Today, the City of Dexter officially received Missouri Blue Shield designation from the Missouri Department of Public Safety. This prestigious honor recognizes Missouri communities that demonstrate a steadfast commitment to enhancing public safety and supporting law enforcement.
The Missouri Blue Shield Program, created by Governor Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25-03, recognizes local governments that make significant efforts to reduce crime, foster law enforcement collaboration, and build strong community partnerships for public safety.
“Public safety is the foundation of a thriving community and state. It affects everything from families feeling secure to businesses having the confidence to invest and grow,” said Governor Kehoe. “We designed the Missouri Blue Shield Program to recognize communities that go above and beyond in creating a place where people want to live, work, and build their futures. A Missouri Blue Shield designation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of local governments across Missouri who are leading the way in making public safety a priority.”
“The Department of Public Safety is proud to work alongside communities like Dexter, that have shown exceptional dedication to enhancing public safety,” said Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS). “This program is about fostering collaboration between local law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. Our goal is to support these efforts, providing resources and guidance to help communities build sustainable, long-term solutions for crime reduction and public safety.”
“The City of Dexter is honored to receive the Missouri Blue Shield designation and truly appreciates Governor Kehoe’s recognition of our efforts,” said Mayor Mark Snider. “This designation reflects the hard work and dedication of our highly respected law enforcement personnel, and we look forward to continuing our work with all law enforcement agencies to make our city, county, and state a safer place to live.”
“Dexter’s commitment to public safety is rooted in our strong partnerships with law enforcement at all levels,” said David Wyman, City Administrator. “Together, we work to build trust, ensure accountability, and create a safer community for everyone. Joining Governor Kehoe’s Missouri Blue Shield Program reaffirms our pledge to continue these efforts.”
“The Dexter Police Department is incredibly honored to be recognized as part of the Missouri Blue Shield Program,” said Police Chief Hank Trout. “It’s a privilege to be part of an initiative that supports law enforcement and acknowledges the dedication of those who serve our communities. This program provides us with opportunities to enhance the training and equipment that are essential to our department’s success. The strong support we receive from our community and local leaders plays a big role in helping us keep our city safe for everyone who lives and works here.”
Eligibility and Program Details
Communities are eligible for a Missouri Blue Shield designation based on their dedication to reducing crime, making substantial investments in public safety, and developing strong collaboration with law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders. Each participating community’s commitment will be reviewed annually to ensure continued alignment with the program’s goals.
Participation Incentives
Communities that earn a Missouri Blue Shield designation will receive grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment as part of Governor Kehoe’s Recommended Budget for the State Fiscal Year 2026. Communities will also be featured on Governor Kehoe’s social media pages as well as the DPS website to highlight their participation in the program.
About Dexter
The City of Dexter earned a Missouri Blue Shield designation due to its exceptional commitment to public safety. Through strategic investments, strong interagency partnerships, and meaningful public involvement in safety efforts, the community has demonstrated a strong and ongoing commitment to protecting its residents. This designation affirms the City of Dexter’s effort to create a safer, more secure environment for all who live and work here.
Pictured in the photo above from left to right are City Administrator Mr. Dave Wyman, City Police Chief Mr. Hank Trout, and City of Dexter Mayor Mr. Mark Snider.
Kicks off multi-day clinics providing oral healthcare exams for veterans
Mark your calendar to attended the Groundbreaking Ceremony for a new and expanded clinic at The Lighthouse Church. Recently announced, The Lighthouse Church will soon have additional operatories to accommodate patients who have no access to quality oral healthcare.
“Many of our veterans and others have no insurance and lack the resources for dental care,” explained Kevin De Arman. “We know how important oral healthcare is to overall health and well-being for our patients.”
In collaboration with faculty, staff and students at the St. Louis Dental Center, a community health center founded by A.T. Still University-Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-MOSDOH) in partnership with Affinia Healthcare, multiple clinics over a period of days will welcome veterans at no cost thanks to funding made possible by generous donors, ATSU-MOSDOH, and Affinia Healthcare.
"Our services are critical because only 15% of veterans are eligible for dental care through the Veterans Administration ," emphasized Herbert Silva, DMD, ATSU-MOSDOH assistant professor, comprehensive care director, and leader of the Dentures for Veterans Project at the St. Louis Dental Center. “When veterans are no longer in pain and can smile again, they are more likely to engage with work, family, and socialization. These meaningful connections can prevent isolation and desperation.”
By the numbers, to date, more than 1,500 veterans have been screened and treated, and over 660 veterans have received more than 1300 full and partial dentures – at no cost to the recipient veteran.
