Join us at the West Plains Public Library for a fun-filled afternoon on Wednesday, April 16, from 4-5 p.m.! We’ll have story time, crafts, and an Easter egg hunt in the Children’s Library. Bring your little ones (ages 10 and under) for a hoppin’ good time!
Citywide Yard Sale
April 17–19 (Thursday–Saturday)
No permit fees required!
Time to clean out those closets, set up a sale, and shop around town for hidden treasures.
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
See City Wide Yard Sale Extension event page on Facebook for more information, including for vendor set up.
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours through June.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.
Food Truck Thursdays at the Civic Center in 2025 include: April 17, May 15, June 19, July 17, August 21, and September 18.
For reservations, call the Garnett Library, 417-255-7945, or Kloz Klozet, 417-256-3581.
Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.
MSU-WP to host dedication ceremony April 17 for Neurodiversity and Autism Center
Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP) will officially dedicate its new Neurodiversity and Autism Center during a ceremony from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Thursday, April 17, 2025.
University officials, local leaders and supporters of the project will gather to celebrate the completion of the state-of-the-art, $10.5 million facility. The facility houses the TJ Swift House ASCEND Program, which provides specialized support for students on the autism spectrum as they navigate college life and prepare for future careers.
“This new facility represents a major step forward in ensuring all students have the resources they need to succeed in higher education,” said Mikala King, director of the autism transition program. “The TJ Swift House ASCEND Program is designed to provide essential academic, social and daily living support, and this new space will enhance our ability to serve students in meaningful ways.”
A key feature of the new facility is the Philanthropic Friends Giving Circle Sensory Garden, made possible through a major gift from the Philanthropic Friends Giving Circle. Led by local resident and former Missouri State University Board of Governors member Carol Silvey, the garden will provide a calming outdoor environment for students on the spectrum while maintaining an enclosed space for comfort and security.
The Neurodiversity and Autism Center was made possible through significant funding contributions, including $7.5 million in state funding secured with the support of former 33rd District state Sen. Karla Eslinger, R-Wasola; former 154th District state Rep. David Evans, R-West Plains; and former Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, who signed the legislation for the appropriation in June 2022. Additional funding included $500,000 from the Howell County Commission’s American Rescue Plan Act funds and $2.5 million from the President’s Enhancement Fund at Missouri State University in Springfield.
Designed specifically for individuals on the autism spectrum, the 9,300-square-foot building features sensory-conscious elements such as indirect lighting, textured materials on carpets, walls and furniture, sound-absorbing materials and breakout rooms designed to help reduce overstimulation. The facility also includes classroom space tailored to support the unique learning styles of students in the TJ Swift House ASCEND Program.
“This project has been years in the making, and we are incredibly grateful to our state legislators, local government leaders and generous donors who helped make it a reality,” said MSU-WP Chancellor Dennis Lancaster. “This facility will be a game-changer for our students and a model for other institutions looking to enhance support for neurodiverse learners.”
Lancaster emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting a learning environment for all students. “At Missouri State University-West Plains, we are dedicated to providing opportunities for all students to thrive. This facility is a testament to that mission, ensuring students on the autism spectrum have the resources they need to succeed academically, socially and in their future careers.”
The dedication ceremony will take place outside the new facility on the MSU-WP campus. The event is free and open to the public. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the building following the ceremony.
For more information about the dedication ceremony, contact the MSU-WP office of university communications at 417-255-7960.
For more information about the TJ Swift House ASCEND Program, visit WP.MissouriState.edu/ASCEND or email King at MikalaKing@MissouriState.edu.
Citywide Yard Sale
April 17–19 (Thursday–Saturday)
No permit fees required!
Time to clean out those closets, set up a sale, and shop around town for hidden treasures.
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
See City Wide Yard Sale Extension event page on Facebook for more information, including for vendor set up.
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours through June.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.
Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.
From the director, Jordan Hall: BIG, BIG NEWS!
We are thrilled to announce our 2025 summer musical….Dreamworks “The Prince of Egypt”!
From organizers: Come out on this 420 weekend for a night of high times and good jams from Slim Stanley as the jams will consist of music from the Grateful Dead and other inspired tunes. This is free to get in but tips and donations are accepted up to 420 dollars. 
This is a BYOB event, please do so responsibly. Starting at 7 PM so get to trucking over to get your rambling rose dance shoes on and see what’s shaking on Trish Knight Street.
Message The Yellow House for more information.
Citywide Yard Sale
April 17–19 (Thursday–Saturday)
No permit fees required!
Time to clean out those closets, set up a sale, and shop around town for hidden treasures.
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
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!
See City Wide Yard Sale Extension event page on Facebook for more information, including for vendor set up.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.
The Lincoln School will host former NBA player and current administrator with Drury University Chris Carr for a community talk on perseverance and leadership. The program is free and open to all, but due to limited seating, registration is required. RSVP by emailing LincolnSchool65775@gmail.com.
Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.
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.
Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.
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
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours through June.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.
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
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours through June.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.
Free presentation.
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
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
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours through June.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.
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
Art available for viewing during OzSBI’s regular business hours through June.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.
Exhibit by local artists. Free admission. Donations for upkeep of the museum welcome.
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.
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 through June.
Art available for viewing during regular hours of operation through June.
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.