West Plains Daily Digest Tuesday, September 01, 2026
Ty's Take
There's a rhythm to September in Howell County that doesn't need much explaining to folks who've lived it. School's back, homecoming's coming, the Zizzers are in full swing, and somebody's always closing a street somewhere to keep things moving. What matters most in a week like this isn't any single story, it's the texture of it all: a new police chief settling into Ava, the community remembering Vietnam veterans down in Mountain View, families turning out for back-to-school night, the Kiwanis putting money behind the football team. These are the threads that hold a region together. You can see it in who shows up, who gives, who steps into the job when somebody else retires. That's how you know a place is still working.
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Weather Alerts
Heat Advisory
Heat Advisory issued September 1 at 12:42AM CDT until September 4 at 8:00PM CDT by NWS Paducah KY
* WHAT...Daily peak heat index values from 100 to 108 degrees. * WHERE...Portions of southern Illinois, southwest Indiana, western Kentucky, and southeast Missouri. * WHEN...Until 8 PM CDT /9 PM EDT/ Friday. * IMPACTS...Prolonged duration hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesse...
Ozark Radio News
Butterworth named next Ava police chief as Overcast announces retirement
Capt. Butterworth has been appointed by the Ava City Council to become the next police chief of Ava following Chief Overcast's retirement on October 30. Butterworth's promotion marks a leadership transition for the Ava Police Department this fall.
Zizzers Community Homecoming to Bring Alumni and Community Together September 26
West Plains Schools alumni and community members are invited to the Zizzers Community Homecoming on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the West Plains Civic Center. Hosted by the West Plains Education Foundation, the event will bring generations together for food, reconnection, and celebration.
Monks Street to be Closed Today for Paving
Monks Street in West Plains will close from Maple Avenue to Farrell Street starting at 7:00 a.m. for paving work. Residents are asked to avoid the area and use alternate routes during the construction.
Kiwanis Club Donates to Zizzer Football
The Kiwanis Club of West Plains donated $1,000 to support the Zizzer Football Program this fall. District officials say the contribution will help enhance opportunities for student athletes as the season begins.
Oregon County Sheriff’s Report
The Oregon County Sheriff's Office has released its latest report. The report provides an update on recent law enforcement activity and incidents in Oregon County.
8th Annual Vietnam Wall Run Returning Next Week, Sept. 11th
The 8th Annual Vietnam Wall Run will return next week on September 11th to honor veterans with a patriotic two-day motorcycle event. The run will start from three different locations, including Springfield.
Heart of the Ozarks Back to School Family Festival this Friday Night
Heart of the Ozarks United Way is hosting a Back-to-School Family Festival this Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the West Plains Civic Center. The event features camel and pony rides, a petting zoo, bounce houses, and other activities for families.
Featured Pet of The Day- Bertha
Bertha, this week's featured pet, is an animal currently exploring a large outdoor space who prefers affectionate humans. Those interested in learning more about Bertha are encouraged to reach out.
Rebecca Lynn Campbell Brewer, 55, of Salem, Arkansas, passed away on August 25, 2026. She was born February 27, 1971, in Passaic, New Jersey, and dedicated her working years to serving others as a waitress.
Funeral services for Rodney Lee Syth, 67, of Birch Tree, Missouri, will be held Friday, September 4th, 2026, at The Victory Pentecostal Holiness Church in Birch Tree, with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. and the service at 2:00 p.m. Internment will follow at Mt. Zion Cemetery in Winona, Missouri.
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