Skip to content

 
Menu
Menu
Menu

Calendar

Dec
27
Sat
Auditions ~ Into the Woods, West Plains Playhouse Production @ West Plains Civic Center Theater
Dec 27 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Auditions for INTO THE WOODS will be December 27 and 28 at 6PM at the West Plains Civic Center.
You can submit your audition form at https://forms.gle/GWmPUBPAV5J3K1ca8
For the musical portion of the audition, please prepare a song in the style of Sondheim that best suits your vocal type. On the day of your audition, you will provide a link to the backing track of your audition song. INTO THE WOODS will be directed by Allie Whitsell with Musical Director Tony Logue.
Rehearsals will be January 5 – February 19 and performances will be February 20 – March 1 at the West Plains Civic Center.
While auditions are open to everyone, this musical is intended for more mature audiences.
We’ll see you in the woods!
Weekly Dance with live music by Country Express Band @ West Plains Senior Center
Dec 27 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

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.

 

Dec
28
Sun
Visit with Santa @ GO FARM Farmers Market
Dec 28 @ 10:00 am
West Plains Model Railroad Club Christmas Train Display @ Harlin Museum
Dec 28 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Free Admission, with donations accepted.

Auditions ~ Into the Woods, West Plains Playhouse Production @ West Plains Civic Center Theater
Dec 28 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Auditions for INTO THE WOODS will be December 27 and 28 at 6PM at the West Plains Civic Center.
You can submit your audition form at https://forms.gle/GWmPUBPAV5J3K1ca8
For the musical portion of the audition, please prepare a song in the style of Sondheim that best suits your vocal type. On the day of your audition, you will provide a link to the backing track of your audition song. INTO THE WOODS will be directed by Allie Whitsell with Musical Director Tony Logue.
Rehearsals will be January 5 – February 19 and performances will be February 20 – March 1 at the West Plains Civic Center.
While auditions are open to everyone, this musical is intended for more mature audiences.
We’ll see you in the woods!
Dec
29
Mon
Art @ OzSBI ~ Robb Cox @ Ozarks Small Business Incubator
Dec 29 @ 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
Grizzly Basketball Christmas Camp for Youth hosted by MSU-WP Grizzly Basketball Head Coach Jared Phay (different times available) @ West Plains Civic Center
Dec 29 @ 9:00 am

Area school-aged youth are invited to participate in Grizzly Basketball Christmas Camp Dec. 29 and 30 at the West Plains Civic Center.

The camp is being hosted by Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) Grizzly Basketball Head Coach Jared Phay and Assistant Coaches Joe Greenwood and Walt Belcher. Current and former Grizzly Basketball players also will help coach participants, officials said.

Camp Details

Participants who are in eighth grade and younger will learn basketball fundamentals for all aspects of the game during the camp, Phay said.

These campers have the option of attending one of two sessions:

  • the morning session from 9 a.m. to noon
  • the all-day session from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

All sessions will be divided into groups based on the participants’ skill levels, Phay said, adding the camps are open to all youths of every ability, Phay said.

All equipment for the camps will be provided, with the exception of personal attire. Campers are encouraged to bring their own ball with their name on it, but a ball can be provided, if needed. Participants also should bring their own water bottles, and those who are participating in the all-day camp should bring their own sack lunch.

Camp Costs and Registration

The cost of attending the morning session is $65; the cost to attend the all-day camp is $95. Spaces are limited for each session, so early registration is strongly encouraged.

Registration forms can be downloaded at MSUWPGrizzlies.com/Camps/Grizzly_Holiday_Basketball_Camp_Registration_2025-2026.

For more information about the camp, contact Phay at 417-255-7991 or JaredPhay@MissouriState.edu.

Ozark Horizon Student Art @ West Plains Public Library
Dec 29 @ 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Dec
30
Tue
Art @ OzSBI ~ Robb Cox @ Ozarks Small Business Incubator
Dec 30 @ 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
Grizzly Basketball Christmas Camp for Youth hosted by MSU-WP Grizzly Basketball Head Coach Jared Phay (different times available) @ West Plains Civic Center
Dec 30 @ 9:00 am

Area school-aged youth are invited to participate in Grizzly Basketball Christmas Camp Dec. 29 and 30 at the West Plains Civic Center.

