Local News

Excessive heat this week could mean the City of Salem electric utility might set a new peak. There is no specific action required at this time, but things could change quickly, and the city administration asks that all electric utility customers conserve or reduce your electrical usage as much as reasonably possible. Missouri Public Utility Alliance, or MPUA, the City of Salem’s electrical supplier, is not seeing huge price increases or reliability concerns at this time. A peak warning means there is a chance that a new peak could be set for City of Salem electric customers. Although there are no electric market supply and demand issues right now, setting a new peak does have many consequences. Setting a new peak demand would have cost impacts on the cost to the city to purchase power and that would be reflected on your utility bill moving forward. For tips and ideas on how to conserve electricity and reduce your monthly utility bill check out the “Summer Home Efficiency Tips from MPUA” available on the city of Salem website at salemmo.com. This flyer was also included as an insert in last month’s utility bills. The City appreciates everyone’s understanding and assistance in keeping electric usage as low as possible during this time of excessive heat. For questions about your bill call the city of Salem utility office at 729-4117.

The City of Salem Planning and Zoning Board of Adjustment will meet this evening at 6:00 at the City Hall Council Chambers for a public hearing to be followed by a public meeting. The hearing will allow the public to speak on the request for a variance from the Salem Code of Ordinances to move the current McDonalds sign on Highway 19 to their new location at 202 East Scenic Rivers Blvd owned by the McDonalds Real Estate Company. After the hearing is closed, the board will discuss whether to accept or reject the request before they adjourn. The hearing and meeting are both open to the public.

An accident happened Tuesday morning just after 9:00 in Phelps County on Highway 8 east of Highway 68. According to the highway patrol report, a 2011 Ford F-150 being driven by 80- year-old Floyd Haffer of St. James, was traveling eastbound when he traveled off the right side of roadway and struck a mailbox. The Ford then returned to the road and began traveling east again. Haffer stopped and started traveling in reverse, striking the front of a 2016 Freightliner being driven by 36 year old Allen Williams, also of St. James. Haffer suffered minor injuries and was taken to Phelps Health Hospital in Rolla by St. James ambulance. The Ford was totaled and removed from the scene by Spurgeons Towing while the Freightliner had minor damage and was able to be driven from the scene. The report went on to state that both drivers were wearing safety restraints.

Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley has released some reports from cases heard Wednesday in front of Judge Michael Randazzo in Dent County. In the first case heard, Clayton David Korman of Rolla pleaded guilty to a felony charge of resisting arrest and driving while having his license revoked as a persistent felony offender. Randazzo sentenced Korman to serve ten years in the Department of Corrections under the RSMO Section 559.115 program as requested by Prosecutor Curley. In the next case, Robert Michael Lee of Salem pleaded guilty to driving while being intoxicated, his third offense. Lee had two prior convictions from the year 2000 or earlier. Lee was sentenced to serve seven years in the Department of Corrections with the execution of that sentence being suspended with five years probation. Lee was ordered to complete the alternative sentencing court. The next case of the day was a sentencing hearing for Mitchell Allen Warren of Salem who pleaded guilty pursuant to an alford plea to felony stealing. Prosecutor Curley sought ten years in the Department of Corrections under RSMO Section 559.115. Warren sought probation with a credit for the 121 days served in jail. Randazzo sided with Prosecutor Curley and sentenced Warren to serve ten years under RSMO Section 559.115. The next case presented was for Tyler Ray Nichols of Rolla who pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of a controlled substance for meth and fentanyl, plus one count for the felony stealing of a firearm and one count of stealing a motor vehicle. Nichols was sentenced to 12- years in the Department of Corrections under RSMO Section 559.115 as requested by Prosecutor Curley. In the next case, Judge Randazzo revoked the probation of Austin Dwain Hill of Bunker for the commission of new offenses, and executed his 14-year sentence to be served in the Department of Corrections. He had been sentenced to the RSMO Section 559.115 program after pleading guilty to a litany of stealing offenses, property damage and felony possession of a controlled substance. The next case to be heard was that of Timothy Michael Wilson of St. Louis. His probation was confessed and then revoked, and he was required to serve his seven-year sentence as requested by Prosecutor Curley. Judge Randazzo then held a probation revocation hearing. Defendant Austin Tyler Light of Salem was found to have violated his probation. Light sought continuance of his probation while Prosecutor Curley sought the execution of a ten-year sentence. Judge Randazzo sentenced Light to a total of 10 years in the Department of Corrections as requested by the prosecutor.

The Meramec Regional Planning Commission has announced that Gasconade County and the city of Hermann will host MRPC’s 2023 annual dinner and award ceremony on October 26th at the Hermannhof Festhalle in Hermann. The annual dinner highlights some of the best volunteer efforts and hopefully inspires others to serve and provides an idea for an activity or program in another community. MRPC will also recognize some youth volunteers in hopes of encouraging other youth to volunteer in their communities and to promote life-long volunteerism. Residents in Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties may purchase tickets at a cost of $40 to attend the dinner and awards ceremony beginning in September. To keep up with the latest MRPC news and events, visit the MRPC website at www.meramecregion.org or on Facebook.

