Show Me Staff

Jessica Taylor, owner and certified instructor at Four States Yoga, explains that Barre combines ballet, yoga, Pilates, and strength training for a fun, low-impact workout that builds muscle and melts inches fast. Since adding Barre two years ago, it’s become a favorite class for all fitness levels, especially beginners. Taylor encourages trying Barre two to three times a week for best results and says the welcoming studio is perfect for anyone starting their fitness journey.

Taylor Mailes, a senior at Seneca, is a standout long jumper who won a state championship as a sophomore despite only starting track in eighth grade. Known for her discipline, explosiveness, and focus, she overcomes challenges like limited practice facilities with determination. Coach Morgan Rodriguez praises Taylor not only for her athletic talent but also for her strong character and dedication both on and off the field.

Haven 55 is a cozy country restaurant in Pineville offering homestyle food with a stunning view of Little Sugar Creek. Owned and led by Executive Chef Alan Bone, it’s known for favorites like New York strip steak, fried green beans, and nightly specials including fried catfish and prime rib. The dining room’s floor-to-ceiling windows showcase peaceful wildlife, making it a charming spot off the beaten path.

McDonald County Telephone, a family-owned business since 1957, has continually adapted to changing technology, pioneering fiber optic internet in the mid-1990s. Led today by third-generation vice president Aaron Gent, alongside his father Ross Babbit and sister Ruth Roessler, the company aims to bring fiber service to 100% of its customers by 2025 while maintaining strong community ties and excellent customer service. The legacy of founder family members remains central to their mission.

Rebecca Bender is a family nurse practitioner at Freeman Clinic of Anderson, providing care for patients of all ages, from newborns to seniors. With 20 years of nursing experience and a master’s degree from the University of Missouri–Kansas City, she values building long-term patient relationships and giving back to her hometown community. In her free time, she enjoys outdoor activities with her children, singing in her church choir, and traveling.

Evenson, Carlin & Weber, LLC, based in McDonald County, Missouri, offers comprehensive legal services across criminal and civil law, including real estate, estate planning, elder law, probate, and family law. Attorney William G. Weber emphasizes building strong client relationships to tailor effective solutions for each case. The firm has successfully handled a wide range of cases, from major felonies to business litigation involving millions.

Lily Allman, a 16-year-old sophomore on the McDonald County Lady Mustangs golf team, has quickly become a standout player with her strong mental toughness and excellent short game. After playing her freshman year on the boys’ team, Lily helped lead the Lady Mustangs to a third-place finish in their first Big 8 Conference Tournament. Her coach praises her focus and skill, expecting even greater success in the coming years.

Carl Junction is decked out for the holidays, starting with festive decorations at the Welcome Garden and the Community Christmas Tree on Pennell Street. Local groups and businesses brighten Main Street with lights, creating a warm atmosphere for holiday shopping and events. Don’t miss the annual Christmas parade on December 2nd, and enjoy all the unique shops and eateries the town has to offer this season.

The best Christmas gift you can give kids isn’t a toy or gadget—it’s the experience of outdoor adventures like fishing, hiking, and camping that create lifelong memories. As the hunting season winds down, stay positive and enjoy the simple pleasures, like making venison jerky or feeding winter birds from inside your home. And don’t forget to take a moment to thank our military, veterans, and first responders for their sacrifices during this holiday season.