With tax season comes stress for many people, but knowledge and preparation can simplify the process. more

With lofty grocery prices and the world becoming more uncertain with each passing day, many are turning to the land for solace. Homesteading, a lifestyle in which one learns to live self-sufficiently by cultivating the land, resurfaced in mainstream culture in the early 2000s.  more

The Ozark Small Business Incubator is celebrating a milestone year in 2024, with record-breaking numbers on its annual Economic Impact Report. Over the past year, OzSBI dedicated 870 hours to working with 243 unique business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, providing support leading to the successful launch of 18 new businesses. more

The West Plains Public Library has expanded to keep up with the times and remain true to traditional library services while offering community members of all ages and abilities the opportunity to learn, enhance job skills and prepare for professional certification from online sources at home or on public computers at the library. more

In the heart of the Ozarks, where rugged hills and winding trails create a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, a group of young riders is pushing limits, conquering challenges and embracing the thrill of mountain biking on cross-country-style trails. They are the West Plains Composite Mountaineers, a team of student-athletes in grades six through 12 fueled by the desire to test themselves against the elements. more

On Feb. 26, 2023, local residents Christopher Deleon, 40, Eric Jacobs, 46, and Brian Valbert, 26, founded West Plains Underground, an Ozarks-based music promotion collective, to bolster the music scene in West Plains. more

With aging facilities and in recognition of the needs of individuals and families recovering from the trauma of domestic and sexual violence, Christos House continues to move forward with a tiny house project meant to better meet those needs. more

Long-anticipated work on the railroad overpass project on Independence Drive and U.S. 160 in West Plains is said to be smoothly moving along. It has been 17 years since the project was first conceptualized.
"Currently, the project is progressing as expected," saiid City of West Plains Planning Director Emily Gibson. "The project is expected to be substantially completed by the end of 2025." By that time, Gibson said, work should be focused on finishing details, such as restoring vegetation disturbed by the building process.
Asked how the community will benefit from the new overpass, Gibson said it will allow for safe and continuous travel across both Howell Creek and the railroad. more

Bakersfield School has been named one of 50 state winners in the 15th annual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition, and received a Samsung technology package valued at $12,000, including a Samsung Galaxy Book and a Galaxy Z Flip to use for the production of a three-minute pitch video. The video must demonstrate how S.T.E.M. is being applied to address the community issue outlined in the student team's activity plans. more

Mtn. View-Birch Tree Liberty and West Plains schools have announced no classes will be held Tuesday due to forecast icy weather. Head Start programs in both cities, plus in Licking, will also be closed. more

The Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce held its 2025 awards banquet on Saturday at Pine Meadows Venue, catered by Leslie’s Catering. The theme for this year’s banquet was “Taco ‘Bout Willow Springs” and tables were sprinkled with historical trivia about the city. The menu featured a taco bar. more

It’s not uncommon for even small towns to produce one or two self-made artists, but true star quality is rare. Isaac Miles Harrison (who goes by IMH, an acronym for his initials) is one of those stars. more

A highlight of the first West Plains R-7 School Board meeting of the year included an announcement that no new candidates filed for the upcoming school board election, so member Sam Riggs and President Cindy Tyree will retain their seats for another three years, their set to expire in April. more

Recognizing those who go above and beyond to boost the community, the Greater West Plains Area Chamber of Commerce presented its annual awards ceremony Thursday at the West Plains Civic Center.  more

A group including parents of South Fork Elementary students is protesting the transfer of Howell County deputy and Student Resource Officer Shannon Sisney from his post at South Fork which he has held for about three years, and an online petition posted on change.org signed by about 475 individuals as of Friday morning. more

Wages Brewing Company, West Plains Underground and the Avenue Theatre are teaming up to host the Move Wages Downtown Music & Beer Fest from 2 to 10 p.m. Feb. 8 at the Avenue Theatre, 307 Washington Ave. more

With a wall of paintings on display, Johnnie Lee Fullington, 31, West Plains, conducted a show and sale during his art show reception Thursday at the Frame Shop and Gallery, 403 Washington Ave. in West Plains. The event was Fullington's first solo exhibition.  more