The Salem Board of Aldermen met for their regular meeting Tuesday evening at the City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor Greg Parker was unable to attend so the President of the Board, Shawn Bolerjack, ran the meeting. After the agendas were approved, Public Works Director Mark Nash discussed bids for a batwing bush hog the city will use for common grounds including the new certified site and at the old landfill. Nash said they looked at the 2023 John Deere FC15M with the wing rotary cutter that had a five-year warranty from Heritage Tractor in Rolla, and the Rhino 2150 cutter from Salem Farm Equipment that also had a five-year warranty. After some questions and discussion, the board went with the John Deere for $22,000 which is $1,750 more than budgeted. The board also approved making a budget adjustment of $1,750 from the surplus balance fund to cover the difference. The board approved the bid of $2,400 from Rood and Associates for a 3rd party estimate of the costs for the construction of the six unit T-Hanger at the airport. This is a MoDOT requirement for any project that costs over $100,000 and it will be reimbursed as part of the grant. Only $2,000 was budgeted for this item and the other $400 would come from the fund balance. Finance Director Stacey Houston went over the financials for the last fiscal year and said the city started with a balance in all funds of $5,321,000 and finished the year with a balance in all funds of $8,144,000 or an increase of 2.8 million dollars. That was an increase of $2.5 million dollars over the anticipated budget amount. Houston said sales tax revenues were up about 9.4% in all funds and all the utilities showed an increase in revenues over expenses, much of that was due to rate increases passed on during the year. The board heard the first reading of Bill #3554 that would create an ordinance to amend the annual budget for the City of Salem for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023. They then heard the second reading of Bill #3553 authorizing the mayor to execute contracts between the City of Salem and the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission to aid in the construction of a six unit T-Hanger project at the Salem Memorial Airport. The bill was then approved. Parks and Recreation Director Melissa Dubois reported there will be a night swim at the Alice Lou Craig Municipal Pool from 6:00 until 9:30 on July 31st, August 1st and 2nd for $5.00 per person. She said the pool will officially close on August 13th. Dubois said she had 22 participants in the Kids Camp at the Salem City Park this year which went very well. Alderwoman Kala Sisco said there will be a “Back to School Bash” at the Commons August 16th through the 18th put on by community churches. She also said Intercounty Electric will be showing the movie “Finding Nemo” at the Salem City Park at the 1st pavilion as you enter the park this Saturday night. Sisco said if anyone would be interested in serving on the Community Services Committee, please contact the city administrative offices and let them know you would be interested. The meeting was then adjourned.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department reports that on July 19th, officers of the Rolla Area Drug Enforcement Task Force, Dent County Sheriff’s Office, Rolla Police Department, Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, and Salem Police Department concluded a short-term narcotics investigation in Dent County. The investigation was concentrated in the 300 block of Dent County Road 4215 and the 12000 block of Highway 32. Four people were arrested from the investigation. They included 39-year-old David Sutton of Salem who was charged with two counts of trafficking of a controlled substance and one count of maintaining a public nuisance with a cash or surety bond of $100,000; 34-year-old Ryan Lumsden of Salem who was charged with two counts of trafficking of a controlled substance, the unlawful possession of a firearm, and unlawful use of a firearm with a cash or surety bond of $100,000; 39-year-old Michael Stewart who was charged with two counts of child endangerment and one count of possession of a controlled substance with a cash or surety bond of $25,000; and 27-year old Emma Poling of Salem was charged with two counts of child endangerment and one count of possession of a controlled substance with a cash or surety bond of $25,000. Two search warrants were executed on these residences by law enforcement officers. As a result of the search, officers seized fentanyl, methamphetamine and illegally possessed firearms. The charges against Sutton, Lumsden, Stewart and Poling are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty it will be to determine guilt or innocence.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways will be conducting two managed deer hunts in October at Big Spring. These hunting opportunities are being extended to two special groups of the nation’s population, our youth and our military service members with permanent mobility impairments. The Managed Deer Hunt application period for both hunts is now through July 31st. A total of 10 randomly selected hunters will be chosen for each hunt. The youth hunt will be held October 7th and 8th. Anyone interested in applying for this hunt must apply online through the Missouri Department of Conservation at mdc.mo.gov/managedhunt. The Exceptional Warrior Mobility-Impaired managed hunt will be held October 21st and 22nd. Portions of the Big Spring area will be temporarily closed to the public during both hunts on the following dates: Friday, October 6th through Sunday, October 8th, and Friday, October 20th through Sunday, October 22nd. All areas will reopen the Monday following each hunting event. These closures help ensure public safety during these activities and include the Big Spring Campground, Peavine pavilion area, all hiking trails within the Big Spring area and Peavine Road (Peavine Road only closed during Foundation for Exceptional Warriors hunt). Big Spring and the boat ramp will remain open during the hunts and can be accessed from Hwy 103. For more information on The FEW, visit their website at www.exceptionalwarriors.org, or phone (918) 824-1094. For more information, visit the park’s Facebook page, visit the park website at www.nps.gov/ozar, or phone (573) 323-4236.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse for their regular meeting. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson was not in attendance at the start of the meeting for a family emergency but later called in and had nothing to report except to say that engineer Corky Stack would be by to talk with the commission about what to do with the scrap aluminum and copper removed from the courthouse. District 1 commissioner Wes Mobray was appointed to serve as acting presiding commissioner for the day. Grant Wilson from Representative Jason Smith’s office was in attendance and updated the commission on the Biden IRS Investigation, and also talked about the investigation with the FBI and Department of Justice to find out the facts as to why US District Attorney David Weiss was unable to file charges against Hunter Biden. In the road report, Mobray said his crews were out checking roads for washouts and downed trees from the storm early Monday morning. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk said crews were adding materials to Dent County Roads 2170 and 4380 and would try to grade county road 4380 as well as county road 3140. Polk said downed trees were removed from county roads 4380 and 2540, crews would be cleaning out a culvert on county road 3200 and also repairing a washout on county road 2150. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said all tax entities should be scheduling their public tax rate hearings and advertising them as required by law. Dent County Collector Shannon VanKirk reported the City of Salem Board of Alderman has signed a four-year contract with the county to collect their real estate and property taxes as well as the taxes of the Salem Public Library. The next meeting or the commissioners will be Thursday morning at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education met Thursday evening at the district administrative board room. The board received a “thank you” note from Caleb Ingram for receiving the Jeans Scholarship. In the superintendent’s report Dr. Lynne Reed discussed with the board the 2023 assessed valuation for real estate and personal property, the current bonding capacity of the district, and potential ballot initiatives. She also said the district is putting together a punch list to give to ESP that will finish up the tin gym project. Reed said the board and administration will hold an upcoming pre-construction meeting on the Construction Trades Building with the general contractor as well as the MRPC and representatives from the CDBG. Reed said the middle school has been identified as a school for Additional Targeted Support for Improvement (ATSI) by DESE. The district is working on the middle school Plan to address this and so that it will align with the CSIP. Reed stated the new “Tiger Training” is scheduled for August 14th and 15th while the administration back to school meeting with all staff will be August 21st. The board is invited to the breakfast on August 14th and August 21st. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Nathan Wills is working on a process to comply with the new legislation requiring testing water in schools for lead. Reed indicated the tech department is in the process of installing new phones throughout the district’s buildings. This is a huge upgrade for the district as they are making the transition to “Infinite Campus” as the student information system. After the reports from the building principals, the board approved the revised Chromebook policy, Personnel Handbook changes, and revisions to board policy JG-R4 concerning the dress code. The board approved putting out a request for proposals for a camera system at the district, approved a contract with Wagner Portrait Group for school pictures through 2026, and approved declaring a freezer as surplus property. The board reviewed the building handbook changes and considered Board Governance training before approving a memorandum of understanding for changes with the Dent County Health Department. The board went on to approve the 2023-2024 meal prices and the OPAA! Food Management, Inc. contract. The board then set the tax rate hearing for the Salem R-80 District for 5:30 on August 17th with the regular board meeting scheduled to begin at 5:45 that same evening at the district administrative offices. The board accepted the resignation of custodian William Machs and the retirement of Superintendent Dr. Lynne Reed effective June 30, 2024. In closed session, the board approved hiring Rene Moncrief as a teacher and they also talked about a personnel issue. The board then adjourned the meeting.

