As I write this on Feb. 22, I realize it’s George Washington’s birthday and regret it’s not honored as it was when I was growing up. Back “in my day,” Washington’s and Lincoln’s birthdays were federal holidays on Feb. 12 and Feb. 22, respectively. more

The West Plains Senior Center held special events for Valentine's Day recently, including a contest for best-decorated Valentine box and a King and Queen competition. Valentine Box winners were, from left, Kathy Ruff, first place for her "Castle Fit For a Queen”; May Schmitt, second place for her "I Love To Sew" themed box; Bob Dutton, third place for his "Gnome My Heart" box; and honorable mention went to Debra Hicks for her "Love Boat" box. Dutton was also crowned Valentine King, and Nona Oaks was crowned Valentine Queen during the festivities, which had about 65 attendees. For information about West Plains Senior Center lunches, services and special events, call 417-256-4055 or visit the Facebook page @WestPlainsSeniorCenter. more

Below are several upcoming events at Missouri State University-West Plains, many of which are open to the community. Feel free to clip this calendar and keep it for your reference to make sure you don’t miss any events that might interest you. Also listed are several important dates on the university’s calendar that area residents might want to keep in mind. more

Winners in the recent annual Harlin Museum Quilt and Fiber Arts Show have been announced. more

Truman State University in Kirksville announces Kerrie Sanchez, Licking, earned her Master of Arts degree at the conclusion of the fall semester. more

John Maxwell’s “The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader” offers valuable leadership lessons that apply not just in businesses or organizations but also in neighborhoods. Last week, I shared qualities 1-11 and how they can enhance community engagement and leadership. This week, I continue with qualities 12-21, exploring how they can help build stronger, more connected neighborhoods. more

Saturdays were exciting because the entire family went into town. more

September 21, 2024 –– much like George Strait sang it in 1985, that was when the cowboys rode away. more

On Jan. 18 the Current River Callers and Jacks Fork JAKES held their annual National Wild Turkey Federation banquet in the multipurpose building at Winona School in Shannon County, with about 200 people in attendance. more

Ozarka College in Melbourne, Ark., recently announced 120 students have been named to the president's List and 57 students have been named to the provost's List for the fall 2024 semester. more

All Texas County Libraries are celebrating Take Your Child to the Library Day on Saturday! more

Officials with the University of Missouri in Columbia announce area students who earned a place on the fall semester dean’s list: more

12TH GRADE GOLD more

CMU names fall dean’s list honorees more

Though my “Valentine” isn’t here to bring me a box of chocolates or a bouquet of flowers any longer, we made many happy memories together that help me to celebrate the day every year. more

The three little girls were assigned chores and were expected to complete them without argument. Backtalk, arguing, being “sassy” might bring corporal punishment, which began with Mother saying, in a serious, mildly angry voice, “Go cut me a switch!” more

John Maxwell wrote “The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader,” a short book with big lessons about leadership. This week, I look at qualities from the book and suggest how these can apply to improving our neighborhoods.
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Valentine’s Day, coming up this Friday, Feb.14, has to be one of the most peculiar holidays we celebrated. more