Allison Lee Riechman-Bennett

Carl Junction students are starting the year with a brand-new facility built for Air Force JROTC and Archery, giving both programs room to grow, train, and compete while strengthening the sense of pride and opportunity within the district.

Mosaic, a Pittsburg-based organization, provides supportive services that empower individuals with developmental disabilities to live independently and build community. The powerful, long-lasting friendship between two clients, Bootsie and Terri, exemplifies how Mosaic's person-centered care fosters meaningful relationships and helps people live fulfilling lives together.

From August 25-31, Pittsburg, Kansas, celebrates the 40th anniversary of Little Balkans Days, a festival honoring the region's Balkan immigrant heritage through a week of cultural events featuring food, music, and arts. The festival offers activities for the whole family, with special events accessible via a $5 passport.

David and Sherry Manke, founders of Purcraftea, are bringing their passion for traditional Chinese tea to the world. After years of sourcing high-quality, pesticide-free teas from 300-year-old trees in China, the couple is eager to share their spiritual approach to tea culture. While U.S. tariffs currently limit shipping, they plan to introduce their products at farmers’ markets in Southwest Missouri, offering a mindful tea experience that blends tradition, quality, and education.

Show Me The Ozarks Magazine featured 10 single individuals from the Four-State Area sharing their personal stories, relationship goals, dealbreakers, and what they're looking for in a partner. The diverse group ranged in age from 23 to 64 and included professionals from various fields such as restaurant workers, business owners, medical sales managers, and nonprofit directors.

Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks launched their U35 Program in April 2022 to provide diagnostic testing assistance for men and women under 35 after recognizing a gap in existing programs that only serve those 35 and older. The program was created after three young women called seeking help for breast cancer diagnosis but were denied due to age restrictions and cost barriers.

Monett native Brittany Washam dedicates her life to community service through teaching at Drury University and serving as executive board chair for Monett Young Professionals Network. Her passion for volunteering began when her family received support from Children's Miracle Network and Ronald McDonald House during her son's NICU stay.