Local News

The Dent County Health Center (DCHC) Board of Trustees met, February 19th at 5:00. The Board held a public hearing on the Food Code Fee Schedule. It was reviewed by the Board and approved. Administrator Zach Moser presented the Operational reports for the month of January. In the Communicable Disease Report, he stated there were 3 cases of COVID-19 reported, while the active lead cases were reported at 69, plus 13 communicable disease cases. There were 72 Influenza cases, 3 animal bites were reported, and there were 22 screenings for sexually transmitted infections, resulting in 82 total tests and 9 treatments. The January environmental report showed there where 17 total inspections or re-inspections conducted. The Maternal-Child Health (MCH) statistics showed there were 9 car seats distributed, there was one Show-Me Healthy Women appointment and 331 WIC appointments. The Community-Specific Services Summary showed 516 total appointments other than WIC, 144 total provider appointments, 178 treatment court visits, 162 lab appointments, 36 immunization appointments, 47 CareCab Rides. Nurse Practitioner Service Details showed one Show-Me Healthy Women appointment, 11 family plannings, one well-child visit, one other well-woman exam, 8 other physicals, 14 SEMO physicals, plus 49 other visits, and 59 acute illness appointments for a total of 144 visits. Laboratory details showed 163 Lab Draws, 16 appointments for Rapid Test for COVID, Flu, RSV or Strep, 2 pregnancy tests, 10 lead tests were reported, plus 12 other urine drug screenings. Phlebotomy appointments totaled 122, while all Lab appointments totaling 152. Immunizations for January showed 8 for COVID-19 and 16 for Influenza, plus 31 other vaccines given during 36 appointments. In the Administrator’s report, Moser reported several dates for DCHC events in 2026. Moser reported on the progress of the annual financial audit, plus he noted that the CD approved at the last meeting had been purchased and the tentative acceptance of the Cybersecurity Improvement Grant and the goal of switching to a contracted IT service pending approval of the granters. He said a CareCab driver had been hired. Moser presented two opioid grants that were award to the Health Center and asked for budget modification to accommodate the grants. The request received Board approval. Moser discussed the DCHC Care Fund, he requested permission to make it an official fund and allow payroll deduction for purchases from the fund. The Board approved the request. The financial reports for January were reviewed. Current assets at the end of January were $1,338,496.12. Total assets were $2,175,200.47, total liabilities were $364,172.88, and equity was $1,811,027.59. Revenue for January was $195,688.48. Cost of services were $50,384.84 for a gross revenue of $145,303.64. Expenses were $74,105.26 for a net operating revenue of $71,198.38. After other revenue and expenses, net revenue was $76,774.63. No report from H&R Block was received. During new business Zach presented details on a new position request for a Grant & Strategic Initiatives Coordinator funded between 3 or more grants with compensation ranging from $20-$28 per hour depending on experience. The Board approved the position request. Prior to adjournment the next regular meeting date was set for Thursday, March 19th, 2026, at 5:00.

On February 24, 2026, the Board of Aldermen met in Closed Session in accordance with RSMo. 610.021(3) to discuss personnel matters. Following a roll call vote of 4-0 (Kinsey – yes, Whelan – yes, Dent – yes, Letchworth – yes), the board approved a pay adjustment for Economic Development Director Carrie Sutterfield to $60,000 annually effective immediately. Since Sutterfield’s appointment in July 2025 and successfully completing her probationary period, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to her job responsibilities and consistently serves the community with professionalism, integrity, and dedication. 

Every March 1st, hundreds of die-hard anglers line the banks at one of Missouri’s trout parks for opening day of catch-and-keep trout season. This year, Sunday morning, March 1st, at 6:30 marks the opening of the season that runs through October 31st. To participate, Missouri residents ages 16 to 64 and nonresidents 16 and older are required to purchase a fishing permit. In addition to a fishing permit, trout anglers must also purchase a daily trout tag. Tags can be purchased at the trout parks: Roaring River State Park near Cassville, Bennett Spring State Park near Lebanon and Montauk State Park near Salem. A daily trout tag at the three state parks costs $5 for adults and $3 for youth 15 years and younger. Daily fishing permits are $9. The daily limit is four trout, and the possession limit is eight. For more information on fishing at trout parks visit mdc.mo.gov. In Dent County Montauk State Park store hours for Friday, February 27th are 8:00 in the morning until 7:00 in the evening. The restaurant will be open from 8:00 until 6:00. Then on Saturday, February 28th, the store hours are from 8:00 in the morning until 11:00 at night and that time is new this year. The restaurant will be opening up at 8:00 and remain open until 8:30 in the evening. Finally on Sunday, March 1st the store hours will be from 5:00 am until 9:00 pm, while the restaurant will be open from 7:00 am. until 8:30 pm. For more information on trout season opening, visit mostateparks.com or call Montauk State Park at 573-548-2201, Roaring River State Park at 417-847-2539, or Bennett Spring State Park at 417-532-4338.

