Romans 4:3 "What does Scripture say? 'Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.'” more

Both of my children sang in choirs at school, church, and college. They received vocal training in school, and I have enjoyed many excellent choir concerts in which they participated. The beauty of the music was never an accident. It happened because of time devoted to instruction, effort, and rehearsal. Singing in harmony was the result. Different parts sung together make something beautiful that no single person could do alone. more

Racism is an enduring issue that has plagued humanity for generations, sowing division and causing profound pain. As followers of Christ, we are called to confront this sin through the teachings of the Bible, which not only addresses racism but provides a clear guide on how we should treat one another, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background. more

As students begin a new school year, the American Red Cross offers this checklist parents can follow to help make sure their students are safe. more

The labor and delivery team at Mercy Hospital Springfield is the first in the U.S. to test out a new labor and delivery device, health system officials recently announced. more

It’s not news that cancer screening is important. Recommended screenings can catch cancer early when it’s more treatable — and some can even prevent cancer in the first place. more

The Missouri Department of Social Services (DSS) announced Monday its launch of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s new Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (S-EBT) Program, known as “Missouri SuN Bucks.” more

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