The Salem Board of Aldermen will be holding their regular meeting this evening beginning at 6:00 at the city Hall Council Chambers. At the meeting, the board will hear bids on a new batwing bush hog and then discuss an invoice from Rood and Associates for an independent cost estimate needed by the city for the construction of the airport “T-Hanger.” City of Salem Treasurer Stacey Houston will then present the actual end of the fiscal year financials that show an increase of $2,822.72 in the total fund balances over fiscal year 22-23. She also said sales tax revenues came in about 9.4% more than the previous year. In almost all cases, revenues came in more than what was budgeted while the expenses came in less that what was budgeted. The board will hear the first reading of Bill #3554 which would amend the annual budget for the city for the fiscal year beginning July 1st, 2023. In the second reading of bills, the board will hear Bill #3553 that would create an ordinance to allow the mayor to execute an agreement between the City of Salem and the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission to aid in the construction of a six unit T-Hanger at the Salem Memorial Airport. After reports from city officials are presented, the board will go into closed session to discuss contracts. The Salem Board of Alderman meeting tonight is open to the public.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways will host a one-day workshop about the basics of fly fishing for youth between the ages of 12 and 16 this Thursday at the Akers Visitor Center. These free workshops are limited to 10 youth participants and at least one parent or guardian for each youth. Reservations are required. Park Ranger Mark Van Patten will lead the workshops and demonstrate various fly rod casting techniques, proper catch and release techniques, and strategies for fly presentation. Instruction will also include lessons on aquatic entomology, recommended equipment, reading the water, and understanding flies. Fly rods and reels will be available for those who do not have their own. The clinics are expected to last the full day. Participants should bring the following: Valid Missouri fishing permit and trout stamp if 16 years or older. A Trout Stamp is required for all ages, if under 16 the cost is $5.00. Waders or something to wear while wading but no open-toed shoes. A hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray, lunch and water. For more information or to make reservation, please contact the Pulltite Ranger Station at (573) 858-3397

