Articles

Spring is the perfect time to start decluttering your home, especially if you plan to sell soon. Break the task into small, manageable steps like sorting items to keep, sell, or donate, and remember to discard expired or unused things. Donating can help others, and rewarding yourself along the way keeps motivation high.

Mercy Clinic Women’s Health offers comprehensive, family-friendly care including private labor and delivery suites, a 24/7 family-access NICU, and supportive services like lactation consulting and a Ronald McDonald Family Room. Their team is committed to providing compassionate care for women and families through all stages of pregnancy and beyond.

Freeman Emergency Department’s Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program provides compassionate, victim-centered care and forensic exams to sexual assault survivors in the Joplin area. Led by Dr. Kathryn Cornelius and Karen Scott, the program supports survivors medically and legally while promoting healing and accountability. Since 2010, it has treated over 400 patients, emphasizing sensitivity, evidence collection, and community collaboration to combat sexual violence.

Teddy Steen’s long-held dream of a Recovery Outreach Community Center (ROCC) is coming closer to reality, aiming to provide a safe, peer-run space for people with substance use disorders and anyone seeking self-sufficiency. With recent funding and community support, Steen and substance abuse counselor Renita Kitchingham are collaborating to present plans to the city for a dedicated facility. Their shared vision focuses on safety, structure, and offering multiple pathways to long-term recovery.

Steve Holt retired after 30 years as Jasper County Collector, celebrated with a party at the Carthage Courthouse. Appointed in 1989, Holt also led state and national collector and finance organizations during his career.

John Starchman, general manager at Red Onion Cafe, lost 146 pounds following a keto diet after struggling with weight and diabetes risk. Inspired by social media and scientific research, he helped launch the restaurant’s popular low-carb, gluten-free “Food for Life” menu, offering healthy, whole-food options that benefit many customers.

The Fifth Annual March O’ the Kidney walk took place on March 9 at Northpark Mall to raise awareness and funds for kidney disease patients. The event supports the Freeman Dialysis Patient Assistance Fund, helping locals with medical and treatment-related costs.

The Joplin Family Y encourages families to embrace swim lessons and water safety as spring arrives, promoting swimming as a lifelong, healthy activity. With over 100 years of experience, the Y offers swim lessons and fitness classes focused on safety and skill-building for all ages. Parents are urged to actively supervise children and follow key water safety tips to keep everyone secure.

The Neosho Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Business Expo drew over 2,300 attendees and nearly 100 vendors, making it their best event yet. Plans for the 2020 expo are underway, scheduled for March 13-14 to align with the local school spring break. Booth reservations will open soon.