Local News

A public hearing to set the tax rate levy for real estate and personal property taxes in the City of Salem was held Monday night before the Salem Board of Aldermen meeting and no one spoke on the tax levy. At the regular meeting, Bill Parsons spoke to the board that most of the billing issues he brought up at the last meeting have been addresses and finalized. He still has a some issues on one property where the bills were paid in cash, but the house burnt and the receipts were apparently destroyed. Parsons agreed to work with Public Works Director Mark Nash on resolving that issue. Parsons also asked for the closure of 4th Street between Hickory and Water Streets, and Water to 3rd Street for an Octoberfest to be held Friday, October 29th through the 31st. A discussion to make sure the B&B on 4th Street had parking was brought up, but was resolved by Parsons and the board. They approved the request. Crystal and Ted Kiddy brought to the attention of the board that a number of cars, semi-trucks and motorcycles are speeding down North Jackson toward the Salem Care Center and back as well as on some alley ways shooting rocks into windows. They said some people even park in the alley ways and it is unsafe for children to play. Police Chief Joe Chase said a road survey was done and the top speed was 31 MPH and there was no stop sign violations. He said another survey can be done with a handheld radar gun, preferably in an unmarked car. Aldermen Greg Parker did request that a four-way stop be placed at West 8th Street and North Jackson as there is a small hill that leaves a blind spot that can be very dangerous. The Kiddy’s also said that a neighbor two doors down continues to burn rubber, plastic and tires. The alderman said to contact the police so that a report can be made. After the consent agenda, the board discussed a gate system for the Industrial Park Yard Waste area. Public Works Director Nash explained the one bid received from Rick Emory to install 40-feet of heavy duty fencing with an 18 ft heavy duty gate. The fence would be anchored by 4 ½ inch posts five foot into the ground with 2 3/8 inch pipe that would run into the woods for a total cost of $5,965. The alderman approved the bid. Police Chief Joe Chase then discussed a camera system for the Industrial Park Yard Waste Site. After presenting numerous options and scenarios, the board approved the purchase of a VX400 Covert Surveillance System for $5,194 from i2c Technologies which includes shipping. Economic Development Director Sally Burbridge discussed the Residential Demolition Program to the board. She said three properties will be in the initial program and all three took the 50/50 split where they pay half and the city pays half to demolish the property and put it back into green space. The people will retain their ownership of the property. The three properties are 702 West Butler owned by Connie Riggins, 1003 East Hawkins owned by Tracy and Stephanie Hughes, and 500 East 4th Street owned by Casey Jadwin. The total cost of the demolition came to $16,025 and the owners will have to pay their half of the demolition costs to the city before the work begins. Bids were let out to do the demolition work and the bid recommended after scoring by the staff was to Godi’s Excavating. The board approved Resolution #23-2021 to authorize the mayor to sign an agreement with Godi Excavating to do the demolition work. The board approved the tax levy of 67.46 cents per $100 assessed valuation for the year 2021 for real estate and personal property within the city limits in Bill #3487. They also approved Resolution #22-2021 that states the city intends to seek funding through the American Rescue Plan Act and authorizes the mayor to pursue activities in an attempt to secure funding. City Administrator Ray Walden said there will be 110 utilities subject to cut-off starting today, and that utility bills are on track to be out by the first of the month. He told the board there were 3,999 people taking part in activities at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. He also told the board about Healthy Dent County bringing back Project Rise which can help families move toward self-sufficiency. He told the board there would be a joint finance and utility meeting Thursday night at 6:00 at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. The board took up a discussion on the request to rezone the property at 306 East Franklin from commercial to industrial that included Building Inspector Jared Brown who recommended the property not be rezoned creating spot zoning even though the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended the change. With no motion made by the board, the topic died on the floor. The board then went into closed session.

Airport Board President Harold Tubbs has called a meeting of the Airport Board this evening at 6:00 at the Salem Community Center at The Armory. The meeting will be held to introduce new board members, Alderman representatives, and staff as well as the election of officers. The board will discuss the status of contracting fuel services, repairing the ground wire by the fuel tank area, the status of hanger rentals, give a courtesy car update, and discuss the location of the pilot lounge. There will be an update on the airport lights, a review of NOTAM posters, a gate opener update, a discussion on regulations on disabled planes in the tie down area, renting the airport grounds for the production of hay, and other business. The meeting of the Airport Board tonight is open to the public.

