16th Annual Nature Photo Contest Winners

16th Annual Nature Photo Contest Winners 16th Annual Nature Photo Contest Winners
Cover Story

16th Annual Nature Photo Contest Winners

16th Annual Nature Photo Contest Winners
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Staying Connected

Connecting the People, Places, Businesses and Culture of the Ozarks for more than 24 years

Since 2001, Show Me The Ozarks Magazine has showcased what makes the Four States such a fantastic place to live, work, play and visit.

We continue to celebrate with you, our loyal readers and advertisers, all that makes our region exceptional. The sights and the sounds. The parks and the trails. The dining. The shopping. The sports and the theater. The nightlife and the day trips. The rich heritage and the promising future.

Show Me The Ozarks Magazine promises to provide the highest level of quality, integrity and professionalism possible. If you have a story you’d like to share with our readers, or if you have comments, questions or suggestions, we would like to hear from you!

Stay Ahead with the Latest Ozarks News!

Enter your email to receive the latest news, stories and events directly in your inbox. Stay connected and never miss out on the vibrant happenings in our region.

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Regional Features

Explore the captivating stories that define the essence of the Ozarks. From the vibrant culture to the breathtaking landscapes, each cover story delves into the heart of what makes this region unique.

Bryce Commons, Cicis Pizza Employees Share Common Bond of Friendship

Bryce Commons, Cicis Pizza Employees Share Common Bond of Friendship

A New Chapter for a Beloved Landmark: Inside the Revival of Joplin’s Carnegie Library

A New Chapter for a Beloved Landmark: Inside the Revival of Joplin’s Carnegie Library

Glory Village to Offer Housing for Adults with Developmental Disabilities to Thrive

Glory Village to Offer Housing for Adults with Developmental Disabilities to Thrive

Chef J.R. Reed Gets Back in the Kitchen with Purple Chin Condiment Co.

Chef J.R. Reed Gets Back in the Kitchen with Purple Chin Condiment Co.

More Than a Job: How Supported Employment is Redefining Inclusion in Southwest Missouri

More Than a Job: How Supported Employment is Redefining Inclusion in Southwest Missouri

Camp Crowder Documentary to Reveal How Pivotal Moments in History Unfold in Unlikely Places  

Camp Crowder Documentary to Reveal How Pivotal Moments in History Unfold in Unlikely Places  

Recent Articles

Discover the latest updates and stories from Show Me The Ozarks Magazine. Stay informed about the events and happenings that shape our vibrant community.

Why I Ride: Mountain Biking Checks All the Boxes for Cole Beckham

Why I Ride: Mountain Biking Checks All the Boxes for Cole Beckham

SMTO Recipe: Indian Sloppy Joes

SMTO Recipe: Indian Sloppy Joes

Connect2Culture Presents … Children’s Fables and Traditional Irish Music

Connect2Culture Presents … Children’s Fables and Traditional Irish Music

Breaking Barriers on the Rails: Anita Horton’s Journey in a Traditionally Male-dominated Industry

Breaking Barriers on the Rails: Anita Horton’s Journey in a Traditionally Male-dominated Industry

A Dog’s Dream Finds Forever Homes for Retired Breeder Dogs

A Dog’s Dream Finds Forever Homes for Retired Breeder Dogs

2026 Aurora Business & Community Expo: A Celebration of Local Strength, Innovation and Community Spirit

2026 Aurora Business & Community Expo: A Celebration of Local Strength, Innovation and Community Spirit

Editor's Letter

Welcome to February! I don’t know about you, but January felt like it was at least 36 years long.

Our February issue is our Neosho and Newton County issue, where we highlight great things going on in that area. You’ll meet an old-school barber in Neosho who was trained in the Netherlands and now shares her expertise in her shop. You’ll meet a Neosho High School senior who excelled in softball and academics and has a bright future ahead. Speaking of Neosho High School, read about the Neosho Area Chamber of Commerce donating toward the school’s new podcast studio, which gives students real-life broadcasting experience. You’ll also learn about the Camp Crowder documentary being produced. If you have Camp Crowder memorabilia or stories from family members, you’ll learn how you can share those in order to enhance the documentary. And, next time you’re hungry, check out Miner Bill’s Pizza in Granby. The restaurant’s interior and the names of menu items are a lesson in Granby’s mining history.  

We also feature news about Kansas City University’s new academic program and take a look back at KCU’s beginnings in Joplin. And if you’re in the mood to laugh, learn about Comedy for Camp, a fun night of comedy to benefit Soroptimist of Joplin’s scholarship and camp programs.

And ... good news! The “Find the Green Smiley Face” is back in a new digital version. Find the green smiley face in a picture from a February article, email the location of where you found it and your mailing address to  wendy@showmetheozarks.com, and if your name is chosen, you’ll win a $50 Walmart gift card! Winner of the February “Find the Green Smiley Face” will be announced March 1!

Don’t forget, we’re online only now, so be sure to sign up to receive emails when we publish new content. We usually send 2-3 emails a month. It’s free to sign up, and we never sell your personal information. Sign up at www.showmetheozarks.com. You can also find our articles on Facebook and Instagram.  

Also, be sure to enter your photo in our 16th Annual Nature Photo Contest, benefiting Wildcat Glades Nature Group! Find all the details at https://www.showmetheozarks.com/contests. Hurry! Photo submission deadline is Feb. 23.

Thank you for being a part of the Show Me The Ozarks family!

Sincerely,  

Wendy's signature

Wendy Brunner, Publisher/Editor

P.O. Box 3325 • Joplin, Mo 64803