West Plains Daily Digest Thursday, June 18, 2026
Ty's Take
The Boys & Girls Club feeding kids through the summer while parents work harvest and hay season—that's the kind of thing that doesn't make the weather forecast or the state news, but it's exactly what holds a county together when things get stretched thin. Regina Coatney's passing, Steve Ladd coming through Saturday night, the Thayer PD hiring, Skyfire coming back in 2026—a slow week on paper, maybe, but it reads like a town taking care of its own and looking ahead. That's West Plains staying West Plains.
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West Plains Daily Quill
West Plains Daily Quill has published a 24-hour coverage outlook for the Great Plains region featuring upcoming stories from Minnesota and beyond. The full content requires a subscription to their newly redesigned website.
West Plains Daily Quill's 12-hour coverage plan for the Great Plains includes stories from Minnesota. Subscribers can access full details on the publication's updated website.
West Plains Daily Quill has released a 12-hour news preview for the Deep South region with coverage planned from Georgia. Complete story details are available to subscribers of their website.
A look at recent deadly aviation accidents in the US
Federal investigators are examining three separate aircraft crashes that killed 21 people across Missouri, California, and Texas in recent days. The incidents involve different aircraft models and remain under active investigation.
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Ozark Radio News
Regina Marilyn Coatney, 71, of Pomona, Missouri, passed away Sunday at her home surrounded by family. She was born in St. Joseph in 1954 and was a graduate of Cabool High School.
Steve Ladd Performing Saturday in West Plains
Musician Steve Ladd will perform this Saturday at the First Free Will Baptist Church in West Plains with free admission and love offerings accepted. The performance is organized by local community members.
Boys & Girls Club of West Plains Providing Free Meals to Youths During Summer
The Boys & Girls Club of West Plains is providing free lunches to area youth throughout the summer as part of its Meet Up and Eat Up program, running Monday through Friday. The program offers meals at no cost to participants.
West Plains Police Department Reports
The West Plains Police Department released its weekly incident report covering June 8 through June 14, 2026. Details of the department's activities during this period are available in the full report.
SKYFIRE RETURNS TO WEST PLAINS IN 2026
SkyFire, West Plains' popular Fourth of July celebration, is returning this year on July 3 after a 12-year absence at the Heart of the Ozarks Fairgrounds. The event features fireworks at dusk, food trucks, and gates opening at 5 p.m.
Governor Kehoe Announces Two Judicial Appointments
Governor Mike Kehoe announced judicial appointments including Joseph L. Hensley of Joplin to the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District. Hensley previously served as a Circuit Judge in the 29th Judicial Circuit.
Thayer PD Seeking New Police Officer
The Thayer Police Department is actively recruiting a full-time police officer position with competitive salary and comprehensive benefits. Qualified Missouri POST-certified candidates with strong work ethic are encouraged to apply.
Davis Featured in 2026 Missouri FFA Administrators Booklet
Dr. Wesley Davis, superintendent of West Plains R-7 School District, was recognized in the 2026 Missouri Administrators Advancing Agricultural Education booklet for his work in FFA and cattle farming. Davis has served in the district since 2016.
Featured Pet of The Day- Fuzzlight Year
Fuzz Lightyear, a 3-month-old tabby mix kitten, is available for adoption through the Humane Society of North Central Arkansas. The playful young cat loves exploring and making new friends.
JJ, a happy and loyal dog, is available for adoption through Mountain Grove Animal Control and is looking for his forever family. This friendly companion is ready to brighten someone's home.
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