The Salem Police Department has released report from the last week of July. On Friday, July 23rd near 12:30 in the afternoon, an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle that was not displaying any registration plates. During the traffic stop it was found the driver had a revoked driving status. As a result of the stop, a 41-year-old Salem woman was arrested and issued a summons to appear in court. That same afternoon just after 5:30, an officer was dispatched to the 100 block of East Center Street for a report of a juvenile issue. Upon further investigation, contact was made with a male subject who had an active arrest warrant out of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. As a result, a 32-year-old Salem man was arrested and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. Later that same evening at approximately 7:30, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart for a report of a shoplifter. It was reported that a man had stolen $30 worth of merchandise from Wal-Mart. Contact was made with the subject and as a result a 21-year-old Rolla man was arrested and released on a summons to appear in court. During the afternoon of Sunday, July 25th at around 5:00, an officer was dispatched to Wal- Mart for a disturbance pertaining to a person attempting to steal a pair of shoes. Upon arrival of officers, the subject fled to the back of the store and went out the emergency exit. The person continued running on foot away from responding officers. A perimeter was established with assistance of the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and a short time later the subject was taken into custody. The subject taken into custody was a 32-year-old man from Salem. He was incarcerated at the Dent County Jail due to his lengthy criminal history along with the charges stemming from the incident. Finally on Tuesday morning at around 11:40, an officer conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Macarthur and Franklin Streets on a vehicle for failing to stop at a stop sign. During the traffic stop, the passenger was found to be in possession of approximately 4 grams of methamphetamine. As a result, a 42-year-old West Plains man was arrested and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding an ongoing investigation.

Have you commented on the Ozark National Scenic Riverways’ draft Roads and Trails Management Plan yet? Time is running out as the comment period will end Wednesday, August 18th for public input. The plan is available for review and comment at http://parkplanning.nps.gov/OZAR_RTplan. You can also download the Draft Plan includes detailed maps and an environmental assessment illustrating a No-Action Alternative and two Action Alternatives. The No-Action Alternative reflects a continuation of current management practices, as established in the 2014 General Management Plan. The two Action Alternatives were created based on public and stakeholder feedback gathered earlier in the planning process and represent alternative approaches for addressing issues identified in the plan, while also meeting desired conditions for managing the park’s roads and trails. The National Park Service has selected Alternative B in the Draft Plan as their preferred alternative for implementation. Superintendent Jason Lott stated that with the release of the draft Roads and Trails Management Plan, Ozark National Scenic Riverways is in the final phase of a complex planning process. The Roads and Trails Management Plan will establish a network of roads and trails that is clearly mapped, more sustainable, and that will allow visitors to safely enjoy the park’s resources through a variety of recreational activities, while still protecting those resources for future generations. For those who prefer to review printed copies of the Draft Plan, they will be made available for review at the public libraries in several local communities, including Salem and Rolla. The comments will be analyzed to determine if there are any adjustments needed and then an alternative will be selected for implementation. The public is encouraged to download and review the plan and provide comments online. Comments will also be accepted through the mail to Superintendent Jason Lott, Ozark National Scenic Riverways, P. O. Box 490, Van Buren, Missouri 63965. As always, we look forward to hearing from the public and encourage all to visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/. For more information, please contact Dena Matteson at 323-4814 or dena_matteson@nps.gov.

Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley reports on Friday, August 6th in Dent County in front of Judge Megan Seay that Robert Charles Martin of Salem who was on probation for a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance and for leaving the scene of an accident, had his probation revoked and was sentenced to seven years in the Missouri Department of Corrections under the long-term treatment program.

City of Salem Mayor Brad Nash has called for a Special Meeting of the Board of Alderman for this evening, August 12th, at 6:00 at The Community Center @ The Armory located at 1200 West Rolla Road. The meeting has been called to consider Bill No. 3486, which is an ordinance establishing new rates for electric services provided by the City of Salem. The meeting is open to the public.

