News Briefs, May 15

Lawrence and Barry County Democrats meeting set

Lawrence and Barry County Democrats will meet on May 23 at the Angus Branch Steakhouse, located at 114 Chapel Drive in Monett. The meeting will start at 7 p.m. Those wishing to eat should arrive by 5:305:45 p.m., with each responsible for their own meal expense. Guest speakers will include two area candidates for State Representative: Jeremy Dean from the 132nd in Springfield, and Rebecca Jensen, from the 160th District in Newton County. The group also hopes to have Yma Sautbine from the 158th District in Barry County. There will be reports from the group’s two scholarship award presentations, and discussion on fundraising events for Missi Hesketh in the U.S. 7th District Congressional race. All area Democrats and like-minded friends are invited and encouraged to attend. For more information, people may call Jim Kabell at 417-848-4640.

Bowens named Farm Family of the Year

The University of Missouri Barry County Extension office wants to congratulate Justin and Amanda Bowen on being named the 2024 Farm Family of the Year. They will be honored at the 2024 Missouri State Fair Family Day.

Antioch Cemetery meeting upcoming

The 2024 Annual Meeting of Antioch Cemetery will take place on May 26 at 2 p.m. at the cemetery grounds. All members and interested parties are invited to attend. Please email Teresa Phillips at antiochcemetery@ yahoo.com with any questions.

Blood Drive in Cassville Friday

The American Red Cross will host a blood drive in Cassville on Friday from noon to 4 p.m. at Cassville United Methodist Church, located at 601 Gravel St. Those who donate will receive a coupon by mail for a free haircut at Sport Clips Haircuts and will be entered into a drawing for a VIP racing experience at the NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Races at Darlington Raceway on Labor Day weekend. Donors will also receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. More details may be found at redcrossblood.org/racetogive.

Corinth Cemetery annual meeting set

The Corinth Cemetery Association will hold its annual meeting on May 22 at 6:30 p.m. at the cemetery shelter.

Williams to retire from library

Cheryl Williams, branch supervisor at the Cassville Branch Library, is retiring. A celebration of Williams’ service to the library will be held on May 31 from noon to 5:30 p.m.

Old Church Gallery Farmers’ Market open for season

The Old Church Gallery Farmers’ Market runs every Thursday from 8 to 11 a.m. The market has farm fresh produce, flowers, eggs, jams, relishes, baked goods, handmade crafts and more. Selection varies every week, so come early for the best choice. Old Church Gallery is on Farm Road 1240 in Shell Knob and can be reached at 417-858-2510.

Charlie 22 Outdoors launching Operation Little Flat Creek

Charlie 22 Outdoors, dedicated to helping veterans connect with the outdoors, is seeking applications for Operation Flat Creek, which encompasses three sessions and two fishing day. Session I is June 18-20, with applications due by Saturday; Session II is July 9-11, with applications due by June 9; and Session III will be in November, with exact dates and deadlines to be determined. There will also be two fishing days, on April 23 and on May 16. The sessions, hosted by Little Flat Creek Ranches in Barry County, are all-expenses-paid adventures for veterans, Gold Star families and families who have lost a loved one to PTSD. Operation Little Flat Creek will be held at a 17-acre lake stocked with largemouth bass, blue gill and catfish. Other activities include watching wildlife, enjoying the creek, ATV rides, property tours and more. The lodge offers an ideal place for rest and relaxation, and spouses, children and parents of veterans are welcome. Wheelchair accessibility is also an option. To apply, people may visit www.charlie22outdoors.com. For more information, people may email charlie22outdoors@gmail.com or call 417-437-7247. Volunteer guide opportunities are available, as are veteran sponsorships.

Cassville Branch Library activities scheduled

Activities at the Cassville Branch Library this week include: Thursday, Tot Time at 9 a.m. (registration required), Story Time at 10 a.m. (registration required), Adult Canvas Tote painting at 6 p.m. ($5 registration required); Friday, Pre-teen and Teen Painting at 4 p.m. (registration required); May 22, Tin Can Planters from 10 a.m. to noon, while supplies last; May 23, Adult Wood Slab Flags at 5 p.m. ($5 registration required). For more information on any programs, people may call 417847-2121. The library is located at 301 W. 17th St. in Cassville.

OATS rides available in Barry County

OATS Transit offers regular transportation services for the rural general public of any age, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Please call the local OATS Transit office at 417-887-9272 or 800-7706287 to schedule a ride or find out about services in the Barry County area. People may also visit the OATS website at oatstransit.org to view local schedules under “Bus Schedules,” then click on the county of service. OATS offices will be closed, and regular routes will not be running on Feb. 20 for Presidents’ Day. Please keep this in mind as trips are scheduled near these holidays. OATS Transit is hiring drivers statewide to can continue serving riders. Openings are listed on the OATS website.

Lessons offered before Seligman’s Saturday dances

The Seligman Chamber of Commerce country dances at the Seligman Chamber Event Center are every Saturday from 7-10 p.m. No alcohol is allowed. Admission is $10 per person, and 18-and-under are free. There is a potluck, 50-50 drawing and door prizes. Free dance lessons will also be given from 5-6 p.m. For more information, people may call 479-9033640.