Articles

Frank Halsey of Fort Scott, Kansas, transformed Gunn Park into a mountain biking destination by hand-building eight miles of trails with the help of volunteers. Since 2009, the trails have hosted events like the Marmaton Massacre Festival and the Tri-Yak-A-Thon, attracting riders and athletes from across the Midwest. Halsey takes pride in creating a space for the biking community while showcasing the beauty of Fort Scott, all through teamwork and a passion for the sport.

Cottey College in Nevada, Missouri, has launched the Dream Big! Stay Close program, offering full tuition coverage to eligible women from six Southwest Missouri counties. Designed to make higher education accessible, the initiative supports students who qualify for the Pell Grant and Access Missouri Grant, empowering them to pursue their dreams while staying connected to their communities. With small class sizes, leadership programs, and a vibrant campus, Cottey provides a transformative education close to home.

Cohn’s Café in Fort Scott, Kansas, is a historic gem blending community, quality, and local craftsmanship. Owned by Tracy and Kathy Dancer, the café offers fresh, locally sourced meals, a Roaring Twenties atmosphere, and unique experiences like The Green Lantern Speakeasy. Housed in the restored Scottish Rite Temple, the space also features a Mercantile and Market with Kansas-made goods. With plans for a distillery and seasonal dinner menus, Cohn’s Café continues to honor the past while shaping the future of Fort Scott’s downtown.

Higher Power Garage in Joplin, Missouri, founded by Mike Gideon, is a nonprofit auto repair shop empowering individuals through affordable car repairs, financial education, and community service. Programs like Barriers to Work help clients like single mom Kassidey Borland regain independence with reliable transportation and life skills. With growing demand, the garage continues to expand its services, offering hope and practical solutions to those in need.

The Boutique Marketplace in Nevada, Missouri, is more than a store—it’s a community where faith, fashion, and connection come together. Owner Stephanie Mosher combines a boutique of hand-selected items with a consignment space, supporting local dreamers and offering a welcoming environment. With initiatives like free cross bracelets, a quiet “Room for You,” and a focus on love and faith, Stephanie has created a space where everyone feels seen, valued, and at home.

Gobblers Roost, a reservation-only restaurant near Nevada, Missouri, offers a unique dining experience with generous portions, a beef-centric menu, and five-course meals in a charming countryside setting. Owned by Kent and Kathy Abele, the restaurant is known for its warm hospitality, signature dishes like Morel Mushroom Soup, and cocktails like the Moonshine Margarita. Guests can also enjoy the nearby Little Cedar Cabin for overnight stays or host events at the 3 Cedars Event Center.

Gobblers Roost, a reservation-only restaurant near Nevada, Missouri, offers a unique dining experience with generous portions, a beef-centric menu, and five-course meals in a charming countryside setting. Owned by Kent and Kathy Abele, the restaurant is known for its warm hospitality, signature dishes like Morel Mushroom Soup, and cocktails like the Moonshine Margarita. Guests can also enjoy the nearby Little Cedar Cabin for overnight stays or host events at the 3 Cedars Event Center.

The Community Action Ride System (CARS), launched in May 2024 by the Economic Security Corporation in Joplin, Missouri, provides free transportation for residents in Barton, Jasper, Newton, and McDonald counties. With 30 volunteer drivers, CARS has completed over 12,500 trips, helping clients access work, healthcare, education, and more. Funded by donations and grants, this community-driven program is breaking barriers and changing lives, one ride at a time.

The Annual Cutest Baby Contest showcases adorable local children, with all proceeds from entries benefiting the community's Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. This year's first-place winner is 9-month-old Ellis Belcher, recognized for his bright blue eyes, followed by happy 11-month-old Amarie Washington in second, and energetic 1-year-old Carson Harris in third. Seven-month-old Easton Hamilton, known for his smiles and love for the outdoors, was chosen as the Facebook Fan Favorite.