Healthy Dent County will restart the Project RISE program that will empower individuals and offer support as they strive to lead their families out of poverty.  This program was first held in 2019 and then again in early 2020 but has been postponed due to the pandemic. The new cohort of families will begin this October. This program will address root issues keeping families in poverty and work toward developing strategies to overcome these challenges and sustain long-term change.  Project RISE will help provide the tools and resources to solve-problems, create new habits and provide a forum for networking and creating healthy dialogue with mentors, experts and others who have found ways to achieve additional success. Families accepted in the program will work on reducing debt, improving credit scores, increasing income, strengthening confidence and gaining hope. Only 5-7 families will be selected for this two-year program, and they must meet these requirements: have at least one dependent child; must have stable housing; they must reside in Dent County; and most importantly, the participants must be ready, willing and open to make changes to find new opportunities. To make this project a success, Healthy Dent County will work with social service agencies, churches, health care and employment specialists and community leaders. The wealth of knowledge from these professionals will be invaluable to improving the lives of these families for generations to come. Ms. Lacey Walker, Administrative Professional with Healthy Dent County, will serve as the coordinator for this program with facilitating help provided by Dan Adams from the Southeast Missouri Treatment Center, Jason Jones who is a Loan Officer at Progressive Ozark Bank, Sarah Hultine-Massengale who is the Community Development Specialist of Dent County Extension, and Liz Gruendel who is the Chairman of the Healthy Dent County Board of Directors. There are a number of ways you can partner with Healthy Dent County on this project that includes referring families, volunteering to help make a presentation at one of the 16-weekly classes, sponsor a weekly meal by providing food or donating $150, or by sponsor a family by donating $250. All donations to Healthy Dent County are tax deductible. For more information on Project RISE or to determine a family’s eligibility, please contact Lacey Walker at 729-8163 or e-mail her at lacey@salemcommunitycenter.org.

Current River State Park invites the public to learn about special uses of Missouri’s native plants from 7:00 in the morning until to 2:00 on Friday, August 13th or on Saturday, August 14th. The same class is offered each day. Participants will learn how native plants can be used on insect bites and learn to how to make rose water and more. Participants are asked to bring a lunch, a water bottle and hiking shoes to join in the fun. Participants will take a short walk to collect a few plant parts and learn what other plants look like so they can be identified later. Space is limited, and registration is required. Contact Connie at 573-751-1224 or connie.weber@dnr.mo.gov to register. The public is strongly encouraged to follow social-distancing guidelines and be proactive in protecting themselves and others. Current River State Park is located on Highway 19, approximately 23 miles south of Salem and approximately 15 miles north of Eminence. For more information, call Current River State Park at 573-751-1224. 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.

The Dent County Health Center Board of Trustees held a special meeting Thursday, August 5th. Health Center Administrator Zach Moser presented a plan for administering Covid antigen tests at the Health Center. The Board authorized the testing plan for the BINAX Now antigen test at $10.00 each. Moser presented a plan to purchase 240 COVID-19 PCR test for $9,840.00 and the ID Now machine would be included at no cost. The purchase would be covered by the ELC Grant. The Board voted to purchase the tests and set the fee for the test at $50.00. Moser presented addition information on the testing procedure and the decision tree. Protection of Health Center Staff during Covid testing was discussed. Moser explained that proper Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) would be worn through-out the procedure and testing would take place in the carport until a safe indoor space could be created. Moving Moser’s office to another location in the building was discussed. The Board authorized Moser to purchase a portable HEPA air filtration system and seek bids on a more permanent air filtration system for the room. The potential need for additional staff to conduct the testing was discussed and a decision was deferred until the next regular meeting. Moser explained the arrangement with Phelps Health to obtain the Pfizer COVID vaccine. The Pfizer vaccine is the only brand currently authorized for use in children ages 12-18. The need for an ultra-cold freezer to store the vaccine was discussed. Moser presented information on four models ranging in price from $5,700 to $12,500. He explained that the Stirling model for $5,700 was not only the most affordable, but the most flexible as it included a 12v power adapter and could be set at regular freezer temperatures if ever necessary. The Board noted that they wanted to make good use of taxpayer dollars so they approved the purchase of the Stirling model for $5,700. With no further business the meeting was adjourned.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Office has submitted the following reports for the end of July. On Thursday, July 29th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of 3rd and 4th streets. During the course of the traffic stop, a 49-year-old Salem woman was arrested for the possession of a controlled substance. The woman was transported to the Dent County Jail where she was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. On Friday the 30th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop in the 9000 block of East Highway 32. At the traffic stop, a 29-year-old Salem man was arrested for having an active warrant through Dent County. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. That same day, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on Dent County Road 4120. During the course of the traffic stop, a 35-year-old Bunker man was arrested for driving while being intoxicated. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released to a family member. Still on the 30th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop in the 5000 block of West Highway 32. A 32-year-old Salem man was arrested for having active warrants through the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and for driving while having his license revoked or suspended. A woman was also arrested during the traffic stop for having active warrants through the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and Probation and Parole. Both the man and woman were transported to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. Finally, on Saturday July 31st, a deputy traveled to a residence in the 500 block of County Road 4180 to serve an arrest warrant. During the course of the incident, a 39-year-old Salem man was arrested for having an active warrant through Dent County. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. If anyone has information regarding any ongoing investigation, contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 729-3241.

