Stories from Thursday, December 24, 2009

In the current economy that has brought job cut backs and lay offs, there is an "angel" in the area to help with food for those needing to keep their budgets to a minimum. The Angel Food Ministry is a non-profit, non-denominational organization dedicated to providing food relief to communities throughout the United States...

A Christmas message was presented at this week's meeting of the Monett Kiwanis Club by Ron Stair, pastor of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Monett. Focusing on gifts, a common thought at this time of year, Stair offered background to the song "The Twelve Days of Christmas."...

Christmas may only come once a year but the joy of giving can brighten any day. Former Monett businessman J.D. Pilkenton had one of those experiences the other day on the way to Shell Knob. Pilkenton and his business partner John Jones bought Modern Variety in Monett from Charles and Edna Main in 1968. ...

Purdy aldermen heard from an investment firm about funding options for the city's sewer system project and discussed routine matters at \the Dec. 14 city council meeting. Tyson Markham, a representative with McLiney and Company, was present to provide aldermen with information about the company and discuss ways the city could finance mandated sewer upgrades...

This week in Springfield: Free ice skating will be offered 2 to 3 p.m. on Friday at the Mediacom Ice Park. Skate rental is $2.50. The Starlab Planetarium, 438 E. St. Louis, offers a recap of the year on Dec. 28. The First Night celebration planned for Dec. ...