Articles

The Carl Junction Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Business Expo March 1–2 with a lively Disco Expo Inferno theme. The event features local businesses showcasing products and services, family-friendly activities, giveaways, and special guests like Scooby-Doo. Admission, parking, and shuttle service are all free, making it a fun community event for all ages.

March skies in Missouri offer stunning sunsets rich with vibrant colors caused by atmospheric particles, creating a natural spectacle especially visible at wetlands. As spring approaches, wildlife such as ducks begin their breeding displays, adding to the season’s beauty. Naturalist Jeff Cantrell encourages observers to enjoy these moments with journals, binoculars, or cameras to connect deeply with the awakening landscape.

Downtown Joplin is buzzing with spring events this March, including the First Friday WineShare, Third Thursday market, and ongoing exhibitions at Spiva Center for the Arts. Enjoy local shops, food trucks, live entertainment, and film screenings at Bookhouse Cinema. It’s the perfect time to celebrate the season with art, community, and fun in the heart of the city.

Mikaela Cox, a junior pitcher for the Missouri Southern Lady Lions, has grown in confidence and skill since transitioning from a standout high school career. Under new coach Hallie Blackney, Cox’s mental game and pitching abilities—especially her spin and control—have improved significantly. Known for her strong work ethic and positive attitude, Cox is poised to leave a lasting impact on the program.

Even in early spring, camping can be enjoyable with the right gear—like a warm canvas tent and a high-quality sleeping bag. The Kodiak Canvas Z Top™ offers innovative features to keep campers warm and comfortable. As nature begins to stir, it’s the perfect time to hike, explore, and appreciate the subtle signs of the changing season.

The Joplin High School JROTC program—potentially the oldest continuous program in the U.S.—celebrates its 100th anniversary on March 30 with a parade, open house, and formal banquet. Founded in 1919, the program has shaped generations of cadets through leadership, discipline, and community service. The celebration invites the public to honor a century of impact on Joplin’s youth and civic life.

Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce President Toby Teeter is leading a push toward healthier, more active lifestyles in the community, recognizing their impact on quality of life and economic growth. With expanded trail systems and partnerships promoting physical activity in schools and businesses, the Chamber aims to make Joplin more attractive to younger professionals. Teeter envisions blending business with wellness, like hosting meetings on bike rides, to modernize Chamber engagement and boost local vitality.

Missouri Southern State University is launching a new Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration this fall, offering the region’s only program focused on the business side of healthcare. Housed in the Gipson Center for Healthcare Leadership, the program combines business, communication, and health sciences with hands-on learning and internships to prepare students for management roles in the industry.

The Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex will be a transformative, state-of-the-art cultural hub in downtown Joplin. With performance halls, art galleries, outdoor venues, and a rooftop terrace, it will house both Connect2Culture and Spiva Center for the Arts, expanding access to visual and performing arts while energizing the community and economy.