You’re invited to attend the next Salem and Dent County meeting of “Sleep in Heavenly Peace” Monday afternoon, March 2nd starting at 5:30 and lasting until 6:30 in the evening at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. If you have questions, please contact Patti McKeown at 703-964-6495 or e-mail her at patti.mckeown@shpbeds.org.

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 a request from Rob Benowitz for a street closure in connection with the 100 Acre Wood Rally on March 14th. Benowitz requested that Iron Street and 5th Street around the courthouse be closed for the pre-race meet and greet. The Local on 4th and Skip Dahms both submitted a request to close Fourth Street between Washington Street and Highway 19 to allow businesses to set up tables during the rally’s meet and greet. That request was approved as well. In new and miscellaneous business, the board voted to begin contract negotiations with Toth & Associates for on-call engineering services. During reports from city officials, Mayor Greg Parker said he has received several complaints from residents about delays in receiving utility bills and encouraged customers to sign up for email billing. Alderman Michael Letchworth reported that he attended the Good Dads orientation in Springfield and is looking forward to implementing what he learned. Alderwoman Catherine Dent provided updates on the beautification project along Highway 32 and Highway 19 and announced she will host a West Ward block party on Thursday, March 12, at 7:00 as a thank you to her constituents. With no further reports, the board entered executive session to discuss personnel matters. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Aldermen will be held March 10 and will be open to the public.

The Salem Police Department recently released their report for the month of January. The department responded to six accidents during the month as well as eight alarms sounding, addressed 47 animal calls, investigated an assault or fight, a report of a burglary, performed 23 well-being checks and 14 area checks in January. Police investigated 13 domestic disputes, six verbal disturbances, conducted 43 follow-up investigations and provided 24 escorts. They investigated three harassment reports, two parking complaint calls, one intoxicated pedestrian call, a fraud charge, two trespassing calls and a property damage report. The Salem Police wrote five stealing reports, responded to nine traffic complaints and assisted ten motorists. Officers responded to a report of a suicidal person, 11 suspicious circumstance calls, three suspicious person calls and four suspicious vehicle calls. The Salem Police in January investigated a report of shots fired, two reports of shoplifting, two reports of a prowler, two peace disturbances and 22 nuisance violations. Officers attempted to serve ten warrants and they conducted 113 traffic stops during the month. The police responded to a total of 508 incidents in January with the average response time being one minutes and 51 seconds. The average time spent on the scene was 14 minutes and 38 seconds. If you have any information regarding an ongoing investigation, contact the Salem Police Department by calling their non-emergency phone number at (573) 729-6550 or speak with them in person at 500 N. Jackson Street in Salem.

The Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District is seeking area sponsors within its seven-county region for the 35th Annual Earth Day Poster, Trash Art and Graphic Art Contest. Sponsorships provide prizes for students placing first and second along with honorable mentions in the contest. Some 91 students received prizes in 2025. The trash art and poster contests are open to all students in grades pre-kindergarten to college, including home-schooled students, within Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties. Students have the opportunity to participate in multiple contest categories, including posters that are hand drawn and feature graphic arts, and also to repurpose recyclables and trash into three-dimensional pieces of art. This year’s theme is “Be a Food Waste Warrior” with a focus on reducing food waste by not taking too much food, sharing your leftovers, feeding food waste to farm animals and composting. All sponsors receive their logo on the contest flyer and special recognition on the ORSWMD website and Facebook page. For more information, contact Jill Hollowell, via email jhollowell@meramecregion.org or via phone at 573-265-2993 ext. 109.

