, and now offers it statewide. According to MDC, more than 86,000 acres were enrolled in 2021 and included 89 landowners or landowner cooperatives. Annual DMAP enrollment is available now through October 1st. To learn more about DMAP, including enrollment, visit MDC online at mdc.mo.gov/dmap, or contact your local MDC private land conservationist or conservation agent.

The Salem Board of Aldermen held a special meeting Tuesday evening at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. At the meeting, the board approved Resolution #19-2022 that added June 19th or “Juneteenth” to its list of state holidays where city employees will receive paid time-off. Mayor Greg Parker recommended the addition of Angie Hammons to the Salem Public Library Board to replace Joe Brand who resigned from the board, and also to add Thomas Relford to the Capital Improvement Committee. The board approved his recommendations. The board also approved the closing of South Water from the intersection of Franklin and Water Streets and the end of the Grace Community Church parking lot from 2:00 until 6:30 for the church’s Kids Crusade this Friday, June 10th. The board went on to approve a partial payment of $40,170.75 to Godi Excavating for clearing and erosion work on the Certified Site in the Masters’ Industrial Park. That amount came to 60% of the contracted cost of $70,475. The special meeting was followed by the Utility Committee meeting to discuss electric rates. The committee was provided updated information from Finance Director Stacey Houston on the electric fund, water fund, and sewer fund. The numbers showed the projected balance of the electric fund at the end of the 2021-2022 year at a negative $15,768 with a projected negative balance at the end of the next fiscal year of $1,381,229. The water and sewer fund also showed negative balances at the end of the next fiscal year calling for the committee to adjust rates. Utility Committee Chairman Kyle Williams discussed a Service Availability Fee to cover the deficit, a straight rate increase, or a combination of a fee and rate increase. Not only was the negative fund balance a concern for the utility committee, but the lack of reserves for the electric department. It was determined the city was charging $0.106 per kwh after the last rate increase as the wholesale price they were paying was 6.8 cents per kwh. But after the calculation was made for the last full year, the city was paying $0.1037 per kwh for electric expenses. The committee came down to three options which they voted on: a Service Availability Fee of $43 for everyone every month, a 27% rate increase by itself to cover the deficit, or a hybrid of a $10 Service Availability Fee with a sunset after one year to add money to the electric reserves and a 27% rate increase to cover the deficit. The committee unanimously agreed to recommend the hybrid of a Service Availability Fee and rate increase to the Board of Aldermen at the next meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

A one vehicle accident happened early Wednesday morning just after 5:30 in Phelps County on Highway 68 about 8 miles south of St. James. According to the highway patrol report, a 2018 Mazda CX5 being driven south by 25-year-old Kathy Piatt of Salem, struck a tree that had fallen onto the roadway. Piatt was taken by a private vehicle to the Salem Memorial District Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. The Mazda sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by Whitakers Towing.

An accident happened Tuesday afternoon just after 12:30 in Pulaski County on westbound Interstate 44 near the 167.5 mile-marker. The report from the highway patrol states that a 2022 Mazda CX5 being driven by 34-year-old Hillary Sullivan of High Ridge was struck from behind by a 2014 Ford Escape being driven by 46-year-old David Bridges of Rolla. Bridges suffered serious injuries. The driver of the Mazda, along with two passengers, 68-year-old Cynthia Asher of Crestwood and a 12-year-old girl, all suffered minor injuries. All of the injured parties were transported by ambulance to Phelps Health Hospital in Rolla. The report went on to state that all involved were wearing seat restraints at the time of the accident. Both vehicles were totaled and removed from the scene by T and C Towing.

The Missouri Department of Conservation invites the public to get hooked on fishing through its Free Fishing Days this Saturday and Sunday. During Free Fishing Days, anyone may fish in the Show-Me State without having to buy a fishing permit, trout permit, or trout park daily tag. Free Fishing Days is an annual MDC event that takes place statewide during the Saturday and Sunday following the first Monday in June. Aside from not needing permits, other fishing regulations remain in effect during Free Fishing Days, such as limits on size and number of fish an angler may keep. Special permits may still be required at some county, city, or private fishing areas. Trespass laws remain in effect on private property. MDC reminds anglers in Missouri that fishing permits are required before and after June 11th and 12th, unless an angler is exempt by age or other factors. All other fishing regulations are also in effect.

