Articles

The Great Race, a renowned vintage car rally spanning nine states, will make an overnight stop in Joplin on June 28, bringing 120 classic cars and international teams for a festival-like event on Main Street that celebrates automotive history and community.

The 151st Quapaw Powwow in Quapaw, Oklahoma, celebrates tribal heritage with four days of traditional songs, dances, contests, and community, welcoming both Native and non-Native participants to honor and preserve Quapaw culture.

The Joplin Outlaws, a collegiate summer baseball team in the M.I.N.K. League, kick off their 2023 season at Joe Becker Stadium with a focus on team chemistry, strong offense, and family-friendly entertainment for local fans.

Connect2Culture’s June lineup at Joplin’s Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex features BritBeat, a Beatles tribute show with multimedia and costume changes, and A’lante Flamenco, an Austin-based group blending traditional and contemporary flamenco music and dance.

Elizabeth Merrell, this year’s Elementary Teacher of the Year, has taught kindergarten for 19 years and will “loop” with her class into first grade, cherishing strong student connections and striving to make learning fun and impactful for every child.

Inspired by teachers and literary characters, Amanda Royster became a passionate educator and now serves as Carl Junction’s District Teacher of the Year, finding fulfillment in supporting students and fostering connections as a library media specialist.

Joplin Floor Designs, a family-run business for over 50 years, offers quality flooring and countertop products with a focus on personal service, earning customer loyalty and referrals throughout the Four-State Area.

Barbara Hicklin, a representational painter in Joplin, continually hones her watercolor and oil painting skills through lessons, teaching, and collaboration, drawing inspiration from nature and believing that artistic talent is nurtured through persistent practice.

Courtney’s Candles & Creations, a four-generation family business in Joplin, began as a home candle-making hobby and now produces and sells a wide range of home fragrance products both locally and online, continuing to grow while keeping family at its core.