Local News – Thursday, December 27th, 2018
The Dent County Health Center Board of Trustees met Monday night, December 17th at the Health Center. Assistant Administrator Roma Jones reported there were 32 clients who received outpatient lab services in November. She said flu shots are still available at the Health Center on a walk-in basis and they will bill most insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. Jones stated the Staff Incentive Day will be Friday, January 11th and the Health Center will close at noon that day. Jones also said that one case of Salmonellosis and two cases of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever were investigated in November. The board approved the Health Center Administrative Manual, which included updates to the emergency calling tree and the Deputy Registrar list. The Personnel Manual was also approved by the board with a holiday date correction and a change to employee health insurance to 30 hours worked per week instead of 3/5 time to match ACA guidelines. The next meeting of the Board of Trustees was set for Monday, January 28th at 5:00.
The Ozark National Scenic Riverways and Missouri State Parks will be hosting the third annual Winter Paddling Clinic and First Day Float from December 30th through January 1st. The Winter Paddling Clinic will be held at Echo Bluff State Park on December 30 and 31 in conjunction with their New Year’s Eve Celebration. On January 1st paddling club members from St. Louis, Springfield, and Kansas City will celebrate the New Year with a float on the Current or Jacks Fork Rivers and will gather at Current River State Park for a bonfire and warm beverages. All are invited to attend this free paddling clinic and join the paddling clubs for float opportunities on New Year’s Day. Those who would like to make lodging reservations at Echo Bluff State Park can call their reservation desk at 844-322-3246. Millions of floaters enjoy Missouri rivers each year from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Experienced paddlers continue to visit our rivers in September and October, but paddling activity can continue during the winter months with the right equipment and a few simple precautions. Winter paddling offers several advantages. For more information about the Winter Paddling Clinic and First Day Float opportunities, contact Ranger Dave Tobey at 573-323-8093 or dave_tobey@nps.gov. For the complete schedule of events for December 30th through January 1st, visit the Ozark National Scenic Riverways at www.nps.gov/ozar.
Dent County Collector Dennis Medlock reminds tax payers the hours the Dent County Collector’s Office have been extended for today, Friday and Monday, New Year’s Eve from 8:00 in the morning until 5:30 in the evening. If you mail your taxes in on New Year’s Eve, your taxes MUST be postmarked December 31st, 2018. Otherwise, you could be responsible for a late payment and interest. You can also drop off your payment in the drop box in the front southwest corner of the courthouse lawn. Again, that needs to be dropped off before midnight, December 31st. You can also pay your taxes online. Refer to your tax bill on instructions on how to pay online. There are additional fees associated with paying your bill online. If you have any questions, please call the Dent County Collector’s Office at 729-3911.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol, encourages everyone to make good decisions regarding their New Year’s celebration. A traffic crash or jail cell would be an unfortunate way to begin 2019. Last year over the 2018 New Year’s Holiday counting period, nine people died and 291 people were injured in 845 traffic crashes. Thus, a person was killed or injured every 15.6 minutes during that time frame. Many Missourians will plan special events to welcome 2019. Everyone knows a successful event includes planning, and the most important details should focus on the safety of every guest. As you drive to your New Year’s celebration, remember to buckle up and make sure all your passengers do the same. Remember that you are transporting special cargo, so pay attention and obey all traffic laws. Be a courteous driver: When in doubt, yield the right-of-way. Be sure to use your turn signal to communicate your intentions. The posted speed limit reflects the roadway’s classification and is not a suggestion! There’s no reason to speed—the party starts after you arrive safely. Driving is a responsibility you should take seriously. If your plans include alcohol, remember that nothing ruins a party like a DWI arrest or a drinking-related traffic crash on your way home. If you’re driving, you should be the designated driver. Otherwise, make sure your group has one before you get to the party. The roadway is no place for a driver who has been drinking. If you cause a traffic crash, your New Year might begin with being arrested, facing legal fees and medical bills, and perhaps jail time! You could lose your license and will have to face your family and friends. If you kill or injure someone, you’ll pay the price for the rest of your life. No one wants to begin 2019 in jail. Be smart! Designate a sober driver or take a taxi. Before you travel, check road conditions by calling 1-888-275-6636. Allow extra time during inclement weather or consider staying home. Remember: Missouri law states if you’re using your windshield wipers, your headlights must be turned on. The only 100 percent survivable traffic crash is the one that never happens. Make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint.