“Astronomy in Ozark Heritage” is the theme of the third annual Academic Symposium at Missouri State University-West Plains, set for May 2 at the West Plains Civic Center. more

Editor’s Note: Shane Hull is a sophomore at Missouri State University-West Plains who began his collegiate career as a traditional student — one who enrolls in college immediately following high school. These students have their own sets of challenges, from picking the college they want to attend to actually attending classes. In this column, Shane concludes his story as a traditional college student by sharing the steps he’s taking to prepare for commencement. Shane works part time in the MSU-WP university communications office. more

The 4-H and FFA sheep, goat and swine weigh-in for the 2024 Heart of the Ozarks Fair will be from 9 to 11 a.m. April 6 at the Heart of the Ozarks Fairgrounds.   more

The Dawn of the Automobile more

Below are several upcoming events at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP), many of which are open to the community. Feel free to clip this calendar and keep it for your reference to make sure you don’t miss any events that might interest you. Also listed are several important dates on the university’s calendar that area residents might want to keep in mind.  more

Dorothy Woolford Ellis's journey from a small-town girl in Koshkonong to a revered environmentalist and political figure is a tale of determination, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the land she loved. Born on June 13, 1920, to Fred and Alice (Guy) Woolford, Dorothy's early life in the "Peach Capital of the World" set the stage for a lifetime of activism and environmental stewardship. This story unfolds across the sprawling landscapes of Oregon County, Missouri, weaving together the threads of Dorothy's remarkable contributions to conservation, politics, and community engagement. more

In West Plains, a chapter closes on a storied legacy that has left a lasting mark on high school sports, a testament to the dedication, passion, and prowess of one man: Scott Womack. After an illustrious 33-year tenure as the Head Coach of the West Plains High School Lady Zizzers basketball team, Womack has announced his retirement, bringing an end to an era that has been nothing short of phenomenal. With a remarkable career record of 636-287, Womack's journey through the highs and lows of high school basketball has been a masterclass in leadership, strategy, and the sheer love of the game. more

The University of Missouri Extension in Howell County is offering a Missouri Grazing School from April 30 through May 2 at the extension center, 1376 Bill Virdon Blvd. in East Towne Village shopping center in West Plains. more

In the vibrant chronicles of West Plains Lady Zizzers basketball, few names shine as brightly as Allyssa Joyner. Joyner, whose journey from a wide-eyed 5th grader to a towering beacon of athletic prowess, encapsulates the spirit of determination, growth, and sheer talent. With a staggering 1,642 career points, placing her as the fifth-highest scorer in the storied history of the Lady Zizzers, Joyner is not just a player; she's a phenomenon. more

For more than 1,000 years, astronomers believed stars and planets re-volved around the earth. They observed how stars moved smoothly in their or-bits while planets did not. Planets’ orbits wobbled, their speed varied, and sometimes even seemed to reverse directions. To explain facts that seemed to defy logic, scientists developed increasingly complex theories. more

Hosea 2:14 But then I will win her back once again. I will lead her into the desert and speak tenderly to her there. more

In the Upper Room, Jesus spoke with his closest friends for the last time. Soon Judas would betray him, he would be arrested, tried, and crucified. On that last night Jesus surely tried to share the most important things with them. What was first? He washed their feet. He did the job of the humblest servant, and then he said, “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you more

The topic of law versus grace is one that is debated in the Christian world. Most people ascribe to the theological view of Sola Fide, which means “Faith Alone”. This view is part of Soteriology, or the study of the process of salvation in the Christian faith. more

Officials at Missouri State University-West Plains on Tuesday were mourning the passing of former chancellor Kent Thomas. more

Ozarks Healthcare recently announced Dr. Joseph Barnard, board-certified family medicine physician, is now caring for patients at the health system’s clinic in Gainesville.  more

With spring right around the corner, we can start thinking of warmer activities and planning for outdoor adventures. National Nutrition Month, recognized in March, is a great time to learn about making healthier food choices, developing better habits and teaching kids about making good choices at the table or store. more