The camp is being hosted by Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) Grizzly Basketball Head Coach Jared Phay and Assistant Coaches Joe Greenwood and Walt Belcher. Current and former Grizzly Basketball players also will help coach participants, officials said.

Camp Details

Participants who are in eighth grade and younger will learn basketball fundamentals for all aspects of the game during the camp, Phay said.

These campers have the option of attending one of two sessions:

  • the morning session from 9 a.m. to noon
  • the all-day session from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

All sessions will be divided into groups based on the participants’ skill levels, Phay said, adding the camps are open to all youths of every ability, Phay said.

All equipment for the camps will be provided, with the exception of personal attire. Campers are encouraged to bring their own ball with their name on it, but a ball can be provided, if needed. Participants also should bring their own water bottles, and those who are participating in the all-day camp should bring their own sack lunch.

Camp Costs and Registration

The cost of attending the morning session is $65; the cost to attend the all-day camp is $95. Spaces are limited for each session, so early registration is strongly encouraged.

Registration forms can be downloaded at MSUWPGrizzlies.com/Camps/Grizzly_Holiday_Basketball_Camp_Registration_2025-2026.

For more information about the camp, contact Phay at 417-255-7991 or JaredPhay@MissouriState.edu.

Ozark Horizon Student Art @ West Plains Public Library
Dec 30 @ 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
West Plains Women’s Acappella Community Chorus Rehearsal @ Boys & Girls Club
Dec 30 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

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

Dec
31
Wed
Ozark Horizon Student Art @ West Plains Public Library
Dec 31 @ 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Live Music ~ Southern Edge Band, New Year’s Eve Bash @ Country Nights
Dec 31 @ 6:00 pm
We’re excited to host an outstanding New Year’s bash featuring Southern Edge Band and a special guest DJ. Come join us for a night to remember.
No matter what your plan are please drink responsibly and have a DD or use a ride program!
We will have some games and prizes, Free drinks!
Jell-O shots and Dollar shots
Let’s make this a New Years to remember!!!!
We will have a special guest singer along with Southern Edge!!
New Years Eve Bash on Facebook.
Live Music ~ Dev’s New Year’s Eve Party with The Lone Pine Band @ Dev's Steakhouse
Dec 31 @ 7:00 pm

Our last event. Help us celebrate 2025 and welcome 2026! It’s been a ride. We would love nothing more than to celebrate with all of you. Please join us NYE! Doors open at 3:00 with one final Happy Hour from 3:00 – 6:00. Then the party starts with The Lone Pine Band kicking off at 7:00! Steaks & Burgers will be served along with full bar service!

New Years All Night Skate @ S&S Skateland
Dec 31 2025 @ 8:00 pm – Jan 1 2026 @ 7:00 am

New Years All Night Lock in Skate. $25. All rink rules apply. Tickets nonrefundable.

Jan
3
Sat
GO FARM Farmers Market of West Plains @ Endurance Church Parking Lot
Jan 3 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Open every Saturday 9 a.m. t0 1 p.m. and on Wednesdays, seasonally. GO FARM Farmers Market of West Plains on Facebook for more information.

“Civic Spruce” Downtown Cleanup ~ meet @ Johnny Hatchets Axe Throwing & Coffee House
Jan 3 @ 9:15 am – 10:15 am

Meet at Johnny Hatchet’s Axe Throwing & Coffee House at 9:15am. Clean-up from 9:30-11:30am. Bring gloves!

