Local News

Congratulations to the players and coaches of the Bunker Eagles Boys Basketball team as Saturday they captured the Missouri State High School Activities Association Class 1 State Championship for the first time in school history with a 61 to 54 win over Brunswick at the Mizzou Arena in Columbia at the MSHSAA Show-Me Showdown. Read the entire story under Sports!

The Salem R-80 Board of Education held their regular meeting Thursday at 5:30 in the administration building located at 1409 West Rolla Road. After the call to order, the board approved the agenda and consent agenda. The board recognize several Pre-Kindergarten students from William Lynch Elementary, who lead the meeting through the Pledge of Allegiance. Under communications, Superintendent Nathan Wills shared communication from Heather Whitlock and announced Lion King Jr. was in production at the Upper Elementary. He further shared a letter from District 120 Representative John Hewkin thanking the board for its service, in light of School Board Appreciation Week. The Upper Elementary roof is complete, reported Wills in his Superintendent’s Report, aside from holes revealed during the recent heavy rains that contractors will be returning to fix, along with another leak within the awning connecting the Upper Elementary and the FEMA building. Wills updated the board on the Safe Room Operations Plan for the FEMA building, which he will be discussing with the Dent County Emergency Management Director Derrick Marfitt in order to finalize procedures by next week. Mailers will be sent out to those within a half-mile radius of the building. Wills is working on the budget for 2026-27. He provided legislative updates, including a bill that may impact open enrollment, among other items that may impact school funding. An executive order was signed by Governor Mike Kehoe requiring school districts to have an A through F report card, which will not be tied to the APR score, Wills further updated. Parent surveys were conducted with results presented to the board, with several parents seeking better communication on academics and attendance from staff. Student surveys are currently being conducted and will close next Friday. Laura Hurt has accepted the Mosis/Core Data and Food Service Director position offered, which she will begin in June. During Administration Reports, High School Principal Jodi Heavin reported that staff are working on an automated service coming this Monday which would notify parents when students miss assignments. Under New Business, the board approved the MOU with Missouri S&T, which enables the placement of student teachers within the district, along with an authorization for the administration to approve and process payment of all district bills, due to moving the board meeting’s date. The board also approved summer school dates for May 18th through June 5th, the annual career ladder plan, and the annual Apptegy contract. Finally, the board approved the Show-Me Technology Service Contract, which provides more bandwidth to the district, and extending the special education director’s salary schedule to 205 days. The board held a discussion on vaping policies, agreeing that School Resource Officer Lawrence Rictor should be able to write a probable cause statement and refer to juvenile for a student’s second offense. The board then entered  executive session to discuss personnel and student issues, followed by adjournment after returning to open session. The next meeting of the Salem R-80 School Board of Education is scheduled for April 16th in the Administration Building and will be open to the public.

Explore the newly launched interactive city project map provided by the City of Salem found on salemmo.com, clicking “City,” and searching “Plans and Projects Page.” Through the interactive map, residents are able to see where infrastructure projects like water system upgrades and street improvements are happening across town.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse. First District Commissioner Keith Green reported that crew members would be out checking roads and assisting the second district with its workload. Second District Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported crew members would be out grading and hauling rock to County Road 2540. Hauling rock is also planned for county roads 3190 and 3140. Patching is planned for County Road 3200. Crew members will also be checking a low water crossing installed by a resident, which is causing washouts. Meanwhile, Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported that bills were approved. Curley further reported excused absentee voting continues, and March 24th is the first day for “no excuse absentee” voting which will continue through April 6th. From 8:00 in the morning until 12:00 noon Saturday, April 4th, the courthouse will be open for absentee voting in the county clerk’s office. On April 7th, voting will be open from 6:00 in the morning to 7:00 in the evening. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson reported that he would be attending an MRPC meeting in St. James this evening, and that the commissioners and Curley would be attending a South Central County Commissioner Association meeting in Texas County on Friday. The Cooperative Feral Hog Outreach Educator of Dent County’s MU Extension provided a feral hog report for 2026, sharing that there has been an 83% decrease in watershed occupancy by feral hogs since 2016. In 2025, there were 242 feral hogs removed from Dent County, ranking fifth in the state. Crider reported that feral hogs are more often observed in the south and eastern portions of the county. Further, the USDA is condensing the program and its positions due to its success. Funding remains for the program through 2031. Curt Faigle, representative of 100 Acre Wood Rally, visited the commission about the event this weekend. Dent County Collector Shannon Vankirk reported February totals, of which was $651,033.10. The next meeting of the Commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 in the Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The City of Salem Parks and Recreation Board held a meeting Wednesday evening at the Old City Hall Auditorium located at 202 N. Washington Street. After roll call and approving the agenda, Parks and Recreation Director Melissa DuBois presented bids for replacing the ence surrounding Billy’s Playground, due to the damages resulting from a flood event. Two bids from fence contractors were received, including DNK Fencing and J&M Construction and Fencing LLC. DuBois recommended moving forward with DNK Fencing at $10,500. Funds would come out of the prior year fund balances, currently at $636,948. Funds expended for the fencing would be sent to FEMA for consideration for mitigation reimbursement. After discussion, the board approved the budget adjustment and fencing bed from DNK Fencing. In addition, the board approved recommending to the Board of Aldermen the placement of James Taylor to the Parks and Recreation board. The board then adjourned. 

