Don Lowe

Carthage senior Lexa Youngblood is a standout softball player known for her speed, versatility, and leadership as the Lady Tigers’ centerfielder. Praised by Coach Stephanie Ray for her defensive range, offensive power, and positive attitude, Lexa is also a three-sport athlete and top student, setting a high standard both on and off the field.

Boots Court Motel in Carthage, Missouri, a historic Route 66 landmark since 1939, has been fully restored and continues to attract travelers from around the world with its vintage charm, celebrity history, and unique architecture. Managed by Jeremy Morris, the motel features renovated rooms, a retro gift shop, new murals by local artists, and a strong sense of community heritage, earning national recognition for preservation as it prepares for Route 66’s centennial celebrations.

Monett Senior High’s cross country teams, led by veteran coach Kelly George, feature a close-knit, experienced boys’ squad and a promising duo of freshman girls. Both groups are praised for their teamwork, leadership, and dedication, with returning athletes aiming for strong seasons and newcomers showing talent and drive. Coach George is optimistic about their potential and the supportive, hardworking culture within the teams.

The Exeter Corn Maze in Southwest Missouri, run by the Cole family since 2010, offers a wide array of fall attractions including a corn maze, pumpkin patch, haunted houses, petting zoo, rides, and seasonal foods. Known for its creative designs and ever-expanding activities, the destination provides affordable, family-friendly fun and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages, while also supporting local youth employment and school field trips.

The 81st Annual Lamar Free Fair, a longstanding tradition in Lamar, Missouri, continues to unite the community with a week of festivities including a carnival, local vendors, contests, parades, and live entertainment. Founded by Bud Moore and now run by his sons Ed and Terry Moore, the fair remains free to attend, with affordable activities and a special concert by country star Clay Walker. The event is made possible by dedicated volunteers and local organizations, celebrating community spirit and family fun in downtown Lamar.

Barco Drive-In in Lamar, Missouri, is celebrating its 75th season as a beloved family entertainment destination, having overcome recent hardships including the loss of a family member and storm damage to its screen. Managed by Scott and Pam Kelley and supported by the local community, Barco continues to thrive, offering classic drive-in movie experiences and retro concessions, and remains a cherished gathering place for Barton County and beyond.

The 152nd annual Quapaw Powwow, held July 4-7 at Beaver Springs Park in Quapaw, Oklahoma, celebrates the tribe’s rich traditions with dance, music, food, and family gatherings. The event features inter-tribal dancing, traditional ceremonies for children, and memorial dances, welcoming both Native and non-Native visitors to experience and honor Quapaw culture and community.

Ryan Sprague, a junior at Carl Junction High School, has excelled in trampoline and tumbling, winning both the Region 4 and Missouri State Championships in Level 10 Double Mini Trampoline and qualifying for his third consecutive USAG Nationals. Recently named Missouri’s USAG Athlete of the Year, Sprague credits his success to dedication, consistency, and a positive mindset, with ambitions to reach elite and international competition levels in the future.

Craig Fox, recently named Carl Junction Junior High’s Teacher of the Year, found his calling in education after careers in radiology and small business. Now teaching hands-on science and technology classes and coaching multiple sports, Fox values building relationships with students and colleagues, drawing on his diverse life experiences to inspire and support those around him.