WHO: Confirmed Speakers
Sr. Pastor & Board President—Tim Russell
Dental Minister & Board member— Kevin DeArman
Board member & Construction Company CEO— Rick Shipman
ADA 2025 Humanitarian of the Year & Chief Dentist @ Smiles of Hope—Dr William Kane
ATSU Professor—Dr Herb Silva
Additional VIPS and Elected Officials
INFO: For more information, please call Kevin De Arman 573.621.2593
REGISTER AND SUPPORT @ SmilesOfHope.com
SUPPORT VETERANS @ atsu.edu/support-mosdoh-vets
About The Lighthouse Church
Smiles of Hope was birthed through a vision of wanting to reach out to those that have a need for dental services but couldn't afford the costs. Our clinic began in a mobile facility with very limited resources in 2010. We have been blessed to expand into our own dedicated dentistry suite provided by Lighthouse Church. Further expansion is on the way as we begin work on a 33-chair dental clinic addition.
About A.T. Still University of Health Sciences
Established in 1892 by A.T. Still, DO, the founder of osteopathic medicine, A.T. Still University of Health Sciences (ATSU) began as the nation’s first college of osteopathic medicine and has evolved into a leading university of health sciences comprised of a growing community with a rich history in education and osteopathic healthcare. Today, ATSU offers certificate and master’s degrees across health disciplines; doctorates in athletic training, audiology, health administration, education, health sciences, medical science, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, dental medicine, and osteopathic medicine.
About St. Louis Dental Center
The St. Louis Dental Center, located at 1500 Park Ave. in the Lafayette Square neighborhood, is a state-of-the-art 79,000- square-foot clinical education facility with 101 dental chairs. Dental care is provided for the St. Louis community by Affinia Healthcare dentists and staff and ATSU-MOSDOH faculty and dental students. To learn more about St. Louis Dental Center services and schedule an appointment, call 314.833.2758. Please visit stldentalcenter.org or Facebook.com/stldental.center.
WHEN: Friday April 4, 2025
WHERE: The Lighthouse Church Clinic
The City of Dexter has announced the retirement of longtime City Attorney Yewell “Bud” Lawrence, who has served the city with dedication and distinction for over 38 years. Mr. Lawrence will officially retire on March 31st, leaving behind a legacy of legal expertise, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the city and its residents.
During his tenure, Mr. Lawrence has played a pivotal role in guiding the city through complex legal matters, ensuring sound governance, and protecting the city’s interests. He has been instrumental in shaping key policies, overseeing legal compliance, and providing trusted counsel to city leadership, as well as serving as the prosecutor within the city court.
“Bud Lawrence has been an invaluable asset to our city, and we are deeply grateful for his many years of service,” said Mayor Mark Snider. “His knowledge, professionalism, and dedication have left a lasting impact, and we wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”
City Administrator David Wyman echoed the mayor’s comments, “Bud Lawrence has been a fixture in the management of the City of Dexter for decades. This level of loyalty and devotion is rare in today’s workforce. We have been very blessed to have had him helping the city for this length of time. We are losing a tremendous amount of institutional knowledge and experience.”
Moving forward, the City Council has opted to hire two attorneys to manage the legal matters for Dexter. Lifelong Dexter resident, Joe Satterfield, will assume the role of prosecutor for the city court. In addition, the city attorney position will be filled by Cameron Parker, whose office is located in Risco, MO. Both attorneys have accomplished legal backgrounds and experience in municipal law.
Both of the attorneys hired bring a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to public service. According to Wyman, “The city is very honored to hire both Satterfield and Parker. I am confident that they are both looking forward to serving the city, working alongside our city officials, and ensuring that they uphold the highest legal and ethical standards. The Council made an excellent decision, and I believe our two new employees will be valuable additions to the city workforce. The primary goals of our city workforce are to provide safety, health, and welfare for our citizens. Cameron and Joe will definitely help us achieve those goals.”
Cameron Parker will officially assume her new position on April 1, 2025. Joe Satterfield will officially assume his position on August 1, 2025.
The Friends of the Keller Library will host March Into Spring Dinner on March 30, 2025 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Lunch Box.
The Lunch Box is located at 23 W. Stoddard St. Dexter, Missouri.
This will be a ham dinner with dressing, potato, veggies, dessert and drink.
Dine-in, drive thru and carry out available.
Cost is $15.00 per plate.
This is a fundraiser for the Keller Library. The Friends of the Keller Library invites the public to come out and eat and enjoy some great company!
Pictured left to right: Candy Collier, Kay Asbell, Brenda Chrisman. Sherry Medler, Anna Loughary, Andrienne White, Sandy Stone and Tara Mouser.