An accident occurred Thursday night about 7:15 in Crawford County on Highway 19 one and-one-half miles south of Steelville. According to the Highway Patrol Report a southbound 2006 Ford Fusion, driven by 34-year-old Darren Brinkley of Steelville, traveled off the right side of the road and struck a pedestrian. The pedestrian, 40-year-old Matthew Gaghen of Steelville, suffered serious injuries and was transported by helicopter to Mercy in Creve Coeur. The report stated that Darren Brinkley was impaired and distracted. According to the report Brinkley was wearing a safety restraint when the accident occurred. The Ford sustained moderate damage and was removed from the scene by Miles Towing.

The South-Central Missouri Community Action Agency will hold a school readiness event this Saturday from 10:00 in the morning until 2:00 that afternoon. This will be a drive-through event to provide free school supplies to children. In order to speed up the line pre-registration is required, and parents or guardians of school age children can call 729-3500, Extension 10 to set up an appointment. You will need to bring social security cards for everyone in the household. Households with last names starting with A through L will pick up supplies from 10:00 until noon; then M through Z will be from 12:00 until 2:00. School supplies and backpacks are funded 100% at $34,000 with federal funds received from the US Department of Health and Human Services and Family Support Division, with other support provided by community partners in the Dent County Area.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray indicated materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 2470, while only grading would be done on county roads 5150, 5380 and 5580. He went on to say brush would be cut on county road 6090 and that roadside trash was having to be picked up along Dent Fords Road. If anyone sees a person or group dumping trash on county roads, do not try to stop them. Instead, contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 729-3241. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson said materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 3180 while only grading would be done on county roads 2050, 2060 and 6160. He added that brush was being cut on county road 3190. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said he attended the Missouri Association of Counties interview of six candidates for the Executive Director’s position last Tuesday. The entire MAC board will be meeting this week to vote on the new Executive Director. Skiles stated he will also attend the Transportation Advisory Committee meeting Thursday afternoon at the MRPC before attending two more meetings at the MRPC Thursday evening. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported her office balanced with the treasurer on all accounts for the month of July, and that her office along with the collector’s office and the assessor’s office balanced on all collections, add-ons and abatements for the month of July. She also reported she will be attending the MAC meetings on Wednesday through Friday. At the last meeting, Dent County Sheriff Bob Wells discussed the purchase of two new police vehicles that have been budgeted. The commission agreed on those vehicles being purchased. Later, Sheriff Wells wanted to seek financing bids for the lease/ purchase of a third vehicle that was not originally in the budget, for the state price of $37,801. The lease purchase they are seeking would be for three years with one payment per year. Wells says he will have enough money in the budget for the payment. The commission approved his request to put out for bids and they will be opened on Monday, August 16th at 10:00. Information and specifics can be found at the county clerk’s office. Dent County Assessor Jamie Homeyer came in to discuss with the commission about getting new plat books. She had stopped by Barton County and picked up a plat book they had created in house through the “Clear Basin” software the county uses. She said the plat books can be updated monthly and can be printed on the spot. The cost to make the plat book was $15 and it was sold to the public for $30. She said if the county wanted to do this in-house, the cost for using the “clear basin” software was $2,500 per year with a five-year commitment. The commission asked Homeyer if there was money in the budget for this and she thought there was. The commission made no decision on the plat book as they wanted to look through it more. 143rd District State Representative Ron Copeland was in attendance and said there was going to be a meeting next Monday on the Transportation Infrastructure bill being voted on in the Senate and how there is supposed to be additional money for broadband. He also said he and other representatives are working on a “Community Rural Development” group to help the rural areas with economic development or the seeking of economic improvements. He also said the new federal congressional districts will be released in September. The commissioners then opened bids for numerous pieces of old or no longer used county equipment that was at the county road and bridge department shed. A number of bids were received and when the winners were totaled, the amount the county was to receive was $18,055.75. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

