News – Monday, August 4th 2025

The Salem Parks & Recreation Department regrets to inform everyone that the City Pool will be closed until further notice due to mechanical issues. Their new pump is currently experiencing problems, and the backup pump has not been repaired. They understand how disappointing this is during the peak of summer, and they have a team is working to reopen the pool as soon as possible. For more information you can visit the Salem MO Parks & Recreation Department Facebook page or call (573) 729-6290.

The Salem Public Library will be closed tomorrow for staff development. They will reopen on Wednesday at 10:00 in the morning and resume their normal hours of operation. To learn more about the library or utilize their online resources visit their website at SalemPublicLibrary.net.

The Salem Police Department released two arrest reports from July 28th. In the first report, a patrolman and sergeant from the Salem Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the 1300 block of West Scenic Rivers Boulevard. The Officers identified the driver as Steven McCarter and discovered McCarter did not have a valid driver’s license. A consent search of the vehicle was conducted which yielded no contraband. As a result of the traffic stop, McCarter was issues a summons and was taken into custody for driving while having their license revoked or suspended, a second or subsequent offense. According to the second report, a short-term, narcotics investigation brought three patrolmen and a sergeant to the 600 block of South Jackson Street. The police made contact was made with a suspect, Deseray Fish. During the investigation, the police located suspected fentanyl. As a result, Fish was taken into custody and was transported to the Dent County Jail where she is being held. A probable cause statement was filed with the office of the Dent County Prosecutor, Andrew Curley. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney James Weber filed a felony complaint in the Circuit Court of Dent County. The Honorable Judge Nathan Kelsaw issued a $10,000 cash or surety bond warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance. The suspects in each case are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will once again have a strong presence at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia, running from August 7th through August 17th. Located inside the MDC Conservation Building, open daily from 9:00 in the morning to 7:00, visitors can view a variety of native fish and wildlife, including snakes, turtles, and amphibians. The building will also feature vibrant displays of Missouri-native plants that support butterflies, bees, and other critical pollinators. MDC staff will be on hand throughout the fair to answer questions, provide educational materials, and engage with the public about conservation issues affecting the state. One of the highlights of MDC’s involvement is “Missouri Department of Conservation Day,” taking place Friday, August 8th. The day will feature special programs, live demonstrations, and hands-on activities that celebrate Missouri’s natural heritage. Throughout the fair, the MDC Outdoor Pavilion will host an array of interactive demonstrations. These include the popular Raptors of Missouri presentation by Dickerson Park Zoo, where attendees can see live birds of prey up close. Fish cooking and cleaning demonstrations will be held August 8th and 9th, offering tasty insights into Missouri’s aquatic resources. Fairgoers can also learn how to combat invasive species during a special exhibit on the MoDOT lawn, adjacent to the pavilion. On August 11th visitors can discover how to get involved with MDC’s volunteer programs such as Stream Teams and the Missouri Master Naturalists. Conservation Canines will take center stage August 12th and 13th showcasing how dogs assist with wildlife efforts. A working scale model sawmill will be demonstrated on August 14th, giving attendees a glimpse into the state’s forest history. Rounding out the week are sessions on foraging for wild edibles on August 15th, a visit from the Montauk Fish Hatchery truck on August 16th, and a campfire cooking demonstration on August 17th to close out the fair. Whether you’re interested in native wildlife, outdoor skills, or getting involved in conservation, MDC’s presence at the Missouri State Fair offers something for all ages and interests. For full event details and scheduling, visit mostatefair.com.