Cover Story

Old Cedar Mill Gallery, located northeast of Neosho, Missouri, is a welcoming arts destination offering creative classes, handmade goods by local artisans, and a rich sense of history. Run by Easter and Ryan Chapman, the gallery features a rustic shop, community events, and historical storytelling, making it a unique spot for visitors of all ages to enjoy crafts, local heritage, and seasonal festivities.

Chase the Chill, now in its 10th year, is a volunteer-driven project that distributes handmade scarves, gloves, and hats—no questions asked—to those in need across Southwest Missouri. Led by Jessica Tupper Moss and supported by over 600 volunteers, the initiative partners with local businesses and celebrates community generosity, expanding this year to include pet sweaters and a special anniversary event with its founder.

OurVeteransFirst, founded by Michelle Lee in 2019, is a Joplin-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting at-risk and homeless veterans with financial aid, essential supplies, and personalized assistance—especially for those not served by the VA. The organization’s programs include emergency aid, a Backpack Program, and plans for a Veterans Village offering housing and holistic support. Through community partnerships and a new ADA-compliant office, OurVeteransFirst continues to restore hope and stability for local veterans, inviting volunteers and donors to join their mission.

Since 1996, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States has provided comfort and support to families with hospitalized children through its House and Family Room programs in Joplin. Serving nearly 200 families in 2023, RMHC offers lodging, meals, and essential services, relying on its annual Gift of Light, Gift of Love campaign—highlighted by a festive tree lighting event—to fund its mission and bring the community together in support of families in need.

Peterson Outdoors Ministries’ Heroes Hunting for Hope Fall Veterans Deer Hunt provides adaptive outdoor experiences for injured veterans, first responders, and those with disabilities, offering not just hunting but also faith-based support, camaraderie, and healing. Through specialized equipment, personal attention, and ongoing community, the event helps participants overcome challenges, build lasting bonds, and find renewed hope and strength.

Carthage senior Maggie Boyd is a standout in cross country and track, known for her mental toughness, leadership, and dedication to training. Praised by Coach Brian Crigger for her work ethic and ability to inspire teammates, Maggie credits her competitive spirit and perseverance for her success in distance events, and looks forward to new challenges beyond high school.

Cheryl Church has transformed her retirement into a mission by founding artCentral in Carthage, Missouri, an after-school art program that provides a safe, creative space for kids to express themselves. Supported by the community, artCentral offers age-appropriate projects, outreach to local schools, and scholarships, quickly becoming a vibrant hub for young artists and filling a vital need for non-sports activities in the area.

G3 Entertainment in Carthage, Missouri, is a family-focused entertainment center created by Tom and Cindy Garrison, offering arcade games, indoor play areas, mini golf, a ninja obstacle course, and a state-of-the-art bowling alley. With a full restaurant, party rooms, and affordable pricing, G3 provides a safe, fun environment designed to help families connect and create lasting memories together.

The 58th Annual Maple Leaf Festival in Carthage, Missouri, returns this October, uniting the community with parades, craft fairs, live music, and family activities amid the fall foliage. Supported by longtime sponsors Mercy Hospital Carthage and Southwest Missouri Bank, the festival celebrates local tradition, community spirit, and economic vitality, with this year’s theme honoring Carthage’s heritage as “America’s Maple Leaf City.”