On August 9th, Sheriff Bob Wells and Prosecutor Andrew M. Curley presented the sum of $4,410.93 to Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams to be placed into the general revenue fund for Dent County. The money is the result of efforts by law enforcement involving the seizure of cash and illegal firearms possessed in connection with the illegal use and/or the distribution of controlled substances. The seizure and sale occurred in connection with recent drug prosecutions that concluded in Dent County. The seizure and sale of the firearms is authorized by Missouri law as an additional punishment and deterrent to persons that illegally use or distribute controlled substances while in the possession of firearms. Further, money that is obtained through the illegal sale of controlled substances is subject to seizure and forfeiture. This money will be used for the benefit of the local community.

Registration for all Salem R-80 schools is now underway. William Lynch will be registering new students this Wednesday from 9:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon, and from noon until 6:00 Thursday. At the Salem Upper Elementary School, registration will be today and Wednesday from 9:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon, and on Tuesday and Thursday from noon until 6:00. These dates are for all students, both new and returning. Students that will be attending Salem Middle School and the high school must attend registration in August to receive their schedules and locker assignments. A parent or guardian must also attend and complete all district required enrollment forms. Registration for the middle school will be start today in the middle school cafeteria from 9:00 in the morning until 3:00 in the afternoon for new students who have not been registered in any Salem school in grades 6-8. Registration continues tomorrow for all students entering 8th grade, the 7th grade registration will be Wednesday, and for those needing to register for 6th grade, registration will be Thursday. Those who miss their scheduled registration days may register on Friday, August 13th. Students who will be attending high school will be able to register the same week in the lobby of the high school from 10:00 until 3:00 each day. Those who will be seniors can register Tuesday, juniors will register Wednesday, sophomores on Thursday and freshmen on Friday. Those in high school will receive their locker assignments only upon the return of all completed registration forms. Missouri state law requires the immunization of all school children. Students must be immunized against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, and hepatitis B with 3 doses for those in grades 7 through 12, unless an exemption has been signed by a physician and filed with the school. All students must present proof of compliance with the immunization rule by the first day of school but are encouraged to bring their record on enrollment day. This applies to all students, including transfer students. Parents should the Dent County Health Center if they have questions regarding required immunizations at 729-3106.

The Salem Police Department has released some reports. On Monday afternoon, July 12th, at around 2:00, an officer was sent to Wal-Mart for a report of shoplifting. It was reported that a woman had stolen approximately $10 worth of merchandise. Police made contact with the suspected subject and as a result of the investigation, a 30-year-old Salem woman was arrested and issued a summons for shoplifting. The next afternoon, the July 13th at 2:00, an officer was dispatched to the 800 block of West Glendale for a report of children playing in the street unsupervised. During the investigation, police made contact with a woman that had an active arrest warrant out of the Rolla Police Department. As a result, a 26-year-old Salem woman was arrested and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. During the afternoon of July 15th near 1:00, an officer was dispatched to the 100 block of West Fourth Street for a report of stealing. It was reported that $250 worth of tools were stolen from the area. That investigation is still ongoing. During the evening of Friday the 16th at approximately 7:30, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart for a report of a shoplifter who had fled the area. Contact was made with the suspected subject and the confirmation of her identity was obtained. During the investigation, items stolen from Wal- Mart were obtained along with illegal drugs possessed by the subject. As a result, a 31-year-old Salem woman was arrested and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. On Sunday, July 18th at around 12:30 in the morning, an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for failing to maintain a single lane of travel. Upon further investigation it was found the subject was under the influence of alcohol while operating the vehicle. As a result, a 59-year-old Salem woman was arrested and was summoned to appear in court. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding an ongoing investigation.

An accident occurred Saturday afternoon at 12:35 in Phelps County on Highway 8 at Phelps County Road 3450. According to the highway patrol report, a 2019 Ford Escape driven by 79- year-old Yvonne McEwen of St. James, was travelling westbound and travelled off the right side of the roadway, struck a culvert and then overturned. McEwen suffered serious injuries and was transported by EMS to Phelps Health. The Escape was totaled and removed by Spurgeon’s Towing. McEwen was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident.