The City of Salem is seeking dedicated volunteers to serve on advisory committees. Serving on advisory committees presents opportunities to make an impact and help guide decisions that shape the city. The mayor is currently looking for individuals to fill committee seats. The city is specifically in need of individuals interested in serving on the Utility Advisory Committee and the Planning & Zoning Commission. To apply, visit salemmo.com, click on “City”, and search “Committees” to find the committee sign-up form.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen held its regular meeting Tuesday evening in the auditorium at 202 North Washington Street. After approving the agenda and consent agenda, the board approved the recommendation of Sue Hubbs to the Salem Housing Authority Board of Commissioners to fill a four-year unexpired term, ending July 24th, 2026. In new and miscellaneous business, the board approved filing the grant application to MoDOT for construction of one to three box hangars for the Salem Memorial Airport, approved by the Airport Board as part of its Capital Improvement Plan back in October. The total project cost would be $1.4 million with a city match of 10% or $140,000. The federal funding provided would be $1.2 million, or 90% of the project costs. As for bids, the board approved a bid from Midstate Pipeline for $159,700 for elevating the Wastewater Treatment Plant’s electric control panels six feet above the November 2024 flood levels. The amount is an unplanned expense with expectations of FEMA covering 75%. The city portion would then come to $39,925, which would come out of prior year fund balances. Other bids approved included several utility poles from Huxford Pole and Timber at a total of $17,400, to come out of the electric department pole fund, along with a bid of $10,044.17 from Agri-Enterprises to repair the valve of the tree trimming truck, to come out of the electric department equipment fund. During reports from city officials, City Administrator Sally Burbridge reported that staff have received proposals from seven companies for updating the city’s Incode software. In addition, the engineering contract is expected to be presented at the next board meeting, while the water tower maintenance contract will be reviewed by Burbridge and City Attorney James Weber and the utility committee before also being presented to the board at a future meeting. Burbridge further reported that a request for bids will be resubmitted for plaster work within city hall. Mayor Greg Parker congratulated and thanked the water department team for being awarded the “2025 Water System of the Year” from the Missouri Rural Water Association and provided the team with a mayoral proclamation. Water Superintendent Chris McGuirt further commended not only his team on their hard work in earning the recognition, but the city staff and administration who were part of the process forreceiving the award. Meanwhile, the board received the financial report from Finance Director Stacey Houston, who reported that the total sales tax revenues collected for fiscal year 2026 is approximately $3.3 million, including the general fund, parks and recreation fund, and capital improvement fund; this is an increase of approximately 2.7%. Houston further reported on utility usage and revenue. The ending total of all funds is approximately $17 million, with the city having brought in 58% of its budgeted amount and having spent 50% of its budgeted amount. Both amounts were noted by Houston as being less than anticipated, credited to grant revenues and expenses coming in lower than anticipated. Public Works Director Steve Paine reported that construction has begun on the t-ball parking lot. With no further reports, the board entered executive session for attorney client privilege. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Aldermen will be held March 24th and will be open to the public. 

