West Plains Daily Digest Wednesday, September 23, 2026
Ty's Take
Homecoming court gets announced, the Heritage Festival brings families out to see live animals and square dancing, the volleyball team opens at home, and the Chamber's putting together a guide to help folks support local nonprofits. That's the rhythm of a week in West Plains, the kind of news that reminds you why small towns matter. Sure, there's trouble in the headlines too, the kind that shows up anywhere people live, but what sticks is how a community keeps showing up for itself. Ozark Heritage Festival this year marks 32 years of that same impulse, and you don't run something that long without people deciding it's worth their time.
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West Plains Daily Quill
WPHS announces 2026 Homecoming Court
West Plains High School has announced its 2026 homecoming court, recognizing students selected for the honor during the upcoming celebration.
Chamber launches online Giving Guide to support local nonprofits
The Greater West Plains Area Chamber of Commerce launched a new online Giving Guide to help residents and businesses connect with local nonprofits and find ways to volunteer, donate or advocate for community causes. The digital directory, available at wpchamber.com, features organizations across...
Family activities, live animals set for 32nd annual Ozark Heritage Festival
The 32nd annual Ozark Heritage Festival returns to downtown West Plains on October 16 and 17 with free admission and new attractions including a live animal presentation by Dickerson Park Zoo and a chicken-catching event for children. Traditional favorites like the mule jump competition, quilt...
West Plains hosts Midwest art leaders
About 35 representatives from eight Midwest communities concluded a multi-day visit to West Plains as part of the inaugural Midwest Memory Grant program, which supports rural communities preserving local histories through public art and monuments. The Lincoln School Project, the local host...
Texas Co. man faces federal prison following guilty plea
A Licking man pleaded guilty in federal court to sexual exploitation of a minor, drug trafficking and firearms charges, admitting he used a minor to produce child pornography and possessed over 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. John P. Weaver faces 15 to 30 years in federal...
Grizzly Volleyball home opener, tailgate set for Tues.
Missouri State University-West Plains will host a free tailgate beginning at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday at the West Plains Civic Center, followed by the Grizzly Volleyball team's home opener against Mineral Area College. The Grizzly Club will provide complimentary hot dogs, and membership information will...
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Howell County News
TCMH successfully completes CLIA recertification
Texas County Memorial Hospital has successfully completed its Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments recertification, maintaining compliance with federal standards for laboratory operations.
Josiah Howell Sons of the American Revolution holds 3rd Annual Picnic
The Josiah Howell Sons of the American Revolution chapter held its third annual picnic, bringing together members and guests for the organization's traditional gathering.
Josiah Howell Chapter Sons of the American Revolution presents medal
The Josiah Howell Chapter Sons of the American Revolution presented a medal recognizing contributions to the organization and its mission of preserving American Revolutionary history.
JHSAR and DAR participate in Reading of Names
The Josiah Howell Sons of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the American Revolution participated in a reading of names honoring those with historical significance to the region.
Great "ShakeOut" Annual Earthquake Drill coming Oct. 15
The Great ShakeOut Annual Earthquake Drill is scheduled for October 15, providing the community an opportunity to practice earthquake safety and preparedness procedures.
Traditional Square Dancing and Music Workshops featured at Ozarks Heritage Festival
Traditional square dancing and music workshops will be featured at the Ozarks Heritage Festival, offering attendees an opportunity to learn and enjoy authentic Ozark cultural traditions.
A local story highlights two significant events or occurrences happening within a two-week period in the community.
Willow Springs Lions Club Kicks Off ‘Give Like Dolly Day’
The Willow Springs Lions Club has launched its 'Give Like Dolly Day' campaign, encouraging community members to participate in charitable giving initiatives.
Lincoln School Project chosen for Rock Picking Award
The Lincoln School Project has been selected for the Rock Picking Award, recognizing its outstanding work in preserving and elevating local history through public art and community engagement.
Federal charges for Mtn. View man
A Mountain View man is facing federal charges related to an investigation by law enforcement authorities.
Ozark Radio News
Tuesday Morning Accident Injures Mountain Grove Man
A 67-year-old Mountain Grove man was injured Tuesday morning when his 1997 Ford F-150 traveled off the road on U.S. 63 about six miles north of Cabool. The Missouri State Highway Patrol responded to the crash at 10:10 a.m.
Mountain Grove Man Arrested for Felony Possession of Drugs
A 46-year-old Mountain Grove man was arrested by the Missouri State Highway Patrol for violation of probation and felony possession of controlled substances as a repeat offender. Charles Tompkins was taken into custody Monday morning following a traffic stop.
Licking Man Charged with Animal Abuse and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm
A Licking man has been charged with animal abuse and unlawful firearm possession after the Texas County Sheriff's Office responded to a report that he shot and killed his granddaughter's dog. Mitchell Edgerton, a convicted felon, was investigated after the incident on Highway C on September 20.
Wright County Firefighter Charged After Alleged Crash in a Fire Engine
A Wright County firefighter is facing charges after allegedly crashing a fire engine while responding to a brush fire and leaving the scene without reporting the accident. Joseph Wayne Garrison was involved in the motor vehicle accident near Baty Road and Ellis Road on September 19, causing...
Thayer Man Charged with Sexual Abuse of a Victim Under 14-years-old
A Thayer man was arrested and charged with first-degree sexual abuse of a child under 14 years old following an investigation on September 18. Michael Edward Fuller, 35, was initially detained by the Thayer Police Department before an Oregon County warrant was issued for his arrest.
High school volleyball games across the region feature matchups including Salem at Ava, Thayer at Cabool, and Winona at West Plains.
Volleyball Closes Nonconference Slate with Rescheduled Match at No. 1 Nebraska
Mizzou volleyball will face No. 1 Nebraska on Wednesday, September 23, in a rescheduled match at the Bob Devaney Sports Center, with first serve at 6 p.m. CT.
The Zizzer Cross Country teams performed well at the MSSU Southern Stampede in Joplin, with the boys team placing third overall and Hunter Stanley finishing 10th in the varsity boys race.
GRAND SLAM Volleyball TOURNAMENT October 9-10, 2026
Ozark High School will host the Grand Slam Volleyball Tournament on October 9 and 10, 2026, bringing together competitive teams for a two-day event.
Los Angeles Rams Beat The New York Giants On Monday Night Football
The Los Angeles Rams defeated the New York Giants 28-6 on Monday Night Football, with quarterback Matthew Stafford throwing for 327 yards and four touchdowns to secure the team's first win of the season.
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