In recognition of September as Suicide Prevention Month, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention will have a table set up beginning at 2:30 p.m. on Sept. 22 at the Avenue Theatre, 307 Washington Ave. in West Plains, to offer free educational materials about suicide prevention to the public. more

The Community Foundation of the Ozarks is now accepting nominations for the 2024 Humanitarian Award to honor a southwest Missouri resident for service that contributes to the betterment of their community. The deadline for nominations is noon Sept. 16. Nominations must be made online at formstack.com/forms/CFO-humanitarian. more

This Saturday, 'Go Farm' Farmers Market will return to it's normal 9 a.m. start time. more

The kids have been back to school for a couple of days now, which only means fall is near, quickly followed by the holidays. I collect recipes like some collect dishes and I'm always willing to try a new soup, but this week's recipe has my mouth watering. Per my husband's request, it will be on the menu as soon as it cools off, so I'm hoping the weather dips soon.  more

Get ready to fall in love with this homemade sweet potato bread—it’s like a warm hug in loaf form. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast or a sweet treat, this bread has you covered with its moist texture, rich flavor, and a hint of spice that’ll make your kitchen smell heavenly. more

During the month of July, Missouri Lottery offices paid out more than $8 million in prizes of $1,000 or more, over $21,000 of which came from tickets purchased at local retailers. more

The Amelia Network, a local networking group for women in business and leadership positions in the West Plains area and surrounding communities, announces it will hold the fourth annual Business Women’s Expo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 21. The event will be held at the Ozarks Small Business Incubator, 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains. more

Ozark County has been granted Agri-Ready County Designation by Missouri Farmers Care (MFC), a coalition of more than 40 leading agricultural groups and businesses. The county’s recognition rounds out the south-central region comprised of likewise dedicated neighbors Howell, Douglas, Oregon, Texas, Shannon and Wright counties. more

Financial Advisor Kevin Brown of the financial services firm Edward Jones in West Plains has received the Certified Financial Planner, or CFP, certification, granted by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (CFP Board). more

The Ozarks—a place where the land rolls gently like the melodies of an old folk tune, and where the pine-covered hills cradle stories passed down through generations. It's a region that has always seemed to move to its own rhythm, a rhythm born out of the hard lives of its people and the stubborn resilience that comes with carving out an existence in a rugged landscape. Here, life has never been easy, but it's always been full—full of work, of laughter, of music. more

When you think about classic American cars, names like Cadillac and Buick might come to mind. But for those in the know, there’s another name that carries a whole lot of weight and nostalgia: the Packard Clipper. This car isn’t just a piece of machinery; it’s a rolling symbol of an era when American craftsmanship was at its peak, and the open road promised adventure and style. So, let’s take a long, leisurely drive down memory lane and explore the fascinating history of the Packard Clipper—a car that, despite its ups and downs, left a lasting legacy in the world of automobiles. more

Last Thursday evening, the heart of West Plains was alive with the sounds of music, laughter, and community spirit as the third installment of Sounds Downtown took over the square. With perfect weather and an enthusiastic crowd, the event was set up for success from the start—and it didn’t disappoint. more

The Yellow House Community Arts Center is thrilled to announce the 3rd Annual August Bazaar, a vibrant and joyous celebration taking place today from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at 209 W. Trish Knight St., West Plains. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a fantastic lineup of activities, live music, delicious food, and unique art vendors. more

Recently I witnessed the joy of someone who had an important item returned after it had been dropped accidentally. It was an act of kindness by a stranger, and I think it was much appreciated. Last week I was grateful for the person in the car ahead of me who paid for my lunch in the drive-through line. Let me say “thank you” to that stranger, and to you, dear Reader, when you are kind. What a difference kindness makes in our world! In Galatians 5:22, the Apostle Paul tells us it is one of the fruit of the Spirit, which means it is evidence of God’s Spirit at work in us. We are instructed in Ephesians 4:32 to “be kind to one another”, and surely it is because kindness is an attribute of God and a quality visible in Jesus. May it be visible in us. Remember Mark Twain’s words, “Kindness is the language that the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” God bless your week! Diane Cooke, Pastor, Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs and Mtn. View. more

Evangelism is often considered the heartbeat of the Christian faith—a sacred duty given to every believer by Christ Himself. As Christians, we are called to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with the world, a world that is in desperate need of the hope, love, and salvation that only He can provide. The responsibility of evangelism is not just for pastors or missionaries; it is a mandate for every follower of Christ. This calling is deeply rooted in Scripture and has been the driving force behind the spread of Christianity throughout history. more

The West Plains Council on the Arts will host an exhibition, “Ozarks Buildings: Cultural Heritage and Containers of Spirit” by local artist Barbara Williams, from Sept. 14 through Oct. 19 in the gallery on the mezzanine at the West Plains Civic Center, 110 St. Louis St. The public may view the exhibit between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. weekdays and noon to 5 p.m. on weekends. more

The Willow Springs School Board will hold a special, closed session at 7 p.m. today in the school board room. more

The Texas County Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees voted unanimously to make Bill Bridges the permanent CEO at TCMH in the closed session portion of the July monthly meeting.    more

Ozark National Scenic Riverways (ONSR) will host a workshop about preparing resumes for federal government job openings from 5:30 to 7:30 Monday at the United Methodist Church Hall located at 18228 Church St. in Eminence. more