Articles

Jamey and Terryk Richardson, brothers from Riverton, Kansas, are set to represent the USA at the Paris World Games this June. Basketball has been a lifelong passion for the duo, inspired by their late father, Jamey Sr., and supported by their mom, Jennifer. Selected for their skill and dedication, the brothers see this as a chance to honor their dad, experience a new culture, and play together on an international stage—a dream come true for their family.

In Northeast Oklahoma, a cement mixer abandoned after a 1959 (or 1971) truck accident was transformed into the "Winganon Space Capsule" in 2011 by local artists Barry and Heather Thomas. Painted to resemble a NASA capsule, it remains a quirky roadside attraction on East 300 Rd., near Highway 169, despite potential road construction.

At 80, Joe Cox, a lifelong farmer from Welch, Oklahoma, faced years of struggle after losing his leg in a 1988 farm accident. After trying countless prosthetic providers with little success, everything changed when he found Grand Prosthetics in Grove, Oklahoma. Thanks to Andy and Beverly Helms’ personalized care, Joe finally received a prosthetic that fit perfectly, allowing him to return to the active life he loves. Now, Joe pays it forward, sharing their name with others in need, grateful to be back on his feet—one step at a time.

NEO A&M’s retired softball coach Eric Iverson and current wrestling coach Joe Renfro will be honored at the inaugural NJCAA Legacy Awards Luncheon, recognizing their remarkable careers. Iverson, with 1,116 wins and 33 All-Americans, credits his success to hard work and the support of players, coaches, and family. Renfro, with 254 wins, 142 All-Americans, and 22 national champions, emphasizes the team effort behind his achievements. Both coaches view the honor as a reflection of the people who shaped their programs and the lasting impact of NEO’s commitment to excellence.

In 2011, a single email from 13-year-old weather enthusiast Chad Crilley to Joplin meteorologist Doug Heady sparked a mentorship that shaped Chad’s career. Visiting Joplin on May 22, the day of the devastating EF-5 tornado, solidified Chad’s purpose: to protect lives through meteorology. Over the years, Doug guided Chad’s journey, from high school to becoming a chief meteorologist and now an independent broadcaster. Their bond, born from a shared passion for weather, highlights the power of mentorship and the lasting impact of a single connection.

Nine-year-old Quinley Inman, a fifth-generation cowgirl from Ketchum, Oklahoma, is the 2024 INFR Barrel Racing Champion, demonstrating exceptional skill in multiple rodeo events alongside her cherished horse, Socks. She dedicates herself to training, traveling extensively for competitions across North America, and has already achieved significant winnings and titles, inspiring other young riders. Quinley continues to excel, leading junior barrel standings and aiming for further success at the Junior INFR in Las Vegas.

Kristin and Bryce Robertson's Centennial Roots Homestead, built on ancestral land, revives traditional skills through hands-on workshops and connects people to their food's origins. Their new Gardens project further fosters community and learning about edible and medicinal plants, honoring family legacy while cultivating a conscious new generation.

Becky Lowery, 58, began running in her 40s for fitness, but her competitive nature quickly led her to racing, where she found success despite overcoming significant injuries. She now regularly participates in various events, including Senior Games, driven by the sense of accomplishment, the supportive running community, and the goal of running in all 50 states.

St. Martin's Academy, a boarding school for young men, aims to cultivate "saints" by fostering a deep relationship with Jesus Christ through a rigorous, screen-free environment of work, study, and prayer. President Daniel Kerr emphasizes character development, servant leadership, and practical skills gained from farm work, intending to form confident, well-rounded "Men in the Arena."