West Plains Daily Digest Friday, August 21, 2026
Ty's Take
Oregon-Howell R-III just caught a break that doesn't come around often. A state grant to replace a diesel school bus, no cost to the district, means that money stays in the classroom instead of going to a mechanic. Around here where school budgets get stretched thinner every year, a win like that matters more than it might sound. The district still has work ahead, but somebody in Jefferson City remembered that rural schools can't just absorb equipment costs the way bigger districts can. That's worth noting.
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Ozark Radio News
Oregon-Howell R-III School District has secured a grant through Missouri's Volkswagen Diesel Emissions Environmental Mitigation Trust Fund to replace an aging diesel school bus with a cleaner vehicle. The funding from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources will allow the district to make the...
Learn to Make Baskets with the Shannon County Museum
The Shannon County Museum in Eminence is offering a basket-making class led by instructor Reta Barkley. Participants will learn the traditional craft while exploring a skill with roots stretching back through history.
Carter County Sheriff’s Office Introduces New School Safety System & Companion App
The Carter County Sheriff's Office in Van Buren is rolling out a new school safety system called MyFlare that establishes direct communication between schools and law enforcement during emergencies. The department became the first law enforcement agency in the region to adopt the system and its...
City of Mountain Grove Offers Update on Calendar of Upcoming Events
Mountain Grove officials announced a slate of upcoming community events including two rodeos, a hamburger cooking contest, and a class for seniors. City representative Luke Hurtt detailed the activities planned for the Wright County town.
Registration Open for the Bear City Fall Festival
The 52nd Annual Bear City Fall Festival will take place downtown Willow Springs on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendor registration is now open for businesses, organizations, and crafters interested in participating in the popular fall event.
MoDOT Provides Update on Rural Highway Speed Limits
The Missouri Department of Transportation is evaluating which rural highways qualify for a new speed limit increase to 75 mph, with an effective date set for August 28. MoDOT said no changes will be implemented until the evaluation process is complete.
Transfers At MSHP General Headquarters
Colonel Michael A. Turner of the Missouri State Highway Patrol announced personnel transfers effective September 1, 2026, including Major Steven V. Wilhoit moving from the Executive Services Bureau to lead the Criminal Investigation Bureau.
Featured Pet of The Day- Butter
A cat named Butter is available for adoption and looking for a home without dogs and with plenty of affection from her owners. The spayed feline may coexist with another calm cat but prefers a quiet household focused on providing love and companionship.
Willow Springs will host the I Ran From the Cops 5K run or walk on Saturday, September 12, with proceeds benefiting the Willow Springs Police Department and Chamber of Commerce. West Plains Parks and Recreation is also accepting registrations for its Fall Youth Volleyball League, with divisions for...
Weekly Lake Norfork Fishing Report
Gary Farace provides an update on fishing conditions and activity at Lake Norfork. The weekly report helps anglers plan their trips to the region's popular fishing destination.
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