A Salem man suffered serious injuries in an accident that occurred Tuesday morning at approximately 6:15 on Highway 68 one-half mile north of the Salem City Limits. According to the Highway Patrol report the 2008 Hyundai Sonata, operated by the 38-year-old driver, ran off the right side of the roadway, overcorrected, went off the left side of the roadway striking a culvert, then struck a building. The man was transported by Air Evac to University Hospital in Columbia. The report stated that he was not wearing a safety restraint. The Hyundai was totaled and removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing.

Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant in Bunker on February 20th leading to the arrest of a wanted fugitive. According to the Reynolds County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Wilkinson applied for and obtained the warrant after investigators developed information that the subject was likely located at a residence in Bunker. Sheriff McCoy, Deputy Wilkinson, Deputy Brumble, Bunker Police Chief Martin, and a member of the ORP Task Force carried out the warrant. During the search, officers located Amanda McGruder, who was wanted on a felony no-bond warrant out of Crawford County. The warrant charges listed include three counts of possession of controlled substances, a class D felony, and once charge for unlawful use of a weapon, a class E felony. McGruder was taken into custody without incident. McGruder was transported and booked on the outstanding warrant. The Reynolds County Sheriff’s Office expressed appreciation to the Bunker Police Department and the ORP Task Force for their assistance in the operation. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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 and Pledge of Allegiance, the board approved the agenda and consent agenda. Superintendent Dr. Nathan Wills shared correspondence from Wes and Dana Connell. Twenty-one students, from the Senior High School, in the Career and Technical Education Apprenticeship and two students in the Family and Consumer Sciences programs were recognized at the meeting. During his report, Dr. Wills updated board members regarding legislative fiscal notes, ongoing and future repairs to the high school gymnasium floor, and wall repainting plans, the next school year’s calendar, and the staff survey results. After the Administration Board Reports the board approved the contract for policy services from the Missouri School Boards’ Association (MSBA), as well as the MSBA Policy Updates. The motion to approve the updated principal’s contract, the 2026-2027 School Calendar, and the Wagner Photo contract was also approved. The meeting then moved into Executive session to discuss personnel matters before adjourning. The next meeting of the Salem R-80 School Board of Education is scheduled for March 12, in the Administration Building and will be open to the public. 

In recognition and celebration of Drinking Water Week, May 3rd through the 9th, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the Missouri Section American Water Works Association are holding a poster contest for students in the fifth grade. The department is now accepting entries, which must be postmarked by end of the month this Saturday. This year’s poster theme is “Save It, Don’t Waste It!” Posters should show ways to save and conserve our drinking water. Entries should be no larger than 11 x 17 inches, and artists may draw with any color or physical media, such as crayon, marker or pencil to create their posters. Digital media submissions will not be accepted. Entries will be judged on three criteria: How original the entry is, how well the concept is executed and how well the poster relates to public water supplies. Judges will choose a first, second and third place winner. Prizes include $300 for first place, $200 for second place and $100 for third place. The American Water Works Association provides the prize money. The department will feature winning entries on its social media platforms and website. Posters will not be returned after the contest. All posters should be submitted to Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Public Drinking Water Branch, Attention: Tena Hale, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176. For more information or for questions about the contest, contact Tena Hale of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources at 573-526-2180.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will meet this evening at 5:30 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 and consider multiple street closure requests, including one from Rob Benowitz for the 100 Acre Wood Rally, a request related to The Local on March 14, 2026, and a request from Skip Dahms. New and miscellaneous business will include discussion of an engineering firm recommendation, followed by reports from city officials. The meeting will conclude with a closed session, to discuss personnel matters, before adjourning. The regular portion of tonight’s meeting is open to the public. 

