Kathleen Swift

Jim Patterson has spent over 30 years helping Joplin businesses grow through advertising with Cable One. Now an integrated media consultant, he helps clients reach targeted audiences through cutting-edge digital platforms. His passion for local business and evolving tech keeps him at the forefront of marketing innovation.

With 50 years in the business, Allyn Burt of Charles Burt Realtors and Molandco Construction has helped shape Joplin’s housing market. From custom builds to in-house financing, his team makes homeownership simple and accessible. His legacy: turning houses into homes since 1974.

The Coleman Theatre in Miami, Oklahoma, celebrates its 90th anniversary on April 18 with a special showing of The Wizard of Oz and birthday festivities. This historic theater, known for its stunning Louis XV interior, attracts visitors from around the world. A fundraiser is underway to upgrade its sound and lighting systems to keep the venue modern and vibrant.

Inspired by firsthand experience, 19-year-old Patrick Haase created the Building Safe app to give schools a fast, secure way to alert staff and first responders in emergencies—helping students feel safer with just the push of a button.

Solace House will offer a peaceful, home-like setting for individuals in their final days, providing 24/7 care and comfort at no cost to families. This community-funded sanctuary ensures no one faces the end of life alone.

John Starchman, general manager at Red Onion Cafe, lost 146 pounds following a keto diet after struggling with weight and diabetes risk. Inspired by social media and scientific research, he helped launch the restaurant’s popular low-carb, gluten-free “Food for Life” menu, offering healthy, whole-food options that benefit many customers.

Twisted Oak and Co. is a unique boutique in Webb City offering distinctive clothing, accessories, home décor, and more, all rooted in strong community ties. Owned by three partners, the store focuses on quality, local vendors, and supporting community events. This spring, they’re introducing “Tasty Tuesdays” with tastings and special sales to engage and celebrate local groups.

Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce President Toby Teeter is leading a push toward healthier, more active lifestyles in the community, recognizing their impact on quality of life and economic growth. With expanded trail systems and partnerships promoting physical activity in schools and businesses, the Chamber aims to make Joplin more attractive to younger professionals. Teeter envisions blending business with wellness, like hosting meetings on bike rides, to modernize Chamber engagement and boost local vitality.

Missouri Southern State University is launching a new Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration this fall, offering the region’s only program focused on the business side of healthcare. Housed in the Gipson Center for Healthcare Leadership, the program combines business, communication, and health sciences with hands-on learning and internships to prepare students for management roles in the industry.