Amy Howe

Slumber Soiree, founded by Skye Edwards and Brittany Borries, offers hassle-free themed sleepover parties for kids and adults in the Joplin area, handling setup and takedown to create memorable, stress-free events right in your home.

Glenna Wallace became the first elected female chief of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe and has been reelected three times, breaking barriers while leading the tribe's efforts to give back to the Seneca community that supported them for years. The tribe now provides services open to everyone and made major contributions to Seneca's fire station and police department, expressing gratitude for the community's historical support.

Show Me The Ozarks Magazine featured their Most Influential People showcase highlighting community leaders who have stepped up to influence positive change and make a difference in their communities over the past year. The feature celebrates proven leaders across various industries for their passion, service, and positive impact on their neighbors and communities.

Modern Variety celebrated 60 years in business in 2022, having started as a toy store by J.D. Pilkenton in July 1962 in Aurora, Missouri. Now managed by Pilkenton's sons Scott and Ben, the family-run business offers unique and eclectic items alongside traditional toys at locations in Aurora and Monett.

Mark Myers has been running for over 25 years and shares his passion with son Landin, who was born with cerebral palsy but competes in races and encourages other athletes despite multiple leg surgeries. The duo participates in various events together, from 5Ks to triathlons, while Mark teaches others through the Run for God program connecting spiritual and physical health.

Connie Miller creates Midcentury Pop Art using bright acrylics, painting people without faces alongside animals, flowers, and birds to allow viewers to see themselves in her work. After careers in art education and counseling, she now focuses on her colorful, optimistic paintings displayed at Joplin galleries.

Married couple Ken and Kristina discuss running Bailey's Family Dining together, sharing how working as best friends has strengthened their marriage while they balance business challenges with plans to expand catering and charity fundraising.

Cowin Construction, founded by Ken Cowin over 50 years ago and now run by son Daniel, operates as a three-generation family roofing and construction business specializing in copper work across the Four States region.

Dallas String Quartet will perform their Electric Christmas show December 11 at Ozark Christian College Chapel, presented by Connect2Culture, featuring reimagined holiday classics performed on electric and traditional string instruments.