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams gave the CART Tax receipts for the month of February. Dent County received $92,158.32 which is $3,884.49 more than last February. Year-to-date, the CART funds are up $6,557.00 which is about a 3.8% increase. Dent County Emergency Management Director Derrick Marfitt reported the FEMA reimbursement for Dent County Road 4210 is waiting on the report from Great Rivers Engineering. The county is still waiting on funding approval from FEMA for all the obligated projects the road department has already completed. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said brush will be cut on Dent County Road 5620 and possibly on county road 5630. Workers will be servicing one truck, and another crew will be replacing missing road signs on county roads. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams stated brush will be cut on county road 2370. Williams indicated both tractors are being worked on and signs will be replaced on county road 3140. Williams did say that grading may begin on county road 2210. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson reported he attended a meeting in St. James Friday at the MRPC building on the elimination of solid waste management districts. Larson said there were numerous reps in person and on zoom discussing their opposition to the idea that is being pushed by the governor to reassign funding to the Department of Natural Resources. Larson will keep the county posted on any further information he receives on future developments. Larson said the commissioners would not be meeting Thursday, February 26th, due to their annual training. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said excused absentee voting for the Municipal Election starts today at the courthouse. Today will also be the first day for those who want to file for county or state offices for the Primary election in August. Interested candidates for the county offices can begin filing at the courthouse at 8:00 this morning at the county clerk’s office and that is on a first come, first serve basis. Those wanting to run for state office will need to file at the James C. Kirkpatrick State Information Center located at 600 West Main Street in Jefferson City, starting at 8:00 this morning. Curley also stated that 27 counties in Missouri will benefit from the federal reimbursement for timber impacted counties and Dent County is one of them. She said Dent County will receive $150,403.00 for fiscal year 2025 and 2026. Dent County is a member of NACO who was the advocate in winning this major victory to pass the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act. The commission accepted the bid from Blevins Asphalt from Mount Vernon for 10 miles of chip and seal work for $205,920. The Commissioners agreed to seek bids for a used light duty dump truck between the years 2019 and 2024. For bids specs on the truck, call Keith at 573-247-6658. Bids will be due on March 5th at 10:30 in the morning. The commission will have the right to accept or reject all bids. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

At its February Board of Directors meeting, the Dent County Fire Protection District approved two initiatives aimed at strengthening volunteer firefighter recruitment: the first is the reintroduction of the Junior Firefighter Program and the second is an update to the district’s residency requirement.  The Junior Firefighter Program is designed to introduce young adults to the fire service while building foundational skills that support personal and professional development. Junior Firefighters will be allowed to participate on incident scenes in a support role, train in a controlled environment, and represent the department at public relation events. Eligible applicants must be between 16 and 18 years of age, maintain a minimum “C” grade average, and obtain parental or guardian consent. Assistant Chief Derrick Marfitt emphasized this program allows young adults to experience the fire service while learning valuable skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and discipline. The Board also approved changes to the department’s residency requirement. Previously, volunteer firefighters were required to reside within district boundaries. Under the updated policy, applicants residing anywhere in Dent County may now be considered, provided they have not been affiliated with another Dent County fire department within the previous year. This restriction ensures the Dent County Fire Protection District does not recruit active members from neighboring departments. The revised policy also allows the Board of Directors flexibility to consider applicants with unique circumstances. Anyone who is interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter is encouraged to apply online at www.dentcountyfire.org or visit the fire station at #2 South Main Street in Salem during regular training nights held on the first and third Thursday nights of each month from 7:00–10:00. The Dent County Fire Protection District is comprised of more than 20 volunteer firefighters who respond to emergencies across approximately 127 square miles of Dent County, including the City of Salem. The district responds to an average of 240 emergency calls each year. 

Come out and support the Salem FFA Chapter at their upcoming Community & Supporter Fish Fry on Wednesday, February 25th from 11:00 in the morning until 1:00 in the afternoon at the Salem FFA Metal Shop at the Ag Building. The cost is by donation only! Give What You Can! Enjoy a delicious fish fry meal while supporting the hard-working members of the Salem FFA chapter. All the proceeds help fund student leadership opportunities, competitions, and agricultural education activities throughout the year. Bring your family, invite your friends, and come hungry! We appreciate the continued support from our amazing community.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds hunters that Missouri youth, archery, and firearms turkey hunters can apply online for 2026 spring turkey managed hunts during February at mdc.mo.gov/springturkeyhunts. Managed hunt details and application procedures are outlined on the webpage. Drawing results will be posted starting March 15th. Spring turkey hunting opens with the spring youth portion April 11th and 12th followed by the regular spring turkey season from April 20th through May 10th. Detailed information on spring turkey hunting will be available in MDC’s “2026 Spring Turkey Hunting Regulations and Information” booklet, available where permits are sold beginning in February. Learn more about turkey hunting in Missouri at mdc.mo.gov.

