Merlyn Johnson: New school year on the horizon

The Board of Education and staff at Cassville R-IV are excited about the upcoming academic year that is already filled with optimism, energy and opportunity.
Man charged with 3 felonies in child sex crimes case
A Monett man has been charged with three felonies for alleged child sex crimes.
Guillermo “Willie” Parra Moreno

Guillermo “Willie” Parra Moreno, 58, of Monett, Mo. passed away Sunday, July 27, 2025, at home.
Barry County Neighborhood Center to close Sept. 19
OACAC services going through Branson; Beck hopes to save other services
Nathan Toon: Like Peter on the water

Recently, things have begun to change in my life and those around me. I can sense a call for faith to be tested and for obedience to heed that call.
Targets hit, national title won

Southwest trap team member Colten Phillips, left, encourages teammate Jesse Jones during competition at the AIM Grand Nationals Championship in Sparta, Ill., in July. Contributed photo
Year in Photos — Barry County boys basketball

Southwest’s Kasen Holder rises above the crowd for 2 during a Southwest Holiday Tournament game last season.
Big boys line up
Size is not everything when it comes to offensive and defensive lines, but being bigger overall than last year won’t hurt the Cassville football team.
Rex Alan Pendergraft

Rex Alan Pendergraft, 72, passed away on July 30, 2025, in Colorado. Born on January 18, 1953, to the late Lester and Pauline Tate Pendergraft, Rex grew up in Washburn, Missouri, where he learned a deep love of the outdoors and a strong work ethic.
Mary Lou Olson

Mary Lou Olson, 84, of Golden, Mo. passed away Friday, July 25, 2025, at her home.