Spring Cleanup Week
April 21–25 (Monday–Friday, on your regular trash pickup day)
The City will collect extra items for free — just sort them properly:
Regular Trash: Bagged or boxed waste
Large Items: Furniture, mattresses (must be wrapped!)
Metals & Appliances: Must have certified Freon removal stickers on fridges/freezers
Yard Waste: Bagged leaves/grass—no brush pickup, but you can take brush to the Transfer Station (1851 Old Airport Road) for free this week only
Recyclables: Put in or near your red recycle bin
Bonus: Earth Day is April 22 — let’s make this a clean, green week to remember!
Not accepted: Hazardous waste, renovation debris, or items piled on trailers/trucks. Please box & label broken glass.
Need tires picked up? Call 417-255-2330 to schedule. Fees apply.
Questions? Same number — 417-255-2330
Oz-Con is a gaming, cosplay and anime convention nestled in the Ozarks. The convention is hosted by Always a Future for Kids and students from The Game Changers student organization at Missouri State University-West Plains; all proceeds go to support Always a Future for Kids. The three-day event will have a little bit for everyone including Cosplay Events, Collector Card Games, such as Magic, Warhammer 40k, Role Playing Games, and much more. Come help support a good cause, browse the various vendors, join a workshop, and meet celebrities on April 25 – April 27, 2025.
Registration now open. Go to oz-con.com for complete details. Oz-Con on Facebook.
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.
See Triple H RC Raceway on Facebook for details.
Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.
From organizers: Join us for a 3-Man Tournament at North Terra Golf Course. Tee time is 10:00 AM, and the entry fee is $300 per team. Prizes will be awarded on every hole, and there will be 2 side game challenges. All proceeds will benefit Howell County Special Olympics. Sign up today at the North Terra Golf Clubhouse. For questions, call Vanessa at 417-256-3131.
Performances Dates – April 24, 25, 26, 27, 29 and May 1, 2, 3, 4 (weekdays and Saturdays at 7PM & Sun at 3PM). West Plains Playhouse on Facebook for more information.
This is a recurring (first Friday of every month) event scheduled by Dev’s Steakhouse Piano Bar Lounge. Please check with them for details and potential cancellations.
Oz-Con is a gaming, cosplay and anime convention nestled in the Ozarks. The convention is hosted by Always a Future for Kids and students from The Game Changers student organization at Missouri State University-West Plains; all proceeds go to support Always a Future for Kids. The three-day event will have a little bit for everyone including Cosplay Events, Collector Card Games, such as Magic, Warhammer 40k, Role Playing Games, and much more. Come help support a good cause, browse the various vendors, join a workshop, and meet celebrities on April 25 – April 27, 2025.
Registration now open. Go to oz-con.com for complete details. Oz-Con on Facebook.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.
See Cars & Coffee April 2025 at Craft Cafe on Facebook for more info.
See Triple H RC Raceway on Facebook for details.
Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.
A special social event for artists and their families, as well as the general public, will take place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The awards ceremony will begin at 3:00 p.m. Artwork will be available for pickup after the ceremony. For those unable to attend the event, paintings can also be collected from the museum the following week, Thursday through Sunday, between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. We look forward to seeing the incredible talent our community has to offer and invite all local artists to participate in this exciting event!
For additional information please contact Cleo, president of the Harlin Museum Board, 417-293-9534, or via email at .
Performances Dates – April 24, 25, 26, 27, 29 and May 1, 2, 3, 4 (weekdays and Saturdays at 7PM & Sun at 3PM). West Plains Playhouse on Facebook for more information.
Check the Country Express Band Facebook page for cost and other details, including potential cancellations due to weather, holidays or other unforeseen circumstances.
From Country Express: Two step, Cha Cha, Waltz, Electric Slide, Charleston, Foot Boogie, River Waltz, Sweetheart, Around the Room, Tennessee Waltz, Neon Moon Cha Cha, and many more. Or just come listen to some good ole country music. Old country, new country, southern rock music. No alcohol allowed. Family fun for all ages.
Oz-Con is a gaming, cosplay and anime convention nestled in the Ozarks. The convention is hosted by Always a Future for Kids and students from The Game Changers student organization at Missouri State University-West Plains; all proceeds go to support Always a Future for Kids. The three-day event will have a little bit for everyone including Cosplay Events, Collector Card Games, such as Magic, Warhammer 40k, Role Playing Games, and much more. Come help support a good cause, browse the various vendors, join a workshop, and meet celebrities on April 25 – April 27, 2025.
Registration now open. Go to oz-con.com for complete details. Oz-Con on Facebook.
Performances Dates – April 24, 25, 26, 27, 29 and May 1, 2, 3, 4 (weekdays and Saturdays at 7PM & Sun at 3PM). West Plains Playhouse on Facebook for more information.
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.
Global sustainability topic of April 15 presentation at MSU-WP
Global sustainability and the role that science and technology policy plays in it will be the topic of discussion April 15 at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP). The presentation will begin at 3 p.m. in Melton Hall Room 115 on the MSU-WP campus. It is free and open to all, organizers said.