Auditions for Beauty and the Beast ~ A Little Lanterns Children’s Theatre Production
Jan 3 @ 5:00 pm
Auditions for Beauty and the Beast – A Little Lanterns Children’s Theatre Production, Directed by Grace Loukota
✨️ All children ages 5 – 18 are welcome!
Auditions Dates:
Saturday, January 3rd – 5:00pm
Sunday, January 4th – 1:00pm
Located at The Grand Ballroom above the former Dev’s Steakhouse & Live Music Lounge, 37 Court Square.
What To Expect:
We will have a lighthearted and fun call and response style group audition with an optional monologue reading for those who wish to audition for a main role, along with a short dance portion.
‼️ We Need: actors, dancers, builders, painters, light crew, sound crew, house crew (concessions, ushers, ticket takers)
Sign up now via the link below!
Cast List: January 7th at 11AM
REHEARSALS – after school Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 3:30 – 5:30pm
January 8 (3:30 – 4:30), 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 19, 20, 22, 23, 26, 27, 29, 30
Tech Week: February 2, 3, 5 – 3:30 to 6:00 pm
Performances: February 6th and 13th at 7pm
7th, 8th, 14th, and 15th at 3pm
If you have any questions, please call Grace (218) 866-2210 or email littlelanterns123@gmail.com
Weekly Dance with live music by Country Express Band @ West Plains Senior Center
Jan 3 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

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.

 

Jan
4
Sun
Auditions for Beauty and the Beast ~ A Little Lanterns Children’s Theatre Production @ Dev's Grand Ballroom
Jan 4 @ 1:00 pm
Auditions for Beauty and the Beast – A Little Lanterns Children’s Theatre Production, Directed by Grace Loukota
✨️ All children ages 5 – 18 are welcome!
Auditions Dates:
Saturday, January 3rd – 5:00pm
Sunday, January 4th – 1:00pm
Located at The Grand Ballroom above the former Dev’s Steakhouse & Live Music Lounge, 37 Court Square.
What To Expect:
We will have a lighthearted and fun call and response style group audition with an optional monologue reading for those who wish to audition for a main role, along with a short dance portion.
‼️ We Need: actors, dancers, builders, painters, light crew, sound crew, house crew (concessions, ushers, ticket takers)
Sign up now via the link below!
Cast List: January 7th at 11AM
REHEARSALS – after school Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 3:30 – 5:30pm
January 8 (3:30 – 4:30), 9, 12, 13, 15, 16, 19, 20, 22, 23, 26, 27, 29, 30
Tech Week: February 2, 3, 5 – 3:30 to 6:00 pm
Performances: February 6th and 13th at 7pm
7th, 8th, 14th, and 15th at 3pm
If you have any questions, please call Grace (218) 866-2210 or email littlelanterns123@gmail.com
Jan
6
Tue
West Plains Women’s Acappella Community Chorus Rehearsal @ Boys & Girls Club
Jan 6 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

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

Jan
8
Thu
Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display entries dates @ Harlin Museum
Jan 8 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display at the Harlin Museum
Honoring America’s 250th Birthday

Entry Information: Quilts and their accompanying stories may be entered January 8-11, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. Arrangements can be made for early drop-off if needed. There is no fee to display quilts, though donations are always welcome and appreciated to support the museum’s programs.

In celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the Harlin Museum of West Plains is pleased to present a Patriotic and Antique Quilt Display, on exhibit January 15–February 14, 2026.

This special non-competitive show honors both our nation’s rich history and the resilient, resourceful Ozark women who crafted quilts from scraps—creating lasting works of beauty and comfort.

An opening reception featuring an antique “bed turning” presentation will be held on Saturday, January 17, from 2–4 p.m. Visitors are invited to enjoy the display, hear the stories behind the quilts, and celebrate a cherished American art form.

Pickup Dates: February 14–15 | Noon–4 p.m.

Join us in honoring our nation’s heritage and the creative spirit of Ozark women through this meaningful and patriotic exhibition.

Jan
9
Fri
Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display entries dates @ Harlin Museum
Jan 9 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display at the Harlin Museum
Honoring America’s 250th Birthday

Entry Information: Quilts and their accompanying stories may be entered January 8-11, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. Arrangements can be made for early drop-off if needed. There is no fee to display quilts, though donations are always welcome and appreciated to support the museum’s programs.

In celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the Harlin Museum of West Plains is pleased to present a Patriotic and Antique Quilt Display, on exhibit January 15–February 14, 2026.

This special non-competitive show honors both our nation’s rich history and the resilient, resourceful Ozark women who crafted quilts from scraps—creating lasting works of beauty and comfort.

An opening reception featuring an antique “bed turning” presentation will be held on Saturday, January 17, from 2–4 p.m. Visitors are invited to enjoy the display, hear the stories behind the quilts, and celebrate a cherished American art form.

Pickup Dates: February 14–15 | Noon–4 p.m.

Join us in honoring our nation’s heritage and the creative spirit of Ozark women through this meaningful and patriotic exhibition.

Jan
10
Sat
GO FARM Farmers Market of West Plains @ Endurance Church Parking Lot
Jan 10 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Open every Saturday 9 a.m. t0 1 p.m. and on Wednesdays, seasonally. GO FARM Farmers Market of West Plains on Facebook for more information.

Southern Missouri Card Show @ West Plains Civic Center Exhibit Hall
Jan 10 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
From organizers: Come out and see us at the West Plains Civic Center from 9am-4pm on January 10th! Bring your sports and TCG cards to buy, sell, and trade at any of our 80 tables! We will also have our friends over at Cosmic Cravings set up right outside the venue for all of your food and drink needs. Lastly, if you are interested in setting up at our show feel free to send us a message at Southern MO Card Show.

Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display entries dates @ Harlin Museum
Jan 10 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display at the Harlin Museum
Honoring America’s 250th Birthday

Entry Information: Quilts and their accompanying stories may be entered January 8-11, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. Arrangements can be made for early drop-off if needed. There is no fee to display quilts, though donations are always welcome and appreciated to support the museum’s programs.

In celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the Harlin Museum of West Plains is pleased to present a Patriotic and Antique Quilt Display, on exhibit January 15–February 14, 2026.

This special non-competitive show honors both our nation’s rich history and the resilient, resourceful Ozark women who crafted quilts from scraps—creating lasting works of beauty and comfort.

An opening reception featuring an antique “bed turning” presentation will be held on Saturday, January 17, from 2–4 p.m. Visitors are invited to enjoy the display, hear the stories behind the quilts, and celebrate a cherished American art form.

Pickup Dates: February 14–15 | Noon–4 p.m.

Join us in honoring our nation’s heritage and the creative spirit of Ozark women through this meaningful and patriotic exhibition.

Weekly Dance with live music by Country Express Band @ West Plains Senior Center
Jan 10 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

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.

 

Live Music ~ Johnny Mace @ Country Nights
Jan 10 @ 7:30 pm
Jan
11
Sun
Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display entries dates @ Harlin Museum
Jan 11 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display at the Harlin Museum
Honoring America’s 250th Birthday

Entry Information: Quilts and their accompanying stories may be entered January 8-11, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. Arrangements can be made for early drop-off if needed. There is no fee to display quilts, though donations are always welcome and appreciated to support the museum’s programs.

In celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the Harlin Museum of West Plains is pleased to present a Patriotic and Antique Quilt Display, on exhibit January 15–February 14, 2026.

This special non-competitive show honors both our nation’s rich history and the resilient, resourceful Ozark women who crafted quilts from scraps—creating lasting works of beauty and comfort.

An opening reception featuring an antique “bed turning” presentation will be held on Saturday, January 17, from 2–4 p.m. Visitors are invited to enjoy the display, hear the stories behind the quilts, and celebrate a cherished American art form.

Pickup Dates: February 14–15 | Noon–4 p.m.

Join us in honoring our nation’s heritage and the creative spirit of Ozark women through this meaningful and patriotic exhibition.

