West Plains Daily Digest Wednesday, July 22, 2026
Ty's Take
Jasper Engines making TIME's list of America's best private companies is the kind of news that reminds you why this region holds its own—a homegrown operation that built something real and kept building it, right here where the work gets done. Meanwhile, West Plains schools are setting aside reserves above target, the library's hunting for a new director, and the city's still sorting out what Butler Park ought to be when it grows up. On a Monday like this, with candidate forums tonight and the Fall Festival vendor booths opening up, you see a place doing the unglamorous work of staying viable—not waiting on somebody else to fix the roads or fill the staff slots, just moving forward the way these towns always have. That's worth noticing.
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West Plains Daily Quill
City addresses questions over Butler Children’s Park upgrades
West Plains city leaders are fielding community questions about upgrades planned for Butler Children's Park. The project aims to modernize the aging recreational facility with new amenities for local families.
Dora man flown to Springfield after late-night crash
A Dora man was airlifted to Springfield following a serious late-night vehicle crash. Details on the condition of the driver and circumstances surrounding the accident were not immediately available.
Misdemeanor plea ends 1980s abuse case
An 80-year-old Ozark man pleaded guilty to misdemeanor sexual abuse stemming from alleged incidents in the mid-1980s, receiving a one-year jail sentence and mandatory sex offender registration. Three women came forward with allegations dating back nearly four decades, with the man admitting to the...
Vendor registration opens for 52nd annual Bear City Fall Festival
The Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce is now accepting vendor registrations for the 52nd Annual Bear City Fall Festival on October 3. Organizers expect booth spaces to fill quickly and encourage craft vendors, food sellers, and community organizations to apply early through their online...
Reminder: Candidate debates tonight at WP Civic Center
A free candidate debate tonight at the West Plains Civic Center will feature Howell County officials discussing ballot amendments, followed by legislative and judicial races. The public event starts at 6 p.m. and welcomes audience questions for the legislative candidates.
Expanded programming highlights return of Ozark Heritage Festival in October
The Ozark Heritage Festival returns to downtown West Plains on October 16-17 with expanded programming, live music, and a new animal exhibit from Dickerson Park Zoo. Organizers are seeking vendors, craft demonstrators, and volunteers to support the two-day free event.
Mo. legislators lead charge to enhance missing persons alert systems
Missouri's congressional delegation is backing federal legislation to improve missing persons alert systems for people with intellectual disabilities like dementia and autism. The bill mirrors efforts in the state legislature and would grant law enforcement additional resources and specialized...
Neighbor dispute escalates into violent assault, multiple criminal charges
A long-running neighbor dispute in West Plains escalated into a violent May assault, resulting in criminal charges against four men. One suspect faces a felony harassment charge while three others face assault charges, with security footage documenting part of the violent confrontation.
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Howell County News
JHSAR reading of Declaration of Independence
The Daughters of the American Revolution held a public reading of the Declaration of Independence as part of their community service programming. The event brought together local residents to honor the nation's founding document.
Jester graduates from MBA Banking Leadership Missouri Program
A local banking professional has completed the prestigious MBA Banking Leadership Missouri Program. The graduate is now equipped with advanced skills in financial management and leadership.
Jasper Engines and Transmissions included in TIME America’s Best Private Companies 2026 list
Jasper Engines and Transmissions has been named one of TIME America's Best Private Companies for 2026. The recognition highlights the local manufacturer's strong business practices and industry leadership.
Mtn. View Garden Club awards the July Yard of the Month
The Mountain View Garden Club announced its July Yard of the Month award winner. The monthly recognition celebrates local residents' efforts in landscaping and yard beautification.
Protected left turn coming to Mountain View
Mountain View is installing a protected left turn signal at a local intersection. The traffic safety improvement aims to reduce accidents and improve traffic flow for drivers.
Mountain View streets looking at grant
Mountain View city officials are pursuing grant funding to address street maintenance and infrastructure needs. The effort could bring state or federal resources to improve local roadways.
W.S. City employees recognized
The City of West Plains honored its municipal employees for their dedicated service and contributions to the community. The recognition celebrates the staff's commitment to local government operations.
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
A local library program is encouraging young children to read 1,000 books before entering kindergarten. The initiative supports early literacy development and parent-child engagement.
WS schools set to build reserves, exceeding target
West Plains schools are on track to build financial reserves that will exceed the district's target. The strong fiscal planning positions the school system for future needs and stability.
Proposed tax to add indoor sports complex, other needs from Comprehensive Plan
West Plains is considering a tax proposal to fund an indoor sports complex and other community projects outlined in a comprehensive plan. The measure would address recreational and infrastructure needs identified by city leaders.
Ozark Radio News
Back to School Immunizations Fridays at Howell County Health Department
The Howell County Health Department is offering back-to-school immunizations every Friday during convenient morning and afternoon hours with no appointment needed. Families are encouraged to plan ahead rather than waiting until school starts.
City of West Plains Seeking New Library Director as Greg Carter Resigns
Greg Carter is stepping down as director of the West Plains Public Library to accept a communications manager position with Columbia Public Schools. The city is now recruiting candidates to fill the library leadership role.
Auditor Fitzpatrick initiates petition audit of the City of Salem
Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick has launched a petition audit of Salem's municipal government following requests from concerned citizens. The comprehensive review will examine the city's governmental operations and financial practices.
Ozarks Healthcare Adds Board-Certified General Surgeon Dr. Sneha Teressa to Surgery Team
Ozarks Healthcare has welcomed Dr. Sneha Teressa, a board-certified general surgeon with expertise in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, to its surgical team. The addition expands advanced surgical care options for regional patients.
Featured Pet of The Day- Romeo
Romeo, a 2-year-old Chihuahua-Dachshund mix, is available for adoption through The Humane Society of North Central Arkansas. The friendly dog is eager to find his forever home after spending considerable time in shelter care.
Multiple cooling shelters have opened across the region to provide relief during hot weather. West Plains and area communities are offering air-conditioned spaces with extended hours for residents seeking escape from the heat.
Ozark Radio News – 7AM News Broadcast – 07.21.26
Ozark Radio News delivered its regular morning broadcast with local news, sports, and weather updates for Tuesday, July 21st. The program provided listeners with current information on regional events and forecasts.
County Road 104 in Oregon County Rebuild Starts Wednesday
Heavy road construction equipment will be operating on County Road 104 in Oregon County beginning Wednesday as rebuild work commences. Officials urge drivers to reduce speed and exercise caution in the project area.
Ava Teen Held on No Bond After Alleged Shooting
An 18-year-old Ava resident has been arrested and held without bond following an early morning shooting incident in Douglas County. Deputies located the suspect's vehicle and recovered evidence related to the alleged crime.
West Plains City Official Addresses Community Backlash Surrounding Butler Park Renovation
West Plains city officials are defending Butler Park renovation plans after online backlash over the demolition of 20-year-old playground equipment. The project aims to replace aging structures with new facilities despite community concerns about timing and disposal methods.
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