The Dent County Health Center (DCHC) Board of Trustees held their regular meeting Thursday, July 17th. The full board was present as were Administrator Zach Moser and Assistant Administrator Roma Jones. Also attending was Carol Lacy who had been appointed to the Board by the Dent County Commission following the resignation of Kim Smith. Lacy was sworn in by Moser. The board then elected to move Dennis Floyd to Vice-Chairman and elect Bob Gravely as Secretary-Treasurer. After approval of the minutes of the June 15th regular meeting of the Board and the Special Meeting of the Board on July 17th with Tiffany Bayer from the Center for Local Public Health at DHSS, Administrator Moser presented the communicable disease report which included no new reported cases of COVID-19 for June. He said there were 32 active lead cases in June and that six sexually transmitted infection screenings were conducted during the month. Moser noted that a total of nine total influenza cases were reported in June. He stated that this is a very unusual number of influenza cases for this time of year. Moser also reported that there were four animal bites reported in June. In the diagnostics report, Moser said 196 blood draw appointments were completed in June, plus 6 COVID tests and five lead tests. There were 13 vaccines for COVID-19 and 99 other vaccinations administered. A total of 422 appointments were held during June, plus WIC appointments that totaled 323. Moser noted in June there were 120 urine drug screenings conducted on behalf of the Dent County Treatment Court. Assistant Administrator Jones gave the environmental report where she conducted seven total inspections, addressed one recall, and fielded seven environmental questions. In the Administrator’s report, Moser noted that no bids were received for a HEPA Filtration System and it was decided to re-published the bid solicitation. Moser reported on some operational problems with the main entrance door to the building and he was approved to obtain bids on replacing it with a power door for better accessibility. Moser reminded the Board of upcoming future Health Center events including vaccines at school registration on August 7th, Back to School Fair August 12th, a Fall Health Fair on October 26th, and a drive-through flu/COVID clinic on October 12th. The health center financial reports for June, including the review from H & R Block, were reviewed. Board member Gravely had a number of questions about the report as there were some inconsistencies with past reports. WIC income was essentially double and that was due to two DHSS payment receipts in June. Another was a huge increase in net revenues for June compared to May and that was due to the Health Disparities (Childcare Grant) that runs in three month cycles. Finally, there were three pay periods in June, which caused increases in the payroll expense. After these questions were addressed Gravely moved to approve the financial reports and the report from H&R Block. The motion was seconded and it carried. Moser presented a new Vacation and Personal Leave Accrual formula since Quickbooks did not accrue vacation time on paid time off which the board approved. Moser discussed a new initiative as a partnership with the local schools to reduce the impact of vaping in teens. The “Strong Student Lungs Program” would refer the students for treatment rather than punishing them. He presented a Comprehensive Tobacco Free Policy for addition to the employee handbook. The policy was approved. Moser shared Bank Signer Resolution 2023-R002 with the Board. Minor adjustments were made and the resolution was approved. A Certificate of Deposit Resolution was presented, which will be reconsidered at the next meeting. As follow-up to last Monday’s meeting with Tiffany Bayer, Gravely discussed the need for a formal review process for the administrator, plus a need for a formal strategic plan or set of objectives for DCHC for comparison to determine progress or lack of it. It was decided that surveys of DCHC patient satisfaction, plus a staff evaluation of the Administrators is to be developed. The next regular meeting of the board was set for Thursday, August 24th at 5:00.

The Pulltite Cabin area will be temporarily closed for visitor safety following major damage from recent severe thunderstorms after a large tree, roughly three feet in diameter, crushed part of the metal roof and buckled the south wall of the cabin. The force of the impact also broke mortar between the logs and caused other structural damage. Park crews are working on a plan to remove the tree safely without causing additional harm to the structure. Following removal, the National Park Service will perform a structural assessment of the building and stabilize it to prevent further deterioration. There is no estimated time frame for completing these steps. Pulltite Cabin is located along the Current River across from Pulltite Campground and can only be reached by hiking the trail from the river. Visitors should stay at least 100 feet away from the cabin but can still use the main hiking trail to view Pulltite Spring. The cabin was built in the unique French style, where vertical logs prevent the need for notching and stacking. In the center of the cabin, an impressive 38-foot log stands. Construction of the cabin was completed in 1913.

As the drought creeps up and across the state, producers are starting to feel the effects. Many pastures are becoming short and hay feeding is crossing the minds of cattle farmers. The program, “Managing Your Herd Through Drought” will be held this Thursday evening at the Wurdack Extension Center in Cook Station from 6:00 to 8:00. Gatlin Bunton, Agronomy Specialist in Crawford County, said that the ongoing drought through much of southern Missouri presents challenges and opportunities for producers. Extension specialists will go through topics that producers should be mindful of during drought situations. Topics include livestock decisions and feeding, forage management and toxins, money considerations and management and planning for future events. In each negative event, there is always a positive. The Farm Service Agency will also be presenting on drought programs that are available to producers. View this drought as a learning opportunity and what can be done to add resilience to your operation. Register for the workshop online at extension.missouri.edu or by calling Crawford County Extension Office at 573-775-2135. There is no fee to attend. If you have questions or need special accommodations, call Rachel Hopkins at 573-438-2671.