Jan
12
Mon
Art of Dolores Winkler ~ Exhibit hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
Jan 12 @ 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Art of Marc Brannan Exhibit hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ OzSBI
Jan 12 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Auditions ~ Gilligan’s Island the Musical @ The Avenue Theatre
Jan 12 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

From organizers: GET SHIPWRECKED ON STAGE!
Now Casting: Gilligan’s Island The Musical. All iconic roles open!
Do you have what it takes? Sign up below.
https://m.signupgenius.com/…

Audition date: January 12, 6:00-8PM
Rehearsals start February 2nd
Show dates: March 13-22 weekends only
West Plains Photography Club
Jan 12 @ 6:30 pm

The West Plains Photography Club currently has 34 members and meetings are at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month in the Missouri State University-West Plains Creative Discovery Center, 411 West Main Street, Suite 1. Everyone regardless of age or ability is invited to join the club which has no membership dues.

The purpose of the club is to share and support everyone’s passion for photography arts whether they are a beginner or have been engaged in photography for many years. Present members include some who do not even own a camera to professionals who make a living by selling their art. For more information on the club feel free to call Bob Cunningham at 417-257-8206 or Dennis Crider at 417-274-7101.

Jan
13
Tue
Art of Dolores Winkler ~ Exhibit hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
Jan 13 @ 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Art of Marc Brannan Exhibit hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ OzSBI
Jan 13 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
West Plains Women’s Acappella Community Chorus Rehearsal @ Boys & Girls Club
Jan 13 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

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

Jan
14
Wed
Art of Dolores Winkler ~ Exhibit hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
Jan 14 @ 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Art of Marc Brannan Exhibit hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ OzSBI
Jan 14 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Jan
15
Thu
Art of Dolores Winkler ~ Exhibit hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
Jan 15 @ 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Art of Marc Brannan Exhibit hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ OzSBI
Jan 15 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display @ Harlin Museum
Jan 15 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display at the Harlin Museum
Honoring America’s 250th Birthday

In celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the Harlin Museum of West Plains is pleased to present a Patriotic and Antique Quilt Display, on exhibit January 15–February 14, 2026 (Thursdays-Sundays, 12-4 p.m.).

This special non-competitive show honors both our nation’s rich history and the resilient, resourceful Ozark women who crafted quilts from scraps—creating lasting works of beauty and comfort.

An opening reception featuring an antique “bed turning” presentation will be held on Saturday, January 17, from 2–4 p.m. Visitors are invited to enjoy the display, hear the stories behind the quilts, and celebrate a cherished American art form.

Pickup Dates: February 14–15 | Noon–4 p.m.

Join us in honoring our nation’s heritage and the creative spirit of Ozark women through this meaningful and patriotic exhibition.

Jan
16
Fri
Art of Dolores Winkler ~ Exhibit hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
Jan 16 @ 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Art of Marc Brannan Exhibit hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ OzSBI
Jan 16 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display @ Harlin Museum
Jan 16 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display at the Harlin Museum
Honoring America’s 250th Birthday

In celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the Harlin Museum of West Plains is pleased to present a Patriotic and Antique Quilt Display, on exhibit January 15–February 14, 2026 (Thursdays-Sundays, 12-4 p.m.).

This special non-competitive show honors both our nation’s rich history and the resilient, resourceful Ozark women who crafted quilts from scraps—creating lasting works of beauty and comfort.

An opening reception featuring an antique “bed turning” presentation will be held on Saturday, January 17, from 2–4 p.m. Visitors are invited to enjoy the display, hear the stories behind the quilts, and celebrate a cherished American art form.

Pickup Dates: February 14–15 | Noon–4 p.m.

Join us in honoring our nation’s heritage and the creative spirit of Ozark women through this meaningful and patriotic exhibition.

