Savanah Mandeville

Court clerk Kimberly Clinton, 43, discovered early-stage breast cancer through her first mammogram in 2021, underwent double mastectomy, and is now cancer-free.

Fifth-grade teacher and mother of three Caroline Capehart runs at 4-5 AM to balance her busy schedule and has qualified for the Boston Marathon annually since 2016, despite initially promising her husband she'd stop after her first Boston run. She created a popular school running program at Frank Layden Elementary where students collectively complete a marathon distance throughout the year, and during COVID-19, she turned her virtual Boston Marathon into the community-celebrated "SEK Lemonade Marathon" by running past all her students' houses with police escorts and neighborhood support.

On May 22, 2011, an EF-5 tornado devastated Joplin, Missouri, killing 161 people and destroying 7,500 homes. Ten years later, the Joplin Proud Committee hosted memorial events at Cunningham Park to honor lives lost, reflect on recovery, and celebrate the city’s resilience. The ceremony included speakers, remembrance activities, and a reading of the victims' names at 5:41 pm—the exact time the tornado struck.

Jane Newton’s longtime dream of living in Joplin came true in 2004 when she and her late husband transformed a historic 1900-era building at 502 Main into a stunning, spacious loft home. The solid, soundproof structure features original details like a unique service elevator, alongside modern updates. Jane cherishes the rooftop terrace, sunroom, and the home’s perfect setting for family gatherings and watching the Joplin Christmas parade—fulfilling a childhood wish sparked by memories of shopping downtown.

What began as a college hobby for Rachel Bryan eventually became a source of healing after the unexpected loss of her 13-year-old son, John. She rediscovered her strength through running and completed a half marathon—13.1 miles to honor John’s 13 years of life. Now an assistant cross-country coach and advocate for the mental health benefits of exercise, Rachel encourages others to start small and keep going, even in the face of grief.

Executive Chef Dale Davis has led Indigo Sky Casino’s diverse culinary program since before its opening, overseeing multiple restaurants, catering, and creative menu development. With 40 years of experience, numerous cooking competition wins, and a passion for food artistry, Davis is known for standout dishes like pimento cheese burgers and carved culinary displays. Outside the kitchen, he enjoys family time, metalworking, and tropical travel, and he remains committed to safety and innovation—especially during COVID-19.

After postponing their wedding due to COVID-19, Butch and Jordan Flick found new meaning in rescheduling to a date that honored family and tradition. Their October ceremony, held outdoors in the peak of fall at Greenwood Springs, was filled with personal touches—from antique amber bottles to a salt-mixing ritual inspired by Butch’s mother. Now living in Florida, the couple is embracing newlywed life with their dog, a fixer-upper home, and plenty of fishing and beach days.

The real estate market remains red-hot due to low inventory and historically low interest rates. Local experts Donny Allen, Jo Kleinsorge, and Melissa Gibbens share predictions and advice for buyers, sellers, and investors navigating this competitive landscape. From bidding wars and remote work trends to rural migration and rental opportunities, the outlook points to continued demand and rising prices in 2021.

Gretchen Sharples, a mixed media artist from Anderson, Missouri, channels creativity in everything she does—from painting and decorating to gardening and foraging. Starting about 11 years ago, she uses acrylics combined with unique materials like vintage photos and paper to create nostalgic, nature-inspired art. Her work often features personal and empowering themes, encouraging kindness to others and oneself.