Like so many Americans, I have been absolutely appalled by the rampant antisemitism we’re seeing on college campuses. It’s unacceptable that in America in 2024, vicious mobs are harassing, chasing down, and blocking students from entering buildings on college campuses because of their Jewish faith. And let me be clear: These mobs aren’t anti-war protestors; they are terrorist-supporting hate groups. more

To the editor: more

Dear Readers, more

Springtime: a season synonymous with blooming flowers, verdant landscapes, and the promise of warmer days ahead. For many, it’s a time to revel in the beauty of nature’s rebirth, a chance to shed the layers of winter and embrace the sun's gentle kiss. However, for a significant portion of the population, this idyllic vision is marred by an annual battle against the invisible foes of pollen, mold spores, and a myriad of other allergens. Welcome to the world of seasonal allergies, where the joys of spring are tempered by the discomfort of runny noses, itchy eyes, and a symphony of sneezes. more

In an exciting development for aspiring writers and community storytellers, the West Plains Daily Quill has announced an open call for a new columnist to join our beloved weekly feature on the Local Voices page. This opportunity, appearing in every Wednesday edition of the newspaper, represents a significant platform for locals to share their insights, stories, and reflections on a wide array of topics ranging from local history to modern-day culture. more

Though I have never lived in the town of Houston, I’m enjoying a book by Julia West Parker that started as a paper she wrote for an upcoming centennial of the founding of Texas County, MO. Her story of the early history of Texas County and the town of Houston is a page-turner as she recalls the churches, schools, courthouses, businesses, and families of Texas County, beginning with her birth at Elk Creek, Mo. in 1881. more

The farmer down the road was the first person to pay me for working. more

Have you ever heard of Bharatanatyam? For most people in the Ozarks the answer would be just like me with a “No- I don’t even have an idea of what that would be.” Although I still stumble over the pronunciation - buh-ruh-tuh-NAH-tyum, I do know the definition and have studied its origin and practices in India. more

Dear Readers, more

May is an exciting time of year. Students and teachers are wrapping up the school year, and summer vacation is approaching. more

We celebrate National Women’s Health Week from May 12 through 18. more

In an exciting development for aspiring writers and community storytellers, the West Plains Daily Quill has announced an open call for a new columnist to join our beloved weekly feature on the Local Voices page. This opportunity, appearing in every Wednesday edition of the newspaper, represents a significant platform for locals to share their insights, stories, and reflections on a wide array of topics ranging from local history to modern-day culture. more

While April is known as the month that brings May flowers, it’s during the month of May that we set aside time to honor those who died in active military service, usually by placing flowers @ gravesites. Whether we call it Decoration Day or Memorial Day now, it’s always been a reverent day of remembrance in the Ozarks. more

My mother never made cinnamon rolls for breakfast or an apple pie for supper, leastways none that I can recall. more

A good buddy of mine, Bob McCosh, spends his weekends screaming down a dragstrip going 200 mph. I asked him once what it takes to compete. He said dedication, a great team and a reliable car. If any of these are missing you won't be taking home that checkered flag. more

Among my varied duties as a judge of the Supreme Court of Missouri, I frequently speak with groups — from elementary students to senior citizens — explaining how our courts function. It’s my favorite part of my job, and one I share with judges from throughout the state who participate in our civic education committee’s work to help connect Missourians with their courts! more

Dear Readers, more

It’s kind of a bittersweet thing, Memorial Day. Sure, it’s a three-day weekend, barbecues, and local parades. But at its heart, it’s about remembering those we’ve lost, particularly the ones who fought for our freedoms. And there’s this whole tradition—maybe your family does it too—of going out to cemeteries and decking out graves with flags, flowers, and all that jazz. Except, here’s the kicker, it looks like this tradition might be on its way out. more

I read some of the most interesting bits of history in a cookbook this week. That’s right, a cookbook: “Missouri Back Road Restaurant Recipes: A Cookbook & Restaurant Guide” by Anita Musgrove. more

All a telephone was good for when I was a boy was talking to people beyond earshot. more