Barry County
Exeter expansion complete
A project years in the making has given Exeter students new spaces for weightlifting, agricultural education, career exploration and band, also providing the district facilities designed to serve students long into the future.
Purdy school board reviews tax levy, repairs
Purdy school board members completed preparations for the new school year, including a review of troublesome facility issues, at its Aug. 13 meeting.
Aging water systems present challenges
The Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) recently approved the sale of the City of Neosho’s water and wastewater systems to Missouri American Water (MAW) for $34.5 million, with the completed sale announced by MAW on Sept. 3.
Purdy FFA Chapter Helps Pack 252,564 Meals at State Fair
Members of the Purdy FFA Chapter joined more than 782 FFA members from 95 Missouri FFA Chapters and agricultural leaders to pack meals, a capstone celebration through service of the Missouri Farmers Care Foundation’s (MFCF) 2026 Drive to Feed Kids (Drive).
Staff View — Sheila Harris: The geese are gathering
I’ve been sheltered here in Barry County. Until the recent purchase of the Neosho public water and wastewater systems by Missouri American Water (MAW), I didn’t realize that many public water systems in the state are owned and operated by shareholders in publicly-traded stock.
Community Voices — Terry Held: We the People…
…are more than mere words to dress a festival of patriotism; they are a solemn charge that requires an informed citizenry, beginning with robust civic instruction in our educational institutions. Those three words, written in an unmistakable flourish across the top of the United States Constitution, may be among the most consequential words ever put to paper.
Through the Years, Sept. 9
40 YEARS AGO: THAT'S THE TROPHY WE WON — Chipper, two-year-old Palomino gelding, looks at his world class trophy, held by owner Dana Kammerlohr.
Haven of the Ozarks Pet of the Week, Sept. 9
Hi, I’m Tristan! I’m a spirited 4-month-old black and red terrier with a whole lot of personality packed into my pint-sized 6.5-pound frame. I’m adventurous and friendly, and I’m already proving to be a great buddy for cats — so I’ll fit perfectly into homes with feline friends. My adoption fee is $150, and I’m ready to bring fun and energy to your family. Adopters can complete an application at www.havenoftheozarks.org/adopt. No appointment is needed.
Master Gardeners to host fall workshop
Barry County Master Gardeners will host the annual fall workshop on Sept. 26 in Cassville.
News Briefs, Sept. 9
The 92nd annual reunion of the 12 Pioneer Families of Southwest Missouri and the surrounding areas will be held on Sept. 20 at the Monett City Park Casino, located at 101 S. Lincoln Ave. in Monett’s South Park.