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors met Tuesday, March 10th at the firehouse for its regular monthly meeting. After previous board meeting minutes were approved, the financial reports as well as the bills, payments, statements, budget and reconciliation were also reviewed and approved. Under old business, the board discussed the Fidelity Tower, of which is experiencing interference that Assistant Chief Derrick Marfitt was asked by the board to investigate. After final reading, the proposed purchasing, disposal, and spending policy was accepted as presented. Fire Chief Derek Thomas presented the monthly reimbursement report that showed the fire district responded to 28 calls in February and a total of 61 calls for the year. Chief Thomas further reported that 8020 is back in service with a new alternator. Meanwhile, bids for new structural gear were presented from Sentinel, Banner, and Hoff Comp. The bids were not comparable as one company was dual compliance and one was not. After discussion, it was approved to buy five complete sets of gear, with an additional 18 helmets and three sets of boots, from Banner for a total cost of $31,674.00, in order to comply with safety codes and be in compliance with NFPA. The next board meeting was then set for April 14th at 6:00 in the evening at the Dent County Fire Protection District firehouse. Following the closed session, the meeting was adjourned.

The Salem Community Center @ the Armory will be holding an Alpha-Gal Syndrome Awareness Program in the evening of April 2nd from 5:30 to 6:30, presented by MU Extension’s Nutrition & Health Specialist Maria Calvert. Alpha-gal syndrome is on the rise in Missouri, and many people don’t realize they may be at risk or have it. Attend an informative session to learn what alpha-gal syndrome is, common symptoms, how screening works, and how to prevent tick bites that can lead to this condition. The cost to attend is $5. Call 573-729-8163 to register.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will be holding its regular monthly meeting 5:30 in the afternoon today in the board room located at the Administration Office on J Highway. After the Call to Order and the Pledge of Allegiance, the board will approve the agenda and consent agenda. The board will hear communications from Heather Whitlock. The William Lynch Elementary’s Pre-Kindergarten program will be receiving recognition. Under the Superintendent’s Report, CSIP Goals will be addressed. Administration reports will be heard from William Lynch, Upper Elementary, Middle School, and High School administration. Athletics and Activities, Special Education, Technology, Maintenance, and Transportation reports will be received by the board in writing. Under new business, the board will be: approving a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Missouri S&T, holding a discussion regarding vaping products, approving summer school dates of May 18th through June 5th, approving a career ladder plan, approving Apptegy contract, and approving a Show-Me Technologies service contract. Also under new business will be the authorization for the administration to approve and process payment of all district bills that are received or become due after the meeting and before the next regularly scheduled board meeting. All such payments will be included in the list of bills presented to the board for ratification at the next meeting. A hire of Angel Hunter, ECSE personal aide, is scheduled for consideration. The board will enter closed session to discuss personnel and student issues, followed by adjournment after returning to open session. The regular meeting of the Salem R-80 Board of Education is open to the public.

The City of Salem Parks and Recreation Board will meet this evening at 5:00 in the Old City Hall Auditorium located on 202 N. Washington. The board is meeting to vote on approving the budget adjustment for the Fence Bid, and voting on recommending James Taylor to be appointed to the Parks Board. This meeting is open to the public.

Salem R-80 High School had several students place as finalists for the Youth Tour, sponsored by Missouri electric cooperatives including Intercounty Electric. The student finalists who submitted a 250-500 word essay with the essay topic of, “The hardest lesson I’ve learned so far,” were Carlnez Head, Ivan Brooks, Jhonine Maralit, and Emma Purcell. On March 25th, these students will interview before a panel of volunteer judges to hopefully earn a trip to Washington, D.C. this summer. Two runners up from each school will earn a spot on the Cooperative Youth Conference and Leadership Experience (CYCLE) trip to Jefferson City, and one student from each school will be named as the alternate-ready to jump in, should any student be unable to attend their trip.

Officials urge Missourians to remain alert as another surge in phishing texts has been reported. These texts are often threatening and falsely claim to be from a trusted source, such as the Missouri Department of Revenue, MoDOT, the Department of Motor Vehicles, or the DMV. These text messages may include a warning regarding unpaid traffic violations, outstanding toll charges, or other fines owed. If you receive texts posing as the aforementioned entities threatening you to pay now, it’s a scam. Other common tactics include: asking you to verify purchases, claiming issues with your payment information, offering prizes or gift cards, sending fake package delivery notifications, and warning you of suspicious activity on one of your accounts. If you receive one of these phishing texts, take the following action: Do not click on links or scan QR codes; Do not provide personal information such as passwords; Do not respond to the text; Delete the text. If you have been scammed or think you may have been contacted by a scammer, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. For more information on how to protect yourself and your neighbors, visit consumer.ftc.gov.

