Summer
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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.
Republic Licenses Offices Will Close For Six Days.
The Missouri Department of Revenue just awarded the Republic License Office contract to BCFO Titleworks, Inc. The office at 243 W. US Hwy 60 will close after Friday, Oct. 3, and reopen Thursday, Oct. 9—same spot, new management. New hours: Mon–Fri 8:30–5, Sat 8–noon. While it’s closed, you can hit up nearby offices in Aurora, Crane, or Nixa.