Articles

Gretchen Sharples, a mixed media artist from Anderson, Missouri, channels creativity in everything she does—from painting and decorating to gardening and foraging. Starting about 11 years ago, she uses acrylics combined with unique materials like vintage photos and paper to create nostalgic, nature-inspired art. Her work often features personal and empowering themes, encouraging kindness to others and oneself.

Marilyn Tandy of Countryside in the City shares festive holiday decorating tips to brighten your home during a stay-at-home Christmas. Their expert team offers floral arrangements, garlands, wreaths, and themed decor ranging from rustic charm to classic neutrals and buffalo check. Whether you want personalized designs or pre-decorated trees delivered to your door, Countryside can help create a cozy, stylish holiday atmosphere.

Buck Owen, school resource officer at McDonald County High School, overcame childhood leukemia and a recent liver transplant to serve his community. Combining his passions for teaching and law enforcement, he focuses on mentoring students and building trust, seeing them as part of his family. Supported by the community through his health challenges, Owen finds purpose in helping students navigate their struggles with understanding and care.

Ozark Valley Christmas Tree Farm offers families a festive, hands-on Christmas experience with live tree cutting, hayrides, crafts, and local goods. Owner Charity Keith emphasizes the importance of family traditions and creating lasting memories, especially during uncertain times. This year, the farm has added safety measures like outdoor registers and barnside pickup, plus a whimsical toy shop to delight children.

Paula Baker, CEO of Freeman Health System, balances a busy work life with holiday traditions focused on family and faith. Despite pandemic challenges, her family keeps Christmas joyful with decorating, baking, and local events like the Joplin Christmas parade. She stays active daily by running stairs at work and looks forward to a healthier, COVID-free 2021.

Stephanie Witcher is a busy wife, mother, college instructor, doctoral student, and marathon runner who uses running as her stress relief and “me time.” She started running to lose weight after her first pregnancy and now inspires others through programs like “Read, Run, Repeat” for high school students. Running also brings her close friendships and motivates her to balance life’s many demands.

In 2020, Mark Boyd of Miami, Oklahoma, faced the amputation of his left leg due to a serious infection. Despite setbacks, including COVID-19 delays, with support from his prosthetics team and family, he regained mobility and independence. Mark honors his late father’s legacy through his resilience, patriotism, and dedication to his family.

Club 609, a popular Joplin restaurant and nightlife spot, opened in 1990 after extensive renovations transformed an old building into a vibrant venue. Owned and run by the Williams family across three generations, the business thrives on strong family work ethic and community loyalty. Over the years, Club 609 has stayed successful by balancing fresh updates with tradition, making it a beloved local institution.

Teddy Steen, inspired by George Washington Carver’s philosophy “Lift as you climb,” overcame addiction and built a life dedicated to helping others. After 33 years of sobriety and a long career, she founded ASCENT Recovery and later the Recovery Outreach Community Center to support those battling addiction, especially fathers affected by meth use. Through faith-based programs and community collaboration, Steen empowers individuals to transform their lives and become positive influences in their families.