News
Young artists to shine for Ozark Festival Orchestra
The Ozark Festival Orchestra, based in Monett, will continue its 44th season at 3 p.m. on Feb. 25 at the Monett High School Performing Arts Center, presenting its annual Young Artists Concert.

50 years ago
Jan. 8, 1975 — SAVINGS FIRM WILL CONSTRUCT OFFICE BUILDING The Cassville agency of Monett Savings and Loan Association, has purchased property on Main Street and announced plans to construct an office complex.
News briefs, Jan. 31
The Barry County MU Extension will host its annual meeting and dinner on Feb. 8 at 6:30 p.m.

Hang, Dutra crowned Homecoming royalty in Wheaton
Zander Dutra, right, Wheaton Homecoming King, crowns Melanie Hang as Homecoming Queen Friday during the coronation at Wheaton High School prior to the contest against Hurley.

Snow on the go at Roaring River State Park
Numerous deer could be found near the Roaring River Hatchery on Jan. 17, seeking out greens to eat amidst the melting snowfall from to days prior.
Law changes proposed for industrial waste haulers
Proposed Missouri House Bills 1956 and 2134 were the subject of a nearly three-hour hearing before the House Conservation and Natural Resources Committee on Jan. 8.

Barry County pens $6.7 million budget for 2024
The Barry County Commission has passed a budget for 2024, fully funding the Barry County Sheriff’s Office to the tune of $4.2 million, a 54 percent increase, and raising county spending by $1.1 million, a 20 percent increase. The Sheriff’s Office in 2023 had an approved budget of $2,739,170, which was paid through general revenue.

Cassville High School Performing Arts Center set to rise soon
The $9.8 million Cassville Performing Arts Center (PAC) will soon see red iron instead of red dirt, as progress on the facility is on track for its August completion. Clint Walton, vice president of construction operations at RE Smith, updated the Cassville School Board on Thursday, explaining what has been completed and what is yet to come.
2 Purdy residents injured in Highway 37 crash
Vehicle fails to yield on Hwy. 37 Two Purdy residents were injured in a wreck at 8:45 a.m.

Wheeler named principal at Cassville Intermediate
The Cassville School Board has hired a new principal for Cassville Intermediate School, effective July 1. After 30 years in education, current Cassville Intermediate Principal Jeff Swadley is be retiring at the end of this academic year.