There will be a Polymer Clay Sculpting Class this afternoon from 1:00 to 3:00, with Jan Craig at the Creative Arts Center. To sign up, visit the SACBA website at sacba.org.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse. Victoria Luby was in attendance to talk with the commission about issues she is having on Private Lane 601 and that she has not been able to get the sheriff’s department to respond. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson contacted Major Lenny Pabin who then met with the woman to hear her concerns. Deloris Gray Wood was in attendance to request permission to use the courthouse steps and lawn on July 4th and September 4th for special events and the commissioners approved. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said one grader is down as a Caterpillar service person is doing repair work on it. He stated grading would be done on Dent County Roads 6080 and 6083, while a driveway crossover pipe will be installed and rock added on county road 2460. Green went on to say brush will be cut on county road 5620 and rock will be stockpiled at the Road and Bridge Department. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams said workers will be grading Dent County Roads 3140 and 3180, while brush will be cut on county road 2210. Williams indicated trees will be trimmed on county roads 2210 and 3260, and a sign will be installed on county road 3250. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson stated last Wednesday he attended the TAC meeting and regular MRPC meeting in St. James. Larson said he was informed that funding has been found to build a new bridge on Route TT near Sligo and it will be added to the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program to be built in 2028 or 2029. Larson went on to report he attended a tourism tax committee meeting and one request was submitted and approved by Flat Nasty, and there were no requests for reimbursement. Larson also said he would be attending a meeting at the MRPC offices today concerning the future of solid waste management districts as there is legislation that would eliminate the districts. Larson then talked with both Commissioner Green and Williams about a request from Joanie Prenger from MoDOT for an updated inventory of the county roads being maintained or that have been abandoned. Larson also asked the commissioners about a request he received from Jeff Dotson from Northwood R-4 to use two of the county hours they receive from the MRPC for paying their annual fees for grant preparation and the commission approved his request. Deputy Clerk Melissa Piatt said bills would be paid and she was checking poll pads for the upcoming excused absentee voting for the Municipal Election that will begin on February 24th at the courthouse. At 10:00, the commission opened bids for chip and seal. They received two bids: one from Blevins Asphalt from Mount Vernon for 10 miles of chip and seal work for $205,920, and the other was from West Brothers out of Pacific for $249,588.24 for 10 miles of chip and seal work. The commission will review the bids before making a final decision. The commissioners also signed the letter saying the commission supports holding the “Rally in the 100 Acre Wood” in Dent County put on by the American Rally Association. At the last meeting, Dent County Collector Shannon VanKirk gave her report on the January turnover which came to $364,693.60. VanKirk also asked the commission to outlaw the 2023 unknown real estate and 2020 personal property taxes totaling $7,608.08 and they approved. She also stated that Dent County will no longer be accepting E-checks online to pay taxes due to too many errors being made by customers typing in misinformation on their accounts causing red flags. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public. 

The University of Missouri Extension invites you to join them at 3:00 Sunday afternoon as Carey Portell launches the International Year of the Woman Farmer with an inspiring keynote webinar for Pearls of Production. Portell is a resilient force in the agricultural world who has overcome the physical limitations she suffered in a serious car crash to become a successful cattle farmer, author and speaker as she discovered a “new normal” with the support of the Missouri AgrAbility program. Portell adapted her cattle production by implementing innovative tools and strategies that ensure both the sustainability of her operation and her long-term success. Her incredible journey underscores the importance of adaptive agriculture and resilient leadership by encourage producers to transform their challenges into opportunities for growth. You can register for the webinar by going to the University of Missouri Extension Website. If you have questions, contact Heather Conrow at hconrow@missouri.edu or 660-248-2272.

The Salem Police Department is asking for your help to solve an open homicide investigation. On March 9th, 2015, Rosalee Byrd was found deceased inside her home. Authorities determined the cause of death to be homicide resulting from blunt force trauma. Since that time, investigators have pursued numerous leads and continue their efforts to identify and apprehend the individual or individuals responsible. The Salem Police Department’s Investigative Unit believes there are members of the public who may possess critical information related to this case. This remains an active investigation, and any detail, no matter how small, could be significant. For official tips or to speak directly with the Salem Police Department, you may call (573) 729-4242 or email: SPDTIPS@salemmo.com.  If you have information and wish to remain anonymous, please contact the CrimeStoppers Tip Line at 1-866-371-TIPS (8477) – tips@stlrcs.org. Your assistance could make a difference in helping to solve this case.

The Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors held its regular meeting Tuesday at 7:00 in the Doctor’s Library. The agenda was approved with revisions to move public comments, the 340B mock audit discussion, and the Childcare Allowance Benefit/Grant to the beginning of the meeting. During public comments, a local resident called regarding an incident that occurred last year on hospital grounds. Because the matter involved a patient, the board elected to discuss it in closed session. Under Policies and Procedures, the board approved the Long-Term Care Resident and Staff Immunization Policy. The approval of the Infection Prevention – Healthcare Worker Immunization Policy was again tabled pending accurate information on how many of the hospital’s 180 employees have been vaccinated against measles. The current immunization policy recommends certain vaccines but only requires the influenza vaccine; employees may decline vaccinations for medical, religious, or other exempt reasons. The hospital has been selected for a HRSA audit in April, which requires completion of a 340B mock audit in advance. The hospital’s attorney agreed to conduct the mock audit on short notice, ahead of schedule at a cost of $12,000—$2,000 above the amount budgeted. The board approved the additional expense. Local childcare center director Nancy Major attended the meeting to answer questions regarding the proposed Childcare Allowance Benefit/Grant. The request would provide $5 per child per day, capped at $30,000 annually. The board authorized CEO Brooke Bollman to pursue the grant opportunity, with a formal press release to follow once details are finalized. In her report, Bollman highlighted ongoing recruitment efforts, strategic planning initiatives, and updates regarding the Missouri Independent Hospital Network, revenue cycle, and the hospital’s pending 2024 audit. In January, inpatient admissions remained steady at 55. Outpatient registrations totaled 1,101, slightly higher than December, and laboratory testing increased due to the hospital’s January health fair. Emergency room visits and ambulance runs also rose. Total operating revenue for January was approximately $2.1 million, with operating expenses of about $1.8 million, resulting in a monthly operating gain of about $398,000. The hospital currently maintains 40 days of cash on hand. Net 340B revenue for January was $43,434, which was consistent with December. Following reports from the Chief Nursing Officer, Human Resources, and Quality Improvement, the board reviewed the hospital’s FY2026–2031 Strategic Plan and approved the Mission, Vision, and Values statement pending minor grammatical revisions. The Capital Budget was approved, with infrastructure updates removed until further strategic planning can occur. The Equalize Revenue Cycle Management agreement was also approved. Bollman announced that, beginning March 1, the hospital will offer tax-season discounts for patients who choose to pay their accounts in full. The  next regular meeting of the Salem Memorial Hospital board of Directors will be held March 31st at 7:00 in the Doctor’s Library, and is open to the public. 

There will be a Chunky Knit Blanket class this Friday, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the Creative Arts Center with Danielle Kissir. Learn how to finger knit a large lap throw/chunky blanket in your favorite colors, sports team colors, cancer awareness colors, etc!  Bring a friend and make it a party! This is a beginner friendly class and is fun for all ages! No prior crochet or knitting experience is required, but will be beneficial. Six skeins of chunky yarn (2 of each color) and patterns will be provided for $75, or bring your own chosen colors of chunky yarn (2-3 of each color for a total of six) for $35. This class is for those who are 10 years if age and up. At least five people must sign up for the class and it will be limited to 10.  To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on the “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center.

Yesterday Your World Today reported that you could e-file your personal and/or business assessment forms online up to April 30th. Dent County Assessor Alisa Brookshire notified us that the e-filing service has been discontinued. We appreciate the clarification from the Assessor’s Office and apologize to our readers for any confusion. If you have any questions regarding your assessment form you can contact the Dent County Courthouse at 573-729-6010 or stop by during regular business hours.

A public hearing will be held by the Dent County Health Center Board of Trustees tomorrow afternoon, at 5:00 in the Dent County Health Center Conference Room located at 1014 E. Scenic Rivers Blvd in Salem. The purpose of the hearing is to receive public comment on proposed changes to the Dent County Health Center environmental fee schedule prior to consideration of adoption by the Board. The hearing is open to the public.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will be meeting tomorrow at 5:30 in the R-80 Board Room. After the Call to Order and the Pledge of Allegiance the Board will approve the agenda and the consent agenda. The Board will hear communications from Wes and Dana Connell. Salem High School CTE (Career & Technical Education) and FACS (Family & Consumer Science) receive recognition. In the Superintendent’s Report CSIP Goals will be addressed in all reports. Administration reports will be heard from William Lynch, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, Athletics and Activities, Special Education, Technology, and Maintenance. In new business, the Board will approve MSBA contract for policy services, MSBA policy updates, updated principal’s contract, 2026-2027 School Calendar, and the Wagner Picture Contract. No Transfers, Hires, or Resignations/Retirements are scheduled to be considered. 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 R80 Board of Education is open to the public.

