West Plains Daily Digest Saturday, June 06, 2026
Ty's Take
This week you've got everything from a 250th America parade down in Willow Springs to a murder case grinding to a halt, a veteran finding his way back through the VA, and some guy up in Alton who apparently decided to visit other people's homes without an invitation and then hit a deer on his motorcycle for good measure. That's the Ozarks in a nutshell—the best of us building something together while the worst of us remind you to lock your doors. The good news is Richard McGee's new book on the CCC is out there telling the real story of how this region got built in the first place, which beats scrolling through bad news any day. Get out to Willow for that parade if you can. We need the reminding sometimes that we're part of something bigger than just this week's trouble.
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West Plains Daily Quill
Registration open for historic 250th America celebration parade in Willow
The Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce is accepting free parade entries for a historic Independence Day celebration in 2026, aiming to gather 250 participants to mark America's 250th birthday. Businesses, civic groups, families, and organizations of all sizes are encouraged to register through the...
Hiding in plain sight: Author Richard McGee documents Missouri's CCC history
West Plains author Richard McGee has published a new book documenting the Civilian Conservation Corps' lasting impact on Missouri during the Great Depression, from restored mills to fire towers and state parks still standing today. McGee's research revealed that many young recruits were...
Proceedings suspended in WP murder case
A West Plains woman charged with murder in the November 2024 shooting death of her husband has been deemed mentally incompetent to stand trial and committed to the Missouri Department of Mental Health. Brandy G. Wilson, 51, will remain in Howell County Jail until a state facility bed opens, with...
Lanora Sanders crowned winner of Brooke Haven pageant
Ninety-three-year-old Lanora Sanders, a retired teacher with 22 years of classroom experience, won the Brooke Haven Healthcare pageant for long-term care residents in West Plains. Sanders will now compete at the district level in June, with the state winner to be announced at the Missouri Health...
Sports on TV for Friday, June 5
This article contains a television sports schedule listing that requires subscriber access to view in full.
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Ozark Radio News
Alton Man Arrested After Entering Homes Without Permission
An Alton man faces multiple charges after he allegedly entered two homes without permission and was later arrested for driving while intoxicated on June 4. Kevin L. Stewart, 46, was charged following the unauthorized home entries documented by Howell County deputies.
Alton Man Injured After Striking Deer with His Motorcycle
A 45-year-old Alton motorcyclist sustained serious injuries early Wednesday when his motorcycle collided with a deer on Missouri Route P west of town. The crash occurred around 5:45 a.m. while the rider was traveling east on his 2006 Honda motorcycle.
Battling Parkinson’s: Veteran finds strength in VA Whole Health programs
A Vietnam War veteran is managing his Parkinson's Disease diagnosis through comprehensive wellness programs offered at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center. Gary Melton, who served as a helicopter pilot in the 1960s, is finding strength and support through the facility's Whole Health initiatives.
26th Annual Red, White & Blue Festival Returns June 26–27, 2026
The 26th Annual Red, White & Blue Festival will return June 26-27, 2026, on the Arkansas State University-Mountain Home campus, continuing a popular summer tradition in North Central Arkansas. The Mountain Home Area Chamber of Commerce is organizing the patriotic weekend celebration for area...
Featured Pet of The Day- Xena (Update)
Xena, a border collie mix, remains available for adoption through Ozarks Pet Rescue and is seeking a home where she can spend quality time with her family. The people-oriented dog would prefer living with humans rather than other dogs.
SEMA/NWS observe Summer Safety Day June 5
Missouri's State Emergency Management Agency and National Weather Service are observing Summer Safety Day on June 5 to raise awareness about heat-related dangers as temperatures climb into the 90s. Residents are urged to take precautions when spending time outdoors during hot summer months.
SUSPECTS FLEEING WITH CHILDREN IN THEIR VEHICLES FACE SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES
Arkansas State Police leadership is urging parents and caregivers to prioritize child safety by pulling over instead of fleeing from law enforcement, following recent high-profile incidents of suspects evading police with children in vehicles. Col. Mike Hagar emphasized the serious consequences and...
Douglas County Traffic Stop Leads to Arrest of
A traffic stop in Douglas County led to the arrest of a Bruner man on multiple charges after state troopers discovered methamphetamine during jail intake processing. The discovery came during a routine vehicle stop by Missouri State Highway Patrol Corporal D. Johnson.
Construction Alert for County Road 8270 in Howell County
Howell County road crews will begin slab replacement work on County Road 8270 starting Monday, June 8, weather permitting, with drivers advised to expect delays and exercise caution in the area. The county is asking for patience from motorists to help keep workers safe.
The Licking Wildcat baseball team secured third place in the Class 3 state tournament, defeating Scott City 6-1 in Ozark. The St. Louis Cardinals resume their schedule as they prepare to face the Cincinnati Reds.
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