The Salem Public Library would like to get the word out about some changes affecting your children’s use of library services. In order for the library to comply with the new Missouri state rule known as “Library Certification Requirement for the Protection of Minors,” parents or legal guardians are required to sign updated paperwork permitting children age 17 and younger to access the public library internet and Wi-Fi. It is also necessary for parents or legal guardians of children in possession of their own juvenile library cards to sign updated paperwork. All previously signed permissions for children will expire on Friday, July 28th, 2023. Please visit the library or call (573) 729-4331 with any questions. The library staff appreciates your patience as we work through the regulation change together.

The Salem and Dent County 4-H and FFA Livestock Auction was held this past Saturday at The Commons that raised an unofficial total of $299,352.30 through bids. Auctioneers Roger Schafer and Brady Hagler auctioned off two pens of market chickens for $2,506, two pens of market rabbits for $434.30, three cured meats brought in $1,025, 19 market goats sold for $23,221, 12 market lambs fetched $24,062.50, 40 market hog sales raised $62,590, the 46 market steers raised $191,163.50 while the seven ribbons added an additional $3,900. There were numerous add-ons to purchases at the sale that totaled $9,550 that raised the total amount collected to $308,902.30. The top ten buyers at the auction this year were the Bank of Salem, Phil-Mart, South Central Regional Stockyards, County Fuels, Town and Country Bank, Interstate Regional Stockyards, Steelman Abstract and Title Company, Gahr Truck and Equipment, Dent County Farm Supply and Chilton Oil Company. There were 78 different businesses, organizations or individuals participating this year in the auction who purchased at least one animal or ribbon to help with the cause, with many buying more than one animal. Also, the dessert auction last Wednesday added an additional $12,660. The Salem FFA Chapter and all the Dent County 4-H Clubs thank everyone who attended the auction this year for their generosity and support.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. Treasurer Denita Williams reported on CART funds received in July. The county received $79,139.93 and that is up year-to-date from last year about 17.87%. The county is up $79,138.20 from last year. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray reported that a crew will be out checking roads for washouts and debris from the storms. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk reported that crews will be out finish cutting county roads 3210, 3220, 3240, 3230; plus crews will be out to seed and straw the property on county road 3230 at the house that had chip and seal wash into his yard. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson stated he attended a Tourism Tax Commission meeting where they had two reimbursements approved and one request denied. The TAP grant application for the 80/20 grant for new sidewalks and handrails for the Courthouse was discussed. A motion was made for Great Rivers Engineering to do a cost analysis for $1,000 of the project which was approved by the commission. County Clerk Angie Curley said the 2023 county tax rate hearing for General Revenue Fund, Road and Bridge fund, Senate Bill 40 Fund and the Salem Senior Citizen Service Fund will be held at 10:00 in the morning on August 21st. According to the unofficial minutes from the last meeting, the Commission then went to look at the buildings across the street and came back. Beth Frizzell with Century 21 came to visit with the Commission. She understands that the Commission inquired about a building that she has a contract listing agreement on. She is upset about a comment that District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk made to the owner about buying it when the contract expires. Gary Polk apologized. Frizzell felt, as a business owner, it was very unprofessional to try to go behind her back to buy it when the contract expires. Frizzell asked Gary Larson and Wes Mobray what they thought about the comment that Gary Polk had made, and they both agreed she was correct in her statements, and that it was unprofessional. The next meeting of the dent County Commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting will be open to the public.

An accident happened Wednesday morning at 7:45 in Franklin County on Interstate 44 eastbound at the 233 mile-marker. According to the highway patrol report, a 2012 Hyundai Sonata being driven by 35-year-old Erin Ellisbyrd of Rolla, hydroplaned on the wet pavement and slid into the center median and struck the cable barrier. Ellisbyrd suffered minor injuries and was taken by St. Clair EMS to Mercy Hospital in Washington. The Sonata was totaled and removed from the scene by Vogelsangs Towing. The report went on to state that Ellisbyrd was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released some reports for the second week of July. On Thursday July 6th deputies responded to the 35000 block of Highway 72 for a reported assault. During the course of the investigation, it was determined that 47-year-old Salem woman and a 41-year-old Salem man allegedly struck one another during an argument. The investigation was complete with neither party wishing to press criminal charges. The next day deputies were on routine patrol when they initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 500 block of Highway ZZ. During the course of the stop, it was discovered that a 36-year-old Jadwin woman and a 47-year-old Jadwin man had active warrants for their arrest. Both parties were taken into custody and transported to the Dent County Jail where they were incarcerated on their warrants. Then on Saturday July 8th a deputy responded to Montauk State Park for a reported theft. During the course of the investigation, it was determined that an unknown suspect(s) broke the window out of a 52-year-old Salem woman’s vehicle and stole her wallet. The report was forwarded to the Park Service for follow-up. Later that same day a female subject entered the DCSO to report a violation of an Ex-Parte Order of Protection. The 28-year-old female advised that her estranged husband, a 39-year-old Rolla man, had been served the order and had violated it by contacting her on numerous occasions. The investigation is ongoing. Lastly on Monday July 10th a deputy was in the 3200 block of S. Highway 19 when he observed a 47-year-old Jadwin man operating a motor vehicle. The Deputy knew the operator’s driving privilege to be revoked. The man was taken into custody and transferred to the Dent County Jail where he was incarcerated. If you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s office at 729-3241.

