West Plains Daily Digest Wednesday, May 06, 2026
Ty's Take
Willow Springs picked up 66 new graduates Friday, which means sixty-some families around here are doing what families do—figuring out what comes next while trying not to let the kids see them getting misty about it. Same week, Ozarks Healthcare opens a clinic right there in town, so at least the young folks heading out won't have to drive as far back home when they get sick. That's the trade of a rural county seat: you send them off to make their way, and you build infrastructure so they've got a reason to come back.
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West Plains Daily Quill
Willow Springs graduates 66 during Friday commencement
Willow Springs High School celebrated 66 graduates Friday night, with valedictorian Karis Cochran and salutatorian Sydney Stuart delivering remarks about facing life's next chapter. The class earned over $908,000 in combined scholarships and was challenged by Principal Nick Schmitt to maintain a...
NCAA rules committee approves robot ump for challenging balls and strikes in SEC Tournament
College baseball is about to get a technological upgrade as the NCAA Baseball Rules Committee approved the Southeastern Conference's experimental use of automated umpires to call balls and strikes during the SEC Tournament. The robot ump system will allow players to challenge close pitches on the...
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Howell County News
OzSBI announces PitchFest finalists to Pitch at EPIC: Growing Beyond the Ozarks for cash and prizes
The Ozarks Small Business Incubator announced finalists who will compete in the PitchFest competition at the EPIC: Growing Beyond the Ozarks event, competing for cash prizes and business development opportunities.
Jasper Holdings, Inc. announces record ESOP share value for 2025
Jasper Holdings, Inc. reported record employee stock ownership plan share values for 2025, reflecting strong company performance and returning value to its worker-owners.
Ozarks Healthcare opens Willow Springs clinic
Ozarks Healthcare expanded its footprint in Howell County by opening a new clinic in Willow Springs, bringing healthcare services closer to rural residents.
Mtn. View Garden Club tours White Nursey
Members of the Mountain View Garden Club recently toured White Nursery, sharing their passion for gardening and horticulture in the community.
‘Freedom requires participation’
A local speaker emphasized that maintaining freedom requires active civic participation from community members in the democratic process.
Ozarks Healthcare recently welcomed several new births at the hospital, celebrating growing families in the region.
A notable public figure was spotted in the area, creating buzz among locals during an unexpected visit to the community.
Willow Springs is preparing to host Hannah Harper Day, a community celebration featuring the American Idol finalist returning to her hometown.
Mother's Day Celebration at Willow Springs Senior Center
The Willow Springs Senior Center hosted a Mother's Day celebration, bringing together seniors and their families for a special occasion.
Ozark Radio News
Video:Grizzly Update: E-Sports Edition
Missouri State University-West Plains' esports program is experiencing historic growth, as Head Coach Nick Lawson highlighted the expanding opportunities for students and alumni in competitive gaming.
Details Surrounding Willow Springs’ Hannah Harper Day Celebration
Organizers of Willow Springs' Hannah Harper Day event released logistical details ahead of the free public concert featuring the American Idol finalist returning home to perform.
Featured Pet of The Day- Elvyra
Elvyra, a friendly and adoptable dog from the Humane Society of North Central Arkansas, is featured as the pet of the day and is available for adoption at local events.
ARRESTS MADE IN DOUBLE SHOOTING INCIDENT FROM MARCH 30TH
Two arrests have been made in connection with a March 30th double shooting incident in rural Mountain Home that left both victims hospitalized. The incident stemmed from a dispute between the two individuals who exchanged gunfire.
Dora hires Dustin Harrill as the new Head Boys Basketball Coach for the Dora Falcons.
The Dora R-III School District named Dustin Harrill as the new head boys basketball coach for the Dora Falcons, bringing experience from successful programs at Summersville and Mountain View-Liberty.
Norwood Man Arrested in Douglas County After Crash
A Norwood man faces multiple charges after a Sunday night crash in Douglas County where he allegedly falsely blamed his wife for driving while showing signs of impairment. The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating the incident.
Cabool Man Facing Several Charges After Traffic Stop
Authorities arrested a Cabool man following a traffic stop in Mansfield that uncovered methamphetamine and two firearms in his vehicle with a 3-year-old child present. The Wright County deputy made the discovery during a routine traffic enforcement stop.
May 16-22 is Safe Boating Week
The Missouri State Highway Patrol reminds boaters to practice safe boating as National Safe Boating Week runs May 16-22, with marine troopers available to inspect required equipment. The campaign aims to promote awareness of water safety practices across the state.
Ozark Radio News – 7AM News, Sports, Weather Broadcast – 05.05.26
Ozark Radio News delivered local news, sports, and weather coverage during its 7 a.m. broadcast on Tuesday, May 5th, keeping the community informed on current events.
TCMH to Host CBCO Blood Drive on May 15th
Texas County Memorial Hospital is hosting a Community Blood Center of the Ozarks blood drive on May 15th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with incentives offered to those who donate. The blood drive aims to maintain adequate blood supplies for area hospitals.
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