Articles

Col. Dean Barrett of Grove, Oklahoma, celebrated his 103rd birthday on September 20, 2022, as a distinguished World War II Air Force veteran who served 30 years in active and reserve duties. The lifelong Oklahoma resident had an extensive career in agriculture through Oklahoma State University and made significant contributions to his community through various civic organizations.

Watered Gardens Ministries hosted its 10th Annual Empty Bowls fundraiser on November 17 at Empire Market, where patrons purchase handcrafted pottery bowls and enjoy donated soup to raise funds for local hunger relief. Each bowl purchased represents 15 meals provided to organizations including Mission Joplin, We Care of the Four States, Hope Kitchen, and Watered Gardens Ministries.

Neosho Superintendent Jim Cummins oversees significant district improvements including a performing arts center completion in April 2023, a new K-4 STEAM school opening in 2023, and a 10% increase in graduation rates over three years. The district also achieved the highest growth of any iReady school in Missouri in 2021 through enhanced student mentoring programs and career exploration initiatives.

Soroptimist International of Joplin celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Live Your Dream Awards program, which has distributed over $35 million to more than 35,000 women since 1972. The program provides flexible financial assistance to women who are primary household providers pursuing undergraduate degrees or vocational training, with local awards starting at $1,000.

The Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex opened in downtown Joplin in November 2022 after 15 years of planning and over $19 million in fundraising, becoming the new home for George A. Spiva Center for the Arts and Connect2Culture. The complex features a 435-seat performance hall, four art galleries, and an outdoor amphitheater, fulfilling Harry Cornell's vision to support local artists and provide a major community cultural asset.

Outdoor educator Jeff Cantrell describes the magical "golden hour" before sunset in autumn when wind lessens, light shines horizontally across the landscape, and the Ozarks display their peak fall colors and sounds. He encourages nature lovers to experience this special time, highlighting native plants like aromatic asters and fragrant sumac that provide continuing beauty past the first frosts.

Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks launched their U35 Program in April 2022 to provide diagnostic testing assistance for men and women under 35 after recognizing a gap in existing programs that only serve those 35 and older. The program was created after three young women called seeking help for breast cancer diagnosis but were denied due to age restrictions and cost barriers.

Carthage runner Brady Beckam evolved from competitive racing starting at age 9 to practicing "hippie running" focused on enjoyment, adventure, and stress relief rather than times and competition. He now approaches running as part of his identity, taking a relaxed approach that includes stopping for beers during marathons and photographing scenery during ultra-distance events.

Carthage Lady Tigers sophomore Shay Gaddis has become a standout golfer in just one year since picking up the sport in 2021, with Coach James Newman praising her exceptional ball-striking ability. The 15-year-old aspires to play college golf and beyond while continuing to develop her game with two more years of high school eligibility remaining.