An accident occurred Saturday evening at 7:40 in Maries County on Highway 63 just north of Maries County Road 327. According to the highway patrol report, a 2010 Kia Optima driven by 33-year-old Richard Butler of Rolla, was travelling southbound and tried to overtake an unknown vehicle. The Kia changed lanes and struck the front of the unknown vehicle, started skidding, travelled off the left side of the roadway, and struck a dirt embankment. The unknown vehicle continued southbound and left the scene. Two occupants of the Kia: 29-year- old Deanna Kiersten of Rolla and a 3-year-old juvenile male of Rolla, suffered minor injuries and were transported to Phelps Health Hospital by Maries Osage Ambulance. Butler was also transported to Phelps Health Hospital by Maries Osage Ambulance with no injuries. Everyone involved was wearing seat restraints at the time of the accident. The Kia sustained moderate damage and was removed by Plaza Towing.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released some reports for the latter part of July. On Tuesday, July 20th, the Dent County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a domestic disturbance that had occurred in the 1000 block of Route B. Deputies traveled to the location and during the course of the incident, a 35-year-old Salem man was arrested for domestic assault in the 3rd degree, three counts of endangering the welfare of a child in the 1st degree, a felony resisting arrest charge, assault in the 4th degree – special victim, and property damage in the 2nd degree. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. On Wednesday, July 21st, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on West Highway 32. During the traffic stop, a 32-year-old Salem man was arrested for driving while having his license revoked or suspended, a 2nd offense. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. On Friday, July 23rd, a deputy traveled to a residence in the 500 block of Route F to serve an arrest warrant. During the course of that incident, a 29-year-old Salem woman was arrested for having an active warrant through Rolla Police Department. She was transported to the Dent County Jail and was incarcerated. That same day, a deputy conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Dent County Roads 3273 and 3270. During the traffic stop, a 48-year-old Salem man was arrested for the possession of a controlled substance except for 35 grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid, and the unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail where he was incarcerated. Also arrested during the incident was a 38-year-old Salem woman for having active arrest warrants through Dent County. She was transported to the Dent County Jail and was incarcerated. If anyone has information regarding any open investigation, please call the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

The Ozark National Scenic Riverways is partnering with Shannon County Museum, Ozark Riverways Foundation, the Ozark Heritage Project, and the Dent County Historical Society to host a “Celebration of the River Community at Round Spring” this Saturday evening from 5:00 until 9:30 at the Round Spring picnic pavilion. Local families and organizations will set up booths and displays that highlight the fascinating history of the Round Spring area. Live performances, presentations, music, and tours will be conducted throughout the evening. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnic dinner and join in the festivities at this free outdoor event. Events scheduled from 5:00 until 5:30 will include Wildlife & Geology of the Round Spring Area presented by ONSR Park Rangers. From 5:30 until 6:00 Lennis Broadfoot Comes Alive will be presented by Twin Pines Conservation Education Center. Archeology on the upper Current River presented by Alan Banks will take place from 6:00 until 6:30 then from 6:30 until 7:00 the History of Round Spring Cave & Remembrance of Round Spring is being presented by John Stewart & Allen Ramsey. From 7:00 until 8:30 “Friend Pickin” will provide musical entertainment. And finishing out the evening a park ranger will present a program in the amphitheater from 8:30 until 9:15. All participants should be prepared to practice social distancing at this outdoor event. If you are not yet fully vaccinated, masks are required when social distancing cannot be maintained. Round Spring is located 12 miles north of Eminence on State Highway 19. For more information, contact the Round Spring Ranger Station at (573)323-8093.

Missouri State Parks invites the public to begin their archery journey by attending hands-on courses at Echo Bluff State Park. Course will be held tomorrow from 10:00 until noon, September 18th from 2:00 until 4:00, and October 16th from 10:00 until noon. Participants may register for the August course beginning July 3rd. This program is for anyone who wants to learn the basics of archery and atlatl throwing. The Learn2 Aim courses offer two hours of free instruction and are open to ages 10 and older. Registration is required and all slots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Missouri State Parks provides the equipment, including bows, atlatls, targets and expertise, in a safe environment. Participants should bring enthusiasm and a willingness to learn a historical skill. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toed shoes. Participants must be at least 10 years of age. Children 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Parents and guardians do not have to participate but must be on hand to provide adult supervision. Participants should be comfortable around bows and atlatls. All Missouri State Park rules and regulations apply. This is a family-oriented event; alcohol and tobacco products are not allowed while participating in the Learn2 Program. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. For more information or to register, go to mostateparks.com/learn2.