Earthquakes are among the last thing Missourians are thinking about during the month of February. But that’s the point of Missouri Earthquake Awareness Month, which is observed across the state each February.  State Emergency Management Agency Director Jim Remillard said a major earthquake for Missouri is what’s known as a “high-impact, low-frequency” event, which is why most people don’t think about them at all. “But these types of natural disasters – unpredictable, but with the potential for catastrophic consequences when they do occur – require training, planning, exercises and building resilience in the emergency management, business and transportation sectors. We urge residents to consider their preparedness as well. Earthquakes warrant special attention in Missouri because of the presence of the New Madrid Seismic Zone, in southeast Missouri, which in 1811-12 generated some of the most powerful earthquakes to ever jolt the U.S. Buildings were destroyed, church bells rang hundreds of miles away and the Mississippi River briefly flowed backward. The NMSZ is still active, with an average of over 200 tiny earthquakes, most of which can’t be perceived, each year. Experts estimate there is a 25-40% chance of a large earthquake occurring in the next 50 years. Residents in southeast Missouri, should check to make sure they are prepared in case of an earthquake. When shaking starts the way to stay safe and protect yourself is to “Drop, Cover and Hold On” if an earthquake occurs. Get under a table or desk, drop to your knees, cover your head and hold on until the shaking stops. Falling debris is the most common cause of injury in nations with modern building codes. There are a number of other preparedness steps Missourians should take. Resources for families, schools and businesses are available on SEMA’s Earthquake Preparedness website, including fact sheets, interactive maps and informational videos that explain what to do in the event of an earthquake.

A Salem woman was involved in an accident in Reynolds County Sunday afternoon at approximately 3:30. According to the Highway Patrol report the accident occurred on Highway 21 four miles south of Ellington when a 2014 Jeep Renegade traveled off of the left side of the roadway, overturned and struck a tree. The report stated that the 75-year-old female suffered serious injuries and was transported by aircraft to Mercy South in St. Louis. The report went on to indicate that the woman was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Jeep sustained moderate damage and was towed from the scene by Assie’s towing at trooper’s request.

The Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors will hold their regular meeting tonight at 7:00 in the hospital’s library. After the call to order, roll call and approval of the agenda, the board will discuss approval of policies and procedures from Infectious Diseases, including the Healthcare Worker Immunization Policy. Any registered public comments or presentations will be heard before the operational reports from Chief Executive Officer Brooke Bollman, Chief Nursing Officer, Amber Hogan, and Quality Improvement Director Kendra Mobray. There is no unfinished business on this meeting’s agenda. Under New Business, the board will discuss the 340B Mock Audit, the hospital’s strategic plan through fiscal year 2031, and the Childcare Allowance Benefit/Grant. The meeting will then adjourn to executive session to discuss legal and personnel matters, before adjourning. Except for the executive session, the meeting of the Salem Hospital Board of Directors is open to the public. Anyone that would like to attend by telephone or electronic means should contact the SMH Administration office at 573-729-6626 Extension 4005.

Dent County Assessor Alisa Brookshire wants to remind everyone your annual assessment forms that list your personal and business property for 2025 are due March 1st. You may drop off your assessment list at the assessor’s office at the courthouse. They are open from 8:00 in the morning until 4:30 in the afternoon. There is also a drop box on the front lawn of the courthouse for your convenience if you can’t make it by until after hours. You can also mail in your assessment list forms but make sure you have a postal clerk postmark your envelope by taking it to the desk inside at the post office. You can also e-file your assessment list form online until April 30th. Just follow the instructions on the assessment form you received in the mail. The penalty for not getting in your assessment form on time is determined at $10 per every $1,000 of assessed valuation with a maximum penalty of $100 if you have assessed valuation of $10,000 or more. If you have any questions or need assistance with the online form, call Dent County Assessor Alisa Brookshire at the Dent County Courthouse at 573-729-6010 or stop by during regular business hours.