Though we do not see many expressions of it locally, June is recognized as LGBTQ Pride Month, a celebration of people enjoying the freedom to be who they are. The LGBTQ (Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) community has over the past few years found a greater level of acceptance, but much more can be done, especially in our area...

Though the cool temperatures and recent rains are a far cry from the norm, the release of children from school and the arrival of June means one thing — summer is coming. I, for one, cannot be more ready after this spring’s events. I have been scooting throughout Barry and Lawrence counties for the past few months covering the eight school districts and more than 25 spring athletics programs in our newspapers’ coverage areas, and while I enjoy the job, I’m due for a few nights at home...

Dear Editor: One cannot name a street or church or school that has not faced a death during this past year. Death affected all ages and came dressed in both normal and abnormal costumes. Not every death certificate said COVID. First, as a chaplain, I want to pause and thank the ambulance drivers and every staff member at our funeral homes. These silent Heroes went 24-7 to be sure the sick and dying and deceased were taken care of appropriately...

Monday marks a sobering day for the nation, as we are called to remember those who have made the supreme sacrifice for this country and for our freedom. This Memorial Day is shaping up to be a special one for the Monett area, and suggestions on this page in the last two weeks may lend to more recognitions in the future...

Dear Editor: Last week, Mr. Donnie Ellis submitted to your paper a proposal that a portion of North Highway H be named after Sgt. James Ballay, KIA in 1970 Cambodia. In support of this proposal, I put together a set of more than 70 PowerPoint slides that included remembrances and photos of Vietnam-Cambodia by Jimmy’s fellow Screaming Eagles and tried to deliver them to city hall, only to be told that, “No one in a position of authority was available to speak with me.”...