Articles

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.

The 17th Annual Pet Contest celebrated adorable pets while raising funds for the Joplin Humane Society and Faithful Friends Animal Advocates, with Chance the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel taking first place, followed by Mini the tailless tabby, Wicket Bear the Pomeranian-Shih Tzu mix, and Ross the Yorkie Terrier as Facebook Fan Favorite. Every furry contestant was honored as a winner in spirit.

Tom Swartz, a 55-year-old Pittsburg resident, maintains a lifelong passion for cycling, riding multiple times a week for its physical, mental, and social benefits. He is an active member of the Whose Tires Flat? (WTF) Cycling Club, a close-knit group of friends that has also partnered with a local running group to organize community and charity rides.