The Apostle Paul wrote, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4) In Nehemiah 8:10 we read, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” With the troubles we face in today’s world, we may be tempted to think these words of scripture are out of date, meant for another time in the distant past. And yet, they are meant for us today. The dictionary says joy is a feeling of happiness, an emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune. The Bible tells us that it is more. This fruit of the Spirit is evidence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. It is a response to the ways God intervenes in our lives to help us, to save us, to love us. Life can be hard, even brutal, but we have a Savior, and no matter what happens we have confidence that “nothing in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 15:35) This good news of great joy is why we rejoice. May God bless your week with joy! Diane Cooke, Pastor, Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs and Mtn. View more

Today, let’s embark on a heart-to-heart journey through a topic that often stirs up quite a storm—politics. Specifically, why the Christian church should avoid entangling itself in the political arena. This isn't about pointing fingers or igniting debates but rather about seeking wisdom from the Good Book and understanding our true calling. more

As the busy Fourth of July holiday week gets closer, the American Red Cross asks donors to be a powerful force for good by giving blood or platelets now and in the weeks to come. Donors are critically needed right now after a sharp decrease in donations since late spring, say organization officials, noting all blood types are needed, especially donors giving type O blood and those giving platelets. more

The Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce is partnering with local law enforcement, parade organizers and the Lions Club to coordinate a day full of activities and fun to celebrate Independence Day. more

David M. Gohn, president and CEO of West Plains Bank and Trust Company, was elected and installed as chairman of the Missouri Bankers Association (MBA) at the organization’s 134th Annual Convention held June 4 through 6 at the Hilton Branson Convention Center. more

Ozark Action, the West Plains Arts Alliance, Howell County Health Department and University of Missour Extension are partnering to bring a day of arts experiences to West Plains. The event will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. July 16 in the Community Room at the MU Extension-Howell County offices, 1376 Bill Virdon Blvd. in East Towne Village, West Plains. more

Hello fellow food lovers and welcome back to my kitchen! Cool off this summer with a refreshing homemade Italian Ice! It's easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and perfect for those hot days when you crave something light and sweet. more

Summers in the Ozarks are never the same but one constant is agreed, it gets hot!  When the temperature reaches 90 and above mixed in with some humidity at any percent, it's just uncomfortable.  I beat the heat by fixing lighter meals on those days, with more salads and no heavy main course. In the past, I've shared my family's favorite salad, Mexican Salad which I make a lot over the summer, if there are any leftovers, it's good cold the next day too.  Another favorite is the classic potato salad, it's so good I make it year round and is even better made with fresh-dug potatoes from the garden.  There are so many pasta salads that you could never get bored eating this side dish. But, just when I thought I had heard of them all comes a garden favorite made into a summer salad. We enjoy BLT's  (with our homegrown tomatoes) for a light meal with a salad but now you can have both in one dish. This BLT Pasta Salad has all the flavors of the popular sandwich and with the filling factor of pasta. You will want to make this dish for your next barbeque or family gathering, so keep this on the fridge for when you have a day that's too hot to cook. Enjoy and keep cool.  more

Texas County Memorial Hospital in Houston is hosting a “Chillin in the Ozarks” blood drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 12. Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO) will collect blood donations in the Jayson Gentry Community Safe Room on the TCMH campus, 1333 S. Sam Houston Blvd. more

As warmer weather approaches and more time is being spent outdoors, we want to remind Missourians to also take simple steps to prevent illnesses that are spread by ticks and mosquitoes when spending time outdoors. more

Through a mail and electronic ballot, the stockholders of FCS Financial elected three directors who will be installed during the June board of directors meeting, officials announced this week. more

As the Lincoln School in West Plains gathered to commemorate Juneteenth, the air was charged with anticipation and reverence. This year, the celebration was marked by the presence of a man whose life story transcends the ordinary, reaching into the deepest recesses of human resilience and hope. Lamar Johnson, a St. Louis native, stood before the students and faculty, his presence a living testament to the power of perseverance and the unyielding quest for justice. more

When venturing into the wilderness for a summer hike, one of the most critical aspects to consider is hydration. The importance of carrying enough water cannot be overstated, as dehydration can lead to severe health issues, diminish your performance, and turn an enjoyable adventure into a dangerous situation. This article explores how much water you should carry on a wilderness hike in the summer, considering various factors and providing practical tips to ensure you stay well-hydrated. more

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – When it comes to things people are afraid of in the outdoors, venomous snakes top many fright lists. While it’s true people should always give venomous snakes space, it’s equally true that some of the things people fear about venomous snakes are based on things that simply aren’t true. more

Thursday night, the heart of West Plains came alive with the inaugural "Sounds Downtown" event, hosted by the West Plains Downtown Revitalization. Held in the charming Luster Arcade just off Court Square, this new initiative promises to become a staple of our community’s social calendar. With live music, family fun, and a vibrant atmosphere, "Sounds Downtown" is set to bring our downtown area back to life, one musical note at a time. more