Lake of the Ozarks Daily Digest — Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Ty's Take
The federal ruling that just declared video gaming illegal across Missouri is going to hit our local economy hard — those machines generate serious revenue for bars, restaurants, and other small businesses around the Lake that are already struggling with seasonal ups and downs. Meanwhile, the house fire in Linn Creek overnight reminds us how quickly things can go sideways in our smaller communities where volunteer fire departments are stretched thin and every second counts. It's a perfect example of why we need to keep investing in our emergency services and infrastructure, not just the tourism attractions that get all the headlines.
Lake Expo
K-9 Freya Back On Patrol With New Osage Beach Handler
Police dog Freya has returned to active duty with the Osage Beach Police Department, now paired with a new handler. The K-9 team is back on patrol after completing their training and certification process.
Progress, Not Perfection: How Healthy Habits Can Stack Up One Step at a Time
A new health and wellness article focuses on building sustainable healthy habits through gradual progress rather than expecting immediate perfection. The piece emphasizes taking small, consistent steps toward better health outcomes.
4 Tips to Maximize Nutritional Goals While On a GLP-1
Health experts share four key strategies for maintaining proper nutrition while taking GLP-1 medications. The guidance aims to help patients maximize their health goals during treatment with these medications.
Stopping Cold Spots: 4 Tips to Improve Home Comfort
Home comfort specialists offer four practical tips for eliminating cold spots throughout houses. The advice helps homeowners improve heating efficiency and maintain consistent temperatures in all rooms.
Avenue Roofing on How Live Oaks Affect Roof Lifespan in Riverside and Avondale
Avenue Roofing has released information about how live oak trees impact roof durability in the Riverside and Avondale areas of Jacksonville, Florida. The company's analysis examines the relationship between tree coverage and roofing material lifespan.
Wild Range Associates in Webb City is urging Missouri businesses to maintain year-round bookkeeping practices as tax season approaches. The accounting firm emphasizes that consistent record-keeping throughout the year makes tax preparation more efficient and accurate.
Complete SEO Expands Managed SEO Services with Proprietary AI Tools to Strengthen Client Performance
Complete SEO, an Austin-based company, has enhanced its managed search engine optimization services by incorporating new artificial intelligence tools. The company reports these proprietary AI systems will improve client website performance and search rankings.
Caterpillar Bolsters Mining Technology Solutions with RPMGlobal Acquisition
Caterpillar Inc. has acquired RPMGlobal Holdings Limited, an Australian mining software company, to expand its technology offerings. The acquisition strengthens Caterpillar's portfolio of data-driven mining solutions and operational planning tools for the industry.
Amana Care Clinic Announces Enhanced Walk-In Medical Services for Davenport Region
Amana Care Clinic has expanded its walk-in medical services for residents in the Davenport, Iowa region. The enhanced services provide more convenient access to healthcare without requiring appointments.
Hormel Foods has released preliminary first quarter 2026 results showing expected net sales of $3 billion. The company reported 2% organic net sales growth and reaffirmed its full-year financial guidance.
KRMS Radio
Video Gaming Ruled Illegal by a Federal Judge, MO House to Debate a State-Run Video Lottery System
The Missouri House of Representatives will debate legislation to create a state-run video lottery system following a federal judge's ruling that current video gaming is illegal. The proposed bill would replace existing games with a government-operated alternative.
Late Night Fire Damages House in Linn Creek
A house fire on Winter Wood Loop in Linn Creek late Monday night caused significant damage, with investigators attributing the blaze to an electrical problem. Firefighters from Osage Beach and Mid-County fire departments responded to the 800 block incident.
New Youth Program Center To Be Built In Lebanon Area
Project 360 Youth Services is constructing a new youth center called "The Sound" in Lebanon to provide a safe space for area young people. The facility represents an expansion of special youth programming in the community.
MODOT To Update Navigational Lights On Phylicia Carson Bridge This Week
MoDOT will replace boat navigation lights on the Phylicia Carson Memorial Bridge this week, causing temporary road closures and lane restrictions on Highway 54 in Osage Beach. Drivers should expect delays while crews complete the lighting updates.
Columbia Regional To Add Up To 600 Parking Spots
Columbia Regional Airport plans to add up to 600 new parking spaces to accommodate growing demand. The expansion will make parking more accessible for Lake Area residents traveling through the regional airport.
Mill Creek Residents On The Watch For Dangerous Dogs
The Doolittle Fire District is warning Mill Creek area residents about an aggressive pack of wild dogs that have been attacking people. Officials recommend residents stay indoors and avoid confronting the dangerous animals.
Large Number Of Arrests Reported By Benton Sheriff’s Office
Benton County Sheriff's Office reported 17 arrests since February 9th during a busy week of law enforcement activity across the region. The arrests included Teresa among the suspects taken into custody on various charges.
Royals And Cardinals Prepare For Spring Training With Opposite Expectations
The Kansas City Royals and St. Louis Cardinals have begun full squad workouts for spring training with contrasting expectations for the 2026 season. Exhibition games are scheduled to begin later this week as both teams prepare for the upcoming season.
Annual CVB Dinner Approaching Fast – RSVPS Requested By March
The Lake of the Ozarks Convention and Visitor Bureau's annual dinner will be held at the Lodge of Four Seasons on Tuesday, featuring chicken piccata and eight-ounce sirloin entrees. RSVPs are requested by March for the upcoming event.
Jeff City Man Facing Property Damage Charges In Miller County
Asa Pezley, 23, of Jefferson City was arrested by highway patrol Sunday morning in Miller County on property damage charges. The patrol report indicates Pezley was driving while under the influence of an intoxicating substance.
Rural News Wire is a daily local news digest for Lake of the Ozarks and rural America. We aggregate and curate — original reporting belongs to the sources linked above. Support local journalism by visiting their sites.
Subscribe free to get this digest in your inbox every morning.