West Plains Daily Digest Friday, July 10, 2026
Ty's Take
Three traffic fatalities in one week across our corner of the Ozarks is the kind of stretch that settles over a community like fog you can't quite shake. You see the names and the routes—Hartville, Wright County, Peace Valley—and you know these roads, know the people who drive them, know that most days they get where they're going just fine. Most days aren't this week. The sheriff's office registering another sex offender reminds us that danger doesn't always come from behind the wheel either. There's a lot happening in our little towns right now that has nothing to do with the Fourth of July celebrations or the stage productions that ought to be lifting our spirits—and maybe that's exactly why we need to pay attention to both, to remember what we're trying to hold together.
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Weather Alerts
Flood Watch
Flood Watch issued July 10 at 4:00AM CDT until July 12 at 1:00AM CDT by NWS Paducah KY
* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...All of southern Illinois, southeastern Missouri, western Kentucky, and southwest Indiana. * WHEN...Through late Saturday night. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and ot...
Ozark Radio News
SHERIFF’S OFFICE HAS REGISTERED ANOTHER SEX OFFENDER
The Baxter County Sheriff's Office has registered a new sex offender in the area. The individual has been classified by the state as a Level 2 offender, meaning moderate risk to reoffend with community notification warranted.
Hartville Man Injured in Wright County Crash
A Hartville man sustained moderate injuries in a two-vehicle crash Thursday evening on Missouri 38 west of town. The Highway Patrol is investigating the 5:30 p.m. collision that involved a Chevrolet Blazer that began skidding.
Two Vehicle Crash Near West Plains Injures Peace Valley Man
A Peace Valley resident was treated for minor injuries following a two-vehicle crash Thursday evening near West Plains. The wreck occurred at the intersection of U.S. 160 and Missouri 17 at 5:50 p.m., involving a Chevrolet Silverado.
Fatal Crash in Hartville Thursday
A Wright County couple was killed Thursday morning when a vehicle suddenly accelerated and struck a downtown Hartville building. The fatal crash happened at 11:14 a.m. on East Rolla Street.
“The Villain of Pine Hollow” Stage Production Begins Shows Today
The West Plains Playhouse opens its summer production of 'The Villain of Pine Hollow' today, with performances scheduled throughout July. Cast member Brie Vandenbulcke recently discussed the show on local radio.
SAR and DAR Hosted 250th Anniversary Celebration with Readings, Fireworks, and Community Support
The Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution held a community ceremony Wednesday evening celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary. The event featured Declaration of Independence readings at two locations followed by fireworks at Zizzer Stadium.
Ava approves one year data center pause
The Ava Board of Aldermen approved a one-year moratorium on data centers, cryptocurrency mining operations, and similar high-density computing facilities within city limits. The temporary pause gives the city time to evaluate the impact of such businesses on the community.
Mountain View Residents Urged to Attend City Meeting Next Tuesday
Mountain View residents are invited to a public hearing Tuesday, July 14, at 6 p.m. at the Community Center to discuss the city's application for a Community Development Block Grant. The hearing will address how grant funds could benefit the city.
Heart of the Ozarks Healthcare Fourth of July celebration in Ava moves to July 17
Heart of the Ozarks Healthcare's 40th annual Fourth of July celebration has been rescheduled to Friday, July 17, starting at 6 p.m. in Ava due to earlier rain forecasts, with fireworks planned for dark.
Local authors to be featured on Ava square
Local authors will gather on the Ava Court Square Saturday, July 11, from 8 a.m. to noon for a book sale and signing event in the gazebo. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet writers and purchase signed copies of their work.
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