Articles

The 28th Annual Carl Junction Bluegrass Festival fills Center Creek Park with music, food, crafts, and community spirit—bringing together families and friends from across the Four States for a day of timeless tradition and small-town charm.

At just five years old, Carl Junction’s Cyrus Erie is training for his first 5k alongside his dad—turning runs into adventures, setbacks into resilience, and every finish line into a celebration of grit, joy, and family.

At 86, Carl Junction’s Herb Hoerman proves age is just a number—riding miles each week, tinkering with his beloved bike, and inspiring others with his passion for health, history, and staying active.

Show Me Sports Roundup kicks off football season by spotlighting high school and college teams across Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma—with team insights and exclusive coach interviews that celebrate the spirit of local sports.

Carl Junction students are starting the year with a brand-new facility built for Air Force JROTC and Archery, giving both programs room to grow, train, and compete while strengthening the sense of pride and opportunity within the district.

Downtown Joplin shines with color and creativity as Spiva Center for the Arts hosts Watercolor USA—the nation’s premier water media showcase—and welcomes hometown artist Jeffrey C. Legg with Alchemy of Light & Shadow, giving visitors a rare chance to experience two world-class exhibitions under one roof.

From a Walmart yo-yo to the national stage, Purcell’s Josiah Pulsifer has spun years of practice, passion, and perseverance into becoming one of the country’s top offstring yo-yo competitors—proving that dedication and creativity can turn a simple hobby into a remarkable journey.

Carl Junction Schools welcomes Superintendent Dr. David Pyle and High School Principal Keith Robertson—two leaders with strong ties to the district who are dedicated to preparing students for bright futures while strengthening the heart of the community.

What began as picking up trash along the highway has grown into a mission of service: Carl Junction’s Richard “Richie” Housley and his daughter are now known for tirelessly supporting kids, families, and neighbors in need.