Opinions
THUMBS DOWN to Representative Durnell, Representative Cook and Senator Hudson for underfunding our public schools and Dolly Parton's Imagination Library this legislative session!
THUMBS UP to the concept of Bailey Legacy (pocket) Park. Sure it's small, but it's enclosed, safe, cute, and...
In last week’s paper, I wrote an article, ‘Architectural bids received for new justice center,’ located on page three in the June 10 edition. That article is my first published writing piece. As a rising sophomore attending the Journalism School at the University of Missouri, having my name in...
Recent media coverage included a headline stating, “Bids Received for Proposed Justice Center.” To provide clarity for residents, The Commission would like to explain the current stage of the project.
Currently, the County has not requested any bids for a new justice center or sheriff...
Dear Editor,
This week, our state representative for district 154, Lisa Durnell, made a post on her facebook page regarding her decision to decline an invitation from the Howell County News for a session with her primary opponent, Travis Smith. In her post, one of her reasons for declining...
THUMBS UP to the parking crew at Liberty High School graduation. Hundreds of cars were parked quickly and easily and exiting was just as smooth. Well done!
THUMBS DOWN to the thoughtless people who took up two parking spaces in a crowded situation like our graduation.
Thumbs DOWN for...
Dear Editor of Howell County News:
I was a previous resident of Willow Springs, MO nearly five decades ago. For that reason, I cannot tell you how proud I was to see Hannah Harper win the American Idol competition this year! I am an avid American Idol fan as it is, and was sooo amazed by...
Greetings friends from District 155!
As the 2026 legislative session comes to a close, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Missouri and deeply honored to represent the citizens of the 155th District in the Missouri House of Representatives.
This session brought...
THUMBS UP to the pinwheels outside the Willow Springs License Office. They’ve been making me smile.
THUMBS DOWN for B. Jackson getting SIS after ripping off thousands of taxpayer dollars.
Graduation season is always a busy time of joy and reflection. In thinking about this piece, I reflected on the numerous classes of Liberty graduates that I’ve had the privilege of following throughout the years, including my own two daughters. Working for the newspaper gave me a unique...
In a world so full of distractions, business, and passive entertainment, why should we make time to read a book? According to the National Library of Medicine, a chapter a day will add years to your life; so grab a few best sellers, a glass of sun tea, and toast to your good health!
May is...