Dr. Rajiv Thakur, professor of geography in MSU-WP’s Department of Natural Sciences, will share valuable insights he developed while serving as an American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Science and Technology Policy Fellow at USAID from 2022-2023 and the U.S. Department of State from 2023-2024.
About the presentation
In his presentation “Science and Technology Policy for Sustainability: Our Planet Our Future,” Thakur examines the interrelationship between the health of our planet and the global commons, addressing the roles of inequality and technology. He will stress the urgency of recognizing the scale and interconnectedness of our relationship with Earth, organizers said.
Central to planetary stewardship is building social capital – fostering trust both within and between societies. Drawing from is sabbatical in Washington, D.C., Thakur will share his experiences navigating the federal policy landscape and highlight the importance of policy, innovation, education, information technology, finance, business and scientific collaboration in preventing irreversible change.
“Our world faces urgent challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, rising inequality, and rapid societal transformation driven by emerging technologies,” Thakur said. “The COVID-19 pandemic underscored that global crises can only be addressed through global cooperation, as these issues are deeply interconnected.
“In the United States, decisions that benefit humanity have long been grounded in scientific evidence, facilitating solutions to complex challenges by mobilizing expertise and knowledge across disciplines, guided by core values such as objectivity, rigor, integrity, inclusivity and truth,” he added.
“Global sustainability offers the only viable path to ensure human safety, equity, health and progress,” he continued. “Long-term, science-based decision-making often faces challenges in competing with immediate needs, yet politicians and scientists must collaborate to bridge the gap between expert evidence, short-term politics and the survival of life on Earth in the Anthropocene epoch.
“The future of humanity hinges on our ability to prioritize the long-term resilience of societies and Earth’s biosphere,” Thakur said. “Science is a global common good that seeks truth, knowledge and innovation to improve life for all.”
More about Thakur’s research
Thakur’s doctoral research at Indiana State University, titled “Science and Technology Indicators in EPSCoR States: A Policy Geography,” was funded by the National Science Foundation’s Robert Noyce Program. His dissertation explored the role of strategic science and technology planning in lagging EPSCoR (Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research) states in the U.S., offering a unique intersection between geography and public policy.
More recently, he co-edited a research monograph titled “Resource Management, Sustainable Development, and Governance” for Springer Nature. He has published and presented on applied economic development and is currently exploring new research at the intersection of economics and environmental sustainability. His policy interests include economic policy, environmental and climate science, and international development.
For more information about the presentation, contact Thakur at .
Performances Dates – April 24, 25, 26, 27, 29 and May 1, 2, 3, 4 (weekdays and Saturdays at 7PM & Sun at 3PM). West Plains Playhouse on Facebook for more information.
West Plains Women’s Acappella Community Chorus Rehearsals, Every Tuesday, 7pm to 9pm, West Plains Boys and Girls Club. Women singers always welcome. Get more information at 661-303-8686
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.
From the Harlin Museum: Family members can enter their loved one's (who may be in a nursing home or who is no longer able to do art) age 75+ artwork. This is a free event to honor the artistic talents of our senior artists. We will take up to 10 entries (and a biography!) for each artist May 1-4. The showcase is May 10-31. May 31 will be a reception, 2-4 p.m. Message Harlin Museum of West Plains for more information.
Outdoor market for local growers, producers, farmers, bakers, makers, crafters, and artisans!! Thursdays through October 30
West Plains Downtown Revitalization is thrilled to announce the launch of “Downtown Strolls,” a new recurring event that invites community members and visitors to experience the charm of downtown West Plains. Starting on April 3rd, Downtown Strolls will take place on the first Thursday of each month from 4 PM to 7 PM. This exciting initiative will feature extended business hours from participating shops and local businesses, giving attendees the opportunity to explore, shop, and enjoy the vibrant downtown atmosphere.
Many businesses will provide complimentary beverages to visitors, creating a welcoming and festive environment. Additionally, participants can have their downtown passports stamped or signed during each stroll, granting them entry into drawings for fantastic prizes. Downtown Strolls offer a unique chance to show support for local businesses, discover new shops and services, and build stronger connections within the community. This stroll will feature live music in the alleyways, kids’ activities, Cowboy Rick’s Stagecoach, and more. Look for balloons outside of participating businesses!
“We’re excited to bring this new tradition to downtown West Plains,” said Emily Edwards-Long, Future Downtown Coordinator, with West Plains Downtown Revitalization. “This is a fantastic way for people to engage with our local businesses and enjoy the vibrant energy that downtown has to offer.” Mark your calendars for the first Downtown Stroll on April 3rd and every first Thursday thereafter. Don’t miss this chance to shop, sip, and support local! For more information, visit: www.westplainsdowntown.com
4th annual Academic Symposium ‘a celebration of student brilliance’
WEST PLAINS, Mo. – Get ready to be inspired at Missouri State University-West Plains’ (MSU-WP) fourth annual Academic Symposium!
