Cover Story

Art and Vickie Boyt, founders of Urban Cottage by SolSource Greenbuild, specialize in building durable, energy-efficient small homes to provide affordable housing for those in need. Inspired by their work in sustainable home competitions and partnerships with organizations like Eden Village and Elevate Branson, the Boyts have helped create communities across Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma, proving that smaller homes can make a big impact.

Joplin, Missouri, celebrates 152 years of growth, resilience, and revitalization, with its downtown transformation sparked by the city’s 2005 move into the historic Newman Building. Efforts like tax abatements, streetscaping, and the Cornell Complex have attracted investors and reduced storefront vacancies from 75% to just 10-12%. Through partnerships with Downtown Joplin Alliance, the city continues to prioritize historic preservation and development to ensure downtown remains a vibrant destination.

Debra Smith won 1st place in the nature photo contest with her heartwarming shot of three bluebirds at a bird bath on her Joplin property, celebrating Missouri’s state bird. Susan James earned 2nd place for her image of a swallowtail caterpillar on fennel she grew in her Bois D’Arc garden, while Sheila O’Daniel took 3rd with a stunning photo of a hummingbird feeding on a pink flower in Carterville. Thirteen-year-old CAE Wood won the kids’ contest with a creative ground-up view of mushrooms, and Sheila’s hummingbird in sunflowers photo was voted Facebook Fan Favorite.

Kansas City University’s College of Dental Medicine in Joplin is addressing the nationwide dentist shortage by training students, especially from rural areas, to serve underserved communities. With hands-on experience through rotations, community programs, and affordable care at the Oral Health Center, the school emphasizes the connection between oral health and overall well-being while fostering a spirit of curiosity and service among its students.

After being diagnosed with Lupus, Sean Roye turned to running as a way to reclaim his health and faith, logging over 10,000 miles and completing marathons, ultramarathons, and a 100-mile race. For Roye, running is both a physical challenge and spiritual journey, helping him manage his condition, improve mental health, and connect with God through perseverance and determination.

Track 94 Brewery, founded by Jared and Sheila Whitehead in Seneca, Missouri, has become a community hub offering craft beer, diverse food options, and unique features like a cigar lounge and live events. Despite challenges, including relocating due to railroad disputes, the brewery has thrived with community support, expanding into a larger space and distributing its beer locally. With its welcoming atmosphere and innovative offerings, Track 94 is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of community.

Mountain biking, introduced to McDonald County schools through the National Interscholastic Cycling Association, has quickly grown in popularity, offering students of all backgrounds a chance to compete, build confidence, and develop lifelong fitness habits. Led by Coach Greg Capps and supported by local businesses, the program emphasizes both individual achievement and team spirit, helping students discover their potential on and off the trails.

The Jasper County Cemetery Preservation Society, led by volunteers like Rikki Smith, works to restore and protect nearly 130 historic cemeteries in Jasper County, Missouri, preserving local heritage and reuniting families with ancestral graves. Through hands-on restoration, community education, and partnerships, JCCPS ensures these sites remain respected landmarks and living links to the past.

River Blend Coffee in Pineville, Missouri, is a student-run coffee shop launched through a partnership between McDonald County High School and the local Chamber of Commerce, funded by a T-Mobile grant. The shop provides hands-on business and hospitality experience for students while serving as a vibrant community hub, strengthening local ties and inspiring future careers. Its success highlights the power of collaboration, with students, teachers, and community leaders working together to create lasting educational and economic impact.