Jan
17
Sat
Exhibit by Photographer Dennis Crider “THE GREAT AMERICAN WEST – 250 years on the road” hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Civic Center Mezzanine
Jan 17 all-day
“THE GREAT AMERICAN WEST – 250 years on the road”
Photographs by Dennis Crider. Featured at the West Plains Civic Center
 
West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) will host an exhibition entitled “THE GREAT AMERICAN WEST – 250 years on the road” Photographs by Dennis Crider. As part of activities celebrating America’s 250th anniversary the exhibit will be displayed at the Gallery at the Center, West Plains Civic Center from January 17 through February 21, 2026.  The Gallery, on the mezzanine, is open to the public during regular Civic Center hours.
There will be a Meet-the-Artist event February 7,   2:00-4:00 PM
Dennis Crider is an award-winning photographer who has had an interest in photography since early childhood in his hometown of Wichita, Kansas. He was yearbook and newspaper photographer in both high school and college. While a senior at Wichita High School South, he entered his first photography contest and gained a measure of confidence when he was named winner of an honorable mention award. It was the Kodak National High School Photo Awards Contest, and he was one of 125 HM Award winners. He received a certificate and $10.

Simple things like wide open spaces appeal to Dennis, as well as diversity of scenery. “While driving through Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona, the scene changes with every turn. I have come to love the vastness of the prairie, the beauty of the Flint Hills, and geologic wonders such as Little Jerusalem Badlands and Monument Rocks in my home state”.

In 1969 he became a reporter/photographer at The Daily Quill Newspaper in West Plains, Missouri. By the time he retired in 2008 he was head photographer and sports editor. In October 2023, he was inducted into the Missouri Photojournalism Hall of Fame at a ceremony in Columbia, Missouri. He was the 77th person to receive this honor.
Trips to the magnificent American West have been welcome endeavors since retiring. But what is it that has him returning year after year? Growing up in Wichita, Kansas was at times a bit boring, but things changed when the family ventured west and south into northwestern Oklahoma where Dennis’s father was born. Visits to Buffalo, Oklahoma were usually around Thanksgiving and Christmas, and Dennis couldn’t wait to go rabbit hunting. During visits in the summer months, he spent a lot of time going after bass, bluegill and catfish in Sand Creek, a spring-fed oasis about a mile from where his father was born. A favorite fishing spot.
Horace Greeley is credited with the phrase “Go West, young man,” and that is what Dennis says he will do as long as he can. And here is how a good cowboy friend puts it…”When your dog runs off in the prairie, you can watch it go for three days.”
This is just a sampling of why Dennis is in love with THE GREAT AMERICAN WEST.
 WPCA will host a Meet the Artist event on Saturday, February 7, from 2:00-4:00 p.m., in the Gallery at the Center. All are invited to attend, meet the artist and discuss the work.  The exhibit is co-sponsored by the West Plains Civic Center and West Plains Council on the Arts, with partial funding provided by Missouri Arts Council, a state agency and Missouri Humanities.
All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast @ American Legion Hall
Jan 17 @ 7:00 am – 10:00 am

The American Legion hosts a breakfast on the third Saturday of every month as a fundraiser. All you can eat and lots of options at a bargain price!

Art of Dolores Winkler ~ Exhibit hosted by West Plains Council on the Arts @ West Plains Public Library
Jan 17 @ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
GO FARM Farmers Market of West Plains @ Endurance Church Parking Lot
Jan 17 @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Open every Saturday 9 a.m. t0 1 p.m. and on Wednesdays, seasonally. GO FARM Farmers Market of West Plains on Facebook for more information.

Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display @ Harlin Museum
Jan 17 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Patriotic & Antique Quilt Display at the Harlin Museum
Honoring America’s 250th Birthday

In celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the Harlin Museum of West Plains is pleased to present a Patriotic and Antique Quilt Display, on exhibit January 15–February 14, 2026 (Thursdays-Sundays, 12-4 p.m.).

This special non-competitive show honors both our nation’s rich history and the resilient, resourceful Ozark women who crafted quilts from scraps—creating lasting works of beauty and comfort.

An opening reception featuring an antique “bed turning” presentation will be held on Saturday, January 17, from 2–4 p.m. Visitors are invited to enjoy the display, hear the stories behind the quilts, and celebrate a cherished American art form.

Pickup Dates: February 14–15 | Noon–4 p.m.

Join us in honoring our nation’s heritage and the creative spirit of Ozark women through this meaningful and patriotic exhibition.