MoDOT is hosting a virtual public meeting now through April 3rd to gather public feedback on updates to the draft versions of the Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) and State Freight and Rail Plan (SFRP). These plans will help determine the state’s 25-year transportation vision. Participants may review the draft plans and provide comments by visiting modot.org and searching “Long-Range Transportation Plan and State Freight and Rail Plan Updates.” Both plans have been shaped over the last year by extensive outreach and input with stakeholders and the public, according to a MoDOT press release. These plans serve as roadmaps for the state’s transportation network, addressing the evolving infrastructure needs and setting funding priorities. Draft documents for both plans are available for public comment as part of the virtual public meeting through April 3rd. Those without internet access are encouraged to call 573-751-6550 between the hours of 8 in the morning and 5 in the afternoon, Monday through Friday, to access information and ask questions during the development process. The final plans will be presented to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for review and consideration later in 2026. More information about LRTP and SFRP plan updates can be found on MoDOT’s website at modot.org.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will meet this evening at 6:00 at 202 N. Washington in the Old City Hall Auditorium. After the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call and approval of the agenda and consent agenda, the board will hear any scheduled public comments. The board will be considering a committee appointment of Sue Hubbs to the Salem Housing Authority to fill an unexpired term. Under new and miscellaneous business, the board will hear a resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Missouri Department of Transportation Aviation Section for airport improvements at the Salem Memorial Airport (K33.) The board will be hearing and approving bids for control panel improvements, utility poles, and a tree trimming truck repair. City officials will then report followed by a closed session. The meeting of the City of Salem Board of Alderman is open to the public.

The Dent County Commission met in regular session Monday morning at the courthouse. Both First District Commissioner Keith Green and Second District Commissioner Jimmy Williams shared that road crew members are out patching what they can on the washouts, with Williams sharing that his district crew members will also be attempting to unstop several pipes and culverts. Both encouraged patience within residents as the heavy rains have impacted roads with more forecasted Tuesday, delaying their ability to lay down more rock. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported that payroll was approved. Curley further reported the voting registration deadline for the April 7th Municipal Election is Wednesday and encouraged those needing to make address changes to do so as soon as possible. Excused absentee voting continues, and March 24th is the first day for “no excuse absentee” voting which will continue through April 6th. From 8:00 in the morning until 12:00 noon Saturday, April 4th, the courthouse will be open for absentee voting in the county clerk’s office. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams reported on sales tax receipts received for March, stating that General Revenue and Law Enforcement received $94,228.39. Year-to-date those funds are $15,505.73 over the total collected through March 2025, a 6.6% increase. The Road and Bridge Fund received $47,114.16, and year-to-date those funds are $15,505.73 over the total collected through March 2025. That is about an 11.9% increase. Williams reported both Jail Funds received $94,648.80, and year-to-date those funds are each up $30,958.42, an increase of 11.8%. The next meeting of the commission will be Thursday morning at the courthouse, and the meeting will be open to the public.

According to a petition filed March 5th in the Circuit Court for Shannon County, plaintiffs including Thomas Appell; Seamus James Fuller; Jack Norris, Lonnie Norris, James Norris, and Lisa Norris; and other unknown persons living or owning property along State Route YY have brought a lawsuit against Royal Oak Enterprises, LLC. The petition alleges that since approximately 2022, dangerous and toxic material from the charcoal plant have interfered with not only the plaintiffs’ use and possession of their property, but also the enjoyment of their property. The charcoal plant affected machinery and plant life as well as the personal health and wellness of the plaintiffs, it was further alleged. Plaintiffs made claims for negligence, trespass, and private & public nuisance against Royal Oak. The plaintiffs seek damages greater than $25,000. As of Monday, March 9th, a summons has been issued to Royal Oak Enterprises, LLC, according to a newly filed docket entry on file on courts.mo.gov/casenet.