The City of Salem wants to remind anyone who is past due on their utility bill or has not yet made payment arrangements with the city, that you have until 5:00 TODAY to pay your bill or set up a payment plan. Disconnect notices carry a $25 charge for the first three disconnects and a $50 charge after that. Contact the city utility office at 729-4117 or stop by 400 North Iron Street to make a payment or to make payment arrangements. The hours are from 8:00 in the morning until 5:00 this afternoon. All previous month’s bills become past due and are subject to disconnect after the 5th of each month. The city also wants to remind everyone that you will find printed on your utility bill that it is your first and final notice. Remember, YOU are ultimately responsible for your utility bill, whether or not it comes in the mail.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors met Tuesday evening at 6:00 at the first station. After some discussion, the 2022 tax rate was set at $0.2377, which is the maximum allowed by law, and up from this year’s rate of $0.2374. After the tax levy hearing, the board approved the consent agenda and approved the minutes from the July meeting as presented. Bills were then reviewed and approved then the budget was reviewed which showed an ending balance as of July 31st of $169,923.57. There was no monthly reimbursement report at this meeting as the software is still being transferred and uploaded. In old business, Joe Weber from Weber and Associates was in attendance to answer any questions on the policy and procedures manual. The board is still reviewing the manual and Mr. Weber stated that he was available to answer any questions that may arise. In reports to the board, Chief Brad Nash reported that there was a problem with one of the door frames installed during the renovation. Cahill Construction will be onsite this week to check this out and repair, as necessary. Mike Godi discussed this year’s toy drive with the board that a place to store the toys is needed. The board will work on the problem and will get back with Mr. Godi. He also asked if the department was prepared for someone to replace Chief Nash in case something like COVID should happen to the chief. Chief Nash explained that he has plans in place in the event something like that should happen. The date was then set for the next meeting which will be Tuesday evening, September 7th at 6:00 at the Fire Station at #2 South Main Street.

A one vehicle accident happened Wednesday morning at around 7:20 in Dent County on Highway 68 about three miles north of Salem. According to the report released from the highway patrol, a 2003 Dodge Caravan being driven by 78-year-old Willaim Bingham of Centerville, was traveling north when he failed to negotiate a curve. The vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway, then struck a MoDOT sign and a utility pole. An occupant in the vehicle, 78-year-old Patsy Murphey of Centerville, suffered minor injuries but refused treatment at the scene. The Dodge sustained minor damage and was removed from the scene by Whitakers Towing. The report went on to state that Bingham and Murphey were both wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident.

An accident happened Tuesday evening just after 8:00 in Phelps County on Highway F about two miles south of Rolla. The report released from the highway patrol states that a 1993 Ford F-150 being driven by a 16-year-old juvenile male of Rolla was traveling west when he ran off the right side of the road and struck several trees. A passenger in the vehicle, 19-year-old Jakob Faulkner of Rolla, suffered minor injuries and was transported by ambulance to Phelps Health in Rolla. The report went on to state that the driver was wearing a safety restraint while the passenger was not. The Ford sustained moderate damage and was removed from the scene by C&C Towing.

To mark this year’s biggest summer meteor shower, Elephant Rocks State Park staff invites the public to a rare after-dark event at 8:00 this Friday. The Perseid Meteor Shower is caused by particles released by the Swift-Tuttle Comet and can be seen with the naked eye. Park staff will be available to direct visitors to the best and safest areas to view the shower. All are welcome and encouraged to dress for changeable summer conditions. It is often warmer on the rocks early in the evening as they radiate the heat they stored up in the hot summer sun all day. It then cools off as the night progresses, so be prepared to add layers as needed. Also be prepared to deal with insects like mosquitoes and ticks. Please remember to bring in only what you will be able to carry out when you leave. Trash receptacles are provided at the parking lot of the park. Participants are encouraged to be respectful of other visitors and to bring portable chairs and blankets to keep warm. Avoid excessive use of artificial lights and excessive noise during the event. No tents or other invasive camping equipment, such as propane heaters or lanterns, will be allowed. Absolutely no campfires will be allowed. Telescopes and binoculars are not needed to view the shower, but are welcome. Elephant Rocks State Park is located at 7406 Highway 21 in Belleview. For more information about the event, call the site at 573-546-3454.