Montauk State Park will be hosting a free Fly-Fishing Clinic this Saturday afternoon at 1:00. The clinic will be held in the field adjacent to the Dorman L. Steelman Lodge. The clinic is open to all ages and skill levels. Experienced anglers will demonstrate fly fishing and casting techniques. Participants will be able to practice in the open field. Trout park fishing strategies and successful trout fishing tactics will be discussed. No registration is required. For more information contact the park at 573-548-2201.

An accident happened in Franklin County on Highway 47 near Route K Monday afternoon at 3:46. According to the highway patrol report, a 2019 Chevy Spartan Cargo Van driven northbound by 50-year-old John Brame, Jr. of Steelville, failed to yield to a 2016 Freightliner driven westbound by 73-year-old Stephen Seipp of Collinsville, Illinois, as they entered the intersection. The highway patrol report indicates the Freightliner swerved to avoid the cargo van and went into the ditch striking an embankment where the Freightliner’s cargo tank overturned. The cargo van traveled off the left side of the roadway into the ditch and struck an embankment. Suffering serious injuries was John Brame, Jr and he was taken by the St. Clair Ambulance District to the Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan. Everyone involved was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Freightliner was totaled while the cargo van sustained extensive damage. They were both removed from the scene by Hoffman’s Towing.

An accident happened on Highway 17 in Summersville Monday afternoon at 5:20. According to the highway patrol report, a 2000 GMC Sierra driven westbound by a 17-year-old juvenile of Eminence, failed to yield and pulled into the path of a 2002 Jeep Wrangler driven southbound by 40-year-old Samuel Jordan of Salem, where the Wrangler struck the Sierra. A nine-year-old juvenile of Salem suffered serious injuries while a 10-year-old minor from Salem suffered minor injuries. Both were taken to the St. Francis Hospital in Mountain View by the Summersville Police Department. Everyone except the driver of the GMC Sierra was wearing their seat restraint at the time of the accident. The GMC Sierra was removed from the scene by Baker’s Towing of Birch Tree while the Wrangler was left roadside with moderate damages.

An accident happened in Texas County on Highway 63 about four miles north of Houston Sunday afternoon around 5:00. According to the highway patrol report, a 2012 Ford Fusion driven by 26-year-old Jessica York of Summersville, crossed over the centerline and struck a 2019 Ford Edge driven northbound by 55-year-old Steven McGuire of Licking. The collision caused both vehicles to overturn. McGuire suffered serious injuries and was taken by a private vehicle to the Texas County Memorial Hospital. Both drivers were wearing seat restraints at the time of the accident. Both vehicles were totaled and removed from the scene by Jay’s Automotive.

You are invited on Friday to the Creative Arts Center for a Locker Hook Class with Jan Rensch of Licking, from 5:00 until 7:00. Locker hooking requires a special hook that has a crochet type hook on one end and an eye on the other. During the process of locker hooking yarn is pulled through the loops made by pulling strips of fabric through a canvas, which “locks” the fabric in place. Locker hook can be used to make trivets (hot pads), placemats, runners, coasters, pillows, and wall hangings to name a few of the endless possibilities. To register for the class, call 573-247-0651. The cost for the class is $30 and that includes all supplies.

In closed session on Thursday, June 2nd, the Salem R-80 Board of Education hired Middle School Special Education instructor Janeal Tominitz, Middle School Education teacher Janet Creek, High School Special Education instructor Lisa Mast, STUCO Sponsor Brook Rogers, and Junior Class Sponsor Sarah Sanders. The board approved reimbursing Gannon Craig for the cost of being released from his existing contract, and to pay Hazel Krewson a $2,500 stipend to combine the ISS and credit recovery. In sports, the board agreed to hire Jordan McLaurin for High School Golf, and Kolson Seay as an Assistant Football Coach and Assistant Track Coach. The board went on to employ Sarah Russell to a one-year contract as the Middle School Principal for the 2022-2023 school year. The board then exited out of closed session before adjourning the meeting.

Team members at Echo Bluff State Park invite women to participate in a Dutch oven cooking class from 6:00 until 8:00 this Thursday evening. This class is part of the “Women Outdoors” series of classes for women taught by women being held at Echo Bluff State Park and Current River State Park from April to September. In this class participants will learn how to cook “wild” and store-bought dishes, including a vegetarian dish. All equipment will be provided. Participants must be 16 years old to attend. Registration is required. For information on these series of classes or to register, contact Connie at 573-751-1224 or connie.weber@dnr.mo.gov.

Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt announced that the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District, affirmed the convictions of Eric A. Hines on Thursday, May 26th, in connection with sexual acts that involved a child under 12-years-old in 2017 and 2018. On an appeal from the Circuit Court of Dent County, the Southern District denied his assertion that the trial court erred in overruling Hines’ motion to suppress statements and in overruling Hine’s motion to dismiss in violation of his right to a speedy trial. Hines was convicted of one count of statutory sodomy in the first degree for acts that involved a child under 12-years-old. The jury sentenced Hines to 75 years in prison, and the appeals court affirmed the district court’s ruling.

An accident occurred Sunday afternoon around 1:51 in Dent County on Route K about one mile south of Route E. According to the highway patrol report, a 2010 Dodge Durango driven by 34-year-old Wadonda Todd of Salem, was leaving a driveway and pulled into the path of a 1997 Ford F-150 driven by 33-year-old Randy Camden of Salem. Todd suffered moderate injuries and was transported by ambulance to the Salem Memorial District Hospital. The Ford was totaled and towed by private party to a residence. The Dodge was also totaled and removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing. The report goes on to state that Todd was not wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The highway patrol was assisted by the Dent County Sheriff’s Department.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday at the courthouse for their regular meeting. Commissioner Gary Larson was not in attendance due to a previous commitment. At the meeting, Salem and Dent County Economic Development Director Sally Burbridge gave her monthly report and stated there were three new leads for economic prospects whose specs could be met by available buildings in Dent County. She said to date there are 442 city and county business licenses, and that she purged from the website business directory those businesses that had not renewed their license. She said applications for the “Welcome Home” program are still being accepted and they are specifically needing veteran families to apply to fill some vacancies in future rounds. The certified site needs to be graded and seeded and she is still waiting on the ASTM Standard soils report from April. Burbridge reported the Dent County unemployment rate went from 4.1% in March to 2.8% in April. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray stated workers would be servicing grader #24 and 38, patching chip and seal roads with the Ultimate Paving Material, and also working on the New Holland tractor getting it ready to sell. For District 2, Road Supervisor Travis Turner reported materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 3180, if weather allows; and grading would be done on county road 2070. Turner said materials would also be added to county roads 2403 and 3200 while brush would be cut on county road 4280. He said a crew was working on the hydraulic lift cylinder on the roller and two guys went to Springfield to get the Mack truck that had to have a software update. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles wanted to salute and thank those who made the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Business Expo and a “Taste of Dent County” a success this past Saturday in Salem. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said the last day to register to vote for the August 2nd Primary will be July 6th. She said she would also be attending a South Central County Clerk’s meeting in West Plains Friday to get update on new things coming up. Amber Pryor representing parents of the Salem High School Chamber Singers asked the commission for permission to sell snow cones on the courthouse lawn during the 4th of July Parade to raise funds for the singers to go to Nationals in Orlando next year. The commission approved the request. The commissioners received three bids for a UTV for the Dent County Sheriff’s Department. Two bids came from Stahlman Powersports from Rolla. One for a 2022 Polaris Ranger Crew 1000 for $34,414.16 and another bid for a 2022 Kawasaki Pro FXT for $34,323.01. They also received one bid from Cowtown USA for a 2022 Can-Am Defender HD9 Max DPS Camo for $32,542.00 with a five-year warranty. Sheriff Bob Wells recommended the Can-Am and the UTV will be paid for out of ARPA funds. At the last meeting, Sheriff Bob Wells discussed a heat pump for the 9-1-1 office and $4,200 will be paid four out of the building and grounds fund for the pump. The next meeting will be held on Thursday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

