Chris Herbolsheimer

Willie Howard Mays Jr., one of the most iconic figures in the history of baseball, passed away this week at the age of 93. His remarkable career, spanning over two decades, left an indelible mark on the sport, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of athletes and fans alike. This comprehensive article delves into the life, career, and enduring legacy of the man affectionately known as "The Say Hey Kid."

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.

Republican State Senate candidate Travis Smith, who is currently serving as representative of Missouri’s 155th House District, hosted a campaign event last week at Dev's Steakhouse & Piano Bar, 37 Court Square in West Plains.

Today marks a momentous event in West Plains. At 5 p.m., Toney Aid will take down the flag out in front of Aid Downtown Antiques, formerly Aid Hardware, for the very last time. For 5 generations an Aid has owned and operated a business at 1 Court Square. Aid has a photo of his grandfather taking down the flag on the last day of business for the hardware store in the 1990s. It is a bittersweet day for everyone who knows and loves the Aids, but as one door closes, another one opens. In retirement, Toney can finally focus all of his energy on the book project he has spent nearly half of his life working on. The community of West Plains owes a debt of gratitude to the Aid Family that can never be repaid. Their tireless, often thankless, efforts to preserve and restore the historical sites of our beloved downtown has been a lifetime of work. In the heart of West Plains, a town that clings to its history like autumn leaves to a tree, there stands a testament to the enduring spirit of a family business. Welcome to Aid Downtown Antiques, where stepping through the doors is akin to stepping into a living legacy, a tribute to resilience, innovation, and community impact.

On Thursday, the Lincoln School in West Plains was abuzz with political discourse as a moderated discussion took place between three candidates vying for the role of 154th District Missouri House Representative, centered around Howell County.

The right to vote is a cornerstone of American democracy, a fundamental privilege that signifies the voice of the people in shaping their government. However, this right has not always been universally accessible. The history of voting rights in the United States is a long, intricate journey marked by struggles, activism, and gradual expansion. From the early days of the republic to the present, the story of voting rights is a testament to the relentless pursuit of equality and justice. This feature explores the evolution of voting rights in America, highlighting the key milestones and the ongoing importance of civic participation.

In a quaint town in Southern Missouri, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, an unassuming farmhouse stands as a beacon of healing and wisdom. Here, Denise Wayman Scholes, a passionate practitioner of neuro-energy kinesiology, has been quietly transforming lives. Alongside her uncle, Ronald B. Wayman, Denise co-authored "The Complete Mind Body Dictionary," a groundbreaking book that has rapidly soared to the top of Amazon's bestseller list. But this remarkable achievement is just the tip of the iceberg in Denise’s extraordinary journey—a journey that intertwines family bonds, personal healing, and a relentless pursuit of understanding the intricate connections between the mind and body.

As the late summer sun dips behind the rolling hills, casting long shadows across the Ozark Mountains, something special is stirring in these small towns. It’s not just the first day of school that signals the end of summer here in the Ozarks. No, there’s another tradition that sets the pulse of these communities racing—the start of high school football season. In this part of the world, high school football is more than just a game; it’s a way of life. Every Friday night, towns big and small come alive under the glow of the stadium lights, where the roar of the crowd can be heard echoing through the valleys. It’s a time when neighbors catch up, families unite, and memories are made, all centered around the thrill of the game.

Every autumn, as the summer heat begins to fade and a hint of crispness settles into the air, the small town of Gainesville, Missouri, comes alive with the sights and sounds of an era long gone but never forgotten. It’s not just the changing of the seasons that sparks this transformation; it’s the arrival of one of the Ozarks’ most beloved traditions—the Hootin’ and Hollerin’ Festival. The 2024 festival is happening now actually, with today being the final day.

The third annual Downtown Fall Block Party brought lively energy to Court Square in West Plains last weekend, as locals and visitors gathered to enjoy a day packed with food, fun and entertainment. Despite some concerns earlier in the week about rain, the weather turned out to be ideal, with sunny skies and a pleasant breeze making it the perfect day for an outdoor event.