The Arkansas Supreme Court has lifted a judge's ruling against the state's ban on mask mandates by public schools. Attorneys in the case disagreed whether Thursday's ruling will allow the state to …

This orange tabby, named OK Kitty, is housed at the West Plains Regional Animal Shelter, 1486 BB Highway, having been surrendered by its previous owner due to illness. Shelter volunteer Trish Hammen says OK Kitty is missing home, is a good kitty and “would love to go home with a loving family.” The fee to adopt a cat is $45. Hammen noted with the recent onset of cold weather that the shelter burns firewood to keep its animals warm, and she anticipates volunteers will need a lot of wood this fall and winter. Anyone with downed trees in need of cutting is invited to call the shelter, 417-256-8438, or drop by between business hours, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Donations of already-cut firewood are also welcome. Hammen added the shelter continues to need cat and dog food.

American Heart Month, a federally designated event, is an ideal time to remind Americans to focus on their hearts and encourage them to get their families, friends and communities involved. Ozarks Healthcare is reminding its patients and community members that heart attacks, cardiovascular disease and strokes know no borders. The organization encourages patients and community members to focus on heart health through February.