I'm calling it! It looks like we might have an early fall this year.  With that thought you know what comes next, pumpkin. Yes, it's pumpkin season, the seasonal flavor that deserves a year-round campaign, too much? I love pumpkin truth be told and I do use it more than a couple of months out of the year because it's a super food. Pumpkin puree boosts the immune system, full of beta carotene, vitamins C and E plus a good supply of iron and fiber just to name a few of its good properties. It's also beneficial for dogs with an upset stomach or loose stools, one reason I always have a can in the pantry.  Another good reason is cookies. Pumpkin puree makes the best oatmeal cookies and this recipe is so easy. I like to add mini chocolate chips to the batter when I'm craving chocolate. But don't wait for the cravings to convince you to try this favorite fall recipe that will soon become an annual treat. It doesn't matter if you are team pumpkin or not, these cookies are hearty and paired with a hot beverage, could pass for breakfast on the run. Pumpkin season has kicked off, so treat yourself, it's only just begun.  more

Providential Farms has started bringing in their beautiful Fall mums to the market every Saturday. more

The renowned writer Ernest Hemingway is credited with saying, “My only regret in life is that I didn’t drink more wine.” Perhaps if the author had a better understanding of pairing wine with food, he would have enjoyed his wine a bit more often? more

The Ozarks Healthcare Foundation announces its third annual Fall Mum Sale, described by officials as “a vibrant and colorful fundraising event” aimed at supporting Ozarks Healthcare’s Endowment Fund. more

Open enrollment for Medicare health and drug plans begins on Oct. 15.   more

The John J. Pershing Veterans Affairs Medical Center will offer veterans several opportunities to get no-cost influenza vaccinations during September and October.  more

Wes and the late Emily Parks, of West Plains, were “over the moon becoming grandparents,” shared their daughter, Michelle DeWitt, and they have loved every minute of it, offering to take the kids and grandkids out. more

A schedule has been set for ranger-led themed fall hikes at parks within Ozark National Scenic Riverways (ONSR), beginning Sept. 23 and running through Nov. 4, the Ozark Riverways Foundation has announced. All hikes have been categorized by skill level and how long and strenuous the walk is. more

Ozark Artery is set to host a car- and vehicle-themed art show in partnership with the Yellow House. Bradley Mitchell, an Ozark Artery participant who suggested the theme for the show, notes the many ways cars and “car culture” have influenced media and had a significant impact on society, from music to television to movies and more. more

The West Plains Council on the Arts will host a watercolor workshop by area artist Lee Copen from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 4 in the Walnut Room at the West Plains Civic Center, 110 St. Louis St. more

For fall cooking and crafts, pumpkins usually take the spotlight as the centerpiece of Halloween and Thanksgiving celebrations, along with pumpkin-spice-flavored everything. more

Arts Alliance member events and activities: more

Due to overwhelming response, the Quill will publish additional Grandparents Day tributes submitted by readers in the Wednesday, Sept. 13 print edition. more

In the heart of Ozark County, a labyrinth of winding roads leads you to Dawt Mill, a vestige of Missouri's milling past, standing resiliently by the North Fork River. It's an evolving narrative, a testament to human will, economic evolution, and the unforgiving forces of Mother Nature. more

Missouri State University President Clif Smart announced plans on Wednesday to retire in summer 2024. more

The Council of Nicea, convened in AD 325, is undeniably one of the most significant events in Christian history. Often referred to as the first ecumenical council, it saw bishops from across the Roman Empire gather under the auspices of Emperor Constantine I. Their primary aim was to address and resolve theological disputes threatening the unity of the early Christian Church, but its outcomes have far-reaching implications even today. more

Acts 7:30-32  After forty years had passed, an angel appeared to Moses in the flames of a burning bush in the desert near Mount Sinai. When he saw this, he was amazed at the sight. As he went over to get a closer look, he heard the Lord say: ‘I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.’ Moses trembled with fear and did not dare to look. more