Sales tax revenues drop in August
The generally predictable summer slump in sales tax revenues surfaced in August as income to Barry County cities and county governments dipped overall by 5% from a year ago. Barry County’s seven cities collecting sales tax took in $812,010.58 in August, down 3% from a year ago.
Haven of the Ozarks Pet of the Week, Sept. 4

Black Jack is ready for fun and games. He was found as a stray. His estimated birth date is July 15, 2023. He is a shepherd mix breed. He is super friendly and loves people. Adopters can complete an adoption application at www. havenoftheozarks.org/ adopt. No appointment is needed for adopters. The Haven is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week.
Grant renewed for $900K
The Exeter school district has received another grant for its Afterschool Program, renewed for a third five-year cycle and keeping the program going. Mandy Mattingly, Afterschool Program director, said it’s rare for a school to be renewed once, let alone twice.
Gerald Dee “Jerry” Hopper

Gerald Dee “Jerry” Hopper, 85, of Mt. Vernon, Mo., passed away Monday, August 26, 2024, at Missouri Veterans Home in Mt.
Bill James Forgey

Bill James Forgey, 78, of Gateway, Ark. passed away at his home on August 27, 2024.
Bryan Lee “Giggles” Crigger

Bryan Lee “Giggles” Crigger, 37, of Seligman, Mo. passed away on August 25, 2024, at his home.
Kimberly Ann “Kim” Clements

Kimberly Ann “Kim” Clements, of Eagle Rock, Mo., passed away on August 15, 2024, at the age of 58. She was born July 18, 1966, in Homer, La., the daughter of Wright and Laura (Basco) Clements.
Florencio Villa Leiva

Florencio Villa Leiva, 76, of Purdy, Mo., passed away Thursday, August 29, 2024, at his home. He was born February 23, 1948, in San Jose de las Corrientes, Mexico the son of Francisco Villa and Magdalena Leiva, who preceded him in death.
Virginia Lee Amos

Virginia Lee Amos, 93, passed away Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at Dorset Place Memory Care in Oklahoma City, Okla. She was born July 20, 1931, in Barry County, Mo., the daughter of Lloyd John and Georgia Virginia (Keeling) Linebarger, who preceded her in death.
Cassville Beta Club earns national distinction

The Cassville Beta Club has earned National District of Distinction recognition for the 2023-2024 school year.