The event, set for May 1, promises to be the most exciting and enlightening event of the spring semester, organizers said.
“This year’s event will showcase the extraordinary talent and hard work of our students,” said Joanna Patillo and Jessica Banning, members of MSU-WP’s Public Affairs Committee which organizes the event. “We’re excited to provide a platform where our aspiring scholars can shine and share their passions with the community.”
What to expect
The symposium will highlight the academic accomplishments of students across all disciplines. From the sciences and humanities to health and business, students will present evidence-based research projects that reflect their creativity, curiosity and commitment to discovery, Patillo and Banning said.
Those who attend can expect to enjoy:
- Student-led presentations on a variety of innovative topics
- A vibrant poster showcase featuring original research and thought-provoking ideas
- Opportunities to engage with students, faculty and experts from across the region
- Free refreshments and open admission
“The symposium is more than just an academic event. It’s a community celebration of knowledge, exploration and the incredible stories behind student research,” said Patillo and Banning. “Our vision is to grow this into the premier academic conference in the region where the public can interact with tomorrow’s leaders and today’s changemakers.”
A diverse showcase of talent
Students from a wide range of academic programs will take center stage. These include nursing, education abroad experiences, microbiology, education, computer graphics and programming, human biology and more.
“This is a unique opportunity for guests to explore the incredible work being done across multiple disciplines and see firsthand how our students are applying their knowledge to real-world challenges,” Patillo and Banning said.
Through their research and presentations, students are not only honing their critical thinking and professional skills but also preparing to become future leaders who will make a lasting impact on the community, Patillo and Banning said.
Presentations will begin at 4 p.m. at Looney and Melton Halls, 128 Garfield Ave. and 129 Garfield Ave., respectively. Posters can be viewed at Hass-Darr Hall, 201 W. Trish Knight St.
“Whether you’re a student, faculty member, local resident or lifelong learner, we invite you to join us for this celebration of curiosity, discovery and innovation,” Patillo and Banning said. “Come, see what makes MSU-WP students stand out!
Special thanks to our supporters
Patillo and Banning noted the event would not be possible without “the dedicated efforts of our faculty, student volunteers and presenters. Thank you for your hard work and enthusiasm in bringing the symposium to life.”
They also extended their “heart-felt appreciation to our generous sponsors, the Friends of the Garnett Library and the Student Government Association for their continued support and commitment to student success.”
For more information about the event contact Patillo at or Banning at .
Performances Dates – April 24, 25, 26, 27, 29 and May 1, 2, 3, 4 (weekdays and Saturdays at 7PM & Sun at 3PM). West Plains Playhouse on Facebook for more information.
Message the West Plains Chamber of Commerce or call 417-256-4433 for more information.
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.
From the Harlin Museum: Family members can enter their loved one's (who may be in a nursing home or who is no longer able to do art) age 75+ artwork. This is a free event to honor the artistic talents of our senior artists. We will take up to 10 entries (and a biography!) for each artist May 1-4. The showcase is May 10-31. May 31 will be a reception, 2-4 p.m. Message Harlin Museum of West Plains for more information.
Message Country Nights, LLC on Facebook for more information.
Performances Dates – April 24, 25, 26, 27, 29 and May 1, 2, 3, 4 (weekdays and Saturdays at 7PM & Sun at 3PM). West Plains Playhouse on Facebook for more information.
This is a recurring (first Friday of every month) event scheduled by Dev’s Steakhouse Piano Bar Lounge. Please check with them for details and potential cancellations.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation.
From organizers: A dog show with multiple categories, food trucks, and vendor availability. A fundraising event for Ozarks Pet Rescue in Missouri. Dogs from all over are allowed to enter the show. Vendor booths are available. Contact the organizer for more information Paws for a Cause on Facebook.
Enter your dog and give them a Chance to Shine! You can enter all categories or just one, it is up to you.
Categories include:
1. Best Trick
2. Best Costume
3. Most Adorable in Show
4. Best Agility
5. Prettiest Pup (Dogs age 1 year and younger)
6. Adorable Adult (Dogs aged 2 years and older)
7. Dog and Owner Most Alike
All categories will have prizes for the winners. It is $10 per dog to enter, remember all money will go to fundraising. There will be fun and games for all ages and dogs. And finally Ozarks Pet Rescue will have a booth there with all their adoptable dogs and cats. Participate in a fun event for a good cause! Free admission for the public to attend.
Message the Paws for Cause Pet Show & Fest on Facebook for details.
From the Harlin Museum: Family members can enter their loved one's (who may be in a nursing home or who is no longer able to do art) age 75+ artwork. This is a free event to honor the artistic talents of our senior artists. We will take up to 10 entries (and a biography!) for each artist May 1-4. The showcase is May 10-31. May 31 will be a reception, 2-4 p.m. Message Harlin Museum of West Plains for more information.
Performances Dates – April 24, 25, 26, 27, 29 and May 1, 2, 3, 4 (weekdays and Saturdays at 7PM & Sun at 3PM). West Plains Playhouse on Facebook for more information.