West Plains Daily Digest Wednesday, July 08, 2026
Ty's Take
You look at a day like this in Howell County and you're seeing the bones of what keeps a place like West Plains alive—not just the hospital upgrades and the new clinics, though that matters when you're forty minutes from anywhere bigger, but the garden clubs and the art shows and a new ag instructor at the college who'll teach kids how to work this land better than the generation before. The Vanzant Picnic this weekend will draw people from three counties the same way it always has, because that's how you build something that lasts. We buried seven good people this week. We welcomed babies. A kid from here made it to West Point. That's the rhythm of it, steady as the stockyard bell on Monday morning, and it's enough.
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Howell County News
TCMH advances patient care through technology investments
Taney County Memorial Hospital is investing in new technology to enhance patient care and services. The hospital's upgrades aim to improve medical outcomes and operational efficiency for the community.
Ozarks Healthcare continues to grow Women’s Health Services with new clinic location
Ozarks Healthcare is expanding its women's health services with a new clinic location. The expansion reflects the health system's commitment to bringing specialized care closer to patients in the region.
Call for Artists: Harlin Museum invites entries for Semiquincentennial Juried Art Show
The Harlin Museum is calling for artists to submit entries in its Semiquincentennial Juried Art Show. The exhibition celebrates the area's 250-year history and welcomes works from local and regional artists.
Mtn. View Garden Club announces the Yard of the Month for June
Mountain View Garden Club has selected its June Yard of the Month winner. The honor recognizes outstanding landscaping and garden design in the community.
Ozarks Healthcare has announced several recent births at the hospital. The healthcare facility continues to serve as the region's primary birthing center for area families.
The local YMCA has received a major financial boost with a $500,000 pledge from supporters. The significant donation will support the organization's programs and facility improvements.
From West Plains to West Point
A West Plains resident has achieved an important milestone by gaining acceptance to West Point. The honor represents recognition of academic and personal excellence for the area student.
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Ozark Radio News
The 60th Annual Vanzant Picnic is this Weekend
The Vanzant community is celebrating the 60th anniversary of its annual picnic on July 10–11, while also honoring America's 250th year of independence. The two-day festival will feature evening activities from 6 to 10 p.m. each night along State Highway W.
Hinds Hired as MSU-WP Agriculture Instructor
Missouri State University-West Plains has hired Clint Hinds, a College of the Ozarks graduate, as an agriculture instructor. Hinds brings expertise in crop production and animal husbandry to the university's agriculture program.
Featured Pet of The Day- Sonny
Sonny, a 1-year-old Bloodhound and Labrador Retriever mix, is available for adoption through The Humane Society of North Central Arkansas. The energetic dog loves outdoor activities and is eager to find a permanent home.
Rex Lane Galloway, 74, of West Plains, passed away and funeral services will be held Thursday, July 9th at Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will follow at South Fork Cemetery.
Barbara Jean Baker, a West Plains native born in 1937, passed away Tuesday, June 30th at West Vue Nursing Center after a long battle with Alzheimer's. She is remembered fondly by her family and friends in the community.
Mary E. Bisbee, 97, of Thayer, passed away and funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 8th at Carter Funeral Home in Thayer. Visitation begins at 10 a.m., followed by burial in Thayer Cemetery.
Bonnie Morgan, 80, of Sharp County, Arkansas, passed away and funeral services will be held Saturday, July 11th at Tri-County Funeral Home in Highland. Burial will take place in Baker Community Cemetery north of Williford.
Tamara "Tammy" Sue Spurlock, 63, of Evening Shade, Arkansas, passed away and funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 8th at Betis Town Church of Christ in Center. Interment will follow at Center Cemetery.
Roger E. Burns Sr., 77, of Winona, passed away and funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 8th at Winona Christian Church. Burial will take place at Mount Zion Cemetery in Winona.
Burnice Lawrence Mace, 57, of Licking, passed away on July 4th and funeral services will be held Tuesday, July 7th at Fox Funeral Home in Licking. Visitation will precede the service beginning at 1 p.m.
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