Articles

Joplin, Missouri, celebrates 152 years of growth, resilience, and revitalization, with its downtown transformation sparked by the city’s 2005 move into the historic Newman Building. Efforts like tax abatements, streetscaping, and the Cornell Complex have attracted investors and reduced storefront vacancies from 75% to just 10-12%. Through partnerships with Downtown Joplin Alliance, the city continues to prioritize historic preservation and development to ensure downtown remains a vibrant destination.

Debra Smith won 1st place in the nature photo contest with her heartwarming shot of three bluebirds at a bird bath on her Joplin property, celebrating Missouri’s state bird. Susan James earned 2nd place for her image of a swallowtail caterpillar on fennel she grew in her Bois D’Arc garden, while Sheila O’Daniel took 3rd with a stunning photo of a hummingbird feeding on a pink flower in Carterville. Thirteen-year-old CAE Wood won the kids’ contest with a creative ground-up view of mushrooms, and Sheila’s hummingbird in sunflowers photo was voted Facebook Fan Favorite.

Kim Friend, a 52-year-old Seneca, Missouri, resident, began running in 2009 to improve her health and has since completed numerous races, including marathons and half marathons, her favorite distance. For Kim, running is more than physical fitness—it’s a source of discipline, gratitude, and spiritual connection, often spent in prayer or reflection. She encourages others to find their own path in fitness, emphasizing consistency and making their own story.

Jeremiah and Jennifer Anderson opened Rooted Action Park in Joplin, Missouri, combining decades of experience and faith to create a unique indoor facility for BMX, skateboards, scooters, and more. Featuring the region’s only indoor pump track and airbags for safe trick practice, the park caters to all skill levels while fostering community, family connections, and faith-based hospitality. Rooted is the culmination of Jeremiah’s lifelong dream to provide a space for action sports enthusiasts to grow, connect, and feel cared for.

Drew Kimble, founder of 12Eighty One, specializes in branded portraits, commercial photography, and architectural images that help businesses and individuals make lasting impressions. With a focus on authenticity and storytelling, Drew’s relaxed approach ensures clients feel confident while showcasing their values. This year, he’s launching My Studio to support aspiring photographers with resources and industry insights.

Kansas City University’s College of Dental Medicine in Joplin is addressing the nationwide dentist shortage by training students, especially from rural areas, to serve underserved communities. With hands-on experience through rotations, community programs, and affordable care at the Oral Health Center, the school emphasizes the connection between oral health and overall well-being while fostering a spirit of curiosity and service among its students.

Kansas City University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine in Joplin, built on the site of a hospital destroyed by the 2011 tornado, has become a vital part of the community since opening in 2017. With a 99% residency placement rate and strong partnerships with local organizations, the school trains students to serve rural and underserved areas while giving back through programs like free health screenings for children and care for underserved populations.

Despite battling rare health conditions like Essential Thrombocythemia and Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension, 18-year-old Stasha Hackler has found purpose and joy in training and showing Gypsy Vanner horses. Her resilience, positivity, and passion for these gentle giants have made her a beloved figure in the show community, inspiring others with her courage and determination.

After being diagnosed with Lupus, Sean Roye turned to running as a way to reclaim his health and faith, logging over 10,000 miles and completing marathons, ultramarathons, and a 100-mile race. For Roye, running is both a physical challenge and spiritual journey, helping him manage his condition, improve mental health, and connect with God through perseverance and determination.