Viewpoint

We’ve become so used to government gridlock and confrontation as the norm that it hardly seems possible we could see anything but that. Yet, the Lawrence County budget hearing on Thursday turned the tables on expectations, leaving room for optimism about the future...

You could almost hear the collective sigh of relief this week when the announcement came that flexible modular scheduling at Monett High School would end with the present school year. The sigh came from educators outside of Monett. The concept, even more controversial than the four-day school week, presented a wide range of challenges that other school districts did not want to face. ...

Dear Editor: On Thursday, the Lawrence County Commission will present its proposed 2019 budget. We are in the second year of the Law Enforcement Sales Tax (LEST), and with more than 60 percent of Lawrence County being rural, a review of our law and order situation is timely...

Now that we’ve rumbled into a new year full of high hopes, it’s time to consider New Year’s resolutions for our communities, what we’d like to see in the coming year. In Monett, here’s hoping that the old swimming pool site will turn into a beautiful garden or something the public can enjoy just as much. The rubble pile needs to transform into something wonderful...

Monett had a spectacular 2018, far greater than expectations. The old crystal ball at The Monett Times doesn’t shine that bright and hesitates to forecast the same kind of groundbreaking headway for the year ahead. Last year, the forecast spoke well for the business community, with industry orders up. ...

T he focus in recent weeks on Christmas, school projects emphasizing giving and the value placed on caring, leaves a sense that even after the holiday has ended, an impression will be left on children. The message should last far longer than the Christmas season...

When Jon Suit was asked to join the Monett City Council after the resignation of H C. Beckwith in 1995, he fit the mold of a council member though he had never held public office. He was retired, from the Army, with time on his hands, roots in town and interest in service. It seemed like a good fit...

Monett has fond memories of George H.W. Bush, the 41st president, due to his stop here on February 18, 1988. On the week of his passing, it’s worth remembering that this national leader graced us with his presence that made a day like none other for this town...

The shooting incident involving a Verona police officer that took place two months ago and only came to light at this week’s Verona City Council meeting reflects an ongoing problem that cities have dealing with these incidents. It is the function of the press to report these matters, even if they are embarrassing and inconvenient. These are important situations, not only for the officers and the person who was shot — even if warranted —but also for the leadership of the city...

Thanksgiving provides an interesting moment in the life of a community to take stock of its gains. It’s been a good year in Monett with the addition of the downtown park and pavilion. The new mural, thanks to Monett Main Street, and its parking lot, brightened up the downtown even more. ...