Rich Cummings: How will you use your freedom?

The value of freedom can be assessed in various ways and tends to increase when it is threatened or becomes scarce.
Year in Photos — Cassville softball

Cassville’s Aubrey Stoufer sends a pitch to the plate in the district championship game against Nevada last season.
Animals abound at Barry County Fair

Cara Leach was busy prepping her rabbits for show at the Barry County Fair on Saturday, trimming their nails before the showing began.
SBA disaster loan outreach centers open
U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOC) are opening in Greene, Lawrence and Newton counties following SBA’s approval of Governor Mike Kehoe’s request that it make available low interest federal disaster loans to homeowners, renters and businesses and private nonprofits impacted by severe storms and flooding that occurred on April 29.
Haven of the Ozarks celebrates new facility

On June 20, the Haven of the Ozarks Animal Sanctuary, located between Exeter and Washburn dedicated their new facility, Angel’s Haven, with a Chamber Ribbon Cutting and Open House. The funding for Angel’s Haven was provided by Patricia Hall of Monett, who named the building after her cherished cat, Angel. Angel’s Haven serves as both a cat housing facility and an adoption center office. The Haven of the Ozarks Animal Sanctuary celebrates 30 years of rescuing abused, abandoned and neglected animals. Cats and dogs receive medical treatment, spaying or neutering, vaccinations, microchipping and loving care before adoption into their forever homes. About 500 pets are adopted from the Haven annually, and the facility cares for over 100 animals daily. Funding comes from donations and adoption fees. The Haven of the Ozarks Animal Sanctuary operates seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. No appointment is necessary for adopters or visitors. The Haven is currently operating at full capacity, and urges all pet owners to spay or neuter their pets. For more information on the Haven, people may visit www.havenoftheozarks.org. Contributed photo
Mattingly named SW Regional Teacher of the Year

The Southwest Center for Educational Excellence in Webb City recently hosted its annual Regional Teacher of the Year Luncheon to celebrate the best of the best in education.
Haven of the Ozarks Pet of the Week, July 2

Meet adorable Gavin. Gavin and his siblings are available at the Haven. Their date of birth is April 22. They are mixed breed pups expected to be medium/ large when fully grown. All dog adoptions in July are half price.
Michelle Hilburn: Finding delight in nonfiction

After wrapping up my librarian duties, extended contract time, and a fun-filled summer school session, my summer has finally begun!
Jeremiah Buntin: Murder, lynching, and an Ozarks family

Recently the Barry County Museum received a donation from the Seitz family of a Smith & Wesson .32 caliber model 2 revolver reported to be the one used in the notorious murder of Jackson Carney and his wife Cordelia on December 4, 1869 by George Moore at their Shell Knob store.
OFO presents 2 Texas Tenors for pops concert
The Ozark Festival Orchestra will conclude its 45th season with its annual Marty Beckwith Memorial Pops Concert, slated for 3 p.m. on Sunday at the Monett High School Performing Arts Center.