Barry County
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.
News Briefs, Jan. 8
The Barry County Democratic Central Committee will meet on Tuesday at 6 p.m. at El Mariachi Mexican Restaurant in Cassville.

Top 10 news stories of 2024
The Top 10 news stories of 2024 include the May 26 windstorm and Sheriff Boyd's reelection.

Through the Years, Jan. 1
30 years ago December 28 1994 — WELLS SIGNS OPEN SHOP PACT; PLANNING EXPANSION Wells Aluminum Inc., with manufacturing plants in Cassville and Monett has signed a one year contract…

Top 10 sports stories of 2024
The top 10 sports stories of 2024 includes Faith James' wrestling state title and Southwest repeating its boys hoops district championship.

Kyle Troutman: 2024 in review
I’ve been pondering this piece for a few days, and every time I do, I land at the same question — where do I even begin? To say this year has been a whirlwind is an understatement. We started 2024 with a gleam in our eyes, coming off our first year of ownership of the Democrat where we enjoyed incredible support and success.

Janet Mills: Thrive in 2025
Make a toast, sing Auld Lang Syne, and eat some black-eyed peas for good luck! The clock strikes twelve midnight on Dec. 31, and a fresh New Year is ushered in.

Barry County native collecting bits of history
Rural Purdy native David Keeling is sitting on a trove of local history, the result of a hobby he began a decade ago. “I’m a little embarrassed about the amount of stuff I’ve collected in just ten years,” said Keeling, whose hobby has led to a veritable museum of his own making.
Purdy schools adjusting start time
Purdy school board members approved a calendar for the coming school year at its Dec. 19 meeting.

Jon Horner: A new chapter awaits
Here we are at the end of 2024. Now, we are getting ready to open the next page of our lives to a new chapter called 2025.