The 100 Acre Wood Rally is returning to Dent, Crawford, and Washington counties at the end of this week. In Dent County, look forward to the 4th Street Parc Expose’ and Welcome this Saturday from 9 to 11 in the morning. Throughout the day, find locations to spectate through the Spectator Guide found online at rally.100aw.org/spectating. Most spectator locations are free of charge and no tickets are needed. If you would like to meet this year’s drivers while they’re in Salem and view the high performance machines they’ll be driving, you can do so Saturday morning on 4th Street. Drivers and their vehicles will line 4th Street until their departure to the first stage. This is a rare opportunity to meet world class, regional, and local rally sport drivers in one of the Ozark’s premiere motorsport events. In the evening Saturday, come down to the Dent County Commons for both the regional and national award ceremony from 8:15 to 10.

Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District (ORSWMD) is now seeking submissions for the 35th Annual Earth Day Trash Art, Poster and Graphic Art contest. The competition is open to all students in grades kindergarten through 12th in Dent, Crawford, Gasconade, Maries, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties. Homeschool students meeting these criteria are eligible and encouraged to participate. The graphic art portion of the contest is also open to post-secondary students. The theme for this year’s art contest is “Be a Food Waste Warrior” to increase awareness of food waste. Students have the opportunity to participate in multiple contest categories, including posters (hand-drawn and graphic arts), and re-purposing recyclables and trash into three-dimensional pieces of trash art. Posters should echo the theme of reducing food waste, a top priority in the district. The trash art contest may follow the underlying solid waste management theme to reduce, reuse, repurpose and recycle. Entries for all categories will be accepted from now through March 19th and may be dropped off at the county clerk offices at the nearest courthouse. For more information, visit ozarkrivers.org/programs-and-services/earth-day.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse. With the onset of rain throughout the county, First District Commissioner Keith Green reported crew members have been out fixing damages to county roads caused by the excessive rain Wednesday night. Green encouraged the public to be patient. With the second district being hit harder, District Two Commissioner Jimmy Williams was not in attendance until later that morning, as he was out assisting crew members. Meanwhile, Green reported on phone bids for 2,500 gallons of unleaded fuel for the road department, commenting that the bids received had more variation than usual. Bids were as follows: $2.38 from MFA Oil; $2.60 from County Fuels; and Phil-Mart did not bid. The bid was given to MFA Oil. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson reported that an estimate for repairs to the Annex Roof for leaks was received, submitted by Hope Construction in the amount of $1,250, and it was approved. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported that March 11th is the deadline to register to vote for the April 7th Municipal Election. Excused absentee voting continues, and March 24th is the first day for “no excuse absentee” voting which will continue through April 6th. From 8:00 in the morning until 12:00 noon Saturday, April 4th, the courthouse will be open for absentee voting in the county clerk’s office. Curley further reported that she has balanced with the collector and assessor for all monthly collections, add-ons, and abatements for February. Bills were approved. In addition, commissioners opened bids for surplus property for the road department with the following receiving the bids: Travis Turner bid $409.98 for two chainsaws; Larry Lundy bid $200 for two chainsaws; and Danny Wethy, Jr. bid $76.50 for the HYD Engine Hoist. The commissioners rejected all bids for the Pup Trailer. The commission also opened bids for a used truck and received the following quotes: $52,203 for a 2022 International CV; $84,500 for a 2023 Ford Flatbed Truck F750; $75,500 for 2019 Ford Dump Truck F750; $89,995 for a 2023 Ford Dump Truck Flatbed F650; and $55,600 for a 2022 International Dump Truck CV. After a discussion of comparisons, the commission unanimously agreed to accept the 2022 International D/T CV at $55,600. Assessor Alisa Brookshire and Joel Zitterich of VanGuard attended to discuss the software appraisal system. Brookshire is currently utilizing Clearbasin software, of which she reported issues. The software system would have to be bid out but after five years, if awarded to VanGuard, the Assessor’s Office would own it. The commission requested Brookshire to receive prices on the separate map maintenance software, as well as to look into what Clearbasin will charge on turning over the files. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday morning at the courthouse at 9:00. The meeting is open to the public.

