Purdy school board studies facility needs
The Purdy school board reviewed pressing facilities needs and updates on operations at its September meeting.
Kyle Troutman: Enjoying the ride

Growing up playing soccer, there was not much that beat getting a hat trick (scoring three goals in the same game), and even though my field now is less grass and more ink, there are still hat tricks to be had.
Jabben retires from Barry County E9-1-1

Carrie Jabben has retired from the Barry County E9-1-1, serving nearly 18 years with dispatch and the Barry County Sheriff’s Office. “I sincerely appreciate the nearly 18 years that Carrie dedicated herself to the Barry County E9-1-1 Center,” said Mike Phillips, Center director. “She has helped many people over those years, and I appreciate all of her contributions.” Jabben, right, is pictured accepting a certificate of appreciation from Phillips.
Michelle Hilburn: Fall into season’s readings

Even though summer temperatures are still lingering, the calendar says that fall has arrived, and I couldn’t be happier.
Haven of the Ozarks Pet of the Week, Oct. 22

Meet beautiful Burrito! Burrito was found abandoned in the Cassville Walmart parking lot. So many people tried to help her, but she was still waiting for her person, who sadly never came back. Finally, one young lady offered her a burrito, and she got right in her car.
Cassville teacher recognized by MOSHAPE organization

The Cassville school district has announced that Cassville High School Teacher Erin Flehmer has been selected as the 2025 Physical Education Teacher of the Year for the Southwest District by the Missouri Society of Health and Physical Educators (MOSHAPE).
Herrin Animal Hospital earns accreditation from top vet association
The Herrin Animal Hospital has announced that it has achieved the highest level of veterinary excellence following evaluation by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).
Wheaton Heritage Festival provides interactive history lesson

The second annual Wheaton Heritage Festival, organized by the Wheaton Historical Society and Depot Museum, was held Oct. 11. Spokesperson Chris Hay called the event a success. 'We had a lot more people in attendance this year than we did last year,' Hay said. 'We may even have made a little money.' The event featured local vendors, musicians, activities for kids and craftsmen who demonstrated skills and machinery from years past.
Greg Armstrong: Guardrails in our lives

I love living in the Ozarks. The beauty of our little slice of America is hard to beat. One thing that comes with the territory is curvy roads.
Cassville runners compete at home, in area races

The Cassville cross country teams have competed in multiple races in recent weeks, including at the Cassville Pinkout XC Invitational at the Cassville Aquatic Center. Results include: 17th Annual Lamar Tigers Cross Country Invitational Varsity Boys — 3.1 miles, Top 25 medal, 112 runners 6th as a team Jacob Hudson, 18:20, 13th Trever Garnett, 18:34, 17th Peyton Anderson, 21:12, 66th Donovan Mikesh, 21:46, 70th Jarrett Paul, 23:37, 88th Vincent Buttrum, 25:15, 97th Clay Williamson, 26:03, 99th Daniel Sledden, 26:21, 100th Varsity Girls — 3.1 miles, Top 25 medal, 80 runners 7th as a team Kayli Anderson, 23:06, 22nd Lydia Cupps, 24:42, 37th Claire Reuter, 26:15, 50th Molly Cox, 26:25, 53rd Leah Walker, 31:26, 73rd



