West Plains Daily Digest Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Ty's Take
Marideth Sisco spent more than four decades writing the stories of this county—the weddings and wrecks, the school board fights, the way people held on through hard times—and if you spent any real time reading the Quill, you knew her voice. She had that gift some journalists carry, the one that makes you feel like she was writing about neighbors, not strangers, because to her they were. West Plains loses more than a reporter today; it loses someone who understood that a small-town paper's real job is keeping the record of who we are. The community foundation recognitions and the college rodeo coming up will get their due coverage, but it'll be different now. Someone else will have to learn what she already knew.
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West Plains Daily Quill
Grizzly Athletics to host college rodeo in fall
Missouri State University-West Plains will host its first home collegiate rodeo October 8-10 at the Heart of the Ozarks Fairgrounds, featuring competitors from 18 regional teams across two-year and four-year institutions. The three-day event marks a major milestone for the Grizzly Rodeo program,...
Dual Autism Color Runs raise $4,000 for local youth programs
Children's Behavioral Services held dual Autism Color Runs in West Plains and Willow Springs on April 18, drawing over 200 participants and nearly 30 volunteers while raising $4,000 for youth programs. The Boys & Girls Club of the Greater West Plains Area and Willow Springs Charitable Events each...
Longtime Quill reporter Marideth Sisco dies at 82
Marideth Sisco, a longtime reporter for the West Plains Daily Quill, has passed away at age 82. Sisco's decades of coverage made her a fixture in local journalism and community reporting.
West Plains councilman, preservationist Crockett Oaks III receives honorary doctorate
West Plains City Council member and preservationist Crockett Oaks III received an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Lincoln University in recognition of his work in public service, military leadership, and community engagement. Oaks, who founded the Lincoln School Project to restore a historic...
West Plains community foundation, board leader recognized by CFO
The Community Foundation of West Plains received a $5,000 Affiliate Action Grant from the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, while board member Jen Anselm earned a Board Member of Excellence award at an April 23 recognition event. The local foundation will use the grant to encourage nonprofit...
South Carolina Republicans press toward House vote on congressional redistricting plan
South Carolina House Republicans are advancing a congressional redistricting plan without Democratic input. The measure is heading toward a key legislative vote in Columbia.
Liberty High School graduates 78 seniors
Liberty High School celebrated its Class of 2026 with 78 graduating seniors, including 38 who earned honors with grade point averages of 3.74 or higher. Co-valedictorians Navraj Kaur and Jade Acklin, along with salutatorian Natalie McNew, led the ceremony, which recognized two graduates enlisting...
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Howell County News
Two juveniles arrested following shooting investigation
Two juveniles have been arrested following an investigation into a shooting incident in Howell County. Details about the case remain under investigation.
Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative, Inc., 87th Annual Meeting of Membership
Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative, Inc. will hold its 87th Annual Meeting of Membership. The cooperative invites members to attend the important gathering.
Howell County Rural Fire Departments receive equipment donation
Howell County rural fire departments have received a valuable equipment donation to support their emergency response operations. The contribution strengthens firefighting capabilities across the county.
Forest Service officials explain Secure Rural Schools Act
Forest Service officials recently held a presentation explaining the Secure Rural Schools Act and its impact on local communities. The federal program affects funding for schools and counties in timber-dependent areas.
DAISY Award given and nurses honored During National Week
A nurse in the region received the prestigious DAISY Award during National Nurses Week recognition ceremonies. The honor celebrates exceptional nursing care and dedication.
Willow school board passes ‘worst case scenario' budget
The Willow school board approved a conservative budget plan that prepares for challenging financial scenarios ahead. The measure reflects concerns about future funding uncertainties.
Mural Unveiling and Grand Opening of Bailey Legacy Park
Bailey Legacy Park officially opened with an unveiling of a new mural in the community. The grand opening celebration marked an important addition to local recreational space.
Willow woman wins American Idol
A Willow woman achieved nationwide recognition by winning a season of American Idol. The local talent's victory brought pride and attention to her hometown community.
Willow Springs student is top 10 in statewide contest
A Willow Springs student advanced to the top 10 in a statewide academic or competition contest. The achievement represents outstanding performance among competitors across Missouri.
Ozark Radio News
Mountain Home Chamber Calling on Volunteers, Vendors for June 26th Red, White and Blue Festival
Mountain Home will celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary with its Red, White and Blue Festival on June 26-27, featuring a parade, rodeo, and car show. The Mountain Home Chamber of Commerce is seeking volunteers and vendors to help make the event a success.
“Stop the Bleed” Class Hosted in Houston, MO. May 27th
Houston will host a free "Stop the Bleed" training class on May 27 taught by the Texas County Emergency Response Team. Residents can learn lifesaving techniques for treating bleeding injuries during medical emergencies.
The Isaacs to Perform Free Concert in Mountain Grove
Mountain Grove is hosting a free concert featuring The Isaacs, a Grand Ole Opry bluegrass and country-gospel group, on September 12 at 2 p.m. The internationally touring band will perform for the community as part of the city's entertainment programming.
Wright County Sheriff’s Office Warns of New Scam
The Wright County Sheriff's Office is warning residents about a text message scam impersonating the USPS and requesting package delivery information. Citizens should avoid clicking links in unsolicited messages claiming to be from postal services.
Lincoln University of Missouri Honors West Plains Preservationist Crockett Oaks III at Commencement
Lincoln University of Missouri honored West Plains preservationist Crockett Oaks III with an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters at its May 9 commencement ceremony. The award recognizes his dedication to preserving historical sites while contributing to current community development.
SEX OFFENDER ARRESTED FOR FAILING TO REGISTER
The Baxter County Sheriff's Office arrested a 51-year-old man on May 19 for failure to register as a sex offender. The arrest came after a citizen tip led deputies to confirm the individual was living in the county unregistered.
Featured Pet of The Day- Bandit
Bandit, an 8-month-old black mixed-breed dog, is available for adoption through the Humane Society of North Central Arkansas. The playful pup is seeking a loving home and enjoys human interaction.
MSHP Annual Torch Run Takes Place Today Despite Rain
Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers completed their annual Law Enforcement Torch Run in Willow Springs despite rainy conditions. The event raises awareness and funds for Missouri Special Olympics.
Third Graders Join MDC and Partners on Pollinator Project in West Plains
Third graders from Southfork Elementary joined the Missouri Department of Conservation to plant pollinator gardens in West Plains downtown. The students helped plant 17 flower beds in partnership with the city and Downtown West Plains organization.
Thursday Food Truck Day’s Return this Week Amid Other Events in West Plains
Food Truck Thursday is returning to West Plains this week alongside other community events including a presentation and ceremonial gathering next Monday. Locals can enjoy dining options and activities throughout the week.
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