Local News – Thursday, September 23rd, 2021
The Dent County Health Center Board of Trustees meeting September 16th continued following the closed session. Health Center Administrator Zach Moser discussed his findings relative to the Emergency Rural Health Care Grant and presented proposals for the usage of the funds. Ideas presented included development of a mobile vaccination unit, which would probably be a van, purchase and renovation of additional property, and renovation of current property. The Board passed a motion approving Moser to contact MRPC to assist with the application process since they are due in October and to move forward with the mobile vaccination unit and renovations/improvements to the current building. Moser reported that he learned of a federal program that would cover the administration cost for the Health Center for COVID vaccines and testing. The Board approved the purchase of a Square register for point of sale and to switch from Court Money to Square as the credit card processor. Zach reported that a statewide standing order for Regeneron Monoclonal Antibodies for COVID-19 has been approved and that Dr. Prince has signed off on the Health Center providing the service. The limiting factor conduct the treatment is space and currently no space is available. The Board considered the 1-year lease of 1006 E. Scenic Rivers Boulevard, which had expired at the end of August. The Board voted to terminate the lease and expressed their appreciation of the lessees. It was noted that the future plans when the building was purchased was to expand into that portion of the building. Health Center expenses for August were approved and the next regular Board meeting was set for October 21st.
Step back in time at the Dent County Museum Sunday afternoon from 1:00 until 4:00 at 400 North Pershing in Salem. You are invited to come view the donated items that tell the story of Dent County. There will be a special event at 1:00 as a tree is dedicated to former board member James Coffman. Stop by for cookies and lemonade as the museum celebrates the last opening of the season.
Ozark National Scenic Riverways has a variety of great trails for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can explore trails independently or can participate in several ranger-led hiking events planned throughout the fall. Social distancing will be encouraged during ranger-led hikes. For hikes where shuttles are offered, masks will be required for visitors on the shuttles. On Saturday, September 25th, beginning at 10 that morning a 4.3-mile hike will explore three trail loops south of Big Spring, where you’ll experience beautiful scenery while learning about the cultural history of the original Big Spring State Park. Meet at the Chubb Hollow pavilion, just south of the Big Spring Lodge and Cabins on State Route Z. Plan accordingly when hiking or participating in any outdoor recreational activity. Hikers should take weather conditions into consideration and be prepared during all seasons. Drinking water, rain gear, map, snacks, flashlight, sturdy hiking shoes, clothing appropriate for the weather and terrain, and emergency campfire supplies are recommended. Always remember to inform someone of your plans. For more information about any of the hikes, contact Skyler Bockman at (573) 323-8093 or visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/ozar.
An accident happened in Washington County at 6:05 Wednesday evening on Highway 185 about a quarter of a mile south of Goose Creek Road. According to the highway patrol report, a 2002 Hyundai driven by 39-year-old Thomas Blake of Rolla, traveled off the right side of the road edge and then returned to the roadway where Blake overcorrected. The Hyundai then traveled back off the right side of the right road edge and overturned. Blake suffered moderate injuries and was taken by ambulance to the Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan. The Hyundai was totaled and was removed by Chuck’s Towing from the scene.