An accident occurred Tuesday afternoon around 4:10 in Reynolds County on Highway 72 one mile east of Bunker. Accorrding to the highway patrol report a 2019 GMC Terrain driven by 21-year-old Michaela Luedemann of Annapolis, Mo. was travelling eastbound and stopped to make a left hand turn. A 1999 Chevrolet Pickup driven by a 17-year-old male juvenile from Bunker was travelling eastbound and struck the GMC. Luedemann suffered minor injuries and was transported by ambulance to Salem Memorial Hospital. She was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The GMC sustained moderate damage and was towed by Rowdy’s Towing. The Chevrolet sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by owner.

Current River State Park is set to host a kayaking tour from 9:00 to 2:00 Sunday, July 23rd. Bring your lunch and some snacks and join park team members for a leisurely kayaking trip on the Current River. During our journey, there will be multiple stops to enjoy, explore, discover and connect with our natural surroundings. Kayaks and life jackets will be provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own. Participants must be at least 16 years old and minors must be accompanied by an adult. To add to this unique experience, everyone will receive a nature journal starter kit. The float will start at Current River State Park and cover about 4 miles, concluding at Round Spring. This class is limited to 10 people and registration is required. To register or for more information, contact Connie at 573-751-1224 or Connie.Weber@dnr.mo.gov. Current River State Park is located at 11053 County Road 19D in Salem. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

Looking to save money when coming to the Missouri State Fair? Missouri Farmers Care Food Drive $2 Tuesday, August 15th, has some big savings. Bring in two non-perishable food items or give a $2 donation to Feeding Missouri, and pay just $2 gate admission. To add to the $2 fun, most carnival rides will be $2 a ride and select concession and vendors will offer $2 specials all day! Missouri FFA will host their annual Food Insecurity Service Day held in the Assembly Hall, with over 700 FFA members and agriculture leaders serving those in need. Their goal is to reduce childhood food insecurity in Missouri and package 160,000 child-friendly meals that will be distributed among food banks across our state. The Agriculture Building is a great place to learn more about food insecurity. There will be a canned food educational display constructed of approximately 3,000 cans of food donated by Woods Supermarket. All cans used in the display will be added to the food drive collection and head to local food banks after the Fair concludes. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, August 15th, and help support a worthy cause while saving big bucks on $2 Tuesday. Come see “Where Traditions Grow,” Aug. 10th through 20th in Sedalia at the 2023 Missouri State Fair!

The judging at the 4-H and FFA Expo Friday afternoon kicked off at 1:00 with the Small Animal Show judged by Wally Buttrum. The Champion Market Meat Chicken Pen was exhibited by Isabel Thomas and the Reserve Champion Pen was shown by Abigail Thomas. Intermediate Junior Showmanship went to Baylee Parks and Hank Phelps won the Junior Division. In the Market Meat Rabbit Pen Division Hank Phelps exhibited the Champions, while Cooper Case showed the Reserve Champions. There were 21 breeding rabbits exhibited with class winners being Jenna Murr, Emily Miller and Cooper Case. Both Grand Champion Doe and Reserve Champion Doe went to Jenna Murr, while Cooper Case took home the Grand Champion Buck and Murr had the Reserve Champion Buck. The Showmanship competition consisted of all Intermediate Contestants and the winner was Emily Miller. The Livestock Shows at the 4-H and FFA Expo culminated in the Cattle Show Friday afternoon and evening. Breeding class winners were Bryce Mobray, Kohen Garrison, Preslie Strader, Levi Gillam, Ray Cunningham, Isabell Mutz and Liam Flowers. Champion Hereford Heifer went to Flowers and Gillam won Reserve Champion. Bryce Mobray’s Angus Heifer was selected as Angus Champion and Overall Grand Champion Heifer, while Ray Cunningham’s Angus Heifer was Angus Reserve Champion and Overall Reserve Grand Champion Female. Bucket Calf exhibitors were Cutter Brown and Jade Clancy. Participants in the non-competitive Pee-Wee Clinic were Lynlee Easter, Hadlee Tilley and Emeri Yates. The Market Steer show saw Judge Addie Theesen (Tayson) evaluate 46 steers and select class winners exhibited by Ross Dunlap, Anna Cato, John Cunningham, Brantley Thompson, Bryce Coates, Kallen Garrison, and Kash Howard. The Championship went to Kallen Garrison’s 1365-pound Charolais Cross steer with Kash Howard’s 1510-pound Angus Cross steer being selected as Reserve Champion. Eight Juniors, 17 Intermediates and 4 Seniors competed in the Beef Showmanship competition. In the Junior Division Quinntin Cooper won the award, while the Intermediate Division winner was Bryce Mobray and the Senior Division was won by Ray Cunningham.

