News

Fulbright recipient times two
As a result of a second Fulbright Scholarship, a Purdy native is preparing to bring some tune to Tunisia. Jason Terry, a 2005 graduate of Purdy High School and the son of Steve and Mary Terry of Purdy, will soon begin his second venture abroad as a Fulbright Scholarship recipient — this time as a piano-tuning instructor at the Arab and Mediterranean Music Center in Tunisia.
Dairy Day, Beef Cattlemen’s Conference, trade show returning
The Monett Area Chamber of Commerce will bring back its popular agriculture conferences in 2025. Monett Dairy Day and the Beef Cattlemen’s Conference will again be held on the same day, Tuesday, Feb.
Purdy man charged with rape
A Purdy man is facing three felony charges after allegedly restraining and molesting a victim in Barry County. Jesi Owen, born 1989, of Purdy, is charged with first-degree kidnapping, first-degree rape and first-degree sodomy.
Man charged for car theft
A Fulton man has been arrested and charged with a felony after allegedly stealing a vehicle from a victim in Barry County, a crime for which he is on probation for a previous conviction. Richard Burwell, born 1993, of Fulton, is charged with first-degree tampering with a motor vehicle.
News Briefs, Jan. 15
The Lawrence and Barry County Democrats will hold their January monthly meeting on Jan. 23 at 7 p.m.

County elected officials sworn into positions
On Dec. 30, 2024, County Clerk Joyce Ennis, left, swore in Barry County officials elected in the November 2024 General Election.

Local law enforcement takes oath
At the Barry County Judicial Center on Dec. 31, 2024, Barry County Sheriff’s Office deputies, officers with the Ozarks Drug Enforcement Team and police officers from Monett, Cassville, Purdy and Wheaton recited their oaths for the coming year, led by Barry County Circuit Clerk Craig Williams. Contributed photo
Sales tax revenues up in ‘24
Despite December sales tax distributions falling 3% below a year ago, reports from Barry County cities and county government entities showed widespread gains over 2023, though some reflected very small revenue increases. Totals for 2024, compared to income before the COVID-19 pandemic surge in local shopping, show how sales and use tax now completely power local government operations.
Man charged after chase into McDonald County
An Aurora man is facing a felony charge after allegedly fleeing authorities for nearly 30 minutes into McDonald County. Cody Lowe, born 1990, of Aurora, is charged with felony resisting arrest.
Cassville Firefighter’s Auxiliary forming soon
The Cassville Firefighter’s Auxiliary has announced the upcoming formation of its organization, dedicated to supporting the Cassville Volunteer Fire Protection District and enhancing the safety and well being of the community.