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The Ozark Festival Orchestra will present its Christmas concert at 3 p.m. on Sunday at the Monett High School Performing Arts Center. A special feature for this performance will be 10 dancers from the Midwest Regional Ballet Performing Arts Company and School in Joplin, dancing to three selections from Tchikovsky’s “Nutcracker.” The concert will also include holiday favorites by Leroy Anderson, arrangements of “Carol of the Bells” and other seasonal selections, a visit from Santa Claus and a sing-along. Parents are encouraged to bring children for photos with Santa. Cost for admission is $10 for adults, $5 for senior citizens and free to children age 18 and under. The OFO is a not-for-profit ensemble based in Monett with 53 players in this concert, 15 of whom are from Barry and Lawrence counties.

We asked Cassville third-grade students what they are thankful for, and here’s how they responded.

The Purdy Farm Center's fertilizer building was destroyed by a fire on Friday night, one that grew quickly and presented threats of explosions. Nick Mercer, Purdy fire chief, said crews received the call at about 5:30 p.m., arriving at the facility at 100 W.

Larry Hayworth, left, and Aaron Brooks played acoustic guitar on the porch of the Bayless/Salyer House in Cassville during the silent auction benefitting Project Graduation.

Hunger and lack of reliable access to fresh food are big challenges for families in Barry County in southwestern Missouri. The community ranked these issues at the top of a needs assessment by the University of Missouri Extension Council in Barry County.