Articles

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.

The Little Balkans Quilt Guild, a creative community celebrating its 35th anniversary, is hosting its popular annual quilt show this Labor Day weekend during the Little Balkans Days Festival. Beyond this major event, the guild is dedicated to fellowship, education, and extensive charity work, regularly creating and donating quilts to veterans, disaster victims, and local causes.

Sponsored by Edward Jones and Gentiva, the Show Me Sports Roundup is a feature that spotlights local football teams to kick off the new season. This week's edition provides insights and head coach interviews for the Neosho Wildcats, McDonald County Mustangs, Nevada Tigers, and Pittsburg State Gorillas.

This October, Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School in Joplin is celebrating the milestone of surpassing 500 alumni in its 32-year history. The school views the diverse successes of its graduates as a direct reflection of its mission and actively fosters a lifelong connection with them through dedicated events and alumni engagement programs.

With a grant from the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas, special education teacher Rylee Crain transformed an unused office at Park Elementary in Columbus into a sensory room. This new space provides all students with essential tools for emotional regulation, leading to a significant decrease in behavioral issues and an increase in their readiness to learn.