A special meeting of the Board of Aldermen of the City of Salem will be this evening at 6:00 at The Salem Community Center @ The Armory. The board will consider Resolution No. 19-2022 which would revise and amend the City’s Personnel Manual to recognize and include Juneteenth to the list of paid holidays for City Employees. The board will discuss the appointment of Ms. Angie Hammons to the Salem Public Library Board to replace Joe Brand who resigned from the board. They will also discuss the request from the Grace Community Church to block Water Street from the south end of our parking lot at 600 South Water to the corner of Water and Franklin for the purpose of holding a Kids Crusade on June 10th from 2:00 to 6:30. The board will then review bills over $3,000 which includes one from Godi’s Excavating for Salem lot clearing and erosion control. After the council meeting, the Utility Committee will hold a meeting at 6:30. They will discuss the electric service availability fee and kWh rate recommendations for Aldermen. Next, they will go over water and sewer rates. The meetings are open to the public.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education held a special meeting Thursday evening at the District Administrative Offices. Superintendent Dr. Lynne Reed discussed preliminary numbers in getting the budget prepared including the cost of current staff if the board opts into the legislature’s proposal to increase the minimum wage for teachers to $38,000. Reed reported the estimated cost would be $193,550 and the state would pick up $135,485 of that and R-80 would pay $58,065. Salem would also have to pay $28,065 more in retirement benefits and $2,800 in Medicare. She also discussed what it would cost if the board approved an increase for classified staff of 1.75 percent which would be $28,766, and if the increase were 3.0 percent, the cost would increase to $51,531. Reed went on to say if the board wanted to give teachers that already made $38,000 on the salary schedule an extra payment of $500, it would cost the district $42,477; and if the board authorized an additional $1,000, the cost would jump to $84,954. The board was concerned as to what happens if the program is not funded after one year and how or if the district would be able to sustain those salaries. The board also agreed that no changes would be made to the current salary schedule, and they were leaning toward making a 13th payment at the end of the year to cover the increase in salary if the Governor signs the bill. Superintendent Reed said the transportation department will receive $93,375 for fiscal year 2022 and will be fully funded at $227,014 for fiscal year 2023. She went on to discuss the moving of $813,535 in WADA funds and the recoding of Classroom Trust Fund proceeds that would come to $528,972. By doing that, the balance at the end of the 2022-2023 fiscal year in Fund 4 which is used for capital projects and building is expected to be $2,158,000. After the discussion, the board approved a step increase for all employees for the 2022-2023 fiscal year but took no action on the state grant to pay teachers a minimum salary of $38,000, or on the extra payments for classified staff or certified teachers. Salem and Dent County Economic Development Director Sally Burbridge was in attendance to answer any questions about the ten-year loan at 3.75% from the Community Foundation of the Ozarks to make up the difference in the shortage of YOP Tax credit funds to get started with the Construction Trades Building project. Board member Phillip Mercer said he got a quote on a Red Iron Building from Roberts-Judson about the same size as the proposed building for about $140,000, but that would be a change from the original plans submitted. The board took no action except to see if there are federal procurement guidelines that need to be followed and to see if the CDBG grant would accept a change to the Construction Trades building plans. After a long discussion, the board agreed to accept the municipal lease with a buy-out option for $1,857,291. The lease is for a ter- secured through Signature Public Funding from m of 15-years at a 3.39% interest rate that is ESP for the Tin Gym and Locker Room renovations. The board also approved a resolution to join MOCAAT which is an investment company dealing with schools and municipalities. They can provide a three-year cash analysis for the school. There is no cost unless the school would use their services. The board accepted the resignations of high school English teacher Alec Conner and Sean Guffey who was in high school special education. The board then went into closed session.

An accident happened Saturday afternoon in Phelps County on County Road 1030 about two miles north of St. James just after 1:30 that resulted in injuries to two teenagers. According to the highway patrol report, a 2011 Polaris RZR 800 being operated by a 16-year-old boy of St. James was travelling north when it began to slide off the road. The Polaris then overturned and ejected a passenger, a 15-year-old girl, also of St. James. The vehicle then came to rest, partially blocking the roadway. The 16-year-old driver suffered moderate injuries and was transported by family to Phelps Health Hospital. The passenger was transported by Phelps Health to Children’s Hospital in St. Louis with serious injuries. The report went on to state that neither were wearing safety devices at the time of the accident. The Polaris sustained minor damage and was removed by C & C Towing.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department released several reports. On Sunday, May 29th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on Highway 68. During the stop, a 59-year-old Salem woman was found to be intoxicated and in possession of a firearm. The suspect was transported to the Dent County Jail and placed on a 24-hour hold. Later that same day, a deputy responded to Dent County Road 4155 for a reported assault. During the investigation, a 34-year-old person from Salem was arrested and transported to the Dent County Jail. The suspect was fingerprinted, photographed, and charged on a criminal citation of Assault in the 4th Degree. Then on Tuesday, May 31st, a deputy responded to South Warfel Street for a reported wanted subject with outstanding warrants. During the investigation, a 27-year-old Salem woman was transported to the Dent County Jail where she was incarcerated on multiple warrants. On Thursday, June 2nd, deputies responded to the Salem Eagle’s Club for a reported theft of money. Upon arrival, suspect information was provided and the investigation is ongoing. If you have any further information regarding any ongoing investigation, call the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 729-3241.

