News
3 arrested in drug bust
Three men were arrested on July 30 in a multi-agency raid on a suspected drug trafficking operation south of Purdy. Dennis McMullen, of Purdy, is charged with first-degree drug trafficking, possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of a firearm and endangering the welfare of a child.
News Briefs, Aug. 7
The Southwest Missouri Waste Management District N will hold its monthly Executive Board meeting at 11:50 a.m. on Tuesday at the Angus Branch Steakhouse in Monett.

Fire spinner wins local talent show
Fire spinner Christopher Tackett walks the stage during his performance at the 2nd Annual Ozarks Got Talent show on Saturday at Zone 4 Mini Golf and More.
Final finance reports filed in sheriff race
Candidates for Barry County sheriff have all filed campaign finance reports required eight days prior to the election, detailing their donations received and their spending since the second quarter reports.
President approves major disaster declaration
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has announced federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Missouri to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from May 19-27.
DNR intends to deny 2 lagoon permits
Public comments being accepted through Sept. .9 The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) intends to deny operating permits for Denali Water Solutions’ Evans and Gideon lagoons, located in Newton and McDonald Counties, respectively.
PHOTOS: Sheriff candidates debate in Eagle Rock
About 125 people attended the Eagle Rock Community Association sheriff debate on Friday in Eagle Rock.
CFO opens 2024–2025 competitive grant programs
The first grant rounds from the Community Foundation of the Ozarks for 2024-2025 are now open. The CFO’s annual competitive grant programs are supported by a nearly $5 million grantmaking budget — the largest in the foundation’s history.
Sidewalk improvements start next week
Drivers should watch for contractor crews making sidewalk improvements and working close to traffic in Purdy, Wheaton, Seligman and Cassville beginning the week of August 5, the Missouri Department of Transportation said. Improvements include improving drainage, making landings, crosswalks, pedestrian signs and relocating a pedestrian crossing and pavement markings conform to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Sales tax receipts strong in July
Barry County cities and the county government sales taxes showed gains in July, making up for incremental drops in June. The seven Barry County cities collecting sales tax received $792,242.85 in July, up 3 percent from a year ago and a 2 percent drop in June.