Articles

The seventh annual Toes in the Grand Festival at Wolf Creek Park in Grove, Oklahoma, offers a weekend of family-friendly fun June 7-9, featuring hydroplane boat races, a triathlon, car and truck shows, live music, food trucks, vendors, and a new kids’ zone. Organized by the Grove Area Chamber of Commerce, the event draws thousands to celebrate the Grand Lake region, boost the local economy, and kick off the summer season with activities for all ages.

Emily Killion, the new head coach of Joplin High School’s Lady Eagles volleyball team, is eager to lead and grow the program, drawing on her experience as an assistant coach and the mentorship of influential coaches and family. She emphasizes positivity, hard work, and academic excellence, aiming to build a legacy of respect and commitment both on and off the court.

Brandi Schol of Joplin, Missouri, built her family through foster care, adoption, and birth, guided by faith and a calling to provide a loving home for children in need. Starting with two foster siblings, she later adopted them, welcomed a biological son, and then adopted another baby boy, all while relying on the support of her community and church. Brandi’s story highlights the power of unconditional love and the belief that family is created by devotion, not just biology.

Lifelong friends Jerg Frogley and Joan Allen, both 80, have supported each other’s artistic journeys since childhood, from entering art contests to taking classes and now creating daily in their own studios. Despite their differences, their friendship is rooted in encouragement, laughter, and a shared passion for art. Today, they teach, exhibit locally, and continue to inspire each other, proving that creative companionship can last a lifetime.

Daphne and Brandon Tait of Neosho, Missouri, became adoptive parents unexpectedly after caring for two young girls whose family was struggling with addiction. What began as babysitting turned into a heartfelt journey, as the Taits and their biological children embraced the new additions. In February 2023, the adoption was finalized, completing their family of six and leaving them grateful for the support of their community and the bonds they’ve built together.

The Fairy Festival at Lendonwood Gardens in Grove, Oklahoma, on June 1 offers a whimsical experience for all ages, featuring crafts, fairy wings for kids, live music, a magician, face painting, fairy godmothers, and more—all set in the garden’s enchanting woodland setting. Organized with community support, the event highlights Lendonwood’s mission to connect people with nature and showcases the garden as a unique, year-round destination in Northeast Oklahoma.

Joplin will host the 65th annual National Council of Corvette Clubs (NCCC) Convention from May 13-19, drawing hundreds of Corvettes and enthusiasts from across the country. The week-long event features drag races, autocross, a car show, and valve cover racing, along with excursions to regional attractions. Organized by the 4 State Vettes Corvette Club and NCCC leaders, the convention highlights teamwork, community pride, and a shared passion for America’s iconic sports car.

The 13th and final Freeman Joplin Memorial Run will take place May 17-18, honoring the city’s resilience since the 2011 tornado. The event features multiple races, a Walk of Silence, and tributes to the 161 lives lost, with over 2,000 runners and 400 volunteers expected. Over its 13 years, the run has raised more than $300,000 for local causes, serving as a symbol of remembrance, community spirit, and Joplin’s ongoing recovery.

The Annual Cutest Baby Contest showcases adorable children from the Four States region, with all entry fees benefiting the local Children’s Miracle Network hospital. This year’s winners are Karson Smith (1st place), Harper Flenniken (2nd), Lenora Thompson (3rd), and Facebook Fan Favorite Sylas Sumners. The contest celebrates the joy these children bring while supporting a worthy cause for local kids in need.