Articles

Carl Junction is decked out for the holidays, starting with festive decorations at the Welcome Garden and the Community Christmas Tree on Pennell Street. Local groups and businesses brighten Main Street with lights, creating a warm atmosphere for holiday shopping and events. Don’t miss the annual Christmas parade on December 2nd, and enjoy all the unique shops and eateries the town has to offer this season.

Rustan Crockett finds running to be both a challenge and a comfort—a way to push himself through hard moments while embracing something pure and familiar. For him, running isn’t just about athletics, but about persevering in the “race of life,” staying healthy for his family, and leading by example as an elementary PE teacher. Whether it’s tough or fun, running keeps him moving forward with purpose.

The best Christmas gift you can give kids isn’t a toy or gadget—it’s the experience of outdoor adventures like fishing, hiking, and camping that create lifelong memories. As the hunting season winds down, stay positive and enjoy the simple pleasures, like making venison jerky or feeding winter birds from inside your home. And don’t forget to take a moment to thank our military, veterans, and first responders for their sacrifices during this holiday season.

Downtown Joplin is brimming with holiday spirit this December, from the 48th Annual Christmas Parade to art shows, festive films, and shopping. Don’t miss First Thursday ArtWalk, the Alternative Christmas Fair, or a cozy night at Bookhouse Cinema. Bundle up and enjoy the magic of the season in the heart of JOMO!

Sandy Robinson creates one-of-a-kind jewelry that’s rustic yet refined, drawing inspiration from nature and Art Deco influences. Working with opals, silver, and copper, she lets each design unfold organically. Her passion shines through every handmade piece.

Add timeless charm to your home with vintage Christmas décor like mercury glass ornaments, flocked trees, and classic red-and-white palettes. Incorporate handmade touches, burlap, and ribbon for a nostalgic feel. Vintage style makes the season warm, simple, and beautifully memorable.

Birdwatching offers cozy, low-cost entertainment during chilly December days. Jeff Cantrell encourages setting up feeders with black oil sunflower seeds to attract a variety of winter birds. Whether it’s a handmade feeder or just seed on the ground, it’s a simple way to bring nature to your window this season.

The Haun family brings a playful yet classic charm to their historic Queen Anne-style home each Christmas. With natural greenery, soft white lights, and comic book touches in the old carriage house studio, their décor blends tradition with fun. Lori Haun calls it “a Christmas house,” and it certainly lives up to the name.

Wayne and Kaie Stephenson bring timeless holiday charm to their 1922 Murphysburg home with classic décor, a live tree, and family traditions. From nutcrackers to a poinsettia-themed dining room, every detail reflects their love of Christmas and the joy of making memories with their children.