Wednesday, December 7, 2022

Every now and then, I run across a seemingly random fact that takes up residence in my head – like elephants can’t jump. (It’s physically impossible for them.) Or the fact that certain types of trees won’t let the tips of their highest branches touch the trees next to them – a phenomenon called “crown shyness.” And this week I’ve added another odd fact to my growing collection: A new study finds that octopuses are one of a small group of animals that can purposefully throw things at targets.

I thought one of the perks of making it to middle age would be that we no longer have to suffer the indignities of puberty. No more awkward body changes. No more hormone-induced mood swings. Isn’t time and experience supposed to make us more comfortable in our own skin?

The onslaught of December holiday parties, work functions, and family gatherings is in full swing.

If you grew up more than 50 years ago you are likely a storehouse of obsolete, if not completely worthless, skills.

It’s highly unlikely many people would mention field mice if they were asked to make a list of Missouri’s most important wild mammals.

Southwest Baptist University’s Forensics team competed at the 2022 Riverfest Swing hosted by Park University and Ottawa University on October 14 to 16.The Forensics team took second place in …

The Bolivar High School Speech and Debate team recently competed with many other students from southwest Missouri at their season-opening tournament at Missouri State University.Competing against 22 …

Rachel Marsch, daughter of Charlotte and David Marsch and Colin Ames, son of Christine O’Neil and Chris Ames, have been chosen Student Rotarians for the month of October.School activities in …

Southwest Baptist University is entering into a strategic partnership with Campus Edu. This partnership will equip SBU to reach more students and enhance its online learning experiences.“SBU is …

Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation recently accepted a check for $2,000 from Southwest Electric Cooperative for the Carrie J. Babb Cancer Center at CMH. Donations to the cancer center support services and needs area cancer patients may experience during their treatment including dental care, gas, groceries, nutritional supplements and meals during treatment.

The Bolivar Area Chamber of Commerce kicked off its annual Light the Park event on Friday, Nov. 25. Local residents are invited to drive through the Dunnegan Memorial Park to take a look at all of the Christmas light displays representing various businesses and organizations in the Bolivar community.

OATS Transit services will be unavailable on Monday, Dec. 26, 2022 and Monday, January 22, 2023 for the Christmas and New Year holidays.

See what’s going on in Polk County! Mark your calendars for these upcoming events. Some events may require registration or admission fees; please contact the organization for more details.

The Pitchfork Restaurant’s second annual Holiday Market is set to take place at 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 8.