Whitney Barnes

Whitney Barnes

Autumn’s uninvited guests: The Asian lady beetle

As autumn paints the world in vibrant colors and refreshes the air, it also rolls out the welcome mat for some pesky intruders.Meet the Asian lady beetle, scientifically known as Harmonia axyridis, as stated by the Missouri Department of Conservation.Conservation Agent Chase Wright explains that during the fall months, these crafty little critters are on the hunt for a cozy spot to escape the chill.

Lady ‘Hounds to be under new leadership

DJ Griggs

After five years under the tutelage of Brent Niemeyer, the Sweet Springs Lady Greyhounds’ basketball program will be under new guidance for the 2024-25 campaign.Niemeyer decided to not take on another season as Lady ‘Hounds’ head coach earlier this year and stepped down for personal reasons, and Sweet Springs resident DJ Griggs was hired to take over the reins.Griggs, a 2001 graduate of Maynard (Ark.) High School and a 2005 graduate of College of the Ozarks in Point Lookout, Griggs is no stranger to coaching basketball in the area, as he coached at Trinity Lutheran School in Alma for seven years.