Dent County Route B is now closed at the Dry Creek Bridge after inspectors found a sinkhole developing near one of the supporting structures of the 86-year-old bridge, which is scheduled to be replaced this year. Route B will remain closed over Dry Creek until that project is completed, as it is no longer safe for vehicular traffic. Concrete barriers have been placed at either end of the bridge to prevent motorists from utilizing the damaged roadway. During the closure and bridge replacement project, motorists may use Missouri Routes 19, 32 and 72 as a detour route. To learn more about the planned bridge replacement project, visit modot.org and search “Route B Bridge Replacement over Dry Creek in Dent County.”

The National Weather Service of Springfield issued a hazardous weather outlook, indicating that thunderstorms are expected to form Friday afternoon and continue through overnight hours. The severe storms will be capable of producing hazards including large hail, damaging wind gusts up to 70 miles per hour, and possble tornadoes. There are two rounds of storms expected Friday afternoon and evening. Early indications suggest supercell thunderstorms in the afternoon into evening, before merging into a squall line by Friday night. The greatest large hail and tornado risk will be west of Highway 65 with the supercells Friday afternoon/evening. Damaging winds then become the primary risk with an embedded tornado risk with the squall line across the entire area late Friday evening and night. The probability of severe hail is 15-29% within Dent County; severe wind, 15-29%; and tornados, 2-4%. Remember that if a forecast calls for severe weather: Start preparing now by ensuring you have emergency supplies, knowing a safe place to hunker down, and having a family communication plan. Remember to have plenty of gas in your vehicle and extra batteries, matches, propane, charcoal and firewood. Other tips include having a portable, battery-powered radio and alarm clock, a non-portable phone that will work even if power is interrupted, and coordinating with neighbors for care of the elderly and disabled living alone. For more information on staying safe in severe weather, visit intercountyenergy.net/safety-education. Also remember that to report power outages within the City of Salem, save the phone number 833-703-4811 to your phone as “Salem Power Outage.” Text or call the number when an outage occurs. When outages are reported, they will populate the map found on website hometowngrid.com/salem. 

The Bunker Police Department has released its activity report for the month of February. Officers conducted 47 traffic stops during the month and assisted the county on five calls. Police responded to five 911 hang-up calls. The department handled three dog-related calls, one investigation, and five general calls for service. Officers responded to four domestic-related calls and made one arrest during the month. The department also executed one search warrant. The Bunker Police Department encourages residents to continue reporting suspicious activity and working alongside officers to maintain a safe community.

Join the Dent County Historical Society for a special Fireside Chat with longtime Dent County resident Jim Glenn on Saturday, March 7th at 10:00 in the morning at the James Family Center at 103 W. Center Street in Salem. Jim will share stories of growing up in the New Hope Community to the early bluegrass roots of the Dillard family. Learn about the historic Cumberland Presbyterian Church, the old rural schools, and the close-knit families who shaped this musical community. For more information, contact Deloris Gray Wood at 573-729-2545. Come experience local history brought to life! 

Preschool Registration will be held Wednesday, March 12th, from 8:30 until 5:00 and Thursday, from 8:30 until 2:30 at William Lynch Elementary. Preschool students must be 4 years of age by July 31st. Appointments are to be made by calling 573-729-6611 and are not a guarantee of placement. Proof of residence, shot records, and birth certificate is required.

According to a press release from the South Central Missouri Computer Crime Task Force, on March 3rd, 2026, Edward Lee Lane, age 59, of Salem was arrested in the 800 block of East Ellis Street for possession of child pornography and failure to register as a sex offender. Lane was incarcerated at the Dent County Jail, pending warrants. Filed by the Dent County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office March 4th were 20 counts of Possession of Child Pornography (Class B Felony) and four counts of Failure to Register As A Sex Offender. The investigation of Lane was initiated as a result of a Cyber Tipline Report by an electronic service provider. During the investigation, information was developed that Lane is a convicted sex offender, and currently on parole with Missouri Department Of Corrections. Assisting the South-Central Missouri Computer Crimes Task Force were Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, Dent County Sheriff’s Office, and Salem Police Department. The charges which Lane has been arrested are merely accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before the court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

The City of Salem Water Department was awarded “2025 Water System of the Year” on Tuesday, March 3rd, at the Missouri Rural Water Association’s conference in Branson. Representing the city to accept the award were Steve Paine, public works director; Chris McGuirt, water and wastewater superintendent; and Sally Burbridge, city administrator. Also at the conference, McGuirt was recognized for his 30 years of service. 

