Show Me Staff

Built in 1895, the beautifully preserved Phelps House in Carthage offers a stunning venue for weddings, events, and the annual Christmas Homes Tour and Tea on December 1. Guests will enjoy historic holiday decor, including Golden Hammer award homes, and an elegant tea service in this architectural gem.

The 53rd Annual Maple Leaf Marching Band Festival will fill Carthage with music on Saturday, October 20, featuring over 20 high school bands from Missouri, Kansas, and Arkansas. Running from 12:30 to 10:30 pm, the event showcases youth talent and dedication in a long-standing competition that draws over 80,000 visitors each year.

Dr. Beth Garrett, a pediatrician at Freeman Children’s Clinic in Joplin, sees every child as part of her extended family. From newborns to teens, she cherishes helping young patients grow, thrive, and succeed—calling pediatrics her true calling.

Lifelong Carthage arts advocate Sandy Higgins has been named grand marshal of the 52nd Annual Maple Leaf Parade. Known for co-founding artCentral and supporting generations of local artists, Higgins will be honored for her decades of service to the community during the October 20 parade and surrounding festivities.

Pinecones make versatile, budget-friendly décor that can transition seamlessly from fall to winter. With a glue gun and a little creativity, you can create elegant displays using pinecones on candlesticks, grapevine trees, or in glass vases. Add seasonal touches like pumpkins or garland to adapt them for Halloween or fall themes.

The Downtown Joplin Alliance’s September First Friday Wine Share was hosted in a newly renovated historic building by Neal Group Construction, featuring eco-friendly upgrades. This monthly event encourages community networking by inviting guests to share wine or craft beer at rotating downtown venues.

Dr. David Eisenhauer at Mercy Clinic Orthopedics specializes in shoulder, elbow, and hand surgeries, with a focus on compassionate, conservative care. He emphasizes non-surgical treatments first and finds fulfillment in restoring mobility and relieving pain for his patients.

Three local groups—SNC Squared, Joplin Elk’s Lodge, and JOMO Adventures—presented donations totaling over $18,000 to Circles-Joplin to support poverty elimination efforts. The funds were raised through events like a dunk tank, charity breakfast, and a bicycle ride.

The seventh annual Pink Ribbon Gala, held July 20 at Indigo Sky Casino, raised over $110,000 to support the Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks. The event featured auctions, entertainment, and honored Eastern Shawnee Tribe Chief Glenna Wallace for her contributions.