September 2026
News Briefs, Sept. 23
The Imagination Library of Barry County will host Dream Like Dolly Day on Friday, inviting people to honor the legacy of Dolly Parton, who started the Imagination Library, by giving, sharing or helping a child enroll.

Whitcomb celebrates a century
Chuck Whitcomb, of Cassville, celebrated his 100th birthday on Sept. 3 with a celebration at the Show Me Plaza in Cassville.

Staff View — Sheila Harris: Despoiling our virtues
I talk about Iowa a lot, because it’s the beloved stage where my childhood was played out: The place I go back to in my mind and heart when I need a reprieve from the details and deadlines in front of me.
Letter to the Editor — Mark Rhine: Thanks to local company, power of prayer
It was a Saturday, and not just any Saturday — it was a Labor Day weekend, with the kind of heat outside that seemed almost unbearable.
Letter to the Editor — Jeanette Johnson: Mid-term election about form of government
Thank you for expressing your concerns about politics and inviting us to express our opinions, a wonderful part of our Bill of Rights.

Community Voices — Merlyn Johnson: New grading system coming to Missouri
Missouri is moving forward with a new A-F School and District Grading Framework designed to give parents and the public a simplified picture of academic performance.

Through the Years, Sept 23
30 YEARS AGO: HOOPIN' IT UP — The Rotary Club sponsored a Hoop-It-Up 3-on-3 basketball tournament last Saturday. During the tournament, 28 teams competed on four courts simultaneously.

Haven of the Ozarks Pet of the Week, Sept. 23
Hi, I’m John Bee, a striking black and white kitten ready to take on the world! At just 3 months old, I’m an adventurous and energetic little guy who’s already litter box trained — one less thing to worry about.

Peggy Ann Van Gorkom
Peggy Ann Van Gorkom, age 79, of Cassville, Missouri, passed away Sunday, September 13, 2026 at her home. She was born January 8, 1947 in Fort Dodge, Iowa, the daughter…

Lori Renee Marrs
Lori Renee Marrs, age 60, of Cassville, Missouri, passed away Saturday, September 12, 2026 at Cox Medical Center South in Springfield, Missouri. She was born January 21, 1966 at Baptist…




