In the heart of West Plains, the First Presbyterian Church renews its commitment to providing disaster relief by organizing its notable "disaster relief buckets". These buckets, destined for the John Calvin Presbytery Disaster Assistance (JCPDA), serve as a beacon of hope for communities grappling with crises and catastrophic events. The initiative mirrors the Presbyterian Church (USA)'s vision of showcasing Christ's healing love through community care. more

Eagle Heights Independent Baptist Church, located at 1078 CR 8570, West Plains, MO 65775, is excited to announce its upcoming Prophecy Conference and Revival. This spiritually enriching event will be led by Bro. Tom Sooter and is set to take place from October 22nd to October 25th. more

Since its inception, the automobile industry has been characterized by its innovations, and few vehicles embody the essence of this evolutionary journey as deeply as the Ford F-150. Today, we delve into the rich history, development, and enduring impact of this iconic truck, which has become synonymous with reliability, power, and American craftsmanship. more

Tonight, as the sun sets and the golden hour graces the town, the historic Avenue Theatre's marquee will light up, signifying the commencement of the second weekend for its poignant production of "Steel Magnolias." Directed by the passionate Tray Whitsell, this rendition promises not just a walk down memory lane but an experience that delves deep into the heart and soul, while still evoking hearty laughter. more

Officials with the Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland have announced a new Mental Wellness program intended to teach girls how to care for their emotions, with self-care activities made to foster their resilience. more

Officials at Missouri State University-West Plains paid tribute to one of the nursing program’s quiet, yet ardent, supporters on Oct. 6, when they dedicated the new nursing simulation lab in honor of the late Kennoth Gammill. more

Texas County Memorial Hospital in Houston has achieved gold-level Safe Sleep Certification with the National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program, board members heard at the hospital’s most recent monthly board meeting, held Sept. 26. According to hospital officials, TCMH is Missouri's first small, independent hospital to achieve this certification.  more

Officials with the Ozarks Small Business Incubator, 408 Washington Ave. in West Plains announced this month it has awarded microloans to Team Fusion West Plains and Montalto Coffee Co. in Houston. more

Arby’s to host fundraiser for Christos House more

Editor’s note: This is a continuation of a classic column reprinted from June 1996, the first half of which appeared in the Oct. 11, 2023, issue of the Quill. In the original column, the recipes were attributed to the kindergarten students in Patty Goss’ classroom at West Plains Elementary School; it has since been learned their teacher was Kathy Goss, and that information has been updated. more

Hello food lovers, and welcome back to my kitchen. Ah, autumn. A season adorned with chunky knit scarves, crunchy leaves, and the aroma of comfort foods wafting from the kitchen. Today, we are diving into the depths of a dish that sits right at the intersection of traditional pub grub and pure, unadulterated comfort: the Chicken Pot Pie Soup. With all the heart-warming characteristics of its pie counterpart, this soup is like a hug in a bowl. Let’s embark on this delicious journey, shall we? more

Create a birch tree/cardinal door hanger at a workshop hosted by the West Plains Council on the Arts and led by local artist Tara Shahan in November. Participants can choose from two sessions: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. November 14 or 16. Both sessions will take place in the Dogwood rooms of the West Plains Civic Center, 110 St. Louis St. more

In the quaint southern Missouri town of West Plains, nestled on the historic Washington Avenue, the Avenue Theatre, an Art Deco gem, has hummed a melody of moving pictures and mesmerizing performances since 1950. Its facade, a glorious canvas of stepped stucco adorned with a triangular marquee and neon sign, invites visitors into its 475-seat embrace, with tales woven not just on its stage but within its very walls. more

Arts Alliance member events and activities: more

Larry Davies and I are friends though we have never met nor spoken by phone. We have read each other’s devotionals for years and he wrote the introduction for my first book. Larry recently emailed asking me to write something to promote his coming de-votional books. I agreed and today am sharing one of his stories. more

In the bustling digital era where global connections are merely a click away, and cultural, social, and moral landscapes ever-evolving, the ancient parable of the prodigal son provides an intriguing lens through which to view the complexities and dilemmas of contemporary human experiences and relationships. Rooted in the biblical Gospel of Luke, this narrative has transcended epochs, offering a timeless exploration of themes such as forgiveness, repentance, and unconditional love. But in our present-day context, how do the intricate layers of the prodigal son story unfold, and what new perspectives emerge in the light of 21st-century paradigms? more

Do you recall a time when someone encouraged you? Perhaps you were frustrated or overburdened. Encouragement is a blessing to us in difficult times. You have the opportunity to encourage others and give them support just by writing them a note or offering to listen to their frustrations. You can help them see their strengths, remind them of God’s presence, and then look for ways you can lighten their burden. Giving advice isn’t always helpful, so just listen and show you care. When the Holy Spirit is at work in us, we show kindness and caring to others, and we can “encourage one another and build each other up.” (I Thessalonians 5:11). The Good News Translation of Ephesians 4:9 says, “Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you.” May God bless your week! Diane Cooke, Pastor, Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs and Mtn. View. more

Genesis 4:3 And it was so after some time that Cain brought of the fruits of the earth a sacrifice to the Lord. (Septuagint) more

In the vast and intricate tapestry of automobile history, where speed, design, and innovation converge, the MGB Roadster embroiders its own indelible mark, parading through the annals of time with an effortless blend of style, performance, and an undeniably British charm. A beacon of automotive artistry birthed by the Morris Garage (MG) marque, the MGB didn’t merely roll onto the roads; it cascaded into the hearts of auto enthusiasts, embodying a spirit that reverberated across generations and geographies. more