The Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) Grizzly Softball team won both games of its season opening double header against Mission University, formerly Baptist Bible College, Saturday, Feb. 3, at Hilburn Sports Complex in West Plains. more

Missouri turkey hunters can apply online during February for 2024 spring turkey managed hunts through the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) website at mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/species/turkey/turkey-spring-managed-hunts. more

Howell Valley and Junction Hill schools have set dates for kindergarten and preschool screening sessions for incoming students planning to enroll for the 2024-25 school year. more

In the 1920s, when the air in Missouri was thick with economic despair, a tale began to weave itself into the fabric of the state’s history—a tale so remarkable, it would leave generations both baffled and enchanted. This is the story of Jim the Wonder Dog, a Llewellin setter with a coat as sleek as the night and eyes that held depths untold, who came into the life of Sam Van Arsdale, a hotelier with a penchant for hunting and an open heart for canine companions. more

A few years ago, I read an Our Daily Bread devotional by Mike Wittmer, about a mountain climber who reached the summit of Mount Everest in 2019. He was treated to the unique perspective of sunrise from the 29,032-foot mountain peak. He must have felt elated at having reached this famous location. Unfortunately, the climber did not survive the descent after his remarkable achievement. The high altitude had overtaxed his heart, and he died while descending the mountain. Wittmer explained medical experts often caution climbers to not view the top of Everest as their ultimate destination, but to realize “they’re in the death zone” until they reach lower altitudes. more

Hebrews 12:1-2 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. more

“Be still, and know that I am God.” We find these words in Psalm 46:10. Take some time to read and reflect upon these words. What do they mean to you? Be still. Stop talking; listen; stop arguing; stop complaining; switch off your phone; step away from the computer; be quiet; rest; rest in the Lord; let God’s peace flood your mind, heart, and spirit. And know. Stop doubting; be sure; be certain; lean upon God and experience his strength; remember the times the Lord has been close to you. That I am God. The Lord God is Gracious, Almighty, Loving, Merciful; God is Creator of all that is; God is love; God is my refuge, my hope, my rock, my redeemer; the Lord is my Shepherd; God is ever-present, a help in times of trouble; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Take time today to be still and experience God’s presence anew. May God bless your week! Diane Cooke, Pastor, Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs and Mtn. View. more

The debate on the Nature of Christ, known as Christology, remains one of the most profound and enduring theological discussions within Christian thought. Spanning over centuries, this debate seeks to understand the complex nature of Jesus Christ, who is acknowledged as both fully divine and fully human. This article delves into the historical context, key arguments, significant councils, and lasting impacts of this theological discourse, offering a comprehensive exploration of Christological development through the ages. more

Fourteen area high school seniors participated in the third annual welding contest hosted Jan. 19 by Missouri State University-West Plains’ workforce development office. more

The final three candidates for the next president of Missouri State University will take part in a series of open forums across the university system in February, officials announce.  more

Officials at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tenn., recognized Isaac Haney, West Plains, as one of the students named to the university’s dean's list for academic achievement during fall 2023. more

Officials at Missouri State University-West Plains have announced their dean’s list honorees for the 2023 fall semester. more

Until I move to my heavenly home, I have probably made my last move. I am now living at Pleasant Valley Manor Assisted Living, with my best childhood friend Betty Green and her sister, Margie Ryan. What a blessing to have them there! I am happy to be cared for in this way and they are the icing on the cake! What a place! more

Dollar General announces this week its recently remodeled store at 4314 N Highway in Pomona now offers produce in addition to the familiar products customers have become accustomed to purchasing from the company.  more

Leonardo DRS has made a $1,500 donation to The Chaos Closet in West Plain. Allison Garrison, marketing representative from the Charitable Contributions Committee with Leonardo DRS, says the committee accepts nominations from employees for donations or program sponsorships to a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that they are passionate about supporting. Nominations are reviewed and then approved by the Senior Leadership Team for distribution.  more

West Plains Lady Zizzers swam to back-to-back Ozark Conference Championships Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at the John H Foster Natatorium in Springfield. The meet was hosted by Central High School and featured 10 of the 11 Ozark Conference Schools in the final year of the conference. more

On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced the availability of $52.5 million in grants to community-based organizations that provide or coordinate suicide prevention services for veterans and their families — including conducting veteran mental health screenings, providing case management and peer support services, delivering emergency clinical services and reaching out to veterans at risk of suicide. more

In October 2023, Ozarks Healthcare announced the addition of Family Nurse Practitioner Brooke Fair to its team in Mtn. Grove. The strategic addition came at a crucial time of the year, say Ozarks Healthcare officials, as nurse practitioners play a pivotal role in providing specialized seasonal wellness care. more

Ozarks Healthcare will join nationwide efforts to observe of American Heart Month in February. With a focus on promoting heart health and preventing heart disease, the heath care system will offer a series of events to raise awareness and encourage proactive health measures. more