Wooly Bear Caterpillars Predict Ozark Weather

In the Ozarks, the woolly worm—or woolly bear caterpillar—is more than just a fuzzy critter crawling across your path in the fall. Local folklore says you can predict the coming winter by looking at the bands of color on its back. A wider brown middle band supposedly means a milder winter, while a thicker black band at the ends signals a harsh winter ahead.

Some Ozarkers take it even further: if the worm crosses your path heading north, expect snow early; if it heads south, winter will be late. And, of course, it’s considered good luck if one crosses your path at all—so keep your eyes peeled on crisp autumn walks!

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Another Corn Dog Recall!

Foster Poultry Farms is recalling more than 3.8 million pounds of chicken corn dogs due to possible contamination with pieces of wood in the batter, according to the USDA.

The recalled products were made between July 30, 2024, and August 4, 2025, and have establishment number “P-6137B” on the package. They were distributed nationwide to retail stores, institutions, and some schools.

The recall follows several consumer complaints, including reports of injuries. Anyone who purchased these products should not eat them—instead, throw them away or return them to the store.

For questions, contact Foster Farms Consumer Affairs at 1-800-338-8051 or email info@fosterfarms.com.

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Bridge Closures Expected Over 65 At CC

Lane closures on Route CC over US 65 in Ozark are expected to impact local businesses over the next month. The project, part of MoDOT’s ongoing bridge maintenance,  will last about 30 days.

Crews aim to extend the bridge’s lifespan and avoid a full replacement down the road. Meanwhile, businesses near the interchange—especially those that rely on highway traffic—are preparing for slower drive-thru lines and a drop in customers.

Drivers should plan for detours and expect delays through the area.

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Farm Fest Begins Today!

The 46th annual Ozark Fall Farmfest is happening October 3rd, 4th, and 5th, 2025 at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds in Springfield. It’s one of the biggest agricultural events in the entire region—and it’s free to attend and park.

Show hours are 9 to 5 on Friday and Saturday, and 9 to 4 on Sunday. You’ll find more than 1,200 exhibits showcasing everything from farm equipment to rural living products, plus over 600 head of registered livestock on display. Farmfest has been running for nearly half a century, always on the first weekend in October, and it’s grown into the Ozarks’ largest agricultural gathering.

Whether you’re in the market for equipment, love animals, or just want to soak up some fall family fun, Farmfest has something for everyone.

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Weekend Planner

FRIDAY

Farm-Fest at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds  8 am

First Friday Artwalk in Downtown Springfield – Self guided tour begins at 6pm FREE

Ozark Craft Festival 9 am Finley River Park

Republic Pumpkin Daze JR Martin Park Free admission

Freak Arts Expo at the University Plaza Convention Center admission fee applies

MSU Women’s volleyball 6-pm at Hammons Student Center

Pumpkin Fest at Shepherd of the Hills noon- ticket prices vary

Gillioz Ghost Light Session 8 pm open to the public seating is limited

SATURDAY

Farm-Fest at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds opens at 9am

Ozark Craft Festival

Springfield Botanical Gardens Native Plant Sale at 10 am at Nathanael Gren Park

Republic Pumpkin Daze JR Martin Park Free admission

Cards at Cards Sports Cards at Hammons Field 9 am

Harvest Festival at Silver Dollar City

Cackle Hatchery Chicken Festival – egg eating contest, rides magic show

Party in the Pasture with Chris Janson, Randall King and Josh Weathers 6pm

Harvest Moon Festival Shoals Bend Park Forsyth 10 am

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Willard Police Getting National Attention Tonight!

The Willard Police Department is about to get some national attention. Their work on a 2020 double homicide case will be featured this Thursday night on the true-crime series Interrogation Raw.

The episode covers the investigation into the tragic shooting of a young couple on Main and Mill Street, and how local officers, working with Highway Patrol, closed the case in just three weeks.

The show airs tonight, Thursday, October 2  at 8 pm.

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Black Bear Sightings Expected!

Heads up—black bears are on the move in Missouri. Winter’s coming, and they’re bulking up for that long nap. Which means… if there’s food sitting out, they might come looking for a snack in your yard.

Conservation agents say don’t leave pet food out, secure your trash, maybe rethink that bird feeder, ‘cause these bears can pack on three pounds a day right now.

Missouri’s got more than 1,000 black bears, so just keep your eyes open and your trashcan's put up.

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Tru-Fru Recall

Tru Fru is recalling some of their freeze-dried strawberry treats because they may contain pieces of metal.

The recall affects Strawberries in Dark & White Chocolate and Strawberries & Crème, which were sold at big retailers like Target,  CVS, and more.

So far, no injuries have been reported, but the company says if you’ve got these at home, check the manufacturing code on the back of the bag to see if yours is part of the recall. Other Tru Fru products aren’t affected.

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Hillshire's Meat-On-A-Stick Recall

Hillshire has recalled around 58 million pounds of its “meat-on-a-stick” due to contamination concerns.

The USDA reported that Hillshire’s Texas plant is recalling products due to possible wood impurities found in corn dog and sausage stick items under the Jimmy Dean and State Fair brands. If you have these “meat-on-a-stick” products  take them back to where you bought them.

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