West Plains Daily Digest Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Ty's Take
Forty-five thousand birds during spring season tells you the turkey hunting's been good around here, which means come fall the woods'll be thinner and the freezers fuller—that's how this country works, season to season, and it's honest work that keeps people fed and connected to land that's fed their families for generations. Meanwhile, the meth arrests keep coming in ones and twos, the kind of steady grind that says our law enforcement's doing the work but also that the work never really stops. On a slow news week in May, that's the real picture of Howell County: folks doing what they've always done, and the rest of us trying to keep things from coming apart at the seams.
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West Plains Daily Quill
Today in History: May 12, tens of thousands die in Sichuan earthquake
Today marks the anniversary of the devastating 2008 Sichuan earthquake in China that claimed tens of thousands of lives. The 7.9 magnitude quake remains one of history's deadliest natural disasters.
Missouri's new US House map goes to court while Louisiana and South Carolina consider redistricting
Missouri's state supreme court is hearing arguments Tuesday challenging new U.S. House district boundaries approved during the Trump administration. Meanwhile, lawmakers in Louisiana and South Carolina are considering whether to redraw their own congressional maps.
The Mid-South Lookahead Digest provides a preview of upcoming regional news coverage planned for Kentucky and surrounding areas in the next 24 hours.
The Deep South Lookahead Digest outlines planned news stories from Alabama and other Deep South states for the coming day.
Missouri running back Ahmad Hardy is in stable condition after being shot at a concert
University of Missouri running back Ahmad Hardy is recovering in stable condition after being shot at a concert in Mississippi, school officials confirmed Monday. No further details about the incident were immediately available.
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Ozark Radio News
Carter County Sheriff’s Office Announces Four Arrests in Relation to Methamphetamine Investigations
The Carter County Sheriff's Office announced four arrests this week following two methamphetamine distribution investigations. Officers executed search warrants in Ellsinore and Van Buren as part of the ongoing drug enforcement effort.
Isabella Man Facing Felony Burglary Charge After Theft
An Isabella man is facing felony burglary charges for allegedly stealing from a Phillips 66 gas station in Gainesville on April 30. The suspect broke a jar of moonshine during the theft, according to witness statements.
Izard County Sheriff’s Office Seeking New Deputy
The Izard County Sheriff's Office is accepting applications for a deputy position that includes holiday pay, paid vacation, 90% health insurance coverage, retirement benefits, and a take-home patrol car.
“Red, White, and Bulldog Blue” Announced as Cabool July 4th Festival
Cabool's Chamber of Commerce has unveiled plans for this year's July 4th celebration, officially named the 'Red, White & Bulldog Blue 4th of July Block Party.' The ticketed event will feature live entertainment and a beer garden.
West Plains Man Facing Multiple Charges
A West Plains man faces multiple felony charges after deputies say he assaulted a woman and endangered three children during a domestic disturbance on May 9. The suspect allegedly bit and pushed the victim to prevent her from leaving their home.
MDC reports hunters took 45,475 birds during regular spring turkey season
Missouri hunters harvested 45,475 turkeys during the regular spring season ending May 10, with youth weekend additions bringing the total to 50,730 birds. Macon, Callaway, and Franklin counties led the state in turkey harvest.
Hannah Harper is Your American Idol
Willow Springs native Hannah Harper won the latest season of American Idol on Monday's finale, defeating finalists Jordan and Keyla after competitive performances. Harper earned the title during the three-hour broadcast on ABC.
Joe Leon Harris, 81, of West Plains passed away and will be remembered at a celebration of life service Sunday, May 17 at First Christian Church. Visitation is scheduled for Saturday at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.
Ronald Lee Rogers, 75, of West Plains died at his home Monday, May 4, and is survived by his wife Margie. Rogers was a longtime area resident who worked in the community until his passing.
Joan Lillian Furnari, 93, of Cherokee Village passed away May 4 surrounded by family. She was a business owner and operator of National Tailor, known for her creative and skilled work in the community.
Rural News Wire is a daily local news digest for West Plains and rural America. We aggregate and curate, original reporting belongs to the sources linked above. Support local journalism by visiting their sites.
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