Local News
Ozark County Commissioners voted to update the county’s hazardous mitigation plan, a routine task commissioners do every five years. The Ozark County Multijurisdictional Local Hazardous Mitigation Plan is something that is prepared for the county by South Central Ozarks Council of Government (...
Ozark County Toy Drive volunteers Susannah Alms, closest to the camera, and Jenna Uchtman work to wrap gifts during the 2022 Ozark County Toy Drive, held Dec. 17 in Gainesville.
Toys and other gifts for more than 200 Ozark County children were distributed Saturday, Dec. 17, at this year’s Ozark County Toy Drive. The event was held in the former Senior Center building on Third Street in Gainesville.
“We had plenty of toys and lots of good workers,” said chairperson Nancy...
Guests of The Polar Express-themed foster family Christmas party entered through this “train station” door into a magical world transformed into scenes from the Christmas movie “The Polar Express.”
Thanks to dozens of warm hearts and busy hands, foster children and families in Ozark, Douglas and Wright Counties were welcomed with open arms to an extravagant The Polar Express-themed Christmas party thrown in their honor Dec. 10 in Ava.
“For all who give, shop, serve, create, pray and love…...
The Gainesville square was filled with twinkling lights, smiling guests, the smell of freshly baked goodies and other sweet treats during the Wonders of Christmas Festival and Jingle Bell Parade held on the square Friday night, Dec. 16.
The Gainesville square was transformed into a magical Christmas wonderland Friday night, Dec. 16, setting the stage for the 2022 Wonders of Christmas festival.
Under twinkling Christmas lights and decor, festival attendees enjoyed horse-drawn carriage rides, homemade hot cocoa and spiced apple...
Ozark County Commissioners found out Monday that the county’s insurance cost is increasing for 2023, but the increase isn’t as much as the previous year’s hike.
While the county is considered self-insured on the health insurance side, which has saved the county a considerable amount of money, the...
Well-known community volunteer
Diane Dreckman White, this year’s Jingle Bell Parade marshal, is known for her big heart, bright smile and her ready willingness to help wherever she can. She is a familiar face to those who donate during blood drives, vote during elections, participate in...
2021 Mr. and Miss Merry Christmas Amanda Thomas and Zander Zubrod
The annual Mr. and Miss Merry Christmas contest, open to 4- and 5-year-old girls and boys, will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, at the gazebo on the square during Gainesville’s Wonders of Christmas festival and parade.
The deadline to sign up has passed, and registration is therefore closed....
Presiding Commissioner John Turner
Outgoing Presiding County Commissioner John Turner has seen a lot of changes during his two terms, and the longtime Ozark County resident says he is proud of accomplishments during his eight years in office, in spite of a pandemic and a 1,200-year flood.
“I had big shoes to fill when I took office...
Red Celebration
The artwork of Gainesville resident Kathy Rountree is now displayed at the Ozark County Volunteer Library as part of the organization’s visiting artist exhibits.
The paintings are part of her “American Indian Painting Collection,” which is influenced by her great-grandfather John Addux Wills of...
Megan Lynne with Maple Leaf Stitches plans to return to this year's Dec. 16 Wonders of Christmas festival on the Gainesville square, selling crocheted hats and other and handmade items. Vendor space is free. Call Allisa West at 417-543-0407 for more information.
Those who are looking for a place to sell handmade crafts, other gift items, food, snacks and drinks or provide games or other fun, interactive Christmas-themed stations may consider setting up at the Dec. 16 Wonders of Christmas festival on the Gainesville square.
The Friday night event welcomes...