The Roaring River Nature Center on Jan. 11 and Feb. 1, 2025, will host events for visitors to learn all about bald eagles and search for these magnificent birds along Roaring River. When water sources freeze in the north, bald eagles migrate south to find food and water. With its constant flowing water and abundance of fish, Roaring River is an ideal location for bald eagles. People may visit the CCC Lodge anytime between 3-5 p.m. to participate in eagle-themed crafts and activities. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be available to help visitors locate eagles, and warm beverages will be available. People may also bring binoculars, spotting scopes and cameras of their own. People should dress for the weather, and consider bringing water and snacks. This program is free and open to the public, and there is no need to register. For more information, call the park office at 417-847-2539.
Wheaton historical Depot Museum closing for season
The Wheaton, MO, M&NA Historical Depot Museum will be closed for the winter months, reopening on March 1, 2025.
Christmas Candlelight Stroll on Saturday
It’s Christmas time in the holler! To celebrate the season, Roaring River Nature Center is hosting an illuminated stroll along Roaring River. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 21 at the CCC Lodge. Bring a lantern and marvel at the hundreds of luminaries lighting the banks of Roaring River. Listen to the sounds of nature, feel the crisp winter breeze, and maybe even catch the twinkle of silver bells. Warm up with Santa Claus himself in the lower level of the CCC Lodge and get a free Roaring River ornament while supplies last. Stroll to the amphitheater to listen to a reading of the tale of “The Night Before Christmas” and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and a sugar cookie. This event will last until 8:30 p.m. It is free and open to the public. The park store and restaurant will be open late for visitors to enjoy more holiday treats and 20% off the entire park store. For more information, people may call the park office at 417-847-2539.
Seligman Bingo Night on first Tuesday of month
A Bingo Night will be held the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Seligman Chamber Event Center, located on Highway 37 north of the city. If at least 50 people attend, two train tickets will be raffled. In the case of bad weather, bingo will be postponed. The building is handicap accessible, and all ages are invited. Bingo cards are $1 per play, and there is no limit on plays. A variety of prizes, excluding cash, will be awarded. Sodas and water are available for $1 each. Alcohol and smoking are not allowed in the building. For more information, people may call Eldora at 417-342-3895.
Cassville Senior Center hosting monthly dances
The Cassville Senior Center has started a once-amonth dance and dinner event with live music. The doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the dance is from 7-10 p.m. The Board of Directors for the Senior Center is sponsoring dances at the facility, located at 1111 Fair St. in Cassville. Dances are held on the first Friday of the month. Everyone is welcome. Entry is $5 per person, and 18-and-under are free. There will be door prizes and a potluck dinner, and attendees are welcome to bring a dish. All proceeds go to the Senior Center.
Old Church Gallery Farmers’ Market open weekly
The Old Church Gallery Farmers’ Market runs every Thursday from 8-11 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.
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 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.
