In a move indicative of proactive legislative response to economic crises, the Missouri House of Representatives recently passed the "Protecting Missouri's Small Businesses Act" (HB 2874). This legislation comes as a beacon of hope for small businesses across Missouri, offering a substantial package aimed at mitigating the adverse effects caused by emergency shutdown orders, particularly those enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here, we provide an in-depth analysis of HB 2874, its implications, key provisions, and the broader context of its development and anticipated impact. more

In an initiative to combat the threat of rabies, the Howell County Health Department is set to host its annual rabies vaccination clinics on May 4, offering vital services to the community at reduced costs. This year's clinics aim to broaden the initiative's reach by providing two convenient locations for pet owners in Howell County to access these essential vaccinations. more

David R. Stecklein, 68, Theodosia, has been charged after allegedly stealing a neighbor's pet chicken, killing it and hanging it from a tree in his front yard. more

An Ozark County resident who pleaded guilty in February to felony charges of shooting at a building and third-degree assault in Ozark County has had his charges and sentence altered, according to court records. more

Amanda Hamilton, the branch manager for West Plains Bank and Trust Company in Houston, marks a milestone this month, celebrating her third anniversary with the institution. Her time at West Plains Bank highlights a successful journey in the banking industry that began 16 years ago when she first dipped her toes into the financial world, seeking a job that would accommodate her family’s needs. more

Roseanna L. Tackitt, 47, West Plains, suffered moderate injuries in a two-vehicle crash at 4:29 p.m. Sunday on west U.S. 160, 4 miles east of Caulfield in Howell County, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol. more

The Mtn. View City Council will meet for a special session at 6 p.m. Tuesday in council chambers inside city hall, 120 N. Oak St. more

A narcotics search warrant served March 26 at a room at the Baymont Inn in West Plains has resulted in felony drug charges filed against four area residents. more

Hammond Mill Camp will host a BBQ & Bluegrass Gratitude Lunch Out for the community from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. more

MOUNTAIN VIEW — A brand new Mtn. View City Council was sworn in at Tuesday's regular monthly meeting and got down to business catching up on several agenda items left unresolved after shakeups over the last few months left council short of a quorum. Other items were tabled while members take the time research and review them. more

A graduate of Houston High School who has dedicated more than two decades of service to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the last five of which have been at General Headquarters in Jefferson City, will retire May 1, announces Col. Eric Olson, superintendent of the patrol. more

The total solar eclipse of April 8, 2024, has left those in its path with memories that will last a lifetime, and the West Plains Daily Quill is capturing those moments in a special book commemorating the celestial event. Monday’s eclipse drew eyes upwards and brought communities together, creating experiences that will be remembered for generations to come. more

The Thayer High School Senior Beta Club participated in the state convention held March 1 and 2 in Branson. The following students placed in the top five and now qualify for national convention in Savannah, Ga., this June: Jake McFann, third place, math; Savannah Jackson, third place, math; Abby Blum, second place, math; Ally Kerley, fourth place, pottery; Skylar McDaniel, fourth place, onsite drawing, and third place, sculpture; and Salena Hollis, third place onsite painting and fourth place, painting. more

The Thayer High School Junior Beta Club participated in the state convention held Feb 28 and 29 in Branson. The following students placed in the top five and now qualify for national convention in Savannah, Ga., this June: Zaiden Wright, third place, English/language arts; Jasmin Gutierrez, third place, Spanish; Quiz Bowl team members Colton Albritton, Grayson Woods, Camden Jennings and Weston Martin, first place; and Book Battle Team Members Taylor Blanks, Annabelle Williams and Zaiden Wright, first place. more

By now, the only folks who have not heard the buzz about the total eclipse happening in 2024 must be living under rocks. Yeah, that's right, another celestial blockbuster is on its way, and folks are getting seriously hyped up about it. It's not just your regular stargazers and astronomy buffs either; we're talking about people from all walks of life planning, plotting, and ready to hit the road for the best viewing spots. But why all the fuss about the moon photobombing the sun for a bit? Let's dive in and find out why everyone's marking their calendars and why you might just want to join the eclipse-chasing bandwagon. more

The City of Thayer is hosting eclipse camping through Tuesday, complete with a nightly bonfire, live music, shuttles and food vendors. more

The Quill will offer a keepsake book to commemorate the once-in-a-lifetime total solar eclipse event taking place Monday. more

Unofficial Howell County election results from Tuesday show a couple of potential upsets, including a defeat of Mtn. View Mayor John Krasuski by a write-in candidate, and a new West Plains R-7 school board member to replace longtime member and current President Jim Thompson, who was defeated by two votes. more