The Missouri Department of Transportation is seeking individuals who are interested in a career to “come for the snow, stay for the mow” and keep Missouri moving during the winter season and beyond. MoDOT is currently hiring maintenance personnel for winter operations, with opportunities for year-round employment including mowing, striping and other maintenance functions. The department currently has hundreds of full-time and emergency maintenance positions available across the state. Maintenance worker position salaries begin at $19.08 per hour, depending on level of experience and area of operation, and is also eligible for an additional $3 to $6 per hour when working winter and emergency operations. MoDOT State Maintenance Director Natalie Roark said that these positions are critical to Missouri travelers once the snow starts to fall, but also include critical work to maintain our highway system throughout the year. If you’re a dedicated, hard-working individual looking for a job with excellent benefits where you can make a difference, there’s no better time to apply than right now.Career opportunity job postings can be found online at modot.org/careers. In addition, MoDOT is hosting hiring events across the state from late July through the month of August. These events will provide applicants an opportunity for an accelerated hiring process, including on-site interviews and potential job offers; followed by initiating criminal background checks, drug testing and work simulation physicals. Offers made could result in new employees starting within a week. For details on these events, and to learn more about these career opportunities, visit modot.org/opportunities-maintenance. Full-time maintenance employees receive training and a long list of benefits including paid leave, medical, vision and dental insurance, a retirement plan, and a culturally diverse workplace that is dedicated to safety and personal development. Applicants need to be at least 18 years old and successfully complete a criminal background check (a misdemeanor or felony conviction is not an automatic restriction to employment). It’s preferable for applicants to have a CDL permit, but assistance and training is available to help new employees achieve their CDL. For more information, call MoDOT at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org.

An accident happened early Tuesday morning at 1:15 in Texas County on Highway 63 about three and half miles north of Houston. According to the highway patrol report a 2008 Chevrolet Aveo being driven north by 19 year old Gabrielle Lewis of Cabool traveled off the right side of the road. Lewis then overcorrected, traveled off the left side of the roadway and overturned several times. Lewis, who was not wearing a seat restraint, suffered serious injuries and was taken by air ambulance to Cox South in Springfield. The Aveo was totaled and removed from the scene by Jay’s Towing.

The Salem Police Department have released reports from the first week of July from the calls received and traffic stops. On Monday night, July 3rd, at approximately 8:00 officers contacted and arrested 25-year-old Phylicia Tinker for an active warrant for her arrest. Tinker had no bond and was incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. The next morning at approximately 10:00 officers were dispatched to the City Park for a report of vandalism. It was reported that in the overnight hours subjects damaged and defaced park property. Video surveillance was obtained of the suspects and this incident is still under investigation. Then Thursday afternoon, July 6th, at approximately 5:00 officers were dispatched to Walmart for a report of a trespasser due to prior shoplifting. Contact was made with the 39-year-old Salem female and she was issued summons to appear in court and reminded not to be on Wal Mart property. At approximately 11:00 in the evening on Friday, July 7th, officers were dispatched to the 400 block of East Hunt for a report of a domestic disturbance. Once on scene officers were informed that a male subject was highly intoxicated and assaulting subjects at the residence. As a result a 44-year-old Salem male was arrested for disorderly conduct and placed on a 12-hour safekeep due to his level of intoxication. That same night at about midnight officers conducted a traffic stop for a vehicle failing to stop at a stop sign. During the traffic stop the officer observed signs of impairment from the driver. An investigation into Driving While Intoxicated was conducted. As a result of the investigation a 29-year-old Salem male was arrested for DWI. If you have any information about any ongoing investigation please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242.

A Special Meeting of the City of Salem Board of Aldermen will be Tuesday at 6:00 in the City Hall Council Chambers at 202 North Washington. After the call to order and roll call, an Open Public Hearing on Floodplain Management will be heard. Interested parties may comment and will be limited to three to five minutes. There will be then be a second reading of Bill #3551 which relates to adoption of floodplain management regulations. The Special Meeting of the Board of Aldermen was called by Mayor Greg Parker.

The Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors meeting for Tuesday night has been postponed and will be rescheduled at a later date.

The University of Missouri Extension is holding a class for the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification exam. ServSafe training and certification is the most widely recognized food safety certification in all jurisdictions. The class will be held Tuesday, July 25th and Wednesday, July 26th in Rolla from 9:00 in the monring until 1:30 in the afternoon at 105 Fairgrounds Road at the Missouri Department of Mental Health Rolla Regional office. The cost is $125 to attend and includes the purchase of the ServSafe Food Manager Course book and exam. The class includes two days of lecture followed with an exam. Both days must be attended. All registered participants will receive a course book and exam. Please contact instructor Cece Kimmel for further course content questions: 573-458-6256; or call the Phelps County Extension Office at 573-458-6260.

