November 2024

Lady Trojans double numbers
The Southwest girls basketball team has doubled its roster from last year, embarking on a season without no seniors and under new management. Shawn Johnson, former assistant coach in his first year as head coach, said he brings 23 years as a coach, including 13 in JV or junior high basketball and 10 in varsity softball, and he’s excited to see what the Lady Trojans can do this season.
News Briefs, Nov. 27
The Purdy Christmas Parade will be on Dec. 7 at 10 a.m., with line-up at the Purdy High School parking lot by 9:30 a.m.

Kyle Troutman: My double rainbow
As I left the office at about 4:50 p.m. Monday, a bright, orange haze had set in from the west following an afternoon of rainstorms.

A little rain, a lot of bow!
Rainstorms on Monday afternoon moved through at dusk, resulting in a large, vibrant double rainbow arching over Cassville to the southwest. The scene lasted about 10-15 minutes, with many residents stopping to take photos of the light show. Kyle Troutman/ktroutman@cassville- democrat.com

Haven of the Ozarks Pet of the Week, Nov. 20
Chardonnay is a beautiful Retriever mix with gorgeous blue eyes. We know her mom is a flat coated Retriever. Chardonnay and 8 siblings were born on Sept. 29. Come get your pick of this beautiful litter.

Jon Horner: Giving thanks for gratitude
I’ve always loved Thanksgiving Day — it is one of those traditions that has meant a lot to me and my family throughout my 61 years on this planet. One of the reasons for my warm feelings for this day are the fond memories from Thanksgivings in the past.

Purdy students feed families in need
Students in Amy Harkey’s Prostart I & II Courses at Purdy High School prepared and distributed 250 healthy, complete meals of chicken and vegetable fried rice for families in their community last week. The meals, prepared through the Kids Feeding Kids program, were donated to families served by Purdy Prostart I students.

Lady Wildcats bring back 8 letterwinners
With eight of the Lady Wildcats’ nine letterwinners from the 2023-2024 season returning to the fold, the Cassville girls basketball team has its sights set on being the first team above .500 since 2017-2018.

Roaring River Cave possibly home to unique species
Verification of unique species could come with naming rights Based on genetic testing, there’s a “high probability” that Roaring River Spring Cave is home to a unique species of amphipod. Dr.
Bingo Night to fund trade scholarship
Third-year Missouri Southern State University student and math major Zane Smith, of Wheaton, has plans to establish a scholarship for Barry County high school students entering a trade program. Initial fundraising will begin with a “Bingo Night,” scheduled for 6 p.m.