Kathleen Swift

Mark Metsker, Webb City Fire Department battalion chief, reflects on 40 years of diverse firefighting and emergency work. He leads a crew of six, emphasizes ongoing training, and coordinates with Joplin Fire Department. Metsker values the job’s variety and camaraderie and looks forward to retirement later this year.

The 11th Annual Nature Photo Cover Contest received 100 stunning entries celebrating local wildlife and scenery, with proceeds benefiting Wildcat Glades Friends Group. First place went to Mike Ritzman for his photo of a blue heron at sunset. Amy Watts earned second for a northern mockingbird image, and Noel Gleen took third with a close-up of a young kestrel. Thirteen-year-old Wyett Griffin won the Kids Contest with a shot of a green snake, and Ashlyn Henderson’s photo of fledgling vireos was the Facebook Favorite.

Mother-daughter duo Deanna Ness and Beth Stewart combined their entrepreneurial talents to run two thriving businesses—Belles and Beaus Boutique and Second Edition Consignment—under one roof in Nevada, Missouri. Their shared space allows customers to shop, consign, and earn credit seamlessly between both stores. With strong community support, a well-timed website launch, and a dedicated team, the pair have built a successful, customer-focused retail experience.

Artist and community leader Linda Teeter has been instrumental in revitalizing downtown Joplin through the arts, founding the Joplin Arts District and First Thursday Artwalk. Despite a recent cancer diagnosis, she remains committed to promoting the 56-block district as a vibrant destination for galleries, restaurants, events, and cultural tourism. With new signage, maps, and marketing efforts, Teeter hopes to attract visitors, support local businesses, and celebrate Joplin’s diverse and historic arts scene.

Buck Owen, school resource officer at McDonald County High School, overcame childhood leukemia and a recent liver transplant to serve his community. Combining his passions for teaching and law enforcement, he focuses on mentoring students and building trust, seeing them as part of his family. Supported by the community through his health challenges, Owen finds purpose in helping students navigate their struggles with understanding and care.

Paula Baker, CEO of Freeman Health System, balances a busy work life with holiday traditions focused on family and faith. Despite pandemic challenges, her family keeps Christmas joyful with decorating, baking, and local events like the Joplin Christmas parade. She stays active daily by running stairs at work and looks forward to a healthier, COVID-free 2021.

Teddy Steen, inspired by George Washington Carver’s philosophy “Lift as you climb,” overcame addiction and built a life dedicated to helping others. After 33 years of sobriety and a long career, she founded ASCENT Recovery and later the Recovery Outreach Community Center to support those battling addiction, especially fathers affected by meth use. Through faith-based programs and community collaboration, Steen empowers individuals to transform their lives and become positive influences in their families.

David and Alice Lynn Greenwood-Mathé, both artists, have transformed their 1890s home into a vibrant art studio and gallery filled with creativity and love. Their unique space features stained glass windows, a hidden window restoration, and an outdoor shade garden with handmade walkways, sculptures, and a meditation area. Embracing art in every aspect of life, they turn found objects into beauty and have made their home a magical, eclectic showcase of their artistic spirit.

Christian Heady, an 11-year-old with a rare cancer, is bravely undergoing chemotherapy and surgery with strong family and community support. His parents share updates and fundraising efforts through Facebook pages. Despite challenges, Christian remains positive and inspiring.