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning at the courthouse for their regular meeting. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray indicated materials would be added and grading done on numerous county roads including Dent County Roads 5130, 6220, 6600 and 6620 while only grading would be done on county roads 5140, 6240 and 6610. Mobray went on to say brush would be cut on county roads 4110, 4180 and 4210. He stated the commission would seek bids on their 1996 New Holland 6640 Tractor with the Tiger Brush Cutter. The tractor has new brakes and air conditioner and more. Bids will be accepted in the county clerk’s office until 10:00 the morning of June 23rd for the tractor. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson said materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 2210 while only grading would be done on county road 2020. He said rock would be added to county roads 2030 and 3180 and brush was going to be cut on county road 4280. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles wanted to congratulate the Salem Running Club and thank all the sponsors and participants of the First Annual Salem 5K/10K and Color Run held this past Saturday morning on making it a tremendous success. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said applications for the Lead-based Paint Hazard Control Program issued through the Meramec Regional Planning Commission are available at the courthouse. The program is to address childhood lead poisoning in all the Meramec Region including Dent, Crawford, Phelps and other counties in south central Missouri. Our goal is to determine if a child is being exposed to lead-based paint hazards in the home. If lead-based paint hazards are present, the MRPC will then determine the best strategy to eliminate the hazards from the property and to make the home lead safe. The Lead-based Paint Hazard Control Program is a grant funded program. Every project is eligible for up to $15,000 in funds. Owner occupant projects are completed at no cost to the resident. Rental property projects require a 15% cash match by the property owner. This includes the process of lead inspection/risk assessment, lead removal, clearance testing and temporary relocation (if needed) while the lead safe work is being performed. For more information, contact Patrick Stites at the MRPC office at 265-2993, ext. 135 or e-mail pstites@meramecregion.org. Curley also said business that have liquor licenses with the county must have them renewed by June 30th in order to legally sell alcohol. She recommends you bring in your renewed state license when coming to her office to renew your county license. Fees vary on the type of service your business offers. Harold Tubbs from Dent County Road 5015 was in to inquire about some ditch and culvert work needed at his home. At the last meeting, the commission heard from Dent County Health Center Director Zach Moser as he discussed with the commission various projects they could use ARPA funds for. The commission did unanimously approve a project to increase the Community Messaging Capability up to $37,000. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The City of Salem will be doing curbside yard waste pick-up on Monday, June 6th. Items that will be picked up by the city include limbs and branches that are cut to a length of 4 feet or less, and grass that is bagged in recyclable leaf bags which can be purchased at the city utility office $2.50 for ten bags. The city will pick up yard waste that has been properly bagged, cut, and placed at the edge of the curb or sidewalk. They ask that you do not block the sidewalk or place items in the street. The city of Salem reserves the right to charge for exceptionally large volumes of yard waste or to recommend removal by a private company. Items that will not be picked up include appliances, household trash, tires, electronics, lumber or building materials, furniture, or recyclables. For more information, call the city at 729-4811.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is conducting a Youth Academy Program from July 28th through the 31st for high school students interested in a career in law enforcement. Students must be between the ages of 16 and 18 and must be in good physical condition. There is no cost required to attend. Cadets enrolled in the program will have the opportunity to learn what it takes to become a law enforcement officer, experience police training, and participate in military drills. They will be exposed to the different jobs available at the Missouri State Highway Patrol including the canine division, the aircraft division. the water patrol, criminal investigations and more. The camp will be held this year at Camp Mahaska in Bourbon and they will accept about 40 students to the camp. For more information or to get an application, contact Corporal Tony Sandoval at 573-308-8507 or e-mail him at antonio.sandoval@mshp.dps.mo.gov.

