Barry County
Federal disaster assistance near $1 million in first 10 days
FEMA completing on-site assessments for individuals affected by May storms In the first 10 days since President Joe Biden authorized federal disaster assistance for the state of Missouri, FEMA approved $903,720 dollars for 158 eligible individuals and households affected by May 19-27 storms. This money is in the form of grants that can help pay for eligible, disaster-related costs associated with a temporary place to stay, minimal home repairs and/or other serious needs not covered by insurance or other programs.
Pullin’ for the People returns
A charity tractor pull held in 2023 is getting new life this year, returning to the Stumpff Family Event Center this month with a new name and new individual the event will benefit. The 2nd Annual Pullin’ for the People tractor pull is set for Aug.
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.

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.
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.




