Growing up in a small town, I knew my neighbors. I rode bikes and played wiffle ball with my neighbors. I went to church and school with my neighbors. I even went to a neighbor's house to eat chocolate chip cookies when I got in trouble at home. That was because my grandparents were one of my neighbors! more

It didn’t take long for me to get enough winter after the ice and cold weather that enveloped the Ozarks in early January. more

Where did the Smotherman sisters go to school, and how did they get there? more

As I write this on Feb. 22, I realize it’s George Washington’s birthday and regret it’s not honored as it was when I was growing up. Back “in my day,” Washington’s and Lincoln’s birthdays were federal holidays on Feb. 12 and Feb. 22, respectively. more

Agriculture has always been an important part of my life, just like it has been for so many in southeast and south-central Missouri. Growing up, I spent a lot of time on my grandparents’ farm in Salem — the very same one I purchased shortly after college and where I live today. It’s where I put in hours of hard work, discovered my love for agriculture, and made memories I’ll never forget. While the time I spent on my grandparents’ farm gave me valuable experience, nothing prepared me more to be a cattle rancher — and a congressman — than FFA. more

One of my favorite parts of being a reporter was — and still is when I get the chance — asking questions and waiting, listening for the answer. more

John Maxwell’s “The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader” offers valuable leadership lessons that apply not just in businesses or organizations but also in neighborhoods. Last week, I shared qualities 1-11 and how they can enhance community engagement and leadership. This week, I continue with qualities 12-21, exploring how they can help build stronger, more connected neighborhoods. more

Saturdays were exciting because the entire family went into town. more

September 21, 2024 –– much like George Strait sang it in 1985, that was when the cowboys rode away. more

All Texas County Libraries are celebrating Take Your Child to the Library Day on Saturday! more

It is with great humility and excitement that I step into the role of Missouri’s 41st secretary of state. My journey from the legislature to this office has given me a deep appreciation for the responsibilities entrusted to us by the people of Missouri. I had the honor of speaking before the Missouri Press Association in our state capitol recently. Now, writing this with just a week on the job, I want to share some reflections and goals as we embark on this journey together. more

One foot in front of the other. One bite at a time. Each day as it comes. more

Though my “Valentine” isn’t here to bring me a box of chocolates or a bouquet of flowers any longer, we made many happy memories together that help me to celebrate the day every year. more

The three little girls were assigned chores and were expected to complete them without argument. Backtalk, arguing, being “sassy” might bring corporal punishment, which began with Mother saying, in a serious, mildly angry voice, “Go cut me a switch!” more

John Maxwell wrote “The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader,” a short book with big lessons about leadership. This week, I look at qualities from the book and suggest how these can apply to improving our neighborhoods.
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Valentine’s Day, coming up this Friday, Feb.14, has to be one of the most peculiar holidays we celebrated. more

As I’ve mentioned before, sometimes the expectations I have to manage are my own. Whew. more

New year, new beginnings. Maybe an overdone theme for a monthly column. Yet, here we are, and I promise there is some good stuff. more

The new year is underway, and the countdown to spring has started. There’s typically something to appreciate in each day and season, so I try not to get ahead of myself and wish the calendar away. That said, you’ve heard of “fair weather fishermen?” When the temps hit single digits and the evening darkness blankets the late afternoon, I become more of a fair-weather human! more

Anyone who lives on a gravel road knows what happens when it snows — your road isn't getting bladed until all the blacktops are cleared. This past snowstorm had me holed up at home with my family.  more