McAlister's Deli, a fast-casual chain restaurant, will open the doors of Missouri’s 34th location at 10 a.m. Sept. 16 at 703 N. Kentucky Ave., next to 10Box Cost Plus grocery store in West Plains. more

The Missouri Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Missouri State University in Springfield is joining forces with the Ozarks Small Business Incubator and the Greater West Plains Area Chamber of Commerce to host the Early-Stage Small Business Boot Camp Sept. 24 through Nov. 12. more

In the small town of West Plains, Missouri, names like Porter Wagoner, Preacher Roe, Jan Howard, Bill Virdon, and even Dick Van Dyke are celebrated with pride. These individuals, through their unique contributions to entertainment, sports, and music, have become synonymous with West Plains itself. Yet, one name often slips through the cracks: Speck Rhodes. For those who tuned in to the Porter Wagoner Show, however, the name Gilbert "Speck" Rhodes is impossible to forget. His signature blend of music and humor made him a beloved figure in country music, though his legacy is often overshadowed by the bigger names of his era. more

Each year since former U.S. President Jimmy Carter issued the first Grandparents Day proclamation in 1978, grandparents have been celebrated on the first Sunday after Labor Day. more

In science classes we can learn much about trees. They produce oxygen, provide shelter for birds and many animals, give us fruit or nuts, and are used for lumber, paper, and other goods. Did you realize that trees are mentioned throughout the Bible? From the first chapter of Genesis to the last chapter of Revelation, we find references to trees. In Jeremiah 17:7-8 we read, “Blessed are those who trust is the Lord. They shall be like a tree planted by water, sending out its roots by the stream. It shall not fear when heat comes, and its leaves shall stay green; in the year of drought it is not anxious, and it does not cease to bear fruit.” Remember to put your trust in the Lord each day. May God bless your week! Diane Cooke, Pastor of the Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs and Mtn. View. more

Twilight gardens delight the senses of sight and smell by adding another dimension to the gardening experience, says Gwen Funk, University of Missouri Extension horticulture specialist in Maryville. more

ASH GROVE, Mo. – Like firearms hunting, the key to successful archery hunting is shot placement. Being able to put an arrow in the right spot can make the difference between a successful harvest and a frustrating day looking for a wounded animal that got away. more

Revelation 16:8-9 ...and the sun was allowed to scorch people with fire. 9They were seared by the intense heat and they cursed the name of God, who had control over these plagues, but they refused to repent and glorify him. more

For many years, skeptics have proposed that the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus Christ were simply mass hallucinations. This theory suggests that those who claimed to see Jesus after His crucifixion — including the apostles and other followers — were so consumed by grief, hope, or emotional strain that they collectively imagined these encounters. While the idea may seem plausible at first, a closer look at both biblical accounts and psychological understanding reveals significant flaws in this explanation. more

Ozarks Christian Academy, a private Christian academy known for its commitment to academic excellence and character development, proudly unveils its new mascot, symbolizing a significant milestone in its rich history. more

The Chancel Choir of First United Methodist Church of West Plains is inviting you to join us for our annual Christmas cantata.  Our cantata, “Carry the Light” is a concert of choral music and narrations that celebrates the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. . All choir lovers in our community are welcome to participate. Rehearsals begin Wednesday, September 11th from 7-8pm in the sanctuary of FUMC. However, you can begin attending any Wednesday night in September. The performance will be Sunday, December 8th at 10am. There are no fees to join, we just want your voice and your presence!  more

In the Ozark Mountains and plateau, south central Missouri farmers are known as livestock production professionals. Dusty Collins has made his own path as an expert at growing the forages and grains to feed the region’s livestock. He grows corn, soybeans, corn silage and winter grain near West Plains in Agri-Ready Designated Howell County. more

The Missouri Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Missouri State University in Springfield is joining forces with the Ozarks Small Business Incubator and the Greater West Plains Area Chamber of Commerce to host the Early-Stage Small Business Boot Camp Sept. 24 through Nov. 12. more

The Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce recently recognized Pizza Americana owners, Andy and Lori Logan, for one year of ownership of the popular downtown Willow Springs eatery. more

Local McDonald’s restaurants will again celebrate area teachers this fall with the launch of the fifth annual McDonald’s Outstanding Educator Awards. Nominations will be accepted online through Sept. 22 at www.mcdonaldsmo.com/outstanding-educator. more