The Educational Digital Marketing Awards (EDM) organization has awarded Ozarka College Director of Public Relations and Marketing Katie Norris two awards in the category of “Digital Video Under Two Minutes.” more

The streets of downtown West Plains were awash in patriotic fervor last week as the city held its annual Veterans Day Parade under clear, azure skies. The parade, a cherished tradition in this close-knit community, drew hundreds of residents and visitors who lined the streets to pay homage to the brave men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. more

Hello fellow food lovers, and welcome back to my kitchen. This time of year we’re all looking for comfort. As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there's nothing more comforting than a bowl of warm, hearty soup. Today, I'm thrilled to share with you my recipe for a Rustic Chicken and Vegetable Harvest Soup, a perfect symphony of flavors that embodies the essence of fall. more

The countdown is on, menus are being planned and supplies bought, all for the annual feast of Thanksgiving.  For me, it's all about the traditional dishes and the labor of love to feed my family. So many memories from the past, food keeps that connection with room for more to be made. My main menu remains the same each year but I like to play with the desserts and try something new most years while keeping at least one pumpkin pie present.  Since we eat mid-day, I like to have something to snack on while the dinner is being put together. This year, a warm crisp sounded good, full of fall flavors and seasonal spices. This pumpkin Pie Crisp is perfect for brunch or dessert, and better the next day if there is any left.  Served hot or cold, with or without ice cream the flavors blend well making it a perfect fall treat. Crisps aren't as popular as pie but I'm sure this recipe will change some minds. Happy baking! more

We have a new vendor, Melissa Magnotte, owner of Petty Crow Perfume Blending Bar, who has a collection of 50+ high quality pure essential oils used to create your own custom perfume blend. She also has a rack of Gluten Free baked goods including Honey Oat Sandwich Bread, Fruit Hand Pies, Peanut Butter Cookies, No Bake cookies and more, all made in her Gluten Free Kitchen! more

Before I begin with some unusual holiday recipes, let me direct a heartfelt thank-you to a great editor, Abby Hess! Even if I leave her with nothing, she makes my effort look great! Thanks, Abby. You are the greatest! more

For many, watching the classic holiday movie “Elf” has been a heartwarming tradition for 20 years. This November, the American Red Cross is encouraging people to add a new tradition as the holiday season begins: Spread cheer with a blood or platelet donation.  more

Texas County Memorial Hospital in Houston will receive a $332,000 Delta Regional Authority grant, hospital board members learned at their most recent monthly meeting on Oct. 31.  more

On a serene Missouri morning, the gentle hum of anticipation fills the air as Missouri State University-West Plains opens its doors to an initiative that is a beacon of hope and a testament to human potential: the ASCEND Program. The atmosphere is charged with an air of possibility, as families from various walks of life converge upon the university, each sharing a common thread – a loved one on the autism spectrum, ready to embark on a journey through academia and beyond. more

In the spirited world of high school sports, few stories are as compelling as that of the West Plains High School Zizzers and Lady Zizzers Cross Country teams. Under the guidance of Coach Alicia Gunter, these teams have demonstrated a remarkable blend of tenacity, skill, and team spirit, particularly at the Class 4 Championship State Cross Country Meet held on Saturday, November 4th. more

Many years ago, I read best-selling author John Maxwell’s fascinating book, The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership. Maxwell told a dramatic story about businessman Roberto Goizueta, the former CEO of Coca-Cola. In 1997, only a few months before his death, Goizueta delivered a brilliant speech to the Executives’ Club of Chicago in which he shared the passion which motivated him to get up each day. He said, “…A billion minutes ago, Christianity emerged. A billion seconds ago the Beetles performed on the Ed Sullivan show. A billion Coca-Colas ago was… yesterday morning. And the question we are asking ourselves now is, ‘What must we do to make a bil-lion Coca-Colas ago this morning?’” more

We read in Psalm 107:1, “O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.” Throughout the year we give thanks to God for abundant blessings, Now that November is here, we think about Thanksgiving Day and the Pilgrims’ celebration in 1621. The Mayflower sailed across the Atlantic with 102 passengers and 30 crew members. Because of disease and exposure during the bitter cold of the winter, about half of them died. With the help of Squanto and the native Wampanoag tribe, the Pilgrims had a harvest that autumn. They celebrated with their new friends and gave thanks for the abundance God provided. May we pause every day to give thanks! May God bless your week! Diane Cooke, Pastor, Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs and Mtn.View. more

The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. Jeremiah 31:3 more

In the vast expanse of religious teachings and interpretations, the fundamental message of Jesus Christ remains a subject of profound contemplation and discussion. Central to Christian faith, the words and actions of Jesus as depicted in the New Testament offer insights into his teachings. At the heart of this exploration lies a question that challenges the conscience of believers: Does following Jesus Christ mean adhering to a strict set of rules, or is it a deeper call to embody the essence of his teachings? more

In the halls of motorcycle history, few names evoke as much reverence and nostalgia as Moto Guzzi. Founded in 1921 in Mandello del Lario, Italy, by Carlo Guzzi and Giorgio Parodi, Moto Guzzi has carved out a unique space in the pantheon of motorcycle manufacturing. Over the decades, the brand has become synonymous with innovation, distinct design, and an unwavering commitment to quality. more