Kathleen Swift

Show Me The Ozarks Magazine’s 18th Annual Baby Contest showcased the cutest babies in the Four States, with all entry fees supporting the local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital. Eleanor Katzer won first place, followed by Zimery Hobbs and Matteo Smith, while Owen Jones was the Facebook Fan Favorite. Several honorable mentions also highlighted sweet and happy little ones loved by their families.

Lori Marble suffered from hemidystonia, a condition causing abnormal movements and unsteady walking due to brain signals not properly reaching her left side. After a serious fall led to a brain bleed, she was treated by specialists at Mercy Hospital, including Dr. Kevin Mansfield, who performed deep brain stimulation surgery while she was asleep. The procedure involved implanting electrodes in her brain connected to a chest battery, which has significantly improved her gait and hand dexterity. Lori’s story highlights the power of medical science and advanced treatments, giving her renewed confidence and mobility.

The Joplin Kiwanis Club, established in 1920 as Missouri’s third Kiwanis chapter, is celebrating 100 years of community service focused on youth. Over the decades, the club has contributed to numerous civic projects, charitable causes, and annual events like Christmas parties for children in need. Today, it continues its legacy through fundraisers, scholarships, support for local organizations, and community festivals—always aiming to improve and transform Joplin.

Jonathan Dawson, vice president and branch manager of SMB’s Zora branch, brings 14 years of banking experience and a strong commitment to community service. A Webb City native, he actively supports local education, youth programs, and first responders through initiatives like the MUSCLE program and Four State Friends of the NRA Foundation. Outside work, he enjoys outdoor activities with his family and embraces a hands-on approach to making his community better.

Connect2Culture presents The Choir of Man, a lively, family-friendly Irish pub-themed concert coming to Joplin Memorial Hall on March 10. Featuring nine talented men performing pub tunes, folk, rock, and Broadway numbers with interactive fun and a working bar on stage, the show has enjoyed worldwide success since its 2017 debut. Tickets range from $21 to $31 and include chances to join the cast for a pint. It’s a must-see musical event celebrating music, community, and men’s health awareness.

Joe Davis became an unexpected local historian through his volunteer work scanning photos and researching Lamar’s history for the Barton County Historical Society. He now writes articles about the town’s past and leads efforts to transform the old Barton County Memorial Hospital site into a memorial park honoring WWII veterans. Passionate about preserving Lamar’s heritage, Davis continues to uncover stories and share them with the community.

Steve Russ combines his roles as pastor, pharmacist, and medical center board chairman to serve the Nevada, Missouri community holistically. After overcoming addiction and regaining his pharmacy license, he now focuses on integrating mental health and behavioral support within healthcare and community services. Through his church and board work, Russ emphasizes collaboration and outreach to improve community well-being beyond traditional settings.

Traci Cliffman turned her passion for cooking into Kitchen Essentials, a family-run store in Nevada, Missouri, focused on bringing families together through cooking and sharing meals. The store offers kitchen gadgets, cookware, specialty foods, and wedding registries, along with cooking classes to support home cooks. Kitchen Essentials is dedicated to helping customers find useful tools and fostering a love for cooking at home.

South of Lamar, Missouri, exciting developments include the opening of Mother Tucker’s Pizza, a family-friendly pizzeria with fresh, made-from-scratch food and a scenic patio overlooking Jeremy’s Creek Golf Course. The formerly private course is now public, offering affordable golf, FootGolf, and upgraded facilities. Nearby, Clear Creek Golf Car has also opened a new dealership, providing rentals, sales, and service for golf and utility vehicles.