Birthday Blessings, which gets its name from the party supplies and gifts given to foster children on their birthdays, is also committed to other types of support for children of all ages during other important milestones in their lives, from newborns to teens moving out on their own for the first time. more

An open house and musical jam will be hosted from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 26 at Mt. Zion Church in Akers, and all are invited to bring an instrument and join local musicians playing gospel and Ozarks traditional music. more

The Willow Springs Arts Council will host a performance by the Southern Ozarks Community Orchestra, “Spooktacula VII,” at 7 p.m. Oct. 19 at the historic Star Theater in downtown Willow Springs. more

St. Paul Lutheran Church, 291 Kentucky Ave. in West Plains, will hold its annual Christmas Craft and Décor Sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 7 and 8, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 9. more

Arts Alliance member events and activities: more

Dora School District has engaged in a program that allows Missouri beef producers to share their way of life and give back to the communities they serve, officials announce. more

During his yearly State of the University address, Missouri State University-West Plains Chancellor Dennis Lancaster provided an overview of enrollment and degree success, recent program and facilities expansions, and some thoughts about future recruitment and retention. more

The University of Arkansas Jazz Orchestra will perform in concert at 4 p.m. Sunday in the Salem, Ark., Civic Center, 135 Arena Lane. more

Cedarhurst of West Plains invites the community to its 3rd annual Craft Fair, a showcase of the artistic talents of West Plains and beyond, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 19 at the senior living community, 1521 U.S. 63 in West Plains. more

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) reminds hunters of regulation changes for the current archery deer and turkey hunting seasons, including a new fall turkey permit. more

Be a part of something special and help us make Reflection Plaza a reality! Today, we’re excited to invite you to enjoy an exceptional soul food experience with the talented Chef Judy Forbes. For just $20, you can indulge in a mouth-watering soul food plate that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Our goal is ambitious but achievable: we’re aiming to sell 150 meals, and we need your help to get there! more

Gov. Mike Parson has proclaimed October as Pork Month in the state of Missouri, in recognition of the high-quality pork produced by Missouri pig farmers and their families. Missouri’s pork industry ranks seventh in the nation with 3.35 million head, producing more than 6% of the U.S. total, and providing nearly $1.4 billion in value, his office said. more

Get ready for a spine-tingling evening at the historic Avenue Theatre in downtown West Plains as they host a classic horror movie marathon from 3 p.m. to midnight on Oct. 19! If you love old-school thrills, this is a night you won’t want to miss. The marathon will feature timeless favorites like “Creature from the Black Lagoon,” “The Wasp Woman,” “Night of the Living Dead,” and more. Each film is packed with suspense, monsters, and just the right amount of retro fright to get you into the Halloween spirit. more

With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the LORD our God to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah. 2 Chronicles 32:8 more

The story of Jonah is often remembered for its dramatic moments: the prophet fleeing from God, being swallowed by a great fish, and eventually fulfilling his mission to the city of Nineveh. While these elements have cemented Jonah as one of the Bible’s most iconic stories, there is a deeper, more challenging message that extends beyond simple obedience or the power of God’s intervention. The story of Jonah calls us to rethink our understanding of compassion, justice, and even our personal biases toward others—especially those we deem unworthy. 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

Harbor of Hope Full Gospel Church is excited to announce a revival hosted by Pastor Dwight Collins, with guest preacher Curtis Tackitt, starting Sunday, October 20. Located at the corner of 5th and Utah streets in West Plains, the church invites everyone in the community to come and be part of this special event. more