Articles

Zena Suri Alpacas in Zena, Oklahoma, recently took home five national awards for their luxurious fleece, including top honors for their gray alpaca, Henny Penny. Owners Kathleen and Tom Callan credit good genetics—and a peaceful life—for their alpacas’ success.

Dr. Beth Garrett, a pediatrician at Freeman Children’s Clinic in Joplin, sees every child as part of her extended family. From newborns to teens, she cherishes helping young patients grow, thrive, and succeed—calling pediatrics her true calling.

Lifelong Carthage arts advocate Sandy Higgins has been named grand marshal of the 52nd Annual Maple Leaf Parade. Known for co-founding artCentral and supporting generations of local artists, Higgins will be honored for her decades of service to the community during the October 20 parade and surrounding festivities.

Fitness is about more than appearance—it's about building a body and mindset that support your life and goals. Lauden Baker shares how personal experiences, from sports to dance to working at the YMCA, helped shape a lifelong journey of health and self-discovery. Being "Fit for Life" means finding joy in movement and embracing wellness in every season.

Pinecones make versatile, budget-friendly décor that can transition seamlessly from fall to winter. With a glue gun and a little creativity, you can create elegant displays using pinecones on candlesticks, grapevine trees, or in glass vases. Add seasonal touches like pumpkins or garland to adapt them for Halloween or fall themes.

The Downtown Joplin Alliance’s September First Friday Wine Share was hosted in a newly renovated historic building by Neal Group Construction, featuring eco-friendly upgrades. This monthly event encourages community networking by inviting guests to share wine or craft beer at rotating downtown venues.

Dr. David Eisenhauer at Mercy Clinic Orthopedics specializes in shoulder, elbow, and hand surgeries, with a focus on compassionate, conservative care. He emphasizes non-surgical treatments first and finds fulfillment in restoring mobility and relieving pain for his patients.

Three local groups—SNC Squared, Joplin Elk’s Lodge, and JOMO Adventures—presented donations totaling over $18,000 to Circles-Joplin to support poverty elimination efforts. The funds were raised through events like a dunk tank, charity breakfast, and a bicycle ride.

The seventh annual Pink Ribbon Gala, held July 20 at Indigo Sky Casino, raised over $110,000 to support the Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks. The event featured auctions, entertainment, and honored Eastern Shawnee Tribe Chief Glenna Wallace for her contributions.