The Missouri Department of Transportation has approved the proposed 2024-2028 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). Projects in the STIP for Dent County include a scoping engineering project on Route TT for bridge improvements over Crooked Creek in the next two years, the bridge replacement on Highway 19 South over Gladden Creek at an expected cost of $1,827,000 in the 2024 fiscal year, pavement improvements to Route K from Highway 19 to Route KK as well as on Route J from Highway 72 to Highway 32-72 at a cost of $2,071,000 in fiscal year 2025, upgrades to pedestrian facilities on Highway 32 to comply with the ADA Transition Plan at a total cost of $1,991,000 that will begin in fiscal year 2025 with the engineering and right-of-way purchase followed by the construction beginning in fiscal year 2026; the bridge improvement on Route B over Dry Creek at a cost of $1,330,000 in the 2026 fiscal year, and the bridge improvement on Highway 19 over Spring Creek for $231,000 in fiscal year 2027. The STIP program is available on MoDOT’s website: www.modot.org.

A lucky Missouri Lottery player got a little extra bang for his buck when his Mega Millions ticket won a $1 million prize in the July 4 drawing by matching all five white-ball numbers drawn. He purchased the winning ticket at Casey’s, 800 E. Scenic Rivers Blvd. in Salem. Mega Millions is a multi-state game that is drawn on Tuesdays and Fridays. In Fiscal Year 2022, players in Dent County won more than $3 million in Missouri Lottery prizes, retailers received more than $301,000 in commissions and bonuses, and more than $208,000 in Lottery proceeds went to education programs in the county.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. At the meeting, Tad Headrick talked to the commission about a concern that had spread on social media that after the governor appointed Gary Polk as the District 2 Commissioner, his road received immediate attention. Headrick wanted to bring this to the attention of the commission to address the rumors and chatter. Both Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson and District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray stated the road he lives on simply came up on the county road rotation for maintenance and no special treatment was given. Headrick also asked if it was possible for the commission to do some gravel work around the Anutt Community Church where he said the there are a lot of ditches around the road that make it difficult for the elderly to use the church. Commissioner Polk said he would try to get someone out there today to take a look. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams gave the sales tax report for the monies received in July. She said the General Revenue Fund and LEST Fund each received $89,128.26 which is $3,702.06 less than for July of 2022. Year-to-date, the GR and LEST funds are down $4,103.93. The Road and Bridge Fund received $41,921.42 in July which is down 2,080.61 from July of 2022. Year-to-date, that fund is down $1,551.80. The Jail Operating and Trust funds each received $84,264.63 and that is down $3,705.64 from July 2022 receipts. Year-to-date, that fund is down $115.38 These figures are all net of the monthly withholding by the Department of Revenue. Brian Williams from McCoy Construction and Forestry in Cuba was in to update the commission on the status of their new graders and they are still scheduled to be delivered to McCoy on September 22nd and the commission should have the graders the last week of September. In the road report, Mobray said work crews would be out checking roads from the storms Thursday morning. They also will be working on a brush cutter that shorted out on the road and they will be changing some fuses as recommended by company repair person who has not yet been to Dent County. They hope that will correct the problem. District commissioner Polk said grading was done on Dent County Road 3090 and grading on county road 3120 will be completed. He said stockpiling of rock continues at the county shed and Polk said materials would be added and patch grading done on county road 4260. Polk also said culverts would be installed on county road 3165 and crews will be checking for washouts. Presiding Commission Gary Larson said the county, in accordance with the Secure Rural Schools Act, would put $80,000 into Title I Funds and $20,000 into Title III Funds. Larson was also invited to the Missouri State Fair by Senator Josh Hawley in August. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said she balanced with the assessor and collector on all abatements, add-ons and collections for the month of June. She also said she balanced with the treasurer on all accounts for the month of June. Curley brought to the commission Dent County Resolution #1 that comes from the Missouri Ethics Commission that establishes a procedure for certain elected officials to disclose any possible conflict of interest or substantial interests they may have with them holding office. The county clerk, presiding commissioner, prosecuting attorney and judges must file these forms every two years. 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.

An accident happened Wednesday morning in Dent County at 11:30 on County Road 2400 five miles west of Salem. According to the highway patrol report, a 2012 Suzuki 400 being operated by 17 year old male juvenile of Albuquerque, New Mexico was traveling north when he entered a curve. The bike then traveled off the left side of road, overturned, and struck a barbed wire fence. The teen suffered serious injuries and was taken by Salem Memorial ambulance to Air Evac. The Suzuki sustained minor damage and was secured at the roadside. The report went on to state that the operator was not any wearing safety equipment.

The Creative Arts Center will be holding a two-day book binding workshop where you can learn to make your own journal. The workshop will be held Monday, July 17th and Tuesday, July 18th from 1:00 until 3:00 in the afternoon with Alexandra ‘Lexie” Mutch. Participants will be tearing down paper, cutting and gluing covers unique to their tastes, then sewing a strong and lovely binding for their own blank book. The cost is $30 per person for those 12 years of age and above and all supplies are provided. Sign up at the salemcommunitybetterment.com website under “Programs” for the Creative Arts Center. A minimum of three people will need to sign up to hold the class and it will be limited to no more than 12.

Residents of the City of Salem can place their limbs and branches blows down in the recent storms at the curbside next week for pickup. The city will be picking up the debris starting Monday, July 17th and continuing through Friday, July 21st. Please bundle your twigs and sticks together to make it easier on the guys picking up the limbs, twigs and sticks. There will be no charge for this service.