The Dent County Fire Protection District (DCFPD) recognized Sarah Montoya on her successful completion of the national registry of emergency medical technicians’ certification. Montoya has dedicated months studying and preparing for the milestone. According to the social media post by the DCFPD, the certification not only expands her opportunities in the emergency services career field, but also strengthens the level of care and service she brings to the Dent County community. An emergency medical technician provides out of hospital emergency medical care and transportation for critical and emergent patients who access the emergency medical services (EMS) system.

Two Mizzou School of Music professors are now Grammy Award winners after taking home one of the industry’s top honors in February. Stefan Freund and Bill Kalinkos, founding members of the contemporary ensemble Alarm Will Sound, earned the award for their album “Land of Winter.” The album is available on all streaming platforms and on YouTube. This is the first Grammy Award associated with the University of Missouri.

The US Forest Service is looking for a volunteer on-site camp host for Sutton’s Bluff near Bunker this year from April 26th to October 26th. Hosts are required to be on site every Friday, Saturday and Sunday and they must put in 30 hours each week. No training is required but a background check and reference check will be required. Those interested can apply at 401 Fairgrounds Road in Rolla. For more information, contact Hunter Harris at hunter.harris@usda.gov or Kimberly Houf at kimberly.hauf@usda.gov.

The South Central Community Action Agency wants to remind low-income citizens that they can offer energy assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program which is also known as LIHEAP. Energy Assistance is designed to provide financial assistance to help pay primary fuel source heating bills for Missourians during the months of October through March. Eligibility requirements for this assistance are based on monthly income, family size, available resources and responsibility for payment of home heating costs. The amount you  receive is also based on the type of energy source used in the home. Other assistance available is Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP) funds. These funds can be used to prevent or restore disconnected service, assist with emergency repairs and furnace replacements and even purchase wood stoves. To qualify for the ECIP assistance, households must be in a crisis in making energy payments to keep their services with their provider. The winter ECIP is available now through May based on available funding with the maximum amount of funding at $800. Applications are being accepted. For more information or to learn how to apply for LIHEAP, call the South Central Community Action Agency Satellite office in Salem at 729-3500 or call the South Central Missouri Community Action Agency in Winona at 800-325-4633. You can also get the application online at scmcaa.org/energy-assistance.

At the Dent County Commission meeting Monday, March 2nd, County Clerk Angie Curley reported the updated filings for the primary election August 6th. Candidates in order of filing are Nathan T. Kelsaw, Associate Circuit Judge; AJ Seay, Presiding Commissioner; James K. Weber, Prosecuting Attorney; Jessica Dooley, Recorder of Deeds; Kristi Morton Craig, Circuit Clerk; Shannon VanKirk, Collector; Denita Williams, Treasurer; and Melissa Piatt, Recorder of Deeds. The last day to file is Tuesday, March 31st. For more information, contact the Dent County Courthouse by calling 573-729-4144 or visiting 400 North Main. 

The City of Salem provided information yesterday, March 3rd to the public on how city staff address turbidity. Turbidity, referring to water that appears cloudy due to tiny suspended particles, can occur in any water system and can be caused by equipment, lightning strikes, earthquakes or seismic activity, or changes in direction or amount of water flow. As Salem relies on well water, turbidity is more likely when underground conditions shift. In particular, one of the city’s wells draws from an aquifer influenced by the New Madrid Fault Line, which means even minor tremors can disturb sediment. Once sediment enters the system, the only way to remove it is by flushing the water mains. This is done by opening fire hydrants and allowing sediment-laden water to exit the system. Hydrant flushing also exercises hydrant valves, confirms hydrants open and close properly, and ensures readiness for fire and emergency use. Customers can review Salem’s official water quality reports, including annual Consumer Confidence Reports, by visiting the city’s public works webpage at salemmo.com/city/government/departments/public_works.

According to the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency, this week is Severe Weather Preparedness Week for 2026. Last year was the deadliest year for Missouri tornadoes in 14 years. The National Weather Service (NWS) reports 16 Missourians died because of tornadoes in 2025, making it the deadliest since 158 people were killed in the 2011 Joplin EF-5 tornado. There will be a statewide tornado drill at 11:00 this morning however, according to the Salem Police Department, there will not be a tornado drill within the City of Salem, as it has recently updated its storm system, which automatically tests itself each morning. For more information on staying safe in severe weather, the NWS provides several safety tips and educational information on its Severe Weather Preparedness Week page at weather.gov/lsx/severeweek. 

