West Plains Daily Digest Friday, June 19, 2026
Ty's Take
Three-vehicle crash near Ozark with a child from Ava injured, a debate tonight between Durnell and Smith, and the usual spring shuffle of seed buying and job postings—nothing earth-shaking on the wire this Wednesday, which is how most of us prefer it. When the big news days come around, they tend to come hard in this country, so we'll take a quiet stretch where the most urgent thing is filling a spot on the Cabool police force and getting folks signed up for softball camp. Jason McCollom's public affairs recognition and that Sunflower Award over at Texas County Memorial remind you that the real backbone of a place like this isn't the headlines—it's the people who show up and do the work without waiting for the cameras. Weather's coming in from the south and the lake's running clear; that's the kind of forecast that matters most when you've got cattle to tend and a season ahead of you.
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West Plains Daily Quill
West Plains Daily Quill has announced upcoming coverage plans for the Deep South region over the next 24 hours. Subscribers can access full details through the publication's website.
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Ozark Radio News
MDC Buying Select Seeds Once Again from the Public
The Missouri Department of Conservation's tree nursery in Licking is once again accepting seed donations from the public. Seeds collected from the community will be grown into seedlings for conservation projects.
Cabool PD Seeking Officer to Join
The Cabool Police Department is actively recruiting for a new officer position. Interested applicants can pick up and submit applications at the department's Cedar Avenue headquarters.
Sunflower Award Given at Texas County Memorial Hospital
Texas County Memorial Hospital in Houston honored certified nursing assistants Christian Neal and Jennifer Hack with the 2026 Spring Sunflower Award for outstanding patient care. The annual award recognizes exceptional service among nursing and surgical support staff.
A Child From Ava Injured in a Three Vehicle Crash Near Ozark
A three-vehicle collision north of Ozark on Thursday morning left three people injured, including a child from Ava. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a Honda Odyssey failed to stop at a posted sign before being struck by another vehicle.
Moderated Debate to Take Place Tonight Between Durnell & Smith
Incumbent Representative Lisa Durnell and challenger Travis Smith will debate tonight at the Mountain View Community Center in District 154's upcoming election race. The moderated event will give voters a chance to meet both candidates.
Jason McCollom honored with Excellence in Public Affairs award
Jason McCollom, history department chair at Missouri State University-West Plains, received the Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Public Affairs. The honor recognizes his ethical leadership and commitment to community engagement.
The Ozark Mountain Conference released its all-conference soccer team for 2026, with local players earning spots on the roster. The St. Louis Cardinals wrapped up a three-game series against San Diego with mixed results.
Weekly Lake Norfork Lake Report
Lake Norfork fishing conditions are detailed in this week's report by Gary Farace. Anglers should consult the latest information before heading out on the water.
Area youth invited to upcoming Grizzly Softball camps
Missouri State University-West Plains is hosting two summer softball camps for area youth. Head Coach Brie Brooks is offering instruction from experienced collegiate coaches to help young players develop their skills.
The San Diego Padres defeated the St. Louis Cardinals 6-1 in the series finale at Busch Stadium. Cardinals designated hitter Alec Burleson extended his hitting streak to 17 games with the team's only run of the game.
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