The loss of a loved one can have powerful effects on each of us. If you are looking for a caring small group in which to find support, encouragement, and help, then our GriefShare groups might be just the thing you are looking for. This program is a grief support group that features Christ-centered, biblical teaching that focuses on grief topics associated with the death of a loved one. The DVD seminar features nationally respected grief experts, counselors, and real-life stories of people just like you, followed by a small group discussion about what was seen on the DVD. more

OATS Transit is currently offering regular transportation services. To schedule a ride or to inquire about services available in your area, please call the OATS Transit office at 417-887-9272 or 800-770-6287. You can also visit our website at www.oatstransit.org, where you can find your local schedule by clicking on your county under the “Bus Schedules” tab. OATS Transit is available to the rural general public of any age, including seniors and individuals with disabilities. Additionally, we contract with various agencies to serve their clients. We are also hiring drivers statewide, so please share this opportunity with anyone you know who would make an excellent driver, allowing us to continue serving our passengers. Please note that OATS Transit offices will be closed, and regular routes will not operate on Monday, Feb. 17, for Presidents Day. more

DEATHS more

Vera Jewell Cooper more

The Bolivar Herald-Free Press invites residents to send their engagement, wedding, baby, and other milestone announcements. more

DEATHS more

Citizens Memorial Hospital has upgraded its Patient Portal with a new design and improved features. The changes, launched Jan. 14, apply to both the website and mobile app. The URL, app and login information remain the same. more

The first step in new construction is bringing down the old. That process was underway during one of the coldest days of the new year. Rhodes Construction has begun the demolition process of the building site for the future home of OakStar Bank. more

The Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation is now accepting applications for the Medical Excellence Fund scholarships through Feb. 28. more

There is a YouTube channel called “Well, I Never” that discusses a wide variety of topics. It often focuses on British stories, such as old murder cases, weird history, and things that make you say, “Well, I never!” more

I met him in the newspaper more

It’s an odd choice to do a sequel to the 2018 heist movie “Den of Thieves” in 2025. The first film made less than $50 million at the domestic box office and to my knowledge doesn’t have much of a cult following. I didn’t see that film at the time, but I did see it on Max to prepare for the sequel, and was unimpressed. There was some competent action, but the story and characters were unoriginal and unengaging. I would have given it a C-. For such a bland movie to get a sequel at all seems unlikely, let alone one that goes to theaters and isn’t dumped on streaming or Video on Demand. For all I know, that was the plan and then some studio executive noticed there were no wide releases scheduled for this past weekend, so they just threw in whatever they had. The tactic worked, the film took the #1 spot away from the fourth weekend of “Mufasa,” but this is not a movie that I could see succeeding through any means other than a lack of competition. more

SHERIFF’S REPORTS more

National contest winner, parents and teacher will receive trip to Washington, D.C.; entry deadline is Jan. 24, 2025 more

In the SBU Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Classic, the Miller Lady Cardinals (6-5) met the Bolivar Lady Liberators (5-6). more

How well do you know Polk County? more

A storage unit in Bolivar caught fire in the early morning hours of Wednesday, Jan. 15. more

This January, the Polk County Health Center is highlighting the importance of women's health and cervical cancer screenings. As a participant in the Show Me Healthy Women program, the center provides free initial care for cervical and breast cancers which are aimed at improving health outcomes and reducing the risks of cancer through early detection. more

Lace up those running shoes, get out of the den and let the polar bear run during the 46th annual Polar Bear Run on Saturday, Feb. 8. more

Saturday, Jan. 18 more

Three Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation long-term care administrators have been named to prominent leadership roles in state and national healthcare organizations. more

The SBU Women’s basketball team secured their third conference win of the season as they defeated the Lincoln University (MO) Blue Tigers 77-52, on Saturday, Jan 11. The season sweep of the Blue Tigers moves them to 5-8 (3-4 GLVC) on the season. more

Discover God's purpose for your money and relationships through Faith & Finances--a financial education ministry through COM for people who: more

Larry Roy Teters more

Jan. 20 is Cheese Lovers Day AND Penguin Day more