News briefs, May 1

Williams to retire from library

Cheryl Williams, branch supervisor at the Cassville Branch Library, is retiring. A celebration of Williams’ service to the library will be held on May 31 from noon to 5:30 p.m.

Life Change hosting Benefit Dinner

Life Change, a program that works with recovering and disadvantaged communities, will host a Benefit Dinner on May 23 at 6:30 p.m. at the Barn at Bear Ridge, located at 24074 Hwy. 76, southeast of Cassville. The dinner is $30 per plate, and there will be a benefit pie auction. Life Change is a place where people come together in community and connect to resources they need, such as life skills, job readiness and transportation. Attendees will hear current updates and plans for the future. People must RSVP by May 6 to cjbishop4@gmail.com, or by calling 417-846-3850. Donations may also be mailed to: Life Change SWMO, P.O. Box 221, Cassville, MO 65625.

Old Church Gallery Farmers’ Market open for season

The Old Church Gallery Farmers’ Market runs every Thursday from 8 to 11 a.m. The market has farm fresh produce, flowers, eggs, jams, relishes, baked goods, handmade crafts and more. Selection varies every week, so come early for the best choice. Old Church Gallery is on Farm Road 1240 in Shell Knob and can be reached at 417-858-2510.

Charlie 22 Outdoors launching Operation Little Flat Creek

Charlie 22 Outdoors, dedicated to helping veterans connect with the outdoors, is seeking applications for Operation Flat Creek, which encompasses three sessions and two fishing day. Session I is June 18-20, with applications due by May 18; Session II is July 9-11, with applications due by June 9; and Session III will be in November, with exact dates and deadlines to be determined. There will also be two fishing days, on April 23 and on May 16. The sessions, hosted by Little Flat Creek Ranches in Barry County, are all-expenses-paid adventures for veterans, Gold Star families and families who have lost a loved one to PTSD. Operation Little Flat Creek will be held at a 17-acre lake stocked with largemouth bass, blue gill and catfish. Other activities include watching wildlife, enjoying the creek, ATV rides, property tours and more. The lodge offers an ideal place for rest and relaxation, and spouses, children and parents of veterans are welcome. Wheelchair accessibility is also an option. To apply, people may visit www.charlie22outdoors.com. For more information, people may email charlie22outdoors@gmail.com or call 417-437-7247. Volunteer guide opportunities are available, as are veteran sponsorships.

Cassville Branch Library activities scheduled

Activities at the Cassville Branch Library this week include: Today, Open Adult Crafts from 10 a.m. to noon; Thursday, Tot Time at 9 a.m. (registration required), Story Time at 10 a.m. (registration required); Friday, After-School Movie, “Wish,” at 4 p.m. (registration required); Tuesday, Homeschool Program at 10 a.m. (registration required); May 8, Kids Canvas Tote Painting from 3:30-5 p.m. p.m. ($5 registration fee). For more information on any programs, people may call 417-847-2121. The library is located at 301 W. 17th St. in Cassville.

OATS rides available in Barry County

OATS Transit offers regular transportation services for the rural general public of any age, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Please call the local OATS Transit office at 417-887-9272 or 800-770-6287 to schedule a ride or find out about services in the Barry County area. People may also visit the OATS website at oatstransit.org to view local schedules under “Bus Schedules,” then click on the county of service. OATS offices will be closed, and regular routes will not be running on Feb. 20 for Presidents’ Day. Please keep this in mind as trips are scheduled near these holidays. OATS Transit is hiring drivers statewide to can continue serving riders. Openings are listed on the OATS website.

Lessons offered before Seligman’s Saturday dances

The Seligman Chamber of Commerce country dances at the Seligman Chamber Event Center are every Saturday from 7-10 p.m. No alcohol is allowed. Admission is $10 per person, and 18-and-under are free. There is a potluck, 50-50 drawing and door prizes. Free dance lessons will also be given from 5-6 p.m. For more information, people may call 479-903-3640.