West Plains Daily Digest Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Ty's Take
Three hundred West Plains High School graduates walked across that stage Friday night, and somewhere in that crowd were kids whose parents sat in those same seats twenty, thirty years ago—kids who'll stay here, kids who'll leave and come back, kids who'll build on what their folks built. That's how it works in a place like this, generation to generation, and it's worth noting that while the district's bringing in new administrators to lead the schools forward, the real continuity comes from families who believe in sending their young people through those doors. Annie Noblin understood that better than most—she was a teacher first, a writer second, but never could separate the two because she knew this community was her story. We're losing good people and gaining new leaders; that's the Ozarks rhythm, and it keeps turning.
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West Plains Daily Quill
West Plains R-7 names new administrators
West Plains R-7 School District has promoted two experienced educators to new administrative positions within the district.
WPHS graduates 300 in Friday ceremony
West Plains High School celebrated 300 graduates at Friday's commencement ceremony held at the Civic Center, with families and friends filling the venue to mark the milestone.
MSU-WP commencement speaker Hudson tells graduates ‘freedom is a precious gift’
State Senator Brad Hudson addressed Missouri State University-West Plains graduates Saturday, emphasizing the importance of freedom in his commencement address.
Community mourns loss of author, educator Annie Noblin
The community mourns the loss of author and educator Annie Noblin, who died from injuries sustained in an April 20 head-on collision.
Missouri man charged after bomb-making tutorials were allegedly used in New Orleans attack
Federal prosecutors have charged a Missouri man with distributing bomb-making instructional videos on social media that were allegedly used in the New Orleans attack that killed 14 people.
The Missouri Supreme Court has upheld newly drawn U.S. House districts that could benefit Republicans in winning an additional seat in the state.
Editorial Roundup: United States
National editorial writers weigh in on recent political and policy issues affecting the country, including commentary on the Trump administration's tariff efforts.
College Sports Commission wins key NIL arbitration in case brought by Nebraska football players
The College Sports Commission won an arbitration case Monday brought by Nebraska football players, marking a significant early test for the new NIL regulatory body.
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Howell County News
Gala Night at the Harlin Museum
The Harlin Museum hosted a gala evening celebrating the institution and its contributions to the local community.
Caddyshack Classic held in West Plains
Golfers gathered in West Plains for the Caddyshack Classic, enjoying a day on the course for friendly competition.
Annual audit report shows TCMH in strong financial position
Texas County Memorial Hospital's latest financial audit confirms the facility maintains a strong financial position and stable operations.
New criminal charges have been filed in an ongoing Asbury case currently being prosecuted in Howell County.
Organizers, businesses reflect on Hannah Harper Day
Community leaders and local businesses reflected on the success of Hannah Harper Day, celebrating the young athlete and her impact on the area.
The Autism Color Run fundraiser brought the community together and raised $4,000 to support autism awareness and services.
Willow Springs Alumni Celebration May 23
Willow Springs High School alumni are invited to reunite at an alumni celebration scheduled for May 23.
Tony’s Tire celebrates 60 years
Tony's Tire marked six decades of business serving the local community with a celebration of the family-owned shop's longevity.
Mountain View Board makes offer for the position of City Administrator
The Mountain View Board of Aldermen has extended a job offer for the city's next City Administrator position.
The community welcomed home Hannah with celebration and support following her return to the area.
Ozark Radio News
Mountain Home Man Faces Capital Murder Charge After Infant Death
A Mountain Home man faces capital murder charges following the death of his one-month-old infant, with authorities responding to a domestic call at a motel in Faulkner County.
Time Running Out for OzSBI Website Development Grant
The Ozarks Small Business Incubator is reminding applicants that the deadline is approaching to apply for its Brand Building and Website Scholarship Fund, which offers up to $1,000 for web development.
US Forest Service to Host Youth Fishing Day at Ripley Lake
The Eleven Point Ranger District will host a Youth Fishing Day in June at Ripley Lake near Doniphan, welcoming children ages 2 to 15 to fish without requiring a license.
Baxter County Sheriff’s Office Reaches 4-Million Dollar Milestone in Restitution Payments Collected
The Baxter County Sheriff's Office announced it has surpassed $4 million in restitution payments collected for crime victims since 2005.
Mountain View Chamber of Commerce Seeking Parade Entries for 4th of July Celebration
The Mountain View Chamber of Commerce is accepting entries for the town's 4th of July parade as part of the Family Freedom Fest celebrating America's 250th anniversary.
Carol Silvey receives Granvil Vaughan Founder’s Award
Carol Silvey of West Plains received the prestigious Granvil Vaughan Founder's Award during Missouri State University-West Plains' Saturday commencement ceremony.
A local rodeo interview feature captures stories and insights from participants and organizers of the regional rodeo event.
Dennis Eugene Collins, 70, of Pomona passed away Sunday and will be remembered at graveside services Wednesday at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery.
Lillian Faye Maxey, 87, of Villa Ridge passed away and will be remembered at funeral services Saturday in St. Louis.
Wayne Sutherland, 89, of Hartville passed away and will be laid to rest Friday following services at Craig-Hurtt Funeral Home in Mountain Grove.
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