The Salem Board of Aldermen held a regular meeting Monday at the City Hall Council Chambers. The board heard from Bill Parsons about an Octoberfest being planned for October 29th, 30th and 31st near the 4th Street Mall from Hickory to Water Street on 4th Street. He also discussed utility bills for a number of different addresses and asked the aldermen to check into these bills that appeared excessive. After the consent agenda was approved, the board discussed Bill #3485 to establish new electric rates for the City of Salem. Utility Committee Chairman Shawn Bolerjack discussed with the board and crowd how the rates were determined and the different options the city looked at before finally deciding on a 4.4% increase to cover the February cold weather incident that left the city with an additional 1.46 million-dollar bill. Since there were a lot of calculations, Bolerjack suggested tabling the passing of the bill until the next meeting so the aldermen will have more time to review the numbers. Public Works Director Mark Nash presented equipment lease and rental options that could take care of the growing waste problem out at the city yard waste disposal site at the industrial park as well as perform other functions for the city. He also had a one-time price from Philip Mercer of $3,200 to do the clean-up work, but the aldermen continued to insist that no dollars would be spent on major purchases until the financial audit is complete. With that being said, they authorized Nash to get bids for gates to seal off the area and a video security system for the waste disposal site. The board did approve a bid of $6,566 from Vandevanter Engineering to repair a lift pump in the city. Nash said the city needed to get another lift pump to have on hand in case another went out as it is getting hard to get the parts in to repair these units and they should have the same type of lift pumps in all of the lift stations. The board again said they would not spend any money on capital improvements until the audited financial statements have been submitted. City Administrator Ray Walden wanted to thank Catherine Dent for volunteering to call people who had utility bills past due to come in and get a payment plan set up. He said the current utility bills for consumption for the June 15th through July 15th time period were mailed out last week. If you have not received your bill by Wednesday, please contact the utility office. Walden said anyone who is still past due on their previous utility bills need to have them paid off or have a plan in place by 5:00 this Thursday afternoon to avoid having their utilities shut-off on Friday, August 6th. Walden stated the contractors for the sewer line extension on Route J and Highway 72 to the hospital will begin work this week near the hospital. Walden also said the City of Salem will be eligible for $992,000 in ARPA funds and he suggested the city prioritize what projects should be addressed with that money and get public input. The city must commit by September 1st to receive the funds and Walden asked the aldermen to consider this at their next meeting on August 16th. The board then went into closed session.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released some reports for the middle of July. On July 16th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of East 7th Street and Young Street. During the traffic stop, a 20-year-old Salem man and a 44-year-old Salem man were arrested for active warrants through Dent County. Both men were taken to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. Also arrested during the traffic stop was a 21-year-old Salem woman for operating a vehicle on a highway without a valid license, a 1st offense. The woman was transported to the Dent County Jail where she was fingerprinted, issued a summons and released. That same day, a deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle on East Fourth Street. The vehicle failed to yield to the deputy’s patrol vehicle’s emergency lights and siren. The vehicle was finally stopped at the intersection of North Russell Street and East 3rd Street. During the investigation of the traffic stop, a 23-year-old Salem man was arrested for resisting or interfering with an arrest, detention or stop, the possession of a controlled substance except for 35 grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid, the unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, operating a motor vehicle in a careless and imprudent manner, and failure to register the motor vehicle annually with Missouri Department of Revenue. The man was taken to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. On Sunday, July 18th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on Dent County Road 2340. During the traffic stop, a 40-year-old Cook Station man was arrested for a felony driving while having their license suspended charge. The man was transported to the Dent County Jail and incarcerated. On Monday, the 19th of July, a deputy traveled to a location in the 1600 block of West Highway 32 to serve an arrest warrant. During the course of the incident, a 42-year-old Salem man was arrested for having an active warrant through Dent County. He was transported to the Dent County Jail and was incarcerated. If anyone has information regarding an ongoing investigation, please call the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 729-3241.