In Dent County, culvert replacement on Route 19 is planned from now to March 6th north of Salem from County Road 4122 to County Road 4126. One lane will remain open, and crews will flag traffic through the work zone. In addition, other moving operations such as pothole patching, brush cutting, and pavement repairs continue in various locations. Motorists should travel with care and be alert for slow-moving equipment. All work is weather permitting, and schedules are subject to change.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol, in conjunction with the American Legion, is now accepting applications for the 54th Cadet Patrol Academy. The joint program between the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the American Legion is looking for young men and women ages from 16 to 18 to join the 54th Cadet Patrol Academy for the 2026 class. The week-long class begins June 7th and gives students an opportunity to gain hands on experience and an understanding of law enforcement. Additionally, students can explore different career paths within the Patrol. The Cadets will spend the week mirroring the work recruits do during the Patrol academy. A graduation ceremony will be held for participants on Friday, June 12th. Students who apply must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher, be of good moral character, have a valid driver’s license or permit, turn 16 prior to April 1st, and have an interest in pursuing a career in the Criminal Justice System. Those interested may obtain an application from their local American Legion Post. Questions regarding the Cadet Patrol Academy can be directed to Corporal Michael Halim at 573-522-7650.

Opening Day of the Missouri Trout Season occurred Sunday at Montauk State Park and as usual, a great crowd was on hand. According to Kyle Case, the Hatchery Manager at Montauk State Park, there were 1,920 adult trout tags and 336 children’s tags sold for a total of 2,256 tags for opening day. Jean and James Morton fired the starter pistol to start the trout season Sunday morning. The largest lunker caught on Sunday was a 4-pound, 13-ounce rainbow by Andy Gerringer of St. Charles, followed by a 3-pound, 12-ounce rainbow by Gabe Lenox of Rolla. The Missouri Department of Conservation staff spent the days leading up to March 1st stocking about 7,500 rainbow trout in the surrounding pools from Montauk Fish Hatchery. The catch-and-keep season will be in effect until October 31st.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse. Tom Essex from Dent County Road 5130 was in to talk about cut phone lines that occurred twice in a three-week span last year when county employees installed or replaced culverts. District 1 Commissioner Keith Green told him he was aware of one of the incidents but not Commissioner Williams wanted to remind anyone interested in county surplus property that those sealed bids must be turned in to the county clerk’s office by 10:00 in the morning on Thursday, March 5th at 400 North Main Street in Salem. On the outside of the envelope of your sealed bid, please indicate which piece of equipment you are submitting a bid on. A person can submit bids on all the equipment or just one of the pieces of equipment. Persons interested in seeing the equipment before they bid are welcome to come to the road and bridge department shed on Highway 32-72 West. You may want to call 573-729-7770 to make sure someone is there before stopping by. The commission will have the right to accept or reject all bids. Courtney Wageman with LJ Hart & Company came in and went over the Lease Certificates of Participation Series 2027 and a financial analysis. She talked about two different options on how the county could afford a new handicapped accessible courtroom built next to the jail. In her discussion, she went over how much money the county has left in the jail account, which currently is about $2 million dollars, and sales tax inflation over a projected 2% per year annual increase. The first option is a one that does not require a vote of the people. The project would be about a $2.5 to $3.5 million dollar project which would be about a $1 million-dollar, 11-year payment period over the existing sales tax already in place. The second option would require an election by the people that would continue the half cent tax for a $6.5 to $7.5 million dollar project, and it would take over 20 years to pay off the debt. The commission does not want to do the second option but will explore options of going with option 1. Gary will make some phone calls to get some information from Shive-Hattery Engineering who was the engineer for the new jail. Major Lenny Pabin from the Sheriff’s Department was also present to discuss this subject. His concerns were that if it could be built, there would be limited funding in the jail trust fund for the upkeep, repairs, insurance of a new building. No decision was made by commission as they are exploring options. Jack Todd came in to discuss with Commissioner Green the installation of his new culvert. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.