Be sure to visit the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center from June 6th through July 31st for a display honoring Missourian Thomas Hart Benton. On display will be a scaled replica of the Thomas Hart Benton mural. The mural was commissioned in 1935 and completed in 1936. The mural explores the history and tales of Missouri’s past. If you have questions, would like more information, or would like to volunteer please call Liz Condray at 573-729-0029.

The Salem Senior Center on Tuesday began offering the Summer Food Service Program this year which allows children from five to 18 years of age to get a free lunch and snack, Monday through Friday. The children will eat the same healthy and nutritious menu as the seniors eat. Parents can find out what is on the menu daily by listening to KSMO Radio (AM 1340, FM 95.7 and ksmoradio.com) around 8:00 in the morning as the menu is read during the Civic Record and again about ten minutes later. The children will be eating inside in the air-conditioned dining room as they cannot take the meal “to go.” Parents are welcome to have lunch at the center with their children for $7.00 per person. The Summer Food Service Program lunch is served for the children from 11:30 in the morning until 12:30 in the afternoon, Monday through Friday; and snacks will be available from 1:00 until 2:00 the same days. The children will also have to eat the snacks on site. The Summer Food Service Program will be available at the Salem Senior Center until the kids go back to school in August. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Jody Schaefer at the Salem Senior Center at 729-2373.

The Salem Police Department released these reports. On the morning of Saturday April 30th at approximately 5:30 officers were contacted for an intoxicated male at Dirt Cheap. When Officers arrived, they knew the subject from other encounters and were informed the male had an active warrant. As a result, 25-year-old Michael Shaw of Salem was arrested and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail on his no bond warrant out of the Dent County Sheriff’s Office. Later that evening around 11:30 an officer conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Main and Center Street for a vehicle crossing the center line of traffic. While speaking with the driver of the vehicle it was apparent the subject was impaired. Following a short investigation, a 20-year-old Salem female was arrested for DWI and later released on summons. Then on the evening of Sunday May 1st at approximately 9:00 an officer noticed a male subject that had a warrant for his arrest, who was near the intersection of Main and Franklin. After contact was made with the subject and the warrants were confirmed 21-year-old Shane Murr of Salem was arrested and incarcerated in the Dent County Jail on the warrants with no bond. On the evening of Tuesday May 3rd around 6:00 an officer was dispatched to Casey’s on Main Street for a report of an intoxicated subject. While at the call officers noticed a subject, they knew to have active warrants. As a result, officers arrested 29-year-old Ashlie Sapaugh for warrants out of the Phelps County Sheriff’s Office and Rolla Police Department. Sapaugh was incarcerated with no bond awaiting extradition. Then on Thursday May 5th near midnight an officer conducted a traffic stop at Wal Mart for numerous lane violations. During the traffic stop it was found that the subject was impaired. An investigation was conducted, as a result a 31-year-old Kentucky female was arrested for DWI along with possession of controlled substance and then later released on summons. Please call the Salem Police at 729-4242 if you have any information regarding ongoing investigations.

An accident happened Friday night just after 10:15 in Phelps County at 15th Street and Old St. James Road. According to the highway patrol report, 2004 Saturn L300 being driven by 42-year-old Michael Hook of Rolla, was being pursued by Rolla Police. The Saturn traveled through the intersection of 15th Street and Old St. James Road and struck concrete. The Saturn then crossed Missouri Street, striking a utility pole and a fire hydrant at which time Hook was ejected from the vehicle. The Saturn went on to strike a parked and unoccupied 2012 Mazda 5. Hook was taken by private conveyance to Phelps Health Hospital for the treatment of minor injuries. A passenger in the vehicle, 35-year-old Holly Smith of Rolla suffered serious injuries and was taken by ambulance to Phelps Health Hospital. The report stated Hook was wearing a safety restraint while Smith was not. The Saturn was totaled and removed from the scene by Dishman’s Towing. The Mazda had moderate damage and was left at the scene.

Travelin’ Kind a husband and wife duo Mickey Sandora and Trisha Leone will perform 60’s and 70’s rock n roll, classic country, and some original music at Echo Bluff State Park as part of their summer concert series on Saturday evening at 8:00 in the outdoor amphitheater. Bring a blanket or a chair, dress for the occasion, and enjoy a night of music under the stars.