Opinion

Drake Thomas: Larger than life — Your tiny human with giant emotions
I am a firm believer that whoever coined the term “No use crying over spilled milk” spent little to no time with children, because if they had, I truly think the phrase would have been “Crying over spilled milk is completely understandable.”
Sheila Harris: Your water is my water
Missouri residents – Southwest Missouri residents, in particular — the quality of our drinking and recreational water is under attack. At a public hearing in Jefferson City Tuesday morning, witnesses for and against Senate Bill 981 were in attendance to present their testimony regarding the bill, which proposes to exclude the phrase “all subsurface waters” from Missouri’s current definition of “Waters of The State.” The change would affect the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) ability to protect our groundwater.
Caleb Ryman: The overflow of forgiveness
In Matthew 18:21-35, Jesus shares a parable about the unmerciful servant, illustrating the profound truth of forgiveness. The story begins with a servant who owes an astronomical debt to his master, a debt he could never repay.
Kyle Troutman: Any time is a good time
I spent enough time at Roaring River State Park over last weekend I probably should’ve just camped. Friday’s March 1 opening was one of the finest in recent memory.
Sheila Harris: Bill may loosen groundwater regulations
Southwest Missouri residents, the quality of our groundwater is under attack. Please consider showing up for a hearing for Missouri Senate Bill 981 in Jefferson City tomorrow (Tuesday) morning, March 5, at 8:30 a.m.

Trout Tales, Feb. 28
Caption this! I was at the 2024 MSHSAA Wrestling Championships at Mizzou Arena last week taking in all the action, the best of which can turn any coach into a walking, talking emoji.

Kyle Troutman: The Troutman I am
For the 11th year, this week I set the earliest alarm of my life. I got up at 5 a.m. on March 1, 2014, to attend my first Opening Day at Roaring River State Park. Outside of overcoming my sleepiness, as I was not much of a morning person in those days, I was excited to cover an event I was told was a local tradition, something you can’t miss if you want to know anything about Barry County.
Ann Houston: Perennials – more bang for your buck
Annuals vs Perennials Annuals last only one season generally, however, in some climates they will bloom year-round. Perennials return every year and cost less because you don’t have to buy them again.

Michelle Hilburn: Love your library!
February is National Library Lover’s Month. As a school librarian and president of the Cassville Area Friends of the Library, it’s not surprising that I love our public library.

Randy Crane: Why we need Lent
The season of Lent began two weeks ago. Some reading this may wonder why that makes any difference.