West Plains Daily Digest Monday, October 05, 2026
Ty's Take
Bear City Festival wrapped up another year with the kind of turnout that reminds you why West Plains still functions as the real hub of this county. When a community event pulls that kind of crowd, it's not just about the festival itself, it's a referendum on whether people still believe in showing up for each other, and this year they did. Meanwhile the Chamber's got the LEAD program running applications again, which matters because leadership development in a town this size isn't abstract, it's practical, it's about having folks ready when the next business closes or the next board seat opens. On a week when we're also reading about an ATV accident over in Willow Springs and an animal cruelty case out of Norfork, the practical work of keeping this place functioning falls to people willing to step up and learn how to lead it.
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Ozark Radio News
Bear City Festival a Huge Success
The Bear City Fall Festival drew large crowds to downtown Willow Springs on Saturday, October 3, featuring more than 150 vendor spaces, seven contests, and new attractions. The weather cooperated perfectly for the event organized by the Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce.
Applications Open for LEAD Program, Says West Plains Chamber
The West Plains Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications for the 2027 LEAD Program, a yearly initiative designed to develop leadership skills in local residents. The program helps participants gain a deeper understanding of the West Plains community.
Norfork Man Facing Three Counts of Animal Cruelty
A Norfork man with an extensive local arrest history was booked into the Baxter County Jail on Sunday, October 4, facing three counts of animal cruelty. The 40-year-old suspect was arrested by the Baxter County Sheriff's Office.
Willow Springs Man Airlifted After ATV Accident
A Willow Springs man was airlifted to a hospital early Sunday after his ATV struck a stump while traveling on County Road 3780 north of town around 1:50 AM. The 42-year-old rider was not wearing a safety device and suffered moderate injuries.
Graveside services for Randall Roe Deatherage, 74, of West Plains, will be held Monday, October 5 at Free Union Cemetery in Leota. The Robertson-Drago Funeral Home in West Plains is directing arrangements.
Graveside services for Gloria Jean Cowens, 74, of West Plains, will be held Tuesday, October 6 at Jolliff Cemetery in West Plains. The Robertson-Drago Funeral Home in West Plains is directing arrangements, and memorial contributions may be made to Jolliff Cemetery.
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