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As far as I know, most of the dialect maps like this are drawn to show the furthest extent to which you will find native-born speakers of a particular dialect. They may be an actual minority when you reach the edge of a particular dialect region, but that is how they are drawn, as far as I understand it.
Btw anyone seem the film 'Winter's Bone?' It was a pretty good look into life in a rather economically depressed community deep in the Ozarks. Many in the films were actual locals just playing themselves.
LOVED that depressing but engrossing film. I have always had an interest in both regions, and now I actually find myself living in the Appalachians of PA.
I would say that there are similarities, even at this point of the Apps, but I'd say that they weould be stronger in West Va.
Norther MO. is not really the Ozarks. I think that the heart of that culture is in Southern MO and Northern AR, plus states that border these regions.
I've always wanted to visit a church where people handle snakes. There are many in W.Va. I have no interest at all in handling snakes but I'd like to see it, and to interview and get to know these folks.
I'm sure that for obvious reasons, they are less than forth coming about their marginalized faith.
As far as I know, most of the dialect maps like this are drawn to show the furthest extent to which you will find native-born speakers of a particular dialect. They may be an actual minority when you reach the edge of a particular dialect region, but that is how they are drawn, as far as I understand it.
I might just be an old chunk of coal, but I think a map can't tell you everything. I spoke to a native Missourian today that, I promise you, sounded like he could've been from Alabama. He definitely could've been a native here in Arkansas. And I don't mean Southern Mountain; he sounded completely Deep South. I asked him if he was sure he was from Missouri twice. I guess it all just depends on who you talk to. Or maybe I haven't been to the part of Missouri where this guy was from.
I might just be an old chunk of coal, but I think a map can't tell you everything. I spoke to a native Missourian today that, I promise you, sounded like he could've been from Alabama. He definitely could've been a native here in Arkansas. And I don't mean Southern Mountain; he sounded completely Deep South. I asked him if he was sure he was from Missouri twice. I guess it all just depends on who you talk to. Or maybe I haven't been to the part of Missouri where this guy was from.
All of my family that is from Poplar Bluff sound exactly the same as you describe, so does just about everyone else in the bootheel.
Where was the man you spoke to from?
My life is complete now that you approve of a map that is essentially the same as the other.
You know, believe it or not, not EVERYTHING is about you, including my opinions of your precious maps, which apparently you drew yourself, judging by your offense at someone daring to not agree with them.
Anywho, whatever. Doesn't matter really, but I simply have a hard time letting uncalled for snide comments slide. Take care!
Yes, Ozark and Appalachian culture have similarities.
1) Built environment concentrated in river valleys, streams, and hollows with ridgetops and mountainous areas having few large settlements.
2) Small scale economies that often revolve around mining, wood products industries, light manufacturing, and small colleges.
3) Relative isolation with an often lower grade of roads or roads that are often difficult to navigate.
4) Ancestry is predominantly English, Scots-Irish, Irish, French, Scottish.
5) Rural poverty and lower educational attainment remain key areas of concern.
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Take care! 
